I want you to know that I needed time alone.. [after_awhile]

[magick_goddess]

[Tara] Looking around the loading dock's, I start looking to see if there are any cargo ships heading out. I'm not sure where I want to go or how long I want to be gone. But I need to see whatelse there is out there, find a place that I fit in finally.
[Jayne] Well, we weren't here for long, but was 'nough time to find a bar. Not 'nough time to find a girl. Not like it matters none. So, with a good amount'a whiskey in me, I start loadin' the bit of stuff we picked up on this rock.
[Tara] Biting my lip I shift my bag on my shoulder and look around, spotting a tall man with broad arms loading things into a mule. "Excuse me?" I glance down before looking up at him. "Are you...do you h-have any room for another passenger?"
[Jayne] Lookin' at the girl who talked to me, I just shake my head. "Got room, but we ain't takin' more people." Liftin' up the last crate I toss it in.
[Tara] "But if you have room then...please? I won't be any trouble or anything..." My voice lowered for a second and I smiled sweetly. "I'd be willing to cook for the crew." I paused and brushed the hair away from my face as the wind kicked up. "P-please..."

[Jayne] Stopped what I was doin' for a moment. She is kinda pretty. Don't seem like she'd be trouble...but...reckon Mal wouldn't like me pickin' up stragglers. "I dunno. Not sure the cap'n would apreciate it none." Gorrammit, why can't I say no? Sighing deeply, I shake my head. "Why not. Seems like you need the help, can't say no."
[Tara] I can't help but grin widely " Thank you...thank's so much." I noticed him looking at me and I blushed slightly, following him into the ship and looking around. "Really pretty, she's got character." I paused and smiled at him slightly. "Mal? Who's that? Is he one of your crew?"
[Jayne] Grumblin' to myself a bit, I make sure everything's on the ship 'fore I close 'er up. "Guess it's nice enough. It's home," I say, lookin' around with her. Never thought of it much, not like Kaylee 'n' Mal. "My crew. No, Mal's the cap'n. I'm kinda...well...we're his crew." Though I don't think I'd mind havin' my own crew.
[Tara] I smiled and watched him work, wondering why I was so bold as to ask him if this was his ship. "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to pry." I shifted a bit and stepped back, trying to stay out of his way. "I'm Tara...and...thank you..." I smiled at him. "I've been stranded here for a while now."
[Jayne] Took a quick inventory of all the stuff 'fore I hit the com button. "Alright River, we're in. Let's get off this rock," I said into it 'fore I turned my attention back to the girl. "Tara huh? Name's Jayne. Nice to meetcha." Sittin' down on one of the crates, I eye Tara a bit. "So, whatcha runnin' from? Everyone who gets on this boat's runnin' from somethin' or 'nother."
[Tara] "Jayne." I smiled and nodded, leaning against one of the crates as he sat down and looked me over. "Running from?" I shook my head and sighed. "Not from, to. My mamma died a few years ago and I've just felt...lost I guess. Thought I needed to find myself, you know?" I shifted my bag again and felt the ship start to move.
[Jayne] I nodded my head, mostly listenin' when she talked. "Well, dunno if you're gonna find yourself out here. Don't find much o' anythin' out in the black. 'sides, our boat ain't like most." Most boats don't got pyschics and steal things. "But...it's not so bad."
[Tara] "Well my mamma always told me that you find yourself in the least likely places. So, I have h-hope." I glanced around and took in the layout of the ship, it was pretty and there was just something more about it. "Not to mention I'm not like most either." I smiled and noticed a man looking down at me from the top of the stairs, he didn't look like he fit on the ship and I politely nodded before looking back at Jayne.
[Jayne] "Well, I reckon that you're mamma was right," I say, knowin' how my mamma used to tell me the same stuff. "Not like most, huh? Good." Maybe she'll fit right in. That was when I saw her look up, so I looked too. "Afternoon doc, need somethin'?" I ask, lookin' back at Tara then back to Simon.
[Tara] Doctor? Well that's nice. But why does he keep looking at me like that. "Hello..." He nodded and turned away, walking away and leaving me momentarly confused. "Yeah, mamma used to teach me thinks that her mamma taught her when she was younger. She taught me cooking as well..." I blushed and looked down, embarrassed that I was babbling under his stare.
[Jayne] Shook me head when Simon left. Sometimes I just don't understand him. "Don't mind the doc none, he's...well, dunno how to describe him." I chuckled a bit at that. "Well you're mamma sounds just like my mamma. So I think we'll get along well 'nough. 'sides, we could always use someone else who can cook," I say, smilin' at her some.
[Tara] his smile put me at ease and I moved my bag on my shoulder, opening it up and pulling out a small box of fudge that I'd made a few days back and handing it to him. "I made this the other day...thought maybe you'd like something you know, real, after bein' out in the black so long..." I paused and smiled. "And a t-thank you for helping me."
[Jayne] Was suprised when she went and handed me a small box. But I sure as hell liked what was in it. Smelled great, looked real good too. "Looks great. Thanks." I stuffed the box into one of my cargo pockets. I'll eat it later, don't wanna have to share or nothin'. "Don't mention it. Not a big deal, really, unless Mal kicks me out the airlock for doin' it without askin'." Yeah, don't want that.
[Tara] My heart sank when he mentioned he could get into trouble. "Well...I wouldn't w-want you to get into trouble or anything..." I knelt down and started to look through my bag. "I think I have some coin if that would h-help..."
[Jayne] Shakin' my head, I moved and grabbed her hand, lightly, stoppin' her. "Don't have ta pay. Just...last time we picked up passengers...well, it was more trouble than anything. But...you don't look like any trouble I seen." Tried to smile, but hell, don't no one look like trouble these days when that's all we get. And wu de tyen ah, I just turned down money.
[Tara] I sighed softly and smiled at his hand touching mine, feeling a tingle run up my arm and blushing at the idea that he would like me and be nice to me because of that. "Thank you." I stood up and took a deep breath. "I promise I won't be any t-trouble." I paused and smiled slightly. "I'd be happy to make something if you would want to show me where I can find the kitchen..."
[Jayne] I just...looked at her for a minute, at her smile, 'fore I caught myself and had to clear my throat to cover it up. Standin' up I nodded. "Sounds good. 'cept, if you want first, I can show you your room. Just so you can put your stuff someplace."
