Undercover Desires: Minds at Odds

Chapter Four: Unexpected Encounters

In the bustling bullpen of the BAU, Penelope Garcia's voice rang out over the hum of activity. She stood surrounded by Emily Prentiss, Jennifer Jareau, and Derek Morgan, her animated expressions reflecting her concerns about their new team member.

"I just don't get it! How can we have a new team member, and I know nothing about them? We're letting a stranger into our inner circle. I couldn't find anything personal, just stellar academy records, top ranks, and all those awards at Interpol and the FBI. Also, there is no photo. How do we know we can trust them? I mean, I don't even know what he or she looks like."

Emily smiled, slightly amused. "Relax, Penelope. I'm sure we'll get to know them soon enough."

Jennifer nodded in agreement. "I bet they'll fit right in with us. Besides, it's not the first time we've had a new member."

Derek leaned back in his chair, smirking. "Garcia, not everyone lives their life online for you to hack into."

Garcia waved her hand dismissively. "It's not hacking, Derek. It's investigating. And I-"

Her rant was cut short as Spencer walked up to the group, clearing his throat. "Everyone, this is our new profiler, Alexander Steele."

Penelope spun around, her eyes wide with embarrassment, curiosity, and suspicion. "Oh my goodness! You're the new profiler!" she exclaimed, almost bouncing on her toes but still cautious.

Penelope's face turned crimson as she realized she had been caught voicing her worries in front of the person she was concerned about. Her eyes darted nervously between Alexander and her teammates, embarrassment washing over her. "I-I didn't mean to sound paranoid," Penelope stammered, avoiding Alexander's gaze. "It's just... we're a close-knit team and... well, you know."

Alexander chuckled softly, trying to ease the tension. "I understand, Penelope. It's good to be cautious."

Penelope's shoulders relaxed a bit, grateful for Alexander's understanding. "Thanks. And really, welcome to the team."

Alexander smiled warmly. "Nice to meet you, Penelope."

Emily extended her hand. "Welcome to the team. I'm Emily Prentiss."

Alexander shook her hand. "Thank you, Emily. It's a pleasure to meet you."

JJ stepped forward next. "Jennifer Jareau, call me JJ. Welcome aboard."

"Thanks, JJ," Alexander replied, shaking her hand.

Derek was next, offering a charming grin. "Derek Morgan. Good to have you with us." He held her hand a bit longer, his gaze lingering. "Or should I say, Alex?"

Alexander smirked, her eyes meeting his. "Alexander is fine, Derek. Nice to meet you."

Before more could be said, Aaron Hotchner and David Rossi approached the group. Hotchner's presence immediately commanded attention.

"Team, we need to meet in the conference room now," Hotchner announced, his tone urgent.

As the group began to move, Hotchner finally noticed Alexander. A flicker of recognition crossed his face, and for a moment, time seemed to slow. Their eyes locked, an unspoken history passing between them. He masked his surprise quickly, maintaining a professional demeanor. "Welcome, Alexander Steele. I was waiting for you to join us. We'll catch up properly later," he said briskly.

Alexander nodded, mirroring his professionalism. "Thank you, Agent Hotchner."

Rossi gave a slight nod. "David Rossi. Welcome to the team."

"Thank you, Rossi," Alexander replied.

As they all turned to head to the conference room, a palpable awkwardness hung in the air. Penelope glanced between Alexander and Hotchner, eyebrows raised in curiosity. Ever perceptive, Derek noticed the tension and shot Alexander a questioning look, but she offered a tight smile in return.

The team gathered their things and followed Hotchner to the conference room. Alexander placed her box on an empty desk, taking a deep breath before joining them. As the team settled in the conference room, they found themselves in a mix of anticipation and curiosity as they awaited Hotchner's briefing. The atmosphere was charged with the presence of the new team member, Alexander Steele.

Hotchner steepled his fingers as he addressed the team. "We have a new case, and it's a challenging one. Our unsub has been operating under the radar for quite some time. We need to act fast and efficiently."

The team nodded in unison, their focus unwavering.

Alexander was keenly observant, taking in the dynamics and personalities of her new colleagues. As the briefing continued, the team delved into the case details, moving swiftly to form a plan of action. Alexander absorbed the information like a sponge, and her analytical mind was already processing various angles and potential leads.

Throughout the meeting, Aaron Hotchner's gaze lingered on Alexander occasionally. She felt his stare, a palpable intensity in the room, but she chose to ignore it, maintaining her professional demeanor and focus on the task at hand. This subtle exchange did not go unnoticed by the more perceptive members of the team, adding another layer of complexity to the already tense atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Penelope's curiosity brimmed as she stole glances at Alexander, her mind racing with questions and scenarios.

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Hey there! It's been a while since my last update.

I was dealing with some really heavy personal stuff, but I'm committed to providing more regular updates from now on.

I'd love to hear your comments and suggestions.

How do you feel about Harper/Alexander's interactions with the team?

Despite some past issues between her and Aaron, he will respect her choice to go by Alexander for now.

I want the tension to slowly build and then reach a breaking point. Can't wait to hear your thoughts on this!

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