Archive of Our Own ^beta

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Mulder had been putting the final touches on the nursery the past few weeks as they were getting ready for the birth of their baby. A daughter. A sweet baby girl. Mulder couldn’t wait to spoil her. Scully, however, had been acting off in her final weeks. She told him it was simply hormones and the anxiety that came with preparing for a baby, but he sensed it was more than that.

As Scully lay next to him one night, tossing and turning, he relented. “I can feel you thinking again,” he said.

“Can’t sleep,” she muttered.

“The baby?” It was a comment and a question.

“Like father, like daughter. She’s restless, but so is her mother.”

“Tell me what’s wrong Dana,” he pressed gently.

She sighed, sensing he wouldn’t give up until he got a satisfactory answer.

“I…I’m afraid.”

Mulder moved closer, spooning her from behind as he gently moved his hand over Scully’s abdomen. “Oh? But everything is fine…we’ve had several checkups. She’s going to be fine.”

Scully closed her eyes and shifted, turning to face him. “It’s not that. I…I’ve been having these dreams, flashbacks. Of people coming to take William. When I was giving birth to him…it was terrifying. And then he was abducted by that cult. Agent Comer….when he,” her voice broke. She couldn’t finish her words and Scully had spoken so little of that time, but he knew what she was talking about. That man was part of a religious cult and had tried to kill their son. “PTSD,” Mulder whispered. “You’re suffering from PTSD, Scully. I wasn’t there during that time and I couldn’t possibly even begin to imagine…though you had more restraint than I would have had. I would have killed every last one of them for even touching him.”

Scully knew he was right. There wasn’t a moment of hesitation when Mulder had killed his own father for shooting their son. He was alive and that was enough.

“But I’m here now, Scully. The threats against us are gone and no one will take her from us, I promise,” he soothed.

“I can’t lose her…I can’t.”

Mulder reached down to palm her abdomen and Scully’s hand settled over his. The baby always seemed to be more active when she was upset, as if to reassure her. Her heart ached to meet her daughter, to hold and love her with everything she had. At the same time, she wasn’t ready to lose the bond they shared by carrying her in her womb. She was warm and safe inside of her for now.

“If it makes you feel any better, I’m scared too.”

“You’re scared, Mulder?”

Mulder sighed. “I wasn’t around long after William was born and when I came back from my abduction, you were about to pop. Just when I had gotten used to the idea of being a father, it was gone. Now we’re going to be parents in our fifties…it’s going to be quite an adjustment, a good one of course.”

Scully smiled at the memory of the way Mulder’s eyes lit up the first time he held his son. “Oh I don’t know, I think you took to it quickly in that short time.”

“That’s true, but I’m going to need to learn to figure out her needs when she cries, how to burp her, put her in a swaddle, in a carseat and later, feed her. I did manage to get the diaper thing mastered last time…but again, it was so long ago,” he grinned.

Scully smiled. “Someone’s been busy.”

“Babies are so complicated. And even more so these days if Pinterest is anything to go by.”

That earned him a raised eyebrow. “You’re on Pinterest, Mulder?”

He shrugged. “Guilty…and I may or may not have watched some how-to’s on YouTube. Sue me.”

Scully smiled, taking his hand and bringing it to settle on her belly. “As much as I appreciate your dedication Mulder, no book is going to prepare us for the journey of parenthood. My mom told me children have many was of surprising us and we just have to go with it and do the best we can. Despite everything that has happened, I know you’ll be a wonderful father.”

“Thanks, Doc.” He looked into her eyes and she rewarded him with a small smile. “I mean if we’ve fought liver eating mutants…we can do this, right?”

Scully laughed. “You’re going to give her nightmares if you tell her those stories Mulder, but yes, point taken.”

“We’re really doing this,” Mulder admonished. It had been a few months since they had found out about the baby and yet he was in awe every single day. Scully shifted so Mulder was spooned against her.

“Night Scully…night little one,” he said as he gently rubbed her belly. They both smiled, feeling a kick in response before drifting off to sleep.

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Her due date looms closer and closer. The baby has dropped, she can feel it. It’s only a matter of time before their daughter makes her grand debut into the world. She hasn’t worked since that fateful night on the docks and she’s going stir crazy. The X-Files were closed and she was pretty sure that this time, it was for good.

Mulder returned to working on the book she told him to write all those years ago, but if she were honest with herself, half his time is spent inside the nursery, making her meals and laying beside her, talking to the baby.

“Conspiring together, as you so kindly put it, Scully.”

It was a welcome distraction from her otherwise anxiety riddled thoughts. What if something went wrong during the birth? What if they lost her? Her heart couldn’t bear it.

She stands outside at dawn one chilly fall morning, her hands moving in slow circles over her belly, relishing the movement of the life inside during the final days of pregnancy. Her lower back nagging from the girth of her midsection.

“It’s more than impossible.”

Scully lets out a barely audible gasp as she feels familiar hands move from behind to cover her own over the girth of her belly.

She was given not one, but two miracles and she was certain there wouldn’t be a third. The third miracle was Mulder’s presence for the entirety of this pregnancy.

She wasn’t forced to blurt out the news to Skinner in a dreary hospital room. The circumstances this time around had not been ideal as they both mourned their son, but she had been determined for Mulder to know before anyone else. She couldn’t take the risk of losing him again.

Her son had been at the forefront of her mind; he knew that she loved him and had asked her to let him go. And in those final moments on the dock, she granted him that final wish as she felt his mind push against her own, assuaging her that he would be fine. She needed Mulder too, to let go, to not allow William to become another Samantha. So, she did the only thing she knew how in that moment and pressed his hand against the growing life inside of her, much like their hands were intertwined. Only now, the life inside pressed back against them, demanding her presence to be known.

——–

Scully released a sigh as Mulder moved from his position behind her to stand in front of her. Their height difference becoming comical as her heels had retired their services within the past month.

Donned in one of his oversized button-up shirts, he couldn’t have found her sexier than he did right in that very moment. He’d be seeing stars if he admitted the things pregnant Scully did to him. Her belly swollen with his child, the buds of her plump braless breasts peeking out behind the soft fabric.

Scully moved her hands from their resting place on her belly to grasp his.

Mulder could always tell when something was off. “What’s wrong, Scully,” he pressed gently.

Scully averted her gaze, shaking her head. “I’m just…I’m worried something might go wrong, that we might…lose her.”

Mulder released his hand to cup her cheek, forcing her to make eye contact. She could see the fear mirrored in those hazel depths too.

“She’s gonna be okay, Scully. You both will. I’m not leaving that hospital without both of you with me.”

He moved his hand slowly along her jawline, pushing rebellious strands of hair from her face.

Though she put all of her faith in God and science, there was only one person that could put her worries at ease and he was standing in front of her.

“You should sit, Scully,” he said, glancing downward. Scully looked down at her feet, barely recognizable under the girth of the baby, and released a resigned sigh as she allowed Mulder to guide her over to the bench.

————

He kept hold of her right hand as she eased down onto the bench. Mulder resumed his place next to her as she closed her eyes and relished the fact that Mulder was here for all of this. Their first ultrasound, the morning sickness, the pants that no longer buttoned up, the first kicks as the baby started to recognize his voice, strange pregnancy cravings, Lamaze, and the nursery he worked tirelessly on.

Along with the firsts, came the fears. The blood work, the amniocentesis, the spotting and cramping that landed Scully in the hospital earlier on in the pregnancy.

“She’s strong,” the doctor had remarked.

“Just like her mother,” Mulder had whispered to Scully later.

As Scully dozed, she felt Mulder’s hand once again on the curve of her abdomen, moving in slow, gentle circles as the baby kicked from within.

They remained that way for what seemed like an eternity before Scully felt an all too familiar cramp rep across her abdomen, followed by a gush of warm fluid. She gasped, startling Mulder from his reverie. His face turned completely white with panic.

“Scully, what is it?!”

Scully smiled as the knowledge that he would be there for all of it. The sleepless nights, the diaper changes, the first words, the first steps. “It’s time, Mulder.”

The firsts of the many more firsts that awaited them.

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Scully's pregnancy progresses into the twenty-fifth week as they follow with cautious optimism. Everything had been fine until Scully developed gestational diabetes, diagnosed around the 25th week, which as she understood and the doctor explained, is more common in older mothers. “Hormones from the placenta can cause high blood sugar and block the action of the mother's insulin usage. The pancreas works harder to produce insulin, but it does not affect the high glucose levels that can still be passed to the baby,” she explained. Because Scully had preeclampsia when she was pregnant with William, they decided to monitor her more closely, just as a precaution. That's when Mulder notices the change in Scully.

Each time he started to talk about the baby, she immediately changed the subject. She took no interest in preparing the nursery and whenever the baby caught her by surprise by drumming its foot into her side, she'd catch herself as she moved to touch her abdomen, almost as if she were afraid to connect with the small life within.

Scully sat at the table, doing her third round of glucose level checks for the day. Mulder hesitates, unsure of how to approach her. She had to be on a special low sugar, low carb diet for the remainder of the pregnancy and Scully was always amazing in that regard. He knew she'd do everything she could to put their baby's health first.

Mulder takes a seat opposite her and she offers him a small smile that makes his heart swell. She places the small test strip into the glucose meter. They sit in silence for a few moments before Scully lets out a small sigh as she reads the results out loud. “110,” she says methodically as if she were talking to a patient.

Mulder looks over as she jotted down the number on a notepad.

“That's… that's good, right?”

Scully places the pen down and grabs a tissue to dab at her hand. She sighs as she observes the callouses that had formed in the past two weeks from the constant pricking before turning back to Mulder.

“Yeah, it is. Under 120 is good, Mulder.”

Mulder lets out a breath he hasn’t realized he had been holding. He reaches for Scully's hands, which she reluctantly offers. He gently smoothes his thumbs over the palms of her hands as he looks them over, frowning at the many callouses that formed.

“Please tell me you're not doing a palm reading,” she eyes him suspiciously.

Mulder meets her gaze with a playful grin. “Just a little prick,” he mutters. Scully laughs as he gently kisses her fingertips.

----

A few more weeks pass and with time, Mulder notices the evident change in Scully's demeanor. Scully's glucose readings and ultrasound follow-ups have indicated nothing but a healthy baby.

It hits him full force one night as he lay spooned beside her, his hand pressed against the cocoon that held their miracle inside. The baby kicks and Scully doesn't react, but he's thankful she doesn't pull away.

“We should decide on a name for her soon,” he muses.

Scully sighs. “We have time. Maybe we should decide if… when she's born,” she says, nonchalantly.

Mulder catches on to the slip, he sighs heavily.

“Scully, what's wrong? What's going on?”

Scully squeezes her eyes shut against the darkness of the room. “Nothing is wrong, Mulder.”

Growing frustrated, Mulder pulls away. “Scully...something is clearly wrong. In a matter of weeks, you've been distant and won't talk about the baby, you won't go into the nursery. You act like she doesn't exist.” He isn't sure if it was the right thing to say, but he couldn't help it nonetheless.

Scully pushes herself to an upright position. “That's ridiculous, Mulder. I'm the one carrying her.”

“That's not what I mean and you know it,” he persists. “You're afraid to say it… a fear that we both share.”

Scully freezes as Mulder continues. 

“I know you spent a great deal of your life not allowing yourself to get close to people, as have I. I mean, Spooky Mulder doesn’t exactly have a very inviting reputation. We’ve both, lost so much,” he says with a sigh. “And I’m not a man of faith, but, I believe in you and I want to believe that our daughter will be just fine.”

Tears well in Scully’s eyes as she processes what Mulder is saying. Once again, he hit the nail on the head.

“I just, I can’t lose her, Mulder. It’d kill me. I’m afraid to hope.”

Mulder drops to his knees in front of her and pulls her hands back into his. “I know. I do. But we have to believe everything will be fine after everything we’ve been through. I’m here, every step of the way,” he soothes, running his thumb over the back of her right hand. “I promise.”

Scully nods as she let the tears fall. “Thank you,” she whispers, barely audible.

Mulder reaches out and brushes them away as Scully moves her hands protectively to her belly, relishing the feel of their impossible miracle moving within. She loved the baby so much that her heart ached desperately. For as much as she was afraid, she also couldn’t wait to hold their baby in her arms for the very first time.

Mulder moves to rest his head against Scully’s belly as Scully moves to thread her fingers through his hair. 

“Mommy worries about you so much, Little One, but I know you’re just fine, because you’re strong, just like her.”

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Scully's mind was racing as they got into the car and for the first time, she was grateful Mulder had decided to drive. She was supposed to be there for him. He had never really processed William's absence in the same way she had all these years until now. Of course, he hadn't, he had been putting his feelings aside for her sake.

She bit her lip as a rush of unshed tears threatened to fall. Her thoughts drifted from losing William and then feeling his presence, knowing he was alive, to their unborn baby, whose heart had just recently started to beat steadily inside of her. She shook her head and resisted the urge to touch the bump that was slowly, but surely about to make itself known.

She couldn't think about the baby. She didn't deserve this child, not after everything that happened. Not with their son out there and all alone. At the same time, her heart ached at the news. Seeing and hearing its beating heart, against all odds, all too reminiscent of the first time. But it was different, Mulder was here to share this journey with her.

Scully closed her eyes, praying Mulder wouldn't see the tears that sprung free as she held back a sob. For a while, it seemed as if he was stuck in a trance. He said nothing as he stared out into the streets before them.

She finally allowed the fatigue of the past days' events to envelope her as she settled against the headrest of the passenger seat.

----------

Mulder was overwhelmed with emotion. Rage at witnessing his son get shot at the hand of his father, as himself no less, to sorrow and brief joy at Scully's news. He had wanted this so much for her, for them, and yet they couldn't entertain it as they deserved. Instead, they cried for the loss of William and the undoubtedly difficult road ahead. One thing was clear though, he knew the moment Scully brought his hand to her belly that he was immediately in love.

As he looked over at her in the seat beside him, he watched her finally succumb into a restless semblance of sleep. Her head found its place on his shoulder as her hand flinched just slightly before drawing it toward her abdomen. For a moment, it seemed as if she hesitated, afraid to accept the miraculous life inside after everything they'd been through. The internal battle wavered until it came to rest on the soft bump that was now visibly peeking through her unbuttoned blazer. It was then that he wondered how far along she was, but it didn't take long to do the math.

Her hand made unconscious soothing strokes over her abdomen before it settled and he realized that perhaps she was dreaming. His right hand reached for her free one and though she clasped it immediately, she did not stir.

They were going to have a baby.

They were going to have a baby.

He couldn't help but smile in spite of himself. He was still in shock, but his heart lurched at the thought of the tiny being that was growing inside the love of his life. Their light in the darkness.