[Tara] I blushed and looked down at my bag. "I don't have any other bags, just this; you can s-show me if you'd like...I don't w-want to be too much trouble." There was just something about him that made me smile, he seemed tough on the outside but something told me that there was more to him then that. It bothered me why I was so curious.
[Jayne] "No trouble." Pickin' up her bag, even though she didn't ask, I headed toward the stairs. "It's real simple. Won't get lost or nothin'. It's right this way," I say, lookin' over my shoulder every now and then as I lead her to her room.
[Tara] I tried to protest as he took my bag from me but the look in his eye said he'd hear none of it. "Thank you." I listened as he talked, leading me through the ship towards the passenger dorms. I felt my stomach bottom out as we broke out of atmo and I gripped onto the railing of the stairs. "As long as you'll guide me back." I joked at him telling me we wouldn't get lost.
[Jayne] Saw her hold on when we broke atmo, couldn't help but laugh a bit. "You'll get used to that soon 'nough. Sometimes it's rougher than others," I told her. When we got to an empty room, I opened the door and put her bag down. "Can lead you where you need to go, 'cept you'll find your way around easy enough." I pointed to the room. "This is your room. Not much, but ain't that bad I reckon."
[Tara] "It's nice, it's more then I had back home with my father." I murmured softly, pausing and smiling up at Jayne. "Thank you, Jayne." I walked over and put my bag on the bed, looking through and finding a small clip for my hair. "If you're hungery I'd be happy to start supper...if you wouldn't mind helping..." I paused from pulling my hair up and blushed deep. "I'm not t-taking you away from anything right..."
[Jayne] I watched her move 'round the room. All I could do was watch. Why? Don't reckon I know. "Not takin' me from nothin'. Supper'd be great, only I dunno if we have anythin' resemblin' food. Kaylee usually does the cookin', but can't hurt to look. And I'll even help."
[Tara] His offer to help felt like something special, I didn't think that he'd be the type to offer to help with something like cooking. But I was glad for it. "I'd like the help and...I'm glad I'm not taking you away from anything." I followed him out of the room and towards the kitchen. "I'm sure I can f-fix something..."
[Jayne] We walked to the kitchen, and I kept my eye out for Mal. Don't want him yellin' with her around. "Hey, food's food. Learned not to be picky out here," I say, leadin' her into the kitchen, relieved to see it empty. "Well, here's where we eat. Family meals kinda." Family? Guess so. After all we been through, reckon we are kinda like family.
[Tara] I crossed my arms over my chest and looked around the room, it didn't look too bad and it sure looked a bit more at home then how things felt at my fathers. "Looks good to me." I smiled and shifted slightly. "Do you um...want to show me where things are?"
[Jayne] I scratched at the back of my neck, lookin' around. "Honestly? I don't have the slightest clue where anythin' is," I said, lookin' down a bit. "I reckon the food's in the cabinets. But that's as far as I know."
[Tara] Walking behind the counter I laughed and started pulling things open, finding standard protin's and herbs. "It's ok, I think I found something that might work." I glanced over my shoulder and smiled up at him. "H-how big is the crew?"
[Jayne] "Well I know where we keep the liquor," I commented quietly, watchin' her move around almost naturally. Sighed a bit when she asked 'bout the crew. "Small. We got..." River, Mal, Simon, Zoe, Kaylee, and me, I counted in my head. "There's six of us. Was eight..."
[Tara] I nodded and quickly started to pull things out, making myself at home in the little make-shift kitchen. "Six, ok." I smiled and then paused when I noticed his voice drop, a look of worry across my face. "I'm sorry you lost someone Jayne." I murmured quietly, facing him and resting my hand on his arm.
[Jayne] Kept my eyes down, but smiled a bit when she touched my arm. "Well, kinda the risk we take, y'know? But hey, we helped a lotta people. Just...well, don't ever get used to losin' people. 'specially all at once." Don't know why I was tellin' her all this, but... it was nice.
[Tara] "I'm sorry." I repeated, rubbing his arm lightly. "I know...I know it's hard, I lost mamma...it's been a while but, sometimes it feels like yesterday." I swallowed hard and tried to smile. "Risk is what life's about, living and not h-hiding from the world." Words I should use myself if I think about it.
[Jayne] Lookin' up, I caught her eyes, and nodded, smilin' a bit. "You're right. Thanks. And 'sides, they left one helluva legacy. What we done? Man, that won't ever be forgotton." Regular gorram heroes, still hard to believe when I think about it.
[Tara] My eyes met his and I nodded. "See, that's...that's a good way of thinking about it." I blushed slightly and broke away from his gaze, starting to prepare the protin and adding herbs to it. "So um..." I'm not the one to make conversation, I dont' know why I'm trying. "H-how long have you been on the ship Jayne? Do you...are you heading somewhere special?" Someone?
[Jayne] Went back to watchin' her cook. Given that we didn't have much to work with, she seemed to be doin' pretty good. I leaned against the table, arms crossed, thinkin' 'bout what she asked. "Well...I been on Serenity for a couple years I guess. Was workin' as a merc on a rim planet 'fore Mal came 'n' offered me a job. Been doin' it since. This has been the most...at home for me, I think. Don't really got no where else to go."
[Tara] I listened as he talked, telling me about what he did before. Being honest about his work before being on the ship, it was refreshing to tlak to someone who was so open and unashamed of it. "Well, I guess it's ok as long as you're happy and all. I'm sure you'll find someone who'll make you think about finding roots..."
[Jayne] "Roots? I got roots. All the family I need's right here on this boat." Don't figure I should mention that I don't do...well...findin' someone, that special someone, sure as hell ain't me. "I mean, we ain't good guys or nothin', but we ain't all bad."
[Tara] "The line is a lot thinner between everyone's deffinition of 'good' and 'bad' then people think." I think I was rationalizing with myself but I really did think there was some good, I'd feel it if it wasn't. "I'm s-sorry, I didn't mean to imply..." Of course he had family here, living with someone so long makes them family. "I didn't mean to assume about f-finding someone either..." I blushed and looked away. "I didn't mean to offend 'bout...being sly or anything...I um..." I let my voice trail off and wondered how I got my foot so far in my mouth.
[Jayne] Ok, now I felt bad, somethin' I said had her gettin' all...flustered-like. Standin' up, I walked up to her and put my hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry 'bout it. I know you didn't mean nothin' by it. 'n' really, all the stuff we do? Not like findin' someone is easy or nothin'. Only people on this boat with someone is Kaylee 'n' Simon. They got each other. That's it though." Zoe had someone, but that's done.
