Title: Love on the Run (1/1)
Author: L. M. Shard
Email: lsshard@cox.net
Date completed: March 29, 2002
Website: www.thefoxandhoundx-files.com 
Rating: NC-17
Category: S, R, A
Spoilers: Provenance
Keywords: Doggett/Scully friendship, Doggett/Scully 
romance
Archive: Probably anywhere, just ask first.
Feedback: Yes!
Disclaimer: All X-Files characters are the property of Chris 
Carter, 1013, and Fox.  No copyright infringement is 
intended and no money is being made by this.
Thanks to: Ginger for the title and other suggestions, 
Diandra, and Megan.
Author's Note: This begins from that one scene in 
"Provenance" where Scully is "interrogating" Comer on the 
floor of William's room.  It is how I think the episode 
should have continued.  It has angst, fluff, and sex; a solid 
dose of DSR.
Summary: When William's life is in danger, Doggett 
protects him and Scully.  OR
When threats begin to pile up against Scully's son, Doggett 
does all he can to protect him and Scully.



LOVE ON THE RUN
By: L. M. Shard



Dana Scully called John Doggett into her bedroom.  He was 
shocked at what he found laying on her floor.  The 
undercover FBI Agent Comer was bleeding, dying from 
gunshot wounds inflicted earlier by Scully.  Scully told 
Doggett that he had tried to kill William and that she had 
shot him and now she was trying to get information out of 
him.

"You called the ambulance, right?"  Doggett had to ask.  He 
had an uneasy suspicion.

"No, not until he tells me why he tried to kill my son!" she 
almost screamed, panic heavy in her voice. 

She dove down to the ground where the man lay bleeding 
and grabbed him by the shirt collar, yelling, "Why are you 
trying to kill my son?!"

Doggett couldn't believe the scene before him.  He had a 
million emotions pulling on him at once: shock, duty, 
responsibility, and a great compassion for Scully.  But the 
one that won out at that moment, the one that had to win out 
for so many reasons was what he did, automatically: he 
pulled out his cell phone and dialed 911.  When he knew the 
ambulance would be arriving shortly, he did what his heart 
needed him to do.  He knelt down beside the frantic Scully 
and put his hands firmly on her shoulders in an effort to 
calm, comfort, and support her at the same time.

"Agent Scully!" he exclaimed, willing her to turn around 
and look at him.  "Agent Scully…Dana!"

At the sound of her given name she turned to face him and 
caught his firm stare.  "You must do what you can to save 
this man's life 'till the paramedics get here!"

"But then I'll never get the information I need once they get 
here and the FBI gets a hold of him!" she screamed 
desperately.  Didn't he understand?!

"Look at him, Dana!" he shouted back, seeing that the man 
was in no condition to talk anyway.  "He's unconscious!"

Suddenly, she realized what she was doing, and against 
every motherly instinct, she followed her trained medical 
instinct and did what she could to prolong the man's life.  
After what seemed like infinite moments, the paramedics 
finally arrived and took over.  

Scully left the room and stood outside the bedroom door.  
Her nerves were shot, her emotions in turmoil.  

A couple minutes later, after having given the paramedics 
whatever information he could, Doggett walked over to her 
and immediately wrapped her in his arms.  She let him 
embrace her, needing some comfort, some grounding in this 
whirlwind of fear, rage, and helplessness that she felt.  They 
hugged in silence until the paramedics walked by with 
Comer on a stretcher and exited her apartment.  Then she let 
the tears flow, not able to hold them in anymore.  Her body 
shook involuntarily as the reality of what had just gone on 
in the last half hour came crashing into her consciousness 
like a bright, burning ball of fire.  He stroked her back with 
his hand and pulled her tighter against him with the other.

"He tried to kill my baby," she mumbled through her tears, 
"and he almost did; if I hadn't come at that second…"

"Shh, William's safe now.  You protected him," he tried to 
soothe, but he knew of the pain she was going through, he 
knew what it was like to have the other outcome, the final, 
dreadful one.  He also knew that although safe for the 
moment, she and William were no longer safe in this 
apartment.

"Dana, I want you and William to stay with me for the 
night.  I think you'll be safer," he suggested, hoping she 
would accept his offer.  He had to protect her and the baby.  
If anything did happen to them, he would never forgive 
himself.

She quickly tried to regain some semblance of composure, 
embarrassed that she had cried in his arms like some weak 
doe of a woman.  Looking at him with a red and tear-
streaked face, she wanted to protest, but knew he was right.  
They were not safe here.  "Okay," she simply said, almost in 
a whisper.  She suddenly felt sapped of all energy.

"Pack some things for you and William and I'll call Monica 
and have her bring him to my place as soon as possible," he 
said, taking control over the situation.

She nodded and walked into the bedroom, momentarily 
glancing at the large bloodstain on the carpet.  Quickly 
throwing together some clothes and toiletries for herself and 
the baby, she rushed back to Doggett who was waiting in 
the living room.  She suddenly couldn't wait to leave her 
home and leave this nightmare behind.  Doggett took the 
bags from her and they exited the apartment.

Reyes arrived at Doggett's house with William just minutes 
after Scully and Doggett did.  With great relief and love, 
Scully took her baby from Reyes' arms and hugged him 
tightly to her chest.

"Thanks for watching him, Monica," she said, tears already 
threatening to spill onto her cheeks.

Reyes looked at her with great compassion and touched her 
shoulder gently, "I'm just glad he's safe.  He's a wonderful 
baby."  She gave her a smile and Scully returned it.  "You'll 
both be safe here with John.  I know he'll make sure of it," 
she added, indeed knowing that Doggett would do anything 
to protect them.  She had had a feeling for some time now 
that Doggett thought of Scully as more than just as a 
coworker.  She could see it in the way he looked at her, the 
way his gaze followed her when she left a room.

"Thanks, Monica," Scully said softly.

"I better get going.  I know you must be very tired," she said 
and turned to leave.

"I'll walk you out," Doggett offered and opened the door for 
her.  They walked into the cool night air.

"Thanks a lot, Monica," he said as they stood by her car.

She smiled.  "No problem, John."

"I'm probably gonna to move us in the mornin', so don't be 
surprised if we're not here," he said, knowing he needed to 
take the side of caution.

She shook her head in agreement.  "That's probably best.  I 
have an odd feeling about all this.  Good luck and please let 
me know if I can do anything to help."

"Thanks," he said and gave her a quick hug.  She was a 
good woman.  One he could trust and always count on.

Back inside the house, Doggett found Scully sitting on the 
couch with William in her arms.  The baby was fast asleep.  
Quietly he sat next to her and whispered, "I'm gonna make 
up a little makeshift bed for William where he can sleep 
tonight and then I'll make us some dinner."

She smiled warmly at him.  He was so good to her, had been 
from Day One.  Why she couldn't quite understand, 
considering she hadn't really accepted him with open arms 
and it had taken her a long time to trust him.  "Thanks, John.  
I really appreciate all you're doing."

He returned her warm smile.  "Glad I can help."  He was 
pleased she was allowing him to help her.  "I'll be back 
shortly," he said and left the room.

Scully reached for her cell phone and called her mom to ask 
how she was and let her know where they were staying.  Her 
mother was relieved to hear that her daughter and 
grandchild would be safe, at least for tonight.  She knew 
Doggett wouldn't allow any harm to come to either of them.

About fifteen minutes later, Doggett was finished and lead 
Scully up to his bedroom.  He pointed to the little bed in the 
corner that he made out of couch seat cushions covered by a 
crisp white cotton sheet.  "How's that?" he asked rather 
proudly.

Scully was amazed at his ingenuity.  The bed was perfect 
for William, but she noticed that they were standing in his 
bedroom, not the guest bedroom.  "John, it's perfect, but the 
guest room would have been fine for us."

"Well, I thought my room would give you more privacy, 
since the bathroom's attached.  I'll sleep in the guest room."

"I don't want to kick you out of your own bed, John!  
You've already done enough for us!" she said, although 
deeply touched by his kindness and consideration.  What a 
gentleman he was, through and through!

"No, I insist.  You've been uprooted from your home and I 
just wanna make it as painless as possible.  Please."  He 
looked at her with great feeling in his eyes.

"Well thank you," she said with a rather shy smile.

"Why don't you put William down and then come join me 
for dinner?" he suggested.

"I'll be there," she said and walked into the room.

Ten minutes later she was back downstairs, her stomach 
growling.  She had changed into a pair of comfortable 
heather grey sweats and traded in her shoes for thick socks.

"Dinner's almost ready," he said.  "Nothin' fancy, just some 
pasta and heated up marinara sauce I made the other day."

"You made your own marinara sauce?"  Scully was 
astounded that he could cook at all, let alone from scratch.

He grinned widely.  "Does that surprise you?"

"Well, yes."  She grinned back.

"It was kinda a necessity.   There's only so much takeout I 
can stand.  So one day I just called up my mom and asked 
her for some of my favorite childhood recipes—the easy 
ones, that is—and she sent me a bunch over email.  And, 
voila, marinara sauce was one of them.  I just make a big 
batch, freeze it, and then have it on hand for weeks 
whenever I need it."

"Well, I am impressed," she said sincerely.  The more she 
learned about this man, the more she liked.  "What can I do 
to help?"

"You can set the table while I throw together a salad, if 
you'd like," he suggested, smiling at her.  He liked this, 
having Dana Scully over to his house for dinner.  He knew 
the circumstances were dire, but still he enjoyed being with 
her like this, outside of the workplace.

Minutes later they were at the dining room table eating their 
meal.

"Umm, very good, John.  You can cook for me anytime you 
want," she said.  Somehow this simple meal tasted 
incredibly delicious.  Maybe it was because of the company 
as well as the sense of safety and security she felt, which 
had been lacking from her life for many months now.  
Whatever it was, she was enjoying herself, despite what 
terrors the day had brought earlier.

He smiled in thanks.  "I'd love to cook for you more often," 
he said, before he realized just what he was saying.  God, he 
wanted to cook for her, share meals with her, every day for 
the rest of their lives, but this was not the time to reveal the 
secrets of his heart.

"I'd like that," she responded, surprising herself at her 
frankness.

Pleased, he smiled lovingly at her then quickly changed the 
subject.  "My family has a cabin 'bout three hours from here.  
No one knows 'bout it 'cept for my family, of course, and 
Monica.  I think it'd be good if we stayed there 'till the 
danger passes."

Scully thought over his suggestion for a moment and agreed 
that they'd be safer if no one, or very few people, knew 
where they were.  Doggett's main residence was on all of the 
FBI's human resources and payroll paperwork, but this 
cabin would not be.  "Sounds like a good idea."

"Glad you agree.  We'll leave first thing in the mornin'," he 
said.

"You know, John, you don't have to stay with William and 
me until the danger passes.  I mean it could end up being 
weeks or so.  William and I would be fine alone at the cabin.  
I'm sure Kersh wants you back at the office and I don't want 
to put your life on hold," she said, not wanting to burden 
him further.  The man had already done so much for her and 
her baby.  Although she liked and wanted him with her, she 
had no right in asking or expecting that kind of attention.

