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Title: Rubicon Summary: Skinner and Scully go to find Mulder in critical condition. Author's note: This was the first fanfic I wrote. I have revamped it hoping to get it right this time. I was a first time author when I wrote it. I hope everyone likes it this time around. This is the first in a four part series. I would like to thank the following people who helped me with the editing, ideas, and suggestions: my husband Robert (who thinks I am crazy), Chris Morford, Heather Arnold, Sue Fletcher, and especially Stephanie Wine. J. Edgar Hoover Building "Agent Scully, AD Skinner would like to see you in his office right away," Kimberly said. "I'll be there in ten minutes. I got some things to finish up," Dana said pounding away at the keyboard. "Scully, you really should get up here now," she said with a little more emphasis. "Kimberly, is something wrong?" she asked as she took off her glasses. "Scully, you really need to get up here now!" She hung up the phone with no intention of letting this last any longer. What Skinner was about to tell her she needed to know as soon as possible. She pulled out a fresh box of tissues and took them to Skinner's office. He was standing by the window looking out on a gloomy night. 'It's going to rain,' He thought, 'Perfect.' He looked over and saw Kimberly standing by the door with the tissues. "I thought you might need these. She is on her way up," she said sadly. He grunted as usual when he had bad news to deliver. "Go home, I can take care of this. Don't forget I'll be in Denver for the next week," he said. She quietly went to her desk, leaving the door open for Scully, gathered her things and left. Scully got off the elevator worried that Mulder had gotten arrested again in one of his escapades. She barley had enough money to bail him out last time. As she came to Skinner's office she noticed that Kimberly was gone. She went to the door and knocked on it. "Sir, you wanted to see me?" "Come in Agent Scully." He pointed to the chair in front of his desk. She went and sat down with a bad feeling. She was shocked to see that he sat next to her instead of behind his desk. "What's wrong?" she asked with a bad look of worry. He took his glasses off and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Scully, I got us booked on the next flight to Denver. Agent Mulder has been... well... he's been in an accident. He was in a mine there and it collapsed. He's in the Army Medical Center, the doctors said that he's in critical condition." She sat there in silence. Not sure what to think. "When do we leave?" she asked. Thoughts of Mulder swarmed her mind, she never even heard Skinner say anything else until he got up. "Scully are you ready or do you need time to absorb this? We've got three hours until we leave. Our flight leaves at 6:50pm." He looked surprised she didn't even move. All the sudden the tears started. He went and got the tissues. After she wiped away the last of her tears she looked at him and said, "I got a few things to get from my office. I'll meet you at my apartment in a hour and a half." She left with her mind swimming with random thoughts. Why Skinner was going, being the one she was most interested in. She went to the basement and looked around her and Mulder's office. She had spent the last four years here with him. He can't die, she kept telling herself over and over. She finally gathered her composure and packed up her laptop computer. "At least I can monitor his condition over the net," she said aloud to calm herself. She called the hospital and asked that updates be provided to her through her e-mail. She drove home blaming herself for letting Mulder go off half cocked again. Why was he doing that more now than before. Driving always gave her a new perspective on everything. She decided to take the long way home. 'What about Skinner, he never sits next to his agents in his office. Does he like me? That's not possible,' she thought, what would he see in a subordinate.' She sighed. As she pulled up to her apartment, she noticed Skinner standing by the entrance of her building. She gathered her things and got out locking her car. "What are you doing here so early?" she asked quizzically. "Scully, You need to hurry. Look at your watch," he said, 'Guess she didn't realize that she was running 10 minutes late.' "Oh, I'm sorry Sir, I didn't realize the time," she said looking at her watch. She ran up the stairs and packed quickly. Skinner was standing at the door to her apartment when she came out. "I'm sorry Sir, I didn't even ask you in," she said sheepishly. "Don't worry Scully, I know what you're going through," he said knowing she hadn't even given him a second thought. They got in his car and they drove to the airport in silence. They arrived at Dulles with little conversation. They performed the usual task of preparing to board the plane and turning in their luggage. Once aboard, they got seated and Scully pulled her laptop out to check on Mulder. "Ma'am," The stewardess said and Scully jumped, "I'm sorry I startled you, but we are going to be taking off in few minutes. Could you put your laptop away until we are airborne?" "Sure," she said sadly. She really wanted to check on Mulder. "Don't worry Scully I'm sure he's going to be fine. I don't remember giving him permission to die," he said with a smile. He was trying to cheer her up, but his entire attempt had been in vain. She barely had heard anything he said after telling her that Mulder was in the hospital. "Oh no," Scully cried, "I forgot to call my mom. I always tell her when I'm going out of town." "Don't worry Scully, I already called her. I figured you would forget," Skinner said looking out the window. He wasn't sure what to expect when they got there. When the doctors called the prognosis didn't sound very good. Mulder had wondered into an abandoned mine. He was 10 yards inside when it collapsed. He had several broken bones in all his extremities, a concussion and a punctured lung. When the plane leveled and the captain made his beginning of the flight speech, Dana pulled her cell phone and laptop back out. She looked at her e-mail. Two messages from the hospital. All the sudden she was scared to death by what they might say. She double clicked on the first one. To: Agent Scully, FBI To: Agent Scully, FBI Well at least he hasn't gotten any worse. She closed her eyes and tried to relax. "Well, we still got 4 and a half hours till we get to Denver. You should try to get some sleep," Skinner said. "No, I am not really tired," she said trying not to sound upset. "Where did you go to school?" Skinner asked to keep the conversation going. "University of Maryland. Class of 86'," she said looking out the window. "What about you, sir?" "I went to the University of Texas in Austin. Class of 78'," he replied. "I went to College with the help of the military." "Did you join the FBI after college?" she asked, actually getting curious. "I was recruited 2 months before I got my masters. You should really get some sleep. Depending on Mulder's condition we may have a long night ahead of us," he said concerned about the outcome of this situation. "Oh, alright," she said. She cleared her mind and let it wonder. Skinner's face kept entering her mind and blackness came. Skinner watched her drift into slumber. He never really realized how beautiful she was. He got a blanket from the stewardess and covered her up. He cared greatly for her out of respect of her decisions and actions. He knew she loved Mulder. There was no doubt about it. "Why do I do this to myself?" he asked himself. He did some soul searching to see if there was something wrong in his marriage with Sharon. It ended so badly. The divorce was only put off by 3 months after their reconciliation. He realized that she was right, no matter how he hated it. He thought about Scully. He already admitted those feelings for her to himself, but would he be able to admit them to her? He knew if he ever had the chance with her he would not shut her out like he did Sharon. Once they started their decent, Skinner touched her arm to wake her. "Dana, time to wake up," he said softly, "we're here." She looked up, with sleep still clouding her mind. "Walter, what's going on?" she asked still, as Mulder would say, way out there. "We are in Denver, Agent Scully," Skinner said trying to regain some composure and dignity. They departed the plane, both trying to recapture the dignity that had been lost. Skinner got a rental car and they left the airport. They drove directly to the hospital. Scully immediately went to see Mulder and Skinner went to check on his condition. As the doctor told Skinner about Mulder's condition, Scully was checking Mulder's chart for all the facts and no sugar coating. Mulder had suffered 11 broken bones, multiple catusions and abrasions, both ankles sprained, a concussion and a punctured lung. To make things worse, he had yet to regain consciousness. When she looked at him, she started to cry again. Both of his legs were in casts along with his right arm and his chest was bandaged and wrapped. His head was also wrapped up. From the look of it he had no hair. She wanted to hold his hand but from his chart he had four bones on his right hand had been broken and two on the left. "Scully, are you going to be ok?" Skinner asked sadly. "I'm fine sir," Scully said in her usual tone. "Scully don't tell me that. I happen to know for a fact that you pull that on Mulder. I am not him and I know better," Skinner said with a stern voice. To see her like this hurt him dearly. His heart also went out to Mulder. She smiled and turned back to Mulder. The doctor came over to Scully. "Agent Scully, I am LtCmdr. Brandon. Do you know where Agent Mulder's mother is? We have tried her home but we haven't been able to get hold of her," he said. She looked at him closely. She could not detect any emotion from him at all. 'He must have had a good professor', she noted. " Mrs. Mulder went to Europe, but I really don't know where," she said. She vaguely remembered Mulder mentioning it. "Agent Scully, Director Skinner, Agent Mulder needs his rest. I would appreciate it if you came back in the morning. Visiting hours are from 9 am till 8:30pm," he said sternly. Scully looked at her watch, 'Oh god it was 2:00am'. She suddenly felt tired. "Scully, I got us rooms at the hotel. We better go," he said. She nodded and they left. When they reached the hotel it was a disaster. They were booked for a convention with only one room left. "Agent Scully, you take the room. I'll find another room somewhere else," Skinner said annoyed. "Not likely sir, the Highlander Convention in town has this town all booked," said the desk clerk. "Sir, you can stay in my room on the couch if I have one," she said looking at the desk clerk. She didn't want him spending what was left of the night trying to find a hotel. "You got a 5 foot couch in your room, but it's all one room except the bathroom," the desk clerk smiled. They went to their room and settled in. Once everything was put away they both headed into the bathroom to change into their sleepwear. "Go ahead Scully. I'll change out here," Skinner said, "Okay?" Scully nodded. When Scully was about to come out she opened the door slightly and said, "Is it ok to come out?" "It's ok, Scully. I'm a former Marine, I still do things the Marine way swift and silent," he said with a smile she never saw. She gave him a blanket off the bed and went to sleep. Skinner tried to get comfortable on the 5-foot couch with his 6-feet 2-inch frame. He soon gave up and moved to the floor. He finally got comfortable and found he couldn't stop thinking of Dana. 'Why is she always in my thoughts? She is a federal agent and I have no right to be thinking of her so much,' he thought. He lay there for 3 hours before he gave up. He went and took a shower to wash away his stiff and tired muscles. When he came out of the shower he smelled the coffee. He did his daily routine; shaving, brushing his teeth, etc. When he came out Scully was on her laptop checking in on Mulder. "Scully, you should really be getting more sleep," he said with a hint of jealousy. "I heard you in the shower and got up. I figured if my boss is up then so am I," she said with a smile on her face that he had never seen before. "Mulder is improving and now is in serious condition. Unfortunately, he still hasn't regained consousness. Do you know why he was here?" "No, I don't but I plan to find out. I'm going to take you to the hospital to be with him and I'll go to his motel room to see what I can find," he said and poured himself some coffee. At the hospital, Scully sat with Mulder. "Mulder, I wish you would wake up. I really need to talk to you." She pulled up the covers to keep him warm. There had been no real change. His wounds were healing but he still hadn't regained consusiness. "I think I am falling for someone. I'm not sure why or when it all started but. I don't know. It seems right but it's all wrong," she said pacing then went and sat next to him on the bed. "What am I going to do?" she sighed. "Well I'm not sure what to say Scully," Mulder moaned. "Mulder! I'll go get your doctor," she ran out the door. Skinner stood in Mulder's motel room. Someone had been there, unless Mulder trashed the place, which was unlikely. He found Mulder's laptop; it had been wiped clean. 'What could Mulder be into,' he wondered? He pulled out his cell phone and called the authorities. When they arrived, he immediately had them dust for prints. His cell phone rang. 'Oh now what,' he thought. "Skinner," he said surly. "Sir, Mulder woke up," Scully said happily. An electric feeling ran through him when he heard her voice. "I'll be there in 20 minutes," he hung up and told the detective in charge his cell phone number. On the drive over, he couldn't imagine why he was jealous of Mulder. Scully was mulder's partner. She was also there for him when he was shot. That was just it. She was there for both of them when they were hurt. He tried to push her from his mind. If she weren't so damn beautiful. She always looked so good. She smelled so good all the time. 'I think I love her,' he thought. "I do love her," he said to himself as he pulled into the hospital parking lot. "Like it really matters." "How you feeling Agent Mulder?" Skinner asked. "I feel like shit, sir," Mulder coughed. "Well I hate to say it Mulder, but you do look like shit," Skinner laughed. "Tell me what you were working on?" Skinner asked. "Where am I anyway?" he asked unsure. "Mulder, do you remember anything?" Scully asked. "I don't know where I am," Mulder said. "Mulder you were involved in a cave-in just outside of Denver," Scully said with a shocked look on her face. "I only remember bits and pieces and none of it makes sense," he said sleepily. "All of you will have to go. He needs his rest if he is going to be transferred out of ICU," the nurse said from behind Skinner. "Scully, I think we've done enough damage here. There are a few things we need to discuss," he said with a hint of concern in his voice. "Thanks," he said and slammed down his cell phone onto the seat of the rental car. "What was that all about?" Scully asked. "Mulder's motel room was rifled through. Unfortunately, they found no prints except Mulder's and mine. His laptop was wiped clean. There is nothing there to suggest what he was doing here," Skinner said almost with a snarl. "He didn't tell you anything or any hint of what he was doing here," Skinner asked. "The only thing I know is that he wanted to come here to meet someone. Who I'm not sure, sir," she recollected. "And Mulder doesn't remember anything. Just great," he replied. They arrived at Mulders' hotel room just as the last of the police were pulling out. "My name is Detective Mills. Sir, we met earlier," he said with his hand extended. "This is Agent Scully. What have you found out?" Skinner barked. "Well sir, not much, as I told you over the phone. No other prints in the room. Nothing suspicious," the detective said. "Well let's see what we can find Agent Scully," Skinner said and huffed over to the room. "Sorry about his mood. He's really. concerned for Agent Mulder. He is one of the best we got," she said trying not to make Skinner out to be as worried she feared him to be. "Mulder always has a way of getting into trouble." Detective Mills nodded and left. "Scully, start in the bathroom and work your way forward and I'll meet you in the middle," Skinner ordered. "Yes sir," she replied. "And Scully, call me Skinner, all this sir stuff is starting to go to my head," he said with a smile. She smiled and went to the bathroom. Skinner started at the front door. He put right all the furniture and pilled the sheets on the bed. There was a local newspaper strewn all over the room. He collected it and put it on the table. He looked under the table and found nothing. 