From: "LKB" <internet.addict@home.com>
Date: Thu, 10 May 2001 19:23:54 -0400
Subject: The Project by Lynn K. Ballantine
Source: direct

Monday, February 17th, 8:30 p.m. 

Franklin had watched them eating, listened to their dinner
conversation. 
 If only they could see and hear themselves the way he did, his work
would be done for him.  He called Felicity on the house phone and
asked her to meet him in his room.  When she arrived he explained to
her what he had in mind. 

"Franklin, the Old Man said to give her a couple of days.  He's not
going to like you going in again so soon." 

"Felicity, my dear, he said to give her time to regain her balance. 
Well, she has. She is also, apparently, on vacation.  I can't go see
her at work.  This is the perfect time.  Trust me on this, the Old Man
will approve." 

"And what am I supposed to be doing?" 

"Waiting" came the terse reply. 

"Waiting for what?" 

"Until she's ready.  I'll let you know.  It will be a few days,
anyway." 

"So, when are you going?" 

"Right now" he said, lying down on the bed.  Felicity put up the 'do
not disturb' sign when she left. 

Monday, February 17th, 9:00 p.m. 

Scully switched channels.  She really wasn't up to watching a horror
movie.  With no warning, Franklin appeared in the chair across from
her.  She opened her mouth to speak and he held up a hand to stop her. 
"Just listen to me for a minute, okay?"  She closed her mouth, crossed
her arms and waited. 

"I never meant to scare you or to hurt you.  I am only here to make
your life better." 

"My life is fine the way it is, thank you."  She no longer feared him
but she could no longer convince herself that this was an illusion. 

"And he is just your friend, right?  No romantic feelings at all,
right?" 

"Right." 

"Look at the television, Dana."  She looked.  She gaped.  Mulder. 
Dancing with a tall, beautiful woman with waist-length platinum hair. 
They were clearly enjoying themselves, and each other. 

"How did you do that?" she exclaimed, wide-eyed. 

"Change the channel, why don't you?"  Franklin didn't like doing this
to her but it really was necessary if she was going to understand. 
When the rest of his plan went into effect tomorrow, she would be
ready to believe. 

Scully fumbled with the remote.  She couldn't get rid of that image
fast enough. The image that replaced it was startlingly worse.  Mulder
was in bed. With a woman. They were making love.  In spite of
everything, she was amazed at his agility.  And impressed.  She turned
the TV off.  "This isn't happening" she whispered to herself. 

"No, Dana, it isn't happening.  He would never do that to you.  But
how does it make you feel to think it might happen?"  He gave her a
few seconds to process that thought, then continued.  "It makes you
feel sick, doesn't it?"  She nodded, utterly speechless.  "Why is
that, Dana?  Why does it bother you to see him with another woman?" 
He waited another few seconds.  Getting no response, he answered for
her. "Because you love him, that's why." 

"No....."  she whispered, then louder, "No!"  Then she shouted "NO!!" 
She had risen to her feet and strode off in the direction of the
bedroom. Franklin was there before her.  Neither of them spoke for a
moment. 

Franklin spoke first.  "It wasn't real, Dana.  It was just your fear
manifesting itself. He has no interest in other women.  He loves you." 

Scully was so intent on Franklin's voice she didn't hear the other
voice. 

She couldn't take any more of this.  "Just get out" she said tiredly,
"Just leave me alone."  Remembering how she got rid of him last time,
she slipped her hands under the back of her t-shirt and unhooked her
bra.  In one motion, she took off the shirt and bra and stood
half-naked.  He was gone.  If she had to sit around naked, that's what
she would do.  She left the bedroom.  Half way to the kitchen, she
heard it. 


Monday, February 17th, 9:00 p.m. 

Mulder was almost all the way home when he realized he had left his
case-file at Scully's apartment.  It wasn't like him to forget things. 
He would call and ask her to bring it to him tomorrow, he reached in
his pocket.  No phone.  Damn.  It was sitting, with the file, on
Scully's table.  He would have to go back.  He needed both for
tomorrow.  He turned around and headed back. 

Arriving at Scully's door twenty minutes later, he discovered the door
unlocked. Now that was definitely not Scully-like.  He drew his weapon
and crept in the door, closing it quietly behind him.  Hearing nothing
at first, seeing no one, he called quietly "Scully? You okay?"  No
answer.  He moved to the kitchen.  He thought he heard Scully's voice.
Listening carefully, he heard no other voice.  Maybe she was on the
phone.  "Scully?" a little louder.  He took one step toward the
bedroom.  Suddenly, Scully was standing in front of him, naked from
the waist up. 

Mulder gaped.  His tongue was tied in so many knots he was incapable
of anything but garbled speech.  It took him three tries to put his
gun back in its holster.  God, she was magnificent!  He tried again to
ask her if everything was alright.  He tried valiantly to put his
brain back where it belonged. 

Scully was utterly humiliated.  Mulder was standing in the kitchen
doorway, gaping at her.  He was practically drooling.  Suppressing the
urge to cover herself and run, shaking off her embarrassment, she
straightened her shoulders and looked directly at him. 

"Oh, for God's sake, grow up, Mulder!"  Summoning all the dignity she
could, she turned from him and walked away. 

After what seemed like days, Mulder was able to move, to follow her. 
Walking was not easy.  He thought about Scully in trouble and, in a
flash, all other thoughts were gone. He ran the last few steps to her
door.  It stood open.  He saw Scully, lying on the bed, face buried in
her pillow.  He walked to the bed.  Her back was bare and he was
reluctant to touch it for fear of upsetting her even more.  He
crouched beside the bed and stroked her hair.  When she didn't pull
away, he rested his chin on the pillow beside her, speaking quietly in
her ear. 

"I'm sorry, Scully.  I'm so sorry.  I forgot some stuff and I came
back for it.  The door was open and I thought there was something
wrong.  I came in and..."  Scully turned her head to look at him. 
Their faces were just inches apart.  She could see the fear in his
eyes.  He could see the tears in hers.  The temptation to kiss those
tears away was almost more than he could bear. 

"It's okay, Mulder."  She whispered.  She reached up to caress his
cheek, dropped her hand back to the pillow.  "It's okay."  She turned
away from him, then, feeling the heat rising in her face. 

Mulder stood, took her robe from the foot of the bed and held it out
to her.  Without a word, she reached out and took it from him.  It
made her smile when he turned his back to let her cover herself.  Why
bother now, she wondered. 

Her robe belted around her, she touched his arm.  He turned to her
with a look so tender, so.....loving, she couldn't feel embarrassed. 
She took his hand and led him out of the bedroom.  Neither of them
spoke as she led him to the kitchen.  Letting go of his hand, she
busied herself making tea.  He sat at the table.  The silence was
comfortable, broken only by the sounds she was making in the kitchen. 

Mulder cleared his throat, not sure he could trust his voice. 
Nevertheless, he felt compelled to speak.  "Scully....."  She looked
over at him, a small resigned smile on her face.  He was not going to
let this go, she knew.  She handed him his tea and sat across from
him. 

"He came back, Mulder.  Right after you left.  He showed me....things. 
I just wanted him to go away."  She was trying very hard to maintain
control. More than anything she did not want to cry right now. 

"What things?"  She didn't answer.  "What things, Scully?  What did he
show you?" 

"He made it appear on the TV.  I don't know how, he just did.  It was
you.  He made me see you.  With a woman." 

Mulder was flabbergasted.  "It didn't happen, Scully."  He needed her
to believe that. 

"I know that, Mulder.  He.... I don't know why he did that.  It upset
me.  I just wanted him to go away." 

"So you took your clothes off.  Did he go away?" 

She nodded.  Her voice barely a whisper, "He just disappeared.  Just
like before." 

Pushing his cup aside, Mulder reached across the table and took her
hands in his. "Do you want me to stay the night?"  She shook her head. 
She knew the offer was made out of concern but having him here all
night would be too much to deal with. 

"No, I'll be okay."  She looked up at him, seeing nothing but concern
in his eyes.  She smiled.  "Really, I'm fine."  You certainly are
fine, he thought. 

He got up then and picked up the things he had come back for.  At the
door, he turned to her once more.  "Are you sure you're okay?" 

"I'm fine, Mulder.  Really." 

"Um... Scully?" 

"Yes?" 

"You are beautiful, you know that?" 

"Good night, Mulder."  She closed the door quietly behind him.  This
time she made sure she locked it. 


Tuesday, February 18th, 7:00 a.m. 

Scully had gone to bed naked again.  She got up and put on her robe. 
The temperature outside had gone back to winter and she was chilly. 
She went to the kitchen to put the coffee on and returned to the
bedroom to dress while it brewed.  She briefly wondered why she had
even gotten up when she didn't have to go to work. The prospect of a
whole day alone was a little daunting.  Funny, just three days ago she
was pleading for some time alone.  This might be a good time to get
caught up on her e-mail.  She was dismayed to see that there were 96
messages waiting.  She guessed it had been a while since she last
checked it. 

More than half of the messages were deleted without reply.  She didn't
quite know how she ended up on all these mailing lists.  Refilling her
empty cup, she settled in to deal with the ones she had to respond to. 
Most of them required very little thought and some of them were saved
to read later.  Only 9 of them were actual correspondence.  When she
finally finished answering them all, she was surprised to find it was
almost 9:00.  No wonder she was hungry.  With a groan, she rose from
her chair.  Half way to the kitchen she heard a knock at the door. 
She detoured in that direction. 

She opened the door to find a short, slightly stocky, freckled man
standing there. 

"Yes?" 

"Dana Scully?"  She recognized the voice.  The face and body were
different, but the voice was definitely the same. 

"Franklin?" she said in a whisper. 

"It's me, Dana.  In the flesh, so to speak.  I really need to talk to
you." 

He had mad no effort to step through the door and she didn't invite
him to.  "Talk about what?" 

"About me, and what I do.  And about you, and how I can make it up to
you." 

Her countenance was not encouraging but Franklin pressed on.  "Dana,
you know I can come in whenever I want when I'm in my .....other form. 
But this time it's the real me, the mortal me, and I won't, unless you
let me.  I really need to talk to you and I think you will want to
hear this." 

Without fully examining her reasons, she stepped back and waved him in
the door. "I was just about to have breakfast, do you want some?" 

"Thanks, I've already had breakfast, but I'd have some coffee, if
that's okay."  He seemed so timid compared to the Franklin she had
experienced already. "Just so you know, I am not being Cupid right
now.  I am not subject to the same rules.  Please don't take your
clothes off." 

Scully laughed out loud.  This was getting more and more ridiculous
all the time. "Thanks for the warning.  I'll be sure to keep them on." 
She placed his coffee in front of him and sat down across from him. 
She was still pretty unsure of what was happening but when he picked
up his cup she was pretty sure he was real.  That, at least, was an
improvement.  "Okay, now what is it you have to tell me that I need to
hear?" 

"Just one more thing, before I start.  Most of what I tell you now,
you will not remember later.  After I'm done here, you won't remember
any of this, except maybe bits and pieces, as a vague sort of dream. 
It's the only way to make this work." 

Taking a deep breath and blowing it out forcefully, Franklin began. 
"My name is Franklin Rosenberg.  I am a real live person with a real
life.  I have a wife her name is Eleanor and I love her dearly and two
sons, Devon and Quentin, whom I adore.  I have a business that I do
mostly over the internet, which leaves me free to travel around on my
other job."  He was encouraged by the attentiveness with which she was
listening. He went on. 

"Five years ago, my father passed along to me the essence of Cupid.  I
know this is all very difficult to grasp.  I am not trying to test
your faith. You believe in one God and so do I.  It's just that I call
him Zeus.  It's the same guy.  Eros is his offspring and his
representative.  Sort of like an angel, I guess.  Eros is my boss.  He
is immortal.  Many generations ago, the so-called lesser gods
although, no one really thinks of them as gods any more, more like
God's messengers discovered that they were not very in-tune with
current trends and customs.  They were so isolated they were just out
of touch with the real world.  That's why they opted for mortality. 
Well, that and they like to have babies and it was getting pretty
crowded.  It was Eros' choice to maintain the essence of Cupid and
Aphrodite.  He felt that they could serve a valuable purpose.  And we
do." Scully was leaning on the table, her chin resting on her hands. 
She still had not spoken. 

"Every year, on Valentine's Day, we begin a project.  We check out
subjects for several months first.  Eros usually gives us a list of
about 20 and we narrow it down.  Our goal is to improve the life of
the subject by helping them to give and accept love."  He paused when
he saw Scully's eyebrows knit.  "Are you still following me?"  She
nodded. 

"The whole myth about Cupid making someone love someone else is just
that, a myth.  I can't make you love anyone.  I can't create feelings
in you.  All I can do is help you recognize and, hopefully, accept the
feelings you already have.  I can't direct them at anyone in
particular, you have to make your own choice." 

"So now what?"  She had to shut down half of her mind to take any of
this seriously.  She was willing to do that if it would mean an end to
this. 

"I'd like to give you a little demonstration."  She immediately drew
back.  He could see her guard go up.  "It's nothing frightening,
nothing permanent, I promise.  Just a little test to show you that I'm
telling the truth.  I promise you, it will not make you uncomfortable. 
Please?" 

"What do you want to do?" 

"Just let me touch your hand."  He looked so sincere, so unsure of
himself.  Not at all like the Franklin she had met before.  She
couldn't bring herself to call him Cupid. 

"Dana, I know I don't look the way you I did before.  This is what
Franklin looks like."  He began to change before her eyes.  In
seconds, he looked just like he had when she first saw him.  She gaped
at him.  "This is what Cupid looks like."  With a smile, he said "Face
it, who would take Cupid seriously if he looked like this?" 
Instantly, mortal Franklin was back.  "Please, Dana, just trust me for
a minute." 

She reached tentatively across the table.  Franklin reached out and
gently took her hand in his.  Warmth flooded her.  Still holding her
hand, he said quietly "Close your eyes for a minute and just feel what
you feel."  She closed her eyes.  Why did she have such trust for this
stranger?  "What do you feel, Dana?" 

Quietly, almost involuntarily, she said "I feel warm.  And safe. 
And....and...soft." 

"Say his name, Dana.  Think about him and say his name." 

"Mulder."  She smiled, then.  Tears came next.  She pulled her hand
away from his and opened her eyes.  Cupid sat across from her,
smiling. 

"Why are you crying, Dana?"  She couldn't take her eyes off of his
face. 
 His magical eyes, his dimples. 

"I don't know" barely a whisper.  Tears were still trickling down her
cheeks.  She didn't wipe them away. 

"You have just had your first unedited experience with loving him. 
Every time your heart starts to feel love, your mind shuts it down." 
His voice was soft and soothing.  Her tears gradually stopped.  "You
have to learn to listen to your heart, Dana.  That's what I'm here
for.  To give your heart the strength to override the messages your
mind is sending it.  Messages that say it won't work, it's too
complicated, it's too risky, it's not appropriate. You have been
sending these messages for such a long time that your heart has
started to believe them.  I'm here to help you listen to your heart." 

Her head was reeling.  "Why?" was all she could think of to say.  "Why
me?" 

