"Do you not understand the concept of living on a 'ship and eating little more than protein all the time?"
What had started out as a simple reminiscence of childhood memories had turned into an enlightening discussion on how people really lived off of the Core planets. "You didn't have an orange until you were six years old?"
"We'd always get apples if there was fruit available, and Auntie Kaylee likes strawberries," she responded rather disinterestedly, curling herself onto the couch in the lounge. "You people on the Core never really believe what it's like for us."
"I think I've lived on this ship long enough to know how most people live on the Rim."
She grinned and replied, "You would think so, wouldn't you."
"Well, you've got to love Fruity Oaty Bars," he said, clearly expecting an affirmative, he was floored when she shrugged and shook her head. "You don't like Oaty Bars?"
"We're not allowed to have them," she replied with an indifferent shrug.
"You're not allowed to have Fruity Oaty Bars?" he repeated incredulously. "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard!"
With a grin she said, "Well, you haven't been around this crew very long."
"I don't think I can date a girl who's never had an Oaty Bar- it's just not natural."
She chuckled. "Well, I have a very good reason for avoiding them."
"And what is that reason?" he demanded in mock seriousness.
"The commercial once sent my mother into a murderous rage and she killed a barroom of people without breaking a sweat or wrinkling her dress, so Uncle Mal banned them from Serenity."
He was silent for a moment then said, "Why the hell can't you say something normal for once? I'd like to get through just one conversation with you where I don't have to listen to some ridiculous story."
"Fortunately or unfortunately, that one is true," she assured him.
"Oh, sure it is. Just like how it was the captain, Zoe, Jayne, and your family who exposed Miranda. I'm honestly surprised you can't lie better."
"Well, you can barely fly a shuttle. I think I'm still ahead in this equation."