'Alright, if I was Mulder where would I put something so no one could find it?' he said to himself. He gathered all of Mulder's clothes and piled them on the bed. Scully went into the bathroom. 'Since when does he smile? Oh well. What can I find in here except dirty magazines?' she pondered. As expected, she found 3 dirty magazines. She picked up all his hygiene items; toothpaste, toothbrush, etc. Nothing unusual here. She looked through the cabinets. Nothing there either. 'Alright, if I was Mulder where would I put something so no one could find it?' she asked herself. She looked at his shaving cream again. Something was wrong with it. Couldn't quite put her finger on it. She looked in the toilet bowl. 'That's it the shaving cream,' she thought. "Skinner, come here I think I found something," she shouted. "What do you got Scully?" he asked not seeing anything worthwhile. "This isn't Mulder's usual shaving cream," she said. "Not that it's any of my business, but what's the importance?" he asked. His heart ached with what she might tell him. "He always uses a different kind," she said, all excited. "Let me look at it," he told her. He looked at it and found that the bottom twisted off. A small note fell out. Fox, "This makes sense," Scully said. "I think we should find Elaine," Skinner pointed out. "I'm going to find out if I can stay in Mulder's room until we leave," Skinner said. "Ok. I'll pack up Mulder's things and finish straightening up," Scully said. Scully packed up Mulder's belongings. She put them in his suitcase probably better than he did. She had started to clean up when Skinner returned. "Well, we have 30 minutes to get Mulder's belongings out of here. They already rented it out this morning," Skinner said angrily. "Let's go." Scully called the hospital and found that Mulder was being inconsiderate of the hospital staff. Needless to say they changed his condition to good. Even thought Mulder was doing better they were not going to release him until next Friday. They took Mulder's things back to their motel room and headed to the cave. "Denver Field Office, Agent Ryan speaking," said the voice on the other end. "Agent Ryan, this is Assistant Director Skinner. I need your assistance. One of my agents has been injured and we need to find his contact. Have a team of agents meet us at a cave. Take the 30 to Jewell Ave east. Pass Powhaton then go 3 miles and there will be a left turn, it will be a dirt road. Then it is 5 miles in. How soon can you be here and how many agents can you spare?" Skinner directed. "Sir, I have 15 agents currently unassigned and we can be there in 30 minutes. Is that acceptable, sir?" he said knowing Skinner from word of mouth. He had heard he was a real hard ass. "Fine, Agent Scully and I will be waiting for you there," Skinner said and hung up his phone. "Scully we will have about 10 minutes to wait around before the other agents show up. We will have 16 agents helping us. I just hope she is still there," he said knowing full well it was the 23rd and they were running out of time. "I just hope she doesn't spook when she sees us. If she wasn't in the cave-in," Scully commented. "Well as far as I know some hikers heard the cave-in and went and found Mulder," he sighed. "They didn't find anyone else but who knows." When they got to the site, they noticed it was still sealed off by the police. "Let me get the police involved so we don't step on any toes," Scully said. While she got on the phone, Skinner looked over what was left of the cave. He could tell where they pulled Mulder out. He pulled out his cell phone and called the field office again. "Denver Field Office, Agent Morgan speaking," the young female agent said. "This is Director Skinner again." "Yes sir, what can I do for you?" she asked. "I need to get some heavy equipment to clear out this cave, can you arrange that?" he asked. "Yes sir, but I'm not sure how long it will take to get it there. If I can get your number sir I'll let you know," she asked. Skinner gave her his cell phone number and went to find Scully. "Well I don't know how much we are going to find out today. We have maybe 3 hours of daylight and I am exhausted," he said. "I know the feeling sir. After the other agents get here have them start in on the cave and canvas the area, while we visit Mulder," Scully suggested. "Sounds good, but I don't know about you but I need something to eat," he commented. She smiled and thought of how nice he was. 'Nice, what am I thinking.' Agent Ryan and his men showed up 20 minutes late and Skinner's legendary 'hard ass' attitude showed through. After a proper etiquette and time management class, Ryan's men fanned out and started their search. Skinner and Scully drove to a local restaurant to eat and were going to see Mulder afterward. At the restaurant, Skinner and Scully made their way to a both in the back of the room. "Hello, My name is Cynthia. What can I get for you two tonight?" the waitress asked with a smile. "Hi, I'd like a chicken sandwich and a house salad with Italian dressing. I'd also like some hot tea please," Dana said. "Sir?" Cynthia looked at Skinner. "I'd like a chicken sandwich also but I'd like the soup of the day and a hot tea also," he said giving his menu to the waitress. "I'll be back with your drinks in a moment," Cynthia said and left them to each other. They looked around trying not to make eye contact. "Well, how's your mom doing?" Skinner asked just to ease the tension. "Mom, she doing fine. She's going to Nevada to visit Bill soon," she answered. "Nevada, I thought Bill was at Miramar," Skinner said. "The Navy pulled out of Miramar and moved to Fallon in Nevada," Scully said matter of factly. "Do you have any family sir?" Scully asked. "My folks live in Oregon and my sister lives in Idaho," Skinner answered uneasily. "Do you get to see them often?" she asked curiously. "I haven't spoken to my folks since I came back from Nam but I talk to my sister once a month," he replied. "Here you two go. You two make such a cute couple," Cynthia said giving them their tea. "I am sorry ma'am but this is my boss," Scully said. "OK." Cynthia said as she turned back to the kitchen. "Well that was a little uncomfortable," Scully added. "Yes, it was," Skinner added slightly uncomfortable. "Well... uh... What kind of music do you listen to?" he asked unsure and trying to get the conversation going. "I listen to classic rock n roll," she answered not knowing where this was headed. "So do I," he said happily. "I play a little guitar," he added. "Really," she began to perk up a little, "Bill plays too. He use to play for me." "That's nice. I use to play for Angela, my sister, all the time," he said as the food came. "Its nice we have something in common," Scully said and thanked Cynthia. The finished their meal with little conversation. They paid the bill and headed for the hospital. When they arrived, Mulder was trying to pick up on a nurse. 'Typical,' Scully thought. "Feeling better Agent Mulder?" Skinner asked. "Better, sir," he replied. "Sounds like it. Mulder quit giving the nurses a hard time," she said smiling. "Mulder, we need to talk," Scully said with a worried tone in her voice, "We found a note," she began. "Elaine, right?" Mulder asked. "Are you starting to remember?" she asked. "Not much, but some. It is starting to come back. I didn't find her in the cave. I was on my way out when it collapsed," he stated. Skinner's phone rang. "Skinner," he said with a huff. "Sir, this is Kimberly. I have an urgent message for you," she said with uneasiness. "What's the number?" he asked. He wrote the number down and dialed as soon as he hung up. "Yes," the voice said. "I was told to call this number, my name is..." he began. "This investigation is now over. Do you understand Mr. Skinner?" the voice said and the line went dead. "We have a problem," he began obviously upset, "This investigation is officially closed," Skinner said and walked out. Mulder and Scully looked at each other puzzled at what transpired. "Sir, what is going on?" Scully asked following him. "I've been told by a 'certain' individual to leave this case closed," he practically yelled. "Was it Cancer Man?" Scully asked getting irritated. "Yes!" he said with his teeth clenched. "Why do you listen to him?" she asked. "Don't push it Scully, I already know about you and Mulder. Don't try my patience about outside forces," he said to her angrily. "Skinner there is nothing going on," she spat at him. "Scully, I'm sorry. I just... we'll talk later and in private Agent Scully," he said sadly trying not to attract too much attention. "I'll wait for you in the car," he said angrily. She went in and talked with Mulder of what transpired between her and Skinner. "He cares for you very much," Mulder said, "Do you remember when your cancer went into remission a few months ago and you said Skinner seemed not surprised when he saw you in the hospital?" Mulder asked. "Yeah," she said hesitantly. "Skinner made a deal with Cancer man to help you and he is trying to protect you. Is Skinner who you were talking about when I woke up?" he asked quizzically. She looked into his eyes, "Yes, how... did you know?" she asked with a look of surprise on her face. "Just instinct," he laughed. "Why did he do that?" she asked. "I think that is something you need to ask him," Mulder finished. They rode in silence to the motel. Scully regretted letting him stay with her. She knew she liked him but he always made her so mad. 'Backing down to the Cancer Man,' she added to herself. All the way to the motel she started to get angrier with him for switching sides when it got inconvenient. She was enraged by the time they reached the hotel. As soon as they entered the room, Skinner pleaded with her, "Dana, please listen to me." She sat down at the table with an evil look. "Ok, explain yourself 'Sir'." "Dana, Cancer Man isn't my boss but he controls a lot of people who are. I can't go against him. You life would be jeopardized," he said shamefully. She had a look of shock on her face. "Walter, Mulder told me. Thank you for being concerned but I can handle my enemies," she told him with new insight. "Dana, I know Mulder would kill me if I did anything that might get you hurt. I know how much you love each other," he said sadly. He had had enough of them being in love. He loved her and could never be loved by her. He went to the window and looked out at the sunset. 'God, it's beautiful here.' He thought. "Walter," she said as she touched his arm, "I do love Mulder but not like you think. I would never share a bed with 'Spooky Mulder'." She smiled. "I thought..." He started looking at her dumbfoundedly, "I..." she leaned up and kissed him before he could finish. At first he was surprised but it felt too good to stop. He took into his arms and continued their passionate kiss. Finally, she broke his kiss and drew the drapes. She took her blazer off and put her gun in the nightstand. She strolled over to him and took off his glasses, coat, and gun. "You won't be needing these," she said coyly. She put his weapon in the drawer with hers. Walter still didn't know what to think. He wanted this to happen so badly, but was still unsure. "Dana, are you sure?" he asked like a little boy. "Walter, I asked Mulder what I should do and he told me you cared for me. Is he wrong?" she asked, afraid that she made a 'BIG' mistake. "Dana, I've loved you from the first day I met you, but this could have powerful repercussions," he said feeling extremely vulnerable. He had only bared his soul like this twice before and both ended badly. "Walter, I like you a lot, but we need to take this slow. I think we shouldn't tell anyone until we figure out how to avoid the repercussions," she said lovingly to him. He smiled and took her in his arms and kissed her again. They talked an explored each other, falling short of taking the last step to consumate their relationship. After Scully fell asleep, Skinner lay there next to her and still couldn't believe his fantasies came true. He was just drifting into slumber when the hotel phone rang. "Skinner," he said trying not to wake Dana. "Sir?" Mulder asked. "Mulder it's 2 am, what's wrong, did you remember anything?" he asked not really wanting to hear the answer. "I'm sorry sir I thought this was Scully's room. She was a little upset at you when she left and I wanted to talk to her," he said a little confused. "Hold on Mulder," Skinner said, not sure how they were going to explain all this to him. Mulder's jaw dropped at the thought of them being in the same hotel room together. "Yeah, Mulder," she said still half asleep. "So I take it you took my advice?" he said with a smile on his face. "Kinda, listen I'll be there in a couple hours to see you ok," she said. "I thought you might be lonely so I thought I'd call but..." he joked. "Mulder, there were no other rooms available. And he's sleeping on the couch," she said defensively. "Scully, have I told you what a bad liar you are? See ya," he said with a big grin on his face and hung up before she could say anything. Walter was already asleep. She snuggled up to him and went back to sleep with a grin on her face, happy and content. When she woke up, Skinner was dressed and on the phone. "Sure," he said and hung up with his normal commanding attitude. "Why didn't you wake me?" she asked. "You looked so peaceful, I didn't have the heart," he said with a smile on his face she had never seen before. He bent down and kissed her lovingly. "I got room service brining up you some breakfast. I have to take care of some things. I'll be back," he said and left. Scully was shocked to hear he ordered her breakfast for her. She had an hour before she had to leave to go see Mulder. 'Hope he gets back in time,' she noted to herself. She went and took a shower thinking of the wonderful night she had with Walter. 'Boy, this is going to be difficult to explain,' she thought. She finished her shower and dressed. She was doing her hair when breakfast came. "Come in," she said as she opened the door. The cart the porter was pushing had two covered platters, a pitcher of orange juice and a single red rose. 'Wow,' she thought. "Thanks," she said as she tipped him and let him out. The platters contained fruit and toast. She sat down to eat when there was another knock at the door. "Who is it," she queried. "Delivery," the voice said. She opened the door to find Walter standing there with a dozen red roses. "Walter, you're spoiling me already?" "Good morning Mulder," she said with a bright smile on her face. "Scully and AD Skinner, how good of a morning is it?" he asked with a playful smirk on his face. "Mulder do you need me to chew you out already?" he said trying not to smile. He hadn't been this happy in years. 'I am too happy,' he thought. "Mulder, how do we get hold of your mother?" Scully asked, realizing they had yet to notify her. "She's in London," he said, "Don't worry she'll be home on Monday." "We have a flight ready for you on Friday night so you can come home," Skinner told him. "I've arranged a nurse to accompany you." "Thanks sir," Mulder replied. "Sir, can I talk to Scully for a moment?" he asked. "Sure," Skinner replied. He left into the busy hospital. "Scully, what happened?" he asked. "We got a lot in the open. We talked for hours and nothing more," she told him. "Good, you're mine anyway," he said and they laughed. "Could you look into this some more for me off the record?" he asked. "Mulder, the Cancer Man is involved," Mulder's jaw dropped. "We'll never find out what the clone knew," she said sadly. He felt like he had lost his sister again. "I'm sorry," she said. "I'll try to find something out though," she promised. He smiled. "Now, you get better and leave the nurses alone," she said. She kissed him on the forehead and left. "Where are we going?" she asked as they drove. "We are going to the Field office," he stated. He pulled out his phone and used his speed dial. "Assistant Director Skinner's office," Kimberly said. "Kimberly, I need you to do something for me," he said. "Anything Sir," she said. "Go into my office and in the black filing cabinet pull Agent Mulder's file. Inside you should find some pictures of his sister. I need the adult photo faxed to the Field Office here in Denver," he directed. "Yes sir," she said. "Thanks," he said and hung up. "I didn't know you had files on us let alone pictures of Samantha," Scully said. "Dana, there is still a lot about me you don't know," he said with a smile. "Agent Morgan, did I receive a fax?" he asked when he walked into the office. "Not yet sir," she said nervously. "Don't worry I'm not going to bite your head off. If I was going to bite anyone's head it would be Agent Mulder for getting us into this," he said trying to reassure her. 