By:  Nantglyn
nantglyn@yahoo.com
 
 

Keywords:  MSR, Angst, Historical AU
Rating:  R, to be safe
Disclaimer:  Characters are not mine.  Just for fun, not
for profit.
Archive:  I'll post to Gossamer.
Note:  Any errors are my own.  This is not a WIP.

Summary:  A new life lay ahead for many who traveled the
Oregon Trail.  This is just one story.
 

Chapter 6

May 16, 1852
Sunday

Reverend John Byers looked around at those who had come to
his service, disappointed by the number who chose to show
up.  There were only a few men, Mr. Skinner being one of
them.  The rest were comprised of about fifty women and
their children.  Skinner's wife and children were there, as
was the Mulder family, sans the head of the family.
Skinner had told Byers that Mr. and Mrs. Mulder were
recently married and that the girl was his and the boy was
hers.  He watched her reach down and place a hand on the
boy's head to still his movements.  The boy looked up and
grinned at his mother, who gave him a stern look.  He bent
down and inspected some creature in the soil.
 
Looking over to his wife, Reverend Byers saw his wife smile
her encouragement as they sang their praises.  He was lucky
to have her, he thought to himself.  Though they hadn't
been blessed with children, his wife Susannah of ten years
was devoted to him and his calling.  They were going to
Oregon to hopefully start a church of their own.  It was
said that there was a need.

As they finished their final praises, the group began to
break up.  Most of families headed back to their camps with
their children.  Skinner and Mrs. Mulder stayed to talk to
each other, so Byers wandered over to introduce himself.

"Hello, I'm Reverend Byers.  I'm so pleased you could
come."

"Thank you, Reverend," Dana said.  "I'm sorry there was
such a light turnout, but I imagine folks are rather tired
already."

"I understand, Mrs. Mulder.  I just thought that we might
get one good service in before the trip really did begin to
wear on everyone.  I do thank you for coming and bringing
your children."

"I'm sorry, but I couldn't convince my husband to come."

"I would like to meet your husband.  Maybe I could convince
him to come next week."

"You could try, but I'm afraid you would be wasting your
time.  My husband is very firm in his convictions and I'm
afraid not going to church is one of them."

Skinner interrupted, "Reverend, my wife and I would like
you to join us for supper since we aren't traveling today.
Dana, you and your family are invited too."

"Thank you Mr. Skinner.  My wife and I would be honored,"
Byers said.

"We'll see you around five then."  Skinner turned to Dana
and said, "And we'll see you as well?"

"Thank you Walter.  Yes, we'll be there."

XXXXXXXXXX

When Dana returned to the camp, she found Mulder gone, but
the boys relaxing by the wagon.

"Where's William?" she asked.

Jimmy and Danny both sat up straight.  "Um," Danny said.
"He said he was going for a walk."

Dana tilted her head, "Where?"

"Said he was going to visit a fr--"

"Danny," Jimmy warned.

"He was going to visit a friend?" Dana asked cautiously.
"A woman friend?  The one who was here yesterday?  Mrs.
Tipton, right?"

"Dana, they haven't seen each other since before Mulder
married Penny," Danny said.  "He just wants to talk to her.
Find out how she's doing."

"Just to talk," she said, trying to reassure herself.  She
glanced away from the boys, not wanting them to see how
troubled she was.

"There's nothing going on."

Dana looked back at Danny quickly.  "I didn't say there
was, but from your tone, I think you might think there is."

"No, no, Dana," Jimmy said, giving his brother a look of
warning to stop talking and making it worse.  "They're just
friends."

"Which way did you say he was headed?" she asked.  Jimmy
sighed and pointed in the direction Mulder had walked.
"Watch the children.  I'll be back soon."

Dana tried to appear as if she was just on a casual walk.
On the other side of the camp, she spotted Mulder sitting
with Diana at a camp.  They were laughing and Dana realized
she had never really made Mulder laugh.  This woman
appeared to make him happy.  She felt a pain in her chest
and her eyes began to water.

She turned sharply and ran into a solid body.  Stepping
back, she looked up and said, "I'm sorry, I didn't see..."
Alex Krycek smiled as he looked down at her.  She hadn't
realized that he had his hands around her until he spoke.

"Mrs. Mulder, Dana, I'm sorry, I didn't realize you were
going to turn suddenly."

She stepped out of his hold and said, "Were you watching
me, Mr. Krycek?"

"Alex.  I'm sorry; I admit I'm guilty.  But you can't blame
me.  I'm a man.  When a man sees a beautiful woman, he
can't help but look."

"Mr. Krycek..."

"Alex."

"Alex, please don't say things like that.  It's not proper.
I'm a married woman."

"Nonsense," he said, waving his hand in dismissal.  "Would
you like to walk Dana?"

"No thank you, I have to get back to my family," she said,
looking in Mulder's direction.

Alex followed her eyes and said, "A friend of the family?"

"What?" she asked, turning back to him.  "No...no.  Just a
friend of my husband."

"A good friend by the looks of it."

Dana froze.  "I'm sorry Mr. Krycek, but I have to get back
to my children."  She turned on her heel and headed away
from him.

Krycek followed her with his eyes until she was no longer
in sight and then looked back at Mulder.  "Interesting," he
said to himself.

XXXXXXXXXXX

Mulder came back to the camp to find Dana sitting by the
wagon with the children sleeping on the quilt on either
side of her.  Dog lay at her feet, but he lifted his head
when he saw Mulder, thumping his tail slowly.  She was
stitching a shirt Mulder had torn the week before.

"I'm sorry I didn't come back for lunch," he said quietly,
trying not to wake the children.  "I lost track of time."

She didn't acknowledge his presence.  He tried again,
"Dana, you shouldn't let that dog lay on the same thing the
children do."  She reached down, patted Dog's head, and
then continued to stitch his shirt.  He tried a direct
approach.  "Are you ignoring me?  I said I was sorry I
forgot lunch."

"Yes, you said so...  You 'lost track of time.'"

"Yes I did."  He wondered if she knew where he had been.
He had been careful not to let her know where he was going,
not wanting to upset her, but decided to be honest.  "I
went to see Diana."

She still didn't look at him.  "Really?"

"Yes, and I've invited her for supper."

She shook her head.  "I accepted an invitation from
Walter."

He placed his hands on his hips and said, "Well, you'll
have to cancel.  Diana will be expecting to eat with us.  I
want you to get to know each other, for her to get to know
the children."

"Why?"

"Why?  Because she's an old friend, a good friend."

"Well if you want to have supper, have it with her, but the
children, the boys and I will be eating with the Skinner
and Byers families."

"But I need you to cook."

"If you want to eat here with her, then do so, but you'll
have to cook it yourself."

"Dana, be reasonable."

"I want to get to know the Reverend and his wife."

"You want to have supper with the preacher?"

"He and his wife seem very nice.  Yes, I want to get to
know new people."

"But a preacher?  You know how I feel about church."

"You don't have to talk about religion."

"Right.  I have never known any preacher who couldn't
resist bringing God into any conversation."

Dana placed her sewing down and stood, "And what's wrong
with that?"

"I'm not going."

"Fine, don't."

"And you aren't taking my child with you either."

"Okay, but you explain it to her.  I'm going to the Skinner
wagon now."  Dana bent down and touched Caleb on the
shoulder, shaking him lightly.  "Caleb, wake up honey.
We're going to see Uncle Walter."  In waking up Caleb, she
also inadvertently woke up Samantha.  She saw Dana pick up
Caleb and begin to walk away.

"Mama," Samantha cried.  "Wait for me."

Dana stopped and turned around.  "Samantha, you have to
stay here."

"Why?  I want to go with you and Caleb.  I want to see
Uncle Walter too."

"I'm sorry Samantha; your father wants you to stay here
with him.  He's invited his friend to dinner and he wants
you to get to know her."

"What friend?" Samantha asked, turning to Mulder.

"Mrs. Tipton.  You remember, the lady who was here
yesterday."

Samantha turned back to Dana.  "I want to go with you."

"All right, you win.  We'll go eat with the Skinners,"
Mulder huffed.  "You don't have to go yet.  I'll go tell
Diana that we'll do it another night."

"We're not going to see Uncle Walter?" Samantha asked.

"Not yet.  We'll see him later," Dana answered.  Mulder
stalked by her.  "We're supposed to eat with them about a
couple of hours before sundown," she called.

XXXXXXXXXX

After dinner, the boys excused themselves to attend the
livestock, while the adults sat around the fire, relaxing.
Caleb and Samantha sat quietly between Mulder and Dana.
The Skinner children were playing near one of their other
wagons.

Mulder found that he was enjoying himself.  The dinner was
good, Reverend Byers and his wife seemed nice, and best of
all, Byers left God and religion out of the conversation.
He still didn't forgive the boys for running off, since he
couldn't do it himself.

"My wife and I come from Indiana," he heard Byers say.  "We
hated leaving our family, but we feel that our future is
ahead of us, in Oregon.  There are so many opportunities
for anyone who is willing to work."

"I agree," Skinner said.  "We've been planning to go for a
couple of years.  Unlike Mulder here," Skinner said,
pointing over his shoulder, "who just decided to come."

"I've heard stories.  I know what I'm getting myself into,"
Mulder said.

"Yes, but I'm not sure any of us really know what lies
ahead," Walter said.

"Prayer will see us through," Byers said.

"Yes, that will do it...prayer."  Mulder looked over to
Dana, as if to say, 'See, I told you so.'
 
"Mr. Mulder, I'm sorry you weren't able to attend our
services this morning," Byers said.

"Not much of a churchgoer Reverend."

"But you believe in God, right?" Byers asked.

Mulder looked over to Dana.  She was shaking her head.  He
turned back to Byers.  "I haven't had call to believe in
him.  I know all about prayer Reverend.  I prayed hard for
my sons to survive, but God didn't listen.  I prayed for my
wife to live.  Again, God didn't listen.  So no, I don't
think there is a God, or if there is, he just happened to
be deaf when I talked to him."

"William," Dana said in warning.  "Please."

"It's all right Mrs. Mulder.  Just makes my job more
challenging."

"What job Reverend?  To make me a believer?  I'm sorry, but
that isn't going to happen.  I don't believe.  And even if
I did, I wouldn't trust leaving it to prayer alone.  Not
ever again."

"God doesn't always answer our prayers Mr. Mulder.  Or at
least not the way we want him to.  I believe there is a
reason for everything that happens.  It's all part of God's
plan."

"So, what you're telling me Reverend is that God wanted my
sons and my wife to die."

"I didn't say that Mr. Mulder."

Mulder stood.  "No, but you implied it.  I want my sons
back.  I want my wife back.  Can God do that for me?"

He saw Byers look behind him.  When he turned, he saw
Dana's shocked look.  She stood, grabbing Caleb, and began
running in the direction of their wagons with Samantha
following closely behind.  He turned back, seeing Skinner
and his wife looking uncomfortable.  Byers and his wife
also looked as uncomfortable as the Skinners.

XXXXXXXXXX

It was quiet when Mulder returned to his camp late.  He
stumbled as he was tried to walk to the wagon.

Dog came around the wagon, but crawled back under when he
realized it was Mulder.  Always on the watch, thought
Mulder.  Maybe it was good that they had the dog with them.

It took him several attempts to climb into the wagon.  When
he finally did, he found it dark.  He felt his way to the
bed, undressed, and crawled under the covers.  Dana was
against the other side of the wagon, as far away from him
as she could be.

"I'm sorry, Dana," he spoke quietly.  She remained silent,
so he reached over to touch her and felt her stiffen.  "I
lost my temper."

She turned towards him, furrowing her brow.  "Have you been
drinking?"

Mulder hiccupped.  "Just a little."

"I think it was more than a little.  I can smell it on you
from here."  She lay back down and turned away from him.
She was quiet for several minutes before she spoke again.
"You didn't tell me."

"Tell you what?"

"That you weren't over losing your wife.  I thought you
would have mourned and moved on by now.  I was wrong."

"I can't help it that I still miss her," a bit of sorrow
touching his voice.

"Don't you think I miss Jack?  I do, but I am ready to move
on.  I thought I had, with you.  You should have told me
you weren't ready, you should never have married me."  He
heard her sniffle.  "I should have listened to my brother."

"No, you're wrong.  I am ready to move on."

"You wouldn't have said that you wanted your wife
here...here with you instead of me."

"Dana, I do want you here with me."

"Please, just leave me alone."

Silence filled the wagon for some moments.  Finally, Mulder
said, "All right, I'll let you sleep now.  But, I mean it,
I am glad you're here with me."  He rolled over onto his
side, away from her, just wishing for the night to be over.

XXXXXXXXXX

May 20, 1852
Thursday

They had arrived at the Big Blue River, a little bit more
tired.  Dana had only spoken to Mulder when he asked a
direct question and when she did answer; she used as few
words as possible.  He had avoided Diana, even though she
had attempted to talk to him.  He didn't want to cause
further problems with Dana, but he was beginning to feel
guilty, guilty that he was ignoring a friend.  He wondered
what Diana thought.  Even though it might hurt Dana's
feelings, he knew that he had to talk to Diana.  He didn't
have many friends.  He needed to keep those he already had,
especially with going to a new country.

