Vin knew his lover would be embarrassed if anyone else were to find out he regularly engaged in activities that could be described as menial labor. Often they were simple things, unlikely to garner attention, overlooked by others. Things like helping the elderly widow Sands plant her garden, or assisting the working girls when they wanted to rearrange furniture in their rooms.Ezra helped close up the saloon, including washing the glasses and cleaning the floor.He also spent a lot of time training several of the young horses at the livery. It wouldn’t be long before Yosemite had a stable full of well-schooled mounts.

When Vin pulled away, he cupped Ezra’s face with both hands. He smiled as he caressed Ezra’s cheek, trying to offer assurances with physical contact in case his words weren’t enough. “You didn’t do anything you need ta apologize for.”

Ezra looked puzzled.“Then why—“

Vin placed a finger against Ezra’s lips, again halting his words. “I was just thinking about how good you feel. How solid ya are.How ya manage ta stay that way.”

Ezra chuckled, his expression rueful. He sighed, smiling slightly. “I felt you move…felt your,” He waved a hand as though searching for the right word, “agitation. I thought, perhaps, there was some physical danger present.”

Vin pursed his lips in annoyance, brows pulling together. Chris had come around in time as far as their being together went, but his attitude toward Ezra had been changing even before that. Vin wasn’t sure how much time Nathan would need. They had been working together for a year already. He wasn’t sure if his patience would hold out for as long as Nathan might need.

He growled in frustration. “It ain’t right for him ta foist his past off on you. Ain’t like you do that ta him.”

The cardsharp hesitated for a moment. When he spoke again it was a clipped recitation of facts. Little inflection colored his voice, leaving it painfully neutral, as telling a sign of the strength of Ezra’s emotions as if the conman were shouting.

Vin sighed softly.He wanted Ezra to understand.He wasn’t dismissing Nathan’s history, or the man’s feelings outright. He just didn’t see the need for Ezra to be the only one to be accommodating and understanding.

“We all got ugliness in our past. Got things we’d rather not think on. People we’d rather not remember. Nate doesn’t have any more right to bein’ an ass than the rest of us. Even after a year, he hasn’t learned to see you, Ezra Standish, not some ghost from his past.It isn’t right.”

He held Ezra’s eyes with his own.He meant every word.As far as he was concerned a man’s past was his own. If he chose to share it, fine. If he chose not to, fine. But no one should be held responsible for another’s crime. Being wanted for a murder he hadn’t committed gave Vin a uniquely personal perspective of that situation.

Vin nibbled his way down Ezra’s neck, enjoying the small mewling sounds his lover made when he reached the point where neck and shoulder met. Vin grinned wickedly for a moment before moving to the hollow of Ezra’s throat, knowing it was a personal hot spot for his lover. Ezra arched his back trying to get even closer.

Cocks aligned, slick with pre-cum, hips began to grind against one another moving in a timeless, instinctive rhythm.Vin thought briefly about slowing down, making it last, but it just felt so damn good.Slowing down would have been like trying to stop a runaway train.

He shuddered, lost in the rising tide of pleasure, wrapping his arms around Ezra, holding him tightly.Ezra’s forehead rested on Vin’s shoulder, and the tracker could hear his harsh breathing matching his own uneven gasping rhythm. Ezra was whispering something in French between gasps, words Vin didn’t really understand, but the meaning was clear. Ezra was just as close as he was.

Vin came with a howl he knew wouldn’t be heard above the pounding rain. He was only vaguely aware of Ezra’s answering cry of completion.Both men clung to each other for several minutes trying to recover their breath, and bearings.

Vin sighed and stretched slowly, leisurely.He could feel Ezra’s hands moving in a soothing rhythm up and down his spine. He smiled slightly, thinking his lover did the same thing to settle the young horses he worked with. If it feels this good for them, ain’t no wonder why they work so well for him.//

Vin glanced toward the window.The rain continued to fall in an unrelenting downpour. He was grateful that the wind hadn’t picked up or the rain would have begun blowing into the room, soaking the floor in the process.Vin pondered the idea of getting up and closing it. He’d rather just say where he was, cuddle Ezra close, and spend the day in bed.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t really an option.For one thing, they needed to clean up a bit, or they’d end up a sticky mess. And for another, in spite of the rain and general lack of sunlight, he knew it was nearly time for him to get up. Damn. Would rather jus’ stay here in bed with Ez. Gotta remember ta not do this when I ain’t got time ta cuddle afterward.//

Reluctantly, Vin started to pull away.Ezra’s eyes opened, the question readily visible on his face. Vin kissed him lightly. “Got patrol.”

“In this weather?”Ezra glanced toward the window, both eyebrows arched upward. “Surely, even the idiotic miscreants we normally encounter have better sense than to brave such heavy precipitation.”

Vin shrugged. “Might not have ta leave town, but Chris is still expectin’ me ta show up at the jail.”

Ezra frowned but nodded his understanding.They had made a promise to Chris about not letting their relationship interfere with the job, and so far it hadn’t. Days like today, though, Vin heartily wished he’d never made such an agreement.

The gambler patted Vin’s chest.“You have a slicker, Cheri?”

Having spent most of his time in drier climates, Vin never really saw the need for a long raincoat. And when it rained he’d usually just find somewhere dry to hole up and wait out the storm.“My capote will do just fine.”

Ezra rolled his eyes.“That jacket will not be sufficient to keep you dry.” He gestured toward the closet. “Use my slicker.I will not be needing it, as I have more than enough sense to stay in out of the rain.”The last was said with a faint smirk and twinkling eye.

Vin growled at him, but it lacked any heat.He slid out of bed, searching for the hand towel Ezra usually kept nearby. He cleaned the mess they’d made off himself and Ezra, tucking his lover in when he was finished, making sure the southerner would be warm enough in his absence. For good measure he shut the window just in case the wind picked up or changed direction after he left.

Vin dressed quickly, pulling on the clothes he’d discarded the night before. He hesitated for a moment before opting to use Ezra’s slicker.Hate ta admit it, but he’s right. No way my capote is gonna keep me dry in this. ‘Specially not if Chris has me ride outta town.

Ezra’s slicker fit surprisingly well.The gambler’s build was more compact than Vin’s long, lanky frame, but his shoulders were as broad so his slicker didn’t bind or restrict Vin’s movements. The sleeves and the overall length were a hair short, but Vin didn’t care about that. It wasn’t the first time he’d made do with what was available, and it wasn’t likely to be the last. At least this way, he’d stay more or less dry.

He leaned to place a kiss on Ezra’s forehead, brushing an errant curl back as he did so. “You go back ta sleep now, ya hear?”

Heavy lidded green eyes smiled back at him.“I had planned to.”

“I’ll see ya at lunch.”

“You be careful,” Ezra ordered softly around a yawn.

“I will.”

“Love you.” That came out as a sleepy murmur.

Vin smiled warmly.“Love you too.”  

He slipped quietly out of the room, making sure the door locked behind him before heading for the back stairs.Even though it was still very early, with very few people stirring anywhere in town, Vin was careful not to be seen. The last thing he wanted was to broadcast the fact that he no longer slept in his wagon.Can’t predict how friends are gonna act, so I ain’t got a snowball’s chance in hell of knowing how the town folks would take it. And if we’re careful, then they don’t ever have ta know.

Vin eyed the heavily falling rain warily.The dirt street was already turning to mud that would likely be knee deep before the day was over.Even with Ezra’s slicker he was probably going to end up wet somewhere. With a deep sigh, he stepped out from under the porch and headed for the jail.Foul weather not withstanding, he still had a job to do.

Vin chuckled quietly to himself.Rain or no rain, I feel pretty damn good. Was a nice way ta start the day. An’ any day that starts that way can’t be all bad.

*******

JD waited nervously in the livery. He knew Vin had morning patrol. The tracker usually did. And he knew what time the other man showed up to saddle Peso.Generally speaking, no one else would be around the livery this time of day, giving him a golden opportunity to talk to Vin alone.

JD scowled at the rain.He’d been trying to work up the courage to do this for the past few days. Now that he finally knew what he wanted to say, and when to do it, the weather was conspiring to keep him from acting.

“Damn, damn, damn.”He cursed softly, pacing the length of the livery.

With the weather this ugly, Chris might decide to forgo having anyone ride patrol today. It would make sense to do so. Footing could get treacherous for a horse, risking both the animal and the rider if they went down in the wrong place, and flash floods were always possible in some areas.

He hoped that even if Chris decided against sending Vin on patrol, the tracker would stick with part of his morning routine and check on his mount. Vin was nearly as bad as Ezra when it came to doting on his horse.Chaucer and Peso are both spoiled rotten. It might pay off because I never saw one baulk no matter what Vin or Ez asked of them.//

JD just about jumped out of his skin when he felt a hand lightly slap his shoulder. “Hey, JD. What are you doin’ here?”

He spun around, hands moving toward his guns before he even realized who had hit him, or recognized the voice.“Jesus, Vin.”He punched the other man in the shoulder. He’d lost count of the number of times the tracker had startled him.“Scare a body half to death why don’t you. Would it kill you to make some noise?”

Vin’s lips quirked upward in a half smile, blue eyes twinkling. “Never know.Jus’ might.”

JD rolled his eyes.He could never tell if Vin tried to scare him or if the tracker just honestly never thought about announcing his presence. The practical joker side of the lanky Texan seemed to suggest he routinely snuck up on his friends just to see them jump. The only one he failed to startle regularly was Ezra, but then the gambler could be just as sneaky as Vin, if not more so.

Vin raised an eyebrow.“Ya still didn’t answer me JD.”

“Hunh?” JD stared, trying to recover his wayward thoughts.

Vin grinned at him.“What are ya doin’ here?Figured you’d still be in bed at this hour. ‘Specially with the rain an’ all.”

Vin’s grin faded into a look of concern.“Somethin’ wrong?”

“No.” JD answered hurriedly. “No, nothing is wrong. Well, not really.I…thing is…I just wanted to talk to you for a minute. If you’ve got time that is.”

The Texan studied him, blue eyes raking over JD with a studied care that made the younger man feel like he had no secrets.Vin nodded slowly.“Not ridin’ out today. Chris said ta jus’ forget it until the rain lets up. So, I got time now, if you want?”

JD took a deep breath and nodded.Don’t do this now I might never do it. Just gotta remember what I decided to say. I can do this.Need to do this.

Vin moved to lean against Peso’s stall door, reaching out to scratch his mount behind the ears when Peso hung his head over the stall door. He waved a hand as though offering the floor to JD. “What’s on yer mind?”

JD unconsciously squared his shoulders, bracing himself just in case. He cleared his throat, dark eyes earnest. He spoke quickly, afraid if he didn’t he’d lose his nerve.  

“I know you an’ Ezra have been together for awhile now. Reckon it’s been a few months anyway. Don’t have a problem with that. Not really any of my business.”

JD rushed on to the rest, not wanting to be sidetracked or interrupted before he had the chance to speak his piece.Dark eyes firmly held blue, not backing down. “I wanna know if you’re serious. Because I think Ez really has some deep feelings for you. Pretty sure he might even be in love with you.And if you’re just playing, having a good time and not wanting anything more, then you need to tell him that.Wouldn’t be right otherwise.Don’t want to see Ezra get hurt, and if you’re just playin’, he will eventually.”

JD didn’t really think Vin was the sort to play with another’s affections. But then there was that whole incident with Mrs. Charlotte Richmond.The tracker had intended to leave the seven for her. And while the young sheriff was relieved Vin hadn’t left, the usually unnoticed, rarely active cynical side of his nature wondered who’d been toying with whose emotions.That ‘on again, off again’ stuff won’t work with Ezra. He needs more than that. Deserves more than that. Don’t want to see him get hurt just because Vin can’t make up his mind.

“I figure someone has to stand up for Ezra.I got Buck, Josiah and Nate got each other, and we all know Chris would stand up for you.‘Bout time one o’ us stood up for him and made sure he gets treated right.”

Vin raised both eyebrows.He stood up straight, weight shifting so he was balanced on the balls of his feet. His posture wasn’t really threatening, but JD felt uneasy just the same. He forced himself to stay where he was and not back away. Doesn’t look mad, but then with Vin it’s hard to tell sometimes.

“Ya wanna maybe say all that a second time?”Vin cocked his head to one side.“Little slower.”

JD hesitated, briefly wondered if he should be worried about offending Vin. Too late for that now. Some men don’t really take well to other people knowing they’re more interested in other men than they are women.Might be ashamed.//The last thought brought JD’s chin up. Got no reason ta be ashamed. Isn’t like they are doing anything wrong…less’n he’s ashamed that I know he was with Ez.No call to be embarrassed by Ezra.Ez is a good man.He’s my friend.More than good enough for anybody…Man or woman.

“I know you and Ezra are involved.”JD stated clearly, stopping there and waiting since Vin said to go slower.

“Meanin’ what, exactly?”Vin asked calmly, eyes studying JD carefully.

JD snorted. He knows what I mean. “You two are together the same way Buck is with his ladies.Same way Nate is with Rain.”Opting for blunt, JD added, “Lovers.”

Vin nodded once, expression thoughtful.“And you know this, how?”

“I’m not blind, you know.I know enough to pay attention to what I see and hear.” JD bit out in frustration. They all think I’m some kid. That I don’t know anything. Well, except for Ezra. He treats me like I’m an adult. Always been fair with me, even when I haven’t always been fair to him.   That’s why I wanna make sure Vin isn’t careless with him. Ez is a lot more breakable than he lets on.

JD raised a hand and started counting off on his fingers. “Saw you sneaking in and out of the saloon using the back steps. Figured it was a one-time thing, until I noticed you’ve been using the back stairs regularly. Know you don’t have anything to do with the saloon girls.Only leaves one person you’d be going ta visit, and that’s Ezra.”

“I check everything on my rounds through town, including your wagon. Know you haven’t slept in it for a good two months. You take the chair next to Ezra, and you didn’t used to. Heard Mrs. Anders talking the other day ‘bout how you asked her to have pie on hand for him. You started doing with Ezra that thing you do with Chris, where you talk and don’t say a word.You watch his back in the saloon at night. When he got hurt in that brawl, you got real concerned…more than if you were just friends.You were holding him mighty close when I saw you with Ez in the clinic. And you’ve been watching him like a hawk ever since, making sure he wears the sling, rests like he’s s’posed to.”

JD shook his head, realizing he was leaving out what he’d noticed about the gambler. “And Ezra…he was downright scary when you got shot in the leg.He probably thinks I never noticed how angry he looked, how scared, but I did. He shares his scotch with you. Doesn’t call the rest of us by our first names very often, but he uses yours. He always saves candy for you. Saw you reading one o’ his books just last week. Had to be one of his…leather bound, gold leaf. Rest o’ us don’t have anything near that nice.Ezra lets you put stuff on his tab at the general store.” JD waved hand toward Vin. “Hell, you’re wearing his slicker right now!”

He took a breath, and continued in a quieter tone. “What really clinched it though, is that he lets you touch him, lets you get close.He shies away from almost everyone else, except for the kids. And he touches you. Nothing that isn’t polite and proper, but it sticks out when he does his best to keep his distance from damn near everyone else.”

“You said our being together…me and Ez…that doesn’t bother you?”

“Not so long as you aren’t going to hurt him.”JD squared his shoulders, instinctively straightening his spine in an effort to stand taller.“I mean that, Vin.He’s my friend.Not going to stand by and see him get hurt. Not if I can do somethin’ about it.”

Vin smiled brightly, blue eyes warm. “Good.”

JD regarded the older man warily.“Good?”

“Yep.” The tracker resumed his casual lean against Peso’s stall door, raising a hand to lightly scratch Peso along his lower jaw.“Ez doesn’t have too many friends.Real glad to know you are one o’ them, JD. Man should have people he can count on ta stand up for him.”

JD wasn’t sure what to make of what sounded like a compliment. Honestly, he hadn’t really known what to expect when he planned to confront Vin.JD really never got past the point of thinking through what it was he wanted to say, and why.

He knew what he hoped the outcome would be, for Vin to assure him that his relationship with Ezra was a good one.Something that was mutual, and enjoyed, and likely to last a long time. JD wanted to know that it wasn’t going to cause trouble between the seven.It’s gonna be a problem if Vin’s just fooling around. If Ezra feels as strongly for Vin as I think does, it won’t take long for that to come to a head.

JD frowned, and refocused his thoughts.“You still haven’t told me if you’re serious or not.”

Vin pursed his lips.He reached into his pocket and offered a carrot to Peso. Peso snatched it up eagerly, the loud crunching of his teeth the only sound in the livery for several minutes. Vin sighed, and nodded, apparently coming to a decision. He shoved himself away from the stall door.“Lets go talk ta Ezra.”

JD blinked. That wasn’t what he expected. “Now?”

Vin shrugged. “No time like the present.”

“But he probably isn’t awake yet.”JD argued.It wasn’t that he didn’t want to talk to Ezra; he just didn’t want to risk the gambler’s wrath.The man was infamous for being hostile when woken early.

“I know he ain’t awake.”Vin confirmed with a small nod, managing to relay with that statement and gesture the impression that he knew this firsthand, and wasn’t merely assuming Ezra would be in bed because of the early morning hour. It further confirmed what JD knew; Vin wasn’t sleeping in his wagon, but in Ezra’s room.

“I think it’d be best if you talked ta both o’ us at one time.” Vin shrugged. “Make it easier.” The tracker hesitated a moment before continuing. “Besides, me and Ez have an agreement ‘bout this sort o’ thing.”

“You have an agreement ‘bout this?”   JD raised both eyebrows, wondering when he’d lost control of the conversation, or if he’d ever really had control.

“Yep.” Vin nodded firmly once. “Agreed at the beginning, iffen someone asks about us, we talk ta whoever it is together.”

JD felt better hearing that.He wasn’t sure why exactly.But it sounded promising that Vin and Ezra had talked about being confronted. Least I know they talk. Means they’re doing more than just bumping boots.Course, I sort o’ figured that was the case when I saw Vin with Ezra’s book, and Vin making sure there was pie for Ez. Doing the little extras means you really care. Buck is mighty nice to his ladies, but I don’t ever see him doing special things for them.I think if it was just about sex, Vin and Ezra would have found a saloon girl, and not bothered with trying to make each other happy. Think so anyway. Don’t know for sure.

Vin gave Peso a final pat, and headed for the door. “You coming?”He tossed back over his shoulder as he headed back out into the rain.

It seemed the only way he was going to get an answer was to follow, so JD quickly moved to keep pace with the tracker.He sidestepped the bigger puddles, just as Vin did. JD managed to make it to the back of the saloon without getting completely soaked, but only just barely. It was an accomplishment JD thought was pretty big considering the amount of rain and mud he had to move through to get there.

He eyed the borrowed slicker Vin wore with a touch of envy. The only thing wet on Vin was his hat and boots. Wish I had me a slicker as nice as Ezra’s. Was nice of him to loan it to Vin. Being on patrol in this weather would have been awful without one.

Vin slipped silently up the stairs, leaving JD to follow. JD smirked to himself when Vin neatly avoided the fourth stair that creaked, and the loose floorboard at the top of the steps. Knew he was using these stairs. Bet he don’t even know what he just did.

He watched in confusion as Vin reached for something under his shirt. JD understood once he saw a key. He expected Vin to just use it and open the door, but to his surprise the tracker tapped lightly on the Ezra’s door first. It didn’t seem loud enough to wake someone as sound a sleeper as he believed Ezra to be.

Probably a good idea to announce ourselves first. Buck is always saying it isn’t wise to surprise a man. Not if you want to live a long time. And Ezra’s pretty damn fast with that gun of his.   Bullet holes in the door frame attest to that. Maybe I ought to knock again…louder. Don’t want to get shot.

It was too late for him to act on that thought.Vin had opened the door, and slipped in. He motioned for JD to step in behind him before he closed the door again.JD stopped just inside the door, hand well clear of his guns, not entirely surprised to see a sleep rumpled Ezra, sitting up in bed and pointing his Remington in JD’s general direction.

JD stayed still, and tried his best to look harmless. Sort of expected him to not be real happy about this. Should have told Vin it could wait.

Ezra raised one eyebrow, green eyes wary and alert despite obviously having awoken only a moment ago.Huh…guess Vin’s knock was loud enough. Maybe Ez isn’t as deep a sleeper as I thought.

“Mr. Dunne, to what do I owe this early morning visit?”

JD tipped his head toward Vin.“Vin thought it would be best for me to talk to both of you.” Realizing that what he said really didn’t explain much, JD opened is mouth to add more, but Ezra held up one hand stopping him.

“Vin?” Ezra’s attention shifted toward the former bounty hunter.

Vin looked apologetic, but not uneasy or concerned. “JD met me in the stable. Said he knew about us being together. Had some questions.Figured it was best if he talked ta both o’ us, like we agreed.”

 “Trouble?” The question was directed at Vin, but Ezra’s narrowed, sharp-eyed gaze assessed JD, making the younger man feel exposed. It was similar to the studied look he’d gotten from Vin earlier. Not for the first time did JD wished he knew how it was they did that.

Vin shook his head.“Shouldn’t be.Still need ta talk though.”

Ezra sighed heavily and nodded.He slipped his gun back into the holster hanging from the bedpost. The gambler rubbed tiredly at his eyes, hand rising to run through his sleep ruffled curls, before waving a hand toward the rocking chair.“Please, Mr. Dunne, make yourself comfortable.”

Ezra’s bare torso suggested he was naked under the covers, and JD wasn’t sure it fell within the bounds of decency to stay. “We don’t have to do this now, Ez.” JD offered, slightly uncomfortable.

Ezra smirked. “You have already forded the breech, Mr. Dunne, retreat is not an option.Even if it were, doing so would only serve to delay the inevitable.”

Ezra grabbed a second pillow and shoved it behind him, relaxing against the headboard with a yawn.“And please remove your jacket.”The gambler made a face.“You’re dripping.”

Vin had already started to slip out of Ezra’s slicker. He turned and hung it on the hook on the back of the door. With a resigned sigh, JD took off his jacket, handing to Vin to hang as well. Looks like we’re gonna do this now.

He blinked in surprise when Vin toed out of his boots, wondering if he should do the same. JD didn’t think it proper to take his shoes off in someone else’s home. And Ezra’s room was most definitely his home. The sheriff had never really spent any time in it before, and he was somewhat surprised to find it comfortable, neat, and clean. There was no disguising that most of Ezra’s visible possessions were of better quality than any the rest of their group could lay claim to, but the room didn’t make JD feel nervous the way the wealthy house his mother worked in used to.  

He regarded his boots, coated with a thick layer of mud. Keep ‘em on and I’m going to track mud everywhere. No point in pissing off Ezra by dirtying up his room.Shrugging to himself, JD toed out of his boots as well, leaving them next to Vin’s, near the door.Still feeling a bit hesitant, JD made his way to the rocking chair.

“No patrol then, Vin?”Ezra drawled softly.

“Nope.” Vin glanced toward the window from where he still stood near the door. Rain beat steadily against the glass. “Chris said to wait for the weather ta let up.”

Ezra nodded. “A most judicious decision.”

Vin smirked. “I’ll be sure ta tell ‘im ya said so.”

Ezra rolled his eyes.“As if my opinion matters to our illustrious leader.”

As JD positioned the rocker so he could face Ezra, he was struck by how normal their conversation sounded.He found it heartening that they seemed as at ease with each other in private as they did when the group was together in the saloon. The sheriff raised his eyebrows when Vin stepped forward and casually joined Ezra on the bed.He sat so he was shoulder to shoulder with the gambler, partially sharing the pillows Ezra had placed behind him.Vin reached out and captured one of Ezra’s hands, lacing their fingers together.

Ezra seemed totally unperturbed by Vin’s action.He glanced toward JD and waved his free hand toward the younger man. “I believe you had questions, Mr. Dunne.”

JD shook his head, finding the formal address wrong given their current setting. Just isn’t right for him to keep calling me ‘mister’.We are friends for crying out loud! ‘Sides, the man is in bed…naked as the day he was born. Leastwise, I think he doesn’t have anythin’ on.Not that it’s important.I mean, it doesn’t seem to bother him any to have me here and him not being, well, dressed to receive visitors.And he’s sitting there, holding Vin’s hand, like he does it every day. I’d have thought that would be more than enough to stop being so formal.

JD cleared his throat.“Ez, you think since I’m in your room…given that your, ah…look, could you please just call me JD?”

Even though Vin ducked his head, JD was sure the tracker was smiling. Ezra studied him for a moment, looking honestly surprised by JD’s request.“Very well.JD, you had questions?Something Vin felt you should discuss with both of us, I believe.’

JD nodded. He bit his lower lip trying to figure out where to start.In the livery he’d just blurted out what he wanted to say, without weighing the possible outcomes.He didn’t really want to do that again. He didn’t want to sound like a kid. Not in front of Ezra.

“Jus’ tell ‘im what you told me, JD.”Vin offered quietly, encouraging.The tracker’s trademark half-smile appeared. “Jus’ take yer time.”

JD considered that advice.Good starting point as any.And if I don’t get all rushed, I should be able to sound like an adult and not some know-nothing kid.He cleared his throat again.“I know the two o’ you are…involved. Lovers.”

