Through Sunshine and Shadow by Debra Hicks

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Ten

"You gonna be okay?" Vin asked blandly.

Ezra yawned, watching the tracker throw his bags over the black mare's saddle. It was far too early to be up but he had two good reasons. The first was to see Vin and Buck off on their patrol.

"It's my mother, Mister Tanner, not some desperado wishing to call me out."

He could tell by Vin's expression that the lean tracker considered the latter to be the safer option. But, true to his feelings about other people's families, Vin remained silent.

Ezra let himself pause to admire the other man. They had both put on the missing weight and lost the haggard look caused by Vin's three week ride and Ezra's shooting. Right now Ezra thought Vin looked especially handsome. The lean tracker had rolled his coat in the front of his saddle and was wearing a striped light blue shirt over a pair of tight black pants.

The past few weeks had also taught Ezra more than a little about ecstasy. Vin was uncanny in his ability to take Ezra to the brink, then pull him back only to do it again. Giving the tracker a smile, Ezra let himself feel a sense of accomplishment that he was fast learning to do the same to Vin.

"Morning there, Ezra," Buck said cheerfully, as he pulled his horse to a stop next to Vin. "What you doing up before noon?"

"It is best to partake of breakfast before my mother's arrival," Ezra explained.

Buck laughed. "I can understand that."

Ezra knew that the others found his relationship with his mother to be unusual at best, crazy at worst. Trying to explain why he still sought his mother's approval even though he had long ago accepted he would never get it, was impossible. Though for some reason, he found himself looking forward to today's visit. Vin swung up on his horse.

"Y'all be careful out there," Ezra intoned.

Buck nodded, losing his usual smile. "I wish to God the bitch would try something. It's the waiting that will drive the man crazy."

Vin nodded his agreement to Buck's statement. It had been four weeks since the dead end with the telegram. Four weeks of waiting for whatever Ella tried next. It was getting to where all of them were jumping at shadows. The only real surprise during the long weeks had been Chris. After spending the first week in a evil mood, he had suddenly turned around and invited Mary to a dance in Eagle Bend. Ezra was glad to see their friend taking Vin's advice and trying to think of something other than revenge.

Buck turned his gray and started down the street. Vin paused for only an instant to look at Ezra, but the gambler could feel the love in the sky-blue eyes. He tipped his hat and watched Vin trot after his traveling partner.

As they rode out of sight, Ezra sighed, trying to retain his good mood. Things had been quiet, not only from Ella but from any other trouble. Everything seemed to have returned to normal. Mary was once more talking to Chris about more than just town business. Within their band, though, Ezra could still sense something wrong, something missing. It was like listening to a symphony where a few notes were off. Giving up on trying to define the problem, Ezra pulled out his pocket watch.

Squinting a little against the bright sunlight, he estimated that it was an hour to the stage's planned arrival time, which gave him a little over an hour until Maude's arrival. Starting down the street, he paused to accept a morning welcome from Missus Potter. It was a beautiful late summer day and the town was filling early. Several more citizens offered greetings as he crossed the street. From down the block he was distracted by the sounds of hammering.

The sound lifted his momentarily sagging spirits. The reason that he was looking forward to his mother's visit was to brag. Even though he knew it would not be appreciated, he was proud of the fact that the newly-appointed town council had asked and heeded, his advice on the investment of the ten thousand dollars recovered from the would- be assassin. The hammering was coming from an addition to Josiah's church, a room to serve as a school. That had been the first thing he had suggested they spend funds on. A search had already been launched in several eastern papers for a teacher. The rest of the money, to pay the teacher and for other town improvements, was invested in two trust funds with a solid New York banking firm.

Straightening his new hunter green jacket and gold vest, he walked into the café. The town had also voted to reward their protectors with a whole fifty dollars each. Ezra had bristled at that. Getting shot was certainly worth more than fifty dollars. After arguing with the esteemed gentlemen, he had secured sixty for each of them, well short of the hundred he'd requested. Sitting down, he ordered a big breakfast and sat back to watch the town through the new glass window.

He was still there, reading the latest edition of the Clarion, when the stage rumbled past. Tucking the paper under his arm, he hastened out into the fast-warming day. His timing was perfect; he arrived at the dust-covered coach just as his mother was preparing to exit. Smiling, he extended his hand.

"Mother," he said cheerfully.

Maude Standish stepped regally down. Smiling up at her son, she leaned forward and kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Ezra, sugah, how are you?"

Ezra returned the quick peck. "Fine, mother. What brings you--"

The first of her luggage landed with a thud near the front wheel. "Be careful with that, my good man!" Maude barked.

Standing back, Ezra waited for the other bags to be more carefully lowered down. He was slightly surprised when only four appeared. As he moved to retrieve them, he looked over at the still lovely woman. It struck him suddenly that she was looking older these days, and a fleeting touch of worry snaked though him. Still, he knew the last thing his mother would sit still for was negative comments on her appearance.

"Traveling light these days, are you, Mother?"

Snapping open her umbrella, she said, "Well, son, it is only a short trip. I had all the necessary things shipped on ahead."

One of the town boys, whom Ezra had paid, now showed up to help with the bags. Picking up the smallest of the bunch, Ezra left the rest to the young man. Extending his arm to his mother, Ezra started them toward the hotel. People smiled and good mornings floated toward them.

"So, son, it looks like you're still doing well here," Maude observed. Her tone said she still didn't understand his attraction to the growing frontier town.

"Well, not to brag," Ezra said smoothly, gold tooth catching the sunlight, "but the town council recently called upon me to advise them on investing a rather large amount of money."

He knew as soon as he had said it that it had been a mistake.

Maude's hand tightened on his arm. "Really?" Her cultured voice dripped honey. "You know, I have several very lucrative investment opportunities in the offing that--"

Deciding it was best just to ignore the whole matter, Ezra switched subjects quickly. "What brings you here, Mother?"

They stepped up onto the wood walk in front of the hotel. Maude turned shocked eyes toward him. "Now, Ezra, as I've said before, cain't a mother just visit her darling son?"

Ezra squinted at her, mouth curling up on one side. "And as I have said, before, no, not you. Now--"

The strangest look came into Maude's eyes, a flash so quick he couldn't quite figure it out before it was gone. "Believe what you may, sugah, but I am only here to visit you and Mister Sanchez."

"Josiah?" Ezra couldn't control his surprise.

Smiling wickedly, Maude said, "Well, Ezra, a good man is hard to find."

A slight grumble from behind them reminded Ezra that their young helper was still standing there. Stepping forward, Ezra held the door for his mother and the young man. Mister Hillyard at the desk was waiting and smiled at the older woman. The man motioned the baggage carrier on upstairs as Maude stepped forward to register. Once that was done, Ezra followed her toward the stairs.

"Oh yes," Maude said, as if just thinking of something. Ezra flinched, waiting for the real reason for her arrival. "After I have refreshed myself I really must find your Mister Larabee and offer my congratulations on his nuptials to Ella."

The bag slammed to the wooden floor as Ezra grabbed his mother by the upper arms. "Ella Larabee?"

Startled by his sudden grip, Maude shook her arms free. "Unless there's another Missus Larabee." she said sarcastically.

"Where did you meet her?" Ezra demanded.

"Why, on the stage between Gila Flats and Eagle Bend."

Holding up his hand, Ezra said, "Wait. We all need to hear this." He took several deep breaths. "Go get refreshed, Mother, then I really must ask you to meet us in the café."

Maude looked like she wanted to protest his ordering her around, but his urgency reached through her stubbornness. "Well, I don't understand what's so important about a chance meeting with the lady but I suppose I could eat something."

Seeing the hesitation in her eyes, Ezra said quietly, "Please, Mother, this is very important." A slight smile lifted his mouth. He knew exactly how to get complete cooperation from his mother. "There is a thousand dollar reward involved."

Ezra flinched at the unholy light that came into the green eyes that were so like his own. He wondered if he looked that predatory when money was involved, and knew that he did. It was no wonder the others hadn't trusted him with the cash. He still wasn't sure he trusted himself with it, even now. The hired young man came back down the stairs, gave Ezra a nod and started for the door.

"Mister Thomas," Ezra caught him. He tossed another coin to the boy. "If you would be so kind, sir, as to help with this last bag." Maude started to give him an outraged remark about being deserted, but he cut her off by giving her a quick kiss on the forehead. "One hour, Mother."

