“I wanna show ya how to tickle trout.” Vin said breathlessly.
Ezra looked up from where he had been busy applying a bite mark to the inside of Vin’s thigh.
“I trust that is not what you call what I am doing Mr. Tanner?”
Vin chuckled.
“Nah but what you’re doing with yer hand reminded me of it.”
He groaned as Ezra moved his hand more.
“I see. I think you are thinking too much.”
“Oh God.” Vin moaned as Ezra moved from his bite mark to more pressing matters.
Ezra raised from his position between Vin’s legs.
“I take that to mean you approve?” He smiled wickedly.
“Yesss.” Vin hissed as Ezra continued.
Ezra returned to the saloon after his patrol. A few people lingered there seeking a cooler spot than out in the hot sun. Even at 4 pm it was still warm. Hardly a breeze was stirring down the dusty streets.
Dusty indeed. Ezra brushed at his coat. He decided to take the time to make a stop at the bathhouse. He turned and headed back out the batwing doors and almost ran into Buck.
“Where ya headin’ pard? Wanna play some cards?”
“No thank you Mr. Wilmington. I’m going to the bathhouse.” He touched his hat and left.
Another bath? Buck thought as he sat down at what the men considered their table. He’d seen the kids take the tub up to Ezra’s room earlier. He grinned widely.
Ezra slipped quietly into his room a while later. Vin was lying naked on his side asleep, his back towards the door. He had one pillow clutched to his chest and the other under his ankle. Ezra put his revolver on the bedside table then hung his jacket on the end of the bed. He removed his sleeve rig and laid it on the top of the dresser, then moved to lock the door. He toed out of his boots and eased onto the bed. He moved so he was close to Vin but not touching. He ran his hand firmly but softly from Vin’s hip to shoulder. Vin stirred slightly. Ezra moved closer, molding himself to Vin’s back. He reached around and lightly stroked Vin’s chest. Vin moved back against him as he brushed his hand over his nipples. Vin turned slightly to give him greater access. Ezra smiled and kissed his shoulder as his hand trailed down Vin’s hard flat stomach.
Vin groaned softly but kept his eyes closed. Ezra shifted direction and ran his hand across Vin’s hip and down his thigh.
Tickling trout. Just what the hell was that? Ezra stifled a laugh.
Vin turned toward him then, opening his eyes and gazing into Ezra’s smoky green ones.
“Missed ya.” Vin said as he pulled Ezra into a soft deep kiss.
Vin rolled on top of Ezra with a grunt and began to trail kisses down Ezra’s neck.
“Think ya got too many clothes on Ez. Gonna have ta do somethin’ about it.”
Ezra ran his hands down Vin’s naked back, feeling the strong hard muscles and the bones of his spine. He followed that track down to Vin’s firm backside, which he squeezed.
“I am getting a bit flushed in all of this apparel.” Ezra’s voice came out huskily as Vin drew Ezra’s Adam’s apple into his mouth.
Vin sat on the side of the bed trying to button his shirt. Ezra had redressed into clean clothes. He smiled as he watched Vin struggling with the buttons. His shoulder was feeling better but his arm was still weak. Just then Vin’s stomach growled loudly. Ezra laughed.
“Did you get lunch Vin?”
“Yeah, ate with Josiah and Nathan. Just worked up an appetite.” He said then blushed profusely.
Gotta stop this damn blushin’!
“I see.”
Ezra tried not to blush himself. He knelt down to help Vin button his shirt.
“Let me help you.”
But instead of buttoning his shirt, Ezra moved his hands around Vin’s chest and ran them up and down his back. Lord he loved the feel of this man. He knew he was blushing again and pulled Vin towards him. Vin wrapped his arms around Ezra and held him tight.
“Can’t tell ya how happy I am Ez.” He whispered in Ezra’s ear.
“Not just when we’re alone like now or when we’re tuckered out from lovin’ each other fierce. But when we’re out in public and I glance over at ya and I think to myself ‘he’s mine’. “
He pushed back slightly so he could see into Ezra’s face.
“Am I makin’ sense?”
“Perfectly.” Ezra kissed him lightly. “And I feel the same way. In fact I would think the town is wondering why I have been grinning like – how did you say it? “A possum eating shit?”
Vin threw back his head and laughed. “Yeah that’s right Ez.”
He kissed Ezra soundly and then went back to work on his buttons.
“Gotta get some food in me Ez. I need ta keep up my strength.”
“More tickling trout?” Ezra said raising an eyebrow.
Vin laughed again. “Ain’t never gonna be able to say that again without thinkin’ about ya. I promise I’ll show ya what it really is.”
They both laughed as they headed out the door and down to saloon.
Chris entered the saloon after everyone else. He glanced at Vin but Vin did not look up. He figured Vin was still pissed. He hadn’t seen him all day. His eyes automatically went up to where Ezra’s room was. He tried not to let his anger show as he sat down.
“There ya are pard.” Buck said loudly. “Inez is bring us some grub!”
Chris had to smile at Buck’s enthusiasm. He knew Buck was trying to ease some of the tension that had filled the air when he arrived.
“Glad I got here before you could eat it all Buck.” He playfully shoved Buck’s shoulder.
“Hell Chris, I would have left ya somethin.”
“Don’t bet on that Chris.” JD piped up.
Buck made to bat JD’s hat and laughed when he ducked.
“How ya feeling Vin?” Chris said softly.
“Fine.” Vin kept his eyes on his beer.
Josiah, Nathan and Buck exchanged looks. No one knew what had happened between Chris and Vin but Vin obviously hadn’t forgiven him yet.
Chris nodded and sipped at the beer Josiah had handed him.
“I wanna take a look at ya later Vin. See how that wound looks.”
