TITLE:  Circles Unbroken: Journeys End in Lovers' Meetings
AUTHOR: Athos
EMAIL ADDRESS: athos_too@hotmail.com
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT: Please forward to Gossamer & ATXC.  OK to 
archive anywhere.
SPOILER WARNING: None
RATING: NC-17; Graphic sexual description;  
CATEGORY: SR - Story/Romance
KEYWORDS: Scully/Other/Romance; Scully/Slash; M/S friendship
SUMMARY:  Scully is reunited with her high school lover.

Disclaimers.  The characters of Dana Scully, Fox Mulder, Walter Skinner, 
and the rest of the Scully family are the property of Chris Carter, and 
are used without permission, borrowed really, for the purposes of this 
story.  No profit is being made by this use.

Rating: NC-17  for sexual content.  That's the rating it would have if 
it were a film.  This is a same sex romance describing relations between 
two consenting fictional adults.  If that's a problem for you, or if you 
are under 17, stop here.

Synopsis.  Scully is reunited with her first lover from her high school 
days.  The story takes place in flashbacks and the present.  It is 
essentially an upbeat love story, with little darkness and only light 
angst.  A few months ago I read what I think of as the Great Trinity of 
Scully/Slash, the three series _Joining the Ranks_, _The Road Not Taken 
_, and _Walking the Line_.  All are available on Gossamer.  I liked the 
genre, and was moved to make this humble contribution.  Part Two will 
follow shortly, maybe in A and B sections depending on length.  A second 
story in this universe is also being contemplated.

Circles Unbroken: Journeys End in Lovers' Meetings

Dana Scully blushed, feeling as red as her hair.  She had finally placed 
the identity of the attorney who had caught her eye in the courtroom 
this morning; the woman who had seemed unable to keep from looking at 
Dana.  In appearance, she had been unremarkable.  Mid to late thirties, 
medium height, black hair, standard counsel attire; yet there had been 
something about her that had latched onto Scully's memory and wouldn't 
let go.

And now she had it.  That woman was Lee Caldwell from Our Lady of Bliss 
high school in Annapolis.  That woman was Dana Scully's first lover.  
There was no doubt about it, this was not going to be a dull day.  

*Dana* she chided herself.  *I think you're overreacting, maybe just a 
little bit.  Oh yes?  Let's see, she was the first person, besides 
myself that is, who touched me, who loved me all the way.  The first 
person who did it more than once, the first person who said they loved 
me, and MEANT IT.*  

Scully shook her head *It's finally happened Dana Katherine, you have 
become an X-File.*  Sighing, she returned to her case file, staring 
blankly, while her mind's eyes filled with the images of her high school 
yearbook, senior year.

Good old LOB.  The traveling Scully show had arrived in Annapolis in 
September.  Dana was used to being orphaned and outcast in any school 
she arrived at, initially at least, and had developed a shell which let 
her get through most changes with minimal upset, on the surface anyway.  
After a while, her brains, quiet demeanor, and athletic ability would 
usually open a few doors.  And then it would be time to move again, 
usually.

She broke out of her reverie as the door opened.  "Agent Scully.  Agent 
Mulder."  It was very unusual for Assistant Director Skinner to appear 
in the basement lair of the X-Files division.  *He's wearing a top coat, 
he looks like an upholstered truck, he must be going out* Scully 
thought.  It was her concentration on the AD that allowed her mind to 
wander and she answered the phone on automatic pilot.

"Special Agent Dana Scully"

"Dana Scully.  Are you a turtle?"

"You bet your sweet ass I am!"  She said loudly into the silence left by 
Skinner and Mulder turning for her opinion.  Both men stared, Mulder 
grinned openly, Skinner's lips twitched and his eyes warmed slightly.

*If there is a God, kill me now* Scully thought.

"I knew it was you!" the phone exulted.  "Tooze, this is Lee Caldwell, 
one of your Blissful Lady pals from LOB.  Remember me?"  Overcome by the 
force of the memories and the sheer energy of the voice, Scully nodded 
numbly.  "We've got to get together today.  I'm real close to you, can 
we meet at the Traveler Grill after work?"  

*Damage control, must do damage control*  If it hadn't been for the 
circumstances, Scully might have made an excuse to avoid the engagement.  
With her mind on her crimson face wondering how she was going to get out 
of this situation she wanted to get off the phone as soon as possible.  
Agreeing was the easiest way out.

*Act like nothing's happened.  Denial.  Denial*  Scully focused her 
attention on her partner and the AD.  "Excuse me, I didn't catch what 
you said.." 

Skinner refocused and relayed his message.  Something about expense 
reports, and a meeting tomorrow to 'sort all this out, once and for 
all'.  Through the low-grade dressing down, Scully couldn't shake the 
feeling that the AD was holding in his mirth and going easy on the pair 
as a result of her exclamation.  Then the truck backed up and left.

"Ah, Scully," Mulder smirked.  "You never cease to amaze me.  Do I get 
an explanation for that little outburst, or do you dare trust it to my 
imagination?"  This last being delivered with an exaggerated leer.

"Stuff it, Mulder.  Sideways."  She grimaced and shook her head.  "Maybe 
later, if you're good.  Now let me die."  She turned to the paper work 
on her desk, while her mind wandered back 17 years.

The arrival at LOB had been one of the more successful transitions. She 
had landed among the jockette group and even picked up a new nickname; 
since there was already been a 'Red', Scully had become 'Tooze', short 
for Ruby Tuesday.  And on the soccer team, last year's powerful group of 
seniors had moved on, and the team needed talent.  When right wing Kathy 
Riley went down with an injury, it was up to the agile transfer student, 
Dana Scully, to get the ball to high scoring center Lee Caldwell.  And 
thus she had come under Lee's wing, protection, and sponsorship.  It had 
been unusual to make a friend and companion right away, someone to walk 
and talk with, and share the triumphs and miseries of high school. 

A song floated through her head.

O the summer time is comin,
and the leaves are sweetly turnin, 
and the wild mountain thyme,
blooms across the purple heather,
will you go, lassie, go......?

Heather.  Lee's older sister had marched to her own drummer.  Most 
unfashionably for the eighties, she had styled herself as folk singer, 
and made it work.  Often Lee and Scully would sit in the basement rec 
room, theoretically studying, and hear Heather's pure soprano doing the 
Joan Baez thing.  Dana remembered that one because it had been raining 
outside, and cold in the basement, and both she and Lee were down with 
the sadness of the untried young.