+ + + + + + +

Noting the dangerous light in Larabee's eyes, Ezra once more found himself wishing Vin was back. Depending on the news Maude delivered, Vin might be the only one who could keep Chris from doing something stupid. The man shifted in his chair again. It had taken all of Ezra's persuasive powers to keep Chris from charging up to his mother's room. Now, the gunslinger was chafing at the bit at being forced to wait.

"Ezra?" he growled.

Withdrawing his watch slowly, Ezra tried to control his frown. It was now ten minutes past their appointed meeting time. Josiah cut off any reply though.

"Missus Standish likes to be fashionably late," he observed.

"Like mother, like son," Nathan commented jokingly.

While Ezra didn't always appreciate being compared to his mother, in this instance, he did appreciate his two companions' attempts to placate their impatient leader. Just before Larabee's temper could completely take over, the front door opened and Maude came in amid a swirl of green satin and lace. Ezra had to smile; it did seem he had inherited his sense of fashion from Maude. The four lawmen came to their feet. Josiah offered Maude his hand as he pulled out a chair for her.

"Missus Standish," the preacher intoned smoothly. "You are looking as lovely as ever."

"Why thank you, Mister Sanchez. It is a pleasure--"

"Missus Standish," Chris cut in, leaning across the table. "Ezra says you talked to someone claiming to be my wife."

Ezra flinched, waiting for Maude to criticize Chris for his rude approach. She didn't, to his surprise, her expression turning surprisingly serious. Sitting gracefully down, she nodded. "Yes, Mister Larabee, I did."

"Missus Standish, that... woman is ...."

Maude raised an authoritative hand, stopping his words. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Ezra and the others exchanged quick smiles at Maude's taking command of the conversation.

"Given my son's rather startled reaction to the news, I have spent the last hour finding out exactly what relationship the lady in question shares with you, sir." Shaking her head, she continued by adding, "You can imagine my dismay when I learned the truth."

Her quickly-gained knowledge didn't surprise Ezra. One of the first survival rules was that knowledge was essential to a good con. It was always best to know exactly what the situation was before confronting it.

"The ride I shared with her was from Gila Flats to Eagle Bend. I thought it odd that she had joined us for such a short duration." Maude paused and dipped into her beaded bag. "Now, I realize that it was merely a ruse to get this to you, sir."

A general feeling of dread went through the group as Chris took the ribbon-tied letter. Nathan's assessment of "like mother, like son" was not an idle one. As the stoic shootist read, Maude drew their attention away from him by saying, "The lady, I refuse to use language to describe her adequately, was quite charming, well dressed, traveling alone, though an unsavory gentleman met--"

Chris came up out of his chair so quickly that everyone jumped. The paper crumpled in his hand. From across the table Ezra could see the absolute hate in his eyes. The black-clad man started toward the door without a word. The other three came to their feet, Josiah reaching out to grab Chris' arm. Larabee froze, turning icy green eyes toward the big preacher. Most men would have backed away from the deadly glare, but Josiah only tightened his grip.

"Chris, now is--"

Chris punched him hard enough to stagger him back into Maude's chair. The conwoman gave a cry of alarm, and only Ezra's fast move stopped her from tumbling to the floor. Before the others could recover, Chris was out the door and headed for his horse.

"Damn," Ezra muttered, patting his mother vaguely before sprinting out after Nathan and Josiah.

Nathan had managed to get in front of Chris' horse and was holding desperately to the reins. "Chris, whatever was in that letter, it's got to be a trap."

As Ezra came up next to the dark healer, Chris' hand went to his gun. "Let go!"

"Release him, Mister Jackson," Ezra said quietly. All three stared at him. "If he wishes to die before extracting revenge on Gaines, then the only thing we can do is figure out a way to explain his death to Vin and Buck."

The words were calm, meant to get through the rage that was burning in Chris' expression. Ezra looked up, his gaze centered on the anger- darkened eyes. He spared a quick glance at Nathan, waiting to see if he understood that short of shooting the man, there was nothing they could do to stop him. Nathan stared back at Ezra, seeing what he was trying to do. With a sigh and shake of his head, he released the horse. To Ezra's dismay, Chris nudged the animal forward, pointing him out of town.

"Damn." Josiah echoed Ezra's earlier feelings.

A dozen yards down the street, Chris jerked the gelding to a stop. Ezra held his breath, knowing the other two were doing the same. Even from where he was, Ezra could see the white-knuckled grip Chris had on the thick leather reins. After a minute, the man's head dropped. There was a collective release of sighs as Chris spun his mount around. As if nothing had happened, he came back, dismounted and looped the reins around the hitching rail.

"When JD gets back with Vin and Buck, meet me in the saloon," he said in a low voice.

+ + + + + + +

Once more Chris found himself handing a letter over to Ezra. The others, nursing various stages of their drinks, waited patiently.

"You know what to skip over," Chris told the gambler.

Nodding his understanding, Ezra scanned the letter, took a breath and started: "... so, my love, owing to the unfortunate incident with Smiling Jack, I have been forced to sell our ranch in Hamilton County. You'll be happy to know that I already have workers started on... our place outside of Eagle Bend. I know you'll like the layout. It is beautiful as well as functional. I have added a smaller room for the... children...." Ezra stopped, took a quick glance at Chris and continued, "The head man says the work should be done before September. Once the new ranch house is ready I will telegraph you. I miss you...."

Ezra's smooth voice faded out. When the too-sharp green eyes met his, Chris could see the sympathy in them, and the promise that none of the others would know the more intimate things contained in the letter.

"She's crazier than a longhorn in loco weed," Buck commented dryly.

"So," Vin drawled, "she wants us to come riding out there all bent for leather--"

"No," Ezra said quietly. "I don't believe that is what she expects."

Chris looked over at him. The gambler was staring thoughtfully at the worn green felt of the familiar poker table. Feeling Chris' gaze on him, he looked up.

"Keep talking," Chris urged.

"We are too intelligent to ride into a very obvious ambush. Gaines is aware of that."

Nathan cleared his throat and said, "We'd still have to know if she's there. Reckon we'd send a couple a us out to check."

"But not Chris," JD added. "We'd want to keep him as far away as possible."

"Even if we had to lock him up," Buck said. He was smiling, but his tone warned Chris they would do it. Chris glared at him, letting him know it was not going to be easy.

"I'd send Vin and JD to check the place," Chris said thoughtfully. "Tell 'em to go look and get back here."

"And she'd be expecting them," Nathan reminded them.

"Bait," Buck said quickly. "She cain't beat us together, but if she gets two or three of us...."

"The remaining number would ride out to effect a rescue," Ezra elaborated. "And very probably ride into the same web of trickery."

"Okay, so we know what we wanna do," JD speculated, "and we know what she expects us to do. But what are we gonna do?"

Chris stared at his drink, thinking it through. He wanted Ella, wanted her dead; by his hand if possible, by a hangman's noose otherwise. The others were waiting patiently for him to come up with a plan. What worried him was the possibility that his desire for revenge would color any idea he came up with.

"We give her what she wants," he finally said.

Five pairs of eyes widened in surprise; only Vin nodded.

"I would suggest," Ezra said after a minute, "that you send two of us other than Vin or Buck."

"Why?" Chris asked before Buck and Vin could protest.

"She will be suspicious of Buck because he warned you against her the last time. Vin took a shot at her. The rest of us might be perceived as harmless; therefore, she might be less inclined to dispose of us quite so fast."

"She ain't been inclined that way so far," Chris remarked.

Vin and Buck both frowned but remained silent, seeing the logic in the gambler's argument.

Chris looked up from his empty glass, checking each man. The trust he saw was guarded, cautiously given. A sad smile touched him. These men had ridden into a Seminole village against odds of ten to one without knowing him for more than a few minutes, yet now they were worried about his judgment. It would have been funny--if he hadn't been just as worried.

+ + + + + + +

Putting away the gun oil, Ezra slipped the conversion back into his shoulder holster. He had finished packing only a few minutes before and was now merely making doubly sure he was ready for Gaines and her cohorts. Glancing at the clock on his mantel, he stood to get dressed for dinner with his mother. She would not be happy once she heard he was leaving in the morning before her stage departed. A dutiful son would stay to see his mother off. Smiling a little, he also knew that promising her part of the reward would ease her wounded feelings.

A soft knock sounded at his door. "Yes?"

"It's your mother."

