"Secretary's Day"

byPaula Morrell plmorrell [AT] gmail . com

THIS STORY IS NOT TO BE REDISTRIBUTED

WITHOUT THE AUTHOR'S EXPRESS WRITTEN CONSENT.

Tessa Nickole Anderson walked slowly through the FBI building in DC. She had worked for the Bureau for two years now, though not as a field agent. She would have to attend the FBI Academy before that would happen. And it was coming up on her list of things to do. Walking down the halls, she felt the stares. At first, she thought there was something wrong her skirt suit. So, she ducked into a bathroom to check. Her red jacket and skirt seemed fine, as well as her white blouse. She brushed through her sandy blonde, shoulder length hair. Glancing in the mirror, she noticed her eyes were more red than their normal brown. "Great. I knew I should've stayed home last night."

Tessa reached into her purse for some eyes drops. She had to make a good impression. She wasn't just going to work for some department head. She would be filling in for the Assistant Director's regular secretary, who was on a leave of absence. If she made a good impression on him, she was sure she'd be guaranteed work in what ever section she wanted. There was no way she wanted to get stuck in the building's basement chasing UFOs and ghosts with Spooky and his partner.

She double checked her suit and looked at her eyes. Everything seemed fine now. So, she figured the stares were because she looked all of 18 when she really was 28. At times, that was a blessing and other times, it was a royal pain in the ass.

She glanced at her watch, which read 7:45, and continued on her way. When she arrived at the office, no one was there. She put her purse in the desk and sat down. She had spoken to the A.D.'s secretary at length several times and was told exactly what she would need to do and where things were. Her duties would be basic; field phone calls, set appointments, take notes and memos, type correspondence, as well as her favorite chore: make coffee. And coffee making seemed like a good place to start.

After getting the coffee brewing, Tessa returned to her desk. She scanned through Skinner's appointment book. He had four appointments scheduled and the files he need for each were sitting on the corner of the desk. There were also half a dozen pieces of correspondence that had to be typed and a stack of papers to file. Tessa chuckled. The regulars always save the temps as much filing as possible so they'll always be busy. Well, Tessa said to herself, that can wait until later.

She picked up the first sheet of notes and tried to make sense out of the chicken scratch that was called shorthand. She was so engrossed in them, that she didn't hear the person approach her desk. It wasn't until she heard a throat being cleared that she looked up. In front of her stood a man in a grey suit, white and grey striped shirt, and grey tie. The only hair he had was on the sides and back of his head. His metal framed glasses lightened his hazel eyes.

Tessa's heart skipped a beat twice. Once because it was Assistant Director Walter S. Skinner and once because she thought that the ‘S' in his name had to stand for ‘Sexy'. Tessa swallowed hard, gathering her composure. "Sir, I'm sorry, I didn't see you walk up."

He nodded. "It's okay. At least you're doing work. Most temps just like to sit around and look busy doing nothing."

Tessa smiled to herself. So far so good. "Can I get you a cup of coffee? Black with one sugar, right?"

"Yes, that would be fine, Ms...."

"Tessa, Tessa Anderson. Call me whatever you like."

"Fine, Tessa. I'll be in my office."

Tessa fixed his coffee and was about to enter his office, but stopped short. "Better bring him the files for his first meeting." She scooped up a stack of files and went into Skinner's office.

By now, Skinner had stripped off his jacket and had it hanging from the back of his chair. He sat at his desk, reviewing his appointment book. He glanced up as Tessa entered.

Tessa noticed he looked tired but, decided not to say anything. She set his coffee on the coaster and laid the files in front of him. "These are the folders you'll need for your meeting with Agents Parnell and Thomas."

Skinner looked rather surprised. "Thank you. I was just going to call you for them."

Tessa smiled as sweetly and provocatively as she could. "You're welcome."

Skinner watched her leave. Was it his imagination or was she flirting with him? He shook the thoughts from his head and set about reviewing the files.

Tessa returned to her desk and switched on the computer. She selected the word processing program and started transposing the shorthand. She was almost done when he intercom buzzed causing her to jump. She laughed at herself and picked up the phone. "Yes sir?"

"Tessa, would you please bring me Agent Parnell's file."

Tessa thought she had. Glancing at the stack of folders, she saw it still sitting on top. "Yes sir....I'll bring it right in." Silently scolding herself, she snatched the file up and took it in to Skinner. "I'm sorry sir. I thought I had brought it in with the others."

Skinner just nodded.

Tessa didn't know if he was frustrated with her or if he was just having a bad morning. She looked down at his empty cup. "More coffee, sir?"

He glanced into the cup, not realizing he had drank it all. "Yes, sure." He watched her leave again. It took several seconds for the thoughts running through his mind to register. "Gees," he told himself, "Cut it out." He merely grunted a thank you when Tessa returned with the coffee.

Tessa left his office and plopped into her chair, sighing. "I wonder what else I can do wrong today," she muttered. "I knew I should have check those files before I brought them in."

