The Engine Sex OTP Community

"Sisters."

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 06:37:54 GMT

Title: Sisters

Rating: PG-13

Summary: Serenity was his transport, his coworker on jobs, his home. Just how the hell did it end up as some gorram love shack? [SimonKaylee hints][Oneshot]

Author’s Note: First completed “Firefly” fan fic. I love Simon and Kaylee’s relationship, but at the same time, love Mal and Kaylee’s bother/sister bond. So, I combined both and came up with this.

Disclaimer: I own nothing. If I did, I certainly would have never trusted Fox with it.

Feedback: Being my first “Firefly” fic, constructive criticism is welcomed.

“Sisters.”

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 11:53:29 GMT

Icons!

Teasers:

71 Multifandom icons here

Tales of a Would-Be Hostage

Tue, 29 May 2007 17:14:53 GMT

Title: Tales of a Would-be Hostage
Author: hisalbatross @ LJ.com
Disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters (except Marisol); I just like to play with them. Joss is Boss though, and don't you forget it! ;)
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: Mal/River, Simon/Kaylee
Spoilers/Warnings: Completely Alternate Universe. River never went to the Academy, certain characters have WAY different backgrounds.
Summary:AU: River Tam was a prodigy, an Ace Alliance Pilot and captain. Malcolm Reynolds was a man on the edge. Completely Alternate Universe.
Note: I finally completed this Fic! Yay! Thank you so much to luxuria_oceanus,diamondinsanity, faithfulriver26, whitemoonflower, and all the commentors who had helped me bring this to fruition. Mucho amounts of love.

Chapter List:
Prologue: The younger years - Chapter 2: Reunion - Chapter 3: Destiny in the Making - Chapter 4 A Man on the Edge: - Chapter 5: Realizations - Chapter 6: The dangerous one - Chapter 7: Trouble on the Horizon - Chapter 8: The Point of Danger - Chapter 9: Sudden Yet Inevitable Betrayal - Chapter 10: Out of Gas - Chapter 11: 9/10ths of the Law - Chapter 12: A Little Bit of Girl Talk - Chapter 13: Hell Hath no Fury - Chapter 14: Big Damn Chapter - Chapter 15: Moonbrained Star Girl - Epilogue: A Would-be Hostage and a Sometimes Theif

CoughpimpingCough

Tue, 21 Nov 2006 02:06:55 GMT

If this isn't allowed, mods feel free to take it down. and sorry in advance for posting it. : )

I'm hosting a birthday fic request - where you, the reader request a pairing or character from a fandom and I write the fic for you. I did it last year in 21 for 21, and am doing it again this year. So. Go here to sign up to be a part of 22 for 22.

~J

Fic: Out of the Frying Pan, (6/?, R)

Fri, 10 Nov 2006 17:42:35 GMT

Title: Out of the Frying Pan (6/?)
Author: Tessa (frellingblonde)
Rating: R. Still no smut, saving it up for the next chapter...
Characters/Pairing: Simon/Kaylee
Spoilers: Movie
Series: Previous chapters can be found at my LiveJournal under "Random Recollections."
Summary: The crew meets the new passenger, and a dream spurs Simon and Kaylee to take a surprising step.
Disclaimer: I'm not Joss, therefore, I don't own Firefly.
Feedback: Remember, there's a special hell for people who don't comment. ;-P

Cross-posted to: ff_fanfic, afterserenity, imeantosay_, and enginesex

_____________________

Kaylee covered her mouth to keep from laughing as she returned with the doctor just in time to see Simon reel back from the punch. "Guess that's a yes, honey."

Simon rubbed his chin. "Probably a side effect of the sedatives. They can cause a paradoxical reaction in some patients."

"That would be my guess." The doctor stepped forward, taking out a small pen light to examine Penny's eyes. "Unless, of course, you did something to earn a punch in the face." Chuckling to himself, he shook Simon's hand. "Christopher Alexander, it's a pleasure to meet you, Dr. Tam."

"Likewise." Simon replied, still rubbing the spot where Penny had hit him. "Well, her right hook is as strong as ever. That's encouraging."

"It is." Dr. Alexander agreed. "She's still got quite a recovery ahead of her, but I'm confindent that she'll make a complete recovery." He turned his focus back to his patient, who looked like she was dozing off. "All right, Penny, I'm going to take out your breathing tube now. Take a deep breath, and on three, exhale."

Kaylee stepped forward, taking Simon's hand as they watched Dr. Alexander tending to his patient. As soon as the tube was removed, she coughed and took a wheezing breath.

"How do you feel?" Simon asked.

Penny looked like she needed to really think about her answer. "Confused."

"You were attacked." Kaylee explained. "You're in a hospital on Persephone, and you're gonna be okay now." She thought it best to leave out some of the details. There would be time to explain about the Blue Hands and the resistance later.

"My kids?" Penny's voice remained barely a whisper, but her eyes took on a panicked look.

"They're fine, they're with your husband and sister." Simon spoke up.

Penny closed her eyes in relief. "Just one more question. What the hell are you doing here?"

Simon chuckled. "It's good to see you, too."

"Haven't changed a bit, you lying son of a bitch." Penny coughed, a smile playing at the corners of her lips.

Kaylee snickered, stepping forward a little. "Bet you've got a lot of stories to share. I'm Kaylee, by the way. I'm Simon's fiancee."

"Fiancee?" Penny repeated. She looked up at her former lover. "Congratulations." She glanced at Kaylee. "Sorry 'bout punching your fella."

"I'm sure you had your reasons." Kaylee replied. Simon coughed, and Kaylee smiled at him. "Now, honey, I know I ain't the first girl you ticked off. Doubt I'll be the last."

Dr. Alexander smiled at the young couple. "All right, Penny needs to get some rest. Dr. Tam, I'll keep you posted on her condition."

"It was nice meeting you." Kaylee said.

Simon put his hand on her shoulder. "Baobei, you're in her kill zone."
____________________

The rest of the crew was in a waiting area down the corridor. Mal stood up as Simon and Kaylee approached. "We're taking her back to the ship."

"I'm not sure it's wise to move her so soon." Simon frowned.

Mal nodded. "Well, a few of the folks we spoke to seemed to think it'd be more dangerous keeping her here. This is a pretty big hospital, Doc. They can't guarentee her safety."

"I'll talk to her doctor, find out when it will be safe to move her." Simon relented.
___________________

"Tam, they need us downstairs." Simon looked up from his coffee at the sound of his friend's voice, having been completely lost in his own thoughts.

"What have they got?" He asked, following the other man down the stairs.

"Attempted suicide. She cut her wrists, had second thoughts, and called for help." Daniel replied. "She passed out before they got there. She cut herself the wrong way, but she's still in bad shape. And she's about five months pregnant."

Simon felt a strange uneasiness as they approached the patient, already hooked up to a monitor and surrounded by doctors and nurses. He shook it off...until he saw the young woman's face. "Oh my God."

"Something wrong?" Daniel asked.

"It's Penelope." Simon replied. "She's...we live together. I had no idea."

He stumbled out of the room and slumped into the nearest chair in the corridor. He wasn't sure how long he sat there, head in his hands, before Daniel emerged, peeling off blood-soaked gloves.

"She's stable." He announced. "She's going to be fine. Physically, at least."

"And the..." Simon took a deep breath as he remembered what Daniel had mentioned, before he'd seen Penelope's face. "The baby?"

"The baby is fine." Daniel replied. "I suppose congratulations are in order. You're going to have a daughter." He paused. "It is yours, isn't it?"

Simon could only nod as the announcement sank in. "Is Penelope awake?"

Daniel nodded. "I'm not sure if she'll see you, but you can try."

Barely feeling his legs as he stood up, Simon walked into the room. Penelope turned her head towards him. He struggled to find the words, to speak past the lump in his throat. He felt like he was being strangled. "You're pregnant." He said softly, instantly cringing at how idiotic he sounded.

"It's okay." She croaked out. "You don't need to worry about it."

"Don't need to worry?" Simon repeated. He slumped into the chair beside the bed. He felt so overwhelmingly ashamed. Looking at her now, he could clearly make out a a faint swell in her stomach. How could he not have noticed? Had he really been neglecting her so much over the last few months? "Penelope, you're going to have our baby. And I've been...God, I've been a such an unbelievable hundan."

Penelope closed her eyes. "Simon, I'm not expecting anything from you. If you want to walk away, I'll understand."

"No!" Simon said, more forcefully than he had intended. "I'm not going to leave you and our child. Unless...unless that's what you want. Baobei, I know I've behaved appallingly, but I swear I'll make it up to you." His mind was racing. He had to find his sister, he was the only one who could help her. But he loved the woman in front of him so much. And now he was going to be a father. He didn't know how he would do it, but he was sure there had to be a way that he could save River, and still take care of his new family.

After a moment, Penelope turned back to him. "I'm sorry about all of this. I didn't really want to die. I don't know why I did it." She blinked back tears. "Is the baby all right?"

