Date sent: Wed, 08 Apr 1998 20:27:56 -0700 From: Jennifer Martin Subject: Rubicon II Title: RUBICON II Author: Jenni E-Mail: jenni@home.com Rating: PG Classification: S & R Spoilers: Emily but nothing after that ever happened in my world. Summary: Skinner and Scully pay the piper. Date finished: 3 Apr 98 Disclaimer: This is the same old Yada, Yada, yada.. X-Files Characters belong to the all empowered Chris Carter, 10/13 productions, and Fox. Please don't sue or you'll get my kids. All other characters are of my creation and may be used, just ask first please. Authors note: This is the second of a trilogy. The first one did not have the response I was hoping for but due to demand of a few friends; I finished this one in record time. This story is written in Walter's point of view. If you didn't notice the last one was in Dana's. The next one will be in Mulder's point of view. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed writing this. I would like to thank Kathleen, Heather and my husband Robert for the inspiration and encouragement. Big cyber hugs. The intercom squawked. "Yes Kim?" Skinner asked trying to get through his files so he and Scully could get away for the weekend. "The Director would like to see you in his office as soon as possible sir," Kim said. "Tell him I'll be right there," he told her. He signed off on the next file and made a hasty exit to the Director's office. He was hoping that this wasn't about him and Scully. They had been very careful except when she had come home with Mulder but that was 2 months ago. "Sir, you wanted to see me?" he asked heading into his office. Skinner and Director Ralph Edwards had known each other since Skinner was in the Academy. "Hey Walt, come on in," Ralph said. Usually this meant a social call. "So what's up Ralph?" Walt said sitting in his usual chair in front of his desk. "Well I know about you and Agent Scully," Ralph started with a nervous look on his face. "I knew you would find out," Skinner said feeling a little guilty. "Walter, I have known you for years. You have done almost everything by the book until now. I don't understand this. This is a dangerous game you are playing," he said. "How did you find out?" Skinner asked. "I saw you two at a restaurant in Queenstown. Luckily Sarah didn't see you, you know how much she liked Sharon," Ralph said. "Last Friday, right?" Skinner inquired. "Yes, but why Scully?" Ralph asked. "She is everything I thought was wrong with Sharon. She's everything to me. I tried to keep it professional. Shit Ralph, I kept it professional for 4 years. It's just when we went to Denver to get Mulder I couldn't keep it that way. I felt so bad. I just didn't know what to do," Skinner said unsure if his life was about to go down the toilet. "Well Walter, let's see what I can do. You say you two have been together for 2 months. I want to personally see all the X-Files and any other reports submitted by Agents Mulder and Scully. Then I will let you know how we are going to do damage control on this," Ralph said. "I'll have Kim bring those up right away and thanks," Walter said shaking his hand and left. "Kim, I need you to put together all the final reports for all files pertaining to Agent Mulder, Agent Scully and the X-Files for the last two months," Skinner huffed as he went into his office. He put his coat on the rack and moved to the window. He always gained a sense of calm when watching Washington's hustle and bustle. "Walter?" Scully asked as she walked into his office. Kim had called her and told her what was going on. "Dana, what are we going to do?" Walter said as he pulled her into his arms. He didn't want to leave his position he had worked 18 years for but he would not make Scully make that decision either. She had spent too many years training for her career. He was scared she would break it off with him just to keep her job but wasn't sure. He didn't think she would but only she knew the answer to that. "Walt, I am not sure but if all else fails I will transfer. I know you and Mulder will probably be at each others throats without me but I know you two can deal right?" she said. "I don't want to see you have to transfer just because of our relationship. I don't know if I trust Mulder with anyone else," Skinner said as he sat at his desk. "The Director will be going over your files for the last 2 months to compare them with before. I hope everything goes our way. Do you still want to get together this weekend?" he asked. "Why not. Do you think Millville, New Jersey is far enough?" she joked. "Alright, you go back to work or we'll never get out of here," he said. "See ya at my place at 7 then right?" she asked. "I'll be there even if I have to go straight over there. My stuff is in my truck as we speak," he said with a smile. Scully was disturbed by what was going on. Director Edwards was already on to them. `What if he decided to sanction them? What if he decided to dismiss Walter or me? God this is going to drive me nuts,' she thought. She got off the elevator and walked toward the office she called hers for the last five years. Sure there were times she felt like an outsider, but Mulder had changed after she had gotten that stupid tattoo. It's only been a little over a year since then. She stood outside the door and looked at her nameplate. They had just put it up 3 weeks ago. That was the only thing Mulder hadn't done until then. She had gotten her desk. They had to archive a lot of files to disk and sent the hard copies to central archives so they could take some of the filing cabinets out to fit her desk in the office. They had gone through a lot of changes in the last two months. She had worked 2 cases on her own because Mulder was still on sick leave. The first case they had worked, when he returned, had been a hoax in Tennessee. Skinner had Mulder's hide on that one. Mulder had, once again, posed the evidence in his favor to get the cased opened in the first place. The second one had been the occult. Skinner was harder on Mulder now than before. It wasn't because of her but he still wiped him on the carpet. She entered the office not even trying to seem happy. "Scully, what's wrong?" Mulder asked as she sat at her desk. "We have a problem, Director Edwards saw me and Walter at dinner last Friday night. I mean we went well out of our way. We went to Queenstown and that's 50 miles away. It's not like we went to the caf‚ across the street and made out or anything," Scully said pacing the small office. "Scully don't worry, things will be ok. I could pull a few strings for you," Mulder said trying to get Scully in a good mood and trying not to laugh at the same time. "We'll see," She said. She sat down and started writing a report for Forensics. "Are you and Skinner still going to go away for the weekend?" Mulder asked from his desk. "Yeah, we're leaving at 7. Do me a favor; check on Mom this weekend. She has been a little worried about Bill and Tara since the move. To make matters worse, she has been having nightmares about Emily," Scully said sadly. The thought of her daughter still depressed her. It hasn't been as bad since Walter came into her life but it still bothered her. "Not a problem, I'll see if Frohike can get us some tickets to the Ballet. I am sure she'd like to go out with me," Mulder smiled. "She likes me best anyway." He always