Initially, he’d thought the idea of studying plants was sort of pointless. It didn’t seem nearly as useful as learning to read, write and work figures. To his way of thinking one plant was pretty much like another. He knew the difference between vegetables in the garden and the weeds he was expected to pull and he knew enough to avoid poison ivy and poison oak, but more than that he didn’t think was terribly important. He’d said as much to Ezra when he’s brought up the subject having a botany lesson today for the children he was teaching.

Both Vin and Nathan were quick to point out that knowing more than that was definitely a skill worth having. Vin’s argument had focused on recognizing edible plants that could keep a man alive in lean times and those poisonous ones that were to be avoided. Nathan had pointed out that many of the medicines he used were derived from local plants. Many were beneficial and important to be able to identify and use.

Ezra had chuckled, stating all he’d intended was to simply broaden the number of subjects he exposed the children to. However, since both Vin and Nathan had made such eloquent arguments, he invited them to participate in the day’s lesson. JD had thought it a good idea. Seems ta me they still need a little time to really work out whatever upset Vin last week.

When he’d asked Vin and Ezra about them being involved Vin had hinted at some trouble with Nathan. All Ezra had been willing to divulge was that Nathan had said something Vin found objectionable. JD had kept his eyes open since then, wanting to help out if he could. He’d noticed things seemed easier between Ezra and Nathan since they’d gone out with Vin to repair Nettie’s roof.

But he hadn’t missed the fact that Vin still seemed to be keeping an eye on Nathan. Oh it wasn’t anything blatantly obvious or even genuinely hostile. It was more like the tracker was reluctant to allow Nathan to spend much time with Ezra unless he was around.

JD figured if Nathan had said something to piss Vin off, the tracker might hang on to that anger awhile. The man had it in him to hold a grudge, about that the young sheriff had no doubts. Buck is always accusing me of talking before I think, but Nate can be just as guilty of doing that too. Figure he said something stupid when he talked to Vin and Ezra about them being together. Based on what little they told me, I’m guessing whatever it was Nate said was about Ez. Doubt he did it to be mean, because Nate usually isn’t a cruel man, he just doesn’t always realize that some things are better left unsaid. Or worded a bit less…brutally honest. Momma always said silence is golden, and I’m beginning to think she was right. Got a feeling Nate might do with learning that fact. If his assumption was right, then JD expected Vin to hang on to his anger longer than he might otherwise have.

JD actually found that fact to be a validation of his acceptance of Vin and Ezra’s relationship. The two were a couple and professed to be committed to one another. To JD’s way of thinking, that meant they should stand up for each other, the same way a conventionally married couple were expected to. The sheriff felt it only right that Vin watch out for Ezra and make sure Nathan didn’t get another chance to say something stupid or hurtful. Hell Buck whaps me often enough when I say something stupid. Probably wouldn’t hurt for Vin to do the same to Nate now and again.

He chuckled to himself, trying to picture Nathan’s reaction to getting that sort of treatment. He was pleased to note that Vin, Ezra and Nathan seemed at ease in each other’s company at the moment. He seriously hoped that things continued that way. JD did not want whatever problem existed to cause a serious rift in the group he considered his family.

He watched as Ezra lightly snapped the reins and sent the wagon down the street toward the livery. JD sauntered down the boardwalk, wanting to find out how things had gone this afternoon. Things might look relaxed and easy from a distance, but he knew he’d get a better feel for the true situation if he spoke to them.

He made it to the livery at the same time their wagon. “Have a good lesson, Ez?”

The gambler gracefully leapt down from the wagon before answering. “Any time with the children is always well spent, JD.”

“So is that a yes or a no?”

JD rolled his eyes. He found it exasperating that Ezra couldn’t simply give him a straight answer, but at the same time he was pleased that the gambler had remembered to use his first name.

Ezra grinned, dimples appearing. “Yes.”

Vin laughed, and slapped JD on the shoulder when he also leapt down off the wagon. “You should have come with us JD. Could have learned something. Know I did.”

JD’s eyebrows went up.  “Thought you were teaching?”

“Don’t mean I can’t learn somethin’ while I’m at it.” Vin pointed out, his tone reasonable, very matter-of-fact. “Even Nate learned somethin’. Dincha, Nate?” Vin tossed the last over his shoulder where Nathan was still standing in the bed of the wagon.

The healer nodded. “Yeah, I did.” Nathan’s easy, relaxed smile was reassuring, letting JD know his initial assessment of their attitude was correct. They were comfortable with each other. JD didn’t think the man would be smiling like that if he hadn’t really had a good time. Ezra says he’s an open book, and I’m thinking he’s right about that. Don’t think Nate can lie any better than I can.

Nathan held up several small bags. “And thanks again for pointing out where to find some of these. My usual spot was getting pretty thin.”

“No problem, Nate.” Vin’s half-smile appeared. “Can’t have you runnin’ out. Never know when we might be needin’ that stuff.”

JD had seen the bags Nathan held several times before. They were the ones Nathan routinely used to gather herbs. While he didn’t really care for the teas the healer made from many of them, he was willing to concede they did often make a man feel better. And the poultices Nathan made seemed to help injuries heal faster, cleaner. JD had never seen a limb amputated and he really didn’t want to either.

“Give me hand with these, will ya, JD?” Nathan held up several bundles of what looked like loosely bound twigs and roots to JD.

“Sure.” JD eyed the twigs speculatively. “What is all that stuff anyway?”

“Plants I need to dry.” Nathan passed off what he held to JD, and bent to gather more. “Some plants it’s the bark that’s the most beneficial not just the leaves. On others, it’s the roots.  I try not to dig up too many o’ those cause it pretty much kills off your supply. But taking a few should be okay.”

JD nodded like he understood, not really wanting to ask for more information. Sometimes it was easier just to take Nathan’s word for it. He held the loose bundle the older man had handed him, surprised by the weight. He hadn’t thought something that looked so light could weight as much as it did. He waited to see if there was more. When Nathan stepped down out the wagon with a bundle of his own he figured that’s all there was.

Ezra stepped toward the horses’ heads, one hand already moving to encourage them to move forward. “While you gentlemen see to restocking Mr. Jackson’s apothecary, Vin and I will see to the safe return of Yosemite’s wagon and care for the horses.”

Nathan sighed softly as the wagon pulled away, Vin and Ezra disappearing into the shadowed confines of the stable. JD frowned, as he moved to follow the former slave up the stairs to the clinic. “Something wrong, Nate?”

“He doesn’t use my first name.” The older man shrugged one shoulder, a trace of hurt leaking through his voice. “Thought me an’ him had gotten past him calling me Mr. Jackson.”

