The saloon was busy as usual on a Saturday night; all the boys had received their pay or were finished with the farm work for the weekend and everyone was in to relax, get drunk and have a good time. Also as was normal for the evenings Ezra was holding court at the central table, offering games of chance and luck to anyone foolish enough to part with their money. While most of the locals knew well enough to stay away from the gambler, there were always some out-of-towners or a few boys who just wouldn't admit defeat. Ezra welcomed them all, and gracefully accepted their money.
Most of the other Seven were also present, with the exception of Chris. Vin, Josiah, Nathan and JD sat at a table by themselves and played their own hand of cards where chance might actually win over skill. Buck was busy plying his renowned skills on Inez, which also provided the rest of the boys with some entertainment.
"Now when do ya 'spose Buck is gonna catch on that that woman just don't want him?" Nathan inquired, shaking his head at the scoundrel's persistence.
"Well, you know Buck. He just plain don't believe that a woman can resist his 'animal'maggotism." Piped in JD, scowling at his cards in frustration. Jeez, can't even win a hand when Ezra isn't here!
Vin snorted and shook his head, remembering a very different Buck, but one who was just as persistent. He glanced over at Ezra and noticed that the gambler seemed to be watching Buck's antics with some interest. Vin was still reeling from his second night of sexual instruction. No one had ever brought him such intense release before. Both Buck and Ezra had been gentle but passionate and thorough and neither laughed at his lack of experience. While he knew some of Buck's sexual history (who didn't?), Ezra had been a mystery, but apparently an accomplished mystery. While Buck oozed raw sexuality, the more polished gambler had a refined quality to him even in the throes of passion. After Vin had satisfied him the first time, Ezra and Buck had gotten together with each other and Vin, though embarrassed to be there, had watched with interest and learned a few more things. Now all he needed was for the man he wanted to decide he wanted Vin in return. But Chris wasn't even in town at the moment, though he was expected back sometime today. Vin only hoped that Buck would keep his distance once Chris returned. So far he hadn't seen him today, and though he was about yesterday, Buck hadn't really pestered Vin too much—just mostly checked to see if Vin was all right -then he teased Ezra a bit, before heading off with his new girl. Vin honestly didn't know where the man got the energy.+ + + + + + +
Ezra's skill was such that he managed to keep his winnings at an acceptable level, while being a bit distracted by the tall ladies'man. It's amazing that he doesn't knock the ladies off their feet with the wild gesturing he does. He sure was much more under control when he was...when he was with Vin and myself. He thought a little further on the events of that night. Though he was initially attracted to Vin--with Buck--well, he always figured that the ladies'man would be skilled in bed, but hadn't expected to enjoy him so much. If nothing else, Buck was fun. He loved life, love and the pursuit of happiness, as far as Ezra could tell, and he apparently didn't mind trying new things. And Ezra was pretty sure that Buck wouldn't want a serious commitment from him; figured he'd understand that Ezra was only interested in some companionship and a little fun and games on the side. Yeah, he'd have to pass on Vin--the boy obviously wanted a relationship with Chris and Ez figured that the ultra serious gunfighter would want the same thing, if he returned Vin's feelings.
Now Buck had mentioned that he might not be averse to a little more...exotic pleasure. I wonder just how far Buck would be willing to pursue this? The first thing will to be to find a way to see if he is still willing. Ezra snorted at that thought When wasn't Buck willing? But how to gain some control over the expert sensualist? Ezra's dimples showed as a plan came to him. Of course! So simple really. Ezra spared one final glance at Buck and then turned his attentions back to the men at his table--much to their misfortune.
Buck was enjoying his time trying to interest the fiery Latin woman in a little romance with him. He knew the other men figured that he was just wasting his time and making a fool out of himself--but Buck figured that she was at least a little bit interested in him. And that fact kept him coming back for more--after all--if you had to work for something, you usually appreciated it all the more when you finally got it. Finally Inez was dragged away to tend to her customers, and Buck retired to the group's table. Vin, Josiah, JD and Nathan were all there, while Ezra was busy fleecing customers at a separate table. Buck sat down beside Vin, and noticed that the tracker was looking a little tense. Of course it wasn't noticeable to anyone who didn't know him well, and Buck could easily guess the reason: Chris was due back this evening and he suspected that Vin was going to try and find out how the gunman felt about him.