They had arrived at the encampment before sunset.  The
company planned to stay the next day because Mrs. Riley was
going to have her baby soon.  Dana had told him that the
baby should be delivered before midnight.  Mulder was left
to take care of the children after she and Sharon went to
help with the delivery.  Earlier, the children had been
playing quietly with Dog.  Samantha had found a stick and
threw if for Dog to retrieve.  Caleb would squeal with
delight when Dog brought it back.  Mulder smiled as he
watched his daughter try to teach Caleb to throw the stick
farther than in front of his feet, but she wasn't very
successful.  She was being so patient.  Mulder wondered if
she might be teacher in the future.

Now, the children were tucked in bed.  The camp had become
quiet an hour ago and Mulder was waiting for Dana to
return.

He was interrupted from his thoughts when he heard from his
side, "Fox, are you avoiding me?"

He looked up and said, "Diana, what are you doing here?
It's late."  Mulder glanced nervously around.  "You
shouldn't be here."

"Relax Fox, nobody knows I'm here and your wife is still at
the Riley's wagon."

"How do you know?"

"My sister went to help too."

"Oh."

"Can we walk?" Diana asked.

"No, I'm watching the children."

"We haven't talked in a long time Fox.  Did I do something
wrong?"

"No, you didn't doing anything wrong.  It's just that we've
been traveling so much, there hasn't been time."

Diana moved closer to him and reached for his hand.  "We
used to be close Fox.  Is it your wife?  She doesn't like
me, does she?"  He could hear her voice trembling.  When he
didn't respond, she said, "I'm sorry Fox, maybe we
shouldn't be talking."

She moved to turn when Mulder stopped her by reaching up
and cupping her cheek.  "Diana, wait.  I'm sorry."

She grabbed his hand and pressed it closer to her, leaning
into his touch.  "I just want to be your friend Fox.  I've
missed you."

Mulder leaned in and kissed her lightly on the lips without
thinking.  Diana was surprised by the horrified look that
began to cross his face as he jerked his head back.  He
pulled back his hand like she was fire.  "I'm sorry Diana.
I shouldn't have done that."

"No, Fox, it's all right."  She reached for his hand again,
but he pulled back out of her reach.

"No, it's not all right Diana.  I'm married now.  It's not
fair to Dana.  I can't do this.  I have never broken my
vows."

"You mean with Penny.  I understand that.  You loved her
deeply and you were loyal to her."  She paused before
saying, "Fox, you have to know that I love you still.  Can
you say that about her?  Does she love you?"  Mulder looked
away.  "No, you can't say it.  I don't care what people
think.  I can't stop the way I feel about you.  Please Fox,
just think about us."  Diana turned and walked the way she
had come before Mulder could respond.

Mulder decided that maybe he shouldn't be up when Dana
returned.  He didn't want her to see him like this so he
climbed into the wagon to go to bed.
 

May 21, 1852
Friday

Dana had arrived at their camp late at night and found
Mulder fast asleep.  She had quickly joined him but woke to
find him gone the next morning.  Danny was outside the
wagon when Dana climbed out.  She handed the children down
to him and they began to run off.

"Samantha, Caleb, stay by the wagon.  Breakfast will be
ready soon," Dana called.

Danny stoked the campfire for Dana.  "Where did William
go?" Dana asked.

"He went with Jimmy and some men to look for game."

"Oh.  How long will they be gone?"

"Maybe all day.  It's hard to say.  Mulder asked me to look
after you."

"Danny, you don't need to look after me."

"But Mulder said..."

"I don't care what he said.  I'll be fine.  You go ahead
and do what you need to do after breakfast.  Then you can
come back for lunch."

"All right.  By the way, how is Mrs. Riley?"

Dana smiled.  "Had a little boy.  Mother and child were
both doing well when I left.  I love babies."

"Too much trouble," Danny said, shaking his head.  "Do you
think you and Mulder will have children?"

"I hope so.  I think William wants children.  At least he
says he does."

"Maybe."

"What, you don't think so?" Dana asked.

"I think he blames himself for the sons he lost.  I think
he really blames himself for Penny...  I'm sorry, maybe I
shouldn't say anything."

"No, it's all right.  Why does he blame himself?"

"Well, the doctor told them that Penny shouldn't have any
more children.  He told them that they were lucky when
Samantha survived.  He didn't think Penny would survive
another baby."

"But he wanted a son."

"No.  He told me that he was all right with just Samantha.
He didn't want to risk losing Penny for another child but
she thought the risk was worth it; she wanted to give him a
son.  She promised that when they had a son, they wouldn't
have any more children."

"So she talked him into it.  She must have really loved
him."

"Yes, yes she did.  He loved her just as much."

Dana turned from him to take the bread and meat off the
fire.  She put the food in plates for the children and
called them.  They came running with Dog following closely.

"I'm sorry.  You're upset," Danny said.

She turned back to hand him his plate.  "No, I'm glad you
told me."  To the children she said, "Samantha, Caleb, sit
down and eat your breakfast."

They all ate their meal in silence.

When Danny finished, he asked, "Dana, are you sure you'll
be all right today?  I can stay around."

"No, really we'll be fine."

"All right, I'll see you later."

XXXXXXXXXX

Dana put the children down for a nap in the wagon after
they hauled water from a spring.  She was relaxing on her
quilt next to the wagon, reading the bible when she was
interrupted.

"Mrs. Mulder?"

Dana looked up to see the last person that she wanted to
see.  "Mrs. Tippett."

Diana smiled, "Tipton, but call me Diana."

"I'm sorry, Mrs. Tipton, I didn't remember.  William isn't
here."

"William?" she asked, cocking her head.  "Oh, you mean Fox.
No, I came to see you."

"Me?" Dana asked in surprise.

"Yes, I wanted to get to know you."

"Why?"

"Why?  Because I'm Fox's friend and he said he wanted me to
get to know you."

"I'm sorry, but my husband really hasn't talked about you
with me."

"Really."  Diana moved to sit on the quilt with Dana,
although she hadn't been asked.

"So, how do you know my husband?  He hasn't said."

"Fox and I were engaged to be married before he knew Penny.
No one knew about the engagement though."  She spread her
skirt and sighed.  "We were both very young and planned to
wait a couple of years to let others know.  Our parents
wouldn't have let us marry so young."

"I hadn't realized," Dana said.

"Yes, but Penny came along and he only had eyes for her.
He broke our engagement and married her."

"That must have been painful."

Diana nodded.  "Yes, it was then, but I see that he was
right.  He wouldn't have been happy married to me when he
loved her more."

"More?"

"Yes, I know Fox loved me.  Your first love is always very
special, don't you think?"

Dana looked up when she heard, "Mama?" from the wagon.

"I'm sorry Mrs. Tipton, but I have to go to my children."

"Your children?"

"Mrs. Tipton, when I married my husband, his daughter
became my child and my son his."

"How long have you been married?  Fox didn't say."

"A little over a month."

"Oh, so not very long.  I hadn't realized," Diana said.
"Is he happy?  I can't tell."

Dana huffed and stood up.  Diana followed her.  "Mrs.
Tipton, I don't wish to discuss my husband with you any
more."

"I'm sure he's very protective of his daughter.  I can't
believe Fox and Penny named their child Samantha.  I'm not
that superstitious, but I would never have allowed my child
to be named after her."

"Her?  Her who?" Dana asked.

"You mean he hasn't told you about his sister?"

"What sister?  I thought he was the only child."

"Oh, really.  I shouldn't have said anything.  It's a very
sensitive subject with him.  He doesn't usually talk about
her unless he really trusts a person."

Dana didn't miss the slight Diana had thrown her way.
"Really Mrs. Tipton, I have to go now."  Dana quickly
turned away and climbed into the wagon.

If Dana had turned back around, she would have found Diana
gloating at the hurt she had just caused.
 

May 22, 1852
Saturday

Dana was walking with Samantha next to their lead wagon as
Caleb slept inside.  Jimmy led this wagon, while Danny took
charge of their second wagon.  They heard a horse come up
behind them and stop.  Turning around, Samantha and Dana
saw Mulder jump down from his horse and walk up to them.

"Papa," Samantha yelled, running to him.

Mulder bent down and threw her up, before he hugged her to
him.  He lifted Samantha and placed her on his shoulders.
When he handed the reins to Dana, she tied the horse to
their lead wagon.  The horse plotted along at the oxen's
pace.

"Thank you," Mulder said to Dana.  She looked up at him,
her eyes questioning him.  "For talking to Diana.  She said
she saw you yesterday."

"Humph," Dana said, looking straight ahead.  She began to
walk again.

Mulder moved to follow her.  "What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"Didn't sound like 'nothing' to me.  Don't you like her?"

Dana turned to him before looking away again.  "Not
particularly."

"Why not?"  She remained silent.  "I asked why not?"  When
she still didn't answer, he said, "Look, she's a good
person."

"I don't think she's too happy with me being your wife."

"She's happy for me."

"She told you that?"

"No, but I know Diana would want me to be happy."

She stopped and Mulder followed suit.  "Are you?  Are you
happy?"

He looked down at her.  "Dana, I'm very satisfied with our
arrangement."

"Satisfied.  That doesn't mean happy."

Mulder reached down and placed his hand on her neck.
"Dana, I'm glad we married.  It was a good decision."

"I get the feeling that if we hadn't married, Diana would
be walking here with you.  Do you regret marrying me now
that you know Diana is a widow?"

"Dana, I don't understand why you're questioning me."

"She said you loved her.  Do you still love her William?"

Mulder moved his hand to her waist and started walking with
her again.  "No.  Honestly Dana, I don't know if I ever
did."

"Well she still loves you.  I can hear it in her voice."

"No, I don't believe that.  But even if it were true, I
married you.  I'm committed to our marriage.  I don't know
what else I can say."

"Papa, I want to get down now," Samantha said from above.
He lifted her from his shoulders and set her down.  She
immediately ran up to Jimmy who grabbed her hand when she
reached him.

Mulder stopped Dana, leaned down, and quickly kissed her on
the lips.  "What was that for?" she asked, surprised at his
impulsiveness.  Mulder grinned and looked away.  "William?"

He turned back to her.  "I just felt like it."  He leaned
in again and kissed her longer this time.  Dana felt
breathless when he leaned back.  "Gotta go," he said,
grinning even bigger.  He placed his hand under her chin
and lifted, shutting her mouth that had opened in surprise.
Turning from her, he trotted back to his horse and untied
him from the wagon.  After Mulder climbed up, he turned
back to her once more and waved.

