Title: Back Again Author: Cathey Scully Category: MSR, S, A Keywords: Mulder/Scully Romance Rating: R in later parts Spoilers: Seasons 1-8 but nothing that will give anything away. Archive: If you want, just tell me where. Feedback: Please! Even the shortest note is appreciated. CatheyScully@t... or Scully@g... Summary: The world is different, and he's trying to cope the best he can. Disclaimer: Mulder, Scully, and the rest of the usual X-Files characters aren't mine. However, Akila and Gina are. Notes: This is the third in my "Changed" series. I recommend that you read the first two to truly understand this one, but it's not required. The first is "Changed", and the second is "Home is". Thanks: To Rotem for being my bestest buddy in the world, to my sis Jay for generally being a great sis, to Jessica for reading and ordering me to write more, and to everyone who encourages me to keep wasting paper in my notebooks. * * * They'd been circling in the air for the past hour and a half, and frankly Fox Mulder was sick of it. He'd gotten called away on a case an hour before his daughter Akila's 2nd birthday party, and he'd been away since. In that time he'd missed his wife and his daughter dearly. Two years before, he and Scully had saved the world. She'd developed a vaccine against the alien virus using antibodies in his, her, and after her birth, Akila's blood. Mulder then took the vaccine to be mass-produced and they were able to immunize the population and cure the infected. Treaties were signed with the leaders of their alien attackers and after 6 months of hiding, Scully, Mulder and their infant daughter were able to go home. Mulder and Scully moved in together and were arranging marriage before Akila was a year old. Since Deputy Director Kersh had resigned, Mulder was able to get his position back. Both he and Scully worked limited hours so they could spend as much time with Akila as possible. Eventually Mulder decided to transfer from The X-Files to the VCU, but always made himself available to help Scully, Reyes and Doggett. Sometimes he missed the thrill of being out in the field, but after he was forced to leave town before Akila's party, and after spending an entire week without Scully, he longed to be home. Finally, the captain announced that within the next few minutes they would be making their final approach. Mulder sighed in relief and scrubbed his hand over his face, wishing that he'd had time to shave before catching his flight. After four days of nonstop working, his 5 o'clock shadow was more of a small beard. He was sure Scully would have something to say about it. She'd told him once that she wasn't fond of beards and liked his face nice and smooth. He laced his fingers together and found himself nervously twisting his wedding ring. What if something had happened while he'd been gone? What if- 'Stop it' he told himself. 'You're being irrational.' If something were wrong, Scully, or Skinner would have contacted him. Still, he couldn't place the strange heavy feeling in his gut. Mulder continued to mull over all that could be wrong until the plane pulled in at the gate and he eagerly disembarked, carrying his laptop bag by the strap on his shoulder. He breathed a sigh of relief when he saw her seated in a chair with her back to him. She was happily playing a game with Akila, who was strapped into her stroller. Akila spotted him before Scully did and squealed. "Daddy!" At her happy squeal Scully looked up and caught his gaze. They broke into grins and he surged forward, eager to be in her arms. She stood to receive him as he stopped in front of her and dropped his bag. Akila squealed and tugged on his pant leg to get him to free her from her stroller. Once he complied, she threw herself into his arms and giggled. He held her tightly and rested his rough cheek on her soft dark auburn hair. "I missed you so much Akila." He whispered, surprised to find tears in his eyes. "Miss you daddy." She told him. She gasped when her small hand came into contact with his chin. "Rough." She whispered. "Yep. Daddy didn't get a chance to shave." "In how long?" Scully asked teasingly. Mulder grinned up at her and sat Akila back in her stroller. He stood and Scully reached for him immediately. He settled her into his arms. "Are you going to kiss me, or should I go shave first?" He smiled down at her. "Hmm. Tough choice." Scully grinned and tilted her head up meeting him in the middle. They kissed tenderly, making up for the days that they'd been separated. Scully felt Mulder pull her as close as he could and when they broke apart, Mulder smiled and rested his forehead on Scully's. "God I've missed you." His voice was husky with emotion. "Mmm yeah." Scully agreed. "How're you feeling? Is everything okay?" Mulder asked, running a hand down her belly. Scully smiled and rested her hand atop his on her six month pregnant stomach. "I'm feeling okay. We're just fine. I've had a lot of, things, that I've needed you to take care of." Scully smiled innocently. Mulder leaned down very close to her ear and whispered, "Let's go home and I'll try to make it up to you then." "I'm all for it except..." "Except what?" Mulder asked, the feeling of dread returning to his stomach. "We have a meeting with Skinner." "Now?" Mulder whined in a tone that reminded her of Akila. Scully nodded apologetically. "Sorry Mulder, you have about as much time as it takes to shower and shave. Specifically shave." Scully gave him a squeeze. "I got it." Mulder sighed. "Okay. Let's go home so I can change and get to the meeting." Mulder pushed the stroller as they walked. Scully had looped her arm through his and settled her head on his shoulder. Mulder smiled slightly and glanced down at Akila. She was asleep with her head lolling to one side, propped up against the rail of her stroller. "How was the case?" Scully asked. "It was okay. We caught the guy. He was really sick. I don't really want to talk about it. How'd the party go? I'm sorry about having to leave." "It couldn't be avoided. They wanted the best on the case and they got him." Mulder smiled at Scully's compliment and opened his mouth to speak when he was clapped on the back. "Nice work Spooky. Thanks for joining us. We woulda been out there for another two weeks or more had you not joined us." Mulder and Scully turned to face the speaker. It was a fellow agent that