From: "Debbie Cullen" <djc45@hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 26 Feb 2003 15:00:28 -0500
Subject: New Story Submissions
Source: direct

TITLE: Escape The Insanity
AUTHOR: Debbie Cullen
	  djc45@hotmail.com
RATING:
CLASSIFICATION: MSR
SUMMARY: Doggett and Reyes come up with a plan to get Mulder out of the 
military prison. (Not the same way as in "The Truth", I promise!)
FEEDBACK; Please! How else is a girl supposed to know whether or not she's 
doing a good job?
DISCLAIMER: Anything X-Files I may have used does not belong to me. They 
belong to Chris Carter and 1013 Productions as well, of course, as David and 
Gillian, who really made Mulder and Scully who they are. No infringement is 
intended. It is only intended to entertain all of us X-Philes out there.
NOTES: I didn't want to do it, but I finally had to indicate who's POV was 
relevant for each part. Even I was getting confused!

**********

ESCPAE THE INSANITY

(SCULLY POV)
	As soon as I heard those four words -- death by lethal
injection -- come out of Doggett's mouth, my whole body started to
shake.
	From the inside out, it felt like I was crumbling into tiny
little pieces.  The worst of it was that I really didn't care.
	All I knew was that they were going to kill the most loving,
caring, compassionate man I had ever known. It wasn't fair! He wasn't
guilty! I had proven that and they refused to acknowledge the
evidence.
	I now realized that Mulder had been right when he said that
the verdict was a foregone conclusion. How could they call themselves
law men? They bent, twisted and broke the law every time it suited
them.
	I tried to clear my mind and think logically. My heart kept
dragging me back to the fact that I was about to lose everything!! I
had given up our son and now they were taking Mulder away from me too.
There would be nothing left for me. How as I going to go on when they
were taking something from me that was every bit as essential to my
existence as air?
	Part of me hated the fact that I needed him that much, but
deep down inside I knew there was no point in denying it -- especially
to myself. He meant everything to me!
	I don't know how much time went by before Monica came over and
put a gentle hand on my arm.
	I looked at her, huge tears still burning behind my eyes. I'm
sure I must have been quite a site ... tears in my eyes, tear stains
on my cheeks ...  Quite honestly I was just shy of a basket case.
	I don't often let people see me like this. I usually hold it
inside until I am alone in my apartment. I don't think I could have
kept this pain inside even if I wanted to. It was just oo intense!
	In the short time I had known her, I had come to value her
friendship greatly. She didn't think I was crazy for believing in
Mulder or for loving him. I often felt that she would have liked the
chance to know him better.
	She gently pulled me to my feet and led me into the bedroom.
she sat me on the bed, slipped my shoes off, laid me down and put a
blanket over me. It was nice to let someone else be in control for a
chancge.
	She told me to rest, but I knew there wasn't much chance. No
matter how you sliced it, Mulder was going to die and, frankly, I
wanted to too.
	I reached out and pulled the doll Mulder had given me from the
headboard. I hugged it tightly to my chest. It was all I had left of
him now.
	My mind wandered back to the night before Mulder had left. We
laid together in this very bed. We had hugged and cuddled . We even
caressed each other's bodies, but it still fell short of waht we
really wanted -- and needed.
	Being as I had given birth so recently making love really
wasn't advisable.  I'm afraid, however, if I had know how things were
going to turn out I would have risked it. I would give just about
anything to be in his arms now.
	I think I must have drifted off to sleep, because the next
thing I remember is being awakened by my own screams -- screaming
Mulder's name.
	I was sitting up by the time I realized that I was actually in
my own bed.  when my eyes came back into focus, John and Monica were
standing in the doorway, looking concerned.
	"I'm o-o-kay," I say weakly, not really sure it was true.
	"What happened, Dana?" Monica asked.
	"Just a nightmare," I say unable to talk about it right now. I
don't even remember what it was about." I scooped up the doll from
where it lay beside me. I held on to that doll for dear life. It felt
like my only connection to Mulder.
	As I heard, the bedroom door close, I released the air I had
been holding in my lungs.
	I hadn't told them about the nightmare because I just couldn't
talk about it -- not yet. It had really shaken me -- even more than I
really wanted to admit.
	It had actually started out rather pleasantly. Mulder and I
were in bed together. We were kissing and caressing each other. I
didn't ever want it to end!
	Then is suddenly changed! Now we were at the military base.
Mulder was strapped down to a gurney. I was sitting in a chair.
	He was given an injection and he began to writhe in pain.
After several minutes, our eyes met and locked. He pleaded with me to
end it.
	It wasn't until then that I realized that I was tied to the
chair. I couldn't help him! He was suffering horribly.
	Suddenly it hit me -- I was being forced to watch his
"execution". That's when I screamed and woke myself up.
	I felt a hot tear slip down my cheek. I reached up and wiped
it away. Then and there I made myself a promise. I couldn't let them
do this to him. I had lost so much in my life, I couldn't lose him too
- I just COULDN'T!

(MULDER POV)
	When I heard the verdict and sentence read, I can't say I was
the least bit surprised. I knew that's what they'd planned from the
beginning. I guess I just played right into their hand by going to
Mount Weather.
	I wasn't worried or upset for myself. I was more worried about
Scully. I didn't know how she would take this. She'd been so angry
when they had simply chosen to ignore the proof that she had garnered
-- the fact that the body at Quantico was NOT Noel Rohr!
	Before they had returned me to my cell, Skinner had promised
to let Scully know what had happened. I made him promise to make shre
she was okay.
	When I first returned to my cell, I felt very uneasy. I didn't
really know why, I just felt nervous and I had a lump in my stomach.
	Finally I laid down on the floor and closed my eyes. My mind
kept wandering to how Scully would take the news. I don't know how
much time went by, but eventually I drifted off to sleep.
	Scully and I were alone. We were kissing and slowly my hand
began to glide along the supple curves of her luscious body.
	I pulled her tightly against my body. Part of me knew it was
only a dream, but it felt SO good. I hoped it would never end! As I
kissed her and softly caressed her body, my eyes dropped shut.
	Suddenly I felt the most searing pain shoot through my body.
When I opened my eyes, I was in a white, sterile-looking room. I was
strapped to some kind of gurney and couldn't move. The pain was worse
than anyting I'd ever felt before.
	I began searching the room with my eyes. I oculd tell that
Scully was nearby and I needed to find her.
	As I looked around I recognized several of the guards from the
prison, as well as Kersh.
	Suddenly I knew where I was and what was happening. this
couldn't be real!  I hadn't even had a chance to say goodby to Scully,
I thought as panic crept into my belly.
	I tried to call out to her, but found my mouth was gagged.
	My eyes frantically searched the room and finally our eyes
met. They locked. I couldn't stand the horrible pain anymore and I
pleaded, with my eyes, for her to put an end to it.
	Then I heard her scream my name and I sat bolt upright. I was
sweating profusely and when I opened my eyes again I was alone in my
cell.
	I could feel Scully's fear deep in my soul. I reached up and
wiped away the tears that slipped down my cheeks.
	Again Scully needed me and again I let her down!

(SCULLY POV)
	I got out of bed and stumbled out to the living room.
	All heads turned my way as I entered the room.
	Monica ... John ... I need your help," I said as I sat down on
the couch.
	"With what?" John asked as he stepped closer to the couch.
	Getting Mulder out of there! I can't let him die!" I said, the
anger resurfacing. I paused for a moment before I continued. I took a
couple of deep breaths to calm my nerves and then I continued.
	"I know it's asking a lot. I know it puts you in danger," I
say, closing my eyes and dropping my head back. I can feel the tears
welling and I fight to hold them in. "... but I don't know who else I
can trust!" I can hold the tears no longer and they flood my cheeks.
	I'm sure they both heard the desperation in my voice. That,
coupled with the fact that, they knew how wrong this situation was,
they both agreed to help.
	"Thank you," I said sincerely. I silently told myself that we
would be together soon and this time I might never let him out of my
sight again.
	We hadn't been told a specific date, but we all understood
that the sooner we had a plan in place, the better.
	Once John had left, Monica said she could stay if I wanted her
to. I told her how much I appreciated the offer, but I really needed
to be alone. She agreed to go if I promised to call if I needed
anything.
	I hugged her firmly before she left and told her how much I
appreciated her and John's help.
	She simply told me that they both knew it was the right thing
to do.
	I locked and bolted the door behind her and headed back to the
bedroom.
	I crawled under the covers, taking Mulder's doll with me. As I
clutched the doll to my chest, I closed my eyes and said, "We will be
together, Mulder.  It wasn't meant to end like this! We have far to
much to do yet!"
	Then I drifted into a restful sleep!
	I didn't hear from John for the next several days. I knew he
was working on a plan so i didn't bother him, but it wasn't easy. I
needed to know what was happening.
	Moniica phoned every day, however, to make sure I was okay. I
wasn't doing all that much. I visited Mulder every day and I waited.
	I have never been so thankful for my FBI credentials and my
medical degree.  I'm sure they are what got me in to see him each day.
	I desperately wanted to tell him that we were workiing on a
plan to get him out of here, but I knew it wasn't safe. In our line of
work , I learned a long time ago that they walls have ears --
sometimes quite literally!
	It was a ninety minute drive each way, for a mere 60 minute
visit. It was worth every second to me. These visits were my lifeline
right now. They kept me wanting to move forward. ` As the days went by
I oculd see his zest for life draining from his body.  It broke my
heart to see him feel like that. All his hopes had been dashed.
	A couple of times he even told me I didn't have to come all
this way every day. I made it very clear that I wasn't about to miss
ONE second that I could spend with him.
	He never asked, but I knew he must have wondered how I
remained so together. My heart was breaking for him.
	When I told him that these visits were what kept me going, he
didn't say a word. He looked at me for a moment before his arms
slipped around me and hepulled me to him. He just held me close and
softly kissed the top of my head. Those were the moments that were so
precious to me ... when we were alone and in our own little world.
	I craved his touch. Every fibre of my being wanted and needed
to feel him -- inside and out. I was always hesitant, afraid they
wouldn't allow us that much intimacy.
	On the other hand, at this point, they were pretty sure of
themselves. The verdict was in and the sentence had been decided.
Maybe they figure this was just another way to torure us, but it did
the opposite to me. It made me that much more determined to get him
out of here.
	One afternoon, Mulder got particularly daring. As we held each
other, his hands slipped around and underneath my blouse. I jumped
when I felt his fingers glide across the bare flesh of my abdomen.
They didn't stop until he undid my bra and pused it out of the way.
	Then he kneaded the flesh of my breasts while gently running
his thumbs back and forth across the nipples. The sensations that were
coursing through my body were electrifying! He could do more to me by
simply touching me than most men had done making love to me. A simply
touch sent chills up and down my spine.
	That afternoon I had one of the most intense orgasms I could
ever remember ... and all he did was touch me!
	For some reason this particular day it was even harder for me
to leave him when the guard said our time was up.
	He tried to hide it, but I could see the tears glistening in
his eyes. He was scared and he was doing everything he could to try
and hide it from me, but he wasn't very successful.

