Disclaimer-

I don't own any of the characters in this story. They strictly belong to Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy and anyone who put's their names on 'Firefly'/'Serenity'.

I don't respond well to plagiarism, so refrain from doing so.

This is my first 'Firefly'/'Serenity' fanfiction so post some feedback, constructive criticism is welcome. Thank you, enjoy. :)

Chapter 1

A blackness settled over the crew of Serenity as they returned from the hard and depressing last good-byes to Shepherd Book, Mr. Universe and above all, Wash. The crew, unconsciously, followed Zoe into the galley and they all took their places; Mal just stopping by the kitchen sink, River bunched in the corner of the kitchen counter, Kaylee in the flashy fabric-covered chair in the dining area, Inara and Simon beside her, Jane at one end of the long table and Zoe, at the other. They were all who were left. It was uncomfortable for everyone, to experience the silence that replaced Wash's uplifting humor. That awkward humor would do over the awkward silence that engulfed the room like a disturbing smell. Nothing but the breathing of Jayne and Mal could be heard. It was hard to tell if Zoe took in breaths, or if she was even trying.

Zoe looked at the bowl of fresh fruit that sat stagnate on the table and took one. She held it in her hands and admired the rosiness of it's smooth skin, the feel of it on her fingertips. She gripped it tight, as if holding on for dear life. The group around her watched as she did without really watching. Just then, Zoe takes a bite out of it, quick and deep. The group stared at her in amazement, except for Mal. She had never eaten an apple without her knife. Zoe felt the groups eyes on her as she chewed and looked up to meet their astounded expressions. She studied each and every mourningful face, each one afraid to make eye contact, except River; who kept her eyes locked on Zoe, studying her.

Zoe decided to get up from the table and grabbed the train of her white satin and silk dress, her funeral dre