"There's no way I'm gonna to leave you two alone when 
there's people out there who want to kill your son!  I'd never 
be able to live with myself if anythin' happened to either of 
you," Doggett said sternly.  He was going to personally 
assure their protection, no matter what it took.  "As for 
missin' work, that's already been taken care of.  After I made 
that little bed for William, I gave Skinner a call and he was 
insistent I stay with you 'till all this passes.  He told me he'd 
deal with Kersh."

She was rather surprised at his eagerness and devotion to 
her protection, although he had been protective of her from 
the start.  He was putting her and William first, even though 
it was not his job to do so, and it made her feel…special.  
Yes, special, like no man had ever made her feel before.  
But then again, perhaps he was doing this because he 
couldn't save his own son, and now he had an opportunity to 
save her son, and he felt an "obligation" to do so, to try to 
gain some control in uncontrollable situations.  Whatever it 
was, she was grateful.

She didn't know what she should say, so she simply said, 
"Thanks," and gave him a small, rather shy smile.  She did 
feel much safer with him around, but she was not ready to 
admit that to him, at least not yet.  Ever since she could 
remember, she always had had the compulsion that she had 
to be strong and independent, at least appear strong and 
independent.

Doggett smiled back then asked, "Do you wanna get some 
shut-eye now, or I should light a fire in the fireplace and we 
could sit for a while?"

He knew she was very tired and was actually surprised 
when she said, "I'd love to sit by the fire.  Even though I'm 
pretty beat, I still need to unwind a bit.  The day has just 
been so, so—"

"I know," he interrupted.  "Lemme start the fire, then I'll 
clean up here and join you."

"Oh, let me help you with the clean up," she said.

"No, Dana.  I'll do it.  Please, go relax."  She needed some 
peace.  The last thing she should worry about was dirty 
dishes.

"Alright," she said and walked over to the couch as he 
started the fire.  Within minutes it was ablaze with soothing 
light and heat.

Shortly thereafter, he joined her.  "All done," he said and 
took a seat next to her.  She had her legs tucked under her 
and was curled in the corner of the couch.

"That was fast," she remarked, amazed.

"Thank God for dishwashers!"  He laughed.

She flashed him a big smile.  "Umm, this is so wonderful, 
John.  The heat, the sound of the crackling wood, the warm 
glow of the fire; it's all so relaxing.  Just what I needed.  
Thank you."

"I'm glad you're enjoyin' it, but please stop thankin' me for 
everythin'," he said, looking at her seriously.  "I hope you 
know by now that I'd do anythin' for you."  Where did that 
come from?  He knew he had stepped over a line, even if it 
was a small one.

She met his gaze and felt the intensity in it.  "I do," she 
whispered and touched his hand.  Immediately, he turned his 
hand around and grasped hers in a gentle, yet firm hold.  
They just looked at each other and held hands for a long 
time, letting a much-needed feeling of peace surround them.  
They were comfortable in each other's presence and in their 
silence, and eventually Scully's eyes became very heavy 
with sleep.  She jerked just as she nodded off and looked up 
to find Doggett gazing at her, warmth radiating from his 
eyes.  They glowed amber in the firelight and reflected 
something profound and powerful, yet she was too sleepy to 
put her finger on it.

"Why don't you go to bed," he suggested gently, his voice 
cracking slightly.

She nodded.  "Yeah, I better.  I just can't keep my eyes 
open."

They stood up simultaneously, then Doggett said, "I put 
some fresh towels on the bathroom counter.  If you need 
anything else…" he started to say, as another thought 
pushed through his mind.  "Oh, I forgot to change the sheets 
for you!  Lemme quickly go do that; I promise to be quiet 
and not wake William."

"Oh, John, don't worry about it.  I don't mind.  Besides, I'm 
so tired, I don't even really care right now," she said 
truthfully.  She swayed slightly in her fatigue.

Doggett grabbed her arm to steady her and said, "Are you 
sure?  It's no problem—"

"Really, John, I don't mind at all."  She smiled weakly up to 
him.  Right now all she really wanted to do was go to sleep.

He saw the extreme fatigue in her eyes and let it go, taking 
small comfort in the fact that he had washed them only three 
days ago.  Although he was rather embarrassed to have his 
guest sleep in his slept-in sheets, it was apparent that it 
didn't bother her.  He knew that if the tables were turned, he 
would relish the thought of sleeping in her slept-in sheets.  
But he knew her reasoning was far from his reasoning for 
wanting to do so. 

He smiled.  "Let's go upstairs," he said, turning off the 
lights.  "I'm gonna hit the sack too."

They walked to the bedroom together and stopped at the 
door.  Without thinking, she fell into his arms in a rather 
sloppy hug saying, "Goodnight, John."

"Goodnight," he repeated, delighted at her unexpected 
embrace, and they walked into their separate rooms.

Scully didn't even bother brushing her teeth or putting on 
her pajamas, she was so exhausted.  Instead she glanced at 
her sleeping angel and climbed directly into bed.  As she lay 
her head down on the pillow, John Doggett's scent filled her 
nostrils.  She inhaled deeply, finding great comfort in the 
masculine and familiar smell, and pulled the sheets over her 
more closely.  Surrounded by his essence, she felt cozy and 
safe, and quickly feel into a deep, dreamless sleep.

In the other bedroom, sleep did not come as easily to 
Doggett.  He felt responsible for the two precious lives in 
the room next to him and he was determined to keep them 
safe.  Absently, he fingered the gun at his side.  Thoughts of 
the death of his own son plagued him and that feeling of 
helplessness and hopelessness that he always felt when 
thinking of his death, returned once again.  He tried to push 
his emotions out of his mind, and eventually sleep did claim 
him as well.

Doggett rose early the next morning, having not slept well, 
and packed a duffle bag with clothes and toiletries for their 
stay at the cabin.  Then he silently padded downstairs, 
grabbed a cooler from the garage and filled it with fruit, four 
sandwiches, chips, and several drinks for the road.  He then 
proceeded to make a breakfast of Canadian bacon, eggs, and 
toast.  

The coffee had just finished brewing when he heard soft 
footsteps behind him.  He turned around to find Scully with 
a bright-eyed William in her arms.  She was still in the 
sweats she had worn last night and her hair was tousled, but 
she looked absolutely radiant and beautiful to Doggett.

"Good mornin'," he said warmly, finding it difficult to take 
his eyes off her.  "You sleep well?"

"Good morning to you too, and yes, I actually did sleep 
well, thanks to you," she responded with a smile.  "And I 
thought last night would have been plagued by nightmares, 
yet I can't recall any dreams at all."  She felt safe, that's what 
it all boiled down to.  Safe like she hadn't felt since even 
before William's birth.

"Good," he said, but he knew the nightmares would come.  
It was just a matter of time.  Walking over to William he 
asked, "May I?" and opened his arms to receive him.

"Of course," she said, warmed at the fact he was interested 
in holding him.  She placed him in Doggett's secure arms.

"And how'd you sleep, big guy?" he asked the baby, smiling 
down at him.  He gave him a little tickle and William 
squealed in delight.  "Let's see what we have here," he said 
walking him to the stovetop.  "Eggs, Canadian bacon, toast, 
and coffee.  I hope your mommy is hungry!"  William 
giggled in reply.

"Actually, I am," Scully said and proceeded to set the table 
and fill the plates with the scrumptious-looking breakfast.  
"This looks great, John.  What a delicious way to wake up in 
the morning."

"We'll let's dig in before it gets cold," he said, putting 
William in his car seat and placing him on top of the far end 
of the table so he could observe them eating.

About twenty minutes later they were finished with their 
meal and Scully went upstairs for a quick shower.  They 
both felt an urgency that they should leave as soon as 
possible, and within another half hour they had piled 
William, the duffle bags, the baby bags, and the cooler of 
food in Scully's car.  They had decided that her four-door 
sedan was roomier than Doggett's truck.

"Would you like me to drive?" Doggett asked after he 
locked up his house.

Since Doggett knew the way and she was just not in the 
mood for sitting behind the wheel on a long drive, she 
gladly relinquished the keys to him.  Besides, this way she 
could entertain William if he became fussy.  "That'd be 
great."

He took the keys from her and opened the passenger side 
door for her.  She sat down, the chivalrous gesture not being 
lost on her, and he gently shut the door after her.  Minutes 
later they were on the freeway heading out of Falls Church 
and to the cabin.

The ride was pleasant and they shared comfortable 
conversation.  Just over halfway to their destination, 
Doggett asked, "Gettin' hungry?"  His stomach was 
growling to be filled.

"Yeah.  Good you packed us a lunch 'cause I don't see any 
sign of civilization for miles," she remarked, looking at the 
wide expanse of meadow around them.  They had been 
driving through it for a quarter hour and it didn't look like it 
was going to end anytime soon.  Not that she was 
complaining; it was simply beautiful, something she did not 
see often enough.

"I know.  I love this stretch of road," Doggett said, pulling 
over at an exceptionally scenic spot.  "My family and I used 
to have picnics here all the time on the way up to the cabin.  
It was kind of a tradition."

"Sounds wonderful," she said, taking the sleeping William 
with his car seat out of the car.  Doggett grabbed a blanket 
and the cooler and they headed toward one of the several 
trees scattered in the meadow and spread out under its 
shade.  The setting was truly exquisite.  Thousands of little 
yellow and white flowers peppered the long, green meadow 
grass and the sky was a vibrant blue, reminding Scully of 
the color of Doggett's eyes.

"So you and your family would come to this cabin every 
summer?"  Scully asked as they made themselves 
comfortable on the blanket and passed out the sandwiches.

"Yeah, every summer without fail.  We had the cabin ever 
since I can remember.  Even now we still all use it as sort of 
a refuge from the insanity of real life, just now we go 
separately and at different times of the year."

Scully realized that she actually knew nothing of Doggett's 
family and she was interested to know more.  "So tell me 
about your family," she said taking a bite of her sandwich.

He smiled.  "Well, whaddya wanna know?"

She shrugged her shoulders.  "Any brothers or sisters?"

"I've got one younger brother, Mike.  We get along great, 
although we're pretty different from each other."  He 
chuckled, thinking about him.

"Oh, really?  Like how?"

"He's more of a free spirit: impulsive, a bit wild, really 
gung-ho to try anythin' and everythin'.  He's the type to go 
bungee jumpin' and skydivin'."

"And you're not?" she asked playfully.

He grinned.  "Well, I think our jobs at the FBI, and my 
former one as a cop, brings me enough thrills 'n' chills.  But 
you never know, I might surprise you," he said, the grin still 
on his lips.

He already had many times over the year they had known 
each other.  She returned his grin and asked, "What about 
your parents?"

