Date: Mon, 12 Apr 1999 08:32:42 -0400 From: Donna Honeycutt Subject: Text of Vacation Title - Vacation Author - Donna Email address - donnah@pop.uky.edu URL - www.geocities.com/Area51/Quadrant/4571/ Rating - NC-17 Category - Relationship Spoilers -none Keywords - romance/angst Summary - Time alone is always necessary Feedback - Please Disclaimer - Mulder, Scully, the Lone Gunman and Skinner all belong to Chris, 10-13 and Fox - Bless them for it!! No infringement intended. Vacation "Come on, tell me where you’re going on vacation, Scully." "Somewhere far away, Mulder. And I’m leaving my cell phone here." She placed the phone in the recharger and snapped her briefcase shut. "That’s it? What if you need me, Scully?" "I’ll try to muddle through, Mulder. See you a week from Monday. Enjoy your own vacation." "Don’t you want to know where I’m going?" "Nope. Have fun." And she was out the door. ***** She was already relaxing as she settled into her seat on the plane. With her frequent fliers she could have gone anywhere, but she wanted a place for complete rest, on her terms. This resort had sounded perfect, she could lay on the beach or go dancing, her choice – no work, no Mulder, for a whole week. This place was more expensive than she usually went for, but she deserved it. This past year ranked up there as one of the worst she’d ever survived. A mental health week was definitely on the agenda. This room was nothing like what she and Mulder normally got on the road. Sunken tub, king size bed, private beach right out the door. Damn! It was a little early for dinner, but she had so much practice unpacking she couldn’t really stretch it out. She chose one of her new dresses to wear to dinner. She’d never had anything like this to wear before, but it did look good on her. She turned in front of the mirror; no one looking at her would know what she did for a living. The dress was too short and tight to say doctor to anyone, much less FBI. She grabbed her little nothing purse, barely large enough for her gun and I.D. She shouldn’t be carrying the gun, but habit won out. She went to the bar first and got a glass of wine. Several heads turned when she entered, not all of them alone, at least two ankles were bruised as she made her way to the railing to watch the ocean while she sipped her wine. "May I join you?" She looked up into the chocolate eyes of the man standing beside her. He had to be 6’3", dark curly hair and a great smile – a trifle too confident – but he probably had reason to be. She smiled and nodded. "I’m David, David Williams." "Dana Scully." She held out her hand. "Pleased to meet you. Beautiful isn’t it?" "Um?" She looked up at him again. "The ocean, the view from here." He smiled that confident smile at her again. Not at all like Mulder’s, even his biggest smiles always had that trace of sadness in his eyes. Wait, wait, what the hell was she doing comparing Mulder with . . . why was she even thinking about Mulder. This was vacation; maybe she needed more wine. ". . . alone for dinner?" "I’m sorry, what?" "I was wondering is you were free for dinner tonight?" "Oh, uh, that would be nice, David. Thanks." David raised his hand and a waiter approached to lead them to a table. David was quite entertaining; an investment banker from New York, and as it turned out, an excellent dancer. They spent several hours together, ending with a stroll on the beach when he escorted her to her room. They made plans to meet the next morning and he waited until she was inside. She was pleased and a little amused at his protective gesture, but having glossed over her own occupation, it was sweet. He seemed to think she was a nurse. That worked, whatever. She slept like a baby that night. The bed was comfortable; the atmosphere was perfect, the ocean sounded so restful. God, this felt good. She woke later than usual to a beautiful day. She put on her new bikini and the sarong skirt that matched it and headed out to meet David for breakfast. He had secured them a table overlooking the pool. He rose and held her chair and after the waiter left, asked her how well she had slept. They continued to enjoy each other’s company. David glanced over at the pool again. "This guy can really dive. I’ve been watching him while I was waiting for you." "Which guy?" She turned to see who David was watching and saw a man slice into the water. Long muscular legs. That was about all she saw since he was already in the water. He came up on the far side of the pool, shaking the water from his hair and pulling himself up the ladder. Damn tiny suit, but it looked good on him. She wasn’t the only one to notice either. He turned toward his chair and snagged a towel. She finally got a good look at his face. "No!" David watched as the color left her face and then flushed with heat. "Dana?" "He wouldn’t dare!" She had completely forgotten David’s presence. She shoved back her chair and stalked toward the pool. David followed, not sure what was happening. Who was this guy? She approached him as he dried his hair; the towel over his head obscured part of his view, though he could see those legs that had stopped in front of him. Perfect, muscular without being bulky. He moved up the torso – very nice. Flat stomach, high firm tits. He’d like to. . . "How dare you!" That voice! He tore his eyes from her body and looked into