Everything was going to be okay.

Chapter Text

Tumblr Prompt: Can you write a story where mulder and scully get into a huge fight while she's pregnant? Your stuff is always great!

Thanks to Jeri for the beta!

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The days following the loss of their son and the death of the Cigarette Smoking Bastard turned into weeks and then months. Amazingly enough, Reyes had made a quicker turnaround in terms of recovery than Skinner, despite a bullet meant to kill. In Scully’s vision, Monica had said they were both protected, part of the chosen elite. Had it had anything to do with her miraculous recovery? Anyhow, both would make a full recovery, however, Skinner had to learn to walk again due to the extent of broken bones and hardware placed into his body.

They were having a baby. Despite having four months to get used to this fact, both Scully and Mulder woke up each morning, expecting everything to be a dream. Today Mulder awoke to the sound of muffled sobbing and sniffling coming from down the hall. He turned to the space in the bed beside him, long departed as the sheets were cool to the touch.

He was immediately on his feet, his need to tend to Scully instinctive. He quickly padded down the hall in nothing but a pair of boxes as he made his way toward the sound.

He stopped in front of the nursery as he saw Scully sitting in the rocking chair, clutching a stuffed Fox in her arms amid the sea of earthy neutrals that would be their daughter's nursery.

Scully was unaware of the sudden intrusion until he called her name. "Scully?"

She startled slightly, quickly wiping the evidence from her face, a habit that never died even over many years of living together.

"What's wrong?" He said, moving into the room as Scully continued the feeble attempt at gathering herself.

He was immediately beside her as she set the small stuffed toy aside. The fact that Scully had already gotten dressed for the day was lost on him.

"I...I'm not sure I can do this."

Mulder shook his head. They'd had similar conversations over the past few months and he had to admit becoming a father again in his fifties was a lot to swallow.

He moved to place his hand on Scully's ever-expanding baby bump.

"I think it might be a little late for that discussion now," he said in a feeble attempt at that signature Mulder humor.

She wasn’t having any of it.

"We're going to be parents again in three months."

"Thank you, Captain Obvious," she scoffed with an eyeroll.

He knew it was hormones. They were all over the place as of late. He wasn’t as acquainted with the fluctuations. Mulder only had a limited amount of experience with them the first time around. It was one of the many regrets.

Not much he could do about it, of course.

"But, that's not what I mean," she continued, pushing herself off the chair, causing Mulder to stumble out of the way.

He watched as she placed a gentle hand on the sage green painted walls before moving toward the crib.

"What do you mean, Scully?" He asked, trying his best to keep the annoyance at bay.

Scully gazed at the small assortment of forest stuffed animals in the crib, a forlorn expression that he didn't much like settled across her face.

"I couldn't care for William. How do we know this baby will be any different? That she won't be like William? Running for her life someday?"

Mulder shook his head as he stood and walked toward her. "Dana…"

She shook her head, the tears beginning to flow freely again as she moved toward the object that brought her here, that always drew her here.

Mulder watched as she gingerly picked up the repaired snowglobe off the shelf near a 3D framed image of their daughter's face.

"It will be different this time," Mulder continued, reaching for the small of her back.

"How do you know, you weren't there!" She spat the words out faster than she could pull them back.

Mulder felt as if he'd been punched in the gut. They rarely talked about William until these past few months, when he came back into their lives.

"Well, it's not exactly like I had a choice," he shot back before he could even consider the implications those words would have.

She whirled around, as much as any pregnant woman could do anyways as her center of gravity had shifted. Clutching the snowglobe in between shaking hands, she shook her head.

"I gotta go," her voice broke.

Before Mulder could respond, she pushed past him, making her way down the stairs as he trailed after her.

"Scully!"

As she crossed the living room and to the door, Mulder had the weirdest sense of déjà vu. How many times had she walked out on him before?

He watched as the love of his life, carrying their child, retreated down the steps as she had done many times before and followed behind her as he always had, lack of clothes be damaged.

"Scully, I'm-"

"No. You're right, Mulder. I made the choice for you to go. I chose to give William...Jackson away," she sobbed. "I don't deserve this child. To be her mother."

Mulder opened his mouth in response but before he could respond, she was retreating down the driveway, leaving him with a broken heart as she had many times before.

He stood there, blissfully unaware of his lack of clothing, frozen in place for a good several minutes, trying to process what happened. He was certain they were passed any blame that they carried regarding William.

Mulder sat in the livingroom. Unsure of what to do. He started to reach for his phone to dial Scully's number, only to realize she had left her phone behind in her hasty getaway.

Hours had passed and with every second that ticked on by, Mulder started to worry if Scully would return or not.

"Let's get out of here. As far away from the darkness as we can get,"

That old mantra Scully had reiterated to him in the church. Their vow to each other during their elopement in the Bahamas.

"I always wondered how this was gonna end."

They vowed to move forward together, come what may. Away from the darkness and into their new lives. Even if the darkness had a way of finding them both, they would do it together. If he had learned anything over the past few years, it was that he would wait however long it took for Scully to come back. To give her the time and space she needed. And he would wait as long as it took.

The sound of his phone startled him from his desk and he looked around, realizing darkness had set in as he napped. The phone continued its offensive sound until he reached for it. The glowing letters on the screen read "OLOS Hospital". Scully's hospital. But she wasn't returning to work until after the baby was born.

He frowned as he answered the call. "Mulder."

"Fox Mulder? Doctor Scully's husband, right?" The unfamiliar voice on the other end questioned.

"Yes. Is something the matter? As far as I know, Doctor Scully is on maternity leave for another few months."

He noted the urgency in the woman's voice as she continued. "No, the reason I'm calling is because your wife has been admitted to the hospital."

Mulder was at his feet faster than the speed of light as he grabbed his keys. "What? What happened? Is she okay? Is the baby okay?"

"They're both stable, Mr. Mulder. But you should get here as soon as you can. That's all I can say over the phone, I'm afraid."

Once the line went dead, he felt himself hurdle the phone toward the door. If anything happened to either one of them, he wasn't sure he'd survive.

The drive to the hospital was longer than anything he'd ever experienced in his life.

"She started having contractions," the doctor had informed him after he all but demanded to her and the attending physician.

He knew very little when it came to pregnancy and childbirth, but he knew it was too soon for the baby to come.

They'd known the pregnancy was a high-risk one due to Scully's age, but everything had been progressing as it should, so they had no reason to worry. However, Scully had been advised not to return to work until the baby was born to prevent any possible complications.

As Mulder stood in Scully's hospital room, watching her as she dozed, he couldn't help but recall another time that was eerily similar to this one. Not realizing how afraid he was until he heard the words placental abruption. Scully's doctor had said that they managed to stop the contractions, but that they would need to monitor her for a while. He wouldn't be able to live with himself if he found out he had caused undue stress to put her in this situation. He loved them both more than life itself.

Just like before, Scully was out due to the drugs she was on, but he couldn't help but settle a projective hand on her abdomen. He could have sworn he felt the baby move against him as Scully began to stir.

"Mulder," she gasped.

He was immediately urging her back into the bed. "Scully, not so fast. You need to rest."

Scully sighed, placing her hands around her abdomen as she moved them in gentle, circular motions.

"They told me they managed to stop the contractions," he started as Scully nodded.

“Stubborn already,” Scully held a breath. “She’s getting a double dose of it. Lucky, this time.”

"I'm sorry," his voice broke. "I'm so sorry, Scully. This happened because of me."

Scully reached for him as he settled beside her. "No, no, it's not. I'm the one to blame. I feel like I willed my fears into existence. God, Mulder, I was so afraid I'd lose her and that it would be my fault."

"Why didn't you call me? I would have done anything. Been there in a breath."

"I was afraid," she cried.

As much as he could, he pulled Scully into an embrace.

As much as he could, anyway. "I know. I am too. I can never imagine what happened before, but I'm here now and I'm not going anywhere."

"I know, I know you are. So much was taken from us. I know I've loved this baby since the moment I found out I was pregnant," her voice crackled as her hands found their way to cradle her belly. "She's stuck with us."

Mulder chuckled as he moved his hand beside Scully's, both of them relishing the movement coming from within.

"Please grow healthy and strong, little one. We can't wait to meet you."

End

Chapter Text

Scully, now twenty-eight weeks pregnant, was exhausted and beginning to feel the increased strain of her growing belly. She began to show much quicker than she remembered from her first pregnancy with William, which she knew was common in subsequent pregnancies, no matter how far removed they were. Her back ached, and the unseasonably rainy day seemed to intensify her discomfort. “I’m too old for this,” she muttered.

Mulder noticed Scully's discomfort as they settled on the couch, watching the raindrops slide down the windowpane. "You okay, Scully?" he asked with genuine concern.

Scully smiled weakly, trying to brush off her discomfort. "I'm fine, Mulder, just a little backache. It's nothing to worry about." In the grand scheme of things, she was blessed that everything was as it should be, all things considered. She was 54 and their baby girl was healthy and thriving inside of her, it was everything they hoped for. However, that didn’t mean this pregnancy didn’t come without its share of challenges.

Mulder had witnessed firsthand the difficulties Scully had faced during her pregnancy, and he was determined to make her feel as comfortable as possible. "Let me try something," he said, standing up and offering his hand to help her up as well.

Scully accepted his hand and followed him to the living room, where Mulder had laid out a yoga mat. "What are you up to, Mulder?" she asked curiously.

"I read that prenatal yoga can help with back pain," he replied, kneeling down on the mat. "Come, sit here."

Scully couldn’t help but smile at the sentiment and hesitated for a moment, but the pain in her back urged her to give it a try. She settled on the mat in front of Mulder, who began guiding her through gentle stretching exercises. He made sure to modify the poses to suit her pregnant body.

As Scully moved through the yoga sequence, she felt the tension in her back slowly easing. She looked back at Mulder, grateful for his thoughtfulness and support. "This feels good," she admitted.

Mulder smiled warmly. "I'm glad it's helping. You've been through so much, Scully. I want to do whatever I can to make this journey a little easier for you."

Scully's heart swelled with affection for her partner. Despite all the darkness, they faced these past several years, he had always been a source of light and comfort for her. He was so excited to be a father, it made all the aches and pains worth it. They continued the yoga session, and Mulder even made her laugh with his attempts at some of the more challenging poses.

After they finished, Scully found herself feeling significantly better. Her back pain had subsided, and she felt a sense of relaxation she hadn't experienced in a while. "Thank you, Mulder," she said, touching his hand gently.

Mulder shook his head, his eyes full of tenderness. "Don't mention it, Scully. I'm just glad I could help."

They spent the rest of the evening cuddled up on the couch, talking about the baby and their hopes and dreams for the future. Mulder brought out a bowl of popcorn, and they enjoyed a movie together, both content in each other's company. He would talk to their baby and she’d deliver fierce kicks to her mother’s abdomen in response.

As the night wore on and the rain outside finally subsided, Mulder helped Scully to their bedroom and helped her get comfortable in bed, arranging pillows to support her back. He then leaned down to place a gentle kiss on her lips.

"I love you, Scully," he whispered.

"I love you too, Mulder," she replied, holding his hand tightly.

At that moment, Scully knew she was blessed to have Mulder by her side, not just as a partner in their work but also as a caring and supportive partner in life. His love and thoughtfulness had a magic touch that made everything seem a little brighter, even in the darkest of times. To move back home had been the right choice and she had experienced a homesickness she didn’t realize she’d been feeling for so long. Together, they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing they had each other to lean on.

And so, as the night faded away, they fell asleep, side by side, with their hearts entwined and their bond growing stronger with every passing day.

Chapter Text

Their daughter, Katie or Kit, as Mulder had decided while she was still in her mother’s womb, had arrived, happy and healthy, filling their lives with a new sense of purpose and joy. They had exchanged their high-stress jobs for a quieter life, opting to reside in the unremarkable house, hoping it would be a haven for their newfound family. Scully would return to the hospital part-time after maternity leave and Mulder would take on some consulting projects as he finished his book.

Mulder and Scully quickly realized that navigating parenthood was an entirely different challenge compared to their days spent chasing the paranormal especially as they were much older than other parents. Sleepless nights were now the norm, as little Kit seemed to have an aversion to sleep, preferring the midnight hours for cooing and crying as newborns do.

As they stood together in the dimly lit nursery, which was painted a sage green and decorated with blush pinks and forest animals, they watched their daughter fuss and wriggle. Mulder couldn't help but crack a small smile. "I wonder what she's dreaming about," he mused, his eyes fixated on Kit's tiny face.

Scully sighed softly, gently rocking Kit in her arms. "I'm not sure, but I hope it's not aliens or monsters," she replied with a playful grin.

The nights became long and challenging, but Mulder and Scully approached parenthood with their usual determination and teamwork. They took turns comforting Kit, pacing the living room in the wee hours, whispering soothing words and singing lullabies that Mulder had discovered in an old X-File about nursery rhymes. While they might not have solved the mystery of sleep deprivation just yet, they were in this together, and that made all the difference.

Scully sat comfortably in the nursery, a sense of peace washing over her as she cradled Kit in her arms. The soft glow of the nightlight illuminated the room, creating an intimate ambiance between mother and child. Kit's tiny hand clasped onto Scully's finger, her daughter’s eyes locked onto her with the purest gaze she had ever seen.

Breastfeeding had become a cherished routine for Scully and Kit, a time for them to connect in a way that was both primal and profound. She marveled at the miracle of life as her body provided nourishment for her growing daughter, a bond that was uniquely theirs.

Scully adjusted her position, bringing Kit closer to her chest, and she latched on instinctively, her tiny mouth eagerly seeking sustenance. As she nursed, Scully gently stroked her soft chestnut hair with her free hand, savoring the sensation of their skin touching and the rhythmic rise and fall of her breath against her.

In those quiet moments, Scully's mind wandered back to the journey that had led her here. The years of investigating the unexplained, the loss and heartache they had endured, and the moments of doubt and uncertainty had all culminated in this precious gift she held in her arms. Kit was a symbol of hope and love, a beacon of light in a world that often seemed shrouded in darkness. This impossible miracle made her a mother again.

She felt a profound sense of gratitude for this little life she had helped bring into the world, and for Mulder who had stood by her side through it all. He had been her rock, supporting her throughout the challenges of pregnancy and childbirth, and embracing the role of a devoted father with enthusiasm and tenderness as she knew he would.

As Kit finished nursing, her eyes slowly began to drift shut, her tiny body content and comforted. Scully carefully burped her, enjoying the gentle coos and sighs that escaped her as she settled into her arms. She couldn't help but smile, overwhelmed by the depth of her love for this precious little being.