'Got to work on my image,' he thought. "Do you have any preliminary reports yet?" he asked trying not to frighten the green agent. "Yes, I do, sir," she said handing him the file. "Ok, let's see what we got," he said reading through the file. "May I?" Scully asked. "Sure," Skinner said and moved his chair to the side so she could sit down and read with him. The file contained the statements by the hikers who called 911 and saved Mulder's life. It also contained the police report. They found no new information in the file. "Sir, I was just faxed a picture from your office," Agent Morgan said. "Good. I want copies distributed to all agents and the local police. If this woman is here I want her found," Skinner directed. "Yes sir," she said still in awe of him. "Let's go Agent Scully, I want to check up on something," he said. They went to Mulder's motel. "Sir, do you recognize this woman?" Skinner asked. "Yes, she was in here after you two left yesterday," the desk clerk said. "She left this for Fox Mulder. I told her he checked out but she insisted on leaving it," he pulled an envelope out from under the desk and gave it to Skinner. "I'll give this to Mulder," Skinner said and they went back to the hospital. "You say she left this for me after you two had searched my room?" Mulder asked. "That's what the desk clerk said," Scully answered. He slowly opened the envelope. He was scared, not for Sam but for himself. She had already rejected him once. 'This is scarier than the thought of Dana with Skinner,' he thought. Fox, I am sorry Elaine scared you. I found her before you did. Dad told me she was doing this. She was always so emotional. I, myself, am rational. I have told you before I am not ready to confront my old life. I have a family now. I have to protect them, like you protect Agent Scully. I know one day my children will ask me about you and that will be the day I will come and see you. Don't worry Fox, that day will come soon. I love you as I always have. I'm sorry. Quit looking for me. I will find you. They will hurt you again if you keep looking for me. Sam The tears filled his eyes. "She wants me to stop looking for her. She said she would find me when she and her family are ready," he sobbed. Scully sat next to him on his bed and hugged him as tight as she could. Skinner stood there and felt sorry for Mulder. He was totally alien to these feeling he had for Scully and his regret for Mulder. "Mulder, don't worry we'll find her," Scully said sadly trying not to cry. "No, Scully, I will wait. She wants me to wait so I'll wait. I am beginning to wonder how much in common you two have. She is as stubborn as you," he said. "I got a few calls to make, you two have to talk," Skinner said and left. The first call he made was to Agent Morgan. He had them pack up and debrief. He told them to e-mail him a copy of the report. He then called the hotel to arrange a 'special night' for Scully and him. "Mulder, there is something we need to talk about. I know we have had a shock with Sam," she started. "Go ahead Scully," Mulder said getting worried that this is a bad thing. "Well, I have started dating," she said scared that he'd get mad. "Is it Skinner?" Mulder asked. "Yes, we had a long talk last night and we decided to start dating. Nothing serious yet," she said a little unsure of what to say next. "Scully, just answer two questions. First, does he make you happy and do you think you can make him happy?" he asked taking her hand into his and smiled at her. "I hope I can make him happy and I know he makes me happy," she said. "Then I am all for you two, just be careful," he said smiling and pulling her into his arms to give her a small squeeze. "Mulder, why are you promoting me and Skinner?" she asked. "I don't know. You two just look good together," Mulder said looking into Scully's eyes. He moved his right hand to move a lock of hair out of her face, but hit her with his cast instead. "Damn," he said as she moved away from him. "Sorry, don't know my own strength," Mulder said with puppy dog eyes. "It's ok as long as it doesn't bruise. Last thing I want to explain is how my partner gave me a black eye," she said with a smile. "I thought the last thing you'd want to explain is Skinner," Mulder teased her trying to get her to smile. "Sir, its time to get another X-ray of your chest," a nurse said as she entered the room. "Ah, Nurse Janet, this is my partner Agent Dana Scully," Mulder said as Scully got up and shook the nurse's hand. "Hi, if he gives you too much trouble just call me and I'll come in and realign his bones myself," Scully said as she walked out the door. "Well, Walter, what are we going to do now?" Scully asked. "Well, I have a surprise for you later and whenever you are ready we can get back to DC unless you want to wait until Mulder is ready to come home?" Skinner asked with a smile on his face. He was no longer jealous of Mulder. He knew about partner relationships. "Well, I would like to spend some time with you and go home with Mulder," she said. "What's my surprise?" she asked. "You know I hate surprises." "Well your just going to have to wait," Skinner said as he leaned down and planted a soft kiss on her forehead. "Ok," she said blushing slightly. "I'm going to go back tomorrow night. From what Kimberly said I got a lot of work backed up on my desk," he said looking like he was not looking forward to going home. "Well when I get there you better have it done because you are going to take a long weekend," she said with a devilish grin on her face. "Ok, how about some lunch?" he suggested. They had lunch and discussed how they were going to keep their secret. Afterward, Scully dropped Skinner off at the motel and Scully went to see Mulder. "Mulder, how'd the X-rays turn out?" she asked as she entered his room. "Fine," he said looking tired. "I'm going to stay here until your ready to go home," she said sitting down next to him. "Good old 'Walt' doesn't mind?" Mulder asked feeling better. "He suggested it before I could ask," she told him. "Well, I am glad he isn't the jealous type," Mulder said putting his hand on hers. "He is going home tomorrow. Kimberly said his work was pilling up," she explained. "Good, at least I will be able to spend time with you," he said with a smile. "He has a surprise for me later," she said blushing. "So I take it this is serious," Mulder commented. "Yes, I think so," she said as her phone rang. "Scully," she answered. "Dana, its me. I'm ready when you are," he said with a grin. "Ok," she said and hung up. "Well, I gotta go. I'll see you tomorrow afternoon. Ok?" she asked. "Ok, don't do anything I wouldn't," Mulder said with a grin. "And what would that be?" she asked sarcastically. "Well maybe I should have said nothing I would do," he said laughing. "Oh, that hurt," he said feeling his ribs ached. "Serves you right," she said walking out the door. She arrived at the hotel a little after 3pm. She heard soft music coming from their room. 'How romantic.' She thought. She knocked on the door. "Walter, I'm here," Scully said knowing this was probably going to be the most romantic night of her life. He opened the door. There were literally a hundred candles lit in the room, roses everywhere, and Champaign chilling by the bed with gold rimmed glasses. He was wearing a black tuxedo. He had Enya playing on the portable CD player. "Well, how did I do?" he asked pulling her into his arms. She wiggled out looking all around the room and couldn't believe the change. "Oh, Walter this is way too much," she said looking around and worried she was going into shock. "Well, I've never been very romantic with my ex-wife, so I figured I would make up for it with you," he said. He took her into his arms and kissed her softly but with some degree of passion. 'Don't get a head of yourself. Take it slow,' he thought. He started by planting small, soft kisses and over her face. He took her coat off slowly and placed it on the chair. He took her blazer off and laid it with her coat. He took her waist holster off and put it in the drawer. She stood there unable to believe what was going on. 'This is so romantic,' she thought. He took her into his arms and danced with her. He pulled her close. "I love you,Dana," he said softly in her ear. "I love you too, Walter," she said looking up at him. She took off his coat and let it drop to the floor. They continued to dance and disrobe each other. After there were no more garments to take off he laid her on the bed. He had replaced the usual motel bedding with satin sheets. He knew satin was her favorite material. She began to cry softly. "What's wrong?" he asked puzzled. "No one has ever done anything like this for me," she said. "It won't be the last my darlin'," he said with a huge grin. He started planting small kisses on her neck and then slowly moved down with each kiss. She started trembling. "Are you cold?" he asked worried about her as always. "No," she said purring like a cat. He continued all the way down to her toes and back up again. She felt so excited. As soon as she could reach him without sitting up, she ran her hands over his shoulders and down his back. Now it was him who was trembling. "Are you cold?" she asked with a look of satisfaction. "No," he said with a smile. She liked his smile. He didn't smile often. She rolled him over and started her own barrage of kisses. He lay there and kept his cool trying not to rush it but it got more difficult with each kiss. "Allow me," he said rolling her back over. He got them their Champaign. "To us," he said. "To us," she replied. One sip is all they had. The end |
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Title: Rubicon II Summary: Skinner and Scully pay the piper. Authors note: This is the second of a trilogy. The first one did not have the response I was hoping for but due to demand of a few friends; I finished this one in record time. This story is written in Walter's point of view. If you didn't notice the last one was in Dana's. The next one will be in Mulder's point of view. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed writing this. I would like to thank Kathleen, Heather and my husband Robert for the inspiration and encouragement. Big cyber hugs. The intercom squawked. "Yes Kim?" Skinner asked trying to get through his files so he and Scully could get away for the weekend. "The Director would like to see you in his office as soon as possible sir," Kim said. "Tell him I'll be right there," he told her. He signed off on the next file and made a hasty exit to the Director's office. He was hoping that this wasn't about him and Scully. They had been very careful except when she had come home with Mulder but that was two months ago. "Sir, you wanted to see me?" he asked heading into his office. Skinner and Director Ralph Edwards had known each other since Skinner was in the Academy. "Hey Walt, come on in," Ralph said. Usually this meant a social call. "So what's up Ralph?" Walt said sitting in his usual chair in front of his desk. "Well I know about you and Agent Scully," Ralph started with a nervous look on his face. "I knew you would find out," Skinner said feeling a little guilty. "Walter, I have known you for years. You have done almost everything by the book until now. I don't understand this. This is a dangerous game you are playing," he said. "How did you find out?" Skinner asked. "I saw you two at a restaurant in Queenstown. Luckily Sarah didn't see you, you know how much she liked Sharon," Ralph said. "Last Friday, right?" Skinner inquired. "Yes, but why Scully?" Ralph asked. "She is everything I thought was wrong with Sharon. She's everything to me. I tried to keep it professional. Shit Ralph, I kept it professional for 4 years. It's just when we went to Denver to get Mulder I couldn't keep it that way. "I felt so bad. I just didn't know what to do," Skinner said unsure if his life was about to go down the toilet. "Well Walter, let's see what I can do. You say you two have been together for 2 months. I want to personally see all the X-Files and any other reports submitted by Agents Mulder and Scully. Then I will let you know how we are going to do damage control on this," Ralph said. "I'll have Kim bring those up right away and thanks," Walter said shaking his hand and left. "Kim, I need you to put together all the final reports for all files pertaining to Agent Mulder, Agent Scully and the X-Files for the last two months," Skinner huffed as he went into his office. He put his coat on the rack and moved to the window. He always gained a sense of calm when watching Washington's hustle and bustle. "Walter?" Scully asked as she walked into his office. Kim had called her and told her what was going on. "Dana, what are we going to do?" Walter said as he pulled her into his arms. He didn't want to leave his position he had worked 18 years for but he would not make Scully make that decision either. She had spent too many years training for her career. He was scared she would break it off with him just to keep her job but wasn't sure. He didn't think she would but only she knew the answer to that. "Walt, I am not sure but if all else fails I will transfer. I know you and Mulder will probably be at each others throats without me but I know you two can deal right?" she asked. "I don't want to see you have to transfer just because of our relationship. I don't know if I trust Mulder with anyone else," Skinner said as he sat at his desk. "The Director will be going over your files for the last 2 months to compare them with before. I hope everything goes our way. Do you still want to get together this weekend?" he asked. "Why not. Do you think Millville, New Jersey is far enough?" she joked. "Alright, you go back to work or we'll never get out of here," he said. "See ya at my place at 7 then right?" she asked. "I'll be there even if I have to go straight over there. My stuff is in my truck as we speak," he said with a smile. Scully was disturbed by what was going on. Director Edwards was already on to them. 'What if he decided to sanction them? What if he decided to dismiss Walter or me? God this is going to drive me nuts,' she thought. She got off the elevator and walked toward the office she called hers for the last five years. Sure there were times she felt like an outsider, but Mulder had changed after she had gotten that stupid tattoo. It's only been a little over a year since then. She stood outside the door and looked at her nameplate. They had just put it up 3 weeks ago. That was the only thing Mulder hadn't done until then. She had gotten her desk. They had to archive a lot of files to disk and sent the hard copies to central archives so they could take some of the filing cabinets out to fit her desk in the office. They had gone through a lot of changes in the last two months. She had worked 2 cases on her own because Mulder was still on sick leave. The first case they had worked, when he returned, had been a hoax in Tennessee. Skinner had Mulder's hide on that one. Mulder had, once again, posed the evidence in his favor to get the cased opened in the first place. The second one had been the occult. Skinner was harder on Mulder now than before. It wasn't because of her but he still wiped him on the carpet. She entered the office not even trying to seem happy. "Scully, what's wrong?" Mulder asked as she sat at her desk. "We have a problem, Director Edwards saw me and Walter at dinner last Friday night. I mean we went well out of our way. We went to Queenstown and that's 50 miles away. It's not like we went to the cafe across the street and made out or anything," Scully said pacing the small office. "Scully don't worry, things will be ok. I could pull a few strings for you," Mulder said trying to get Scully in a good mood and trying not to laugh at the same time. "We'll see," she said. She sat down and started writing a report for Forensics. "Are you and Skinner still going to go away for the weekend?" Mulder asked from his desk. "Yeah, we're leaving at 7. Do me a favor; check on Mom this weekend. She has been a little worried about Bill and Tara since the move. To make matters worse, she has been having nightmares about Emily," Scully said sadly. The thought of her daughter still depressed her. It hasn't been as bad since Walter came into her life but it still bothered her. "Not a problem, I'll see if Frohike can get us some tickets to the Ballet. I am sure she'd like to go out with me," Mulder smiled. "She likes me best anyway." He always joked about being in the family. Mom always said Mulder was a Scully in disguise. "Mulder, is there anything else that needs to be done before I leave?" Scully asked as the clock struck 5pm. "No, you go get ready for your romantic weekend. I'll make sure everything is in order by Monday," Mulder said straightening some files and going over some news articles. "Mulder you're not looking for a case again are you?" Scully said putting on her coat. "No, I'm just getting some articles together for a scrapbook for Bryers. His birthday is coming up and I figured I would put together a scrapbook of all the cases we solved that are not classified," Mulder answered. "That's nice. I'll see if I can find something for him this weekend. Well, I am out of here. Bye Mulder," Scully said walking out the door. "Bye Scully," Mulder said not even looking up from his work. Scully walked into her apartment, hung up her coat and played her messages. "You have 3 messages. Message one. Dana, it's mom, give me a call before you leave for the weekend. I'll talk to you later. Bye. Message two. Hey Dana, I'll be there a little late. I had a talk with Jim in Cincinnati. I'll tell you about it on the way. I'll be at your place about 7:30. Sorry babe. Message three. Hey Scully, I need a favor. Give me a call when you get in. End of messages." The answering machine erased the messages and reset itself. "Well, I am going to get ready first then call everyone back," Scully said to herself. She desperately wanted a shower and a change of clothes just in case Walter got there on time. After her shower, Scully put on her old faded jeans and a blue sweater. She had brought her bag to the livingroom when the phone rang. "Hello," Scully said. "Dana, it's Mom. I'm glad I caught you," Mom said sadly. "Mom what is it? Is something wrong?" Dana asked. Mom never sounded like this except when something was wrong. "Dana, I need to talk to you. Can I come over?" Maggie asked unsure of herself for the first time in her life. "Mom, are you ok?" Scully asked. "Yes, it's you I'm worried about," she said. "You can come over now if you like, Mom. Walter and I are going to be leaving late anyway," Dana replied. "Thanks dear. I'll be right over," Maggie said and hung up. 