A Note From Ann

When I started "Shared Genius," I must have woken up the creative energy that I've ignored for a the past few years with everything going on in my life. When deciding on what I wanted to tackle, I felt that "Second Chances" is probably my most beloved story so it would be fitting to pick that back up.

What I didn't think about when I chose that project was just how much has happened to JJ and Reid since the end of season seven. Most notably being Maeve, Askari/Hastings, and another baby – not to mention team changes, including Strauss/Cruz. Add in the fact that I wrote "Snow Family" and set myself up for a sticky situation to work in another child….so, yeah, I took on a lot. But, that's okay, I was ready for a challenge.

What you are about to read is my version of these events. Some things will remain virtually the same and others will change drastically. Something I constantly tried to remind myself as I wrote this was that the JJ and Reid on the show are NOT the ones in this story. At least, not exactly. Remember, they both changed with events in "Second Chances" so how they handle things has to be a little different.

To get myself in that mindset of that version of the Reids, I reread that story. And, well, I noticed issues. A few typos, sure, but I think I also had some flaws as well. For example, JJ was working in her office when she's clearly in the bullpen now since rejoining the team. Also, I think Henry's age fluctuated in the story. Just as a reminder for myself and for you reading, he will be almost four at the beginning of this story (starts in May 2012 and his birthday is October 2008). My goal is to have some of these flaws reestablished/corrected in this story as we go.

I should point out, this will not be a case fic heavy story. Cases will appear, particularly ones that can't be ignored since they have a large impact. But, I won't be rewriting every single one. Of those that are mentioned, some will be redone with minor changes, others will change drastically – timelines and outcomes could be impacted. As points come up that seem worth re-working because they are either fun or relevant to the characters or overall story arcs and fit into this alternative timeline, I will, but this will be more about how our heroes handle things outside of the cases themselves. Think time on the plane, office moments, and home life.

Please keep me informed with how I'm doing with your lovely reviews. I am open to some suggestions on things, although admittedly, I've worked through a good chunk of season eight (namely Maeve) already before starting to post. But, things could potentially change if someone has really good insight. Something I'm no where near ready to write, but I know I will be at some point is karaoke at the Benjamin in season nine, so feel free to send my song suggestions for that six-song set Reid mentioned, ha!

With that all clarified, I truly hope you enjoy!

~Ann Parker

Disclaimer: I don't own Criminal Minds or the characters…they are just used for my own amusement and, hopefully, yours as well.

Previously, at the end of "Second Chances"

Clapping and hugs from the group, particularly Garcia, pulled them back into the present. After a few more dances, sometimes with the each other and some with the others, they were silenced by Rossi taping his glass. Everyone grabbed a flute of champagne. "They say that good things happen to good people. These are one of those things, and you are two of those people. Congratulations, Jennifer and Spencer. We love you."

"To second chances," Hotch added as the group clanked glasses.

The newlyweds exchanged a glance and kissed. No truer words had been spoken to describe how they pair felt at that moment.