Vin rolled his eyes. “I’m fine Nate.”
Everyone chuckled.
“That mite be so but I’m still lookin’.”
“Is there something stronger you could give him for pain?”
Vin shot Ezra a look, which Ezra ignored.
“Yeah got somethin’ that mite help. He ain’t sleepin’ good?”
“No, and he is in some pain when he moves.”
“I am sittin’ here ya know.”
Ezra turned a wide smile to him. “Yes Mr. Tanner but since you are a man of few words I thought I would inform Mr. Jackson myself of your circumstances.”
Vin snorted and drank more of his beer.
“Well Nate ya mite want to take a look at Ez’s shoulder. He took bullet.”
Vin threw Ezra a triumphant smile as Nathan demanded he remove his jacket.
Josiah walked out onto the boardwalk. It was cooler now that the sun had set. A breeze moved tumbleweeds down the street. He saw Chris sitting at the end of the building, smoking a cheroot.
“Chris.”
Chris nodded and gestured to the chair beside him.
Josiah sat down with a small groan.
“Been sanding pews again preacher man?” Chris said with a grin.
“Idle hands Brother Chris. Idle hands.” Josiah said laughing.
They sat in silence for a few minutes. Josiah was trying to find a way to bring up whatever was bothering Chris but Chris beat him to it.
“I think I messed up Josiah.”
“How is that?”
Chris drew in a deep breath. He knew he wasn’t one to admit when he was wrong. Sarah had been the only one able to call him on it. He had a tendency to be… what was the word? Hard headed? Demanding? Arrogant? Bullheaded? Yeah all of those.
“I said some things to Vin. Stuff I had no business saying. Now I don’t know how to make it right.”
“Why don’t you just tell him that?”
Chris snorted. “Hell Josiah, you know Vin is as stubborn as I am.”
Josiah laughed softly. “Yes but Vin is a fair man. I’m sure he will give you a chance.”
Yes Chris had to agree with that. But how was he going to get Vin alone to talk to him? He wasn’t about to go up to Ezra’s room looking for him. Just thinking of Vin up there started his blood boiling. He had wanted to be the one to take care of Vin, Vin was his….. Shit. There he went again.
Josiah seemed to understand Chris’ silence.
“Why don’t I see if Vin would like to get some fresh air? He is probably feeling cooped up.”
Chris turned and smiled at Josiah. “Sounds like a good idea to me. Thanks Josiah.”
Josiah patted him on the shoulder and headed back inside. Ezra was playing cards with some cowboys that were passing through town and Vin was sitting at the next table, talking to Buck and JD.
“Vin? Want to sit outside for awhile? Get some fresh air?”
Vin looked up as Josiah approached the table. He knew Josiah had been outside talking to Chris. He had seen them outside through the windows. He glanced over at Ezra. Ezra appeared to be engrossed in his card game but he looked up and met Vin’s eyes. He gave a small nod and then went back to his game.
“Alright. Need ta stretch my legs a bit.”
He picked up the cane he’d leaned against the table and stood up. He walked slowly to the batwing doors and outside. He stood a minute allowing his eyes to adjust to the darkness. He took a deep breath. He could smell rain coming. The breeze was cool and damp. He turned and looked toward Chris.
Chris was surprised that Vin had agreed to come outside. He moved a chair closer to the railing. Vin hobbled over and moved it further from Chris and sat down. He raised his leg and sat it on the railing.
“Ya gonna sit down Josiah?”
“No Vin, I think I’ll take a little stroll first.” He nodded to the men and headed down the boardwalk towards the cigar shop.
Chris and Vin sat quietly for a few minutes. Where before the silence between them was easy, this time it was strained.
“Vin, I said some things I had no business saying.”
“Yep.”
Chris mentally groaned. Vin was not going to make things easier.
“I didn’t mean that you lied to me. You’re right, I have no say in who your friends are or what you do. It’s just….” Chris paused trying to think of the right words.
“It’ll sound stupid, but I was worried that you wouldn’t want me as a friend any more, that you’d replaced me.” He said the last part quietly.
Vin sat there not saying anything. He’d thought Chris had been thinking along those lines. He didn’t know how Chris or the others would take it once they found out the true nature of his and Ezra’s friendship. He had an idea that Josiah and Buck already knew and had no problem with it.
“Ain’t tryin’ ta trade ya in Chris. Don’t see no reason why I can’t be better friends with Ez.”
Chris breathed a sigh of relief. “No reason at all cowboy.”
Vin nodded. That was settled, or he hoped so. He wasn’t going to tolerate Chris’ shabby treatment of Ezra anymore. They sat there in a peaceful silence this time. They heard boots and turned to see Nathan coming back.
“Got ya somethin’ a little stronger, no it don’t taste bad so wipe that look off your face.”
Chris laughed and Vin looked doubtful.
“Ain’t tasted nothin’ ya make that tastes good Nate.”
“Want me to take this upstairs for ya?” Nathan held up a large brown bottle.
“Nah, just give it ta Ez. I’m gonna sit out here awhile longer.”
Nathan nodded and headed inside.
Chris re-lit his cheroot and leaned back in his chair. That went better than I thought.
“Everything okay Vin?”
Ezra came up to the room awhile later. Vin was sitting on the bed, he had a piece of paper in his hand and was writing something. He looked up and smiled as Ezra closed the door.
“Yeah, had a talk with Chris. He apologized.”
Ezra raised both eyebrows and Vin laughed.
“Didn’t think he could do it either Ez. But he did.”
“So everything is okay now?”
“Hope so.”
He folded the paper he had been writing on and slipped it in his book of poems. Ezra didn’t ask about it but took the book from him and placed it back in a dresser drawer. He removed his jacket and hung it in the closet.
