TITLE: "THE DEVIL YOU DON'T"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: Canon pairings

RATING: G.

STATUS: SEQUEL to "THE DEVIL YOU KNOW"

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

WEBSITE: http://unilelu.net/Alison/Ali00.html

SUMMARY: "Shepherd Book finds out more than he wanted

to know. A simple job becomes all manner of complicated."

The usual disclaimers apply. The characters and 'Firefly'

are the property and gift of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.

No infringement of copyright is intended.

"THE DEVIL YOU DON'T"

"Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

*Don't speak, don't speak, don't speak*

Book was so surprised he almost looked up.

*Don't look, don't look, don't look*

Unbeknownst to the Shepherd, River Tam was lying face down on the grating above his head. Book was walking towards the infirmary to speak to Inara just as the furious Companion made a rapid exit. Distracted by the sudden intrusion of River's thoughts inside his head, he hesitated and the moment was lost. Inara disappeared into her shuttle. The resounding sound of the door being locked telegraphing her desire to be left alone. Puzzled, Book took a moment to consider what to do. Whether to call in and check on Casey or try to find out what was wrong with Inara. Another notion then niggled at the back of his mind. What was River up to and why was she hiding? And how did she manage to get inside his head?

*Not hiding. See more when out of sight. Hear better too*

The sudden coherence startled him. Book opened his mouth to call out to the girl, find out what was behind her odd behaviour. Before he could do so a tumble of words pressed into his mind and stilled his tongue.

*Don't speak, don't speak, don't speak*

With an effort, Book concentrated on thinking his reply. *River, calm down. I won't say anything, dong ma?*

Relief wash