the blazing blue eyes of his furious partner. "You followed me? Where the hell do you get off. . ." "Wait a minute, Scully. . ." "Damn you, Mulder. One week. I just wanted one week and you. . ." she raised her hand almost as if to slap him. He didn’t think she’d do that, but he caught her arm in his hand anyway. "Scully, I didn’t know you were here. I swear I didn’t follow you." "Dana, is everything okay?" David had caught up with them but was not sure what his next move should be. "Fine." She responded to David as she pulled her arm free. "I want to get out of here." "Scully, wait!" "Why don’t you leave her alone." David held his arm up to block this guy from following her. The guy looked to be in damn good shape, but David figured he could hold his own, if necessary. Mulder shook him aside. "Stay out of this." "No way. The lady doesn’t want you following her. I don’t want to call security." They looked each other up and down, assessing the other. Who was this guy being so protective of Scully? Did she come here with him or just meet him after she got here? And why here? He thought the brochures in the trashcan were rejects. "Don’t make any trouble, mister. Just leave her alone." David moved to catch up with Dana. Mulder’s body jerked with fury as David’s hand brushed her perfect ass on the way to her waist. She didn’t even react. Had his hand been there before? Who the hell was this guy? And why was that more important than her fury at him right now? A couple of the women who had their eye on him tried to close in now, to comfort him. He didn’t even notice as he left the pool and headed for his room. "Dana, slow down. It’s okay; he’s left the pool. Dana, please. You need to calm down. I know it must be bad having your ex stalk you, but I’m not going to let him bother you." "My who? What?" "I thought, I assumed that guy was your ex-husband or boyfriend." Now he was confused. What was going on? "Mulder’s not my ex anything. We work together." She wasn’t in the mood to explain anything. They worked together? No, it was more than that. The way they reacted to each other was not that of mere co-workers. Whatever, she did seem to be calming down a little. "Look, why don’t we go into town? We can look around, go through some of the shops." And they could be alone. Maybe they could get close quicker since he’d rescued her. She stopped; he was trying to be nice, even if he was too smooth for her taste. Hell, why should she let Mulder ruin her vacation? She wouldn’t have to see him. Fine, she’d just stay out of his way. "Thank you, David. That’s a wonderful idea. Let me go change. I’ll meet you at the front desk." David smiled, "I’ll get us some motorbikes, okay?" He knew a secluded beach, where he might be able to get things started. She smiled; she could still have a great vacation. To hell with Mulder. She and David had a great day, shopping, exploring and just being together. They didn’t return to the hotel until time for dinner. She took a quick shower and changed into another of her new outfits. This one was even shorter than the one from the night before, with only spaghetti straps for security. There probably wasn’t two yards of fabric in the whole thing. She felt absolutely wanton. David was waiting for her in the bar. He stood, his eyes widening in appreciation as she approached him. "Wow!" She blushed at his obvious approval. "Thank you." He held out his arm and led her to their table. Neither spotted Mulder watching from the far side of the room. But of course, neither was looking for him. His breath caught at that dress. He’d never seen her like that. That was the same guy that had "rescued" her this morning. Who was he? Damn they looked chummy. He had to talk to her; he had to make her understand this was all a mistake. Were they leaving? David led Dana onto the dance floor and took her in his arms. Mulder felt his entire body stiffen in fury. No way, he had to talk to her. He took a deep breath and stepped out onto the dance floor. Scully spotted him just as he tapped on David’s shoulder. "I need to cut in." He spoke to David, but his eyes never left Scully’s. "Mulder, I don’t. . . "Please Scully. Please." "Dana, you don’t have to. . ." David began. "Scully. . ." Mulder’s eyes were pleading. "It’s okay, David." She turned and Mulder put his arms around her. David retreated to their table, not taking his eyes from them. Their dancing was stiff, this was unfamiliar to both of them. "Could we go somewhere, just to talk?" "No." She wasn’t going to make this easy on him. He’d done this, he deserved to sweat. "Scully, I didn’t follow you here. I swear it. I had no idea you would be here. Yes, I got the brochure from you in a way. I found it in your trash in the office. I assumed it was somewhere you’d rejected. Do you think I want to get myself killed?" He looked so earnest; she was beginning to wonder if she’d flown off the handle too quickly. "Scully, you have to believe me. I did not follow you." "So you’re saying it’s just a case of great minds?" He closed his eyes in relief and involuntarily pulled her closer. She allowed it and their dancing took on a smoothness that had been lacking. "You do believe me, don’t you, Scully?" She sighed, "Yes, Mulder. You’re not that stupid. You could definitely come up with a better story than that." "You look really good, Scully." She