Part 22
The next day the agents awaken to a rainy, dreary day. They pack up their belongings and make their way to the airport. Unfortunately they have to go on standby. They visit a duty-free shop and pick up the souvenirs on the Lone Gunmen's list and then take seats in a coffee shop as they wait for the plane. "Well, Mulder this has been a real adventure", says Scully taking a sip of her coffee. "I really do have a new prospective on the whole situation."
"Theres a lot more out there to learn Scully. We have only started to uncover the truth. I sometimes wonder if we will ever make the men responsible for all of this pay." Mulder looks at a newspaper that had been lying on the table. He tosses it aside as he realizes its written in Russian.
"We never found out if the Russians were using alien technology in their weapons systems", says Scully. "I suppose we should of stayed longer."
"I think we gained a lot on this trip Scully. There will be other fact finding travels for us and we hopefully won't have any hostages at home to worry about," says Mulder.
The agents continue to discuss the case and finally their flight is called. Luckily they are able to board. They stop again in London and this time they play it safe by not leaving the airport. Late that evening they are finally back in Washington DC. They decide on staying at Scully's and work on their report to Skinner. Mulder gives Skinner a call to let them know they are back in town.
"We need a little extra time to prepare that report Sir," says Mulder. "We just got home and I don't know about Scully but I need about fifteen hours of sleep." He looks over at Scully sitting on her couch. She gives him a warning look as she turns on the tv.
"I understand Agent Mulder. I'm only going to be able to give you about twelve extra hours. I still have to report to that board. Hopefully, what you gathered on your trip can feed their appetites. I think I have smoothed over most of them. I think you two will come out with your jobs on this one. You're really lucky." Skinner hangs up.
"Looks like we still have our jobs", says Mulder flopping on the couch next to Scully. He puts his feet on her coffee table and leans back putting his hands on the back of his neck.
Scully leans forward and shoves his feet off the coffee table. "I want you to move in, but we've got to set some ground rules", she says.
"Oh boy, shes already telling me what to do", replies Mulder.
Meanwhile Skinner has forgotten to ask Mulder one question regarding the case. He dials his phone and frowns when the answering machine answers. "I know you're there Mulder. I just talked to you." Finally Skinner gives up and goes to bed.
The agents talk for about an hour and then Mulder yawns. "I think its time for bed Mrs. Mulder to be", he says.
"You mean Mrs. Scully-Mulder to be", smiles Scully.
"Whatever", says Mulder as he picks her up and carries her into the bedroom.
*******************
The next day the agents arrive early to work on their report. The guard at the security checkpoint frowns as he scans them through. Its 6:00 A.M. and the partners are here together. Interesting he thinks. He winks to a fellow guard as Scully and Mulder get onto an elevator to go to their basement office. "Are you in that pool", he asks the other guard. "Yup, I've been it for the past four years."
Later Mulder and Scully are sitting in Skinner's office with their final report. There report includes all of their receipts for travel and lodging. "We apologize Sir, for any inconvenience that this may have caused you", says Scully. "We thought it best if we found some answers before appearing before the board. We know it was totally irresponsible of us and.."
"And we can't promise it won't happen again", says Mulder interrupting. "We're in this to find the answers and sometimes it requires bending the rules a bit. I am sorry Sir, but if you want us to find the truth we need your cooperation in continuing to operate in this manner. As you can read in our report Agent Scully witnessed some of the same things that I have been telling you for seven years. She even stated that its starting to come all together. I think we will be able to build more on this case after we interview Krycek."
"Yes, Krycek", says Skinner sighing and glancing to the side. "Agent Mulder, Krycek was apprehended in this office by your three friends aka the Lone Gunmen I believe. He was escorted to a high security prison, but unfortunately someone above me on the Pentagon level signed him out. He's gone. I do still have some evidence that will serve us though." Skinner approaches his cabinet and opens it. His mouth drops slightly as he realizes the palm computer is gone. He turns to Mulder and Scully who realizing his distress have jumped up and approached him. "Its gone too", Skinner says. He approaches his desk and sits down. He motions for the agents to sit again. "I have never told you this, but Krycek has a small hand held palm computer that has some sort of nanocite technology. That time that I had that mysterious illness he was controlling me with it. He wore a disguise, a long haired brown wig and he followed me constantly. Everytime I protested about something he would turn that up and I nearly died. You two continue with what you need to do to find the answers. The X-Files will stay open and I will be as supportive as I can. You need something you just let me know." He looks down at the file on his desk containing the report on the case. He opens it again and scans the receipts. "Five hundred dollars for a room at a castle? Apparently you couldn't afford two. What is this?" He looks up at the agents who look like they've been caught with their hands in a cookie jar.