The rest of the day was uneventful. Skinner's appointments came and went and Tessa made sure to have all the files ready each time. It was a quarter to seven when she started to clean up. Although she got off at five, she stayed late to make up for the mistake with the files. She was straightening the desk when she saw Skinner come out of his office.

He took a step back in surprise at seeing her. "Why are you still working?"

"I....I just wanted to tie up a few loose ends before I left."

"Ahhh."

He had taken two steps when Tessa finally got up enough courage to ask, "Sir, did I do anything wrong today, besides the file thing?"

"No. No, you did just fine. Why?"

"You seemed a little, well, upset with me."

Skinner shook his head. "It wasn't you. Just a bad day, I guess." He wanted to ask her something. And before reason got the best for him, the words tumbled from his mouth. "Would you like to go to dinner and have a few drinks?"

Tessa seemed just as shocked as Skinner when she heard the words. She wanted to get on his good side, but she had no idea this would happen. She'd be a fool not to take advantage of it. "Sure, that'd be great." She shut down the computer, turned off the lights, and followed Walter ‘S for sexy' Skinner to his car.

Along the way, Skinner tried to rationalize what he'd just done. He was lucky if this girl was of legal age and he was old enough to be her father. She didn't seem to mind it. Plus, he'd already opened his mouth and couldn't, or maybe didn't want to, back out now.

They went to a local restaurant, bar, and lounge on the west side of the river. After a brief discussion, they decided to sit in the restaurant. The waitress led them to a quiet, back corner booth. The booth was lit up by a small candle next to the wall and a dim light hanging over head. She set the menus down and asked what they wanted to drink. Skinner ordered a beer and Tessa asked for a Pina Colada. The waitress said she would return in a few moments with the drinks and take their order.

Skinner and Tessa decided quickly on what to eat and set down the menus. Skinner cleared his throat, trying to calm his nerves. "The Bureau didn't give me much of a background on you."

Tessa grinned. "I wonder if that's good or bad." She shrugged. "Well, let's see....I graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in criminal psychology and a minor in business. I've been working as a temp for the Bureau for almost two years."

Skinner did a quick calculation in his head. If she graduated high school at 18, spent 5 years in college, and 2 years at the Bureau, that would make her 24 or 25. He felt a little better.

"Before I started with the Bureau, I worked with a criminal psychologist for the state of Virginia for three years."

That makes her somewhere between 27 and 29, Skinner thought, feeling less and less guilty. "Why quit practicing psychology to work as a secretary for the Bureau?"

"I wanted to work somewhere where I cold make a name for myself and the Bureau seemed like a good place. I needed to get my foot in the door and the secretary position came up..."

"And you grabbed it."

"Yeah, I've been known to grab things I want," she said with a smirk. "I've had a few personal set backs that kept me from attending the Academy. But, if all goes well, I'll enroll in about 4 to 6 weeks."

Skinner nodded as the waitress returned with their drinks. He ordered a steak, medium rare, a baked potato, and mixed vegetable. Tessa asked for the baked chicken breast, rice, and salad. There was a moment of awkward silence as the waitress picked up the menus and left.

"So," Tessa said licking the whipped cream from the drink off her lips, "Why did you have a bad day?"

Skinner frowned a bit. "I really don't know. I guess I woke up in a bad mood."

"Didn't have a good night's sleep?"

He shook his head. "No, I sure didn't."

"Well," Tessa leaned forward on her elbows, looking deep into his eyes, "You know what they say you should do if you want a good night's sleep, don't you?"

Skinner took the bait. "No what?"

Tessa grinned. "I guess I'll have to show you sometime."

The waitress brought out their dinners. As they ate, they chatted idly about several of the agent teams Skinner oversaw. Tessa's favorite was the X-Files team, Mulder and Scully. She liked to hear what others thought of the strange duo. It gave her an idea of whether befriending them, or more likely him, would benefit her career or not. Just as long as she didn't get stuck working with them. Tessa listened to Skinner, but concentrated more on him than what he was saying. She didn't understand what was attracting her to him. She'd certainly done this with better looking men and had less of a hormonal response. She done it with much worse, too, but the end justified the means at the time. By the end of dinner, Tessa found herself more excited than she had planned on.

On the way out, Skinner paid for the meal and picked up a couple of mints, giving one to Tessa. The night air was cold and crisp, causing Tessa to shiver. She had left her overcoat in the car. Skinner removed his trenchcoat and placed it over her shoulders.

"Ahhh....chivalry isn't dead yet." Tessa laughed.

"Would you like to go for a walk? The river's just a few blocks away."

"That sounds nice." Tessa pushed her arms through the sleeves of the trenchcoat. Tucking one arm through Skinner's, she walked with him.

Skinner tried to remain calm, but his heart pounded and his blood raced. Whenever she touched him, he felt himself grow harder and harder. He was definitely glad his pants were loose fitting. This was very unlike him. He always had control of himself and never mixed business with pleasure. Maybe, just maybe, she was the one.

