From: ~Cathey~ Date: 30 Mar 2003 12:21:49 -0800 Subject: xfc: NEW: Seed (1 of 4) R by Cathey Scully Source: atxc Title: Seed Author: Cathey Scully Rating: R Spoilers: None Category: S, R, A, AU, Pre-XF, Kidfic Keywords: Mulder/Scully Romance, Alternate Universe, Kidfic Summary: If a young Scully had a child with someone else, would Mulder still love her? Feedback/Archive: I love feedback, and I'd love for this to be archived. If you want to use this anywhere, just tell me where it's going, and what you thought. Disclaimer: Not mine, except for Tucker. And since I'm not making money off of this, don't sue me! The title is the name of a song by the wonderful, talented Angie Aparo. Notes: Jessie, I'll miss you. To read more of my fics, visit: http://catheysfic.tripod.com ~ ~ ~ Sometimes I wonder where you are Sometimes I wonder how you stand the dark There is a time for every seed Once there were two now there are three Wrestle your heart pinned to the ground Is there enough love to go around ~Seed by Angie Aparo * * * Part 1 "Hey stranger," she smiled at the sound of his voice, spinning to face him. "Hey yourself," she answered, "Sit down." Hastily she cleared a spot at the table for him. "Where've you been the last few days?" Dana bit her lip; she was caught off guard by the question. Should she tell him? Finally she answered, "I ran off to the Bahamas with the pool guy Ricardo," she deadpanned. Fox laughed, mock hurt. "I'm wounded, you're cheating on me." "Don't feel bad, I still need you. I'm almost a week behind in every class," Dana grinned, leaning over to press a friendly kiss to his lips. "What can I do?" he asked, reaching for her open book and tugging her against his side. Grinning, she pulled out her assignment list. They were still working when Dana's watch beeped, signaling the start of a new hour. She looked and cursed. "Shit, I have to get home," she muttered, moving away from Fox and shoving her books into her backpack. "But we're not done," Fox protested, feeling a little empty without her nestled into his side. "I know, I know, but I need to go," Dana sighed, wishing he already knew her secret. "Do you understand any of what we've worked on?" he asked, knowing that despite his efforts, he was more concentrated on the flirtations and bantering going back and forth between them. "No," Dana admitted as much. She took a deep breath. He had a right to know. He'd been one of the people she'd deceived. "Can you . . . do you have any plans for tonight?" "No, why?" "Can you come with me?" "Sure," he answered, surprised. "Sure, I'm all yours." "Good. I'll even make you dinner as payment." "Well then you've definitely got yourself a deal," he smiled, watching her still-jerky movements. "Hey, calm down. We'll get this stuff done. I'll especially make sure you understand it too," he brushed a hand up and down her shoulder, smiling at her. "Thanks Fox," she smiled slightly, standing up on tip-toes and kissing him softly before shouldering her bag and jingling her keys to signal her willingness to leave. ~ ~ ~ Dana opened the door silently, leading Fox in before reaching out to take her backpack from his fingers. Fox shook his head and asked where he should set it down. She sighed and pointed to a spot in the corner. It landed with a squeak, and Dana laughed. "Just toss that to me," she held out her hands for the plush, squeaky block and lobbed it into a playpen at the back of the room. "Dana, you're home," a relieved sounding, older woman with dark hair stepped from the shadows of the hallway. Dana turned and smiled in her direction. "Hey mom. Sorry I'm so late, I was trying to catch up on all my work." "It's alright, but your father just called, I have to go pick Charles up. I swear, I never should have agreed to that first earring." Dana grinned at her mom, but chose to ignore the comment about her younger brother. "How was he?" she asked instead, lowering her voice. "He was an angel, like always. I put him down, but he wants to see you before bed." "Alright. Thanks mom, I'll see you tomorrow," Dana kissed her mother's cheek. They turned toward the door and Dana saw Fox still standing there. She remembered that her mom had never met Fox. "Mom, before you go, I want you to meet Fox Mulder. Fox, this is my mom." "Nice meeting you," Fox shook her hand slowly. Maggie returned the sentiment, but had to leave immediately. "Nice dcor," Fox remarked, looking pointedly at the obvious signs of a child. "Make yourself at home. I need to take care of something real quick," Dana stopped, deciding that she could trust him with her secret. "Come with me, I want to introduce you to someone." "Who?" Fox asked. "Your competition," she teased, slipping her hand into his and tugging him into the hallway. They entered a dimly lit nursery and Fox's eyes settled on the auburn-haired toddler standing against the railing of the crib that rested up against the wall. Upon seeing Dana, the baby chortled with glee. "Mama!" "Hello my baby," she cooed, stepping forward to tug the child from the crib. He cuddled into her arms. "Grandma said you were waiting for me, but it looks to me like you were ready to jump ship and run." Dana bounced the boy gently, pressing her nose and lips into the soft auburn curls at the top of his head. The child giggled, holding onto the collar of her shirt. "Fox, this is my little boy, Jonathan. Tucker, this is mommy's friend, Fox," she whispered to the boy, kissing his temple. Jonathan looked to Fox. "Dada?" The two chuckled nervously. "No, honey. Fox isn't your daddy." Jonathan slipped his thumb into his mouth, and Dana smiled, rocking him in her arms. She started to hum, keeping a slow pace. Jonathan drifted off, holding out until the very last moment in which his eyelids slipped closed. Once Dana was sure he slept, she smiled over at Fox. "Surprise." "Big surprise. How old is he?" "Sixteen months." Fox did the math. "I never knew you were pregnant." "I hid it. From everyone. Now my family, the neighbors, and you are the only ones who know," Dana answered, kissing Jonathan's forehead. "It doesn't make you very popular." "Not when you're a teenager doing it on your own," Fox finished for her. "Hey, you promised me dinner. You cook, I'll hold him, and then we can finish up your work after dinner." "Okay," Dana agreed. "Thank you." "For what?" "Not heading for the hills," Dana replied, smiling sheepishly, passing the toddler to him. All three of them wound up in the kitchen, with Dana standing at the stove stirring ground beef as it simmered, and Fox standing against the counter, cradling Jonathan's head against his shoulder. "Tell me," he requested, "how'd you end up raising a baby alone?" Dana sighed, closing her eyes. "It was my senior year. My boyfriend and I had been together for almost three years, and we decided to take another step up. We were careful every time. I couldn't go on the pill, because there was no way I could have told my parents why I needed it." "But?" he prompted. "But one night, while I was asleep, he wasn't careful. When I woke up and realized that he'd done that, I broke it off. A month later I was holding a positive pregnancy test. Abortion was not an option, and Tucker was a part of me that I wouldn't even dream of giving away." "You were raped," Fox murmured, his heart clenching in a manner he wasn't accustomed to. "Well, yeah." "Does he even know that he's a father?" "No. I'll never tell him. As far as I care, I'll never even see him again. So it's just Tucker and me." "Why do you call him Tucker?" "It's his middle name. Jonathan just seems like such a long, formal name for such a tiny little boy." "Ahh." "You can put him down. He will start to get heavy." "I'm fine," Fox answered. "What else can I do to help?" "Why don't you hand him to me and grab the plates from the top shelf," Dana requested, pointing to an upper cabinet. Fox nodded and handed the baby back to her surprised that he missed the feeling. Dana cradled her son with one hand, and covered the meat with her other. She watched as Fox maneuvered around her kitchen. "What?" he asked, noticing her scrutiny. "Nothin'," Dana grinned. "You look very, comfortable here." "Thanks," he replied, embarrassed. ~ @ ~ Dana wiped sleep from her eyes and tried to focus on what Fox was explaining. Hiding a yawn behind her hand, she shifted closer to her study partner. "You okay?" he asked, noticing her lack of concentration. "Yeah, yeah. I'm good. Keep going," she requested, finding herself listening to nothing but the soft intonations of his voice. An hour later, Dana looked at her watch and groaned. "It's almost one am." "We're almost done." "No we aren't," Dana replied, shooting him an exasperated look. "Let's just call it a night, okay?" "Okay. Let me get my stuff together, and I'll let you get to bed." Dana thought for a few moments, weighing her rational thoughts against the feelings she'd always had for him. She decided to take a chance. "Fox," she touched his arm. Her fingers slipped down to lace with his. "Don't go." "What?" "Stay," she whispered, leaning in to kiss him. ~ & ~ He awoke the next morning to find Dana curled against his back, and one of her hands over a certain part of his anatomy. His very excited anatomy. Quickly, he took her hand and put it in safer territory. His mind recalled the night before. Heaving a sigh, he rolled away from her. Staying the night had been a huge mistake. Making love -no- having sex had been an even bigger one. He couldn't handle a more serious relationship with her. No matter how he felt about her before. He dressed quickly, needing to get out of there. To get away from her, and from the child that was sleeping in the next room. To get away from his feelings. He was almost through the door of her bedroom when she blinked sleepily, sitting up in bed. "Fox? Where're you going?" "Back to my dorm. I'll see you later." "Is something wrong?" Dana asked, worried, and added, "Did I-do something?" "No," he lied. "No, I just need to go." "Okay," Dana replied, not fully convinced. "I'll see you later then." Dana stood, absolutely naked, and crossed over to him. He tried not to flinch when she wrapped her arms around his neck. "Thank you for helping me study." "You're welcome, anytime." "I'll see you later," she whispered, kissing his lips gently. "Okay?" "Yeah, see you later," he answered, disengaging from her embrace and leaving the house. He didn't miss the hurt in her eyes, but he ignored the pain in his own heart. End of Part 1 Part 2 ~ ~ ~ I wrote this song for the bounty of life Don't second guess what nature has in mind Sometimes I wonder where you are Sometimes I wonder how you stand the dark ~Seed, Angie Aparo ~ ~ ~ Dana wiped her eyes gently. She should have known. He regretted being with her. Of course he did. Why would he want to have a physical relationship with her? She was short, redheaded, and she had a child. Why would any man want to have a relationship with her? Taking a deep breath, she straightened and moved over to her dresser. She dressed slowly, knowing that she should just move on. She'd learned her lesson. Every male on the damn planet was the exact same. Dana sighed, leaving her bedroom and wandering into the nursery. Jonathan was waiting for her, his eyes dazzling despite his deceivingly docile posture. Dana lifted him out and held him tightly against her chest. "Are you ready for some breakfast, baby?" He nodded, making her smile despite the heavy feeling in her chest. "Okay Tucker, let's get some food." Dana had just dipped the spoon back into Tucker's food, when the phone trilled. Giving Tucker the spoon so he could try to feed himself, she went to answer the phone. "Hello?" "Dana, it's mom." Dana rolled her eyes, of course it was. "Hi mom." "Is there something wrong?" "No mom, just trying to keep Tucker from