JD shook his head. Why they all think I’m the slow one, I’ll never know. “I had to ask him more than once, Nate.” He made sure keep his tone unperturbed, neutral as he added, “So have Buck and Chris.” Know it bugs Chris when Ez calls him Mr. Larabee. Course I think Ez does it now more just because he knows it bugs Chris. Man sure does like to play with fire.

JD waited on the landing for Nathan to open the clinic door. “Think he just forgets that it’s okay to not be so formal. Sometimes I think he’s not sure you really meant it if you only ask once.”

If he’d had a free hand, JD would have waved it to emphasis. “He don’t mean anything bad by it. Think it’s just his way o’ showing respect.  Same way the kids all call you Mr. Nathan. You know?”

“You really think that’s all it is?” Nathan’s question was serious, earnest.

JD did his best not to smile. He didn’t want his friend to think he was laughing at him. “Yeah, Nate, I really think that’s all it is.” 

Nathan nodded slowly, apparently satisfied as he began hanging plants on the small clothesline that had been strung in the corner of the clinic for just that purpose. The smell of drying plants was one that JD associated with the clinic. He had been surprised that a place just above the stable didn’t smell of horses, or dung. If it weren’t for the negative associations of pain and Nathan’s uncomfortable, but necessary examination of whatever injury that had a man there in the first place, the clinic was actually a rather homey, welcoming even.

The clinic was tidy, with everything in its place and always clean. There was nothing grandiose about it, but JD thought that the simple, sturdy furniture and plain surroundings reflected Nathan’s straightforward, practical approach to life. Bet when he and Rain get married she adds some nice stuff. Kind o’ things that only women ever seem to know about. They can always dress up a home better than a man. Make a place feel like a home, not just some place you hang your hat, without even trying. 

The sheriff stepped closer when he saw Nathan had finished handing his plants and offered his bundle to the healer. Nathan’s deft fingers made short work of hanging the rest. “How long ‘fore you can use these?” JD asked gesturing toward plants on the line.

“Be a few days ‘fore they dry. Should be able to use them about then.” Nathan sounded very pleased. “Chris and Buck back?”

“Not yet.” Chris and Buck had ridden out to the gunslinger’s ranch to do some repairs to the corral fence. “I figure they’ll probably spend the night out there.” JD shrugged. “Not much going on in town that they need to rush back right away.”

Nathan nodded. “Kind o’ nice having things be peaceful for a change.”

Personally, JD wouldn’t mind a bit more excitement. But he could understand Nathan’s sentiment. Seems like every time there’s a dust up, he’s the one working the longest. Rest of us just have to rein things in when they get wild. But it’s Nate that has to deal with the aftermath when stuff gets crazy around here.

“Josiah still on patrol?”

“Yeah. But I expect he’ll be back shortly.”

Nathan checked the small potbellied stove and worked to bring the dying embers to life before adding a few sticks of wood. He held up the kettle. “You want a cup of tea?”

Not long ago, JD had discovered that as long as it wasn’t some medicinal type tea that he rather liked the beverage. And he liked being able to share a cup with Nathan, feeling like it gave him something in common with the other man. He’d been relieved to find that not all the peacekeepers felt the need to drink alcohol. He hadn’t wanted to be the only one who didn’t imbibe, as Ezra put it, but he really didn’t care for whiskey.

“You gonna make the same stuff you had the other day?” Don’t remember what kind that was, but it sure was good.

“If that’s what you want,” Nathan shrugged, and smiled, “sure.”

JD smiled back. “Then, I’ve got time for a cup.”

*******

Josiah could just make out the outline of Four Corners as he got closer. He smiled to himself, glad to be returning from his afternoon patrol, more than ready for a cool drink and human company. It had been hot and dusty, as usual, but it was still a beautiful day and he enjoyed the quiet solitude. He liked to use his time out of town as a sort of meditation. An opportunity to reflect on and ponder aspects of his life he usually made it a practice to avoid thinking about.

Working on the church was penance and in some ways it was an activity he engaged in so that he would not have to think. Keeping his hands busy made it easy not to dwell on the reason he needed to observe penance in the first place. It was soothing to his spirit to focus on the immediate, to exhaust himself physically while attempting to create a suitable place of worship. There was satisfaction to be had in seeing his efforts bear fruit, to have something tangible to firmly establish his atonement.

Josiah sighed and shifted in his saddle. His thoughts today had focused on Ezra. He no long called Ezra ‘son’ and fought himself hard to keep from verbalizing that endearment when in his heart and mind he still silently used the term to address Ezra.  Oh, he knew the younger man wasn’t his son. In fact the gambler didn’t even share a passing resemblance to Josiah’s only child. But there was something about Ezra that made the former preacher think often of his dead son, Aaron. Perhaps it was the mischief in his eyes, or maybe it was the dimples that appeared when he grinned. Aaron had those same traits. He also shared Ezra’s love of color, although Aaron tended to choose patterns over the solid blocks that Ezra seemed to favor. Josiah suspected his son would have loved Ezra’s favorite red jacket just as much as the gambler did.      

Not for the first time did Josiah regret the choices he’d made in his life. As soon as he was old enough he’d set out on his own, wanting nothing more than to leave behind his father’s constant criticisms and unforgiving mindset.  Although it was irrational, he sometimes felt that he’d unintentionally abandoned his sister along the way. He should have been there for her, or taken her with him, found some way to shield her from the fire and brimstone their father routinely spewed. He believed strongly that her current mental instability might have been prevented if she had not had to bear the brunt of their father’s religious fervor for so long. Seeing to it that she was well cared for and looked after was his way of trying to make up for leaving her to their sire’s mercy.

Josiah felt he’d made the same mistake with his son, sacrificing the limited time he’d had with the boy to pursue what at the time seemed like a more important goal. He had wanted to help abolish slavery and to that end had gotten deeply involved in the underground railroad. As rewarding as those efforts had been, Aaron’s death had left him wondering what the hell he could have ever thought was more worthwhile, more important than his son.

Josiah shuddered. He didn’t want to revisit those images. They haunted his dreams even now, years later. His boy died a victim of his father’s foolish pride. He had been so certain that he would never be questioned, no one would suspect him of being a conductor. He hadn’t gotten careless because that implied his increasingly reckless behavior hadn’t been deliberate, but simply a result of extenuating circumstances. Josiah knew the truth. It had been is desire to thumb his nose at those who hunted down escapees and their helpers that sowed the seeds of the whirlwind he’d be left to reap.

Enough! Josiah shook his head trying to dispel images he’d rather not look upon. Thinking about this is pointless. It changes nothing, and it never has.

