Chris was the first to finish a hurried breakfast. He had Pony almost saddled when the rest of the men arrived. No one spoke much. Their thoughts were on their two friends and what might have happened to them. The first rays of daybreak were reaching the town when the five men rode out. The sky deep pink and blue.
Vin had decided that they had gone further Southwest of the town in their search for a way out of the ravine. Ezra and Vin had switched to Peso again when Ezra heard them, horses thundering down the road. He wasn’t sure if they were the men until he heard a yell.
“That’s his horse.”
Ezra dropped Royal’s reins. He grabbed Vin around the waist and heaved.
“Hey!” Vin yelled as he was dumped unceremoniously from the saddle.
He rolled down the side of the road and was instantly invisible in the tall grass. Ezra spurred Peso hard and road South again, away from where Vin lay. The two men turned and headed after Ezra. Vin lay in the grass a few minutes, waiting till he could no longer hear horses.
“Damn Southern cuss.” Vin looked around and spotted Royal not far away. He gave a whistle and the gelding trotted over to him. He managed to stand and pulled himself painfully into the saddle mostly by using his good arm.
Shit. Now what was he to do? He knew Ezra had been right to dump him. There was no way they could outrun the other men with them both on the same horse. And he wasn’t fit enough to take off after them. He could barely keep his balance. What if somethin’ happens to him? Only thing he could do was head for town and hope he could find some help.
Vin kept an eye out for any sign of Ezra. It had been two hours since he’d ridden out. The sun hadn’t been up long. They had broken camp before daylight. Hoping to make it to Cedar Pass that morning. He stopped and turned Royal from the road. He heard voices. Whoever it was weren’t bothered about being heard. He could hear laughing. Wait a minute. That sounded like Buck. And wasn’t that JD cussing him? He moved Royal forward, he was still in the trees but had a better view of the road. He smiled. He waited till they were almost directly across from him.
“Look what we got here. Cowboys by the smell of ‘em.” Vin grinned broadly as five guns were quickly drawn and pointed at him. He touched his hat.
“Mornin’ fellas.”
“VIN!” JD yelled. He twirled his gun before holstering it.
“Hey there Junior. We’re here to rescue ya!” Buck smiled widely.
Chris had a broad smile on his face as he holstered his gun.
“You alright Vin?” Nathan had noticed his injured shoulder.
“Been better.”
Nathan stepped off his horse and went to him. “What happened?”
They were all surprised when Vin laughed.
“Hell, what ain’t happened. Y’all didn’t see Ezra did ya?”
Vin didn’t protest as Nathan helped him off his horse. The others dismounted.
“We thought he might have found you by now?” Great, Chris thought, I knew he shouldn’t have gone off on his own.
“What’d I tell you?” Nathan laughed as he quickly checked Vin’s shoulder and then went to look at his ankle. “Damn fool done gone and got his self lost.”
Vin stiffened.
“He ain’t lost.” Vin said angrily. He quickly filled them in on what had happened.
“He rode off with them hot on his trail a couple of hours ago. I’d hoped he’d shook ‘em by now and was heading ta town. That was where we were going.”
The other men exchanged looks. Ezra? Since when could Ezra survive outside the saloon? They knew he could handle himself in a gunfight but they also knew how much he complained when they were out on the trail.
“Nathan, why don’t you take Vin back to town? We can go after Ezra.”
“NO!” Vin protested. “I ain’t leavin’ him out here.”
“Vin,” Nathan tried to sooth him. “You can barely sit a horse. Let me take ya back.”
Vin glowered at them. He knew they were right. Hell he could hardly stay upright. But Ezra was out there with those men chasing him and it was all his fault.
“I’ll go back long enough for ya to patch me up. If y’all ain’t found him by then, then I am headin’ out.”
Chris nodded. He didn’t think it would be too hard to find Ezra.
How the hell did he get himself into this mess? Ezra looked across the campfire at his captors. He had managed to stay ahead of his pursers until one had decided he had tired of the chase and shot him out of the saddle. He guessed he was lucky the man had poor aim or that Ezra had moved at just the right moment. Instead of being shot in the back, the bullet had hit him in the right shoulder. Ezra had been turning to look back and the momentum of the turn and the bullet had knocked him out of the saddle. They had realized they had the wrong man when they approached him, but at that point they didn’t care. They figured he might be worth something.
So here he sat, tied up. They have removed his guns. His hands were tied behind his back and his feet bound. He hoped Vin had made it to town and that he hadn’t been hurt further from his tumble. He grinned to himself and had to bite his lip to keep from laughing. The look on Vin’s face when he went flying out of the saddle!
“Whadda we do with this ‘un Jack?”
The two bounty hunters sat around the fire. They had tied up this fancy dressed man and tossed him over his horse. They had traveled further South until evening. They didn’t know how he had ended up with Vin’s horse, he hadn’t said. Even though they had asked him, nicely.
“Hell if I know Sam. He still might be worth somethun. Iffen he ain’t got no bounty on him we can sell him cross the border. Even bruised up like he is.”
They both laughed and looked over at Ezra.
Well that can’t be good. Ezra thought from where he laid. He groaned as he tried to sift positions. To think last night at this time he’d been sleeping with Vin lying close behind him. Now he was tied up like a hog.
“Whadda ya mean ya can’t find him?”
Vin tried to get up from the bed he had been lying in. Nathan had gotten a room for him at the hotel and bandaged him up. He had given Vin some concoction of his and he had slept most of the day. He awoke when the others came in to say they hadn’t found Ezra.
“Now Vin, take it easy.” Buck tried to calm him. “We’ll find him.”
“Knew I shoulda gone with ya.”
“Relax Vin. Ezra can take care of himself.”
Vin felt his anger surge. “That what ya told Ezra when he wanted to come look for me? If Chris Larabee ain’t worried then nobody else gotta right to be?”
Everyone looked at Vin. He was the easiest going of all the men. He rarely got mad and not at Chris.
“Now Vin,” Buck tried to defuse the situation. “Ya know that ain’t what Chris is saying.”