Will you go, Lassie, go?

Lee had put her arm across Dana's shoulders.  From the commanding height 
of 5' 5" she could do this.  The contact was unfamiliar to Scully, she 
hadn't had many opportunities for physical contact with peers.  Aside 
from the odd foot to the shin of course.  She had snuggled against her 
friend, who had turned, lowered her head, and kissed her hair and cheek.  
When Scully hadn't resisted, or moved away, the lips had moved to her 
mouth, and kissed again...

And now Agent Dana Scully could feel the flush rising in her cheeks 
again, and even a trace of the excitement and wonder that had rushed 
through her on that long ago night.  Without looking up, her Mulder 
sense kicked in and she knew she was being watched, and maybe, God 
forbid, being analyzed...

"We are pleased with your conduct, Agent Mulder," she said, "and it 
further pleases us to enlighten you."  Scully paused.  "With a totally 
innocent explanation, I might add."

"Oh, Scully.  The royal 'we'.  So masterful.  Pray continue."

Scully grinned, relaxing into the banter.  *I've got him.  Gonna get 
away with this.*

"You know that lady lawyer who seemed to be checking us out in court 
this morning?  Brace yourself, big guy, but she wasn't looking at you.  
She's an old friend from my last high school.."

Mulder interrupted.  "And that's how you greet your old friends?  Remind 
me to be nicer to you..."

"Cute.  No, that wasn't a greeting, but a response.  You see at Our Lady 
of Bliss high school, the big thing was to become a turtle.  There was 
only one requirement; if anyone asked if you were a turtle, then you had 
to respond, loudly, 'YOU BET YOUR SWEET ASS I AM!'  Of course the whole 
point was to trap your fellow turtles in embarrassing situations, like 
talking over the pa system or with the Mother Superior."  Scully 
saluted.  "So you see Mulder, I remain a turtle in good standing.  And 
before you ask, I hereby deny you turtlehood, so don't expect to pull 
that on me like Lee did."

"Lee, huh?  She was kind of cute, in a mature way of course.  You going 
to see her?  Take me along?"

*Kind of cute, Foxy my boy you don't know the half of it.  And I'm going 
to make sure it stays that way...*  Aloud she said "Lee has too much 
personality for you Mulder; one of those fill the room types, or at 
least she used to be.  Better let me go first and see that it's safe."  
She flashed a smile.  "I suppose she's gotten old slow and mellow like 
the rest of us.  And now that I have enlightened you, be a good little 
agent and work on the expense report, so we can survive tomorrow's 
meeting."  She glanced at the clock and returned to her work.

*Damn.  I am SO good.  One case report, done and done.*  Turning her 
head she noted with pleasure that Mulder was engrossed in the expense 
report, his fingers flying over the calculator.  *A small break then, 
Dana, I think you've earned it..*

And the leaves are sweetly turnin... 

Scully returned to the basement with Lee's arms around her, and the 
sound of cars splashing through the rain outside.  She hadn't remained 
passive, but had joined her teammate giving and receiving kisses, not 
talking much.  They had only kissed that first night, kissed, then after 
the rain walked through the still wet streets.  She could see Lee's 
sharp profile again, hear her voice speaking into the damp air.

"Tooze, what are you thinking?"

"I don't know.  I'm thinking that I'm glad I'm me, glad I'm here.  But 
I'm wondering what's going on too.  What about you?"

"I am thinking that our beloved Coach, Sister Michael Bernadette, would 
be SOOO pleased at the teamwork we were showing back there in the 
basement.  The blue eyes sparkled with glee "'become one with your 
teammates girls, know where those passes are going without thinking, and 
get there'..."  She turned to Scully; "Or do you think she was talking 
about soccer again?  She do go on about that.."

Despite her more serious nature, Dana couldn't help but smile.  "I think 
she was talking about the soccer, Lee.  Sorry."

"Damn.  I was just getting those passes down too."  Lee turned serious.  
"Dana, did you ever do that before, kiss a girl I mean?"

Scully blushed.  "No.  I've never even thought about it.  Haven't kissed 
too many boys either."

"I've never kissed a girl, or I guess I should say woman, before 
tonight."  Lee had smiled but her eyes were serious.  "And if you 
remember that little sermon in the 'pre marriage' class we were just 
blessed with, I think you and I are headed for the deepest part of the 
pit." She pulled Dana's hand, stopped in a shadow.  "No one can see us 
here; do you want to try again?"

There had been no question of doing otherwise, even though a choice had 
been given.  Scully was pulled into the stronger arms and kissed 
thoroughly.  Her mouth had opened and she had been full of the sensation 
of Lee.  The second time, kissing outdoors, seemed to seal something.  
Both had known the line of friendship had been crossed, and that love 
had waited on the other side.

And now, Special Agent Dana Scully smiled at the sweetness of the 
memory.  *They say you never forget your first love, first kiss.*  
Suddenly she thought of the after work drink, now only an hour or so 
away.  *My God!  I haven't seen her since we left that April.  What if 
.... Whoa! Don't go there, Dana. You're an adult; she's an adult; you 
didn't turn out gay, she's probably not either.  Probably married with 
1.75 kids.*  She picked up the next case report.


****


The Traveler Grill was aptly named.  It could have been anywhere.  
Anywhere, that is where the crowd was mostly yuppies and reasonably well 
heeled.  Scully didn't come here much, but she knew that other Hoover 
Building workers did.  Somehow she found the very blandness comforting.

"Dana, over here!"

Scully flashed a smile in the direction of the voice and there she was, 
again in the company of Leonora Margaret Caldwell after seventeen years.   
"You look magnificent.  Like you could step into cleats and go the whole 
game."  Lee glanced at Scully's pumps.  "Some things have changed, I 
see."

"You're looking really good yourself, Lee."
"You really think so?  Not bad for an old lady, huh?"

*Not bad, indeed..*  On closer examination, Dana noted that Lee's black 
hair had been improved with auburn highlights; she looked about 15 
pounds heavier than high school and her skin glowed with health.  Aloud 
Scully said, "You are a credit to Our Lady of Bliss.  Tell me, is it 
years of clean living?"

