Title: Come Back To Me I: Friends & Lovers Author: mulder42 E-Mail: mulderfortytwo@hotmail.com Rating: PG (unless otherwise specified) Category: MSR, Torture, Angst, told from both Mulder & Scully's POV's Spoilers: A little bit of this & that--all the way up to Season 7 (and parts of Season 8!), where this story takes place. Summary: Mulder & Scully have admitted their true feelings to one another and embarked on a romantic relationship. But soon after they become lovers, Mulder disappears, the apparent victim of an alien abduction. How far will Scully go to get her partner, best friend, and soulmate back? Disclaimer: Mulder & Scully don't belong to me--they belong to each other! I have no right to keep them apart...Legally, they belong to Chris Carter, Ten Thirteen Productions, and 20th Century Fox Television. Author's Notes: I got so much great response from "The Distance Between Us", that I decided to write a sequel of sorts. You don't necessarily have to read the first story, but if you would like to know how M&S got to where they are in their relationship, then by all means do! For everyone else, just know that this story takes place 4 days from where "Distance" ended. Dedications-- To lbjeffries & TAG: My two biggest supporters when "Distance" was originally posted at the FANDOM messageboard. Your endless feedback to me after every part was a really great motivator. Thanks so much, ladies! To Susan Frankovich: My fanfiction goddess; the queen of the vignette, and accomplished M&S dialogue writer. What would I do without your beautiful works? Thank you. And especially... To Nancy: What can I say? When I first met you online in August 1999, I felt I had met a kindred spirit. We could discuss anything and everything X-Files. As a fellow Mulderist, I can always count on you to have a good chat about 'all things' David. Talking with you for the last 2+ years has been a lot of fun, and very enlightening to my life. Hang in there, and "never give up on a miracle." Thank you for being my friend. :) ============================== Look at this face I know the years are showing Look at this life I still don't know where it's going I don't know much But I know I love you And that may be, all I need to know... --"Don't Know Much" by Linda Ronstadt & Aaron Neville And death shall have no dominion. Dead men naked they shall be one With the man in the wind and the west moon; When their bones are picked clean and the clean bones gone, They shall have stars at elbow and foot; Though they go mad they shall be sane, Though they sink through the sea they shall rise again; Though lovers be lost love shall not; And death shall have no dominion. --"And Death Shall Have No Dominion" by Dylan Thomas ============================== COME BACK TO ME I: FRIENDS & LOVERS By mulder42 PART ONE: NO ORDINARY LOVE XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX I gave you all the love I got I gave you all that I could give I gave you love I gave you all that I have inside And you took my love You took my love Didn't I tell you What I believe Did somebody say that A love like that won't last Didn't I give you All that I've got to give baby I gave you all the love I got I gave you more than I could give I gave you love I gave you all that I have inside And you took my love You took my love I keep crying I keep trying for you There's nothing like you and I baby This is no ordinary love No ordinary love This is no ordinary love No ordinary love When you came my way You brightened every day With your sweet smile Didn't I tell you What I believe Did somebody say that A love like that won't last Didn't I give you All that I've got to give baby This is no ordinary love No ordinary love This is no ordinary love No ordinary love I keep crying I keep trying for you There's nothing like you and I baby This is no ordinary love No ordinary love This is no ordinary love No ordinary love Keep trying for you Keep crying for you Keep flying for you Keep flying I'm falling I'm falling Keep trying for you Keep crying for you Keep flying for you Keep flying I'm falling I'm falling... SATURDAY, JUNE 3rd, 2000 SCULLY'S APARTMENT ANNAPOLIS, MD 9:47pm I still can't believe it. When Mulder and I got back home from Chicago four days ago, it still felt like a dream. Like it wasn't real somehow. But it is. We admitted we love each other. Nothing was held back. It was so amazing how easy it was, once we let our guards down. We just got back from the movies a few minutes ago. Mulder insisted on it. He called it our first date back home in familiar surroundings. He even took me out for ice cream afterwards. It was a nice, pleasant evening out. So here we sit, in front of the television, channel surfing. Or should I say that Mulder is doing the actual surfing, since he has the remote... "Looking for the scores, Mulder?" "What? Oh, yeah. Was it something you wanted to see, Scully?" "Nope. Whatever you choose is fine with me." "OK." He sat back further into the cushions, and reached for my hand. I put my head on his shoulder, and closed my eyes. This was nice. xxxxxxx I still can't believe it. While Scully and I were in Chicago, we finally let our guards down and admitted that we love each other. It's been four days since we got back home, and I've been walking around, still not quite sure that this is not a dream. I took her out to a movie, and then ice cream afterwards. A nice, simple, first date back home. And now, as I sit here on Scully's couch, with her eyes closed, and her head on my shoulder, I wonder why it took us so long to get to this point. We really should've tried this a long time ago... "Hey, Scully?" "Mmm, yes, Mulder?" "We don't have to watch this--you can pick something you like." "That's okay. You just keep on watching whatever it is you're watching." "Scully! You're not paying any attention, are you?" "No, I'm not. I just want to sit here, just like this." She put her arm around mine, and snuggled a little closer to me, never once opening her eyes. OK, so she wants a little quiet time--I can handle that. I watched TV with the volume low, so I wouldn't disturb her. I could tell she was starting to drift off, but I didn't mind. After an hour and a half of silence, I woke her up. "Scully! Scully, wake up! It's after 11. Maybe you should go to bed." "Okay. I'll go get changed. Don't go anywhere." "Hadn't planned to." xxxxxxx I gave him my best inquisitive stare, before heading towards the bedroom. OK, Dana--just because he said he wasn't going anywhere, doesn't mean he's got anything planned tonight! Besides, it's only been four days, and he told me we would take this relationship slow. What if he's changed his mind? I put my pajamas on, then went back out to face Mulder. "So, Mulder, would you like some coffee before you go?" "Coffee? Sure." xxxxxxx OK, what's wrong here? Scully seemed so calm a few minutes ago, and now she's all tense. It happened after I said I wasn't leaving. That's it! She probably thinks I changed my mind about taking things slow. Silly girl--don't you know I would never try to rush things between us? Besides, we've got plenty of time before we get *really* serious! We sat down at her kitchen table, and waited for the kettle to whistle. Scully got up a little too quickly once it did. I knew I wasn't imagining things! *"Scully, it's okay."* "What's okay?" I put my hand on top of hers, and said it again, with more emphasis, so she would understand. "Scully, it's okay." She looked up from her coffee mug, straight into my eyes. I saw them start to soften, and she squeezed my hand. Good. xxxxxxx I was really starting to feel apprehensive about this, until Mulder told me it was okay. When I looked into his eyes, I finally understood. I knew at that moment that Mulder would never be that way with me. I don't even know why I'm thinking like this. I decided to ask him to tuck me in. "So, Mulder--tuck me in?" "Sure, let's go." He took my hand, and we walked towards the bedroom. I took off my robe, and slipped under the sheets. Mulder sat down next to me. "Would you like a bedtime story, Scully?" "No, but I'll settle for a kiss instead." "I think that can be arranged." xxxxxxx I hadn't kissed her since Wednesday morning, our first day back at the office. That's been way too long! We'll definitely have to rectify this situation. I've got to have at least one kiss a day in order to stay sane. I leaned down towards her, and our lips met. It was like that first time all over again, just like on New Year's Day. "The world didn't end." "No, it didn't, Mulder. Can I have another one?" "Don't have to ask me twice!" I wanted my arms around her, so I pulled her up against me. I could feel her heartbeat, pounding against my chest. This is nice. I kissed her again, with a little more passion this time. Scully put her hands on my face, then ran them down my chest. I stopped her, before things started to get out of control. "Scully..." xxxxxxx Oh my! He just gave me a tingle straight down to my toes! I haven't heard that sexy whisper from him since Tuesday morning, when he came to see me after we got back home. He better not dare talk to me that way at work! Mulder got off the bed. "Wait! Please, Mulder. Don't go." "I think I should." "'Fraid I'll jump your bones?" "No, I'm afraid I'll do it!" "It's okay. Like you told me in Chicago, we'll take this slow. When the time is right, we'll know." "And now is definitely *not* the right time." "I agree." "So, now that *that's* settled, what now?" "You stay with me tonight." "Scully!" "Take off your clothes, Mulder, and lie down next to me." xxxxxxx Can't say no to that request! I stripped down to my underwear, and jumped in the bed next to her. We held each other, until we fell asleep. SUNDAY, JUNE 4th 4:17am I woke up, which was not unusual for me. I sat up, and looked down at Scully. She looked pained. She was biting her bottom lip, and had her arms across her chest, like she's trying to protect herself. Oh, no--not another nightmare about Pfaster again! I thought that was over now. I tried to gently wake her up, but she wasn't responding... xxxxxxx I'm frightened about the facts I've just uncovered. I have to call Mulder and tell him. Maybe he can explain it to me. Damn! His machine. It's better than nothing. I leave him a message. "Mulder, it's me. I just had something incredibly strange happen. This piece of metal that they took out of Duane Barry, it has some kind of code on it. I ran it through a scanner and some kind of serial number came up. What the hell is this thing, Mulder? It's almost as if...it's almost as if somebody was using it to catalogue him." Then I hear a noise. It had been raining heavily for quite awhile now. I go over to the window, and raise the blinds. I get the shock of my life, when I see Duane Barry staring back at me! I run to get my gun, as he breaks through the window, grabbing me. No! I drop the phone, but I call for Mulder, as Duane drags me away. Please, hear this message soon. "Mulder! I need your help! Mulder!" And then I wake up. "Mulder!" I jump out of bed, not noticing Mulder looking at me strangely. I trip on my robe that somehow got on the floor during the night, falling to the floor. "Mulder..." "I'm right here, Scully." "Oh, my God! What are you doing here?" "Don't you remember? You asked me to stay. You were having a nightmare, Scully. I tried to wake you up. Was it Pfaster again?" "No," I say. "It was Duane Barry. When he took me away. I was leaving a message on your answering machine..." xxxxxxx I remember now. It totally shocked me, that first time I heard her desperate plea for help. I rushed right over to her apartment, afraid of what I might find. When she was gone, I went around in a daze for months, trying to find her. Mulder! I need your help! Mulder! "Mulder? Why didn't you ever tell me?" "Tell you what?" "Oh! Wait. Maybe I should go back a little. You have absolutely no idea of what I'm talking about. Let's get off this floor first, shall we?" I looked at her. She didn't seem afraid. Before we got up, I held her close to me. "Scully, are you alright?" "I'm fine, Mulder, really. Help me up, please?" I picked her up, and gently placed her on the bed. She smiled at me. "Mulderr..." "I know, Scully. I didn't have to do that, but I *wanted* to. Really. So, what's troubling you?" "Do you mind if I lie back down? My ribs..." "Oh, Scully. Where does it hurt? Do you want your painkillers?" "No, I'll be OK. I've got to stop taking those things, anyway. I'm gonna give it another week or so, then I'm flushing the rest down the toilet. But, I'm getting off the subject here. I have something I need to say to you, Mulder. And I just want you to listen, okay?" All of a sudden, she sounded so serious. I don't think I'm going to like this. xxxxxxx He looked so worried. I had put it off long enough. I had to tell him about my conversation last Sunday with my mother. I lay down, and so did Mulder, his back facing me. I placed my hands there, hoping that he would calm down some. "Mulder, remember after I kicked you out of my room after our date?" "Yes." "You know I went downstairs to have a couple of drinks, because I told you on Sunday night. After I got back to my room, feeling totally sorry for myself, I called my mother, and she told me something very interesting about you. Now I don't know if she was breaking a confidence or anything, so please don't be upset with her." "What is it?" "She told me about what happened to you after Duane Barry kidnapped me." I felt him tense up. I'm going about this the wrong way! I rubbed his back, making some circular motions up and down. "She told me how frantic you were to find me, Mulder. You had stopped sleeping, and barely ate anything. She also told me how after you found Duane, that you almost killed him, and that you couldn't tell your own mother about it. You told my mother that it wasn't my time to go when she bought that headstone. And after I was found, how you didn't want to take me off life support, even though you had witnessed me signing my living will. I'm not accusing you of anything, Mulder, but why didn't you ever tell me about this?" xxxxxxx I had my eyes closed the entire time she was telling me this. I could feel her warm breath, tickling the hairs on the back of my neck. I turned around to face her. "Scully, I was so afraid. I thought I would never see you again. I actually turned in my resignation to Skinner after you had been found, but he wouldn't accept it. Your sister Melissa came to my apartment, begging me to come see you, after they shut down the life support. I didn't want to go at first, but she convinced me. So I came, and sat by your bedside, where I talked to you all night. I don't know if you heard me, but I was glad I came." "Oh, Mulder, I heard every word you said to me! Thank you for that. I *did* have the strength of your beliefs..." She kissed me on the forehead, and hugged me. "Thank you, Mulder. For everything." I held her to me tightly, and kissed her on the neck. "Scully..." xxxxxxx We stayed that way for endless minutes, until I broke it off. When we let go of each other, we laid back down. Mulder put his arms around my waist, and I put my hand on his chest, just feeling his heartbeat. I brought my hand up to his cheek, looking straight at him. "This is all so new to us, Mulder, but I think we can make this work. I love you." "I love you too, Scully." I kissed him then; a long, lingering kiss, just tasting his lips against mine, breathing in his breath. It was wonderful. I closed my eyes, and snuggled closer to him. "Goodnight, Mulder." "Goodnight, Scully." We fell asleep a few minutes later. Yes, it was all so new to us, but together, we could make it through anything. *To Be Continued...