In those quiet, private moments, Scully felt an unbreakable connection to her daughter. It was as if the act of breastfeeding transcended the physical exchange of milk; it became a sacred bond that united them on a level beyond words. She knew that she would do anything to protect her, nurture her, and guide her through life's twists and turns.

As she lay Kit down in her crib, she brushed a tender kiss on her forehead and whispered, "Sleep tight my little one. I'll be right here whenever you need me."

In the darkness of the nursery, Scully quietly left the room, her heart full of love and contentment. She knew that the journey of motherhood had only just begun, with its challenges and joys yet to unfold, but she was ready to embrace it all – armed with the strength of a mother's love and the knowledge that she and Kit shared an unbreakable bond, nurtured with each precious moment spent breastfeeding.

During the day, Mulder reveled in his role as a father and it made Scully’s heart surge each time she watched the two of them together. He'd cradle Kit in his arms and tell her wild tales about his adventures, substituting UFOs with flying storks and mythical creatures for gentle, fantastical animals. Scully would often roll her eyes and tell him not to scare their daughter, but secretly, she appreciated the whimsy he brought to their lives.

Mulder's heart swelled with love and awe as he cradled his baby girl in his arms. Her tiny fingers wrapped around his thumb, and he marveled at the fragility and resilience of this little being. He had always been a man of mysteries and enigmas, but nothing could compare to the wonder he felt holding his own flesh and blood, a feeling he’d only been able to capture once before, so many years ago.

Mulder had been looking forward to bonding with Kit ever since they found out they were having a girl. As he gazed into her eyes, he couldn't help but see flickers of Scully in her features, and he knew that this little girl would have the same determination and strength that had captivated him from the moment they met.

He'd spend hours with Kit, talking to her about everything and anything, even though he knew she couldn't understand a word he said. Mulder had a penchant for storytelling, and he'd regale her with tales of his adventures as an X-Files agent. Kit would coo and babble in response as if she knew he was sharing a special part of himself with her.

One of Mulder's favorite activities with Kit was dancing. He'd put on some old rock 'n' roll tunes and sway gently with her in his arms, feeling the beat of the music coursing through their bodies. It was their private dance party, or so he thought, a moment of joy amidst the chaos of the world.

Through the ups and downs of parenthood, Mulder cherished the moments he spent with Kit, knowing that they were creating memories that would last a lifetime. He couldn't wait to see what the future held for his daughter, but he knew one thing for certain - their bond was unbreakable, and he would always be there for her, just as he knew Scully would be.

In Kit, Mulder found a kindred spirit, someone who reminded him of the beauty and magic of life. She was his little miracle, and he was determined to be the best father he could be for her, navigating the mysteries of parenthood with the same sense of wonder and determination that had defined his life as an X-Files agent. Together, they were a team, ready to face whatever the world had in store for them.

As Kit began to grow, so did their love for her. They marveled at each new milestone, from her first giggle to her tiny hands grasping at their fingers. Mulder and Scully's hearts swelled with pride, in utter disbelief that this tiny impossible baby was theirs.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink and gold, Mulder and Scully found themselves on the porch of the unremarkable house, watching Kit sleeping soundly in her crib through the window.

"You know, Scully," Mulder began, breaking the comfortable silence between them, "I used to believe that the truth was 'out there,' and maybe it still is. But right now, the truth is right here, in this house, at this moment."

Scully turned to him, a tender smile gracing her lips. "You're right, Mulder. Our little family is the most remarkable thing in the world to me. I wouldn't trade this for anything."

Mulder and Scully sat together on the couch in their living room, the soft glow of the evening sun casting a warm light across the room. Between them lay their three-month-old baby girl nestled in a soft blanket, her eyes blinking sleepily as she observed her surroundings.

Mulder gently brushed a finger against Kit's tiny hand, causing her to close her fingers around his in a gentle grip. He smiled down at her, his heart full of wonder and love. "She's amazing, Scully," he said, his voice soft with awe.

Scully nodded, a radiant smile spreading across her face. "Yes, she is," she replied, her voice filled with a mix of tenderness and pride. "I love her so much."

Mulder leaned over and pressed a soft kiss on the top of Kit's head, inhaling the sweet scent of baby shampoo. "It's incredible, isn't it?" he said, his eyes never leaving his daughter's face. "How someone so small can bring so much joy and meaning to our lives."

Scully's hand found Mulder's, and their fingers intertwined as they sat together, savoring the quiet moment. Kit let out a soft coo, and Scully chuckled. "She's quite the chatterbox, just like her father," she said affectionately, looking at Mulder with a fond smile.

Mulder raised an eyebrow playfully. "Are you saying I talk too much, Scully?" he teased, his eyes twinkling.

Scully laughed softly. "You know what I mean," she replied, giving his hand a playful squeeze. "But I wouldn't have it any other way. I love listening to you talk about everything and anything, especially when it's about her."

As they continued to marvel at their daughter, Mulder and Scully found themselves reflecting on the journey that had brought them to this moment - a journey filled with challenges, heartaches, and moments of joy. But they both knew that Kit was their greatest gift, a testament to their love and resilience.

"She's got your eyes," Mulder remarked, his voice tinged with emotion. "And your strength, Scully. I can see it already."

Scully leaned against Mulder's shoulder, resting her head on him. "And she's got your hair and your sense of wonder, Mulder," she said softly.

Mulder wrapped an arm around Scully, pulling her closer, creating a cocoon of love and warmth around their little family.

At that moment, as they sat together, Mulder, Scully, and Kit, they knew that they were embarking on a new chapter of their lives - one filled with the joys and challenges of parenthood. And as they looked at their daughter, they knew that love would guide them through every step of the journey, making them stronger, closer, and more complete than ever before.

Chapter Text

In the later stages of her pregnancy, Scully found herself facing migraines that seemed to strike with increased frequency and intensity. The hormonal changes and physical strain of carrying a baby were taking their toll as the months rolled on, and Scully tried her best to cope with the added burden of migraines.

One evening, as the sun was setting and casting a warm glow through the windows of their home, Scully felt the familiar pulsating pain. She retreated to the couch, closing her eyes in an attempt to find some relief. Mulder, who had been in the kitchen, was highly perceptive to her discomfort and was immediately at her side.

"Scully, are you okay?" Mulder asked with concern, crouching beside her.

Scully let out a soft sigh. "Just a migraine," she replied, trying to downplay the pain.

Mulder gently brushed a strand of hair away from her face. "Is there anything I can do to help?"

Scully appreciated his concern and reached for his hand, squeezing it reassuringly. "Just having you here with me is enough," she said, offering him a small smile. "I'm okay, promise."

Mulder's eyes softened with affection. "Well, I can at least try to make you more comfortable," he said. "Would you like some water or a cold compress?"

"Water would be nice," Scully replied, grateful for his attentiveness.

Mulder quickly fetched a glass of water and returned to her side. He sat beside her on the couch, gently placing the glass on the coffee table within her reach once she was finished. "Take it easy, Scully," he said, his voice soothing.

As the minutes passed, Scully sipped on the water once more, and with her head nestled on his thigh, Mulder gently massaged her temple, hoping to alleviate some of the tension. He knew he couldn't make the migraine disappear, but he wanted to do whatever he could to provide comfort.

"Thank you, Mulder," Scully murmured, feeling the soothing touch of his fingers.

Mulder smiled. "Anytime, Scully. I wish I could take away your pain."

"Just being here with me is enough," Scully repeated, her heart swelling with love.

Mulder remained by Scully's side throughout the evening. His company offered a reassuring presence and he engaged her in light conversation. He knew that sometimes the best way to help was simply to be there, supporting her in any way he could. With his therapist's help, he was coming to the realization that he couldn't fight Scully's troubles as much as he tried.

In the days and weeks that followed and as Scully's pregnancy progressed, Mulder researched natural remedies for migraines, dimmed the lights in their home, and even learned acupressure techniques to help ease her discomfort thanks to YouTube. She was going through so much to bring their miracle into the world, it was the least he could offer.

Their bond deepened through these moments of vulnerability and care, reinforcing the unbreakable connection between them. Together, they faced the challenges of pregnancy, knowing that no matter what came their way, they could depend on each other for unwavering support and love. As they eagerly awaited the arrival of their child, they both knew that they were ready to face the joys and challenges of parenthood together, hand in hand.

Chapter Text

Dana Scully paced anxiously around the living room of their unremarkable home. The muted sounds of rain tapping against the windows provided a calming backdrop, but her nerves were still on edge. She was due any day now, and every twinge, every ache, sent a fresh wave of anxiety through her. Though she’d been through this once before, it had been so many years, it was like experiencing everything all over again for the first time. She glanced at the clock. It was 10:30 PM. Where was Mulder?

Mulder had promised to be home early that evening. They had been bickering a lot lately, mostly about trivial matters. But tonight, they had a full-blown argument that left both of them frustrated and upset, and it seemed that, lately, they were more at odds than ever before.

Scully sighed, sinking onto the couch. She rubbed her swollen belly, whispering soft, soothing words to her unborn child. The argument had revolved around one of Mulder's wild theories, which Scully had grown tired of dismissing. Their words had escalated, leading to him storming out of the house in a huff. 

“Scully, you're not even considering the evidence! This could be a breakthrough in our search for the truth.”

Scully sighed. “Mulder, we've been down this road before. I can't keep chasing shadows. Not now.”

“Scully, you said it yourself that this was why you fell in love with me, what’s changed?”

Scully shook her head. “Nothing and everything. My feelings for you haven’t changed, but Mulder, we’re in our fifties and having a baby.”

Mulder huffed, his voice laced with irritation. “I know that.”

“I'm holding onto rationality, Mulder. We have a child to consider now.”

“What are you saying, Scully?” his voice teetered.

Scully’s voice hardens as she takes a step closer to him, placing her hand on her abdomen, torn between frustration and overwhelming love for this man and the miracle between them.

“And what happens when we follow your hunches and they lead us nowhere? We waste time and resources and put ourselves in unnecessary danger.”

Mulder leaned in closer. “You signed up for this knowing what we were up against. You said it yourself that you wouldn’t change a day. What happened?”

Scully sighs, her tone less combative. “Mulder, I believe in the truth as much as you do. You know that. But we have to be careful not to lose ourselves in this endless pursuit. We have a life, a home, and another child on the way. I can't keep living like this.”

The words struck a cord within Mulder, and Scully regretted them almost immediately as they came out.

As she watched his expression shift, she knew he was reexperiencing the pain that was their separation, and on some level, she was too. 

Scully reached for his hand with her free one. “Mulder, I…”

She gasped as he pulled back from her reach and turned toward the door. He couldn’t go back there, not now.

“I need to go, Scully.”

Her heart broke as she recalled a familiar scenario several years ago. “It’s like you said, it’s why we can’t be together. ”

Scully was just about to call him when a sudden pang shot through her abdomen. She gasped and clutched her belly, the pain intensifying. Panic flooded her as she realized that this might be it – labor had started. Her heart raced, and she fumbled for her phone, trembling fingers dialing Mulder's number.

Meanwhile, Mulder sat alone in his car, raindrops tapping rhythmically on the roof. The drive had done little to soothe his anger, but as the minutes ticked by, his frustration was slowly replaced by guilt. He glanced at his phone, seeing missed calls and messages from Scully. His stomach knotted as he listened to her voicemail, her voice strained with pain.

"Mulder, it's happening. I'm in labor. Please, please, I need you to come home."

Fear clutched at his chest, and he cursed himself for letting his stubbornness get in the way. He turned the car around, speeding back toward home, heart racing faster than the raindrops on the windshield.

Inside their home, Scully fought back tears as she hung up the phone. She knew she needed to stay calm for the baby's sake, but the pain was overwhelming. Just as she was about to call for an ambulance, the front door burst open. Mulder stood there, soaked from the rain, eyes wide with concern.

"Scully, I'm so sorry," he breathed, rushing to her side.

She managed a weak smile, tears mingling with raindrops on her cheeks. "Just... be here now."

He nodded, helping her to her feet, and supporting her as they made their way to their car. The hospital felt impossibly far away, every bump in the road sending shocks of pain through her body. Mulder's knuckles were white as he gripped the steering wheel, his worry evident in his clenched jaw. All these months, he worried for Scully, for their baby, and any complications that might arise. He knew with every fiber of his being that he couldn’t lose either of them.

At the hospital, the hours seemed to blur together. Scully's contractions grew more intense, and she gripped Mulder's hand in a vice-like grip, tears streaming down her face. He whispered words of encouragement, his worry and guilt driving him to be the supportive partner she needed.

“Subsequent pregnancies have a faster labor,” Scully had told him. Something he had immediately recalled from reading all the “What to Expect” books, but it did little to soothe his worry.

As the final stages of labor approached, Scully's grip on Mulder's hand tightened even further. Her breathing grew labored, and her face contorted with the effort. Mulder watched with a mixture of awe and concern, feeling a rush of emotions he couldn't put into words. He had missed the first time, this was completely foreign to him.

And then, finally, he heard the first cries of their baby daughter. Relief washed over him, and he squeezed Scully's hand, tears welling up in his eyes. The doctor held up their newborn, a tiny, fragile life that was the embodiment of their love and partnership.

Scully let out a shaky laugh through her tears. "You almost missed it again, Mulder."

He chuckled, a mixture of relief and exhaustion in his voice. "I'm here now, Scully. I wouldn't have missed this for the world."

As they held their baby for the first time, Mulder and Scully's arguments and frustrations seemed distant and insignificant. At that moment, all that mattered was the new life they had brought into the world, a reminder of the strength of their bond and the love that had carried them through even the toughest of times.

Chapter Text

"Mulder, you really should be more careful," Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Dakota Whitney said. Her fingers reached out uninvited, brushing against the reddened skin of his cheek.

Scully's heart skipped a beat as she watched Whitney's hand make contact with Mulder’s jaw, her stomach churning with a mixture of unease and something she couldn't quite pinpoint. She felt a surge of protectiveness, an instinctual need to assert her place.

Scully's smile wavered as she watched the interaction, her maternal instincts kicking in. She felt a pang of jealousy she hadn't anticipated, a familiar feeling from years ago, the protective instincts intensified by her pregnancy.

"Agent Whitney," Scully interjected, her tone firm, laced with irritation. "I think Mulder's got it covered. We appreciate your concern, but this is hardly the first time he's nicked himself while shaving."

Whitney's hand recoiled slightly, and Scully caught the flash of surprise in her eyes. Mulder cleared his throat, his gaze shifting between the two women, his discomfort evident.

Whitney quickly recovered, offering a somewhat strained smile. "Of course, Agent, or should I say, Doctor Scully. I was just trying to help."

Scully's nostrils flared, her irritation growing. "I'm sure you were. But I think we can handle our own affairs without unnecessary intervention." She placed her hand on her belly, her pregnancy not quite evident, but the evidence was there if you knew to look for it.

