THE BREAKS [part 1]
By Whiteoaks (whiteoaks@writeme.com)
 
Walter Skinner strode briskly down the corridor of the fifth floor 
of the J. Edgar Hoover Building. He was late to a meeting and 
was reviewing his notes as he walked. He never noticed the ‘Wet 
Floor’ sign, suddenly he was sliding out of control. Vainly trying 
to find some object to slow his slide, he careened into a potted 
tree, causing him to become airborne. He landed abruptly, solidly 
on his hands, right cheekbone, and knees; his notes snowing 
down around him. Rolling to his side, he tried to regain a standing 
position, only to find himself held firmly to the floor by a 
determined looking red head.
"Scully, let me up. I’m fine!" he whispered frantically.
"Sir, I’m not letting you up until I check you over. You may have 
injured your back or head. That was quite a fall." As he continued 
to try to rise, she added firmly, "I need to check to be sure you’re 
all right."
He almost capitulated but people were beginning to gather around 
them. This was an untenable situation, he needed to get to his 
meeting. Besides, laying on the floor while a female subordinate 
manipulated his body was not good for his image, or for 
maintaining his own illusion of authority.
"Scully, I told you, I’m fine," he said softly, his teeth clenched 
tightly together. "Let me up, now."
"Sir, let her check you for injuries. Just be still, you know she’s 
not going to let you up until she’s certain you haven’t broken 
anything. I’ll get rid of everyone, just let Scully do her thing," 
Mulder was leaning over him, kneeling next to Scully. He was 
holding the notes that had fanned across the floor. Skinner could 
not recall his arrival. He had no idea of how Mulder had managed 
to gather the notes without his noticing,
"Okay. Just get this over. I’m late for a meeting."
"Everyone, please go back to what you were doing. A. D. Skinner 
will be all right. My partner, Dr. Scully, will make sure of that," 
he announced with a slight smile, somehow that did not make 
Skinner feel any better.
The crowd dispersed, but those working nearby kept their 
attention on the trio on the floor.
Scully continued with her examination, asking Skinner to follow 
her right index finger with his eyes, having him bend his legs and 
arms. She noticed he flinched when moving either arm. Scully 
gently pressed against Skinner’s right hand. "Ouch! Not so hard."
"Sir, I barely touched you. I think you may have broken both 
your hands. We need to get you to the hospital. Can you try to 
stand?"
"Sure." He put his left hand against the floor and quickly pulled it 
back to his chest, wincing from the pain. "Mulder, I’m going to 
need your help."
Mulder moved to behind Skinner’s head and helped him 
maneuver to a sitting position. From there, he placed his arms 
around Skinner’s chest, under the arms and levered him upright. 
Finally, Skinner was standing.
"Any other pains? Are you dizzy?" Scully was carefully 
monitoring him.
"No, I’m fine. Let’s just get this over with. Oh, can someone call 
Kim and have her call my appointments? Let them know I’ll be 
out for a few hours?"
"Sir," Scully looked up at him. "You’re not going to be back here 
today. You may not be back tomorrow. I’ll call Kim from the car. 
Mulder, you drive." She handed Mulder her keys and steered 
Skinner to the elevator.
He looked down at her in awe. Just how did this tiny woman 
move him so easily. And why was he slightly fearful of her?
He looked up to see Mulder smiling slightly. For a change, he 
knew exactly what the agent was thinking.
***
The hospital visit took over five hours. By the time he was 
released, he had both hands in temporary casts. His suit coat and 
dress shirt were hanging over his shoulders and buttoned over his 
arms for warmth. The casts were really many layers of cotton 
gauze and a few strategically placed plaster strips, covered with 
elastic bandages that held his bones in place but allowed for 
swelling without cutting his circulation. Only the tips of his 
fingers were visible. In two days, he had to see an orthopedic 
specialist for more x-rays and to have the solid casts applied. As 
he walked to the car with Mulder and Scully, he realized he had 
some major problems to solve. Before he could begin formulating 
a plan, Scully spoke.
"Sir, you can’t go home by yourself. You’re going to need 
someone to help you. First, we need to stop at a pharmacy and 
have the prescription the doctor gave you filled. I can cover the 
cost of it. I don’t think you’re up to signing a credit slip or trying 
to remove money from your wallet." At his nod, she continued. 
"Now, you do have a choice about who’s going to help you. I’m 
available and I’m sure Mulder won’t mind if you’d rather he stay 
with you, that is unless there’s someone else you can call?"
They had arrived at Scully’s car. Mulder opened the door and 
helped him ease into the passenger seat, leaning across him to 
fasten his seat belt. He was beginning to understand just how 
helpless he was. He couldn’t even fasten his own seat belt. He 
obviously could not stay home alone.
After Scully got in back and Mulder in the driver’s seat, Skinner 
came to a decision. "Agent Scully, I thank you for your offer. I 
think I’d prefer Agent Mulder’s help. No offense, but this is going 
to be pretty embarrassing as it is. I don’t think I could accept your 
help with some of the tasks that will need to be done." He turned 
slightly to give her an apologetic smile.
"That’s all right, sir. I do understand. I plan on stopping by, 
though, to check on you. I can always run errands, pick up 
groceries, things like that."
Mulder had started the car and was driving to a nearby pharmacy. 
He realized he needed to agree to stay with Skinner, but the idea 
of it scared him. He wanted to help, but he wasn’t sure how he 
was going to manage to survive staying with his boss for several 
days. He absolutely could not think about what he would have to 
do to help the man survive the next few weeks, this was 
definitely going to be ‘up close and personal’. Resigned to the 
inevitable, "Sir, I’ll be happy to stay at your place. I’ll need to 
stop first to pick up a few of my things." 
Before Skinner could reply, Scully said, "That’s not necessary 
Mulder. Why don’t I pack your stuff and bring it to you. I can 
pick up the prescription then, also. That way, you can get the A. 
D. settled at home right away. I’m sure he’s beginning to feel the 
effects of today." Turning to Skinner she added, "You’re going to 
need more rest than usual. Broken bones are very traumatic for 
the body. Not only are you going to need more rest, but we’ll 
have to supplement your diet with calcium. I’ll pick up some 
other supplies while I get Mulder’s stuff and your prescription. If 
that’s all right with you, that is?"
Skinner nodded, "That’s fine, Scully. Actually, I am beginning to 
feel tired. I’d like to get home and rest."
"Good, that’s settled then."
Mulder changed direction at the next intersection and headed to 
Skinner’s condo.
***
The doorman at Skinner’s building saw Mulder helping Skinner 
from the car and hurried to lend a hand. "Sir? What happened? Is 
there anything I can do?" he spoke rapidly, guiding Walter to the 
door, holding it open so that he and Mulder could enter.
"I fell and landed badly. I’ll be fine. Agent Mulder will be staying 
with me until I regain the use of my hands. His partner, Dana 
Scully, will be stopping by with supplies and with clothes for 
Mulder. Will you direct her to my place? She’s about 5’2" with 
red hair."
The doorman readily agreed. He rang for the elevator and again 
held the door for the men.
Mulder pressed the button for the seventeenth floor and looked at 
Skinner. "You look tired. Is it very painful?"
