*Author's note: This is totally unrealistic, and yes, I *know* it couldn't have happened given the X-Files chronology that Carter has created, but I had to write it. I hope you do enjoy it. It's a romance and it's also an alternate universe story. NC-17 rating, my first, so please no flames (constructive criticism would be a good disguise, if you gotta send 'em) because I'm not really sure what I'm doing here. Just a warning. All comments to: lazydark@aol.com *Disclaimer: X-Files, Dana Scully and Fox Mulder all belong to Chris Carter, Fox Broadcasting and Ten-Thirteen Productions. No infringements intended. *** The X-Files Dance With Me (NC-17 - Mild) By Charleyne Hall ----- University of Maryland Dormitory Friday June 21, 1987 The dorm room was sweltering hot and Dana Scully had almost had enough. She sat before the computer trying to type out a thesis for the next upcoming assignment, while worrying about a million other things she should have been doing. She'd drawn a complete blank and needed to take a rest. She pushed back the chair, getting up and stretching. Her clothes clung to her, the sweat dampening them. She shrugged her shoulders, trying to ease the stiffness in them. She moved away from the dreaded computer, knowing that another glance at it's screen right now would make her completely insane. She groaned as she looked at the time. Only seven thirty in the evening, she had plenty of time to call Liz Matin back and tell her that she'd changed her mind, that she would like to go out for a beer and chat. She sighed, looking at the forbid computer screen and nodding her head. she thought, heading for the bathroom. she smiled at the words. Of course, she did really owe herself a break, but she wasn't sure that it was good idea. she thought, stripping down and turning the hot water of the shower on. After a quick shower to rid herself of the sticky heat and to freshen up, she called her friend using the phone in the dorm room. "Hi, Liz. It's Dana, yeah.. I know. Listen, would you mind if I took you up on your offer?" she asked, nodding as she listened. "Great, I'll meet you there, then." she paused, listening to her friend talk to someone in the back ground. The voice was distinctly male. She smiled. So Liz had finally met a man? She listened, then Liz was back on the line. "Okay, see ya in a few." she said, putting the phone down. She sighed. A man. Now that was definitely a nice thought. Dana just wished she'd had someone significant in her life too. She sighed, walking to her tiny closet and picking out a nice pair of black pants, a white blouse and a black blazer. She pulled out a pair of pumps to go along with the outfit, then rethought and fished out a pair of loafers that would go rather nicely instead. She tossed the towel over the back of the computer chair and slipped effortlessly into the clothes that were so familiar. She smiled at herself in the mirror, applying a layer of lipstick and a little rouge to redden her cheeks. Her auburn hair was the next thing on the list, drying it was sometimes a task in itself. After drying her hair, she was ready to leave. She picked up the blazer, then looked at it. It was too hot to wear it, so she left it on the edge of the bed. She spotted her purse, frowning that she'd almost forgotten it, then looked once more in the mirror. she thought. ----- Dana Scully walked into the bar. It was absolutely packed. She looked around, searching for her friend, Liz, while taking in the sights. There were a great deal of male bodies around and she found herself glad that she'd decided to come out. She felt a little out of place, but then saw a bunch of men in business suits in a corner booth and decided that she shouldn't worry. If they were wearing business suits, she could wear spiffier clothes than normal too. Soon she spotted Liz--actually, Liz had spotted her and was waving her hands wildly in the air--and casually walked through the crowd to a booth in the corner. Liz smiled happily, nodding at Dana as she sat down. "Dana Scully, I want you to meet Jason Jacobson." Liz said, a wicked grin crossing her face. Dana looked at the man beside her friend and was surprised. He was very handsome, however he seemed a little on the geeky side. He struck her as someone that Liz wouldn't dream of touching, but Dana guessed that she might have misjudged her friend, completely. She smiled warmly at him, offering her hand across the table. He shook it gently, as if afraid to hurt her, and smiled. "Jason, pleased to meet you." she said. "Dana, I've heard a lot about you." he said, putting his arm around Liz's neck and offering her a quick smile. Dana looked away from him, raising her eyebrows at Liz. "Good things, I'd hope." she said, eyeing Liz, who seemed to have a permanent grin on her face. "Oh, they're definitely good things." he replied. "Well then, I guess I should be scared." she said, and the three of them shared a laugh. Scully felt some of her previous anxiety melting away. She was startled by a young waiter, who came up beside her and placed a napkin and glass of water beside her. "Can I get you anything to drink, Miss?" he asked, a pleasant smile on his lips. He hardly looked old enough to be serving alcohol. "Uhm, no--" "She'll have a scotch on the rocks." Liz broke in, earning a semi-worried glance from Dana. "Actually, make that a double." "Liz!" "Stop, or he'll be making it a triple next!" Dana immediately shut up, giving Liz a mock icicle glare. The waiter nodded and walked away, holding the tray on his spread palm while weaving in and out between the people who were packed into the bar. "Thanks." Scully mumbled. Liz winked at her, then turned to Jason, puckering her lips. Dana almost laughed out loud. It was just so out of character for Liz. Scully thought about her friend. Liz Martin was a law student at the University of Maryland where Dana was currently doing a residency in Pathology. She couldn't honestly remember how they'd met but it didn't matter much now. They had quickly clicked, their personalities complimenting each other, while drastically contrasting, making them good friends in short time. Liz was one of those California Sunshine girls with shiny blond hair and a body that was built specifically for a bikini, yet she never made Dana feel uncomfortable in her presence. Even her blue eyes, which were similar in colour to Dana's, held a special glow. She was the type of friend that you could only earn if you were honest because despite her appearance and attitude, Liz Martin was one of those people who was picky about her friends. She didn't want someone who would simply backstab or abandon her in a time of need. She wanted her friends to be dependable and independent, which Dana definitely was. As she sat across the table from her now, Dana wondered why she'd at first thought that Jason wasn't Liz's type. It was probably more that he wasn't her type, so she'd imposed her own opinions when judging him, which she realized now, had been a bad thing to do. After all, they looked perfectly happy together and Dana was definitely happy for them. "Here you go, miss." the waiter said, managing to startle her again as he set down a glass of scotch, supporting ice cubes. "Thanks." Dana said, glaring at Liz again. "Drink up, Miss Scully. We're going to have you so hammered tonight that you won't even be able to stand up!" Liz said, bringing her own beer to her lips and taking a long swig. Jason nodded in agreement, his eyes twinkling. Dana shrugged and picked up the glass but just as she was about to take her first sip, the waiter appeared again, this time with a message. "Excuse me, miss?" he said, a cocky smile coming to his lips. Dana set the glass down and turned to him, smiling. "Yes?" she asked. "There's a man over there that wished me to give this to you." he said, pressing a piece of paper down on the table and holding it there until Dana took it. She glanced to where he had been pointing and noticed that it was the table where the men in business suits were seated. All of them were looking her way. She felt a deep blush coming to her cheeks as she thanked the waiter, and looked uneasily at Liz. "Well? What is it?" Liz asked, her eyes wide. Dana reluctantly opened the paper and scanned over it. Liz nodded to her, indicating that she was waiting to hear. Scully's cheeks turned even brighter red than they had been before. Liz laughed. "They want to know..." Dana began, then she slid the paper across the table to Liz, as she stood up and headed for the women's room. Behind her, she could hear Liz whistle and she frowned. She had been surprised by the message and very embarrassed-- she didn't like the idea that it had come from a whole table of men who had obviously spotted her the minute she came in the door. She found the room easily and pushed the door open, hoping the room would be empty. Of course, that was silly, considering how busy the bar had been. She wedged herself into the room between a bunch of other women who were patiently waiting for a stall, then pushed her way out at the other side of the line, in front of the sinks. She checked her image in the mirror, then turned on the tap, gently splashing some of the cool water on her face. She imagined steam rising off it, she had been blushing so badly. She sighed, wondering if she was ready to push her way out to rejoin Liz. She took a few deep breaths, then composed herself, ready to return to her table. However, when she exited the bathroom she looked to where they had been sitting and discovered that they had left. Her face flushing with anger, she walked over to the bar and sat on a stool. She didn't understand why they would have left, especially after that note. She was so angry that she could barely order a beer. She knew she was going to drink one now, because she needed it in order to calm herself down. Before she the waiter could even return, Dana was startled when a rather tall man in a suit sat down beside her. She flinched and tried to move over a stool but someone had occupied that spot too. Now she was trapped, the man in the suit smiled awkwardly at her. She looked over him and couldn't help but notice how handsome he actually was. His brown hair hung in his hazel eyes, looking as if he were almost trying to hide. She guessed his height to be about six feet, but she couldn't be sure since he was scrunched down in the seat. She turned away from him as the bar tender brought her beer. "Bartender, I'll have on of those too. Put them both on my tab." he said, causing her to look up again. This time she offered a smile of thanks before looking away again. "What's the matter, don't you talk?" he asked, his voice a dreamy tone she'd wanted in her fantasy man. Scully felt a flush coming