Simon watched the hover slide out into the sunlight, and held his anger in check. Why won’t he listen? He doesn’t have responsibility for River. I do. She’s my sister. I left everything for her, all that I’d worked for, but he can’t see that. Just that she’s … useful.

He still felt anxious every time Mal took her on a job. From the first time, when they were on Lilac, right to now, he worried about her. She’s my sister, and I'm right to worry. He sighed. Except that it wasn’t just that.

I’ll be eighteen in a few months, that’s what she’d said. A woman.

He’d been firm with her. You’re not a woman, River. You’re a girl.

She’d stuck her tongue out at him and flounced away. It didn’t matter that she was learning to fly Serenity so well that Mal was considering letting her do it alone now. She’s my sister.

A noise up and behind him made him take a slow breath. Kaylee and Inara. He knew they were watching him, could feel their eyes on his back. Why did I let myself fall for her? What was it that finally made me tell her how I’ve felt for so long? Oh, yes, Reavers.

They were talking. Their hushed tones reached him, and he was sure he heard Kaylee sigh. I’d know that sound anywhere. She’s done it so much when I’m being … me. Just how long can a man live with his foot in his mouth? Maybe there’s some research on the Cortex about it …

He turned and looked up. Inara had gone, and only Kaylee remained, gazing down at him. “Are you all right?”

“Shiny,” she said, her beautiful face finding its cheery visage from somewhere. “They won’t be long.”

“No, I know.” As long as Mal doesn’t do anything stupid, like putting my sister at risk.

“Though might be long enough.”

What is she suggesting? No, best not think of … damn. “Kaywinnet Lee Frye, are you –“

“No, not really.” She giggled and his heart flipped. “I kinda got work to do. But if you want to come and give me a hand …”

He glanced