Disclaimers : All X-Files characters belong to their portrayers, and The X-Files belongs to Chris Carter, 1013 Productions, and FOX. Power Rangers characters belong to their portrayers and Haim Saban. I don’t use the storyline from PR at all, but you’ll see that in the story. Anything taken from Titanic is taken from James Cameron without permission. Please, I don’t want to be sued. I’m not writing this for any profit; it’s just a symbol of how much I like the X-Files, how much I used to like Power Rangers, and how much I LOVED Titanic.
Rating and Archiving : R for violence, descriptions of death, language, and weird relationships *Mostly PR* Please, do archive this. I love you all *blowing kisses*
Author’s Note : I’ve seen TOO MUCH TITANIC! So, I decided to write this :-) It is my second attempt at an X-Files/Power Rangers crossover, but this time I’m using a different approach: The Power Rangers were never power rangers. I just used the characters, not the plot. Let’s see how it goes.
Time Line : PR: never, but age wise, it would be the Turbo Ranger series after the graduation. For XF...after cancer before Emily. ‘Nuff said.
Summary : Fate is so powerful that it can draw eight young adults together as they were destined to be. It’s a force that can bring the best and the worst out of two FBI agents, their AD, and a familiar advesary. Fate is powerful enough to sink the largest ship ever, and, most impressive, fate is able to decide who lives, who loves, and who dies.

Fate
by: Christina Ortega

It was the biggest ship that he had ever seen. Everything he had ever heard about Titanic’s size quickly faded away, as he finally saw it for himself. The ship seemed to reach the sky, trying it’s hardest to join the heavens. He looked up, barely able to see the top of the ship.

All around him, people were swarming around the boat: young and old. Families with small children were talking to eachother, excitedly. Newlyweds and even older couples kissed each other, and said that it would be a ‘second honeymoon’. Young couples excitedly got on the boat, ready to spend a romantic week with their significant other. Some people came with friends, all eager to enjoy the week together, and then there were those that came alone, merely wanting to meet new people and experience the luxuries of the resurrected Titanic. This man felt none of this. He felt empty, sad, and hopeless.

Walking up to the entrance of the ship, the man pulled out his ticket and handed it to the blue-suited officer standing against the door of the ship. The slightly stout officer checked the ticket list before turning back to the man, “Fox Mulder?”

“That’s me,” Special Agent Fox Mulder replied. He had already checked in his luggage, so now he was only carrying a small leather briefcase. Mulder’s shiny brown hair was slightly tousled, as usual, and, instead of his normal suit, he was wearing a white T-shirt and blue jeans.

“Sir, your ticket is for first class, but the list says that you’re traveling second class. Is that right?”

Mulder nodded, somewhat morosely, “That’s right. I, um, had to change levels at the last minute. Problems with my roommate.”

The stout man nodded, understanding, and ushered Mulder inside, pointing him towards the second class rooms. While walking to his room, a horde of images came rushing into his mind as he remembered that awful fight he and Dana Scully had had right before the trip.

“I can’t believe you!” Scully had yelled, “You are such an arrogant bastard!”

“Being arrogant is a whole lot better than being like you, Ice Queen,” Mulder had sneered, “I can’t believe I’m still partners with you! Why do you have to shut everyone out?”

Scully had laughed wryly, “Me shut everyone out!? Look who’s talking, Spooky!”

“Maybe this whole cruise assignment is a bad idea,” Mulder had growled, “I would never want to be in the same room as you.”

“You won’t have to. I’ll have Skinner change our rooms.”

Inside, Mulder had been dying. _Apologize, you selfish creep!_ “Fine! I don’t need you!” _Yes, I do_

Mulder had seen a flash of sorrow in her eyes, but it was quickly gone, “I don’t need you either, Mulder. I’ll go to Skinner right now.”

Thus, Skinner had changed him to second class. Maybe it was better this way. He and Scully could have some time apart. _I don’t want to be apart from her_ Mulder thought, continuing down the hallway towards a staircase _I love her. Not that it matters._

Walking up the staircase, Mulder started down a hallway marked ‘Second Class’. Finally finding his room number, Mulder pulled out his silver key and unlocked it only to find two guys already inside. They were considerably younger than him. _Oh well. Company is company_ “Hi, I’m Fox Mulder. I guess we’re roommates.”

“I guess so,” One of the boys said. Mulder noted that he was quite muscular. His hair was dark brown, just a little shorter than his, and his eyes were a dark brown. Smiling, the boy put out his hand, “My name is Jason Scott, and this is Adam Park.”

“Nice to meet you,” The Asian boy said to Mulder. His hair was pitch black, and, though a little shorter than Jason, he was almost as muscular. Looking around the room which had three small beds, Adam smiled weakly, “I guess this is supposed to show us where we rank in the scheme of things.”

“No offense to you, but what are you doing down here?” Jason asked, turning to Mulder.

Mulder tilted his head, puzzled, “What do you mean?”

Jason grinned, “Sorry, it’s just you don’t really look like a second class passenger.”

“Social problems,” Mulder confessed, “I got kicked out of my first class room.”

“I guess you’re stuck with us, then,” Adam commented, flopping onto one of the beds. he looked around at the rest of the room. It had blue carpeting, and there was a small bathroom with a shower in the corner of it. A small window at the far end of the room gave the trio a beautiful view of the vast ocean.

Mulder flopped onto a bed next to Adam’s and sighed contentedly, “I don’t know. Somehow, I think this is going to be a very exciting week.”

“Agreed,” Jason said, “Who cares if we don’t go to the big parties in first class. Second class should be fun.”

“I’m glad that I’m not a rich asshole anyway,” Adam remarked, nodding.

Mulder grinned, but inside, he was thinking of Scully. _She’s all alone with Skinner. Why did we have to fight?_

Dana Scully looked at the room where she would be staying in awe. “It’s amazing,” she breathed, laying her backpack on the burgundy-quilted bed.

Walter Skinner, who had come in behind her, put a hand on her shoulder, “Scully, I know I’m your supervisor, but I want you to know that I’ve put everything into this week. If we’re going to be investigating, we’ll be investigating in style.”

_Without Mulder_ “I’m sure it will be great, Sir,” Scully said, looking at herself in the gold-rimmed mirror by the door.

Skinner, sensing something was wrong, sighed, “Look, Scully, I know part of you is upset that I put Mulder in second class, but he’ll be fine, and you can see him during the investigation. Oh, and while we’re here, it’s just Skinner...not Sir.”

“OK....Skinner,” Scully said, trying out the older man’s name, “Can you summarize the case for me again? I didn’t get a chance to look at the file before we came.”

“We’re looking for Harold Smith. He’s wanted for homicide, and his latest clue led us to believe that he would be coming on this ship. He could be riding any class, so we have to stay alert.”

“I won’t let you down, Skinner,” Scully said. Pulling her forest green suit jacket down, she smiled, “Well, I’m going to unpack, and then I’m going to get something to eat.”

“I’ll join you,” Skinner said, moving towards his suitcase.

“I don’t believe this! Everything is superb!” Billy Cranston exclaimed, looking around his huge first class suite, “This is nothing like any other cruise liner I’ve seen.”

“Isn’t it magnificent?” Mark Cranston questioned. “It’s the same size as the original Titanic, only this time the outsides are made of stronger metal. It’s the most beautiful thing ever.”

“Somehow, I don’t like the idea of riding a duplicate of Titanic. Are you sure it’s unsinkable?” Julie Cranston asked, nervously.

Mr. Cranston laughed, “Are you kidding, Julie? This ship is the safest thing ever! God himself could not sink this ship!”

“Is this ship called Titanic as well?” Billy asked his dad.

“Yes, Son, it is. Seeing the size of it, doesn’t it seem the best name? Titanic will never be feared again. It will be idolized as it was originally meant to be.”

“I don’t like this ship,” Mrs. Cranston said, sitting down on the king-sized bed, “I don’t like it one bit.”

“Whoa!” Tommy Oliver exclaimed, racing through the cramped hallways of third class towards his room, “This is incredible!” His long brown hair flew around wildly as he rushed past other third class passengers who were all looking at him strangely.

One of the passengers watched him fly by, scoffing, “Gee, someone’s a little excited.”

Rounding a corner, Tommy couldn’t stop himself before slamming into someone running in the other direction. “Shit!” Tommy yelled, getting up quickly to attend to the other person, “I’m so sorry! I didn’t mea-” he was cut off as he saw the woman who he had bumped into. She was slender with flowing blond hair and sapphire eyes. Her outfit was a creme low-cut blouse with a flowered brown skirt. Remembering what had just happened, Tommy snapped out of his pensive state and held out his hand, “I’m really sorry.”

“So am I,” The woman replied, “I guess we were both kind of excited.” She took Tommy’s offered hand, and pulled herself to her feet, brushing herself off. She smiled, “I guess we’re both lower class folk.”

_She has a beautiful accent. It sounds Australian_ Tommy noted. His eyes widened, surprised, before answering, “Sorry, I’m just kinda shocked. You don’t look like you belong down here with people like me.”

“I was about to say the same thing,” She said, smiling, “I’m Katherine Hilliard.”

“Tommy Oliver,” Tommy said. He grinned, “I don’t want to sound to forceful, but can I escort you to your room?”

Katherine laughed, “That wasn’t forceful, and I’d love you to escort me. I’m traveling alone, so it’s great I bumped into you.”

“Really?” Tommy’s eyes lit up, “I’m alone, too! Well, I guess I’ll be bugging you a lot this week.”

“I look forward to it,” Katherine said. Pulling Tommy over towards a door, she stuck a bronze key into the keyhole, “This is my room, which reminds me to ask you: what’s your room number?”

“548,” Tommy informed her. He smiled, “Since we’re both alone, can I take you to dinner at the lovely third class cafeteria?”

“I’d be honored,” Katherine responded. Before Tommy could add anything else, she leaned closer to him, eyes glimmering, “I’ll pick you up. Be ready by 7:00pm.”

Tommy nodded, saluting, “Yes, Ma’am.” He waved, “I’ll see you later.”

“Bye,” Katherine said. She watched as Tommy disappeared; rounding a corner into another hallway.

Walking into her room, Katherine was almost alarmed to find her roommate already there. _She looks about my age_ Katherine thought to herself. She smiled, “Hi, I’m Katherine Hilliard. I guess you’re my roommate.”

“I guess so,” The woman said. She grinned, “I’m Tanya Sloan. It’s nice to meet you. Judging by that conversation you had out there, I’ll assume you’re quite the socialist.”

Katherine blushed, “I bumped into the guy in the hallway. He’s traveling alone, too.”

“Cool coincidence!” Tanya said, chuckling. She picked up a ratty-looking pillow laying on her cot and put it on her lap, “I’m traveling alone too, Girl, but there’s one thing you should watch out for concerning me: I live for gossip, so now I want details about this guy. Is he cute? Muscular? Charming?”

Katherine laughed, “Oh, we’re going to get along wonderfully.” She smiled and laid down on her cot, looking up at the ceiling _I don’t like the idea of telling her all this gossip already. Oh well, it’s not like I’ll have anyone else to talk to besides Tommy this week_ “I’ll tell you this: he has a great body. He looks like a really athletic guy.”

Tanya nodded, “A great body. The guy gets one check. Sorry, go on.”

“Um, he seems really thoughtful. Like, when he bumped into me, he was really great about the whole thing. He apologized, and helped me up.”

“Sensitivity. Another check. Next?”

Katherine sighed, “Um, it seems like he has a sense of humor.”

“Two checks for that one,” Tanya said, “Humor goes together with conversation. Anything else?”

“He’s very polite,” Katherine said, “Oh, and he has a totally faultless face.”

“Polite and cute face. Two more checks,” Tanya grinned. She looked straight at Katherine, “Any downers?”

Katherine turned to Tanya, “His hair’s a little long. OK, it’s very long. It’s longer than mine!”

“Minus one,” Tanya said. She frowned, “Anything else?”

“Nope,” Katherine shook her head, “That’s about it.”

“The guy has five checks!” Tanya exclaimed, “That’s, like, a new record! I say go for it!”

“I don’t know,” Kat shrugged, “We have a lot in common and everything, and if we did get together it would probably work out, but I don’t know if I want to.”

“What!?” Tanya nearly screamed, getting up and sitting next to Kat, “Look, this guy sounds too good to be true! You don’t get many guys like that!”

“He just seems like someone I’d rather have as my best friend than a boyfriend. Have you ever had that feeling?”

Tanya shook her head, “The closest ever was Shawn, and we hardly speak anymore. Well, it’s your call. After saying what you just did, I agree with you. Since you are going with him to dinner, I guess I’ll leave you two alone.”

“Nonsense!” Katherine exclaimed, “You’re coming with us! That way he can meet you! Us third class people have to stay together!”

“That’s true,” Tanya said, “Well, it’s five now. I’m going to get my stuff laid out, and then I’ll join you.”

“Great!” Katherine said. She smiled, “Oh, and Tanya? Call me Kat.”

“Oh yay!” Jason exclaimed, sarcastically, “Strange looking grool!”

Mulder took a small bite, and quickly raised his napkin to his mouth to spit it out, “This is the grossest stuff I’ve ever had! Don’t they serve real food on this ship!?” Jason laughed.

Adam shrugged, “C’mon, guys, I’m sure it’s not that bad.” Taking a spoonful of the retched stuff, Adam seemed to turn as green as the sweater he was wearing, before sprinting for the door of the dining hall and running towards the deck of the ship.

Jason shook his head, “Poor guy doesn’t have a strong stomach. I bet first class has all the good food.”

Mulder nodded. Not wanting to think of Scully, he changed the subject, “So, how do you know Adam? Have you been friends for a long time?”