He smiled.  "Because you are a very special person, Dana.  You are a
good person and you deserve to have what your heart wants most.  A
loving relationship.  Your work is important to you and you are very
dedicated to your career, but sometimes you feel unfulfilled. 
Sometimes you feel lonely.  You don't have to feel that way.  Life has
so much more to offer you.  Let your heart speak for you, let yourself
feel what you feel.  I'll help you Dana, when the situation calls for
it.  I'll be around when you need me." 

Franklin got up from the table then.  Leaving her deep in thought at
the table, he quietly let himself out.  The closing of the door
brought her out of her reverie.  Shaking her head in an effort to
clear it, she rose and poured the last of the coffee into her cup. She
drank it standing at the sink, staring at empty space. 


Tuesday, February 17th, 2:15 p.m. 

She couldn't, for the life of her, imagine where the time had gone. 
She thought back and remembered Franklin, that other Franklin, sitting
at her table. 
 She didn't remember him leaving.  She barely remembered any of what
he said.  She had finished off the coffee and made more.  It was
unlike her to drink coffee all day, but it seemed she had finished off
another pot.  She should switch to decaf.  She had tidied up the
kitchen and had gathered some laundry to do.  The basket was still
sitting on the floor by the door.  What she had done with the rest of
the day until now was a blur. Perhaps taking these two days off was a
good idea after all. 

She picked up the laundry basket and put it back down.  Without
stopping to examine her motives, she picked up the phone and called
the office.  Mulder answered on the first ring. 

"Hi, you busy?" she said after his gruff greeting. 

His voice betrayed the pleasure he felt on hearing hers.  "Hey,
Scully, I'm leaving in a few minutes for a meeting.  What's up?" 

"Oh, nothing, just thought I'd check in."  She wasn't about to tell
him over the phone what she had experienced.  She wasn't sure if she
even knew what she had experienced.  She doubted that she would tell
him at all.  Snapping back to reality, she realized Mulder was
talking. 

"....early today." 

"What, I'm sorry, something distracted me, what was that?" 

Mulder was instantly concerned, searching for any sign of distress in
her voice.  "Scully?  You okay?" 

A tremendous feeling of wellness came over her.  All was right with
the world once again.  "Yes, Mulder, I'm okay.  The TV was on and it
distracted me for a minute, that's all.  What was it you said?" 

"I said" he repeated with exaggerated clarity, "that I thought I might
come over after work, since I will probably be able to get away early
today." 

She felt happy out of all proportion to his words.  "That would be
great.  I'll make dinner."  How domestic of you, Scully, cooking two
days in a row, she thought. 

"Let's eat out tonight, my treat.  You get dolled up and we'll go
somewhere special." 

Special.  The word had a totally different meaning for him than it had
for her.  "You mean not McDonald's?" 

"Just be ready, Scully.  I'll be there by 6:00.  I gotta run, see you
at six." 

Scully held the phone for a moment after he had hung up.  The smile
that appeared when she had heard his voice slowly faded as she
listened to the dial tone.  A single tear slipped down her cheek.  "I
love you" she whispered, putting the phone down.  She picked up her
laundry and headed to the laundry room, one floor down. 

Mulder hung up the phone.  He stood with his hand on it for a moment,
as if he could maintain the connection a little longer.  Shrugging off
the feeling, he picked it up again.  Pulling a business card from his
pocket, he dialed the number on it. 

"Senator's" a mechanical voice sounded in his ear. 

"Richard Wardell, please.  Fox Mulder calling." 

"One moment, please." 

The next voice he heard was that of the proprietor of the most
exclusive restaurant in Washington.  "Hey, Mulder!  Good to hear from
you. How have you been?" 

"Not bad, Richard, not bad at all.  I called to ask you a favour, if
that's okay." 

"What can I do for you?  You name it, it's yours!"  His voice was
hearty.  He was genuinely glad to be able to do something for Mulder. 

"Well, I have kind of a date tonight...." 

"Kind of a date?" Richard laughed.  "You mean someone you want to
impress so maybe you'll get a second date?" 

Mulder laughed with him.  He liked this guy.  "Something like that. 
Really, it's just a good friend who's been having a rough time lately
and I want to do something special for her." 

"Name it, buddy." 

"I know you're booked up weeks in advance, but I hoped you could get
me a table for tonight." 

"Not a problem.  To tell you the truth, we always save a couple of
tables just in case.  You know, in case the President shows up."  That
had been a standing joke with them, ever since the night someone
reserved the whole dining room in the President's name.  Richard had
called Mulder and Mulder had used his slim connections to find out
that the President, of course, knew nothing about it.  That was the
second time he had saved Richard's butt.  "Tell you what" Richard
continued, "You give me the address and I'll send a car around to pick
you both up."  Mulder began to object.  "Don't worry, I'll make sure
it takes you home again, so you can get loaded if you want." 

"That would be great, Richard.  I really appreciate it." 

"No problem.  I owe you big time, buddy.  I'll even spring for the
dinner." 

"Then I'll owe you."  Mulder chuckled.  He could hardly believe this
guy was for real. 

"No way, Mulder."  Richard was more serious, now.  "You saved me
thousands, the least I can do is pop for a couple hundred.  Dinner's
on me.  What time?" 

"How does 7:30 sound?" 

"You got it.  Just ask for me at the door and I'll take care of
everything."  Mulder knew he would do just that.  Of all the people he
wouldn't dare count on, Richard Wardell was one that he would.  This
having friends thing might turn out to be okay after all. 

Hanging up the phone again, he realized that he was late for his 3:00
meeting.  He got as far as the door when the phone rang again.  Damn. 
Busted.  He answered with "I'm on my way." 

Skinner's only reply was "Good."  He shook his head.  One thing you
could count on in this business.  Mulder would always be late. 


Tuesday, February 17th, 3:50 p.m. 

Mulder found that he had nothing to do.  Nothing except the scud work
he hated. The case was virtually wrapped up, just a few loose ends
that he would tie up tomorrow. He was free for the rest of the day. 
And still daylight, too.  Amazing. 
 An idea occurred to him.  With determination he headed to the main
switchboard. 

Entering the room, he saw a dozen people at desks and computer
stations. 
 None of them was Holly.  So much for that idea.  As he turned to
leave, a young woman called out from her desk.  "Can I help you,
Agent?" 

He approached her.  "I was looking for Holly, is she here?" 

"Actually, I think she just left.  I don't think she'll have left the
building yet." 

"Could you page her for me?" 

The young woman smiled.  "No need to" she said, nodding toward the
door. 
 Mulder turned to see Holly coming into the room.  He rushed up to
her. 

"Holly, I'm glad I caught you, I need your help with something." 

"Sure, Agent Mulder, what can I do for you?"  Like more than half of
the women she knew at the Bureau, Holly had a crush on Mulder.  There
were many nights that thoughts of him helped her sleep, and more that
they kept her awake.  She was more than happy to help him with
anything he asked. 

He drew her aside, speaking quietly.  "Agent Scully hasn't been
feeling very well for the last few days.  I wanted to get her
something nice and, to be honest, I haven't got a clue.  I was hoping
you could help me pick something out." 

"Well, I have to be somewhere by 6:00 but, sure, I can help you out." 
Retrieving her purse from her desk, she followed him out the door.

After a short discussion in the car, Mulder drove to Benjamin's.  He
wanted to get Scully something glamorous to wear tonight, although he
was reluctant to put it in those words to Holly.  He settled for a
lie.  Telling her that Scully had been complaining she had nothing
nice to wear since she'd lost weight, he thought a nice dress would
cheer her up. To his surprise, Holly agreed that it was a good choice. 

Holly was a very efficient shopper.  Mulder was very glad of that,
because he was intimidated by the whole environment of the store. 
Glamour was their focus and it took no time at all to choose a dress. 
It was emerald green silk, slinky without being sleazy, with short
flared sleeves and a plunging neckline.  Remembering his view of her
the other night, it was the neckline that got his attention. 

Holly couldn't help noticing that he handed over his charge card
without even looking at the price tag.  Just friends.  Right.  She
smiled.  She wished she had friends like that.  He might be surprised
when he gets his bill, she thought to herself, knowing that the dress
was more than $100. 

Excited now, Mulder took her hand and led her to the jewelry counter. 
Holly rolled her eyes and drew him away from the hovering sales clerk. 
"You probably don't want to buy jewelry here.  They don't have
anything under $1000 in here." 

Now Mulder was flustered.  "But what if she doesn't have anything to
wear with it? I really want to do this right."  Holly looked at her
watch.  There was still time. 

"Let's go to Pandora's" she said with conviction.  "It's just down the
street.  They'll have something." 

Once again, Holly's skill came to the fore.  She chose an emerald and
diamond necklace and matching earrings, holding them out for his
approval.  He leaned closer and whispered "Can I afford these?" 

Holly smiled and whispered back "They're not real.  They're really
good fakes, though.  No one would be able to tell the difference." 

At the cash register, the clerk offered them a velvet box to put the
set in.  "That will be $84.53, please.  Cash or charge?"  Mulder
handed over his charge card again.  Probably a good thing he wasn't
going to have to pay for dinner.  If he stretched this card any
further, it just might snap on him. 

Walking back to the car, he asked Holly where he could drop her off. 
"Oh that's okay, Agent Mulder.  I was going to take a cab from work,
I'll just take a cab from here instead."  She halted his objection
before he could voice it.  "Really, it's fine." 

"If you're sure."  At her affirmative nod, he kissed her cheek. 
"Thanks, Holly.  I really appreciate this." 

He waved as he drove away.  Holly sighed.  Dana sure was a lucky lady. 
Mulder checked his clock.  It was 5:30.  He would never get to
Scully's by 6:00.  He pulled his phone out of his breast pocket. 
"Hey, Scully, it's me." 

"Hey, Mulder, how late are you going to be?" 

"Ha ha.  You probably think you're funny."  He wasn't offended.  He
was late, much as usual. 

"Well, isn't that why you're calling, to tell me you're going to be
late?" 

"See, Scully, I knew you could read my mind."  He sincerely hoped not. 

"How late?" 

"Well, let's just say, don't get dressed yet."  Man, he was brilliant. 
Now he wouldn't have to deal with the 'I'm already dressed' scenario. 
When you're good, you're good.  "I promise I'll be there by seven." 

"Okay, Mulder.  I'll be ready."  Good, now she had an extra hour to
find something to wear.  She looked through her closet.  She just
wasn't equipped for 'special' places, she thought with dismay.  She
was at a disadvantage, not knowing where they were going.  Men had it
so easy.  As long as they wore a tie, it didn't matter what else they
wore.  She chose a sleeveless black sheath.  Not entirely happy with
the choice, it was still the best she could do.  She really needed to
get a decent dress. 

Only a few blocks from his apartment, Mulder decided he had time to
detour.  As long as he was there by 6:30, he was sure she wouldn't be
ready yet.  He had about 15 minutes to spare.  He could do it in 15
minutes. 

He raced down the hall to his door and burst inside like the devil was
after him.  He knew he had it here somewhere.  Scully had given him a
jacket for his birthday last year and he had kept the gift bag she
brought it in.  He was in luck, it was right on the shelf in the
closet.  Bonus, it still had the tissue paper inside.  He hoped she
didn't recognize it.  Bag in hand, he started to close the closet door
when something caught his eye. Brilliant Idea number two.  He stripped
down to his shorts and changed into the tuxedo. He didn't even try to
tie the bow tie, just draped it around his neck. He would get Scully
to tie it for him.  He sure hoped he wasn't overdoing it.  As an
afterthought, he sprayed a little cologne over himself.  A quick brush
through his hair and he was out the door with 3 minutes to spare. 

Rushing back to the car, he put the dress box into the bag, covered it
with the tissue paper.  He put the jewelry case in his inside pocket. 
Ready. Man, he felt like a kid going to the prom.  With a squeal of
tires, he was on his way to Scully's. 


Tuesday, February 17th, 6:30 p.m. 

Scully thought she heard something over the sound of the hair dryer. 
She turned it off and listened.  It was a knock on the door.  Securing
her robe around her, she went to answer it. 

In the initial shock of seeing him so early, she almost missed the
shock of seeing him dressed in a tux.  She groaned inwardly.  Her
dress wasn't exactly suitable for any place that would require him to
wear a tux.  She looked admiringly at him as she closed the door
behind him. 

"You're not dressed yet." 

"Well, you're half an hour early."  She started toward the bedroom to
dress. 

"Scully, wait."  She stopped without turning around.  "I brought you
something." 

She walked slowly back to where he had put the gift on the table.  She
was not going to tell him she recognized the bag.  With a smile, she
looked up at him.  He was fidgeting like a boy on his first date. 
"What is it?" 

"Open it and see."  Whatever it was, he was still fidgeting over it. 
No matter what it was, she would have to tell him she loved it.  She
pulled the box out of the bag, gingerly opened the lid. 

Her jaw dropped as she lifted the dress from the box.  "Mulder!  It is
beautiful!  Oh my God!  Why?  It's fabulous!  Thank you!"  She threw
her arms around his neck and held him tightly for a moment.  "Why
would you do something like this?" 

"Because you are beautiful and fabulous and you deserve it."  He
touched his lips to her forehead.  "Now go get dressed, we have
reservations." 

In less than 20 minutes, she was back.  It was Mulder's turn to gape. 
Swallowing audibly as she spun around to show him, he managed to find
his voice as she came around to face him.  "You are gorgeous!"  Her
tiny blush and dazzling smile made it all worth while.  Silently he
thanked Holly again. 

Trying not to hyperventilate, he managed to say "Oh, wait, I have
something else for you."  He drew the velvet box out of his pocket and
held it out to her.  She took it with a trembling hand. 

"Mulder?  What are you doing?"  She opened the box. 

"Hopefully, making you happy" he said.  Had he gone too far? 

"Oh, Mulder!"  Her eyes glistened with tears as she looked up at him. 
His heart lurched.  That look was worth a thousand necklaces, a
million dresses. God, he loved her. 

"Don't cry now.  We don't have time for you to do your makeup again." 
She turned her back to him so he could do the necklace up.  She
replaced the earrings she had been wearing.  Turning back to him, she
stroked his cheek. 

"Thank you" was all she said.  I love you was what she wanted to say. 
He stood still while she tied his tie. 

He checked his watch.  The car would be here any minute.  One more
surprise to go.  He really hoped he was not overdoing it.  "Ready to
go?"  He fetched her coat from the closet, held it for her. 

On the way out the door, she looked down, then up at him.  "I feel so
glamorous" 

"You are, Scully.  You surely are." 

They stepped out the front door.  A white limousine idled at the curb. 
The driver got out and came around the car.  "Mr Mulder?"  At Mulder's
nod, he opened the back door for them.  Scully was speechless.  Both
Mulder and the driver pretended not to notice her dumbfounded look. 
She wondered briefly if Mulder had won a lottery. 

Senator's was the finest restaurant in the state.  She had never been
there. Richard greeted them at the door and showed them to their
table.  A bottle of champagne was chilling beside the table.  Mulder
seemed perfectly at ease.  She felt a little out of her league.  "I
feel like a princess" she said as Richard held her chair for her. 