Simon took her hand. "Daniel said she's fine." He leaned down and kissed her. "We're going to have a little girl."

Penelope finally managed a faint smile. "Sorry I didn't tell you. I just wasn't sure you would want us."

"Don't think that." Simon whispered, kissing her gently. "Don't ever think that."
_______________________

"Well, some things never change. You still got a bug up your pigu the size of Londinium." Penny groused.

Simon shook his head. She certainly handn't changed. "Your gratitude is truly heartwarming. But you need to stay in bed. I don't care if you feel fine. You're not. You just underwent a major operation to repair a life-threatening injury to your brain, do you understand that?"

Penny just folded her arms across her chest, pouting like a child.

Simon shook his head. "Good, we understand each other." He paused to give Kaylee a soft kiss as he brushed past her in the doorway. She smiled at him, then stepped fully into the room once he was gone.

"You know, I'd ask you what you see in him, but my memory ain't that bad." Penny joked.

Kaylee giggled. "Is there anything I can get you?"

"No, but thank you." Penny replied. "Well, actually, there is one thing you could tell me..." She hesitated for a moment. "Is Simon...is he happy?"

"Yeah, I believe he is." Kaylee grinned. "He makes me happy, and I like to think I do the same for him."

"I'm sure you do." Penny told her. "He seems happy, and I'm glad. He deserves it. And tell me if I'm speaking out of turn, but you seem like a good match for him. He has a wonderful, lighthearted side to him. He just needs someone to bring it out."

Kaylee blushed a little. "That's sweet of you."

"I got a way of reading people." Penny said. "And your voice...it sounds familiar. Were you in here? When I was still out, I mean. Were you talkin' to me?"

"I came in a few times." Kaylee admitted. "I'd heard somewhere, a long time ago, that even when someone's in a coma they can still hear sometimes. I thought maybe it might help you to hear a voice, any voice."

"A friendly voice." Penny added. "I don't remember any of it. But I know your voice. Thank you."
________________________

"Still such a boob." River said to her brother as he entered the kitchen. She was seated at the table with Inara, a cup of tea in her hands.

"And what am I being a boob about now?" Simon asked, humoring her.

"Guilt." River told him. "Still feeling it."

"Can't put anything past you." Simon groaned.

"Simon, you can't honestly still believe that what happened to Penny is your fault?" Inara asked, looking concerned.

"It's not that." Simon admitted. "It's just...I supported Unification. Supported the Alliance. People who are capable of killing entire populations and covering it up, of turning teenagers into killing machines, and of attacking sleeping mothers with their children in the next room. And I'm sure they've committed atrocities we can't even imagine. Those are the people I supported."

"So did I." Inara said. "But that was a long time ago. We know better now. If I had known better, I would have felt differently, and I imagine you would have as well."

Simon nodded. "Of course. But that doesn't change the fact that the Alliance was able to get to Penny because of me."

"Not true." River spoke up. "Even if she'd never met you, they still would have been after her."

"What do you mean, mei-mei?" Simon asked, instantly confused.

"I don't know." River said with a shrug. "Neither does she."
____________________

"So there the poor guy is, falling-down drunk, stark naked... singing! I couldn't just leave him to get busted by the feds." Penny said, giggling.

"And that's how you two met?" Kaylee asked. "Liked what you saw, huh?"

Penny smirked. "And that was on a cold night, too, if you know what I...well, of course you know what I mean. You've been there."

Kaylee nodded, grinning. "Yeah, I hear ya."

Simon came in too late to hear what was being said, but the way the two women were snickering was a bad sign. Even he knew that much. "Why not tell her about the time you were arrested for stealing a mailbox?" He suggested, hoping to change the subject.

"Hey, I was drunk. And the damn thing was giving me attitude." Penny turned to Kaylee. "Anyway, this hundan left me in lockdown for a whole day."

"Thought you might learn a lesson." Simon told her. "You never did anything like that again, did you?" Penny was silent, and he sighed. "Should have left you in there for two days."

"Penny's been tellin' me some mighty interesting stories about you, sweetie." Kaylee said.

"I'm sure she has." Simon replied. He considered asking Penny about what River had said, but thought the better of it. Considering the trauma she had been through, he wasn't going to risk upsetting her. "Maybe we should let Penny get some rest, baobei."

"I ain't tired, and I don't mind the company." Penny said.

"You need your rest." Simon reiterated, giving her a look.

"Right." Penny exchanged a bemused smile with Kaylee. "Well, goodnight, then. Kaylee, it was nice talking to you. We'll have to do it again."

"Sure will." Kaylee agreed, just as Simon took her hand and pulled her, gently but insistantly, out of the room. She giggled softly, following him to their room. "Nervous, sweetie?"

"What were you two talking about?" Simon asked, trying to seem casual.

"You." Kaylee replied. At the nervous look on his face, she grinned wickedly. "It's your fault, really. Everyone knows that if a man leaves his current squeeze alone with his ex, eventually they're gonna start talkin' about his diao."

Simon went white. "I must have missed that particular news wave."

Kaylee laughed again at the stricken look on his face. "Honey, relax. Neither one of us had anything bad to say." She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed up against him for emphasis. "Nothin' bad at all."

"Well, that's good. I think." Simon breathed, distracted by the warmth of her body pressing against him.

"Oh, it's real good." Kaylee said, laying her head on his shoulder. "So, did you ask Penny about the broken bones yet?"

Simon shook his head. "No matter who caused her injuries, it's bound to be an emotional conversation, and she's still in a rather fragile condition. I'm going to wait until she's a little stronger." He sat down on the bed, pulling Kaylee with him. He kissed her softly. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine, really." Kaylee sighed. "You worry way too much, Simon. You're lucky I love ya, because it can get kinda irritatin'. Although...there is one thing I could use right about now."

"I think I can guess." Simon chuckled. He lay her down on the bed and began unzipping her jumpsuit.

"Dunno what's got into me." Kaylee admitted, closing her eyes and sighing as his hands slid up under her shirt, dragging the fabric up. "Lately I feel like I can't even get to sleep unless I've had a good sexin'."

"Well, that I can definitely provide." Simon said with a grin, tugging her shirt up over her head. Pulling back to look at her, he felt a rush of love for her that stole his breath for a moment. "You really are amazing, Kaylee. I have never met anyone as kind and as caring as you."

Kaylee knew what he was talking about, and shrugged. "It ain't a bother, being nice to Penny. She's real nice. She's just...she's sad, is all."

"And that's something I'm sure you can help with." Simon told her. "It's hard to imagine anyone staying sad or upset with you around." With that, he lay down beside her, pulling her tight against him and kissing her passionately.
____________________

The ship stayed docked on Persephone for the better part of the week. Simon examined Penny every day, conferring with the doctors who had treated her in the hospital about her condition. Kaylee spent time with the patient as well, the two of them laughing together, trading stories, much to Simon's chagrin.

Late in the evening, on the fifth day that Penny had been on board, River crept into the common area, knowing that the young woman in the infirmary was awake. The rest of the crew had stopped in to visit her once or twice, but River had stayed away, until she could sense that the young woman was getting stronger, and starting to adjust to her new surroundings.

"Well, hi there." Penny sat up a little, and instantly regretted it. "Ow. If you're looking for Simon, I think he's..." She paused, unsure of how to say it delicately.

"Ruttin' on Kaylee." River said. "No need to be delicate around here." She stepped into the infirmary.

"Oh, you can tell that they're..." Penny trailed off, shuddering at the thought. "Poor thing. You really can't control it?"

"Getting better." River admitted. "It's not as bad as it was when they first started."

"Yeah, they been at it a while, huh?" Penny asked. "She's so sweet. Seems real good for Simon. Of course, if they always go at it the way they have the last few days, I'm surprised she ain't up the duff by now." She thought for a moment. "Is she? I mean, she's got kind of a glow about her, but your brother said she's just always like that. And yesterday when I was talkin' to her, she started gettin' green around the gills and tore outta here in a hurry..."

River shrugged, keeping a straight face. "You're a midwife. You've probably seen enough pregnant women to recognize the signs."

Penny gasped. "She is, ain't she? Oh, that's so shiny, she'll be a wonderful mama. And I always did think Simon would be a great father, too..." She stopped herself at that moment, remembering that the younger woman could hear what she was thinking.

"Too late." River said. "I know."

"Oh, God..." Penny whispered. She put her hand to her mouth and blinked back tears. How could she possibly explain to River the lies that she had told Simon? What she had done, what she had robbed him of, was unforgivable, she knew that.

"It's okay." River stepped closer and handed her a tissue. "You did what you thought was right. What you thought was best for him."

"I lied to him." Penny sobbed. "I broke his heart."

"He's happy now." River pointed out. "And he's forgiven you."

Penny shook her head. "He can't forgive me if he doesn't even know what I did."

"He'd forgive you if you told him." River said. "Maybe not at first, but eventually he'd see how much you've already suffered."