missed a step at that. She’d forgotten how she was dressed. Scully didn’t dance, half dressed with Mulder. Dana could dance with David. This wasn’t smart. "Since we’re both here, Scully, could we have breakfast together tomorrow?" "I don’t know, Mulder. That’s. . ." "Please. No shop talk, just some time together." "I thought that was the point of this vacation, getting away from each other." His face fell, "You want to be away from me that much?" Now it was her arms that tightened. "That’s not what I meant, Mulder. But aren’t you tired of me? I mean, all we do anymore is fight." "Well, how do you know that’s what we’d do if we weren’t working? I mean, if we just had fun together. . ." "David’s coming." They’d danced through two numbers already and hadn’t even noticed. He pulled her closer. "Breakfast, okay?" It sounded so important to him. "Okay, Mulder. I’ll meet you for breakfast." "Want me to pick you up?" "I can find the dining room on my own." She responded dryly. "Dana, is everything okay?" David was eyeing Mulder, but not bothering to acknowledge him. "Yes, David, thanks. I’ll see you tomorrow, Mulder." Mulder had to force himself to release her body, it felt too good. He managed to step away. "See you in the morning." He walked away. He looked back once, but seeing David’s hands on her did not help his mood. At least he knew David wouldn’t be in her room all night. She wouldn’t do that anyway, but knowing she’d be having breakfast with him was comforting. "You don’t seem as upset." David offered. "We got it straightened out. He didn’t follow me, it was a coincidence." "A coincidence? From Washington, DC?" "It’s a lot more plausible than some things we’ve worked on. It’s okay, David. Thanks for worrying." "You’re seeing him in the morning?" "Yes. We’re meeting for breakfast." "Breakfast? I was hoping we would be having breakfast together." She smiled, but made no comment. They danced some more, but the mood was broken and David seemed more than a little miffed that she had made a date with the very man he had protected her from. Finally pleading fatigue she excused herself and returned to her room. As she was wriggling out of her dress, she flashed back to Mulder in that tiny red Speedo. She hadn’t realized what a good look she’d gotten. She’d never noticed how his chest hair trailed down past his navel into. . .Dana Scully! Her face was flaming. It took quite a while to get to sleep, but she woke on time and hurried to get ready to meet Mulder. She was putting on lipstick when Mulder knocked on the door. "Am I early?" He asked as she let him in. He couldn’t help it; he glanced around the room looking for any sign of David. "No. As I recall I’m not the one that normally keeps one of us waiting. And wasn’t I supposed to meet you in the dining room?" He grinned and she had to look away as visions of that Speedo rose again in her mind. "Scully?" "Yeah, yeah, I’m ready." She grabbed her bag and proceeded him out the door. Just when did Mulder learn charm? He actually had her laughing at breakfast. He could be entertaining. Too bad it shocked her so. Was this the reason the women at the Bureau were always so aware of him when he went by? Even his reputation didn’t keep them from looking. And just when had she noticed that? ". . .and we could take a half day or so. . ." "What? Mulder, I’m sorry, I was thinking about something else. What were you saying?" He glanced around to see if David was approaching or what might have distracted her. "I was just wondering if you might want to go snorkeling today. I haven’t been in years, but. . ." "That sounds like fun, Mulder." "Really?" "Yes, really. What do we need?" An hour later they were on a boat heading toward an area the hotel had recommended. "I can’t believe you got on a boat, Mulder." "Me either. But it should be a short trip. I hope." She kept him distracted as best she could. The most distracting was stripping down to her swimsuit on deck, but he managed to not swallow his tongue and keep his balance while he unabashedly watched this show. The actual snorkeling was magnificent. The weather was warm, the sea calm and the company extremely compatible. Their innate communication skills came in quite handy underwater. It was several hours before they lured Mulder back to the boat for the return trip. Scully sank onto a bench in the shade of the overhang and gratefully accepted the beer Mulder handed her. "You got some sun, Scully." "I know. Toss me my bag and I’ll put on some more sunscreen. You could use some too." He obediently turned to let her slather his back, closing his eyes to concentrate on the sensation. After a while, in deference to her red hair they moved inside and sat where the breeze from the windows was strongest. When he realized she’d fallen asleep against his shoulder, he put his arm around her and then dozed himself, his cheek against her hair. The mate checked on them once and reported back that they were asleep. "Newlyweds. Happens every time." The captain nodded knowingly. Mulder woke as they approached the dock and gently shook her. "Um, Mulder. . ." and cuddled in closer to him. That surprised him, confused him too. He decided analyzing it would detract from the enjoyment, so just whispered her name in her ear instead. "Scully? Come on, Scully, wake up. We made it back to land." "Land? Oh