“Yes, I believe Vin indicated as much when you entered.” Ezra arched one eyebrow. “You arrived at this conclusion…how?”

JD reiterated the things he told Vin earlier, albeit slower than he had before, keeping his tone neutral and even.He also added, “Vin’s got the key to your room. And you don’t seem to object to him,” JD waved a hand toward where they sat shoulder to shoulder, “making himself right at home.”

The gambler’s lips quirked upward slightly, green eyes bright with inner amusement. “Most astute, JD. I must congratulate you on your powers of observation, and deductive reasoning.”

JD flushed hearing that genuine compliment.“Geez, Ez, I’m just paying attention to what I see.”

Ezra chuckled. “Exactly.” The gambler sobered, gaze firmly fixed on JD holding his eyes.“Just so I am certain of no misunderstanding…you have no objection to Vin and I engaging in a relationship of a romantic nature?”

“I don’t have a problem with you being together.Not really any of my business.Figure it isn’t my place to interfere.“ JD sent a hard look toward Vin. “Long as Vin isn’t just playing around.”

Seeing them together…sure seem like a real couple. And I don’t honestly have too many doubts about him being serious anymore.Don’t think he’d have been so casual ‘bout inviting me here if he was just fooling around.Don’t think he’d have just made himself at home there on Ezra’s bed either. But Vin needs to know I still intend to make sure Ezra doesn’t get hurt.//

Vin nodded once, almost as though deferring to JD, accepting his position. Ezra looked from Vin to JD. He frowned.“Gentlemen, I appear to be missing something. Something rather important.”

JD shifted his attention to the gambler.“If he’s just making nice like Buck does with every woman he meets, or looking to, well, scratch an itch…I figure he owes it to you to say so. Wouldn’t be right for him to toy with your feelings that way.”

Ezra cocked his head to one side, expression thoughtful, measuring. “But you do not feel I might be doing the same thing to Vin?”

“I know you are head over heels for him.You wouldn’t hurt someone you care about. I know that.”JD never had any doubts regarding the conman’s willingness to sacrifice himself for someone else.He’d seen Ezra risk himself more than once to keep someone else out of harm’s way.JD was astonished to see a touch of color dust Ezra’s cheeks. Damn. Never thought I’d see him blush.

JD shrugged one shoulder, absentmindedly putting the rocker in motion with one foot as he did so.“But, I wasn’t so sure if Vin felt as deeply for you as you do for him. Figured that might be trouble. Usually is. Seen it happen before.”

Vin and Ezra traded a look.The tracker smiled slightly, sky blue eyes bright with undisguised amusement. “Kid sure has a different way of looking at things, don’t he?”

Ezra tipped his head.“Indeed. A decidedly refreshing point of view.”

“Kind o’ nice you ain’t the villain this time.”

Ezra chuckled, his expression warm and tender.   “Yes, it is.”

JD realized that the two older men had once again seemed to forget his presence, and he wondered what they were referring to.Ezra a villain?Says who?   He nearly gaped in amazement seeing Ezra’s expression. He’d never seen Ezra look so open before. Now don’t that just beat all. If I didn’t know he was in love before now, I would seeing him look like that at Vin.

Vin’s expression turned sly, and he bumped Ezra’s shoulder with his. “Think I make a good villain?”

“Oh without a doubt, Mr. Tanner.”Ezra winked, his voice light, teasing, southern drawl more distinctive. “A truly evil man if ever there was one.”

Vin laughed lightly.He pulled their clasped hands upward, and placed a kiss on Ezra’s knuckles. Ezra lowered his lashes, giving Vin a look that JD recognized as clearly flirtatious.

Just as he was beginning to wonder if he might have to remind them of his presence, Vin took a deep breath and tipped his head toward JD. “Nice ta know someone else is worried about ya.”

The gambler’s free hand moved in a dismissive motion. “It is not necessary.”

JD frowned at that, and so did Vin.JD was certain the tracker was thinking the same thing he was. Acts like he don’t matter. That’s just plain wrong. Ezra’s just as important as anyone else.Gotta find a way to make him see that.

Green eyes turned serious as they once again focused on JD. “While I am most gratified by your concern for my emotional well-being Mr. Dunne, I am somewhat at a loss as to why you have deemed me easier to ‘read’ than Vin.The very nature of my profession, and years of diligent practice, typically make my thoughts and emotions less manifest than most.”

JD shook his head, frustrated at losing the chance to say something to make the conman understand that he mattered.He knew he lost his chance the minute Ezra changed the subject. There would be no going back now. Ezra can be polite about it but when he don’t want to talk about something, it just isn’t going to happen.JD was also disappointed at being once again addressed by his surname again.

“JD, Ezra.” He ground out. “My name is JD.”

“My apologies.” Ezra somehow managed to nod his head in a way that suggested a bow.“Using your surname has become a habit I shall have to work at undoing.”

“S’all right.” Can’t really blame him for forgetting.Only asked him to call me JD a little bit ago.

“My question remains, JD.”The gambler persisted, clearly determined to get an answer.

JD sighed. Wish I was as good with words as Ezra is.Just have to do the best I can here. “You’re good at not showing how you feel. Most of the time your face doesn’t give away anything. But, I noticed the stuff you’ve been doing lately.”

Ezra raised both eyebrows, and made a ‘go on’ motion. JD gave him a dirty look, but figured the only way he’d really satisfy the gambler was if he kept talking. “You wouldn’t loan your books to just anyone. They are too nice, and I know they mean too much to you for that.You let Vin use your account at Potter’s store, but pitched a fit when Buck tried to use it a couple of months back.And you never save candy for the rest of us like you do for Vin.”

JD flushed when he realized his last statement came out sounding petulant, very close to a whine.Undaunted, he continued.“You take care of Peso.Hell Ez, you spend almost as much time with him as you do with Chaucer. And other than Vin, you’re the only one who can get close to the ornery pain in the ass. You share your scotch with Vin. Oh not all the time, but I’ve seen you offer it more than once to him.And you gave him the key to your room. I know you don’t trust the rest of us with your stuff.”

JD shrugged. “Probably not without good reason. I mean, Buck can be a bit like a bull in a china shop.I don’t let him in my room either.And I doubt any of the others would appreciate the quality of things you’ve got.Least not enough to treat it the way it deserves. But you don’t seem to have any worries with Vin.”

He waved a hand toward where Ezra’s slicker hung, dripping, from the back of the door. “You even loaned him your slicker. Can’t see you loaning out clothes to anyone you didn’t care about.”

Ezra chuckled quietly.He shared a telling look with Vin.“We really must do better in the future, Mr. Tanner.”   

“Don’t hafta.” Vin rolled his eyes, and snorted. “Ain’t like anyone else has noticed all the stuff JD has.Doubt anyone else even knows.”

“No one else knows!?”JD had been certain he was not the only one to have noticed something going on between Vin and Ezra.Most of the time he felt like he was the last to know about every thing.

“Chris, Buck and Nathan are the only ones, other than you, who’ve asked.” Vin said calmly, unaffected by JD’s outburst.He shrugged one shoulder.“Me and Ez sort o’ agreed that we’d wait for someone ta ask ‘fore we said anythin’. Chris figured out something was going on almost as soon as me an’ Ez got together. Buck…about a month or so after that. An’ Nathan was jus’ the other day.”

JD sat back, setting the rocker in motion again, thinking over what Vin had said. Okay… so Chris noticed stuff, and Buck, and Nate.He couldn’t help feeling a little bit smug that it sounded as if none of them had noticed, or at least hadn’t made reference to the same specific examples that JD had given.It was nice to feel as though he had one up on the older men he worked with. He frowned as he realized that each man, himself included, had been informed one at a time. Seems sort o’ like they were going about it the hard way.And why wait until someone asks?Guess I’m gonna have to ask to find that out. Only way to know something is to ask, or that’s what Ezra says.//

“Why didn’t you just tell everyone all at once and be done with it?” His tone implied that would have been the easiest and simplest thing to do.

Vin and Ezra both gave him a look that let him know he’d just asked a particularly stupid question.JD found himself hoping that it was Ezra who would answer. The gambler was more likely exercise patience and understanding.

He doesn’t make me feel like an idiot.Told me once that being naïve was something a man grew out of, but ‘idiocy is generally a life long affliction’.  And I sort of get the feeling he wouldn’t even bother explaining things to me if he thought it would be a waste of his time.

“Were it only that uncomplicated.” Ezra spoke with a trace of amusement adding color to his drawl.He shook his head slightly.“I admire your faith in your fellow man, but do not share it. You must understand, JD, that while your own reaction to our relationship does you credit, it is far from what could be considered the norm.Not everyone would be nearly so accepting as you have been.”

“Why?” JD asked, honestly curious and a bit confused.“It’s not like you are hurting anyone. And if you’re happy…that should be all there is to it.” It seemed so simple to JD.

“True.” Vin’s trademark half-smile appeared.“But people can be stupid about a lot o’ things. And this is jus’ one of them.”

Ezra nodded, seconding Vin’s statement.“Many believe firmly that physical love should be expressed only between a man and a woman.They consider a romantic intimacy between those of the same gender to be an abomination, a contagion even, to be stamped out swiftly. They do not welcome or accept the idea that love can take many forms.”

Ezra sighed, and his eyes darkened with an emotion JD couldn’t read. “The Bible makes mention of such liaisons as ours. And not in a positive light.” His expression shifted toward sardonic as he continued speaking.“Such negative references provide ample fodder for narrow-minded individuals to justify their intolerance.It would not be out of the norm for the good, ethical Christians of this town to ride us both out on a rail.I have seen that, and worse, done in the name of moral decency.”

JD grimaced when several people in town immediately came to mind.They were all outspoken, firm in their belief of what constituted right and wrong, and seemed to believe all of Four Corners was entitled to their opinions. It just caused more trouble than anything else.More often than not, the people in question were just hypocrites in JD’s opinion.He was bothered by the idea that Vin and Ezra might have lumped him with those people.

“I can see that about the town folks.Figure you’re probably right there.But…we’re friends. Right?I mean, you gotta know you coulda told me.”

“Sure we’re friends.” Vin answered immediately, easing the tightness in JD’s chest with that simple confirmation.“This ain’t about being friends, JD. Not really.”

“Vin is correct, JD.”Ezra stated quietly, green eyes unwavering when they met JD’s darker counterparts.“This situation is far from a simple matter of our being happy. It is just the sort of thing that can cause a rift between the most steadfast companions. It is difficult to predict how any of our fellow peacekeepers would have responded to being bluntly informed of our relationship. The best course of action seemed to be to wait for them to broach the subject first, and answer the questions honestly when asked.”

Okay. Think I can see that. Guess it does sort of make sense.Still don’t really understand why people would get their knickers in a knot over it.Isn’t any of their business…but, hell, even I know that’s never stopped busybody know-it-alls before.

JD was suddenly curious about how his friends had reacted. “What did Chris, Buck and Nathan have to say?”

Vin grinned. “Chris was sort o’ cool toward the idea at first.Didn’t want it ta affect our doin’ the job. But he’s warmed up since then, and he’s okay with us being together, long as Ezra don’t hurt me.”He gave Ezra a warm look, blue eyes all but giving him a visual caress. “Don’t figure you plan to.”

“Never.” Ezra’s firm response left little doubt of his intention.He shifted to rest his head on Vin’s shoulder. Vin rubbed his cheek against Ezra’s hair before he placed another soft kiss against his knuckles.

They look comfortable together.At ease.JD smiled slightly, realizing he couldn’t remember seeing either man so relaxed before.  They are good for each other.Hope Chris saw that.Sounds like he did.Not real surprised he’d be worried about Vin getting hurt, what with them being best friends and all.Wonder if it was Chris that made Ezra out to be a villain?

 “Buck was jus’ happy as hell to see us happy. Got no worries at all with him.” The tracker gave JD a smile that was full of delighted amazement. He had obviously been very pleased and surprised with Buck’s reaction.

“A romantic at heart, our Mr. Wilmington.”Ezra chuckled.“He seems firmly entrenched in the idea that love in any form is a good thing.”

JD felt both eyebrows climb toward his hairline.Buck is so into the ladies, I would have thought he’d have been dumbfounded for sure by the idea of two men together. Hunh.Kinda wished I’d been there for that conversation.

Ezra’s eyes sparkled as he studied JD.“You begin to understand how difficult predicting anyone’s reaction can be. Even for someone you think you know rather well.”

“Yeah, I can see that.”JD admitted ruefully. Buck was his best friend, and he still never would have guessed that his reaction to Vin and Ezra being together would be so accepting. Should have figured it though. Buck’s the most loyal guy I know. He’d just want them to be happy. He wants everybody to be happy.

“What about Nate?”JD asked.

Vin pursed his lips, and looked annoyed.Ezra sighed, and squeezed Vin’s hand. JD couldn’t tell if Ezra was offering reassurance or restraining Vin. He wondered if maybe he shouldn’t have asked.Before he had a chance to retract the question, Vin was speaking again.

“Nate.” Vin growled, disgust readily apparent in his voice.Ezra raised his head from the tracker’s shoulder to give him a reproving look. Vin met his look with a fierce one of his own.

“What’s the matter?”JD was suddenly worried.He hoped Nathan hadn’t done something stupid.  

“During the course of our conversation with Mr. Jackson, he said some things Vin found…objectionable.”Vin scowled but remained silent, letting Ezra continue with his explanation. “He did not exactly welcome us with open arms.But to be fair, his response was really no worse than Mr. Larabee’s initial reaction.”At that Vin snorted, and again Ezra sent him a quelling look. “Mr. Jackson has no firm objections, with the proviso that our relationship not affect the job.”

JD knew there had to be more to it than that.Oh, he was sure that what Ezra had just said was essentially the truth. He’d learned some time ago that the gambler really didn’t lie.Might not lie, but he does leave stuff out. And Nathan had to have said or done something to piss Vin off.Mentally JD shrugged.If they don’t want to go into it, probably best to let it go. Pushing never works with either o’ them. Just have to keep my eyes open in the future.   

Vin took a deep breath, and let it out slowly.JD could almost see his earlier agitation drain away, leaving him calm and relaxed again.“Way I see it…counting you,” he tipped his head toward JD, “we got three clearly in our corner.And we got one almost there, but still need to work on that some. Damn sight better than we expected.”

JD nodded slowly, putting the rocker in motion again. He opted to let the subject of Nathan drop. No point in upsetting Vin anymore. Don’t want him mad at me. Vin said they were working on it. If I keep my eyes open, and my mouth shut, I might be able to help.

He cleared his throat.“So, that leaves Josiah as the only one who doesn’t know?”

“Mr. Sanchez has not yet inquired.” Ezra confirmed.

“You think, maybe, you should tell him?Seems wrong to keep him in the dark.” It didn’t seem right to JD that Josiah should be left out. It would feel like they were keeping a secret from the former preacher, keeping him out of the loop. The sheriff baulked at the idea of isolating any one member, however marginally.He still felt that it was when they were together that they were invincible.   

Ezra frowned, and shared a look with Vin.JD watched, fascinated by how the two men could seem to be carrying on an entire conversation while not saying a word. Gotta learn how to do that. Would come in real handy.

“We will consider enlightening Josiah.Once we have figured out exactly how to do so.” Ezra stated carefully after a moment, his lips quirked upward in wry humor. “Our relationship is not exactly the sort of phenomenon one can easily work into normal, everyday conversation. Nor is it an issue that should be broached without significant forethought.Particularly given how important the outcome may be. ”

“Hunh?”

“You must consider what might occur if Mr. Sanchez voices disapproval, and the possible outcome of such a response.”Ezra restated.“We have been decidedly lucky so far. Of the four of you who know about us,” Ezra raised the hand still linked with Vin’s adding emphasis to the ‘us’, “we have gotten both tentative, and immediate unconditional acceptance. However, only one vote of dissention, one voice of unreserved disapproval, may well prove to be all it takes to create an irreparable rift among our little troupe.”

JD looked at Ezra in confusion.What the hell does that mean?Some days I really wish he would just speak English.

“Ez and me would leave, JD.”Vin spelled it out.“Can’t work as a team if we got someone disgusted or upset ‘bout me and Ez being together.Would be too dangerous.Only choice would be ta split up, or to leave. Since we are gonna be stayin’ together, there really ain’t much choice.”Vin smiled sadly, but there was no mistaking the determination in his voice, or its echoing sentiment visible on Ezra’s face.

JD paled slightly hearing that.On one hand he was gratified to hear just how serious they were. But on the other, he hadn’t really thought of what might happen if Josiah proved to be unable to accept them, even conditionally. He didn’t want to contemplate what might happen if Josiah were outright hostile. That could be ugly. Really ugly.Shit.

Ezra held up his free hand in a staying gesture, keeping JD from speaking, even though he really didn’t have plans to say anything. He honestly didn’t know what to say.

“There is every possibility that Mr. Sanchez will prove to be just as open and accepting as yourself and Mr. Wilmington have been.Or that he may offer the same sort of conditional acceptance as Mr. Larabee and Mr. Jackson.It pays to be prepared for the worst, but there is nothing wrong in hoping for the best at the same time.Your initial thought of bringing all of our coworkers…friends,” Ezra hesitated a moment over the word, “into the fold, so to speak, may be well founded. Keeping secrets from only one member would likely not do much for group cohesion either.”

The gambler sighed, and rubbed tiredly at his eyes. “But for the moment, we ask that you leave the decision of when to inform Mr. Sanchez, and how, up to us. And while we have no specific objections to you conversing with the others regarding what you’ve learned today, we would also ask that you refrain from openly discussing it might where you might be overheard.”

“Didn’t plan to say anything.”   JD rolled his eyes, annoyed that Ezra felt the need to even tell him that. If I’d plan to do that, I’d have already done it.//“I know better than to talk about other people’s business.”

“Know you do, kid.”Vin grinned, and winked at him.“Just want to make sure is all.Iffn it makes ya feel better we pretty much told the others ta keep their mouths shut too.”

JD chuckled. That did make him feel better. He took a breath, suddenly feeling tired.Man, it’s been a busy morning.Got a lot to think about.//

When Ezra belatedly covered a yawn with his hand, JD knew it was probably time to leave. He’d gotten his questions answered, and was comfortable with where things stood. Well, comfortable might be too strong a word, since I just got a whole new worry, but at least I know Vin and Ezra love each other.And that most of the others know it too. ‘Bout as good as I can really expect for the moment.

It was well before the hour that Ezra normally rose, and the gambler was obviously more than ready to go back to sleep.No point in wearing out my welcome. Was pretty lucky he didn’t shoot me when I walked in…so no point in pushing it any further. ‘Sides, the man’s tired. He levered himself up and out of the rocker.

“I should probably get going.”JD moved to where he’d left is boots. Moving with his usual speed, he slipped into his boots and shrugged into his still dripping jacket, once more ready to brave the storm that had continued unabated while they talked.

“JD?”

“Yeah, Ez?” JD turned, his hand on the doorknob.

“It is gratifying to know that you were sufficiently concerned with my well being to confront Vin. It was the action of a friend, and I would be remiss if I did not show due consideration.”Ezra spoke softly, expression sober and honest. “It means a great deal that you would act on my behalf, as does your willingness to accept Vin and I being together. Thank you.”JD grinned, inordinately pleased with that declaration. He hadn’t been expecting it.He raised two fingers to the brim of his hat, mimicking Ezra’s trademark salute.

“You’re welcome, Ez.” He tipped his head toward Vin, and got a small nod in return. He slipped out the door leaving the lovers alone.The young sheriff slipped down the back stairs. He hesitated under the porch, thinking over where he wanted to go before stepping back into the rain. Need a place to think for a bit. With a grin, JD headed back to the livery. Least with the weather, I know it will be quiet there.

*******

Nettie Wells glared at the drips falling from her ceiling.The storm continued unabated, just as it had since she woke earlier, oblivious to her ire.She fumed silently, knowing the steady drips would continue until the rain ceased.It was only luck that she had enough large containers to put under the leaks, catching the rain before it could soak the floor as well.

Damn roof. Won’t be able to fix it until it quits raining.And I have to go to town for supplies. Don’t have enough on hand to fix it. Will have ta wait a bit for the road to dry out otherwise wagon will just get bogged down.Only good thing about livin’ in the desert country…ground dries out mighty damn fast.

She sighed, unhappy with the delay, and the idea of having to confront one of her only fears, heights.She’d known for months that the roof was in need of repair, but had put it off, unwilling to climb a ladder and brave being off the ground until absolutely necessary.The steady drips and steadily filling pots were a clear sign it was definitely necessary.

Nettie pursed her lips in annoyance.She sat back in her chair and sipped her coffee, resigned to the fact that she was just going to have to come to terms with the way things were. Being angry at the weather is about as useful as tits on a boar. No point in wastin’ energy over something I can’t change.//

She began making a list of the things she needed. Might as well get everything in one trip.// Casey would appreciate the chance to go to town. Her niece was far more enamored of Four Corners than Nettie was.She had long since lost any interest in much of what went on in town. In her opinion, most of the people who lived there were only a little better than a lost cause, and a damn nuisance more often than not.Still, she understood the nature of progress, and figured the town and its growing population were just a part of it. As long as no one bothered her, Nettie really had no complaints.

She grinned to herself, realizing the trip might not be a complete waste of her time. Well now, I was planning a trip ta town anyway.Been meaning to head in ever since Vin stopped by a few days ago. Kind o’ wonder how the love knot turned out. And this might give me a chance ta find out who the boy has been sparkin’ on while I’m there.

She nodded, suddenly more pleased with the situation. If she played her cards right she might just be able to convince Vin to help with the roof.   Not that she couldn’t handle the job by herself. She could, but some help would be appreciated.  ’Sides, the damn fool doesn’t seem to be at all bothered by heights. Might be able ta keep my feet on the ground where they belong if I let him crawl around up there.

Nettie finished her coffee, and her list.She’d tell Casey they were going to town once the rain stopped. No point in sayin’ anything right now. Girl will just stare out the window waiting, and then bug me the minute it lets up ta git going. Better of with her doing her chores and then surprise her.

Nettie glanced out the window.From the looks of it, they might not leave until tomorrow anyway. She sighed and began emptying the pots again.

*******

The rain stopped early in the afternoon, leaving the streets a muddy mess. Chris had cancelled the afternoon patrol as well, knowing that it could be until tomorrow before things would dry enough to make the usual roads and trails easily passable. He lit a cheroot and slouched comfortably in his chair in front of the saloon.He’d moved to this spot after lunch, waiting for the rain to stop, and keeping watch as he normally did.He mused silently that today would likely prove to be more interesting than most.

He watched, with carefully hidden amusement, as the townspeople began making their way through the muddy streets.The lean gunslinger found it entertaining to observe normally staid people mincing, jumping, and all but dancing in futile efforts to avoid getting wet or bogged down with mud.Don’t know why they don’t just stay inside if they didn’t want to get dirty or wet. Streets will be completely dry in a couple o’ hours.

It took every ounce of control Chris had at his disposal not to burst out laughing when the bank manager, Mr. Lovitt, slipped and landed face first into a huge puddle.   Chris thought the portly man looked a like a pig on a good day, and he reflected with heavily restrained humor, that today was definitely not a good day for Lovitt.The mud now covering him from head to toe only enhanced the swine-like image. No.Defintely not a good day for Mr. Lovitt.

Chris swallowed his laughter, struggling not to give in to it. His struggle was made harder by the guffaws he could hear coming from the other side of the street. He really shouldn’t laugh at one of the town’s more respected citizens.No matter how much he wanted to.

Vin slid into the chair next to him.He cocked his head to the side, casually regarding the muddy banker who struggled to his feet, cursing loudly as he did so. Chris lost his battle for control when the tracker sent a look his way, blue eyes bright with amusement, grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. The dark clad leader snickered, which grew into a chuckle.He cleared his throat and tried to send a look of reprimand toward the tracker, not wanting to be caught making fun of the banker’s predicament.

He knew he’d failed when Vin just looked back innocently, and whispered, “Suuuie. Here piggy, piggy.”

Chris lost it. He laughed out loud. The harsh look Lovitt sent in his direction just made him laugh harder.Chris found the fat man’s attempt at intimidation even more amusing than his being covered in mud.With a disdainful sniff the banker gathered what little dignity he had left and walked away, clearly doing his best to ignore the laughter coming from both sides of the street that followed in his wake.

Chris wiped the tears from his eyes, struggling to get his breath back. He hadn’t laughed that hard in years.  It felt good, real good. God. I should do that more often.

He pointed a finger at Vin.“You are an evil man, Vin Tanner.”

Vin just grinned.“Ya know,” he drawled nonchalantly, “you ain’t the first person ta tell me that.”

Chris raised an eyebrow.“You might want to think on that.Could be we’re right.”

Vin chuckled quietly.“Don’t bother me none.”

No, I don’t imagine that it does. Chris sat back in his chair, getting comfortable again. He pursed his lips thoughtfully. When they all met up for lunch something had been off. It was subtle, but it was there. He relit his cigar, and puffed thoughtfully for a moment.

