A/N: When I began writing this, it was going to be a lengthy one shot about Kaylee and Simon sharing a cup of tea every morning. Now, it's in five, possibly six parts, and includes missing moments from the series. It's a little ambitious for me,not least because this is the first time I've posted a chapter when the full story isn't entirely finished. Let's just say I am familiar with my own procrasternation skills. Anyone. Part Two hopefully won't be long... As always, comments are very much appreciated. So. Yeah. Enjoy.

Oh, yeah, this chapter refers to events in Safe

Cup of Tea – Part One

Kaylee flopped into her hammock with a weary sigh, and began to wipe her greasy hands on a once clean rag. By the rumbling in her stomach, she could tell it was almost eleven o clock. As she did most days, she got to her feet and left the engine room, glancing around the empty galley as she entered. No one was ever around at this time, so soon after breakfast and so near to lunchtime. Kaylee liked it; a moment to herself.

She poured herself a cup of tea and sat at the table, stirring it absently. She was helping herself to a biscuit when footsteps behind her caused her to turn in surprise. When she saw who had arrived, she beamed.

“Simon,” she greeted him warmly. He smiled in return, a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes, she noticed.

“Cup of tea?” The words were out of her mouth before she realised it.

He looked marginally surprised, but nodded his thanks. He took a seat as she poured tea into another mug and pushed it towards him. She watched as he added a lump of sugar distractedly and took a sip.

“This is good,” he told her appreciatively. He wanted to say something about how she was the only one on this boat who could make a decent cup of tea. He even felt a small urge to thank her; she was the only one on this boat who treated him with anything other than cold resentment. But he didn’t say anything.

“Somethin’ wrong?” she asked, off the distant look on his face.

He shook