they recognized having worked on several task forces with him. Scully dropped Mulder's arm and squeezed his hand. "Stay here with Akila and talk. I'll be back." Scully leaned up to receive a kiss and headed off to the bathroom. "Thank you Agent Carter." Mulder replied graciously, shaking the man's hand. "You're the one who did all the work. You should get the credit." Mulder was surprised. He hadn't heard those words uttered by anyone but Skinner and Scully in years. "Thanks." He spoke semi-warily. "So, how're the X-Files?" "I don't know." Mulder shrugged, his voice holding no bitterness. "Technically my office is still in the basement, but I'm off the X-Files." "Never thought I'd hear that come out of Fox Mulder's mouth. So you have no contact with the division?" "I didn't say that. I just said I'm not assigned to the X-files anymore. My wife is head of the division, and we share an office, so I do see the files." "Ahh." Carter chuckled. Mulder motioned for Agent Carter to sit on a bench. The two men sat and Mulder turned Akila's stroller around so that she was facing him. He picked up one of her chubby toddler hands and ran his thumb over her knuckles. "What did Agent Scully say her name was?" "Akila." "How old is she?" "She's two." "She's cute." "Thanks." "Do you know what you're having now?" "Nope. We decided that we wanted it to be a surprise." "Does Agent Scully have any impressions? Cause when my wife was pregnant, she knew beyond a doubt that it was a boy." "I think," Scully's voice broke through. "That it's a girl. But don't quote me on it." "Well, congrats on either. And good work again." "Thanks." Mulder resumed studying Akila's face. "I should be going, got a plane to catch. See ya Agent Mulder, Agent Scully." As Carter walked away, Scully turned to Mulder and he saw that her eyebrow was nearly in her hair. "What was all that?" "Nothing, he was just congratulating me for my first big break since getting my ass canned. He also asked about Kila and the basketball you swallowed." Mulder teased. "I heard that part." "That was it." Mulder stood and grabbed Scully's hand. After giving her a slow kiss, he pushed Akila's stroller and led her out to the parking lot and drove them home. End of Part 1 Part 2 They ended up being late for the meeting. Mainly because they couldn't find a babysitter for Akila. So she ended up coming with them. She was still napping as Scully pushed her stroller through the FBI building. "Any ideas as to what this is about?" Mulder asked straightening his tie. Scully shook her head. "Skinner didn't say on the phone. I hope it's not another case." "Me too, Scully." ~ ~ ~ "You want me to go where?! To do WHAT?! What the hell did I do now?!" Mulder raged, jumping to his feet in front of Skinner's desk. Scully looked up at him and touched his arm. "Calm down Mulder, let Skinner talk." "No, I will not calm down! He's asking me to leave you for almost 6 months to go to Arkansas of all places, to teach a class!" Mulder sat when he caught the look on Scully's face. She reached out and took his hand. "I know what's going on Mulder. I'm as unhappy about it as you are," Scully soothed, running her fingers lightly over the bones in Mulder's hand. "But getting upset isn't going to change anything." "Thank you Agent Scully. It's nice to know that some things don't change." Skinner remarked dryly. Scully cracked a small smile but said nothing and simply squeezed Mulder's hand tighter, resting their joined hands on her belly. The baby kicked under their palms and Mulder smiled. His joyful expression quickly turned serious. "Sir, please don't make me do this. You want me to be gone long enough to miss my child's birth. I can't, I won't miss that." "Agent Mulder, I'm very aware of your commitments at home, but you are by far the most qualified agent we have to take this assignment." "What about a transfer?" Scully asked. "Agent Scully?" "For me," Scully clarified. "A temporary transfer to the field office where Mulder will be, and when he's done, I transfer back here." "No." Skinner answered quickly. "What? Why the hell not?" Mulder asked. "It's just a teaching job, right?" At Skinner's silence, Mulder stood again. "What aren't you telling us?" "You'll be undercover. You're to have no contact with Agent Scully." "No. I'm not doing it." "Agent Mulder-" Skinner warned. "Sir, this is my wife. Don't ask me to leave her." Mulder reached for Scully's hand. "Mulder, I'm very aware of your marital status." "Sir, please let Agent Mulder and me talk about this." Scully began calmly. "Since I am his wife I feel that I should be involved in the decision making process." "That sounds reasonable. You have an hour. Report back here and we'll set the appropriate course of action." "Thank you sir." Scully stood and shifted her maternity suit before turning to Mulder and motioning for him to follow her as she pushed Akila's stroller out of Skinner's office. When they got to the office that they shared, Scully lifted Akila out of her stroller and settled into her desk chair with Akila in her arms. Her daughter stirred and opened her eyes tiredly. "Mommy." She whispered. Scully pressed her lips to Akila's forehead. "Go back to sleep sweetie. Daddy and I have something we need to talk about." "Kay." Akila slurred. Scully gave her miracle baby a kiss before turning to Mulder. "Mulder, think about all the trouble you'll be in if you refuse this assignment." "I don't care Scully." "You should." "I know. I just, I don't want to take this case. I have this bad feeling." "What type of bad feeling?" Scully asked. "Like something's gonna happen to you. It started when I was on the plane. I'm not talking a little bad feeling; I'm talking deep twisting gut bad feeling." "Mulder," "I know it's absolutely irrational. Maybe it's about the baby. But you heard what he said. I'd probably be gone past the baby's birth. Scully, I missed most of your pregnancy with Akila, please don't make me miss this one." "It's not really that wonderful Mulder. My breasts are leaky, my ankles are swollen, I'm completely bloated, and my sex-drive is on overload." "And you're absolutely radiant." Mulder finished, stooping down to kiss her. "Hey, I don't mind that your sex-drive is the way it is. I'm going to be sorry to see it go." Mulder grinned as Scully covered their sleeping daughter's ears. "Not in front of Akila, Mulder." She