Lee laughed.  "Not hardly.  But sit down Tooze, we have a lot of 
catching up to do."  She turned to the wine bucket standing by her 
chair, pulled out a bottle of Cordon Negro champagne, and said "Journeys 
end in lovers' meetings.  Want some bubbly?"

*Oh Lord, tell me I didn't hear that!  What does she expect of me?*

"Dana, Dana, Dana!  If you could see your face!  Relax, I won't bite 
you, it's just an expression."  Lee's shoulders shook with suppressed 
laughter.  Scully flushed lightly, then relaxed and joined in the mirth.  
Suddenly it was as if they were seventeen again, without a care in the 
world.  *It's amazing how with some people you can be separated for 
years, then reunite and not miss a beat,* Scully thought.

One bottle later, they had caught up on the big basics of the ensuing 
years.  Ahab's and Melissa's deaths.  The lump in Heather's breast.  
Scully's career path, and were just beginning on Lee's marriage and 
divorce.

"So, who was the guy, and was he lucky or unlucky?"

"Definitely lucky.  Lucky I didn't kill him, or at least do a Lorena 
Bobbitt."  Lee replied.  "His name was Kevin O'Brian.  Linebacker.  We 
met when I was at Notre Dame, and married senior year.  Wasn't bad for 
the first few years, but he never got over not making the NFL.  Started 
to try to establish his dominance at home."  She shook her head.  "Love, 
honor and obey.  Do you believe it Dana, there are still people out 
there who take all those words literally?  That SOB sure did.  And when 
he didn't get it, he started getting physical.  I put up with that too 
long, then took off.  Ended up in California.  He ended up dead.  
Driving drunk, fell asleep, did some bridgework.  They say he was coming 
to California.  He hadn't had a gun when I left him, but there was one 
in the car.  Can't be sure of course, but I think I might have dodged a 
bullet on that one, literally."

Scully nodded in sympathy.  "I wouldn't be at all surprised Lee.  I 
don't handle much stuff like that for the Bureau, but the statistics 
show mates and lovers tend to kill each other a lot more than strangers 
do."  She touched Lee's hand; "I'm sorry you had such a tough time."

"Oh it got better from there.  I got some insurance money, and used it 
to help put myself through law school.  Did some public service work in 
San Francisco, then felt the call of home."  She shrugged.  "Most would 
say I'm nuts to leave the golden west for this place.  But I guess I am.  
It's good to be back."
"It's good to see you," Scully smiled.  *It's true.  It is good to see 
her, politeness aside.  Dana, you need a friend. You DO need to get out 
more.  You need to stop being a nun in Mulder's convent of the weird.*   

In response to Lee's pause that said, 'your turn' Scully replied "My 
relationships have been less complicated, less dramatic, but no more 
fruitful I'm afraid."  She remembered Jack Willis.  "I had a three year 
affair with a fellow agent, a former instructor, I must have been out of 
my mind."  She shrugged.  "Young and stupid I guess.  Anyway, the first 
six months were great, the second six good, and two years of ok on a 
good day staying together by habit.  Then it ended, and he was killed 
not long after.  Since then a few odd flings, but nothing."

Lee nodded and smiled.  "Maybe the nuns taught us better than we knew; 
couple of celibates in training."

Scully laughed.  "Lee Caldwell, I have a great deal of difficulty 
picturing YOU cloistered."  She glanced at her watch.  "Damn.  I've got 
to run.  Lee, I've really enjoyed tonight.  I'll call you tomorrow, Ok?  
I hope we can see each other again soon."

"Me too, Tooze. This was great."  Lee stood too and they embraced in 
parting.   "Maybe we can run or workout or something.  And Dana?  Be 
true to our Alma Mater; Stay blissful." 


****


The attractive redhead in the white terry bathrobe could have been any 
woman with a meditative bent, any woman who enjoyed hot baths with 
candlelight and background music.  Any woman, that is, who brought a 
fully loaded Sig Sauer and cell phone into 'her space' with her and had 
every room of her apartment monitored by motion sensors, a birthday 
present from the Lone Gunmen.  Scully had seen no reason to deny herself 
the pleasures of luxurious bathing, but given her recent experiences 
felt a little extra caution could do no harm.

If she thought of those things now though, it was only in the not 
thinking of them; she was secure here and could let her mind relax and 
wander.  Scully peeled off the robe and hung it, stepped into the 
steaming water, leaned back and let it rise over her breasts.  Not only 
had it not been a dull day, it had been a good one; she smiled and 
closed her eyes.

Meeting Lee again had been fun.  Scully's mind drifted to back to the 
day after they had first kissed, back when they were 17..

the wild mountain thyme....

It had been a Friday, and the Caldwells were to be out of town.  Lee had 
convinced her parents that she and her friend Dana would be fine alone 
together.  Mrs. Caldwell in particular respected the level headed 
Scully, and endorsed the decision that Lee and Dana could house sit that 
weekend.

For Scully, nothing seemed to have changed.  The girls flopped on the 
rec room floor together, lying on a thick blanket with their backs 
against the couch.  Popcorn with too much butter was in a large bowl 
between them, and Friday Monster Movie was just coming on.  'And tonight 
we feature _The Thing_ starring James Arness...'

"O good!" said Lee.  "This one's a family favorite.  My Dad gets a big 
kick out of Sheriff Matt Dillon playing a pissed off six foot carrot."

"You're kidding!"

"No, it is the sheriff from _Gunsmoke_, on the reruns.  But he's not 
really a carrot, just a vegetable guy who wants to take over Earth.."

"Quiet, chatterbox.  We must watch this classic."

They hadn't touched or followed up on last night's kisses, the popcorn 
bowl providing a barrier that seemed uncrossable.

The movie ended melodramatically.  'They're out there.  Somewhere.  Keep 
watching the skies..'  Scully had moved the empty bowl and slid next to 
Lee.  They lay like that a few moments, talking of nothing, then Lee had 
gently taken Scully's head and kissed her.  Things had progressed nicely 
from there.  Together they had explored breasts through tee shirts, then 
without them.  Lee had lowered her mouth to Dana's breasts, while 
running her hands into the redhead's jeans.  They had stopped to lose 
their denims, some mutual modesty moving them to leave their panties on.  
It hadn't mattered.  The thin fabric and loose waistbands were no 
impediment as they moved breasts to breasts, hand to pussy, thigh to 
vulva.  Lee had stopped briefly to drag an electric heater over and turn 
it on, warming their near nakedness.  Scully had rolled on top of the 
bigger girl, kissing her neck, ears, cheeks breasts open mouth.   Later, 
upstairs in Lee's room, falling  asleep in each other's arms, Lee had 
whispered "I don't think we have to worry about being sacrificed to 
dragons anymore.." and kissed her.