Vin turned his glare on Buck. “What the hell ya talkin’ about Bucklin? That’s exactly what he just said.”
Chris ran a hand through his hair. He knew Vin was hurting so he was trying not to get angry.
“Vin, we will go out tomorrow and find him. He can’t be that hard to find.”
Vin laughed humorously. “Yeah ya ain’t found him yet have ya? Didn’t take him no time to track me down. And there are five of ya lookin’.”
The five men wondered that very thing later in the Rapids saloon. How had Ezra found Vin so quickly?
“How did he do it?” Nathan looked skeptical.
“As I said before,” Josiah took a sip of his beer, “Ezra is more resourceful than you give him credit for.”
“Resourceful for having a card up his sleeve. But how did he find Vin so quick?”
Josiah frowned at Nathan. Nathan and Ezra had gotten off to a bad start. He thought they had gotten past that but times like these made him see it was still an obstacle they had to overcome.
“Vin’s been teaching him to track.”
Everyone turned to stare at JD.
“What?” He looked at them. “Ezra told me awhile back. Thought you knew.”
“Why was Vin teaching him to track?” Chris was stunned. How long had this been going on? And why didn’t he know?
“Ezra asked him to.” JD said as if this explained everything.
Vin laid in bed wishing he could fall asleep but then not wanting to. Nathan had left him a sleeping tonic. He desperately wanted to take it but felt guilty for even thinking about it. Here he was safe and sound and Ezra was out there alone. Or worse, with those men who had been hunting him. All my fault. If I wasn’t wanted, if Ezra hadn’t come lookin’ for me. His mind kept circling around the same thoughts. The past two days had been great. He had finally put a finger on what he had been feeling and he knew Ezra felt the same. And then his past came crashing down and ruined it. He still couldn’t believe how quickly Ezra had reacted when they realized the bounty hunters had returned. Who was he foolin’? He hadn’t even known who was after them before Ezra had dumped him off the horse. He’d been too engrossed in the feel of Ezra sitting behind him, arms around his waist.
Damn it was as bad as the time those hired killers had snuck up on him and Charlotte, he groaned. He didn’t want that hussy roaming around in his head. He eyed the tonic. If he planned on not being left behind in the morning then he better get some sleep. He threw back the tonic and grimaced. Hell that stuff was foul!
Purgatorio. Ezra hadn’t really wanted to ever see this dusty town again. And entering it with his arms tied behind his back did not help in the least.
He was somewhat surprised to see the amount of activity in the streets at this early hour. He would have figured everyone would be passed out or dead at this hour. And he would have preferred the latter. He chuckled to himself and his captures turned and frowned.
“Won’t be laughin’ long.” Jack smiled, his blackened teeth showing through his tobacco stained beard.
“Yeah won’t be laughin’ no more.” Sam snickered.
Jack gave him a dirty look. “Shut up.”
Sam scowled at him behind his back. Who the hell was he tellin’ to shut up?
They rode in silence to the cantina. Jack dismounted and turned to Sam. “Stay here. Make sure he don’t go no wheres.”
Jack entered the cantina and looked around. There at a back table was the man he was looking for. He took a deep breath. He tried to settle his nerves. Didn’t want to show fear around this man, he could smell it like a dog.
Vin did his best to study the tracks from Royal’s back. It was faster than trying to dismount and walk. Nathan had tried to help him the first few times but at that rate it would be weeks before he ever picked up the trail.
He took a deep breath and let it out slow. He couldn’t get flustered, couldn’t let the helplessness he felt overwhelm him. Ezra was countin’ on him and he wasn’t gonna fail him.
He found where they had over taken Ezra. He saw the blood on the ground but it didn’t look too bad. By mid morning he’d found were they had bed down that night. He got down then and Nathan helped him walk around. They all looked at him as he started laughing.
He found where Ezra had lain that night. Ezra had left him a note. Vin assumed the men who had taken Ezra couldn’t read because the note wasn’t in any code. Behind a large rock Ezra had written, apparently with his finger –
2 men
1 Ezra
2 purgtory
= trouble
He could see where Ezra had scooted over to the rock to leave this message, apparently while the men were asleep. Then he had scooted away far enough from the boulder that the message wouldn’t be stepped on or noticed.
“Damn Ez ya did good as usual.” Vin said aloud smiling.
Chris looked at Buck and then back at Vin. He still found it difficult to believe that Vin had been teaching Ezra to track and he never knew it. But that Ezra had become good at it surprised him more and he wasn’t sure why. He also wasn’t sure why it all made him angry, like he had been lied to.
“Guess we are heading for Purgatorio.” He said gruffly and mounted up.
“Way t’go Ezra!” JD said laughing.
“Ya can’t keep that wily gambler down.” Buck said, slapping JD on the back.
Buck could tell Chris was mad and he was trying to keep the others from noticing. Especially Vin. He had a feeling he knew why Chris was acting like he was, though he didn’t know if Chris did. And he didn’t want Vin to get wind of it until Ezra was found.
Can this day get any better? Ezra wondered. He now was lying in what had to be an old root cellar. He had been thrown down there earlier that morning, after Jack had come out of the cantina. It worried him that Jack had looked scared when he came out. He wasn’t sure what it would take to frighten the man but he was sure he didn’t want to know. Especially if it involved him. Jack and Sam had led him to this root cellar, where they had tossed him down the steps. Sam had set a water bucket at the bottom of the steps and then they had closed the trap door and left him. Gradually his eyes had become accustomed to the semidarkness. At least I am alone down here. He didn’t see any thing living down there, man or beast. So Mr. Tanner, what are your thoughts on escaping this?
Vin kept a hard pace to Purgatorio. Chris had tried to get him to stop and rest several times but Vin kept going. He had made Nathan strap him to the saddle. He didn’t want to have to worry about falling off. He couldn’t put any weight on his injured ankle and had a hard time balancing. He’d tied a slipknot so he could untie himself quickly if necessary. Vin figured the only bit of luck he’d had so far is that they were only going as far as Purgatorio. If they got there before they left…. He left the rest of that thought.
