Blue Blood – Chapter Twelve A

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Serenity was not quite over-crowded when she broke atmo, and settled into a comfortable orbit over Argo. Braz Guilford and his family, including George Harwell, were on board, as was Mason Bickford and his family. Several of the plant employees who had come to know Jayne or River were also along.

River was sequestered in the passenger dorms as the preparations were made. The cargo bay had been scrubbed clean, and emptied completely. Several rows of chairs had been set-up for the guests, with folding tables stored nearby for the following reception.

Jayne was in the second shuttle, which he and River would be taking to a small retreat after they were wed, for their honey moon. The retreat was a rather exclusive vacation spot, and their stay had been a wedding gift from George Harwell.

Liam Greggs was on the bridge, having volunteered to keep watch during the festivities. Hollins would likewise be on duty in the engine room. The two had agreed that this was their way of gifting Jayne and River, and the couple had thanked them heartily.

Mal, sporting an ugly cut to his forehead, a swollen lip, and nursing a hand with bruised knuckles, was rehearsing his ‘words’, pacing nervously as he went over them.

Goldie, uninjured, was helping Jayne get ready, as was Simon.

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“Jayne, you can’t wear your tie that way,” Simon said, working to fix the problem. He only had one good eye at the moment, and the going was tedious. He also had a rather strong hangover.

“Simon, if it’s too tight, I can’t breathe!” Jayne objected.

“I can loosen it, once it’s tied,” Simon assured him. Goldie snorted.

“Calm down, kid. Doc’s too afraid of his sister, and Kaylee, to do anything to stop this shindig.”

“I am not afraid of them,” Simon said with all the dignity he could muster. “I am merely cautious of stirring up an argument.” Goldie snorted again, and Jayne chuckled.

“Might a