Back in the present, Scully was flushed by more than the heat of the 
water.  Her left hand found her breasts, while her right moved between 
her legs, slowly at first, then faster, till she leaned back, released. 
*Yes, definitely a very good day.. really should get out more...* 


* * *


*I guess I should say OMMMMM now, but screw it.  I'm just done.*  Lee 
Caldwell smiled at the thought as she folded her exercise mat.  One 
thing her sojourn on the left coast had taught her was the value of 
relaxation before bedtime.  Sometimes, like tonight, she did yoga.  
Sometimes she did martial arts kata. And sometimes she said to hell with 
it and watched banal tv.  Didn't seem to really matter, just so she 
relaxed some before bed.

*I have this really good role model too,* she thought as she looked at 
the silver gray tiger cat curled in a ball.  *If it turns out 
reincarnation is it, then coming back as a cat in a -good- home would be 
the way to do it.*  "Come on Alexander" she called.  "Bedtime.  You get 
to move from the couch to the bed..."  When the cat didn't stir she 
picked up the striped ball and carried him with her to the bedroom.  
"Sorry.  Silly of me.  Why should you get up, when I am here to serve 
you..."

As was her custom, Lee read for a bit, then dropped off to sleep 
immediately.  When there had been bedmates in the equation, particularly 
long term ones, she was wont to comment on 'clean consciences allowing 
for easy sleeping'.

She awoke in the night, lying on her stomach.  The dream had been very 
vivid, involving kisses and touches, probably brought on by the 
champagne and her reunion with Dana Scully.  *Damn!  I hate those dreams 
where you wake up before the good part!  Somethings you can't trust your 
subconscious to handle, I guess.*  She grinned wryly to herself in the 
darkness.  Again she thought of Dana.  *Heather and that damn song.  I 
remember she was singing it that Thursday night we kissed for the first 
time; and then Friday...*

That long ago Friday had been weird.  Usually after practice, and 
especially on Fridays, everyone joked and fooled around anticipating the 
weekend.  Horseplay in the showers was common.  Usually Lee was in thick 
of it.  But that Friday had been different.  Nothing had changed with 
her teammates, but somehow being naked with Dana, her best friend, had 
seemed out of synch, like it was not the right time or place.  She had 
looked across the locker room, saw Dana shrugging and climbing into the 
sensible undergarments favored by lady lobbers.  She had wondered if 
that night, that weekend, would be the right time or place...  

Then Lee's memory fast forwarded a few hours.  The movie had ended, and 
Dana had been peeling off her jeans.  Gone were the sensible cotton 
panties.  In their place was midnight blue silk, of a very rakish cut.  
*She's dressed up for me.  Oh God!*  And then they had fallen together 
in a collage of kisses, touches, and hugs.


****


Now the 1998 Lee moved a hand down her belly to finish what the dreams 
had started and the memories continued.  Sated, she wondered *Does Dana 
still go that way too?  Would she want to?*  A sigh echoed in the 
darkness.  *We had a good time tonight; let's leave it at that.  And if 
something happens later on, then it happens.*    She grabbed Alexander, 
stuffed him under the covers, curled around him and fell asleep.


****


"Morning has broken, like the first morning, blackbird has spoken, like 
the first bird," Scully sang softly.

Mulder looked up.  "Scully, must you be so blessed cheerful this 
morning?  What's gotten into you anyway?  Change your brand of coffee?"

"Grouch.  I just had a good time last night, that's all.  So don't 
attribute my cheerfulness to unnatural chemical stimulants and mood 
altering drugs."  She rose to her full height, "_I_ am high on life..." 
she teased.

"Spare me.  And while you're up, could you get me some more unnatural 
chemical stimulant?"  Mulder grinned inwardly.  It was nice to see 
Scully so cheerful and upbeat.  Rare too.  He didn't see a lot of that 
in his own life, and it cheered him when those few he cared about were 
happy. 

The life giving elixir dispensed, the agents buckled down on their final 
review of the dreaded expense report.  Despite Mulder's protests, Scully 
wanted to go over his afternoon's labor.  "Sorry Mulder, but it's not 
just your butt on the line here.  I have a share in this too."

"Gee Scully, may our butts always be together on the great spreadsheet 
of life.."  Mulder stopped and grinned roguishly; "Can you think of any 
other places we could put them together?"

"In your dreams, Mulder, in your dreams.  Now come on, might as well get 
this over with."


****


Contrary to Scully's fears, the expense review had gone well.  Like so 
many great hurdles, the anticipation of the Assistant Director's 
inquisition had been worse than the actual event.  A few questions, a 
carefully crafted explanation that covered the bases in a logical way, 
with a spin the Bureau could accept, and they were home free.  On the 
way back to their cellarage, Mulder spoke.

"Now you've got two things to be happy about.  Your last night's 
frivolities and the fact that you've passed another expense review 
without being indicted.  What did you do, anyway?"

"Oh, not much.  Just brought each other up to date over a bottle of 
champagne."  Scully entered their office at his gesture, and sat at her 
desk.  Turning to Mulder she added "Lee and I were really close in high 
school, but after we left Annapolis that time, we only did a few letters 
till we were both in college.  Then I guess we just drifted apart.  But 
despite all that, last night I felt like I was with a friend I had never 
left for long.  So, since we still seem to be able to tolerate each 
other's company  *to put it very mildly...*  I'm supposed to call her 
today."  Scully shook her head.  "I'm frightened Mulder.  One of us may 
be getting a life."


****


The late afternoon sun turned the highlights in Lee's dark hair into the 
shade Scully wore all the time.  It glistened on the muscular butt and 
legs  that stretched skyward, encased in black spandex with fuchsia 
highlights.  She turned to the similarly postured Dana Scully and said, 
"You know, Tooze.  I think the reason people like to run is that it 
offers so many opportunities for outrageous behavior.  Take us right now 
for example.  Skimpy clothes that could be applied with a paint brush, 
in poses not usually seen in polite society.  It's only these running 
shoes that keep us from being arrested."  She smiled.  "Of course the 
cops would have to catch us first.."

