Vin kept his gun site focused on the bank, checking the windows he could see. Waiting with the natural in born patience of a hunter for an opening he could use. He took a deep breath, and let it out very slowly. He took another breath.

Control. It's all about control. He figured if it worked for Ezra, it might work just as well for him. And he needed to make sure his head was clear. Otherwise he wouldn't be able to seize the opportunity when it came.

His emotions had run wild when he realized that the earlier gunshot had come from the bank. Vin had no doubts that Ezra was inside. Somehow he knew there was just no way his lover could not be involved. If there was trouble brewing it just seemed to naturally find Ezra.

For a moment his fear had left him paralyzed. All he could think was that Ezra was dead. That thought had run through his head over and over like a litany of doom.

When Chris broke through, Vin's next thought was that if Ezra was dead, he was sure as hell going to be in a position to make them regret the day they'd been born. Rage had nearly blinded him, but he ruthlessly controlled it. If he lost his head, he couldn't make them pay. And they were definitely going to pay if Ezra was not okay.

Vin had stopped by his wagon long enough to retrieve the rifle he'd taken from the assassin months ago. It was a beautiful weapon, ideally suited to the task at hand. He cradled it, feeling the weight and balance of it.

From his vantage point, Vin had seen Buck coming from the livery. He'd seen Chris wave him to the side. When the door of the bank opened to let Nathan announce the children were to be released, Vin had focused on trying to see beyond him. He absently noted that the healer looked to be okay. As long as he was standing, Vin wasn't too worried.

He was looking for a flash of red. Ezra had been wearing his favorite jacket that morning. Vin didn't know if he should be relieved or frustrated that he couldn't spot his lover through the narrow band of the open door. As each child slipped out, Vin continued to scan the room beyond.

There. YES!! He could just catch a glimpse of Ezra. The relief he felt made him close his eyes for just a moment. He sucked in a breath so hard it was almost a sob.

Tanner, hold yourself together. He ain't outta danger yet. Vin shook slightly with the effort to control himself. He took a deep breath, and smiled tightly when he realized it worked. Have ta tell Ez.

He refocused his attention on the bank. The door had closed without ever giving him a clear shot at any one of the robbers. Vin wished fervently that he could see through the shades. He pursed his lips, wondering what Chris was going to do.

Damn shame it ain't Ez out here. We caught six guys with some rope, a few well tossed rocks, and three sticks o' dynamite. I'm sure he could come up with somethin' that would work for this situation. Vin frowned. Bet he is thinkin' of a way ta get outta there. Need to stay sharp so I can play my part.

Vin studied the bank again, paying special attention to angles. With the shades drawn there was no way to see through the front windows. Only way out is through the front. Vin shook his head. But that don't mean the only shot is from the front.

Vin checked his position, and shifted so that he could see the west side of the bank. The shot out window might just give him a better view. He nodded his head, satisfied that he had as clean a field of fire was he was likely to get. He had seen Buck moving toward the east side, so he figured that the ladies man would have that position covered. Chris, Josiah and JD still had the front. There was no way anyone could leave the bank without making themselves a target.

With a sigh, Vin settled in to wait. He would be ready when Ezra made his move. Just because his lover appeared to be okay, didn't mean Vin wasn't prepared to vent the wrath of God on the ones who'd threatened him.

*******

After the children had left, Clem had ordered Ezra, Nathan, Lovitt and Neville to stand together, backs to the counter, facing the front. It made it easier for them to be watched, and freed up Cal, and Jack to continue keeping an eye out front. Nathan noted that Clem kept a watchful eye on Otis as well.

Nathan warily watched Otis' every move. The man had begun pacing ever since the children had been allowed to leave. It reminded Nathan of a caged tiger he'd seen once. Otis' wild eyes just added to the overall impression because they darted around the room with each pass he made. The shotgun he regularly pointed at them kept any of the hostages from relaxing. Man is just plain crazy. Hope that Clem can control `im.

Nathan looked toward Ezra. The enigmatic conman had already saved his life once today. He hadn't expected that, but he was grateful. He was also very relieved that the man had managed to talk Clem into letting the children go. The last thing he wanted was for one of them to get hurt. Thought he'd do something stupid and piss the man off. Should a known Ezra had a plan. Sure hope he's got a plan ta get us out o' here.

Ezra cast a glance toward him. His expression carefully neutral, green eyes calm. Not for the first time did Nathan wonder how the man could seem so unfazed by every bizarre or dangerous situation they'd somehow found themselves in over the past year. Hell, the man even managed to look at home in a dress for God's sake.

Ezra had remained quiet for the past few minutes. He didn't offer any more suggestions, or advice to the robbers. Nathan got the distinct impression he was just biding his time, looking for an opening. Sure hope he finds one soon. Nathan was tired of watching Otis pace.

"Otis stop doin' that." Clem ordered tersely from his position near the side window. "It's getting on my nerves."

Otis paused in mid stride and then turned hostile eyes on Clem. "You shouldn't a let them kids go, Clem. They never woulda rushed us with them here. We was safe with them kids in here."

Clem frowned. "An' jus' how did ya think we were gonna get outta here?"

"I don't know!" Otis snarled. "But it don't look like you got any ideas neither."

"Well I wouldn't need any ideas if you hadn't fired that damn shotgun. Now would I?" Clem hissed back in outrage. "But, no, you had to go an' let everyone in town know we was in here."

"It weren't my fault!" Otis waved his shotgun toward Nathan. "Was that uppity nigger."

Nathan frowned. That was the second time Otis had called him that. He couldn't understand the animosity. Otis didn't speak like someone from the south. If Nathan had to hazard a guess, he would have said the man hailed from somewhere in the mid-west. It was unlikely the man had ever owned slaves.

Otis growled, and made a threatening move toward the healer. Nathan was stunned when Ezra stepped forward and placed himself between Nathan and Otis. "Venting your anger and frustration on this man will not solve your problem."

Otis hesitated for a second, eyeing the gambler. "Well, Mister Fancy Pants, it might not solve the problem, but it sure as hell will make me feel better to put `im in his place."

Ezra raised an eyebrow. "And just what is his place?"

Otis glared at Ezra. "Where ever I tell him it is." Otis shoved the shotgun into Ezra's chest. Ezra didn't even blink. He just calmly raised a hand and pushed the barrel away.

"You will be telling him nothing." Ezra's voice was soft, but there was no mistaking the deadly undertone.

Nathan tensed. Don't push this man, Ezra. Don't push this man. Neville, and Lovitt moved ever so slightly away. Nathan knew they were expecting trouble, and were going to do their best to avoid it. He wondered if they were smarter than he was.

Surprisingly, Otis stepped back. "He belong to you? That why you defending him?"

Ezra smiled tightly. "A war was fought that established rather firmly one man can not own another."

Otis cackled. "That war don't mean a thing. Colored folk ain't any better than horses or cows. Deserve ta be owned."

Nathan was furious. Don't mean a thing!! People died by the thousands and he thinks it don't mean a thing! Deserve to be owned! You rotten bastard.

"I am a free man." Nathan hissed. He would have lunged for Otis but a firm grip on his arm kept him where he was. Glancing down, he was surprised to find Ezra's hand holding him in place. He hadn't even noticed when Ezra grabbed him. The subtle shake of Ezra's head was enough to calm him somewhat. Otis, still giggling, went back to pacing.

Ezra studied Nathan for a moment. When he spoke, Ezra's voice was a soft whisper, just loud enough for Nathan to hear, but not loud enough to carry any further. "Mr. Jackson, I consider you an intelligent man. Surely, you were aware before this moment that not all Whites from the North view Negros with esteem or respect. Not all the boys who fought for the South were from the South."

Ezra's green eyes were hard as ice, uncompromising and direct. "Loosing your temper here will serve no purpose but to get you killed. And possibly Mr. Neville and Mr. Lovitt right along with you."

As much as it galled Nathan to be taken to task like a small child, he had to admit Ezra was right. Nathan nodded. "It won't happen again."

"See that it doesn't."

The last was no louder than the rest, but the order was unmistakable. Nathan stiffened, angry that Ezra thought he could order him around. He glared at Ezra, but the southerner didn't even bat an eye. Under that steady gaze, Nathan felt his anger dissipate.

He realized with a start that if Chris had said the same thing he wouldn't have been even half as offended. He was honest enough with himself to admit that he didn't have any right to be angry with Ezra when just a few minutes ago he was hoping Ezra was working on a plan to get them out of here. If I expect him ta have the answer, guess I shouldn't be too upset when the man takes charge.

Cal and Jack had stayed by the doors, watching the street, but casting fleeting looks over their shoulders. Clem had watched the whole by play silently. He looked at Ezra, and Ezra returned the look with equal measure. Ezra's eyes flicked toward Otis and then returned to Clem. He stepped forward slightly, and Clem moved away from the window closer to Ezra.

"He is a liability." Ezra's voice was quiet, but still loud enough to carry. Otis didn't seem to notice that he was being talked about. Nathan kept an eye on him just in case.

Clem shrugged. "I know." The large man sighed. "Family."

"Ah." Ezra pursed his lips, his expression turning sympathetic. "I am increasingly glad I have so little."

Clem's lips turned up in a derisive expression. He looked at Otis. "I can see where ya might." Clem shrugged. "My uncle asked me ta look after him. Weren't no one else."

"This doesn't have to end badly." Ezra offered.

Clem smirked. "Jus' turn ourselves in, that it?"

Ezra raised one shoulder. "It was worth suggesting."

Nathan wasn't surprised when Clem shook his head no. "Bad idea. Ain't goin' ta prison, fancy pants."

"Prison is preferable to death." Ezra stated reasonably.

Nathan wasn't sure what Ezra was trying to do. Doubt he'll be able ta talk them into a peaceful solution. But then I knowin' Ezra, he has ta try.

Ezra was never one to jump into a fight without looking for another alternative. As much as his fancy speeches and large vocabulary annoyed Nathan, he had to admit that Ezra's ability with words had worked out in his favor more than once. Nathan silently wished him luck. Would be nice to get out o' here without any bloodshed.

Nathan went on alert when Otis stopped pacing. Otis moved closer to Clem and Ezra. He sneered at Ezra. "Don't you be tryin' ta talk Clem inta no more dumb ideas. Heard enough outta you."

"It was not stupid to release the children."

It hadn't sounded like an inflammatory remark, but Otis lashed out with surprising speed. He used the stock of his shotgun to hit Ezra hard in the solar plexus. Ezra gasped, and bent over in response to the force of the blow. Otis brought the barrel down against Ezra's unprotected back, driving him to his knees. He reached out with one hand to grab Ezra's by the throat and jerked his head so that he was looking up.

"It was a DUMB idea!" Otis roared in his face. "I know dumb when I see it, ya over dressed popinjay."

Nathan started to move forward, intent on saving Ezra from more abuse. He'd been caught off guard when Otis lashed out. He hadn't expected him to do more than just yell. Nathan hesitated when Clem pointed his gun at him.

"Stay right where ya are, mister."