He placed the revolver back by the door and turned to lock that. He went and opened the window a little wider. A soft rain had started to fall and the breeze smelled fresh. Ezra sat in the rocker leaning his head back and closed his eyes.
He felt deadened. He had known Chris had wanted to talk to Vin and what it was about but it had worried him nonetheless. They hadn’t spoken of telling the others about their growing commitment but he had been secretly afraid that it would come up. And he knew what Mr. Larabee’s reaction to that would be. He thought that Josiah and maybe Buck knew but he could pick up no abhorrence from either man.
Vin stared at Ezra wondering what was wrong. He thought Ezra would be happy that Chris was no longer mad.
“Ez?”
“Yes?” Ezra still did not open his eyes.
“Ya alright?”
Ezra sighed deeply, which worried Vin. He sat there a few minutes longer before sighing again and getting up.
“I’m fine.”
Vin watched him closely as he walked back around the bed. He removed his boots, placing them at the foot of the bed. He slowly undressed, putting his clothes carefully away until all he wore was his cotton drawers.
Vin was already naked under the covers. Nathan had helped him upstairs earlier and he had undressed while waiting for Ezra. He moved over so Ezra could slide in.
Ezra laid on the edge of the bed, his back towards Vin. He didn’t know why but he felt hollow inside, as if he had already lost Vin and was just waiting for him to disappear. He squeezed his eyes tight forcing back the tears he felt building.
Ez darlin’ emotions are for weak fools and we are never that, he could hear his mother’s voice ringing in his head. Tears are for powerless and we are always in control. Well he didn’t feel in control now.
Vin wasn’t sure what was the matter with Ezra but he knew Ezra would tell him sooner or later. So in the meantime he would just show Ezra how much he loved him. He moved so he was molded to Ezra’s back. Ezra stiffened slightly but Vin slowly rubbed his hand up and down Ezra’s chest, whispering reassurances in his ear. Slowly he felt him relax and he pulled Ezra closer to him.
“Love ya Ez.” He whispered in his ear.
Ezra clutched Vin’s hand tightly.
Ezra couldn’t sleep. He felt Vin relaxing behind him and he knew he had fallen asleep. He had seen the bottle of tonic on the dresser and hoped Vin had taken some. He wished he could sleep. He wished he could stop these insane thoughts from chasing around in his head. He figured he was being stupid, he prayed he was. But he had no experience in relationships. And relationships that everyone would be against and was against the law, how the hell did one handle that? You love him. A voice said in his head.
Well he knew he loved Vin. What help was that? He grumbled at the
voice.
You just love him, for as long as possible. He took a long breath. He
guessed that was good advice. He would love Vin for as long as Vin would
let him, fight for him if and when that time came and when Vin decided he
no longer loved him, well he would deal with that when the time came.
He rolled over carefully. Vin adjusted as he moved, so he was draped over Ezra’s chest. Ezra ran his hands smoothly through Vin’s hair. He loved the feel of it, long and silky. Vin’s hand moved to pull Ezra closer and he made a small sound of contentment but did not wake up. Ezra moved one hand to lazily stroke Vin’s back while the other played with his hair. He hadn’t meant to wake Vin, but one sleepy blue eye opened to look at him.
“Mmmm?” He said sleepily.
“Go back to sleep Vin.” He smiled reassuringly.
Vin smiled back.
“Got other things on my mind ‘sides sleep.”
And he moved to kiss Ezra, softly at first but then hungrily as each man tried to pledge their love to the other without words.
“I’m sorry.” Ezra said softly later.
Ezra now lay on Vin’s chest, he could hear his heart pounding loudly in his ear, just as he could feel his own heart thumping under his ribs. They were both still breathless.
“Fer what?”
Vin stroked Ezra’s back, his turn to enjoy the feel of hard muscles and satiny skin. Ezra reminded him of velvet in a lot of ways. He’d only felt it once but knew as soon as he touched Ezra that that was how his skin felt. Velvety.
“For my earlier demeanor.”
“Wanna talk about it?” Vin continued his slow caress.
“I was simply being…foolish.”
“Don’t know about that. Iffen somethin’s bothin’ ya, I’d like to know. Can’t fix it iffen ya don’t tell me.”
Vin paused and then continued.
“Ya can always talk to me Ez. Hope ya know that. No matter what.”
Ezra closed his eyes and inhaled the earthy smell that was Vin. He was right. The quickest way to ruin something between them was silence.
“I was concerned earlier about your talk with Chris.”
Ezra paused and Vin continued his caresses but made his touch firm and solid.
“At first I wondered if perhaps Mr. Larabee had guessed the nature of our, relationship, but as I heard no shouting I realized that assessment was wrong.”
Vin allowed himself a little chuckle.
Ezra smiled ruefully against Vin’s chest.
“Then I began to wonder what will happen when the others find out. And I began to feel melancholy at the thought that I cannot show how much I love you for fear others would not approve. And I began to wonder if that is fair to you. You deserve a normal loving relationship Vin, a family. I imagine that would be important to you. Then I started thinking about when our relationship ends and how despondent I will be.”
Ezra was silent then.
Vin didn’t say anything. He wasn’t sure what all the words meant that Ezra had said but he got the idea.
“Don’t care what the others think. Ain’t their business nor no one else’s. What we got is between us. I’d like ta hold yer hand and kiss ya where everyone can see. But as long as I have ya I don’t care if anyone else knows. I figure as long as ya love me back that’s plenty fair.”
He moved so he could look Ezra in the face.
“We got a normal lovin’ relationship Ez. We’re the same down deep where it matters. You’re all the family I want. If the others wanna be part of our family then all the better. And iffen I got a say in this we ain’t ending, not till we’re laid out, boots up.”
He smiled and rubbed his hand across Ezra’s cheek. He could feel the stubble of his whiskers.
