Title: Apollo 1, Chapter 6

Author: Kendall

Fandom: X-Files

Rating: NC-17

Pairing: S/M/K.

Archive: All requests are welcomed

Date: December 26, 2001

Category: AU

Spoilers: None specifically

Warnings: Contains scenes of m/m sex, discipline. If this offends you please *LEAVE NOW*

Disclaimer: Skinner, Mulder, Krycek, Scully and Doggett and the X-File all belong to Chris Carter, 1013 Productions and the Fox Network.

Series: Greek Gods

Summary: The first of Alex's clone is found and a relationship begins.

Apollo 1 (God of Brothers)

Walter Skinner was somewhere between seventh heaven and paradise, he couldn’t tell which. A warm, moist mouth was gently wrapped around his cock and the tongue in that mouth was doing things to him that should be considered illegal, as heroin is considered illegal. He had experimented with marijuana in his youth and in his job had intimate knowledge of what drugs did to ones systems. The tongue playing with his dick was most definitely in the drug category.

He swore he did loose consciousness at one point when his took his entire length and sucked as if his life depended on it.

Walter’s orgasm hit so hard that Fox had to lean back to take the stream filling his mouth. When Walter began to breath again he looked down between his knees and smiled from ear to ear to the sight before him. Fox was looking at him, glassy eyed and with a big goofy grin.

"How was that? As good as Alex?"

Walter took a deep breath and let out a long sigh. He nodded slightly and said, "Oh yeah…it was wonderful Fox…and I never compare…the two of you…you know that…you are both unique…but it was incredible."

"Glad to be of service," Fox said as he draped himself on top of Walter, his as of yet unsatisfied erection caught between the two bodies.

Walter felt the erection and asked, "Can I return the favor?"

Fox looked up and smiled again, "Not yet big guy…I like this cuddling. When Alex is around we tend to cuddle him instead of each other…not that I am complaining…I love cuddling Little Rat but I miss us too. You know what I mean?"

Walter caressed the top of Fox’s head, and said, "I know what you mean Fox, but all things being equal, I’d still rather have him around. But I think when he gets back we should talk about setting up some couple times. You and me, me and Alex and Alex and you. Some quality time."

Jim Skinner, Walter’s brother, had invited Alex to spend three weeks with him in Pennsylvania. Jim was the high school principal for the town of Millford as well as a professor at the University nearby. Alex had told Walter and Fox of his desire to teach and Jim had offered Alex the chance to sit in on some of the summer term classes so he could get an idea of what he would have to look forward to.

The three men had discussed it and unanimously agreed it was a great idea, even if it meant that Alex would be away from his lovers for three whole weeks, the longest time since he had joined the household earlier that year. They trio spoke on the phone at least three times a day and kept up with each other by e-mail as well. Both Fox and Walter could tell that Alex was having a good time attending classes and that he was being looked after by Walter’s folks as well.

"Sounds good to me," Fox murmured sleepily as he cuddled closer and sighed when he felt Walter’s big hand rub slow, gentle circles on his back.

Three hours and two screaming orgasm later, one for Fox and one more for Walter, Skinner began to get ready for work. "What are your plans for the day Fox?" Walter asked as he finished tying his tie.

Fox, who was still on the bed, crumbled sheets wrapped around his long-limbed body, looked up at his lover with a frown, "The same thing I have been doing for the last week, putting the finishing touches on the draft, what else."

"Now Fox, we’ve talked about this. You made a commitment to your publisher that you would have the completed first draft of the book by the first of August. That is in two days and you are almost there. Once they have it, he’ll review it and send it back for changes."

"I know I promised," Fox grumbled, "And I am delivering on that promise…it’s just that…"

"It’s just that you miss Alex. I know babe, so do I but this was a great opportunity for him and we all agreed he shouldn’t pass it up. It is only for one more week. Classes end this Friday and then he’ll be back. He starts his own classes on the twenty-seventh."

Alex had signed up at the local school board and had received a substitute teacher's permit. All he had needed was proof that he had a college degree. After a much soul searching and sleepless night Alex had decided that he did not really want to commit the time to go to school full time in order to get a teaching degree. He wanted the freedom to explore different possibilities and the time to spend with Walter and Fox. Jim Skinner had then suggested the idea of substitute teaching and they had all agreed it would be the best solution.

Fox grinned wickedly as he said, "We are going to have to take him back-to-school shopping you know that don’t ya?"

Walter grinned back and shook his head at Fox’s ability to change his mood so quickly, "Fox, Alex is not a little kid, you have to stop treating him like one."

"Oh like you just don’t love pampering him and spoiling him rotten," Fox guffawed. "He has you wrapped around his pinky finger."

Walter bent over to kiss Fox good-bye and said, "He deserves a little pampering. He’s had a hard life."

Fox wrapped his arms around Walter’s neck and pulled him down on top of him, "I know Walter. I don’t begrudge him any time with you. You spoil me rotten too."

"The feeling is mutual babe," Walter said and dipped his head for one more kiss, "Tell you what. I’ll try to wrap up early tonight and then we can spoil each other rotten and split Alex’s share between us."

Fox’s smile lit up the room, "You’ve got a deal. I’ll make sure I finish the draft and send it out today, then I will be able to pay attention to you one hundred percent."

"If you talk to Alex give him my love," Walter said as he walked out of the room, "I’ll be in meetings most of the day and in conference calls the rest of the time so I might not be able to call him. Tell him I miss his pretty face and his luscious lips and his deep green eyes and…"

A pillow flew across the room and Fox shouted, "Walter you bastard…you are making me hard and leaving for work. You are a sadist."

Walter closed the door behind him with a laugh but quickly opened it again and stuck his head in, "And his little elf ears and that cute little nose of his and…his cute little tushy and…"

"Arrghghgh."

The owner of all the body parts Walter Skinner had teased Fox Mulder with was at that moment standing in the shower under a stream of very cold water trying to get his rampart erection to go down. Most mornings he woke up with an erection caused by his dreaming of his far-away lovers. And most mornings he had the luxury of jerking himself off in the shower before getting ready to go to school. This morning however he had overslept, something he hadn’t done in years, and now had to rush to take care of his little, although really not so little problem, before Walter’s mother or father came to check on him as they often did in the morning.

A soft knock on the door interrupted his hurried attempts to ejaculate and he said between gritted teeth, "Yes?"

Walter Skinner Sr.’s voice came through the door and asked, "Are you alright Alex? Jim will be here in forty-five minutes."

Trying not to let on what he was doing and shivering uncontrollably under the freezing water, Alex managed to squeak out, "Sor…sorry sir…I overslept…I’ll be right down."

Walter Sr. smiled, quite familiar with the sounds coming from the bathroom, after all he had raised four sons, so he said, "I’ll tell Sarah to keep you breakfast warm. Just finish what you are doing and come down when you are ready son."

Alex could feel himself blush even under the cold water and said, "Yes Dad…thanks." When he heard the bedroom door close he gave one last stroke to his penis and sighed with relief as a strong stream of cum started to flow and intermingle with the water.

Five minutes later Alex was out of the shower and standing in front of the mirror trying to decide if what he was wearing looked right. A knock on the door brought him out of his deep thoughts. "Come in."

Sarah Skinner opened the door and walked in. She smiled at Alex and said, "Don’t tell me you are still trying to decide what to wear. You go through this every morning."

Alex blushed and said, "I’m used to wearing jeans, a tee-shirt and my leather jacket. Walter and Fox helped me pick out all these clothes but I just don’t know what goes well with what."

"Fox helped you pick out the clothes? I thought Walter told me he was color blind?"

Alex smiled and said, "Okay, so Fox just came to the mall with us and helped carry the stuff back to the car. Walter wouldn’t let him pick any of the clothes."

"What you have on is fine dear," Sarah said, "Come down to breakfast when you are ready. I made pancakes, your favorite, with blueberries."

Beaming Alex said, "Thank you. I’ll give Fox a quick call to say hi and I will be right down."

"Say hello from me and tell him I hope he is working hard on his book so he and Walter can come up this weekend."

"I will Mom," Alex said and gave her a quick kiss. Alex had been calling her Mom and Walter’s father Dad since they had visited the farm for the first time during the Fourth of July holiday. Now he used the terms with ease and felt completely comfortable with the older couple. They treated him like family and he felt a deep sense of gratitude for the feeling of belonging. He finished getting dressed and dialed the number to the Skinner-Mulder-Krycek residence. "Hi Fox it’s me…"

"I’ve told you never to call me at home," Fox said whispering urgently, "My lovers are very jealous men. They will tear you apart if they knew we…"

"Fox?"

"Oh Alex it’s you," Fox said in mock surprise.

"Very funny Foxling," Alex said laughing at his lover’s antics, "I know we have caller ID and you knew it was me all along. Besides I would have thought Walter and I were enough for you."

"But you aren’t here are you?" Fox said jokingly.

Alex didn’t reply for a moment and then very quietly said, "I’m sorry Fox…you are right…"

Fox could have kicked himself. He knew that no matter how many times Walter and he explained to Alex that he was truly and completely a member of their family and embedded deeply in both their hearts, the younger man always had a nagging doubt in the back of his head that told him it was all temporary. Fox guessed that Alex had had so many disappointments in his life, he lived expecting everything to vanish at any moment. "Alex my love, I’m sorry for what I said. I would never, in a million years, look at another man when I have you and Walter. You both complete me. I was just joking sweetheart."

"It’s okay Fox," Alex said his voice still subdued. "Did I miss Walter?"

"Yes he just left for work, but he told me to tell you he misses you."

"I miss both of you too, but I’ll see you in a few days. You are still planning on coming this weekend right?"

"Of course. I’ll be sending the draft out today so I don’t have to worry about it for a while. Walter said he could get out early on Friday afternoon so we will be there by early evening. Then we will all drive back on Sunday night."

"Can’t wait. I don’t have much time to talk…Jim is picking me up in a little while and I still have to eat breakfast."

"I’m sure Mom is making you eat three square meals a day. She said you were too skinny."

"Wait till next weekend. She’ll shift her focus to you Beanpole. Give my love to Walter."

"I will Brat," Fox said chuckling. "Oh and by the way the told me to tell you he missed…let me see if I can get this right…uhm…"

"You have an eidetic memory Fox, don’t tell me you forgot," Alex teased.

"Well by the time he finished telling me all the parts of you he missed I was so hard I couldn’t think straight, let alone remember," Fox grumbled good naturedly. "Oh yes now I do remember. He said to tell you he missed your pretty face and luscious lips and deep green eyes and…that’s when I threw a pillow at him and then he added he missed your little elf ears and that cute little nose of yours and…your cute little tushy and…"

"Fox stop," Alex said laughing, "I get the picture. Tell him I miss all his body parts and yours too. Oh and by the way…I don’t have little elf ears. Gotta go…Mom is calling me for breakfast. Bye…I love you."

"Bye baby," Fox said and hung up the phone with a deep sigh. He missed his little rat and all the body parts mentioned, but especially the one that had not.

Walter had not mentioned anything about Alex’s legs but a pair of legs identical to his lover’s were striding purposefully towards the Deputy Directors office. The man whose those legs belonged to did not notice the stares he was getting as he made his way down the corridors of the Hoover building. Finally arriving at his destination he opened the door to the waiting area and walked to the assistant’s desk and cleared his throat to get Kim’s attention.

"Oh I’m sorry I didn’t…" Kim began to apologize as her eyes locked to the man’s face, "Al…Alex?"

The man in front of her smiled widely, his deep green eyes dancing with amusement at her reaction. He put out his hand and say, "No little lady, my name is Cooper Donovan. I was told I could find a Walter Skinner here. Is this the right place?"

Kim had been staring open mouthed at the man and had to shake her head to regain her senses, "Uhm…oh yes…he…uhm…this is…what I mean…yes this is the office of Deputy Director Skinner. Please take a seat I will let him know you are here…Mr…uhm…Donovan was it?"

"Yes ma’am, Cooper Donovan," the man replied still smiling at her obvious confusion.

Kim knocked softly on the door to Walter’s office and walked in when she heard his voice beckoning her to enter. She took a deep breath and with a quick glance behind her closed the door.

Walter looked up from his paperwork and waited for her to say something but when Kim just stood there with eyes full of confusion he became concerned, "Kim? Is there something you wanted?"

"Sir…there is a man outside waiting to see you…uhm…he…uhm…"

"Well what is it Kim? Who is this mystery man that has you so flustered?" Walter said growing impatient.

"Alex…he…this man he…"

At the mention of his lover’s name Walter became immediately alert, there were still many threats against the former assassin’s life. "What about Alex? Kim what the hell is going on?"

"Sir there is a man outside. He says his name is Cooper Donovan but he looks a lot like Alex…and I mean a lot. It is almost as he could be his twin brother."

Walter froze in shock at her words. A million thought raced through his brain as he tried to comprehend what was going on. The only explanation was of course that it was one of Alex’s clones who was sitting right outside his office. One of the clones they had spent the last several months looking for and that apparently had found them. Walter took a deep breath and then said, "Listen to me carefully Kim. I will explain everything to you very soon, but right now I need you to show Mr. Donovan in and then call Fox and have him get here as soon as possible. He should be on his cell phone. He took Scully and the babies to the pediatrician so he should be close by. Ask them both to come."

"What shall I tell him sir," Kim asked, "Mulder I mean. What reason do I give him to come?"

"Tell him we might have found one of Alex’s brothers. He’ll know exactly what you mean." When he was alone again he took a deep breath to calm himself and mentally steeled himself to face Alex's clone… brother.

Kim escorted Cooper Donovan, Alex's clone brother, into Walter's office. When the young man entered the office Walter could fully understand Kim’s confusion. Except for a couple of differences in hair and clothes style, the man was a carbon copy of Alex Krycek, down to the dimples when he smiled. The hair was longer, reaching down nearly to the shirt collar. It was worn to the side and over the ears. The skin was a deep bronze, obviously tanned from working out in the open air, bringing out the jade green eyes. The man wore a light gray suit, double breasted, with black cowboy boots and had a cowboy hat, also black on his left hand, a left hand of flesh and blood, another difference between this man and Alex Krycek.

"Deputy Director Skinner," Donovan was saying as he put out his hand to shake, "I’m sorry to have just dropped in so unexpectedly but I’m sure after I explain why I am here you’ll understand why I did it. May I sit down."

"Please. I’m sorry I didn’t mean to be rude, it’s just that…well to be quite honest with you…uhm…I’m not sure how to put this but…let’s say I am in shock at the moment."

"Well if what I have been reading this past few weeks is true then I can see why having me here in person would indeed by a shock to you."

"I think the best thing to do is for you to tell me what brought you here and then we’ll go from there," Walter said taking a seat across from the man as they both sat in the couches in the office.

"I own a ranch in Wyoming, quite a large spread, and it keeps me quite busy. This past winter I spent most of the time in my cabin in the mountains and then in the field with the spring calves and was out of touch with civilization for a while. Imagine my surprise when I come back and I hear all about this Consortium, aliens, bounty hunters…etc. I felt almost like Rip van Winkle coming into a different world when I came back. The television and newspapers had the whole story, with every detail and graphic description. I saw pictures of you and of Fox Mulder, Dana Scully and the others. And then a month ago I see the coverage on the congressional hearings and see a man who looks exactly like me testifying about his involvement in the whole mess."

Throughout Cooper’s speech Walter had remained silent, watching every move and gesture the man made as well as listening to his voice. He could pick out some of Alex’s mannerism easily, like the way he cocked his head to the side or dipped his chin. But the thing that had Walter enthralled were Cooper’s eyes. They were the same intense green, surrounded by long black lashes that fell and rose with maddeningly slowness as he spoke. "I can understand how that would be a shock to you. I know it was a shock to us and to Alex when we found out that he had…brothers."

"Is that what we are? Brothers I mean. I don’t know how that can be possible…my parents never mentioned having had twins. I don’t really think that is something they would conveniently forget to tell me. How can this man…Alex Krycek…be my brother? Were we separated at birth? Are you sure he just isn’t someone who looks like me?"

"We are quite sure Mr. Donovan. We have done a lot of research on the subject."

"Wait a minute…you said that you were shocked to find out that Alex had…brothers…plural. Does that mean you think there is another twin somewhere?" Cooper asked, his eyes wide.

"Yes…we think there are, but I would feel more comfortable discussing this with my partner Fox Mulder and Dana Scully present. They are more knowledgeable on the subject that I am. Dana Scully is a doctor and can give you more of the medical details."

"Mr. Skinner, what exactly is your relationship with Alex Krycek? I don’t mean to be so forward but I am curious to find out more about this man you think is my brother."

Walter took a deep breath before answering. He was not sure he felt comfortable sharing information about Alex with this man who he just met. Hell he wasn’t sure he should be talking to the man at all without Alex being present but the man was here and Alex was not. "Mr. Donovan, it would be easier if you first tell me what you know about Alex…what you think you know at least…from what you have read and seen on television."

"At first I dismissed any thought that we could be related. As I told you my parents never mentioned me having any brothers. Both of them are deceased now so I could not call them to ask. I have read about Mr. Krycek’s involvement with the Resistance and how he was instrumental in defeating the invasion. But I also read about what he is…a paid assassin, a triple agent who sold out his country, a liar and a cheat. This was not exactly someone I would want to be associated with but I was just too curious to give up finding out why he looks so much like me. I figured that since you and Fox Mulder were just as instrumental as Alex Krycek in stopping the colonization plans I could talk to one of you. I thought approaching you here at the FBI would be the safest bet. I didn’t think showing up at your front door would be wise."

"I appreciate your restrain Mr. Donovan and yes it would not have been wise to just show up…we…" Walter was interrupted from ending his sentence by the door opening and Fox and Dana rushing in.

"Walter we got here as quickly as we…" Fox began but stopped immediately as soon as he saw Cooper. Fox’s mouth dropped open in disbelief and even Scully’s eyes widened in surprise.

"Fox Mulder, Dana Scully this is Cooper Donovan," Walter said by way of introduction.

When both Fox and Dana came out of their shock they shook hands with Cooper and took a seat. "Oh my God…it’s uncanny how much they look alike…" Fox said awed.

"Fox…Mr. Donovan has some questions regarding Alex that I though would be best answered by you or Dana. You know…the more medical questions. As far as the personal questions Mr. Donovan, I guess we can tell you now that Fox is here."

"Before you said that you wanted to discuss this when your partner Fox Mulder got here," Cooper said slowly, "I guess you didn’t mean your business partner."

"No Mr. Donovan. Fox is not my business partner he is my life partner, my significant other if you wish," Walter said without hesitation and with obvious pride.

Cooper looked from one man to the other and was not surprised to see Fox Mulder smiling shyly at the big bald man sitting next to him. Dana Scully also looked pleased but when he locked eyes with him, Cooper got the distinct impression that she was daring him to say something about the relationship the two men shared. "I see…I am a big believer of the philosophy, ‘live and let live’, but that doesn’t answer my question about Alex Krycek and what you can tell me about him."

"We can tell you a lot about him Mr. Donovan," Fox said, "We know a great deal about him and what he has had to do to stay alive. We know what his involvement is…was with the Consortium, the Resistance etc. And we are learning more about him every day. Alex is our partner as well, mine and Walter’s."

Cooper leaned back into the couch and took a deep breath as he once again surveyed the trio in front of him. He had not been prepared to hear such intimate details about this man that had his face but he was in for a penny in for a pound. "Very well Mr. Mulder, I guess then you can be considered experts on Alex Krycek, so you would be able to explain to me how it is that I have a twin brother that I never knew about."

"Mr. Donovan, would it be possible if we were to discuss this somewhere else," Walter said quickly, "I have two more meetings today and several more calls. If you could go with Fox and Dana somewhere to have lunch they could probably answer all your questions, then tonight we can meet at our home and talk some more if you’d like. Fox would that be alright."

"Yes Walter that is a great idea. I think Mr. Donovan will need all the time he can spare to absorb all we have to tell him."

"Will I be meeting Mr. Krycek at your home tonight," Cooper asked as he stood.

"No. Alex is at my folks home in Pennsylvania," Walter explained, "He is attending some summer courses at the University to see if he likes it."

"I guess that it is for the best that I don’t meet him today. After I listen to what you have to say I might not wish to meet him at all."

Walter, Fox and Dana all looked at each in surprise. It had not occurred to any of them that one of Alex’s brothers might not want anything to do with him once they found out what his life had been like.

"Mr. Donovan," Fox said, "If after we tell you the whole story you decide you don’t want to meet Alex so be it…but make no mistake about it, if you so much as think of hurting him in any way, shape or form, I would suggest you think twice. Alex Krycek has paid his dues ten times over. He deserves happiness and a family. Walter and I are trying to give him that. Walter’s folks and his siblings are trying to give him that and Dana and her family as well. I would rather have him think that we could never find you that have him think we did and you rejected him. He has had enough rejection in his life."

