*****Pretend Part 1***** TIME SPAN - Third Season, no spoilers DISCLAIMER - The characters of Fox Sculder and Dana Mully are owned and operated by Ten Thirteen Productions and Chris Carter. No copyright infringement intended. TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK - by writing to me at mksr79@aol.com. Please? Be your best friend. DEDICATION - It's high time I dedicated something to my mom, who gave me life and raised me to become a well-mannered young lady. Thank you, Mom. * * * * * **Pretend (1/?)** MaryKathryn S. Robinson mksr79@aol.com J. Edgar Hoover building Basement 8:22 a.m. "Scully, take a look at this." Mulder summoned his partner to the computer. "A thirty-five year old American female was found brutally murdered. This is the fourth American killed in a month." She looked at the case files brought up on the screen. "How do we know they're connected, Mulder? It says here one girl was strangled, another stabbed, and the other two shot." Her question was met by a grim smile. "Because the killer leaves a calling card - a guardian angel pin left on the victim's clothing." "Why do you think he does it, Dr. Mulder?" "Well, it could be a sign of his own greatness, that he sees himself as God. Either that, or he works at Accessory Place." She smiled, but was still perplexed. "Why are we interested in the case, Mulder? Isn't this Scotland Yard's territory?" "The American Embassy asked for the F.B.I.'s help. Karen Jenkins, the last victim, was the executive assistant for the ambassador." A look of understanding crossed Scully's face. "When do we leave?" "American Airlines Flight number 1030 at 7:31 tonight. Have you ever been to England, Scully?" "No, why?" "I just wanted to warn you to bring some sweaters, a raincoat, and an umbrella. Believe me, you're going to need it." * * * * * 9 p.m. est Scully sat back in her reclining chair and sighed. The Mary Higgins Clark book she brought was bland, and she was unable to get the new Kevin J. Anderson novel, _Ground Zero_, from the bookstore. She glanced over at her partner, snoozing peacefully. Actually, she was glad he was getting the rest. His nightmares kept coming, and so did the late night phone calls to her apartment. He opened one eye. "Enjoying the view?" "Most definitely." He sat up. "So what's England like, Mulder? How long did you live there?" "Three years, while I got my bachelor and masters degrees at Oxford." There was a great sadness in his voice. "What's the matter Mulder?" "Nothing." The question dragged Mulder out of his his funk, and he began to describe the merits and values of London. Knowing he was not ready to tell her what was bothering him, she listened to his commentary in silence. * * * * * 9 am "Okay, Mulder. What next?" Scully asked as she stepped off the jet liner. It had been a long night, and they had spent most of it talking. Mulder was talkative about London, but not his time spent in England. "We go, rent a car, and drive to the hotel. I don't know about you, but I could use some sleep." "Agreed." Scully shifted her luggage to her other shoulder. "What about Scotland Yard?" "We have an appointment tomorrow with an Inspector Gouldstone tomorrow at nine a.m. Right now we can-" "Mr. Mulder? Dr. Scully?" "Yes?" The blonde Englishman held out his hand. "My name is James Squire. I'm an inspector for Scotland Yard." He took out his badge and showed it to the agents. "I know your appointment isn't until tomorrow, but there's been another murder." "Where?" "An area in the countryside. I know you must be tired, but if you could come with me..." * * * * * 10:36 a.m. "Agents Scully, Mulder, welcome. I'm sorry that we had to pull you from your rest, but we thought you would like to be involved. My name is Paul Gouldstone." Mulder assessed the man as they shook hands. Late thirties, brown hair, brown eyes, strong features. Scully was already investigating the crime sight as Gouldstone began talking. "The victim's name is Christine Edwards. She was visiting relatives in the nearby town of Lalland when she disappeared two days ago. She was found this morning." Scully pulled on her rubber gloves and bent down towards the body. "Pupils dilated, scratches on her face and forearm. Looks as if Ms. Edwards was surprised." "What else, Scully?" She stood up. "I can't really say until I perform the autopsy. It looks as if she put up a fight. I recommend checking under the fingernails for hair and skin." Mulder added his two cents. "And make sure that forensics goes through her possessions and clothes with a fine tooth comb. Where was the pin found?" The inspector finally spoke. "On her sweatshirt's collar." "Okay." The wheels were turning in Mulder's head. "We're going to return to the hotel and get some sleep. We'll see you tomorrow morning." Mulder escorted Scully to the rental car, leaving Inspector Gouldstone to stare after the two agents. "And they say Americans aren't efficient," he said, shaking his head. * * * * * The Royale 11:58 a.m. "Thank God!" Walking through the suite's living room, Mulder opened the door to his bedroom. He threw his bag on the ground and collapsed onto the queen-size bed. A head poked in through the door. "Are you okay Mulder?" "Just tired. Aren't you?" A yawn escaped her lips. "Yeah. What do you think about the case?" He rolled over to look at her. "I don't know. We'll just have to see when we speak to Gouldstone in the morning." Scully's eyelids began closing. "I'll perform the autopsy tomorrow." She yawned again. "Mulder, move over. I'm too tired to go back to my room." Within minutes the two were sound asleep. * * * * * 5:11 p.m. Fox Mulder dimly heard the sound at the door through his jet-lagged sleep. He slowly awakened, finding an incessant knocker and a Dana Scully sleeping peacefully at his side. Taking careful consideration not to wake his partner Mulder made his way to door. "Hello Mulder. Did I wake you?" "What are you doing here, Phoebe?" She smiled. "I wanted to welcome you back to London and ask you out to dinner. Talk about old times." "I already have plans, thank you." She pursed her pouty red lips and moved closer to him. "Are you sure, Mulder? I'm sure we could have a REALLY good time-" "Who was at the door, Mulder?" Scully exited the bedroom disheveled and yawning. Mulder made his way over to his partner and put his arm around her waist. "I'm glad you're up, Dana. I was just about to tell Phoebe about us." Scully stared at him in shock, but his eyes pleaded with her to go along with his plan. "You see, Phoebe, Dana and I are engaged to be married." "Congratulations. Where's your ring, Agent Scully?" "The F.B.I. frowns upon fraternization between agents, and a ring would cause suspicion." "I'm sorry if I intruded on your property, Scully. Please let me make it up by taking you both out to dinner tonight. I insist." Before she could respond Mulder jumped in. "We'd love to. How about we meet at eight o'clock in the lobby? Sounds good?" She nodded. "See you then." Scully waited for Phoebe to leave the room before she began her tirade. "What the hell was that, Mulder?" He opened his mouth to speak but Dana continued. "I wake up to find myself engaged. Did something happen while I was sleeping?" "Phoebe came here, pressuring me to have dinner with her, and she wouldn't take no for an answer. Your entrance provided the perfect excuse." "Then why did you accept her invitation to dinner tonight?" He looked at her sheepishly. "I just wanted to show her how happy we are so she'll leave me alone." Scully remember Phoebe's last visit to the United States. It had almost unraveled Mulder, who obviously shared a painful past with the witch. "Before I go through with this I need to know something." At Mulder's nod she went on. "What happened between you and Phoebe?" "I guess you deserve to know." Mulder sat down on the bed, head in hands. "Phoebe and I started going out my sophomore year at Oxford. We were the model couple, or so I thought. Our senior year I asked her to marry me. Instead of saying yes she threw the ring at me and asked why she would marry a nothing like me. She went on to tell me that she was using our relationship as a cover while she carried on an affair with a married man." Scully's sympathies went out to the the younger Mulder whose heart was broken by a lying wench. "I'm sorry Mulder." She turned her attention to the foremost problem, knowing that Mulder would not appreciate her feeling sorry for him. "Do you think this will work?" "I hope so. Does this mean you will do it?" He turned towards her, hope blazing in his eyes. "Yes." She looked at her watch. Five thirty-seven. "I have some shopping to do. Meet you at 7:45 in my room?" Impulsively Mulder reached out and gave his partner a hug. "Thanks Scully. Whatever you need, you got it." She exited the hotel and hailed a cab. The only thing she needed was to see Phoebe Green fall a few notches, and she was just the person to do it. * * * * * 7:43 p.m. Mulder knocked on his partner's door. The nervousness flowed over him like a waterfall. Scully opened the door. "You look gorgeous." "Thank you." Scully had returned to the room with a brand new outfit. The loose navy blue dress was sprinkled liberally with cream and hunter green flowers. Her hair had been curled and left loose around her face, while the make-up was understated to accent her bright blue eyes. Mulder finally tore his eyes away from his partner and helped her step into her raincoat. "Are you sure you want to do this, Scully?" "Damn straight." She took his arm and led him out of the room. * * * * * ===================================================================== ====== From: mksr79@aol.com (MKSR79) Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: REPOST - PRETEND (2/6) Date: 12 Dec 1995 14:48:14 -0500 *****Pretend (2/?)***** TIME SPAN - THIRD SEASON, NO SPOILERS DISCLAIMER - Fox Mulder and Dana Scully are owned by Chris Carter and Ten Thirteen Productions. No copyright infringement intended. LET'S BE FRIENDS!!! - Write me at robinson@htp.net. I love any and all comments on my stories. DEDICATION - To Vickie M., who rewrote almost the entire dinner scene for me. Isn't that part great? Thanks. SUMMARY - Mulder and Scully travel to London to catch a serial killer murdering American women and leaving behind a guardian angel pin. At the same time, they run into Phoebe. In order to save Mulder from the wrath of Phoebe, Scully agrees to pose as Mulder's fiancee. * * * * * **Pretend (2/?)** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net "There she is." Mulder pointed Phoebe out to Scully as the two made their way across the lobby. "Mulder! You're looking smashing." "Thank you, Phoebe." Mulder put his hand in Scully's and started out the door. "Where are we going?" She took his other hand and smiled up at him. "Our place from college. Sarah's." "Yes. Fox told me about your history." Dana got some satisfaction as Greene registered the use of the first name and her knowledge of their past. "I'm really glad you and Fox broke up, Phoebe. Otherwise we never would have met." She looked up at Mulder, smiling at his amusement. She made her way to the taxi, leaving Phoebe behind. * * * * * 8:00 pm Dinner in Europe was a much longer affair than in the States. There were first wines to choose, several courses of food. Sarah's was a restaurant that was probably reserved for the upper classes, Dana surmised as she glanced around the room at the expensive gowns and tailored suits. Here and there were scattered couples in formal evening attire, on their way to the opera, no doubt. Phoebe had her eyes on Mulder from the moment they sat down. "Well, you certainly seem contend, I must say," she purred at him. "But then, you were always such a homebody. I suppose you two have moved in together by now, haven't you?" She eyed Dana for a minute, waiting for a reaction, then turned to Mulder again. "Bet she has you taking out the garbage and dusting and all those house husband duties." Dana reached over and took Mulder's hand, kissing the palm and then each finger in slow seduction. "He's chores are pretty limited, Phoebe. Limited to one room, limited to one person," she let her lids drop just a fraction and the look in her eyes made Mulder catch his breath. "Really? But I can remember your talents were never limited, Mulder," Phoebe retorted, rubbing his leg with a spiked heel under the table. "I seem to remember some particularly interesting moments in the kitchen, on the divan," she dropped her voice an octave, "the bath. . ." Mulder was beginning to understand the meaning of the words 'sexual harassment'. He self consciously check his shirt to make sure he was still wearing clothes. he decided. "We don't seem to required 'outside stimulus' as much as you and I did, Phoebe." He had the satisfaction of hearing Dana's suppressed giggle and seeing Phoebe's eyes flash. 9:24 p.m. "So, where did you study, Dana?" Phoebe posed the question casually, but was waiting intently for her answer. "I attended the University of Maryland for my undergraduate work." "Oh really?" Greene pounced on the information like a cat on a mouse. "I've never heard of it. I guess it isn't known internationally." She didn't say it, but the words "not like Oxford" rang in the air. "But you didn't let me finish, Phoebe." Scully smiled condescendingly. "I attended medical school at Harvard and obtained my masters thesis at Georgetown." "Oh." Momentarily gotten the better of, Greene downed her red wine. Thinking quickly, she thought of a snappy response. "I imagine that it must be hard to pay for educations coming from a middle class background." Scully could see Mulder seething from the corner of her eye. She quickly squeezed his hand, letting him know she could handle the wrath of Phoebe. "Actually, I had full scholarships to all of the above. Daddy's rank as Captain didn't allow us much money to handle all four kids, but we were happy." Bested once again, Phoebe hid herself behind the menu. "let's decide what we are going to have for dinner. The chicken kiev looks delicious. What do you think?" Mulder and Scully looked up from the menu they were sharing. "Would you like to share the chateau brignon, Dana?" "Dana, do you think you should? It's pretty...fattening." Instead of crumbling, she kept the sublime look upon her face. "It's okay, Phoebe. I jog six miles a day and belong to a gym. Don't you exercise?" "Well..." Phoebe continued her barricade of barbs and traps. The two partners looked at one another, knowing what the other was thinking. * * * * * 10:49 p.m. They had made their way to dessert and coffee. Throughout the meal Phoebe had tried to block Scully from the conversation, but to no avail. She countered by sharing secret looks with Mulder, and stories of their time with the X-Files. "So, Scully, when did you and Mulder admit your love for one another?" Scully stared at Mulder, stroking his face. "I have been in love with Mulder since the first day I have met him. I couldn't admit my feelings for him, for fear that it would ruin our friendship. Then the x-files division was shut down and we were separated. I went home that night to find Mulder sitting on my doorstep. He told me that he loved me and couldn't live without me. We've been together ever since." She kissed him softly, lingeringly. Phoebe was nonplused. "And when will the wedding take place?" The partners looked at one another. Mulder's eyes seemed to plead. Taking Dana's hand in his, Mulder looked at Phoebe. "We've reserved the church for March 31. We'd love it if you could make it. It would mean a lot to us." "Maybe I will." The threat did not upset the two agents. They sat there, touching one another, as Phoebe watched from her lonely chair on the other side of the table. * * * * * 11:19 p.m. "Can you believe it, Mulder?" Scully's eyes were shining, alive with the knowledge that they had finally gotten rid of Phoebe Greene from their lives. "The witch fell for it!" He entered the room behind her and twirled her around in a big bear hug. "We did it!" He set her down and looked into her eyes. "YOU did it, Scully. I mean, the looks, the touches, the kiss... I almost believed it." An uncomfortable silence followed. Scully stepped out of Mulder's arms and looked at the ground. "It was nothing." "We better get some sleep. The meeting with Gouldstone is at nine." "And I have to perform the autopsy at seven thirty." Scully walked over to the adjoining door, with Mulder close behind. "Good night Mulder." "Thank you again Scully. It meant a lot to me." Their faces were dangerously close. Pushing the thought aside, Scully entered the room and closed the door. * * * * * 8:27 a.m. "The victim's name is Christine Ann Edwards, a twenty eight year old computer programmer from Boston, Massachusetts. Time of death is approximated to be around thirty six hours ago." Scully continued to speak into the microscope on the ceiling as she examined the corpse. "Pupils dilated. There is a scratch 10 centimeters in diameter across her left cheek, with similar markings on arms and neck. The cuts were probably made with a fingernail. No skin or hair was found under the victim's own fingertips. Cause of death - trauma to head with unknown object." Taking off her safety glasses and gloves, Scully picked up the file on the lab bench. "Toxicology reports show that Ms. Edwards ingested a great amount of alcohol, resulting in a BAC content of .17. There were no other abnormalities in the lab report or autopsy." * * * * * 8:29 a.m. "Morning Mulder." Scully hurried to meet her partner outside Inspector Gouldstone's office. "Gee, Scully, nice of you to join us. I thought I would have to go in without you." "Fat chance, Mulder." Scully quickly looked herself over in her pocket mirror. "I just came from the Edwards autopsy. What were you doing? Sleeping?" "Actually, I did a little investigating. I'll tell you about it when we get inside." He held the door open for Scully and the two entered the office. "What are you doing here?" Scully and Mulder were shocked to find Phoebe Greene sitting behind the desk. "Good morning, Mulder, Scully. I'm Inspector Gouldstone's partner. I'm really looking forward to working with you again." * * * * * ===================================================================== ====== From: mksr79@aol.com (MKSR79) Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW - PRETEND (3/6) Date: 12 Dec 1995 14:48:53 -0500 *****Pretend (3/?)***** TIME SPAN - THIRD SEASON, NO SPOILERS DISCLAIMER - Fox Mulder and Dana Scully are owned by Chris Carter and Ten Thirteen Productions. No copyright infringement intended. LET'S BE FRIENDS!!! - Write me at robinson@htp.net. I love any and all comments on my stories. DEDICATION - Thank you to Vickie M., who helped me and wrote the catty scene in Part 2. It was terrific! SUMMARY - Mulder and Scully travel to London to catch a serial killer murdering American women and leaving behind a guardian angel pin. At the same time, they run into Phoebe. In order to save Mulder from the wrath of Phoebe, Scully agrees to pose as Mulder's fiancee. RATING - PG-13 * * * * * **Pretend (3/?)** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net The two Americans stared at one another in shock. "Why didn't you tell us about this last night, Phoebe?" Scully was the first to recover her voice, and forced the question out. Greene wore a smug grin that made Scully want to strangle her. "I wanted it to be a surprise. Was it?" Mulder grimaced. "Oh, definitely." "Ah, there you are, Agent Scully. Are we ready to begin now?" Inspector Gouldstone strolled into the room, oblivious to the tension between the parties. Ill at ease, Mulder and Scully sat down across from the two English persons. "I conducted the autopsy on Christine Edwards this morning. She died from trauma to her head with a blunt object, probably a rock or something else near the crime scene. Her injuries suggest that she was attacked by surprise and put up a fight before her death. There was nothing unusual about the toxicology reports, except for a high blood alcohol concentration level." "Same as the other victims." Inspector Gouldstone handed over the complete case files from the other American murders. "In each case, the woman fought before her attacker subdued her. Also, the toxicology reports on all of the victims are the same - high BAC content." Mulder spoke up. "I spoke to the family and friends of Karen Jenkins this morning. They all said the same thing - Karen enjoyed hanging out at a bar called O'Malleys on the outskirts of London. She went there the night of her murder." "That would explain the high percent of alcohol in her blood," Scully answered thoughtfully. "That's not it, Scully. I did a little checking with the bartender of O'Malleys and showed her pictures of the victims. She identified four out of five of the women being there in the past month." "It looks like why have our connection," Gouldstone mused. "Now what do we do about it?" Phoebe offered her plan. "Simple. The killer is going for Americans, right? Why don't we use Scully as bait?" "NO!" All eyes turned to Mulder. "I don't think that's a good idea. We could stake out the bar and look for suspicious characters." Gouldstone shook his head. "I don't know, Mulder. Phoebe's plan sounds good. We could catch the killer a lot quicker." "But-" Mulder's rebuttal was cut off by Scully. "Could we have a few minutes alone, please?" Gouldstone