admonished gently. "Mm, so put her down so I can really tell you what I think." Mulder leered suggestively. "Stop trying to distract me. Mulder, bad feelings aside and all, think about all the benefits that taking this case could have for your career." "I don't care Scully. I don't want to be on the 'fast track' or whatever they're calling it." "Mulder, I know this is a hard decision to make, but I think you should take it." "You what?!" "Hear me out, please. Mulder, you're brilliant. So what if that six month estimate is made less?" "What if it isn't? No contact for six months Scully." "We can find a way. We always do." "I love you." Mulder leaned in kissing the corner of her mouth gently. "I know." Scully took a deep breath and spoke. "Mulder, take the assignment. If you're worried about missing the baby's birth, I'll demand that Skinner calls you back the moment I go into labor." "You're sure?" "Yes." She took his hand and stroked his fingers. "Besides, we never know if I might mysteriously find my way to Arkansas." She grinned. "As long as you promise that you'll stay safe." "Safe and sound." "Well, safe anyway." Scully giggled and pulled him close. He wrapped his arms around her and Akila. "I guess we should go back up to Skinner's office." "Yeah. Let me go see if Monica and John are in their office. I want to leave Akila with them because I don't want her to wake up and hear us discussing this." "Good idea." They left Akila with her godparents and continued to Skinner's office. He told them that they had the weekend, but Mulder was booked on an early evening flight. They decided to take the rest of the day off and go home. When they got home, they woke Akila up long enough to tell her about Mulder leaving on Sunday. Then she went to play in the living room and fell asleep again. "Wake Akila up, Mulder. It's lunchtime and I don't want her sleeping all day." Scully ordered, giving Mulder's hair a gentle tug from where his head rested on her ever-disappearing lap. "Right, okay." Mulder clambered off the couch and over to Akila's Fisher Price play house. He opened the door and crawled inside, finding Akila asleep on her stomach. He rubbed her back gently. "Kila, Kila sweetheart, wake up. Mommy says it's lunchtime. Wake up baby girl." He coaxed. Akila's eyes opened slowly and she focused her brilliant green eyes on him. "Hey. Sleep well?" She nodded and held out her arms to be lifted up. Mulder complied and pulled Akila out of her house. She buried her face in his neck. "Daddy." "Yes Kila?" "Wuv you." She whispered. "I love you too Akila." He held her tightly and kissed her hair. As they entered the kitchen, Mulder shifted so he could look at Akila. "High chair or big girl chair?" Akila simply snuggled closer to Mulder. "Daddy chair." Scully looked over at him and chuckled. He grinned at her and sat with Akila in his arms. His daughter sprawled limply across his chest and he gazed down at her. "What's wrong Kila?" he asked, rubbing her back. She slipped her thumb into her mouth and Mulder tugged on it gently. "What's this for?" he teased. She set her head back on Mulder's shoulder and said nothing. Mulder looked worriedly over at Scully. She's set Akila's favorite down on the table and Akila hadn't even looked up. Scully sat in the chair next to Mulder and brushed Akila's hair away from her eyes. "What's wrong baby girl? Can you tell mama?" Scully asked and Akila shook her head. "Why not? Do you not feel well?" Akila nodded. Scully leaned over and checked her temperature. "She has a fever Mulder." Scully told him. "What else hurts honey?" Akila pointed toward her ear. "She might have an ear infection, but we'll have to wait and see." Scully stroked her hair. "Let mommy get you some medicine so you'll feel better." After giving her medicine and convincing her to eat a little food, Scully and Mulder put their baby to bed. Although she didn't sleep much, Scully stayed with Akila alternately talking to her and reading aloud. "Mama?" Akila asked. "Yes Sweetie?" Scully brushed her fingers over Akila's face. "Daddy going 'way 'gain?" "Yes. Daddy has to go out of town again soon." "He come back?" "Of course he'll be back. And while it might seem like he's gone for a long time, he'll be back before we know it." "Promise?" "Of course, would mommy lie to you?" Mulder broke in, perching on Akila's bed. She smiled and reached her hands out and touched his face. Mulder smiled and leaned over, kissing her nose. "How're you feeling little one?" "Icky." Akila stuck out her tongue for emphasis. Mulder and Scully chuckled and Scully ran her hand down Akila's arm. "Her fever's down. And she says her ear doesn't hurt anymore. I think a little rest is all she needs." Scully looked down at Akila. "Okay sweetie, do you want Daddy to stay with you while I go make dinner?" "Don't want dinner." "Don't be that way Akila Tristin." Mulder ordered gently. "I'll stay with you until you're asleep okay Kila?" She nodded and reached up to hug her mother. "Feel better sweetie." Scully whispered, kissing Akila's cheeks. "I love you." "Love you mommy." End of Part 2. Part 3 Mulder left the next evening because he needed to get there and sleep for a while before his first class on Monday. Skinner had brought over all of the papers Mulder needed to assume the name of David Roberts, and instructed Scully not to go to the airport with Mulder in case someone on his flight recognized her. Instead they decided to say goodbye from home. They stood out in front of their building with Scully carrying Akila despite Mulder's offers to take her. Mulder slid his suitcase into the trunk of the car and shut it. He settled against the bumper and held out his arms to them. Akila grabbed for her father and Mulder settled her on one side and pulled Scully close on the other. After a few minutes of keeping his face buried in Scully's hair, Mulder spoke. "I should get going." "Yeah." "No Daddy." "I've got to Akila. Will you be a good girl and not give mommy too much trouble and help her when she doesn't feel good?" Akila sniffed. "Yes Daddy." "That's my girl." Mulder pressed his lips into her hair. He then turned to Scully. "Skinner gave me a beeper. The number is on my bedside table, but it's only for emergencies." "I know, I saw." Scully was surprised to find tears in her eyes. Mulder kissed her gently. "I love you Scully." She smoothed