joked about being in the family. Mom always said Mulder was a Scully in disguise. "Mulder, is there anything else that needs to be done before I leave?" Scully asked as the clock struck 5pm. "No, you go get ready for your romantic weekend. I'll make sure everything is in order by Monday," Mulder said straightening some files and going over some news articles. "Mulder you're not looking for a case again are you?" Scully said putting on her coat. "No, I'm just getting some articles together for a scrapbook for Bryers. His birthday is coming up and I figured I would put together a scrapbook of all the cases we solved that are not classified," Mulder answered. "That's nice. I'll see if I can find something for him this weekend. Well, I am out of here. Bye Mulder," Scully said walking out the door. "Bye Scully," Mulder said not even looking up from his work. Scully walked into her apartment, hung up her coat and played her messages. "You have 3 messages. Message one. Dana, its mom, give me a call before you leave for the weekend. I'll talk to you later. Bye. Message two. Hey Dana, I'll be there a little late. I had a talk with Jim in Cincinnati. I'll tell you about it on the way. I'll be at your place about 7:30. Sorry babe. Message three. Hey Scully, I need a favor. Give me a call when you get in. End of messages." The answering machine erased the messages and reset itself. "Well, I am going to get ready first then call everyone back," Scully said to herself. She desperately wanted a shower and a change of clothes just in case Walter got there on time. After her shower, Scully put on her old faded jeans and a blue sweater. She had brought her bag to the livingroom when the phone rang. "Hello," Scully said. "Dana, its Mom. I'm glad I caught you," Mom said sadly. "Mom what is it? Is something wrong?" Dana asked. Mom never sounded like this except when something was wrong. "Dana, I need to talk to you. Can I come over?" Maggie asked unsure of herself for the first time in her life. "Mom, are you ok?" Scully asked. "Yes, its you I'm worried about," she said. "You can come over now if you like mom. Walter and I are going to be leaving late anyway," Dana replied. "Thanks dear. I'll be right over," Maggie said and hung up. `What was mom up to?' Scully wondered. Maggie drove as fast as she could without getting a ticket or in an accident. She had had one of her premonitions again. This one was disturbing because of Emily. The thought of her grandbaby being a clone was devastating. She parked in front of the building, by Dana's apartment. Dana waved from the window and met her at the door. "Mom, are you ok?" Scully asked. "I will be. We need to talk. Is Walter here?" Maggie asked. "No not yet he had to work late tonight," Scully said escorting her mom into her apartment. "I'll make some tea." Scully said. They went into the kitchen and Maggie pulled up a chair as Dana got her favorite blue kettle and started the tea. "Alright Mom what is it?" Scully said knowing she was going to have to pry this one out of her mom. "Dana, you know how sometimes I just see things," Maggie began. "Mom, I know you like Mulder but I don't love him like that. We already had this talk." Dana said. "Dana, this has nothing to do with Mulder. It has to do with you and Walter. I had a dream this afternoon," Maggie began. "You two were at a doctors office and you started crying. It wasn't Dr. Zuckerman though. I don't remember this doctor at all. I couldn't hear anything but, Dana, I would really like it if you went and saw Dr. Zuckerman just in case. I just worry you know," She said. "Mom, I will go next week. I will call Dr. Zuckerman first thing Monday morning. Ok," Dana said. "Thanks," Maggie said putting her hand on Dana's. They heard the door open in the front room. "Dana, are you ready?" Walter said coming into the apartment. "We're in here," Dana said. "Hello Mrs. Scully, hey sweetheart, these are for you. Sorry I had to work late," Walter said handing Dana a dozen red roses. "If I would have known that you were going to be her Mrs. Scully, I would have gotten you some flowers too," Walter added. "Is anything wrong here?" He asked feeling like he interrupted something. "No, don't worry. Go ahead and put the bags in the car," Dana said standing up to give him a hug and kiss. "OK," He said leaving them to finish. "Mom, don't worry," Dana said. "Well, I am glad that you are happy with him," Maggie said to her daughter. Dana started to walk her mom out to her car. "Well I am happy and Walter loves me. Don't worry mom," Dana said yet once again. "Mrs. Scully don't leave because of me. We have guaranteed reservations at the bed and breakfast. We have a 3 hour drive but if all fails we can leave after a couple of hours sleep," Walter insisted. "No, you two have fun. I hope everything goes well," Maggie said getting into her car. "Oh, mom Mulder is going to be giving you a call tomorrow. He said he was going to be board this weekend and said something about calling you to go out or something," Dana fibbed. Well it was close to the truth. "That will be nice. Now have fun you two," Maggie said as she pulled away. "Well if we get started now we can make it to the in by 11:30," Walter said. "Ok lets go," Dana said going to get her purse. They started their drive in silence, both thinking of what to say. "I talked to Jim over in Cincinnati and he said he'd back us up if and when it came time. He agrees that if it doesn't interfere with our work then we should be allowed to continue our relationship as long as it is discrete. I don't mean going out of our way just to make sure we are not seen, but not go overboard with it," Walter said. "That's good," Dana said looking out her window. She wasn't sure on weather to tell him or not. `Why not?' She thought. "Walter, my mother had a premonition. I don't know if you believe in them or not but I am not sure about this one." "What was it about?" Walter asked not sure if he really wanted to know. "She dreamed that we were in a doctors office but it wasn't Dr. Zuckerman's office. He told us something and I started crying," She started. "I don't know what to think about it but mom wants me to see Dr. Zuckerman next week just to make sure. What do you think?" "I think it is a good idea. It doesn't hurt just to make sure," Walter said sadly. He had gone through too much for her to get sick again. He started to get angry again. He couldn't help wanting to rip the Cancerman's throat out. "Have you been feeling alright?" He asked before he exploded. "I feel fine. I mean its not like when I had cancer. I am a little tired but I think it is from all the extra exercise I have been getting," She looked over to Walter and winked. "I am fine, really. In fact I have been eating like a horse. Well, I guess I won't worry till next week," She giggled at his remark and started to stare out the window. They were getting ready to get on the 40 State Highway. Dana dozed off watching the scenery go by. "Dana, we're here," Walter said picking Dana up from her seat. "Walter, huh. put me down," She said sleepily. "Ok. You're no fun," he pouted. They walked up to the second floor room. Walter picked her up again to carry across the threshold. "Oh Walter it's so beautiful," she said. Walter lowered her down to the floor as she looked around. The bed was a four poster canopy bed