Skinner was grateful for the question, he had just realized that 
even trying to push the button for his floor would be extremely 
painful. He hated feeling this helpless. "I am tired. My hands hurt, 
sort of a dull throbbing, but they’re not too bad. The prescription 
Scully is getting is just a analgesic to help reduce the swelling. It is 
also a mild pain killer. As long as I don’t do anything, the pain is 
bearable."
The elevator dinged the arrival at the seventeenth floor. Mulder 
gently held his left elbow and together they walked to his door to 
confront the next hurdle. "The keys are in my right pants pocket," 
Walter said resignedly.
Gently opening Skinner’s suit coat and shirt, Mulder found the 
pocket and carefully lifted the keys. Opening the door, he guided 
Skinner to the couch and helped him sit. He removed the jacket 
and shirt, then knelt and removed Skinner’s shoes and lifted his 
legs onto the couch. "Rest here for now. If you need anything, let 
me know. If you’ll direct me to your blankets, I cover you so you 
don’t get chilled. Right now, it would be easy for your body to go 
into shock."
Nodding his understanding, Walter looked towards the stairs. 
"There’s a linen closet off the upstairs hallway, across from the 
guest room. Besides spare blankets, there are towels and sheets. 
You might as well get what you need for yourself as well. I won’t 
be any help in setting up the guest room for you." He laid his 
head back against the stuffed arm of the couch. "There are 
pillows there, too."
"Okay. I’ll be right back." Mulder headed to get the mentioned 
items. He returned quickly, startling Walter from a near doze by 
covering him and lifting his head and shoulders to place a pillow 
against the couch’s arm. He finished by gently removing 
Skinner’s glasses and placing them on the coffee table.
"Sleep now. I’m sure Scully will wake you when she arrives." He 
returned to the second floor to take care of making up the guest 
room.
***
Scully softly knocked on Skinner’s door. She hoped Mulder 
would hear her. The doorman had recognized her as she entered 
the building. He’d insisted on helping her get all the items from 
her car and placed them in the elevator. Now she just needed 
Mulder’s help in retrieving the bags from the elevator. The 
doorman had assured her it was all right to put it on stop until she 
was done.
The door opened and Mulder looked out. Speaking softly, he 
said, "He’s asleep. Where’s the stuff?"
"In the elevator. I need help carrying everything."
With Mulder’s assistance everything was soon inside the condo. 
Directing Scully to the kitchen with a bag of groceries, Mulder 
moved the bag she had packed for him to the guest room. 
Returning to the kitchen, he commented, "This is going to be 
rough for him. He really can’t do anything by himself." Looking 
back towards the couch, he confided, "Scully, I’m worried I’m 
going to do something wrong."
Scully gently turned his head back to her. "Just do your best. This 
is going to be uncomfortable for both of you. I’ll be here if you 
need me. But," now she looked concerned, "It’s inevitable that 
he’s going to fight your help. At some point he’s going to become 
frustrated; he’ll be angry and you are going to be the closest 
person so he’ll strike out at you. Try not to react, okay? Back 
away and call me. I’ll be here as fast as I can."
He knew she meant her promise, he also knew that Skinner’s 
independent nature would make being an invalid intolerable. This 
was going to be rough enough without his insecurities entering 
into it. He nodded, crossed his arms over his midsection, and 
replied, "You’re right. I’ll do my best, Scully. Um, can you take 
care of things at work? At least for the first few days, I don’t 
think I should leave him alone."
"I’ll handle work. You just concentrate on handling Skinner. His 
prescription is next to the sink. He doesn’t have to take it if he 
doesn’t want to, but, if the throbbing in his hands gets bad, have 
him take it. It may upset his stomach, so make sure he eats first. I 
put the groceries away. There’s juice, fresh fruit, stuff for 
sandwiches, soup, and I even remembered to get bendable straws. 
I think I got enough to keep the two of you fed for a couple of 
days, but I’ll call tomorrow to check. You call me if you need 
anything, even if you just need someone to talk to. I don’t care 
what time it is, understand?"
Mulder smiled. "Thanks, partner." He walked Scully to the door, 
and watched her walk to the elevator.
***
Skinner stirred as Mulder turned the dead-bolt on the door. He 
tried to rub his eyes and moaned in pain. Crossing quickly to the 
couch, Mulder dropped to his knees next to him.
"Easy, sir. I know it’s going to be hard, but you can’t put any 
pressure on your hands, at least for a few days. Is there 
something I can do?"
Skinner looked at his hands and mumbled, "I can’t even rub my 
eyes. This is going to be worse than I thought." Looking up at 
Mulder, he gathered his courage and found the words he needed, 
"Can you help me to the bathroom. My face feels dirty, and. . . , 
and," he looked at the floor, "Damn I should have hired a nurse." 
Returning his gaze to look at Mulder, "I need to use the facilities." 
Resting his hand on Skinner’s shoulder Mulder responded, "Sir, 
it’s okay. I understand. Let’s just take care of this and then we 
can talk." He helped his boss to a stand and then accompanied 
him to the bathroom.
***
After helping Skinner back to the couch he went to the kitchen to 
make sandwiches. He could tell Skinner’s hands were bothering 
him and wanted to get him to eat so he could take his medication. 
"Sir, how does ham and mustard on whole wheat sound?"
"That’s fine, Mulder. I’m not exactly hungry."
"You need to eat something so you can take the pill the doctor 
prescribed. Can you drink milk? It will help coat your stomach."
"Sure, milk’s fine. There’s a tray in the cupboard to the left of the 
sink."
Mulder brought two sandwiches and two glasses of milk to the 
living room. Placing the tray on the coffee table, he picked up the 
glass that also had a straw in it. Holding it up to Skinner’s mouth, 
he waited until Skinner finished drinking. Nonchalantly, he 
alternately fed Skinner and himself. Finishing the meal, he placed 
a pill in Skinner’s mouth and held up the milk again. He gathered 
the dishes and tray and returned them to the kitchen. He knew the 
time had come for them to talk.
He sat next to Skinner on the couch. Staring at the balcony door 
he said "I think we should talk. I know I’m feeling awkward, I 
imagine you’re embarrassed. I’d like to make you as comfortable 
as possible. If you’d rather hire a nurse, I understand. But I want 
you to know that I’m willing to stay here and take care of you." 
He turned to look at Skinner.
Focusing his attention on Mulder, Skinner began slowly and 
truthfully, "Having you help me take a leak was embarrassing and 
weird. Having you wash my face made me feel like a little kid. 
Having you hand feed me was not as humiliating as I expected." 
He paused to make sure Mulder was understanding what he was 
saying. Assured, he continued, "I’m sorry about the nurse remark 
earlier. It’s just difficult not being able to take of myself. The fact 
that I need help with the most basic needs is overwhelming. 
However, I don’t know of anyone I trust more than you. I’d like 
you to stay." Seeing Mulder’s amazement, he added, "And, I’d 
like you to call me Walter. Let’s face it, ‘sir’ is not going to cut it 
when you’re wiping my ass."
At this Mulder broke out laughing. Skinner grinned and relaxed 
against the back of the couch. He knew the next few weeks were 
going to challenge both he and Mulder, but he felt satisfied that 
he had made the right decision.