her fingers over his face. "I love you too. You can't wear your wedding ring can you?" "No, but it doesn't mean I won't wear it on my own time." He smiled and kissed her deeply. "I have to go." He kissed Akila's forehead and handed her back to Scully. "Daddy, wait." Akila protested and demanded to be let down. She tugged on his hand and pulled him over to Scully's car. He opened the door and she climbed in, grabbing her stuffed cat and handing it to him. "Take kitty." Mulder scooped her up and carried her back to his car. He placed her on the hood and asked. "Are you sure you want me to take her with me?" "Uh huh." Akila nodded. "Thank you Akila. I'll miss you so much." He hugged her tightly and Scully gently pried Akila away and held her baby as she began to cry. Mulder sucked in a breath and bent to kiss Scully again. "Love you Scully." And then he was sliding behind the wheel and driving off. Scully watched his car until it left sight and turned around walking inside, her daughter still crying in her arms. * * * It had been almost two months. Two months since he'd held, kissed, and spoke to his wife. Two months since he'd cuddled with his little girl, since he'd heard her sweet, adorable laugh; two months since she'd crawled into his lap and begged to be read a story. Scully and Akila were the center of the universe and he found himself aching for them. Mulder enjoyed teaching, even if he was pretending to be someone else. His students were attentive and incredibly bright. They seemed to like what he instructed and he'd ruled out any of them as suspects. Most of the faculty of North Jameson High had been ruled out as well. Except for Richard King. He had a medical degree and taught biology. His background alone suggested that he would have the training to have committed the murders. Hoping that once they got to know each other, Richard would confide something, Mulder was trying to befriend the man. So far all he'd gotten was some typical guy talk about football and the best beers. That night however, Mulder was hosting a dinner party with some of the other teachers. He hoped that being in a group environment would draw Richard King out. "Hey David! Who's this sexy woman?" Mulder was shaken from his thoughts by Richard's curious voice. Mulder looked over at the photo that he was indicating; the picture of Scully with Akila a few days after Akila's birth. "That," Mulder noted the hint of pride in his voice. "Is my wife Sarah. The baby in her arms is our daughter Alina." "She looks familiar. I didn't know you were married." Janine, the attractive head of the math department rested her hand on his arm. He gave her a quick glance before turning back to the only picture of his family he had with him. "So where is this gorgeous woman? This place just screams bachelor." Richard asked jokingly. "She's, they're back in Maine. Sarah's pregnant and can't fly, doctor's orders. After the baby's old enough to fly, the three of them will move down here. I'm looking for a house right now, but because they wanted me to start teaching immediately, Sarah made me come down alone." "I'd love to meet her some time." Richard glanced at Mulder with a gleam in his eye that made Mulder's stomach lurch. "Do you miss them?" Janine asked, allowing Mulder to look away from Richard. "Everyday." Mulder answered truthfully. Later on, after everyone but Richard had left, Mulder found himself being bombarded with questions about his wife and daughter. After more than enough personal questions, Mulder was uncomfortable and changed the subject. After another two weeks of digging, Mulder had collected sufficient amounts of evidence to get a warrant to search Richard's place. The day he was going to submit it to the cops, Scully went into labor and paged him in the middle of his class. He managed to get a sub for the rest of the week and took off on a flight back to DC. He rushed to the hospital and up to the maternity ward immediately hearing Akila's delighted shriek before she launched herself into his arms. "Daddy!! I missed you! Did you miss me?" "Ohh Akila, I missed you so much. So much, sweetheart. I need to go see Mommy, will you let me go so I can see her?" Akila nodded and he set her back on the floor. She ran back to her grandmother and Mulder followed. He quickly hugged her and asked where Scully was. Maggie pointed him toward her room and he took off in a run. Scully's face lit up as he entered and she held out her arms to him. "Mulder," She whispered into his neck. "I told you I'd be here. Are you okay?" he pulled back and kissed her gently. "I'm okay. It's going to be awhile, they rushed me here as soon as the first contraction started." "They?" "Doggett and Reyes." "What do you mean Scully, you didn't want Reyes to deliver our second child too?" Mulder grinned. "Shut up, Mulder." Scully grinned and kissed him again. "So where'd they go?" Mulder asked. "Cafeteria, Doggett figured you'd be up soon." "Good thinking." Mulder held her close and rubbed her belly. Leaning down, he pressed his lips to her hospital gown covered abdomen. "Thanks for waiting for me baby." He moved back up to Scully's lips and kissed her again. "I missed you so much Scully." "I missed you too. Skinner kept me informed of the basics, that you were safe and everything." "Good. I asked him to at least do that for me, since he wouldn't let you come with me." Scully nodded and ran her hands over his face. "Go get Akila." "Yes ma'am." When Mulder returned his arms were full with the comforting weight of Akila. She reached out a hand to her mother and Mulder set her on the bed next to Scully. "Mommy okay?" Scully took Akila's hand, "Yeah baby girl. Mama's okay." She smiled as Akila snuggled close. Mulder leaned in and kissed Scully. "Did you ever think we'd be here, Scully?" "Not in a million years. But it's better than anything I could have dreamed up." Scully assured, taking a deep breath as a contraction came. Mulder kissed her brow. They stayed like that for a while until Scully's contractions began to come in force. Mulder took Akila back out into the hall with her grandmother and her godparents who had returned from the cafeteria. Two hours later, a very exhausted Scully and an equally emotionally tired Mulder welcomed their screaming child into the world. Before Mulder or Scully got to hold the baby, they whisked her off to be