"It was an emergency", says Mulder. "Completely innocent. We missed our flight and it was the only place to stay. The couch was the most uncomfortable place to sleep." Scully tries not to laugh as she puts her hand over her mouth. Skinner glances from Mulder to Scully and says, "Agent Scully I must say that is a lovely charm bracelet." He leans forward and looks more closely. "Since when do you wear alien jewelry?" Scully picks at the bracelet and shrugs. "It was a gift. I thought I should be open minded."
Mulder stares at her and says rather annoyed, "A gift! Do you know how much that cost me?!" The two agents look at each other and then both at the same time gear their attention to Skinner who is staring at them intently. Skinner flips through the receipts again. "Okay lets see. Flights seem in order. Although this charter plane is outrageous."
"Theres a chance that won't be collected", says Mulder. "The pilot and the plane are no more." Scully glares at him.
Skinner continues to flip the receipts. "Food costs seem reasonable. Two rooms in Moscow. Clothing reimbursement?" He glances up and then scrutinizes it further. "What is this? Blue teddy and a pair of black silk boxer shorts? Are you taking advantage of the government agents. Are you doing your personal shopping on the bureau's money?"
Part 23
The agents are back in their basement office and Scully is scolding Mulder. "I can't believe you submitted that clothing bill. What does Skinner think?"
"Well, we lost all of our clothes while on duty", says Mulder. "The bureau has insurance for this type of thing. I just wanted to get what was due us."
"And that outburst about the bracelet. He definitely knows now that its from you", says Scully.
"If you hadn't blabbed that it was a gift it would never of happened. Besides, who else would have given you a bracelet with an alien on it? Frohike?", Mulder argues back.
The agents banter back and forth for a while and turn away from each other in disgust. Mulder approaches his filing cabinet and pulls a couple of files and sits at his desk. Scully snorts and turns away going to sit in a chair where she balances her laptop on her lap. They both make notations on the case for their own records. They keep sneaking looks out of the corner of their eyes to see if the other is as concerned about the disagreement as they are. The silence is deafening until the phone rings. Mulder answers it. "Its here. Okay good. Yes its what it says it is. Put it where it will be safe until I talk to you later." He glances at Scully who is staring at him. He then hangs up.
"Who was that?", asks Scully.
"Um a source for a case", says Mulder straightening up his desk. "Listen Scully, I am sorry for what I said in Skinner's office. I just can't seem to keep my mouth shut sometimes. I'll have to be more careful next time." All of a sudden he gets a look on his face.
"What is it", asks Scully.
"I just did something really stupid", says Mulder. "I sent an e-mail to Employee Relations for the weekly bureau newsletter. It prints today."
"So?", asks Scully.
"I advertised my furniture is for sale and I put this extension number", says Mulder.
"You did what? You said you were keeping your apartment as a front for a while until we could convince Skinner it would work out okay.
"I'm sure it will work out fine Scully", says Mulder as he leads her to the door of the office. "I bet Skinner doesn't even read those newsletters."
We see Skinner sitting at his desk reading the newsletter.
Part 24
Mulder and Scully go to lunch and then return to the office. They continue with their paperwork and before they know it its time to go home. "I'll drop you off at your place Scully and then I've got to run a couple of errands. But, I'll pick you up and we can start cleaning out my place if you want to?"
"Sure okay. We'll order pizza in and it will be fun", says Scully.
Later Mulder knocks at the door of the Lone Gunmen's hideout. Langley answers the door and Mulder enters. The three of them are sitting around eating chinese food. "Care for some?" asks Langley as he takes his seat. He picks up the chopsticks and scoops up some lo mein.
"Ah no, I have to go pick up Scully. She's helping me clean my apartment", says Mulder studying a book that is lying open on a table. He suddenly remembers why he is here. "Do you have it", he asks.
"Yeah, it arrived", says Frohike getting up. He approaches their refrigerator and opens it. He takes the box out which Mulder immediately takes from him.
"Is this really from Russia", asks Frohike? "Are you holding out on us? Are you turning redcoat?"
"No", laughs Mulder ripping open the box. "This is somewhat a present for Scully." He lifts out a Styrofoam box and opens that and finally carefully pulls out the now familiar tube.
"You bought her a new chemistry set?" asks Langley approaching.
"No, while we were in Russia I came across some of her long lost ova."
"You're kidding me", says Byers chewing some broccoli. "They were sent to Russia?"