Ezra raised both hands in an effort to break Otis' grip. Otis shook Ezra the way a terrier shakes a rat in its teeth, his long fingers tightening their grip on Ezra's throat. The only noticeable affect of Ezra's attempt to break free was a further tightening of Otis' grip.

"I ain't stupid. But Clem don't listen ta me. He has to listen ta the likes o' you. Never listens ta me!"

Nathan could see Ezra's lips starting to turn blue. He moved forward again, unwilling to let Ezra die at Otis' hands despite the gun still trained on him. Amazingly, he wasn't the only one. Clem had grabbed Otis by the arm, and was trying to break his grip.

"Otis, let go! Let him go!" Clem shouted, jerking on his cousin with no success.

Nathan saw Ezra make a move with his right hand, releasing the hidden derringer. He brought the gun up, placed the barrel against Otis' chest and fired twice. The shocked look on Otis' face might have been comical if not for the deadly nature of their situation. As it was Nathan was just relieved when the man released Ezra and stumbled back falling to his knees slowly like a felled tree.

Ezra sucked in harsh breath, coughing as he did so, leaning forward so that he rested his weight on his hands and knees. Nathan was on his knees beside him. "Easy, Ezra. Jus' take it easy. Don't try to breath too deeply. Shallow breaths. That's it." Nathan rubbed small circles on Ezra's back trying to help the smaller man catch his breath. Dark bruises in the shape of fingers were already beginning to appear on his neck.

Clem was cradling his cousin. "Otis?...Otis...talk to me you crazy son of a bitch." Otis lay in Clem's arms gasping. Listening to him, Nathan didn't hold out much hope for his survival. Two shots, point blank range...ain't too likely a man can live through that. He didn't know if the sound of those shots carried beyond the room or not. Probably not. That little gun don't make much noise.

Ezra coughed raggedly. He looked toward Otis and Clem and then toward Nathan. Nathan was surprised to see a trace of regret in his expression. "You didn't have a choice, Ez."

Ezra shook his head. "Always a choice...Mr. Jackson." Ezra's voice was hoarse. Nathan knew it had to hurt him to speak at all. "Was...last resort." Ezra sucked in another breath. "Didn't want...to kill him."

Nathan patted his back. "Well, I'm glad you chose to live. Was him or you, Ez, and I'd pick you any day."

Ezra raised an eyebrow at that. Nathan moved to help Ezra get to his feet, but stopped when he heard the cocking of a gun. He looked toward Clem, and realized the man had released Otis. Clem had gotten to his feet.

Clem's face was set. "You shouldn't a done that."

Ezra gently laid his derringer on the floor. Nathan was amazed that the man hadn't dropped the weapon despite his struggle to just breathe. Ezra held up both hands, palms out, still on his knees.

"Didn't mean....for him...to die." Ezra's voice sounded like metal wheels on gravel. It made Nathan wince to hear him.

"You had that pop gun on you the whole time?"

Ezra nodded. Clem scowled. He looked toward where Otis lay. "He wasn't right in the head. Never was. Even when he was little. I was s'posed to look out for him. Was my job to take care of him."

Clem shifted. He moved so that he was squarely facing Ezra and Nathan, a move that incidentally positioned him so that he was framed by the shot out window. He raised his gun.

"Weren't right what you did. You gotta pay for that."

Nathan moved to push Ezra out of the way, not wanting to see his friend hurt. His action proved to be unnecessary. A loud crack from a high-powered rifle echoed sharply for a moment. A shot, Nathan knew only Vin Tanner could have made, hit Clem in the chest. The force of it spun the large man around and dropped him like a marionette with its strings cut.

Nathan dove for the shotgun Otis had dropped when Ezra shot him. He snatched it up and pointed it toward the door where Cal and Jack were still standing. Ezra had pulled his Colt Remington from its shoulder holster. Now this is much better.

*******

Vin kept a careful watch on the bank. He pictured the lay out in his head, and tried to envision the position of the men inside. Vin knew there was at least on man stationed near the door. The shade still blocked most of the window, but it was pulled enough to one side to suggest a man was there watching the street. Besides it made sense that someone was keeping an eye on Josiah, JD and Chris.

From his vantage point, Vin could see the large man watching out the side window. All Vin saw was the side of his face, but enough to know for certain where he was. Vin would also catch glimpses of another. He'd lose sight of a tall, thin man at regular intervals, which let Vin know the man was pacing. That's three.

Chris had let him know earlier, via hand signals, that there were four men. Vin wasn't sure where the fourth man was. That worried him. He was fairly certain that the hostages must be lined up along the counter. He couldn't be sure, but it made sense that would be where they would be. The fourth man could be watching them.

He noticed a break in the pacer's pattern. Hmmm...man either stopped or moved away. Now where did he go? Vin kept a sharp eye out for the missing man. Mentally he counted off the seconds. He listened for any sound or movement that might give him a clue. Vin breathed easier when he saw him resume pacing.

A flash of red immediately got his attention. Ezra! Thank God.

The big man near the window had stepped away and headed for where Vin could just make out Ezra. Vin found it reassuring that his lover still looked to be all right. He was talking, and if Vin had to guess he was working on trying to get the big man to let them go. Vin hoped he'd be able to work his magic a second time in one day.

Despite his desire to stay focused on Ezra, Vin forced himself to keep his gun sight on the large man. The conversation seemed amiable. Vin smiled thinking he'd just used one of Ezra's words.

The thin man approached. Vin couldn't make out much of what happened next, but cursed when he lost sight of Ezra. He'd seen the thin man raise his shotgun and swing it toward where he'd last seen Ezra. He hadn't fired it, but Vin knew that gun could make one hell of a club.

Vin frantically looked for a clear shot, but wasn't willing to risk it until he knew for sure where Ezra was. The big man had his gun pointed toward where Vin suspected the hostages were, evidently keeping one or more of them in place. Then he seemed to be wrestling with the thin man.

Vin could just make out the sound of Ezra's derringer. He'd heard it enough over the past year that the sound, no matter how muffled, was unmistakable. He was heartened by the sound knowing it meant Ezra was still in the game.

The thin man fell back, and his body language was enough to tell Vin he'd been shot. A man didn't end up looking like he'd suddenly lost complete use of his limbs for any other reason. Most likely it was Ez's little pop gun that got him. Good.

Vin kept a sharp eye out for Ezra. He hadn't heard any more shots, but that didn't mean Ezra was okay. Don't mean he's hurt, either. That little gun ain't got but two bullets. Vin was still worried. He knew Ezra wouldn't have risked using the derringer, possibly putting the others and himself, in danger, unless he absolutely had to.

The big man was back in view. It was the clearest shot Vin had gotten yet. He was talking, looked toward the floor and then toward where Vin had last seen Ezra. The man raised his gun. Vin took a breath, held it, and released it slowly, finger tightening on the trigger. There was no way in hell he was going to risk Ezra getting hurt by not taking this shot. He aimed carefully and took the shot.

He nodded in satisfaction when the big man went down. Two down, two ta go. No one tries ta take what's mine, ya rat bastard. No one.

He breathed easier, tension draining from his shoulders, when Ezra stood in the window, clearly visible from where Vin was. Ezra raised a hand, and gave Vin his casual two-finger salute. Vin took a deep breath. Must have the other two covered. He knew his lover wouldn't have risked exposing himself so openly if they weren't.

Vin stood and tipped his hat to Ezra. Now ta get down from here. Gotta make sure he's really okay. Vin sought out the quickest route to the ground, and headed down.

*******

Chris heard the report of Vin's rifle. He knew Vin wouldn't have fired if he didn't have a clear shot and reason to do so. That fact worried him more than anything. From where he was he couldn't tell what was going on inside the bank. Vin had a better view, and for him to shoot meant something was happening.

He motioned to Buck who was peeking around the corner of the bank. Buck slide forward around the side. He moved into a crouched position close to the door. From there he might be able to at least hear, if not see, what was happening.

Realistically, Chris knew it hadn't been that long since the children had been released. Less than half an hour really, but to him it felt interminable. He hated waiting. He was the sort who made things happen, not the type who just waited for events to engulf him.

Buck signaled a warning to him. The door was opening. "JD...Josiah...keep your eyes open."

Chris watched tensely, gun drawn and ready. Two men stepped out, their hands empty and raised to shoulder level. Chris shook his head, and felt a grin break loose when Nathan and Ezra stepped out behind them. Little bastard managed to do it again.

Chris came forward, as did Josiah, and JD. Buck straightened up from behind them. "Shoot, boys, you didn't even let us join the party." Buck declared with a smile, startling the two strangers. He kept his gun trained on Cal and Jack. The fun loving ladies man shook his head in disgust. "I hung around special, jus' ta get a chance to dance at this little soire, and y'all went and left me out."

Ezra casually glanced over his shoulder. He winked at Buck. "Perhaps...next time. Hang on...to your...dance card."

Chris winced hearing Ezra speak. The dark bruises on his fair skin stood out in stark contrast. He easily recognized the marks as someone having tried to strangle the gambler. Chris narrowly eyed the two captives in front of him.

"What the hell happened to you?" Chris directed the question toward Ezra but never took his eyes off the two would be bank robbers. Josiah seemed to be just as anxious to hear the story as Chris was. The preacher kept sending concerned looks toward the gambler.

Nathan answered for Ezra giving them a run down of what had happened inside the bank. Chris noticed when Vin seemed to appear out of thin air. He hadn't expected him to show up so quickly. Must have jumped off the roof rather than climb down ta get here so fast.

The tracker never took his eyes off Ezra. Chris was startled to hear a low growl come from his friend as Nathan finished telling how Otis had hit Ezra and then throttled him. He cast a speculative look at Vin.

"Otis dead?" Vin asked quietly. There was no disguising the deadly, murderous tone in that question. Chris got the distinct impression if Otis wasn't dead yet he soon would be. Hell, if Vin doesn't finish him off, Josiah will.

Ezra nodded an affirmative. He popped the derringer from his place in his sleeve, held it for a moment, and then returned it. Chris knew that little gun had proved it's worth more than once. He found it hard to believe a gun that small could kill a man, but seeing is believing, and Ezra had made enough good use of it in the past to convince Chris that it was indeed a deadly fire arm despite its size.

A look passed between Ezra and Vin. Chris frowned. He hadn't noticed that they seemed to be able to communicate without words. He realized that questions were being asked and assurances were given all with nothing more than a few subtle facial movements. Wonder when they started doing that.

Vin smiled ever so slightly. "Wasn't one a yer better plans, Ez."

Ezra shrugged, and smirked. "Improvisation is...not an exact...science."

Vin frowned hearing Ezra speak. "Ya better let Nate look ya over, Ez."

Ezra rolled his eyes. He made an elegant hand gesture toward the two men still standing in front of him. Green eyes calmly looked at JD, and he raised an eyebrow. "Sheriff?"

JD started then blushed slightly. "Oh yeah, sorry Ez." JD waved his gun at the two men indicating they should head down the street. "You two come with me ta the jail. Got a cell jus' waitin' for ya."

"Buck go with him." Chris ordered. The lanky ladies man nodded, and headed with JD toward the jail.