“You have a good morning with Ez?”Chris asked, casting a sly glance toward his friend. He knew the tracker had spent the entire morning in Ezra’s room, both men emerging only in time for lunch. Might be there was something wrong there. Don’t think so, but it’s hard ta tell with those two. Could be missing a leg and they’d be doing their best to hide it.Don’t imagine their relationship is any different when it comes ta keeping stuff to themselves.

Vin’s lips curled in his usual half-smile, immediately easing Chris’ worry. Blue eyes twinkled. “Was right nice way to spend the morning. Meant ta thank you for not sending me out in the rain.Ez said it was a judicious decision on yer part.” The Texan smirked.“Told him I’d let ya know what he said.”

Chris snorted. He didn’t care if the gambler thought he made a wise choice.And he made a point of ignoring the warm feeling the compliment, even if made in jest, had engendered.Although, he might not be comfortable admitting he cared what Ezra thought of his decision, he was more than willing to acknowledge the fact that by giving Vin the morning off he had done something nice for the lovers. It was a way to make amends for being so slow to accept their relationship.He still remembered how nice it was to spend a rainy day in bed with Sarah, even if all they did was cuddle together.

No reason Vin and Ezra shouldn’t have a chance to experience a lazy morning together.No reason at all.All right already…enough of that sappy stuff. You need to focus here, Larabee. Things are fine between Vin and Ezra, so it must be something else.

 Vin slouched in his chair, pushing with his feet so that the chair tilted precariously on two legs.It was something of a mystery how he could balance like that. Ezra had once made a bet on how long Vin could stay in that position. Made a tidy sum of money as I recall.

“Ez teaching?” He asked quietly, thinking that might be the reason for the tension he noticed at lunch. The gambler usually spent a few hours after lunch with several of the children in town, but Chris wasn’t sure if the lessons might not have been called off due to the weather. Standish dotes on those kids.Might be he was out o’ sorts not being able to see them today.

Vin simply nodded in answer to his question.Chris resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Fine.I’ll do it your way.I’ll just come right out and ask.

“Why don’t you fill me in on whatever it is that happened this morning?”

Vin raised an eyebrow.“What makes ya think somethin’ happened?”

This time Chris did roll his eyes.“Give.”He commanded, having used up what little patience he possessed.

“JD knows.”

Chris frowned. He didn’t need to ask what it was JD knew.The lean gunslinger was fairly certain Vin and Ezra hadn’t changed their position on waiting until they were asked before telling anyone about their relationship.He was somewhat surprised that the young sheriff was wise enough in the ways of the world to even ask the right question. Just goes to show that some days he’s a lot sharper than I realize.

Chris turned to look directly at Vin, a worried frown appearing. “Good or bad?”

Vin slouched even further into his chair, easily managing not to disturb the chair’s two-legged stance as he did so.“Good.Real good.”The tracker smiled softly.“Said he was okay with us being together long as I didn’t hurt Ezra.”

Chris felt both eyebrows head upward.Vin hurt Ezra…hunh.Wonder what made him think Vin would do that? And if he was okay with it then what the hell was going on at lunch?//

Chris glared at Vin knowing there had to be more. And the little shit is going to make me ask for it. Some days he is just as difficult as Standish.

“What else?” Chris demanded, his voice soft, but unyielding.

The lanky Texan sighed, his expression resigned as his gaze shifted back toward the street. “Nathan.”

The gunslinger considered that for a moment.He knew Nathan was aware of Vin and Ezra’s relationship. And he knew that the healer had been somewhat hesitant in his acceptance.Can’t really find fault with the man for that when I did the same thing myself. Still, if he’s making trouble now after saying he wouldn’t have a problem with them, I’ll be putting a stop to that bullshit right now.

“What did he do?”Chris kept his tone neutral, not wanting to jump to any conclusions too soon. As far as Chris knew the healer hadn’t treated Vin or Ezra any differently, but it was always possible he’d missed something.

“Didn’t do anything.”Vin took a deep breath.“Was some o’ the stuff he said a few days ago…when Ez got hurt and he found out ‘bout us.”  The tracker somehow managed to execute a graceful shrug in spite of his precariously balanced chair and severe slouch. “Ez has been avoidin’ him since then. An’ I think it was ‘bout time Nate came ta terms with us. Unconditionally.” Sky blue eyes met Chris’ darker counterparts. “Like you did.”

Chris hesitated a moment, thinking.He nodded slowly, reviewing the past few days, and realized that Ezra had been avoiding Nathan.Not hiding exactly, but somehow managing to simply not be where the other man was. The only time the two were in the same room was when necessity demanded it.

Wonder if he did that with me when I was being such an ass about him and Vin?  Chris mentally slapped himself.I KNOW he was.What’s that saying…discretion is the better part of valor. Fits.Ezra knows better’n most of us how to pick his battles.

The lean gunslinger frowned slightly. But they left me alone for nearly a month waiting for me ta get my head out of my ass. It’s only been a few days with Nathan. And Vin is the one pushing it. Odd.He seemed willing to give me all the time I needed. Wonder why he’s not willing to let it go with Nathan? Best to ask what they got planned. Might be the only warning I get.

“So how do you plan ta get him to come to terms with you and Ez?”

“Don’t really know yet.”Vin shrugged again.“Told Ez the first thing we was gonna do is stop avoidin’ him.”

Chris nodded once. When I think on it…Vin might not have pushed me, but he didn’t hide from me either. Didn’t have a choice but to come to terms with him being with Ezra, because even a blind man could see they have something special.   

Vin sighed quietly, eyes troubled.“Nate ain’t gonna ever really see Ez for who he is if he never sees him.”

Chris raised one eyebrow, confused by Vin’s statement. “What do you mean see Ez?”

“When he started askin’ us questions…”Vin scowled, and shook his head.“The first thing he did was ta…insinuate…Ezra was like the slave owners he knew.Like his master’s brother who just used young Negro men as his play toys.”

The way Vin sounded out each syllable of ‘insinuate’, almost feeling out the word, told Chris it was a fairly new word for the tracker. But he was not at all surprised by Vin’s pronouncing it correctly, if slowly.Nor was he surprised by the fact that Vin clearly understood the meaning. Ezra appeared to be influencing the tracker in more ways than one.

What did surprise him was the reference to Nathan’s slave days. The healer seldom talked much about that time in his life. At least not specific details. Well he obviously went into detail with Vin and Ezra. And Ezra’s accent, the way he carries himself, how he dresses, his attitude at times…I could see where that might remind Nate of his former owner, and how it might be a problem.

“Ez ain’t like that.Never was.High time Nate saw him for who he is.” Vin stated firmly, giving Chris a narrow-eyed look, leaving no doubt that the tracker knew exactly where Chris’ thoughts had been a second ago.

Unfazed, Chris cocked his head to one side.   “Seem to remember him being a bit hesitant ta ride with Nate.”

“Weren’t cause o’ the color o’ Nate’s skin.”Vin glared at him, reminding Chris to tread lightly when it came to assuming things about the gambler.Much of what he’d assumed in the past had been way off the mark.

“An’ that was a year ago, Cowboy.”Vin’s gaze was unwavering, weighing Chris with his eyes, letting the older man know he wouldn’t back down from his defense of his lover and friend. “The man has proved himself since then.More’n once.He shouldn’t have to keep doin’ it.”

Chris tipped his head, conceding that Vin did have a point. Was a time when I might have been pigheaded enough to argue with him, but Vin’s right. Standish has proven himself. Took me way too long to see that. Wasn’t fair to Ezra then, and it wouldn’t be fair now.Can see why Vin’s bent outta shape over Nate doing it. Least I understand better why he’s pushing the issue now.

Chris raised a hand, silently offering his apology, admitting he was in the wrong. Vin nodded, signaling his acceptance. The tracker took a breath and let it out in a heavy sigh, straightening slightly from his slouched pose.

“Ez is worried he’s making Nate uncomfortable.That he’s reminded Nate of things he’d rather forget. So he don’t wanna push too hard. Me…I don’t care ‘bout Nate being uncomfortable. Don’t think Ezra should be the only one ta bend. Ez ain’t Nate’s old master, or his master’s brother. He can’t keep tarring Ez with the same brush.”

The lanky man shifted almost imperceptibly in his seat, the move bringing him into a more face to face position with Chris, while still maintaining the chair’s gravity defying two-legged stance.“We agreed ta stop avoidin’ him, but I don’t think Ez is real keen on the idea.”

Well that would certainly explain some of the tension I felt between Vin and Ezra.Not a major disagreement, but enough to make them uneasy for a bit. Good to know they can work stuff like this out without either of them flying off the handle. Sort o’ surprises me that they managed to come to a decision at all given how opposite their views on it are.

“And then there’s Josiah.”

Chris started, caught completely off guard by Vin’s mentioning the big peacekeeper. What the hells does Josiah have to do with this? Shit, one morning off and problems are popping up like daisies in spring.Maybe I should have sent Vin out in the rain. Not without a feeling of reluctance, Chris warily asked, “What about Josiah?”

Vin shrugged one shoulder, seemingly totally unaware of the reaction his almost casual reference to the ex-preacher had caused.“He’s the only one who don’t know ‘bout me and Ezra. JD pointed out that it might not be such a good idea ta leave him in the dark.And Ez sort o’ agrees with him.Thinks ‘Siah might see it as us keeping secrets from him. We ain’t, but it will sort o’ look that way if he’s the only one who don’t know.”

The sharpshooter shook his head, brows pulling together. “But, I’m not sure we should be rockin’ the boat. Weren’t all that long ago that Ez damn near shot Josiah ‘cause he didn’t know when ta back off. They’ve been on an even keel now for the past few months. Getting along real good. An’ I’d really hate ta see that get messed up.”

Chris rubbed at one temple, reminding himself to just keep his mouth shut in the future and stay out of other people’s business.Too late for that now.I already asked.In for a penny, in for a pound.

He sighed. “Anything else I should know about?”

“Ya don’t think what I jus’ mentioned is enough?” Vin smirked, giving him a knowing look.

“Oh no, that’s plenty.”Chris glared at him.The impertinent little whelp.God…Now I sound like Ezra.  “I just want to make sure there isn’t some surprise lurking around the corner that I should know about.”

“If there is, it ain’t mine or Ezra’s, Cowboy.”

Chris accepted that.Vin might make him work for the answers, but his friend wouldn’t deliberately keep anything from Chris that he thought he should know about. The Texan had made a point of watching out for his friends.It wasn’t likely that would change any time soon.

Chris pursed his lips.“So you aren’t going to avoid Nate.Can see that as a good place to start.” He hoped that would be enough. Realizing it took Vin getting shot, and Ezra’s reaction to that to open his own eyes, Chris sent a silent prayer heavenward that Nathan would not need anything nearly so drastic. He made a mental note to keep an eye on the situation. He might not have any suggestions for how to make Nathan see the light, but the least he could do was make sure things didn’t get out of hand.

“What about Josiah?You have a starting point there?”

“Not yet.” Vin shook his head, expression rueful.“Gotta work on that one a bit.It’ll be Ez that figures that one out. He’s good at conundrums.”

Chris raised an eyebrow.“Conundrum?”

“Yeah…ya know…problems, or I guess puzzle would be more accurate.” Vin grinned, clearly delighted with having one up on Chris.“Ezra told me ‘fore we went to lunch that he’d be trying to improvise a solution to addressing the conundrum of how to inform Josiah that were a couple.”

Chris closed his eyes, and pinched the bridge of his nose. He should have known better than to ask.  He sighed. He’d had such high hopes for today being a stress free day.   He opened his eyes to ask, “You really had to tell me all this?”

The tracker shrugged.“Since ya asked, I figured I might as well tell ya all of it.”

Chris nodded. “You let me know if there is anything I can do to help.”

By way of an answer, Vin raised two fingers to the brim of his hat, giving Chris Ezra’s trademark salute.Chris rolled his eyes, thinking Vin and Ezra spending so much time together might not be a good thing.Vin grinned, blue eyes warm with amusement, easily reading Chris’ thoughts. Not for the first time did Chris come to the conclusion that having someone able to read him so well could be a real pain in the ass.

The smart remark Chris had been ready to say went unspoken when Buck sauntered up the boardwalk.The tall Midwesterner leaned casually against a support post, tipping back his hat.“Boys.”

“Buck,” Chris greeted him.Vin just nodded his hello in his usual reticent fashion.

Buck began scraping his boots against the boardwalk, removing the mud that had accumulated in his brief walk through town.The lanky man looked up from under his brows. “Understand the kid was askin’ you questions this morning, Vin.”

“Yep.”

Buck smirked, pride evident in his voice when he spoke. “Kid is full of surprises, ain’t he?”

“That he is.” Vin chuckled. “That he is.”

Chris found himself nodding in agreement.JD had certainly come a long way in the past year. He was no longer a greenhorn. But then, to be fair, the boy obviously knew more than Chris realized if he’d managed to figure out, on his own, that Vin and Ezra were a couple.

Buck sighed, and shook his head slightly, his expression turning to one of bemusement. “Now if I could just get the boy to start courting Casey proper like. I mean, honestly, they been dancing ‘round each other for nearly a year.Jus’ ain’t natural.I tell ya.It just ain’t.”

Chris and Vin shared a look.Buck seemed to have a one-track mind at times. Although, to be fair, he’s usually doing his best ta look out for his friends. Just unfortunate for JD that Buck’s way of looking out for him, in this case, might well introduce him to the business end of Nettie’s shotgun.

“Might be you’d have better luck working the other end o’ things, Bucklin. But I kinda doubt it.” Vin’s familiar half smile appeared. He pointed up the street with his chin when Buck raised both eyebrows at him.Just coming into town were Nettie and Casey Welles.

“Huh.” Buck frowned. “Didn’t think the roads would be dry enough for a wagon yet.”

Chris decided against pointing out that the roads were obviously passable or Nettie wouldn’t be here.Some days his long-term friend was just as prone to the same blatantly obvious comments that he ragged on JD for making. Chris shook his head, having decided years ago not to let it bother him.

Wonder what brings Nettie ta town. She doesn’t come in very often. Could be trouble at the ranch. Hope not.

Nettie stopped her wagon directly in front of them. She set the brake before turning to greet them, her wide brimmed hat flopping slightly as she moved.“Afternoon boys.”

Casey seconded her greeting with her usual youthful enthusiasm, reminding Chris of JD. Nothing seemed to dampen either one’s spirits for very long.He knew it was only Nettie’s firm grip on Casey’s arm that kept the teenager from jumping off the wagon and disappearing like a startled jackrabbit. The young girl, unlike her older guardian, delighted in spending time in town and always enjoyed seeing the sites, such as they were.   Chris didn’t understand the appeal, but then, he saw the town nearly everyday.And as the leader of the band of peacekeepers that protected Four Corners, he tended to regard anything new or interesting in town with some suspicion, rather than eagerness.Such things were usually the harbinger of trouble. 

“Afternoon, Miz Nettie.Casey.”Vin returned their greetings, straightening in his chair. Chris hid a smile thinking Nettie was the only person Vin ever made the effort to sit up straight for.  Chris tipped his hat to them, acknowledging their hellos.  

“Hello ladies.” Buck smiled broadly. “What brings you two lovelies ta town on a miserable day like this?”

“My roof.” Nettie frowned severely, her displeasure easy to read.

“Your roof?” Buck cocked his head to one side, clearly surprised by her answer, and the vehemence of it.

“Yes.” Nettie grimaced. “It’s leaking like a sieve. Need supplies ta fix it.” Her blue eyes shifted to Vin. “Have a feeling it might just be worse than it looks. And I might be needing a little help to get it fixed proper.”

It wasn’t exactly an order, nor was she really asking for his assistance. It was more like she was simply stating a fact, and waiting to see how Vin would react to it. The lanky Texan didn’t hesitate to volunteer. “Be glad ta help ya out, Miz Nettie. No problem at all.”

Chris was glad she hadn’t looked at him.Vin’s a good choice.He doesn’t mind scrabbling around like a mountain goat. Chris didn’t mind heights, but he preferred those mother nature had created to the ones man made. It just seemed entirely unnatural to him to be crawling around on the outside of a building.

Nettie nodded, accepting Vin’s offer.“Figure I’d get supplies today.Maybe spend the night here in town.Roads weren’t bad, but that was with an empty wagon.” She shook her head slightly. “Might be tough ta get through with a full load weighing it down.”

She sent a sly look toward her niece.“Sides, I think Casey might enjoy a chance ta spend some time in town.” Casey smiled broadly, her pleasure at spending time in town written all over her face.

“Understand that gambling fancy man is teaching some of the young ‘uns in town.” It was a statement, but it came out almost as a question.Chris wondered if she was going to voice some level of disapproval. She wouldn’t be the first person to voice an opinion that the gambler was not a fit person to act as a teacher.

Hope not. I know he does a good job with the kids. Damn shame some people in this town can’t see that. I know Vin won’t put up with her bad mouthing Ezra.No matter how much he likes Nettie, he loves Ezra. I know Ezra would come first with him.

“Yes, Ma’am.” Buck was quick to answer her. Chris was pretty sure his old friend was thinking the same thing he was. “Ezra teaches up ta eight kids or so now. Spends a couple of hours in the afternoon with ‘em.” The tall cowboy smiled warmly, but his eyes were measuring.“Pretty good at it too.Kids seem ta really enjoy their lessons.”

The older woman nodded.“Think he could put together some lessons for Casey?”

Casey regarded her aunt with surprise.“Oh, Aunt Nettie, I don’t need—“

“Hush, child.” Nettie gave her a stern look. “It wouldn’t hurt for you ta get a bit more schooling.An education is important. And there isn’t anyone else ‘round here that likely ta know as much as that fancy man does. Man has more words than anyone else I’ve ever met, that’s fer damn sure.So I’m pretty sure he can teach you a thing or two.”

Vin’s eyes sparkled, obviously pleased with Nettie’s statement regarding Ezra.  “Only way ta know if Ez is willing is ta ask him.”Vin offered quietly.“But I don’t think Ez would mind workin’ up some stuff for Casey.”

He slid out of his chair, getting to his feet with his usual easy grace. “Fact is, Ez is at the mercantile teaching now.  Mrs. Potter lets him use the storeroom.Since yer headed over that way ta get supplies, it would be a good time ta ask.” He smiled shyly. “I’ll load yer stuff while ya talk to Ez. Save ya some time, in case ya got other things ta do while yer in town.”

There was no way Mrs. Potter would be able to actually handle the materials Nettie would need.Since she had not yet been able to hire someone to tote the larger, heavier items, she relied on her customers’ ability to see to those things. So far, it hadn’t been a problem. However, Chris knew Nettie wouldn’t be able to do it herself.Not that she would ever admit to that fact. Vin’s offer let her save face, offering her a simple solution.

Nettie nodded once, accepting his offer and thanking Vin with the gesture at the same time. She reached for the brake, but before releasing it, she pinned Buck and Chris with a firm look.“Expect one o’ you boys to lend a hand as well.”

Chris could never quite figure out how she could make him feel like an errant schoolboy with no more than a look and a comment.It was unnerving, and just a bit annoying. He sighed, and sent a mildly exasperated look toward Buck. The cowboy waggled his eyebrows at Chris.He obviously knew how Nettie had just made him feel, and was amused by it.

“I’ll help him, Nettie.”Chris responded, proud of the fact that he didn’t sound as put upon as he felt. If nothing else, I won’t have to put up with Buck laughing at me.

Nettie smiled tightly, and clucked to her horse, urging him forward. Buck smirked at Chris, eyes all but dancing, as he slid into the chair Vin had recently vacated. “You boys run along an’ have fun. I’ll jus’ stay here and keep an eye on things.”

Chris snorted and moved to join Vin after he cuffed Buck none too lightly on the shoulder. Buck just grinned in response and made a shooing motion with his hand, making a show of getting comfortable as he did it.Together Chris and Vin made their way toward the mercantile, walking in step down the boardwalk.

Nettie parked her wagon in front of the store, casually securing the reins before stepping down with an easy movement that made Chris wonder, and not for the first time, just how old she really was.Casey scrambled down with more speed and impatience than grace. Chris was again reminded of JD. Two of them will make an interesting couple when they finally get serious. Can just see them running hither and yon.Lord, now that makes me tired just thinking about it. Can only hope they grow out of all that energy by then.

Nettie and Casey entered the store a step or two ahead of Chris and Vin. Nettie called out for Mrs. Potter as she entered. “Gloria? You about?”

Mrs. Potter stepped out from where she’d been straightening the bolts of cloth. “Nettie Welles. My, what a pleasant surprise. I expected the rain to keep most people out of town for at least a day.”Mrs. Potter smiled warmly.Her eyes shifted toward Chris and Vin. “I’ll be with you gentlemen as soon as I’ve taken care of Mrs. Welles.” Mrs. Potter turned her attention back to Nettie.“Now then, what can I help you with today?”

“Understand Standish uses yer storeroom to do some teaching. Was hopin’ he was still about. Wanted ta I talk ta him about lessons for Casey here.” She patted her niece on the shoulder, ignoring the teenager’s put-upon sigh with practiced ease.

Mrs. Potter’s smile brightened, not at all offended by Nettie’s brusque speech, and clearly pleased that Nettie wanted to add her niece to the ranks of those Ezra taught. Chris wasn’t surprised since it was Mrs. Potter who had instigated the whole teaching thing. Wonder if she’s even still working on finding a real teacher. Seems mighty pleased with Ezra. Might be she’s decided that he’s more than good enough for Cece and Josh, and there’s no need for someone else. Chris smiled slightly.Well, Ezra is good at it.Although, I suppose there are other children that could do with a bit of education too.And they’re parents aren’t going to let them get it from Ezra. Damn shame that. Have to remember to check with Mrs. Potter and see if she’s still looking or not.

“Oh, yes, Mr. Standish uses a space here as a classroom nearly every afternoon.” Mrs. Potter glanced toward the clock that hung behind the counter.“He should be finishing in a few minutes.” Her smile turned conspiratorial. “He really should have been done half an hour ago, but the children never seem to want to wrap their lessons up so things usually run a bit long.”

Nettie pulled a list from her jacket pocket and handed it over to her. “Was sort of hoping you could fill my order, Gloria, while me and Casey talk to Standish.” She tipped her head toward Vin and Chris.“The boys were good enough ta see about loading it for me.”

“Certainly.” Mrs. Potter scanned the list, before glancing back up toward Nettie.“No trouble at all.I’ll see to getting this together for you.”

“Thank you.” The homesteader pointed toward the back room.“If it’s all right, we’ll just head on back and talk ta the man?”

“Oh, by all means, please do.”Mrs. Potter waved her hand in an inviting gesture as she moved toward another part of the store, already focused on filling Nettie’s order.

Just as Nettie stepped toward the storeroom, all but dragging her reluctant niece with her, the door opened.Several young children scrambled out the way children always seemed wont to do. They didn’t even slow down as they apologized or excused themselves, dodging around Nettie the same way a river flows around a large boulder.Chris smiled at the sight.Kids only seem to have one speed…gallop. Never seem to see any of them walk anywhere if they can help it.

Nettie and Casey stepped inside, and out of sight.Vin moved to stand closer to the door, positioning himself so that he was near enough to hear what was being said.Chris wagged a finger at him, silently reprimanding the tracker for eavesdropping.Vin just gave him a dirty look in return.

Chris would have liked to take up a position similar to Vin’s. He was curious about what the gambler would say when confronted by the cantankerous old woman, but Mrs. Potter had other ideas. “Mr. Larabee, would you please take these nails to Nettie’s wagon?”She pointed to a box of nails, and made a check mark on the list Nettie had given her, already moving on to the next item, not even waiting to see if he would comply.

Chris sighed silently, and picked up the box, heading toward the wagon outside. Won’t do any good to argue with her.Next time, I’ll make Buck do this. He grinned thinking about how he was going to enjoy seeing his old friend squirm a bit.  Buck might have a way with the ladies, but I’m pretty damn sure that animal magnetism he claims to have won’t work on Nettie or Mrs. Potter.

He passed Vin on his way back in. The sharpshooter was carrying two boxes full of shingles, and didn’t look happy about not being able to follow the conversation between Ezra and Nettie.Chris just shook his head, and commented quietly. “Ain’t like he can’t handle her.”

“I know that, Cowboy.”Vin responded, his voice also low.“Just wanted ta make sure things went okay. Can’t do that if I’m not there ta hear what’s going on.”

Chris could understand that.  He reflected that in a way it was probably similar to Sarah meeting his mother.That had been a nerve-wracking experience. All he’d wanted was for everything to go well, and to make a good impression.It had been much the same when he met Sarah’s mother. Of course, he’d never really measured up in her father’s eyes, but that was a whole different issue.

Even though Nettie didn’t know about Vin and Ezra, Chris could empathize with the younger man’s apprehension.It was only natural that the tracker would want things between his lover, and sometime surrogate mother, to go well. Chris patted Vin on the shoulder, trying to offer physical reassurance since his words didn’t seem to have much effect.

Vin half-smiled, and jerked his head back toward the door. “Ya better go see what else she’s got ready for ya.”