[Tara] I nodded slowly. "You're not wrong, it is h-hard to find someone the way things are n-now." I sighed as I looked around to find plates for supper. "I think that...that if you want it but don't search for it that you'll find the person that..." I paused and tried to think of the right word. "...they'll compliment you."
[Jayne] As I listened to her talk, I saw that she was lookin' 'round for somethin' and figured she needed plates and stuff, so I just got 'em and set the table, talkin' as I did. "Well, I don't think I'll ever find someone like that. Don't reckon I get to. Just not me, really."
[Tara] "Thank you," I turned back and started to finish mixing the herbs, taking a mental note of the things in the kitchen that I could use for another meal. "You shouldn't say that. Everyone gets to." I paused and glanced at him, wondering when and why I got so bold. "It's what you do when you f-find them that counts."
[Jayne] Had a plate halway to the table when she looked at me, and I just looked back at her. 'n' there was somethin' in that look, in her tone, made me smile. "Well, I reckon I'll worry 'bout that if it happens," I said with a nod as I put the last plate down and moved to the cabinet with the whiskey in it.
[Tara] "When it happens." I corrected him. I felt like I was really talking about myself then to him. But I did mean it to him just the same; everyone found their compliment at some point in their life. "Supper's almost done." I murmured as he reached past me for a glass. He really did seem to like his whiskey.
[Jayne] "Right. When, not if," I said as I poured myself a drink. "Smells almost like real food. Ain't smelled like that in here since...well...a long gorram time. Reckon I oughtta round up the crew huh?" Yeah, only now I gotta tell Mal.
[Tara] "Well, I hope there's enough around that I can make the protin's taste a bit better for the crew while I'm here." I just hope he doesn't get into trouble for bringing me on board without the captain's permission. "Yeah, I'm done." I brought the plates over to the table and smiling at how good it smelled.
[Jayne] Just as I was about to head out to let everyone know that supper was ready, I heard 'em comin' down the hall. Heard Kaylee's voice mostly. Figure River must'a knew supper was ready 'fore we did.
[Tara] "What's smellin' so gorram good, Jayne?" I heard a chipper voice singsong, making me turn to see a pretty dark haired girl come bouncing in, the quiet doctor following after her. I swallowed and kept quiet as everyone came into the room, leaving me to walk back behind the counter and busy myself cleaning up.
[Jayne] "Well, uh..." I watched as Kaylee came in, followed by Simon then River then Zoe 'n' Mal. No one noticed Tara right away, which was good. "...we got ourselves a first rate cook..." I could feel Mal's eyes on me, and he didn't look none too pleased. "Uh...everyone, this is Tara. She needed a ride," I said, pointed towards Tara who looked to be hidin' behind the mess.
[Tara] I blushed deeply as Jayne introduced me to everyone...or well announced my presence. "H-hi..." I whispered softly, fidgiting nervously with the edge of my shirt. "Well hey there, I'm Kaylee." The cheery girl grinned at me before pointing to the girl and boy that had followed her. "This is River and her brother Simon." She grinned brightly and it seemed like she wanted to boast 'and he's my boyfriend' at me, but she kept quiet.
[Jayne] Mal was still 'n' quiet, couldn't tell what he was thinkin', and that wasn't a good feelin'. "And this here is Mal, he's the cap'n, and Zoe, she's the first ma--" that was when Mal finally cut me off. "It's a pleasure to meet you, I'm sure. However, I'm not thinkin' that you bein' on this boat is such a good idea," he said, his face kinda...stale.
[Tara] My heart sunk when the captain finally spoke, making it clear in his tone that I wasn't wanted on the ship. "Oh..." I swallowed hard and took a deep breath. "It's...it's alright. I'll retire t-to my room and...and I c-can get off at the next s-stop..." I felt my face flush deeply, tears welling and I felt bad for getting Jayne into trouble after all he was just trying to be nice to me back there.
[Jayne] Seein' Tara all hurt like that? Just...didn't seem right, but 'fore I could even say anythin', Zoe spoke up. "I dunno, cap'n, I reckon we could use someone with cookin' skills. Not sayin' you ain't good at it or nothin', Kaylee, just sayin' that way you won't have to worry 'bout the engine and the food." She looked at Mal, who still didn't seem pleased. "Dunno, just an idea. We got the room."
[Tara] I went back behind the counter and started to pack away the few things I hadn't used when I made dinner. Biting my lip, I kept quiet, hearing the rest of the crew talk and it just made me feel uncomfortable and...small. "I dunno why it'd hurt Cap'n, I mean I've got a lotta stuff to handle with the ship 'n all..." I looked over at them, seeing the doctor shift a bit and blush when Kaylee gave him a knowing look.
[Jayne] Everythin' got quiet for a minute, everyone starin' at Mal. He looked like he was thinkin' real hard, lately that's all Mal does, is think. "Anyone remember the last time we picked up passengers?" he asked the room, his eyebrow raised, kinda glancin' toward River 'n' Simon.
[Tara] I felt really bad now, Jayne looked uncomfortable and I didn't feel good for putting him in his current position. "I-I'm sorry..." I whispered softly, dropping the towel that I had in my hands and smoothed out my skirt before making my way past them and down the hall to my temporary room.
[Jayne] I watched as Tara left the room and grumbled, leavin' after her, pushin' past Mal. "Well gorrammit Mal, I like 'er. She don't seem like no criminal to me," I say 'fore I leave the room and chase after Tara. Could hear Mal in the kitchen, "What? Now I'm the bad guy?" he said. "Tara...wait," I called to her.
[Tara] My eyes burned and the memories of the fight I had with my father came flooding back to me, filling my head with noise that made me sick. I could hear Jayne faintly and I wanted to stop but I didn't, I didn't want him to see me upset.
[Jayne] When she didn't stop, I didn't stop chasin'. Not like me to give up, 'specially since...well, I did like her. There was somethin' about her that just...pulled me to her. "Tara, don't listen to Mal. He said the same thing 'bout River 'n' Simon. Said they was trouble, now they're crew. He don't mean nothin' by it, just tryin' to look out for us."
[Tara] I stopped when I got to the door to my room, unable to open the lock and I sighed in frustration. Resting my head against the door I listened as Jayne talked; part of me wanting to believe him. "Yes he did." I whispered, not turning around to face him but feeling him close behind me. "Dont' belong here...it's ok." I don't seem to belong anywhere.