to her cheeks as some of the anger and embarrassment returned. "Not after a note like that." she snapped, instantly regretting it as his smiled turned to a frown. "I'm sorry about that, actually. That's what I came over here for. I wanted to apologize for my colleagues. They're sort of drunk." he said, trying to explain. He finally shook his head, deciding it wouldn't work. As he started to get up to leave her to her angry state, Dana touched the arm of his sleeve. She didn't know why, but something about this guy drew her to him. She didn't want him to leave. "Wait, don't go. My friends took off on me and now I'm here all by myself. You might as well enjoy the beer you bought." she said, shrugging. He gave her an unsure glace, then slid back down in his seat. "By the way, my name's Dana Scully." she said, looking over at him. "Fox Mulder." he said, running a hand through his hair. He looked kind of shy to her, not at all like the kind of guy to send a note like that. Mind you she doubted it was actually him, After all he wouldn't be here apologizing if it had been. "Pleased to meet you, Fox." she said, picking up the beer and tasting the cool liquid on her tongue which had gone dry. "Mulder will be fine." he said, smiling. He picked up his beer as well, then slid off the chair. "Shall we go sit in one of those booths?" he asked, indicating that they get away from the watchful eyes of his friends. She nodded, grateful to be away from the intense scrutiny. ----- =========================================================================== From: LisdXPhile@aol.com Date: Wed, 3 Jan 1996 12:22:05 -0500 Subject: NF> Dance with Me 2/2 *NC-17* ************* Dance with Me by Charleyne Hall Part two "So they call you *Spooky*?" Dana laughed. "My god, that must be terrible." "It's not so bad. You get used to it after a while." he shrugged, looking at her from across the table. She could feel herself getting lost in his gaze, knowing that she would regret the minute he left her to return to his friends. They'd spent nearly two hours in the booth just talking and getting to know each other. Scully found herself telling this strange man a lot of things that she wouldn't normally reveal to stranger. She supposed that the alcohol she'd consumed was probably helping with the fact, knowing that she was fairly close to going over the edge. "The FBI.. That sounds so... Incredible." she mumbled, feeling the buzz in her brain. He nodded, looking deep into her eyes, which were now partly closed. She knew he thought she was falling asleep, but she really wasn't. She was trying to hide the feelings that had crept up on her, unexpectedly. "It is." "I think I'll join..." she said, allowing her voice to trail off dreamily. He looked over her with a concerned expression. "Dana, would you mind if I drove you home? I think you've had enough." he said, questioning her ability to drive. Of course he was right, if she didn't get a ride with him, she'd at least have to spend an extra twenty dollars to get a cab home, then another to come and get her car in the morning. She sighed, nodding. She should really be getting home. "Sure." she said. He stood up, pulling out his wallet and putting a few large bills on the table. Dana eyed them for a moment, then attempted to slide out of the booth. The minute she reached her feet, the alcohol kicked in and she nearly fell over. Of course, Mulder was quick to catch her, putting his arm around her waist and draping her arm over his shoulder. "I guess I'm in worse condition than I thought." she whispered. He nodded, a grin turning the corners of his mouth. They made it out to his car, an FBI issue Ford Taurus, without much event. Scully didn't realize how drunk she really was, until she began to hiccup. Mulder helped her over to the car, helping her to balance against the side of the car as he unlocked the passenger door. After that, he helped her in, buckling her securely in. She allowed her arms to linger around his neck a little longer, before he pulled away to shut the door. He slid into the drivers side just as Scully released another bout of hiccups. She covered her mouth, in an attempt to be lady-like. Unfortunately it wasn't working. Finally she resorted to staring out the window, trying to hold them in. She didn't notice as Mulder reached into the back seat and pulled out a paper bag, inflating it. He held it just behind her head, then slammed his first into it, causing the to burst and create an incredibly loud bang. Scully yelped and turned quickly around. "Want me to puke everywhere?" she asked, pushing a few stray strands of auburn hair out of her eyes. He shook his head, no. She nodded once. "Then you better not try that again!" she said, relieved that it had actually succeeded in getting rid of her hiccups. ----- University of Maryland Dormitory 11:04 PM The car rolled to a stop in front of her dormitory building. She didn't want Mulder to leave, but she couldn't think of a good excuse to keep him with her either. She sighed, feeling for the handle for the door, yanking it. It popped open and she tried to look casual as she got out of the car, but she it wasn't going to work. She ended up slumping against the back door, grinning wildly as Mulder came around. "Need a hand?" he asked, casually offering her his arm. She nodded, feeling a little helpless but unable to stop herself. She knew that she liked having his strong arms around her, knew that she wouldn't let him away so easily. "Thank you. Such a gentleman." she mumbled, as he escorted her to the door of the dormitory. "Won' t you come in for some coffee?" she asked. "Coffee? Mmm, sounds good." he replied, a small twinkle in his eye. She leaned on him as she unlocked the door. She managed to walk to the door of her dorm room on her own, Mulder trailing behind to make sure she was fine. She swayed a little, but was able to slip the key into the lock on the room. She let them in, looking at the other rooms within her section. Most of the doors were closed and presumably locked. She reached the tiny kicthen which served for the other three room mates in the dorm room, smiling when she noticed a small pot of coffee which had been sitting on the warmer. She shakily took two mugs out and put them on the counter, but Mulder wouldn t let her pour the coffee. "Here, let me do that". he said, taking the pot out of her shaking hand. As he did so, his fingers brushed hers and she felt as if an electric shock had passed through her body. "We don t want you to drop it and wake up all your room mates." he said, a mischievous grin eclipsing his handsome face. Scully couldn t look away, and finally Mulder noticed that she was staring at him. "What?" he asked. "I'm sorry, it's nothing..." she said, shaking her head. He smiled, picking up the two cups and walking over to her. "Where would you like to sit?" "How about in my room? It's a little more private there." she said, nodding towards a closed door, and holding out her key ring. He nodded, smile growing with the minute. Dana returned the smile, wondering why she had a strange man in her dormitory and what he was really there for. The fact that he was an FBI agent made her feel a little more comfortable, but something about him just made her want to be near him. ----- Dana Scully sauntered into her room after him, allowing the door to close and lock automatically. She looked about her room. The only thing out of place was the black blazer which she'd thrown on her bed before leaving. She sighed, looking at him. He stood against the wall, holding the two cups of coffee. He looked like a dream, standing there and waiting for anything to happen. He didn't move but stared into her eyes, as if he were only a statue. Dana wanted to feel him touching her body. Wanted to feel his lips on hers. She couldn't believe her feelings for this stranger. It went against everything she'd ever believed she'd wanted in a relationship. She'd sworn to herself never to have a one night stand, but this man - Fox Mulder - was completely differant. He melted all of her beliefs away, leaving her exposed and feeling vulnerable. He dropped his gaze, looking at the blazer on the bed. She moved towards him, her head clearing incredibly fast. She took a few steps, then stopped as he looked up at her again, then held out a cup. She smiled, taking it graciously and cupping it in both of her hands. She idly took a sip then watched him for a while longer. He walked around her room, studying it, as if he were a child in the zoo seeing each animal for the first time. He came to a stop in front of the stereo system, scanning the CD's. Then he picked one out and slipped it into the player, meanwhile Scully watched him. When he turned to face her, his eyes were gleaming. He set his coffee cup down on the shelf beside the stereo, then walked toward her, his face completely blank. Dana blinked, trying to decide what he was up to. He reached out, taking her cup, then returned to the stereo and put it down beside. In one swift motion, he'd pressed the button and also gently taken her hands in his. Soft music began to flow from speakers, at a level that wasn't loud enough to wake her neighbours. Dana sighed, as he looked deep into her eyes. "Dance with me, Dana." he whispered. She nodded, unable to speak. He pulled her to him and wrapped his arms around her waist, hands pressed lightly against her lower back. She rested her head on his chest, feeling the warmth of his body through his shirt. For what seemed an eternity, they swayed back an forth to the soft music, hoping that the moment would never end. She listened to the steady beat of his heart, feeling as though she belonged in his arms. "Mulder..." she said, quietly testing his name on her tongue. He leaned forward and gently kissed the top of her head. She sighed, hugging him even tighter. Her mind clouded over again and she leaned back, looking up at his face. He gazed down at her, a new fire in his eyes. His face drifted towards hers and he lightly kissed her lips, half expecting her to jump back and slap him. When it didn't happen, he closed his mouth over hers once more and this time the kiss lasted, each feeling the urgency of it. Scully couldn't pull away, even if she had wanted to. She was drawn in by his faint cologne and the feel of his soft lips. Fox Mulder was definately having an effect on her. From that moment on, things began to swirl into a blur for Dana. She wasn't even sure how it'd happened, but somehow they had moved to the bed, clutching each other close. He gently eased her back, pushing the blazer aside. His fingers worked gently at the buttons on her blouse as his lips caressed her neck. She moaned, the electricity from his fingers causing her whole body to react. Clothes