"You look like one, too." Mulder responded. 

It was the best dinner she had ever had, the best evening she had ever
had.

On the way home, Mulder explained how he had met Richard.  Working on
a case, he had to interview a witness who worked at Senator's. 
Waiting for the man to finish his shift, he just happened to be there
when two armed men tried to rob the place.  Catching them by surprise,
Mulder took them both down.  Richard was very grateful.  In the
intervening years, they had become friends of a sort.  He explained
that Richard had done him a favour by getting them a table tonight. 
He felt compelled to tell her that Richard had also provided the car. 

Arriving back at Scully's building, the driver again opened the door
for them, wishing them a good night with a tip of his hat.  They were
both reluctant to let this magical evening end.  Inside her apartment,
she thanked him again. 

"I had a wonderful time, Mulder."  Taking both of his hands in hers,
she added "I don't know what I did to deserve this but thank you." 
They stood looking at each other until the closeness became
uncomfortable.  Scully stepped away, releasing one hand and leading
him by the other into the living room.  They sat and talked for a
while before Mulder suggested that it was time for him to leave. 

"You've had a lot to drink tonight, Mulder.  Maybe you should just
spend the night."  He knew that she was not being suggestive.  He
wished she was. 

He cleared his throat before saying "Truthfully, Scully, I don't think
that's a good idea.  I'll take a cab.  I'll come back tomorrow for my
car." 

She understood perfectly.  She doubted she would have gotten any sleep
with him there.  Hugging him once again, she said quietly "I don't
think I've ever had a nicer evening.  Thank you."  She wanted so much
to kiss him just then.  She walked to the closet to get his coat. 

Taking his coat, his hand touched hers and he couldn't take it any
more. 
 He reached out and cupped her chin in his fingers.  With tremendous
restraint, he just touched his lips to hers softly.  Looking into her
eyes, he whispered "Good night, Scully" 

"Good night, Mulder" she whispered back, smiling. 


Tuesday, February 17th, 11:30 p.m. 

Franklin and Felicity waited patiently for Dana to fall asleep.  When
the sound of her breathing indicated that she had, they approached the
bed.  Franklin leaned over her, laying his hand on her shoulder.  Dana
snuggled deeper into the covers. In less than a minute, she was
smiling in her sleep.  His other hand gently touched her forehead. 
She dreamed of walking through a park, lying on the beach, sitting
quietly on a couch.  She dreamed of Mulder. 

"Okay, Felicity.  Gently, now, not too much all at once.  Franklin
took her hand and placed it lightly on Dana's forehead where his had
been.  Dana shifted in her sleep. Felicity smiled.  Dana dreamed.  She
dreamed of his arms around her, his lips touching her, his hands
exploring her body.  She sighed.  Felicity stroked her hair.  She
dreamed of Mulder making love to her.  She felt him inside her, moving
slowly over her, his lips caressing her face.  She rolled over to lie
on her back.  Of its own accord, her hand stole between her legs. 
Franklin and Felicity disappeared. 


Wednesday, February 18th, 8:00 a.m. 

Scully awoke still smiling.  She was happier than she had been in a
long time.  She lay in her bed, looking at the sunlight streaming
through the window, hands behind her head.  Another day off, and she
planned to make maximum use of it.  As she sat up, her glance fell on
the green dress draped over the back of her chair.  She rose and
lifted it, held it to her face for a moment before carefully hanging
it in the closet.  What a wonderful surprise it had been.  After all
this time, he could still surprise her.  Impulsively, she picked up
the phone on her night table. 

"Mulder" came the terse reply. 

"Hi" she said quietly.  She was already a little embarrassed at having
called with nothing in particular to say. 

"Hi yourself" he said happily.  "Did you sleep well?" 

Remembering, more clearly than usual, her dreams, she replied "Very
well.  And you?"  She didn't hear the sultriness that had entered her
voice.  Mulder did. 

"Did you dream of me, Scully" 

With no ability to stop herself, she answered "Yes I did.  And
Mulder?" 

"Yes, Scully?"  His body was beginning to react to the huskiness in
her voice. 

"You were very, very good." 

Mulder was speechless.  She heard his sharp intake of breath and she
smiled.  What had made her say that?  Her perverse demon?  She
suspected someone else entirely. Mulder finally found his voice, if
not his composure.  "Um... Scully?" 

"Yes Mulder?"  Her voice was lilting, teasing him.  Very
un-Scully-like. 

"Why did you call?  Not that I don't want to hear from you, but...." 

"I just wanted to say good morning.  I wanted to tell you what a
wonderful time I had last night" even after you left, she thought.  "I
just wanted to thank you again." 

Mulder smiled now, back in control.  "You're welcome, Scully.  I had a
wonderful time too.  And Scully?" 

"Yes Mulder?" 

"You were fantastic!"  Her sudden laughter surprised and pleased him. 

"Touche!"  She was still chuckling. 

"I really wanted to hear your voice, too, Scully" he said quietly. 
"You have a good day.  I'll have this case wrapped up today and I
expect you bright and early tomorrow morning."  His voice and manner
had returned to normal. 

Only a little embarrassed that he had realized her motivation in
calling, she replied "I'll be there."  Her voice, too, had returned to
normal.  "Dinner tonight?" 

"Wouldn't miss it" he replied without hesitation. 

As she hung up the phone she became aware of the fact that they never
said 'goodbye'.  They often said 'good night', or 'see you later' or a
variety of other, similar things but they never said 'goodbye'.  She
hoped they never would. 

Twenty minutes later, dressed and ready to face the day, still
smiling, she went to the kitchen to find Franklin sitting at the
table. 

"Good morning, Franklin" she said airily.  She proceeded to make
coffee, humming to herself. 

Franklin was pleasantly surprised at the change in attitude.  "Good
Morning Dana. It's good to see you again." 

Putting bread in the toaster, she sat at the table with her coffee. 
She looked directly at Franklin.  He was as attractive as ever, his
eyes as compelling as ever and his dimples just as cute.  She noticed
that he had less power to mesmerize her today.  She could look at him
and talk to him like any other incredibly gorgeous man she might have
at her table.  "It's good to see you too, Franklin."  She really meant
it.  "And thank you for a wonderful evening yesterday."  The toast
popped and she rose to butter it. 

To her back, he said "I had nothing to do with that, Dana."  She
stopped.  Time stopped.  She turned slowly to look at him.  He looked
back at her. "I'm not lying to you, Dana.  I'm not allowed to lie to
you.  That was entirely you and him.  I wasn't there." 

"But....you mean...."  Scully found herself unable to articulate what
she meant. She had intended to tell him that she had welcomed his
influence last night.  If it wasn't his influence.... 

"You are learning to let yourself feel, Dana.  You are learning to
listen to your heart. It feels good, doesn't it?" 

Scully turned thoughtfully back to her toast, spreading butter by
rote. It did feel good, she couldn't deny that.  The realization that
she could have these feelings and be comfortable with them was a minor
epiphany.  She thought she might be willing to explore this a little. 
Just a little.  She sat at the table once again, still introspective. 

"You know, that's not much of a breakfast."  The voice startled her. 
She had forgotten he was there. 

She looked down at the toast in front of her, looked from there to her
coffee. "You're absolutely right.  Let's go out for breakfast." 

Franklin laughed.  "I can't actually eat like this."  An idea occurred
to him.  "If you go to the Arlington Astoria hotel, I can meet you
there 'in the flesh'. Then you wouldn't have to sit there talking to
yourself."  His grin was contagious.  She grinned back. 

"No offense, Franklin, but I'd rather be looking at you than at the
'real' Franklin." 

He chuckled.  "No offense taken.  Lucky for me, this is who my wife
sees when she looks at me any time." 

"Lucky for her, too."  She was teasing him now.  She felt more
relaxed, happier than she had felt in a long time.  Even the knowledge
that she was conversing with someone no one else could see hardly
fazed her.  A sudden certainty descended on her conscious mind.  She
believed it.  She was comfortable with Franklin because she had fully
accepted all that he had told her.  She no longer suspected she was
losing her mind.  She didn't want to examine that any further. 

"Dana, you are evading the issue of breakfast.  Breakfast is the most
important meal of the day.  You need to eat more than toast." 

"Franklin, I'm a doctor, I know all about it.  I'm still stuffed from
last night's dinner, that's all."  She stood, hands on hips, looking
for all the world like a scolding parent.  He stood then, and imitated
her stance and look. 

Imitating her tone of voice, too, he retorted "Dana, I'm omnipotent
and I know better.  Eat breakfast.  Now, young lady!"  They both
laughed and she gave in, raising her hands in resignation. 

Rummaging in the fridge, she came up with a tub of yoghurt and a
peach. "Will this do, your highness?"  At his frown, she pleaded
"You're not going to make me eat eggs or something, are you?"  He
continued to frown and she reached back into the fridge.  "How about
some cheese?  Will you settle for cheese?"  Franklin nodded, playing
the part of the parent to the hilt. 

Slicing the cheese and peeling the peach, Scully discovered she was
actually hungry.  They sat at the table, chatting amiably while she
ate. Finally, Franklin said that he had to leave. 

"I can't stay too long at one time, Dana.  I'll be back though, when
you need me."  He reached out his hand.  She didn't hesitate to put
her hand in his. "Feel what you feel, Dana.  Listen to your heart." 
Then he was gone.  She was surprised to find it was after 10:00. 
Clearing away her breakfast dishes, she contemplated doing the kind of
heavy- duty housework she so rarely had time to do.  Thinking better
of it, she decided she would do some shopping.  Maybe her mom would
like to go with her.  She reached for the phone. It rang before she
could pick it up. 

"Hi dear, it's Mom." 

"Boy, you must be psychic."  Dana smiled.  "I was just about to call
you." 

"Well, I called you at work and Fox said you were taking a couple of
days off.  Is everything okay?" 

"Everything is great, Mom.  I was just a little stressed and needed a
couple of days. I'm going back to work tomorrow."  It occurred to her
then that her mother almost never called her at work.  "Is everything
alright, Mom?  Why did you call?" 

It was her mother's turn to smile.  "I called to tell you that I'm
going to be in town for the afternoon and to see if you would have
time to meet me for lunch." 

"Great!  I was going to ask you if you wanted to do some shopping
today." 

They discussed when and where to meet and hung up the phone, each
relieved to find that all was well with the other. 


Wednesday, February 19th, 11:00 a.m. 


Franklin entered the room with confidence.  The Old Man was bound to
be pleased with his progress.  Felicity trailed behind him, a little
less anxious than at the last meeting but not entirely sure that
Franklin's confidence was justified. 

Waving them to their customary seats, Eros wasted no time on small
talk. 
 "I have read your report and I am very pleased with your progress. 
Your plan was clearly a good one, your success thus far proves that. 
I am impressed with your understanding of your subject.  You have read
her very well and brought her along very nicely." 

"Thank you, sir."  Franklin beamed. 

"Felicity" he said, his voice a little more stern than he intended. 
She started. 

"Yes, sir?"  Her voice was barely above a whisper. 

"Don't be concerned, my dear.  You have done well.  Your first couple
of attempts fared badly but you have learned quickly and you have
performed admirably."  Her relief was evident.  "You still have some
learning to do but I am pleased with your progress to date, also." 

After just a few seconds silence, Franklin said "Sir?" 

The shaggy head turned, Mediterranean blue eyes focused on him.  "Yes,
son?" 

"It sounds like there's a 'but' coming here.  Is there a problem?" 

The Old Man grinned, dimples appearing where there had been only lines
a moment ago.  "Not exactly a problem, son.  Just a situation that you
should be aware of." 

"A situation, sir?" 

"This subject is a very strong-willed person, as you have discovered. 
I have paid her a visit myself."  Franklin and Felicity looked at each
other with raised eyebrows.  The Old man hadn't visited anyone himself
in generations.  "Don't worry, I did nothing to interfere with your
project.  This woman interests me and I wanted to see her for myself.
I am bound to be curious about a person who is so worthy of your
attention and yet who rejects it so outrightly." 

"And you found something that we should know about?" 

"Yes.  I found that, although she will benefit greatly from the
freedom you will provide her, she will probably never act on it on her
own.  In fact, she may be better off not acting on the feelings you
are awakening in her." 

"Better off, how?"  Felicity was shocked.  She couldn't imagine anyone
being better off without sex.  Eros chuckled again.  He rather agreed
with her, although he was not inclined to tell her that. 

"Better off in that the man she loves is not well-equipped to handle
the stress of a lifetime commitment and nothing less would satisfy
her."  At Franklin's incredulous look, he continued.  "Don't get me
wrong, he loves her totally, you are right about that.  You are also
right that he would voluntarily give up is solitude for her without
hesitation.  But that may not be the best choice in this case.  Their
commitment to each other is very strong and will very likely last
throughout their lives.  However, if the nature of that commitment
should change, I don't think we could count on him to be able to
sustain it. Furthermore, their working relationship would be seriously
jeopardized." 

Franklin was disconcerted with this observation.  It threw his whole
plan into question.  "What would you suggest, sir?"  Hoping against
hope that his suggestion would not be to abort the project. 

"I would suggest that you adjust your priorities in this case.  Change
your focus just a little."  Knowing what Franklin was concerned about
and seeing the unabashed fear on Felicity's face, he hastened to
reassure them.  "I'm not suggesting you abort the project, only that
you consider a new goal."  They both waited, openly relieved, for him
to continue.  "I suggest that you aim for a relationship that will
appear, to the casual observer, to be no different than they currently
enjoy, but that will be, privately, a much more rewarding and
fulfilling one." 

Felicity was puzzled.  She looked over at Franklin to see a look of
understanding on his face.  "As you so aptly reminded me at our first
meeting, Franklin, this is 1997.  They are both adults, they are both
single.  There is nothing at all untoward about them expressing their
feelings for each other without necessarily making a lifetime
commitment to that expression."  Felicity was really lost, now. 

"I'm sorry, sir, but I really don't understand what you're saying." 

"Franklin does" the old man said with a smile.  His look asked
Franklin to elaborate. 

"An occasional tryst, Felicity."  He turned to the Old Man. 
"Brilliant, sir, absolutely brilliant.  And you are so right about
them.  I didn't see it myself but, now that you mention it, it makes
so much sense!" 

Franklin was encouraged by this new perspective.  Leading Felicity out
of the room, he began to explore the possibilities this information
could lead to. 


Wednesday, February 19th, 2:00 p.m. 

Mulder sat at his desk, waiting.  The only thing between this office
and a free afternoon was a meeting with Skinner.  He had submitted his
report on the case.  To him it seemed pretty cut-and-dried.  A murder
had occurred 62 years ago. The perpetrator had been discovered and
posthumously found guilty.  The victim had been given a decent burial
and a ghost had been laid to rest.  The discoverers of this crime had
had their basement renovated, largely at the FBI's expense, and were
content with the outcome. Case closed.  He hoped.  Now he was just
waiting for Skinner to call and ask to meet with him.  Once his report
had been accepted and filed, he was free as a bird for the rest of the
day.  He considered calling Scully.  He'd wait until after the
meeting.  Maybe they could have an early dinner and go to a movie.  He
hadn't been to a movie in a long time. 