“We went to the same high school, and since he does martial arts as well, we got along,” Jason explained. “What do you do?”

“I’m with the FBI,” Mulder informed him.

As Mulder thought he would, Jason got really excited, “FBI!? Really!? That’s awesome! Um, what branch? Are you on a case here?”

“I work in a small division called the X-Files which investigates paranormal activity. Yes, there might be a homicide suspect on this ship named Harold Smith, but that’s to be kept strictly confidential, OK?”

Jason nodded, “You got it. Wow, the FBI!”

At that moment, Adam plopped back down in his seat next to Jason, holding his stomach. Mulder looked at him sympathetically, “Are you all right?”

“I’ll be fine,” Adam assured him, “No more grool for me, though. Maybe I’m just a little seasick.”

“I get seasick, too, but I got some new medication that helps, if you want to try it later,” Mulder offered.

Adam smiled weakly, “Thanks, Man.”

Just then, an Asian girl with long black hair walked up to the three, eyeing the empty seat at their table, “Um, are you saving this seat for anyone?”

Seeing that the two boys were too hormone-ridden to answer, Mulder nodded, “Go ahead.”

“Thanks,” The girl said, “There weren’t many seats left out there. This whole boat is so damn crowded.”

“Tell me about it,” Jason agreed, getting his voice back. “I’m Jason, by the way.”

“Trini Kwan,” The girl said, “It’s nice to meet you.” The two shook hands.

Mulder held out his hand, as well, “Fox Mulder.” Seeing that Adam was still in shock, Mulder chuckled, “And Mr. Silence over here is Adam Park.”

“It’s nice to meet all of you,” Trini commented, “I’m traveling alone, and it’s awful, in my opinion, not to know anyone.”

“I agree,” Mulder said, “These guys are my roommates, and that’s how I met them.”

Trini sighed, “My roommate is part of a large group of people. They’re the loud ones over there by the door.” She pointed to the group of twenty or so, “I just didn’t fit in with them. Again, I’m sorry for intruding.”

“Don’t apologize,” Jason said, “Feel free to join us at anytime.”

“Yeah,” Adam remarked, finally finding his voice, “The more the merrier.”

“Thanks,” Trini said. She looked at the gray blob in the middle of her food bowl, “Now all I have to do is figure out what this shit is.”

“I think that’s something that all of second class is trying to do,” Mulder chuckled. As the rest of the table laughed, Mulder glanced out the window, and swore that he saw Scully walk by. Getting up, Mulder looked at the three teens, “Um, I think I see my partner out there. I’ll meet you guys back at the room. Oh, it was nice meeting you, Trini.”

“Bye,” The trio chimed, looking at each other, confused.

Scully was walking along on the deck of the magnificent ship, taking in the sights, when she heard someone call her name behind her. Turning around, she nearly fainted as she saw Mulder running towards her. Forcing herself to keep her wall up, she stepped towards him, “What do you want?”

“I just wanted to talk,” Mulder replied, surprised by her angered tone, “We haven’t spoken at all over the past few days.”

“I’m not ready to see you, Mulder,” Scully said, coolly, “Why don’t you go back to second class?”

“Scully!” Mulder exclaimed, “Look, I’m sorry, but why are you so mad? I thought this whole fight had blown over!”

“What you said hurt, Mulder, and it’s going to take me more than a little bit to forget it,” Scully sneered, “If you don’t mind, I have to go over the case again with Skinner.”

“Skinner!?’ Mulder declared, “I can’t let you do that, Scully! I’m apologizing! Why can’t you accept that!?”

“Give me time, Mulder,” Scully persisted, beginning towards her room. Before she could get away, Mulder grabbed her arm.

“Scully, I miss you!” Mulder blurted out, “So far, this trip has been hell, and we’ve only been on board for a few hours!”

Scully’s eyes softened, but she shook her head again, “Mulder, I need some time. I’ll find you tomorrow.”

Mulder looked down at the soft arm of his partner which was being held by his hand. Hesitantly, his hand opened, and he let Scully’s arm fall away from it. Rubbing the bridge of his nose, Mulder sighed, “Scully?”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t forget me.” With that, Mulder sadly turned away and began towards the second class rooms.

“It’s seven o’clock, Mr. Oliver,” Kat called through the door of room 548.

“The door’s open,” Tommy called back, “Come on in.”

Kat and Tanya entered the cramped room, to find Tommy slipping a white tank top over his head. Kat cleared her throat, and Tommy turned around, smiling at the two girls, “Hi, Katherine. Um, I’m sorry...you are?”

“Tanya Sloan,” Tanya replied, “It’s nice to meet you, Tommy. Kat told me a little bit about you when she came into the room.”

“I said it would be OK if Tanya ate with us, Tommy,” Kat said, somewhat cautiously. “You don’t mind, right?”

Tommy shook his head, “No, I don’t mind. Hold on, let me just grab my key, and we’ll be on our way.” Picking up the bronze key laying on his cot, Tommy ushered the two girls out of the room, locking it behind them.

“Do you have a nice roommate?” Tanya asked Tommy as they walked through the hallway.

Tommy shrugged, “He’s OK. I don’t know. The guy’s kinda quiet. One of the shy types, I guess. He’s older, though. Probably in his late twenties to early thirties.”

“What’s his name?” Kat questioned.

Tommy frowned, “Alex...something. I don’t remember what it was now. Weird thing about him....he has a prosthetic arm!”

Tanya’s eyes widened, “A prosthetic arm!? What happened to him?”

“I asked him about it, but all he would tell me was that it happened when he was on vacation in Russia.”

“I don’t want to know,” Kat said. She pointed towards a sign above them, “The dining hall is this way.”

The three looked in horror as they came upon the third class cafeteria. It was quite grimy. Most the people inside were smoking, making the room hazy, and a quarter of the people inside were drunk. Walking in, Tanya began to cough heavily, “Ugh, this is awful!”

“Let’s get out of here. I have some spare food in my suitcase,” Kat suggested.

“Good idea,” Tommy agreed. The three, gagging, left the smoky cafeteria.

Reaching Kat and Tanya’s room, the trio walked inside, sitting down on the cots. Kat pulled out three water bottles and a couple of boxes of food. Tommy looked at her, shocked, “Are you sure you’re willing to give this much? If not, I can fend for myself, and-”

“Tommy, this is one of the only times you will be offered food by a woman willingly, and I suggest that you take it,” Kat said, a gleam in her eye.

Tanya took a bite of a cracker and smiled, “It’s not first class, but it’s most likely better than anything in that third class dining hall.”

“I wonder what it would be like in first class,” Tommy thought aloud.

“It would be perfect,” Kat answered for him, “The food would be perfect, the rooms would be perfect...everything would be perfect.”

Scully and Skinner walked through the elegant dining hall of first class, side by side. Scully, in a white blouse with brown pants, looked up at Skinner, who was wearing a standard suit and tie, “The food was great! I’ve haven’t eaten so well in ages.”

“It’s the best food around,” Skinner agreed. As a family passed by them, Skinner stopped Scully, and they turned around to face them. He leaned closer to her, “That’s the Cranston family.”

Scully gasped, “Cranston? That’s one of the biggest names in technology! The whole family has millions of dollars!”

“They are very rich. Their son, Billy, is following in his father’s footsteps. In fact, most of the latest Cranston products were hand-crafted by Billy.”

“Amazing,” Scully breathed.

“Oh,” Skinner said, pointing to two people that had just begun talking to the Cranstons, “That’s Robert Hart and his daughter, Kimberly. He’s one of the biggest fashion designers of the decade.”

Scully nodded, imprinting both names in her brain. She sighed, “I’m going to go back to the room. You can stay if you want.”

“No,” Skinner said. He grinned, “I didn’t know you were so tired, Scully. I’m sorry. Besides, I’m kinda worn out myself.” Saying this, the two began back towards their room.

“Hello, Mark,” Robert Hart said to the blond-haired man who was, currently, talking to his wife, “I hope you remember me. I’m Robert Hart, of Hart Fashion, and this is my daughter, Kimberly.”

“Yes,” Robert said, unenthusiastically, “I remember you, Mark. We met at your show a year ago.”

“Darling, why don’t you go talk to Billy while I talk to the Cranstons?” Mr. Hart suggested.

Kimberly sighed, “OK, Dad.”

The two teens walked over to a table where a few people were sitting, and sat down. Billy frowned, “Well, I guess you know that I’m Billy Cranston.”

“I use some of your products,” Kim said, trying to make conversation, “How does it feel to be part of the most advanced technology company?”

“It’s pretty boring,” Billy admitted, “The only people you get to be around are big industry people. I don’t have many friends because of that.”

“I know how you feel. My whole life has been spent going to fashion shows. Not that there’s anything wrong with them. Most of the shows are exciting, but sometimes I just want to get away from it all, you know? I want to get to know other people.”

“I guess we have something in common then,” Billy said, smiling.

Kim nodded, “I guess so.” They continued talking for nearly and hour as their parents discussed foreign markets and ideas for the new millennium.

“Hey, sleepyhead, rise and shine,” Kat cooed, brushing Tommy’s arm with her hand.

Tanya ‘tsked’ “Not a light sleeper. Take away another point. Actually, never mind, this can be good sometimes.” Giggling lightly, Tanya took her pinkie finger and softly dragged it across Tommy’s face. He swatted at it with his hand, sighing heavily. Again, Tanya dragged her pinkie finger across Tommy’s face. This time, he accidentally smacked himself in the face, which quickly woke him up.

He was greeted by the laughter of Kat and Tanya, who were nearly crying. He smiled groggily, “Ha ha, very funny.”

“You wouldn’t get up, so it was the only thing left to do,” Tanya said, still laughing.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to fall asleep. You could have kicked me out.”

Kat brushed a strand of golden hair away from her face, “We would have, but you looked too peaceful. I couldn’t do it.”

“I would have,” Tanya explained, “but she wouldn’t let me. Besides, you did look really cute asleep.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” Tommy chuckled. Fishing through his pocket for his key, he frowned, “I hope Alex didn’t miss me too much.”

“You should probably go back just in case,” Kat said.

Tommy grinned, “You trying to get rid of me, Katherine?”

“I don’t know you well enough to want to get rid of you, Tommy,” Kat retorted, “I just don’t want you to go back to your room to find Alex has stolen all of your stuff.”

“Good point,” Tommy agreed, “Well, I’ll be off. Have a good morning, ladies.”

“Bye,” Kat and Tanya chimed in unison. After Tommy had left the room, Tanya sighed, “You were right. He is worth five checks.” Kat laughed, and Tanya quickly joined her.

“What the hell are you wearing!?” Jason exclaimed, looking at Mulder.

Mulder shrugged, “Suit and tie. Why?”

Adam sighed, “Look, Mulder, I understand that you’re with the FBI and everything, but if you’re undercover you’ve got to dress undercover.”

“What do you mean, and how did you know I was with the FBI?” Mulder asked, looking at Jason suspiciously.

Adam, understanding what Mulder thought, smiled, “If you really didn’t want me to know you were with the FBI, then you shouldn’t have left your badge laying on your bed!”

Mulder looked down at his cot, only to see that Adam was right. His badge was laying open. Jason stifled a chuckle. Mulder shook his head, “Oh well, it’s confidential, so don’t tell anyone.”

“I’m good at keeping secrets, Man, don’t worry.” Adam assured him. “Now, about that outfit. If you’re traveling second class, then you have to look second class. Let’s modify that outfit.” Mulder’s eyes widened as both Adam and Jason walked forward, ready to change his appearance.

Tommy walked into his room only to find that Alex was already up. He frowned, “Sorry that I didn’t come back last night.”

Alex Krycek sighed, carefully putting his fake arm through the sleeve of his black leather jacket, “Where were you?”

“I was with two girls that I met yesterday,” Tommy explained, quickly realizing that what he said hadn’t come out right.

As expected, Krycek smirked, “Oh, you’re an amateur slut! Good for you, Oliver. You’re becoming a man. Did you get any last night?”

“No,” Tommy said, “That didn’t come out right. The food was nasty in third class, and this girl, Katherine had brought some extra food, so we ate over there, and I guess I dozed off.” Changing the subject, he grinned, “What did you do last night?”

“Ate whatever that damn stuff was in the cafeteria, chatted a bit with our neighbors, and slept. I was tired.”

“So was I,” Tommy commented. He plopped down on his cot, shifting through his suitcase to find another outfit, “Anything you were going to do today?”

Krycek shook his head, “What about you?”

“I was going to probably go up on the lower deck with Katherine and Tanya to check out the ocean. You’re welcome to come.”

Krycek pondered this for a moment _I shouldn’t. Knowing my luck, Mulder or someone else will find me. That would make this trip so much more interesting. Ick!_ Seeing the urging expression on Tommy’s face, however, Krycek shrugged, “I’ve been wanting to check out the deck, too. Sure, I’ll come.” _I must be nuts_

“Great!” Tommy declared, “Well, I’m going to change, and then I was going to go up to the dining hall to see if they had anything edible. Have you eaten yet?”

“No,” Krycek said, “I’ll join you, though. Who cares if it’s gross? I’m starving.”

“Let me just get changed,” Tommy uttered, taking off his tank top.

Jason, Mulder, and Adam walked out onto the lower decks of Titanic, happily breathing in the fresh air. Jason ran over to the side of the ship, eagerly looking off the railing. Adam quickly joined him. Mulder laughed, “Just don’t fall off the ship, guys, because I’m not jumping in after you.”

Both boys ignored Mulder. “It’s beautiful,” Adam breathed, sniffing in the sea air.

Jason, in his blue jeans and black tank top, positioned himself so the wind ran right through his hair. “Awesome,” he whispered, putting his arms out, and taking in the breeze.

