Inferno – Chapter Five

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Zoe prowled through the ship, lost in her thoughts. She didn’t know what her problem was lately. She’d never been one to loose control of her emotions, something she’d always been proud of.

But lately she’d not been that good at it.

True, as Goldie had pointed out, they had all been under enormous stress of late. She’d allowed it to intrude into her personal life, and now she’d allowed it to make a mess of her professional life as well.

Zoe knew she had to figure out what the problem was, and correct it. Things had to get back to normal, and the sooner the better. They were only a day or so out of Aberdeen. She needed this solved before they hit the ground there. If Jayne’s information was right, then their problems would be that much worse, once on the scene. She would need a clear head to deal with whatever they might find.

Suddenly, she wondered what Mal’s reaction would be when he learned of Jayne’s departure. True, Mal was as wary of the big man as she was, but he’d also come to depend on Jayne. Just as everyone else had.

At that thought, she wondered how his leaving would affect the rest of the crew. Especially River. The little pilot hadn’t spoken of the matter, but Zoe could tell she was distressed. And Kaylee would probably be upset.

As she entered the kitchen, she was startled to see Jayne at the counter, obviously preparing a meal. He looked up as she came into the galley, and nodded.

“Hey, Zoe,” he said. His voice was friendly, she noted. Not forced, either.

“Jayne,” Zoe nodded back. “Didn’t think anyone else was up.”

“River had a nightmare,” Jayne said quietly. “Think the closer we get to Aberdeen, the worse it gets. Thought I’d make her a snack, see if she could get back to sleep.” Zoe was touched by the big man’s gentle ministrations to his new bride.

“That’s awfully nice of you, Jayne,” Zoe offered, and saw him tense, slightly.

“Yeah, well,” he replied a little too casually,