Man of Honor?

by: Jerrie L. Hooper

Stuff: All disclaimers apply. I don’t own them. I own very little of anything. I wasn’t going to post this until I had finished another fic I was working on (Buffy related) but couldn’t wait. Un-betaed and not exactly the ending I wanted but hey, nothing’s perfect.

River sat on the catwalk, her legs dangling over the edge while her arms looped around the rail. Her eyes were on Jayne and Book, watching the methodical repetitions of their workout.

Book and Jayne had grown accustomed to her frequent presence and paid no attention.

Book was uncharacteristically searching for words as they filled the time on their way to help Inara's friends.

Jayne's eagerness to "help" after learning that their clients were residents of a brothel, lead Book to believe that Jayne would be taking advantage of the services available.

"Jayne, sometimes people are put into positions where they have no choice on some of the things they have to do to survive. It is unfortunate that some are willing to take advantage of those circumstances."

"Huh?" Jayne continued lifting, but now had a crease between his brows expressing his puzzlement.

Book gathered his patience. He had tried to broach this subject with Jayne in the past, but apparently subtlety was lost on the mercenary.

"Jayne, do you really feel right paying these women for the use of their bodies?"

"Payin' 'em?!? I thought since we was helpin' out we'd get the sexin' for free? Ya know, kinda like payment."

"But do you think you should take advantage of their situation?"

"Way I figure it, they already got people takin' 'vantage and not doin' 'em any kindness while they're at it. Least we ain't makin' the situation worse."

"That is yet to be seen," said Book wryly before continuing, "Have you ever thought of going the traditional route - courting a girl, getting married. There are advantages to that, you know. Companionship, a helpmate..." when Book saw that Jayne was looking unimpressed