and Greene left the office, Phoebe lingering in the doorway. "What's the matter, Mulder? You're being extremely overprotective." Scully faced her partner. He sat there, staring at Dana. "I just don't want you to take any unnecessary risks. We could just as easily catch this guy staking out the bar." "You know me, Mulder. I don't take unnecessary risks. I WANT to do this." "What if Phoebe is setting you up?" Scully's features hardened into an iron mask. "Then she's going to have some hell to pay." Mulder almost laughed at his worrying. He knew Scully could take care of herself. But, a few extra precautions wouldn't hurt. The two inspectors reentered the room. "Scully has decided to act as bait for the set-up, but there must be safety nets. First of all, I want Scully to be wired. Secondly, there should be a surveillance van fully equipped while Scully is in the bar. Inside an officer will be watching her moves every minute." "Agreed." * * * * * 7:47 p.m. O'Malleys sat on the outskirts of London, an Irish pub famous for the beer and company. "Are you sure about this, Scully?" Mulder clasped her hand in his and held it. "Don't worry about me, Mulder." She gave him the patented "Calm down Mulder" smile and extricated her hand from his. "Is the mike working?" Phoebe answered from the other side of the van. "Loud and clear." "Where's Gouldstone? Shouldn't he be here?" Phoebe waved the question off. "It seems as if his mother took ill and he had to go and visit her. Don't worry about it. Now, go ahead and have a good time." "Oh, I will." Giving Mulder one last look, Scully exited the vehicle. * * * * * 8:12 p.m. "So, what's your name, Red?" The six foot man loomed over Scully at her table. Semi-drunk, he started swaying, giving Scully a headache. With that encouragement in mind, Scully flashed him her brightest smile. "Dana. You come here often?" "No. My buddies and I just stopped by after work for a drink. HEY GUYS!" The man excused himself to retrieve his buddies. He wasn't the killer. * * * * * 8:12 p.m. Mulder was listening to Scully's conversation. "Well, even though Scully didn't find the killer, it looks as if she's got a new boyfriend." Phoebe laughed. "Aren't you jealous, Mulder? "Dana can take care of herself. I know that she loves me." "Maybe that's so, but do you love her?" She came closer, allowing her gaze to rest on Mulder. "I've seen you look at me, Mulder. I know you've been watching me." He tried to move away, but it was hard to do in a van. "What are you talking about, Phoebe?" "Why don't you stop this silly game you and Scully are playing? It's all a joke. WE could be very good together, Mulder." She began kissing him passionately. "No." Mulder pulled away, wiping his lips of the offensive lipstick. "I love Dana, Phoebe. We're happy together, and I trust her with my life. Let me be happy, Phoebe. Leave me alone." He realized with a start he meant everything he said. Scully was the most important person in his life. Her presence filled a void left by his parents, Samantha, and Phoebe. He DID love her. "Wait a minute." Mulder turned towards the electrical board, staring at a switch. "Who turned off the audio?" "I did." "You what?" Mulder felt the anger explode through his body. He flipped the switch. "What's happening? I don't hear Scully." "Maybe there's a glitch." Turning on the walkie-talkie, she contacted the agent inside. "Tracy, is Agent Scully in sight?" The response was hard to hear over the static. "No, Greene. She exited about ten minutes ago." Mulder was frantic now. "Where did she go?" "I think she was going to check out a lead on Squire Lane." He turned off the walkie-talkie and shoved his gun in his holster. "I'm going there now." "So am I." "No. You have to see here and monitor the audio." He started out of the van, then turned back. "If anything happens to her, Phoebe, I'm holding you personally responsible." With the threat still hanging in the air, he raced down the street, heading for Squire Lane. * * * * * ===================================================================== ====== From: mksr79@aol.com (MKSR79) Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW-PRETEND (4/6) Date: 12 Dec 1995 17:56:53 -0500 Sorry this didn't post the first time around. Hope you like it! *****Pretend (4/?)***** TIME SPAN - THIRD SEASON, NO SPOILERS DISCLAIMER - Fox Mulder and Dana Scully are owned by Chris Carter and Ten Thirteen Productions. No copyright infringement intended. LET'S BE FRIENDS!!! - Write me at robinson@htp.net. I love any and all comments on my stories. DEDICATION - Thank you to Vickie M., who helped me and wrote the catty scene in Part 2. It was terrific! SUMMARY - Mulder and Scully travel to London to catch a serial killer murdering American women and leaving behind a guardian angel pin. At the same time, they run into Phoebe. In order to save Mulder from the wrath of Phoebe, Scully agrees to pose as Mulder's fiancee. RATING - PG-13 (Foul language used in this piece but not bad - even I would say it!) * * * * * **Pretend (4/?)** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net Squire Lane "Scully!!!" Mulder searched the area for his partner. The avenue was well known for its weekly block party, and tonight was no exception. Hundreds milled around Mulder, blocking his view. "Scully!" He called again, then realized it was fruitless. "Where the hell is she?" Angered, he picked up his walkie talkie. "Phoebe, any news?" "I spoke to Inspector Tracy, Mulder. Scully left with Gouldstone." "What?" "You heard me. He approached her and the two of them left together, presumably to check out a lead on Squire Lane." The wheels turned inside Mulder's mind. "They're not here." "How do you know that?" "I just know. Get an APB out on Gouldstone's car. If I'm correct Gouldstone knows a lot more than he is telling us. How fast can you get down here?" * * * * * Scotland Yard The click clack of Mulder's heels on the marble floor as he paced echoed through the interrogation room. "Gouldstone had the perfect opportunity to murder those women and take Scully. One-he's very attractive. He could get the women drunk and then take them outside and kill them. Two-being a police officer could make these females feel safe with him, ergo them being surprised at the attack. Thirdly, he had the perfect opportunity to kidnap Scully. Neither of us knew that he would not be involved in the surveillance tonight. His knowledge of the set-up would enable him to disconnect the audio and keep the inside agents quiet while he snuck out behind our backs. Now we just have to figure out where they went." Greene listened with a sickening clarity. "What's his motive?" The case file careened down the table to the woman. "Gouldstone's mother left him at the age of three to live with her boyfriend slash lover. She left her son with a drunk father that abused him so badly that he was in a hospital for multiple fractions for two years. Your social services system placed him in a foster home at the age of fourteen, but not before the damage was done. In case you didn't guess already Gouldstone's mother was made in the good old U.S. of A." "Then he lied about where he was going tonight." "Obviously." Sarcasm reigned as king. "Listen, Phoebe, I don't care if you are hurt because your friend kept a secret from you. What matters is where he took Scully. Can you think of any place that he owns or goes to?" She searched her brain. "Not that I know of. I'll call his friends and see if they know of any place." "I'll check the case file on him once again." They sat down to continue the search for the missing agent. * * * * * Scully's excruciating headache awakened her from unconsciousness. "Mulder?" Her hands and feet were bound with silver duck tape. She looked around the dank living room, confused. "Are you feeling okay, Agent Scully?" Gouldstone crouched beside her, offering a cup of tea. "Why don't you try this? It will cure what ails you." Scully declined. "Why did you bring me here? The last thing I remember is going with you to Squire Lane." His evil smile filled Scully with dread. "Well, Dana, I guess you missed the best part. As soon as you entered the car I put a chloroform-soaked rag over your mouth and nose. You put up quite a fight, but finally the drug kicked in and we were able to travel quietly to my humble abode. Do you like it?" His sweeping arm gesture drew Scully's attention to the room she was being held in. It was as if she was in a time warp. The furniture, magazines, and clothes scattered about were reminiscent of twenty years ago. The Bee Gees warbled in the background. "What the hell is going on here? I feel like I'm in the Twilight Zone." "I brought you here to kill you. You know," Gouldstone started to wax poetic, "All Americans are whores. My mother was a whore. She left me with a son of a bitch father who tried to beat me to death. Aren't mothers supposed to protect their children?" Scully could feel his anger, his pain. "Why hurt me, Paul? I don't want to hurt you." "But you have." He stared at her, seeing his mother in Scully. "You're an American, right? You all deserve to die." Making the silent plea for help, Scully decided to use another tactic-stalling. "Why don't you tell me about your family? Maybe I can help?" Using her most winsome smile, Dana got Paul Gouldstone to keep talking. * * * * * Scotland Yard "Mulder!" Greene raced into the interrogation room. "No one has any clue where Gouldstone might be. It was a dead end. You?" He finally looked up from the paper he had been reading for the past half hour. "I think I got it, Phoebe." Hurrying, he grabbed his suit coat and put his gun in its holster. "Where would a man go who is obsessed with his childhood life?" Recognition dawned in Phoebe's eyes. "His childhood home." "Correct. It says here that Gouldstone owns the building and the five acres surrounding it. It's very private, and in a 15 kilometer radius of where the other bodies have been found. Do you know how to get to 522 Warwick Lane in Kings Park?" "I believe I do. Ready to go?" "Let's blow this pop stand." They raced out of the building. * * * * * ===================================================================== ====== From: mksr79@aol.com (MKSR79) Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW - PRETEND (5/6) Date: 12 Dec 1995 14:48:59 -0500 *****Pretend (5/6)***** TIME SPAN - THIRD SEASON, NO SPOILERS DISCLAIMER - Fox Mulder and Dana Scully are owned by Chris Carter and Ten Thirteen Productions. No copyright infringement intended. LET'S BE FRIENDS!!! - Write me at robinson@htp.net. I love any and all comments on my stories. DEDICATION - Thank you to Vickie M., who helped me and wrote the catty scene in Part 2. It was