Title: The Line Author: Dani (meimei42) Setting: Post BDM Rating: PG Challenge: 132: Animals Disclaimer: I do not own

Author’s note: Not betaed. Established Simon/Kaylee. Short.

“Aw, come on Simon, it’ll be fun,” Kaylee laughed, tugging the doctor along with her as they walked. He tried not to sigh. Animals were not something that interested him. They were dirty and the smell was…well the smell was enough to turn anyone away. Anyone that was but small children and apparently Kaylee.

“They probably have fleas and a thousand other diseases,” Simon protested, seeing the petting zoo up ahead. He’d almost rather be out in the black in a space suit then here.

“Stop bein’ a spoil spot,” Kaylee scolded as they came to a stop at the end of the line.

“We have to wait to get in?” Simon asked incredulously. Kaylee swatted his shoulder and smiled up at him.

“Man’s gotta take our tickets after all,” she smiled. He sighed and wrapped his arms around her midsection, pulling her back against his chest as they waited. “Thank you, Simon,” she said, her head turning to the side so she could see him. He smiled and pressed his lips to hers.

“Anytime bao bei,” he replied. He could feel her snuggle closer to him as they waited. Maybe the petting zoo wouldn’t be so bad. As long as they didn’t touch the things they would be fine. It might even be fun. Just him and Kaylee and…

“This were the line starts?” a familiar voice interrupted. Kaylee turned and smiled up at Jayne who had gotten in line behind them. Simon suppressed a groan. Who needed a petting zoo when they had an untrained ape standing behind them?