"Yeah", smiles Mulder carefully replacing the tube. "She doesn't know it yet but she's getting these tomorrow night."
"Whats so special about tomorrow night?", asks Frohike looking suspicious.
Mulder feels Frohike's intense stare and answers quietly, "I have asked Scully to marry me and shes said 'Yes'. Tomorrow night I am giving her a ring which I have yet to buy and this. Our entire future in one little box", says Mulder patting the box and finally looking into Frohike's face. Frohike looks surprised and then hurt. "Shes too good for you Mulder." Frohike actually attempts to slug Mulder and Mulder has to rear back to avoid the blow. Langley grabs for Frohike, but its too late. Frohike grabs his jacket and storms out the door.
"Congratulations", says Byers. "He'll get over it."
Meanwhile Scully has collected together all the cleaning supplies that she needs when the phone rings. Its her mother reminding her that the next evening is Bill's birthday party. "Mom, can I bring a date with me?", Scully asks.
"Why of course honey. Who is it..Fox?"
"Yes Mom. I can't really believe it, but he has asked me to marry him. We're going over to his place to clean up a little bit. I don't know how you feel about it, but he is going to move in here."
"Dana are you happy?"
"Oh yes Mom! I haven't been this happy in a long time. Except for the day I first met Mulder."
"You two really need to start calling each other by your first names."
"I know. We're trying", says Scully smiling.
"I don't want to ruin your happiness Dana. You know I have always adored Fox, but does he understand about your inability to bear children?"
"Yes Mom. He knows and I guess he thinks we can work it out."
"Good. Do you want me to tell Bill or do you want to do it? It may be better if I warn him ahead of time. If I don't he may try to punch Fox tomorrow night."
"It doesn't matter Mom. He'll probably try to do it anyway", laughs Scully.
"Okay, I'll leave it up to you then", says Mrs. Scully.
The two of them chat about various things including possible wedding dates and then hang up. At this point theres a knock on the door. Its Mulder. Scully lets him in and then reaches for a key laying on the counter. I meant to give this to you before. Ever since I had the locks changed I haven't thought to give it to you, but now you'll need it." She reaches into her purse and pulls out another key which is labeled 'Mulder'. "If you are going to get rid of the apartment you may as well turn this key in too. I won't need it anymore." He takes both keys and puts them in his pocket.
"I hope you don't mind, but tomorrow night is Bill's birthday party and I thought we could go", says Scully.
"But he hates me", whines Mulder.
"Well, hes my brother and if we are going to be married he obviously is going to be part of your family. So you'll just have to accept each other", says Scully.
Mulder sighs and then says, "Well, I kinda had a special evening planned with just the two of us, but I guess we could do that another time."
Scully thinks for a moment. "Why don't we have a nice romantic luncheon. Then we can go to Mom's for the party."
"Okay. I guess that could be arranged", says Mulder thinking about how he can pull all of this off." He smiles to himself as he thinks how it will actually work out much better than he thought. Scully will have a ring to show brother Bill.
The agents go to Mulder's and clean the place from bottom to top. Mulder packs up some more clothes, books, desk contents and his computer then loads everything into the car. He comes back in and Scully is looking through his video tapes. "Do you really need these anymore?", she asks suggestively.
"No, I think I'll give them to Frohike. He needs them really bad", says Mulder as he leads Scully out of the apartment
Fifteen minutes later there is a sound of someone picking the lock. The door swings open. Skinner looks around noticing the clean desk and empty refrigerator. He nods to himself and exits.
Part 25
The next day Scully and Mulder once again arrive at work early much to the amusement of the guards. Mulder pulls some information off the internet about the ancient beliefs of the Egyptians on the afterlife and gets up from his desk. "I've got to run an errand. When I get back we can have that luncheon", he says.
"I'll go with you", offers Scully.
"No, no I need you here in case my contact calls again. Its got to do with this Egyptian mummy case." He waves around a file in his hand. "It seems that the Smithsonian is having some odd occurrences and they want us to investigate. My contact says thats its a coverup of some kind. I need to talk to him again, but have no way to reach him. Its important to me, so please stay and see if he calls. You can even use my desk." Scully moves her laptop to his desk and sits down. He leans over and gives her a deep kiss. Just as they part theres a knock on the door. Its Skinner.
"Excuse me agents. I understand that theres some paperwork regarding the ballistics on Mark Johnson that you haven't given me yet? I thought I could review it and give it back to you later."
Scully goes into the right hand drawer of Mulder's desk and pulls out a file. She hands it to Skinner who quickly scans through it. Mulder meanwhile backs towards the door. "I will see you later, Scully." He leaves. Skinner looks at Mulder and then turns to Scully. "Agent Scully? Agent Scully?" She snaps to attention. "Yes Sir."
