Note:

May contain spoilers for some episodes…and some of the comments might not make sense if you haven’t already seen them.

This is intended to be a stand-alone story – however, it will connect with future stories to dig into the pasts of each and every character. Eventually. :)

HOME ON SERENITY - Part One

Kaylee was attempting to sob quietly. Zoe rested a hand on her back to comfort her, but she couldn’t think of a thing to say. Soothing wasn’t a part of her military training.

“Why does she have to go?” Kaylee asked between hiccups, dabbing her eyes with a blanket from her cot.

Zoe smiled a little, “You’ve always told her she should leave and settle down with one of her rich suitors.”

“But she doesn’t have one at the moment! Sh-she’s just leaving us!” Kaylee cried even harder and Zoe sighed. There was no use trying to explain Inara’s decision to leave Serenity. In truth, it had been a shock to everyone, including the beautiful companion.

Both women were startled when Jayne appeared in the doorway of the engine room. “Duìbùqî. River’s headed this way… Skippin’, or somethin’ else crazy-like. Case you don’t want her around none.” He shuffled his feet slightly then met the teary eyes of the mechanic, “Ni meí shì bà Kaylee?” She was surprised into silence, the sobs stopped immediately. Jayne wasn’t known for his genuine concern.

“I’m fine, Jayne. Um, thanks.” She looked like she wanted to say more but didn’t. When he’d left the hall, she glanced at Zoe in confusion.

“Mèimei, the captain does trust him – on occasion. Can’t be all that bad. Besides – he’s had a soft spot for you ever since that Fed put a bullet in you. Fear can make a man act all kinds of strange.” She was thrilled that the hired gun had shocked the young woman out of her depression. It was starting to get on her nerves – and she hadn’t had a free minute alone with her man all day. Wash was confined to the helm, keeping an eye out for the Alliance, as Persephone would be crawling with them. The