"I can see you feel very strongly about this Mr. Mulder," Cooper Donovan said giving him a small smile, "Believe me, I have no intention of hurting your Mr. Krycek. I am curious, that’s all. If I find out that I cannot live with the information you give me I will leave. Go back to Wyoming were I have lived for the last thirty-five years without a brother. But if I find that I want to pursue a relationship with him then I would hope I have your support."

"Fair enough Mr. Donovan, fair enough," Walter said extending his hand, "I hope to see you later tonight."

Dana escorted Cooper out and Fox remained behind to talk to Walter. When they were alone he asked, "Walter do you think it is wise not to let Alex know about Donovan…I know what I said about us not wanting to know he was rejected but I don’t want him to think we kept anything from him."

"Let’s wait till tonight. After you have told him everything you have to tell him we can make a decision on what to do. Cooper Donovan doesn’t strike me as an unreasonable man."

"Its funny you know," Fox said chuckling, "I never could picture Alex with long hair and wearing cowboy boots with a suit."

Walter could not help but chuckle as well, "And the slow drawl he speaks with. I can’t picture Alex with a drawl. You better get going…and Fox try to be sensitive how you tell him things. It is going to be a big shock to him to find out he is a clone."

Fox gave him a mock look of hurt and said, "Walter Skinner you wound me, I am the poster boy for sensitivity…besides Scully will be with us…" he added grinning.

"By the way were are the boys?"

"Oh Maggie came with us. She took them home when we got your call. I was planning on taking Scully to lunch anyway. I'll call you later and let you know how it went." He gave the older man a deep kiss and left to join Scully and a man he hoped he would get to know better.

With every passing moment that Mulder spent with Cooper Donovan the more the man reminded him of Alex. He, like Walter had been able to pick out the similar mannerisms, but as Scully explained the cloning and what they knew about the early life of the clones, Mulder realized that it was not only physical traits the clones shared but mental ones as well. Fox took notice of how Cooper’s eyes became wary as he quietly listened to Scully’s description of the process. When he asked a question, and there were many, his voice was low and husky, as if he were trying to process the information slowly and carefully. Even his body language was similar to Alex’s as he crossed his arms over his chest as if trying to protect himself from harm.

"I know this is a lot of information to process in such a short time Mr. Donovan," Dana Scully said as she pushed a folder across the table towards him. "This is a summary Mulder and I put together on Alex’s life and the cloning aspect is well detailed. Walter and Fox felt that it would come in handy if we ever did find Alex’s brothers."

"Don’t you mean clones," Cooper said sarcastically, again sounding just like Krycek. "How can we be brothers if we are in fact the same person."

"I know it is hard to understand, after all cloning is supposed to only have happened with a sheep and human cloning is something that might happen in the distant future and not nearly forty years ago. The fact of the matter is that it happened," Fox said as tactfully as he could although all he really wanted to know was what the man in front of him planned to do about meeting Alex. "Will you like some time to go over the file. Read it at your leisure and if you have any questions contact myself, Dana or Walter."

Cooper Donovan eyed the file in front of him and slowly picked it up. Nodding his head slowly he said, "I think that is for the best. I have a lot of thinking to do. Somehow I am having a harder time accepting that I am a…uhm…clone that accepting all the other information about Alex Krycek. I need to figure out what it all means to me and to my life."

"I understand," Fox said nodding his head, "Please remember what I said. If you don’t feel you can live with knowing Alex…just leave, go home and don’t let him know you don’t want him. I really don’t want to pick up the pieces again. Walter and I still have to tread lightly when it comes to Alex’s emotional psyche."

"Tell you what Mr. Mulder. I need to leave for home by Wednesday. I will go over the file tonight and if I could I would like to meet you and Mr. Skinner for dinner to give you my decision."

"Why don’t you come to the house," Fox suggested, "We could talk more privately there. Here are the directions and the phone number. Around eight?"

"Could we make it nine? I have to make some calls to the ranch and finish some business."

"Do you think that six hours are enough for you to make such an important decision," Scully asked.

"You have both given me a very thorough report here Dr. Scully. The only thing I have to think about is whether or not I want to pursue a relationship with Mr. Krycek. I don’t plan to tell anyone about this cloning issue so there is nothing more I want to know about that."

"Then we will see you at nine tonight," Fox said.

"If you leave by six you’ll be home by nine."

"Uh…what?" Alex said surprised.

"I said that if you leave by six you’ll be back home by nine," Jim Skinner said as he pulled into the driveway of his folk's home. "Your mind has not been here all day, and I have a pretty good idea where it has been."

Alex flushed in embarrassment and ducked his head, "I’m sorry…I was a little preoccupied with something that Fox said this morning. I’ll do better tomorrow, I promise."

Jim turned to his passenger and smiled, "Alex, there is only four more days till the end of the term. You will not be missing much if you go home today. You could surprise Walter and Fox. You can leave Murphy at my folks and pick him up when you come back for the weekend." Murphy was Alex’s Rottweiler puppy, who was staying with him at the farm.

Alex smiled at the thought of spending the night back in his lover’s arms and said, "I really appreciate all you’ve done for me Jim. I know you didn’t have to do it and…"

"Alex it was my pleasure. I know this is hard for you to believe but I like you…both you and Fox. You make my brother happy…and it’s been a long time since I’ve seen him happy."

"I hope that if I ever find my brothers they are as understanding as you are Jim."

"Why don’t we go in so you can let the folks know you are going home today. You, Walter and Fox still plan on coming this weekend right?"

"Oh yes. Your Mom has been looking forward to it. I wouldn’t want to disappoint her."

"Well then come on. You have to pack and get on the road in the next hour or so if you want to make it home at a reasonable hour."

"This was a bad idea Walter," Fox said pacing back and forth in the family room. "We should have called Alex and told him to come home. What if Donovan decides not to meet him…then what? I don't think I can keep something like this from him."

Walter, who had been sitting on the couch watching his lover pace, stood and grabbed Mulder by the shoulders to stop him, "Fox calm down. You weren't this jittery before. You said everything had gone alright at lunch."

"It did…but for the first time in my life I couldn't get a clean reading of what Donovan is going to do."

Walter chuckled and pulled Fox into a hug, "You couldn't read Alex all the time either could you. Besides what is the fun in figuring people out if you could read them so easily."

"You didn't seem to mind when I worked for you," Fox said in a huff and pushed Walter away. "Leave me alone Walter I have a lot of thinking to do."

Walter frowned, reached out and grabbed Fox by the arm and turned him around. Mulder started to protest and was further shocked by Walter pulling him under one arm and bending him at the waist.

"Walter! What the fuck…owww…stop…ouch…owww, damn it Walter" Mulder cried as Walter landed six sharp swats to his backside. When Walter released him, Fox stepped back and glared daggers at his lover, "What the hell did you do that for?"

"I wanted to give you something else to think about other than what Donovan is going to decide," Walter said smiling pleasantly at Fox's outraged expression, "Did it work?"

Fox held the glare for another five seconds before breaking into a rueful grin, "Yeah it worked. But you are still a bastard for hitting me."

"It was just a little love tap," Walter said and leaned in to kiss him, but all he got was air as Fox turned to look at the clock over the fireplace.

"He said he would be here by nine right?"

Walter sighed in defeat and said, "Yes. It’s only eight fifteen, we’ve got some time."

"What do you think he’ll say?"

"I’m not sure Fox, but I hope he decides he wants to meet Alex."

"Yeah…me too. I think Alex needs to feel connected to someone. He feels connected to us and to your family but it is not the same thing. I don't know what we'll do if Donovan rejects him."

Walter was finally able to wrap his arms around his lover and pulled him into a tight hug, "I know Fox…I know. It’s going to be a really hard call. I think we need to wait and see what Donovan says before we get ourselves all worked up."

"You are right of course," Fox said nodding his head, "We’ll wait to see if and when we tell Alex."

"If and when you tell me what?"

Walter and Fox turned to the doorway in complete shock at the sound of Alex’s voice. In unison, the best they could come up with was "SHIT!"

Alex smiled broadly and said, "Surprise! Honeys I’m home."

Both men looked at each other in panic and then back at the now concerned looking Krycek. Walter released Fox and walked to Alex and pulled him into a bone crushing hug, "Alex what are you doing home? Did something happen?"

"No," Alex gasped, "Walter…you…you are crushing me…big guy." When Walter loosened his hold Alex added, "Jim said I could come home and surprise you. There was nothing much going on and he knew I was missing you guys…but I guess you weren’t missing me too much. You don’t look too happy to see me."

"You just took us by surprise," Fox said quickly, "As a matter of fact Walter why don’t you take Alex upstairs and show him just have much we’ve missed him while I wait here for the…uhm…for the…"

"Pizza…for the pizza we ordered," Walter suggested, "Yes, Fox I think that is a wonderful idea. Come on Alex."

Alex was too confused to argue as he was tugged unceremoniously behind Walter, as the bigger man took the stairs two at a time. When they arrived at the bedroom Walter pushed Alex in ahead of him and by the time the younger man turned around to ask what the hell had gotten into his lovers, Walter had stripped down to the skin and was about to jump him.

"Walter," Alex squealed as the big man knocked him over onto the bed, "Wa…Walt…Walter? Slow down, what the hell has gotten into…oh…oh…my God…stop…stop…don’t…don’t stop…" Alex lost his train of thought as Walter expertly pushed his sweater upwards and attached his lips to Alex’s left nipple.

Almost as soon as the attack on his senses started it abruptly finished as Walter pulled back and looked guiltily at the mark he had left on his lover’s chest. Walter stood up and backed away from the bed as he ran his hand over his bare scalp. "Alex, I’m sorry…I can’t do this."

Alex propped himself up on his elbow and looked at Skinner with nothing short of bewilderment, "What the hell are you talking about Walter? One minute you are about to eat me alive and the second you pull back. What did I do?"

"You didn’t do anything…it’s me…me and Fox. We have something to tell you and we are going about it all wrong."

Alex paled visibly at the words. He swallowed hard before asking the question he didn’t want to ever ask, "Are…are you finally sick of me…is that it? You can’t figure out how…how to tell me to leave?"

Walter spun around to face him, complete shock evident in his face, "WHAT! What in heaven’s name gave you that idea? Do you really think so little of Fox’s and my love for you that you think we would ever do anything like that to you. Gods Alex, don’t you know how much we love you."

Alex’s eyes glistened with tears and then said, "Walter I’ve had thirty eight and a half years to get used to the idea that I’m unlovable. I’ve only had six months to get used to the idea that I might be loved. You have to understand that I might still have doubts."

Walter rejoined him on the bed and pulled him into a gentle embrace, "I’m sorry I didn’t phrase my words better baby. Fox and I love you so much we don’t want to ever see you hurt. We have something to tell you that might cause you pain. We were just trying to figure out the best way of doing it."

"It might. You mean you aren’t sure?" Alex asked tentatively, curious as to what it could be his lovers were finding hard to tell him. "What is it?"

"Tell you what. Why don’t you take a shower and I will go downstairs to talk to Fox. I’ll tell him I think we need to tell you what’s been going on and then you can join us. Okay?"

"Fine, but I think you need to pay for that little display you just put on," Alex said heading towards the bathroom, "You were trying to deceive me by having sex with me and then you leave me hanging."

Walter had the decency to look ashamed as he said, "You are right Alex. I handled it all wrong…but I'm sure when we explain…"

"Yeah Walter I'm sure when you explain it to me it'll make me fell all warm and fuzzy," Alex said sadly as he opened the door to the bathroom.

"Shit" Walter said and ran his hand over his scalp in exasperation at himself for having hurt Alex. He quickly glanced at his watch and saw that it was twenty-five to nine and he didn't have much time. "Alex you are absolutely right, I did something totally stupid and thoughtless. I think you should punish me. Now…I think you should do it now so we can get it over with."

Alex looked at Walter with confusion and said, "I…I don't feel right doing it without talking about it with Fox."

"Fox has nothing to do with this Alex. It was my idea to distract you the way I did. So where do you want me?"

"Walter…it's alright…I don't want to punish you anymore, I know you are sorry…"

"No Alex…I don't want this hanging between us. I saw how much I hurt you."

"Uhm…what do you suggest?"

Looking down at his naked body and then back at Alex, Walter said, "Well since I seemed to be dressed, or should I say undressed for the occasion, I think you know what comes next."

"This is surreal Walter," Alex said shaking his head, "I came home early to surprise you and Fox and suddenly we are here discussing punishment. And why the hell do you keep looking at your watch."

"Well the pizza should be here soon and I just…" Walter said shrugging his big shoulders. "So what do you say?"

"You sure about this Walter?" Alex said still doubtful, but when Skinner nodded he added, "Okay. If you insist'. Alex waited for Walter to drape himself over his lap and added, "What's this spanking for Walter?

Because it beats me."

"I hurt you Alex. I lied to you and I scared you. I'm…shit Alex…that hurt."

"Well you asked for it," Alex said and landed another hard slap on Walter's previously unblemished buttock.

"Yeah…but…damn…owww…but I thought…you'd…damn it…I thought you weren't…into it…shit….ouch."

"Well I really won't pass up a chance to have your naked, wriggly body on my lap," Alex said pleasantly as he landed a couple of more spanks.

"Owwww…Alex…I'm…sorry…I'm sorry…please stop…ouch…God Alex stop…please…owwweee…I'm sorreee."

"Okay, I think, you've had enough," Alex said and help the now sore Skinner to stand up and pulled him into a tight hug. "Feel better?"

"Define better," Walter said making a face and rubbing his bottom vigorously, "Man Alex I'd hate to think how hard you'd spank if you were into it. I am sorry you know."

"I know…hell I knew when you told me," Alex said kissing Walter's lips gently, "You are the masochist who wanted to feel forgiven. So did that do it for you?"

"Yeah…it did," Walter said and returned the kiss, "How about we take that shower together."

"I can handle that," Alex said and smiled.

While Walter and Alex had been having their talk upstairs, Fox had gone out to the street to wait for the arrival of Alex’ brother. He didn’t have long to wait as he saw the yellow taxi approaching. He had called ahead to the guard gate and told them to allow the taxi in. He hadn’t wanted Alex to grow suspicious if the phone rang.

Donovan stepped out of the cab and paid his fare, turning to face Fox, with a friendly smile on his face. "Mr. Mulder you didn’t have to wait for me the curb. I do know how to ring a doorbell. We do have them in Wyoming too."

Fox smiled, despite his worry and said, "I’m sure you do, but something has happened and I thought it would be better if I caught you here. Alex came home earlier than we expected. He is upstairs with Walter now."

"Oh…I see," Cooper said slowly, "I guess you haven’t told him about me then."

"Walter and I agreed to do it after we spoke to you tonight. I didn’t know how you would feel about meeting Alex…or even if you wanted to…so I thought I give you the chance to back out now."

Cooper looked at the taxi that was still parked behind him and then back at Fox. He stepped over to the taxi and leaned in to talk to the driver. A moment later the cab pulled away from the curb and drove away.

"I had asked him to pick me up at eleven. I figured a couple of hours would be enough to talk to the both of you and tell you what I decided. I just told the driver that I would call him since I was meeting my brother and it could take longer than a couple of hours."

It took Fox a couple of seconds to understand the meaning behind Cooper’s words, but once he did, his smile lit up the night. "You mean…you want to meet Alex?"

"Don’t I only want to meet him…I want to get to know him," Cooper said smiling back. "Mr. Mulder, I’m an only child…or thought I was. I always wanted to have a brother, and now that I find out that I do have one I’m not about to give up without at least talking to him. Heck, for all I know he will not want anything to do with me."

"If you had seen his face the night he figured out that he had brothers, you would not have any doubt that he wants to meet you. I do have to warn you though, Alex’s emotions are some times hard to figure out right away. He is very good at keeping them hidden."

"I’ll keep that in mind," Cooper promised, "Now how about taking this inside. I’m sure your neighbors will have enough to talk about tomorrow, seeing you with a man that looks like your lover."

Fox smiled and both men walked towards the house, "You seem to be okay with the idea that your brother is in a relationship with two men."

"I do have some questions I would like to ask you about that but it can wait," Cooper said as he followed Fox into the house.

At that moment Walter was coming down the stairs and stopped when he saw Cooper behind Fox. "Alex is upstairs getting dressed. He will be down in a couple of minutes. I told him we would tell him what was going on Fox…I couldn’t lie to him."

"I know Walter," Fox said understanding, "I had already decided to tell you I thought we should tell him the truth even if Cooper decided not to meet him. But that is no longer an issue."

Walter looked at Fox questioningly and then at Cooper, "It’s not? You mean…"

"Yes, he wants to meet Alex. Why don’t we go into the living room and then we can go get…" Fox began but stopped abruptly as the subject of the conversation appeared at the top of the stairs.

Alex stood, wearing sweatpants and a tee shirt, a few steps behind Walter, his eyes locked on the man standing besides Fox. Alex expression was unreadable but his eyes flickered with a variety of emotions. There was surprise, elation, fear and pain all mixed in the look he was giving his twin.

Walter was the first to react as he walked up the few steps to join his lover. "Alex…this is what we were trying to figure out how to tell you," Walter said softly, almost as if he were afraid Alex would bolt. "You okay Alex?"

Alex shifted his gaze from Cooper to Walter’s face and saw the worry etched on the features he so loved. He gave a tentative nod and then turned back to look at Cooper.

"Uhm…why don’t we take this to the living room," Fox suggested. "We’ll be more comfortable there."

Walter took hold of Alex’s hand and tugged him gently behind him towards the bottom of the stairs. "Alex this is Cooper Donovan…your…brother."

Cooper, who had been silent so far, stretched out his hand tentatively towards his look-alike. He saw Alex look down at the hand as if unsure of what to do but then carefully stretch out his own hand and grasp his. "I’m glad to finally meet you Alex. I’ve heard and read a lot about you."

At this, Alex released Cooper’s hand and pulled back a step, his eyes hooded as if expecting a blow. "I…I gotta go…" he said suddenly and ran out the front door before any of the three men could react.

"Alex wait…" Fox said rushing out the door behind his lover as Alex ran out.

"Wait Mr. Mulder, let me go," Cooper said putting a restraining hand on Fox’s arm. "Where would he go?"

"He ran in the direction of the park. It is three blocks away on the other side of the street. There is a large willow tree near the center. He likes to go there and read when he takes his dog for a walk."

"I think it is better if we work this out ourselves. I have a cell phone and your number. I will call if I can’t find him, but if you don’t hear from me, assume I did find him and we are talking…or maybe he killed me, one of the two."

Walter was aghast at the idea that Cooper Donovan thought that Alex was capable of doing him harm but then he caught the glimmer of amusement in the green eyes and knew the other man had just been trying to break the tension. "Go easy on him Cooper, he might not react to you the way you think he should."

"I’ll keep it in mind," Cooper promised and headed out the door.

"Walter what are we going to do?" Fox asked as Walter pulled him into a hug, "I don’t think Alex can handle this emotional overload by himself."

"He won’t be by himself Fox. He will have us…and his brother. Let's go get some food ready for when they get back."

"Walter? Why are you walking funny?" Fox said as he noticed Skinner wince as he walked.

"Uhm…well…uhm…" Walter said and blushed a deep red.

"Walter?"

"I kind of did something that Alex didn't appreciate and paid the price for it. It's all right. Let's go."

"Not until you tell me what you did."

"I tried to keep him from asking any questions by sort of attacking him. I thought that if we were having sex he would forget to ask what's been going on. Then I got a conscience and pulled back and of course that was worse because he thought what we had to tell him was that we didn't want him anymore."

"Poor little rat," Fox said shaking his head, "You did deserve to be punished. I can guess what he did," and with that he pulled at the back of Walter's sweatpants and peered in.

"Fox!" Walter squealed in surprise and slapped his hand away.

"Man Walter your butt looks like two halves of a watermelon. All you are missing are the seeds."

"Very funny Fox," Walter growled, "I thought you were worried about Alex?"

"Being worried about him doesn’t mean I can't look at your hot butt," Fox said and sauntered into the kitchen. Looking back over his shoulder he added, "And I mean hot in more ways than one."

"I haven’t been in one of these things in ages. Mind if I join you?" Cooper asked as he stood next to the swing set he had found Alex sitting at. Cooper had first looked for Alex by the willow tree as Fox had suggested but when he didn’t find him there he went exploring and had found him in the playground.

Alex looked up and shrugged, "Suit yourself."

Cooper took the swing next to the one Alex sat on and began to slowly swing back and forth. Neither man said a word for the next few minutes and Cooper began to gain momentum and swing higher and higher.

Alex watched him wearily and then slowly began to swing also. Soon both grown men were trying to outdo each other to see who could go the highest.

Without warning the swing that Alex was on, creaked and the chain broke. Unfortunately he had been on the upswing and flew several feet forward landing hard in the grass in front of the swing set. As soon as he could, Cooper got off the swing and rushed to him. "Alex? Alex you alright?"

