"When I was younger, I used to watch those cop shows on tv and imagine I was one of them. Catching the bad guys, saving the day." Lauren laughed. "So much for that dream."

"You could still do it."

"Oh yeah, I bet the FBI will just toss open the doors and welcome a single mom with an English lit degree." Lauren's laugh because a groan. "I really wish he'd take a nap."

"Not everyone that works at the Bureau is an agent. We have lots of people that aren't that help us with cases. Lab techs and researchers, stuff like that." Reid looked at his watch. They were getting close to the next deadline. Too close. "We have this one woman, Garcia. She's our computer guru. A hacker, but in the traditional meaning. Well sometimes the illegal one as well, but only when she has to. She's really smart, and I know smart"

"Aw, Reid. I'm touched." A voice came over the intercom. "I didn't know you cared."

Reid grinned. "What took you so long?"

"Peaches, what I want to know is how you keep ending up in the middle of these things?"

"The train doesn't count. I volunteered."

He could hear Garcia laughing. "Who's the blonde? And please tell me you just met."

"You have video too."

"You doubt my skills."

"Not at all, Garcia."

Lauren took a deep sigh. "The blonde is Lauren and she'll be your new best friend if you are smart enough to get us out of here."

"Working on it, Hot Stuff. I promise."

"Reid." A man's voice cut in. "Can you hear me?"

"Loud and clear, Hotch."

"I hate to mention this"

"The next deadline. I know."

"What are you doing about this?" The older man spat out.

"Our technicians are working on the elevator controls but the unsub has completely rewritten the system."

"A computer expert."

"Or has access to one. We are gathering the money but he's placed very strict demands, small bills, non-sequential. It's going to take time."

Reid looked around the small space. He wasn't exactly happy being there and he was at least mildly prepared for such situations. He couldn't begin to imagine how his three companions were feeling.

"We'd better get ready." Reid said quietly. He helped Lauren sit back down.

"How long?"

"About 30 seconds." Reid looked at his watch. "Close your eyes and try not to think about it."

"Reid, what if . . ."

He knew what she was thinking.

"He wants something and he needs us if he's going to get it. We're safe"

"For now."

Reid nodded. He took a deep breath. Knowing what was about to happen did nothing to quash the panic churning in his stomach.