weighed, measured and cleaned. After which they returned her to her proud parents' arms. As Scully nursed, Mulder sat beside her and stroked the baby's cheek. "I forgot how small they are." "Akila was smaller. This one is at least two pounds heavier." "So I still did good?" "Always." Scully leaned forward to receive a kiss. "You pick her name. But nothing that starts with an A." "Okay." Mulder thought for a few moments. "Gina." "Why Gina?" Scully asked, switching the baby to the other breast. "What's your mom's middle name?" "Gina. Ohh, okay. So Gina what?" "I don't know. Genius takes time, be patient Scully." Scully snorted. "Before she's in college please Mulder." She smiled easily. "Alright miss smarty pants, Eve." "Why?" "That was my grandmother's name. I stayed with her a lot after my parents started having problems. She was one of the few people who didn't blame me for Sam's disappearance." "Then it's perfect. Hello little Gina Eve Mulder." Scully brushed her lips over her newborn daughter's cheek. "You're so sweet and adorable just like your sister Akila." "Speaking of, I want to go talk to her about everything. I don't think she quite understands what's going on." "Okay. Bring her in when you're done. Send my mom in now please." "Got it." Mulder kissed Scully again. She tenderly swiped his cheeks. "I love you Mulder." "Ditto." A little while later, Mulder carried Akila into Scully's hospital room. Scully was empty-handed and Mulder's gaze shifted to the crib situated between Scully and her mom. "She asleep?" he asked quietly. Scully nodded and Mulder rubbed Akila's back. "Kila, I want to see your little sister." "No." Akila mumbled. Mulder patted her back again. "Just a little peek." Mulder turned her around and leaned over the crib. Akila shifted and buried her head in his neck. "Don't want. Make go away." "We can't do that honey. Gina's here now." Scully broke in. Mulder felt Akila shudder as her cries began. Mulder held her tighter and turned around walking back outside so Akila wouldn't wake the baby. He sat down on a bench and settled her on his lap. "Akila, Akila sweetie, look at me. I know you're afraid that the new baby being here is going to change things. But sweetie, Mommy and I still love you and will always love you even with the new baby here. You're mommy's and my little baby, our miracle baby. Two years ago we were given a gift, guess who it was. We will always love you, even with Gina here." Mulder concluded, taking out his handkerchief and gently wiped Akila's eyes and nose. "You're my little girl and I love you Akila. I want you to remember that." Akila sniffed but didn't answer. Mulder seemed satisfied and cuddled her against his chest. She sniffed and hiccupped, taking deep breaths. Mulder pressed his lips to her hair. "Close your eyes baby girl." Akila clutched his shirt much in the same way she'd done as an infant. Mulder held her tightly until she was asleep. The week that Mulder stayed passed quickly. By the time he was leaving Akila was no more accepting of her little sister than she was on the day Gina was born. She avoided the baby and avoided her parents whenever they held Gina. She clung to her father when he wasn't with Gina and avoided her mother altogether. This cut Scully deeply, especially when she flat out refused to go to her mother after Mulder said goodbye. "I go with you Daddy." "No baby girl. You've got to stay here. Stay with mommy and Gina." "No!" Akila protested. "I want Daddy." "Then you need to let me go. The sooner I go, the sooner I come back. Okay?" Mulder begged her to understand with his eyes. "Okay Daddy." Akila agreed and Mulder kissed her forehead. "That's my girl. Come on, let me go say bye-bye to Mommy and Gina." Mulder led Akila over by the hand. Akila hung back a little as Mulder bent and kissed Gina's head softly -from where she rested in Scully's arms. "Bye-bye baby." He straightened and looked over Scully's features. "You okay with this?" "I'm not thrilled. But go do what you have to do and hurry home." She smiled and freed one hand to wrap around his neck and drag his lips to hers. "You got it Scully." Mulder backed away and bent to receive a tearful Akila. "I'll see you soon sweetie. Be good okay." "Will Daddy." Mulder released her. "Akila come stand with me, I don't want you in the street." Scully held out a hand to her. "No." Akila refused. She crossed her arms and sat down, ignoring her mother's presence. Mulder shot Scully a look. "I'm sorry, I tried." "I know. Go on now Mulder." Scully shooed Mulder off and sat down next to Akila, shifting Gina and trying to get the toddler to talk to her. The flight back to Arkansas was tense. Mulder spent the entire time worrying about Akila and Scully. He didn't know how to get through to Akila. His training told him that she was having a hard time reconciling not being the only child anymore, and so far she was handling it horribly. He knew that she was angry at Scully because the amount of time that she was required to spend with the baby meant less time to spend with Akila. For the first time in over a week, Mulder felt the sick feeling return to his gut. * * * He heard the click of the gun being cocked before he felt the barrel pressed into his temple. The cool metal nearly burned his skin. Then he heard the gruff voice. "Don't make a sound." He was pushed into the center of the living room. "You really thought I wouldn't recognize you? Wouldn't recognize her?" "I don't know what you're talking about." Mulder whispered, wincing as the gun was jammed harder into the side of his head. "Shut up. Don't play stupid with me Agent Mulder." End of part 3 Part 4 "Richard, what are you doing?" he asked, still trying to keep up the act. He was shoved forward roughly. "Sit." Richard King commanded. He laughed ironically. "You know, this was meant for her." "Who?" Mulder asked. "Her." Richard jabbed the gun toward Scully's picture. "Except she went and got pregnant again. So tell me, what was it? Did she keep it?" At Mulder's silence he screamed, "Answer me!" "It's a girl. And of course she kept the baby." "That's funny, she wouldn't keep it when we were together." "What?" "You didn't know that huh? Guess the wife was too ashamed to want to tell you about it. Call her and ask her, see what she says. Do it!!" "Forget it Richard. You're BSing me." "You only wish I was. Now, pick up the