Criminal Minds One-Shots

Growing Up Together

Y/N sat on the edge of her bed, a blend of excitement and nerves swirling in her stomach. Cheerleading tryouts were tomorrow, and she couldn't shake the feeling of impending pressure. She took a deep breath, glancing at the photo of her and her mom, JJ, on the nightstand. They were both laughing, the sun setting behind them, capturing a moment of pure joy.

"Mom! Can you come help me with my cheer routine?" Y/N called, her voice laced with a mix of hope and apprehension.

JJ poked her head in, her blonde hair cascading over her shoulders. "You've got this, Y/N. But sure, I can help!" Her smile radiated warmth, just like it always did. They had always been more like friends, navigating life side by side.

As they worked through the routine, JJ offered pointers, her enthusiasm contagious. "You're a natural! Just remember to project your confidence," she encouraged, her eyes sparkling with pride.

After the practice, Y/N flopped down on her bed, exhaustion creeping in. "I really want this, Mom," she confessed, her voice softening. "But what if I don't make it?"

In that moment, JJ transformed from the fun-loving friend to the nurturing mother. "It's okay to feel scared. Remember, no matter what happens, I'm proud of you. You've always pushed through." She sat beside Y/N, wrapping an arm around her shoulders.

"Thanks, Mom." Y/N leaned into her, feeling reassured. It was moments like this that reminded her of their unique bond.

The next day, as Y/N walked into the gym for tryouts, nerves twisted in her stomach. She spotted her mom in the audience, and the sight of JJ's supportive smile steadied her heart. With each cheer and tumble, she could feel her mom's encouragement resonating within her.

Later, after tryouts, they sat on the couch together, a bowl of popcorn between them. Y/N's phone buzzed, and she glanced down, her heart racing when she saw the message: she made the team! "Mom, I did it!"

JJ jumped up, a squeal escaping her lips. "I knew you would! Let's celebrate!" They danced around the living room, caught up in a whirlwind of laughter and excitement.

As they settled down, Y/N sighed contentedly. "You know, I'm really glad we grew up together. You're my best friend, JJ."

JJ smiled, her heart swelling with love. "And you're mine, kiddo. I wouldn't trade this for anything." In that moment, they were just two friends enjoying life, with a bond deeper than any title could define.

-----

The day had finally come for Y/N to meet JJ's team at the BAU. As they drove through the familiar streets of Quantico, Y/N felt a mix of excitement and nerves. "What if they don't like me?" she asked, glancing sideways at her mom.

JJ chuckled, giving her a reassuring smile. "Trust me, they'll love you. They're a great group. Just be yourself."

When they arrived, the buzz of the office felt electric. Y/N stepped inside, taking in the walls lined with case files and the energetic atmosphere. As they walked toward the main area, she spotted familiar faces—Morgan, Reid, and Garcia were all gathered, engaged in lively conversation.

"Hey, JJ!" Morgan called out, his grin wide as he spotted her. "You finally bringing your daughter around?"

JJ beamed. "This is Y/N. She's my best friend."

"Nice to meet you!" Y/N waved, feeling a sense of warmth from the team.

As they settled into the conversation, JJ and Y/N shared stories, laughter echoing around the room. The team was welcoming, asking Y/N about school and her cheerleading tryouts.

In the midst of the chatter, Y/N suddenly said, "So, JJ, did you ever think about how much fun it is to be a profiler?"

The room went silent. Morgan exchanged glances with Reid, both clearly taken aback. They had expected her to call JJ "Mom," not her first name. A few seconds passed before they opened their mouths to correct her, but JJ raised her hand to stop them.

"It's okay," she said firmly but kindly. "I prefer Y/N calls me whatever she's comfortable with. If that's JJ, then that's JJ. It's just a name."

The team looked at each other, surprised but understanding. They could see the bond between mother and daughter was special, transcending typical parent-child dynamics.

Y/N smiled, feeling a wave of relief. "Exactly! JJ is my best friend, and I love how we can talk about everything."

"Fair enough!" Morgan said, breaking into a grin. "But just know, we might still call you 'JJ's kid' around here."

"Deal!" Y/N laughed, feeling more at ease.

As the day went on, Y/N felt welcomed and accepted. She found herself enjoying the playful banter among the team, laughing as they shared inside jokes. JJ watched proudly, seeing her daughter connect with the people she cared about.

Later, as they were leaving, Y/N turned to JJ. "Thanks for letting me call you what I want. It feels... right."

JJ smiled, her heart full. "Always. Our relationship is special, and I wouldn't have it any other way."

As they drove home, Y/N glanced at her mom. "Do you think they'll ever get used to me calling you JJ?"

"Maybe," JJ said, laughter in her voice. "Or maybe they'll just get used to you being you. And that's all that matters."