"I will return this to you later, understood?"
"Yes sir", she says flushing.
**********************
An hour and a half later Mulder is back to pick up Scully. He takes her to the Lone Gunmen's hideout.
"You're kidding me. Our romantic luncheon is with the three stooges?", she asks.
"Not exactly", says Mulder. "They gave me a key." He holds up a key to her and then uses it to open the door. Inside there is a small table setup with candles and china. A pleasant odor is cooking and theres violin music coming from somewhere.
Mulder pulls out a seat for Scully and then retreats to the kitchen to find out what the Gunmen have prepared. He finds a four course meal including salad, baked stuffed shrimp and chocolate cake. Theres a champagne bottle in the refrigerator and a note attached. "I'm sorry for being such a jerk. You're a good man Mulder. I trust you to keep Agent Scully happy. Don't ever disappoint her, because you'll have to deal with me. F-" Mulder smiles as he carries out the food and champagne. After an hour and half of eating and talking Mulder decides there is no time like the present. He gets up and approaches a seated Scully who looks confused as to why he is approaching her. He reaches in his suit pocket and kneels in front of her. "I don't always say the right words Scully. It took me seven years to say I love you and it took a near death experience to propose, but this one is for real. Will you do me the honor of becoming Mrs. Spooky?" He opens up the box for her and shows her a one carot diamond engagement ring. Scully starts to cry and mumbles, "Yes". He slips the ring on her finger and she pulls him to her even though he is still kneeling.
They finally compose themselves and Mulder takes another deep breath. "I want you to understand that I had a reason for not helping you with Emily. I don't want you to hate me for that, because what I am about to show you will most likely change our lives forever."
"Mulder, I'm past that. We can adopt. Its okay. You were right. It wasn't meant to be."
Mulder gets up and comes back with a box. Scully takes it. She immediately recognizes it. She opens it and her hand shakes when she sees the tube. "Is this what I think it is?" Her voice cracks.
"Yeah, I can't replace all thats been taken from you. But whats in that one tube can help us start rebuilding the family that we have both lost."
The two agents stare at each other. Both of them tearing up. Scully lays the tube aside and hugs Mulder to her again. "Thank you", she whispers.
"No, thank you", replies Mulder.
************************
The agents skip work and stop at the Georgetown Hospital where the tube is put into the proper storage. They then go home to get ready for Bill's party. Scully is getting dressed in the bedroom when the doorbell rings. Mulder is in the shower. She puts on a robe and goes to the door. She nearly faints when she sees Skinner in the doorway with the file. She reaches for the file, unfortunately with her left hand. The diamond blinks like a beacon in the light. Skinner stares at it and is about to compliment her on the lovely bauble when he hears a door close in the apartment. He can't believe his eyes when he sees Agent Mulder exit the bedroom wrapped in a towel. "Scully, I can't find my new alien tie anywhere." He sees Skinner and stops in his tracks.
Skinner smiles and then starts jumping up and down. "I WON THE POOL!!", he screams. "I knew it. You are living together!"
The agents dress and sit down in the living room with their boss. They assure him that their relationship will not affect their work. He actually agrees, but says that the higher ups may have a problem. But it can be resolved.
Scully and Mulder go to the party. Bill becomes angry that they are engaged. But to avoid a lifelong split between him and his sister he shakes hands with Mulder and demands to give away the bride.
Six months later its the day of the wedding. The Lone Gunmen are the ushers, Skinner the best man. Scully's sister in law is the matron of honor along with cousins for bridesmaids. Bill escorts her down the aisle where Mulder is waiting looking handsome in his tuxedo. When Scully reaches him he smiles a boyish grin at her and her heart flutters. Before she turns to the priest she turns to Frohike and give him a kiss on the cheek. He blushes. The ceremony and reception are soon over. The agents go on a ten day cruise to the Caribbean.
In an Alexandria, VA farmhouse two years later a pregnant Scully waddles out of the bedroom to the living room. "Its time Fox", she says.
"Its time? Its time!" He jumps out of the recliner he is sitting in and trips over an ottoman. He falls to the floor and rushes over to grab the suitcase that they have prepared. He opens the door and runs out to the car.
"Mulder!!!! What about me?", yells Scully.
Ten hours later the Doctor comes out to announce to the Scully family, Lone Gunmen and Walter Skinner (the godfathers) of the arrival of Melissa Samantha Mulder. Mother and daughter are doing fine. Father is expected to awaken anytime.