"The way you look in those things would give them incentive anyway."

"You don't look bad yourself, kid.  I think for a couple of early middle 
aged yuppies, we are both holding up quite well."  They got to their 
feet and moved off down the path, running at an easy conversational 
pace.

"I have a friend at Zog, excuse me," Lee primed her mouth and with 
exaggerated formality said "Zogby, McAlpine, and Smith, PC, Attorneys at 
Law, who says the reason he runs is that he gets to wear those black 
tights with the flaming orange stripes.  Says he likes the way they feel 
on his legs, and it's the only chance he gets to wear em."  She grinned 
and added, "we are so lucky Dana.  We get to wear panty hose every day!"

During the run Scully had given Lee her first lessons in X-Files 101, 
the introduction which left out the frustration and sidestepped the 
danger.  Lee had described her work with Z, McA and S as "basic lawyer 
stuff; keeps the wolf from the door, and lets me indulge my whims and 
fetishes."

"And what are some of those whims, Lee?"

The attorney pointed down a side street.  "My place isn't too far from 
here.  Let's finish up there and I'll show you one."


****


Lee's apartment was tasteful, sparely decorated in urban single modern, 
and unremarkable otherwise.  A computer work desk was in one corner of 
the large main room.  After insisting that Scully take a large glass of 
juice and getting one for herself, Lee led the way to the desk with the 
invitation, "Come see my new toy."

Invisible at first glance had been the closed black laptop.  Lee flipped 
it open and powered it up, then brought up Netscape.  "You've got to 
promise not to think less of me, Dana, before I show you this."

"I promise."  Despite herself, as Lee's light tone belied the mystery of 
her words, Scully swallowed..  *Get a grip, Dana Katherine!  What do you 
think, we're surfing to www.seducingoldgirlfriends.com?*

Lee's fingers flew over the keyboard and the site opened.  www.vw.com.  
The mouse clicked and the new Volkswagen Beetle page emerged.  "This 
kills me," Lee said.  "Watch."  There was the familiar, yet different 
silhouette of a VW Beetle.  As the women looked on, one car drove off 
and another of a different color moved on.  "You play.  I've gotta pee."  
Lee left the room and Scully's thoughts drifted back to a rainy 
afternoon in an older beetle, 17 years ago.

It had been a sad day, they had just shared the news that Scully would 
be leaving next month, taking their love with her.  Lee had driven to a 
secluded spot in the park and pulled in.  She had kissed Scully 
fiercely;  "I'll make sure you never forget me!"

Dana's seat had gone back, and her school uniform jumper pushed above 
her waist; her panties were on the floor and her knee socked legs were 
over Lee's shoulders to the dashboard.  Lee had attacked her pussy; at 
one moment an open mouth was sucking her clit, the next a stiffened 
tongue was probing and licking her channel.  Meanwhile strong hands were 
working on Scully's thighs and bottom.  Normally Lee had been a gentle 
lover; not that day.  The fingers slipped roughly inside, and the dark 
head between the redhead's legs redoubled its efforts.  Scully was going 
mad with desire and emotion; she looked out the window, and saw through 
the beaded raindrops a police cruiser going by, slowing as if stopping, 
then suddenly accelerating away.  She screamed and closed her legs 
around Lee's head; augmented by the fear / adrenaline rush and the 
emotions between the two young lovers, her orgasm had been shattering, 
never to be forgotten...

Scully heard the toilet flush.  *Come back from dreamland, Dana... Damn, 
that was one of the top ten lifetime though,* she thought wryly.

"What do you think?"  Lee returned with a smile in her voice.

"Very nice, but how could this make me think less of you?"  Scully 
looked at her friend.  "Are you planning on joining the American Nazi 
Party too?" 

"No.  But I am infatuated with the idea of owning one of those new 
Beetles.  I know it's rash to buy a brand new model car, and I know I 
could get a better deal on any car that's been out for a while.  But...I 
want one."

"That's true about the deal.  People are going to be standing in line 
for these, at first anyway.  You'd be lucky to find one at the list 
price, let alone getting anything off."  Scully stopped and thought a 
moment.  "Still, I think you should get one if you want it.  Goodness 
knows the world is full of uncertainty; you can afford it, so why wait?"

"Instant gratification, I like that; a woman after my own heart.  And 
don't worry, Dana.  I am still the practical girl the Sisters raised.  I 
do have an in with the sales manager at the dealership.  I did some pro 
bono work for her daughter when I came back, and she owes me."  She 
looked at Scully innocently.  "This is DC, remember, and backroom deals 
are a necessary part of the community.  You don't have to arrest me do 
you?"

"We'll make an exception in this case.  Janet Reno has given me a lot of 
latitude in this area."

"Good.  I've gotten used to freedom.  Want some more juice?"  

"Did you get a chance to look at the website much?"  Lee asked as they 
returned from the kitchen.

"No, I was woolgathering I'm afraid."  *Please don't ask about what...*

"C'mere then.  Look.  You can configure your own car, choose the colors, 
the options, and it changes on the screen.  There.  Lee Caldwell's 
personal   Beetle."  With an impish smile she added, "And you know what 
Dana?  The dealership says they'll have one for me to drive this 
weekend.  Want to come along?"

"Sure."


****


The clock radio came on with merciless cheer.  *It's Saturday.  What did 
I set that damn alarm for?* Lee asked herself.  The sleeping Alexander 
provided no answer.  *O yeah.  The car.  And Dana's coming over.  Well 
maybe just a few more minutes of sack time then.*  

In that wonderful drowsy state where you know you don't have to jump out 
of bed immediately, but can be lazy a few more minutes, Lee remembered 
waking up with Dana Scully after their first night together.

She had awoken slowly, conscious of arms around her waist and something, 
were they lips?, between her shoulder blades.   As awareness increased 
her first thought was panic.  Who?  What?  The lips kissed, the arms 
tightened, and a belly moved against her bottom, legs entangled with 
hers.  Dana, it was Dana, came the flash of joy.  Lee relaxed and 
settled into the embrace.  After a few warm moments she had rolled over 
to face the smaller girl.

"Good morning," she whispered, blushing.  

