The Ballad of the Genius

09

"...everything has a past. Everything – a person, an object, a word, everything. If you don't know the past, you can't understand the present and plan properly for the future."

Chaim Potok

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Plan

"Ellie just sent me their location; they're about ten minutes out," Spencer said, looking up from his phone at Derek. The tension in his voice was palpable, reflecting the gravity of the situation.

Derek pushed himself off the table he'd been leaning against, his brow furrowed in concentration. "Okay, so what's our game plan?" he asked, his tactical mind already working through scenarios. "Whoever is watching them knows the FBI is involved. The more they're seen with us, the more the stalker knows we're trying to solve this case. We need to be smart about this."

Spencer nodded thoughtfully, his brilliant mind racing. "Based on our profile, there are typically two types of stalkers: those who have a fantasy of being with their target and those who want to be them. Given the note's content – 'I'm trying to help you' – I doubt it's the latter. It's most likely that this person has a romantic obsession with Olivia, living out a fantasy of a relationship with her."

Derek rubbed his chin, a plan forming. "The best way to draw them out is by making them believe she's romantically involved with someone else. That would provoke them to act." A spark of inspiration lit up his eyes. "Come on, genius. I've got an idea."

As Derek started walking towards the door, Spencer followed, confusion etched on his face. Derek turned, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "Okay, Spencer, here's the deal: you're going to be dating a singer."

"Wait... what?" Spencer stopped in his tracks, eyes wide with disbelief.

Derek's grin widened. "You said it yourself: the stalker is living out a romantic fantasy with Olivia. We have to make them believe she's with someone else. You're the perfect candidate!"

"But Derek, I—" Spencer began to protest, a wave of anxiety washing over him.

Derek held up a hand, his expression turning serious. "Look, you're the best choice. You're young, intelligent, and she already trusts you. It's believable, and more importantly, it's going to drive the stalker out of hiding."

Spencer took a deep breath, adjusting his glasses nervously. "Okay, but how do we make it convincing? I'm not exactly known for my smooth social skills."

Derek leaned in, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "Whoever it is, they've got eyes everywhere. When they arrive, pull her into a hug and tell her to go along with it. Make it seem like you've been waiting for her to have lunch here. Act like you have some kind of relationship with her. Just be natural – well, as natural as you can be, Pretty Boy."

"I don't think this is a good idea—" Spencer began, his voice tinged with doubt.

"Reid," Derek interrupted, his tone firm but encouraging. "Who did Gideon give the phone to?"

"Me, but—"

"Exactly. You," Derek emphasized. "Gideon gave the phone to you because he knew you would do whatever it takes to protect her. He trusted you with this. So now, I need you to trust yourself. Okay?"

Spencer's resolve strengthened at Derek's words. He nodded, determination settling into his features. "Alright. I'll do it."

Minutes later, when the door opened and Olivia walked in, Spencer moved forward with a confidence he didn't entirely feel. He wrapped his arms around her in a warm, convincing hug, surprising both of them with the naturalness of the gesture.

"Hey, Olivia," Spencer said, his voice gentle yet firm. He whispered in her ear, "Go along with it. I'll explain later."

Olivia's body tensed for a brief moment before she relaxed into the embrace, playing her part perfectly. "Spencer," she breathed, relief evident in her voice. "It's so good to see you."

Derek watched the scene unfold, giving a subtle nod of approval. "Alright, lovebirds, let's head inside. We've got a lot to discuss."

As they turned to leave, Ellie, who had been observing the interaction with a mix of confusion and amusement, grabbed onto Derek's wrist. "Hey now, do I not get the same warm welcome?" she quipped, her attempt at lightness barely masking her underlying anxiety.

Derek smirked, winking at her. "You wish, honey. Come on, let's get you both somewhere safe and then we can talk."

As they walked into the BAU, Olivia gently grabbed Spencer's wrist, her touch hesitant but urgent. "What was that about?" she whispered, her eyes searching his face for answers.

Spencer glanced from Derek to the two women, his expression a mix of determination and apprehension. "We have a lot to discuss. Come on, let's find somewhere more private."

Once they were securely in the conference room, Spencer stepped forward, clearing his throat. His voice was steady, but there was an undercurrent of nervousness as he spoke. "Olivia, we believe the best way to draw out your stalker is to make them believe you're in a relationship with someone else."

Ellie leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with a mix of curiosity and concern. "And you want her to pretend to date someone? Who did you have in mind?"

Spencer met Olivia's gaze, his hazel eyes serious. "Me."

Olivia's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of panic crossing her face. Her mind raced with objections. Not only did she barely know Spencer, but she also had a history of falling in love quickly. She knew this situation had the potential to become emotionally complicated for her.

Ellie grinned, clearly finding some amusement in the unfolding drama despite the serious situation. "This is going to be interesting to watch unfold."

"Ellie!" Olivia admonished, shooting her friend a look that was equal parts exasperation and plea for support.

Turning back to the agents, Olivia voiced her concerns. "Look, is this actually a good idea? No offense to you, Spencer," she said, meeting his gaze apologetically, "but we don't know each other. This seems rushed and potentially risky."

Spencer nodded, understanding her hesitation. Then, his expression shifted, becoming more intense. "Okay, so let's get to know each other. Who is Ember Blackwell?"