He knew by her tone that something had already put her in a bad mood. Taking a deep breath, he opened the door, smiling widely. "Mother, I had thought our plans--"

"Are you going after this... woman?" Maude demanded as she stormed in, parasol held like a sword in front of her.

Deciding that pretense would get him nowhere, Ezra sighed, "Yes, Mother. It's what I do."

"Ezra...."

Repeating her gesture earlier, he raised his hand. "And for Mister Larabee." He added, sarcastically, "Not to worry, we are unable to collect the bounty. I will make it quite clear to the good Judge Travis that you were instrumental in securing--"

"It would be more convincing if I were to help," Maude said suddenly. "If my claim to the money is to have any validity, I should be there when the woman is caught."

Ezra stared at her as if she where speaking Apache. "What?"

"I was thinking," Maude continued in a conspiratorial tone, "that if I were to go to this ranch and--"

"No!" Ezra snapped out of unaccustomed fear. "Absolutely not!"

"Now, Ezra, there's no reason for her to expect me --."

"Mother," Ezra's tone turned partially pleading, partially sarcastic. "Have you listened to any of the crimes Gaines has committed? She has had four people, that we are aware of, killed, including a woman and child." In a move that he would have never considered had he not come to know Vin, he stepped forward and wrapped the woman in a tight hug. "Please, Mother, promise me that you will continue on to New Orleans tomorrow and not get anywhere near Ella Gaines."

Maude pulled away, staring at him as if he were a total stranger. And in that instant, he saw something in her expression that he had never really been sure of before--love for him. He stepped back in shock. She didn't want to help because of the money; she wanted to go to protect him. Had it always been there and he was only able to see it now because of seeing it in Vin's eyes? Or had Maude, by accepting that he was going to stay with his friends, been forced to admit that he could be killed without ever knowing that she loved him? He didn't know but suddenly standing in front of his mother didn't seem like a place for confrontation anymore.

Without wanting to, he found himself smiling, almost embarrassed at having caught her out. The feeling must have been evident since his mother reflected the look. Ezra could also see the stubbornness he knew only too well in those green eyes. The worry crept back.

"Mother, promise me," he flinched at the term, "that you will not instigate any action concerning Gaines."

"Ezra, honey...."

As much as his mother might care for him, he knew only too well that there was still one thing she cared for more. "You take one step toward that ranch and I will ensure that not a dime of the reward is allocated to you."

Her mouth dropped open slightly, then snapped shut as she glared at him. The defiant look only grew a little stronger and Ezra realized that denial of the reward might have actually been too much of a challenge.

"Mother..."

She gave him an utterly sweet smile. "Don't worry, honey, everything will be fine."

Before he could even make another attempt, she slipped by him with a quick sway of hips and was out the door. Sinking down on the bed, he ran his hands through his hair. "Damn woman."

"And which woman might that be?" Vin asked from where he leaned against the doorframe.

"My darling mother." Ezra confirmed what the lean Texan already knew.

Vin scratched his head, frowning. "What's she gone and done this time?"

"Not done, intends to do," Ezra said shortly. Taking a deep breath, he tried to explain the revelations that had taken place. "She seems to have recently developed a certain amount of maternal instincts which, when coupled with the reward being offered for Gaines, has her determined to assist us in the woman's apprehension."

Ezra couldn't be sure which surprised Vin more, the idea that Maude wanted to help or the idea that she wanted to help keep her son safe. Shaking his head, he said, "That ain't a good idea."

"Yes, so I have tried to tell her," Ezra snapped. He regretted the tone immediately. "My apologies, Vin. I'm taking this out on you when it isn't your concern."

The door slammed behind Vin with a touch more force than was necessary. Vin was suddenly beside him, callused hand under his chin, lifting his face.

Vin said, "It concerns you, so it concerns me."

The love that never failed to amaze him sparkled in the blue eyes. Sliding his hand around Vin's neck, he urged the man down to meet his lips. Vin came to him, the kiss warm and gentle, a reassurance against the world. Before Ezra could response as enthusiastically as he wanted, Vin sat back with a sigh.

"Not right now," he said regretfully. "Chris wants all a us down to the saloon."

"Now?" Ezra demanded.

"'Fraid so. He's got a map of his place drawed up, wants to go over the plan for tomorrow."

"Very well," Ezra concurred. "I'll finish dressing and meet you downstairs."

+ + + + + + +

Vin hated being late for things, and he knew Ezra would wonder where he was, but this was something he had to do. Raising his hand, he tentatively knocked on the hotel room door. A second later Maude opened the door, her flash of surprise at seeing him immediately hidden.

"Mister Tanner," she said easily. "To what do I owe the honor of this visit?"

Knowing that it was improper, Vin asked, "May I come in, please ma'am?"

She regarded him carefully for a minute, then held the door open. He took off his hat and stepped into the well appointed room. Three trunks were spread out near the large, four poster bed. He noticed that Maude had already changed dresses twice that day. Turning back, he fumbled with his hat for a minute, trying to think of where to start.

"Honey, I'm not going to bite," Maude said with a hint of impatience. In a more soothing tone, she added, "You have obviously come here for a reason."

"Ezra told me you're thinking on riding out to the Larabee place, trying to help get Gaines," Vin said.

The poker face that Ezra could effect with everyone but him now settled on his mother's features. "What I plan on doing--"

"Ma'am," Vin interrupted. "I lost my ma when I was five and to this day it still hurts. Ezra's my friend. I don't want him feeling that way any sooner than God intended. Please, Missus Standish," he pleaded, "don't do it."

It was funny, watching the same emotions play on her face that played so often on her son's. Stubbornness hit first and Vin almost sighed in defeat. But as he watched something changed; Maude's lips softened and the defiance faded. Vin suddenly found himself being studied hard. After a minute, Maude's green eyes closed and she sighed. As Vin watched in confusion, she nodded to herself.

"Very well," she said quietly. "Since it seems Ezra is so concerned about the mental capacity of this lady, I suppose it best to continue on to New Orleans."

Vin couldn't stop the smile that spread across his face. "Thank you, ma'am." Ducking his head, he fought his smile under control and headed for the door.

"Mister Tanner."

He turned back. "Ma'am?"

Maude was watching him closely again with a soft smile on her face. "I know that you don't think much of how I... how Ezra was brought up."

"That ain't...."

"But he is my son, sir, and I... care about him." She took a step closer and gripped his lower arm. "You take good care of him."

Vin stared at her. The instincts that usually served him well were telling him that Maude knew, that she understood what Ezra meant to him--and was giving the closest thing he would ever get to a blessing. She was also seeking reassurance. Not one to normally touch, he nevertheless covered the small soft hand that rested on his arm.

Swallowing around the tightness in his throat, he promised, "I'll take real good care of him, ma'am. Truth is, we'll take care of each other."

The hand on his arm tightened for just a minute, then Maude coughed delicately, breaking the mood. "Tell my son that I expect him for dinner tonight promptly at five."

"Yes, ma'am, I'll tell him."

Eleven

Vin tightened his hold on the assassin's special rifle and peered through the sight again. Below, on a rise just to the south of the under-construction farmhouse, he could see Ezra and Josiah moving stealthily through the trees. Ezra had changed out his bright red coat for a more neutral dark green. Keeping the two men in sight, Vin forced his hand to be steady.

The plan was easy enough, probably as safe as any of the dangerous games they had played in the past. They would take out the hired guns, hopefully taking at least one alive, to tell them when Ella would be arriving or how they would contact her. Then it was only a matter of waiting. No one had any illusions that they would catch Ella in the house She was far too crafty to be anywhere around for the first part of her plan.

The whole plan, as well as Ezra and Josiah's lives, depended on Gaines' wanting to keep them alive until she was sure she had Chris. That had been the one thought that nagged Vin since Chris had chosen the two men to act as bait. It was pure torture lying on the rise, waiting for the hired guns to make their move, knowing that if they chose simply to shoot the two lawmen, there was nothing he could do about it from this far away.

Even as Vin watched, four men moved behind his two companions. He took a sharp breath despite expecting it. A hand landed on his shoulder.

"Easy, Vin," Buck said quietly. "They'll be okay."

"Got no promises on that, Bucklin," Vin reminded him.

Chris was suddenly next to them, lying belly down in the tall grass. "JD's got three spotted just over the next hill. Nathan and I counted another three to the south."

"From the number of horses, that leaves two in the house," Vin observed.