* "No Ordinary Love" is by Sade, from her albums, LOVE DELUXE & THE BEST OF SADE. COME BACK TO ME I: FRIENDS & LOVERS By mulder42 PART TWO: WHAT YOU GONNA DO? XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX TUESDAY, JUNE 6th J. EDGAR HOOVER FBI BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC X-FILES OFFICE 8:19am We've been sitting here in the office for the past half hour. Mulder has been trying to convince me that we should go to Los Angeles for a case. Some kind of 'creature' has been attacking people there. I told him it's not worth our time, but he keeps insisting. "C'mon, Scully, this is a classic X-File case. If you don't want to go, I can go without you..." "OK, when does the flight leave?" "Great! I knew you wouldn't let me down." Of course I wouldn't. I'd follow Fox Mulder to the ends of the Earth and back again--but I wouldn't tell him that. Not now, while he's got a silly grin on his face. He's calling the airline for the next available flight. I'd better go home and pack. I tell Mulder to call me with the flight info, before he picks me up. xxxxxxx I thought it would be harder than this. It only took a half hour to convince Scully to go to L.A. with me. I thought she'd be really mad with me, but she wasn't at all. She tried to hide the grin on her face the entire time I was explaining the case to her. Once she agreed, she put on her coat, and told me she was going home to pack. She was going to have a long wait before I pick her up. What I failed to tell Scully was that this creature only attacks at night, so it was going to be a few hours before our flight to California. Which leaves a few hours downtime alone--with Scully. xxxxxxx SCULLY'S APARTMENT 2:42pm "Scully, it's me. Open the door." "Where have you been, Mulder? I've been waiting for hours to hear from you." "I was getting ready." "It doesn't take this long to pack, Mulder! What's up?" "Nothing. We've just got a later flight, that's all." "How late?" "We don't leave until 8:07 tonight." "Eight o'clock! Mulder..." I was expecting her to start yelling at me, but I didn't get it. Instead, she walked over to the couch, sat down, and used the remote to turn on the television. "I could've stayed at the office, Mulder." "I know, but I wanted to spend a little quality time with you." "Mulder, just because we're involved now doesn't mean you can start using cases just to be alone with me. I think we need to set some ground rules." "About what?" "About our relationship. Mulder, you know I love you, but this part of my life has to be separate from the FBI. Do you understand?" "Yes, I do. I couldn't help it, Scully. I haven't seen you since Sunday. You took Monday off--what gives?" "Haven't you ever heard of a personal day, Mulder? I took one to take care of something." "Take care of what?" She looked at me, and her face went pale. What did I say? "Scully, what is it?" "It's nothing, Mulder. So, would you like to watch a movie while we wait?" "Sure. What did you have in mind?" "Oh, I don't know. There should be something on American Movie Classics..." So, she didn't want to talk about it. And she changes the subject, trying to tempt me with a movie. I don't know what just happened, but I guess it'll have to wait until she's ready to tell me. I hope she's not shutting me out of things again... xxxxxxx I couldn't tell him yet. Not until I'm 100% sure about this. Besides, I have more research to do, before I come to a decision, so I shouldn't worry him about this. We'll just go on the case, and I can get my mind off of *that* right now... "I'll order Chinese, Mulder. But don't let this go to your head. We have to keep our professional life separate from the romantic one, okay?" "No problem, Scully. Separate the romantic from the professional. I *think* I can do that!" "Good. Do you want egg rolls?" "Sure. So, what's playing on AMC?" "I don't know yet, but we'll find out in a few minutes--it's almost three o'clock!" "Hope it's not a chick flick..." As it turned out, it was a 'chick flick.' From Here To Eternity, in fact. "Didn't you watch this while we were in Chicago?" "I had planned on watching it, but I changed my mind. I turned on the radio and read a book instead. I haven't seen it in a while. Now we can watch it together. And don't you dare say no, Mulder, because you asked to watch it with me then." "Wouldn't dream of it, Scully. Besides, I've never seen it myself, and I'm curious. Isn't this the one with that famous beach scene?" "Yes. Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr--really nice." "Oh yeah, sure. Frolicking around on a beach with water and sand all over you?" "Well, that was pretty hot stuff when it originally came out." Our food arrived a half-hour into the movie. I got up to get it, then went over to the kitchen to get plates and silverware. I brought it all over to the living room table. "Dig in, Mulder! I got a little bit of everything..." xxxxxxx She wasn't kidding! I filled up a plate. I was really hungry, since I hadn't eaten breakfast this morning. I shoved a big forkful into my mouth, and went back to watching the movie. It wasn't too bad. I actually enjoyed it. And the beach scene was pretty tame, as far as love scenes go. But like Scully said, it was 'pretty hot stuff' considering when it was originally released. She sat a little closer to me once she finished eating. When the movie ended, I volunteered to clean up. "You don't have to, Mulder." "Of course I do. It's the least I can do." "Okay." I put the leftovers in the fridge, and cleaned off the plates. I was about to reach for the dish detergent, but Scully crept up behind me, wrapping her arms around my waist. "Hey! I've got dishes to wash here." "Leave 'em for later, Mulder. Mmm, anybody ever tell you you've got a really strong back?" Her hands moved to my back, running them up and down. I shivered, and leaned forward against the sink. "What happened to keeping things separate, Scully?" "Well, since you're here, I thought I'd take advantage of the situation." "Scully, 'taking advantage' is not something you should be saying to me right now." "Why not?" "Because, if you don't stop touching me like that, I might not be able to stop myself." "What if I don't want to stop? Look at me, Mulder." What's gotten into her? And throwing that seductive voice on me! I turned around to look at her. That was a mistake. She's giving me a 'come hither' look now. "Scully..." "Mulder, kiss me!" I couldn't resist that voice, so I did as I was told. I leaned down towards her, and gave her a slow, lingering kiss. We must've stood there for at least five minutes, just tasting each other. I had my hands on her face, while Scully threaded her fingers in my hair, trying to pull me closer. Since we were already practically glued together, there was no other place to go. I could hear little moans of pleasure come from Scully's throat. I broke it off, then ran my lips down her neck. We were both breathing pretty hard. "Scully, this is not the time..." xxxxxxx I don't know what came over me. Maybe it was the movie. I just wanted a kiss from him, but then I wanted more, and I knew I wasn't ready. "I'm sorry, Mulder." "Don't be. I always love to kiss a beautiful woman." "I'm breaking my own rules, aren't I?" "Yes, but I don't mind." "Of course you don't mind! Here I am, practically throwing myself at you!" "As long as it's you, Dana, don't ever be sorry about that. I love you. That will never change." "Never?" "Not while I'm alive." "That's good to hear. Let's go sit down." I took his hand, and led him over to the couch. I turned off the TV, and turned the radio on. We just sat there, listening to the music, not saying a word. Before we knew it, it was almost seven o'clock. I got my bags, and we went down to Mulder's car, ready for the drive to the airport. xxxxxxx WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7th 12:37am We finally made it to Los Angeles. The plane went through some turbulence early in the flight, but Scully slept right through it. I don't know how she managed that. After I got the rental car, and our bags packed in the trunk, I drove to the last known location of the creature attack, in Willow Park. We looked around, flashlights in hand. After several minutes, we were surrounded by police, and told to put our hands up. After taking our guns away and checking our ID's, we were given the okay, and our weapons were given back to us. It was actually the L.A. County Sheriff's Department who found us. They got a call to investigate an attack a few blocks away, and everyone started running towards their cars. It was then when we found out that a camera crew was following their every move. Scully was none too happy about this, and decided to call Skinner about it. xxxxxxx Great! We come to investigate this attack, only to have local law enforcement, and a camera crew watching our every move. I wasn't happy about this and told Mulder so. I decided to call Skinner about our situation, but he was no help at all. "What did he say, Scully?" "He said the FBI has nothing to hide. I don't like this, Mulder. I don't like it at all. Aren't you afraid what people will say if this ever gets on the air?" "I've got nothing to worry about. Besides, this could be fun, Scully." "I still don't like it. I don't want to be on TV." "I'm sure you'll look great--don't worry about it. Just pretend like they're not here." "Yeah, right. Easy for you to say." When we went to go to the location of the attack, a cameraman wanted to get into the car with us, but I brushed him off. These folks will just not give anybody any privacy! We met up with Deputy Keith Wetzel, a rookie, with a little over a year on the job. He had some nasty scratches on him. An ambulance was called, while we went to the home where the attack took place. And on and on it went, all night. Attacks showed up all over the neighborhood. A sketch artist and a prostitute were killed. Then somehow, Mulder figured it out. He said it had to do with playing on each person's greatest fears. It seemed plausible, since we were getting conflicting descriptions of the attacker. I went to the coroner's office to do the autopsy on the hooker. The assistant who was helping me kept mentioning viruses, but I told her there was nothing to worry about. There was nothing to fear. Next thing I know, she collapses and dies right there in front of me. Mulder drove around with the rookie deputy, but somehow they got split up, and he got attacked again. I joined up with him for the search with his fellow officers. We went to the house where earlier arrests were made, and found the camera crew huddled in a closet. We left them there. We heard screaming coming from the second floor, so we ran up there to investigate, with another camera crew following us. It was bad enough they followed me to the coroner's office--now here, too? Mulder pounded on a door, telling the deputy to 'cowboy up,' which I believe he said especially for the cameras. He's enjoying this way too much. Finally it's over, at almost 7am. We fill out reports at the sheriff's office, then Mulder drives me to a cheesy motel, where we can get some much needed sleep. "G'night, Mulder. I don't want to wake up for a thousand years." "Tired, Scully?" "Yeah, aren't you?" "Nope. Hey, I found out that the camera crews that were following everybody around are from the TV show COPS!" "You've got to be kidding me!" "It's true. I've got to call the gunmen about this. Don't worry, Scully. I'll let you get some sleep." xxxxxxx I watched Scully open the door to her room. She *did* look tired. I know she didn't really want to come with me, and then to have this thrown on top of everything just made it worse. She tried very hard not to get on camera. It was all quite amusing to me. I listened for any sounds coming from Scully's room. I didn't hear anything. That's strange; I would've expected to hear the shower by now. I put my ear against the connecting door, but still couldn't hear anything. I tapped lightly on the door. No answer. Luckily, she left it unlocked and I let myself in. Scully was lying on the bed, with all her clothes on, asleep. I tiptoed over to the bed, took her shoes off, and placed a blanket on top of her. I kissed her on the forehead, and turned off the lamp. I went back to my room, called the gunmen, and told them the good news. xxxxxxx SATURDAY, JUNE 24th MULDER'S APARTMENT ALEXANDRIA, VA 12:27pm I called Scully earlier this morning, and told her to meet me at the park for a surprise. She told me today wasn't a good day, since it was going to rain. Nonsense, I told her. She relented, and told me she'd be there at one o'clock. I left to make the short drive, and waited. She showed up on time. I had everything ready. She was wearing that same suede jacket just like before. Did she read my mind? "Here we are at the park, once again." "Yes. Get over here, Scully. I've got something for you." "What is it?" "Your very own jersey, just like mine." "You shouldn't have, Mulder." "It was my pleasure. Try it on." She tried it on, and it fit perfectly. The bracelet I gave her in Chicago was on her right wrist. "Mulder, I meant to ask you before. Who is this #20?" "Josh Gibson, Negro League slugger for the Homestead Grays of Pennsylvania." "And where is Poorboy?" "He moved away a few months ago, but I got us a replacement. Tommy, come here!" xxxxxxx I don't know where this Tommy was hiding; he seemed to appear out of thin air. Mulder introduced us. "How old are you, Tommy?" "I'm ten years old, Ms. Scully." "Oh, you're so polite! You can call me Dana, Tommy." "Sure. Nice to meet you, Dana." "Okay, enough with the introductions. Let's play!" This was really bringing back pleasant memories for me. We had so much fun that night. I saw a side of Mulder I hadn't seen before, and I really liked it. If he only knew how I really felt about him back then... Hey, it's not a bad piece of ash, huh? The bat--I'm talking about the bat. Now don't strangle it. You just want to shake hands with it. "Hello, Mr. Bat. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance." "Oh, no, no, Ms. Scully. The pleasure's all mine." I couldn't help but get a goofy grin on my face. "I know, Mulder. I didn't forget. Hips before hands." "Right. You want the middle again?" "Of course. Fire away, Tommy!" Tommy started the machine, and we started swinging the bat, in our matching Gibson jerseys. We were lots better this time. He had his hands on my hips, giving them the slightest bit of pressure, just like before, and like before, he whispered right in my ear, which made me shiver against him. "Mulder, don't talk to me like that!" "Like what?" "You know what I'm talking about. You keep using 'that voice,' and I'll devour you right here on this spot." "Oooh, Scully! Let's not corrupt a young mind, shall we?" Just then, the sky went black, and the clouds opened up. We got pelted by a downpour of rain. "See! I told you! Tommy, would you like a ride home?" "No, Ms. Scully, I've got my bike. See you next time?" "Maybe. 'Bye!" "Goodbye, Ms. Scully. Mr. Mulder." He hopped on his bike and went home. Mulder and I ran towards our cars, and drove to his apartment. We were soaking wet once we got inside. xxxxxxx "Get out of those clothes, Scully, before you catch cold!" "Do you have anything I can wear?" "Well, I don't know..." "Never mind. I'm gonna grab a towel and dry off." She went to the bathroom, and closed the door. I remembered something I left in the trunk of my car, and I went downstairs to get it. When I came back, Scully came out of the bathroom, wearing my New York Knicks t-shirt, and nothing else! OK, calm down, Mulder... "I've got a robe in the closet somewhere. You'd better put it on." "What about you, Mulder? Shouldn't you change clothes, too?" "Nah, I'll be fine." "Stealing my line again, Mulder? Go change. That's an order!" "Yes, ma'am!" I saluted her, and went to change clothes in the bedroom. When I came out, Scully was wearing the robe. "I had a picnic planned after batting practice, before the rain interrupted us." "Well, it's not like we haven't had a picnic inside before. Spread out the blanket, and let's eat. I'm starved!" We had turkey sandwiches and fruit, just like before. Though the rain ruined my plans for today, I think we had a much better time indoors. Too bad we didn't have a sunset. Maybe next time... xxxxxxx Who knew having a picnic indoors could be so much fun? I had wanted to do it again, ever since the one we had in Chicago. No sunset, though. Maybe next time... "So, Mulder--it's awfully quiet in here. Mind if I turn on the radio?" "No, go ahead." I switched over to the smooth jazz station, and sat on the couch, putting my legs underneath me. Mulder came over, and sat on the floor beside me. He put his hand on my knee. "I had a good time today, Mulder. Regardless of the weather." "I did, too." He didn't say anything else, just laid his head down by my side. I caressed his cheek, and closed my eyes. After a few minutes, I opened them again, only to find Mulder asleep. I woke him up. Didn't want him to be sore from sleeping on the floor. "Here, Mulder, lie down on the couch. My clothes should be dry by now. I'll get dressed and go home." "No, Scully, don't go. Stay with me." "Alright, I'll stay a little longer." "Lie down with me." "There's no room! Wait, I've got an idea." I told him to sit up. I sat down, and told him to put his head on my lap, so we could both fit on the couch. This was nice. Mulder closed his eyes, and went back to sleep. I just sat there, fiddled with his hair, and watched the rain outside. I went home a couple hours later. Mulder wanted me to stay, but I knew I couldn't. It still wasn't the right time for us. At ten o'clock, I received an excited phone call from my mother. She told me that her next-door neighbor saw me on TV with 'some good-looking guy.' She turned it on to watch. I was hoping she wouldn't see COPS. Guess it's too late now. She told me it would be repeated at 2am. Great! I'd better tell Mulder, if he doesn't know already. I was about to hang up, when she asked me an unusual question. At least it was unusual for my mother. "Didn't Fox look absolutely delicious in that leather jacket? Wow, if only I was thirty years younger!" *"Mother!"