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Strip 'n Dales |
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"Can I help you sir?" a young officer asked when Chris approached the window that separated the squadroom from the waiting area."Yes, I'm Chris Larabee with the Denver ATF," he replied, flashing his badge. "I'm in town for a conference and one of my men was an officer here a few years back. I was hoping to get some information on an unsolved killing from back then."
"What's your man's name?"
"Vin Tanner."
"Vin Tanner, Vin Tanner," the officer repeated softly, as if trying to place the name. "Doesn't ring a bell with me, sir, but I've only been on the force two years. Hang on a minute," he said to Chris and went into the squad room. He came back less than a minute later with another policeman.
"Agent Larabee?" the other man, who looked to be in his mid-thirties said.
"Yes, I'm Agent Larabee."
"I'm Paul Michaels, I worked with Vin." He motioned for the younger officer to unlock the door for Chris. "Come on in, I understand you're looking for some information on a case?"
"Yes, I am," Chris answered, shaking Michaels proferred hand. "Three men were murdered, right before Vin left the force."
"Oh yeah, that was a nasty case," Michaels said. "Vin knew 'em, really shook him up," he remembered. "Well c'mon back, I'll show ya what we've got," he offered, leading Chris through the maze of desks, most of them empty this early in the morning.
"How's Vin doin', anyway?"
"Not so good right now," Chris related, frowning fiercely. "I just got word he was beat up. He's on an undercover case right now."
"Damn!" Michaels swore. "Hate to hear that. He was a good guy, hated to see him go. Never found out what happened to him after his started bounty hunting. Glad he hooked up with the ATF, he was too good a cop to go back to bein' a civilian."
"We're lucky to have him," Chris said quietly.
"Hey, I've got some pictures of Tanner that you'll get a kick out of!" Michaels suddenly remembered.
He rooted around in a filing cabinet and pulled out several dusty folders. "Let's see '93, '94...here it is, Class of '95! Can you spot your boy?" he asked, thrusting the picture at Chris.
The older man stared at the grouping. He'd know Vin anywhere and smiled as he spotted him, sporting short hair and his police officer's uniform. "His graduation day from the force?" Chris asked with a fond smile.
"Yep, it was. He became my partner the next day."
He dug in the folder again, this time pulling out a larger, color print of just Vin, which must have been taiken that same day. He started at the picture, mezmerized by Vin's beauty. His blue eyes sparkled, clear and bright, his short hair, blonder then, shone in the sun. He was smiling, showing his perfect white teeth. And his skin, so tanned and smooth. And he looked so proud and so happy. Chris couldn't stop staring at the picture.
"Hey, you can keep that," Michaels offered, seeing how enamored Chris was with the photo.
"Thanks, I know Vin'll enjoy having it. Kind of a link with his past and all," Chris explained.
"Okay, you wanna see what we've got on those murders?"
"Yeah, that'd be great," Chris said.
"Why don't you take a seat over there?" Michaels said, indicating a chair in front of his desk. Chris said and watched as Michaels went to another filing cabinet and rummaged around, pulling out a thick folder. "Here it is, crime scene photos, the works. Gotta warn you, it's a little gory," he cautioned, bringing the folder to Chris.
"Jesus!" Chris said, sucking in his breath as the bloody pictures spilled out. "And Vin walked into all this!" he muttered in shocked sympathy for his lover.
"Yeah, like I said, he was real shaken up about it," Michaels said. "If I remember right, two of the victims were real close friends of his. He was goin' over there that night for dinner, but we ran late on a case. It's lucky we did, or Vin coulda been layin' there too, you know."
Chris shuddered inwardly. Michaels was right, Vin might have been a victim of the killer, right along with the other three men. Chris would never have known him, never fallen in love with him, never..." he forced himself to quit thinking morbid thoughts and turned the ghastly photos over, reaching for the interviews and other paperwork instead. Vin's was right on top. He read the heartbreaking report, able to hear Vin saying the words, picturing the younger man, so tormented as he described the scene he had been greeted with. Chris moved on to read the rest of the information in the file. The case was a mystery. No real motive, no eyewitnesses. Vin was the closest thing to a witness, and he had arrived on the scene after the murders had been committed. Thankfully, Vin was never a suspect, as he had an airtight alibi. He'd been working on a case, with plenty of witnesses as to his whereabouts. All unsolved murder cases remained open, but this one was cold. No trail for anyone to follow. He closed the folder with a sigh and stood up.
"Thanks Paul, I appreciate you letting me see the file." He grabbed the rookie picture of Vin that he'd laid on the desk, holding it carefully.
"No problem Chris, stop in anytime you're in town. And give Tanner a hello for me. Tell him to check in with us once in a while."