They reached the Mexican bandit town after dark. Nothing seemed to have changed from the last time they were there. Men wandered the streets, drinking and fighting. Gunshots split the night.
“Vin, let me and Buck go in first. I’ll see if I can find Maria, see if she has seen anything.”
Vin thought a moment and nodded.
“Alright. Buck, you come with me. The rest of you wait up here.”
“Hurry up. I ain’t waitin’ long.”
Chris glanced back at Vin but didn’t answer. He and Buck headed out.
“Come on Vin. Let me help ya down. Ya need to rest.”
“I’ll rest when Ez is back.” But he didn’t argue as Nathan helped him off Royal. Vin patted the horse.
“Don’t worry, Ez will be back soon.”
Royal threw his head up and JD chuckled.
“Think he’s agreeing with ya Vin.”
“Yes Vin, Royal knows no one wins playing against Ezra.” Josiah said.
Vin smiled as Nathan helped him sit. “That’s right. No one can beat ol Ez.”
“Yes, Senor Chris. I remember your friend.” Maria poured Chris a drink in her room. She lowered her voice. “I see him this morning.”
“You did?” Chris threw back the whiskey and looked at Buck. “Where did you see him?”
“Outside the cantina. He is with two very bad men.” She lowered her voice some more. “Bounty hunters.”
“See where they went?”
“No Senor. But I can ask, if you like?” Maria smiled seductively. She liked when Chris came to visit. She didn’t care if he usually angry and sometimes mean. She knew how to handle him and he paid her well.
“Be careful darlin’” Buck said as she slipped out into the night.
He poured himself a drink and sat down at the small table in Maria’s room.
“You okay pard?” Buck looked at his glass and not at Chris.
“What’s that suppose to mean?” Chris bristled.
Buck took a deep breath. “You been meaner than a rattler since Ezra took off.”
“Damn fool. Why couldn’t he have let us handle this?” Chris stood up pacing the small room.
“Think Ezra’s capable of handlin’ things. He found Vin.”
“Yeah and look where that got him!” Chris stopped his pacing, banging a fist on the table. “I could have found Vin fine. He’s my…” Chris stopped himself.
“He’s Ezra’s friend, and our friend too pard.” Buck said softly.
“I know.” Chris mumbled and began his pacing again.
Buck sighed to himself. He didn’t know if Chris would ever admit it, but he hung on tight to things he considered his. It had started after he lost Sarah and Adam. Chris clung tightly until he decided it was time to pull away. It would be his decision from now on what he lost and what he held on to.
After shuffling across the floor on his butt, Ezra had made a cursory inspection of his current hellhole. I must compliment the builder of this fine root cellar. He moved closer to the bucket left at the foot of the stairs. It had in a previous life been a bucket. Now it was a bent, rusty metal harbinger of who know what maladies. Just look at the ragged, rusty edge. Ezra looked inside at the water. He could see some oily sheen on the surface. Who knew what THAT was? Wait a minute? Ragged edge?
Ezra moved backwards so the ropes binding his hands were pressed against the bucket. He lifted his arms and tried to saw the ropes.
“Aw hell!”
He had knocked the bucket over and now he was sitting in a mud puddle, the water soaking into his favorite casual pants.
“The things I do for you Mr. Tanner.”
He didn’t know how long it took him to cut through the ropes on his wrists. He had cut himself several times on the sharp surface. He started to untie his feet when he heard footsteps on the boards above him. Dust fell in accord with the steps. Ezra hurried untied his feet and stood warily as the trapdoor creaked open. He saw legs descending down the steps.
“Why Mr. Larabee, so nice of you visit me in my new abode.”
“Ezra?” Chris and Buck said at the same time.
“And Mr. Wilmington! How delightful.”
“You alright Ez?” Buck looked around Chris and they came to the bottom of the steps. Buck held up a small lantern that threw little light.
“I have just now effected my emancipation.” He grinned up at them and then looked serious.
“You found Mr. Tanner?”
“Yes, he’s outside of town with the others.” Chris said brusquely. “Let’s get out of here.”
“Did you perchance stumble upon my firearms?”
Ezra followed them up the steps, he glanced around the barn the root cellar was set in.
“Nah Ez but I don’t think the guard we knocked out won’t mind if ya borrow his.” Buck laughed as he pointed to the large heap by the door.
Ezra quickly grabbed the man’s gun belt that held two Smith & Wesson Schofield guns.
“Now where did you acquire these my notorious friend?” Ezra mumbled as he strapped the guns on. He also took the man’s serape.
Vin was glad he still had his spyglass. He kept scanning the town, looking for any sight of Ezra. He had seen Chris and Buck earlier but could not tell where they were now. Suddenly he heard gunfire. He swung the glass around, searching for signs of disturbance. He spotted Peso first. At first he did not recognize the man astride him. He wore a Mexican serape but the hat looked familiar. The man was riding hell-bent, he had the reins in his teeth and both guns were blazing.
“YEEEHAAAWWWW!” Vin yelled as he recognized Ezra pounding out of town, Chris and Buck at his side.
The seven men made camp far from Purgatorio. They doubted they were pursued but kept watch anyway. Vin was propped up near the fire, he still had a fever and Nathan had made him one of his famous tonics. Ezra was still grumbling over the scrubbing that Nathan had applied to the cuts on his hands and arms, he hadn’t mentioned his shoulder wound. Ezra sat on the opposite side of the fire, where he could keep an eye on Vin. Chris sat close beside Vin, helping him with his meal and checking that his leg was elevated. Vin kept a watch on Ezra and every time he caught his eye he smiled.
“So Ez,” Vin called across the fire. “Where’d ya learn that fancy riding from?” He smiled broadly.
“Well Mr. Tanner in my extensive travels I have met a number of men from various backgrounds. A man I met in Missouri showed me that rather effective method of horsemanship.” Ezra grinned sheepishly.