Chris nodded. He stepped back inside the store to see what Mrs. Potter had waiting for him. Stepping closer to the counter, he could make out Ezra’s southern drawl coming clearly from the storeroom. Chris could hear the smile in Ezra’s voice even though he couldn’t see the conman.

“It would be no trouble, my dear lady.No trouble at all.If you have a moment, I would like to attempt to gauge the level of Miss Casey’s knowledge.That way I could better ascertain an appropriate curriculum for her.”

“Curriculum?” That was Casey’s voice. Her tone was an interesting mix of curiosity and apprehension.

“A course of study.”Ezra’s voice again, sounding matter-of-fact. Chris recognized the tone was the same one the conman used whenever he explained his five-dollar words to JD or Vin. He was amazed how at ease that tone of voice made people, ensuring that they didn’t feel stupid about asking for an explanation.

Ezra continued speaking.“Since you are a few years older than the other children, an individual schedule tailored to meet your needs is really what is called for.”

“Why?” Casey’s voice again, this time merely curious. “Can’t I just join in with the other kids?”

“I do not believe that would be a viable option in your case, Miss Casey. Many of the other students are likely to be far behind you, predominantly because they are so much younger than you. And there is no point in rehashing information you are already cognizant of.Doing so would simply be a waste of your time.”

Chris found it interesting to note that Ezra was speaking to Casey as though she were an adult, not just a child.Hunh…never noticed before, but I’ll bet he does that with all the kids. Doesn’t talk down to them or treat them different than he would anyone else.

“And there is your location to consider.”

“My location?”

“Certainly. Although, Mrs. Welles has not said so, I presume you will not be able to attend class here in Four Corners regularly.A course of study that would allow you to progress independent of daily attention is probably for the best.”

Chris could picture Ezra cocking one eyebrow, and looking askance at Nettie, seeking confirmation.He didn’t get to hear Nettie’s or Casey’s reply to that because Mrs. Potter was once more directing him to tote roofing materials outside. Least Ezra doesn’t sound angry, insulted, or out of sorts. If anything, he sounds pleased. And if Nettie were pissed, I’m pretty sure she’d be saying something.So it must be going all right.At least so far anyway.

Chris pursed his lips, thinking about what he’d just heard.  Unbidden, what Vin had said earlier also came to mind. He smiled to himself. Nettie had unwittingly provided a golden opportunity.

Vin said he and Ezra agreed to stop avoiding Nathan. Said he wanted a chance for Nathan to really ‘see’ Ezra.What they really need is a chance to spend some time together. I’ll just send Nate and Ezra along with Vin when he rides out tomorrow to help Nettie fix her roof. Doubt Ezra will have much ta do with fixing the roof, since he hates work and all.And Nate still wants him to take it easy on that shoulder. Was only a couple o’ days ago he got stabbed. But he can spend some time teaching Casey while he’s out there, and Nate will be able ta see Vin and Ezra interact.//

Vin noticed his smile, and raised an eyebrow in question. Chris made a ‘later’ motion with his hand, and gestured for Vin to go back into the store to get the next load. He knew that Vin would be grilling Ezra the minute they had a moment alone together.Chris wanted to know how everything turned out between Ezra, Nettie and Casey, before he suggested his idea to Vin.

The trick would be getting Vin to share with him what Ezra had to say. Chris shook his head, realizing that might not be so easy. It was hard enough to get Vin to say much of anything on a good day.And it wasn’t going to be just getting the story from Vin, but also Vin’s ability to get it from Ezra.Vin said Ezra never lied to him, and while Chris was willing to concede that might be true, it didn’t guarantee that the gambler would tell him everything. Especially if something between him and Nettie did not go well.Vin’s fondness for the old woman was well known. Ezra would likely remain silent rather than say anything that might put Vin in an awkward position of having to choose sides.

Chris grimaced, knowing the conman had a tendency to believe that it was better for him to bear the brunt of another’s displeasure rather than cause Vin any discomfort. He was not immune to the irony of realizing just how different his attitude toward Ezra was now from what it had been.He’d made a lot of progress toward seeing the real Ezra Standish much the way Vin felt Nathan needed to.  

Chris sighed. He suspected that while the gambler firmly believed Vin loved him, Ezra was probably not entirely convinced that he came first with the tracker.Hardly surprising he’d have doubts, what with a mother like Maude. Shamed ta admit that I didn’t help there either. Acted like he was less important than the other boys, that he couldn’t be trusted, and was a chore to put up with. Was only recently I started ta treat him the way I do the rest, started acting like he was a friend.

Chris decided an alternative plan might be in order. His best bet would be to overhear as much of Ezra’s conversation as possible.Then he would know firsthand what had gone on and how to best approach the situation, be able see if his idea for sending Nathan out with them out to Nettie’s was going to be a viable option. Unfortunately, Mrs. Potter had other ideas.

She kept both Vin and Chris busy running back and forth, more or less continuously occupied with loading the wagon.Even taking nearly twice as long as he needed for each trip, Chris only caught snatches of the conversation he really wanted to hear. He tried to make sense of what little he heard, working on putting together a picture with the small details he managed to glean.

“…naturally a little brushing up on the intricacies of mathematics may be needed…”Ezra’s voice, still warm and encouraging.Chris figured they were still talking about subjects for Casey to study. He decided that was a positive sign.At least they are still talking about him teaching her. Will still work for sending him out with Vin tomorrow. Have to see if sending Nate along is still a good idea.

Chris heard Nettie’s voice on his way back out.“Fancy man, you think you can…”She sounded as if she were challenging Ezra, but not aggressively so. He couldn’t decide what that meant, but at least no voices were raise in anger yet, nor had anyone stormed out.

“…attention should be paid to the classics of literature, as well as some of the more modern works.”Ezra again, his accent making his voice easily discernable. “Although, I would prefer you not read those dime novels young Mr. Dunne favors.They really have very little in the way of redeeming value.” The derision in Ezra’s last statement made Chris smile slightly.The gambler was well known of his low regard of JD’s favorite reading material.

At that point Ezra, Nettie and Casey must have moved further into the storeroom, because their voices became muffled, less distinct. Chris didn’t get the chance to hear anything else sustentative, making him curse under his breath. He bit his lip to keep from laughing when he realized Vin had been doing the exact same thing he had; taking his time about loading the wagon, and cussing under his breath.

 Wonder what he heard?Probably about as much as I did.Maybe we can compare notes.Mrs. Potter probably wonders what the hell is wrong with the two of us. Must be the slowest load she’s ever seen put together.If I’d have known they were gonna take so long, I’d have hustled this along so I could have hung out near the door and heard more.

He consoled himself with the knowledge that even if he didn’t hear all the specifics of their conversation, he did at least get the gist of it. And Chris was fairly certain that he knew enough to feel confident his plan would work.All he needed now was confirmation from Vin, after he talked to Ezra. Just to be sure.

He’d talk to Nathan at dinner tonight.That part could be squared away quickly and easily. The healer wouldn’t question his being ordered to help work on the roof.If Chris worded it right, he just might get the man to volunteer. I can’t believe I’m actually thinking this. Maybe Vin isn’t the only one Ezra’s having an effect on.//

*******

Ezra woke slowly, enjoying the luxury of being able to do so.Much of his life had necessitated waking with only an instant’s notice, ready to fight or flee.He delighted in being able to take his time in rejoining the rest of humanity, reconnecting slowly with the world he’d left behind in favor of resting his body and mind.He fully intended to indulge himself in this infrequently experienced pleasure for as long as possible.

            He breathed deeply, letting it out in a quiet, contented sigh.This was his favorite moment of the day. Everything was right with the world. He was warm, and completely comfortable. There was no pressing urge to be anywhere or do anything. And the best part was he could feel Vin curled up behind him, holding him close.

            Ezra smiled. It had been Vin who’d convinced him going to bed early would be a good thing.Not that sleeping had really been the reason he’d agreed. When Vin offered to make it worth his while, eyes giving him a come hither look, Ezra was quick to see the merit in leaving the saloon earlier than he usually did.It didn’t really bother him that his lover had an ulterior motive. Vin had indeed made good on his offer to make it worth Ezra’s while, so he wasn’t going to complain.

            Ezra stretched slightly, and burrowed deeper into Vin’s arms, still not yet ready to give up his comfortable spot and face the day.He could feel the muscle twinges and faint aches that only good loving could bring about.His whole body sang with that ‘I got mine’ feeling. Until getting together with Vin, it was not a feeling he could honestly claim much familiarity with.

No complaints from me with how the evening turned out.None what so ever.May just have to look into this whole ‘early to bed’ theory. Might just be worth doing more often. But only if Vin is interested in a repeat performance.I shall have to endeavor to make it worth HIS while.

Ezra sighed softly.He knew his time was growing short.He wasn’t going to be able to wallow much longer. Vin was a perpetual early riser. His lover simply wasn’t the sort to lie in bed for an indefinite period of time.And while not a morning person by inclination, Ezra could get up before the sun rose if he felt it was warranted.

It is unfortunate that the agenda decided upon at dinner definitely warrants rising early. Pity.Much nicer to simply stay here.Ah well, it was nice while it lasted. I have grown spoiled.There was a time when I would not have had even this much. I really should not allow myself to get used to this. Mother would likely tell me becoming accustomed to such a condition is a shortcoming of monumental proportions. Ezra, my boy, that will be enough thoughts about Mother for today.//

Ezra forced himself to focus on the upcoming day. The plan had been to get an early start tomorrow. Or rather, Ezra mentally corrected himself, this morning.He hadn’t really been surprised when Chris suggested that he go with Vin when the tracker went out to assist Nettie with her roof repairs. Ezra suspected that the gunslinger was still trying to make amends for his perceived wrong by giving him and Vin every opportunity to spend time together.

Honestly, I don’t know why he feels he did anything wrong.So he took some time to come to terms with Vin and I being together. That is hardly a crime. I’d rather he took his time than have decided immediately we were not permitted to be together. And if he misjudged the whole situation initially, well, he isn’t the first person to do so.And I rather doubt he will be the last. He managed to see his error. So by all rights, there is no reason for him to feel guilty, or the need to make amends.

Ezra frowned somewhat, brows furrowing in deliberation. If Chris had planned for them to be able to spend more time together, then why had he worked so hard at getting Nathan to go along? Perhaps there was more to this than he realized.He wondered if Vin had said something to Chris regarding Nathan. The conman knew that his lover frequently sought counsel with his best friend, and he would not be surprised to learn that Vin had discussed the situation with Chris.

The gambler was somewhat surprised by how devious their leader could be. It was obvious to him, although probably not to Nathan, that Chris was working hard at dinner last night to coerce the healer into going along.The gunslinger managed it with a skill and finesse that Ezra would not have credited him with.

I never would have thought him capable of being subtle.Which I suppose is a personal shortcoming. I really need to remember that the man is far more devious than he appears.He may be plain spoken and straightforward most of the time, but by no means all of the time.I was rather impressed with how well he worked his mark.

Ezra was equally impressed with Chris’ deft handling of Josiah. He had seen that the big man was ready to volunteer his skills, more than willing to assist with the repairs when Nettie’s situation became the topic of discussion.Obviously the gunslinger had seen the same thing, because Chris quickly assigned him the task of riding with Buck. He wanted them to check on other outlying ranches and see if they had suffered any setbacks related to the storm. Chris, for his part, would pass through those areas known to be prone to flash flooding.He wanted to look for damage to the roads, and search for any drowned livestock that some of the more hotheaded local ranchers might be quick to claim were stolen.   JD would stay in town and keep an eye on things there.

“Hey there.” Vin’s voice, soft and a little raspy, intruded on his thoughts.

Ezra smiled, opened his eyes, and turned his head to greet his lover. “Hello, Cheri. Sleep well?”

Vin’s lips quirked in his usual half smile, one arm pulling Ezra even closer. “Ya really need ta ask?” He tilted his head to kiss Ezra lightly on the lips. “”You sleep well?”

Ezra smiled warmly, green eyes bright.“Very, mon coeur.”

Vin nodded, clearly pleased with his answer.“Then what are you doing awake at this hour?”

            “You did say you wanted an early start today.”Ezra answered, expression completely innocent.

            “Uh-hunh.” Vin raised both eyebrows. “Don’t seem to remember that makin’ much difference whenever Chris said he wanted ta start early.”

            Ezra chuckled quietly, one hand caressing Vin’s chest, more because he simply loved being able to do so than from any desire to ignite passion.“Yes, well, he does not offer the same inducement that you do.”

            “Inducement, eh?That what yer calling it now.”Vin laughed, and hugged Ezra to him. Ezra returned the hug, enjoying the sound of Vin’s laughter, and his warm, hard body against his own.

The tracker pulled away and scowled at him, laughing blue eyes belying his fierce expression. “He better not try ta induce you inta anything the way I do.Or anyone else for that matter.Ya hear me?”

            Years of practice, and an innate attention to detail, made it easy for Ezra to discern the nuances in Vin’s voice.Beneath the good humor, and mock seriousness, he could make out the faint tones of jealousy and concern.He raised a hand to caress Vin’s cheek, green eyes meeting blue directly. He wanted his lover to have no doubts.

“I hear you.” Ezra responded, his voice soft but sincere.“No one but you, Cheri.Never anyone but you.”I really cannot fathom how he could ever think anyone else could compare to him. He is a rare treasure the likes of which I have never before encountered.//

Vin nodded, satisfied with Ezra’s answer.He glanced toward the window.The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon, faint rays of light adding a rosy hue to the sky. Vin sighed regretfully. “S’pose we ought ta get out o’ bed.”

Ezra kissed the hollow of Vin’s throat.He would like to disagree, but knew that really wasn’t an option. “Mrs. Welles will probably be rising shortly, if she hasn’t already done so.”

“Yeah.” Vin agreed with a soft sigh. “Nettie ain’t one ta waste the day.”

Ezra figured the old woman probably rose every day at the crack of dawn whether she needed to or not.It was a concept he simply couldn’t comprehend. In his opinion the whole sunrise thing was overrated. He much preferred watching it set. Ah well, variety is the spice of life. Or so I’ve been told.

Vin slid out of bed, and offered his hand to Ezra. It was a courtesy gesture, both men knowing he didn’t need help getting to his feet.The gambler smiled, and took the proffered hand, graciously allowing his lover to pull him easily to a standing position. Vin pulled him in close for another hug, holding him close for a moment before reluctantly stepping away.

Ezra moved to get dressed while Vin did the same. The gambler gave his closet thoughtful consideration before selecting the day’s apparel.Instead of his usual finery, he opted for a simple, but well made homespun white shirt, no vest, black pants and a plain brown jacket. While he really had no intention of actually assisting with repairs to Nettie’s roof, it probably wouldn’t hurt to dress in an outfit that he didn’t object to being damaged.

The others might believe him to be an overdressed popinjay with little or no sense when it came to dressing in a sensible fashion but that was not, nor had it ever been the case. He’d run too many cons, and been forced to blend in on too many occasions not to realize that a wardrobe for all situations was a necessity. His mother had drummed into him that appearances were everything.And while he was smart enough to realize her advice was not completely accurate, he also knew she wasn’t entirely wrong. 

Ezra regarded his reflection in the mirror for a moment. Clothes may not make the man, but they certainly create a man for other people to see.Dress like a gentlemen and people assume you are one. Dress like a saddle tramp and they never think you might be anything else.

Ezra was so used to wearing the love knot pendant Vin made for him, he failed to notice that the open collar of his shirt left it visible. His usual ruffled shirt, vest and jacket had always obscured it from view.He only checked to be certain it was still secure.

It was sufficiently early that neither man worried about being seen as they headed downstairs together.It was unlikely that the saloon would have any customers. And if anyone were to ask, Vin could easily say that he’d gone up to wake Ezra, justifying his presence easily. Most of the town probably knew that they were supposed to be leaving early to help Nettie with repairs. The gambler silently laid odds on, if anyone did ask, how many would fail to notice that Vin’s supposed entrance into his abode was not greeted with the usual warning shot.

Vin taped him lightly on the arm as they left the saloon. “How’s the shoulder?”

Ezra rotated the joint in question, taking care to keep the motion smooth and to hide the twinge it responded with.His shoulder was healing nicely.In a few days even the faint twinge he’d felt would no longer be there. “It’s fine.”

Sharp eyes studied him, demanding honesty.“You need that sling Nate keeps saying you should be wearing?”

Ezra rolled his eyes.Nathan is always insisting on restraints of one kind or another. Being able to use both hands with equal dexterity does not mean I appreciate having use of one restricted. I detest confinement. Besides, the sling is hardly required now.

“That is not necessary.”He grinned, dimples and gold tooth both putting in an appearance. “Besides, it will be you who will be undertaking strenuous physical labor.I will merely be passing the time with Miss Casey. Use of my shoulder is not required in helping the young woman to expand her base of knowledge.”

Vin smiled back at him.He cocked his head to one side.Ezra knew he was studying the partially healed scalp wound that he’d sustained the same time he’d been stabbed.Nathan had removed the stitches yesterday. The bruising had faded, leaving the faint pink scar readily visible.Ezra wasn’t worried about it.He knew the scar would fade in time, just like all the others his body sported in various places.

“I’m fine, Cheri.”Ezra spoke softly.“Honestly.”

Vin huffed, and waved a hand in a meaningless gesture. “I know.I know.It’s just—“

Ezra cocked one eyebrow, his expression enough to stop Vin. “I’m not made out of glass, Mr. Tanner.” His voice dipped to a husky whisper, and he tilted his head just enough so that he could cast a flirtatious look from under his lashes.“Or did last night fail to convince you of that? Perhaps a repeat performance is in order. Hmmm?”

Vin swallowed hard, pupils dilating in response to Ezra’s voice and suggestion, just as the gambler knew they would.The tracker took a deep, shuddering breath. “Yeah…yeah.Okay.”

“Okay what?”

“Yer not made of glass.And a repeat performance might jus’ be in order.” Vin grinned wickedly. “Wouldn’t want forget just how solid…hard…ya are.”

Ezra laughed out loud.He raised two fingers to the brim of his hat in his trademark salute. “Shall we see about breaking our fast then? Some fortification for the day is probably in order.”He let his eyes roam over his lover’s lean form before he winked lasciviously at Vin.“And most definitely for this evening.”

The blush that warmed Vin’s cheeks made Ezra smile wider.  It was one of those delightful paradoxes that made up the man. He could engage in some of the most incredible, mind-blowing sex Ezra had ever had the good fortune to experience, and yet still blushed at the mere suggestion of it.

They strolled in a leisurely fashion toward the restaurant. Ezra never really cared for breakfast. It wasn’t a meal he was usually awake to indulge in.  Generally speaking, he didn’t have much appetite early in the morning. Nor did he like the heavy, fatty foods that were the predominant fare.For most of his life, Ezra was what some called a dainty eater. He usually didn’t eat much at one sitting, and he hated the bloated, over-full feeling that came with a large, heavy meal. 

The gambler considered lunch the most important meal of the day and it was then that he consumed the most.When he did eat breakfast it was usually little more than coffee, and toast or a few strips of bacon.Lately though, when in town and awake for breakfast, he hoped for a large piece of Mrs. Anders’ cornbread.He liked nothing better for breakfast than hot cornbread drizzled with honey. Ezra had complimented Mrs. Anders on the quality of the culinary delicacy she was able to create. He was most gratified that she seemed inclined to regularly serve it.

He and Vin made their way past the closed and shuttered doors of town. At this early hour only the restaurant was open for business.Both men unconsciously noted that the town appeared to be in order, nothing out of place or amiss.

Vin opened the door.He waved a hand in a polite, elegant gesture that would not have been out of place in the antebellum South Ezra knew in his childhood, inviting the gambler to enter before him.The tracker grinned.Ezra smiled and bowed slightly, playing along.

“Why thank you, Mr. Tanner.”

“My pleasure, Mr. Standish.”

A quick glance around the room revealed Nettie had indeed risen with the sun. She appeared to be comfortably ensconced at the same table the seven usually claimed for their own. Ezra led the way over to her.

Because he loved to tease the old woman, Ezra removed his hat and bowed to her in an exaggerated courtesy.“May we join you, Madam?”

Nettie rolled her eyes at his manner, but Ezra could easily make out the humor in her cornflower blue eyes.She gruffly pointed toward a chair with her fork. “Sit down, Fancy Man.” Her eyes shifted to Vin, warming in obvious welcome. “You too, boy.”

They took their usual seats, waiting for the waitress, Emily Kazinski, to come take their order. The young woman and her family were recent immigrants to Four Corners. Mrs. Anders had hired her a few months ago, and had not yet had reason to regret it.

“What can I get for you gentlemen today?”Emily asked, her voice softly accented by a touch of the old country she inherited from her parents.

“Coffee, if you would be so kind, Miss Kazinski.And a piece of Mrs. Anders’ cornbread, assuming of course that gastronomic delight is available this fine morning.”

Emily smiled at him.“For you Mr. Standish, I’m sure Mrs. Anders has some cornbread on hand. She mentioned making some special because she thought you might be in this morning.”

Ezra flushed slightly, embarrassed that someone might have gone done something nice just for him.He wasn’t used to it.“Please relay my deepest feelings of gratitude.”

Emily tipped her head in acknowledgement.“And you, Mr. Tanner, what will you be having for breakfast today?”

“Fried taters, bacon, fried eggs, and some o’ that bread Mrs. Anders had on hand yesterday iffen she still has some.Oh, and a cup o’ black coffee.”

“Might as well bring a pot.”Nettie raised her own cup indicating she’d like another as well.

Emily nodded. She didn’t need to write either order down.It was not as they had asked for anything complicated or terribly difficult.But Ezra had noted that the girl had a very good memory, and no matter how busy the restaurant was she seldom made a mistake even without a notepad.

“I’ll be back with your coffee in a moment.”She left, heading back to the kitchen.

“If I may be so bold, Mrs. Wells, where is Miss Casey this morning?” Ezra cocked his head to one side.“I would have expected her to join you.”

Nettie sighed, and sat back in her chair, sipping the remainder of her coffee. “She’s fussing with her hair and her clothes. Will likely be awhile for she gets it all to suit her.”

The old woman shook her head.“Been awhile since I felt the need ta try and impress a man, but she seems hell bent on making sure JD notices her.” Nettie’s lips pursed, annoyance marking her countenance. “Not like he hasn’t already seen her before.Just plain foolishness.”

Ezra smiled slightly, tipping his head slightly to hide it. Casey must at times find the age gulf between herself and her guardian a trial at times.And Mr. Dunne will have his work cut out for him with Nettie Welles as his in-law.He knew the fiery old woman was not nearly as put out as she would have them believe, but he wondered if his young comrade would be equally adept at reading her.Probably not.Will make for some interesting times between them, I’m sure.

Nettie’s sharp eyes studied him.At first, he thought she was silently reprimanding him for his earlier smile. It wouldn’t be the first time he made the mistake of forgetting to suppress that subtle display of humor, or had not managed to successfully hide it completely. But her gaze narrowed in speculation, and then shifted toward Vin. Her expression seemed to harden.

Ezra felt a frisson of unease. He was missing something, of that he was certain, but he didn’t know what. He glanced toward his lover seeking reassurance, and answers.Vin met Nettie’s look, raising his chin in a gesture that was almost defiant, his sky blue eyes unflinchingly meeting hers. That did nothing to ease Ezra’s worry.

He rapidly reviewed everything that had happened since they’d entered seeking anything he might have done wrong.He was mystified as to what he might have done to upset the old woman, and cause what seemed to be some sort of rift between her and Vin. Ah hell.This is why I avoid getting up early. Things going wrong after noon do not seem quite so insurmountable. The day is already half over and I will have the opportunity to start anew that much sooner.

Nettie’s gaze shifted back toward him, her expression mild. “Mighty nice pendant yer wearing, Fancy Man. Looks like a love knot if I’m not mistaken.”

Ezra’s hand rose immediately to the hollow of his throat. He cursed mentally with a vehemence he’d never use aloud when his fingers felt the beloved symbol of Vin’s affection. He carefully kept his face neutral, green eyes shuttered giving away nothing.

“It is an exquisite piece.”Ezra tipped his head as though he were simply acknowledging her earlier compliment.“And yes, it is a love knot.”He’d already come to the conclusion that lying was not an option in this case.

Nettie smirked slightly.Ezra got the distinct impression his answer had somehow caused him to raise a notch or two in her estimation, although he wasn’t sure why. The situation reminded him of playing a high stakes poker game.He had already placed his bet; the next ante would be hers.

Nettie’s attention returned to Vin.“Looks like you figured out how to make a nice one.” Her voice held a note of pride. “Always figured you were a quick study. Well done.”

Ezra took a slow breath completely caught off guard by that statement but managing not to show it.Nettie knew about Vin’s efforts to construct my love knot? He chose to ignore that fact for the moment, focusing on her voice and mannerisms. What was more important was did she know Vin was making it for him.And even more imperative, will she find Vin’s choice of me as the recipient of his token to be unacceptable?

Ezra’s eyes narrowed.Out of habit he flexed his right arm, feeling the derringer rig, checking his weapons to be certain he was prepared for whatever came. It is one thing if she voices disparaging opinions of me. It will be quite another matter entirely if she belittles Vin.If that cantankerous old crone says one thing to hurt him, I’ll will make damn sure she regrets it.Ezra mentally slapped himself for thinking that. A true gentleman would never have even considered violence against a woman.