[Jayne] I sighed again, restin' my hand on her shoulder, tryin' to at least comfort her some. "Only...I think you do belong here. Don't reckon any of us knew where we belonged 'fore we got on this boat, now we do. Figure...this is the best place for you. Mal's just...well, he's been off since we lost Wash 'n' Book. Always bein' more careful, don't wanna see us hurtin' anymore. I bet he'll warm up to ya." Well, I can hope can't I? "'sides, Kaylee likes ya and she's got the cap'n wrapped 'round her finger."
[Tara] I looked at his hand on my shoulder and sighed, turning around and facing him, smelling the whiskey on his breath as I finally looked up at him, hoping the light was dark enough so he wouldn't see how close to crying I was. "I know but...I just didn't want to get you into trouble and I didn't want to be a bother or in anyone's way..."
[Jayne] Now I know I ain't smart, but I ain't dumb, and I could see that she was almost cryin'. That just ain't right. "Well, I'm always in trouble, so at least it's for a good reason this time. And you ain't in anyone's way, and not a bother. You're handy, we can use more handy people 'n' all. 'n' this is a big ship, if Mal don't wanna see you, he don't have to. Dunno why he wouldn't wanna..." I trail off a bit.
[Tara] His voice trailed off and I felt my heartbeat speed up. "You're just saying that because I gave you chocolate..." I lightly teased, taking a deep breath and swallowing when his eyes met mine. "Wouldn't wanna what, Jayne?" I whispered, questioning what he was saying before...
[Jayne] I cracked a smile at her comment. "Well, the chocolate does help some," I chuckled then when she caught my eyes, I went quiet. "Well uh...dunno why he wouldn't want to see you 'round. Pretty girl 'n' all. Would be downright dumb of him to turn you away, is all." Now, I reckon that if I ever blushed...ever, that now would be when I would. Thank ruttin' hell I don't.
[Tara] I swallowed and smiled again slightly when he joked about the chocolate. "And that w-wasn't even my best." I whispered softly, looking down and blushing deeply when he called me pretty. "No I'm not." My voice was quiet and I was aware of our situation and that made me blush again. "my father and brother didn't wanna see me around." I muttered under my breath, looking away.
[Jayne] Shakin' my head when she looked away from me, I just reached and softly lifted her to look back at me. "Now them? Don't know 'em, don't rightly like 'em from what I hear, 'cept I know they must be thick as boards. Cuz you're pretty. Real pretty. And if you knew me, you'd know I don't go tellin' any girl that she's pretty. So just take my word for it. Dong ma?"
[Tara] He touched my face and it felt warm, making a small shiver run down my spine. "I..." I swallowed. "That's sweet." I don't believe it thought, it is sweet still. "Never was one t-to take someone's word on anything...t-they've always been bad w-words..." Everything at home was always hateful.
[Jayne] Didn't move my hand from her face, figured if she didn't want it there, she woulda moved some or said somethin'. "Well, I always been a man of few words, so I don't waste 'em just to make people happy. That really ain't me. Hell, ask Kaylee, she'll tell you that most the time I'm rankin' on her 'bout somethin' or 'nother. I say nice things when necesary." Man, for a man o' few words I sure found a bunch to say. "But...I'd very much like you to stay, and I know Mal'll change his mind. So...it'll...it'll be ok." My voice went soft, and for the first time, I actually believed the words that I said. That's a scary thing.
[Tara] I didn't know what to say, nobody ever made an effort to say words like this to me and they made me feel good inside, even if they were fake which I didn't know if they were. It didn't feel fake. I found myself leaning slightly into his touch, his warm hand burning against my cheek and the smell of his whiskey surrounding me. "I..."
[Jayne] I chewed on my lip a bit, just lookin' at the way she looked so...relaxed just now. Smiled some when she leaned into my touch. Hardly even noticed that I was still touchin' her too. Now, we all know the thing 'bout me and not kissin', right? Well I guess my dumb brain forgot, cuz 'fore I knew it, I was leanin' in to kiss her. Though not all the way, didn't wanna scare her off. Ok, 'nother new thing for me. Hell, I even confuse me sometimes.
[Tara] The warmth of his skin got more intense and I opened my eyes slightly, seeing he was closer to me. My hand found his forearm and I felt my heart speed up just slightly. "Jayne..." My voice was quiet and I felt him move just slightly towards me. I was afraid to move away and I realized I didn't want to. "I won't move away..." I whispered, almost an admission for him not to stop.
[Jayne] When Tara took hold'a my arm, I coulda swore she was gonna push me away, only...what she said...didn't sound like 'no' to me. Lickin' my lips lightly, I closed the bit of space that we had left and pressed my lips to hers, nice 'n' soft like I figure a girl like her would like.
[Tara] I felt his lips against mine and I felt myself tense up at first, relaxing moments later and tipping my face up to kiss him back, feeling his tongue against my bottom lip as I felt his hand slip to my waist, pressing me to him.
[Jayne] I had her 'tween me 'n' her door, 'cept I wasn't too rough or nothin', just needed to feel her nearer to me. Always need to feel 'em close. My hand, that was still on her chin, moved to the back of her neck as I kissed her fiercer, suckin' on her bottom lip 'fore she opened her mouth to let my tongue explore her mouth.
[Tara] My arms wrapped around him, my heartbeat hard agianst his chest as he kissed me. I kissed him back slowly, letting him part my lips, my tongue brushing against his and I felt shockwaves run over me, making me feel weak and almost light headed. Taking another step I felt him pull me closer, my tongue brushing against his as the kiss got deeper.
[Jayne] Could feel myself groan, low in my throat when she started kissin' me back, my tongue wrestlin' with hers. Definately not a bad thing, dunno why I didn't do this before. Kissin' ain't all that bad. Her heart was poundin', sure as hell could feel it, but so was mine. When I finally pulled back, just 'nough to breathe, it was like...like a head rush or somethin'. Same feelin' I get after blowin' somethin' up or shootin' a brand new high powered gun. "Wuh de tyen ah," I mumbled, my lips brushin' hers.
[Tara] I nodded as he spoke breathlessly, feeling what he said but not having the voice to say it. I swallowed hard and tilted my face up, kissing him back again only this time it was my tongue that brushed against his, taking the effort and pulling it into my mouth. I could feel the light scruff on his face, brushing against mine and making my breath hitch in my throat.