THE END
The next day the agents awaken to a rainy, dreary day. They pack up their belongings and make their way to the airport. Unfortunately they have to go on standby. They visit a duty-free shop and pick up the souvenirs on the Lone Gunmen's list and then take seats in a coffee shop as they wait for the plane. "Well, Mulder this has been a real adventure", says Scully taking a sip of her coffee. "I really do have a new prospective on the whole situation."
"Theres a lot more out there to learn Scully. We have only started to uncover the truth. I sometimes wonder if we will ever make the men responsible for all of this pay." Mulder looks at a newspaper that had been lying on the table. He tosses it aside as he realizes its written in Russian.
"We never found out if the Russians were using alien technology in their weapons systems", says Scully. "I suppose we should of stayed longer."
"I think we gained a lot on this trip Scully. There will be other fact finding travels for us and we hopefully won't have any hostages at home to worry about," says Mulder.
The agents continue to discuss the case and finally their flight is called. Luckily they are able to board. They stop again in London and this time they play it safe by not leaving the airport. Late that evening they are finally back in Washington DC. They decide on staying at Scully's and work on their report to Skinner. Mulder gives Skinner a call to let them know they are back in town.
"We need a little extra time to prepare that report Sir," says Mulder. "We just got home and I don't know about Scully but I need about fifteen hours of sleep." He looks over at Scully sitting on her couch. She gives him a warning look as she turns on the tv.
"I understand Agent Mulder. I'm only going to be able to give you about twelve extra hours. I still have to report to that board. Hopefully, what you gathered on your trip can feed their appetites. I think I have smoothed over most of them. I think you two will come out with your jobs on this one. You're really lucky." Skinner hangs up.
"Looks like we still have our jobs", says Mulder flopping on the couch next to Scully. He puts his feet on her coffee table and leans back putting his hands on the back of his neck.
Scully leans forward and shoves his feet off the coffee table. "I want you to move in, but we've got to set some ground rules", she says.
"Oh boy, shes already telling me what to do", replies Mulder.
Meanwhile Skinner has forgotten to ask Mulder one question regarding the case. He dials his phone and frowns when the answering machine answers. "I know you're there Mulder. I just talked to you." Finally Skinner gives up and goes to bed.
The agents talk for about an hour and then Mulder yawns. "I think its time for bed Mrs. Mulder to be", he says.
"You mean Mrs. Scully-Mulder to be", smiles Scully.
"Whatever", says Mulder as he picks her up and carries her into the bedroom.
*******************
The next day the agents arrive early to work on their report. The guard at the security checkpoint frowns as he scans them through. Its 6:00 A.M. and the partners are here together. Interesting he thinks. He winks to a fellow guard as Scully and Mulder get onto an elevator to go to their basement office. "Are you in that pool", he asks the other guard. "Yup, I've been it for the past four years."
Later Mulder and Scully are sitting in Skinner's office with their final report. There report includes all of their receipts for travel and lodging. "We apologize Sir, for any inconvenience that this may have caused you", says Scully. "We thought it best if we found some answers before appearing before the board. We know it was totally irresponsible of us and.."
"And we can't promise it won't happen again", says Mulder interrupting. "We're in this to find the answers and sometimes it requires bending the rules a bit. I am sorry Sir, but if you want us to find the truth we need your cooperation in continuing to operate in this manner. As you can read in our report Agent Scully witnessed some of the same things that I have been telling you for seven years. She even stated that its starting to come all together. I think we will be able to build more on this case after we interview Krycek."
"Yes, Krycek", says Skinner sighing and glancing to the side. "Agent Mulder, Krycek was apprehended in this office by your three friends aka the Lone Gunmen I believe. He was escorted to a high security prison, but unfortunately someone above me on the Pentagon level signed him out. He's gone. I do still have some evidence that will serve us though." Skinner approaches his cabinet and opens it. His mouth drops slightly as he realizes the palm computer is gone. He turns to Mulder and Scully who realizing his distress have jumped up and approached him. "Its gone too", Skinner says. He approaches his desk and sits down. He motions for the agents to sit again. "I have never told you this, but Krycek has a small hand held palm computer that has some sort of nanocite technology. That time that I had that mysterious illness he was controlling me with it. He wore a disguise, a long haired brown wig and he followed me constantly. Everytime I protested about something he would turn that up and I nearly died. You two continue with what you need to do to find the answers. The X-Files will stay open and I will be as supportive as I can. You need something you just let me know." He looks down at the file on his desk containing the report on the case. He opens it again and scans the receipts. "Five hundred dollars for a room at a castle? Apparently you couldn't afford two. What is this?" He looks up at the agents who look like they've been caught with their hands in a cookie jar.