'What was mom up to?' Scully wondered. Maggie drove as fast as she could without getting a ticket or in an accident. She had had one of her premonitions again. This one was disturbing because of Emily. The thought of her grandbaby being a clone was devastating. She parked in front of the building, by Dana's apartment. Dana waved from the window and met her at the door. "Mom, are you ok?" Scully asked. "I will be. We need to talk. Is Walter here?" Maggie asked. "No not yet he had to work late tonight," Scully said escorting her mom into her apartment. "I'll make some tea," Scully said. They went into the kitchen and Maggie pulled up a chair as Dana got her favorite blue kettle and started the tea. "Alright Mom what is it?" Scully said knowing she was going to have to pry this one out of her mom. "Dana, you know how sometimes I just see things," Maggie began. "Mom, I know you like Mulder but I don't love him like that. We already had this talk," Dana said. "Dana, this has nothing to do with Mulder. It has to do with you and Walter. I had a dream this afternoon," Maggie began. "You two were at a doctor's office and you started crying. It wasn't Dr. Zuckerman though. I don't remember this doctor at all. I couldn't hear anything but, Dana, I would really like it if you went and saw Dr. Zuckerman just in case. I just worry you know," she said. "Mom, I will go next week. I will call Dr. Zuckerman first thing Monday morning. Ok," Dana said. "Thanks," Maggie said putting her hand on Dana's. They heard the door open in the front room. "Dana, are you ready?" Walter said coming into the apartment. "We're in here," Dana said. "Hello Mrs. Scully, hey sweetheart, these are for you. Sorry I had to work late," Walter said handing Dana a dozen red roses. "If I would have known that you were going to be her Mrs. Scully, I would have gotten you some flowers too," Walter added. "Is anything wrong here?" He asked feeling like he interrupted something. "No, don't worry. Go ahead and put the bags in the car," Dana said standing up to give him a hug and kiss. "OK," He said leaving them to finish. "Mom, don't worry," Dana said. "Well, I am glad that you are happy with him," Maggie said to her daughter. Dana started to walk her mom out to her car. "Well I am happy and Walter loves me. Don't worry mom," Dana said yet once again. "Mrs. Scully don't leave because of me. We have guaranteed reservations at the bed and breakfast. We have a 3 hour drive but if all fails we can leave after a couple of hours sleep," Walter insisted. "No, you two have fun. I hope everything goes well," Maggie said getting into her car. "Oh, mom Mulder is going to be giving you a call tomorrow. He said he was going to be bored this weekend and said something about calling you to go out or something," Dana fibbed. Well it was close to the truth. "That will be nice. Now have fun you two," Maggie said as she pulled away. "Well if we get started now we can make it to the in by 11:30," Walter said. "Ok let's go," Dana said going to get her purse. They started their drive in silence, both thinking of what to say. "I talked to Jim over in Cincinnati and he said he'd back us up if and when it came time. He agrees that if it doesn't interfere with our work then we should be allowed to continue our relationship as long as it is discrete. I don't mean going out of our way just to make sure we are not seen, but not go overboard with it," Walter said. "That's good," Dana said looking out her window. She wasn't sure on weather to tell him or not. 'Why not?' She thought. "Walter, my mother had a premonition. I don't know if you believe in them or not but I am not sure about this one." "What was it about?" Walter asked not sure if he really wanted to know. "She dreamed that we were in a doctor's office but it wasn't Dr. Zuckerman's office. He told us something and I started crying," she started. "I don't know what to think about it but mom wants me to see Dr. Zuckerman next week just to make sure. What do you think?" "I think it is a good idea. It doesn't hurt just to make sure," Walter said sadly. He had gone through too much for her to get sick again. He started to get angry again. He couldn't help wanting to rip the Cancerman's throat out. "Have you been feeling alright?" he asked before he exploded. "I feel fine. I mean its not like when I had cancer. I am a little tired but I think it is from all the extra exercise I have been getting," she looked over to Walter and winked. "I am fine, really. In fact I have been eating like a horse. Well, I guess I won't worry till next week," she giggled at his remark and started to stare out the window. They were getting ready to get on the 40 State Highway. Dana dozed off watching the scenery go by. "Dana, we're here," Walter said picking Dana up from her seat. "Walter, huh. put me down," she said sleepily. "Ok. You're no fun," he pouted. They walked up to the second floor room. Walter picked her up again to carry across the threshold. "Oh Walter it's so beautiful," she said. Walter lowered her down to the floor as she looked around. The bed was a four poster canopy bed that was raised off the floor. The canopy was lace all around the bed. There was an oak chester drawer with 6 drawers. On the opposite wall was a brick fireplace. In the back of the room, was a bathroom with an old fashion raised tub with room for two. They had towel, scented soaps, bath oils, and candles. "My god this is so wonderful," she said not believing her eyes. "Walter how much did you pay for this?" she asked. "Don't worry about it. It is all for us," he said. They both bathed and got ready for bed. Exhausted from the drive, Walter was asleep as soon as he hit the pillow. Dana lay next to him, her head still spinning, thinking of how he had done this for her. He had told her that he was going to always be romantic with her and never let her go. She wasn't sure on whether to believe it or not but now she was sure he'd go to any length for her. Dana snuggled up to him and fell into the night. Walter woke up to the sun shinning in his eyes. He lay there happy that he had taken Dana to this place. It would be a great change for them. He thought they needed to get away. What a better long weekend than 4th of July. Walter turned over to see his loving lady. "Dana, what. Dana, where are you?" he said looking for her. He climbed out of bed and went to the bathroom thinking that she may be in a bath. "Dana?" he said looking in there. 'Where the hell is she?' he thought. He got dressed and decided to ask Mrs. Tara Naill, the innkeeper. She was an older lady from Ireland. She had a really thick accent but was a nice as pie. "Good morning Mrs. Naill. Have you seen my girlfriend Dana Scully? She has red hair, about this tall, and blue eyes," he asked. "Morn'in Mr. Skinner. Sleep well, did ya?" she asked in her bright and chipper Irish way. "I slept great but have you see Dana?" he asked trying not to sound worried. "No sir. But I just got done with the morn'n dishes," she said straightin up the reception area. "If you see her let her know I am looking for her," he finished and went outside to see if she had taken the car. He saw his Taurus sitting in the same spot that he had left it last night. His watch said 10:45. 'Maybe she went for a run,' he thought. Walter went up and got ready for the afternoon that he had planned already putting off all the things he had planned for the morning. He put all their clothes away in the dresser. He looked around and tried to figure out what she had worn when she went out. He found her gym shoes. 'This is too weird,' he thought. He went back down stairs and found Mrs. Naill. "Mrs. Naill have you seen Dana yet?" he asked. "No sir. I haven't seen the lass yet," she said preparing lunch. "Mr. Skinner please call me Tara. You and your lass will be here for a while longer right?" she asked. "Yeah if I can find her," he said heading back to their room. He got his cell phone out and called her. One ring, two rings, three rings and found her phone in her suitcase. 'Let's try Maggie,' he thought. He dialed hoping not to sound too worried when he talked to her mother. "Hello," Maggie answered. "Maggie, this is Walter, have you talked to Dana today?" he asked. "No dear, do you want to talk to Fox, he's here," she asked. "Sure, thanks," he said knowing Mulder was going to be pissed off. "Sir, what is going on, where is Scully?" he asked already pissed off. "I don't know Mulder, I woke up and she was gone. That was 4 hours ago and I have her cell phone. I don't know what she was wearing, I'm not sure what she brought," he said. "I'll be there as soon as I can get there," Mulder said and hung up. "Don't worry mom I'll find her," he said. "I know you will Fox, but remember, she loves Walter. Don't start fighting or I will come down just to make sure," she said sternly. "Yes mom," Mulder said and left her to her thoughts. He ran over what needed to be done. He had to pack, call Skinner and get the address, make hotel reservations, and get with the Lone Gunmen. "Not a problem Mulder see you at around 5pm. Right, bye," Skinner said. He went down stairs and decided to talk to Tara about a room for Mulder. "Tara, is there a cheap hotel around here a friend of mine could stay in?" he asked. "Sure there is laddy, is it a lass or a lad you want to put up?" she asked. "Fox Mulder, he's Dana's partner," he said. "Well then, the Roadside Inn is 5 minutes away from here. It tis not as nice as me own but I'm sure he'll like it," she added trying to do some paperwork at the front desk. "I am going to inform the police about this. Do you have any problems with that?" he asked. "No laddy, just make sure that they don't make a fuss round here. I have other guests that don't want to be bothered," she added. "Yes ma'am," he said and headed to the police department. "Good after noon Officer Gomez, I need to speak to who ever is in charge of your missing persons department, I am Assistant Director Walter Skinner FBI," Skinner stated in his business voice. "Yes, sir I will get Lt. Williams out here in a moment," she said and went into the back. Looking at his watch he noticed it was 2:15. He pulled out his phone to call Tara just in case. "Naill Bed and Breakfast, this is Tara, may I help ya?" she asked. "Tara, it's Walter, has Dana come back?" he asked. "No laddy she hasn't, I am sorry. Have you talked to Mary yet?" she asked. "Not yet but I will be here shortly. I'll talk to you later Tara," Skinner said and hung up as he heard a stifled cough behind him. He turned around to see a young woman looking at him slightly annoyed. "I am Lt. Mary Williams, what can I do for you sir?" she asked. "I am Assistant Director Walter Skinner FBI, can we talk in private?" he asked. "Yes, sir follow me," she said. They went into her office and she showed him a seat in front of her desk. She closed the door and sat down in front of him in her chair. "Alright, do you want to tell me why you wanted to see me sir and what the FBI has to do with it?" she asked, none too happy. "Well, to begin with I am here with my girlfriend Agent Dana Scully also with the FBI and she has disappeared. She was last seen in our room around 1:30am this morning. We are staying at the Niall B-n-B. I know it hasn't been long enough to file a police report but I was hoping I could at least give you a picture to start the process," he stated. "Well, you are right AD Skinner but since I have you here I will start with the pilmanary questions. How long have you known her? How long have you been dating, you know the drill," she said. "Well, I have known Agent Scully since March 1994 professionally. We started dating in April. We have been on long weekends like this before. I don't want to make this public unless we have too. I am her boss," he said. It all clicked into her head when he said this. "Ok I get the picture, you have worked with her for 4 years, started dating her 3 months ago and are still her boss. This makes it rather sticky," she said. "Yes it does," Skinner said not sure where this was going. "Does she have any ex-lovers that have been harassing her or do you have any old girlfriends who are the jealous type?" she asked trying to cover all the bases. "I am not sure about her, I would have to ask Mulder on that one, but my ex-wife died April 6, 1996. I haven't dated anyone since," he said sadly. "Alright, give me a picture and we'll see what we can do. Normally we wait 48 hours but since she is an agent we'll start now. Detective Schmidt and I will be working the case and will keep this quiet as long as we can until we can not do anything more on the inside," she said. Skinner gets his cell phone out and dials Kim at home. "Hello," she said laughing. "Kimberly, this is Skinner, I know its your day off and all but I need a favor," he said. "Anything sir," she said worried that his only real vacation was going to be all work. "I need you to go into my office and get Scully's file and get her personal data sheet, medical sheet and current photo and fax it to." he began looking at Lt. Williams and asked "Lt. what is you fax number?" she wrote it down for him. "Its area code 757-555-5551. Make it attention Lt. Williams, Missing Persons department. I need it right away and put a leave request in for Agent Mulder and myself for 1 week and a missing addendum for Agent Scully again. She was last seen at 0130 hours EST. Got everything?" he said sadly. "Yes sir, my prayers are with you," she said and hung up. "If you need anything else I will be at the Bed and Breakfast," he said and left. He drove to the Roadside Inn and got Mulder a room. The desk clerk looked at him funny but didn't say anything. He then drove back to the B-n-B to talk some more to Tara before Mulder got there. "Tara what do you think happened to Dana?" he asked. "I'm not sure laddy, but you'll find her I know it. Me husband Greggory told me so," she said cooking him a late lunch. "I haven't met Greggory, where is he?" Skinner asked. "Greggory died 15 years ago. He died from old age he did," she said sadly. "So he talked to you from beyond," Skinner replied, unbelieving. "He always has. Stubborn lot the Niall are. Can trace the family back a thousand years we can," she said proudly. "I think you and Agent Mulder will get along nicely," he said with a smile. Agent Mulder showed up around 4:30. "Jeez Mulder how fast did you drive?" Skinner began, "No don't tell me. I don't want to know," he finished. "Alright, exactly what happened?" Mulder asked. "Come on we need to go see Lt. Williams and I will explain on the way there," Skinner said and walked with Mulder out to his car. "Officer Gomez, we are here to see Lt. Williams again," Skimmer said. "Yes sir, follow me," she said. She led them into the Lt.'s office. "Lt. Williams, this is Agent Mulder, Agent Scully's partner. Mulder this is Lt. Williams she is going to help us find Scully," Skinner began. "Nice to meet you Lt.," Mulder said. "Like wise Agent Mulder. Do you have any information that will be helpful?" she asked. "Well, I can help find her if that is what you mean. Let me give you some background but this is confidential. I cannot stress the implications if any of this was