River-Simon, on the ship after Niska's arrival at Milliways

[river_meimei]

River's in the common room, sitting crosslegged on the floor with her elbows resting comfortably to either side of the card game in front of her.

It appears to be a highly complex version of solitaire, incorporating two Tall Card decks and a 20th century 52-card deck. This particular variant may have not technically existed before she started playing, but she's absorbed in it.

Just be glad she hasn't broken out the Exploding Snap cards yet.

Comments

[simon_doctor]

"...who's forgetting? River. Who's forgetting what?"

[river_meimei]

River breathes in, and out.

"I don't know yet," she whispers.

Simon's still holding her hand in his; with her free hand, she pushes herself up as if to stand.

[simon_doctor]

His hand in hers pulls slightly, steadily, enough to help her get to her feet.

And doesn't let go.

"River, we can't go there yet."

[river_meimei]

"Simon--"

She tries to pull away, towards the door.

[simon_doctor]

His free hand takes her shoulder, and turns him towards her; his eyes hold hers.

"Niska is still there."

[river_meimei]

River tugs against his hands, fretfully. Not enough to break his hold, but the point is clear.

[simon_doctor]

"It's not safe, meimei."

[river_meimei]

"Simon, they're behind the doors--"

[simon_doctor]

"River. If Niska sees us, and finds out we're on this ship, he will use that knowledge against Mal."

He states it flatly, like the first two-thirds of a syllogism.

[river_meimei]

River is suddenly, absolutely still, and watching her brother's face.

Her face is still tight with misery and protest, but she's not pulling away.

[simon_doctor]

"It's not safe for them."

He lets the pause hang in the air for a moment before continuing, more quietly.

"Kaylee will check the bar and let us know when it's clear. But until she gives the word, we can't go back."

[river_meimei]

Another moment passes.

And then River's whole body slumps in reluctant acquiescence.

[simon_doctor]

Simon's shoulders sag, in unconscious echo.

He leans forward and gently pulls River into a hug.

[river_meimei]

River leans against him, cheek resting against his knit shirt, and stares down with unseeing bleakness at the empty air.

After a minute, her hand winds absently in the hem of Simon's shirt.