that was raised off the floor. The canopy was lace all around the bed. There was an oak chester drawer with 6 drawers. On the opposite wall was a brick fireplace. In the back of the room, was a bathroom with an old fashion raised tub with room for two. They had towel, scented soaps, bath oils, and candles. "My god this is so wonderful," she said not believing her eyes. "Walter how much did you pay for this?" she asked. "Don't worry about it. It is all for us," he said. They both bathed and got ready for bed. Exhausted from the drive, Walter was asleep as soon as he hit the pillow. Dana lay next to him, her head still spinning, thinking of how he had done this for her. He had told her that he was going to always be romantic with her and never let her go. She wasn't sure on whether to believe it or not but now she was sure he'd go to any length for her. Dana snuggled up to him and fell into the night. Walter woke up to the sun shinning in his eyes. He lay there happy that he had taken Dana to this place. It would be a great change for them. He thought they needed to get away. What a better long weekend than 4th of July. Walter turned over to see his loving lady. "Dana, what. Dana, where are you?" he said looking for her. He climbed out of bed and went to the bathroom thinking that she may be in a bath. "Dana?" he said looking in there. `Where the hell is she?' he thought. He got dressed and decided to ask Mrs. Tara Naill, the innkeeper. She was an older lady from Ireland. She had a really thick accent but was a nice as pie. "Good morning Mrs. Naill. Have you seen my girlfriend Dana Scully? She has red hair, about this tall, and blue eyes," he asked. "Morn'in Mr. Skinner. Sleep well, did ya?" she asked in her bright and chipper Irish way. "I slept great but have you see Dana?" he asked trying not to sound worried. "No sir. But I just got done with the morn'n dishes," she said straightin up the reception area. "If you see her let her know I am looking for her," he finished and went outside to see if she had taken the car. He saw his Taurus sitting in the same spot that he had left it last night. His watch said 10:45. `Maybe she went for a run,' he thought. Walter went up and got ready for the afternoon that he had planned already putting off all the things he had planned for the morning. He put all their clothes away in the dresser. He looked around and tried to figure out what she had worn when she went out. He found her gym shoes. `This is too weird,' he thought. He went back down stairs and found Mrs. Naill. "Mrs. Naill have you seen Dana yet?" he asked. "No sir. I haven't seen the lass yet," she said preparing lunch. "Mr. Skinner please call me Tara. You and your lass will be here for a while longer right?" she asked. "Yeah if I can find her," he said heading back to their room. He got his cell phone out and called her. One ring, two rings, three rings and found her phone in her suitcase. `Lets try Maggie,' he thought. He dialed hoping not to sound too worried when he talked to her mother. "Hello," Maggie answered. "Maggie, this is Walter, have you talked to Dana today?" he asked. "No dear, do you want to talk to Fox, he's here," she asked. "Sure, thanks," he said knowing Mulder was going to be pissed off. "Sir, what is going on, where is Scully?" he asked already pissed off. "I don't know Mulder, I woke up and she was gone. That was 4 hours ago and I have her cell phone. I don't know what she was wearing, I'm not sure what she brought," he said. "I'll be there as soon as I can get there," Mulder said and hung up. "Don't worry mom I'll find her," he said. "I know you will Fox, but remember, she loves Walter. Don't start fighting or I will come down just to make sure," she said sternly. "Yes mom," Mulder said and left her to her thoughts. He ran over what needed to be done. He had to pack, call Skinner and get the address, make hotel reservations, and get with the Lone Gunmen. "Not a problem Mulder see you at around 5pm. Right, bye," Skinner said. He went down stairs and decided to talk to Tara about a room for Mulder. "Tara, is there a cheap hotel around here a friend of mine could stay in?" he asked. "Sure there is laddy, is it a lass or a lad you want to put up?" she asked. "Fox Mulder, he's Dana's partner," he said. "Well then, the Roadside Inn is 5 minutes away from here. It tis not as nice as me own but I'm sure he'll like it," she added trying to do some paperwork at the front desk. "I am going to inform the police about this. Do you have any problems with that?" he asked. "No laddy, just make sure that they don't make a fuss round here. I have other guests that don't want to be bothered," she added. "Yes ma'am," he said and headed to the police department. "Good after noon Officer Gomez, I need to speak to who ever is in charge of your missing persons department, I am Assistant Director Walter Skinner FBI," Skinner stated in his business voice. "Yes, sir I will get Lt. Williams out here in a moment," she said and went into the back. Looking at his watch he noticed it was 2:15. He pulled out his phone to call Tara just in case. "Naill Bed and Breakfast, this is Tara, may I help ya?" she asked. "Tara, it's Walter, has Dana come back?" he asked. "No laddy she hasn't, I am sorry. Have you talked to Mary yet?" she asked. "Not yet but I will be here shortly. I'll talk to you later Tara," Skinner said and hung up as he heard a stifled cough behind him. He turned around to see a young woman looking at him slightly annoyed. "I am Lt. Mary Williams, what can I do for you sir?" she asked. "I am Assistant Director Walter Skinner FBI, can we talk in private?" he asked. "Yes, sir follow me," she said. They went into her office and she showed him a seat in front of her desk. She closed the door and sat down in front of him in her chair. "Alright, do you want to tell me why you wanted to see me sir and what the FBI has to do with it?" she asked, none too happy. "Well, to begin with I am here with my girlfriend Agent Dana Scully also with the FBI and she has disappeared. She was last seen in our room around 1:30am this morning. We are staying at the Niall B-n-B. I know it hasn't been long enough to file a police report but I was hoping I could at least give you a picture to start the process," he stated. "Well, you are right AD Skinner but since I have you here I will start with the pilmanary questions. How long have you known her? How long have you been dating, you know the drill," she said. "Well, I have known Agent Scully since March 1994 professionally. We started dating in April. We have been on long weekends like this before. I don't want to make this public unless we have too. I am her boss," he said. It all clicked into her head when he said this. "Ok I get the picture, you have worked with her for 4 years, started dating her 3 months ago and are still her boss. This makes it rather sticky," she said. "Yes it does," Skinner said not sure where this was going. "Does she have any ex-lovers that have been harassing her or do you have any old girlfriends who are the jealous type?" she asked trying to cover all the bases. "I am not sure about her, I would have to ask Mulder on that one, but my ex-wife died April 6, 1996. I haven't dated anyone since," he said sadly. "Alright, give me a picture and we'll see what we can do. Normally we wait 48 hours but