were a small obstacle which they quickly leapt over, his tie and jacket falling to the floor beside the bed. His pants strewn over the bed post. Dana didn't notice what had happened to her blouse; she didn't care. All she wanted was to feel his hands all over her body, his electric touch to punch through the alcohol haze that was hovering over her brain. His hands found her breasts while he kissed her stomach just above her navel. She couldn't speak, couldn't utter a sound. She wanted more than anything to have him inside her. She wanted him to make her scream. Her hands roamed over his chest, slowly inching down his stomach and finally coming to rest on his hard shaft, rubbing it gently. He moaned, straddled her thighs and pulled his head up to look into her eyes. She nodded, unable to speak, wishing only to have their bodies meld into one. His mouth found hers again and he gently pushed himself into her. Finally an agonized moan escaped from her lips as they began to move, bodies mashing together in perfect harmony. It occurred to her that he wasn't wearing any protection, but she knew she didn't care. The moment was perfect, like nothing she'd ever experienced before. Dana Scully found that she didn't care about anything as she dug her fingernails into his shoulders, arching her back as they both came to a climax in perfect harmony. Fox Mulder uttered an cry, then slumped forward, spent. He pulled gently away from her, rolling over in the bed. He leaned on one elbow, gently stroking her hair with his hand. He touched her cheek, wiping away the tears that had begun to stream down her cheeks. "Incredible." he whispered. She nodded, still unable to speak, the tears streaming non-stop. Dana was surprised at the amazing speed and sheer intensity of their joining. She had never experienced anything quite like it, and little did she know that she probably wouldn't ever again. She allowed him to pull her head to his chest, still stroking her auburn hair, and gently fell to sleep, dreams of him causing a smile to cross her lips. The last thing she remembered was the smell of his sweat and cologne mixing. Such a sweet smell. ----- University of Maryland Dormitory Saturday June 22, 1987 9:12 AM Dana Scully awoke to the soft sound of music. She took a deep breath, smelling his cologne still. She rolled over, to find the bed empty. She sat up, pulling the covers around her body, looking around the room. His clothes were gone and there wasn't a trace of him left. She felt like screaming. How could she have let him get away? Of course, she should have guessed that he'd be gone in the morning. She cursed, pushing herself out of the bed and pulling her flannel robe over her body. She glanced at the blazer which had been thrown to the floor, bending and picking it up. Beneath it, another article of clothing caught her eye. His tie. Fox Mulder had left his tie. He wouldn't be back for it, she could see that. She was saddened at the thought of not having him touch her again, but she knew that somewhere along the way, she would meet Fox Mulder again and on that day, they would realize something that neither would ever want to admit. They were perfect for each other. ----- FBI Headquarters X-Files Division Offices March 7, 1992 Special Agent Dana Scully walked into the office carrying her purse over her shoulder. She saw him, sitting at the light table examining slides, looking just as sexy as she remembered. He wore thin framed glasses and his hair had been cut shorter than before. It no longer hung in his eyes the way it had that night. She still had vivid memories of that night, but the fact that she hadn't seen him since then had ceased to bother her any more. She stood behind him, waiting for him to notice her presence. He did not look up, but continued playing with the slides. "Isn't it nice to be finally so highly regarded." he said, startling Scully. She wasn't even sure he would know who she was. He hadn't looked up yet. She held out her hand, and he swivled in his chair. Finally he looked up and a look of utter shock crossed his face. "Dana Scully." she said, a smug grin in place. It was evident that he did remember who she was. Perhaps he just didn't recognize the name. "So you're *that* Dana Scully." he mumbled, turning back to his slides. "I've been assigned to work with you, Fox Mulder." she said, leaning against the wall beside the table. "Really? I was under the impression that you were sent to spy on me." "Spy? Oh no. When I met you, I seem to recall saying that I was going to join the FBI. What I don't remember is your telling me why they called you Spooky. The funny thing is that all through my training at Quantico, all I ever heard about was *Spooky Mulder*. I didn't have the nerve to mention that I'd met you before." "Is this going to be a difficult relationship?" he asked, looking up at her from beneath his glasses. "Difficult? Only as difficult as you make it. I mean, I've learned a lot of things since my residency at the University. One thing I've learned is never to *trust* a man." she said, giving him an odd smile, one that he'd dreamed of for so long. She could tell just by looking at him that he hadn't expected to ever meet her again, let alone to be assigned to work with her. "I've learned a lot of things too. Especially to *trust no one*." he muttered, pulling off his glasses and rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Well, I'm looking forward to working with you." she said, shrugging her purse off her shoulder and gently pulling it open. She reached in and he watched in silence. "By the way, I believe this is yours." she said, tossing his tie at him. "Looks like you had better taste back then." she said, pushing away from the wall and walking towards the door. She threw one more look at him, before walking out into the hallway and leaving a very bewildered man behind. ----- The End? Who knows. *End Note: Well, there it is. A little abrupt at the end, and Scully was a little bit of a bitch, but that's okay because he shouldn't have left her the way that he did. Anyway, comments are appreciated and also, you won't ever be seeing another NC-17 from me, because as mild as this one was, it's not my cup of tea (as I mentioned -before I was completely converted by my HBS Kirsty- in Another). I think I'll stick to regular X-Files stories but my current theory is: "You never know until you try, right?" Thanks for reading. lazydark@aol.com From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: Dance With Me - The Sequel Date: 11 Jan 1996 20:43:20 GMT *****Dance With Me -Sequel***** ******YOU CAN FIND THE ORIGINAL "DANCE WITH ME" AT THE OHIO STATE ARCHIVE OR E-MAIL ME AND I WILL SEND IT TO YOU!!!!!!!!!!********* TIME SPAN - ALTERNATE UNIVERSE, FIRST SEASON DISCLAIMER - Sculder and Mully are owned by Chris Carter and Ten Thirteen Productions. No copyright infringement intended. MY NAME IS MARYKATE AND I'M A FAN FICION-AHOLIC - Please write me at robinson@htp.net. This is my first story of its kind that I have written and would like to know what *you* think. BASIS - My friend Charleyne sent me a piece called "Dance With Me" that dealt with Mulder and Scully meeting while she was in medical school. With the ending so ripe for a story I told her that if she didn't write a sequel I would. Guess what? I did. I suggest you read "Dance With Me" first. It would make *a lot* more sense. DEDICATION - Thank you to Charleyne Hall for writing "Dance With Me" (Great Story) and allowing me to write the sequel. * * * * * **Dance With Me - Sequel** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net FBI Headquarters X-Files Division Offices March 7, 1992 Her hair was darker than he remembered, the blonde hair now dark auburn. She was five years older, five years since that night in her dorm room. He didn't forget. His photographic memory wouldn't allow him. He stared as she held out her hand. "Dana Scully." she said, a smug grin in place. She obviously remembered, too. "So you're *that* Dana Scully." he mumbled, turning back to his slides. Ignoring her seemed the only way to make her go away. It was too painful seeing her again. Too many memories of that night. "I've been assigned to work with you, Fox Mulder." she said, leaning against the wall beside the table. It hit him. She didn't look him up, deciding to bash him for that night. He knew he was being assigned someone to cast doubt on the credibility of his work, they sent her. What irony. "Really? I was under the impression that you were sent to spy on me." "Spy? Oh no. When I met you, I seem to recall saying that I was going to join the FBI. What I don't remember is your telling me why they called you Spooky. The funny thing is that all through my training at Quantico, all I ever heard about was *Spooky Mulder*. I didn't have the nerve to mention that I'd met you before." "Is this going to be a difficult relationship?" he asked, looking up at her from beneath his glasses. "Difficult? Only as difficult as you make it. I mean, I've learned a lot of things since my residency at the University. One thing I've learned is never to *trust* a man." she said, giving him an odd smile, one that he'd dreamed of for so long. She could tell just by looking at him that he hadn't expected to ever meet her again, let alone to be assigned to work with her. "Well, I'm looking forward to working with you." she said, shrugging her purse off her shoulder and gently pulling it open. She reached in and he watched in silence. "By the way, I believe this is yours." she said, tossing his tie at him. "Looks like you had better taste back then." she said, pushing away from the wall and walking towards the door. He watched as she gave him one last look and leave his basement office. "Damn." He thought of the situation and swore again. "Damn." What were the odds of being partnered with a woman with whom you had had a one night stand with five years ago? "Practically zero." It was just his luck. Mulder could never forget that night. He and his "buddies" were celebrating his profile helping catch Monty Props. They had stopped at a bar in Baltimore, where they had gotten drunk and sent an obscene message to one red headed co-ed. He watched as she ran into the bathroom, embarrassed. After ushering the lushes out the door, he waited for the young woman to return so he could apologize. When she did it was like magic. They sat there, talking about nothing and everything. He found himself able to open up to Miss Dana Scully, soon to be M.D. They even spoke of Samantha's disappearance. He knew he shouldn't have taken up her invitation for coffee in her dorm room. It was too dangerous. But he found himself dancing with her, kissing her, making love with her until the wee hours of the