Jayne watched as Hank manoeuvred the old mule back on board and thumped the ramp control. As it groaned closed behind him, shutting out the cold Lancaster air, he hitched the pile of clothing he had in his arms a little more firmly to his chest and headed for the infirmary.

“Jayne?” Zoe’s voice stopped him. “Everything okay?” She climbed from the back of the mule, her hand resting lightly on Hank’s shoulder.

“Fine.”

“Only you’ve got a face like thunder, and if you’re planning on taking it out on someone –“

“Better be leaving, hadn’t we?” Jayne interrupted, not looking at her. “Case someone puts two and two together and makes more’n four.”

“That was the plan.” She sounded almost surprised that he’d think of it.

“Then we’ve all got something to do, ain't we?” He didn’t wait for her to answer. Stepping through the door into the common area, though, he paused. Mal had just climbed down the last of the stairs, and was heading purposefully for the infirmary. Jayne sighed.

“You naked under there?” Mal asked, slightly disconcerted, looking at the young psychic on the medbed as he stepped into the room. Simon was engaged in preparing a hypo.

“Jayne’s getting me some clothes,” River said, pulling the blanket a little closer. “He’s outside now.”

“Well, he’s gonna have to wait until I’ve finished with you.”

Simon stirred. “Mal –“

“No, doc. This time she’s not running. And I’m done playing nice.” He crossed his arms.

The doctor looked from his captain to his sister, then put the hypo down on the counter. “Just don’t … draw too much blood.”

“Wasn’t planning on hurting her,” Mal assured him.

“I wasn't speaking to you.” Simon walked towards the door.

“Simon …” River looked at him, pleading with him to stay.

“Sorry, mei-mei . You got yourself into this. You need to face up to it.” He stepped out of the infirmary and closed the door.

Mal took a deep breath, glaring at River. “What the hell did you think you were doing?”

She stuck out her chin, defia