His thoughts were interrupted by the phone.  He waited until the third
ring before answering.  It wouldn't pay to look like you're sitting
here doing nothing. 

"Mulder" he answered. 

Expecting Skinner's voice, he was a bit taken aback by a soft-spoken
woman on the other end.  "Agent Fox Mulder?" 

"Yes, speaking." 

"This is Lieutenant Gerard, N.Y.P.D. Detective Division." 

"Yes, Ma'am, how can I help you?" 

"Agent Mulder, I have a case here that seems to be right up your
alley, so to speak. I was given your name by the local Bureau office
and I hoped that you would be interested in giving us a hand with
this.  I'd like to fax you the information, if you're willing." 

"Sure, Lieutenant, fax away.  I'll look at it today and I'll give you
a call tomorrow morning." 

"Thank you, Agent Mulder, I'd appreciate any help you can give me." 
His fax machine punctuated the conversation.  It was still printing
sheet after sheet when the phone rang again.  This time it was
Skinner. 

The meeting was a mere formality.  Skinner had accepted his report
without question.  They had met only to confirm that the report on the
AD's desk was, in fact, the same report Mulder had submitted. 
Returning to his office, he gathered up the papers the fax machine had
spit out, inserted them into a blank case-file folder which he stored
in his rarely-used briefcase and headed out the door.  With any luck,
he'd get out of the building without anyone seeing him. 

On his way out, he detoured by the main switchboard office to see
Holly. 
 He told her that the dress and the jewelry had been a big hit with
Scully and thanked her again for her help.  She reiterated that she
had been happy to help and could be available again any time.  He
thought he just might take her up on that sometime.  An idea occurred
to him.  Oh boy, he was just loaded with brilliant ideas these days. 
He proposed his idea to Holly.  She agreed and he reached into his
wallet, handing over a small bundle of cash. Holly assured him it
would be enough and that she would have it for him tomorrow. 

He made it to his car without any further delay and left the parking
lot.  He would go home and review the information Lt. Gerard had sent
before he called Scully.  He had one more errand he had to run, first. 


Wednesday, February 19th, 4:00 p.m. 

Dana and Maggie sat at a table, having coffee.  They had been shopping
all day and were tired.  It had been a very long time since they had
gone shopping together.  Dana was not a browser by nature.  She was
more of the shop-only-when-you-really-have-to,
get-what-you-need-and-get-out kind of shopper.  Maggie was happy to
see her so relaxed.  It had been a long time. 

"Mom, I can hardly believe how much money I spent today."  She didn't
regret it, though.  It felt good to splurge once in a while. 

Maggie chuckled.  "I was just thinking the same thing.  I was
beginning to wonder if you were really my Dana." 

"I probably didn't need any of this stuff."  Dana said with a shake of
her head. 

"Wanting it is just as good a reason for getting it as needing it. 
I've always believed that."  Maggie said, smiling at her daughter. 
Dana was radiant. 

"You have not!"  Dana exclaimed.  "Who do you think taught me to be
so....frugal?" 

"Your father, of course!"  Maggie just managed to keep a straight face
when she said it.  Then they both burst out laughing, remembering all
the useless little things Ahab used to bring home just because 'it was
neat'.  He never came home from anywhere without bringing gifts for
Maggie and the kids.  Even when Dana was living on her own, he would
bring her silly little things when he came to visit.  She still had
every one of them.  At almost the same instant, they both noticed the
time. 

"I have to get going."  Dana spoke first.  "I invited Mulder over for
dinner and it wouldn't be very nice to not be home when he gets
there." 

"I'd better go too.  I'm having a meeting tonight and I should at
least tidy up before they get there."  Dana smiled.  Even when all
four kids were small, Maggie's house was always impeccably tidy. 
'Navy neat' they used to call it. 

They walked to Dana's car, sharing the burden of all of her packages. 
Loading everything into the car, Maggie kept one bag in her hand. 
Dana was shocked.  "You mean all of this stuff is mine?  Boy, I did
get carried away, didn't I?" 

Hugging her daughter tightly, Maggie said "We'll have to do this
again. I've had a great day." 

"Me too, Mom."  Dana climbed into her car and drove off with a wave. 
She hoped Mulder wasn't ticked off.  It had been too nice a day to
ruin it with an argument.  Two great days in a row.  That didn't
happen very often. 

When she got home she discovered, much to her dismay, that she could
barely carry all the bags she had.  "If you weren't so lazy, you'd
make two trips" she muttered to herself.  She managed to get
everything inside the door and dropped it where she stood.  The
answering machine light was flashing.  Mulder, no doubt. 


Wednesday, February 19th, 5:00 p.m. 

Mulder had completed his errand.  Had, in fact, gotten quite carried
away with it. He had reviewed the information sent by Lt. Gerard.  She
was right, it seemed right up his alley.  He would run it by Skinner
in the morning and expected to be on a plane by mid-afternoon.  That
might pose a bit of a problem, timing-wise.  He placed a call to
Frohike.  Problem solved.  Now he would just have to make sure he
could arrange that they come home on Sunday.  He was surprised at how
much time had gone by and reached for the phone to call Scully.  He
left a message on her machine. 

"Hey, Scully, it's me, just checking to see if we're still on for
dinner.  Give me a call when you get in." 

He hoped she didn't decide to take a few more days off when he told
her the case was in New York.  She hated New York. 

Scully called back just minutes after he had hung up. 

"Hey, Mulder.  Sorry I missed your call.  I was out." 

"You didn't miss it by much, I just hung up the phone.  Where've you
been?  We still on for dinner?" 

"Shopping with my mom, and yes, if you're willing to settle for pot
luck.  I have no idea what I have to eat."  She couldn't resist adding
"I have lots of cottage cheese and yoghurt, if you're interested." 

Mulder made a face.  "That stuff will kill you one day, Scully." 

"Stop making faces, Mulder.  That 'stuff' is good for you." 

"Not as good as chili dogs and pizza." 

"Yuck!  Just get over here, G-Man.  I'll see if I have any hot dogs." 

"On my way, G-Woman." 

With a sigh, Scully set about putting away all that she had bought. 
She put away two pairs of jeans, a pair of dress slacks, two sweaters,
three t-shirts, a sweatshirt, a dress, two blouses, a skirt, several
pairs of pantyhose, two bras, a pair of sandals, six pairs of
underwear, a camisole and a nightgown.  Her bed was littered with
clothing tags and empty bags.  She would take care of it later.  It
was a sad commentary on the state of her wardrobe that she didn't have
to make room for any of it. 

When she came to the last item, she held it up and looked thoughtfully
at it.  A white satin negligee with a lace housecoat.  Her mother
had hidden a smile when she picked it out.  No wonder.  It was hardly
her style.  She wondered what had made her buy it.  She didn't have to
wonder long.  His voice came as no surprise to her. 

"Very nice, Dana.  You are definitely making progress."  His dimpled
grin appeared as she lowered the negligee. 

"Go away, Franklin, I'm busy."  He had become such a fixture in her
world in such a short time, she wasn't even bothered by his presence
any more.  "I have to get changed before Mulder gets here." 

"Change into that.  You'll knock his socks off." 

The image of herself answering the door dressed in a floor-length
negligee made her laugh out loud.  Talk about sending out the wrong
signals!  She blew a kiss to Franklin as she unbuttoned her blouse. 
His answering wink almost disappeared with him as she stripped it off
and tossed it on the chair.  In no time at all she had changed into
her new tan slacks and a soft black sweater.  She had bought a scarf
to wear with it, to fill in the low V of the neckline.  Surveying her
image in the mirror, she elected to do without the scarf for tonight. 
"Good for you, Dana.  A little cleavage is a good thing."  The voice
came from behind her. 

"Thank you, Martha Stewart" she muttered.  Aloud she said "Shut up
Franklin." She realized then that she didn't see him in the mirror. 
She turned to see him standing beside the bed.  She looked in the
mirror again, and back to him.  "I can't see you in the mirror" she
said in awe. 

"That's because I'm not here, sweetheart." 

"Don't call me sweetheart.  Ever."  Her voice was harder than she had
intended. She smiled in apology.  "I really hate pet names." 

She left the bedroom and immediately returned to pick up the one box
she had not opened.  It contained a grey cashmere sweater she had
impulsively bought for Mulder while she was shopping. 

She was just putting the box on the table when there was a knock at
the door. Mulder barely gave her time to get it open when he charged
in.  "How would you like to go to New York, Scully?" 

Scully closed the door and turned to look at him, innocently ignoring
his unusual greeting.  "Hello, Mulder, nice to see you.  Can I get you
a drink?" 

Mulder put his briefcase flat on the table.  He turned slowly to face
her where she still stood.  Two steps put him directly in front of
her.  He put both hands on her upper arms and kissed her forehead. 
"Hi, Scully" he said gently.  "I missed you today.  Did you have a
good day?"  He smiled as he stepped away to remove his coat.  "I'm
sorry." 

"I had a lovely day.  My mother and I went shopping and I bought a
bunch of clothes."  She paused then and, pointing to the box on the
table, she added, "I got you something." 

Reaching for the box, he seemed surprised.  "You got me something? 
Why?" 

She blushed a little.  "Because I thought of you when I saw it.  I
just liked it." 

He had the box open now.  "Oh, wow!  This is great!"  Leaning over to
kiss her cheek, he said "Thanks."  She knew that his reaction was
sincere and was glad that her mother had talked her into getting it. 
He didn't need to know it was Maggie's idea. 

"So, what do we want for dinner?"  she asked. 

"Do you want to go to New York?"  he asked. 

"For dinner?" 

He chuckled.  "No, let's order pizza.  Then we can go to New York." 

"What for?  I hate New York." 

"For a case.  Interesting case, Scully.  Why don't you order the pizza
now?  It's a homicide, apparently.  Body turned up 20 years later." 
He paused in his narrative when she raised a hand.  Waiting until she
had ordered the pizza and hung up the phone, he continued where he had
left off.  "The body was found in an alley.  Turns out it's a guy who
disappeared 20 years ago." 

"So what's so unusual about that?"  She busied herself getting plates
and napkins from the cupboard. 

"He was 50 when he disappeared and the coroner estimated the corpse's
age at "late forties to early fifties." 

"So, somebody kept the body refrigerated." 

"Nope, no signs of refrigeration or other preservatives.  Not only
that, but death was fairly recent." 

They discussed the case, Scully playing devil's advocate as usual,
until the pizza arrived.  By unspoken agreement, they changed the
subject while they ate.  Standing side by side at the sink afterwards,
Mulder looked down at Scully.  "You look very nice today, by the way." 
He stroked the sleeve of her sweater lightly.  "Is this new?" 

Without looking up from the dish she was washing Scully said as
sternly as she could manage "Stop looking down my shirt, Mulder."  She
was glad she had decided not to wear the scarf. 

Mulder knew there was no use denying that he had been doing exactly
that.  "Can't help it, Scully."  With a grin, and prepared to duck and
run, he added "Now that I know what's down there."  He didn't duck and
run fast enough.  She snapped him with the dishcloth.  He grabbed for
her and she evaded him, turning to run down the hall.  She squealed as
he caught her around the middle just as she reached the bathroom door. 
He picked her up and swung her over his shoulder.  She shrieked with
laughter as he carried her back to the kitchen. 

Stopping suddenly, he put her down in front of him without letting go
of her.  Her laughter was fading to a series of hiccupping sighs. 
"God, I love that sound."  The hitch in his voice made her look up at
him. 

"What sound?" 

Suddenly serious, he cradled her face with both hands.  "You. 
Laughing. 
 I don't hear it often enough."  Her face was flushed and her eyes
still sparkled with laughter.  A man could get lost in those eyes.  He
did.  He lowered his face to hers until their lips touched.  Gently,
softly.  She reached up to meet him. 

Heat radiated from his lips, infusing her with warmth.  Suddenly, her
arms were around his neck, pulling him into her.  Her fingers tangled
in his hair. 
 The kiss deepened.  Their tongues danced to the timeless rhythm of
passion. 

Unseen by either of them, Franklin gave Felicity a thumbs-up gesture. 
They took their leave. 

Mulder broke off the kiss, still holding her tightly.  He rested his
cheek on her head, speaking into her hair.  "Oh God, Scully, I'm
sorry.  I don't know what...."  She interrupted him by pulling away
from his arms. 

Touching his cheek gently with one hand, she quipped "I should hit you
more often."  Her smile told him all he needed to know.  He walked
away from her.  With the taste of her still on his lips and the smell
of her still in his nostrils, he struggled to return to what passed
for normal in his world.  God, how he wanted her!  Down, boy, that's
just going to get you in trouble.  He opened his briefcase and pulled
out the case file. 

"Can we.."  His voice cracked.  He cleared his throat and started
again. 
 "Can we discuss this case now?"  His voice now betrayed nothing but
his eyes begged her not to torture him further. 

As tempting as it was to torment him she so rarely had the upper hand
in this game she decided to let him off the hook.  "Sure, Mulder. 
Would you like me to make some coffee?" 

"Coffee?  Yeah, coffee.  Coffee would be good."  She smiled at his
discomfiture. 

They discussed the case from every angle, concluding that it was, in
fact, worth considering as an X-file. Now all they had to do was get
it past Skinner; not too difficult a task as he usually trusted their
judgement. 

Their parting was a little awkward.  He wanted so much to kiss her
again but was pretty certain she would not be as accepting a second
time.  He settled for resting his hand on her shoulder and kissing her
forehead.  His voice was very quiet.  "Good night, Scully.  See you
tomorrow." 

"Good night, Mulder."  Her voice was just as quiet.  She had hoped he
would kiss her again.  She hadn't had the nerve to ask him to.  She
licked her lips, tasting him still. "Get a grip, Dana, you're acting
like a schoolgirl" she reprimanded herself. 


Thursday, February 20th, 5:00 p.m. 

The flight to New York had been relatively uneventful.  They had
arranged to meet Lt. Gerard for dinner at 6:00 and had just enough
time to check in to the hotel and unpack before hailing a cab. 

Over dinner, the Lieutenant filled them in on current developments in
the case.  "I hope I haven't got you here on a wild goose chase" she
said.  "It seems the person who identified the body isn't quite all
there and there's some question as to his reliability." Mulder assured
her that they were happy to help out anyway.  Scully asked to have the
reports sent to them tonight.  Lt. Gerard quickly agreed to have
someone bring them to the hotel. 

Dinner over and the conversation stalling, they agreed to meet
tomorrow morning. Arrangements would be made for Scully to examine the
body.  A detective would be at the hotel within an hour with the
reports and to answer any questions they may have.  Good nights all
around and they headed back to the hotel. 