She remained frozen in the spot where he left her.  She
watched him ride off ahead, still in shock.  He had never
openly shown affection in public.  She looked to her right
and saw Danny smiling as he passed her.  She turned and ran
back to the first wagon and followed Jimmy and Samantha,
her heart still beating rapidly.
 

~~~
 

Chapter 7

May 23, 1852
Sunday

Early in the day, they had seen their first Indians.
Krycek had told them that they were Pawnee Indians.  He
told them not to worry, but to just keep moving.  Mulder
had wished he could ride up to them.  They fascinated him,
but Krycek had insisted that they keep their distance.

Yesterday, the train spotted antelope for the first time.
They also saw their first buffalo.  Some were lying down,
others feeding, or moving about.  Some on the men decided
to cross the Platte and hunt them.  Mulder saddled up along
with his cousins, Skinner, and about fifteen other men.

The men began shooting them, shooting more than they could
possibly take back before Skinner could stop them.  They
left several on the field, not able to take it all back
with them.  When they returned, they set about preparing
the meat and skins.

They had camped along the Platte River last night and today
reached the head of Grand Island as the sun hung low over
the horizon.  Mulder asked Dana if she would like to take a
walk with him, away from the camp, to spend some time
alone.

"Do you think we'll make it before winter?" Dana asked him
as they walked.

He placed his arm around her and pulled her close.  "We're
doing just fine.  Don't worry."

"I've heard some stories about how people could be trapped
on the mountains."

"I told you, you don't need to worry about that.  You just
worry about taking care of us."

"I wish there were more trees," Dana said, looking over to
a lone tree just ahead.  "I can't believe how few we're
seeing now."

"It's like that on the plains."  Dana stopped.  "What?" he
asked.

"Do you feel that?"

"Feel what?"

"My feet.  They feel odd."

Mulder nodded and bent down, putting his ear to the ground.
He heard what sounded like hundreds of heartbeats.  No, it
couldn't be, he thought to himself.  He lifted his head,
looking back over the hill on the horizon.

"Dana?"

"Yes?"

"Run!"  He got to his feet and began pulling her along with
him.  She looked back over her shoulder and saw what looked
like a dark cloud, coming towards them.

"Faster!" he exclaimed, pulling her.  She saw where he was
heading, the lone tree she had spotted earlier, and tried
to keep up with him.  When they reached the tree, he lifted
her up.  "Climb higher."  She reached for a higher branch
and pulled herself up just as Mulder cleared the lowest
branch.  "Climb higher Dana," he shouted.

"I'm trying."  She felt him reach down and grab one of her
legs and lifted her so she could reach a sturdier branch.
She turned around and sat down, grabbing the tree for
support.  When she looked down, she saw great beasts
passing underneath the tree.

Mulder climbed up next to her and wrapped his arms around
her and the tree.  The roar of all the hooves beating the
ground became louder.  "Hold on," he shouted, turning and
looking in the direction of the hill.  The buffalo seemed
to be coming as strong as when it first started.  He
watched in awe as he said to himself, "There must be
thousands of them."

The dust began to get thick in the air, making it difficult
to breathe.  A few of the buffalo bumped their tree and
Mulder tightened his grip around Dana.  "I just want them
to stop," Dana said.  "You men must have made them angry."

Mulder laughed.  "I don't think it works like that.
They're just dumb animals.  Besides, that can't be the same
herd."  Dana leaned her head against the tree and coughed.
"Are you feeling okay?"  Dana nodded her head.  Mulder
looked back over the hill again.  "It looks like there are
less of them."

Dana looked in the same direction. "I'm not getting down
until they're all gone," she told him.

"All right, we'll wait."

After the last of the buffalo had passed, Mulder began
climbing down, helping her along the way.  When they were
back on solid ground, Dana grabbed Mulder's arm for
support.  He looked down at her and she said, "I guess my
legs are a little shaky."

Mulder gripped her waist tightly and said, "Come on, let's
go back to camp."

When they walked into camp, they noticed people staring at
them.  Danny stood up and came to them when they reached
their wagon.  "What happened to you two?"

"What do mean?" Mulder asked.

"You're filthy."

Dana and Mulder nodded and laughed.  "I guess they threw up
a lot of dust on us," Mulder said.

"They?"  Danny's eyes grew wide.  "Don't tell me.  Were you
in the middle of all of that?  We could see them from here,
but we never dreamed anyone would be out there."

As Dana shook the dust from her dress and headed for the
wagon, Mulder said, "We were just taking a walk."

"You're lucky you survived," Danny said.

When Dana returned, she handed Mulder a rag.  He looked
solemnly at her and said, "Yes, yes we were."

"I'm going to change," she said, heading back towards their
wagon.

"I can't believe you made it," Danny said.

"We found a tree."

"Really?  Must have been the only one for miles."

Mulder nodded.  "I think I'll go change too."
 

May 24, 1852
Monday

The company had traveled about ten miles that day when it
began to rain.  After an hour of traveling in the rain,
they realized that they would have to stop.  Mulder was on
first watch, so when Danny came to relieve him after five
hours, he was more than ready to get out of the rain.

Mulder returned to his wagon late in the evening, the rain
still falling.  Before he entered their wagon from the
back, he tried to shake off as much of the water as
possible, but ended up getting the end of the wagon wet.

"Stop," he heard as he began to crawl in.

"What?" he asked, a leg still hanging out in the rain.

"Just stay at the end there and don't come in any further,"
Dana said, grabbing cloths.  She had a lantern lit, but it
wasn't burning brightly.  It was lit just enough to see,
but not much more.

"Papa's wet," he heard Samantha say as he brought his other
leg into the wagon.

"Yes," he said, "very wet.  Want a hug?"  Samantha backed
away from him, shaking her head.  Mulder laughed and he
watched her lie back down.  "Go to sleep Samantha."

As Dana reached around and closed the end of the canvas to
shut the rain out, he saw Samantha nod and roll back over,
turning away from him.  Caleb snored softly next to her.

"It's really coming down out there," he said as Dana began
wiping him down with a cloth.

"We won't be able to go tomorrow either will we?  Even if
it stops raining soon."

Mulder bent down so Dana could dry his hair.  "Mmm," he
said, "that feels good."

"William?"

"Sorry," he said, bending back up.  "No, I don't think
we'll be able to go tomorrow.  It will be too muddy.  God,
I'm soaked through."

In an attempt to help him undress faster, Dana began to
unbutton his shirt from the bottom as he unbuttoned it from
the top.  He turned around so that she could pull his shirt
off.  It seemed as if his clothes were glued to him.
Mulder had abandoned wearing his drawers about a week into
their journey from St. Joe.  When he pulled his pants down,
bearing himself, she turned away to look for the drawers
she had set out.  When she found them, she held them out
behind her.  He took them and then tossed them back in
front of her.

"I'm not wearing those."
 
"Why?" she asked, as she felt him come up behind her and
slip his arms around her waist.  He pulled her back against
him and kissed her neck lightly.  Dana turned her head so
he could have better access and Mulder trailed kisses along
her jaw as he turned her, finding her lips.  She deepened
the kiss when she felt his lips touch hers.

Mulder looked over her shoulder to make sure that the
children were both sleeping soundly.  "I'm still wet.  Dry
me some more?" he asked, grabbing the cloth she had been
using.

Dana smiled and said, "Turn around."

Mulder smirked and said, "I was thinking my front is
wetter," but turned around for her.

She took her time and wiped him thoroughly, starting at his
shoulders and arms.  She especially took her time on his
rear, he noted, before wiping his legs off.  He turned
around before she could get up and she paused.  "Dana, I'm
still wet."

She took a few moments before she started at his feet and
rubbed them with the cloth.  She traveled up his legs until
she came midway.  She had never seen a man completely naked
before, not even Jack.  She was curious enough that she
looked at him, but when she raised her eyes to him, she
looked back down, closing her eyes tightly.  She was
embarrassed to find him watching her.

"It's all right, you can look."

Dana shook her head.  "I can't."

He lifted her chin and said, "Dana, look at me."

"It's not right," she said, opening her eyes to look at
him.

"Not even to please me?"  He felt guilty for emotionally
blackmailing her, but he wanted her to not be so reserved.
She had been opening up to him more and more.

"It makes you happy for me to look at you?"

"Yes," he said.  He bent down and helped her to her feet.
Lifting one of her hands, he turned it so that he could
kiss her wrist.  Her eyes followed their joined hands as he
placed hers on his penis.  When she began to pull back, he
gripped her hand tighter, causing himself to groan.

Dana looked up at him, surprised at his reaction.  She
began to stroke him and she heard his breath quicken.
"Stop," he said.

She instantly pulled her hand back.  "Sorry."  She began to
back away from him, but he stopped her by putting his hand
around her waist.

"No, it felt good, really good.  It's just that I want to
make love to you and I'm afraid we won't be able to if you
keep doing that."

Dana smiled.  "Oh."

Mulder extinguished the lantern and began to unbutton her
dress.  He lifted it over her head and quickly dispensed of
her other clothing.  He leaned down and began kissing her
again.

They both stopped when they heard Samantha speak
unintelligibly.  After a few moments, he said, "It's all
right.  She sometimes talks in her sleep, but once she goes
to sleep, she sleeps heavily.  Come on, let's get under the
covers."

Mulder crawled in first and he covered them both when she
crawled in after him.  He immediately kissed her and she
responded in kind.  He placed his hand on her stomach and
caressed her softly before moving lower.  He was surprised
when he felt her open her legs for him.  When he sensed
that she was ready for him, he crawled over her, settling
at the junction of her legs.

"William," she said, reaching up and caressing his cheek.

"What?" he asked.

"I like touching you."

Mulder laughed.  "I like you touching me too."  He entered
her and heard her sigh.

"You've never done that for me."

"What?" he asked, stilling for a moment.

"Laughed for me."

"Dana, what are you talking about?  You're distracting me."

"Sorry.  It's nothing."

Mulder began moving again.  In a little while, he heard her
breath quicken and covered her mouth before she had a
chance to cry out.  He quickly followed her, collapsing on
top of her.  When he had his breath again, he rolled off.
He didn't really know what he was doing differently with
her, but none of the women he'd been with had ever reacted
as Dana did with him, not even Penny.  He hadn't known a
woman could experience the same intensity of pleasure he
did until he was with Dana.

Mulder pulled her to him, and she settled her head on his
shoulder, throwing a leg over his.  He slowly rubbed his
hand over her back and she cuddled closer to him.  "I'm
happy," he said.  "For the first time, in a long time, I'm
happy.  It's because of you Dana.  I really feel like I
have a future and I'm glad you and Caleb are both in it."

Dana nodded and felt herself drift off into a blissful
sleep.  Mulder, however, listened to the night sounds,
unable to sleep yet.  He had meant what he said to Dana.
He still felt twinges of betrayal to Penny, but that was
slowly easing.  Dana was his present and Penny was his
past.  It wasn't fair to Dana and Caleb to continue living
in the past.  He vowed to himself that he would try hard to
make Dana feel just as happy as he felt.
 

May 25, 1852
Tuesday

The next morning, Mulder woke to see light and was thankful
the rain had seemed to stop.  They would have to spend the
day drying out and hopefully; the earth would dry as well.
The wagons would easily get stuck in the mud if they tried
to leave today.

In the night, Dana had turned on her side and he had
snuggled up to her back.  Reaching under the covers, he
rubbed his hand along her hip.  He enjoyed waking up with
her naked beside him.  He couldn't wait until they had more
privacy in Oregon and intended to make sure they would have
their own bedroom, no matter what.  He felt that he was
only beginning to understand this Dana, the one who shared
his nights.

He moved his hand down to her stomach and caressed her.  He
was having mixed emotions.  He loved being with Dana, but
the closer he felt he was getting to her; the more he
worried about her having a baby.

"It's still too early."

"What?" he asked.

She linked her fingers with his.  "A baby.  We won't know
for a couple of months."

"When?"

"Maybe late June or July sometime.  I got sick a few times
a day about six or seven months before I had Caleb."

"You'll let me know as soon as you know?"

Dana rolled over to face him.  His hand returned to her hip
and he slowly moved his thumb there.

"William," she said, "I'll be all right, I promise."

He shook his head.  "You can't promise something like
that."  He looked into her eyes and felt tears begin to
form.  "I can't lose you too."

She smiled and said, "You won't.  I had an easy birth with
Caleb.  The midwife was surprised how easy it was
considering he was my first.  She said the first was always
the hardest."

"Penny wouldn't let me be there when she had our children.
Promise me that you won't shut me out.  If we have
children, I want to be there."

"Why would you want to?  Men just don't do that."

"They said my sons lived for a few minutes, but they
wouldn't let me in to see them.  No one would let me see my
boys."

She thought for a moment before saying, "All right, you can
be there.  Just don't be surprised when I start blaming you
for the pain."

"What does that mean?"

Dana chuckled.  "When you begin to feel that much pain, you
begin to blame the source of it.  And," Dana said, running
her finger down his nose, before poking him on the tip,
"that would be the man."

"Just so long as I'm there, you can say anything you want."

"You may not have a choice anyway.  If our neighbors aren't
close, you may have to deliver the baby yourself."

"What?" Mulder asked loudly.

"Papa?" Samantha asked, rubbing her eyes.

Mulder turned on his stomach and reached up to her.  He
pulled the covers back over her and said, "Shh, go back to
sleep.  It's too soon to get up."

"Okay."

Mulder settled back down by Dana.  "I hadn't considered not
having a midwife, let alone a doctor."

"William, we'll be okay."

"Mulder," they heard from outside.

"Yah," he called back.

"You're due on watch in an hour."

"All right."

"I should get up," Dana said.  "I need to fix your
breakfast."

Mulder pulled her back down as she began to get up.  "Kiss
first," he said.

Dana smiled and leaned back down to kiss him.  Their kisses
became more intense, but Dana broke away.  "Not in the day,
William."

Mulder released her, but said as she pulled her dress down
over her head, "Just wait until we have a bedroom."

"What does that mean?" she asked.

Mulder grinned and said, "Just go fix my breakfast."

Dana stood up and pulled her shoes on.  "I'm going."  She
began to crawl out of the wagon, but leaned back in.  "But
you have to get the children dressed."  She left before he
could respond.

XXXXXXXXXX

Later that day, when Mulder arrived back at their camp, he
saw clothes scattered around their camp, drying.  Dana
didn't notice his arrival.

"Where are the children?" Mulder asked.

Dana looked up and smiled at him.  "Inside napping."

Mulder stretched.  "I'm bushed myself."

"When do you have to go on watch again?"

"Not until tomorrow.  How about we join the children for a
nap?"

"You go ahead," she said as she continued to lay out the
clothes.  "I still have things to do."
 
Mulder came up behind her and took the clothes out her
hands.  "Leave it until later."

Dana took them back.  "I can't."  He grabbed them again and
when she went for them, he held them high above his head.
"That's not fair."

He tossed the clothes back down.  "Come on," he said,
placing his hand on her stomach, causing her to walk
backwards.  "You can do this later."  He bent down to her
ear and said, "And I'm tired."  When he looked back at her,
he winked.

"Oh, no.  I told you, not in the day."

Mulder sighed.  "All right, let's just take a nap."

"William, I mean it."

"I do too," he said as they reached the wagon.  "Just a
nap."  He turned her around and lifted her by the waist.
She climbed in ahead of him and noticed that the children
were thankfully still asleep.  Mulder pushed her ahead of
him, being careful not to step on the children.

When she collapsed on their covers, he pulled off his
boots.  Dana reached down to do the same, but he stopped
her, saying, "I'll do it."

She thought it was innocent enough until she felt him
massage her foot.  "I don't see how you wear those tight
shoes.  Your feet must be killing you."

"I'm used to it.  William," she warned, looking back at the
children.

"What?" he asked.  His hands had started to roam up under
her skirts, but he removed them.  "I've always wondered,"
he said, moving to cover her body with his.

"Wondered what?"

He began kissing her and felt her respond.  He heard her
moan as he moved to her neck.

"Shh," he said, but secretly, he enjoyed being able to make
her feel like this.  He glanced up to make sure the
children were still asleep.  "This," he said as he began to
move over her, rubbing back and forth.  He reached down and
adjusted himself through his pants until he found a more
pleasant position. He felt himself swell with each pass and
felt her spread her legs wider.

"Oh my," she said, breathing harder.

"Yes," he said.

They moved quietly, until Mulder felt himself explode.  He
looked down to see that Dana was writhing underneath him.
He continued to move for her and she shortly cried out.  He
hadn't been fast enough in covering her mouth this time and
she woke the children.

"Mama," Samantha called.

Mulder had recovered before Dana and said, "It's okay, you
can go back to sleep."

Samantha sat up, followed by Caleb.  "I'm not tired
anymore," she said, rubbing her eyes.

"Well Papa and Mama are," he told her, looking down at
Dana's flushed face.  She looked up at him accusingly.  "Go
back to sleep.  Both of you."

"I don't want to Papa," Samantha whined.

"No, Papa," Caleb said, shaking his head.

"All right, that's enough out of the both of you.  Lie
down.  I don't care if you sleep, but I want you to be
quiet."  They both lay back and despite their best efforts
to do otherwise, they soon fell asleep.

"See, we can do it in the day now," Mulder whispered.

"William, that was sinful, what we did."

"What do you mean?"

"Sex should only be for making a baby.  It says so in the
bible."

"What, just because I didn't stick it in you, it's a sin?"

"Don't be crude."

He kissed her neck.  "Did you enjoy yourself?"

"That's not the point."

"What is the point then?  I thought you enjoyed it.  I know
I enjoyed it," he said smiling.

Dana looked away.  "I did."

"Good.  Now go to sleep.  I really am tired, especially
now."
 

May 29, 1852
Saturday

Fort Kearny was a grungy looking post that contained only a
few decent looking dwellings.  Luckily, it had a post
office.  As Dana sat quietly beside him, Mulder sat down to
write his parents to let them know they were well.  Danny
had walked with them to the post office and when he
finished his letter to his parents, he handed it to Mulder.

Mulder turned to Dana and asked, "Don't you want to write
your brother?"

She shook her head.  "Not yet.  I don't know what I would
say."

"It might make you feel better.  You should write him."

"I will, but not yet."

Mulder didn't want to push her, so he just nodded.  "We'll
be moving on, so you go on back with Danny to the wagon.
I'll be there shortly."

She nodded and he watched them leave.  He looked over his
letter again, reading:
 

Dear Folks,

Hope you are well.  It is the 29th of May and we have seen
many sights.  The children and Dana are well.

You will never believe who is traveling on this trip with
us.  Diana Tipton.  You'll remember her as Diana Fowley.
Her husband died and she is traveling with her sister
Sarah, Sarah's husband and their three children.  She is
well and it seems hard to believe that so many years have
passed.

Samantha adores Dana and I know Dana feels the same way.
Dana's son Caleb is a charming little boy who is two and a
half.  He was born the same month as Samantha, so we will
be celebrating two birthdays in March.

I have grown to love Caleb as much as my dear sons who are
buried next to their mother back in Missouri.  Penny.  I
still miss her, but Dana is slowly finding a place in my
heart.  I sometimes feel guilty for this feeling, but I
also know I must move on.

Death seems to be more common than not.  We usually pass
three to four graves each day, sometimes more.  Our company
has been fortunate and only lost one member to the sickness
that seems to plague the trip, an elderly lady by the name
of Mrs. Mary Wiley.  She was traveling with her son and his
family.

The sickness can vary, but some get diarrhea and their skin
becomes wrinkled due to being unable to keep water in their
system.  Some think this is due to fatigue, but we have
begun to think it might be something they eat or drink.  We
are careful about what water we drink or what we eat as a
result.  We are told that when you pass Fort Laramie, there
is much less sickness.  I cannot wait because I hold my
breath each day, praying that Dana, the children, and I do
not get this deadly sickness.  People have been known to be
fine in the morning, but die within the day.

The Indians have left us alone for the most part.  I know
you fear for our safety, but I feel that the sickness is
more of a threat than the Indians.

I am hoping that one day, we will be able to return home
for a visit or you will be able to come see us, but I know
that is far in the future.

I will write again when I have the chance.

Your loving son,

Fox
 

Mulder folded the letter and walked into the Post Office to
send the letters.

XXXXXXXXXX

After leaving the fort, they traveled several miles when
they saw other teams crossing the river.  Skinner met up
with Krycek to discuss what to do.

"I think it's worth the risk.  At least there shouldn't be
as many people on the other side," Skinner said.

"We should have crossed yesterday," Krycek said to Skinner.
"The water seems to be up."

"Can we still cross?"

"Yes, it just won't be as easy.  Everyone should secure all
of their items."

"I'll take my wagons across first.  It was my decision to
cross.  If it isn't safe, we'll know."

Krycek nodded.  "I'll help.  Go ahead and tell the others
to get ready.  I rode across early this morning, but I'll
ride across again to make sure it can still be done."

"All right Krycek."  Skinner watched him mount his horse
before he headed back to the wagons.

XXXXXXXXXX

Dana paused from walking along the shore.  Their wagons
would be the last to go across.  Mulder had volunteered to
bring up the rear, so she had nothing to do but wait.
Samantha and Caleb were playing in the sand a short
distance from her.  She glanced their way every so often as
she kept an eye on them, making sure that they didn't
stray.

She stopped and sat down, pulling her shoes off to get the
sand out of them, glancing out over the procession.  The
Skinners were the first to cross and all had gone well.
Now, there was a lot of action on the other side of the
river, but Dana's attention was drawn to Krycek directing
the wagons to the best route.  When he looked up and waved,
she smiled and waved back.

"What is he waving to you for?" Mulder asked from behind,
surprising her.

Dana looked back at the children to make sure that they
were still safe before answering.  He sat down beside her
as she said, "He's just being friendly."

Mulder looked back at Krycek.  "I don't like him.  I don't
want you to talk to him."

"What?" she asked.  "You're not serious."

"I mean it Dana.  I think he's a dangerous man.  I don't
trust him.  You're my wife and I'm telling you, you are not
to talk to him."

"I can't be rude."

Samantha came running towards them, Caleb lagging behind
her.  "Papa, do we get to go now?" Samantha asked.

"Almost," he said to her, standing up.  "I just came to get
all of you."

"Papa, up," Caleb commanded, reaching toward Mulder.

Mulder reached down and threw him on his shoulders.  After
Dana had slipped her shoes back on, he reached down to help
her up.  She grabbed Samantha's hand and they walked back
towards their wagon.

"You're going to ride in the first wagon with the children.
Make sure that they stay down.  I'm going to drive the team
across.  Jimmy and Danny will drive the second team."

"All right," Dana said.

As Mulder was helping Dana into the wagon, Krycek rode up.
"You ready Mulder?"

"Yes," he said, lifting Caleb off of his shoulders and into
Dana's hands.  He then lifted Samantha up.

"Mrs. Mulder," Alex said, "you'll want to make sure you
hold onto the children and sit down inside your wagon."

"She knows," Mulder said to him.  "Dana, go on inside."

"Wait.  Hand up Dog."

"Dana," Mulder said, "he can swim across on his own."

"I want him in the wagon, not trying to cross that river."

"He can make it all right, he's done it before."

"Fine," she said, beginning to climb back out, "I'll get
him myself."

Mulder put up his hand to stop her.  "I'll get him, just
get back up."  He went to the back of the wagon and
whistled for Dog.  Soon, the dog came running and Mulder
reached down and tossed him into the back of the wagon.

Up front, he began to climb, but Krycek leaned towards him
and said, "There are a couple of men missing.  They're
looking for them, that's what you're seeing," he said,
pointing across the river.  "You need to be extra careful."

"I will be," Mulder said.

"Just to be sure, I'll ride at the head of your team."

Before Mulder could answer, Krycek headed back towards the
river to wait for him.

XXXXXXXXXXX

The action continued across the river, but Mulder focused
on keeping his own team on course.  As promised, Krycek was
waiting to help him cross.  As Mulder entered the river,
the water level on the wagon began to rise.  He held a
tight grip on the reins as they crossed.  The wagon slipped
slightly once, but they were soon on the other side.  As
soon as he could, Mulder stopped his team and stood,
watching for the boys to lead their other wagon across.
Krycek headed back into the river again to help guide the
boys across.  Mulder breathed a sigh of relief when they
were also safely across and he motioned for Danny to come
over to their wagon.

Mulder sat back down and leaned into the covering of the
wagon, saying, "Dana, I'm going to have Danny take over the
wagon.  There's been some trouble and I need to go find out
what's going on."

"What trouble?" she asked.

Mulder had her lean in and he lowered his voice, "Krycek
said there are some men missing.  I'm going to go see if I
can help."

Dana nodded and she watched him jump down and head off to
the action while Danny moved into position to move the
oxen.  "Hold on, we're going to move again," Danny said.

Dana pulled back inside and the children snuggled into her
again.  "We made it!" Samantha said.

Dana smoothed her hair and said, "Yes, we made it safely.
Papa is good with the team."

Samantha nodded her head in agreement.  "When can we get
out?"

"Soon," Dana said.

XXXXXXXXXX

Dana had settled the children down for bed when Mulder
walked into their camp, his hat in his hands.  Dana was
sitting near the fire and he came over to her, dropping
next to her.

"Did they find them?" Dana asked.

Mulder nodded.  "I'm so tired."

Dana reached up and pulled his head into her lap.  He lay
there while she ran her hands through his hair soothingly.
"Who was it?"

"John and Daniel Tanner.  The sand under Daniel's wagon
shifted and the wagon turned over.  John jumped in to save
his brother and he was swept under too.  It was stupid of
him to do so."

"He was trying to save his brother."

"Yes, but now his wife is a widow.  They've only been
married a month."

Dana leaned down and kissed him on the forehead.  "You
don't think you would have done the same thing if it was
your brother?"  Dana hesitated before adding, "Or your
sister."

He turned and looked up.  "Why did you say that?"

"What?"

"Why did you say my sister?" he asked.

"I don't know.  You know, I don't know anything about your
family.  I only know that your mother and father live in
Hannibal and I haven't met them.  You've never mentioned
any brothers or sisters.  Do you have any or were you the
only one?"

Mulder sat up abruptly and stood up, towering over her.  "I
don't want to talk about this.  The children are in bed?"
She nodded.  "I'm going to kiss them good-night," he said
and turned to head towards the wagon.

"I'm your wife and Diana knows more about you than I do."

Mulder halted in his tracks and turned back to her.
"That's because I knew her for so long."

"She said you had a sister."

Mulder walked back towards her.  "What did she tell you?"

Dana looked down to her hands, "Nothing.  She said that you
only talk about your sister with people you trust.  Do you
not trust me William?"

"Of course I do.  I just don't want to talk about her."

"Why not?  Why can't you share that with me?"

"I'm not talking about this," he said and stalked away from
her.

He didn't see Dana's head fall further.  She lifted her
knees up and rested her head there, letting the tears fall.