He took a deep breath. Josiah was determined not to dwell on what he’d lost. Four Corners was his home now. It felt good to be a part of something again. He felt like his life had meaning and direction. Josiah forcibly reminded himself the past was done, nothing could be changed there.  

As he headed into town, he noticed a few children running toward their homes. They waved to him and Josiah smiled broadly as he waved back. Must have just gotten back from their botany lesson. Wonder how it went.

Having participated in several schooling sessions, he knew firsthand just how much the children enjoyed their lessons. The class size had grown fairly steadily from its inception, something Josiah attributed to mothers in town talking to one another. They had evidently noticed and come to appreciate just how good a teacher Ezra was.

The big peacekeeper sighed. While many in town had come to see the merit in letting Ezra teach their children, not everyone had. So the search continued for a real teacher. Josiah suspected finding someone qualified and willing to work for the minimal salary the townspeople could afford would prove to be more difficult than many realized and in all likelihood would not happen quickly.

Josiah snorted in derision. Damn shame the rest are too blind to see Ezra is a fine instructor for their children. Those kids are missing out. Isn’t anyone in this town as well educated as Ezra.

He unconsciously smiled, feeling a sense of paternal pride. No one else would have thought to teach the children botany, or geography. World is changing all the time. Knowledge like that just might come in handy in the future. The oldest child Ezra taught wouldn’t even be half of Josiah’s age when a new century would begin. There was no telling what the twentieth century might require of them.

Josiah caught a glimpse of JD and Nathan as they entered the clinic. A quick glance as he passed the jail and the saloon confirmed that neither Vin nor Ezra were lounging outside. He hadn’t really expected them to be there, but habit made him look anyway. If Nathan is just getting home then Vin and Ezra are probably putting the wagon they used away for Yosemite.

Despite appearances to the contrary, he knew Ezra was conscientious about returning items he had requested permission to borrow. The man was not a thief. He might con someone out of their possessions, gamble long enough to leave them nothing but the shirt on their back, but he did not ever stoop so low as to steal.

Although, Josiah laughed softly to himself, it was more likely that he conned Vin into doing anything that might get his hands dirty rather than do the job himself. Might not steal, but the boy does hate getting dirty. Can’t say I blame him. More than one task I’d be willing to avoid if I could get someone else to do it for me. Josiah smiled, blue eyes bright with amusement as he silently laughed at himself. Cleanliness is next to Godliness after all.//

At first glance the tracker and gambler made for such an odd pair. But Josiah had to concede all seven of them made for a rather unconventional gathering. A hardened gunslinger with a staunch moral code, a fun-loving cowboy who’s tough as nails when he needs to be, a black man who heals, a bounty hunter with a price on his head, a gambler with a heart of gold, a kid who is wiser than all of us some days…and me, a man of God who still struggles to find his faith. Josiah shook his head surprised by the paradoxes they seemed to embody. A motley crew indeed, and yet, one that worked surprisingly well.

When he’d signed on to help defend the Indian village, he’d fully expected them to fail. But the cause was worthy and it seemed like a good thing to die for. It was one more chance to redeem himself. A prayer to St. Jude, the patron saint of lost causes, was on his lips most of the time.  And against the odds, they survived. He said a prayer of thanks every night for that good fortune, fervently hoping it would continue for many years to come.

Josiah reined in his horse in front of the livery, dismounting outside. He stretched his back, thinking not for the first time that he was getting too old for this. With a sigh he led Prophet inside the dimly lit building and into his usual stall.  As his eyes adjusted to being out of the harsh southwest sun, he glanced around expecting to see Ezra or Vin somewhere inside.

The wagon was in its usual place, as were the light draft horses Yosemite had likely lent them. Josiah frowned. Maybe I missed them.

Then he heard a noise from the small tack room that Yosemite used to store equipment the livery owned. Ah. They must be putting the harness away. Yosemite preferred to keep his tack separate from those who boarded their horses in the livery. It made it less likely that any mix up might occur be it accidental or on purpose. And he liked to make certain that the longer reins that accompanied buggy and wagon harnesses did not get unduly tangled. The small tack room had several hooks arranged especially for that purpose.

Josiah left Prophet for the moment, thinking he’d just step in and say a quick hello to his friends. Might offer to buy them a drink. Boys are probably more than ready for a cold one after spending all afternoon in the sun. Know I could do with one.

He heard Vin laughing through the partially opened door. There was a teasing, inviting quality to his laughter that made Josiah wonder if the tracker was trying to get Ezra to participate in some prank. He shook his head, almost feeling sorry for Vin’s intended victim.  A wry smiled formed as he considered the many jokes Vin had subjected people to. That boy is going to go too far one of these days.

He pushed the door fully open allowing his large frame to enter easily. Sunlight streamed into the room from a small window in the back wall, highlighting dust motes dancing in the air. A welcoming call and gentle cautionary comment on whatever mischief Vin might be planning died stillborn on his lips.

Josiah could not believe what he was seeing, thinking it a trick of light and shadow. He blinked and shook his head. The image didn’t change. Vin had Ezra pinned up against the wall, trapping the other man’s hands between them as he lay the full length of his lanky frame against the stocky gambler, preventing his escape. Vin’s hat had been pushed back, hanging down his back from the small cord he used to secure it during windy weather or when riding fast. His hands were cupping Ezra’s face as he proceeded to kiss him thoroughly, roughly.  The gambler moaned and seemed to be pushing futilely against Vin.

The ex-preacher saw red. What in the hell did Vin think he was doing? How dare he accost Ezra that way? Subject an unwilling boy to those unnatural passions. He’d put a stop to that right now before it could go any further. No one would inflict that sort of harm on his son.

Josiah strode forward and roughly grabbed Vin by the shoulder, pulling him away from Ezra, all but bodily throwing the tracker to the other side of the room. He towered over the startled and dazed Texan before grabbing him by his jacket lapels and lifting the younger man to his eye level. He slammed Vin into the wall, rattling the window and jarring bridles free from their hooks.

“What. In. The. Hell. Are. You. Doing??!” Josiah punctuated each word by slamming Vin forcefully against the wall. He was only vaguely aware of Vin gasping for air, of his struggling against him, but that just made him tighten his grip with renewed fury. He heard his name called, the tone angry, demanding, but he ignored it, his focus only on the man he was slowly strangling. He felt someone grab his arm, but he easily shrugged off that hold.

His concentration didn’t waver until he felt a sharp blow across the back of his knees, forcing them to buckle. Josiah would have pulled Vin down with him except that another solid blow clipped him in the elbows, making his hands tingle violently and incapable of maintaining his grip. It was only then that he became conscious of the feel of a gun barrel being pressed against his temple, the deadly intent unmistakable.

