TITLE: "END GAME"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: Mal. Jayne. Crew.

RATING: PG-13. **CONCLUSION**

STATUS: Sequel to "MILLION SQUARE JOB"

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

WEBSITE: None. All Firefly stories archived at Fireflyfans.net

SUMMARY: "Saffron discovers the cost of upsetting the wrong

people. Gradually life gets back to normal on Serenity but with

the crew somewhat subdued and grateful for their narrow escape."

The usual disclaimers apply. The characters and 'Firefly'

are the property and gift of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.

No infringement of copyright is intended.

"END GAME"

"Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

It was several days before Simon felt confident enough to stop sleeping in the infirmary. The rest of the crew had taken it in turns to relieve him so he could go to his bed but conscientious doctor that he was he couldn't rest unless he could hear the steady beat of the heart monitor and see for himself that the Captain's recovery was continuing on track. Zoe gave up trying to reason with the doctor only too aware of how much they already owed to his dedication and skill. The Captain would surely have died had anyone but Simon been there to tend him and just thinking about it made the first mate go cold through to her marrow. Inara gave Zoe a nod and changed places with her, pausing to glance across at Simon while his face was averted.

Inara watched as Simon finished tidying up and took the seat on the other side of the Captain's bed while Zoe left to check on Wash. The Companion noticed the dark bruises under Simon's eyes from lack of sleep. Before she could speak the Captain stirred. Inara watched the long eyelashes fan the Captain's cheeks as he blinked slowly, eyes adjusting sluggishly to the harsh infirmary lights. She squeezed his hand gently but Mal was not looking at