Mulder, who was now wearing blue jeans and a slightly wrinkled white dress shirt, ran a hair through his scruffy hair, “This is great.”

Just then, Trini walked up to the three in a yellow striped midriff shirt with beige pants, “I thought I recognized you three! Isn’t the view incredible?”

“It’s amazing,” Adam said, turning to face the new arrival, “Besides our food, this whole trip has been amazing.”

“I agree,” Jason said, nodding, “This is wonderful.”

“Have you been enjoying yourself, Trini?” Mulder asked.

Trini nodded, “I was going through hell, but now that I met you three, at least I’m not alone.”

Adam pensively looked up at the first class deck. He sighed, “I wonder how different it is up there.”

“I wonder, sometimes, how bad it is for third class,” Jason pondered, “I mean, second class is trashy enough as it is. Can you imagine worse food than what we have?” The four grimaced.

Mulder looked up, quickly turning away as he saw Scully and Skinner walk out together on the first class deck. Trini caught the motion and moved closer to him, “What’s wrong?”

“Two people I know are up there,” Mulder explained, “They’re from my job.”

Trini looked up to see a bald man wearing a suit and tie standing next to a petite redhead wearing a beige blouse with a flowing blue skirt, “She’s beautiful. Do you work with her?”

“Yeah,” Mulder sighed, “Her name is Dana....Dana Scully.”

Adam thought he heard something in his voice. Sorrow? Longing? Passion? Maybe all three? Whatever it was, he decided to let it slide. “Are you going to talk to them later?”

Mulder nodded, “I should right now, actually.”

“Um,” Jason began. “You’re not allowed to go on first class decks.”

“Shit!” Mulder exclaimed. He frowned, “I guess I’ll have to get them to come down here.” Waving, he ran towards first class.

Trini giggled, “This, I’ve got to see.”

The three did their best not to laugh as Mulder began jumping up and down, trying to get the two first class passengers to notice him. As they suspected it would, it took a few minutes for them to see him.

Scully, from up above, looked down, incredulously, as she saw Mulder jumping up and down like an idiot. She ran over to the railing, “Mulder!? What are you doing!?”

“Come down here!” Mulder yelled, “We need to discuss something, and I can’t go up there!”

Skinner breathed heavily, “We’ll be right there, Mulder.” The two disappeared from sight.

In a few minutes Scully and Skinner had joined Mulder on the second class decks. Mulder bowed, as was necessary for all second class passengers. Skinner sighed, “You don’t have to do that, Agent Mulder.”

“Only following the rules, Sir,” Mulder informed him, dryly.

Scully put a hand through her red hair and looked at Mulder thoroughly, “Mulder, what happened to you? You look like hell!”

“Just playing my part, Scully,” Mulder explained, “If I’m riding second class, I have to dress second class.”

“What do you need to know about the case, Agent Mulder?” Skinner questioned, ignoring the agent’s comment.

Mulder folded his arms over his chest, “Well, everything. You haven’t told me much about anything, Sir. First class must be really good, since I haven’t seen you at all.”

Skinner’s teeth clenched together, “We’ve both been busy, Agent Mulder, and I would hope you would accept that.”

“Whatever,” Mulder grumbled, “Just tell me about the case.”

Skinner grunted, but, instead of continuing the argument, he did as Mulder asked, “We’re looking for Harold Smith, who is wanted for homicide. He’s in his forties, blond hair, blue eyes, about six feet. Keep an eye out for someone matching that description. If you think you see him, get a message to one of us. I think that’s all you need to know.” He began to walk off the deck, surprised when Scully didn’t follow him.

“I need to talk to him alone,” Scully said, answering his silent question. Skinner nodded, reluctantly, and walked away from the two.

Mulder leaned towards her, “What has he been doing to you, Scully? Skinner was coming on to you! Didn’t you notice.”

Not answering the question, Scully scowled, “What are you doing, Mulder? You were totally out of line!”

“You’re defending Skinner!?” Mulder exclaimed, unbelieving, “Has Skinner been coming on to you, or have you been coming on to him!?”

“What!?” Scully whispered, harshly, “What are you talking about? I’m not coming on to Skinner!”

Mulder shook his head, calming himself, “He’s coming on to you, Scully.”

“He’s my boss!” Scully declared, “and might I remind you that he’s also yours.”

“Scully, I’m not making this up!” Mulder told her, “Can’t you tell?”

Scully sighed, her lips pursed, “The only thing that I can tell is that you are being completely irrational, Mulder. That’s all I have to say to you.”

As she began to walk away, Mulder put a hand on her shoulder, holding her back, “I miss you, Scully. Don’t shut me out.”

“I’m not,” Scully assured him. She turned around, her eyes soft and glimmering, “I’m sorry we fought, Mulder, but this is the situation I’m in, and I’m going to make the best of it.”

Mulder rubbed the bridge of his nose, “Do you like Skinner?”

“What!?” Scully said, practically shouting, “Of course not!”

“What about me?” Mulder asked, “Do you like me?”

Scully swallowed hard, diverting her gaze, “You’re my partner, Mulder. Don’t forget that.”

“I need to know, Scully,” Mulder commented, practically pleading.

Scully looked up at Mulder, her breath shaky, “No, Mulder. You’re my best friend, and the greatest partner I could ever hope for, but I can’t say that I...” Her voice trailed off.

Mulder looked at the ground, letting go of Scully’s shoulder, “OK. I’m sorry that I asked. I’ll see you tomorrow.” He began to walk down to his room, ignoring cries from Scully for him to come back.

A tear rolled down Scully’s cheek, but she quickly brushed it away and walked up the stairs to first class. _He’s just kind of upset right now, and it wasn’t like I could tell him how I really feel..._

Tommy and Krycek came up onto the third class deck, laughing heartily. Tommy chuckled, “I think something was moving in mine.”

Krycek grinned, “Mine tasted like shit. I wonder what that crap was, anyway.”

Tommy groaned, jokingly, “I don’t think I want to know.”

As the two reached the deck, they looked over the side, amazed. Krycek breathed in the sea air, closing his eyes and taking in the sounds of the ocean, “This is great.”

Tommy, who was now wearing blue jeans and a white shirt which was not buttoned, ran a hand through his long, brown hair. The wind rushed through his shirt, cooling his bear chest. Pointing towards two chairs lined against the railing of the ship, he smiled, “Feel like relaxing over there?”

“Why not? I’m a little uptight, and a good sun bath won’t hurt,” Krycek said, nodding. The two walked over to the white chairs, lying back on them. Krycek took off his leather jacket, exposing his tight, black shirt. Pulling out sunglasses from his shirt pocket, he put them on, closing his eyes. He groaned in pleasure, “This is the life.”

“I’ll second that,” Tommy agreed, pulling back his shirt so that his chest would feel the warmth of the sun. Looking over at Krycek, he smirked, “How small is that shirt, Alex? I don’t think I could fit in that! What, are you trying to get a woman’s attention?”

“Ha ha,” Krycek laughed sarcastically. “Most of my shirts wouldn’t fit over your bulging chest anyway. To answer your question, no, I’m not trying to get a woman’s attention, and this shirt was made to be small.”

Tommy smiled, closing his eyes, “If I fall asleep, promise to wake me up.”

“I won’t sleep,” Krycek said, somewhat unconvincingly, “I’ll just rest my eyes.” Both men stayed quiet, letting the sun’s heat and the sound of rolling waves lull them to sleep.

Tommy opened an eye, sleepily, taking in a deep breath. Out of the corner of his eye, he could make two people out, standing above him. “Shit,” he muttered, rubbing his eyes. Opening them again, Tommy saw that the two people were Kat and Tanya. He grinned, “Just catching up on some sleep.”

Tanya chuckled, “Like you didn’t get enough sleep on my cot!”

Tommy merely grinned, tapping Krycek on the shoulder. The older man stirred, turning to face Tommy. He smiled groggily, “See, I told you I was just resting my eyes.”

“Uh huh,” Tommy nodded, disbelievingly. He motioned towards Kat and Tanya, “We have company.”

Krycek looked up at the two women. Taking off his glasses, Krycek stood up, giving the two his most charming smile. Eyes twinkling, he kissed both girls’ hands, “I’m Alex, and you fine ladies are?”

Tanya blushed, “I’m Tanya.” She glanced down at Krycek’s prosthetic arm, but quickly turned away from it, not wanting to be rude.

“I’m Katherine,” Kat replied, giggling besides herself.

Tommy smirked, “Always the flatterer, aren’t you, Krycek?”

Krycek shrugged, “If I didn’t flatter these two, I would merely be keeping myself from having a very joyful experience.”

“This is a side of you I never thought I’d see, Krycek,” Tommy said, smiling.

Krycek laughed, “There are many sides of me you’ve never seen, Tommy.” He suddenly frowned, “Some of them you don’t want to see.”

Tommy looked at him, worriedly, “Are you OK?”

Krycek looked up at him, snapping out of the pensive state he was in, “Yeah, I’m fine. Don’t worry about it.”

Tommy, unconvinced, merely nodded. Kat motioned towards the seats where they were sitting, “Do you mind if we join you?”

“As long as you don’t mind sitting by me and Mr. Charm here,” Tommy said, once again in his playful mood.

Krycek smirked, “Tommy, I would suggest that if you ever want to be liked by women, that you comment on their loveliness, personality, and everything else that you love about them, because if they never know how you feel, then they’ll only feel unloved.” There was a flicker of sadness in his eyes, but it quickly went away, as he grabbed Kat’s hand, “I take up a lot of room, but you can join me if you want to.”

Kat smiled, “I’d be glad to join you.” Kat sat down in the chair next to Kat, as Tanya joined Tommy. The four talked, good-naturedly, unaware of what was going on in other classes of the ship.

“Mulder seemed pretty pissed,” Jason said to Adam, as the two stood on the second class balcony. They were both waiting for Trini to return from her room. She had gone to use the restroom, or so she said.

Adam nodded in agreement, “Yeah...I think he likes her.”

Jason tilted his head in puzzlement, “His partner?”

“Mmm-hmm. He likes her. It’s written all over his head.”

Jason stifled a laugh, “Speaking of liking someone, here comes Trini.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Adam asked.

Jason smirked, “Don’t use that innocence act on me! Go for it, Man! I’m sure she feels the same way.”

Before Adam could respond, Trini appeared in front of them, smiling brightly, “Hey, guys! Sorry that took so long.”

Jason nudged Adam a little bit, and Adam cleared his throat, nervously, “Um, I was wondering if I could ask you something, Trini.”

“Always, Adam. What’s up?”

Adam took in a shaky breath, “Well, I know I’m being kinda forward, but would you go with me to the second class party out here tonight?”

Trini smiled, nodding, “I’d love to, but only if you’d come with me now to help me pick out an outfit.”

Adam looked at Jason, expectantly, “You don’t mind, Jason?”

Jason shook his head, “No. Go ahead. Have fun.” Trini and Adam nodded, leaving Jason alone on the second class deck. Rubbing his face with his hands, Jason looked out over the railing of the second class deck onto the third class deck. _I wonder what it’s like down there_ he thought _Well, I guess there’s only one way to find out_ With that, he began down the stairs leading to the third class deck.

Jason walked to the railing of the third class deck, looking over the vast ocean. “What lies ahead?” Jason asked himself aloud. Looking around the people on the deck, Jason saw they were of all size and race. Some were young children sitting with there parents, and some were considerably older. Just then, someone caught his eye: a woman...a beautiful woman. She was African American, and was wearing a yellow tank top with a black skirt. Her hair was tied back with a yellow band, and she was wearing black heeled shoes.

With this woman were three other people: one woman and two men. The woman had shiny blond hair, and was wearing a pastel pink shirt with blue flares. Her hair was held back by a claw, with a few stray strands of hair hanging loose.

One of the men had very long brown hair, and was wearing a white shirt which was unbuttoned, showing his chest, and blue jeans. The other man was wearing a black shirt, blue jeans, and had a black leather jacket draped over his shoulders.

Try as he might, Jason could not tear his eyes away from the Black woman, and, finally, gave in to the desire to approach the four.

Meanwhile, Krycek looked up to see Jason walking towards them. He turned to Tommy, “You know him?”

Tommy shook his head, his brow creasing, “Nope. Kat? Tanya?”

“Never seen him before” Kat said.

Tanya sighed, “He’s cute.” Tommy snickered.

Jason stopped in front of them, almost trembling with fright, “Um, hi. I’m Jason.”

“Alex,” Krycek said, cautiously.

Tommy grinned, somewhat confused, “I’m Tommy.”

“Katherine,” Kat said, looking at the others.

Tanya grinned, “I’m Tanya. Are you alone?”

“For now,” Jason answered, relieved that the group was accepting him, “My friend, Adam, ran off with a girl.”

Tommy nodded, sympathetically, “It happens, man. You want to join us?”

“Do you mind?”

Kat shrugged, “The more the merrier.”

Jason smiled thankfully. He sat down next to Tanya (purposefully), “I’m not cutting in on any conversation, am I?”

“Not really,” Krycek said, “We were just talking about nothing.”

“That’s one of Tommy’s specialties,” Kat laughed.

Tommy smirked, “Oh yeah, everyone picks on me.”

Tanya grinned, “We do it cause we love you.”

“Awww...” Krycek cooed. The others laughed.

Kat returned her attention to Jason, “So, where are you from?”

Jason began a lengthy tale of his whole childhood, and where he was from. The others listened, interestedly. Once he had finished, Tommy whistled low, “Wow, that’s one hell of a childhood.”

“You can say I got the worse of a lot,” Jason said, sighing.

Tanya nodded, “I got a lot of that, too, Jason, only my problems were more with racial discrimination. I’m pretty low on money, so it’s not like I was regarded highly, not just because of my financial situation, but because of my race.”

