Hi all...this is my very first attempt at fanfic and I only started watching "Firefly" last week on DVD...love it and was immediately inspired. Again, this is my first time. Please be gentle. Any constructive critism is welcome. Note the word contstructive. My frail little ego can't take meanies today. :)

Desperate

It was quiet on Serenity. It had been two months since the crew's last job. Captain Malcolm Reynolds lay awake in his bunk, his mind racing at an impossible pace. They needed to eat. They soon needed to buy fuel. He couldn't bear one more day of seeing the faces of the crew, looking to him for guidance, for leadership. " It'll be ok, Cap'n. Somethin' will turn up", Kaylee seemed to say every morning. But it wasn't ok. Something had to be done.

*************

"Hi".

Mal let out a less-than manly gasp, startled by the voice in the dim of the ship's kitchen.

He composed himself when he realized the voice was a familiar one. He cleared his throat. "What're you doin' up 'Nara?"

"I couldn't sleep. Thought I'd have a drink. I'd decided on tea and then I found myself on my way here for something a bit stronger." The companion moved into a small sliver of light, a cup of red wine in her hand. "I left a couple of credits next to the jug. I know how luxuries are scarce around here lately."

Mal gave a tiny wince, pride immediately kicking in. "Don't need to do that. You're here like everybody else. Pour me one an' we'll call it even".

Inara gave a small smile, happy to have someone to talk to...to share a drink with. She padded barefoot to get another cup, effortlessly moving between the shadows.

As Mal's eyes adjusted, he could make out her robed figure navigating the room. Gracefull. Beautiful. Smells good.

"I'm afraid it's turned a little." She handed him the cup and his fingers brushed hers. They both glanced at each other, aware of the contact, then quickly looked away. Mal took a gulp and made a face. "Tastes like malt vinegar." He took another swig. "Good though". Inara laug