to get out," Mulder said. Lt. Williams got out of her chair and closed the door. "All right Mulder what do you have?" she asked. "Skinner remember when Scully was on her death bed?" Mulder asked. "Yes, what does that have to do with anything?" Skinner asked. "I got the replacement chip from the Cancerman and had it checked out by the Lone Gunmen. They put a tracking device on the chip before it was implanted back into Scully. I am just waiting for them to get the equipment warmed up and her location traced," Mulder explained. "You know she is going to through a fit when she finds out don't you?" Skinner asked. "Yeah but it did come in handy didn't it," Mulder said. "So how soon can these friends of yours get her location?" Lt. Williams asked. "Let me find out how much longer," Mulder said pulling out his cell phone. "Speak," Langly said. "Turn off the tape Langly," Mulder gripped. "Ok Mulder but no names, you know the drill," Langly said. "Where is she guys?" Mulder asked. "We got her tracked down to Vineland, New Jersey, it's north of your position. I would say about 8 miles. Do you want us to meet you there or what?" Langly said. "No, no need for you guys to get involved. Tell Frohike that I'll have Scully call when we get out of this mess," Mulder said and hung up. "Do you have a map of New Jersey Lt.?" Mulder asked. "Yeah, hold on," she said looking on a shelf. "Here it is," she said pulling out her map. "Do you know where Vineland is Lt.?" he said. "Sure, its right. here," she said. "That is where we need to go. The guys had her tracked down to there. I will be communicating with them if we have any problems," he said. "Can you call anyone down there to give up some local support? I am not sure what kind of support to count on from out field office in Richmond but I will see what I can do?" Skinner said. They got on their phones and called in the Calvary. Lt. Williams called the sheriffs department and had them keep an eye out for Scully and any suspicious behavior. Skinner got a hold of Special Agent Sanchez and got 5 agents to help from there. Skinner and Mulder went to the B-n-B so Skinner could change and get his gun. "Tara, Tara, where are you?" Skinner called out when he entered the B-n-B. "Laddy that's more than enough. I am right here," Tara said coming out of the kitchen. "Why laddy is this the Agent Mulder you were speak'n of?" Tara asked. She dried her hands off on her apron. "Call me Mulder ma'am," Mulder said with a smile. He immediately took a liking for her. "Well Mulder, call me Tara. I believe laddy here says I'd be likin' ya," she said. "Well, I am interested in the paranormal and the occult," Mulder said. "Well, me Greggory says you love laddy's lady," she said. Skinner and Mulder looked at each other with anger in their eyes. "Yeah well, I do love Scully but only in as a friend," Mulder said. "Well lady has the charm she does," Tara said straightening up the magazines in the lobby. "So, how often do you talk to Greggory?" Mulder asked. "As often as he likes. He is a strong Irishmen he is. The two of you will have your lady back tommora you will," she said and left Skinner and Mulder watching her leave. "Quite a lady," Mulder said. "That she is Mulder. I'll be back," Skinner said taking the steps two at a time. Mulder looked around the lobby. He saw that the entire house was full of antiques and Irish literature. "Findin everything fine Mr. Mulder?" Tara asked coming from the kitchen. "Yes ma'am. Where did you find some of these books? I notice a lot of Irish folklore," Mulder asked politely. "Well, me Greggory's family been passing those books down through the family line," she said as she started dusting. "Do you run this place all by yourself?" Mulder asked. "I don't be needin' no one. I have been through a lot of things sonny, but you look like you lost your best friend," she stated looking at him closer. "Yes ma'am, I guess I did," Mulder said. "Ready to go Mulder?" Skinner asked coming down the stairs. He was dressed in his usual suit and ties. "Well laddy, you certainly go all out to be professional," Tara said. "Unfortunately Mrs. Naill, this is business," Skinner began, "Let's go Mulder." Then he and Mulder walked out the door. They stopped by Mulder's hotel to cancel the reservations. Skinner figured they wouldn't be in a position to come back. They then made their way to the police station. 'We will find her, We will find her.' Skinner kept chanting in his mind. "Lt. Williams, what have you come up with?" Skinner asked. "Not much sir, we have established that Agent Scully was seen in Vineland. Whether or not she is still there that is the question," she said. "What condition was she in when sighted?" Mulder asked. "She was being escorted to the ladies room by two gentlemen one 5'10", brown hair, no eye color, dressed in a brown business suit. The other one was 6'1", sandy brown hair, brown eyes, dressed also in a brown business suit. They were last seen at the Pilot Gas Station in Vineland around 0415 today," she informed them. "Well let's go," Skinner said. "Let' mount up and move out," she said gathering her personnel and maps. The drive took 20 minutes from the police station to the Vineland Police Station; Lt. Lyman and SAIC Sanchez met them. "What is our situation?" Skinner asked when they arrived. "It doesn't look good sir. This is a small town. I don't think they are here anymore," Lt. Lyman said. "At least we got something to work with here," Sanchez said. "Have you deposed the witness Lt.," Mulder asked. "Yes I have Agent Mulder." "Mr. Nicks saw them take her to the ladies room. He runs the local Pilot Gas station," Lt. Lyman said. "We have also checked the bathroom and found this." Lt. Lyman took them into the ladies room and found that Scully had written on the mirror with the liquid soap. It said 'Carina Sayles inv' and nothing else. "What the hell is that supposed to mean? Who is Carina?" the Lt. asked. "Carina Sayles was murdered and we investigated it along with a cop from Washington PD," Skinner said furiously. 'How could she bring this up now,' he thought. "Sir, can we talk?" Mulder said. Skinner walked out of the ladies room and walked over to their car. "Sir, what if Detective Waltos is the one who took her," Mulder suggested. "What are you saying Mulder?" Skinner wondered. "I have the photographic memory, she doesn't, but if she recognized him from your investigation she had to tell us who he is somehow," Mulder explained. "All right, call the Washington PD and find out his whereabouts for the last 48 hours," Skinner said walking away. "We are checking on a lead now. As soon as Mulder verifies the information we are speculating then we will confirm the information Mr. Nicks provided," Skinner told Special Agent Sanchez. "Confirmed sir, it is Detective Waltos. He was fired 5 days ago for insubordination and has been under review for sexual harassment twice since the investigation we were involved in. It is a pretty good chance he is one of our assailants," Mulder said sadly. Somehow he felt responsible for this, not sure why but he felt he was. Skinner pulled his cell phone out and called Kim again and had her get a photo of Det. Waltos faxed to the local police department so they could identify him as one of Scully assailants. "Lt. Lyman is there anyway you can have your men on alert tonight. I am afraid that none of us are going to be any good to Scully if we don't get some sleep until some clues turn up," Skinner said. "Not a problem sir." Lt. Lyman said getting on his radio and informing all 8 of his night crew of the description of Scully and her assailants. Skinner and Mulder where escorted to the local hotel and got rooms. They met in the lobby to get some dinner. They went to The Vine bar and grill. Once the waitress sat them down, Skinner ordered a scotch straight up. Mulder had his usual Iced Tea. "Sir, are you alright?" Mulder asked. "No Mulder, I'm not. I cannot believe that she was taken from the same bed I was in," Skinner said finally letting the anger get to him. "We will find her sir," Mulder said looking at the menu. "You really don't seem affected by this, why?" Skinners asked getting angry. "Sir, I believe Tara. I know we will find her tomorrow. She will be fine or Det Waltos will be dead. It is plain and simple. I will not let myself become the way I was when she was gone before. I am no good to her like that and neither are you sir," Mulder said with a little more anger than he intended. He wasn't happy with Skinner's current condition but for Scully's sake he had to put up with it. They finished their dinners and went back to the hotel. Skinner had the local drug store drop off some sleeping pills. He knew Mulder was right, if he wasn't at his best then who knows who would end up dead. It would do no good for Scully to be alive if he had to sacrifice everyone else. He took one of the pills and lay down. He thought of Scully until he fell asleep. He woke up suddenly to shouting and gunfire outside his room. He couldn't understand what they were saying. He pulled his pants on and got his gun. He peeked out the door and saw Mulder taking a defensive position by the window. Skinner made his move to Mulder's side. "What the hell is going on Mulder?" He barked. "Sir, the Detective and his partner decided to put an end to me and some other personnel staying here. Thankfully one of them decided he wanted to live today," Mulder said taking a shot. "I hope no one was hurt?" Skinner asked. "No sir but two are wounded. They'll live," Mulder said. Skinner took up a position on the other side of the window. Skinner saw the Detective's partner trying to reach a vehicle. Skinner pointed his weapon to the suspect and tried to decide what type of shot to use: kill or wound? He wanted to kill the bastard for taking Scully in the first place. He had to go for the wound to get him the justice he deserved. He shot. Time stood still for the moment. The bullet went through his kneecap and he went down grasping his leg. Just then Mulder shot and killed Det Waltos. 'I guess he isn't as forgiving as I am' he thought. "Good job Mulder. Let's get a body count," Skinner said going downstairs dressed only in his pants. Being with Scully was having a profound effect on him. He was doing things he normally didn't do. It was good for his image though. There was 3 other FBI personnel there. Two of them were injured but not too badly to stay out of the firefight. There were also a few officers already on the scene. "Have the paramedics been called?" Skinner barked. "Yes sir. The corner has also been called and a car to pick up Mr. Fred Waltos," the officer said. "He told me he wanted to talk to you specifically sir," the officer said. "I will be there in a minute," Skinner said heading to his room to get dressed. He came back 5 minutes later looking like he came from a tailor. "Mr. Waltos you wanted to speak to me?" Skinner asked trying not to sound angry. "Yes I did. Dana spoke about you, she said she wanted you to know if anything happened to her. My brother made me do this. They told him to do this," he said. "Who told him to do this?" Skinner asked. "I don't know just that they are dropping her off in front of her mothers tonight and she will be fine but Ed got mad and decided to take it out on you guys and we followed you to her and that is when he went nuts," Fred said. "Alright I'll see what I can do to see that the DA knows that you helped us on this but if she is harmed in any way by you, you will wish you had died. Do you understand me Mr. Waltos?" Skinner said getting really pist off. "Yes sir," Fred said putting his head into his lap trying not to hyperventilate. "Mulder contact your friends to see if they can get a fix on her, if not I want you to drive up to Maggie's ASAP. Mr. Waltos said she was going to be dropped off there tonight. Lt. Lymon any more leads if she is still around?" Skinner asked as Mulder sped out of the driveway. "No sir there is no evidence of that," Lyman said sadly. "Alright start searching and see what we can get together. Agent Sanchez and Lt. Williams make sure you interview our suspect and get a statement out of him of all the events that took place between the time Agent Scully was abducted and the time the other people took her. I want a full account," Skinner barked. "Yes sir," they both said and took off for the station. "Det Schmidt, I want you and the others to gather evidence and take statements from witnesses. I will be heading back to Millville to get my belongings and head to Mrs. Scully's house to see what happens. I will be faxing my statement to you Det. Schmidt. Any questions or complaints?" Skinner asked. No one answered. "Good, lets get to work people," he said. "Skinner, the guys lost her signal 20 minutes ago and can't reacquire her signal," Mulder said. "Go to Mrs. Scully's then," Skinner ordered. Mulder took off to his car and peeled out. Skinner headed to his room and collected his and Mulder's belongings. He checked Mulder and himself out of the hotel. He then got his car and went back to Millville. Tara was waiting for him at the door of the Inn. "Well laddy did ya find her?" Tara asked. "Not yet, I am going back to Washington to see if I can find her. One of the guys that took her said she would be dropped off at her moms tonight," he said. "Aye laddy, her mum is the key," Tara said and went into the Inn. "Here ya go laddy, I had your luggage packed an brought down. Now go and get her back laddy. Come see me again," she said and went into the kitchen. He got on the freeway at about 12:50. Mulder had a two-hour head start. Skinner decided to call him to see if he called Maggie. "Mulder," he answered his phone. "Mulder, did you call Mrs. Scully yet?" Skinner asked. "Not yet I figured you would do that sir. Be careful at the change over at the I-895 there was an accident," Mulder said. "Will do, I am about 2 hours behind you. I will meet you at Mrs. Scully's around 4 p.m., I got a couple of things to do first before I get there. Do you have a bullet proof vest in your car?" Skinner asked. "No sir I don't," Mulder said getting worried. "I will make sure there is one there for you. I will see you then Mulder," and he hung up. He immediately called Kim. "Hello," she said answering her phone. "Kim, I need another favor and you'll get another 3 day weekend next weekend with pay," he began. "You don't need to do that sir, what can I do?" she asked. "I need you to go to Mrs. Scully's house and get her out of there. Take her to my office and make sure she takes a lunch and take her to dinner. I will make sure you get reimbursed for the whole dinner. I also need you to get Agent Gilmore and some of his people to Mrs. Scully's house to set up. Dana should be dropped off tonight there. Make sure they take a vest for Mulder. One more thing, I need you to get a hold of Dr. Zuckerman and ask him to be at General Hospital tonight incase she is brought in, she may need medical attention he can provide and get Dr. Gloria St Johns. Her number can be found on my rolodex. I want them standing by at the hospital no later than 4 p.m. and stay until they hear from me. Did you get all that?" he asked. "Yes sir, I will have Dr. Zuckerman and Dr. St Johns at the hospital at 4pm and I am on my way to get Mrs. Scully," she said. "You are fantastic Kim. I will be heading for Mrs. Scully's now. Mulder is already in route. Wait there until Mulder shows up. He should be there soon the way he drives," Skinner said. "Yes sir," she said and hung up. He then placed a call to Mrs. Scully. "Scully residence," Maggie answered. " Mrs. Scully this is Walter," he began. "Have you found her yet Walter?" Maggie said hopeful. "Not yet ma'am but from our suspect says she will be returned at your house this evening. I am having my secretary take you out of there and Mulder and I with a little help from Agent Gilmore and friends will hide in the house waiting for her. I want you at my office just in case something happens," he began. "Walter who has Dana?" she asked afraid to find out. "Mr. Waltos said they had her. Who ever they are?" he said. "Do you think it is the same people that took her before?" she asked suddenly terrified. "I am afraid so. But they told Waltos that she would be returned tonight so I don't know what is going on," he said hoping to calm her but not knowing how. "Alright Walter. I will be at your office. But do try to be careful. This is my home," she said. "Not a problem, Mrs. Scully. Oh, Mrs. Scully when things calm down can I talk to you in private?" he asked. "Sure Walter, what is it about?" she asked. "I don't really want to talk about until Dana is home and safe," he said. "Alright then, by," she said and hung up. He called Mulder again. "Mulder," he said sounding relaxed. "Mulder, everything is set up. Agent Gilmore will be at Mrs. Scully's house. Kim is going to be taking Mrs. Scully to my office to wait. I