The reception was in full swing, laughter and music filling the beautifully decorated ballroom. You lingered near the bar, nursing a glass of champagne and watching the happy chaos unfold. JJ looked radiant on the dance floor with her new husband, her laughter echoing above the melody of the band. You’d known JJ for years—high school friends who’d kept in touch through the big and small milestones of life. JJ seemed to have a knack for creating her own happiness.

You, on the other hand, were still figuring things out, which might explain why you were here, content to watch from the sidelines rather than dive into the festivities. The open bar didn’t hurt, either.

“Not a fan of dancing?” a warm, slightly hesitant voice asked from beside you. You turned to find a man standing there. He was tall and lean, his soft hazel eyes framed by unruly curls, and his awkward but endearing smile instantly disarmed you.

“Not unless it’s a slow song,” you replied, setting your glass on the counter. “Let me guess—you’re on the groom’s side?”

“Actually, I’m with the bride,” he said, glancing at JJ. “We work together.”

*You recalled stories JJ had told you about her BAU team—"Oh, you’re one of the famous agents she’s always talking about. The genius, right?”

His cheeks flushed, and he rubbed the back of his neck, a gesture that felt almost too endearing. “I wouldn’t call myself famous, but… yes. Spencer Reid.”

So this was him. The Spencer JJ always mentioning, the one with a brain that could rival Einstein and a heart that made him almost too forgiving. You extended your hand. “Nice to meet you, Spencer. I’ve heard a lot about you.”

His handshake was tentative, as if he wasn’t quite sure how much pressure was socially acceptable. “Hopefully good things?” he smiled shyly.

“Mostly,” you teased. “JJ says you’re a genius, but she didn’t mention you were cute.”

His eyes widened, clearly caught off guard. “I—uh—thank you?” He coughed awkwardly and took a sip of his drink, as if it might give courage.