(MULDER POV)
	The next several days were pretty bleak. About the only bright
light for me was seeing Scully every day.
	As much as I needed to see her, I told her she didn't have to
come all that way every day.
	She told me in no uncertain terms that there was nowhere else
she COULD be.  God, how I loved this woman!
	As soon as she arrived each day, I needed to touch her. I
don't know, maybe I was trying to make sure she was real. Maybe I just
wanted to make sure she'd stay.
	One day, I couldn't stand it any more. I put my arms around
her and pulled her to me. More than anything I wanted to feel her bare
skin.
	Without pausing to think about it, I slipped my hands under
her blouse and skimmed my fingertips across her bare stomach. She
choked on the gasp that escaped her throat.
	Then I reached up and undid her bra. The look of shock in her
eyes, was the sexiest thing I had ever seen.
	Logically I knew I shouldn't be doing this, but I just
couldn't stop. I wanted her SO much. I felt like I was going to
explode .
	After all, what did I have to lose? I was in jail with a death
sentence hanging over my head, just waiting to find out the date that
I was to die.
	I was quickly brought back to the situation at hand when I
felt her whole body begin to tremble. As soon as I looked in her eyes,
I knew she was coming. I had seen that look in her eyes before and it
almost turned my knees to jelly.
	I pulled her tightly to my chest and just held her as she
coasted back to earth.
	Just as our breathing began to slow, the guard said that our
time was up. I had never felt such a keen sense of disappoint- ment in
my life.
	We slowly pulled part and Scully leaned up and whispered in my
ear. "Next time, it's your turn!"
	I felt a jolt of electricity course through my body at the
thought.
	She quickly did up her bra and buttoned her blouse. Our eyes
locked for a moment before she turned and went to the door.
	This was always the hardest part of the day for me, when I had
to let her go.
	During the last year, all I had prayed for was that we would
be together again, but certainly not like THIS!

(SCULLY POV)
	When I got home there was a message of my machine from
Skinner. He asked me to call a ssoon as I got home.
	I immediately felt my stomach clench. As I picked up the phone
to call, I just knew it wasn't good news.
	As soon as Skinner heard my voice on the line, I could feel
his discomfort.  That only caused my stomach to clench further.
	I knew he was trying to find an easy way to tell me. After a
few minutes of silence, he finally told me that they had set the date.
	The lump in my stomach grew tenfold in an instant. I took a
slw deep breath before I could ask him when. He said that it was set
for one week from today.
	I felt my heart plummet. That didn't give us much time!
	As soon as I hung up, I called John Doggett. There was no
answer so I left a message telling him I need to talk to him as soon
as possible.
	Next I called Monica. I was so relieved to hear her voice on
the other end.  I told her what Skinner said to me. Try as I might, I
couldn't hold the tears in any longer.
	She said that John was there with her and they'd be right
over.

(MULDER POV)
	I was sitting on the floor, thinking about Scully. Thinking
about how much I loved her and how much I missed her.
	The door opened and Skinner strode in. By the look on his
face, I was immediately worried. I quickly got to my feet and moved
toward him.
	He must have known what I was thinking because he reached out
and put his hand on my shoulder. Then he said, "She's fine, Mulder.
Relax!"
	I never realized before that I was that transparent, but where
Scully is concerned everything is different. I've never felt these
emotions with such intensity before.
	I visibly sighed with relief. I was so afraid something had
happened to her.
	It was obvious how uncomfortable he was, but he just stood
there and looked at me for several minutes. Neither one of us knew
what to say. Deep down inside I think I knew why he was here. I just
couldn't say the words.
	He couldn't look me in the eyes, but he finally told me that
the date had been set -- one week from today.
	He felt badly because he felt like he had let me down. I tried
to reassure him that it wasn't his fault. This verdict had been
decided before the trial even began. There was nothing more he could
have done to change it.

(SCULLY POV)
	I paced the floor waiting for John and Monica to arrive. If
they had taken any longer, I'm sure there would have been a path worn
on my carpet.
	When I finally heard a knock on my door, I threw it open
without even checking who was there.
	I quickly ushered them inside and locked the door behind them.
	As soon as Monica saw the look on my face, she didn't waste
any time on small talk. She got right to the point.
	She told me that they had a plan sketched out, but they needed
my medical expertise.
	They wanted to know if there was a drug that could render a
person comatose -- to the point of the person appearing to be dead.
	This question frightened me, but I told her there were a few
drugs that could have that effect.
	When she asked me how to go about obtaining such a drug, I
told her all I had to do was write a prescription for it.
	At this point, John interrupted. He said he didn't like that
idea. It could, conceivably, be traced back to me. He told me to give
him the name of the drug and he would take care of it.
	Then we all sat down and they told me what their plan was...
	When they had finished telling me their plan, I just sat and
looked at them.
	I guess they thought I was apprehensive about it, because they
both tried to tell me that it was the best way.
	It wasn't that I didn't wanted to do it, I was just a bit
taken aback by what I'd been told. I knew it meant leaving my life in
DC behind me forever.  I could handle that as long as I was with
Mulder. I would do anything for him.
	It hurt to think of leaving my Mom behind, but I told myself
that someday maybe I'd be able to explain it to her. I sure hope so.
	The next day when I went to see Mulder, I desperately wanted
to tell him that we were working on a plan to get him out of here.
	I had never seen him look so hopeless. It was as if as long as
the date hadn't been set, he had a thread of hope to hold onto. Now
that the date had been set, that thread was broken and he'd lost all
hope.
	As desperately as I wanted to tell him about our plan, knew it
wasn't safe.
	A mistake now would ruin everything and I couldn't take that
chance. After all, it was Mulder's life at stake and I wans't willing
to risk it.
	I had never seen him so depressed. He didn't seem to want to
talk ... he just held on to me for dear life. I didn't know what to
say to him to make him feel better. I was really worried.
	Finally, I learned over and kissed him. Our non-verbal
communication had always been better than our verbal after all. He
barely even responded to my kiss.
	That really frightened me. It was really bad when Mulder
wasn't interested in making out.
	Ever since we had finally admitted out feelings to each other,
I had never seen him uninterested.
	Finally, he pulled back and looked in my eyes. His were full
of tears and it broke my heart.
	"What's the use, Scully? Next week ..." he said, his voice
trailing off unable to say the words.
	I cupped his face in my hands and made him look at me.
	"There is one very good reason!" I say firmly.
	He looks at me, not sure what I mean.
	Before he replies, I continue. "It feels wonderful! I love you
Mulder and I want to be with your!" ONce again I reached up and kissed
him. This time he couldn't resist kissing me back.
	Every once in a while I pulled back slightly and looked at his
face. There were still tears in his eyes and an awful sadness in his
face, but I think he now understood what this time meant to me.
	All too soon, the guard appeared and said our time was up. I
gently kissed him once more and then I turned and head to the door.
	Before I got to the door, I heard his voice.
	"Scully?"
	I turned back to look at him. He looked like a lost little
orphan and my heart went out to him.
	"You really don't have to come here anymore. You need to get
on with your life. I really do understand!" he said and dropped his
head towards the floor.
	I quickly moved back in front of him. I reached up and gently
touched his cheek, but he wouldn't look at me.
	I finally decided to say my piece anyway.
	"I cherish every minute we spend together. I won't miss even
one!" I told him as I reached up and softly kissed his forehead. Then
I turned and left.

(MULDER POV)
	As soon as Scully left the room, I fell to my knees. Tears
were threatening to fall.
	What had I ever done to deserve a woman like that?
	Could this all be happening because I didn't deserve her?
	I loved her more than anything else in my life -- including
the X-Files and Samantha. I would never mention either of them again
if I could just have a little more time with her.
	What hurts more than anything is the facgt that she's going to
be hurt AGAIN because of me.
	I really did try and push her away, but I'm just not strong
enough when I see tears in her eyes and pain in her face.
	How can I refuse her when all I really want is to hold her and
love her for the rest of my life." Ironically, the rest of my life
wasn't far off.

