CATEGORY: SRH

RATING: NC-17, and I mean it. This story contains SEXUAL SITUATIONS AND LANGUAGE. It's not quite as graphic as some of my stories - a little more romantic and sweet - but nevertheless erotic. So, if you don't like graphic stuff - STOP NOW! Forewarned is forearmed.

SUMMARY: Walter Skinner finally meets the right woman, Kimberly Cook, and takes a second trip down the aisle. But as in anything there are issues. But never fear, there is a very happy ending. FEEDBACK - YES PLEASE, AND THANK YOU SIR, CAN I HAVE ANOTHER? Comments, suggestions and healthy debate are always welcome. Flames? I use them to roast weenies, hamburgers and Italian sausages on the grill.

TIMESPAN/SPOILER WARNING.: Set after my three Skinner "music" stories. See my web site at: https://www.squidge.org/3wstop to read those. This is a direct sequel to "Fortissimo into Crescendo", the fourth part in what is now a series. So you may want to read the other stories first.

Some brief references to Pusher and Piper Maru.

KEYWORDS: story romance Mulder Scully Skinner Kimberly Kim NC-17

DISCLAIMER: Walter Skinner, Kimberly Cook, Fox Mulder, Dana Scully as well as all other incidental X-Files characters mentioned belong to Chris Carter, Ten-Thirteen Productions and 20th Century FOX Broadcasting. No copyright infringement is intended and no profit is being made from their use. 

Nocturne in Black and Gold
by frogdoggie 

The Present - a Thursday in June... 

"I thought you had to study this weekend?" Walter said, smiling into the phone, "don't you have that exam on Monday?" 

"That's next Monday. Lord, I thought I told you that, Walter. I've just got too much on my mind I guess. No, I don't need to study this weekend." 

"Oh, I'm sorry, Kim. I know. I'm just giving you the business. Of course I'd love to come to dinner at your place. I think it would be great." 

"Well, that's ok - you never know though - I could have forgotten. I've just got so much going on right now. Would you like lasagna Saturday? I make a mean lasagna." 

"The meaner the better," Skinner replied with good humor. 

Walter S. Skinner nodded his head and kept smiling to himself. He was terribly proud of Kim. She had gone back to school to study law and had quit the Bureau just after he was admitted for treatment at Holy Respite Psychiatric Center last year. He missed her efficiency as his Executive Assistant but he certainly valued her as a companion a hell of a lot more. And he was ecstatic that she was at last realizing her life long dream to become a lawyer and public defender. 

He still marveled at the way events had turned out for the better for them both. After his torture and breakdown at the hands of Marita Covarrubias and Alex Krycek and his hospitalization, Walter Skinner had thought he would never find anyone to share his life with again. 

Kimberly Cook, his executive assistant at the Bureau, at the time, had begun to visit him every week at the hospital. At first, during the six months of his recuperation, he had withdrawn into himself and remained uncommunicative and sullenly uncooperative until treatment brought him around. Kim visited him even during the period where he did little except sit and stare out the window. When he regained his ability to relate to people he began to relate to her in a big way. Over the six months in the hospital he had become very fond of her and looked forward to her visits with pleasure. 

Eventually he started to admit to himself that maybe, just maybe he was falling in love with her. It was something he could hardly imagine because he had been so recently wounded emotionally. His feelings on love and romance went way beyond the old adage *once bitten, twice shy*. But nevertheless he had feelings for her. Deep feelings he never expected to experience again. 

It was also hard to believe he could love Kim because he had known her for 5 years and in all that time he hadn't thought of her as anything else other then an intelligent, efficient and loyal employee. 

It only became apparent to him later as he got to know her that Kimberly Cook had been in love with him for years but never said a thing. He could kick himself now for being so unobservant as not to have noticed something that significant going on under his nose. 

"All right, it's a date then. Can you bring some wine? Any good red will do," Kimberly asked. 

"My plans exactly. What time would you like me to come over?" 

"Oh, why don't you make it 4. You can help me throw the meal together." 

"Hey, that would be excellent!" Skinner enthused. 

"I thought you'd like that, knowing your way around a kitchen like you do," Kimberly commented with a laugh. 

"Oh, that would be a picture wouldn't it..." Skinner started to chuckle. 

"Well, you do look good in an apron." 

"Yeah, but I can't do the accent." 

"Walter?" 

"Yeah, babe?" 

"I love you." 

"I love you too. I'll see you at 4 on Saturday then." 

Skinner hung up the phone. He meant every word. He loved her with all his heart and soul. In fact, he had plans for the weekend to show her just how much he did love her. He thought about the ring waiting in the safe back in his apartment in Crystal City. Walter Skinner was ready to make a second plunge into matrimony. He was preparing to ask Kimberly Cook to marry him on Saturday. 

He was as nervous as hell but he knew it was the right decision. He hoped to hell she'd say yes. He thought she would. If she did he'd be the happiest man alive. If she didn't he'd move on with a heavy heart but he'd cope as best he could. 

Skinner picked up the phone and dialed his executive assistant's extension. 

"Angela?" 

"Yes, sir?" 

"You can send in Agents Mulder and Scully now." 

"Yes, sir." 

xXx 

Saturday was a beautiful June day. One of the first nice days they'd had that month. There had been a lot of rain for June. 

Skinner took his red, '61 Chevy Corvette convertible out for a spin on the highway before taking the exit that would send him to Kimberly's apartment. 

He'd been there before, of course. He still remembered the first time. It had started out a little awkwardly but ended up just fine. 

xXx 

The previous June.... 

"Just a minute!" Kimberly Cook called as she checked her hair in the mirror. God she was so nervous. This was the first time she was having Walter to her apartment. Sure, it was just for coffee before they went to a movie, but she just wanted everything to be perfect. 

She shoved her hair around on her head and groaned. "God, I look like hell," she grated. If she hadn't spent all night studying she'd might look less like The Wicked Witch of the West and more like herself. 

"I'll be right there!" she called out again as she headed to the door. 

It was still hard to think of him as Walter, Kimberly thought. After all, she had worked for him for 5 years and in all that time had never admitted or allowed him to see her feelings for him. He had been Walter S. Skinner, Assistant Director, her Boss, one of the most hard-nosed, tight-assed tough but fair, A.D.'s at the Bureau. Now that she was seeing him socially she found out a lot of his rep was a mask put on in order for him to function in that environment. Outside the office, and under that gruff exterior was a tremendously kind, caring and thoughtful human being. She knew she loved him even more now. And she was sure more every day that he loved her too. 

As she dashed for the door she tripped over Clarence, one of her two tabbies, "Out of the way, cat," she laughed. He scooted off into the apartment towards her bedroom. Clarence was skittish around company. Darrow on the other hand was waiting right by the door, doglike, in his willingness to act as greeter. Kimberly hoped Walter liked cats. She hadn't even thought to ask, she realized suddenly, with chagrin. "Well, too late now," she thought as she moved to open the door.

Walter Skinner stood outside Kimberly Cook's apartment door, a dozen red roses in his hand. They were tea roses - small and delicate. He preferred them to the big ostentatious and thorned roses that most people bought to impress. These were elegant and understated and he thought suited Kim to a tee. They'd look beautiful against her strawberry blonde hair and alabaster skin. He smiled nervously to himself. 

This was the first time he would be inside her home. Get a grip he thought. Walter, you're 46 years old. You were wounded in the war, gut shot by an assassin, married and divorced not to mention nearly beaten to death by a Czech madman - how can this be making you nervous? 

It was making him nervous because one - he *was* 46 years old and Kim was only 30 - 16 years his junior and he went between feeling like an old man, an older brother (or in really bad moments of doubt - her Daddy), and feeling like a lovestruck teenager. And two - he didn't know how to handle the feeling. Also he was woefully out of practice on this courting thing. God all mighty. 

The phrase fat, bald and over forty leapt into his mind. Well, at least the fat part was inaccurate. He prided himself in staying in shape, dressing well and presenting a good picture to the world. He had to in his job. But the bald and over forty bit made him wonder how in the hell Kim ever saw anything in him at all. 

The long and the short of it was - he was out of control emotionally - damn - he was in love with her - he had to admit it. No denying it any longer. If love at first sight was in the cards he had dealt himself a Royal Flush here. But, he didn't know if he should celebrate the feeling or quake in his shoes. He felt like he was 16 years old again on his first date, and scared shitless. God help him. 

As he heard Kimberly on the other side of the door he decided to take a piece of advice that Fox Mulder had given him long ago. He began to repeat it like a mantra, "Go with the flow. Go with the flow." He squared his shoulders and set himself to breathing more regularly. He sincerely hoped he didn't have too constipated a look on his face. Jesus he felt like he was going to die. 

"Hi," he managed to croak out as the door swung open. 

"Hi...Oh, those are beautiful," Kimberly said as she spotted the flowers Skinner had in a death grip. 

"Uh, yes, do you have a vase?" he asked quickly. He was afraid he was in danger of crushing the delicate buds in his hamfisted, kung fu like, petrified grip. 

"Yes! Come on in and let me go get one," Kimberly replied with a gentle smile, "God he looks fabulous," she thought as he followed her inside. Skinner had opted for a black t-shirt, jeans, sports jacket, and yellow Timberland work boots, rather then the trademark designer suit he usually wore on their evenings out together. She loved him in a suit but she had to admit he looked fantastic in jeans as well. 

"Oh, God, Darrow!" Kimberly dithered, "I'm so sorry, he's always underfoot...did he scratch you?" She was mortified. 

"Hey, that's ok. I'm the one who should be apologizing to him. These are steel tipped," he answered displaying one of the work boots. I wear them around the garage when I'm working on the Chevy. There was no way he could have hurt me. I just hope I didn't hurt him." 