They walked along the bank of the river until they came to a metal railing. Tessa stopped and leaned over it, staring at the moon's refection in the water. Skinner stood next to her.

"So," Tessa asked with her seductive smile, "Can I call you Walter or should I still call you sir?"

"Call me what ever you like." He smiled back, gazing at the stars.

Tessa reached over and took his hand. "Your hands are cold... I'll just have to do something about that." She opened the trenchcoat and pulled Skinner towards her. She tucked his arms behind her, under the coat, and wrapped it around him. "Better?"

Skinner nodded, trying to control the growing excitement.

"Good." Tessa stood on her tiptoes and kissed him, nibbling and sucking on his lower lip. When she felt him shudder, she smiled and thought to herself, "Time to put another notch on the bedpost."

Skinner pulled away, licking the taste of Tessa off his lips. He wanted to say that this was a bad idea, that they had to work together and this could make things difficult. But, he didn't. "It's getting late. I'd better get you back to your car."

"Actually," Tessa said, closing the coat around her, "You can take me back to my apartment. My car's in the shop. I took a cab this morning."

As they turned and headed for the car, Skinner put his arm around her, "Where do you live?"

"Ballston Commons, in Alexandria."

"I know where they're at. Nice place."

"I like it there, quiet and safe." She looked over at Skinner. "You're thinking that this wasn't and isn't a good idea, right?"

"No, actually, I wasn't." So it was a small lie. "I had a nice time."

"Good, then we can do it again."

They reached the car and headed towards Tessa's apartment.

They drove in silence, Skinner still trying to rationalize not only his actions but his emotional and hormonal response as well and Tessa planning her next move.

As the car approached the complex, Tessa pointed to the front door. "You can drop me off right there." When the car stopped, she stretched across the front seat to kissed Skinner. This time he kissed her back, their tongues toying with each other. Tessa broke off the kiss and smiled. "My place for dinner after work tomorrow?"

"I'd like that very much."

"Good. I'll see you in the morning." Tessa climbed out of the car and watched him leave. The hook was set, now all she had to do was reel him in.

The next day, Tessa arrived at work and found Skinner already there, making coffee. "Good morning. You're here early."

Skinner looked over his shoulder and smiled. "I'm in a better mood this morning, too."

Tessa grinned, knowing that he really meant he had a good time last night and was looking forward to tonight. "Me, too."

"I need you to schedule an appointment for me with Agents Mulder and Scully to review their field report. I'd like to do it this morning."

"I'll take care of it." She waited for Skinner to go into his office before picking up the phone.

She dialed their office, expecting to get their voice mail.

"Mulder here," the voice answered.

"Ahhh, Agent Mulder, you are in."

"Funny, most people think I'm out."

Tessa smiled. She liked his sense of humor. "This is Assistant Director Skinner's secretary..."

"Well, hi Assistant Director Skinner's secretary, what can I do for you?"

"Well, for starters, you can call me Tessa."

"Okay, Tessa it is. What else?"

"Mr. Skinner would like to see you and Agent Scully this morning to review your field report."

"Hmmm, unfortunately, Agent Scully is out sick today."

"Let me find out if he wants to talk just to you, then. Can you hold for a moment?"

"Sure, what would you like me to hold?"

Tessa laughed. "Use your imagination." She tapped the hold button, then rang Skinner's office.

"Yes?"

"Sir, Agent Scully is out sick, do you want to speak to Agent Mulder alone?"

"Yes, that'll be fine."

Tessa switched lines. "So, Agent Mulder, what did you decide to hold?"

This time it was Mulder who laughed. "Use your imagination."

Tessa debated on a comeback. "I think I'll just leave that one alone. Are you available this morning?"

"For a date?"

"Only if you want to take out Mr. Skinner. I don't get off work until later."

"What time?"

Now Tessa was slightly confused. She wasn't sure if he was referring to her or Skinner. "Mr. Skinner is available at 10:30 to see you."

"Darn, I was hoping for a date with you."

"Well, then how about 6:30 tomorrow night?"

"I'll check my calendar and let you know when I come up to see Skinner."

"Sounds good. Bye." She hung up and leaned back in the chair. Smiling, she said to herself, "When I'm good, I'm good. But, when I'm bad, I'm even better."

Agent Mulder arrived fifteen minutes early for his meeting, which as no surprise to Tessa. "So, can you squeeze me into your schedule?" She closed the file cabinet drawer.

"I juggled a few things around," Mulder replied, looking her over. Nice legs, short skirt, not bad at all.

"Good. Where should we go?"

"There's a little Chinese place I know in Alexandria that's really good."

"That works for me, I like Chinese." She sat down and scribbled her address and phone number a sheet of paper. "For your little black book." She grinned, handing him the paper. "Pick me up at 6:30 tomorrow?"

"No problem." He folded the paper and put it in his jacket pocket.

The intercom buzzed. Tessa hit the speakerphone button. "Yes, sir?"