(SCULLY POV)
	When I left Mulder, I headed for home. He was absolutely
miserable and, therefore, I was miserable too. Seeing him, like this
was almost more than I oculd bare.
	I decided the only way i was going to feel better was if I
felt like I was doing something ... like I was moving our plan
forward.
	As soon as I got home, I booted up my computer and began
researching which drugs might be used to attain the results we needed.
	After several hours, I had pretty much decided on a particular
drug. It seemed to be the safest. It worked it's own way out of the
body, therefore, no antidote was required. Now I only hoped Doggett
would be able to obtain it.
	I called to tell him which drug I felt would be best and why.
He said he'd leave that part up to me. I knew more about that end of
it. He said he would get in touch with his contact and let me know
when he had it.
	As fate would have it -- without even knowing it -- Mulder
played right into our hands.
	As his last request, he asked to have one last night with me.
they took quite a while to decide whether or not to grant his request,
but they finally agreed.
	I don't know for sure, but I have a feeling Skinner did
whatever he could to get them to agree. He felt terrible that he was
unable to defend Mulder to the point of acquittal.
	It was very difficult for him to accept that the government
(and the military)that he had dedicated his life to had this all
decided before the trial even began.
	When Skinner called to tell me their decision, I was SO
relieved. I really wanted to tell him what we were planning, but I
knew the fewer people who knew, the better.
	This would make the whole situation so much easier.
Originally, we had planned to put the plan in motion one day when I
was visiting Mulder. This way would be so much easier.
	I called John to tell him the news. He was relieved as I had
been. It would definitely make things easier. Then we had to work out
the rest of the details, so we would both know what should happen --
when and how.
	The military would allow us from 8:00 pm to 8:00 am -- a whole
twelve hours.
	John and I agreed that I would administer the drug around
midnight. It shouldn't take more than 1/2 hour to take affect. Once it
was working, I'd call for the guard to call an ambulance. John would
intercept the call and take care of everything else.
	I worried about doing this without telling Mulder, but I know
John was right that it was just too dangerous. It would be too hard
for his reactions and emotions to remain the same if he knew his
execution wasn't going to happen.
	Also, the room where we would be was on the military base with
a guard outside the door. If anything were to be overheard, the whole
plan would be ruined and Mulder would die! That was something I
definitely didn't want to think about.

(MULDER POV)
	I was truly shocked when they first asked me what I wanted as
a last request. I was SO shocked, in fact, that I didn't even really
think about it.
	When they returned several hours later, I had no idea what to
tell them.
	No matter how hard I thought about it, the only thing I really
wanted was Scully. I knew it really wasn't fair to her, but I NEEDED
her SO much!
	Finally, I told them that I wanted one night with Dana Scully.
	They took their time deciding about my request. As much as I
hated these guys, I was so thankful when they agreed.

(SCULLY POV)
	As soon as I opened my eyes that morning, I felt butterflies
fluttering in my stomach.
	I knew what we were doing was against the law, but I was a
desperate woman and this was a desperate situation. Besides, as far as
I knew, executing an innocent man was illegal too.
	As I sat in the kitchen, having a cup of hot tea, my mind
wandered back to before Mulder had left us.
	I had woken up to hear Mulder rummaging around in the kitchen.
I had staggered out of bed to see what was wrong.
	He said he was trying to find something to drink.
	"What do you want?" I asked.
	He looked at me, surprised. "I never thought you'd have to ask
me that question!
	I smiled at him as I went over to the frig. I opened the door,
bent down and reached to the very back.
	As I stood, I handed hiim the jar of iced tea.
	He broke out in a really wide grin and said, "I knew you
wouldn't let me down!"
	I was suddenly dragged out of my reverie by a knock on my
front door.
	"I wasn't expecting anyone and, god help me, I prayed it
wasn't my mother.  Don't get me wrong, I love my mother dearly, but I
just didn't have the energy to explain it all to her right now.
	I would give Doggett a letter and ask him to see that she gets
it. I know she'll be uupset that I didn't confide in her, but I can't
worry about that now. I have to concentrate on what is happening
tonight. I can't risk making a mistake because my mind is elsewhere.
	I went to the door and looked through the peephole. It was
John and Monica.  I quickly opened the door and let them in.
	They both looked very serious. So serious in fact, it almost
scared me.
	John said he needed to talk to me. I tried to follow him when
he headed for my couch, but my knees wobbled terribly. I managed to
get my hand on the back of the couch which helped control the wobble.
I was terrified that he was going to tell me that he'd changed his
mind about helping us.
	I think he realized how frightened I was because as soon as I
sat down on the couch he reached out and squeezed my hand gently.
	I let out a huge sigh of relief when he said that he had to be
sure I understood the remifications of what we were about to do.
	I assured him that I understood only too well, but after what
I'd been through in the last year, I knew what we were doing was
right.
	I had to be with Mulder. I couldn't accept him dying --
especially not for something he DIDN'T do!
	Leaving my Mom wouldn't be easy, but hopefully someday I would
be able to contact her again.
	John seemed much more comfortable once that was over with. I
think he knew I'd never change my mind, but for his own peace of mind,
he had to give me an out.
	They left, both telling me they'd be waiting for the 911 call.
	Once they were gone, I quickly got dressed. There were still a
few things I needed to take care of before I went to the base tonight.
	  As I walked through the mall, I came across a quaint little
lingerie shop.
	I'd never bought myself anything like this before. First of
all, I'd never considered myself the sultry, sexy type. Second of all,
I'd never been in a relationship where my partner had been the least
bit interested in "preliminaries" so to speak.
	Mulder was forever telling me that I was the sexiest woman
he'd ever known.  He certainly wasn't like the other men I'd been
involved with ... but then Mulder wasn't at all like any man I'd ever
met before.
	I stepped into the store and the first thing I saw was a sheer
black and red teddy. I usually shied away from clothes that were red.
They always seemed to clash with my hair.
	After looking at the teddy, for a couple of minutes, I moved
on. No matter how hard I tried, I kept returning to that teddy. I
couldn't shake the image of Mulder when he saw me in it. Finally I
decided I had to buy it.
	As I went to leave the store, I quickly scanned up and down
the mall. the last thing I needed was someone I knew seeing me come
out of a store like this with a package.
	I have to admit that I was somewhat embarrassed, but everytime
the look on Mulder'd face crossed my mind, I knew I'd made the right
choice.
	When I left the store, I went to my car and headed home.
	Once more I got home, I realized I had just enough time to get
ready before heading to the base. I so wanted everything to be
perfect. I grabbed the bag from the lingerie shop and headed to my
bedroom.
	After a nice hot shower, I returned to my bedroom. I took the
teddy out of the bag and held it up to my body. It was definitely
skimpy and very sheer.  For a moment I thought I must have been crazy
to ever buy it, but then Mulder's face flashed before me. Maybe I
wasn't so crazy after all, I thought, feeling a very pleasant warmth
spread through my body.
	I quickly slipped the teddy on. I couldn't help feeling a bit
wicked, but it was a very good wicked.
	Suddenly I had an idea. If I was going to do this 'wicked'
thing. I might as well do it right.
	I went to my dresser and pulled out my garter belt and a pair
of stockings.  I remembered the last time I had worn stockings instead
of pantyhose.
	I had gotten up late and in my hurry to get dressed, I had put
my fingernail through my last pair of panyhose.
	Not having time to change my whole outfit, I had put the
stockings on and went to work.
	That day Skinner sent us out on a case, out of town. I always
have a bag packed in my car, so I didn't think anything of it.
	It was after 11:00pm before we got to a motel. They only had
one room left and I was just too tired to go searching for alternate
accommodation, so we took the one room.
	This was near the beginning of our intimate relationship and
we both thought we could handle it. Boy were we ever wrong!
	I had gone to the washroom to change. Mulder came and knocked
on the door.  He thought I had told him to come in. He opened the door
and ended up getting more than he bargained for.
	I was standing there in my bra, panties, garter belt and
stockings. We both froze.
	I saw him swallow deeply and the next thing I knew we were
kissing passionately.
	I don't think I'll ever forget the look on his face. He told
me later that that was just about the sexiest thing he'd ever seen.
	I think this would be as good a time as any for a repeat
performance.
	I slipped the garter belt on and slowly slipped each stocking
on. I got a shiver up my spine just thinking about Mulder slipping
them off.
	When that was done, I went to my closet and pulled out
Mulder's favorite of my suits -- a navy blue Donna Karan.
	I got chills again thinking about the night Mulder told me
that in actual fact his favorite suit of mine was actually my brithday
suit! He had such an evil smirk on his face, but I absolutely loved
it!
	On the outside I intended to look very businesslike, but once
that door was locked behind us, I intended to be VERY unbusiness-
like.
	I quickly put on the suit and slipped my feet into my shoes. I
went over to the bed and got my overnight bag and took it out to the
living room.
	A quick glance at the clock on my desk and I realized it was
time for me to leave.
	I grabbed my coat and my keys I turned back to look around one
last time.
	By the time I saw this apartment again, nothing would be the
same.

(MULDER POV)
	I lay on the floor in my cell. Every part of my body hurt.
They had really given me a going over, but I had no idea why. I guess
they figured after tomorrow it wouldn't make any difference.
	As I opened my eyes and I saw how dark it was, I knew it must
be getting close to 8:00 pm. I don't think I've ever looked more
forward to anything in my life.
	I had so hoped they might let me wear something other than
this orange prison garb, but no deal.
	Scully always said how good I looked in jeans. I would have
loved to have my button-fly black jeans right now. I felt my groin
tingle as I thought about Scully removing them!
	When the guard finally came to get me, my muscles had all
tightened up on me. I had trouble getting up off the floor, but there
was NO way I was going to miss this night.

