Chapter 12

River was startled by a noise only she could hear. She heard Simon, as if he were right behind her, but something was wrong. She knew he was not really right behind her. That was preposterous considering he was approximately 31.385 meters away and down one level in the infirmary, though, that wasn’t what was wrong.

“River,” Kaylee asked with open concern, “are you alright?”

Kaylee’s concern would normally be appreciated, but it was colored with much fear and insecurity concerning her brother. Kaylee’s emotions always seemed to broadcast the most powerfully of the crew. After a rough day, River found the current effects especially disorienting. River shook her head in an attempt to clear it.

Kaylee began, “No? It’ll be okay, let me just get Si-“

“No!” River stated emphatically, “Not ready. Can’t see him.”

“River, he’s your brother. He loves you and only wants to help-“

“Stay away from him!” River shouted. Why can’t she understand?

“River...” Kaylee began fearfully as she slowly shifted towards the engine room door, “I really think we should talk to Simon about this.”

“Not ready,” River repeated. Why is she afraid of me? River could feel the tears coming that could not be stopped without a functioning amygdala. “Stay away from Simon. Serenity needs you more,” River said as she ran towards the infirmary.

“Don’t worry son, none of that’s leavin’ this room,” Mal comforted as crouched on the infirmary floor to address Simon at eye level.

Simon nodded numbly. Simon appreciated the Captain’s discretion, but his exhausted mind could not form the proper words.

“I know you don’t wanna hear it,” Mal said, “but ya done good today. Weren’t for you and we coulda been short one first mate and the lot of us arrested.”

If it weren’t for me, none of you would have any of this trouble, Simon thought, but again nodded numbly. He lacked the strength for an argument.

“You’ve had a rough day. Why don’t you get some rest. And if you need to talk about it,” Mal said tentatively before finishing with a smirk, “fin