"What We Need Now is Trust, Part Six"

The bounty hunter grabbed Mulder from behind before he could reach the handle of the drawer. As he struggled, the bounty hunter growled in his ear, "Naughty, hybrid. Did you think we would let you go? The rebels were fools to let you live. . ." The bounty hunter began to drag Mulder out the door, intent on returning him to the colonist ship hiding nearby.

Before they could reach the doorway, Alex slammed into the bounty hunter, knocking nearly knocking Mulder out of the hunter's grasp. Mulder wrenched himself free.

"Run, Fox! Go!"

The hunter turned and began to slam Alex into the wall, far too strong for Alex to regain control. Mulder raced back to the drawer and wrenched out the stiletto, he then turned back and stabbed the alien in the back of the neck. The hunter froze and then fell to the ground. Alex slumped down on to the floor once more, a red trail of blood smearing under his head as he slid.

Mulder panted as he watched the hunter dissolve into a hissing pile of green fluid. He reached over the dissolving body to shove Alex's legs away from the toxic blood. When the alien was no more than a green stain on the floor Mulder stepped over it and knelt next to his unconscious lover. Alex's hair was bloody and his skin slick with sweat as Mulder stroked his face and then opened Alex's eyelids. One pupil was dilated and the other a pinpoint. Severe concussion. Mulder felt the panic surging over him, but then, as he gazed at Alex's face, he felt a slow warmth grow within him.

His panic receded as a surreal calmness came over him, his hands cradled Alex's head and he could 'feel' the energy flow from him and into Alex. It lasted only a moment, but time seemed to stretch out for Mulder and he could sense the damage being repaired. As suddenly as it came over him, it left. Time resumed its reality on Fox as he frantically looked at Alex's face again. His lover's eyes were closed, so he forced the eyelids up again, as he did so Alex groaned and pushed Fox's hands away.

"Ooohh. . . W-what happened?" Alex's eyes then snapped open and he tried to sit up as Fox tried to keep him still. "Fox?! The hunter..." Alex frantically searched the room with his eyes, still struggling in Fox's grasp.

"Alex! Stay still. He's dead. You had a severe concussion. Don't thrash around like that."

Alex's eyes fell on the green stain next to them. He noted the stiletto laying next to it and the red blood on his shirt last. At the sight of blood he looked up at Fox and finally managed to break free enough to sit up and grasp Fox's shoulders.

"What happened?! Are you hurt? Where are you hurt?" His hands roamed over Fox's head and chest looking for the source of the blood.

"Alex! Alex, if you just calm down...I told you. 'You' were hurt. That's your blood, the bastard beat your head on the wall over and over..." Fox started sobbing, the reality of what had happened finally making him break down.

Alex reflexively pulled his distraught lover into his arms and rubbed his back whispering reassurances. When Fox calmed down enough for them to stand up, each holding on to the other for dear life, Alex turned and looked at the blood smearing down the wall. Fox wasn't overreacting. He could remember the hunter hitting him and flying into the wall, then he'd seen the alien grab Mulder as his lover tried to reach their weapon stash. He'd tried to pull the hunter off Mulder to give him a chance. He'd told him to run, but it seemed Mulder had been able to save them both. He didn't really remember being smashed into the wall over and over. After her grabbed the hunter from behind it was all a blur. But if he was hurt so badly, why was he all right now? The headache he'd had at waking was fading fast. Puzzled he asked Fox.

"You were lying there, unconscious. I saw the blood and panicked. Your pupils showed a severe concussion and...somehow...I just felt this 'calm' take over me and I healed you." Fox waited for Alex to doubt him. Instead Alex looked into his eyes and said, "I guess you are more of a hybrid then we thought. You have the morphs' capabilities to heal, then."

Mulder was shocked; he hadn't expected such easy acceptance. He remembered what he'd always appreciated in Alex when they had been partners, the open mind. Alex didn't immediately dismiss his theories. He didn't always agree with him, but he didn't just dismiss him and try to force his own theory over Mulder's no matter what. Something that had always frustrated him with Scully...and Skinner...and so many others.

Alex expected Fox to be upset at the notion of having alien characteristics; instead he saw a small smile come over his lover's face. 'Guess he likes being alien.'

^No, that isn't it. I love you. That's all.

Alex smiled, uncertain why he'd suddenly deserved it, but thankful as always for Fox's love.

^ I love you, too. And I'm very grateful for your healing abilities on top of the telepathy. Maybe later we could see if you have the morphing ability, too?

Mulder smiled, nothing like a lover that thought like you did at times. Still, the idea of his body morphing was a bit scary. He wasn't ready to try anything yet.

"Yes, but...not now. Alex, what if they send another hunter? His ship must be nearby for him to try to grab me like this." Mulder felt the panic return, not thinking about what he might have gleaned from the hunter's thoughts. All he could focus on was the new threat. The colonists weren't gone, then. They had risked coming back to Earth; the rebels would most likely be back, too. It wasn't safe...

Alex sighed and pulled Mulder with him as he sank onto their bed to stare at the green stain. "I know. This very bad news. Someone must have seen you in D.C. and got word to the colonists. That means the war is still strong. And the rebels...we need to get far away from here. I don't think we can wait even to say goodbye to anyone. We should pack up and go now. Grab a bag, I'll go make some arrangements."

They packed up the SUV as quickly and stealthily as possible that night. They pulled out of the driveway and headed west. Alex made sure they weren't followed and then had them change cars twice. Both stolen from parking lots. Mulder just bit his lip and decided that the sometimes, personal safety just had to come first. Finally they bought another car with cash. A jeep that wasn't all that new but seemed in good shape.

Then they headed south. Mulder had no idea where Alex's cabin was and he didn't particularly care. He just wanted to get as far away from St. Louis as possible. He regretted having to ditch their apartment and Alex's family. They had mentioned to them that they planned to do some traveling, but they hadn't told them it would be so soon. They'd covered up the green blotch on the floor with a rug and left a note that said they'd gone ahead on their trip and had no idea where they'd end up and not to expect word from them anytime soon. Alex was worried about their own situation, but in the back of his mind he hoped that his family could forgive him for leaving like this for a second time.

X*X*X

October 14, 2000
Saturday
2:15 p.m.

They drove in shifts. When it was Mulder's turn the first time, Alex asked him if he wanted to know exactly where they were going.

"That's okay. Just tell me what highways and exits to take for now." Mulder was in a state of prolonged shock. Just wanting to act without thinking too much. For he thought that if he stopped and really thought about what was happening he might have another anxiety attack. This way he just focused on the next step ahead of him.

They ate a quick meal and filled the tank at a truck stop. As they walked back to the car Alex watched his lover as he walked beside him. Fox hadn't said two words besides ordering food inside. He was running on automatic, the link silent between them.

Alex was worried about him, but he didn't see what he could do for now. He wasn't in much better shape. He was running on adrenaline still and hadn't slept since the incident had happened. 'Incident. As if it was some little thing that occurred, Fuck, I almost lost him. The fucking colonists just won't leave him alone. God, what if the alien bastard succeeded...and the baby. God, they'd have tortured Mulder again and what would they have done to our baby?!'

Mulder looked at Alex with concern, but it was vague and his gaze dropped off of Alex and returned to the ground beneath his feet. Mulder's reactions were all vague and distanced. He seemed almost drugged. That scared Alex even more. Mulder glanced up at him again.

^ Are you okay?

^ No, I'm not okay! Nothing's okay. How can you just stand there like that? Don't you care about what's happening?!

Mulder lost his distant look suddenly, anger surfacing. "I'm trying NOT to lose it here! Of course I care! I'm fucking scared out of my fucking mind! I-"

Alex grabbed Mulder's shoulders, "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry, Fox, I didn't mean to...look I'm tired. We're both tired. Let's pull in somewhere and get some rest before we have an accident. Mulder stared back into Alex's eyes, his momentary anger fading as he realized he couldn't stay numb and survive. He needed to be all together if they were going to make it. And his anger was just a release of tension, he wasn't mad at Alex at all. He was so grateful that he was with him...and that he was okay. He nodded and then pulled Alex into a hug, not caring about any bystanders. Alex clutched him back and they walked back to the car, hands clutched firmly together.

Arriving at a small motel, Mulder went in and paid cash again. They wouldn't be short on money for awhile. They'd had a large amount set aside in anticipation of their trip. Alex was grateful they'd been ready to bolt on a moment's notice. Mulder walked out the office with the keys and Alex watched his lover ardently. 'His birthday was ruined yesterday. Mulder tried to warn me about Friday the 13th and his own bad luck on his birthdays, but I was so insistent we celebrate. I need to make it up to him...once we're settled in at the cabin. For now, we need some sleep.' Not that he wouldn't be giving Fox lots of love and attention. His lover had been through so damn much. And he was so glad to have him here, safe.

Mulder slid back into the passenger seat, "Room 15...what?" Mulder realized his lover was staring at him.

"Nothing, just thinking what I'm gonna do to you after I get some sleep..." Mulder blushed a little. He felt a thrill go through him. He hadn't thought of their interrupted 'dessert' until now. He wished they weren't so tired right now. He sent that thought along the link.

^ Patience, Lisa...it's a virtue and all...

^ Yeah? Well I'm not a saint... Mulder sent some images of his devilish thoughts about his lover.

"Stop it, babe. We're gonna drop as soon as we hit the sheets and you know it." Alex scolded as they pulled into a parking space in front of their room. Mulder snorted, but knew it was the truth. They carried their bags inside and Alex checked the room over and set their weapons in easy reach. Finally, they bolted the door and collapsed on the bed, asleep in minutes.

x*x*x

10:15 p.m.
October 14th

Alex woke up with his heart pounding. At first he was alarmed to find them not in their bedroom, then quickly remembered how they'd ended up there. He reached over for Mulder whom he could hear snoring softly beside him. Snuggling up to his sleep-warmed lover, he rested his right hand gently on Fox's stomach, feeling a slight stirring within. Mulder was now nearly 6 months pregnant. He closed his eyes, pressing his nose into the crook of Mulder's neck, he breathed deeply and enjoyed his lover's scent. "You okay?" Mulder husked, waking, but still sleepy.

"Yeah. Are you?"

"Mmmm. Still tired, but I'm hungry."

Alex chuckled. "Of course you are. So am I. How about we go see if we can find an all night burger joint?"

Mulder grinned, "Sounds good." They washed up in the shower. Taking turns since it was so tiny, then they threw on some clothes and drove around looking for a White Castle. They returned to their room with a bag of fragrant burgers and munched happily. When they were done they curled up on the bed again. After brushing their teeth, of course.

Alex slowly kissed his way down Mulder's body, pausing at the swell of his belly to lay an ear to it. Mulder ran a hand through his hair and Alex raised it to come back up and kiss his lips again. They made love slowly that night, treasuring their closeness.

x*x*x

Scully woke to an incredibly loud banging on her front door. Whipping her sheets off of her legs she grabbed her gun from her bedside table drawer and raced to the door. Peering into her peephole she found a very irate Walter Skinner glaring back at her.

"Agent Scully! Open this door!" Agent Dana K. Scully, F.B.I. and Ice Queen Renown felt a brief longing for her mother. Snapping out of it she reluctantly unbolted her door and let her bear of a boss inside her domicile.

"Get dressed, Agent Scully. And you can holster your weapon while you are at it." Scully glanced down and noticed she'd been holding it defensively, aimed at the glaring man in front of her. Knowing better than to ask why she quickly dressed and followed him out the door and presumably to a place safe from bugs.

Skinner drove them to a small motel after taking a long circuitous route with Skinner eyeballing the rear view mirror repeatedly. Finally satisfied, he pulled them into the motel parking lot and went in to get a room. Scully had raised an eyebrow to herself, but without Mulder there to appreciate it there was no point.

They entered the motel room together. Skinner searched the room and then sat in a chair, motioning for her to do the same. Scully sat down gingerly and waited for him to speak, now that she could, she noted that he had dark circles under his eyes and worry lines...something she remembered seeing after Mulder's abduction.

"Agent Scully. It's time for you to let me into the loop. I've tried to give you and Mulder space, but now I need to know what is going on."

Scully looked sharply at him, "What's happened? What do you know?"

Skinner sighed and rubbed a hand over his face, upsetting his eyeglasses. Replacing them his voice resumed, this time in a monotone.