Chris nodded his agreement. "Okay, boys, just like we planned it. Buck, the three on the hill belong to you and JD. Nathan and I'll take the three to the south." He patted Vin on the shoulder. "Soon as you hear my first shot, take down at least two of those tracking Josiah and Ezra. That'll cut the odds enough to let them take it from there."

Without taking his eyes off the two figures below, Vin asked, "What if these guys start shooting first?"

"Then we go on the first shot," Chris replied blandly.

The other two men moved off in opposite directions. Below, their opponents were being as cautious as the two lawmen, moving slowly, waiting for something. Long, quiet minutes went by while Vin fought to keep his breathing steady, images from his time on the roof haunting him. All he could see was Ezra being shot again.

Before the waiting could completely wear on his nerves, two shots shattered the morning stillness. With the sound still echoing, Vin squeezed the trigger twice. The two gunmen closest to Ezra were thrown back into the heavy brush. The remaining two gunmen whirled toward Vin instinctively, letting Josiah and Ezra quickly get the drop on them. Coming to his feet, Vin cast a quick look toward the rise to the south. He could see Nathan and Chris starting down towards the house, pushing three of the ambushers ahead of them. Turning, he spotted the last two of their group, Buck and JD, leading their captives through the heavy woods that surrounded the back of the house.

Lowering the rifle, he let a wide grin touch his face. The plan had worked with the same smooth efficiency that had always marked the team. A feeling of things settling joined the relief he felt.

A barrage of shots riddled the trees around him and he hit the ground with a yell of surprise. Rolling into the safety of a downed oak, he searched the area, trying to figure out where the shots were coming from. Two more bullets splintered the dead wood next to him, pieces bouncing off his thick coat. Whipping his hat off, he rolled over and checked where he had last seen the others. Ezra and Josiah were also being fired on, though they were safely behind trees, returning fire toward the house. Worry grabbed him as he couldn't find any of the others, though flashes of gunpowder and clouds of smoke told him that there was someone in the area where he thought Buck and JD should be. A quick movement showed him Nathan throwing one of his prisoners toward a tree, obviously intending to tie him up. He assumed the darker shape moving in the shadows nearby was Chris.

Another shot grooved the tree next to him and he realized that the fire was coming from two angles. Vin had checked the surrounding hills as they had ridden in, but somehow the gunmen had gotten behind him and to their south. Rolling toward a heavier tree, he glanced toward the house. The men firing at them had rifles, but if they made the house they might stand a chance. In the shadows to the south he could see Nathan and Chris moving down toward the building.

It was a trap. With sudden clarity Vin knew they were being driven toward the house, toward those two or three open yards that would give anyone inside clear shots at them. Before he could gain his feet to shout a warn he saw Chris make a break--toward where Buck and JD had found the real safety of the old spring house. Snaking over another log, Vin could see Ezra and Josiah also fairly secure in a nest of rotting fence posts.

Now, through the open spaces between the trees, he could make out their opponents. He counted four moving after Chris and Nathan, none of them firing. Gaines wanted Chris alive. That would buy the gunslinger and healer a measure of safety. Gaines' men wouldn't shoot unless they had a clear shot at Nathan. For Josiah, Ezra, or himself, their best hope to avoid being surrounded was to get to the horses.

With a yell he popped up and killed one of the men drawing down on Josiah. A bullet scored across his leg, just above the boot, knocking him back. Spinning in mid-air, Vin landed on his back, taking out the one who had fired. He could see three lining the rise he had just left; three more taking up a position behind Buck and JD. Vin knew that now, while the men were moving, was their only hope to break out. A yell from below let him know that Chris had also seen the chance.

The others came up firing, Buck and JD aiming for the ones behind them, while Chris and Nathan opened up on the ones moving toward the high ground. There was a scramble across the small open area as Ezra and Josiah bolted from cover, running full tilt toward the cut where the horses were tethered. Vin turned around, surprising the men behind him by running directly toward them before breaking hard to the west and diving down behind the hill. Just as he landed he saw Josiah stumble. Ezra was there, sliding his shoulder under the larger man and keeping them moving.

Now all the fire from the four trapped lawmen concentrated on keeping their attackers pinned down. Vin lost sight of everyone as he sprinted up the incline, angling to meet Josiah and Ezra at the horses. A sharp pain ripped up his leg and he spared a quick glance down. There was only a slight amount of blood, proving the wound to be an annoyance but not dangerous. He hoped the same was true of Josiah.

"Stop them!" someone screamed out. "They'll get away."

Vin smiled at that. These guys had no idea of what they were up against. Dropping to one knee, he came to a complete standstill in the cover of the brush, rifle poised and ready. Two men came crashing through the trees; they were shot before they ever saw the tracker. Gunfire was echoing through the hills, making it impossible to know where it was centered. Gripping the rifle to him, Vin fought his fear under control and sprinted toward his two friends. He slowed down the last ten yards and edged cautiously into the cottonwoods where the horses were tied. He sighed in relief at the sight that met him.

"What kept you?" Ezra drawled casually.

The gambler was reloading, leaning against his horse. Next to him Josiah was doing the same, through he was leaning a little more heavily on his animal, standing mostly on one leg.

"Josiah?"

The big man gave him one of his wide grins. "Nothing to speak of. Yourself?"

Vin saw the worry in the blue-gray eyes, caught the sharp breath from Ezra. "Less nothing than yours I'd judge."

Ezra snapped the cylinder back into the Remington. He moved to the picket line, untied Buck and JD's mounts. Vin followed him, doing the same for Chris and Nathan's horses. One glance went among the three of them; Vin asking the question of Josiah in silence. He was answered with a quick nod.

"Four on the south, two or more in the house, four to the west...." Ezra started.

"Two on the west," Vin corrected.

A smile and nod was Ezra's return. "I'll take the south."

"Leaves the west for me," Vin said.

"Guess I'll take the house," Josiah agreed.

They mounted as one, though Josiah gave a small grunt of pain as he shoved his leg into the stirrup. He managed a quick, deadly smile before moving off toward the rise. Vin turned his attention to Ezra. There was a quick touch of two fingers to his black hat and a single look of love from the jade eyes before the gambler urged his horse into a gallop. Vin followed him, not daring to think what they might find when they came over the hill.

The three riders paused for just an instant, judging the situation. Buck and JD were still by the building, still in one piece given the amount of cursing and bullets coming from their location. Vin could see that Nathan and Chris had made their way to the corral, using water troughs as cover. The fire toward them was light, as the hired guns were afraid of hitting Chris. Vin scanned the narrow, rocky trail down, knew that Ezra was checking out his own route. Vin handed the two horses' reins down to Josiah. Moving to the side, Josiah slid off his horse and tied all three animals to a strong tree.

"You boys ready?" Josiah asked as he knelt down, leaning forward over a low branch.

The answer was a surprising rebel yell from Ezra as he kicked his horse and started headlong down the sharp incline. Josiah opened up, firing at the barely-seen targets around Buck and JD. A heartbeat later, Vin urged his horse down the dangerous trail, all his concentration going to the two men he could see holed up now behind a stand of new lumber. Vin dropped the reins as his horse hit open land, grabbed the extra pistol from his pants and began firing off either side, knowing he wouldn't hit anything, but offering more protection for Ezra and himself by keeping the gunmen ducking. He made the trees on the far side of the farmhouse, whirled the horse and started back across.

Ezra crashed through the trees nearest Buck and JD.

"Go! Go!" Buck yelled, urging JD on.

JD took three strides and leapt up onto the sturdy animal. Whirling around, the sheriff now joined Ezra in providing cover for Buck.

A bullet tore a hunk of mane off Vin's horse, and he slipped down the opposite side, hanging by one stirrup and shooting under the neck, as he'd learned from the Comanche. As much as he'd hate to lose his horse, it was better than losing his life.

Buck was in the saddle now and the three spurred away, heading for the safety of the hill. Reining in his horse behind them, Vin added his rifle to their firepower. By the time they reached the crest of the hill, Josiah was leaning against a tree, tying off a bandanna wrapped around his calf. He limped over and mounted.

"Glad to see you boys," he said with a smile.

"Not as glad as we are to see you," JD said with enthusiastic sincerity.

"Reckon we'd better go get those two laggers," Buck said firmly.

Josiah untied the last two horses and held the reins up. Ezra and JD took them without a word. They immediately divided: Buck, Ezra and JD riding along the ridge circling west; Josiah and Vin following along the hill east and south. Two safe, two more to get out.