Alex, who had landed face down, rolled over and stared up into the concerned face of his brother. "Yeah, I’m…okay…just got the wind knocked out of me."

Cooper sighed in relief and sat next to him as Alex carefully sat up. "Good. I don’t even want to think what Mr. Skinner and Mr. Mulder would do if I broke you the first time out together."

"Why did you follow me?"

"Isn’t that obvious? I wanted to know if I could beat my little brother in a swing competition."

Alex was surprised by the words and the big smile on Cooper’s lips. The green eyes of his clone were bright with amusement as he looked at him, "We are identical. What makes you think I’m the little brother?"

"According to what Doctor Scully explained to me we would have been implanted in different wombs so as to ensure a better chance of survival. I doubt that all six women gave birth simultaneously."

"You…you know about the others?"

"Mr. Mulder and Doctor Scully were very detailed in their explanation of everything…"

"Everything? So you know all about me," Alex said and glared at his brother defiantly, "I won't say I’m sorry for what I’ve had to do."

"I don’t recall asking you to say anything," Cooper said standing up and putting his hand out, "I think you and I have a lot of talking to do though. What do you say we at least give it a go?"

Alex looked at the hand his brother put out to him and took it hesitantly. When he was back on his feet he dusted the dirt off his jeans. "’Kay…but I got to tell you I’m not too good at all the communication crap. That is what Walter and Fox do best."

"They told me. I don’t have a reputation for being talkative myself."

"Are you really a cowboy or do you just like to wear the boots," Alex asked as the two men started back towards the house.

"I’m a real to goodness cowboy," Cooper said smiling, "Have the scars to prove it too."

"Maybe we can compare scars later," Alex said quietly, "I think mine would beat yours any day."

"Well sometimes the little brother wins," Cooper said and grinned wider at Alex’s annoyed look at being called ‘little brother’ again.

"Walter do you think he is alright? They have been talking for hours," Fox asked worriedly as he lay curled up next to the bigger man.

"The important thing is that they are talking Fox," Walter said rubbing Mulder’s back. "I was afraid that Alex would shut down and not want to give Cooper a chance."

"I’m dying to find out what they are talking about?"

"I’m sure Alex will tell us if he wants to in the morning. And I don’t want you to pressure him in anyway alright?"

"Yes Walter," Fox said none too happy. His investigative sense had not stopped even out of the FBI.

"Now lets get some sleep so we can be bright eyed and attentive when we pump him for information in the morning," Walter said with a wicked smiled.

Fox slapped Walter’s chest playfully and said, "You can be such an ass sometimes Snickerdoodle."

"But ya love me anyway don’t ya," Walter said and rolled over Fox and caught the pouting lower lip with his teeth and then kissed the tip of his nose. "I love you Fox."

"And I love you Walter."

"Are you going to sleep in your clothes?" Cooper asked as he watched Alex settle on one of the twin beds in the guest room.

"What?" Alex asked confused. He sat cross-legged, his back against the wall and was clutching a pillow to his chest as if it were a shield.

"Wouldn’t you be more comfortable without your jacket?"

Alex looked down at his left arm and then back at his brother’s expectant face. "I’m fine," he said quietly.

"You don’t have to hide anything from me Alex," Cooper said kindly, "I am a very determined man. I’ve made up my mind that I want to get to know you and that means warts and all."

Alex put his hand over the spot where his left arm ended and the prosthesis began and said, "This…this is a lot uglier than a wart."

"But it is part of you," Cooper said and took a seat next to Alex, who glanced at him nervously, "Give me a chance Alex…please?"

"Why…how…how can you just find out about me and be so willing to get to know me?"

"Mr. Mulder…"

"Just Mulder," Alex corrected, "You keep calling him Mr. Mulder, he hates that. Just Mulder."

"I’ll keep that in mind," Cooper said grinning, "Mulder, told me you were very excited when you found out that you had brothers. I didn’t have as much time as you to get used to the idea but I am excited Alex… truly I am. It was lonely growing up in the ranch without brothers…hell I would have settled for a sister. You are a heck of a lot better than a sister, even though you don’t want to recognize the fact that you are the little brother." Cooper grinned wickedly at Alex’s frown.

"You won’t give up will ya?" the Russian said with a sigh and giving one more glance to his jacket he began to slowly take it off. Once that was done, he slipped the tee-shirt over his head and pulled it off. He kept his eyes fixed on the far wall, not daring to glance at the man seated next to him, in fear of seeing the disgust on his face. He jumped slightly when he felt a warm hand on his back and said, "Wha…what are you doing?"

"I’m going to help you take this off," Cooper said in a tone that allowed for no argument as he unsnapped the prosthetic loose and grabbed it as Alex pulled it away from his arm. "It’s heavier than I would have thought," Cooper commented as he laid the fake arm on bed next to him.

Alex was still staring at the wall, his lips closed into a thin hard line and the muscles on his back visibly knotted with stress. He was not prepared for what happened next and reacted violently when Cooper ran his hand over his left shoulder and down towards the scarred stump.

Cooper however, was prepared for the reaction and wrapped both his strong arms around Alex, effectively pinning his arms to his side, "Calm down Alex…I’m not going to hurt you. You’ve been hurt enough…I’m not ever going to knowingly hurt you okay? Settle down…relax and settle down."

Alex got his breathing back under control and said, "You…you can let go. I’m not going to hit you." When Cooper released him, Alex glared at him and said, "You are pretty strong…almost as strong as Walter?"

"I wrestle cows for a living little brother," Cooper said chuckling, "You are a lot less of handful." He stood and turned towards the other bed with the intention of changing into the pajamas he was borrowing from Alex. He heard a rustling sound behind him and before he knew what was happening he was on his front, his face against the covers of the bed and his right arm twisted behind him, a knee on his back. "What the fuck do you think you are doing?"

"Just wanted to show you that I can also wrestle and that I am more than a handful," Alex growled in Cooper’s ear before releasing the struggling man.

Cooper turned on his back and stared at the other man with a surprised look on his face. Then a smile broke out on his lips and he said, "Yes you are…you most certainly are. Hell this is going to be a fun ride…getting to know you Alexei Nikolai Krycek."

"You know more about me than I do about you…it’s not fair," Alex groused as he sat back down, "What’s your middle name."

"Actually it is Nicholas. The American variation of your Nikolai."

"That’s strange…I wonder if it means anything."

"I’m too tired to figure it out tonight," Cooper said with a yawn. "Do you mind if we continue this tomorrow?"

"You staying? I thought you had to get back to…your home."

"I have to be back by Thursday. We have a couple of days. That is if you want me to."

Alex reached over and turned off the light, "If you are so hell bent in finding out more about me I guess you’ll need a couple of days," he said grudgingly, not wanting to let the other man know how much the idea of getting to know his long lost brother exited and terrified him at the same time.

"’Night Alex."

"Night Cooper."

"My friends call me Coop. I’d like it if you call me Coop."

Alex was silent for a moment in the darkness and then very quietly said, "‘Night…Coop."

Walter Skinner stirred as he felt the man in his arms move away from him, "Fox…where are you going?"

"I heard noise downstairs Walter," Fox whispered back, "I want to say good morning to Alex and see how he is doing. Go back to sleep."

Walter stretched out and opened one bleary eye, "I called Kim last night and told her I would be in very late today, maybe after one. Remember what we talked about last night. Don’t pressure him."

Fox smirked at Walter as he slipped on his robe over the silk boxers he had worn to bed. "I won’t."

A couple of minutes after Walter heard the door to the bedroom close behind Fox he heard it open again.

"Back so soon?"

"Uh! I didn’t sleep here last night Big Guy," Alex murmured as he climbed on the bed and moved forward to settle next to Walter. "Didn’t you miss me?"

Walter smiled as he wrapped his strong arms around his youngest lover and kissed the side of his face, "More than you’ll ever know my Little Rat. Fox and I tried to behave ourselves last night so we wouldn’t make any noise and bother you and Cooper so all we did is cuddle."

"Oh you poor baby," Alex said with an exaggerated pout, "I’m glad you waited though. I don’t know how Coop would have liked hearing Banshee scream in the throes of an orgasm."

"Speaking of Cooper, how did it go?"

"Went good I guess. Kinda hard to tell after only one night. He says he wants to get to know me…I just hope he doesn’t end up hating me."

"No one who really gets to know you will ever hate you Alex," Walter said and kissed him again, "Is he still sleeping? You guys had a really late night last night."

"No, he gets up at dawn at the ranch so he is up already and is downstairs making breakfast."

"He is downstairs?"

"Yeah why?"

"Because Fox went downstairs thinking it was you. I hope he doesn’t do anything stupid…"

"WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK…" came the shout from downstairs and Walter groaned as he jumped out of the bed.

"What was that?" Alex said jumping up as well.

"Fox just did something stupid. Let’s go see who needs rescuing…although I’m pretty sure I can guess."

Alex and Walter rushed into the kitchen to find their lover seated on the floor, one hand over his left eye as he moaned with pain. Cooper was trying to get him to move the hand, but Fox kept slapping him away.

"What happened?" Walter asked rushing to Fox’s side.

"He grabbed me…he startled me," Cooper said apologetically, "I reacted and punched him in the eye."

Walter helped Fox stand and then sit down at the kitchen counter. "Let me take a look Fox…that a boy…I know it hurts…Fox let me look, come on…"

Cooper looked over at Alex who was staring at him, "I’m sorry Alex…Walter…I just wasn’t expecting him to…uhm…grab me."

"Where did he grab you?" Alex asked, with a good idea of where Fox’s hand had been.

"I thought he was you," Fox grumbled as Walter finally pulled pried his hand away from his swelling eye. "He was bent over looking in the refrigerator and I saw the pajamas and…and…"

"And you decided to grab him by the balls," Alex said smiling wickedly.

"I am so embarrassed," both Fox and Cooper said simultaneously, then realizing what each other had said they laughed.

"It was all my fault Cooper," Fox said smiling, "Please forgive me and don’t think that Walter and I are perverted men who like to go around grabbing other men’s privates."

"I’m not the one that grabbed Fox," Walter said as he placed an ice pack on his lover’s eye, "Cooper doesn’t have to think that about me."

"Gee thanks Saint Walter," Fox said and stuck out his tongue at the older man.

"Well since we are all wide awake now, how about some breakfast," Walter suggested, "Then we can talk about what to do next."

"Coop is staying till Wednesday if that’s alright?" Alex asked suddenly nervous.

Walter looked up at him and smiled widely, "Of course it is alright. This is your home Alex so any brother of your is always welcome."

"Thanks Walt," Alex said beaming, "I hope you feel the same way if we find the other four."

Fox groaned and said as he rubbed his cheek, "I hope the others don’t throw a punch as well as Cooper… man that smarts."

"Well just make sure you keep your hands to yourself the next time," Alex said and hugged Fox from behind, "Remember you are only allowed to grab me or Walter. My brothers are off limits."

"And just in case, may I remind you my brothers are off limit too," Walter said seriously.

Both Alex and Cooper laughed at the shocked expression on Fox’s face. The former FBI Agent spluttered in disbelief as he said, "You are ju…Walter…that is just so not…funny."

Alex looked on quietly as Cooper packed the last of his clothes. They had spent the last two days talking and getting to know each other. Alex could honestly say he had shared more information with his twin that he had probably shared with anyone in his entire life. And after only two days he had to admit that a bond had been formed with the cowboy from Wyoming.

"If I didn't have so much to do at the ranch I'd stay longer Alex," Cooper said as he zipped the bag. "I think there is still a lot of talking we need to do."

A soft knock on the door preceded Walter and Fox’s arrival. "You guys look like you are never going to see each other again," Walter said taking a seat next to Alex as Fox pulled out a chair from the desk. "You’ll keep in touch over the phone and e-mail and Cooper can always come and visit and we can go to Wyoming."

"Really! When?" Alex asked excited at the thought and then composed himself and said, "That would be nice."

"How about next week?" Cooper said suddenly, "You can come for the week before school starts."

"Wow Alex, a week at a ranch. You’ll have so much fun," Fox said grinning. "You are going right? I mean it’ll be a great opportunity. I’ll miss you of course but…"

"Why would you have to miss him Fox," Cooper said, "You and Walter are both welcome to come anytime."

"Walter?" Fox asked.

Walter looked between the three eager faces and putting his arm around Alex’ shoulder said, "I guess I could take a week off…I have about six months leave stacked up. We could leave on Monday…after we visit my folks this weekend…"

"You are serious," Alex said in disbelief, "You mean it…we can really go to Wyoming?"

"Sure why not," Walter said and laughed when Alex launched himself into his arms.

"There is just one problem," Cooper said suddenly serious.

Alex looked crestfallen and said, "What?"

"Do you think you two will be able to keep Fox from grabbing any more crotches that don’t belong to him? My men would not take too kindly to it…if you know what I mean."

Fox rolled his eyes as the other three men burst out laughing and said, "I’m never going to live that one down, am I…you guys are like the Three Stooges. HAHAHAHA!"

"I’ll see you Monday okay…only four more days." Cooper said as he faced Alex next to the boarding gate.

"I know," Alex said quietly. He didn’t like public displays of emotion and was trying hard to appear nonchalant even though his heart was racing. He really didn’t want Cooper to leave.

Fox and Walter had said their good-byes and in an attempt to offer the brothers some privacy had stepped a few feet away from the pair. "They are good men," Cooper said glancing in their direction, "I’m glad someone is taking care of you."

Alex glanced up behind his lashes as said, "I don’t need taking care of…but yeah they are good men."

The announcement for Cooper’s flight came over the loud speaker and the two men stood awkwardly in front of each other, not quite sure what to do next. Cooper sighed deeply as he said, "They are calling my flight Alex…I gotta go. Take care of yourself and I’ll see you Monday night…’kay?" He put out his hand.

Alex looked at the outstretched hand for a second before grasping it in his own and shaking it vigorously. "I’ll be there…we all will."

"Bye," Cooper said and picked up his bag and turned to enter the airplane.

Walter and Fox joined Alex and watched as Cooper made his way down the long tube leading to the plane. All three waved back when Cooper turned and waved. When they could not longer see him they turned and began to head towards the parking lot.

"You okay Alex?" Walter asked his quite younger lover.

"I didn’t think it was going to be this hard saying goodbye. We’ve only known each other a couple of days."

"It's all it takes…"

"ALEX!" a shout came from behind them and they turned in surprise to see Cooper running towards them.

"Coop? What’s the matter? Did you forget something?" Alex asked surprised at his brother sudden return.

"Yeah…this," Cooper said and to Alex’s infinite amazement pulled him into a bone-crushing hug and kissed him on both cheeks, Russian style. Cooper was glad when he felt Alex’s arm go around him and hug back. "No more plain old handshakes for us…okay?"

Alex, eyes bright and cheeks flushed, had to swallow the lump on his throat in order to speak, "Yeah…okay. You are after all the big brother and I gotta do what you say…right?"

Cooper beamed with pleasure and said, "You got it buddy. Always listen to your elders. I really gotta run now but I’ll see you Monday," and he rushed off, leaving the three men to stare at him with surprise.

No words were necessary as they resumed their trip back to the car. Walter and Fox smiled at each other as they watched the change in Alex’s demeanor. He walked as if he didn’t have a care in the world and he had been given the greatest gift on earth. Without knowing it both men were hoping for the same thing, that if the ever found the remaining four clones, they would take to Alex as Cooper had. Their Rat deserved all the joy he had been denied for so long.

"I can't go."

"Alex we have been through this twenty times," Walter said trying to hide his exasperation.

They were scheduled to leave for the airport in less than half an hour and Alex was having another anxiety attack. He had had several of those over the past four days.

"But Walter…I…I hardly know this man, how could you let me agree to go visit him half way across the country when I have known him less than two days."

"Alexei, how are you going to get to know him better if you don't go see him. What are you so afraid of anyway?"

"He's afraid he is going to like Cooper." Fox Mulder said as he came down the stairs with his bag.

"I'm not afraid of anything Fox," Alex said angrily, his green eyes blazing. "That is the stupidest thing you've ever said and you say pretty much stupid things all the time."

Walter frowned and was about to reprimand Alex for his rudeness but Alex himself beat him to it. "Fox… I'm so sorry, I didn't mean that…Gods I think I'm going to be sick," Alex said and rushed out of the room.

"Fox you know he didn't…"

"Walter I'm the psychologist here remember. Of course I know that was just the nerves talking. He is just freaking out about forming a connection with Cooper. Alex has problems with relationships…"

"I figured that one out by myself thank you very much," Walter said sarcastically as opened the door to let the cab driver know they had heard his honking horn. He signaled for the man to wait and then turned to face Fox again, "How are we going to get Alex to calm down."

"I have an idea. Just play along with me. Go tell the driver to go around the corner and wait until we get him. Then come back."

Walter knew better than to argue with one of Fox's wild schemes and did as asked.

"Where is Walter going?" Alex asked as he came out of the bathroom.

"Oh he just went to tell the driver that we won't be going to the airport."

"What? Why?" Alex asked his eyes widening in surprise.

"From your reaction we figured that you didn't want to go see Cooper. I'll call the airline and cancel the tickets. Why don't you get on the second extension and call your brother, tell him we won't be coming. Damn I forgot the time difference, it's too early to call him, it's only four a.m. where he is."

"Walter! Fox is going to cancel the flight!" Alex said as he rushed to Skinner when the door opened.

"I thought you'd be happy," Walter said as he grabbed his suitcase and started for the stairs.

"But…but…you didn't ask…ask me if that is what I wanted. How could you just make that decision without checking with me first. It wasn’t your decision to make," Alex said angrily, his voice rising.

"Correct me if I'm wrong Alex," Fox said calmly, "But didn't you say 'I can't go', you've been telling us that for four days and just now proceeded to get sick in the bathroom at the mere thought of going to Wyoming. What were we supposed to think?"

Alex looked between his lovers. His indecision was apparent as he bit his lower lip and his breathing became more pronounce. "I…I…I want…"

Fox took pity on his distraught lover and opened his arms for Alex to step into an embrace, "Tell us what you want Alex. We'll do whatever you want. We will be with you every step of the way."

"Walter?" Alex whispered as he looked over Fox's shoulder at the older man.

"Whatever you want?" Walter assured him.

"Okay. I want to go," Alex said taking a deep breath. "But we are going to be late if we have to wait for another cab."

"Don't worry, he is just waiting around the corner. You really didn't think we were going to let you get out of going to Wyoming did you? I for one am not passing a chance to see you on a horse, wearing tight jeans and a cowboy hat." Fox said grinning at the outraged look on Alex's face.

"You were on it too Walter?"

"I'm just an innocent bystander. Fox is the evil mastermind," Walter said smiling. "So if you want to punish anyone for lying to you this time it'll have to be Fox…I'm not getting anywhere near you hand."

"So much for being my knight in shining armor Snickerdoodle," Fox said smirking at the older man. "Alex if you want to punish me it'll have to wait. If we don’t get going we'll never make the airport."

"Okay Fox but I'll remember this," Alex said with a mock growl. "We better get going. It's going to be a long day."

"Yeah. Why couldn't Coop live on the East Coast instead of the middle of nowhere, it's going to take two connections and nearly eight hours to get to Cheyenne." Fox groused.

"You can sleep on the plane Fox," Walter said as he pushed his lover ahead of him towards the cab.

"I can't sleep on planes Walter you know that."

"I thought he said he couldn’t sleep on planes," Alex asked, as he looked across the aisle to where Fox sat, fast asleep and snoring lightly.

Walter, who was seated next to Alex, looked over at his sleeping lover and chuckled, "That’s what the man claims but obviously that is not the case. I better wake him. We are about to land in Denver."

"Wha…what’s the matter," Fox said coming awake as Walter reached across the aisle and shook him.

"We are landing in ten minutes. I though you might want to wake up before we left you on the plane."

Rubbing his hands over his face, Fox let out a yawn and said, "I wasn’t sleeping. Just resting."

"A likely story," Walter said smiling at the mussed look of his lover and added, "We have an hour layover in Denver and then an hour flight to Cheyenne. We should be getting in about four p.m. local time. Cooper said he would have transportation waiting for us to take us to the ranch."

"Maybe it’ll be horses," Fox said excitedly, "Or maybe a covered wagon. What do you think Alex?"

"I think you are still asleep and dreaming Fox," Alex said chuckling, "This is the twenty-first century not the nineteenth."

Before Fox could give a reply, the plane touched down and the trio began disembarking procedures. Once inside the terminal they went to the ticket counter to check in for their connecting flight, just to be told that due to the bad weather in Denver the flight was delayed for at least another hour. As they had nothing else to do they decided to take advantage of the complementary lounge and wait.

"I want to walk around. I’m bored," Fox said, just five minutes after settling in. "I want to go to the newsstand and check out the books. You guys want to come?"

"Alex why don’t you go with him," Walter suggested. "I’ll stay here with the bags. I have some files to go over and could use the quite time."

