Life from the Ashes Book 2 - Hope and Faith
Chapter 5
Hauntingby Jo B.
purplefox@usfamily.net***
Viva Tower
Saturday, February 13
6:00 a.m.Mulder decided not to spend another night in the upstairs bedroom until he had a medium go through the apartment. He knew it was childish and very unlike him to be afraid considering some of the X-Files he encountered. However, the agent felt the presence was focused on him. Mulder was surprised how understanding Skinner was when he told him that he wasn't going to sleep upstairs until after the matter was resolved. He thought his lover would have thrown a fit, but Walter seemed not to mind, which bothered the agent immensely.
Mulder had sensed that Walter hadn't believed him about the ghost and was only humoring him. It confused him, since his lover had believed him when he told him Aleksandra talked to him.
Mulder rolled over on his back away from Krycek's warm body. The agent hadn't found out where his lovers had been all day -- his instincts were telling him something was going on between the two men. Over the last three weeks they were spending more, and more, time together and he was starting to feel left out. The A.D. arranged for him to spend the day with Pipino and Sullivan again while he and Alex went to see Bob Robertson, their investment broker. If this kept up, he'd have to take an interest in his finances just so he could see his two lovers.
At least he'd be able to pay off the bribe to Pipino and Sullivan. He'd have them take him to the grocery store today, and would fix dinner for them tonight. If anything, at least he'd be away from the apartment and not alone today.
He turned and looked longingly at Alex, the younger man had been too exhausted last night -- they only made love once. Mulder was feeling depressed, he climbed out of bed and grabbed his clothes. He was going to take a shower in the small guest bathroom then head downstairs for an early morning swim.
Mulder remembered that he hadn't told Skinner about his meeting with Doctor Pendrell yesterday. He had the young doctor fill out the official documents stating that their daughter had only his and Skinner's genetic makeup. The agent decided to save it as a Valentines Day gift for the older man. After all, his lover was leaving him alone again today. He would wrap the document as a gift and give it to Walter at brunch tomorrow.
He climbed out of the shower and walked naked to their small laundry room. Mulder grabbed his Speedo from the drying rack and slipped it on then went back to the bathroom, and pulled on his sweatpants and T-shirt. He headed out of the apartment and got on the elevator, watching as the numbers called off each floor as it descended. All of a sudden, the elevator got colder and he had the feeling he was no longer alone. The agent felt the touch of a hand on his buttocks, spinning he saw no one there. The elevator door chimed and opened, he backed out, glancing nervously around him.
To his relief there were already two other agents taking an early morning swim. Mulder tried to ignore his ghostly encounter as he swam -- hopefully both Walter and Alex would be up when he got back to the apartment.
***
Foxfire Glenn Estate
Saturday, February 13
3:40 p.m.Skinner and Krycek finished supervising the placement of the furniture from the younger man's apartment in St. Petersburg. The large, round kitchen table fit perfectly in the breakfast nook next to the kitchen. The nook had bay windows that surrounded the table; the windows spanned the length of two floors. There was a balcony that looked down over the breakfast area from the second floor game room.
Krycek looked over at Skinner, who was staring, lost in thought out the window overlooking their sprawling backyard. In the distance you could see the frozen lake that was on their large piece of land. Marshes were on the other side of the lake, which produced the legendary foxfire that gave the estate its name.
"Walter, what's wrong? You've been distracted all day."
"Alex . . . did Fox seem nervous to you this morning?"
"He did seem a little jumpy, but considering last night I really couldn't blame him. I didn't like leaving him with Agents Pipino and Sullivan again. We haven't been spending much time with him over the last three weeks."
"You didn't believe his story yesterday . . . did you?" Skinner asked hesitantly.
"Yes, every word of it. Walter, this is Fox Mulder we're talking about . . . when has he not been right about something paranormal?" Krycek was surprised that his brother would even doubt their lover's story.
"Usually I take him at his word, but for some reason that I can't explain the whole thing seemed ludicrous yesterday, but it doesn't today. Maybe we should head back early . . . I don't want him to be in that apartment alone today." Skinner felt guilty that he'd disbelieved Mulder's story. He hoped his lover hadn't noticed it.
Yori strolled into the kitchen with Skinner's cousin Lev. Since Yori and Lev met yesterday, they never seemed to be far from one another. Lev was a couple of years younger than Yori and they were built completely different. Yori was tall, broad, and muscular -- with his beard and body hair he resembled a Russian bear. Lev was shorter, skinny, and didn't have much in the way of body hair.
"Alexei, Lev mentioned that you are looking for a housekeeper. If the position is still open, I would be honored if you would consider me for it?" Yori asked, he was lonely living in his apartment -- he missed Mulder. The agent had been friendly to him, and treated him with respect -- unlike Slava. He missed being useful and knew that the A.D. and his family would fill that need.
"Are you sure, Yori? You really aren't hurting for money, don't you want to enjoy life for a change?" Krycek asked.
"I'd be willing to work for free, the money isn't important to me . . . I need to work." Yori explained.
"Okay, we'd be happy to have you working for us. You can move into the apartment off the kitchen," Krycek told him. "Yori, could you lock up . . . Walter and I are going back to Viva Tower."
"Yes, thank you, Alexei," Yori said happily, he had been in that apartment to clean it. "Come, Lev, I'll show you my new apartment." Yori grabbed the younger man's hand and led him through the butler pantry down a short hallway. A door at the end that opened into his new living quarters.