Buck was trying not to pressure Vin anymore than necessary. He'd taught him what he could and knew that the tracker wouldn't let him make love to him again--anything more would upset him, and while he'd permitted the 'lessons', now Vin only wanted to be with Chris. Buck sure hoped the boy wouldn't be disappointed. He figured it was a great thing for both of them. Now they just had to wait to see what Chris would do. If Chris didn't want Vin, Buck was more than willing to help Vin, but he had a feeling that the proud tracker would rather leave than settle for someone he didn't really want. Buck turned his thoughts to his second partner from the other evening.
Now Ezra had been a revelation. Buck thought maybe the man might have been with another male before, but he was a little surprised that he'd decided to participate in what some might call an 'orgy'. Yes, Ezra had been surprising, and Buck hadn't missed the spark of interest that had flickered through those clear green eyes--when he mentioned about not minding a little pain now and then. Ez might be much more interesting than he had previously considered; maybe he'd be willing to get together for a little bit of fun, without Vin around. Buck was pretty sure that it was Vin's presence that had attracted Ez in the first place, but he really couldn't see the two of them together for long. Now Ez, yeah, Ezra wouldn't likely want anything to tie him down and he was very curious to see just how experienced the gambler might be. Standish seemed to be fairly adventurous and Buck thought he would like to check out just how far Ezra was willing to go and just how far he could be pushed before he lost some of that 'civilised'charm. Buck wanted to see what kind of man lurked beneath that polished exterior. Yeah, I'll have to check that out, just as soon as I oversee what happens when Chris returns to town.
Buck had tried to drop a few hints to see how the gunfighter felt about Vin. As usual, Chris wasn't very forthcoming, but Buck had seen the anger and tightening of Chris'jaw when Buck mentioned how attractive the tracker was. Yep, I think ol'Chris'just fighting the inevitable. Man should just give in and make everyone happy. Buck grinned to himself and glanced up as a presence invaded the saloon.+ + + + + + +
Chris finally came back into town after a couple of days away. He finally realised that his feelings for Vin were not fraternal, but sexual. He had been with a man or two before, while he was in the Calvary--but it was just a casual relieving of nervous tension while they were younger and in a stressful situation. But he knew that this was much different; this had little to do with relief and everything to do with desire. Chris wanted Vin--with a hunger that surprised him. Maybe even scared him, and not much scared Chris anymore. But losing the people he loved—friends—that scared him. He' d do anything he could to prevent that from happening.
Chris was terrified that Vin wouldn't feel the same way, but he knew he had to find out. Don't know what I will do if Vin isn't interested, but I won't do anything to damage our friendship, if I can avoid it. I won't pursue Vin if he ain't interested. Now, if he was interested, Chris intended to claim the younger man and never let him go. If it meant leaving the town and his duties and other friends, he felt he would do that too, though he hoped it wouldn't come to that. Luckily for him, most folks avoided getting involved in his personal business—out of plain fear, and while Vin was friendlier, he was known as a loner and went his own way without anyone questioning him much. So Chris thought, besides the other five and likely Mary, no one would notice them much. Mary. Now there was going to be a really touchy situation, and he wasn't looking forward to dealing with it. But first he had to find out if there was actually anything to be concerned about. Vin just has to return my feelings. He knew that the younger man liked and respected him, but did it go deeper than that for Vin? And how could he find out without alienating his friend?
After wandering around town, Chris finally found Vin in the saloon with the others. Chris ordered a drink and engaged in some small talk, which in his case was very small indeed. Mostly catching up on anything that had happened while he was gone. He noticed that Buck was still near Vin and paying attention, though not quite as intently as before, which was good, because Chris didn't know how much more he could stand. He didn't want anyone near Vin but himself, especially not before he had a chance to find out if Vin was attracted. He began to frown to himself. How the Hell am I going to do this without offending Vin? Chris glanced up into the large blue eyes regarding him with a strange emotion in their sparkling depths. Something was wrong! Either Vin's figured out what I'm feeling or maybe Vin was feeling something for Buck. Oh God!
Chris didn't think he could stand the suspense much longer. He stared straight at Vin, and tilted his head toward the door in question. Vin blinked and then gave a return nod. Yes, he understood. Satisfied that Vin would accompany him when he left, Chris looked back to his drink, wishing it could give him more than a burning trail to his stomach. Hell, my gut is already churning! Maybe I shouldn't force this now—maybe I don't really need to know what Vin's thoughts were—maybe... But no, Chris was a man who faced life and danger straight on, and this would be handled the same way. He tossed back the rest of his shot, and nodded to the rest of the group. "Later, boys." And headed outside without waiting to see if Vin was following him—because he knew he would be.