As promised, a detective was there in 45 minutes.  Her initial plan to
have him just drop them off and save their questions until they had
read them was abandoned when she saw the detective at the door.  He
was tall and muscular, very handsome with unruly blond hair and deep
brown eyes that twinkled when he introduced himself. 
 Detective Sampson.  How appropriate.  Maintaining her dignity with
some effort, Scully invited him in.  As she closed the door behind
him, she couldn't help noticing that he was very attractive from the
back, too.  Jeans certainly did him justice, she reflected.  As he
took off his jacket, his t-shirt showed off a physique she had rarely
seen outside of the gym.  He didn't seem to notice or care that he was
being examined.  Looking like he did, he was probably used to it.  She
suspected she had Franklin to thank for the fact that she even
noticed. 

"I'll call my partner.  There's no sense in having you go through
everything twice." His answering smile showed beautiful, perfect white
teeth.  Oh my, the images those teeth brought to mind.  She excused
herself to open the door for Mulder. 

The meeting with the detective lasted less than an hour.  Mulder
showed him to the door and came back to find Scully staring into
space.  He hoped they didn't have to work too closely with Detective
Sampson on this case.  He came up behind her, leaned over and
whispered in her ear.  "Boo!"  She swatted at him and missed. 
"Careful, Scully, you know what happens when you hit me!" he teased. 

"Go to your room, Mulder.  I'm going to have a bath and go to bed. 
Call me for breakfast in the morning." 


Friday, February 21st, 7:30 a.m. 

Scully sat at the table in her room, reading the police reports
Detective Sampson had dropped off the night before.  She was scheduled
to examine the body at 11:00 and wanted to know as much about the case
as possible beforehand.  A small noise behind her drew her attention. 
She turned.  Franklin was stretched out on the bed, arms behind his
head.  She turned back to the reports. 

"Good morning, gorgeous."  His voice still had the power to charm her. 
She found him increasingly hard to ignore. 

"Does it occur to you, Franklin, that the people around me are
beginning to think I am nuts, talking to myself all the time?"  She
didn't bother to turn around to address him.  In fact, she tried to
avoid looking at him.  Those eyes still got to her. 

"There's no one here, Dana.  No one to see you talking to empty
space." 

"Mulder's in the next room.  He has very good hearing."  She hoped her
tone was dismissive.  He didn't take the hint. 

"Which brings me to the question of the day.  Why is he in the next
room?  He should be here, with you.  That's where he wants to be, you
know." 

"Oh, shut up, Franklin.  This is getting very tired." 

"I saw the way you looked at that detective, Dana." 

At this, she did turn around and look at him.  "And just what does
that mean?" 

"Just that I know you were attracted to him."  Franklin was
unperturbed by the injured look she directed at him. 

"What, and you're jealous now?" 

"No, I just wanted you to know.  You can't redirect it any more than I
can, Dana. The one you love is the one you love.  Feel what you feel,
Dana.  Stop denying it.  Stop trying to distract yourself." 

She turned back to the table just as the phone rang.  "Piss off,
Franklin, I'm busy." 


Friday, February 21st, 7:30 p.m. 

They were having dinner in the hotel dining room.  They had spent the
day investigating various avenues of information.  Scully's findings
on the body had been quite different from those of the coroner.  She
had, indeed, found signs that the body had been frozen.  It appeared
to have been flash-frozen in liquid nitrogen.  The only real mystery
now was where and how it had been stored for 20 years.  Scully wanted
to turn the whole thing back over to Lt. Gerard and catch the next
plane home.  Mulder wanted to stay until the case was closed.  They
compromised.  Scully agreed to spend Saturday working on the case and
Mulder agreed to go home Sunday morning.  So far, his plan was working
perfectly. 

"Now that that's all settled, Scully, what do you want to do tonight?" 

"I want to go back to my room and have a bath." 

"Need any help?" he said with a leer.  She threw her napkin at him. 
In a rare moment of romantic playfulness, he kissed it and threw it
back to her. In the spirit of the game, she held the napkin to her
lips for a moment before placing it on the table and rising from her
chair. 

"Let's go, Mulder.  If you promise to behave, we'll get room service
to send up a bottle of wine." 

"Oh goody, can we get a movie, too, Mom?  Can we? Can we?" 

She took his hand.  "Shut up, Mulder." 

She opened the door to her room, then turned and handed him the key. 
"Come back in an hour." 

"Okay, but if you're not done, I'm gonna peek!"  She pushed him
backwards out the door and closed it.  She went to fill the tub. 


Sunday, February 23rd, 10:00 a.m. 


They had done all they could do on the case.  It had been handed back
to the N.Y.P.D. to wrap up.  They had spent the day Saturday figuring
out the how and the when, now it was up to Lt. Gerard to figure out
the who and the why. Their flight was leaving at noon and they were
busy packing. 

Mulder was waiting in the lobby when Scully came down, pointedly
looking at his watch.  "Relax, Mulder, we have plenty of time."  She
had had the foresight to call a cab and it was currently waiting
outside the door. 

The airport was crowded.  This was where FBI badges came in very
handy. They were required to report to Security anyway, in order to
carry weapons onto the plane.  After thoroughly checking their
credentials, the Security Chief led them through the security passage
directly to the boarding gate.  With a tip of his hat, he wished them
a good flight.  He treated Scully to his most charming smile.  She
returned it in kind.  As they walked up the ramp to the flight
attendant at the door, Mulder nudged Scully with his elbow. 

"You were flirting with him.  I can't believe you were flirting with
him!" 

"Mulder, I do not flirt.  I was just being polite." 

"You were flirting." 

"Was not." 

They boarded the plane.  She was glad to be going home.  New York was
far from her favorite place.  Settling into their seats, they chatted
while the plane prepared to take off.  Once in the air, they unbuckled
their seatbelts, settling in for the short flight home. 

Franklin watched as they made themselves as comfortable as possible in
an airline seat.  When it seemed to him that she was getting sleepy,
he put his hand on Dana's shoulder. 

The monotonous sound of the thrumming engines was relaxing.  Scully
dozed.  She again felt the familiar warmth.  She looked over at
Mulder.  His head was against the headrest, his eyes closed.  She
looked at his arm on the armrest.  Without a conscious plan to do so,
she laid her hand over his, tucking her fingers under his palm. 
Mulder turned his head to look at her.  He returned her smile and
moved his hand so he could more completely hold hers. 

Franklin looked conspiratorially at Felicity.  "This is what you've
been waiting for." Felicity put her hand on top of both of theirs with
a smile.  "You go, girl!"  Franklin encouraged her. 

Scully got out of her seat to go to the washroom.  Mulder followed
her. Once past the cabin itself, in the hallway leading to the
washrooms, she stopped and turned to face him.  His arms were around
her and his lips found hers.  Their tongues explored. Breathless,
Scully entered a cubicle.  Looking around to see no one in the
vicinity, Mulder followed her.  The tiny space made moving around
difficult. Interesting, but difficult. Within minutes, Mulder's pants
were draped over the commode, with Scully's pantyhose.  Her skirt was
around her waist, his lips were on her throat.  "Don't you know you
should always wear underwear when traveling?" he murmured into her
neck. 

"But it's so much easier not to!"  She gasped as his hand found what
it had been searching for.  A few minutes later, she groaned.  "Oh,
now!"  she breathed "Oh, please, Mulder, Now!"  His hands went around
behind her and lifted her off her feet.  He looked directly into her
eyes as he lowered her onto himself, her hand guiding him in.  What he
saw there was ecstasy.  What he saw there was green eyes. 

Mulder awoke with a start.  In the seconds before complete
wakefulness, he thought he heard Scully moan "Oh no, not yet!"  He
quickly turned his head to look at her.  He could see she had been
sleeping.  Her face was flushed and she was struggling to wake up. 
Her hand clutched his on the armrest.  He turned away to look out the
window.  Glancing down, he was more than a little embarrassed at the
continuing effect of the unfulfilled dream.  He released Scully's hand
and excused himself to go to the washroom. He was grateful for loose
pants.  So intent was he on his purpose he didn't notice that Scully
barely acknowledged him as he stepped over her to the aisle. 

Scully came fully awake.  She was profoundly embarrassed.  She knew
that no one could know what she had been dreaming but felt herself
blushing anyway. She felt an ache, a longing that she couldn't quite
identify.  She got out of her seat, intending to go to the washroom. 
What she longed for became perfectly clear to her, then.  Perhaps some
cold water would relieve the heat in her face.  Mulder was coming up
the aisle toward her. As they turned sideways to pass, her breasts
brushed against his chest. The sensation was like being hit by
lightening. 

Closing the cubicle door, she caught sight of herself in the mirror
over the tiny sink.  Her embarrassment returned.  The dream came back
to her fully.  Every touch, every sensation was vivid in her mind. 
She felt her knees buckling and sat. Damn him, she thought, if he was
going to insinuate himself into her dreams, he could at least finish
the job!  She chuckled then at the ridiculousness of blaming Mulder
for her dreams.  Gradually her body temperature returned to normal,
the flush on her cheeks receded and the pressure in her dissipated. 
Suddenly, with perfect clarity, she knew who was responsible for this. 
She would have to thank them when next she saw them.  She smiled and
returned to her seat.  Franklin gave Felicity a silent high-five. 

Mulder watched her sit down.  He was thankful that she didn't take his
hand again. After that, he didn't think he could handle touching her
at all.  He picked a magazine from the pocket in front of him and
leafed through it.  No way was he going to go to sleep again.  Thank
God it was a short flight. 

Scully was no longer sleepy.  She was thankful for that.  She didn't
dare go back to sleep.  Thank God for short flights. 


Sunday, February 23rd, 1:00 p.m. 

They parted company at Scully's front door.  She wanted to invite him
in, to spend the rest of the day snuggled on the couch, to feed each
other strawberries dipped in chocolate, to make love on the floor, to
relax together in a hot bubble bath, to sleep curled up together in
her bed.  Oh heavens, where were these thoughts coming from?  As if
she didn't know.  She waved from the door as he drove away. 

Mulder drove away feeling very alone.  He had wanted to spend the rest
of the day with her, make love to her right there on the floor, join
her in one of the bubble baths she enjoyed so much, sleep in her bed
holding her in his arms all night.  Damn, he needed to assert some
control here.  This just wasn't going to happen and he had to deal
with it. Without warning, Frank's voice sounded in his head.  "You
never know, guy, it might happen.  Call her."  He hadn't heard that
voice in a while.  Maybe he'd give her a call when he got home.  He
chuckled then.  He had an idea she would be calling him before he got
home.  If the boys had remembered to do what he had asked them to do. 
They would. They were geeks.  Geeks and elephants they never forget
anything. 

Scully put her bags down to collect her mail.  She was surprised at
the volume of mail that had accumulated in just two days.  She glanced
through it, noticing that there seemed to be a lot of cards.  Oh
Jesus, her birthday!  How could she forget her own birthday?  She was
not surprised Mulder hadn't said anything, he usually forgot her
birthday.  She tucked the mail under her arm and picked up her bags. 

She stopped dead inside her apartment door.  Balloons.  There were
balloons everywhere.  They were floating near the ceiling,
Multi-coloured spheres of foil and latex, coloured ribbons hanging
down like some sort of surrealistic stalactite display.  Each one had
the same thing printed on it.  Happy Birthday.  Each one had something
tied to the end.  She reached for the closest one and untied the tiny
parcel.  The balloon floated up to rest against the ceiling.  She
laughed out loud at the sight of the Superman ring in her hand. 
Mulder.  He hadn't forgotten.  She didn't need to ask who had done
this for him. She would have to have a talk with those boys about the
laws regarding break and enter. 

Scully dodged hanging ribbons as she carried her bags to the bedroom. 
There was on oversized balloon, in the shape of a rose, suspended
above her bed. She followed the ribbon down to what was holding the
balloon in place.  A florist box.  She untied the balloon and let it
float up to the ceiling.  Gingerly opening the box, she saw four red
roses and a spray of baby's breath.  Tears formed in her eyes when she
read the card. 

"Scully" he had written, "There aren't enough flowers in the world to
tell you how much you mean to me."  She had to wipe her eyes to see
the rest.  "There aren't enough balloons to show you how much I care." 
She paused then, looking up for a moment, to stem the tears that were
threatening to roll down her face.  "There are no words to describe
how you have affected my life."  She didn't try to stop the tears from
falling, now. "You are my life.  I am nothing without you.  Happy
Birthday, Beautiful Lady.  Enjoy." 

She sat on the edge of the bed, clutching the card to her chest.  "Oh,
Mulder!" she said through her tears. 

"And you still maintain that he doesn't love you?" came the familiar
voice. 

"Franklin!"  She looked up at him.  "Did you do this?  I mean, was
this your influence?" 

"No, Dana, I have no influence over him.  This was all him.  All for
you."  He leaned over, his face just inches from hers.  "What more do
you need?  Call him, Dana.  Invite him over.  Let him help you open
all those little packages."  In a daze, she stood, still holding the
card. 

He answered on the first ring.  She could hear the smile in his voice. 
"Hey, Scully, what's up?" 

She heard the tremor in her own voice.  "Thank you, Mulder."  No other
words were forthcoming.  There was so much to say and she didn't know
how to say it.  She settled for "Could you come over here, if you're
not too busy?" 

"Never too busy for you, Scully.  I'm on my way."  He could tell by
her voice that the boys had done their job.  That was another one he
owed them.  Holly had done hers, too.  He made sure the small parcel
was in his coat pocket before he walked out the door. He'd had just
enough time to change his clothes before she phoned.  He was wearing
the sweater she had given him.  He liked the feel of the cashmere on
his skin.  He hoped she would like it on hers. 

Looking up, Scully contemplated the balloons.  What was she going to
do with them?  Shaking her head, she went to the fridge to get a
drink.  A bakery box was prominently displayed on the top shelf. 
Written in a large flowing script across the top were the words "Happy
Birthday to our Very Favorite Lady."  It was signed, Frohike, Langly
and Byers.  Opening the lid, she laughed at the picture of a UFO that
covered the whole top of the cake. 

She finally thought to check her answering machine.  The first message
from her mother was a birthday greeting.  The next message was also
from her mother.  She sounded puzzled. 

"Dana, I just got a strange package delivered.  It's a flower
arrangement.  It's from Fox and the card just says "Thanks".  Do you
know what this means?  Call me when you get home."  Scully laughed. 
She knew exactly what that meant. 

Sunday, February 23rd, 4:30 p.m. 

They had spent the last two hours opening all of the tiny gifts
hanging from her ceiling, talking and laughing.  Mulder opened the
last one.  It was a single chocolate.  She reached for it and he
popped it into his own mouth.  He held her face in his hands and put
his mouth on hers.  His tongue pushed the candy into her mouth.  Their
tongues wrestled over it for a moment before Scully pulled away and
finished eating it. His mouth descended on hers again.  He licked the
spot of chocolate off of her bottom lip and stepped away from her,
looking up at the balloons now crowded together on the ceiling.  He
needed to put some space between them before he did something she
would make him regret. 

"Scully, let's have a party." 

"A party?  Don't be ridiculous, Mulder, we can't have a party.  There
isn't time"  What she didn't say was that she would rather just spend
the time alone with him. 

