never grow up, criminal minds

020. new kid

Clara sniffles as she tries to fall back asleep after her bank nightmare. She tightly hugs her stuffed octopus, even grabbing the stuffed dog and stuffed penguin she has.

After a few more minutes of not being able to go back to sleep, she grabs the three stuffed animals and gets up. Clara opens the door, gulping at the dark hallway.

Knowing her dad's room is the room closest to her, she takes a deep breath before bolting to the door, hurriedly opening it and rushing in.

The slam of the door shutting wakes Spencer up, fully alert, prepared to fight off any danger. He relaxes, though, when he finds his daughter running over and jumping onto the bed.

"Hey, honey." He quietly greets. "Are you okay? What's going on?"

"I had a bad dream." Clara sniffles. "About the bank."

Spencer's heart clenches, a small sigh leaving through his nose.

"C'mere, baby." He pulls her closer. He helps her get tucked in and pulls her into his chest. "It was just a bad dream. They're gone and you're safe now. They can't get you anymore."

"It doesn't help the dreams go away." Clara says.

"I know." Spencer winces. "I'm sorry. I wish I could keep all the bad dreams out of your head. I'm not letting anything happen to you, though. You're as safe as can be. I promise."

Clara snuggles into his chest more, Spencer's grip around her tightening.

+++

"I don't wanna meet her." Clara whines, stomping her foot in the elevator.

"Don't do that." Spencer chides in a panicked tone. He takes a deep breath, collecting himself. "She's really nice, honey."

"I want Emmy back." Clara pouts.

"I know." Spencer sighs. "Clary, we all miss Emily. But Blake isn't replacing her. Yes, she's a new member of the team, but that doesn't mean any of us are forgetting about Emily or anything. We all still love her and you're still able to talk to her. Blake will just be a new friend."

Clara huffs.

"Fine." She grumbles, crossing her arms over her chest.

The elevator dings, the doors sliding open. The two walk out, but Spencer stops her before they get to the bullpen.

"Hey." He quietly calls, pulling her back by her arm. His other hand goes up and gently cups her cheek, Spencer bending over to be her level. "Be nice." He orders, holding his rare, stern parental look in his eyes.

"I will." Clara assures. Spencer nods, kissing her forehead before standing up, letting go of her face. "I don't have to like her, though." Spencer sighs, quickly following the girl into the bullpen.

"Blake, hey." Spencer greets, her being the only one in the bullpen.

"Morning." Blake politely smiles.

"Uh... th-this is my daughter, Clara. Her sitter is picking her up later." Spencer says.

"It's nice to meet you, Clara." Blake gives her a small smile.

"You, too." Clara smiles at her.

+++

Clara is at school and they're currently at recess. She, Isabelle, and Erin are on the swings. Clara looks around, noticing the new kid playing by himself. She frowns, feeling a little bad for him, but also considering he may like to be alone.

Clara stops when two boys run over and rip the new kid's hat right off his head.

"Hey!" The boy complains while the two boys laugh. "Give me it back, please."