Vin gulped back the rest of his beer, swallowing past a sudden constriction in his throat and a distinct uneasiness in his gut. He wasn't sure, but he figured that he had an idea of what Chris wanted to talk to him about. Somehow the gunfighter had seen what was in Vin's heart. Chris knew Vin wanted him, and while the tracker had waited so long for Chris to notice—now he was terrified. What if Chris hates me for this? How will I survive losing not only a potential lover, but also my soul brother? He jumped when he felt a hand touch his arm.
Buck had seen the exchange between the two men only because he was specifically looking for it. Otherwise he would have noticed nothing out of the ordinary in Larabee's abrupt departure. Some days Chris just wasn't the friendliest of men. The answering tenseness in Tanner's face wasn't really discernible to anyone who didn't know him well, but Buck could see that the tracker was scared. Not something you saw very often - Vin just didn't scare easily, but in this case Buck could sympathise with him. Vin had a lot riding on this meeting with Chris - his heart, his friendship—Hell, maybe his very soul. Buck looked into shuttered eyes.
"Vin, I wish you luck." It was simple—but heartfelt, and Vin knew that. He nodded in acknowledgement and stood to leave.
"Thanks, Buck." His normal rasp was so rough; his words were almost indistinguishable. Then Vin turned to meet his fate. He walked out to the boardwalk and spotted Chris waiting down near the livery. Vin had a brief terrifying vision of Chris taking him out for a ride and shooting him. He blinked a couple of times—trying to banish that thought from his mind, before heading toward the waiting man.+ + + + + + +
After Vin left, Buck glanced around and noticed Ezra watching him, while playing cards with the last of his victims. Ezra nodded minutely to the scoundrel. Buck winked back and got up to get a beer. Then he returned to the table and played a couple of hands of poker with the remaining three men. He was half waiting to see if either Chris or Vin would return--but not really expecting it. If things went well--the boys would not likely be headed back to the saloon, and if they didn't go well--he suspected that neither man would be in the mood for questions or company. While he mulled this over, he kept glancing over to see what Ezra was doing. The con man was usually glancing back his way, with an enigmatic smile on his face. Now I just wonder what's got him smiling like that? Man looks like he's found a way to snare himself something worthwhile, with just a bit of cunning. Buck turned his attention back to his own card game, and seemed to be holding his own--while Nathan and Josiah took turns winning and JD just couldn't seem to convince Lady Luck to visit him at all tonight.
"Well, I'm out! Can't seem to win nothing tonight." JD threw his cards down in disgust.
"A man can be lucky in love--unlucky in cards, so they say. Now we all know that you have the undivided attentions of the lovely Miss Casey Wells. Perhaps you need to be satisfied with her affections, and not the winnings from gambling." Josiah's deep rumble did nothing to mollify JD's wounded pride or his thin pocket book.
"'Course some of us are lucky in both and that's a true blessing." needled Buck.
"I'm not so sure you can call what you have with all those ladies: 'love' Buck. Seems to me we're just talking about good times there, and that just ain't the same thing." Nathan interjected, not wanting to add to JD's misery.
"Yeah, Nathan's right Buck. You don't love all those women, or at least they aren't all in love with you."
JD felt somewhat vindicated. It wasn't like he was the only one who didn't have everything he wanted. "Look at Inez--she sure don't love you. Heck, she don't hardly even want to talk to you."
Buck cuffed the bowler hat off JD's head. "Hush now, me and Inez--we're just coming to an understanding is all. She just don't want to appear 'easy'in front of all these men." Buck said confidently. JD just gave him a disbelieving look, while Josiah and Nathan nodded at each other knowingly. Buck wasn't ever going to admit to defeat--where it came to the lovely Senorita Recillos.
Ezra finally sent the last of the 'would-be gamblers' on his way, a little poorer and maybe wiser. He was just putting his deck of cards away, when Buck dropped into the chair across from him. Ezra looked up to see the scoundrel's familiar smile. "Mr. Wilmington." He acknowledged.