damn phone and call her." Mulder did as ordered, holding his breath and hoping that maybe Scully had taken the kids to her mother's or something. She answered on the fourth ring, right before the machine picked up. "Hello?" She was out of breath and he heard Gina whimpering in the background. "Hello?" Scully repeated. "Sc-Scully?" "Mulder? What are you doing? Is something wrong? You shouldn't be calling!" "Nothing's wrong. I just, I needed to ask you something." Mulder looked expectantly at Richard. He nodded in approval. "Okay..." Scully sounded confused. "How's Gina?" Mulder winced as the gun found its way back to his head. "She's colicky and Akila still won't talk to me." "Give her time, she'll come around. She's got so much of her mother in her that she needs some time to digest everything. I love you." Mulder gasped loudly. "What was that? What just happened?" Scully was instantly alert. "Nothing. I just cut myself making a sandwich." Mulder lied. "No you didn't." Scully accused. "Get to the point." Richard hissed in his ear. "Um, Scully. Did you, were you ever involved with anyone named Richard King?" "Yes." Mulder sucked in a breath. "What, what happened between you two?" "It was a long time ago, Mulder. We dated when I first started high school. He was the first guy I really seriously dated." "How seriously?" "Mulder," "Scully, I need to know. Did he get you pregnant?" "No! Of course not, Mulder. Where on earth did you get that notion?" "From him." "What?!" "Scully, tell me the truth." "I'm telling you the truth Mulder. I wouldn't lie to you. He didn't get me pregnant Mulder. I never slept with him, ever. When we broke up he didn't want to and I told him I was pregnant by another guy. I wasn't, but I was hoping I could scare him off. It didn't work and I eventually told him I'd had an abortion. He never spoke to me after that. Mulder, why all the questions about Richard?" Before Mulder could answer, Richard grabbed the phone from his hand. "Hello Dana dear. Remember me? How's the baby? It's so lovely to hear from you again. Considering all this is your fault." "What do you mean Richard?" Scully asked, trying to stall. "I hope you kissed your husband before he left, because he's not coming back." Richard sing-songed in a sickeningly sweet tone before simply hanging up. * * * As the dial tone met her ear, Scully cursed and looked around. She hefted Gina tighter against her and moved into the other room to put her in her crib. Scully moved into Akila's bedroom and found her playing on the floor. She squatted down on her haunches. "Akila sweetie, I need you to get your shoes on so we can go out." "No." Akila defied. "Yes." Scully's voice was firm as she lifted Akila up into her arms. She found Akila's shoes with relatively little difficulty and slipped them on her protesting daughter. Once she was done with that, Scully carried Akila into the living room. As she settled her on the couch, Scully ran her hands over Akila's head. She took a deep breath and went to gather Gina's things before getting Gina and taking Akila's hand and going out to the car. She was at the Hoover Building in record time. Scully carried Gina gracefully with one hand, and pushed Akila's stroller with the other one. She went straight up to Skinner's office and pushed past his secretary. Her superior was on his feet in an instant. "Agent Scully, what are you doing here? You're on leave." "Something's wrong. Mulder's in trouble." Scully spoke, her voice coming out surprisingly strong and confident. "What do you mean?" "He called me and asked some very strange questions about a man named Richard King." "His suspect." Skinner mumbled to himself. "And then, that man, Richard King took the phone and threatened Mulder's life." "Agent Scully, calm down." "No I will not calm down! Are you not listening to me? Mulder is in danger." "I heard you. Let me make some calls and get the police out to his apartment." Skinner was already dialing. As soon as he hung up, Scully settled heavily down into a chair and shifted Gina. Thankfully the baby was asleep. Akila, as if sensing her mother's distress, reached out and gave her pant leg a mighty tug. "Hungry Mommy." Scully looked down in surprise. "I'm sorry sweetie, mommy doesn't have much for you to eat. Here, have some cheerios and we'll get dinner soon." Scully dug a bag of cereal out of Akila's rarely used diaper bag. They were working toward getting Akila potty trained before sending her to pre-school. Akila eagerly dug into the cheerios and Scully tousled her hair affectionately. "Congratulations." Skinner's voice broke through her thoughts. "What's her name?" "Gina Eve." As Scully answered, Akila stopped eating and looked up at her sister in Scully's arms. "Lovely." Skinner boomed. "Hello Akila." "Hi." Akila whispered, going back to eating. "Do you like having a little sister?" Skinner asked. "No." "It's kind of a sore subject right now, sir." Scully told him, stroking Akila's hair back away from her face. "Ahhh." Skinner nodded. "You want out?" Scully asked Akila. Akila nodded and held her arms out to be picked up. Scully looked around for a place to set Gina down. "I'll take her." Skinner held out his arms to take Gina. Scully set her in his arms and lifted Akila up. Scully held Akila tightly and kissed her cheeks gently. Akila sighed sleepily and slipped her thumb into her mouth before closing her eyes. Scully rocked slowly from side to side and hummed the song that used to put Akila to sleep to her. It worked like a charm and once she was through humming, Scully and Skinner settled into silence. The quiet was soon broken be the phone ringing. "Yes." He answered briskly. "I see, yes, she's right here. I'll inform her, yes thank you. Someone will be down soon. Goodbye." "What? What is it?" Scully asked rapidly. "Scully." Skinner took a deep breath and looked down at Gina, asleep in his arms. "Mulder's been shot. They're transporting him to the hospital now. I'll be on the first flight down." "What?! Where was he shot? How's his prognosis? Was hew conscious?" "I don't know. They didn't say where he was shot, and I don't think he was conscious." Skinner settled Gina against his shoulder and rounded his desk to squat in front of Scully. "I'll be on the next flight out, so I can see him as soon as I can." "I'm going with you." "No Scully, you can't fly with the baby, and