“Well, as far as I know, everyone’s been discriminated for something. I was discriminated against because I was usually a good student. I wasn’t a nerd or anything like that...but there were those kids who are probably now dead, who would make fun of me,” Krycek said.

Tommy grumbled, “Hair.” The other four laughed.

Kat sighed, “Hmmm...maybe my ballet. It wasn’t exactly a popular dance in high school. It was old fashioned, boring, too easy, etc... Luckily that’s stopped. “The five continued to talk, as two people in first class did the same thing.

“It’s too boring up here!” Kim complained, pushing her brown hair out of her face. She and Billy were sitting in Kim’s first class suit on a leather couch, looking out of the large window which had a nice view of the ocean. White curtains lined the window, and made soft shadows fall onto the shiny wood floor.

Billy shrugged, “What can we do? My parents aren’t here, and neither is your dad, and none of the festivities start until later.”

Kim sighed, “Haven’t you ever been curious about third class?”

Billy shrugged, “What about it?”

“You know...what it would be like. I’m so used to having money, and I’ve often thought of what it would be like not to have any.”

“I’ve never really thought about it,” Billy responded, “I guess a part of me has always wanted to associate with third class passengers.”

“OK, then, let’s go!”

Billy’s brow creased, confused, “Where?”

“To third class, of course!” Kim exclaimed, “It will be fun. We’ll only go for an hour or so, and out parents wouldn’t miss us. What do you say?”

“I suppose it wouldn’t do any harm,” Billy sighed, “Sure. Let’s go.”

“Shit,” Krycek muttered.

Tommy frowned, “What’s up?”

“Look who it is,” he pointed at two people coming down the stairs.

Tommy’s eyes widened, “Isn’t that Billy Cranston?”

Tanya’s eyes narrowed, “Billy who?”

“Cranston,” Tommy said, “He’s one of the biggest names in technology software.”

“Who’s that woman with her?” Jason wondered aloud.

Tanya gasped, “Kimberly Hart! Oh my gosh, her dad is the biggest name in fashion! I’ve seen Hart clothes all over the place...for my birthday I got a shirt of hers. They’re the best.”

“What do we do for first class passengers?” Kat asked, “We don’t just treat them like we would anyone else, right?”

Krycek nodded, “I think we’re supposed to suck up to them.”

“Damn,” Tommy muttered, “I hate sucking up to people.”

Tanya laughed, “Krycek’s a pro. He’ll get us through.”

Krycek smirked, “Ha ha, Tanya, and, yes, I will get us through this. Oh yeah, and you have to bow. It’s appropriate.” Tommy groaned.

As if on cue, Billy and Kimberly stepped right in front of them. Billy looked down at Kat with a weird sort of arousal. Kat blushed as she realized she was being stared at. The five bowed their heads politely.

Kim stifled a laugh, “Please don’t bow. I’ve been flattered enough as it is.”

Clearing her throat, Kat pulled her head back up and smiled, “Hello, Mr. Cranston...Miss Hart...um, welcome to the lower decks.”

Billy smiled, “Please, just Billy and Kimberly. We hate those professional sounding words.”

“Did you need this area for anything, um, Billy?” Tanya asked, cautiously.

He shook his head, “No. It was boring in first class, so we thought we’d see what you were up to.”

Kim looked at Tommy, grinning as she saw his uneasiness, “Are you going to say your name, or do I have to refer to you as ‘hey’?”

Tommy looked up at Kim, offering her his most handsome grin, “Sorry about that. I’m Tommy Oliver, and this is Tanya Sloan, Katherine Hilliard, Jason Scott, and Alex Krycek.” He pointed to the people as he said their names. Everyone smiled politely and exchanged greetings.

Billy asked Krycek to scoot over, and he took a seat next to Katherine, momentarily looking at Krycek’s left ‘arm’. Dismissing the wood that he saw, he grinned, “So, how’s the service been for you down here?”

Krycek frowned, “The food could be a little better, but besides that we’re fine.”

“Are you all third class passengers?”

Jason cleared his throat, “Um, I’m a second class passenger. I just came down here because my friends were all...busy.”

Kim took a seat next to Tommy, still looking him over carefully. Tommy looked at Krycek, flustered. This gained a small giggle from Kat, and a smirk from Krycek. Kim, finally drawn from her pensive state, picked up a strand of Tommy’s hair, examining it, “You have really great hair. Are you Indian, or something?”

“American Indian, yeah,” Tommy replied, still nervous, “Why? What heritage are you?”

Kim sighed, “Regular English. There’s not much that’s interesting about me, except that my dad’s a big name in fashion, and I’m a pretty good gymnast.”

“Really? I’m in ballet, and, in the summer, I dive,” Kat said.

Tommy nodded, “I’m into martial arts.”

Jason’s eyebrows raised, “Really? So am I!”

Tommy smiled, “That’s cool. Do you spar?”

“Are you kidding me? I live for sparring!” Jason exclaimed, “We’re going to have to spar together sometime.”

Tommy nodded, “I’ve just added it to my ‘To Do’ list.”

Tanya shrugged, “I sing. One day, when I get enough money, I hope to try and get an agent.”

Krycek sighed, “Nothing interesting about me.”

Tommy swatted his arm, supportively, “Come on, Alex, there’s got to be something.”

_If you only knew what I’ve done over the past few years. My gun has become my best friend_ Krycek thought. He shrugged, “My parents were Cold War immigrants, so I speak some Russian.”

Kim smiled, “There you go! Russian is awesome! Hey, can you speak a little?”

Krycek nodded, and began a series of complicated sounds, which the others listened to, amazed. When he finished, they all clapped. Jason laughed, “Whoa! That was cool!”

“Awesome, man!” Tommy exclaimed.

Krycek couldn’t help but blush, “It’s not that good, and-”

“I won’t even hear it,” Tanya said, “That was excellent.”

Tommy chuckled, “Aw, we made Mr. Charm blush!”

Everyone except for Kim and Billy broke out in a chorus of “Awwww’s”. Kim and Billy looked at each other, confused. Kat smiled, “We’ll explain later.” They nodded.

Suddenly, Kim and Billy’s ears perked up as they heard a loud “BBBBIIIIILLLLLYYYYY!!!” echo through the ship. Billy grimaced, “I guess that’s our cue to go.”

“Maybe we’ll see you again,” Kim said.

Tanya nodded, “It was nice meeting you.”

“Later, guys,” Jason said,

Everyone exchanged their farewells. Billy and Kim got up and left, waving. Once they were at the steps leading to the second deck, Billy turned to Kim, “I like it down there.”

Kim sighed, “I’m starting to like third class better than first class.” Billy nodded, and the two walked back up to first class, where their parents were waiting.

From back on the dock Jason stood up, “I should get going, as well. I’ll see you around sometime, right?”

“Count on it,” Tommy said.

Tanya grinned, “It was nice meeting you.”

Jason blushed, “Same here.” He waved and left.

Kat moved from next to Tommy and sat next to Tanya, “Someone’s got a cru-ush!”

Tanya nodded, somewhat passionately, “Definitely more than five checks.” Kat laughed, and the two looked at Tommy.

He frowned and shrugged, “What?” They merely giggled in response.

Scully sat down on her thick quilted bed, miserable. She couldn’t get the thought of Mulder out of her head. Images of him were flashing into her mind as she pictured him. Picking up her burgundy pillow, she folded it in her arms, closing her eyes. Like a raging storm, a flood of memories, both good and bad, returned to her.

She could see herself standing in only her underwear in front of Mulder when they had gone on her first case. The room was dark because the power was out, and the only people present were her and Mulder, who was wearing a blue shirt that day, and was carrying a candle.

He bent down behind her, bringing the candle he was holding closer to her back. She was shaking, afraid that she was to be the next victim of a horrible murder. Scully had felt bumps on her back...the same bumps that all the other victims had. “What are they?” She implored, trembling, somewhat because she was cold and wet, but mostly because she was afraid.

Mulder did not answer. He was very close to her, now. She knew because she could feel the heat from the dim candle warming her icy back. Panic overcoming her, she questioned him again, “Mulder, what are they!?”

Scully felt his breath on her back, and chill went up her spine. Just then, she heard her new partner laugh lightly, “Their mosquito bites.”

“Are you sure?” Scully asked, sighing with relief.

Mulder chuckled, “Yeah, I got eaten alive myself out there.”

Feeling light headed, Scully literally fell into Mulder’s arms, not knowing whether she was going to shout for joy or cry because she had been so scared. Mulder, who had stepped back, apparently startled by her gesture, sobered and spoke again, accepting her into his embrace, “You’re shaking.”

“I need to sit down,” Scully said, feeling light headed. He had supported her as she calmed down, and they had talked for nearly an hour. Those had been the good days, when things hadn’t been so complicated, both in their work and in their relationship. Now, everything was just a confusing mess.

Another time, just a month or so later, Scully and Mulder had been confronted by Men in Black for the first of numerous times in their career. They had forced them out of their car, and were searching through their case information, dumping out information from folders and destroying film from Mulder’s camera (much to his dismay). Always counted on to be defiant, Mulder had boldly asked, “Can you tell us what this is about?” How was he answered? By a hard kick to the back of his knees. Just seeing that look of pain and loss on Mulder’s face, both at that moment and the whole ride back to the motel, had torn Scully’s heart in two. This is when she realized that her relationship with Mulder was not just partnership. No, it was so much more. At that time, she didn’t know what that ‘more’ was.

“That’s ironic,” Scully murmured allowed, “I still don’t know what my relationship with Mulder is.”

Her thoughts were interrupted as Skinner walked into the room, smiling, “They’ve just begun serving dinner if you’re interested.”

“You go ahead,” Scully said, “I’m not in the mood.”

Skinner frowned, “What’s wrong?”

“I’m just thinking,” Scully said, “I don’t really want to be around a lot of people.”

Skinner growled, “What did Mulder say to you?”

“Sir?”

“He must have said something to you, Scully, because you were fine before he talked to you,” Skinner commented. He sat down on the bed next to her, sighing deeply.

Scully shook her head, “He didn’t say anything to me. I was just thinking how unfair it is for him to be in second class. Yes, I know it’s too late for him to be transferred up here, but I still can’t help but feel sorry for him.”

“Mulder’ll be fine,” Skinner practically snarled, “This is our time to enjoy ourselves.”

“It’s nothing against you, Skinner!” Scully exclaimed, shocked by his odd behavior.

Skinner touched Scully’s hand, lightly, calming, “It’s just hard to always have to compete for your attention.”

Scully gasped, realizing what he meant, “Mulder was right!”

Skinner breathed heavily, “Mulder’s always right, Scully. Please, you know how I feel.”

Scully smirked dryly, “Now I do.”

“It’s against FBI protocol, Scully...Dana...” Skinner said, full of lust, “but we can keep this secret...can’t we?”

“Get away from me,” Scully whispered, backing away.

Skinner moved closer to her as a result, “You don’t mean that.”

This time forcefully, Scully yelled, “GET AWAY FROM ME!” Pushing Skinner with all her might, Scully jumped up to the door of the room and ran out before he could stop her.

Tommy laid back on his cot, closing his eyes and yawning. Krycek, from the other side of the fairly small room, smirked, “Gee, you do get tired fast.”

Tommy opened an eye, smiling, “I’m a growing boy who needs my sleep.”

Krycek chuckled, lying down on his cot, and putting his leather jacket on the ground. Pulling the flimsy white blanket crumpled at the bottom of the cot over him, he sighed, tranquilly, “I had a great day today, Tommy. Thanks for inviting me along. I know it’s probably not fun having an old guy with a fake arm tag along with you for the day.”

“Hey, man, I’m hoping that we do this the rest of the week,” Tommy exclaimed, “I had fun, too!”

Krycek closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath, “When I was in high school, I was considered part of the popular group, and I guess it hurt to get out of there and realize that most of the people I thought were my good buddies weren’t even my friends at all. Since then, I haven’t been very good with people.”

Tommy grinned, “You could have fooled me. It seemed like you were in your element out there.”

“Maybe I was just experiencing a flash from my youth with you guys. Besides, you’re a great group of people.” _Maybe I was just trying to make up for the part of my life that I screwed up. I’ve probably killed more people than all the consortium members combined_

Tommy winked, devilishly, “It seems like you have a thing for Katherine.”

Krycek shook his head, “She’s sweet, but I’m about ten years older than her, so it wouldn’t work. Besides, I thought you liked Katherine.”

“At first I thought I did, but then I realized that she’s the kind of girl that would be a really good friend, not a girlfriend. Dating Katherine would be like dating a sister.”

“Well, that Kim girl had the hots for you, and that you can’t deny.”

Tommy looked at him, brow creased, “Alex, she’s a first class passenger, and I’m in here...no offense.”

“None taken,” Krycek assured him. “Seriously, though, you really need to think about this. Who cares if you’re not the same ‘class’? If you like her, I say go for it. The worse she could do would be to say no and slap you.” Seeing Tommy wince, Krycek laughed softly, “Sleep on it, Lover Boy. You never know. Miracles can happen...no offense.”

Getting up, Krycek flipped off the light. Murmuring their goodnights, the two men pulled their blankets over them and slowly drifted off to sleep, both with troubling thoughts in their minds.

Kim picked up her white hairbrush and began putting the small brush through her smooth hair. Now, in only her delicate pink silk nightgown, she was sitting atop the white-quilted full sized bed in her fancily decorated room. A TV was embedded in a small corner of the room, surrounded by gold-framed pictures and beautiful china dishes which hung from the wall.

There was a soft knock on the door and, sighing, Kim called for the visitor to enter. As the person opened the door, Kim quickly realized that it was Billy. Smiling, she motioned for him to sit on the bed with her.