"It was an emergency", says Mulder. "Completely innocent. We missed our flight and it was the only place to stay. The couch was the most uncomfortable place to sleep." Scully tries not to laugh as she puts her hand over her mouth. Skinner glances from Mulder to Scully and says, "Agent Scully I must say that is a lovely charm bracelet." He leans forward and looks more closely. "Since when do you wear alien jewelry?" Scully picks at the bracelet and shrugs. "It was a gift. I thought I should be open minded."
Mulder stares at her and says rather annoyed, "A gift! Do you know how much that cost me?!" The two agents look at each other and then both at the same time gear their attention to Skinner who is staring at them intently. Skinner flips through the receipts again. "Okay lets see. Flights seem in order. Although this charter plane is outrageous."
"Theres a chance that won't be collected", says Mulder. "The pilot and the plane are no more." Scully glares at him.
Skinner continues to flip the receipts. "Food costs seem reasonable. Two rooms in Moscow. Clothing reimbursement?" He glances up and then scrutinizes it further. "What is this? Blue teddy and a pair of black silk boxer shorts? Are you taking advantage of the government agents. Are you doing your personal shopping on the bureau's money?"
Part 23
The agents are back in their basement office and Scully is scolding Mulder. "I can't believe you submitted that clothing bill. What does Skinner think?"
"Well, we lost all of our clothes while on duty", says Mulder. "The bureau has insurance for this type of thing. I just wanted to get what was due us."
"And that outburst about the bracelet. He definitely knows now that its from you", says Scully.
"If you hadn't blabbed that it was a gift it would never of happened. Besides, who else would have given you a bracelet with an alien on it? Frohike?", Mulder argues back.
The agents banter back and forth for a while and turn away from each other in disgust. Mulder approaches his filing cabinet and pulls a couple of files and sits at his desk. Scully snorts and turns away going to sit in a chair where she balances her laptop on her lap. They both make notations on the case for their own records. They keep sneaking looks out of the corner of their eyes to see if the other is as concerned about the disagreement as they are. The silence is deafening until the phone rings. Mulder answers it. "Its here. Okay good. Yes its what it says it is. Put it where it will be safe until I talk to you later." He glances at Scully who is staring at him. He then hangs up.
"Who was that?", asks Scully.
"Um a source for a case", says Mulder straightening up his desk. "Listen Scully, I am sorry for what I said in Skinner's office. I just can't seem to keep my mouth shut sometimes. I'll have to be more careful next time." All of a sudden he gets a look on his face.
"What is it", asks Scully.
"I just did something really stupid", says Mulder. "I sent an e-mail to Employee Relations for the weekly bureau newsletter. It prints today."
"So?", asks Scully.
"I advertised my furniture is for sale and I put this extension number", says Mulder.
"You did what? You said you were keeping your apartment as a front for a while until we could convince Skinner it would work out okay.
"I'm sure it will work out fine Scully", says Mulder as he leads her to the door of the office. "I bet Skinner doesn't even read those newsletters."
We see Skinner sitting at his desk reading the newsletter.
Part 24
Mulder and Scully go to lunch and then return to the office. They continue with their paperwork and before they know it its time to go home. "I'll drop you off at your place Scully and then I've got to run a couple of errands. But, I'll pick you up and we can start cleaning out my place if you want to?"
"Sure okay. We'll order pizza in and it will be fun", says Scully.
Later Mulder knocks at the door of the Lone Gunmen's hideout. Langley answers the door and Mulder enters. The three of them are sitting around eating chinese food. "Care for some?" asks Langley as he takes his seat. He picks up the chopsticks and scoops up some lo mein.
"Ah no, I have to go pick up Scully. She's helping me clean my apartment", says Mulder studying a book that is lying open on a table. He suddenly remembers why he is here. "Do you have it", he asks.
"Yeah, it arrived", says Frohike getting up. He approaches their refrigerator and opens it. He takes the box out which Mulder immediately takes from him.
"Is this really from Russia", asks Frohike? "Are you holding out on us? Are you turning redcoat?"
"No", laughs Mulder ripping open the box. "This is somewhat a present for Scully." He lifts out a Styrofoam box and opens that and finally carefully pulls out the now familiar tube.
"You bought her a new chemistry set?" asks Langley approaching.
"No, while we were in Russia I came across some of her long lost ova."
"You're kidding me", says Byers chewing some broccoli. "They were sent to Russia?"
"Yeah", smiles Mulder carefully replacing the tube. "She doesn't know it yet but she's getting these tomorrow night."