Lev was surprised at the size of the apartment. They walked into a small foyer with hardwood floors, a coat closet, a French door that opened onto a back porch. The foyer opened into a living room, on the other side of the room there was a dining area in front of a large bay window, behind it was an open kitchen with a center island. A staircase led up to a bedroom loft that looked down over the dining room and living room. The bathroom was in a small hallway just off the living room.
***
Viva Tower
Saturday, February 13
5:20 p.m.Skinner and Krycek arrived back at Viva Tower -- the apartment was freezing again. They telepathically scanned the apartment for their lover. Not finding him, they broaden their search to the whole building. They finally located him three stories down at Agent Sullivan's apartment.
*Fox, are you all right?* Skinner shouted telepathically. He had been worried the whole drive back to the apartment, but refrained from contacting Mulder telepathically because his lover didn't like the intrusion into his mind.
*Walter, don't shout. I'm fine. You're back early, usually you and Alex haven't been getting back until after 7:00 p.m.* Mulder had a hint of hurt in his voice that both Skinner and Krycek picked up on.
*Fox, I realize we haven't been paying too much attention to you lately, but I promise that will change. Why don't I come down and escort you back home?* Skinner suggested as he attempted to read Mulder thoughts, but found the agent had become an expert at concealing them.
*Don't do that! Walter, you know I can feel it when you try to scan my thoughts . . . I'll escort myself home when I done here. I'm cooking dinner for Jack, Phil, Vinny, and their boys.* Mulder had tucked the incident in the elevator away because he didn't want either Walter or Alex to find out. He enjoyed having the freedom to go anywhere in the building alone and wasn't about to jeopardize that.
*Dinner? Why are you cooking them dinner?* Skinner was slightly annoyed. He didn't like sharing Mulder's time.
*It's the least I could do. After all, they had to give up their Saturday to *baby-sit* me again!* Mulder lied skillfully, he didn't want Skinner to find out it was because he had lunch with Doctor Pendrell and the two agents had blackmailed him into cooking dinner for them. He threw in the bit of guilt at the end free because he still felt slighted by his lovers.
*They get paid to protect you, Fox. You don't have to feel obligated to cook for them,* Skinner replied, annoyed.
*Walter, I was lonely! I didn't feel like sitting in our apartment alone waiting for you and Alex to decide to come home. Now, if you'll excuse me . . . I have to glaze the ham.* Mulder ended their conversation, he didn't respond to further attempts by his lovers to communicate with him.
"Walter, he sounded pissed . . . it's a good thing we're done house hunting," Krycek sighed. Heading for the kitchen, he turned up the thermostat on his way.
"We'll make it up to him tomorrow. It looks like we're stuck cooking for ourselves tonight," Skinner said, opening the refrigerator.
"Unlike some of us, I do know how to cook," Krycek stated smugly.
"So, what are you going to cook for us?"
Krycek walked into the pantry and came back with a box of spaghetti and a jar of spaghetti sauce. He pulled a package of ready-made meatballs from the freezer. "Spaghetti and meatballs," he said with a smile.
Skinner glared at him. "Even I could make that."
"Good, you make it and I'll prepare a salad."
After dinner, they sat watching television while waiting for Mulder to return. It was after 11:00 p.m. when the agent finally staggered into the apartment -- he was obviously drunk. "Bye, Vvvinny," he muttered, shutting the door.
Mulder noticed them sitting on the sofa. "I'm gggoing . . . take shower . . . bed," he stammered tiredly, weaving his way toward the downstairs bathroom.
Skinner exchanged looks with Krycek. "He's all yours tonight, but I get him tomorrow night."
"Gee thanks, I think I'd better help him with his shower -- in his condition he'll probably pass out and crack his skull open," Krycek sighed, standing and heading for the bathroom.
Mulder was struggling to remove his shirt he had one sleeve off, but couldn't figure out how to get the shirt over his head. Krycek stepped forward. "Here, let me do that," he said, unbuttoning the shirt he slipped it over the agent's head.
"Thanks." Mulder staggered almost losing his balance.
Krycek closed the lid on the toilet. "Sit down, Fox," he ordered. Helping the agent to sit, he proceeded to remove his shoes and socks. "Stand up so I can get your pants off." When done, he made Mulder sit while he removed his own clothes and turned on the shower.
"Did you have a nice time today, Fox?" Krycek asked sarcastically, helping him to step into the bathtub.
"No . . . missed you. Why . . . don't you . . . lolove me anymore?" Mulder sniffed and broke into tears; he was too drunk to hide his emotions. He would be embarrassed if he remembered this incident tomorrow.
"Fox, I still love you. Fuck, is that why you've been drinking?" the younger man asked, feeling guilty as he washed the agent's hair.
"Why else . . . you . . . void me?"
"Oh, Fox, you idiot." Krycek hugged him close kissing his cheek. "C'mon let's get you to bed, you're going to be feeling this tomorrow."
Krycek dried himself and Mulder off, steering the older man into the bedroom. He noticed the rest of the apartment was dark -- Skinner must have turned in. The younger man pulled down the blankets and helped his lover lay down, then he turned off the lights and climbed in next to him, spooning himself around the agent's body.
"Alex?"
"What?"