decorating the kitchen in strained peaches." Maggie chuckled. "I just wanted to check in. Is Fox still there?" "Mom!" Dana half-squealed. "No, for your information, he's gone. He left a while ago." "He stayed overnight?" "It was after one in the morning when we stopped studying." "How did he react to meeting Jonathan?" "He stayed until after one, didn't he?" Dana replied, trying to keep from sounding bitter. "I like him. He seems like a nice boy." "He's just a study partner, mom." "Dana, if he were just a study partner, you wouldn't have let him see Tucker." Dana knew her mom was right. She pretended to ignore her mother's comment and took the food from Tucker's highchair. Reaching behind her, she grabbed a washcloth to wipe both him and the tray clean. Unlatching the chair, she picked her son out, and settled him on the floor. Dana watched as he rolled onto his knees, and then staggered to his feet. He toddled over to her and touched her thighs, making her smile and lean down to kiss him lightly on the nose. He laughed and took off into the other room. "Dana, are you there?" "Yeah, but I've got to go. My little marathon runner just took off." "Alright. Would you like some company until you have to leave for class?" "Only if you're willing to give it." "I'll be there in 15 minutes." ""Kay," Dana whispered, pleased to have the company, to not be alone with her thoughts. ~ @ ~ Later that day Dana knew that he was watching her before he even said a word. She shifted her hold on Tucker before turning around to see him smiling almost bashfully. He caught up with her, and they fell into step, walking beside each other silently. "I looked for you on campus." "I only have one class on Thursdays, so I bring Tucker with me, and then we spend the rest of the day together." "Got room for one more?" Fox asked. "Let's see. What do you think, Tucker?" Dana asked, kissing her baby's cheeks. Tucker giggled, covering his eyes and mouth. "I think that's a yes," Fox chuckled. "Or a no," Dana shot back. He stopped. "About this morning," Fox started. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean-" "Forget about it. It won't happen again." "What do you mean?" "I mean, that you've already gotten into my pants, and I was a lousy lay; so what's the fucking point?" Dana accused, covering her son's ears to keep him from hearing her harsh language. "Dana, I'm sorry," he apologized sincerely. "Forget it. I need to get him to the pediatrician. He was sick last week. Weren't you sweetie," she cooed, kissing Tucker's temple. "I'll, call you...sometime," she added, using the same intonation that he had that same morning. "Come on, Dana," he grabbed her free arm gently. "I thought we were friends." "Friends, yes. Fuck buddies, no. I invited you into my bed, not because I was desperate to get laid, but because I thought...I don't know what I thought," Dana blinked away tears. "But then again, I am the one who ended up pregnant at my high school graduation. I think my stupidity keeps growing." "Dana, you're not stupid. The way I acted was wrong. I acted like you were an object, and after knowing you for almost two years; I should have known better. I freaked out, and... I'm sorry. I thought I was ready for the bigger responsibility." "Fox, I've never asked Tucker's father for a dime. What makes you think I'd demand anything of you?" "That's the thing. If we got into a relationship, everyone would get attached to one another; including me. Then without meaning to, you might." "Don't worry. It won't happen. Never again," Dana stalked off, leaving him standing there. ~ # ~ "So you just left him there?" Melissa Scully asked, a disbelieving look adorning her face. Tucker squealed for their attention, making both Dana and her sister turn. Tucker ran into Dana's arms, tumbling almost into Melissa as well. Dana patted his behind, trying to calm him down. He looked up at her and smiled. Dana smiled back, pleased that not only was he feeling better, but also that he was settling. "Mama?" "Yes baby?" "Where Dada?" "Honey, Fox isn't your daddy. He used to be a friend of mine, but he's not your daddy." "He thinks Fox is his father?" Melissa asked. "I guess so. I wish he understood." "Danes, tell me about Fox." "Why bother? It was a one-night stand to him. Then he decided he wanted more, and tried to make amends by, by whatever that was today. Forget it Melissa." "Do you want me to talk to him?" "No, I don't. I don't need you fixing my love life for me." "So you love him?" "No, I don't. I thought I did. I thought a lot of things. My naivet got me into something that changed my life, and I refuse to have it happen again." "You used protection last night though, right?" "Absolutely. And it'll never happen again, so there's no worry." "Are you sure?" "Yes." ~ & ~ For nearly a month after that, Fox tried to convince Dana that he was sincere. However, her mind would not change. Eventually, Fox stopped trying and as far as she knew, he'd met someone else. She was even more relieved when Tucker seemed to listen to her, and stopped asking for Fox as his father. Then, after nearly 3 full months of ignoring him on campus, and avoiding him off-campus, Fox showed up at her door. "Hi," he smiled down at the curious child. "You're Tucker, right?" "Yep." "I'm a friend of your mom's. Can I come in?" "Tucker, honey. What has mommy told you about opening the door without her?" Dana admonished, coming into view and swinging Tucker into her arms protectively. She kissed his temple. "Dana," he called her name gently. "Can I please come in?" She regarded him coolly, then nodded, stepping aside to allow him entry. He shut the door behind him, smiling over at the 21 month old in her arms. "What are you doing here?" she asked softly. He decided not to beat around the bush, "I want to take you out. Can I take you out to dinner?" "Why?" she asked plainly. "Because I was a moron. I'm so sorry. Forgive me?" Dana settled Tucker on his feet. "Go get your pjs on, okay? Then we can finish watching TV." Tucker ran off. Once she heard him in his bedroom, she straightened and crossed her arms over her chest. "What do you want from me?" "To do this right. I should have stopped before we ended up in bed. Then I made a mistake; more than one actually." "It was a one-night thing, forget about it." "I really don't want to. I want to make it right." "I don't. Being with you was a mistake. You told me that. I'm not going to make the same mistake again." "Even if..." Fox stopped as Jonathan padded back into the room and wrapped his arms around Dana's thigh. "Can we just start over? Forget that we ever had that one night and start over back at the close friends that we were." "Done," Dana spat, rubbing Tucker's back. "But we'll never go back to being the close friends that we were." "Please Dana. Give me one more chance. Go out to dinner with me. I'm not asking anything more than that." "I'm busy." "When are you free?" "When I die." "Please?" he tried once more. "Fine, I'm free tomorrow night." "Thank you." "If, and only if you promise to leave me the hell alone if I say so." He nodded, reaching out to touch her cheek. He smiled briefly and turned back around, leaving without another word. ~ ! ~ The next night, Dana sat with Tucker, rocking him to sleep before Fox arrived. Melissa sat in the recliner their father had given Dana when she'd first moved in. It had come in handy on nights when Tucker was colicky as an infant. Melissa watched as Tucker's eyelids fluttered shut. Dana looked up and found herself under scrutiny. "I might as well stay home. I know how the night's going to end." "Oh? How is that?" Melissa asked, surprised that her sister still hadn't forgiven, or forgotten about Fox Mulder's dumb ass mistake. "He'll try to get me into bed again, and I'll refuse. He'll get angry, and then he'll forget about me." "He hasn't yet. It's been four months now, you know." Dana bit her lip. Missy was right. The doorbell rang, making Dana jump. Melissa gave her sister a look before opening the door slowly, to reveal a very-nervous looking Fox Mulder. "Come on in," Melissa ushered him inside. He smiled slightly, his gaze landing on Dana. She sat up straighter, shifting her son and carrying him to the nursery. Fox followed her in, and handed her a stuffed white tiger. She looked at it in confusion. "This is for you and Tucker. I figure if I can get him on my side, he can sway you." "I'm almost ready," Dana replied, bending to kiss Tucker's forehead. As an afterthought, she settled the tiger on his chest, and wrapped his arms around it. "He's two, right?" "Almost, yep." "He's gotten big since I last saw him." "Leave him out of this," Dana ordered. Fox nodded, "I'm sorry." Despite her efforts, she found herself enjoying dinner. Either Fox was going out of his way to be charming, or the lies she'd told herself to believe were starting to break down; or both. "Would you like to go for a walk?" he asked, signing the check and stuffing his credit card back in his wallet. "Yeah," she relented. They walked slowly, weaving around the other people on the street, and Dana took the opportunity to slide closer to him. By the end of their walk, Dana's arm had wound up around his waist, and his arm was draped across her shoulders. "I should be getting home. The man of the house might get mad if I stay out much later," she giggled. He sighed in mock-defeat. "Alright. If I have to take you back." She laughed again, touching his chest. He stopped, trapping her hand beneath his. "I am sorry," he murmured. "Sorry that I blew it so badly back in April. I got so damn scared about everything." "Everything being?" "I don't know," he dropped his arms and sat on the bench that was conveniently located behind them. She sat beside him warily. Her hand reached out for his, surprising them both. "I realized I wasn't ready to go from being a friend who flirts and helps you study to being your lover and a potential role model for your son." Dana nodded slowly, "I see. What have you decided now?" "That I'm going to stalk you until you take me back," he grinned, leaning in to catch her eyes. "I want to be in your life in every way. It scared me the first time Jonathan referred to be as his daddy. I don't know if I'm ready for that, but I do know that I'd like to be his friend. Will you let me be?" Dana held his gaze. Part of her wanted to believe him, but the other part knew it had to be a lie. He hadn't wanted her then, he couldn't want her now. "Come on, I'll take you home. Then I'll get out of your way," he stood, mistaking her silence for complete rejection. Dana took his hand. She smiled slowly, willing him to know that she was taking what he said seriously. He sat back down, and squeezed her hand gently. "I was hurt," she started. "Very hurt. You were only my second lover, and you walked out on me. After what he did, how he used me, it hurt more than you'd know. You don't know how it felt to know that he'd taken advantage of my trust, to find out that that I was going to have that asshole's baby; to know that I couldn't give it up. That I'd be responsible for another life for the rest of my own. You don't know how angry my parents were. You don't know how angry I was, how angry I stayed until the very moment I held my Jonathan Tucker in my arms," Dana stopped. "I'm so sorry," he apologized again. She wiped her eyes gently. He asked permission with his eyes, and when she granted it, he stooped and kissed her softly, taking nothing, but offering everything. ~ ^ ~ Dana awoke to feel Fox's nose nuzzling at her hair. His arm tightened around her, pulling her closer to his body. Who would have thought that he was a cuddler? She smiled her amusement into his chest at the made up word. This was a much better wake up than the last time. Of course the fact that they hadn't had sex might have