"My dad was a Marine for six years, then became a New 
York City cop.  Guess I kinda followed in his footsteps."  
He smiled.  "He's retired now.  My mom took care of us 
kids.  She was, and still is, a homemaker.  We're all really 
close.  I see 'em about once a month or so.  You'd like 'em 
and they'd like you, as would my brother, but he'd…." He 
let his sentence trail off, not wanting to offend her.

"He'd what?" she asked curiously. 

He gave her a lopsided smile.  "Well, let's just say he'd 
 like you and he wouldn't exactly be a gentleman 
about showin' his admiration.

"Sounds like he'd be fun to meet," she said with a playful 
smirk.

He smirked right back at her and gave her an intense stare.  
Yes, his brother would be all over her, that was for sure.  
"Maybe you will someday.  What about your family?"

"Well, I think you know about my sister from the files," she 
said sadly.

"Yeah," he said quietly, kicking himself for asking.  He 
certainly didn't want to bring up painful memories.

"And I have two brothers: an older one who is married and 
has a child and a younger one still in college.  My father 
died about eight years ago, and you know my mom."

"Your mom's great.  I'm glad you have her to help you out 
with William.  It must be really hard raisin' him alone," he 
said regretting it the moment he said it.  Foot in mouth 
again.  Scully looked down.  "I'm sorry, I didn't mean—"

"I know," she said.  He put his hand on hers and she took 
comfort in the figurative and literal warmth it gave.  If she 
could just know the mystery of her conception, it might help 
her to figure out why her baby was so coveted or feared.  
She thought for a long time before she spoke again, finally 
deciding that the more information Doggett had about 
anything related to William, the more he'd possibly be able 
to protect him, at least understand why he was in danger.

Doggett sensed the mood had changed and he had a feeling 
that she was going to tell him something rather profound 
and important.  He waited patiently in silence, not removing 
his hand from on top of hers.  He wanted her to know—to 
feel—that she could tell him anything.

"William's conception is rather a mystery to me.  I'm not 
even sure who the father is," she started hesitantly with her 
eyes lowered.  When Doggett said nothing, she looked up to 
meet his gaze.  It was somber, but non-judgmental and 
compassionate.  It gave her the push she needed to go on.  
"As you know, I thought I was barren, but I had a small 
chance of conception when Mulder presented me with a vile 
of my ova that they had taken from me during my 
abduction.  With Mulder's…contribution…I tried in vitro 
fertilization, but it didn't take."

Doggett was stunned.  Scully and Mulder were not lovers?  
"You and Mulder aren't…"

Scully shook her head.  "Not at that point.  We 
consummated our relationship—once—after the in vitro, but 
not since."

Doggett was even more surprised.  So they did make love, 
but only once?  He was dying to ask why, but knew that was 
none of his business.  That she was telling him this much 
was amazing in itself.  "But either way, Dana, that makes 
Mulder William's father," then another thought occurred to 
him, "unless…"

"No, it's not what you think: there was no one else, but the 
timing was all off.  Mulder and I got together too late for 
William to be his child.  I would have had to conceive 
before that, before the in vitro as well for William to be the 
full term and not over term baby that he was.  And that 
leaves me at a very scary place, because the possibilities are 
terrifying."  She looked at him, worry and fear in her eyes.

Doggett was letting this all sink in, and it was a hard one to 
swallow.  He scooted closer to her and put his arm around 
her in a comforting embrace.  "Whaddya think those 
possibilities are?" he asked very quietly.

Scully sighed.  "I've thought about this for a long time and I 
see two possibilities, both horrendous to me.  One is that 
several weeks before I had the in vitro done, the Cigarette 
Smoking Man took me on this wild goose chase for this 
computer disk and there was one point where I fell asleep—
or was drugged—and found myself in a different outfit.  
Perhaps he implanted the DNA in me."  She shuddered at 
the thought of being touched by that man, and Doggett held 
her tighter to him.  "Or the conception could be somehow 
from this alien chip I have in the back of my neck.  Maybe it 
sent off some kind of signal that somehow impregnated 
me."

"But that would mean that William is—"

"Half alien," she finished for him.

This was all too fantastic for Doggett to believe.  Aliens, 
chips, and mystery conceptions: this sounded like Mulder 
talking.  "Dana, you don't really believe this, do you?"

She was silent for a long time then responded, "I've seen too 
much and experience too much not to believe anymore.  
Believe me, I denied it for years, even in the face of 
personal experiences, but after time, I could no longer deny 
what I had been seeing with my own eyes.  If you had seen 
what I have seen, you would believe too."

He doubted that, but did not doubt that she believed and that 
she was terrified.  "Dana, look at your baby," he paused as 
they both looked at the still-sleeping William, "You can't 
believe he's half alien.  He's perfect.  He has your beautiful 
eyes and your delicate lips.  He even looks like he may have 
Mulder's nose."

Scully let out a little half-laugh.  "God, how I wish he were 
Mulder's, how I wish that could be an undisputed fact!"

"It can be.  Why don't you just run a DNA test?"  He stated 
the obvious.

"I've thought about it many times, but…I'm afraid of the 
results."

His heart went out to her, but he was firm in his words, 
"You can't let fear rule you.  More than likely, the results 
will be a great comfort to you: that Mulder is the father, and 
should he not be, then we'd go from there.  I will not 
abandon you.  And Mulder wouldn't either," he threw in.

"Mulder…where is he now?  I have no clue," she said with 
more anger in her voice than she intended.  "His life is in 
danger, but William's…" she couldn't finish.

She didn't have to, Doggett knew what she was going to say 
and he agreed.  He had often wondered why a man who 
seemed to be in love with her did not stick by her, danger or 
not.  Perhaps since William's paternity was in some dispute, 
he did not feel as large a connection to him or Scully.  
Whatever the reason, Doggett knew that if he were in 
Mulder's shoes, he'd stick by her regardless of whether the 
baby was his or not.  Doggett's love for Scully was so great; 
he would love her no matter what.  He already did.

He gently pushed her from him so he could look into her 
eyes and said, "I want you to know you can count on me.  
I'll be here for you and William as long as you let me, and 
I'll see you through this danger.  You will not be alone in 
this."  

She knew he meant every word of what he said and the look 
in his eyes confirmed it.  "Thank you," she said and gently 
swept the back of her fingers over his cheek.  "I've kept you 
in the dark so much.  I don't deserve your loyalty," she 
whispered.

"You do, and so much more," he said holding her gaze.  He 
took her hand from his cheek and brought it to his lips, 
planting a soft kiss on the back of her fingers.

This man was too good to be true.  She had such a desire to 
kiss him that if she stayed here any longer she knew she 
would.  She looked down and said, "We probably should get 
going."

"Yeah," he said, lowering her hand and reluctantly letting it 
go.

They drove the rest of the way, mostly in silence, except for 
the "conversations" they had with William, who was now 
wide-awake.

It was late afternoon by the time they arrived and, after a 
brief stop at a local grocery store for some food staples, they 
drove up to the cabin.

"Here we are!"  Doggett announced.

"Wow, it's bigger than I imagined!  And the surrounding 
area is just lovely."

"Let's get everythin' unpacked and I'll give you a tour 
around."

"Sounds great."

With William in her arms, Scully stepped into the cabin, 
Doggett right behind her.  He quickly turned off the alarm 
system they used since the cabin was vacant so often.  He 
was glad for the added security it offered.  Should any 
intruders attempt to enter, they would at least have a 
warning.  

The place was large.  It was decorated not rustically as she 
had envisioned, but rather elegantly, with dark furniture and 
beautiful Persian throw rugs atop fine hardwood floors.  
There was a large brick fireplace in the living room that 
took up almost the entire wall and the plush burgundy 
couches all faced toward it.  The place had a rather old-
fashioned feel to it, although the kitchen was completely 
modern with every convenience imaginable.

"You call this a cabin?"  Scully asked astounded, having 
never seen anything quite like it, especially under the name 
"cabin".

Doggett laughed.  "Well, my mom likes to decorate, what 
can I say?  Wait 'till you see the bedrooms."

"Ooo," she said as they walked toward the back of the cabin.  
There were three large bedrooms, each decorated in a 
different color scheme.  The master was done in deep royal 
purples and rich greens, the second in several hues of crisp 
blue and white and the third in elegant ivory with gold 
accents.  "Wow, I'm impressed," she remarked in awe.

"Glad you like it.  How 'bout you take the master bedroom.  
That way you'll have the bathroom attached and you'll have 
more privacy," he suggested.

She was about to protest, but the look he gave her said, 
"don't even try".

After Scully unpacked the few belongings she'd brought, 
nursed William, and freshened up a bit, she joined Doggett 
in the living room.  He had already unpacked the groceries 
and was leafing through a magazine his mother had left 
behind, when she entered.

"William and I are ready for that walk around the grounds if 
you are," she said, the cheer in her voice surprising her.  
Funny how being here with Doggett felt more like a 
vacation and an adventure than a refuge from peril.  
Nevertheless, she was wary of danger and knew she would 
be keeping a watchful eye on the environs, looking for 
anything suspicious.

"Sure am!" he said and they headed out the door.  After 
stopping at her car for William's stroller, they loaded him 
into it and started their walk.

They walked over to the lake that lay not far from the cabin, 
Doggett keeping a vigilant eye on their surroundings.  The 
water reflected the crystal blue sky above and shimmered in 
the slowly fading light.  Dogwood trees in full bloom 
surrounded the lake, casting lazy branches heavy with 
flowers toward the inviting water.  They shown in full glory 
against the paling sky as dragonflies danced up and down.

"Boy, we used to play in this lake for hours," Doggett said, 
reminiscing.  "See that tree over there?" he said, pointing to 
one with a rather large and heavy branch that jutted out over 
the water.  "That one used to have a tire swing on it and 
we'd be on that thing all the time.  Actually, my brother and 
I would fight over who got to be on it."

Scully looked intently at Doggett as he described the 
memories of his past.  His face seemed so animate and full 
of joy.  I felt good seeing him like this, so happy.  As they 
walked, he told her many stories of his childhood and each 
place came alive for her in her mind.  He seemed thrilled to 
share this past part of his life with her and his excitement 
was like that of a young schoolboy.  At one point, while 
showing her one of his secret hiding places, he even grabbed 
her hand in his enthusiasm and even long after, he did not 
let it go.  So by the time they had made the circle back to the 
cabin and the lake, they were still walking hand in hand as 
the sun was just setting.

They stopped in front of the water and watched the sky turn 
from bright pinks and oranges to greys and purples.  

"Thank you for this lovely tour of the area.  I can't tell you 
how much I've enjoyed it," she said, feeling refreshed and 
light-hearted.

"I just hope I didn't bore you with all my childhood 
memories.  I think I went a bit overboard," he said, looking 
at her.

"Not at all.  I love seeing you like this, so happy, carefree, at 
peace.  I've seen a side of you today that I haven't before and 
I like it; I like it a lot."  John Doggett was letting her into his 
world and she was enjoying every minute of it.  Never had 
she felt this comfortable with a man before--that was 
besides Mulder.