Chris grinned. "Will do Paul. And if you're ever in Denver, look us up." He shook hands with the man and headed out of the squadroom, out of front door . The sun would be rising soon and he was that much closer to catching his flight and getting home to Vin.
+ + + + + + +
He walked through the airport an hour later, roaming through the deserted corridors. None of the restaurants were open yet, but that was of little consequence. He couldn't eat anything right now even if he'd wanted to; his stomach was tied in knots. But he stopped when he came across a shop that was open. He stepped in, scanning the store quickly. He walked over to a display of Texas souvenirs. 'Maybe this would help cheer Vin up, he mused silently. He grabbed a few packets of Texas chili mix, remembering how much Vin loved the stuff. A lump formed in his throat as he thought about a conversation they'd had just last week, when Vin had told him how much he missed what he'd called real Texas chili. Hell, Vin could eat it three meals a day now for all Chris cared. 'Just as long as he gets better.' He looked around some more and found cookies baked in the shape of the state of Texas and a bag of Lone Star coffee. He took his purchases to the register and paid for them. As he left, he noticed a boot shop across the hallway. He went in, amazed at the rows and rows of boots in the seemingly small store.
He checked his size first, wanting to try on a few pairs to check the fit and quality of the workmanship. He found a black pair of lizard skin boots and tried them on. They fit like a glove and looked damn good, too, and he decided to buy them. But first, he was going to look at boots in Vin's size, too. He found that section and checked over the merchandise. He found a pair of light tan, suede, low heeled boots, with a small bit of silver around the tip. He grabbed them and paused at a rack of bandannas that stood near the cash register. Selecting a turquoise one, he took the items to the register, glancing at the shopkeeper's watch as he paid. He groaned softly. It was only 8:30am. He bought a newspaper and a cup of coffee and went to find his gate.
+ + + + + + +
He downed some of the scalding coffee and made an attempt at reading the paper, but it was no good.
He was going crazy sitting in the waiting area, glaring at every passenger that boarded a flight, wishing it was him instead, going home to Denver. Home to Vin. When he caught himself frightening a little old lady with his icy stare, he knew it was time to vacate the area until his flight was called. He pulled himself to his feet wearily, grabbed his baggage and began to wander aimlessly through the airport.
Spying a row of phones on the wall opposite him, he ducked gracefully across, weaving through the sea of people now crowding the airport. On a whim, he punched in the phone number for Buck and JD's apartment. The line was busy. He fumed, banging his hand against the metal frame of the phone kiosk. Someone behind him cleared their throat. He turned and noticed a man waiting to use the phone. He ignored him and turned around and tried the number again. "Damn," he muttered under his breath. Still busy. He could feel the warm stare of the man behind him. He stepped back, away from the phone to allow the man access. He decided to keep walking and continued on down the corridor.
+ + + + + + +
"Yep, that's right Josiah, we'll meet you at the hospital in about an hour. See ya then," Buck said into the receiver, then clicked over onto the other line.
"Nathan? Still there?...Good, yeah it was Josiah.........he's meetin' us there around nine......okay, we'll be there, 'bye." He hung up the phone and looked at JD, who was finishing up his breakfast.
"Guess that's everybody kid. We'll meet 'em at the hospital."
"When's Chris gonna be there?" JD asked.
"He said his flight's coming in a little after noon, so he should be at the hospital around one or so," Buck related.
"Bet's Vin'll be glad to see him," JD said innocently.
"Oh, I know he will be, JD, I know it," Buck replied. He went to sit down and pour himself a bowl of cereal when the phone rang again. JD looked up, but Buck motioned for him to stay where he was and keep eating. "I'll get it kid," he said with a sigh.
"'Lo?"
"'Bout damn time you got off the phone! What if it had been the hospital callin' about Vin?" Chris spat out angrily.
"Well, good morning to you, too, pard," Buck greeted cheerily.
"What the hell are you still doin' there? How come you're not at the hospital?"
"Chris...visiting hours aren't until 10 o'clock...." Buck said, trying to calm his oldest friend down.
"Leaving Vin alone again, huh Buck? If that was JD in the hospital, things would be a lot different," Chris accused bitterly.
"Chris, that ain't fair and you know it!" Buck shouted back, starting to get angry. He knew Chris was upset about being stuck in Dallas, away from Vin, but this was going too far.
"Do I Buck? Does Vin? Why don't you explain it to him, explain why you left him to fend for himself against five men!"
"Chris, just shut the hell up, will ya? I can't tell ya how sorry I am about Vin! I know I shouldn't have left him alone, but Frank wanted to talk to me and he kept goin' on and on about stupid stuff! I got there as fast as I could! And Vin's like a little brother, you know that!"