something to do with it. "Morning," he whispered into her hair. Gentle fingers combing through the red strands punctuated his words. "Mmm, good morning," she murmured back. "Never would have pegged you as the cuddle and pillow talk type." "It wasn't top on my list of priorities." "Now it's on there?" He nodded. "Why?" she asked plainly. "Because when I got home, and I realized how much I'd hurt you, and how much I was hurting; I... I knew that I wanted more, and you needed more; but face it. I'm not the best at romance. I'm much better at the flirt and run away technique." "Neither am I, at the romance angle," Dana sighed, tilting her head slightly. "I learned my lesson with Tucker's father. I mean, I'm not ideal. I'm twenty years old, I have a two year old son, and I'm having to balance college, a career, and being a mommy. Not to mention that my figure was ruined before it even began. No man wants to raise the child of a union of another man." "I do, because I know that there was no union. You had your trust, and your body betrayed. Your son deserves love, no matter how he came to be. He didn't ask to be born." "You sound like you speak from experience." "My parents, well, let's just say when they had me, they weren't quite ready for a child. In fact the tiger I gave him was mine. My dad bought it the day I was born. I wanted him to have it." Dana reached up and stroked his cheek. "Are you being yourself at this exact moment?" "Nobody else." "That's the man I want," she whispered. He nodded, bending to kiss her softly. She responded lightly, not deepening the kiss, but not breaking it either. They jumped apart when they heard a thump from the next room. "Is he okay?" "Yeah. Last week he discovered a way to springboard himself from the crib to the bed, and down to the floor. He'll be in here in a few minutes. Which reminds me, would you mind, um . . . I just want to be able to explain everything to him." "Okay. No problem. You mind if I shower?" he asked. He'd brought his overnight bag inside with him last night. "Go ahead," Dana kissed him lightly. He slid from her bed, and she followed his boxer-clad ass as he walked into her bathroom. Dana leaned back against the pillows, finding herself surrounded by his scent. She closed her eyes slowly, and when she opened them, Tucker's green ones were gazing up at her from her bedside. He lifted his arms and she tugged him onto her lap. She smiled, seeing the stuffed tiger he clutched. "Good morning, baby," she kissed his nose and cuddled him close. "Hi mommy." "Sleep well? You were sound asleep when we got home," she curled around him and tickled his sides. He climbed farther into her arms and she kissed his forehead. "Where you go?" he asked. "Mommy and her friend, Fox went out to dinner. Next time, we'll bring you." "Okay." "Honey," Dana stroked his back. "I know it's just been you and me for a long time, but do you think you'd like to have someone else around too?" He shrugged. Dana smiled. "Okay, we'll see how it works out." Tucker shifted uncomfortably. "Gotta go potty." "Alright, come on," Dana lifted him up and carried him into the steamy bathroom. The shower was still running and so she shushed him. "Who's dere?" Tucker whispered. "That's Fox," Dana murmured. "He's taking a bath, so we need to be quick when you use the potty." Tucker nodded, tugging at his flannel pjs. Dana helped him use the toilet, and washed his hands, allowing him to lead her from the room. "All clear," she called, closing the door. Fox opened the door to let her know that he was done. She smiled at him over Tucker's head. Tucker changed the channel on the TV, giggling at her indignant reaction. "I used your shampoo, because I couldn't find anything else." "That's okay. Let me smell," she beckoned him close to sniff delicately at his hair. "Nice," she remarked. "Do you have a razor?" he asked, brushing his stubble over her cheek. "Under the sink. Get a fresh one, I don't want you to cut yourself." "Okay. Shaving cream?" "It's there." Fox nodded, leaving her side and returning to the bathroom. Looking back, he saw Dana explaining his presence once more to Tucker. After a few minutes, the two of them appeared in the doorway. "Tucker has something he'd like to say, Fox," she smiled slightly, placing the boy up on the counter. He smiled bashfully, and cuddled up beside Dana. "Whatcha wanna tell me buddy?" Fox asked, leaning over to the mirror and scraping the razor down his cheek. Dana clucked her tongue and pushed herself up onto the counter. Tucker whimpered, and she kissed his chin. "Tell Fox what you want to, baby. He won't be mad." Fox finished shaving and washed the remainder of the cream from his face. Dana handed him a towel to dry off, then patted Tucker's bottom. "He's finished now, baby." "It's okay Tucker. You can tell me later," Fox patted his back. Tucker turned and reached out his arms to Fox. Fox lifted him up and looked at the child curiously. "What's up pal?" Tucker looked from him to Dana and back. One of his hands pointed to his mother while the other landed on Fox's now smooth cheek. "Mommy's friend?" He asked finally. "Yeah. I'm mommy's friend," Fox answered smiling over at Dana. She smiled back. "I'm going to start breakfast. Any requests?" "Friends Toes!!!!" Tucker squealed. "What?" Fox asked, laughing. "French toast," Dana explained, watching how Fox interacted with her son. "Oh, cause I thought you wanted me to eat your toes..." Fox grinned, picking up Tucker's foot and playfully nibbling on his big toe. Tucker nearly fell out of Fox's arms; he laughed so hard. "He's very ticklish," Dana warned, turning and leaving the bathroom. Fox and Tucker followed, laughing quietly. They watched Dana as she puttered around the kitchen. She turned, curious to find that both males were watching her. She beckoned them both closer and when she stretched up to kiss Fox, she tickled Jonathan's side. "Take Fox and go watch TV. I'll come get you when your toes are ready." "Your mom's too good to us," Fox whispered, pressing his head to Tucker's hair. He set the baby on his feet and waited until he had left. "After breakfast, I'll get out of your hair for a while to give you some time," he began. "I don't think I need any time. But if you want to take some for yourself, I won't blame you." "And if neither of us want that?" "Then I guess we have something now." "We're together?" "We've already had sex once, how much more together do we need to be?" "I don't know. How much more together do you want to be?" he placed his hands on her hips. She responded by stroking his chest. "Are you sure?" she asked, biting her lip. He nodded. "I love you," he confessed. "I do love you," he whispered, kissing her. Dana closed her eyes and swallowed. "Go watch TV with Jonathan, please." "Okay," he sighed, bending to kiss her softly. "Think about what I said." "I will," Dana whispered, watching him leave the room. A minute later, Missy poked her head inside. "Well, well, well. What's going on in here little sister?" "I don't know," Dana flipped the French toast over before collapsing in a chair. "What happened?" "He told me he loves me." "What's so wrong with that?" "I don't think I can handle it if he's lying." "Do you think he is?" "Jack was." "He's not Jack. He'll never be Jack." "What if he is?" "Dana," Melissa took her face in her hands. "You have to give him a chance to prove to you that he's not the bastard who took advantage of you, and got you pregnant. Hell, he doesn't look a damn thing like Jack. Plus, he loves you. I know he does, Dana." Dana turned away. "I wish," she broke off. "What Dana? You wish what?" "Don't misunderstand me, I love Jonathan more than anyone in the world. But sometimes, I wish this were easier. Nobody accepts me because I have him. Some days I want to be a normal girl, who can join a sorority, and go out and get trashed any damn time I want." "Do you really want that? The uncertainty? With Jonathan you know that he's always going to love you." "TOOOOOOOOOOOOEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!" Tucker squealed, rushing inside just as the buzzer sounded. Dana laughed, plucking him into her arms. "Aunt Missy will get you your toes. Stay here with me." "'Kay," Tucker answered, swinging his legs in between Dana's. "Tucker, after breakfast, Mommy needs to run some errands. Will you stay with Aunt Missy?" "Dana, I have..." Missy protested. "I'll watch him for you," Fox volunteered. "We can watch all sorts of TV. We won't leave the house." "Oh, okay," Dana stuttered, feeding Tucker another bite. ~ ~ ~ When she returned late in the evening, after having spent most of the day thinking about things, she was touched to see Fox and Tucker on the couch, both asleep. Tucker was cuddled into Fox's side, mostly sprawled on Fox's chest, and one of Fox's hands was covering his back, anchoring him and the stuffed tiger. Dana noted how tiny her baby looked against Fox. Smiling slightly, she also noticed the half open pizza box. Crossing over to pick it up, she realized that there were still three pieces. Just enough for her. She smiled, turning the volume on the TV down, shutting off some of the lights, and covering them with a blanket before taking the still-warm pizza into the kitchen. As she was eating, Fox wandered inside, blinking sleepily. He stopped when he saw her. "Good nap?" she asked. "Yeah. I figured we'd probably fall asleep, so I put him into his pajamas before the movie. I just took him to bed." "Thank you. Was he okay?" "Amazingly perfect. I'm going to head out now." "Okay. Call me tomorrow?" "As soon as I get home," he promised. "Or right now?" she asked. "If you want," he stepped closer and dropped to his knees in front of her chair. She reached out to stroke his cheek. "Did you do your thinking?" he asked. "How'd you know?" she replied, surprised that he'd seen through her errands excuse. "I could tell. What did you decide?" "I know I said I'd never ask you for anything, but..." "But what?" "But I love you. Can you give me your love?" He tugged her into his arms. One of his hands stroked her hair while the other held her to him. His lips brushed her hair, then her ear as he whispered, "If there is only one thing I can give you, it's my love." "You promise?" she asked softly. He nodded into her neck. "I promise. I want to make you happy." Dana smiled tearfully. "Missy said you weren't like him." "Like who?" "Like Jack, Tucker's father." "I never want to be like him." "You never will be," Dana answered, sliding away from him. He touched her lips. "I'll see you tomorrow. Get some sleep. Tell Tucker goodnight for me." "If I ask you to stay, will you still be the man you are right now, tomorrow?" "I'll stay. And I'll be the exact same person tomorrow." "Okay," she kissed him softly. "You can have the bathroom first." "Can't wait," he grinned. "I can make you sleep in the nursery," she warned playfully. "I mean for sleep," she assured. "I don't think we're ready for much more than that." "I know," he answered, kissing her forehead. "Thanks," he whispered. The double meaning wasn't lost on her. End of Part 2 Part 3 ~ ~ ~ There is a time for every seed Don't confuse what you want with what will be Wrestle your heart pinned to the floor Is there enough love do you want more ~Seed, Angie Aparo ~ ~ ~ One Month Later Dana straightened Tucker's pumpkin costume and kissed his nose. He smiled, making her kiss him on the nose again. "Okay, now remember. Stay with Fox, hold his hand all the time, and say thank you when you get candy." "But not if you get raisins, or toothbrushes or lame stuff like that. Then you're perfectly within your rights not to say thank you," Fox grinned, interjecting into her speech. Dana shot him a look. "We've got it mom. Ready buddy?" Fox crossed over to them and pulled Tucker up by his