“I have no desire to kill you, Mr. Sanchez.” Ezra’s voice was as cold as ice, little more than a deadly whisper near his left ear. “But make no mistake, I will terminate your miserable existence if you so much as twitch.”

“Are you all right, Vin?” Ezra inquired softly, his tone decidedly warmer than it had been just a moment ago.

Vin waved a hand signaling he was fine. That gesture was belied by the way he still leaned heavily against the wall, wheezing and coughing. Josiah inwardly cringed at the sense of satisfaction the younger man’s obvious struggle to recapture his wind gave him. Just a few minutes ago he was thinking of the other man as a friend. His righteous indignation reasserted itself and he glared at Vin.

The tracker deserved what he’d gotten and a lot more. He shifted his weight, intent on regaining his feet and continuing the attack. Ezra stopped that movement with a none too gentle tap from the gun barrel he still held to Josiah’s temple.

“I meant what I said.” The usually genteel drawl had taken on a hard, uncompromising cadence. “Another move will be your last.”

The big man swallowed hard. He remembered the last time Ezra had pointed a gun at him. The gambler meant business then, and Josiah didn’t doubt he meant it now. What he didn’t understand was why. It made no sense.

“Ezra,” Josiah spoke slowly, “I was helping YOU.”

“Helping me?” Ezra gave an ungentlemanly snort as he stepped toward Vin, gun still trained on Josiah. His tone took on a sarcastic, incredulous aspect. “I fail to see how brutalizing Vin would be of assistance to me.”

Ignoring the gun, Josiah stared at Ezra. “For God’s sake, son,” anger and concern made him forget not to use that appellation to address Ezra, “he was forcing himself on you!”

Ezra raised an eyebrow, green eyes hard, expression otherwise unreadable. “You thought—“

“Yes. Of course!” Josiah answered even before Ezra could finish the question. “He had you pinned against the wall!” He glared at Vin again, noting that the younger man was no longer leaning against the wall or wheezing. Vin for his part glared back, blue eyes like ice.

“Ain’t the type ta force myself on anyone, Preacher.” Vin growled, his voice low and rough.

The big man snarled, insulted on Ezra’s behalf, hands curling into fists. “You’re supposed to be his friend! You listen to me you filthy, savage heathen just because you’re a sodomite does not --“

“That is quite enough.” Ezra soft voice cut through his beginning tirade as easily as a hot knife through butter. His expression brought Josiah to a halt faster than his voice. There was no mistaking that the gambler was fully capable of carrying out his earlier threat to shoot him. Green eyes seemed to glitter with an icy rage, his lips compressed into a hard line, the index finger on the trigger noticeably tightened.

“You seem to be laboring under false assumptions, Mr. Sanchez.” Ezra’s voice was soft, conversational even, but that did little to disguise the obvious fury in his stance and expression. Unlike most, the southerner did not raise his voice when angry. He was far too well mannered for such crass and vulgar behavior. Gentlemen did not shout.

“May I remind you that I am not incapable of defending myself should the need to do so arise.” Ezra subtly moved the gun he held in his left hand, drawing Josiah’s eyes back to it, before he sprung his derringer free as well. For the first time Josiah noticed it was the Remington that had been trained on him.

He would have expected the gambler to go for his hidden little pop gun first. It was a weapon he seemed to favor when threatened in close quarters. But then it wasn’t Ezra who’d been physically threatened, it was Vin. Josiah took a deep breath realizing that Ezra had likely pulled the six-shooter feeling he might need the larger weapon’s knock down power, something his derringer, while deadly, definitely lacked.

“But he had you pinned…trapped. He was hurting you.” Josiah insisted, still trying to make Ezra see reason. He knew that Vin was a friend but that was no excuse. If anything it made his actions more reprehensible.

“Vin does not pose a threat to me. I am not incapable of taking care of myself, Mr. Sanchez.” Ezra smiled, but there was no humor in it. “You misread this situation very badly and made a grave error in judgment.”

Vin reached out to place a hand on Ezra’s arm. Josiah’s eyes narrowed suspiciously at the gesture, but the gambler made no move to object or shrug off Vin’s hand. The tracker offered quietly, voice still sounding abused. “Don’t really think you should be ready ta kill him for wanting to rescue a friend in thought was in trouble.”

Ezra holstered the Remington but kept the derringer trained on Josiah. From his current distance and Ezra’s adjusted aim to something other than his head, the little pop gun would likely not be fatal, but Josiah knew it would still hurt a lot to take a hit from it. He was reluctant to make any sudden moves just yet.

“His belief I was in danger is no excuse for his attempt to kill you.” Ezra stated flatly, clearly not ready to give any quarter just yet. He shook his head.  “God save me from well-meaning individuals. Their intent never seems to match the end results.”

Green eyes narrowed, raking Josiah with an implacable gaze. “What in the hell did you think you were doing?”

“I thought I was helping you,” Josiah reiterated with a low growl. How many times was he going to have to say that before Ezra understood? He was not the villain here.

Ezra took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Did it ever occur to you that I did not find Vin’s advances unwelcome and as such did not need nor appreciate your intrusion?”

Josiah stared at him, mouth agape. He had to have heard the question wrong. There was no way his boy could have wanted Vin to kiss him. The tracker’s stance had been aggressive, the kiss rough. It was wrong.

“You’re not like that.”

The gambler’s lips twisted in a bitter smile. “Like what?” An eyebrow arched. “A filthy, savage heathen? Or a sodomite?”

Josiah hesitated for a moment, not sure what to say. Green eyes held blue without flinching. “The kiss you witnessed was a mutual exchange, not forced or unwanted. He loves me and I love him Josiah.” The preacher started slightly at the use of his first name. It served to underscore just how serious Ezra was. “We have been together as a couple for several months.”

Josiah’s blue eyes darkened with anger and betrayal. Months! And I’m just finding out now. Like this! He lashed out not thinking about what he was saying.

“You see nothing wrong with participating in this….this perversion?!” Not caring about the derringer Ezra still threatened him with, Josiah surged to his feet. He didn’t step forward as he’d intended because Vin drew his mare’s leg, the ominous click of that large hammer seemed to fill the small room stopping Josiah. The tracker now stood steady on his feet, ready to attack or defend if need be.

The big man drew himself up to his full height and glared at both of them, righteous indignation radiating from him. He unconsciously found himself spouting a rigid condemnation that would have made his father proud. “Carnal relations between men profanes the name of God. Such an action is an abomination.”