Chris listened, heard the worry, guilt and fatigue in Buck's voice. He'd been wrong to accuse him friend about not caring, knew it all along. But he was so damned frustrated, waiting in this stupid airport, while Vin was hurt, beaten. "I know Buck, I'm sorry," he apologized. "It's just that...." he stopped talking, as a lump formed in his throat and unshed tears stung his eyes. Buck waited silently on the other end of the line.
"It's just that I don't want him to be alone, Buck," Chris choked out in a desperate, strained voice.
"Don't worry pard, he won't be," Buck reassured. "Doc said they'd take him down to X-ray first thing in the morning and we'll all be there at 9 o'clock, so he won't have any time to be lonely."
"Okay Buck," Chris replied, exhaling into the phone loudly.
"We'll see you in a few hours Chris. Don't worry, we'll take good care of Vin for you."
"Thanks Buck, I'll be there soon as I can," Chris said as he clicked off.
+ + + + + + +
Chris walked into the quiet hospital room. "Where the hell is everybody?" he wondered to himself with concern. He walked up to the sleeping man's bed, gasping at the vicious purple bruises and welts across his handsome face. He reached for his lover with a shaking hand, touching the bruises gently, not wanting to hurt him.
Vin stirred slightly and opened his eyes. "Chris? Chris, why weren't you there?" he said sadly.
"Vin...I'm so sorry, I wanted to, but you know I had to go to Dallas for that meeting."
"No I don't," Vin frowned. "I don't know anything. I needed you Chris and you weren't there. I laid in that parking lot waiting for you. It was so cold, Chris, and I was bleeding. Why did you leave me?"
"Vin...I..." Chris stuttered, unnerved at his lover's questions.
"Just leave me alone Chris," Vin said, rolling away from him and shutting his eyes. "I don't need ya anymore."
"No! No! Please Vin!" Chris shouted.
"Sir? Sir? Are you all right?" a worried voice asked.
Chris opened his eyes and looked into the kind face of a young flight attendant. "Uh, y-yes, I'm fine, thanks," he replied, wiping his sweaty brow with a trembling hand. He looked around the airplane, getting his bearings.
"We'll be landing in Denver soon, sir. Please bring your seat into an upright position."
"S-sure thing," Chris answered, still shaken. 'It was just a dream, just a dream,' he reassured himself silently. 'Must have fallen asleep. Vin never said that stuff.' He shivered as his body broke out into a cold sweat. "But what if he does say it when I see him?' he wondered despairingly.
+ + + + + + +
"Finally!" Chris muttered as the plane touched down in Denver. He waited impatiently for the plane to taxi to the gate and for the door to open. After what seemed like forever, he was reaching into the overhead compartment for his things and disembarking. He'd brought everything on the plane with him, not wanting to waste the time waiting at baggage claim. He forced himself not to run down the hallway, but walked briskly, heading for long term parking. He unlocked the car and grabbed the cell phone, dialing Buck's cell phone number.
"Wilmington!" Buck answered.
"It's me. How's he doin'?"
"Fine. He's a little sleepy, they gave him some painkillers after his x-ray. You want to talk to him?"
"You bet!" he growled into the phone.
"Chris?"
Chris closed his eyes, feeling weak in the knees at hearing his lover's voice at last. "Vin? Vin? How ya doin'?" was all he could managed to say in his relief.
"I'm okay," Vin replied. "Wish you were here though."
"I'll be there in about 20 minutes, okay? Just hang on and I'll see you soon."
"I'm sorry Chris," Vin said.
"Sorry for what Vin?"
"That ya had to leave early and come home," the younger man said sadly.
"Only thing I'm sorry about is that you got hurt, Vin. I sure as hell ain't sorry I got to come home early, couldn't wait to get out of there. I missed you."
"Me too," Vin said with a yawn. His eyes drooped closed and Buck took the phone from his hand.
"Chris, it's me again. He's asleep. Those drugs musta knocked him out good."
"Okay Buck, thanks, I'll be there in about 20 minutes."
"See ya then pard."
+ + + + + + +
Traffic into the city was relatively light and Chris made good time getting to the hospital. He found a close parking spot and jumped out of the Ram. Now he allowed himself to run, hurrying into the hospital. He knew exactly where the elevators were, having been to the hospital on numerous occasions for one of his men or himself. It was the nature of their business.
Getting off at the third floor, he scanned the numbers quickly, searching for Vin's room. He held his breath when he was two doors away, preparing himself for the worst. Walking into the room at last, he expelled his pent up breath as he looked at the faces of his men.