armpits. Tucker squealed. "Weady, Fox." "Good, cause your mom and I want candy. Give mom a kiss," Tucker did as instructed. Fox grinned and kissed Dana quickly. She took Tucker's favorite stuffed animal from his hands and shooed them toward the door. Fox was taking Tucker trick-or-treating. "Don't stay out too late. If he gets sleepy, bring him home." "Okay." "Bye baby," Dana kissed Tucker and then Fox again. "Bye, bye Mommy," Tucker waved as Fox carried him and the candy bag that was just as big as the boy out the door. Midway through the third street, a group of older kids scared Tucker, making him drop his candy, which caused him to sob. Fox picked him up, cradling him close. "Don't cry buddy. I'm here, it's okay." Jonathan's arms clutched tighter at his neck. "Daddy," he cried. "I'm here, I've got you," Fox brushed away his tears. He held him close, amazed at how attached to the little boy he'd become in such a short time. Looking up, he saw an older woman lecturing the group of boys. Finally the oldest one, and his mother strode toward them. "Hello," she offered politely. "Hi," he countered, rubbing Tucker's back. "My son has something he'd like to tell yours," she told him, pushing the boy forward. Fox nodded, and crouched on his haunches, turning Tucker on his thigh. Tucker sniffled and Fox kissed his temple. The older boy heaved a sigh and squatted down to Tucker's level. "I'm really sorry I made you cry. My mom told me to give you my candy, and I'll take yours," the kid passed the bag to Fox, who showed the booty to Tucker. Tucker pressed his face into Fox's neck. "Thank you," Fox sighed. "I think we should just head home. My buddy here is still a little upset." The kid actually looked contrite. "I am sorry," he said again. "I didn't mean to scare him that bad." "Come on Tucker, let's go home," Fox pulled himself to his feet and hefted the little boy closer. The woman stopped him, as they were about to turn back toward home. "Tucker, as in Dana Scully's boy?" "Yes Ma'am. I'm Fox Mulder," he reached out to shake her hand. She smiled thinly, her dislike for Dana obvious. "Well, I'd better let you get on your way. Once again, I'm sorry for the inconvenience Andrew caused your... him," hurriedly, she ushered the boys off, as if the sheer mention of Dana was an illness, leaving Fox standing there with Tucker held tightly in his arms. Biting his lip, Fox called out, "Hey!" "Yes?" The woman turned around, her pleasant facade gone. "What do you have against Dana? She's a wonderful woman, and a wonderful mother. She loves Jonathan with all her heart, and yet all she gets is scorn because of it. Everything she's done, even buying a house in this neighborhood so that her son won't grow up in the projects somewhere, shows that she's not some stupid slut who's giving more thought to her own life than her child's. I'm sorry, but I know Dana better than you ever will, and she doesn't deserve to be treated as if the sheer mention of her name will cause the world to come crashing down. She's a good person, she's a good mother," he finished, rubbing Tucker's back in a fatherly manner. Spinning on his heel, Fox left the surprised woman standing there. As they walked, Tucker whimpered into his neck, causing Fox to stop walking. He knelt again. "What's the matter?" Tucker swiped at his eyes and shook his head. "Don't wanna go home yet?" Fox asked. Tucker nodded. "A few more houses?" he asked. Tucker nodded again. "Okay," Fox smiled, brushing his thumbs over the baby-soft cheeks. "Want up?" "Pease," Tucker whispered. Fox brushed his lips over the baby's forehead and picked him up. Slowly, they finished the street, with Fox setting Tucker down on his feet at every house so that the little boy could be the one to ring the doorbell and gleefully call out 'trick or treat'. Eventually Tucker took to leaving Fox at the end of the driveway and returning to him at top speed so that Fox would swing him high into the air. This continued for one additional street before Fox checked his watch and deemed it to be late enough to start on home. Tucker started yawning after five minutes of walking. He didn't even notice when they passed the same group of kids from earlier. As Dana opened the door, Fox smiled softly. Over the course of the night, he'd found himself wishing that Tucker were his son. Tucker was such a lovable child, and no child deserved to be treated as if they weren't wanted. Especially when he was wanted and was loved so much. "We're home," he whispered, trying not to wake the baby. Dana reached up and brushed the pumpkin headpiece off of her son's head. "Get lots of candy?" she asked, taking the bag from him. "Didn't you leave here with a different goody bag?" "Long story. You wanna wake him to use the toilet and get his pjs on?" "I should attempt both, but I know I'll really only accomplish the former instead of the latter," Dana smiled, lifting Tucker down, and carrying him off to the bathroom. After settling Tucker into bed, Dana returned to find Fox sitting on the couch, the TV on the news. She slid into his arms, practically in his lap. He kissed her softly, still a bit confused by the evenings proceedings. She smiled faintly, waiting for him to tell her what was wrong. After thirty minutes of silence, she finally asked. "What happened?" "Some of the older kids from around the neighborhood jumped out of the bushes. They scared him, he dumped his candy, and so one of the kids gave Tucker his," Fox finished, deciding not to tell her about the woman's attitude. Dana always got defensive about people like that, and he didn't really want to sleep on the couch tonight. "That isn't what's bugging you is it?" she asked, knowing there was something else. "Not really. When Tucker was upset, he uh, he call me-" "Daddy?" she supplied. "How'd you know?" "We do talk about you when you're not around," she teased. "One day, I think it was the day you went to terminate your dorm room, he wanted to know when you'd be back. You remember how upset he was when he couldn't go with you?" "Yeah," Fox answered. "Well during one of his tantrums he cried for his daddy. And then he asked if you were coming home." "What did you tell him?" "Yes," she answered simply. "But I made him promise to keep it our secret until you said it was okay." "Is it? I mean, is it okay?" "It is with me. He's been attached to you the moment he met you. Do you see any other men sitting on my couch with their arms around me? But it's your decision, it can be only your decision." Fox nodded, resting his chin on her shoulder. She leaned back farther into his arms and smiled lazily up at him. "Don't think too hard, you might strain something," she warned, giggling. "Very funny," he murmured, sticking his tongue out at her. She proceeded to let him know what she thought of his action; by kissing him gently. They were silent for a few minutes before he took a deep breath. "Can we...I want you to come with me to meet my mom; and maybe my dad too." "Sure. I'd like to meet them too. Do you want to bring Tucker with us?" "Of course. He's your son; you shouldn't need to hide him. I don't want you to feel like you have to hide him," he took a deep breath, "I don't want to hide him." Dana turned in his arms, touching his cheek. "I love you." He kissed her lips softly, "love you too." ~ * ~ Fox had nodded off, his arms going slack around her. She turned and smiled into his chest; feeling one of his hands unintentionally, or maybe not, land on her butt. She took in a deep breath. She felt so secure; so safe. She'd never had that feeling in her three and a half years with Jack. The doorbell echoed through the house, vaulting her from her ruminations. She carefully slid from Fox's embrace and rushed to answer the door, knowing that it couldn't be more trick-or-treaters. Pulling it open, she found herself face to face with Carol Williams. "Hello Dana," Carol smiled politely. "Come in," Dana offered, leading her to the living room, where Fox was snoring lightly. Dana smiled affectionately, and lowered herself into the armchair opposite Carol's. "How can I help you?" "Actually, I'd like to apologize to you about my attitude toward you and your son." Dana nodded, more than a little surprised. Carol had been one of the first women to ostracize her once she'd realized that Dana had been an unwed teenager carrying the baby of her ex-boyfriend. "I misjudged you," Carol continued. "I formed opinions based on assumptions, and I'm very sorry about that." "Well, well thank you," Dana stuttered. "Can I ask, what brought this on?" "He did," Carol pointed. "He talked some sense into me. He made me realize that we're not very different." At seeing her confused look, Carol offered, "My husband is in the service. He's stationed in Kuwait for the majority of the year. When he's gone, I raise my boys on my own. Now I don't know your situation, but for all I know, Jonathan's father could be in the service too. Judging you based on his absence was wrong. I'm very sorry." "Apology accepted." "May I ask, is this Jonathan's father?" "Not his biological father, but Fox has been there for both of us, and so Tucker thinks of him as his father. I'm not going to tell him otherwise. Not when his father is right in this room." Carol nodded, "Alright, well I better get home. Thank you for seeing me." "Thank you for coming by." "Would you like to have lunch sometime?" Carol asked as Dana walked her to the door. "I'd like that, thank you," Dana watched as Carol scrambled down the sidewalk. Shaking her head, she returned to Fox, finding him smiling up at her. She collapsed onto the sofa beside him. He curled an arm around her waist, tugging her back into their former position. "How much did you hear?" "I was awake when you answered the door." "What did you say to her?" Dana asked softly. "Only the truth; that you're a wonderful woman who is doing the best she can." She didn't let him finish; her lips were already attacking his. He kissed her back, holding her head to his and letting his other hand stroke her back and buttocks. When she broke away, he realized she was crying into his neck. He closed his eyes against her hair, running his fingers over her neck. "I love you, so much," she whispered, kissing his neck. "I love you too. That's why I couldn't stand to see her act like you were a slut for having Tucker. And I'll say the same thing to each and every person who doesn't treat you like the wonderful, forgiving person you are. After all, you took me back." Dana smiled against his neck. She nuzzled him gently, kissing his ear. "Her son was the one who scared Tucker, wasn't he?" "Yeah," he murmured, kissing her neck. She met his lips with hers, feeling as if this were their first kiss all over again. Pulling away, she tugged him to his feet. Smiling at her, he lifted her into his arms. "Take me to bed, Fox," she requested shyly. ~ * ~ A month and a half later Two days before Christmas, Dana was helping Tucker and Fox decorate the tree. Fox had lifted Jonathan up onto his shoulders and they were putting the angel on the top when the doorbell rang. Dana cautioned them to be careful and slowly made her way to the door. She opened it slowly, a soft smile adorning her face. The smile faded when she realized who was behind the door. "Jack. How did you find me?" "I went to your parents' house. Nobody would give me your address. So I went to your school, and found it," he stopped, seeing her grimace. "Is this a bad time?" Dana bit her lip. "Not really, come in." She led him into the living room, where Fox and Tucker were putting the finishing touches on the top of the tree. "Mommy look! Can we light it yet?" "Not yet baby. Can you and Daddy go play in your room for a little while? I need to talk to my visitor." "'Kay," Tucker tugged on Fox's hair. "Want down, Daddy." Fox lifted