FIREFLY
– I Watch You Sleep – by river tam
Kaylee sleeps the nicest. I wish I could stay until she woke – but, Captain Reynolds would scold me proper.
He sleeps fitful. He calms a bit when I rest my cheek against his temple.
His dreams are always dark.
Zoe dreams alone, in a bunk for two.
Inara's dreams steal my breath.
Jayne snores.
I watch them sleep when I can't find sleep of my own.
Delicate as silk, I slip between her sheets. Deep in her slumber, Inara knows I am here; I see it in her Companion's smile. She welcomes me to find peace beside her. I let her dreams wash over me – as much as I dare... but I won't stay.
Malcolm is warm tonight. I brush the hair from his eyes – his tossing sends it right back. He runs through darkness, torn by streaks of fire. I fill his ear with victorious whispers… but the Brown Coats will still fall.
I am drained. I should return to my own bunk before this sleep cycle ends, but there is still a little time.
I will take a few moments with her. I press my weary smile into her soft curls... and I am sure, Kaylee sleeps the nicest.
- END