"Sharin' it with you makes it all the more special," he said 
softly.  He could hardly believe how good he felt to be here 
with her.  He studied her face in the waning sunlight and 
thought of how exquisitely delicate and beautiful it was.  
His heart beat faster as his eyes soaked up her beauty and, 
without letting go of her hand, he took his other hand and 
gently stroked the perfect porcelain skin of her cheek.  It 
was flushed ever so slightly from the walk and it radiated 
vitality and life.  He wanted to kiss her more than anything 
at that moment and all other thoughts vanished from his 
mind as he slowly leaned in towards her.

Suddenly, William let out a loud laugh, having seen a bird 
fly overhead, disrupting their would-be kiss.  They both 
smiled and Scully turned her attention to the little man in 
the stroller.

"What did you see that was so funny, Sweetie?" she asked 
and gave him little tickles on his belly and under his chubby 
little chin.  He giggled and was all smiles for his mommy.

"Shall we head in?"

"Yes, and this time I'm doing the cooking," Scully said 
firmly.  "I'd like to do my part in contributing around here."

"Aye, aye, Ma'am," he said, giving her a small salute and a 
big grin.  "And I'll entertain the big guy for ya!"

An hour later, dinner was on the table and they ate eagerly, 
the large dose of fresh air having given them a hearty 
appetite.

"I talked with Monica and told her we were here," Doggett 
said.  "Also told her not to tell anyone our whereabouts and 
that she or Skinner should call us the moment they hear 
anythin' related to the threats on William.  She said things 
have calmed down for the time bein', but I don't trust it.  She 
also said Skinner wants us to stay put wherever we are and 
that he'll be contactin' us within a few days, if not earlier."

"I feel safe here, John.  I hope these aren't deceptive 
feelings."

"You are safe.  I'll make sure of it," he said, but had an 
uneasy feeling nevertheless.

After finishing dinner and putting William to bed, Doggett 
set the alarm, securing the perimeter of the cabin.  Then he 
and Scully sat down in front of a roaring fire in the 
fireplace, sipping hot tea.  This would become their nightly 
ritual.  They talked and laughed late into the night, 
thoroughly enjoying each other.
 
Well past midnight they both climbed into their respective 
beds, glowing with the feel of each other's company.  
Doggett was happier than he had been in a long time, 
although he felt guilty for this happiness in the shadow of 
danger.  But this danger, more than any other danger or 
situation they had been through as partners or friends 
before, was bringing them together.  With each passing 
hour, and with the information Scully had given him about 
Mulder and her relationship earlier that day, Doggett felt 
more and more like his love for her might not be unrequited 
after all.  Would she have let him kiss her if William hadn't 
interrupted them?  He thought maybe she would have.  One 
thing was for sure: he was not going to pass up a possible 
happy life together with her; he would let his love for her be 
known when the time was right.  Gun at his side, he fell into 
a blissful sleep.

Hours later he heard moaning coming from Scully's room.  
He bolted out of bed, gun in hand, and was at her door 
within seconds.  Cautiously, he peered in and saw, with the 
aid of the full moon, that Scully and William were indeed 
alone in the room.  She was having a nightmare.  With his 
heart still pounding from the scare, he quietly walked over 
to her bed and sat himself on its edge.  She was rocking 
from side to side, her lips trembling, and a thin layer of 
perspiration cast a sheen on her pale forehead.  She moaned 
again in what sounded like fear and desperation.

"Dana," he whispered, careful not to talk too loudly as to not 
wake up the baby.  "Dana," he repeated, putting his hands 
gently on her upper arms.  At the touch, her eyes flew open 
and stared wildly at him, trying hard to focus.

"It's okay.  You're just havin' a bad dream," he said 
soothingly, stroking her forehead.

The fog seemed to clear from her eyes and she suddenly sat 
upright, looked over at her sleeping baby, then threw her 
arms around Doggett in a tight hug.  Automatically, his 
arms surrounded her and he cooed soothing words into her 
ear.  Her body ceased its trembling and she said softly, "It 
was awful.  They had William and were about to kill him 
and I was so helpless…" she said between sobs, "so 
powerless…."

"Shh, Dana.  You and William are both safe.  I won't let 
anythin' happen to you."  He would protect them at all costs.

She nodded slightly and looked at him with a tear-streaked 
face.  He gently swept away her tears with the pads of his 
thumbs, then kissed her on the forehead.  "Go to sleep.  I'm 
right next door," he said and moved to get off the bed.

"Don't go," she said under her breath.  "Please just stay here 
'till I fall asleep."  She knew she sounded silly, but she 
couldn't shake this fear that had gripped her.  She felt like 
danger could pounce on them at any given moment.

He sat down on the bed and pulled the covers over her as 
she lay back down.  "Alright," he whispered, then watched 
her face change from fear and stress to peaceful serenity as 
sleep once again claimed her.  Several minutes later, he 
silently crept back to his own bed, resisting the intense urge 
to climb into bed next to her and surround her with his body 
in literal, physical protection.  He knew she was scared and 
hated that she had to live in fear like this.

The next few days passed much like the first with no sign of 
danger, but this made Doggett even more wary.  He did not 
want to fall into a false sense of security and he couldn't 
shake this feeling that the danger was catching up to them.  
Scully, too, was sensing some sort of pending doom.  But 
what else she could do, she did not know.  Being in the 
alarm-secured cabin with Doggett, who never left either of 
them out of his sight, seemed the best option, at least for the 
time being.  It was just this waiting for the FBI to find and 
eradicate all the threats that made her feel so crazy and 
powerless.  The problem was it was difficult to know who 
or what the threat was; it came in so many forms.

By now Doggett and Scully had their daily routines down, 
trading off cooking and cleaning, taking a walk around the 
lake, and ending every day in front of a crackling fire.  They 
were becoming closer and closer by the day and they felt 
completely at ease with each other.

One day, during dinner, Doggett got a call from Skinner.  
He informed him that his house had been broken into and 
searched through.  They had apprehended another cult 
member at the scene, one of the few that had not perished 
with the others, that had told them that there would be more 
attempts on William's life soon.  If these threats turned out 
to be real, something they'd be looking into the next couple 
days, Scully should consider letting him issue her and the 
baby a new identity.  This was something that had crossed 
Doggett's mind as well and he told Scully about the call.

Scully knew what a new identity entailed: leaving all her 
family and friends behind and living a completely different 
life for as long as the danger lasted, even if it was 
indefinitely.  She was loath to do it, especially since the 
thought of not seeing Doggett or her mother again was 
horrendous, but she knew that that was what she'd have to 
do for the sake of her baby.  It was just a matter of time 
before they found them here at the cabin.  All her feelings of 
dread were becoming a reality—again—and she knew that 
drastic measures were in order to keep William safe from 
harm.  She felt like they were just waiting for the bomb to 
go off and she wanted to get to safety before it exploded.

Her mood was somber as they sat in front of the fire that 
night.  She stared into the flames, not really seeing them, 
thinking of what it would be like to live without this man 
who was sitting besides her.  In these past several days they 
had become so close; she knew without a doubt that she was 
very much in love with him.

Doggett knew all the thoughts that must have been plaguing 
her mind as she sat there, her gaze transfixed.  He knew, 
because he was feeling them too.  Just the mere thought of 
not seeing her anymore, not knowing where she was or if 
she was safe or happy, not being able to see her eyes light 
up as she looked at her son or hear the laugh that he had 
been hearing much more often in the recent past, that was 
too much to bear.  She was a part of his life now, and he 
didn't want that to change, ever.

He reached his hand out and gathered one of hers in his.  
She looked at him, reading his eyes and knew that he had 
similar feelings at the prospect of her needing a new 
identity.  A profound sadness washed over her and a single 
tear trickled from the corner of her eye.  She didn't even 
know of its existence until she felt the warm, wet path it left 
on her skin.

Doggett positioned himself closer to her on the couch and 
gently cupped her face in his hands.  Tenderly, he kissed the 
lone tear from her cheek and pulled back to look into her 
eyes.  What he saw there took his breath away.  She loved 
him.  He knew it like he knew his name.  Once again his lips 
lowered to her, but this time they covered her lips in a slow, 
lingering, and caressing kiss.  The tip of his tongue found 
hers, causing a titillating sensation and she deftly moved 
herself into his lap, needing to be closer.  He moaned as he 
felt her tantalizing weight on him and she slid her tongue 
completely into his mouth, weaving with his in a rapture of 
desire.  Pressing herself against him, she snaked her hand up 
the nape of his neck and pulled him even closer, further 
deepening the kiss, as his hands ran up and down her back 
in an effort to memorize every arc and bend.  The feelings 
and desires the kiss brought them were so strong, they knew 
if they did not stop now, they would not stop at all.  They 
parted, panting softly, and looked at each other in heady 
intoxication.  Doggett placed a last, soft kiss on her swollen 
lips and they both lay down on the couch together, 
spooning.

They lay like that for a long time, letting their heart rates 
slow, basking in the warmth of each other as the glow of the 
fire covered them like a blanket.  No words were necessary.  
As the mantel clock struck eleven, they silently went to their 
separate bedrooms, pausing briefly for an embrace and a 
tender kiss.  They lay down in their respective beds and 
sleep took them in a whisper.

Hours later, Scully found herself awake with an intense 
yearning for her love.  She got up and checked on her baby, 
who was sleeping soundly, took the baby monitor with her, 
then padded into Doggett's room.  Silently, she slipped into 
his bed and gently draped her arm around his bare chest.  
Without missing a beat, even in his sleep haze, he wrapped 
his arms around her, pulling her closer and they slept in 
utter serenity.

In the early hours of the morning, at the sun's first rays, 
Scully woke to the sound of her baby's soft cooing.  Turning 
off the monitor, she silently slipped out of Doggett's arms 
and went to her son.  Lying with him on her bed, she nursed 
him, thoughts of Doggett and all they had shared last night 
running through her head like a beautiful melody.  She felt 
such love in his arms, through his touch.  The kiss had been 
a romance-novel kiss, one she'd never forget.  Suddenly 
thoughts of a possible new identity pushed into her mind, 
darkening her bliss instantaneously.  She loved Doggett; 
there was no way she wanted to live without him.  But the 
possibility that she would have to loomed over her like the 
grim reaper.  She had to be strong; she was strong, and 
decided to enjoy the time they had left together to the fullest 
and then do what she must.  William was number one and 
she would do anything it took to protect her baby.  She 
knew sleep would no longer come to her now, so she 
finished nursing and took William with her to the kitchen to 
set about making breakfast.

About a half hour later she felt Doggett's presence in the 
room and turned around.  His eyes captured hers and spoke 
of all they shared, the love he felt, and the bittersweet 
feelings within his heart.  She had come to him last night of 
her own accord and that was all he needed to know.  In two 
long strides he was by her side, sweeping her into his arms 
and into a deep, soulful kiss.  The spatula she had in her 
hand dropped to the floor and her arms surrounded him in 
an embrace that said she never wanted to let go.  They 
parted and their gazes caught each other as he whispered, "I 
love you."

