Second Base

Zoe feels nothing for River. This gives her, as Jayne would say, an uncomfortableness. She has examined her actions and reactions towards the girl with the same thorough deliberation that has, thus far, kept her alive.

It is that word—alive—that she knows should bother her. She should hate River for not keeping Wash alive. If the girl's a Reader, meant to know things, then Zoe should blame her for not warning them of the danger or using her impressive physical skills to save Serenity's pilot.

Zoe should wonder why it was only when faced with losing Simon that River began to fight back.

And she doesn't hate or blame or wonder, because she is used to thinking carefully. She understands without meaning to that River couldn't (probably still can't) control the Reading. If she didn't know at all, there's no blame there, and if she knew far beforehand, Zoe knows neither she nor Wash would have wanted to share in that knowledge, and if she knew the instant before, there was no time to save him.

River is a victim, too. It is unconscionable to blame her. In the end, she saved them all and helped show the 'verse the truth about the Alliance and Miranda. She, too, is a Big Damn Hero, sir.

This is why Zoe takes River shopping a month after Miranda. Badger has (generously, Mal reminds) thrown Serenity a bone. On their way back from the meeting, while Mal and Jayne stop off for supplies, River and Zoe visit an outfitter's.

Zoe's intimidating appearance secures them a helpful clerk, and her expertise ensures them the best possible merchandise. Charmed by River's grace (and convincing imitation of his accent), the owner offers a steep discount.

Waiting for them outside the shop are the men (her husband will never again be among them), who appraise River and her new combat boots. Jayne grunts in surprised approval; Mal smiles and pats his albatross on the back before sending her with the mercenary to prepare Serenity for flight.

Zoe is prepared when Mal looks her in the eye and nods.

"You did good, Zo'. Real good."