Kaylee and Inara had been planning the theme for Wash's birthday months in advance. Kaylee even figured out how to bake a dinosaur-shaped cake. As part of the dino theme, they had cajoled the rest of the crew into each buying Wash a dinosaur toy as his present. Even Mal, despite loud grumblings about his bridge being turned into a kiddie playland, agreed to the plan.

River insisted that her present be opened last.

"River, honey, I think Wash has figured out what it will be," Zoe said.

"Doesn't matter. Gotta be last!"

It was easier to just give in than to kick up a fuss, so River's gift was opened last. She presented a beautifully wrapped yellow package.

"Gosh, River, I wonder what this could *possibly* be," Wash played along.

"You'll see!"

After making a big to-do about opening the gift, Wash stared down at a little stuffed toy duck. Lurid yellow with an equally lurid orange beak. Definitely not a dinosaur.

"Uhh, thank you, River. Not quite in theme, but he can keep the dinos company."

River looked suddenly very serious.

"Yes. It's very important he keep you company on the bridge. He's to remind you."

"Ah, I see. What is it he needs to remind me of?"

River threw Wash a look that only 17-year-old scary genius girls can give when they have to deal with adults who don't understand.

"To duck, silly."