~~~

Chapter 8

May 30, 1852
Sunday

The company decided to lay over out of respect for the
Tanner family, giving them a day to grieve.  During the
day, they saw several companies ranging in size from sixty
to one hundred wagons.  Somehow, the companies seemed to
sense the somber mood of the Skinner company and passed
quietly by.  This was probably because they had experienced
losses as well.

Mulder hadn't come back to their wagon that night.  Dana
had begun to notice that when they fought, he conveniently
found a way to put himself on watch.  She knew he was doing
more than his share when he stayed away the whole night.
She just hoped that he was on watch and not with someone
else.  Dana immediately chastised herself for that thought.
He hadn't given her any reason to suspect that Diana was
anything other than a friend.

At noon, they held a funeral service for the Tanner sons.
Catherine Tanner, widow of John, was flanked by both of his
parents.  They held her as she sobbed.

Mulder joined Dana shortly after Reverend Byers began his
service.  "Where have you been?" Dana whispered.

Mulder reached down to pick up Caleb, who was reaching for
him.  "I was helping dig the graves."

"Mrs. Tanner isn't doing well," Dana said, looking over to
the grieving widow.

"I expect not."

"Papa, when can we go?" Caleb asked.

Mulder whispered in his ear, "Shh, Caleb."  Mulder kissed
him and Caleb laid his head on Mulder's shoulder.  He began
rocking him and Caleb soon drifted off.

After the Reverend finished, the party dispersed and a few
men stayed behind to cover the bodies.  The family walked
away to be by themselves.  The Mulders turned away and
began walking back to their camp when Diana stepped in
front of them.  They stopped and Mulder said, "Diana."

Diana reached up and touched Caleb's hair.  "Such pretty
hair," she said.  She turned to look at Dana and asked,
"His father had blond hair?"

"Yes," Mulder said.  Dana turned to him, surprised at his
answer.  "What do you want Diana?"

"Fox, I was wondering if you could stop by our camp later
today."

"Why?" he asked.

"I haven't talked with you for some time.  Of course, your
family is invited," Diana said as an afterthought.

Mulder looked at Dana and said, "I'm sorry, Diana.  I can't
today."

Diana smiled and said, "All right, another time then.  It
was nice seeing you again Dana."