***
The night was painful and frustrating for both of them. Having 
helped Walter get ready for bed, including another bathroom trip, 
Mulder had settled into the guest room. He knew he’d have 
trouble sleeping and was happy to find Scully had packed a few 
of their ongoing files. Settling back on the bed to re-read his 
notes, Mulder glanced at the door. He had left it partially open so 
he could hear if Skinner needed help. Satisfied that it remained 
open, he started reading. Not more than an hour later he heard a 
groan followed by mutterings. He dropped the file and headed 
down the hall.
He found Skinner holding his hands to his chest, moaning in 
distress. Helping the man sit up, he asked, "Walter, what 
happened?"
"I must of rolled on my hands. I’m sorry I woke you."
"No problem, I wasn’t asleep, yet. Do you need another pain 
killer?"
"I think so. I’m sorry."
"Look, it’s not your fault. Just relax, I’ll be right back."
Heeding Scully’s advice about food, he returned with the pill, a 
glass of milk and a couple of cookies. "Sorry to make you eat 
again, but Scully warned me that these pills could upset your 
stomach if you didn’t eat something before taking them." 
"That’s all right. I’ just thankful you’re here." He leaned against 
Mulder as he ate the cookies, took the pill, and finished the glass 
of milk. Mulder gently laid him back down.
"Try to go back to sleep. I’m going to take this stuff to the 
kitchen. I’ll be in my room if you need me."
It was only two hours later when Skinner yelped. He’d rolled over 
and placed his head on his right hand. It was too soon for another 
pill, so Mulder simply helped him roll to one side, and then 
rubbed his back until he fell asleep.
Two hours later it happened again. This time, Mulder asked, 
"Which side do you want?"
"What?"
"Which side of the bed do you prefer to sleep on?"
"What?"
"Never mind." Mulder picked up the covers and slid into Walter’s 
bed. Pilling pillows behind him, he settled against the headboard. 
He pulled Skinner between his legs, and had him lay back against 
another pillow he’d placed against his chest. Taking Skinner’s 
wrists in his hands, he crossed them and held them in place 
against Skinner’s chest. "Let’s see if this works. Go to sleep."
"Unable to think of an appropriate reply, Skinner obeyed and 
soon was sleeping peacefully.
***
The sun was shining brightly through the bedroom window when 
Mulder awoke. Glancing down, he saw Skinner sleeping 
peacefully. He eased out from under him, and went into the 
bathroom. Returning to the room, he found Skinner looking at 
him sleepily.
"Morning, how are you feeling?"
Skinner didn’t seem to be able to look at him. "I’m okay. I, I want 
to thank you for last night. I’m sorry I was so much trouble." 
"Walter, look at me. It wasn’t your fault. You can’t control how 
you sleep. It’s okay, understand? I didn’t mind."
Looking relieved, Walter nodded. "Okay. Thank you."
"Let’s get you in the bathroom. I’ll help you get ready, then we 
can have breakfast." The two men proceeded to get ready to face 
the day.
***
Breakfast over, Walter was once again ensconced on the couch. 
He wanted to watch the news, but had no way of turning on the 
T. V. "Mulder? Can you turn on the news for me, please?"
"Sure." Coming into the room, Mulder picked up the remote. "Is 
there a particular channel you prefer?"
"CNN’’s good. Thank you."
Mulder switched on CNN and returned to the kitchen. He quickly 
finished the dishes. "Walter, do you need anything?"
"No, I’m fine."
"Okay. I’m going to head back upstairs and work on some files. 
Yell if you need anything."
Thirty minutes later he heard his name called. Coming down 
stairs, he found Walter trying to get up from the couch. Helping 
him he asked, "What’s wrong? What do you need?"
"I don’t know. I’ve got a stitch in my side. I thought standing 
would help."
"Feel better now?"
"Yes. Thanks. I’m sorry I disturbed you. I’m going to walk 
around a bit. Go back to what you were doing."
"Walter, do you want to take a walk outside?"
Smiling, Walter nodded his head. "I’d like that. Thank you."
"Okay. Let me get our jackets and we’ll go."
The walk was pleasant, although Mulder frequently had to steady 
Skinner. Neither man had realized how often they relied on their 
hands to keep them steady and upright. Soon, Mulder noticed 
Skinner slowing and turned them to return to the condo. Helping 
Walter out of his coat, he led him to the couch,
"Walter, rest now. I’ll make lunch."
"Thanks, Mulder." He refused to lay back. "Mulder? I want you 
to know I appreciate your help. Last night meant a lot to me." 
Having said this, Skinner relaxed. Soon, he was sound asleep.
***
Mulder called Scully as he entered the kitchen. He knew she was 
going to call soon, and he didn’t want her call to wake Skinner.
"Hey Scully, it’s me. Thought I’d check in and save you the 
trouble."
"How’s Skinner? Are you two managing?"
"We’re okay. It’s difficult, he really can’t do anything. I thought 
he’d changed his mind about my helping him last night, but we 
talked and he seems more comfortable with me now. We went for 
a short walk this morning, he’s napping while I make lunch."
"A walk? Mulder, he should be keeping his hands slightly 
elevated, whenever possible. If he doesn’t, they’re going to swell 
and hurt more."
"I know. He pretty much keeps them up and crossed over his 
chest when he’s standing. It makes him slightly unstable, so I stay 
close and hold his elbow when he starts to sway. I never realized 
how much you use your arms for balance."
"Don’t let him over do it, if you can. I’m planning on stopping by 
after work. Do you need me to pick up anything?"
"No, I think we’re okay for now. I’m about to make lunch. Wait, 
can you pick up a gallon of milk? We’re going through that rather 
quickly."
"Milk’s good for him. Sure, I’ll pick some up on my way."
Terminating the call, Fox opened the refrigerator to see what 
looked good for lunch. He decided sandwiches were his best bet. 
He’d make something hot for dinner. There was lasagna in the 
freezer. He could nuke that and heat up some vegetables, that 
wouldn’t challenge his limited cooking abilities. He wished he 
could invite Scully to join them, but he knew Skinner would feel 
really uncomfortable being fed in front of her.
***
After he’d finished the lunch clean-up, Mulder heard Walter call 
his name. It was time for another bathroom trip. Helping his boss, 
he realized it was time to talk about a bath or shower. Walter was 
smelling a bit ripe after their morning exercise. Since his fall, 
Mulder had only bathed his upper body. Now, to figure out how 
to do this.
"Walter, I think it’s time we get you really clean. I can put plastic 
bags over your casts, and we can get in the shower together. I 
noticed the one in your bathroom is a walk-in and big enough for 
two. I think that’ll be easier than trying to get you in and out of 
the bathtub. Are you willing to give it a try?" He tried to sound as 
matter of fact as possible. While they’d been in the showers at the 
same time at work, this was going to be completely different.
Skinner looked thoughtful. He knew Mulder was trying to keep 
this low key, he especially appreciated Mulder’s willingness to get 
in the shower with him. He’d wanted to wash after the walk, but 
he didn’t know how he could get in and out of the tub, even with 
Mulder’s help. This was the best solution.
"I’m willing to try it, if you are. I’d really like to feel clean again. 
