Mulder curled up next to Mike and sighed. “Happy New Year, love.”

Mike smiled brightly and ran his fingers through his husband’s sweat-dampened hair. “That was one hell of a New Year’s kiss.”

“Kiss? I thought we were having mind-blowing sex when the ball hit the streets. 2004 is going to be one fantastic year.”

“I’ll say.” The couple kissed. “And our son decided to sleep through. hallelujah!”

“Are you sure you don’t mind missing out on the partying?” Mulder asked with concern.

“Ha! Believe me, this is the only party I need. You, me, and Phil down the hall.”

“So what’s your New Year’s resolution going to be?” Mulder stroked Mike’s full lips. Mike nipped them playfully.

“I don’t have any. I have everything I ever wanted.”

“Way to blow a guy away. God, I love you.” He paused in thought. “Speaking of blowing...?”

They laughed, and Mike proceeded to blow Mulder’s mind.

After, Mike fell asleep, and Mulder was enjoying the afterglow. Something made him turn his head, and he saw Alex Krycek walk out of the shadows. He was surprised to see a thoughtful expression on the wraith’s face.

“What’s the matter, Krycek? Lost your best buddy?”

“In a way.” He paused and searched the FBI man’s face. “I just got word. I’ve earned my second chance. I’m being reborn.”

“Well,” said Mulder, nonplused. “I guess this is goodby, then. We won’t be seeing each other again.”

“Not like this.”

Mulder frowned. “What does that mean?”

Krycek smiled, and he bent over to whisper something in Mulder’s ear. He vanished into the shadows, just as his words registered in Mulder’s mind.

“What do you mean, I should have checked the expiration date on that box of condoms!”

End

Oh my!