since she is an agent we'll start now. Detective Schmidt and I will be working the case and will keep this quiet as long as we can until we can not do anything more on the inside," she said. Skinner gets his cell phone out and dials Kim at home. "Hello," she said laughing. "Kimberly, this is Skinner, I know its your day off and all but I need a favor," he said. "Anything sir." She said worried that his only real vacation was going to be all work. "I need you to go into my office and get Scully's file and get her personal data sheet, medical sheet and current photo and fax it to." he began looking at Lt. Williams and asked "Lt. what is you fax number?" she wrote it down for him. "Its area code 757-555-5551. Make it attention Lt. Williams, Missing Persons department. I need it right away and put a leave request in for Agent Mulder and myself for 1 week and a missing addendum for Agent Scully again. She was last seen at 0130 hours EST. Got everything?" he said sadly. "Yes sir, my prayers are with you," she said and hung up. "If you need anything else I will be at the Bed and Breakfast," he said and left. He drove to the Roadside Inn and got Mulder a room. The desk clerk looked at him funny but didn't say anything. He then drove back to the B-n-B to talk some more to Tara before Mulder got there. "Tara what do you think happened to Dana?" he asked. "I'm not sure laddy, but you'll find her I know it. Me husband Greggory told me so," she said cooking him a late lunch. "I haven't met Greggory, where is he?" Skinner asked. "Greggory died 15 years ago. He died from old age he did," she said sadly. "So he talked to you from beyond," Skinner replied, unbelieving. "He always has. Stubborn lot the Niall are. Can trace the family back a thousand years we can," she said proudly. "I think you and Agent Mulder will get along nicely," he said with a smile. Agent Mulder showed up around 4:30. "Jeez Mulder how fast did you drive?" Skinner began, "No don't tell me. I don't want to know," he finished. "Alright, exactly what happened?" Mulder asked. "Come on we need to go see Lt. Williams and I will explain on the way there," Skinner said and walked with Mulder out to his car. "Officer Gomez, we are here to see Lt. Williams again," Skimmer said. "Yes sir, follow me," she said. She led them into the Lt.'s office. "Lt. Williams, this is Agent Mulder, Agent Scully's partner. Mulder this is Lt. Williams she is going to help us find Scully," Skinner began. "Nice to meet you Lt.," Mulder said. "Like wise Agent Mulder. Do you have any information that will be helpful?" she asked. "Well, I can help find her if that is what you mean. Let me give you some background but this is confidential. I cannot stress the implications if any of this was to get out," Mulder said. Lt. Williams got out of her chair and closed the door. "All right Mulder what do you have?" she asked. "Skinner remember when Scully was on her death bed?" Mulder asked. "Yes, what does that have to do with anything?" Skinner asked. "I got the replacement chip from the Cancerman and had it checked out by the Lone Gunmen. They put a tracking device on the chip before it was implanted back into Scully. I am just waiting for them to get the equipment warmed up and her location traced," Mulder explained. "You know she is going to through a fit when she finds out don't you?" Skinner asked. "Yeah but it did come in handy didn't it," Mulder said. "So how soon can these friends of yours get her location?" Lt. Williams asked. "Let me find out how much longer," Mulder said pulling out his cell phone. "Speak," Langly said. "Turn off the tape Langly," Mulder gripped. "Ok Mulder but no names, you know the drill," Langly said. "Where is she guys?" Mulder asked. "We got her tracked down to Vineland, New Jersey, it's north of your position. I would say about 8 miles. Do you want us to meet you there or what?" Langly said. "No, no need for you guys to get involved. Tell Frohike that I'll have Scully call when we get out of this mess," Mulder said and hung up. "Do you have a map of New Jersey Lt.?" Mulder asked. "Yeah, hold on," she said looking on a shelf. "Here it is," she said pulling out her map. "Do you know where Vineland is Lt.?" he said. "Sure, its right. here," she said. "That is where we need to go. The guys had her tracked down to there. I will be communicating with them if we have any problems," he said. "Can you call anyone down there to give up some local support? I am not sure what kind of support to count on from out field office in Richmond but I will see what I can do?" Skinner said. They got on their phones and called in the Calvary. Lt. Williams called the sheriffs department and had them keep an eye out for Scully and any suspicious behavior. Skinner got a hold of Special Agent Sanchez and got 5 agents to help from there. Skinner and Mulder went to the B-n-B so Skinner could change and get his gun. "Tara, Tara, where are you?" Skinner called out when he entered the B-n-B. "Laddy that's more than enough. I am right here," Tara said coming out of the kitchen. "Why laddy is this the Agent Mulder you were speak'n of?" Tara asked. She dried her hands off on her apron. "Call me Mulder ma'am," Mulder said with a smile. He immediately took a liking for her. "Well Mulder, call me Tara. I believe laddy here says I'd be likin' ya," she said. "Well, I am interested in the paranormal and the occult," Mulder said. "Well, me Greggory says you love laddy's lady," she said. Skinner and Mulder looked at each other with anger in their eyes. "Yeah well, I do love Scully but only in as a friend," Mulder said. "Well lady has the charm she does," Tara said straightening up the magazines in the lobby. "So, how often do you talk to Greggory?" Mulder asked. "As often as he likes. He is a strong Irishmen he is. The two of you will have your lady back tommora you will," she said and left Skinner and Mulder watching her leave. "Quite a lady," Mulder said. "That she is Mulder. I'll be back," Skinner said taking the steps two at a time. Mulder looked around the lobby. He saw that the entire house was full of antiques and Irish literature. "Findin everything fine Mr. Mulder?" Tara asked coming from the kitchen. "Yes ma'am. Where did you find some of these books? I notice a lot of Irish folklore," Mulder asked politely. "Well, me Greggory's family been passing those books down through the family line," she said as she started dusting. "Do you run this place all by yourself?" Mulder asked. "I don't be needin' no one. I have been through a lot of things sonny, but you look like you lost your best friend," she stated looking at him closer. "Yes ma'am, I guess I did," Mulder said. "Ready to go Mulder?" Skinner asked coming down the stairs. He was dressed in his usual suit and ties. "Well laddy, you certainly go all out to be professional," Tara said. "Unfortunately Mrs. Naill, this is business," Skinner began, "Let's go Mulder." Then he and Mulder walked out the door. They stopped by Mulder's hotel to cancel the reservations. Skinner figured they wouldn't be in a position to come back. They then made their way to the police station. `We will find her, We will find her.' Skinner kept chanting in his mind. "Lt. Williams, what have you come up with?" Skinner asked. "Not much sir, we have established that Agent Scully was seen in Vineland. Whether or