"Chris!' Buck beamed, coming forward to pat him on the back. "Good to see ya pard!"
"Guys," Chris greeted, nodding his head at the five men clustered around the small room as he strode toward the hospital bed. Much as he cared about his team, he really only wanted to be with Vin right now. His was the only face that he needed to see, to touch, to reassure that all would be right.
His breath caught in his throat as he looked at Vin's beaten face. He caressed the abused flesh with a soft, loving touch. "I'm so sorry Vin," he whispered.
"Why don't we give them a minute?" Josiah said to the rest, herding them to the door.
Chris barely noticed that they'd left as he reached for Vin's hand, rubbing it against his own face, relishing in the feel of Vin's warm flesh against his own. Still holding the limp hand, he leaned forward, stroking Vin's soft curls that rested in a disarray on the pillow. He brushed his lips carefully against Vin's, placing a tender, healing kiss on the cut and swollen flesh. "I love you Vin," he said softly, listening in relieved fascination to the younger man's slow, even breathing.
+ + + + + + +
Josiah and Buck walked in a half hour later to find Chris, fast asleep in the bedside chair, with Vin's hand held tightly in his.
"You know, don't you?" Buck questioned the big man.
"Had a feeling, Brother Buck," Josiah stated simply. "My guess is Ezra and Nathan know, too. Man'd have to be blind not to notice it."
"Well, I know for a fact JD hasn't caught on yet, Josiah," Buck said with a wink. "And Chris don't want it out, least not 'til he's talked to Vin about it."
"Won't say a word about it Buck," Josiah assured.
"Gentlemen," a cheerful voice sounded behind them, causing the two men to jump in surprise.
"Dr. Kelly," Buck greeted.
"Hello again Mr. Wilmington. You'll be glad to know that Mr. Tanner's going to be released now. I just need to check him over one last time before I sign the papers."
"That's great Doc!" Buck boomed.
The loud voices woke Chris, who snapped to attention. He turned sharply, and seeing the doctor, gently set Vin's hand back onto the bed and rose, walking over to the physician.
"Doctor, how is he?"
"He's doing fine. And you are?"
"Chris Larabee. I'm Vin's...boss."
"Ah, pleased to meet you Mr. Larabee," Dr. Kelly said, extending a hand. "Vin was asking for you last night and again this morning from what I understand."
The words hit Chris like a sucker punch to the gut. Vin had been asking for him, had needed him and he wasn't there. "Well I'm here now doctor," Chris said evenly, shaking his hand. "And I'd like to know about his condition."
"Very well, but perhaps we should wake Mr. Tanner. I'd like him to hear my instructions, as well."
Chris begrudgingly allowed the doctor to approach Vin first, hanging back anxiously, but within Vin's line of sight.
"Mr. Tanner, Mr. Tanner," the doctor said loudly, shaking Vin gently.
"Wha...huh?" Vin said in confusion, as his eyelids flickered. "Wake up Mr. Tanner," Dr. Kelly coaxed.
"No...I'm tired..." Vin slurred, closing his eyes and settling back into the covers.
"Here, let me try," Chris suggested.
The doctor backed away and Chris stepped up to the bed.
"Vin? Vin?" Chris said softly, touching his face lightly. "It's me, it's Chris. Open your eyes for me. I wanna see ya."
Vin reluctantly lifted his heavy lids. His blue eyes widened at the sight of his lover. "Chris?" he said in wonderment. "Thought I was dreamin'. I wanted to see ya so bad," he whispered hoarsely.
"I wanted to see you, too Vin. I'm so sorry I wasn't here sooner," the older man replied in a voice husky with emotion. He stroked the brown hair lovingly, gazing into the adoring blue eyes. "I missed you so much Vin."
"Mr. Larabee.." Dr. Kelly interrupted, tapping Chris on the shoulder. "I really do need to examine Mr. Tanner, and then you can take him home."
"Oh, yeah, sorry doc," Chris said, giving Vin a small smile. "Just let him look you over and then we'll get outta this place."
Vin nodded. "Hey doc."
"Hello Mr. Tanner. How are you feeling?"
"Fine."
"Vin..." Chris said, shooting him a warning look.
"Uh, my head hurts a little, and my side, I guess."
"Anything else?" the doctor countered.
"Yeah, my face feels like somebody used it for a punching bag."
"I believe they did, Mr. Tanner," the doctor agreed. "The x-rays came out clean, no broken bones. But you'll need to take it easy for two or three weeks. Your ribs and face are severely bruised and you have a mild concussion." He looked at Chris sharply. "He really shouldn't be alone for a while. Is there someone who can stay with him until he recovers?"
"He'll be staying with me," Chris stated flatly.
