Sorry it took so long to update. Got a thesis to work on, and ugh.

Tnx for the reviews, they’re much appreciated!

CHAPTER FIVE

rating: pg13

Disclaimer: see part 1

Oh and things in Italic are between // :)

As usual, reviews are highly appreciated :p

Ok, on with the story:

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The road to ruins is filled with obstacles, but you walk it anyway. The way home isn’t any easier. You’ll get there in the end, but with tremors on the way. And it leaves you speechless…

Mal had remained silent throughout the better part of their journey. Once the mule was back up in the Cargo Bay, he’d stomped off to his bunk without looking at anyone.

Inara had heard Kaylee knocking on his hatch, trying to talk to him, but he’d just dismissed her with a shout.

She was worried, but knew he just needed some time… He’d faced some demons that day, and needed solitude to fight them down.

Letting out a deep sigh she made her way to the kitchen, hoping some tea might help her relax a bit.

To be honest, she was surprised to see Zoë sitting there. It was late and Inara knew Zoë had been a bit under the weather as of late. Well, that was what she made everyone believe. Inara knew better. She’d seen that far off – look in Zoë’s eyes, and how her hand tended to wander towards her belly unconsciously. Inara wasn’t a doctor, but she’d be damned if Zoë wasn’t pregnant.

“Hi Zoë,” Inara greeted in a sweet voice as she moved towards the counter to heat some water, “How are you?”

Zoë nodded shortly. “I’m fine. How’s the Captain?”

Inara let out a sigh. ”I don’t know,” she answered truthfully. Had it been Kaylee, she’d probably told her he was fine, that he just needed some rest, but this was Zoë. If there was anyone who knew Mal, it was her. No need for charades.

“Has he come out of his bunk yet?”

“No… And I don’t think he’s going to come out ‘til morning. He’s got a lot to deal with today.”

“Suppose he has,” Zoë acknowl