morning. It was the most wonderful night. As he watched her sleeping he saw the mistake he had made. A young woman, inebriated, upset and confused. He had taken advantage of her. Unable to face her in the morning, he quietly left, taking only his memories of her. The tie rolled between his fingers. It must have meant a lot for her to keep it. He often thought of Dana in the past years. Did she blame him? Had she joined the F.B.I like she said she would? It looked like he was going to find out. * * * * * March 8, 1992 Scully stared at the piece of paper in her hands. "Meet me in my office." It wasn't signed, but she knew who it was from. Mulder. She quickly traveled the hallway to his office. Knocking, she heard Mulder call out and let herself in. "You wanted to see me?" "Yes." He motioned toward a chair. "Since you are now my 'partner' I thought you should know we have a new case." "What is it, Fox?" "Mulder. Anyway, " He flipped on the slide projector, "This Louisiana woman was found dead in a forest. No explainable cause of death but," Flip to another slide, "Two undistinguishable marks on her back." "It could be anything. Needle marks, mosquito bites, et cetera." "Another fact. Surrounding the marks was an inorganic substance." "Do you have a theory?" "Do you believe in the existence of extra-terrestrials?" "Logically, I would have to say no. Given the distances needed to travel from the far reaches of space, the energy requirements would exceed a spacecraft's capability-" He cut her off. "Conventional wisdom." "It doesn't seem like you have any at all." "When convention and science offer us no answers, might we not finally turn to the fantastic as a plausibility?" Furious at his indifferent and snide demeanor, she shot back, "What? Like you being a human being?" "My my, Dr. Scully has a mouth on her." Mulder watched her with interest. This was not the same girl he knew five years ago. "Sorry, Mulder. When do we leave?" "Eight a.m. tomorrow. See you bright and early." * * * * * Scully thought. First she had to meet with an extremely rude and dislikable Mulder, and then she had to spend the day tracking down a substitute to take over her Quantico class. It was seven o'clock and all she wanted to do was go home and take a long, hot bath. "Working hard, eh, Scully?" Turning, she found Mulder following her to the parking garage. "To keep up with you." He fell into step with her. "I was thinking maybe we could go and get a drink and...talk about some things." "Why, whatever do you mean, Mulder?" She looked at him innocently. "You damn well know why!" "Yes I do. How about Danny Boy's on New York Avenue?" "Fine. I'll follow you there." * * * * * He held the door open for her as they entered the Irish pub. Scully passed through the door way, her shoulder brushing his arm. The electric shock shook Mulder to his toes. Scully sat down at the bar and motioned to the bartender. "I'll have a club soda." "Beer for me." Mulder faced the woman to his left. "No spirits for you tonight, Scully?" "I want to keep my head clear for *this* conversation." She took a sip of the newly arrived drink. "What did you want to talk to me about, Mulder?" "That night." "What night are you referring to?" "Don't play games with me, Scully." He was fed up with this faked ignorance. "Five years ago I met you in a bar and we made love. Does any of this ring a bell?" "Vaguely. Funny, but I remember it being 'sex', not 'making love.' Otherwise, I don't think you would have left before I had awakened." His head dropped. "I'm sorry, Scully." "That's all you have to say? Sorry? You sleep with me and then up and leave?" She felt the pain rise, the same feeling she had that morning long ago. "No, that's not it." Mulder stared into her eyes. "I don't regret what happened between us. It was wonderful. And I screwed up. I was afraid and I left. But I want us to get passed it. We *need* to. As of yesterday, Scully, we are partners. If we are to work together we are going to have to fix this." The words rang true. "I know. But I don't know if I can trust you again." It stung. "Why? Because I left you? Because we slept together? That was another lifetime, another part of my life. I swear, Scully, I will *never* try to touch you, or hurt you, ever again." "I believe you." She saw the sincerity in his features, heard the sincerity in his voice. It was what had drawn her to him in the the first place. Sighing, she held out her hand. "I'll try if you will." His grasp was firm and warm. "We'll make this work, I promise." * * * * * They walked out to their respective cars. It was two in the morning, and the two had spent the night talking, talking about childhood, what had happened in the last five years, but studiously avoiding that June night. Mulder waited as Scully unlocked her car door. His gaze was attracted to her slim neck, her upswept hair. How beautiful she was. She turned to see her former lover staring at her. How handsome he was. Smiling slightly, she bid him farewell. "I had a good time tonight, Mulder. I think everything will be all right." "It will." He leaned in, as if to kiss her good night, but changed his mind and backed away. "I'll see you tomorrow." "Bright and early." Reluctant to break the conversation, she slowly climbed into her car and waited for him to pull out of the parking lot. As Scully watched his car speed away, she gripped the steering wheel tightly and banged her head lightly on the dashboard. It was still there, the undeniable attraction he possessed, his ability to turn her into a pile of molten lava with just a look. Long ago she promised herself that she would show Mulder that he was her soul mate, and her his. The promise he made and she made couldn't last very long with this force between them. But she would try. She at least owed herself that much. * * * * * From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW: Dance With Me 3 - Shattered Promises Date: 30 Mar 1996 19:45:24 GMT From: lazydark@aol.com (Charleyne Hall) Disclaimed in Part 1 ****** The case had been going exceptionally well. Fox Mulder hadn't felt better in ages. He most prided himself in the fact that he'd been able to keep his hands off the illustrious Dana Scully. She was a subject of pure torture for him, especially since that June night. Whenever he chanced a look in her direction all the memories of the night they had spent in her dorm room came flooding back. That night, he and a bunch of buddies had been sitting in a bar of Baltimore when she had walked in, then a resident pathologist. Her auburn hair had caught his eye. They had playfully sent her a message which ended up embarrassing her, sending her fleeing for the ladies room. Mulder had been waiting for her when she came out. He'd wanted to apologize. That had been five years ago. Things had changed drastically since then. When he discovered that she was to be assigned as his partner within the FBI, the tension began to build. Mulder was forced to make a pact that he would never touch her or hurt her again. The emotional wounds that both had been left in, after the one night stand they had shared, were freshly opened. Mulder wasn't even sure she'd forgiven him for leaving, the following morning, so long ago. His heart ached as he remembered the feel of her skin on his. Laying in the dark of the motel room, thinking about Dana Scully was not going to sooth him, though. A raging storm had cut the power to the little dingy motel and now he was forced to see by candle light. He stood up with the intentions of heading for the shower. He made his way into the bathroom and stripped down, wrapping a towel around his sleek, toned form. He tested the water, using the candle light to see, then shed the towel, stepping into the hot water. He ran his hands through his hair, pondering the case. Their first case. Young men and women were disappearing and reappearing, dead. The only strange thing about them were the two tiny red marks that were found on their lower backs. They were curious marks, for sure. He and Scully had spent most of the day on a trek through the woods, investigating the spots where the people had been found. It was a little unnerving. Especially those marks. He sighed, shutting off the water. He reached out, grabbing the towel and drying his hair. He rubbed vigorously at the dark brown locks. Satisfied that it was fairly dry, he wrapped the towel around himself once again and padded out into the room, looking for a suitable pair of boxers. He found a pair of grey ones, his favourites, and was just about to step into them when he heard a sharp knocking at the door. He sighed, running a hand through his damp hair. He took a candle and made his way to the door, throwing it open. Of course, he knew who would be there, peering up at him with her alluring, crystal clear blue eyes. Except her eyes held a new look. One which he hadn't expected to see from Dana Scully. They held the look of fear. His eyes left hers, as he realized that she was wearing only a terry cloth robe. Mulder's heart jumped. Had something happened to her? He decided to play the asshole. "What happened, Scully? See a ghost?" he asked. She looked up at him and winced. "I want you to look at something." she said, flatly. Her voice was calm. She'd managed not to betray the way she felt. He could see that. She swallowed and turned her back to him. She closed the door. She had begun to shiver. Before he knew it, she had lowered the robe away from her shoulders and he found himself looking at her creamy skin illuminated by the soft candle light. Scully awkwardly pointed to the two tiny red welts that were on her lower back, just above her buttocks. Mulder leaned forward to take a closer look. "What are they...?" she asked. Mulder did not answer, a grin plastered to his face. Her breathing changed, it was shallow and hard. "Mulder... what *are* they?" Mulder raised himself again, only to meet with her stare. "Mosquito bites." he said. Scully's eyes widened in a mixture of relief and panic. "Are you sure? Are you sure?" she asked. He chuckled. "I got about twenty of them myself out there in the woods. Look--" he was cut off suddenly as Scully pulled the robe around herself once more. She turned around so quickly and unexpectedly that when she grabbed him and embraced him, hyperventilating, he was shaken. He patted her back, feeling a little uncomfortable at her nearness. "Are you okay?" "Yes." she lied, releasing him. She looked at him, fear still apparent in her blue eyes. "I'm not sleeping in my room." "Scully--" Mulder said, noticing the delicious way the robe hung from her body. He was also aware of his own near-nakedness. "Mulder I can't!" she cried. "It's not a good idea." he said. She paused, eyeing him for a moment. She hadn't