* "Well, its true! Not that I'm trying to steal your boyfriend or anything!" "Mom! You're not going around telling your friends about me and Mulder, are you?" "No sweetie, I'm not." "Good." "You didn't answer my question--he *was* yummy, wasn't he?" "Yes Mom, he looked good enough to eat." After we said our goodbyes, I called Mulder. "I miss you." "I miss you, too. Look Mulder, my mother saw us on COPS tonight. She said it gets repeated at 2am. I just thought I'd let you know, so you can record it for posterity." "Thanks for informing me, but I already knew." "You did?" "Yeah, I called the producer to find out when it would be airing here. I wanted to watch with you." "Oh no, Mulder, I don't think I could watch it. They probably edited it to all the times I was hiding from the cameras." "Just think, Scully. We're gonna be famous!" "I don't want to be famous. I'll say goodnight now, Mulder. I need to get some sleep." "OK, goodnight, Scully." xxxxxxx I stayed up all night. I didn't want to miss it. I even called the gunmen, but they knew about it already as well. When 1:55am rolled around, I dialed Scully's number. "H'lo?" "Scully, wake up!" "Why?" "It's showtime!" "I told you, Mulder. I don't want to watch." "I know, but we can watch it together. Get up and turn on your television..." While I waited for Scully to wake up and turn on her TV, I thought about that silly theme song that plays right before the program: Bad boys, bad boys, what you gonna do? What you gonna do when they come for you... I didn't really know what Scully and I were going to do. We were taking things slowly, and I didn't want to pressure her into anything she wasn't ready for, but every time we're together, it's like an explosion. I don't know how else to explain it. The passion is there, but Scully always pulls away from me. I've got to find out what's bothering her... *To Be Continued...* COME BACK TO ME I: FRIENDS & LOVERS By mulder42 PART THREE: A PICTURE'S WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX TUESDAY, JUNE 27th FBI HEADQUARTERS X-FILES OFFICE 8:29am "Scully, you're late!" "Yes, I'm sorry. I overslept this morning." "And what happened yesterday--another personal day for Dana Scully?" "Yes, Mulder." "And?" "And, what?" "What's going on here? You're taking a lot of *personal* days." "So?" "So, I need to know what's going on." "Nothing's going on, Mulder. And I would appreciate it if you would quit trying to delve into my private life." "Dammit, Scully! What is wrong with you?" "Nothing's wrong, Mulder." "I know something is. And now that we're involved, you should be able to share it with me..." I wanted so badly to share it with him, but it was still too soon. He seems so worried. I've got a couple more appointments, so I can't tell him just yet. Not until I'm sure. xxxxxxx I don't know what it is with Scully. Her strange behavior started the week after we got back from our vacation. She took a Monday off then too. I'm finding it hard to believe that she would hide things from me now, after all that's happened. I keep getting the sinking feeling that she's sick again, but she looks healthy. Nothing has changed there--she looks *fine*. If I can get some time alone with her, maybe she'll tell me what it is. "What's on the agenda today, Mulder? Mulder?" "What? Oh! Sorry. Skinner wants to see us in his office at 8:45. Something to do with that bank robbery case we worked on in Violent Crimes before our vacation." "You're kidding!" "I wish I was. We'd better go." xxxxxxx ASSISTANT DIRECTOR WALTER S. SKINNER'S OFFICE 8:43am This is certainly one case I didn't want to revisit. I'm sure Mulder didn't want to either. We didn't say one word to each other on our trip to Skinner's office in the elevator. I didn't expect to feel his hand on that familiar spot on my back, but it was there, slowly burning a hole into me. I hate not telling Mulder about this, but I can't worry about that now; the AD's waiting. His secretary told us to go on in--he was ready for us. "Agents--have a seat. You're probably wondering why I'm even bringing this case up again, but I just received a rather unusual request from the SAC in the Violent Crimes Section." "We're not being sent on another stakeout, are we, sir?" "No, Scully, nothing of the sort. I just spoke to the SAC, and he told me that the local DC police picked up our suspects at approximately 1:15am this morning. It seems after they made their getaway from the both of you, they managed to hit three more local banks before they were finally captured." "So, what's the unusual request, sir?" Mulder finally spoke. I wondered if he was going to stay tight-lipped during the whole meeting. But his curiosity had been piqued, and so was mine. "The suspects said that they wouldn't talk to anybody but you two. They said they were quite impressed that they managed to get away from you." "Through no fault of our own, sir." "Yes, I understand. After the SAC got done blowing off steam about the way the stakeout went down, he wanted to apologize, but by then, the both of you were off on annual leave. He told me that the car you were driving had a leak in the gas tank. That's why the car stalled on you. Anyway, DCPD are holding them downtown. You're to talk to the suspects at 11am." "Thank you, sir. Is that all?" "Yes. No. Actually, I was curious." "About what, sir?" "Your vacation--how did it go?" "Oh, it went well, sir." "And you, Mulder?" "Let's just say that it was a very enlightening experience, sir." "OK, that'll be all for now, Agents. You're dismissed." We left the office, and made our way to the elevator. "Do you think he knows, Mulder?" "No, I don't think he does. He's probably wondering who he has to piss off to get a month's vacation." "Mulder!" "C'mon, Scully! The SAC wanted to apologize, so why didn't he come see us when we got back? I'll tell you why. He was too embarrassed. He didn't want to admit that he should apologize to Spooky Mulder." "Or, the Ice Queen." "Scully, I didn't want to bring that up." "I know, but I know what the other agents say about us when they think we can't hear them. Sometimes, I think they just do it on purpose, just to see what kind of reaction we'll give them. But I'd never stoop to their level. Let them act like idiots if they want. I can't deny the things I've seen over the years." "Thanks, Scully." "For what?" "For still believing me. For putting up with me all this time." I grabbed his hand after we got off the elevator in the basement, and gave it a light squeeze. xxxxxxx She squeezed my hand after we got off the elevator to our basement office. I smiled down at her, just thankful that we can still talk like this. We had a couple of hours before our meeting with the bank robbery suspects. "So, Scully, wanna go for a walk? We've got nothing to do until eleven o'clock." "Sure. Where to?" "Out in the back of the building. We can get some fresh air." "OK, let's go." We walked around for a few minutes, before we sat down on a bench. It happened to be the same bench we sat on after we got back from our little excursion in Antartica. "Bring back memories, Mulder?" "Yes. We haven't been out here for quite a while." "Not since you came to get me in Antartica." "I'm glad that you didn't quit, Scully. I'm glad that you didn't quit the X-Files, and that you didn't quit *us*." "But there wasn't an *us* back then." "I know, but you know what I'm saying, don't you?" "Yes, I do." If I quit now, they win. "I wonder why they want to talk to us?" "I don't know, Mulder, but we'll find out soon enough. I'm curious myself. Looking back on that whole situation now, I can laugh about it." "You can?" "Yeah, remember our argument in Skinner's office about the car, the gas tank, and who gets to drive?" "Yes. Now that you mention it, it was pretty silly, wasn't it?" "Yes, it was!" She let out a hearty laugh, and I joined her. We sat for a few more minutes, then got up to walk around the building again. We didn't say anything the entire time. Every few seconds though, some parts of our bodies touched; a finger here, an arm or a leg there. We were the only two people out here right now, so I'm pretty sure if I took Scully in my arms at this very moment, and gave her a kiss, no one would observe us. But, I'm going to respect her rules about keeping our professional and personal lives separate. xxxxxxx I knew Mulder wanted to kiss me. I could feel it. We were touching each other, every few seconds as we walked around the building. I wanted to kiss him too. But we have rules to uphold. We walked around the building two more times before we headed back inside. 10:37am "Ready, Scully?" "Yeah, just let me get my jacket." "Here, let me help you." "Mulder, you don't have to do that." "I know, it's just that I wanted..." He didn't finish his sentence. After I got both my arms in the sleeves, he pulled me close, and quite soundly kissed me. "Mulder..." "Oooh, don't use that voice now, Scully, and don't be mad at me. I didn't forget about your rules, but..." "But what, Mulder?" "I just wanted to kiss you. Now, and not later, when we're both off from work. I didn't want to wait that long. I haven't seen you since Saturday." "What's the matter, Mulder? You gonna follow me around like a little puppy dog, 24/7?" "No, Scully, that's not what I--" I stopped him, and put my finger on his lips. "I know, Mulder, but you're going to have to start using some willpower." "OK, let's go. We'd better not be late." I drove us to the local station that Skinner mentioned in our meeting. We met up with the suspects in a small conference room promptly at 11am. Officers brought them in, with their wrists and ankles shackled. It went off without a hitch. Turns out the robbers only wanted to confess to us since we were the ones they got away from, in their words, 'by default.' They saw our car stall, and had a nice chuckle about it, as they made their getaway. Nice to know we can give a couple of crooks a good laugh. After the meeting was over, we filed our reports, and went back to the office. We had lunch at our desks, while we filed a report for Skinner and the SAC of Violent Crimes. By the time all that was finally done, it was quitting time. I asked Mulder if he had any plans for the holiday. "What holiday?" "Mulder! The Fourth of July is a week from today." "It is? I forgot all about it." "Bill and Charlie won't be able to make it this year to see Mom, so I thought I'd invite you over." "That's nice, Scully, but I know you don't get to see your mother much. You two need some time alone." "OK, but let me know if you change your mind." "I will. Goodnight, Scully." "Goodnight, Mulder." xxxxxxx Scully left to go home. I don't know why I just didn't say yes, especially if Bill wasn't going to be there. He I really can't deal with, but I like Scully's mom. It's just that every time we meet up, Scully's in some kind of crisis, and I don't want to bring up bad memories for her. I thought about my own mother, and wondered how it would've been if we had gotten the differences resolved between us before she died. xxxxxxx TUESDAY, JULY 4th MULDER'S APARTMENT 8:51am I woke up to a sunny Independence Day. Not a thing to do but enjoy my day off. And miss Scully terribly. I should've said yes. Oh well, guess I'll call the gunmen and see what they're up to. I was about to dial their number, when my phone rang. "Hello?" "Hello, Fox. It's Maggie Scully." "Hi! How are you, Mrs. Scully?" "I'm fine, but don't you think you could stop calling me Mrs. Scully now? We've known each other too long." "OK, but what should I call you?" "Well, all my friends call me Maggie. Why don't you try that?" "I don't know. Why don't I just call you Margaret instead?" "That's okay, Fox. I'd be honored if you call me by my given name. No one really started calling me Maggie until after I got married." "I wish I could've met him--your husband, that is. Just to see the man who gave Scully all her stubbornness." "Oh yes! Dana did get that from her father. He would've liked you, Fox. But, let me get to why I called. Could you come over here, around noon? I'd like to just spend some time with you and Dana." "Sure, I'll come. Should I bring something?" "No, just yourself. By the way, I've been meaning to ask you about your vacation in Chicago, but Dana keeps changing the subject. How did it go?" "It went great, Margaret. We had a good time together, once she got released from the hospital." "Now that's the only thing she would tell me about, which I really didn't want to know. The further Dana stays away from any hospital, the better." "I know. I was out of my mind when I heard the message her doctor left me on my answering machine." "I can imagine. But let's stop talking about this. It's too depressing! I'll let you go now. You can tell me all about Chicago when you get here. Goodbye, Fox." "Goodbye, Margaret." Incredible! I was feeling sorry for myself, and Scully's mom invites me over. Gotta love the Scully women. I took a shower, then got dressed. I didn't want to go over there empty-handed, so I stopped by a local grocery store to pick up a bottle of wine, and some flowers for Margaret. Got to make a good impression. I got to her house at 11:55, and rang the bell, with the gifts behind my back. xxxxxxx MARGARET SCULLY RESIDENCE 11:55am I heard the bell, and told Mom I would see who it was. "You aren't expecting anyone, are you?" "Yes. I invited a friend over." "Who?" "Open the door and find out." Now I'm curious. I open the door without looking through the peephole, and get a pleasant surprise. "Mulder! What are you doing here?" "I was invited by your mother. By the way, this is for you, and *these*, are for your mother." He pulled a bottle of wine from behind his back, which he handed to me. He also pulled a bouquet of flowers from his other hand, which he gave to my mother, when she stepped into the room. "Hello, Margaret. You look lovely today. I didn't know what kind of flower you liked, so I asked the florist to give me a variety." "They're beautiful, Fox. Thank you. Come on out to the backyard. Hope you like barbecue." "Sure do." He kissed my mother on the cheek when he gave her the flowers. What's going on here? I pulled Mulder aside when we got to the backyard. "What's going on, Mulder?" "I'm trying to make a good impression on your mother. I think it worked." "Yes, I can see that." I walked over toward my mother, and thanked her for inviting Mulder over. She still wanted to know what happened in Chicago, but I told her that we're together now, so what else did she need to know? "OK, Dana. I'll stop asking, since you obviously don't want to discuss it!" "Mom, it's not that I don't want to discuss it. I can still hardly believe it myself." "I understand. OK. I need to turn those ribs over. Fox! Could you help me over by the grill for a minute?" "Sure." Finally! I thought she'd never stop bugging me about that... xxxxxxx I knew what that meant. I saw Scully go inside the house, so Margaret had me cornered. She was going to ask me about Chicago. "So, Fox, how was Chicago?" "It was great, and before you start asking a whole lot of questions, I'll just tell you this..." So I gave her a short, abbreviated version of our vacation. She seemed satisfied. "Oh, Fox, that's wonderful! You two really got dressed up and went out to dinner?" "Yes, Margaret, we did. Scully was absolutely gorgeous." "I wish I had a picture of the two of you. Well, there'll be time for pictures later. OK, Dana coming's back out. Thanks for telling me, Fox." "My pleasure." "Any one care for a hot dog?" "Sure, Scully, I'd love one." "I'm going to bring my flowers out here. I'll be back in a minute." Scully and I both got a hot dog. We were both putting on some mustard and relish when Margaret called me over. "OK, Fox, I'm going to go over to a friend's for a while. That's why I called you over. I just wanted the two of you to have some time alone together. Don't tell Dana this, alright?" "It'll be our little secret." "There's some other things in the fridge, so you two just help yourselves." "Don't worry about it, Margaret. We'll have a good time. You have a good time, too. I'll take those." "Okay. 