The proper, gentlemanly course of action would be to bow out, to do whatever was required to not create an irreparable rift between Vin and Nettie. Ezra knew how important Nettie was to Vin. And how important Vin was to her. She showed far more concern for him than Ezra’s own mother had ever deigned to show for him. It wouldn’t be right for that relationship to be damaged because of him.

Ezra opened his mouth to speak, but closed it with a snap when Emily appeared carrying a pot of coffee, and two cups.It would have been impossible for the girl to miss the almost palpable tension that now engulfed their table.To her credit she merely filled their cups, ignoring the strained silence. Ezra wondered if she were astute enough on her own to realize that tension involving any of the seven peacekeepers of this town was to be avoided at all cost, or if Mrs. Anders had filled her in.

“Your orders will be up shortly.”Emily softly offered before quickly disappearing once more into the kitchen.

Nettie cradled her cup of coffee.She cocked her head to one side, studying Ezra. “Yer not the man I expected him ta take be sparking on.”

And just how did she know he was interested in a man? For that matter, when did she know, and why was she not bothered by him being attracted to a member of the same gender? Is there someone else she’d rather he were involved with? Someone she would, no doubt, approve of more so than myself.

Ezra’s jaw tightened imperceptibly.He tried to rein in his runaway thoughts. They were not helping him deal with the situation. He felt Vin’s hand on his thigh, but ignored it for the moment, choosing to keep his focus on Nettie.

“And whom, pray tell, were you expecting?”Ezra could hear his tone taking a measured and precise cadence, subtly revealing his emotional upheaval, but it was too late to fix it.

“Don’t get yer dander up, Fancy Man.”Nettie shrugged casually.“Meant no insult ta you.”Ezra got the uncomfortable feeling her sharp eyes were seeing more than he meant for her to; more than even he knew he was giving away.

“All the boy told me was he had someone he wanted to make a gift for.” She smirked, eyes flicking to Vin for a moment before commenting in a clearly fond tone, “Boy can’t lie ta save his life. So even though he didn’t tell me who, he did have ta tell me it was a man when I called him on it.”

“She was okay with it, Ez.”Vin offered quietly.“Weren’t offended or upset about two men being together that way.” The tracker’s hand tightened once on Ezra’s thigh, offering a physical reassurance to vocal. Green eyes turned to meet blue.

Vin sighed. His expression and tone both became apologetic.“I wanted to give ya somethin’ special. Somethin’ that would be right ta give to a man. But…See the thing is…I wasn’t makin’ much headway on my own.Know I shoulda jus’ come to you…but, I thought if I worded it the right way, I could ask Nettie.Didn’t think I’d have ta tell her who.” Vin bit is lip nervously. “But you know I ain’t good with…subterfuge.”

The tracker had stumbled over the last word, but Ezra still felt a faint flush of pride in hearing his lover correctly utilize vocabulary he’d learned from him. Ezra’s hand moved to wrap around the one Vin had placed on his thigh earlier. He wove their fingers together, squeezing Vin’s hand once. He wasn’t angry, not really. More like he’d been caught off guard, a condition that he generally reacted badly to, his unease often being misread as hostility or umbrage.

“But you did not tell her it was me?” Ezra asked softly seeking clarification.

“No.” Vin’s answer was firm, blue eyes unwavering.“Wouldn’t have been right.We agreed to do stuff like that together. Just told her that I’d have ta ask him first ‘fore I told her any more.Never really got a chance ta talk to you…what with everythin’ else that went on in town the last few days.Meant to, but it sort o’ slipped my mind.”

Ezra nodded his understanding.He didn’t doubt Vin’s honesty.The Texan truly was a lousy liar.And in some ways, Ezra mentally lumped Nettie in with Chris. She was a natural choice for his lover to speak to when seeking advice and guidance; someone the tracker trusted implicitly. So Ezra really wasn’t upset that Vin had revealed, at least in part, their secret. He was more concerned with Nettie’s reaction to finding out he was the man Vin had constructed the love knot for.

After their rocky start, he had made a lot of headway in the past year toward creating an amiable relationship with the homesteader. There was a lot of good-natured verbal sparring between them, but little real hostility anymore. Her recent request of his services to teach Casey a reflection of the fact they were on good terms.But the question remains; Does she think me a suitable companion for Vin?

Ezra’s gaze shifted back to Nettie.The gambler wanted no misunderstanding; this was too important. Ezra steeled himself to ask the question he didn’t really want the answer to, but needed just the same. Best to be sure that I heard what Vin said correctly. Which is as good a place to start as any, I suppose. Courage, Ezra.

“Vin said you had no objection to his being involved with a hypothetical male lover.”He raised an eyebrow askance.“Is this true?”

She cocked her head to one side, eyes studying them both. The old woman squared her shoulders, and finally fixing an intent look on Ezra.“Like I told Vin…I found out long ‘fore either o’ you were outta short pants that love comes in a lot different forms. More important that you find someone who can stand with you, shoulder to shoulder, when everything is going from sugar ta shit, than finding someone the rest o’ the world thinks is who yer supposed to be with.”

She gave an unladylike snort, and waved one hand in a dismissive motion. “Like the rest o’ the world has any business telling a body who he or she ought ta have soft feelings for. People love who they love. Never seemed ta matter a hill a beans whether they were supposed to feel that way or not.”

She rolled her eyes, and huffed out an exasperated sigh. “Ain’t nothing wrong with it if the person ya love jus’ happens to be the same sex you are.Too much hardship in this world all ready to turn down a good thing when ya see it.Ya get a gift that precious from the Almighty,” she pointed one finger emphatically at both of them, “and believe me, boys, that is just what love is…then you’d be fools not to take it.”

She smirked, eyes twinkling.“And ‘fore you ask, Ezra Standish…it don’t bother me knowing it’s you that Vin’s with.”

Ezra frowned, uncertain.“But you have already stated that I was not who you expected.”

Nettie shrugged one shoulder, settling further into her chair. “I been wrong before, and ‘spect I will be again.” She shook her head. “Don’t matter a tinker’s damn what I think. What matters is you are his choice. And from the look o’ things, he’s yours.”

“Most definitely.”

“Well there ya go.”Nettie stated as though Ezra had just proved her point, which he realized his unqualified statement probably had.

Uncharacteristically hesitant, Ezra asked, “You are not…disappointed…by his choice?”

“No. I am not disappointed.” Nettie smiled softly. “Surprised maybe, but definitely not disappointed.” For a moment, Ezra fancied he could read a certain genuine fondness for him in her eyes.

She pointed a finger at both of them again.“Mind you…I expect you to be good to one another. Treat each other with love, respect, dignity, and honesty.” She shook her finger as she said each word, adding emphasis.“I’ll tan yer hides if I find you doing otherwise.”

There was no mistaking that she meant her words for both of them, something Ezra found surprising.I would have expected her to admonish me to take care in how I treat Vin, but for her to admonish Vin…well, that I certainly did not anticipate. It would appear that Nettie has more in common with Buck than I realized.Neither was at all shocked by a romantic relationship between two men, or painted either of us as a villain with regard to treatment of the other. Amazing to think two people I would have otherwise thought of as having nothing in common should respond in such a similar fashion.

“In the end,” Nettie sighed softly, “all that really matters is that you’re happy, and aren’t hurting each other or anyone else.”

Ezra was struck by how similar her statement was to the sentiment JD had voiced yesterday morning.Perhaps he will do better with her as an in-law than I thought. Hah.He may well fare better than I in that area. Good lord.Somehow she is not quite what I pictured when I imagined a mother-in-law. But then, Vin isn’t want I pictured as my life mate either…and I’ve no regrets with how that has turned out. No, definitely no regrets.

“Anyone else know the two o’ you are…,” Nettie paused for a moment as though seeking the right word.She grinned, suddenly looking years younger. “Guess for all intents and purposes the two o’ you are married.”

Ezra gave her a startled glance.He was surprised by her characterization and how it uncannily mirrored his own thoughts a moment ago when he’d mentally dubbed her his mother-in-law. She may well be right in using ‘married’ to portray us.Perhaps without all the traditional ceremony and trappings, but committed to one another nonetheless.We have even exchanged tokens…albeit they were not rings, but still symbolic just the same.Married is a most apt interpretation of our relationship.

Ezra smiled, and glanced toward Vin.His lover wore a grin to match Nettie’s, unmistakably delighted with her description.Seeing his lover’s expression, Ezra felt his spirits lift. It was heartening to see such an unaffected response that plainly indicated Vin felt the same way he did.

“Chris, Buck, Nathan, and JD know.”Vin answered the question Nettie had begun to ask, but hadn’t really finished. “And you. Makes five people who know.”

She pursed her lips in thought.“You told me that you weren’t telling people unless they asked…So, I’m guessing they put the pieces together, and asked ya then?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Her eyes narrowed.“They give you any grief?”Ezra got the impression she would be willing to confront even the formidable Larabee on their behalf.That was not something he’d ever expected. The moment felt almost surreal. He was having trouble shifting mental gears. Focus Ezra.You have spent years being able to adapt to virtually anything instantaneously. This is no different.

“Nothing we can’t handle, Miz Nettie.”Vin stated, calmly handling the question that so befuddled Ezra.

Nettie snorted. “That ain’t the same as a no, boy.”

Vin shrugged one shoulder, but didn’t back down.“No, it ain’t.”

She frowned. “You want me to straighten out whichever one’s being stupid?”

“No. No, Mrs. Welles that will not be necessary.” Ezra was quick to field that question.He knew her offer was sincere, and while he found heartwarming, even gratifying, the gambler really didn’t even want to contemplate how letting Nettie act on their behalf might affect things.I’m sure it would prove to be an enlightening experience, but it simply wouldn’t do to allow her to ‘straighten’ out any of our comrades. We asked all of them to keep our confidence, it would not be proper to allow anyone outside our troupe to interfere. Rather like what I’ve always heard about family.Squabbles are supposed to stay within the group, and should be handled internally whenever possible.

“While we do appreciate your offer,” Ezra dipped his head in a genteel bow, “as Mr. Tanner indicated, it is nothing we cannot handle.”

Nettie studied him for a moment, eyes searching his, before she nodded slowly. “If that’s how you want it.But, you let me know if anything changes. You ain’t alone.You need help all you gotta do is ask. Ya hear me?”

“We hear ya, Ma’am.”

Vin squeezed Ezra’s hand once, signaling to the gambler it was better not to argue the point further and just accept the situation. Ezra squeezed back, letting Vin know he understood. He hadn’t survived this long by not knowing how to pick his battles.And he was smart enough to realize Nettie made a better ally than enemy. Lord, but I think she’d take on the Devil himself if she thought it were necessary.

Nettie smiled warmly.“Good.That’s settled then.”She relaxed, settling once more comfortably back into her chair.

Ezra took a deep breath, and let it out slowly, regaining control of his wayward emotions, relieved that this hurdle seemed to have been cleared. He sincerely hoped the rest of the day went smoothly.   He wasn’t certain of his ability to withstand such a turbulent emotional tornado more than once a day.He was pleased to note his hand was steady when he reached for the cup of coffee Emily had placed in front of him.

“You might want ta take more care, Ezra.”Nettie raised a hand to tap her chest in roughly the same spot where Ezra’s love knot lay on his.“Wearing that pendant where other people can see it is likely ta raise an eyebrow or too.Might get people asking questions that you don’t wanna answer.”

“Ordinarily, good lady, it is hidden from view.”Ezra smiled wryly, realizing that had he taken the same care this morning that he did most days, the previous five minutes were never have occurred. “But given the task we are to undertake today, I considered it prudent to forgo my usual attire.”

Nettie quirked an eyebrow at him.“Thought all yer were gonna do was teach Casey. Can’t see how that would get yer fancy duds dirty.”

Ezra shrugged one shoulder.“It pays to be prepared for any eventuality.”

Nettie chuckled.“That it does.”

Emily reappeared with their breakfast orders.Ezra could tell by the set of her shoulders the young woman had braced herself to deal without an escalation of the tension she’d noticed earlier. When she relaxed minutely, he knew she had correctly read the situation finding that whatever was wrong earlier had apparently been settled.Good girl.She deftly placed their plates on the table, and checked the level of coffee in the pot before slipping away again.

Nettie watched with a motherly satisfaction as Vin started eating. She shook her head at the small meal Ezra had ordered. “Don’t see how you expect ta do much only eating that little bit.”Nettie gave him a firm look.“That ain’t enough ta keep a bird going.”

Ezra sighed silently as he carefully drizzled honey over his cornbread. While he was relieved to have the topic of conversation shift, Ezra wasn’t sure this was the direction he wanted it to go in. Wonderful.Yet another to critic my dietary habits. I can’t remember anyone ever noticing before…now suddenly it seems everyone monitors my intake.Buck, Chris, Nathan…Vin is by far the most vigilant, if not the most vocal. Funny, but I don’t really mind when he does it. From others it feels intrusive, judgmental, but from Vin, well, I know he is just concerned, that he cares.

“It is all I require.”Ezra kept his voice, and expression, serene.

 “Nonsense.”Nettie frowned.“Breakfast is the most important meal o’ the day. Only way to get the day started right is with a good meal.”

“Yes, well, my day usually begins a bit later than most.” He pointed out with a smile. “I find a large meal at this time of day to be more than my appetite can withstand.”

Her eyes narrowed studying him in a frank appraisal. “That mean you eat a good lunch then?”

“Usually.”

“All right then.”She nodded firmly.“I’ll make sure there is some good fixings ready for you boys when it’s lunch time.”

Ezra was about to tell her that it wasn’t necessary, but Vin kicked him lightly under the table.He sighed, resigned to losing this battle as well. “That would be most generous of you. Thank you.”

Nettie smirked, obviously pleased that the matter had been settled to her satisfaction. “While we wait on the others ta show up…Why don’t you fill me in what’s been going on in town the past few days? Understand there was a bit of a dust up in the saloon.”

The gambler knew Vin usually made a point of stopping to check on the old homesteader, and keep her abreast of what went on in town. He also knew that Vin hadn’t been out to her ranch in the past few days.Ezra waved one hand in a graceful motion, inviting Vin to proceed, not wanting to intrude on what was something of a personal ritual between them.

Vin finished nibbling on the piece of bacon he’d been eating when Nettie made her request.  “Well, ma’am that little scuffle started with…”

Ezra smiled, and settled into to just enjoy listening to the sound of his lover’s voice. It was one of his secret pleasures, and he fully intended to enjoy it.

*******

Nathan wiped his hand across his brow in a futile effort to remove the accumulated sweat. The day had started out cool but had gotten progressively hotter, the evaporation of the previous day’s rain adding an unusually heavy humidity to the mix. Being up on Nettie’s roof totally exposed to the harsh southwestern sun had not helped matters.

The healer sighed softly, stretching out a kink in his back as he glanced over to where Vin was efficiently hammering yet another row of shingles into place. The tracker was handy to have around, skilled at many of the day to day tasks that living in the West required.  He moved with an economy of motion, setting a pace that made it possible to accomplish a great deal without wasting time or energy.It was a skill that Nathan sometimes envied. He shook his head.Best to get back to work if we want to get done today.

His attention was captured by the sound of Casey’s laughter. She was sitting under a nearby tree with Ezra. The gambler was gesturing as he talked, clearly using those motions to add to whatever he was saying. Nathan couldn’t hear what was said, but suspected it was likely some outlandish tall tale.

He snorted.   Bet that man never lifted a hammer or toted anything in his whole life. Living the life o’ ease in some big house while me and my kind busted our asses in the hot sun. Can’t understand how he and Vin ever got together.Ain’t like the two o’ them have much in common. Seem right happy together…least so far as I can tell, so maybe having stuff in common isn’t that big a deal for them.

Vin glanced over at him.“Somethin’ wrong, Nate?

“No, Vin, nothing’s wrong.”Nathan answered.“Just hot.”

Vin nodded in agreement before returning to his earlier working rhythm. Never what one would call talkative, it wasn’t unusual for the Texan to say little.Although, lately Nathan found his friend’s silence unnerving. He couldn’t quite put his finger on it, but he had the distinct impression that Vin wasn’t quiet simply because he didn’t feel the need to talk.It felt more like the tracker didn’t want to talk to him.

The healer frowned as he went back to work mulling over the problem, examining it from every angle, looking for what he might have done to offend Vin. Nathan had seen little of either Vin or Ezra since the conversation in the clinic.He realized with a start that other than to check on Ezra’s still healing injuries, and at their communal meals, he’d not seen either man. He hammered in a nail with more force than necessary as he realized that both men had been avoiding him.

Nathan frowned trying to figure out why.When they talked in the clinic he thought things were okay between them. At least they had parted on good terms as far as he knew.Nathan realized that he’d probably started things off wrong. But he was just looking out for a friend. Making sure the tracker hadn’t been suckered into some nefarious scheme Ezra had concocted, or been seduced by the less than scrupulous gambler.    

Nathan pursed his lips, reaching for the next shingle. Ezra had seemed to understand Nathan’s position that it wasn’t personal, that sometimes Ezra’s accent and mannerism just reminded Nathan of people and places he’d rather forget. It was something the healer did find genuinely surprising. Never would have thought he’d be the sort ta understand that. Didn’t figure a man like him would have suffered much in his life that he didn’t want to remember.

What had insulted Ezra more was the idea he was using Vin. But oddly enough, the gambler seemed more inclined to understand Nathan’s position far better than Vin had. Ezra seemed quick to realize that the former slave had not meant to offend, that his limited experience with same sex relationships was less than stellar and had colored his thinking.Didn’t think he’d still be angry over that. To be fair, most of the time Ezra can be as easygoing as Buck. Neither one of them are the type to hold a grudge for long.At least I didn’t think so.Didn’t figure he’d take to avoiding me, that’s for sure. Course, I don’t really know that he has been doin’ that. Man’s been takin’ it easy, resting like I told him to.And we don’t usually cross paths all that often outside o’ the saloon. So, maybe I’m reading more into his not being around than there really is.

The healer bit his lip.Vin might well be another story altogether. Nathan thought over what he’d said in the clinic, and how it was said.Guess no man likes to be thought of as being too stupid or naïve to be able to take care of himself.And I pretty much came right out and told Vin I thought that. Wasn’t what I meant, but it did sound that way.

Even at the time Nathan was aware he’d made a mistake.He had tried to make amends, apologizing for what he’d said. He’d thought that was enough, but realized maybe more was required. I know Vin has to be avoiding me. Normally, I see more of him than I have lately.Only reason he’d got to be doing that would be if he was still mad at me.

Nathan decided the best course of action would be to confront Vin. He had to find a way to fix this. He really didn’t want to ruin their friendship, and if he let this continue he was sure that would be the end result. He took a deep breath and squared his shoulders.

“Vin?”

The tracker looked over at him.“Yeah?”

“Can I ask you a question?”

“I think ya just did.”Vin smirked, his smile reminiscent of one Ezra sometimes wore. “But feel free ta ask another one iffen ya still wanna.”

Nathan shook his head.   “I think you’re hanging around Ezra too much. You’re starting to sound like him.”

Vin just laughed quietly.“I was a wise ass long ‘fore me and Ez got together Nate.” The sharpshooter pinned him with a frank look, sky blue eyes unwavering.“Not some babe in arms, ya know.Been on my own since I was five, an’ I learned a thing or two along the way ‘bout sassing people.”

Nathan winced. Yep.He’s still mad at me.   He couldn’t help himself as he pointed out, “I said I was sorry.”

Vin snorted. “Yeah, ya did. But I’m not sure ya know what you should be sorry for.”

“Meaning?” Nathan frowned, not understanding Vin’s statement.

Vin laid down his hammer and turned to sit so he faced Nathan directly. “Tell me what exactly yer apologizing for.”

That stopped Nathan cold.He thought it was obvious.Evidently what he was thinking showed on his face because Vin glared at him. The healer shifted slightly, uncomfortable being on the receiving end of that look.

“Are ya sorry you thought Ezra was like that bastard you knew? Even after a year of working with the man, you still don’t know him any better than that.”Vin’s voice was soft, but there was an intensity to it carrying every word to Nathan easily.“You all but told him you don’t think of him as being any better than yer former master.That you think o’ him as being just like those people you spent most of yer life hatin’.How in the hell do you think that made him feel? You even give a damn about that?”

The healer flinched.The gambler had said he understood, and Nathan had been more than willing to let it go at that.He had been far too focused on his own concerns, his own perceptions, and hadn’t honestly considered how Ezra might have felt. He also hadn’t expected Vin to be angry on Ezra’s behalf either. In hindsight, he realized he should have.It was a logical assumption that a man willing to lay his life on the line for his friends would go to even greater lengths for his lover.

“Ain’t his fault that he speaks like he comes from the South.He does come from the South.How is he s’posed to talk?”Vin’s expression was an odd mixture of anger and disappointment. Nathan found the disappointment hit him much harder than the anger.Before he could even think of a response the tracker had already continued speaking.

“And Ezra has got manners.Nothing wrong with his using ‘em, and acting like a gentleman. But you made it sound there was something wrong with him being polite.Made it sound like it was his fault he reminds you of people and stuff you’d rather forget.Well, it ain’t his fault.Not by a long shot.”

The lanky Texan’s lip curled, all trace of disappointment gone, eyes flashing now with only anger.“Or are you just sorry you thought I was too damn dumb to figure out how to protect myself from someone looking for a good time? You had it figured that I wouldn’t know the difference between love and being used.Or that I wasn’t man enough to protect myself. Ya think I wear a gun just for show? That maybe I don’t know how ta use it?”

Vin cocked his head to one side.“So just what are ya really sorry for, Nate? Your apology isn’t worth a damn until you know why you’re sorry.”

Nathan stared at him, not sure what to say.He opened his mouth, and then closed it again. Aw hell.Looks like I messed this up worse than I thought I did. He sighed softly. “I’m sorry for all of it.”

“Then it’s about time you proved it.”

“Prove it?” Nathan felt both eyebrows rise.

“Yep.” Vin nodded firmly once. “So far all you done is said some words. Talk is easy, Nathan. You really mean it, then it’s about damn time you started to act like it.”

The healer’s brow furled.“How?”

“Well for starters ya can start by seeing Ezra for who he really is.”

Nathan stared at him blankly.Who else would I be…oh.He means what I said in the clinic.Never should have said that.Realize that now.“About what I said in the clinic…well, that was a mistake.”

“Yer damn right it was.” Vin growled.“And that ain’t the only time ya made it either.”

Nathan opened his mouth to protest that he’d only ever seen Ezra as being like his master’s brother that one time, but Vin cut him off. “You haven’t really seen Ezra since the day you met. All you ever saw was some fancy dressed feller from the south that you were sure owned some o’ your kin. Saw someone you were sure wasn’t worthy of being trusted or respected.Ain’t sure you’ve learned to see different either.”

Vin’s expression softened slightly, eyes warming as the anger gave way to the tracker’s more typically easygoing nature.“I know it musta been hell the way you grew up. Can’t even begin ta imagine what it was like. An’ it couldn’t have been easy to get free or stay that way.But ya gotta stop lettin’ your past color everything in the here and now. It ain’t right.”

Nathan scowled. He was unwilling to admit that his having been a slave had such a wide-reaching affect on his outlook. He didn’t even want to consider the possibility that his old master might still be controlling any aspect of his life, no matter how minor.I am a free man, damn it.My life is my own.

“My past doesn’t color everything.” Nathan protested Vin’s assertion.

“Just how you think of Ez, and how ya treat him.” The tracker pointed out quietly.

Nathan opened his mouth to deny that charge, but Vin held up a hand stopping his words. He tipped his head toward where Ezra was still talking with Casey.“Ya looked over there just a few minutes ago. Tell me what you were thinkin’.”

Nathan shrugged one shoulder.He didn’t see the harm in answering honestly, and his innate forthright nature really wouldn’t let him lie.’Sides, knowing Vin he already knows anyway. Man is just uncanny about stuff like that. “Was thinking Ezra probably never worked a day in his life.”

Vin raised one eyebrow.“And what makes you so sure he hasn’t?”

Nathan rolled his eyes.“For crying out loud…when Maude was here she told us all about him growing up—“

“Yeah, and Maude is such an honest person.Never known that woman to lie.”Vin interrupted, his tone dry as dust. “I mean, she only makes her living doing the same stuff you get on Ezra about; lying, cheating and stealing. Ya don’t trust him, but her, well, no problem there at all believing whatever crap she says ta ya.”

Nathan felt his face warm.He hadn’t even considered the possibility that the stories the conwoman told about Ezra’s childhood were not the truth.  Well, I didn’t think she had a reason to lie about that stuff. Weren’t like there was anything ta be gained by it. Still, he had to concede Vin had a point.Maude was far from trustworthy, and just because he thought there was nothing to be gained by lying didn’t mean she saw it the same way. He should have known better than to give her stories so much credence.   

He wasn’t willing to admit he was wrong just yet though. “Even if she lied, the man told us gentlemen don’t do manual labor.”