terrific! SUMMARY - Mulder and Scully travel to London to catch a serial killer murdering American women and leaving behind a guardian angel pin. At the same time, they run into Phoebe. In order to save Mulder from the wrath of Phoebe, Scully agrees to pose as Mulder's fiancee. RATING - PG-13 * * * * * **Pretend (5/6)** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net 522 Warwick Road Kings Park, London "She deserted us, Dana." Gouldstone broke down, sobbing. Scully felt sorry for him, even though he was planning to kill her. Like most serial killers, Inspector Paul Gouldstone was a product of an unhealthy environment. Early childhood experiences had scarred him for life, making him angry and willing to take his anger out on anything that reminded him of his mother, namely American females. "Paul, I'm sure that we could help you. Turn yourself in." She was pleading now. "I could get you some psychiatric help." He rose from his fetal position, gazing at her with eyes as cold as ice. "There's no turning back, Scully. Why would I want to?" His maniacal laugh cut her to the core. "Since I am sure you would like to be informed, I will be slitting your throat, letting the blood slowly seep from your body, resulting in a slow, painful death. Any last words?" "Don't do this, Paul. I'm not your mother." Scully handled the situation carefully, knowing one mistaken remark could result in her early death. "You're just hurting people like she did." Her attacker let out a bloodcurdling scream. "DON'T EVER SAY THAT! I'M NOT MY MOTHER!" *CRASH* Wood splintered as Mulder and Greene entered the living room. "Hands up, Gouldstone. Step away from Scully." Instinctively Gouldstone grabbed Scully to his chest and held the knife next to her throat. "No way, Mulder. Your little girlfriend is not getting out of this alive." He started to push the baiting knife slowly into Scully's flesh. "NO!!!" Mulder threw himself at Gouldstone, knocking him and Scully to the ground. Scully rolled to Phoebe, where Greene untied her. "Mulder!" The two adversaries rolled on the ground, Mulder trying to possess the knife, Gouldstone trying to stab Mulder with the knife. Mulder landed on top of the killer, continuously knocking his hand to the ground, hoping to free the knife from his grasp. Gouldstone plunged the knife into Mulder's abdomen. "MULDER!" Scully picked up his gun and shot Gouldstone point blank. As her kidnapper fell to the ground, Scully raced over to the man she loved. His eyes were clouded and the wound oozed blood. She applied pressure to the cut as she yelled to Phoebe to call an ambulance. "Mulder, are you okay?" With much difficulty he answered. "Just dandy." He began to cough. "Are you okay Scully?" She almost laughed at the absurdity of the question. "I wasn't knifed, Mulder. I'm fine. The ambulance will be here soon. Just relax. Everything's going to be fine." He gripped her hand more firmly. "You aren't going to leave me, are you Scully?" "Not a chance, Mulder." * * * * * ===================================================================== ====== From: mksr79@aol.com (MKSR79) Newsgroups: alt.tv.x-files.creative Subject: NEW - PRETEND (6/6) Date: 12 Dec 1995 14:49:21 -0500 *****Pretend (6/6)***** TIME SPAN - THIRD SEASON, NO SPOILERS DISCLAIMER - Fox Mulder and Dana Scully are owned by Chris Carter and Ten Thirteen Productions. No copyright infringement intended. DOESN'T ANYBODY LIKE ME? - I haven't really received any feedback on this story. Did you like it? Did you READ it? PLEASE write me at robinson@htp.net. This story is really important to me and I would like to hear what people think. DEDICATION - Thank you to Vickie M., who helped me and wrote the catty scene in Part 2. It was terrific! SUMMARY - Mulder and Scully travel to London to catch a serial killer murdering American women and leaving behind a guardian angel pin. At the same time, they run into Phoebe. In order to save Mulder from the wrath of Phoebe, Scully agrees to pose as Mulder's fiancee. RATING - PG-13 * * * * * **Pretend (6/6)** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net St. Jude's Episcopal Hospital London "Isn't there anything better on than reruns of 'Absolutely Fabulous?'" Mulder stabbed at the remote control. "Great. I have to be stuck in bed in a country that only has two channels." "Tsk, tsk, Mulder. You're lucky to be alive." Scully stood in the doorway of the hospital room. "Looking mighty fine, 'Fox.'" "She's not around, is she?" He surreptitiously looked for his former lover. "What are you trying to do, kill me?" She laughed. "Don't worry, Mulder, she's not with me. How are you feeling?" "Pretty good. Bored, but good. Did you finish up the case?" "Yes. ISS cleared me of all charges. The shooting was necessary and called for. Once you get out of the hospital we can return to D.C." "Leaving without saying goodbye, agents Mulder and Scully?" Greene's voice shook the partners out of their comfortable conversation. They watched as she carried a large bouquet of flowers to the nightstand. "Phoebe, I'm glad you came. I'd like to thank you for your involvement in freeing me from Gouldstone. You helped save my life." "It was nothing." Seemingly humbled, the Englishwoman faced the engaged couple. "I would like to apologize about what happened in the van, Mulder. I can see now how much you and Scully love each other. I hope you have a wonderful life together." Shaking hands with both of the agents, Phoebe said goodbye and left. "Wow," Mulder commented, amazed at the woman's change. "i wonder what made her change." "Maybe it is what happened in the van." Scully eyed her partner closely. "What DID happen? This is the first I have ever heard of it." "Nothing. Want to watch 'Benny Hill'?" "No. What happened Mulder?" "I'll tell you about it. Someday. Now, sit down and we'll enjoy the odd sense of humor that the English have." "So *that's* where you get it from." She sat down on the bed next to him, glad they were finally back to normal. * * * * * Two Weeks Later J. Edgar Hoover Building Washington D.C., U.S.A. "Welcome back, Mulder." He was greeted by a ton of mail. "And these are only the urgent ones." "Haha, funny." On the top of the pile lay a letter from London. "Why didn't you open this letter from Phoebe? It's addressed to both of us." "I was afraid." Mulder felt her warm breath over his shoulder as he opened the envelope. "Don't worry Scully. It's probably just a formal apology in writing. You know those English..." His voice trailed off as he read the note inside. Mulder and Scully, I hope you are having an easy time readjusting to the states. Just writing to tell you I am looking forward to coming to the wedding. March 31, right? I'll be awaiting my invitation. Phoebe "D'oh!" THE END WRITE ME AT mksr79@aol.com * * * * * MaryKate's words of wisdom - the only true way of being happy is being yourself. *****Pretending***** TIME SPAN - Third Season, no spoilers SUMMARY - This piece is a sequel to my earlier "Pretend." When we last left off, Mulder and Scully returned to the U.S. after working a case in England. While there, the two had pretended to be engaged to protect Mulder from the womanly wiles of one Phoebe Greene. DISCLAIMER - The characters of Fox Sculder and Dana Mully are owned and operated by Ten Thirteen Productions and Chris Carter. No copyright infringement intended. TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK - by writing to me at robinson@htp.net. Please? Be your best friend. DEDICATION - In my 16 (almost 17) years of life, I have faced many obstacles. Without my family, I would not have been able to accomplish what I have, and I wouldn't possess the the qualities I am most proud of: my high moral standards, my self confidence, my emotional stability, and a loving family I can count on. To my mother, who has taught me that doing your best is enough, and for making me believe that whatever I do I will be successful and always loved. To my father, whose insight and intelligence has made me love learning, and strive towards a goal I can attain because *he* believed in me. To my brother Sean, who has tried to act like a father to me since our father died, and who I can look up to and admire. Lastly, to my sister, who showed me that we're not perfect, and we *do* need help, and not be too proud to ask for it. I love you all, and I hope I make you proud. DEDICATION #2 (to be posted alternately with DEDICATION #1) - As my family has been a great factor in my life, so have my friends. To Sherin, for understanding and acceptance of differences. Al, who showed me the meaning of discipline and strong beliefs. Sheila gave me the gift of innocence and naivete. Jay is responsible for trust and protection. Kurt stands for change and growth. Caryn has helped me with inner strength and a definable character. Luc has given me a sense of myself and self-esteem. Finally, Susan, and honesty, analyzation, and knowledge. Thank you. * * * * * **Pretending** MaryKathryn S. Robinson robinson@htp.net Basement J. Edgar Hoover Building Washington, D.C. March 18, 1996 Scully searched her desk in vain. There was no sign of any Excedrin anywhere. "Damn." Fox Mulder looked up from the computer screen. "What is it, Scully?" "Would you happen to have any aspirin by any chance, Mulder?" "Sure." Reaching into his top drawer he threw the Extra Strength Tylenol bottle across the room to his partner. "Hangover from St. Patrick's Day?" "You know me, a closet alcoholic." Pouring a glass of water, she swallowed the tablets. "As Aunt Dana I was voted into kiddie duty at the party last night. Six screaming kids can give you quite a headache." "I wouldn't know. I'm smart enough not to spend my free time with children." Mulder gave her a smile. "Cheer up. We're in D.C. for an unspecified amount of time catching up on our paperwork. There's nothing pressing for us to do. What could go wrong?" "Not much," she answered, allowing herself a small smile. ***** "Want to go get some lunch, Scully?" Mulder placed his glasses on the table, rubbing the bridge of his nose lightly. It was after twelve, and they had been working steadily since nine. "Sounds good, Mulder." Her headache had almost dissipated, leaving her feeling better and hungry. "Grab my coat, will you?" Stepping around the desk, her heel caught in the rug. As she fell forward, Scully's trip to the ground was cut short with the feel of Mulder's arms against her. "My my, Agents Scully and Mulder, I always seem to catch you at a bad time, don't I?" They followed the voice with the British accent to the doorway, where Scotland Yard's own Phoebe Greene stood in the doorway. Mulder spoke first. "And may I ask what the hell you are doing here?" She seemed not to hear, casually