"Mulder's apartment, the one he shared with Alex Krycek in St. Louis..." He watched Scully for a reaction, she had none, or if she did she hid it well. "... 'their' apartment was abandoned sometime yesterday evening. Both 'occupants' are listed missing by the Krycek family. There was an unusual stain found underneath a rug in the bedroom. It appeared to be some sort of green corrosive. Signs of a struggle could be discerned and there was a small streak of blood found at the scene. Someone attempted to clean it up, but apparently missed it. The blood is being analyzed, but its preliminary blood type matches Alex Krycek's. At least according to the records we have on him...they may be wrong. So now, Agent Scully, you must tell me what you know. Mulder's life is in danger."

Scully was shocked. She knew Krycek was extremely careful...and Mulder was so paranoid... And Krycek's family, how were they involved?

"Sir, how did Krycek's family...?"

"Apparently his sister-in-law, Mari Krycek felt that she and her husband should check on them. It seems that this 'Mari' is a bit 'psychic' and felt that something was wrong. They found a note that they believe is Alex's handwriting that says they were leaving for their trip early and not to expect them for a while. Alex's brother stated that they 'had' talked about a trip, but his wife insisted that it didn't 'feel' right in the room. The cops searched the bedroom and found the green stain under a rug. Now, Agent Scully, WHAT IS GOING ON?"

Scully bit her lip. She didn't want to tell him, but she was desperately worried. She had no one else she could trust to help her find the two missing men except the Lone Gunmen. She needed their resources, but Skinner could be very helpful...there was no choice, she hoped Mulder would forgive her. "Well, sir..." Thirty minutes later they both sat silent in their chairs. Scully thinking over possible leads and Skinner trying to wrap his mind around Mulder being pregnant. 'Pregnant. He's pregnant. The aliens impregnated him...with Krycek's child. Krycek. And he's been living with him in St. Louis as a lover. Met his family, carrying his child. Krycek...' Then he remembered how he'd found out about their residence in St. Louis. The blood, the green stain that meant an alien had died there...or a clone, clones died with green blood, too. What if Krycek was a clone? Scully said she'd examined Mulder and taken blood, what about Krycek? He asked Scully.

"I sewed him up from a stab wound. His blood was red, no way to fake it. He was human. The blood they found may very well be Alex Krycek's"

"A stab wound?"

"He said he was mugged. But I don't know if I believe that. Mulder seemed to accept it, though."

Skinner nodded, 'Mugged? No, he lied. And Mulder just accepted it. Mulder is not acting like himself. Not that I blame him...the aliens fucked with him badly. He's not safe. We have to find them and get Mulder away from Alex Krycek...help him regain himself. Help him with his baby. How can Mulder even think of living with Krycek...and with a child?'

Skinner drove Scully over to the Lone Gunmen, she insisted they were up to the task of finding the men if it was at all possible. Skinner decided to follow his own leads within the bureau, but of course he would do it secretly.

X*X*X

Alex went to get breakfast for the two of them. Mulder insisted he'd be fine. He had his weapons and was awake. He just wanted to take a shower and rest a little before they got back on the road. Krycek wanted to see if he could get some information on what was going on in D.C., too. After checking in with the contacts he knew he could still trust, he found a hornets nest stirring up back east. He dreaded telling Mulder.

Bringing back Krispy Kremes, orange juice and coffee (decaffeinated for Mulder, of course, no matter how the man bitched), he entered to find Mulder singing in the shower. He loved the man, but he couldn't sing...at least he didn't sing outside the shower and that was rare itself. Mulder was in a surprisingly chipper mood...considering.

^I'll be right out and you have a tin ear.

^Sorry, Lisa. I like to hear you sing. I know that when you do you're happy...and keeping the wildlife away.

Mulder sputtered under the water and finishing his shower he came out dripping despite his towel. "You're gonna pay for that one..." he said mock-menacingly.

"Oh, yeah?"

"Definitely. You have no idea how good you've got it. You should hear Scully sing sometime." Mulder shuddered, but remembered his partner singing to him in the woods that night fondly. She'd done it for him because he'd asked...even though she knew how bad she sung.

Alex cringed a little, "Speaking of Scully...I have some news you're not gonna want to hear." Mulder sighed and sat down on the bed after pulling on some sweats.

"Hit me with it..." he grabbed a donut and waited, munching on his sugary treat. Alex sat down and laid it out for him.

"Mari and Nikolai checked out our apartment Friday night...well, technically yesterday morning. They called the cops and they found the stain under the rug and a spot of blood we must've missed. They're listing us missing. My sources say Skinner found out and he's following his own investigation to find us."

Mulder stopped eating and set his donut down. "Shit. Now what? Did he tell Scully?"

"My source followed them to a motel room. She then went to the Lone Gunmen."

Mulder was so worried he failed to comment on his boss and former partner shacking up together in a sleazy motel room. Alex was a little surprised, but too focused on the problem at hand. "Mulder, we need to contact Scully, get your friends to lay off the hunt and get her to pull Skinner off the trail, too. They're just attracting attention to us. If they get lucky and find us they'll lead them right to our door."

"I know. You're right. Contact Scully, get her to call off the Gunmen and Skinner, and then tell her where to meet us."

"Fox-"

"Alex, we need her. She needs to get that surgeon of hers and the equipment to the cabin, anyway. We'll just get everything ready earlier than we planned. Alex, I'm not sure the hunter was acting under order of the colonists. It was too quick, but what I could sense from his mind...he was on another mission and was surprised to find me, he planned to take me to his ship and send me back to his superiors. I'm not sure that any others knew about me. Maybe it was a fluke. A damned unlucky one. We'll lay low and hopefully it'll blow over. It's the best we can do, right?"

Alex sighed. It was...he just didn't want to live with Scully for the next couple of months until the baby was born. There was no choice, though. They had to get Scully out of D.C. free and clear before she became a target and Fox would need a doctor available before the birth, anyway. "All right. Pack our bags. I'll make the arrangements and we'll change cars again. I'm going to take a different route to the cabin. Scully better obey my instructions. I'll have her meet me at a different location and I'll pick her up and bring her to the cabin...make sure she isn't followed."

Mulder nodded. With a plan in mind he brightened up a little and finished his donut with a flourish and then rooted around in the box for another. They ate in silence until Mulder 'accidentally' picked up Alex's coffee instead. "Uh, uh, uh! That's mine, Lisa." He pulled the cup out of his lover's grasp and wagged a finger at him.

Mulder pouted. Alex just smiled and gulped the rest of the coffee down and set it down with a contented sigh. "Aaaahhh. That was good." Mulder continued to pout for a moment and then lunged.

Landing in Alex's lap, he ignored his lover's "oof!" and proceeded to kiss him thoroughly. "mmmmm..." Mulder groaned happily. He pulled back and smacked his lips. "You're right, it 'was' good." Alex laughed and pulled his lover back in for another kiss.

Ending it, Alex leaned back regretfully. "I've gotta go make those arrangements. Pack for us?" Mulder sighed and stood up. "All right. But we'll continue this later."

"Of course, Lisa. Lots of time for that later..."

X*X*X

Last transmission of Hunter 2341-X received:

Hybrid found. Human designation: Fox William Mulder, reported lost on transport 436 to rebel infestation on 5463.782.

Hybrid status: stage 3, impregnation complete. Status of gestation, unknown. Will apprehend hybrid and assess status of both subjects (hybrid and unborn subject) immediately.

Transmission 4368T completed. End transmission.

Transmission received.

No response from Hunter 2341-X on all frequencies.

Hunters 2346-X, 3211-X, and 5671-X transmitted following data:

Hybrid found. Location last received from Hunter 2341-X. Hybrid human designation: Fox William Mulder, reported lost on transport 436 to rebel infestation on 5463.782.

Hybrid's last known status: stage 3, impregnation complete. Status of gestation, unknown.

Orders: Apprehend hybrid and assess status of both subjects (hybrid and unborn subject) immediately.

Termination of hybrid NOT acceptable, Mandatory Status: alive.

Unborn subject Preferred Status: alive. If unborn subject deceased, transport remains for examination and assessment.

Transmission 4370T completed. End Transmission.

X*X*X

"What We Need Now is Trust, Part Seven"

Mulder lay in the lounge chair outside, dozing peacefully, one hand on his belly. A soft breeze stirred through the surrounding trees as Alex stepped out on the back patio to join his lover. He carried two ice teas and set Mulder's down on the table next to him. Pulling another lounge chair closer to Fox, he lay down next to his lover and smiled to himself. Mulder seemed far more relaxed than he had in awhile. The two had finally gotten the place cleaned up and settled in.

It had taken a couple of days to clean up the dust and get the electric and phone set up. They'd gone into town for groceries and stocked up on all of the foods Mulder had been craving lately: frozen pizzas, pretzels, butter pecan ice cream, and of course, lots of sunflower seeds. Alex had bought some healthier food items as well to keep his lover from suffering from scurvy. Mulder would eat the fruit and vegetables so long as he could still have his ice tea and sunflower seeds every evening. The sounds of cracking shells had annoyed Alex at first, but soon drifted into the usual background noise he listened to every night as they sat outside or watched TV.

Fox had been really surprised to see his cabin. It wasn't so much a cabin as a large two-story house in the middle of nowhere. Surrounded by trees and wildlife, it was peaceful and quiet. The stars were bright and the nights quiet, the only sound was a nearby owl. Alex liked the seclusion, but more importantly, the house had large airy rooms and many windows. He hadn't had a claustrophobic incident once since arriving. And if he felt a little closed in, he just stepped outside for a breath of fresh air.

The isolated location was perfect for hiding away from prying eyes, aliens, and for Mulder's delivery. Scully would soon be meeting Alex at a rendezvous point with a trusted surgeon and the necessary equipment. There was a stable house out back that had been modernized not too long ago into a guesthouse. Alex planned to clean that out next to have it ready for their guests.

Of course, the isolation was also good for less noble deeds as well. Alex smiled slyly, eyeing his lover. He wondered how much more rest Fox needed...

^I can hear you lust from over here. I think I've rested enough...^ Mulder's eyes opened and he smiled back. Alex's sly grin had a dangerous tilt to it. His eyes were a smoldering dark green. His lover slowly climbed over his chair and straddling Mulder's legs, he crouched over him. Not letting any weight fall on his pregnant lover, he leaned in for a passionate kiss. Mulder responded with equal passion as he moaned and pulled Alex closer. The telephone rang.

"Damn it. How does she DO that?!" Alex huffed and climbed down from the chair to stomp into the house. Scully was the only one who had their number. She must be ready to meet them. Mulder smiled after his lover, shaking his head ruefully.

Alex and Fox hurried to clean up the guesthouse that night. The next day they drove to the meeting point together in their truck. Alex didn't feel it safe to leave Mulder alone.

The rendezvous was four hours away. Alex was taking no chances. He pulled up to the motel room they'd agreed upon and Mulder stayed in the truck while Alex knocked on the door. Scully answered and seemed relieved to see Krycek. She looked out to the truck and saw Mulder. Grinning she waved them in and Mulder climbed out of the truck and joined them inside.

The surgeon was a soft-spoken man of Indian descent. His accent was barely noticeable as he introduced himself as Dr. Reddy and shook hands with Mulder, and he seemed fairly unthreatening. Alex still glared at the man as he grilled him and Scully on his abilities, background, and all contact with strangers the last several weeks. Finally, mollified by not finding an excuse to turn the two away, Alex gestured for them to get their gear and head to the house.

"Wait a second, Kry- Alex. We have a lot of equipment, we rented a moving van." Scully said, shrugging into her jacket.

Alex glared at the offending van and shook his head. How were they supposed to stay inconspicuous with that big thing? Scully assured him that they used another name and posed as a couple moving in nearby.

Pulling up to the house, Scully, Alex and the young doctor unloaded and set up the equipment in the guesthouse. Mulder pouted when asked to go inside and serve the takeout they had bought on the way home, but went inside and dished out the pasta and salad. Afterwards, Scully and Dr. Reddy took Mulder into their 'lab/office' and gave him an examination.

Mulder submitted meekly, but glared at Alex when he seemed to be glaring at the young doctor. Alex ignored his lover and watched every move the man made with scrutiny. The doctor seemed a little nervous, but was completely professional and thorough. He and Scully set up the sonogram once more and Alex slipped his hand into Mulder's as they watched the screen. The fetus was larger and more defined at 6 and a half months. Able to see limbs and a head the two men blinked back tears, neither wanting to break down. Scully even printed out a picture of the baby for them to keep. Cleaning up Mulder's belly from goo she then asked them if they wanted to know the sex.