[Jayne] Guess she was as speachless as me cuz just like that she was kissin' me again. The way she just took charge like that...just made electricity shoot through me somethin' fierce. Runnin' my tongue over hers, I moved one o' my hands to her lower back, and the one restin' on her hip I moved to the curve of her ass, pullin' her 'gainst me, not even mindin' if she felt what she was doin' to me.
[Tara] Even with my eyes closed I could still feel and see everything that was going on, his body pressed hard against me and I felt all of him. It was so new and raw that it took my breath away from me, making me fist his shirt in my hand and letting him press me closer, letting myself that bit of let go as I felt his tongue brush across mine again.
[Jayne] The way she clinged to me just made me kiss her harder and hold her tighter, only I stopped when I heard the sound of someone clearin' their throat. Breakin' the kiss, I turned and look at a very unamused Zoe. "Mal says she can stay. Said for a while, not permanent though. When we land somewhere suitable, she should go. Only I reckon that won't be an option for a while," she said with a slight smile, somethin' I ain't seen on her since Wash died. "Now I s'pose you move this to one of your bunks, cuz I don't think Mal'd apreciate it none if he found that this was why you wanted her on board, Jayne." And just like that, she walked off, and I sure as hell didn't know what to say, all I knew was that I was still holdin' Tara real close to me and I wasn't about to let go.
[Tara] Zoe walked in and I felt my face become deep red, unsure I'd be able to move or say anything worth of speach after she spoke. My heart pounding hard as Jayne pulled me closer to him when she left, keeping me pinned between him and the door. I was unsure of what was going to happen now and I was even more unsure of what to say now. I licked my lips and said the first thing that came to mind, even though I felt stupid for saying it. "My door's stuck..."
[Jayne] Don't think I was ever happier by somethin' Zoe said, really. Was a nice change, somethin' goin' right. When I heard what Tara said I couldn't help but laugh. "Lemme get that for ya," I said, fiddlin' with the latch and openin' her door, movin' away from her, though I didn't want to, so she could head in if she wanted.
[Tara] I smiled and thanked him quietly for opening my door. "Thank you, Jayne..." I stepped in and stood there, looking in and realizing how empty it was and I suddenly didn't want to be alone just yet. "Jayne...would...you don't h-have to go..."
[Jayne] I stepped into her room, just enough so that I could close the door if I stayed. "Well, new ship, might be a bit scary or somethin'...don't figure you'd wanna be alone. So...if you uh...if you really want, I'll stay." Hell, I kow I really wanna.
[Tara] He seemed nervous and that was strangely comforting. But I knew he wasnt' as nervous as I felt, I dont' think anyone could be. I paused a minute before reaching behind him and pulling the door to the room closed and whispering. "Stay."
[Jayne] "Well, when you put it like that..." I said with a grin when she shut the door, my hand cuppin' her face when she was facin' me again and pullin' her into a kiss, rougher than the first time. Kinda more needy I guess. Don't know what she's plannin', but I ain't a bad guy. If she wants ta stop, she always can tell me.
[Tara] He kissed me and that same feeling washed over me, filling me up and making me pull myself closer for more. I didn't know where this night was going but I knew that I didn't want to be alone now, I didn't want to feel alone...I always felt alone. I wrapped my arms around his neck, feeling his fingers press into my hips and pull me even closer to him, his kiss becoming posessive.
[Jayne] When she wrapped her arms 'round my neck and held me close, I just lifted her off her feet and moved to the bed, layin' her down and movin' over her, without even breakin' the kiss. Only time I did break apart, was when I moved to nip and suck at her neck, tastin' her skin, lovin' the feel of her under me like this.
[Tara] Oh god...oh god...what am I doing... Why...why does this feel good? Why do I want more, why am I not telling him to stop. I was under him on the bed and his lips were on my neck making me writhe and arch under him, my heart thundering in my chest. "Oh god..."
[Jayne] I trailed kisses down her neck, suckin' in bits here 'n' there. The more she reacted the harder I sucked, pullin' back only for a moment when I heard her. "Tara...you want me to stop...you tell me," I said, sorta breathless, hopin' to hell she didn't say stop.
[Tara] My breathing became harder the more he bit my neck, sucking my skin and making me shake under him. "I..." I whispered softly, not sure what I wanted but all I knew was that I didn't want it to stop...I didn't want what I felt to go away. "No..." I whispered softly, my fingers digging in his hair and pulling him up to kiss me again*
[Jayne] The way her voice was all full'a need and breathless like that just made me harder and want her even more. I almost growled into the kiss, my leg settlin' between her legs, pushin' up her skirt with my knee some as my hand slipped under her shirt and up her side. Her skin was so hot, just knew I needed to feel it 'gainst mine.
[Tara] I felt the cool air hit my thighs and I wondered for a second if I should stop, I mean I really didn't know him; I haven't been on this ship for long and I'm by far not a companion... But the way his body pressed against mine I couldn't find the voice or the want to push him away. I just kept my arms around him and kissed him back, hard and rough, feeling him pressing down on me as his hands slid over my body.
[Jayne] My leg pressed 'gainst her, grindin' gently, as my hands moved up her sides brushin' the sides of her breasts as I started to kiss the other side of her neck, makin' sure to mark it like the other. Probably not smart, but who's thinkin' with their brain? "Need...more...of you..." I said 'tween kisses, my hands pullin' at her clothes.
[Tara] The way his body moved over mine all I could do was lay there helplessly, gasping and arching up to him, the pulse in my neck becoming hard and fast the more he sucked on it. "Yes..." I hissed softly. "Please..." I felt his hands slip under my shirt, pulling at the hem and I just bend my head down against his neck, smelling his scent and running my tongue across his pulse point.
[Jayne] I growl again, shudderin' as she runs her tongue over that spot on my neck. "Ok...need you...now..." I said 'fore pullin' off her shirt, her bra, and pullin' her panties down, not botherin' to take off the skirt. One reason I like skirts, easy access 'n' all. Quickly I pulled off my shirt, leavin' one hand to pull at my belt (not very well) while my other one went runnin' up her thigh, teasin' her some, likin' how she squirmed like that.
[Tara] He starts pulling my clothes off, leaving me exposed under him, feeling his fingers slip up my thighs and making me writhe under him. "Oh god.." I did't know if I should tell him how well I don't know what I'm doing but I keep quiet and find myself running my hands over his chest, leaning up and kissing him hard as I tried to relax, getting lost in the feeling.
