Chapter 6: Earthly Desires

Kaylee didn’t know what to say, so she just stood there with her mouth open, gaping. Wash and Zoë exchanged glances and Inara tried to catch Mal’s eye in order to get him to say something. Nobody seemed to want to be the first to speak until suddenly a soft voice broke the silence.

“Sorry to catch you by surprise” Said Lola “I hadn’t realised there was another little girl on this ship”

Kaylee felt about two inches tall. She was about the same age as Lola but compared to her poise and glamour Kaylee must seem like just a kid. She glanced down at her overalls with their rips and the teddy bear patch. God, why hadn’t she realised she looked so young? No wonder Simon hadn’t looked twice at her…

“Are you a…companion?” Asked Kaylee, hesitantly. She honestly didn’t know which answer she would prefer. If she was a companion, technically she wouldn’t be able to lie with any of the crew without money changing hands, however, it would mean that she’d have all of her companion training on her side and that made her a formidable opponent in the game of love. On the other hand, if she wasn’t a companion she wouldn’t have the training but she would still have her good looks and the choice to pursue anyone she wanted on the ship. Kaylee gulped and waiting for an answer.

“Lawfully, no” Replied Lola, her voice cold. Kaylee had obviously touched a nerve “Though I did train as one for a while and have many friends who are registered companions”

great thought Kaylee, bitterly She’s got the best of both worlds

“Badger’s asked us to smuggle her to Beaumonde” Said Mal, addressing the whole crew “Seems she has some business there that needs taking care of and by the by would you mind telling us what that is?”

Mal swung round and addressed that last part to Lola. She smiled serenely and then shook her head.

“I’m sorry Captain Reynolds but that information is strictly confidential”

Her tone was slightly patronising and Mal didn’t like it one bit.

“Now listen here