Whitney's smile faltered as her gaze followed the motion, her eyes narrowed slightly before she turned to Mulder. "Well, if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask." With that, she continued on her way, leaving a palpable tension in her wake.

"Scully, I…" he began, but Scully held up a hand to stop him.

"It's not your fault, Mulder," she said softly, her gaze softening. "I know you can't control other people's actions."

Mulder's lips curved into a grateful smile. "You always know how to put things in perspective."

Scully’s hand gently caressed her belly as she approached him. "Just like you always manage to find the truth in the midst of chaos."

He chuckled, his hand reaching out to cradle her cheek. "We make a good team, huh?"

"We always have," Scully replied, her jealousy fading as quickly as it had arisen.

Chapter Text

It was a quiet evening in the Unremarkable House, the soft glow of the setting sun casting a warm hue over the living room. Scully reclined on her favorite armchair, one hand resting protectively over her swollen belly. The past few months had been a mix of joy, trepidation, and disbelief. Though she’d confided to Mulder she’d liked to have had another child, she had come to accept the improbability, no, the impossibility of that. Now, against all odds, she was carrying another life within her.

Yet, the shadow of her age and the risks it entailed loomed ominously. As twilight settled in, so did her worries. A sharp twinge sent a jolt of panic through her. Clutching her abdomen, Scully gasped and instinctively called out for Mulder, her partner, and the father of her unborn child.

Mulder rushed into the room; concern etched across his face. "Scully, are you okay? What's wrong?"

Tears welled up in Scully's eyes as she struggled to catch her breath. "Mulder, I... I think something's wrong. I felt a pain, and I'm bleeding..." A familiar déjà-vu settled over them both as the realization settled in. They’d been down this road before.

Fear tightened its grip on Mulder's heart, but he steadied his voice. "We need to get you to the hospital, Scully."

In the emergency room, the sterile environment seemed to amplify Scully's anxiety. No matter how many years she spent in this familiar environment on the other side, it was something she couldn’t get used to. As she lay on the hospital bed, various tests were performed while Mulder held her hand, his grip unwavering.

Time seemed to stretch as they awaited the doctor's assessment. Finally, a weary-looking physician entered the room, glancing between Scully and Mulder. "Doctor Scully, Mr. Mulder, I understand your concerns. Given your age and the nature of this pregnancy, there's a heightened level of caution."

Scully's heart raced as she held her breath for the doctor's verdict.

The doctor continued, "But after thorough examination and monitoring, I can assure you that a minor complication caused bleeding and is not indicative of a miscarriage. You indicated you’d had a partial abruption in your first pregnancy, which appears to be the case here as well. However, the baby's heartbeat is strong, and there are no signs of any immediate danger."

Relief flooded over Scully, tears of gratitude welling in her eyes. Mulder exhaled a breath he hadn't realized he was holding, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He reached for Scully’s hand, offering a gentle squeeze.

“We’d like to monitor you for a while, just to ensure there are no further complications. However, we are optimistic that with some rest, everything will be just fine. Right now, it appears to just be a partial separation of the uterine wall. While there is no cause for immediate concern, we want to minimize any risk of complete separation.”

Mulder looked from the doctor to Scully, and she could immediately see the question in his eyes.

“A full separation can block the delivery of oxygen to the baby,” Scully clarified. “In which case would necessitate an emergency cesarean.”

The doctor nodded, though it was clear this explanation was more for Mulder than anything.

“But you’ll both be fine,” he said, turning his gaze from Scully to the doctor. “They’ll be fine, right?”

“Everything appears fine right now, but we’d like to have Doctor Scully remain under observation for a few days to be sure.”

Over the next few days, Scully remained under observation, her apprehension gradually giving way to cautious optimism. The incident had been a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the uncertainties that came with it. Yet, it also reaffirmed Scully's resolve to protect and nurture the life growing within her, no matter the challenges that lie ahead.

As she lay in her hospital bed, her hand once again resting over her belly, Scully closed her eyes and sent a silent message of hope to their unborn daughter. She knew that this journey would be filled with both trials and triumphs, but she was ready to face it all, armed with the unwavering support of Mulder and the strength that had carried her through so many trials before.

Chapter Text

Mulder's demeanor, typically defined by his unwavering resolve, was overshadowed by a deep concern he couldn't shake. The sun had just begun its descent on a crisp autumn evening as he paced through the living room of their cozy Unremarkable house. Scully had been feeling unwell for the past few days, her complexion pale and her energy drained. The ever-logical doctor in her couldn't help but dismiss her symptoms as just another bout of pregnancy-related discomfort.

Though morning sickness was common during the first trimester of pregnancy, Scully had assured Mulder that it was normal to have symptoms throughout the pregnancy. Contrary to popular belief, morning sickness often extended well beyond the morning hours and into the later trimesters. Each pregnancy was so different.

"Mulder, I'm fine," Scully reassured him with a faint smile, though her voice was weak. She sat on the couch, trying to ease his worries, as she flipped through a medical journal she'd brought home from the hospital.

Scully's symptoms intensified daily, and Mulder watched helplessly as she struggled with relentless nausea and vomiting that extended far beyond the expected morning sickness. The vibrant hue of her complexion had faded to an unhealthy pallor, and he found himself hovering around her with growing worry, unsure of how to provide the support she needed.

On one unseasonably warm afternoon, Mulder returned home to find Scully slumped on the couch, her face drawn and fatigued. Concern etched lines into his features as he approached her with cautious steps.

With trembling hands, Mulder dialed the doctor's number, his voice betraying his unease as he described Scully's symptoms in detail. Though the doctor's reassurances provided a glimmer of comfort, they couldn't wholly dispel Mulder's underlying fears.

Turning his attention back to Scully, Mulder spoke softly. "The doctor said it's likely the hyperemesis gravidarum, Scully."

The hours stretched on, but Mulder's anxiety refused to abate. Scully's fatigue only deepened, and he often found himself by her side, offering her water, ginger ale, or a reassuring touch on her arm.

Amidst their conversation, Scully's complexion turned even more ashen, and her eyes fluttered shut. Panic surged through Mulder as he reached for her, his heart racing.

"Scully, are you okay? Can you hear me?" he pleaded, his voice tinged with fear.

No response. Scully lay still on the couch, her silence alarming. Without hesitation, Mulder dialed 911, his voice quaking as he explained the situation to the operator.

Scully began to stir weakly, her eyes opening slightly. "Mulder? What happened?"

Relief flooded over him as he clasped her hand, his emotions overflowing. "You fainted, Scully. It scared me half to death."

Scully's brow furrowed, confusion evident in her eyes. "Fainted? I don't remember..."

Paramedics arrived promptly, tending to Scully's needs and reassuring him that, though distressing, fainting due to hyperemesis gravidarum was not unheard of. As they departed, Mulder's anxiety began to ebb, replaced by a renewed determination. He might not have all the answers, but he was resolute in his commitment to stand by Scully's side throughout this challenging journey.

Mulder's unease gave way to a sense of purpose in the following days. He became Scully's constant companion, accompanying her to medical appointments, holding her hair back as she battled unrelenting nausea, and listening attentively as she detailed her struggles.

As Mulder watched the steady rise and fall of Scully’s chest and the crest of her belly on the couch, he decided to slip outside for some fresh air. As he sat on the porch chair, he closed his eyes and released a much-needed sigh.

Moments later, he awoke at the sound of a vehicle pulling up to their property. He couldn’t help but smile at the sight of the old beater and the lanky young man that exited the car.

Jackson arrived at the Scully-Mulder residence. He smiled at Mulder halfway down the porch steps.

"Hey, Mulder. How is Dana?" Jackson inquired softly.

Mulder's shoulders sagged as he offered a tired smile. "It's been a rough ride, Jackson. Hyperemesis gravidarum is taking its toll."

Jackson nodded empathetically. "Oh, I've read about it. Must be tough for both of you."

“Yeah, I’m sure she’d love to see you though.”

The two men entered the living room to see Scully immediately awake. Scully managed a weak smile upon seeing Jackson. "Jackson, Hi."

Jackson's eyes softened as he took a seat beside her. "Hey, Dana. How are you feeling?"

Scully sighed, fatigue evident in every line of her face. "Honestly, like I've been hit by a truck."

Jackson's expression grew more serious. "Sorry," he whispered sympathetically.

“It’s better now,” she continued with a small smile, allowing the unspoken words to settle between them.

As the day progressed, Jackson undertook various tasks, from preparing light meals to helping with household chores. He sat by Scully's side as she battled waves of nausea, offering a comforting presence that seemed to ease her discomfort.

"Thanks, Jackson. I know this probably isn't exactly how you planned to spend your day," Scully murmured, her voice weak.

Jackson smiled gently. "It’s ok; it’s not like I have much else going on," he chuckled.

Mulder watched the scene unfold with a mixture of gratitude and relief. Jackson's arrival had lifted a weight off his shoulders, and he could see its positive impact on Scully.

Later that evening, as Scully's symptoms began to subside temporarily, the three sat in the living room, sharing stories and laughter. It was a rare moment of respite, and Mulder felt a sense of gratitude for Jackson's spontaneous visit.

"Thank you for being here, Jackson," Mulder said sincerely, his eyes meeting Jackson's.

As the evening wore on, the bond between them grew stronger. Jackson's presence had brought a ray of light into their challenging circumstances, reminding them that they could rely on each other for strength and support even in the face of the unknown. Scully said it would all be worth it once their daughter arrived. He hoped she was right.

Chapter Text

The moon hung low in the night sky, casting a soft silver glow through the curtains of the Unremarkable House. Scully lay in bed, her hands resting on her rounded belly, feeling the steady rhythm of their baby's movements. Scully was grateful for this period of time, not working at the hospital or the FBI. This lull was almost completely foreign as she had worked continuously since their time on the run all those years ago.

As the clock ticked past midnight, a wave of discomfort washed over her. At first, she dismissed it as the usual aches and pains that came with being heavily pregnant, but the sensation intensified. A tightening sensation gripped her abdomen, followed by a sharp pang of pain.

Scully's heart raced as her mind leaped to the worst-case scenario: she was only seven months into her pregnancy, and this couldn't possibly be labor. Not now. Not when the baby wasn't due for another two months. Panic tightened its grip on her, and she felt a knot of fear forming in her chest.

"Mulder," she whispered, nudging her sleeping husband beside her.

Mulder stirred, his eyes fluttering open as he looked at Scully, concern etched across his face. "Scully, what's wrong?"

Tears welled in her eyes as she struggled to find her voice. "Mulder, I think... I think I'm having contractions."

Mulder's gaze softened as he reached out to stroke her hair gently. "Hey, hey, it's going to be okay."

Scully nodded, her breathing shaky as she followed Mulder's calming presence. Together, they started timing the contractions, and as they did, Mulder's soothing words and steady hand helped Scully regain some semblance of control over her racing thoughts.

"Scully, the contractions are irregular and not very frequent. It might be a false alarm. Remember what the doctor said about Braxton Hicks contractions? It's normal for your body to practice, to prepare for the real thing."

The medical professional within her was well aware that Braxton Hicks contractions were frequent in the later stages of pregnancy; nonetheless, the mother in her couldn't overlook the reality that this particular pregnancy was exceptionally high-risk. Nevertheless, the fact that Mulder spent many nights of endless research on what to expect while expecting was not lost on her.

Scully's worried gaze met Mulder's, seeking solace in his words. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart. "But, Mulder, something doesn't feel right," Scully replied, her voice quivering slightly. "I've been having these cramps, and she's been moving so much tonight. What if I'm going into early labor?"

Mulder walked over to her, placing his hands gently on her shoulders. "Hey, look at me," he said softly. "We've been through so much together, and we've faced far scarier things than this. If it turns out to be early labor, we'll handle it. But right now, we need to stay calm and rational."

Scully looked into Mulder's eyes, finding the strength she needed in his unwavering confidence. She nodded slowly, taking another deep breath.

"You're right," she said, her voice steadier now. "I guess tend to let my imagination run wild sometimes."

He smirked. “Hey, that’s my job. Leave that to me.”

Scully laughed, and he smiled before pressing his lips against her forehead.

He leaned in and pressed a tender kiss to her forehead. "It's okay to be scared, Scully. We're in this together. And if it does turn out to be something more, we'll handle it. We're prepared for whatever comes our way."

Scully managed a weak smile, her hand finding Mulder's and squeezing it. "I know. Thank you, Mulder."

Mulder smiled gently and pulled her into a comforting embrace. "It will be okay, Scully. I believe in you, and I believe in our little miracle," he said, placing his hand on the cocoon that housed their daughter. He often imagined their daughter, safe and secure near her mother’s heart.

Scully rested her head against his chest, feeling his steady heartbeat against her cheek. The warmth of his embrace eased her fears, and she closed her eyes, focusing on the rhythm of his breathing.

After a few moments, Mulder pulled back slightly and brushed a strand of hair away from Scully's face. "Why don't we try something to help you relax? Maybe a warm bath or some soothing music?"

Scully nodded appreciatively. "A bath sounds good. Thank you, Mulder."

As they made their way to the bathroom, Scully felt a renewed sense of calm settling over her. Mulder's steady presence and logical reasoning were like a lifeline, grounding her in the midst of her anxieties.

In the quiet serenity of the bathroom, Scully sunk into the warm bath, letting the soothing water envelop her. Mulder sat on the edge of the tub, his fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on her belly. Together, they shared a moment of tranquility, the worries of the night slowly fading into the background.

Scully smiled, her heart swelling with gratitude for the man by her side. "How did I get so lucky?"

Mulder leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. "I ask myself that same question all the time.”

As she soaked in the warmth of the bath, Scully found herself relaxing, the earlier panic subsiding. With Mulder's unwavering support and calm presence, she knew they could handle anything that came their way—even the uncertainties of pregnancy.

As the night wore on, the contractions gradually eased, becoming less frequent and less intense. Eventually, exhaustion won over fear, and Scully found herself drifting off to sleep, her head resting on Mulder's shoulder.

Mulder remained awake, his gaze fixed on the gentle rise and fall of Scully's chest as she slept. He knew that the road ahead was unpredictable, but he was determined to be the steady presence she needed, the one who could balance her moments of panic with his calm reassurance. It was an incredible role reversal he hadn’t expected.

And so, under the silver moonlight, Mulder held Scully close, ready to face whatever challenges the coming days might bring, together.

Chapter Text

As Mulder and Scully made their way home, the air between them hung heavy with unspoken emotions. Scully glanced sideways at Mulder, noting the tension etched into his features, the furrowed brow and clenched jaw betraying the turmoil swirling within him.