'Bye, Fox." "'Bye." xxxxxxx I saw my mother go back in the house. Mulder was bringing her flowers over to the table. "What happened, Mulder?" "Oh, nothing. Your mother forgot something, so she's going to the store. Hey, let's have those hot dogs before they get cold!" We sat down and ate the hot dogs. I checked on the ribs a few minutes later. "Your mother said there were some other things in the refrigerator." "OK, I'll get it. Be right back. Watch those ribs--I don't want them to burn!" I ran inside to get the rest of the food. xxxxxxx I saw Scully come back out with the food, and helped her bring it to the table. We had potato salad and fried chicken. "Oh good, potato salad. She even sprinkled paprika on top." "So?" "It's been years since she made it. Daddy didn't like potato salad. He didn't like all that mayonnaise and mustard mixed together. So, she would only make it for me, on a special occasion, or when I got sick." "Looks like the ribs are done. Got any sauce?" "Yeah, its in the kitchen, simmering on the stove. I'll get it." After she came back, we sat down and stuffed ourselves. When we were finished, we laid a blanket out under a tree, and had a drink. Margaret had some sodas on ice in a small cooler. Seems she thought of everything. "So, Mulder, think we gained about twenty pounds from all the food we ate?" "Does it matter? We'll work it off tomorrow chasing after somebody." "I think you may be right. Don't think I could chase anybody right now..." I knew how she felt. We were just laying here on the blanket. I had my fingers in her hair, and she had her hand on my stomach. We wouldn't be moving for some time. Scully fell asleep a few minutes later. 4:17pm "Hey sleepyhead! Wake up. I don't want to leave all these dirty dishes for Margaret when she gets back. Let's clean up." "OK, I'm awake. Why don't you clean the grill, and I'll take care of the dishes." "Deal." xxxxxxx I took all the dishes to the kitchen. I turned the radio on, and washed them all. Twenty minutes later, I was back outside, where Mulder was finishing up with the grill. "Wow, Mulder! You must be some kind of grill cleaning expert." "Years of practice from when I was a kid. Leave it to you to stick me with the dirty job, but I didn't mind." "I *hate* cleaning the grill. Hey, you better wash your hands off in the kitchen." "Yeah, you're right. Be back in a minute." He came back with the radio from the kitchen. "I switched it over to your favorite station." "Thanks, Mulder. Let's go sit back under the tree." We sat down, holding hands, just listening to the music. "It seems that my mother has ditched us, but I don't mind. Do you?" "No, not at all. I never told you about that dream I kept having in Chicago, did I?" "No, you didn't, but you don't have to, Mulder." "I want to." So I told her. I told her how much it scared me at first, but how I calmed down the last time I had it. "And the third time you had the dream, when I came back to you, and offered my hand, you knew we were going to be okay?" "Not at first, but when I read your note, I knew you wouldn't leave me, or the X-Files." "You're right, Mulder. I'm afraid you're stuck with me." "That won't be a problem!" She laid her head on my chest. How is it that the most simple of touches between us are the nicest? I closed my eyes, and soon I was drifting off to sleep. xxxxxxx 6:15pm "Hey, Mulder! Wake up!" "OK, I'm awake. You're eating?" "Yes, I wanted more potato salad. Have some with me." "Sure. You know, we never opened that bottle of wine. Want some?" "Sounds good. It's on the kitchen table, with the bottle opener." "I know." He came back with the bottle opened, and two glasses. "What should we toast to, Mulder?" "I don't know. Wait, I've got it. To your mother Margaret, and to potato salad with paprika sprinkled on top. Cheers!" "Cheers! Here, have some..." I fed him a forkful of the salad, and asked him about this 'Margaret' business. "We decided on it together just today, Scully." "I wasn't complaining, Mulder. I like it." We finished the rest of the salad on my plate, and had another glass of wine. When my favorite song came on the radio, we both jumped up. "You didn't call the station, did you?" "No, Scully, guess you just got lucky." "No, *we* got lucky. Dance with me?" "Of course." We put our arms around each other, and held each other close. I looked up at him when the song was over. "That's it, Mulder. I've decided that Europa is officially *our* song now." "Great. I love you, Scully. That will never change." "Never?" "Not while I'm alive." "That's good to hear, 'cause I love you, too." I put my hands around his neck, and pulled him towards me for a kiss. "Wow! Takes my breath away every time, Scully." "Me too, Mulder." "Hey, you two! Having fun without me?" xxxxxxx We pulled away from each other. I think we were both slightly embarrassed that Scully's mother caught us in a semi-intimate moment. Almost like a couple of teenagers caught necking on the couch in the dark! "Margaret! That was a very long trip to the store!" "Yes. Yes, it was." "Mom, you could've stayed with us." "I know, but I wanted you two to have some quality time together." "Thanks, Mom. Mulder and I had a good time, but I think we should be going." "Alright. Hope I wasn't interrupting anything?" "No, you weren't." Scully blushed! I thanked Margaret, and Scully and I went to our cars. I told her to call me when she got home. 8:03pm "I'm home, Mulder. Sorry I didn't call earlier." "That's okay. Your mother is incredible..." We said our goodnights, then I went to bed. The rest of the week just flew by at the office. xxxxxxx WEDNESDAY, JULY 12th After I got home, my mother called. She told me to come right over. She sounded really excited for some reason. When I got there, she shoved a box in my hands, told me to go over to Mulder's, and *not* to open it until I got there. Okay. So I drive over to his place with the mystery present. 6:17pm "Mulder, it's me." "What are you doing here?" "My mother said to bring this over, and not to open it until I got here." "Come in, and we'll see what it is." We opened the box, and found pictures of us in frames. It obviously was taken on the Fourth of July at her home. She took the pictures when we were dancing together. "There's a note here for you, Mulder." xxxxxxx I opened the envelope that simply said, 'Fox' on it. "Your mother says when she got back, she saw us dancing, and she had to get a picture of us. She also says, 'Cherish the moments you have together.' That was nice of her." "Yes, it was. Hey, Mulder! Two more frames are in the box." We pulled them out, and unwrapped the tissue paper from them. They were smaller than the other ones. The larger ones looked to be about 8X10, and these were about 5X7. "So, that's what we look like when we kiss." "Wow, Mulder, these are really nice. We look good together, don't we?" "Yes we do. Now we have something to look at before we go to bed. I love you." "And I love you, Mulder." We kissed, then I sent Scully home with her pictures. She called me when she got back. "Have sweet dreams tonight, Mulder. I know I will." *To Be Continued...* COME BACK TO ME I: FRIENDS & LOVERS By mulder42 PART FOUR: THE SECRET XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Things haven't been the same Since you came into my life You found a way to touch my soul And I'm never, ever, ever, gonna let it go Happiness lies in your own hand It took me much too long to understand How it could be Until you shared your Secret with me... Something's comin' over Mmm-mmm something's comin' over Mmm-mmm something's comin' over me My baby's got a secret You gave me back the paradise That I thought I lost for good You helped me find the reasons why It took me by surprise that you understood You knew all along What I wanted to say Until I learned to love myself I was never ever lovin' anybody else Happiness lies in your own hand It took me much too long to understand How it could be Until you shared your Secret with me... MONDAY, JULY 24th FBI HEADQUARTERS X-FILES OFFICE 8:32am Another Monday, and once again Scully's not here. I just got off the phone with Skinner, and he gave me the bad news. She's taking *another* personal day. I can't believe it. I thought things had changed, but I guess I was wrong. I've got to find out what's happening with her. It feels like she's slowly slipping away from me. I decided to give her a call. One ring. Two rings. Come on... Then the answering machine clicks on. "Scully, if you're there, please pick up. Please, don't be screening your calls." Still no answer. "Dammit, Scully! Pick up the phone! OK, this is getting me nowhere. Whenever you get this message, please call me. We really need to talk." xxxxxxx I couldn't answer him. I was in a hurry. I had to leave within the next five minutes, ore risk being late for my appointment. But I'm going to have to tell him. And it's going to have to be soon. This is going to be more difficult than I thought. When I first decided, I thought it would be easy. Boy, was I wrong. A half hour later, I made it to the clinic, with only a couple minutes to spare. Thank goodness this is the last doctor I'll see before I make my final decision. And then tell Mulder. Can't lose my nerve now... xxxxxxx The day went by very slowly. It always does when Scully isn't here. I twiddled my thumbs, threw some pencils up at the ceiling, and watched one of those movies 'that aren't mine' that Scully always teases me about. It had been awhile since I watched one. Right before I went to Chicago, in fact. I went out for an early lunch, and when I got back, I received a call from the gunmen. Something about a new computer chip they had *acquired*. So I went over to their place to check it out. It was nothing spectacular. They made it sound like it was the technological find of the century! I don't know; I guess I just wasn't interested. Too busy worrying about Scully. I went back to the office, with nothing to do. I didn't want to just sit here, so I started to go over some old cases, which held my interest until quitting time. Finally, I can go home. 6:15pm When I got to the door, I heard my phone ringing, so I rushed in, hoping to hear from Scully. It turned out to be a wrong number. Okay, I'll give her until seven o'clock, then I'm calling her. To occupy my time, I feed my fish, have a leftover pizza slice, and channel surf. Of course, nothing's on that I'm interested in. The Knicks and the Yankees don't play until tomorrow night. So I turn on the radio, which is still on the smooth jazz station. I sit on the couch and close my eyes, trying not to think of anything that could be terribly wrong with her... xxxxxxx 6:57pm I make it back home, and I've come to my final decision. I like this doctor, so I'll definitely go with her. I can hardly believe it. I'm actually going to go through with it. I looked at my picture of Mulder and me, and I couldn't stop the tears that had been threatening to fall ever since I stepped through my door. The phone ringing finally broke me out of my reverie. "Hello?" "Scully, it's me. Are you alright?" "Yes, Mulder, I'm fine. I'm sorry I didn't call you back earlier, but I just got back home." "Can I come over there? I'd like to talk to you face to face." "No, Mulder." "Why not?" "It's not a good time now." "When will be a *good* time?" "I don't know. When I find out, I'll let you know." "Okay, Scully. If that's the way you want it. I just don't want you shutting me out." "I'm not, Mulder. Truly, I'm not. It's just not...I'll see you tomorrow. Goodnight." xxxxxxx She hung up on me before I could say I love you. Guess I should know by now that when she's ready to discuss something with me, she'll let me know. I just don't want to wait too much longer to hear whatever's going on with her. MONDAY, AUGUST 7th It's been two weeks. Two weeks since she took her last personal day. When she was late today, I expected the worst. But she showed up at 8:15, all bright-eyed. I figured she must've overslept again, but it turns out she went grocery shopping before she came to the office. The day went by quickly, and Scully flew out of the office, not looking back at me to say goodbye. She was just gone. xxxxxxx I had to hurry. I didn't have time to waste. I rushed right home and got started on dinner. I called Mulder an hour later. "Mulder, it's me." "Scully! I'm surprised to hear from you." "Mulder, could you come over here at 8:30? I'm ready to talk now. I know you've been wondering what's been going on with me." "Sure, I'll come over." "Good! It'll be nice to finally tell you my secret." "Your secret?" "Yes. I haven't told you, so it's been a secret I've kept from you." "Do I even want to hear it?" "Yes, Mulder, you will. Guaranteed. I'll see you later." xxxxxxx She clicked off. So, I was finally going to find out what's been bugging her all these weeks. I quickly got dressed. I wanted to be there early. 8:10pm I'm sitting here in my car, just wondering if I should go up now. I wanted to know what was bothering her for so long-- why can't I just go up there and see her? xxxxxxx 8:29pm I heard a knock at my door. I wondered when he would show up... "Just a minute!" I wiped my mouth off, and ran towards the door. "Hello, Mulder. Come on in!" "Something smells good. And you've got some of it on your cheek." "What? Oh! The sauce--I thought I got it all. Everything's ready. I hope you're hungry. I made spaghetti." "Sure, Scully. But I thought you wanted..." "Let's eat first, okay?" "OK. I don't have a problem with that. Got any wine?" "Yes. Right there by the refrigerator. I've just been waiting for you to show up before I had any." Mulder grabbed the bottle and the opener, then sat down. I had the table set already, and the glasses were waiting. He poured us some, while I got the food. "It's not my grandmother's lasagna, but I hope you like it, too." "I'm sure I'll love it." xxxxxxx She served us two really big helpings, along with two breadsticks. "Dig in!" I watched her all during dinner, trying to make small talk. She was doing an awfully bad job at it. She was on her third glass of wine once we finished, while I was still on my first. Why is she so nervous? She took our plates, put them in the sink, and excused herself. "But Scully, aren't we going to ta--" "I know. Just give me a few minutes, please?" I watched her walk towards the bathroom. She slammed the door. I went over to the couch, and waited for her to come out. It took quite awhile. xxxxxxx I knew this would be hard, and now that its here, I'm a nervous wreck. I can't imagine what Mulder is thinking right now, as I sit here in the bathroom, trying to calm down. I splashed some cold water on my face, and looked at my reflection in the mirror, as the drops rolled down my cheeks. I grabbed a towel and dried my face. I took a deep breath and held it for a few seconds, before letting it out. I went to the door, and opened it. I've got to do this now-- no turning back. I was ready to face Mulder, but as I got out the door to walk towards the couch, my feet took me to the window instead... xxxxxxx I saw Scully finally come into the living room, after 15 minutes. I got up, but she walked straight towards the window, not looking at me. Now I'm really worried. I walk over to her, and put my hands on her shoulders. She nearly jumped out of her skin when I touched her! This is really starting to scare me. "Scully, what's wrong? You're shivering!" She doesn't answer, so I turn her around to face me. She looks at me, and her eyes start to water, but no tears fall. "Scully, you're really scaring me. What's wrong? Are you ill?" "No, Mulder. Nothing's wrong. Wait. That's not entirely true. Something is wrong." She closed her eyes, and looked down at the floor before she continued. "Mulder, I'd like to ask you a very personal question, but I'm not sure how to go about it." "Scully, you know you can ask me anything. We've known each other too long. Go on and ask--I won't be embarrassed, if that's what you're worried about. Let's go sit down, okay?" I took her hands, and led her over to the couch. We sat down facing each other. Scully looked at me with such a perplexed look on her face, so I gave her one of my best smiles, hoping she would open up and tell me what's on her mind. "Mulder, before I ask the question, I'd just like to say again how sorry I am for my behavior towards you with Emily. I know you grieved as much as I did when she died..." xxxxxxx I watched Mulder's smile turn into a look of total confusion, so I finished what I had to say to him. "Mulder, I'd like to ask you to be