"Whats so special about tomorrow night?", asks Frohike looking suspicious.
Mulder feels Frohike's intense stare and answers quietly, "I have asked Scully to marry me and shes said 'Yes'. Tomorrow night I am giving her a ring which I have yet to buy and this. Our entire future in one little box", says Mulder patting the box and finally looking into Frohike's face. Frohike looks surprised and then hurt. "Shes too good for you Mulder." Frohike actually attempts to slug Mulder and Mulder has to rear back to avoid the blow. Langley grabs for Frohike, but its too late. Frohike grabs his jacket and storms out the door.
"Congratulations", says Byers. "He'll get over it."
Meanwhile Scully has collected together all the cleaning supplies that she needs when the phone rings. Its her mother reminding her that the next evening is Bill's birthday party. "Mom, can I bring a date with me?", Scully asks.
"Why of course honey. Who is it..Fox?"
"Yes Mom. I can't really believe it, but he has asked me to marry him. We're going over to his place to clean up a little bit. I don't know how you feel about it, but he is going to move in here."
"Dana are you happy?"
"Oh yes Mom! I haven't been this happy in a long time. Except for the day I first met Mulder."
"You two really need to start calling each other by your first names."
"I know. We're trying", says Scully smiling.
"I don't want to ruin your happiness Dana. You know I have always adored Fox, but does he understand about your inability to bear children?"
"Yes Mom. He knows and I guess he thinks we can work it out."
"Good. Do you want me to tell Bill or do you want to do it? It may be better if I warn him ahead of time. If I don't he may try to punch Fox tomorrow night."
"It doesn't matter Mom. He'll probably try to do it anyway", laughs Scully.
"Okay, I'll leave it up to you then", says Mrs. Scully.
The two of them chat about various things including possible wedding dates and then hang up. At this point theres a knock on the door. Its Mulder. Scully lets him in and then reaches for a key laying on the counter. I meant to give this to you before. Ever since I had the locks changed I haven't thought to give it to you, but now you'll need it." She reaches into her purse and pulls out another key which is labeled 'Mulder'. "If you are going to get rid of the apartment you may as well turn this key in too. I won't need it anymore." He takes both keys and puts them in his pocket.
"I hope you don't mind, but tomorrow night is Bill's birthday party and I thought we could go", says Scully.
"But he hates me", whines Mulder.
"Well, hes my brother and if we are going to be married he obviously is going to be part of your family. So you'll just have to accept each other", says Scully.
Mulder sighs and then says, "Well, I kinda had a special evening planned with just the two of us, but I guess we could do that another time."
Scully thinks for a moment. "Why don't we have a nice romantic luncheon. Then we can go to Mom's for the party."
"Okay. I guess that could be arranged", says Mulder thinking about how he can pull all of this off." He smiles to himself as he thinks how it will actually work out much better than he thought. Scully will have a ring to show brother Bill.
The agents go to Mulder's and clean the place from bottom to top. Mulder packs up some more clothes, books, desk contents and his computer then loads everything into the car. He comes back in and Scully is looking through his video tapes. "Do you really need these anymore?", she asks suggestively.
"No, I think I'll give them to Frohike. He needs them really bad", says Mulder as he leads Scully out of the apartment
Fifteen minutes later there is a sound of someone picking the lock. The door swings open. Skinner looks around noticing the clean desk and empty refrigerator. He nods to himself and exits.
Part 25
The next day Scully and Mulder once again arrive at work early much to the amusement of the guards. Mulder pulls some information off the internet about the ancient beliefs of the Egyptians on the afterlife and gets up from his desk. "I've got to run an errand. When I get back we can have that luncheon", he says.
"I'll go with you", offers Scully.
"No, no I need you here in case my contact calls again. Its got to do with this Egyptian mummy case." He waves around a file in his hand. "It seems that the Smithsonian is having some odd occurrences and they want us to investigate. My contact says thats its a coverup of some kind. I need to talk to him again, but have no way to reach him. Its important to me, so please stay and see if he calls. You can even use my desk." Scully moves her laptop to his desk and sits down. He leans over and gives her a deep kiss. Just as they part theres a knock on the door. Its Skinner.
"Excuse me agents. I understand that theres some paperwork regarding the ballistics on Mark Johnson that you haven't given me yet? I thought I could review it and give it back to you later."
Scully goes into the right hand drawer of Mulder's desk and pulls out a file. She hands it to Skinner who quickly scans through it. Mulder meanwhile backs towards the door. "I will see you later, Scully." He leaves. Skinner looks at Mulder and then turns to Scully. "Agent Scully? Agent Scully?" She snaps to attention. "Yes Sir."