Billy, in a faded blue silk short-sleeved shirt and black pants, sat down next to Kim, grinning, “I guess the question, Miss Hart, is what you were doing to that poor third class passenger.”

Kim frowned, confused, “What do you mean?”

“You have really great hair. Are you Indian, or something?” Billy imitated in a falsetto voice.

“He did have nice hair,” Kim argued.

Billy smirked, “You stared at that Tommy guy for ten minutes. When you finally looked at someone else he was already as red as a tomato!”

Kim hung her head in self-defeat, “OK, that was rude, I admit, but I was nervous around them, and, honestly, I found him attractive!”

“Remember, Kim, he’s a third class passenger.”

“So!?” Kim implored, “Just because he’s in third class doesn’t mean he’s a bad person or anything!”

Billy shook his head, “I didn’t mean it like that! What I meant is that your dad isn’t going to be thrilled at the fact that you were flirting with a third class passenger.”

“Your parents won’t be thrilled at the fact that you were flirting with a third class passenger, either,” Kim retorted.

Billy’s brow creased in puzzlement, “Who?”

“Katherine,” Kim said, “It’s obvious you fell for her.”

Billy rubbed the bridge of his nose, “All right, I promise not to tell anyone about today if you promise.”

“You can count on me,” Kim replied, smiling. Finished brushing her hair, she stood and put the brush back on her night stand.

“I don’t know what to do,” Billy admitted, “I really like Katherine, but there’s no way we can get together!”

“Sure you can,” Kim argued. “Look, I understand that Katherine’s a third class passenger, as is Tommy, but I’m willing to try new things, so to speak. Are you?”

Billy nodded, “Yes, I am.”

Kim smiled, “I think that puts any argument to rest.” Billy grinned, as well.

Mulder pulled his white shirt off and laid back on the hard cot in the room, putting his hands over his face, “Well, goodnight, fellows.”

Jason sighed, happily, “Goodnight.”

“I had a great day,” Adam said.

The three had only just turned off the light when there was a loud banging at their door. Mulder got up, eyeing his gun that was laying on the floor, “Who’s there?”

“Mulder, it’s me,” A voice called.

Immediately recognizing the voice, Mulder literally jumped over to the door and flung it open. Scully was standing there in tears. Embracing her, Mulder led her into the room and ushered her towards his cot, letting her sit down. He looked at her, eyes glimmering with concern, “What’s wrong Scully? What happened?”

“You were right about Skinner,” Scully sobbed, “He tried to make a move on me!”

“That bastard!” Mulder snarled. “Scully, I want you to stay here tonight, all right? I just don’t want Skinner making anymore trouble.”

“Thanks, Mulder,” Scully whispered, wiping her tears, “I was just about to ask you if I could stay.”

Mulder turned to Adam and Jason, “You two don’t mind, right?”

Adam shook his head, “If it helps your partner out, then it’s fine with me.” Jason merely nodded, agreeing.

Scully took off her shoes, and she motioned for Mulder to lie down on the cot. Somehow, the two were able to squeeze on it together, comfortably. Jason seeing that they were in no position to move, got up and shut off the light. The four slowly went to sleep, thinking of the day.

The next morning Scully awoke to find that she was nestled in Mulder’s arms. He was still asleep, looking as peaceful as a young child, with no lines visible on his face. His soft, brown hair fell limply onto his forehead and she watched as his chest rose and fell slowly. His body was warm on hers, and it was at that moment that she noticed both of them were bare-chested. She, however, was still wearing her bra, but the night before, her shirt hadn’t been comfortable so she had taken it off.

_You know you just wanted to feel his skin on yours_ She thought to herself with a smile. Carefully squirming out of Mulder’s grip, Scully put her shirt back on and slipped on her heeled shoes. Making sure to be silent, Scully slowly exited the room.

Reaching first class again, Scully opened the door to her room only to find Skinner sitting on her bed. There were bags under his eyes from lack of sleep, and his face was creased in either anger or nervousness. Scully couldn’t tell which one it was. Gulping hard, she entered the room, and approached him, “If you don’t mind, I’d like to get changed.”

“Where did you go last night?” Skinner questioned, ignoring her statement.

Scully, though nervous, kept a cool face on, “You were behaving strangely, Sir, and, unsure if you were intoxicated, I decided to go to someone else’s room.”

“You went to Mulder’s room,” Skinner accused.

Scully nodded, not guilty at all, “Yes, Sir, I did go to Mulder’s room.”

Skinner shook his head, “I told you to call me Skinner this week, Scully.”

“With all due respect, _Sir_,” Scully began, accenting her superior’s proper term. “I’d rather make this trip strictly professional.”

Skinner folded his arms over his chest and sighed, “I know you’re interested in Mulder, Scully, but I just can’t allow this to go any further.”

Scully was fuming now, “My relationship with Agent Mulder is none of your concern! I’m afraid that you overestimate your authority in this situation!”

“Perhaps what I’m doing is wrong, Scully, but you must remember that relationships between agents, especially partners, is strongly forbidden. If I allow this to go on, I’m ultimately turning my back on one of the most important policies of the FBI!”

“You dare to talk to me about relationships in the FBI after what you tried to pull last night!?” Scully demanded, incredulous.

“All that will come out of a relationship between you and Fox Mulder is a ruined career, a messed up partnership, and a broken heart, Dana,” Skinner persisted, “For your own well-being, make the right choice.”

“I am making the right choice,” Scully declared, “and I choose Mulder. That’s all I have to say. Now, can I please change out of these clothes?”

Skinner hesitated for a moment, looking into his agent’s eyes. Finally, he grunted, stood, and left the room. Scully sat down on her bed, tears rushing down her cheeks. Though what she had done was hard, she knew she had done the right thing, and what she had said was the truth _Now, how do I tell Mulder?_

Mulder paced through the small cubicle that he, Jason, and Adam would be calling home for a week, both angrily and sorrowfully. Why had she left him? What had he done to get her this upset? Could she really like Skinner more than him? _Stop being possessive_ he told himself _You’re not good enough for her anyway_

Adam watched Mulder walk back and forth, almost hypnotized. Having recently gotten up, he was still in his green sweatshirt and black shorts. His black curly hair hung in tousled knots on his head, and his eyes were still slightly closed due to grogginess.

Jason, who was sitting on his bed in only black boxers, spoke up, “I’m sure she just didn’t want to overstay her welcome. You’ll see her today.”

“We fought before this trip which is why I’m not with her now,” Mulder admitted, absent-mindedly. “Whatever happened last night is probably my fault.”

“Don’t blame yourself,” Adam said, finally breaking out of his trance, “I’m sure she had a very good reason for leaving.”

Jason smiled, “Why don’t you just tell us how you feel about her, Man? Sharing your feelings can help.”

Mulder frowned, confused, “What?”

“C’mon, Mulder! I mean, look at all this guilt your putting on yourself, and it’s obvious that you’re jealous of this Skinner guy. Just say that you like her,” Adam said.

Mulder smirked, “Yeah, right, guys. I like my partner. That’s plausible.”

“Well, excuse us for reading every single body signal and mental thought that you’ve let us see as being attraction towards your partner,” Jason sneered. Picking up his pillow, he positioned it so he could lean comfortably on the dull white wall, “I’ll share my feelings, then, to show that I’m not a wimp like someone in this room. I like Tanya.”

Adam’s brow creased, and Jason could sense the wheels turning in his head, “Who’s Tanya? I don’t think I met her?”

“You were too busy with Trini, the love of your life.”

“I don’t--” Adam cut off his argument and looked at Mulder, who was, at the moment, contemplating his feelings for Scully. Looking at Jason, he saw him nod, answering his silent question. Adam smiled, “You’re right, Jase. I really like Trini. In fact, I’ve never felt this way about anyone.”

Even though he had said what he did because he was trying to help Mulder let his feelings out, Adam knew that he had just told the truth. Trini meant everything to him. Going to the second class dance with her the night before had been like something out of a beautiful dream. He had no idea how he would let her go after the Titanic reached it’s home port again. _I’ll just stalk her day and night like a mad man_ Adam told himself with a grin.

Mulder sighed, “You aren’t going to let me get out of this ‘sharing feelings’ thing, are you?”

Jason shook his head, smiling triumphantly, “Spill it.”

“All right, but this is a secret, so both of you keep this quiet.” Adam and Jason looked at each other before nodding. Mulder took in a deep breath, “Um, when I first laid eyes on Scully...Dana five years ago I fell for her instantly. She had everything I loved in a woman: brains, looks, personality...we were both very dedicated to our work so we clicked. Sure, we’ve had our moments over these years, but I still decided to keep my love for her secret. Then, when I came on Titanic, I just felt a sudden surge of freedom, and I could no longer hold in my feelings. That leaves us in the present.”

“What do you mean by ‘moments’? Were you romantically involved before?” Adam asked.

Mulder shook his head, “No, we were never involved, but we did share moments of, how do you say it, sexual tension, whether it was the touch of a hand, a hug, or even eye contact.”

Jason grinned, “That’s so romantic, Man! Now I think you should definitely go for it!”

Mulder shook his head, “We just fought, remember? Plus, what about Skinner?”

“Screw him!” Adam exclaimed, “Who gives a fuck if your boss likes your partner?” Jason just looked at him, startled by his uncharacteristic language. Adam just shrugged.

Mulder smiled and nodded, “You guys are right. Maybe I should go for it. That means that you guys have to go for it, too.”

“What do you mean?” Jason asked.

“Tanya and Trini...Tanya and Trini...” Mulder sang, jokingly. He barely had time to laugh before pillows flew from the hands of his roommates, knocking him back on his cot. The three laughed, and talked more about how wonderful the trip had been so far.

Krycek sat in the small room he was sharing with Tommy alone, staring at the jagged ceiling and letting his mind argue with himself. Tommy had gone off with those new friends of his, Kat and Tanya. Alex had been invited to come along, but he had refused. This time would let him reflect on everything that was going on around him.

He knew that Mulder was here because he had seen him getting on. A part of him just wanted to pull out his gun and finish the asshole off, but he couldn’t. Not here. Not around so many people in an enclosed environment where escape would be impossible. Then there was Tommy.

Alex’s original plan had been to kill his roommate so that he could think of a way to kill Mulder in peace; maybe even get in a way to shoot Skinner as well, but he couldn’t kill him. He couldn’t kill Tommy, and, honestly, he didn’t know why. Did he feel that he owed it to the boy, or did he see a ghost of himself in Tommy’s eyes?

Either way, Krycek couldn’t kill him. In fact, he had taken a liking to the boy. _Too bad he’s not a rouge_ Krycek thought _He seems like a smart kid, and, besides, he knows Karate. We’d make great partners_ but he didn’t dare ask him. Tommy could alert the authorities, or worse, Mulder himself. Krycek cringed at the thought. _No, I have to keep everything secret...for my own sake_

Now that he pondered the issue more, Krycek realized that he did see Tommy as a ghost of himself in high school; social, energetic, outgoing, good looking....if Tommy didn’t have his long hair they could have been separated brothers! Closing his eyes, Krycek let his thoughts drift to his last day of high school...one of his last days of happiness, and yet one of the saddest days of his life.

It was the ideal day. The sun was setting in the distance, and, on top of a hill covered in deep green grass, sat a group of four teenagers, excited that they would be graduating from high school the next day. As a breeze rolled by Gina Davis pulled her creme sweater tighter around her shoulders. Gina could have been a supermodel with her long brown shiny hair, perfectly shaped body, and flawless face. In fact, everyone called her supreme. Most of her friends were surprised that she never auditioned for any modeling jobs.

Her shivering body was covered by a heavy black leather jacket, put on her by her boyfriend, Alex Krycek. She smiled and kissed him on the cheek, “Always thoughtful.”

“I’d kill for you, baby,” Alex cooed, putting his arms around her. His hair, which was a walnut brown, was combed back, accenting his shining green eyes. He looked into his girlfriend’s brown eyes, thinking of how they reminded him of the eyes of an innocent fawn. Their lips nearly met, but they stopped after hearing laughter from around them.

Jeffery Klein laughed out loud, looking at the couple in front of him, “Aww, isn’t that cute! You should just propose to her now, Alex!” Jeff’s hair, which was blond, almost touched his ears. His blue eyes sparkled, teasingly, as he stared at the boy who was now blushing.

Alex was almost beet red as he faced his friend, “At least I give my girl the attention she deserves!”

Jeff continued to snicker as he put his hand around his blond-haired girlfriend, Brittany West. Alex had dubbed her ‘blondy’, always telling Jeff that she was just a stupid bimbo. Jeff, though, would hear none of it, “I give you the loving you deserve, don’t I, Britt?”

“You know I love you,” Brittany said, full of lust. Her sapphire eyes sparkled as she looked at Gina smugly. Gina just smiled competitively, and took hold of Krycek’s shoulders, beginning one of her famous massages. Alex groaned in pleasure, closing his eyes and breathing in the cool evening air.

Jeff just sighed, “So what if Britt can’t massage...yet? She’ll learn!”

Gina smirked, “I’ll bet.” Growing sober, she leaned over and kissed Alex’s cheek, “This is our last night before high school ends. I don’t want to lose you.”

“You’ll never lose me,” Krycek assured her, “I’ll always be with you. I love you, Gina.”

Brittany scanned everyone, beginning to get teary, “I’m afraid we’re all going to lose touch.”

Jeff smiled, “Britt, you’re never going to get rid of me. Besides, you’ll always be able to find Alex and Gina. They’ll be married next year and already have three kids!”

“Really, Jeff? I would have said the same thing about you and blondy!” Alex exclaimed, feigning surprise. Gina just laughed, and continued her massage. Reaching a sensitive point, Alex took in a sharp breath, just to relax again into his girlfriend’s arms.