Dana nodded and began walking away at a quick pace,
clutching Samantha's hand.  When Mulder had caught up to
her, he said, "Dana, wait."

She stopped and said, "I have to fix lunch for us."

"It can wait.  Why are you mad?  I told her no."

"I'm not mad about that."  Mulder bent down to look her in
the eye.  "Really," she said as she looked up at him.

"Then why were you running from me?"

"Why did you have to lie about Jack's hair color?"

"There's no reason to cause gossip."  He touched her hair
and said, "It's obvious to everyone that he didn't get your
coloring.  If you said that Jack had dark hair, it's likely
to start rumors.  Whether it is true or not, some people
will believe what they want.  I don't want you to
experience any embarrassment."

"You mean you wouldn't want yourself to be embarrassed.  I
wouldn't be embarrassed because I know the truth.  I don't
care what people say.  If they want to be petty, let them."

"Well, whether you like it or not, it would also affect our
whole family, including Caleb, Samantha, and any children
we might have.  Dana, listen I don't want to fight.  Please
do this for me."

He saw her shoulders sag with defeat.  "All right.  I don't
like it, but I'll let them believe the lie."

"Thank you," Mulder said, caressing her cheek with his
thumb.

"I have to go," she said, turning and grabbing Samantha's
hand again, heading back to their camp.  Mulder followed
more slowly with Caleb.
 

June 2, 1852
Wednesday

Dana left Jimmy with the job of cooking their meal,
trusting him to do as good of a job as she could.  She had
decided to take advantage of the break and give their
clothes a much-needed washing.  She thought this would be
the best time to wash since the hot air would dry the
clothes quickly.  Mulder was off somewhere, so she gathered
all the clothes together.

"Danny, get any clothes you and Jimmy need washing and
carry them down to the river."  Danny nodded and as she
looked at the second stack of clothes, she added, "Could
you carry these clothes as well for me?"

"Sure Dana.  I'll come back if I need to."  He turned and
went about the task she had assigned him.

"Caleb, Samantha, do you want to go to the river with me?"
Dana asked.

They both bounced up and down, yelling "Yes."

"All right, follow me then.  Dog," Dana called.   He came
running from around the other side of the wagon.

When Dana reached the river, she had the children stay up
the hill from her in some shade, not wanting them to get
too close to the river.  "Dog, stay with the children.  You
two be good and stay here, where I can see you.  Do you
hear me?"  They both nodded.

Dana walked closer to the river and was disappointed to
find that she wasn't the only one who had decided to take
advantage of the break.  Danny soon brought all of the
clothing down for her and left her to do her work.  As she
began to wash the clothes, she felt the sun beat down on
her.

In the middle of washing, she saw Diana and her sister come
down to the river with their clothes.  She nodded to Diana
who looked away without acknowledging her.  Dana shrugged
and continued her work.

She had just finished with washing the clothes, her arms
tired, when Alex Krycek appeared.  "Hello, Dana," he said.

"Mr. Krycek."  She continued gathering the clothing.

"Do you need some help?"
 
She pushed her hair off of her face with the back of her
hand and shook her head.  "No, thank you.  I can make
several trips."

"Nonsense, let me help."

Dana stopped him as he bent down.  "No, really.  My husband
wouldn't approve."

"He wouldn't approve of you receiving help?  He'd rather
you carry all of this heavy clothing yourself?  I can't
believe he would be that heartless," he said, smiling.

As Dana was about to respond, she heard a scream.  She
turned in the direction of the children and began running.
Krycek followed closely behind.

Samantha was staring at a snake, not six feet from her.
Dog was barking, stepping between them, and pushing
Samantha back.  He circled around and continuing to bark.
The snake turned in his direction, taking the focus off of
Samantha.  Dana raced up and grabbed Samantha as Krycek
pulled out his gun.  As the snake made a move to strike,
Krycek shot it.  Dog grabbed the lifeless snake and took
off with it.

Dana bent down, searching Samantha.  "Did it bite you?" she
asked, her voice full of worry.  Samantha shook her head.
Dana continued to search her until she was satisfied she
was all right.  "Where is Caleb?"  Samantha pointed to the
shade where Samantha had left him.  "Why didn't you stay
with him?"

Samantha began to cry at Dana's harsh tone.  "I wanted to
pick this flower," she sobbed, holding a crushed flower in
her hand.

Dana hugged Samantha to her.  "I'm sorry.  I was just
scared.  I didn't mean to yell, but you have to listen to
me.  You need to stay where I tell you.  You can't wander
off."

Samantha nodded into Dana's neck as she continued to cry.
She carried her over to where another camper, Mrs. Crump,
was holding Caleb.  Caleb had decided to join his sister in
crying.

"Thank you," she said to her.  "I can take him now."  Dana
gathered Caleb into her arms too and sat down with them
both, rocking them until they were quiet.  She looked up to
find Krycek hovering over her.  "Mr. Krycek, I can't thank
you enough for your help.  If you hadn't been there, I
don't know what I would have done.  I think I will take you
up on your offer of help with the wash."

Krycek nodded solemnly.  "I'm glad I was here too.  I'll go
gather some of your clothes.  You go on ahead."

Dana stood and held Samantha's hand as she carried Caleb
back to their camp.  When she reached it, she saw Danny.
"Danny, could you go down and help Mr. Krycek with our
wash?"

When he took off, Jimmy came up and asked, "What's wrong?"
looking down at the sad faces on the children.

"We're all right.  Just a little scare.  Has William come
back yet?"

"No, do you want me to go get him?"

"No.  I think I'll just put the children down for a little
nap."

"Dana, you look really red.  Are you all right?"

She lifted her hand to her face and felt the heat emitting
from it.  She nodded her head and said, "I'm fine, just a
little too much sun.  I'm just going to lay the children on
the quilt and then set the wash out to dry."

XXXXXXXXXX

As Dana finished setting the clothes out to dry, Mulder
rode into their camp at full steam.  He jumped down and
said, "I just heard what happened.  I heard Samantha got
bit by a snake."  He rushed over to his sleeping daughter
and began looking for marks.

"No, she didn't get bit.  She's just exhausted.  Who told
you?"

Mulder turned on her.  "How could you let this happen?
You're supposed to be watching her."  He turned back to his
daughter, smoothing her hair, waking her.

"She's fine.  I was watching her, but I had to do the wash.
I told her and Caleb to stay by the shade, but she got up
to explore."

"Don't blame this on her.  You're the adult."

Dana was stunned by the accusations he was tossing her way.
"I'm not blaming her.  I'm just explaining what happened.
She didn't listen to me; she went off on her own."

"She's just a child."

"I know that, but Dog was with her.  He stepped in between
her and the snake.  William, who told you?"

"Diana."  Mulder pulled Samantha into his arms and stood.
Samantha, still exhausted fell back asleep in his arms.
"Did Dog kill it?"

"Diana, that figures.  Of course she would be the one to
run off and tell you."

"She should tell me.  She told me you let my daughter get
close to a snake and it bit her."

"First of all, it didn't bite her.  Diana misinformed you
of that.  Second of all, I think of Samantha as my daughter
too."

Mulder huffed and turned away.  He walked away a few steps
before turning.  "You didn't answer my question.  Did Dog
kill the snake?"

"No," Dana said, hesitating.

"Is it dead?" he asked, as he lay Samantha back down.

"Yes."

Mulder turned to look up at her.  "Who killed it?"  She
didn't answer.  "Dana?"

She bit her upper lip before saying, "Mr. Krycek.  Diana
didn't tell you that too?"

Mulder stood abruptly.  "What in the hell was he doing
there?"

"I was finishing up with the wash and he offered to carry
it for me.  We heard Samantha scream by then."

"I told you I didn't want you near that man."

"Well if he hadn't been there, your daughter might not be
alive," she said, placing her hands on her hips, not
backing down.  "I don't care if you like him or not.  He
has always been nice to me.  I'm sure he would be to you as
well if you let him."

"Great, now I owe him.  It couldn't have been anyone else."
Mulder turned and glared at her.  "I guess I better go find
him and thank him."

"William, I'm sorry, but everything turned out all right."

Mulder threw up his hands and stalked away.

XXXXXXXXXX

Later in the evening, Dana quickly fixed the children their
plates.  The sky looked threatening and she wanted to feed
the children before it began to rain.  She was hoping for
rain so that the air might cool.  Across the way, Dana
spotted Mulder standing by a wagon, talking with Diana.

When Diana put her hand on Mulder's cheek, he looked away,
turning in Dana's direction, seeming to sense her stare.
When he saw her looking, he said his good-byes and headed
for her.

"Danny," Dana said, "could you watch the children for me?"

"Sure Dana.  Anything wrong?"

Dana glanced back at Mulder and shook her head.  "I forgot
something."  She quickly headed around the wagon and out of
sight.

Losing her appetite and having no desire to return to their
camp, she decided to take a walk.  As night began to slowly
set in, she found her way back to the river where she had
almost lost Samantha.  Dana knew that if anything had
happened to Samantha, Mulder would have blamed her.  She
was kidding herself, he already blamed her.

Sitting down by the water, she reached in, feeling the cool
water trickle through her fingers.  It felt so nice.

Dana had been feeling feverish since she started her walk
and took out her handkerchief, soaking it in the water.
She drew it back out and dabbed her face with it.  It felt
so soothing, that she put it back in the water and repeated
the process. Hearing someone walk up behind her, she turned
and jumped up, stepping back into the creek.

When she saw that it was Mulder, she said, "Go away, I want
to be alone."

"I've been looking for you.  Have you been here the whole
time?"

"No."  She moved out of the water when she realized that
she was standing in it.

"Come back and get something to eat.  You need to eat."

Dana shook her head.  "I'm not hungry."

"Dana, I'm sorry for yelling at you.  I shouldn't have."

"Did you come up with that conclusion on your own or did
Diana help you?"

"What?"

"Nothing, never mind.  I'm just tired."

"Dana," he said, reaching up to touch her face, "I
really..."  He felt her forehead.  "You're burning up.  You
said you weren't hungry.  Are you sick to your stomach?" he
asked, his voice full of concern.  She shook her head.
Mulder pulled her to him and she shivered.  "Oh God, I hope
you don't have the sickness.  Come on, you need to get back
to camp."

"I'm all right.  I was just in the sun too much."

"You're not all right.  Let's go."

XXXXXXXXXX

At their wagon, Mulder helped her up and lit their lantern,
so that he could see.  When he pulled it closer to her, he
saw the true color of her face.

"My God, you're really red.  Why didn't you cover yourself
up or stop sooner?"

"It had to be done," she said as she shivered.

"Come on, I'm going to get you out of those clothes and
under the covers.  You need to stay warm."

As Mulder began to reach for her dress, she stopped him by
pushing his hands away and said, "I can do it.  I don't
need your help."

Mulder sat back on his heels.  "All right, you get
undressed.  I'm going back to the river to get some cold
water so I can cool you down."

When he returned, Mulder ripped some rags and soaked them
in the water.  "Lie back down and I'll put this on you."
Thankfully, she was running out of steam and was resisting
him less.  He pulled up the sleeves of her gown and ran the
cool water over her arms.  Dana sighed.

They had been alone an hour when he heard Jimmy return.
Mulder stuck his head out of the canvas and said, "Jimmy,
can you and Danny keep the children tonight?"

"Sure.  What's wrong?"

"Dana's sick."

Jimmy shook his head.  "I knew it; I told her she didn't
look good this afternoon."

"She has a bad sunburn.  I'm going to have to keep her
cooled down tonight and I don't want to keep waking the
children when I go back for more water.  Here's their
bedding."

Jimmy reached up and took it.  "Just take care of her;
we'll take care of the children."

Mulder nodded and disappeared back into the wagon.

XXXXXXXXXX

The sound of thunder and the flash of lightning woke
Mulder.  He turned to Dana when he heard her moaning.
"Jack?" she called.  Mulder took a rag and pressed it onto
her head.  "Jack, I'm sorry.  Don't leave me."

"Dana, shh," he said, wiping her arms and face.

"Don't leave.  The baby's coming.  Don't leave me alone.
I'm sorry; I shouldn't have trapped you like that.  Forgive
me?"

"Shh.  I'm not Jack."

Dana opened her eyes to look at him and said, "William?"
He nodded.  Flashes of lightning lit up their wagon.   She
looked around and asked, "Where are the children?"

"Jimmy and Danny have them."  She shivered and Mulder
covered her up.  "Are you hungry?  I have some bread."

Dana shook her head.  "No, I'm just tired."

He bent down and kissed her forehead.  "Then go back to
sleep."

Mulder thought she had drifted off when he heard,
"William?"

"Yes?"

"I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"For disappointing you."

"You didn't."  Mulder let out a breath.  "I'm sorry for
yelling at you, you didn't deserve that."

"I keep disappointing you because I'm not her."

"Who?" Mulder asked.

"You know who.  Your wife."

"You're my wife."

"No, not really.  I'm a mother to our children, I'm a cook,
I'm your bed partner, but I'm not your wife.  Maybe I'll
never be."

"Dana, it's the fever talking.  You know that isn't true."

"You don't trust me; a husband should trust his wife."

"Of course I trust you."

"Then why haven't you told me about your sister?"

"Not that again."

"It's important to me that you tell me."

"Why?"