not she is still there that is the question," she said. "What condition was she in when sighted?" Mulder asked. "She was being escorted to the ladies room by two gentlemen one 5'10", brown hair, no eye color, dressed in a brown business suit. The other one was 6'1", sandy brown hair, brown eyes, dressed also in a brown business suit. They were last seen at the Pilot Gas Station in Vineland around 0415 today," she informed them. "Well let's go," Skinner said. "Let' mount up and move out," She said gathering her personnel and maps. The drive took 20 minutes from the police station to the Vineland Police Station; Lt. Lyman and SAIC Sanchez met them. "What is our situation?" Skinner asked when they arrived. "It doesn't look good sir. This is a small town. I don't think they are here anymore," Lt. Lyman said. "At least we got something to work with here," Sanchez said. "Have you deposed the witness Lt.," Mulder asked. "Yes I have Agent Mulder." "Mr. Nicks saw them take her to the ladies room. He runs the local Pilot Gas station," Lt. Lyman said. "We have also checked the bathroom and found this." Lt. Lyman took them into the ladies room and found that Scully had written on the mirror with the liquid soap. It said `Carina Sayles inv' and nothing else. "What the hell is that supposed to mean? Who is Carina?" the Lt. asked. "Carina Sayles was murdered and we investigated it along with a cop from Washington PD," Skinner said furiously. `How could she bring this up now,' he thought. "Sir, can we talk?" Mulder said. Skinner walked out of the ladies room and walked over to their car. "Sir, what if Detective Waltos is the one who took her," Mulder suggested. "What are you saying Mulder?" Skinner wondered. "I have the photographic memory, she doesn't, but if she recognized him from your investigation she had to tell us who he is somehow," Mulder explained. "All right, call the Washington PD and find out his whereabouts for the last 48 hours," Skinner said walking away. "We are checking on a lead now. As soon as Mulder verifies the information we are speculating then we will confirm the information Mr. Nicks provided," Skinner told Special Agent Sanchez. "Confirmed sir, it is Detective Waltos. He was fired 5 days ago for insubordination and has been under review for sexual harassment twice since the investigation we were involved in. It is a pretty good chance he is one of our assailants," Mulder said sadly. Somehow he felt responsible for this, not sure why but he felt he was. Skinner pulled his cell phone out and called Kim again and had her get a photo of Det. Waltos faxed to the local police department so they could identify him as one of Scully assailants. "Lt. Lyman is there anyway you can have your men on alert tonight. I am afraid that none of us are going to be any good to Scully if we don't get some sleep until some clues turn up," Skinner said. "Not a problem sir." Lt. Lyman said getting on his radio and informing all 8 of his night crew of the description of Scully and her assailants. Skinner and Mulder where escorted to the local hotel and got rooms. They met in the lobby to get some dinner. They went to The Vine bar and grill. Once the waitress sat them down, Skinner ordered a scotch straight up. Mulder had his usual Iced Tea. "Sir, are you alright?" Mulder asked. "No Mulder, I'm not. I cannot believe that she was taken from the same bed I was in," Skinner said finally letting the anger get to him. "We will find her sir," Mulder said looking at the menu. "You really don't seem affected by this, why?" Skinners asked getting angry. "Sir, I believe Tara. I know we will find her tomorrow. She will be fine or Det Waltos will be dead. It is plain and simple. I will not let myself become the way I was when she was gone before. I am no good to her like that and neither are you sir," Mulder said with a little more anger than he intended. He wasn't happy with Skinner's current condition but for Scully's sake he had to put up with it. They finished their dinners and went back to the hotel. Skinner had the local drug store drop off some sleeping pills. He knew Mulder was right, if he wasn't at his best then who knows who would end up dead. It would do no good for Scully to be alive if he had to sacrifice everyone else. He took one of the pills and lay down. He thought of Scully until he fell asleep. He woke up suddenly to shouting and gunfire outside his room. He couldn't understand what they were saying. He pulled his pants on and got his gun. He peeked out the door and saw Mulder taking a defensive position by the window. Skinner made his move to Mulder's side. "What the hell is going on Mulder?" He barked. "Sir, the Detective and his partner decided to put an end to me and some other personnel staying here. Thankfully one of them decided he wanted to live today," Mulder said taking a shot. "I hope no one was hurt?" Skinner asked. "No sir but two are wounded. They'll live," Mulder said. Skinner took up a position on the other side of the window. Skinner saw the Detective's partner trying to reach a vehicle. Skinner pointed his weapon to the suspect and tried to decide what type of shot to use: kill or wound? He wanted to kill the bastard for taking Scully in the first place. He had to go for the wound to get him the justice he deserved. He shot. Time stood still for the moment. The bullet went through his kneecap and he went down grasping his leg. Just then Mulder shot and killed Det Waltos. `I guess he isn't as forgiving as I am' he thought. "Good job Mulder. Let's get a body count," Skinner said going downstairs dressed only in his pants. Being with Scully was having a profound effect on him. He was doing things he normally didn't do. It was good for his image though. There was 3 other FBI personnel there. Two of them were injured but not too badly to stay out of the firefight. There were also a few officers already on the scene. "Have the paramedics been called?" Skinner barked. "Yes sir. The corner has also been called and a car to pick up Mr. Fred Waltos," the officer said. "He told me he wanted to talk to you specifically sir," the officer said. "I will be there in a minute," Skinner said heading to his room to get dressed. He came back 5 minutes later looking like he came from a tailor. "Mr. Waltos you wanted to speak to me?" Skinner asked trying not to sound angry. "Yes I did. Dana spoke about you, she said she wanted you to know if anything happened to her. My brother made me do this. They told him to do this," he said. "Who told him to do this?" Skinner asked. "I don't know just that they are dropping her off in front of her mothers tonight and she will be fine but Ed got mad and decided to take it out on you guys and we followed you to her and that is when he went nuts," Fred said. "Alright I'll see what I can do to see that the DA knows that you helped us on this but if she is harmed in any way by you, you will wish you had died. Do you understand me Mr. Waltos?" Skinner said getting really pist off. "Yes sir," Fred said putting his head into his lap trying not to hyperventilate. "Mulder contact your friends to see if they can get a fix on her, if not I want you to drive up to Maggie's ASAP. Mr. Waltos said she was going to be dropped off there tonight. Lt. Lymon any more leads if she is still around?" Skinner asked as Mulder sped out of the