"I'm ready for Agent Mulder."

"I'll send him in." She hung up and walked to the door. "Have fun." She opened it, motioned for him to enter, and shut the door behind him. She, then returned to her desk to type the day's letters.

About an hour later, Mulder emerged from Skinner's office.

Tessa looked him up and down. "Turn around."

Mulder did as he was told with a quizzical look. "What?"

"I was just seeing if there was anything left."

Mulder nodded, grinning slightly. "Yes, that was quite an ass-chewing. Well, I must go. Have to go down to Quantico. But," He walked up next to Tessa. Leaning down, he whispered in her ear, "I'll be back for tomorrow night, though." He kissed her cheek and left.

Tessa scarcely saw Skinner for the remainder of the day, only bring in to him an occasionally needed file. Shortly after five, he came out of the office. He smiled as he saw Tessa bent over.

Tessa straightened when she saw him out of the corner of her eye. "Hi. Ready for dinner?"

"I've been ready all day. Need a ride?"

"Yep, car won't be ready until Saturday."

Tessa unlocked the door to her apartment and stepped inside. "Come on in."

Skinner stepped in. The apartment was large for a one bedroom. The front door led into the living room. Off to the left was the dining area and kitchen, to the right was the hall to the bedroom.

Tessa took Skinner's trenchcoat and placed it, with hers, in the coat closet to the right of the door.

Skinner walked to the couch in the center of the living room facing the TV and hi-fi stereo system. Looking around at the various landscapes on the walls, he said, "Very nice."

"Make yourself comfy. I'll put the chicken parmesan in the oven to cook." She walked in the kitchen and turned on the oven. She had prepared everything the night before so all she would have to do is cook it, leaving more time for whatever might come along. She took the chicken from the refrigerator and set it on the stove. She turned around to throw away the aluminum foil that had covered the chicken and jumped when she saw Skinner behind her.

"Sorry, didn't mean to startle you."

"That's okay." She put the chicken in the oven and set the timer. "Would you like something to drink? I've got some nice white wine."

"That sounds good."

Tessa went into the refrigerator and pulled out the wine. She took out a set of wine glasses from above the sink. "Why don't we have a seat in the living room."

Skinner followed her to the couch and sat next to her. He took the glass of wine she handed him and held it up. "Cheers." He took a sip and set the glass on the coffee table. "You've got a very nice place here."

"Thank you. I thought about moving into a two bedroom so I could have an office, but decided it was too much trouble and I'd just have another room to clean." She removed her shoes and tucked her feet under her, propping her elbow up on the back of the couch.

Skinner unbuttoned his jacket and leaned forward to pull it off.

It was just the cue Tessa was waiting for. "Here, let me help."

She pulled off his jacket, draping it over the couch behind her. She leaned over to him and took off his tie and unbuttoned his shirt halfway. Tugging on his shirt, she pulled him into her and nibbled on his earlobe.

A deep sigh deflated his chest. His pulse raced in excitement. The sound of Tessa breathing in his ear made him throb. As she pulled back slightly, he turned, his lips meeting hers. He pressed against her, exploring the back of her mouth with his tongue. He brought his hand up between them and toyed with her nipple.

Tessa moaned softly, shivers running up and down her spine.

She moved carefully so as not to interrupt the kiss, and straddled his lap. Reaching down, she unbuckled his belt and unzipped his pants. She felt Skinner's hand move down her blouse and leg to mid-thigh, just below her skirt. She licked his upper lip as she pulled away, running her hand down his arm to the cuff of his shirt. She noticed he had very nicely muscled arm for a man his age, which excited her more. She undid his cuffs and pulled off his shirt.

Skinner took several deep breaths. He didn't want to seem overly anxious about this, but he was ready. He couldn't remember the last time he'd want someone so badly that it almost hurt. The goose bumps rose as Tessa licked and sucked on his nipples and chest. He ran his hand up the back of her leg and unbuttoned her skirt with a flick of his thumb. He gently grasped her around her waist to stand her up as he did. Tessa's skirt dropped to the ground revealing her white lace garter and bikini underwear. As she pulled off her blouse, Skinner reached behind her and pulled her against him, opening her mouth with his tongue.

Tessa pushed Skinner's pants off his hips and grasped his hard cock through the grey boxers. She stepped out of her skirt and pushed back the coffee table with her foot. While Skinner unhooked her bra and garter, she reached down his boxers and gently stroked him.

A groan rumbled in Skinner's throat. He reached down, between Tessa's legs. Moving her underwear aside, he explored her with his finger. She was just as ready and wanting as him.

Tessa broke away slowly, then kissed Skinner's chin, neck, and chest, making her way down. When she got to the boxers, she grabbed the legs and pulled them down. Skinner's rock hard cock sprang to attention. Tessa licked her finger and ran it along the underside, from the base to the head. She lifted it up to her lips and softly kissed the tip.