need you to go directly to her house to make first contact and secure the house until Gilmore can get there," Skinner said. "Not a problem sir, I am about 45 minutes away," Mulder said. "How. Never mind I don't want to know. I told Mrs. Scully you were coming," he told him. "No problem. I'll see you when you get their sir," Mulder said. "Do me one favor Mulder, be nice to Gilmore I know you two don't get along but for Scully's sake please be nice," Skinner said. "If I have to," Mulder said and hung up. Skinner turned on his radio. He slid in his Time2 CD by Journey. He started listening to them in college. A friend of his went to Berkley and sent him 8 Tracks of them. He really didn't start liking them till Steve Perry joined the band in 77'. He started singing with them in one of Steve Perry's first song Lights. He was driving along remembering all the fun and hard work he put in at U of T. He had changed so much since then. He didn't know what to think. When he was near Dana it all changed, he was the way he was then. He had been dating Sharon then. In fact when he got the job at the FBI he had asked her to marry him. But that was ancient history now. He had Dana. He wanted her to be his wife now and didn't know what to do. He was scared that she would be in worse shape than last time she came back. He almost went nuts last time. Mulder just beat him to it. He had to keep Mulder in check or it could have turned into a really bad situation. He always thought that Dana and Mulder had something going on, especially after her return. He jut was never sure until they got involved. He had been with Dana for 2 months. He knew she loved him and he loved her. Now he just had to make this all work out if he was to marry again. Not that it would be soon, probably a year or so, hopefully. Before he knew it he was getting off the highway near Maggie's house. He drove down the street looking for his agents. He looked at his watch 3:30. He was surprised he made such good time but it was a holiday. He parked a block from her house as not to crowd the front of her house. "AD Skinner, we got everything ready," Agent Gilmore started. Skinner got out of his car and popped the trunk to get his vest out. " Mrs. Scully out of the house?" Skinner asked. "Yes sir, she left with Kimberly several hours ago," Gilmore stated. "Where is Mulder?" he asked. "He is inside talking to her now," Gilmore replied. "Very well let's get into position. We don't have an exact time on this. How many Agents do we have?" he asked. "We have 8. I made sure we had a change over incase they ran late," Gilmore said opening the door. They went into the house and got situated. He had two agents take up positions in the hedges on either side of the house. He also had two agents in the upstairs windows. Mulder and himself were in the windows downstairs. And the wait began. He had everyone fitted for earpieces earlier and had everyone check in every 20 minutes on rotation. As the sky grew dark, everyone started to get restless. He ordered change over at 9pm; he didn't want his agents getting tired or sloppy. He knew Mulder and himself had too much at stake to back down. Agent Gilmore was in the bush on the left side of the house when the van came down the street. "Skinner, van coming down the road approximately 15 miles per hour. Color black, no plates, and no lights," Gilmore said trying to get a better view of the van. "On your toes people this may be it," Skinner said getting anxious himself. The van door opened and they pushed her out of the side and sped off before anyone could fire a shot. Gilmore was the first one to her. "Get an ambulance. She is unconscious, she has a pulse and is breathing shallow," Gilmore reported. "I got it," Mulder said calling. Skinner made a beeline for her. All 8 agents were surrounding Scully and providing cover for her until the ambulance came. Skinner knelt down beside her. She was still wearing her nightgown. "Scully, can you hear me?" Skinner asked suddenly panicked. "Scully, wake up." He pulled her head into his lap and started smacking her cheek. Nothing. He checked her pulse again. It was slow but steady. 'Probably drugged,' he thought. The ambulance arrived in 4 minutes. Skinner sent everyone else to do the paper work. "Mulder I expect you to meet us there with Mrs. Scully," Skinner directed. "Yes sir," Mulder said as he took off in his car. The medical team put her into the ambulance and tried to push Skinner out. "Sir we have to get her to the hospital," the EMT said. "I am going with you now and I am her boyfriend. If you have any other questions I can have the Director of the FBI give you a new job sweeping the streets of Washington. Are we clear?" Skinner asked with all the fury he was feeling. "Get in then, we don't have a lot of time. Tell me her personal stats and brief description of what she has been up against," the EMT said tying not to look intimidated. Skinner gave him a full run down on the past few days The ride to the hospital was typical. Skinner held her hand while the EMT did his work taking vitals and trying to figure out what was wrong with her. "General this is Ambulance 359, we have a female, age 34, FBI Agent, vitals indicate patient is under sedation of a chemical nature. Type unknown. Any instructions?" the EMT advised. "Ambulance 359 this is General start an IV with glucose drip. 12ml per minute. Advise if patient regains consciousness or any other problem arises. Estimated ETA?" General said. "ETA 8 minutes. Ambulance 359 out," the EMT said and started getting the materials for the IV started. "Sir, could you allow me one moment please?" the EMT asked. Skinner gave him her arm. They arrived at the hospital and Dr. Zuckerman and Dr St Johns met them at the Ambulance door. "What is her status?" Dr. Zuckerman started. "No change Doctor," the EMT stated. "Walter, I hope you don't have first hand knowledge that I am going to be needed here?" Gloria said. "Gloria, I am not sure that is why I asked for you to be here just in case," he said sadly. "Walter you are going to need to stay here," she said as they wheeled her into the room. Walter went to the hospital entrance to wait for Mulder and Mrs. Scully. He didn't have to wait long. Mulder and Mrs. Scully bounded from the front entrance. "Is she alright, is she hurt, where is she?" Mrs. Scully screamed all at once. "They are examining her now. Come with me," Skinner and Mulder lead her to the examining room. Dr. St Johns came out first. "Mom, how are you?" she asked seeing her there. "Don't worry about me, what about Dana?" Maggie asked desperately. "Don't worry Dana is going to be fine," she started pulling the three of them to the waiting room. "Dana has been through some kind of surgery. We don't know what yet but we are looking. She wasn't raped, that I can tell you," she said knowing this was probably the reason she was called. "Thank God," Walter said with a sigh of relief. "They are moving her to X-ray now to see if they can figure it out. She was given a strong anaesthetic. She will regain consciousness soon. Walter you can talk to her then if you want to ask her any questions," she said. "I believe she would want to see her mother first," Walter said. "OK that is fine," she said. "Maggie come with me," she said. Walter saw Maggie and Dr St Johns walk toward the recovery room. He was worried that they did some other operation on her to make her more alien. With the cancer gone, who knows what else they did to her. "Mulder how's Mrs. Scully really doing?" he asked. "She is doing better than the last time. She says this time things will right all the wrongs," Mulder said not knowing if she was right or not. "We'll see," Skinner said. He started to pace, waiting for Maggie to get back. He looked at his watch 10:30pm. 'How much longer,' he thought. "Walter she wants to see you," Maggie said coming out of her daughter's room. "Thanks Mrs. Scully," Walter said practically running into her room. "Dana," he said opening her door. "Hey, from what I hear we had a pretty bad 4th of July," she said groggily. "Yeah, but I promise to make it up," Walter said sitting on her bed. "What happened?" she asked. "You were taken out of bed by Det Waltos and his brother Fred Someone had you for over 24 hours. We are not sure whom because Mulder killed Det Waltos this morning 13 hours before you were dumped out of a van in front of her mothers," Skinner said looking down. "I am sorry I let this happen to you. I don't know why it happened," he said almost in a rage. He got off the bed and started pacing the room. "Walter, I don't ever want to hear you say that again. You couldn't know that. They may have drugged you," she said, trying not to sound too groggy. "How do you know? How would I ever know? If there was anything in my system it is out now," he said. "Walter." she began. Her mother, Dr. Zuckerman and Dr. St Johns interrupted her. "Alright. Now that we are all here-" Dr. Zuckerman started. "Uh, Dr. Zuckerman can we have Mulder come in?" Scully asked. "Sure," he said opening the door. "Mulder, come in here please." "Thanks," Mulder said taking a seat by Skinner. "Alright. Now we have a couple test results back that we wanted to discuss with you all. Dana, we do know you have had a surgery. We are not completely sure on what it is. However, we do know that it involves your reproductive organs. Namely your ovaries. Dr. St Johns," Zuckerman stated handing the explanation over to his colleague. "Dana, you came to me after your abduction and we did a complete work up right?" she asked. "Yes of course and we determined that I was sterile. That they had taken all my eggs," Dana said hesitantly. "Well, I repeated the same battery of tests. You have been implanted with different ovaries. These ovaries are of the same blood type and DNA sequence. They are essentially yours except, they have been cloned. You essentially have the egg complicate of a 13-year-old female," Dr. St Johns said. Dana looked at Gloria, then to her mother, then to Walter, and then to Mulder. "Gloria you are saying I can have children now?" she asked not trusting her ears. "Yes Dana, you can have children till you are 70 at the rate your going," Gloria said with a big smile on her face. "Congratulations Dana," everyone started to hug and cry. Dana didn't know what to think. Walter saw this as his chance to have the children he had always wanted. Maggie always wanted a house full of grandchildren. Mulder saw this as his only opportunity to be an active uncle. "Gloria, is there anything else?" Dana asked. "No, you are perfectly healthy with all the tests we have conducted so far," she said. With that the two doctors left the room. The four of them sat there looking at each other not knowing what to do or what to say. "Mulder why don't you keep Scully occupied for a while so I can talk to Mrs. Scully," Walter said. "Not a problem," Mulder said scooting his chair next to Scully. Walter and Mrs. Scully left into the hallway. "What was that about?" Scully asked. "Don't know. So, when do you want to start getting into trouble with me again?" he asked with a smile on his face. "Mrs. Scully please have a seat," Walter began. They sat at a bench outside of the hospital. "I know you have never approved of me with your daughter, but I love her. I want to marry her. I know this is sudden but I have lost her twice and I don't want to wait any longer than I have too. She may not be there if I wait," he said looking at her. "Why are you asking me?" she asked skeptically. "I can't ask her father, I can't ask her brother's because I haven't met them and she hasn't let me talk to them. I only want what is best for her and I believe that is having enough respect for her family as I do her to ask for her hand in marriage," he said getting more nervous than he wanted. "Walter, welcome to the family. Now the only test you have with me is Fox. If he says it is ok then it is fine with me. I always thought it would be him who would ask me to merry her," she said. "Thanks Mrs. Scully," he said with a big smile. "Call me mom," she said. "Here is the ring," he said pulling a small box out of his pocket. The ring was a small gold band wrapped with a silver rope and a ¬ cut diamond. "Oh Walter she is going to love this," she said looking at the ring. "I sure hope so. Well shall we pop the question?" he said with a smile. He held out his hand and escorted her back to Dana's room. Maggie walked into Dana's room. Fox and Dana were sitting on her bed talking about a case he had looked into. "Fox, Walter would like to talk to you for a minute. I think it is business," she said. "Oh, thanks mom," he said. "Dana, lie back sweetie. You need your rest," Maggie said. "Mom, what did Walter and you talk about?" Dana asked. "You'll find out soon enough dear," Maggie said. "Don't think you two will be keeping me away from work for very long," she said. "Mulder, I wanted to talk to you for a moment," Walter began hesitantly. "Ok," Mulder started not knowing what was going on. "I want to ask Dana to marry me," Walter blurted out. "I see, and mom told you to ask me didn't she?" Mulder asked. "Yes she did," Walter said uncomfortably. "I am glad to give you my blessing. I knew this was coming but I didn't think it would be this soon," Mulder said. They shook hands. "Let me see the ring," Mulder said. Walter pulled it out. Mulder opened the box and saw the ring. "Oh my, she is going to love this. What about the FBI?" Mulder asked. "Well I happen to be friends with the Director and we are working on it," Walter said. "Well let's see what she has to say." They walked in and Maggie was sitting on the side of the bed talking with Dana. "Dana, I think we need to have a talk," Walter said. "Come on Fox, let's leave these two love birds alone," Maggie said taking Fox's arm and heading out the door. "Dana, we have been through a lot lately and I need to know if you will always be by my side," Walter began. "Walter we may have our differences and problems but I think we can make this work," she said. Walter pulled the small box out of his jacket for the last time. "Dana Katherine Scully, would you do me the honor of being my wife?" Walter asked opening the box. Dana stared at the box unmoving. Slowly she found the strength to take the box from his hand. She looked at the ring and looked at Walter. Tears started to pour from her eyes. "Oh Walter. It. It's beautiful. Is this what you really want?" she asked. "Yes Dana, I really want you to be with me. I have only felt like this once and I was afraid. I don't want to be afraid to be with you. I just want to be there for you. I want you to be there for me. I want to have a family. Please tell me you want this too," he said getting really nervous that she was going to turn him down. "Yes Walter, yes," she said throwing her arms around him. He pulled away and put the ring on her finger. "Well, I heard a yes, how long do I have to wait for more grandchildren?" Maggie asked with a smile on her face. "Well mom, we got a few problems to figure out and a wedding to plan first," Walter said with a smile. "Mom look," Dana said with tears in her eyes. "I've seen it. I knew you would like it. He did do it proper you know. He asked me and then Fox for you hand in marriage," Maggie informed her only daughter now. She looked at Walter and the tears started again. "Oh Walter," she said giving him a big hug. Walter's phone began to ring. "Skinner," he said trying to be his normal grumpy voice. "Walter, this is Ralph. Is Agent Scully going to be ok?" the director asked. "Yes sir she is. I am with her now. Do you want to talk to her?" Skinner asked. "Yes I would," Ralph agreed. "Dana, it is Director Edwards. He doesn't know about our engagement," Skinner advised. "Yes sir, what can I do for you?" Dana asked. "Agent Scully, I know Walter has told you that I am reviewing all records since you two started dating. I am happy to say that you two have kept up your professionalism and I am glad I don't have to separate you yet," he said. "Sir what are you trying to tell me?" Dana asked not knowing if he gave them his blessing or not. "Well Agent Scully I know my wife is going to hate the idea of you with Walter since she loved Sharon and all, but I am giving you two my blessing," he said. "Thank you very much sir. I am sure Walter would like to talk to you now. Good by sir," she said handing the phone back to Walter. "He gave us his blessing," she whispered to him. "Yes Ralph," Walter said holding the phone back up to his ear. "Well I told Agent Scully that I approve of you two. I can back it up too. Even though you have yelled at Mulder more than usual from what Kim has told me. I guess that is to be expected. I want to have you two over for dinner when she gets better ok," he asked. "Yes sir. We'll be there," Walter said and hung up. "Well, we just got invited to go over to the Directors for dinner," Walter said. "I take it you two got the official nod?" Mulder asked. "Yes Mulder we did," he said putting his arm around his fiancée. The End |