Her heart melted and sang and jumped and burst all at once, 
the words from his lips were the most exquisite she'd ever 
heard.  "I love you too," she whispered, her eyes 
overflowing with that love as they met in another passion-
filled kiss.

A burnt smell filled the air, jarring Scully out of her love 
and lust-induced intoxication.  "The eggs!" she exclaimed 
turning from Doggett to the frying pan.  She grabbed the 
spatula from the floor and flipped them over to find them 
completely charred.  They both laughed at the sight.

"I wasn't in the mood for eggs anyway," he said, pulling her 
into yet another kiss then letting her go, looking at her in all 
seriousness.

"Dana, I know you're scared about what awaits you in the 
next few days, but whatever it may be, whatever comes, 
know that we're in this together."

She gave him a small smile as her eyes filled with tears and 
she drew him into a tight hug.  She did not know exactly 
what he meant, but she trusted him, and the comfort that 
brought was incredibly healing.

The day passed quickly and they were enjoying their late 
afternoon walk around the lake when one of the other lake 
patrons came up to them.

"John?  John Doggett?" an old man, who must have been 
well into his seventies, asked uncertainly.

Doggett looked at him and Scully watched his face go from 
suspicion to confusion to recognition.  "Mr. Dobbs?"

"Yes, it's me, boy," he replied and gave Doggett a warm 
hug.  "Great to see you here again after all this time!"

"You too," Doggett said smiling.  Then to Scully he said, 
"This is Mr. Dobbs who ran the barber shop in town were 
Mike and I'd get our hair cut every summer."  

He was about to introduce Scully when Mr. Dobbs said, 
"And this must be your new wife and child."

Doggett was stunned at the assumption.  Scully quickly took 
his hand in hers and gave it a squeeze, trying to convey that 
the mistake did not bother her.  In fact she rather actually 
liked the idea.  But Doggett replied, "No, actually this is my 
fiancée, Dana, and her son, William."  Had he just said 
"fiancée"?  He had meant to say "friend"!  He was 
completely embarrassed!

Scully was shocked at his introduction as well—had that 
been a Freudian slip?  But she smiled brightly and went 
right along with it, extending her hand out to the old man 
who took it firmly.

"Pleased to meet you, Dana," he said, a gleam in his eye.  
"Looks like you're making John here one happy man."  
Scully smiled.

To Doggett he said, "Glad to see you've found yourself 
someone special to start over with.  I'm so sorry about what 
happened to your wife and son."  

Doggett was surprised at their unexpected mention and 
didn't know quite what to say.  "Thanks," was all he could 
think of.

Then looking at Scully, Mr. Dobbs continued, "You know I 
used to cut Luke's hair too.  He was a fine boy, just like his 
father."

"I'm sure he was, Mr. Dobbs," she replied.  She could sense 
that Doggett was getting very uncomfortable, so she said, "It 
was a pleasure to meet you, sir, but we better be going since 
it's almost William's bed time."

"The pleasure was all mine," he said and took her hand, 
kissing the back of it.

Doggett was grateful for the opportunity to cut this reunion 
short.  "Good to see you again.  You take good care of 
yourself," he said.

"You too, John.  And best wishes to you and your bride-to-
be."  The two men hugged, then Scully and Doggett 
continued on their walk. 

When they were well out of earshot Doggett said, "I'm so 
sorry, Dana; I misspoke introducin' you.  I hope I didn't 
embarrass you."

She touched his arm gently and gave him a coy smile, "Not 
at all, John.  I didn't mind."

She didn't?  That small fact made Doggett's heart burst with 
love and happiness.  She didn't mind being called his 
"fiancée"!  He knew that that was something he wanted to 
make real one day.  

She watched an assortment of emotions cross his face before 
he gathered her in his arms and claimed her mouth with his.  
She tasted so sweet, so fresh; her kiss was incredibly 
healing.  The mention of his son and wife had thrown 
Doggett for a loop and it had brought all the pain up to the 
surface again.  Not that he hadn't thought of them since he 
had arrived here, hell, he thought of them almost everyday 
no matter where he was, but he hadn't been prepared to hear 
about them from an outside source.

Scully could feel his pain in his kiss and her heart ached for 
him.  Gently she said, "You're thinking about them, aren't 
you?"

He sighed.  "Yeah.  Even after all these years, it's hard for 
me to talk about 'em.  But I want to with you," he said 
slowly.  "Let's keep walkin'," he said, starting up their pace 
again.  He pushed the stroller with one hand and took her 
hand into his other.

A silence fell around them and Scully was wondering if 
maybe he had changed his mind.  But she did not want to 
prod him; she could imagine how painful talking about it 
must be for him.  

Finally he spoke, his voice cracking slightly.  "Barbara, 
Luke, and I would come here every summer, just like I used 
to with my family.  Oh, did we have great times here, so 
many wonderful memories."  He sighed heavily.  "I can't tell 
you how much I miss those times, how much it hurts to 
know they're gone forever."

Scully was fighting to hold back her tears.  She squeezed his 
hand tightly, trying to pour her love and compassion into it.

"You know, as a parent, that's somethin' you just don't 
expect: to have your child die before you.  It hit both of us 
hard, but it put Barbara in a place that she just couldn't get 
out of.  I tried so hard to help her through those times.  I did 
everythin' I could think of: counselin', givin' her more love 
and attention, talkin' to her about it or not talkin' to her 
about it, but nothin' seemed to help and she pushed me 
further and further away.  And I needed her too!  I needed 
her so much, and she just had nothin' left within her to give 
me."  He paused, talking a deep breath.  "One day, after I 
had gotten home from work, I found her lyin' on the 
bedroom floor with one of my service pistols in her mouth."  
He paused again, intense emotion hindering his speech.

Scully stopped and took him gently into her arms, and he 
grasped her so tightly she almost couldn't breathe.  His body 
shook as he continued in a cracked whisper, "I'll never be 
able to erase that image from my mind."

Scully hurt intensely for him and she knew there just were 
no words that could adequately comfort, but she whispered, 
"I'm so, so sorry, John," anyway.  She stroked his back in an 
attempt to soothe him.  If she could only take the pain away 
from him, but she knew what it was like to lose loved ones, 
and that pain never went away, never completely.

Slowly he released her and looked into her tear-filled eyes.  
They held that deep, healing love and he felt so blessed to 
have her in his life.  He knew he was being given a second 
chance at happiness with this wonderful woman before him 
and he would do whatever it took to keep it.

The tears in his eyes spilled silently down his cheeks and 
Scully kissed them dry.  "I love you, John," she breathed 
and he took her in another needy kiss, desperate for her 
healing touch. 

Lost in their passion, they did not notice the pair of eyes that 
watched their every move.

By the time they parted, the sun had sunk below the horizon 
and she said, "Let's go home."  They walked the rest of the 
way, hand in hand, in silence.

After dinner, Scully nursed William and Doggett read him 
his bedtime story.  With the baby down for the night, Scully 
took her love by the hand and lead him to the living room in 
front of the blazing fire he had built just before dinner.  She 
gave him a passionate kiss then stepped back.  He gazed at 
her longingly and caught the sultry and mischievous twinkle 
in her eyes.  Reaching her hand back, she unzipped her 
simple dress and let it fall to the floor, exposing her ultra 
feminine figure.  It was a bold and sexy, yet vulnerable 
move, but she wanted him to know that she was coming to 
him freely, without reservation, and that he had already 
claimed her heart and soul and now she wanted him, needed 
him, to claim her body as well.

Doggett stood in awe in front of her.  Her move was entirely 
unexpected and the instant desire it sparked was apparent in 
his quickly tightening groin.  She was simply exquisite.  
They way her white lace bra and matching panties hugged 
her voluptuous curves was sheer perfection and excited him 
to the core.  Her skin was like the finest cream silk and gave 
off a warm, enticing glow in the firelight.

"God, you are beautiful," he breathed, his heart pounding at 
warp speed.

She smiled seductively and then said in a deep voice he 
barely recognized, "I think someone's overdressed."  With 
expert agility, she undid his shirt buttons one by one at an 
almost agonizingly slow pace.  Then she slid the cotton garb 
off of his well-defined shoulders and it fell to the floor.  Her 
hands found his chest and touched every muscled hill and 
valley.  The sight of his chiseled physique combined with 
his heady, masculine scent, reminding her of the night she 
had spent wrapped in his sheets, was so incredibly arousing, 
wetness gushed between her thighs, soaking her lace 
panties.  She used every bit of control she had to keep up 
her rather leisurely undressing of the man before her and 
slowly unbuttoned his jeans and slid them deftly over his 
hard thighs, revealing tight, white boxer briefs that were 
barely able to contain his straining cock.  That sight alone 
almost had her fainting on the spot, and she couldn't help 
but release a low, guttural moan.

That sound was the clincher for Doggett and he could 
restrain himself no longer.  In one swift and fluid move he 
pulled her towards him and devoured her mouth with his.  
His hunger was insatiable and he kissed her in a feral, fiery 
frenzy, making her dizzy with lust.  Her body melted into 
his and she could no longer stand by herself, but his strong 
arms kept her pressed up against him as he ravished her, his 
mouth working down from her lips to her neck to the peaks 
of her bosom.  With expert precision he unclasped her bra, 
letting her breasts fall free.  Gently, but quickly, he lowered 
her to the soft rug on the floor and immediately covered a 
breast with his mouth, his hot tongue dancing across her 
sensitive nipple, eliciting a string of soft moans.  He worked 
both breasts evenly as his large hands roamed over the rest 
of her trembling body.  Eventually, his tongue traveled 
lower, leaving a searing, hot, wet trail behind.  Before she 
knew it, he had removed her soaking panties and was at her 
apex, breathing in her delicate scent.  It drove him wild with 
desire and he plunged his tongue between her sopping wet 
folds and into the inferno of her core.  She cried out in 
ecstasy and wrapped her legs around his shoulders as he 
ministered to her every need.  Within moments she was 
climaxing, her body convulsing around him in sheer 
pleasure.  He climbed back up to her face and covered her 
lips with his in a profoundly deep kiss as her body 
reverberated with the aftershocks.  

In another surge of intense desire, she rolled him over so 
that now she was on top.  Quickly she pulled off his 
straining underwear, freeing his almost painfully engorged 
cock.  She was awed at the sheer size of it and her eyes 
completely darkened in passionate desire.  Grabbing it in 
her hand, she lowered her mouth over it, engulfing it 
wholly.  He groaned loudly at the pleasure and almost came 
right then and there.  He needed more than images of dead 
cats and old naked nuns to retain his control.  At first she 
moved her mouth on him excruciatingly slowly, then 
gradually increased the pace, while gently rolling his balls 
in her hand.

"Dana…" he moaned, wanting to tell her that if she didn't 
stop he'd be coming any second, but he didn't have the 
strength to form the words.