entering the office and looking around. "You've done wonders with the furnishings, my dears. Oh yes, you asked me a question. Well, I was offered a chance to attend a seminar on the difference between American and English procedures, and I jumped at the chance. I mean, how could I miss the opportunity to attend my good friend's wedding?" The headache that had disappeared came back in full force, causing Dana to rub her temples vigorously. Noticing she was still in Mulder's arms she took a step back, only to be pulled in closer. Smiling weakly, she rested her head against his chest and let him deal with Phoebe. "I'm sorry, Phoebe, but you seem to be too late." Pulling Scully even closer, he brushed his fingers across her face. "You see, we're already married." The shock flitted across Inspector Greene's face, only to be quickly replaced with an impassive mask. "Congratulations. When did the happy occasion occur?" "February 23rd." Mulder answered smoothly. "We couldn't wait until March to get married, and it was Scully's birthday." "I'm sure you knew what you were getting into." "Yes." Finally finding her voice, Scully spoke up. "I mean, only a total fool would let a man like this get away." A hand flew up to her mouth. "I hope you didn't take that the wrong way." "I took it the way you meant it." "Well, Phoebe, we're just about to call it a day." Mulder let go of Scully and reached for their jackets. "We're still on our honeymoon, you know." "I understand." Phoebe stood aside to let them pass. "I would like to take you two out as a wedding present. I feel simply awful that I wasn't at your wedding." "As do we." Mulder held out her coat as Scully stepped into it. "But Fox and I planned a special evening at home together. Even though we're married it doesn't seem as if we can stay away from each other for a second." She shot her "husband" a secret smile, effectively cutting Phoebe from their connection. "Why don't you call us tomorrow? We'd be happy to get together." "Sounds absolutely fabulous." Phoebe looked at her watch. "I must go and speak to your superior, an Assistant Director Skinner?" They nodded. "I'm off. I look forward to tomorrow. I can't *wait* to hear *all* the details." They both breathed a sigh of relief as they watched the English Inspector saunter off to the stairway. Walking briskly down the hallway, Scully waited until they were alone in the elevator to talk. "What the hell were you thinking, Mulder? You keep digging yourself deeper and deeper, and bringing me with you. What's the matter? Are you lonely in your hole?" "It just slipped out Scully. Really." "It's not going to work this time." The elevator jolted to a stop at the first floor. The doors opened as the two walked to the garage. "Follow me to my place, Mulder. Or should I say our place?" "I thought we were going out to lunch." "I'd rather yell at you in private." He thought about it for a second before nodding his agreement. "I'd rather have you yell at me in private." * * * * * She heard a knock on the door. Pulling the sweatshirt over her head, Scully walked through the living room to the kitchen. "It's open," she called out, as she opened the refrigerator. Mulder poked his head in. "Is it safe to enter?" "I guess. I don't have any sharp objects in my hands." Scully pulled out a container of iced tea. "Did you pick up the pizza?" "Half vegetarian and half sausage and pepperoni." He entered the apartment, throwing his leather jacket on the couch and putting the box on the table. "I called Skinner and told him we wouldn't be in this afternoon. No problem." "I think there is." Carrying the drinks and plates to the table, she looked at him seriously. "You need to tell Phoebe the truth, Mulder. There is no point in lying anymore." "Pizza looks good, doesn't it?" "Damn it, Mulder." She slammed her hand down on the table, causing him to look up. "Act like a man and face the consequences. If you can't control your libido, you're not going to be able to control Phoebe's." "What do you mean?" "I saw the dance, the kiss you two shared when she was here in the U.S. the last time. I also know that *something* happened in England. You were hurt by her, understood, but don't use me as a shield." "Scully, you know what happened between Phoebe and myself. And you know what happened during that dance. What you don't know is that the next day I caught her in an embrace with Sir Malcolm. That moment solidified my feelings for her. She's a cold hearted scheming bitch. "I thought I couldn't handle her in England, and that is why I invented the engagement story. When she returned I panicked and started another story." "That's why you have to tell her the truth. Don't let her have this power over you anymore, Mulder." "I know. I'll tell her the truth." "Good." He gave her a sideways look over the slice of pizza he was eating. "And nothing happened in England." "Good." Oddly, this pleased her more than anything. * * * * * Tuesday March 19, 1996 8:02 a.m. Scully walked through the Bullpen, pausing at the door of the Cross Atlantic Training Conference. No. It was up to Mulder. She continued her journey to Skinner's office, stopping only when spying Phoebe in the waiting room. She ducked behind the door, but it was no matter. Phoebe was oblivious to her presence, loudly conversing with the woman next to her. "Did you see that 'Mulder' of yours yesterday?" Phoebe's friend asked, a blonde haired woman. "Yes, but there's a bit of a problem. He seems to be otherwise engaged, or I should say married." Phoebe laughed. "Seems is operative word. He won't be when I get done with him." "What are you thinking of doing, Phoebes?" "Mulder could never be happy with that red haired midget. I'm trying to help him out here." The blonde looked shocked. "That's sick." Phoebe sighed impatiently. "It's a game, darling, a game. A power play. In our last encounter Mulder won. Now it's my turn." "By ruining his life?" "Whatever it takes. And if someone gets hurts in the process..." Dana stepped away from the door dumbfounded, knocking into a hard object. "Sir." "Agent Scully." Skinner loomed over her, concerned. "Are you okay?" "Just fine." Quickly she composed herself. "You wanted to see me, sir?" "Yes, I did. In my office." He opened the door, Scully following. "Hello Phoebe," she said, as politely as possible. Turning away from her, she entered Skinner's office. * * * * * 8:38 am Scully walked into the office, looking over her shoulder. "Mulder." "Hey." Mulder came around the desk and stood in front of it. "What did Skinner want?" "I'll tell you in a minute." Once again she checked over her shoulder as she moved closer to him. "Kiss me, Mulder." "What? Isn't this a little sudden, Scully?" "Just do it, Mulder. Trust me." "What's going on here?" She gave a disgusted sigh as she put her arms around his neck. "I'll have to do it myself." The moment her lips touched his he knew he was lost. He groaned, laying his hands on her waist and holding her tighter. She deepened the kiss, threading her fingers through his hair and holding his head down. Readily he complied, caressing her lips gently with his tongue, opening her mouth. They both heard the knock at the door at the same time. Mulder broke away. "Scully, we have to stop this." "Believe me, Mulder, I know what I'm doing." She stepped in and kissed him. Hard. The door opened as Phoebe looked in. "The two lovebirds caught in the act." Her voice fairly dripped with sarcasm. "I'm so sorry to intrude." Mulder was stunned as Scully turned around and gave her a big smile. "Mulder and I just got carried away." He gave her a look but she continued. "I gather you spoke to Skinner this morning." "Yes, as you did." "Of course." Scully shot Phoebe a sugary smile before turning to Mulder. "Fox, as part of the Cross Atlantic Training Conference, we have been assigned an Inspector from Scotland Yard to shadow us in order to learn about the F.B.I.'s procedures. Phoebe will be accompanying us on our next case.." "What?" For the second time that hour Mulder was speechless. "That was what Skinner wanted to talk to me about." Scully told him quietly. "That, and to give us this." She handed over the case file he had seen her bring in. "No x-file this time, Mulder. This one's a straight profile of a pedophile. A no-brainer, you might say." He flipped through the folder, quickly passing over the children's pictures. "Why us?" "So we can show Phoebe the ropes." "I've been told you're the best, Mulder. I wanted to find out for myself." Phoebe leaned against the doorjamb, languorously stretching for his benefit. "Oh, Phoebe, he *is* the best." Scully walked up to him and rested her hand on his arm. "I'm just not sure you'll be able to see Mulder at the top of his form. He's better when he works one on one." Mulder looked at Scully, a question in his eyes. "Why...?" "I'll tell you later." She hastened to assure him. Phoebe broke in. "When do we leave for Georgia?" "I booked seats on American Airlines flight number 6075 out of Dulles tomorrow at 9:50 am. We'll arrive in Atlanta around noon. We can pick the tickets up at the desk tomorrow morning." She nodded. "Shall I meet you at the airport tomorrow morning?" The partners looked at each other and nodded. "Sounds good to us." The woman walked towards the door, turning back only momentarily. "I'm sorry we have to postpone our dinner once again. But, we'll have all the time in the world in Georgia, right?" Leaving them with a smile, she exited the office. Walking over to the door, Mulder locked it. "What is going on here, Scully?" "I can explain." "Please do." He folded his arms over his chest and stared at her. "What happened to honesty and telling Phoebe the truth?" "It went out the window when I heard Phoebe talking about how she was going to get you, wife or no wife. I couldn't let you fall prey to that..." She spit the words out "She devil!" Mulder smiled in spite of the situation. "Sounds like you're jealous." She blushed. "I'm trying to do *you* a favor, Mulder. As your wife I can help keep Phoebe away from you. It's a friendly act on my part." "You're still jealous." She turned even redder. "And you're cute when you blush, too." "I'm sorry, okay? I'm just trying to help you out, but if you could do better, go ahead and be my guest." "Snippy, snippy." Taking her upper arms, he turned her toward him. "Thank you, Scully. This is very nice of you to do. But what do you know what exactly this is going to entail? Sharing a room, acting like man and wife, coming up with some kind of excuse for Skinner to explain why we're only going to use one room? How are we going to pull this off?" "Somehow." The resolve was evident in her eyes. "Phoebe Greene is not going to