TITLE: "CONSEQUENCES"

AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL

FANDOM: "FIREFLY"

PAIRING: Mal/Inara. River.

RATING: NC-17.

STATUS: SEQUEL to "FIRST STEP"

ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.

FEEDBACK: Welcomed.

EMAIL: AlisonMDobell@aol.com

WEBSITE: http://carlajane.50megs.com/Ali00.html

SUMMARY: "With the course set for Levington everyone turns

in for some much needed sleep, but locked in vivid dreams the

Captain needs help to find rest for his aching heart."

The usual disclaimers apply. The characters and 'Firefly'

are the property and gift of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.

No infringement of copyright is intended.

"CONSQUENCES"

A "Firefly" story

Written by Alison M. DOBELL

* * * * *

Once the shock sank in talk gradually moved away from Inara's painful revelation and on to the job. Inara was relieved. If she heard one more word of pity or compassion she was sure she would scream. The Shepherd gave her an understanding look and turning to Zoe started the ball rolling. The day ended with Wash setting a course by slow burn for Levington and the crew gradually drifting off to their bunks for some much needed sleep. Simon took a moment or two to look in on the Captain before letting Kaylee coax him back to her bunk after checking on his sister. A thankfully quiet River lay curled up in her bed. He kissed her forehead and tucked her in not realising that beneath the covers she was still dressed and that the eyes though closed were not asleep.

In the infirmary Mal was locked in images he could not escape from, sensations and feelings that ran rampant through his body dragging his battered and 'verse weary heart with it. He could feel her lips on his, the desire on her breath made manifest in those oh so talented and dextrous hands. It was difficult to breathe what with her stealing the oxygen from his lungs with every deepening kiss. Reason and common sense tried to rally a counter attack but by the time