Kaylee peered into the glass display case and gazed longingly at the beautiful jewelry lying there. Platinum and diamonds, gold and diamonds glinted back at her as she looked wide-eyed at the display and she spread her hands over the glass imagining the exquisite rings on her work-worn fingers.

Serenity had stopped over on Aphrodite, a small planet on the fringes of the system, so that Inara could keep her appointment with the owner of one of the most successful diamond mines there. The terrain was harsh and rugged and Serenity loomed over the compact wooden buildings of the landing port. In strange contrast to these a large transparent dome had been built into the bleak landscape to tempt visitors to enter and spend their money on the enticing goods displayed inside. Kaylee had almost decided that a small round pendant set with a tiny diamond, probably the cheapest in the store, was just right for her when she noticed Inara and her escort at an opposite counter choosing between several opulent bracelets.

While she watched, Simon came over and stood beside her. He noticed the curve of her cheek as she leaned over the display case and watched fascinated as her eyelashes brushed against her skin, till she suddenly turned round and caught him staring at her intently.

'Simon, The jewelry here is amazing, I'm gonna buy myself somethin'. Do you think this one or this?’ Kaylee pointed out two delicate pendants. She sighed, ‘Look at Inara, don't they make a beautiful couple. He's soooo handsome - and rich too. He's buying her a bracelet, ain't that sweet? So romantic. Real shiny to be bought a present like that.’

Simon looked at her thoughtfully as her comment sank in. ‘You're right, it's all very pretty. It would complement you, brighten the – the – the sparkle in your eyes,’ he said self-consciously.

Kaylee smiled.

He hesitated a little before saying, 'Do you think these would make an appropriate present? Which is your favorite? Perhaps you could help me choose....’

‘Sure,’ Kaylee beamed at him and turned to