get the satisfaction, Mulder. I'll go talk to Skinner about it. Do we have a deal?" "Yes." Watching her unlock the door, he called out. "That kiss was part of the act?" She turned back. "Of course. Why else would I do such a thing?" "No reason. Tell Skinner I said hi." He let her leave without another comment. Pacing across the basement floor, he said to himself, "How am I going to keep away from Scully when she kisses like that?" Outside the office, Scully collapsed against the hallway wall, touching her lips gently. "How is this going to work?" Office of Assistant Director Skinner J. Edgar Hoover Building 9:07 a.m. Holly spoke into the intercom. "Agent Scully is here to see you again, Sir." Through the static it was still possible to hear Skinner's authoritative voice. "Send her in, please." Holly nodded to Scully. Straightening her skirt, Scully strode to the doorway, knocking lightly before the voice beckoned her to come in. Standing in front of Skinner's desk, Scully became aware of her nervousness. Her palms were sweaty, and an incredible urge to fidget washed over her. Instead of giving in, Dana composed herself and addressed her superior. "Sir, there's a matter I would like to discuss with you." He pointed to a chair. "Sit down, Agent Scully." Lifting his head from his paperwork, he looked her straight in the eye. "This is about Inspector Greene, correct?" "Yes sir." Skinner heaved a sigh. "I know you have had difficulties with Greene in the past, but I am unable to reassign her to another pair of agents. She specifically asked for Agent Mulder, and she has very close ties with the Director of Scotland Yard. I'm sorry, Scully." "I wasn't going to ask for a reassignment, sir," she hastened to assure him. "I don't know if you are aware of Agent Mulder's past relationship with Phoebe Greene." "I'm not." He leaned back in his chair, taking off his glasses. The little gesture gave Scully a boost of confidence. "Well, sir, she is an old friend of Mulder's from his days at Oxford. They were... romantically involved. Now Phoebe has reset her sights on Agent Mulder, and is not taking no for an answer." "And Mulder's having problems with this?" "Sir, Phoebe Greene is a vindictive, backstabbing woman who almost ruined the D'Lively case eighteen months ago." Scully's green eyes flashed, her anger towards the adversary clearly shown. "Calm down, Agent Scully." She blushed. "I'm sorry. Phoebe is obsessed with 'having' Mulder at all costs, and I'm afraid that Mulder and I, well, we concocted a story to keep her away." "Excuse me?" He sat up, listening intently. Where was Mulder when she needed him? Scully counted to ten and took a deep breath before continuing, getting the words out of her mouth as quickly as possible. "We told Phoebe we were married." "What?" "We weren't thinking, sir. I don't know why we did it. It seemed like a good idea at the time...." She trailed off, realizing the huge mess they had gotten themselves into. Skinner got up from his chair, pacing the spacious office like a tiger in a cage. "And you are telling me this because...?" "Because we have found ourselves in a position where we are unable to confess the true situation to Inspector Greene, and must continue this charade on our case." Scully spoke softly, unable to figure out Skinner's emotions. "Mulder and I wanted to explain the situation and get your okay." "What? You mean my blessing on your holy alliance?" He stopped pacing and looked at her. "Agent Scully, I'm going to ask you a question and I would like it to be answered honestly. Are you romantically involved with Agent Mulder?" "No!" She said, flustered. "Of course not. We're good friends, but never anything more." "Good." He resumed his pacing. "So what do you want me to do for you again, Agent Scully?" She blushed yet again, speaking so softly Skinner had to strain to hear her. "Mulder and I would have to share a room, sir." Skinner sat down once again, returning to his paperwork. "I will allow you two to continue this farce, Agent Scully, as well as signing off on two rooms instead of three on this next trip to Georgia. But, after this Cross-Atlantic Conference is over, I do not want to hear of this, or Phoebe Greene, ever again." "Thank you sir." "You may go." He watched as she rushed out of the room, then reached into his top desk drawer to locate his Extra Strength Maalox. chewing the multi-colored tablets, Skinner rested his head on the high backed leather chair, feeling the signs of a headache coming on to match his ulcer pains. Scully let herself out of Skinner's office, smiling at Holly on the way out of the waiting room. She walked confidently to the elevator, pushing "B" for basement. Skinner had given his okay for the continuation of the "marriage." Unbelievable. She had thought that he would stop it, nod his head no and that would be the end of the discussion. But he decided to allow it, leaving her in a tight situation. To be honest, she would have been relieved if he had called the farce she had been calling "Operation Whitewash Greene" off. It would have saved her from herself. What possessed her to kiss Mulder? It would have been just as easy to pretend that they were in an embrace, but Scully held nothing back and kissed him. It was the most wonderful kiss that she had ever been involved in. There were limits on her experience, but kissing Mulder was like...losing herself in the passion between them. What was she saying? Mulder was her partner, a friend. Okay, her best friend, but more like a brother. Wait, definitely *not* a brother., but *not* a romantic interest either. Until now. Since that first day in March Dana the woman was blocked out and Scully took over. Scully the professional missed the soulful hazel eyes, the lean swimmer's body, the acute sense of humor and sensual intelligence, but Dana didn't. Today Dana (who had been let out for short periods of time but never showed her face) surfaced, taking over. It was the woman in her that kissed him like there was no tomorrow, kissed him like she had wanted to for the past four years. And both Dana and Scully enjoyed it. It was going to be the hardest experience of her life, keeping her feelings for Mulder under wraps for the assignment. Yet, for Mulder's sake and her own, she would have to. The elevator jolted, signaling her arrival on the basement floor. Feeling like a schoolgirl caught with impure thoughts, Scully took a deep breath, and plunged down the basement hallway. * * * * * He sat examining the photos in the case file, repulsed. It was these types of cases that bothered him the most, these cases that involved the abuse towards innocent children. As he did with each of child cases, he swore to himself that he would catch the perpetrator, the one responsible. And he almost always did. Closing the case file, Mulder willed the images away, settling his thinking on a more safe but just as incendiary train of thought - Scully. The kiss they had shared was pure magic, of the most dangerous kind. He found himself wanting more, needing more, after one embrace, one kiss. How the hell was he supposed to pretend to be her husband, sleep in the same room with her, without acting upon those feelings? A few months ago in England, Mulder admitted to Phoebe that he loved Scully. He was surprised when he felt that it was true, not just another act to scare Phoebe away. He had loved her from a long time, not admitting it to himself. When he returned to the States, Fox knew that it wasn't the time to make her aware of his feelings. Bottling them inside, he acted as he usually would, never letting on. It was hard. The intense blue eyes seemed to beckon, the auburn hair tempting him to run his fingers through the silky waves. When he had an episode with that Detective White, it was all he could do to not tell Scully it wasn't Detective White but *her* in his heart. The next few days were going to be pure torture. Loving her in public, business as usual in private...it was enough to drive an already unstable man crazy. But if he loved her enough in public... The knock on the office door interrupted his thoughts. "Can I come in?" Scully stood in the open doorway, looking nervous. He swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat and nodded. "What did Skinner say?" He posed the question casually, yet waited on the edge of his seat for an answer. She sat down on the edge of his desk, looking down at her skirt's nubby fabric. "He okayed it." The answer was barely audible. "What?" She looked up, meeting his gaze. "Skinner has allowed us to continue our...plans." Inwardly he cheered, while his face belied any inner feelings. "So I guess this is going to happen then." "I guess." She stood up, turning around at the doorway. "I'll see you at my place around seven tomorrow?" "Got it." Mulder nodded in way of goodbye, then stood up himself. He had some plans to make. 11:16 a.m. American Airlines Flight #6075 Business Class Somewhere over South Carolina Mulder looked down at his sleeping partner-slash-wife, her head resting on his shoulder. It was this that he wanted from life, this peacefulness that rested upon both of them. But it was all an act for the woman sitting across the aisle from him. Phoebe Greene watched them in their cozy setting, the jealousy creating a bitter taste in her mouth. That damn red haired wench had taken her place in Mulder's heart. Not too long ago it she was the love of Mulder's life, the one that got away. Now, he was the one that was happy in love, and she was the one left with only her hatred and viciousness to keep her comfort. In the ten years that Mulder and she had parted ways, it was he that had become the self-assured, independent, and successful agent. What had she done? Phoebe Greene had used her intelligence to sleep to the top of Scotland Yard, "earning" her a promotion to Chief Inspector. After all, it was a man's world, and her claws were the only way to climb up the ladder. Professionally, she and Mulder were on the same level, maybe she was even on a higher rung. Even though the men in her office looked at her like the slut she was, they respected her working ability, the innate sense she had as an investigator. Mulder didn't even have that. Every one of them looked down their noses at him, telling him in oh-so-many ways he wasn't welcome in the good old boy's club. Ha! Yet...she frowned. What did she have in her life? Nothing. No pets, no family, no great quest to sustain her, and no significant other to love. She surreptitiously cast her gaze to the sleeping couple to the left of her. Any idiot could see the love they had for one another. It was in each kiss, touch. A simple conversation turned into foreplay between them, and one felt like she were intruding. They were gloriously in love, and supremely happy. It was driving her up the wall. Why should Mulder be the one who was happy? In college they were both considered "doomed," going past the edge that people were never meant to cross. In fact, they pushed one another across it. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle definitely could attest to that. Ten years later, she was still pushing the envelope, and Mulder had become...staid. A life she wanted but never attained. She would make sure that he wouldn't have it either. * * * * * Scully was having a fabulous dream. In it, she was sitting at her desk when Mulder burst in, professing his love. Standing up, she crossed the room to him, pulling his head down and kissing him passionately. As she softly murmured her love for him, he pushed her down on the desk and removed her shirt, unhurriedly, one button at a time... "Mulder," she murmured, feeling his hard chest underneath her, loving the feel of the washboard stomach pressing against her hand. He was having trouble breathing. When Scully murmured his name like that...Mulder couldn't resist brushing his fingers across her cheek, the flesh warm and soft against his calloused hands. Her eyes flittered as Scully woke up slowly and became aware of her surroundings. Letting go of his shirt, she looked up, finding Mulder's gaze searching her face. "Are you okay, Scully?" He asked, concerned. "You called out my name." Oh my God. She had called out his name during the dream. Blushing, Scully turned away from him, looking out the window while she straightened her clothes. "It was nothing, Mulder," she mumbled, embarrassed. "If you say so." Behind the serious hazel eyes she saw the usual glint of amusement. "Was I good?" He knew, and was laughing at her! Summoning all her courage, Scully returned his stare. "Better than you will ever know." His voice dropped a notch, the sensual tones reaching her ear and her ear alone. "We'll have to see about that later tonight, Agent Scully." The statement made Scully's stomach drop to the floor in both excitement and dread. Was she actually flirting with her partner and best friend? Yes, and she was enjoying it. Although she knew she shouldn't, Scully found herself answering him. "We'll just have to, won't we?" As soon as the words were out of her mouth, Scully inwardly cringed. Why was she continuing this flirtation between them? It wasn't as if anything could ever happen between them. Even if they wanted to, there was an unspoken rule in the F.B.I. about no fraternization between partners. She stopped the train of thought immediately. She was doing this for Mulder, only playing a part in a carefully directed farce. She was *allowed* to flirt with her husband, maybe even do a bit *more* than that. Turning her head away from Mulder, Scully found Phoebe staring at them, the intense jealousy burning in her eyes. Had she been like that, once upon a time in Boston? Yes, but now she had the upper hand, and the cards were stacked in her favor. The act began. Smiling, Scully rested her hand on Mulder's upper thigh, squeezing lightly. "Honey," she said loud enough for Phoebe to hear, "Do you think we'll get the chance to spend some time alone together this time down south? You know what this hot weather does to me." She nipped lightly on his ear, pulling the lobe between her teeth. What was she doing? The question popped into Mulder's mind, but he was too busy enjoying Scully's lips and hands roaming over his body. "I," he croaked out, stopping sound from leaving his mouth. The deep breath cleansed him and allowed him to realize what Scully was doing. Smiling slightly, he pulled her closer, growling, "I think you're looking for my lips, dear." She pulled back slightly, red. "What?" "Why don't you kiss me?" He pointed to his lips, pouting. "Right here." The grin he gave her could have lit all of New York City. He had her right where he wanted her. There was no way she could refuse without arousing the suspicions of Phoebe. Folding his arms behind his head, he tapped his foot, looking at her. "I'm waiting." Damn. He had her. Scully saw Phoebe watching them and inwardly cringed. This is exactly what she didn't want to happen. She leaned in, quickly brushing his lips with hers. "Happy?" She murmured under her breath, the grin she gave him looking more like a grimace of pain. "No." He pulled her retreating form back against his chest, holding their hands between them. "I think this is how it's done, Scully." Slowly, tantalizingly, he lowered his mouth to hers, feeling her tremble underneath him. It was unlike the kiss they had shared in the office. This kiss was unrushed, searching, and Dana was taken over by the powerful mastery of her partner's caresses. He pulled back, smiling at her. "You see, Scully," he whispered in her ear, "*That's* the way you do it." Unable to control her raging emotions, Scully turned red, embarrassed at her actions. Turning to Phoebe, Mulder chuckled. "Isn't it cute how my wife blushes?" "Charming." It was obvious that the Englishwoman had witnessed the whole episode. "I gather she's not the type that's so ... adventurous, Mulder. Pity for you. I seem to remember you enjoying our little altercation with Sir Doyle." Mulder gave Scully's hand a squeeze before answering. "It's not the location, Phoebe, it's the quality. You of course know the difference, don't you?" "Who do you think taught you?" She retorted. "Mine's was innate talent." Mulder's smug look caused Scully to chuckle. "Good one," she murmured, before answering Phoebe. "If you only knew Mulder during his learning stages, I pity you." "Oh, I don't know, Scully." She leaned across the aisle, smiling confidently. "Mulder and I had something that no one could ever reproduce. Pure animal magnetism." "Oh really? I thought they only used that phrase in cheesy romance novels." Scully looked at her nails, acting supremely bored with the conversation. "It doesn't really look like it was that special, Phoebes. You know, love and trust have an infinitely stronger pull. Two things he obviously couldn't receive from you." The claws were coming out, and unfortunately Mulder was in the middle. "I think it would be best if we all cooled off, don't you agree? Back to your corners, ladies." Phoebe stood up, allowing her miniskirt to ride up her thigh for Mulder's benefit. "If you'll excuse me, I need to make myself presentable." Scully watched as she retreated to the back of the plain. "Bitch," she said under her breath, heaving a huge sigh. Mulder turned to her. "You did pretty well defending my honor, Scully. I'm very proud of you." "Yeah, well, it was all because of your little show." Turning her anger on him, Scully's eyes sparkled like emeralds. "Thanks a lot, Mulder. What was that all about?" "You started it," he reminded her. "Yeah, but you...kissed me!" She was outraged. "Did you dislike it that much, Scully?" He said sensuously, dropping his voice a few notches to baritone. "I had a feeling you enjoyed it. I did." "What?" The surprise was so clearly evident on her face. "I enjoyed our little embrace before, Scully. I hope we do it again. And often." "Mulder," she said haltingly, trying to make sure she heard him right, "Are you saying what I think you're saying?" "It depends. What do you think I'm saying?" "You tell me." She looked at him warily, unable to tell whether he was joking or not. "I want you, Scully. I have for a long time, and I've been able to keep it in. But now I don't think I can. I will do whatever it takes to make you mine." Shock. Wonder. Awe. The three emotions clouded Scully's mind, making her wonder if she had heard correctly yet again. "I'm sorry, Mulder, I'm having a little but of trouble today," she started cordially, "Please repeat that last comment." He pronounced each word slowly, making sure she understood. "I want you, Dana Katherine Scully." "No you don't." "Oh yes," he smiled, "I do." "No." She shook her head vehemently, unbelieving. "This is just an act Mulder, not real life." "Thanks for that little lesson of illusion versus reality, Scully. But I still want you. And if you want," He leaned in closer, brushing his lips against her soft cheek, "I'll prove it to you later tonight." He was serious. She sat there, stunned, as the news sank in. It was all a dream, she told herself, but it couldn't be. Mulder was here, and he told her he wanted her, and Phoebe was there... She frowned. "I don't want to be your little consolation prize because you can't have Phoebe," She informed him icily, looking out the window and turning away from him. She felt the tears sting her eyelids, but she refused to cry. This was not going how Mulder planned. Lightly touching her chin, he turned her head so he was gazing directly into her eyes. He saw the unshed tears, and the pain behind the beautiful blue irises. "Scully, I don't want Phoebe, or anyone else," he said softly, lightly stroking her cheek. "I want someone I trust and care for. You are the only one I want to hold, and make love to." God help her, she believed him. As she stared into the dark brown depths, she saw the honesty in his eyes, and realized how much she wanted to believe him. "Mulder, I..." She wanted to tell him she wanted him too, had wanted him for years, but suddenly felt shy and ill at ease. Mulder hushed her. "I know." He smiled his crooked grin. "At least, I hope I know." Mulder's self-deprecating humor eased the tension between them, and they laughed. Glad to be back in the same routine, Scully covered his hand with hers squeezing lightly. "I just want you to know I..." she trailed off as Phoebe approached her seat. He followed her gaze and placed a finger over her lips. "We'll talk later," he promised, gently laying his head on hers. "We're together. That's all that matters." The smile he gave Phoebe was a polite grin. "Good to have you back, Phoebe." ***** She scowled as she passed them. Didn't they look so ... disgustingly sweet? Asleep on one another, their fingers intertwined. It could have been an advertisement for marriage. "Be as happy as this couple - get married." Every time she came up with a great plan to break up the duplicitous duo, she was foiled. Every single time! Phoebe had used her time in the bathroom to formulate a plan. Once in Georgia, she would send Ms. Scully-Mulder on a wild goose chase, or snipe hunt, or whatever Americans say, and then she would surprise Mulder, wearing nothing but a smile. It was the biggest cliche in the book, she knew, but it would work. How could it not? Mulder liked her body. Even now, she caught him staring at her legs. It would work. Or so she thought before she had returned to her seats across