“Leviticus. Chapter 18. Verse 22.” Ezra calmly stated, obviously not the least bit intimidated. “I am familiar with the passage, but I find that much in Leviticus has no real bearing. Given your regard for Mr. Jackson, I’m sure you don’t hold with Chapter 25, verse 44.”

Josiah blinked, for a moment taken by surprise to have the gambler know exactly the chapter and verse he was referring to, and yet he was ignorant of the one Ezra just mentioned. The gambler proceeded to enlighten him. “According to that passage, it is right and proper to own slaves, provided of course you buy them from among the neighboring nations. God forbid you enslave your own people.”

Ezra’s expression turned smug. “I’d told you I’d masqueraded as a preacher once. Did you think I wouldn’t know the Good Book as least as well as you? Maybe even better.”

“Knowing it isn’t the same as having faith.” Josiah spit out between clenched teeth. He was not even sure why he was still arguing, but he couldn’t seem to stop.

“True.” Ezra shrugged one shoulder. “But it’s your faith, not mine. And you can’t pick and choose which passages you would prefer to believe in.” The gambler’s eyes shifted slightly. “Wouldn’t you agree, Mr. Jackson?”

Josiah turned, surprised to see Nathan and JD standing in the doorway. The healer’s eyes moved warily back and forth between Josiah and Ezra. “Heard a ruckus down here.” He asked hesitantly, “There a problem?”

“That has yet to be sufficiently ascertained.”

JD’s hands hovered above his pistol grips, clearly more inclined to take his cue from the fact that Vin and Ezra both had their guns drawn. “You wanna give us that in English, Ez?”

“Mr. Sanchez walked in on a moment of indiscretion between myself and Vin.”

“Hunh?”

“He saw us kissing.” Ezra restated. A wry smile graces his features for a moment. “And took offense.”

“Oh. Okay.”

JD’s nonchalant answer, coupled with his lack of surprise indicated to Josiah that he was aware of Vin and Ezra’s relationship. He doesn’t seem to object either. I know the boy is young but he is wise enough in the ways of the world to know better. IF the town folk find out about this…shit. They’ll be lucky just to get run out of town and not killed!

Sharp blue eyes shifted to his old friend. “You knew about it too?”

“I knew.” Nathan confirmed quietly.

“And you didn’t object??!” Josiah asked, incredulous, again feeling anger and betrayal that his friend had not seen fit to inform him. Has everyone lost their minds? Who else knows about this?

Nathan frowned at him. “What two people do in private is their own business, long as no one is getting hurt. Once I was sure it was a mutual thing between them I didn’t see any need to object.” Dark eyes shifted to Vin and Ezra, a small smile passed between them. “We got it worked out just fine.”

“And you?” Josiah glared at JD.

The young sheriff shrugged, not the least bit phased by Josiah’s hostile gaze. “Long as I knew Vin wasn’t gonna hurt Ez, I didn’t see a problem with it.” JD cocked his head to one side. “They aren’t doing anything wrong, Josiah.”

“It’s against the law.” The big man argued. Nearly every state and territory had laws against sodomy, buggary and a whole host of crimes labeled under sexual deviance.

“So is assault and battery.” Vin countered, voice still rough. “I got more grounds ta see you in jail, Preacher, than you got ‘gainst me an’ Ez.” Vin’s use of the title rather than his name was a clear indication the tracker was still pissed.

Nathan darted a concerned look from Josiah to Vin and back. “What did you do?”

Josiah’s anger and betrayal gave way to embarrassment and shame under that assessing gaze. He’d never raised a hand to any of his friends before, not even when he was drunk. “I thought he was hurting Ezra.”

JD rolled his eyes. “That’s not an answer. You wanna try again?” The last was a question, but came out more like an order. There was steel in his voice that would not be denied.

“He attempted to strangle the life out of Vin.” Ezra supplied when Josiah hesitated. JD and Nathan both gave him a hard look. Anything they might have said was cut off when Ezra continued speaking. “Mr. Jackson, I would greatly appreciate it if you would examine him.”

“I don’t need-“

Ezra halted Vin’s protest with nothing more than a look. Josiah couldn’t help but be impressed. Even Chris couldn’t do that.

“Mr. Jackson,” Ezra waved one hand in an inviting gesture, “if you please.” The gambler deftly stepped away so that he could allow Nathan close to Vin and still cover Josiah.

The preacher sighed heavily, shoulders slumping slightly. “You don’t need that any more.”

Ezra regarded him steadily, searching for what Josiah didn’t know, he just hoped the younger man found it. He silently prayed that he hadn’t completely or permanently destroyed the trust that had existed between them. After a moment, the gambler nodded once, sharply and pushed the small gun back up his sleeve. “I will make no apologies.” The statement was firm.

Josiah nodded. He hadn’t really expected the gambler to say he was sorry. The last time Ezra had pointed a gun at him wasn’t really even remotely close to this situation. No one had gotten hurt then and Josiah knew he’d over stepped his bounds.

Unfortunately, I can’t really say that I am sorry either. He sighed again. He’d come to Ezra’s defense and even though the gambler might not have needed, it he wasn’t going to apologize for that. And while his outburst hadn’t been what he really meant to say, he still felt Vin and Ezra were making a mistake. What if someone in town finds out? Ben Franklin was right when he said the only way three people can keep a secret is if two are already dead.

He was still struggling with his anger and disappointment. The added fear that Ezra might well be endangering himself by pursuing this folly was added to the mix, along with hurt at not being informed when others had been. He felt an inexplicable sense of loss. Suddenly the room seemed way too small and there was just so much he needed to think about. 

He couldn’t stay here any longer. He needed to think. Somewhere alone where he could sort this out. Figure out what to do, order his thoughts so that he could say what he meant to. Without another word Josiah shouldered past JD and out the door, heedless of the possible ruin he was leaving in his wake.

*******

JD could easily read pain and disappointment in Ezra’s eyes as he watched the big man leave. Damn. That didn’t go well at all. “It’s not your fault, Ez.”

The gambler’s lips quirked in a bitter smile. “I would not be so sure of that, JD.”

“Well, I am.” JD argued defiantly. “You and Vin didn’t do anything wrong.”

“Was a little stupid of you to be kissing in here.” Nathan commented dryly from where he continued to examine Vin’s throat. He’d loosened Vin’s bandana and was gently touching the bruises coming to the surface. “Not exactly the most private o’ places.”

JD scowled. “Well it ain’t that public either, Nate. And them kissing isn’t reason enough for Josiah to be like that.”

“I’m not excusing him, JD.” Nathan sighed heavily. “I’m just saying that this probably wasn’t the best way for him to find out.”