Walter and his ex-wife had owned a cat. Dogs were out with their lifestyle but they'd wanted a pet. So a friend had given them Jimi Hendrix. Jimi had been a huge neutered black Tom Cat and Walter had been unable to resist giving him the name. When Jimi had finally died of old age Skinner had cried like a baby. 

Walter bent down and made a little comforting noise at the cat, "Come here boy, I didn't mean to tread on your honor like that." 

Kimberly was smiling. Darrow looked at Skinner a bit distrustfully but then he sidled over and humped up his back to be petted. Skinner ran his hand over the cats back and then gently picked him up. He stroked his head and the tabby purred. 

"No hard feelings I guess," he smiled over at Kimberly. She felt her heart swell with emotion. Well, she knew it was love for sure now - he liked her cats - she laughed to herself. 

"Why don't you two go in the living room and get further acquainted. I'll find that vase," she replied quietly. 

"Ok, that would be great." 

"Would you like your coffee now, Walter?" 

xXx 

"Hey, babe," he said kissing her cheek when she opened the door. Her eyes grew slightly large when she saw the flowers. Then they grew soft. 

"Well, I'd better get a vase again," she replied softly. She knew she was blushing. It amazed her that he remembered that first time he'd been to her apartment. The first time he had kissed her. It touched her deeply. She reached forward and took the roses and the bottle of wine, "I'd better put this in the fridge too," she added. 

Skinner watched her walk down the hallway into the apartment. She looked exquisite in her jeans and t-shirt he thought. She had a bearing like a dancer really and she was in shape. He had never noticed this about her when she worked for him. She had been sitting down so much of the time. But the first time he had watched her walk down her apartment hallway he thought to himself - she just floats, she's so graceful. 

Clarence and Darrow both twined around his feet. He knelt down and addressed them both, "Look you guys, can you take a powder, just for tonight? I've got business with your mistress here - and it's going to be hard enough to conduct without fuzzy butts interrupting me. How about it? There's smoked salmon in the deal if you guys scram." 

As if on some silent signal both cats sauntered off down the t-shaped hallway towards Kimberly's bedroom. A room Skinner had never seen but knew was there nonetheless. 

Walter Skinner and Kimberly Cook had never slept together. It didn't bother him at all. For some reason he didn't need sex to tell him he loved this woman. He just enjoyed being around her, their conversation, the tenderness. Oh, they'd held hands, kissed, necked a little. But he didn't feel the urgent need to try to bed her. She aroused him - no question. But there wasn't that animal lust that he had experienced with Dana Scully and Marita. He felt protective of Kimberly - more tender towards her. Maybe it was because she seemed...younger. But he thought it was more likely that he adored and respected her, knew he really loved her, and wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. 

He'd known he had some problems in that area, however. After what had happened between him and Dana Scully and then Marita his therapy had made him realize that he was often using sex as a substitute for real intimacy with women. Men were a different matter. Well, one man, John Rand in Vietnam. He'd loved John as much as he'd loved Sharon, his ex-wife. But John was dead and that was a closed book now as far as he was concerned. 

No, there had been no pressure now that he understood this fact about himself and his female partners, to have sex with Kim. So, he had never been in her bedroom, or even spent the night in her apartment or she at his apartment in Crystal City either. 

He also knew he had to open up and talk about his feelings once in a while for crying out loud. That's why his marriage to Sharon had failed in the long run. That and the sex thing again as well. He'd pretty much been the *wham bam, thank you ma'am type* back then. Thank God he'd at least gotten over that in the years since his divorce. At least now he knew he could at least be a halfway decent lover. He knew when the time was right he and Kimberly would find all that out together, find pleasure together. He could wait. 

He intended to lay it all out on the table for Kimberly tonight. He wanted to tell her he had found his true soulmate and it was her. And he wanted to ask her if she would do him the honor of becoming his wife. He just hoped he could get through it all without losing his nerve or making a fool out of himself. But that was a stupid fear really - Kimberly was the most understanding person he knew, outside of maybe Dana Scully - but he wouldn't go there now - no way. 

He stood back up and headed towards the kitchen to help her prepare dinner. 

xXx 

Later... 

"Mean lasagna was an understatement," Skinner said over the soapy lasagna pan. He was indeed wearing an apron, the one that he had worn to help fix the meal was now tied around his hips again. He dunked the pan back down into the sink and scrubbed it some more. 

"Well, thank you sir, that's the third time you've said it so I know is must be true," Kim laughed slightly from her spot where she stood cleaning off the dining room table. 

Skinner knew he was repeating himself a bit. He was starting to get nervous. He rinsed the pan and held it up to make sure it was clean as he tried to still his thoughts. 

"You can just put that in the drainer, Walter," Kim advised him as she came back into the kitchen. Skinner did as instructed. "Why don't you go in the living room and get comfortable. I'll fix some coffee. Would you like some brownies? I made some yesterday." Skinner smiled. Kimberly was a serious chocoholic. 

"Coffee would be fine. And yeah, I have sort of a sweet tooth tonight - a brownie, or two, or three..." he chuckled. 

"Ok, coming right up, now scoot," she laughed swatting him on the ass. He dodged and she just missed him. They laughed again. 

"Don't be too long fussing on my account - you need to relax too. You haven't exactly had a stress free week, Ms. Cook," he mock frowned in imitation of the old Walter Skinner she had seen so often behind a desk in the J. Edgar Hoover building. 

"Yes, sir," she smirked grinning at him. 

He exited the kitchen and headed into the living room. His sports coat was on the back of the couch. He went to it, retrieved the box with the ring and shoved it into his jeans pocket. He hoped the lump wasn't too obvious. Who was he kidding he thought with chagrin. His dick was semi erect. Damn it. Well, it would hide the diamond that was for sure he smiled ruefully. He sat down on the couch and waited for Kimberly to come out with the coffee and brownies. He was readjusting things when she came back with a tray. Normally he would have stood but right at the moment that wouldn't have been a real good idea. She saved him the trouble. 

"Don't you dare get up - I've got this just fine," she scolded seeing him shift in his seat. He smiled with relief as she placed the try before them. She sat down next to him on the couch. 

"Let me pour the coffee," he said quietly, "Take a load off, Kim." 

Kimberly sighed contentedly and kicked her slippers off - she pulled her legs up under her on the couch and turned to face Walter as he began to pour the coffee. He took his black and she liked cream and sugar. She noticed his hand shook slightly as he poured the cream into her cup. 

"So, how is Mulder?" she asked carefully. 

Fox Mulder and Dana Scully had been on a particularly difficult X-File in Wisconsin. Mulder had been injured in the line of duty - knifed by some crazed worshipper of Satan. Scully had saved his life in the field but it had shaken them both badly. Their relationship didn't intrude on the job but in a situation like that Skinner couldn't see how it wouldn't intrude. They were lovers for God's sake and cared for each other beyond words. 

To their credit, especially Scully's, they had kept their cool and their professionalism under the circumstances. Mulder had survived the ordeal. Of course Scully was a doctor so she knew emergency first aid. They both knew they had to stay calm and emotionally detached. If they hadn't Mulder might have bled to death. It wasn't until he was safely in a hospital bed that Scully had showed her true feelings and then that had been alone with Walter Skinner in the meditation/chapel. Skinner had held her as she cried almost unending tears. His were arms of comfort by this time - not arms of a lover. That was long past for them. But he felt a friendship and respect for her, and Mulder too for that matter. He was there for support. Mulder's near death had upset him deeply as well. So they had clung to each other in the chapel and both had cried their tears together until they were spent. 

"He's champing at the bit to get out of the hospital. Scully's about to spank him I think," he replied, handing Kimberly her coffee. 

Kimberly laughed, "Well, Fox Mulder just might like that idea." 

Walter raised an eyebrow, "You might have a point there, lady." 

They both laughed easily. Skinner took a sip of his coffee and swallowed it with relish. Kim made an excellent cup of coffee. She had her coffee specially blended and ground. It was always magnificent. He secretly thought that just maybe it was something she did for him because she knew he liked his coffee so much. He loved her even more for it. 

Kim knew about Mulder and Scully. Dana Scully had become her friend as well as Skinner's in the intervening months. Walter hadn't told her about his having sex twice with Scully. That would come though, especially if she accepted his proposal. He could tell her then. He didn't want to withhold anything then. After all he had all ready told her all the details about Marita. Scully was just a more sensitive subject. 

But, he had thought it advisable to tell Kim about his agent's involvement. It would avoid really awkward incidents. He had of course asked Mulder and Scully's permission first and been given their blessing. By the time he'd asked he'd all ready admitted to them both that he thought Kimberly just might be the real thing. It was a simple step for them to give him their permission to bring Kim into their confidence as well. 

"But, really Mulder's doing fine. He'll be released at the end of the week. I'm making the stubborn bastard take a two week medical leave of absence anyway, though. I made it an order. I think he can stomach the two weeks. Longer he'd rebel, but two weeks he'll accept." 

"Dana will help enforce that I'm sure." 

"What's wrong, Kim?" 

"Oh, nothing really." 

"Nothing? Sounds like Dana Scully - *I'm fine, sir*. I don't buy that from one of my agents, Kim. I don't want to buy it from you. Come on, what is it." Skinner put his coffee cup down on the tray. 

Kim sighed and put down her cup as well, "It's just that - well sometimes I'm glad you aren't a field agent. I know you'd rather not be behind a desk. But...well I'd hate to think if something...God, you've all ready been wounded by that bastard Luis Cardinal. I don't know what I'd do if..."

She stopped realizing the implications of her words. Skinner looked into her face. There it was, everything he was looking for and everything he felt in return. He reached forward and gently gathered her into his arms. He placed her head against the side of his face. Kimberly was almost as tall as he was so there was no tucking her head under his chin. He easily rubbed her hair and face against his rough cheek. It was a wonderful sensation. He felt his cock jump but he ignored it and instead concentrated on what Kimberly had just said. She leaned against him. 