"Never mind." Mulder wanted to tell him that he was cold, instead he turned around and cuddled in closer falling asleep, a few minutes later Krycek joined him.
A dark shadow rose out of the floor and loomed menacingly over the two sleeping men. A limb reached out and touched the agent's tranquil face, then the figure dissolved back into the floor.
***
The Hampton House
Sunday, February 14
Noon
Mulder looked at his companion. Skinner was dressed elegantly in a black tuxedo, similar in attire to many of the other diners, including himself. He still felt slightly woozy, but fortunately not nearly as bad as when he first woke up. They were seated at a secluded table that was adorned with a white linen tablecloth, linen napkins, champagne, and a lovely floral centerpiece.
The waiter came and refilled Skinner's glass with champagne he looked over at Mulder's glass, which hadn't been touched. "Is there something else you would like, sir?"
"Yes, orange juice and coffee, please," Mulder replied.
Skinner glanced at his watch. His brother, cousins, and the Gunmen should have his possessions from the Viva Tower apartment loaded onto the truck by now.
"How are you feeling, Fox?" Skinner asked. He was still concerned, although, his lover was looking much better.
"I'm fine, Walter. Sorry about last night . . . I didn't intend to come home drunk," he murmured, embarrassed.
"That's okay, no harm done," the A.D. replied, grasping Mulder's hand and squeezing it reassuringly. "I'm just glad you're feeling better today." Skinner leaned over and brushed his lips against Mulder's and the younger man returned the kiss.
The waiter came back with Mulder's beverages and a basket of assorted muffins, returning a minute later with two citrus salads. He returned when they were done and set down steaming plates brimming with a Spanish omelet, corn fritters, and sausage, refilling Skinner's glass of champagne. Mulder attempted to drink his; he was feeling considerably better now that he had eaten.
After they finished eating and the dishes had been cleared away. Skinner ordered a bottle of expensive wine; he wanted to propose a toast.
"To our future happiness and life together," Skinner toasted, clicking his glass with Mulder's.
Mulder reached in his pocket for the envelope he had brought along, handing it to Skinner. "Happy Valentines Day, Walter," he said, kissing the older man.
Skinner weighed the envelope in his hand, looking at it thoughtfully before he opened it. He read the enclosed document and stared up at his lover with a shocked expression on his handsome face. "Fox, what is this? Where did you get this information?"
"I visited Hope on Friday and Doctor Pendrell told me. He printed out that paper so I could show you. I was going to tell you on Friday, but with the ghost, then you telling me you were leaving me alone again . . . I'm sorry Walter, I was *selfish* because I wanted to be with you after I told you," Mulder sighed.
"Fox, this is the best Valentines gift I've ever received. Don't feel guilty for not telling me sooner, I can understand how you felt. We have been leaving you alone too much over the past few weeks, but that will change after today," Skinner murmured, grinning from ear-to-ear. "Hope's ours . . . there is no way Scully can win custody of her."
"Hope shares only yours and my genes . . . legally there is nothing she can do to get custody," Mulder's replied sadly. "Doctor Pendrell is going to call Scully and arrange a meeting for us, so he can explain it to her. Walter, I don't know why, but for some reason I feel sorry for Scully."
"Fox, she was your partner and friend for years. Of course, you'd feel sympathy toward her loss, but remember it was her idea to allow us to use her ovum. She was the one who reneged on our arrangement." Skinner reached out and took his lover's hand in his as he picked up his glass of wine sipping it slowly.
'You're right, Walter. I just feel badly for her," he sighed, squeezing Skinner's hand. "So, what else do you have planned for us today?"
"It's beautiful outside today, the weather reports say it will get up close to sixty. I thought we'd take walk along the mall by the reflection pool, then a drive into the country -- it's been awhile since we've gotten outside of the city."
"Anywhere in particular or are we just going to drive aimlessly."
"I thought we might see if any of the hiking trails are passable yet."
"Walter, we're hardly dressed for hiking. Maybe we should go home and change first."
"Fox, what's wrong with two men in tuxedos hiking in the woods? Where's your sense of adventure?"
"You're serious? The paths will be muddy, we're going to destroy our shoes," Mulder exclaimed at his lover's carefree behavior.
Skinner was supposed to have Mulder at the estate at 5:30 p.m., their guests would be arriving at 4:30 p.m. He paid the check and grabbed his lover's hand. "C'mon, let's get out of here."
***
Foxfire Glenn Estate
Sunday, February 14
2:45 p.m.
Kimberly watched as the paper streamers floated up to the beams and attached themselves with thumbtacks. She smiled at her boyfriend Tony, who was using his powers to help her decorate for the surprise party. They centered the decorating in the family room, kitchen area, and the upstairs game room where most of the guests would be.
She walked into the kitchen and watched the two Russians preparing hors d'oeuvres. Lev was showing Yori how to use the icing bag to decorate the different canapés with the cream cheese. They had their bodies pressed intimately close together -- Lev was holding the larger man's hand, showing him how to squeeze it.
Kimberly backed out of the kitchen with a knowing smile on her face. It was obvious that the two men were infatuated with each other. They hadn't even noticed her.
"Hi, Kim, how's the decorating going?" Krycek asked, entering the family room.
"Fine, Alex. Tony is hanging up the last of the streamers. Are you done moving all of the furniture in?"