“You keep that massage up, Gina, and your going to give Krycek a heart attack!” Jeff said, teasingly.

Gina smiled, “I know how to please my man. To me, there are many other ways to have sexual pleasures than being slutty and having sex every week like you.”

Jeff touched his heart, pretending that a stake had just run though it, “You’re breaking my heard, Davis, but at least I’m not a virgin!”

Alex’s eyes flew open, and he glared at Jeff, “I told you not to touch on that again.”

Jeff held his hands up, defensively, “Whoa, Alex, you know I didn’t mean any harm. It’s good both of you are waiting. In fact, I wish I had waited...nevermind...I’m glad I didn’t.”

Brittany smiled, “Let’s go, baby. I wouldn’t want to invade on Alex and Gina’s last night together.”

Gina chuckled, “It’s not our last night, Brittany.”

Brittany just giggled, “Sure it’s not.”

Jeff got up and pointed an accusing finger at Alex, “You better meet up with me before the ceremony tomorrow, or I’m going to come after you with my dad’s gun.”

Alex sighed, “There’s no one I’d rather spend my afternoon with, Jeff.” The two high-fived each other. Jeff, then, put his arm around Brittany, and they walked down the hill, leaving Alex and Gina alone.

Gina smirked, “I don’t know how you stand him.”

Alex shrugged, “Jeff’s cool. Blondy gets on my nerves, though. If she ever hurts Jeff, I’ll kill her.”

Gina laughed, “I can’t picture you killing anyone, Alex. You couldn’t harm a fly because you’d be afraid that it would become depressed.” Alex just chuckled in response to this.

Gina moved her hands lower on Alex’s back, finding a tight point and massaging it, cooing in sympathy as Alex took in another sharp breath. He laughed, “Maybe Jeff was right about you giving me a heart attack.”

Gina laughed, “Should I stop?”

Alex smiled, “I wouldn’t go that far. Is this how you always seduce men?”

“No, just you, Alexander Krycek,” Gina declared. “We’ve been going out for more than a year! I know everything about you...I know your fears, your dreams, and, most importantly, I know how to turn you on.”

Alex smirked, “Was that a threat?”

Gina simply moved in front of him, kissing him long and hard. Finally backing away, she grinned, aroused, “Why don’t I let you find out?”

She put her lips on his again, rubbing the back of his neck with her palms. Alex began to tremble, the warm touch on his neck sending chills down his spine. Pulling away again, Gina smiled, “I want you, Alex. I want you more than anything else. Tell me I can have you.”

Alex’s breath was shaky, and he could feel his cock perk, as if waiting for him to answer. Finally, he gave in to his body, and his heart, “Take me, but let me have you.”

Gina’s breath was low and seductive, “Alex, you had me a long time ago.”

Krycek sighed. That night, up on a peaceful hill overlooking his hometown, he had given up his virginity to the one woman that he had ever truly loved. Gina had been everything to him. At that point in his life, he was sure that what Jeff had been saying to him that night would come true: he’d propose to Gina in the future, and they would end up getting married. If only life were still so simple.

After graduation nothing really changed. That summer was the best time he’d ever had. What he had told Tommy was true: Krycek had been popular, and had, therefore, had a lot of fun. True, he lost touch with most of his old friends after a few months, but that didn’t matter to him.

Now, however, everyone knew that Krycek had no intention of giving Gina up. At first, when he had begun going out with her, other girls would still come up to him and try to steal him away, or vice versa, guys would try and take Gina, but both of them were strong. What else could he say? They were in love.

After about two months of being in college, Krycek had gotten a letter from Jeff, saying that Brittany had left him over some strange dispute over her freedom. Over break, Jeff, Gina, and Alex all came home, and the couple did their best to encourage Jeff. He was feeling low...really depressed, and Alex was the only one that he told the truth: Brittany left Jeff because she was repulsed by the idea of marriage. As far as he knew, she had become a prostitue.

Jeff, though always the teaser, had been one of Alex’s only true friends, and he was devastated to learn that he had overdosed on pills while he was in college. Getting excused from school, Alex returned home to attend the funeral. Gina was there, also, and had been a huge comfort for him during the time. She was able to convince him that there was nothing he could have done to prevent his death. Jeff had been depressed, and had been afraid to share his feelings, and keeping them bottled up just made things worse. Finally, Jeff had seen death as the only way to escape. In a way, looking back on life, Krycek was almost jealous of the fact that Jeff had gotten out of life when he did.

The next summer Alex popped the question while he and Gina were celebrating her birthday. It had been very romantic. Krycek and Gina had stayed in an apartment they were both renting for the summer, and had eaten a candlelight dinner, made by Krycek. For some reason, a lot of people found it hard to believe that he could cook. Whenever he had been asked about his cooking skills, his response was always “Fuck you.”...except when Gina asked him, of course.

She had been overjoyed, and easily agreed to marry him. The wedding was to be in the spring...in May. Alex had described it as “beautiful scenery for a beautiful woman.” True, Gina had grown even more beautiful in that year span. Whenever he saw her, he had to fight to keep control, both of his thoughts and of his body.

It was in January that it happened. Alex and Gina were both on vacation from school, and the break was like any other. They talked about the wedding, planning out details from where they were going to live (well, where they could AFFORD to live), to what they were going to wear on the day of the wedding. The couple was inseparable...it was that simple.

One day, they had gone out for a late dinner at some Italian place, and they were walking home through the city, hand in hand. To get to their apartment, they had to walk through an alleyway which led to the stairs into the building. Beginning down the alleyway, they quickly stopped, startled to see two men glaring at each other and holding guns.

Both turned around. One man said, “You two never saw me.”

The second man smirked, “and you never saw me.” That was the first death Alex Krycek would ever see, and it would definitely not be his last. The second man shot the first one, and aimed his gun right at Krycek, who froze.

He smirked, “What’s the matter, man? You never see a gun before? Too bad it’s the last thing you’ll ever see.”

Alex barely had the courage to turn to Gina and tell her to run. When he did, she just grabbed his arm, “I’m not leaving you.”

Alex had thought of screaming at her to leave, but he couldn’t. Looking at the man with the gun, he saw that he had advanced, and was now just a few feet away. The gun was still pointed at him. He clicked the safety off, and aimed. Everything when in slow motion from there.

Krycek saw the bullet exit the gun and come whirling at him. Bracing himself for impact, his eyes squeezed together in fear, Krycek was almost shocked not to feel any pain. At first he thought he was dead, and that he had already left his body, but then, hearing footsteps run past him, he knew he wasn’t. Opening his eyes, what he saw made him cry out in anguish. Gina was lying on the ground, gasping for breath. Blood was coming out of a deep hole in her stomach. Her brown hair was matted against her forehead. Beads of sweat were on her face. Krycek knelt down by her, feeling faint. “Y-you took a...bullet...for me. Oh, shit, Gina, why? Oh gosh, no. You can’t die, Gina. Believe me, you’re going to live.”

Gina forced a smile, and she motioned for him to move closer to her, “I love you, Alex. I would die for you...hey, I am.”

Alex shook his head, “I love you, too, but I’ll get you help. You’re going to make it, Gina.”

She shook her head slowly, “I love you. Remember....I love you...”

Her hand, which had been grasping Alex’s, fell limp, and he felt as though he was going to have a heart attack. Everything in life had been so simple. How could anyone be so cruel as to take another’s life. What authority do they have to do that? How is it right to take another person’s life? No one should have that right.

Alex pondered these things as he laid on his cot, near tears, “What authority do I have to take another person’s life. How many people have I killed?” He was sure the number would exceed both his toes and his fingers combined.

Gina’s death was what caused him to join the FBI. He wanted to make a difference. Alex, most of all, wanted to make sure what happened to him never happened to anyone again. It was in Quantico that he first heard of Fox Mulder. At the time, Krycek had found the stories of the agent fascinating, and soon found himself interested in the X-Files. At Quantico, he had been lucky enough to attend one of Mulder’s profiling lectures. Though he used unorthodox methods, Krycek found everything about the man interesting, and soon began thinking of whether Mulder’s notions of government conspiracies and extraterrestrials were real. That was when he’d met him. The man that would decide the course of his life forever.

At first, when he was called to meet with who he though was a supervisor at Quantico, Krycek thought that it was either to tell him he’d flunked a class, or that he was doing well, and should be moved to a more advanced class.

The man, who, he noted, had an obsession with cigarettes, had begun the meeting as Krycek had thought he would. “You’re doing well here at Quantico,” he had said, “Alex, you are superior to most of the students here.”

He had merely given his thanks for the complements, and had expected new course assignments, a reprimand...what happened next nearly frightened him. The smoking man brought up something it had taken him years to get out of his mind: Gina Davis.

The man knew everything about her! He knew that they had been engaged, and he knew that she had been killed in an alleyway. Hell, he even knew that Gina had died in his arms. Krycek had become upset by this, and had demanded to know what was going on. What did he get in return? A rather nasty bruise on the cheekbone from one of the smoking man’s employees. “Control yourself, Alex,” The man said, “I’m not here to fight with you, and I apologize for opening any old wounds, but what I’d like to do is offer you revenge.”

This had appealed to Alex, “Revenge?”

“I know the man that shot Gina Davis,” the smoking man said, “I’ll give him to you so that you can finish him off, but you must work for me.”

“You’ll give me the opportunity to kill this man if I just come work for you?” Krycek was suspicious, “What do you want me for?”

“As I said before, you’re at a much higher level than most of the idiots in this academy. You have both the intelligence and the charm that I’m looking for in an employee, Alex. What do you have to lose? I’m giving you the man that shot Gina, don’t forget. If you don’t take my offer, you’ll never find him.”

The choice tore him apart. This man was a good salesman. Krycek wanted nothing more than to kill Gina’s murderer, but what price was he willing to pay? What did this man want from him? Was he really all that valuable? “How do I know you’ll complete your end of the bargain?”

The smoking man grinned, “Intellectual, charming, and a player. I’m impressed, Alex. Now I’m sure I want you to work for me. If you agree to become my employee, I’ll give you an unlicensed weapon. I’ll contact the man who killed Gina Davis, and tell him that I have an employee who will give him important information. You will be that employee, Alex. You’ll approach the man with a folder, which will be empty. As he goes to look at the contents, you shoot him. It’s as easy as that. Now, will you join me?”

What he said next he would regret for the rest of his life, “I’ll join you.”

By now, Krycek was in tears, sobbing. Everything used to be so simple. Now, he didn’t even know who he was anymore. How many people had he pretended to be? How many of the people he killed had a wife, kids, a decent life? In his mind, these were all things he could never have.

Yes, Alex did kill the man who shot Gina. He took the gun and the folder the smoking man had given him, and went to meet him. As the man looked into the empty folder, Krycek had just pulled the gun out, cursed the man’s name in every way he knew how, and had shot him. Three times. The bastard deserved it....it was Krycek’s first kill.....it wouldn’t be his last.

After that, all the memories were just flashes. Krycek had been assigned as a partner to Fox Mulder, and even though he hadn’t finished all the courses at Quantico, the smoking man was able to get him in with fake records. Plus, Krycek did know everything that a fresh agent would know, having been more advanced than them.

At first Mulder hadn’t liked him. He had missed Dana Scully, his ever so beautiful partner. Part of him had felt bad about her abduction, but that wasn’t him. That was Duane Barry, and sure, he’d almost made Mulder fall off a ski lift, but he was the stupid one that climbed on top of it.

All in all, if they weren’t on different sides of the playing field, Krycek would have liked Mulder. When they started out as partners, and Mulder began to trust him, Alex found that his dream to work with his idol had come true. He took a liking to Mulder. When Augustus Cole was about to kill him, Krycek shot Cole first. Then again, Cole had wanted to be killed, but still...

In a way, it was ironic. Mulder treated him like dirt, but, in reality, it was him that was the arrogant, stupid one. To him, there was only one answer: the truth. Krycek smirked, “Too bad you’re to blind to see that the truth isn’t the only answer. If you’d realize that, we could be allies, because I’m against the truth, but you’re all for it.” Not that Mulder would want to be allies with him anyway. He had shot his father, and not stopped his former partner, Luis Cardinal, from shooting Scully’s sister, Melissa, in time, but, in Krycek’s mind, they were even. Alex had taken Mr. Mulder and Melissa, and Mulder had taken...his arm. Krycek blamed him for that. Damn Russians and their stupid ways of avoiding the Black Cancer tests. He laughed, maniacally, “I hope one of those black cancer worms comes out of Mulder’s nose on his first date with Scully.” No such luck, he figured.

Mulder had also, literally, taken his life. If it weren’t for Mulder, Krycek may have still been living a pretty average life, only he would have killed a few people. Krycek had always hated Mulder for that. With Scully’s abduction, he hadn’t even been a part of that. Cancerman had never told him what he planned to do with her. Fuck Mulder and his stupid accusations.

Hiding his gun in his suitcase, Krycek began out the door, thinking that it would be a good idea to find Tommy and the others. He was almost all the way out the doorway. when he heard voices from the other room. Curiously, he ducked back his room, backing against the wall. Two figures came out of the room next door. One of them laughed, “Tomorrow is the day, Harold.”

Krycek saw a smile creep onto this man, Harold’s, face, “How devastating it will be for this Titanic to experience the same misfortune as the first one.” The two chuckled and walked down the hallway.

Alex let himself breath again before returning to his suitcase. Peering inside, he saw his two guns: a standard size and a smaller model. Picking up the smaller model, he took his ankle harness and attached the gun their. He grinned, “Who says Mulder’s the only one allowed to have a weapon on his leg? Besides, if I need it, I don’t want to be caught short handed.” Thinking about how much his gun had become a constant companion over the past years, he quickly prayed for Gina to forgive him from Heaven, and jogged out the door. Stopping a moment by Harold’s room, he frowned, “I think I should keep an eye on this one.”