she's too young for you to leave alone, even for a few days. Trust me, please, I'll make sure they take care of him." "Fine." Scully relented unhappily. "Good, but first, tell me about Richard King and why he relates to you." Scully took a deep breath. "We dated in high school. I wanted to break it off, but he didn't." "You did break it off though." "Yes. But only through a great deal of deceit." "Why did you want to break it off?" "He was very possessive. Sometimes he could be frightening." "Alright." Skinner stood, "let me help you to your car. I'll have Kim reserve a ticket for me and I'll head straight to the airport." "Thank you." Scully spoke gratefully, and gently placed Akila back in her stroller. Grudgingly, Scully waited at home for news. After making a light dinner for herself and Akila, she settled on the couch with her oldest daughter. She'd already nursed Gina and put her down for a few hours so there was nothing to distract her from Akila. "Hey baby girl, still mad at me?" Scully stroked Akila's hair. "No." Akila reached for her mother. "I love you mommy." Scully gathered Akila in her arms and held her tightly. "I love you too Akila. I could never, ever stop loving you. You're my baby. You're so special to me in so many ways. When you're a little older I'll explain why. Please, please don't think that I love you any less because we have Gina now." Scully tightened her arms and kissed Akila's hair. "I'm sorry for being mean." "I know. You were just scared. You're just like your daddy, do you know that?" "I want daddy to come home." "I know you do." Scully soothed, hoping Skinner would call her soon. As if by sheer will, the phone rang. Scully snatched it up and held her breath. "He's okay." Skinner spoke kindly and Scully released the lungful of air she had. "How are his injuries?" "He has a mild concussion, and the bullet went cleanly through his shoulder, pretty much. They took him into surgery and patched him up, giving him some blood to replace what he'd lost. They just now let me see him." "What about Richard?" Scully asked quickly. "Dead. Yours husband is a crack shot when he wants to be. Mulder's place was wired, so he should be clear from all charges, since Mulder says Richard confessed." "Good. Why didn't you call sooner?" "I figured you'd like to talk to him yourself." "He's awake?" "Yes." She heard Skinner pass the phone and she pressed her lips to Akila's forehead. "Hey, Mulder's scratchy voice filled her ears. "How're you feeling Mulder?" "I've been better, but I've also been worse too." "That you have. How's your shoulder?" "It's okay. Felt better after you shot me, but I'll live. Skinner thinks he can spring me tomorrow and have me home by noon." "Only if your doctor says you can." Scully ordered. Akila shifted in her lap. "Would you like to talk to Akila?" "Sure." Scully handed the phone to Akila and began to play with her hair. "Daddy?" Akila asked. "Yeah sweetheart, it's me." "Mommy was scared." "I know she was." Mulder answered, trying to keep the surprise at Akila's casual mention of her mother out of his voice. "Would you give her a hug for me and tell her I'm sorry?" "Okay Daddy. Love you." "Love you too Akila." Akila handed the phone back to Scully, giggling. She took it and hugged her daughter. "She's not angry anymore." Mulder greeted her again. "I know. I'm glad. We can work everything else out when you get home." "Absolutely. There's something else we need to discuss, but it can wait." "Okay Mulder." Akila yawned in Scully's lap. "It's time for bed, call me tomorrow please." "Will do, night. Kiss the kids for me." "Get some rest Mulder." Scully hung up and turned to Akila, lifting her giggling form up. "Time for bed baby girl." End of part 4 Last part! Part 5 The next morning, Scully was awakened for the fourth time by Gina's cries. She tumbled out of bed and bent over Gina's crib. She brushed her fingers down Gina's arm before lifting her up. "Shh Gina, Mommy's here. Are you hungry? Is that what you are? I think you are. Yes." Scully cooed. She unbuttoned her pajama top and started to nurse. When she was about done she lowered herself into the rocker and swayed gently, trying to coax Gina back to sleep. After half an hour, Scully changed her and Gina slipped into slumber. She then settled herself back in bed and dozed off. The next thing she was aware of was Akila climbing in and snuggling up next to her. "Mommy, mommy, wake up." "Just a few more minutes little one." "No. Up now." "Fine, fine. I'm up." Scully groaned and pulled Akila into her arms as she sat up. "Want breakfast?" "Yeah!" Akila squealed. "Shhh, indoor voice Akila." Scully sat watching Akila eat when the baby started to cry again. Akila stiffened and Scully brushed her bangs away. "Remember what I told you last night. You're my little girl and nobody can replace you and make me love you less." "I know." Akila whispered. As Gina's cries increased in pitch, Scully lifted Akila up by her underarms and settled her on her hip. They walked into Scully and Mulder's bedroom and over to the crib. Scully leaned over with Akila and gazed down at Akila. Scully rubbed her stomach gently and reached around for her pacifier. After Gina was sucking happily on her pacifier, Scully cradled Akila closer. "See? She's not so bad." "No." Akila rested her head on Scully's shoulder and wrapped her arms around her neck. "My mommy." "Yes, I'm you mommy. But I'm her mommy too." "When she go away?" "Never baby girl. When she gets older, she'll be more fun. I promise." "Knock, knock." Mulder tapped lightly on the door. At the sound of his voice, Scully turned. Akila squealed happily and squirmed to be let down. She ran over to Mulder and hugged his legs. "Daddy!" Mulder crouched and hugged her tightly with one arm. "Be careful of daddy's shoulder, sweetheart." Scully called. Mulder stood, gripping Akila around the waist against his good shoulder. "I'm fine Scully. Besides, what's a little pain if Kila's happy?" Mulder asked grinning. "Just remember that comment, Mulder. When she's 16, you'll be eating your words." "And I'll ask for ketchup." Mulder settled Akila on the bed and neared Scully. She shook her head, exasperated. "You weren't supposed to be home for another two hours." She accused. "What can I say?" Mulder drew her by the waist. "I missed you too much." "The staff got tired of you, didn't