The night after Benjamin Malcolm Hoban Mills was born it snowed, heavily and silently, and everyone woke up to a world of white. After a call from Mal, Jayne and Mr Boden dug a pathway to Serenity, and everyone had a hearty breakfast together in the big kitchen. Well, most of the crew. Hank and Zoe were having a quiet meal in their room, enjoying time alone.

“What do you want to do today, honey?” Kaylee asked Bethany, who was almost vibrating in her seat. “You could tidy your room, or there’s your lessons to be had, or –“

“Snowmen!” She couldn’t keep it in any longer. “I want to make snowmen! Lots and lots!”

Mal couldn’t help the grin on his face as he glanced at Freya. They’d not told anyone yet, and didn’t plan on doing so just yet, but seeing Kaylee and Simon’s daughter so enthusiastic about getting cold and wet made his heart soar. “Lots and lots, huh?” he said. “A whole army?”

“Yes!” The little girl bounced on the chair. “Armies of pirates!”

“You’re still on the pirate kick, then.”

“Grr.”

“Maybe the other girls can help,” Kaylee suggested, smiling at her daughter, then looking at Inara.

“I doubt it,” the ex-Companion said, stirring her coffee. “They seem to be more than happy in each other’s company. Except for Hermione.”

“Maybe I should go up and encourage ‘em to come down and join us,” Mal said.

“Don’t you dare! You’d frighten them too much.”

“Me? Hardly think so. That’d be if I sent Frey up to get them.” He winced as his wife kicked him on the ankle.

“Well, I'm going ice-skating,” Simon announced. Everyone, apart from Mal and River, turned to stare at him in surprise.

“You?” Jayne said, then laughed. “Better be careful. You break something, ain't no-one can fix you but you.”

“I won’t break anything.”

“Aw, honey, I'm not so sure –“ Kaylee began.

“I am. I used to skate a lot when I was young, and Mr Boden said the ice on the lake was more than thick enough. He’s even found me an old pair of blades.”

“Might all have to come down and wa