noticed, in her own fear, that he was only wearing a bath towel. Her breath caught in her throat. she thought. Of course, he was right. It wasn't a good idea. Both of them had made a promise that neither would touch the other. Scully began to tremble again, except this time it was not from fear. She gritted her teeth together and tried to direct her gaze away from his chest. It was covered in beads of water and lit faintly by the candle light. It was erotic. Scully sucked in a breath. "You're right--" she began but was cut off when his arm encircled her waist, pulling her to him. "Mulder?" she questioned, her eyes gleaming. "I can't keep my promise, Scully." he breathed. There was a tone in his voice. A sweetness that reminded her too much of that night in June. "You've gone and driven me over the edge..." he whispered, burying his face in her hair. She did not struggle, no matter how much she might have wanted to. It felt too good to be in his arms again. The minute his lips touched her neck she was gone. She plunged into a mixture of memories and longing for this man. "Neither can I..." ***** From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW: Dance With Me 3 - Shattered Promises Date: 30 Mar 1996 19:45:24 GMT From: lazydark@aol.com (Charleyne Hall) Disclaimed in Part 1 ****** The case had been going exceptionally well. Fox Mulder hadn't felt better in ages. He most prided himself in the fact that he'd been able to keep his hands off the illustrious Dana Scully. She was a subject of pure torture for him, especially since that June night. Whenever he chanced a look in her direction all the memories of the night they had spent in her dorm room came flooding back. That night, he and a bunch of buddies had been sitting in a bar of Baltimore when she had walked in, then a resident pathologist. Her auburn hair had caught his eye. They had playfully sent her a message which ended up embarrassing her, sending her fleeing for the ladies room. Mulder had been waiting for her when she came out. He'd wanted to apologize. That had been five years ago. Things had changed drastically since then. When he discovered that she was to be assigned as his partner within the FBI, the tension began to build. Mulder was forced to make a pact that he would never touch her or hurt her again. The emotional wounds that both had been left in, after the one night stand they had shared, were freshly opened. Mulder wasn't even sure she'd forgiven him for leaving, the following morning, so long ago. His heart ached as he remembered the feel of her skin on his. Laying in the dark of the motel room, thinking about Dana Scully was not going to sooth him, though. A raging storm had cut the power to the little dingy motel and now he was forced to see by candle light. He stood up with the intentions of heading for the shower. He made his way into the bathroom and stripped down, wrapping a towel around his sleek, toned form. He tested the water, using the candle light to see, then shed the towel, stepping into the hot water. He ran his hands through his hair, pondering the case. Their first case. Young men and women were disappearing and reappearing, dead. The only strange thing about them were the two tiny red marks that were found on their lower backs. They were curious marks, for sure. He and Scully had spent most of the day on a trek through the woods, investigating the spots where the people had been found. It was a little unnerving. Especially those marks. He sighed, shutting off the water. He reached out, grabbing the towel and drying his hair. He rubbed vigorously at the dark brown locks. Satisfied that it was fairly dry, he wrapped the towel around himself once again and padded out into the room, looking for a suitable pair of boxers. He found a pair of grey ones, his favourites, and was just about to step into them when he heard a sharp knocking at the door. He sighed, running a hand through his damp hair. He took a candle and made his way to the door, throwing it open. Of course, he knew who would be there, peering up at him with her alluring, crystal clear blue eyes. Except her eyes held a new look. One which he hadn't expected to see from Dana Scully. They held the look of fear. His eyes left hers, as he realized that she was wearing only a terry cloth robe. Mulder's heart jumped. Had something happened to her? He decided to play the asshole. "What happened, Scully? See a ghost?" he asked. She looked up at him and winced. "I want you to look at something." she said, flatly. Her voice was calm. She'd managed not to betray the way she felt. He could see that. She swallowed and turned her back to him. She closed the door. She had begun to shiver. Before he knew it, she had lowered the robe away from her shoulders and he found himself looking at her creamy skin illuminated by the soft candle light. Scully awkwardly pointed to the two tiny red welts that were on her lower back, just above her buttocks. Mulder leaned forward to take a closer look. "What are they...?" she asked. Mulder did not answer, a grin plastered to his face. Her breathing changed, it was shallow and hard. "Mulder... what *are* they?" Mulder raised himself again, only to meet with her stare. "Mosquito bites." he said. Scully's eyes widened in a mixture of relief and panic. "Are you sure? Are you sure?" she asked. He chuckled. "I got about twenty of them myself out there in the woods. Look--" he was cut off suddenly as Scully pulled the robe around herself once more. She turned around so quickly and unexpectedly that when she grabbed him and embraced him, hyperventilating, he was shaken. He patted her back, feeling a little uncomfortable at her nearness. "Are you okay?" "Yes." she lied, releasing him. She looked at him, fear still apparent in her blue eyes. "I'm not sleeping in my room." "Scully--" Mulder said, noticing the delicious way the robe hung from her body. He was also aware of his own near-nakedness. "Mulder I can't!" she cried. "It's not a good idea." he said. She paused, eyeing him for a moment. She hadn't noticed, in her own fear, that he was only wearing a bath towel. Her breath caught in her throat. she thought. Of course, he was right. It wasn't a good idea. Both of them had made a promise that neither would touch the other. Scully began to tremble again, except this time it was not from fear. She gritted her teeth together and tried to direct her gaze away from his chest. It was covered in beads of water and lit faintly by the candle light. It was erotic. Scully sucked in a breath. "You're right--" she began but was cut off when his arm encircled her waist, pulling her to him. "Mulder?" she questioned, her eyes gleaming. "I can't keep my promise, Scully." he breathed. There was a tone in his voice. A sweetness that reminded her too much of that night in June. "You've gone and driven me over the edge..." he whispered, burying his face in her hair. She did not struggle, no matter how much she might have wanted to. It felt too good to be in his arms again. The minute his lips touched her neck she was gone. She plunged into a mixture of memories and longing for this man. "Neither can I..." ***** From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW Dance With Me 5 - Decisions Date: 30 Mar 1996 19:53:01 GMT From: lazydark@aol.com (Charleyne Hall) Disclaimed in Part one Well folks, I promised I'd rewrite it and I decided to sit down and get my ass into gear! Anyway, this is Dance With Me 5. ***** Fox Mulder ran, oblivious to the slightly chilling rain that poured down upon him. He did not think of anything but driving the thoughts of Dana Scully from his mind. He had come close to showing her just how much he'd missed her and how much he loved her but it obviously wasn't a mutual feeling. He couldn't figure out why she didn't tell him about the mysterious Minette. He was just very glad that he found out before they made love for the second time. Lord knew he wouldn't be able to stop himself from loving her after he felt her flesh burning against his once again. It would be a difficult task even now but at least he had a reason. Mulder had been blindly running away from the hotel and now he found himself at the edge of the forest. He stopped, sinking to his knees and holding his head in his hands. He needed to think, to clear his head. He couldn't let his feelings for his partner get in the way of this investigation. He would have to accept the fact that she had another man in her life. he thought, then shook his head. He didn't want to think about it. He knew one thing for certain: Dana Scully was devious. Something about her attitude had changed drastically since that night. Something that made Mulder wonder just how many men had walked out on her the morning after. At that thought, Mulder cringed again. He couldn't help but blame himself partly for her attitude. Why should she have told him about Minette? Afterall, she had every reason to treat him like hell. Especially since he'd left her alone that morning, never to set eyes on her until a few days ago in his office. Had she purposely hunted him down in order to have some strange revenge? He was so lost in his own reveries that he barely lifted his head when the bright lights of an oncoming car shone upon him. He waited for the car to pass, but his stomach clenched into a knot as he realized that it was slowing. "Goddam it!" he cried, struggling to stand. He blinked back the tears and rain mixture that had begun to sting his eyes. Dana Scully slid out of the car, pulling her overcoat around her. She looked like a cross between the devil and an angel as she stepped into the illumination from the car lights. Mulder couldn't decide which was most prominent: the devil or the angel. He swallowed with some difficulty, but did not forget the anger which was seated deep in the depths of his heart, causing severe aching. "Mulder?" she called, watching him from where she stood. She slowly advanced, unsure of what to say or do. "Go away." Mulder said. He started to walk away. Her hand on his shoulder stopped him. "At least let me explain!" she cried, as he turned to angrily confront her. "What is there to explain? You failed to mention that you had a boyfriend, a steady one from what I gather. What is it with you? You've turned into a complete opposite of the person I once knew!" he cried, twisting to free himself from her steel grip. "I--" she stopped, wiping the rain away from her cheeks. Her hair was wet and clinging to her face. Rain was dripping from her nose and chin. It wasn't merely raining anymore, it was pouring. A suitable atmosphere considering Mulder's current state of mind. He was torn in half. "That's right. There is nothing left to say." he said, turning his back to her. "Mulder, don't walk