Inara: Good afternoon, Captain.
Mal: Morning. We’re downing, and in case that Wash don’t kill us all, local time’s going to be in the a.m., 10 or so.
Inara: Yes, I saw that.
Mal: Making plans? “Atherton Wing”. He’s a regular, ain’t he?
Inara: I’ve seen him before.
Mal: Oh, I never did. Not what I pictured – young. Must be rich too, to afford your rates.
Inara: I suppose. He has engaged me for several days.
Mal: Days!? Boy must have stamina.
Inara: (smiling) He does.
Mal: Well…fine. Is he letting you out at all?
Inara: Actually, we’re attending a ball tomorrow night.
Mal: Tell me, do all the men there pay for their dates, or just the young rich ones with stamina?
Inara: Most of the women in there will not be Companions, if that’s what you’re asking. Perhaps the other men couldn’t attract one.
Mal: Hmm. It’s sounds like the finest party I can imagine getting paid to go to.
Inara: I don’t suppose you’d find it up to standards of your outings. More conversation and somewhat less petty theft and getting hit with pool cues. (dismissing him) I understand if you need to go prepare for that “It’s 10 in the morning” issue.
Mal: Yeah. Better go do that. ‘Cause I think this is more of an evening look.
Firefly – Episode 4 – “Shindig”