What Still Could Be
by 2x2
Rating: PG
Word Count: approx. 515
Spoilers: one allusion to a deleted scene from the Movie
Characters/Pairing: Mal/Inara
Notes: Happy Ending-ish Sequel to for all those who begged for it ;o) I didn't manage to get giggling in there, but I touched on the failed proposal sorta and I got a kiss in there, so, hopefully this satisfies :o)
The docks were depressingly empty as Inara slowly made her way to where the passenger shuttle sat, waiting to take her back to her life. Sounds of merriment trailed after her, music, laughter and warm light spilling from the hall she’d left behind.
It hurt to look back.
She quickened her pace, even now feeling the pull of that world, urging her to return. All the more reason to leave now, tonight, she knew. Otherwise—
“Inara.”
Oh no. Her breath caught, her feet stumbling to a stop. Traitors. She closed her eyes, willing him to just let her go, knowing he never would. She sighed. “Must we always do this Mal?” she asked wearily, turning to face him.
“’You really just gonna leave?” he retorted angrily, stepping into her space.
“What else am I supposed to do?” she hissed through clenched teeth, refusing to back away.
“Stay,” he whispered, the anger leaving him in a desperate plea, his hand searching out hers entreatingly.
She felt her chest grow tight. Oh no. “Mal…” She pulled her hand away and shook her head in hopeless exasperation, turning for the shuttle.
“Inara!” He caught her wrist, pulling her back to him, his eyes imploring. “You asked me once why I didn’t stop you. Seems to me that meant you wanted me to.”
“That was a long time ago. Mal,” she said beseechingly. “It’s too late for the might-have-beens.”
“Ain’t interested in what might have been,” he said stubbornly, his hand squeezing hers. “‘s what still could be that matters. Back then I weren’t brave
The two of them return for the reception, because it's so sad that Inara felt like she couldn't stay and celebrate with her little bandit family. Next time, Inara makes MAL leave. Anyway. They get back, and they dance. And Kaylee squeals and snaps a picture.
And yes, that's exactly what they do *nods* with Kaylee taking the picture. Inara has looked back at that picture many, many times when she's needed to :o)
I'll try to scrape up something today. Zee Offeez is being extremely slow.
@Katesfriend: Too depressed to comment? Wow. But that's a great comment in and of itself :oD At least, it is to me :oD Glad this one made up for it though, thanks :o)
@mincingbeast: she could, t'is true, and I know that might have made for a happy ending for *you* ;oP You'll just have to read the first part and treat this one as optional. Isn't that better? ;oD
@Jane0904: Thank you :o) Is there such a thing as a relationship that *is* all sweetness and light? *G* And, more importantly, would we *really* want to read about it? *G* Give me the angst, anyday ;oD
@AgentRouka: Still bleak, huh. Hmmm, but... don't codependent, unhealthy together people deserve some happiness too? ;o) At least it made you feel a bit better... but... let me think on it, I may come up with a little more for you ;o) Also, yay! Fic!!
I went and finished my bribery. Find it here or at lj. And please, take full responsibility, because I'm blaming it on you. ^_^
Or, if you want something other than more of this one (i.e. a new sort of prompty prompt) I have several unclaimed letters in an A to Z meme post on my LJ, you could pick a couple letters and prompts (and even fandoms *gasp* if you want to choose something from my list other than firefly) or I can just continue on with this one merrily... I'm easy ;o>
Will I get more drabbles if I write more too??? :oDDDD
I've been wondering what would get these two out of this dynamic. And of course it's: kids. They wouldn't have the time or energy for the endless to and fro. What would it take for a pregnancy sequel? Or a 'we haven't been out for two years' sequel? :)
The standard rate seems to be drabbles in return, so.... how about "indiscreet endeavor" Mal/Inara of course ;o) and I'll see what I can do :oD
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