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Date: 15 08:20:10 GMT Subject: RUBICON III (1/2)
Title: Rubicon III Summary: Skinner and Scully pay the piper. Author's note: This story is written in Mulder's point of view. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed writing this. I am guessing on the address of Mrs. Scully. Blossom is a city I made up. Margaret Scully's Home "Oh, it's you. Mom said I have to let you in," Bill Scully said letting Mulder into his mother's house. She had a lengthy discussion with Bill and Charles about treating Mulder and Walter. She had told them if there were any incidents involving spats of any kind with either of them she would throw them out of the house and she didn't mean Mulder or Walter. "Nice to see you too Bill," Mulder said entering the house. He smelled the pie baking and went straight for the kitchen. "Hi mom, what do you have for me today?" Mulder asked peeking his head into the kitchen. "Fox, darling come on in," she said. "Are Dana and Skinner here yet?" he asked trying a cookie. "Not yet dear, they should be here soon. I just hope Bill and Charlie give poor Walter a better time than they did you," she said sadly. "I am kinda hoping that they at least give him a little flak," Mulder said with his patented grin finishing off his cookie. "Now Fox, be nice," she started when the doorbell rang. "Well, that should be them, everyone else is here," Maggie said. They walked toward the door and heard Dana introducing Skinner to her brothers. "Mom can we talk?" Bill asked as soon as she joined them. "Let me greet your sister and then we'll talk," she said. "Dana, Walter I am so glad you could make it. There is a punch bowl and a cooler with beer in the dinningroom help yourselves. Dana dear, will you help me in the kitchen as soon as you get settled?" Maggie asked. "Sure Mom, I just want to introduce Walter to Tara and Matthew and I will be there," she said taking Walter into the dining room. Maggie took Bill into the back porch. "Alright Bill what is wrong with Walter?" she asked knowing it could only be about one thing. "He is too old for her and he is her boss. Mom it is bad enough when she hung out with Mulder so much, now him," Bill argued. "William Scully Junior, I cannot believe I heard you say that. Your sister loves that man. I don't care if he is old enough to be my father. You will behave yourself or you can go back to Nevada. Do you understand young man?" Maggie said sternly. "Yes mom," he said and went to find Tara. Maggie was just about to enter the kitchen when she heard Dana, "You two better keep you hands off those cookies or mom is going to get Bill on both of you," she said sarcastically. "Now I know both of you have some explaining to do on why I have only one dozen cookies left," Maggie said entering the kitchen after a quick cookie count. "Uh- Mom- Hi, you said I could have some cookies," Mulder tried to explain. "And you Walter," she scowled. "I needed the sugar rush to keep up with your daughter?" Walter tried with a smile. "Alright, both of you out of my kitchen. I expect both of you to be on your best behavior. I have already warned my boys that if any fights break out today you will go home," she said sternly. "Yes mom," Mulder sighed. "Yes Mrs. Scully," Walter said following Mulder out of the kitchen. "So sir, when are you and Scully going to tie the knot?" Mulder said really wondering when he was going to lose his partner. "Well Mulder I really don't know. One question though, why does Mrs. Scully get to call you Fox and no one else?" Walter asked. "Well to be honest, I always thought I would be her son-in-law and I guess it never really bothered me," he said thinking about it. "Listen, Mulder, I never want to come in between what you and Dana have. You are the two best agents in the bureau and Director Edwards knows it. He knows you will keep Dana and me in line if anything else. He wants to protect the X-Files as much as I do," he said pulling a beer out of the cooler and getting one for Mulder. They went out to the porch and sat on the swing. Mulder knew it was probably the safest part of the whole house if he and Skinner were going to make it till dinner. Mulder was unsure why Skinner was trying to be so nice to him. They had never really been friends. Hell, he had even shut him out after the incident with the prostitute. Maybe being around Scully has changed him somehow. He had noticed since they had started dating that some major changes were going on. He was friendlier, but busted his chops as soon as he stepped one inch out of line. He also noticed Dana was also more open. He liked seeing the changes in Dana, but he would have liked to be the one who brought them on. "Come on you two, dinner is ready and it is freezing out here," Dana said sticking her head out the front door. "We are coming," Walter said getting up and holding the door for Mulder. They all sat down to dinner. "Bill would you do the honors of saying grace?" Maggie asked. "Sure mom," he began, "Thank you Lord for the food we are about to receive. Thank you once again for bringing our family and friends together. I am thankful that we have had a blessed year, Dana being able to have children, Tara being pregnant, again, and Charlie starting his life over here in Annapolis. We have had our sadness and our joys this year. May next year will be more blissful. Amen," Bill concluded. Amen was said around the table. Bill quickly carved the turkey as everyone passed one dish or another around the table. They ate, talked and laughed. Soon Maggie and Dana were clearing the dishes. Tara went and put Matthew to bed as the rest of them gathered in the familyroom to watch sports and relax in the atmosphere Maggie guaranteed would be friendly. Finally, after all was done, Maggie and Dana came in and joined them. Dana nodded to Walter as she walked into the room. "Everyone we have an announcement to make," Walter began as Dana joined him, "We have set a date for the wedding. We picked Valentines Day next year." Everyone was overjoyed, except Bill of course. "Mulder, I would like you to be my best man," Skinner said shaking his hand. "I'd be honored sir," was all Mulder could say. "Bill, Dana and I have something to ask of you," Walter started. "Bill would you give me away?" Dana asked. Bill just looked at her then to him and back to her. "Bill, are you ok?" she asked. "Yeah, I'm ok, I just wasn't expecting that. I didn't think you would want me to," he said. "Bill, I will tell you one thing right now. Dana has told me time and time again how important her family is to her and I want to be apart of that family. It was a toss up on who the best man and who would give her away," he said. "Well Walter, we may get along yet," Bill said shaking Walter's hand for the first time. Maggie saw the interaction between her son and her future son-in-law and finally decided it was time for Walter to call her mom. "Walter can we talk?" she asked. He nodded and went with her. "Well, I guess I should count my time with you, eh Scully?" Mulder asked. "Why do you say that?" she asked not understanding what she meant. "Well, after you marry Skinner I am sure you will be transferred. Right?" he asked. "No Mulder, I am not leaving you. I already talked to Director Edwards and he agreed that I should stay with you. Walter is getting promoted to Associate Deputy Director in March. By the time we get back, he will be starting his new position and we get to harass a new AD," she said confidently. "Well, when did you guys find this out?" he said a little more angry than he should have been. "Don't worry Mulder, I know more than you know and everything is going to be fine," she said rubbing his arm and started to talk with Tara. Mulder slid his way out the door to the porch again. He sat for a while and contemplated everything that was happening. It was all so fast. What next, he thought, a little Skinner crawling around? He had lost the love of his life and was going to be the best man at her wedding. What next, he wondered. The door opened. He looked up and Charlie had come out. "Hey I wondered where you ran off to. Isn't too cold out here for you?" he said shivering. "I didn't notice," Mulder said. "Ya know, I just got divorced. Me of all people. Two kids and a wife down the drain. Mom about had a fit, us being catholic and all. I love Shelly and all but it just wasn't meant to be," he said. This confession brought Mulder out of his reverie. "I didn't know you got divorced. I thought it was annulled," Mulder said surprised. "No, divorced. Hey, since your pretty much part of the family, do you want to hit the club scene with me this weekend?" Charlie asked trying to help. "I guess so, why not," Mulder said feeling a little better. Go out with Charlie and pick up some chicks. That could improve anyone's outlook on life. Mulder set a time and date with Charlie and went home. He didn't even say anything to Mrs. Scully. He drove home not knowing what to do next. He had lost so much this year. He finally gave up on Sam, Scully had accepted Skinner's proposal, and he had to figure out what he was going to do with the ring he bought for Scully. He always thought that they would be together. Who knows one-day things will look up, he thought. Charlie went into the house after Mulder had left. He wasn't sure what he was going to tell his sister. "Dana, can we talk?" he asked her. "Sure, Charlie," she said leading him into the kitchen. "What's up?" she asked. "Dana, did you know Mulder is in love with you?" he asked bluntly. "What do you mean? He is my partner," she said shocked that he came right out and said it like that. "Well, I know you know he cares for you but he was really depressed when he left," Charlie explained. She just stood there with her mouth wide open. She didn't think what her announcement might do to him. "I'll be back," she said heading for the phone in the den. "Mulder," he said answering his cell phone. "Mulder, where are you?" she asked trying not to sound worried. "I am pulling up to my apartment why?" he asked. "You are supposed to be here. Mom is going to be mad you didn't say goodbye to her. I am hurt you didn't say by to me either," she said getting angry. "Scully, I just have a few things to get done," he said and hung up. She just sat there not knowing what to do next. Things had been going so well. How could she have missed the fact he was in love with her? Mulder walked into his apartment and found a note on his floor. Fox, Who the hell was Joseph? He pulled his phone. "Scully," she said answering the phone. "Hey it's me again. Do you know anyone named Joseph?. "No, why?" she asked. "Well I got a note here from a Joseph and he wants to meet me at 8 tonight. So do you want to go with me?" he asked. "Sure, I will be there a hour early in case there is something fishy going on," she assured him. "I will meet you at your house at 6:30, Ok?" he asked. "Sure, bye," she said and hung up. Mulder paced around his apartment wondering who Joseph was. He had only met one Joseph and he was gone. He had died while they were at Oxford. He looked at his watch and it was time to meet up with Scully. The drive over was a bit of a bear. Even in DC the traffic was horrible on Thanksgiving. He reached Scullys late as always. "Mulder you are 15 minutes late," she huffed. "Sorry, traffic," he muttered. "Mulder you are going to be late for your own funeral," she said with a smile. "Well you know me Scully," he said with a smile on his face. "So can you think who this is?" she asked. The drive took 30 minutes. They chit chatted about the wedding, Christmas, and vacations. When they arrived they scoped out the area and decided to split up. Scully took up a position on Constitution and 22nd Street. She had a direct view of the memorial. Mulder waited on the steps. He figured he had a birds eye view of anyone who came near. Promptly at 8pm, he saw a boy walk up to him. "Fox Mulder?" he asked. "Yes, are you Joseph?" Mulder asked. "Yes, I have wanted to meet you for years. Mom talks about you all the time but for some reason she is scared of you. She told us that she met you a little over a year ago," he said sitting down next to Mulder. "Your telling me that Samantha is your mother?" Mulder said unsure of what the boy was telling him. "Yes, you're my uncle," he said. Mulder threw his arms around the boy and started to cry. Scully saw the exchange and started to walk towards them. When she saw them hug she started to run. "Mulder, are you ok?" she asked not really wanting to break up the two men. "Scully, I would like you to meet my nephew Joseph, Sam's son," he said still crying. Scully's mouth dropped at his words. "Nice to meet you Joseph. My name is Dana Scully," she said starting to cry herself. "Does your mother know where you are and what you are doing?" Mulder asks. "No she doesn't. She is not ready but the only thing she told me is that grampa said that you worked for the FBI. I traced you from there. Thank god for public records," Joseph said. "Have you eaten yet?" Scully asked. "Not since this afternoon," he said. "Well let's go and get something to eat before you have to get home," Mulder said. They left and went to a coffeehouse. On the way, Scully called Walter and let him know what was going on. They agreed that he would come and pick her up at the coffeehouse. When they arrived, Joseph called Sam to let her know that he was all right and would be coming home at 10:00. Dana let them be to talk while she waited for Walter. "So why did you come looking for me?" Mulder asked. "Fox, Mom loves us and has told us what was going on last year and she has been talking more and more about you since. I am sure she wants to see you and I knew I would have to bring you two together," he said scarfing down a bacon double cheeseburger. He had the same eating habits as Mulder. "Well, when I knew Sam she was always a little hesitant about making decisions," Mulder said reflecting back. "Well, I turned 15 a couple weeks ago and had to know more about my family," he said finishing off his burger. "Well, I went to Oxford. I have a BA in psychology. I was the top of my class at the Academy. I have been working with Dana for almost 6 years. She is getting married in February," Mulder said sadly. "I take it you don't want her to marry who she is marrying?" he asked. "Not really. I always thought we might-" he started. "Mulder," Skinner started as he walked up to them, "if you need any time off, take it.. "Thanks sir, but I don't think I will be taking much off since it is a holiday weekend," Mulder explained. "Well, if you need any just let me know. I don't think you and Scully have any cases coming up soon," he finished. "Take it easy Mulder. If you need to talk later I will be at my apartment," Dana said. "Nice to meet you Dana," Joseph said. "Joseph, this is Walter Skinner he also works at the FBI and is my fiancé," Dana finished. "Nice to meet you sir," Joseph said shaking his hand. "Nice to meet you too Joseph," Skinner said and walked out. "Mulder I will be alone so don't worry about interrupting anything, ok?" she said. "I will," Mulder said. She walked out and headed to Walter's car. They talked for a while longer. Mulder let himself open up to Joseph and Joseph opened up to him. Joseph told Mulder about his mother's nightmares and odd sleeping habits. Mulder told him he only lets his mother and Dana's mother call him Fox, but that he could call him Fox if he wanted. Joseph knew then that they would be friends. "So Dana what do you think of all this?" Walter asked Dana in the car. "I don't know Walter. It just seems too convenient. I guess I am just being paranoid. I don't know," she said. "Well not to change the subject or anything but did you tell Mulder that we are planning to have the wedding on a boat?" he asked half laughing. "No I haven't. I don't have the heart. I know how bad he gets seasick," she said laughing with him. "Don't forget we have to be at mom's at 11 tomorrow to start planning," she said. "Oh I wont. When do you want me to pick you up anyway?" he asked. "Well you could come by at 8 to wake me up if you want," she said slyly. Rubicon III (2/2) Disclaimers in part 1. Mulder took Joseph to his friend's house and he told Mulder he would call him to see him again. Mulder left feeling that for once since his sister left things were going to be ok. Meanwhile, Joseph was back at his house talking with his sister. "Katlin, you would love him. He is just like mom but sadder," he said, all excited. "Well what does he look like? Is he nice? Does he have a girlfriend or a wife? Well?" Katelin asked, always full of questions, as an 8-year-old should. They went on and on until their mom came in and found them both awake. "Fox Joseph and Katelin Marie, you