Kimberly did laugh. He could feel her smile and the gentle tickling of her laughter against his side, "Holly was so embarrassed about that Walter. She couldn't even look in your direction for months after that incident with Modell." 

"Well, she wasn't to blame. But she really packed a wallop." 

She continued to giggle a bit. Skinner pulled her away from his chest and looked into her eyes. He pulled her to him and they began to kiss. The kiss started out gently and then grew more eager. Both their lips parted almost simultaneously and then their tongues began to dance together. 

Kimberly tasted coffee and Walter's unique masculine flavor. Skinner tasted pure ambrosia and he was in heaven. 

They broke the kiss. Both were very breathless. Walter pressed his legs together to mask his arousal. And then he felt the ring. He pushed Kimberly slightly away from him, holding her hands tenderly and lightly down between them. 

"Kimberly..." he began. 

"Yes?" she replied looking at him carefully. 

"Uh, look. You know I'm not the most demonstrative man. I mean I think I've gotten better at it. I'm just not...well I'm not like Mulder or that type of guy. I'm not great with words and feelings sometimes. I just don't have the gift for gab, babe. Never had it, never will I think." 

"You used to be that way when I worked for you Walter. But, I don't think you're like that at all now. I think...I think you're doing just fine letting me know how you feel. And you've been more the man of action anyway haven't you?" she suggested smiling into his eyes. 

He smiled a bit too, "You flatter me, Kim. Really. But this, this kind of thing is difficult for me to do," he replied taking a large swallow. 

"What kind of thing?" 

He let go of her hands and reached into his pocket. He brought out the box with the ring. "Ok," he thought. "This is it, make it or break it time." He made a small noise in his throat. "Don't panic!" he admonished himself. Then he thought, "Hell, I'd better do this up right." He got up from the couch seat and got down on his knees. 

By this point Kimberly was staring at him, eyes brimming with tears. She looked like a beautiful, delicate, doe trapped in a car's headlights for a second. Skinner hoped she wasn't going to bolt and die under the tires. 

"Asking the woman I love to marry me. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife, Kimberly Cook? Would you spend the rest of your life with me?" he asked finally. He didn't know what else to say so he opened the box and proffered it carefully in her direction. He held his breath. 

"Oh my God," she whispered taking the box, "It's beautiful." She bit her lip and looked up at him from under her eyelashes. They were wet with tears. A stray tear fell down her face. Skinner felt his eyes beginning to mist up as well. He struggled for control. 

He got up off his knees and sat next to her. Once again they were kissing. This time it was hot and searching with the emotion of the moment. Both of them were moaning a little. Kimberly ran her hands down his chest. He cupped her face and deepened the kiss. He began to run his hand down onto her breast and his cock got completely hard as he tweaked her nipple through her t-shirt and bra. 

Kimberly's breath was coming in small gasps. Skinner considered distantly that this might be it - their first time together as lovers. He knew it was possible. If she wanted him he was hers. He tried to remember if he still had a condom in his wallet. He moved over her body eagerly, aggressively, and suddenly Kimberly was pushing him away. He stopped immediately, pulling back to study her face. 

"What's wrong?" he asked with concern. She seemed upset, afraid almost. He stroked her cheek. 

"Oh, Walter - I love you." 

He wracked his mind to think of everything that Sharon used to say was wrong when she didn't want sex. None of them seemed like Kimberly at all. None of them but one and he knew he was blushing as he asked the question. His hard on withered. It seemed as if his blood supply rushed from his dick up into his face. 

"Is it the wrong time of the month?" 

Kimberly looked at him and she blushed scarlet, "NO! Oh I'm sorry. Good Lord, I can't be embarrassed about that I guess. I mean you've been married before for crying out loud. And I'll have to fact that kind of thing now that...Oh, I feel so idiotic! Please forgive me." 

Skinner looked at her in bewilderment and confusion. "What had gone wrong. What did I do?" he asked himself. 

Kimberly saw the emotions flowing across his face. She felt even more contrite. She had to clear this up right away so as not to hurt him any further. 

"Did I frighten you?" he asked finally, softly, miserably. 

"God, no, Walter. I could never be frightened by you. Really. No, it's not you - it's me." 

Skinner stared at her as her mouth worked. Finally she blurted it out, "Walter, I'm a virgin." 

"I wish I were," she answered lowering her eyes. 

"Well, I...Oh hell I feel completely foolish. I mean I want you for God sake. Why not, I keep asking myself." 

"I can't answer that for you Kim. Maybe if you talk it through with me you can try to explain to both of us." 

"I can try," she replied. Skinner took her hand and let her talk. He could listen. He was very good at it. 

"I don't think I have the right to criticize you for any issues or baggage Kimberly. I mean who stuck with me while I was in the hospital practically drooling and staring into space because a woman I'd balled had betrayed me and her other lover raped and tortured me? I don't think I have to complain about issues." 

Kimberly smiled and patted his knee, "Walter, I appreciate your honesty. I always have. That's why I'm telling you all this now. I...my greatest dream was that you would ask me to marry you. But now this whole thing...well..." 

"Kim I seem to remember something about a boyfriend when you first started working at the Bureau. I remember an incident - didn't the jerk call you at work? I recall you were upset. Was there something that dick did to...to make you frightened as well." 

"Well, I did have the one boyfriend but we broke up. And yes, he was a jerk. He called me once at work and I just wigged out. We never slept together. He...he hit me one night and I told him to take a damn hike in no uncertain terms." 

Skinner squeezed her hand. She was one gutsy woman he thought. As brave as all get out, "Go on, Honey." 

"Well I broke up with him just before I went to work for the Bureau. And you know what - and I know this sounds silly too - but I fell like a ton of bricks for you right during the job interview. I mean bad Walter. I'm surprised I got the damn job. I mean I acted like a complete ditz. A real blonde. A moron. God, you were married then, Walter. I saw the ring," she shook her head and smiled at her own discomfort. 

"Love a first sight?" Walter chuckled gently, "Babe, you don't know what that just did for my ego." 

"I thought it was ridiculous at the time - I mean, God, love at first sight - how trite, how corny. And a married man yet! Good move, Kimberly." 

"I think it was...wonderful," Skinner replied quietly, "Uh, I don't think it's corny at all." "How could I," he thought. He pretty much fell for her the same way. 

He still could not imagine how he had missed her feelings. But he hadn't expected to see anything like them directed at him. And as she had so astutely mentioned - he was also married for part of the 5 years Kim had worked for him. In fact, he'd been trying and failing to salvage his 17 year marriage. After the divorce he'd immersed himself in his work in order to forget. So, Kimberly Cook became a mere blip on his radar. A nice woman, good employee, review her and give her the raise she so justly deserved, and that was all. Now he felt a twinge of guilt to think he had never seen her as a real person. A woman. Well, he intended to make up for all that now. In spades. 

"Well, it wasn't so wonderful if it got me to this point and now the thought of making love with you...scares the living hell out of me." 

"Yes, I have had counseling. I've made a lot of progress. But I just...Oh look - just let's forget this for a while. I...I think I need to..." 

"Kim, it's ok. Listen. Some women want to wait to make love with the right man until after marriage anyway. If you had told me that I would have respected that decision as well. The fact that you're afraid because you're a virgin and had a lack of real sex education is nothing to be ashamed of and I can respect your feelings there too. It's not your fault someone let you down when you were younger." 

"I know that, Walter. I...I just don't want to hurt you. To make you think I don't love you because I can't...not yet." 

"Oh God," Skinner breathed out. He took her in his arms again and she settled against him. 

"I never want you to think you've hurt me because you don't want sex. I mean I know some of the stuff I told you about Marita must have made you think...well I don't think that was a very attractive picture of my wants and needs either. Shit. I imagine that didn't help us here." 

"Kimberly pulled back and looked at him seriously, "Walter I know what went on with you and Marita was...wasn't your fault either. Don't worry about that. None of that scared me at all. I've been with you long enough now to know what you're really like. What that bitch did to you was the greatest mistake of her life if I ever catch up with her." 

Skinner raised an eyebrow and grinned as well. Kimberly Cook as Emma Peel. Yeah, he could see it. She'd kick Marita Covarrubias' ass if she had a chance. He got serious again however. 

"Look, I'll tell you what - let's, let's just give this some time. I mean we can handle the wedding thing any way you'd like - put it off as long as you want. And I won't pressure you about any of this. One thing my therapy did Kim was let me know where my hang-ups are now. I can appreciate intimacy a hell of a lot more now anyway. I'd...I like just what we're doing here together as much as I'd liked it if we had gone into your bedroom and had sex. So, why don't we just take all this as it comes. I need to take you home to *Momma* first anyway babe. You haven't even met my family - and boy are you in for a trip there," he laughed, "I hope you'll still want me at all, after you meet Esther and my sister Sylvia and her brood." 

Kimberly laughed her musical laugh. She grabbed him around the shoulders and kissed him on the top of his head. His glasses were knocked a bit askew and he laughed as well. 

"You're a gem, Walter - really. I just love you so much. I appreciate everything you've said. I know we can work this out. And really when it comes right down to it - I do want to wait until after the wedding for that last step. Intercourse is a big step for me, Walter. I'm not a total conservative prude - I mean it's not religious with me - I just always thought I didn't...you know want to give it away to just anyone. I wanted my first time to be with the man I really loved - the one who had made the commitment to marry me. And after that first job interview with you - well I knew you were the one I loved. I hoped beyond hope that...I'm sorry - I wished your marriage *would* fail because then I might have a chance. I felt terribly guilty about that too. Awful. But, I can't lie and say I didn't think it. So, now I just think I need time to get over this stupid nervousness and of course, I still would like to wait until we're married. And once again, I hope you'll understand." 

Walter Skinner understood. And he also knew that even if she was scared shitless on their wedding night it wouldn't matter. He was going to give her all the time she needed and be gentle and patient with her when she was ready to make love with him - whenever that might be. He patted her knee in return. 

