Still nothing to do with Gifted Ones (though I have touched it). You could link this one to the last and say they occurred in same universe. This however is just another exercise.

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*one*

“I missed havin’ passengers.” Kaylee beamed as she flitted about the galley in her floral half apron, the sizzle of freeze dried vegetables and protein filling the air. Her smile stretched the grease smudges on her cheeks as she pushed the vittles around the old wok. “I know the Cap’n isn’t fond’a taking on passengers, but it’s so nice ta meet new people.”

Inara smiled, hanging on the fringes of the galley. “I can understand his suspicions though,” she cradled her mug of tea as a sigh escaped her “since Miranda it is harder to trust others.” Her dark eyes flitted off to the side as Zoe walked in with her air of authority. The Amazon paused, allowed herself a disdainful look to the helm where the new pilot sat, and headed off to make rounds.

“I know, admit I was a tad shy when they first came on board.” Kaylee missed Zoe’s sour face as she was too busy humming and swaying to the songs filling her head. “But we’re gettin’ paid, and they all seem like nice folks, headin’ out ta settle.”

“What’s this?” Simon came jogging up the stairs, dressed nicely yet sensibly. His eyes shimmered at Kaylee as he swooped in. “There you are.” Simon exclaimed as his arms gamely encircled her hips, his movements energetic.

“Simon!” She shrieked, joyfully as his hands squeezed her waist in a wicked way. The smell of him, cologne and linen, filled her nose as she could feel his mouth grinning against her neck.

A laugh rose up from his chest towards her shriek as he smelled the nape of her neck. Oh how she smelled of oxidized metal and oil. It was like the scent of rosebuds in a fait perfume to him though, and he kissed her salty neck. “I’ve been looking all over for you.”

“Ya have?” Kaylee set the spoon aside and leaned back against his chest. He supported her weight easily as he rested his cheek to