“Weren’t ‘xactly how we planned ta tell him.” Vin pointed out, trying to slap Nathan’s hand and move away from him.

“Now stop that.” Nathan scolded. “I’m not going to hurt you.”

Vin grimaced, looking like he disagreed with that statement, but stopped trying to escape. Nathan shook his head. “C’mon upstairs. I need better light.” He gave Vin a sharp glance. “You hurt anywhere else I should know about?”

“His back.” Ezra answered overriding the negative shake of Vin’s head. “The ‘ruckus’ you heard from upstairs was Mr. Sanchez slamming Vin up against the wall repeatedly.”

“Tattle tale.” Vin growled.

Ezra just arched one eyebrow. “Tell me honestly that you wouldn’t have ratted me out and I’ll apologize.”

Vin muttered something that JD was pretty sure wasn’t polite. Ezra chuckled. “That’s what I thought.” He waved a hand toward the door. “Shall we sojourn to Mr. Jackson’s clinic upstairs then so that he can ascertain the true state of your health?”

Nathan led the way out of the stable and up the stairs. Vin followed slowly, clearly reluctant, but with Ezra on one side and JD on the other, the tracker really had no choice but to go to the clinic. JD figured Vin couldn’t be hurt too badly since he still moved with his usual fluid grace and silent tread.

“Take off you jacket and shirt, Vin. And sit down.” Nathan ordered as he checked the temperature of the kettle he’d left earlier. JD didn’t think it would be too cool yet since they hadn’t even gotten to finish their tea when they had heard odd noises coming from downstairs.

“Would the tea you made for me when I suffered from a similar injury be available? I found it rather soothing.” Ezra spoke quietly as he carefully folded Vin’s capote over the back of the chair. JD found it interesting that Ezra treated Vin’s less than pristine jacket just as well as he would one of his own well made, colorful garments.

Nathan nodded. “I’ve got some of that.” The former slave took another look at Vin’s throat. “You have trouble breathing? Swallowing?”

“Nope.” Vin answered.

“Hurt to talk?”

“Some.”

Nathan nodded, not looking surprised. JD winced in sympathy when Nathan had Vin sit forward enough to see his back. The bruises nearly covered Vin’s back from shoulder to hip. When Nathan let his hands lightly ghost of Vin’s back, checking the degree of bruising, JD was struck by the sharp contrast between the healer’s dark skin and Vin’s lighter complexion.

A hitch in the tracker’s breathing and Ezra’s hand shot out to capture Nathan’s wrist. Nathan looked at him in surprise.

“Gently.” He admonished the healer, voice soft, but the tone was sharp.  

JD was honestly surprised that Nathan didn’t snap at Ezra. Man doesn’t normally like anyone telling him how to do his job. Course, I think he knows that if it weren’t for Ezra he wouldn’t even get a chance to look Vin over.

“Vin, I think you may have cracked a rib.” Nathan stated calmly. His dark eyes flickered to where Ezra’s hand still held his wrists. The gambler released his hold with a small nod of understanding.  

“Ain’t anything broken, Nate.” Vin argued, head turning enough so he could look over his shoulder. “I know what broken feels like, an’ this ain’t it.”

Nathan sighed heavily, moving to where Vin could see him more easily. “I didn’t say broken. I said cracked. There is a difference you know. And I doubt you’ve ever been slammed around quite like that before, so how would you know what cracking a rib from the back feels like?”

Vin scowled. He opened his mouth to retort, but Ezra laid a hand on his shoulder. “You are in pain?”

“Not really.” A raised eyebrow was all it took to prompt Vin to say more. “Only really bothered me when Nate hit a sore spot. That’s all. I’ve had worse.”

“Having experienced worse is no reason to dismiss your present condition.” The chastise was gentle. “Taking care of minor ailments properly will prevent them from becoming major ones.”

Vin snorted. “I’m gonna remind you that you said that next time you need tendin’ to.”

Ezra smiled slightly and said something in French JD didn’t understand. To his surprise Vin responded in the same language, although slower, obviously less fluent and sure of himself than the gambler. Whatever he said made Ezra roll his eyes. Don’t that beat all. Wonder when Ezra started teaching him that? Wonder if I could get him to teach me French too.

Nathan interrupted their by-play. “Vin, does it bother you at all to breathe deeply?”

Vin took an experimental breath. He shook his head. “Faint twinge but that’s it.”

Nathan nodded. “Don’t see much benefit to wrapping your chest then. Probably won’t find sleeping on you back very comfortable for a while. If the pain gets worse or you start having trouble breathing I want you to let me know.”

“Can I get dressed now?”

“Sure.” Nathan moved to the stove and poured out a cup of hot water from the kettle. “Want you to drink some of that tea I gave Ezra. It’ll help with your throat. Oh, and no riding for a bit. Rib might only be cracked, but rough riding could make it a break for sure.” He let the ingredients steep, oblivious to the reaction his statement caused.

Vin’s hands had frozen in the act of buttoning his shirt. JD found something disturbing about the looks on both Vin and Ezra’s faces, and the look that passed between them. His eyes darted from one to the other trying to read what was going on. 

Ezra lightly patted Vin’s shoulder. “But if he were to ride at a sedate pace?” JD was sure there was more than simple concern or curiosity in that question. I know Vin likes to get out of town, and ride, but a few days wouldn’t be too hard to handle. Gotta more to it.

The healer frowned. “Probably wouldn’t hurt riding slow, but still think it’s better safe than sorry. So, no riding for at least a week. Give that rib a chance to get started healing okay.” Nathan offered the cup to Vin.

Vin slowly took the cup, but he didn’t drink. Blue eyes sought green. “I’ve ridden with a lot worse, Ez.”

Ezra shook his head in firm denial. “There is no reason to put yourself at risk.”

Vin scowled. “We don’t know what he’s gonna do. Not safe ta stay here if he gets to shooting his mouth off. If we rode slow, took our time--”

“Wait a minute.” JD interrupted. “You’re talking about leaving?!”

“Mr. Sanchez was most strident in his objections to our relationship.” Ezra made a movement with one shoulder that was far too elegant and precise to really be considered a shrug.

“He thought Vin was hurting you.”

“So his rational response to diffusing a threat to my person is to assault the man in return?” The gambler clucked his tongue and arched an eyebrow. “Had I truly been in danger, all the situation would have required was for him to have pulled my assailant away, restrain him. Something a man of Mr. Sanchez’s size and strength would not have found difficult to do.” Green eyes turned bleak. “I had to force him to release Vin. I was not joking when I said he tried to strangle the life out of him.”