Both men nodded eagerly and Scully smiled, "A girl." They sat stunned, still holding hands. Mulder finally lost his battle and a single tear ran down his cheek. Alex had to struggle mightily, but managed to keep his eyes from betraying him. Unfortunately, his voice was a traitor and broke when he murmured, "A girl, Fox. Can you believe it?" Mulder smiled, wiping away the tear and then tapping his lover's nose.

"Nope. Still in shock. So how do you raise a girl? I was having a hard enough time imagining a son... I- I used to baby-sit Samantha. I held her as a baby and even helped change her diapers. But-" his voice broke and he sobbed quietly, clutching Alex's hand.

Alex clenched his hand back and spoke firmly, but gently, "You're going to be a great dad. You're going to spoil her rotten and she'll probably end up being your little princess... I bet I end up being the bad guy..." Mulder chuckled weakly. "Oooh, but you're so good at it. No, I think you're the one that's gonna spoil her. And probably teach her out to pick locks at 3."

Alex smirked, "Hey, it's a useful trade. So, you ready face them again?" Mulder wiped his face roughly and nodded sitting up. He needed a little help getting down the table with some dignity. Before they left the room, though, Mulder pulled him into a quick rough kiss. "I love you." Alex was dazed at the kiss and pulled him back in for another one. "Ditto."

xxx

Two weeks later, Krycek had to leave for some supplies. With four adults living together and one of them pregnant, groceries went fast. The two doctors spent a great deal of time puttering around with their little vials of Mulder's blood and microscope. If Mulder was in the vicinity they'd start coming up with new things to test him with. Measuring his belly, listening with their stethoscopes, asking him embarrassing questions. Mulder ended up skulking around the main house and avoiding the guesthouse like the plague.

Alex left the house after reminding them to be on guard. As he pulled away from the house he saw Mulder lift a curtain and wave, one hand shoving a sunflower seed in his mouth.

'Ah, don't forget sunflower seeds. Subtle, Mulder...' Alex grinned and waved back as he shifted gears and drove away.

xxx

Two hours later, Alex's truck pulled up and Mulder kept his hand on his gun until he saw his lover coming in with bags of groceries. Mulder grabbed a bag from his hands and led the way to the kitchen. He pulled groceries out of the bags and flicked his eyes at his lover whom had wondered out of the kitchen area and into the living room without a word.

Alex was behaving a little strangely. He stalked around the house, his eyes seeming to search it and then turning back to pierce Mulder's. Did Alex want to know if they were alone?

"They're in the guesthouse puttering around with their junk. What's wrong?"

Alex shook his head, "Nothing..." He then began to move towards him, like he was hunting prey.

Mulder was feeling a bit nervous, but tried to reassure himself, '...it's just a game. He sometimes acts like this when he's horny.' But something was bugging him. The baby kicked from within. A nagging feeling tugged on the back of his mind. He had no time to think, however, as Alex suddenly reached him and began to sniff him. Mulder tilted his head back as Alex moved in closer and gripped Mulder's neck gently, but firmly and breathed in deeply. He then pulled Mulder's face back down and claimed his mouth.

'See? He's just horny. I'm being too jumpy...' Alex's kiss was deep and Mulder was feeling uncomfortable at the intensity. The baby's movements became more forceful as it kicked in earnest.

Mulder struggled to end the kiss, needing air. Alex wouldn't stop. Finally, becoming desperate and panicked Mulder clawed at his lover's body, struggling to push him away. Alex broke the kiss roughly and then grabbed Mulder's shoulders and slammed him back into the wall. Mulder frantically sucked in a breath, noting that the baby's movements stilled, He looked into Alex's eyes...only they weren't. Alex morphed into a bounty hunter and Mulder knew that he was dead...

xxx

Hunter 5671-X watched as the hybrid began showing signs of consciousness. He waited for it to open its eyes before he turned on the ship's inner lights. The hybrid squeezed its eyes shut from the sudden light and struggled in its bonds. The hunter watched dispassionately. He was uninterested in its emotional responses, but curious in its physical. He knew he must complete his mission and return the hybrid to his masters soon, but for now he wished to see for himself how well built the hybrid was.

His masters, the green skinned, black oil-filled aliens were the true colonists. Their race wanted earth as they sought all planets and races for their own purposes. They were conquerors, completely secure in their knowledge that they were superior to all other life forms. And they were. The hunters knew this, which was why they obeyed their orders. The hunters were of a species that the colonists found useful. Their ability to morph into numerous shapes made them perfect for their uses on earth.

The hunters were called collaborators on their own home planet. They worked with and for the enemy colonists. The rest of their planet was struggling to stop the colonists as a rebel force. The hunter despised having to kill his own people, but it was necessary to obey the colonists' demands. They had something his people needed: technologic ability to overcome the morphs' sterility.

During the original battle between the colonists and his people, the enemy unleashed a biological toxin that sterilized the morph's female citizens. Thus, they were incapable of bearing more children. The morphs continued to fight, but the colonists had an interesting proposition for those willing to listen: serve, and in return the colonists would work to correct their infertility.

Some morphs had listened; they knew that their scientists were far from an answer to their dilemma, they could never solve it in time. The colonists were more technologically advanced: they were more likely to succeed. They were also highly motivated to solve it, without a solution, the morph race would die out and there would be no more useful slaves. So hunter 5671-X and many others were working for the colonists against their own people in hopes of saving the morph race.

The morph planet itself was against the current solution of the colonists: hybridization. They refused to consider corrupting their own race with human DNA. The hunters were desperate: hybridization may not be ideal, but their race was dying. So the hunter watched the latest hybrid pull against the restraints and wondered if it was worth it. Were the colonists finally close to a solution? The hybrid was pregnant, but with a pure human's child, not a morph's. He wondered if the experiment would be successful with his own genetic material.

The rebels had been stupid to waste such a precious chance by injecting the hybrid with human genetic material. They should have continued the experiment the way it had been intended. Instead, their obtuse belief in racial purity had resulted in a useless experiment. What did it matter if the hybrid carried a human child?

These thoughts raced through the morph's head as he watched the hybrid's panic finally exhaust his strength.

Xxx

Mulder slumped against the restraints and lay on the cold metal table. It was similar to the one on the first ship he'd been on. The bright light was too harsh for his eyes and they watered even after he closed them. He was cold, his clothes were gone. He felt the child stir within him and a new wave of panic threatened him.

'Oh, god. What am I going to do? The child...I have to protect it. Oh, god, Alex where are you?' When the morph had been posing at Alex the link had been strangely quiet. Not broken, but numbed...that was what had itched at his conscious. He hadn't been overly aware of the link lately. He tried now to reach out to Alex. Nothing. Not a hint of awareness. Sheer terror surged at the thought of his lover dead. He struggled to tamp down on the fear as he realized that he likely would have felt the break in the link. It was still there, but strangely...numbed. It was the only word for it. A sound caught his attention. A rustling on his right side and a dark figure came between him and the light.

Cautiously opening his eyes slightly he flinched at the sight of the bounty hunter looming above him, its eyes dark and intense. It sniffed him once more.

^You smell good, hybrid. Interesting. The colonists may have finally had a breakthrough.^

^What do you mean?^ Mulder felt queasy at this line of thinking.

^You smell...interesting, intoxicating. Like a fertile morph... I wonder how you would smell if you weren't pregnant... Most likely even more stimulating... Smell is important to a morph. Our kind changes shape, color, size, but our smell remains the same. True to our self. You smell...familiar, but exotic...^ The morph leaned in again, its nose buried in Mulder's neck and emitted a strange sound, almost like a groan.

Mulder squeezed his eyes shut. 'Oh, god. Now what?! Alex, help me!'

The morph leaned back its expression distant once more as its lust abated. ^Your lover won't be coming. I have orders to return you to the colonists. However, I have other plans. You are the first successful hybrid. I have no intention of blindly handing you over.^ Turning around, the morph disappeared into the darkness.

Mulder shivered in the cold air, his future was in the hands of a rogue bounty hunter that seemed to delight in sniffing him. It wasn't going to turn him over to the colonists, but only because it wanted him for itself. 'God, how do I get into these messes?! And where the FUCK is Alex?!'

XXX

Alex groaned as awareness surged back to him. His head was being pounded on by a sledgehammer and the rest of his body felt little better. Struggling to open his eyes he blinked into darkness. A harsh tang of gasoline hit his nose and as he twisted his body he realized he was bound and gagged in the trunk of a car. Twisting further until he was on his right side he frantically worked at his bonds. They were tied on so tight that blood began to seep into the rope, but he was no closer to being free. An indeterminable time passed that seemed like days to Alex.

The sound of a car passing and then stopping made Alex's head jerk up. A pause and then a car door slamming and footsteps approaching made his heart speed up. He could only pray it was a rescue. He banged on the side of the trunk to get attention. The footsteps came closer and a crunch of gravel. A man's voice murmured and a metallic scraping began near the lock. The trunk door swung open and the daylight caused Alex's eyes to squint. Alex blinked and when his eyes cleared he wished they hadn't.

Skinner's face loomed above him, his face twisted in anger and disgust. "Krycek, what have you done with Mulder?!"

xxx

When Scully and Dr. Reddy had gone to investigate the sound of a car squealing away from the driveway, they'd found Mulder missing. Groceries lay scattered half out of bags, evidence that Alex had returned from his trip. Scully had gone throughout the house and found a chair shoved out of place in the living room, a lamp knocked over and a small smear of blood on the wall and floorboards.

Fearing the worst, Scully had phoned the only person she could think of for help. Skinner. He'd chartered a plane right away and helped her search the surrounding area from the house to town. Along the road was an abandoned car with out of state plates. Walking towards it they'd heard a scuffle and then loud thumps coming from the trunk. Skinner had broken the lock to reveal a very mussed and irate Alex Krycek.

Xxx

Krycek sat on the exam table of the guesthouse. It had taken being held at gunpoint to get him there and it seemed that the threat wouldn't last long enough to treat him as he argued and shoved away Scully's hands. She'd checked him for a concussion and was trying to bandage his wrists. Dr. Reddy kept to himself rather than risk Alex's wrath. Finally she just gave up and spread antibiotic cream on it and left him alone. He jumped off the table and started for the door.

Skinner grabbed him by the arm. "Hold it. Where do you think you're going? Time for you to answer some questions."

Alex jerked his arm out of his grasp and pulled out a knife so fast no one could see where it had been concealed. Scully figured with a little more time Alex would have freed himself.

With his back to a wall and his eyes on all three of them, Alex spoke tersely, "Fox has been abducted by a bounty hunter. He ran me off the road on the way back from the store. All I remember is reaching for my stiletto; I woke up in the trunk. Now I've got to find him..." He moved towards the door again.

Skinner considered pulling out his weapon and 'making' the man answer, but knew it was useless. He turned back to Scully and the doctor and waited for them to volunteer some information.

Scully fussed with the first aid kit. She seemed to be avoiding Skinner's eye. "Agent Scully..."

Scully looked up, tears in her eyes. "It's MY fault, sir. Don't blame Alex. We... well 'I' was supposed to be watching him. Mulder was hiding out in the main house and I should have gone to keep him company and to watch out for him, but I was just to busy with my own things over here and I... I didn't even know that Krycek had come back from the store, really. I didn't think to check..." Her face was twisted into a grimace and tears ran down her face. Skinner sighed and went over to pat her back awkwardly. Skinner knew what it was like to hate yourself for letting Mulder down. He'd been a mess after Mulder's abduction in Oregon. It'd been hard to face the fact that not only might he never see the man again, but it was his own fault.

"It's all right. We'll find him, agent. Mulder's a cat, he's got a couple of lives left..."

xxx

Mulder had fallen asleep despite his discomfort and fear. Exhausted, he'd slipped into the only escape available: unconsciousness. Now, he jolted awake, wondering what had woken him. The baby was still, probably asleep, he was grateful it had shown some life earlier. After being slammed into the wall by the hunter, the kicking had stopped and he'd lost consciousness after that, he'd been worried she was hurt or even dead...

Then he felt it again, what had woken him, Alex...

^...Fox?! Fox! Answer me. Lisa, please...baby. Please...^

'Oh, god!' ^Alex?! Alex, are you okay?^

Great relief and a touch of humor colored Alex's thoughts, ^Yes, 'I'm' fine, how are YOU? WHERE are you?! The hunter...^

^I don't know where he is...he left me here. But Alex, I have to get out of here. The baby, I think he might mean to kill her. Get rid of her. He says... Oh, god, he says I'm meant to be a breeder for the morphs. God, Alex... He's supposed to take me back to the colonists, but he's thinking of disobeying, he wants to try to contact his own people, some scientists to continue the experiment... But with a morph's DNA...^

Alex sat down on their bed heavily, his face pale with shock. He'd been pulling out his weapon stash as he tried to contact Mulder. A rifle was held tightly in his hand, but forgotten as he tried to comprehend the news.