"Because, it's a part of you that I know nothing about.  I
know nothing about your family."

Mulder sighed and rested his head on the side of the wagon.
"We were in the woods playing and I lost her.  We never
found her.  End of story."

"For such a big secret, that's a short explanation."

"It's not a secret."

"You've made it into one."

"Damn it.  Do you know you exasperate me sometimes?"

"Tell me please."  He was silent.  "William, I won't ask
again.  You know I want to know.  Please tell me."

He bumped the back of his head on the wagon a few times
before he hung his head in defeat.  When he looked back up
at her, he began his story.  "All right.  I was twelve and
Samantha was eight.  We were playing in the woods.
Samantha had begged to come with me, so rather than listen
to her whine, I gave in.  We played her favorite game,
hide-and-seek, for a while.  She was hiding when I came
upon a cave.  It was too interesting to pass up.  I had
never seen it before.  Being a typical young boy, it was
too irresistible not to explore.  I forgot about Samantha
as I crawled in.  The light filtered in enough for me to
see the large cavern.  I must have been in there an hour or
so when I remembered that I had left her outside.  I rushed
to the entrance and called for her to come out of her
hiding place, but she didn't.  So I began searching for
her, becoming more desperate as time passed.  Finally, I
realized I couldn't find her myself, but I was too afraid
to go back home.  I was sure my parents were going to kill
me."

"When did you return home?"

"At night.  They were already looking for us.  When they
found me, they were thrilled.  They didn't realize that I
was hiding from them and only Samantha was lost.  They
asked me where Samantha was and I said I didn't know.  They
thought that once they found me, they would find her.  When
my father found out the truth...that I had lost her...
Well he never forgave me."

"After so much time, I'm sure he has."

"No.  I can see it in his face when I look at him.  He
never told my mother the truth though.  I was surprised at
that."

"You never found her at all?"

"No, she just disappeared."

She was silent for a while and Mulder thought she had
drifted back to sleep.  "Why did you name your daughter
Samantha?"

"I didn't want to, that was Penny's idea."

"It was a nice tribute to your sister, don't you think?"

"I guess so."  Mulder reached out and felt her forehead.
"You're feeling cooler.  Do you feel better?"

"Yes, a little."

"I think you should ride in the wagon tomorrow and rest.
You can have the children in here with you."

She nodded and pulled him down beside her.  "You rest too.
Thank you for taking care of me."

Mulder smiled and said, "That's what a husband does.  They
take care of their wife."

Dana shook her head.  "Not all husbands do."

"And you are my wife, in every aspect."  When she didn't
answer, he said, "Dana, did you hear me?"  He heard her
soft snore as her answer.  He hadn't expected this marriage
to be this complicated.  He thought it would be easy, like
it had been with Penny.  Penny had lived for him, eager to
please him.  If he asked her to do something, she did it.
She never contradicted him.  Pulling her closer, his last
thoughts before he drifted off were of Dana.
 

June 9, 1852
Wednesday

The company passed Ash Hollow in the afternoon.  Getting
there was complicated.  After traveling on virtually flat
land, they encountered a steep hill.  It took them a while
before they were able to get all of them down.  When they
arrived at the bottom though, they were rewarded with green
trees, the first in a long time.  Also, there were roses
and jasmine that created a pleasant fragrance.  The spring
was pleasingly cold and thirst questioning.

They had a hard time leaving this wonderful place, but they
decided to push on until they reached a creek.  The water
in the creek that they found was cool, but not very deep,
less than half of a foot in places.

The Skinners invited the Mulder family to join them for
dinner that evening.  Afterwards, the children played
quietly while the adults relaxed.

"How do you think we're doing?" Mulder asked Skinner.  "Do
you think we're making good time?"

"About as well as can be expected," Skinner answered.

Mulder looked over to where Sharon and Dana were talking
while they sewed some garments.  "How is Sharon doing?"

"I think she's doing well.  At least there will be plenty
of women who can help with the birth.  She'll be fine; she
hasn't ever lost a child."  Skinner looked up suddenly and
said, "I'm sorry Mulder.  I wasn't thinking."

"It's all right," Mulder said.  "I'm happy for you both."

Skinner smiled and said, "Maybe you'll soon be as happy as
we are."

"Maybe."

The men both turned to watch their wives.  Dana laughed
suddenly and Mulder's heart lightened a bit.  He enjoyed
hearing her laugh and wished she did it more.

Dana looked over at the men and said to Sharon, "What do
you think they're talking about?"

Sharon shook her head.  "No telling."

Dana paused before she continued.  "Sharon, are you afraid?
I mean about the baby?"

Sharon smiled and patted Dana's hand.  "No.  These aren't
the best conditions, but I think I'll be fine.  Besides,
you'll be there."

Dana nodded.  "I told William that if we have a child, he
might have to deliver it.  He hadn't thought about that.  I
think I scared him," she said laughing.

"Well hopefully, we'll be neighbors and I can be there for
you."

"I hope so too."

"Dana," Mulder said.

She stopped sewing and looked up.  "Yes?"

"I think it's time we go back.  I'm going to get the
children."  He turned away from her and went in search of
them.

"Well," Dana said to Sharon, "I guess it's time to leave.
Thanks so much for dinner."

"You're welcome," Sharon said.

"When it's closer to your time, we'll make sure you come to
our camp.  You shouldn't be preparing food."

"I'll be fine.  Besides, I have the girls."

Dana stood, looking in the direction of the children, "Yes,
I'm sure they're a help.  Our children really love them."
Mulder was having trouble gathering the children, so Dana
decided to head over towards him.  "Good-night Sharon,
Walter," she said as she left.

When she came to Mulder, she heard Samantha fussing.  "But
Papa, I don't want to go yet.  We're having fun," she was
saying.

"Samantha Mulder, we're leaving now.  Not another word.
Caleb, come here," Mulder commanded.

Caleb trotted over to Mulder and he picked him up.  "Need
help?" Dana asked.  Mulder shook his head, turned and
headed back to their camp.  Samantha stayed rooted in her
place, while Caleb stretched his arms toward her and called
"Sam."  Dana figured that Mulder knew what was best, so she
turned and followed him.  She glanced over her shoulder and
saw that it had indeed worked.  Samantha was following them
at a short distance.
 
When they reached their wagon, Mulder swung Caleb up and
turned to lift Samantha as well.  When she went inside, he
said to Dana, "I wish she would stop being so stubborn.  I
suppose this is my fault.  If I hadn't let my parents raise
her, we wouldn't have to be dealing with this."

Dana shook her head.  "You don't know that.  It could be
that she would have been the same."

"Are you going to get them ready or should I?"

"I'll do it.  I'm tired myself."
 
"Good, because I want to check with Danny first before I
turn in.  You'll be all right?"

"Yes, go on," Dana said.  Mulder leaned down, kissed her on
the forehead, before heading off.

XXXXXXXXXX

After talking to Danny, Mulder headed back to his wagon,
but halted in his tracks.  He found Krycek just ahead of
him.  Krycek hadn't seen him, so he stayed back, wondering
what he was doing.  It didn't take long for Mulder to
figure it out.

Looking in the same direction as Krycek, Mulder saw that he
was looking at his own wagon, where his children and wife
were.  Dana had placed the lamp in a position that cast her
shadow.  He soon realized that Dana was undressing and
Krycek had a perfect view of everything that she was doing.

Mulder angrily stalked towards Krycek.  Surprised to hear
footsteps, Krycek looked back to see Mulder approaching.
He smiled, tipped his hat and walked quickly away.  Mulder
figured that it wasn't worth pursing him at this point.
Instead, he headed for his wife.

When Mulder climbed into his wagon, he saw the children
fast asleep.  He was thankful that they both fell asleep
quickly and were heavy sleepers.

"Dana," he hissed.

She turned around, dressed in her gown.  "What?"

"What the hell do you think you're doing?"

"What do you mean?" she asked with wide eyes.

"People can see you undress.  What are you thinking?" he
asked, pointing to her shadow.

Dana turned to where he was pointing and said, "Oh, I
didn't know.  I'm sorry."

"Well, I think you only had one admirer."

"What do you mean?"

"Krycek was watching you.  He doesn't need any more
encouragement from you."

"William, I didn't mean to.  I didn't know.  I guess I was
just too tired to notice."

"Extinguish the light," he said.

Dana reached over and did as he said.  "Please don't be
angry.  I didn't know anyone could see."

Mulder sighed and said, "It's all right.  Just be more
careful."

"Did you say anything to Mr. Krycek?"

"I didn't get a chance, he was too busy fleeing."  Dana
crawled under the covers and Mulder took off his boots,
crawling under the covers and pulling her close to him.
"I'm on watch in a few hours, so I just want to sleep for a
bit."
 

June 14, 1852
Monday

Dana was relaxing with the children by their wagon that
evening; Danny was off with Mulder somewhere and Jimmy
stayed to keep her company.

"I can't believe how big Chimney Rock is.  It's amazing
we've been able to see it for miles," Dana said.

"Danny talked about going to see it, but I think Mulder
changed his mind.  He told him he needed to tend to his
work."

"I think he should go if he wants to."

They were enjoying the cool breeze after a light shower in
the afternoon.  "I hear the family of Mulder's friend has
sickness," Jimmy said.  "Did you hear?"

"Caleb, come here," Dana called to her son.  Caleb crawled
into her lap and Dana began brushing his hair.  "No, who's
sick?"

"Diana's brother-in-law, Martin Baxter.  Mulder saw him
this morning and he said he looked fine, but Diana said he
was in pain by noon.  Mark Benson said his skin was
wrinkled and he was blue.  If he dies, that will make nine
people who have died."

Dana set Caleb down when she finished combing his hair and
called Samantha to her.  She sat Samantha on her lap.  As
she undid her braids, she asked, "So, has William been to
see them?  I wouldn't want him to bring it back to us."

"There are a couple of other people sick as well."

"Ow," said Samantha, grabbing her hair.

"Sorry."  Dana moved Samantha a little bit away from her to
get a better angle to brush her hair.  "So it's serious?"

"They don't think Baxter will live past tonight."

"That's a shame.  You didn't say if William had been
there."

"Dana, honestly I don't know."

"We seem to pass more graves each day."

Jimmy nodded in agreement.  "I just keep praying that our
family will be all right."

"Amen," Dana said.

"Do you mind if I go for a walk?" Jimmy asked.

"No go ahead."  Jimmy nodded and disappeared into the
night.  "There," she said to Samantha.  "You're all
finished.  You can get down now.  Stay close, it will be
bedtime soon."

When Dana was alone, she said a silent prayer for her
family, the company, and especially Martin Baxter.
 

June 15, 1852
Tuesday

Mulder hadn't returned that night, but he showed up just
before they were about to leave.  He walked with Jimmy,
deep in conversation.

Dana walked up behind them and asked, "Where have you
been?"

Mulder turned around, and then said to Jimmy, "Go ahead.
I'll be there shortly."  When Jimmy left, he said, "I was
with Diana's family."

"Why, is her brother-in-law worse?"

"You heard about him?"  Dana nodded.  He continued, "I was
helping bury him."

"He died."

"Yes.  Sarah didn't want to have a lot of people around, so
Skinner and I dug his grave and Victor went to get Reverend
Byers so that he could say some words.  It was just the
family."

"You were there too?"

"Yes.  Sarah is taking it hard.  I've offered to drive for
them until we get to Fort Laramie.  I'm hoping to hire
someone to drive for them when we get there."

"So you'll be with Diana."

"It's not like that Dana.  I'm just doing this until we can
find someone."

"But you'll be spending time with her.  Why can't someone
else do it?"

"Dana, don't be petty.  Her brother-in-law just died."

"I'm not being petty.  I just can't help but think that you
must be making Diana very happy."

"Enough," Mulder said, turning away.

Dana reached for him and said, "Wait, I'm sorry.  Did you
eat?"

Mulder shook his head.  "I'm not hungry.  I have to go."
Dana watched him leave before turning back to finish
packing.
 

June 17, 1852
Thursday

They crossed the river at Fort Laramie, the first sign of
civilization in many weeks.  One family had decided to turn
back, but rest of their party was going to push on.

Some of the emigrants wanted to sell their excess supplies,
but the trader wasn't buying.  Most didn't need to buy
anything and those who did resisted because the prices were
very high.  However, it had a reliable post office.  Mulder
encouraged Dana to write her brother to let him know that
she had reached the fort safely.  He had already written
another to his parents.
 

Dana's letter to her brother:

Dear brother and family,

I hope all is well with you and yours.  It has been an
interesting journey so far.  William says we have come one
third of the way.  I think what I miss most is the trees in
Missouri.  We can go for miles without ever seeing a tree.

We have seen relatively few Indians.  They have stayed away
from us and we have stayed away from them.

We have seen many interesting sights, one of them being
Chimney Rock.  We were able to see this wonder for a couple
of days.  It looks like a domed building with a huge
chimneystack.

For the most part, we have been able to find water and
grass.   We have had some frightening storms pass and we
have seen a couple of cyclones in the distance.
Fortunately, they did not head for us.

We see more graves every day and have had sickness in our
company.  Luckily, our family has been healthy for the most
part.