away from me again! Please?" she cried, but he ignored her. "You walked away from me, Scully. Don't even think about twisting the blame to me. If Minette is so important to you, then I think that perhaps you should stay with him! I won't be a side dish." he said heatedly, crossing his arms across his chest and shaking with an uncontrollable grief and anger. He began to run again, knowing that this time she would not follow. He needed time to calm down and think this through. ----- Dana Scully cursed. She stomped back to the car but once she was inside, she couldn't find the strength to start the car and drive away. She couldn't believe Minette had called her while she was on a case. Not to mention the fact that he'd messed up any chance of anything happening between Mulder and her. In a fit of rage, Scully pounded on the steering wheel, successfully managing to exhaust herself. She sighed, hot tears creeping fresh trails down her cheeks and mingling with the leftover rain. She reached into her coat pocket and brought out the cell phone. "Minette." a sleepy voice said when the call finally connected. "Ethan, it's Dana." she said, trying to keep the anger from her voice. She didn't have much reason to blame it on him, it was her own damned fault that she didn't tell Mulder about him. Then again, he shouldn't have been making personal calls while she was on a case. "Dana, are you okay? You sound a little--" "What did you want?" she asked, cutting him off. It sounded bitter, even to herself. Why was she treating him like this? She had thought she was in love with him. Perhaps seeing Mulder again brought back feelings that she never thought she'd have to face again. "I--" he paused, as if taking in her tone, then cleared his throat and tried again. "I wanted to let you know that I'd be out of town for a few weeks. I didn't want you to come home and find me gone." he said and Dana nearly laughed. All this just to learn that he would be out of town for a few weeks. "That's nice." she said flatly. "When are you leaving?" "I'll be on a plane the day after tommorow. Dana, is something wrong?" he asked, his voice beginning to sound mildly suspiscious. "No, Ethan. Nothing's wrong. I'll see you when you get back, okay?" she said. She did not mention the fact that he probably wouldn't like to hear what she had to say when he got back. Especially if Scully was able to convince Mulder to let her make it up to him. "Okay. I love you, Dana. Remember that, okay?" he whispered in hushed tones. Dana cringed, almost repulsed by the words. She didn't know how someone she had thought she loved could make her so regretful. Something about Minette the past few days, since she had been reunited with Mulder, made her sick to her stomach. Maybe it was because he was a poor substitude for the true love she had been seeking. "Goodbye, Ethan." she said and disconnected the call. She couldn't bring herself to say those three little words. She wanted to save them for one man. Fox Mulder was the only man who would hear those words from her from now on. That is, if she could bring herself to say them again. She wasn't even sure he would listen. Of course, there was only one way to find out. ----- There. It may not fit too well with Part 6 cause I had to fit it between 4 and 6 so that it would also tie in to 7 and 8. Hope you enjoyed. Excuse any spellin' or grammar errors. I don't have a spell checker anymore! Laters Char (who's kinda pleased by this one) From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW - Dance With Me 6 - Confrontations Date: 30 Mar 1996 19:55:35 GMT *****Dance With Me Part 6***** TIME SPAN - ALTERNATE UNIVERSE, FIRST SEASON DISCLAIMER - Sculder and Mully are owned by Chris Carter and Ten Thirteen Productions. No copyright infringement intended. MY NAME IS MARYKATE AND I'M A FAN FICTION-AHOLIC - Please write me at robinson@htp.net. I would like to know what *you* think. BASIS - My friend Charleyne sent me a piece called "Dance With Me" that dealt with Mulder and Scully meeting while she was in medical school. With the ending so ripe for a story I told her that if she didn't write a sequel I would. Guess what? I did. I suggest you read "Dance With Me" first. It would make *a lot* more sense. DEDICATION - Thank you to Charleyne Hall for writing "Dance With Me" (Great Story) and allowing me to write the sequel. ***** Questions and more questions, but no answers. Dana needed to reach her inner depths, to search her soul, to find the answers she would need. One answer jumped out at her and smacked her in the face. She was in love with Fox Mulder and had been since that night five years ago. ***** **Dance With Me - Part 6** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net Mulder heard the knock on his motel room door, first faint, then more forceful. Pulling on his shirt, he made his way to the peephole. Seeing the person on the other side, he undid the security chain and let Scully in. "Mulder, I need to talk to you." "Talk, I'm listening." He leaned on the door, waiting for the words he hoped for: that she had ended things with Ethan, that she loved him, that they belonged together. "I can't be your lover and I can't be your partner. As soon as we return to D.C. I plan on asking for a transfer." "What are you talking about?" "Mulder, I was sent here to debunk your work!" Her sudden outburst made him flinch, but she kept talking. "I can't do that anymore. I could never do that. This situation is tearing me apart. The only way I know how to fix it is to separate myself, get away." Dana suddenly collapsed, the strength she had gathered to confront Mulder leaving her. In a moment Mulder was at her side. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, Mulder." The protest was weak as he picked her limp body up, laying her across the queen size bed. "Hold on." Releasing her, he disappeared into the bathroom, returning with a glass of water. "Drink this. Have you had anything to eat lately? I could get you something..." His voiced trailed off as she emphatically nodded no. "Then sit back and listen to me. "I knew why Blevins sent you here. The powers-that-be are trying to shut down the x-files. But I also know *you.* You are a fair, logical woman who is not going to intentionally 'debunk' work that you know is important just to please your superiors. "When I met you five years ago I knew we had something special, and it scared the hell out of me. That's why I left. But I'm tired of being scared, of running away from relationships that mean giving up a part of myself to love. As I sat here alone, thinking about us, I knew that there was no way that I could give up the best thing that has ever happened to me." She began to talk but he hushed her. "It's okay, you don't have to answer me now. What you do need to do is to get some sleep. Stay here, and I'll go get some things from your room." He left her alone in his bed, the bed in which they had almost consummated their love for a second time. Savoring his words and putting her problems aside, Dana Scully fell into a deep sleep, filled with thoughts of one Fox Mulder. * * * * * He had checked everywhere, in the bathroom, in her suitcase, but to no avail. Scully's toothbrush had disappeared. Gone. Had become a new x-file. Reaching under the bed in a last ditch effort, he heard the phone ring. Forgetting where he was, Mulder's left arm took the receiver off the hook and brought it to his ear. "Mulder." "Dana please." "I'm sorry, but Scully is not here right now. May I take a message?" "Put Dana on the phone, please." "As I said before, Minnette, she cannot come to the phone because she's *not here.* May I take a message?" "Listen, 'Spooky,' I would like to speak to my girlfriend. Where is she?" "I don't think you want to know." "Try me." That one phrase, that sarcastic remark, drove Mulder over the edge. "She's in my bed. We have a *very* draining evening and she's resting." "You're lying." "Try me." ***** From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW - Dance WiIth Me 7 Date: 30 Mar 1996 19:59:38 GMT From: lazydark@aol.com (Charleyne Hall) disclaimed in part one (*****) Dance With Me Part 7 That one phrase, that sarcastic remark, drove Mulder over the edge. "She's in my bed. We have had a *very* draining evening and she's resting." "You're lying." "Try me." "Listen, you son of a bitch, I happen to know that Dana is not having an affair on me with you or anyone else for that matter. She told me so herself and I trust her! So if you'll please be a kind little Fox and go get her, I'd appreciate it." Ethan said and Mulder could hear the heat searing in his voice. "Oh! Ethan, my friend. I'd say you're misjudging my previous comment. It appears you don't trust your lovely girlfriend as much as you claim. I simply said that we've had an draining evening. Dana discovered some strange looking marks on her back," Mulder took a breath, enjoying the silence on the other end of the line. "They resembled similar ones to those of the people who have been turning up dead around here. She over reacted and drained herself. Now, if you'll kindly try back when she's awake, I'd be glad to put her on the line." Mulder said and hung up. The enjoyment he had been experiencing disipated as he thought about it. Dana hadn't broken her affairs with Ethan. Of course, she wouldn't have had time, but something in the back of Mulder's mind tingled. What the hell was she doing to him? Messing with his mind was one thing, but lying to him would not get her very far at all. He decided to give up the search for her toothbrush and flopped down on the bed. He closed his eyes and began to contemplate his new situation. Dana was definitely doing dangerous things to him but he couldn't say he didn't like it. ----- Dana Scully opened the door to her hotel room, wondering where Mulder had gone. It was fairly early in the morning and she'd found herself in his room, sleeping in his bed. She remembered what had happened the night before and couldn't help but feel like a fool. She had lead him on, but had forgotten to mention Ethan Minette. She was still exhausted and considered crawling back into bed and curling up in the warm blankets but she also remembered they were here on official business. To her surprise, Mulder was sprawled out on her bed, fully clothed. Even his shoes were still on his feet. She cocked her head to the side and looked at him, while a small smile crept to her lips. He looked so vulnerable with his mouth partly open and his shirt unbuttoned. She stepped closer, standing over him and just watching and listening to his breathing. Waking up beside Ethan had never been so curious. She'd never felt the compulsion to just watch him while he slept. Usually she'd just get out of the bed