Mulder, how long did I sleep?" "Not sure. I was asleep myself." He grinned at her. "Maybe we can stay up late dancing tonight." Now why would that make her blush, he wondered? Maybe it was just the sun. The drive back to the hotel was much too short, but they had time to shower and change before meeting in the dining room for dinner. "Stop staring at my hair, Mulder." "I wasn’t staring, but I’ve never seen it like that before." "I’ve lost control of it. I can’t get it to straighten." "You straighten your hair?" "I can’t come to work like this." This was amazing, Scully thought over dinner. They’d spent all day together, hadn’t discussed work at all, and still had plenty to say. Who would have thought? She didn’t notice David approach, but became aware something was wrong as Mulder’s grip tightened and his posture became more rigid. "May I cut in?" David smiled at her, ignoring Mulder. She threw Mulder a silent apology and turned to let David’s arms go around her. Mulder retreated to the table, not at all happy about the interruption. "Did you have a good day?" David tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and she could actually feel the heat in the stare Mulder fixed on him. "Yes, we had a lot of fun." "I looked for you after breakfast, but you’ve been gone all day." "We went out on a charter." "Oh. Well, it’s good you patched up your differences." She smiled her response. "He’s coming back, can I get in an invitation to lunch tomorrow?" "I’m sorry, David. Mulder and I already have plans." Now what had possessed her to tell such a blatant lie? They hadn’t discussed tomorrow at all. David’s company had been fun, before Mulder got here. Wait a minute Dana, remember the purpose of this vacation – to spend some time away from Mulder. Then she felt Mulder’s arms go back around her. "I’ll try again later, Dana." She nodded as Mulder led her away. After several more dances Mulder escorted her back to her room. "Did you make plans with David for tomorrow?" Ready to kick himself if he’d missed an opportunity. She pulled her keycard from her bag. "No." She was careful not to meet his eyes, concentrating on the little green light. "Good! I mean, maybe we could go exploring or something." "That would be nice, Mulder, as long as you promise not to search for E.T." "I swear." He crossed his heart and held up his hand. "Good night, Mulder." "Night, Scully." He was oblivious to the looks he received as he made his way back to his own room, the women alternating between relieved and disappointed, the men alternating between understanding and jealous. Vacation - Part 2 (NC-17) He found her in the cabana having fruit for breakfast the next morning. After a short discussion they decided to rent a jeep, pack a lunch and make a day of the island. He didn’t realize they were being followed until they turned onto a dirt road Mulder chose at random to check out. He didn’t mention it to Scully, it was probably nothing. The car only looked sinister because the windows were so dark. He revised that opinion as he watched the car accelerate. "Scully, hold on!" He had time to say before the car rammed their jeep from behind. "What the. . ." was her comment as they were struck again. "Hold on!" Mulder repeated as he sped up, looking for a place to leave the road. The jeep should be more maneuverable than the Mercedes. Too late, the Mercedes was more powerful. They were rammed again, then clipped from the side. Mulder had time to see that she was indeed buckled and braced before the roll bar took over support of their car. Fortunately he had managed to reduce speed seconds before actually leaving the road, so the jeep only rolled completely once, coming to rest on its side. The Mercedes spun around and headed back the way it had come. Scully shook her head to clear it and then did a quick inventory of possible injuries. She had a cut above her right eye and was banged up, but the seat belt and roll bar had done their jobs. She was however hanging in the seat belt down toward Mulder. Mulder! Was he okay? She managed to unbuckle herself and crawl out of her door, which was now the top of the vehicle. She raced around to the other side; he hadn’t moved or made a sound. Damn it, Mulder, you have to be okay! She hauled the ice chest out away from the jeep and was finally able to reach in and touch him. A pulse, a little rapid, but strong. Her knees almost gave out on her, her relief was so great. Now she had to get him out. She couldn’t leave to get help while he was unconscious. She was aware of a fuel smell, her options were not great, what if she injured him worse dragging him out? He rolled his head then, and he groped for the other seat, where she had been. "Mulder. You have to help me. I’ve got to get you out of here." There was no response. God he was heavy. She managed to drag him several yards from the jeep, then went back for the first aid kit and ice chest. She washed and bandaged the cut on his leg, then her own scrape on her forehead. Now what? Could she leave him? Would the Mercedes come back? Well, she had her gun, why had she left that damn cell phone at the office? To distance herself from Mulder, of course. Worked real well, didn’t it, Dana. "Scully!" He came awake with a jerk. "I’m here, Mulder. It’s okay. Just stay still." He ignored that and sat up with a slight groan. "They forced