"Good," the doctor nodded. "I'll give you his pain medication with dosing instructions and a list of complications to watch for. I want to see him in three days for a check up, sooner if you find him suffering from any of the complications."
"All right doc," Chris said.
"Now, if you'll excuse us, I'll examine him."
"I'll stay," Chris said.
"Mr. Tanner, any objections?"
Vin shook his head.
"Suit yourself then," Doctor Kelly replied, "but please stay out of my way."
Chris tried to give the physician a wide berth, but when he undid the fastenings on Vin's hospital gown and the damage to the younger man's ribs were exposed, Chris flew to Vin's bedside. As the doctor palpitated the injured area, Vin moaned and twisted from the pain, causing Chris to lay a threatening hand on the doctor's arm.
"That's hurtin' him, stop it!" he demanded
"Mr. Larabee! Kindly remove your hand from my arm! I said you could stay if you let me work unobstructed. Am I going to have to ask you to leave?"
Chris glared daggers at the doctor, but removed his hand.
"It's okay Chris," Vin said through clenched teeth. "Doc's just doin' his job."
"Thank you Mr. Tanner," Dr. Kelly said. He started to touch the bruised area again and Vin flinched unconsciously. "I'm sorry, Mr. Tanner, I know it hurts. I just need to check things for myself, even though the x-rays showed everything was fine."
Vin was pale underneath his bruised face, but he nodded and the doctor continued.
"All finished. Badly inflamed and very tender, I'd imagine," he said sympathetically to Vin, "but no breaks and no internal injuries." He patted Vin lightly on the shoulder. "I'll send one of your friends in to help you get dressed. I'll have the discharge papers signed in a few minutes and you'll be free to go."
"Thanks doc," Vin said.
"You're welcome," Dr. Kelly said with a smile. Then he turned to Chris. "Mr. Larabee, a word with you outside, if you please."
Chris looked at Vin, to reassure himself that that sharpshooter was not suffering any ill effects from the doctor's examination. Vin was breathing rapidly and slightly hunched over, but he seemed all right.
"I'll be right back Vin," Chris said and followed the doctor out into the hall.
"What's up doc?" he asked.
"One moment please," the doctor said and went to the rest of the seven. "Would one of you mind helping Mr. Tanner get dressed? He'll be discharged shortly."
Buck stepped forward. "Sure thing doc, I'll help him out."
"Thanks Buck," Chris called.
"Mr. Larabee, I'm a little concerned about something..." the doctor began
"What is it doctor? Is there something else wrong with Vin?" Chris said anxiously.
"No, no, while his injuries are very painful, I'm confident he will make a full recovery, " Dr. Kelly hastily reassured. "It's just that last night, Mr. Tanner was very upset about you finding out about his injuries. He was so worried we had to sedate him. I just wanted to make sure that he would be all right staying with you while he recovers."
"Of course he's gonna be all right staying with me!" Chris rang out incredulously. "You think I'd do something to hurt him?"
Dr. Kelly eyed the menacing appearance of the man standing before him. He had been taken aback when he had first seen the stern features and black clothing, and thought that his patient had feared the man. But now, he saw the worry and concern written on Chris's tired face. He knew now that Vin had only been upset about causing worry to his friend. He smiled inwardly. 'Or maybe he's more than just his friend,' he thought silently. He suddenly decided that Vin Tanner would indeed be very safe with Chris Larabee.
"Please calm down Mr. Larabee," the doctor asked. "I didn't mean to offend you, I just wanted to make sure Mr. Tanner would be well cared for during his convalesence." He smiled reassuringly at the tense figure. "I'm sure he will be. Now, if you'll follow me, please, we can get his pain medication and I'll give you some other information. Let's set up his follow-up visit as well."
"Okay doctor," Chris said, breathing a sigh of relief. He'd figured the doctor was going to chew him out for objecting to his examination of Vin, and he didn't want to go head to head with Vin's doctor right now. He just wanted to get Vin home, where he belonged.
+ + + + + + +
"Hey Vin," Buck said as he walked into the hospital room.
Vin was floundering, trying to ease his way off the bed to stand up, but everytime he moved, his side erupted in molten waves of agony. "Buck," Vin hissed.
"Need a hand pard?" Buck said, rushing over to the bed to help Vin stand up.
"Thanks," Vin said, breathing easier now that the pressure on his ribs had eased.
"Okay, doc wanted me to come in here and help you get dressed."
He retrieved the bag of clothes they'd brought for Vin, since the clothing he had on last night when he'd been brought into the hospital was bloody and torn. The nurses had removed it from him and thrown it away at Buck's insistence. There was no reason to make Vin look at those clothes again. They would just be a painful reminder of the awful experience.