him up, and then swung him off his shoulders. Tucker ran off in the direction of his bedroom. After giving Dana a slow, smoldering kiss, Fox rushed off in his son's direction. "I thought you said you were swearing off men forever." "I just said I was swearing off you, forever," she shot back. "That's your son?" Jack asked, ignoring her jab. "Yes." "How old is he?" Dana hesitated, then answered. "He turned two in late September." Jack's eyes went wide. "He's mine?" "If you count biology as anything, yes. Emotionally though, he'll never be yours." "Why didn't you tell me?" "I felt no need to. You went off to UCLA, and considering the circumstances under which he was conceived, it left no doubt in my mind that you weren't his father." "Dana, I made a poor judgment call, but as a result, I have a son. You knew damn well that I had a right to know." "He's only your son because you were the sperm donor. He's not yours in the law's eyes. Your name isn't documented anywhere, not even on his birth certificate. You're just a set of chromosomes." "What about him? Doesn't he want to know who his real father is?" "Why would he?" Dana asked, crossing her arms over her chest. "Why would he want to know you, the teenaged boy who raped his mother and got her pregnant? Why would he want to have you in his life, when he has his grandparents, his aunts and uncles, and the only man he's ever known, and ever will know, as his father?" "What's his name?" Jack asked. "Jonathan Tucker...Scully." "You're not married to that guy yet?" "We're taking this slowly, I don't want to make the same mistake again." Jack winced, "Why Jonathan?" "It's my brother Charlie's middle name. It has nothing to do with you." Jack dug in his pocket for his wallet. He reached in and pulled out fifty dollars. "Give this to him, tell him who its from. Tell him I'll see him soon." Dana refused, "The hell you will. I don't want your money. Tucker doesn't need your money. I've never asked for anything from you, and I won't. Because I don't want you. Ever. I don't want you in my life, or in my son's." "Dana, come on. Fine, if you don't want to tell him, make something up." "Jack, you haven't spoken to me in over two years. What the fuck are you thinking? That you can come back into town, and I'll just lie back and spread my legs for you while giving you free access to my son?!" "He's my son too." "Like hell he is," Dana and Fox spat in unison. Dana turned and wrapped her arms around his neck. He rubbed her back softly. Comfortingly, Fox leaned into her hair and breathed deeply, all the while glaring at the other man. "Dana, I'm sorry I got angry. Look, I'll just go." "Please do," Fox rumbled. He watched as Jack lowered the money to the end table and left. Fox made a mental note to send the money to someone who needed it. As far as he and Dana were concerned, Tucker didn't need anything more than what he already had. Dana knew that she was shaking, even after Fox's hands made soothing motions on her back. He pulled her closer and tightened his grip on her. "He's gone, Dana. He's gone. He's not going to hurt you again; I'll never let him hurt you or Tucker." Dana looked up at him. He tried to smile, and touched her trembling lips with his thumb. "It's okay," he whispered. "I've got you. I'm right here." "Mommy?" Tucker asked, standing in the doorway, watching his parents together. Dana wiped her eyes and beckoned him into their embrace. Tucker squealed and joined them happily, making Dana hold him tightly. "Can we light it now?" "Yes baby. We can light it now. Daddy, help him light it please." She stood back and watched as the two of them plugged everything into one main extension cord and plugged it all into the wall. Tucker ran back to his mother, reaching for her hand. Dana lifted him into her arms and settled on the couch with him in her lap. "How's it look?" Fox asked. "Come and see." He crossed over to them and tugged them both into an embrace. Dana leaned her head to rest against his neck. "Looks nice. Good job buddy," he held out a hand for a high five from Tucker. Instead, Tucker threw his arms around his daddy's neck. Dana smiled softly, hugging them both too. Later that evening, Dana and Fox lay underneath the tree, kissing softly, leisurely. When they broke apart, Dana smiled, feeling him run gentle fingers over her face. She kissed his fingertips and let her eyes slip open. "I like this, it's nice." "Yeah, it is. Are you okay? I know how much he upset you." "Not great, but we'll be okay. He has no legal rights to Tucker. I never formally acknowledged to anyone but my family that he was the father. His name isn't on Tucker's birth certificate. As far as the people I told were concerned, I'd been raped by an unknown assailant, and I had been too catholic to give up the baby." "What can I do? To assure that he can't go to court?" Dana bit her lip. He knew that she wanted to say something, but was struggling with herself on whether or not to say it. "I don't want to talk about this," she finally decided on. "Okay," he answered, knowing she was holding back. He bent to kiss the worry from her face and she responded in kind, glad that he wasn't angry. They shifted so that Fox was partially on top of her and then parted. "You're beautiful, you know that? You glow." "Those are Christmas lights, Fox." "That'll teach me to give out compliments," he murmured facetiously. She grinned, running a hand over the shell of his ear. "Don't you dare stop," she whispered, tugging him into another kiss. He grinned against her lips and deepened the kiss. She felt his hands run under her shirt, pressing her torso closer to his. She smiled, tangling her fingers in his hair and arching against him. After minutes that felt like hours, she broke away. "Fox," she whispered. "Mmhmm?" "Thank you," she answered, kissing him again. He shook his head as he unbuttoned her shirt. "Don't thank me, we're in this together from now on," he kissed her shoulder. "Together," she echoed thoughtfully. ~ ~ ~ The next evening, Dana watched as Fox tried to coax their unwilling son into wearing his church clothes. They were going to Dana's parents' house for "small" supper and then her family was going to Christmas Eve mass. Currently, however, the issue was convincing Tucker to wear the clothes that Dana requested. "Come on, Tucker," Fox cajoled. "Daddy's wearing his good clothes. Mommy's wearing her pretty dress. You'll be the only one not dressed up to see grandma, grandpa and all of your aunts and uncles." "No," Tucker refused again. Fox looked to Dana for guidance. She settled on the couch and held out her arms. Fox picked Tucker up and passed him to his mother. Dana kissed Tucker's cheeks gently. "Now," she whispered, holding Tucker tightly. Fox nodded and quickly grabbed the clothes to change Tucker. Tucker fought the entire way. An hour late, Dana and her crew arrived at her parents' house. She smiled comfortingly at Fox, whose nervousness was showing as he held Tucker like a shield. He'd met most of her family individually, but the thought of them all together was like standing in front of an armed chimpanzee. "Calm down. Nobody is going to murder you because you've been living with us. They may start harassing you about when you're going to make an honest woman out of me, but no murder. I promise," Dana leaned over and tilted her head up for a kiss. They broke apart abruptly when the door swung open. "My, my, my Dana. Come in," the woman dragged Dana inside. Fox followed wearily, shifting the grumpy child in his arms. "Aunt Lynn," Dana smiled, hugging the older woman. "Aunt Lynn, this is Tucker. You probably don't remember him from the last time you saw him," Dana touched Tucker's leg, smiling. "And this is Fox Mulder, the person you told me I'd find one day." Fox looked at Dana in surprise. She squeezed his fingers, which had somehow laced with hers. "Well, it certainly is nice to meet you, Fox. Maggie hasn't told me that much about you and Dana. Why don't you tell me?" Fox looked at Dana, needing help. She smiled softly and held out her arms to Tucker. Once Fox was free of carrying the baby, she took his coat, her own, and even Tucker's and hung them up. She looked back to find her Aunt Lynn leading Fox away by the arm, telling him emphatically, "Don't worry, I'm the nice aunt." Dana blew Fox a kiss to try to curb his "deer in the headlights" look. Smiling slightly, she went in search of her mother and father. She found them in the study, talking to her Uncle Connor. "Dana, you made it," her mother sighed in relief, holding out an arm to draw her into an embrace. Dana kissed her mother's cheek hello. "Your mother was worrying," her father smirked slightly, reaching over to kiss her cheek. He took his grandson from her and kissed Tucker's head. Tucker squirmed and pouted. "What's wrong, Angel?" Maggie asked. She reached up to stroke the boy's cheek. He grunted and turned away. "We woke him up from his nap, and then he didn't want to get dressed in his good clothes," Dana explained. "I never believed you until now about the terrible twos." "You and Fox seem to be handling it fine though. Where is he?" "He's been kidnapped by Aunt Lynn." "Need a rescuer?" Aunt Lynn's husband asked. "No, he'll be okay," Dana grinned. "I'll pay for it later, but he'll be fine." "Grampa? "M hungry," Tucker murmured, sliding his thumb into his mouth. "Let's go get you some snacks then," Captain Scully smiled, walking out of the room. "Don't let him spoil his dinner, Dad!" Dana called. Her father flashed her a grin and she added, "I mean that!" Maggie laughed, squeezing Dana again before releasing her. "I should probably go make sure your father and my insane sisters don't completely destroy my kitchen. Walk with me?" "Sure. Maybe I can find my insane siblings," Dana grinned. "Bill and Melissa went out to buy more eggnog. Charles is next door for now." "Oh, okay," Dana sighed. Maggie patted her back and pointed. Dana stuck her head into the living room, and saw Fox sitting with Aunt Lynn, and Dana's cousin Lisa. Lisa was doing her best to flirt with Fox. Dana wondered where the usual jealousy she felt when Lisa flirted with her male friends and boyfriends had gone. "Hey Lis," Dana interrupted, crossing over to sit on the arm of the couch. Fox slipped an arm around her waist and she rested her left arm around his neck in a gentle, yet possessive manner. "How are you?" "Where's the baby?" Lisa asked, obviously not liking the fact that Dana had interrupted her flirtations. "Ahab took him to get a snack. He's still cranky," Dana added, squeezing Fox quickly. "He gets it from you," she teased so only he could hear, kissing him quickly. He smiled gratefully. "So you two, do we hear plans for wedding bells?" Aunt Lynn asked. Dana blushed slightly. "Nothing's official. We're trying to take it slow," Dana answered, stroking Fox's ear absentmindedly. He turned and kissed her palm. During dinner, Fox sat between Tucker and Dana's father, who was at the head of the table. Dana was on Tucker's other side, and together the two of them helped assure that most of Tucker's food went in his mouth, and not on his clothes. "Daddy look!" Tucker shoved a slice of turkey under his nose. Fox heard pretty much every fork at the table drop. He ducked when he was sure that every eye was fixed on the three of them. Dana hadn't told anyone but her sister and her mother that he was Tucker's father? Fox looked up to meet Dana's eyes, and took a deep breath. "That's some good turkey, son. Here, open the hatch," Fox made plane noises and fed the slice of turkey to Tucker. Running an affectionate hand over Tucker's head, Fox went back to eating. After dinner, Fox volunteered to do the dishes while the rest of the family opened presents. He washed alone and in silence for nearly ten minutes before