"I deserve it." Penny sighed. "I took any chance he had of ever-"

"Shh." River whispered soothingly, wrapping one arm around Penny's shoulders, stroking her hair. "I won't tell him. And you don't have to, it's up to you." She handed Penny another tissue. "You need your rest. Simon will be in soon to check on you." She paused, as if she were listening for something. "Well, maybe not so soon."

"Right. Has another patient who needs his attention." Penny said, wiping her eyes as she lay back down. "That will be a very beautiful, very loved child." She observed. "I won't say a word, I promise. Boy or girl?"

River just smiled and pulled another blanket over the other woman. "Sleep tight." She giggled before skipping off, her feet barely seeming to touch the ground.
_________________________

"Simon?" Kaylee said softly, raising her head. "Everything okay?"

"Uh.." Simon looked down at his blood and fluid stained hands, at the clamps he had just set down, and at the tiny form he had just lain on Kaylee's stomach. A baby boy, red and wet and crying. "Everything's okay." He breathed, smiling. "Everything's perfect." He picked up the baby, wrapping him in the blanket and carefully checking to make sure his mouth and nose were clear, then lay him in Kaylee's arms.

"Hi there." Kaylee whispered, her tired eyes shining as she gazed at the baby. "I'm your mama. And that right there is your daddy." The baby kept crying, and she laughed. "Oh, now, don't be like that. He ain't that bad."

"Hey." Simon protested, leaning down to kiss her and stroke the dark hair that covered his son's head. He was starting to settle down, his eyes opening enough that the new parents could see the brilliant blue of them. "God, Kaylee...good job."

"You helped." Kaylee replied, beaming at him. "Look what we made, Simon. We did real good."

"He's beautiful." Simon whispered, still in shock, disbelieving that this was real. "I love you so much, Kaylee."

"Love you." Kaylee replied. She settled back, cradling the baby, cooing to him softly as he relaxed in her arms. "We still need a name." She looked up at her husband, who didn't seem to have heard her. "Simon?"

"Hmm?" Simon blinked a few times, and found himself on his back with Kaylee leaning over him. It took him a moment to realize he had been dreaming. There was no baby. They weren't even married yet.

"It's time to get up." Kaylee whispered, kissing him softly. "You were smilin'. Have a good dream?"

Simon hesitated for a moment, then grinned. "We had a baby." He told her, reaching up to cup her cheek gently. "You had just given birth to our beautiful, healthy baby boy."

Kaylee gasped, smiling, as his words brought to mind an image of what their newborn son might look like. "Sounds wonderful."

"I wanted it to be real." Simon admitted.

"What are you saying?" Kaylee asked.

"That I've had enough of waiting." Simon told her. He said a silent prayer that he would find the right words to tell her what he wanted. "I want you to be my wife, Kaylee. I want us to start a family. And I don't want to put off starting our life together anymore." He found it was easier to talk to Kaylee when he shut off his brain and let himself say what he was feeling, something he was getting better at.

"We could elope." Kaylee giggled.

"Okay." Simon sat up and wrapped his arms around her.

"Simon, I was kidding." Kaylee told him. She paused. "Well, I think I was..."

"We could." Simon insisted. "If you want to, I mean. We could easily get married here on Persephone, and then have another ceremony, or just a celebation, when we get to Harvest."

"That does sound romantic." Kaylee admitted. "And I am awful tired of waiting. I mean, I can, but I really don't want to." She thought for a moment, then kissed him softly. "Okay. Let's do it."

"You're sure?" Simon asked.

Kaylee smiled, nodding. She looked like she might start bouncing up and down from excitement. "Let's get married. Here, today. This is where we met, Simon. It's perfect."

"You're right." Simon agreed. He kissed the tip of her nose. "Get dressed. I'll check on Penny and find River."

"Right, we gotta bring her along." Kaylee said. "She's your sister, can't get hitched without her there. Plus if we don't tell her, she'll still know, and I wouldn't put it past her to squawk."

Simon chuckled and nodded. "She really wants to be a bridesmaid."

Kaylee giggled, feeling like she would never be able to stop laughing and smiling. "Well, that's just fine. Me, I can't wait to be a bride."

"Then let's go." Simon murmured against her lips, although he made no move to let go of her, as it hit him that he was kissing the woman who was going to be his wife by the end of the day.

"Mmm..." Kaylee sighed. As excited as she was, she found it impossible to pull away from him when they were still tangled up in the sheets together, wrapped around each other. And as she shifted, she felt how hard he was. "Oh...maybe we can wait just a bit longer."

"Sounds good." Simon replied, turning her over and stretching out on top of her.
______________________

Fic: Out of the Frying Pan (5/?, R)

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 21:30:14 GMT

Title: Out of the Frying Pan (5/?)
Author: Tessa (frellingblonde)
Rating: R
Characters/Pairing: Simon/Kaylee
Spoilers: Movie
Series: Previous chapters can be found at my LiveJournal under "Random Recollections."
Summary: Surgery! Flashbacks! Mind-reading! Simon gets punched! Oh, just read the freakin' thing.
Disclaimer: I'm not Joss, therefore, I don't own Firefly.
Feedback: Remember, there's a special hell for people who don't comment. ;-P

Cross-posted to: ff_fanfic, afterserenity, imeantosay_, and enginesex

_____________________

"Hey Doc?" Mal stood in the doorway to the infirmary. "Just wanted to let you know we'll be hitting atmo in about ten minutes, and your sister's at the controls, so brace yourself."

"I heard that." River said over the comm.

Mal shuddered. "I hate when she does that. What you got there?"

"X-rays." Simon replied. "I wanted to take a look at Penny's lungs and make sure they weren't affected by the attack. They don't appear to have been."

"That's good." Mal said. He stepped fully into the room. "Pretty girl. What was it she'd been up to since you saw her last?"

"Her sister told me she took over as the local midwife after their aunt died about a year ago. That didn't surprise me too much, her interest in medicine always seemed genuine." Simon replied.

"So, she was pretty tough, huh?" Mal observed. "Back when she was a honey trap, I mean. Hope she remembers enough of that training to teach that husband of hers a lesson when she gets home."

Simon chuckled at the thought. Michel was about the same size as Jayne, but he had no doubt that Penny could drop him easily. "I'm fairly surprised she hasn't already..." He trailed off and looked closer at the x-ray he was holding up. "Ai-ya tyen-ah."

"Something wrong?" Mal asked.

"She's got three broken ribs, here, here, and here." Simon said, pointing. "These two have already started to heal. And right here, this one appears to have fully healed. These are old fractures, they didn't happen in the attack."

"Her husband?" Mal looked as disturbed as Simon was feeling.

Simon shook his head. "I don't know what else they could be from. But it doesn't make any sense, the Penny I knew wouldn't have let a man who raised a hand to her live, let alone hit her more than once."

"People can change." Mal pointed out. "Not always for the better."

"I just can't imagine..." Simon stopped himself again. "Listen to me, talking about her like I really know her. I'm not sure she even really knows herself."
____________________

An hour after Serenity landed at the Eavesdown Docks, Simon was still in the infirmary when Kaylee went looking for him.

"Sweetie?" She ventured cautiously. Mal had told her about what Simon had seen in the x-rays, and how upset he had seemed. He turned to her, and the look in his eyes spoke volumes. "It's real bad, huh?"

"There are fractures in four of her ribs, her right clavicle, and her right wrist." Simon replied, as if he were describing an anonymous patient to another doctor. "Some of them are fully healed, a couple of them happened as recently as a month ago. None of them appear to have been treated or set properly."

Kaylee shuddered at the thought. "Her husband's been doing all that to her?" She knew that there were men like that in the 'verse, but she didn't like to think about them. She was so lucky to have a man like Simon.

"Well, we shouldn't automatically jump to that conclusion." Simon admitted. "But it seems likely that it's him. I don't know who else it could be."

"The cap'n knew her daddy." Kaylee pointed out. "Browncoats look out for each other. If it is her husband who's been givin' her all them beatings, he'll be sure and teach him a lesson when we get back. Probably Zoe and Jayne, too."

Simon shook his head. "They shouldn't have to. I don't understand how Penny could be putting up with that kind of treatment from anyone. She used to knock me flat on my back if I stepped too close to her during an argument. With what she'd been through in the past, she wouldn't tolerate anything that could be percieved as a physical threat."

Kaylee frowned. "You'd never hit a woman."

"Of course not." Simon agreed. "I never once raised a hand to her in anger. But from what little she actually told me, I was the first man other than her father who didn't. Which is why this is so bizarre. With the kind of training she had, she could take down a man even Michel's size easily. She's perfectly capable of defending herself."

"Maybe she was protecting her kids?" Kaylee suggested. She remembered a woman who'd lived in her hometown when she was a child, who had ended up dead trying to protect her son from her drunk husband. "Letting him knock her around so he'd leave them alone?"

"It's possible." Simon said. "I just wish I could do more for her."

