Chapter 21

Kaylee sobbed as she kneeled beside River's sleeping form and stroked her hair. "Why'd your brother have'ta go on an' do somethin' so stupid. Top Three Percent ought'a have known I cain't stay mad at 'im forever," Kaylee cried.

"Mei mei, we'll get him back," Inara soothed. "Mal and Zoe are already working on a plan. Everything will be just fine."

"Why couldn't he trust me Inara?"

"Kaylee," Inara said firmly as she grabbed Kaylee by her shoulders and forced the young mechanic to face her, "do you trust me?"

Kaylee sniffled and replied, "'Course, Inara."

"Then believe me when I say his trust issues have nothing to do with you. Simon needs you right now, probably more than even he realizes. We're going to get him back, but we'll need your help to do so. We can't have you doubting yourself."

"Inara, you weren't there, in the cargo bay. He was standin' with this perfect rich core woman, who was really mean by the way-"

"Then maybe she isn't so perfect after all, honestly mei mei, do you really thing Simon would prefer that over you?"

"But I yelled at him. I yelled at 'im and threw my ring at 'im. 'Told 'im he didn't matter and I couldn't trust 'im!" Kaylee balled. "And now he's doin' God know's what with the Core girl to protect River…and me… and all of us really."

Kaylee…" Inara soothed as she wrapped the younger woman in an embrace.

"Why'd he have to be so gorram brave and stupid, 'Nara, why?"

"Love," Inara answered as tears threaten to consume her own eyes. "I suspect love has been responsible for most of his life's decisions. He chose to be a trauma surgeon over more prestigious research, he gave up everything to save his sister and, since he came aboard, I suspect love has made him capable of greater sacrifices. You should be proud of him," Inara said, "he's trying to protect his family. He learned that from you and the captain."

"What if he doesn't wanna come back?" Kaylee asked fearfully, "after what I done to him…"

"His message suggests he hasn't given up on