"I will return this to you later, understood?"
"Yes sir", she says flushing.
**********************
An hour and a half later Mulder is back to pick up Scully. He takes her to the Lone Gunmen's hideout.
"You're kidding me. Our romantic luncheon is with the three stooges?", she asks.
"Not exactly", says Mulder. "They gave me a key." He holds up a key to her and then uses it to open the door. Inside there is a small table setup with candles and china. A pleasant odor is cooking and theres violin music coming from somewhere.
Mulder pulls out a seat for Scully and then retreats to the kitchen to find out what the Gunmen have prepared. He finds a four course meal including salad, baked stuffed shrimp and chocolate cake. Theres a champagne bottle in the refrigerator and a note attached. "I'm sorry for being such a jerk. You're a good man Mulder. I trust you to keep Agent Scully happy. Don't ever disappoint her, because you'll have to deal with me. F-" Mulder smiles as he carries out the food and champagne. After an hour and half of eating and talking Mulder decides there is no time like the present. He gets up and approaches a seated Scully who looks confused as to why he is approaching her. He reaches in his suit pocket and kneels in front of her. "I don't always say the right words Scully. It took me seven years to say I love you and it took a near death experience to propose, but this one is for real. Will you do me the honor of becoming Mrs. Spooky?" He opens up the box for her and shows her a one carot diamond engagement ring. Scully starts to cry and mumbles, "Yes". He slips the ring on her finger and she pulls him to her even though he is still kneeling.
They finally compose themselves and Mulder takes another deep breath. "I want you to understand that I had a reason for not helping you with Emily. I don't want you to hate me for that, because what I am about to show you will most likely change our lives forever."
"Mulder, I'm past that. We can adopt. Its okay. You were right. It wasn't meant to be."
Mulder gets up and comes back with a box. Scully takes it. She immediately recognizes it. She opens it and her hand shakes when she sees the tube. "Is this what I think it is?" Her voice cracks.
"Yeah, I can't replace all thats been taken from you. But whats in that one tube can help us start rebuilding the family that we have both lost."
The two agents stare at each other. Both of them tearing up. Scully lays the tube aside and hugs Mulder to her again. "Thank you", she whispers.
"No, thank you", replies Mulder.
************************
The agents skip work and stop at the Georgetown Hospital where the tube is put into the proper storage. They then go home to get ready for Bill's party. Scully is getting dressed in the bedroom when the doorbell rings. Mulder is in the shower. She puts on a robe and goes to the door. She nearly faints when she sees Skinner in the doorway with the file. She reaches for the file, unfortunately with her left hand. The diamond blinks like a beacon in the light. Skinner stares at it and is about to compliment her on the lovely bauble when he hears a door close in the apartment. He can't believe his eyes when he sees Agent Mulder exit the bedroom wrapped in a towel. "Scully, I can't find my new alien tie anywhere." He sees Skinner and stops in his tracks.
Skinner smiles and then starts jumping up and down. "I WON THE POOL!!", he screams. "I knew it. You are living together!"
The agents dress and sit down in the living room with their boss. They assure him that their relationship will not affect their work. He actually agrees, but says that the higher ups may have a problem. But it can be resolved.
Scully and Mulder go to the party. Bill becomes angry that they are engaged. But to avoid a lifelong split between him and his sister he shakes hands with Mulder and demands to give away the bride.
Six months later its the day of the wedding. The Lone Gunmen are the ushers, Skinner the best man. Scully's sister in law is the matron of honor along with cousins for bridesmaids. Bill escorts her down the aisle where Mulder is waiting looking handsome in his tuxedo. When Scully reaches him he smiles a boyish grin at her and her heart flutters. Before she turns to the priest she turns to Frohike and give him a kiss on the cheek. He blushes. The ceremony and reception are soon over. The agents go on a ten day cruise to the Caribbean.
In an Alexandria, VA farmhouse two years later a pregnant Scully waddles out of the bedroom to the living room. "Its time Fox", she says.
"Its time? Its time!" He jumps out of the recliner he is sitting in and trips over an ottoman. He falls to the floor and rushes over to grab the suitcase that they have prepared. He opens the door and runs out to the car.
"Mulder!!!! What about me?", yells Scully.
Ten hours later the Doctor comes out to announce to the Scully family, Lone Gunmen and Walter Skinner (the godfathers) of the arrival of Melissa Samantha Mulder. Mother and daughter are doing fine. Father is expected to awaken anytime.
THE END