an artificial insemination donor for me. I'd really like to have another child. But you don't have to answer right now. I know this must be quite shocking for you to hear!" "Scully, how long have you thought about this?" "Quite a while, actually. But I didn't seriously go about it until we got back from Chicago. That's why I've taken all those personal days. I've been going to doctors, trying to find some answers on whether or not I can still conceive a child. After going through many options, I've decided that artificial insemination would be best for me. The problem is, who would be the donor? My first thoughts were of you, but I don't know if you would want to do something like this with me. This would be a big step in your life..." xxxxxxx I was very touched that she would be so open with me. I can see now why she's been so distant. I pulled her towards me for a hug. "Oh, Scully," I said, as I put my arms around her waist, and sighed. "I'd gladly be a donor for you. But, there *is* another option..." I felt Scully pull away from me, then we looked at each other, not saying a word for a few seconds. Then, Scully grabs my hand. I'm pretty sure she knew what I was going to suggest, but wanted me to say it first. "What option is that, Mulder?" "You know--the old-fashioned way." "Mulder, you don't mean?" "You know exactly what I mean, Scully." I looked at her, took her hand, and lightly kissed her palm. Scully closed her eyes, and licked her lips. "You know I love you, Dana. All I want is to make you happy. We've known each other for so many years, and the connection between us no one can break. We should be able to do this without science getting in the way, don't you think?" "Mulder, I know we decided to take this slow, but I'm not..." "Scully, I just don't want to hop into bed with you. I want it to be perfect in every way. It's still not the right time, I know, but I'll see your doctor and find out about this for myself, alright?" "OK. Thanks, Mulder." "No problem. Have you thought about what you want--a boy or a girl?" "I never really thought that far ahead, Mulder. It doesn't really matter, as long as you're the daddy..." xxxxxxx Mulder and I smile at each other. We put our arms around each other, and lean back on the couch, just enjoying the silence. No more words need to be said. I close my eyes, finally happy that I was able to tell him everything. After a few minutes, I feel his finger under my chin, and I look up at him. He leans down, and gently kisses me on the mouth. Then we hold hands. I didn't tell him that night, but Mulder just made me the happiest woman in the world. *To Be Continued...* "Secret" is by Madonna, from her album BEDTIME STORIES. Author Notes in Part One. This section is rated R. COME BACK TO ME I: FRIENDS & LOVERS By mulder42 PART FIVE: THE RAIN XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Making love in the rain, I can't believe the joy it brings me And when I'm all alone, I hear the rain on my window It's just a little thing, but it means so much to me Our bodies together, while the rain plays a melody Every raindrop makes me think of you (Wishing you were close to me) There is nothing that I'd rather do Than Making love in the rain, I can't believe the joy it brings me And when I'm all alone, I hear the rain on my window When it's stormy outside, it's calm in my heart, with you in my arms And when you're away from me, I wish it would rain 'cause it's always the same Every raindrop makes me think of you (Wishing you were close to me) There is nothing that I'd rather do (Rather do) Than Making love in the rain, I can't believe the joy it brings me (I can't believe) And when I'm all alone, I hear the rain on my window (On my window) Making love in the rain, I can't believe the joy it brings me (Oh, oh making love) And when I'm all alone, I hear the rain on my window (On my window, I hear the raindrops flow) Every raindrop makes me think of you (Wishing you were close to me) There is nothing (Nothing) That I'd rather do than (That I'd rather do than) Making love in the rain, I can't believe the joy it brings me (Oh, oh making love) And when I'm all alone (All alone) I hear the rain on my window (On my window, I hear it rain, yeah) Making love in the rain, I can't believe the joy it brings me Ooh, ooh ooh yeah All alone, I hear the rain, I hear the rain Oh, oh, oh My love, here comes the rain My love, here comes the rain My love, here comes the rain My love, here comes the rain... THURSDAY, AUGUST 24th FBI HEADQUARTERS X-FILES OFFICE 10:13am The day started like any other normal day. We had paperwork to finish, so things were kind of hectic. I don't even remember how it all got started, but it went downhill from there. He said something, I took offense, and an argument ensued. So, here we sit, yelling at each other, sometimes getting out of our chairs, and pointing fingers. It went like this, back and forth, for over five minutes. It's a good thing we're down in the basement. We would have seriously embarrassed ourselves if anyone witnessed it. The ringing of the phone stopped everything. It seems that I've been reassigned to Quantico for the day. I tell him that I would like nothing more than to be out of his presence right now. And now I have a good excuse... xxxxxxx It was so stupid, I know. I couldn't help myself. Just trying to break the monotony of a boring day, doing paperwork with her. I said something totally stupid. It was meant as a joke, but she took it the wrong way. That's when the shouting match got started. It was so unbelievable. I can't believe we sat there, screaming at each other--like little kids on the playground! If our boss could see us now, he'd probably fire us right on the spot. When the phone rang, I was glad. Maybe this could end now. I picked it up in my usual nonchalant manner, and after a couple of okays, I hung up. I gave her the bad news--she has to teach class for the rest of the day. Which is very good news to me... xxxxxxx FBI ACADEMY QUANTICO, VA 2:34pm I don't think I've ever been that angry at him in my entire life. It didn't help me the rest of the day. I was cranky towards my students--they probably thought I was a real bitch--not the best condition for teaching class. I tried to calm down, but somehow I couldn't shake it all day. I was relieved when it was all over and I could finally go home. xxxxxxx 4:14pm I tried to calm down--really I did. But it was no use. I know it was my fault, but why did she have to take it that way? Skinner told me he'd have my ass in a sling if I didn't have all the reports done by close of business. He means business, so I got to work, just happy I had some peace and quiet. I felt empty inside, too. How was I going to get rid of that feeling? xxxxxxx SCULLY'S APARTMENT 6:37pm Finally, I make it home. I was on my feet all day, and I was tired. So tired I didn't really want to do anything but go to bed. I had forgotten how exhausting teaching could be. I hadn't eaten anything since breakfast, so I made a sandwich, and dragged myself to the bedroom. That's when it started to rain. I ate my sandwich, then changed clothes for bed. My phone starts to ring. I knew who it was, but decided not to answer it. xxxxxxx MULDER'S APARTMENT 7:17pm I called her as soon as I stepped through my door. I know she's home--I called Quantico to make sure. Got nothing but her answering machine. Where could she be in this downpour? I know--she's just not answering the phone. I've got to go over there and see if I can fix this! But first, I grab an apple that's sitting on my table, take a bite, and go change clothes. Fifteen minutes later, I'm back in the car, driving to her place. I've had this feeling in the pit of my stomach all day, and I had hoped she would pick up on it, but that totally backfired. When I got there, I knocked hard on her door. No answer. I know she's there--her living room lamp is on. So I used my key, and let myself in. It was dark everywhere except for the lamplight, and a glow I saw coming from her bedroom. I slowly headed in that direction. She was lying on the bed, wearing that purple nightgown she wore in Chicago, and watching the rain. On her nightstand, she had a candle burning next to her Melissa and Emily pictures. Our picture was behind it. The radio was softly playing. I thought that maybe she hadn't heard me come in, so I was going to make my presence known, since her back was to me. She beat me to it. "What are you doing here, Mulder?" "I could ask you the same question, Scully." "Well, since it's *my* place, I'm doing what I damn well please. I'm watching the raindrops hit the window." "Scully, please, would you look at me?" "Why?" "Because I'd like to see your face." "Why? Go home. I don't want you here." "Sure you do." "Oh! So now you know what I'm thinking?" "Of course." I stopped, and let that linger in the air for a moment. Still, Scully would not look at me. "I'm trying to apologize. I'm sorry about the things I said this morning..." xxxxxxx He started to use 'that voice,' knowing it would melt my resolve. Just then, the thunder boomed, and he rushed to the bed after I flinched. He gently touched my shoulder. "I thought you would pick up on what I was feeling. Guess I was wrong. Silly me. Can we try to forget this day, and try to have a better night?" "How can we do that?" xxxxxxx I laid down next to her, and put my arms around her waist. Just then, a song came on that seemed to fit how things were going at that moment... Let me hold you tight If only for one night Let me keep you near To ease away your fear It would be so nice If only for one night I won't tell a soul No one has to know If you want to be...totally discreet I'll be at your side If only for one night If only for one night Your eyes say things I never hear from you And my knees are shaking too But I'm willing, willing to go through I must be crazy standing in this place But I'm feeling no disgrace For asking Let me hold you tight If only for one night Let me keep you near To ease away your fear It would be so nice If only for one night If only for one night... We listened to the song in silence. The tension in the air was so thick, you could cut it with a knife. When the song was over, I pulled her closer to me, and whispered in her ear. xxxxxxx I felt him pulling me closer to his body. My throat suddenly got dry. He whispered in my ear, "I need you, Dana. I want you--right now..." I closed my eyes, and took a deep breath. Finally, I had the courage to turn around and face him. When we looked at each other, we both knew there'd be no turning back tonight. I put my hand on his chest, and felt his heart pounding wildly. I'm sure mine was doing the exact same thing. Mulder got off the bed, and started lighting the candles I had placed all around the room. I sat up, and turned the radio off. When he was finished, he joined me back on the bed. "Mulder, don't you think you're overdressed?" "Care to rectify that?" "Gladly." "Why did you wear this tonight? You have some kind of premonition?" "Not at all. I was still angry, and I grabbed the first thing I saw in my closet. Like it?" "You know I do. Ever since that night I first saw you in it, I've been dreaming about this moment. Looks like it's going to come true." "Glad I could fulfill your fantasy." As I started to help him get undressed, slowly making a pile on the floor, Mulder told me to shut up and kiss him, so I did. "I never thought it would truly happen, Scully. I always wanted our first time to be right here, in your bed." "Shhh! Don't you know you talk too much, Mulder? Shut up and kiss me!" xxxxxxx I pulled the straps of her gown down, and lightly kissed both of her shoulders. I saw Scully gasp, then bite her bottom lip. I put my hands on her breasts, just testing their weight against my fingers. I loved the sensation it gave me. Scully put her hands on my chest, reached down, and helped me pull the t-shirt over my head. One of her hands reached down a little further, right at the waistband of my jeans, and I shivered. "Ooh, what a reaction!" "I could say the same about you, Scully." Our emotions were going everywhere. I pulled her close to me, blazing a trail of slow, wet kisses, from her earlobe, down to her neck, and back up again. Scully was slowly running her hands up and down my back. "Too many clothes..." "OK, but it's no turning back now." "Do you see me complaining?" I slipped out of my jeans and underwear, and Scully took off her gown. We just stared at each other for a few seconds. "I'll never regret this, Mulder." "Neither will I. You're so beautiful, Scully." "So are you." We could resist each other no longer, and our lips came together. Hungrily we tasted each other, tongues rolling together, until we were both out of breath. I lowered her down to the bed, whispering to her, unintelligible words of love. xxxxxxx He lowered me down on the bed, and I put my hands on him, exploring those spots I hadn't the pleasure of touching before. He nearly drove me crazy; he was saying something to me, but I couldn't make out what. The only thing I could hear was I love you. 9:30pm Afterwards, we just lay in each other's arms. The rain had finally stopped, so it was very quiet. I rolled over onto my stomach, and Mulder used his finger to trace patterns on my back. His lips followed. I had forgotten all about my ouroboros tattoo, and when he traced the circular shape, and placed a kiss there, I stopped breathing. I pulled on my robe, got off the bed, and walked towards the window. xxxxxxx When I kissed her tattoo, Scully went totally still. She put on her robe, got off the bed, and walked towards the window. "What is it? Did I do something wrong?" "No! No, it's not you, Mulder. Tonight has been wonderful. You were incredible. I loved every minute of it. It's just that tattoo. It only brings back bad memories for me." "It's beautiful, Scully. Don't ever regret getting it." "I do nothing but regret it, Mulder." She continued staring out the window, not looking at me. I knew she was ready to tell me something really important, so I waited for her to continue. "This all goes back to Leonard Betts. When he attacked me in that ambulance, he told me that I had something he needed." I was trying to put my jeans back on, but as soon as I heard that, I let them slip back down my legs, and I stepped out of them. I rushed over to her side. "Why didn't you ever tell me?" "I don't know. That was a lot to take in. I just wanted to go home. I woke up in the middle of the night with a nosebleed. You know what that means, Mulder! He knew I had cancer before I did. I didn't want to believe it. I *couldn't* believe it. And then you took vacation time, and sent me on that stupid case in Philadelphia. We had that awful argument. We were both angry at each other. And then I met Ed Jerse, and got the tattoo." xxxxxxx I knew this was a touchy subject between us. I tried extra hard to keep the details of the whole situation under wraps. I know Mulder had his suspicions, so now was the time to set him straight. "I just wanted to feel something. I wanted to feel alive. Looking back on it now, I can see I wasn't in a rational state of mind. But let me just tell you this, because I know you've always wondered, but never asked. I did not sleep with him, Mulder. We kissed a few times, but that's all. It turned out he was quite the gentleman. I slept in his bed, and he stayed on the couch. That is, before that ink from his tattoo turned him into a raving madman. I *did* want to sleep with him, and I *didn't* want to sleep with him. Does that make sense?" "Yes, I understand, Scully. You just wanted to *feel*. I just wish you'd told me about it. I could've been a shoulder to cry on." "I know. I'm sorry..." He put his arms around me, and I leaned back into his embrace. Mulder really was an incredible man, and a caring, patient, and gentle lover. "I love you, Mulder. That will never change." "Never?" "Never. Not while I'm alive." "That's good to hear. Could you come back to bed, please?" "Of course." xxxxxxx I led her over to the bed. I slipped out of my underwear once again, but when Scully started to take off her robe, I stopped her. "Let me do that," I said. I slowly moved the robe down, revealing one creamy shoulder at a time. Scully reached over to my shoulders, and straddled me. "Make me feel alive, Mulder!" I put my hands on her breasts and kissed them, taking them into my mouth, loving them, and loving her. Scully really was an amazing woman. How much we've been through together. "I'll spend the rest of my life proving how much I love you, Dana." "I've already got the proof, Mulder." "What is it?" "The look in your eyes gives me all the proof I need." So, we spent the rest of the night proving how much to each other. And the rain started to fall again, the raindrops beating a melody against the window. *To Be Continued...