Criminal Minds One-Shots

Strength and Perception

Summary: Dr. Spencer Reid's relationship with Y/N, a formidable MMA fighter and women's grappling champion, takes an unexpected turn when she visits him at the BAU with noticeable injuries. When the team sees her with a cut across her forehead and a black eye, their initial concern about Spencer's involvement is quickly dispelled by Morgan, who recognizes Y/N and lightens the mood with his characteristic humor.

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The BAU bullpen buzzed with its usual activity, team members working diligently on the latest case. Spencer Reid was engrossed in reviewing case files when he received a text message from Y/N. She was on her way to visit him at the office, and despite her injuries, she seemed excited.

When the elevator doors opened, Y/N stepped out, her usual vibrant energy somewhat muted by the visible signs of her latest MMA match—a fresh cut across her forehead and a black eye. She wore her confidence like armor, though the injuries were clearly a testament to the intensity of her sport.

As she made her way towards Spencer's desk, she noticed a few curious glances from the team. They had heard a lot about Spencer's enigmatic girlfriend, but this was the first time they were seeing her in person.

"Hey, Spence," Y/N greeted, managing a warm smile despite the visible pain. "I thought I'd surprise you." Spencer's eyes widened as he saw her, immediately rising from his seat with concern. "Y/N! What happened? Are you okay?"

Before she could respond, Morgan's keen observational skills kicked in. He had been watching from his desk and noticed the tension in the room. His eyes lit up with recognition.

"Wait a minute," Morgan said, a grin spreading across his face. "I know you! You're Y/N, the grappling champion! I've seen you fight. There's no way pretty boy here could ever lay a hand on you unless you let him." 

The realization hit the rest of the team. They had been momentarily concerned, but Morgan's humor quickly eased the tension. JJ and Prentiss exchanged relieved glances, and Garcia, who had been browsing the internet, looked up with a mix of amusement and curiosity.

"Seriously, you should see the other guy," Y/N said with a chuckle, giving Morgan a playful wink. "I'm used to this kind of thing. It's part of the sport."

Spencer looked between Y/N and his team, his concern shifting to a mixture of embarrassment and relief. "I'm glad everyone's okay now. But seriously, Y/N, are you sure you're alright?"

Y/N waved off his worry with a grin. "I'm fine, Spence. Just a little banged up from a tough match. It's nothing I can't handle."

The team, now more relaxed, gathered around Y/N to chat. The initial shock wore off, and their curiosity about her life and career took over.

"So, how did you get into MMA?" Prentiss asked, genuinely interested.

Y/N settled into a chair, her demeanor warm despite her injuries. "I started training in high school. It was a way to channel my energy and frustrations. I fell in love with it and decided to pursue it professionally. It's been an incredible journey."

Garcia, always intrigued by unique stories, leaned in eagerly. "And what's it like to be a grappling champion? You must have some amazing stories."

Y/N laughed, the sound light and cheerful despite her injuries. "Oh, there are definitely some wild stories. But the best part is the camaraderie with my teammates and the thrill of competition."

Morgan, still grinning, nudged Reid playfully. "See, pretty boy? I told you she could handle herself. There's no way you'd ever have to worry about her."

Reid, still slightly embarrassed but now more relaxed, nodded. "I appreciate that. It's nice to know that you all understand. And thank you for making her feel welcome."

Later that day, as the team returned to their work, Spencer and Y/N took a moment to talk privately in his office. The door was closed, and the room was filled with a comfortable silence.

"I'm sorry for the initial reaction," Y/N said softly, her eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and vulnerability. "I didn't mean to cause any concern. I just wanted to spend some time with you."

Spencer reached out and gently touched her arm. "It's okay. I was just worried about you. I hate seeing you get hurt, even though I know it's part of your job."

Y/N smiled, her expression tender. "I appreciate your concern, Spence. It means a lot to me. But remember, I'm tough and I'm used to it. It's just part of what I do."

Spencer sighed, his expression softening. "I know. I just care about you. I want you to be safe and happy."

Y/N leaned in and kissed him gently on the cheek. "And I care about you too. That's why I wanted to introduce you to my world, even if it comes with a few bumps and bruises."

As time went on, Y/N's visits to the BAU became a regular occurrence. The team grew accustomed to her presence and admired her resilience and strength. Her injuries became a familiar sight, but so did her infectious spirit and the deep affection she and Spencer shared.

One afternoon, as they were all working on a new case, Y/N stopped by the office with a bouquet of flowers for Spencer. Her injuries had healed, but she was still as vibrant and energetic as ever.

"Just a little something to brighten your day," she said, handing the flowers to Spencer with a smile.

Spencer took the bouquet, his eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Y/N. They're beautiful. And thank you for always being so understanding and supportive."

Morgan, who had been observing from a distance, couldn't help but tease. "Looks like pretty boy's got it made. You've got a great lady there, Reid."

The team chuckled, and Spencer's cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and affection. "I certainly do."

As the day continued, the team reflected on the unique bond between Spencer and Y/N. Their relationship, marked by mutual respect and love, was a reminder that strength and vulnerability could coexist in beautiful harmony.

In the end, the BAU team came to appreciate Y/N not just for her impressive achievements in the ring but for the way she complemented and supported Spencer. Their story was a testament to the power of love and the importance of understanding each other's worlds, no matter how different they might be.