Once inside the familiar confines of their home, they gravitated toward the living room, each sinking into the comfort of their respective spaces. The silence stretched between them, pregnant with unvoiced thoughts and feelings that begged to be released.

Scully took a deep breath, summoning the courage to broach the subject that weighed heavily on both their minds. "Mulder," she began, her voice barely above a whisper, "about what happened today... about William..."

Mulder's gaze flickered to hers, his eyes reflecting a mixture of pain and longing. "I can't believe he's gone," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. "After everything we've been through, everything we've sacrificed... to lose him like this, it's..." His words trailed off, the enormity of their loss too heavy to bear.

Scully reached out, her hand finding Mulder's and intertwining their fingers in a gesture of comfort. "I know," she whispered, her voice trembling with unshed tears. "It's a pain I never imagined we'd have to endure."

For a moment, they sat in silence, drawing strength from the simple act of being together. Then, Mulder turned to Scully, his eyes searching hers for answers that words alone could not provide. "And then... finding out about the baby," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "It's like... like the universe is playing some cruel joke on us."

Scully nodded, her own heart heavy with the weight of their conflicting emotions. "I know it's a lot to take in," she admitted, her voice trembling with vulnerability. "But Mulder, despite everything... despite the pain and uncertainty, I can't help but feel a glimmer of hope. I think that William is still alive. I can't explain it, but we've seen what he can do. I don't think it will be the last we hear from him."

Mulder's eyes softened as he gazed at Scully, the depth of their connection transcending the barriers of words. He thought about the moment William, no, Jackson had saved his life. Yet, the recollection of the bloodshed inflicted by his son was terrifying.

"Hope," he repeated, his voice filled with reverence. "It's what's kept us going all these years, through the darkness and the doubt. And now, more than ever, we need to hold onto it."

----

The soft glow of lamplight cast gentle shadows across the room as Scully sat curled up on the couch, her hand resting protectively over her belly. Lost in thought, she traced delicate patterns against her skin, imagining the faint flutter of movement that she would soon feel beneath her fingertips.

Mulder watched from the doorway, his heart heavy with a mixture of longing and uncertainty. Tentatively, he approached, his footsteps echoing softly against the hardwood floor. Scully looked up as he drew near, offering him a faint smile that didn't quite reach her eyes.

"Hey," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. An unasked question hung heavy between them.

Scully shifted, a silent invitation for him to join her. Mulder sank onto the couch beside her, his breath catching in his throat as he reached out to gently touch her belly. For a moment, he hesitated, the weight of his emotions threatening to overwhelm him.

Scully took his hand in her own and rested it against the small bump that was barely discernable beneath her sweater. His heart swelled with a mixture of awe and reverence as he realized the profound significance of this moment.

"Hey there, little one," he whispered, his voice filled with tenderness. "It's... it's your dad."

Scully watched him, her eyes shining with unshed tears as she reached out to intertwine their fingers. "Mulder," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, "this... this is everything we've ever wanted, isn't it? A chance to start over."

Mulder nodded, his gaze never leaving Scully's. "Yeah," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "It's... it's everything."

As they sat together in the quiet of their home, the promise of tomorrow whispered on the wind, carrying with it the enduring power of love and the boundless possibilities of new beginnings.

Chapter Text

The moon cast a soft glow through the window, bathing the room in an ethereal light as Scully lay awake in bed, her thoughts swirling with fears and uncertainties. Beside her, Mulder slept soundly, his steady breathing a comforting presence in the darkness. But despite his proximity, Scully couldn't shake the sense of foreboding that gripped her heart like a vice.

She shifted restlessly, her hand instinctively moving to rest over her swollen belly. But instead of finding solace in the gentle movements of the life growing inside her, she felt only fear—an overwhelming sense of dread that threatened to suffocate her.

What if something goes wrong? What if she loses the baby before she even has a chance to hold her in her arms? The thought sent a shiver down her spine, the weight of her fears pressing down upon her like a crushing weight.

Tears welled up in her eyes as she whispered a silent prayer into the darkness, a plea for protection and guidance in the face of the unknown. She had faced countless dangers and uncertainties in her life, but none had ever filled her with such overwhelming dread as the thought of losing her unborn child. Their daughter.

Mulder stirred beside her, sensing her distress even in his sleep. His arm instinctively wrapped around her, pulling her close as he murmured words of comfort and reassurance. But despite his best efforts, Scully couldn't shake the grip of fear that held her captive.

Hours passed, the night slipping away into the silence of dawn as Scully lay awake, her mind consumed by thoughts of what might go wrong. It wasn't until the first light of morning began to filter through the curtains that she finally succumbed to exhaustion, her fears momentarily silenced by the promise of a new day.

--

The air in the room felt heavy with tension as Mulder paced back and forth, his steps echoing loudly against the hardwood floor. Scully sat at the kitchen table, her gaze fixed on the cup of untouched coffee in front of her, her thoughts a whirlwind of fear and uncertainty.

"Scully," Mulder began, his voice gentle yet tinged with urgency. "Dana..."

Scully looked up, startled by the use of her first name—a rare occurrence that signaled the seriousness of Mulder's concern. She met his gaze, her eyes searching his for answers she feared she wouldn't find.

"I'm worried about you," Mulder continued, his voice soft yet filled with conviction. "You've been... distant lately, more so than usual. And I can't help but feel like... like there's something you're not telling me."

Scully swallowed hard, the lump in her throat making it difficult to form coherent words. She knew she couldn't keep her fears bottled up any longer, not when they threatened to consume her from the inside out.

"I... I'm scared, Mulder," she admitted finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "Scared that something will go wrong... that I'll lose the baby before she's even born."

Mulder's heart clenched at her words, the weight of her fears hitting him like a punch to the gut. He crossed the room in a few swift strides, kneeling beside her chair and taking her hands in his.

"Dana," he murmured, his voice filled with tenderness and resolve. "I can't promise you that everything will be okay. But what I can promise is that no matter what happens, I'll be right here by your side, every step of the way."

Scully's eyes brimmed with tears as she squeezed Mulder's hands tightly, drawing strength from his unwavering presence.

Mulder knelt beside Scully, his eyes filled with tenderness as he gazed at her baby bump. His hand hovered over her rounded belly, a mixture of awe and protectiveness swirling within him. Despite the trials they had faced and the uncertainties that lay ahead, one thing remained constant: his love for Scully and their daughter. And somewhere out there, their son, too.

Gently, he placed his hand on her belly, feeling the gentle movements of their baby beneath his touch. A surge of emotion washed over him as he realized the incredible miracle unfolding before his eyes—a new life, created out of their love for each other.

"Scully," he whispered, his voice barely above a whisper, "I promise you, I will do everything in my power to protect you both, no matter what happens."

Scully's eyes filled with tears as she reached out to touch his face, her heart overflowing with love and gratitude. "Mulder," she murmured, her voice trembling with emotion, "thank you. Thank you for being here. For this."

Mulder smiled. "I wouldn't dream of having a child with anyone else. It's always been you, Scully." He sighed as he recalled the night they conceived this tiny life and pressed a tender kiss against her belly.

Chapter Text

As Scully pressed Mulder's hand to her belly, a surge of emotions flooded through him like a tidal wave, overwhelming him with disbelief and wonder. He stared at her, his eyes wide with shock, as the weight of her words sank in.

"A father?" he whispered, his voice barely above a breath. "But... how is that possible?" he repeated, his head still spinning.

Scully's gaze never wavered as she met his eyes, her own filled with a mixture of vulnerability and determination. "I don't know, Mulder," she admitted, her voice trembling with emotion. "But it's true. We're going to have a baby."

For a moment, Mulder could only stare at her, his mind reeling with the impossibility of it all. After everything they had been through—the loss of William, the countless trials and tribulations they had faced together—he never dared to hope for a chance at fatherhood.

But now, as he stood on the edge of this new and uncertain journey, he felt a spark of something deep within him—a glimmer of hope, flickering like a flame in the darkness. He reached out, his hand trembling as he gently touched Scully's belly, feeling the warmth of their unborn child beneath his fingertips in the frigid early morning air.

Tears pricked at the corners of his eyes as he looked at Scully, his heart overflowing with love and her watery gaze mirrored his own.

Scully's eyes shone with tears as she wrapped her arms around him once again, holding him close as they stood together in the quiet of the night. And in that moment, as they embraced each other, their hearts beating in unison against the backdrop of the star-filled sky, Mulder knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, bound by a love that was as unbreakable as it was enduring.

At some point, Scully had broken away from him toward the commotion that started to surround them. FBI Agents, EMTs, Kersh probably.

Mulder stood on the edge of the dock, the cold wind whipping through his hair as he stared out across the dark expanse of water. The events of the past few days replayed in his mind like a broken record, each moment etched into his memory with painful clarity.

But amidst the chaos and confusion, one question continued to haunt him: why hadn't Scully come with him on the chase for William?

As he wrestled with his thoughts, a sudden realization dawned on him—a revelation so profound that it stole the breath from his lungs. Scully had known. She had known about the pregnancy, about their unborn child, and she had chosen to stay behind to protect their baby.

The weight of that realization hit him like a ton of bricks, filling him with a mixture of awe and gratitude. Scully had sacrificed her own desires, her own need for closure, for the sake of their unborn child. She had put their baby's safety above all else, even her own longing to find their son.

Tears welled up in Mulder's eyes as he turned back towards the commotion, a newfound sense of reverence washing over him. He had always known that Scully was strong and resilient, but this—this was something else entirely. This was the selflessness of a mother, the fierce determination to protect her child at any cost.

Mulder's heart swelled with love and gratitude for the woman who stood beside him for so many years, who had chosen once again to share this impossible journey with him. He knew that no matter what lay ahead, they would face it together, bound by a love that was as unyielding as it was enduring.

Chapter Text

The drive to the old Van De Kamp house was tense, a silence hanging between Scully and Jackson as the miles passed under them. Scully kept one hand on her slightly rounded belly, feeling the life growing inside her, and the other on the steering wheel. Jackson sat beside her, staring out the window, his face a mask of unreadable emotions.

It had been several months since she last visited this place, the home where Jackson had been raised, and where his adoptive parents had met such a violent end. The memories of that day were still fresh in her mind—the chaos, the overwhelming sense of loss, and the eerie discovery of Jackson, who had faked his own death to escape the danger that had come for him.

Now, as they approached the house, Scully couldn’t help but feel a mix of dread and nostalgia. This place held so much pain, yet it was also a link to her son’s past, a past she had missed out on, and one that she desperately wanted to understand.

The house came into view, its once pristine exterior now faded and worn with time. Scully parked the car and turned off the engine, the silence inside the vehicle even more pronounced now. She glanced over at Jackson, who was still staring straight ahead, his expression blank.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” she asked softly, her voice filled with concern.

Jackson finally turned to look at her, his eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and determination. “I need to, Dana. It’s the last connection I have to them.”

Scully nodded, understanding the weight of what he was feeling. This wasn’t just about visiting an old house—it was about confronting the ghosts of his past, the life he had lived before he knew who he really was.

They stepped out of the car, the gravel crunching under their feet as they made their way to the front door. Jackson hesitated for a moment before unlocking it and pushing it open. The house was cold and dark, the air heavy with dust and memories.

Scully followed him inside, her heart aching as she took in the familiar yet foreign surroundings. She had been here before, but the circumstances were so different now. Back then, it had been a crime scene, a place of horror. Now, it was a place of reflection, of trying to piece together a past that had been stolen from them both.

Jackson led her through the house, his steps slow and deliberate. They passed through the living room, where the remnants of his childhood were still scattered, a well-worn couch, framed photos of a life that seemed so distant now.

Scully paused by one of the photos, a picture of Jackson as a young boy, his face lit up with a wide smile, his adoptive parents standing proudly behind him. She felt a pang of sadness, thinking of the life he had lost, the family that had been taken from him, and of course, every milestone she had missed out on.

“They loved me,” Jackson said quietly, his voice breaking the silence. “They were good to me. They didn’t deserve what happened to them.”

Scully looked at him, seeing the pain etched into his features. She wanted to comfort him, to tell him that it wasn’t his fault, but she knew that words would be meaningless right now. Instead, she reached out and took his hand, squeezing it gently. Jackson gave her a small, grateful smile before leading her upstairs.

The hallway was lined with more photos, more memories of a life that seemed so far away. They reached a familiar door at the end of the hall, and Jackson pushed it open, revealing his old bedroom.

The room was a time capsule, untouched for months, various items scattered about since the Department of Defense had taken over, the bed was unmade, as if he had just gotten up that morning. On a shelf by the window sat a collection of snow globes, each one carefully placed and dusted, a testament to the care he had taken with them.

Scully walked over to the shelf once again, running her fingers lightly over the glass domes. Each snow globe contained a different scene—tiny houses, winter landscapes, a small town square lit up for Christmas. They were beautiful, delicate, and filled with a sense of wonder that spoke of Jackson’s childhood innocence.

“These were my favorites,” Jackson said, coming up beside her. “My mom used to buy them for me whenever we went on trips. She said they were like little worlds trapped in glass, perfect and unchanging.”

Scully picked up one of the snow globes, holding it up to the light. The snow inside swirled around a small cabin, peaceful and serene. She could see why they had meant so much to him. "You still have the windmill one," Jackson had said more as a statement than a question, and she was instantly transported back to their encounter outside the hospital. She hadn't known it was Jackson at the time. "That was my favorite."

Jackson watched her for a moment before speaking again. “I want you to have them, for the baby. I think she’d like them.”

Scully’s heart swelled with emotion, and she looked at Jackson with a mixture of love and gratitude. “Are you sure? These are so special to you.”

Jackson nodded, his expression softening. “That’s why I want her to have them. She deserves something from me, something that was a part of my life. And maybe… maybe it’ll help her feel connected to me, in case… in case I’m not around.”

Scully felt a lump form in her throat at his words. She knew the dangers they faced, and the uncertainty of their future, but hearing Jackson express that fear made it all the more real. She set the snow globe down carefully and turned to him, placing a hand on his cheek.

“You’re going to be here, Jackson. Whatever that might look like... we’re a family now, and we’re going to get through this together.”

Jackson leaned into her touch, his eyes closing for a brief moment as if savoring the comfort it brought him. When he opened them again, they were filled with determination. “I hope so, Dana. I really do.”

They stood there for a moment, wrapped in the quiet intimacy of the room, the weight of the past pressing down on them. But there was also a sense of hope, a belief that maybe, just maybe, they could find a way forward.

Jackson moved to a dresser and opened a drawer, pulling out a stack of photo albums. He handed them to Scully, who took them carefully, knowing that they held the story of his life, a story she had missed.