us off the road. Are you okay?" "I’m fine, Mulder. I’m. . ." Suddenly she was trembling. She didn’t want him to see her so out of control. "Scully?" Scully never lost it, but she was shaking now. "What?" "I thought. . ." She tried to still her hands, "I thought you were dead." "Come on, Scully, that could never happen when you’re with me. We’re okay. Scully?" He watched as her eyes filled with tears. Was she hurt and wouldn’t tell him? What was wrong? He leaned in to comfort her as she looked up. He couldn’t help himself. His lips lightly brushed hers. When she didn’t pull away he did it again, applying more pressure. "Mulder, no. We can’t." "We seem to be quite capable, Scully." "Mulder." The taste of his name of her lips was intoxicating. Or maybe he was still lightheaded from the wreck. No, he knew better. He wiped the tears from her face. "Did you really think I was dead?" She nodded, not wanting to meet his eyes and not at all sure her voice wouldn’t crack. "Remind me not to tick off David again for the rest of our stay." "David? He wouldn’t do this. It was probably one of your nymphets from the pool." She pulled herself away from the power of him. "Nymphet? I beg to differ." And, he thought, I want to keep kissing you, Scully. "Beg all you want. Someone deliberately ran us off the road and we need to report it to the police." He couldn’t disagree with that, but no one had passed them on the road. Scully was rummaging through the ice chest. "Here, Mulder, drink this. I don’t want to leave you until I’m sure you’re okay." "Leave me? No way. We’ll walk out together." "Your leg. . ." "It’s just a cut. My doctor’s already fixed me up. Look, we’re out of the sun here; we’ve got food. Let’s just make the best of it. Someone will be along." "What if it’s them?" "You armed?" She nodded, "Me too. Just relax – couldn’t we go back to what we were doing?" He asked hopefully. "Mulder." "Scully, please don’t ever use my name for "no", okay?" She smiled and settled in beside him in the shade. More than an hour past before another vehicle came down their dirt road. They had finished lunch and Scully had kicked sand into the gasoline that had leaked from the jeep to keep the danger of possible fire down. The couple, Sandy and Gary, were tourists themselves. They were more than happy to help them out and take them back to town. Sandy was especially concerned that their injuries would ruin their trip. "We’re on our honeymoon, too. I’d hate for you to have bad memories of that." "Oh, we’re not. . ." Scully began. "It’s a beautiful place for a honeymoon, isn’t it." Mulder broke in, daring Scully with his eyes. Her eyes narrowed as he continued. "This is a delayed honeymoon for us. We just never seem to be able to get away from work." "Oh really? How long have you been married?" "Five years." He responded as Scully looked away, coughing. His eyes were twinkling when she looked back. She almost laughed out loud. She had to be reacting to the wreck, she should be furious with him. As they pulled up to the hotel, Sandy leaned over to Scully. "May I ask you a question?" "Sure." "Do you love him as much as you did five years ago?" That caught her off-guard, how should she handle this in light of Mulder’s lie? She didn’t dare look up, she knew he was watching her. Why did he always put her in impossible situations? Okay, two could play at this game, and he was so still waiting to see if she’d blow it. "More. Much more." She finally raised her head, expecting a grin or a leer, at least a wink. She was totally unprepared for the look of naked hunger in his eyes. She was rooted to the spot, why had she told the truth? This wasn’t a game anymore. "That’s so wonderful to hear. I feel like I already love Gary more than on our wedding day, just a few days ago. We’ve been together for awhile, I guess it’s the commitment that makes the difference." "Yeah, it’s good to know it’s forever." This was out of control; she needed to be alone for awhile. After she made sure Mulder was okay, she was going to go hide somewhere. She should have stuck to her original plan of spending a week away from Mulder. Of course, that was before what they had shared following the wreck. How could she have allowed herself to react that way? They had kissed and then pretended to be married. What had she been thinking? No, this stopped now. They worked together, they needed to trust each other, but this. . . The hotel doctor congratulated her on her treatment of their injuries, and released them with the admonition to contact him immediately if anything changed. "Mulder, you need to go on to your room and rest. You suffered a shock and I want you to put your feet up." She advised as they left the doctor's. "What about you?" "I’m fine. Go on." "Scully, what happened? We were having fun together." He was confused and more than a little hurt at her change in attitude. "Maybe too much fun, Mulder. We need to. . ." "What are you afraid will happen, Scully?" Would she be honest with him? He could hear his heart thumping in his chest, waiting for this answer. She looked up at him, straight in the eye. "I’m afraid we’d end up in bed together." He winced, maybe he hadn’t wanted that much honesty after all. "And making love with me would be that horrible?" "Mulder, don’t do this. So far nothing has happened that would interfere with