"Josiah, see to the Lovitt and Neville. Make sure they're okay. And then get Ben Johnson to come take care of Clem and Otis." Undertaker is gonna be busy today.

Josiah nodded. He raised a hand to pat Ezra on the shoulder as he walked by. "Ya did good, son."

Ezra neatly sidestepped his reach. He raised two fingers to the brim of his hat in acknowledgement of Josiah's compliment. Ezra holstered his colt, and brushed a hand down the sleeve of his jacket, and adjusted the front lapels to again conceal the weapon.

"Nathan, take Ezra ta the clinic and look him over."

Ezra opened his mouth to protest, but Vin laid a hand on his arm. Vin shook his head. "Don't argue, Ez."

Ezra looked at Vin for a moment. Unlike Josiah, Ezra didn't moved to avoid the tracker's touch, nor did he attempt to shake him off. Chris wondered about that. Normally the gambler went out of his way to avoid contact. Touchy as an angry rattlesnake most o' the time.

Ezra took a breath, and nodded resignedly. Vin smiled. "Cowboy, I'll go with Ez and Nate."

Chris knew that wasn't really a suggestion, and that Vin would go with Ezra and Nate even if he did voice an objection. So Chris just waved a hand motioning them toward the clinic. He caught Vin's eye before the young man moved away. They would talk about this.

Something was definitely going on between Vin and Ezra. It was something more than just Ezra teaching Vin to read. He couldn't be absolutely certain, but Chris knew it was a recent development. Most likely it was something that happened on the trip to Bitter Creek and back. Chris didn't like mysteries. Not one damn bit.

*******

Nathan was pleased that Ezra didn't put up a fight about coming to the clinic. He really did just want to help, and it always bothered him when one of the others shied away from him. In his darker moments, he assumed they did so because he really wasn't a doctor, or in Ezra's case, because he was colored. He had come to realize their reluctance had little to do with him, and everything to do with their desire to stay in control. Too independent and stubborn ta know what's good for `em.

Nathan opened the door to the clinic, with Vin and Ezra trailing in behind him. He had been somewhat surprised by Vin choosing to come along, but had long since given up trying to figure out what motivated the quiet tracker. Nathan waved a hand toward the chair.

"Ezra, go ahead and sit down. Need for you ta removed yer jacket, and open your shirt."

Ezra shrugged out of his jacket in a neat, elegant move that Nathan envied. He had to admit that the gambler did nearly everything with a certain flare and style. Ezra hung his jacket carefully on the chair before he sat down. Nimble fingers unbuttoned his vest, and then the first few buttons of his shirt.

He sat down. Green eyes warily watched Nathan. Nathan smiled. "I ain't gonna hurt ya, Ez."

The raising of one eyebrow was a blatant sign of disbelief. From where he slouched in a seemingly boneless lean against the wall near the door, Vin watched him with an intensity that made Nathan nervous. The only time Vin had ever watched him that closely before was when Chris had been hurt.

Nathan offered a small reassuring smile to the tracker before moving to stand before Ezra. He placed a hand on Ezra's chin and gently turned his head to one side and then the other. Nathan pursed his lips. The bruising was extensive, looking worse as time passed and more bruises rose to the surface, but he didn't think Ezra had suffered any permanent damage.

He felt Ezra tense a bit under his hand, and let go. "Does it hurt for you to talk?" Has to or he'd have been saying a hell of a lot more than he has been.

Ezra shrugged one shoulder. "Some." Nathan was pleased to note that even though Ezra's voice was still raspy, it didn't sound as bad as it had right after Otis had attacked him. It was starting to sound more like he was suffering from a severe cold than that he'd nearly been strangled to death.

"You have any trouble breathing?"

"No."

"Hurt to swallow?"

Ezra nodded. He raised a hand to rub at his throat, but Nathan intercepted him. "Leave it be, Ez. Will just make it worse."

Green eyes narrowed, but Ezra lowered his hand. Nathan moved to boil some water. He usually kept the fire burning and water in the kettle at all times, just in case. "I've got something that should help ease the soreness a bit."

Ezra grimaced. "Vile concoctions."

Nathan chuckled. "Not this time. Trust me."

"I do."

Nathan froze for a moment. That simple statement caught him off guard. He was not expecting any sort of declaration, and certainly not from Ezra. Nathan thought back to what Ezra had said in the bank.

`Surely, you were aware before this moment that not all Whites from the North view Negros with esteem or respect. Not all the boys who fought for the South were from the South.' Guess the opposite o' that is also true. Not all Whites from the south think colored folks is beneath them. Shaking his head, Nathan put the kettle on, and stoked the flames a bit. He turned back toward Ezra.

"Now, while we wait for that ta boil, why don't you let me take a look at your other bruises."

"Not necessary." Ezra shook his head firmly.

Nathan rolled his eyes. "C'mon, Ezra. I know he hit ya pretty hard. Just want ta make sure nothin' is broken."

"Nothing is...broken." Ezra stated.

Nathan ignored that, and stepped forward determined to see for himself. Should have checked everything `fore he got his back up. Knew him behaving was too good to last.

Ezra stiffened. His jaw tightened, and shifted in the chair, ready to get to his feet. He would have lunged away from Nathan if Vin hadn't come forward. Vin placed his hand on Ezra shoulder, gently holding him in place. He rubbed lightly, like he was soothing a skittish colt.

The look Vin sent Nathan kept the healer from moving any closer. Nathan watched quiet Texan with some trepidation. The look he'd gotten clearly stated he would keep Nathan at a distance, by force if necessary.

"Ya sure nothin' is broken?" Vin asked quietly.

Ezra took a breath and nodded. "Been hit...before. Know what broken...feels like." Ezra kept a watchful eye on Nathan. "Just sore...will be stiff tomorrow."

Vin nodded, and patted his shoulder reassuringly. He shook his head at Nathan. Nathan sighed in annoyance. He gave Ezra a hard look.

"I thought you said you trusted me."

Ezra stared at him, jade green eyes unwavering. Nathan found it unnerving to be the focus of that flat, assessing gaze. It bothered him that he felt like he'd just been judged and found wanting.

"Trust you." Ezra smirked. "You do not...trust me. You question...my judgement."

"Just about your health, Ezra. You aren't always the best judge of that." Nathan offered, keeping his tone reasonable. "About everything else, you are usually right on the money."

Green eyes widened slightly. It was the only indication that Ezra was surprised by what Nathan had said. He looked toward Vin. Nathan wasn't sure what passed between them, but Ezra nodded.

"You may...continue with...your examination."

Vin stepped back, and Nathan breathed easier. He was quick, and kept his touch gentle. He opened another button or two, and ran his fingers lightly down both sides of Ezra's torso. Ezra flinched when Nathan tapped his abdomen where a dark bruise shaped like a gun stock was forming. Nathan was relieved to not that muscles were not swollen or unyielding, indicating no sign of internal bleeding.

He frowned when he noticed a faint bruise mark further up on Ezra's chest, almost directly over his heart. Looking at it, Nathan realized it was a passion mark, not a bruise. He'd seen enough of them to know.

Hell, I'll bet Buck is usually sportin' half a dozen on any given day, but I don't remember seein' Ezra with a woman lately. Course, he was gone most of the week. Mighta found himself a lady friend in Bitter Creek. No matter.

Nathan continued with his examination. Ezra flinched again when Nathan ran his hand down his back. The bruise there matched the size and dimensions of the shotgun barrel. That one would likely be present for several days.

Nathan nodded. "You were right, nothing is broken. But you should probably not be on patrol tonight."

"I am capable...of performing...my duties...as assigned, Mr. Jackson."

Nathan sighed. The gambler was a mess of contradictions. Normally he'd be looking for a way to get out of doing his job. Now that he's got a good reason ta just take it easy, he fights me. I will never understand this man.

"Mr. Larabee--"

"I'll talk ta Chris. He can find someone else ta take your shift."

Ezra frowned. He opened his mouth to say something else, but Vin's hand on his shoulder effectively silenced him. Nathan was beginning to think it might be useful to have Vin around every time he had to treat Ezra. Wonder if Ezra will have the same affect on Vin. He can be the worst of the lot when it comes to being patched up. Even Chris can't keep him totally in line.

Ezra buttoned up his shirt, and vest. With a few smoothing hand gestures he again had his clothing in order. Nathan rolled his eyes, thinking Ezra spent more time worrying about his appearance than anyone else he'd ever met.

The teakettle whistled shrilly. Nathan moved to get it. He poured a cup and added some tea, letting it steep for several minutes. Once it had steeped long enough, Nathan used a strainer to remove most of the leaves. He added honey and a little lemon before he offered the cup to Ezra.

Ezra sniffed it carefully. He raised an eyebrow before cautiously taking a sip. He smiled in surprise, dimples showing. "This is good."

Nathan grinned. "Told ya it wouldn't be bad."

"What...is it?" Ezra took another sip.

"Chamomile, with honey and lemon. It's good for sore throats." Nathan had watched to make sure Ezra wasn't having trouble swallowing the liquid before he had answered.

"Indeed. Very good." Ezra saluted him with the cup.

"I want you to drink all of that. And you should have another cup in a few hours. No whiskey." Nathan caught a flicker in Ezra's eyes. "No scotch either. Will just make your throat worse."

Ezra sighed, and waved a hand in an elegant gesture of submission. He finished the cup of tea and offered it to Nathan. He stood and grabbed his jacket. He slipped into it with the same style and grace that he'd used to remove it.

"Ezra?" Ezra turned and looked at Nathan, his expression one of inquiry. "Jus' wanted ta say thanks for savin' my life when we were the bank."

"You already...thanked me."

"The first time, yeah, but not for the second. You were right. If I had lost my temper I coulda got us all killed."

"It was understandable. Otis' remarks...were inflammatory." Ezra shook his head. His voice was a little better, but it obviously pained him to speak. "It was not...right for you...to have to...suffer such...insults...or to allow them...to go unanswered...but circumstances dictated that you do...so. You handled...yourself...and the situation...well."

Nathan felt his face warm at hearing Ezra's compliment. He wasn't so sure he'd agree with Ezra's assessment that he handled himself well. "Thanks, just the same."

"You are welcome."

"An' you did a good job getting those children out safely. Don't' think any o' the rest of us could have done it as quick or as smooth as you did."

Ezra made a dismissive gesture. "They would...never have...been endangered...were it not for me." He turned away and headed for the door.

Nathan knew better than to push the issue. He got the feeling it was an argument Ezra wasn't going to hang around long enough to let him win. "Vin, why don't you take Ezra to his room and see if you can convince him to lay down for a bit. A little rest would probably do him good, and he don't need to be talking any more than necessary."

Vin smiled, and raised a finger to the brim of his hat. "Will do, Nate."

Nathan followed them out to the landing. "I'll bring by another cup of tea for ya, Ezra, in an hour or so."

Ezra gave him a two finger salute, and continued down the stairs with Vin following. Nathan sighed and went back inside. Never know quite what a day will bring `round here. Sure does keep it interesting.

*******

Vin followed Ezra down the stairs. When Ezra paused at the bottom, Vin placed a hand at the small of his back. Ezra cast a sly look over his shoulder at Vin, and a small smile, but didn't say anything.