Vin snorted. “He said gentlemen don’t do menial labor.There’s a difference.And he never said he was a gentlemen…not once. He just let ya assume he was.”

That made Nathan pause.He could have sworn the gambler had clearly said he was a gentleman. He was sure that the conman had laid claim to being better than the rest of them. For the first time, Nathan considered that he might have been willingly conned into seeing what he expected to see.

“Was an easy mistake ta make.I mean he knows that useless stuff a gentleman is s’posed ta know. Stuff like how ta wield a sword.” Vin smirked. “Course so do you, so maybe that little detail ain’t really all that important when it comes ta being a gentlemen.”

Vin’s lips relaxed into his usual half-smile.“And he’s always nice ta the ladies, but then so is Buck. Course, Ezra is a bit more genteel about it.”

The tracker cocked his to one side, studying Nathan. “Talks better than most. But that don’t really mean anythin’. Josiah can talk pretty to when he puts his mind to it. And Mr. Lovitt, that fat fart banker talks good too, even better than Ez.I ain’t never hear ya think of him as a gentlemen. Least wise that weren’t what ya said when ya heard he’d taken a header inta that mud puddle the other day.”  

“Only thing he does different is dress better than anyone else in town. Truth is anyone with enough money could dress just as fancy.”Vin chuckled.“Doubt anyone else could do it with the same style. If it’s one thing my Ez has, it’s style.” There was no mistaking the pride in his voice.

“Appearance may not be everythin’, Nathan,” Vin’s expression sobered, blue eyes easily holding Nathan’s darker counterparts, “but sometimes it don’t take all that much ta make a picture of what people expect ta see. ‘Specially if they never think to look any deeper or ask any questions.”

The tracker sighed.“All of us are more than what we appear at first glance, Nathan. All I’m sayin’ is that you need to look again. Might find ya see more this time ‘round.”

That was evidently all Vin had to say on the subject. He picked up his hammer, and turned to go back to work. Nathan stared at him totally flabbergasted.He’d never heard Vin Tanner say so much at one time. Or be quite so eloquent.

He really couldn’t maintain the façade of righteous indignation, wounded pride, or even honest anger.He wanted to; not willing to admit he’d been mistaken or so easily misled. But Vin’s arguments made it impossible for him to ignore the fact that me may well have been wrong, that he had jumped to conclusions where Ezra was concerned. He tried to wrap his mind around everything Vin had said, reevaluating what he thought he knew of Ezra in light of what Vin had pointed out to him.His turbulent thoughts were interrupted by a soft drawl.

“Gentlemen.” Ezra leaned casually against the edge of the roof.“Mrs. Wells requested I ascend the dubious stability of this ladder to determine the reason for the sudden halt in your steady cacophony.” He raised an eyebrow, eyes moving from Vin to Nathan, and back again.“Is there a problem?”

“Nah, Ez, no problems.”

Sharp green eyes seemed to take in everything with just a glance. Nathan shifted uneasily, wondering if it were possible for the gambler to guess what they’d been discussing. He was suddenly ashamed of himself. All this time Ezra had been aware of what Nathan thought and his moral code, of the healer’s history, of his dreams and aspirations. And he’d only made assumptions about the other man, never once thinking to just ask for information, to look deeper, or even listen to the answers when someone else thought to ask the question.

Ezra shook his head.“Mr. Tanner.”There was the slightest reprimand in Ezra’s tone. But Vin didn’t look the least repentant. The tracker’s chin came up, eyes meeting Ezra’s unwaveringly.The healer wasn’t sure what, but something definitely passed between the other two men.Ezra’s lips quirked upward in a small half-smile, and he dipped his head.

Nathan found himself unable to interpret that simple gesture as anything other than acquiescence on the part of the gambler.Although, he really didn’t have a clear idea as to what Ezra had given in to. Downright creepy they way they can talk and not say a word. At least when Chris and Vin do that I feel like I got some idea o’ what they are ‘talking’ about. Course, I only think I know with them.Seems a lot o’ what I thought I knew might just not be so. The healer sighed and found himself wondering if it was too late to go back to bed and start the day over.

“Since you have come to a temporary halt,” Ezra waved a hand toward the pile of shingles yet to be placed, “then perhaps it is time to indulge ourselves in the repast Mrs. Welles has taken upon herself to prepare. She indicated that it would be ready presently.”

“I could eat.” Vin casually hooked the claw of his hammer so the tool would remain in place on the roof where he evidently intended to leave it, and moved toward the ladder.

Nathan slowly followed suit.He expected to have to wait for Ezra to climb down the ladder, and then Vin. He figured the gambler’s shoulder would probably slow him down a bit. But to his amazement the gambler made it back to the ground in record time.Ezra simply positioned his boots so they rested outside the rungs, and using his hands to balance himself, slide swiftly down to come to rest on the ground in an amazingly short time.Vin followed Ezra’s example, grinning as he did it. He reminded Nathan of the children when Ezra showed them a new card trick.

The healer opted to utilize the rungs on the ladder rather than risk simply sliding down as Vin and Ezra had done.He had a feeling it was a lot harder to do than either of them made it look. Two o’ them are part squirrel, I swear.

Ezra shook his head when Vin would have headed straight for the door. Nathan trailed after them when, with one hand on Vin’s arm, Ezra led him to where a bucket of clean water, a bar of soap, and two small towels had been left, obviously placed for their use.  He waved a hand, inviting both Vin and Nathan to use what was before them.

“I took the liberty of assuming you would both like to clean up a bit before dining. Mrs. Welles was rather, shall we say,” The gambler’s lips quirked upward in an almost secretive smile, “forceful in her diatribe regarding the sort of people she would reserve a place for at her table.I strongly suggest you both make use of the materials provided, lest she ban you from her delectable kitchen.”

Vin chuckled, blue eyes twinkling.“Nettie can be right picky ‘bout that sort o’ thing.”

Ezra nodded sagely.“So it would seem.”He patted Vin on the shoulder, tipping his head to Nathan, before heading toward the door.“I’ll leave you two to finish your ablutions.”

Nathan watched Ezra head inside.He blinked in surprise as he noticed for the first time what the gambler was wearing.He’d failed make note of the simple, almost bland attire earlier, in part because the conman wore it with the same natural grace and elegance that he did is more usual colorful, expensive garb.

Hunh.Didn’t think he owned anything plain or…utilitarian. Man always seems ta wear colors brighter than a peacock, and I’d have bet a month’s salary that he wouldn’t have been caught in anything so…so…ordinary.Guess Vin was right about Ezra having style. Don’t know anyone else who could walk around in such a commonplace outfit and make it seem downright regal.

Nathan shook his head realizing Vin was right about something else as well. Had Ezra been wearing his current clothing when they first met in the saloon, he might have formed an entirely different opinion. He bit his lower lip, uncomfortable with what that realization said about him.

Was he really that shallow?Until now, he hadn’t thought so.Was he really so quick to judge a man with no more to go on than his clothing and speech patterns?Did this make him no better than those he believed to be so quick to judge him based solely on the color of his skin? If it were true, Nathan knew it made him a hypocrite. And that label was not one the former slave wanted to have attached to himself.Determined not to be the type of person he found morally offensive, Nathan resolved to do what Vin had suggested…look again, and see more than he had before. He sighed heavily, suspecting that the task he’d just set for himself might be harder than he expected. How do you stop yourself from doing stuff when you don’t even know you’re doing it?

“You okay there Nate?”Vin asked quietly, looking up from where he was drying his hands and face.

“Yeah, Vin. I’m fine.” The healer smiled wanly. “Just thinkin’ on what you said.”

The tracker nodded, eyes conveying a depth of understanding and sympathy that Nathan hadn’t expected.Vin casually draped the damp towel over the nearby fence rail. “Might help if ya were ta talk to Ez.”Vin’s eyes suddenly twinkled with humor. “It’s amazing what ya learn just by askin’ a few questions.”

“Yeah, but would he answer ‘em?”

Vin shrugged one shoulder. “Ez always answers when ya ask him something. But—“

“But only the question you ask.”Nathan finished for him.He already knew that.The gambler could take a decidedly literal approach to things when it suited him.An’ for a man who seems to talk so much he can say damn little when he feels like it.

Vin slapped him lightly on the back as he headed inside. Nathan shook his head, and bent to wash his face and hands. He really had no idea how to approach Ezra. Somehow he just didn’t think sitting at Nettie’s kitchen table would be a good time to do it.

Nettie tended to defend what she thought was hers. The old woman had placed a claim on Vin early on. Nathan realized that lately she’d seemed to have taken a real shine to Ezra as well. He knew she wouldn’t have asked Ezra to teach Casey if she didn’t think highly of him.And wafting from the window was the smell of Ezra’s favorite pie, something he knew Nettie had to have made especially for the gambler.

Somehow he just couldn’t see starting anything in front of her. Nor did he think Ezra would be inclined to talk in front of the ladies.The conman had a tendency to make sure the conversation focused somewhere other than himself when in a group, especially if ladies were present. S’pose that’s part of being a gentlemen. Saw white folks in the big house do that all the time. Ladies pretty much directed the conversation while they was around.Made sure it was light stuff, nothing ta upset the meal or make people uncomfortable.The men split off ta another room later ta smoke and talk. Course, the only time I’ve ever heard Ezra say much ‘bout himself is when he’s with just us seven. Might be he don’t want other people knowing his business. Can’t say I blame him there.

Nathan chose to overlook the fact there were times when Nettie scared him. He’d already had to deal with an angry and disappointed Vin.He wasn’t sure he could handle Nettie in a similar condition, at least not today. Unlike Vin, the homesteader probably wouldn’t pull her punches.And he doubted he’d get off as easy with her as he had with Vin.

Maybe on the way back to town. He grimaced realizing he wouldn’t be alone with Ezra. Vin would be with them. Funny, that never bothered me before.Course, I never had reason to question my own opinion before either. The healer sighed again as he dried off his face and hands. He was beginning to appreciate why Chris turned to alcohol so frequently.A good stiff drink sure would be nice about now.//

*******

Riding back to Four Corners, Vin kept a subtle eye on Nathan. He hadn’t expected to confront the healer on the roof, but he wasn’t sorry he had. It was apparent to him that the man had been doing some serious thinking, even though the topic hadn’t been brought up again. The tracker considered it a measure of success just being able to get the man to question himself and his point of view. Have to wait an’ see if it does any good. He watched as Nathan took a deep breath and squared his shoulders. Definitely getting ready ta do somethin’. Vin had no worries about Ezra. Even though the gambler might not have known exactly what was said on the roof, he knew the score.Vin felt a flush of pride thinking about his lover. Not much gets past Ez.An’ I ain’t really worried about him being able to handle Nate. He’s been doing that for the past year

Nathan cleared his throat.“Ez?”

“Yes, Mr. Jackson?”Ezra cocked his head slightly, indicating Nathan had his attention.

“Who are Hector and Achilles?”

Vin raised both eyebrows, half turning in his saddle to stare at Nathan in surprise. What the hell? Now that was not what I expected him to ask at all.

Ezra chuckled, and gave the healer a sly look. “Listening on Miss Casey’s lesson were you?”

“Well, I really only heard that last bit.” Nathan shrugged. He looked apologetic, and shifted restlessly in his saddle. “Heard ya mention somethin’ about a war. Was expectin’ ya to be talking about the war between the states, but nothing I heard really had much to do with that.”

“Hector and Achilles were heroes of the Trojan War, an event in human history that happened so long ago it is likely more myth than reality.” Ezra waved a hand in a graceful, meaningless gesture. “A blind poet by the name of Homer is credited with ensuring the story was not lost to posterity. The story is known as the Iliad. It is a classic piece of literature that I thought Miss Welles would benefit from being exposed to.”

“Wouldn’t it have been easier ta just let her read it than ta read it to her?”

“Ideally, yes, that would be true.” Ezra shrugged one shoulder.“Unfortunately, the only copy of the Iliad I happen to possess is in the original Greek.A language, I am fairly certain, Miss Welles is not presently equipped to decipher.”

Nathan stared at Ezra. If Vin was reading his expression right, the healer was genuinely astounded. It was a feeling he could relate to. Coulda knocked me over with a feather when I found out how many different languages he can speak.

“You speak Greek?” Nathan asked, his skepticism easy to read.

“To a limited degree, yes.I read it far better than I speak it.” Ezra casually admitted.His nonchalant demeanor made it obvious he was telling the truth. “So while not as verbally proficient in the language as I would prefer,” the gambler waved a hand in a ‘more or less’ motion, “I am still sufficiently knowledgeable to serve in the capacity of translator, thereby allowing Miss Welles the opportunity to enjoy a truly magnificent work of prose.”

Nathan blinked, processing what the gambler had just said. “You learn that in some fancy school?”

Ezra sighed softly.“No, Mr. Jackson, I did not learn Greek in an institution of higher learning.”

“So where did ya learn it?”

The conman’s gaze shifted to the horizon.He smiled slightly before his expression became as distant as the point his stare was focused on.For a moment, Vin wondered if his lover would refuse to answer. He also wondered if he shouldn’t step in and put a halt Nathan’s questions, not wanting bad memories to be dredged up for Ezra. Before he could act on that thought, Ezra took breath and refocused on the healer.

“My exposure to Greek actually happened in a broken fashion, off and on again over the course of my childhood. My first introduction occurred when I was six years old.” Ezra smiled warmly, and his eyes sparkled slightly. It eased Vin’s worry about Nathan’s question resurrecting bad memories. He wouldn’t look like that if it were bad stuff.

“I went to live with a woman I knew only as Aunt Matilda; Mattie to her friends. She believed a classical education was essential for a proper gentleman.Greek and Latin were the principle foundations for said education. So while I was staying with her, Mattie took it upon herself to find instructors for me.”

Ezra chuckled and shook his head.“Unfortunately, the individuals whose services she engaged were more apt to slaughter the spoken form of either language than to genuinely teach me the correct usage.Not to mention their penchant for utilizing phrases fit only for use as insults, or propositioning women of the evening.”

“You’re kidding?”Vin grinned, trying to picture a pint-sized Ezra getting language lessons that involved learning how to talk to prostitutes. Bet he’d a been a real charmer as a kid. Can just see him flashing those big green eyes and dimples.

“No, I’m not kidding Vin.”Ezra grinned back at him, gold pre-molar flashing for a moment in the sun. “Despite their efforts, rather than because of them, I did learn the basics of how read both languages. And eventually learned what Aunt Matilda had intended; albeit, not until I was a bit older and staying elsewhere.”

“Did she know what they were teaching you?”Nathan asked, still incredulous.

Ezra’s expression turned wry.“I rather suspect that she was indeed aware that my education was not entirely, shall we say, textbook.But then, as Madame of one of the most profitable houses of pleasure in New Orleans, I seriously doubt there was much that escaped her notice.”

Nathan’s mouth dropped open.“Your aunt was a whore?”

Ezra raised one eyebrow, green eyes calmly appraising Nathan for a heartbeat or two. The healer had the good sense to look embarrassed. Vin was fairly certain that Nathan had meant no offense, that he was simply taken by surprise to learn that Ezra’s family tree had included more than he expected. Don’t know if Ezra will think that though. Kinda looking forward to seein’ how he handles this. Vin settled into his saddle, waiting.

Nathan cleared his throat.“I’m sorr—“

The gambler held up a hand halting Nathan’s words. “Specifically, Mattie was not a blood relative. She was more of a family friend than anything else. And she was not a whore, Mr. Jackson. She was a courtesan.”

The southerner gave the last word a French accent which added note of regality, subtly emphasizing her station as being better than what Nathan’s question implied. “She was, in nearly every sense of the word, a lady, one with impeccable style. Mattie was fully capable of engaging in intelligent discourse on nearly any subject.She was accomplished at several musical instruments, and could sing like an angel.”

Ezra tipped his head slightly, a half-smile blossoming on his face. “Of course, she could also play a mean game of poker.” His smile grew, dimples appearing. “I do believe that she was far better at the game than even my own dear mother. And she could pick a man’s pocket without him ever feeling it. But I don’t think any man ever objected to receiving attention from her, no matter how larcenous the intent.”

Ezra’s expression became one of fond reminiscence. “It was at her knee that I learned my first card trick. Although, it took me years of diligent practice to even come close to the skill she possessed.”

“An’ Maude thought it was okay for you ta stay with this lady even though she was a…courtesan?” Nathan asked.The black man was quick to add, “I don’t mean any offense, Ezra, but don’t seem like an appropriate place for a child.”

“In my formative years, Mr. Jackson, I spent very little time in places most would consider appropriate for a child.”The gambler’s tone was dry, but not sarcastic. “Mattie’s was one of the better places my mother saw fit to leave me.”

Vin was curious about any part of Ezra’s past, particularly any part he remembered positively. But he suspected Nathan’s next question might have something more to do with Maude, a topic the tracker would prefer not to dwell on. Don’t think Ez really wants to either, so it’s probably best to move this on ta other things a bit.

“How long did ya stay with Mattie, Ez?”The tracker asked, hoping to quietly direct the conversation away from Maude.

“Just over a year.”

“Where’d ya go from there?”

“Virginia.” Ezra made a movement with his fingers that made the ruby ring he wore spin slightly. “I went to live with Uncle Malcolm.”

“Was he another friend of the family?”Nathan inquired.He seemed to be honestly interested.

“Malcolm was the brother to one of my mother’s husbands. So, by all rights, he was family, though not a direct blood relative.”

Nathan raised an eyebrow.“He a gambler too?”

“Oh good heavens, no.”Ezra laughed; a sound of open and honest amusement. “Uncle Malcolm couldn’t even shuffle a deck of cards.” He chortled, trying to regain control, green eyes alight with amusement.“The man was the most mechanically disinclined individual I have ever had the pleasure to know.”

Vin’s brows pulled down slightly in confusion.“This the same Malcolm who showed you how ta use a sling?”

“One in the same.”Ezra waved a hand in another meaningless, yet graceful gesture. “He was a brilliant man. Quite possibly the most intelligent man I’ve ever encountered.But he was far more gifted with the theoretical aspects of life than the practical.While he was an outstanding educator, he simply wasn’t adept when it came applying what he knew.”

Ezra’s expression turned thoughtful.“That may be one of the reasons he so enjoyed my company. I could apply what he knew, and make it work.” The gambler smiled affectionately. “My stays with him were always…enlightening to say the least.”

Stays?“How long did ya get to stay with him?” Vin asked softly. He’s mentioned Malcolm a time or two, but he’s never really said just how long he was with him.

“From the time I was eight, until my twelfth birthday, my visits with Uncle Malcolm usually lasted several months.” Ezra sighed, and his eyes went distant.“All told, my time actual time with him probably amounted to…two, maybe two and a half years.”

Nathan stared at the gambler.“Didn’t you ever just stay in one place?”

“No, Mr. Jackson, I did not.”Ezra cocked his head to one side, his focus once more on the healer. “Four Corners is one of only two places I have had the good fortune to reside in for any length of time.”

“What was the other one?”

Ezra’s jaw tightened, expression slipping from open to shuttered in less than a heartbeat. Vin knew the other: the Esmerelda. It wasn’t something he felt his lover should have to rehash. Intent on disrupting this line of questioning, Vin dug his left heel into Peso.His mount reacted to that sudden jab just as Vin expected him to. Peso snorted and shied, moving so that he shoved Chaucer hard. Chaucer danced away, tossing his head in annoyance, and kicked out slightly with one rear foot. Ezra’s natural grace and horsemanship made it easy for him to maintain his seat and stay with his mount’s sudden, unexpected movements.

“Really, Vin, you must learn to control that fractious courser.” Ezra’s tone wasn’t nearly as sharp as it would have been if he were truly annoyed.

“Sorry, Ez.” Vin did his best to actually sound apologetic.He used subtle pressure from his knees to encourage Peso to prance a bit, making him look somewhat rebellious.“He just gets like this some times.”

Ezra allowed Chaucer to sidestep, and put some distance between himself and Peso. He tipped his head to regard Peso, giving the black a hard look.“Perhaps he is in need of some firm discipline or retraining.”

Man really looks irritated…until ya look at his eyes. Pretty sure ole Peso is gonna get an apple for bein’ ‘fractious’. Vin shook his head. He needed to stay in the game, and keep the conversation focused on something, anything long enough for Nathan to forget his question and the fact that Ezra hadn’t answered it.

“Now Ez – ain’t no cause to be hard on ‘im.”Vin offered.’Specially when it weren’t him, it was me.

Ezra winked slyly at him so that Nathan couldn’t see, giving the tracker a clear signal he understood.The gambler then heaved an exaggerated sigh, and rolled his eyes. “It is exactly that sort of permissive attitude that allows him to persist in this sort of malcontent behavior. I’m certain that Yosemite could recommend a competent trainer to work with Peso and correct his abysmal behavior.”

Vin snorted. “Only competent trainer he knows is you.”

“You train horses?Since when?” Nathan pulled his mount to a halt, forcing Vin and Ezra to stop as well.

Ezra blinked, clearly taken aback by Nathan’s tone. “Since I agreed to Judge Travis’ terms of service, and began working in Four Corners as an officer of the law.”

“What?” Nathan stared at him, eyes narrowed.“Ya can’t con me, Ezra. I work above that livery. No way you been training horses.” The healer declared firmly.

“You doubt my word?” Ezra raised an eyebrow, eyes narrowing. “You think I am incapable of undertaking such a task? That I lack the necessary skill and ability? Or perhaps it is my work ethic you find lacking?”

The healer hesitated for a second. Vin could tell the man wanted to say yes, but he was thinking it over. Unfortunately, he thought a bit too long. Ezra’s lips thinned, green eyes turning cold as ice.

“Between your duties as a peacekeeper and healer, I realize you are often very busy and frequently out of town attending to the needs of others. Perhaps too busy, or gone too often to even notice what goes on under your very nose.” The gambler smirked, lips twisting in a parody of a smile.

“In the future you may want to broaden your focus and pay attention to more than just your own concerns. You will most definitely want to pick your replacement mounts with more care, Mr. Jackson.” Ezra’s normally soft drawl had taken on a harsh undertone. “The horse you are currently astride is one I trained.”

Nathan’s own horse, Abe, had suffered a stone bruise a few days ago. Not wanting to risk doing permanent damage to him, Nathan had been riding rental mounts. Today the healer had chosen to ride a five year old dun gelding Yosemite had named Buster. Vin had overheard Nathan ask specifically for Buster, stating that the gelding had a smooth gait, a nice disposition and was very well behaved.

“If you doubt my word regarding Buster, then feel free to question Yosemite. I’m sure you will have no reason to doubt his veracity.” Ezra tipped his head to Nathan, and then gently nudged Chaucer with his heels, setting the gelding in motion, effectively ending the conversation.

Vin shook his head at Nathan, and the healer had the good grace to look chastised. “I’ve seen him at the livery, Vin. All the time. Just thought he was there ta spoil that horse o’ his. Saw him ride other horses on patrol, but I thought he was just taking it easy on Chaucer. Never thought some fancy dressed gambler would be taking the time to—“

Vin shook his head and held up a hand, not wanting to hear any more that the man had to say. He wasn’t angry with Nathan, not really. He was just disappointed that the man could so easily slip back into his old habit of constantly doubting the gambler. Thought we were getting somewhere here. Always seems ta be one step forward, two steps back. He urged Peso to move forward, keeping pace with Ezra.

Vin and Ezra rode slightly ahead of Nathan.Vin looked over at Ezra.Best say something here or Ez might just stay quiet the whole way back. Know the others might not believe it, but Ez can be quiet when he wants ta be.Don’t want him brooding on what Nate said…or didn’t say.

“I’m sorry.” Vin offered softly, not wanting his voice to carry.

“For what?” Ezra responded, his expression quizzical. The gambler kept his volume equally low, pitched to reach only to Vin.“You did nothing wrong, Cheri.”

“Still sorry.” Vin shrugged, not entirely certain he agreed with his lover’s assessment of his being innocent. Was me that got the whole thing rolling by opening my mouth on the roof. Was me that told him ta talk to Ez.

Vin sighed silently.“Thought maybe he was coming around.”

Ezra flashed a quick grin at Vin. “He is.”

The tracker frowned.“Not sure I see it that way, Ez.”

“There was a time when he wouldn’t have even asked a question, much less listened to the answers.This is progress, Vin.”The gambler shrugged.“It was far too optimistic to believe he would change the habit of a lifetime in only one day.”

Ezra sighed, his eyes giving away the measure of disappointment he was feeling. “It is disheartening, to be sure, that he would be so quick to find me wanting, but it was not entirely unexpected.”

Yeah, and that’s the part that pisses me off. That ya expected it. Vin nudged Peso closer to Chaucer, putting him within arm’s length so he could reach out and wrap a hand around Ezra’s wrist. “Was proud o’ you.Told him more than I thought ya would.” While he never doubted his lover would answer direct questions, he hadn’t expected him to be quite so forthcoming.

Ezra smiled, the elegant fingers of his other hand moving to cover Vin’s. “You accused Nathan of not seeing me. I can hardly fault the man for his failure if I never really showed him who I was.” He squeezed Vin’s hand once before letting go. Vin nodded in understanding as he also let go of Ezra.