Adam and Jason, after eating breakfast, convinced Mulder to go up to the second class deck for a bit to get some fresh air. Even though he seemed in lighter spirits, the guys still knew that he was feeling guilty about Scully’s disappearance, and they thought that the fresh air would do him some good.

Walking out from the shadows of inside second class to the harsh glare of the sun outside, the three sat down on benches propped against Titanic’s railing. Jason closed his eyes, relishing the feeling of warmth on his face from the sun, before turning to Adam, “How was the dance yesterday.”

“You guys should have come,” Adam exclaimed, “It was awesome!”

“Loud music wasn’t exactly appealing to me last night, and if I had only gone with Jason, people may have thought, you know, fruity thoughts.”

Jason laughed, glancing at Mulder, “I’m a little too young for you, Mulder. Don’t worry about anyone thinking that we’re gay.”

Mulder frowned, “I’ve been called gay more times than I’d like to imagine.”

Adam smirked, “You!? With who?”

“You remember my boss who was with Scully yesterday?”

Jason’s eyes bulged, “You don’t mean--”

“Some of the guys I work with think that we’re both gay.”

Both Adam and Jason burst into laughter. Adam, recovering first, patted Mulder’s shoulder, “Sorry, man. That must suck!”

“Then they thought I was gay with this former partner of mine.”

Jason lifted his eyebrows, teasingly, “Is this why he’s your former partner.”

Mulder shook his head, “Nope, but I don’t want to go into the gruesome details. Anyway, it was only because all the women agents thought we both looked good and looked really good working together.”

Adam smiled, “Was he gay?”

“Alex? No, I don’t think he was gay. Some people said he was bi, but I don’t believe that either. He seemed like too much of a ladies man. I don’t think he’s anything anymore, though.”

“What do you mean?” Jason asked.

Mulder was about to reply, when he looked over the second class railing just to see someone who made his blood run cold, “Bastard.”

Jason’s eyes narrowed, “Hey, man, it was just a question.”

Mulder was already out of his seat and looking over the railing, “I don’t believe this! Shit!”

Adam and Jason were by his side instantly, and were looking over the side. Adam looked over at Mulder, “Who do you see?”

Mulder just shook his head and began sprinting down the stairs to the third class deck. Adam and Jason were about to follow him, but they froze as they saw their roommate draw his gun. Jason glanced at Adam, puzzled, “I don’t know what’s going on, but whatever it is won’t be pretty.”

Krycek had just joined Tommy, Kat, and Tanya in the seat he had sat in the day before, only to look up to see someone that he knew very well sprinting towards him. “Damn,” he muttered, jumping to his feet.

Tommy jumped up next to him, “What’s going on?”

Krycek just grabbed Kat’s arm and began pulling her towards the stairs, motioning for Tommy and Tanya to follow him, “Come on. We have to go.”

Kat, startled, nearly tripped as she did her best to keep up with Krycek, “What the hell are you doing? Let go of me!”

Krycek didn’t stop. Instead, he just continued running, motioning to Tommy and Tanya again, “C’MON! MOVE IT! WE HAVE TO GET OUT OF HERE!”

Tommy, not needing any more warning, grabbed Tanya’s arm and dragged her towards the third class stairs as quickly as he could. Tanya was about to protest when she saw a man in a white shirt and blue jeans running towards them...with a gun. Screaming, she sprinted as fast as she could towards Krycek, ending up dragging Tommy along with her, “Who is that!? He has a gun!”

“Don’t look at him,” Krycek yelled back to her, “Just run! Go back to the room!” Ushering Kat, Tommy, and Tanya into the stairwell, he squeezed inside just as Mulder reached the third class deck.

Looking back, Krycek bent down and grabbed the gun from his ankle. Seeing the gun, Kat moved back towards Tommy, “What’s going on?”

Krycek didn’t look at her. Instead, he kept his eyes on the door to the stairwell, “Now’s not the best time to explain.”

As he expected, Mulder came crashing through the door. The two men aimed their guns at each other. Mulder spoke first, “Pleasure meeting you here, Krycek. Seems like that money you’ve been making in Russia is paying off.”

“I don’t work for them anymore, Mulder,” Krycek argued, not breaking his concentration on his aim, “The least you could do is let this be.”

“Not after you killed my father!”

Krycek sighed, “Is an apology what you want, Mulder!? I can’t offer you anymore than that! Look, there are ups and downs in life. Live with them.”

Mulder shook his head, “I should shoot you right now, you bastard! After all you’ve done to me!”

Krycek stepped forward, tauntingly, “Kill me then, Mulder. I’m right here, and if you fire I won’t be able to respond in time. Go ahead and pull the trigger, Mulder. I won’t be missed.” From behind him, Krycek heard a few gasps, and he prayed that Mulder didn’t hear them.

Unfortunately, he did hear them, “Hostages already, Krycek? I’m impressed.”

Tommy stepped forward next to Krycek, eyes blazing with hatred, “Look, Mister, I don’t know who the hell you are, but I’m not a hostage, and neither are these two. Why don’t you just go back to your class level and leave us be?”

Mulder only smirked, “A fan club then, Alex?” Facing Tommy, he frowned, “Back up, Son. You may not realize it, but you’re in danger.” To his surprise, Tommy didn’t step down. Instead, he moved right in front of Krycek, blocking Mulder’s shot. Mulder shook his head, “Don’t make me shoot you, kid.”

Krycek sighed, “Move, Tommy. This isn’t about you.”

Tommy’s eyes widened, incredulously, “This guy’s pointing a gun at you, and it isn’t about me?”

Krycek, seeing Mulder’s eyes grow colder, became frantic, “I’m not playing around, Tommy. Move!” Tommy just shook his head, and Krycek saw his muscles tighten.

Mulder moved closer to Tommy, taunting him, “I’m warning you. Move, or you’ll be sorry.”

“If you go back to your class level right now, then I’ll keep this quiet, and I’ll make sure everyone else does as well.”

Krycek, not knowing what else to do, tried pushing Tommy, “Please, move! You don’t want to test Mulder. Let him shoot me if that’s what he wants to do.”

Flinching at the pleading tone in Krycek’s voice, Tommy just stuck to his spot. “No,” he said, curtly.

Feeling something spark inside her, Kat stepped in front of Tommy and Krycek, using her body as a shield, “You can’t shoot them without shooting me.”

Mulder sighed, “I don’t believe this!”

Tanya stood next to Kat, glaring at Mulder, “Believe it.”

Mulder stared at the two girls, both angrily and full of admiration. Hesitantly, Mulder lowered his gun, “Fine, Krycek, you win, but I’ll get information out of you sometime. Your teen parade won’t be with you forever.” With that, Mulder exited the stairwell, leaving the four alone.

Tommy turned around, realizing that he had been holding his breath, and faced Krycek, “You OK?”

Krycek, feeling dizzy, leaned against the wall of the stairwell for support, “I...you guys...he could have killed you.” Memories of Gina came rushing back, and he did his best to keep from crying.

Kat put a hand on his shoulder, “What were we going to do, let him kill you?”

Tanya, looking concerned, put his right hand in hers, “You’re trembling.”

“I’m, um, just a little shaken up,” Krycek explained, feeling sweat moisten his forehead.

Tommy glanced at Krycek, “You look like you’re going to pass out. We should get you back to the room.”

Krycek smiled, faintly, “I guess this ruins your afternoon.”

Kat grinned, “Well, it was exciting. I don’t think my adrenaline has ever been so high.”

“Let’s get you downstairs,” Tanya suggested. The three supported Krycek down to the room.

Reaching it, Krycek slowly crawled onto his cot, still breathing heavily, yet shakily. Kat leaned closer to him, “You need to try and slow your breathing, because you could hyperventilate.”

Krycek looked at her, chuckling, “You really know your stuff.”

Ignoring him, she laid a hand on his chest, “OK: breath in and out, in, out, in, out...” Following Kat’s words, Krycek calmed his breathing, until finally, exhausted, he drifted off to sleep.

Tommy smiled appreciatingly at Kat, “Well, you guys don’t have to stay.”

Tanya shook her head, “Yes we do. Once he’s feeling better I want to know who that guy was in the stairwell.”

Kat frowned, sitting down on Tommy’s cot, “He called the guy Mulder. What I want to know is what could he have done to get Mulder so mad.” The three sat their, thinking of what the relationship could be between their friend and the mysterious man with the gun in the stairwell...and, more importantly, why did Krycek have a gun in the first place?

Adam and Jason were still on the second class balcony, watching as Mulder returned to the third class deck and put his gun back in it’s holster. Jason looked at Adam, “What the hell just happened?” The other boy merely shrugged.

Just then, the two heard their names being called. Turning around, they realize the voice was coming from Trini, who was running up to them. Reaching their position, she took a minute to catch her breath. “Is it true Mulder took out his gun and pursued four people in third class?”

Adam nodded, “He just came back out. I don’t like this, you guys.”

“Did you see that African American girl running from Mulder down there?” Jason asked.

“Yeah, I saw her. Why?”

Jason sighed, “That was Tanya, the girl I was telling you about. Yesterday I spent the whole afternoon with those four.”

“All I know is that if what you said is true, Adam, Mulder is supposed to be undercover. He wouldn’t have drawn his gun unless he found it necessary,” Trini commented.

Jason glanced at her before returning his gaze to Adam, “I’m going to try and catch him so that I can find out what happened.”

“This is going to sound weird, Jason, but be careful around him,” Adam said.

“Yeah,” Trini agreed, “You can never be too careful around someone with a gun.”

Jason merely smirked, “I’ll be able to kick him in the groin faster than he’ll be able to pull out his gun. Believe me, I’ll be all right.” The two watched as Jason left them alone.

Trini smiled, “This is way off topic, but I had a great time last night with you, Adam.”

“I had a great time, too,” Adam said, “too bad there isn’t another dance tonight.”

“Too bad there isn’t another one every night from now until the end of the trip,” Trini added, gazing lovingly into Adam’s eyes.

He stared at her, longingly, “Too bad there isn’t another one every night from now until the end of time.”

That was when they both realized it. It was the third day on board the resurrected Titanic that Adam Park and Trini Kwan realized they weren’t going to be able to leave each other at the end of this trip. They couldn’t, because they had fallen in love. Slowly, they inched closer to each other, lustfully gazing into their eyes.

As they got closer, Trini heard Adam whisper softly in her ear. Giggling lightly, she closed her eyes and waited for the inevitable. Their lips met slowly, starting as a gentle, harmless kiss. It was cautious at first, like a couple kissing after their first date; unsure of what to expect. This, however, quickly changed to a stronger kiss. Cradling Trini in his arms, Adam slowly backed away, cutting off her protests with a simple “shhhhh”.

“Not here,” He breathed. Motioning towards the stairs, Adam grinned, faintly, “I want you, Trini Kwan. Please say you want me.”

Hair blowing in the gentle breeze, Trini nodded, answering him in three simple words, “I want you.”

Holding each other’s hands, the two made their way into the second class hallways, and entered Adam’s room. Locking the door, they sat on Adam’s cot, and, unable to hold back, they began kissing again, this time intensely. Slowly, Adam pulled his black sweater over his head as Trini shrugged off her yellow cardigan. Adam put his hands on Trini’s smooth, silk bra, gradually unfastening it and letting it drop to the floor. From then on, there was no more talking as the room grew hotter.

Krycek awoke in his room with a pounding headache. Slowly raising himself to a sitting position he looked around the cubicle to see Tommy sitting on his cot reading a magazine. Noticing that Krycek was awake, he glanced at him and smiled, “How are you feeling?”

“A little confused, actually,” Krycek admitted rubbing his temple.

Tommy frowned, “About what?”

Krycek laughed wryly at himself, “Everything. Mulder, this whole trip, all of you. It’s amazing how fate works.”

“What do you mean?” Tommy asked, moving across the room and sitting next to Krycek.

The older man sighed, “There’s a lot of things that I haven’t done...right. Most of it I could never tell you, and the stuff I can will, um, definitely give you a new light on me. I don’t know if I want to do that.”

“There was a man chasing you with a gun,” Tommy persisted, “I was given a new light on you just by that. You don’t have to tell me who he was or why he would possibly want to kill you, but I’d hope that you’d trust me.”

“I do trust you,” Krycek said, and it was at that moment that he realized what he said was truth. Closing his eyes, he leaned back against the wall, chuckling lightly, “I trust you. This is the first time in awhile I’ve been able to trust anyone.” Tommy remained quiet as he looked at Krycek, willing to listen. Krycek sighed, “I was engaged to a beautiful woman named Gina. She was my whole life, but I lost her.”

“How?” Tommy inquired.

“She was shot. Gina gave her life for me. A man pointed a gun at me and fired, but she stepped in the way and saved my life. That’s why when all of you stepped in front of me I couldn’t help but think ‘great, now I’m killing three other people’. Sometimes I think I should just kill myself.”

Tommy put his hand on Krycek’s shoulder, “We did what we did because we knew we were doing the right thing.”

Krycek laughed at this, “No, you don’t. You don’t know you did the right thing because you didn’t do the right thing.” He glanced down at his wooden left arm, looking back up at Tommy, “Do you really want to know how I got this?”

“Yes,” Tommy confessed, “I do want to know.”

“It was cut off by Russian natives who wanted to save me from being a test subject. The Russian government performs tests on innocent civilians using a black oil known as the black cancer because they want to test a vaccine that will supposedly repel the oil.” Suddenly Krycek burst into laughter, turning a bright shade of red, “I bet you didn’t expect that.”