He mentally kicked himself and got his emotions under a hard cool control. ^That's not going to happen. I'm coming... You must be nearby if I can 'talk' to you. Do you know where you are or how far?^

^No. But I may be able to get it from the Morph's thoughts...^

^No. That may alert him to our plans. It's important to find you before he takes off in his ship.^

^Alex, if I search his mind it may get his attention, but so far he hasn't shielded his thoughts and he doesn't seem to care what I know. If it slips out... I think he's waiting for a response from a group of renegade morph scientists that are working on their own hybrid project here on Earth. He may not leave for a while...^

^Good. Wait. Listen. I'm going to be looking, maybe if I get really close-^ The link was not broken, but muted as Mulder stifled it when he heard a rustling nearby.

^Good news, hybrid. You won't be returning to the colonists. You will be serving a greater purpose than you could imagine. You will be saving an entire race from extinction and if all goes well, we will be able to defeat the colonists, too. Of course, we will have use for Earth's inhabitants ourselves for DNA and hybrids, but I'm sure we can come to a better agreement with your leaders than you would have had with the colonists...

But for now, we must terminate your pregnancy to facilitate the start our great experiment. The hunter loomed over Mulder's belly; a metal tool glinted in the bright light as he raised it over Mulder.

Alex's voice screamed in Mulder's head, ^NOOOOOOO!!!!^

"What We Need Now is Trust, Part Eight"

^Good news, hybrid. You won't be returning to the colonists. You will be serving a greater purpose than you could imagine. You will be saving an entire race from extinction and if all goes well, we will be able to defeat the colonists, too. Of course, we will have use for Earth's inhabitants ourselves for DNA and hybrids, but I'm sure we can come to a better agreement with your leaders than you would have had with the colonists...

But for now, we must terminate your pregnancy to facilitate the start our great experiment. The hunter loomed over Mulder's belly; a metal tool glinted in the bright light as he raised it over Mulder.

Alex's voice screamed in Mulder's head, ^NOOOOOOO!!!!^

^ Hunter 5671-X: You are violating your orders. Cease your actions immediately or face immediate termination.^

The 'voice' of another bounty hunter filled the ship's void as another hunter stepped into view.

Mulder had been wrenching on his restraints with manic strength, unfortunately he had only managed to damage his own wrists and ankles. Blood trickled down them as he froze at the sound of a new hunter. The one above him halted with the implement in his hand and slowly turned to face the new threat.

Hunter 3211-X raised his own weapon and repeated, ^Hunter 5671-X, you have violated order 4370T. You have also been witnessed collaborating with the rebel infestation. Drop your weapon and prepare for termination.^

^There is no longer any need to follow colonist orders. The hybrid is successful. He is fertile and most likely capable of mating with one of ours. We need to conduct our own experiments. The colonists cannot be allowed to have such power over us... This is our chance to free our people.^

^Irrelevant. The hybrid may or may not be compatible with our own DNA. The colonists will find out about your collaboration and it will destroy our agreement with them. You will be condemning our race to extinction. I will return the hybrid to the colonists as is my orders...^ Both hunters circled one another as they raised their weapons.

Mulder watched with dread. 'Which one should I root for? Return to the colonists or have my baby aborted immediately and be taken by a renegade hunter?'

^Fox! I'm coming, help me find you!^ It no longer mattered if the hunters sensed their link. Alex had to find his lover NOW. Mulder sent out what he hoped was a strong signal for Alex to track him. He concentrated on keeping it strong while he looked over at his wrist restraints. The blood had dried on his arms, and as he looked closely he saw the skin healing over the damage he had inflicted while struggling. His body was healing itself far more rapidly than a normal human.

The hunters lashed out with their weapons, lunging and retreating, each seeking the vulnerable spot on the base of the neck. Mulder watched reluctantly as his fate was decided. He could no longer tell which one was which. Finally, one of the hunters pinned the other and slammed his stiletto into the neck of his victim. The victor stood up and walked towards Mulder.

XXX

Alex was racing down the stairs, two at a time. Skinner and Scully appeared at the foot of the stairs. He shoved them aside roughly and was out the door before they could catch up.

"Alex! Where are you going?!" Scully shouted as she ran after him. Alex didn't bother to look back.

"Fox! He's nearby in the hunter's ship. I have to get to him! The baby!" He was heading for Skinner's car. Skinner managed to reach the car before Krycek could try to break into it.

"Give me the keys! I'm the only one that can 'hear' him!" Skinner frowned but gave him the keys, he and Scully scrambled into the car before Krycek could leave without them. Alex drove down the road at breakneck speed. Trees whipped past the window, they passed the stretch of trees until they reached a clearing. He veered off the road and onto the grass. He could feel his lover's frantic call. One of the hunters had won and was starting the ship up. As Alex braked the car and jumped out of it, a ship dropped its cloak and appeared before them. Before they could act, it swung up and away, disappearing at rapid speed.

"NO!! Fooooxxx!!" Alex fell to his knees and screamed a blood- curling cry. Scully was stunned at the sight of the ship. At Alex's cry she dropped down next to him and wrapped her arms around him, grieving with the man she'd come to realize loved Mulder as much as she did.

Skinner watched the ship with a feeling of terror and despair. He watched from a short distance away as Scully and Krycek clung to one another sobbing. He felt a terrible sense of déjà vu. Once again he had failed Mulder and the aliens had him. What kind of bastards would harm a man carrying a child like that? He watched the two forms on the grass before him for a while and decided he'd do the one thing he could do. Take charge and get them out of the open and back to their home.

He walked up behind them and rested a hand on Scully's shoulder. "Come on, Scully, let's get him back to the house. There's nothing we can do here."

Alex struggled to his feet, "No! I can't leave him-"

"Do you feel him here? Is he nearby?" Skinner asked in a low voice trying to reason with him.

"No... God, I can barely feel him. I know he's alive, but... that's all; I can't 'talk' to him. He's gone..." He stared forward, eyes unfocused, extreme misery stamped on his face.

Scully wrapped an arm around him and helped him back to the car. Returning to the house they all sat down in the living room with some coffee Dr. Reddy had prepared. The room still bore the marks of Mulder's abduction. Alex sat in shock, coffee cooling in front of him, his eyes vacant. In his head he was screaming for Fox to answer him.

Scully finally gave him a sedative to so he would sleep. The man didn't resist, didn't even seem to notice the action. He just slowly closed his eyes and slumped sideways. Scully wished she'd gotten him into the bedroom first, but they decided to let him stay on the couch, probably better than waking in the bed he's shared with his lover.

Turning off the light, Scully glanced back at the broken man and wondered if they'd ever see Mulder again.

XXX

The hunter held up a special light that revealed the mark his people had branded the hybrid with. It identified Mulder as Hybrid 1013. His people were all designated numbers; it was far more precise and efficient than the human way. He looked down at the unconscious hybrid. He'd sedated it for the initial exam he'd performed, not wanting to cause undue emotional stress on the hybrid and risk its health as well as the fetus it carried.

He was returning the hybrid to the colonists as ordered. He had understood Hunter 5671-X's actions. He found his people's dependence on colonist technology distasteful, but he also knew that it was necessary. It was far too early for an attempt at rebellion by the hunters, the colonists were still far too strong and the morphs needed time to recover from their sterility. Once the morphs were able to have children again and had a way to replenish their numbers they could then rid themselves of the colonists. But for now...

He left the hybrid in the chamber as he turned to continue his duties. He had several other missions to complete before he could return the ship to the colonists. He sent a report on the hybrid's status and barring further orders, he set course for area 43588921 in search of subject 73556 for extermination.

XXX

The Lone Gunmen were monitoring UFO sightings as usual. A sighting in South Carolina was of some interest, they sent it along to Mulder as he was in the neighborhood, his cabin was in North Carolina. They continued to follow its path as additional sightings were reported. Frohike yawned slightly; he was pulling an all-nighter as he challenged his hacking skills. He sent another e-mail to Mulder as he noted the UFO seemed to have stopped for the moment. He went back to his other computer monitor and continued typing away at his keyboard. He considered ordering a pizza...

XXX

North Carolina woods
November 15, 2000
2:30 a.m.

Krycek woke up woozy. He dimly remembered Scully hovering nearby and a small prick in his arm. He rubbed at the area and wondered why she'd- Memory surged back and he stood up with a lurch. And then, just as quickly, sat back down as a wave of dizziness halted any further movement. He waited until he felt able to stagger up the stairs and into their bedroom.

'Their' bedroom. It was empty. No lover curled up waiting for him, annoyed that he'd taken so damn long in coming to bed. No goodnight kiss often accompanied by a goodnight groping. He lay back on the bed on 'his' side. Mulder insisted on the side by the bathroom so he could climb out more and more frequently in the middle of the night. He turned his head into Mulder's pillow and let himself sob. He remembered all the times he'd laid his hand on Mulder's belly and felt the powerful kick of their daughter. They hadn't even decided on a name yet. They had agreed on Samantha as a middle name, but had yet to find a suitable first name. They'd been considering a Russian name since Mulder had picked the middle name (not that Alex had minded in the least, it was fitting, they'd both agreed it wasn't suitable for her first name, though. Too tempting for the fates, too many sad memories...)

So he lay there, wishing they'd had time to agree on a name. Was the baby dead? He didn't even know which hunter had won. He had no way of knowing if the baby was alive, he could barely feel his lover. He wondered if he would continue to feel Mulder even in this vague, distant way. Or would the link be stretched past its limit if Mulder were heading to the colonists? Would it suddenly break, never to feel Mulder again? He sank in a deep sleep, worn out, emotionally devastated, and the drug still in his system.

He was curled up on his side clutching Mulder's pillow while on top of the covers.

XXX

Two days went by. Alex exhausted himself trying to contact Fox through the link. He ate mechanically and avoided Scully and Skinner's presence when at all possible. On the third day, he broke into his lover's files and checked his e-mail for lack of anything better to do. Reading the Lone Gunmen's report he frantically picked up the phone and called them.

After much initial distrust and paranoia, Scully finally had to be called in to convince Frohike to talk to them. Byers quickly looked up the latest reports and found that the ship had moved on from the South Carolina sighting. It had been glimpsed in Florida and then Texas. Krycek slammed his fist in the wall at the knowledge that he'd possibly just missed his lover. They weren't certain that it was the same ship, but it matched their description and timing.

He ignored the pain in his fist and began packing a bag. He planned to go to the latest sighting and try to see if he could contact his lover again. Scully and Skinner packed quickly and accompanied him.

They would spend the next month traveling from one sighting to another with little luck.

XXX

Mulder passed in and out of consciousness. The hunter fed him nourishment through a tube in his forearm. His waste was taken away without letting him up. He remained in the restraints the entire time. He might have gone mad except he could still 'almost' feel Alex's presence in the link and he could still definitely feel the child kick within him. Those two feelings were all that kept him sane and hopeful.

The hunter occasionally communicated with him, but it was always brief and uninformative. He felt like the guinea pig that he was. The hunter examined him frequently and made many notes and reports to his superiors. Mulder tried to get the hunter to talk and maybe relate to him as another living being. He had no luck.

^Hybrid 1013, it is now time for your examination.^ The hunter began his series of tests, many of which were painful. The worst of which was a large thin metal probe that would be pushed into his belly. It hurt as it tore into his skin and muscle until it reached into the amnio sack and extracted small amounts of tissue. It would then be pulled out quickly and the wound left behind was not tended to. Mulder's ability to heal seemed to be growing in speed. Every time the test was performed it healed faster. That didn't make it hurt less, however.

He screamed as the Hunter thrust the probe into his belly near, but not into the child. Feeling the probe seem to suck his insides out, he then gasped loudly at the feeling of the probe being yanked back out. He panted as the muscle and skin mended itself. He had broken out in a clammy sweat despite the freezing temperature.

The hunter turned away to analyze the results. Mulder waited in dreadful anticipation for the next test. The hunter would try to force a section of Mulder's body to morph. He would focus on a hand, foot or arm, as he would pass a small device over it. It produced a wave of energy into the body part that would at first tingle, then burn as if acid were being poured into it.