"I can’t believe you brought work with you Walt?" Alex said as he stood to join Fox. "I thought this was vacation."

"It is, but if I have some down time to spare I want to get some of this paperwork done so I don’t have to work late every when we get home. So scoot."

"Okay. Do you want us to bring you a surprise," Fox asked smiling slyly and wiggling his eyebrows.

"Just make sure you come back in time for the flight, that'll be surprise enough."

The two younger men left their lover to his work and exited the lounge.

"What do you want to do Fox?"

"Lets just walk around. There are some stores we can look at, and I want to get some magazines."

"Alright, but I have to find a bathroom first."

"Alex, I’ll never understand how someone with a bladder as tiny as yours ever made it in the spy business. Didn’t you have long hours of stakeouts to sit through? How did you manage?"

"My bladder is not tiny Fox, I just drank too much coffee on the plane."

"Like you needed anymore caffeine. You are nervous enough as it is. The men’s room is right there."

The two men entered the bathroom and stood patiently in line for their turn, after doing their business the resumed their walk. Further down the terminal Alex was surprised when Fox pointed out another men’s room. "Fox I know you think I have a small bladder but I went three minutes ago."

"Don’t you see the sign? It’s out of order."

"So?"

"Out of order. It means no one will be going in to use it."

"Again. So?"

"Do I have to spell it out for you?" Fox asked and when Alex opened his mouth to answer he added, "Just come on." He dragged the younger man behind him as he entered the men’s room "Do you get it now?"

"I must have left my brain on the plane Fox. What am I missing?"

For an answer Fox grabbed Alex's hand and placed it over his groin. "You are missing this you ninny."

Feeling the obvious bulge in his hand Alex looked down and then back up until he was looking directly at Fox. A small, wicked smile tugged at the corner of his lips, "Oh you are a fiendish devil Mr. Mulder. So what did you have in mind?"

"Wait," Fox said and pulled out his cell phone, "Walter?"

"Where are you two?"

"We are in an out of order men's room down the hall from were you are. Care to join us?"

"I don't have to use the men's room Fox."

"Man, what did I do to deserve two unimaginative lovers? Walter, Alex and I are about to engage in what I hope will be a session of hot and heavy sex. You are welcome to join us and…Walter?"

"What took you so long?" Alex asked with a grin as Skinner rushed into the bathroom.

"I had to ask the desk attendant to watch the bags. Showed her my badge just in case. So someone mentioned hot and heavy?"

"Two studs, no waiting, take your pick," Fox said, "But since it was my idea…Pick Me…Pick Me!!!"

"Anxious my love?" Walter said chuckling as he unzipped his jeans, "So what's your pleasure?"

For an answer Fox dropped his jeans and boxers and leaned against the bathroom wall. Wiggling his cute little ass invitingly he said over his shoulder, "Come on in Big Guy. Little Guy will you suck me?"

"When did I become Little Guy?" Alex asked frowning prettily. "Oh never mind it's better than Dumpling I guess." With that he fell to his knees in front of Fox, his back against the wall and opened his mouth to welcome in the large erection in front of him.

"Walter make sure you use a condom, I don't want to leak all over the place," Fox reminded his lover.

"All set Foxlet, don't you worry. I know how to take care of you," Walter said as he slipped a lubed finger into the tight waiting hole.

"Oh yeah…that feels so good," Fox moaned, "Gods Alex what is that?"

"You like?" Alex asked pulling back slightly and looking up at Fox's flushed face, "I was sucking on a mint. Makes my breath all cool. You feel it?"

"It's great, now get back to work," Fox said as he pushed back against the two fingers, "What are you waiting for Walter?"

"I'm not going to rush this Fox," Walter said reproachfully, "You know I don't want to hurt you."

"Okay…okay…okay, I can do this…I can wait…I can…I can't wait…just hurry up will ya!"

"Alright baby, here I come," Walter said and positioned himself behind Mulder and began to gently push against the tight ring of muscles. "Oh man Fox…you are really ready aren’t…aren’t you. You are so tight. Are you sure I’m not hurt…hurting you?"

"I’ll hurt you if you don’t…awww…aawww, if you don’t move it Walter," Fox said pushing demandingly against Walter’s erection. "Come on Big Guy show me how you can ride me."

Walter needed no further invitation and began to pump his hips rhythmically into Fox’s ass. "Oh yes… yesssss…this is so good. Yes…yes…so tight…so close…"

Fox was bracing himself as well as he could against the wall trying to keep is balance. Alex in the meantime was sucking away as if Fox’s dick was an ice cream cone in the middle of July.

"Alex…I can’t hold it anymore," Fox said between gritted teeth. "I’m gonna explode." Fox arched back and poured his essence in the waiting mouth. This action caused him to squeeze his rectal muscles and he could feel Walter tremble behind him.

"Aaaaw…aaawwww…Fox…Fox…Fooooox," Skinner chanted as he pulled back and slammed in one more time before releasing his orgasm. He had been holding onto Fox's hips as he pistoned in and out of the tight passage but now his knees nearly gave out and he leaned forward to brace himself by putting his hand on the wall. His mouth was now inches from Fox's nape and he placed a gentle kiss there. "Uhm…that was definitely hot and heavy."

"Speaking…speaking of heavy Big Guy," Fox groaned as he tried to straighten but unable to due to the weight on his back, "We…we are gonna miss the plane if we don't get cleaned up…and…and we still have to take care of Little Guy…"

"No need," Alex said from the floor where he was now sitting, his hand wrapped around his now spent erection. "You guys seemed to be having so much fun I thought I join in."

Walter pulled out with a soft, squishy 'pop' and quickly discarded of the used condom. Rearranging himself into his jeans, he helped Fox straighten. "You look well fucked Fox."

"It might be the last time for this week," Fox said, "I don't think Cooper is prepared to have the three of us going at it with all those cowboys around do you?"

"You've got a point," Walter agreed. "I think we need to be very careful how we handle the next few days. We don't want to make it uncomfortable for Cooper. After all he is the one that has to live with those guys after we leave."

"Well it's not like we are flaming queens or anything like that," Alex said. "But I guess you guys are right. Cooper probably works with a bunch of manly men who would not take kindly to the likes of us."

"We better get a move on guys," Walter said.

"Wait a second Walter," Alex said and leaning over towards the still half-naked Mulder delivered two quick slaps.

"ALEX! Why the hell did you do that for?" Fox said in outrage.

"Consider it down payment for laying to me about canceling the trip this morning."

Fox swallowed hard and said, "Down payment? Oh boy…what a treat to look forward to."

"Come on fellas we need to get going. Fox get all tucked in please. Okay…let me check. All zippers are up? Check. No stains anywhere? Check. Hands all clean? Check. Okay looks like we are ready."

"You forgot one thing Walter," Alex said making a face, "I need a toothbrush. I've got Fox all over my tongue. Not that, that is a bad thing necessarily."

"I'm glad to hear that," Fox said and kissed him deeply, "Uhm…I taste good."

"You are good. Now let's go," Walter said and herded his two boys out. "Time to get to cowboy country."

"So what now?" Mulder asked as he looked around the crowded airport. "Do you see anyone with a sign or anything?"

"Mister Mulder?" a voice said from behind them, "Misters Krycek and Skinner?"

The three men turned to see a young cowboy staring at them intently. "Correct in all accounts. I'm Walter Skinner and these are Fox Mulder and Alex Krycek. You are…"

Taking the cowboy hat from his head to reveal a shock of red, curly hair the young man said, "Pardon my manners. I'm Jake Malloy. I work for Cooper Donovan. I'm here to take your luggage back to the ranch."

"Our luggage? What about us?" Fox asked as they followed the young man outside, their luggage neatly piled into a cart.

"Oh you'll be going to the ranch with Chris," Jake said pointing to a man standing about fifty yards away, lazily leaning against a large, yellow school bus.

"Well it's not horses or a covered wagon but I guess its transportation," Fox whispered to Alex as they saw the man push away from the bus and start walking towards them.

"Wow, is that a man or a mountain," Alex said in surprise as the man approached. Chris was well over six and a half feet tall and looked as if he weighed two hundred sixty pounds, but there didn't seem to be an ounce of fat in the well-defined body.

"Well there is no mistaking you are the Spud's brother," Chris said putting out his hand.

"Spud?" the three men, said simultaneously.

"Sorry. Cooper. I've known him since his parents brought him to the ranch when he was a four. My name is Christopher Newman but everyone calls me Chris. If you gentlemen are ready we better get a move on."

"How far is the ranch?" Fox asked as they neared the school bus, but was surprised when Chris walked around it and continued walking. "Excuse me…Chris aren't we taking the bus?"

Chris turned around in confusion and then chuckled at the bewildered look in the three men's faces. "You thought we were going on the bus. The ranch is two hours away by road that's why Jake will be taking your luggage after he is done with the shopping. I'm taking you on the plane, it'll take about forty five minutes. Here we are."

"Man…what a beaut," Walter said, whistling in admiration as they approached the hangar where a sleek Jetstream Lear Jet was parked. "This is yours?"

"Belongs to Cooper and the ranch," Chris explained as the foursome boarded. Walter sat up front with Chris while Alex and Fox took the back seat. "The ranch is at the foot of the Big Horn Mountains. It's over seven thousand acres and we have about two thousand head of cattle and over five hundred horses. Spud…I mean Coop has been talking about nothing else but the three of you since he came back."

"There is the ranch," Chris said forty minutes later, pointing out the window. His three companions looked out and were enthralled by the view. The green of the lush land was in sharp contrast to the amazingly beautiful Big Horn Mountains, which were capped with snow. "The mountains are white year round but the weather is beautiful, although it can get a bit chilly in the evenings, even in August."

"Coop told us. We came prepared," Alex said, "Chris? How…uhm…how many people live at the ranch?"

"About fifteen of us live there year round. We have help when herding and branding season rolls around. Now there is about twenty-five total. Here we are…" Chris said as he landed the plane and brought it to a stop.

Chris, Walter and Fox deplaned and it was a moment before any of them realized that Alex was still in the plane. "I'll get him," Fox said giving Chris an apologetic smile. "Hey Alex, I seem to recall you did the same thing when we first went to Walter's farm and it all turned out okay after you got out of the car. How about it baby? You ready to face your big, bad brother and his band of desperados?"

Smirking at the grinning Mulder, Alex took a deep breath and said, "I was just trying to catch my breath. The altitude is much higher here."

"Okay," Fox said smiling. "Your breath all caught? Good, then lets go see your brother."

As Alex stepped out of the plane, he looked around in wonderment of the beauty of the landscape. He was therefore totally unprepared when he was knocked over to the ground from behind. His immediate reaction was to strike back and he twisted beneath the heavy body on top of his until he was on his back. He frowned in confusion as he stared into the face of his twin, who was grinning cheekily at him. "Cooper. What the hell do you think you are doing jumping me like that?"

"Hey bro. About time you got here."

"Cooper I've killed men for less."

"Yeah, I know, tough guy. It's good to see you; I'm glad you decided to come. I was kind of afraid you would chicken out."

Alex stood as Cooper rolled off him and offered him a hand up. "The thought never crossed my mind …Spud."

Cooper whipped his head around to glare at Chris who was standing nearby with Fox and Walter watching the brotherly reunion. "Christopher Michael Newman you are dead meat."

"Sorry Spud, it slipped out. Let's get your friends inside or Rosie will have our hides. Supper is probably almost ready."

The five men made their way towards the large ranch house. It was much bigger than any of them had imagined and definitely more modern looking. "Who's Rosie?" Alex asked as he walked in besides his brother.

Before Cooper could answer, Alex was once again attacked, but this time by a very large woman who trapped him against her ample bosoms with a bone-crushing hug. "Oh Spud you are right he looks just like you, it's just amazing."

When Rosie released Alex and turned her attention towards Fox, Mulder blanched and stepped behind Walter for protection, peering over his shoulder at the imposing woman. "Hello."

"Fox Mulder, Walter Skinner, this is Rosie Sandoval. She's been the cook and housekeeper and all around Mom for us for the last thirty years," Chris said by way of introducing the older woman. "She obviously started working here when she was ten." He added with a grin that made the obviously well over forty-year old woman blush.

"You are a sweet-talker that’s what you are Chris Newman," Rosie said swatting his arm. "Why don’t you boys show your guests to their rooms and then wash up for supper."

"Yes ma'am," both Chris and Cooper said in unison.

"I'm sorry guys but we have to put you in separate rooms…I hope you don't mind," Cooper said blushing slightly. "Rosie just wouldn't understand. I hope that's alright."

"Don't sweat it Cooper, it's alright. We talked about it before, it's no big deal." Alex assured him.

"Your rooms are right across the hall from Cooper's. I am just down the hall," Chris said.

"You don't seem to be surprised by our relationship Chris," Walter commented as he entered his room.

"Live and let live wasn’t just the name of a movie. It's the way I choose to live my life. As long as what you do doesn't hurt anyone it ain't none of my business. Besides you three have proven to be national heroes. We need some more of those around. Just freshen up now and by the time we are done with supper, Jake will be back with your luggage."

"Thanks for your hospitality. I know I speak for all of us when I say we are looking forward to this week." Walter said with sincerity.

"It's my pleasure. I haven't seen Spud this happy in a long time. Anything that makes him happy makes me happy."

"What would make me happy is that you stop calling me Spud," Cooper said with a mock growl. "We'll see you guys in about half-an-hour."

"We'll leave you then," Chris said and put his arm across Cooper's shoulder and led him out.

When he was sure they were out of earshot Fox gave a low whistle and shook his head.

"What? What are you shaking your head at?" Walter asked suspiciously.

"Didn't you see it?"

"See what Fox?" Alex asked confused.

"Cooper and Chris? Didn't you catch it?"

"Catch what? What are you cooking up now Fox?" Walter asked, suspicion having turned to dread.

"Didn't either of you notice that on the plane ride over all Chris talked about was Cooper. And the looks flying between them are so full of unresolved sexual tension you can cut it with a knife."

"Aaaw come on Fox you are imagining things. I didn’t get any of that?" Alex said, "It's not like Cooper and I have to be exactly the same. Just because I like guys doesn't mean that Coop does."

"Alex is right Fox, I don't see Chris in a relationship with a man."

"Why? You think he is too manly. Too macho? This is coming from the tough ex-Marine?" Fox said and shrugged his shoulders, "Fine, don't believe me. They don't call me Spooky for nothing. I used to be a pretty good profiler. I know people and I tell you that those two have it bad for each other. But you go right ahead and don't believe me. After all I seem to recall that I was the only who believe that our little threesome would work. Think about it," and with that he left Walter's room.

"You don’t really think he could be on to something do you?" Alex asked.

"Let's keep an eye and an ear open and see what transpires," Walter said, "Go on to your room and I'll see you at dinner."

"Supper. They call it supper here," Alex said and kissed Walter sweetly on the lips. "Gods I'm gonna miss that for a whole week."

"If we are really, really quiet maybe we can snuggle tonight," Walter said wistfully, "Chris did say the nights get chilly around here and I would hate to sleep without my blankie."

"Gods Walter you are getting as bad as Fox with the nicknames," Alex chuckled, "Now I am a Blankie. What's next?"

Putting his hand over Alex's crotch and cupping the well endowed package there, Skinner said, "How about Stud Muffin."

"I better get…out…before we…give Rosie a show…she's not ready for," Alex gasped as heat rushed through his body by the simple proximity to his lover. Pushing Skinner at arm's length he said, "We have to find a place to fuck Walter. I don't think I can go too long without you or Fox in me." With that he rushed out of the room, leaving a flushed and panting Deputy Director of the FBI behind.

Supper was a curious affair, with both Walter and Alex trying to keep up with the conversation while at the same time trying to catch any evidence of Fox’s observations. The only one who seemed to have no trouble was Fox, who was his charming self with Rosie and was able to answer Chris’ questions about his upcoming book without missing a beat.

"That, as usual, was a terrific meal my darling Rosie," Chris said patting his full stomach.

"Yes ma’am, it was wonderful," Walter agreed and Alex and Fox nodded their concurrence.

"Thank you gentlemen," Rosie said beaming, "Now how about some dessert? I have apple pie and home made chocolate ice-cream."

"Home-made chocolate ice-cream?" Alex said, his mouth watering at the thought.

"You like chocolate too? It’s my favorite and Rosie makes the best ice-cream this side of the Rockies," Cooper said.

Rosie placed a large piece of pie with an equally large scoop of ice cream on top of in front of each man and could not help but chuckle at the identical twinkle in Cooper and Alex's eyes.

Dessert finished, Chris suggested the visitors retire for the evening. He encountered no objections as the long flight and the time difference had obviously taken their toll on the three men.

"I thought we go spend a few days up at my cabin," Cooper said as he walked them to their rooms. "Chris was there last week and has it all stocked up and he even fixed the television set, so you won't be out of touch with civilization. We can go hunting, fishing, anything you want."

"What about your men…are we going to meet them," Alex asked.

"They'll be going out on a cattle drive," Coop said, "I'd thought if we all went to the cabin we could get to know each other better."

"Sounds great, I love fishing," Walter said smiling. "We'll have to take it easy on these two city boys though. They are not exactly the outdoors type."

"We'll take whatever you dish out Walter," Fox said punching him lightly in the arm, "Won't we Alex?"

"Sure Fox, except don't expect me to stand in a freezing river up to my balls in running water trying to catch a fish that has done nothing to me."

"We'll keep that in mind Alex," Coop said smiling, "But we need to leave early so you guys better get to bed…oh…and by the way, I forgot to mention earlier that Rosie's room is on the other side of the house…"

"And her hearing is going," Chris added with a wicked grin, "And Cooper here sleeps like a rock."

"Thanks for the information," Walter said feeling himself blush slight, the meaning of what the men were saying quite clear.

The men retired to their respective rooms after interchanging good-night wishes.

"Walter? You sleeping?" a soft whisper in his left ear woke the sleeping Deputy Director.

Opening one bleary eye, Walter saw Alex's face inches from his. "I was…what's the matter?"

"I can't sleep."

Rolling to a sitting position, Walter rubbed his eyes and looked into the face of a very worried looking Russian, "Did you have a nightmare?"

"No but I am afraid if I go to sleep I will have one," Alex said biting his lower lip. He hated feeling weak but he knew that neither Fox or Walter would ever laugh at his fears. "I don't want Coop or Chris to get freaked out if I wake up screaming. Can I sleep here with you?"

The moonlight streaming through the window gave enough light that Walter could see the anxious and hopeful look on Alex's beautiful face. "Of course sweetheart," Walter said as he patted a space on the bed next to him. When Alex jumped over him and settled in next to him, Walter felt his heart swell with love for the younger man. He knew that it had taken a lot of courage for Alex to admit his fear and asked to be allowed to sleep with him. "I love you Alex," Walter whispered as he pulled the younger man into an embrace and settled him in his arms.

Alex lifted his head from Walter's shoulder and smiled, "Love you too Big Guy." Alex leaned in and kissed Walter tenderly on the lips.

Walter opened his mouth slightly and felt Alex tongue slip shyly in. The kiss started innocently enough but quickly became passionate. Alex turned his body so he was lying partially on top of Walter and could feel the older man's erection pocking through his pajamas. Alex shifted once again so that his right hand could slither slowly down the front of Walter's pants. Finding the solid mass of flesh, he grabbed it and ran his hand up and down it.

"Al…Alex…you are gonna make me come if you do…ummm…gods…you are gonna make me come," Walter tried to talk around the kiss.

"Aha…that's the idea," Alex said pumping the erection in his hand one more time, "Just don’t scream or you'll wake everyone up."

"You are going to have to help me there," Walter said, his voice straining with the effort to keep quiet while Alex's clever touch drove him insane. Krycek's hand was currently cupping his balls and tickling them mercilessly.

"I live to serve," Alex said and deepened the kiss. He felt Walter's semen fill his hand as Walter's moan filled his mouth.

Walter came and came hard, arching his back slightly as he sucked ardently on Alex's lips, "Gods you are so good…I love you…love you…love you."

"Mmmmm, love you too," Alex said and pulled away after one last quick bite of Walter's lip, "You better get cleaned up or you'll loose some pubes if you dry in your pants."

Regretting the loss of the warm body next to his but knowing that Alex was right, Walter rolled off the bed and stripped off the soiled pajama bottoms and boxers that were now covered in his semen.

He walked to the bathroom and returned with a wet washcloth to clean Alex's hand but had to pause at the sight before him. Alex Krycek had fallen asleep, his right arm stretching out across the bed, his face turned towards the window and lit by the moonlight.

Walter had to take a deep breath to get the lump in his throat to subside enough to let him breath. In sleep Alex looked so innocent that Walter had no problem forgetting their past. He could not believe he almost let his stubbornness prevent him from seeing the truth. That he loved and was loved by a man that had killed him.