Vin watched as Josiah eased his horse to halfway down the hill, dismounted and once again crouched in the shadow of a large oak, resting the heavy rifle on one branch. At a right angle to him, Vin could see the other three riders poised and ready. Silent signals flashed across open meadow and wooded hill. Vin nudged his horse, and they charged down the small rise toward their trapped companions.

From the periphery of his vision, Vin saw Buck drop out of sight behind the rise, while Ezra and JD came down at an angle that would put them directly opposite him and at a right angle to Buck. Vin paused just slightly on the top of the hill, picked out his first target, and waited for the signal. It came with Buck's sudden emergence and the sound of Josiah's rifle sending some sinner to hell. Ezra and JD charged down the hill, both low over their horses' necks. Vin opened fire, watching one man fall before switching targets to the last of the men he could see. Doing some quick arithmetic, he knew there couldn't be more than five of the ambushers left. As he urged his horse to move, he searched the hills for another target.

A flash of fire came from his left. He followed it back and started to sight down the rifle when there was a cry of alarm from Josiah. Snapping off a quick shot, he turned around in the saddle and was shocked to see another half-dozen men riding hard toward the house, directly toward Chris and Nathan.

"Damn!"

Ezra and JD were in the open, galloping toward their companions, too far into the clear to turn back; they were committed to the rescue. He didn't have time to see much else. Spurring hard around, Vin headed toward their new attackers, knowing without looking that Buck was also headed directly toward the men, firing. Their shots scattered the bushwhackers, driving them into the trees. He took out one, saw another go down from someone's shot. Just before he hit open ground, he turned, dodging back into the trees.

"Vin! Buck!"

He heard the scream of his name over the shots bouncing through the woods around him. Looking over his shoulder he saw that the four near the corral were now all mounted and ready to ride. A feral smile touched his face as he realized what Chris had in mind. He raised his rifle in signal.

Across from him, Buck had bailed off his horse, was crouched in the shadows, firing fast, not expecting to hit anything but keeping the men pinned down. Vin flung his leg over the gelding's neck, firing. Hitting the ground at a run, he reached a spot that let him see both the ambushers and the open ground between the corral and woods. The four men at the corral gave a final volley of fire, then spun and galloped away from the firefight, up toward where Josiah was still providing cover.

Their luck deserted them halfway up. As JD's horse slowed to take the steep incline, it went down. Vin's breath caught as he watched, desperately waiting for some movement. Horse and rider were both frighteningly still.

"Move, JD," Vin pleaded under his breath. "Damn it, move."

There was a shift from the young sheriff, then a sudden movement as he shook off the daze of landing. JD pushed out from under the dead animal and for a minute Vin was afraid he would stand up. But JD had learned his lessons well; he remained crouched behind the horse, using it for cover. There was a flash of movement in the trees and Ezra galloped back down. Vin opened fire again, shooting without targeting, trying to draw attention from the downed man and his rescuer. JD grabbed Ezra's outstretched arm and landed neatly behind the saddle; the horse spun away, disappearing into the trees once more. Vin let out a whoosh of breath.

A bullet slammed into the tree nearest him, sharply calling his attention back to his own situation. As he ducked, an eerie moment of silence filled the little meadow. From what Vin could tell, the odds were now pretty much even. Seven to eight men lay hidden in the trees with two to four in the shell of a house. He and Buck were pinned down, but the other five lawmen had a free rein in getting them out. Vin smiled, wondering if the remaining bushwhackers had any clue about how bad their situation was, about who was really being hunted. A whoop of attack from what sounded like Nathan gave them warning.

It was all the surviving hired gun needed. There were barely-heard curses as they scrambled for their horses. Vin looked to where Ezra and Nathan were charging toward them. Along the top of the rise, he could see Chris and Buck circling. The two men would be too late to catch the hired guns, but Vin knew that wasn't their intention; they were there to urge them along. The men in the house were now caught in their own trap. There were also the prisoners Nathan had tied up earlier as well as any of the wounded ones left alive. Someone would tell them about Ella, hopefully without any one else having to die.

He threw a few half- hearted shots at the retreating figures before turning his attention to the shooting still going on behind him. While Buck, Chris and Nathan chased the last few off, the others were making sure the ones in the house weren't inclined to leave. Vin moved closer, keeping a careful eye out, but holding his fire. A minute later Chris rode up next to him, reining his horse in, but staying mounted.

"In the house!" he shouted.

At his shout the others stopped firing, holding their guns ready.

"You're all that's left," Chris yelled. "Give up or we shoot the place to pieces."

Before the echo of his order had died, guns started sailing out of the windows. Cautiously, Vin stood, keeping his rifle waist high.

"Come on out!" Chris ordered.

Five men emerged from the house, looking surly and angry. Ezra, JD and Nathan, guns out, rushed forward and knocked the survivors to the ground.

Vin looked around the top of the hills, fully expecting another attack. When nothing happened, he started toward the men now on their knees in front of the partially rebuilt structure. He spotted Josiah making his way down with painful steps. Buck took Nathan's place as the healer instinctively headed for their wounded companion.

"Sit down, JD," the ex-slave yelled. "I'll see to you next."

"I'm fine," JD argued.

Chris remained still for a minute, then surged past him.

"He's coming down, Buck!" Vin yelled in warning, knowing that Chris was not going to be gentle in his questioning.

Vin trotted down the incline, arriving just in time to watch Chris yank one of the men to his feet by the collar. No one moved to intervene. It was, after all, the reason they had come.

Chris' voice cut through the silence. "Ella Gaines," he said through clenched teeth. "Where is she?"

"I don't know who--"

The gun was in Chris' hand before Vin could blink. The click of the hammer turned the prisoner pale, bringing sweat to his face. Vin edged a little closer, making sure he was within reach of Chris' arm.

"Where?" Chris' tone was deadly soft, like the whisper of a rattlesnake in sand.

"Mister, please, I ain't sure how to find her--"

"Shut up, Clay," another one barked.

Eyes that could cut glass switched to the man who had spoken. Chris set down the first man with exaggerated care, took two strides to the other one. He didn't bother picking this one up, just rested the nuzzle of the gun against his forehead.

"You have till three," Chris warned.

The man had more guts than brains as he managed to sneer up at Chris. "I ain't telling you shit. Lady that hired us--"

"One."

"You're a lawman," the man said, though his sneer was fading. "You cain't--"

"Two."

Real panic filled his eyes now.

"Thre--" ;

"Stop!" the man screamed.

"Talk!" Chris' knuckles were white around the bone handle of the gun. Vin watched, not wanting to let his friend shoot the man but knowing he would, if that was what it took to get them closer to Gaines.

"I don't know how to find her!" The man was nearly babbling. "We never seen her. Was all by wire. Sent us three hundred dollars each, said we'd get the other half when she got word y'all were all dead."

"Get the word how?" Ezra asked carefully.

Chris stepped back, taking deep breaths as he fought to control the anger, content to let Ezra ask the questions. Vin nearly smiled. It was one thing the gambler was very good at.

"Newspaper, she said after all the news on the Magnificent Seven, it'd be easy to prove you were dead," another of the men volunteered.

"Where did the wires originate?" Ezra demanded.

Vin could see the desperation and anger was coming back into Larabee's expression. They were all frowning as it was starting to seem they had once again been out maneuvered.

"Chicago."

"Aw shit," Buck muttered.

Vin jumped as Chris brought his gun up, aiming for the outlaw's head, hammer back, finger already tightening on the trigger. It was only the adrenaline from the fight that let him shove Chris' arm up so that the bullet fired into the uncaring sky. Chris went to shake Vin loose only to be grabbed from behind by Buck. Between the two of them, they dragged him away from the shaken prisoners.

"Chris!" Buck was yelling. "This ain't getting us nowhere."

"Nothing is getting us anywhere!" Chris screamed back. "We've been after the bitch for eight fucking weeks now and we're no closer than we were!"

"I disagree," Ezra said smoothly. "I believe, that while this miscreant may be speaking the truth as he knows it, Gaines is not in Chicago."

The level words seemed to reach Chris like nothing Vin or Buck could say. Vin eased his grip as the bigger gunslinger stopped struggling, but both he and Buck kept their hands on his arms. They all turned to look at Ezra.

"What?" Chris demanded.