“And it was no hardship to talk of Mattie and Malcolm.” The gambler’s smile was still easy and open. “I enjoyed my time with both of them. It is always nice to have cause to remember them.”

“You ever see either of them again?” Vin asked after a moment, not sure if he should ask, but curious just the same. “I mean after,” he swallowed hard, hesitating again.He wasn’t sure if he should make reference to the Esmerelda again, so he opted for what might be a safer topic. “After the war.”

Ezra bit his lip, eyes darkening slightly.“I stopped to see Malcolm…after receiving my parole. Neither of us were in the best of condition. He was dying, and I was…” Ezra’s expression turned contrite, “Well, I’m sure you are familiar with how most of us looked at that point.”

Vin nodded. He remembered all to well how rough the troops looked after the war. Most were little better than walking skeletons. It was a wonder any of them survived. It had taken him almost a year to recover the weight and health he’d lost. Probably took Ez just as long, if not longer. He was in ‘fore I was, and pretty sure he saw a lot more action than I did.

Ezra cleared his throat as his fingers moved to spin his ring again. “He gave me the ring before he passed. He told me that he wanted the only relative he ever liked to have the only thing he owned that had any value.” The gambler chuckled dryly. “Well, other than his library, but he’d already donated that to West Point.Minus one beloved volume.”

“The Iliad.” Vin stated unerringly, certain that book was one his lover had gotten from his uncle.

Ezra tipped his head in acknowledgement.“Yes.”He smiled slightly.“It was Malcolm’s favorite story.”

“And yours.”

“And mine.” Ezra agreed softly. “I have read it countless times, and never grown tired of it.”

“Maybe you could read it to me sometime?” Vin would like the opportunity to experience whatever it was his lover found so fascinating, so worthy of numerous re-readings. An’ I love having him read to me.When he was teaching Vin to read, Ezra had often read out loud to him, something the tracker never got tired of experiencing.

“Certainly.” Ezra’s eyes sparkled with surprised pleasure.“I would be delighted to introduce to it, Mr. Tanner.”

“Good.” Vin grinned at him. He cocked his head to one side realizing nothing had been said yet about Mattie. Still wanna know about her. Was a good part of his past.“So…what about Mattie?

Ezra nodded. “Mattie and I corresponded regularly throughout my childhood.Well, whenever we were able that is. As you can well imagine, given the gypsy-like nature of my upbringing, there were several lengthy gaps in our communication.” The gambler shrugged, nonchalantly. “Like many others, I made my way West after the war.I spent several months with her in New Orleans before continuing westward.”

“She was doing okay then?” Would be nice if one member o’ his family, somebody he cared about was still all right.

“As of her last letter,” Ezra smiled widely, gold premolar glinting in the sun, “which I received only two weeks ago, she is in good health, and still operating the Gilded Lily at a considerable profit.”

Vin grinned back.He knew his lover regularly received mail, more than anyone else in town, but he’d never given much thought before to who wrote him. “She write to you often?”

“I receive a letter every few months.”

Vin’s brows pulled together.“ Who do all the other letters ya get come from?”

“Most are not letters, Vin.” Ezra shook his head. “I subscribe to a number of newspapers.”

“Why?”

“Although they are expensive and often months out of date by the time they reach our dusty backwater burg, I believe it important to stay abreast of what happens elsewhere in the country. So many of those events, despite the distance, have an impact on what happens here.”

Vin nodded. “Like that statehood stuff that almost got ya killed savin’ Mary?”

“Quite.” He gave Vin a searching look. “And I was not nearly killed, Cheri.It was a flesh wound.”

“Ya got hurt.” Vin’s jaw tightened. That fact was all that mattered to him. It could have been a lot worse. Coulda lost him ‘fore I even got to know him. Christ…seeing him just put himself in the line o’ fire like that.Vin shuddered, still distressed by the events of that day.

He was pulled out his thoughts by a hand caressing his cheek. “Focus on what did happen, mon couer. Not on what might have happened.” Ezra’s soft drawl admonished him. “Remember?”

“Right.” He took a deep breath before turning his head to place a kiss in Ezra’s palm. “I remember.”

Ezra nodded once, pulling his hand back.Vin almost wished he would have left it where it was. He suspected the gambler might well have done just that, and more, had Nathan not been only a horse length or two behind them.

Vin sighed and glanced over his shoulder. He hadn’t forgotten the healer. We rode out together. No reason for not to ride in the same way. Think Ez just needed a minute to think, and can’t say it hurt Nate ta take a minute ta do the same.But I’m not gonna let Nate nurse wounded pride, or sulk the whole way home. Which is ‘xactly what would happen if we stayed ahead o’ him.Would just be another step backward. Already took enough o’ those today.

“Ya plannin’ on riding back there all day, Nate?” He called out, halting Peso as he did. Ezra and Chaucer stopped as well. “Or you gonna come join us?” His tone made it clear that Nathan was welcome.

The healer gave him a startled look, and then glanced warily at Ezra. The gambler simply raised an eyebrow, and made a small motion with his hand indicating Nathan should continue to close the distance between them.“We have weathered other misunderstandings, Mr. Jackson. Far greater than this one I might add.”

Nathan smiled hesitantly, brown eyes reflecting an apology. “That we have.”

“We will likely weather a few more.”Ezra smiled.There was no hostility in his voice or expression. His statement was a simple acknowledgement that he and Nathan would likely always have differing opinions. Those differences did not preclude them from being friends.

“Probably.” Nathan agreed, also with a smile, looking relieved.

And he should. Not every man would give him as many chances as Ezra has. Vin’s narrowed-eye look was enough to let Nathan know he would still be watching. Ez might not be one ta hold a grudge but that don’t mean I won’t be looking out for him.Stand up for him against friend and foe alike.

Ezra tipped his head and set Chaucer in motion again. Vin kneed Peso, falling in beside his lover. Nathan joined them, the three riding abreast all the way back to town.

*******

Chris chewed on his cheroot. He tried not to worry about the three men who’d spent the day at Nettie’s. It was his idea for them to be there together. He manipulated things to get them some time together. If anything went wrong, it would be his fault.

He clamped down angrily on his thin cigar. Damn it.I take responsibility all the time. This shouldn’t be any different.

But it was. Usually, he only felt accountable for their physical health, not their emotional well-being. This time he’d actually taken an interest, and gotten involved. If I gotta sweat like this every time, I’m thinking this will be the only time I do this.Should just stick to what I know.

So intent was his focus on the road where he expected Vin, Ezra and Nathan to appear, he did not immediately acknowledge the arrival of Buck. The tall cowboy slid into the seat next to Chris and propped his feet up on the railing.“They’re fine, Chris.”

Chris leveled a glare at his old friend.“You don’t know that.”

Buck rolled his eyes.“They’ve been working together for more than a year. Ain’t nothing ‘tween Ez and Nate that been there ‘fore. Two haven’t killed each other yet. No reason ta think they’ll do it today.”

Chris removed his cheroot.He pursed his lips before spitting.“What’s between Vin and Ezra is new.” And that might well be the problem.

Buck waved a hand in dismissal.“Junior ain’t gonna fly off the handle. He might get pissed at Nate, but he ain’t gonna shoot the man.”

“What makes you so sure?”

Buck held up one finger.“First of all, Vin knows Ezra wouldn’t approve of him killing the only man this town has that comes close to being a doctor. Nate is needed here and they both know it.”

He held up a second finger.“Vin likes Nate.”The ladies man gave him a stern look when Chris snorted in response to that argument.“Oh he might not be too happy with him right now, but he does like the man.”

“Maybe, but he loves Ezra.”Chris pointed out quietly, knowing all too well the lengths a man would go for someone he felt that strongly for.

Buck nodded, signaling his understanding, but not agreement. “That’s reason number three. Ezra would be pissed at him for killing Nate. Not ta mention it would mean they’d have to leave. And he knows how much Ez likes it here.Hell, they both do.He won’t risk it.”

Chris didn’t find the last argument very reassuring. Vin and Ezra had made it clear they would have left if he had voiced a dissenting opinion about their relationship. It was obvious to him they valued each other far more than they cared about staying in Four Corners. It was a sentiment he actually approved of. He’d have lived anywhere as long as he could be with Sarah.

“They might like it here, Buck, but that don’t guarantee they’d stay.”

Buck shrugged. “Only reason they’d leave is if somebody was stupid enough ta make ‘em. And Nate may be a lot o’ things, but the man is not stupid.”

The former ranger settled further into his chair. Blue eyes scanned the street, and Buck casually glanced around making note of their relatively isolated position before he continued speaking.“Sides, they only said they’d leave if there was a problem with the two o’ them being together.And that ain’t the problem here.Nate is okay with that.”

Buck ran thumb and forefinger over his mustache, his expression thoughtful. “Well, saying he’s okay with them as a couple might be stretching things a mite.But he’s not pitching a fit about them either.” Buck sighed.“No Chris, the problem is how Nate and Ezra get along with each other. An’ that’s reason number four.”

Chris frowned. “Come again?”

“This isn’t between Vin and Nate. It’s really between Ezra and Nate.” Buck smiled slightly. “Ez isn’t the sort ta hold a grudge, or lose his control o’ his temper for long.And he’s smart.”Buck’s eyes twinkled.“He was smart enough ta give you time ta come around.”

Chris scowled. “That was different.”

Buck raised an eyebrow, and gave Chris a knowing look. “You keep right on thinking that if it makes ya feel better.”      

The dark clad gunslinger glared at his long time friend. Buck returned the look, not the least bit intimidated, his expression mild.“You were just as quick ta judge Ez as Nate is. Was just for different reasons is all. But after awhile ya saw the light. Nate will too.”

Chris sighed. He knew his friend was right about him being quick to judge the gambler. He just hoped Buck was also right about Nate coming around. The last thing he wanted was for there to be, as Ezra would put it, permanent dissention among the ranks. He liked living in Four Corners too.And Chris couldn’t picture staying here if there weren’t six others to stand with him to protect it.

His gaze shifted back to the road where he expected the three men foremost in his thoughts to appear.There was no way to know for certain how long it would take to repair Nettie’s roof, but Chris expected them to show soon. Damn well better be soon, or I’m riding out there. Buck might be right about Vin not killing Nathan but that doesn’t mean they don’t need a referee. He chose to overlook the fact that he had more experience being a combatant than mediator.

His gaze narrowed as he spotted three horses just coming into view. Chris breathed easier once he confirmed they were the men he’d been waiting for and not trail hands or strangers coming into town. Buck straightened up in his chair, his usual easy smile appearing. “See? Told ya they were alright.”

Chris rolled his eyes.He growled out a half-hearted warning. “Don’t make me belt you one, Buck.”

The ladies man just waggled his eyebrows, smile still firmly in place. He reached out and patted Chris on the shoulder. “Don’t worry, big dog, your secret is safe with me.I won’t tell ‘em you were worried.”

Chris shot a dirty look at Buck, but knew it was wasted on the man. Subduing the other fun-loving cowboy was no easy task, a personality trait Chris found himself honestly grateful for. He wouldn’t be sane or sober were it not for Buck.But there were still times when he wished he could intimidate the man with a glare as easily as he could most of the townspeople.

Chris shook his head and redirected his gaze to Vin, Ezra and Nathan. At least they’re riding together.Figure if there was too much trouble ‘tween ‘em they wouldn’t be quite so close. And no one is sporting any bandages, black eyes, or split lips.

After sitting to wait for so long he suddenly couldn’t stand the idea of sitting any more.Chris rose to his feet and casually leaned against the support pillar, waiting for the three to stop in front of him the way he knew they would. Buck chuckled, a knowing look on his face as he also rose to his feet.The tall cowboy leaned on another nearby pillar, his pose a mirror image of Chris’.

Ezra brought Chaucer to a halt with some unseen signal. Peso and Buster also stopped, lining up in front of Chris with a near military precision. The gambler tipped his head toward Chris and Buck. “Mr. Larabee. Mr. Wilmington.”

Vin just smiled slightly and nodded his greeting. Nathan did likewise.

Chris pursed his lips, looking them over.He could read some lingering tension, but nothing major. There was just something about the set of Vin’s shoulders; the slight hesitation in Nathan’s manner, the way he held his eyes. Chris couldn’t read anything from Ezra, but he was used to that. It was rare that the gambler gave away much of anything. Still, I know something happened.Can’t tell if it’s good or bad though.

“Boys.”He greeted them as he usually did.

“Y’all get Miz Nettie’s roof taken care of?” Buck asked.

“Yep.” Vin answered. “Weren’t too tough ta fix.”

Nathan added commentary on what they had to do, but Chris tuned him out. He pinned Vin with his gaze, silently asking how everything else went, the state of Nettie’s roof not honestly being his main concern. The tracker just barely tipped his head, signaling he’d talk to Chris later. The gunslinger wasn’t happy, already feeling off kilter from the waiting he’d done, but he wasn’t going to argue. Can’t see how I could win anyway. And I know he’ll talk to me…just a matter of finding a good time to do it is all.

Chaucer shifted his weight, stomping one foot, and swishing his tail. Chris would swear sometimes that damn horse was almost human the way he expressed his emotions and opinions. And it was blatantly obvious that Chaucer didn’t see much point in standing still, doing nothing. Ezra smiled and dipped his head to Chris and Buck. “If you gentlemen would be so kind as to excuse me, I believe my steed would like to take a well deserved respite from his labors.”

When Vin would have nudged Peso to join his lover, Chris shook his head slightly, stopping him, urging his friend to wait.Nathan had already nudged Buster to move with Chaucer down the street. The two rode companionably side by side down the street toward the livery.The tracker raised an eyebrow, expression asking why Chris had stopped him.

“Thought they could use a minute.”

Vin sighed. “Probably.”

The fact that he didn’t argue made Chris even more curious as to what happened. Buck cocked his head to one side, blue eyes narrowed, a faint frown appearing between his brows.“Trouble?” There was an amazing amount of concern and support offered in that one word question.

Chris realized that Buck was not as confident everything would work out as he had sounded earlier. You’d think that for as long as I’ve known the man, I’d be able to see through him by now. But then knowing Buck, he really did believe what he said. Just worried now that me might be wrong.

“Nothing that weren’t wrong when we left.” Vin replied, answering Buck’s question with a weary smile. “Ez says we’re making progress, but I ain’t sure I see it.”

Chris’ jaw tightened. His gaze flickered to Ezra and Nathan. They appeared to be more or less as comfortable with one another as they normally did. Looks like they’ll be okay on their own for a bit. The gunslinger’s blue-gray eyes shifted back toward the tracker. “Think I need the whole story, Cowboy.”

Vin glanced up the street.Nathan had ridden inside already, but Ezra paused at the livery door, glancing back toward Vin.Despite the distance, Chris was sure their eyes met. He had no idea what message might have been conveyed, but Vin shrugged, and Ezra nodded before heading inside with Chaucer.

Vin dismounted with his usual grace and agility.Chris had expected the tracker to loop the reins around the hitching post, but Vin flipped the reins so they would hang from the saddlehorn and not tangle in Peso’s hooves. He stepped away from Peso when Ezra reappeared in the livery door. Ezra raised his fingers to his lips and let out a piercing whistle.Peso snorted, and trotted up the street, making a beeline for Ezra.

Buck laughed, and slapped his thigh.“Jus’ how long you two been workin’ on that little trick?”

Vin shrugged one shoulder.“Not long.”

Chris wondered if this was more evidence of Vin’s ability to understate things. Probably worked day and night for weeks to teach that ornery horse to come when Ezra called. Lord only knows when they found the time to do it at all.

Chris pointed toward the saloon with his chin. “Let’s get a drink.”

They sat at the seven’s usual table.It was almost always vacant.Chris secretly found it amusing that their claim had been staked and honored without a single word having been said. It was simply their table, and everyone knew it. The more wary often left the neighboring tables vacant, just to be on the safe side.

Buck sipped the beer he’d retrieved from the bar before taking his seat.He sat back in his chair, bright blue eyes focused on Vin. “So tell us what happened?”

Vin sighed, and slouched further in his seat, not leaning back it back on two legs as he usually did.The tracker quietly filled them in on what had occurred at Nettie’s. He told them about pointing out the assumptions Nathan had made, assumptions Chris found himself silently admitting to having mistakenly made as well. Should have known better.

The tracker shrugged one shoulder.“Thought he was startin’ ta understand when he said he was thinkin’ on what I said. Told him ta ask Ez. That if he really wanted ta know things about the man he should talk to him.” Vin sighed heavily. “Then he goes and all but calls Ez a liar.”

Chris frowned. “Back up. I think I missed something. Why would he call Ezra a liar?”

Vin pursed his lips.“Ez was saying that Peso needed some retraining on account o’ the way he acts sometimes.”

Buck saluted that statement with his beer.“Man is right about that.That horse is one ornery son of a bitch.”

Vin gave him a dirty look.“Nothin’ wrong with my horse, Buck.He does ‘xactly what I tell ‘im to.”

Chris interrupted before the conversation could get too far off topic. “And Peso acting up led to Nate calling Ezra a liar how?”

“I said the only qualified horse trainer Yosemite knew was Ezra.”

Buck raised both eyebrows.“Ezra trains horses?”

“Yep.”

“Well, I’ll be damned.”Buck blinked.“Always knew he was good with Chaucer. Taught that miserable critter all sorts o’ stuff, so I guess it ain’t much of a stretch ta think he could train another horse a thing or two.”

Chris felt a flash of satisfaction at knowing something his old friend didn’t. He might not have known Ezra was teaching children in town until the gambler told him, but he hadn’t failed to note the amount of time Ezra spent at the livery. The gunslinger had a love for horses that ran deep, and he was quick to note a similar depth of emotion in the gambler. He’d seen the conman working with several different horses, and had asked Yosemite about it. Yosemite told me Ezra said he was just doing it to ensure there would be a quality replacement mount for him to use if Chaucer should ever come up lame or needed a break. But we both know damn good and well the man just loves working with horses. Same way he loves working with the children.And he’s mighty good with both.

Vin’s half smile appeared.He was obviously pleased by Buck’s comments. The smile faded quickly though. “Problem was Nate was quick ta say he didn’t think Ez could do it. Thought Ez was too much of a dandy ta be willing or able ta spend the time and energy ta get the job done.”

Chris shook his head. It had taken him awhile to realize it, but despite the odd hours the gambler kept, the man was anything but lazy. And he never had cause to doubt the man’s ability with horses. Just watching the man ride, and the shit he can get Chaucer to do was proof enough of how good he is with horses.

“Ezra get pissed?”Chris thought it would be natural if he did. Know I would.

Vin dipped his head.“Not fer long though.Ez ain’t the sort to really lose his temper fer long.”

Buck sipped his beer, not quite covering the small smile Chris saw there. He knew Buck thought Vin’s statement as further proof he’d been right.He kicked Buck under the table for that not so subtle ‘I told you so’ gesture. Buck gave him a dirty look in response.

“You said he thought progress was being made.”Chris made the statement more of a question, once again focused on Vin.

“Said there was a time when Nate wouldn’t have asked him a question, much less bothered ta listen ta the answer.Ez reckons that’s a step in the right direction.”

Man has a point there. Just to make sure he was clear on the issue, Chris asked, “And Nate was asking question before this problem came up?”

“Yep.”

“But you don’t see that as positive a sign as Ezra does?”

Vin shrugged, brows pulling together in a small frown. “Was just hopin’ for more I guess.”

Buck’s expression turned sympathetic.“Won’t happen over night, Vin.Ya know that.Man don’t change the habit of a life time as easy as he does his clothes.”

Vin chuckled. “Ez pretty much said the same thing.”Blue eyes twinkled with mischief.“But he said it a whole lot better.”

Buck rolled his eyes.“O’ course he said it better.The man has a gift with words.”Buck waggled his eyebrows, a warm grin growing. “Just like I got a gift with the ladies.”

“Think Ez got the better deal there, Bucklin.” Vin laughed lightly, and sat back in his chair, tipping it back as he usually did. “Least his gift don’t ever seem ta let him down.”

Buck feigned indignation.“My animal magnetism has never let me down.”

“Uh-hunh.” Vin arched an eyebrow. “You keep tellin’ yourself that every time Inez shoots you down.”

Buck snorted. “I keep tellin’ you, I’m wearing her down.”

Vin shook his head, eyes bright with inner amusement. “Suurre, ya are.”

Chris was pleased to see the younger man relax.He could understand the impatience Vin had to be feeling. It seemed a bit out of character for a man who normally didn’t get ruffled by much, but Chris could still remember feeling the same way wondering if Sarah’s parents and family would ever finally accept him. Nathan isn’t exactly like having in-laws, but we are a family of sorts. An’ everyone wants their family ta welcome his choice of… well, I guess spouse don’t really fit here. Same idea though.

He suspected Vin was more patient with him because he was already starting to see the light where Ezra was concerned, recognizing and rectifying his own misconceptions. Chris was honest enough with himself to admit a shove or two from Vin had helped the process along. His initial reservations were more about the nature of their relationship, rather than Ezra per se. Vin was sharp enough to realize that as long as Chris accepted Ezra, he would eventually accept their relationship unconditionally.

And that’s really the heart of the problem with Nathan. He said he’s okay with them being together, but he’s got issues with Ezra that need to be settled ‘fore Vin’s really gonna believe that. But I think Buck is right. With some time this should all work out in the end.

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully, wondering if he ought to interfere again. Didn’t do too bad first time around.Well, so far as I know. Think I might need to talk to Ezra and see if he’ll cough up more details than Vin did.Doubt it, but won’t know until I ask. And Ezra thought there was progress being made. Sounds positive at any rate.

Chris glanced up when Ezra and Nathan wandered in. It didn’t appear as if the few minutes alone in the livery had done any damage.Nathan, at least, seemed more at ease, something Chris had no doubt Ezra had something to do with.The gambler had a way of relaxing hostility and reducing the tension that came with disagreement.

Chris couldn’t really read much from Ezra, so he looked to Vin. If anyone could get a handle on what Ezra was thinking or feeling in just a glance it was the tracker. Vin’s blue eyes sought out Ezra’s green counterparts. He smiled slightly and got an answering smile in return. The gambler took the seat next to Vin, and Chris relaxed. If things were still ‘off’ Ezra wouldn’t have joined them at the table, nor would Vin seem so relaxed.

Nathan sat next to Buck.Dark eyes glanced toward Vin and then away. Chris was fairly certain the healer was trying to gauge Vin’s mood. The gunslinger found the irony amusing.If he’d have called any other man a liar, it would be that guy he’d be worried about. It would be that guy he’d be eyeballing for a drawn gun or a fist. Chris mentally snorted. Sometimes I think things would be easier if Ezra just acted like the rest of us. If he was inclined to be as uncivilized as he accuses us of being…to just react on those violent impulses, I doubt Nathan would have even opened his mouth.

Vin gave cast a sly glance toward Chris.That look was enough to let Chris know Vin was aware of his thoughts. The tracker hadn’t missed Nathan’s covert glances either. Chris waited to see if Vin was going to make things hard on Nathan or not. When Vin ordered a round of drinks he smiled, pleased that his friend had opted not to push the issue. Think he realizes it won’t help. Not that he’s forgotten it by any stretch of the imagination. Pretty sure he’ll be watching Nate close.

With the arrival of the drinks the atmosphere at the table slipped easily into their normal camaraderie. Conversation drifted comfortably to what had gone on in town during their absence, and what other damages had been suffered in the area as a result of the storm. It was the same sort of catch up talk that went on whenever any of them left town, no matter how briefly. Chris let it flow around him, not feeling any obligation to contribute, knowing it wasn’t really expected that he do so. He reflected that sometimes it was nice to have a reputation for being close-mouthed. It left him free to simply observe the others. Observe and plan.

First order of business is to talk to Ezra. Can catch him alone tonight before the saloon closes.Know he’ll be here until then.And I might get more out of him if it’s just the two of us.

Chris sipped his drink, eyes and ears taking in everything around him, even as he continued to focus on the problem.What he needed was a chance to talk with Nathan. But he wanted it to be natural, not forced. If he cornered the other man he wouldn’t get anywhere. Bit like leading a horse to water; you can’t make him drink. He smiled, finally hitting on the perfect time and place.

Yosemite got three new horses a few days ago. Know he wanted Ezra ta take a look at them, maybe get a feel for how much work they might need. But Ezra’s been laid up since that damn brawl. Be willing to bet he’ll be in the livery tomorrow.Nathan didn’t object to him riding out of town today, and Ezra is bound to interpret that as him being ready to get back to his usual routine. Which means...other than him bugging me about being put back on the duty roster, he’ll be in the livery, and likely working with those horses.Shouldn’t be too hard ta get Nathan there. Give us a chance to talk while he sees for himself that Ezra is good with more than just cards.

Chris nodded to himself, satisfied with his plan.All he needed to do was put it into action, and hope like hell nothing went wrong.He silently wished himself luck and downed the last of his drink.

*******

Chris had gone in search of Nathan, ready to put his plan into action. He scowled when he’d found the clinic empty. It was usually the best place to find the man. Chris knew he wasn’t in saloon having come from there.He’d past the restaurant on his way to the clinic so he knew Nathan wasn’t there either.Damn.Got a plan and now I can’t even set it in motion. He sighed, venting some of his frustration and disappointment in that simple gesture.