* "If Only For One Night" is by Luther Vandross, from his album THE NIGHT I FELL IN LOVE. "Making Love In The Rain" is by Herb Alpert, with vocals by Janet Jackson & Lisa Keith, from his album KEEP YOUR EYE ON ME. COME BACK TO ME I: FRIENDS & LOVERS By mulder42 PART SIX: FRIEND...OR FOE? XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX MONDAY, AUGUST 28th SCULLY'S APARTMENT 8:53am I got a late start again! What is wrong with me? Better reset my alarm clock. I was getting my jacket on, and ready to leave, when I found a newspaper at my doorstep. The Goochland Guardian. In Goochland, Virginia. I seem to be the only one who has received this. The headline says, 'Miracle Ends Controversy.' According to the article, a young boy with cancer was cured by angels. Mulder would love to hear about this one. I got in my car, and drove to the office. xxxxxxx FBI BUILDING X-FILES OFFICE 9:53am "Scully, good morning! You know, you really should reset your alarm clock." "I know, Mulder, but if you hadn't kept me up all night..." "Ahh, no excuses!" "OK. I found something very interesting at my door this morning." "Yeah, Scully, before you get started, there's this boy in Virginia who was miraculously cured by angels!" "I don't believe it! Are you talking about Jason McPeck?" "Yes, how did you know?" I showed him my newspaper. "It seems someone wants us on this case, Mulder." "I agree. I received an anonymous e-mail from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency." "DARPA?" "Yes. I think you should check out the boy, Scully. I'm going over to DARPA to see what I can find." "Yeah, I'll call you if anything 'miraculous' shows up." Mulder turned around to smile at me before leaving. I read the newspaper article again, before leaving myself. McPECK RESIDENCE GOOCHLAND, VA I introduced myself to Jason's parents, Irene and Cameron. At first, they were a little apprehensive, but when I explained that I was curious about Jason's recovery, they relaxed. His mother called him inside from playing with friends in the backyard. Jason told me that the 'angels' came out of the sky in a ball of light, and that they looked like regular people. "They told me not to be afraid, and one of them pinched me on the back of my neck, and I felt better right away." "Can you show me?" I didn't really need to see it. I knew what it would look like. After asking Jason's parents a couple more questions, I made a hasty exit. Only to get quite a surprise when I got back to my car. The Smoking Man. "What are you doing here? Get out of my car!" "I'm here to help you, Dana." "Look, I don't need your help, CGB, or whatever the hell your name is." "So, you know about me." "I know enough. Now, get out of my car, and put out that cigarette!" "Ah, but I haven't told you my story yet..." So he told me that he had orchestrated this whole thing. The chip in Jason's neck; the newspaper to me; and the e- mail to Mulder. He also mentioned that he was dying himself. He *did* look sick. In fact, I didn't know how he could still be walking around. He was like a corpse--pale, and gaunt. He said that if I told Mulder, he'd keep the cure to himself. He dropped a business card on the seat, then left. The only thing on it was a DC area phone number. I put a trace on it when I got back to the office, only to find the number disconnected. xxxxxxx MULDER'S APARTMENT 8:17pm I hadn't heard from Scully yet, but I wasn't worried. The investigation just probably got a little more complicated. My machine was flashing at me, so I played it. "Mulder, it's me. I've got to be out of town for a few days. Family emergency. Don't worry about me. I'll...I'll call you when I get a chance." That didn't sound right. I called her number. No answer. I called her cell. No answer there, either. Something's not right here. I called Margaret. I didn't want to scare her, so I said I thought Scully was going to see her today. She said she hadn't heard from Dana for a couple of weeks. All the warning bells are going off. I'm going over to her apartment right now, and get to the bottom of this. xxxxxxx SCULLY'S APARTMENT 8:21pm I heard the phone ringing. I knew who it would be, but I couldn't answer it. I heard the message he left me. He really sounded desperate. I turned my cell phone off, but I'm probably sure he called that number too. I closed my eyes, and took a deep breath. I had picked up some surveillance equipment before I came home, and I was now adjusting the microphone in my bra. I hope this works. I rechecked my bag, before leaving the apartment with the Smoking Man in tow. We got in the car, and he told me to drive. He would provide the directions. After a few minutes, he lit up a cigarette. I told him if he wanted to smoke, he'd have to do it outside. He threw the cigarette out the window. Hours went by. Night turned into day. So he decided to tell me my life story. "You're not being honest with yourself. Think back. There was a time when you feared for your future, for your career when you were first partnered with this man." I looked at him, while he continued. "You're drawn to powerful men but you fear their power. You keep your guard up, a wall around your heart. How else do you explain that fearless devotion to a man obsessed, and yet, a life alone? You'd die for Mulder but you won't allow yourself to love him." Obviously he hasn't done all of his homework. He told me to make a left turn up ahead. He wants me to meet a 'friend' first. xxxxxxx I went to Scully's apartment. As soon as I smelled the cigarette smoke, I panicked. After I got to the office, I went to see Skinner. "Sir, Scully's in trouble." "What's this all about?" "Our cigarette-smoking friend--he's got her." "How?" "I don't know, sir. She said she had a family emergency, but her mother knows nothing about it. Sir, we have to find her!" "OK--calm down, Mulder. I'll make a few calls." Skinner's phone rang. It was his private number. He picked it up. "Skinner. Agent Scully, where are you?" I watch him as he listened to her, then start to walk over to his side of the desk. "Why don't you tell him yourself? He's here in the office with me. That's okay. Here's Mulder." When I finally get the phone, I only hear a dial tone. "How is she, sir?" "She says she's fine." I walked out of Skinner's office. I knew what I had to do next. xxxxxxx TUESDAY, AUGUST 29th We ended up meeting a woman, Marjorie Butters, who the Smoking Man claimed was 118 years old. I noticed that she also had a scar at the base of her neck. We went inside, and she served us fresh-baked bread. Afterwards, back on the road, we stopped at a gas station. While he pumped the gas, I excused myself to go to the restroom. Making sure no one was inside, I left Mulder an urgent message with instructions to where we had been driving. I got the tape out of the recorder, and put it in an envelope. I had the stamp already attached, but in my haste to leave the apartment, I neglected to write his name and address down. I quickly scribbled it, walked out the door, and straight to the mailbox I had noticed earlier. I found the Smoking Man in the driver's seat when I got back to the car. He told me to expect another long drive. I hoped it wouldn't take too long for Mulder to receive the tape. xxxxxxx WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30th MULDER'S APARTMENT 1:04am I jumped off my couch when I heard pounding on my door. It was the gunmen in disguise, claiming that someone was following them. They checked Scully's computer, and told me that she had been receiving e-mails from a mysterious informant named Cobra. "Who is he? Scully would've told me about him." Frohike said: "We can't figure it out." Langly said: "It looks like she kept this from you." Byers said: "We can't find her, Mulder. There's nowhere to look." "There's always somewhere to look." After I checked Scully's laptop myself, I was satisfied that the gunmen had done all they could. I stayed up the rest of the day, hoping to get a phone call from her. xxxxxxx I woke up at a hotel very groggy. And, I was in my pajamas! That bastard! I walked out of the bedroom, where I found him, pouring coffee. "Care for a cup?" "You drugged me!" "I did nothing of the sort." "How did I get out of my clothes?" "The housekeeper. I asked her to help you. Look, you've been up over 30 hours. You were very tired." "Where are we?" "Milford, Pennsylvania." "This wasn't part of the deal. I'm going to change, and then I'm leaving." "You can't leave now. Not when you're so close." I went back to my room, and checked the tape. It was still there. That must've been quite a shock to the housekeeper. I looked outside for a mailbox, but I didn't see one. I decided to stick around a little longer. I didn't know what kind of game CGB was playing, but I figured I'd better see it through to the end. xxxxxxx 12:03pm I called the gunmen, and told them to meet me at Skinner's office. They can tell him what they told me. I played around on Scully's computer during the night, and found out someone pretending to be her received the e-mails. It's the only way it could have been done. This Cobra person works for the Department of Defense, and for the past six months, he's been e-mailing Scully. They're supposed to meet to exchange ideas. Could only be one person. The Smoking Man. I told everyone that if we didn't find her fast, we might not see her alive again. xxxxxxx MILFORD, PA 6:22pm I check my wire again, and hear a knock at the door. It's the Smoking Man, carrying a revealing black dress. Very nice, though I don't tell him that. "I just received instructions from our contact to meet for dinner tonight. I hope you like the dress. We meet at 8pm." I didn't say anything. I took the dress from him, and he left. There was no way I could wear the recording device with this! When eight o'clock rolled around, we went down to dinner. CGB told me about his informant, Cobra. He also told me that this person had the cure for all known human diseases. I asked him, "How can this be?" After a long pause, he told me it was "Extraterrestrial in nature. It could cure me, Dana. We can make this right--do our good deed for humanity. I'm a lonely man. Excuse me." He left the table. A waiter came, and placed a dessert in front of me. I didn't touch it. I took another sip of my wine, trying to process everything I've heard. It sounds so incredibly unbelievable. A few minutes later, the waiter came back, and took the desert away. Underneath was a note. From Cobra, I presume? It said: 'CALICO COVE. FIRST LIGHT OF DAY.' I notice that the man who was sitting behind us is gone. Could he have been my contact? THURSDAY, AUGUST 31st In the morning, I meet up with CGB at a dock. He has a motorboat waiting for me. He tells me Calico is 15 minutes away. I get in the boat to leave. When I get to Calico, I wait for Cobra. When he arrives in his own boat, I see that it wasn't the man I saw at dinner last night. My cigarette- smoking friend must have an accomplice. That's something to worry about later. He gives me a diskette. "This is it, the science I promised you." "Where did this come from?" "You're not Scully, are you?" "Yes, I'm Scully, but we've never corresponded before." Before he can say anything else, a shot rings out, and I see Cobra fall into the water. I try to reach his body, but the shots continue. I crouch in the boat, and drive back to the hotel. When I got back to the dock, I let CGB have it. "You son-of-a-bitch! This was a setup from the beginning, wasn't it?" "I don't know what you're talking about." "Oh, I think you do. Someone shot this Cobra person. And they tried to get me as well." "Did you get it?" "Yes! I got it. Here, take it. I'm through with your games!" I walked away. "Wait! This is for you. I don't need it." I was puzzled. Why was he giving the disk back to me? I took it, ran to my room, got my bag, jumped in the car, and called Mulder on my cell phone. He sounded relieved. xxxxxxx MULDER'S APARTMENT 3:37pm I wasn't expecting to see the gunmen when I got there. I gave them the disk, and they checked it out. Frohike says: "It's empty." "It can't be! Something has to be on there." Langly says: "There's nothing there." Byers says: "If something was there, it's gone now." I can't believe this. How could I be so stupid? I look over at Mulder, but he won't make eye contact with me. The room got really quiet. "Mulder?" He wouldn't say anything. I called his name again. Still silent. The gunmen took this as their cue to leave, so they did. When they were finally gone, I walked over to Mulder. "Mulder please, let me explain." "Explain what? How you could go off with that man?" "Mulder, he explained it all to me. He said he knew someone who would have the cure to all human disease. I met this woman, Marjorie Butters. Didn't you get my tape?" "I never got it, Scully." "That's it! The man in the restaurant; he must've been working with him. He took the tape, Mulder." "It doesn't matter now." "What do you mean it doesn't matter? I was almost killed trying to get this science!" "This *science* doesn't exist, Scully! He played you, and you fell for it. I just don't understand why!" He still wouldn't look at me, and this was making me very angry. "Yeah, call me an idiot to my face, why don't you? I already feel bad about the whole situation! What is it, Mulder? Are you pissed 'cause you got ditched this time? How does it feel to be the ditch*ee* instead of the ditch*er*?" "Dammit, Scully! That's not what I meant. Don't put words in my mouth. You know what that man is capable of! I just want to know why!" "Why? Maybe I wanted to do something good for the world. I don't know. I feel foolish. I'm going home. I'm so tired." "Scully..." "No, Mulder. I know you're disappointed with me. I'm disappointed with myself." xxxxxxx I watched her leave. I was still angry with her. I had a bad feeling about this. I thought Scully was smarter than that. All I knew was that if I ever saw the Smoking Man again, I was ready to put a bullet between his eyes. As for Scully and myself, it's no telling how this will change our relationship now. There's not enough trust... *To Be Continued...