"Yeah, I just finished hanging Skinner's and Mulder's clothes in their closet," Krycek stated. Walking into the butler's pantry, he opened the small refrigerator and pulled out a beer. "Want one?" he offered.
"Sure, I could use a drink," she answered accepting the beverage.
"Do you need a glass?"
"No thanks, Alex, the bottle is fine," Kimberly replied, taking a sip. She walked over to the fireplace in the family room, looking up at the portrait. "She looks like you . . . is she a relative?"
"Yes, she's mine and Walter's mother, Aleksandra."
"She's very lovely, Alex."
***
Mulder watched as Skinner swerved around another pothole; the older man had already run over several that were filled with water from the melting snow.
"If you'd rather, Walter, we can always go back to D.C. and walk around the city parks," Mulder suggested.
"No . . . don't you think it's *beautiful* out here in the country?" Skinner asked. On the right hand side of his car, he could see their property.
Mulder followed the older man's eyes. "I didn't know there was a lake out here, do you know what its name is?" he asked, noticing the lake in the distance.
"Its called Gulls lake, in the summer you can't see it from the road because of the trees and shrubs." Skinner turned onto the private road.
"Walter, where are you going? That sign back there said that this is private property," Mulder warned.
"That's okay, Fox . . . I know the owners." Skinner pulled the car up to the security gate and punched in the code.
Mulder was now suspicious, especially after he saw the gate had a pattern of foxes on it. "Walter, who are the owners?" he asked as the car drove through the gate and down a winding road.
"You, me, and Alex. Oh, see that cottage." The older man slowed the car pointing out the French style cottage off to the left. "That's where Kimberly and Tony are going to be living."
"Kimberly? Your secretary?" Mulder had noticed the large cottage and assumed that was going to be their home until the car pulled up in front of the large mansion.
"Walter, I really would have appreciated it if you would have ask me first if I wanted to live all the way out in the country." Mulder was overwhelmed. He felt slighted that they hadn't included him on the decision to purchase this place.
Skinner took in Mulder's sullen expression. "Fox, we wanted to surprise you . . . Alex and I wanted to find a place that would give you back some of the freedoms you had lost."
Mulder leaned over and kissed Skinner on the lips, accepting his reasoning behind the gift, he would be able to go outside on his own here. He looked back at the mansion, staring at the large structure in stunned awe. "Walter, isn't that a bit big?"
"Well, Alex and I looked at hundreds of homes and we both liked this property the best. It fit all of our needs . . . don't forget we have a child on the way. In addition, it will allow you the freedom to go running on your own, we're having a jogging path put around the property this spring."
Mulder watched with interest as his lover tried to justify his extravagant purchase, he knew Skinner wasn't big on spending money. Most of their money was invested in different mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.
"C'mon, why don't you show me our new home. When are we going to move in?" Mulder asked, climbing out of the car and noticing all of the other vehicles for the first time.
"We already have . . . Alex moved our stuff from Viva Tower while we were out today."
Mulder stopped and looked at him. "We're not going back to Viva Tower? Who do all the cars belong to?" he inquired as Skinner steered him toward the front door.
"No, were not going back, this is our home now. The cars belong to friends and family." Skinner opened the front door.
"SURPRISE!" Their guests shouted, coming up to shake their hands.
Krycek came over and pulled Mulder away from the crowd, leading him into the private study. He shut the door, kissing him passionately. "Well, what do you think? Was it a surprise?" he murmured, breaking the kiss.
"Alex, surprise is too mild of a description. So, this is what you and Walter have been doing for the past three weeks?"
"Yeah, we were starting to get on each other's nerves. Anything he liked I hated and vise versa, it was lucky we found this place before we killed each other." Krycek stroked his hands down the agent's body. "You know, Fox. There are a lot of areas inside and outside this estate where we can make love," he whispered nipping the agent's ear lobe and pulling Mulder's body closer.
"Mm, shall we ditch the party and you can show me each and every one?" Mulder moaned. Pressing his groan against Krycek's, he embraced the younger man licking a path down his neck.
*FOX! ALEX! Knock it off and get your *butts* out here, you're not sticking me with playing the host alone!* Skinner bellowed telepathically causing both men to jump apart.
Frohike was sitting at the kitchen counter; he looked up leering at the disgruntled A.D. "I wonder where all the areas are that Alex has in mind?" the little man asked.
"Well, my baby brother isn't going to be the first to explore all of them with Fox," Skinner grumbled without thinking, he blushed red when he noticed Kimberly sitting next to Frohike.
Kimberly didn't have the slightest idea what they were talking about, not having been a party to Krycek's conversation with Mulder. "Tony, dearest, do you want to tell me what's going on?" She asked her boyfriend who was handing her a cocktail.
Tony stared over at Skinner who had a stern look on his face. "Later, honey, this is not the time or the place." He grinned at the older man. "Walter, when Kim is at work this week, I'm going to start painting the cottage if that's okay with you?"
"Sure, Tony, send me the bill for the paint and supplies," Skinner replied. When the younger man was about protest . . . "I insist, you're doing me a favor by moving in and taking the caretaker's position . . . it's the least I can do," Skinner replied sincerely, turning when he felt Mulder's arm wrap around his waist.
"Hi, how's the *lord* of the manor doing?" Mulder joked and kissed away the scowl from Skinner's lips, until the older man was smiling.
