A/N: Okay, so we're five chapters in and now the plot really takes off - no one has so far guessed at what this story is going to revolve around, so I hope you like what I've cooked up!

Thanks to Leiasky and Kaynara.

Simon shifted a bit in the seat beside Kaylee, again fidgeting with his cufflinks. “Kaylee, do you really think this is the best night for us to be out?” he asked, turning to regard her.

Taking a deep breath so as not to lose her cool, Kaylee turned to him with a placid expression and asked, “What, sweetie?”

Simon could read the tension tightening at the corners of her eyes and he tried to ease it by relaxing. However, the knowledge that his parents would be standing on his doorstep in under ten hours was damaging his normally collected demeanor. “My parents are arriving tomorrow,” he told her by way of explanation.

Squeezing his hand gently, Kaylee inched closer and pressed a kiss to his cheek as the hover rumbled along. “I know, sweetie. But there ain’t nothin’ more we can do to plan for ‘em. You already called to check on their reservation at the hotel an’ I cleaned the apartment from top to bottom.” Holding her hand in front of his face, she pouted slightly and added, “I even got the grimy fingernails to prove it.”

Smiling softly, Simon took the upraised hand in his and kissed each fingertip, before tugging her towards him gently. Placing a light kiss to her warm lips, he whispered, “I’m sorry. I’m trying to relax, I promise.”

Nuzzling her nose into his cheek, Kaylee told him, “Well then, maybe dinner with the Butlers is jus’ the thing you need. You know Eli and Evie always put you in a good mood.”

Resting his cheek against her hair, Simon released one more heavy sigh and then squeezed her close. “You’re right. A nice quiet night is just what I need.”

In their current position, Simon missed the flash of concern in Kaylee’s eyes at his statement.