Vin wasn't entirely convinced that Ezra was all right. Nathan didn't seem to think there was anything serious wrong, and he usually trusted the healer's judgement, but this was Ezra, and he wanted to be absolutely certain. "You okay?"

"Fine." Green eyes met his. "Honestly."

Vin nodded. "Okay. Lets go get ya settled in yer room. Ya can take a nap like Nate said."

Ezra gave a raspy chuckle. "I have not...napped in the...afternoon since...I was a child."

"Well, then I guess yer due."

Ezra grinned at him, and Vin caught his breath, once more stunned by how beautiful the man was when he let his emotions show. The sparkle in his eyes, the open expression of amusement and joy were treasures that Vin never expected to be given to him. Ezra reached out to touch his arm. He looked concerned. "You okay?"

Vin shook himself. "Yeah, yeah. Fine."

Ezra gave him a hard look. "You were not...injured?"

Vin smiled. "No." He supposed his sudden stop and stupid look might have been cause for concern. Vin felt a blush warm his cheeks. "Jus' kind o' gets to me when you smile."

Ezra shyly dipped his head, and Vin was delighted to see a faint blush on Ezra's cheeks too. Oh we've got it so bad. Vin shook himself, and gestured for Ezra to continue down the boardwalk. Together they headed toward the saloon, and Ezra's room.

They made it as far as the Potter's store before being stopped. Seven anxious little faces were waiting there for them. "Mr. Ezra...Mr. Ezra...Mr. Ezra...Are you okay?"

Ezra smiled, and crouched down in front of the children. "Yes. I'm fine. There is...no cause...for alarm."

Cecilia Potter looked doubtful when she heard him speak, as did the other children. Her blue eyes shot worried glances to where the bruises around Ezra's throat were visible above the collar of his shirt. She looked toward Vin. "Mr. Vin?"

Vin smiled at her, touched by the children's obvious concern for Ezra. "Jus' some bruises is all CeCe. Nathan says Ez will be fine. Says he's not s'posed to talk too much for awhile."

Danny and David nodded in unison. "Mr. Ezra, you sound like Danny did when he had a bad cold. Momma said he'd be fine in a few days." David grinned. "And he was."

"Momma g-g-g-"

Ezra held up a hand, and stopped Danny's efforts to speak. He made eye contact with the little boy, and held it for a moment. Danny took a breath, and smiled.

"Momma gave me lemon drops. She said they would help."

Vin was amazed to hear the little boy speak clearly. Must a been somethin' Ez taught him. Vin was proud of Ezra for finding away to help Danny. He knew how easy it would be for the other children to make fun of Danny's speech impediment. Kids, hell even adults, tend ta make fun of anyone who's different. Glad Danny ain't gotta suffer with that.

Danny looked from Ezra to Vin. "Do you think l-l-lemon d-drops would help Mr. Ezra?"

Vin shrugged. "Can't think they'd do any harm."

Josh tugged on Ezra's hand. "C'mon, Mr. Ezra, I bet Momma has some." The children eagerly pulled Ezra toward the door.

Ezra followed them in only to be swept up in a fierce hug by Mrs. Potter. "Thank you, Mr. Standish. Thank you. I knew you would take care of my babies. I knew you would."

Ezra, caught off guard, looked to Vin for help, but Vin simply held up both hands palms up. He winked at Ezra when Ezra threw him a disgusted look. With a silent sigh, Ezra returned her hug, and then made gentle, but firm efforts to pull away. He raised one finger to carefully wipe the tears away from Mrs. Potter's face.

"There...there....It's all right." He soothed trying to calm her down.

Jenny tugged at Ezra's sleeve and offered him a handkerchief. Vin recognized it as one of Ezra's own fine linen ones that he normally carried. Ezra in turn offered the handkerchief to Mrs. Potter. Mrs. Potter dabbed at her eyes, blushing furiously, clearly embarrassed by her loss of control.

She straightened, and patted Ezra's arm. "My apologies, Mr. Standish, for subjecting you to my most undignified display."

Ezra smiled slightly. "Quite all right." He lightly rubbed her arm in simple gesture of consolation and understanding.

She took a closer look at him. "Oh my....what happened?"

Vin jumped in before Ezra could answer, mindful of what Nathan had said about not letting Ezra talk more than he had to. "One of the robbers tried to choke `im, Ma'am."

David piped up. "His throat hurts, and we thought some lemon drops might help."

Mrs. Potter nodded. "Yes, yes, of course. I'm sure I still have some in stock. It won't take me but a moment to get them. Wait right here."

She bustled off quickly. In no time she had returned with a small sack. She offered it to Ezra. When he took the candy, she wrapped her hand around his. "Now if you need more, you let me know."

Ezra tipped his head. He reached into his pocket to pay her, but Mrs. Potter shook her head. "For looking after the little ones." She squeezed the hand she still held. "I know it isn't much, but please, let me offer this as thanks. You took good care of them, and I want you to know I am grateful for that."

Ezra nodded, and bent to please a quick kiss on her cheek. "Thank you."

No one else might have noticed, but Vin could tell just how hard it was for Ezra to maintain his composure. He knew Ezra didn't normally have trouble being the center of attention. Hell he all but dresses just to attract attention.

But this situation was different. This sort of focus wasn't the type Ezra usually found himself in the middle of. He wasn't used to people thanking him. First Nathan, and now Mrs. Potter.

Vin stepped forward. 'Bout time I got him outta here. He cleared his throat slightly trying to get their attention away from Ezra and focused on him. "Now, I know y'all were worried `bout Ezra, but he's gonna be fine. Nathan said so. Said he needs ta just take it easy for a bit. "

He carefully maneuvered himself between small bodies so he could stand next to Ezra, trying to offer support just by being close. "You kids, need at run along and get ta where ever yer s'posed to be, cause I'm sure yer Momma's are all frettin' `bout you, jus' like you was about Ezra. Ya can talk ta Ez tomorrow."

Mrs. Potter nodded, once again firmly back in control of herself. "Quite right. I'm sure your parents want to know that all of you are all safe and sound."

The children all managed to hug Ezra in one fashion or another before bolting out the door. Josh and Cecilia headed for the back room, where Vin suspected they had chores of some kind to finish. Vin shook his head slightly wondering if he'd been that resilient at their ages. At their ages I was already on my own, so I guess I must have been.

Mrs. Potter let go of Ezra's hand. "Now, you take it easy like, Mr. Jackson says. If you need anything, just let me know."

"Will do, Ma'am." Vin raised a finger to the brim of his hat, and he saw Ezra do the same. Together they headed out of the store and toward the saloon. Or at least Vin had intended to, but Ezra pointed toward the alley.

"Back way." Ezra shuddered. "No more well...wishers."

Vin chuckled. "Okay." He knew the shudder had been more for affect than anything else. And he didn't have a problem with going up to Ezra's room the back way. He suspected Chris and the others would be hanging out in the main room. They usually met up there once things calmed down. Longer I avoid him, longer I can come up with what the hell I'm gonna say when he starts askin' questions. And I know he will start askin'. Look he gave me was pretty clear `bout that.

Vin breathed a sigh of relief when they made it to Ezra's room without running into anyone else, or being seen. Not that he didn't have a legitimate excuse to see Ezra to his room it was just better not to have to explain it. And if no one saw him enter, then no one would know how long he'd been there. And Vin didn't plan to leave any time soon.

Once inside, with the door securely locked, Vin pulled Ezra into a tight hug. He'd wanted to do that ever since he'd seen Ezra's salute through the window. He wanted to hold him close and never let go. Hardest thing he'd ever done was to simply stand by and wait for them to be alone.

"God, Ez...you scared me half ta death." Vin whispered.

Ezra hugged him just as hard as Vin was hugging him. "Scared...myself."

Vin rested his head on Ezra's shoulder, breathing in the gambler's scent. He couldn't believe it was just that morning that he had been lying in bed reveling in that same fragrance. How can so much happen in one day?

Vin wanted to feel all of Ezra against him, to know that he was safe and sound. Needed to reassure himself that his lover was indeed alive and well. He'd only just gotten the chance to be with him, and he wasn't ready go back to being on his own. I'll never be ready for that.

"Was so scared when I heard that shot from the bank. Knew you were there. Knew you were there. Thought you went and got yerself killed."

He could feel Ezra's hands moving up and down his back trying to sooth him. Vin placed a kiss on the side Ezra's neck. He could feel Ezra's heart beat strong and steady against his lips. He pulled away enough to kiss Ezra's lips. He had meant to keep the kiss gentle, but it ended up hungry, deep, hard, wet and demanding. He wanted to map every aspect of Ezra's mouth. Vin wanted to memorize every detail.

He raised his hands to cup Ezra's face. Blue eyes met green. "Don't do that again."

"I shall...try not to."

Vin nodded, knowing that given what they did for a living, that was as good a promise as he was going to get. Vin threw off his hat, and shrugged carelessly out of his buffalo coat. He needed to reconnect with Ezra. Needed this now.

"What about the...others?" Ezra was busy with his own clothes, not taking his usual care, but haphazardly discarding them as Vin pulled him toward the bed.

"What about them?" Vin toed out of his boots.

Ezra may have been uncharacteristically careless with his clothes, but he made sure the shoulder holster hung from the headboard within easy reach. And the derringer was carefully placed on the bedside table. "Won't your absence...be noted?"

Vin shrugged. "Don't know. Don't care." He looked at Ezra. "Need this. Need you. Deal with them later."

Ezra smiled, green eyes bright with love and amusement. "A plan?"

Vin laughed lightly, shimmying quickly out of his pants. "I'm improvising."

He pulled Ezra on to the bed with him, sighing when warm, naked flesh met his. The weight of Ezra against him, alive and well, felt very satisfying. This is good. Vin let his hands roam freely over Ezra. Man has the most amazing skin. Never felt anything so good before.

Ezra sighed and relaxed under his touch. It reminded Vin of petting a cat. He nuzzled the spot under Ezra chin. He immediately felt Ezra tense and pull away. Damn. Forgot `bout the bruises.

"Sorry, Ez." Vin mentally slapped himself hard.

Ezra shook his head, and placed a finger against Vin's lips. "It's okay." Ezra moved his finger to place a gentle kiss against Vin's lips. "It's okay."

Vin nodded. Still gotta make it up to him. "How `bout I kiss it an' make it better like my Ma used to?"

Ezra chuckled. "By all...means." The rough quality of Ezra's voice was beginning to sound less like damage and more like passion.

Vin very carefully, tenderly, placed soft kisses on each finger shaped bruise. He rolled them over so he could place a kiss on Ezra's abdomen. Just for good measure he laved Ezra's nipples as well.

Ezra arched his back in response to his touch. "No bruises...there."

Vin grinned at him. "Well, now, I need to do a thorough examination, Ez. Nate might a missed somethin'."

"Can't have that...now, can we?" Ezra waved his hand in a gesture of capitulation, smiling as he did so.