But she knew and released him from her mouth, straddled 
him, and impaled herself on him in one fluid motion.  They 
both cried out in pure bliss at the feel, and Scully took a 
moment to let her body accustom to his incredible size, then 
she moved on him, slowly at first then building up to a 
frantic frenzy.  He watched her moving wildly on him, her 
breasts bouncing at the motion, and grabbed her hips, 
directing her angle.  He caught her eyes as he exploded 
within her and at that moment she could see into his very 
soul.  She rode out his climax, coming again shortly 
thereafter, then fell onto his chest, completely spent.  He put 
a lazy arm across her back and the other on her head, urging 
her to look at him.  She did and smiled the most satisfied 
smile he had ever seen.  He returned it and pulled her down 
into another kiss.  Even now he couldn't get enough of her 
and knew he wanted to continue this until the wee hours of 
the morning.

"I love you," he breathed into her.

"I love you too," she whispered.  She couldn't remember 
ever feeling this loved, this content, this satisfied, or this 
happy before.  John Doggett was her own private piece of 
heaven.

She laid on top of him as their heart beats slowed in unison 
until he slid out of her, leaving her yearning for him to be 
back buried deep within her.  She rolled to his side and he 
engulfed her in his arms.   They fell asleep in front of the 
dying embers of what was once a roaring fire.  

About an hour later, they awoke and moved to his bedroom 
where they made love again and again with leisure, leaving 
no inch unexplored. 

By the time they fell asleep again, the sun was just 
beginning to rise and the birds were already singing their 
morning songs.  They slept so soundly that it took a few 
minutes for Scully to realize that that odd sound in her 
dream was, in reality, her baby crying.  Groggily, she 
walked over to her room and picked him up.  He stopped his 
crying immediately and she returned with him to her lover's 
bedroom.  Climbing back in bed, she laid him down next to 
her and nursed him. 

Doggett awoke and watched the scene before him.  He felt 
so privileged and blessed to be able to see and be a part of 
this again.  He had watched his wife nurse Luke countless 
times and each time left him in awe.  To him it was one of 
the most beautiful sights.

She smiled at him and wondered what he was thinking.  She 
had never nursed in front of anyone other than her mother 
before, but with Doggett it just seemed natural, even special.

"Thank you," he whispered.

She looked at him rather confused.  "For what?" she 
whispered back.

"For letting me share this with you.  For sharing yourself 
with me—and I don't just mean your body."

She smiled.  It felt good to finally open up to him, in every 
way.

"You're beautiful," he whispered and leaned toward her, 
kissing her tenderly on the mouth.  "I love you so much."

She smiled again, this time her love for him radiating out of 
every pore.  "I love you, John.  More than I've ever loved 
any man in my life."

He kissed her again, careful not to crush the nursing baby 
between them, as his heart overflowed with love.  He never 
thought he'd be this happy again.

The day passed in a blissful haze as they acted like 
newlyweds on their honeymoon.  They took full advantage 
of every time that William napped by spending it making 
love.  By the time night fell, they had christened almost 
every room in the cabin.

A phone call from Skinner put an abrupt halt to their joy.

"Scully…Dana, I'm afraid I have some bad news," Skinner 
said with sadness and concern in his voice.

Her heart sank at the words.  She knew what he was going 
to say next.

"We have reliable information that the threat against your 
son has increased, in fact so much that I highly recommend 
you and William accept new identities as soon as possible 
until the threat passes.  But I can't tell you how long that'd 
be.  It could be weeks, months, even longer."

Scully listened in silence, feeling heavy and finding it 
difficult to breath.  Doggett saw all her emotions displayed 
clearly on her face and he knew the news was bad.  He took 
her free hand in his and made a decision.  Finally she said, 
"I knew it might come to this.  Please go ahead with the new 
identities for William and me."  Her words were brave, but 
in her heart she was cowering in fear and grief.  Her life as 
she had known it was going to end as soon as Skinner got 
those papers into her hands.

"I'm sorry, Dana.  If there was any other way…but keeping 
you and William safe, that is of the utmost importance.  I'll 
have everything ready for you by tomorrow evening.  I'll 
give you a call in the morning and we can make out a 
meeting place."

Doggett motioned that he wanted to talk to Skinner as well.

"Alright.  Agent Doggett would like to speak to you," she 
said handing him the phone.  What he wanted to add was 
beyond her.

"Sir, I'd like you to issue me a new identity as well, as I will 
join Agent Scully and William," Doggett said firmly.  
Scully looked at him in surprise, her eyebrow arched.  The 
man never failed to amaze her!  Tears welled in her eyes 
and she gazed at him with great love.  He held her gaze 
throughout the phone conversation.

Skinner was surprised as well.  "Do you realize what you'd 
be giving up?"

"Yes, and it's nothin' compared to what I'd be givin' up if I 
were not to go with them."  He paused.  "Sir, we love each 
other and there's no way in hell that she's gonna leave 
without me."

Doggett's declaration of love did not come as a great 
revelation to Skinner.  He had had his suspicions from the 
start.  He was rather surprised that his love was not 
unrequited though.  He thought Scully had something going 
with Mulder, but perhaps it was not the type of relationship 
he had imagined it to be.  He was glad she was in love with 
Doggett.  Doggett was a fine, stable, and dependable man.  
He knew there was no arguing with him and said, "Alright, 
Doggett, I'll get you a new identity as well.  I'll have them 
all ready by tomorrow evening."

"One more thing," Doggett said, "Is it possible you could 
hold out on that, on all of ours, for say about an hour?"

Skinner was confused.  "Why?"

"I'll let you know soon enough."

"Well, you know how urgent this is.  No more than an 
hour," he said firmly and hung up.

Scully watched Doggett as he set the phone down on the 
kitchen counter.  What was that last stuff all about?  Why 
have Skinner wait; he knew how urgent this whole matter 
was?

"Let's sit on the couch," he said, leading her to the living 
room by the hand.  "There's somethin' I wanna talk to you 
about."

They sat down facing each other.  "There's something I'd 
like to say first, if that's alright," Scully said.

"Of course."

"John, I am so touched about you being willing to give up 
your current life to be with William and me and I love you 
for it, but I love you too much to let you make such a 
sacrifice."

Doggett took her hands in his and said in a deep, emotion-
filled voice, "I love you, Dana and the thought of not bein' 
with you, not touchin' you, not makin' love to you for God 
knows how long is unbearable to me.  I've lost before and 
there's no way I'm gonna let you slip away from me, 
unless…unless you'd really rather not have me by your 
side."  He had to throw that in there, had to make sure that 
she did indeed want his love, that he was not forcing it on 
her.

"My God, John, do you have to ask that?  I want you with 
me more than anything!  I guess I'm just in awe that you 
would sacrifice so much to be with me."

"Then it's settled.  I'm goin' with you."

Tears filled her eyes yet again and she smiled through them, 
throwing herself in his arms.  "Thank you.  I love you so 
much!"  They embraced for a bit longer, then Doggett 
pulled back, having an important question to ask her, a very 
important question.

"Dana," she said, looking directly into her eyes and taking a 
hold of her hands again.  He took a deep breath.  "This is 
somethin' I probably wouldn't have asked quite this soon, 
but in the end it really doesn't matter, since I can't imagine 
lovin' you more than I do now.  I love you completely.  
Your strength, your beauty, your laughter, the way you are 
with William, the way you make me feel, even your 
stubbornness and wacky alien beliefs…what I'm sayin' is 
that I love you wholly, every aspect of you, the whole 
package, includin' and especially your precious son, who I 
love just as much as his mother.  I want to love you and 
make you happy every day for the rest of my life."  He 
paused.  "Dana, will you marry me?"

Her lips trembled and tears of joy that had been building 
throughout his heartfelt speech fell from the corners of her 
eyes as she gave him her unwavering answer, "Yes."

An explosion of bliss coursed through every part of his body 
and he pulled her to him, capturing her mouth with his.  He 
kissed her like he never had before, conveying every bit of 
love he had for her in his heart, and offering up to her his 
very soul.  She responded in kind, and where two bodies 
had joined, so had two hearts, and their souls fused as one 
for eternity.

Several minutes later they released each other, both with 
huge smiles on their radiant faces.

"The reason I had Skinner hold off on the identity thing was 
because I wanted to ask him to give the three of us the same 
last name, if that's all right with you."

Scully smiled again and said without hesitation, "Definitely.  
I want us to be a family in every way."

He beamed back at her and said, "Skinner's gonna have 
those new identities ready for us by tomorrow night, which 
doesn't give us much time, but I think we should go to City 
Hall and get married tomorrow, that way the marriage will 
still be in our real names and legal when we can return to 
this life and these names."  He looked at her expectantly.  
He knew this was all so fast and he wished they had more 
time.  She deserved a big church wedding with their families 
and friends in attendance.

Scully was in awe again.  The love this man had for her was 
so obvious.  She smiled at him brightly, "Let's do it!  But 
there's one person I'd love to have there: my mother.  Maybe 
Skinner can bring her with him tomorrow and they can be 
our witnesses."

Doggett jumped up, heading toward the phone.  "Lemme 
give him a call and let him know about everythin'.  I'm sure 
bringin' your mom with him will be no problem.  Then 
we've got some details to plan."  He flashed her a big grin.

As he talked with Skinner, Scully sat on the couch thinking 
about all that had happened in the last hour.  John Doggett 
had taken something that was so frightening, so heart 
wrenching, and so terrible and turned it around into 
something wonderful just like that.  She had been so scared 
of what the future held for her and her child, but now she 
looked forward to it, to a life that was safe and secure, a life 
filled with love, a life with John Doggett.  In the midst of 
terror and turmoil, she had found such happiness.  Funny 
how life worked out that way sometimes.

Doggett cleared everything with Skinner.  Mrs. Scully 
would be allowed to witness the wedding under the 
condition that none of the specifics of the new identity 
information was released to her.  They would meet them at 
4:00 at City Hall.  Doggett called City Hall next and, as luck 
would have it, a justice of the peace was available at 4:00 
tomorrow to do the ceremony.  It was meant to be.

He then called Reyes, telling her of their plans to wed the 
next day and saying goodbye.  She knew that they would be 
living under a new identity.  Only she and Skinner would 
know the details, for it was highly top secret.  She wished 
them well and congratulated them on their upcoming 
wedding.  She had known for a long time that Doggett was 
in love with Scully.  Scully was one lucky woman.

Doggett and Scully were both thrilled over their pending 
nuptials and spent a good part of the night discussing all the 
details of the following day, including the buying of the 
rings.  Then they packed up the few belongings they had in 
preparation of tomorrow's departure.  Around midnight they 
fell into Doggett's bed and spent the next couple hours 
celebrating their love as their bodies writhed, twisted, and 
intertwined in a dance of pleasure.

They were just about to doze off after another bout of 
passionate lovemaking, when the cabin's alarm went off, 
blaring loudly into the dead silence of the night.  
Immediately, they bolted out of bed--both buck naked--with 
Scully running to William and an armed Doggett right 
behind her.  Within seconds Scully had the baby safely in 
one arm and her gun in the other.

