TITLE: "BODY BLOW"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: No specific pairing.

RATING: PG-13.

STATUS: Sequel to "SUGAR AND SPICE".

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

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

SUMMARY: "Time passes, little Hope is growing up and that

sets Zoe to thinking."

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.

"BODY BLOW"

"Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

Seven years. Had it really been so long? The Captain gazed down from the catwalk, his eyes following the antics of little Hope as she ducked out of the reach of Kaylee's flapping hands, the bright red silk ribbon missing its' mark again and again. On the other side of Hope sat River, cross legged and laughing, her eyes dancing with mirth. Hope let Kaylee get close again, her face all angelic: the picture of youthful innocence. Only when Kaylee's hand shot out to take up those long loose curls did her head snap out of reach in a practised arc, his mechanic huffing and rocking back on her heels as the child danced away, mouth turned down in a rare sign of frustrated displeasure only Kaylee was not aiming her disapproval at Hope.

"Thought you was helpin'?"

River's eyes sparkled back. "I am."

"Huh, don't see no helpin' here."

River smiled softly. "She doesn't like her hair bound."

The mechanic shot her friend a hurt look. "She tell you that?"

"Doesn't have to. She's a free spirit."

"Yeah but, this is a pretty ribbon. See, Hope? Inara got it 'specially for me."

The light musical voice was as full of stubborn as any he had ever heard. "Then you wear it, Aunty K."

Mal smothered a laugh and sipped at his mug of tea, the corners of his eyes crinkled in amusement. He felt