Climbing back into the bed, he quickly cleaned Alex's hand and could not help but smile when Alex's closed it around his own hand, almost like a child grabbing onto his father's hand. Walter stretched himself out next to the sleeping Krycek and pulled him into his arms, nestling the dark-haired head on his shoulder.

'This feels so right,' Walter thought to himself as he drifted off to sleep, 'I have to remember to thank Fox for opening my eyes.'

"Keep you eyes open gentlemen, the trail gets narrow up ahead," Chris warned the group of men ahead of him. He was bringing up the rear, with Fox Mulder directly in front of him, Walter in front of Mulder, Krycek in front of Walter and Cooper leading the pack.

They had risen early, been fed a hearty breakfast by Rosie and spend about an hour getting the 'city boys' acquainted with their mounts. It had taken Alex a bit longer to learn how to mount with the handicap of his prosthesis but after a few tries he had gotten the hang of it. The horses that Chris had chosen for them were even tempered and the men had not trouble maneuvering them.

Chris had insisted they take a couple of breaks along the way so they could stretch their muscles so they wouldn't be too stiff when they finally arrived at the cabin.

"How much further?" Walter asked.

"About two miles," Cooper yelled from the front of the line. The day was windy and at the altitude they were at it was rather chilly, "At the end of this trail we begin a descent into the valley where the cabin is."

"How you doing back there Fox?" Walter called out over his shoulder.

"Fine," came the sullen reply.

Walter sighed in frustration. He could tell something was bugging his lover but couldn't get Fox to tell him what the problem was. Fox had been pleasant enough to everyone else, even complementing Rosie on her hot-cakes, but he seemed to be avoiding both Alex and Walter.

The rest of the ride was carried out in silence, as the altitude was making it hard to breathe. Chris had explained that they would get used to it once they descended into the valley.

As they entered the valley the trail widened again and Alex led his horse to ride besides his brother. Walter expected Fox to do the same and move to his side but when he looked over his shoulder he saw the younger man had slowed down to meet up with Chris. Walter could not help but frown at the obvious slight but decided to talk to Fox about his strange mood in private.

"We are here," Cooper's announcement of their arrival brought Walter out of his reverie. He could see a nice sized cabin on the shores of a large lake. The cabin almost looked like it was built into the mountain and was surrounded by tall trees. It looked almost like a postcard.

"This is beautiful Coop," Walter said as they dismounted. He gave a low whistle of appreciation as he entered the cabin. "This is not what I was expecting. Pretty snazzy place for a cabin in the woods."

"We spend a lot of time up here during the winter so we figured why not make it enjoyable. The cable link was down due to a storm so we had no television the whole winter. That's why I didn't find out about Alex until the spring thaw and then we had calving season so we didn't get back to the ranch until mid-July."

"How big is this place anyway," Alex said looking around. They were standing in a large living area with an open kitchen to one side and a long hallway on the other. Stairs leading up to what appeared to be a loft were opposite the front door.

"Originally the cabin was this room we are in, the kitchen and the loft above. We added more rooms, bathrooms and a deck on the side facing the mountain. We have a huge hot-tub and a bar-b-que. Come on let's get you settled and then we can have show you around."

When the completed the tour of the house, Fox said, "Would you mind if I take the loft, Walter and Alex can take the big room down the hall."

"No Fox, I'll take the loft. You can take my room, it connects to the master bedroom," Chris said.

"No thank you. I prefer the loft. I don't sleep very well and I don't want to disturb you if I stay up reading. I downloaded some last minute changes to the novel and want to get them done as soon as possible."

"If you are sure," Cooper said and looked at Alex but could not tell what his brother was thinking. Alex's face was a mask of calm indifference. There was something going on but he couldn't tell what. "Very well then get settled and then we can have lunch."

"Sounds like a plan," Walter said trying to break the tension. "I'm looking forward to some fishing."

"We can do that in the morning," Chris assured him, "Cooper what are your plans?"

"I thought I take Alex up to the min…" Cooper started but stopped when he saw the thunderclouds building in Chris' eyes. "What? Come on Christopher that was years ago. I was just a kid."

"What are you guys talking about?" Alex asked confused.

"When I was seventeen, I came up here without telling anyone and went into one of the abandoned mines. It collapsed and I was trapped for two days before Chris found me. My folks were on vacation somewhere and Chris was in charge. He made his displeasure known quite loudly and painfully."

"And will again if you even think of going into those mines," Chris said seriously, "One heart attack in my lifetime is enough. You get my drift young man."

"Loud and clear Boss," Cooper said sullenly but changed his mood quickly when Chris frowned. "Okay I promise. We'll just go for a walk so we can talk about stuff. Happy?"

"Thrilled," Chris said sarcastically, "Okay now that we have plans…oh I'm sorry Fox, forgot about you. Do you want to join us fishing?"

"No thanks," Fox said shrugging his shoulders, "I think I'll just go swimming if that's alright."

"The water is rather cold, chilly in fact," Cooper reminded him.

"I grew up in Martha's Vineyard and I went swimming almost year round. I am hardier than I look. Is there somewhere safe where I can running too?"

"You can run all around the lake. There is a nice patch surrounding it. I'm not quite sure how long it is but it should give you a nice workout. Now how about if we get moving, the longer we stand here deciding what we are going to do the less time we are going to have to do it. Cooper why don't you help me check the hot tub, you know make sure everything is in order."

Catching the clue Chris was tossing him Cooper said, "Sure. Alex it shouldn't take to long. I'll come get you and we can go for our walk."

Walter smiled with appreciation at Chris, knowing that the other man understood that Alex and he wanted time alone with Fox. When the pair left, Skinner turned to his obviously upset lover, "Fox, did Alex or I do something to make you angry?"

Fox at first looked startled by the question but then sighed and looked down in misery, "No, well… sort of but not really. No."

"Well that was clear as mud," Alex said with a smirk, "I thought we could talk about anything that was bothering one of us. Was it something I did?"

"Listen guys, I just need some alone time," Fox said, his eyes pleading, "I need to work some things out on my head. I'm going for a run. Okay?"

Walter looked less than satisfied and Alex was just looking confused, "Fox you are freaking me out here," the young Russian said, "If I did anything to make you so sad and upset, I want to know. I know I am not great at this relationship stuff so I probably said or did something without knowing it would upset you. Please tell me."

Fox could tell Alex was really upset so he gave him what he hoped was a reassuring smile, "Alex I know you are upset but trust me I just need to think about something. I love you and I love you too Walter. Never doubt that, either of you."

"Fox…it's just that last night…when we went to bed you were fine, and this morning…I'm just so confused," Walter said pulling Fox into a hug and was surprised to feel the tension in the other man's body.

"I guess I didn't sleep very well…that's all," Fox said and pulled away from Walter. Turning to head up the stairs to the loft, he stopped and very softly said, "I had a nightmare…and…and I guess I just missed having you guys in bed with me." With that he climbed the stairs and disappeared.

Alex gasped and looked at Walter, but Skinner was busy staring into space, his eyes full of regret and his jaw clenched. "Walter…oh…oh my God Walter…what did I do."

"Alex you didn't do anything I didn't do as well. Let's go meet with Chris and Coop…"

"But Walter Fox needs us…he…he needs us…"

"No Alex, I think he is too angry and too hurt," Walter said and began moving towards the back of the house, tugging Alex by the hand so he would follow him, "When he is calmer we will both apologize and grovel for forgiveness."

"Hey you guys ready to have some fun," Cooper said as Walter and Alex stepped out onto the deck, but noticing the somber faces he quickly added, "Is Fox alright? What's wrong?"

"What'd you guys do?" Chris said looking at the two hang-dog faced men before him.

"Fucked up royally apparently," Walter said grimly, "We just need to give him some room, so why don't we get to our plans. We'll try talking to him tonight."

"Very well," Chris said, "Let's go get our waders on and get to the creek. What are you boys going to do?"

"I'd thought I take Alex to the look out," Cooper said, "Good place to talk."

"Good idea," Chris said nodding, "Take your rifle just in case. Don't be too long, we'll have supper around seven. If we have any luck we'll have fresh trout for supper."

"And if we aren't lucky?" Alex asked.

"How do you feel about venison steaks?"

"Walter…please catch a fish," Alex said with mock seriousness.

"Okay let's get moving," Chris suggested and headed back into the house.

Fox heard the men leave and finished tying his running shoes. He had not lied to his lovers, he did need to clear some things in his head a run would do him good. He left the cabin and walked to the edge of the lake, did some stretches and began his run.

He knew he was being silly and worrying about nothing but knowing that Alex and Walter had slept together the previous night when he was just in the next room was bothering him more than he wanted to admit. They had all agreed that there would be times where they would not all be together to make love and even times when one of them, even if they were in the house, would decide they didn’t want to join in. But last night had been different. He had not been given the choice, had not been invited or even given a second thought. Even through the solid oak door that separated his room from Walter’s he heard them and not once had they mentioned him.

He would run his anger and pain out then talk to them calmly and coolly. He knew that they would be upset, he had already seen it in their faces earlier, but he didn’t want to let his feelings eat at him.

He continued his run, slower than usual at this altitude, trying to decide how he was going to discuss things with his lovers.

Walter and Chris were up to their thighs in the middle of a free flowing creek, their thick leather waders providing some protecting from the cold water. Chris had given Walter brief instructions on how to cast his pole and the two men stood quietly a few feet from each other.

"Walter?" Chris asked hesitantly, "Can I ask you a question?"

"Uhmm…sure," Walter said coming out of his reverie. He had been thinking about Fox.

"Tell me if this is none of my business, which actually I think I already know it is none of my business but…but how…how did you know you were attracted to men."

Walter could tell it had cost Chris a great deal to ask the question and he answered slowly, "I don’t mind you asking at all. It first happened in Vietnam. Not that I was attracted to men then, at least I didn’t think I was. It was more a need that needed to be fulfilled and there were not too many women around, unless you counted the locals and I wasn’t into rape or the chance of catching some disease I’d never heard off. It happened only two times, once giving and once receiving. It was close to the time I was wounded and sent back home so I didn’t think much about it afterwards."

"Cooper told me you were married…to a woman I mean."

Walter could not help but chuckle at the confused look on the other man’s face, "I was married… happily for most of the marriage. It ended badly, we were about to divorce after seventeen years but she died."

"Was this before Fox and Alex?"

"They were working for me and I was attracted, but did nothing about it. When Sharon died Fox was there for me the whole time…one thing led to another and that was it."

"And Alex?"

"Alex is a completely different story," Walter said casting his line again, "I didn’t even know I was in love with him until Fox hit me over the head with it. I was angry, hurt and vengeful at first, but that Rat sure grows on you."

"Why do you call him Rat?"

"Fox came up with it during a time when he didn’t like Alex very much. Why do you call Coop, Spud?"

"Kid was crazy about potatoes when he was younger," Chris said with a wide grin, "Even wanted potato pancakes for breakfast. Spud just seemed a natural nickname and it just stuck."

"Now it is my turn to ask you a personal question," Walter said turning to face the other man.

"Shoot."

"Actually it is a question in two parts. One…are you attracted to Cooper and two why the hell haven’t you done anything about it."

Chris turned sharply to look at Walter and slipped on the wet stones beneath his feet. His arms wind milled as he tried to stay upright but failed and landed with a loud splash in the water. Looking up at Walter’s amused face he spluttered, "What kind of a question is that? Are you crazy? What makes you think I have any feelings, other than brotherly ones, for Cooper?"

"Don’t worry it’s not like you are sending out any signals," Walter said putting out his hand to help the other man up, "At least not any that a normal human being can tell."

Chris stood and waddled towards the bank of the river. He was soaking wet and water was sloshing around his waders and boots. Walter followed him out of the water. "What do you mean a normal human being and what signals are you talking about?" Chris asked as he started to take off his wet clothing.

"Fox is emphatic. He can feel other people feelings and that is what makes him an incredible profiler. He sensed that you had intense, non-brotherly feelings, towards Cooper the moment we arrived. He even mentioned it to me and Alex…"

"Gods…Alex knows…he’ll tell Cooper," Chris said in surprise and alarm.

"Chris you still haven’t answer my question," Walter said gently, "Do you love Cooper?"

Taking off his shirt, Chris threw the wet garment angrily on the ground, "Damn it Skinner stop saying that. Who the hell do you think you are anyway? Just because you are a fairy don’t make me one…"

Walter glared at the other man and growled menacingly, "There is no need to be insulting. I thought that you said ‘live and let live’?"

Chris looked shamefacedly down at the ground, "I’m sorry I…I just was not prepared for that question."

"I think you were. At least subconsciously, otherwise you would not have asked me about Alex and Fox and our relationship."

Chris sat down and put his hands to his head, "I don’t know what to do. I…I love him so much it hurts but I don’t want to risk loosing his friendship."

Walter put his pole down and took a seat next to the upset man, "If it is any comfort to you I don’t think there is a chance of that. I didn’t tell you what else Fox felt."

"What?" Chris asked glancing at Walter worriedly.

"He seems to think that Cooper shares the same feelings."

"What? You really think…"

"Head over heels according to the expert. The problem is which of you is going to be the first one to be man enough to admit it. Frankly I wasn’t…it was Fox who made the first move."

"What you do?"

"I punched him in the eye and then I cried like a baby for an hour begging his forgiveness. It was not my finest moment. So are you man enough?"

"Give me a break here Skinner," Chris said pushing himself up, and beginning to redress with the clothes he had packed for just such an eventuality. "I just stuck my foot out of the closet. I don’t know if my whole body is ready to follow. I need a little time."

"Just remember," Walter said also coming to his feet and heading back towards the water, "For every minute you waste deciding is one less minute you have being loved. Take it from a fairy that spent nine years lusting after someone that he could have had if he just had had the guts to say it."

"Walter…about the fairy remark…I…I’m…"

"Forget it," Walter said smiling reassuringly, "I know I caught you off guard. We better get some fish or my Little Rat is going to have to eat venison steaks and I don’t know if he is ready for that."

The two men resumed their fishing and Walter could tell that Chris was mulling his words over. He hoped he had done the right thing, but now it was too late. The ball had started rolling.

"You are not a nature boy are you Alex?" Cooper asked with a wicked grin as he looked back over his shoulder at Alex who was slowly following him.

Krycek glared at him as he said, "I'd like to see how well you'd do inside a silo with goo coming out of your eyes."

"Sorry I think I'll pass," Cooper said still grinning. Nothing that Alex told him surprised him any more. He knew his twin had experienced a hard life and he knew that in his shoes he probably would not have survived as well as Alex had. "Here we are"

Alex stood next to his twin and stared at what was obviously the entrance to an abandoned mine. The front of the large opening was partially boarded up. "I thought you promised Chris you weren't going to come here."

"What he doesn't know won't hurt him," Cooper answered with a big grin, "Besides when did you turn into such a goody two shoes."

"Since if I do anything as crazy as going into an abandoned mine when I have specific orders not to would get me a sore behind…" Alex began to reply in anger and when he realized what he had let slip out he colored instantly.

Cooper's eyes grew wide in surprise as the revelation, "You mean you get whipped? By whom, Walter? Fox?"

"Look just forget about it…forget I said anything."

"You let them punish you? Why? What does it feel like?"

Alex took a deep breath and released it slowly knowing that Cooper would not stop asking until he was satisfied. "Listen…Fox, Walter and I have a great relationship that just happens to include discipline …which basically means that if any of us breaks a rule that we all agree on we get…Gods I can't believe I'm telling you this. It is a mutual agreement and I get to dish out punishment too…although I tend to get it more than give it. Happy now?"

"How does it make you feel? Does it hurt?"

"You were never spanked as a child?"

"You get spanked? I thought you'd get a whipping…man oh man…"

"And before you ask I get it on the bare. It hurts…it's embarrassing at hell but once it is over and they forgive you there is nothing better in the world than absolution. Any other questions?"

"I'm sorry Alex…I didn't mean to make you mad…you just caught me off guard," Cooper said biting his lip, much like Alex did when he was uncomfortable. "I kinda envy you actually."

"What!"

"You have two people that love you unconditionally and care enough about you to make sure you live your life right."

"What about your folks?"

"They were always too busy and as often as they could they be gone from the ranch. Now that I know that they were not my real parents but Consortium operatives things make more sense."

"What about Chris…it is obvious he cares for you," Alex asked carefully, "As a matter of fact I think he cares about you a lot."

"What are you talking about?" Cooper said genuinely confused. "Chris likes me like a kid brother. He doesn’t have any feelings towards me other than that."

"And you? How do you feel about him?"

"What do you mean?" Coop asked his brow furrowing deeper with confusion, then his eyes widened, "You…you think…I have feelings for…you think…"

"I think the word is love," Alex said smiling slightly at the flustered look on his twin's face. He wondered if he looked like that when Fox and Walter told him they loved him for the first time.

"You think I'm in love with Chris," Cooper asked slowly, "You are crazy…what makes you think that?"

"The way you look at him. The way your eyes light up whenever you talk about him. There is nothing to be ashamed of you know. There is nothing wrong."

Cooper sat on a nearby boulder and stared at Alex. "Most of the world sure doesn't see it that way. And here…at the ranch…the men wouldn't understand…neither would Chris…he doesn't…"

"That's bullshit. Chris feels the same way. Fox said so."

"And Fox is always right," Cooper said in a defeated but hopeful tone. His heart and mind were soaring at the thought that maybe Alex was right. Before Alex could reassure him, a loud crunching sound came from behind them. Both men turned around and tried to look into the dense forest of trees behind them. "Stand still Alex."

"I wasn't doing a jig here Coop," Alex replied sarcastically trying to hide his sudden nervousness. "What is it?"

"Could be bear…maybe mountain lion. Go back down the path slowly…no sudden moves," Cooper said and raised his rifle to his shoulder.

Alex did not argue and started to walk down the path when all hell broke loose. The biggest bear Alex had ever seen came out from behind the trees and stood on its hind legs. Suddenly it threw its massive head back and let out an eardrum splitting growl.

"Alex run!" Cooper yelled and pushed him forward. Both men began a mad dash down the steep path.

The bear fell forward onto its front paws and started to follow and a full gallop. Alex dared a glance over his shoulder and shouted, "Why don't you shoot it?"

"If I stop to aim, it'll catch up," Cooper yelled back. "Just watch were you are going." For the next few minutes nothing was heard other than the frantic panting of the two runners and the crunching of branches beneath their feet. "Alex turn left…go down the narrow path…"

Alex did as instructed and continued his escape. A minute later he realized that he no longer could hear the loud grunting of the bear behind him. He looked over his shoulder and when all he saw was

Cooper behind him he stopped. "What…what happened?"

"The…the path was too…too narrow," Cooper said his chest heaving as he tried to regain his breath.

"We better get mov…moving…"

A load roar was the only warning they had before an immense paw came out of nowhere and knocked Coop to the ground. The rifle flew out of his hands and the monster of a bear landed on him. It had happened so quickly that neither man had a chance to react.

Alex stared in frozen horror as the bear opened its giant jaws and grabbed the fallen Cooper by the arm. Cooper kicked and screamed in pain trying to dislodge the animal but to no avail. The sound of Cooper's screams and the sound of flesh ripping snapped Alex out of his shock. He picked up the fallen rifle and taking aim as well as he could he fired.

"I think we've got enough fish here to last the entire week," Walter said as he and Chris walked back to the cabin. "I wonder how our boys are doing."

"If I know Cooper he took Alex to the mine."

"But you told him not to?"

Chris raised an eyebrow in surprise and chuckled, "And do Alex or Fox ever do what you tell them?"

"They do if they know what is good for their backsides."

"What do you mean? You punish them?"

"Let's just say all three of us live under the same rules. We break them we pay the price."

"You mean…naaaaah, I don't buy it. You are honestly telling me you let those two kids beat your ass?"

"Those two kids as you call them are nearly forty years old and only ten years younger than I am. Besides it is not an issue of age. My folks believe that discipline does not stop at eighteen. If you do wrong you pay for it. Besides the sex after is incredible."

"I don't think I'm ready to hear about that yet," Chris said shuddering. "Uhm…but when I am…"

"I'll help out any way I can," Walter promised. He never imagined when he boarded the plane to come to Wyoming a couple of days before that he would be offering love advice to a complete stranger just because it would make Alex happy to have Cooper happy. "Well within reason that is."

"You mean you won't let me watch when you do it with Alex so I can get the idea?" Chris asked with mock seriousness.

"Very funny," Walter said chuckling. As they neared the front of the cabin he caught sight of Fox returning from his run. Walter would never get tired of watching the grace with which Fox Mulder moved. The muscles on his long legs rippled as they pounded the ground. Fox in motion always reminded Walter of a thoroughbred horse that had been given his head to run free.

Fox ran up to them and continued to jog in place to cool down. "I see you had a good catch. Uhm… Chris that's not what you were wearing when you left earlier…"

Looking down at his clothes Chris said, "No wonder you were in the FBI…nothing gets past you. I fell in the creek and had to change."