and dress before he was even awake, leaving for work too early for him. With Mulder, however, it was so differant. She wanted to reach out and touch his sleeping form, to feel the curves of his body without him knowing. Her thoughts drifted back to the evening before. Mulder had almost left her behind, almost walked out of her life again. And why? Becuase of her stupid boyfriend that she'd forgotten to mention. Ethan Minette, a man that she was sure that she didn't love. It was so painfully clear now. He was a substitute for that missing key. Mulder was the key and she hadn't known it until the day they'd made their promises to each other. How could she have promised never to touch him? How could she think that was possible? "Ethan called." said a sleepy voice, startling her. She realized that she'd rested her hand on his chest. Quickly she drew back her hand, as though she'd almost burned it. She didn't want Mulder to know that she so deeply felt his pull. He was dragging her to dangerous places and leaving her bewildered. She didn't want him to leave again. "That's nice. What did he want?" she responded, moving further away from the bed. Mulder groaned and sat up. He rubbed his eyes vigorously, a gesture that Dana thought to be childish but incredibly sexy. "Well, for one, he told me that he loves you and trusts you." Mulder mumbled. "What evoked that, may I ask?" "Something I said." "Oh?" "Yeah. I told him you couldn't come to the phone and he demanded to know where you were. I told him you were in my bed because we'd had a rough evening. He became upset," Mulder said, slowly pushing himself to the edge of the bed. "He told me that he knew we weren't having an affair and that he trusted you. Now, don't ask my how he arrived at that conclusion, but it doesn't sound like he trusts you very much at all." Mulder finished. Scully felt horrible. Ethan had told Mulder that she hadn't broken up with him. The worst of it was that Scully had told Ethan a very big lie, one that could easily complicate the entire mess. She needed a way out. She needed simple scape goat that prevent any further harm from being done. Maybe the case could provide that. "He just doesn't like the idea of me being alone with you. I never told him about us, but he tends to get a little jealous of some of the male agents..." Scully trailed off. She was backing herself into a corner. "Look, we've got to get rolling with this case or the bureau is going to wonder what the hell we've been doing." she pointed out, watching as Mulder stood up, stretching his arms high above his head. He nodded, yawned and went to the door. "That's fine. I'm willing to get this case out of the way, but we're not done with the subject of Mr. Minette, Agent Scully." he said with wry smile, ducking out the door before she could respond. "Son of a bitch!" she said, cursing Minette. Trust him to mess everything up. Well, she was going to have to sort out her priorities, that was for damned sure. ***** From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW - Dance With Me Part 8 Date: 30 Mar 1996 20:06:51 GMT *****Dance With Me Part Eight***** TIME SPAN - First Season, alternate universe DISCLAIMER - To celebrate the occasion, I've written a poem: The characters of Scully and Mulder (Can this paragraph get *a bit* older?) Have never, will never belong to me. Because (and here's reason why, you see), They are owned by a man named Chris Carter. Though I could try to beg, steal, or barter, I can't have them delivered in a box. Unfortunately they're controlled by Fox! DEDICATION - To my friend Keri, who appreciates a good x-files fan fiction story like the rest of us. SUMMARY - Mulder and Scully return to D.C. ***** **Dance With Me Part 8** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net J. Edgar Hoover Building Washington, D.C. Slowly she made her way back to the basement office. Pushing the ajar door open, she was faced with the picture of Mulder hunched over his desk, his mouth set in a determined line. In spite of her anxiety, she smiled. It was at that moment Mulder choose to look up. "Scully, you're back." There was no joy in the statement, only concern and worry. "How was the meeting with Blevins?" She took a seat at the desk. "All right, I guess. I showed them the implant and the transcripts from Billy Miles's hypno-regression session. I don't think they believed me." He snorted. "Big surprise." Mulder's tone softened slightly. "And me? Did they ask about me?" "Yes, they did." "What did you tell them?" "That you went by the book in all of your actions, handled the situation correctly, and you are one of the best agents I have ever worked with." The breath he didn't realize he was holding came out in a rush. Mulder slouched in his chair, relieved, but still nervous. There was one question left to ask, and he wasn't sure if he wanted to know the answer. "And you? Did you ask for a transfer?" "No." The response was spoken so softly Mulder had to strain to hear. "Do you remember what you said to me that night, Mulder? After you came back from your jog and I came to tell you that I was resigning?" "Yes." His photographic memory would never let him forget. "You told me that you didn't want me to go. You told me you wanted to try again. Do you still feel that way, Mulder?" The intensity of her gaze shook him to his core. "I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it, Scully." "I want to try again too. " It scared her to be laying herself on the line this way, but Scully had to do it. Once before she had awakened up to find the best thing in her life gone. She wasn't about to let it again. "That night five years ago was the best in my life, Mulder. It was fate that made us partners. Somebody's telling us something, Fox, and I don't think we should ignore them." "Neither do I." Standing, Mulder made his way to the door, slamming it closed. "Come here." She stood, taking the few steps needed to enclose the space between them. "What are you going to do to me, Agent Mulder?" Scully asked kiddingly, afraid of the electricity that passed between them. "What do you think, Doctor Scully?" Reaching out, Mulder grabbed her wrist, pulling her to his chest. "I'm going to do what I should have done that morning five years ago." He kissed her, long and passionately, just as she had dreamed he would. Running her fingers through his silky hair, Dana urged him closer, opening her mouth to the probing of his tongue. She met him kiss for kiss, caress for caress. Before she knew it, she found herself wedged between the wall and Mulder, his hands slipping underneath the tailored blouse she wore. "Stop, Mulder." The breathless words shook Mulder out of his ecstasy and pushed him away from his partner. Taking a few minutes to compose himself, he averted his eyes from Scully. "I'm sorry, Scully, it won't happen again." She laughed gently. Lifting his chin, she looked him in the eyes, kissing him slowly. "I didn't mean 'stop' forever, you know. I just meant, well, I don't think that this is the right place for what you had planned. It should be somewhere special. At least not this time, anyway." Relief passed through his body a second time. He smiled slightly. "I guess I got carried away." "We both did." Scully kissed him again, the passion quickly escaltating between them. By mutual consent they broke apart, but remained in each other's arms. "How about dinner tonight? I'll make reservations at The Algonquin Hotel," he suggested, hugging her closer. "Sounds great. Around seven?" He nodded, and she carefully extracted herself from his arms. "I'll see you at my place." Quickly she placed a kiss on his lips. "Now, I better get out of here before something happens that we would both thoroughly enjoy." He watched her leave the dank office, a half smile forming on his lips. "You want special, Dana, you're going to get it," he murmured to himself, reaching for the phone. * * * * * She checked herself in the mirror once again. "Pretty good, Dana." The cream colored dress offset her red hair and fair skin. Tearing herself away from checking her makeup for the hundreth time, Scully picked up her cordless phone and began to dial the familiar number. It was unfair of her to begin dating another man without telling the present boyfriend. Four, five rings. On the sixth ring the answering machine picked up. Quickly Scully went over the planned speech in her head. "I'm sorry, Ethan, but it just didn't work out. I hope we can still be friends. Please give me a call when you get in. Dana." As she waited for the beep, the doorbell rang. Torn between the answering machine and Mulder, Scully made a choice. Hanging up the phone, she made her way to the door to let in the man of her dreams. ***** From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW - Dance With Me Part 8 Date: 30 Mar 1996 20:06:51 GMT *****Dance With Me Part Eight***** TIME SPAN - First Season, alternate universe DISCLAIMER - To celebrate the occasion, I've written a poem: The characters of Scully and Mulder (Can this paragraph get *a bit* older?) Have never, will never belong to me. Because (and here's reason why, you see), They are owned by a man named Chris Carter. Though I could try to beg, steal, or barter, I can't have them delivered in a box. Unfortunately they're controlled by Fox! DEDICATION - To my friend Keri, who appreciates a good x-files fan fiction story like the rest of us. SUMMARY - Mulder and Scully return to D.C. ***** **Dance With Me Part 8** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net J. Edgar Hoover Building Washington, D.C. Slowly she made her way back to the basement office. Pushing the ajar door open, she was faced with the picture of Mulder hunched over his desk, his mouth set in a determined line. In spite of her anxiety, she smiled. It was at that moment Mulder choose to look up. "Scully, you're back." There was no joy in the statement, only concern and worry. "How was the meeting with Blevins?" She took a seat at the desk. "All right, I guess. I showed them the implant and the transcripts from Billy Miles's hypno-regression session. I don't think they believed me." He snorted. "Big surprise." Mulder's tone softened slightly. "And me? Did they ask about me?" "Yes, they did." "What did you tell them?" "That you went by the book in all of your actions, handled the situation correctly, and you are one of the best agents I have ever worked with." The breath he didn't realize he was holding came out in a rush. Mulder slouched in his chair, relieved, but still nervous. There was one question left to ask, and he wasn't sure if he wanted to know the answer. "And you? Did you ask for a transfer?" "No." The response was spoken so softly Mulder had to strain to hear. "Do you remember what you said