Vin swayed slightly, almost losing his precarious balance as Buck hurried back with the clothes. He caught the injured sharpshooter carefully and guided him back to the bed, sitting him down on the edge.
"Hhmm, maybe a turtleneck wasn't the best idea. Sorry Vin," he apologized.
"It's okay Buck," Vin said resignedly, knowing it was going to hurt to get dressed. "Guess we might as well get it over with," he sighed and lifted his arms slowly.
"God!" he cried out, dropping his arms to cradle his wounded side.
"Sorry pard," Buck said, "let's do your pants first, okay?"
Vin nodded and started to stand. Buck supported him and between the two of them, managed to put on his jeans, socks and boots. Vin sat back down on the bed.
"Ready to try the top again?" Buck asked.
"Just give me a minute first," Vin said, pale and sweating from the strain on his injured body.
"Okay, just relax, there's no rush, Vin," Buck said, giving the sharpshooter a reassuring smile. Then he grew serious. "Vin?"
"Yeah Buck?"
"I'm real sorry about what happened. I tried to get there fast as I could, but Frank called me into his office and kept yappin'."
Vin nodded, closing his eyes to ease the dull throbbing that had started up behind his eyes again. "I know Buck, it wasn't your fault."
"But, if I'd been there...." Buck started to protest.
Vin opened his eyes, staring at Buck evenly through their somber blue depths. "Buck, it wasn't your fault," he repeated. "You had to stay and listen to Frank, you couldn't blow our cover. You didn't do anything wrong. I'd have done the same thing."
Buck shook his head sadly. "No you wouldn't have pard. You'd have figured out a way to get there and help me. You always do."
"Buck, quit it!" Vin said sharply, then sucked in a breath quickly as his outburst caused a new stitch of pain to flare in his bruised ribs.
"What's going on here?" Chris shouted from behind them as he walked into the room. He turned steely green eyes on his oldest friend. "What are you doin' Buck? Tryin' to rile him up?"
"No Chris, it ain't anything like that..." Buck insisted.
"Sure looked that way to me," Chris argued back.
"Stop it! Stop it!" Vin's pleading voice broke through to the two combatants. He was leaning over on the bed, holding his aching head in his shaking hands. Chris and Buck immediately stopped their loud discussion and went to Vin.
"Vin, what's wrong?" Chris asked with concern.
"You two are makin' my head hurt," he moaned in response.
"Sorry Vin," Buck answered.
"Why don't you just get out of here," Chris snapped to Buck. "Leave him alone, can't you see what you've done?"
"No!" Vin said, dropping his hands to look up at Chris sharply. "Just stop it now Chris. This ain't Buck's fault, anymore than it's yours. You can't go blamin' him for what happened."
"Vin, come one, let's get you home," Chris said solicitously. Vin was now even paler and he was trembling.
"Not 'til we settle this," Vin said stubbornly. "Chris, it wasn't Buck's fault. He got stuck talkin' to Frank, and you know he had to stay there and listen to him. He can't suspect anything or everything's off." He looked fiercely at Chris, capturing him with his vibrant blue gaze.
Chris broke eye contact and looked over at Buck's long face, then back to Vin again. "All right," he said softly. "I'm sorry Buck. It wasn't your fault. I was wrong to accuse you."
Buck breathed a sigh of relief. "It's okay Chris, I know you were just worried about Vin."
Vin shivered suddenly, wincing from the movement. "Now that we're all friends again," he said dryly, "can one of you help me put my shirt on?"
"Sure thing," Chris said. "Just lift your arms up as much as you can, I'll do the rest." He eased the turtleneck on Vin gently just as the doctor arrived.
"Ready to go Mr. Tanner?"
Vin nodded.
"Good. We'll see you on Tuesday for a check-up. Mr. Larabee has all my instructions and your medicine. Call us if you have any problems." He shook Vin's hand. "Take care."
"Thanks doc," Vin said and the three men headed out the door to join up with the rest of the team.
+ + + + + + +
"Vin!" JD called out happily as the three men slowly entered the waiting area.
"Hey kid," Vin said softly as Chris and Buck, each holding one of his arms lightly, carefully helped him walk over to the other agents. Between the two of them, they gently eased Vin into one of the chairs.
"Vin, I'm gonna go pull the car around," Chris said, squeezing the younger man's shoulder reassuringly. "You going to be all right for a few minutes here?"
"He'll be fine Chris," Buck bellowed good-naturedly at his oldest friend, happy that Chris and Vin both had forgiven him. "We'll be real careful with him, won't we Vin?"
Vin turned slightly and smiled at Chris. "I'll be fine cowboy, don't worry 'bout me."