Jack Sullivan and Phil Boutotte came into the kitchen for more beer. "Sir, I'm happy to hear that things have worked out for you concerning your daughter," Agent Boutotte commented. At Skinner's baffled look, he added, "Mulder told me yesterday over dinner . . . Vinny had invited me and my son over."
"Thank you, Agent Boutotte. Does Dana know?" Skinner asked.
"I haven't talked to Dana in over a week, sir. I have no intentions on getting involved, this is between you and her," the agent replied.
"Agent Boutotte, I appreciate that. I also want to thank you for being there for Scully. Although I'm as pissed as hell at her, she needs to have a shoulder to lean on. I realize the position that placed you in, and I want you to know it has absolutely no bearing on your position in the bureau," Skinner informed the startled agent, Phil had been nervous about coming here today, but Vinny had convinced him it would be all right.
"Thank you, sir, that is a relief."
Jack handed him a case of beer and both agents departed; they were going back upstairs to the game room. The room had its own bar and refrigerator, but the other guests had already drunk all of the beer up there.
Mulder watched as they got on an elevator just outside the kitchen. "We even have our own elevating! Walter, just how large is this place?" Mulder exclaimed, taking a deep breath he thought he detected the smell of chlorine. "Don't tell me . . . there's an indoor pool in this place as well?"
"Okay, we have our own elevator, four staircases, indoor and outdoor pools and spa, a sauna, exercise room, wine cellar, a two-story library, eighteen fireplaces, fifteen bedrooms and bathrooms, three powder rooms . . . not to mention the cottage and housekeeper's apartment," Skinner breathed out exhausted, looking over at Krycek. "Did I leave anything out?
"Only the outdoor kitchen, pool house, three fully equipped bars, a five car garage with workshop, and game room complete with pool-table, and a few secret passageways," Krycek smirked at Mulder who stood opened mouth.
"Secret passageways? Show me, Alex, please," Mulder begged, giving him his best puppy-dog expression.
"Later, Fox." Krycek smiled at him and his older brother.
Yori had been in the family room serving hors d'oeuvres to the guests. He came back into the kitchen to refill his tray. Seeing Mulder, he quickly put the tray on the counter. "Mulder, my friend, it is good to see you again!" the Russian exclaimed, hugging the agent and kissing him on both cheeks.
Skinner glared at Yori in jealousy; he'd have to have a talk with him later. The A.D. wanted Yori to know that he was not allowed to touch Fox in any way.
Krycek took it all in stride, he knew Yori was only interested in Fox as a friend. If there were any romantic thoughts, he couldn't find them. "Fox, Yori is going to be our new housekeeper."
"Really? That's great, Yori, are you already moved in?" Mulder asked. He had missed the Russian's company; there had been few people in his life that had actually liked him for himself -- Yori was one of them.
"I'm moving in tomorrow, have you seen my new apartment, yet?" Yori asked with real enthusiasm.
"No, Yori, I don't even know where I'm going to be sleeping tonight," Mulder stated. Skinner gave him a very hurt expression with his soulful brown eyes that beat his puppy-dog look all to hell.
"Walter hasn't had time to show me our bedroom, yet," Mulder said to pacify the older man. When he received a smile, he knew he was successful.
"Tomorrow then, Mulder. I have to get more food out to our guests," the Russian said, truly enjoying his new friends and the party.
Kimberly came over to Mulder with her boyfriend. "Mulder, I'd like you to meet my boyfriend Tony. Tony, this is Special Agent Fox Mulder." They measured each other up.
"It's nice to meet you, Tony. Walter mentioned that you were moving into the cottage," Mulder replied, accepting the 'White Russian' Alex had made for him. He took a sip as he waited for Tony's reply.
"Yes, I'm going to be the caretaker of the estate. I really enjoy gardening and from the looks of the flowerbeds, there seems to be a lot of perennials. I'll put a budget together for you, Walter, and Alex on what will be needed to maintain the gardens this year." The younger man was excited at the prospect of being part of this estate.
"Tony, let's start off on the right foot. Anything concerning money or budgets give to Walter or Alex. Now, if you should stumble upon any burial grounds or ancient relics in your diggings, see me." Mulder smiled sweetly at him.
For the first time in his life, Tony felt the pangs of arousal for another man. He quickly reminded himself who he was talking to, and refocused his attention on Kimberly. "Sure, Mulder. Kim said that we share the same views on the government. I read several of the articles that were published on you and I have to say I agree with her. Maybe we can discuss the government and conspiracies. I used to be an investigative reporter."
"Tony, have you met Frohike, Byers, and Langly?" Mulder asked, looking at his dearest friends. Frohike was still seated on the kitchen stool, drinking a scotch. Byers sat at the opposite end, sipping a glass of white wine, and Langly was sitting on the counter his long legs dangling as he downed a beer with a whiskey chaser.
"Yeah, we met Friday . . . they were helping with the cleaning," Tony replied.
"Tony, have you ever heard of the Lone Gunman and the Magic Bullet magazine?" Mulder asked.
"Sure . . . I have a subscription. It's one of the most in depth and well researched conspiracy magazine around." Tony still didn't have a clue -- for a sorcerer, one might think he'd be more up on things.
"Tony, these are the Lone Gunmen," Mulder said, sweeping his hand to include all three men.