"Now Ezra, after the other night, I think we should at least be on a first name basis." Buck's eyes smiled in genuine good humour.
"Of course, please forgive my poor manners...Buck. Now have you joined me for my scintillating company or did you perchance wish to partake in a game." Ezra's voice was light and steady - giving nothing away of the fluttering in his stomach. Those damned knowing eyes!
"Well, ya know Ezra, it could just be for both reasons. What kinda stakes you thinking on?" Buck was pretty darn sure that the gambler wasn't planning on becoming rich from this particular game.
"I rather thought we could dispense with the usual pecuniary gratification and play for somewhat more esoteric spoils--if you are of a mind to entertain a different challenge?" Ezra kept his hands smoothly shuffling and his face immobile. Never let your opponent see any signs of weakness or nervousness.
Buck gave him a very predatory smile in return. "Oh, I'm willing to entertain all sorts of things, Ezra. What are you proposing we play for instead?" If Ez ain't playing for money, then it must be something else mighty important to him. Now I'd have to guess by the way he's been watching me all evening, that ol'Buck is gonna get lucky even if I lose the game.
Ezra watched Buck's smile widen in anticipation and thought maybe his own face was showing things that it shouldn't. However, he pushed that thought aside to concentrate on the stakes. "Mr...Buck, you did mention the other night, that you occasionally enjoyed some rather... atypical pleasures." Ezra paused briefly to take a quick breath and hope that the heat he felt radiating from his face was not visible. "So, I propose that the winner gets to chose the pleasures he wishes to indulge in tonight, with the loser. Of course, this precludes any lasting injury."
Buck nodded agreeably, "Sounds interesting, and just to add a little more spice, how 'bout the loser gets to chose where this encounter takes place?" He paused, "I'm dying to hear ya screaming out in ecstasy Ezra."
Now Ezra knew that his face was burning. He took a quick look at his opponent. Buck was still smiling, but the gambler was sure that he had something planned. However, he refused to lose face. "Agreed. Hedging our bets, are we Buck?" An eyebrow rose in inquiry.
"Let's just say that I'm expecting to have a real, good time - win or lose." The dark moustache curved upwards again. Buck moved in closer and whispered, "I've got a hankering for that fancy, white flesh of yours."
Ezra flushed and sputtered for a moment before he managed to regain his composure. A glance around the room assured him that no one else had noticed his brief slip, and Buck's larger form was blocking most of their view anyway. Standish took a quick sip of his liquor, giving himself time to settle and then he began to deal the cards with a flourish.
The game went on for some time. Buck wasn't a bad poker player and Ezra was still a bit rattled. The scoundrel's anticipatory looks weren't helping either. However, Ezra had certainly faced more daunting opponents with higher stakes, so eventually his skills prevailed.
"Well, Mr. Wilmington, I do believe that the game is mine." He swallowed the last of his brandy, "I do trust that you are prepared to uphold your part of our bargain?"
"Oh, you'd better believe it Ezra. Ol'Buck never has any trouble holding up his end of a bargain. Specially not one like this!"
The gleam in those dark, blue eyes is positively gloating. "Well, while I don't believe that there is any reason to gloat--especially since you did not come out on the winning end of our little wager--I suppose that there is no need to delay the festivities any longer." Ezra rose gracefully from the table, as did Buck. The long, lanky gunfighter hunched down slightly to hear Ezra's near whisper. "If you will excuse me for a moment, I need to procure a few items from my lodgings. I hope you..."
"Whoo-ee Ezra! You gonna get some of them sex toys for us to play with? Or maybe get yourself all rigged out in some finery? You don't need more clothes Ezra, they ain't likely gonna be on you very long anyway." Buck was practically chortling, knowing just how much his suggestions would fluster the refined gambler.
"Not very likely. Now keep your voice down, I would prefer not to have everyone in this establishment know about our intended liaison! I am merely fetching a few items to assist with my fantasy. If you will recall, it is I who won this?"
"Sure, no problem Ez. I'll just wait for you outside, while I try to decide where we're gonna do this 'lee-ay-son' thing.". He gave the gambler a helping slap on the arm and ambled towards the door.
