At dinner the major topic of conversation among those seated was of Zoe’s baby. Only River had decided to stay in her room.

“I still don’t see why you were scared of telling us,” Kaylee said.

“Not scared.” Zoe looked around the table. “There was no fear involved.”

“Then why didn’t you?” The young mechanic shook her head. “We’re family, Zoe. You know we’d be there for you.”

“But with your … problems …”

Kaylee smiled. “It’s okay. Really.” She glanced down at her daughter, industriously playing with her food, then up at her husband. “I got everything I want.” She went back to Zoe. “So, come on, ‘fess up. Why’d you not tell the Cap?”

Zoe didn’t get embarrassed. It wasn’t in her nature, and with her dark colouring it was difficult to see if she was blushing. But from the way she dropped her head a little … “I’ve always known who I am. Always. Only now, this baby … well, it changes that.”

“No it don’t.” Kaylee was firm. “Maybe adds something. But you’re still Zoe. Course, once it’s born your brain turns to mush, but that’s inevitable.”

“Thanks,” Zoe said dryly.

“So, boy or girl?”

Serenity’s first mate shrugged. “We don’t know.”

“I can tell you,” Simon said. “If you want.”

“Has it ever occurred to anyone how … limiting it is, just having the two sexes?” Hank asked, then realised everyone was looking at him. “Well it is.”

“That still gives you three combinations,” Inara pointed out.

“Yeah, but only one that can procreate.”

“You been reading those books again?” Mal asked good-naturedly.

“And technically it is possible for a same-sex couple to have a child,” Simon put in. “It’s just a case of taking a cell and removing the -”

“Honey?” Kaylee interrupted. “Not while we’re eating.”

He was surprised. She wasn’t usually squeamish when it came to - then he realised what she was concerned about. Bethany was sitting perfectly still, staring at the food on her plate.

”Of course,” he said. Except it was too late.

“Daddy, where do babies come fr