driveway. "No sir there is no evidence of that," Lyman said sadly. "Alright start searching and see what we can get together. Agent Sanchez and Lt. Williams make sure you interview our suspect and get a statement out of him of all the events that took place between the time Agent Scully was abducted and the time the other people took her. I want a full account," Skinner barked. "Yes sir," they both said and took off for the station. "Det Schmidt, I want you and the others to gather evidence and take statements from witnesses. I will be heading back to Millville to get my belongings and head to Mrs. Scully's house to see what happens. I will be faxing my statement to you Det. Schmidt. Any questions or complaints?" Skinner asked. No one answered. "Good, lets get to work people." He said. "Skinner, the guys lost her signal 20 minutes ago and can't reacquire her signal," Mulder said. "Go to Mrs. Scully's then," Skinner ordered. Mulder took off to his car and peeled out. Skinner headed to his room and collected his and Mulder's belongings. He checked Mulder and himself out of the hotel. He then got his car and went back to Millville. Tara was waiting for him at the door of the Inn. "Well laddy did ya find her?" Tara asked. "Not yet, I am going back to Washington to see if I can find her. One of the guys that took her said she would be dropped off at her moms tonight," he said. "Aye laddy, her mum is the key," Tara said and went into the Inn. "Here ya go laddy, I had your luggage packed an brought down. Now go and get her back laddy. Come see me again," she said and went into the kitchen. He got on the freeway at about 12:50. Mulder had a two-hour head start. Skinner decided to call him to see if he called Maggie. "Mulder," he answered his phone. "Mulder, did you call Mrs. Scully yet?" Skinner asked. "Not yet I figured you would do that sir. Be careful at the change over at the I-895 there was an accident," Mulder said. "Will do, I am about 2 hours behind you. I will meet you at Mrs. Scully's around 4 p.m., I got a couple of things to do first before I get there. Do you have a bullet proof vest in your car?" Skinner asked. "No sir I don't," Mulder said getting worried. "I will make sure there is one there for you. I will see you then Mulder," and he hung up. He immediately called Kim. "Hello." She said answering her phone. "Kim, I need another favor and you'll get another 3 day weekend next weekend with pay," he began. "You don't need to do that sir, what can I do?" she asked. "I need you to go to Mrs. Scully's house and get her out of there. Take her to my office and make sure she takes a lunch and take her to dinner. I will make sure you get reimbursed for the whole dinner. I also need you to get Agent Gilmore and some of his people to Mrs. Scully's house to set up. Dana should be dropped off tonight there. Make sure they take a vest for Mulder. One more thing, I need you to get a hold of Dr. Zuckerman and ask him to be at General Hospital tonight incase she is brought in, she may need medical attention he can provide and get Dr. Gloria St Johns. Her number can be found on my rolodex. I want them standing by at the hospital no later than 4 p.m. and stay until they hear from me. Did you get all that?" he asked. "Yes sir, I will have Dr. Zuckerman and Dr. St Johns at the hospital at 4pm and I am on my way to get Mrs. Scully," she said. "You are fantastic Kim. I will be heading for Mrs. Scully's now. Mulder is already in route. Wait there until Mulder shows up. He should be there soon the way he drives," Skinner said. "Yes sir," she said and hung up. He then placed a call to Mrs. Scully. "Scully residence," Maggie answered. "Mrs. Scully this is Walter," he began. "Have you found her yet Walter?" Maggie said hopeful. "Not yet ma'am but from our suspect says she will be returned at your house this evening. I am having my secretary take you out of there and Mulder and I with a little help from Agent Gilmore and friends will hide in the house waiting for her. I want you at my office just in case something happens," he began. "Walter who has Dana?" she asked afraid to find out. "Mr. Waltos said they had her. Who ever they are?" he said. "Do you think it is the same people that took her before?" she asked suddenly terrified. "I am afraid so. But they told Waltos that she would be returned tonight so I don't know what is going on," he said hoping to calm her but not knowing how. "Alright Walter. I will be at your office. But do try to be careful. This is my home," she said. "Not a problem Mrs. Scully. Oh, Mrs. Scully when things calm down can I talk to you in private?" he asked. "Sure Walter, what is it about?" she asked. "I don't really want to talk about until Dana is home and safe," he said. "Alright then, by," she said and hung up. He called Mulder again. "Mulder," he said sounding relaxed. "Mulder, everything is set up. Agent Gilmore will be at Mrs. Scully's house. Kim is going to be taking Mrs. Scully to my office to wait. I need you to go directly to her house to make first contact and secure the house until Gilmore can get there," Skinner said. "Not a problem sir, I am about 45 minutes away," Mulder said. "How. Never mind I don't want to know. I told Mrs. Scully you were coming," he told him. "No problem. I'll see you when you get their sir," Mulder said. "Do me one favor Mulder, be nice to Gilmore I know you two don't get along but for Scully's sake please be nice," Skinner said. "If I have to," Mulder said and hung up. Skinner turned on his radio. He slid in his Time2 CD by Journey. He started listening to them in college. A friend of his went to Berkley and sent him 8 Tracks of them. He really didn't start liking them till Steve Perry joined the band in 77'. He started singing with them in one of Steve Perry's first song Lights. He was driving along remembering all the fun and hard work he put in at U of T. He had changed so much since then. He didn't know what to think. When he was near Dana it all changed, he was the way he was then. He had been dating Sharon then. In fact when he got the job at the FBI he had asked her to marry him. But that was ancient history now. He had Dana. He wanted her to be his wife now and didn't know what to do. He was scared that she would be in worse shape than last time she came back. He almost went nuts last time. Mulder just beat him to it. He had to keep Mulder in check or it could have turned into a really bad situation. He always thought that Dana and Mulder had something going on, especially after her return. He jut was never sure until they got involved. He had been with Dana for 2 months. He knew she loved him and he loved her. Now he just had to make this all work out if he was to marry again. Not that it would be soon, probably a year or so, hopefully. Before he knew it he was getting off the highway near Maggie's house. He drove down the street looking for his agents. He looked at his watch 3:30. He was surprised he made such good time but it was a holiday. He parked a block from her house as not to crowd the front of her house. "AD Skinner, we got everything ready," Agent Gilmore started. Skinner got out of his car and popped the trunk to get his vest out. "Mrs. Scully out of the house?" Skinner asked. "Yes sir, she left with Kimberly several hours ago," Gilmore stated. "Where is Mulder?" he asked. "He is