Scully kissed the top of the hollow between Lee's breasts.  "Good 
morning to you too."

"I don't believe this.  After last night, I feel like the world should 
have changed somehow.  Yet here it is the same, I'm still Lee, you're 
still Tooze, but you know what?"  Lee pulled back to give Scully 
breathing thinking and speaking room.  "I am so happy!"  She dropped her 
hands to Scully's ass and pulled her close.  "What about you?"

Scully moved her head back so she could gaze into the brunette's eyes; 
"the same," she replied steadily.  Then a wicked smile spread over her 
face.  "What was it in English class the other day? _For Whom the Bell 
Tolls_ and did the earth move for you Little Rabbit?  The earth looks 
the same to you because it's not moving."  She dropped her hand between 
Lee's legs and cupped her.  "Let's see if we can change that..."

A quick flash of pain returned her to the present.  Alexander had an 
effective way of making his feelings known, and now he obviously felt 
that his personal space was threatened.  *Come on old girl, that's 
enough anyway.  The object of your affections is coming over and you 
need to be ready.*  Lee rose from the blankets and froze as the full 
meaning of her thoughts struck home.  *Is that what you REALLY want from 
Dana?  That she be more than a bachelor girl buddy?*  She pulled on her 
robe and started the coffee; *My friend, I think you need to be clear 
about where you are going, and where you want to go.*


****  


*I could get used to this,* Scully thought.  She jammed the beetle's 
shifter up into third and exulted as the small car accelerated through 
the curves on the twisting park road.

"Way to go, Mario!"  Lee spoke loudly over the road noise, the engine, 
and the stereo.  "Dana, I didn't think you had it in you.  Does this 
come from all the road pursuit training or what?"

Scully shifted back into fourth and fifth, letting the car cruise.  
"Frustrated gran prix driver I guess.  Did I tell you about the sports 
car I used to have?  This reminds me of it; small, nimble and quick."

"And that reminds ME of you Tooze, the way you used to be on the soccer 
field, getting the ball to me.  And now here you are again, setting me 
up.  What do you think?  Should I take a shot at this car?"

"Hell, yes.  Lee, this is a no brainer.  You can't lose with this car.  
And besides, it's red."  Scully grinned.  "All the really hot things 
are.."  *And why did you say THAT?* she asked herself.

If Lee noticed the last statement, she didn't show it.  "Good enough.  I 
love it too.  The bud vase, the stereo, the whole look of the thing.  
Let's go tell em they just sold a car."  She paused, "of course it'll 
take a while for them to install the ejection seat and the machine guns, 
but I can wait for the really important things."

"Whatever you say, 007.."  Scully pulled over.  "Here, you take her back 
to the dealer's.  And when we get there, I'll let my blazer fall open 
just a bit, so they'll know we can't be trifled with."

"Umm.. Dana.. you're not that busty."  Lee paused for maximum effect 
then added, "oh, you mean your gun.  Hey.  Works for me; if you've got 
it, flaunt it I always say."

"Careful Counselor.  That's guaranteed to piss off a G Woman, and we can 
get downright testy when we're crossed."

"OK Babe.  I plead Newcarus Majorpurchasus Giddyitus.  Let's go 
consummate this deal."

		
* * *


The 747 began its descent towards Washington.  Scully leaned back in her 
seat with a sigh of relief.  *These road trips are starting to get 
old... a cab and a hot bathtub, that's what I need...*

Mulder turned at her sigh.  "Well Partner, another one wrapped up for 
the family album.  Think the taxpayers got their money's worth out of 
that little jaunt?"

"Depends on how you measure it.  Certainly got their pound of flesh out 
of this half of the Dynamic Duo."

"Batgirl!  Are you injured?"

"Just from restraining my mirth."

It had not been one of Mulder's tilting at paranormal windmill quests, 
which was a pity.  At least they weren't dull.  This one had required a 
forensic pathologist, and since violent crime was involved also, the 
powers that be, in their infinite wisdom, had assigned the X-Files team.  
Scully had cut and pondered, Mulder reviewed and analyzed, and both had 
been in on the capture.  
But as her partner would say, 'nothing to write home about.'

*There's one laddie who won't be practicing his carving skills for a 
while, I should feel good about that at least.,* Scully thought.

"So Scully, long weekend coming up and we're actually home to enjoy it.  
Got any plans?"

"Remember my friend Lee that resurfaced a few weeks ago?  We're going to 
run down to the Outer Banks in her new VW."  Scully grinned at her 
partner.  "I will say this for you, Batman; you can sure clear up a case 
in a hurry when you want to get it over with; for a while I was afraid 
we wouldn't make it back before Friday.  So that's what I'm doing.  What 
about you?"

"The usual.  Play a little ball, watch a little ball.  The Knicks are in 
town, maybe catch that.  Organize my video collection, contemplate 
life."  Mulder sighed theatrically.  "What else can I do?  Since my 
partner doesn't see fit to include me in her good times, I have no 
choice.."  He favored Scully with his very best hurt puppydog look.

"Stop, please, Mulder, you're breaking my heart and you know what our 
HMO is like..."

And the plane touched down.


****


"We're sure attracting a lot of attention Tooze.  Some would say it's 
the car, but my personal opinion is these tarheels find the two hot 
babes in it irresistible."

"Is that what's called a commanding presence in the courtroom, Lee?  Or 
are you practicing to lead a self esteem seminar for our alumni 
association?"

"Are you trying to prove that geography influences peoples behavior?"  
Lee smiled, "we did just pass through Nags Head North Carolina you 
know."

"OK, you win.  Have you ever been down here before?  This looks a lot 
less built up then I expected."

"We've left the commercial stuff behind.  Ahead lies beach, and a ferry, 
and our destination, Okracoke Island.  It's almost all national 
seashore.  Miles of beach and nothing to do but walk it, and just soak 
up that feeling that it's just you, and your companion, and the ocean.  
I think you'll like it."

"Sounds wonderful," Scully replied.  "I do already."


**** 


The ocean breeze, biting yet invigorating, brought Scully to a 
decision.  She had been doing a lot of thinking since the reunion with 
Lee, and taking many walks down memory lane.  What had surprised her the 
most was how much she had enjoyed those walks. *Ok, let's see where she 
wants to go with this, if anywhere*
and she reached over and picked up Lee's hand. 