Ezra couldn’t believe he had ever thought Vin was a man of few words and probably not very articulate. Vin constantly amazed him. And he hoped he continued to amaze him for many years.
“Have I told you today Mr. Tanner how very much I love you?”
“Nope.” Vin smiled that wide beautiful smile of his. “I don’t think ya have.”
“Well I love you very much. And you constantly amaze me.”
“Gotta keep ya on your toes Ez.”
He captured Ezra’s lips in a passionate kiss. As he rolled Ezra over onto his back he said, “And I love ya too.”
Vin woke as the sun was rising. He could see the top of Ezra’s head tucked under his chin. They were lying in each other’s arms, arms and legs entangled. Damn fine way to wake up. He snuggled closer and tightened his arms around Ezra. He thought about some of the things Ezra had said the night before. He hoped the others accepted them being together, when they decided to tell them. He thought Buck and Josiah might have figured it out. He wasn’t worried about JD. But he wasn’t sure how Chris and Nathan would react. Neither man had high opinions of Ezra.
But that didn’t bother him. It didn’t matter to him if they approved. As long as Ezra loved him that was all he needed. And if they had to leave town, well that didn’t bother him either.
Ezra stirred and Vin eased his tense hold. He settled closer to Ezra and fell back to sleep.
Ezra woke sometime later. It had started to rain again. The sky was darkening so he wasn’t sure what time it was. He groaned to himself. Chris had told him he had morning patrol after Vin had gone upstairs last night. Normally Vin took this shift and since he had been gone, Chris had been taking it. He hadn’t mentioned it to Vin but he did not think Chris’ opinion of him had changed in light of his apology to Vin.
He extricated himself from Vin’s arms, wishing he could lay here with him on this rainy morning. He tried to quietly dress but Vin was a light sleeper.
“Where ya goin’ Ez? Come back ta bed.”
Ezra bent down and kissed him soundly, pulling back as Vin tried to draw him back to bed.
“I am afraid I can’t darlin’. I have patrol this morning.”
Vin flushed with pleasure at the endearment from Ezra. He didn’t think Ezra was aware he’d said it. But then he frowned as he realized what else he had said.
“Whadda ya mean, patrol? Ya never have mornin’ patrol.”
“Never say never.”
“You didn’t mention ya had patrol last night?”
Ezra shrugged. He decided not to worry with the sleeve rig this time. He doubted many people would be foolish enough to be out in this weather. He looked at the window as he heard the rain start to lash against it. Wonderful. He turned to smile at Vin.
“Go back to sleep. I’ll be back later.”
He pulled on his jacket and then his rain slicker. He buckled his gun belt on and then bent to give Vin another kiss. Vin raised his hand to Ezra’s neck and tugged him back down for a long, deep kiss.
They both sighed.
“See ya later Ez.”
Ezra smiled, turned and left.
Vin threw off the covers as soon as he heard Ezra’s boots go down the hall.
Damn Chris ta hell. He couldn’t believe he’d assigned Ezra the shift he knew Chris had been takin’ since he’d been gone. And he knew it was for spite. Here he thought they had settled things and then he turns around and pulls this. He got up and dressed as quickly as he could. He didn’t want Ezra to catch him downstairs. He glanced out the window and after a few minutes he saw Ezra splashing down the street on Royal.
He limped down the hall towards the steps. There he saw Chris sitting at the table, drinking coffee. Was that a smirk on his face? He started down the steps and kept his eyes glued to Chris. He was pleased to see a startled look cross Chris’ face and then wariness.
“Morning Cowboy. You feeling better?” Chris asked nervously. Vin looked like a wolf about to attack. All he needed was a snarling lip.
“Why the hell did ya send Ez out this mornin’?” Vin jumped right in.
“Didn’t know I had to ask you first before I assigned patrol?”
Chris had thought they had worked things out. Now Vin was down here yelling at him.
“I know for a fact Chris that you have been takin’ mornin’ patrol so why the sudden change?”
Vin was happy to see the guilty look on Chris’ face. Just what he thought.
“Thought we had things settled? Thought ya said ya didn’t have a problem with me and Ez.”
“I don’t.” But Chris wouldn’t look at him. He glared into his coffee cup.
Ezra was furious. He hadn’t been too hopeful that things would get better soon between him and Chris but he hadn’t expected they would get worse. He’d seen the smug look on Chris’ face when Chris told him as he was heading to bed that he, Ezra would be taking morning patrol. He’d smirked!
And Chris had been smirking this morning, waiting for him when he’d come down for breakfast. Ezra pulled his hat lower over his face. The rain was whipped in all directions by the blustering wind. He should be in bed, wrapped warmly around Vin. Visions of that brought a smile to his face. But it didn’t last long. Up ahead he could see the Little Creek, which was no longer little or a creek. The water had come out of its bank several feet on each side and was choked with debris. The normally tranquil creek was turbulent. He brought Royal to a stop. He shook his head. He knew he should turn and go back. There wasn’t a way around this. The creek ran in a semi circle around the town, connecting with other creeks and streams. But the thought of the look that Chris would give him if he came back early – well he knew it would be more than a look. No, he wouldn’t give Chris Larabee that satisfaction. Chris lived for the days he could belittle Ezra over something, anything. And now lately, well Ezra didn’t think Chris was attracted to men but he sure acted like Vin was his property.
Ezra swung out of the saddle. He wasn’t going to risk Royal to this rushing water. He lightly held Royal’s reins and stepped into the water. Even on the shallow edge he could feel the strength and power of the water grabbing at his boots. He slowly made his way forward then suddenly stepped on a rock that was submerged under the water. He tried to regain his balance by gripping Royal’s reins but the water was too swift. He was knocked off his feet and carried swiftly down stream. Royal lost his footing and also swept away.