"Kimberly - anticipation is half the pleasure. I know everything will be fine. And I think exploring each other on our wedding night sounds like the best idea I've heard in a long time. Hell...it'll be just marvelous." 

They both laughed then with the thoughts of things to come. Skinner reached over and grabbed a brownie, chomping on it with gusto. 

"Jesus, this is good, Kim. You'd better get one before I clean that plate," he mumbled, his mouth full. 

"No problem. You know how I feel about chocolate," she giggled grabbing for her own bakery with a wide grin. 

xXx 

Mid-August... 

Walter Skinner was in early. August was turning out to be one pisser of a month - busy at the FBI. Also, Mother Nature wasn't cooperating. It was hot and humid in DC. Grotesque really because you started to sweat like a pig the minute you left the confines of any air conditioning. He hated this type of weather. It was a nationwide problem really. Probably why things were hopping at the J. Edgar Hoover building. Crime was always up when it was this hot. The temperature set *him* on edge. He figured at his age he just couldn't tolerate the heat as well anymore. He sighed as he walked past his executive assistant's vacant desk. Angela wasn't in yet. Well, who would expect her to be. It was 6 AM for God's sake. 

He unlocked the door to his office and stepped inside. The air wasn't on yet. It was stifling. He cursed, and turning on his heel went in search of a cup of coffee. He left the door open so that the room could clear out a bit. 

No coffee of course. Well, no big deal. He started to get the makings together. He really couldn't stay grumpy or angry. Couldn't when he thought of Kimberly. Things were going so well with them now that she had accepted his proposal of marriage. He was almost floating on air he admitted with humor. Walter Skinner, romantic swain. It was a hell of a funny picture really. He still remembered Mulder's reaction when he had told him about his upcoming plans back in June. 

"I'd wondered why you look so much less constipated, sir. I'm glad to hear it wasn't reliance on Ex-Lax. No, seriously - Hey, congratulations, Walter! That's just great. God, wait till I tell Scully." 

Dana Scully had come up to his office on the pretext of a conference request and hugged him until he thought he was going to stop breathing. 

"Have you set a date yet, Walter." 

"No not yet...we need to work out some stuff with my family and her family as well...uh but soon." 

"Well, I'll tell Kim if she needs any help, to just call me," Scully had replied, "I'll be there for you both," she added. 

He had taken a couple of vacation days. He and Kimberly arranged to get away and go down to Ambler, Pennsylvania so that she could meet his family. It had been a trip. But he could laugh about it now. 

Kimberly had been nervous but not overly so. Walter had told her everything he could to prepare her for Esther. His kid sister Sylvia was no problem really although Walter had warned her about Roger, her fireman husband, and the three wild Indian sons they had between them. Roger could be a loud-mouthed asshole sometimes. Skinner tolerated him because he was a saint with his sister. But he could be a pain in the neck. 

Esther Skinner was another story all together. Walter Skinner came from wealth. It wasn't a state of affairs he talked about much. He never threw it around. He hated anything that smacked of the ostentatious really. The obvious accouterments that money, even old money brought. Except for dressing well and buying the Chevy Corvette to restore, he kept his financial status in the background. 

Esther came from money and when she married his Father at the age of 18 she married into it as well for all intents and purposes. Walter's father, even at the age of 21, was well on his way to making his personal fortune. He was rich as hell by 40. And dead at 55 from the strain. He'd left the estate to Esther of course. And she'd been more then capable of managing the empire. She loved business, in fact, and had a real knack for it. Trucking was the linchpin of their wealth. Skinner Transport was still going strong today and had branched out into all sorts of other businesses. 

But, there had been problems. Esther had been pregnant with Walter Skinner before marriage. Marriage and sex she was ready for. A baby - no. She had been an ambivalent Mother to say the least. There had always been that distance, a formality between Walter and Esther. Walter had been raised by nannies early on as well. At one point, he wasn't even sure who his Mother really was. At some points today he still wasn't positive. 

But to be fair - Esther had done better as he got older. She could talk to him then and really, she did love him in her own fashion. She had been proud when he had enlisted even if it had come after a particularly difficult adolescence. If he hadn't enlisted he might have been in juvenile detention. She had nursed him after he returned stateside with his Nam war wounds. 

When he had entered the FBI Academy she had been bursting with pride. Her first choice was for him to enter into the family business with her. But when he opted for Quantico all those thoughts disappeared. Walter being in federal law enforcement seemed to suit her to a tee. 

His marriage to Sharon and his settling down calmed a lot of her fears regarding his stability as well. She had always had trouble seeing past her early failures with him and his juvenile rowdiness. Sharon was going to be good for him. When the marriage dissolved she had been profoundly upset. So, Walter's relationship with his Mother had become strained again. His comparatively recent hospitalization had really made things difficult. 

As he and Kimberly had driven down to Ambler he had hoped the prospect of a new, more successful marriage would heal the rift between him and Esther. He was vastly relieved when it did. 

xXx 

Past tense...a drive back from PA 

"I'm glad we didn't bring the Corvette," Walter told his passenger as the Pennsylvania scenery flew by the Oldsmobile Intrigue's window, "we really need the air conditioner." 

"No kidding it's hotter then The Devil's armpit out there isn't it?" Kimberly asked rhetorically. 

Skinner guffawed, "The Devil's armpit..." 

Kimberly chuckled, "One of my uncle's expressions." 

"Have you called them yet?" 

"They're still on retreat - until tomorrow. I can reach then at home then." 

"Oh yeah, sorry I forgot." 

Kimberly lapsed into silence again. Walter glanced over at her. He hoped nothing was wrong. She looked so...pensive. 

"Is anything wrong, Kim." 

She looked over at him, "Wrong. God, no, Walter. Everything is just so right - I can't believe it. I mean, I'm so happy." 

He smiled, "Hell, yes. I can hardly believe the way you wowed Esther. But I guess it didn't surprise me. After all - you're studying to be a lawyer - you better be able to handle a difficult case." He had a smirk on his face. 

Kimberly caught the smirk and poked him in the ribs, "You shouldn't talk about your Mother that way Walter. Esther's a wonderful woman. We got along famously." 

"In a pigs eye she's wonderful. She's worse then my friggin' drill Sergeant was in the corps for God's sake. The fact that you got along was only testament to the fact that she's capable of admiring someone who gives her as good as she dishes out." 

"Well, there was that..." Kimberly giggled. 

"Yeah, I think the corker was when you convinced her to use that Door County Wine at dinner. My Mother thinks she's God's gift to the wine connoisseur world. You really floored her with suggesting a wine that was so well received." 

"I couldn't in good conscience as a rather passable cook..." 

"All right...gourmet cook...I couldn't let her serve that wine she originally wanted to serve. I mean Good Lord - that was a terrible year. And I just happened to know that that little Door County Winery really made a lovely, delicate wine. So...viola - a hit," he waved her hand airily. Walter caught it in mid air and kissed her palm. He dropped it quickly to concentrate on traffic. 

Kimberly smiled again at him. Love filled her eyes. She really was on cloud nine and the fact that things had gone well with his family had brought a great deal of peace to her mind. She wasn't as certain how things were going to go with Uncle Joseph and Aunt Estelle. But for now she was optimistic and on top of the world. 

"But you know Walter, I don't think the wine was all that made her think maybe I was an acceptable match for her son." 

"What do you mean?" he smiled, glancing at her again. She was really smirking, and then she started to laugh. 

"What?" he laughed back. He was having trouble driving so he pulled off at the rest stop that loomed up ahead. He found a spot in the crowded parking lot in an end space, and left the engine running so they could still get the air. 

"What?" he asked again. Kimberly was more under control. 

"Thank you for stopping Walter, I really need to use the ladies room now..." she teased putting off her answer further. 

Skinner groaned, "Woman, you test me..." 

"All right, I'll tell you. I can get through it now and not choke I think," she replied her eyes dancing. 

"Spill it..." he added facing her. 

"Well, you remember that first night when Esther made such a elaborate show of telling about your old room there at the house and how it was all ready for you - the bed all made?" 

"Yeah I thought, Crap just what I needed to see, black light acid rock posters and my old lava lamp. Not to mention the fucking English hunt scene bed sheets - Christ I hated those things." 

Kim started to laugh again, but she got herself under control in order to finish the story, "Well at least she had redecorated..." 

"Your point, Ms Cook?" 

"Well what I didn't tell you was that right before she came out to tell everyone that story - you know when she and I were in the kitchen...she asked me if you and I wanted the bed in the guest room - I mean together."

"She what?" Skinner's mouth dropped open. Screw Esther. She always played those PC games. Piss up a rope. 

"Now, don't get mad - I knew the question for what it was - it was a test. I mean come on Walter, I'm naive in some respects but in others...I knew what she was thinking. She was thinking I was some gold digger sleeping with her Walter - his ex-executive assistant who - who knows, might have even been responsible for the break up of his previous marriage and now was sniffing around the family fortune. I mean I think she was fishing to find out if I was a whore for the money. Not good enough for her son at the very least." 

"I'll strangle her..." 

"I said don't get angry, damn it." 

"Kim, Christ on a crutch - how could she do that to you. To even imply...Her little Walter is going to kick her PC ass..." 

"Walter, honey, you may be a 46 year old ex-Marine and Assistant Director at the FBI but to Esther you're still her little Walter. She loves you big man. I saw it in her eyes. She was *hinting* at all those issues because she doesn't want to see you get hurt again. Really, deep down she was standing guard for you - that became apparent really quickly dear. She cares and she cares deeply." 

Skinner frowned slightly, "She *never* thought of me as her little Walter, Kim. At least I never thought..." he let his voice trail off. Maybe he *had* missed something critical here regarding his Mother. Something really important. 

He touched Kimberly's face and ran his hand over her cheek with a tender touch. 

"What did you say to her, babe? I mean..." 

