Act V – Whitefall

“Whitefall.”

“Mmn.”

“Maybe she won’t be there.”

“You think?”

“No, sir.”

“The fact that she hasn’t shot me the last coupla times we dealt just makes me all kinds of nervous. Feels like it’s overdue somehow.”

“I’d’ve thought she’d be too busy laughing, sir.”

“You know, the septic vat ain't been emptied this week. And with more people on board –“

“I'm sure she’ll be appreciating the fine performance too much, sir.”

“Better.”

Mal looked out at the stars and the large moon getting larger. “Shouldn’t your fiancé be up here?”

Zoe shrugged a little. “He’s putting Ben down for his nap.”

“Only I could land, but I figure why have a monkey and dance yourself.”

“I’m sure he’s going to be thrilled you think that much of him.”

“I could still order you to be a fairy, you know.” There was a longish pause as the moon got closer. “And if he ain't up here in two seconds I'm not sure our passengers’ll be too happy getting splattered all over the –“

“I'm here, I’m here,” Hank said, running up the steps and sliding into the pilot’s chair. He flipped a couple of switches and adjusted their trajectory by a degree. “Oddly enough, I can’t be in two places at once.”

“Your place is up here,” Mal said firmly.

“Just ‘cause you’re worried about what Patience is gonna say about you being in a dress –“

“Land my damn boat,” Mal ordered, and stalked off the bridge.

“He’s in a mood, ain't he?” Hank smiled up at Zoe.

“We’ve tended to steer clear of Whitefall, or haven’t you noticed?”

He reached out and ran his hand over her backside. “I've noticed a lot of things.”

“And I'm not sure I’ve forgiven you for breaking your word.”

Hank started guiltily. “My word?”

“You told me you wouldn’t gamble.”

“Not really gambling, though. Not when I win.”

“And then get beaten up.” She shook her head at him. “How are we supposed to get married if you get yourself killed?”

Suddenly he felt a surge of anger. “Married? You won’t even name the damn