Vin sat huddled on the boardwalk trying to stay dry and still see down the road. The usually dusty street was now a giant mud puddle. The heavy rain had ended, Deluge Vin thought, now it was just a drizzle. Ezra had been due back an hour ago. Josiah had tried to reassure him that Ezra was probably only delayed due to the weather and Vin had known that might be true. But he had a terrible feeling inside that something was wrong. He stood. He saw a rider coming. Hell too big for Ezra. And the man was leading another horse. Wait a minute. That was Royal. He could see now as they drew closer. Yosemite, the man who worked at the livery was leading Royal who was limping. Vin could see his front leg was wrapped with a bandage. Vin moved to the edge of the boardwalk.
“Hey, where’d ya get Ezra’s horse?”
Yosemite drew the horses to a halt in front of the saloon.
“Found him headin back ta town about 10 miles out. He had a cut on his leg so I wrapped it. No sign of Ezra. I looked.”
No sign of Ezra. The words kept echoing in his head.
Chris had been keeping an eye on Vin through the batwing doors. He had gotten up when he heard Vin yell to Yosemite so he heard the conversation.
Damn. What had happened? He knew Royal wouldn’t have left Ezra if he wasn’t forced to.
Vin turned then and gave Chris such a look full of hate that Chris stepped back involuntarily. Vin turned again and headed across the street towards the jail, picking his way painstakingly through the water and mud with his cane.
He found Buck and JD in the jail, playing a game of cards.
“Yosemite found Ezra’s horse. I’m heading out ta look if ya wanna come. JD, would ya find Josiah and Nathan, ask them?”
Buck and JD froze at first at Vin’s words. Then they sprang into action.
“I’ll find Josiah and Nathan, JD you go to the livery and start saddling the horses.”
JD nodded and was out the door. Vin turned to leave.
“Don’t worry Vin, we’ll find him.”
“Thanks Buck.”
Chris watched as Vin made his way back across the street. He saw Buck and JD heading towards the livery.
“Vin you stay here. We’ll go out looking.” He said as Vin came back inside the saloon. Vin was wet and his moccasins were muddy.
“No.”
“Vin, there is no since in you going too. We can handle it.”
“I said no. I ain’t trustin’ ya to find Ez.”
Chris was shocked. Did Vin think he wouldn’t look?
“What is wrong with you Vin? You’ve been acting strange lately. Why are you so worried about Ezra all of a sudden?”
“Cause I love him that’s why.” Vin shouted. “Just like Buck loves you.”
He turned and headed up the stairs.
Chris stood there with his mouth hanging open.
What? Vin and Ezra? And what was that about Buck? Buck didn’t love him. Well not like Vin had implied that he loved Ezra. Loved Ezra? How long had that been going on? That explained some things though. Buck?
Buck was his oldest friend, he loved him like a brother, right?
Chris stood there lost in thought until Josiah came bursting through the batwings.
“What is Ezra doing out on a day like this?
“He was on patrol.”
“Patrol? You don’t ask us to go out in weather like this unless…”
Josiah narrowed his eyes.
“You made him go out didn’t you?”
When Chris wouldn’t answer he continued.
“Is Vin upstairs?”
Chris nodded.
Josiah gave him another hard look and went up to Ezra’s room.
Ezra’s door was ajar but Josiah knocked lightly and opened it further. Vin turned to see who it was.
“Don’t try and talk me out of goin’ Josiah.”
“I’m not.”
“Chris didn’t send ya?”
“No, I came to help you get ready.”
Vin smiled and nodded.
“Thanks Josiah. I owe ya.”
“No you don’t Vin, I love him too.”
“Come on then, we’re burning daylight.”
Buck, JD and Nathan tied the horses in front of the saloon. Josiah helped Vin mount and they all headed out of town. Vin led the way. He figured the fastest way to find Ezra was to follow the route he had taken. An hour later they came to Little Creek, more swollen now from the rain and runoff.
Ezra would have turned back. Must 've missed something.
Vin turned Peso and then stopped. There on the ground was Ezra’s hat. He hadn’t noticed it at first because it was muddy and covered with leaves. He dismounted and limped over to it. Vin picked up the hat, turning it over in his hands.
Where are ya Ez? What happened? He didn’t want to believe that Ezra would have tried to cross the swollen creek. But if he had turned around then chances were he’d have made it back to town. But if he had tried to cross this creek.
The others stayed back while Vin stood there thinking. No one wanted to disturb him. But they all wondered the same thing, had Ezra tried to cross and gotten swept downstream?
Vin nodded to himself turned back to Peso. He tucked Ezra’s hat into his saddlebag then stepped back up into the saddle. He nudged Peso and they headed downstream.
JD was the first to see the rain slicker. He yelled to get Vin’s attention.
“Vin! Ain’t that Ezra’s slicker, out in the water?”
Vin, who had been near the water’s edge, looked up. There a few yards down from where they were, something was hung up on a rock. Vin and the rest moved closer.
“Yeah,” Vin said softly “That’s Ezra’s.”
They all started searching the bank.
Ezra came to lying on the muddy bank. He coughed and vomited half the Mississippi by his calculations. He couldn’t tell if he was injured. He was cold and stiff from the frigid water and cool temperatures. He lay there a few minutes planning ways on dismembering Chris Larabee. Since that pleasure would have to wait until he returned to town, he slowly got to his feet. His head throbbed. He rubbed the back of it and felt a large sore knot. He pulled his hand away, blood. Lovely. Nothing seemed to be broken but his arm was sore. He imagined he had more bruises to add to his collection. And if he was correct, he was now on the opposite side of the stream.
Another marvelous day.
