( as they continued walking forward, she thought about his words a bit more before answering. in retrospect, yes two months and some time was barely anything at all for most people. for most adults where time went faster than when they were children, but to a woman like inara who was in control of every aspect of her life, who had gotten used to a specific routine aboard the serenity well...

it felt like a lifetime. especially being alone. perhaps that's why she reached out— because truthfully she didn't need to do that. she didn't need to make connections or friendships, she wasn't scouting for clients after all.

so what was she doing helping this stranger? was she truly that kind or perhaps the loneliness of being the only from from her world was eating at her. these were the thoughts she had as she looked at renoir with a soft gaze and nodded at his words. despite his peculiarities he seemed like a kind enough man. perhaps lost? she wasn't sure. )

It's been.....complicated. I think I've gotten myself wrapped up in some questionable affairs.

( a certain doctor came to mind but for now she simply smiled at him. )

But, rest assured most people here are very kind. There's no malice or ill will from most. You'll be safe here for the most part.