"How was your run Fox?" Walter asked, attempting to see what mood his young lover was in. He knew he was still in deep shit with Mulder but he hoped that the run had somewhat lessen the anger.

"Refreshing and calming," Fox replied looking at him from his bent over position as he continued to do his cool down exercises.

"Glad to hear it," Walter said smiling. "Any sign of Alex and Cooper?"

"Nope…I was finishing my run when I saw you two."

"They shouldn't…" Chris began to say when they heard a shot reverberate through the valley. "That was Cooper's rifle."

"You sure?" Walter asked as a second shot rang out.

"Either Cooper or poachers. No one else should be on the property. We better go check it out. The Spud wouldn't fire without reason."

The three men took off running.

"Alex!" Fox and Walter shouted simultaneously as they followed Chris up the path. When they finally reached their lover they both fell to their knees on either side of Alex, who was on his knees, the rifle cradled against his chest as he stared unseeingly towards where Cooper lay.

Chris rushed to Cooper's side and tried to push the body of the dead animal off his friend, "Cooper… Coop answer me…Walter I need your help."

"Stay with him Fox," Walter said and stood to hustle to Chris' side. "Is he alright?"

"Can't tell," Chris said his voice full of worry, "I'll lift the bear and you pull Cooper out." Between the two men they finally managed to shift the bear enough to pull Cooper out from under it's dead weight. "Coop… Coop…Spud please…please answer me."

"Fox how is Alex?" Walter called out over his shoulder.

"In shock…I can't get him out of it," Fox yelled back and turned back to talking to Alex. "Alexei… come on Alex you are scaring me…don't faze out…ALEX!"

Krycek's eyes snapped to Fox's voice and they finally focused, "Fo…Fox? Fox?"

"Yeah sweetie…yeah it's me," Fox said sighing in relief, "Are you hurt?"

"Coop? Coop? Is he…did I hit him…I aimed…aimed for the bear…but…Gods did I kill him too?" Alex's voice was filled with uncertainty and fear.

"Walter? Walter how is Cooper?" Fox asked without taking his eyes off Alex's face, afraid that if he looked away Alex would slip into a disassociate state again.

Cooper groaned and opened one eye to look into the concerned faces of Chris and Walter, "Hurts."

"Where…where does it hurt kiddo," Chris asked with immense relief that Cooper was at least conscious. When the younger man made a grab for his left arm Chris stopped him, "Okay. Anywhere else? Good. Okay don't move…I'll pick you up and get you back…take it easy."

"I'm going back to Alex…do you need help?" Walter asked and when Chris shook his head, he moved back to Alex. "Cooper is fine. It's just his arm."

"See Alex…everything is okay," Fox said reassuringly, "Come on get up. We need to get back to the cabin before it gets too dark. Come on let Walter and I help you."

"He's alright?" Alex asked, his voice hoarse, "You sure?"

"Yes Alex he is," Fox assured him as both he and Walter helped Alex up. "Let's get to the cabin so you can both be looked after. Come on Alex…"

"He's finally asleep," Chris said to Walter as he came out of Cooper's room. "How's Alex?"

"Fox has got him in the bath. I'm on my way to help him get Alex out, but wanted to check on Coop so I could give Alex some news."

"Tell him Cooper will be fine. There are some deep scratches but nothing broken. Coop's leather jacket took the brunt of it. If Alex hadn't reacted as soon as he did it would have been a very different story. I owe Alex…I don't know how to repay him."

"Chris, Alex doesn't want anything more than to get to know his brother and to see Cooper happy. We think you'd make Coop happy so if you want to repay Alex…get your head out of the sand and do something about it."

"You don't mince words do you Skinner," Chris said shaking his head, "I can't promise you anything but one thing is for sure. Seeing Cooper laying there, thinking he was dead, was a wake up call. I don't think I want to let any more time pass without telling him how I feel."

"Well then I'll leave you to it," Walter said smiling, "I'm going to join Fox and Alex. There is some soup in the stove and I made some sandwiches, help yourself. Let me know if you need any help with Cooper."

"Thanks Walter. I mean it. Thanks for the talk earlier, thanks for all your help. Alex is a lucky man."

"No Chris…I'm the lucky man. Good night."

"Good night."

"You warm enough sweetheart?" Walter asked Alex as he spooned in closer to the younger man.

"Yeah," Alex replied as he snuggled back into the large body behind him. "Fox?"

"Yeah baby?"

"Are you still mad at me?"

"I was never mad at you Alex," Fox replied as he stroked his lover's face with his fingertips.

"Still mad at me then?" Walter asked from behind Alex.

"You either Big Guy," Fox assured Walter. "I was hurt and I reacted stupidly. I'm sorry I was such an ass."

"What exactly pissed you off Fox," Walter asked, "I mean I think we know but we don’t want to ever make you as sad as we did today and well…"

"You know when we all talked about the fact that there would be times when not all three of us would have sex together? Remember we all agreed that we should have some couple times? But if the three of us where together we would be allowed to not join it. I didn't have that choice."

"Yes," Alex answered his voice soft and full of regret. He knew that by going into Walter's bed the previous night he had hurt Fox. "Fox…it was all my fault not Walter's. I never meant to hurt you."

"I know Alex, I know," Fox said kissing him sweetly, "Like I said, I overreacted. Something happened I haven't told you about. I got a e-mail from my publisher."

"You did?" Walter asked surprised, "Why didn't you tell us? Was it bad news?"

"It's all on how you look at it? He said they did some kind of test audience thingy. You know they had a bunch of people read parts of the book and he said the results were very positive. A ninety-one percent interest across all demographics tested…whatever that means."

"That is great news Fox," Alex said excitedly. "But why aren't you happy?"

"Patrick told me that as soon as I get back we need to start discussing the book tour. That I will be doing a lot of traveling. I'm going to be on the road a lot and all that was running through my head… you know…I kept thinking all the time I was going to be away from you guys and then…"

"And then you heard us having sex right next door and not even thinking about having you join us. We are a couple of weasels…you should have us shot," Alex said seriously.

"Fox, you do know that you have nothing to worry about," Walter said reaching over Alex and stroking Fox's face reassuringly, "You are the glue that binds us together, without you we are not complete. I love you more than life itself and if we hurt you it was unintentional. You have to believe that. I could not be prouder than you. You are going to be a successful author and even though you are going to be gone from home it doesn't matter because I don't need to hold you in my arms to love you. I hold you in my heart, you take that wherever you go."

Fox was so touched by Walter's words he was left speechless. He buried his head under Alex's chin as the younger man pulled him closer.

"What he said," Alex said kissing the top of Fox's head. "Fox. I wouldn't be here…hell I wouldn't be alive nor have a family if it wasn’t for you. I not only love you but I will be forever in your debt. You gave me my life."

"Will the two of you just fuck me for Chrissakes," Fox said, his voice hoarse with desire. "It's been two whole days."

"How do you want us lover?" Alex asked as he disentangled himself from Walter's embrace and rolled over until he was draped over Fox.

"This is a good start," Fox began to say before his mouth was engulfed by Alex's lips in a toe-curling kiss. "Mmmm…mmmmm…" Fox moaned as his tongue battled with Alex's.

"Hey you guys aren't you forgetting someone," Walter growled and when they ignored him he tried one of Fox's usual tricks and pouted, "Guuuuys….helloooo, little Wally is lonely over here."

Fox and Alex stopped in mid-kiss, looked at each other, then at Walter's groin and then at each other and burst out laughing. Fox rolled Alex's off him and turned to face Walter, "There is nothing little about Wally. He fits just right in my mouth. Want me to show you?"

"Oh Gods yes…but…but we need to pleasure you first…so how about if I see how little Fox fits in my mouth first?" Walter said grinning like the cat that ate the canary.

"And I can just hang back here and find something to do with Big Al…uhmmmm…now what can I do with Big Al? I know! He can play hide and hit the prostate."

"Oh my favorite game," Fox said and wiggled his bottom into Alex's rampant erection. "Dear God… Walter…Walter…Wal…Walter…you are going to suck my…geezus…my prostate throu…through my dick…kkkk…"

Looking over Fox's shoulder at the enthusiastic way Walter was sucking Fox's penis, Alex said, "Don't worry Foxlet, I'll get it from back here," and suiting action to words popped one finger through the tight ring off muscles. "Nope…can't get it this way…may be two fing…fingers will be better."

"Good…good that's good," Fox moaned as the twin sensations of having his dick sucked and his ass played with drove him towards the edge, "You…you are…are almost there…maybe something a little longer?"

"A little longer? Huh! How about this?" Alex said in mock annoyance and positioned himself at Fox's entrance and shoved gently forward, "Tell me…when Big Al hits home will…will you?"

But Fox was too close to the edge to be able to form a intelligible answers, and the only sounds filling the room where the moans and groans of ecstasy, followed by the screams of release as first Fox then Alex came. Walter joined soon after, having brought himself to orgasm with his hand.

Minutes later, as the three men laid sated and happy, Walter pulled a sleepy Alex against his chest, "You were very brave today. You saved Cooper's life. Chris is very thankful."

"Thanks Walter," Alex said with a big yawn. "But I was scared shitless. That bear was the biggest fucking animal I've ever seen."

"Oh and Fox…you were right. I had a long talk with Chris, and he does have feeling for Cooper."

Alex turned around and stared at Walter with open-mouthed surprise, "He is? That's great. I had a talk with Coop and he has feelings for Chris." Turning back to Fox, who had closed his eyes and was attempting to sleep, Alex asked, "So what do we do now? How do we get them together? Fox? Fox?"

Without opening his eyes Fox said, "Well…if all the moaning and screaming we just did, don't give them any ideas, maybe we could give them a live show. But right now I am just too tired. Go to sleep Alex."

"But Fox…"

"Alexei, Fox is right," Walter said as he settled down in the bed, "We can't push them if they are not ready. We've gotten the ball rolling now it is up to them." Hearing a muffled giggle from Fox, he asked, "What's so funny Fox?"

"You two. I guess I hadn't seen it before…"

"Seen what?" both of his lovers asked simultaneously.

"Well…there were not little white wings and no diaper…so I didn't see it…"

"What the hell are you talking about Fox?" Walter asked getting slightly annoyed but at the same time happy to see Mulder's good humor had returned.

"I just didn't see that I my two lovers had turned into cute Cupids."

"Cu…Cu…Cupid?" Alex spluttered in surprise, "If…if I wasn't so tired I'd exact my revenge on you for that insult."

"Insult?" Fox asked, "What insult? Cupid is cute, and chubby and very, very adorable. Just like you and Walter."

"Alex…you better go to sleep," Walter suggested, "You know you can't win when he gets in one of these moods. You can tickle him to death tomorrow. Love you boys."

"Love you too Walter," came back the sleep but very contented reply.

"They seem to be having fun."

"You are awake. How are you feeling?" Chris asked, putting the book he was reading down and moving to sit on the edge of the bed.

"Sore…but okay I guess," Cooper said wincing as he shifted. "You did a pretty good job with the arm."

"I've patched you up enough times," Chris said with a slight smile, "But to tell you the truth…this time you scared me half to death. When I saw you laying there I…I thought I'd never…"

Cooper looked up into the deep blue eyes of his best friend and reached out with his good hand to touch Chris' arm, "I…I had a talk with Alex…Chris…I…"

"Sssshh, you need to rest now. Why don't you get some sleep and we can talk in the morning."

"No. I got to say this. Chris…I…would you sleep with me…just sleep. I want you to hold me."

Looking at the man he had known for so many years and who he had loved for almost as long, Chris smiled, this time wider, and nodded, "I think I can do that. But tomorrow we talk…okay?"

"Uhmmm," Cooper said as Chris slid into the bed next to him and slowly maneuvered him into his arms. "This feels good. Thanks."

Chris looked down at the man snuggled into his embrace and took a deep breath. He wasn’t sure what he was getting into by revealing his love for Cooper, but he was sure it would be an interesting ride.

Running his hand gently through Cooper's long hair, Chris murmured, "My pleasure…believe me."

Fox Mulder looked around the table at the four other men and tried not to chuckle. Everyone was avoiding everyone else's eyes as they tried to eat lunch. They had all slept in and missed breakfast. He watched as Chris reached for the potatoes at the same time Coop did and how both pulled back as if burned. Walter and Alex were also unusually subdued, having figured out that last night's love making session had been overheard by the other two.

Fox stood, walked to the kitchen and finding a pad and paper scribbled something quickly. He came back to the table and propped the pad against the bottle of ketchup. 'Dr. Fox Mulder, Psychologist. The Doctor is IN.'

"What are you doing Fox?" Walter asked looking at his lover with confusion. The same look was on the face of the other three men.

"By the way you four are behaving I think my services are required. Mind you it's been a while but I think I can still handle it."

"Handle what?" Chris asked.

"It is obvious you all want to talk about things but aren't sure how to start. So I'm here to make it easier. Why don't we all go to the living room and sit. We'll be more comfortable there." As Fox stood and walked to the living room the other four had no choice but follow. Fox sat on the easy chair while Walter and Alex took on of the couches and Chris and Coop the other. "Good…who wants to start? No one? Okay I'll start the ball rolling. Chris, Cooper I know you both overheard us three going at it last night and that Alex and Walter are a little embarrassed about it. But I also know that both of them talked to you separately and told you about the other's feeling."

Chris glanced at Cooper and when he saw that Cooper was glancing at him averted his eyes. "This… this isn't easy Fox. You guys are more open about your…uhm…your feelings."

"It took a while Chris. It didn't happen overnight…we are still working out the kinks," Fox assured him. "But you have something we didn't have."

"What?"

"You and Cooper were friends before you fell in love…don't look at me like that. Love is not four letter word…well it is a four letter word, but not the bad kind of four letter word. Walter and I didn't start out as friends…hell we didn't like each other most of the time. And Alex…don’t get me started there. The point is that between the three of us there is so much emotional baggage that we would need ten pack-mules to carry it all. You and Cooper don't have all that to worry about."

"But…but I never…I mean I wouldn't know…what…what to do," Cooper stammered as he blushed.

"You do what comes naturally Cooper," Walter said. "Believe me it is awkward as hell the first time but with practice and a lot of patience you get it right eventually. And believe me it is a lot of fun getting it right."

Alex could not help but chuckle, "Sure is," he murmured into his chest. Looking up he said, "Cooper don't make the same mistake I did. Don't let fear of the unknown stop you from being happy."

"Are you happy Alex?" his twin asked, "Are you really happy…with everything. I know you are happy with the…uhm…sex, but what about the other thing."

"Other thing?" Fox asked looking at this lover who seemed to be wanting the couch to eat him. "What other thing Alex? Alexei? Don't make me use the two full names. What is he talking about?"

"I kinda…well it sort of slipped out that we have a…discipline relationship," Alex mumbled as he shrunk further down into the couch, "I'm sorry Fox…Walter, I know that was private but…but I…"

"Don't take the full blame Alex…I kinda let it slip out to Chris too," Walter said reddening.

Fox took a deep breath and after glaring at his two, now very mortified lovers, he turned to Chris and Coop who were no less uncomfortable, "Well since it seems I have two blabber mouths in my family we might as well get it out in the open. Yes it is true that we have a discipline relationship but that doesn't mean that you have to as well. Just like there are Dom/sub, BDSM and all sorts of other kinds of relationships. It could be an aspect of your relationship you grow into."

"So what do you suggest we do? How do we start?" Chris asked.

Before Fox could reply Cooper interrupted him by turning to Chris and asking, "You really want this?"

For an answer Chris reached over and mindful of Cooper's injured arm pulled him closer. Once he had him close enough he leaned in and tentatively kissed him. Both men closed their eyes as the kiss deepened. A moment later, when they pulled back, Chris looked at the flushed face of the man that had just become his lover and said, "I really want this."

Fox stood and said, "Well gentlemen my work here is done. I suggest you go to your room and talk this out in private. And speaking of private I think I would like to have a word with you two." The tone of Fox's voice left no doubt what the talk would be about and both Alex and Walter looked at each other nervously and then back at Fox who was staring at them with his arms crossed. "Why don't we go outside in the fresh air. We'll see you two later…much later."

Alex and Walter stood and without looking at the other two men left the cabin, looking like they were heading to their execution.

"Fox…they didn't mean to…" both Chris and Coop began to say but stopped when Fox put up his hand.

"Don't worry guys, I'm not going to do anything to them," Fox said grinning at them. "You two just worry about yourselves for now. There is…uhm…stuff you can use in Walter and Alex's bathroom if you…want to go that far today. And if you want to talk without an audience let me know."

Fox walked out of the cabin leaving the two men alone and not quite sure of what to do next. Cooper was the first to speak, "Chris…have you ever…I mean I haven't so…"

"I haven't either Spud," Chris said kissing the side of the younger man's head, "It'll be a new experience for both of us."

"You scared?"

"Petrified. But I can't think of anyone I rather take this journey with than you."

"Me too," Cooper said and this time initiated the kiss. When they broke apart he added, "Fox said something about finding stuff in the bathroom. And I think he is going to be busy with Walter and Alex for a while so…"

"Speaking of Walter and Alex and what Fox has planned for them…how do you feel about that?"

"You mean about getting a…spanking? Gods it even sounds weird saying it. I guess it works for them. Why? Do you…I mean you think we…I don't know if…"

"Like Fox said, it is too soon for us to decide on it…but one thing is for sure. If we ever decide to add discipline to our relationship, I'm gonna remember the little stunt you pulled."

"Stunt?" Coop asked sitting up straighter and opening his eyes wide.

"Don't give me the innocent puppy look Cooper Nicholas, you know exactly what I mean. You were told specifically not to go to the mines. If I hadn't known you so well I would have looked for you at the clearing not at the mine when we heard Alex's shot."

"I'm sorry Chris," Cooper said infusing as much sincerity into his words as he could, "Can't we just not think about that for now?"

"Okay Spud, okay," Chris said smiling, "Your butt is safe for now. Come on…let's go see what we can find." Standing he put out his hand for Cooper to grab and when he pulled the younger man upright he pulled him into a hug, "Cooper whatever happens next…I don't want it to change our friendship. Can you promise me that?"

"I've known you all my life Chris and loved you almost as long. Nothing either of us do will ever change that. You are my best friend. But…I'm kinda getting anxious to turn you into something else… so could we continue this conversation in the bedroom."

Feeling the obvious erection pressed between them Chris smiled and kissed Cooper's nose, "I think I can manage that. Let's go baby."

Fox Mulder was enjoying himself thoroughly at the moment. He had helped Cooper and Chris express their true feelings for each other and was hopeful that both men would develop a long lasting and loving relationship, similar to the one he was developing with the two men now standing in front of him. Walter Skinner and Alex Krycek were shifting uncomfortably from foot to foot, looking to all the world like two naughty five year olds having gotten caught with their hands in the cookie jar.

"Fox say something, just don't stand there glaring at us," Walter asked and stuffed his hands in the pocket of his jeans just to seconds later pull them out and cross them over his ample chest.

"I didn't realize I was glaring Walter," Fox said pleasantly. "Was I glaring Alex?"

Alex looked up from under his long lashes and shrugged, "Let's just get it over with okay? I hate the waiting part."

"What are you talking about Alex?" Fox said, his tone even.

"You are gonna punish us for telling them about our relationship aren't you?"

"No. I thought about it for about a split second. I was pissed at first but I figured that we are in it together. This relationship is yours too so if you want to let others know about it."

"So why did you want us to come out here?" Walter asked confused.

"Because I figured Chris and Cooper needed some privacy and because when we make love now I don't want to worry about anyone overhearing us."

"You want to make love?" Alex said smiling broadly, "Out here?"

"Well not right outside the cabin," Fox said grinning back, "While I was jogging yesterday I found a little clearing at the edge of the lake. What do you say?"

"I say what are we waiting for?" Walter said smiling.

"Oh I did forget to mention the clearing is aaaaallll the way at the far end of the lake," Fox said as he started jogging in place, "So if we want to go there, have hot monkey sex and then be back before nightfall we need to jog."

"That's our punishment isn't it," Alex groaned as he too began to jog in place, but with a lot less enthusiasm that Fox.

"No, your punishment is when I tell Scully about our discipline relationship," Fox said laughing as he took off running.

Walter and Alex looked at each other in horror and screamed "FOX! You wouldn't!" and took off after their mischievous lover.

"Uhmm…this is nice," Walter murmured as he settled Fox more comfortably between his legs.

"I'm kinda cold though," Alex said sleepily as he snuggled into Walter's side.

"Maybe we shouldn't have taken all our clothes off, just our pants," Fox said and wiggled his body upward so he was laying face down on top of Walter. He reached over and ran his fingers through Alex's hair, "Your hair is getting long baby."

"I'll get it cut before school starts," Alex said leaned into Fox's touch, "I like it short."

"As long as that is the only thing you like short," Walter said smiling as he reached down and pulled Alex's hand towards his groin.

"You can't be ready to go again Walter," Alex said with surprise and when he caught the glint in the older man's eye he added, "But who am I to argue with your libido."