inside talking to her now," Gilmore replied. "Very well let's get into position. We don't have an exact time on this. How many Agents do we have?" he asked. "We have 8. I made sure we had a change over incase they ran late," Gilmore said opening the door. They went into the house and got situated. He had two agents take up positions in the hedges on either side of the house. He also had two agents in the upstairs windows. Mulder and himself were in the windows downstairs. And the wait began. He had everyone fitted for earpieces earlier and had everyone check in every 20 minutes on rotation. As the sky grew dark, everyone started to get restless. He ordered change over at 9pm; he didn't want his agents getting tired or sloppy. He knew Mulder and himself had too much at stake to back down. Agent Gilmore was in the bush on the left side of the house when the van came down the street. "Skinner, van coming down the road approximately 15 miles per hour. Color black, no plates, and no lights," Gilmore said trying to get a better view of the van. "On your toes people this may be it," Skinner said getting anxious himself. The van door opened and they pushed her out of the side and sped off before anyone could fire a shot. Gilmore was the first one to her. "Get an ambulance. She is unconscious, she has a pulse and is breathing shallow," Gilmore reported. "I got it," Mulder said calling. Skinner made a beeline for her. All 8 agents were surrounding Scully and providing cover for her until the ambulance came. Skinner knelt down beside her. She was still wearing her nightgown. "Scully, can you hear me?" Skinner asked suddenly panicked. "Scully, wake up." He pulled her head into his lap and started smacking her cheek. Nothing. He checked her pulse again. It was slow but steady. `Probably drugged,' he thought. The ambulance arrived in 4 minutes. Skinner sent everyone else to do the paper work. "Mulder I expect you to meet us there with Mrs. Scully," Skinner directed. "Yes sir," Mulder said as he took off in his car. The medical team put her into the ambulance and tried to push Skinner out. "Sir we have to get her to the hospital," the EMT said. "I am going with you now and I am her boyfriend. If you have any other questions I can have the Director of the FBI give you a new job sweeping the streets of Washington. Are we clear?" Skinner asked with all the fury he was feeling. "Get in then, we don't have a lot of time. Tell me her personal stats and brief description of what she has been up against," the EMT said tying not to look intimidated. Skinner gave him a full run down on the past few days The ride to the hospital was typical. Skinner held her hand while the EMT did his work taking vitals and trying to figure out what was wrong with her. "General this is Ambulance 359, we have a female, age 34, FBI Agent, vitals indicate patient is under sedation of a chemical nature. Type unknown. Any instructions?" the EMT advised. "Ambulance 359 this is General start an IV with glucose drip. 12ml per minute. Advise if patient regains consciousness or any other problem arises. Estimated ETA?" General said. "ETA 8 minutes. Ambulance 359 out," the EMT said and started getting the materials for the IV started. "Sir, could you allow me one moment please?" the EMT asked. Skinner gave him her arm. They arrived at the hospital and Dr. Zuckerman and Dr St Johns met them at the Ambulance door. "What is her status?" Dr. Zuckerman started. "No change Doctor," the EMT stated. "Walter, I hope you don't have first hand knowledge that I am going to be needed here?" Gloria said. "Gloria, I am not sure that is why I asked for you to be here just in case," he said sadly. "Walter you are going to need to stay here," she said as they wheeled her into the room. Walter went to the hospital entrance to wait for Mulder and Mrs. Scully. He didn't have to wait long. Mulder and Mrs. Scully bounded from the front entrance. "Is she alright, is she hurt, where is she?" Mrs. Scully screamed all at once. "They are examining her now. Come with me," Skinner and Mulder lead her to the examining room. Dr. St Johns came out first. "Mom, how are you?" she asked seeing her there. "Don't worry about me, what about Dana?" Maggie asked desperately. "Don't worry Dana is going to be fine," she started pulling the three of them to the waiting room. "Dana has been through some kind of surgery. We don't know what yet but we are looking. She wasn't raped, that I can tell you," she said knowing this was probably the reason she was called. "Thank God," Walter said with a sigh of relief. "They are moving her to X-ray now to see if they can figure it out. She was given a strong anaesthetic. She will regain consciousness soon. Walter you can talk to her then if you want to ask her any questions," she said. "I believe she would want to see her mother first," Walter said. "OK that is fine," she said. "Maggie come with me," she said. Walter saw Maggie and Dr St Johns walk toward the recovery room. He was worried that they did some other operation on her to make her more alien. With the cancer gone, who knows what else they did to her. "Mulder how's Mrs. Scully really doing?" he asked. "She is doing better than the last time. She says this time things will right all the wrongs," Mulder said not knowing if she was right or not. "We'll see," Skinner said. He started to pace, waiting for Maggie to get back. He looked at his watch 10:30pm. `How much longer,' he thought. "Walter she wants to see you," Maggie said coming out of her daughter's room. "Thanks Mrs. Scully," Walter said practically running into her room. "Dana," he said opening her door. "Hey, from what I hear we had a pretty bad 4th of July," she said groggily. "Yeah, but I promise to make it up," Walter said sitting on her bed. "What happened?" she said. "You were taken out of bed by Det Waltos and his brother Fred. Someone had you for over 24 hours. We are not sure whom because Mulder killed Det Waltos this morning 13 hours before you were dumped out of a van in front of her mothers," Skinner said looking down. "I am sorry I let this happen to you. I don't know why it happened," he said almost in a rage. He got off the bed and started pacing the room. "Walter, I don't ever want to hear you say that again. You couldn't know that. They may have drugged you," she said, trying not to sound too groggy. "How do you know? How would I ever know? If there was anything in my system it is out now," he said. "Walter." she began. Her mother, Dr. Zuckerman and Dr. St Johns interrupted her. "Alright. Now that we are all here," Dr. Zuckerman started. "Uh, Dr. Zuckerman can we have Mulder come in?" Scully asked. "Sure," he said opening the door. "Mulder, come in here please." "Thanks," Mulder said taking a seat by Skinner. "Alright. Now we have a couple test results back that we wanted to discuss with you all. Dana, we do know you have had a surgery. We are not completely sure on what it is. However, we do know that it involves your reproductive organs. Namely your ovaries. Dr. St Johns," Zuckerman stated handing the explanation over to his colleague. "Dana, you came to me after your abduction and we did a complete work up right?" she asked. "Yes of course and we determined that I was sterile. That they had taken all my eggs," Dana said hesitantly. "Well, I repeated the same battery of