“Damn fine riding Ez. Like those guns too. Can I see ‘em?”
Ezra looked pointedly at him. He made to stand up but Chris beat him to it. Chris walked over and stood in front of Ezra, his hand held out. The smile dimmed on Ezra’s face but he handed one of the guns to Chris, who turned and walked back towards Vin. Vin and Ezra exchanged a look and Ezra shrugged.
“Hey Ez, those are the same type guns Frank James used. Maybe they‘re his.” Buck laughed, trying to break the tension.
“Really?” JD’s voice rose. “Can I see the other one Ezra?”
“Of course JD, these are very fine firearms. I do hope the gentleman I acquired them from is not too upset.”
Everyone chuckled as Ezra rose to sit by JD, showing him the gun.
“These are Smith and Wesson Schofield guns Mr. Dunne.” Ezra said as he handed the weapon to JD. “They were named for General Schofield of the 10th Cavalry due to modifications he requested. Reloading is faster due to the barrel latch here,” Ezra pointed. “And Mr. Wilmington is correct, quite a few men prefer this gun, Frank and Jessie James, Buffalo Bill and Pat Garret to name but a few.”
The other men stared at Ezra in some amazement. Just how did he know so much about guns?
“What were they gonna do with ya Ezra?”
“Well JD, I heard them mention some bandit named Mad Dog Hollins. Seems he sells people across the border.”
“Good thing we got there when we did Ez.” Vin said softly.
“Yes son. I don’t think we could have afforded you.” Josiah rumbled.
“No indeed Mr. Sanchez.”
Everyone burst out laughing.
Vin let out a soft sigh. Here he was back with Ezra and he couldn’t get close enough to talk to him. He turned and glared at where Chris had set up his bedroll next to him. Chris was keeping a tighter eye on him than a boy out courtin’ his daughter. He still planned on having a talk with Chris but he figured it would keep until they got back to town. He heard a soft rustle and looked up.
“Ez.” He said softly and smiled.
“Mr. Tanner, I thought you might still be awake.” Ezra sat down beside him. “Would you like something for the pain?” He smiled and held out his flask.
“Damn straight.” Vin took a healthy drink.
“Ahhh. Now that hits the spot. Better’n that stuff Nathan’s got.” He grinned at Ezra as he handed the flash back.
Ezra took a small sip and then handed it back to Vin.
“I am glad to see you are alright…Vin.” Ezra said quietly.
Vin chuckled. “Can’t believe ya tossed me off my own horse.”
Ezra laughed softly. “It seemed like the right thing to do at the moment.”
They both laughed. Vin glanced around, all the other men were asleep, and Chris was now on patrol.
“Wish ya were over here, sleeping by me. I...I’ve missed ya.” Vin said as quietly as possible so no one else would hear.
Ezra looked at him carefully, trying to see how to take these words. He could see no jesting on Vin’s part. He took a deep breath.
“I wish that too Vin.”
Vin looked Ezra in the eyes and nodded.
“Guess we got some things to talk about when we get back.”
“I suppose we do.”
Vin laid a hand on Ezra’ leg.
“Lookin’ forward to it Ez. Mite even have another poem worked up.” He smiled broadly.
Ezra smiled back and then made to leave.
“Yes Mr. Tanner, that is if Mr. Larabee allows it.” He touched his hat and stood. Then made a half turn and touched it again, in the direction that Chris stood, glaring at them both. Vin scowled.
“I ain’t going.”
The seven men had made it safely back to Four Corners. Vin had insisted on going to the Saloon first. They were all seated at their table, drinks in hand.
“Ya got too many damn steps Nathan, besides I don’t need to go to your clinic. I’m fine I tell ya.”
“I think it would be unwise for Mr. Tanner to try and sleep in his wagon in his condition, I propose….”
“Vin will stay in my room.” Chris stated leaving no room for argument.
“I think that is a good idea.” Nathan said, shaking his head in agreement. “He’ll need tending to.”
“Don’t I get a say?” Vin said angrily.
Chris and Nathan ignored him. Ezra kept his eyes on the cards he was shuffling. He had been about to suggest Vin using his room before Chris had cut him off.
“Think I got somethin’ that mite help ya get around Vin. Stay here until I get back.”
Chris looked at Vin. “You can’t get in and out of that wagon with a busted ankle cowboy. Where else would you go?”
Vin willed himself not to look at Ezra. He knew Ezra was about to suggest his room before Chris steam rolled him. He took a deep breath. Well he’d have a chance to speak to Chris in private this way.
“I reckon that’s all right. Won’t be for long though.”
Chris nodded.
“Gonna check with Mary, see if anything came up while we were gone.” He glanced at Ezra at this point. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.”
Josiah watched as Chris left. He wondered if the man realized what a tight leash he was trying to put on Vin. He wasn’t sure why Chris was still so angry now that everyone was back safe and sound but he had a feeling it had something to do with the growing friendship between Vin and Ezra. He hadn’t been surprised to learn that Ezra had been learning to track. He had seen him wandering around town, nose practically to the ground. He had asked Ezra what he was doing and he’d replied “Looking for Vin.”
Buck stood up and stretched. “Gonna head to the restaurant, grab somethin’ to eat then get some sleep before patrol.”
“I’ll come too Buck.” JD followed him out the batwing doors.
Vin rearranged his foot he’d propped in a chair. Damn foot. He hated feeling helpless.
Ezra moved to sit beside Vin. He patted him on the knee.
“It won’t be long Mr. Tanner and you will be up and around again.”
Vin gave Ezra a wonderful smile. “Yer right Ez, got everythin’ I need right here.” And he laid his hand briefly on Ezra’s.
Ezra smiled back at him and then gently removed his hand, glancing at Josiah.
So, Josiah thought, they have headed beyond mere friendship. He smiled back at them both, he was happy as long as they were. He’d traveled too much not to accept there were many types of love and who was he to argue with love?
“You two hungry? I can pick you up something, I’m headin’ over there.”
Both men smiled at him.
“Why thank you Josiah. That would be most welcome.”