"You're doing plenty." Kaylee told him. "You got her this far. As for who's been beatin' on her and why she's been lettin' them, we can ask her when she's better."

"If she gets better." Simon added.

Kaylee stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him from behind. "She will. Don't ask me how I know. I just do. I just got faith is all."

Simon turned around in her embrace, finally smiling. "How did I get lucky enough to have you?"

"You're good to me." Kaylee replied. "And to your sister, and to everyone else on this boat, even if sometimes they don't exactly return the favor."

"I love you, Kaylee." Simon whispered, leaning down to kiss her. "I know I say it a lot, but I feel like I can never say it enough."

"It's okay, honey." Kaylee promised. "I know how you feel. And I love you, too. Now come on, we got a patient to deliver."
____________________

"I won't come for you again. You end up here, or get mixed up in something worse, you're on your own. I will not come for you." Gabriel Tam's words were a slap in the face to his son, and Simon found he had to clench his fists at his sides to keep from returning the favor. "Now, are you coming home?"

Simon was incredulous. For a moment, he considered making up something about having an early shift at the hospital. But then he decided not to bother. Instead he just turned and walked away. His father called his name, but he ignored him.

It took only a minute to hail a taxi, and about ten minutes to reach the apartment building. He unlocked the door and stepped inside quietly, not wanting to disturb Penelope.

As soon as he locked the door behind him and turned on the light, he realized it was too late. There she was at the end of the hall. She looked more hurt than angry, and it occured to Simon that he would have almost preferred her to be furious.

"I waited for you." She said softly. She was dressed in a lacy little black number that left no room for doubt about what she had been waiting for.

"I'm sorry." He replied, reaching out for her. "The ER was swamped, I couldn't get away."

Her eyes flashed. "Don't. Don't you stand there and lie to me. Aaron called from some dinner party, said your father left abruptly after getting a call from the feds. He made a few calls, found out that you'd been arrested in a blackout zone." Her lower lip trembled and she blinked furiously, as if trying to fight back tears. "What the hell were you doing in a blackout zone?"

"I was meeting someone." Simon explained. He couldn't tell her why, couldn't tell her about River. He couldn't involve her. That way, if anyone came after him, at least she would be safe.

"Meeting someone?" Penelope repeated. She turned away from him, taking a few shaky breaths. "When I was in the bordello, Simon, most of the men who came through my bedroom door had wedding rings on. And a lot of the ones who didn't had tan lines where the rings usually were. I couldn't refuse to service them, I didn't have any choice. But the whole time, I felt sick, just thinking about the women who were waiting for them at home. I wept for those women. And I swore I would never be one of them."

Simon reached for her again, and she flinched away. "Baobei, please, that's not what I was doing, I swear."

"It's okay." Penelope told him. She tried to swallow the lump in her throat. At least she hadn't told him her news yet. She'd planned a romantic, relaxing evening for that exact purpose. But at least she would be able to give him a clean break from her, if that was really what he wanted. Telling him now would only complicate things. "I really should have seen this coming. I stopped believing in fairy tales a long time ago. Rich, handsome young doctors don't sweep whores off their feet in real life."

"Penelope, I love you." Simon insisted. "I wasn't with another woman tonight."

"Then what were you doing?" Penelope asked.

"I...I can't tell you that." He stammered. "Please, I need you to trust me. I would never do anything to betray you."

She cast a pained, doubtful look at him and stalked down the hallway to the bedroom. After a moment, he heard the door lock behind her.
_______________________

Immediately after an ambulance that had been sent to the docks to collect the patient departed, Simon went up to the bridge, sending one last wave to the doctor who would be in charge of her surgery and treatment, detailing for him every old injury that he had discovered.

No sooner had he closed the conversation and switched off the screen than Kaylee's voice crackled over the comm. "Simon, honey? I need to see you in our room."

"Are you all right?" He asked, instantly concerned. She hadn't seemed ill that morning, but maybe she had been feeling unwell, and he simply hadn't noticed.

"Not sure." Kaylee admitted. "Just come here, okay?"

He hurried down to the passenger dorms, hoping that she was all right, that he hadn't been neglecting her. As soon as he laid his hand on the door to their room, it opened just enough for her to reach out and pull him in. Before he knew what was happening, he was on his back on the bed, with a very healthy, and very naked Kaylee straddling him and kissing him breathless.

As she broke the kiss and leaned back a little, his lips curved into a smile. "That was very sneaky of you, Miss Frye."

Kaylee giggled. "Hey, I said I needed you. Just didn't say what for is all." With that, she started undressing him, pausing a few times to let him kiss and stroke her. She felt a slight ache in her core after their encounters the night before, but she still felt a need for him that bordered on desperate. And besides, he didn't exactly seem to mind.

Afterwards, he lay wrapped in her arms, his head pillowed on her sweat-dampened breasts, listening to her quiet breathing and heartbeat as she absently played with his hair. The physical part of their relationship was amazing, whether it was slow, gentle lovemaking or just a hard, fast hump that left them both sated and exhausted.

But there were no words to convey just how much he loved the peaceful moments that came afterward, the intimacy of being completely joined with Kaylee, as close as they could be. Feeling her warm, limp body shiver against him with the lingering sensations filled him with a sense of peace that he needed so much. No matter what else was going on, if he could just have this time with his beloved Kaylee, to hold her and be held by her, everything would be all right.

"You can relax now, right?" Kaylee asked. "You done right by Penny, and she's in good hands now."

"She is." Simon agreed. "I'm all right, Kaylee, I promise."

"Good." Kaylee sighed. She kissed the top of his head softly. "Rest now, baobei. You've earned it."

As Simon's eyes closed and his breathing slowed down and evened out, Kaylee lay awake for a little while, just watching him. She loved being with him in any way, and making love with him was definitely high on her list. There was no denying that he got her more worked up than any other lover she'd ever had before, but lately she'd been feeling like she couldn't get enough of him. She chalked it up to all the excitement and anticipation of the wedding, a smile crossing her face as she drifted finally drifted off.
_____________________

Sensing that it was safe, that the intense passion and pleasure that Simon and Kaylee had been radiating all over the ship had given way to peace and contentment, River crept down the stairs and stood outside their door. The love that flowed between her brother and her best friend made her smile. Reading them both, she found nothing more than pure bliss.

It was a welcome change from the climate of the ship when Penny had been in the infirmary. Even trapped between life and death, the poor young woman's mind had been crying out. There had been fear coming off of her, and sadness. She carried a heartbreaking secret that River had heard but didn't want to know. She couldn't let Simon find out what she knew, not when he was so happy with Kaylee. Not when he would soon have something so precious occupying his thoughts.

As if on cue, a third presence in Simon and Kaylee's room reached out to her, a tiny little soul, but with a voice that she could hear clearly. She heard impatience, and she couldn't help but laugh softly. This was the first time the presence had been so strong, even though she had been aware of it for nearly three months now.

'Soon, little one.' She promised silently before skipping off. 'They'll be ready to meet you soon.'
_______________________

"Oh, that is something!" Kaylee giggled, pressing her hand to Zoe's swollen belly. "Simon, c'mere. Feels like he's got hiccups."

"He probably does." Simon replied, laying his hand on the spot.

"Does it hurt when he's so active?" Kaylee asked.

"It can be uncomfortable at times." Zoe admitted. "But I'm used to it." She had a serene smile on her face, and she actually chuckled as her son kicked again.

Simon marveled at how well pregnancy and impending motherhood suited the warrior woman. She seemed more at ease now than he could ever recall her being, and happier than she had been since before Wash's death.

In his former life, he had been more or less indifferent to the idea of having children. It didn't seem like there was really any question, he would establish his career, marry a suitable young lady, and father children to continue the family name. It was what was expected of him. Certainly, he had felt some excitement when he'd found out that Penny was pregnant, and been disappointed when she'd said that the baby wasn't his. But he had always attributed his sadness to the loss of the relationship, and not the child.

It was only after he fell in love with Kaylee, and began to build a future with her, that he found himself actively wanting to be a father. He wanted to see Kaylee's stomach grow, to place his hands on her and feel their baby moving, to hold her as she held their newborn son or daughter in her arms. He knew that their children would be beautiful, cheerful, and brilliant, and that Kaylee would be an incredible mother. There were even times when he believed he might make a good father.

"Simon?" Kaylee turned her attention from Zoe to her fiance. "What're you thinking about, there?"

"Just wondering when Zoe is going to tell us the baby's name, actually." Simon replied. "Or if we're going to have to keep guessing."

"Soon." River spoke up. "It's still a secret for now."

Zoe just shrugged. "She's the reader."

"Simon?" Inara leaned into the common area, a little out of breath and with her hair ever so slightly disheveled, something that was odd enough to get the attention of everyone in the room except for River, who just sat quietly, with a small smile on her face. "Mal wants to see you on the bridge, there's a wave coming in from the hospital."

"You look a bit flushed, 'Nara." Kaylee observed as she followed Simon. She gave her friend a teasing wink. "Did you run all the way down here?" She didn't even bother asking what Inara had been doing on the bridge.