I know you were angry with me for what I did, but I hope
you have forgiven me.  I am truly happy with William and
our children.  He is a good man.  Caleb already considers
William his Papa.  He loves William and I believe William
loves him.  I know that his daughter has found a place in
my heart.

I did not see a future with your friend, but I do see a
future with William.  I am glad that Walter Skinner brought
him into my life.

I will try to write another time and hope that once we are
settled, you will write me.

Your sister,

Dana
 

Dana sat on the porch of the store and looked over her
letter for the third time.  She could do no better.  The
porch was dirty and she dusted herself off as she stood.
Mulder had taken the children inside to look for some
treats.  He said most of the store's prices were very high
and he intended only to get something for the children.

When Dana entered the store, she found other emigrants
milling around.  Mulder and the children were looking over
the candy.  Holding both children in his arms, Mulder
encouraged them to point out to the storeowner what they
wanted.  The owner would look up at Mulder as he nodded his
head 'yes' or shook his head 'no' to let the owner know
which candy was all right to wrap up.

Dana walked up behind him and smiled as she put her hand on
his back.  "You're spoiling them."

Mulder looked down at her.  "They deserve it.  They've been
good so far."  Samantha and Caleb nodded their head in
agreement and then went back to looking at the candy.  He
looked down at her letter.  "Did you finish?"

"Yes."

Mulder set the children down and took the letter from her.
He nodded and said to the shop owner, "That's enough."  To
his wife, "Dana, take the children back outside and I'll
meet you in a moment."

When Dana went outside, holding the children's hands, she
ran into Krycek.  "Mrs. Mulder," he said, tipping his hat.

"Good afternoon," Dana said.

"You're not buying anything here are you?  The owner is a
thief."

Dana laughed and said, "Just candy for the children.  My
husband is indulging them."

Krycek looked back at the store and then bent down to
Samantha.  "Candy, huh?" he asked Samantha.  She nodded her
head and moved closer to Dana.  "Did you leave any for me?"
Samantha nodded her head again.

He looked up at Dana.  "Doesn't talk much, does she?"

"She's just shy around strangers."  Dana rubbed Samantha's
head and then said to Krycek, "My husband says that we
still have a long way ahead."

"Yes, that's true, but we'll be all right."

Skinner came up behind Krycek and said, "Dana, Sharon was
looking for you.  Do you think that you could go to her?"

"Yes, I'll go as soon as William comes out of the shop."

"Krycek, can I speak to you?"

Skinner turned and walked away before Krycek could answer.
"I guess I'd better go," Krycek said.  "It was nice seeing
you again Mrs. Mulder."

"Good-bye."

XXXXXXXXXX

Mulder walked Dana to the Skinner's wagon before leaving
with the children for their own wagon.  She called out to
Sharon who peaked through the opening of the canvas
covering the wagon.

"Dana, I want to go trade with the squaws.  Are you
interested?"

Dana shook her head.  "I don't think William would want me
to."

"Come on.  I understand we might be able to make some good
trades.  Some of the other women already have."

"Well, all right.  I'll have to go back to my wagon though.
What are you trading?"

"The women said they wanted bread and meat.  We can go by
your wagon on the way."

Sharon handed a bag to Dana and crawled out of the wagon
awkwardly.  She laughed and said, "This is getting harder
and harder for me to do.  I imagine Walter will have to
lift me up and down soon."

"You look well," Dana said as they headed back for her
wagon.  "Remember, if you need me, I'm here for you."

"Yes, I remember.  Thank you."

They soon reached her wagon where Mulder was handing out
the candy to the children, who were being very careful not
to drop it.  Dog was sitting close by just in case.

Mulder looked up when the women approached.  "William,
Sharon has asked me to go trade.  May I?"

He looked over to Sharon and asked, "Why?  We don't need
anything."

Sharon said, "It's safe Fox.  Other women have come away
with some beautiful beads.  Don't you think Dana deserves
that?"

"Of course, but what are you going to trade?"

"The women said that they want bread and meat," Sharon
explained.  "Can you spare some?"

"We can William.  I want to go."

"All right, just not too much."  He bent back down to the
children.  "You go ahead.  I'll stay with the children
until you get back."

The women headed off and came back within an hour.  Sharon
waved good-bye to Dana.

Mulder was playing with the children when Dana walked up to
him.  "Did you find someone?" she asked.

"Who?"

"A man to drive the Baxter wagon."

"Oh, yes I did.  He's a young man left behind from another
company because he was ill.  He's better now and plans to
go to California."

"Not to Oregon?"

"No, it was the best I could do.  There wasn't anyone
else."

Mulder nodded in the direction of what Dana was holding.
"So, what did you get?" he asked.  She showed him moccasins
in various sizes for them all.  Then, she pulled open a
leather bag and pulled out a beautiful necklace made of
colored beads.  She handed it to Mulder.

He looked it over before handing it back to her.  "It's
beautiful.  Do you plan to wear it?"

"No, not while we're on the trail.  It's too nice."  She
walked over towards Samantha and reached into her bag
again.  She pulled out a smaller necklace.  "Samantha, come
here.  See what I got for you."

Samantha ran to Dana and reached up.  "What did you get
me?"

"Turn around," she said.  She bent down after Samantha
turned and said, "Close your eyes."  After Dana looked
around to make sure that she did, she put the necklace over
her head.  "Okay, open your eyes."

Samantha opened them and looked down.  She opened her mouth
in awe and then looked up.  "Mama, it's pretty."  She
carefully ran her fingers over the beads.  She ran over to
Mulder and said, "Look Papa."

Mulder bent down and lifted the necklace in his hands.
"Yes, it's beautiful."  He looked up at Dana and mouthed,
"Thank you."

She shook her head.  "I wanted to do it...for our
daughter."

Mulder nodded his head and said to Samantha.  "Do you want
to wear it or keep it put up safe like Mama?"

Samantha looked at Dana and walked over to her.  She lifted
it from her neck and said, "Keep it safe with yours."  She
paused and said, "Can I wear it later if I want to?"  Dana
nodded and Samantha handed it over to her.  She then ran
off to look for Dog.

Dana walked over to Mulder and he put his arms around her.
"Did you send the letters?" she asked.

"Yes.  Do you think he's forgiven you yet?"

She looked up at him.  "Did you read my letter?"

Mulder shook his head.  "I just know that what happened has
been weighing heavily on you."

"Yes," Dana said.  She turned more fully into Mulder and he
closed his arms around her, making her feel safe.  "I don't
regret my decision you know."