two should be in bed. Why are you two up?" she asked not angry but a little upset. Her children had woken her up. "Mom if I tell you, you will be mad at me," Joseph started. "I promise not to be mad," Sam said crossing her heart. "Well-I found someone today," he said hesitantly. Sam looked into her son's eyes and knew whom he was talking about. "We will all talk about this in the morning. I suggest you two get some sleep. Grampa will be here tomorrow that I am sure. Joseph off to your room. Good night sweetheart," Sam said giving Katelin a kiss and tucking her back in bed. She checked in on Joseph and kissed him good night and went into the livingroom. She sat down in her favorite easy chair and called her dad. "Yes," he answered groggily. "Dad, I am sorry to wake you but I needed to talk," Sam said sadly. "That's ok sweetheart, what is on your mind?" CMS said nonchalantly. "Joseph has talked with Fox," she said not really knowing how her father was going to take this. "Really, well I guess we are lucky he hasn't really pushed you to reach out for this long. If you hadn't told your family about this you wouldn't be going through this," he said sorry for his daughter. "I know but I have always been honest with Brian and the kids," she started, "I guess I just should have of expected this. Will you come over in the morning?. "Sure sweetheart. I will be there about 9 is that ok?" he asked. "That's fine dad. Thanks again, bye," she said hanging up the phone. Boy this was a long night. She went back to bed. This would be the last night things would stay the way they were. Everything would change tomorrow. Even though she wasn't ready, her children were ready. She had always done what was right for them. Now she would sacrifice lost memories and emotions to include her old life with her new. Mulder called Scully when he got home. "Scully," she answered the phone. "Hey it's me," he said. "Well how'd it go?" she asked a little worried. "Well he is great. It was like I had never felt before. Sitting there with my flesh and blood so to speak and not feeling part of a conspiracy. It was the best," he said trying not seeming too excited. "Well, I am so happy for you. I hope you and Samantha get together soon," she said not really trying to push him off the phone but she was tired. "Well, thanks for being there tonight. It really meant a lot to me. Good night," he said taking the hint. "Good night Mulder," she said. This was one the best Thanksgiving he had had since Sam left. There was no doubt in Mulder's mind about that. National Air and Space Museum 10:00, 12 December 98 Mulder paced around the entrance of the NASM trying to remain calm. Sam was meeting him for the first time in over a year. She had agreed to meet him at Joseph and Katlin's insistence. Mulder looked at his watch again, 10:02. She was late. `Scully would say that tardiness ran in the family or she isn't coming,' he thought. "Fox," Sam yelled from the cab she was exiting. Mulder descended the stairs and meet her at the cab. "Look at you. You look so beautiful," Mulder commented coming up to his sister. "Thank you Fox, I think," she said nervously. "Sam thank you for meeting me here. After spending time with Joseph and Katlin- I am just glad that you came so I could talk to you again," he said hopeful. "Fox, Brian would like to meet you too. We have been married for 16 years now and he is a wonderful man. I am not sure he is happy with you spending time with the kids but Dad said that you wont quit until you talked with me," she said. "I am sorry you feel pressured into spending time with your brother," Mulder said starting to get frustrated. "Fox, I am not here to antagonize you. I am here to reach out to you like I said. I may hear my husband complain about you, but my children want you in our lives. I have never been able to deny them much. I would like you to come to dinner tonight if your available?" she asked. "I will be there with bells on you can count on that," he said almost ready to jump for joy. "Do you have a girlfriend Fox?" she asked. "No I don't right now," he said a little puzzled. "Daddy told me last year you were dating your partner," she said a little hesitant. "Scully, no we never had a relationship. We are just friends. In fact she is getting married on Valentines Day next year," he said. "Well, I guess I should get you my address and be going. We are going to be eating at 5:30. If you want to come by early feel free," she said. "Well what time should I show up?" he asked not wanting to intrude. "Come by about 3 so we can all chat and get aquatinted," she said. "Well I will see you then," he said. "Ok, I am sure the kids are going to be thrilled you are going to the house today," she replied. "Do you want me to drive you home or want me to hail a cab?" he asked. "No, I am meeting Brian at the café down the street for lunch," she said. "Well- Can I have a hug?" Mulder asked. "Sure," she said moving closer to him. They hugged for a while and went their separate ways. Mulder was half way home when his phone rang. "Mulder," he said happily. "Mulder, it's me. We have a case. Meet me in Skinner's office as soon as you get here," she said. "Are we going anywhere?" he asked nervously. "No yet, it is in Blossom, Va. It is about 2 hours northwest of here," she said. "I have a dinner date with my sister and her family tonight, that is why I wondered," he said. "I take it things went well this morning?" she asked. "That they did Scully. I will be there in 15 minutes," he said and hung up. Skinner and Scully were in his office discussing the case. It was a VCS case but their progress was nominal. They have had no luck. They had found six bodies. All of them were female, natural blond hair, blue eyes, and over weight by 58% body fat. They all had blunt trauma to the back of the skull. When the toxicology came back, they all had massive doses of Dexfenfluramine hydrocloride and chloroform. The amount of Fen-phen was approximately 2000mg in each victim. The victims were all found in dumpsters. They were naked and had been bathed meticulously. Fortunately for the families, none of the victims were raped. Unfortunately, all the data is consistent of an obsessive-compulsive nature. Mulder arrived and confirmed the VCS's profile thus far. "This individual is probably a white male, between 18 to 35, and has been victimized. A female family member who is similar to the description of the victims may have molested him as a child. Have you done a review of the autopsies yet?" Mulder asked. "Yes I have. I found that the blunt trauma has been prior to the injection of the drugs given. Apparently the victims were injected above the hairline directly into the brainstem with the combination of drugs. The bathing and cleaning was done post mortum. It is the conclusion of the Forensics department that the cause of death was over dose of Fen-phen and chloroform," she stated. "Kim, come in here please," Skinner asked. "Kim I want you to get a car for Mulder and Scully they will be leaving for Blossom in the morning," Skinner directed. "Mulder I want you to have a nice evening with your family so we can get a fresh start in the morning," Skinner said. "Well, I guess there are some perks for having one's partner engaged to the boss," Mulder said. "Mulder," Scully said in a stern tone. "Mulder you are a glutton for punishment," Skinner said gruffly. "Alright I know where I am not wanted. I will have my phone with me in case anything happens between now and morning," he said and left. "So what time are we supposed to meet your mother to get with the wedding coordinator?" Skinner asked. "We have to be there at 1:30 which gives us an hour till we have to leave. So what do you want to do till then?" she asked seductively. "Let me see," he said with a big grin. Mulder was driving to Sam's trying not to be nervous. This would be the first meal they have shared in over 25 years. He pulled up in front of their house. It was a tan colored 2-story house. There was a big yard and from the looks of it a swing set in the back. Katlin burst out of the house as soon as she saw him pull up in front of the house. "Uncle Fox," she screamed. He was thankful he had changed into jeans, a sweater, and his denim jacket. She plowed right into him and they both fell to the ground laughing. Joseph came out with his dad to greet them and get them into the house before Katlin could rough him up more. "Hello Fox, I'm Brian," he said. Brian was a tall man, which would explain Joseph and Katlin's height for their age. "Hello, I am glad to finally meet you," Mulder said shaking his hand. "Come on in, Sam is in the kitchen cooking up a storm," he said happily. Brian had been worried about meeting her long lost brother. He was worried that he would be there for their money. Brian worked for the research division of a prosperous computer company. He and Sam were very well off. There was nothing she could want that he couldn't provide. Sam came out of the kitchen when she heard all the squeals and chatter in the hall. "Hello Fox, welcome to my home," she said walking into the livingroom. "Sam I don't think I will ever get over the fact that you're here. For a while now, I thought I was doomed to be by myself," Mulder said. "Why do you say that? When I talked to you last you said mom was still alive. I figured you and her were still on good terms," Sam asked. "No, the family was never the same after you were taken or left however you remember it," he said a little embarrassed. "What do you mean Fox?" she asked. "So," he said looking at Joseph and Katelin, " how are you doing in school?. "We are doing fine," Joseph said. Sam realized the tension created by bringing up his childhood after she was taken. "Fox, can we take a walk? There is plenty of time until dinner," she said starting to wonder what had happened. "Sure," Mulder said hoping this was to catch up and not to pry to deeply with his childhood. They donned their coats and walked out into the chill of fall. "Fox, I didn't want to get into any details in front of the kids but, what happened after I left?" she asked. "I really don't want to talk about it," he said trying not to sound harsh. She stopped walking and looked at him. "Fox, I need to know what happened to you after I left. From what I remember you were always happy and now you look like you have been to hell and back," she said trying to draw him out. "It would take a long time to tell you what you want to know. I don't really want you to know. It won't change who I am but may cause you some guilt. I don't want to start our relationship on a sour note," he said taking her arm and started walking again. "So do I have any other relatives?" he asked with a smile. "Well I do have a sister-in-law. Her name is Claire she is in the Navy, a Chief Warrant Officer. Her husband died a month after they were married. He was involved in that chopper accident at Camp Pendleton. She was 6 months pregnant with Jason Jr. at the time," she said sadly. "Well I hope she is doing ok without him. I know how hard it is being a single parent and being a single parent in the Military must be really hard," he said. "Yes, it has been really hard for her but she is doing much better. She is very close with all the people she works with and we have offered to take Jason in case she has to go on additional duty or transfer somewhere overseas," she said. "Wow, that is really nice," he commented. "Anything for Claire. She is so sweet. I love her to death," she said. They were in front of the house and the kids came bounding out as they saw their mom and Mulder come up the drive. "Hey Fox, do you want to play a video game with me?" Joseph asked. They played one of the newest video games and Fox let Joseph win a couple of times. They ate soon after and retired into the livingroom afterward. "So do you expect Claire to visit some time soon? I would like to meet her," Mulder said. "Actually Claire will be coming by tomorrow. She lives in Pimmit Hills. It is about an hour away," she said. "Well, would you- never mind I am going to Blossom in the morning. I will try to stop by but I will be working a case tomorrow," he said sadly. He was eager to meet someone else that was related to him and wouldn't resent him for losing Sam. "Well I am sure she will be here late. She usually stays until 8," Brian offered. "Great, I will try to make it," Mulder began, "Well I got to get out of here. I got to get up early." Sam got up and walked Mulder to the car. "Drive safe Fox and I hope to see you tomorrow," she said. "Thanks for letting me in your life again. It really means a lot to me," he said seriously. "I think it was time. Oh and you are invited to come for Christmas. Everyone is going to be here," she said. "Is your father going to be there?" he asked. "Yes he is," she said a little worried. "Well, we will see. I love you Sam," he said kissing her on the cheek. "Love you too Fox," she said as he got into his car. She waved from the porch with Brian. Maggie Scully's Residence "Great you're here," Maggie said escorting Dana and Walter into the house. "This is Marabell Griffen. She is the wedding coordinator I have hired," Maggie continued. "Pleased to meet you two. I am glad to be able to help with your wedding," Marbell said. She hugged the young couple. "Nice to meet you too," Dana said. "My pleasure," Walter greeted her. "Well, I have a list of the usual people," she said escorting them to the diningroom table, where all of her folders and photos were. "Here is my recommendation. For the chartered yacht, I recommend Sarah Williams. She is the Captain and owner of William's Yacht Services. I know you two are of different faiths, your mom told me, I recommend Reverend Matthew Ryan. He is non-denominational. Brenda is the best at the catering business. She owns and operates her catering service. The florist I have in mind is Dawn's Florist. She has great wedding packages. You will love her. She is a really nice elderly lady. Now for your photograph and video needs, I recommend Sherman and Claire Thomas. They are the best I have worked with. They have also done ship board weddings so I know they wont have any problems. For your wedding cake, it is almost a must for you to get Colleen Miller. Boy what she can do with a cake. I am sure you two are going to want limousines right," she asked. They looked at each other getting overwhelmed and nodded. "Ok then, Ryan Smith is really reliable and he can do it in split shifts for you so you don't spend an arm and a leg. Dana for your wedding gown and all the other dresses- do you want an original or one off the rack?" she asked suddenly. "Well I was hoping to get a original," Dana commented stunned at the knowledge she possessed off the top of her head. "Well then Kyra is great at coordinating all the dresses and the tuxedo's. Now for the last item, since I am sure you two already have your rings, right?" she asked looking at both of them. "Yes we do," Walter said taking some of the pressure off of Dana. "Well then the DJ is the only thing left then. What kind of music do you want?" she asked looking at them all. "Well we were hoping for traditional wedding music for the wedding and a variety for the reception," Walter suggested. "Well then I would-yes here it is Jacob Valentine, he has a large variety. He can help you pick a selection since we will be out to sea. I'm not sure how he would do on a ship but we will see," she said. "Would anyone like something to drink?" Maggie asked know Dana needed a break. "Sure mom. I'll help you," Dana said taking the hint. Marabell and Walter agreed also. Walter looked through her multitude of pamphlets and brochures. He looked at all the ones she had recommended and agreed with her on her choices. "Good, I am glad someone is willing to go with my recommendations. Some people just don't know where or where not to cut corners to make a complete wedding the perfect wedding," she commented. "Good because I want our wedding to be perfect. That is why I am for all of this. I was married before and we had a nice wedding but it was far from as romantic as I would have wanted it to be," he said sadly. "Well then Walter we are going to make this the best wedding I ever coordinated. I promise," she said. Dana and Maggie came back with the drinks. They talked about colors and table decorations. Dana never thought that there would be so much to plan for. They had two months and it didn't seem like they were going to have enough time. After all was said and done, it was 6pm and they had set up appointments and arranged fittings. Walter and Dana were exhausted when they were through. Maggie kissed them good bye and they were on their way back to Dana's apartment for dinner. "Walter," Dana started in the car, "are we going to live through this?. "Anything for you sweetheart," Walter said grinning.
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