"Yes, I did." Inara replied, casually smoothing her hair. "I thought it might be important."

Simon and Kaylee exchanged looks as they made their way up to the bridge. "They really think they're being subtle, don't they?" Simon asked.

"I ain't even sure anymore." Kaylee giggled. "But they ain't doing so bad. Jayne don't know."

"Is that really saying much?" Simon wondered aloud, elicting another snicker from Kaylee. They both stifled their laughter as they reached the bridge. "Mal, you wanted to see me?"

"Got a wave." Mal replied, gesturing to the cortex screen. He didn't get out of his chair or even turn around.

Simon sat down in the other chair and turned on the screen. The Operative's face stared back at him. "Yes?"

"Just thought you would want to know right away, the surgery was successful." The Operative explained, a small hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "The patient is in recovery, and could very well wake up before the end of the day."

"That's good news." Simon replied. "Keep us posted?"

"Actually, you and the rest of the crew have been summoned to the hospital at your earliest possible convenience. There are several key leaders of the resistance here who would like to meet all of you." The Operative stated. "I don't know if any of you fully understand what heros you are, what a remarkable thing you've done." He shut off his screen, ending the conversation before Simon could reply.

"Huh." Kaylee said. "How about that? We're famous."

"Or infamous." Simon added. "What do you think, Mal? Trap?"

"Not a trap." River popped her head in, grinning. Then she disappeared as fast as she had come.

The three people on the bridge were silent until Mal spoke up. "You know, Doc, we really oughta think about puttin' a bell on her." He stated, eliciting soft chuckles from both Simon and Kaylee.
_______________________

The hospital was smaller than St. Lucy's, Simon noted, but just as clean and cold-looking. The crew followed the Operative through the corridors, noticing the stares and whispers they were getting.

In the recovery ward, he and Kaylee were led over to a bed hidden behind a plain white curtain. Penny was still hooked up to several machines, and a large white bandaged covered one side of her head where an incision into her skull had been made.

"Hi, Penny." Kaylee said softly, leaning over the young woman. "She looks so much better. The bruising's even gone down."

Simon nodded, coming up behind her and almost instinctively placing his hand on her hip, drawing her near. "Once she wakes up, we'll be able to determine if she's suffered any permenant damage or memory loss, but her doctors were optimistic."

"It's because of you, ya know." Kaylee told him, grinning proudly. "She's alive because of you. There's not too many men in this 'verse who would go outta their way to help a girl who'd broken their heart."

Simon knew that she was right. But he couldn't imagine turning his back on anyone in trouble. "What happened between us before doesn't matter. I wouldn't have been able to live with myself if I'd let her die."

"Don't look now," Kaylee said, indicating Penny. "But I think somebody's ears are burnin'."

Sure enough, Penny's eyes were fluttering ever so slightly. "I think you're right." Simon said, checking the monitors. "Go get the doctor, tell him she may be waking up."

Moments after Kaylee left, the young woman's eyes opened, darting around frantically. Recognizing that her fight-or-flight instinct was kicking in, Simon reached out and took her hand. "It's all right, you're safe now. You're in a hospital."

At the sound of his voice, she looked up. Her eyes narrowed and she looked almost confused.

"That's it, just relax." Simon told her in a soothing tone. "Now, do you know who I am?"

By way of an answer, a small fist shot up suddenly, catching him right on the chin.

Fic: Out of the Frying Pan (4/?, NC-17)

Sat, 16 Sep 2006 21:58:11 GMT

Title: Out of the Frying Pan (4/?)
Author: Tessa (frellingblonde)
Rating: NC-17.
Characters/Pairing: Simon/Kaylee
Spoilers: Movie
Series: Previous chapters can be found at my LiveJournal under "Random Recollections."
Summary: Simon broods, Kaylee comforts him.
Disclaimer: I'm not Joss, therefore, I don't own Firefly.
Feedback: Remember, there's a special hell for people who don't comment. ;-P
Note: Another transitional chapter. A very smutty one at that. Sorry it took so long, between vacation and medical woes, real life ate my brain all month.

Cross-posted to: ff_fanfic, afterserenity, imeantosay_, and enginesex

_____________________

A few hours after they left Bayou, Kaylee entered her bunk, and quickly undressed and slipped on a short, light green silk nightgown and brushed her hair. Then she lay down on the bed, on top of the covers. She was tired, but remembering the sadness in Simon's eyes, and knowing that he needed her, was enough to keep her awake.

He arrived about ten minutes after her, and his face brightened immediately when he saw her waiting for him. "Hi." He said sofly, walking over and leaning down to kiss her.

"How's the patient?" Kaylee asked.

"She's no worse, at least." Simon replied with a sigh. "The medication I've got her on now should stop the seizures, hopefully until we get to Persephone. After that, it's out of my hands."

"And that's gettin' to ya, right?" Kaylee reached up and clutched his shoulders, pulling him down onto the bed. Kneeling behind him, she started rubbing the back of his neck slowly. "You still think you caused all this, so you gotta be the one to fix it."

"You heard what he said. The Alliance is going after people that we knew, to send us the message that we can't hide. If I had never met her, none of this would have happened. She would have been a lot better off."

"Or she'd be dead. Or in jail someplace." Kaylee paused and thought for a moment. "Nah, she was a spy. She'd be dead. Meetin' you got her out of that life. She's got a home now, and those cute little kids."

"And a big, half-witted ape of a husband who's cheating on her with her own sister." Simon added.

"Well, you really can't blame that on yourself." Kaylee scoffed. "And don'tcha think 'half-witted' is awful generous?"

Simon nodded, chuckling. "A man would have to be a special kind of stupid to step out on Penelope."

Kaylee's hands drifted to his front, rubbing up and down his chest before starting to unbutton his shirt. "You know, Doc, you got another patient to attend to."

"Do I?" Simon asked. "And what seems to be the trouble, Miss Frye?" He turned serious for a brief moment. "You haven't had any more nausea, have you?"

"No, none." Kaylee replied cheerfully. She had felt a little ill right after they had returned to the ship, but it had passed quickly enough. "All I'm feeling is this real strong urge to take care of my man, help him relax a bit."

"Well, who am I to argue with that?" Simon kissed her lips softly, running his hands down to her thighs. He slipped the hem of her nightgown up a few inches, enough to see that she wore nothing underneath. "Kaylee..."

"Been waitin' for you." She whispered. "Been thinking about what you feel like in me. Got myself all worked up and ready for you." As he watched, she reached down between her thighs and ran her fingertips over her slick folds and pressed her fingers to his lips.

Moaning, Simon licked her wet fingers, tasting her juices. She was so ready for him, and he felt his cock swell painfully. He tugged the nightgown over Kaylee's head and gently but firmly lay her back on the bed, covering her body with his, pressing against her.

Kaylee had never worked so fast to undress Simon. Thinking about him, about the way they fit together so well and the fervor and passion with which he made love to her, was almost as effective at preparing her for him as actually touching and kissing him.

As soon as he was naked, Simon kissed Kaylee again, then began moving down her body. She stopped him, her hands on his shoulders. "Can't wait." She panted, parting her legs for him.

Simon complied, moving back up and stretching out on top of her, wanting to feel every inch of her body against his. He sucked in a breath when the head of his cock touched her opening. She was so wet that he slid in easily, filling her in one slow, smooth stroke. He held still just for a moment, enjoying the feel of her slick core enveloping him, then started to move, holding her tightly against him.

"Mmm." Kaylee moaned, digging her nails into his shoulders. "Feels good, Simon. Feels real good."

"You feel perfect." Simon whispered, kissing her lips, her forehead, her eyelids. The stress and pain of the last few days were already melting away as he took her, keeping his thrusts slow, but still deep and hard, taking his time to feel everything, to let her warmth surround him and seep into his skin.

They clung to each other, breathing in tandem, kissing softly, pausing a few times to just hold each other and gaze into each other's eyes, saying so much without speaking a word. As their orgasms built, their movements became harder and more intense, but still remained so slow and languid that they could feel the tension inside them growing stronger with every passing second.

Kaylee moaned, feeling Simon's cock hitting so deep inside her with every firm stroke. He was moving faster now, pounding into her, losing himself in her. She understood that need, the need to forget everything except for her and the pleasure that he took from her body and gave her in return.

Even though he knew that Kaylee's intention in seducing him had been to take care of him, to make him forget, Simon found that he couldn't be selfish, couldn't spill himself in her without first bringing her to her fall. With this in mind, he reached down between their bodies and sought out her clit, pinching and twisting it.

"Oh, God..." Kaylee moaned. Just as she opened her mouth to say his name again, one last deep, hard thrust did her in. Her release left her gasping for air, clinging to Simon as if to anchor herself as the absolute, perfect ecstasy overwhelmed her. She barely felt him collapse onto her, only vaguely heard him saying her name, then grunting softly. Just as she began to recover, she felt the wet heat of his climax bursting deep within her core, filling her.