Thanks." There, that was good. Now he just had to survive the 
actual shower. This was worse than needing help to use the toilet. 
At least then he had some clothes on and Mulder was fully 
dressed.
Mulder assisted him to his room He helped him sit on the bed, 
then said, "I’ll be right back. Scully packed a pair of my running 
shorts. I’m just going to change into them and I’ll be right back."
Whew, Skinner felt unaccountably relieved. For some reason, the 
fact that Mulder was going to be wearing shorts made him feel 
much better. He waited patiently for Mulder to return. True to his 
words, he was back in just a few minutes. 
"I’m going to hang your robe in the bathroom. Then I’ll help you 
undress." Help? Skinner thought. The only thing Mulder didn’t do 
was pick him up while Mulder slid his pants over his butt. That he 
did himself, but even then Mulder had to help hold him steady. 
He knew he was sulking, but this was getting old fast. It had only 
been twenty-four hours since he fell. He didn’t know how he was 
going to survive the upcoming weeks.
***
The shower started uneventfully. Mulder carefully washed his 
scalp and trimming of hair. He washed his back and chest with a 
cloth, stopping to work on loosening the tight muscles in his neck 
and shoulders. It felt unbelievably good. Unfortunately, as 
Mulder began to move to wash Skinner’s knees and thighs, 
Skinner lost his balance, bringing his foot up into Mulder’s groin. 
Despite the painful results, Mulder managed to keep Walter from 
falling.
"Walter here. Lean against the wall for a minute," Mulder gasped. 
"I need to catch my breath."
"Oh, God. I’m sorry, Mulder. Are you okay? That’s got to hurt 
something fierce. I’m really sorry." Skinner just wanted to curl up 
in a ball and wash down the drain.
"I’m all right, honest. You didn’t kick me that hard. Just give me a 
minute." Slowly pulling himself upright, Mulder reached down to 
pull the wet suit away from his throbbing genitals.
"At least it doesn’t seem to be swelling." Skinner could not 
believe he had just said that. He closed his eyes, and bounced his 
forehead off the tiled wall. "I’m sorry, Mulder. That came out 
wrong."
"Never mind, Walter. I understand. I know you didn’t mean 
anything by it." He didn’t want to think about Walter looking at 
him ‘there’. "Let’s finish up. I’m all right now."
He picked up the cloth and knelt to finish washing the lower half 
of Walter’s body. The reaction to the wash cloth against Walter’s 
genitals was immediate and unmistakable. Mulder pretended not 
to notice.
He rinsed the suds from Walter’s body, helped him from the stall, 
dried him and helped him on with the robe. Back in the bedroom, 
Walter laid on the bed and tried to will a pillow to cover his face.
"Walter, say something. I know you’re upset. It was just an 
accident, don’t beat yourself up about it."
"Easy for you to say. You’re not the one who has absolutely no 
dignity left. The one who has to let you wipe his butt, hold his 
dick while he takes a leak; the one who has to let you brush his 
teeth, bathe and feed him like a helpless baby." The words came 
pouring out of Walter. It was like a dam had broken and he 
couldn’t stop them. "I hate this, and there’s nothing I can do to 
change it. Just leave me alone. I need some time to myself."
"I’ll be in my room. Yell if you need me," Mulder retreated from 
the room. He realized Skinner needed to recover his equilibrium.
***
Mulder raced down the stairs to answer the door bell. He knew it 
was Scully. It had been two hours since the shower, but Skinner 
had still not called him back to his bedroom. He was beginning to 
worry.
Skinner heard the doorbell. He was holding his hands to his chest. 
He’d knocked them against the side of the shower when he 
slipped, there was no way he was going to admit to Mulder that 
he’d injured himself. He could not reconcile his reaction in the 
shower, it was just unthinkable. He’d been embarrassed and in 
pain, how could he react that way? Maybe Scully would come up 
without Mulder and he could ask her to find a nurse for him. A 
female nurse, at least then an erection would be understandable.
 
Mulder greeted Scully solemnly. "We had a problem in the 
shower. He’s not talking to me."
"Oh? What happened?"
Mulder painstakingly recounted the incident, he included all the 
details. "I think he’s embarrassed by his reaction. I don’t know 
what to do. He’s got to be hurting, I know at least one of his 
hands hit the wall when he slipped. What can I do, Scully?"
"I’ll go check on him. Rescue me if you hear yelling." She gave 
him a sympathetic smile and headed up the stairs.
***
Scully knocked gently on Walter’s door before entering. He 
looked up at her quizzically, "Did Mulder call you to complain?"
"No. We spoke earlier, he asked me to bring over some milk. 
Now, I understand you hurt your hands again?’
"Not really, I just jarred them. They’re fine." He was still laying 
on his back with his hands cradled against his chest. "Did he tell 
you what happened?"
"Yes," she raised her eyebrow, "everything." There was no 
doubting what she meant. "You know you should talk to him."
"I can’t, I’m too embarrassed." Skinner hated to admit it, but it 
was true.
Scully sat next to him on the bed and gently took one wrist in her 
hands. She looked over the cast for any obvious damage and 
examined his finger tips to make sure his circulation wasn’t 
impaired. Satisfied, she returned it to his chest and picked up the 
other one. "He thinks you’re mad at him. He’s worried he’s done 
something wrong."
"Damn." He closed his eyes for a few seconds, then opened them 
and tilted his head. "Help me up?"
Holding his elbow, she slid a hand under his shoulder to help 
guide him to a sitting position. As his robe started to gape open, 
she let go of him. Taking the edge of the robe, she wrapped it 
more securely around him, and tightened the belt. Smiling, she 
took his forearms and helped him stand.
"Do you want to go downstairs, or should I send him up? He can 
help you dress while you talk."
Skinner sighed and looked at the doorway. "Send him up, please. 
That is, if he’s still willing to talk to me. I wouldn’t blame him if 
he wanted to leave."
"He still wants to help you, believe me." She turned to go out the 
door.
"Dana?" She stopped and looked back. "Thanks. I know I was 
acting like a jerk."
"No problem. You’re entitled." She smiled again and left to get 
Mulder.
***
Mulder entered Skinner’s room cautiously. He saw Walter 
standing next to the bureau, one hip leaning against it.
"You wanted to talk to me?" he asked quietly.
"Yeah, I wanted to apologize for being a jerk. I’m sorry for 
blowing up like that. I’m just having trouble handling this. I . , I 
can’t explain what happened in the shower."
Mulder walked over to the bureau and leaned against it, his 
posture mirroring Walter’s. "Don’t worry about it. Look, you’re 
coping with a lot of stuff, you’re hurt, and you’d just been 
startled. Just think of it as a flashback to adolescence." He looked 
at Skinner and grinned crookedly, "You remember, when you had 
to hold your books in front of you for most of the day."
Skinner finally grinned. "I remember all right. I thought my ears 
were going to be permanently red." Standing upright, he turned to 
Mulder. "Are you still willing to help? I’d like to get some clothes 
on. I almost flashed Scully while she was up here."
Mulder laughed. "No problem." He became somber, "But, Walter, 
promise me you’ll let me know if you need me to back off. I’m 
trying to respect you’re privacy, but I’m a novice at this. I’m 
bound to make mistakes."