[Jayne] My hand finally got my gorram belt open, but who knows why the hell I was fightin' with my pants like this. Real smooth, yeah. I groaned into the kiss, my teeth nippin' at her bottom lip as I kissed down her collar bone and to her breast, tuggin' at her nipple with my teeth. I let out a sigh of relief when I finally got my ruttin' pants open.
[Tara] My breath hitched in my throat when I felt his mouth close over me, sending my mind into a spin. I never felt like this with anyone before; not even my first - ok only - girlfriend. "Oh god..." I whispered softly, arching up to him and feeling the warmth of his body pressing me hard into the mattress.
[Jayne] I rolled her nipple 'tween my teeth, suckin' on it hard every time she arched 'gainst me. By the time I moved to suck on her other nipple, I had got my pants and shorts down, finally freein' that achin' and lettin' out a breath at the relief. With 'nough energy, I kicked off my boots and the rest of my clothes, as I kissed my way down her stomach, movin' my kisses to her inner thigh as I pushed her skirt up more.
[Tara] Even with just my skirt on I felt exposed, my heart pounding hard in my chest as I squirmed under him, his fingers running over me as he kissed a trail over my skin. "Jayne..." I whispered quietly, unsure of what I was going to say or what I was doing. I leaned down and drug my nails over his shoulders, arching my hips up sharply at his touch.
[Jayne] The slight sting of her nails on my shoulders pushed me past the whole wantin' and straight to the needin' and the takin'. Nuzzlin' the inside of her thigh, I lightly ran my tongue over her wetness, makin' sure to put more pressure on her clit, needin' her to need me 'fore I got to the ruttin'.
[Tara] I started whimpering, muttering words in chinese that I didn't think I knew and I dug my fists into the sheets, feeling his tongue move over me lightly. "oh god..." My mind kept spinning and I still couldn't believe that this was happening now and with someone I just met... But there was something about him, something that drew me to him. "Jayne..."
[Jayne] My hand held tight to her hip, holdin' her where I wanted her, as I pushed my tongue into her heat, just enough to make her squirm more. Guessin' my stubble was stimulatin' her too, don't think she minded none, the way she was reactin'. My free hand reached up and rubbed her clit, pinchin' it a bit to push her more towards that rocky edge.
[Tara] He held me down and I gasped, crying out and arching up towards him as I felt his tongue and fingers work on me, sending my body into a spin of feelings, every raw nerve alive and gasping for more. I felt myself tighten around his fingers, my hips rocking up hard and feeling his stubble brush against me, making everything feel even more...
[Jayne] When she cried out I knew she was so close, so I moved a bit, suckin' her clit into my mouth with two of my fingers pumpin' hard into her, pullin' all them hot moans outta her. My hold on her hip was almost tight 'nough to leave marks, hell maybe it was, as I slammed into that spot over and over, pullin' her over the top.
[Tara] I bit my lip hard, my hips rocking up and pressing down against his fingers, feeling his tongue and lips on me made me crazy. I was so close, my heart was pounding and I didn't want him to stop. Soft, sharp whimpers escaped my lips as I fell over that edge, his fingers moving faster and making me quake under him. I bit my lip harder - almost enough to draw blood - trying to keep quiet.
[Jayne] When she finally broke, I slowed my fingers, 'cept didn't stop. Rode out the last waves of it all with her, only pullin' my fingers out when her body relaxed. I broght one finger, then the other, to my mouth, suckin' off her sweet juices with a smirk as I rolled a bit to my side, still needin' release, but lettin' her catch her breath some.
[Tara] He moved away from me and I turned and curled my body to his, my heart beating so hard now I could hear it thundering in my ears. "I...oh god." I muttered against his skin, kissing a soft trail over his shoulder and neck, keeping my body against his for warmth and modisty. "Jayne I..." I felt my face turn crimson again. 'That was...I've...oh god...I've n-never..."
[Jayne] My eyes closed some at the feel of her curled up 'gainst me. I liked it, for reasons I dunno, I liked her layin there with me, so I wrapped my arms 'round her and held her closer. "Never? Like...never ever?"
[Tara] I shook my head against his shoulder, leaving light, soft kisses over his skin and wondering why this happened so quick and why I felt this comfortable around him. "W-well...not with..." I blushed and pressed my face against his skin. "Just once w-with a girl..."
[Jayne] Now this was a gorram shock. "Tai-kong suo-yo duh shing-chiouh doh sai-jin wuh duh pee-goo...you sayin' that you liked girls 'fore me and...and you're damn near a virgin?" 'n' ruttin' hell this only made me hotter and harder.
[Tara] "Always liked both...just...just ha-hadn't found any guy worth looking at." I blushed, hiding behind my hair. "The w-way Donnie and daddy treated me..." I licked my lips and felt his arm wrap tighter around my waist, pulling me closer to him.
[Jayne] When she mentioned those...niao se dub doo gway I just clung tighter to her. Knew they couldn't hurt her now, still, held her real close. Though my mouth did pull up into a smirk some. "You think I'm worth lookin' at..?"
[Tara] I looked up at him and saw him smile. "Yeah, I think I do. Never felt drawn to someone like this before..." It doesn't mean that we have to make this into anything if you don't want, I know you're not looking or anything...
[Jayne] Now I couldn't stop the smile. "Well Tara, I reckon I felt real drawn to you too. Wouldn't'a risked my hide if I didn't see somethin' special." When I got all cheesey I haven't a clue, but it worked, and it wasn't so bad.
[Tara] I shook my head and kissed his cheek. "Well then as my mamma would say, you just ain't right." I giggled and reached over for the edge of the blanket, feeling self concious at being exposed and resting my head on his shoulder. I rested my arm over his stomach and pressed myself to him, unsure about going about 'his turn'. God, I'm a spaz.
[Jayne] I pulled the blanket from her hand, not wantin' her to cover up, liked the way she looked too much. "Well your mamma is pretty smart," I said, smirkin' as she tried to figure out what to do. Ok, shouldn't laugh, but I am. "You don't rightly know how to make the next move, do you?"
[Tara] I know he didn't mean to but his words cut into me, making me feel stupid and small. "No." I whispered, blushing deeply and turning away, pulling my skirt down around me since he pulled the blanket away.
[Jayne] Why do I gotta be such a hwoon dahn? Sighin', I sat up, runnin' my hands over my face. "Didn't mean to be such tah mah de. I'm sorry. Just...I make jokes. Guess it weren't the right time..." Now, I reckon I blew it.
