Have Wings, Will Fly

Chapter Six: Spa Treatment

This goes without saying, but everyone’s comments are greatly appreciated. Anyone who has posted a fanfic has to admit to checking it every five minutes to see if someone has commented, right? No? That’s just me?

Anyway, thanks again, and without further ado, chapter six!

A/N I don’t think I put this on any of my other chapters, but this ‘verse ain’t mine, it’s Joss’s. All hail the great Joss for giving us these shiny characters to play with, though!

~*~*~

The night grew late and the stars slowly appeared like diamonds on velvet. Delmar was certainly pretty at night, seeing as the populace was relatively small and there were virtually no lights. Jayne’s strumming on his guitar became soft plucks as he began to nod off on his seat. River was asleep on Inara’s lap while Inara played with River’s soft, dark hair absentmindedly. Kaylee, too, was far gone with her arms wrapped possessively around Simon’s waist. She smiled and nuzzled into his stomach. Arden was slumped over, his head resting on his chest and snoring quietly.

“Zoe, I hear there’s a rather quaint spa in town. Nothin’ much, but I also hear they give mud baths…” Wash smiled sweetly at Zoe, who was busy poking more kindling in the fire.

“Mm, sounds inviting. How about it, Sir? Nice relaxin’ day in town tomorrow?” Zoe turned to Mal, who was teetering dangerously on his box seat.

“Huh? Sure, sure, Zo. Sounds…” and with that, Mal fell off his seat, sound asleep.

“Saw that coming.” Inara chuckled and shook her head.

“Well, we best be gettin’ off to bed now. My baby needs his rest!” Zoe leaned over and kissed her husband.

“So? Who gets to carry me to my tent?”

~*~*~

Inara and Mal laid River down to sleep.

“She looks so cute like that. Especially since she didn’t just kill any folk.” Mal grinned at Inara and looked fondly at his little albatross.

“Mal, I do have to get to an appointment next week, you know. This vacation is pleasant, and much needed, but I do have my