Dana sent Tucker in to get him. "Daadddeeee!!!" Fox dried his hands on a dishtowel and swung his son up into his arms. "What's up buddy?" "Come open presents Daddy." "Daddy's washing dishes, son." "No. Presents." "Okay, go ask grandma if she minds me leaving her kitchen a mess." "No Daddy, now." "Now?" he asked, grinning at the forcefulness. Tucker nodded vigorously. "Okay, okay. Let's go, I'll finish before we leave." He set Jonathan down and allowed his son to lead him from the room. Jonathan settled in Dana's lap and tugged Fox down beside them. Fox draped his arm around Dana and dropped a light kiss on her cheek. "Presents!" Tucker squealed. The adults chuckled. "Here you go, Angel. This is from Grampa and me," Maggie handed Fox a large box, and he settled it in front of Tucker. The baby eagerly tore into the wrapping paper. Everyone else began exchanging gifts, while Dana and Fox helped their son unwrap his presents. "Dana, Fox, these are yours," Maggie handed a small stack of gifts to the couple. Dana lifted Jonathan from her lap and took the stack from her mother. She and Fox worked through the gifts, finding everything from bath gels for Dana, to shirts and books for Fox. Then they got to the last box. Dana opened it slowly; and found herself staring at a beautiful lavender sundress. Pressed neatly into the corner were two vouchers to Cancun, including hotels and airfare. "That's from us," William Scully smiled, looking at his wife. "Your mother considers it your honeymoon for when you get married." "Thank you mom, dad," Dana blushed bright red. "Yes, thank you," Fox echoed. Dana scooted back in between his legs and dragged his arms around her. The couple relaxed visibly when conversation went on around them. Pressing a kiss to Dana's temple, Fox tangled their fingers together and rested his cheek on her hair. "Look Mommy! Look Daddy!" Tucker stepped beside his parents and presented his new construction toys to them. Fox opened his arms to him, and Tucker joined the embrace. He snuggled in close with his parents and looked up at his father. "Daddy, did you get presents?" Fox pressed his lips to Tucker's forehead, knowing that at least one of Dana's family members was watching. "Yeah, I got presents son. I got you." ~ @ ~ As they walked to the car to go to church, Dana slid into Fox's side and wrapped her arms around him. "You weren't kidding about the harassment." "Yeah, but not even my over-protective big brother beat you up," Dana giggled, leaning up to kiss him. "My dad likes you." "I'm glad. I like him too. Charlie's interesting," Fox grinned, referring to her fifteen-year old brother and his pierced eyebrows, ears, lip, nose and tongue. "He's got tattoos, too. Not too many, but enough." "What about you? Got any pierced parts or tats I should know about?" "You've seen everything there is. But, before I got pregnant, I had my belly button pierced. I had to let it close up while I was pregnant. I've been thinking about getting it redone, but I don't think I will." "Why not?" "I don't think I want to have to let it close up when I have more children, and it just doesn't go with my image anymore. Pierced teenager was one thing, but now I'm 'undergrad mommy,' and women like Carol Williams haven't helped me be seen as anything but a stupid whore. I don't want to add more fuel to the fire." "That makes sense," Fox kissed her quickly. "I've never thought of you as anything but the woman who I love." "I love you too," she whispered. "Mommy! Mommy! I go with Gramma and Grampa, 'kay?" "Okay, sweetie. We'll see you at church then," Dana bent and kissed Tucker's head. Fox rubbed his hand over the boy's back. "Bye sweetie." Dana took Fox's hand, and they finished walking to the car. When they were settled, Dana reached over, pulling him into a kiss. He responded slowly, holding onto her hand and stroking her cheek as their lips clashed. When they broke apart, Dana lowered her eyes. "What?" Fox asked, raising her chin to his eye level. "I want to make you Tucker's legal guardian," she whispered. "No," Fox refused, whispering back. "No? Why?" "Because I want to adopt him. I want him to be my son in everyone's eyes." "Fox, he already is your son. Everyone already thinks of him as yours." "Do you?" "I think I always have. I certainly always wanted him to be yours." "I love you." "I love you too," she whispered, kissing his lips again before the honk of her sister's car startled them apart. Fox grinned and started to drive. As they followed Dana's parents to Church, Fox stroked her thumb over Dana's knuckles. "Dana?" "Yes Fox?" "Marry me?" End of Part 3 Part 4 ~ ~ ~ Is there enough love do you want more Say my prayers I shaved my head I was looking for reasons to drag my ass out of bed Selfish world Selfish me But the politics of this girl will never set us free I wrote this song for the bounty of life Don't second guess what nature has in mind Sometimes I wonder... ~Seed, Angie Aparo ~ ~ ~ By the time church ended, it was extremely late. Maggie offered to let them stay the night. Finally they agreed, and Dana shared her old bedroom with Melissa while Tucker and Fox slept in the nursery with one of Dana's uncles. "Not the Christmas Eve night I was hoping for," Fox whispered into her hair as she silently fixed Tucker's blankets. "I know, but we can't drive home if you're tired like I know you are. My mom promised to get me up early enough to get home in time to have Tucker wake up with all of his presents from us and Santa. "I know, and I know we're safer getting some sleep, but..." "But what?" she asked, interlocking her fingers behind his head. She looked over to the other occupants of the room before kissing him softly. "I have some presents for you that are appropriate for neither your family, nor our son to see. And I do happen to have an engagement ring for you hidden at home." "Ahhh, so it wasn't a spur of the moment proposal." "Well it wasn't a spur of the moment answer," he hinted. "You'll get an answer soon," she promised. "I should go before Missy locks me out." "Okay. Get some rest." "You too," she answered, kissing the corner of his mouth. "Love you." "Love you too. Night," he kissed her forehead. She smiled and turned back to Tucker, making sure he was contentedly holding onto his tiger. "Goodnight," she whispered, leaving the room. She was out like a light the moment her head hit the pillow. She slept all night, and the next thing she knew, Fox was leaning over her, running his index finger over her cheeks. "Fox? What time is it?" "Late enough. Everyone's already waiting for you. So wakey-wakey." "But, but," she sat up, looking for her clothes. Instead she found him holding her mother's silk robe that had been passed down to her from when her dad was stationed in Hong Kong. "Your dad went and got everything at around 5 this morning. Tucker's almost ready to pop, he's so excited. Come on." "Dad got everything?" she asked, letting him drape the robe over her shoulders. "Including the inappropriate ones?" "Yeah, but I swiped them from under the tree, they're right here," he grinned, showing her the brightly wrapped gifts. "Your other present is downstairs." "Fox, please-" she began. "What?" "I want this to be for us, not for what my family has been not so subtly hinting at. Not because of what Jack said either." "So we'll wait for a little while to show that it's not a spur of the moment thing." "Fox, stop. I can't." "Why not?" he pressed. "I just, I can't. Not now, maybe not ever." "Okay," he backed away, hurt. "I'll let you get dressed, and your son and I will be waiting," he replied formally, stressing Tucker's parentage. He stood and left the room, leaving her there with unshed tears in her eyes. As she descended the stairs, she had to plaster a smile on her face when she saw Fox sitting with Tucker and Aunt Lynn. Dana slowly crossed to Fox's side and stroked Tucker's hair. "Mommy, look! Santa found us at Gramma and Grampa's!" "Wow, honey. Did you go peek at what you got?" Tucker shook his head solemnly, "Daddy said to wait for you." "Well then, let's go open your presents," she held out a hand, which Tucker eagerly grabbed. She laughed as he tugged her to the large stack of gifts, both wrapped and unwrapped. Tucker looked back at Fox and held out his free hand to his father. Fox smiled, but shook his head. "Mommy can help you Tucker. I'm talking to your aunt." Tucker pouted and pulled away from Dana to crawl into his father's lap again. He took hold of Fox's t-shirt and held tightly, seemingly aware of the upset between his parents. Fox pushed his hurt away and held the little boy tightly for a moment before looking up at Dana. "Okay," she sighed, "since Tucker doesn't want his presents, I guess I can give them to another little boy who does," she teased, expecting Tucker to do exactly what he did. He jumped from the couch and rushed over to the presents. He hugged the closest gift tightly. "Please mommy, don't give away my presents!" "Then you gotta open them. Daddy's watching from the couch," she lowered herself to the floor and tugged Tucker into her lap. Together the two of them tore into the presents. After a few minutes, Lynn shoved Fox down to join the two of them, making Tucker's smile a little brighter. Fox reached for one of Dana's hands and kissed her fingers. She smiled softly over at him and gave him a little nod, letting him know that they'd talk. Tucker squealed, playing with his newest present. Fox smiled and ruffled his son's hair. Tucker giggled, running off to show his aunts and uncles what he'd gotten. Dana turned to Fox, "So... where's mine?" ~ ~ ~ That evening Yawning, Dana dried her hands on a dishtowel and swept her gaze across the kitchen. "Why don't you go to bed, Dana? The kitchen's spotless, dear," her mother appeared in the doorway. "I'm done mom. I'll go to bed in a little while, Fox and I have to talk." "Well, since everyone else has already left, your dad and I are going to head home. He just took Tucker to bed for you." "Thanks. I'm surprised he went down so easily. It's usually a hell of a lot bigger a fight. Not to mention it's Christmas," Dana hugged her mom tightly. "Honey, are you alright?" "Mom, I," Dana lowered her voice. "He proposed, Mom. He wants us to get married." "That's wonderful sweetheart, but where's the ring he mentioned?" "I said, well I didn't say no, but I told him I couldn't." "Oh sweetheart, why not? You love him dearly, he loves you too. Your son adores him, and we know that you both are happy with everything. Even your father likes him. What's wrong with marrying Fox?" "What's wrong with it? Besides the fact that no priest will marry us? Besides the fact that I'm a 'tarnished' woman? Besides the fact that I'm so damn scared that he'll change his mind and realize that all of this is a huge mistake?" "Dana, why in God's name would he change his mind?" Dana sat down heavily. "I never told you that when we first began dating, Fox and I, he didn't want something serious. We uh, we went too far one night, and it scared him. He left the next morning, barely saying a word." "Oh, Dana, but you, I don't understand." "A few months later, I wanted to be with him so badly, that I let him have another chance." "And has he given you any indication that he's reluctant to go further in your relationship since then?" "No." "So why so scared?" Maggie asked, stroking her hair gently. "I don't know," Dana whispered, tearing up. Maggie continued stroking her hair. "Does he make you happy?" "Yes." "Do you make him happy?" "I think I do." "And it goes without saying that Jonathan loves Fox. All I heard about since dinner last night was how amazing he was; to accept your son and love him even more than some parents love their own children. Since everyone in this equation is happy and loved, I want you to marry