Tony looked at each of the three men closely for the first time. "Oh fuck, they are . . . how could I've missed it?" His eyes widened with surprise.
"Maybe because you still respect other people's privacy. It's something you're going to have to get rid of -- what if one of us was here to do you or the lovely Miss Kim harm?" Frohike offered.
"Tony, don't listen to him. You only have to focus more on being aware of the people around you, ask Yori to help you. Unlike Frohike, Yori is considerate of other people's privacy," Mulder advised him.
Frohike smirked at his best friend, he couldn't argue with Mulder. After all, he'd be the first to admit that he was a voyeur.
The party lasted until after midnight, luckily there were several designated drivers, and most of their guests still lived at Viva Tower. The few that remained sacked out in the guest bedrooms.
Skinner led Mulder into the master bedroom suite it was over twice the size of their bedroom in Viva Tower. The room dwarfed the king-size bed, and there was even a fireplace. "Fox, this is the main reason I wanted this estate," Skinner said, grabbing Mulder's hand and leading him into a small sitting room attached to their bedroom. At his lover's uncomprehending look, he added, "It's a nursery. Hope's crib will be in here until she's old enough for her own bedroom."
"Oh . . . won't her crying keep us awake?"
"Fox, she'll only cry if she's wet or hungry. It won't be much trouble to keep her dry and full." The older man stated with an air of knowledge he didn't possess.Mulder thought //Yeah, right, she'll cry when she's bored, lonely, or just downright mischievous.// The agent grinned, he couldn't wait to see his lover proven wrong.
"Fox, what?"
"Nothing, Walter, I was just thinking about what a great father you are going to make."
"C'mon, let's christen the new bedroom," Skinner said as he started to undress the younger man. Mulder stood passively and allowed the older man to strip him, he knew his lover enjoyed slowly pealing away his clothing there was something so possessive about the process.
Mulder stood naked while the other man walked slowly around his body admiring it. Skinner gently caressed the agent's back then pulled the younger man's body up against his fully clothed chest.
Mulder felt the rough texture of Skinner's clothing against his bare back and the hardness of the older man's erection pressed between his buttocks. The A.D. caressed his hand down Mulder's chest and brought his lips to the agent's ear. "Fox, you're mine . . . you belong to me . . . this belongs to me," he said, stroking the younger man's cock until it stood erect.
"God, Walter," Mulder moaned, pushing his hips back against the larger man's groin, getting the desired gasp from him.
Skinner spun his lover around to face him and captured his mouth in a deep exploring kiss. Mulder brought his hands under his lover's jacket, feeling the taut muscles of his chest, caressing his way up to the older man's broad shoulders, he pushed the jacket off them. Skinner lowered his hands to allow the jacket to fall to the floor, never breaking the kiss. Mulder then started working on the buttons of Skinner's dress shirt. Pulling the shirt free of his pants, the agent broke the kiss. He tried to step back so he could remove the shirt, but the older man pulled him even tighter against his chest.
Skinner ground and rotated his hips against Mulder's, rubbing their groins deliciously together. He had his arms wrapped tightly around his lover's body, lowering them until his hands were cupping the younger man's buttocks. Skinner inserted his fingers into the cleft, bringing them down until he felt the agent's puckered opening. He slipped a dry finger inside and felt the sphincter muscle grip it. Skinner explored deeper, angling his finger up until he found the bump of his lover's prostate gland.
Mulder tightened his arms around Skinner's waist arching up against the older man's body as Skinner's finger caressing his prostate shot a wave of pleasure through him. His cock stood unbearably hard against his stomach, which was pressed against the older man's body. "Walter, please . . . I need you . . . please, I can't," Mulder moaned.
"Don't come, Fox," the older man ordered, slowly removing his finger. He held his lover's trembling body and toed off his shoes, stepping back briefly to let his shirt drop to the floor then he quickly removed his pants. He stared lovingly at Mulder from his kiss swollen lips to his swollen cock.
Skinner took the agent's hand and led him to the bed, pulling down the covers. He positioned Mulder on his back and crawled between his parted thighs, caressing the smooth skin there. The older man held out his hand, and a tube a lubricant appeared in it.
Mulder sat up and stared in awe. "Shit, Walter, when did you learn that trick? Alex can't even do that!"
"Floating objects from room-to-room seemed too time consuming. I tried for over a week to get an object from one room to the other by just teleporting it," Skinner replied matter-of-factly while he opened the lube. Pushing Mulder onto his back, he placed the agent's legs over his shoulders and applied the lubricant, stretching him.
"You practiced it and . . . God!" he gasped as Skinner inserted a fourth finger.
"Not even close, Fox." His lover removed his fingers and replaced them with his cock, pushing in. He watched as the tight opening closed around his cock, watching as he sunk deeper into his lover. Skinner brought his finger down to feel the rim of Mulder's taut hole as his cock slid inside.
He really enjoyed possessing his lover this way; it gave him a feeling of total ownership. Skinner wanted that feeling he didn't ever want to lose Mulder, and being buried to the root in the agent was the closest he came to owning him. Again, he ran his finger around their joined bodies, looking down into the younger man's aroused face.
Mulder watched Skinner's emotions flash over his face, the deep love the older man had for him was clearly written on his features. The agent reached up toward the older man's face and Skinner lowered his head toward Mulder's out stretched hand. The younger man removed his lover's glasses placing them on the nightstand.