[Tara] I mentally kicked myself for getting so emotional, knowing that I shoul dhave realized he was only kidding. "I know." I whispered softly, licking my bottom lip and turning a bit to face him. "Just..." I shrugged and glanced down, letting my hair cover my face and not sure what I meant to say.
[Jayne] "No, it's my fault. Just...you know, never been with a virgin before. Kinda...well..." the whores on the rim planets usually all I get. "...I'm real sorry." I tuck the hair behind her ears and lift her sight to look at me, and the hurt in her eyes makes me feel more like a ruttin' bastard. "I can leave if you want."
[Tara] I looked up at him and shifted my body a bit closer to him. "You...you could leave...but if you do..." I leaned up and whispered. "I'd h-have to make myself look like a f-fool trying to get you to stay..."
[Jayne] My eyes ran over her when she moved closer, and I groaned when she whispered in my ear. Her hot breath...got me right back to ready. "Gorrammit woman," I muttered, 'fore clearin' my throat. "Well...how foolish?" I joked.
[Tara] "Slightly foolish..." I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed his skin softly, leaving a light trail of kisses over his skin. "Jayne...please stay..."
[Jayne] Almost feels like a game. 'cept her lips are so soft, and...well, I'm stayin' no matter what. "I dunno...don't think you're quite foolish enough," I say, smirkin' at her, though really tryin' to not seem like a bastard.
[Tara] I boldly moved my body closer to him, feeling him pressing against my skin as I ran my lips lightly over his ear. "Please...I want you..." My voice was low and breathy, not realizing I meant those words till I said them. "Please don't leave..."
[Jayne] When I opened my mouth to talk, don't think words came out. Don't think sounds came out. Cuz gorrammit, that was hot. My arms wrapped 'round her waist and I pulled her to me. "You want me? Want me...how?" Wuh de tyen ah, if she says it, I might just up 'n' lose it.
[Tara] My breath hitched in my throat as he pulled me closer, his body pressing against his and making me whimper softly. "Yes...I w-want you..." A small moan escaped my lips and I buried my face in his neck. I knew what he wanted me to say, but i didn't think I was able to say it without feeling stupid or ashamed. "Take me..." I whispered against his neck, kissing the skin just under his ear.
[Jayne] Don't reckon this girl ever cussed in her life, but sure as hell, that's my new goal. "Well, could never say no to a pretty lady," I said quietly as I layed her back down and removed her skirt. She looked might intent on hidin' behind it, now she won't be able to hide. Never rutted a virgin 'fore, 'cept I knew it wasn't always so good the first time for 'em on account'a it hurtin'. Didn't know if she knew though. "Tara, this might hurt some, bein' your first 'n' all. Just...if you want me to stop, just say somethin'," I whispered, kissin' her lips lightly.
[Tara] I nodded softly, leaning up and pressing my lips against his; wrapping my arms around his neck. I felt so exposed naked like this under him but when I thought about him being just as naked as I was... "I will." I whispered against his lips, wrapping my arm around his neck and pulling him down and kissing him just a bit harder.
[Jayne] I rested my arms on both sides of her, movin' myself between her legs, and I groaned at the feelin' of the heat comin' off'a her and ont'a me 'fore I was even inside her. Breakin' the kiss, I looked int'a her eyes, makin' sure she was good 'n' ready. Could tell that she was, so I slowly started to push inside her, havin' to bite back a moan at her tightness 'round me.
[Tara] Short gasping whimpers escaped my throat and I closed my eyes tightly, arching my back as I felt him press into me. It hurt as much as it felt good and I bit my lip hard, trying to keep myself from crying out and having one of the crew hear us somehow. "Oh god..." I whispered, my heart beating faster and my breath coming out in short gasps.
[Jayne] Wasn't even all the way in 'fore she arched into me and made whimperin' noises. Her eyes were closed real tight and she looked like it hurt, and I didn't want it to hurt. So I stopped, didn't pull out and didn't push in anymore, just stopped. "You ok?" my voice was real soft, and in a tone I don't think I ever used before.
[Tara] I nodded quietly, leaning up and kissing him softly, wrapping my arms tightly around his neck and pulling him down to me. I wasn't sure where any of this want or need came from; but I did and I couldn't stop the craving I needed for him.
[Jayne] I kissed her hard, just as I pushed the rest'a the way in, holdin' it there for a second to let her get used ta me 'fore I slowly pulled outta her, then slowly pushed back in. Made a nice easy pace, watchin' for any signs of needin' to stop, but knowin' that stoppin' now wasn't gonna be easy.
[Tara] My nails dug into him as he pushed into me, my body tightening around him as he pressed his body down onto me. I arched my back and felt his lips against my neck, making me shake slightly under him; silently despereate for more. "Jayne...oh god..." I breathed heavily, wrapping my leg around his waist, rocking my body against his.
[Jayne] Could feel her nails diggin' into my skin, her heel diggin' into my back, but I just kept the slow steady rythym, all to not hurt her. I sucked lightly on that special spot, where her pulse pounded, in her neck. Everytime I move inisde her, I'd push in hard, then move back out slow. My grunts 'n' groans were silenced by her shoulder, as I bit lightly into it.
[Tara] Tears ran down my face but I didn't want him to stop, I tightened my thighs around him, arching up to him every time he pushed into me, my breathing hard against his neck. I ducked my head down and started kissing his neck lightly, my fingers moving over his back as I felt him move over me, nothing more audible then whimpers escaping my lips.
[Jayne] My skin pricked with goosebumps, a mix of the cool air and the thin layer of sweat comin' off me. Felt good, and the harder she pulled me to her, the harder I started to pump into her. Knew I wouldn't last long, after all the teasin' and the fact that I ain't been with a girl in a long time. But I had to make her break first, had to hear her say somethin' unladylike.
[Tara] I writhed harder under him, feeling myself tighten around him with each thrust. I panted hard against his neck, flicking my tongue over his salted skin and nipping lightly at his pulse point, hearing him groan against my ear. "Jayne..." I gasped out, wrapping my thighs around him and feeling my body start to shake slightly. I felt him move harder and I bit my lip, buring my face against his neck to keep from crying out.