"While our little band might make a few waves in the pond of local newsworthy events, I hardly doubt Gaines would relay on a newspaper article as proof of our demise."

"Get to the damn point," Chris growled.

Ezra didn't even flinch at the sharp command. "The point is two- fold, Mister Larabee. Gaines would never rely on that flimsy style of proof, and she would want to be within easy access of you once the rest of us had been dispatched by these villains."

Chris shook off Vin's hand. He stepped away, took several deep breaths. "That still don't tell us where she is."

"No," Nathan agreed, standing from where he had been finishing with Josiah's wound. "But it does tell us where she ain't."

"Chicago," Ezra finished.

Something Ezra had said made Vin chew his lip in thought. "You might be wrong on one thing, Ezra."

Looking chagrined at the mere thought, Ezra asked, "And what would that be?"

"Ella might believe a newspaper, if it were close at hand," Vin said. Pointing toward the second group of captured men, he added, "Those boys that were in the house might have been here a good while, but those owlhoots knew we were coming."

"We were right before--" JD said.

"We got ourselves a spy," Nathan finished.

"They would have let her know when we rode out," Buck added.

"In plenty of time to get these boys on the trail," Vin finished their quick circle.

A long silence filled the small area. It was Nathan who finally broke it. "We cain't do nothing 'bout it standing here jawing. Josiah's leg needs some better tending. I say we get these snakes back to town and figure it out there."

"A fine idea, Mister Jackson," Ezra agreed. "A visit to the bath house and a good meal have certainly been earned today."

Vin had been watching Chris through all of this, through the knowledge that once more Gaines had slipped away, that once more he was denied justice. He could see the man retreating into the dark places Larabee knew so well, the ones that had kept him alone and haunted for so long. Stepping forward, Vin gripped Chris' arm. The stormy eyes glanced up from under the black hat.

"Chris, we got a track now. Only a matter of time 'fore we find the bitch."

Under his hand Vin felt Chris relax a little. The man drew another deep breath and exhaled slowly.

"Let's get the horses rounded up, get these bastards on them and back to town," he ordered.

+ + + + + + +

As Ezra started toward his own mount, he saw JD walk slowly toward his dead horse. He frowned, realizing that what he had taken as shock over his close call was in fact JD's upset over the loss of his mare. Changing his course, Ezra came up behind the younger man and laid an arm over his shoulder.

"Allow me to help you with the tack, Mister Dunne," he said softly.

"Thanks, Ezra," JD replied. "Guess I'm gonna have to buy a new horse."

The boy's voice wavered just a little and Ezra wondered if any of them were ever this young, innocent enough to be upset over the loss of a horse. As they reached the dead mare, Ezra offered, "She was a fine animal, JD. I believe she would be quite content that it was her and not you."

JD looked up at him, fighting to keep the tears hidden. "Aw hell, Ezra, it was just... a horse."

Respecting the dignity JD was struggling so hard to maintain, Ezra merely knelt and helped pull the saddle from under the dead animal. As they rose, he noticed the others rounding up the horses that the deceased bushwhackers had been using.

"Mister Dunne," he said with a slight smile. "I believe the purchase of a horse will not be necessary since our would-be killers were kind enough to leave a good selection behind."

JD turned, wiping his eyes on his sleeve. "What? Oh." The easterner studied the animals for a minute, then looked at Ezra. "Would you help me pick one out?"

Touching two fingers to his hat, Ezra said, "It would be an honor, sir."

To his surprise, JD suddenly gave him a watery smile. "Well, guess it wasn't all bad." At Ezra's confused look, he added, "It's back."

For a minute Ezra stared at the young sheriff, then the long-ago conversation at Chris' bedside came back to him. He tilted his head slightly, watching his friends tie up prisoners and gather the outlaws' horses; watched Buck and Nathan help Josiah to his feet; saw the way Vin stayed close to Chris. The fight had been fast and furious with not one step wrong, the deadly dance choreographed perfectly. The music, the rhythm was back, the notes clear and clean once more.

"JD, my boy, you are very observant. And you are correct."

+ + + + + + +

They had arrived back in town well after dark but Ezra managed to persuade the owner of the bathhouse that after the hard-fought battle they were in desperate need of a soothing bath. At least he told himself it was his persuasiveness and not Chris' glare that did it. A few extra cents and the baths were opened. It was both exceedingly tough and very pleasant when the others joined him. Pleasant since the harmony between them was now restored and tough owing to having not to stare at Vin.

As the evening wore on with idle chatter, everyone avoiding talk of Gaines, a new feeling started through him. While he had refrained from even stealing a quick peek at Vin, it was more from modesty than the old terrors. And that scared him. If he lost the fear of being caught, it meant getting careless. The demons were old friends that had kept him safe. Now, they were fading under the love of the lean tracker and the growing feeling of caring from the others.

"If you gentlemen will excuse me," he said, carefully positioning the towel and climbing out. "My finances have been woefully neglected recently. I believe I saw some potential investors arrive on yesterday's stage."

"Be at the Clarion nine tomorrow morning." Chris didn't bother looking out from under the hot towel he had resting across his face.

Ezra gave an exaggerated sigh. "What exactly is your obsession with early rising, Mister Larabee?"

"Hell, Ezra," Vin chimed in before Chris could reply, "nine is downright late for some of us."

Looking over, using the excuse to admire the way the water darkened Vin's hair, Ezra said, "Some of us are blessed with a nature that suits our profession, Mister Tanner." And despite the thoughts that had driven him to leave early, he dared to hold Vin's gaze. "Though I must confess that tonight I believe I will be abed before midnight. Good evening, gentlemen."

He hid the smile that the gleam in Vin's eyes started. Once he was out into the quiet, warm night, the darker thoughts returned, reinforced by the easy way he had smiled at Vin, had practically told him to come to the room at midnight.

Deliberately, he made himself look for the demons, remember the terror. Despite the companionship from the other five and the love from Vin, the memories were surprisingly easy to find. The pain had faded; the betrayal and loneliness had not. The horrible days in the wilderness, stretching his food out while he was still too injured to move easily; praying to die while struggling to live. He held on to those dark terrors, to that pain. He had to hold on to that, for Vin's sake.

The game, as it always did took away any thoughts but winning. Near midnight, feeling much more relaxed, he stuffed his winnings into his coat and headed for the room. A shiver of anticipation made its way down his back and centered on his groin. As much as he feared anyone finding out, it never occurred to him to worry about someone seeing Vin come into his room at odd hours. The Texan was far too careful for that.

Before he opened the door, Ezra knew Vin was already inside. Reaching for the lamp, he turned it up and took a sharp breath at the sight that greeted him. Vin had already stripped; he was lying on the bed with the cover pushed down to his feet. He was on his side; one hand was under his head, the other idly stroking his cock. The desire from the bathhouse just to stand and admire overwhelmed Ezra and for a long minute he just let himself feast on the sight.

"Damn, Ezra, you're looking at me like a starving man looks at a steak," Vin chuckled.

"That is a very apt analogy," Ezra said a little breathlessly.

Vin held his hand out, urging Ezra over and into a deep kiss. "What's a an... alogy?"

"A comparison," Ezra explained. Smiling, he added, "Like you being as beautiful as a royal flush on a full pot."

Nodding, Vin said, "Like you are as perfect as a sunrise over a new snow?"

Ezra merely snorted at the flattery. Reaching for his buttons, he let himself undress slowly, staring at Vin, enjoying the way the gold lamplight created intriguing shadows along the smooth chest, around the long, thick cock and dark circle of hair. Vin's return gaze was just as hot, just as needful. Ezra pulled his boots off while still standing, then eased his pants down and stepped to the bed. The smile that had been on Vin's face since Ezra walked in now turned more sultry, eyes raking down the gambler's body.

Feeling bold, Ezra let himself touch his own cock. It was only a couple of strokes, only enough to let Vin know that the fears, at least in his presence, were gone. The beautiful, shadowed eyes glittered up at him. Vin reached out, trailed one finger along the curling scar.

All of Ezra's thoughts from the street vanished like spring snow under the sunrise Vin had spoken of. He took a large measure of comfort from Vin's promise to stay out of it if Ezra were discovered. Riding on alone would be the hardest thing Ezra would ever do, but he would risk that future pain for one more night in Vin's arms.