(SCULLY POV)
	My stomach was full of butterflies as I approached the base. I
was SO anxious to see him. I needed to feel his body next to mine ...
to tell him and show him how much I loved him.
	I turned into the parking lot and pulled into the first spot I
found. I got out and locked the car. I opened the trunk to get my coat
and bag. Then I turned and hurried towards the door. I glanced at my
watch as I walked. It was 7:45 pm.
	I pulled the door open and stepped inside. I was greeted by a
very pleasant young man. To me he looked much too young to be in the
military.
	I explained to him who I was and why I was there. He smiled
and said they'd been expecting me. He came around the counter and led
me through a door off to the right.
	He walked about 3/4 of the way down the hall and stopped. He
pulled a keychain out of his pocket that held numerous keys. It was
his third or fourth try before he got the right key. He opened the
door and turned to me, stepping aside for me to enter.
	The butterflies in my stomach had reached gargantuan
proportions and I even felt weak in the knees.
	As I stepped into the room behind him, he apologized for
having to lock the door when he left.
	My eyes quickly scanned the room -- no Mulder. I turned and
looked at the guard, quizzically.
	"Oh, Mr. Mulder will be here shortly," he told me.
	I know he continued to speak, but I really didn't hear what he
said. I knew that in a few minutes I would be with Mulder and that's
all I cared.
	I looked around the room and while it wasn't the Ritz, it was
a decent room. It certainly was better than some of the rooms Mulder
and I had stayed in over the years.
	I seriously considered stripping down to my teddy, laying down
on the bed and waiting for him to arrive. I could see his eyes almost
pop out of his head when he saw me. The thought brought a smile to my
face, but in the end I decided against it. First of all, I didn't
particularly want to put on a show for whatever military personnel
escorted him here. Mulder was the only one I wanted to see that sight.
Secondly, I smiled wickedly as the thought crossed my mind. Mulder
might just enjoy opening that package himself.
	It was almost fifteen minutes later, when I heard a key go in
the lock.
	The butterfiles in my stomach took flight once again and I
couldn't ever remember feeling so nervous before.
	The door opened and Mulder was pushed inside roughly. He
stumbled and almost fell. I was off the chair and to him in an
instant. I heard the door slam shut and the lock click into place as I
reached out to him so he wouldn't fall. Luckily he managed to avoid
falling, but I gasped in horro when I looked at his face.
	There were cuts and scrapes all over his face and a bright
purple bruise on his left cheekbones.
	I reached up and gently touched his cheek. He winced
involuntarily.
	"What happened?" I asked concerned. I felt my anger starting
to bubble and I fought to keep it down.
	"It's nothing," he said, taking my hand and gently kissing my
palm.
	"It IS something!" I said, tears gathering in my eyes.
"Something that shouldn't have happened!"
	"Scully ... don't worry about it ... after tomorrow ..." his
voice trailed off.
	It broke my heart when I looked in his eyes. They were filled
with pain, shadowed by a total lack of hope. More than anything else
in the world, I wanted to take him in my arms and tell him what we
were going to do, but I knew I couldn't. The look of total
hopelessness, in his eyes, tore at my heart.
	"Who did this to you?" I ask forcefully.
	He dropped his head to avoid my eyes.
	I looked at him, trying to get the words out, when it suddenly
hit me! I took him by the shoulders and looked straight in his eyes.
	"The guards did this to you, didn't they?" I asked
insistently. When he tried to turn away, I KNEW I was right!
	My heart ached for him. Not knowing what else to do, I pulled
him into my arms and held him.

(MULDER POV)
	As soon as the guard put the key in the door, I knew Scully
was in there. I could sense her close by.
	I was unprepared for the roughness that I was pushed into the
room with. I almost fell. Once again, Scully saved me. I could feel
the pain in my ribs at the thought of falling.
	Those two guys had really given me a beating. My whole body
ached.
	When I looked in her eyes and knew she knew what had happened,
my heart skipped a beat. I was tempted to ask if she had her weapon,
because I could see how angry she was. I didn't want her to do
something that she'd regret.  I certainly wasn't worth it.
	I fell into her arms, thinking that I'd finally gotten myself
into trouble that even Scully couldn't fix.

(SCULLY POV)
	When he'd pretty much settled, I pulled back slightly.
	"They aren't going to get away with this ... It's wrong! I say
as I try to stand.
	He tightens his hold on me, pulling me back to him. Please
don't ... I just need YOU! PLEASE!!
	When I look in his eyes and see the pleading there, I can't
refuse him. To be perfectly honest, I'd rather stay right where I am
anyway. I guess it's easier for me. I know there will be a tomorrow
for us -- something he doesn't have to hold on to.
	"Okay, whatever you want," I tell him as I lean over and kiss
him softly.
	"There's only one thing I want," he said as he deepened our
kiss.
	While still kissing me, he reaches between us and slips my
jacket off and drops it to the floor. Then he starts unbuttoning my
blouse and it soon falls to the floor too.
	The blood is coursing through my veins so quickly, I can
barely think straight.
	I desperately want to see the look on his face, so when I feel
my skirt drop to the floor, I step away from him.
	The look of disappointment on his face, almost makes me
re-think my actions.
	This is the moment I had hoped for. After all, this is why I
bought the teddy in the first place.
	When our eyes met, I had never seen a look quite like it
before. His mouth was hanging open. The look on his face was part
surprise and part pure lust.
	There has never been anyone else I'd ever wanted to do
something like this for. Only Mulder. He just made me FEEL sexy!
	By the time I climbed up on the bed beside him, his interest
was quite obvious. It always made me feel so wonderful to know that I
have that affect on him.
	He could have had any woman he wanted, but by the grace of
god, he wanted me. I could never quite get over the fact that he
really felt that way. I never doubted that he loved me, I was just
amazed that he did and I thanked god every day that he did.
	There was such love and need in his eyes that my heart melted.
All I wanted to do was take him in my arms and hold him and protect
him -- forever!

(MULDER POV)
	As her skirt fell to the floor, she stepped back from me.
	My heart fell. All my insecurities came hurtling to the
surface.
	Then my eyes drifted down from hers and my mouth dropped open.
It was all I could do not to drool.
	She was standing in front of me in a black and red teddy that
fit her luscious body perfectly. Then she had on a garter belt and
navy silk stockings, topped off with 3" navy heels. I thought I had
died and gone to heaven.
	All those insecurities that had rushed to the surface a few
moments ago disappeared in a flash. I knew Scully didn't normally
dress like this and by the look on her face I knew this was just for
ME!
	I had often wondered what I had done to deserve this woman but
never more than at this moment.

(SCULLY POV)
	While I knew I couldn't protect him forever, I knew I would do
anything and everything I could to keep him safe for as long as I
possibly could.
	The intensity of the feelings I had for this man almost
frightened me. I had never known feelings like this before, but I
think that was, at least part of the reason why I knew we were so
right for each other.
	I leaned over and kissed him deeply and passionately. I wanted
him SO much.  I wanted that connection ... that feeling of not being
sure where one of us ended and the other began.
	I knew it would be a week or so before we would be together
again. I needed that connection to carry me through what could be the
most difficult few days of my life.
	I couldn't even imagine how he must have been feeling -
believing we would never be together again! My heart ached so for him.
	His arms went around me and pulled me tightly to him.

(MULDER'S POV)
	As I pulled Scully to me, I felt that familiar tingle in my
groin, but I felt so very much more.
	I have never been very good at expressing my feelings, but I
had to let her know how much she really does mean to me. All I've ever
done is screw up her life and still she loves me.
	It feels like forever since I held her like this. It feels SO
good!
	When she pulls my mouth to hers and kisses me, It's obvious
that she wants more than just to cuddle. To be honest, so do I.
	I began to trail kisses along her jaw down her neck and along
her collar bone. The strap of the teddy is in my way, so I remove it -
with my teeth!  Scully tries to stifle her moan, but isn't very
successful.
	I slip the other strap from her shoulder and lean back as I
pull the garment down.
	Her breasts bob free and it takes my breath away. Somehow I
never get used to how truly beautiful she really is. I gently glide my
fingers over her soft, tender flesh.
	As I am trying to decide whether I want to feel them or taste
them, Scully arches her back, which effectively pushes them ever
closer to me.
	I can't resist any longer. I drop my mouth to her breast.
First I gently lick her nipple and then I take as much as I can into
my mouth.
	Scully is literally squirming underneath me. Suddenly it dawns
on me that I might be hurting her!
	I guess not, because when I start to pull away, her hadn goes
to the back of my head and pushes me back to her breast.
	She has barely touched me and already I am rock hard -- almost
to the poiint of being painful.
	I guess I shouldn't be surprised. There have been times when
all she had to do was LOOK at me and I was gone.
	When I move slightly, her eyes pop open in surprise! My rock
hard cock is now laying against her thigh.
	"Is that all for me?" she asks, kind of shyly.
	"Definitely," I reply.
	Then what are you waiting for?" she says, smiling. Then she
leans over and captures my mouth in one of the most sensuous kisses
ever!
	That was the last straw for me! I returned her kiss and at the
same time I positioned myself in the cradle of her thighs.
	I know this is what she wants as well, because she reaches
down and slips her hand around me. Gently she guides me to her
opening.
	One thrust and I am buried deep inside of her. Home at last.
This is truly where I always wanted to be.
	I try to keep my movements slow and easy. I want this to last
forever. By the look on Scully's face, she would seem to agree.
	I feel her body quake with the beginning of her orgasm and
then I feel her inner muscles clench around me. It is all I can do to
keep a slow, easy pace.
	We look at each other and our eyes lock.
	"It's okay, Mulder. Let go! Come ... with me ... baby!"
	Those words are more than I can stand. My pace suddenly
quickens as I feel my whole body tense.
	We are flying over a precipice but at least we're doing it
together!