"Dana, what is it?"  Lee stopped walking and looked at the small hand 
holding hers.  "What do you want?"

"I think I know what I want, Lee.  I know what I want to try, anyway.  
So the question is really, 'what do you want of me?  A friend, or 
something more?'"  Scully's eyes met the taller woman's.  "We've been 
together a lot these last few weeks, but we haven't said a thing about 
what we were to each other once.  I know I've been thinking about it.  
Have you?"

"Yes.  I've been wondering if you'd moved on from that, or if you 
still felt anywhere near the same."  Lee stopped, and turned to the sea.  
"I mean, an FBI agent, I just figured that you were straight as an arrow 
now, that you would deny that we ever WERE lovers."

"I think you're underestimating me.  I admit, I was nervous, very 
nervous, when we met at the Traveler.  But that was good, and hanging 
with you has been good, and... I think I'm willing to try for more..."

Lee laughed nervously.  "Dana, are you saying that you want to pick up 
where we left off back in high school?"

"Maybe not all the way back to square one." Scully smiled. "Don't let 
that beetle give you ideas.  I'm not sure I'm as limber as I used to be, 
not to mention your flexibility.."  She paused, picked up Lee's other 
hand, then continued.  "Yes, that is what I'm saying."  

Two pairs of blue eyes locked together; they stepped closer, still 
holding hands, bringing their heads together till their lips met.  It 
was a gentle kiss, no grasping of heads and trying to overpower the 
other.  Gentle, and sweet.   *Dana, you are really running the gamut 
since you met this woman; gone from X-File to Cliche, as we kiss 
tenderly by the shore..* Scully stepped back, giggled, then laughed.

"Dana!  Are you hysterical or what?  I know my technique might need 
work, but I don't think it's laughable!"

"I'm sorry!  I was thinking about us by the sea, then those shots in 
_From Here to Eternity_ where instead of showing them making love on the 
beach, they show the surf breaking.  And then the spoof of that in  
_Airplane_."  Scully gasped and regained control.  "I'm sorry........, 
lover...  I know what I want now, but I can wait a few more minutes.  
Maturity does have some advantages."

"Well, when you get mature, let me know."  Lee smiled.  "Walk with me 
now, and let's see how long we can keep walking away from our room.  
Abstinence makes the heart grow fonder, you know."

"All right, but kiss me again first, please."  Scully stepped into Lee's 
embrace.


****


*I know what's going to happen, and I'm a big girl now, but that doesn't 
matter.  I'm STILL nervous as a cat...,*  Lee sighed as they reentered 
their hotel room, a room that suddenly seemed to be nothing but beds.

"I know.  Me too."  Scully said softly.  "But I have a cure.  One of Dr. 
Dana's backrubs."

"OK."  Lee stretched out on one of the beds.

"Leonora Margaret Caldwell!  What are you doing?"  It was the voice of 
authority.

Lee was surprised by the tone.  Looking over her shoulder she saw it 
modified by Scully's smile.  "I believe someone mentioned a backrub...?"

"That's right.  And we're going to do it right too.  So that means the 
floor.  I don't have the muscle to massage you and the mattress too.  
So... if madame will remove her sweatshirt and lie down here, we will 
begin."  As she spoke, Scully pulled a blanket from the other bed, 
folded it, and lay it on the floor.

Lee complied, pulling the Georgetown bulldog over her head.  "This too?" 
She unhooked her bra at Scully's nod, then stretched out face down on 
the blanket.

"Never on the floor, before, huh?  You've got to do it this way, 
otherwise you just sink away from me and miss the full effect; and I 
take pride in my work you know."  Scully suited her actions to the 
words, as she sat straddling Lee's legs, kneading her shoulders and neck 
for some moments.  

"Damn.  This won't work for the lower back.  Your jeans are too high 
waisted."

"I can take a hint..."  Lee rolled out from under Scully over to her 
back; she unbuttoned the offending jeans, slid them down and off. Her 
hands returned to the waistband of her panties, hesitated, and pulled 
them off.  She looked at Dana and smiled.  "Guess I'll show some 
leadership here," she joked as she rolled back over on her stomach.

*Beautiful, just beautiful* Scully thought as she returned to her 
position atop Lee, very aware of the warmth and softness of the buttocks 
between her knees.  She started below the shoulder blades and kneaded 
the muscles of the back, moving her hands firmly to the sides and over 
Lee's bottom.  *Nothing between the legs, yet, tempting though it may 
be.  Stay professional here Dana Katherine.  For a few minutes more, 
anyway...*

"MMMMMMM...  Do you think you could do that all day?"  Lee arched her 
butt against Scully's crotch, loving the denim's roughness against her 
skin.  

*If she does that again I just might lose it... I think I'd better 
finish this, cuz I think I know where we're going from here...*  Scully 
returned briefly to Lee's shoulders, then she ran her fingertips, 
pressing hard, down either side of Lee's spine, eliciting moans of 
pleasure from the brunette.  "That's it.  All done.  Feel better?"  Dana 
finished with a kiss at the base of Lee's neck.

"Much better, thanks.  And may I return the favor?"  Lee rolled over 
between Scully's thighs and reached up for her.

Scully's breath caught in her throat and she whispered "It would be my 
pleasure."  She was pulled down gently, her hands moving automatically 
to Lee's breasts, then stroking her sides, while the woman beneath her 
nibbled at full red lips, then ran her tongue over them.  Scully opened 
her mouth, and their tongues met.  
*lordy lordy ..., coming home after a long time gone, she thought.* 

Lee released her mouth.  "Dana?  It's been a while, but I do think 
you're a little overdressed for this occasion.  And there is a bed right 
there."  She paused and added with a smile, "unless you want the floor 
for old times' sake."

Scully returned the smile.  "I believe I'll choose comfort over memory 
in this case."  She pulled off her shirt, then turned her back to Lee.  
"Unhook me?"