work when we get back Monday morning. We need to keep it that way." "Why? Half the damn Bureau thinks we’re sleeping together already." Her eyes widened in surprise. Yes, she knew that, but she hadn’t realized he did. If it wasn’t an X-file she didn’t think he noticed. And he never seemed to follow office gossip in any case. She finally found her voice. "That doesn’t mean they would condone it if we really did. That’s just what they need to have Skinner shut us down again. Is that what you want, Mulder?" "No one has to know, Scully. We don’t owe them our whole lives." "Mulder, please!" She couldn’t handle this conversation. Not now, maybe not ever. He dropped his hand back to his side. He’d started to reach for her, but she might cringe from him and he didn’t think he could take that. "Can we have dinner together?" She shook her head, not trusting her voice. She couldn’t shake the memory of the look on his face when she’d told Sandy she loved him more now than five years ago. She was afraid that look was going to haunt her forever. She turned to go to her room. "Scully?" She didn’t respond, just kept walking. She had to recapture her professionalism, not let herself get so close to him. It was too dangerous. Dangerous? Where had that word come from? Mulder would never hurt her, not intentionally anyway. She didn’t see the look on his face, which was just as well, if she thought the other look would haunt her. She let herself into her room and leaned against the door, shutting it. She should have left when she realized he was here. How the hell were things ever going to be the same again? Would they even be able to work with each other? God, what had she done? It took several minutes to regain her composure, then she forced herself upright again and headed for the bathroom. She had wanted to try out that sunken tub and now was as good a time as any. The tub didn’t give her the relief she’d wanted and she hadn’t stayed in long, it was just giving her more time to think. That was the last thing she wanted. She dressed in a bikini top and shorts and went out to her patio with a book; maybe that would help. She hadn’t spent much time alone and the view of the beach and ocean from here was magnificent. Maybe she could relax. In a few minutes she was ready to throw the book in the ocean. What had possessed her to pack a romance novel? Yes, she had wanted to read some light trash at the beach, but that was before her own life had taken on trashy romantic aspects. She started to stand when she heard someone approaching her private area. He wouldn’t come here, would he? Not after what they’d, no, what she had said. "Dana? Are you okay?" David came around the privacy fence. "I heard you were in an accident." "David. Hi, yes, I’m fine." Where had he heard about it? "If I’m in the way. . ." he looked toward the glass doors of her room. "No, you’re welcome. Have a seat." At least he was a distraction. They talked for a while, at least he talked. She was too distracted to really follow the conversation. Her mind kept returning to the look on Mulder's face. "Dana?" "I'm sorry. What?" "I asked if you wanted some dinner." "David, I appreciate it, but I'm just going to stay in tonight. I'll order something from room service. . . " "No." "What?" He had risen and was standing over her. "I said no. If it weren't for your damn co-worker this would already have happened." He seemed to be talking to himself and had hold of her arm. She was caught off guard, normally no one would be able to get the upper hand with her but she'd been thinking her own thoughts. What the hell was he doing? She still didn't realize the danger she was in. He had pulled her to her feet and was now half dragging her into her room. The light was finally dawning and she began to struggle against his grip. Her gun was in her purse; no way he'd let her get that far. What had set him off? Now she was struggling in earnest, but he had obviously had this fight before, he was able to counter every move. What was he? Some sort of serial rapist? Even as the thought crossed her mind, she knew the rightness of it. He was too smooth, too confident. He had her in a chokehold, bent backwards. He knew what he was doing. Her bathing suit top fell to the floor and he grabbed her breast in a painful grip. "What are you doing?" She managed to gasp out. "That asshole of a co-worker threw off the timetable. You can't be sure the first time." What the hell was he talking about? Her pants ripped as he jerked them off and fumbled for her panties. "Don't do this, David. Please, talk to me. Tell me what. . . " "Shut up! It's your turn." Turn? He was crazy. He bent her backwards over the bed and pulled his own pants down. He wasn't wearing underwear. This was going to happen. She managed a deep breath and screamed, then again, screaming Mulder's name. His hand across her face cut off her cry and he was on top of her. ***** He shouldn't be here. She wanted time away from him. That's why she'd come here, to get away from him. What had happened between them earlier, she hadn't wanted it. She didn't want him and he had to let her know that was okay. He hadn't really expected it anyway, and he should never have allowed himself to. . . was that her? He raced the last few steps to her door. She'd screamed his name, or started to. No time, he kicked the door