The device was one used on sick or elderly morphs that needed help in changing their shapes. It was a therapeutic tool.

The morph informed him that he was attempting to see if hybrids would be able to morph at all; if they did it would increase the chance of a hybrid/morph child being able to. The first three times, nothing happened. The tingling and burning lasted for an hour after the hunter would finally give up.

On the fourth attempt, the hunter was ordering him as usual to focus on changing the shape of his hand. Mulder had focused all his pent up anger and frustration on his hand and saw it stretch for an instant. His fingers had elongated for just a second. So quickly that he thought he'd imagined it. The morph, however, had been uncharacteristically exultant.

^Excellent. You truly are a morph-hybrid. The colonists have finally succeeded.^

The hunter turned away to report his findings to his masters. Mulder stared in horrifying fascination at his hand that looked normal once more. He wondered, in a secretive shielded thought, that if he could eventually control the morphing...he might be able to slip out of his restraints.

XXX

Rural Illinois
Thanksgiving Day 2000
11:45 p.m.

Alex lay on his hard bed in bunk over the driver's seat of the RV he had rented. Scully was sleeping on the other bed down below. Dr. Reddy was snoring softly next to him. Alex was thankful that Skinner had finally been persuaded to go back to work. The three of them were cramped in the RV as it was. As Krycek thought of just how cramped it was he suddenly had to get out of the RV, claustrophobia threatening him. He climbed down as quietly as possible and shrugging into his leather jacket, he exited the vehicle to walk into the nearby woods.

They'd been traveling all day, as usual, to get to the latest sighting. They were very close to the area, but Alex had yet to 'feel' anything from his lover just as he hadn't felt anything at the last three sites. As he stumbled around in the dark he reached out once more. Nothing. He felt the panic swell again. 'Damn it, where the hell are you, Fox? Am I chasing the wrong ship? Are you even near Earth anymore? Will I ever see you or the baby again?'

He tried to focus his thoughts instead on the day ahead of him. They'd ride around in the RV tomorrow in the surrounding area. Alex would sit in the passenger seat and try to contact his lover. Just as he'd done today. Circled and circled the last sighting area. They'd finally broke for dinner at 7 and eaten cold turkey sandwiches in honor of the day. Alex could feel the food, a cold hard lump in his stomach. What the hell did he have to be thankful for?

He sat down on the cold hard ground and breathed the fresh air deeply, unable to go back into the stifling RV. As he sat there, quietly he focused on the night sounds around him. Rustling of trees in the wind, the occasional whisper of an animal in the dark. He focused on these sounds to calm himself and focus on nothing but free open sky above him and as he rested he could feel just how cold it was. The bright light above him, the feel of cold metal restraints pinning his arms and legs like a frog. The baby inside him-

Alex's eyes snapped open, 'Fox!' He could 'feel' his lover again.

^Fox! Fox, can you hear me?! Lisa!!^

A long pause. Then a sluggish, ^A-aalleeex??^

^Fox! Yes, baby, it's me. Lisa? Talk to me!^ Krycek stood up cautiously and started back to the RV, careful not to break the link. He needed to get to Scully, Fox was nearby.

^Aalllex. Where-^ Fox's voice broke off.

Alex stopped moving and focused hard, ^Lisa! Stay awake. Talk to me! ^ He could feel the cold hard table his lover laid on. The bright lights that never turned off. His lover's mind was drugged deeply and struggled to focus.

^Al- Alex, where are yoouuu?^ This thought was a wail in Alex's mind. His heart clenched as he felt the despair in Fox's voice.

^I'm here, Lisa. Very close. You have to stay awake and focus on me, baby. I'm coming!^ He prayed that were true. He reached the RV and flung the door open. Scully sat up; gun in her hand from the pillow under which she'd pulled it.

"Get up! He's here! Hurry!" Scully scrambled out of bed and into front compartment. Alex was already in the driver's seat. His eyes squeezed shut as he turned the key in the ignition. Dr. Reddy thumped down to the floor behind them, scrambling to pull on some pants and fussing with his glasses.

"Alex! Get into the passenger's seat. You need to focus on Fox!" Scully shoved him out of the seat and climbed in over him. Krycek shoved his legs over and switched seats. He struggled to focus the link again.

^Okay, baby...I'm coming. Fox?!^

^...here...I'm here...where...?^ Mulder's voice was distant and vague once more, he seemed to be succumbing to the drug once more.

^Here! Lisa, focus!^ The link was silent again. No matter how much they circled the woods or how much Alex focused, there was no further contact with Mulder.

Alex finally gave up at 5 that morning. Slumping in his seat he sobbed long and hard, swinging his fist into the dashboard over and over until Scully and the doctor grabbed it and held it until he stopped trying. Scully didn't want to give him another sedative, he needed to stay alert and drug free in case Mulder was able to contact him again.

Bundling him up in a blanket, she coaxed him into lying down on her bed in the back while she and Dr. Reddy drove to a coffee house. Reddy bought them bagels and coffee, but the food was barely touched. Failure tasted bitter on their tongues.

The next day they drove out west, Frohike had said there was a possible sighting in Kansas. Scully drove once more. She glanced over at Alex's profile. He was staring ahead at the miles that lay between him and the possibility of his lover's ship. After a while she murmured, "I'm sorry, Alex. We were so close..."

He glanced over at her, his eyes had dark purple circles under them and he was unshaven. But she also noticed that his eyes were dry and clear and he smiled faintly. "No. Don't be sorry. Now we know he's still alive and we're on the right track. We'll find him. That's something to be thankful for."

XXX

Mulder woke from the drug haze once more. He had a feeling of vague disturbance but couldn't remember why. It didn't matter; every day was disturbing on board the ship. He looked down at his swell of a stomach. He was now nearly 8 months along. The baby squirmed and kicked regularly.

He'd tried to make his hand change shape repeatedly, but without the morph's device he had no effect on it. His arms and legs were so weak now that even if he did manage to get out of the restraints he wouldn't get far.

He dropped his head back on the table. Eyes closed against the harsh light once more. The hunter was gone again. Every time the ship stopped he'd disappear for a while. Sometimes days. It was impossible to know without any way of telling time and the hunter always drugged him before he left. He wondered where they were now. He decided to go back to the one thing that could console him, dreaming of Alex and their little girl playing in their backyard at home...

XXX

December 10, 2000
Sunday
Somewhere in the Middle of Nebraska

Kansas had been as fruitless as all the other sites had been before Illinois. Alex wouldn't give up, though. Especially now that he knew Mulder was just out of his reach. He wasn't going to quit until he knew for sure that Mulder was gone from Earth or dead.

Now they were heading north. The ship was seen in the northern states, skipping from one to another. Byers had informed them that MUFON and other UFO groups were predicting it was going to head outside of the States soon. Probably Canada. Alex was thinking that he was running out of time. How much longer before the ship left Earth?

That was why HE was driving now. He had shut Scully up with a cold glare as he pushed the RV to its limits. So far they'd been lucky around the cops. Alex had managed to spot them and slow down until outside their radar and then urge the vehicle faster. They'd also been lucky with unseasonably warm weather, but that had changed today, the temperature had dropped rapidly. By evening there was freezing rain and the roads became icy.

Scully managed to convince Krycek that it was too dangerous to be traveling with the RV anymore. They rented a truck with snow tires and loaded up with heavy winter coats and were once more on the road. Dr. Reddy stayed with the RV in Nebraska while they continued north.

December 11, 2000
Monday
Fargo
7:45 p.m.

Exhausted, the two entered the motel room they were sharing. Scully plopped down on her bed with a contented sigh. Alex closed the door behind him and bolted it. He turned the heat up before removing his coat. Brushing off the snow from his pants he sat down and untied his boots. He was worn out, completely. They'd reach the site tomorrow. He wanted to go that evening, but it was snowing hard and the forecasters predicted it'd stop later tonight and be clear tomorrow.

Scully had shrugged out of her coat and was burrowing into the covers, fully clothed. Alex smiled slightly and went to clean up. Turning the shower on hot to warm up the water, he turned to face the man in the mirror. Shit, was that him? He looked like a stranger. Lines permanently creased his forehead, dark circles under his eyes. He looked pale and exhausted. He was in desperate need of a shave. Stepping into the shower he luxuriated in the hot water pounding on him. His travel weary muscles loosened ever so slightly. He shaved and brushed his teeth, knowing he'd never take the time for it in the morning. Pulling on his sweats he climbed into bed, asleep instantly. His dreams full of Fox, strapped to a metal table, crying out to him.

December 12th
East of Fargo
6:30 a.m.

Morning came; thankfully the sky was clear and the sun bright. The roads were a little icy, but not bad. Alex and Scully made for the latest site with good time. Alex was in the passenger seat, eyes closed, seeking... ^Alex.^

Krycek's eyes snapped open, "Mulder!" Scully pulled them to the side of the road and stopped.

^Alex?...^

^Fox. I'm here. Where are you?^ he struggled to stay calm.

^Here. I don't know...^ Mulder sent out the same signal as before. Alex felt extremely close to his lover. They exited the car and walked into the snow covered clearing. They both held stilettos. No guns, they were worthless right now. Alex carried a pack on his back. They trudged through the snow that was thankfully only just past their ankles.

Alex kept a hand before him, even though the area before him seemed to be empty. He was rewarded with when his hand met cold hard metal. The ship was cloaked, invisible. Now what?

^Fox, I've found the ship, I'm here. I don't know how to get in, though. Help me.^

Mulder lay on the table and frowned, how was he supposed to help?! He sent the thought along to his dense lover.

^I don't know... Can you open the door with your mind?^

^Of all the bone-headed questions! You moron! If I could open the fucking door I would have gotten out myself!!^ panic gave Mulder a burst of anger and desperation. He pulled on the restraints futilely.

^I'm sorry! I'm sorry. But I don't know how...^ Alex froze as the bounty hunter appeared from the woods. He was covered in bright red blood. Back from his killing spree. The hunter stopped at the sight of the two humans near his ship. Alex clenched his weapon tighter. He stepped away from Scully and towards the hunter.

Mulder saw this in his lover's mind and stopped tugging on the restraints, he focused on one hand and with all his fear, determination and anger, he FOCUSED. Nothing. And then... his fingers lengthened...his wrists narrowed. He pulled and pulled until the wrist squeezed through the metal band, scraped raw and bleeding slightly. Gasping he took no time to celebrate as he focused on the other hand.

XXX

Alex circled wearily. Hunters were extremely strong, hard to kill. He shrugged out of his pack and tossed it aside. He shifted to the balls of his feet. This was going to be even harder on the snow- covered ground.

The hunter showed no real expression, he didn't even reach for a weapon himself. They circled. The hunter finally lunged for the human and Alex ducked and whipping around he stabbed with his stiletto while the alien was still bent forward. He missed narrowly as the alien snapped back up and flung his arm, hitting Alex in the side and sending him flying. Scully took a step forward.

"No! Don't. Just stay there." Alex climbed back to his feet winded, but weapon ready. They circled again.

XXX

Mulder pulled his left foot out of the restraints and wiped off the blood. His skin healed rapidly and he was able to focus on the last restraint. He focused hard, his strength waning. The right foot came free with more difficulty. Halfway through the restraint he lost his strength and the foot returned to normal. Panicked and in great pain he kicked and PULLED and the foot came through, but was torn up. HE lay back panting, the child thrashed within him agitated. He'd had difficulty even reaching his foot with the child in the way. He lay there waiting for his foot to heal enough for him to move it.

XXX

Alex was losing. The hunter was far too strong and Krycek was greatly disadvantaged with only being able to strike at the back of its neck. Sensing that the hybrid was escaping, the hunter snapped the arm he gripped backwards. The human screamed in pain and the hunter threw the male into the female human, freeing himself to go back to his ship. He palmed the door open and entered the lab area. The hybrid was gone. The steel exam table laid empty, blood smeared on the restraints and a puddle of blood on the foot of the table. He noticed the blood trailed away from the table. He followed the trail closely. The hybrid was weak and tired. His inaction for the last month and his advanced state of pregnancy made it incapable of defending itself. He followed the trail with no great sense of urgency or anxiety. The hybrid was here, close, he could sense it.

He examined the corridor that the blood led to. It stopped halfway down. The hybrid had healed. He stopped to sniff the air. The hybrid's scent would reveal it.