"Deal. Now, let’s get me dressed. We have a guest downstairs."
Mulder realized he liked the sound of that, ‘we’ have a guest. 
Maybe this would work after all.
***
Scully turned from the balcony door as the two men descended 
the stairs. "Everything okay now?"
Skinner looked slightly abashed and said, "Yeah. Thanks again." 
Mulder helped him to the couch.
"I’m going to start dinner. The sooner we eat, the sooner Walter 
can take his medicine." He looked apprehensively towards Scully.
"I can’t stay. I’m doing some errands for my Mom tonight. Now 
that you two are okay, I’m going to go," Scully answered. She 
knew what Mulder’s glance had meant.
Mulder walked her to the door. Touching her shoulder, he leaned 
forward and placed a chaste kiss on her cheek. "Thanks again, 
Scully, for everything."
Startled, Scully smiled back at him in return. "You’re welcome. 
Call me if you need me." Raising her voice slightly, "Sir, that goes 
for you to. Have Mulder call me if you need me. I’ll be here as 
soon as I can. I mean that, even if you just want to talk."
Before Skinner could reply, she was out the door.
Mulder locked the door and turned to go into the kitchen. 
"Mulder?" Skinner appeared to be troubled.
"Walter, don’t. We’re not involved, you’re not disrupting 
anything. That was just a friendly ‘thank you’ peck on the cheek. 
I don’t thank her enough, I wanted to let her know I do appreciate 
what she does for me." He looked at Skinner, hoping that would 
satisfy his curiosity and keep him from feeling guilty.
"You’re sure?"
"I’m positive. Now let me get dinner ready."
***
Dinner was uneventful. The lasagna had warmed perfectly, as 
had the vegetables. They’d eaten in the living room while they 
watched a football game. Both men skirted any significant 
conversation. They talked about the game. Mulder reminded 
Skinner that they had an appointment the following afternoon 
with the orthopedic surgeon. It was restful after the afternoon’s 
tensions. Even the inevitable bathroom trip was comfortable, just 
one friend helping another. All too soon it was time for bed.
Mulder helped Skinner get ready for bed. Turning down the 
covers, he guided Walter back against the pillows. "I’m going to 
head to my room now, yell if you need me."
"Mulder," Skinner looked distinctly uncomfortable. "Would you 
mind staying in here again tonight?"
"No, I don’t mind. Can I ask why?"
"I don’t want to be alone. I’m . . , I’m kind of having flashbacks 
to the hospital after I was injured in "Nam." He peered earnestly 
up at Mulder. "This afternoon, after I lost it, while I was laying 
here, I kept thinking it was just like then; I was helpless, I 
couldn’t sit up or do anything for myself. The medical care was 
top notch, but they treated me like a piece of meat. I couldn’t do 
anything myself, they decided what I’d do and when. It was 
much worse than this. I had tubes everywhere. I couldn’t even eat 
normally, they fed me through a tube. I had absolutely no control 
over my body. I didn’t know anyone. I . , I just don’t want to feel 
like that again."
Mulder sat next to him. "I’m sorry, Walter. I can understand why 
you wouldn’t want to relive that. Let me change my clothes and 
I’ll be right back. I’ll even bring the pillows from my bed." 
Smiling gently, he patted Walter’s shoulder, stood and left the 
room.
Returning quickly, he gestured to the book he’d brought with him. 
"Scully brought this over. It’s the latest Tom Clancy, not my usual 
fare but I thought I could read it out loud and we could both 
enjoy it, that is, if you haven’t already read it."
Skinner looked pleased. "I haven’t. I bought a copy, but I just 
haven’t had the time. Thanks."
Piling the pillows from the guest bed against the headboard, 
Mulder slipped into the bed. Picking up the book, he began 
reading. About thirty minutes later he felt Skinner’s head leaning 
against his shoulder. Looking down he saw his boss sound asleep. 
He moved Walter slightly, lay down himself and pulled Walter’s 
head against his shoulder again. He hoped the continued contact 
would reassure the man that he was not alone.
***
Mulder woke to an elbow jamming into his ribs. "No, stop! No 
more needles! No more tubes! Stop!"
Walter was firmly ensconced in a nightmare. His arms and legs 
flailing madly, Mulder tried to calm him. He gathered Walter’s 
arms to his sides, holding them firmly, and called his name, 
"Walter. It’s okay. Wake up. Walter, you’re fine, you’re home. 
Walter, please wake up."
There was no response as Skinner continued to toss and scream, 
trying to dislodge Mulder’s hold on him. Fearing he would 
damage his hands further, Mulder wrapped his body around 
Skinner, twisted him to his side and soundly smacked Walter’s 
pajama’d bottom twice.
"What? What’s going on?" Walter looked blurry eyed at Mulder, 
"Did you hit me?"
"Yes. You were having a nightmare. You were yelling ‘No more 
needles,. No more tubes’ and tossing around. I was afraid you’d 
hurt your hands."
‘Oh. Okay. Did I hurt you?"
"Not really. It was just an abrupt awakening. Can you go back to 
sleep now? Do you need me to get your medication? Are you in 
pain?"
"Easy, Mulder. I’m okay. Maybe if you read another chapter, I 
could calm down enough to sleep. My butt seems to be smarting 
for some reason."
"Sorry. I couldn’t think of anything else to do."
"It worked, I guess that’s what’s important."
Resuming their previous positions, Mulder read until Walter fell 
asleep again. Fortunately, both men slept soundly until morning.
***
 
Walter awoke to find Mulder’s arm across his chest. The agent 
was sleeping on his stomach, his face buried in a pillow. He hated 
to wake him, but a trip to the bathroom was necessary.
"Mulder, I need to get up and I need your help. Mulder?"
A muffled sound from the pillow was the only response.
"Mulder, please. I really need to use the bathroom." It was 
frustrating to be this helpless. He nudged Mulder’s leg with his 
knee. "Come on, Mulder, wake up now."
"Hunh?" Mulder’s head raised from the pillow. "Walter? " 
Walter’s words filtered through his sleep fogged brain. "Oh, sorry. 
Give me a second here." He pushed himself up, running one hand 
through his hair. He walked around the bed and helped Skinner to 
stand.
"How are your hands? Any pain."
"No, they’re fine. It’s my bladder that’s bothering me now." It 
was getting easier to make bathroom references Walter noticed. 
He hoped that would also be true for the rest of his personal 
hygiene needs.
"Okay. Let’s take care of that. What time is it?" He glanced at the 
clock on the night stand. "Whoa, nine o’clock, we slept late. 
You’re appointment is at one. We better get a move on. We have 
to get both of us washed, dressed and fed."
***
Two hours later both men had showered, eaten, and dressed. This 
time the shower was uneventful, much to their relief. They’d also 
managed to conquer a new task; shaving. Yesterday they had 
ignored the stubble on Walter’s face. Today, Walter had taken 
one look at the mirror and proclaimed, "I look like thug. I can’t go 
out looking like this!"
"Walter, you’re injured. People will understand."
"I’m not going to the doctor with this stubble on my face," was 
the stubborn reply.
"Oh, all right." He knew when to give up, just another new 
experience to survive. "Where’s your gear?"