He decided to head back upstream. He figured Vin would start looking for him along the patrol route. He looked around. No sign of his hat or slicker.
Not that he could get much wetter than he was. At least he still had his gun.
He turned and headed back the way he had come.
“Getting’ dark. Guess we better camp here.”
Vin wearily got out of the saddle. He didn’t want to stop but was afraid he would miss something in the dark. And if Ezra was unconscious or….. He stopped his mind from carrying on with that thought.
The other men dismounted. They hadn’t been able to travel far. The flooded area was treacherous and they couldn’t move fast. It was impossible to tell how deep the water that overflowed the bank was or what was underneath. They were all frustrated that they hadn’t gotten farther downstream. Just where was Ezra?
Ezra couldn’t walk any further. He had a blinding headache and had to keep stopping to throw up. He felt horrible. He was alternately hot and cold. Right now he was freezing and all his supplies were in his saddlebags. He hoped Royal was all right. He loved that horse. He moved up further from the bank into a small grove of trees. He huddled under some brush trying to get warm. Couldn’t he ever get stranded somewhere warm?
He woke later in the night. Or at least he thought he was awake. Clouds obscured the moon, throwing strange shadows over the ground. He was burning up. Hot. HOTHOTHOT. How the hell had it gotten so hot? He laughed at his own joke. How the hell indeed! He snickered. He took his jacket off, tossing it down toward the stream. Stream. Maybe he should go down and cool off in the water? No, the water was filthy. He laughed out loud. Don’t want to get any dirtier than I am. He was thirsty. Water, water everywhere and not a drop to drink. He threw back his head laughing again.
JD was on watch. He was sitting further downstream not far from camp. He idly twirled his gun, holstering and drawing it. He pretended he was in a gunfight.
“On the count of three…..one….two….”
He drew his gun. “Bang!”
He grinned and twirled his guns. He froze. Had he heard something? Laughter? He slowly crept further from camp, listening hard. Nothing.
Vin woke at dawn. He went down to the stream to look around. The water hadn’t receded, in fact he thought it might be higher. He pulled out his spyglass to look around. Nothing. Where was Ezra? He lowered the glass and was turning back to camp when something red caught his eye. He placed the spyglass to his eye and searched the opposite bank. There half way down the bank was Ezra’s red jacket.
“Ezra!” He shouted, moving the spyglass to check out the area.
“EZRA!”
The other men hurried to him.
“Do you see him Vin?” Josiah looked out into the water.
Vin handed him the glass.
“I think that’s his jacket, there on the other side, halfway up the bank.”
Josiah nodded as he too searched the bank. “I think your right.”
“Damn.” Buck kicked at the ground. “How the hell are we gonna get over there?”
“Can you see him?” JD asked worriedly. He squinted across the water but couldn’t see anything.
“What is that further up?” Josiah handed the glass back to Vin. “See that flash of white? Under those trees.”
Vin frantically examined the area Josiah had pointed out. He did see something white but it wasn’t moving. He walked closer to the water and when he still couldn’t see, he walked into it until he was knee deep, he maneuvered farther downstream.
“Careful Vin.” Nathan came behind him to steady him. “That water is still moving fast.”
“I think it’s him. He ain’t moving but I think it’s him.”
Chris pulled out a cheroot and lit it. He scanned the bank on both sides, up and down stream.
“We ain’t getting across here. We haven’t passed any spots that look any better. I think some of us need to head further downstream. See if there’s a easier way.”
They all nodded.
“Half of us stay here, keep an eye on where we’ve spotted him. The others will go and try to cross.”
“I’m going.” Vin said quickly.
Chris nodded. “Nathan, you and Josiah go too. We’ll stay here so you’ll know where to look once you get to the other side.”
Ezra was too weak to get up. In fact he didn’t care if he ever got up again. He had thrown up until there was nothing left but still he heaved. He was freezing. He didn’t know where his coat was or what had happened to it. He tried to open his eyes but the light was blinding, it shot daggers into his brain. He thought lying there and dying was a good plan. In fact didn’t he have his gun? That would be quicker and maybe even warmer. Yes a nice hot bullet, that might relieve the pressure in his head. He was sure his brain had swollen. He fumbled for his gun but couldn’t get the it out of the holster, the leather was wet from his being in the water. Damn it to hell.
He was sure that would have helped him feel better. He passed out again.
Vin cursed. This whole thing was taking way too long. They had been traveling downstream for two hours and had yet to come to a passable area.
He was ready to swim across if they didn’t find a place soon.
“Vin, I think this spot looks good.” Nathan called from up ahead.
Vin spurred Peso. Nathan was at a wide section of the stream. They could see rocks jutting out, the water was calmer here.
“Think so Nate.”
Vin got ready to dismount.
“I don’t think so Vin. You stay on Peso, we will lead you across.” Josiah dismounted and seized Peso’s reins.
“I ain’t helpless.” Vin fumed.
“We know that, but we’ll get across faster than you can on that ankle.”
Vin knew Nathan was right so said nothing but he felt stupid sitting on Peso while they walked. Josiah and Nathan picked their way carefully across.
Vin took a deep breath willing himself not to scream out his rage.
It took almost another two hours to work their way up the opposite back towards where they had left the others. They were further inland on this side and were not sure if they had bypassed where they thought Ezra might be. Vin pulled up Peso.
“Not sure how far we’ve come. We need to signal the others, find out where we are.”
Josiah nodded in agreement. Vin unsheathed his Winchester and fired off a round. A few seconds later there was an answering shot. It was to the left of them and slightly ahead. They angled the horses towards the water.
Ezra thought he heard gunfire. Where in God’s name am I? Was he back in St. Louis? That must be it. He remembered his mother tossing him out of the wagon as they sped out of town. The law was looking for two people, a man and a woman and she didn’t intend on getting caught. He turned over and tried to get to his feet. He must get off the road.
