TITLE: "TRUST"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: RIVER/MAL.

RATING: PG-13.

STATUS: New. SEQUEL to "HIDDEN"

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

WEBSITE: http://carlajane.50megs.com/Ali00.html

SUMMARY: "The Captain decides to take his brother's advice knowing the fallout could make or break them. Meanwhile a prodigal is about to return."

The usual disclaimers apply. The characters and 'Firefly'

are the property and gift of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.

No infringement of copyright is intended.

"TRUST"

A "Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

Simon was feeling a mite frustrated but River insisted so he stayed put even though his whole body was itching to be in motion. It had been well over an hour and he wanted to check on his patient. They were in the commons area sitting on the couch. River sat with her legs folded under her. When she looked at him her eyes were large and almost luminious. Pepper and his men had thankfully gone with Jayne down to the cargo bay taking it in turn to lift weights and get better acquainted. More at ease with the mercenary than the rest of Serenity's diverse crew. "Need more time."

"River.."

She shook her head, cutting him off. Not joy, not sorrow, but something else in the depths of those eyes. "Too long apart, Simon."

He swallowed slowly, forced himself not to be impatient. She gave him a gloriously sweet smile by way of recompense and he relaxed. "I still can't quite believe it."

"Not what it seems but better."

He blinked. Not understanding either her words or the look on her face. "*Shenme*?"

Her smile was sad. Whether for his lack of intuition or something else he could not tell. "Come on Simon," She unfolded herself with grace and reached for his hand. "Ready now."

When they reached the infirmary the door was open. The Captain looked round and gave Simon a nod