"I told her I loved you but you had never even touched me that way. I told her I had my personal convictions regarding sex before marriage and you respected them and had been a complete gentleman. I also told her that if she doubted me she should ask you whether it was true - to feel free to do so." 

"I bet that shut her up." 

"Actually she gave me a hug, Walter and told me she thought I was a woman of importance. HA! Sort of a play on the title of that Oscar Wilde play." 

"Oh yeah, that sounds like Esther - the literary guild maven." 

"Well, at any rate. I think that whole conversation went a long way towards setting her mind at ease as to my intentions. I can't blame her for any of her suspicions really. I mean don't take this wrong, Mr. A.D. - but a lot of younger women chase older eligible divorced men for the money. Fact of life - especially in your Mother's venue. So I don't think you can criticize her for being cautious." 

"You're right of course. Ok, point taken. You know something..." Skinner replied looking into her eyes. 

"What?" 

"Oh..." 

Kimberly couldn't say anything else because Walter was kissing her then. For a moment both of them forgot the world. They forgot about Esther, the trip, the car, the rest stop...they forgot about it all. Everything but the heat of their passion. It was lucky the air conditioning was on after all. 

There was a tapping on the car window. Walter released Kimberly and spun around, all senses on the alert. His hand went instantly to the Glock in the holster on his hip. 

"Walter!" Kimberly exclaimed quickly. 

"Fuck," Skinner said under his breath, "God damned rent a cop." He took his hand off the Glock. 

"May I help you?" he asked. 

"Is everything all right here, miss? the rent a cop asked fixing Kimberly with his eyes. He seemed to ignore Skinner but Walter could tell in reality the kid was perceptive enough to be giving him some attention. The kid was unarmed though. Skinner could have dropped him with one shot. Stupid and careless he cursed inwardly. Someone should hang his employers by the balls. 

"Son, what's the problem?" Skinner asked patiently. 

"Everything's fine, uh, Kevin..." Kimberly added stretching to catch the name on his little lapel tag. 

"Well, miss, uh, sir..." he began stepping back slightly. He had gotten a close look at Walter Skinner now and he was just a little bit aware of what he might be in for if the man in the car decided to cause trouble. 

"I was just concerned that, well that you were in trouble, ma'am. I mean do you realize what that looks like..." he gestured towards them. He obviously had mistaken their kiss in the car for something more sinister. Walter couldn't fault him for it. It was his job to walk the lot looking for trouble like that as well as other infractions. But he shouldn't have confronted them directly. He should have called for back up or the highway patrol officer who must have belonged to the official vehicle he now noticed was parked off to the side of the building. He had risked getting his clock cleaned, or worse my knocking on the window. Besides - it was damned annoying. 

"Do you realize what *this* looks like, son?" he asked quietly displaying the badge and ID card. 

The kid's eye popped wide, "Is that real?" he blurted out before he thought better of it. 

"Boy - if it isn't real you're in big trouble..." Skinner growled. He fanned back his jacket to display the Glock, "it's real, Kevin. Call your supervisor, or the highway patrol officer on that thing and let's verify it if you've got any doubts," he added more gently gesturing towards the walkie talkie Kevin had clenched in his hand. 

"Kevin, it's ok really. This *is* Assistant Director, Walter Skinner. I'm Kimberly Cook, his fiancee. We're heading back to DC and we really wanted a Coke or something. It's as hot as hell out here even with the AC." 

Skinner watched the exchange between Kim and the kid. The kid was frying in the heat. He must have been walking his beat out there with no hat or sunglasses for a while. His face was red, most likely sunburned. Skinner cursed whoever ran the security there again. He could see Kevin's mental wheels spinning. He hoped he wasn't going to have to sit through an annoying waste of time conversation with the boys supervisor. He'd probably ream the guy a new asshole if he did. Kevin finally spoke. 

"I'm sorry, Ms. Cook, Mr. Skinner. It's just that well...you can't be too careful here. We get a lot of molesters and other perverts trolling for trouble. I just wanted to make sure things were all right here. One again, my apologies. Enjoy your Cokes..." he added smiling weakly. He backed off and then turned to leave them alone. Skinner could just hear him mumble something under his breath. Kimberly heard it too. 

"Jesus. Fiancee? He looks old enough to be her fucking father..." 

"Walter, it...it's all right," Kimberly said quietly. 

"Walter, so what..." 

"So what? Kim, maybe I do look like your Father. I mean I am 16 years older then you. I look older then 46 I think. I mean shit..I..." 

"Walter, we have to get this out in the open right away if this is a problem for you. I've never mentioned our age difference. It makes no difference to me whatsoever. It doesn't make any difference to our friends - people like Dana and Fox, your Mother and Sister are obviously comfortable with it. Why should it matter to anyone else?" 

He didn't answer. She touched his shoulder, "If you think I don't find you attractive or...or desirable for some reason because you think you look old or...God, Walter please don't think that. I think you're incredibly handsome and desirable. I...is it because...because I won't make love with you? Do you still think that..." 

Skinner fixed her with his eyes, "Kimberly it has nothing to do with you at all - it's me. I'm not sure I'm right for you given the fact that I'm so much older. I've been thinking about this for a while. There are some issues we haven't talked about here...Like how old will I be in 10 years - what happens when...I mean if...well I know you said you've thought about kids. I mean - I'm almost 50, lady - we'd better think how old I'll be when the kids are graduating high school - if I'm still around at all." 

"Walter..."

"What I'm trying to say is maybe you should find someone younger...someone who can give you a family if that's what you want and be around to see them grow up. Someone who likes the same kind of music, the same movies, the...someone who doesn't look like a Daddy Mac pervert groping you in a parked car..." he finished miserably looking out through the windshield. There he had said it. All of it had been on his mind for a while. His Mother's comments and questions to Kim coupled with the rent a cops assumptions had brought it all to a head. It was all honest fear, it embarrassed him to admit he felt that way, and it hurt. 

"There's only one problem with everything you said, Walter," Kimberly replied with vehemence. 

"What?" Skinner asked snapping his head to look, the strength in her voice capturing his attention immediately. 

"I don't want someone else - I want you. Don't ever forget it. I love you and no one else. I wouldn't have agreed to marry you if I didn't love you. After all, I do want to lose my virginity one of these days you know," she smiled at him, her brown eyes misting over. 

Skinner looked deeply into her eyes though her tears. He knew that was it. No more doubts. His fears were groundless. They would face any obstacle, take whatever life brought them and deal with it. No more sweating the little things. The big scheme of things was them as a couple and the rest be damned. He took a deep breath. He was tearing up as well and he didn't want to cry in front of her again. Besides the mucus really screwed up his sinuses in this kind of weather, he thought wryly. 

Kimberly smiled and touched his hand. She had seen the tears in his eyes. She pulled her hand back and snuffling wiped her eyes. Walter reached over and using his thumb helped her wipe each eye in turn. 

"I'm not going to kiss you again, Ms. Cook because with my luck there's another Kevin lurking in the next aisle. Do..do you want that Coke now, though - I'm buying," he said struggling to keep his voice steady. 

"I'd love that Coke, Walter. But I'm buying. That should give Kevin something to think about if *he's* lurking about..." she laughed. 

xXx 

Present - the coffee machine perks. 

Skinner poured some coffee from the half full pot and placed it back under the spout. The coffee began to drip out again. He carefully hefted the FBI logo mug and headed towards his original destination. Skinner had come in early to catch up on paper work but first he had some other business. Business in the basement. Business with Agent Fox Mulder. 

He'd had an idea Mulder would be in early because of the Fenner case. He was right. He stood in the door of the basement office watching Mulder read a file for a couple of minutes. He nodded a little. The guy was so engrossed he had no idea Skinner was standing there. Skinner cleared his throat. Mulder looked up over his glasses and grinned slightly at his boss. 

"What's up Daddy Warbucks?" he asked. 

"Shit, Mulder let's try to keep a semblance of decorum here, shall we?" Skinner frowned. Then he couldn't keep a straight face. He grinned. 

"Sorry for the...politically incorrect greeting, sir. Come on in and sit down," Mulder chuckled, "What can I do for you?" 

"I have a favor to ask, Mulder. If you say No, I'll understand - but I'd like to ask nevertheless." 

Mulder stared at him pleasantly, "Shoot..." 

"Well Kimberly and I have set the date for the wedding." 

"Oh...that...that's great Walter. When?" 

"Sir, that's Halloween. I thought Kim said her uncle was a Baptist Minister, that date..." 

"I'm aware of the date, Mulder. And yes, he is a Baptist Minister. He's also not coming to the wedding," Skinner replied quietly. His face grew serious and sad. 

"Oh?" Mulder replied, eyebrows raised. 

"Yes, neither is her aunt for that matter. There was a...a little disagreement over my marrying Kimberly it seems." 

"What the hell?" Mulder said with surprise in his voice. 

"Yes, as fantastic as it may seem, Mulder, Kimberly's Uncle and Aunt didn't see me as worthy to marry their niece," Skinner sighed with a heavy dose of self-depreciating irony in his voice. 

Mulder picked up on the sarcasm and dejection but fended it off with a joke to try to lighten Skinner's mood. 

Skinner did smile a little. But he grew serious again quickly. "Mulder, I'm afraid the fact that I'm not Baptist - that I'm not religious at all actually, disturbed them." 

"Oh, that's unfortunate," Mulder winced a bit. 

"And also there was the age issue." 

"They felt I was too old for her. You know - she wants a family, eventually Mulder. They just thought I was too old to be around later to help her raise the kids - whatever. Just not young enough to be a good husband, I guess." 

Mulder pursed his lips and reaching up took off his glasses. He set them down on his desk and rubbed the bridge of his nose. 

"Can I be honest, sir." 

"Mulder, I don't expect anything less," Skinner replied.

