Work Text:
Garden of Simple
by s.a.
Simon is so tired he can't see straight. He never thought that could happen, that someone could really be so exhausted they could barely see what's in front of them, but now he knows what it feels like. He has to say he's really not fond of the whole experience.
Out of nowhere, there are a cool, soothing hands on his forehead and face, moving to his shoulders and gently guiding him to his bunk. He hears Kaylee's soft voice in his ear, and he smiles stupidly, his mind muddled and slow. They had a job on this planet, and when they arrived they came upon a ghost town, bodies littering the streets. They were all frantic to find anyone alive, and the only person they found was a little girl huddled in a corner. Despite every effort Simon had, she died in Mal's arms and they were left with the task of disposing all of the bodies and then scavenging for anything useful. They didn't have time for it, and Jayne wanted to go kill the bastard that sent them there, but it was too disrespectful to just leave them.
Simon wonders if he'll ever regret having a conscience.
Some part of his brain knows that Kaylee must be as tired as he is, and he's filled with affection and gratitude for her, that she still has it in her to worry about him. With a low grunt, he falls into bed, and before she can turn to leave he grasps her wrist and pulls her down with the last of his strength. She comes easily, curling into his chest, and Simon falls asleep with the smell of her hair soothing him.
end