Skinner closed his eyes as he felt Tessa take him into her mouth. He shuddered as she slowly drew backwards, setting up the rhythmic pace of bringing him entirely into her mouth then pulling back to occasionally lick and suck on the very tip. He held on to her shoulders to keep from falling over as the wave of ecstasy grew. Seconds before he was going to explode in her mouth, she stopped.

Tessa stood and kissed his lips. She knew how close he had been to letting it go. "You didn't think I'd let you get off that easy, did you?" She sat on the couch, one leg across the cushions, the other hanging down to the floor.

Skinner didn't wait for an invitation. He knelt down on the floor. He pulled her underwear off, tossing them aside. He spread her lips open to take his first taste. She was sweet and very, very wet.

Tessa watched. The man had a talented tongue. Every time it touched her, it sent electric tingles through her body. She grabbed the sides of the couch, her back arching, as Skinner delved deep into her. She leaned her head back and moaned when he found her clit. Finally, not able to stand the toying anymore, she pulled him up. She kissed him. Tasting herself on him made her even more excited. She spread he legs wide and grabbed his ass, pushing him inside.

Skinner shoved deeply in her, surprised at how tight she was. He was even more surprised when she tightened around him. He let out a deep sigh. He was ready to come. He moved in and out slowly but, she urged him faster and harder. He groaned, fighting the oncoming rush of ecstasy.

Tessa decided she had teased enough. She whispered in his ear, "Come..."

Skinner thrusted hard and deep twice before exploding.

"Ohhh....god." He kissed her. "Thank you."

Tessa smiled. "You're welcome." She couldn't remember the last time someone thanked her for that. It almost made her change her mind about using him. Almost, but not quite.

Skinner left Tessa's apartment shortly after dinner, wondering what the hell he had just done. He knew nothing about her really, and what he did know, didn't make sense. To make matters worse, he felt he could fall head over heals for her anytime. That, he did not like. At least he'd be out of the office tomorrow and maybe could sort himself out.

Tessa finished loading the dishwasher and turned it on. She shut off the kitchen lights and laid down on the couch. And she waited. Waited for sleep to overtake her and the nightmares to follow. The night mares were always about the same thing, that fateful night some 13 years ago. Tessa was 15 then and had ran away from home, tired of the strict rules laid down her Marine officer father and her Southern Baptist mother. She made her way down the dark and winding road. Just her, the moonlight, and Siobhan, her faithful Irish Setter. Something about that night made the wood flanked road even spookier than before. Siobhan kept running off into the woods which made Tessa even more nervous. Then a car came down the normally deserted road and stopped just past her. Tessa froze and whistled for her dog. The doors to the car opened and four men got out. It was dark and Tessa couldn't make anything else out other than that they were men. They started to approach so she whistled again for Siobhan. The dog trotted out of the woods and growled at the men. They laughed at the dog. Tessa saw a flash of light and heard a yelp as the bullet struck the dog. She turned and ran as fast as she could. But they overtook her . They bound and gagged her. They took her into the woods and raped her repeatedly. She was close to unconsciousness when they decided they had done enough and unbound her and left her in the woods.

Tessa jolted upright on the couch. She was trembling and sweating. Her face was wet with tears. She laid back down and picked up a pillow, clutching it to her chest. It smells like Walter, she thought. Slowly she drifted off to sleep again.

The next morning Tessa arrived at the office feeling a little tired and tense. As she walked up to her desk she saw a red rose. She picked it up and sniffed it. "Mmmm.....it smells good." An small envelope was under the flower. So, she picked it up and opened it. Inside was a card that read: "Looking forward to tonight. See you at 6:30. Mulder".

Tessa chuckled. The guy hardly seemed like the romantic type. She heard someone approach and looked up.

A female agent several inches shorter than herself and with red hair smiled. "Do you have an admirer?"

"Yeah, I guess so." Tessa smiled back. "You must be Agent Scully."

"Yes. Yes, I am." As Tessa set the flower and card back on the desk, Scully noticed the familiar handwriting.

"What can I do for you?"

Scully shook off her thoughts. "Is Assistant Director Skinner in?"

"No, I'm afraid he's gone for the day."

"Oh." Scully sneezed several times.

"Bless you." Tessa handed her a couple of tissues. "You really should go back to bed and take care of that cold."

"Well, with Mulder and Skinner gone, I just may do that. Thanks."

Tessa smiled. "Take two aspirin and call me in the morning."

Scully laughed as she headed out the door. "Okay, doctor, I'll

do that."

Tessa sat down after Scully left. She shook her head, trying to figure out why Mulder and Scully hadn't gotten together. "Well, heck, for all I know they have," she said to herself.

The day went by slowly. There was nothing much to do except field the phone calls for Skinner. By five o'clock, she had a stack of twenty messages for him. So, she put them on his desk and headed for home. When she got there, she showered and changed into a pair of jeans and a red blouse. By the time she was done it was 6:15. About two minutes later, the doorbell rang. She looked out the peephole. It was Mulder and boy, did he look different. She opened the door and smiled. "You're here early."