"But I'm so comfortable on my Walter bed," Fox whined, not wanting to be moved.

"How about if I suck Walter? That way you don't have to move, just spread your legs so I can get better access," Alex suggested as he came to his knees.

"Sounds good to me."

Alex moved to position himself between Walter's legs and lowered his head over the erection that was sticking straight up in the air, propped against Mulder's buttocks. Alex's mouth descended gently over the tip of the weeping cock but couldn't reach it easily, so he butted Mulder's bottom with his head.

"That tickles Alex," Mulder said squirming as the hair on top of Alex's head rubbed against his backside, "Feels good."

"Glad you like it Foxlet but I need you to move up or I can't do my job."

"Oh, okay," Fox grumbled and moved up slightly.

"Don't pout Fox," Walter said and put his hand on the back of Mulder's head and pulled him in for a kiss. He first gave the full lips a quick peck but soon intensified the kiss and slipped his tongue into Fox's mouth. He continued to ravish his lover's mouth as Alex began to attack his cock in earnest.

Walter put his hands on Fox's thighs and urged him forward, causing Fox to sit up on Walter's chest.

Taking hold of Fox's penis Walter began to play with it, bringing it to a full erection within moments.

Moans of passion filled the little clearing as the men pleasured each other. Walter came first, spilling his seed in Alex's mouth. Fox arched back and let his semen flow into Walter's hand and chest. "That was great," Fox said as he regained his breath, "But…now we need to take care of Alex."

"Just lean back a little," Alex said and straddled Walter's hip, "Are we too heavy for you Big Guy?"

"I'll let you know," Walter said and squirmed beneath the warm bodies on top of him. "I kind of like the feeling of both of you on top of me having sex."

"You are so kinky sometimes Snickerdoodle," Fox said grinning and leaned down to kiss him.

"You ready Fox?" Alex asked as he nudged the tip of his erect penis against Mulder's opening.

"For you always baby."

Alex slowly inched forward and pushed through the tight ring of muscles. Fox was still slick from Walter's earlier visit so Alex had no trouble sliding right in. Alex was so primed and anxious that it didn't take him long to orgasm into Fox's passage.

Moments later the three men were laying side by side, pleasantly sated and just happy to be together. A rustling sound from the trees behind them brought them alert in seconds.

"What was that?" Alex asked glancing nervously around.

"I think we had an audience. Look," Walter said, but he was smiling as he pointed. Out of the trees stepped out a half-grown doe. Her big brown eyes staring inquiringly at the three naked men. A rabbit soon joined her and a couple of curious squirrels made their way down a nearby tree.

"Wow this is really cool," Alex said his eyes wide with wonder. "I've never seen a deer this close."

"It is unusual for them to get this close but if we stay really still she might come closer," Walter whispered. "She is beautiful."

"Uhm…Walter," Fox said urgently tapping on Skinner's shoulder.

"Fox…be quiet you'll spook her," Walter reprimanded him without taking his eyes of the doe and her little friends.

"Walter…Walter," Fox said continuing to tap Walter's shoulder.

"What!" Walter said annoyed at the interruption and turned to see what was making Fox so nervous. His eyes widened in surprise as they fell on the latest addition to the clearing. "Shit."

"What is it?" Alex asked rolling to a sitting position to look behind him. "Fuck! A skunk."

"Okay. Don't panic. Get up reaaaaaly slow and careful," Walter said and began to stand. "Try to reach your clothes and then we'll back out of here as quietly as possible."

Both of the younger men did as he requested and were attempting to reach their clothing which was scattered around the clearing. Alex had just managed to get his hands on a shirt when the skunk wiggled towards them.

"I suggest we get the hell out of here," Walter said urgently as he picked up a couple of pieces of clothing, not really looking to see whom they belong to.

Suddenly the little skunk sat up in its haunches and three grown men screamed in panic, "RUN!"

The trio scrambled out of the clearing, not really giving a damn to the fact that there were butt naked. They ran for a few yards before they felt there were a safe distance from the clearing. They stopped and tried to catch their breath. It started as a giggle from Fox and quickly developed into a full-blown belly laugh from Walter and gasps of laughter from Alex. Soon they were rolling on the ground, laughing so hard that they had to grab their sides.

"Oh man that was wild," Fox said breathlessly, "Scully will never believe this."

"Spea…speaking of Scu…Scully," Walter said between gasps, "You were kidding bef…before about telling her…telling her about our you…you know."

"That's for me to know and you to worry about," Fox said grinning mischievously, "Come on guys we better get back. Chris and Cooper have had enough time to get…uhm…acquainted in the carnal sense and they might need to talk it out."

"Yeah…I remember my first time," Alex said, "I had so many question and no one to ask. I hope they were careful and didn't rush it. It's not easy…the first time. I hope Chris was careful or I'll have to hurt him if he hurt my brother"

"You might have it all wrong Alex. Maybe Chris was the receiver. We'll play it by ear," Fox said slipping on his shirt, "Did either of you pick up my pants?"

"I have a pair here but I think it's Walter," Alex said handing the pants to Skinner, "How about anything of mine."

Fox and Walter looked at what each of them was holding and shook their heads, "Sorry Alex we just didn't have time. Here you can borrow my undershirt," Walter said.

"Great, I'm gonna freeze my nuts off," Alex grumbled as he slipped the undershirt over his head.

"I'll warm them up for you when we get back," Fox said grinning slyly, "Come on, let's get going."

"What about our clothes?" Alex asked as he began moving.

"We'll get them later," Walter said, "Hopefully the skunk didn't bring his friends along and made a nest out of the clothes."

"Oh great, I loved those jeans," Alex groused, "I really liked the way they fit."

"Me too," Fox said, "They hugged your cute little ass so perfectly."

"I'll volunteer for that job any day," Walter said wiggling his eyebrows suggestively.

The three men returned to the cabin in high spirits.

"Thank God you are back," Cooper exclaimed as he flung the door to the cabin open. "What the hell happened to your clothes…never mind that now…I think we did something wrong. I mean we tried to be really careful, we really did…but neither of us have ever done this and you see…I think we did something wrong…because…oh Gods…there was…oh Gods…"

Alex looked at Fox and Walter and could tell they were as confused by Cooper's babbling as he was but being that he was the babbler's brother he figured it was his duty to do something. Stepping up to the obviously upset man he did the only think he could think of and slapped him.

Cooper brought his had automatically to his face and glared at his twin, "What the hell did you do that for Alex?"

"You were babbling…babbling is not a good look for us…trust me."

"I think babbling is quite adorable on you Alex," Fox said with a big grin on his face, "Especially after we have sex…you babble…"

"Fox that's enough teasing," Walter said chuckling, "Cooper lets go inside and you can tell us what happened." The foursome entered the cabin and Walter suggested Cooper take a seat.

"No…I need to see if Chris is alright. I think I hurt him…there…there was blood," Cooper said blanching and sitting down as his legs gave out. "He's gonna hate me…Jeezus…what am I gonna do?"

"Coop I'll go see how Chris is," Walter said, "Alex and Fox will stay with you. Don't worry, I'm sure everything is fine." Walter left his lovers to take care of Cooper.

"Walter is right Cooper," Fox said soothingly, "You probably didn't prepare him properly that's all. It happens."

"Did it happen to you?" Coop said looking like he was about to cry. "Or you," he added turning to Alex.

"It doesn't happen every time Coop," Alex said trying to assure his brother, "Walter will make sure Chris is alright."

"Okay," Cooper said taking a deep breath, "Now tell me why you aren't wearing any underwear."

Walter knocked on the door to the bedroom and hearing no response opened it slowly. He stuck his head in and looked around. It didn't take him long to figure that Chris was in the bathroom as he heard the water running. "Chris? Are you alright?" Skinner asked as he knocked on the door.

"I'll be out in a sec," Chris said and to Walter's relief did not sound as if he was in any distress.

A moment later the door opened and Chris stepped out wearing sweatpants and a tee shirt.

"I know this is kinda awkward but you really freaked Cooper out," Walter said sheepishly, "I told him I would check to make sure you were alright."

"You gonna take my word for it or you wanna check my ass," Chris asked, crossing his arms over his ample chest. "I'm fine…really. I guess we didn't prep enough and he tore me up a bit."

"Well the way he makes it sound you lost a pint," Walter said smiling. "You sure?"

"I think you really want to check out my ass," Chris said with a mock growl, "Oh come on Walter this is ridiculous, it was just a little blood. I loose more when I cut myself shaving. I am a little sore I admit but nothing too bad."

"Was it worth it? Cooper will want to know. He is really upset."

Chris smiled and joined Walter at the foot of the bed, taking a seat next to him. "It was the most incredible feeling in the world. It was like we were one…connected you know. I guess I don't have to tell you how it felt."

"Well you've got one scared young man out there. He thinks you hate him."

"I thought letting him take the lead would be best. I didn't want him to think that I thought I would be the top in our relationship. I wanted to make sure he knew I wanted us to be equal."

"Fox and Alex are with him now and I am sure they are putting all his fears to rest. But I did promise that I would make sure you were alright…so let's get it over with."

"What! You are kidding right? I ain't letting you look at my butt…forget it…no way…no how, period end of conversation. Don't look at me that way Walter."

Walter shrugged and stood up, "Okay, just make sure Cooper checks you out. If it is a bad tear you should really have it checked out."

"Yeah like I'm going to go to Doc Watkins and tell him that I'm bleeding out my ass," Chris said with a snort of laughter.

"Fine. We are here for two more days. If at any time you feel any discomfort or start bleeding again then you are going to find yourself bare-assed on this bed getting checked out. Got it?"

"Yes sir," Chris said grinning, "Believe me when I tell you not too many men talk to me like that and get away with it."

"Oh I don't doubt it. But my top priority is to make Fox and Alex happy and if Cooper is unhappy that is going to make Alex unhappy and if Alex is…"

"I get it, I get it," Chris said laughing, "We better go see my boy before he kills himself."

It didn't take long for Walter to convince Cooper that Chris was fine and the men settled down for a quiet dinner. They all had a good laugh when Alex explained what had happened to their clothes.

That night as Fox, Walter and Alex cuddled in bed they could not help but smile at the sounds coming from the room next door. It was obvious that the two other men were having sex.

"Who do you think is on top this time?" Fox asked with a huge yawn.

"That is none of our business babe," Walter said smacking Fox's rear sharply.

"Ouch! Yes sir," Fox said and pouted but quickly smiled when Walter kissed him.

"You are awful quite there Mr. Krycek," Walter commented to the man snuggled onto his side.

"Just thinking."

"So that was what I smelled," Fox said grinning at the sight of Alex sticking out his tongue at him.

"So what where you thinking about?"

"We leave in two days," was all Alex said.

The tone of his voice let Walter and Fox know that Alex was upset and when Alex was upset he could be very volatile.

"Alex you and Coop have a bond now," Walter said gently as he rubbed the younger man's back. "Now matter how far away you are physically you'll always be together. Just like me and my brothers."

"Yeah Walter but you had a lifetime to get to know them and like them. What if Cooper figures out he doesn't want me as a brother."

"I thought you were over your insecurity Alex," Fox said sitting up and turning on the bedside lamp.

Squinting at the sudden glare Krycek said, "Its so hard not to think about it. I keep thinking he'll find out more about the things I've done and be disgusted with me."

"Well if he is that sort of a man, which I know he is not, he is not worth knowing," Walter said kissing the top of Alex's head. "Alex you've had a hard life and made difficult choices, if Cooper can't get past that then you don't need him in your life."

"Yeah Alex, stop being such a worry wart," Fox said leaning over Walter to kiss Alex soundly on the lips. "Hey I think that's what I'll call you from now on. Wart."

"Don't you dare," Alex said launching himself at Fox and grabbing him. The two struggled playfully until Walter grabbed them by their necks and pulled them apart.

"Children, it is well past midnight and we need to get some sleep, so behave," he gave their necks a little shake and then released them.

"Yes Daddy," the two said in unison and then all three started laughing.

When they finally regained their composure Fox turned out the light and he and Alex snuggled back into their prior positions on either side of Walter. "Feeling better Taz?" Walter asked sleepily.

"Yes, thanks Walt," Alex said and yawned.

"Night Walt," Fox said and then very softly added, "Night Wart."

"Foooox," both Walter and Alex groaned simultaneously.

"Mind if I join you," Coop asked as he came out of the cabin.

Alex glanced up and shrugged, "It's your porch step. Where is everybody else?"

"They are finishing up packing. What's wrong? Tell big brother," Cooper said and nudged Alex with his shoulder and smiled when Alex stuck out his tongue at him.

"How's your arm?"

"Don't try to change the subject Alexei Nikolai."

"I'm just waiting for the shoe to drop I guess. It always does with me."

"What do you mean? What other shoe?"

"Things are just too good for me now," Alex said his voice huskier than usual, "One day I'm on my death bed and the next I…I'm…I'm in a relationship with two guys and…"

"Who you love and who love you…"

"Yeah…I do and I guess they do too…"

"Wait a minute," Cooper asked not believing his ears, "You mean to tell me that after all this time. After all I've seen and not to mention heard, you still have doubts about Walter and Fox? If my arm wasn't screwed up right now, I'd put you over my lap and whack your ass. "

"Woah!" Alex said surprised by the strength behind Cooper's words, "I know they love me. I get it okay. It's just hard to believe."

"Believe. You said and…what else are you having problem getting through that thick skull of yours."

"No need to be insulting…by the way my skull is just as thick as yours. I was going to say that I'm in a relationship with two guys, I get a ready-made family with all of Walter's relatives and then there is you."

"Me…what could possibly find wrong with me. I'm adorable."

Alex could not help but snort with laughter, "I always thought cowboys were quiet and brooding men. You are a weirdo."

"Hello pot this is kettle…you are black!"

Alex shook his head in disbelief, "Can't you be serious? I'm pouring my heart out here, and I don’t do that often."

Looking sheepish, Cooper said, "Sorry Alex. It's just that you are so serious about this. You have a great life now but you continuously worry. Fox is right we should call you Wart."

Cooper was surprised by Alex reaction when the other man jumped to his feet, "If you had gone through a hundredth of what I have gone through in my life you'd be scared to believe that…" Alex began angrily and then realizing what he was saying clamped his mouth shut. He took a deep breath and turned on his heel and took off towards the woods.

"Alex wait…I didn’t mean…damn it," Cooper watched as his twin disappeared into the woods. "Walter, Fox! Get out here quick."

"What happened?" Walter asked as he rushed out of the cabin, "Where is Alex?"

"I'm sorry…I was kidding around and he got upset and shit…I'm sorry."

"Take it easy Coop," Fox said trying to calm him down, "Talking with Alex is like trying to walk through a mine-field. You never know what is going to set him off. Which way did he go?"

"Into the woods," Cooper said glumly, pointing into the direction Alex had headed. "We better go look for him. We need to leave soon or it'll be dark by the time we get home."

"Why don't Chris and I go look for him and you stay here with Fox," Walter suggested and before Coop could argue quickly added, "Cooper, Alex just needs some time. I'll talk to him. Trust me."

"'Kay," Coop said not to convincingly, "Tell him I'm sorry Walter."

The younger man looked so forlorn that Walter could not help it when he pulled him into a hug, "Coop you are starting to act like Alex. Stop worrying."

"That's what we were talking about when he got mad," Cooper said settling into Walter's arms.

"We better get going Walt," Chris said gently pulling Cooper towards himself, "Spud it'll be fine."

"Come on Coop, help me finish packing," Fox said taking Cooper's arm, "Let them find Alex."

Walter and Chris took off leaving a very distraught Cooper in the capable hands of Fox Mulder.

"Alex?" Walter called out softly in order not to startle the other man. They had found Krycek sitting on a huge fallen tree trunk.

Alex turned slowly around to face his lover, "Hey Walter. What's up?"

"You tell me Taz," Walter said joining him on the trunk, "You just freaked your brother out."

"Yeah, it take a lot to rattle the Spud and you sure managed it," Chris added as he too entered the clearing.

"He said you bolted when he kidded you about worrying to much. What was that about Alex? What are you so worried about?" Walter asked putting his arm around Alex's shoulders.

"I can't help it Walter. Things are just to perfect."

"So you thought you'd push Coop away before he had a chance to push you away?" Walter asked gently. Alex dipped his head so his chin was resting almost against his chest and nodded once. "Babe I know it is hard to believe because everything happened so fast, but I really think you can trust Cooper…and I am not saying it only because Chris can beat me up." This last was said with a chuckle.

"Alex, you can take my word that Cooper is one of the most honest men I know. He would never tell you he cares for you if he really didn't. Besides, what does he have to gain by tricking you."

Alex furrowed his brow in consternation at not having a quick answer. He had to admit to himself that here was no reason he could think of that Cooper Donovan would have for saying he wanted to have him in his life.

"Chris would you mind giving me a few minutes with Alex," Walter asked, "I know how to get back to the cabin."

"Walter?" Alex asked suddenly nervous.

"Sure thing Walter," Chris said and gave Alex a sympathetic look, "I'll tell Coop that you are fine."

When the other man left them alone Walter turned to Alex and said, "We've had this discussion before Alex. Running away doesn't solve the problem it just makes it harder to fix."

"But…but I didn't really run away. I was planning on coming back. I swear," Alex said, desperately trying to avoid what he knew was coming.

"I know Alex, but there are different ways of running away. One thing is to walk away from an argument if you think you are going to do something dangerous, like hitting the other person. But you were mad and didn't give Cooper a chance to explain. You weren't very fair to him."

"I'm very sorry Walter," Alex said his voice cracking, "Please don't spank me. I'm sorry…I'll apologize to Cooper…I promise."

"Oh I expect you to apologize to him even after you are punished. So let's get this over with," Walter said and patted his lap.

Alex pouted and sighed pointedly as he rose and unzipped his jeans, pushing them down to his ankles. Giving Walter one last pitiful look he lowered himself over the broad lap. Alex gasped when he felt Walter's fingers tugging at his underpants and he wriggled his bottom nervously.

"Settle down Alexei," Walter said putting one hand gently on the upturned bottom that was quickly becoming covered by goose-bumps.

"My butt is cold," Alex whined.

"Don't worry love, I'll warm it up for you right away," Walter said and slapped the left buttock sharply making Alex groan. "Now tell me why we are here."

"For the fresh air? OUCH! Waaalter…okay…okay…I'm sorry. I'm getting spanked 'cause I didn't stay and talk to Cooper when I got mad at what he said."

"What did he say anyway?"

"He called me a Worry Wart…like Fox did. He said I worried too much and I told him he…he shouldn't talk because he didn't know anything about my life."

"And instead of staying and talking to him about it you decided to run. How do you think that made him feel Alex? He is just as afraid that you won't like him as you are. You've spent the last tow days talking about your lives and I doubt there is anything you don't know about each other."

"I didn't…didn't tell him everything. I thought if he knew…I was…I was a whore too…he would be… OUCH!…owwwww…Waaalter…st…stop…pleeeease…stooop."

"I. Don’t. Ever. Want. To. Hear. You. Call. Yourself. That. Again," Walter said, punctuating each word with a hard slap to Alex's bottom. He continued to rain spanks until Alex's backside was a fiery red and the young man was crying loudly. "You did what you had to do to survive. No one faults you for that but yourself."

"Owwww…Waahhh…Walter….please…ouch, stop…stop…stop please, sob…owwwweeee, I'll be goood…I promise…please stooop. Walter…please."

"I'll stop when I think you got it that I don't ever want to hear that word again, Alexei," Walter said gritting his teeth as he struggled to keep Alex from falling off his lap. The younger man was shaking furiously trying to avoid the spanks, making it hard for Skinner to keep a hold of him. "Do you understand me young man?"

Alex was too far-gone to reply and hung limply over Walter's knees crying his heart out. He didn't even notice when Walter stopped and pulled him up to sit on his lap, mindful of course of the glowing red behind. "It's over darling…come on Alex…Alexei? Alexei take a breath…come on honey."

Alex was finally able to get his crying under control and snuggled against Walter's chest. "It hurts."

"I'd hope so…my hand is killing me," Walter said chuckling as he rubbed Alex's back to help him calm down. "You heard what I said didn't you Alex? I don't ever want to hear you refer to yourself in that way again. I know Fox feels the same way."

"I feel the same way about what?" Fox asked entering the clearing. Seeing his lovers he didn't have any doubt what had just taken place. He walked up to them and hugged Alex from behind. "I don't know what Walter is talking about but I do know he wouldn't have spanked you if you didn't deserve it. So do you feel better?"

"No," Alex said pouting and leaned back into Fox's embrace. "My butt hurts, my nose is runny, my butt hurts, me head aches and did I mention my butt hurts."

"Well we better get back to the cabin so we can do something about that," Walter said and stood up.

"I don't want Cooper and Chris to know I got spanked," Alex said worriedly.

"I think Chris already figured it out," Walter said helping him pull his pants up. "Don't worry about it."