"In the cabinet. I use a safety razor and foam. I just changed the 
blade, so it should be sharp." Walter nodded towards the mirror. 
Then he looked back at Mulder, "Thanks. I hate looking like a 
slob."
"Walter, no will ever be able to accuse you of looking slovenly. 
Here, let’s sit you on the toilet so I can get started."
He covered the stubble with foam, and carefully dragged the 
razor over Walter’s face and neck. The upper lip and chin were 
the trickiest areas. He concentrated on the task and tried not think 
about the fact he was pushing his boss’ face around. When he 
grabbed Walter’s nose to shave his upper lip, he had to bite his 
own lip to keep a giggle from escaping. Finally, they were both 
satisfied with the result. Mulder took a wet cloth and wiped away 
the remaining foam. They left the bathroom to dress and eat 
breakfast.
Walter decided he could skip the medication. His hands didn’t 
hurt, as long as he didn’t try to use them.
"We should leave here about an hour before your appointment. 
It’s going to take a while to drive there and there will probably be 
paperwork to complete before we can actually see the doctor. 
That gives us an hour to kill. Any ideas?"
Walter was seated on the couch. He looked wistfully at Mulder; 
"I’d like to hear more of the Clancy book, if you don’t mind."
Mulder laughed softly. "No, I don’t mind. Think you can stay 
awake if I read to you?"
Walter grinned. "I’ll do my best, promise." He made a crossing 
gesture over his heart with his encased right hand.
Mulder left to retrieve the book from the bedroom. He found he 
wanted to continue reading the book as much as Walter did.
***
Mulder had been correct, there were several forms to complete 
before they could meet with the doctor. Mulder had remembered 
to bring Walter’s insurance card. He filled out the forms, copying 
information from the card and asking Walter for answers to 
medical history questions. Given the circumstances, the 
administrative staff allowed them to skip the signature lines. Soon 
they were escorted to an examination room.
The nurse motioned them into the exam room. "I need to check 
Mr. Skinner’s blood pressure and pulse. I’m going to remove the 
temporary splints, as well." She turned her attention to Mulder, 
"Can you help him remove his jacket and shirt? It’s all right for 
him to leave his undershirt on." At Mulder’s affirmative nod, she 
pulled a rolling cart into the room. On it were scissors and other 
implements necessary for removal of the splints.
Soon Walter was looking at his naked, wrinkled hands. "Keep 
those elevated. I’m going to take your blood pressure now. Then, 
you have to go for x-rays. I’ll put your arms in slings before you 
head over there. It will protect your hands from accidental contact 
with other objects."
She quickly noted the readings on a chart, placed Walter’s arms in 
the slings and directed the two men to the x-ray area. There a lab 
technician walked them through the x-ray process and sent them 
back to the examination room with a curt "The doctor will be with 
you shortly."
Mulder noticed Walter was shivering as he sat on the exam table, 
he legs dangling over the edge. He took the jacket from the wall 
hook and wrapped it around Skinner’s shoulders. Walter looked 
surprised, and then nodded his thanks. At this, the doctor entered 
the room, x-rays in hand.
"Mr. Skinner?" Walter nodded, "I’m Doctor Stevensen. Let’s take 
a look at your pictures." He slid several x-rays onto the display 
screen. "I see two breaks in the right hand, and one in the left. 
Looks like the bones are still lined up well, we should be able to 
just cast them and let them heal."
"How long will that take?" Walter asked anxiously.
"At least a month, maybe longer. The older you are, the longer it 
takes to heal. " Walter grimaced at this pronouncement. "Do you 
have full time help? You’re really going to be helpless for the 
next month or so."
"Yes, he does. I’m Fox Mulder, I’ve agreed to stay with Walter 
and help him. The fact that’s he’s my boss has made it easier to 
get the leave approved," Mulder said with a grin.
"I imagine that is a plus," the doctor responded. You’re both F. B. 
I. employees? Walter, I want to caution you. I’m going to need to 
see you again in two weeks, to see how your bones are healing. 
Right now, I foresee no complications; but, if you try to use your 
hands that will change. You must keep them relaxed, no jarring 
contact, no trying to bend the fingers or your wrists. Do you 
understand? It will be much longer than a month before you can 
even think about firing a gun or doing any real physical activity 
with them." He carefully watched Walter’s reaction to his 
warning. Seeing there would be no objections, he left the room, 
sending in another technician to take them to the casting room.
Finally, the casts were formed around Walter’s hands and Mulder 
was allowed to help him dress. They stopped at the desk to make 
an appointment for the two-week follow-up. Walter looked 
around nervously.
"Walter, what’s wrong?"
"I’ve got to go to the bathroom. I don’t want to use a public 
restroom. Do you think they have a private one here?"
"Let me ask."
Mulder returned with a key for the staff restroom, the woman at 
the appointment window had been very understanding. Returning 
the key when they were finished, they headed back to the condo.
***
Walter was quiet on the trip home. Mulder could tell he was tired, 
but he also seemed subdued. "Walter, is something wrong?"
It took several seconds for Walter to reply. "I guess I’m just 
feeling old and decrepit. The doctor’s comment about age didn’t 
help." He sat up straight and turned to ask, " Mulder, what if my 
hands don’t heal in a month? I can’t ask you to put your life on 
hold indefinitely. Maybe we should just check into an assisted 
living residence for me until my hands heal. Scully needs you at 
work, if the two of you don’t keep your department operating, 
they’re going to use it as an excuse to shut you down." Skinner 
was becoming more agitated as he spoke. "Mulder, the best thing 
is for me to find somewhere to stay and for you to go back to 
work." He stopped talking, turned to face forward, and laid his 
head on the back of the seat.
"Walter, no. I’m not going to check you into some sort of nursing 
home. I am going to take care of you." He pulled the car into the 
lot at Skinner’s building. "Look at me, please. I want to stay with 
you and help you. I can work on files for Scully. I can do 
research, I’ll even do profiles if it will help. I don’t want to give 
up on this, I’ve discovered I like being with you. Okay?"
He exited the car, slamming the door. He managed to calm 
himself before he opened the passenger door, "Walter, please let 
me stay?" Walter was surprised to see tears shining in Mulder’s 
eyes.
After he was standing, he placed one hand on Mulder’s shoulder. 
"Look, I didn’t mean to seem ungrateful. I appreciate your help, 
and I find I’m enjoying your company." Mulder stood absolutely 
still. "If you think you can help Scully with research and files 
from here, fine. Just don’t stay if you need to go investigate a 
site."
They began to walk to the elevator. "I’ll agree to that if you agree 
to me finding someone to stay with you when I can’t."
Skinner’s eyebrows were raised. "Did you have someone in 
mind?"
As the elevator climbed to the seventeenth floor, Mulder looked 
at him and smiled. "Frohike has medic experience. I’m sure I can 
get him to help."
Skinner leaned against the open elevator door, "Frohike? Are you 
serious?"
Mulder turned him and started leading him to the apartment. "I’m 
serious. You don’t have to decide now. Just think about it. I can 
have him stop over if you’d like to talk to him in person."
He unlocked the door, and removed their jackets. Skinner sank 
down on the couch. "Let me think about it." He looked up with an 
odd expression on his face, "Frohike? Never mind, I’ll think 
about it for now. I think I need to nap for a bit."