“Yeah thanks Josiah. I’m starved.”
Josiah touched his hat and left. He figured they might like a few minutes alone before Chris came back.
“Finally Ez, a moment alone.” Vin laughed as he leaned forward to pour another drink.
“For the moment.” Ezra reached the bottle for him and poured.
“Ez.” Vin hesitated. They hadn’t had a chance to really talk and he wasn’t sure how to begin. “About before….”
Ezra placed his poker face firmly in place. He had feared this. He knew their time out on their own, filled with danger and flight had probably contributed to Vin’s admission to feelings for him. And he had thought once they were back that Vin would come to his senses but he had hoped he was wrong. Well the least he could do was make it less painful for him.
“Mr. Tanner, there is no need for you to continue. I understand you have not been yourself, with your fever and such. Do not worry, I know things were probably said that you did not…..”
Chris strode through the door at that point. He glanced around wondering where everyone else had gone.
“Wait a minute Ez…”
“Nathan not back yet? “ Chris frowned. “You ready to go to the boarding house?”
Vin was staring at Ezra. He knew somehow Ezra had jumped to the wrong conclusions and he was trying to think how to fix it. Why did Chris have to pick now to come back?
“No, Josiah’s gone to get us somethin’ ta eat.”
Vin glanced at Chris then and back to Ezra, silently pleading with Ezra to look at him. But Ezra kept his eyes firmly fixed on his cards. He had barely looked up when he heard Chris return. Ezra felt numb. He knew it would turn out this way, hell Chris had made it quite obvious that Vin was his and Vin must have realized that too.
“Excuse me gentlemen but I find I am not hungry, perhaps Mr. Larabee you can make use of my meal.”
Ezra did not wait for a reply but touched his hat, refusing to look at Vin. He purposely did not hurry as he left the saloon but inside he was running. His first thought was to head for the livery and leave town for awhile but he was tired. All he wanted now was to hide himself in his room. He glanced down at his clothes. First thing he needed was a bath. He refused to soil his nice feather bed with all the muck he had acquired from his ordeal. He sighed. And perhaps a hot bath would refresh his soul as well.
Vin’s first thought was to go after Ezra and he moved to get up but then a pain shot up his leg and he recognized that that wasn’t an option at this point. He saw Chris looking at him sharply and he pretended that he was just rearranging his leg.
“Damn leg is a bother. Where is Nate?”
“Don’t know. Need something for the pain?”
“Nah, just another drink.”
Chris smiled and sat down. He poured himself and Vin some whiskey.
“You alright?”
“Yeah cowboy. Just tired.”
Chris nodded. Nathan came through the batwings smiling broadly.
“Look what I got for ya Vin.” He held a cane in his hand. “Thought I still had this. Got it from a man riding through town. Ought ta help ya get around until ya can put weight on that foot. Here, let me show ya how.”
Nathan got Vin to stand and showed him how to put most of his weight on the cane. After a few tries Vin got the hang of it. His foot still was sore but at least he could get around and he didn’t have the added pain of something under his arm.
“Hey thanks Nate. This’ll be fine.” He smiled as he made his way slowly around the table.
“Now don’t overdo it Vin. You still need ta take it easy. And keep yer foot propped up.”
“I know, don’t nag Nathan.” Vin laughed. He sat back down and placed his foot back in the chair.
Josiah came back in, carrying a tray. He glanced around when he saw Ezra wasn’t there.
“Where is Ezra?”
He placed the tray on the table.
“He had other things to do.” Chris said, cutting Vin off as he opened his mouth.
Josiah looked at Vin who gave him an imploring look. Josiah flicked his eyes up to Ezra’s room but Vin shook his head. Josiah gave him a slight nod.
“I think I’ll turn in. I’m sure Chris and Nate can handle things.”
“Don’t worry Josiah. Vin’s in good hands.”
Vin smiled slightly as Josiah left. He felt a little better. He knew Josiah would check up on Ezra. He looked at the food he’d brought. He had no appetite now but knew he had to eat something or have it forced on him. He plastered a smile on his face and began to eat. Chris started in on Ezra’s food. Nathan went to order something from Inez.
Ezra laid back in the steaming hot bath. He groaned in pleasure as he felt his muscles relax. He hadn’t allowed Nathan to examine him. He had few marks on his face but his torso and arms were covered in bruises. The wound to his shoulder wasn’t bad. Jack and Sam had enjoyed beating him after they had discovered he was not the man they were after. They had promised more later on but luckily he had escaped. He shifted in the water. He had no desire to think of that or what had transpired in the last few days. No he wanted to forget that. He wanted to push all thoughts of the hope he’d felt, hope he’d known in his heart wasn’t true. He’d been a fool again. He reached over the side of the tub for the bottle of whiskey he had brought with him. He took a long drink and settled back into the water. Perhaps it was time he considered moving on. He’d stayed in this town longer than he had originally planned. He really couldn’t say why he had stayed. Leaving would serve another purpose, Maude wouldn’t know where he was and this time he did not intend to include a return address.
Josiah went to the livery first. He was relieved to see Royal dozing in his stall. At least Ezra had not left town. He had not seen Ezra on the street on is way back from the restaurant. Where could he have gone? His eye caught the sign for the Bath House.
“Ezra, are you alright?”
Ezra heard the concern in Josiah’s voice. He had his eyes closed, enjoying the heat and the feel of being clean. He knew Josiah was referring to the bruises he saw but he chose to ignore that.
“I am fine Mr. Sanchez. Just removing the filth of the past few days.” And soothing my soul. He refused to open his eyes.
“I brought your dinner, it’s in the Saloon.”
Ezra gave a sardonic smile. “I am sure Mr. Larabee will make good use of it. I, Mr. Sanchez, am drinking my supper.” He looked at Josiah then and waved the bottle.
Josiah saw the pain and hurt in his eyes and he knew it wasn’t from the bruises he saw covering his body. He wasn’t sure what had happened while he was gone but he hoped Ezra would allow him to help.
