Disclainer: Not mine, just writing for fun.

A/N: So I have been struggling as to how to get the end of this story done, but I wanted to post this for those that have continuously been reading this series! I love this part of the story and though it is a little shorter than what I have posted before, I promise the end will be very long, and there will be an epilogue! I have it plotted out but the muse has decided to take a vaction!

______________________________________________________________________

Zoe swept her eyes across the smoke filled game room, keeping a watchful eye on the floor while trying her best to look nonchalant. As the mark entered the room, Zoe took in a deep breath, remembering all the coaching Inara had imparted on her. She stood from her seat, smoothing the silks of her crimson skirt. She felt like a plaything, clothed in Inara’s finery. The dress constricted every inch of her body, she liked a little slink but this was down right uncomfortable, there wasn’t even enough room to conceal a weapon. She shook the thoughts of how Inara could be in this get up every day as the mark glanced over and caught a glimpse of Zoe. With her hair piled on top of her head and all the paint Inara had plastered on her face, Zoe had been transformed into the epitome of a Core-bred damsel. She kept her eyes light and inviting as he made his way over to the table she had strategically placed herself at. She had not participated in the game, but simply admired the play that had been going on, sipping her drink. Rising from the table had garnered his attention, now she had to use those damn wiles the Captain was always going on about.

“By far, you must be the most beautiful creature I’ve had the pleasure to lay eyes on.”

His voice dripped with desire, making Zoe’s flesh crawl, but she turned her head and beamed at the man coyly. The suggestive demeanor Zoe attached to that smile gave him all the signals he was hoping for. She leaned in closer to him, finishing the last of her drink, “Than