Vin caught a flash of white. He urged Peso forward.
“There, by those trees. Is that him Josiah?”
Vin tried to quickly dismount but Josiah and Nathan were quicker. Nathan reached Ezra first.
“He’s alive. He’s burning up with fever. Josiah get my canteen.”
Josiah grabbed the canteen and helped Vin to Ezra’s side. The area was covered in brush. Nathan lifted Ezra’s head.
“Ezra, drink this.”
Ezra mumbled and tried to push his hand away but drank some as Nathan poured some water into his mouth.
“Ez? Can ya hear me? It’s Vin. Josiah and Nathan are here too.”
“Vin?” Ezra said his voice weak.
He tried to clear his throat but it was raw from vomiting. Nathan gave him some more to drink.
“Yeah Ez, it’s me.”
“Vin’s not here. He left and I’m not telling you were he is.” Ezra said defiantly.
Nathan shook his head at the look on Vin’s face.
“I think he’ll be alright. It’s the fever talking. We need ta get him back to town.”
“IS HE ALL RIGHT?”
Chris’ voice floated over the water. Josiah went down to the water’s edge.
“He has a fever and is out of it. We need to get back to town.” Josiah said, his booming voice easily crossing the water.
Chris nodded. It would take too long for them to bring Ezra back the way they had gotten there.
“I think if you head North you can cross the Twin Forks. That’s usually a trickle this time of year. Might not have flooded too bad.”
Josiah waved that he understood.
“We’ll meet you back in town.”
“I’m hot!”
Ezra was riding with Josiah. He was slowly stripping out of his clothes and tossing them off the horse. Nathan rode behind, stopping to pick up the discarded items.
“Son, you need to keep your clothes on!” Josiah said firmly, trying to stop Ezra from pulling off his shirt. Jacket and vest had already bit the dust, or mud as it was.
“It is HOT! - as hell, Hades and those other….hot places.”
Vin tried not to laugh at the sight as the bear of a man struggled with Ezra, who was dwarfed in front of him. Ezra seemed to have grown several extra arms.
“What are you laughing at?” Josiah demanded. He glared at Vin and Nathan.
“He’s right Vin. We need ta keep him warm. Not have him riding around nekked.”
Vin sighed and moved Peso closer to Josiah.
“Hold him still a minute Josiah.”
Josiah wrapped his arms tightly around Ezra.
“I’m sorry Ezra.” Vin said and then hit him with a right cross.
Ezra was out like a light.
Josiah grinned down at Ezra’s still body.
“Nice shot Vin.”
Ezra knew he was dying. But it was not going to be a quick painless death, or a heroic one. No, that was not in the cards for Ezra P. Standish. This was to be a slow, painful and humiliating death. He made a quick grab for the metal basin and vomited.
“Mr. Tanner, if you are indeed my friend you will end my suffering.”
Ezra called from inside the outhouse.
Vin smiled ruefully from where he leaned against the side.
“Sorry Ez, can’t do it.”
“Oh, you are perfectly capable of nearly knocking my head off but you cannot spare one bullet to end my misery?”
He threw up again loudly. Ezra kicked the outhouse door open and slung the contents out. He groaned as his guts cramped and twisted.
“Nate says you’ll be feelin’ better soon. It’s just that nasty water ya swallowed.”
“I believe that vile concoction he is forcing me to consume is made from the very same water.”
Vin chuckled.
“I’m purty sure it ain’t Ez. Just seems that way.”
“Just seems that way.” Ezra muttered loudly from behind the now closed door.
Vin smirked good-naturedly. Ezra kicked the door open, adjusting his clothes.
“They really need better ventilation in there. That place reeks of shit.”
Vin fell against the outhouse holding his sides, doubled over with laughter. Ezra cocked an eyebrow at him.
“You find that funny?”
Vin cuddled close behind Ezra. He lightly stroked Ezra’s stomach. He had finally gotten Ezra to take some laudanum that Nathan had left to sooth his stomach and gut. He nuzzled the back of Ezra’s neck.
“Glad ta have ya back here safe Ez.” He pulled him closer. “Feel like nothing can hurt us when we’re in here.”
Ezra rubbed his hand against Vin’s. “I feel that way too. Maybe we should just stay in here awhile. Trouble seems to find us out there.”
They both chuckled.
“Sounds like a plan to me Ez.”
Chris sat out on the boardwalk, enjoying the quiet and coolness of the early morning. He hadn’t gotten much sleep. He had spent the night thinking of all Vin had said and of the last few days. He knew he had overreacted and he wanted to make it up to both of them. He had also been thinking about what Vin said regarding Buck. Why would Vin say that Buck loved him? Had Buck said something? He had kept a close eye on Buck to see if he saw any signs of him feeling anything except friendship. And what if he had? How would he react if he knew that Buck had feelings for him? He was surprised to find that the thought didn’t upset him like he would have imagined. He had known Buck for over 10 years. He’d known him before Sarah and they had remained close friends all during his marriage. It was only after his family’s death that he had started to push Buck away. He had been hurting so badly that he struck out at everyone and Buck was the perfect target. He had been the one to cut all ties with Buck and he had been glad when they had finally met up again in Four Corners. Buck knew him better than anyone alive and put up with all his moods. And if he was truly honest he cared more for Buck than mere friendship. Maybe he should do something about that.
“You told Mr. Larabee what?”
Ezra and Vin were sitting outside the Saloon. Ezra still wasn’t able to keep much down and felt weak. Vin’s shoulder was still sore and he had his ankle up on the railing. They had decided they need a little fresh air. Vin smiled shyly.
“Told him Buck loved him like I love you.”