“Mind if I have a drink?”
“Why sure Josiah. Join me in my decline into my baser side.” He smiled sadly.
Chris helped Vin get settled into his room at the boarding house. Chris kept it for times he wasn’t out at his cabin. He sat in the chair near the bed.
“Anything I can get ya?”
Vin settled back on the bed. It felt good to be comfortable, warm and dry. This wasn’t as nice as Ezra’s bed and he’d rather be laid up snug with Ezra out in the woods. But he tried not to think about that right now. Now he needed to talk to Chris and he hoped he’d get it right.
“Somethin’ wrong cowboy?” Vin looked at Chris holding his eyes.
Chris stiffened. What was Vin asking him if something was wrong for? Something was wrong Vin.
“Yeah. Wonderin why you been lying to me.” The words came out harsher than Chris intended but right now he didn’t care. How could Vin lay there looking like he’d done nothing wrong?
“Lying?” Vin was surprised.
Chris stood up, glaring down at Vin. His voice grew loud.
“Yeah whadda ya call it. Why didn’t you tell me you were teaching Ezra to track? Why do you always take patrol with him? What is going on?”
Vin was getting angry. He was usually slow to anger but how dare Chris accuse him of lying?
“Ain’t lied. Don’t see where what I do on my time is any business of yours. And I like Ez. Ain’t no law against me going on patrol with him.”
“It is my business. I’m in charge here.” Chris was yelling now.
Vin’s face went white with anger, his mouth in a tight thin line. He pushed his legs off the bed and grabbed his cane.
“Where the hell do you think you are going? You’re staying here.”
Before Chris finished speaking Vin had his mare’s leg up and cocked. It had hung on the bedpost by the head of the bed.
“Ya ain’t keepin’ me here against my will. Ya ain’t in charge of me, no matter what ya think. I do what I want, with who I want. You ain’t got no say in that.”
Chris realized he had said too much, overstepped his bounds.
“Vin, I’m sorry. I was just….”
Vin shook his head. He waved Chris aside with his gun. Chris stepped away from the door and Vin opened it.
“Don’t try and stop me or force me to use this on ya, cause I will.”
Chris held up his hands in surrender. He didn’t say anything as Vin left, closing the door behind him.
Ezra lay on his bed, trying to enjoy the feel of it. If he thought of it objectively it did feel nice. It was soft and smelled faintly of lavender. He kept a lavender sachet under the mattress. He tried not to think of how it had felt to lie beside Vin. Either feeling Vin’s hard lean body wrapped around his or holding Vin tightly in his arms. He sat up. He was never going to get to sleep like this. He got out of bed and staggered toward the dresser, where the whiskey bottle was. He stopped halfway there. He heard shuffled footsteps in the hall, coming toward his room. He picked up his revolver, which he kept by the bed. The steps came slowly and quietly towards his door then stopped. There was a soft knock. Ezra quietly cocked his gun.
“Who is it?”
“It’s me Ez.”
Ezra was stunned. He opened the door.
“Mr. Tanner, how…?”
“Can I come in?”
Vin was leaning heavily on his cane. His face flushed with the exertion of walking from the boarding house and up the back stairs to Ezra’s room.
“Why of course Mr. Tanner.” Ezra reached out and helped him in. Ezra settled him on the bed and picked up his legs so could lay back.
“Would you care of a drink Mr. Tanner?”
“Yeah and I’d care for ya to call me Vin.”
Ezra didn’t say anything. He poured Vin a drink and one for himself too. He handed it to Vin and then sat down in his rocking chair. He had opened the window slightly and a soft breeze moved the curtains softly. He watched as Vin took a sip and leaned back against the pillow.
“Missed this.” Vin said softly, closing his eyes. “Dreamed about this bed while I was chasing that wagon. Thought about how I missed sitting up here with you, listening to ya read to me. I could listen to ya talk all day Ez.”
He smiled slightly but kept his eyes closed. Ezra sat staring at him, his glass half way to his lips.
“Kept thinkin’ about ya while I was gone. Ya kept poppin’ up in my mind, no matter what I was doin’. I’d think, I need to tell Ez that, or I should show that to Ez or I’d just think on stuff we’d done together.”
He took another sip of his drink.
“Didn’t know what t’think of it at first. But after I got hurt and I knew ya would come lookin’ for me, I realized how much I care for ya Ez.”
He opened his eyes and looked at Ezra as he said the last.
“I know it ain’t right…”
He saw the look on Ezra’s face and quickly continued.
“I don’t mean my feelings ain’t right, I mean that other people don’t think it’s so, but I don’t care Ez. I’m not sure ya feel the same, I think ya do. But I need ya to know that I, I love ya and I don’t say that lightly.”
Vin stopped and stared at Ezra. He willed him to know his feelings were true. Ezra stared back. His glass still in his hand. Then he blinked, he seemed to realize where he was all at once. He glanced at his drink then threw it back. He set the glass on the floor by chair.
“Mr…I mean Vin.” He stopped then looked at his hands. He took a deep breath and continued.
“What about Mr. Larabee?”
Vin shook his head.
“Chris? What about him?”
“I know of your feelings for Mr. Larabee and his for you.”
Vin finished his drink and sat the glass down.
“Ez what the hell are ya talkin’ about?”
“Mr. Tanner you know quite well what I am talking about.” Ezra rose from the chair, his voice hard. “I think he made it was quite apparent how he felt while we were coming back to Four Corners.”
“Ez,” Vin smiled shyly. “Chris is my friend, though after tonight I ain’t sure of that, but I ain’t got no feelings for him. He’s pissed cause he thinks I can only have one friend and that’s him.”
“Vin, I mean…don’t you think that perhaps he feels more for you than friendship?”
Ezra didn’t know what was making him say these things. He didn’t know why he was pushing Vin towards Chris. He was shocked, excited and dumbfounded that Vin had said he loved him. But he couldn’t believe it was true. He felt this overwhelming desire to convince Vin of that too.
