A chip. Another microchip implanted under the skin at the base of her neck, to replace the one she had removed, was now going to save her life.
Possibly.
Uncertainty now followed them, keeping them from sleeping and eating. Her minutes were ticking away. She was pale and tired as they waited to see if the man who dealt in lies, was for once telling the truth.
"She's not getting better, Fox," Mrs. Scully sobbed when she called him late one night. "I can't do this, Fox. She… please, God."
He said nothing. No words would repair the pain she was experiencing. He listened to her tears as his penance, knowing this was on him and him alone.
"I'm sorry, Fox. I know you're hurting too. I know how you care for her. I don't understand how the chip will help, but I have my faith and that of your beliefs. I've learned that from Dana."
He covered his face and she heard his tears, softly murmuring to him through the phone line that it would be okay, it had to be. He hung up and drove to the hospital, needing to see her, no matter the hour.
Watching Scully sleep, he crumbled, unable to stand any longer. He had done all he could and his efforts were for naught as she lay dying before him. What was the point of any of it if he lost her? No deal he made would help her anymore than had been done previously. If she died… he would accept rotting in a jail cell as the easiest of punishments. Life without her was a prison sentence anyway. She was like oxygen in his lungs. He loved her.
Crying silently until he was empty, he wiped his face and laid his head in her hand, placing her other hand atop his head, as those she were bestowing a blessing upon him.
Don't be foolish, Mulder. You know what you need to do.
He nodded gently, holding her hand in place, and took a ragged breath. Moving her hand carefully, he placed it back on the bed and stood up. Kissing her temple softly, he brushed her hair back again and left the room, his decision made, his mind clear.
Pushing open her hospital room door, he smiled hesitantly, worried what he would find. She looked up and smiled and he stopped where he stood. He shook his head slightly and frowned, not understanding her happy smile. Touching the back of her neck, she smiled wider, nodding with tears in her eyes.
"It's working, Mulder," she sobbed out and he hurried toward her, collapsing onto the bed and pulling her into his arms.
Her body shook with sobs and he cried with her, holding her close. He put a hand to her neck and closed his eyes, believing he could feel the life force held beneath her skin.
It was working. She was going to live.