"Sure there is, Scully.  We'll call the guys.  And Skinner.  And your
mother.  It'll be great!  We'll order take-out, get some beer, it'll
be great."  He stopped.  How could he have forgotten the gift he still
had in his coat pocket?  Holding up a finger to stop her reply, he
said "Hold that thought, I'll be right back."  He rushed to where he
had left his coat on the table.  He seemed to be all thumbs.  He
finally freed the package from the confines of his pocket.  Holding it
behind him, he walked back to where she was still standing.  He held
it out to her.  "Last one, I promise." 

Wordlessly, she opened the box.  Nestled in soft cotton was a bracelet
that perfectly matched the necklace and earrings he had already given
her.  Still without a word, she kissed him once gently and slid her
arms around his back to hold him tightly.  She wanted so much to say
it but the words were not there.  "Thank you" was all she could
manage. 

"You're welcome" she said into her hair. 

Clearing her throat, she stepped back from him reluctantly.  "Let's
call the guys and invite them over for cake.  After all, they did
provide the cake." 

He looked at her quizzically "Cake?" 

"Oh, I didn't show you the cake" she laughed.  "It was in the fridge
when I got home."  Taking his hand, she led him to the fridge.  He
laughed out loud when she saw it, as she had.  He ran his finger
through the icing and licked it off. 

"Mulder, that's gross." 

"Not as gross as this" he said, quickly scooping more icing and
putting it on her cheek.  She stood stock-still and looked at him
reprovingly.  He leaned over and licked it off.  She pushed him away
and used a paper towel to clean what he had left behind. 

"Go phone the guys." 

Putting the phone down, he said "Langly will call Frohike and Byers
and they'll be here about six."  Realizing he was talking to her back,
he came up behind her and put his arms around her middle.  She leaned
back into him and an involuntary sigh escaped her. 

Mesmerized by the feel of her against his chest, her hands folded over
his, the smell of her hair, he couldn't keep himself from nuzzling her
neck.  Even while she was tilting her head to expose her neck to him,
she pleaded in a whisper "Mulder, please don't" 

He hadn't meant to upset her.  He stepped away from her in dismay. 
She spun around to face him, her eyes shining with unshed tears. 
Before he could walk any further away, she took his hand.  Raising it
to her cheek, she held it there for a moment.  She turned her head to
kiss his palm before releasing his hand.  "I just can't do this now." 

Mulder was contrite.  He looked down at his hands.  "I'm sorry,
Scully. I...." He didn't know what to say.  I just can't stand not
touching you didn't seem the best choice of explanation. 

Taking his hand again, she said quietly "It's okay, Mulder."  The last
thing on earth she wanted to do was hurt him but, somehow, I liked
that so much it scared me didn't seem like just the right thing to
say. 

As they had learned to do so long ago, they moved apart and busied
themselves with small tasks to give themselves time to regain the
status quo.  What they didn't notice was that the status quo was
slowly being eroded. 


Sunday, February 23rd, 6:05 p.m. 

There was a knock on the door.  Scully opened it to admit Frohike,
Langly and Byers.  Langly carried a dozen beer, Byers carried a bottle
of wine. Frohike held a small gift-wrapped box. 

"Three wise men bearing gifts" Mulder said, leaning over Scully's
shoulder.  She elbowed him out of the way and let them in.  One after
the other they each kissed her cheek.  Mulder stepped in behind them
and kissed her on the lips before she could pull away.  He grinned at
her. 

Langly grinned as he pulled a box of birthday candles from his pocket. 
"No birthday party is complete without them." 

Frohike handed Scully the gift.  "Just a little token of our
admiration." 

"Thank you, Melvin" she murmured.  She kissed his cheek.  Frohike
blushed crimson.  Langly and Mulder laughed.  The box contained an
oversized t-shirt featuring a photo of the Gunmen on the front. 
Scully clutched it to her chest, nearly convulsed with laughter.  "Oh
guys!  This is great!"  Frohike was still standing closest to her. 
She whispered to him, "Now I can sleep with you next to my heart." 
Frohike blushed again. 

Langly insisted on going through the ritual of blowing out the
candles, although he was hard-pressed to get the others to sing. 
Mulder had gathered all 33 balloons into bunches and held them down by
tying them to various pieces of furniture. 
 They spread into the living room.  Scully sat on the couch next to
Frohike.  She couldn't resist teasing him a little.  Her hand came to
rest on his leg and he jumped like he had been scalded. Scully winked
at him.  In a sultry voice she asked him to get her a glass of wine. 
He eagerly complied.  Handing it to her, her hand lingered over his
for just a few seconds too long.  He almost dropped the glass. 

They ate and drank and partied until 10:00, at which time, Byers
suggested that it was time to go.  They made their way to the door. 
In answer to Langly's question, Mulder said he would stay to help
Scully tidy up.  By 10:30, they were finally gone and Mulder and
Scully were alone again.  Mulder started gathering glasses and plates. 

"You don't have to do that, Mulder."  Her voice came from behind him. 

"That's okay, Scully, I don't mind" What he didn't mind was spending
more time alone with her.  As he carried the dishes to the kitchen, he
asked her "You got something going with Frohike I should know about?" 

"Who, me?" she feigned innocence. 

"You were flirting with him all night." 

"Mulder, I do not flirt." 

"Scully, you flirted.  With Frohike!"  He shook his head, remembering. 
"The poor guy, he didn't know which way to jump when you grabbed his
leg." 

"I did not grab his leg."  Mulder raised his eyebrows at her.  "I
touched it" she admitted.  Mulder continued to look at her
skeptically. 

"Scully, you flirted." 

"Did not." 

"Did so." 

"Mulder, I don't even know how to flirt." 

"Then you are a natural-born tart, Ms. Scully".  She stuck her tongue
out at him. "Really mature, Scully." 

Comfortable in the ensuing the silence, they finished tidying up the
apartment. That done, Mulder could think of no further excuse to stay
so he reluctantly took his leave. He had the door open and was about
to cross the threshold when he was stopped by her voice. 

"Thank you Mulder.  For everything.  This has been the best birthday
I've ever had."  She meant it.  She stayed on the other side of the
room when she said it.  If she got too close to him, she knew that she
would not let him leave. 

Mulder stayed at the door, a rueful smile on his face.  He didn't dare
go to her.  If he got too close to her, he knew that he wouldn't be
able to leave.  "You're more than welcome, Scully.  You deserve it." 
It was good to see her so happy. "Good night." 

"Good night, Mulder."  The door closed behind him. 

He paused outside the door.  He didn't want to leave.  He wanted to go
back through that door and hold her.  He wanted force himself on her,
to take her, right there on the floor.  He trembled with the strength
of his desire.  It was her decision to make. It had always been her
decision.  He walked away. 

Scully stood inside the door.  She wished he hadn't left.  She wished
he would come back.  She wanted him to insist, to push, to take her
right here on the floor.  She wanted the decision taken out of her
hands.  She didn't want to carry the burden of that responsibility
alone.  In the silence of her aloneness, Scully sighed.  Sometimes she
wished things could be different. 


Monday, February 24th, 6:00 a.m. 

It had been a peaceful, dreamless sleep and she felt really rested for
the first time in a long time.  Franklin must have taken the night
off, she thought to herself.  She went to the kitchen to put the
coffee on and had a shower while it brewed. She took her coffee to the
computer and sat to check her e-mail.  When the machine booted, an
automated reminder message popped up on the screen.  She had a dentist
appointment this morning. There wasn't much point in going to work
first.  She should let Mulder know.  She looked at the clock.  He
would probably not be out of bed yet. 

She could call, but she was already here, she might as well send an
e-mail instead.  She would send it to the office.  Checking his e-mail
was the first thing he did when he got there.  "Mulder" she typed.  "I
have a dentist appointment at 9 a.m. and I won't be in until after
that."  As an afterthought, she added "Sorry I didn't tell you
yesterday, I forgot about it."  A familiar feeling of warmth flooded
her body.  "Piss off Franklin, I don't have time" she said to the air
around her. 

The warmth dissolved and she turned back to her screen.  She was about
to click 'send' when she happened to look at the message she was about
to send. 

"Mulder: I have a dentist appointment at 9 a.m. and I won't be in
until after that.  Sorry I didn't tell you yesterday, I forgot about
it.  I'll miss having breakfast with you.  I love you." 

"Franklin!" she admonished him aloud, not knowing or caring whether he
was there or not, "You can't keep doing this!"  Deleting the offending
portion, she sent the message. Rising from her chair, she was not
surprised to see Franklin standing in front of her.  He hadn't become
any less attractive or any less charming but he had become more
annoying.  She would miss him when he was gone. 

Franklin grinned at her.  "I didn't do it, Dana, you did." 

"Well, you made me do it!" 

"Did not!" 

"Did so!" 

They were both standing, hands on hips, leaning toward each other,
petulant children having a spat.  Scully suddenly realized how they
must look and, straightening up, she laughed.  Franklin loved that
sound.  He laughed with her. 

"Go away, Franklin, I don't have time this morning."  She walked
toward her bedroom, long past worrying about whether he stayed or
left.  She did, in fact, have time on her hands, now that she didn't
have to be at work by 8:00 but she didn't feel up to battling wits
with Franklin. 

She took her time getting dressed, spending more time undressed than
she normally would, or than was really required.  At 8:15, she put on
her coat, picked up her briefcase and left her apartment.  At 8:40 she
parked and walked into the building that her dentist had his office
in.  Before leaving the car, she unhooked her holster and locked her
gun in her briefcase.  It was very uncomfortable sitting in that chair
with a gun digging into her back.  She was the first patient of the
day and they got her in early.  By 9:20 she was on her way to work. 
At 9:40 she bid Mulder a cheery good morning and watched as the frown
he so commonly wore disappeared. 

"Good morning, Scully.  Feeling any older?" 

"I feel like a teenager, Mulder." 


Monday, February 24th, 5:00 p.m. 

It had been a boring day.  Without a new case to work on, they had had
no excuse for not getting caught up on the paperwork that was heaped
helter-skelter around the office.  Scully was more than ready to go
home.  Her back ached and she felt restless. Maybe she'd go for a run
tonight. 

"I'm going to call it a day, Mulder.  I've had enough paperwork to
last me half a lifetime." 

Mulder looked up from the report he was reading.  "Want to go get some
dinner?"  he asked casually.  Too casually.  This was the proverbial
fork in the road and she had about 30 seconds to decide which path to
take. 

"You know, I don't think I do.  I think I'm going to go for a run and
just go home." 

He was about to offer to accompany her when he realized that she had
just, tactfully, told him she wanted to be alone.  "Okay, well, I
guess I'll see you tomorrow." 

Part of her had hoped he would insist but the rest of her was relieved
that he didn't.  After this past week, she really did need to create
some space between them. 


Monday, February 24th, 8:00 p.m. 

Scully came home from her run pleasantly tired.  A hot bath and an
early night seemed like just what the doctor ordered.  The phone was
ringing when she stepped inside.  She rushed to answer it before the
machine picked up. 

"Scully" she answered, still short of breath. 

"Hey, Scully, you sound winded.  You okay?" 

"I'm fine, Mulder.  I just came in from a run.  What's up?" 

"Oh nothing.  I was just on my way home and I thought maybe you'd like
some company." 

She would like nothing better right now.  "I think I'll take a rain
check, Mulder.  I'm going to have a bath and go to bed early."  It
finally registered what he had said.  "Are you just leaving work now?" 

"Yeah, well, I kind of got caught up in something."  He sounded
apologetic.  He didn't want to tell her what he got caught up in was
having a nap on his desk. 

"Caught up in what?"  He was probably sleeping on his desk again. 

"Oh.... just stuff."  She smiled.  Definitely sleeping. 

"Well, you should go home and get some sleep.  If tomorrow is as
exciting as today was, you're going to need it." 

"Yeah, maybe you're right.  Good night Scully."  He didn't hear the
wistfulness in his voice.  Scully did. 

"Good night, Mulder."  She wondered where Franklin was. 


Wednesday, February 26th, 8:00 a.m. 

Scully arrived at work to find a note on Mulder's desk.  "If anything
happens that you need me for, call me.  I'm running some errands." 
The last two days had been just about the longest she had ever
experienced.  They had spent so many hours catching up on paperwork
that she was about to start mopping the floor just for the sake of
variety. 

The phone rang.  Oh good, a diversion. 

"Hey, Scully" he said when she answered. 

"Hey Mulder.  Where are you?" 

"I'm at McDonald's, having breakfast.  Wanna join me?" 

"No, why don't you just bring me something?" 

"Because I'm not coming in today." 

"Why not?  Is everything okay?" 

"Everything is fine.  I'm just bored to death.  I'm going to have
breakfast, then I thought I might go shoot some hoops, work out, go
for a swim and have a massage, maybe take in a movie later." 

Scully groaned.  That sounded so much better than writing reports,
reading reports, filing reports.  It even sounded better than mopping
the floor.  Maybe she should join him. "I'm going to finish up this
last batch of reports and then I think I may go over to the morgue and
see what's up there."  She smiled into the phone.  "Or maybe I'll just
go to the library and read a trashy novel.  I can always pretend I'm
doing research."  She knew she wouldn't. 

"I gotta go, Scully, I'm next in line.  I'll call you later, maybe we
can have dinner or something." 

She had missed spending the evening with him for the last two days. 
She had felt the need to step back and regroup.  Two days in a row she
had had dinner alone and had spent the evening just killing time.  Now
she found herself wanting company.  "Sure, Mulder, I'd like that. 
Call me." 


Wednesday, February 26th, 11:00 a.m. 

Franklin had submitted his report to the Old Man.  He was pretty
pleased with the progress he had made. 

 "Franklin, you have just two days left for this project.  I notice
you have not visited your subject in two days.  Why is that?" 

"Sir, I wanted to see how she would fare without my influence." 

"She has spent the last two evenings alone." 

"Ah, yes, but she didn't like it.  That's progress." 

"So you believe you have succeeded here?" 

"I believe we have started the ball rolling, sir.  I believe that it
will carry on rolling after we leave.  She has certainly come to
understand her feelings for him.  She has a lot of conditioning to
overcome.  She will, I'm sure of it.  It will happen, sir.  Just not
yet." 

"Felicity, what do you think?"  Eros asked. 

"I think Franklin is right.  She has developed tremendous control over
the years. I have noticed it takes a lot less to get her started now
than it did at first.  She is certainly willing to think about it,
now, and that's a good sign.  I'm sure it will happen soon.  She wants
it to happen." 

"Very well, then.  You have until this time Friday to complete your
project.  I expect a full report then." 

After they left, Eros still sat at the table, thinking.  They had done
well but he wasn't as sure as they were that success was inevitable. 
Perhaps they could use a little surreptitious help.  Maybe just a
little nudge. 


Wednesday, February 26th, 8:00 p.m. 

They had made mushroom omelets for dinner and ate in the living room,
Mulder eating with one hand, using his other to change channels. 

"Mulder, please" she begged "just pick a channel and watch it!"  She
picked up their dishes and carried them to the kitchen.  She heard him
behind her as she rinsed the plates. 

"Don't think you can sneak up on me, Mulder."  she said without
turning around. His chuckle sounded right in her ear as his hands
slipped around her waist.  She sighed.  Now this was the way to do
dishes.  His arms were all the way around her, overlapped in the
middle, his chin resting on her shoulder. 