JD swallowed hard. He’d seen Josiah in a blind rage once. Explains why they both had their guns drawn. Not sure I’d want to face Josiah when he’s like that.

“Even when disabused of the notion I was in danger, he made no move to apologize, exhibited no regret or remorse over his actions.” The set of Ezra’s jaw and look in his eyes was telling. The gambler would not easily forgive Josiah for hurting Vin of that JD was certain.

“He stated vehemently his objections to our relationship. Condemning us to hell.”

JD winced. He’d heard that part of the argument. He’d been rather impressed with the gambler’s response. Never knew the Bible said it was okay for people to own slaves. Don’t seem right at all. And I can’t really believe God would send them to hell for just loving each other. Doesn’t seem as big a sin as murder.

Ezra’s expression turned contemplative. “I wonder how much hotter Mr. Sanchez expects the fires of damnation to be for this transgression. After all, it’s not as if I were an innocent before I met Vin.” He grinned wolfishly. “According to Dante there is a special level in Hell reserved for people like us.”

“Dante?” Nathan asked, both eyebrows rising.

“He wrote a treatise on Heaven, Hell and Purgatory.” Ezra stated calmly. “The Inferno covered the nine levels of hell, detailing the types of sinners, and their respective punishments.”

JD shook his head. Kind of glad I missed that one. “Look, we all know Josiah can get a little carried away when he gets mad.”

“Damn sight more than a little.” Vin raised his free hand toward his throat eloquently drawing attention to the bruises. He ignored the silence that followed his verbal bombshell and took a sip of the tea Nathan had handed him. “Hey, this ain’t bad, Nate. Feels good too.”

The healer rolled his eyes. “I told you it would help.”

“The point is, “JD raised his voice slightly trying to draw attention back to the issue, “once Josiah cools off, I’m sure he’s going to feel bad about what he did. You just have to give him some time to think.”

“And if he uses that time to convince himself of the righteousness of his position?” Ezra cocked his head to one side, small worry lines furrowing his brow. “What if he turns to some of the residents of this dusty metropolis for guidance and inadvertently exposes us to ridicule and scorn? Or decides to elicit support to simply run us out of town?”

“Josiah wouldn’t do that.” Nathan stated in defense of his long time friend. “I know he wouldn’t.”

“Yes, well at one time I never thought he would attack a friend while stone cold sober, but clearly I was mistaken.”

JD sighed. I hate it when Ezra doesn’t pull his punches. Man is just too good with words when he’s pissed. Course he’s good with words at any old time, but he’s a lot more cutthroat about it when he’s not happy. And he’s usually right.

“You might be right. We don’t honestly know what Josiah will or won’t do.” JD held up a hand halting the words Nathan looked ready to voice. “So there is no reason for you to make any hasty decisions.” He scowled. “Like planning to leave. At least not yet.”

“Better not to be in town if things go bad.” Vin commented quietly, still sipping his tea.

“And if Josiah comes around after he gets a chance to do some thinking you don’t want to be too far away.” JD countered. He refused to only see the down side. JD’s gaze shifted from Vin to Ezra. “Do you?”

“No.” Ezra bit his lower lip. Ezra’s gaze shifted to Vin, and they shared another look. Ezra squared his shoulders, eyes meeting JD’s again. “If possible, we would prefer to stay.”

“Okay.” JD nodded once firmly. “Then don’t be in such an all fire hurry to call it quits. Don’t need to pack your bags just yet.”

Ezra smiled sadly. “A bit too late for that I’m afraid.”

“Hunh?”

“JD, I never unpacked.”

JD stared at him, flabbergasted. That can’t be right. “You got all kinds of stuff in your room.”

The gambler shrugged. “None of that is important. It can be replaced.” Ezra made a meaningless, graceful gesture. “The things I truly value, those items that I have deemed irreplaceable…they are seldom out of reach.”

“So if you wanted to you—“

“I could leave now.” Ezra finished for him.

Nathan’s mouth dropped open. “All those fancy clothes, the books, the—“

“As I said,” Ezra shrugged one shoulder, “it can all be replaced.”

“Vin?” Nathan stared at the tracker clearly asking if he felt the same way.

Vin’s trademark half smile appeared as handed the now empty cup back to Nathan. “Stuff in my wagon is nice ta have, but I can live without it. Have before.”

JD shook his head. How long will I know these two before I really know them. And from the look on Nate’s face I’m not the only one thinking that.

“None of that really matters.” He waved one hand in a dismissive gesture. “At least not right now. What matters is that you both agree not to leave until Josiah has a chance to calm down. Give us a chance to talk to him…convince him to see reason.”

Ezra took a deep breath. “How long?”

JD looked toward Nathan. “You’ve known him the longest. You think two days will be enough?”

Nathan played with the cup in his hand, clearly thinking over the question. Dark eyes meet blue and green. “Don’t know if two days will be enough for him to accept you. Really no telling just how long that would take, but it will be more than long enough for you to know if he really meant what he said downstairs and how he intends to behave from here on out.”

Ezra nodded slowly, accepting that answer. “You have two days, JD.” JD’s sigh of relief was cut short by Ezra’s next statement. “I do believe Vin was right when he stated it may not be best for either of us to remain in town. So for the duration of our agreed upon time frame, we will simply be elsewhere.”

“Where?” JD didn’t so much ask as demand an answer.

“Better not to say.” Vin shook his head as he stood up. “We’ll meet you at Chris’ place in two days. And yes, Nate, I’ll take it easy.”

“I’ll see that he does.” Ezra’s tone left no doubt in JD’s mind that the gambler would do just that.

The healer nodded, accepting with surprising grace that this was not an issue he couldn’t win so there was no point in arguing. He silently offered a small packet of tea to Vin. The tracker took it with a small smile of thanks.

“Chris’ ranch. Two days.” JD reiterated, wanting to be very certain the two men he considered part of his family understood that he was counting on them to be there.

Both Vin and Ezra raised two fingers in the gambler’s usual salute. Despite being a seemingly casual gesture, JD knew it was as good as a promise. It didn’t bother him to let Vin and Ezra leave when he knew that no matter what he’d be seeing them both in two days.

“Now what?” Nathan asked quietly after the door had closed behind Vin and Ezra.

JD wasn’t sure if he should be surprised or pleased that Nathan was asking him what they should to. Guess I’d be pleased if I knew what the hell to do. As it is, I’m sort of just working it out as I go. Sort of hoped he’d know what to do.

The young sheriff sighed. If he’d learned anything in the past year, it was to keep things simple. “We find Josiah and we talk some sense into him.” And if that doesn’t work, well then I guess Vin and Ezra won’t be the only ones leaving.