* COME BACK TO ME I: FRIENDS & LOVERS By mulder42 PART SEVEN: SHADOW BOXING XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Loving, fresh as the morning dew Sunrise talks just to you Nocturnal night one last adieu I'm coming, I'm going I'm swimming, I'm flowing I'm right here beside you babe Passion was not the answer Was not the question Yet it was all of this and more Your river and heartlight The ebb in the tide at night The do, in the do me babe I'm dreaming of, the one I love I fall into a slumber deep In eyes as black as ebony And if there ever was a spark It's when we're shadow boxing in the dark Shadow boxing in the dark Do I have to break it down for you For this is all the love I've found in you Ooo baby Loving, warm as a zephyr breeze Soft when you're touching me baby Rhythm inside--ooo--if you please I'm coming, I'm going I'm swimming, I'm flowing I'm right here beside you babe Here I am baby Hush my drunken heart again Savoring every moment of your love Wanting so much what's inside of you Needing your touch baby--what more can I do Do I have to break it down for you--oh baby For this is all the love I've found in you--oh darlin' Shadow boxing in the dark Shadow boxing in the dark Do me, do me I love you, I love you Shadow boxing baby in the dark I need to break it down babe Straight from my heart Do me, do me... SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9th X-FILES OFFICE 9:17am I headed towards the office door with a sense of dread. Mulder and I have hardly spoken one word to each other, at least not in private. We haven't seen each other unless it's been about this case. Which is why I am dragging myself here on a Saturday. He said it was 'very important' that I come, as usual. Why is it always so important? I don't know. I don't know much of anything anymore. I could hear music coming from the office once I got off the elevator. It was a very haunting melody. I've never heard it before. I got to the door, where I found Mulder, shaking his hips. I smiled while I took in the show unobserved, and listened to the lyrics. Something about storms breaking in the middle of the night, and rain pushing buildings aside? Very nice. I walked in to give him the news. "Mulder? Mulder!" I turned off his boom box. "So glad you came finally. I want you to take a look at these slides. They're really quite extraordinary..." "Mulder, I've got a partial file on the Szczesny autopsy report. You wanted me to bring it. That *is* why we're here, isn't it?" "Yes. Sit down." "Don't you want to read the file?" "Maybe later. Check these out." "What is it?" He turned the lights off and started the slide projector. "Crop circles, Mulder?" "Yes, computer-generated, actually." xxxxxxx I started to explain everything to her about this, but I was getting the impression that she wasn't listening to me. Scully seemed a million miles away. "Scully? Scully--are you listening to me?" "When do I not listen, Mulder? I heard everything you said. You were talking about a Mandelbrot Set?" "Yes. Glad you were paying attention. As I was saying..." xxxxxxx What I didn't tell him was that I was only half-listening to him. I could really care less about crop circles right now. "Mulder, why are we here?" "Why? Scully, I'm trying to tell you that in just about 48 hours, we'll get to see one up close." "See one where?" "In England, of course!" "No, Mulder. I'm not going." "Of course you're going. I've got two tickets for a 5:30 flight." "Mulder, in case you haven't noticed, I still have to go to the hospital for the rest of the paperwork on the autopsy you had me do! And, it's Saturday, Mulder." "So?" "So, don't you want to take a break? This could've waited until Monday." "If we wait until then, all the evidence could be gone." "I'm *not* going, Mulder." I glared at him. "Fine. Have it your way. I'll just cancel your ticket." "Mulder? Look, don't be like this. I'm just not interested in tracking down folks who want to be sneaky about making designs in a cornfield." I saw him walk away from the projector, and grab his jacket. "Where are you going?" "I've got to pack. I'll call you later." "Mulder..." He walked out of the office. Damn. After I calmed down a bit, I went to Washington National Hospital for the rest of the autopsy report. When I got to the nurses' station, it seemed like one of the nurses was tapping her pencil on the table in slow motion. I asked for the report, and when I started to read it, I got the shock of my life. Surely it couldn't be him? "Excuse me," I said to one of the nurses. "There seems to be a mistake here. This report is for a D. Waterston, not Ms. Szczesny." She got me the correct report. I asked about Waterston, and was told he was still a patient here. I couldn't believe it. I went to his room where I found a doctor talking to his daughter, Maggie. I hurried away when they prepared to leave. When they were gone, I went inside. Daniel. How long had it been since I'd seen him last? I just stood there, looking at him sleeping. He was so pale. A few minutes later I got caught by Daniel's doctor, a cardiologist named Paul Kopeikan. It seems Daniel has a very serious heart condition. This was a complete shock. I went home to let it all sink in. I sat on the bed just listening to the curtain pull hit the window. It seemed to be moving in slow motion. That's the second time that's happened today. What's happening to me? The phone ringing snapped me back to the present. Somehow, Maggie tracked me down. With venom spewing forth, she told me that her father wanted to see me. It seems Dr. Kopeikan told him about my visit. She hung up on me before I could reply. My phone rang again. It was Mulder. "Hello? Mulder, are you there?" I could hear another voice on the phone. Was it his television? I called his name again. xxxxxxx This is the third time I've called. I put it on speaker because I was expecting to get her machine again. I continued to pack, and was shocked when I heard her voice. "Mulder?" "Yeah, hey Scully, you're back." "Yes, I'm back. Shouldn't you be on a plane, Mulder?" "My flight is at 5:30, remember?" "Right. Guess I lost track of time." "Look, Scully, there's this group right here in DC that investigates crop circles as well. I'd like you to check it out for me." "No." "What do you mean, 'no'?" "I'm not going." "Scully! This researcher lives near the hospital, and all I need you to do is go there and pick up some data that they wouldn't fax to me." Silence, then I hear Scully sigh. "Scully--are you still there?" "Yes. Look, Mulder, I just need some time to myself today. Leave me a message on my answering machine, and if I feel like it later, I'll check it out." "OK, Scully, I'll--" She hung up. Damn. xxxxxxxx WASHINGTON NATIONAL HOSPITAL ROOM 306 I take a deep breath before I step into his room. Maggie is there. She glares at me, and leaves her father's bedside. Daniel and I look at each other for a few seconds, before I sit down. After making small talk, I ask him how he ended up here. "I've been here for quite a while, Dana." "Is that why you wanted to see me? To remind me once again what a bad choice I've made?" I look down at the floor; Daniel grabs my hand, brings it to his lips, and kisses it. I gasp at such intimate contact from him, after all this time. "Please let go, Daniel. You're scaring me." "Me? Scare Dana Scully?" "Daniel, I should go. I shouldn't have come here. I just wanted to make sure you were okay. Now I've seen you, and I can go home." "Dana, wait!" I don't stop. I get up from my chair, and leave the hospital. I get to my car, and try to stop my hands from shaking. My phone rings. One guess of who it is. I start the car, and put on my seatbelt. "Scully!" "Great! I was just about to leave you a message. I've got that information I want you to check out. It's a woman you're going to be dealing with. She's affiliated with the American Taoist Healing Center." "And?" "Don't make that look, Scully. I know you." "Mulder..." "No, look, Scully..." I was only half there, again. A woman just jumped in front of my car! I slam on the brakes. "Scully? Are you there? Talk to me, Scully." I don't say anything to him. I'm trying to catch my breath. I told him to leave a message on my machine! Why the hell won't he listen to me? I hang up on him. xxxxxxx I hear nothing but the dial tone. I start to head for my plane. xxxxxxx 9:37pm I'm at the house of the woman Mulder spoke of. Seems he did leave a message on my machine. I guess he was just checking up on me. I was really in no mood to be here, so I hoped it would be over very quickly. I met the woman, Colleen Azar, and was very abrupt with her. She asked me if I was okay. "Why do you ask?" "You seem kind of shaky. Would you like to come in?" "It's nothing, really. I almost hit someone earlier today." "Well, that can't be just *nothing*." "Excuse me?" "In my experience they're often the end results of us not paying attention to something." Who *is* this woman? "Look, I don't mean to be rude, but I just came for the papers, not a lecture." "Sure, just give me a moment." She went to go get them, and when she came back, she let me know what was on her mind. "You don't believe in any of this, do you?" "I don't really have an opinion on it, one way or the other. I'm only here because my partner asked me to come. I've really got to go." "Maybe you should try slowing down." "Thanks, but I don't really have time for that." I turn around to leave. Colleen has already closed the door. As I go down the stairs, I drop the folder. Papers are going everywhere. I bend down to pick them up, and just then, for the third time today, time seems to slow down. I sit there transfixed, looking at one of the crop circle pictures. When I get back to the car, I receive a call from Maggie, summoning me back to the hospital. It seems there was some kind of difference of opinion with Daniel and his doctor. They leave after we discuss this. Once again, Maggie glares at me before she goes. Daniel tells me that she's been through a lot. "How did she find out about us?" "It doesn't matter how she found out. Let's just say that I screwed up, big-time." I sit down to hear his explanation. "It's been difficult, Dana. Very difficult for me." "How so? Where have you been all this time?" "Right here. In Washington." I couldn't believe what I was hearing! Please don't tell me he just said that... "Daniel...you didn't come here..." "Yes, Dana. I came here for you." "How could you? Now I understand why Maggie keeps giving me the evil eye." "I didn't want our reunion to be like this." "Our reunion? Daniel, I haven't seen you in ten years! Oh, God." I can't help myself. I start to cry. "This is all so confusing. I wouldn't have even known you were here if your file hadn't got mixed up with one I was looking for." "I know this is all a lot to take in. You--you have a life now..." "I don't have a life right now. I don't know what I have." "What do you want, Dana?" "I want everything I should want at this time of my life. Maybe I want the life I didn't choose." I continue to cry softly. Daniel reaches out his hand to me. I put my head on his chest, just listening to his heart beating, very weakly. I don't know how long I stayed that way, but after a while, his heart monitor started to beep wildly. I start to perform CPR on him, and yell for a crash cart. It took three tries on the defibrillator, but we finally got his pulse back. I sit down, trying to catch my breath. God, we almost lost him! I go home and fall into bed, exhausted. The next day, I go back to Colleen Azar's. I need some answers. I meet a woman named Carol when I get there, who quickly ushers me in. I see her kiss Colleen goodbye, and leave. "I didn't mean to interrupt. I'm sorry." "That's okay. You still seem troubled. Would you like some tea?" "No. I just came back today to ask you some questions. I'm sorry for my behavior last night. I'm Dana Scully, by the way; I didn't introduce myself." "I hate to admit this, but your partner already told me to expect you." "Mulder?" "Yes. He's a very persistent man." "That he is. I think I will have that tea, if you don't mind." "Of course not." Once the tea was made, we sat down in the living room. There was a small fountain gurgling on her coffee table. Everything seemed so tranquil there. Colleen explained things to me, such as auras, healing, energies, and consciousness. I listened intently to everything she told me. I was fascinated; I really thought that I could help Daniel with this somehow. Then Colleen asked me a question that took me by surprise. "Have you ever had moments when everything gets incredibly clear? When time seems to expand?" Somehow, she had read my mind. I told her about the three incidents yesterday. She told me that maybe I was more 'open' to things than I thought. If only Mulder could hear her now... Afterwards, I go to the hospital. I brought flowers for Daniel, thinking it would cheer him up. Maggie angrily yells at me that her father is now in a coma. "How can this be? He was perfectly fine when I left him last night." "Little good it did him. I don't know how you do it!" "Do what?" "Manage to live your life like you were never in my father's life! Do you know the hell we all went through?" "Maggie, that's the reason why I left. I knew that this wasn't good for you. Or Barbara." "Don't you *dare* speak my mother's name! You've got a lot of nerve coming back now, after all these years." "Maggie, I didn't even know--" I couldn't finish, before she stormed out the room. I didn't want to see Daniel now, so I left the flowers at the nurses' station, and leave the hospital for some fresh air. I started walking, not really knowing where, until I end up in Chinatown. I get that slow moving feeling again. I see the woman I almost hit yesterday, and I run after her. A bicyclist almost runs me over! The slow time has now stopped. I continue to go after her, but she's gone. I wind up at the doors to a beautiful garden. I go inside to a small temple. A golden Buddha statue is in the middle of the room, with small candles surrounding it. I kneel down in front of the statue, and close my eyes. I take a deep breath, and suddenly, images come to me. My family; meeting Mulder for the first time; Deep Throat; Cancer Man; Mulder holding me in that Allentown hospital hallway; Emily; myself, right before I was taken by Duane Barry; and finally, Daniel, floating in a white light. His eyes open, and mine do too, very quickly. I'm still in the temple, and I stand up, look at the Buddha, and leave. Later on, I'm at the hospital, with Colleen Azar, who has brought a healer to administer to Daniel. He started mentioning chakras, and how Daniel's energy seems to be blocked. When Dr. Kopeikan finds us, he is not pleased. Maggie comes in, and the healer says that something is holding him here. Keeping him here on the physical plane. Whatever it is, he needs to release it before he can let go. Maggie didn't seem to mind, and told the doctor the healer could stay. I left to go home shortly thereafter. The next day, I wake up to the phone ringing. It's Maggie, telling me to come back to the hospital. When I get there, I pull Maggie aside, and tell her we need to talk. After our conversation, I find Daniel sitting up in bed. He does not look happy. "Imagine my surprise when I wake up, and my daughter tells me some guy was here, talking about my chakras. I would've expected better from you, Dana. You know that type of thing doesn't work." "I don't care what you believe, Daniel. It just may have saved you." "That's exactly what Maggie told me. It doesn't matter. I'm going to get well. We need to talk about us, Dana. About where we go from here." "There is no *us*, Daniel. I've talked to Maggie. I've explained everything. You have to take responsibility for what's happened. You've been running from the truth for ten years." "Dana, I only did this for you. You were my life." "Now you can live your life for Maggie. She needs you." "You sound just like her." "I can't be that Dana Scully you want me to be. I'm a totally different person now. I'm just now realizing that. Goodbye, Daniel." I turn around, and find Maggie standing in the doorway. We look at each other, and then I leave. Outside the hospital, I watch the people going by me. I'm in that slow-motion mode again. I see that same woman again from two days ago. Time goes back to normal, and I run after her. I catch up to her, and grab her shoulder. It's no longer her; it's Mulder! "Mulder?" "Hey, Scully, I was just looking for you." "Why aren't you in England?" "It was all a farce. There were no crop circles." "None at all?" "Not a one." xxxxxxx I was so happy to see her, but Scully looked totally confused. She sighed and said, "Maybe sometimes nothing happens for a reason, Mulder." Now I was the one who was confused. "Excuse me?" "It's nothing. I'll make you some tea." She puts her arm around my waist, and we walk towards the parking lot. Later at my apartment, we sit on the couch, after drinking our tea. She's kicked her shoes off, and propped her feet on the table. She's wearing a green shirt and a black skirt and blazer. I hadn't seen her in two days. I didn't know how much I missed her until I saw her again. I told her I could hardly believe everything that she told me. "What don't you believe?" "I go away for two days, and your life goes into a completely different direction. You speak to God in a Buddhist temple..." "I didn't say I spoke to God. I had a vision." She smiled at me and sighed. "What is it?" "I once thought I would spend my entire life with him. The things I would've missed if I made that decision." "We might never have met." xxxxxxx I looked at him in shock. "Mulder..." "It's okay, Scully. I've been awful to you. I'm sorry." I put my finger to his lips to stop him before he went any further. "It's okay, Mulder. I probably deserved it. I don't blame you." He kissed my finger, and I closed my eyes. I leaned back and put my head down. "You've been through so much in only two days..." xxxxxxx I looked at her when she didn't reply. "Scully? Scully, can you hear me?" She had fallen asleep. She really did have a long two days. I pulled a blanket over her, and pushed a strand of hair away from her face. I watched her for a few seconds, then got up and went to my bedroom. I sat down on the bed, and went through everything Scully told me. I'm shocked that she told me so much about her life before we met. I guess I shouldn't be surprised at her relationship with Daniel Waterston, after knowing about Jack Willis. Always she tried to get that father figure with her previous relationships. I thought I heard movement in the other room, so I went back out to check on her. Scully was mumbling something in her sleep. xxxxxxx I was so happy to see him. The last two days were like a daze. He took me in his arms and kissed me. We went back to his place. He told me how much he missed me. Then he started to take off my clothes. "You're so beautiful, Scully," he said. When he touched me, it was like an electric current going through my body. It was so powerful, and I couldn't get enough. "Touch me, Mulder," I said. "Touch me, and don't stop." And then I woke up. "Mmm, Mulder..." "Scully! Back with the land of the living?" "Yes. I'm sorry I fell asleep." "It's alright. I'm just sitting here wondering why you had such a wonderful smile on your face, mumbling in your sleep." "I do *not* mumble!" "You were, Scully." "What did I say?" "'Touch me, Mulder. Touch me, and don't stop.'" xxxxxxx She looked at me and blushed. "It's okay, Scully. I dream about you, too." "I'm embarrassed that you caught me. We were here, in your apartment..." I held her hand. "You can tell me, Scully. I'm sure it was a great dream." "Yes. Yes, it was." "I missed you, Mulder. I never knew how much, until you were gone..." She put her hand on my cheek. "I'm sorry about the way I acted. I love you, Mulder." xxxxxxx I put my arms around him, and held him tight. I shivered when he kissed my neck. "I'm right here, Scully. Right here beside you." "I know. Just hold me." We sat there on the couch for a few minutes, then Mulder picked me up and carried me to the bedroom. "Mulder!" "What is it?" "This is like a really bad romance novel." "I don't care. I only care about you." "I don't deserve you." "Why do you say that?" "It's true." "Don't ever say that again, Scully. I'll always need you." He started to show me how much. His touch nearly set my skin on fire. "I just want to touch you. Just like I did in your dream." "You're doing a fantastic job, Mulder. Don't stop." "I don't plan to." We slowly undressed each other. "I dreamed of this moment so many times," I said, as I lay naked before him. "I love you, Scully." "I know." We made love the rest of the day. Early the next morning, I quietly got dressed in the bathroom. When I came out, Mulder had moved around on the bed. One of his bare legs was sticking out underneath the comforter, and an arm was over his head. Poor baby. Guess I wore him out! I heard him softly say my name. "Scully..." I leaned down over him, and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "Go back to sleep, sweetie," I said. "Looks like you'll need it." Somebody was definitely going to be late to the office today. *To Be Continued...