"You are so beautiful" he whispered in her ear.  The warmth of his
breath sent a shiver right down to her toes.  His hands splayed to
cover her midsection as he pulled her closer to him.  She could feel
his body heat seeping into her.  His lips on her neck felt like
electricity.  His tongue snaked out to touch her earlobe and the shock
went straight to her groin.  She groaned.  "Mulder, please" she begged
in a husky whisper. 

He chuckled, continuing his exploration.  "Please, what, Scully?"  His
voice was low and sultry in her ear, his kisses sending a tingle
throughout her body. She couldn't take much more of this. 

"Please help me do the dishes."  She gasped out the words, her
self-control reaching its limit.  If he didn't stop in about ten
seconds she would lose it and then there was no telling what would
happen.  Oh yeah there was.  She knew exactly what would happen.  His
sudden laughter saved her. 

"Scully, you are ....."  He couldn't think of what he wanted to say. 
The most frustrating woman I've ever known came to mind.  What was it
he was going to say?  The love of my life?  The bane of my existence? 
".....I don't know, but you're something." 

She grinned at him as she handed him the dish that had dried in her
hand.  She realized with a start that the water was still running. 

The dishes done, they returned to the living room.  Mulder immediately
picked up the remote and Scully groaned.  "Mulder, I'm going to go
have a shower. Will you please pick one thing to watch?"  He didn't
seem to be listening to her.  She leaned over where he sat on the
couch, her face just inches from his.  "Please?"  His eyes drifted
from her face to her cleavage.  He thought the V-necked sweater just
might be his new favorite thing.  Her finger on his chin brought his
eyes back to her face. 

With a sheepish grin, he said "What?"  She stood up and put her hands
on her hips. The reproving parent. 

"I said I'm going to have a shower.  Will......" 

He interrupted her "Want me to wash your back?" with his eyebrows
raised hopefully. 

"No, thank you, I have a brush for that.  Just pick something to
watch. I'll be back in few minutes." 

He watched her walk away.  He looked down.  His hopes were not all she
raised. Oh well, at least she didn't tell him to go home.  That was a
good sign. 
 To the air he whispered "Come on, Franklin, do your stuff.  Help me
out, here."  He didn't hear Franklin's chuckle or Felicity's giggle. 

"We're doing our best, guy, We're doing our best.  She's tougher than
all of us." Franklin followed her down the hall, Felicity behind him. 
They waited. 

Showering quickly, she wrapped herself in her robe and returned to the
living room. Mulder was watching a movie, lounging on the couch, his
feet on the coffee table.  She stepped over his legs and sat beside
him.  Without taking his eyes from the TV, he raised his arm behind
her, an unspoken invitation to lean against him.  She moved over and
laid her head on his shoulder.  His arm came down to lie along the
curve of hers.  Still without a word, he ducked his head and gently
kissed her hairline. 

"You smell good."  In answer, she slid her arm over his middle and
snuggled closer.


Wednesday, February 26th, 10:00 p.m. 

Scully dozed lying against his chest.  He considered waking her and
sending her to bed but thought better of it.  Instead, he eased out
from under her, putting a pillow in his stead.  She muttered in her
sleep and he stroked her hair and murmured soothing sounds until she
was once again sleeping peacefully.  He set the timer on the TV to
turn off after his departure and turned off the lights.  Retrieving
his coat, he slipped out the door, making sure it would lock behind
him. 

Scully dreamed.  She dreamed of an old, shaggy-maned man with a
beautiful, angelic face and Mediterranean blue eyes.  And dimples. 
She was surrounded by a solid brick wall, no doors, no windows, a wall
so high she couldn't see the top of it.  She didn't know how he got
in.  There was a single small crack in the wall.  He put his hand on
the crack and it opened wider, wide enough to walk through.  He took
her by the hand, as if she were a child and she followed him, trusting
him absolutely.  The wall began to crumble behind them.  He led her
through a maze of images.  Images of Mulder.  Holding her, being held
by her, laughing, crying, talking, even pouting.  Hundreds of images
of all the time she had spent with him.  At the end of the maze was a
place of warmth and softness and light.  She was overwhelmed by a
sense of well-being.  This was a safe place.  "Where are we?" she
whispered "What is this place?"  She looked up at the man who was
smiling down at her. 

"This is Heaven, Little One."  Then she saw him.  Mulder.  Standing
before her, reaching out.  The old man was gone.  Without hesitation
she went to Mulder.  He enfolded her in his arms, speaking softly to
her. 

"I love you, Dana Scully.  I have loved you for a long time.  I will
always love you. If you will let me, I will spend my life proving that
to you.  I want to spend my life earning your love.  Please love me
Scully.  I need you." 

"I do love you, Mulder" she whispered to an empty room.  No one heard
except a shaggy-maned old man with Mediterranean blue eyes.  And
dimples. 


Thursday, February 27th, 4:00 p.m. 

The day had started off in the same boring manner as every day this
week.  By 9:00 Scully had been looking forward to the end of the day
and Mulder had been considering taking the day off.  That had all
changed with the ringing of the phone.  A hostage situation was taking
place and all available agents were called to the scene.  They had
spent the day in a tense stand-off with an armed man who seemed to
want nothing more than to maintain the stand-off.  The Bureau wouldn't
have been called in at all, had it not been for the fact that the
hostages were two white-house aides who happened to be carrying
documents that the Justice Department did not want made public.  Their
Secret Service escort was nowhere to be found and was presumed dead. 

Several people, including Mulder, had tried to negotiate with the man,
to no avail. Dozens of people were working on identifying him.  By
1:00 a SWAT team was in place. Accompanied by several agents, they had
entered the building.  Scully and Mulder were among the agents
accompanying them.  Carrying 40 pounds of protective equipment, they
made their way around the building and entered from the back.  Scully
looked over at Mulder and saw him grinning.  He winked at her.  She
just shook her head.  Testosterone overload. 

As it turned out, before they got to the room where the hostages were
being held, they came across the Secret Service agent who had been
escorting them. He was badly wounded and barely alive.  Mulder had
infuriated her by suggesting that he continue on while she stayed to
help the agent.  They had argued briefly and then abandoned the arrest
effort in favour of getting him to a hospital.  They carried him as
well as they could to a more protected area and called the paramedics
in.  By the time he was out of their hands, the arrest had been made. 
Both hostages and all of the documents were recovered safely. 

Now, they sat in their office.  They had filed a report and were more
than ready to call it a day.  She was still a little annoyed over
their argument.  She was astonished that he would have abandoned a
wounded man in favour of a little action. 

"Let's go home, Scully."  At the injured look she gave him he
continued "Lighten up, Scully.  It's over. You won.  I'm sorry."  He
stuck out his bottom lip in a pout. 

What an exasperating man he is, she thought to herself.  He was still
pouting.  She laughed in spite of herself.  She wanted to nibble on
that lip.  Stop that, Dana.  "Let's go get dinner, Mulder." 

Winter was back with a vengeance.  As they walked out of the building,
they were pelted with snow.  The wind blustered around them.  The
inside of the car was blessedly quiet by comparison.  "Where to,
Madam?" he said, starting the engine. 

"Home.  I'll cook." 

"Home it is."  He smiled, enjoying the sound of the word.  He liked to
think of her apartment as home. 


Thursday, February 27th, 7:30 p.m. 

The storm had increased in intensity.  Scully stood at the window,
watching it, hugging herself.  Mulder came up behind her and rested
his hands on her shoulders.  He let his hands slide down her arms
until his arms were crossed over hers. 
 "You okay?" 

"I'm fine, Mulder." 

"How are you really?" 

She smiled and pulled away from his arms, walked away from the window. 
"Really, I'm fine."  She felt restless.  Storms always did that to
her.  She dropped down into the chair and rested her head against the
back.  Mulder came over and sat on the floor at her feet.  Without
thinking, she began to stroke his hair, her head still back, eyes
closed.  "I don't think you should drive in this, Mulder.  I think you
should stay here for the night." 

"Happy to, Scully." 

"On the couch, Mulder." 

"I know, Scully, I know." 

She raised her head, then, and looked down at him.  The note of
resignation in his voice depressed her a little.  She stood and headed
for the kitchen. "I'm going to make some tea, do you want some?"  When
he didn't answer right away, she turned toward the living room.  He
was standing in the doorway, leaning against the jamb, watching her. 

"Tea would be fine, Scully."  He watched her fill the kettle and put
it on the burner before he spoke again.  "What is it, Scully?  What's
wrong?"  He pushed himself away from the wall and approached her. 
Instinct told him not to push.  He put one hand on her shoulder,
inviting her to come to him.  She did.  When his arms enfolded her,
the room seemed to get warmer and last night's dream came back to her
vividly, image by image. 

The kettle whistled and she pushed away from him to make the tea. 
Handing him his cup, an odd feeling came over her.  A feeling of
resolve, of strength.  She knew that she could do what she had been
thinking about all day.  She could.  She would.  Right now.  "Mulder,
we have to talk." 

Mulder was suddenly nervous.  When a woman says 'we have to talk', it
usually means the man doesn't want to hear what she has to say.  "Talk
about what, Scully?"  He followed her to the living room.  She sat on
the couch.  He had a feeling that he would be better off in the chair,
instead of sitting next to her.  He sat.  She was looking at him over
the rim of her cup while she drank her tea.  He waited. 

She spoke quietly, just as a huge gust of wind shook the building.  He
was sure he had misheard her.  "What did you say?" 

She carefully put her cup on the table and sat up straight on the edge
of the couch. 

"I love you, Mulder." 

Oh my god.  He must be dreaming.  He could have sworn he just heard
Scully, his Scully, saying the words he had longed for, and feared,
for what felt like most of his life.  He looked at her.  She seemed to
be waiting for something. 

"Mulder?  Did you hear me?" 

Oh my God.  She did say it.  She loves me.  Oh my God. 

"Say it again" he croaked.  He had to hear it again. 

"I love you, Mulder.  I.  Love.  You." 

"I love you, too, Scully."  Still looking directly into her eyes he
was afraid he would wake up soon.  He didn't want to wake up.  Ever. 

"I know" she said quietly "I've just had a hard time accepting that. 
I'm sorry." 

Sorry?  She was sorry?  For what?  For giving his life meaning?  For
validating his entire existence?  His defense mechanism kicked in
before he could prevent it.  "Better late than never, Scully." 

Her quiet laughter filled his heart until he thought it might burst. 
"So, what do you think we should do about this?"  Hopeful. 

She stood slowly, her eyes never leaving his face.  She walked around
the table and right up to the chair.  He wanted to stand but he was
paralyzed.  He was helpless to do anything but look up at her.  She
leaned over him.  Her lips brushed his ear and sent shock waves
through his body.  "Nothing" she whispered. 

She stood, then, and walked away.  Looking over her shoulder at him,
sitting stock- still, her heart lurched.  "Not tonight, anyway" she
whispered.  He didn't hear her. 

From the doorway she called "I'm going to go have a shower.  I'll be
right back." He answered with a wave, still incapable of any movement. 
"Why don't you find something on TV?" she suggested.  He waved again. 


Thursday, February 27th, 8:50 p.m. 

When she came out of the bathroom she heard the TV.  She came into the
living room just as Mulder stood up from the couch.  His expression
was determined as he approached her.  She remembered what she had
wished for the other night. 
 He walked right up to her and put both arms around her, held her
tightly.  She responded in kind. He released her, only to take her
face gently in both hands.  He kissed her lips, not giving her time to
react.  "I love you, Dana Scully.  I have for a long time.  I will
always be here for you, I promise you that.  I will wait for you." 

It was his turn to walk away and leave her paralyzed.  It was so like
her dream she shivered.  She picked up their tea cups and carried them
to the kitchen. 
 She felt strangely detached.  Mulder came out of the bathroom without
a word.  He stretched out on the couch, watching whatever was on TV. 
She approached the couch and he moved his feet to let her sit,
directing a rueful smile her way.  His arm was lying along his side
and she reached out and took his hand in hers.  He squeezed her hand
without looking at her.  They sat before the TV, not really seeing
what was on, until she saw that he had dozed off.  Easing off the
couch so as not to wake him, she stood looking at him for a full
minute.  With a sigh, she covered him with the blanket and walked to
her bedroom. 

Entering her bedroom, Scully felt a hand on her arm.  She started and
turned to see Franklin standing there.  "I thought you were gone." 
Her voice was non-committal. 

"Before you get undressed, can we talk for a minute?" 

With a sigh, she sat on the edge of the bed, hands folded in her lap. 
"Talk about what, Franklin?" 

He sat in the chair.  "About you.  And him." he said, cocking a thumb
in the direction of the door. 

"What about us?"  She was not going to make this easier for him.  He
was going to have to come right out and say what he meant. 

"You want him, Dana.  You know you do.  What would be so wrong?" 

"I already explained that to you.  It just wouldn't work." 

"Did I say you should marry him?  No.  Live with him?  No.  One time,
Dana.  You know you want to.  You know he wants to.  What's the big
deal?  You're a big girl, Dana, you don't have to answer to anyone. 
Why do you deny yourself what you really want?" 

"I don't do one-night stands, Franklin." 

"How about once-a-week stands, Dana?"  Franklin looked smugly at her. 
Oh, those eyes, those dimples!  She stood up then.  This was beginning
to make her uncomfortable. 

"I'm going to go to bed, Franklin.  You'll have to go now." 

"You haven't answered me, Dana.  What would be so wrong?"  Suddenly,
it was Franklin who felt another presence in the room.  It was gone as
quickly at it arrived.  His mind turned over and a whole new train of
thought occurred to him.  He put his hand on her arm again to stop
her.  "Do you feel so unworthy that you would deny yourself the one
thing you want most?  What have you done so wrong that you deserve to
be punished like this?"  He let go of her arm then but held her eyes
with his.  She didn't move.  "What are you afraid of, Dana?  That you
don't deserve it?  That you won't like it?"  Inspiration hit him once
more.  "That you won't be good enough?"  This last was said so quietly
she barely heard it in her ears.  It sounded loud and clear in her
head. She sat heavily on the bed, covered her face with her hands. 
The tears started slowly. 

"I am afraid, Franklin, but it's not what you think." 

Sitting gingerly beside her, he wanted so much to take her in his arms
and soothe her but that wasn't his job.  It was Fox's job.  He settled
for gently stroking her back. "Tell me, Dana."  He said quietly.  He
quickly looked up at Felicity, standing in the corner, her eyes
brimming with tears, too.  "That's what I'm here for, Dana, to help
you.  Let me help you.  Tell me." 

His voice was low and soothing, his hand on her back nothing more than
a comfort. She took a deep, shuddering breath.  "I do love him. 
You've made me realize that.  I'm afraid that......" she couldn't
articulate what it was she was afraid of. 