Skinner smiled at him then pulled out slightly and pushed back in, setting a steady rhythm. Mulder pushed his hips back meeting him thrust for thrust. The older man reached down and stroked the agent's cock, bringing him quickly off. Milky white streams of come shot over his lover's chest. The tight heat of Mulder's rectum clenching around his cock was too much for Skinner and he came filling his lover's bowels.
He watched as his softening penis slipped out of Mulder and a small amount of his come ran down his lover's thighs. Skinner gently removed the agent's legs from his shoulders and scooted up next to him. He pulled Mulder into his arms and they shared a deep kiss before drifting off into a sated sleep.
***
Foxfire Glenn Estate
Monday, February 15
7:00 a.m.
Skinner got silently out of bed; he didn't want to wake his lover, it was still early. He was taking vacation this week and had called A.D. Murphy to get Mulder the day off.
He walked into their bathroom to take a quick shower. It still amazed him how large the rooms in this place were. He thought their bathroom at Viva Tower's was big, but it was nothing compared to this. The large oval whirlpool tub was in front of a bay window, looking out over their front yard. The outside glass was mirrored, preventing anyone from looking in, since the master bedroom and bath were on the first floor.
Skinner stepped under the shower spray it didn't take him long to wash and dry himself. Since their clothes were in a large walk-in-closet in the bathroom, he didn't have to go back into the room to dress, there was even a dressing area next to the closet.
The A.D. pulled out a pair of jeans from the built-in closet organizer. He had to open several of the drawers before he located where Krycek had put them. He noticed that only half of Mulder's clothes were in the closet, well, it would be easier for the agent to dress upstairs when he was sleeping with Krycek.
He pulled on an old sweatshirt he was going to do some woodworking out in the workshop today. The previous owner had left all of the power tools in the workshop to be sold with the estate.
He walked out of the bathroom and crept back up to the bed, looking down at his lover who was still soundly asleep. He kissed the agent on the head then left the bedroom, closing the door softly behind him. After the A.D. had left, the blankets on the bed lifted and an invisible form appear under them, they draped around it showing a human shape.
The entity gently caressed the agent's sleeping body. Mulder drifted toward consciousness, pushing back against the caressing hand. In his half awaken state he assumed it was Skinner.
The entity pushed him onto his side spooning behind him. It forced one of the agent's legs up, so it could access his nether regions, and softly caressed between the young man's parted thighs.
Mulder moaned softly with arousal, he still couldn't pull himself fully awake -- it all seemed dream-like to him. He felt a finger slip into him . . . then another carefully stretching him. When the cock pushed its way in, Mulder briefly thought that it seemed larger than Skinner's. He felt himself floating in ecstasy from the loving kisses being placed along his back as he was passionately being made love to. Mulder gave up trying to wake up, if this was a dream, he didn't want to interrupt it.
The agent felt his lover's hot release as stream after stream of come shot into his bowels. Again, Mulder thought it was strange that Skinner could have that much semen left after making love to him last night.
He felt the still hard cock being withdrawn from his body and the press of soft lips against his cheek as he drifted back to sleep.
The next thing Mulder was aware of was the delicious aroma of bacon, coffee, and maple syrup. There was another soft press of lips on his cheek and Skinner's voice in his ear. "Wake up, Fox, your breakfast is getting cold."
Mulder slowly opened his eyes and smiled warmly at his lover. "Breakfast in bed . . . you're going to spoil me."
"I wanted to mark the occasion . . . and, Fox, you deserve to be spoiled. Now sit up so I can put the tray down."
Mulder gingerly sat up, feeling sore from their early morning lovemaking, he groaned softly. Skinner looked at him questioningly, setting the tray across his lap.
"Still feeling it?" Skinner asked, thinking it was strange since Mulder usually recovered in a couple of hours and shouldn't be feeling a thing.
"Yeah, just a little, but it's the kind of pain I wish would stay around for a while," Mulder murmured, picking up the glass of orange juice.
"Why don't you grab a hot bath when you're done eating, then I'll give you the official tour of our new home," Skinner suggested, snatching a piece of bacon off the plate.
Mulder glanced around the room, it was already brightly lit from the sunlight pouring in through the windows. "This room looks completely different in the sunlight. We are planning to install blinds to keep it out. Aren't we?" He squinted his eyes against the bright glare.
"Why? I kind of like having the early morning sun . . . it's invigorating." Skinner smiled at the look of disgust on Mulder's face.
"I wonder if Krycek's room has blinds?" the agent muttered.
"Don't even think of using that as blackmail, Fox. Finish your breakfast, I'll be in the kitchen seeing to our guests," Skinner told him, affectionately ruffled his hair then heading out the door.
Mulder finished eating and lifted the tray off his lap. He climbed out of bed and headed into the bathroom. He whistled at the size and beauty of the room. The agent turned on the faucet to the large whirlpool tub, while waiting for it to fill, he checked out the rest of the bathroom. He stepped into a small dressing area, opening the doors to the closet. Mulder looked in amazement at the vastly organized room -- it had shelves, drawers, and rods. Their clothing didn't even fill a quarter of the space.