* "Shadow Boxing" is by Teena Marie, from her album ROBBERY. ============================== Time passes in moments...moments which, rushing past define the path of a life just as surely as they lead towards its end. How rarely do we stop to examine that path, to see the reasons why all things happen, to consider whether the path we take in life is our own making or simply one into which we drift with eyes closed. But what if we could stop, pause to take stock of each precious moment before it passes? Might we then see the endless forks in the road that have shaped a life? And, seeing those choices, choose another path? --Scully's voiceover in 'all things' Speak to me, baby In the middle of the night Speak to me Hold your mouth to mine 'Cause the sky is breaking It's deeper than love I know the way you feel Like the rains outside Speak to me... --"The Sky Is Broken" by Moby ============================== COME BACK TO ME I: FRIENDS & LOVERS By mulder42 PART EIGHT: DàJ_ VU ALL OVER AGAIN XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th X-FILES OFFICE 10:22am We've just got back from meeting with an auditor, who thoroughly berated us for our expenses over the years. During which, Mulder got very upset, and almost hit the poor guy. I found it all quite amusing. We've been so happy these last two weeks. Mulder told me a couple of days ago that he had finally made an appointment to see my doctor. It's just that we've both been so busy. He said he'd better do it now--no time like the present. He'll see her on October 3rd, a week from today. I could hardly contain my excitement as we made our way back down to the office. xxxxxxx "Scully?" "Yes?" "Why are you smiling?" "I'm just happy, that's all." "About?" "About everything; you almost punching out that auditor. My life. Scratch that. *Our* life, and the possibilities that may come in the future..." I smiled at her. I had been thinking about that as well. I told Scully two days ago that I made an appointment to see her doctor. We spent the entire day at her place, in bed, reading the newspaper and watching old movies on AMC. It was a wonderful day. The type of day any normal couple would have on a Sunday. "Let's say we check out of here, and catch an early lunch." "Mulder! After that meeting we just had? What would the auditor say?" "Forget about him, Scully! I'm buying--" The phone rang before I could finish. Scully and I were both shocked when we heard who it was. xxxxxxx We got a call from Billy Miles, of all people. He said there was some trouble with his father. Strange things were happening again, and he needed our help. "Well, Mulder, it looks like we'll be going back to where we started. Did you ever think we'd end up back there again?" "Never. So, do you think they'd let us share a room?" "Not a chance. This guy wants us on a budget, but not *that* much of a budget." "Darn! But we'd have so much fun sleeping together..." I looked at him, and we both burst out laughing. "C'mon, Scully--let's see how much money we can blow this time." "Might be a record." "I hope you're right." We both continued to chuckle. Mulder put his hand on my back, and we both walked out of the office. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27th BELLEFLEUR, OR 9:03am I felt a strange sensation in the pit of my stomach, ever since we got off the plane. I tried not to worry about that, as Mulder drove us to the sheriff's station. We met with Billy Miles, now a deputy with the department. He told us about a military aircraft that supposedly crashed near here. No evidence of it, or the pilot, has been found. He also told us that another of the deputies here, a Ray Hoese, had gone missing. Mulder asked him, "He was one of the abductees, wasn't he?" "Yes. You remembered." "It may have been seven years, but this was quite a memorable case. Wasn't it, Scully?" "Yes. Yes, it was." We drove to the area. It just happened to be where Mulder painted that 'X' on the road seven years ago. Everything comes back full circle, I guess. All we found were shell casings from Deputy Hoese's gun. We walked around a few more minutes, and then Billy's father drove up, his car battered. He got out and called his son over. "Dad? You remember Agents Mulder and Scully? They're here to help." "Agents, I'm afraid you've come a long way for nothing." xxxxxxx I didn't like the sound of that. "Sir? That must've been some fender bender. You okay?" "Yes, Agent Mulder, just a little accident. What you got there, Bill?" "Evidence." "Of what?" "Maybe another abduction." "Don't give me that! Nothing's going on here!" While they argued about that, I pulled Scully aside. "We have to see Deputy Hoese's wife." "Why?" "Because, if the abductions are starting up again, she might know something." We excused ourselves to start the next part of the investigation. "But, Mulder, what could Hoese's wife possibly tell us? She's probably worried sick." "I know, but I have a feeling..." xxxxxxx A feeling! What would I do without Mulder and his 'feelings'? We got Deputy Hoese's address from Detective Miles before we left. I thought about seven years ago. Our first case together, and look how far we've come... "Scully?" "Yes?" "Penny for your thoughts?" I laughed. "That's probably all I could afford right now, Mulder. I was just thinking about when we were here before. We were so young!" "Yeah. Look where we are now. Just like dÄjô vu. Except you're not spying on me this time." "Mulder, I'm sorry about that. Section Chief Blevins had me file reports about--" "I know, Scully. I'm not blaming you about that. Though I did wonder about you when you came to my room half-naked!" "I still can't believe I did that!" "I didn't mind at all." "Mulder..." xxxxxxx We went down memory lane, until we arrived at the Hoese residence. When we got out of the car, Scully grimaced. "What is it?" "Just a little upset stomach, I think. I'm alright." She put on a bright smile, but I could tell she was uncomfortable. I knocked on the door, and Mrs. Hoese answered. "Yes?" "Theresa? Theresa Nemman?" "Hoese now. You two look familiar. Oh, my God! You're the FBI agents, right?" "Yes, Mulder and Scully. You're married to Ray Hoese?" "Yes. Do you have any news about my husband?" "No, but that's why we're here." "Come in." Scully and I walked in, hearing a baby cry. "Please, have a seat. I have to get the baby. She's so fussy this morning!" We sat down, and when Theresa came back with the baby, Scully gently smiled at the little girl. My heart nearly broke at that moment. I hoped I could help her with this. Guess we'll find out next week. xxxxxxx Theresa came back to the living room, carrying her baby girl. I smiled at her, and she smiled back. Theresa told us that her husband had also been abducted as well all those years ago. "He was taken many times and tested. I have extensive medical records on him and photos of his scars. I'll get you the files." When she got up, she handed the baby to me. "Oh no, Mrs. Hoese, I can't--" "It's no problem, Agent Scully. She likes meeting new people, don't you sweetie?" I held her, and she immediately started to cry. "Don't cry sweetheart. Your mother will be right back." I saw a rubber duck on the table, so I picked it up and squeezed it. The baby laughed and reached for it, so I gave it to her. "You like that? I thought you would. Probably your favorite toy, right?" I rubbed her back. She seemed to like that as well. I picked her up, and placed her head on my shoulder, humming to her. She stayed quiet until her mother got back with the files. I felt a little uneasy and excited at the same time. xxxxxxx 8:07pm I'm in my motel room, looking at Ray Hoese's medical records. Looking at his scars, I don't see how he could've possibly survived his abduction. While I worried about that, I thought about Scully. She looked so happy holding Theresa's baby girl. I couldn't wait until tomorrow to see her. I went to her door and knocked. "Scully, it's me." She came to the door, looking very pale. "What's wrong, Scully? You look sick." "I don't know what's wrong. Come on in. Can you stay with me for a few minutes?" "Of course I'll stay! Do you need a doctor?" "No. I'll be fine." "You don't look fine." "I know, Mulder. I was getting ready to go to bed, and I started to feel lightheaded and cold." I pulled her towards me. She was right. She was shivering! "Get into bed, Scully. You *are* cold. I'll warm you up." "Okay." I helped her under the covers, and tucked her in. Then I lay down beside her and brought her close to my body. "Does this feel better?" "Yes. Thank you." "Maybe you're coming down with something. I want you to go home." "Oh Mulder, I'm going to be fine." "I know, but you can't be sick. Not now." "And why not?" "Because, a mother-to-be can't be sick." "That's really sweet of you to say, Mulder, but we don't even know yet if you're..." "Shhh, Scully. No thinking negative. I know this will work. When I saw you today with Theresa's baby girl, I knew." "Knew what?" "That we'll be terrific parents." "Oh, Mulderr..." I kissed her on the back of her neck, and she inched closer to me. I whispered to her, "I love you, Dana." "I love you, too, Mulder, but let me remind you that this goes against the Bureau's policy on male and female agents consorting in the same motel room on assignment." Try any of that Tailhook crap on me, Scully, and I'll kick your ass. I smiled. "If only that auditor could see us now! How do you feel, Scully?" "You make a wonderful pillow. Could you stay a little while longer?" "Of course! I'm not going anywhere. Close your eyes, and go to sleep." xxxxxxx THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28th 11:08am We're back at the Hoese's. Theresa is now missing, but the baby is okay. We found evidence of the biological toxin that we've seen many times before. While Mulder explained this to Billy Miles, I excused myself. I started to feel lightheaded again, and I didn't want Mulder to worry about me. After he was finished, I told him that I would go home. "Okay, but I'm going with you." "You don't have to do that, Mulder." "I know I don't, but I want to keep an eye on you, especially now." "Why?" "Because, Scully...just because." WASHINGTON, DC X-FILES OFFICE 3:27pm He's been so protective, but he really didn't have to come back with me. We made a quick trip to the office, and were about to leave, when Skinner interrupted us. He said we had visitors in his office. It turned out to be the gunmen. "Agents! You've been to Oregon?" said Byers. "Yes. How did you know, Byers?" Langly piped in, "We've got lots of data about a UFO." "But it was supposed to be a military aircraft." "That's what they want you to believe," said Frohike. Mulder decided to jump into the conversation now. "What've you got, fellas?" After they explained everything, I got restless, and walked out of the room. I paced the hall. Mulder came out a few minutes later. "Mulder, if any of this is true..." "If it is, or if it isn't, I want you to forget about it, Scully." "Why?" "I'm not letting you go back out there. Don't you get it? They're taking abductees! You're an abductee. I'm not going to risk..." When he looked at me, I almost lost it. His voice started to break as he continued. "...losing you." I didn't care what happened, or who was looking at us, so I walked into his arms and hugged him. Mulder held me so tight, I thought I would lose my breath. "I won't let you go alone." I started to cry, broke the embrace, and slowly walked away from him. Mulder caught up with me, and grabbed my hand. He whispered, "Let's get out of here." xxxxxxx I led Scully to a nearby stairway, and wiped her tears away. "I want you to go home, Scully, right now. I'll call you when I know more about this." She looked at me so intensely, then she took the cross from around her neck, and placed it in the palm of my hand. "Scully, I can't take this." "Yes, you can. I want you to wear it. You wore it before; you can wear it again." "But, Scully..." "No buts, Mulder. Promise me you'll come back?" "I will. I love you, Dana. That will never change." "Never?" "Not while I'm alive." "That's good to hear, 'cause I'm holding you to that." I started to walk away from her, but before I could leave, Scully pulled me towards her body, and looked deep into my eyes. She didn't have to say anything. My mouth came down hard on hers, kissing her fiercely. When we broke apart from each other, she went down the stairs, and I went back to Skinner's office. xxxxxxx SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30th 8:30am Mulder's gone. Skinner just told me a few minutes ago. He came to my apartment to give me the bad news. I told him I didn't want to hear about it over a phone line. The funny thing is, I knew it was going to happen. I didn't know it at first, but after I looked at the gunmen's data, I knew that 'they' wanted Mulder due to the anomalous brain activity he suffered from a few months ago. They didn't want me, and Mulder probably figured that out for himself. That's why he didn't want me to go back to Oregon. Skinner told me that one minute he was beside him, setting up equipment to get a trace on the UFO, and the next minute, he was gone. He said he saw a bright light, and then a spacecraft rose up in the sky, and floated away. Taking Mulder away. Away from me. *To Be Continued...in Come Back To Me II* ============================== What would you think if I told you I've always wanted to hold you? I don't know what we're afraid of Nothing would change if we made love So I'll be your friend And I'll be your lover 'Cause I know in our hearts we agree We don't have to be one or the other Oh, no, we could be both to each other Yes it's a chance that we're taking And somebody's heart may be breaking Oooh, but we can't stop what's inside us Our love for each other will guide us So I'll be your friend And I'll be your lover 'Cause I know in our hearts we agree We don't have to be one or the other I've been through you You've been through me Sometimes a friend is the hardest to see And we always know when it's laid on the line Nobody else is as easy to find So I'll be your friend (I'll be) And I'll be your lover 'Cause I'll be your friend (I'll be) And I'll be your lover 'Cause I know in our hearts we agree We don't have to be one or the other Oh, no, we could be both to each other... --"Friends & Lovers" by Carl Anderson & Gloria Loring ==============================