“These are for you too,” he said. “I want you to know who I was, who I am. I want you to see the life I had, the people who loved me. And maybe, when the baby’s older, you can show them to her, tell her about her big brother.”

Scully’s eyes filled with tears, and she nodded, unable to find the words to express how much this meant to her. She hugged the albums to her chest, feeling the weight of them, both physical and emotional.

“Thank you, Jackson,” she whispered. “For sharing this with me. It means everything.”

Scully pulled him into a hug, holding him tightly, as if she could somehow protect him from all the pain and fear that had haunted them both. Jackson hugged her back, and for a moment, they stood there, mother and son, bound by love and loss, but also by hope for the future.

Eventually, they pulled apart, and Scully looked around the room one last time, taking in the remnants of the life Jackson had lived here. She knew they couldn’t stay, that the past was a place they could visit but not dwell in. But she also knew that this visit had given them both something they desperately needed—a sense of closure and a way to move forward.

“Let’s go home,” she said softly, her hand resting on her belly. “We have a lot to prepare for.”

Jackson nodded, a new resolve in his eyes. “Yeah. Let’s go home.”

As they left the house, the snow globes and photo albums carefully packed away, Scully felt a sense of peace settle over her. The past would always be a part of them, but it didn’t have to define their future. They had each other, and soon, they would have a new life to protect and love.

And that, Scully knew, was the most important thing of all.

Chapter Text

Mulder sat alone in the dimly lit living room, the soft glow of the lamp casting long shadows across the floor. His mind was a tangle of thoughts, memories, and fears that he couldn’t quite shake. The house was quiet—too quiet. Scully had gone to bed hours ago, but Mulder couldn’t bring himself to join her. Not with the thoughts that had been gnawing at him, keeping him up night after night.

He had tried to push them away, to focus on the present, on the life growing inside Scully. But as the days passed and the reality of becoming a father loomed closer, the old fears began to resurface—fears he thought he had buried long ago.

The past had a way of creeping back in when he least expected it, reminding him of the darkness he had once fallen into. The darkness that had nearly cost him everything. And now, as he sat in the quiet of their home, those fears whispered in his ear, telling him that history could repeat itself.

He had always been afraid of losing Scully, but now that fear had taken on a new dimension. He wasn’t just afraid of losing her; he was terrified that he might drive her away again, that his own struggles might be too much for her to bear, and that she might leave him—taking their child with her.

Mulder ran a hand through his hair, letting out a deep sigh. The thought of Scully leaving, of raising their child without him, was almost too much to bear. He knew he had come a long way since those dark days, but the fear of relapse was always there, lurking in the background.

He didn’t hear Scully come down the stairs until she was standing in the doorway, her silhouette outlined by the soft light from the hallway. “Mulder?” Her voice was gentle, but it cut through the silence like a knife.

He looked up, startled to see her standing there. “Scully… I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“You didn’t,” she said softly as she crossed the room to join him on the couch. She could see the worry etched on his face, the tension in his shoulders, and her heart ached for him. “What’s going on? You’re a million miles away."

Mulder sighed, staring down at his hands. “Just… thinking,” he said quietly. “About everything that’s coming. About the past.”

Scully frowned, sensing where his thoughts had taken him. “Mulder, the past is behind us,” she said, reaching out to take his hand in hers, seeming to sense what he was getting at. “We’ve moved forward. We’re in a different place now.”

“I know,” Mulder murmured, though his voice lacked conviction. He hesitated before finally voicing the fear that had been gnawing at him. “But what if… what if it happens again, Scully? What if the darkness finds me again? What if I push you away, and this time… you don’t come back?”

Scully’s heart clenched at the vulnerability in his voice, and she tightened her grip on his hand. “Mulder, look at me,” she said firmly, waiting until he lifted his gaze to meet hers. “That’s not going to happen. You’re not going to push me away, and I’m not going to leave.”

Mulder shook his head, the fear still evident in his eyes. “But what if it's not enough? What if I’m not the father you or our daughter need me to be? I don’t want to fail you, Scully, or her," he nodded toward her belly.

Scully felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes as she listened to his words. She could see how deeply his fear ran, how much he was struggling with the weight of their shared past. She reached out, cupping his face in her hands, forcing him to focus on her, on the present.

“Mulder, listen to me,” she said, her voice filled with a fierce determination. “You are not going to fail. You are going to be a wonderful father. I know you will because you care so much. You’ve always put others before yourself, and I know you’ll do the same for our baby.”

“But what if—”

“No ‘what ifs,’ Mulder,” Scully interrupted, shaking her head. “You’re not the same person you were back then. You’ve grown, we’ve both grown, and we’ve come through so much together. This is different now. We’re different now.”

Mulder searched her eyes, looking for the reassurance he so desperately needed. “You really think I can do this?” he asked, his voice filled with doubt.

“I know you can,” Scully said firmly. “We’re in this together, Mulder. I’m not going anywhere, and I would never take our child away from you. I know how much you love her already, and she’s going to know it too. She’s going to know that you’re the best father she could ever have.”

Mulder’s eyes glistened with unshed tears, and he reached up to cover her hands with his, leaning into her touch. “I just… I don’t want to lose you, Scully,” he whispered, his voice breaking. “I don’t want to lose either of you.”

“You won’t,” Scully said softly, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to his forehead. “We’re here, Mulder. We’re not going anywhere. And we’re going to be a family again. You’re not alone in this.”

Mulder closed his eyes, letting her words wash over him, slowly easing the fear that had gripped him for so long. “I just want to be the father she deserves,” he said quietly.

“And you will be,” Scully assured him. “I have no doubt about that. You’re going to be an incredible father, Mulder. I know it.”

Mulder finally let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding, and he nodded, the tension in his body starting to ebb away. “Okay,” he whispered, his voice steadier now. “Okay.”

Scully smiled softly, her heart swelling with love for the man in front of her. She leaned in, pressing a kiss to his lips—a kiss that was filled with all the love, reassurance, and hope she could give him. “We’re going to be okay, Mulder,” she whispered against his lips. “We’re going to be more than okay.”

Mulder nodded, his hand coming up to cradle the back of her head as he returned the kiss, pouring all of his love and gratitude into that simple gesture. When they finally pulled back, he rested his forehead against hers, his eyes closing as he allowed himself to believe in the future she had promised him.

And for the first time in a long time, Mulder felt a sense of peace settle over him—a peace that came from knowing that no matter what happened, they would face it together. He had Scully by his side, and together, they could face anything.

Chapter Text

Scully sat in the dimly lit room, the weight of everything that had happened pressing down on her like a suffocating blanket. The silence around her was deafening, broken only by the faint hum of the hospital machines in the distance. She barely noticed the sterile smell, the cold metal of the chair she was sitting on, or the steady ticking of the clock on the wall. All she could feel was the turmoil swirling inside her, a chaotic storm of emotions that threatened to tear her apart.

Her mind replayed the events of the past few days over and over again, each memory like a jagged shard of glass cutting into her consciousness. The revelation that William—*her* William, her son—had been an experiment was almost too much to comprehend. The words had echoed in her mind, relentless and cruel, like a cruel twist of fate. Her child, the boy she had carried and loved, had been nothing more than a pawn in a game far beyond her control.

A sickening sense of betrayal had settled in the pit of her stomach when she first heard the truth. She had been lied to, manipulated, used in ways she could never have imagined. All those years of searching for answers, of trying to protect William, had been built on a foundation of lies. The people she had trusted—the ones she thought were on her side—had betrayed her in the most profound way possible.

Scully’s hand instinctively moved to her abdomen, her fingers trembling as they rested on the place where she knew a new life was growing. The doctors had confirmed it just hours ago. She was pregnant again. The news should have been a source of joy, of hope, but instead, it left her feeling more confused, more lost than ever before.

The irony wasn’t lost on her. Just when she thought she had lost everything, when she had resigned herself to a life of pain and regret, the universe had thrown her this curveball. She was going to be a mother again. But how could she reconcile the joy of new life with the grief and betrayal that had shattered her heart?

She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to block out the thoughts that threatened to overwhelm her. But they wouldn’t be silenced. They clawed at her, demanding to be heard.

*How could I not have known?* The question reverberated in her mind, a relentless whisper of doubt and self-recrimination. She had been a doctor, a scientist—someone trained to observe, to detect even the smallest anomalies. How had she missed the signs? How had she not known that William had been part of something so dark, so twisted? She had been his mother, and yet, she had been blind to the truth.

A tear slid down her cheek, quickly followed by another, as the enormity of it all came crashing down on her. She had failed him. She had failed William in ways she couldn’t even begin to understand. She had given him up, believing it was the only way to keep him safe, only to find out that he had been a part of a nightmare from the very beginning.

The pain of that realization was almost unbearable. It twisted her heart, filling her with a sense of helplessness and guilt so profound that it left her breathless. She had tried to protect him, but in the end, she had been powerless to stop the forces that had shaped his life.

And now, here she was, pregnant again—carrying a child who would come into a world where those same forces still loomed large, a world that had already taken so much from her. How could she protect this baby when she hadn’t been able to protect William?

The thought terrified her. She didn’t know if she could go through it all again—the fear, the uncertainty, the constant threat of danger lurking around every corner. She didn’t know if she was strong enough to face it.

And then there was Mulder. He had been her rock through so much, but even he couldn’t fully understand the depth of her pain. He hadn’t carried William inside him, hadn’t felt that connection that only a mother could feel. He hadn’t been the one to give him up, believing it was the only way to save him. Though it was a shared pain and his continued reassurance that she'd done the right thing, how could she explain to him the tangled mess of emotions that was tearing her apart?

She felt a deep sense of isolation, as if she were standing on the edge of a vast chasm, the ground crumbling beneath her feet. She was alone in this, just as she had been so many times before. The weight of that realization was almost too much to bear.

But as she sat there, lost in her thoughts, another feeling began to take hold—a feeling she hadn’t allowed herself to acknowledge until now. It was faint, almost imperceptible at first, but it grew stronger with each passing moment.

It was hope.

Despite everything that had happened, despite the pain and the betrayal, there was still a part of her that clung to the possibility of something better. She had survived this far, hadn’t she? She had faced the darkness head-on, time and time again, and she was still standing. She had fought for William, and she would fight for this baby too. She wasn’t ready to give up—not yet.

Slowly, she opened her eyes, taking a deep breath as she wiped away the tears that had fallen. The storm inside her hadn’t abated, but she could feel the first glimmers of clarity breaking through the clouds.

She was pregnant. She was going to be a mother again. And that meant she had a responsibility—not just to this new life, but to herself, to find a way to move forward.

She didn’t know what the future held, didn’t know how she would navigate the complicated emotions that lay ahead. But she knew one thing: she would do whatever it took to protect her child, to give them the life they deserved.

And maybe, just maybe, she would find a way to heal—both for herself and for the child she had lost.

With that thought, Scully rose from the chair, her hand still resting on her abdomen. She didn’t have all the answers, but she had something even more important: the strength to keep going, to keep fighting. And that was enough—for now.

Chapter Text

The day was waning, and the golden light of the setting sun bathed the Unremarkable House in a warm glow. Scully sat on the porch, a gentle breeze rustling through the trees as she rocked back and forth in the wooden chair, her hand resting on her swollen belly. The evening had always been her favorite time of day—a quiet moment to reflect, to find peace in the simple act of watching the world slow down.

But today, something felt different. There was a restlessness in the air, a feeling that something was about to change. She couldn’t quite place it, but it sat in her chest, a mixture of anticipation and unease.

Mulder was inside, tinkering with an old radio he’d found at a flea market the week before, leaving her to her thoughts. As the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the lawn, Scully closed her eyes, feeling the baby shift inside her. It was moments like these when she felt closest to the life growing within her, a bond that was both overwhelming and beautiful.

A soft rustle in the bushes nearby caught her attention, and she opened her eyes, scanning the yard. At first, she saw nothing out of the ordinary, but then, just beyond the edge of the trees, she spotted a figure. Her heart skipped a beat as she strained to see more clearly, the silhouette becoming more defined as it stepped into the light.

Her breath caught in her throat as she recognized him. Jackson.

He stood there, his expression hesitant, as if he wasn’t sure if he should approach. Scully’s heart pounded in her chest, a rush of emotions flooding through her—relief, joy, fear, and a deep, aching love. She hadn’t seen him in so long, and now, here he was, standing just a few feet away.

“Jackson,” she whispered, her voice trembling.

At the sound of her voice, Jackson’s eyes softened, and he took a cautious step forward. “Dana…”

Scully rose from the chair, her legs unsteady beneath her as she moved toward him. She wanted to run to him, to pull him into her arms, but the weight of her pregnancy slowed her down, grounding her in reality. Tears welled up in her eyes as she closed the distance between them.

When she finally reached him, she stopped, just inches away, her hand reaching out tentatively to touch his arm. The moment her fingers brushed against his skin, she felt the connection between them, a bond that had never truly been broken, despite the years of distance and heartache.

“Is it really you?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, as if speaking too loudly might shatter the moment.

Jackson nodded, his own eyes glistening with unshed tears. “It’s me, Mom.”

At the sound of that word, Scully’s composure crumbled. She threw her arms around him, pulling him into a tight embrace, holding him as if she would never let go. She buried her face in his shoulder, her tears soaking into his shirt as she sobbed, the weight of everything they had been through finally catching up to her.

Jackson held her just as tightly, his arms strong and reassuring around her. He didn’t say anything, didn’t need to. The comfort of his presence was enough, a balm for the wounds that had never fully healed.

After a long moment, Scully pulled back slightly, just enough to look up at him. She cupped his face in her hands, searching his eyes, needing to see the truth there. “I’ve missed you so much,” she said, her voice choked with emotion.

Jackson smiled, a small, sad smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I know. I’m sorry I stayed away for so long. I thought… I thought it would be better that way.”

Scully shook her head, her tears falling freely now. “You’re my son, Jackson. There’s nothing you could do that would make me stop loving you. I would have given anything to have you here, with us.”

He looked down at her belly, where his sibling was growing, and a flash of guilt crossed his face. “I didn’t know… I didn’t know about the baby until recently. I should have been here.”

Scully followed his gaze, placing her hand protectively over her belly. “It’s okay,” she said softly. “You’re here now. That’s all that matters.”

Jackson nodded, though the guilt didn’t fully leave his eyes. He reached out and gently placed his hand on her belly, feeling the small movements of the baby inside. A look of wonder passed over his face, and for a moment, all the tension seemed to melt away.

“She’s going to be so loved,” Jackson whispered, more to himself than to her.

Scully smiled, placing her hand over his. “Yes, she is. And she’s going to have an amazing big brother.”

Jackson looked up at her, his eyes filled with gratitude. “Thank you, Dana… for never giving up on me.”