Simon shook on top of Kaylee, his arms tightening around her to anchor himself. God, she was amazing. She anticipated and fulfilled his every need with such enthusiasm, never left him wanting. And judging from the way she was writhing and gasping beneath him, he had left her equally sated.

"Feel better?" Kaylee asked, smiling up at him with a look of lazy contentment in her eyes.

"Much." Simon replied between soft kisses to her lips, her cheeks. "You really are very skilled at helping me relax, Kaylee."

"Good." Kaylee sighed. She ran her hands up and down his back gently, barely ghosting her fingers and palms over his skin. His spine arched against her touch, causing her to whimper quietly as his softened length moved within her.

Settling over her, Simon pressed his lips to hers again, sliding one hand down between their bodies. He pulled back just enough to see Kaylee's face as his fingertips delved into her wet folds, carefully stroking around the place where they were joined before moving up to her clit.

Kaylee gasped at the added stimulation, biting her lip to keep from crying out. The look in Simon's eyes was intense, focused. Before they had finally come together, she had often imagined what it be like if he turned all of his dedication and attention to detail on her body, and some of her fantasies had been quite vivid. But not even a fraction of the real thing.

Still tight and sensitive and pliant from her orgasm, her body molded to his perfectly as he shifted on top of her, carefully to avoid breaking their connection, and bent his head to her warm, soft breasts, damp with sweat and rising and falling heavily as she rocked under him. He cupped one full breast in his free hand, lightly rolling the pert nipple between his fingers, then took the other in his mouth, stroking it with his tongue and suckling firmly.

"Simon!" Kaylee mewled, tangling her fingers in his hair, holding him against her breast. The wet warmth of his mouth and the gentle, insistent pressure of his fingers on her clit combined with the feel of his cock still rubbing inside her was so good, too good. She moaned continously to urge him on, saying his name over and over.

Every time she moaned, Simon rubbed her more firmly, sucked her nipple deeper into his mouth, wanting to hear the sound again. Her vocal responses pushed thoughts of guilt and confusion out of his mind, exorcising his fears from him. Every time she fell silent, the darkness started to creep over him again, and he redoubled his efforts, drawing more cries and gasps from deep within her.

Kaylee started letting out quick, breathy moans, her arms locked around Simon's shoulders and her head thrown back. She sobbed with pleasure as tremors of release wracked and shook her overstimulated body. Through the haze of her intense climax, she felt a stirring in her core, and heard Simon groaning as his body responded to her spasms, hardening deep inside her. Her hips instinctively pushed up, drawing him in further.

Simon gritted his teeth, fighting the urge to pound into her. "Kaylee?" He panted. He wanted to make love to her again, but he wanted to make sure that she wasn't too tired or sore. He stroked her wet folds, parted and stretched tightly around his cock, watching her reaction carefully.

"Whatever you want." Kaylee replied in a low, sultry whisper, gently squeezing his thick shaft with her strong muscles. He groaned and started moving immediately, pulling out so that just the tip was in her, stimulating the highly delicate nerve endings just inside her tight opening, before plunging back in forcefully, stretching the slick, hot walls of her passage.

Digging her nails into his shoulders, Kaylee found she could only hold on and spread her legs widely, offering her body to him eagerly, taking his hard, fast thrusts, murmuring sweetly in his ear when he pressed against her, kissing her face and throat. Even as he took her almost savagely, she felt a sense of peace and safety in his arms. He would never hurt her, or allow her to be hurt without putting up a fight.

"Like that, Simon..." She encouraged him, tightening her legs around him and shifting her hips so his pelvic bone rubbed her clit every time he slammed back into her. "Ooh, yes, right there..."

"God, I love you." Simon grunted against her throat. The muscles in his back bunched and strained under her hands as he raised himself up over her, supporting his weight on his hands, watching the pleasure of their union flit across her flushed face. She was so beautiful like this, panting for more, letting out wanton, rapturous moans every time he entered her again.

"Love you." Kaylee sighed. "I love you so much." She was so wet, full of his come and her own juices, that his cock slid in and out of her easily even as her core began tightening more with each stroke.

Their bodies melded, tangling around each other, as they moved in a perfect, passionate rhythm, straining to reach a peak that was so close it was almost painful. They came almost simultaneously, muffling their cries into each other's mouths.

Their lips parted, gasping for air as they shook with the lingering tremors. Kaylee felt utterly, perfectly spent. Her flushed skin cooled just enough as their mingled sweat pooled on her body, and his semen and her slickness leaked out of her, coating her thighs.

"Kaylee." Simon whispered reverently, cupping her cheek and stroking her skin lightly with his thumb. "My sweet, meili Kaylee."

She sighed happily, squirming against him. "You're so amazing, Simon. You make me feel so good, and so safe."

"I only hope I can always be worthy of your faith." Simon admitted, kissing her forehead. "I hope I can always protect you."

"Simon, don't." Kaylee told him firmly, knowing what he was thinking. "Don't be blaming yourself for something that ain't your fault. You take such good care of me, of everyone on this boat. You're a good man, and I will personally beat the tar outta anyone who tries to tell you otherwise, including that gorram voice in your head."

Simon couldn't help but chuckle as he kissed her again. "I'll try to remember that." He promised. He shifted onto his side, holding Kaylee against him.

They lay there peacefully, wrapped up in each other. Simon held Kaylee to him tightly, her warmth surrounding him. But as Simon fell asleep, a chill started to come over him.

He found himself standing in Penny's bedroom, back on Bayou. The room was dark, except for a faint, unearthly blue glow. Looking around to try and locate the source, he glanced down at his own hands and was startled to see them encased in a thin, bright blue rubber.

Hearing a low moan coming from the bed, he looked, then stepped back, horrified at what he saw there. A young woman with blood trickling out of her nose and mouth. A lovely face looking up at him, frightened and pleading.

Kaylee's face.

He woke with a start, shuddering. He pulled back to look at Kaylee, to see her sleeping peacefully and unharmed. Her eyes fluttered open as he brushed her hair off of her forehead.

"Simon?" She whispered. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing." Simon told her, forcing a gentle smile. "Everything's fine, ai ren. I'm sorry I woke you, go back to sleep."

"Something's wrong." Kaylee said softly. "You know you can't put anything past me. Did you have a nightmare?"

Simon closed his eyes, shivering. "Yes."

"Oh, sweetie." Kaylee sighed, pulling him close. "Want to tell me about it?"

"I can't." Simon told her. He didn't want to frighten or upset her. "It was hideous, you don't need to know the details."

"Okay." Kaylee said, understanding. She wrapped herself around him, stroking his hair, kissing him softly. "It's okay, baobei. It was just a dream. We're okay."

He lay in her arms, listening to her soft, steady hearbeat, gently kissing her neck and shoulders. Touching her warm skin, caressing her, he tried to erase the dream from his memory.

"Think you can get back to sleep?" Kaylee asked after a few minutes.

"I'm not sure." Simon admitted.

"Hmm." Kaylee said. "Me neither. Wonder what we can do about that?"

Simon groaned softly as she squirmed on top of him. "I'm sure we can think of something." He cupped her face in his hands and guided her lips to his, pouring all of his emotions into the kiss.

Kaylee pulled back and rose up over Simon, straddling him, lightly running her fingertips down his chest. "Whatever it was, honey, it was just a dream. Wasn't real." She stretched out on top of him, pressing her body against his, kissing him.

"I know." Simon promised her. He stroked her back, keeping his eyes open to watch hers flutter as she sighed and arched into his touch. As horrifying as the dream had been, he was already finding it easier to remind himself that that was all it had been. What was real was his sweet Kaylee, writhing on top of him, nuzzling his chest and throat, rubbing her smooth, slick folds over his cock.

Kaylee moaned, feeling the tip of his shaft rub over her clit and down to her opening. She was more than ready, and so was he. Leaning down to kiss him again, she dropped her hips, gasping against his mouth as his hardness pierced her.

"God, Kaylee..." Simon wrapped his arms tightly around her, holding her to him, shifting his hips under hers. She was so incredible, in a way he almost couldn't believe was real sometimes. Without any sort of effort on his part, every part of his mind, every fiber of his being, was focused completely on her.

"I'm here, Simon." Kaylee whispered, running her tongue along his collarbone. She rocked back and forth on him, moaning as his cock moved inside her, hitting every sensitive spot. "Ahh, that's so good." She sighed, lifting up and easing back down, gradually increasing her pace.

Simon loved being with Kaylee like this, watching her move over him. She was so graceful, even as she started to lose her rhythm, until she was just riding him almost mindlessly, her hands cupping her breasts and her head thrown back as she moaned and panted, gasping his name. He reached up and pulled her hands away, gently tugging her down so he could replace her fingers with his mouth and his own hands, stroking and suckling with just enough pressure to make her cry out.

"Mmm...oh, Simon." Kaylee mewled. She could feel her release building deep inside her, every muscle in her body tightening with every thrust. She reached down and rubbed her clit, letting her fingers brush the base of his cock, urging him on as well.

