Mal and Zoe, pre-Academy.

[badinlatin]

Mal stands on one of the walkways above the cargo bay floor. He does that more often now - easier than talking to people.

If he hears Zoe coming, he's not actively trying to ignore her. Just...she might not be coming to talk to him, right?

Comments

[badinlatin]

"Want you to hold onto that." Mal is convinced that if he doesn't look directly at Zoe, this will sound as official and appropriate out loud as it tries to in his head.

"In the safe there's some papers for Serenity. Most of 'em are fake to get through checkpoints and such, but the real live original registration is in there too.

I want you to take it and get it signed over to your name legit if ... the situation arises."

[righthandwoman.livejournal.com]

"If the situation arises."

Zoe's voice is calm and level, her face neutral.

It's not a precaution she's exactly happy with, but she sees the need.

[badinlatin]

For a minute, Mal doesn't say a word. Just takes in the quiet of the cargo bay and best friend standing next to him.

"You know, if we get out of this," Mal chuckles nervously to attempt hiding the fact he finds that to be a true question, "I really expect good birthday presents. From everyone. We need a Cap'n Mal day."

[righthandwoman.livejournal.com]

Zoe returns the look, and doesn't answer for a moment.

It occurs to her, very suddenly, that Mal is the only person who's seen her at Serenity Valley, and her wedding.

The best and worst moments of her life.

He smile is faint, but it's warm.

"Think we might be able to arrange that, sir."

[badinlatin]

Mal smiles in return.

Zoe's seen him at Serenity Valley. The other thing, not so much yet. But whenever that ultimate happy comes around, Mal knows exactly who needs to be there for it to be right.

"Xie-xie."