Story: Rumor Has It, Part 4 of the Early On SeriesAuthor: sunflowerseedsandscienceRating: MASite link: https://archiveofourown.org/series/553345Read by: AnnieXFlowers

Summary:Part 1: The biggest clue, Scully thinks, as she lights one of the thick pillar candles on the dresser and begins to prepare for a bath, lies in her reaction to Ethan's proposal. Part 2: "We could at least dry out somewhere until a more reasonable hour," says Scully. "How about we grab another room at the motel, just one- not like that, Mulder!"Part 3: "I'm not so sure you and me alone in your apartment is the best idea just now, Scully," he says, his voice soft.Part 4: When Mulder finally meets Ethan Minette, it is not under the most ideal of circumstances.Part 5: Mulder is fine, she's fine, and as soon as this storm is over, they'll get out of here.Part 6: "So who are you leaning on, Scully?" asks Mulder gently.Part 7: "I'm so sorry about your father, Dana," he murmurs in her ear, rubbing her back in gentle circles.Part 8: Scully reaches her breaking point.Part 9: When their lips meet this time, it's different than all the kisses they've shared before.Part 10: Mulder stops himself, just outside of the car, and hangs his head, guilt and shame assaulting him in equal measure.

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