Vin frowned slightly. Ezra didn’t realize he could see right through him. It made him sad to think that Ezra didn’t believe him that Ezra thought he was confused and really cared for Chris. He snorted which made Ezra frown.
Vin patted the bed beside him. Ezra just looked at him. Vin patted the bed again.
“Ezra.”
“Yes?”
“Don’t make me get up and come over there.” Vin smiled at him.
Ezra stood up slowly. He moved around the bed and sat on the corner near the foot.
Vin reached over and placed his gun belt over the bedpost. He eased out of his jacket and tossed it on the floor. Ezra watched as it floated past him but said nothing. Vin scooted to the right side of the bed and leaned down to try and remove his boot. Ezra moved then and helped him take off his boot and the moccasin. When he moved to get off the bed Vin grabbed his arm and gently pulled him closer.
“Kick off your boots Ez and lay down here beside me. I’ve missed holding ya close.”
Ezra pulled his jacket off and tossed it over the end of the bed. He toed out of his boots and lay down beside Vin, not touching him. Vin moved closer, moving so he fit as close to Ezra’s back as he could get. He put his arm around Ezra’s waist and pulled him in closer and put his bad leg up on Ezra’s. He found Ezra’s hand and laced their fingers together. He nuzzled his nose in the nape of Ezra’s neck and breathed deeply, taking in the scent of him.
“God Ez, I’ve been dreamin’ of this.”
Ezra felt a tear fall down his cheek. He didn’t move to wipe it away. He moved back so he was closer to Vin, and Vin tightened his grip.
“So have I Vin, so have I.”
Vin smiled and nuzzled Ezra again.
“Night Ez. Love ya.”
“I love you too.”
And soon they were asleep, safe and content in each other’s arms.
Ezra woke with a heavy warm weight on his chest. He opened his eyes. He saw Vin’s curly brown hair. Vin was sprawled across his chest, his head tucked under Ezra’s chin. Vin’s knee was firmly tucked between his legs, up against Ezra’s balls. His arms were curved around Vin’s back. What a way to wake up. Ezra took a shuttering breath. He moved his hand along Vin’s back. Vin’s shirt had come untucked from his pants. He gently maneuvered his hand under it. Vin’s skin was warm and smooth. He slowly worked his hand up Vin’s back. He froze as Vin sighed and moved slightly. His hand continued its journey up Vin’s spine, slowly moving side to side. Vin turned his head to look at Ezra.
“Mornin’ Ez.” He smiled sleepily.
“Morning Vin.”
They looked into each other’s eyes and then Vin leaned forward. They touched lips, warm and soft. They both opened their mouths slightly and felt the first shock as their tongues touched. Their mouths widened, taking the first taste of each other, exploring unfamiliar territory. Then the kiss deepened and they drew themselves closer, lost in this first wonderful kiss. They finally pulled back, gasping for breath.
“Ez.” Vin breathed.
Ezra held him close, nodding his head in silent agreement. Vin gazed into the sparking green eyes that he knew revealed the same love and amazement that he felt. Ezra smiled up at him and drew him close for another kiss. Ezra grew bolder in his touching of Vin, pulling him hungrily toward him, kneading his butt. Vin moved his hand and grasped Ezra’s side.
“Ow!” Ezra yelped and pulled back.
“Sorry Ez, did I hurt ya?” Vin raised up to look at Ezra. He pulled up Ezra’s shirt and noticed the deep blue bruises.
“Ez, you’re hurt.” He tried to move over.
Ezra attempted to stop him, but Vin rolled over to his side.
“It is nothing.”
“Ain’t nothing. What happened?” Vin pulled Ezra’s shirt up further.
“The gentlemen who were pursing your were not pleased when they discovered it was me they were chasing.” Ezra shrugged one shoulder and winced. Vin noticed the bandage on his shoulder.
Vin looked at him, eyes full of sorrow for what he had caused. He bent down and gently kissed Ezra’s chest.
“I’m sorry Ez.”
Ezra reached up and placed a hand behind Vin’s neck and slowly drew him down for a long sensuous kiss. They both sighed when they parted.
“I would risk anything for you Vin.”
Vin gave him his sweet half smile.
“Me too Ez. Me too.”
Ezra reached up and ran his fingers through the soft brown waves of Vin’s hair. I’ve been dying to do that. He smiled up at Vin.
Vin smiled bashfully down at him.
“I, I ain’t never been...with a man before Ez.” He looked away.
“Neither have I.” Ezra said quietly.
“Good!”
Ezra chucked.
“I mean, guess we’ll have to figure things out fer ourselves.” Vin blushed.
Damn it I don’t blush!
“Yes Mr. Tanner I guess we will.” Ezra couldn’t keep the grin on his face from widening. “But I think we had better get up for now. The others will probably come looking for you soon.”
Vin nodded. “Yeah guess we’d better. But first….” He bent down and gave Ezra another long deep kiss, pulling him gently closer to him, mindful of his bruises and shoulder.
“So ya don’t forget me.” He said as he came up for air.
Ezra ran his hands firmly down Vin’s back, gripping his ass tightly and began moving his hips slowly against Vin’s crotch. Vin inhaled sharply and Ezra smiled seductively.
“I don’t want you to forget me either Mr. Tanner.”
Vin grinned wickedly.
“Don’t think that is likely Mr. Standish.”
Vin reluctantly eased himself up and off Ezra. Damn pants are way too tight. He gave Ezra a stern look.
“That won’t too nice of ya Ez. Don’t think I’m gonna be able to walk right.”
Ezra laughed out loud. Vin enjoyed the sound of Ezra’s unrestrained laughter.
“Well Vin you can just blame it on your bad leg.”
The other five men were at their table having breakfast when they heard the sounds of boots and laughter up on the balcony. They looked to see Ezra helping Vin down the steps, he came down in front of Vin, arms out incase Vin lost his balance.
“I can make it down the steps Ez.” Vin fussed though his voice was full of laughter.
“I know Mr. Tanner, but just in case I am here to catch you.” Ezra chuckled as he held his hands out to lightly touch Vin around the waist.