XXX

"What We Need Now is Trust, Part Nine"

Scully was pinned underneath Alex's weight. She grunted as she tried to move out from under him. She was careful not to shove him off of her, but he still screamed in pain when she moved his arm accidentally. "Sorry...sorry..." She muttered and finally slid free. She laid him down carefully; he curled up around his arm.

She knelt next to him to look at it. His left arm was bent at an unnatural angle, blood seeped from the wound and she could glimpse bone. His face was deathly white and his eyes were squeezed shut. "Alex?..." He opened his eyes and looked at her. "Scu- Scully, where...?" She looked up and around them looking for the hunter. "I don- wait, the ship...I can see it! There's a door...it's open!"

Krycek made an abortive attempt to move, "Aaaugh! Scully! Go! Fox..." Scully climbed to her feet and as quickly as she could, she ran through the snow to the ship. Alex watched as she disappeared inside. He tried to move again, a lightning rod of pain lanced up his arm and he passed out cold on the snowy ground.

XXX

Mulder limped through a long dark corridor. It was so cold. The floor was freezing beneath his bare feet and the metal walls he braced himself on leached their iciness into his naked body. He wondered if the hunter had kept his clothing he'd been abducted in? Not likely.

He was desperate to find his way out. Alex's fight wasn't going well and Scully wasn't going to fare any better. He had sensed when the morph had left the fight to come in and hunt him.

He tried to sense Alex. He had felt a terrible pain rip through his lover's body and then the link had been silent. He tried again, nothing. 'Shit, Alex, you better not be dead! I'll kill you!'

^He's not dead...yet. If you cooperate and come with me I'll spare him.^

Mulder froze; glancing around he realized that the sound had been in his mind and that the hunter was only bargaining because he couldn't find him.

^That is only temporary. I will find you. If you do not come now I will kill your lover and the female.^

Mulder shielded his mind as best he could and hid deeper in the ship. The morph would kill Alex and Scully anyway. His best bet was to try to escape and help them. He stepped into another empty room.

XXX

Scully entered the ship with her stiletto ready. She desperately wanted to pull out her gun, but knew it was useless in defense. The ship was cold and dark. There was an alien smell that made her nose itch slightly. She walked down a long dark corridor. There were doorways, but they either led to empty rooms or refused to open. Minutes ticked by, but they felt like hours. She had a creepy sensation on the back of her neck. Once, she was positive that someone was behind her watching her. But when she glanced back, the passageway was empty behind her. She continued to walk; she dithered about whether or not to call out to Mulder.

She noticed light coming from a room nearby and cautiously entered it. It was bright...very bright. The white light shown down on a gleaming metal table with restraints on each corner. The table, restraints and floor were smeared with red blood. She felt her stomach churn at the sight. 'Mulder.'

She was startled to hear an answer. ^Scully?^ She whirled around looking for her partner. "Mulder?!"

^Shhh. He'll hear you. Just think to me. I'm coming back to the room you are in. Stay there.^

She felt exposed standing in the middle of the bright room like that, so she tucked herself into a darkened corner and waited. Footsteps neared, she turned and saw the hunter pass by the doorway and continue down the corridor. She held her breath. She waited a moment and then saw Mulder for the first time in a month. He was naked.

She focused her eyes on his face; he looked wonderful and horrible at the same time. Wonderful that it was Mulder, whole and still pregnant. Horrible that he looked so pale, thin, and scared. His time away had taken a heavy toll on him. She wanted to bundle him up in a blanket and feed him soup.

^That sounds good. Can we go?^

She smiled and couldn't resist a quick hug before they turned to make their way out of the ship. Halfway there they were halted by the bounty hunter that stepped out of the darkness.

^I could smell you, hybrid. It is almost time for the birth. Can you feel it? We will be leaving now for the colonists. I have finished my errands here on Earth. The ship is ready.^ The hunter stepped close. Mulder shivered and took a step back, pulling Scully with him. Scully tried to get out of his grasp and raise her weapon.

^No! Scully, you can't get him from here... Don't!^ He tried to put himself in between her and the hunter. He knew the hunter would kill her.

She was tugging her arm out of his grasp when the hunter suddenly froze, then collapsed in heap and fizzled away to a green stain at their feet. Alex stood before them, his left arm bound to his chest and his right hand held a green stained stiletto. He smiled at the sight of Mulder, but then swayed on his feet and would have fallen if Fox and Scully hadn't caught him. Alex regained his balance and with one arm he pulled his lover into a desperate embrace.

"Oh, god. Fox! I thought... I thought I'd never..." Mulder held him as close as he could with the belly between them. Alex stepped back and looked down at it. He put his hand on Fox's belly and felt the child kick. He looked up still smiling, tears running down his face. Mulder pulled him into a hug again, but he was stopped when Alex grunted in pain.

Fox pushed his lover back slightly and looked at the blood on Alex's shirt. "Let me see it."

"Wait, put on some clothes first, you're giving Scully an eyeful." Alex teased. Mulder was shivering so much that Alex wanted his lover to be warm. He pulled off his pack he'd brought gave it to Scully who pulled out the extra large coveralls and boots they'd brought for Mulder. They helped him into the warm protective clothing. Mulder felt almost human covered up once more.

Mulder reached for Alex's arm, but the ship shuddered. The three glanced around fearfully. The ship shuddered once more and started to rise, they could see the ground slowly give way through the open hatch. Wordlessly they scrambled out the door and down to the ground before the ship had risen more than a couple of feet. Mulder landed on his side, arms wrapped protectively around his belly. Scully and Alex helped him to his feet as they watched the ship rise above the trees and then zip away in the blink of an eye.

Scully watched perplexed. "What...?"

Mulder smiled grimly at her. "Auto-pilot. A minute longer and we'd be stuck with a one-way ticket to the colonists."

The three started to make their way back to the truck waiting for them on the road. Mulder's strength was giving out by then. Adrenaline had subsided and he could feel the past month of inaction hampering him as they trudged through the snow. He grudgingly put an arm around Scully and Alex's shoulders as they helped him to the truck.

Scully climbed in the driver's side and warmed up the engine. Mulder was wedged in the center so he was able to turn and handle Alex's left arm easily. He pulled off the makeshift sling and examined the damage. It looked grisly; Alex blanched and turned his face away from the sight.

Mulder worried for a moment that he wouldn't be able to heal it, but he soon felt the odd calmness come over him and the bones knitted together, muscles mended, and the finally the skin healed over the wound, pink and new.

"All better. Does it 'feel' better?" He asked his lover who still had his face turned away. Alex's nodded his head, but still wouldn't look back.

Scully glanced at them more than a little confused. ^Tunguska. He lost his left arm there. They cut the flesh and muscle and snapped the bone to amputate it.^

Scully looked at Mulder round-eyed before turning her attention to the road. 'But how...?'

^The rebels healed it only recently, within the last year or so...^ She nodded and focused on the road again. Mulder wondered slightly if she believed it. If she didn't believe in aliens by now he'd have to shoot her, he thought dryly.

Then he chastised himself, believer or not she and Alex had just saved his life. He gave her a little half hug, not wanting to disturb her driving. She looked over at him affectionately and smiled before looking at the road again. It was icy and she needed to be careful. Mulder then leaned back and sighed heavily. Alex had gotten a hold on himself and leaned over to kiss Fox on the cheek. Mulder nuzzled back and Alex wrapped his newly healed arm around his lover's back.

They were safe once more.

XXX

They drove to the motel they'd been in just the night before. Scully had gotten them two rooms this time. Mulder and Alex had a room with a king sized bed. Not that they'd be doing anything more than sleeping on it together. Once back at the motel, Scully wanted to exam Mulder.

"Scully..." Mulder whined, "...can I at least eat first?" She threw her hands up and went to the bags they'd brought from the diner. She pulled out some soup and a spoon. He sniffed at it appreciatively and dug in.

Alex and Scully both watched him. They were so happy to hear him complain about medical treatment again. Mulder glanced up from his soup with an eyebrow raised and they quickly hid their grins in their own soup cups. Finishing, Scully handed Mulder his protein shake and jello for dessert. After she'd found out he hadn't had solid food in a month she'd insisted on a slow introduction of them to his system.

After 'dinner' Scully motioned for him to lie down and let her check him over. He reluctantly let her examine him, but only sitting up on the bed with Alex's hand firmly clutched in his left hand.

He had removed his shirt and as Scully listened to his heart and lungs Alex took a good look at his lover. There were no marks or scars, but Mulder was so thin. Only the belly was still round and full. His chest and arms were almost as thin as he'd been the last time he was abducted. Alex squeezed Fox's hand.

^You're a bit scrawny yourself, Alex. You haven't been taking care of yourself, have you?^ Mulder looked pointedly at Alex's dark circles under his eyes and his scruffy chin.

Alex smiled at the admonishment. ^Guess we'll just have to take care of each other then, hmm?^

Scully motioned for Mulder to lie down; he shook his head, not looking her in the eye. "Mulder, I need you to lean back so I can listen to the baby and examine you."

Mulder sat rigidly, unresponsive.

Alex scooted back in the bed; shoving a pillow behind his back he tugged Mulder back to lie against him. Mulder hesitated, but then cooperated, swinging his long legs up onto the bed. He still held himself stiffly, but squeezed Alex's hand in thanks.

She pronounced both he and the child all right as far as she could tell without proper equipment and blood tests. They would do those back home. Dr. Reddy was set to meet them en route with the RV and travel the rest of the way with them.

Scully yawned widely and leaned over Mulder. Kissing him on the forehead she murmured, "Good night, Mulder. I missed you."

"Missed you, too. 'Night" Mulder pulled her into a quick hug and sat back down on the bed. He was swaying slightly, but refused to lie down yet.

Alex walked her to the door and bolted it behind her. Shutting the blinds and curtains, he turned off all the lights but one and double- checked his stiletto and guns by the bed. He wanted to brush his teeth and maybe even take a shower but he noticed Mulder waiting and shucked off his jeans instead.

Dressed in boxers and a t-shirt he helped Mulder change into the same, holding his lover steady lest he topple over. "Come on, Lisa. You're exhausted, let's get some sleep." Mulder nodded tiredly, but his eyes kept darting around nervously.

Alex turned down the covers and tried to get Mulder to lay down. No luck, he climbed in and then held out his arms, Mulder crawled in and wrapped his arms around him. ^Are you okay, Lisa?^

Mulder hugged him tighter.

^...Yes.^

Alex almost asked him about his reluctance to lie down. Mulder opened his mind about the last month lying down...strapped to a table, unable to move...unable to get up...unsafe. Cold. The tests...

^You can morph?^

^Not really. Not like them. But when I HAD to, I was able to change enough to get through the restraints.^

^Sounds like a nice skill to have.^

Mulder managed a small dry chuckle, ^jealous?^

^Hell, yeah. That would have been a useful skill to have sometimes...^

Mulder's eyes were drooping, his head nodding against Alex's shoulder.

^Sleep, Lisa, you're safe here. With me.^ Alex moved a hand down to Fox's belly and rubbed it gently.

XXX

It was a long damn ride back to Alex's cabin. Scully had questioned returning back to the house since it was compromised.

Mulder answered for them, "They found us in St. Louis. They found us at the cabin. They can find us somewhere else. I'm not going to run. We've got the cabin ready for this and I want to go home." Alex smiled, 'home'..."

And home they were going. But not alone. They needed better security, reinforcements, and protection. Scully called the Lone Gunmen; they were on their way to the cabin to install the latest security system available with their own special 'improvements.' As for reinforcements, the gunmen weren't much protection; Alex didn't feel he could trust any of his associates with his home, their secret or his lover. Scully insisted and won on calling Skinner. Alex ground his teeth.

So when they returned to their little cabin in the woods, they found it crawling with three gunmen, two separate security systems, and a surly Skinner leaning on a fir tree.

XXX

December 16, 2000
North Carolina Woods
2:15 p.m.

They pulled in the long circular driveway in the RV. As they came to a stop, Skinner straightened from his position by the tree and marched over to the RV's side door. Mulder opened it and stepped down carefully, his belly making it a little challenging since he couldn't see his feet.

As he stepped away from the RV he held out his hand to Skinner for a handshake. Skinner looked down at the offered hand and then pulled a very surprised Mulder into a hug. Skinner stepped back and looked at Mulder's belly.

"So...is this why you quit, Agent Mulder? Were you afraid to ask for maternity leave?" Skinner's voice tried to be light, but seemed heavy with emotion.