Scully shook her head, pulling him close once more. “I could never give up on you, Jackson. You’re my son. You always will be.”

They stood there, wrapped in each other’s arms, the world around them fading away. It was a moment of pure, unfiltered emotion, the kind that could only come after years of heartache and longing. And in that moment, Scully knew that no matter what the future held, they would face it together, as a family.

When they finally pulled apart, Jackson smiled down at her, a real, genuine smile that lit up his face. “I think Mulder’s going to freak out when he sees me.”

Scully laughed, a sound that felt foreign after all the tears. “You’re probably right. But it’ll be a good kind of freak out.”

They walked back to the house together, Jackson’s arm around Scully’s shoulders, holding her close. As they approached the front door, it opened, and Mulder stepped out, his eyes widening in shock as he saw Jackson standing there.

“Jackson?” Mulder’s voice was filled with disbelief, his eyes darting between his son and Scully, as if trying to make sense of what he was seeing.

Jackson smiled, stepping forward. “Hey, Mulder. It’s good to see you.”

Mulder took a few steps forward, his expression still one of stunned disbelief. And then, without warning, he pulled Jackson into a bear hug, holding him tightly, just as Scully had done.

“I can’t believe it,” Mulder said, his voice thick with emotion. “You’re here. You’re really here.”

Jackson hugged him back, a deep sense of belonging settling over him. “I’m here, Dad.”

As the three of them stood together, the sun finally set, casting the world in twilight. The night ahead was uncertain, as was the future, but in that moment, they were a family. A family that had been through the unimaginable but had come out stronger on the other side. And as they walked into the house, the door closing softly behind them, they knew that whatever lay ahead, they would face it together, united by a love that had never faltered.

Chapter Text

Dana Scully sat in the parking lot of the hospital, her hands gripping the steering wheel a little too tightly. The engine was off, but she hadn’t yet made a move to get out of the car. She was a few months into her pregnancy, and her body beginning to show the unmistakable signs of the life growing inside her. It had been a few weeks since the X-Files had officially closed, and she was still adjusting to the shift in her reality. This morning, she was due to return to work at the hospital—a place that had once felt like home to her, but now, it felt strange and unfamiliar, like stepping into a life that no longer fit.

The familiar hum of the hospital’s busy parking lot buzzed around her, the distant sounds of cars, footsteps, and conversations blending into a low murmur. Scully took a deep breath, feeling the weight of everything she was carrying—not just the physical burden of her pregnancy, but the emotional and psychological load that came with it. There was a part of her that wanted to turn the key in the ignition and drive away, to avoid the stares, the questions, the whispers that she knew would follow her once she walked through those doors.

But that wasn’t who she was. She was Dana Scully—determined, resilient, and capable of facing whatever challenges life threw at her. And so, with a final steadying breath, she opened the car door and stepped out into the morning light.

The hospital loomed ahead of her, a place she had once associated with purpose, with the pursuit of knowledge and healing. But now, it felt different. It felt like a world that had moved on without her, and she wasn’t sure how to find her place in it again.

As she walked through the entrance, the sterile scent of antiseptic hit her, a familiar but not entirely welcome sensation. She went to the locker room, where she found her old locker untouched, just as she had left it. The nameplate still bore her title: Dr. Dana Scully, M.D. She stared at it momentarily, the letters blurring slightly as emotions she had been holding at bay threatened to break through.

She was no longer just a doctor or an FBI Agent. She was going to be a mother again, and that changed everything.

She changed into her scrubs, her movements automatic, driven by muscle memory. The fabric felt different against her skin, tighter around her growing belly, a constant reminder of how much her life had shifted. She caught sight of herself in the mirror, and for a moment, she didn’t recognize the woman staring back. The sharp lines of her jaw, the focus in her eyes—they were all still there but softened now by the knowledge of what was to come.

Leaving the locker room, she made her way down the familiar hallways, her steps echoing in the quiet morning hours. She passed a few colleagues, some of whom greeted her with a smile or a nod, others with curiosity or surprise. There was an unspoken question in their eyes, one she was not entirely prepared to answer.

When she reached her department, the air felt different, thicker somehow. It wasn’t the same as the X-Files, where she had grown accustomed to the strange, the paranormal, the unexplained. Here, everything was clinical, rational, and controlled. Yet, there was an undercurrent of uncertainty that followed her—like she was an anomaly in a place that didn’t quite know how to categorize her anymore.

Her supervisor, Dr. Keenan, greeted her with a warm smile, though his eyes flicked briefly to her stomach before returning to her face. “Dana, it’s good to have you back. How are you feeling?”

Scully offered a small smile in return. “I’m doing well, thank you. Just getting used to being back.”

“I can imagine,” Dr. Keenan replied, his tone gentle. “If there’s anything you need—anything at all—don’t hesitate to ask. We’re all here to support you.”

She appreciated his words, but there was an underlying tension in his voice that she couldn’t ignore. She nodded politely and thanked him before heading to her office.

Scully’s office was exactly as she had left it—papers neatly stacked, medical journals lining the shelves, her desk organized to her usual precise standards. But as she sat down in her chair, the room felt foreign. She was back in the world of medicine, of diagnoses and treatments, of protocols and procedures. It was a world she had once found comfort in, but now, it felt like trying to slip into an old skin that didn’t quite fit.

She rested a hand on her belly, feeling the faintest flutter of movement from the baby inside. It grounded her, reminding her of the life she was now responsible for—a life that, in many ways, had shifted her priorities, her focus, her very identity.

The first few hours passed slowly, as she reviewed patient files and caught up on the cases she had missed during her absence. The work was familiar, but there was a distance now, a part of her that felt like an observer rather than a participant.

As the day progressed, she couldn’t help but notice the sideways glances from some of her colleagues, the hushed whispers when they thought she wasn’t listening. It wasn’t overt, but it was there—a subtle shift in the way people interacted with her. She was used to being respected, even feared, for her intellect, her precision, and her unwavering commitment to her work. But now, it seemed that her pregnancy had altered that perception. It was as if she had become something other than the doctor they had known, something they couldn’t quite place or understand.

During a break, she found herself in the break room, sipping a cup of herbal tea that one of the nurses had insisted on making for her. A small group of nurses stood nearby, chatting quietly, their conversation drifting into her awareness.

“I heard Dr. Scully’s pregnant. Isn’t she a bit… old for that?”

“Well, she’s always been a bit of a mystery. You never really know with her.”

“I just hope she’s careful. At her age, there are so many risks…”

Scully stiffened, the words washing over her like a cold wave. She had expected some of this—she knew there would be judgments, questions, concerns. But hearing it spoken so casually as if her life were a topic of idle gossip, struck a nerve she hadn’t anticipated.

She set her cup down a little harder than she intended, the clatter drawing the attention of the nurses. They fell silent, awkwardly avoiding her gaze as she stood up and left the room, her heart pounding.

She had faced scrutiny before—in the field, in the FBI, from those who questioned her beliefs, her methods, and even her association with Spooky Fox Mulder. But this felt different. It felt personal in a way that was harder to shrug off. The fact that it was her pregnancy—something so deeply intimate, so profoundly important to her—that was being dissected made it all the more difficult to bear.

When she returned to her office, she found herself standing by the window, looking out at the bustling world beyond the glass. Her hand drifted to her belly again, as if seeking comfort from the life growing inside her.

She thought of Mulder—how protective he had become, how he had taken to this new chapter in their lives with a determination that both reassured and frightened her. She knew he worried about her, the baby, and the future they were building together. And she knew that part of his worry stemmed from the way the world seemed to view them now, as if they were a curiosity, an oddity, rather than a family. Those things had never bothered him before, but it bothered him for her, for their baby.

Scully took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. She would face this, just as she had faced everything else in her life—with strength, with grace, with the unshakable resolve that had carried her through the darkest moments. She would not allow the judgments of others to define her, to dictate how she lived her life, or how she welcomed her child into the world.

But it was hard. Harder than she had expected. And as she stood there, the weight of it all pressing down on her, she couldn’t help but feel a flicker of doubt—a small, nagging voice that wondered if she was truly prepared for what lay ahead.

Then, the baby moved again, a gentle reminder of the bond they shared, a connection that no amount of scrutiny or judgment could break. And in that moment, Scully felt a surge of determination. She would protect this child with everything she had, just as she had tried so hard to protect William all those years ago. She would prove to herself, to Mulder, and to the world that she was more than capable of being both a mother and a doctor, of balancing her responsibilities with the fierce love she already felt for this baby.

As the day drew to a close, Scully gathered her things, ready to head home. The transition back to the hospital had been harder than she anticipated, but she was finding her footing again, slowly but surely. She knew it wouldn’t be easy, but she was willing to fight for her place here, to prove that she was still the same Dana Scully—only now, she had even more to fight for.

As she walked out of the hospital, the cool evening air washing over her, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. The world might not understand her and might judge her for the choices she made, but that didn’t matter. What mattered was the life she was creating, the family she was building, and the love that would guide her through it all.

Chapter Text

They stood in the dimly lit hallway of the Unremarkable House, the silence between them heavy but not uncomfortable. It was one of those rare moments of stillness they had learned to cherish, an escape from the chaos that always seemed to find them. Scully leaned into Mulder, her body tired but her mind refusing to rest, the weight of everything she was carrying—not just physically but emotionally—almost too much to bear.

Mulder was behind her, his tall frame pressing gently against her back as his arms enveloped her in a slow, protective embrace. He wrapped his arms carefully around her, his hands finding their place on her belly, cradling the swell of their child growing between them. His touch was both gentle and firm, as though he could shield her from all the uncertainty and fear with just his hold.

Scully closed her eyes, her hands resting on top of his as she felt the steady rise and fall of his chest against her. Scully broke away before turning into him, surrendering to his embrace. Her belly, rounded and full, pressed into him, a constant, undeniable reminder of the life they had created together. The pressure was comforting, grounding her in the present, in the fact that Mulder was with her at this moment. He wasn’t just holding her—he was holding them both.

His breath was warm against the side of her neck as he lowered his head, his chin resting lightly on her crown. “How are you feeling?” he asked softly, his voice barely above a whisper. There was concern there, but also a gentleness she had come to depend on more than she would ever admit.

Scully exhaled slowly, her shoulders relaxing under the weight of his arms. “Tired,” she admitted, her voice quieter than usual. “But... better now.”

Mulder’s hands shifted slightly, and Scully drew his free hand again to her belly. It was reminiscent of a cold night months removed when everything seemed to fall apart despite a flicker of hope between them. Only now, her burgeoning belly was closing the gap between them, a constant reminder of the time that was ticking. The baby kicked gently in response, and Scully smiled faintly, feeling the life inside her react to Mulder’s touch. “She’s restless tonight,” she added, her voice softening.

“I can feel her,” Mulder murmured, pressing a soft kiss to the side of her head. His lips brushed against her temple, his breath steady, and Scully felt a warmth spread through her that had nothing to do with the physical closeness they shared. It was the feeling of being safe, of being held in a way that made the world outside this moment seem distant and unimportant.

He tightened his hold around her just a little, as if the simple act of standing there together could ward off everything that might come their way—the danger, the uncertainty, the fear of the unknown. Mulder had always been her protector in his own way, but this felt different. This was more than protection; this was love wrapped around her, around them. It was a silent promise that he would be there no matter what, that she was not alone in this journey.

Scully tilted her head slightly, resting it against his chest, her eyes still closed. The sound of his heartbeat, steady and constant, filled the quiet space between them. “Do you ever think about what’s going to happen?” she asked, her voice barely a whisper.

Mulder didn’t answer right away. His thoughts drifted to a moment in time not long before this child was conceived. He let the question hang in the air for a moment, his arms tightening protectively around her, his chin pressing down a little firmer on her head as if to anchor her. “All the time,” he finally replied, his voice low and steady. “But whatever happens, we’ll face it together.”

Together. It was a word that carried so much weight, so much meaning for them. Through all the years, through all the loss and pain, they had always come back to that. And now, with a new life between them, that bond felt even stronger, even more unbreakable.

Scully opened her eyes, staring at the wall in front of them but seeing nothing. She wasn’t thinking about the future anymore, wasn’t letting her mind spiral into the what-ifs that so often plagued her thoughts. Instead, she was here, in this moment, with Mulder’s arms wrapped protectively around her, her pregnant belly pressing gently into him, and the steady thrum of his heartbeat in her ear.

“Do you think she knows?” Scully asked quietly, her hand brushing over his where it rested on her belly.

“Knows what?”

“That we’re both here. That we’re both protecting her.”

Mulder’s lips brushed against her temple again, his voice a soft murmur. “She knows, Scully. She knows.”

Scully’s breath hitched slightly, emotion welling up in her chest. She wasn’t sure if it was the hormones or just the weight of everything they had been through, but tears pricked at the corners of her eyes. She blinked them away, focusing instead on the warmth of Mulder’s arms around her and the steady rise and fall of his chest.

They stood like that for a long while, wrapped up in each other, the world outside falling away. In that moment, with Mulder holding her close, Scully felt something she hadn’t felt in a long time—peace.

Mulder pressed another kiss to her temple before whispering, “We’re going to be okay. All three of us.”

And for the first time in a long time, Scully believed him.

Chapter Text

Scully stood quietly in the doorway of the nursery, the soft glow of the nightlight casting a warm, golden hue over the room. Her heart swelled with emotion as she watched Mulder, who was gently cradling their daughter in his arms. He hadn’t noticed her presence yet, his focus entirely on the tiny, delicate life in his hands.

Mulder’s expression was one of pure adoration, his eyes wide with wonder as he gazed down at their daughter. He was whispering softly to her, his voice barely audible but full of warmth and affection. Scully couldn’t make out the words, but it didn’t matter. She could see everything she needed to in the way he held their daughter, as if she were the most precious thing in the world.

A lump formed in Scully’s throat as she stood there, her heart aching with a bittersweet mixture of love and sorrow. She had always known that Mulder would be an incredible father—had seen glimpses of it in the way he had cared for William, even in the short time they had together. But now, watching him with their daughter, the depth of that realization hit her harder than she had expected.

He was so gentle with her, so careful, as if he were afraid to break this fragile connection they had been given. His large hands, normally so sure and steady, seemed almost hesitant as they stroked their daughter’s soft hair, her tiny fingers curling around his thumb. Mulder’s eyes were bright, and Scully thought she saw a glimmer of tears there, though he would never admit it.

Scully’s heart twisted painfully in her chest. Mulder was such a wonderful father, so full of love and tenderness, and yet he had missed so much. He had missed the chance to hold William like this, to comfort him in the middle of the night, to watch him grow and change with each passing day. The pain of that loss was something that had never fully left them, a wound that had scarred over but never truly healed.