[Jayne] She was shakin' 'round me 'n' I knew she was close. Hell, I was so gorram close, but I still needed to push her to that ruttin' beautiful edge, so I slowed my thrustin', teasin' her a bit. I nipped just below her ear. "So close. I can feel how close you are. Need to hear how much you need it." My breath was hot on her ear, I sucked lightly on her earlobe, and smirked some to myself. Ok, I reckon I'm a mite frustratin', but I just needed to see if I can make her do it.
[Tara] His lips hot on my skin, making me gasp hard and dig my nails into his back, whimpering and nodding softly. "Yes...I need it." I gasped, wrapping my legs tightly around his waist, my back arching again and pressing my breasts against his chest; feeling his chest hair brushing against me. It made everything feel more intense and I gasped hard, feeling myself tighten again around him. "Want you..." I whispered against his neck, hearing his heartbeat pounding hard in his chest.
[Jayne] Knew I wouldn't get the rise outta her that I wanted, not tonight at least. My breathin' was real shaky, and even I couldn't keep up with the stupid game I was playin', so I stopped teasin', her 'n' me, and slammed int'a her. Over and over again, poundin' against her sweet spot, pullin' the sounds outta her.
[Tara] "Lao TYEN yeh." I gasped heavily against his shoulder, feeling him pick up the pace, his hips hitting hard into mine and making me sob softly.I felt the pain shoot up from between my thighs and rest in my spine, making me rock my hips hard against him, drowning out the pain and focusing on the pleasure. ""Wuh de tyen, ah." Crying out I gripped onto him hard, feeling myself tighten hard around him and shudder.
[Jayne] Couldn't help but smirk some, least I got some chinese outta her. When she tightened and shook 'round me, 'n' I couldn't even hold back a bit longer. With a final, hard, thrust I spilled all that I had int'a her, yellin' out some cusses I don't rightly think I used in a while, 'fore collapsin' half next to her, half on her. My heart was beatin' faster 'an I ever thought it done before. Don't think it ever felt that good neither.
[Tara] He came and I came right after him, gasping hard and digging my nails into him. "Oh god..." I felt him collapse onto me and I just quietly ran my hands over his skin, my heart pounding in my ears and my lips unsure what to say.
[Jayne] The feelin' of her heart poundin' with mine, her chest risin' 'n' fallin' as hard as mine, just feelin' her near me, was somethin' else. Usually, it's rut, pay, then leave. This was so differ'nt, so...nice. I pulled her close to me, kissin' her shoulder lightly. "Speechless is a good thing I'm hopin'," I said softly, smilin' tiredly at her.
[Tara] He pulled me to him and I felt some of the anxiety leave my body letting me relax against him. I could feel the heat from his naked body against mine, my cheeks blushing slightly as I reached for the blankets to cover myself up. "It is." I finally whispered, feeling his lips against my neck and shoulder again.
[Jayne] This time I let her cover herself up, mainly cuz I didn't have the energy to argue with her, 'n' cuz the chill came back to the room some. I nuzzled int'a her shoulder, my fingers runnin' lightly up and down her side and her stomach, and I felt real comfortable like this. "It...never been like this for me 'fore."
[Tara] I smiled slightly, resting my face against his chest. "Makes two of us." I whispered, wrapping the blanket around me a bit, pulling it so it covered him as well. "New's something that's bound to h-happen." I kissed his skin softly before closing my eyes for a second. A thought crossed my mind and I opened them again, looking up at him in the darkened room. "You...you d-don't have to s-stay if you don't want to..." I didn't want him to feel obligated.
[Jayne] "I'm thinkin' I like new," I said with a grin, kissin' the top of her head, and just holdin' her to me. She felt so much more at ease'n she did 'fore 'n' I wasn't gonna move for nothin'. "Tara, don't think I ever felt more comfortable'n I do right now. I ain't goin' no where."
[Tara] I rested my arm over his waist and closed my eyes again, hearing his heartbeat under my ear. "Me too." I agreed, knowng that I've never felt this relaxed with anyone before; let alone a man. But I couldn't help but feel unsure about things; I knew I couldn't worry about it right now, one day and one step at a time is what I have to do. My cheeks flaired and I ducked my head down against his chest. "Jayne...w-was..." I swallowed hard and let my hair cover my face. "Was I ok?"
[Jayne] My eyes were feelin' heavy, so I let 'em rest a bit. Tara's words barely registered in my head, took a minute to know what she asked. Couldn't help the quiet chuckle that shook me. "Tara, don't reckon it was ever that good before. Honest. You were...amazin', 'specially for a first time." Now that was the gorram truth too.
[Tara] My face flushed even deeper and I wrapped my arm around his waist tighter, moving myself towards him even more. "Ok." I whispered softly, laying kisses over his chest and neck. "The captain won't...he's not going to m-miss you? I don't w-want to get you into any more trouble..." And I didn't want him to walk in and say something either.
[Jayne] She clung to me and I kinda liked it. Liftin' her a bit, I moved her so she was layin' on me, her head on my chest, and I just wrapped my arms 'round her and held her. "He probably won't talk to me for a few days, so I figure I'm safe. 'sides, Zoe would warn us, since she always knows what Mal's gonna do 'fore he does it." My fingers ran lightly through her hair. "Anyway, I wouldn't mind gettin' int'a trouble for you."
[Tara] He moved me like a ragdoll and it made me realize just how much stronger he was then me; it was nice to be comfortable like this and not be afraid that he was going to hurt me in any way. I lifted my head up from his chest and looked down at him. "I don't w-want you to get into trouble, Jayne. He doesn't...he doesn't want me here and I don't w-want to give him any more reasons.
[Jayne] Shakin' my head, I sighed. "You really gotta stop all the worryin'. It'll be ok. Just relax. 'sides, you look kinda sleepy," I said, kissin' her lips lightly. My hands ran over her back, and it was even hard for me to keep my eyes open anymore.
[Tara] I nodded and let him pull me closer, kissing him back lightly before I closed my eyes. "I am. S-so you'll stay? I whispered softly against his skin; hoping he'd stay with me for a while.
[Jayne] When she asked if I'd stay, I think I was hardly awake to even answer. I heard her, just was out of it. "Stay? Uhhuh. Just for tonight," my words were mumbled, 'n' I almost wished I could stay awake.
[Tara] I nodded, understanding for the moment and felt him pull me closer to him again. I smiled against his chest and pulled the blanket around us even more. "Ok." I think that maybe I can take this bit by bit. Even with it as new as it is. I tipped my face up and kissed his neck softly, feeling his pulse slow under my lips.