"Okay," Chris said, and hurriedly left to retrieve the Ram. He felt so guilty about being out of town when Vin had gotten hurt, and he hated having Vin out of his sight for even a second now. He looked back over his shoulder to get a last glimpse of Vin before the sliding glass doors closed to block his vision. His lover looked so frail and vulnerable, sitting in the waiting area, putting on a brave face, uncomplaining about his painful injuries.
A few minutes later, Chris swooped into the Ram and grabbed his cell phone from his pocket. He'd had another reason for leaving Vin back inside. He needed to call Frank and let him know about Vin, give him time to find a replacement dancer for Vin tonight, since there would be no way Vin could perform. He didn't want Vin to have to hear the conversation, he'd been through enough.
He dialed the man's number, his mind on Vin as he waited for Frank to answer. "Come on, come on, " he muttered unhappily as the phone rang a fifth, then sixth time. Finally, Frank picked up.
"Hello!"
"Frank, it's Chris Larson."
"Chris, how are you?"
"I'm fine, but I have some bad news. Vincent's been hurt and he won't be able to dance tonight," he said tightly.
"Oh no, I hope it's nothing serious?"
"I'm afraid it is, Frank. He's been beaten pretty badly."
"When did this happen?" Frank asked in shock. To Chris's experienced ear, it sounded genuine. He was starting to believe that Frank may not have known anything about the attack on Vin.
"After he got off work. Five men attacked him," Chris explained.
"I'm so sorry, Chris," Frank said. "How is he? Will he be all right?"
"We're at the hospital now, he's being released. Banged up ribs and face. Doctor said he'll make a full recovery, but he needs to take it easy for a while. And that means no dancing."
"Of course, of course," Frank assured. "I'll call some of the boys that work during the week. They can fill in until Vincent is feeling better. Will we see you tonight Chris?"
Chris hesitated, the lump that had been in his throat since Buck had told him about Vin, doubled in size. He hated himself for what he was about to say.
"Yes, I'll be there tonight Frank. See you around eight."
"We'll see you then. Give my best to Vincent."
"Thanks, I will," Chris promised and terminated the connection. He laid his forehead on the steering wheel and took a deep breath to compose himself before he faced Vin again. It tore at his heart that he would have to leave Vin alone tonight at the ranch, to fend for himself, while Chris went to the club and worked. But, no matter how much Chris wanted to stay by Vin's side, he had a job to do. It wouldn't be right or fair to the other members of the team if Chris shirked his responsibilities. He needed to be in the audience to watch for any signs of danger or clues about the killer. And knowing Vin like he did, he was sure that the younger man would never let Chris stay home, not when the rest of the team needed him. As always, Vin would never think of himself first, always wanting to help everybody else before himself. Right now, Chris hated being a part of the ATF, despised the responsibility and the duty. He wished he and Vin could just go off to a desert island somewhere and be together, in a place where there were no murders or beatings. A place where it was just he and Vin together.
"Well, sittin' here sure isn't helping the situation," he mumbled as he pulled himself together. "Everybody's probably wondering where the hell I am." He started up the car and headed for the front of the hospital. For now, until the case was over, he'd take what he could get. And that would be to get Vin home, so he could take proper care of him. Vin was going to need large amounts of TLC and Chris was only too happy to oblige. Then, when this cursed case was over, they'd plan their vacation to that desert island.
+ + + + + + +
Frank hung up the receiver and turned his attention back to the naked, muscular, younger man who laid next to him. "Adam, it seems that Vincent had a little run in with some boys last night. He's been beaten up pretty badly. You wouldn't happen to know anything about that, now would you?"
Adam grinned wickedly. "You know how much I hate that pretty boy. It was about time he got what was coming to him," he said with a nasty laugh.
"Adam, I am most seriously displeased!" Frank shouted, backhanding the younger man viciously. He grabbed Adam's hair roughly and pulled his head backward. He leaned over, bringing his face just inches from the younger man.
"You are not to touch Vincent again, do you hear me?" he ordered sharply. "And you are not to have anyone else do so either! Do I make myself clear?" he spat out.
"Y-yes, Frank, I won't touch him again, I promise!" Adam cried. "I'm sorry!"
"Good," Frank purred. "Now, show me how sorry you are," he said, pushing the younger man's body down to his crotch, jamming Adam's face into his genitals, "and I might forgive you."