to me that night, Mulder? After you came back from your jog and I came to tell you that I was resigning?" "Yes." His photographic memory would never let him forget. "You told me that you didn't want me to go. You told me you wanted to try again. Do you still feel that way, Mulder?" The intensity of her gaze shook him to his core. "I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it, Scully." "I want to try again too. " It scared her to be laying herself on the line this way, but Scully had to do it. Once before she had awakened up to find the best thing in her life gone. She wasn't about to let it again. "That night five years ago was the best in my life, Mulder. It was fate that made us partners. Somebody's telling us something, Fox, and I don't think we should ignore them." "Neither do I." Standing, Mulder made his way to the door, slamming it closed. "Come here." She stood, taking the few steps needed to enclose the space between them. "What are you going to do to me, Agent Mulder?" Scully asked kiddingly, afraid of the electricity that passed between them. "What do you think, Doctor Scully?" Reaching out, Mulder grabbed her wrist, pulling her to his chest. "I'm going to do what I should have done that morning five years ago." He kissed her, long and passionately, just as she had dreamed he would. Running her fingers through his silky hair, Dana urged him closer, opening her mouth to the probing of his tongue. She met him kiss for kiss, caress for caress. Before she knew it, she found herself wedged between the wall and Mulder, his hands slipping underneath the tailored blouse she wore. "Stop, Mulder." The breathless words shook Mulder out of his ecstasy and pushed him away from his partner. Taking a few minutes to compose himself, he averted his eyes from Scully. "I'm sorry, Scully, it won't happen again." She laughed gently. Lifting his chin, she looked him in the eyes, kissing him slowly. "I didn't mean 'stop' forever, you know. I just meant, well, I don't think that this is the right place for what you had planned. It should be somewhere special. At least not this time, anyway." Relief passed through his body a second time. He smiled slightly. "I guess I got carried away." "We both did." Scully kissed him again, the passion quickly escaltating between them. By mutual consent they broke apart, but remained in each other's arms. "How about dinner tonight? I'll make reservations at The Algonquin Hotel," he suggested, hugging her closer. "Sounds great. Around seven?" He nodded, and she carefully extracted herself from his arms. "I'll see you at my place." Quickly she placed a kiss on his lips. "Now, I better get out of here before something happens that we would both thoroughly enjoy." He watched her leave the dank office, a half smile forming on his lips. "You want special, Dana, you're going to get it," he murmured to himself, reaching for the phone. * * * * * She checked herself in the mirror once again. "Pretty good, Dana." The cream colored dress offset her red hair and fair skin. Tearing herself away from checking her makeup for the hundreth time, Scully picked up her cordless phone and began to dial the familiar number. It was unfair of her to begin dating another man without telling the present boyfriend. Four, five rings. On the sixth ring the answering machine picked up. Quickly Scully went over the planned speech in her head. "I'm sorry, Ethan, but it just didn't work out. I hope we can still be friends. Please give me a call when you get in. Dana." As she waited for the beep, the doorbell rang. Torn between the answering machine and Mulder, Scully made a choice. Hanging up the phone, she made her way to the door to let in the man of her dreams. ***** From: MaryKate Robinson Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW - Dance With Me 10 Date: 30 Mar 1996 20:18:30 GMT *****Dance With Me 10***** TIME SPAN - First Season, Alternate Universe DISCLAIMER - 1) a disclaiming; denial or renunciation, as of a claim, title, etc. 2) a refusal to accept responsibility; a disavowal. 3) MaryKate saying she does not own the characters of Fox Mulder and Dana Scully and don1t blame her for trying ANOTHER DISCLAIMER - I haven't been to Washington since I was six so I have no idea where the Reflecting Pool is, or how to get there, or basically anything. So forgive me for trying! HELLO? ANYONE OUT THERE? - Char and I are enjoying this series, and we hope you are too. Do you think we should keep writing, or wrap it up? Write me at Robinson@htp.net with your comments and suggestions. WARNING - MULDER/SCULLY RELATIONSHIP STORY!!! * * * * * **Dance With Me 10** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net It was all over. No more worrying about Ethan, no more hiding her ever-growing feelings for Mulder, nothing more except for the two of them. Looking over at the man in the driver's seat, Dana Scully smiled. For five years she had dreamt of a time when they meet again and admit their true feelings for each other. Of course, it wasn't the exact scenario she would have chosen, but it had worked out in the end. Feeling her gaze upon him, Mulder quickly looked over to the passenger seat. "What are you so happy about, Doctor Scully?" "Nothing. Why would I be happy?" "Could it be the fact that you are out with 'Spooky' Mulder?" "No, it's probably because I remembered to tape the 'Sliders.'" Shaking his head at his hurt look, she turned to the front. "Mulder, where are we going? This isn't the way to the Algonquin." "Correct, my brilliant and beautiful partner. Tonight we will not be dining at the Algonquin, but somewhere that I hope you have never been to before." "And where would that be, Agent Mulder?" "You'll find out soon enough, Scully. Keep your shirt on." He turned his head and grinned. "Or not. Either option would be enjoyable." "Don't make me hurt you, Mulder." "Yeah, I've seen your handiwork." He ducked the punch she threw. "Okay, okay, I'll be quiet." * * * * * "We're here." Mulder pulled the car over to the curb and exited the car. Undoing her seat belt, Scully stepped onto the sidewalk, looking around. "Mulder, what are we doing here? There aren't any restaurants in sight." "Did I say we were going to a restaurant? I don't remember that." Pulling a picnic basket from the trunk, he walked over to Scully. "Tonight we will be dining at Washington's own Reflecting Pool." "You're kidding me." "I'll take that note of credulous wonder in your voice in a good way." Leading her to a grassy knoll, Mulder laid down a blanket. "Sit." Scully did as she was told. "Aren't you going to join me?" "In a minute." Pulling a champagne bottle out of the hamper, Mulder popped the cork, pouring the bubbling liquid into the champagne flutes. "To something we should have done a long time ago." "Agreed." He sat down in front of her. "What do you think, Doctor Scully? Special?" "Huh?" Dana wasn't listening, intent on poring through the hamper. "Champagne, chicken marsala, black forest cheesecake, even candles! This is amazing, Mulder. How did you do this in one day?" Pleased at her response, Mulder grinned. "Aw shucks, it was nuthin'." "Who would have known that Fox Mulder would be a romantic?" This time he didn't answer, mesmerized by her, by watching her in the glow of the candles she had just lit. She looked so lovely, the radiance of the flame making her seem luminescent, the red hair becoming part of the fire. She was beautiful. Slowly her voice interrupted his thoughts, breaking his vision. "Huh?" "I just wanted to thank you, Mulder. This night could have gone a lot differently if it hadn't been for you, and I can't imagine anything more perfect than this." Her eyes were bright with unshed tears. Unable to help himself, Mulder pulled her body close to his, her back touching his chest. Kissing her head softly, he leaned over and whispered in her ear, "I have never done anything like this for anyone, Scully. I've never *wanted* to. You bring out something in me I never knew I had. I should be thanking you." She turned to face him, the tears gone, replaced with a mischievous glimmer. "And how are you going to thank me, Mulder?" "I'm sure I'll think of something." Unhurriedly he lowered his mouth to hers, coaxing an immediate response. Threading his fingers through her hair, he tugged her down onto his chest, until he was lying down with her sprawled against his washboard stomach. Deepening the kiss, Mulder slid his tongue between her full lips, dueling with her tongue. Tearing his lips away, he gently pushed her away from him until he could look her in the eyes. "Are you sure about this, Scully?" She smiled and slid her hands down his chest. "I've never been more sure of anything in my life." Dana kissed him, long and hard. Grabbing her arms, Mulder rolled over, pulling Scully under him. With one hand he caressed her cheek, while the other explored other crevices of her body. He reluctantly tore his mouth from hers, assuaging the quick release of pressure by raining soft kisses over her face. "God, Scully, as much as I want to do this, I don't want to get arrested for indecent exposure." "Don't forget excessive noise." She raised herself off the ground, giving Mulder a hand. "Can I interest you in a cup of coffee at my place, Mulder?" "I think that would be extremely nice of you, thank you." Unable to hide his happiness, he laughed. "Who'd have thought that we'd be apart for so long and then you'd reappear into my life?" "I did." Scully's mood turned serious. "Five years ago, Mulder. I knew then what took you so long to find out." "I'll make up for it, Scully." Taking her hand he led her to the car. After opening the passenger door, a loud buzzing noise cut through the quiet night. "That's me." Reaching into his jacket pocket, Mulder pulled out his cel phone. "Mulder." Scully only half listened as he grunted and made appropriate noises into the phone. The fact that after five years they found one another again was amazing. She remembered her vow the morning after, that she would one day find Fox Mulder and make him admit how he really felt about her. And it had happened. They were coming full circle, after many mishaps. But, the journey didn't count, only the destination did. "Scully, we have a problem." "What?" "We've been called in for an urgent matter. Just this evening we received a message from our scientists in Alaska working on the Arctic Core. The transmission was, 'We are not who we are.' All contact is gone. We fly out tonight to meet with a group of doctors and scientists to investigate." "Tonight?" "In three hours." At her crestfallen look he smiled. "I feel the same way. But who knows, maybe Alaska may have a certain ambience." "Maybe." ***** Look for the continuation of Dance With Me in "Trust of Ice"