Mulder helped him lay down, removing his shoes and glasses and 
covering him with an afghan. Soon Skinner was fast asleep. 
Mulder decided to check in with Scully.
***
Walter woke to noises in the kitchen. "Mulder?"
"Yeah, Walter. Just a second, I’ll be right out."
Walter heard water running and then it stopped. Mulder appeared, 
a towel and wet cloth on his shoulder, a glass of water with a 
straw in his hand. He set the items on the coffee table and helped 
Walter sit up. He held the glass so that Walter could drink as 
much as he wanted. Sitting the glass back down, he took the wet 
cloth and ran it over Walter’s face and around his neck. He took 
the towel and gently dried the wet skin.
"Ah, that feels good. Thank you," Walter said.
"No problem. I know how I feel when I wake from a nap." 
Mulder took the towel and cloth back to the kitchen. 
Returning, he moved behind the couch and gently massaged 
Walter’s neck and shoulders. "I talked with Scully while you were 
sleeping. I told her what the doctor said." He moved to the front 
of the couch. "She said she’d been researching the effects of your 
injuries." He picked up Walter’s right arm and gently bent and 
extended the elbow, and moved the arm up and down at the 
shoulder. He repeated this with the left arm. "She said muscle 
atrophy is a problem. We’ve got to do gentle exercises to prevent 
that. That, the muscles in your hands will atrophy, but we can 
prevent the problems with your arms and shoulders by working 
them and massaging them."
Releasing the arm, he sat next to Walter. "When the casts finally 
come off, your hands are going to be stiff and you’ll have 
problems trying to bend the fingers let alone trying to use them 
for anything. You’ll have exercises to do. With luck, we’ll be able 
to take care of the exercises ourselves. If not, you’re going to 
have to see a physical therapist."
"Okay, that explains the massage and arm movements." He turned 
so he could look at Mulder, "Mulder, can we talk about what you 
said in the car and parking lot? I was surprised that this was so 
important to you."
Mulder leaned forward, rested his elbows on his knees and 
clasped his hands. "I was surprised myself." He twisted his body 
so he was again looking at Walter. He placed his right hand on the 
back of the couch, next to Walter’s shoulder. "I, I think part of it 
is because for the first time in a long time I actually feel needed. 
Outside of work, my life is pretty solitary. I think I’ve just 
discovered I like being needed, I like helping you. That’s the 
other part, I guess. I’m discovering you as a person, and I like 
what I’m finding. You’re not just my boss, you’re a real person 
with needs. Does that make sense?"
"I think so. My life is pretty solitary also. I’ll admit it’s nice to 
have someone around to talk to and to watch t. v. with. I’m not 
going to force you to leave, but I want your promise that you’ll let 
me know if you change your mind or if you need to go back to 
work."
"It’s a deal." Mulder looked pleased. "Let’s dispose of the idea of 
you going to a home." He smiled slightly. "While I’m sure there 
are health care workers who’d be willing to slap your butt to bring 
you out of a nightmare, I don’t think you’d get the care you 
deserve." Skinner made a humphing sound at that. "So that’s out, 
completely. Now, about someone to help you if I need to go out 
on a case, , , I still think Frohike is a good choice. I mentioned 
him to Scully, she wasn’t too enthusiastic, but she did agree he 
was qualified to do the job. She also said her mother was willing 
to help out. I know Mrs. Scully could take care of you, but I don’t 
think you’d be very comfortable with it."
"You’re right there. I really don’t want Scully’s Mom helping in 
the bathroom like I’m just being potty trained." Both men had to 
smile at that image. "I guess it’s Frohike then. Can you give him a 
call so we can discuss it? I’d like to get to know him better before 
I’m left in his care."
"I’ll take care of it after dinner. Speaking of which, Scully should 
be here soon. She’s bringing us more groceries. Her mother has 
been cooking, she’s made several dishes for us that I can just heat 
up when we want. She’s also sending over some old clothes. I 
guess they must have belonged to Scully’s father. I told Scully 
about the trouble I had fitting your clothes over the casts. Those 
were the biggest and most stretchable cuffs I could find in your 
closet. Her Mom said she has some old shirts we could cut the 
cuffs off, stuff she had packed up but not taken to the Salvation 
Army. That way we won’t ruin too many of your things."
"Sounds good. The Scully’s are pretty incredible, aren’t they?"
"No argument there." There was a knock at the door. "Bet that’s 
Scully now."
***
Once again, Scully’s arms were full and there were packages 
waiting in the elevator. Mulder helped her carry everything into 
the apartment. She headed into the kitchen. "I’m going to turn the 
oven on low. This casserole is still warm, you can eat it when 
you’re ready. Mulder, I’ll put the rest of the food away if you’ll 
take the clothes upstairs."
After everything was in its place, Scully sat on the couch next to 
Skinner. "Mulder said the doctor was optimistic about your hands 
healing."
"I guess, all I really heard was how long I’m going to be unable to 
use them. I suppose I should be happy the breaks were clean and 
I don’t need surgery." He smiled at her. "Thanks. I need to be 
reminded to look at the glass as half full occasionally."
"I think we all do. Did you and Mulder settle the care taker 
question?"
"Yeah. Mulder’s staying," a smile lit up his face. "I didn’t realize 
how much it meant to him, or to me, for that matter. He’s going to 
have Frohike come over so I can talk with him. He seems like the 
best candidate for the substitute. Scully, I know your mother’s 
willing to help, and I know she’s cared for males before. I’m just 
more comfortable with another guy. I hope you understand."
"Don’t worry. I do. If the tables were turned, I don’t think I’d 
want you or Mulder helping me." They both smiled at this.
Scully stood. "I’m going to head out so you can have your dinner. 
Mulder, I’m going to email some files to you. I think I’m 
overlooking something critical. I’m hoping you can catch it."
"Scully, do you mind if I look at them too?"
"Sir, you’re my boss. Of course I don’t mind. I’d love your help." 
She leaned down and kissed his forehead. "That’s from my Mom, 
I hope you don’t mind," she smiled and left. Skinner was frozen 
in place, a delighted look on his face.
Mulder walked over to him. "She surprised you, didn’t she?"
"Yeah. I don’t think anyone’s done that since my mother did 
when I was a kid. Feels nice to know they care."
"I know what you mean. I think that was as much from Scully as 
from her mother. Come on, we have food to eat. Let’s get you in 
the kitchen. I think we can sit at the table tonight. The casserole is 
hot, I don’t want to drag it out here and I’m hungry. We only had 
breakfast today. I’m planning on having more than one helping." 
He assisted Walter to the kitchen where they both ate ravenously.
***
Frohike arrived as Mulder was finishing the dinner dishes. He 
introduced him to Skinner, then took his leave, "I’m going to head 
upstairs and see if Scully’s sent those files. Yell if you need me."
Skinner and Frohike looked awkwardly at each other. Neither 
man knew how to start, nor really what they should say. Finally, 
Skinner spoke, "Mulder said you were a medic?"
"In ‘Nam. It was better than being a tunnel rat, which someone 
did suggest because of my size."
"Man, tunnel rats had the worst jobs of all of us."