Mulder grinned. "I just could wait any longer."

"Come in." She stepped back and watched as he entered. He's got a nice ass in those jeans, she thought. And he fills out the front very nice too.

Mulder approached the couch and saw the rose in a bud vase on the coffee table. "I see you go the flower."

"Yes," she said shutting the door. "It was very sweet." She walked up to him and kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Thank you."

Mulder stuffed his hands in the pockets of his leather bomber jacket as he felt himself blush. Scully told him he needed to date more and now he knew why. One peck on the cheek and he felt himself getting hard.

"I'll be ready in a second." Tessa went to her room to get her trenchcoat and returned to the living room. "All set."

It took about fifteen minutes to get to the restaurant and get seated. They ordered the cashew chicken, vegetable chow mien, shrimp curry, won ton soup, and steamed rice along with some wine.

"I sure hope you're hungry." Mulder grinned.

"Yeah, but I've gotta save room for dessert." She flashed one of her seductive smiles.

Mulder fought to keep from letting out a deep, anxious sigh. The last person he'd been with was the Kristen chick in L.A. and that was awhile ago and probably a mistake.

"I understand you did your senior thesis on serial killers and the occult."

"Uh huh. What about you?"

"Just rapists and pedophiles."

"Just? Seems like a strange topic. Why that?" Mulder munched on the crisp noodles the waitress had set in front of him.

Tessa reached across the table for some. "It was just a topic I found interesting and had a good understanding of. Plus I had a job offer to work with a state psychologist who counseled those types of criminals."

Mulder nodded. "Tough job for someone fresh out of college."

"I was tough. I did it for three years before a spot opened up with the Bureau I could grab. I still have to attend the Academy."

The waitress returned with their meal. As they ate, Tessa inquired as to Mulder's current assignment, which dealt with some mysterious killings. When they finished eating and the meal was paid for, they walked down the street to a nearby park.

"I've always gotta go for a walk after eating big meals. Helps with digestion." Tessa steered Mulder down the sidewalk.

"Is that what it helps with?" he smirked.

Tessa stopped in the middle of the sidewalk and turned to face Mulder. Light from a nearby light threw shadows across his face, making him look even more inviting to her. "They can do more than that." She stepped up to him. Standing on her tiptoes, she reached behind his head and pulled his ear down to her mouth. "If you want them to." She nibbled gently on his earlobe.

Mulder turned his head slightly and whispered back, "I want them to." He kissed along her neck, up to her jaw line. "Let's go to my place for dessert."

***

Mulder opened the door, allowing Tessa to enter. He followed her in and locked the door behind her.

Tessa stripped off her trench and tossed it onto a nearby chair.

She motioned with her finger for Mulder to come closer.

Mulder obliged, swallowing hard as she reached out and pulled him towards her. He let her unzip his jacket and pulled it off. The longing he felt in his pants was almost unbearable.

Tessa bent her leg and rubbed along the inside of Mulder's thigh. "Are you ready for dessert, Fox Mulder?"

All Mulder could manage was a nod as she took his hand and led him to the couch.

Tessa pulled off her shoes as Mulder sat on the couch doing the same. She hardly let him get his shoes off before she gently pushed him back. She couldn't help but notice the bulge in his jeans. "Oooh, a little excited are we?"

"Yeah, more than a little."

"So, I see. I'll just have to give you a little more breathing room." She tugged at the top of his button-fly jeans, pulling them open with ease. She was about to reach in and free him from the confinement of his jeans, when Mulder reached down and stopped her.

He shook his head. "Not so fast." He patted the couch next to him and eased her onto her back, straddling her. He unbuttoned her blouse and pushed it to the sides. He licked his finger and ran it down the middle of her stomach from the bottom of her red lace bra to the top of her jeans.

Tessa tightened, trying to stop the tickling sensations.

"Mmm...ticklish, I like that." He bent down and kissed her stomach and unhooked her bra. He nuzzled his face in between her warm soft breasts. She smelled so sweet. He licked her. And she tasted sweet, too. He kissed round the bottom of her breast, then up the side to her already erect nipple. He took it between his teeth, gently nibbling and sucking on it.

Tessa trembled slightly. He was good, he was very good. She felt the familiar tingling sensation between her legs grow as Mulder's hand went down to remove her jeans. She helped him pull them off then took off his and freed his very large and excited cock. As she eased herself back down on the couch, she wrapped her legs around him and pulled him closer. She had never seen anyone as big as him and she wanted him and wanted him now.

"Oooh," Mulder whispered in her ear. "Aren't we a wee bit excited?"

She smiled, pulling his head back to kiss him. She allowed his tongue to explore every inch of her mouth before she returned the kiss.

Mulder pulled away and slid off the couch and knelt on the floor. He reached up and turned her toward the edge of the couch. He ran each hand down the inside of her soft silky thighs and pressed them apart.