Ezra shook his head. “What on earth possessed you to say that Vin?”
Vin shrugged. “Just came out. Now that I think on it, I reckon it’s true. Just somethin’ I feel.”
Ezra smiled over at him and stroked his leg. He glanced around but he didn’t think anyone had noticed. Most people hurried to wherever they were going and didn’t pay them much attention.
“My little match maker. You know Mr. Tanner, I would dearly love to manhandle you right now and kiss you senseless.”
Vin blushed profusely and beamed.
“Don’t make me get out of this chair Ez.” He reached over and briefly squeezed Ezra’s hand.
“Hey Vin, Ezra you seen Buck? I can’t find him no where?”
JD came stomping down the boardwalk.
“No JD, ain’t seen him in awhile. Anything important?”
“Nah, well think I’ll head over and see Casey. Her and Miss Nettie are over at the General Store.” He turned and headed across the street.
Chris stared into liquid brown eyes, the color of chocolate. Funny how he had never noticed that before. He waited, looking for a sign either of violence or submission. Suddenly he was seized by a pair of strong arms and slammed against the door of his room. His mouth was captured in a hard searching kiss and he was the one to surrender. His hands roamed to touch and explore every part of Buck that he could reach and Buck’s hands were not idle either. Chris pulled Buck’s hips to his, grinding their groins together. They both moaned their pleasure. Chris reached back and locked the door and then pushed Buck back, edging them to the bed where they both fell, Chris draped over Buck’s long hard body. They wasted no time undressing each other. Chris had the fleeting thought of how wonderful Buck’s mouth and mustache felt against his skin and then he was lost in the sensations.
“Good Lord.”
Ezra’s mouth hung open as he saw Chris and Buck enter the Saloon later. Vin glanced over at them and back at Ezra.
“What?”
“ I swear I saw bite marks on Mr. Larabee and Mr. Wilmington’s necks!”
“What!? Yer kiddin’?”
“I am most certainly not! I have become quite proficient in the making of said marks and I know what they look like.” Ezra grinned over at Vin who flushed red.
“Yeah ya do Ez. And I sure ain’t complain’.”
He reached over and quickly ran his hand up Ezra’s thigh to his crotch. Ezra drew his breath in as a hiss. Vin laughed.
“I think we better go look.”
“Indeed Mr. Tanner.”
They hobbled their way into the Saloon where Chris and Buck were now seated at what they all considered their table. Vin walked up to the table grinning. He stopped beside Chris and then tugged at the collar of his own shirt. Chris threw him a blank look and then comprehension dawned on him. He looked shocked, looked at Buck and then grabbed his own collar. Buck busted out laughing and nodded. They both quickly button their shirts all the way up. Ezra helped Vin to get settled in a chair while they tried their best not to laugh. Inez came over and brought two more beers.
“What is the so funny Senors?” She said smiling at them.
Ezra choked on his beer as he saw a blush creep up Chris’ neck. Mr. Larabee blushes? Will wonders never cease? He nudged Vin’s elbow and discreetly nodded his head in Chris’ direction. Vin’s smile grew even wider.
“Nothin’ darlin’, Vin was just tellin’ us one of JD’s terrible jokes.”
Inez nodded knowingly and headed back behind the bar.
Everyone was quiet after she left, all intent on studying their beers.
“Want to thank you Vin.” Chris said quietly. “If you hadn’t said something then Buck and I…” He paused and looked up at Buck. Buck grinned back at him. “And I want to say I’m sorry Ezra, to you and Vin. I had no right to act they way I did.”
“No need to apologize Mr. Larabee.”
“What Ez means is we accept.” Vin looked sternly at Ezra.
Chris did need to apologize and it wasn’t all right for the way he had acted. Ezra smiled and inclined his head to Vin. He discreetly placed a hand under the table and ran his hand up Vin’s leg. Vin’s eyes turned dark and passionate. Buck cleared his throat and they both jumped.
“Like Chris was saying, we wanna thank ya. If you hadn’t said something to Chris, why then he would never have confronted me and…” It was Buck’s turn to look across at Chris and his face softened. “Well thanks.”
“Glad to be of help pard. Hope y’all are as happy as we are.”
“If there is some way we can thank you…” Chris began.
“Why yes there is Mr. Larabee. How about no more morning patrols for myself or Mr. Tanner for awhile?”
All men laughed. “I think that can be arranged Ezra.”
“Since that matter is settled, Mr. Tanner would you care to retire with me upstairs?” Ezra held his arm out to Vin.
“I’d be delighted Mr. Standish.”
Buck and Chris laughed as Ezra helped Vin up the steps. Ezra leaned to whisper in Vin’s ear.
“After viewing Mr. Wilmington’s attempts at passion marks, I feel the need to practice.”
“MMmmmmm. I think that is a mighty fine idea Ez. Been thinking on some spots I ain’t tried out yet either.”
“Well Vin, it sounds like it is going to be a long and satisfying night.”
Vin gently shoved Ezra into the room as soon as the door was open. Ezra reached around him to lock the door and wrestled Vin out of his buckskin coat, throwing it to the floor. He placed his arms around Vin’s waist and taking the cane from his hand, tossed it to the floor. He drew Vin closer nibbling his way down Vin’s neck and moving him slowly backward to the bed. He undid Vin’s pants, shoving them down his legs, careful of his ankle. Vin pushed Ezra’s jacket off and began to unbutton his shirt as Ezra lowered him to the bed. He moaned as Ezra marked his neck. They were soon undressed and Ezra moved to straddle Vin.
“Ez.” He groaned as Ezra’s hand traveled up his chest.
“Yes?” Ezra followed his hands with kisses.
“I think my luck just changed for the better.”
“Mine too Vin.”
The End?