(SCULLY POV)
	We lay in each other's arms until our breathing began to slow
once again.
	Mulder never ceases to amaze me. He is the most passionate,
loving, gentle man I've ever known.
	I look over at him and our eyes lock. There is SO much love in
those eyes.  They slowly cloud over with sadness and he turns his head
away from me.
	I sit up partway, leaning on one elbow. In doing so, I see the
clock on the bedside table. It says 11:55 pm. I knew that meant that I
would soon have to get our plan moving along.
	I lean over and kiss him softly, but he's all but asleep. I
waited a few more minutes and then I slipped out of bed. I was kind of
surprised that he hadn't woken as soon as I got out of bed. That had
happened numerous times before especially when he was scared or upset.
	As I approached the bathroom, I knew he was asleep as I could
hear his steady, even breathing.
	I really hated having to do this to him, but I took solace in
the fact that it was the only way to save his life.
	I returned to the bedroom, syringe in hand. I stood by the bed
and watched him sleep. Then I leaned over and brushed a stray lock of
hair from his face.
	I said a silent prayer that he would understand and forgive
me. Then I took the syringe and slipped the needle into his arm. He
must have been really sound asleep, because he didn't even flinch, and
believe me I know how much Mulder hates needles.
	I was told that the drug was pretty fast acting, but I was
surprised when I saw his eyes flutter open. He looked confused and
scared.
	His eyes popped wide open and were full of fear as the
paralysis overtook his body. It broke my heart. I leaned over and
quickly whispered in his ear.
	"Trust me, Mulder. It's going to be okay," I said.
	I knew by the look on his face that he didn't understand, but
I prayed that as things played themselves out, it would become clear
-- and he wouldn't hate me. ` I knew I had no time to waste, We had a
very small window of opportunity here.
	I climbed out of bed and slipped Mulder's shirt on over my
naked body.
	I screamed and ran towards the door. It was opened by a guard
in military garb.
	When I looked in his face, I was instantly angry. He looked
like he'd been looking forward to a quiet night and was NOT happy to
be disturbed.
	Somehow I managed to resist strangling him. We had come too
far to let this snivelling little private ruin it.
	I todl this Private ... Johansen, as his nametag told me, that
Mulder had collapsed.
	He grunted and said he was probably only faking. Then he
raised his voice when he told me that it wouldn't get him out of here.
	My temper was at the boiling point. How could one human being
be SO callous towards another? He should be glad I know it's not a
real emergency, because if it was, I don't think I oculd have
contained myself. I may be small, but I am a very capable FBI agent
and had been known to take out men twice my size.
	I told him that I was a medical doctor and that he definitely
wasn't faking.
	He smirked in disbelief. "Well, if you're a doctor, what are
you bothering me for? YOU take care of him!" This asshole was really
starting to get on my nerves.
	"I have no way of diagnosing and/or treating him here!" I tell
him, trying to hold my anger in check.
	"Let's face it," he says, smiling. "After tomorrow it won't
make much difference, now will it?" That was the last straw.
	Tears began to course down my cheeks ... a combination of
fear, frustration and anger!
	"I'm sure your superior would be very interested to know what
you and your buddies did to him!" I say panting at Mulder.
	I don't know if it was on purpose or not, but Mulder's timing
was perfect.  Right at this point he coughed and wheezed.
	The private who thought he was so smart a few minutes ago,
sobered instantly. Her eyes bugged out of his head and panic spread
across his face!
	"I'll go get the doc right now!" he said. He turned to go but
stopped and looked back at me. "I'll tell the nurse to call 911." With
that he was off -- running!
	I went back inside and knelt down beside Mulder. I leaned over
and whispered to him.
	"It's okay! Don't worry!" I said. I knew he must be
frightened, but I prayed his trust in me would carry him through.
	I put my ear to his chest and couldn't hear his heart beat. I
then placed my fingers on the side of his neck to feel for a pulse. It
was there, but barely.
	I hoped and prayed this doctor would be only too happy to
think he was dead. Once less problem to deal with. That way he
wouldn't have quite so thorough and the faint pulse would escape him.
	I was pulled back to the here and now by footsteps in the
hall.
	By the time the door opened, I was in the throws of mouth to
mouth.
	The doctor, Dr. Hill by name, pushed me out of his way. He
told Johansen "to keep me out of his way." Needless to say that only
fed my anger further I did not like his attitude, but I held my
tongue. After all, it was for Mulder. It was amazing what I could take
if it meant saving his life.
	I stood off to the side where Johansen had pushed me. I felt
my body start to tremble, although I thought it was more out of anger
than anything else.
	I knew I had to make this good -- make it believeable!
Mulder's life depended on it! It really wasn't that hard for me to
summon the tears. I had an ace in the hole, so to speak. I had already
experienced Mulder's death. I knew only too well that gut-wretching
pain. That, together with the horror I felt when I heard the sentence
they had imposed, were more than enoughto open the flood gates to the
max.
	After working frantically for approximately 20 minutes, Dr.
Hill finally pulled back. He slowly rose and pulled the sheet up over
Mulder's body.
	He looked at me as he headed towards the door.
	"I'm sorry," he said. He looked genuinely sad.
	I was somewhat surprised that I was still standing where
Johansen had put me. Every nerve and muscle in my body was so tight
they felt like they wereabout to snap. I was so tense my body actually
shook. EVERYTHING hinged on this doctor believing Mulder was dead.
	It's kind of ironic when you think of it. This doctor had to
believe Mulder was dead in order for him to live.
	As Dr. Hill put his hand on the doorknob, there was a sharp
knock from the other side. He jumped slightly, before pulling the door
open.
	Two paramedics stepped into the room. I felt vaguely
uncomfortable.
	They looked around expectantly. Then Dr. Hill spoke up. "It's
too late!  He's dead!"
	At those words my body shook involuntarily. I'm sure everyone
thought it was from grief. In reality, it was my muscles and tendons
beginning to relax. It was something of a relief. Dr. Hill bought it.
	One of the paramedics asked if he wanted them to take the body
to the morgue.
	Dr. Hill thought about it for several minutes, but finally
agreed.
	One paramedic went out into the hall to get the stretcher. The
other one handed Dr. Hill some forms he needed to fill out and sign.
	While Dr. Hill took care of the paperwork, the paramedics
lifted Mulder's body on to the stretcher.
	I was suddenly stricken with horrible fear! What if Doggett
hadn't been able to intercept the call? What if these were real
paramedics? My heart started to thump wildly and my pulse raced. I
took several deep breaths in an effort to calm myself so I could think
clearly.
	Dr. Hill looked up from the paperwork and said that he had to
go to his office to get some of the information.
	One of the paramedics went with him. The other stayed with
Mulder and I.
	I looked at him with the saddest face I could muster. I had
managed to calm myself. Doggett would never have suggested something
like this without being sure of his end. I realized I had no choice
but to trust that Doggett had held up his end of the deal. I'm not
used to relying on someone else to make sure things come out the way I
want them to.
	I asked the paramedic if I could have a minute -- to say
goodbye! He looked very sympathetic. He agreed to wait outside the
door.
	I fell to my knees beside the stretcher, and gently kissed his
cheek.
	I felt a hand softly touch my shoulder. When I looked up, the
two paramedics were standing there.
	"We have to get going, Miss!"
	I just nodded and slowly got to my feet. I stepped out of the
way and I think it was the hardest thing I've ever had to do -- let
those men walk out with him! Mulder was completely defenseless --
thanks to me! If anything happened to him I'd never forgive myself!
	I closed the door behind them and I was alone - so very alone!
	I looked solemnly around the room as a single tear slipped
from my eye.
	I hated what we had just done. I went against everything I
believed in. But then again, so did sentencing an innocent man to
death.
	They never had any intention of returning an innocent verdict
-- regardless of the case that was presented to them.
	They were willing to kill an innocent man to silence him. So
he would never be able to prove that their worst fears were true.
	I then refused to feel guilty about doing whatever it took to
make sure they didn't get their way. This way they could feel safe and
secure believing he was dead and I could have my very life back --
Mulder! I don't see how that could be wrong.
	As I scanned the room, I saw my teddy lying on the floor. I
picked it up and pulled it close to my body. I closed my eyes and
could instantly see the look on Mulder's face. I never wanted to
forget that look!
	I went to put in my bag when I stopped myself. Every time
either of us looked at it, it would remind us of this night.
	This was the beginning of a whole new life for us. I didn't
ever want to remember this night. The only thing I wanted to remember
was how much we love each other.
	I went over to the garbage and threw the teddy in. If Mulder
was really upset, I could get some more. I grinned at the thought.
Maybe I'd even take him with me ... Now THAT was a delicious idea!
	I grabbed my clothes and headed for the bathroom to show and
get dressed. I said a silent prayer that Mulder wasn't too scared!
	I knew I had a few hard days ahead of me, but once that was
over I'd be with Mulder. I just might not let him out of my sight
again.

(MULDER POV)
	This has got to be the most horrible experience of my life. I
can hear voices around me, but I can't move or respond. What the hell
is happening to me?
	The only thing I have to hold on to right now is the voice of
an angel -- Scully! She told me to trust her -- which I do. She told
me everything would be okay -- and I pray she's right. She told me to
wait for her -- and just where does she think I can go?
	Right now I am strapped down -- not that I could move anyway
-- I'm in a moving vehicle, where I'm going. I haven't got a clue.
Without Scully, it'll be hell.
	I can feel tears stinging behind my eyes. Scully ... I'm
getting scared now! Where are you?

(SCULLY POV)
	As soon as I got into my car, I heaved a sigh of relief. They
had believed it!
	I knew, however, that my mother would not be so easily
convinced. she could always read me like abook. It wasn't going to be
easy to lie to her, but it's what I HAD to do -- for Mulder!
	With any luck, some day I'd be able to tell her the truth. I
know she'd be upset, but I honestly believ she'd understand what I'd
done for the man I love.
	I knew I had to go and see my mother in order to set the rest
of our plan in motion, but I had to talk to Doggett. I had to make
sure everything went according to plan.
	I never thought I'd ever be able to understand how a criminal
felt about anything, but as I drove towards Doggett's I felt the
euphoria that surely came with succeeding in a plan.
	Can you imagine, me -- Dana, by the book, Scully -- ecstatic
that he had broken the law and gotten away with it? Even more than
that, I didn't regret it one little bit!

(MULDER POV)
	The vehicle has stopped moving now. The bed, which I suspect
must be a stretcher, is being removed.
	Whatever has been doen to me, has left me completely helpless.
I can't even open my eyes.
	About all I CAN do is hear what's going on around me ... and
think! I thought I had been in hell before, but nothing compares to
this!
	The more I think, the more frightened I become. What has
happened to Scully? When I'm almost at the end of my rope, I hear her
pleas ... "Trust me!"  "Wait for me!"
	If I don't soon find out, what's happening, I think I'll go
out of my mind.

(SCULLY POV)
	Doggett answered my knock on his door promptly. It was almost
like he was expecting me. He quickly ushered me inside.
	He assured me that the plan had gone off without a hitch. I
couldn't help thinking that it was probably the first time in our
lives that a plan that involved Mulder and I had gone off without a
hitch. I almost laughed at that.  ALMOST. Mulder was safe. That was
certainly a relief.
	I desperately needed to see him, but I understood when John
wouldn't tell me where he was. As long as I ddin't know where he was,
I couldn't be tempted to go to him before it was safe. We had come way
too far to screw it up now.
	Part of me was angry that he didn't trust me, but another part
of me knew I would be very tempted to go to him if I knew. I just kept
telling myself that it's only a few days and then we'll be together
for the rest of our lives. Unfortunately that doesn't make my need to
see him any less.
	I tell John how much I appreciate his help. I never could have
pulled this off without it. I'll never forget what he did for us.
	He simply said that he wouldn't have been able to live with
himself if he'd allowed an innocent man to be executed.
	When I left John's house, I headed for my mother's. I was not
looking forward to it, but it had to be done -- and done right.