Tessa jumped slightly at the touch of his thumbs on the outside of her lips and moaned as he parted them and felt his tongue beginning explore.

Mulder gently stroked her outer lips then went deep into her, savoring her taste. His fingers stroked the upper part of her lips as his tongue played inside. He brought his tongue out, licking her clit along the way. His fingers probed her inside as he watched her squirm.

Tessa reached down running her fingers through his hair. "Fox..." she said softly. She felt him look up. She took his face in her hands and pulled him up on her. She felt his penis rub against her. She pushed herself towards him.

Mulder took the cue and gently slide himself inside. He moaned as the warmth and wetness surrounded him. He stroked slowly, deliberately. He was ready to explode.

Tessa pulled herself up slightly, kissing his throat. "Faster," she whispered.

Mulder complied. He moved faster and harder, pushing himself all the way in and pulling almost all the way out. He strained against the oncoming rush.

They moved together, their bodies wet, sweaty bodies slapping together. They groaned and sighed almost in unison as they came.

Mulder rested his face against her neck, trying to catch his breath. He shuddered and twitched as Tessa kissed and nibbled on his ear.

She rested there with him for a moment, enjoying the warmth and touch of his body. Finally, she said, "I think I should go get cleaned up."

Mulder kissed her and got up.

Tessa gathered her clothing and went into the bathroom.

Mulder watched as her naked body moved through his apartment. It was a view worth watching and remembering. A knock on the front door brought him out of his thoughts.

As Tessa walked back to the bathroom, she had a sudden regret at doing what she did. The whole time she was with Mulder all she could think about was someone else, someone she found herself caring for more than she had planned.

Mulder glanced at the front door. "Just a minute..." He walked to the couch and pulled on his jeans.

Tessa cleaned up and got dressed as she heard the front door open. She looked in the mirror. "I sure could use a brush," she said quietly, "Now if I were Mulder where would I hide a brush..." She heard the voices outside but couldn't make out who the second party was. So she figured she'd go out and ask about a brush and satisfy her curiosity at the same time. She walked out of the bathroom buttoning her blouse and ask "Fox, dear, where do you keep your brush?" As Mulder turned to one side to answer her, she saw Skinner standing in the doorway.

"Third drawer from the bottom."

Skinner took a step forward. He wasn't sure if he should say anything. He wondered now if this had anything to do with what was in the official psychological profile and reprimands that he had ordered to view from her career file.

Tessa swallowed hard. Her heart dropped. She knew from the look on Skinner's face he was fighting back the urge to comment. She hoped he wouldn't say anything. So, she turned and started back for the bathroom. But, luck was not on her side today.

"Tessa," Skinner said stepping past Mulder, "You wanna tell me just what in the hell is going on here?"

Tessa looked from Skinner to Mulder and realized that Mulder was beginning to understand that something was going on. "What do you mean?"

"You know damn well what I mean! Is this something you make a habit out of doing?!"

"I don't understand why you're so upset. What happened last night between us happened. I made no commitment to you by doing it. And it's not like I forced you to make that decision. You and Fox made it on your own."

Mulder looked from Tessa to Skinner. He almost couldn't believe what he was hearing. They had slept with the same woman. If she hadn't been so coy about the whole thing, he might have found it amusing. "And who else in the Bureau have you slept with?" Mulder walked away from the door towards Tessa.

"Good question, Mulder." Skinner interjected. He squared his jaw and scowled.

"What difference does it make? If both of you can honestly say you didn't enjoy yourselves, then I'll tell you." She waited a moment, but neither man said a word, they just shifted uncomfortably in their stances. "That's what I thought."

"Why didn't you say anything to me about last night?" Mulder picked up his shirt and put it on.

"You didn't ask. If you would have asked, I would have told you. I don't just volunteer information."

Skinner walked up to Tessa and stood inches from her face. "Oh? So then you won't mind telling me what the reprimands in your career file are for? And what your psychological profile says?"

"The psychological report is classified, how'd you find out about it?"

"I have my ways."

"I don't see why I need to. You've no doubt already ordered them to review and they have nothing to do with what's going on."

"On the contrary," he said walking slowly behind her. "I think they do. Otherwise you wouldn't be so reluctant to tell."

Tessa sighed and stared at the floor. She could smell Skinner's cologne as he walked around her and it was getting her excited. Why do guys have to be such jerks about these things, she thought. She was about to speak when a voice called from outside Mulder's door.

"Mulder? Mulder is everything......" Scully stepped into the apartment and stop when she saw Skinner and Tessa. "Maybe I should come back later."

"No...Scully, stay." Mulder motioned for her to come in. "Have a seat."

"What's going on?"

"It appears our little Miss Tessa is an X-File. She seems to have this mysterious desire to make conquests out of the men she meets."

"Conquests?" At first Scully didn't understand when Mulder meant. Then, as she glanced around the room, she caught on. "You slept with both of them?"

Tessa smirked. "So what if I did?"

"How could you do that?"