Mulder leaned her back and took her face in his hands.  He
slowly rubbed his thumbs along her jaw.  "And I don't
regret mine."  He leaned down and kissed her lightly on the
lips.

~~~

Chapter 9

June 20, 1852
Sunday

"How about a picnic today since we're not traveling?"
Mulder asked Dana as they sat around the fire with the
children.

"Really?"

Mulder smiled at her and said, "I thought we could spend
some time together."

"Just us?"

"Us and the children.  How does that sound?"

Dana smiled back, elated.  "Where are we going?"

"There's a natural bridge about a mile south of here.  I
thought it would be a nice walk."

"Well, I better cook some things to take then," she said,
getting up and heading for their second wagon to get some
food.

Several hours later, they arrived at the natural bridge.
In order to reach the bridge, they had to wind their way
down to a flat area next to a small stream.   They
discovered a couple of other families who had the same
idea.  Mulder spread a blanket under a tree close to the
river.  Dana sat down, spreading the skirt of her dress
around her.

"This is amazing," she said, placing the food in front of
her.  Caleb and Samantha crawled onto the blanket, encasing
her.

"Yah.  I'm glad the children are able to see things like
this."

"Here Samantha," Dana said, handing her a plate.  "Caleb,"
she said, turning to her son.

"Just think how long it took the river to cut through all
of that rock," he said as he sat down across from her.

"It's something," she agreed as she handed him his plate.

"How about we climb on top?"

"No thank you."

"Well, I may later."

They ate their meal silently, watching the water roll
through, passing underneath the natural bridge that rose
about twenty feet and expanded across the water about
thirty feet.  When the children finished eating, Samantha
got up and headed for the stream.  Caleb moved to follow
her and Mulder grabbed his shirt, "Oh no you don't.
Samantha, come back here," he commanded.

She stopped and looked over her shoulder, but chose to
ignore him.  Mulder set his plate down, stood up, and
lifted Caleb into his arms.  "Samantha," he said more
firmly, "I said come here."

"I'm just looking," she said.

Mulder began to make his way to Samantha when Dana said,
"Samantha, come here."  She turned back away from the river
and ran to Dana, throwing herself into Dana's lap and
hugging her.  Dana looked over at Mulder, seeing his
frustrated look.

"Samantha," she said.  "Apologize to Papa."  Samantha shook
her head and buried her face into Dana's neck.

"Ummm," Caleb said, his eyes wide.  He may only be two and
a half, but he knew Samantha was in trouble.

Mulder moved back towards Dana and set Caleb down on the
blanket.  He reached to take Samantha, but she held onto
Dana when he began to pull her away.  "Samantha, let go."

"No," she cried.

"William, stop."

He stared at Dana for a moment and then said, "No, she
can't defy me like that."

Dana shook her head and said, "Let me talk to her."  He
paused before agreeing and backed away.  "Stay here with
Caleb.  We're just going to walk down to the river.
Samantha, let's go.  You and I are going to take a walk,
okay?"

Samantha nodded her head and stood.  Dana moved to follow
her and grabbed her hand, leading her away.  "We'll be
back," she told Mulder.

Dana guided her away from Mulder and Caleb, but made sure
that they were still in sight.  "How about we sit down
here?" she asked Samantha.

"Okay."

Pulling her knees to her when she sat down, Dana asked,
"Samantha, what's wrong?"  Samantha shrugged her shoulders
and pulled in her knees to mimic Dana.

"Why didn't you listen to Papa?"  Again, Samantha just
shrugged her shoulders.  "All right.  We can just sit here
and watch the water."

Gazing out towards the stream, Samantha suddenly said,
"It's not fair."

Dana looked back to her.  "What's not?"

"Papa never is with us anymore.  He's always with that
woman and her girls."

"You mean Mrs. Tipton and her nieces?"  Samantha nodded.
"He's just helping out his friend."

"I miss him," she said, crying and moving into Dana's arms.

Dana hugged her and said, "Samantha, I'm sure Papa misses
you too, but he doesn't know if he can trust their driver
yet.  He'll be back with us again."

"When?" she sighed, sniffling.

"I hope soon."  Dana wiped the tears from Samantha's face
and said, "You know, I miss him too.  I'm sure Caleb does
as well.  We just have to help Papa by letting him do this
for his friend."

"I don't like it," Samantha said.

"I know, me neither," Dana confided.  "You ready to go
apologize to Papa now?"  Samantha nodded and Dana stood and
pulled her to her feet.  "Okay, let's go back."

When they returned to the blanket, Mulder was tossing
Caleb, making him giggle.  "Hey," he said to them.  "Did
you talk?"

Dana nodded and said, "She has something to say to you."
She nudged Samantha.

"I'm sorry Papa."

Mulder put Caleb down and moved to her, crouching down in
front of her.  "You'll listen to me from now on, right?"
She nodded and he pulled her into his arms, kissing her.
"Do you want to go down to the water now?"

"Huh uh, I'm tired."

Mulder smiled and said, "Okay.  How about you and Caleb
take a nap before we walk back?"

"Okay," she said, rubbing her eyes.

Mulder led her over to the blanket and Samantha crawled
over next to Caleb, who was already settling in.  She
snuggled up next to him and Dana moved to sit next to them
both.  She looked up at Mulder and said, "Why don't you go
ahead and crawl up there if you're going to.  I'll stay
here with them."

He nodded and soon disappeared out of sight.  After about
ten minutes, he appeared above the bridge.  He waved at her
and she waved back.  She felt her heart skip a beat when he
got a little too close to the edge, but relaxed when he
moved back and headed in the direction he came.

When he returned to her, she asked, "Did you enjoy
yourself?"

He nodded and plopped down next to her.  He whispered,
"So?"

"Yes?" she whispered back.

"Why is she upset with me?"

"She said she missed you."  Dana reached down and caressed
Samantha's cheek.  "I know how she feels."

"You know I can't help that."

"I know, but she's just a little girl.  You can't expect
her to really understand.  I also think she's a little
jealous."

"Of who?"

"Of your friend's nieces."

"Her name is Diana," he said.  "It won't hurt for you to
say her name."

"Says you," she said.

Mulder just shook his head.  "Well, she apologized.  Maybe
what you said made sense to her."

"Maybe."

"You ready to head back?"  She looked down at the children
and he said, "I can carry them both."

"They may be a little grumpy if you wake them now."

"They'll be okay," he said, shaking both of the children's
legs to wake them.

Caleb pulled his leg up and rolled over.  Samantha woke up
though and Dana was right.  She wasn't too happy.  "Go
away, Papa.  I'm tired."

Mulder laughed and said, "Come on, we're going back.  I'll
carry you."

"Okay," she said.  Mulder pulled her up and stood her on
her feet.

Dana reached down and lifted Caleb into her arms while
Mulder lifted Samantha onto his shoulders.  Samantha
reached down and put her hands under Mulder's chin to hold
on.

"I think I should carry him," Dana said.

"It's okay.  I can carry them both."  When she handed Caleb
to him, he placed Caleb on his hip.  Dana turned back to
the blanket and began gathering everything as Mulder set
off, back towards camp.
 

June 29, 1852
Tuesday

It had been about a week and a half since they left Fort
Laramie.  For the most part, they had been able to find
water and grass, but they had to make sure that their
cattle stayed away from poisonous water.  A few of the
emigrants had lost oxen, but so far, they had been lucky
and hadn't lost any of their own livestock.

They traveled only a short time that day and decided to
camp not far from Independence Rock where there was plenty
of grass, allowing the livestock to graze.  Some of their
party decided to visit the rock.  Many emigrants left their
names carved into it and some left messages for loved ones
who might follow.

"The boys and I have done something we want you to see.
They're still there, waiting for us," Mulder said after
disappearing for a couple of hours.

"What do you want me to see?" Dana asked.

"We've carved our names into the rock."  Mulder bent down
to carry Caleb.  "Come on Samantha, I want you to see this
too," he said, heading back to the rock.

Dana had no choice but to follow.  When they arrived at the
large, long, and fairly smooth rock outcrop, they found
others milling around.  Dana noticed others who were higher
and was glad when Mulder led them around the base of the
rock.

"There are other names higher," Mulder told her.  "Jimmy,
Danny, and I climbed up on the top."

Dana stopped for a moment and looked up.  "William, you
didn't," she admonished.

He smiled and said, "Sure we did.  It was really windy up
there though.  Thought I was going to lose my footing for a
moment."

"Don't go up there again," she begged.

He began walking with the children again and said over his
shoulder, "All right.  I guess I'm glad you weren't here
the first time or you would have tried to stop us."

"Not that you would have listened," she called back.

Mulder stopped them in front of some writing and pulled
Dana in front of him, placing his left hand on her hip.
With his right hand, he pointed to where he had chiseled
out their names.

Dana read them aloud.  "Fox, Dana, Samantha and Caleb
Mulder.  June 1852."

Mulder motioned for the children to come over to them.  He
picked them up and pointed to where their names were.  "I
hope you don't mind that I wrote Caleb's last name as
mine."

Dana looked up at him with tears in her eyes and shook her
head.  "No, it's perfect.  Thank you."

"We helped," Danny said, wiping the sweat from his
forehead.  "What do you think of ours?"

"It's great," Dana said as she moved to see theirs better.
"I wonder how many names there are."

"Too many to count," Mulder said.  "Hundreds or thousands I
would guess."

They spent another hour reading other names before they
turned back.

XXXXXXXXXX

Dana had finished feeding the children when Mulder and the
boys rode up.  Mulder jumped down and said, "Come on, I
want to show you something."

"Something else?  Aren't you hungry?" Dana asked.

"Come on, I want you to see Devil's Gate.  Jimmy and Danny
are going to stay with the children.  We've already been to
see it and I don't think the children should go."

"Fox, I'm ready," Diana said.

"If the children shouldn't go, maybe we shouldn't go
either," Dana said, her eyes falling briefly on Diana,
clearly unhappy that this woman was at their camp.

"Diana," he said, ignoring Dana, "you can ride Danny's
horse.  You can still ride can't you?"

Diana smiled at him.  "Of course.  It will be just like
riding when we were young," she said, then looked at Dana
and frowned.  "Well almost."

Danny brought his horse up to them and held the reins.  "Be
careful with my horse, Mrs. Tipton," he said.

"You have nothing to worry about," Mulder said, coming up
behind Diana.  "She's an excellent rider."  He bent down
and she put her foot in his hand.  He lifted her with ease
and she settled on the horse, sitting astride.  Jimmy
handed her the reins and he turned to move Mulder's horse
into position.

"Okay," Mulder said.  "Your turn now."

Dana backed away from him.  "Oh no, I'm not riding that
horse."

Mulder reached for her, but she continued to step away from
him.  "Come on Dana, it's much quicker if we ride.  I want
to get back before dark."

She folded her arms and said, "I can walk, I do it every
day."

"Fine," he said and turned from her.  She relaxed until he
pounced on her, threw her over his shoulder, and walked
back to his horse.

"Put me down," she said, kicking.  Mulder raised his hand
and lowered it down quickly on her backside.  "Ow," she
said, reaching back to where he had offended her.

"Quiet down.  You're causing people to look."

Dana pushed her hands against his back, leaned up, and was
horrified to find that people were indeed looking.  She
covered her face with her hands and groaned.

Mulder stopped by his horse and set her down.  He lifted
her up and she settled awkwardly onto the horse with both
of her feet to one side.  Mulder followed her up quickly as
she tried to pull her dress back down to cover her legs.
He looked down and smirked, but said nothing.  Instead, he
reached down to help her.  He kicked his horse and they
took off, with Diana quickly coming beside them.

XXXXXXXXXX

When they arrived at their destination, Mulder pulled up on
the reins and stopped.  He jumped down from his horse and
left Dana sitting high.  He walked over to Diana and helped
her down.  Dana was a little put out with Mulder for
leaving her on the horse while he walked with Diana, but
she soon ignored them and looked around as Mulder led his
horse.  People were coming and going in both directions.

Dana had been so engrossed in watching the people, that she
didn't hear Mulder call her name.  She was unaware of him
until she felt his hand close over her ankle and shake it.

When she looked down, she saw Diana smiling at her,
standing closer to her husband than she liked.  Dana
frowned and looked at Mulder.  "...calling you.  Weren't
you listening?"  She shook her head.  "Well?"

"Well what?" she asked, confused.

"Do you want to get down?"

"Oh," she said.  "Yes, I'm sorry."  Diana was forced to
step back as Mulder reached up and grabbed her waist.  He
gently lifted her down to the ground.

They left the horses at the bottom.  Grabbing Dana's hand,
Mulder pulled her along.  "Come on, we need to climb."

"Do we have to?" she asked.

Mulder nodded and put his hand around her waist to support
her.   He looked over his shoulder and said, "Diana, are
you all right?"

"Yes," she called back.  "I'm right behind you; I can't
wait to see it."

Mulder nodded and continued climbing.  Soon they reached
the top.  The ledge was rounded and rough in different
places so they had to be careful of their footing.  There
were others who had ventured as well, but it wasn't as
crowded as when Mulder had been there with Danny and Jimmy.
In fact, most people were heading back to camp.

"I don't want to go any closer," Dana said.

"Come on," Mulder said.  "We've come this far.  Just get
close and you can see down."

Dana shook her head.

Mulder shrugged and moved closer to the edge, looking down.
Diana followed and he said "Wow," to her.  "It's still
impressive."

Diana nodded.  "Fox, let's sit down."  Mulder bent down to
sit and he lifted his hand to help her after he was
comfortable.  She grabbed it and lowered herself to sit on
his right side.

When Diana didn't seem to release his hand, Dana edged
closer to them.  She peered over Mulder's shoulder and saw
that Diana was still holding on, but in doing so, Dana
caught a glimpse of what they saw and stepped back.
Looking down made her nervous.  It looked so far down.

Gathering her strength, she edged closer to Mulder again
and she closed her eyes as she put her hand on his
shoulder.  When she felt his hand over hers, she opened her
eyes to find him looking up at her.  "Change your mind?" he
asked.

She nodded and saw him release Diana's hand in order help
her sit down.  When she sat, she buried her face against
his arm, not wanting to look.  She heard him laugh, but he
gathered her closer, putting his arm around her back and
smoothing her hair with his other hand.

"Come on Dana, look down.  This is what we came to see."

"Fox, don't push her.  If she's too afraid to look, don't
force her."

Dana opened her eyes to see a challenge in Diana's eyes.
She lifted her head from Mulder's shoulder and looked into
his eyes.

"All right, but make sure you hold on to me."

"Always," Mulder said, bending down to kiss her forehead.

Dana took a deep breath and peered over the edge.  "Oh my
gosh," she said looking down into the chasm and seeing the
Sweetwater river run over and around the rocks in the
narrow canyon.  "We are really high."

"Now you can see why we have to go around this."

She nodded and said, "I wonder why the river didn't go
around.  Why would it go through this way?"

"I'm not sure," Mulder said.

Diana began to feel left out of the conversation.  "Fox,
don't you think we should be getting back?"

"All right."  Mulder scooted back to stand and Dana felt
unstable without his support.  She felt her breath speed up
as he backed away.

She looked over and saw Diana watching her.  Before Dana
could do anything, Diana said, "Fox, help me up please."
As he bent down to help her, she gripped his hands.  "Thank
you," she said, rising.  As he moved to help Dana, she held
on and whispered, "Fox, did you ask her?"

"Huh?" he asked, not noticing Dana begin to panic.

Diana smiled and said, "About tonight."

"Oh, no.  Not yet."

"William," Dana finally said, unable to stand being so
close to the edge by herself.

He heard the fear in her voice, turned his back to Diana,
and reached down, pulling her back and to her feet.  "I'm
sorry.  Were you afraid?"

She threw herself into his arms and nodded.  "Don't leave
me like that again.  Please."

"I'm sorry, I won't," he said, holding her and rubbing her
back.  As he began to move them back down the hill, he
heard Diana clear her throat and said, "Dana, I was
wondering if you wouldn't mind if Diana joining us for
supper tonight."

As Dana looked up at him, she backed away from him and
placed her hands on her hips.  The nerve of the man.  He
knew she wouldn't be rude if he invited Diana in front of
her.  Dana gritted her teeth and said, "No, that's fine."
With that, she spun around and marched down the hill much
faster than she had come up.

"Dana slow down," she heard him call behind her.  "Dana,"
he yelled louder.  She knew he was getting closer when she
heard, "Damn it Dana, stop.  You're going to fall down if
you're not careful."

She turned to see if he was close and as she did, she
realized her mistake.  She saw him reach out for her and
miss as she lost her footing and fell on her side and then
rolled down about five yards.  When she stopped, she found
Mulder above her, concern written on his face.

"Are you hurt?" he asked.

Was he crazy?  Of course she was hurt with a fall like
that.  He ran his hands over her body, looking for any
breaks.  "Ow," she said when he tried to sit her up.

"Where does it hurt?" he asked.

Diana appeared over his shoulder and said, "That was stupid
Dana."

"Stay out of this Diana."  He ran his hand over Dana's
back.  "Did you hurt your back?"

"No, my hip feels sore.  And I think my left ankle."

"Fox, if she hadn't been running like a fool down this
hill, she wouldn't have hurt herself."

He turned to her and said, "Diana, go to the horses.  We'll
be down in a minute."

"Fox..."

"I mean it.  Go wait by the horses.  When we get to the
bottom, bring the horses over."

"Fine," she said, moving away from them.  Before she went
far she said, "See Dana, this is how you're supposed to go
down.  Slowly and carefully."

"Diana," Mulder called, "just go."  He turned back to Dana
and said, "Let's see if you can get up."
 
When he had her standing, she tried to take a step, but it
hurt too much and she leaned into him.  She felt tears form
in her eyes and she said, "I'm sorry.  I should have been
more careful."

"Yes.  Yes, you should have been.  We don't have a doctor
and you can't afford to get hurt or sick.  Here, sit back
down.  I want to examine your ankle."

She leaned back as he lifted her foot and she winced when
he grabbed her ankle.  "Can you move it?"  She moved her
foot and took in a sharp breath to keep from crying out.
"Well, it doesn't look like it's broken, but I think you
should stay off of it for a while.  I'm going to take off
your shoe now in case your ankle swells."  He undid the
hooks on her shoe and lifted her foot carefully out of the
shoe.  "I think it would be easier if I just carry you
down.  We're not that far anyway," he said, looking down to
see Diana waiting at the foot of the hill with the two
horses.

"All right," she said.  "William, I really am sorry about
this."

"I just want to get back to camp."  He stood up and held
his hands out to help her up.  "I need you to stand so I
can pick you up easier."

She raised her hands up to him and he lifted her up.  When
he had her in his arms, she held on tight and tried to stay
still so that he would be able to concentrate on his
footing.  When they reached the bottom, he moved to his
horse and set her down.  She held onto the saddle as he
grabbed her good foot and lifted her up.  Dana awkwardly
crawled into the saddle.  When she stopped moving, he
asked, "Settled?"  She nodded and he handed the reins to
her.  "Just hold these."

He moved to the other side of Diana's horse, away from
Dana.  "Fox, I'm sorry, but it really is her own fault that
she was hurt."

"Diana, she doesn't need to hear it.  She knows."

He bent down and held his hands out for her to put her foot
in.  He felt her put her hand in his hair.  She bent down
and said, "I'm sorry, but you don't deserve having any more
to worry about.  You have enough."

"Put your foot in my hand."

Diana realized she had probably gone as far as she should,
so she put her foot in his hands and he lifted her up.
"Here," he said, handing her the reins.  He leaned in so
that Dana couldn't hear him and said, "Diana, I know you
think you're helping, but you're not.  You're my friend,
but Dana's my wife.  Please don't interfere."

She nodded and looked over to Dana and smiled.

Dana looked at her curiously as Mulder came around the
horse.  He climbed behind Dana and took the reins from her.
Looking over to Diana, he said, "You go ahead Diana and let
the boys know what's happened.  We'll follow behind you."

"All right Fox," she said and kicked her horse, trotting
off ahead of them.

"Does your hip still hurt?" he asked, rubbing it.