"When Scully and I finally admitted our feelings to each other, I, and to some degree Scully, had a lot of fear over issues. I mean age wasn't one of them - there isn't much of an age difference between us. But - well shit - you know the baggage I was bringing - am still bringing into *our* relationship." 

Skinner chuckled a little, "Granted, Mulder. But it's not as if Dana Scully didn't know what she was getting into." 

"Well, I don't think Kimberly Cook is unaware either, sir. I mean she did work for you for 5 years and in the time since you've been together I think she knows exactly what she wants and what she's getting. She's a very perceptive woman." 

Skinner looked down at the floor and cleared his throat. 

"I love her Mulder." 

"My point, exactly Walter. And she loves you. Isn't that all that matters? The rest of that shit will work itself out. What her tight-assed aunt and uncle think is really immaterial. Their loss, Walter." 

Skinner looked up into Mulder' face. It was really amazing how far he had come in valuing Mulder as a friend. Five years ago he would never have believed this conversation would be possible. Of course they still kept the professionalism intact, but they tried to make a personal connection as well and Skinner was very grateful for it. 

"I appreciate you saying that Mulder. I just feel sorry for Kim too - it's pretty much broken all ties with the only family she has left..." 

"Sir, you're her family now - and from what you said earlier I think your Mother is going to be a good Mother-in-law instead of a bitch on wheels. So, Kim can take some solace in that - right?" 

"Shit, Esther shocked the hell out of me," Skinner laughed, "She's totally into planning the wedding. Kim's very excited about receiving all the help. Yeah, Esther's really rising to the occasion." 

Skinner still marveled about his Mother. That he had been just a trifle wrong regarding Esther's emotional growth and the depth of her feelings for her only son was an understatement. Well, that's what happens when two people are so much alike, so bullheaded, he thought. There's bound to be a communication breakdown. He was just sorry this one lasted almost his entire life. 

"So why Halloween, Walter? It sounds like fun, but..." 

"Well, that was sort of Kim's idea. Believe it or not even with the Baptist upbringing that was always her favorite holiday. She likes the fall and...I don't know - just the whole pumpkin carving, costuming thing. It did sound like fun too, so hell - I went along with idea." 

"Kimberly's sort of rebel, isn't she Walter? I mean she didn't stick with that strict Baptist upbringing did she?" 

<She didn't stick with it but it stuck with her,> Skinner considered distantly. Their unfortunate views on sex had marked Kimberly and for a split second Skinner hated Kim's uncle and aunt's living guts. But he dismissed the feeling as unproductive and pointless now anyway. Kim would be fine. He'd help her to be fine and yes, she was a rebel and he wouldn't have her be any other way. She really wasn't too uncomfortable when it came to losing her uncle and aunt's dubious support. There hadn't been a lot of love lost between any of them since they had more or less considered raising Kimberly a burden anyway. 

"Yeah, she's a rebel all right, Mulder. She's going to have to be a little rebellious and tough to be a public defender. Plus - hell I like her that way anyway," he smiled a little again. 

Mulder nodded and smiled back, "So, are you costuming for the wedding? It seems to me I have an old Zorro outfit somewhere..." 

"I can imagine that whole idea really stuck it to her aunt and uncle too," Mulder laughed. 

"They're shitting bricks, Mulder...and you know what...Kimberly could care less," Skinner smiled. 

Skinner sensed he needed to let Mulder get back to work. He had to as well. But he did have the one final bit of business. 

"Thanks. But Mulder I do still need to ask you for that favor." 

"Oh, sure, anything - what is it?" 

"I'd like it very much if you'd be my best man," Skinner replied quietly. 

"If it's a problem..." Skinner began. 

"Problem? Hell no - I'd be honored to do it, Walter. Shit - I'd love to wear one of those orange cumberbuns." 

Skinner barked a laugh then, "Oh you'll be wearing one, Mulder - no doubt about it. And thanks, I...I really mean..." 

"It's ok, don't mention it...now get the hell out of here, I gotta read this file and make some notes for my report before my hard nosed Boss reams me a new butt hole..." 

Skinner reached for his coffee mug and smiling widely got up and left the basement office, his step light and his shoulders straight. 

xXx 

A night in late-August... 

Kimberly Cook took the plate of fresh veggies and several little sandwiches out of the fridge and unwrapped them carefully. She had made them earlier in the day and she hoped the wrap wasn't going to stick to the bread. She wanted Dana Scully to have a choice of light fare for dinner. With the heat the way it was she just had an idea Dana wouldn't want anything heavy. Kim didn't either. She had some beer and lemonade too so that they could stay cool. She smiled despite her nervousness. She would enjoy seeing Dana. 

Scully had become one of her closest friends since she quit the Bureau. They had become acquaintances just before Walter had his encounter with Marita and almost been killed. Kimberly had taken Dana into her confidence regarding her feelings for Skinner and she and Scully's friendship had grown since that moment.

Of course, she knew about Scully and Mulder. She thought it was wonderful that they were together but understood the need for discretion there. No sense in tempting fate or the powers that loomed over them to cause trouble. She was just beginning to be aware of those powers. Walter had been gradually explaining to her about the X-Files, Mulder and Scully and the evil forces that threatened them all. She knew he was worried for her in that regard. But she was forewarned now. She was going into law so that would help her to understand further the intricacies of what might be hidden behind the scenes. It would also make her a valuable asset as an ally. She felt good about that idea. 

She had even begun to take a gun safety course. Walter had bought her a compact Smith and Wesson automatic. He'd given it to her almost in embarrassment - a strange pre-wedding gift he had said - but she figured it was damned necessary under the circumstances. She was becoming quite a good shot. No, she figured she was doing everything she could to face whatever lay ahead. Everything including talking to Dana Scully about Walter Skinner tonight. 

Walter had told her earlier that week about his having sex with Dana. At first she had been a bit shocked because really - and this was funny - the main reason was, she didn't see Dana Scully as his type at all. When she had said it the tension in the air was eliminated almost immediately. Both of them had laughed a bit over the comment and Walter had much less trouble explaining what had happened in those two encounters. 

No, she was going to talk to Dana tonight and let her know that there could never be any hard feelings. She was still her friend and they should just forgive and forget and get on with their lives. 

Dana would have ample proof of these sentiments. Kimberly was going to ask her to be her maid of honor. She was also going to ask her to baby-sit for Clarence and Darrow while she and Walter were on their honeymoon she mused with an inward giggle. That should really tell Dana she trusted her. Not just anyone was allowed to take care of her two cats. So, Dana would realize that they were on good terms. And that was good because she had a few other things she wanted to ask her, a few personal things. Being on good terms was going to make asking those questions a hell of a lot more easy. 

Kimberly was just putting the sandwiches and veggies down on the coffee table in the living room when the doorbell played the strains of *Beethoven's Fifth*. She hated chimes - her doorbell had a wide selection. In October she planned to program it for *The Wedding March*. Corny she knew, but corny could be fun and she thought Fox Mulder especially would get a kick out of it. 

"Coming," she called heading for the door. Darrow was all ready in position as official cat ambassador and Clarence was paused in the hall a look of *should I stay or should I go* written across his furry face. 

She looked through the privacy hole to see Dana waving up into it outside and then she unbolted the several locks she had on the door. She pulled the door open. 

"Dana, is it ever good to see you," she smiled. Scully looked somewhat wan, but with the look of obvious pleasure in seeing her that Kimberly was displaying she brightened up. 

"Kim, you know I was just about to say the same thing," Scully replied with a world weary smile. 

Both women laughed easily then and embraced, hugging each other warmly. Kim always got a bit of a laugh over their height difference. When they hugged the top of Scully's head came up to Kim's larynx. 

"Come on in, Dana. I've got some sandwiches. I hope you're at least a little hungry." 

"Oh, I'm sure I can manage something you've made, Kim." 

"Would you like something to drink as well - beer?" Kimberly asked as she walked down the hallway. Scully followed her, the two cats trailing in her wake. Now that Clarence knew company was familiar he joined Darrow in anticipation of food mooching. 

"Beer? Now you're talking," Dana chuckled. 

"Go on in the living room and help yourself to the food. I'll be right in with the beers," Kimberly called from the kitchen. 

xXx 

Later... 

"Kim I really appreciate you feeling this way about it. God, I...I was so nervous. I didn't know what you'd think. I thought you'd hate me. And My God - I could hardly believe when you asked me to be maid of honor. I am so flattered I can't even tell you!" 

"Oh, Dana I could never hate you over anything as easily explained as what happened between you and Walter. Besides, it was really before you had any knowledge of how I felt about him at all. Even if you're having sex with him had been...well if you two had intended to stay lovers at that point...Oh hell - you know what I mean. And as for the maid of honor idea - I can't imagine anyone I would want to ask but you." 

"Yes, I understand. But I still hope you'll accept my apologies. I'm just so embarrassed over the whole incident." 

"Well, if it will make you feel better I'll accept them. But I also want to tell you I don't think it's necessary and I appreciate the fact that you're still such a wonderful friend to both Walter and me - that both you and Fox are such good friends." 

"Oh, you're welcome Kim. That goes without saying." Dana Scully replied looking down at her hands. She was a bit uncomfortable with Kim's honest emotion. Even though Dana had come a long way in accepting emotionalism in most matters she still had a certain formality around people that reared it's head on occasion. She fought against it however. She didn't want it to get in the way of her friendship with Kimberly Cook. 

"Do you want another beer, Dana?" 

"I'd love another beer, Kimberly. After the week I've had - oh yeah. Another beer would be just what this Doctor ordered I think. But don't get up, I'll go. I know the way. Can I get you one too?" Scully replied smiling. 

"Great, yes, please." Kimberly answered, "The Geffner case?" she asked. Scully rose from the couch, and stood there for a moment. She looked suddenly very tired again. 