tests. You have been implanted with different ovaries. These ovaries are of the same blood type and DNA sequence. They are essentially yours except, they have been cloned. You essentially have the egg complicate of a 13 year old female," Dr. St Johns said. Dana looked at Gloria, then to her mother, then to Walter, and then to Mulder. "Gloria you are saying I can have children now?" she asked not trusting her ears. "Yes Dana, you can have children till you are 70 at the rate your going," Gloria said with a big smile on her face. "Congratulations Dana," everyone started to hug and cry. Dana didn't know what to think. Walter saw this as his chance to have the children he had always wanted. Maggie always wanted a house full of grandchildren. Mulder saw this as his only opportunity to be an active uncle. "Gloria, is there anything else?" Dana asked. "No, you are perfectly healthy with all the tests we have conducted so far," she said. With that the two Doctors left the room. The four of them sat there looking at each other not knowing what to do or what to say. "Mulder why don't you keep Scully occupied for a while so I can talk to Mrs. Scully." Walter said. "Not a problem." Mulder said scooting his chair next to Scully. Walter and Mrs. Scully left into the hallway. "What was that about?" Scully asked. "Don't know. So, when do you want to start getting into trouble with me again?" he asked with a smile on his face. "Mrs. Scully please have a seat," Walter began. They sat at a bench outside of the hospital. "I know you have never approved of me with your daughter, but I love her. I want to marry her. I know this is sudden but I have lost her twice and I don't want to wait any longer than I have too. She may not be there if I wait," he said looking at her. "Why are you asking me?" she said skeptically. "I can't ask her father, I can't ask her brother's because I haven't met them and she hasn't let me talk to them. I only want what is best for her and I believe that is having enough respect for her family as I do her to ask for her hand in marriage," he said getting more nervous than he wanted. "Walter, welcome to the family. Now the only test you have with me is Fox. If he says it is ok then it is fine with me. I always thought it would be him who would ask me to merry her," she said. "Thanks Mrs. Scully," he said with a big smile. "Call me mom," she said. "Here is the ring." He said pulling a small box out of his pocket. The ring was a small gold band wrapped with a silver rope and a ¬ cut diamond. "Oh Walter she is going to love this," she said looking at the ring. "I sure hope so. Well shall we pop the question?" he said with a smile. He held out his hand and escorted her back to Dana's room. Maggie walked into Dana's room. Fox and Dana were sitting on her bed talking about a case he had looked into. "Fox, Walter would like to talk to you for a minute. I think it is business," she said. "Oh, thanks mom," he said. "Dana, lie back sweetie. You need your rest," Maggie said. "Mom, what did Walter and you talk about?" Dana asked. "You'll find out soon enough dear," Maggie said. "Don't think you two will be keeping me away from work for very long," she said. "Mulder, I wanted to talk to you for a moment," Walter began hesitantly. "Ok," Mulder started not knowing what was going on. "I want to ask Dana to marry me," Walter blurted out. "I see, and mom told you to ask me didn't she?" Mulder asked. "Yes she did," Walter said uncomfortably. "I am glad to give you my blessing. I knew this was coming but I didn't think it would be this soon," Mulder said. They shook hands. "Let me see the ring," Mulder said. Walter pulled it out. Mulder opened the box and saw the ring. "Oh my, she is going to love this. What about the FBI?" Mulder asked. "Well I happen to be friends with the Director and we are working on it," Walter said. "Well let's see what she has to say," Walter said. They walked in and Maggie was sitting on the side of the bed talking with Dana. "Dana, I think we need to have a talk," Walter said. "Come on Fox, let's leave these two love birds alone," Maggie said taking Fox's arm and heading out the door. "Dana, we have been through a lot lately and I need to know if you will always be by my side," Walter began. "Walter we may have our differences and problems but I think we can make this work," she said. Walter pulled the small box out of his jacket for the last time. "Dana Katherine Scully, would you do me the honor of being my wife?" Walter asked opening the box. Dana stared at the box unmoving. Slowly she found the strength to take the box from his hand. She looked at the ring and looked at Walter. Tears started to pour from her eyes. "Oh Walter. It. It's beautiful. Is this what you really want?" she asked. "Yes Dana, I really want you to be with me. I have only felt like this once and I was afraid. I don't want to be afraid to be with you. I just want to be there for you. I want you to be there for me. I want to have a family. Please tell me you want this too," he said getting really nervous that she was going to turn him down. "Yes Walter, yes," she said throwing her arms around him. He pulled away and put the ring on her finger. "Well, I heard a yes, how long do I have to wait for more grandchildren?" Maggie asked with a smile on her face. "Well mom, we got a few problems to figure out and a wedding to plan first," Walter said with a smile. "Mom look," Dana said with tears in her eyes. "I've seen it. I knew you would like it. He did do it proper you know. He asked me and then Fox for you hand in marriage," Maggie informed her only daughter now. She looked at Walter and the tears started again. "Oh Walter," she said giving him a big hug. Walter's phone began to ring. "Skinner," he said trying to be his normal grumpy voice. "Walter, this is Ralph. Is Agent Scully going to be ok?" the director asked. "Yes sir she is. I am with her now. Do you want to talk to her?" Skinner asked. "Yes I would," Ralph agreed. "Dana, it is Director Edwards. He doesn't know about our engagement," Skinner advised. "Yes sir, what can I do for you?" Dana asked. "Agent Scully, I know Walter has told you that I am reviewing all records since you two started dating. I am happy to say that you two have kept up your professionalism and I am glad I don't have to separate you yet," he said. "Sir what are you trying to tell me?" Dana asked not knowing if he gave them his blessing or not. "Well Agent Scully I know my wife is going to hate the idea of you with Walter since she loved Sharon and all, but I am giving you two my blessing," he said. "Thank you very much sir. I am sure Walter would like to talk to you now. Good by sir," she said handing the phone back to Walter. "He gave us his blessing," she whispered to him. "Yes Ralph," Walter said holding the phone back up to his ear. "Well I told Agent Scully that I approve of you two. I can back it up too. Even though you have yelled at Mulder more than usual from what Kim has told me. I guess that is to be expected. I want to have you two over for dinner when she gets better ok," he asked. "Yes sir. We'll be there," Walter said and hung up. "Well, we just got invited to go over to the Directors for dinner," Walter said. "I take it you two got the official nod?" Mulder asked. "Yes Mulder we did," he said putting his arm around his fianc‚.