Mal wandered back to the bridge. His mind racing with theories as to what was going on with River.

He was staring out at the stars when Zoe relieved him early that morning.

Biding her goodnight, he made his way to his bunk to catch at least a few hours sleep. Little did he know his slumber would be interrupted by dreams of River, himself and her new toy engaging in erotic play.

* * * * *

Jayne awoke especially early the next day. He was determined to find out what River’s package contained and planned on spendin’ the day in the cargo bay working out in order to catch her opening the box.

Grabbing a spare towel and throwing it over his shoulders, he whistled the tune of an old ditty he’d learned at his pa’s knee as he made his way to his weight bench.

He was so pleased with himself for his cunning plan, he didn’t notice the opened crate until he was upon it.

“Gorrammit,” he shouted as he kicked the side in frustration.

Jayne glared at the packing material in annoyance, when he realized that she’d obviously claimed her prize whilst they slept and had probably stowed it in her room.

A crafty smile graced his face as he headed toward the dorms.

With a stealthy grace, uncommon for a man his size and weight, he snuck cautiously toward her room.

Sliding the door open carefully, he peered anxiously into the darkened room. To his disappointment, he spied nothing that looked like it was big enough to have come from the box.

Sighing in resignation, he turned and made his way toward the kitchen. He might as well have breakfast as there weren’t a reason to hand in the cargo bay all day.

Lying in her bunk, River smiled smugly as she felt Jayne leave. Her hiding place would only hold out for so long, so she hastily dressed and moved her toy to a more secure location in her room.

River grinned as she entered the kitchen after stopping by the bridge to ensure that the course was set. She could tell by the frowns and disgruntled expressions on everyone’s face that Jayne had informe