She couldn’t help but think of all the moments Mulder had been robbed of with William...that they had been robbed of—the first steps, the first words, the quiet nights like this one where he could have simply held his son and felt that indescribable bond. The unfairness of it all hit her anew, and she had to blink back tears as she watched him now, doing all the things he should have been able to do with William.

But even in her sorrow, there was a deep sense of gratitude, a profound appreciation for this moment, for the chance to see Mulder as the father she had always known he could be. He hadn’t lost his ability to love, hadn’t let the pain of the past harden his heart. Instead, he was here, pouring all that love into their daughter, giving her everything he had.

Scully stepped further into the room, her movements slow and deliberate so as not to disturb the quiet intimacy of the scene before her. She felt a tear escape and roll down her cheek, but she didn’t wipe it away. This was a moment to be felt fully, with all its complexities—the joy of seeing Mulder with their daughter, the grief of what had been lost with William, the love that bound them all together.

Mulder must have sensed her presence because he looked up, his eyes meeting hers across the room. For a moment, neither of them spoke, the weight of their shared history passing between them in that gaze. Mulder’s expression softened, and he offered her a small, understanding smile—one that told her he felt it too, the pain and the joy, the loss and the love.

“Hey,” he whispered, his voice low and tender. “She finally fell asleep.”

Scully smiled through her tears, stepping closer until she was standing right beside him, her eyes fixed on their daughter’s peaceful face. “She looks so content,” she murmured, her voice thick with emotion.

Mulder nodded, his gaze drifting back to the baby in his arms. “She’s perfect,” he said softly, his voice full of awe.

Scully reached out, placing a hand on Mulder’s arm, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her fingers. “You’re amazing with her, Mulder,” she said, her voice breaking slightly as she spoke. “You’re such a wonderful father.”

Mulder’s eyes flickered with something unspoken, and he looked back at her, his expression pained. “I missed so much with William,” he whispered, voicing the thought that had been lingering between them. “I wish… I wish I could have been there for him like this.”

Scully swallowed hard, her heart aching at the vulnerability in his words. She knew how much it still haunted him, the time they had lost with William, the moments they could never get back. She felt the same pain, the same regret, but she also knew that they couldn’t let it overshadow the love they had now, the family they were building together.

“I know, me too. But, you’re here now,” she said gently, her hand tightening on his arm. “And that means everything. She's so lucky to have you.”

Mulder’s eyes shone with unshed tears, and he leaned in to press a soft kiss to Scully’s forehead, lingering there for a moment as if grounding himself in her presence. “I love you, Scully,” he whispered against her skin. "I’ll never take this for granted. I promise, for better or worse.”

Scully closed her eyes, letting his words wash over her, feeling the truth of them settle deep within her heart. She knew that the pain of the past would never fully go away, but she also knew that they had found something beautiful in the midst of it all—something worth cherishing, worth fighting for.

She pulled back slightly, looking up at Mulder with a soft smile. “I love you too,” she whispered, her voice full of the depth of her feelings. “And I’m so glad we’re here, together, with her.”

Mulder nodded, his gaze tender as he looked down at their daughter once more. “Yeah,” he murmured, his voice filled with quiet reverence. “Me too, Scully. Me too.”

They stood there in the nursery, the weight of their shared history heavy but bearable, supported by the love they had for each other and for the little life they had created together. Scully knew that the future would hold its challenges, that the pain of the past would resurface from time to time, but in this moment, she felt a sense of peace, of contentment.

And as she leaned into Mulder’s embrace, their daughter sleeping soundly between them, Scully knew that they would face whatever came next together, as a family—stronger, closer, and more determined than ever to make the most of the time they had been given.

Chapter Text

Dana Scully sat alone in the dimly lit living room, the soft glow of a nearby lamp casting long shadows on the walls. It was the middle of the night, and the house was silent save for the occasional creak of the floorboards or the distant hum of the refrigerator. Mulder was upstairs, likely still asleep, unaware of the turmoil that had been building within her.

Her daughter was just a few weeks old, fragile and small, but already fiercely loved. Scully’s heart ached with the depth of that love, a love that had grown from the moment she’d first felt those tiny kicks inside her womb. But now, as she sat in the quiet of the night, a different kind of ache settled in—a deep, gnawing doubt that refused to be silenced.

She wrapped her arms around herself, feeling the remnants of her postpartum body still adjusting, still healing. It had been a difficult pregnancy, more so than she had let on to anyone, even to Mulder. The physical challenges were one thing, but the emotional weight she had carried was another. Now, with her daughter finally here, that weight had shifted, but it hadn’t disappeared. Instead, it had morphed into something darker, more insidious.

Was I selfish?

The question echoed in her mind, relentless and unforgiving. She had been asking herself this for weeks, for months, ever since the day she had learned she was pregnant. But now, in the stillness of the night, it felt more pressing, more urgent.

Scully had known the risks—had seen them laid out before her in black and white during countless appointments and consultations. She was a doctor, after all; she understood the statistics, the probabilities, the potential complications. At 54, the odds had not been in her favor, yet she had chosen to go through with it. She had chosen to bring this child into the world, knowing full well the risks it posed to both herself and the baby.

Was it wrong? Was it selfish to want this, to want her daughter so desperately that she had been willing to gamble with her own health, with her daughter’s health?

Her thoughts spiraled, pulling her deeper into the dark corners of her mind where guilt and fear thrived. She thought about the moments in the NICU, watching her daughter fight for every breath, and the memory twisted her heart. Had she made a mistake? Had her desire for a child blinded her to the reality of what could happen?

Scully leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees, her hands covering her face as the weight of it all threatened to crush her. She had always prided herself on being rational, on making decisions based on facts and evidence. But this—this was different. This was emotional, personal, and far messier than anything she had ever faced, since everything that had happened with William, at least.

Her breath hitched as she tried to control the tears that were threatening to spill over. She wasn’t supposed to feel like this, wasn’t supposed to doubt her choices now that her daughter was here. But the fears were there, gnawing at her resolve, making her question everything she had done.

The image of her daughter flashed in her mind—those tiny fingers grasping her own, those wide, curious eyes that seemed to see right through her. Scully loved her daughter more than anything in the world, but she couldn’t shake the fear that she had done something wrong, that she had let her own desires overshadow what was best for her child.

Suddenly, she heard the soft creak of a floorboard behind her, and she looked up to see Mulder standing in the doorway. His hair was tousled from sleep, his expression a mix of concern and love as he watched her from across the room. He didn’t say anything at first, just crossed the space between them and sat down beside her on the couch. A sense of Deja vu crept up on her as she recalled a similar moment in the morgue beside her son's presumably dead body.

For a moment, they sat in silence, the weight of the unspoken words heavy between them. Then, Mulder reached out and gently took her hand in his, his thumb brushing over her knuckles in a soothing gesture.

“Talk to me, Scully,” he said softly, his voice low and comforting. “What’s going on?”

Scully hesitated, unsure if she could even put her thoughts into words. But the gentle pressure of Mulder’s hand in hers, the way he was looking at her with such understanding, gave her the strength she needed.

“I’ve been thinking,” she began, her voice barely above a whisper. “About everything… about whether I was selfish to bring her into the world at my age.”

Mulder’s grip tightened slightly on her hand, but he didn’t interrupt, just listened as she continued.

“I knew the risks, Mulder. I knew how hard it would be, not just for me, but for her. And yet, I wanted her so badly that I… I went ahead with it anyway.” Her voice wavered, and she had to pause to steady herself. “And now, after everything we’ve been through, after seeing her in the NICU, I can’t help but wonder if I made the right choice.”

Mulder was quiet for a long moment, his gaze steady on her, as if he were weighing his words carefully. When he finally spoke, his voice was filled with a tenderness that nearly broke her.

“Scully, you made that decision out of love,” he said. “You weren’t selfish. You weren’t thinking only of yourself. You were thinking about her, about the life you could give her, the love you could give her.”

He paused, his eyes searching hers, and Scully felt the warmth of his belief in her, in their daughter. “Yes, there were risks. There always are, no matter how old you are, no matter the circumstances. But you took those risks because you believed in something greater, because you believed in her.”

Scully’s eyes filled with tears, and she blinked rapidly to keep them from falling. Mulder’s words were like a balm, soothing the wounds she hadn’t realized were so deep.

“You’re an incredible mother,” Mulder continued, his voice thick with emotion. “And our daughter… she’s going to grow up knowing that. She’s going to grow up knowing how much she was wanted, how much she is loved.”

Scully let out a shaky breath, her heart swelling with the love she felt for the man beside her and the child they had brought into the world. Mulder had always had a way of seeing through her doubts, of cutting through the fog of her insecurities and reminding her of what really mattered.

“I just want what’s best for her,” Scully whispered, her voice trembling with the weight of her emotions.

“And you’re giving her that,” Mulder said, his voice firm. “You’re giving her everything she needs—a mother who loves her, who will fight for her, who will be there for her every step of the way.”

Scully looked into his eyes, seeing the truth of his words reflected back at her. She had made her choice out of love, out of a deep, unshakeable belief in the life that she had carried and brought into the world. And as she sat there, holding Mulder’s hand, she felt some of the weight lift from her shoulders, replaced by a quiet sense of peace.

She would continue to worry, she knew that much—because that was what mothers did. But she also knew that she wasn’t alone, that she had Mulder by her side, and that together, they would do everything they could to give their daughter the best life possible.

“I love you,” Scully whispered, squeezing Mulder’s hand.

“I love you too, Scully,” he replied, leaning in to press a soft kiss to her forehead. “And I love our daughter. You don't have to share this burden alone. Let me curse God for a while.”

Scully nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips as she leaned into Mulder’s embrace, feeling the warmth of his love wrap around her like a blanket. She still had doubts, still had fears, but in this moment, they didn’t feel so overwhelming. In this moment, she could believe that they had made the right choice, that their love would be enough to carry them through whatever challenges lay ahead.

And as she closed her eyes, resting her head against Mulder’s shoulder, Scully allowed herself to hope, to believe that they had done the best they could, that they had brought their daughter into the world not out of selfishness, but out of love—a love that would guide them through the rest of their lives.

Chapter Text

Scully sat quietly at the kitchen table in their Unremarkable House, the soft glow from the window casting long shadows on the walls. She rubbed her hands over her growing belly, her thoughts swirling in the quiet morning air. Mulder, standing near the counter, was pouring his second cup of coffee, already deep in thought about some new conspiracy theory he'd uncovered. He looked up, sensing her silence, and came to sit across from her.

"You okay, Dana?" he asked softly, his tone filled with the kind of concern only someone who knew her as intimately as he did could express.

Scully smiled briefly, the corners of her lips barely lifting before fading again. She had been carrying so much inside her, the weight of the public's judgment and her fears for the baby. She loved Mulder and this child, but the world outside their little house wasn’t always as understanding.

"I'm fine," she said, though her voice betrayed her unease. "I've just been thinking."

Mulder raised an eyebrow, his typical Mulder gesture. "That's never good," he teased lightly, trying to coax a smile out of her, but this time it didn’t work.

Scully exhaled deeply, resting her hand on her belly. “It’s not you, Mulder. It’s… me. It’s everything. This pregnancy… at my age…” Her voice trailed off, her eyes dropping to her hands as they traced idle circles.

Mulder reached across the table, his hand brushing hers, a grounding presence she had grown to rely on over the years.

“Scully, I know you’re worried, but…” he started, but she shook her head.

"It’s not just that," she interrupted, her voice firmer. "It’s the way people look at me, the way they talk. It’s like... I’m this anomaly, this freak of nature. Fifty-four years old, pregnant. It’s not supposed to happen, not naturally, not without everyone questioning it. I feel like I’m under a microscope again—like we used to be at the Bureau. But it’s worse now. It’s my body, my life, my choices. And everyone has an opinion.”

Mulder frowned, his brow furrowing. “People are idiots,” he muttered, his protectiveness flaring up as it always did when someone or something hurt Scully. "You shouldn’t care what they think."

She gave him a look that told him it wasn’t that simple. “I don’t care what *they* think, Mulder, but… I’d be lying if I said it didn’t affect me. Everywhere I go, people ask questions. Why would a woman my age want to have a baby? Isn’t it dangerous? Irresponsible, even?” Her voice cracked, and Mulder squeezed her hand tighter.

“I don’t hear anyone asking those questions about you,” she added after a moment, her voice quiet but laced with something deeper—resentment? Frustration?

Mulder blinked, unsure where she was going with this. “What do you mean?”

“You’re fifty-seven, Mulder. Almost sixty. And no one bats an eye at the fact you’re going to be a father again at your age. No one’s questioning your decision, or your ability to handle this. It’s like... it’s expected. Common. Men in their sixties, and seventies, even, having kids. And no one judges them the way they judge me."

Mulder opened his mouth to respond but stopped, realizing she was right. It wasn’t something he had thought about, at least not in the way Scully had. Society was far more forgiving to older men becoming fathers than it was to older women becoming mothers. It was an unspoken double standard, and in this case, one that had escaped his notice.

Scully sighed, her eyes softening as she looked at him. "I don’t blame you, Mulder. It’s not your fault. It’s just… hard. Being the one under the spotlight, all the time. Feeling like I have to defend my decision, defend our child, even before she's born.”

Mulder shifted in his seat, his usual confidence faltering as he realized how deeply this was affecting her. He had always admired Scully’s strength, her ability to face the world’s harsh judgments without letting it break her. But this… this was different. This was personal, intimate in a way that even he couldn’t fully understand.

“I wish I could take that away from you, Dana,” he said quietly, his eyes searching hers for something—comfort, reassurance, anything to ease her burden. “But you don’t owe anyone an explanation. Not for this. Not for us.”

Scully nodded, though her worry remained. "I know. But it doesn’t stop the whispers. The looks. And I can’t help but wonder if they’re right sometimes. What if something goes wrong? What if I’m not strong enough, or capable enough? What if…” She paused, her voice barely a whisper, “What if I lose her, Mulder?”

His heart clenched at her words, and he stood up, moving around the table to kneel in front of her. He placed his hands on her knees, looking up into her face with a kind of intensity that only Mulder could muster.

"You won’t. You are the strongest person I know, Scully. You’ve survived more than anyone should ever have to, and you’ll survive this. We’ll survive this. Together. You’re not alone in this. Like, I told you before, I’m here, and I’ll always be here, no matter what.”

Scully’s eyes welled up, the emotion finally breaking through the walls she’d been trying to keep up. She leaned forward, resting her forehead against his, letting the silence between them say what words couldn’t.

Mulder wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close, feeling the warmth of her body and the life they had created together growing inside her. It didn’t matter what the world thought, what judgments they faced. In this moment, all that mattered was them. Their family. Their child.

And as long as they had that, they could face whatever came next.