him, sweetheart. I never approved of Jack, but I let your relationship go its course. Even as hurtful a course as it took. I'm not going to lie to you; I wish that you'd found Fox sooner. I wish you'd waited to give away that part of yourself. Even if it meant that my darling grandson was never conceived; I wish you'd found the man you're with sooner. Then Jonathan would have been conceived out of love." "He was conceived out of love, even though I didn't know his father yet," Dana whispered, wiping her eyes. "What about a priest and a church?" "If that's your worry, let me handle the arrangements." Dana sniffed, "Are you sure?" "Yes, honey. I'm sure I want you to marry the man who makes you happy," Maggie smiled, "And although I've always wanted a large Catholic wedding for you, if it doesn't work out, I won't be close minded to other options. I'll find a church, or a judge who will work out." Dana smiled into her mother's shoulder. "Tell the man you love that you'll marry him, Dana. Tell him you love him and that you'll spend the rest of your life with him," Maggie whispered, kissing her forehead. ~ ~ ~ By the time Dana garnered enough courage to approach Fox, he was already in bed reading. She tapped the cover of his book, smiling widely at him as he looked up. "Whatcha reading?" "The book your mom bought me. It's really good. Tucker still sleeping?" he asked, marking his page. She took the book from him, and perched at his side. His hand reached out to brush her cheek. "Dinner was great, Dana." "Better than Mom's last night?" she teased, reminding him of all the flattery he'd bestowed upon her mother the night before. "Well, maybe not that good," he teased back, pulling her into a loose hug. She laughed quietly, squirming in his arms so that she could shed her pantyhose and skirt. He helpfully smoothed his dress shirt that she'd worn down to where it ended at her upper thigh. "Don't be angry, please Fox?" she asked, looking up at his still upset eyes. "How can I not be? You want to be with me, but not enough to get married. You want to have Jonathan grow up with me as his father, but I can't give him my name if we don't get married. I just don't understand why you're the reluctant one when it comes to commitment." "I'm sorry," she murmured, losing her nerve as she pulled away and grabbed her pajamas. He looked at her curiously. "Are you afraid of me, Dana?" "Of course not," she protested, tugging her pajama pants up and buttoning her top. She crossed to the other side of the bed and crawled in. Fox turned onto his side and found himself facing her back. Scooting a little closer, he bent and pressed his lips to her shoulder blades. He did the same again and again as if his sheer will could convince her. "I love you," she whispered, sounding as if she were begging him to believe her. He took that as an invitation to spoon up behind her, nestling his pelvis into the curve of her behind, and winding his arm tightly around her abdomen, right underneath her breasts. "I love you too," he answered, closing his eyes and letting sleep find him. Dana waited until he was snuffling softly in her ear before taking his hand and kissing it. "I don't want to take more away from you than I already have. I don't want you to hate me for taking your freedom away from you. It's my Christmas gift to you; because I love you so much, so fucking much," she whispered, her voice cracking with emotion. ~ ~ ~ One month later Dana had just gotten home from work when an official courier approached the door. "May I help you?" she asked politely. "Dana Scully?" "Yes?" "Sign," a clipboard was thrust at her. She took it warily and signed, sending the harried delivery guy on his way. Tucking the legal envelope underneath her arm, she closed the door and started on her daily activities. It wasn't until after she'd cleaned the kitchen, straightened the master bedroom, and Tucker's room, and the phone rang, with her mother and her sweet, but annoying determination to fix the riff between Dana and Fox, that she sat down and opened the envelope. That was where her son and her lover found her. Tucker had gone with Fox to his classes, and afterwards the two went to the park to play basketball. Dana hurriedly shoved the papers back into the envelope and opened her arms to receive an enthusiastic Tucker. She held him tightly, stroking her fingers through his unruly curls. "Did you and Daddy have fun sweetie?" she whispered, kissing his forehead and his nose. Tucker nodded, making her smile up at Fox. He grinned and bent to kiss her. "Everyone loved him during the lectures. He kept asking me questions, and then when he got bored, he just curled up in my lap and went to sleep," Fox ruffled the child's hair. Dana chuckled, taking Fox's hand. He squeezed it gently before turning his gaze to the folder seated between them. "What's this?" "I got it today when I got home. Jack had it delivered," Dana answered. Fox took the papers one handedly and paged through them, feeling his ire rising. "Tucker, can me and mommy talk by ourselves for a few minutes?" he asked, not willing to have Tucker hear what he was about to say. Dana kissed her baby's temple and watched as he ran to the playroom. "He's suing for custody. Full custody," Dana murmured. Fox threw the papers down. "Bullshit. He's not going to take our son away." "He's saying I'm unfit...we're unfit to raise Jonathan." Fox took a deep breath, "Let me call your Dad, he'll know a good lawyer to end this before it even begins," Fox squeezed her hand and pulled away. Dana caught his arm and stood, letting him pull her into an embrace. "Remember what I said?" he murmured into her hair. "I won't let him hurt you, or our little boy. Okay? Trust me. He won't win." Dana tightened her arms around him, knowing that with that admission, he wouldn't leave her if she gave him her hand for life. "Fox, you were right. I want... I'm sorry," she stumbled, not knowing how to approach the subject. "Don't be sorry, Dana. You're doing everything you know how to do. And from everything I've seen, you're doing amazing." "No, I...I'm" "You're stuttering," he replied, shocked at her nervousness. "I want to get married," she blurted, "I do, and I know that you were hurt when I refused without giving an explanation, but I didn't mean..." he stopped her steady stream of babbling by placing a finger on her lips. "Dana, I want you to calm down. I know that everything you're trying to say, even what I couldn't understand was true. I know you're scared that there might be something to Jack's attempt, but I need you to stay calm." Dana took a deep breath, and took his face between her palms. "Fox, marry me?" she whispered. "What?!" "That's what I was trying to say. I do want to get married. I love you. Please, marry me?" "Did you just propose?" he asked softly. She nodded, wiping her eyes. He broke into a grin and picked her up by the waist, swinging her around. "Is that a yes?" she asked. He kissed her tenderly, letting that be his answer. "Mommy? Daddy? I want hug too!" Dana kissed Fox softly once more before reaching out to Tucker. Tucker rushed over to them, trying to wrap his short arms around both his parents at once. They smiled softly at each other before dropping down to hold their son tightly. ~ @ ~ Two days later, Dana straightened her skirt and looked over at Fox to see if he was as edgy as she was. Judging by the continuous twitch of his eyebrow, he was more nervous than her. She reached out for his hand and brought it to her lips. He smiled anxiously at her. His thumb brushed over her engagement ring; a beautiful diamond solitaire that she couldn't convince him to tell her how many years it had set him back. They were waiting for their lawyer to come out of a meeting with Jack's lawyer. They'd set up the meeting as a measure that would hopefully keep this from going to court. They wanted to keep Tucker from knowing as long as they could. As far as Dana was concerned, Tucker would never know that Jack had decided to try and rip him away from his parents. The door opened and their lawyer, a longtime friend of Captain William Scully's smiled tightly at them. They stood and Dana's hand tightened on Fox's. "Well?" Fox asked. "Well, I'm sorry to say that this hasn't ended here. I want you both to give me a deposition today, so that the next available judge can begin handling the case." "There shouldn't need to be a case. Jonathan is our son, not Jack's." "Well biology says that he is," a snide voice interrupted. Dana turned and stepped close as if to hit Jack, but Fox managed to restrain her. It didn't stop her from nearly spitting in Jack's face. "Using that ignorant method of thought, convicted rapists and sex offenders who father children would have the right to gain custody," she spat. Fox tugged her away, preferring to let their lawyer deal with him. "Don't give him what he wants. If you get angry, he can use it against us," he whispered. She relaxed slightly, knowing that he was right. ~ ~ ~ After giving their depositions, Dana allowed Fox to lead her from the room, where she spied Tucker sitting between both of her parents. When he saw her, he jumped up and ran happily over to his mother. "Me missed you mommy!" "I missed you too baby, missed you tons," she murmured, relishing the feel of his small, yet strong arms around her neck. "Missed Daddy too," Tucker added, turning some of his affection to Fox. Fox hugged his son back, before reaching out to shake Dana's father's hand. "How did it go?" Maggie asked, giving Fox a small hug. He shook his head, showing that it hadn't gone well. He guided them toward the exit of the courthouse, guiding Dana and his son out the door. Later on, Dana sat on the couch, still cradling Tucker tightly. The evening had passed with very little conversation; Dana was still too upset to say much to anyone but her son. Fox closed the door behind Maggie Scully, and crossed over to kneel in front of Dana. "Let me put him to bed," he offered, indicating the sleeping toddler in her arms. Dana shook her head. "I want to hold onto him for a little while longer." "Dana, nobody is going to snatch him from his bed. Let's put him in our room, and he can sleep with us tonight." "He can stay with us?" Fox smiled and nodded. "I'll put him down, and then we can do some homework that I know you've been ignoring." "Okay," Dana relented, handing Tucker to Fox. She kissed both of the men in her life and smiled slightly. "I'll be right back, just stay there." Fox ordered softly. "Won't move a muscle." When he came back into the living room, she really hadn't moved. He pulled her into his arms, tugging her half into his lap. Distractedly, she pressed a kiss into his neck. "He's not going to win, Dana. He'd be a single father, and a stranger to Tucker. No court would choose to give him custody when Tucker has two parents and a loving, complete home. Our lawyer knows what she's doing." "I wish I did." "You do. You're doing exactly what every mother would when faced with this. You're protecting your son. I don't want him to be in the middle of this, and I'm going to do everything I can to keep Jack away from him." "What would I do if?" "Don't even think about it. It'll never happen. Come on, go get your books, I'm not going to let you fail a class because of this. That would be exactly what he wants." Dana reluctantly slid from his lap and found her backpack buried underneath some of Tucker's clothes. She returned and he pulled her back into his arms. Slowly, she opened the book, willing her nerves to calm. After an hour of studying, Fox closed the book, placed it to the side, and smiled into Dana's hair. She'd fallen asleep ten minutes ago, still clutching her pen. He took the instrument from her hand and settled it on top of the book before carrying her to bed. He went around