Her whole body froze above him for a split second before she collapsed in a boneless heap on his chest, moaning breathlessly and shaking as she came. She whimpered softly as Simon followed her seconds later, groaning as she pulsed around him, milking his release from his body.

Panting, Kaylee rolled off of Simon and snuggled up against him, laying her head on his chest. "That was so good, baobei." She whispered.

Simon tightened his arms around her and kissed the top of her head. "We're good together, Kaylee."

"Think you can sleep now?" Kaylee asked, yawning herself as her eyes drooped.

"Mmm..." Simon buried his face in her soft hair and pulled her a little closer, tangling their legs together so he could feel every inch of her body pressed against him. "Definitely."

Kaylee smiled against his chest and closed her eyes, letting the warmth of his body and the soft, steady rhythm of his heartbeat lull her to sleep.

With the dream sucessfully pushed far out of his mind, Simon slept soundly and woke up feeling a sense of peace that he knew could only have come from being so close to Kaylee. It was early enough that the ship was still quiet. He slipped out of Kaylee's embrace carefully, unwilling to disturb her when she looked so sweet, an expression of contentment on her lovely face as she slept.

He dressed quietly, resisting the urge to wake her with a kiss, knowing that she had to be exhausted after the way she had tended to him the night before. He closed the door screen as softly as possible and made his way down the corridor to check on his patient.

She was exactly as he'd left her the night before, not that he had expected anything else. He could live with her condition not improving over the next few day or so, as long as it didn't worsen. The red and purple stains under the skin on her neck and chest had started to fade to blue, which he took as a good sign.

"How's she doin'?" Jayne asked from the doorway, startling the doctor.

"Pretty much the same." Simon replied. "Was there something you needed?"

"Nah, I been up for a while." Jayne said. "Couldn't sleep. Had too much on my mind."

Simon considered that for a moment. "You know, there's a number of jokes I could make right now, but I actually think you're being serious."

"Just ain't right." Jayne muttered, looking at Penny. He was silent for a moment. "Anyway, something I can't figure out. How's a guy who supported Unification end up with a girl whose parents died fightin' against it?"

"Politics never figured into our relationship." Simon replied. "We just had a connection."

"So, the sex was good, huh?" Jayne asked, smirking.

Simon shook his head. "I'm not going to dignify that with a response."

"And I'm gonna take that as a 'yes.'" Jayne said.

"Well now, looks like you two finally found a way to communicate." Kaylee giggled, coming into the infirmary just in time to hear that exchange. She gave Simon a kiss on the cheek. "How's the patient?"

"No better, but no worse, either." Simon replied.

"And how's the doctor?" Kaylee asked, wrapping her arms around his neck and leaning up.

"Much better." Simon chuckled before kissing her.

"Hey, not in front of the girl." Jayne protested. "Ain't she been through enough?"

Kaylee sighed. "Good morning, Jayne."

"Yeah, same to you." Jayne replied.

"No, Jayne, 'good morning.'" Kaylee said again, tilting her head towards the door.

"Right, I'm going." Jayne groaned, rolling his eyes. "Just cover the poor girl's eyes or something, will ya?"

As soon as he was gone, Kaylee pressed herself against Simon, pouting when he pulled back.

"We have an audience." He explained.

Kaylee rolled her eyes. "She ain't gonna squawk if we steal a few kisses now, is she?"

"No, but she might." Simon replied, pointing over Kaylee's shoulder.

"Good morning, River." Kaylee giggled, without turning around. She didn't need to be a reader to know who it was.

"Jayne said you were torturing the patient." River said. "Breakfast is ready. Are you feeling all right this morning, Kaylee?"

"I'm shiny. How are you, sweetie?" Kaylee asked.

"Got to get back upstairs." River replied. "Buns are in the oven." She giggled as she ran off.

"Huh." Kaylee said. "Wonder what she meant by that? Breakfast is oatmeal, same as usual."

Simon just shrugged. "You know River. Sometimes she's just off in her own world."

"She seems happy enough there." Kaylee observed.

"She does." Simon agreed, smiling a little.

Kaylee wrapped her arms around him again. "You seem happy, too."

"No." Simon whispered against her lips. "'Happy' doesn't even begin to cover it."

"I know what you mean." Kaylee giggled between soft kisses.

"Hey!" Mal's voice startled the couple. He stood in the doorway, gesturing to Penny. "Show a little respect."

"Everybody's making a fuss." Kaylee pouted. After Mal was gone, she lay her head on Simon's shoulder, sighing. "Know what I figured out?"

"What?" Simon asked, absently stroking her hair.

"Why I ain't all that upset about the wedding." Kaylee replied, pulling back to smile at him. "I already feel like I'm your wife, if that makes any kind of sense."

"It does." Simon said. "I feel the same way. Still, I want to make it official, in front of your family and our friends."

"Our family." Kaylee corrected him. "Come on, let's get up to breakfast before anyone else comes by to hassle us."

_______________________

River's odd comment was forgotten over breakfast, where the young reader chatted happily with Mal about the progress they were making and how soon they would reach Persephone.

Despite what Kaylee has said before, she had to admit to herself that she was definitely eager for this to be over, for it to be safe for them to go to Harvest. She was so excited about walking down the aisle. She could hardly wait to introduce Simon to her parents and brothers. They were going to love him. Or else, she thought with a smile.

After breakfast, she was about to offer to help Inara with the dishes when Simon wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her out into the corridor. Before she could react, he was kissing her passionately, stroking her cheek with one hand while the other tangled in her hair.

"What was that for?" She asked breathlessly as they parted.

"I love you." Simon replied, kissing her again. "I need a reason?"

"Simon, I ain't worried, havin' Penny on the ship." Kaylee giggled. "For one thing, she ain't even awake."

"I'm not..." Simon trailed off. He knew he couldn't hide anything from Kaylee. Not that he ever wanted to. "I just don't want you to be uncomfortable."

"That's sweet." Kaylee told him. "But I don't need to be reassured. I know you love me." She pressed closer to him, making him groan softly. "Not that I mind you remindin' me every now and again."

Simon kissed her again, lightly. "Good, because I have no intention of letting you forget."

"Besides, if anyone should be worried, it's you." Kaylee continued, giving him a mischevious smile. "Once she's awake, me and her are gonna have a lot to talk about."

"That's just evil." Simon protested. He kissed her once more. "I'll be on the bridge, I need to send a wave to the hospital."

"Okay." Kaylee grinned. "I'll be in the engine room if you need me."

"I always need you, Kaylee." Simon said. He squeezed her hand gently before letting her go.

Trapped Chapter 2

Fri, 08 Sep 2006 00:42:25 GMT

Title: Trapped
Chapter: 2
Rating: Pg-13
Pairing: Simon/Kaylee (light)
Characters: Kaylee, Simon, Zoe, Jayne, OMC
Summary: Help arrives, but a little late
Warning: Not betaed
Disclaimer: I do not own

Author's note: Here is the next chapter, I hope you all like.

Prologue

Chapter 1

“Take it,” Simon insisted. Kaylee looked down at him, afraid to take her coat back but knowing she couldn’t venture out into a full scale snow storm without one.

“You just sit tight, I’ll be back with the cap’n in no time,” Kaylee said, shifting closer to him. She took the coat and slipped her shivering body into it. “You gonna be alright?” she asked, swallowing and looking him over. It scared her how deathly he looked.

“I’ll be fine. Just…hurry.” The look that Simon gave her frightened her. His eyes were so hallow with just a hint of fear behind him. It was fear he was trying to hide from her, trying to be brave. Bleeding like he was and he was trying to be the strong one. She leaned forward, pressing her lips to his for a long moment before standing up and hugging her arms to herself.

“I’ll be back,” she promised before turning and venturing out into the snow.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“I think you got the wrong fella, sir?” Kaylee said when she saw the alliance gear the man wore. The officer shook his head, his gun raised up and pointing at them. Kaylee looked at Simon who quickly shook his head.

“I can assure you, you have the wrong per—“

“Be quiet!” the officer snapped. He licked his lips and edged forward. “I’ve seen the posters; your face is all over the cortex. Your face and a mighty fine reward. Where’s that sister of yours, Simon?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Simon said, shaking his head even as the officer moved the gun between his head and Kaylee.

“Where is your sister?” the man asked again. Neither Kaylee nor Simon answered and the cop growled in frustration. “Turn around and put your hands on your head. Both of you. I am placing you under arrest.” Kaylee looked at Simon before slowly turning around. Simon did the same, reaching his hands up and placing them on top of his head as he turned. The office approached him, patting Simon down quickly before grabbing his wrist to bring it back behind him. The officer leaned in close, lowering his voice some.