they?" "Yeah." Mulder pouted playfully. Scully laughed and stroked his cheek. "I'm so glad you're safe." "Me too." Mulder leaned in and kissed her gently, savoring the feel of her lips against his. Akila giggled behind them. "Let me look at your shoulder Mulder." Scully whispered. "Ooo, Scully behave. There are children in the room." Scully raised an eyebrow and pushed him away gently. He sat on the bed and Akila scooted closer to him. He smiled and leaned down so she could kiss his cheek. "Missed you daddy." "You saw me yesterday little one." He reminded her teasingly, reaching out to tickle her. "Hold still Mulder." Scully ordered unbuttoning his shirt. "Bossy, bossy, bossy." Mulder mocked, but followed her orders. "Did any one ever tell you you're bossy Scully?" he winced as she prodded his shoulder. "Ow Scully that hurts." "Don't be such a baby." She teased. She sucked in a breath as she spied his bruised shoulder from under the bandage. "It's not as bad as it looks." He assured her. Akila hid her face in his side and Mulder glanced down at her. "I'm okay Kila." "I don't see any signs of infection, but let me go get more ointment to put on your shoulder." Scully brushed her lips over his gently. "Daddy hungry?" Akila asked. Mulder thought for a moment. "Yeah, I guess I am." Mulder lifted Akila up with his good arm and carried her into the kitchen. As he set Akila down, he heard Scully call him. "Mulder, come back here!" "I'm getting a sandwich Scully. I'll be back in a second." "Fine. I'll follow you." Scully entered the kitchen with a tube of and bandages in her hands. "Akila sweetie, go watch TV while I talk to daddy." "Okay mommy." Akila clambered down from her chair and hugged Scully tightly. Scully gave her a gentle squeeze and with a soft pat on the bottom, sent her off to the living room. Mulder and Scully stared at each other for a moment before Mulder lowered himself into a chair. Scully quickly went to work on his shoulder. "Gina asleep?" He asked. "Yeah, she just wanted a little attention." After a few moments of silence, Mulder spoke. "Guess I'm lucky Richard was a crappy shot, huh?" Scully hummed and brushed her lips over his neck. "Why are you angry with me?" She asked, pressing the bandage onto his shoulder. "I'm not." "I see it in your eyes, Mulder. Tell me what I've done." "You haven't done anything Scully. It's misdirected anger." "So who are you angry with?" Scully asked, smoothing down the bandage on his front. At his silence, Scully nodded. "Thought so. It's about Richard, isn't it?" Mulder nodded. Scully ran a hand through his hair gently. "Mulder, Richard was scary. I stayed with him for months longer than I wanted to, simply because I was scared to leave. He demeaned me, and he threatened me, and at the time, I saw no problem with what I did. I was scared Mulder." "I know you were Scully." Mulder took her hand. "You might want to sit down, when I tell you this." "What?" Scully asked wearily. "Skinner and the local cops searched Richard's place and they found pictures." "Pictures?" "Of you. Thousands of pictures of you dating back to high school. Some of the later ones had you with me, lots of them in fact." "Was, was Akila in any of them?" Mulder nodded grimly. "The most recent of them had you pregnant with Gina." "He was stalking us." "He was obsessed with you, Scully." "Why?" "I looked into his file. When he was 8 years old, his mother abandoned him after having multiple affairs on his father. His dad abused him until he was 13, when he murdered his father. It was officially ruled accidental, but he did it. When you broke up with him, it brought back too many memories of his mother. For years after that, up until he moved to Arkansas, he was pretty invisible. With the exception of the pictures of course." "What happened after that?" "He got a job at the high school and started having relations with his female students. They were the first victims." "What was the crime?" "He got them pregnant, and when they wanted to terminate the pregnancy, or give the baby up, he killed them. He knew that the bureau would get involved and hoped that we'd be assigned the case, when he killed the last girl. She was the daughter of one of the agents in the Arkansas field office." "He obviously didn't know that we weren't partners anymore." "He knew. I think he was counting on Skinner letting you come with me." "He wanted to kill me." "And I was the next best thing." Mulder finished, bringing her hand to his lips. "What about the pictures?" "The police have most of them still, for evidence. Skinner said that he was petitioning for them to be transferred to the bureau and released into my custody." "And the ones the police don't have?" Scully asked. "They're in my bag. They're rather upsetting." "What are they?" "They're of us...together. Of us making love. Us in bed." "From where?!" "The compound in Indiana." "He was there?" "From what I've pieced together, yes. Not for very long, though. I never worked with him. He showed up when you and Akila came." "I can't believe this." Scully whispered. "He's gone Scully. He won't be back." Mulder gave her hand a gentle tug. "I on the other hand..." he grinned and she stood, wrapping her arms around his neck, trying to stay clear of his injured shoulder. "Skinner offered me a teaching job. New recruits going into the VCS. The class is at the Hoover Building, and I can still have my office in the basement with you, but I told him I'd talk with you first before talking the assignment." "You don't want to be out in the field anymore?" She asked leaning close so that her breath ruffled his hair. "No, I think I'll live vicariously through you. I'm not as young as I used to be." "Aww, poor old man." Scully teased. "Take the job. You said you like teaching, and I can't think of another agent better suited to teach new recruits." "Wow, Scully. You and Skinner must have ESP. That's exactly what he said. I think we should open an Xfile here." Mulder grinned and kissed her gently. "Thank you." Scully whispered when they broke apart. "For what?" Mulder asked, running his hand down her back. "Coming back to me." "Always Scully." Mulder answered, tucking her close. He could stay like that forever. And he planned to, because he wasn't leaving his family again. END!!!!!! Feedback please! -- Cathey Ratty and Bo-- All our sites: http://www.expage.com/rattyandbo