Catch-22| Spencer Reid

three

Grey's head snaps up as the door swings open once more. Gideon stands in the doorway, making eye contact with the woman. "They've gotten most of it together. You guys ready?"

All eyes land on her. "I think we are, right guys?" she replies, standing up and stretching.

Reid and Morgan agree in reassurance, although it didn't really matter that much if they were prepared.

They quickly leave the room, confronted by Sheriff Bell holding a bag. He hands it to Grey, saying, "Here's your murder victim costume. Happy early Halloween." She notices his attempt to lighten the blow, though it's not genuine.

Grey doesn't respond, snatching the bag and walking to the bathroom, looking for a private area to get dressed. Bell makes a sour expression, walking off.

On the other side of the room, Morgan holds a bothered stance, crossing his arms. He gives Gideon a slightly irate glance. "She's not too excited. You know that, right?"

"She knows what's right to do."

"Because you taught her," he retorts, "Maybe risking your life isn't the righ-"

"Morgan." Gideon speaks over him, snapping.

Derek sighs and shakes his head, walking away to talk to the local police.

Gideon watches him step away, then briefly looks at Reid. "I apologize."

Reid nervously nods and replies, "No, uh, it's fine. I was expecting that."

"Hm?"

"Well, there's two alpha males attempting to work together. That's practically set up for conflict." He explains it quickly, awaiting Jason's reaction.

Gideon blinks slowly. "Three, actually. You haven't met Hotchner."

Soon after, Grey steps out of the bathroom. She's covered with silver accessories, looking beyond clashy. She has no clue how Gideon thinks anyone, even a self absorbed murderer, would find this at all normal.

"This is so goddamn stupid," she says, putting her hands on her waist.

She then adds, "Language," in a mocking voice, saying it at the exact same time as Gideon. He shakes his head at her, paying minimal attention to the remark.

"You look nice, if that helps." Morgan tightly smiles.

"Mm. Can we get this going, then?"

"I sent you the address, Morgan and I will drive seperate. Take Reid." Gideon throws a set of keys to her.

She catches them easily, beckoning Reid to leave. "Let's go, pretty boy." As soon as Grey is out of the others' earshot, she adds, "I've got to go get targeted by a serial killer."

▪▪▪

Reid and Grey sit in the car, on the way to the specified street.

Reid tries to make conversation. "So, is this what it's like being the only female on the team?"

"Pretty much. I've only had to be in situations similar to this a few times, though," she replies, forcing a bit of laughter.

After a silent interval, she speaks again. "You haven't been issued a gun yet, have you?"

Reid tilts his head slightly and squints. "Uh, no."

Grey reaches into the left side of the car, retrieving a black handgun and giving it to Reid. He seems very nervous to hold it, checking the safety a few times. She looks over at him. "That's a glock 22. It's my extra. Reid, do you know how to function it?"