the house, locking up and dressing himself for sleep, before changing Dana's clothes as well. ~ @ ~ Fox woke up the next morning to find Dana holding Tucker down at the foot of the bed. They were giggling about something that had just transpired on TV. "Shh, don't wake Daddy," she warned. "Too late," he rumbled, making them both jump. Tucker flipped over and scrambled up to greet his father with a small kiss. "Morning Daddy!" Fox kissed Tucker's forehead. "Morning buddy." Dana joined them and leaned in to give Fox a good morning kiss. "You have morning breath," she whispered, grinning. "Yeah, yeah, don't kiss me then," he grumbled, playfully turning away. Dana took hold of his chin and tugged his face back to hers. She smiled and kissed him lazily. Tucker's hair brushed her chin and she broke away from Fox. "Hey baby," she smiled down at Tucker, ducking her head to kiss his nose lightly. He giggled, obviously having gotten what he wanted. "You're in a good mood," he remarked, brushing her hair back with his hand. She kissed his palm before speaking. "The judge ordered a social worker to do evaluations on us and Jack." "That is good news. When?" "Jack's evaluation is going on right now," Dana grinned. "The term 'not a morning person' doesn't even begin to describe Jack." Fox laughed, "When's ours?" "As soon as she finishes there. Which should be about ten minutes after it started." "I should get dressed then." "We all should," Dana agreed, staying right where she was. "I'll even get rid of my morning breath," he grinned, kissing her once before sliding from bed. ~ ~ ~ Fox and Tucker were watching TV while Dana did some paperwork that she'd been neglecting, when the social worker arrived. Dana and Fox looked at each other before Dana finally relented and answered the door. "Dana Scully?" the tall brunette asked. "Yes." "We spoke on the phone. I'm Marcia Thom. I'm here to observe." "Please come in," Dana ushered her inside. Fox had already explained to Tucker that they'd be getting a visitor, and so he ran over to Dana, hugging her waist tightly and waving to the new person. Marcia squatted. "Hi, Jonathan." "My name is Tucker," he answered, making Dana smile and stroke his hair. "We call him Tucker because Jonathan sounds so formal," Dana explained just as Fox appeared at her side. He picked Tucker up and reached out to shake Marcia's hand. "You're Fox Mulder?" "Yes Ma'am," he answered, holding Tucker tightly. Tucker wrapped his arms around his father's neck and settled his head on his shoulder. "Daddy," he murmured. "Yeah buddy?" Fox answered automatically. Tucker shook his head. "Jus' Daddy." He answered. Fox smiled. "Let's go finish watching cartoons," he remarked rhetorically. Tucker nodded anyway. Both women watched them go. "To start off, I need to ask both you and your-" "Fianc," Dana supplied. "Fianc," Marcia agreed, "some questions." "Can it be done in private, please? Tucker is only two and won't understand what it means that Fox isn't his biological father. He's never met Jack, and for as long as he's been alive, Fox is the only father he's known." "That's fine. I'll speak with you first then." "This way," Dana led her into the kitchen. The two women sat down at the kitchen table. "Alright, since this is Saturday, neither of you are working, I assume?" "That's correct." "What do you do?" "I'm an assistant in the chief neurosciences lab on campus." "And your income?" "A little under $90,000 a year, mostly. Plus I have help from my parents, and then there's Fox's salary, of course." "Do you feel like its sufficient?" "It has been tight sometimes, but I've never had a utility get cutoff, nor has there ever not been a meal on the table. Tucker's always had clothes, shoes, a roof over his head, and a place to sleep," Dana added. "I assume that you and your fianc live together?" "We have for quite a while. Fox used to have a dorm room where he could go if needed, he gave it up last September after he'd moved everything of his in here," Dana smiled, remembering the move fondly. Marcia nodded. "How many hours do you work per week?" "Per week? I work part time on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, which are also when I have classes. And the rest of the week, except for weekends, I'm full time. So per week I'd say about a total of 30 to 45 hours. I'm also a part time math tutor when needed, but the sessions are always made when I can bring my son with me. It's nice, because I'm helping, and I bring in extra funds." "What benefits do you receive from your job?" "I'm luckier than most. A biomedical company funds our lab, and so all employees actually work for the company. We get full employee benefits, and those benefits extend to Tucker, and even Fox." "And who watches Jonathan while you're working?" "My mother watches him most of the time, but when he's not working or at classes, Fox loves to spend time with his son." "Alright, how often would you say that you have to leave Jonathan when neither of you are working?" "Fox and I rarely go out on our own. We've only left him with a babysitter two or three times. The rest of the time, we go someplace child friendly." "Who watched him on the occasions that you did go out on your own?" "Once it was my mother, and the other two times, my sister watched him." "They don't mind babysitting?" "No, my family is very supportive when it comes to Tucker. They have been ever since I found out I was pregnant. For a very long time they were the only supportive people in my life." "Alright. Since you aren't married, what assurances to you have that your relationship with Fox won't end as suddenly as your relationship with Jonathan's biological father did?" "What assurances does any couple have? Jack and I parted because he took advantage of our relationship, my body, and my trust. Fox is Jack's polar opposite. He accepted Tucker as a part of me, and he became a part of him as well. If I hadn't already fallen in love with him for him, his acceptance of my son would have done the trick." "Alright, do you mind if I look around before talking to your fianc?" "Be my guest, I need to finish up some things for work," Dana answered without thinking. Marcia jumped on that. "Do you often bring work home?" "On occasion, but I put it on hold until after Tucker is in bed, or for when he and his daddy are doing something together. Tucker is, and always will be my foremost priority." "Mommy! Mommy! Your birfday is soon?" Tucker asked, running into the room, seeking her lap. Dana nodded, attempting to tame his wild, curly red hair. He truly was every bit her son. "Yes sweetie, next week. Why do you ask?" "Surpwise," Tucker answered, making Dana smile. "Okay. I can't wait," Dana smoothed her hand over his cheek. "Where'd Daddy go?" Tucker made snoring sounds, making both women chuckle. Dana smiled a little wider. "Go give him a kiss and wake him up." "Mommy too." "Okay, Mommy too," Dana stood, holding him up with her. "Excuse us." "Take your time, I'm just going to look around." Dana set Tucker down and urged him forward, where he toppled into Fox's arms. "Daddy, Daddy, Daddy wake up." Dana saw Fox's lips twitch. "Baby, try this," she demonstrated, tickling Fox's side slowly. Tucker followed his mother's lead, and Fox's eyes popped open. "Evil woman," he hissed, tugging her down for a kiss. "What about me?" she asked innocently. "Your evilness is strangely endearing. I might just have to..." "To what?" she asked suspiciously. "To get even," he grinned; returning the favor of digging his fingers into her sides, causing her to cry out. Giggling, Tucker joined in. ~ @ ~ Three Days Later "And after carefully observation and review, it is my personal, and professional opinion that Fox Mulder and Dana Scully are competent and perfectly fit to raise their son, one Jonathan Tucker Scully," Marcia Thom concluded, reading from her official report. "It is also my professional opinion that Jonathan is a well-rounded, adjusted child, and to introduce a stranger to him and expect good results would be more detrimental than advantageous for the child." Dana released her breath, squeezing Fox's hand. He stroked her knuckles and listened intently for the judge's official ruling. "After reviewing the depositions given by both Miss Scully and Mister Mulder, and in light of the preceding testimony, it's my opinion that this should never have reached my desk. Miss Scully was well within her rights concerning her child. Since she has not acknowledged Mr. Richards as being the father in any way other than by mouth, this court cannot be entirely sure that Mr. Richards is even who he says he is. In light of this, I cannot order the payment of child support, and therefore my ruling is that custody of Jonathan Scully is denied. Visitation rights for Mr. Richards are denied as well. Also, I hereby grant the petition for adoption made by Mr. Mulder. Jonathan is now the legal child of Dana Scully and Fox Mulder." "Are you out of your mind?!" Jack yelled, "He's my son!" "Not in the eyes of this court, son. And if I were you, I would be thankful that Ms. Scully hasn't pursued the charges of rape that she would be well within her rights to file. Court's dismissed." Dana stood, amazed that her balance wasn't more off. Fox jumped up and encircled her waist. She clung to him tightly, a sob tearing from her throat. "See? What did I tell you?" he whispered, stroking her cheek with his lips. Dana half laughed, half sobbed, and pressed her lips to his. When they broke apart, she blinked away her tears. "Let's go home," she murmured. "I want to see our baby boy." "Me too," Fox agreed. ~ $ ~ Days Later Dana barely looked up as he came into the room. Her gaze was fixed on Tucker as he slept clutching the tiger Fox had given him. "How's he doing?" Fox asked, rubbing her shoulders. "I think you wore him out," she whispered back, leaning into him. For Dana's birthday, the family had gone to Fox's father's house and spent the weekend at the beach on the Vineyard. They'd just gotten home that day. "He sure tired me out too," Fox murmured. Dana stroked their son's cheek and stood, turning into his arms. "Are you too tired to play with me?" she grinned. "After all, it's only for a few more days that we'll be living in sin, better enjoy it while it lasts. I hear that sex is better when you're single," she whispered. "Well when you put it that way," he grinned facetiously, swinging her up into his arms. "We'll see you in the morning, son." Dana giggled, "I love you Fox." "I love you too," he answered, leaving the nursery. "And I bet that sex with you will still be amazing, even after we're married. Because everything about you is amazing, and that won't change." Dana kissed him in response. "Care to start testing that hypothesis?" "Absolutely," he grinned, depositing her on their bed. She pressed their lips together gently, letting it be a kiss of promise for the future. Fox smiled into her lips, he hadn't thought that he could love someone so completely, but now he knew that there would always be room in his heart for Dana, Tucker, and their life to come. That's the End Let me know what you thought: CatheyScully@the-pentagon.com or Foreverxphile@adelphia.net Author's Notes: First off, to my beta, Sam, thanks for all the hard work you did on the fic. To Jessie, whom the fic was dedicated to, for generally being supportive of me in general, even from a long distance. Thanks be to the MSR_Fanfic_Cheerleaders list, for being the best damn sounding board a writer could have. I wouldn't accomplish half of what I do, if not for them. And especially, the star of practically every note I've made, Ro, who is my best friend in the world, despite my hideous 'tude, and whatnot. So thanks. Any missing parts of this story can be found here: http://catheysfic.tripod.com/catheyscullyfic/id33.html