"Well, it was a VCS case - Mulder's turn at bat really. Profiling another serial killer. I went down to Athens, Georgia for the autopsy on the last victim. Mulder got back yesterday. It was nice for Walter to go to the gym with him by the way. I think - I know he really needed the company and the basketball will help him unwind." 

"I understand Dana," Kimberly replied. She had seen Walter agonize over assigning Mulder to the Geffner case. He knew it would be bad and he knew what the consults did to Mulder. But to be frank, Mulder had been the best shot the FBI had in bringing the killer to justice quickly. Walter would assign the best resource regardless whether it was human, or equipment and eat the consequences. It was part of his job and Mulder's for that matter and if it was difficult, well that's what happened when you signed on for J. Edgar's tour of duty. 

"I understand too, Kim. I know Walter did it because Mulder would get his man very quickly - but..." 

"But it's hell on him, and you missed him too didn't you, Dana?" 

"Yes. God! I knew this...I knew when we finally became involved there were going to be moments like this but it's still hard. Lord Kim - I really appreciate being able to talk to you about these things. I guess it's lucky you are marrying Walter," she sighed, smiling a bit again, "We'll really be able to hold each others hands from here on out." 

"I'd like that Dana." 

"Me too, Kim. But, hey - let's not talk about the J.O.B. for heaven's sake - let me get those beers!" 

Scully headed into the kitchen. Clarence followed her. Both cats had fallen asleep in one of the overstuffed chairs in the living room but the prospect of kitchen patrol got Clarence up and at 'em again. Darrow was too lazy. He merely opened one eye and then shut it again. 

"Thank you, Dana!" Kimberly laughed. 

"Welcome." 

She had all ready asked Scully to cat sit. She now knew she would be the ideal choice. At least when she was around the little moochers would stay off the counters and the tables. 

Scully came back out carrying two Bud Lites. She sat back down and handed Kim one. The cap was all ready off so Kim took a pull and then sat the bottle down on the coffee table. Scully did the same. 

"Kim, I know there was more on your mind then discussing my lamentable affair with your husband to be, the maid of honor request, and the cat sitter position. You've got that little crease in your forehead. I think the Cooks and the Scullys must have been related somewhere along the line. Mulder tells me I get the Scully wrinkle in the same spot when I'm worried about something." 

Kimberly blushed scarlet. Well, it served her right. Dana Scully was a crack agent after all. She had half thought about not bringing up her last subject. It had been such a pleasant evening so far. 

"What, Kim?" Scully asked amusement warring with concern in her voice. She had noticed Kim's obvious flush. 

Kimberly picked up her beer and took another healthy swig. She put it back down.  

"I'm blushing like hell aren't I?" she chuckled slightly feeling her face. 

"Tomato time, Kim. Yes. I thought I blushed badly - but I think you've got me beat to hell and back." 

"Oh God." 

"Ok, Kim - take a deep breath and let's hear it. Remember this is Dana sitting here. You can fire at will and I'm not going to care." 

"I don't even know where to begin." 

"At the..." 

"Right...at the beginning." 

"Well that would be my aunt and uncle. The beginning I mean. I blame them I guess." 

"Oh Dana - damn it - I'm a virgin. I'm 30 years old and I've never...I'm getting married in two months and I've never been with a man and I'm scared shitless," Kimberly groaned. 

"You're a virgin?" Dana asked. She struggled to keep the shock out of her voice. 

"Don't try NOT to sound shocked Dana. It is damn shocking. I was raised to think sex was dirty by my tight-assed Baptist minister uncle and his wife. I have since found out that they resented raising me anyway. The piss poor sex education was just one of many things they foisted on me as an expedient means to make me behave when I got older. When I was young it was the strap. But that's all old news now. I've had therapy for this problem. I thought I was comfortable with it. But Lord now..." 

"You're frightened of Walter?" 

"I'm frightened of having sex with Walter. Oh Dana. I've always felt that when the right man came along and you know - after we were married - made that commitment - then I would feel secure enough, at peace, and that intercourse - well that things would be just right, be more easy, less scary, but..." Kim knew she was babbling and she hated herself for it. 

"Kim, you need to talk to your counselor right away - I mean before the wedding. Hon...you..." 

"I've talked this all out with her Dana. She's volunteered to be there for me if I need her but Jesus I don't want to be calling her from the honeymoon suite... How humiliating." 

"Well, then what do you want me to do? I'll help in any way I can. But really, Mulder would be better at this than I am. He is a psychologist after all and..." Dana Scully stopped talking. She realized suddenly that the analytical approach had been the wrong choice to make in this situation. Kim was starting to tear up. Scully kicked herself mentally. Of course she realized too late that Kim wanted a friend, a woman friend to talk too - not an FBI agent or scientist - and God All Mighty not Mulder. How more unobservant could she possibly be? It also began to sink in that she wanted to speak to her in particular. After all Dana Scully was in a unique position to tell her just what her man was like in bed in graphic detail. Scully winced inwardly over that prospect. She spoke quickly to salvage the situation. 

"Oh, Kim, Honey, I'm sorry, come here..." she stretched her arms out to the other woman and Kim slid across the couch and into her embrace. Scully hugged her for a minute and then let her go. 

"Can I get you some Kleenex?" she asked. 

"No. That's Ok. I'll be all right. I'm sorry." 

"Don't be sorry. I'm the one who should be sorry. I'm as thick as a brick sometimes Kim. Just ignore my Doctor Scully persona. It comes out around Mulder so much I guess I fall into it naturally when I don't need it. Just...let's just see if we can get rid of some of this fear. Why don't you...well what questions do you...I mean... are you afraid of pregnancy or..." 

"No, Walter and I have discussed children. I think we may try in a year or so - when I'm closer to getting my degree. But even with the age difference I'm not in any rush. And one of the first things I did after he proposed was go on the pill so the pregnancy thing isn't a issue at all. No, that's not what..." her voice faded away. 

"Then what?"

"I guess you can imagine why I want to talk to you, right?" Kim asked quietly. 

"Because I've been with him before?" 

"Well, yes." 

Scully pursed her lips slightly. That had been what she was afraid Kim was going to say. She took a deep breath. This was very awkward. She wasn't sure how to react or how to answer.

"Kim - this is pretty awkward for me - you must realize that."

"Do you think it's easy for me?" she asked her eyes downcast. 

Kimberly laughed, "I've watched a few tapes but really Dana those are so idiotic I think. I mean you have either the artsy fartsy erotic ones where everyone is obviously faking it, or the hard core fuck tapes where I swear to God they must be using stunt cocks because no one could possibly be that big." 

Scully fixed her with a blank stare for a moment, "Oh oh," she thought. "Well, maybe it was really my size difference with Walter. Mother Mary, I hope so. But we are going to have to address that size issue won't we? Oh my," Scully thought in chagrin. 

Kimberly noticed her reverie, "What?" she asked a bit nervously. 

"Huh? Oh, nothing I was just thinking about one of Mulder's more outlandish tapes - Listen I can tell you one thing right off the bat - if you're worried whether Walter's...whether he isn't gentle or something - forget it. He's a gentleman. Just because we got carried away that second time. It...well I was more then a willing participant in that encounter," Scully felt her own face redden, "It wasn't like I didn't want to go along for the ride so to speak. But that first time, Kim - I mean really he was so considerate...and tender." 

"I know Dana. He did explain all that to me." 

"Well, then you must know that he's also a very good lover. I'm not going to bandy about words here - he's a great fuck - all right. I think, well, Kim really I think at one point he thought he was in love with me a little bit maybe? I have to think that because he...he...God, he was just good - ok? Take my word for it." 

Kim laughed hard, "Well, let's not mince words!" 

"Well..." 

"No seriously...that helps more then you could know. I just hope I don't disappoint him." 

"Kim, he's in love with you - I mean crazy in love. You should hear the way he talks about you." 

"I know how much he loves me Dana." 

"All right. So, I don't think he's going to be disappointed. I'm taking it for granted that you've all ready talked about this with him. I mean uh - you must have." 

"Right." 

"Well, then if Walter Skinner knows you're afraid, Kim you don't have anything to worry about - take my word for it. He's going to be thinking of nothing but your feelings on the wedding night. I know he won't hurt you. He's a good man." 

"Oh I know that Dana. God, I love him so much." 

"I know it, sweetheart. But listen, I want to ask you something else and don't take offense all right?" Scully replied. 

"OK." 

"I can understand you wanting to wait for your wedding night to...to have intercourse. I mean - that's laudable. But you know there are things you can do just short of penetration to...well to experiment. A little exploration of each other before the wedding night might not be a bad idea, honey. If it wouldn't interfere with your values you might want to consider asking Walter to..." 

"Mutual masturbation was more what I had in mind." Scully answered honestly. 

"Oh. Uh, well I can think about it," Kim replied quietly. It wasn't a totally unreasonable idea. She didn't necessarily think it would interfere with her ideas about that special wedding night. And she really was curious. Besides, Kim all ready new about self pleasure. She did masturbate. In fact she had fantasized about Walter Skinner when she did. She would give it some serious thought. If the moment presented itself she'd see how things went. 

Dana Scully watched Kimberly's face as she mulled over what she had said. She smiled. She could see the wheels turning for sure. Maybe Walter and Kimberly would find out more about themselves before they were actually in bed on the wedding night. She thought it was a good idea under the circumstances. She nodded and cleared her throat. 

"Now, what else is bothering you?" she asked. 

"Oh really I guess I'm just worried I'll be inept or you know - I won't please him. But you've sort of addressed that..." she let her voice trail off again. 

"And..." 

"Does it hurt?" she asked in a very soft voice, "I mean the first time. I've heard every version of the scenario you can imagine. I have the clinical facts from my therapist Dana and loads of book knowledge. I know what's going to happen. I'm not that ignorant. It's just...this is so paranoid - but I just get the feeling everyone is trying to gloss it over. Like - "Oh Kim it will be just beautiful...God, my aunt told me it hurt like hell and she..." 