He felt like killing the younger man for the part he played in hurting Vincent. Adam could be such an oaf and such a pain in the ass. It was time to trade him in for a replacement. And he knew just who he had in mind. He smiled cruelly as Adam bent to his work
Adam fearfully, yet eagerly complied with his lover's request, knowing how vicious Frank's temper could be when he was angry or disappointed. And Adam hated to disappoint Frank or make him mad. He sucked Frank's cock forcefully, just like the older man liked it, and was secretly pleased when Frank leaned back with a contented sigh, stroking Adam's hair. Little did he realized that Frank was imagining it was Vin who was giving him such pleasure.
'Soon Vincent, soon,' Frank thought to himself happily as Adam brought him to closer and closer to his climax.
+ + + + + + +
"Let's get you loaded up Vin," Josiah said cheerfully as he and Buck walked the injured man out to where Chris had just pulled up with the SUV.
Chris bolted out of the car and opened the passenger side door, waiting eagerly for Vin to approach.
"Okay cowboy, let me help you," Chris said as they neared.
"I can do it myself, Chris," Vin protested.
"Sorry Vin, I'm helping you," Chris overruled, taking the younger man's arm gently and boosting him into the seat. "Buckle up," he ordered.
"Yes sir," Vin mumbled sarcastically. He felt like dirt. His ribs were already constantly aching, and the jolt of getting into the car hadn't helped. His face hurt, pain shooting to nerve endings every time he opened his mouth to talk. As much as he hated it, he was going to have to ask Chris for a pain pill eventually. He closed his eyes and decided to try and sleep for a while. It was going to be a long ride out to the ranch, he though with a groan.
"See you boys tonight," Chris said, waving as he climbed into the driver's side. He looked over at Vin, sitting in the passenger seat, facing the window. He patted Vin's leg lightly.
"You doin' okay, Vin?" he asked with concern.
"Yeah," Vin said faintly. "Let's just get home, okay?"
"Sure thing Vin. Why don't you take a nap, we'll be at the ranch before you know it."
Vin drew in a shaky breath. His side was really starting to throb.
"Vin? Vin? You're not okay, are you?" Chris asked with rising alarm. He shut off the car and ran around to Vin's side. The second he saw Vin's pale face, he knew something was the matter.
"Vin? Come on, talk to me. What's wrong?" he pleaded.
Vin lifted his pain-filled blue eyes to his lover's face. "It hurts, Chris," he said sadly.
"What, your side?"
"Yeah, and my face. Hurts to talk."
Chris relaxed a little. "Okay cowboy, it's about time you came clean. Doctor Kelly said it would, told me to look out for that. Time for a pain pill for you."
"Sorry Chris," Vin mumbled unhappily.
"For what, Vin? You didn't do anything. Now just sit tight and I'll get you some water. Be right back."
He ran into the hospital and hit the vending machine right inside the doors, running back out with a bottle of water. He grabbed the container of pills and gave one to Vin.
"Here ya go," he said, watching as Vin swallowed the medication. He helped make Vin comfortable in the leather seat, reclining it slightly so he could stretch out.
+ + + + + + +
During the fourty-five minute drive home, Chris checked Vin repeatedly. With the help of the medicine, Vin had dropped off to sleep almost immediately, and he was still sleeping soundly when they arrived at the ranch. As much as Chris hated waking Vin, he decided against carrying him inside the house. Vin weighed about 160 pounds, and Chris was strong, confident that he could lift Vin easily, but figured, at the very least, he was bound to jostle Vin when he picked him up. He shook his lover's shoulder gently.
"Vin, Vin, wake up. We're home."
"Chrisss....no......tired......" Vin muttered sleepily.
"C'mon Vin, wake up," Chris coaxed. He decided to try a different approach and pressed his lips to Vin's gently. Vin parted his lips and Chris burrowed his tongue deeper into the sleepy man's mouth, brushing hungrily against Vin.
"Mmm, Chris..." Vin said, responding to Chris by kissing him back and opening his eyes.
Chris drew his lips away from Vin's eager mouth much sooner than he'd wanted to, but it was time to get the younger man into the house. "Okay Vin, let's go inside. Just hang onto me."
"Huh?" Vin said dazedly.
"Don't worry about it," Chris replied, seeing how drugged Vin still was. He guided Vin out of the car and into the house, leading him into the bedroom slowly. He pushed Vin onto the bed gently and pulled off his boots, then slid off his pants and turtleneck, leaving him clad only in a pair of boxer briefs. Chris angrily looked over the multitude of bruises surrounding Vin's ribcage, but forced himself to stay in control for Vin's sake. He eased the younger man onto the mattress and covered him up with the down comforter.
Vin looked up at him dully, about to surrender to sleep once more.
"I love you Vin," Chris whispered, brushing back Vin's brown curls to place a soft kiss on his forehead. He crept out of the bedroom, leaving the door ajar, so he would be able to look in on Vin as he slept.
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