in and took in the horrific scene with one glance. He hauled David off of her throwing him halfway across the room. He wasn't armed; he hadn't felt he would need to be with her. Mulder had several other advantages though, his pants weren't down below his knees, he had the element of surprise, and David had never, ever, been filled with the murderous fury that now possessed Mulder. Scully was dazed, please don't let this be an illusion. Please let Mulder really be here. She rolled to her side, fighting nausea and saw David crumple to the floor as Mulder pummeled him. David was no longer conscious when Mulder let him fall to the floor. Mulder yanked the cord from the lamp and tied his hands behind him and finally, panting, turning to Scully. She seemed unable to move. He snagged a towel and gently covered her nudity. "Scully?" "Is it you? Are you really here?" She managed to whisper. "Yes, Scully. It's okay." He wasn't entirely sure that was true. She reached out a trembling hand to him and he carefully enfolded her into his arms. "I've got you Scully. Just relax. I need to call the authorities." She nodded, not removing her face from his chest. By the time the police arrived, she'd managed to dress herself, and in spite of Mulder's protestations, accompanied them to the police station. There David's fingerprints lit up the computers like a Christmas tree. Outstanding warrants in four states, three aliases, and two attempted murder charges flew in. "What is the story with this fucking creep?" Mulder ran through the information that was pouring in by email and fax. Scully watched him, as a victim they wouldn't accept her involvement in the case. She saw Mulder's face go dead white. "Mulder, what? Please!" "Scully," his voice was shaking. "Did I get there in time? How far. . . " She put her hand on his cheek. "Your timing was impeccable. Nothing happened. Why?" He held out the reports, "He's charged with attempted murder by AIDS. Two of his victims have been diagnosed HIV positive." Scully stared at him unable to speak. That's what he'd meant. "You can't be sure the first time." Oh god, what if Mulder hadn't been there. She'd have this hanging over her. . . her grip on Mulder's arms had become painful, though he hadn't made a move. She closed her eyes and he lowered her into the chair he'd been using and crouched beside her. "I'll get you some water." "No, just get me out of here." He nodded and helped her to her feet. They both turned as the man they knew as David was escorted back towards his cell, ankles and wrists shackled. "I should have made sure you were dead this afternoon. It would have been easier consoling the grieving widow." He spat at Mulder. "We'll add that to the charges against you." Mulder took a step closer, "I just want to know why." "Look at her. It was a hot little bitch just like her who did this to me, at a resort like this. Now it's payback time - any cunt that spreads her legs deserves this." "You're crazy." "It works, doesn't it? She may have killed me, but I'll take her kind with me when I go." "Shut up and move." The cop yanked on his arm and he began shuffling along, head up and defiant. "Mr. Mulder?" The detective in charge approached them. "I'm assuming you weren't here undercover, apparently this guy hadn't been linked as a serial rapist yet, but I wanted to thank you for your help. He would have done a lot more damage." "Can I take Scully home now?" "Sure. Just let us know before you leave." They both nodded and Mulder held her as he walked her out to the car. They were both silent on the ride back. She didn't speak until they were inside his room. "Thanks, I didn't want to go back there." "It's all yours. Can I get you anything?" "Why were you at my room? I'd been so cruel to you earlier. I'd run you off. I. . . " "I was coming to apologize. I shouldn't have been kidding around earlier. I overstepped your bounds. I know. . . have known for a long time you're not interested in me that way. I had no right to put you in that kind of position." "Not interested? Is that what you think?" "Well sure, but look I don't blame you. I just want to keep working with you. I wanted to be sure I hadn't damaged that. I need your friendship, your trust." Was he saying this right? Was she going to understand? He was way outside his comfort zone here. She had closed her eyes during his speech and his fear rose another notch. "You think I'm not interested. Oh Mulder." She opened her eyes and pulled him down beside her on the loveseat. "Mulder, it's not that I'm not interested, the problem is I'm too interested in you." She shook her head. "I'm afraid Mulder. If we get closer that we already are, I'm afraid I'll lose myself in you. You're so strong and passionate, I could disappear. All we ever do is fight. . . " "Argue. We never fight, we argue." "See? If I don't keep you at arm's length I. . . " "Scully, don't you know you're the strong one, not me. I draw on your strength every day just to get by. Making love would only make us stronger, not weaker. They'd never to able to separate us then." "What if they find out?" "We can face that together, like we have everything else." Yes, together they could do anything. She reached up and pulled his face down to hers, brushing her lips across his. "Scully, wait. I didn't mean tonight. I. . . I don’t. . .I’m not