"No, we certainly can't." Vin went back to work, carefully checking every inch of his lover, placing kisses as he went. Ezra tasted as good as he smelled. Vin idly wondered if that was his own natural flavor or a by-product of the soap he used. Have to ask him later. Much later.

Vin worked his way down Ezra's torso toward his groin. He grinned up at Ezra as he wrapped his hand around Ezra's leaking shaft, stroking lightly up and down. "Looks like ya got some swellin' here, Ez. Reckon I oughta take care o' that?"

Ezra took a shuddering breath. He opened eyes heavy lidded with passion, the pupils so large on a faint trace of green was visible. His answer came out in a long sigh of yes.

Vin loved seeing Ezra like this. His breathing ragged, his skin flushed, hair messed up, expression open and honest, eyes revealing everything. No one else got to see him this way. This was his Ezra.

Vin lowered his head, and took Ezra's erection into his mouth. He tried to remember the things Ezra had done to him, all those things that felt so very good. Vin wanted this to be as good for Ezra as it had been for him.

His tongue ran over the head, tasting him. Hmmmm...salty, bit bitter...not bad though. Vin sucked gently. He moved a hand to play gently with Ezra's balls, getting a rough moan in reply to his touch.

Little sighs, and whimpers let him know how much Ezra enjoyed what he was doing. He curled his tongue around one side and then the other, careful not to let his teeth do any damage. He hadn't figured out how to take all of Ezra into his mouth without gagging, but Ezra didn't seem to mind.

Vin increased his speed. He hummed lightly, remembering how intense that had felt when Ezra did it to him. Vin leaned more of his weight across Ezra's hips keeping him from thrusting, letting Vin control the depth and pace.

He could feel Ezra shaking. He knew his lover was close. Just listening to those mewling sounds of pleasure, knowing he was the one who'd caused them had gotten him close as well.

Vin let go of Ezra's balls, and grabbed himself, unable to ignore his own arousal any longer. Ezra moved a hand to cup his face, halting him. Vin looked up in surprise, wondering if he'd done something wrong. Ezra smiled at him, reassurance and an invitation.

"C'mere, Vin."

Vin obeyed, raising his head and releasing Ezra with one last, long lick like a child with a sucker. He moved to kiss Ezra. He moaned into Ezra's mouth as Ezra's hands went exploring.

"Want you to...come with me." Ezra panted. "Not just me. Both of us."

Vin nodded. He shifted so that their cocks aligned. He couldn't keep himself from thrusting in response to that contact. Ezra's hips rose to meet him. They kept moving together, both enjoying the friction being created between them.

"So good....Ez...so good."

He felt Ezra running his fingers through his hair. He shivered, and fisted his hands in the blanket. There was something about having Ezra play with his hair that got to him every time. He let go of the blanket to move his hands over Ezra again. He slid them down Ezra's sides to cup Ezra's ass, kneading those firm, beautiful spheres, encouraging him to thrust harder and faster.

Vin could feel his own orgasm building. It was like riding a wave, one he knew wouldn't last but felt incredible while it did. He dropped his head to Ezra's shoulder, biting his knuckles to keep from shouting as he came. No noise...no noise.

He felt Ezra go taut under him, his head tipped back, and whole body arching off the bed. His hands clenched in to fists in Vin's hair. Ezra's breath escaped in a hiss, coming out between tightly clenched teeth.

When his breathing and heart rate returned to normal, Vin raised his head from where he had let it rest on Ezra's shoulder. He raised a hand to caresses Ezra's cheek with the back of his fingers. Ezra opened his eyes, and grinned at him.

Vin kissed him before he got up to find something to clean them up with. Can't leave us a sticky mess. He grinned at the thought, briefly wishing he could do just that. They really didn't have enough time to enjoy the afterglow.

He handed Ezra his pants and shirt, then grabbed his own clothes, intent on getting dressed. Vin wasn't sure when Nathan would be by with more tea, and he didn't want to be caught naked. Last thing we need.

He slipped back into his pants. Vin could feel Ezra's eyes on him as he did. He tried to ignore that intense look. He could literally feel Ezra's eyes on his skin like a ghost of a caress. "Stop doin' that." He growled.

Ezra sent him a look of complete innocence that would have been totally believable if Vin didn't know Ezra as well as he did. "And don't try that `butter wouldn't melt in my mouth' look on me Ezra P. Standish. You know `xactly what I'm talkin' about."

Ezra sighed. "Spoilsport." Ezra had finished putting on his clothes, and checked his appearance in the mirror, running a brush through his messy hair bring the curls back in line. He looked like he was preparing to leave.

Vin shook his head. Stubborn. "Might as well lay back down. Yer s'posed to be resting. An' I'm s'posed ta see to it that ya do."

Ezra sighed heavily sounding very put upon, and rolled his eyes. But he didn't argue. Ezra moved back toward the bed and pulled the pillows from under the covers. He laid down on his side, facing Vin. "Will you...stay?"

Vin nodded. "Planned to." He wasn't ready to leave yet.

"Good."

Vin opened the window slightly before joining Ezra on the bed. Ezra raised an eyebrow. "Don't want Nate ta know what we was doin'. Figure some fresh air wouldn't hurt."

Ezra chuckled, green eyes dancing with mischief. "Good idea."

Vin laid down. Ezra turned so he could rest his head on Vin's shoulder, snuggling in close, one leg drawn up over Vin's. To Vin this was the best part. This was the part where he got to be held, and to hold in return. There hadn't been a lot of moments like these in his life. Moments of simple physical comfort, of knowing that you were cared for, that you cared about someone else as well. And from what Ezra had told him of his past there hadn't been many in his life either. Nice. Very nice.

Vin raised a hand to cradle Ezra's head, his fingers gently massaging Ezra's scalp. He could feel Ezra going boneless against him, his breathing becoming slow, deep and even. It had been a taxing day for both of them. Vin closed his eyes and just let himself enjoy this.

*******

Chris made himself comfortable at the seven's usual table. He sighed heavily. How can a day go from sugar to shit so fast? One minute things are quiet, the next we got bank robbers and kids held at gun point.

Chris poured himself a drink from the bottle he'd gotten when he entered. Least no one important ended up dead. Guess that's the best you can hope for some days. He looked up from his drink as JD wandered through the batwing doors. JD got himself a mug of milk from the bar before he joined Chris. JD slid into his usual chair.

"Buck on patrol?"

"Yeah. He just left a few minutes ago. Figured it was better late than never." JD swallowed a mouthful of milk.

Chris nodded. He had known that Buck would head out once the prisoners got settled. No matter what happened they still had a job to do. "Find out who the two ya put in jail are?"

"Cal and Jack Sanders. Not wanted for anything that I could find. Didn't put up much of a fuss." JD shook his head. "Just don't seem like the type ta be robbing banks."

Chris raised an eyebrow. "The type?"

JD shrugged. "Chris, they apologized for causing us trouble. Said they were glad Clem let the kids go. Heck, they even asked if Ezra was all right." JD looked amazed. "Just don't act like the sort of desperados we usually get."

Kid's got a point. The kind we normally get usually try ta kill us. Hell, I didn't even get shot at today. "JD, even the hardest criminal has got there start somewhere."

JD nodded. "I know." He grinned. "We jus' don't usually get the beginners."

Chris chuckled, and raised his glass. JD tapped it lightly with his mug. "Here's to greenhorns."

Chris looked at JD. No time like the present to ask. "You said you knew months ago that Ezra was teaching."

JD looked at him is surprise. "Yeah. So?"

"How did you find out?"

"Well, jeez, Chris, it's my job ta know what's goin' on in town. Wouldn't be much of a sheriff if I didn't." JD said it like it he was saying the sky was blue and that it should be obvious to anyone. He sipped his milk.

"Saw Ez spending time in Mrs. Potter's store every day after lunch. Ain't enough in there ta look at for more than one day, much less a couple a hours almost every day. Store just isn't that big. An' everybody knows when she gets a new shipment, so it weren't like Ez woulda been hanging around for no reason. He ain't the type ta waste his time that way."

JD shrugged. "So I asked him what he was doing."

Chris frowned. "And he told you?"

JD looked at him with a puzzled expression. "Course he did. Ezra always answers a question. Just gotta remember ta ask the right one is all. Sides, it weren't like he was doing anything wrong or had something ta hide. Heck, Ezra even asked me help out a few times." The last was said with pride.

"Was kind of fun it ya wanna know the truth. Don't remember my schooling being anywhere near as much fun. Ezra's got all kinds of word and number games. Stuff isn't nearly so boring if ya can play with it. Kids seem to really like it too."

Chris was still trying to get a handle on the `Ezra always answers a question' bit. Don't remember the man answering me. But then before today, I guess I never really asked the man much, I just assumed. Or maybe I asked the wrong questions.

JD studied Chris. He looked faintly apprehensive. "You don't think Ez is doing something wrong, do ya? I mean, I know he ain't like a real teacher, but there ain't anyone better in town ta do the job. Ezra's the smartest guy I've ever met. And it wouldn't be right for those kids ta grow up not knowing how ta read and write."

"No. He isn't doing anything wrong." Chris shook his head. "I just didn't know about him teaching until today." Chris looked hard at JD. "He ask you not to say anything?"

"Nope." JD shrugged one shoulder. "Weren't like it was a big secret. Figured you already knew." JD grinned in sudden delight. "Hey, I knew something you didn't know."

Chris rolled his eyes. "Well, don't expect it to happen often."

JD laughed. "Heck, I'm surprised it happened at all." The younger man was still grinning when Josiah came in.

Josiah sat down in his usual chair. He raised eyebrows seeing JD's grin, but didn't ask. JD just chuckled. He finished his milk. "See ya around." And with that the kid was out the door.

Chris shook his head. "You remember having that kind of energy?"

Josiah sighed. "No."

"Me neither."

Inez came over with a mug of beer for Josiah. She took JD's mug away with her when she left. Chris knocked back the remainder of his drink.

"Johnson get Clem and Otis taken care of?"

Josiah nodded tiredly. "Yeah. He's got them over at his place as we speak."

"The bankers?"

"Brother Lovitt is a bit shaken. As is Neville. But neither one has suffered much in the way of ill effects from today."

Chris nodded. "Good." One less thing to worry about.

"Neville put the money back in the vault, but Mr. Lovitt is worried about how secure the bank will be with a busted window."

Chris grimaced. "Don't suppose just boarding it up occurred to him?"

Josiah chuckled. "To him, no. To me, yes."

He filled his glass again. "Good. Glad someone has some sense."

"Amen, brother, amen."

"Have you seen Ezra?"

"Not since he went up to Nate's to get looked over." Hmmm...come to think of it, I haven't seen Vin since then either. Wonder where he went.

Josiah frowned, his blue eyes worried. "Sure do hope that boy is all right."

Chris pursed his lips. "I'm sure if there was something wrong we'd have heard about it by now." He didn't think Ezra could be too badly hurt since he was moving under his own power.

Josiah nodded, but still looked worried. He smiled suddenly. "Can't believe he got them to let the children go."

Chris chuckled. "Would have loved to have heard that conversation."

"Indeed." Josiah sipped his beer. "That boy does have a way with words. Have to ask Nate what he said."