"Here, blow your nose Alex," Fox said handing him a tissue he had carried in his pocket just for that purpose.

The three men made their way back to the cabin.

Walter, Fox and Alex made their way back to the cabin after Alex's punishment. The door to the cabin burst open and Cooper rushed out like a bat out of hell.

"Alex! Are you alright? I'm so sorry…I didn't mean to make you angry. What happened? Why are your eyes red?"

"Slow down Coop," Alex said putting up his hand, "I'm fine."

"Why were you crying? Did…did…did you get? Did Walter?" Cooper asked his eyes growing wide.

Alex reddened but nodded and was surprised by his twin's reaction.

Coop turned and began shouting at a much surprised Walter, "Why did you punish him? He didn't do anything. It was my fault. Don't you think he has suffered enough?" This last was accompanied by a hard push against Walter's chest.

"COOPER!" Chris yelled and rushed to pull his lover away from the startled Skinner who was trying to fend off Cooper's firsts. "What's gotten into you Spud? Calm down."

"Let me go Chris," the younger man said as he struggled.

"I said that is enough," Chris said and to Cooper's infinite surprise turned him around and bent him over, delivering four quick smacks to his backside. Flipping the astonished young man around again he added, "I'm sorry I had to do that Spud but you were getting out of hand."

"You hit me. You never hit me before," Cooper said, his hand instantly going to rub his bottom.

"Now we are identical twins again," Alex said trying to break the uncomfortable moment.

Cooper who had forgotten he had had an audience to his impromptu spanking, turned to face his brother, "How can you kid around like that Alex? It hurts."

"That was nothing. I bet your ass is not even pink," Alex said grinning, "Right guys?"

"He's right Coop," Fox agreed, "You really haven't been spanked until your bottom is a deep shade of red. You've got your ruby red, your fiery red, your cherry red…"

"Don't forget fuchsia and crimson," Walter added and noticing Cooper was not looking too happy he added, "Come on Coop. I didn't do anything Alex, Fox and I haven't all agreed to do. I didn't hurt him."

"But he was crying?"

"Sure it hurts but it is not a permanent damage," Alex said trying to alleviate Cooper's fears. "I cried more from release than from any actual pain. I've suffered pain before…this doesn't even come close."

"Release?"

"Yeah…I was angry and upset and I did something stupid…I ran away. Walter loves me enough to make sure I don't do anything really dumb. Knowing that brings up a lot of emotions and that is why I cried."

Cooper turned to look at Chris who had been quietly standing behind him. "Is that why you did it? Why you hit me? Because you care?"

"You know I do Spud," Chris said taking him in his arms, "You were out of control and I didn’t want you to harm yourself. Have you seen the muscles on Walter? He would have crushed you and I don't want to loose you now that I have you."

"Are you gonna do that again?" Coop asked settling into the embrace.

"If I think you deserve it…yes."

"Can I spank you too?" Cooper asked pulling back to look up at his lover with a smile.

Chris put his hand behind Coop's head and pulled him back against his chest, "We'll talk about that, you brat. I think we really need to discuss this and make sure that it is something we both want in our relationship. But we'll have to leave it for later, we've got to get going."

"What!" Alex and Cooper said almost simultaneously, "You want me to ride a horse now!" Realizing they had both said the exact same thing they looked at each other and burst out laughing.

"Okay, okay," Chris said after he stopped grinning, "We'll wait half an hour to let your posteriors to regain their whiteness."

"Actually Chris it is more like an alabaster…"Walter said as the men entered the cabin.

"Or a creamy white," Fox added.

"You guys are a laugh riot you know that," Alex said in mock anger but gave Cooper a wink and a smile and was glad when his twin returned them.

"There are my boys," Rosie said as the five men arrived at the main house. "Did you have a good time at the cabin?"

"Let's say it was…enlightening," Cooper said smiling as he kissed her cheek.

"Well that does sound ominous," the older woman said chuckling, "Why don't you all go shower and I'll have supper ready in a jiffy."

"I'm starving," Cooper said dramatically rubbing his stomach, "I could eat a horse."

"That's an interesting thing to say at a horse ranch," Fox said smiling. "But I'm a kind of hungry now that you mention it."

"It's the mountain air," Chris said and put his arm around Cooper's shoulder as they all moved towards the bedrooms. "We have an early day tomorrow. I'd thought we take the truck…that way we can all go to the airport, the plane is too small for five."

"'Kay," Cooper said no longer grinning.

"Come on Cooper, cheer up. Let's not put a damper on the last evening together okay?"

"That's right Coop," Walter chimed in, "We'll keep in touch via e-mail, phone…"

"And if you want to remember what Alex's face looks like all you have to do is look in the mirror," Fox added.

Cooper and Alex couldn't help but laugh which was exactly what Fox hoped would happen. Alex pouting was bad…Alex pouting in stereo was nothing he wanted to experience.

"Let's take a shower so we can have supper," Walter suggested and steered his two lovers to their rooms and let Chris do the same with Cooper.

"You know Walter we could get to eat a lot sooner if we showered together," Fox suggested wriggling his eyebrows up and down.

"As much as I would love that Foxlet I don’t think it is a good idea with Rosie just down the hall."

"But Walter she can't hear anything through two closed doors," Fox said sticking his lower lip out for full pouting effect. "Come on Alexei help me convince him."

"No Fox…Walter is right, I don't want to chance it…"

Growing suddenly angry Fox said, "You didn't have any problem chancing it the other night when you snuck…"

"Fox!" Walter said surprised by the outburst, "I thought we had discussed it and both Alex and I apologized for ignoring you. Are you going to be bringing that up every time you don’t get your way? I didn't think you'd use those tactics in our relationship."

Fox, taken aback by Walter's harsh words, and looked down sheepishly, "I'm…I'm sorry Walter…Alex you are right. That was totally uncalled for. Please forgive me."

Walter softened his stance and pulled Fox into a hug. Holding Mulder against him with one hand he delivered two stinging spanks with the other. "I don't want emotional blackmail in this relationship Fox. You got that. Now strip, get in the shower and wait for me. This little session is not over."

Fox stepped back from the hug and looked at Walter, his eyes wide and apprehensive. He turned to look at Alex and saw the sadness in the beautiful green eyes he adored. He swallowed the lump in his throat and ran to the bathroom.

"You aren't really going to spank him are you?" Alex asked.

"I don't like what he almost did Alex," Walter said as he began to take his clothes off, "If I hadn't cut him off he could have said something worse. Why don't you go take a shower in the your bedroom and Fox and I will join you as soon as we are done."

"I should be there Walter," Alex said taking a deep breath, "I think that even though he says he is okay with what we did and didn't want to punish us for it he has it bottled up inside him. I think he needs to release it or it will eat at him."

Walter looked at his young lover with new appreciation, "When did you get the psychology degree Alexei?"

Alex chuckled, "I guess hanging around Fox rubbed some off it on me."

Walter wrapped his arms around him and hugged him tightly, "And what is rubbing off from me?"

"I'm learning patience," Alex said seriously and with mischief in his eyes added, "And I can't wait to get it right."

Walter threw his head and laughed, "You have a strange sense of humor my love."

Growing suddenly serious Alex said, "But there is nothing funny about Fox's feelings. We really hurt him Walter."

"And we apologized and he refused to punish us," Walter said, "But you are right Alex…he needs to release it and if the way to do it is for me to spank him so be it. We better get this over with or they'll be wondering what happened to us."

Entering the bathroom they were surprised to see their lover standing in a corner. He was totally naked and shivering slightly.

"Fox? Come here…please," Walter said and was further surprised to see Fox's eyes full of tears and the tracks of the ones already fallen lining his cheeks. "Oh baby, it’s okay…we are okay."

"Sorry…so sorry," Fox sobbed and wrapped his arms around his chest, "I'm sorry."

Alex was the one to pull Fox into a hug this time and rubbed his lips lightly over the falling tears, kissing each eyelid gently, "We love you so much Fox…and we are so sorry we hurt you. You've got to let it go. Please don't let this ruin what we have."

"Nev…nev…ver…I'll never ruin it," Fox sobbed wretchedly, "I…I love you…too…too much…sssa…say you for…forgive me…pleaseee."

Walter wrapped his strong arms around both of them and kissed the top of Fox's head, "We forgive you and now you have to forgive yourself Fox. Let's get it over with and you'll feel much better. Okay?"

Nodding hesitantly Fox said, "Where do you want me?"

The bathroom was larger than a normal bathroom and the bathtub had a wide ledge. Walter took a seat and patted his lap, "Here. It'll be quick Fox…Alex and I are just as much to blame." He waited until Fox was lying butt up on his lap, "Want to tell me why you are getting spanked?"

"I lied…when I said I was not up…upset anymore about…you and Alex…leaving me out. I thought I was okay wi…with it but I guess…I wasn't. I tried to use it as…emo…emotional blackmail. I'm sorry."

"Okay Fox," Walter said and put his hand tenderly on Mulder's bottom, "I promise…it'll be a quick one." With that he began to slap the previously white buttocks. True to his word he spanked quickly but not any less sharply and soon Fox was bawling. Walter sensed it was more from the tension that he had kept bottled up the last couple of days than from the actual pain. Over and over again his hand felt. Looking up at Alex, who was leaning against the counter, he saw that it was not only Mulder that was suffering from the effects of this spanking. Alex looked miserable and Walter brought the spanking to an end for both Fox and Alex's sake. "All over now Fox," Walter said rubbing Mulder's back in gentle circles, "Sit up baby, you'll feel better…that's my love. That's it Fox…all forgiven."

Alex ran a washcloth under the faucet and brought and gently wiped Fox's face, "Are you alright Fox?"

Fox was leaning his head against Walter's shoulder as he sat on the older man's lap. He looked at Alex from under tear-laden eyelashes and sniffed, "Yeah…I'm good…feel better."

"Glad to hear it," Alex said and leaned in to kiss Fox's cheek but Fox turned and instead their lips locked. The kiss intensified and would have gone on longer except for Walter clearing his throat.

"Uhm…not to break up this totally hot scene my darlings, but we need to get showered and get dressed for supper."

"You…you two take a shower," Fox said his breath still hitching, "I'll take one while you are having supper…I'm just gonna go to bed."

"Fox it's our last night here," Alex said, "You have to join us…come on."

"I'm really beat Alex…literally and figuratively," Fox said standing up and helping Walter do the same, "Maybe I'll join you for dessert. Okay?"

"Why don't you lay down now Fox and when you are ready you can freshen up and join us. You can take a full shower later or in the morning instead."

"Thanks Walter," Fox said and left the bathroom, his bottom a bright and glowing red.

When Walter and Alex came out of the bathroom ten minutes later it was to find the love of their lives sound asleep, burrowed under the comforter with only his hair showing. They got dressed as quickly and quietly as possible and left the room in the same fashion.

"You sure he's alright. I could make him a tray if you'd like," Rosie said as she put the dessert on the table.

"He's fine Rosie…he just needed to get some sleep, don't worry," Walter said smiling at the older woman, "I'm sure once he smells this cake and coffee he'll be up."

"Did anyone say cake and coffee?" Fox said with a wide grin as he joined the group, "Sorry about missing supper…I…I was just really tiered all of a sudden."

Chris and Cooper shared a knowing glance as Fox carefully took his seat. "Rosie kept a plate hot for you Fox."

"Can I start with the dessert and work my way back?" Fox asked eyeing the huge chocolate cake with wide eyes.

"Sure thing dear," Rosie said and filled a cup of steaming coffee for him.

When they finished dessert Fox said, "Why don't you guys go out to talk and I'll finish up here and join you in a few minutes." The other four men left and Fox began to eat from the plate Rosie had just put in front of him. He hadn't realized how hungry he was until he smelled the wonderful food.

"I want to thank you Mr. Mulder," Rosie said as she refilled his cup.

"Thank me? For what Rosie? And please call me Fox."

"It was about time my boys were brave enough to tell each other how they really felt."

Fox almost choked on a potato he had just put in his mouth, "I…beg your pardon?"

"The boys think my hearing is gone but in truth it is as sharp as ever," Rosie said chuckling at the look of surprise on Mulder's face. "I love those men like they were my own children and I've seen them bottle up their true feelings for so long that I prayed every night that someone would come along and knock some sense it them. I guess God answered my prayers when he brought you and your friends along."

Shaking his head Fox said, "No Rosie…I had nothing to do with it other than realize it before they did and give them a little nudge. Actually I nudged Walter and Alex and they took care of the rest."

"Well no matter how you did it I am thankful," Rosie said. "It won't be as easy for them here as it might be in other places…alternate life styles are not as common here, but they'll do fine 'cause they have each other and they have you, Alex and Walter as well."

"And don't forget the most important thing they have," Fox said smiling, "They have a Mom who loves them unconditionally."

Rosie's eyes filled and she wiped at them impatiently, "You better go join them now Fox. And I would appreciate you not telling them I know anything."

"It might be easier if they did know Rosie," Fox said and stood, "Inside the house might be the only place they can truly express their feelings for each other. If they think you don't know they might not be as free as they should be."

"Very well Fox…but I'll tell them," Rosie said and leaned in to kiss his cheek. "Thank you."

Fox beamed.

Later that night, when everyone had said their good nights, Fox was tossing and turning on his bed. He wasn't sure if it was his still sore backside or the fact that he had slept for an hour earlier that prevented him from falling asleep but since lack of sleep was something he was familiar with he resigned himself to a sleepless night.

He stiffened slightly when he heard the door to his bedroom open but them smiled to himself when he felt the bed dip behind him and a very familiar arm wrap around his waist. "Uhm…I thought we weren't supposed to be doing this?"

"Rosie is fast asleep by now and with her hearing she won't hear a thing," Walter whispered in his ear and then gave it a quick nip, making Fox giggled.

The door opened again and the third member of their family crawled into bed on the other side of Mulder. "Great minds think alike hey Walter?"

"I'd always thought so."

"We have to be up by six thirty," Fox said impatiently wriggling against Walter. "I would prefer less talking and more action."

"And exactly what can of action would you prefer Foxling?" Alex asked amused.

"Well if you don't know by now I am thoroughly disappointed in you my Rat," Fox said grinning and leaned forward to kiss Alex. "Walter seems to know what I want…or at least a part of his anatomy does."

"Okay but we have to be quiet," Walter said, "Even if Rosie is asleep we don't want to wake Chris or Cooper."

"I'll worry about keeping Fox quiet if you want to do the honors Walter," Alex said grinning.

Walter smiled back and slipped his hand down the back of Fox's pajama bottoms and tugged them down past his buttocks. Reaching back to the nightstand he took out the lube he suspected was there…his boys were always ready. He quickly prepped Fox and himself and said, "Okay Alex I'm going in. Alex? Oh you started already…" he added with a chuckle.

Alex had indeed started and was kissing Fox passionately, their tongues warring for position. Alex knew the exact moment when Walter entered their lover because Fox moaned into their kiss. Every time Walter hit Fox's prostate Mulder's eyes would widen and the kiss would deepen. Alex didn't remember ever kissing anyone for such a long time but he wasn't about to complain.

Eventually Walter pulled out of Fox and the younger man sighed in a mixture of contentment and regret. He sighed, smiled and quickly drifted off to sleep.

Walter looked down and couldn't help but smile at the angelic and totally satisfied look on Fox's face. "Is he out for the count?" he asked Alex who was also looking at their lover fondly.

"Yeah…and you guys say I'm the one that falls asleep right after sex."

"Well be better do the same," Walter said snuggling down and pulling Fox closer, "Six thirty comes up awful fast. 'Night Alex."

"Night Bear."

It was a very subdued quintet that headed for the airport the next morning. After saying their good-byes to Rosie they climbed into the truck. Chris drove with Walter in the front passenger seat and Fox in the back with one twin on each side.

"Uhm…now I know how the creamy filling in an Oreo feels," Fox commented after the first twenty minutes of the ride were completed in silence. He felt pretty certain that the silence had more to do with their upcoming departure than from having to leave at such an ungodly hour.

"What?" Walter said turning around to look at his lover.

"Well I'm surrounded by two identical parts…they even sulk the same," Fox said pointing to the two men on either side of him.

"I'm not sulking," Alex and Cooper said simultaneously and then glared at Fox when he burst out laughing.

"Guys we went through this when you first met in D.C. and Coop had to come back," Walter said.

"And I'm sure you've both used the phone before and know about e-mail so you can keep in touch that way too," Chris said looking at his pouting lover in the rear view mirror.

"And I can do you one better," Fox said grinning, "I send the Gunmen a message a couple of days ago. You'll be getting a package in the next few days. It is an upgrade to your computer so you can have a video camera installed. When you get on-line you'll be able to see and hear each other instead of just typing the words. And it is high speed connection so it won't be all choppy and staticky."

"You did that?" Alex said and smiled. He shifted in the seat and snuggled next to Fox, who put his arm around him and pulled him even closer.

"Yeah I did that," Fox said mimicking the adoring tone. He then surprised Cooper by throwing his other arm over the cowboy's shoulder and pulling him close. "I don't like to have Alex upset and he would be hell to live with if he didn't keep in touch."

"Thanks Fox," Alex said punching him gently in the stomach but still grinning like mad.

"You did good Fox," Walter said reaching back and patting the younger man on the knee. "Alex will be much easier to travel with now. I was afraid we were going to have to sedate him to get him on the plane."

This made everyone laugh and Alex stuck out his tongue at Skinner but the grin just could not be wiped off his face.

The rest of the trip was completed with much higher spirits than when it started.

"As soon as the package gets here I'll hook it up. I'll call you when it's set," Cooper said to Alex as they stood by the boarding gate.

"'Kay."

"Now don't go getting all surly on me little brother."

"I'd thought you forgotten that by now," Alex said smirking.

"You should know by now I don't give up easily," Cooper said smiling, "But seriously Alex…I…I just wanted to tell you that I'm happy…very happy to have you…uhm…"

"Me too," Alex said quickly, not wanting the conversation to get mushy. Former assassins do not do mush well…nope…they do not. "I'm sure that Fox had the Gunmen already install the camera and stuff at our place. Once he gets an idea in his head he's like a terrier with a rat."

Cooper's eyes flickered in surprise at Alex's wry humor, "I guess it's a good thing he is named Fox then uh?"

"You guys talking about me behind my back," Fox said as he joined them.

Two identical grins and shining sets of green mischievous eyes turned to face him. "You are such an interesting subject we couldn't help ourselves," Alex said and took Fox's hand in his.

Trying not to act surprised by the open sign of affection Fox said, "We'll be boarding in a few minutes and I just wanted to make sure we took the right twin with us."

"You are so funny Fox," Coop said smiling, "We don't look that much alike. I am much better looking."

"You wish," Alex said.

"Are you guys acting like brothers again?" Chris asked as he and Walter joined their lovers.

At that exact moment the announcement for the plane's departure was heard and the mood became suddenly somber again.

"Okay…let's not drag this out," Walter said. "Chris it was a real pleasure meeting you. It goes without saying that you are always welcome to our house…with or without Cooper."

"But better with Cooper," Chris said smiling and taking the offered hand to shake. "I want to thank all three of you for opening my…our eyes. You've given me an incredible gift."

"Just make sure you take care of it or there be hell to pay," Alex said and shook Chris' hand.

Chris felt Alex's hand grip his firmly and had no doubt that the words, although said lightly, held a promise. Not that he would ever dream of hurting Cooper, but he certainly didn't want to deal with an angry Alex Krycek if he did.

Finally it came time to board the plane. As the last time they had said their good-byes in D.C. Fox and Walter stepped aside, taking Chris with them to allow the brothers a little privacy.

"Call me when you get in…no matter the time," Cooper said, "I want to make sure you arrived okay."

"We will."

"Alex…what I was trying to say before. I am glad you came. I know we both had doubts about this relationship…but it works. I'm glad to have you in my life."

'No mush…no mush…no mush,' was all Alex kept thinking. 'If I open my mouth and mush comes out I will run out onto the runway and get run over. "Me too," he finally said and patted himself on the back for his stoic delivery…of two whole words. Clearing his throat he tried again, "I mean…I am really glad that you weren't put off by…all the crap in my life."

"None of us have had perfect lives Alex. You did what you had to do. I admire that. I admire you."

"Oh shit," Alex said and ducked his head, "Now I'll have to kill myself."

"What? Why?"

"I promised myself not to get all mushy and you are making it very hard."

"Well I won't tell anybody," Cooper said smiling.

Looking at his twin from behind his long lashes Alex said, "If you do…remember I know where you live. You can run but you can't hide."

"Yes sir!" Cooper said and saw Fox and Walter move towards the boarding door. "You better get going or Fox and Walter will not be happy with me." He pulled Alex into an awkward hug but was happy to feel the other man relax into it and wrap his arm to return the hug.

"Talk to you soon," Alex said as the pulled apart and he ran to join his lovers. With one last glance and a quick wave he was gone.