prepared. . . I. . ." "Fox Mulder, you came to a resort like this, with all these beautiful women and you didn’t bring any supplies?" She smiled at him, goading him. "I don’t do that. . . I mean, I wouldn’t. . . " She had him totally flustered, it had never occurred to him that tonight, after. . . "Mulder, I know your medical history better than I know my own. And I think I trust you more than I do myself. I was teasing you." "But you’ve been through. . . " "Mulder, this afternoon I thought you were dead." She was completely serious again; she had to make him understand. "I can't describe what that did to me. It was different than with my father, or even Emily. I thought the largest part of me was dead too. I pushed that away until I realized you had saved my life again tonight. I told Sandy I loved you more than I did five years ago. What I didn't tell her was that I love you more every afternoon than I did that morning. Every day, Mulder, it just keeps growing. I need to be with you, to be alive." "Scully." And she was kissing him again. He'd been right, she was the strong one, because he was losing himself rapidly. When her hand began tracing him through his slacks he groaned into her mouth and grasped her hand. "Not here." He picked her up and carried her to the bed, where he began to slowly undress her. She didn't help him, she couldn't. She was too busy watching his face, his eyes. She lay there completely abandoned to his hands and lips. When he removed his own clothing her eyes widened. "Scully?" "Sorry, the term 'extreme possibilities' just came to me." He grinned as he nuzzled her neck. "Thanks." "What are we waiting for?" "For me to believe this is real, not just some fantasy I've created. And I create damn good fantasies where you're concerned." She blushed and drew her hand across his nipple. "Now Mulder. Please." She murmured in his ear. He entered her slowly, giving her time to adjust, to stretch to accommodate him. He paused and looked at her, she opened her eyes and smiled. He began to move slowly inside her. This was so right, so very right, to be inside of her where he belonged. He reached between them to finger her core and she moaned against his chest. Ah, she liked that. He continued, drawing himself farther out and then deeper inside of her. She was slipping, her control going. He picked up the pace thrusting into her ever deeper, harder. Suddenly she dissolved into a million stars and felt herself leave her body, entering his, combining with him, becoming him. How was this possible? Never. . . She heard them crying out her name as they thrust a final time, filling her with their essence. Then the whole world was still. When his senses began returning to him, he realized he was on top of her, probably smothering her and started to retreat from her body reluctantly. "Noooo." She moaned and he paused. "Don't leave me. Mulder, please don't leave me, not yet." "I'll crush you." "That would be fine. Just don’t leave me." He smiled and rolled to his side, keeping her against his body, settling her against him. "Sleep, Scully. I'll never leave you." He stroked her hair as she slept against him, finally drifting off himself. She woke slowly, seeing from the light filtering through the blinds, that morning had come a long time ago. She was in Mulder's arms, she could feel his cock, thick and heavy lying on her inner thigh. They had made love last night, finally. She had never dreamed, never in her wildest fantasies. . . She gently disentangled herself from his body and slipped into the bathroom. When she returned he was lying on top of the covers, watching her with half-closed eyes, no part of him asleep any longer. She moved toward him as though a magnet had her in its tow, and just as inevitably. Mounting him and sinking onto him, taking him back where he belonged. His hands on her waist set the pace, pulling her down ever deeper as she arched and felt herself begin to fly apart again. He held her as she convulsed around him and when she had returned to her body, lowered her gently onto the bed and began the slow thrusting of his own body. "Scully! Oh god, Scully!" He thought he would lose consciousness as he erupted into her, and she held him as he had held her, leading him back, stroking his body. This time she allowed him to leave her body and collapse beside her. When she felt he could hear again, she kissed his ear, "Mulder? We could probably use a little nourishment now, if we're going to keep this up." "Yeah, whatever." He couldn't yet open his eyes, but he managed to curve an arm around her neck and pull her down to his lips again. After a few moments she tried again. "Food, Mulder. We're going to need some food." "What? Yeah, food. But here, please, I can't. . . " She nodded and placed the order with room service. She left him to catch a quick shower, which turned out to be quite lengthy when he joined her, but they still managed to be semi-clothed when the food arrived. Over breakfast, Scully smiled, "We've only got a couple of days of vacation left. What do you want to do?" "Nothing that entails leaving this room." "Mulder. We can't go back to DC pale and exhausted. I haven't had a real vacation since we got together. I mean five years ago, not last night." She responded to the rise in his eyebrow. "And there’s a lot of this island I haven’t seen yet."