Mulder stood staring at his former boss, his expression dumbstruck, Skinner was looking at him meaningfully. Then, recovering slightly he stuttered, "Uh...I-I- I didn't think I'd be eligible, sir." He finished lamely; he sought out Alex with his eyes. His lover was tossing bags and equipment onto the ground from the RV, his jaw clenched and eyes focused on his task.

Scully watched the exchange a little surprised, but not without a hefty dose of amusement. 'Uh, oh...'

Mulder flashed her a look of irritation. "Well...thank you for coming, sir...I know you must have been busy..." Skinner waved off the attempt. "I never should have left. I should have stayed and helped Scully search for you. I apologize for that. I'm here to help now."

Krycek dumped a large bag in front of him. "Good, we could use some help with our gear, then. Come on, Lisa, you could use a nap." He then all but dragged Mulder in the house, leaving Skinner glowering after them.

Scully picked up her bags and motioned for him to help her with the medical supplies, "If you could...?"

XXX

Mulder tugged his arm out of Alex's grip. "Do you mind? I don't need a nap; I'm not a child. And I don't need you marking your territory, either." He glared at his lover, but his speech was ruined by a jaw-cracking yawn.

Krycek hid his grin. "You DO need a nap. And Skinner needs to keep his hands to himself," he finished firmly. He set their bags down on the floor of their bedroom.

Mulder gave up and sank down on their bed, "God, I missed our bed. Skinner didn't mean anything and you have no reason to be jealous. Now come on and lay down with me..." He closed his eyes and was asleep.

Alex smiled down at his lover affectionately, "You're blind, Fox. But you're mine." He climbed in next to his lover and brushed a lock off Fox's forehead, he fell asleep watching him.

XXX

They woke to the smell of dinner cooking downstairs in the kitchen. Hearing the murmur of voices, Alex nudged his pregnant lover.

"Hmmph. I'm 'wake." Fox growled and shifted, his eyes still closed.

"Sure you are... Lisa, hey, Liissaaaa. We're home, lover." Alex snuggled closer to him and blew into his ear.

Fox tried to turn away, but was impeded by his stomach. "Shit, I need to use the bathroom, AGAIN." He'd already been up twice during their nap. Alex helped him to his feet, but wisely let him have his space. He straightened the bed and dragged out some clean clothes from their dresser.

He marveled at the size of his lover's clothes. It'd been quite some time since Mulder had worn his normal size. He knew Fox must be as anxious as he was to get back into them. Not that he found Mulder to be particularly big. His belly was large and his ankles were swollen, but the rest of him was still a bit too thin. He'd have to fatten him up again.

Mulder flushed the toilet and ran the faucet. Alex changed and was just putting on his shirt when arms came around his sides. Mulder couldn't really hug him, but he stroked his back and shoulders. Alex purred and leaned his head back. Turning he kissed Fox passionately. It was the first time his lover had shown an interest in him since the abduction.

The door was rapped on. "Alex, Mulder? Dinner," Scully called.

Mulder chuckled against Alex's neck. "Foooxxx... How does she DO that?!" Alex whined in frustration.

Mulder continued to chuckle and leaned back, Alex saw warm moss green eyes laughing back to him. He kissed Fox again and then nudged him towards his clothes. "Come on. Let's get dinner over with."

Fox nodded and started to undress. Alex helped him with pull up his pants and put on his socks and shoes. Mulder accepted it with more grace than usual. They headed down the stairs and into the dining room.

The Lone Gunmen congratulated Mulder awkwardly and bemoaned his refusal to let them put him on the front page of their newsletter.

The table was crowded, even with the leaf put in. Seven adults sat around the table and passed dishes around. Lasagna, salad, and garlic bread. Mulder sighed appreciatively and dug in with Scully and Alex watching approvingly.

Skinner tried not to stare, but the sight of Mulder and Krycek eating together, their hands touching and Alex refilling Mulder's drink without asking gave him a stomachache. He picked at his plate and said little during the usual chitchat amongst the table's occupants.

When the food was mostly gone the talk turned to security and the upcoming birth. Mulder pushed back his plate and stared at his glass of juice. He'd refused milk, so Scully had poured him a cup of calcium fortified orange juice. He wished he'd taken the milk, the acidy orange juice burned in his stomach. He forced himself to listen and contribute, though.

"We've set up the security systems. The codes for the main house are different for those for the guesthouse. There's also motion sensitive lights, a trip wire on the perimeter... the list was extensive. The gunmen had been busy.

Skinner spoke up on their weaponry available and he had a schedule set up for patrolling the border.

"We can't possibly keep up this level of security for good. It isn't nece-" Fox protested, but was cut off by his former boss.

"No, we can't. But it IS necessary for now. At least until the birth." Mulder flushed and excused himself from the table. Alex glared at Skinner and went after him.

There was an awkward silence, but the discussion continued around the table. Scully and Dr. Reddy discussed the possibilities surrounding the birth, trying to get that part of the conversation over without Mulder's presence.

XXX

Mulder was fussing with his bags, supposedly unpacking, but as far as Alex could see he was just making a big mess.

He walked over to Fox and stilled his hands. "Hey. You okay?"

"Fine. I just don't want to think about it, okay?"

"Yeah, but we kind of have to, you know. It's going to be scary. I'm worried about you and the baby."

"Alex, I told you and Scully I healed faster than usual on the ship, but I didn't tell you...I don't think Dr. Reddy's going to be able to keep a cut open long enough to get the baby out. He may have to keep making the incision and ..." He stopped as he saw Alex blanching.

"Never mind. Let's worry about it when it happens." Mulder stroked Alex's arms apologetically. "Come on. Let's turn in early tonight, hmm?"

XXX

North Carolina
December 22, 2000
Friday, 1:45 p.m.

Skinner crunched through the snow as he patrolled the grounds. He scanned the forest with his eyes and trudged over to the guesthouse to check on the occupants before he headed back to the main house.

Mulder was in there. Scully and Dr. Reddy were discussing his status in a fast paced medical jargon over Mulder's stomach. Mulder was lying there, eyes focused on the ceiling above him, completely disassociated with his surroundings. Neither doctor noticed, too wrapped up in their debate. Mulder's stomach was exposed, his shirt rolled up, and a monitor of some sort was fastened to his stomach. There were several machines in the room, one displaying readings from the device on his belly.

Skinner didn't know much at all about babies. His wife, Sharon, had been infertile and not particularly interested in children. He'd been so busy with his career, he'd never thought about it before, but now...now he was wondering just what he'd missed out on.

Little as he may know about babies, he DID know when another person was in need of help. He walked over to the two doctors, tapping Scully on the arm he gestured her gaze to Mulder's. She stopped mid sentence and flushed.

"Oh! Mulder, I'm sorry. I shouldn't hav- Well, you can go now if you want. Dr. Reddy and I can discuss the situation further. Mulder?"

Mulder didn't answer. Scully laid a hand on his arm and he flinched, finally breaking his stare and looking wild-eyed at her. He didn't make a sound.

Skinner decided to speak up. "Mulder? How about we let the two doctors continue their discussion and we can go to the main house for some hot chocolate. Would you two like us to bring you some back?" he glanced at the two doctors, they looked embarrassed and nodded slightly.

Mulder blinked and looked at Skinner, and then struggling, he tried to raise himself up to a sitting position. Scully moved forward, but Skinner beat her to it and helped the prone man by gripping his elbow. Mulder accepted his help with a weak smile. Once sitting, Scully unstrapped the monitor and helped him roll his shirt down.

Skinner kept his grip on his elbow and helped the pregnant man off the table and into his coat, which was lying on a chair next to them.

"Doctors." Skinner nodded in dismissal of them, both scuttled to the other room that was their makeshift laboratory.

Mulder was a little shaky on his feet, so Skinner felt well within his rights to hold on to keep his hand on Mulder's elbow and wrap his other arm around his back. They walked slowly back to the main house in silence.

Before they could enter the code, the back door swung open as Frohike let them in. "Saw you two on the monitor. You okay, Mulder?"

"Fine. Just tired. Is Alex around?" Skinner could feel his teeth grinding painfully.

"Yeah, but I think he's wrapping gifts up in your bedroom. Threatened us with bodily harm if we snooped." Frohike's face was completely serious. He wasn't going to go anywhere near the bedroom under his own volition.

Mulder grinned weakly. "Guess we better not disturb him, then. I'd like to take a nap, though..."

"Come on, then, you can sack out on my bed." Skinner steered him towards the stairs. They climbed up slowly, Mulder's unwieldy belly making it impossible to see the stairs at his feet. Reaching the top, Skinner led him to his room. The bed was made, neat as a pin. No marine would leave a bed unmade.

"Bet I could bounce a quarter off it." Mulder wryly chuckled.

Skinner darted a look at him. Had he been reading his mind again?

"Yep. Sorry, my concentration is shot. Can't seem to keep my mind shielded..." Mulder trailed off with a yawn.

"That's okay, how about we get your coat and shoes off, hmm?" He helped him out of his coat and gestured for him to sit. Getting down to his knees, he unlaced Mulder's shoes.

"You don't have to-" Another yawn interrupted the protest.

"Shut up, Mulder. There. Done. Lay down." He helped Mulder swing his legs up onto the bed. He noticed the man's ankles and feet were swollen. He sat down on the bed and massaged them gently.

Mulder was beyond complaining, he closed his eyes in bliss. "Hmmm...good..." he muttered, half asleep.

Skinner smiled to himself. There was a soft cough at the door. Looking up he saw Alex Krycek's glittering eyes narrowed at him. He wore a black sweater and jeans, his arms crossed tightly across his chest.

"Am I interrupting something?" he asked a low warning tone. Skinner raised an eyebrow, he glanced at the man on the bed. Mulder was out cold.

"He wanted a nap and you had barricaded yourself in your room."

Alex glared at him. "Well, he looks asleep now. How about we let him rest?" He stepped back, gesturing for Skinner to precede him. Skinner didn't move for a minute, then, slowly he stood and walked out. He looked back to see Krycek kiss Mulder's forehead and cover him with a blanket. He then closed the door behind them and followed Skinner down the stairs.

XXX

Skinner made hot chocolate and went to deliver it to the two in the guesthouse. Alex watched him closely. He knew what Skinner was up to. Damn if he'd let the man get any closer to his lover. He regretted letting Mulder talk him into allowing him to go to the exam alone. He'd wanted some time to himself to wrap the gifts that he'd sent away for. Mulder had taken advantage of that and said he'd be fine on his own.

Now he was lying in Skinner's bed.

He shook his head to himself. Langly and Frohike were watching him furtively as they rifled through the refrigerator. He glanced at them and they snapped their heads back to the fridge's insides. He shook his head again and reached for the kettle. He was pouring two mugs of hot chocolate when he heard the scream.

"Nononononononono! Stoooooppp! Alllleeeexxx!"

Alex dropped the kettle with a bang and ran up the steps two at a time, his gun in his hand. The Lone Gunmen raced to their security monitors to check them and also to hide.

Alex raced into Skinner's room and found his lover twisting in the bed, his face grimacing and hands clutching at the covers. Sweat poured down his lover's face, as he kept screaming "No! NO! NOOOOO!!"

Alex's heart still pounded as he glanced around the room again and holstered his weapon. He leaned down and grabbed Mulder's arms to keep them from flailing. "Mulder! Lisa! Stop it. It's okay, baby... It's just a nightmare."

Mulder kept pulling at his arms, trying to wrench himself free. His eyes had snapped open, but he wasn't seeing anything, his eyes roved around in their sockets.

"Lisa! Baby, please! Wake up!"

Alex saw movement outside below the window. Glancing down, he saw Skinner and Scully racing across the snow, guns in hand.

He tried again. "Fox! Time to wake up! Fox!!" Mulder slumped, his arms and legs slack, his eyes looking at Alex's.

"What-?" he croaked.

"Shh. It's okay. It was just a nightmare. Shhh..." He let go of Fox's arms and stroked them instead. He raised a hand and wiped off the sweat at Mulder's brow.

Skinner and Scully ran up the steps, but stopped at the sight of Alex clucking over Mulder's sweaty and disheveled form. Scully cleared her throat. Alex didn't bother looking up. "It's fine. Just a nightmare." clearly dismissing them.

Scully arched a brow, but gestured for Skinner to exit. Skinner huffed, not liking being dismissed from his own room twice in one day by Krycek.

Mulder shuddered and waved Alex's hands away from his face. "I'm fine. Sorry."

"Don't. Was it the examination? I should have come."

"No. I just... Maybe a little. I feel a little funny."

Alex's eyes widened, "Funny, how? Do you want me to get Scully?"