Tommy was in shock. Black cancer? Tests? Russians? What the hell was he talking about? “Do you work for the government, Alex?”

Krycek just laughed harder at this, “Russian, American, Hong Kong, and French government. I’m a small part of them all. They all hate me, though. That’s why I’m trying to settle down. I don’t really want to die. I deserve it, but that doesn’t mean I particularly want to die, though I’ve always wondered how it feels to.”

“Why was that Mulder guy chasing you?”

“I killed his father,” Krycek stated, tersely. “I also was a part of killing his partner’s sister, Melissa. Plus, I’ve double-crossed him more times than I’d like to remember. Oh, Tommy, if I could tell you all the horrible things I’ve done. Believe me, I want to stop, but he always pops up, and I can’t let him catch me. No, so I kill more people. I’m going to hell. Wait, I’m in hell already. Earth is hell for me, and I can’t imagine anything worse than this.”

Krycek looked at Tommy to see his reaction only to see that the boy had grown deathly pale. Finally, the younger man stood up and backed away from him, “You’re a murderer. How come...before you seemed so...I--”

“You don’t know how to react to me,” Krycek finished for him. “No one does. Go ahead, Tommy. Tell Mulder where I am. Go tell the authorities. I don’t deserve any of you. I don’t deserve these luxuries. They were meant for the innocent. I’m not innocent. Go ahead and tell everyone where I am. Believe me, I won’t leave.”

Tommy stood up to do just what Krycek had said, until he heard the older man begin to sob. Cringing, he walked over to the cot and sat back down next to him. Krycek looked up at him, puffy-eyed, “Go! I told you to go, Tommy. Why won’t you just let me enjoy my last minutes of freedom in peace?”

“How does it feel to kill someone?” Tommy questioned, ignoring him, “Does it make you feel powerful? Do you get some sort of satisfaction from doing it?”

Krycek, still tearing, finally replied. “No! It feels awful! At the time I may feel powerful, but afterwards you just want to kill yourself. I feel so insignificant. Sometimes I yearn so much for death that I put a gun to my temple and try to force myself to shoot. I can never do it. That’s what I’ve always tried to figure out. Why is it I can kill someone without a second thought and I can’t kill myself?”

Tommy didn’t answer this. Instead, he looked intently at Krycek, “I’m not going to Mulder or the authorities. In fact, I’m not even going to tell Kat and Tanya.”

Krycek looked up at him, clearly stunned, “What!? But I--”

“I’m not going to do it,” Tommy said. “I can’t do it. These past few days you’ve been like a best friend. I really don’t care what you’ve done, but if I hear of you pulling your gun again I seriously will turn you in.”

“I don’t plan on running into Mulder again,” Krycek voiced, “You have my word.” Realizing that this may not be enough, he tried again, “I swear to you on the soul of my lost love, Gina, that I won’t wear my gun again on this trip.” Tommy nodded, and the two sat in silence, wondering what would happen over the next few days.

Kat and Tanya were wandering aimlessly on the third class deck. Kat sighed, “I don’t know if we should have left Tommy alone with Alex. Something about him doesn’t seem right, especially after what happened today.”

“Alex is a really sweet guy,” Tanya argued, “Sure, he may have done something wrong in his life, but all people deserve a second chance. Besides, if he does try anything I have faith that Tommy could whoop his ass in a second. Especially since Alex has that fake arm.”

“True,” Kat said. Looking up at second class deck she spotted Jason coming down the steps, “Hey, Tanya. Look who’s come from second class.”

Tanya spotted Jason and blushed, “If you say anything to him I will kill you.”

Kat laughed, “I would never dream of it.”

Jason walked up to the two, smiling, “Hello ladies. Are you watching the sun set?”

“It’s beautiful,” Tanya said, “I’d never realized how magical the ocean was until getting on this ship. Now it seems like a endless mass of wonders, just like this ship.”

Jason nodded and cleared his throat, “I, um, was just wondering if you two would care to join me for dinner. It shouldn’t be too hard to get you two lovely ladies onto the second class deck.”

Kat shook her head, “You two go ahead. I think I want to be alone for awhile.”

“You sure, Kat?” Tanya questioned.

Kat grinned, “Believe me. I’m sure.”

Tanya nodded, and she and Jason left, hand in hand. Kat returned her gaze to the ocean, breathing in more of the sea air. The multi-colored sky beautifully magnified Kat’s soft, pink, flowing dress. It had been given to her by her late aunt, who had been a middle class woman. Kat treasured the dress greatly, fully appreciating the way in hugged her body and accented her rosy cheeks. Her blue eyes shimmered in the light of the setting sun, and her shining blond hair rolled over her shoulders like a calm rivulet.

Her serenity was broken as two warm hands touched her bare shoulders. She spun around to find herself facing Billy Cranston, who was looking quite handsome in his black and white suit. She smiled and let out a nervous giggle, “I’m sorry, Billy, I didn’t hear you.”

“I saw you looking over the ocean and I couldn’t help but come down to see you.”

“It’s an amazing site,” Kat breathed, “Never in my life have I seen nature’s beauty like this.”

“You yourself are looking quite beautiful,” Billy acknowledged. “There is a full dinner up in the first class section of the ship, and I would be honored by your presence, Katherine.”

“First class!?” Kat exclaimed, “I couldn’t! I mean, I would, but it’s...I’m a third class passenger, Billy. I would never be allowed!”

“Your beauty surpasses any class,” Billy told her, “As I said, it is I who would be honored if you came to the dinner with me.”

Kat smiled, “In that case I would love to, Billy. You are sure no one will mind, right?”

Billy chuckled, “The ladies will be envious of you, Katherine. Believe me, you will be the star of the evening.” He put his arm around Kat and guided her to the steps of third class, leading her further than she could have imagined. Soon, she was on the first class deck. Looking over, she nearly squealed with delight as she saw how high she had come.

Walking through a doorway Katherine found herself in the most beautiful room she had ever seen. Gold coated accessories were everywhere. Fancy paintings were hanging from the walls, and a full length mirror with a golden frame stood at the far end of the room. Sitting atop the heavy-quilted bed was Kimberly, who smiled at her, “I’m glad Billy convinced you to come up. This will be wonderful.”

“I thank you both for the invitation,” Kat said, still overwhelmed by everything.

Kim grinned, “I have the perfect thing to match that dress, which is lovely by the way. Is it yours?”

“It was my aunt’s before she died. When she passed on the dress was left to me.”

Kim nodded and handed Kat a silver necklace with a small pink diamond shaped like a heart at the end. Kat gasped in awe, “It’s amazing! You don’t mind, Kimberly?”

“Of course not,” Kim laughed, “I’ve had that forever. You can keep it if you want.”

“Honestly?” Kat asked. When Kim nodded she grinned thankfully.

Before she could fasten the necklace herself Billy intervened, “Allow me.”

Kat handed him the necklace which he unfastened and slowly placed over her neck. As she felt his warm, soothing hands on her neck she closed her eyes, doing her best to imprint the moment to memory. As she felt Billy’s hands draw away she opened her eyes and turned to face him, “Thanks.”

“The pleasure was all mine,” Billy said, and he meant it. _She is so beautiful_ He thought to himself _I wonder how such an amazing woman ended up in the hellhole of third class._

Km, dressed in a silk white gown grabbed her matching white purse and stood. A string of pearls hung from her neck, and her hair was elegantly put up in a twist, “Shall we go?”

“Lets,” Billy said. He offered Kat his elbow which she took. The three began out like a trio of royalty.

In the second class dining hall Jason and Tanya were eating...something that resembled pasta. The two looked over and saw Mulder sitting in a far corner of the room with no one else. Tanya turned to Jason, “You know him, don’t you.”

“He’s one of my roommates,” Jason said. “Look, I know you want to know about what happened today, but I really don’t know.” When Tanya looked at him, puzzled, Jason smiled, “I saw that you were one of the people running away from him today.”

“Mulder said that Krycek had killed his father, and Krycek seemed to admit that he did,” Tanya explained. “I don’t know what’s going on. Both of them seemed crazy, and now Tommy’s bunking with a murderer! This is all so messed up. Everything was fine before this, and Krycek never did or said anything that made him seem dangerous.”

“Adam, Trini, and I are all being cautious around Mulder. You, Kat, and Tommy should do the same concerning Krycek.”

“We will,” Tanya assured him. “I just feel that, you know, maybe Alex has turned over a new leaf since this whole incident. Right now I still don’t think Alex is a threat.”

Jason frowned, “Better safe than sorry. That goes for both of us.”

Wanting to get on a new topic, Tanya smiled, “I see your food isn’t much better than ours.”

“At least it’s better than the weird stuff we had this morning,” Jason commented. He grinned, “So, are you enjoying this trip on the resurrected ‘Titanic’?”

“Aside from today it’s been wonderful,” Tanya said, “The whole trip has been fantastic. I’ve met great people and had a wonderful time.”

“Same here,” Jason said. He paused for a moment to look Tanya over. Her dark brown curly hair was pulled back. Her yellow tank top hung loosely from her chest, and her black shorts matched her black shoes. Jason, on the other hand, was wearing a black silk shirt and blue jeans. His hair was just barely spiked up, and now looked darker than usual. He took in a deep breath, “Tanya, I don’t know how to say this to you.”

“What is it?” Tanya asked, looking concerned, “Whatever it is I want you to tell me. I can be trusted.”

“When I first saw you,” Jason began. “I didn’t know how I felt. That was why I came up to your group yesterday. You caught my eye.” Tanya blushed at this, but said nothing. Jason continued, “Then, when we were talking yesterday with the others, I realized that my attraction to you was not just physical. We have a lot in common.”

“We do,” Tanya agreed, softly.

Jason rubbed the bridge of his nose, “I’m really sorry, it’s just...I’m not good with feelings, especially since my last girlfriend left me.”

Tanya touched his arm lightly, “I’m sorry, Jason, but I want you to know that you can tell me anything.”

“I-I really like you, Tanya,” Jason stuttered.

Tanya smiled, “I like you too, Jason. You’re charming, handsome, interesting, and you appreciate the same things I do.”

Jason sighed, “That’s not exactly what I mean. What I’m saying is...after this trip...well, it’s been so long since I’ve cared so much about someone, maybe I’ve never cared about anyone as much as you. When Mulder was running after you and everyone else, and I realized that you were in danger I figured out something. After this boat reaches the harbor...I won’t be able to leave you.”

“What do you mean?” Tanya asked.

“I mean that this can’t be the only time we meet, Tanya,” Jason said, “I think I’m in love with you, and I won’t be able to leave you after this is over.”

Tanya stared at him in awe. Did he really just say that he was in love with her? This was her wildest dream come true, “I think I love you too, Jason. I never realized until this moment how I felt about you. What can we do, Jason? I don’t want to leave you either.” She stopped abruptly as she heard how frantic she had become, “I’m sorry, Jason, it’s that I’m so confused, I--”

“Don’t apologize,” Jason pleaded. “We will get through this. I promise that I’ll never leave you. We’ll be together if I have to spend every dime I have to do it.”

“I promise never to leave you either, Jason,” Tanya said. At that moment she couldn’t hold back the tears that had formed in her eyes. As a lone drop slid down her cheek Jason gently brushed it away. They sat that way, gazing into each other’s eyes for what seemed like an eternity.

After the big first class dinner Kimberly had decided to leave Billy and Katherine to their own so that she wouldn’t get in the way. At the dinner she realized that Billy really liked Katherine, and she didn’t want to interfere with that. She leaned over the railing of the first class deck in her white gown and looked over the ocean. The sky was now a deep shade of blue, and stars shined through the misty clouds, making the sea look like little diamonds were floating atop it. Taking her hair out of it’s twist she ran her fingers through it and let her mind wander to Tommy Oliver.

The man both excited and terrified her. He was exciting because he seemed so easygoing; so free. However, it was terrifying for her to admit to herself that she liked him, because she had never been interested in a third class passenger before. Tommy was like a flame. He amazed her; being so fiery and so passionate, and yet she felt if she reached out to touch him she would get burned. “I guess there’s only one way to find out,” she thought to herself.

Walking down the steps leading to the third class rooms, she quickly noticed the differences between herself and third class. Everyone in third class seemed to be in cheap clothes and were mainly unhappy. Looking in a rooms listing found in one of the staff’s office she found Tommy’s room number and walked to it.

Reaching the room, she knocked on it lightly, hearing his voice call, “Who is it?”

“Kimberly Hart,” she said.

She had to wait a few moments before the door was opened. Tommy stood there in a red sweatshirt and blue jeans. His hair was tied up in a ponytail, and she watched, amused, as he regarded her with surprise, “Kimberly? What are you doing down here?”

“I wanted to see you,” Kim admitted. “Can I come in.”

Tommy, clearly shaken, motioned for her to enter, “P-please do.”

Once she walked in the small room she couldn’t stop herself from gasping. It was horrible. The walls were all white, and the two cots in the room had thin mattresses and only one flimsy sheet. On one of the cots was Alex Krycek, who was looking at her, smiling, “It’s nice to see you again, Miss Hart.”

“Same here,” Kim said. Looking at Tommy, she leaned closer to him, “I wanted to talk to you.”

Krycek, getting the message, picked up his leather jacket and slung it over his shoulder, “I’ll leave you two alone for a little bit.”

Tommy looked at him, unable to help his suspicion, “Where are you going?”

“I’m just going to wander around for a little bit. Maybe I’ll stop at the soup kitchen and get some slop.” Tommy smiled and nodded. Krycek nodded to Kim and left the room, leaving the two alone.

Tommy returned his focus to Kim, “Well, what did you want to talk to me about?”

“First