Okay, fine. Guess I’ll just have to do it another day. Don’t mean I can’t watch Ezra work the horses though.

Generally the gambler rode whatever horse he was working with on patrol or when he went on rides with Vin, combining the training sessions with his other pastimes. It was a sound practice once a horse had been broken to accept saddle, bridle and rider. It made sense to simply ride the horse when all he really wanted or needed to teach it was to respond to its rider. Simple things really, like adjusting and maintaining gait, recognizing the commands of heel and rein. But when he worked in the corral it was worth watching. It was then that Ezra turned a basically trained animal into a well-schooled mount.

As a devout student of horsemenship, he could readily appreciate the effort and skill that went into turning out a truly polished steed. So whenever he had the time, Chris made sure he was there to observe the spectacle.There was no doubt in his mind that Ezra had been the one to teach Chaucer all the tricks the gelding knew.

Chris closed the door to the clinic and headed down the stairs.He passed through the livery to the corral in back. He stopped cold in the doorway. Leaning casually against the wall, hidden in the shadow it cast, was Nathan.

Looks like I don’t need to get him here after all.Chris smirked.Might work better this way.

The dark clad gunslinger sauntered over to stand nearby. His eyes focused on Ezra. The gambler was dressed as simply as he had yesterday. Having seen Ezra working in the corral before, his garb didn’t surprise Chris at all. He realized that there was a practical aspect to the gambler that Ezra normally took pains to keep carefully hidden. There is definitely more to that man than meets the eye.

Ezra was working with a blood bay filly.Chris took time to admire the clean lines of the horse, and the smoothness of her gait.She was small, stocky, built for short burst of speed, and sudden moves. Ezra was taking advantage of her responsive nature by putting her through complicated footwork that Chris realized would make her a top-notch cow pony.

Ezra was working her at slow trot, moving in a figure eight pattern that became progressively smaller.He started by utilizing the entire length and breadth of the corral, and then gradually worked inwards before widening out again. He encouraged her to change direction with subtle shifts in body weight and heel cues.Chris was pleased to see Ezra’s touch on the rein was light, not sawing on her mouth or jerking her head.

Many young horses found the pattern and direction changes to be awkward, clumsy even, especially when asked to do them quickly. They tended to baulk, making jerky and uncoordinated transitions instead of easy, natural ones.But Ezra had her moving smoothly, offering reassurance and encouragement with both body and voice, helping the filly find her feet comfortably and move confidently.

Even with a well-trained horse that possessed good balance and agility, the gunslinger knew how much work it took to maintain a steady seat when your mount was changing direction so frequently. Ezra made it look easy. Little shit could be on a cavalry parade ground.

Chris cast a sly look toward Nathan.He spoke quietly, not wanting his voice to carry any further than the man next to him.“Man seems to know what he’s doing.Doesn’t he?”

Nathan started sharply.He obviously hadn’t noticed Chris’ arrival, or realized anyone was standing quite so close. His hand had partially raised to reach for the knives he wore on his back before stopping with a sheepish smile when he recognized Chris.

“Damn, Chris. You’re getting as bad as Vin sneaking up on a man like that.”

Chris smirked. “I didn’t sneak, Nate.” He pointed with his chin toward the corral. “Seems ta me your were just otherwise occupied.”

Nathan sighed, his gaze returning to Ezra.“Just wanted to see for myself…”He glanced over to Chris again.“You knew about him doing this?”

Chris nodded. “Yep.Been watching him train the horses whenever I get a chance. Always a pleasure to watch someone who can do it right.”

Nathan shook his head, a bemused expression on his face. “Who else knows about this?”

Chris figured the healer was trying to gauge his level of ignorance, find out if he was the only one who didn’t know.“Other than me, Vin and Yosemite…think JD probably knows. Kid seems to be up on a lot of what goes on around town.” There was a touch of pride in Chris’ last statement. Kid has come a long way from the greenhorn I met a year ago.

“I know.” Nathan grimaced and hung his head. He had the good grace to look embarrassed. “Wanted to say I was sorry about that. Tried to tell Vin, but he didn’t want to hear it. And Ezra…well, he sort of brushed me off.Told me yesterday when we were in here not to worry about it. Said it didn’t really matter.”

Chris nodded. That fell in line with what Ezra had told him yesterday.The conman had brushed it off as being unimportant, trival, nothing to worry about or cause a fuss over.He’d dismissed the incident as a simple misunderstanding while relating even fewer details than Vin had.He’d been quick to assure Chris that it would not affect their working relationship.He was also quick to tell Chris it would not endanger the other lawmen or Four Corners in any way. As if that’s all I was worried about.Damn fool.

Nathan shook his head.“He apologized to me, like it was his fault. Any other man would have belted me one or shot me. But Ezra…he actually said he was sorry for losing his temper.Said he had overreacted, and that I didn’t have cause to worry, that it wouldn’t happen again.”He sighed heavily, dark eyes anxious, confused. “I just don’t understand that man.”

Chris chuckled softly all too familiar with that feeling. “Don’t think anyone but Vin really does.” Chris smiled slightly, pleased to see the healer was starting to see come around.He raised an eyebrow.“You come here ta tell him that you don’t understand him?”

Nathan shook his head.“No.Just wanted to say I was sorry.Wanted him to know I know I was wrong. That what happened yesterday wasn’t his fault. It was mine.Meant ta tell him ‘fore he got started.” The healer sighed again, a note of surprise in his voice. “But he started earlier than I thought he would.”

“He is always prompt when it’s important.” Chris casually observed. In the time he’d known Ezra, the gambler had only ever been late for morning patrol.His timing for everything else was impeccable.

Chris leaned against the wall, settling in to get comfortable. He still intended to enjoy watching Ezra work. Ezra let the filly slow to a walk and blow for a moment or two before resuming the pattern. “How long you been watching?”

“About half an hour or so.”

“You learn anything?”

Nathan’s expression turned wry.“Just that the man is a damn sight better with horses than I realized.”

Chris resisted the urge to roll his eyes. He had hoped the healer might have come to some greater insight than that. Well, it’s a place ta start anyway.Man is learning something.Better than nothing./

Nathan turned to watch Ezra work, studiously avoiding looking at Chris. “Beginning to see there was a lot about him I never realized.”He said it almost as though it were a confession.

“Like what?” Chris kept the question casual, as if the answer were of only passing interest. It wouldn’t do for Nathan to know just how important the answer was. He didn’t want the healer to stop talking, nor did he want the other man to feel cornered.

Nathan sighed softly, brown eyes still tracking Ezra’s movements as he again slowed the filly to a walk.The gambler let her circle the corral at a walk. “Figured every jacket the man owned was bright, colorful. Never really thought he’d own anything…plain, ordinary. Never figured he’d be sensible about stuff like clothes. Half expected him ta be working down here in that fancy red coat he likes so much.”Nathan’s tone was enough to convey just how inappropriate he thought Ezra’s favorite jacket was for his current activity.

Chris shrugged one shoulder.He never really gave clothing much thought. Although, he did admit to cursing Ezra’s distinctive jackets on more than one occasion when their bright colors made the gambler an easy target. He’d also had cause to be grateful for them when it made the man easier to locate.

“Sort o’ stands to reason he’d have something ta wear that he didn’t mind getting ruined.” Even if we don’t see it very often. Chris’ lips twitched, fighting a smile, remembering something Ezra had said. A gentleman must maintain appearances and dressing like a common saddle bum is not conducive to doing that.

“Quality clothing is tough ta come by out here and I don’t think anyone knows that better than Ezra. Only natural that he’d want to take care o’ what he has.”

Nathan grimaced.“Always figured he had so much he didn’t value it same way you and I might.”

“And you don’t think so now?”Chris pulled a cheroot from his pocket. He didn’t light it, just held it between his teeth.

“I don’t know.” Nathan admitted. “But Vin was right when he told me I’d been assuming a lot about Ezra.I just figured he grew up in a big, fancy house with a passel of servants. Never really asked the man a thing ‘bout his past until yesterday.”

“And what did he tell ya?”Chris was genuinely curious.Neither Vin nor Ezra mentioned that.

“He moved around as a kid.A lot.”Nathan shook his head.“Only mentioned two places though.One was New Orleans, the other was Virginia. Weren’t at all what I expected. He didn’t grow up as some spoiled rich kid, Chris.”

The fact that Ezra had moved around a great deal as a child was not news to Chris. Vin had shared that detail several months ago when he’d explained why it was that the gambler had reacted so badly to Josiah’s repeated reference to him as ‘son’, and why Ezra tended to keep some physical distance between himself and others. While Vin had not mentioned specific places, Virginia came as no surprise to Chris.Just listening to Ezra speak one could figure out he’d spent some time there.   What did surprise him was Nathan’s conclusion that those frequent moves invalidated his assumption that Ezra had lived well. Moving around doesn’t mean they were poor. Not necessarily.So…what else did Ezra say that made Nathan realize he was wrong?

Chris waited. He knew the healer would keep talking if he just held his peace.Nathan shifted his weight, settling more solidly against the wall, eyes still following Ezra as he worked the filly.The black man chewed on his lower lip.

“He stayed in a whore house when he was in New Orleans.” Nathan swallowed hard. “He was six years old.”

The former slave glanced over at Chris.“Said it was one of the most profitable in New Orleans. Got the idea it was a pretty posh place, but it’s still a cat house.Said the lady who ran the place was some kind of family friend, and that Maude didn’t mind him being there.Never would have imagined he’d have anything like that in common with Buck.”

Chris nearly bit his cigar in half in astonishment. “Maude worked in a whore house?”

Nathan’s eyes widened, and then he chuckled.“Don’t know if she did or not.Can’t quite see her doing that.”He sobered.“Sort o’ got the impression that she wasn’t there. Was just some place she could leave him for awhile.”

What sort of mother leaves a child at cat house? I mean, Buck’s momma worked there, she didn’t have anywhere else to go. I’m sure she’d have taken him some more appropriate for a child if she could have. Christ!Larabee, when are you gonna learn? You already know what she did to Ezra when he was thirteen. Vin told you that, you stupid SOB.He also told you she left him with people that weren’t fit to keep a dog much less a child.You really shouldn’t be surprised by this bit of information

Chris took a deep breath, and then another.“He…uh…he say if he liked being there?” Oh please tell me that he wasn’t subjected to abuse there. Please.

Nathan shrugged.“Seemed like he did.Got the impression he was real fond of the lady who ran the place.” His expression turned rueful. “Sure was quick to defend her.”

Chris raised an eyebrow, wondering about Nathan’s last statement. He chose not to ask. He was relieved to know that the gambler appeared to like the place. Chris found it heartening that not every where Ezra had stayed as a child had left scars.

“And the place in Virginia he mentioned?”

“Stayed with his uncle.From the way he talked about him, I’m pretty sure he liked him a lot. Got the impression his uncle was fond o’ Ezra too.”

Chris nodded, digesting that tidbit.He was beginning to think maybe he should spend some time alone with Vin and Ezra.It seemed like Nathan learned more in one day than he had in one year. Chris almost felt jealous.

Focus here. The whole point of this was ta see if you couldn’t bring Nathan around to really seeing Ezra.Course, seems a bit like Ezra might just have done that on his own. Chris smiled. He reminded himself, yet again, to not underestimate the conman.

He looked to the corral.Ezra had stopped the filly in the center. He had her back up several steps. She tried to turn, uncomfortable with moving backward, but Ezra had her well in hand, getting her to do what he asked without having to force it.She snorted, tossing her head when Ezra allowed her to stand still. He patted her neck. Chris could see the gambler’s lips moving, but whatever he said was too soft to be heard.

Ezra used a steady pressure from his right leg, while keeping a tight rein, signaling that he didn’t want her to move forward, but rather to pivot her hindquarters, turning in place.When he’d gotten her to turn a full circle, he then sent her around in the opposite direction.He let her step out in a walk, moving once around the enclosure before turning her toward the gate.

“Nate…why don’t you get that gate for him?” Chris suggested, pulling a match out to light his cigarillo.

The healer stepped forward, reaching the gate the same time Ezra did.Ezra had just shifted his weight to step down, but resumed his seat at seeing Nathan’s approach.If he was surprised to see Nathan, it didn’t show.

“Let me get that for you, Ezra.”Nathan offered even as he opened the gate.

“Thank you, Mr. Jackson.”Ezra tipped his head politely.The filly moved easily through the gate and into the livery. The gambler raised an eyebrow when he noticed Chris leaning against wall, just inside the doorway, but he didn’t comment. Ezra dismounted and looped the reins around a nearby post.

When Ezra dismounted, Chris was surprised to note the saddle he’d been using was not his own but a McClellan Cavalry saddle.“Joining the army, Ez?”

“Pardon?” Ezra turned from where he was undoing the cinch to look at Chris.

The gunslinger pointed to the saddle.“If I’m not mistaken that’s a McClellan.”

“You are indeed correct.”Ezra smiled, dimples appearing for a moment. “However, I have no intention of joining the rank and file of the military, Chris.I simply find the lighter weight of this saddle to be easier on younger animals, such as this pretty little lady.”Ezra patted the filly’s shoulder.   “And its minimal nature makes greater connection between mount and rider easier to accomplish.”

“She one of Yosemite’s new ones?”Chris asked even though he already knew the answer. He had seen Nathan lurking in the doorway and thought keeping the conversation going might draw the other man all the way back into the livery.

“She is indeed a recent acquisition.”Ezra lifted the saddle from her back, and moved to place it on a near by rack. He retrieved a set of brushes that lay near by.They were not the same ones he used on Chaucer. Chris figured these belonged to Yosemite.

Ezra’s hands moved in sure, deft strokes.Chris knew it helped to add some sort of treat to the training, encouraging the animal to look forward to being worked, rather than being afraid, or hostile. If the filly’s stood hip shot posture, and half-closed eyes were anything to go by, she clearly enjoyed the attention.

“What’s her name?” Nathan asked. Chris was pleased he’d finally joined them.

“I believe the moniker Yosemite intends to ascribe to her is Rusty.” Ezra made a mou of distaste, hands continuing to move in a steady rhythm.“Such a name is hardly fitting for a lovely lady. I believe I shall have to convince him to allow her to be graced with a more appropriate appellation.”

“What ya got in mind, Ez?”He couldn’t resist asking, curious as to what name the gambler would come up with.

The gambler smiled.“Carmine.”

Chris felt an answering smile tug at his lips. The name seemed to fit her far better than ‘Rusty’. He puffed on his cigar, content to wait and see if Nathan would say anything.

“Will she be as nice to ride as Buster?”Nathan asked.

“Better. Once properly schooled. ”Ezra answered confidently.“Her gait is smoother.She is more responsive, more agile, and sure-footed than Buster. Although, Buster makes up for that by being stronger, calmer and having greater endurance.” The conman shrugged one shoulder. “So to be fair, Mr. Jackson, which one is better depends on what task you intend to perform.”

The gambler stopped brushing for a moment. Eyes flickered between Chris and Nathan before his hands resumed their task. “Was there something you gentlemen required?” Ezra raised an eyebrow, green eyes shuttered, giving away nothing but friendly curiosity.

Chris decided to answer honestly. Well, more or less.Okay, less than more.“Just like watching you work.”

Ezra’s blatant look of disbelief lasted for less than a second, but Chris saw it. His next expression managed to somehow convey the same look Chris’ mother used to give him when she knew he’d lied. The gunslinger scowled. How the hell did he know I didn’t tell him everything? He was not going to feel guilty. He hadn’t done anything wrong.

Ezra ducked his head for a moment, and Chris suspected the other man was hiding a smile.He glared, knowing it was a futile gesture. He couldn’t really put as much heat into that look as he normally would.Ezra knowing him that well somehow didn’t seem like something to be upset about.

The conman turned his head, green eyes meeting Nathan’s darker counterparts squarely. “And you Mr. Jackson? You have come to satisfy your curiosity no doubt.” Ezra’s tone was neutral, no sarcasm or hostility, a simple statement of facts.

Nathan nodded. He glanced toward Chris. The gunslinger could almost feel Nathan’s reluctance, knowing the man probably didn’t really want an audience when he apologized.Chris considered leaving, giving them some privacy when Nathan hesitantly admitted, “Wanted ta see ya work the horses for myself.”

“And did you see enough to satisfy you?”

“Yeah.” Nathan took deep breath. “I am sorry about yester—“

“I’ve already told you, Mr. Jackson, it isn’t necessary.” Ezra made a dismissive motion with one hand.

“Yes it is.” Nathan insisted firmly. He stepped forward, closer to Ezra. “I was wrong. About a lot of things.” The last was offered quietly, contritely. “I know it. Know you do to.”

Nathan sighed. “Just let me apologize. Please.”

Ezra studied the other man for a minute.Chris didn’t know what he was looking for, but he kept a wary eye on Nathan, ready to intervene if necessary. Don’t say anything stupid. Just don’t. Let him think…You’re off to a good start here…Don’t push.

The gambler tipped his head. “Very well, Mr. Jackson. If you really feel so strongly that you need to--”

“I do.” Nathan was quick to interrupt, not giving Ezra a chance to change his mind. “Never should have been so quick to jump to conclusions. It wasn’t fair to you.” He smiled ruefully. “Wasn’t fair to me either.”

Both of Ezra’s eyebrows rose.“Unfair to you?I’m not certain I follow.”

“Thinking I knew who you were means I was missing out on the chance to really get to know you.” Nathan explained quietly.“I’ve been thinking I’ll like the man I never met better than the one I thought you were.”

“You might be mistaken about that.”Ezra’s voice was soft, but the self-deprecating tone was readily apparent.

Chris frowned. He wanted to tell Ezra he was wrong, to convince him that there was nothing wrong with who and what he was. Since I finally got my head on straight about him, I’m right proud to call him friend. He couldn’t help but smile when Nathan beat him to it.

Nathan spoke resolutely, leaving no room for doubt. “Seems to me, underneath them big words, fine clothes, and fancy manners is real good guy.One I’d be proud to call friend.”He hesitated for a beat.“That is if ya still want to be.”

Ezra smiled easily, warmly.He casually tossed one brush to Chris who caught it without thinking. Ezra stuck out his right hand. “Ezra P. Standish, Sir.”

Nathan grinned, shaking Ezra’s hand.“Nathan Jackson.Real pleasure to meet you.”

“The pleasure, Sir, is mine.”

Nathan chuckled.He sobered quickly though, brown eyes earnest. “Can’t promise I won’t slip up now and again, Ezra. But I really am going to try my best not to. You have my word on that.”

Ezra nodded. “That is all any one can ask of another.Your best, Mr. Jackson, will be more than sufficient.”

“Ya think that since we’re starting fresh here…well sorta…that you could call me Nathan?”

Ezra’s expression did not change but his eyes sparkled, giving away his pleasure at hearing Nathan’s request.“Certainly, Nathan.”

Chris breathed easier, fully relaxing for the first time since he’d spotted Nathan in the livery.This had gone better than he expected. He wasn’t naïve enough to believe there wouldn’t be further misunderstandings, but Nathan was no more inclined to give his word lightly than Ezra or Vin.He’d try to keep it, and Ezra knew it.

“You done for the day, Ez?”He asked.“I’m thinking a drink in the saloon would be good about now.”

“There is a roan gelding that I’d like to work with before calling it a day. I have been lax in my responsibilities lately. But I do appreciate the offer.”

Chris snorted. “Don’t think lax is how I’d describe it. Nothing wrong with giving yourself time to heal up.”

“Nonetheless, there are tasks that remain to be completed.”

“You mind if we stay and watch the show?” Nathan asked.

“You are more than welcome to observe.” The gambler shrugged one shoulder. He pulled the filly’s reins loose from where he’d looped them earlier, putting his remaining brush on a nearby shelf. As he started to lead her toward the side corral where Yosemite usually turned the stock out he commented, “Although, I fail to see what could possibly be so interesting. This town really suffers from a dearth of quality entertainment.”

Chris shook his head.He shared an amused look with Nathan. They waited for Ezra to return. He came back leading the roan gelding he’d mentioned.

“What’s this ones name?” Chris asked, wondering if Ezra thought the gelding might need a name changes as well. He suspected he did. Yosemite just isn’t real imaginative when it comes to naming his horse.

“I believe he as been dubbed ‘Freckles’.”The gambler laughed, patting the horse on the shoulder as he did so.

Nathan grinned. “You gonna recommend something better for him too?”

Ezra cocked his head to one side.“I will leave it to you gentlemen to find a more fitting moniker.” He winked. “We can discuss what you come up with over a drink when I have finished with ‘Freckles’ lesson.”

“Sounds good, Ez.”Chris smiled.

*******

Vin sighed, comfortable and content.He sat on the floor, with his back braced against the bed, legs stretched out in front of him, crossed at the ankles. Ezra sat on the bed, legs spread almost cradling Vin in a warm embrace. The gambler’s agile fingers gently worked their way through Vin’s long hair, freeing knots and tangles smoothly, without tugging or pulling. Vin had washed it earlier, but had done no more than run his fingers through it, preferring to let Ezra do a more thorough job with it.His hair would shine when Ezra was finished, the curls temporarily tamed into smooth, cascading waves.

Were it possible, he’d stay where he was forever. Of all the pleasures Ezra had introduced to him, few rivaled simply letting Ezra brush his hair.Vin sighed again, enjoying the feel of soft bristles running over his scalp, massaging slightly as they did.

Ezra told him about his meeting with Chris and Nathan in the stable, his hands never halting in their steady, almost hypnotic rhythm. Vin made a small sound of approval. He was pleased with how well things had turned out, having not expected Nathan to come around so soon.

About time they are on first name basis. Makes Chris, Buck, JD, and now Nathan. Still gonna keep an eye on Nate for a bit though.Just in case.Not that I think he’ll go back on his word. Nate ain’t the kind o’ man to do that intentionally. But the man has a lifetime o’ habit ta overcome, and well shit happens.Best to be prepared for when it does. And speakin’ o’ being prepared, we still got Josiah ta worry about.

“You think o’ some way ta tell Josiah ‘bout us?”

Ezra’s hands stilled for a moment before resuming their task. “As yet…no.” The gambler chuckled softly. “To be honest, Cheri, I was more worried about how things would turn out with Nathan since you seemed rather bent on that course of action.”

“Worked out all right.”Vin felt compelled to point out.

“It did indeed.”He felt Ezra place a kiss in his hair. “But I am still not sure it was worth the risk. He and I had…if not an equitable relationship, at the very least an understanding.It was not absolutely necessary to force the issue.”

Vin snorted. “Understanding…yeah, right. That’s what ya got now, not what ya had then.”He squeezed one of Ezra’s legs.“Youare worth any risk. And it was necessary.” He kept his voice low, but firm. He wanted his lover to believe that. He received a quick squeeze of his shoulder by way of acknowledgement.

“Do you think it might be wise to involve the others in finding a way to inform Josiah?”

Vin considered that.Chris had been helpful with Nathan.He might be able to help with Josiah as well. And I already told Chris that we might have ta tell Josiah rather than wait for him ta ask.

“Might not be a bad idea.”Vin chuckled dryly.“Especially since neither o’ us seem to know how ta do it.”

Ezra laughed softly.“Call up reinforcements?”

“Sure.” Vin agreed easily. “What good is having the other four knowing and being in our corner if we ain’t gonna make the most of it?”

“A good point.” Ezra agreed. Vin could hear the smile in his lover’s voice even if he couldn’t see it.“However, I think it might be nice if we just allowed ourselves some time to enjoy the fact that for the moment, all is right with the world.”

“Sure, Ez.” Vin could understand that sentiment.It was one he shared. Be nice to just sort o’ relax. Not worry ‘bout it.Don’t gotta jump from frying pan to the fire right this minute. An’ I know he isn’t trying ta avoid the whole issue…any more than I am.Just want to breath for a bit. “It’ll keep.”

Ezra’s arms came around to circle his chest in a loose hug. The gambler’s lips brushed against his ear. “We are agreed then?” That question was whisper soft, little more than a puff of warm air.

Vin shivered when Ezra’s warm, wet tongue that traced the curve of his ear. “I think enough of today has been focused elsewhere, Cheri.”Another soft whisper.“There are better, more important things for us to devote our energies on.”

The lanky tracker swallowed hard, his buckskin pants suddenly way too tight. The only thing better than letting Ezra brush his hair, was making love. “You…ah…think there is something else we should maybe spend some time doing.”

“Definitely.” Ezra’s lips found that spot on his neck that made him go weak in the knees. The gambler sucked lightly, and then oh so gently nibbled. “Something far more…enjoyable. Don’t you agree?”

Vin grinned, turning just enough so that he could make eye contact. Like I’m gonna say no to that.“Definitely.”

Chris had not yet put Ezra back on the patrol roster, telling the gambler to take one more day before resuming his full duties. That meant they had the rest of the evening, and the wee hours of the morning to focus on each other. Would have ta be a damn fool to not take advantage o’ that. Neither one o’ us is fools.

Vin smiled as he reached up to pull Ezra close enough to kiss, intent on making the most of the time allotted, starting now.

*******The End*******