"Well, maybe if you'd satisfy your boyfriend over there," Tessa motioned to Mulder, "He wouldn't have been so easy."

"Excuse me?!?!" Scully walked up to Tessa and gave her a stern, questioning look. "First off Mulder is not my boyfriend. And secondly if he did, it's because you put on one hell of an act and he trusted you."

"I think the only reason you're so upset is because I got to them both before you did."

Scully gritted her teeth and did something she'd never done before. She hauled off and punched Tessa square in the jaw.

Tessa stumbled backwards and fell on her ass. That wasn't was she was expecting Scully to do.

"Nice right hook there, Scully." Mulder sneered.

Tessa sat on the floor rubbing her jaw. She thought about fighting back, but three against one was not odds she liked. Then something else happened she did expect.

Skinner stepped in between her and Scully. "Look, this isn't going to get us anywhere."

"Yeah, but it sure made me feel better," Scully said as she shook the pain from her hand.

"I could file a complaint against you, Agent Scully." Tessa climbed up off the floor.

"And where would that get you?" Skinner asked.

"Probably nowhere, but it'd sure make me feel better." Tessa smirked. She made her way to the couch and sat down. She looked from Mulder to Skinner. For the first time in she could remember, she was actually sorry she did what she did. It wasn't so much the look on Mulder's face, but the look on Skinner's.

Mulder tossed Tessa her belongings. "Thanks." He motioned towards the door.

Tessa rose and without a word, walked out the door.

Skinner and Mulder stood in silence for several moments, neither one sure of what to say. Finally, Skinner spoke up. "I'll see you both tomorrow." And with that, he left. He could hear Scully practically yelling at Mulder as he walked away. He couldn't understand what she was saying and he didn't really care. All he cared about was Tessa. He didn't know why. After what happened he shouldn't give a damn, but he did. He stepped out of Mulder's apartment building and saw Tessa standing near the curb putting on her trenchcoat. He almost offered her a ride home. But that wouldn't be a good idea. He needed to think and so did she. And that wouldn't happen if they were together.

The next morning Tessa walked slowly into the office. "I should have called in sick," she told herself. But she had a perfect attendance record and didn't want to screw that up like she may have screwed up other things. Not really knowing why, she had arrived at the office nearly an hour early. And she noticed she wasn't the only one, as she set her stuff on the desk. The door to Skinner's office stood open slightly. She figured he was hunched over the records he had requested on her. She turned away from the door for a moment and heard it open.

"Tessa," Skinner paused. "I'm glad you're here. I need to talk to you in my office."

Tessa obediently followed Skinner into his office. She felt like a puppy who had just been scolded and he hadn't said anything to her yet. So, she decided to beat him to the punch. "Walter, before you say anything, I want you to hear me out."

He sat down behind his desk and looked up at her, but said nothing.

Tessa took it as a cue to continue. "I'm sorry about what happened. I really am. I don't expect you to believe anything I'm saying but I'm gonna say it anyway. I never meant you hurt you. When I first accepted your dinner invitation it was with the intentions of getting on your good side. But now..." Tessa looked at Skinner. He was leaning an the desk, simply watching her. "Look, I know I sounded like a real bitch last night. I didn't know how else to handle it. It wasn't Mulder I was thinking of, it was you. I was sorry after it happened, more sorry than I can even explain." Tessa plopped into a chair. She shook her head. Why bother to continue, she asked herself. He's not believing any of it, even if it is the truth.

Skinner sighed. "I didn't call you in here to talk about that."

Tessa looked up in shock. "Oh great," she thought, "I just made myself look like a babbling idiot."

"But since you brought it up, I do believe you. And I'm sorry for insinuating the reprimands and the psychological report contained that kind of information." He flipped through a few papers. "I got your application for admission to the Academy, that's why I called for those reports. You've had some trauma in your childhood, I'm sorry. And the reprimands were all for minor infractions. I made a few phone calls this morning and I got you into this semester at the Academy. It started Monday, but if you leave this morning you'll get there in time for afternoon session. And if you work hard you can make up the days you missed."

Tessa stared down into her lap. She felt like such a heel. She hurt him, but he still did her a huge favor. Tears welled up in her eyes. "Why did you do it? Why did you go through all that trouble after last night??" She didn't looked up.

Skinner walked over to the door and shut it. He went over to Tessa and stood behind her. "Because, I care. You were right, what you do with your life is none of my business at this point." He laid a hand on her shoulder and felt her shuddering slightly. "But, I would like it to be."

Tessa looked behind her at him. She felt elated by what he just said. "Walter, I..."

Skinner shook his head. "Don't make any decision now. When you finish with the Academy, come back to see me."

Tessa rose and embraced him. She didn't want to let him go.

Skinner pulled away. "Go on, they're expecting you."

Tessa slowly walked to the door. She opened it and looked back at Walter "S for Sexy" Skinner.

"Go," he said. He watched her leave. While his head said he'd never see her again, his heart hoped otherwise.

*** THE END***