As if reading his thoughts, Vin took his hand and pulled him into bed, claiming him in a hot kiss, sliding his tongue slowly into Ezra's mouth. Ezra moaned as the wet invader entwined his own tongue, gliding against it with sensual ease. Trying to keep his wits and body under control, Ezra leaned away.

"Tonight," he demanded.

Vin didn't pretend to misunderstand; he studied Ezra for a moment, sky-blue eyes seeming to read his soul. Ezra let all the love and lust he was feeling answer that searching gaze. After a minute, Vin smiled that soft half-smile that never failed to melt Ezra's insides.

"Reckon you cain't stay a virgin forever," Vin joked, hands skimming over Ezra's smooth chest.

Drawing himself up and trying to look indignant, Ezra protested, "At this point in our relationship, I would hardly be considered a virgin by anyone's standards."

Instead of continuing to joke, Vin kissed lightly along his chin. "You'd never been made love to 'fore me, Ezra, makes you a virgin in my view."

There was no argument for that, especially since Vin gave Ezra's nipple a quick nip, rendering him speechless. What he did manage was a sharp gasp of breath and to press himself hard against the lean tracker, begging for more. The answer was for Vin to lick gently over the same nipple before moving to suck on the other one. Ezra let all his awareness center on the still-unbelievable feel of his cock swelling. Shimmers started in his blood. Vin's talented mouth left his nipple and continued down his chest, stopping just at his stomach.

Ezra sighed, having learned by now how Vin like to tease, to make sure he was good and ready for whatever his love had in mind. The blue eyes reflected the lamplight, sparkled with pride and love.

"That was good riding this afternoon," Vin said.

The pride in the silver edged voice brought a warmth to Ezra's chest that joined the love already there. In all his life he had never had anyone tell him things like that, hadn't known how much he wanted, needed to hear it. Even Chris' comment to him after he'd been shot, that he had done a good job, had meant more to him than the money that had been tucked in his coat.

He felt a slight blush start up his cheeks, something else he had discovered he could do where Vin was concerned. "I trusted to Mister Dunne's ability to vault onto the horse."

Vin's callused hands roamed down his side, almost tickling. He squirmed a little and Vin stopped, giving him a smile that said he could do it for real but wouldn't--this time.

"Why'd he have you help him pick out a horse?" Vin wondered, stroking lightly along Ezra's chest again, letting him relax and drift on the love for just a minute.

"I had noticed his distress over the loss of his own mare," Ezra explained, letting his eyes drift closed. "It was his way of acknowledging my sympathies."

The hand on his chest stopped, and he opened his eyes to see Vin grinning down at him, eyes crinkled with mischief. "You soft- hearted fake."

A little confused, Ezra said, "To what are you ...."

Vin rolled on top of him, straddling his waist. "Giving little Chinese girls money, sending wagons of supplies out to those kids on the reservation, noticing when JD was hurt over his horse getting killed--and all the while you're wanting everybody to see this tough, poker-faced gambler."

The words were spoken between butterfly-light kisses along his cheeks, down his throat, over each ear. By the time Vin had finished, Ezra was breathless for more. He pushed up, rubbing his cock against Vin's hard-muscled ass. Vin's smile turned wicked.

"Ain't nothing says I got to take you tonight," he said huskily. Reaching behind him, he pressed Ezra's cock into the cleft of his ass. Ezra closed his eyes, letting the feel of warm flesh and talented fingers tempt him. Forcing himself away from the too-hot images, he stared up at Vin. He took Vin's full cock in his hand, playing lightly along the head, rubbing his thumb over the already weeping slit.

"No deal, my love," he said firmly. "I want to experience you every way, all around me, inside me, part of me."

It was Vin's turn to close his eyes and drift with Ezra's touch. "Damn, Ezra, I think I've made you way too dangerous."

"I'm certain you can handle me," Ezra quipped.

Vin slid down until he was stretched fully out on Ezra. "Yeah, reckon I'm man enough for you."

The feelings from the bathhouse, the exhilaration from the fight, and the love that filled the room all came together to flood Ezra's heart with more happiness than he could ever remember. He laughed, grabbing Vin and rolling him over, kissing along the slightly bony shoulders, down the muscled arms and chest. Vin was chuckling under him, catching the joy in Ezra's moves. After a couple of minutes they both lay back, panting and giving an occasional moan.

Pushing himself up on one elbow, Ezra said quietly, "I love you, Vin Tanner, more than any words I could speak, more than any poetry, even yours, could ever convey."

Vin smiled back. "Forever, Ezra."

The next kiss was slow and deep, Vin's tongue twining with his in easy familiarity. Ezra moaned as the knowing hands drifted down his back, urging him closer. He laid a hand on Vin's side and gently pushed him over so that his chest was pressed up against his slim lover's back. Kneading the tight ass, he let his fingers drift down to the tight open of Vin's body, teased over the ridged muscle. Vin moaned, rolling almost to his stomach and opening his legs a little more. Ezra smiled. The reality of tonight being the night was making him impatient.

He started licking down the arched spine. The taste and smell of Vin filled his blood like fine bourbon. He reached over Vin's narrow hips and squeezed the big cock while continuing to stroke over the puckered muscle. The moves were familiar, comfortable. Trailing up the strong back, he nuzzled into the long hair, feeling the silky strains glide over his cheeks and lips. He started stroking the heavy cock, pushing his finger into Vin's body just enough to breach the muscle. Vin moaned, shoving back. Ezra moved his finger away, knowing that Vin's lust would override his common sense and that if he went any deeper he would need some lubricant.

"Damn, Ezra," Vin said huskily. "Get some grease on that and let's get on with this."

Ezra gave an earthy chuckle. "Oh no, my love, remember who's going to be taken tonight."

Half-turning, Vin said, "Then quit your teasing...."

Raising up a little, he threw his leg over Vin's and rubbed his cock against Vin's hip. "I learned from the best."

Vin rolled to his back, holding the shorter man in place so that Ezra ended up straddling Vin's thighs. The two cocks rubbed sensuously together. Ezra leaned down, kissing Vin's nipples, then taking his mouth in a slow, long kiss. They broke apart, gasping for air. Vin moaned as Ezra's cock raked against his. Ezra stared down in awe. Vin's eyes were closed, lips curled in need and pleasure, square jaw tight, dark hair a halo around the handsome face.

"I never believed I could make anyone feel like this," Ezra whispered.

Returning his smile, Vin said, "'Times I feel like this just thinking 'bout you."

Ezra started to thrust but Vin took the lead, rolling them over so that he was once more on top of Ezra. The Texan slipped off, reaching for the vial of oil he had placed on the nightstand. Ezra watched, entranced by the way the dark gold bottle picked up the light from the lamp. Vin kissed him again. Ezra moaned, stroking his cock back against his stomach. Vin eased away from the kiss and slapped his hand away.

"No getting ahead," Vin said firmly.

"Then I suggest...."

"Roll over," Vin whispered.

Ezra immediately came to his hands and knees, sliding back to the edge of the bed. Vin merely put a hand in the center of his back and pushed him down.

Vin said, "Gotta long way to go 'fore you're up on all fours."

Strong hands urged him to move until Ezra found himself on his side, top leg forward. A soft sigh escaped him.

"You get more handsome every time I look at you," Vin said.

"The view from there can hardly be that inspiring," Ezra quipped.

"Downright spectacular," Vin said. Ezra could hear the smile in his voice.

Words once more deserted him as Vin started kissing him again, beginning with the rough entrance to his body. Ezra moaned softly, reaching for his shaft. Vin's hand was already there, fingers closing to glide from base to tip. The callused thumb flicked lightly over the head and Ezra gasped.

Vin's tongue trailed from the base of his spine down to the narrow strip of skin behind his cock. Then, with a quick movement, Vin began to lick around the small hole. Ezra froze, knowing what was coming, waiting, tense and ready. With a supreme effort, he forced himself to hold still, having learned that movement only fanned the sparks into an inferno.

Ezra tried to turn his attention to something besides the hot body behind him. The only thing that came to mind was the differences he had noted between himself and his lover. The scars were not the only difference. Vin's shaft was bigger, both longer and thicker. A small thread of worry touched Ezra at that thought. Vin had never hurt him, each move, each step being incredibly gentle and patient. Still, when he had taken three of Vin's fingers, there had been a slight twinge from the muscle.

Soft kisses started along his neck. "I love you," Vin whispered into his hair.