Ezra stood there blinking in surprise. Where we're going to liase? Oh, good Lord, I'd forgotten that particular stipulation. I don't suppose the man would consider something as eminently sensible as a feather bed? Ezra shook his head, realising that he had to go through with this. Not that he didn't want to be with Buck, but he was just a little bit concerned about the man's plans.+ + + + + + +
Chris'stern face broke into a huge smile. It lit up his whole face, even brightening the large green eyes. Vin returned his feelings! There was no way he could mistake the raw emotion in the younger man's face...Vin wanted him too. He watched an answering smile cross Vin's face--glowing with happiness, the blue eyes twinkling and sparkling
Chris finally broke the spell and pulled Vin into his arms, almost crushing him. Chris could feel Vin's heartbeat thudding against his own, could feel his arms wrapped tightly around his back. He lowered his head and crushed the lush mouth with his own. Vin's lips were as soft as they looked and his mouth, when Chris forced it open, was sweet and tasted of the beer he had been drinking earlier.
Vin surrendered to him with a moan and returned the assault on Chris'mouth. The sharpshooter had waited so long for this--he almost couldn't believe that it was really happening. But the hard bulge pressing against his own groin assured him that Chris was indeed interested. He felt his own flesh stir as Chris pressed against him harder. Chris slid his hands under Vin's coat, gripping his narrow waist and pulling him to his chest, trying to climb inside the young man. He tasted so sweet. When Vin caressed his back and ass in return and arched against Chris'lean form, Chris slid his hands lower and cupped Vin's firm butt. He squeezed both cheeks--feeling Vin grunt into his mouth.
Chris moved one hand back up to grip Vin's long curls and continued to ravage Vin's mouth. The other hand continued to caress Vin's tight ass, sliding down and under, along the back seam of his pants. Chris thrust his hips against him, feeling the hardness of Vin. God he had to have him--now. Chris pulled back and looked into glazed blue eyes.
Vin was panting, trying to catch his breath, and he still kept a tight grip on Chris'back. Vin was shaking, trying so hard not to come right then and there. "Please...need you right now Chris," he pleaded.
Chris looked wildly around, looking for a place they could get together, nearby. Vin's wagon was close, but out in the open; not very sound proof and he wanted privacy and no interruptions. He finally dragged Vin up to his room. The tracker was stumbling along, trying to keep up with the determined gunslinger. Once in the room, Chris locked the door and put a chair against it as further insurance. Vin looked a little surprised and Chris grabbed him around the waist and yanked him tightly to him. Vin slid his arms about him again and tilted his head up for another kiss.
Chris smiled "anxious ain't we?", and granted Vin's wish. While he kissed him, Chris started to yank Vin's clothing off, wanting to touch that smooth skin--he just knew it would be soft and warm. He couldn't resist petting his ass again--so perfectly tight. Are you a virgin Vin? Has anyone touched you in your secret places? Not that it really mattered to Chris, once he claimed Vin; the tracker would be his, no matter who might have had him before. He reached down between them to stroke the swelling bulge in Vin's pants, and smiled at the gasp of pleasure Vin gave. He released him and slid one of his legs between Vin's and pulled him tight as he thrust his groin against Vin's hip--pulling Vin against his own hip--trying to arouse the tracker further. Vin was whimpering and squirming, pleading with him to give him release. Chris finally took pity and pushed him away a bit to finish stripping Vin's clothes off. Vin tried to do the same with Chris, but he pushed Vin's hands away and yanked off his own clothes, nearly injuring himself trying to hurry out of the tight pants. Damn! But he wanted this man!
Vin stood stock still, his eyes roving over Chris'lean hard body. It's perfect! Every long muscle, straining with tension, his blond hair in wild disarray, and his swollen cock--red and leaking, rose between his legs. Vin reached to touch it--just to prove to himself that it was real. Chris guided his hand away. "Oh, no! Touch that and I'll explode right now. I want to be inside you when that happens." His words sent a hot flush through Vin's body and he felt himself start to lose control right there. Chris could see the look that passed over his face and the sudden twitch of Vin's cock, and moved quickly to stop his impending release. He grabbed Vin's shaft tightly around the base and squeezed sharply until the sudden urge passed. Vin was gasping for breath, trying to regain some discipline over himself. He grasped onto Chris'arm, a little embarrassed feeling so out of control like that in front of Chris, but the gunfighter only seemed amused. "Ok now?" Vin nodded and Chris pulled him over toward the bed. Chris drew him close and hugged him tightly. "Want you so much Vin."
Vin nodded and murmured "I want you too." Chris pulled him down to the bed.
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