"No, I told her. She said it was likely just hormones or something. Actually, they were arguing over that when Skinner came. I have to pee. Help?" Mulder struggled to sit up, Alex automatically put his arm around his back and helped him up. Mulder shook off his help at the bathroom door, though, and Alex waited outside, concerned.

XXX

Mulder finished and was washing his hands in the mirror. He felt the pangs again in his stomach. The child lurched inside him and he gripped the sink. It eased off and he breathed a little easier. He washed his face and was about to turn and open the door when a blinding pain lanced through his stomach. He reached for the doorknob, but missed, falling. Before he blacked out he heard Alex yell, "Fox!"

XXX

"What We Need Now is Trust, Part Ten"

"Fox!" Alex had opened the door at the sound of a muffled thud. His lover lay on the floor, his arms clutched around his belly. Alex dropped to his knees and touched Fox's face; he was unconscious.

"Help! Scully! Dr. Reddy!" Alex cushioned Mulder's head with his hands. He tried to see if Fox had hurt himself when he fell. Footsteps pounded on the stairs as Skinner raced to their side.

"Where's Scully and Dr. Reddy?" Alex asked impatiently.

"Coming. They were in the lab." A moment passed, both men stared at the body before them, anxious.

Scully and Dr. Reddy joined them out of breath. They had a first aid kit and stretcher. Scully looked Mulder over briefly; she decided he could be moved. They laid out the stretcher and hoisted Mulder up gently. A brief argument ensued until Scully firmly ordered for the supplies to be transported to the first floor bedroom of the main house. No one wanted to move Mulder too far, especially with it snowing outside.

They cleared the bedroom briskly, it wasn't sterile, but they did their best. Skinner and the gunmen carted over the equipment without a grumble.

Mulder started to move, squirming into a fetal position, his arms clutching tighter as he moaned. Alex climbed into the bed and wrapped his arms around Mulder, trying to keep his arms away from his belly as Scully listened with her stethoscope. Mulder's midriff was bared to do so and everyone in the room stopped cold when the skin on his stomach rippled slightly. Scully's hand froze inches from the spot. She looked up at Alex questioningly. Alex held his lover tighter, his eyes riveted at the spot that had changed briefly. The rippling only lasted a moment and then stopped. Mulder groaned again and opened his eyes.

"Alex?"

"It's okay, Lisa." Alex lied through his teeth.

"No it's not...what's going on?!" Fox's eyes roamed the room, seeing the equipment and frightened faces.

"Okay, everyone out except Dr. Reddy, Alex and me. Come on." Scully shushed everyone out of the room and shut the door firmly.

"Does that mean I can go?" Mulder asked weakly his face a grimace.

Alex absently stroked Mulder's hair, his eyes still focused on the same spot. Mulder closed his eyes and tried to relax. Dr. Reddy bustled around with their equipment; he and Scully spoke in low voices in the corner. Moments passed by quietly. Alex kept stroking and Mulder eventually fell into a light doze, which was abruptly interrupted by another spasm of pain.

"Ohhh...uhhh..." Mulder writhed, Alex holding him down. Scully and Dr. Reddy huddled over them. The spasm eased slightly and they all waited, as before the skin on the belly rippled, this time a very small hole formed and closed just as quickly. Mulder panted, his eyes seeking Scully's.

Scully frowned and tried to avoid his gaze, but finally steeled herself and met his gaze.

"Scully? What's going on?" Mulder asked quietly, fearing the answer.

"I think you're in labor." Mulder dropped his head with a groan. Alex looked shell-shocked and remained silent, stroking Fox's hair mechanically.

They had planned to perform a C-section sometime during the first week of January. Dr. Reddy excused himself to get the rest of the necessary equipment and to inform the others outside of the situation.

For the next 15 hours Mulder experienced spasms of pain and then a sudden morphing in his belly area. The hole that appeared became bigger and more defined with every spasm. Alex was pale and stunned, but offered Mulder what comfort he could.

Tempers frayed, however, around the fifth hour.

North Carolina woods
December 22 2000
7:55 p.m.

"God damn it! How much longer?!" Mulder yelled, worn out.

Scully raised an eyebrow. "You've got it a hell of a lot easier than most women, Mulder. The dilation of the...opening is preceding much faster than-"

"Fine then, DON'T tell me." Fox snapped and turned his head away.

Another hour went by, Alex made the mistake of opening his mouth. "I can't believe this is happening... We haven't even picked out the name, yet."

Mulder glared at his lover. "Oh?! I suppose I should hold the kid in until you make up your mind, then?! You're the one that won't pick one."

Krycek wisely bit his tongue. Scully tried to ease the tension. "What names have you decided on so far?"

Mulder gritted his teeth as another spasm hit, when it and the resulting morphing eased he answered, "We decided on Samantha as the middle name and a Russian name for the first, but he won't pick anything..."

Alex shrugged slightly and rubbed his right hand, which Mulder had crushed repeatedly. "Well, the names Natalia, Natasha, and Tasha mean born on Christmas..."

Mulder shook his head. "No. You've already got a Natalia and Natasha in your family...too confusing. Besides it isn't Christmas, yet."

"Tanya or Tatiana?" Fox shook his head again, "How about Svetlana? It means star."

Alex wrinkled his nose, "no. How about Katerina? It's Slavic, but my Father's side was Slavic..."

The two had been pouring through baby name books for the last week.

Mulder nodded, smiling faintly, "I like it. Katerina Samantha."

XXX

Finally, at 6:00 a.m. December 23 2000 Katerina Samantha Mulder Krycek was born. She had a full head of dark brown hair.

The Lone Gunmen pulled out the champagne meant for New Year's and toasted the birth.

Skinner finally managed to peek into the room an hour after the birth. Mulder and Alex were both passed out, completely exhausted. Alex held Fox in his arms, their fingers entwined over Mulder's chest.

He withdrew and went out to check the perimeter once more.

XXX

The next morning, the Alex sat in the rocking chair feeding their daughter a bottle of formula. He had a big sappy smile on his face that Mulder loved watching. Alex might smile for him, but not too many others knew what a nice smile he had. Looked like Kat was going to be one of the privileged few.

Mulder was feeling worn out. His insides felt like 'mushy jello' as he so eloquently put it when Scully asked him. She had examined him again and there was no sign of the morphing any more. He'd tried it with his hand, but he was either too tired or just not able to. Scully seemed disappointed not to be able to study the phenomena, but Mulder was just glad. He hated it.

So he sat in the bed, watching the two people he loved most in the world get to know one another. Alex's head was buzzing with happy thoughts and plans for the future. Fox closed his eyes and 'listened' since Alex was so happy he was broadcasting rather loudly.

There was a tap on the door. Scully poked her head in, "Breakfast." She carried in a large tray with milk, juice, cereal, toast, eggs and fruit.

"Geez, Scully, how much do you think the two of us can eat? Kat doesn't have teeth, yet."

Scully predictably raised her eyebrow and pointed at the tray she'd brought in. "Alex's is on the way. THIS is yours. You lost a lot of blood last night. I don't care if you DO heal fast. Eat."

Mulder sighed; he HAD lost a lot of blood. Morphing or not, he had bled plenty during the actual birthing process. Their small stock of blood hadn't completely replenished his loss. He was feeling weak and tired. He picked up the spoon and ate his cereal slowly. Alex watched from the chair, glad he was cooperating. The blood on the sheets and floor had been grisly. The Langly had fainted from the sight of it when they carried it out this morning to the trash.

Alex stood up with the baby and sat down on the bed next to his lover. He was going to make sure Fox ate it all. Mulder glared at him and returned to his food. Kat smacked her lips and fell asleep...

XXX

Later that day...

They moved Mulder up to their bedroom on the second floor. Mulder leaned heavily on Alex the whole way. Lying down on the bed, he fell asleep again. Scully and Dr. Reddy were a little worried at his lack of strength, but let him sleep peacefully.

The nursery was set up, but for now she'd sleep in the bedroom with them in her bassinet.

The gunmen straightened the house up while Skinner, Dr. Reddy and Scully planned and cooked for the next day. The smell of cookies and pies woke Mulder up around dinnertime. He ate in bed again with Alex, smiling weakly as Scully filled him in on Kat's health, Christmas plans and how many times she'd had to fend off Frohike's advances after he'd had too much champagne the night before.

XXX

Christmas was pleasant. Mulder felt better as the days passed. By New Year he was back to normal. After the holidays it was decided that their guests would depart. Scully's leave of absence and vacation time were all used up. She and Skinner left on a flight to D.C. together. Before leaving the house, she gave Mulder a big hug, kissed Kat on the forehead and then, much to everyone's surprise, even hugged Alex. She whispered in his ear, "You take care of these two or else..." Alex nodded.

Skinner shook hands with Mulder briskly, but smiled down at the baby. He nodded in Krycek's general direction and strode off, leaving Scully to shrug apologetically to Mulder. She turned to leave when Skinner strode back unexpectedly. He hauled Alex off by his arm. Krycek stiffened, but offered no resistance. He glared at Skinner who let go, but leaned in closer.

"If anything happens to Mulder or the baby, so help me God, I will KILL you." He glared deep in Krycek's eyes and then turned away once more. Alex walked back to Fox and shook his head. "Forget it. Let's go back inside." He led his family back into the house and reset the alarm. They sighed at finally having the house to themselves. Peace at last.

Kat started crying.

XXX

Months turned into years. Katerina grew more adorable everyday. She was a happy baby, always smiling and gurgling, raising her hands to be picked up. Alex spoiled her rotten and Fox wasn't far behind him. They delighted in her intelligence. She spoke early, took her first step early, and did everything ahead of her peers.

Alex was in awe and not just a little freaked out until Mulder finally admitted that he had developed as fast himself.

XXX

The first trip to visit Alex's family was stressful. They returned from their 'trip' when Kat was three months old. Mari, Nikolai, Anya, Natalia and all the relatives all admonished the two for worrying them so and then proceeded to lavish attention on the cute little girl they'd 'adopted.'

Mari pulled the two aside while the Aunts cooed over their new niece. She demanded an explanation from them on the trouble she'd felt that night and the green stain on the floor.

Mulder and Alex were going to make up some little story when she demanded, "Does this have anything to do with the 'family business?' Your father and mother-"

Alex grabbed her hand. "No. And you know better than to ask about that. Just leave it alone. We're okay and we're living in a nice house in North Carolina now. That's all you need to know."

Mari narrowed her eyes and then nodded, leaving them to join the party in the next room.

Mulder stopped Alex from following. "Family business? Are you ever going to tell me about your parents, Alex?"

Alex sighed, closing his eyes. "What do you think, Mulder? My parents were consortium spies. They defected from Russia and the Russian sect of the consortium to work for the American elders."

"What happened?"

"They were executed by the Russian consortium for being traitors. I come from a long line of traitors, okay?" He opened his eyes but didn't meet Mulder's.

Mulder took his hand. "When?"

"When I was 12, Nikolai was 18 and Anya was 20. They took care of Natalia and me. The American elders recruited me in college. I don't know how much my sisters and brother know. As far as I know I was the only one they approached. I couldn't tell them about it.

Anya and Nikolai...I think they know about Mama and Papa's line of work somewhat. Especially considering what Mari said. I guess they think it was like the mob. I don't want them to know how dirty they really were...or I am."

"WERE. And you got out when you could. Don't be so hard on yourself. I love you. Now come on, let's go rescue our daughter from her aunties." Mulder kissed him on the cheek and led him back to the party.

XXX

Back home, life was laid back. Mulder tried his hand at gardening. He wanted to try to grow tomatoes and green peppers. He would have failed miserably if Alex didn't sneak out occasionally and water them for him.

Both men worked on fixing the house up and maintaining the security. Scully dropped by occasionally for visits, but Skinner never did. He did send presents for Kat, though.

Mulder's ability to heal went away with his pregnancy apparently. One day, not too long after Kat was born, he scratched his hand on a piece of glass and while they'd waited for the expected rapid healing, he'd kept on bleeding. Finally, Alex had grabbed his hand and pressed the wound closed. Cleaning it with peroxide and a Band- Aid. Mulder had smiled, looking at his bandaged hand.

"What are you grinning at?" Alex had asked.

Mulder shrugged, "Well, I didn't mind the healing part, but I'm kind of glad it's gone with the morphing. I feel normal again..."

Kat had started crying in the next room and they'd gone to feed her again.

Life was good...

The End

Continued in "Book 2: Trust, Love and Happiness, too."