"Why not ask Ezra?" Maybe I'm not the only one who thinks he can't get a straight answer out of the man.

"From the way he sounded, I don't think he'll be up to talking much. Be easier on him to let Nate tell us."

Chris considered that. Trust Josiah to have a practical reason for everything. They sat in companionable silence for several minutes, just relaxing and letting go of the recent stress.

Chris glanced up when he saw Nathan enter. Nathan was carrying a small teapot. It was the one he normally used to bring medicine to someone when injured. Chris had mentally dubbed it the mobile pot. It seemed like Nathan never went anywhere without the thing.

Nathan headed toward their table. "Chris. Josiah."

"Nate."

Josiah looked at the pot. "Something for Ezra?"

"Yeah. He's supposed to be resting in his room. Told him I'd bring this by."

Josiah looked at him in surprise. "And you honestly think he's up there?" Chris thought that was a valid question given how easily, and how often, the gambler could simply disappear.

Nathan grinned. "Vin said he'd make sure Ezra went. Kinda got the impression that Ezra wouldn't sass Vin much."

And why not? Man sasses everyone else. Maybe Ezra is hurt worse than I thought./ "Ezra all right?" Chris asked quietly.

"Should be fine in a day or so. Didn't do any permanent damage. But it's gonna hurt for him to talk for a bit. Told him I didn't think he should be on patrol tonight." Nathan's dark brown eyes met Chris' dark blue ones. "Told him that I'd let you know."

Chris nodded. He had figured as much. He cast a questioning glance toward Josiah. The big man shrugged. "I can cover it for another day. Or night, as the case may be."

Josiah looked toward the stairs. "You going up now?" He asked Nathan.

"Yeah. Figured I might as well see if the stubborn southern fool is really doing what I told him to. He might not sass Vin, but that don't mean he didn't give him the slip as soon as he could."

"I believe I'll come along."

"Suit yourself."

Nathan headed upstairs. Josiah followed. Chris sighed, downed the drink he still had sitting in front of him, and moved to go with them. Might as well see for myself that he's okay. Maybe Ezra knows where Vin went.

Nathan gently rapped his knuckles against Ezra's door. He stood off to the side as he did so. Chris thought that a wise choice since it didn't seem to matter what time of day, Ezra could be rather violent about letting someone know he wasn't welcome. The small bullet holes that he'd seen on the door jam were testimony to that. It was one of the reasons Chris usually sent someone else to wake the gambler.

"Ez...it's Nate. I brought ya another cup of tea."

The door opened, but instead of it being Ezra it was Vin. The tracker raised a finger to his lips. "He's sleepin'." Vin said quietly.

"Not any more...Mr. Tanner." A roughened, southern drawl came from the bed behind Vin. "You may...allow Mr. Jackson... to enter."

With a shrug, Vin let them in. Ezra raised an eyebrow at seeing Chris and Josiah. He didn't comment, but simply returned his colt to the holster hanging from the bedpost. He pulled the pillows behind him and casually leaned back against them.

Chris let out a low whistle when he saw just how livid the bruises on Ezra's throat had become. He rubbed his own throat in sympathy. "Damn, Ez, didn't think they were that bad."

"You sure you're all right, Son?" Josiah inquired, his expression earnestly concerned.

Ezra shot him a withering glance. "I'm fine." His gaze shifted toward Chris. "Bruises...always look worse...later, Mr. Larabee."

Nathan picked up a cup from Ezra's bedside table and filled it. Ezra took the cup when Nathan held out to him. To Chris' surprise, Ezra drank it without complaint. Must not be the usual stuff. Nobody drinks that willingly.

Nathan watched him swallow carefully. "Still breathing all right?"

Ezra nodded. Nathan took the cup when Ezra handed it back to him. "Still hurt to speak? To swallow?"

"A bit."

Chris figured the short answers were proof enough that it hurt Ezra to speak. Man uses more words than anyone else I know. Must be the first time I've ever heard him give a short answer.

Nathan nodded. "Should be better tomorrow, Ezra." He gave Ezra a stern look. "Remember, no whiskey. No scotch either. Don't want to aggravate your throat any more than necessary."

Vin picked up a small paper bag, and casually tossed to Ezra who neatly caught it with one hand. He opened the bag, pulled out a lemon drop, and popped it in his mouth. He carelessly tossed the bag back to Vin who also took a piece of candy out.

"Lemon drops?" Nathan raised his eyebrows. Vin was infamous for his sweet tooth, and seemed to have candy on him somewhere all the time. But Ezra wasn't the sort to normally eat candy. Dessert, oh yes, he loved pie, but not candy.

"The kids caught up with us on our way here. Danny and David seemed ta think they would help." Vin said, lemon dropped tucked securely in one cheek. "Mrs. Potter wouldn't let us leave without takin' some."

Nathan pursed his lips in thought. He nodded once. "Can't hurt." He gave Ezra a hard look. "I'll check on you tomorrow."

Ezra's expression took on a stubborn cast. Chris fully expected him to rebel, and evidently so had Nathan based on the look he'd given Ezra. But a look passed between Ezra and Vin. Ezra sighed. He nodded toward Nathan. "Tomorrow...Mr. Jackson."

Wonder what the hell just happened here. Chris tipped his head toward Ezra. "Josiah will take your patrol tonight."

Ezra nodded. He raised a hand to rub at his eyes. It surprised Chris to see the man actually look tired. In all the time he'd know Ezra the man never looked like he wasn't ready to take on the world. It didn't matter if he'd been up at the tables all night, or had spent the entire day in the saddle, he always looked ready for anything.

Never realized that was just an illusion. Christ, what kind of leader doesn't realize when his men get tired. How many times have I picked Ezra ta do something just because he didn't look done in? Damn. Thought I was smarter than that.

Chris could hear Maude's voice in his head telling Ezra that appearances were everything. He had thought it nothing more than a line, a con that worked on fools. Guess I just found out I'm as big a fool as the next man.

Nathan made a shooing motion toward Chris, Josiah and Vin. "Let's let the man rest." His voice clearly indicated he would brook no argument from them. Everyone but Ezra would be leaving whether he liked it or not.

Vin headed for the door only after he and Ezra shared another look. All right, damn it, I want to know what's going on. Now.

Chris waited for Josiah and Nathan to head down the hall in front of him. He grabbed Vin's arm as they moved toward the stairs, and stopped him. "Cowboy, we need to talk."

Vin looked pointedly at Chris' hand, and then shrugged out of his grip. "Sure."

Chris tipped his head toward the backstairs, and moved toward them. This time of day the hallway was deserted, and the top of the stairs gave them a good view of the entire floor. Chris wasn't sure but he had a pretty good idea that Vin wasn't going to talk to him unless they had some privacy.

Best place would be the roof of the building. Only people who are ever up there are Vin and Ezra. Damn mountain goats. Since I ain't planning ta break my neck falling of some roof, guess the livery will have to do.

Chris leaned against the wall, and steadily regarded the man he thought of as his brother. "Wanna tell me just what is going on between you and Ezra?"

Vin leaned against on of the opposite wall. He met Chris' gaze, his expression completely neutral. It was a fair imitation of Ezra's poker face. "What makes you think there is somethin' goin' on?"

Chris glared at him. "Don't give me that!" Chris hissed, careful not to raise his voice. "He's sharing his scotch with you, and teaching you to read. You let him take care of that ornery horse of yours. You're suddenly touchy about everything any one says about Ezra. You lit into me, and Josiah."

Chris frowned. "You froze outside the bank today...something I have never known you to do. Then you tell Ezra to let Nathan look him over, and he does it without so much as a single argument. And you actually got him to stay in his room and rest. The man lets you touch him when he shies away from anyone else like a skittish horse. He was even sharing candy with you not two minutes ago."

Chris waved a hand in frustration. "For crying out loud, you two are having whole conversations without saying a single word. Now, Tell. Me. What. Is. Going. On."

Vin's eyes narrowed, and he regarded Chris warily. He looked way, biting his lower lip. Chris could almost see him thinking about what to say. Apprehensive, uncertain blue eyes met his for a moment.

"Anyone else notice anything?"

Chris shrugged. "I don't think so." But then, I seem to be the last one to find out about anything important lately, so I could be wrong about that. "I know Nate noticed that Ezra didn't sass you earlier, and actually went without fighting the way he normally does. But I'm not sure that anyone else has noticed the rest."

Vin seemed to be weighing something in his mind. The longer he stayed quiet the more concerned Chris got. "This thing between you and Ez...it is something bad?" Chris watched Vin carefully. Wouldn't have thought so, but with these two you can never be certain of anything.

Vin shrugged one shoulder. "I think it's a good thing. So does Ez. But not everybody would see it that way." Vin squared his shoulders a bit, and looked Chris in the eye. "You might have a problem with it."

Vin sighed and shifted his weight slightly. Chris was suddenly conscious of how young the other man was. Hell, he isn't but a few years older than JD.

"Sides, story ain't just mine ta tell. Decision ain't just mine ta share it either."

"Meaning?"

"Meanin' if you wanna know yer gonna have to ask me, and Ezra."

"Well, I already asked you." Chris ground out.

Vin rolled his eyes. "You know what I mean." He moved back toward Ezra's room, and Chris followed. He expected Vin to knock, because he was sure that Ezra would have locked the door. The man always did. Vin reached inside his shirt and removed a key.

"You have a key to Ezra's room?" Chris asked in surprise.

"No, this is a key to the room down the hall." Vin's voice was as dry as the desert. "I just thought I'd see if it worked in Ezra's door."

Chris sighed. Ask a stupid question Larabee, you shouldn't be surprised when you get a stupid answer. And now he's even doing Ezra's sarcasm. God help us all.

Ezra was still sitting on the bed. He had a book in one hand, and his colt in the other. When he saw Vin, Ezra smiled and lowered the gun. Chris was stunned for a moment seeing that open expression of welcome, and delight. It was a look he'd never seen on the gambler before.

The minute Ezra realized Vin wasn't alone his expression was schooled into the bland, pleasant expression Chris knew far to well. The gun came back up and was aimed at Chris. The transformation didn't take any longer than it took to blink, and for a moment Chris doubted he'd even seen it.

"Mr. Larabee....I was...not expecting anyone...to return so soon." Ezra closed his book, but didn't lower the gun. He looked from Vin to Chris. "Trouble?"

Vin shook his head. "Not exactly, Ez. Leastwise, not that kind yer gonna need a gun for."

Ezra nodded, and holstered his gun. He waved a hand toward the rocker, and moved to sit up further, freeing space at the foot of the bed. Chris wasn't surprised when Vin took the bed, and left the rocker for him.

Ezra waited, green eyes firmly on Chris. Chris shook his head slightly. Guess he's sure the trouble is me and not Vin. Chris couldn't decided if he was amused or hurt by that.

Never one to mince words, Chris got right to the point. "What is going on between you and Vin?"

Ezra frowned. He looked toward Vin. Vin shrugged. "He noticed. Sorry, Ez."