"I know, that’s why I was glad I had some medical training. 
Besides, the guys that were injured over there deserved someone 
who actually cared if they lived or died. I did my best to make 
them comfortable and help them recover. It was hard, there was 
so much suffering, but I think I made a difference for a lot of 
them."
Skinner softened, "I wish I had met you there. I got good care, but 
it was all cold and unfeeling. I still have nightmares about how 
helpless I was."
"I’m sorry. Um, can I ask you for a favor?"
"I guess so. It depends on the favor."
"Could you call me Mel? Frohike sounds too much like back 
there. I’m used to it with Mulder and the guys, but I’d like you to 
use Mel. It’ll help keep me in the present when I’m working with 
you."
"No problem, Mel. Please call me Walter. I think this situation 
deserves our first names. Besides, like you said, it helps to keep 
this in the present and not back there."
They continued talking for a short time. Skinner filled him in on 
what the doctor had said, and surprising himself, also told him of 
the problems he had encountered with Mulder caring for him.
"Walter, don’t be so hard on yourself. Being dependent on 
someone else is difficult, you’re bound to be grumpy at times. 
Mulder knows that. I know that. It’ll be okay." He looked towards 
the stairs. "I need to get back to the Gunmen, I’ve got to finish 
writing an article for our next edition."
He crossed to the staircase. "Mulder, I’m going to go now."
Mulder quickly came down the stairs. "Everything okay?" He 
looked back and forth between the two men, trying to discern if 
they’d decided to accept Frohike’s help.
"Everything’s fine. I’m glad you recommended Mel. I think this is 
going to work well."
Mulder tried not to show his surprise at the name Mel. "Good. 
Another problem solved." He turned to Frohike, "Thanks for 
coming over. I’ll stay in touch, and I’ll definitely let you know if 
we’re going to need you." He walked Frohike to the door, and 
locked it for the night.
"Sounds like you two hit it off."
"We did. I’m glad you thought of him. Even if we don’t need his 
help, I think I’d like to have him visit. He seems to genuinely care 
about people, and we did discover a few interests in common."
"That’s a relief. My next suggestion was going to be to buy a 
bunch of diapers for you to use if I had to step out for few 
hours." Mulder smirked as he said this.
"God, no! Don’t even joke about that! Man, now that awful image 
is in my head. Mrs. Scully would be a better solution." Walter 
closed his eyes and shook his head. "I can’t believe you’d even 
suggest that."
"Yeah, well I guess I was getting desperate."
"Hey, did Scully send the files?"
Mulder nodded his head, "I’ve got them upstairs. I printed them 
out, but I haven’t had time to read all of them yet. Should I bring 
them down here?"
"Please, I’d like to take a look at them."
The two men read and discussed the files for several hours. 
Mulder was surprised at the depth of information Skinner 
offered. He should have known the man had been a good agent, 
he’d discussed enough cases with him in Skinner’s role as 
Assistant Director. His comments and analysis were right on the 
mark. Unfortunately, neither of them could offer anything new to 
Scully’s notes. They decided to call it a night. 
***
"Mulder, do you mind adding one more thing to our nightly 
routine?"
"I guess not. What did you have in mind?"
"I usually floss my teeth before I brush them at night. I hate to get 
out of the habit. I’ll understand if you don’t want to, though."
"No, that’s okay. I just hope I can do it without hurting you. I 
sometimes have trouble flossing my own teeth." He went into the 
bathroom and came out with Walter’s floss. "Let’s see what I can 
do." He sat next to Walter on the bed. He broke off a length of 
floss, wrapped the ends around his fingers and leaned towards 
Walter who obediently opened his mouth as wide as possible. 
Fortunately, the flossing was not as difficult as Mulder as feared. 
However, as he peered inside Walter’s mouth, trying to work his 
way around his back teeth, he lost his balance and they ended up 
sprawled across the bed with Mulder on top of Walter.
"Sorry, about that. Are you okay?" he asked as he quickly pulled 
away. He helped Walter back up as well.
"I’m fine. Maybe we should do this on chairs next time."
Mulder laughed, "I think you're right. I think we can do this better 
in the kitchen, the overhead lighting will probably help, too."
Mulder finished the flossing and led Walter to the bathroom. 
There he brushed Skinner’s teeth and took care of the rest of the 
nighttime chores.
Returning to the bedroom, he asked, "Do you want me to read to 
you again tonight?"
Walter’s smile was all the answer he needed. He went to the 
guestroom to change his own clothes and returned to climb into 
Skinner’s bed. An hour later both men were sound asleep.
***
A sharp jab to his mouth woke Mulder. Skinner was thrashing 
about again. He was having another nightmare. "Walter, wake 
up." He grabbed Walter’s arms, just before the right cast could 
glance off his lips again. "Come on, Walter. You’re going to hurt 
yourself." This wasn’t working, the man continued to thrash 
violently. Finally, Mulder rolled him over and slapped his butt. 
Three more hard swats and Walter lay still.
"You hit me again."
"Sorry, believe me, it was not my first choice. Nothing else 
seemed to work."
Walter sat up and looked over as Mulder turned on a lamp. "Hey, 
what happened to your lip?"
"I think it was your right cast. I’m going to put a cold cloth on it 
for a little bit. I’ll be right back." Mulder hurried down to the 
kitchen to get an ice cube. He wrapped it in a wash cloth and 
returned to the bedroom, holding the cold pack against his lip. 
Walter was laying with his back towards him. "Walter, are you 
okay?"
"I’m fine. I can’t believe I did that to you. I think you better sleep 
in the guest room from now on."
"I don’t think that’s a good idea." He put down the cloth, sat next 
to Skinner and pulled the man to his side. "Look, your nightmares 
aren’t going away. I’m afraid you’re really going to hurt yourself. 
If your hand had hit the backboard you could have done some 
major damage. I’m not leaving you alone."
"Yes, you are. I don’t care if I hurt myself, I refuse to chance 
hurting you again."
He shook Walter slightly. "I am not more important than you. So, 
just forget that idea. We can work something out. Let’s think 
about it in the morning. For now, why don’t we do what we did 
the first night."
Walter was still being stubborn. "No. You won’t get any rest like 
that. Just go back to the guestroom. I’ll be fine."
At that, Mulder pulled him into his arms. Skinner tried to move 
away, but Mulder had too firm a grasp. "Stop struggling and listen 
to me. I’m going to turn you over my knees if you don’t settle 
down." At that, Walter became very still. "That’s better. Now, I’m 
going to let you go so I can arrange the pillows and dump this 
cloth in the bathroom. I slept just fine the other night, and I will 
again tonight. I wouldn’t if I went back to the other room because 
I’d be worried about you. Got it?"
"Got it," came Walter’s subdued reply.
After he had arranged the pillow and himself to his satisfaction, 
he pulled Skinner against him and held Skinner’s forearms 
crossed against his chest. "Comfortable?"
"Yes." Skinner squirmed slightly. "Mulder, you wouldn’t really 
have spanked me, would you?"
"Maybe. Just keep that in mind for the future. Now, let’s get some 
sleep."
To Skinner’s surprise, he found himself quickly returning to 
sleep.
***
 
[continued in part 2]