For the last few days the Alexander estate had been a storm of activity with preparations for the wedding. Currently, Kaylee was in town with Inara and River getting fitted for dresses, so the men were left getting the house in order.

“You ready for the big day?” William asked Simon as they were setting the benches in place in the yard.

“I’m a bit nervous, but I couldn’t be happier.”

“Food better be good, that’s all I care about.” Jayne said as he came up to help.

“Nice to see you have your priorities, Jayne.” William joked. “And the food’s all being prepared by Kara, so it’ll be more than adequate for you.”

“Where’s she gotten off to anyway?” Jayne scanned the horizon. “I ain’t got to spend more’n a minute with her since we arrived.”

“She and Rya went to Amesbury to pick up Rya’s mother.” William and Simon finished placing the final bench. “She’s hoping to be back tonight sometime. By the way,” William added, “where’s Mal?”

“In town with Geoffrey, getting the food for the party.” Simon said as they made their way back the house. “They should be back within the hour.”

“Well then,” William said, opening the door, “other than our fittings tomorrow, we’re all but done.”

The three of them all took a few minutes to relax in the sitting room, Jayne pouring himself a drink. Things were going well, which worried William. He was waiting for the other shoe to drop.

~~~

Things had settled down some now that most of the preparations were complete. William took the break in excitement to walk the grounds. The sun was just setting over the hills, and the strong scents of summer permeated the air.

He came to the stables and let himself in. The horses were intrigued by the presence of someone else, but soon lost interest. William walked up to the nearest horse and ran his hand through it’s main. The horse whinnied in approval and nuzzled up against William’s chest. He decided then that he’d go for a ride.

While he was securing the saddle on the horse, whom William