Hard green eyes returned to Chris. They assessed him from head to toe. Chris suppressed a shiver he felt under that icy gaze. He was not afraid of Ezra, but that look let him know that Ezra was, and always would be, a dangerous man in his own right, so he would be wise to tread lightly.

"And...just what have...you noticed, Mr. Larabee?" Despite the hoarse quality to his voice, and injury induced hesitation, there was no mistaking the almost defiant nature of that question.
Chris went through the same list he'd given Vin earlier. He added to it the fact that Vin had a key to Ezra's room. Looking at Ezra he couldn't tell a thing from the man's face. Chris might have just as easily been talking about the weather for all the more response he got from Ezra.

Ezra looked to Vin again. "Yes or no?"

Chris couldn't make heads or tails of the question, but Vin didn't seem to have any trouble. He took a deep breath, and let it out slowly. "Shouldn't be just my choice. Should be our choice."

Ezra half smiled. "Your friend. Best friend. You have...more to lose...makes it your...choice."

Chris frowned. I'm not just Vin's friend. I'm yours too, Ezra. Before he could voice that sentiment Vin had come to a decision and nodded his head.

"He asked an honest question. Man deserves an honest answer. Plan was ta not offer any more information than they asked for, but he asked." Vin looked troubled. "Wouldn't be right ta lie, Ez. An' I really don't want to."

"Then don't." Ezra reached over and gently squeezed Vin's shoulder. With a soft reassuring smile, he waved a hand toward Chris clearly offering to let Vin tell him. Vin scowled at him, but his eyes were bright with affection. "Next time you get to do it."

Ezra chuckled. "Fair enough."

Vin looked at Chris, and cleared his throat. "Not exactly sure how ta go about this, Cowboy."

Chris sat back and tried to look relaxed. He hoped that by looking at ease, he could help reduce some of the tension he saw in the younger man. He smiled slightly. "Best place to start would probably be the beginning."

Vin snorted. "The beginning? Hell, that would be damn near a year ago."

"A year?"

"Well, yeah. That's when we first met."

"You and me?"

"Yeah. An' me and Ez."

Chris frowned. "But what's going on is recent, right?" Chris felt a momentary flash of panic. Have I missed this for that long?

He breathed easier when Vin nodded. "Yeah. It's recent. Since we went to Bitter Creek." Vin sighed. "Well, leastwise some of it its recent. Been buildin' for awhile, just didn't do anythin' about it until then. Finally got the courage up ta quit dancing around."

Chris rolled his eyes, and held up a hand, stopping Vin's flow of words. He looked pointedly at Ezra. "Maybe this would work better if you told me."

Ezra looked to Vin, and waited. Vin waved a hand, clearly gesturing for Ezra to take over. "Words never were my forte, Ez."

Ezra grinned at the last word. Chris knew it had to be one Vin learned from Ezra. The gambler nodded. "You do the next one then."

The tracker nodded with a small smile. "Sure, Ez."

With a small jerk of his head, Ezra pointed with his chin toward the dresser, and Vin got up. The tracker retrieved the small bag of lemon drops Chris had seen earlier. He handed one to Ezra.

"Thank you." Ezra popped on in his mouth, and turned on the bed so he squarely faced Chris. Chris noted that Vin had narrowed the space between himself and Ezra when he had sat back down on the bed. Their shoulders were close enough to touch. Chris got the impression he was facing a united front. It was disconcerting.

"For some time, practically since...the day we met....I have been...attracted to Mr. Tanner."

Ezra's green eyes were calm, and watchful. Chris got the feeling he wasn't going to be making a single move that Ezra wasn't waiting for. He made a `go on' motion with his hand, not entirely certain of where Ezra was headed.

"I was attracted to him...the way a man...is usually...attracted to a woman. You understand me, yes?"

Chris felt his mouth drop open. He looked from Ezra to Vin. Vin shrugged. "An' I was attracted ta Ez the same way, Cowboy."

Okay. Not what I expected. "I don't..." Chris licked his lips, cleared his throat, and tried again. "I didn't know that either of you were, well, like that."

Ezra raised an eyebrow. "You weren't...meant to. It is not as if...the fact was blatantly advertised."

It wasn't an entirely foreign concept to Chris. During the war he'd known a few men who'd sought out the company of other men. For the most part he didn't care what they did or who they did it with, as long as they managed to do their job. Man has to make allowances during a war. Does strange things to you, and I can understand looking for comfort and release where ever you can find it. But, hell we ain't at war, and I never thought Vin or Ezra were interested in men like that..

"But you both like women." Chris insisted still trying to wrap his mind around the idea of two men involved in a sexual relationship by choice and not out of necessity.

Ezra cocked his head to one side, and studied Chris. "You base this assumption on what, Mr. Larabee?" His voice was still rough, but he seemed to be speaking with less pain, or at the very least he seemed to find it easier to talk.

Maybe those lemon drops really do help. Chris frowned, and refocused his thoughts on Ezra's question. He'd seen Ezra flirt with half the women in town. But flirting is all he does. Man never seems to go anywhere with it. Even when they are clearly offering more. Chris had to admit he'd never seen the man spend any length of time with a woman. Well except for that little Chinese girl, and hell, even I know Ezra didn't do anything with her. She was just a child and he was trying to help her out.

Chris looked toward Vin. "What about Charlotte?"

Vin sighed heavily. "Was a mistake." His expression took on a rueful mien. "Huge mistake. Even you couldn't argue that I was makin' the right choice there."

Chris had to admit Vin had a point. He hadn't approved of Vin's involvement with Mrs. Richmond, but he hadn't stood between them either. He figured that Vin was a grown man, capable of making his own decisions, and sometimes it was best to let people make their own mistakes. It seemed to be the only way some people ever learned. Chris got up to pace. Sometimes he thought better on his feet.

"Okay. Let me see if I got this." He looked toward Ezra. "You've always been attracted to men?"

Ezra shrugged one shoulder. "Not always. And not exclusively. But for the most part you would be correct."

"And you?" Chris waved a hand toward Vin.

"Wasn't really interested in men that way `til I met Ez." A faint blush dusted Vin's cheeks, but he didn't look away.

Chris' eyes narrowed. Wasn't interested in men...Ezra said he was attracted to men before, and to Vin from the beginning, so maybe he's just some dog looking for a leg to hump. Although, I gotta admit that's a thought more worthy of Buck, than Ezra. Still... "You sure this isn't some con? Some sort of scam?"

Chris knew a lot of what he was thinking had to have come through the tone of those questions, and probably the look on his face as well. Blue eyes spit fire at him, and Vin would have lunged at him, if Ezra had not put a restraining hand on his arm. Ezra shook his head slightly at Vin.

"It is a valid question, Vin."

Chris was surprised that Ezra used Vin's first name. He doesn't call any of us by our first names. He was also surprised that Ezra didn't appear offended by the question. He knew the conman hadn't missed what he implied. Implied hell, I came right out and said it.

"No, it ain't." Vin declared hotly. "He knows you better'n that. Least he ought to." Vin glared at Chris. "And he sure as hell ought to know me better'n that."

The tracker's eyes raked Chris from head to toe. "You think I'm that stupid? That I couldn't see through a con?"

Vin shook his head in disgust. "Hell, Chris, I've been around enough ta know when someone jus' wants ta get in my pants. Women have been tryin' to do that since I old enough ta shave. `Sides, I see through everythin' else Ez does, you really think this would be any different?"

"Okay." Chris held up both hands, palms out. "It was a stupid question."

"Damn right it was." Vin snarled at him, clearly not yet appeased. Ezra tapped his arm, and got his attention.

"He didn't know there was more, Vin."

"Well, then he shoulda waited for us ta tell him everythin'." Vin insisted stubbornly. He sent another dark look toward Chris. "Ain't just about sex, Chris. Never was. It's more than that. I love Ez, and he loves me."

More than that? "You can't be serious! I mean, it isn't like the two of you have a lot in common." Chris looked at them still sitting side by side. One well educated, southern gentleman, and a scruffy, former bounty hunter.

They look like opposite ends of the spectrum. How the hell can there be more to what they are doing than the physical? His brief understanding of men involved with other men never covered anything else. None of those men ever formed long lasting pairs.

Ezra smirked at him. "We probably have more in common than you and Mrs. Travis do, but that has not stopped your pursuit of the lady."

Chris lowed one hand to his gun. "Care to explain that?"

Ezra regarded him mildly, not the least bit intimidated by his action. "She is a hard working, business woman. A well-respected pillar of the community who's past and present are well known. She is concerned for this town, and the people in it. Devoted mother. A refined, elegant lady who's outspoken zeal for her ideals very nearly got her killed."

Ezra waved an elegant hand that encompassed Chris. "You still mourn the loss of your family. You cared for no one when you came here. Hoard your past like a miser hoards gold. You are a hired gun. A killer." Ezra raised an eyebrow. "The bad element, I believe, you told her."

Chris sighed. Hard to argue with him there. Never really thought about it, but on the surface, Mary and I don't have a lot in common.

"Fortunately, there is more to each of us than what resides on the surface." Ezra stated, clearly seeing what Chris was thinking. "Appearances are far from everything, Mr. Larabee. You and Mrs. Travis are building a firm relationship. There is no reason to think Vin and I could not do likewise despite the outward differences."

"Despite outward differences." Chris repeated incredulous. "Ezra, it is more than that and you know it."

"No." Ezra said firmly. "I do not know that."

"Don't be coy." Chris snapped. "It ain't like you two can get married."

"And it isn't like Buck intends to marry every women he attempts to seduce either. But I do not see you interfering with his private affairs." Ezra's voice was hard and cold.

"That's different."

"Really. Care to explain how?"

Chris glared at him. "It's normal."

"Ah. Normal." Ezra shot him a condescending look. "So it would be perfectly acceptable to for us to mindlessly fornicate like weasels in heat with any and every woman we meet, but not to establish a long term relationship with each other base on mutual respect and love. Is that what you are saying?"

Chris scowled. It wasn't what he'd meant but in some ways it had been exactly what he was thinking. And he had to admit that Buck's approach to women wasn't exactly normal either. It was just something he was used to, and made allowances for because Buck was an old friend, and it just seemed to be part of his nature.

"You accused me of simply using Vin to satisfy my carnal desires. And to be honest, I found that just as insulting as Vin did. I have never used another person that way, as if he or she were simply an object to satisfy my needs. It is demeaning to do so."

Green eyes studied him coldly. "What was even more insulting, is that you seemed to have found the idea of my using him as a whore, to be more acceptable than our wanting to establish a long term relationship with one another."

"Enough!" Chris snapped at him. "Enough." He said again quietly, striving for a more reasonable tone. Chris rubbed a hand over his face, realizing that Ezra was right. Damn Ezra doesn't pull his punches when he's pissed.

"I'm sorry." He looked at Vin then at Ezra. "Really. I am sorry. I didn't mean to...well, I didn't mean to insult either of you. This was not what I was expecting, and I'm...well, I think we can agree that I'm not exactly handling it well."

Ezra nodded. He smiled sadly. "Were it solely my decision, I would have lied to you, and avoided all of this."

Chris nodded. "Yeah. Almost wish you had, but I'm glad you didn't."