“Where’s River?” Simon made no more to answer. He could hear the officer swear under his breath and step closer. He reached for his belt, grabbing a pair of metal handcuffs. “Don’t like it, but you don’t talk we’ll take it out on that girl of yours. You can be strong all you want, how long you think she’ll last? Especially with the type of men who want that sister of yours. It doesn’t have to go down that way though. You tell me where River is, I’ll let he go. You don’t…well I have a few ways of making her talk.” Simon turned and could see the fear that pass over Kaylee’s face, she had heard what the man said. He couldn’t let that happen, Simon knew he couldn’t be the cause of someone hurting Kaylee. He just didn’t know what else to do.

“I said I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Simon repeated, trying to remain poised and calm while he thought of what to do.

“Fine, you play all you like, I’m gonna take the girl and me and her and gonna have a private talk,” the man whispered sharply. Simon swallowed as his hand was brought from the top of his head and pulled behind his back. He couldn’t let this happen. Not thinking, he just acted, shoving his right elbow square in the face of the officer.

“Run!” he yelled to Kaylee, turning around as the man’s gun flew out of his hands and he reached up to cover his bloody nose.

“You broke my gorramn nose!” the office shouted, voice muffled by his hands. Simon ignored him, rushing past him for the gun. The officer was quicker, his knife was out in a second. Tthe blade pierced Simon’s side deeply before he had even been aware the officer had it out.

“Simon!” Kaylee yelled, running towards them as he fell to his knees in pain.

“The gun,” he managed out as the officer pulled the knife roughly from his stomach. The man moved to get the gun but Kaylee was already lifting it off the ground and pointing it at him. The officer raised his hands up, bloodied knife securely in his palm. He stepped closer to the trembling mechanic.

“Alright little miss, you put the gun down before you get in anymore trouble then you already are,” he growled. Kaylee just shook her head.

“I ain’t puttin’ down the gun,” she said firmly, her eyes moving to Simon as he pushed himself painfully to his feet. The officer took another step forward and Kaylee pulled back the hammer of the gun. Simon could see how hard she was trying not to shake as she held the firearm point blank at the officer. No matter how bad of a shot Kaylee might, there was no way she could miss from that range.

Once he was on his feet, Simon edged closer to her, taking the gun out of her hand and pointing it up at the man himself. His side was bleeding out and hurt more then he thought a knife wound would. His left hand cradled the wound in his side as he started up at the officer.

“I said you had the wrong man,” Simon said sternly. He thought for a moment, trying to think of how they were going to keep this man from following them. Only one thought came to mind. Lowering his gun, he remembered the preached had said. He aimed for his knee caps, if the bible could be fuzzy about kneecaps, so could the Hippocratic Oath. To quick shots and the man was on the ground. The officer cried out, yelling enough to rouse the whole town’s suspicions, if the gun shot blast hadn’t already done that. “Toss me your radio,” Simon ordered. The officer slowly moved his hand to his belt, grabbing the radio and throwing it. It landed at Kaylee’s feet, who promptly picked it up.

People were beginning to gather, they had to leave and they had to leave fast. Simon took Kaylee’s arm and started to back away. They just had to make it to the ship. He turned and moved as fast as he could in the direction of the docks. They didn’t get more than 100 yards before 6 arms alliance officers rounded one of the buildings between them and the docks.

“Stop! Simon Tam you are bound by law!” one of the men shouted. Simon swore, receiving an impressed look from Kaylee before he grabbed her hand and pulled her towards the forested area.

“We’ll go around the town,” he informed her. The snow was getting heavier by the moment. The shouts and calls behind him spurred his adrenaline on, forcing him into a sprint to get as far away from the town as they could. While they left tacks, the snow was coming down so heavily they quickly filled. The visibility was poor at best. If they could just keep moving for long enough maybe they could lose them.

“Simon?”

“Yes, Kaylee,” Simon said tiredly.

“You’re bleedin’ a lot,” she said as they hurried. “We should get you bandaged up ‘fore they follow your blood.”

“That’s…not a bad idea,” he acquiesced, slowing down and moving near some trees. He looked around to make sure no one was close by before leaning up against the trunk of a tree. Kaylee had her coat off in a second. She reached for them hem of her brand new dress, taking a deep breath before ripping the edge, tearing a long strip and then another. She turned back around and lifted his shirt to looked at his wound.

“It’s real big, we’ll need to sew it up,” she said.

“I carry a shirt mending kit; it has a needle and some thread. That should do it. First we need to find cover,” he informed her. Kaylee nodded and handed him the shirt. Simon made quick work of wrapping it around his side, Kaylee using the arms to tie it around him tightly.

“That will have to hold for now,” she told him before reaching to put her coat back on. He nodded and pushed off the tree trunk. The first step brought a shooting pain down his side. With the small break in movement he had lost some of his adrenaline. Simon dropped to his knee for a moment, unconsciously letting go of the gun and clutching his side. Shouting in the distance made Kaylee help pull him to his feet.

“We gotta keep going,” she said, her eyes watching him worriedly. He nodded and didn’t protest when she wrapped one of his arms over his shoulder. “Just lean on me,” she said. Simon didn’t have it in him to fight her.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Jayne crept along the snowy path, his eyes darting every which was. The blood trail had long since vanished leaving him with no way to find those dumb asses who had nearly got pinched by the law. Jayne was a mite ornery at having to be out here in the middle of a freak snow storm, trying to find those two because of the mess of trouble they had gotten themselves in. River had known in the second it happened. She’d screamed out her brother’s name, throwing their buyers off. It was only a second of confusion but River had hit the floor, bullet wound in her chest. Gorramn fools thought she was yelling for feds or some such thing. Mal had put bullets to them both.

Zoe said it missed the heart as far as she could tell, but the girl needed help. That was why he was out here in the freezing cold. They needed the doc or River wasn’t gonna make it. Way the girl had screamed and all the blood Jayne had found, he wasn’t so sure the doc would be in much of a position to help though. Still, a man had to try.

Walking stealthily through the snow, his foot stepped on something hard. It wasn’t a rock, he could tell by the feel, and it wasn’t deep enough in the snow to be anything from the forest floor. His hands reached down, brushing the snow aside until the shiny black barrel of a gun stared up at him from the blanket of white. He reached for the pistol, it was military issue, and had blood on the hand grip.

“Well look what I found,” Jayne mumbled to himself. They couldn’t be far from this spot, must have taken cover somewhere near. His eyes searched the white expanse until they caught onto the top of the entrance to a cave. Jayne grinned like a wolf, he’d found his prey. Moving forward he crept closer to the entrance. Peering in, his eyes fell on a lone figure lying silently on the hard, frozen floor.

“That you, Doc?” Jayne called, pushing the snow away to clear himself a bigger entrance. Simon sat up, relief flooding his face.

“Kaylee was able to get a signal?” he asked quickly. Jayne paused, looking around the cave. Kaylee wasn’t there and that made Jayne even more ticked off. Girl could be downright annoying when she wanted to be, but she was still probably the one person in the ‘verse he didn’t wanna see nothing bad happen to, besides maybe his ma.

“She’s out there in this mess?” Jayne growled. Simon just nodded.

“Fuck,” Jayne said, rubbing his goatee as he moved closer to Simon. “We gotta leave her, hope she gets through to Mal.”

“What?! We can’t leave her,” Simon protested.

“River’s been shot, need you back in the infirmary,” Jayne said, leaning down and picking the doctor up. Simon looked torn but Jayne didn’t give him much of a chance to argue about it. “We’re goin’. She’ll make it through to Mal and if not…well I found you, sure I can find her too.”

~*~*~*~*~*~

Kaylee felt the chill right down into her bones. She didn’t ever remember being this cold in her life. Just think fire, warm, heat, summer, she told herself silently. It was slow moving through the thick snow and as of yet she hadn’t been able to get a signal. Think Kaylee…there’s gotta be a way to amplify the signal. Only one way she could think of though, and that was dangerous. She’d tried it back at the caves but nothing had happened. Staying out here in this cold was maybe more dangerous though, she needed to get Simon help. Turning on the comm, Kaylee switched the dial over, broadcasting on a high frequency network.

“Serenity, do you copy?” Static interspersed with cut off dialoged answered. It was better than before. She switched the dial again and spoke. “Serenity, do you copy? This is Kaylee.”

“Kaylee?” Zoe’s broken voice came over the comm.

“Oh Zoe I could kiss you right now!” Kaylee exclaimed. “Simon’s hurt, I need help getting him back to the ship. Is there anyway you can lock onto my signal.”

“Sure can,” Zoe said. There was a long, static filled pause before the first mates voice returned.

“It’s weak, but we got you near enough. Stay where you are,” Zoe ordered.

“I’ll be here,” Kaylee nodded, moving to a nearby tree to lean up against. She started down at the hill she had just climbed to get the signal. Deep within those woods Simon was bleeding. She sure hoped Zoe would hurry up.

~*~*~*~*~*~

“You get a trace on that?” Officer Michael Chung asked, looking up from his console.

“I did. The fugitive is hurt, if we move quickly we can get him and the girl before their crew can get to them,” the private replied.

“Send the coordinates; I want them brought in alive.”