The agent came back into the bathroom checking on the bathtub, he was surprise to see it filled with bubble soap. He knew he hadn't put any in. He reasoned that there must have been some liquid bubble soap on the bottom of the tub. Mulder slowly eased himself into the steaming bath. Sighing with contentment, he closed his eyes and leaned back. After ten minutes of soaking, he sensed he was being watched and quickly opened his eyes.
"Walter mentioned you were up," Krycek said from the doorway, walking over and sitting on the edge of the tub. He put his hand in the water swirling around the bubbles.
"Yeah, I figured it was about time I got out of bed. I only have today off . . . I have to go into work tomorrow," Mulder groaned.
"I start back next Monday. I was going to save it as a surprise, but Walter has arranged with A.D. Murphy for me to be your partner again." Krycek smiled at the happy expression on Mulder's face upon hearing the news.
"That's great, Alex. It will make working out in the field less boring," he exclaimed with delight.
"Way less boring, my love. Turn around and I'll wash your back." Krycek picked up a washcloth, dipping it in the water; he poured some liquid soap on it and started washing his lover's back.
Mulder leaned back to soak when Krycek finished. "You're starting to wrinkle . . . I think you should get out. I'll get you something to wear while you dry off." He stood up and walked into the closet, pulling a pair of jeans out of one of the drawers and taking a soft cotton pullover off the hanger. Krycek went to get Mulder a pair of boxers to wear. When he opened the drawer where he had unpacked the agent's underwear, he made an interesting discovery.
Mulder had finished toweling off and emptying the bathtub. He looked up at Krycek who came back dangling a skimpy garment from one finger. "What's that?" the agent asked.
"You haven't seen it before? My, my . . . it seems brother dearest isn't a stuffed shirt after all. I found this in your underwear drawer," Krycek said, throwing the small piece of fabric at Mulder.
Mulder held it up and examined it. It was made of black silk, had a cup in front and a small strip of fabric connecting it up the back to the waistband. "It's a thong!" he sputtered. Not in his wildest imagination could he picture Skinner purchasing this for him.
"Put it on," Krycek demanded, dying to see what his lover looked like in it.
"Alex, I can't wear this . . . what if I get injured at work? What would people think?"
"You're not working today . . . put it on. You can wear your boxers at work . . . but at home sexy and skimpy will do nicely," Krycek smirked as Mulder gave in and pulled on the underwear.
"God, this feels so weird," Mulder stated, feeling the thin fabric strip slid between his buttocks. He adjusted himself in front; he was still smoothly shaved so no pubic hair wrecked the look of the thong.
"Fox, that is so hot! I'll have to get you several more . . . I'm getting hard just looking at you. Too bad we have guests in the house, it would be nice to keep you dressed only in that today," Krycek murmured, running his fingers over the skimpy garment. He handed Mulder the rest of his clothes.
Mulder grinned at the younger man; he was getting used to the feel of the thong. It did feel very erotic with the fabric wedge between his crack. He pulled on the rest of his clothing and sat to put on shoes and socks.
They left the bedroom and headed for the kitchen that was on the opposite end of the mansion. They passed the library, living room, and went through the family room into the kitchen. Yori was there, helping Skinner do the dishes. Frohike, Byers, and Langly were seated at the breakfast table drinking coffee. They all were wearing sunglasses and groaning occasionally. Mulder had never seen Byers looking so disheveled, or for that matter, with a hangover before.
"Hi, guys, how are we feeling this morning?" he asked in a loud cheerful voice.
Byers put his hand over his ears and groaned. Frohike glared up at him.
"Don't you have any respect for the near dead, keep your voice down," Langly complained, leaning back in his chair and smiling up at Mulder. He wasn't in as bad of shape as Byers or Frohike.
"Good morning, Mulder," Yori exclaimed happily, handing the agent a cup of coffee.
"Thanks, Yori," he said accepting the coffee and going over to sit down with the Gunmen. Krycek grabbed his own cup of coffee and joined them.
Watching the touchy-feely way Yori acted around Mulder reminded Skinner again that he wanted to have a private talk with the large Russian.
***
The Gunmen and Yori had departed at 1:00 p.m. Skinner was in the workshop making a cradle for Hope. He had a picture pasted on the shelf that he had cut out of a magazine. The picture showed a cradle in the shape of a swan, it had a long curving neck and the small bed was nestled between its wings. He was working from that picture to build the cradle.
Skinner glanced at his watch, it was after 5:00 p.m., and he put his tools away and decided to stop for the day. He wondered if Fox was back at the house, Fox and Alex had been over at the cottage helping Tony paint it.
The A.D. entered through the foyer and heard laughter coming from the kitchen. Krycek had Mulder's body trapped up against the counter and the agent's pants were unzipped and pulled partway down, his brother's hands were inside the fabric groping a feel. The agent was squirming and laughing. Skinner was a bit shocked to see the skimpy pair of underwear his lover was wearing. He wondered if they had been a gift from Krycek.
Mulder noticed him and pulled away from Krycek, pulling his pants back up. "Walter, how's the project going?" he asked slightly embarrassed.
"Fine . . . I see you started dinner," Skinner said, nodding toward the pots on the stove and the aroma coming from the oven.
"Yeah, Alex is helping me . . . nothing fancy just roasted chicken with a wild rice stuffing," he answered, swatting the younger man's hand away as he pinched his butt.
They were all so engrossed in each other that they didn't notice the dark shadow float across the room and up the back staircase.
***