**********

	I sat in my car for a good twenty minutes after I pulled up in
front of my mom's house.
	This would be the real test. If I could convince my Mom that
Mulder was dead, I could convince anyone.
	I shivered a bit to think of what would happen if I failed. I
would be forced to tell her the truth and that would put her in grave
danger.
	A part of her would be disappointed in me for what I've done,
but I think the other part would understand, give the circumstances.
	She always used to tell me that when you really loved someone
you would do anything for them. That's all I've done -- what I had to
to protect the man I love.
	I got out of the car slowly and walked to the front door. I
took a deep breath, raised my hand and knocked.
	I let my mind wander tot he pain and anguish I had felt over
the last few days. Within seconds, my eyes filled with tears.
	As I heard my Mom approach the door, it hit me that I would
have to say goodbye to her without her knowing I was saying goodbye.
In my mind, I had known it from the beginning, but just how my heart
realized it.
	By the time, my mom answered the door, there were tears
cascading into her arms.
	Her arms went around me and she gently led me inside. She took
me into the living room and sat down on the couch with me.
	She pulled back gently and looked into my eyes. Obviously
something terrible had happened.
	Knowing I was in no shape to talk, she just pulled me back to
her and waited for the tears and sobs to subside.
	I was finally releasing all the pent-up grief. I hadn't
allowed myself to release before and it really felt good.

(MULDER POV)
	I don't really know how long I've been here, but finally I
hear someone speaking.
	Finally I can get some answers ... find out what's happening
to me ... find out where I am and why ... but most importantly find
out what happened to Scully!
	If they hurt her, I swear to god, I'll kill them with my bare
hands! ...  God! Sometimes I can be such an idiot! I can't even move.
How am I going to kill anyone? Just the thought of them hurting her,
drives me crazy!
	I try to open my mouth and speak, but nothing happens. Damn
it! What is wrong with me?
	I hear someone ask how long it should take for the effects to
wear off.  He's told that it will probably be several hours.
	Why would someone do this to me? For what reason? Then it hits
me -- to get me away from Scully! Is she in the same predicament?
	I really can't take this much longer! I need some answers!

(SCULLY POV)
	Once I left my mom's, I felt pretty confident that everything
would be okay.
	I just had to get through making funeral arrangements and the
actual funeral. Then I'd be with Mulder and could forget all of this.
	When we had thought Mulder was dead before, I had insisted on
making the arrangements. Skinner had asked me to let him do it, but I
had refused. I knew him better than anyone else. Funny enought, we had
actually talked about it once.
	It was when I was so sick with the cancer. I had told him that
there were certain things I did and didn't want.
	As we talked, I could tell that he was very uncomfortable, but
he did listen. He even promised to make sure thing swere the way I
wanted them.
	He told me that when he died, there would be no need for any
big todo.  There would be more people who were glad he was dead, than
there would be who were grieving his death.
	That had cut me deeply and still did, mostly because he really
believed it was true.
	He had been a loner, most of his life. Everyone thought he was
weird. I don't think anyone else ever really got to know him the way I
did. He is the most caring, considerate man. I had ever known.
	When I arrived at my apartment there was a message to call
Monica.
	I quickly picked up the phone and dialed.
	She said that she just wanted to let me know that all of the
funeral arrangements had been made. I was surprised at how relieved I
was to hear that.
	"Monica," I asked hesitantly. "Is Mulder okay?"
	"The drug should be starting to wear off now, but it may take
several hours for it to be completely gone."
	I chew on my lip fighting the tears. He's so alone and
probably frightened.
	"Dana, are you still there?" she asks, concerned.
	"Yeah ... I'm just worried. He's all alone amongst strangers.
He's got to be scared! I just don't know how he'll react. He isn't
going to just believe what strangers tell him."
	"I know John and I thought about that too. We want you to
write him a letter to convince him to go along with the people he's
with. We'll see that he gets it," Monica says.
	She must have heard my deep intake of air, because she
continued.
	"He'll be okay, Dana ... I promise!"
	I knew they'd make sure he was okay, but I still couldn't help
worrying.  Maybe it was because everything had gone so well. I guess I
was expecting something to happen.
	I told Reyes that I would write the ltter and she promised to
come by later and pick it up.
	As soon as I hung up the phone, I headed to the bathroom.
Whenever I was really upset, a long, hot bath always seemed to calm me
down and make me feel better.
	It wasn't until I was in the tub that the dam burst. The tears
began to fall down my face, slowly at first but quickly speeding up. I
was releasing the rest of the pent-up anger and frustration this whole
situation had caused.
	I don't know how long I was like that, but when I finally
dragged myself out of the tub, the water had gone cold and I was
physically and emotionally exhausted.
	All I wanted to do was slip into bed and fall into a deep
restful sleep, but I knew I had to write that letter to Mulder.
	I wrapped myself in my cozy velour robe and went to the living
room. I got a pen and paper from my desk and went and curled up on the
couch.
	How could I tell him this so that he would understand? After
thinking for severasl minutes, I put the pent to paper and started to
write.
	Mulder,
		I suppose this is the time that will test how much
	you really trust me.
		I need you to co-operate with the people around you.
	They are on our side, I assure you.
		I will be with you soon, I promise. Once I am, I don't
	think I'll ever let you out of my sight again.
		Please believe me and trust me. I love you more than
	words could ever say. Hang on ... it won't be long!
								S

	I could feel tears rising to the surface again and I laid my
head against the back of the couch. I closed my eyes to keep the tears
from falling.
	I guess I must have fallen asleep, because the next thing I
remember is hearing someone knock on my door.
	I jumped slightly and the pen and paper cascaded to the floor.
I got up and went to the door. It was Monica.
	I opened the door and let her in. She had come to get Mulder's
letter.
	I was still a bit groggy from sleep, but I went over and got
the letter. I folded it and put it in the envelope.
	Monica looked at me a bit strangely when I took the letter
into my bedroom.
	On my dresser was a small bottle of perfume. Mulder had bought
it for me.  He'd said it reminded him of me.
	I knew it had been very expensive, so I had told him I would
only use it for special occasions.
	I opened the bottle and put a dab or two on the envelope. I
knew Mulder would remember.
	I returned to the livving room and gave the letter to Monica.
	"It won't be long now, Dana!"
	I smiled wistfully. I knew she was right, but somehow it felt
like forever.

(MULDER POV)
	Over the last several hours, I have slowly recovered from
whatever hell that was they had me in. I wouldn't wish that on my
worst enemy! It was horrible!
	Whoever these people are, they seem to be getting a bit
worried.
	I haven't let on to them that I am better. It's the only way I
can hope to surprise them. Then I will force them to tell me what the
hell is going on!  Then, and only then, will this whole mess be over!
	I hear the door open and I can hear two men talking. They are
discussing what else they can do to try and bring me around.
	These boys are in for a big surprise! They are coming down! By
the sound of their voics. I'm sure one is on each side of the bed.
	Suddenly, I fly off my bed to my right. As soon as my hands
connect with a body, I grab a hold and we both fall to the floor. I
make very sure, however, that I don't let go.
	Before the other man can even react, I have his buddy in a
headlock! I tell the other guy that if he comes any closer, I'll break
his buddy's neck.  Believe me, I'm more than prepared to follow
through.
	I think the guy believes me because he doesn't move. He just
stares at me, with his mouth open.
	I wait several minutes for him to speak. When he doesn't, I
forge ahead. I can't afford to waste any more time. I don't have any
idea how much time has gone by and I don't know where Scully is. She
could be injured and I have to find her.
	"What the hell is going on here? Why am I being held against
my will?" I bark out.
	"You ... you ... you're not!" he stammers out.
	My mind starts scrambling. Of course I am! why else would I be
here? Then it hits me. They want to be rid of me, so they can finish
Scully off. I'm not about to let that happen!
	"Where's Scully?" I shout.
	He looks at me, perplexed.
	"Look, I don't know anyone named Scully, but we're on your
side."
	"Don't lie to me!" I say my anger flourishing. "Tell me the
truth or he gets it ..." I pull until he starts to choke!
	"I'm not lying! I swear!" I say, my eyes dancing around the
room.
	Before I can decide, what to do, I feel something hit me on
the bakc of the head ---HARD!
	I feel myself fall forward as blackness enfolds me.

(REYES POV)
	When I arrived at the safe house with Scully's letter,
everyone was upset.
	I finally got someone to tell me that Mulder had woken up. He
had gone completely crazy. He had grabbed one of the doctors and
threatened to break his neck if they didn't tell him what had happened
to someone named Scully.
	I immediately told them to take me to him. This would be
straightened out in a couple of minutes.
	I guess I should have asked them how the situation had been
handled. Maybe then I would have been prepared for what I saw when I
walked into the room.
	They opened the door and stepped back for me to enter.
	As I walked into the room, Mulder raised his head and opened
his mouth to scream at me. He stopped when he realized he knew me!
	They had him in four point restraints and as soon as he
recognized me, his eyes filled with tears and a few slipped down his
face.
	I turned to the guy behind me and told him to remove the
restraints -- NOW!"
	He quickly told me that he couldn't do that. When he saw how
mad I was getting, he said he'd go and get the doctor. With that, he
turned on his heel and ran down the hall.
	I went over beside the bed and told Mulder everything was
okay. He signed like that was the biggest relief he could imagine.
	"Scully?" he asked, almost afraid of the answer.
	"She's fine. She'll be with you soon!" I told him.
	As I began to undo the restraints, I started telling him our
plan.
	He just looked at me, unbelieving. I think he had a hard time
believing that anyone would go to that much trouble for him.
	"She loves you an awful lot, Mulder. This was her idea. John
and I only helped her work out the details."

