#doggett & reyes had big fat crushes on scully

[deathsbestgirl]

i understand why people don't think doggett was in love with scully or had feelings for her, and that people don't want to see it that way.

however...i think he did have feelings for her. but they weren't what mattered. he empathized with her. losing the father of her child, her partner (eventually her son). and he just cared about her, wanted to be there for her. he valued scully as a person, respected her as an agent, doctor & scientist, believed her as partners. he hoped like hell they would find mulder alive but never believed they would.

the same position scully was in with mulder for seven years. playing the skeptic to her believer, never pushing too hard after within/without. practically begging her to protect herself when mulder does come back but accepting her choice, and just being there in case she needs him and giving her space when she doesn't.

and i just think there's something to be said about a man who can handle rejection and not take it out on her or her partner. who embraces the friendship/relationship she offers. who moves on and doesn't harbor resentment. who can still work with her and respects her deeply.

i don't think they were feelings that endured, but i think they were there.