"Stay here," Doggett said just loudly enough over the 
ringing alarm, and swiftly moved toward the front of the 
cabin.  Scully wanted desperately to follow him, but knew 
staying put was probably in William's best interest.  She 
grabbed her robe and quickly put it on, gathering the baby 
and the gun right back up.

In the dim light Doggett saw that the window next to the 
front door had been smashed, yet there was no sign of the 
intruder.  Suddenly, he felt an excruciating pain rip through 
his head and he fell to the ground with the perpetrator on his 
back.  He fought to keep consciousness and struggled with 
his assailant in the dark, trying hard to keep the large blade 
that gleamed in the moonlight away from himself.  
Miraculously, his gun was still in his hand and he fired it, 
aiming it at the person on top of him, but at the last second 
his hand was jerked away and the bullet tore into a nearby 
wall.

The sound of the gunshot made it crystal clear to Scully that 
she could no longer stay in the bedroom.  Not knowing how 
many intruders there were, she took William with her, 
feeling that leaving him alone would bring him even more 
danger, and ran out to the front room.  In the dimness she 
could make out two figures struggling desperately.  She 
flicked on the light and shouted, "Hold it right there!" 
pointing her gun at the figures.  The sudden flood of light 
and voice out of nowhere startled the assailant and gave 
Doggett the opportunity to get the upper hand.  He pinned 
the person--who now he could see was a man--down on the 
floor, pried the knife from his hand, flinging it across the 
room, and held the gun to his chest.

"Who are you?!  Whaddaya want?!"  Doggett demanded 
roughly.

The man looked back from Doggett to Scully to William, 
his eyes remaining on the baby.  "He must die," he said 
frantically.

Anger rose in Doggett like water boiling over in a kettle.  
He grabbed the man by the shirt collar and twisted hard, 
cutting his flow of oxygen partially off.  "Why, you 
bastard?!  He's just an innocent baby!"

The man clutched at his own throat, trying to get Doggett to 
loosen his grasp, but Doggett did just the opposite.  "Answer 
me!" he barked.

"If he doesn't then we will all die…all of humanity," the 
man croaked out, barely above a whisper.

His answer was still loud enough for Scully to hear and she 
stormed over to him, William firmly in her arm, and yelled, 
"Why?  What's so special about him?"

At that moment they heard several police cars pull up to the 
front of the cabin.  To Doggett, Scully quickly said, "Take 
William and put on some clothes.  I've got him."  He did as 
she said, emerging only moments later in a pair of jeans and 
nothing else other than the baby securely in his arms.

"Answer me!"  Scully demanded, but the man stared at her 
blankly.  Her anger was at its peak and she shook the man 
violently, shoving her gun under his chin.  "You answer me 
now!"  Once again he stared blankly at her.

Seconds later the police were surrounding them.  "I'm FBI," 
Scully said, putting down her weapon and handing the man 
over to them.  Doggett immediately stood by her side.

"This man broke in here intending to kill my baby," she 
said, trying hard to keep the panic and desperation out of her 
voice.  "I need to find out why."

"We understand, Agent…" one of the officers said.

"Scully," she replied.  "And this is Agent Doggett."

"I'm Officer Bailey and this is Officer Harris.  Your house 
security sent a silent alarm to the station.  Let's all sit over 
here," he said pointing to the direction of the couches, "and 
get a step by step of what went down."

About an hour later they had wrapped up as much as they 
could, with Scully and Doggett telling the police about the 
threats on William and that they were here to get away from 
these threats.  Unfortunately, no matter how hard Doggett, 
Scully or the police tried, they could not get one word out of 
the suspect except, "I won't say a thing without my lawyer."

Skinner was called and informed of the night's events and he 
requested at least two twenty-four hour police guards be 
placed at the front and back of the cabin until their departure 
tomorrow.  Harris and Bailey were happy to comply.  They 
felt for this mother and her child.  Promising to keep them 
abreast of any developing information, they left the cabin, 
the perpetrator shackled in the back of the squad car.  Just 
minutes later two new officers arrived and after announcing 
their presence they got to work guarding the inhabitants of 
the cabin.

"Let me see your head," Scully said with worry, turning 
Doggett around for a better view of his injury.  Gently she 
parted his hair where the blood was drying and saw a small 
cut and a large bump.

"It's fine," Doggett said turning back around.

But Scully was concerned.  "Are you experiencing any 
dizziness or pain anywhere other than at the wound site 
itself?"

"No, Doc.  Really, I'm fine."  Although he could feel that 
the bump was rather large, he barely felt the pain; he was 
too concerned about what had just taken place and was 
worried more about her than himself.

She let it go for now, but promised to keep a watchful eye 
on him.

By now William was fast asleep again and Scully laid him 
on the couch, kneeling besides him and gazing at his little 
angelic face.

Doggett knelt down on the floor next to her and put his arm 
around her.  "What is it about my son that so many people 
want to kill him?"  She whispered, attempting to keep her 
voice even.  "I don't understand.  I've got to know!"

"We'll get some answers from that man.  If the cops can't get 
through to him, then Skinner will."

"You're right, Skinner will get it out of him," she said, 
trying to be strong and positive, but not really believing it 
herself.

Doggett heard the edge in her voice and knew that she was 
at her limit.  He gathered her in his arms and she let the tears 
flow unhindered onto his bare shoulder.  It felt so good not 
to always have to be strong in front of him, to be able to let 
her guard down and just be, be whatever she was feeling at 
that moment.  There was no one else she allowed herself to 
do that with, not even Mulder.

He stroked her back gently, trying to take all the pain and 
fear she felt into himself.  Soon her tears stopped and she 
looked at him, her vibrant blue eyes shining with 
gratefulness and love.  "Thank you for always being here for 
me.  Thank you for just letting me be and being strong for 
me when I am not," she whispered.

He looked at her with deep love in his eyes and smoothed 
away her tears with the pads of his thumbs.  "But you are 
strong, Dana.  You're the strongest woman I've ever met."

She gave him a little smile.

"By tomorrow night, the three of us will be completely safe.  
We'll start a new life together, free from this nightmare 
you're livin'.  I promise you, we're gonna have a happy life."

This time she gave him a huge smile.  "As long as you are 
with William and me, I will always be happy."

"As will I."  He planted a tender kiss on her flushed lips.

She gathered up her baby and the three of them settled 
together in one bed, William securely between them, 
knowing that the guards were doing their duty and keeping 
them safe.

Their last morning as Dana Scully and John Doggett arrived 
and, after nursing William, Scully headed for the shower.  It 
was not five minutes later that she felt strong arms wrap 
around her waist and a hot mouth sucking from her neck to 
her shoulder.  Her knees weakened instantaneously and she 
whispered without turning around, "Isn't it bad luck for the 
bride and groom-to-be to be engaging in such activity on the 
day of their wedding?"

Feeling the arousing pressure of his already-hard cock 
pressed against her derrière, she knew what his answer 
would be.  "That's an old wives tale," he said between 
kisses, sucks, and licks on her neck.

"Umm…" was all she could say as his large hands moved 
up to cup her breasts.  

She laid her head back onto his firm chest and gave in to the 
pleasure.  He kissed her upward-tilted mouth and she turned 
around in his arms, never breaking the kiss.  The water 
sprayed warmly over their bodies as they kissed 
passionately, their hands gliding over each other, caressing 
every curve and plane.  She pulled back, needing to look at 
what her fingers were feeling and the sight of his hard, 
muscular, slick body standing so aroused before her 
suddenly made her feel like she had to have him inside her 
that very second.  The primitive, urgent need was 
overwhelming and she moaned as she grabbed his steel 
member, raised a leg, which she quickly wrapped around 
him, and placed him right at her steaming entrance.  He saw 
her intense desire and lifted her small body so both her legs 
could wrap around his waist and he easily pushed into her 
awaiting wet core.  Together they moaned at the glorious 
sensation, then started their gentle pumping rhythm that lead 
to an increased pounding as they both soared to their 
climactic peaks.  Falling over the edge together, they broke 
new records in pleasure, desiring each other so intensely as 
if it were their first time.  They clung to one another, the 
water still running down their spent bodies as their heart 
rates slowly returned to normal.  He eased her down and she 
leaned against him, her legs like that of a newborn fawn.  
She raised her head and brought his head down to hers in a 
concluding kiss, tender and full of love.

"I love you," she breathed, as she gazed at him with drunken 
eyes.

He smiled at his lover gently.  "I love you," and kissed her 
again.

About an hour later they were both dressed and ready to go 
out.  They greeted the guards, loaded William in the car, and 
headed to the local jewelry store.  Doggett had felt a bit odd 
proposing to Scully without an engagement ring in hand.  It 
was something he never would have done under normal 
circumstances.  He was a rather traditional man and was 
glad that they were taking the first opportunity to remedy 
the situation, especially since this would be an incredibly 
short engagement.  Any bit of happiness and security he 
could bestow on her would be a blessing in the wake of last 
night's nightmare.

He delighted seeing Scully's eyes light up as the salesman 
put a tray of diamond solitaire rings, ranging from one to 
two carats, in front of her.  He had made it clear to her that 
she could have any one she desired.  It was his first chance 
to spoil her and doing so with a ring that signified his love 
and their everlasting union was the perfect way in his eyes.  
After trying on many of the rings, she chose one that was 
his particular favorite as well: a brilliant, round, one-and-a-
half-carat diamond in a high Tiffany setting, set in platinum.  
For the wedding band she chose a platinum band that 
surrounded the engagement band's diamond with two 
smaller diamonds framing each side.  The rings together 
were exquisite and Doggett's heart leapt when he saw the 
joy in her face.

For himself he chose a simple platinum band without 
diamonds.  He just wasn't the diamond-wearing type of guy.  
Too flashy, he thought.

After they made their purchases, putting each ring in a 
separate black velvet box, they left the store in high spirits.  
Doggett drove them to a secluded and incredibly scenic 
spot.  Amidst a plethora of wild flowers he went down on 
bent knee and proposed to her again, this time slipping the 
diamond ring on her finger at her "yes".  They spent another 
quarter hour kissing, until Doggett took her by the hand and 
lead her and William back to the car.  There was another 
place he wanted to stop before they had to head back to the 
cabin and pack their belongings into the car.

He drove her to a small boutique and told her to pick out a 
dress to wear for their wedding.  Her face shined at the idea, 
for she had nothing with her that was special in the least.  
She found something perfect for the occasion almost right 
away and kept the purchase hidden from him.  She wanted 
to have the opportunity to make herself look extra special 
before revealing it to him.  Their wedding day was going to 
be far from traditional, but she still wanted to look the best 
she could for him.

They headed back to the cabin and while Doggett loaded the 
car with all their belongings and a cooler stuffed with food, 
Scully busied herself putting on make-up and doing her hair.  
She was nervous, giddy, and excited all in one.  Although 
being a bride was a large part of that, so was the reality that 
they were going to be starting a completely new life with 
new identities.  But living without the fear and threat of 
constant danger was something she was greatly looking 
forward to.  The stress and worry she had endured since 
William was conceived was taking its toll on her.  If it 
hadn't been for Doggett, she surely would have lost her 
sanity by now.