from the Siamese twins. Something had happened while she was away, of that she was sure. They seemed so close now, so ... happy. Not that they didn't seem the picture of wedded bliss before, but now they were *sure* of their happiness. Phoebe couldn't explain it, but she felt it. Things had changed, and the outlook wasn't so good for her. But ... Phoebe played the part of slut *very* well. By the end of the case she would have Mulder, lock stock and barrel, and the enigmatic Doctor Scully wouldn't know what hit her. The seatbelt sign lit up and the captain announced their arrival into the Atlanta airport. Looking over to Mulder and Scully, Phoebe smiled. "Are we ready for an exciting adventure, my dears?" Holiday Inn Airport Room 522 Atlanta, Georgia 6:17 pm Scully walked past Mulder as he opened the room's door, and promptly collapsed on the queen sized bed. "Well, Mulder," she said quietly, respectful of the sad mood between them, "I don't know if you could say if this day was successful or not." "I know." Gingerly he sat on the bed next to her, wearily pulling the oppressive tie from his neck. "I think we have an accurate profile of the suspect, but what we saw and heard today..." "Was disturbing," she finished for him, sitting up and looking him in the eye. "I don't know, Mulder. I can do autopsies and watch infectious diseases rip apart people's lives, but I can't face what a sick person does to a truly innocent child." "I know, I know," Wrapping his arms around her, Mulder held his partner tight, her back against his chest. "But remember, we're helping these little girls and their families by trying to find this person, to allow for justice to be served. And it will," he added soothingly, burying his face in her hair. God, it felt so good to be held by this man, Scully thought, relishing the feel of his embrace. Turning around, she faced him, placing her arms around his neck. "Thank you, Mulder." He was genuinely baffled. "What for?" "For comforting me. For caring about me. For not just wanting to get me into bed." She stumbled over the last words, unsure of what he would say. "Scully, I don't think you truly understand," he said, looking into her eyes. "I love you." She was speechless for a second time. "Let me tell you a story, Scully," Mulder started, letting go of her and walking to the window. "When we were in England, I had an ... altercation with Phoebe in the surveillance van as you scouted the inside of the pub. She made a pass at me, and all I could think of was that I wished her lips were yours. Pushing her away, I told her I loved you with all my heart, and would never betray your trust, or would I want to. it was then I realized I wasn't acting anymore. I can't even tell you when I started to love you, it just all ... melted together. It could have been the first day, or the second year, I just don't know. It just happened, but now I cannot picture my life without you beside me. "I do want you, Scully, but I want to make love to you, to spend all my time with you, to know you in and out. I want to find out what your favorite toy was when you were a kid, what your favorite television show is, and what book influenced you the most. In short, I want all of you." He turned away from the view and looked at her nervously. In his eyes Scully saw her future. "Slinky," she said softly, advancing towards him. "What?" "That was my favorite toy, the Slinky. My favorite television show is 'Chicago Hope' and the book that influenced me the most was _Gray's Anatomy_." She finally reached him and stood before Mulder, not touching him. "I want all that you do, Mulder, maybe more. I love you too." Their smiles matched, brightening up the darkened room. "Really?" She laughed. "Yes." She stepped into his outstretched arms and was enfolded into his embrace. They stood there for what seemed like an eternity before Scully reached up to touch his lips with hers. Taking his cure, Mulder deepened the kiss, delving into her mouth, taking and giving pleasure. Dana anxiously responded, threading her fingers in his hair and pulling him closer. They were both breathing heavily when they pulled apart. "Scully?" he asked, trying to control himself. "Yes," she replied, then louder, "Yes." As they moved to kiss once again, the phone rang. "Damn," Mulder muttered, angrily picking up the receiver. "Mulder," he barked, upset at the intrusion. "Hello Mulder," Phoebe answered silkily, the husky tones traveling the telephone wire. "I was wondering if I could speak to your wife a second." In everything that was going on with Scully, Mulder had forgotten about Phoebe Greene. Not a smart move. Covering the mouthpiece with his hand, Mulder handed the phone to his partner. "Phoebe," he mouthed, sitting down on the bed. Shooting him a look, Scully placed the phone to her ear. "How may I help you Phoebe?" By giving me your husband, the Inspector thought, but didn't think it wise to say. "Agent Scully, was wondering if you could meet me in the Atlanta Public library in about an hour? I've found some articles I believe might be useful in your profile on the pedophile. I wanted to run it past you, since I don't know a *thing* about American procedures." "Fine," Scully answered shortly, "See you then." Slamming down the hand set, Scully turned to face Mulder. "She's got something up her sleeve, Mulder. I just feel it." "What do you think?" "She asked me to meet her in the public library in an hour, but made no mention of you accompanying us. This is a trap for you, Mulder, so she can finally get her claws into you." The anger was evident in Scully's features. "Scully, you don't think that I want-" He was cut off. "No, of course not." Her features softened slightly. "But she wants you, no doubt about it. What's her room number?" "437 but-" Pulling on her shoes, Scully headed towards the door. "It's time to cut the crap, Mulder, and let Inspector Greene know what she's dealing with." She looked in the mirror once again. Phoebe Greene looked marvelous. The loose fitting silk bathrobe accentuated the curves hidden underneath. It was in this that she would surprise Mulder, and nothing else. "He would have to be dead or a eunic to resist me!" "Oh, he's neither, Phoebe. Believe me." Gazing past her own reflection, Phoebe saw her in the mirror. Turning to face Scully, Phoebe plastered a polite smile on her face. "Why, Agent Scully, I didn't know you were here." Scully laughed dryly. "I didn't think so. You know better not to plan your taking of another woman's husband in front of the said woman." The FBI agent let her eyes rake in her arch enemy's appearance. "I just want you to know, Phoebes, that Mulder's not into the 'look at me I'm wearing nothing' trick. He finds it ... repelling." "Oh really? He liked it at one time ago, far, far away. Maybe his sex drive is gone. Is that why he married you, Agent Scully?" She posed the question innocently, waiting for the explosion. Scully answered patiently. "Tsk, tsk, Phoebe, you really must try to remember more carefully. I told you why Mulder married me. He loves me, and he trusts me. Please, keep up." Suddenly Phoebe stood up, using her towering height to try to intimidate Scully. "You don't think I know about your little charade, Agent Scully? 'I told you why Mulder married me.' You're not married to Mulder! You're not even romantically involved with Mulder. Give it up." She was silent for a moment, letting the information sink in. "How did you know?" Phoebe turned away from her, intent on fixing her hair in the mirror. "I've known since the beginning, *Scully*. I heard your whole conversation with Assistant Director Skinner. 'We're good friends but nothing more.' I must admit, it was a good show. I almost believed in the beginning. *Almost.* But then I came to my senses and knew that Fox Mulder would never get involved with 'The Ice Queen.'" At Scully's shocked look she laughed. "I've heard the stories around the bureau, Agent Scully. I would really do something about that reputation of yours." The last barb seems to strengthen Dana. "Oh, it's kind of you to worry about me, Phoebe, but don't worry. I may be known as an 'Ice Queen,' but at least I'm a respected agent. I mean, I'm not the office slut like you are. Face it, Phoebe, you may have a high rank in Scotland Yard, but deep down you're just a whore. "As for Mulder and myself, we're not married, no. Yet we have something very rare - a relationship that transcends the boundaries of friendship or partners or lovers. We're all of that at the same time and more. You're just jealous, of Mulder, of myself, or our relationship. You see what you could have had, but instead you royally screwed up your life. So now you plan to screw with ours." Phoebe raised her arm to hit Scully but found her forearm caught in Scully's strong grasp. "Don't even think about it, Phoebe." Her voice was controlled, yet seething with anger. "It would take one move, one move, to hurt you. But you're not worth the effort. You're just a sorry little bitch who needs to grow up." Letting go of her arm, Scully walked towards the door. As she opened the door, she called over her shoulder, "Find your own way home. I don't want to see you ever again." "Good sentiment, Scully." Mulder entered the room, throwing his arm over Scully's shoulders. "I think my partner said it all." Phoebe could do nothing but stare at them. Squeezing Scully's shoulders lightly, Mulder continued. "I do think there is one more thing you should know though. Due to this little farce Scully and I participated in for your benefit, the two of us have admitted we are deeply in love and we belong together. We owe you our thanks." They walked out of Phoebe's hotel room, still embracing. Returning to their room, Scully faced Mulder, eyes shining. "We did it, Mulder. She's out of your life." "Don't you mean 'our life?'" Mulder watched as she turned a deep shade of red. "You know, I really *do* love it when you blush." She smiled, a happy contented smile that spoke volumes. "This is so odd, Mulder. I mean, because of her we're together." "She was just the catalyst, Dana. It's because of love that we're together." He shook his head in wonder. "Did I really just say that? 'It's because of love that we're together?' Damn, I'm beginning to sound like a Hallmark Card." Scully's laughing filled the room. "It's okay, Mulder. Hopefully it was only a momentary lapse." "I hope so." "You look so cute when you worry." Reaching up, she gave him a tender kiss. "I will love you no matter how cheesy you are." "Thanks, Scully. Love you too." "You better." She kissed him again. "Can we get past this and onto more pressing matters?" "I would have to concur." * * * * * THE END (It damn well better be)