The New Reid by ajoytowrite

I do not own Criminal Minds

A/N: Hello all! Good to be back. This is a brief story about my favorite character once again, Dr. Spencer Reid. Reid has become distant and has found a way to channel his anger at the world. Thanks for reading and like always please feel free to R&R.

Chapter 1

Morgan glanced at the clock for the tenth time in the last 5 minutes, willing it to move faster toward their 5 o'clock dismissal time. It was Friday afternoon after a quiet week in the BAU. Strauss had grounded the team until they finish all back paperwork. This included documentation of some of their not so legal activity surrounding Prentiss' return. Morgan looked over at Prentiss and couldn't help the smile that cracked the edge of his lips. It was so good to have their family back together. He couldn't even be mad. His eyes continued across to Reid's desk and the smile fell a bit. Doesn't mean that Reid can't be mad. In fact, the young agent had hardly said a word all week, far different from his usual chatter. Thinking back, Morgan realized the Reid had grown quieter since Emily had 'died' and he had basically shut down to the rest of the team since her miraculous return. He just needs some time. He will come around, Morgan thought.

Reid suddenly stood, stretching his long legs. He retrieved his bag from beside his desk and began putting his things away.

"Bailing on us Reid?" Morgan asked in good spirits.

Reid didn't even glance up, "I'm finished with everything…I'm going home." And with that the bag was over his shoulder and he was heading toward the elevator.

"Hey Reid?" Morgan stood from his desk, pleased when Reid actually stopped and turned around, "We're going out to eat tonight. Don't you want to join us?" Morgan knew Reid already knew, he had been in the room when they discussed it.

Turning back toward the elevator he replied briefly, "Sorry, I have plans." And when a quick chime of the elevator, he was gone.

Morgan couldn't hide the disappointment on his face as he returned to his seat. His family was back together, but it seemed like they were more distant than before. He didn't like to fight with any of the people he felt were his closest friends.

As if reading his mind JJ, who had just entered the bullpen, said, "It's not you he's mad at Morgan. He's angry with Hotch, Emily, and I. Not you." Morgan could tell she was just as upset with Reid's distance.

"He will come around…He just needs some time." Morgan said, and then added jokingly, "So we should all enjoy the silence before the rambling returns." The smile he plastered on his face did not make it to his eyes.

Prentiss attempted to change the subject, "You guys doing anything fun this weekend?"

JJ beamed, "Will and I are taking Henry for his first soccer game tomorrow morning."

"That's great! What position does he play?"

"Well, he's three…so they all run around like crazy trying to pick up the ball," JJ laughed.

"It's important to have that covered," she smiled in return. "How about you, Morgan?" Garcia walked into the bullpen as well, her brightly colored bag over her shoulder.

Leaning back from his paperwork Morgan answered, "An old buddy of mine runs a martial arts studio near Georgetown and he invited me for a quick lesson."

Garcia replied, "Ooo…my chocolate god kicking butt like Bruce Lee? Be still my heart." The rest chuckled at her enthusiasm.

"Nothing like that Baby Girl. I'll probably get my butt kicked. I've never done any kind of martial arts training."

Prentiss cut in, "Yeah…if there isn't a door to kick in, he is completely helpless." They all laughed, including Morgan.

Once 5 PM rolled around, they were joined by Hotch and Rossi. The team minus Reid rolled out to hit their favorite local restaurant to celebrate the end of a boring, paper work filled week and Emily's official return.

Thank you again!