 Scully slipped on her new dress and appraised herself in the 
mirror.  "What do you think, Will?" she asked the little man 
sitting in the corner of the room on a blanket.  He replied 
with giggles and gurgles and a big smile.  "Why thank you, 
Sweetie," she said, smiling back at her son.

Taking another look at her image, she was indeed pleased.  
The sparkle of her diamond engagement ring in the mirror 
caught her eye and she glanced down at it.  It truly was an 
exquisite piece and looking at it, knowing what it 
symbolized, made her feel so incredibly loved.  She couldn't 
believe what luck she had ending up with a man as 
wonderful as John Doggett.  He was sensitive to her needs 
without making her feel dependent or inferior.  He was 
loving--not to mention incredibly good in bed--without 
making her feel smothered.  He treated her with respect--
had from the very start--and like a woman, and loved her 
son, paternity unclear and all.  He was strong and loyal, and 
she trusted him completely.  He was straightforward and 
traditional, yet full of surprises.  He excited her in every 
way and the prospect of sharing a lifetime with him was a 
dream becoming reality.  She felt blessed and said a little 
prayer before picking up William and leaving the bedroom.

Doggett was just walking from the kitchen to the living 
room when he heard footsteps behind him.  He turned 
around to find Scully with the baby on her hip before him.  
She was drop-dead gorgeous and his mouth fell open at the 
sight.  Her radiant beauty rendered him literally speechless 
as his eyes drank in the heavenly image.  She was wearing a 
mid-calf length ivory sheath dress whose outer layer was all 
in heavy, quality lace.  The neckline revealed just the 
uppermost swells of her breasts and the cap sleeves showed 
off her perfect, creamy skin.  The dress hugged her every 
curve with the utmost flattery.  Strappy high-heeled ivory 
sandals and a strand of pearls and matching stud earrings 
completed the lovely picture.  She absolutely glowed.

She could see he was definitely pleased and watched with 
amusement as his lips moved, trying hard to form words.  
To see him so spellbound made her feel like the most 
beautiful woman in the world.  And at that moment she was.

He finally found his voice and breathed, "You're the most 
beautiful woman I've ever seen.  I can't believe that I'm the 
lucky man who gets to have you for his wife!"  In three 
short strides he was at her side, and he wrapped her and the 
baby in his arms, kissing her with a fiery passion that sent 
tingles directly to her groin.

It was several minutes before they parted and he said, "Shall 
we?" extending his arm.  She took it and they left the cabin, 
looking back a final time at the place where their love had 
blossomed into full bloom.

Soon they arrived at City Hall, anticipation and excitement 
in their hearts.  Scully spotted her mother and Skinner at the 
front door.  She was surprised, but pleased to see Reyes 
with them as well.  She pointed them out and Doggett 
parked.  He took William out of the car seat and they 
walked together to the awaiting threesome.

"Mom," Scully said, tears in her eyes, as she threw herself 
into her mother's arms in a tight hug.

"Oh, Dana," she said simply, thrilled to see her and William 
unharmed.  There was so much she wanted to say, but didn't 
know where to start.  It was a bittersweet moment.  "Honey, 
I am so happy that you found love with John.  He is a fine 
man and I know he will always be there for you."

"Thanks, Mom," she said, wiping at her tears.  She knew 
this was as tough for her mom as it was for her.

"I don't want you to worry about anything.  Treat this new 
identity thing as an extended vacation.  Enjoy your baby and 
new husband without fear and danger hanging over you.  
Everything will be here when you return.  We'll have a big 
church wedding/welcome home celebration for you when all 
this has passed."

Tears were rolling down Scully's face again.  "I love you, 
Mom," she said.

"I love you too," she replied.  "Now no more crying.  We 
can't have the bride with red, puffy eyes."

Scully laughed and wiped away her tears.  Doggett, Skinner, 
and Reyes joined them, having talked through some of the 
paperwork Skinner had brought.

Mrs. Scully gave Doggett and William a warm hug.  "I 
know you will make my daughter happy.  You are a good 
man and I wish you all the best," she said to him sincerely.

"Thank you, Mrs. Scully.  I will do everything in my power 
to keep your daughter happy.  I love her with all my heart."

She smiled brightly, pleased to hear of his love for her, and 
one look into his intense blue eyes confirmed what his lips 
had just spoken.  "I know you do," she said, then added, 
"Please call me Margaret."

He smiled.  "Shall we go in, Margaret?" he asked, extending 
his arm.

"Yes, but I insist on holding my grandson.  I've missed him 
so much."

"Of course," he said, handing her the baby.

He looked over at Scully who was talking with Skinner and 
Reyes and motioned with his eyes that they should head in.

Several minutes later they were standing in front of the 
justice of the peace.

"Do you, John Doggett, take this woman, Dana Scully, to be 
your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, to love and 
to cherish, for richer for poorer, in sickness and health, and 
forsaking all others, being faithful only to her, from this day 
forward, until death do you part?"

"I do."

"Do you, Dana Scully, take this man, John Doggett, to be 
your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, to love 
and to cherish, for richer for poorer, in sickness and health, 
and forsaking all others, being faithful only to him, from 
this day forward, until death do you part?"

"I do."

"Now you may either repeat your vows after me to each 
other, or say your own," the minister instructed.

Doggett and Scully looked at each other and, although they 
had not discussed it before, they both knew and said in 
unison, "We'll say our own."

The minister nodded to them both, then nodded to Doggett 
to begin.

Doggett took Scully's hands in his and looked deeply into 
her eyes as he said, "I, John, take you, Dana, as my wife.  I 
promise to love, honor, and cherish you.  I promise to 
always be by your side through thick and thin and promise 
to keep you and William safe and put you two above all 
else.  I'll be the person you can always count on.  I'll be the 
person to comfort you, to cry with you, to laugh with you.  I 
promise you my fidelity and my undyin' love.  My love for 
you is deeper and truer than any words could ever convey."

Scully's heart soared at his emotional words and she knew 
he would keep every promise he made.  With tear-filled 
eyes she spoke her vows to him.  "I, Dana, take you, John, 
to be my husband.  I promise to love you forever in good 
times and bad.  I will be faithful to you always in body and 
in mind, and honor and respect you.  I will care for you and 
look out for you, comfort you and be there for you.  I 
cherish your love and will treasure it always.  You have my 
heart and I have given it to you freely and willingly and now 
you have the rest of me.  I promise to love you all the days 
of my life."

A tear streaked down Doggett's cheek and he squeezed her 
hands in his.  He felt so loved, something he never thought 
he'd be blessed with in his life again.

The minister presented the rings to them and said to them 
both, "As you place the rings on each other's fingers say, 
'With this ring I thee wed'."

Doggett took the wedding band from the minister and 
slipped it halfway onto Scully's trembling finger.  "With this 
ring I thee wed," he said, looking into her teary blue eyes, as 
he pushed the ring all the way on.

Scully then did the same.  "With this ring I thee wed," she 
whispered in an emotion-choked voice and slid the ring on 
Doggett's finger.

"By the power vested in me by the state of Virginia, I now 
pronounce you husband and wife.  You may kiss your 
bride."

The minister had barely finished his sentence as Doggett 
swept Scully into a passionate, soul-baring kiss.

When they parted, the minister said, "May I present to you 
Mr. and Mrs. John Doggett."

They turned around with glowing smiles on their faces that 
matched the smiles on Reyes, Skinner, and Mrs. Scully.

After several hugs and congratulations, they all signed the 
marriage certificate and left the building.

They stood in the parking lot all knowing that this was 
goodbye.  For how long, none of them knew.  Mrs. Scully 
clutched William to her, kissing his tiny face and 
whispering her love to him.  By the time she handed him to 
her daughter, tears had streaked her face.  

"Mom…" Scully breathed, her heart heavy.

"Everything's going to work out just fine," she said, trying 
hard to be strong for her daughter.  She knew her burden 
was so much greater.  She was just so thankful that she had 
a man like Doggett to go through it with.  "I love you and 
look forward to your return.  You go make yourself a 
wonderful life with your new husband and baby."

"Thanks, Mom," she said barely able to speak through her 
own tears.  "I love you."

They parted and Scully looked at Skinner.  He had concern 
and love in his eyes and surrounded her with his large arms 
in a tight hug.  "You and William are going to be safe now.  
I'll call you as soon as you can return.  Good luck."

"Thank you.  Thank you for everything."  She returned his 
hug easily.

She then turned to Reyes.  "John loves you so much, Dana.  
I am so glad that he found such happiness with you.  You 
couldn't have found yourself a better man."

She smiled, knowing that Reyes had feelings for him that 
went deeper than friendship.  "I know.  I'm very lucky."  
They hugged tightly.  They would miss their developing 
friendship, but they knew that they'd continue from where 
they left off the moment they could return.

"I promise to take excellent care of your daughter and 
grandchild, Margaret," Doggett said as he embraced her.  "I 
won't let any harm come to 'em."

"I know you will protect them.  I trust you, John, and I look 
forward to seeing you all as soon as possible.  Enjoy your 
new life and your marriage.  You have each other and that is 
what is most important."

He nodded and smiled at her, then turned to Reyes.  She had 
tears in her eyes and, although she had so much to say to 
him, she could not get the words out.  He noticed her deep 
emotion and gathered her into his arms in a loving embrace.  
"I'll miss you, Monica," he whispered in her ear.  "You've 
been a great and loyal friend to me."

They parted and he watched as a tear rolled down her cheek.  
"I'll be back," he said, brushing it away with his fingers.

"I know," she said, giving him a smile.  "I wish you and 
Dana the best.  I'm so happy that you found love again, 
John.  You deserve it."  She forced back the fresh tears that 
threatened to fall.

"As do you," he said tenderly.  Had he not met Scully, who 
knows what their future might have been.  "I'll see you 
soon."  They embraced one last time, then he handed her a 
letter he had written to his parents, explaining that he had to 
go away for a while and telling them about Scully and their 
marriage.  

He then opened the car doors for his new family and they 
climbed in.  Moments later they were waving goodbye 
through tear-filled eyes.  Doggett took Scully's hand in his.  
"Everythin's gonna be okay; I promise you."

She smiled at him.  "I know.  With you by my side, 
everything already is okay.  Besides," she said, looking at 
the file in her hand, "how bad can California be?"

He smiled as he turned the car west.  "It's gonna be good."

She knew he was right.  Their future as a family awaited 
them across the nation: a new life, a new identity, with one 
unwavering constant: their undying love.  Love would see 
them through anything, it already had.


THE END


I hope you enjoyed this little piece of fluff.  All my fan 
fiction (DSR as well as MSR) can be found at my website, 
The Fox and Hound, at: www.thefoxandhoundx-files.com