Ezra tipped his head in acknowledgement. He studied Chris for several minutes. "What will you do now?"

Chris frowned. "What'd ya mean?"

"As Vin alluded to earlier, we did not plan to tell anyone." Ezra shrugged one shoulder. "We planned to continue as though nothing had changed. We both are aware that our relationship is not the sort well regarded by good, upstanding, Christian people." There was just the trace of a sneer in the last bit.

Ezra sighed tiredly. "But you asked, and now you know. The next move is yours, Mr. Larabee."

Chris moved back toward the rocker and sat down again. He looked from Ezra to Vin and back. "You both sure this is something you want?"

Vin nodded. "Yeah."

"Yes, Mr. Larabee."

"This isn't something either of you entered into lightly?" Chris wanted to be absolutely certain. Please tell me you didn't just jump into this.

"I can assure, Mr. Larabee, neither of us undertook this liaison without due consideration."

Chris nodded. "This isn't going to change how you work together?"

"It should not interfere with our duties."

Chris looked toward Vin. He had not forgotten the way Vin had frozen briefly outside the bank. Vin quirked an eyebrow letting Chris know he hadn't forgotten it either. He nodded slightly assuring Chris that it wouldn't happen again.

Deciding to test the waters Chris asked, "If I said I thought this was wrong, and you should put a stop to it now?"

Ezra looked away and didn't answer, but Chris could see the tension radiating off the man. Vin laid a hand on Ezra's arm, his long fingers encircling the smaller man's wrist. Vin looked at Chris, his expression calm. There was no doubt his mind was already made up. "We'd leave."

For just a moment Chris was stunned. Somehow that wasn't the answer he'd been expecting. Oddly enough he wasn't disappointed by it either. "That serious, Cowboy?"

Vin nodded. "That serious. Wouldn't give him up for you or this town."

"Are you happy?"

Vin smiled. It was nearly blinding so much joy did it radiate. "Very."

"Ezra?"

"Yes, Mr. Larabee?" Ezra raised his eyes to meet Chris'.

"Are you happy?"
"Ecstatic." Ezra looked at him, and for once his expression was completely open and honest. Chris sucked in a breath, stunned by what he saw. My god, I never realized how expressive his eyes can be. There was no doubt that Ezra was every bit as happy with Vin as Vin was with him.

"You really love each other?"

Vin and Ezra shared a look, and then nodded, answering him together.

"Okay then."

Ezra raised an eyebrow. "Okay what?"

Chris chuckled. "You were right. You're both adults. And I'm in no position to judge either of you. I make allowances for Buck's behavior around women because he's an old friend, and he's always been like that. I make allowances for JD because he's young. I put up with Josiah's parables, and Nathan's stinky teas. I should be able to make allowances for both of you as well."

He hesitated for a second. "And for what it's worth, I am happy that you've both found someone who makes you happy." He smiled slightly, a bit hesitant. "Even if who you found ended up surprising the hell out of me."

Vin grinned. He stood up and offered his hand to Chris. Chris rose and reached out to grasp Vin's forearm. The then pulled the younger man into a tight hug. "You could have told me this, ya know?"

Vin chuckled as he pulled away. "Did tell ya."

Chris held out a hand to Ezra. Ezra hesitantly took it. Chris was pleased with the firm, solid handshake he received. He looked Ezra squarely in the eye. "You hurt him, and I'll make your life a living hell."

Ezra nodded seriously. "I would expect no less from you, Mr. Larabee." Chris knew Ezra was aware that it was more than a threat. It was a promise.

"What about the others?"

"What about them?" Ezra raised an eyebrow.

"Are you going to tell them, too?"
Ezra bit his lower lip and looked toward Vin. Chris clamped down hard on the urge to demand that they actually talk when they spoke to each other. He mustered his patience and waited.

"No."

"No?" Chris looked at Vin.

"No." Vin sighed. "Cowboy, we didn't really plan ta tell anyone. Might just as well wait and see if they ask."

"Why wait until they ask?" Chris figured while he was getting answers he might as well go for broke. "You do that with everything, Ezra. Wouldn't it be easier to just spit it out and be done with it."

Ezra grinned at him, eyes just a bit mischievous. "Because by the time they ask the question, they are already thinking. When one knows which question to ask, one is already half way to finding the right answer." Ezra shrugged one shoulder. "If you can not be bothered to take the time to think or to seek out the answers, why should I be obliged to provide you with information you seem to neither want nor need."

Fair enough. Chris had never really thought about it, but Ezra did have a point. JD had already made that observation earlier when he said Ezra would always answer a question. You just had to be sure to ask the right one to find out what you really wanted to know.

Ezra's expression sobered, eyes once again shuttered and unreadable. "And in this case, there is the additional concern of what will happen, Mr. Larabee, if even one of our little band proves to be less accepting of this situation than you have been. I have no desire to create discord or a permanent rift among us."

"You don't know that any of them would object." Chris felt compelled to point out.

"And you don't know, that all of them, will accept us," Ezra waved a hand toward himself, and then toward Vin. "You very nearly didn't. It is not, as you said earlier, normal."

Ezra wore a wry expression for a moment. "The dynamics of our groups has enough difficulties, it may not be wise to add yet another obstacle."

Chris had to admit Ezra might very well be right. Each of them were unique with their own personal quirks and foibles, viewpoints and attitudes. It would be impossible to predict how any one of the others might react. And it would take only one of them reacting badly to have the potential to do irreparable harm.

"Wild cards." Ezra stated firmly, evidently finding it far easier to read Chris, than Chris found reading him. "Each and every one of them." He shook his head. "It is a gamble, that at this point in time, I am simply unwilling to take."

Chris half smiled. "You, not willing to gamble?"

Ezra's lips quirked slightly. "I told you before, I abhor gambling, sir, and as such, leave nothing to chance."

Eyes that were far older than his years regarded Chris solemnly. "There is a great deal at stake here. Much could be won or lost. And until I am ready, and Vin is ready, to deal with either outcome, it is best not to put our money on the table."

Chris was reminded of something Vin said the other day. `Every game has a winner and a loser, ya'd think they could have figured that out by now. If they ain't prepared ta lose then they should know better than ta sit down at the table and ante up.' Never really thought of life as a game before, but the concept works. Can't really argue either, because I'm not sure I'm ready to deal with the fall out if one of the others gets a burr under his saddle over this.

"It's your call. I'll play this however you want." Vin looked relieved, but Chris couldn't read the Ezra's expression at all. "What will you do if they ask?"

"IF they ask, Mr. Larabee, an answer will be given." Ezra glanced at Vin briefly before looking back at Chris. "No lies. On that you have my word."

Chris nodded. "All right then. As long as this doesn't interfere with getting the job done, I'll leave it up to you how and when you decide to tell anyone else."

"Thank you, Mr. Larabee."

"I oughta thank you." Ezra looked at him quizzically. Chris laughed dryly. "First time today that I don't feel like the last one to know something."

"Amazin' what ya get when ya ask. Ain't it?" Vin looked at him, blue eyes warm with quiet amusement.

Chris rolled his eyes. Yeah. And sometimes you get more than you bargain for. Guess that just serves as a reminder to be ready for the answer if I'm gonna ask the question.

He headed for the door. "I'll see you boys later." He opened the door, and looked back of his shoulder. "Vin you've got the morning patrol."

"Figured."

"Don't be late."

"Won't be."

Chris nodded, and quietly closed the door behind him. He headed down the stairs. I think I need a drink. A stiff drink.

*******

Vin stepped over to the door, and made sure it was locked. He leaned against it for a moment, head bowed. His knees were shaking. That went better than I thought it would. A lot better.

He turned around to say as much to Ezra. Ezra was sitting on the bed staring off at nothing. "Ez?" No answer. Vin moved until he crouched in front of him. "Ezra? You with me here, pard?"

Ezra took a shuddering breath, and focused on Vin. "I'm here."

"You okay?" Vin watched Ezra carefully.

"I think so." Ezra shook himself. "That conversation was just a bit surreal, and it has taken me a moment to fully comprehend and process it."

"Surreal?" Vin raised his brows.

"Dreamlike." Ezra clarified with a small, shaky smile. "I never...expected, not even in my dreams, to have that conversation. And certainly not have it go so well."

"Ah." Vin could understand that. "Me either." He wasn't entirely sure just what he expected, but what had just happened wasn't it.

"I anticipated...violence. Was prepared for that eventuality." Ezra shook his head, green eyes a bit dazed. "I had envisioned the need to run, or at the very least to hide. This...This I was not expecting."

Ezra raised a hand to cup Vin's face. Vin could feel the fine tremors running through that connection. He knew Chris hadn't been able to tell but Ezra had been scared to death when the man asked what they would do if he told them to end their relationship. But Vin had known. He could feel it pouring off Ezra in waves the whole time he'd been sitting next to him.

Vin knew the tremors he could feel in Ezra now were the left over affects of dealing with so many emotions at once. Fear, anger, outrage, determination, and relief had all run their course in a very short time frame. He'd felt them all, just as he knew Ezra had. Vin moved so he could join Ezra on the bed.

He pulled Ezra into a gentle hug, rocking slightly. "It's okay. Ez. We're okay."

Ezra nodded his head against Vin's shoulder. "I know." He sighed. "It seems decidedly foolish to loose control now."

"Not foolish." Vin tenderly placed a kiss in Ezra's soft brown curls. "Didn't you tell me the only time to loose control is when you don't need it?"

"Yes." Ezra whispered.

"Well, there ya go then." Vin pulled Ezra closer to him. He moved so that could rest against the headboard and cradle Ezra against him. Vin was pleased to note that Ezra wasn't trembling any more. He just held him for several minutes.

"Ez, you jus' gotta remember there isn't anythin' we can't handle. Together we could take on the world. "

"Indeed." Ezra relaxed a bit more. Vin could hear the smile in his voice even if he couldn't see it. "Together we are invincible."

"Damn right." Vin nodded.

Ezra swallowed hard. "I though perhaps you would end it rather--"

"Never, Ez." Vin captured Ezra's hand, and entwined their fingers. "We're together now, and we're gonna stay that way."

"Today was not at all what I had planned." Ezra said that softly, offering it up almost as a confession, now totally relaxed, letting his weight rest completely against Vin.

"Weren't quite what I'd planned either." Vin shrugged. "But I can't really complain `bout how it all worked out."

"Nor can I."

Vin grinned. "Probably wouldn't hurt if worked on this plannin' thing a bit."

Ezra laughed lightly, and hugged Vin hard. "Yes. I think we really should focus a bit more on that, Mr. Tanner."

"Let's do it tomorrow." Vin offered. "Will that be okay with you?"

"Tomorrow will be soon enough." Ezra lifted his head, and kissed Vin softly. "Have I told you lately that I love you?"

"Not lately." Vin said with a smile.

"I love you."

"Love you too, Ez." Vin returned Ezra's kiss. For now, he was content to know that Ezra was okay. That Chris was okay with him and Ezra. The rest could wait. They'd figure it out. Just need ta get a little more of this improvising under our belts an' we'll be fine.