Disclaimer: Joss, Fox, Universal Own em’. I’m just playing. No money being made.

This story is set fifteen years into the future from the story I have written called “Big Blue”

AN:

Cast of characters:

Parents:

Malcolm Reynolds 51

Inara Serra-Reynolds 44

Allan Bryant 68

Zoë Bryant 48

Simon Tam 43

Kaylee Tam 40

Jayne Cobb 52

River Cobb 36

Kids:

Jefferson (Jeff) Reynolds 15

Emma Reynolds 10

Sara Bryant 14

Rebecca Tam 15

John (Jack) Tam 11

Rachel Cobb 8

Jesse Cobb 6

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Heritage-Chapter Fourteen

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Allan slept fitfully that night. Even with the smoother Simon had given him. He tossed and turned all night. Waking at five, Allan made his way to the galley for coffee.

As he started the machine, he heard a noise behind him. Turning, he saw his wife standing in the entry, dressed in a robe.

“Up kinda early,” Zoë stated.

“Can't sleep,” Allan mumbled.

“Me either,” Zoë admitted as she entered the room. She moved to her husband's side and wrapped her arms around him.

“I hope this works.”

“It will baby,” Zoë said.

“How do you know?”

“Cause the Captain didn't plan it.”

Allan snorted in amusement. This soon led to a real laugh.

“Thanks hon... I needed that.”

“So did I,” Zoë said with a smile.

“Come on, You can help me make breakfast since I'm already up.”

XXXXXXXXXX

The crew, kids and guests crowded around the table in the galley. The only reminder that all was not normal was Sara's empty chair next to Zoë. Allan was doing his best to keep a positive attitude this morning. River gave him a quiet smile.

“Sara's sleeping,” Rachel said quietly.

“You can feel her short stub?” Jayne asked his daughter.

“She's close... But I'm not sure where...” the eight year old suddenly began to cry. Jayne quickly grabbed his little girl and held her close.

“Shhh, it's okay Rachel girl,” Jayne whispered.

“I want her here!” Rachel wailed. It had been hard on her the last few days as she could feel her cousin's fear.