Then Scully's jeans and pants were on the floor and they were in the 
bed, wrapped together, arms and legs, hands and backs, pushing strongly, 
then stroking gently, then returning to an urgency that consumed them 
both.  Scully's small strong hands ran from Lee's breasts to the flare 
of her hips, and back again, while her mouth moved from the small dark 
nipples and the cleft between breasts.  Meanwhile, her own breasts were 
burning at each touch of Lee's body.  She felt Lee's hands roaming her 
back, up and down, squeezing her buttocks and moving back to the bone 
and muscle of her ribs *it's been so long and this seems so incredibly 
right... *

Lee maneuvered Scully onto her side and moved in behind her, so their 
bodies touched along their length.  She kissed and nipped at Scully's 
shoulders and neck while running her hands from the redhead's breasts to 
the warm wet center between her legs.  Then the hands found what they 
sought and stayed; Lee pushed against Scully hard, still kissing.  
*Shooting stars in the late afternoon!  How unusual!*  Dana thought as 
she moaned, gasped, and  climaxed, then returned to earth and the strong 
shelter of Lee's arms.

Breath regained, Scully rolled over to face Lee, resting her head on the 
brunette's shoulder.  "You are still magic," she whispered as she 
brought a hand up to caress Lee's face.

"Shhhh..." Lee said and kissed her.  "You don't have to talk now.  Just 
let me hold you."


****


Scully heard the water drumming as Lee showered and stretched 
luxuriously.  Now it was bedtime for most of the world, not just newly 
reunited lovers.  She and Lee would be sleeping together for the first 
time since high school, and she was filled with anticipation for the 
cuddling, and the waking, and yes the lovemaking that would come before 
it.

*Payback.  That's what we're talking here, payback.  She was the  active 
one this afternoon, and now it's my turn...  Wait.  That sounds like the 
revenge theme in a bad gangster movie.  Not payback, but your turn.  Or 
thank you...*

The afternoon had been everything Scully had hoped for.  The 
declaration, making love, the tenderness after.  They had roused 
themselves from bed, and done a late dinner.  *Dinner.  Seems like a 
kind of formal word for a couple of deluxe burger platters.*  Scully 
smiled to herself, *But we DID have champagne, and laughed like lovers, 
and smiled way too often and generally had a very good time, and held 
hands, both above and below the table...*

And now they were back in their room, and Scully had showered and was 
anticipating Lee's return to their bed.  *Funny how when we checked in 
it was mine, and now it's ours.*  The shower stopped.  A few minutes 
more and Lee stepped into the room naked.

"Brrrrrrrrr!  Where's the heat lamp out here?"  She complained.

"Idiot!  Get in here before you freeze."  Scully paused.  "Or do I 
detect an ulterior motive?"

"Who, me?  Are you accusing me of pulling some shyster lawyer trick?  I 
save those for the courtroom."  Lee flashed a thousand watt smile in 
Scully's direction.  "Besides, you have the oath of Hippocrates, first 
do no harm, so you can't hit me even if I was."

"Why do you think all my patients are dead?  Don't assume they all 
started that way.  Maybe some of them just pissed me off."

"Well, I'll depend on my feminine wiles to see me through then," Lee 
said as she climbed in next to Scully.  "Think it'll work?"

"I'd say the odds are pretty good."  

Scully pulled Lee into her embrace.  The brunette responded by pushing 
her thigh, hard, in between Scully's legs.  *Nice* Scully thought, *but 
not for long .*  She rose up, riding Lee's thigh until she was able to 
lean down and kiss Lee's forehead, while her fingers played in the damp 
black hair.

"Don't get any ideas, young lady.  Tonight I make love to you."
*Although it's hard to stay so generous, when your thigh is moving that 
way, and your hands won't let me go...*
 
Their mouths joined together, and they kissed long, savoring the tastes 
and textures.  Scully moved her hands over Lee's strong shoulders and 
taut breasts.  She broke the shared kiss, and moved downward, licking 
and nibbling as she went; breasts, stomach, navel all received warm love 
from Scully's red mouth.  Now it was Lee's turn to play in the copper 
tresses that moved still lower, and then Scully was there, and Lee 
opened for her, and the redhead's tongue entered her lover again, while 
the her hands busily stroked Lee's back, butt and thighs.

*So long without this taste, this wet love..*

*So long without a lover down there, doing things that are driving me 
mad...*  "OOOOhhhh... Dana..."

Encouraged by the pleasure she was giving, Scully gently moved her 
fingers around the area her tongue had claimed, touching the tops of 
Lee's inner thighs and the sensitive spots nearby, the secret places she 
had known before, and claimed for herself again.  

Lee came, and Scully moved up to kiss and share again the love just 
made.  Now it was Lee's turn to lie spent in her lover's arms, and they 
kissed, and whispered softly, and moved together into sleep.


****


They had left the curtains open onto the balcony, and dawn 
was breaking over the Atlantic.  Lee Caldwell woke to the 
unfamiliar weight of an arm draped over her waist, and the sound 
of soft breathing.  For a split second panic seized her.  *Who?* Then 
the cobwebs cleared and she remembered Dana and the events of the day 
before; she smiled, snuggled back against the softness of the sleeping 
Scully and sighed with contentment. 

These small movements roused Dana.  *Waking up warm again; I'd forgotten 
how good it feels.*  She tightened her arms, squeezing Lee gently; she 
shifted her hips against the other woman, maximizing their contact.  *I 
guess I should be saying this is strange and new.  But it's not new, and 
it doesn't feel strange.  Feels right.  I hope SHE feels the same 
way...*  Scully kissed Lee between the shoulder blades, unconsciously 
repeating the action of years before, on their first morning together.

"MMMM..  Are you trying to start something there, Ms. Scully?"

"What if I am?"

"Then I guess I would have to finish it."  Lee rolled over in Scully's 
arms and wrapped the redhead in an embrace of her own.

"Hold still."  Scully stretched her neck and kissed Lee's eyes.  "And 
now Counselor, where do we go from here?"

Lee smiled, and echoed a line from the old Laurel & Hardy movie they had 
watched last weekend.  "Well, Ollie, it's a fine mess you've gotten us 
into now."

"No mess.. Stanley.  I think it's just fine.  Period.  Do you have any 
thoughts you'd like to share?"

"Just one.  If the position of lover, companion, and partner in crime is 
open in your life, I'd like to apply."

Scully pulled Lee close.  Her body was ringing bells of anticipation and 
she flushed.  *Back off there, desires of the flesh; it'll be your turn 
soon enough, I'm sure.  Right now the pleasures of the mind come first.*   
Aloud she said "We'll put your application on the top of the pile.  If 
you can pass the physical, I'd say you're a shoo-in."

And they kissed.
 
Comments n feedback please to athos_too@hotmail.com