Multifandom One-shots

157. Outside the Comfort Zone - Spencer x female reader (Criminal Minds)

"Come on, Pretty Boy, it's just one night at the bar." Morgan bumps his shoulder against the smaller guy, trying to pull Spencer away from his book.

Glancing up, Spencer looked puzzled. "Morgan, you know I don't do well in social settings. And bars aren't exactly my scene..."

With a knowing smile, Morgan rolled his eyes. "That's the point! You've been working non-stop. You need to unwind. Trust me, a few hours out will do you good."

Fidgeting with the book's edge, Spencer traced the spine as he considered Morgan's words. "I appreciate the offer, but I'd rather spend the evening reading. Plus, statistically speaking, bars are one of the least ideal places for social interaction—what with the noise level and potential for intoxication-induced behaviors."

"Come on, genius. You can't just live in your books. You're missing out on life!" Morgan chuckled, clearly entertained.

Spencer's lips twitched, the hint of a smile threatening to break his serious demeanor. "I don't know, Morgan... I was planning on going home and finishing this new study on the neurological effects of—"

Morgan cut him off, grinning. "Yeah, yeah, I'm sure it's fascinating. But seriously, Spence, live a little. Who knows, you might even meet someone interesting." His tone shifted slightly, genuine curiosity lacing his words as he leaned back, arms folded, a challenging glint in his eyes.

Sighing, Spencer raised an eyebrow, skepticism written across his face. "Interesting, like a sociological subject, or interesting, like someone you think I should date?" The idea of romance evoked a slight sense of unease within him; the realm of dating differed significantly from his familiar statistical analysis of human behavior.

"Both, maybe. But mostly someone to get you out of that comfort zone of yours." He leaned closer, arms crossed. "Besides, you wouldn't let me go to a bar alone, would you? What if I need backup?" Morgan's grin widened, crinkles forming around his eyes.

Knowing he was losing the argument, Spencer sighed. "You don't need backup. You're Derek Morgan."

Morgan chuckled, clearly enjoying Spencer's attempt to wriggle out of the situation. "True," he agreed, flashing his trademark grin, "but I'm not above using a little emotional manipulation to get my friend to have some fun. So what do you say, genius? You in?" The challenge in his voice was unmistakable, and Spencer could see the eagerness shining in his friend's eyes.

After a moment's hesitation, Spencer gave a small nod. "Alright, fine. But I'm not drinking anything that would impair my cognitive functions."

Morgan laughed, clapping him on the back. "Deal. I'll even let you order a club soda with a twist of lime. Now, let's go before you change your mind."

As Spencer grabbed his jacket and stood, a reluctant smile crossed his face. "I still think this is a bad idea, but... I trust you, Morgan."

"That's all I ask, Pretty Boy. That's all I ask."

🌟

The bar was lively, filled with people chatting, laughing, and enjoying the upbeat music playing from the jukebox. Spencer and Morgan stepped inside, and Spencer immediately felt the energy buzzing around him. It wasn't his usual environment, but he took a deep breath and tried to remind himself to stay open-minded.

Morgan leaned in, his voice barely audible over the noise. "See? It's not so bad, right?"

Adjusting his glasses, Spencer's posture remained stiff. "I suppose it's... lively."

Morgan laughed and led him to the bar. "Two beers," he said to the bartender, then glanced at Spencer, who was already looking a little lost. "Or, uh, one beer and one water," he corrected with a grin.