(SCULLY POV)
	The next several days went by fairly quickly. I had to go
through all of my things and decide the few items I would take with
me. I was actually somewhat surprised what few things I really wanted
to take.
	Mulder was on my mind consultantly. Monica told me that he now
knew what was happening. That certainly helped ease my anxiousness,
but didn't help my need to see him at all.
	As long as I kept busy, it wasn't too bad. The nights were the
worst. Every night as I lay in bed my need for him grew. Thankfully it
was only a couple more days before we would be off on our new life
together. If it were anymore than that, I don't think I could make it.

(MULDER POV)
	After Reyes left, I lay here thinking. How did I ever get so
lucky? there was no one else in this world who would have bothered to
go to all this trouble just to save my sorry ass. She continually
amazes me!
	As the night slowly passed, I wondered if she missed me as
much as I missed her.
	Every fibre of my being craved the feel of her naked body
along side mine.  Sometimes I thought I would go out of my mind if I
couldn't touch her soon.

(SCULLY POV)
	I finally managed to get my suitcase packed. Other than
clothes, there weren't that many things I wanted to take with me.
Mulder was everything I wanted.
	I packed a fully stocked meidcal kit. I had learned the wisdom
of that years ago. We had been able to avoid many hospital visits over
the years that way. With Mulder you had to be prepared for anything.
The longer we could stay away from hospitals, the better.
	I took the doll Mulder had given me before William was born.
It represented so much to me. I took a small photo album of pictures
of our son, as well as my special bottle of perfume. The only other
thing I took was Mulder's Knick's shirt. It had become my favorite
nightshirt while he was gone.
	I left instructions in the letter, I wrote my mother, telling
her what to do with everything else.
	My suitcase, as well as my mother's letter, were waiting by
the door when John and Monica showed up to get them.
	I hurried to the door as soon I heard her knock. I had come to
recognize Monica's knock, just as I had Mulder's all those years ago.
Sometimes I had wondered though if I actually recognized his knock or
if I had just felt his presence close by.
	God knows my feeling his presence close by had saved both of
us several times over the years.
	When I opened the door, John and Monica both came inside
quickly.
	Monica immediately picked up on my nervousness.
	"You're almost there, Dana!" she said as she put her hand on
my arm reassuringly. "The funeral's tomorrow and then ..."
	"I know, I replied. "It just feels like forever!"
	Trying to change the subject just a bit John spoke up.
	"is your bag packed?"
	"Yeah, it's right here," I say as I walk over to it. "I have
one favor to ask however."
	"What's that?" John asks.
	I pick up the letter for my Mom. I can feel tears welling in
my eyes just thinking about what writing this letter took out of me.
	"Could you please see that my mom gets this letter?" Both John
and Monica look at me, concerned.
	"You don't have to worry," I tell them. "I didn't tell her
anything -- not really! I just couldn't leave her to wonder if I was
dead or alive!" I said, tears threatening to spill.
	Monica spoke first. "Okay, Dana. We'll take care of it." She
took the letter and put it in her pocket.
	"Thanks," I said.
	"I think we better go," John said as he picked up my suitcase
and headed to the door. "Tomorrow is a big day and you need to get
some rest."
	I just nod as they head out the door and I close and lock it
behind them.
	John was right. I did need some rest, but I knew there would
be no rest for me until I was with Mulder again.

**********

	The sun shone brightly which helped raise my spirits -- at
least a bit.
	I was SO nervous. My stomach felt like there were a million
butterflies fluttering around inside.
	This was the final phase of our plan. Everything else had gone
off without a hitch. I supposed that's part of the reason why I was SO
nervous. Things never went this smoothly -- not for Mulder and I.
	I was sitting in the kitchen, trying to get a cup of tea into
my stomach. I knew I should eat, but just the thought turned my
stomach.
	I recognized Monica's knock immediately.
	"Come on in, Monica," I called out to her.
	I heard the door open and close again as I came out of the
kitchen.
	"Are you just about ready to go?"
	"Yeah," I said heading to the bedroom. "I just have to get my
shoes."
	I slipped my feet into my shoes and turned to leave. I stopped
at the door and looked back.
	There were so many memories in this apartment, particularly in
this room.
	It was in this very bed that Mulder first made love to me.
	I had just returned from the doctor where he had told me the
last IVF hadn't worked. I was devastated.
	As a woman, I felt completely useless. I knew I was a good
doctor, a good pathologist and a good agent, but as a woman I felt
worthless.
	Mulder had been so wonderful that night. He held me tenderly
and told me not to give up on a miracle. As it turned out, Mulder was
right -- William was our miracle!
	Mulder leaned down and kissed me softly, reassuringly.
	I still don't know what came over me that day. When Mulder
went to pull away, I wouldn't let him.
	I couldn't hide what I had been feeling for so long for one
more minute.
	I pulled him down to me and kissed him, but this kiss was deep
and passionatre. No words were necessary. We knew what we wanted.
	We meshed together like we had been made for each other.
(Personally, I think we were).
	I was drawn out of my reverie by a hand on my shoulder.
	I turned suddenly to see Monica's compassionate eyes looking
back at me.
	"Are you okay?" she asks.
	"Yeah," I say sadly. (I have to admit that the 'sad' part is
harder now, knowing that in a couple of hours I will be with Mulder
again!) "... just memories!" then I turn and walk to the closet, get
my coat and walk out of the apartment for the last time.

(MULDER POV)
	I woke up early this morning. If I was really honest, I barely
slept last night.
	I am so anxious for this day to move forward. Reyes told me
that I would see Scully today.
	I know she told me that Scully is fine, but I'm afraid that a
part of me won't believe it until I see her with my own eyes. Over the
years I have learned not to take people's words at face value.
	I love this woman more than I ever thought possible. She has
lost so much because of me and now she has given up so much once again
for me. Yet, somehow, she still loves me! I didn't think I'd ever be
so lucky!
	the minutes seem to drag by unbearably slowly. I am not a
patient man and just sitting here waiting is driving me crazy.
	I just pray that I can make a life for us that will be
everything she ever dreamt of. I don't ever want her to regret the
decision she's made.
	Monica told me that Scully will be bringing everything we need
to start new lives -- including new identities.
	As much as I don't want to let the members of the conspiracy
get away with what they have done to us. I have finally come to a
point in my life where I can let it go.
	After this last episode, I finally realize there IS no way to
beat them.
	Scully and I know have a chance at a new life ... a better
life ...a life together! I'm not about to screw that up.
	Sculy deserves so much more than she's had in this life SO
far.
	My aim now is to see that she gets the life she so richly
deserves. She seems to think that lies with me. I pray to God I don't
disappoint her.

(SCULLY POV)
	As we pull up to the church, I keep telling myself that it's
only a couple more hours. If I get through them, then I'll be with
Mulder.
	As soon as I step into the church, my mom is there to greet
me.
	She all but physically pushes Monica away and wraps her arms
around me. I feel bad for Monica, but as soon as I look at her I know
she understands.  She has been such a good friend to me.
	After my mom coddles me for a few more minutes, I pull away.
She looks hurt.
	Mom, I have to get through the next couple of hours relatively
in tact. If I start to cry now, I don't stand a chance.
	She nodded her head and stepped back. She seemed to
understand.
	I turned and walked iinto the sanctuary. It was almost toally
empty. It broke my heart.
	Was there nobody else who ever got to know the man he really
was?
	Off to the side I see Skinner and four or five other agents
from the bureau. I almost chuckled, wondering what he had to threaten
in order to get them to attend.
	I walked quickly down the aisle and took a seat at the front.
Only a few minutes went by before I felt someone sit beside me.
	He reached out and touched my arm. I knew immediately that it
was Skinner.  I didn't even have to look at him to know that he just
didn't know what to say.
	"Are you okay?" he finally asks.
	"About as well as can be expected," I reply. I don't look at
him for fear of him seeing things I don't want him to see.
	He once told me that, particularly where Mulder was concerned,
my eyes told the whole story.
	I think it was when we thought Mulder was dead before. He had
assumed Mulder was my baby's father and I asked him how he knew that.
I thought we had hidden it very well.
	He said that it had been obvious for a long time, how much I
cared about Mulder. He said he could see it every time I looked at him
or talked about him.
	I guess I hadn't covered it nearly as well as I thought.
	I was brought back to the present by the minister offering his
condolences.
	I thanked him. Then he asked if we were ready to begin the
services. I told him that would be fine, but inside I'm saying, the
sooner we start, the sooner we're done and the sooner I can go to
Mulder.
	I have to confess that I really didn't listen to much of the
service. I kind of zined out. I think everyone just attributed it to
my grief.
	I think I did pretty well. I got through the whole service
without any tears. I wasn't so lucky at the grave side however.
	My tears fell freely when it suddenly hit me that I WAS saying
goodbye to Fox Mulder.
	By tomorrow, Fox Mulder would no longer exist -- not as far as
the rest of the world was concerned. Neither would Dana Scully!
	Once the tears began, they fell fast and hard! When I finally
managed to pull myself together, it was only because there wasn't a
tear left in my body.
	Finally people were beginning to dispurse and head home. My
mom wanted me to come and stay with her for a few days. I told her I
couldn't go as I was going away for a few days to pull myself
together.
	I know she was worried about my being alone, but at least she
didn't argue with me about it.
	When almost everyone had left, Monica and I slowly walked to
her car.
	Once inside the car, she siad, "Are you ready?"
	I nodded and said, "I feel like I've been waiting for this all
of my life."

