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A/n this takes place after Ashes and Dust. I have moved up the timeframe of when Reid first attends the BCC and meets John. Some of the dialogs are taken from "Elephant's Memory but slightly altered. I give thanks and credit for it to the writers of Criminal Minds. I have also changed the duration of the meeting and how long Spencer participated therein.

The First Step

Spencer's first meeting with the BCC wasn't what he expected. The attendees were all law enforcement, but they were so accepting and open, he felt – floored.

"Hello, my name is Spencer. I'm a – um, I'm not sure what I am. I was forcibly addicted to opiates, but I suppose I'm lucky. I haven't taken a dosage in 62 days."

The group had applauded this revelation, giving Spencer the courage to tell his story to them. Afterward, he was sipping coffee when a familiar face approached.

"Spencer."

"Sir," Spencer squeaked in utter surprise and felt his heart begin to slam in his chest.

"You know who I am?"

"Yes, sir."

"There's no sir here. I'm John."

"Ah, yes, sir, I mean, John. I didn't expect –"

"This isn't something you talk about at the office, especially our office."

Spencer's phone vibrated, and he saw JJ's number. He knew she wouldn't bother him unless it were necessary.

"Looks like you need to go."

"Um, yes. I think we have a case."

"Here, take this. It's my one-year medallion. It took me six years to get it. I haven't left the house without it in sixteen years. It helps me forget what I can lose if I'm not careful."

'I only have two months."

"Yes."

"It's your most prized possession."

"No. Give it back to me when you get your year."

John walked away without another word, and Spencer hurried out to his car and the next case.

CMCMCMCMCM

"I'm sorry work pulled you away from your meeting," JJ said as they lounged on her sofa.

"It's okay. I can go back any time."

JJ snuggled up to Spencer and sighed when he lightly stroked her hair. "I am so proud of you."

"Thank you." Spencer kissed the top of her head.

"So, do you think you're ready for tonight's activity?"

Spencer grinned at her. "Well, it has been a couple of months. I think you've been more than patient with me."

"True, but I think it'll all come back to you."

Spencer smirked as he climbed to his feet. "Then, after you."

JJ led him to the kitchen table, where Spencer pulled a pack of cards from his bag. "Five card stud or Texas Hold Em?"

CMCMCMCMCMCMCM

Spencer sat at his desk and tried to think of what to say in his letter. He'd written to his mom, but he wanted to tell JJ what she'd meant to him over the last two and a half months.

My beautiful,

I wanted to tell you how much your support in these last months has meant to me. You've been kind, understanding, and most of all, you haven't let me wallow in self-pity.

I can't imagine what my life would be like, right now without your love and support.

I want you to know that I understand just how lucky I am that you love and accept me for the man I am.

Thank you for loving me. Thank you for forgiving me when I tried to push you away. Thank you for your faithful support of me.

I love you, always,

Spencer.

Spencer put aside the letter and yawned. The desire for Dilaudid continued to sing in his blood, but it was easier with every passing day to remember why he kept his cravings at bay.