A smile lifted Ezra mouth, doubts vanishing instantly. He tilted his head enough to let Vin claim his mouth. The kiss was light, Vin's lips brushing over his, tongue barely touching before he moved away. Ezra sighed, the gold in his veins tamed for the moment. Behind him he heard the erotic sound of the cork being pulled out of the bottle, then the thick smell of mineral oil filled the small room.

Any thought of control was lost to the heady feelings that smell brought. Vin's hand left his hip and he moaned with new need. The soothing kisses continued, offering distracting counterpoint to the slow slide of oil down his ass. Vin moaned in his ear, thrusting his cock just a little, using it to spread the oil instead of his hand.

"Vin," he pleaded. "I cannot guarantee my endurance will last long at this rate of erotic stimulation."

A wicked chuckle answered him. "Sure you will, Ezra, you ain't even down to small words yet."

A slick finger slid into him, cutting off a reply of any sized words. To Ezra's relief Vin picked up the pace, thrusting only a few times before adding a second finger. Ezra was panting now, trying to find his breath, trying to think around the liquid heat in his blood. Whimpering softly, he pushed back, trying to drive the fingers deeper. But Vin pulled back, easing his fingers out while his other hand pumped Ezra's cock.

Both oily hands went to his hips and Vin whispered, "Up on the edge, Ezra."

Ezra turned so fast that he almost knocked Vin out of bed, bringing a light chuckle from the other man. "Easy there, pard, don't wanna break something we might need."

Vin moved to stand at the edge to the bed, long fingers covering his cock with the thick oil. Ezra smiled, pausing to regain a bit of control and to admire the handsome tracker once more. He came to his knees, pulled Vin to him, and took his mouth, running his tongue deep, savoring the feel of hard muscles under his hands and the taste of Vin under his lips. A slight twinge of disappointment hit him in one regard.

"There is one drawback to this activity," he remarked, watching Vin's eyes narrow in suspicion. Ezra licked along his lips. "I don't get a proper taste of you."

A satisfying hint of color creep up Vin's cheeks, followed by a shy smile. Shaking his head, he said, "Ezra, you are a flatterer."

Somehow he managed to look outraged. "Me, sir?"

His hand slid down Vin's chest, playing lightly through the dusting of hair. He pinched one nipple, heard the sharply-drawn breath and slow exhale. With one more kiss to Vin's cheek, Ezra smiled at him and turned around, bracing himself on hands and knees. He was shaking, though he couldn't have said whether it was from nervousness or anticipation.

Vin's hands soothed down his back, one reaching under to grasp his cock. His erection had faded a little but Vin pumped slowly, urging Ezra to pick up the rhythm. With a moan, Ezra thrust into the strong hand. It was only a few strokes before he was hard and hurting, shoving back against Vin's thighs.

"Vin... please...."

A warm hand glided down the crevice of his ass, and two fingers teasingly pushed in. He moaned, needing more, wanting to impale himself on the long digits. When he pushed back the fingers moved, replaced by Vin's hard shaft. Ezra froze, wanting to feel every move, concentrating on the touch of Vin's hands, on the almost ticklish brush of the long legs against his.

Ezra felt Vin shift, leaning forward. The hard cock pressed through the outer muscle. There was a slow stretching, a little pain as the hard invader slipped into him. Ezra gasped, moaned. Vin stopped moving.

"Don't stop," Ezra pleaded.

"Not stopping," Vin said tightly. "Just letting you get used to me."

A heartbeat later, Vin eased a little further in. Now the first jolt of pleasure shot up Ezra's nerves and he gave a small whimpering cry. "More," he said through clenched teeth.

He closed his eyes, bunching the sheet in his fists. The big shaft slipped deeper, filling him, flooding his blood with fire and ice. The hands on his hips tightened, signaling his lover's own fight for control.

"God, Ezra," Vin said huskily "Perfect. All tight and hot."

Vin pulled partially out, pushed in again. Ezra held his breath, almost afraid of what would happen when Vin was fully-sheathed, when the heavy cock was as far into his eager body as it could be. The shaft was easing deep again and Ezra felt Vin's heartbeat through the oil-coated passage. For a reason he didn't understand, that thought brought near tears to his eyes.

Vin pushed in once more, and this time Ezra had to bury his head against the mattress to keep from screaming in pleasure. He gasped for breath and control.

Ezra waited for the next thrust forward and shoved back, driving Vin completely into him, raking the swollen cock over the spot again. He was ready this time, clamping down on his lip, breathing hard and heavy. His move brought a groan of lust from Vin. Ezra knew Vin was holding back, doing his best not to thrust, not to hurt him, but Ezra was beyond caring, was beyond being hurt. The cock twitched inside him, and he pulled forward, pushed back.

"Vin... oh, God... Vin...."

Leaning over him, Vin kissed along his back. "Reckon those are pretty small words," he joked, though his voice was tight with control.

If his life had depended on a single syllable, Ezra could not have managed it. He sensed Vin's surrender to his need. There was a soft sigh and guttural moan, then his lover was moving, thrusting in and out with gentle ease. For a moment Ezra held still, entranced by the sensual feel of the large cock sliding so easily in and out, by the erotic sound of wet flesh moving on wet flesh, by the primitive heat that flooded his body when Vin pushed deep. The waves gathered, building with each of Vin's gentle thrusts. Each time he and Vin had made love he had thought it couldn't be better, and each time it was. Vin gave a little cry and started moving faster, driving deeper. Now, as the heat gathered like a prairie fire to center on his groin he hoped he lived through it. He was cold and hot, shaking, whimpering and moaning.

Vin's hand reached under him, tightened around his weeping cock. The world exploded into light and dark, into too much heat and too little air. He felt his muscles contract around Vin's cock, felt his seed flow over the strong hand then there was nothing for several heartbeats but darkness and trying to find enough oxygen. The next instant was almost as wonderful as the others. He heard Vin's breath catch, sensed the tightening of the tracker's muscles then felt the incredible sensation of warm fluid flooding his body. His cry echoed Vin's as a final shiver of pleasure rode through him.

All his energy was spent, and Ezra started to sag forward, too sated to care. Vin grabbed him from behind, wrapping arms around his chest, raising him up so that he was kneeling, leaning back against Vin. The cock still buried in his body slipped free as Vin kissed along his neck, hugged him close. For long minutes they stayed there, enjoying the slow spiral back to even breaths and cooling skin.

"Thank you, Ezra," Vin whispered.

Tilting his head to the side, Ezra stared up into the beautiful blue eyes that held so much love. "For what?" he asked simply.

"For being mine."

There was nothing to say to so eloquent a statement, so Ezra merely turned, pulled Vin into bed and kissed him slowly, putting all the love he felt into the single gesture. They broke apart with gentle smiles then Vin laughed, trailing an oily finger down the center of Ezra's chest.

"We'd better get cleaned up some. Morning's gonna come early for you."

"Vin," Ezra started to argue. "At this moment in time, movement is beyond my capabilities."

"Nope. I know you, Ezra." Vin shook his head. "You'll wake up in the middle of the night after rolling into the wet spot and all hell with break loose."

Staring down at the oil shining on both their bodies and the various wet spots in the bed, Ezra finally nodded. "Perhaps a modicum of cleanup would be prudent."

They spent the next few minutes washing and wiping each other and changing the sheets; the whole affair mixed with soft laughs and gentle kisses. Minutes later, after blowing out the lantern, Ezra snuggled into Vin's embrace, resting his head on the bare pale shoulder. He trailed his fingers through the darker hair on Vin's chest.

"I love you," he said softly.

"I know," Vin replied.

"That was the single most intense, incredible experience of my life," he confessed.

"You said that last time, too." Vin just laughed.

Ezra pushed himself up on his elbow, looked down into smiling blue eyes. "And it was. As will the next time also met that apt description. And all the preceding times."

"Lot more ways to do it too," Vin said with a smile. "Go to sleep, Ezra."

Snuggling down into Vin's arms, Ezra tried to shut his eyes. "Vin?"

There was amusement in Vin's voice when he answered. "Yeah?"

"Do you believe we'll be able to ascertain the offender responsible for informing Gaines of our movements?"

Silence filled the room for a minute, then Vin's shoulder shifted under Ezra's cheek. "Pretty big order. Lots of new folks in the area."

"Yes," Ezra agreed thoughtfully. "And in my estimation she has been getting information for at least four months."

He yawned, eyes drifting shut. The last thing he heard was Vin say, "If anyone can dig it out, it's us."

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