**********

	We drove for about an hour, north east out of DC. Every mile
we travelled, I became more anxious. I was SO wound up and I knew the
only cure was seeing Mulder.
	A short while later, Monica pulled up in front of what
appeared to be a huge mansion. It was beautiful! The landscaping was
spectacular.
	Monica pulled up to the locked front gate. She quickly got out
of the car and went over to what appeared to be a small keypad on the
fence beside the gate.
	She punched in a series of digits and by the time she got back
in the car, the gate was opening.
	The grounds were so immense that it took us about 10 minutes
to get to our destination. The butterflies that had been in my stomach
all day, had now taken up residence in my throat. I didn't know if I
could even swallow.
	When Monica knocked on the door, a man quickly answered and
ushered us inside. I thought he was one of the paramedics, from the
base, but I couldn't be sure.
	The man took us into the living room and told us to make
ourselves comfortable.
	I was far too nervous to sit so I went and stood over by the
window. I just stared out at the lovely landscape.
	I really don't know how much time passed. I didn't even
realize someone had come into the room, until I felt his hands on my
waist. I knew instantly that it was Mulder.
	He pulled me back against his chest and his arms slipped
around me. I felt my knees wobble slightly and I just relaxed into his
embrace.
	We stayed like that for several minutes, drinking each other
in.
	I couldn't bring myself to pull away, so I just slowly turned
so we were facing each other.
	My arms went around his neck. When our eyes met, I knew I was
where I had always been meant to be.
	Mulder bent over and kissed me and I was gone. The only thing
my mind was comprehending was the myriad of sensations that were
coursing through my body. I would have been perfectly happy if the
rest of the world ceased to exist ... that there was just me and
Mulder!
	I felt Mulder pull away and I was very disappointed. Then I
heard someone clearing their throat. When I looked up I saw Monica
looking somewhat uncomfortable.
	As I took a step backwards, I understood why.
	Most of the buttons on my blouse were undone. Mulder's shirt
had been pulled out of his jeans and his jeans were undone. I could
feel myself blush. In our need for each other , we lost sight of where
we were.
	I opened my mouth to apologize. We're leaving now. The house
is yours for the night. The jeep parked outside is registered to one
Dale Parkhurst.  That's who you'll be after today, Mulder. Dana,
you'll be his wife, Dot. All the papers are in your suitcase," she
said, then paused.
	I wanted to go over and hug her firmly and thank her for
everyting she'd done, but I couldn't bring myself to let go of Mulder.
It was like I was afraid he might disappear if I lost contact.
	Monica strode across the room and hugged us both. I was going
to miss her, of that I was sure. Then she turned and left before we
both started to blubber.

(MULDER POV)
	Without a doubt this had been the longest day of my life.
	I was almost climbing walls by the time Joe came and said
Scully was here.
	I felt like a teenager again, all nervous and anxious. I even
had to check how I looked in the mirror before I left my room. I knew
Scully wouldn't care, but I had to do it anyway.
	When I entered the room, she was standing looking out the
window. She was the most precious sight I had ever seen. I just stood
and watched her for a few moments.
	Then I crossed the room and slipped my arms around her waist.
She must melted into my embrace. This was sure heaven.
	After a few minutes of what almost seemed like absorbing each
other's essence, Scully slowly turned around and put her arms around
my neck. I could resist no longer.
	I bent down and kissed her and it was like there was nobody
else in the world, except the two of us.
	I vaguely became aware of a sound like someone clearing their
throat.
	I caught Reyes out of the corner of my eye and pulled away. I
knew Scully was upset, but as soon as she saw Reyes she blushed.

(SCULLY POV)
	Once the others had left, I pulled Mulder back to me. I just
wanted to kiss him again and carry on where we'd left off.
	Obviously Mulder had other ideas. I was disappointed, but I
let him lead me over to the couch and sit me down. By the glint in his
eye, I knew he had something up his sleeve.
	"You wait here," he said as he bent down and kissed me
quickly. I'll be right back.
	I smiled as he moved away quickly. He was like a kid who had a
surprise for his parent -- a very GOOD surprise!
	It was almost 10 minutes later before he returned, smiling
like the cheshire cat.
	He sat down on the couch beside me and pulled me into his
arms. I definitely liked the direction things were heading.
	After several minutes, cuddling and nuzzling, he rose from the
couch.  (Trust me, when I tell you that there was another part of him
that had risen to the occasion!)
	He took my hand and pulled me to my feet. Given his current
state, I felt sure I was about to get what I had been craving ever
since they had wheeled him out of that room at the base.
	Instead of taking me to the bedroom, he led me past ... to the
bathroom.
	When I looked inside the entire room was illuminated by dozens
of candles that were placed all around the room.
	As much as I normally enjoyed a hot bath, it was the last
thing on my mind right now.
	He smiled and led me inside. That's when I noticed that it was
a large whirlpool bath.
	He reached out and started to undo my blouse. Everytime he
touched me, the sensations seemed to be 10 times more powerful than
before. Maybe that's what they mean by absence makes the heart grow
fonder. Mind you, these sensations had absolutely nothing to do with
my heart.
	Mulder seemed to have put a lot of thought into this and I
didn't want to let him down. A co-ed whirlpool defiinitely had
possibilities!
	I reached out and pulled his tee-shirt over his head. It
wasn't until I reached out and began to undo his jeans that he
realized what I was thinking.
	We both started tugging at our own clothes, wanting to get
into that tub as soon as possible.
	The water was deliciously warm as I slid into the tub with
Mulder right behind me.
	He pulled me back against him, kissing and nuzzling down the
side of my neck. As I relaxed back against him I could feel the
beginnings of his erection pressing against my butt.
	My baser instincts wanted me to just roll over and fuck the
hell out of him.
	As much as we both wanted to be joined as one, I knew we would
enjoy a slow, easy coupling much more.
	I reached around behind and pulled his mouth to mine. I kissed
him deeply and passionately. I felt a burst of euphoria wash over me
when I realized I could do this every day for the rest of my life.
	Not breaking the kiss, I slid my ass over beside him. then
with a free hand, I reached under the water and slipped my fingers
around him.
	I'm a bad girl! The instant out flesh connected, he almost
choked. I don't think he was expecting me to do that.
	I gently rubbed my hand up and down his length. His hips began
to thrust involuntarily and he tossed his head back and forth as he
groaned deep in his throat.
	He finally reached down and pulled my hand from him.
	"Stop!" He managed to get out between gasps.
	I smiled and then leaned down close to his ear.
	"Wasn't I doing it right?" I asked innocently.
	"No," he said. "... too right!" He was panting now and having
trouble putting two words together.
	Before I knew what was happening, I was on my back and Mulder
was on top of me.
	"Ready?" he asked.
	"Oh yeah," I said enthusiascially. What I really meant was, of
course, I'm ready... I've been ready all day every day since I last
saw you.
	I wrapped my legs around him and with one thrust he was buried
to the hilt inside of me. God how I had missed him. I wondered how I
had ever survived the last year without him.
	Mulder tried desperately to slow his movements, but after a
couple more thrusts, I felt the beginning of the most powerful orgasms
I could ever remember.
	"It's okay. Come with me!" I gasped out.
	As if that was what he was waiting to hear, I felt his body
tense as he emptied into me.
	We lay there in the warm whirlpool, while we floated back to
earth from the most incredible high ever. We held each other close and
kissed softly.
	"Just think, Mulder. We can do this everyday for the rest of
our lives!" I said sleepily.
	"Hmmm!" was all he could get out before falling asleep, but by
the smile on his face. I knew he approved.

(MAGGIE SCULLY POV)
	I hadn't been home very long when I heard the knock on my
door.
	I couldn't imagine who could be at my door. My friends knew me
well enough to know that I would need sometime to myself.
	I was SO worried about Dana. As usual she had held herself
together admirably, but I knew she had to be in terrible pain. She'd
had to bury him twice in just onver a year.
	I really hated the idea of her being by herself, but I also
knew she was like me. When she hurt that much, she needed some private
time. If I didn't hear from her in a day or two, I'd call and make
sure she was okay.
	You can imagine my surprise then, when I opened my front door
and saw Dana'a new partner -- John Doggett!
	"Hello, Mrs. Scully," he said, pausing.
	"Maggie, please," I replied. Seeing him, kind of threw me. I
was afraid something had happened to Dana. He must have sensed my
apprehension, because he spoke before I had a chance to continue.
	"I won't take much of your time, Maggie," he said, somewhat
uncomfortably.  "Dana asked me to do her a favor."
	In my worry for Dana, my manners had fled. I felt badly. I
stepped back and gestured for him to enter.
	As he stepped inside, he reached into his pocket. I closed the
door behind him, he had his arm extended towards me with an envelope
in his hand.
	"Dana asked me to give this to you," he said.
	My heart took a nose-dive as I reache dout and took the
envelope from his hand. My hands were shaking. I knew this couldn't be
good news.
	She said this would explain everything," he said as he laid
his hand on mine reassuringly. Then he turned and was out the door
before I could say a word.
	I walked into the living room and sat on the couch. I held the
envelope to my breast. I was scared to death of what the words would
tell me.
	A tear slipped down my cheek and then I tore open the
envelope.
	I recognized my daughter's writing immediately. Her writing
had always been neat and tidy, particularly for a doctor!
	I could remember in med-school, the other students used to
tease her about it. They said if she kept it up, they would all be
expected to have such good penmanship.
	Par for the course, my daughter never let that sway her. She
was used to being different. It didn't bother her.
	When I looked down at the paper in front of me, my eyes were
blurred with tears.
	I reached up and wiped the tears from my eyes. Then I looked
at the page in front of me and started to read.

	Mom:
		I'm sure by virtue of the fact that I'm not there,
	that you are upset as you begin to ready this letter.
		I wish I could be there to tell you this in person,
	but I can't. I hope you can bring youself to understand
	and forgive me.
		I have had to make an extremely difficult decision
	as far as where my life will go from here.
		Please kow I love you, Mom, but the decision I have
	made is the only one I could live with.
		I told you I was going away for a few days, which
	isn't completely true.
		To be honest, I don't know when or if I'll ever be
	able to return. It will be a long time before I'll even
	be able to contact you again.
		Please take solace in the fact that, as you read
	this letter, I am happier than I ever thought possible.
		I love you and I miss you already by I NEED to be
	where I am now.
							Dana

	I dropped the paper to my lap as tears flooded my cheeks.
	I bothered me greatly to think that I might never see my
daughter again, but the hope in her words, gave me solace.
	I couldn't stay angry at her. She had done what she had to do,
and if I was reading between the lines properly, she truly was happy!
	I needed to believe she was happy. All I hoped was that
someday I would see her again ... her and Fox!!

THE END