Note: Scathing criticism, welcome. Thanks to Philomel for a helluva beta.

Rated: NC-17 for a little romantic smut

Spoilers: Out of Gas

Disclaimer: Firefly belongs to people not me. Intended for fun, not profit.

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The Heart of Her

“He really will kill you, you know.” Zoë purred as Wash traced delicate designs on her belly and thighs. Wash merely sighed in response, pulling her closer to him. “And if he doesn’t, I will.” She opened her eyes to look into his, which were half-closed, almost dreaming.

“I’m dead either way.” Wash slipped his hand between her legs.

“Yes,” Zoë lifted herself to him.

“Yes, what?” Wash was teasing her, wondering if she would notice to what extent he had calculated their positions to this point. His eyes were wide open, drilling into her now, but hers were smoothly shut with only a tiny furrow between her brows to reveal anything of what she felt.

“Yes, whatever.” Her right arm shot across her body and she grabbed his upper arm. Her fingers dug into his skin. She whimpered softly.

“Yes I better enjoy every second of this cos the minute I hump it, as it were, I’m dead?”

“Not like that, dear,” Zoë sucked in her breath.

“Not like what?”

“Not like,” she arched her back, forcing his hand. “There, like that.”

“Oh.”

“Mmm.”

“So, I was dead. I was dying.”

“There needs to be less talking.” Zoë clutched at more tender parts.

“Okay.” He acquiesced. Their bodies found each other and he made love to her for a short eternity. He clutched at her, struggling to bring her even closer to him. The lights dimmed and the stars passed and, for a time, they were a single soul in Serenity.

“Zoë!” Wash cried out. Her nails dug into his back and she bucked beneath him. “Ancient gods,” he shuddered and clutched her while they both lay panting. Zoë finally moved, half pushing Wash off of her, half sliding out from under him.

“I think you’re bleeding.” She rolled onto her side, holding the red tips of her finger