"Kim, look. I'm not going to lie to you - it may hurt. I...well, my first time wasn't too bad - I think I more then knew what to expect and the man I was with was older and he knew what he was doing. I think you're going to be in the same situation with Walter. It's just different for everyone, Kim. Uh, if it hurts tell him. He's not going to just...well...he'll stop. Don't worry about it." 

"I feel like such a fool Dana." 

"Don't. I don't think you can blame yourself for the miserable job your uncle and aunt did in educating you in the facts of life, Kim. You just have to be as prepared as you can be now with the knowledge you need and go with the flow. You and Walter are in love. You should consider your wedding night to be...it should be an opportunity to find out everything about each others bodies Kim. You can really have fun I would think. Just keep the communication lines open with Walter and I think everything will be fine." 

"God, I hope so, Dana. But I think you're right. And I'm not going to watch any more of those stupid porn tapes either. That was my girlfriend Stacey's idea. She and her husband use them in the bedroom. I thought they were boring really - plotless, and well like I said - no one could possibly be..." 

"Kim - uh I think we do need to discuss one other thing, Honey. But first - Could I have another beer?" 

xXx 

In the local gym near Fox Mulder's apartment... 

"I believe that's 21, Agent Mulder," Walter Skinner said grinning down at Fox Mulder. The younger man lay flat on the gym floor groaning theatrically with an arm placed over his face. 

"Get your Glock and put me out of my misery, Walter. I'll never live this down. And how could you take advantage of me like this anyway - I'm barely healed from that knife wound." 

Skinner bounced the basketball a couple of times next to Mulder's head, "Cut the crap, Mulder. You're the one that challenged me. *Come on old man, I bet you can't take me*. Christ. Suppose I just let you get even instead? Wanna go again." 

"Fuck no. I know when to quit. I'm not going to let it get around that you beat me at 21 twice in one night." 

"Ok. Fine by me. Want to go for a beer?" 

Skinner laughed his gruff deep laugh, and Mulder got up off the gym floor laughing as well. 

They headed for the door to the locker room and showers. 

"What was that shit Kim's uncle and aunt said about you being too old for her?" Mulder asked giving Skinner his lopsided grin. 

"Hey, you didn't spot me any of those points did you Agent Mulder?" 

"What - and get assigned to another VCS..." Mulder stopped short when he saw Skinner's face cloud over. Skinner stopped dead in his tracks and fixed Mulder with a tight frown and totally unreadable eyes. 

"Oh, hey, I'm really sorry. That was...shit..." 

Skinner sighed and bounced the basketball once again. It seemed to focus his thoughts for him. He tucked it back under his arm and spoke. 

"No listen...Fox. I know the Geffner case sucked. Shit - who the hell goes around killing six year olds for crying out loud. Sick perverts that's who. I...I assigned you because..." 

"I know. I was the best man for the job," Mulder sighed, "Listen, I understand that logically, sir. It's just...emotionally." 

"Ok, Point taken. Listen. You have some time coming - why...why don't you take Scully and just get away for a week or so. Take a break." 

"Walter - are you telling me to take a vacation?"

"Uh, hell. Do I have to make it a fucking order Mulder?" 

Mulder smiled, "Walter, I think under these circumstances I'm not going to give you any argument. It was hard on Scully too. She's going to appreciate the time off as well. Thanks, sir." 

xXx 

Later - a bar down the street... 

"No." 

"Shit..." 

"Yeah, well it's giving me fits Mulder I mean - God damn, I..." 

"You've never been with a virgin before?" 

Walter Skinner looked down at the empty glasses surrounding them both He studied his full glass of beer. The bar was pretty much deserted and they were seated at a secluded booth and he was devoutly glad. He could feel his ears reddening. The subject had come up completely unexpectedly and now he wished he had never opened his mouth. 

"Mulder, if you breath a word of this to anyone..." 

"Oh come on, Walter...I mean what's to worry here? Just say the words "the alley in back of Casey's bar"..." 

"Oh, yeah." 

"No shit, boss. If anyone needs to live something down...and besides you know I hold a confidence." 

"All right, I'll concede that for sure, Mulder. No. I've never been with a virgin. All the women I have been with were all ready sexually active. Even the girl I lost my virginity to had slept with someone else. I found that out later but I suspected it at the time anyway. I mean fuck - I'm as nervous as hell." 

"Well...Uh, I don't know what to say." 

"You don't have to say anything Mulder. Jesus." 

"Do you want me to tell you what..." 

"No, I know the biology for Christ sake." 

"No I mean what it was like for me." 

"Like?" 

Mulder looked down at his beer as well. He hefted the glass and took a swig. When he put the glass down he looked back into Skinner's strained face. 

"I don't mind talking about it if that's what's worrying you Walter." 

Skinner stared back at the agent for a moment. He was weighing the embarrassment quotient versus the need to know. But really all he had to do was think of Kimberly and he made up his mind. 

"Yeah, I...I guess I would like to hear what you have to say." 

"This was after I was all ready working in VCS. You didn't know me back then, Walter. Shit, I'm glad you didn't really. I was..." 

"More of a prick then you are now..." Skinner deadpanned. 

Mulder guffawed loudly. When he caught his breath he continued. 

"Bingo - with emphasis on the prick part. I was a real cocksmen, Walter. And arrogant in terms of knowing how good I was with the profiling. A real asshole combination. But mostly I just wanted to get laid as often as possible. I enjoyed putting notches on my gun - oh yeah. Until I met Sarah."

"The virgin?" 

"Yeah. I didn't know she was a virgin until we were in bed together. God knows why she even went with me. She told me afterwards that she was tired of being...well she was 43 years old and..." 

"Mulder this is one of your bullshit stories isn't it?" 

"Honest to God, Walter. No, it's not a lie. Seriously. I met this woman on a case. She was a material witness. We went out after the case was closed. Walter she was an ex-nun. I mean she'd just quit the church. She'd never been with a man. She also didn't look 43. You know - that contemplative life and all." 

"Christ, Mulder..." 

"Exactly..." 

Skinner picked up his beer, put it too his lips and drank. He swallowed hard. 

"No, Mulder I mean I can hardly believe this..." 

"It's true but if you don't..." 

"OK, fine. I believe you - go on." 

"OK, well this was DC of course. We went out for about a month and then I took her up to Chilmark one weekend to our summer house. My folks weren't using it and well, it always made a great impression on my women. So anyway I took her up there in order to ball her." 

"And you're in bed and find out she's cherry?" 

"Big time. She told me the reason she came up there with me was because...well because she sensed deep down I was a decent, kind, caring man who had been hurt very deeply. She said she knew I was very gentle really and...Shit Walter it was like she knew everything about me. We just sat naked on the bed for hours and finally I poured out everything to her. I ended up crying in her arms Walter. It was cleansing. It also made a big change in my life. I...found a different direction that night, I think. Ultimately it lead me to the X-Files. But in any event when we did make love it was a totally different experience then it would have been if we hadn't shared all our fears and desires." 

"So..." 

"So...the biggest thing I can tell you is to let Kim take the lead. I mean I just went completely passive and let Sarah do whatever she was comfortable with at first. I made it all about her needs and desires. And you know - that was a total turn on for me. She was very sensuous. She just didn't know it and she needed to find her way that was all. 

I mean sure she was afraid but we overcame that by just...well I went slow and made sure I didn't hurt her. If she said anything hurt I'd stop. And I won't lie - yeah - I hurt her a little. I mean Kim's going to tear. You might as well face up to it. Just take it slow and make sure she knows to tell you if she's having a problem." 

"Yeah, well - that makes sense." 

"Look, Walter. I made the whole thing as safe and comfortable as I could for Sarah. I think women need that atmosphere in order to attain sexual satisfaction anyway. They like to be on familiar or just safe feeling turf so to speak. And hell - they like foreplay - some more then others but you can't stint on it. Kimberly will appreciate it and so will you, believe me." 

Skinner sighed again, "Ok, I think I get the picture. Most of that is logical and I guess I pretty much knew it all anyway. But it's great to get the validation, the second opinion. I really appreciate it." 

Mulder took a sip of his beer, "Walter, I'm sure everything is going to be fine. Just make sure she feels safe and I know you'll make her feel loved. I think it'll work out." 

"Yeah, I think you're right Mulder. Thanks," Skinner nodded. He was mulling over everything Fox Mulder had said. A safe comfortable place? He was beginning to formulate a different plan for the honeymoon that he thought just might fit that bill to a tee. He smiled at the thought and looked over at Mulder, "Want another beer?" 

"No, I think I'm good to go. So, are you up to my couch again, Walter?" 

"Shit no. But I guess I'd better take you up on it. I don't want to drive. Besides you'll want the company with Scully doing the sleepover thing at Kim's right?" 

"Oh yeah, we can have our own little slumber party. I'll tell you the story about the hook - it'll scare the hell out of you." 

"Ok, but only if you let me tell you about Mary Worth..." 

"You know about Mary Worth?" 

"Hell, yeah. I got scared shitless over that story when I was a kid." 

Both men laughed in good humored camaraderie as they pulled money out of their wallets to settle the bill. 

Skinner was glad Mulder's apartment was within walking distance of both the bar and the gym. His car would be all right outside Mulder's place. He could crash on his couch and leave on Saturday morning in time to get the ball rolling on his change in plans for the honeymoon. The trip to Tahiti was going to be a surprise anyway. He might be able to get a refund on the tickets. But it didn't matter. The idea he had now was much more worthwhile anyway. 

"Smart move, Assistant Director Skinner. Now if you'll just watch my back..." Mulder grinned as he got up unsteadily. 

"As long as I don't have to watch your ass..." 

Mulder laughed as the two men headed to the door, "I'll bear that in mind when I drag my hung over butt to the can in the morning." 

"Bare? Please. Yeah - thank God for small favors," Skinner quipped.