Disclaimer: This story certainly intends no infringement. Please forgive me, mighty titans (including studios, parent companies, producers, affiliates, and of course, the Joss himself.)! I promise I’m not making any cashy money off this.

Summary/Authors’ Note: In honor of mother’s day, this is a series of related vignettes about the crews’ memories of their mothers and the meaning they find therein. It includes a lot of wild speculation on my part. Please forgive me if you feel my imagination has completely run away with me. This piece should come to you in few installments, leading up to Mother’s day. So pay attention!

Dedication: For my Mom. I’m a lucky girl to have you.

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Home-

“Got a wave for you.” Mals’ voice was curt and sudden, cutting through friendly chatter to echo across the galley. Inara, Kaylee, and Shepard Book all paused in the midst of clearing the dinner table to glance at the captain. He stood halfway up the stairs, one hand gripping the rail, looking the picture of harried and annoyed. Around the table, everyone shared a confused glance and Mal gave a sigh intended to draw attention to his patient forbearance. “It’s for you.” He explained, meeting Inaras’ eyes and gesturing vaguely at her.

“Best hurry.” He added sourly, turning away, “I doubt she takes too kindly to waiting.”

Still confused but curious Inara shrugged, giving Book and Kaylee an apologetic smile and followed Mal to the bridge. The rustle of her silk skirts made a strange counterpoint to the sharp sound of his boots on the deck. He stopped at the door and nodded her inside which almost made her frown outright. Who could possibly be waving her that would produce this attitude? Not one of her clients- she contacted them, never the other way around. When she stepped onto the bridge and her eyes fell on the screen she understood in a horrible sinking rush.

“Inara.” On the screen, a richly dressed woman inclined her head gracefully.

“Mo