Franklin supplied the words.  "You're afraid that you will lose who
you are, that you will become just a part of him?  That your love will
consume you and you will cease to be the Dana that he knows and
loves?"  She nodded.  He smiled.  "That's what love is all about,
Dana.  You lose yourself in his eyes, his smile.  You become part of
his heart, part of his soul.  But he becomes part of yours, too.  You
both cease to be who you were.  You become a whole new identity.  Two
souls merged into one.  Two hearts beating together as one."  As her
tears began to dry, he couldn't resist adding "And all that crap."  He
was rewarded by a small snort of laughter.  It was progress.  "That's
not all of it, is it, Dana? Tell me the rest of it.  You need to face
the truth now."

She took a deep breath.  "I've never been very good at it.  That's one
reason Jack and I broke up.  He's had so much more experience than I
have.  What if....what if I can't ....please him?  What if I
don't.....?" 

Franklin interrupted her.  He spoke very quietly, very soothingly. 
"You will, Dana. Can't you see that in his eyes?  Can't you feel that
in his hands?  He loves you, Dana.  He wants you.  He needs you.  You
will please him.  You will make him happy.  He will make you happy." 
He paused for her reaction.  She was intent on his words, looking down
at her hands.  Even quieter now, he added "He will teach you."  She
looked up then, into those Mediterranean blue eyes.  His words echoed
in her head. 

With sudden clarity, she realized what she was most afraid of.  She
didn't want to have to admit to Mulder that she was unsure of herself. 
She didn't want him to know how inadequate she was. 

"You're not inadequate, Dana.  You are a beautiful, loving woman.  The
man who truly loves you will see only that." 

Franklin stopped talking then.  Their time was up, their job was done. 
He was a little disappointed at the outcome but he felt they had
succeeded.  Too bad they wouldn't be around to see the final results
but it was inevitable, he was sure of that.  He was sorry that he had
caused her such distress but he knew that, in the long run, it would
serve her well.  Felicity would have one more chance, then the matter
was out of their hands.  He knew that the Old Man would be watching
and he hoped that Eros would let him know how she was doing.  He
supposed he could send mortal Franklin to check on her but he wasn't
really sure if that was allowed.  He had never felt any need to stay
in touch with his subject before.  Maybe he would check on that in the
morning.  Maybe it would be allowed just this one time. 

"Franklin" Felicity's voice interrupted his reverie.  "Let her go. 
It's up to her now." Seen only by Franklin, Felicity's hand stroked
Dana's hair.  Her other hand rested on Dana's joined hands. 

Scully turned her head, looking directly at Felicity, not seeing her. 
She turned back to Franklin.  He was gone.  Somehow, she knew he would
not be back.  She didn't know where to go from here.  It had been so
easy to blame her new-found feelings on his influence but, if she
continued to feel this way, she was without direction. 

"Don't worry, Little One, I'll still be here" the unheard voice was
soft as a cloud. The room became warm as she stood.  With each step,
she found herself becoming warmer, more certain of her direction.  She
found herself being gently led to the closet. The negligee she had
bought so spontaneously whispered to her.  She dropped her robe and
slipped it on.  The satin was a balm for her fevered skin.  Sliding
the delicate robe over her shoulders, a new resolve settled over her. 
Two pairs of Mediterranean blue eyes and one pair of startling green
ones watched as she left the bedroom. Three mouths smiled, happy with
their success, happy for her happiness.  Then they were gone. 


Thursday, February 27th, 11:15 p.m. 

Something woke him up.  Some tiny sound or movement.  He opened his
eyes. There was someone in the room.  An angel, glowing white, was
gliding across the room toward him.  He knew it, he had died and gone
to Heaven.  No way, not Heaven, not him. If he wasn't in Heaven why
was there an angel was standing over him?  An angel who looked just
like.... 

"Scully?" he croaked, struggling to wake up. 

"It's me, Mulder."  His sleep-filled voice made her feel just a little
guilty for waking him.  "Sorry to wake you."  He lurched to his feet,
concern etched on his face. 

"That's okay, Scully.  Are you alright?"  He had both hands on her
shoulders, ducking his head to peer into her face. 

"I'm fine, Mulder.  I didn't mean to startle you."  She looked up into
his face, seeing nothing there but love and concern.  "I changed my
mind" she whispered. She kissed him, gently at first, then more
insistent.  Stepping away, she took both of his hands in hers.  "Are
you still up for it?" she teased.  It was then that he noticed what
she was wearing.  Very un-Scully-like.  Very attractive.  Very sexy. 

He was up for it.  Instantly.  He was most definitely up for it.  She
released one hand and led him by the other toward the bedroom.  He
stopped, tugged on her hand until she came back to him.  The moonlight
streaming through the open drapes shone on the white she wore, making
her appear to glow in the room.  Like an angel.  "Scully, are you
sure?"  He didn't want to take advantage of a weak moment.  Didn't
want to do anything she would regret.  Or hate him for.  "I don't
want....."  She silenced him with a finger on his lips. 

"I'm sure, Mulder.  I am absolutely, positively, totally sure." 

"Oh my God, Scully, you are so beautiful."  His discourse was
punctuated by feather-light kisses, "I love you so much" on her
forehead, "I have never.." on her temples, "...felt this way..." on
her eyelids, "...about anyone..." on her cheeks, "...in my life" on
her earlobes, "I will never..." on her lips, "...let you..." on her
neck, "...down." 

Scully felt her knees turning to jelly as his kisses traced the
neckline of the negligee.  His hands drifted over her back, down to
her buttocks, up to her shoulders, finally coming to rest on her face. 
He looked into her eyes.  All he could say was "Oh, Scully" before his
mouth descended on hers, hungry, desperate, insistent.  Her hands were
on his face, his chest, his back, his buttocks, his zipper.  She slid
his jeans over his hips.  He kicked them off.  In his underwear and
t-shirt, he picked her up and carried her the rest of the way to the
bedroom, putting her down gently next to the bed. 

The desk lamp was on, lending a soft illumination to the room that
just reached to the bed.  She reached toward it and he stopped her. 
"Please, Scully, leave it on.  I want to see you."  He slowly lowered
the housecoat off her shoulders, letting it drop to the floor. His
mouth was on hers again, his hands roaming, grasping the fabric of the
nightgown, bunching it up, raising it.  He released her lips just long
enough to lift it over her head, dropping it on the floor.  He pulled
off his t-shirt and reached for her again.  Her arms went around his
neck and their mouths met again.  He lifted her gently and deposited
her on the bed.  He stood over her for a moment, reveling in the sight
of her.  He slipped off his shorts and climbed onto the bed, lying
beside her, his hand moving slowly over her breasts, her belly. His
hand roamed lower, his eyes never leaving her face.  Her sharp intake
of breath told him that he had found the right spot.  He lifted
himself on one elbow and his lips followed where his hand had led. 

When he raised himself to straddle her, a choked sound escaped her. 
He froze. "Scully?"  He looked into her eyes and saw tears.  Every
fear, every uncertainty, every vulnerability shone forth from those
eyes.  It broke his heart to see it.  Afraid now, he repeated her
name. 

"Mulder" she whispered, "I'm afraid" a single tear spilled from each
eye, "please...  don't... hurt me." 

He kissed her tears.  "Never, baby.  Never".  He would rather tie it
in a knot than do anything to hurt her.  Shifting his weight to one
side, he cradled her cheek.  Her hand came up to cover his.  "Do you
want me to stop?" he whispered.  She shook her head, reaching up to
kiss him softly. 

"No" she whispered back, "I love you."  She kissed him again.  "I want
you." 


Friday, February 28th, 7:20 a.m. 

Scully woke slowly, disoriented for a moment.  She moved her head and
felt skin under her cheek.  Last night came back to her.  It had been
wonderful. She felt wonderful.  Lying with her head on his chest, his
arm around her shoulder, hers across his middle, she felt wonderful. 
She didn't remember a time when she had felt so relaxed, so free,
so.... Oh my God, she felt wonderful.  Slowly the numbers on her clock
pierced her consciousness.  They were going to be late for work. 

She moved then.  Easing his arm off her shoulder, she sat up.  She was
surprised to find that she was not at all self-conscious about being
naked.  She stroked his chest, moving her hand up to stroke his
bristly cheek.  "Mulder?" she said softly. 

"Yes, Scully?"  His voice was perfectly clear, wide awake. 

She chuckled.  "How long have you been awake?" moving into the circle
of his arms again.  She should have known he would be awake.  His hand
made lazy circles on her back, sending shivers through her body. 

"A while" he answered. 

"Why didn't you wake me up?"  She was running her hands over his ribs,
down to his hip.  She felt his nipple harden under her cheek.  She
turned her head and kissed it. 

"Because I liked what you were doing."  His voice had become low and
sultry, matching hers. 

"What was I doing?" 

"You were fondling me." 

"Oh" was all she said.  Her hand slid down to his outer thigh, moving
agonizingly slowly across to his inner thigh and up.  "Like this?" she
teased. 

"Mmmmm....." 

She squeezed gently.  "Like this?" 

"Oh, Jesus, Scully!" he gasped. 

She let go and pushed herself to sitting.  "Mulder, we're going to be
late." 

"For what?"  He was still having trouble catching his breath. 

"We have to go to work." 

"I don't."  His voice had almost returned to normal. 

"Why?"  She was fighting her way through the tangle of covers to get
off the bed. 

"I took the day off.  I told Skinner yesterday I wouldn't be in
today." 

Moving to the closet to get her robe, she stopped in mid-stride.  She
turned to look at him.  He was lying on his back, hands under his
head.  He opened one eye and turned his head just far enough to see
her.  Without another word, she put on her robe and strode out the
door.  Mulder scrambled to follow her, afraid he had said something to
offend her.  He arrived in the living room just in time to hear
something he thought he would never hear. 

Special Agent Dana Scully, brilliant and dedicated agent, trusted and
reliable employee, the enigmatic Doctor Scully, called in sick. 

Turning to him with an innocent smile, she said "Now.  Where were
we?"=0CEpilogue

Friday, March 14th, 6:30 p.m. 

She was tired.  It had been a very long week and she was looking
forward to a little time away from work.  She planned to have a quiet,
relaxing weekend. She hoped Mulder would co-operate. 

Mulder sat at his desk, reading over his report, tapping a pencil
repeatedly, following a rhythm that only he could hear.  It had been
an exhausting week.  In the last ten days they had re-opened and
wrapped up an old case and completed a new one.  He hadn't had a
decent night's sleep all week.  Six nights running he had arrived home
after midnight and crashed on the couch without even bothering to
undress. Now he had to take six pairs of pants to the drycleaner.  The
last t crossed, the last i dotted, he put the report aside.  He was
free to go home now.  After that, pizza, beer and sleep were all he
intended to get involved with for the rest of the night.  He looked up
from his desk to see Scully standing in the doorway.  She was leaning
against the jamb, arms folded across her chest, one ankle crossed over
the other, just watching him.  Waiting for something, apparently. 
Mysterious. 

"Something I can help you with, Agent Scully?" 

She pushed herself away from the door frame, slowly uncrossing her
arms as she approached his desk.  Her face gave nothing away.  It took
an eternity for her to cross the room, every step like thunder in his
ears.  In slow motion, she leaned forward and planted her hands on the
desk.  She leaned a little further forward until her face was no more
than a few inches from his.  Maybe she didn't realize how much her
blouse gaped.  Mulder's eyes clung to her cleavage.  He couldn't help
himself, she was magnificent.  An index finger on his chin and a
little pressure upwards brought his eyes up to meet hers.  She still
had not spoken.  Very mysterious. 

In an environment where every word uttered in one office is very
likely heard in another, body language becomes very significant.  The
language Scully's body was speaking was definitely R-rated.  Or maybe
it was just his hearing.  He was afraid to try to interpret. 

"As a matter of fact, there is something" she said quietly, her face
deliberately blank, not a trace of a smile.  "It's kind
of.......personal."  The last word was said in a husky whisper that
sent a tingle from his hairline to his toes.  "Maybe we could discuss
it over dinner.....if you're free."  She was setting him up, he just
knew it.  She was waiting for him to take the bait.  No way.  He
wasn't going to bite this time. 

"Sure, Scully, I'm done here, let's go get some dinner."  So much for
resolve.  What a wimp.  He took the bait, hook, line and sinker. 
Hell, he probably swallowed the whole damn rod!  He would pay for
this.  She was going to get him for sure. 

She stood, then, and walked out of the office, leaving him to follow
her.  He scrambled out of his chair, grabbed his jacket and followed
her, struggling into his jacket on the way.  As he hurried to catch
up, he reflected that he rather liked the view from here.  Scully was
acting very mysterious.  She definitely had something in mind and he
was determined to just wait and see what it was. 

Without asking his preference, she headed across the street to the
restaurant of her choice.  Seating themselves, they ordered dinner and
elected to have a beer first.  Mulder was a little unnerved by her
silent scrutiny. 

"So, Scully" he said at last "what is it you wanted to discuss?"  So
much for determination. 

"I have a little problem that I thought you might be willing to help
me with." 

There was a basket of bread sticks on the table.  Mulder bit into one. 
He was inexplicably nervous. 

"I'd be happy to, Scully."  He tried valiantly to keep his voice
casual as a Mona Lisa smile crossed her lips.  "What's the problem?" 
Be cool, man, take a breath, take a bite of the bread stick. 

Scully looked directly into his eyes as she raised her beer to her
lips. 
 She took a sip and lowered the bottle.  Without taking her eyes off
his, she said slowly and quietly, "I'm horny." 

Mulder choked on the bread stick.  Coughing and gasping for breath, he
saw her smile widen.  He looked at her, speechless. 

"Does that surprise you, Mulder?" 

"Well....yeah."  Good one, Mulder, very articulate. 

"Why?" 

Okay, get a grip, man.  Don't piss her off now.  That would be a very
bad thing.  "I just thought that....um....that one time was just....." 

Scully was serious now.  "I don't do one-night stands, Mulder."  A
sense of deja-vu came over her.  'How about once-a-week stands?'
echoed in her head. Where had she heard those words? 

Mulder mentally slapped himself back into some semblance of normalcy. 
He thought carefully about his next words.  "Scully, do you want to
get married?" 

"No" she answered.  No hesitation, no equivocation.  No scorn, either. 
That was a good sign. 

"Do you want to live together?"  He said it casually, as if it was
just another topic of conversation. 

She smiled for real, then.  Shaking her head, she replied "Mulder, we
would kill each other." 

"Okay, then, how about we just sleep together every now and then?" 
Their dinner arrived then.  After an interminable length of time, the
waitress departed.  Mulder looked at Scully questioningly, his raised
eyebrows asking the question again. 

Scully reached across the table and put her hand gently over his.  "I
could live with that" she said quietly. 

He could hardly believe his ears.  He could hardly believe his luck. 
A grin crept up on his face, mirroring hers.  He didn't know why
Scully had finally given in to these feelings but he was awfully glad
she had.  This was going to be a great weekend. 

Scully didn't know exactly why she was responding this way to feelings
she had always managed to repress but, for the life of her, she
couldn't figure out why she hadn't done it a long time ago.  This was
going to be a great weekend. 

"Scully?" 

"Yes, Mulder?" 

"I'm not really hungry." 

"Me neither." 

Hand in hand, they left the restaurant, leaving the waitress to puzzle
over their untouched plates and the twenty-dollar tip.