Ubiquitous Disclaimer: Not my 'verse, but I love it and want to see more of it!

Chapter 1

Zoe had always been a survivor. She survived serenity valley and the aftermath of Miranda. She roamed through Serenity most days with her face set in a mask of stone as she carried within an iron resolve to fulfill a promise she made to herself and her late husband. She would survive today and tomorrow until she could learn how to live again. As she entered the cargo bay via the galley, sweet laughter that could only belong to Kaylee entered her ears. She smiled sadly as she leaned over the catwalk's railing and took in the curious scene below her.

Simon and Kaylee casually lounged in the front two seats of the hovermule, holding a bowl of popcorn between them. Kaylee had temporarily 'upgraded' the mule to house a video projector which was currently projecting a movie featuring cowboys and robots onto a bed sheet hanging five feet in front of the couple. The film itself was largely irrelevant as Simon and Kaylee spent most of their time and attention on each other.

Kaylee snuggled closer to Simon and rested her head on his shoulder as she said, "I know this ain't no opera, but I wanted ya to take me on a date."

Simon laughed, unable to contain his smile if he wanted to and said, "Not that I'm complaining, but wouldn't that make it my responsibility to plan our evening?"

Kaylee sat up to face him and said, "Simon Tam, I have waited too long for this," as she playfully poked him in the chest. "You think I'd go 'n ruin it by placin' you in charge? Now pay attention Mr. Top Three Percent and learn how to treat a lady."

If he had not failed so spectacularly in the past, Simon might have been offended by that statement. Well, maybe if it came from someone other than Kaylee he amended in his thoughts. Simon responded in a mock serious tone "I'm trying Kaylee, I really am… it's just… the robots… they don't make any sense to me."

Kaylee rolled her eyes and said "Ya don't take a girl to a drive in to watch the