They made their way safely to the table and Ezra made sure Vin was comfortable and his leg elevated in a chair before he sat down beside him.
Chris was surprised to see that Vin wasn’t wearing his guns.
“Good morning Gentlemen.” Ezra said brightly as he pulled his chair closer to the table.
“Mornin’ fellas.” Vin said smiling widely. He nodded to Inez as she brought them both cups of coffee.
“Hey Vin, watch ya doing up in Ezra’s room? Thought ya went to stay in Chris’?” JD asked looking puzzled.
“Ezra’s got a softer bed.” Vin mumbled as he tilted his head down to take a sip of coffee, trying to hide the blush that went up his neck and face.
DAMN IT. I don’t blush!
“Oh yeah, bet that feather bed is right nice.” JD said innocently.
“Yes JD it is quite comfortable.” Ezra said as he pointedly looked anywhere but at Vin.
Josiah smiled knowingly. He wasn’t surprised that Ezra and Vin had finally acknowledged their attraction and he was happy that they were. He glanced at Chris who was looking grim. He was not sure if Chris knew the extent of Ezra and Vin’s relationship but he could tell he was not happy with it so far.
Buck smiled widely. He knew a thing or two about love and could see it shining from both their eyes. He was positive Chris didn’t know how far their relationship had progressed. And he hoped Chris would accept it once he did.
“How ya feeling this mornin’ Vin? Did ya sleep alright?”
He was surprised when Vin spit out the coffee he had been about to swallow.
“I’m fine Nate. Mite sore still but I, I slept fine.”
Nathan glanced at Ezra, who was desperately trying to maintain his poker face while gently pounding on Vin’s back while he sputtered.
“That was right nice of you Ezra to let Vin have your bed.”
“It was my pleasure.” Ezra said weakly.
Vin was happy to see he wasn’t the only one that blushed.
The rest of breakfast was spent listening to JD and Buck fuss back and forth. Chris had yet to say anything but glanced at Vin often. Vin refused to meet his eye.
“Vin, ya need to stay off that foot as much as possible. Won’t get better any faster iffen ya don’t.”
“Alright Nate.” Vin didn’t argue. He was trying to see where Ezra had disappeared.
Chris was also trying to see where Ezra had gone. In a few minutes he reappeared smiling.
“Ezra, I was telling Vin he needs to stay off that foot. He staying in your room?”
“Yes he is Mr. Jackson, I will see to it that he rests.”
Ezra smiled warmly at him and Vin felt his temperature rise.
“We’re still shorthanded Ezra. You got watch at noon.” Chris had finally spoken, he got up and pushed his chair back. “Don’t be late this time.”
He turned and walked out.
Ezra touched his hat to the retreating form.
“Shall we withdraw upstairs Mr. Tanner?”
“We shall.”
Vin and the others all laughed as they headed upstairs.
Ezra helped Vin back into the room but instead of helping him onto the bed, he moved him to the rocking chair. Ezra began to brush dirt from the bottom of the bed.
“Mr. Tanner, you need a bath.”
“I’m sorry Ez. I didn’t mean to get your nice bed dirty.”
“That is quite alright, I have set to remedy that problem.”
“We headin’ for the bathhouse?”
“No Vin, I have arraigned for it to come to you.”
“Ya have?” Vin looked puzzled.
At that point there was a knock at the door. Ezra opened it and two young boys entered carrying a large tub.
They came back several times carrying buckets of steaming water and poured them into the tub until it was half full.
“Thank you young men. That will be fine.”
Ezra handed them each a few coins and closed and locked the door.
Vin sat in the rocker, a stunned look on his face.
“Ez, ya didn’t have ta go to all this trouble.”
“Nonsense, it was no trouble at all.” Ezra tried not to show how pleased he was that he had surprised Vin and by the look on his face it had made him happy.
“I, I thought you might like some privacy and I could help you with your bath.” His voice grew quiet and soft at the end.
“Glad ta see I ain’t the only one that blushes.” Vin grinned happily.
“No, I guess you aren’t.”
Ezra slowly walked toward him and they held each other’s eyes. Ezra knelt down beside him and slowly removed his boots. From where he was Ezra reached up to unbuttoned Vin’s shirt. Ezra kept his eyes on his hands while Vin watched his face. Ezra’s fingers fumbled slightly on the buttons. Vin placed his hands on Ezra’s to stop him. Ezra looked up surprised and Vin leaned forward to lightly kiss him. Vin helped him remove his shirt and then Ezra supported him as he stood. Ezra eased his pants off, careful of Vin’s injured foot and then helped him into the tub.
“Ahhh.” Vin sighed as he lay back in the tub.
Ezra smiled as he stood and opened a dresser drawer. He removed a bar of soap, wrapped in paper and a wash cloth. He picked up a water pitcher and went to kneel by the tub. He dipped the pitcher in and poured water languidly over Vin. Vin leaned back in the tub and closed his eyes, enjoying the water running down his body. Ezra tried not to stare but he couldn’t take his eyes from the strong lean shape of Vin. He had tried to image what Vin looked like under all those clothes but his imagination hadn’t done Vin justice. He was all sinewy muscles, long and lanky. There was not an ounce of fat on him. The parts of him that were exposed to the sun where golden brown, the other parts pale and chiseled reminding him of pictures he had seen of Michelangelo’s David but Vin’s form was much better.
Vin had his ankle up on the edge of the tub and Ezra urged him forward. He tilted Vin’s head back and poured water over his hair. Ezra had had a fantasy or two about Vin’s hair. He wet it and gently lathered his hair, massaging his scalp as he worked the soap through the thick curls. He had ordered this from St. Louis. Cinnamon. Vin moaned deep in his throat. After he rinsed it he picked up the wash cloth and as he prepared to wash Vin’s back, Vin reached over and grabbed his hand. His eyes were soft and full of passion.
“I think it’s time ya got in here with me Ez.” His voice was low and rough.
And who was Ezra to argue with logic like that?