Like he'd even let her go again willingly. And best not to share the news about the Academy just yet; save it for when he can get properly intoxicated and go smash things.

He's the slow child, forgive him.

"River, I don't think--"

But then she's tugging him along, and Simon follows, easily enough; he can contact Inara later, try and find out what exactly set River off. It's easier to just follow, for now.