*******

Buck wiped his brow. Replacing rotted corral posts and setting new ones properly was not an easy job.  He didn’t mind hard work. Enjoyed it from time to time, but he was damn glad Chris didn’t ask him to do this often.

He stretched his back, working out the kinks that had formed over the course of the day. Buck blinked, surprised to see two horses walking up the road. He lightly slapped Chris’ arm. “Looks like we got company coming.”

Chris stepped back from where he was digging out a post-hole, and followed Buck’s line of sight. Dark blue eyes narrowed. “Trouble?”

Buck shook his head. “Boys are ridin’ mighty slow for there to be too much for us to worry about.” He frowned. “Still, ain’t no reason for them to be here otherwise.”

Chris pursed his lips. He dropped the posthole digger into the hole and moved toward the watering trough. The lean gunslinger picked up the gun belt he’d hung from the railing, buckling it on as he continued walking. Buck was quick to follow suit.

Peso and Chaucer came to a halt in front of the trough. Buck expected Ezra and Vin to swing down, but neither man made a move to step out of their saddles. Buck’s gaze darted from one man to the other trying to read something from their faces. Guessing whatever it is, it can’t be good.

“What happened?” Chris asked.

Ezra answered his expression an odd mixture of defiance and apology. “Vin and I were in the tack room. Kissing. When Mr. Sanchez entered unexpectedly, he saw us, and reacted…badly.”

Ezra’s clipped recitation of the facts reminded Buck of scouts reporting in during the war. The fact that the gambler was so brief and direct didn’t bode well. Buck found himself wondering just exactly how bad Ezra meant by 'badly'.

Chris arched an eyebrow. “You wanna explain that last bit?”

“He got a little physical, Cowboy.” The roughness of Vin’s voice as he answered made Buck wince in sympathy. Haven’t heard anyone sound that bad since that stupid bank robber tried ta strangle Ez. Ah shit.

Chris growled. There was no other way to describe the noise he made. And Buck knew his long time friend had made the same connection he had. “You okay?”

“Will be.” The tracker shrugged. “Nothin’ a little time won’t cure.”

Buck looked toward Ezra. The gambler didn’t look hurt, but that didn’t mean anything. Man could be missin’ a limb and he’d still be able ta make you think he was all right. An’ he’s a lot smaller than Josiah. Preacher could do some serious damage without breakin’ a sweat.

“What about you?” Buck knew his concern and anger were evident in his voice, but then he never bothered to hide his emotions. Blue eyes raked the other man in a quick, but thorough study. “He hurt you too, Ez?”

“I am unharmed.” Ezra cocked his head, and seemed momentarily taken aback by Buck’s intense interest in his well being. “It was Vin who bore the brunt of Mr. Sanchez’s wrath.”

“Just how upset was he?” Chris stared hard at Vin demanding an honest answer. Buck knew Chris was just trying to assess the situation much the same way as he’d assessed Ezra’s appearance just a second ago.

Vin’s jaw tightened. “If Ez hadn’t gotten a little physical himself, pretty sure Josiah woulda killed me.”

Chris cursed, softly but vehemently. And not for the first time was Buck grateful that his friend wasn’t prone to shouting. Man sounds vicious enough at normal volume. Can’t imagine what he’d be like if he was the sort to shout stuff like that.

Buck’s blue eyes widened slightly thinking over what Vin had said. He had trouble picturing Ezra being able to manhandle someone Josiah’s size. Ez would have to do something to even up the odds a bit. Something more than just a dirty trick or two.// 

Suddenly apprehensive about why they might have come to Chris’ ranch, Buck asked hesitantly, “Ez…you didn’t kill Josiah, did ya?”

Ezra rolled his eyes. “No, Buck, I didn’t kill him.” The gambler took a deep breath. “There was a moment when I feared lethal force might have been necessary to convince Mr. Sanchez to relinquish his hold on Vin. Fortunately, the threat of a mortal wound was sufficient inducement.”

Buck correctly interpreted that to mean Ezra had pulled a gun on Josiah but hadn’t used it. “You two just hightail it out of there then?”

“Nope.” Vin shook his head. He opened his mouth to say more, but Ezra laid a hand on his arm and shook his head. The gambler silently withdrew a small bag from his pocket and handed it to Vin. The tracker grinned when he opened the bag. He dug into the bag and popped something in his mouth.

Seeing the questioning look on Buck and Chris’ faces, Ezra shrugged. “Lemon drops. When I suffered a similar injury I found them to be invaluable in helping ease the discomfort. And I was admonished by Mr. Jackson not to speak unduly. An order I believe applies to Vin as well.”

It was on the tip of Buck’s tongue to ask if Nathan had checked Vin over. Know he don’t like the clinic or having anyone fuss over him. Course, from the looks of things Ez is doing his best to take care o’ Vin. Still, would be best ta have Nate take a look. Buck opened his mouth to ask, but Ezra was speaking again before he had the chance. 

“JD and Mr. Jackson were present to witness the tail end of our altercation. Their presence seemed to help defuse the situation slightly, although, Mr. Sanchez continued to verbally express some residual hostility toward Vin and myself. Mr. Sanchez is now aware that others know of our relationship. He was,” Ezra hesitated and then sighed softly. “I believe he was distraught to learn JD and Nathan did not share in his disapproval.”

Buck winced. He had no trouble reading the disappointment and sorrow in that last statement. God damn preacher. Ez might not have appreciated being called ‘son’ but that don’t mean he didn’t want the man to be happy for him, accept him.

“Where is he now?” Buck asked, laying a hand on Chris’ arm to hold the gunslinger still. He didn’t want the other man going off half-cocked. And if I’m keeping him from doing it, I’ll be too busy ta do it myself.

“He left.” Ezra shrugged. “I have no idea of his whereabouts.” Buck got the impression Ezra really didn’t want to know either.

“You let Nate look you over?” Chris watched Vin like a hawk.

The tracker nodded. “Jus’ need ta take it easy for a bit.”

“That why you rode up here so slow?”

“Mr. Jackson thinks Vin might have cracked a rib. He advised him against any rough riding.”

Buck knew first hand that riding with bruised ribs was not a pleasant experience. So why ride at all? Why do it if you don’t have to? They could have waited for us to come back to town. We were plannin’ ta be back tomorrow for lunch.

“You boys didn’t come all the way out here just to tell us this.” The tall cowboy frowned. The fact that they still had yet to dismount seemed even more significant. “Did you?”

“Not solely that. No.” Ezra bit his lower lip.

“You’re leaving.” Chris stated flatly, almost accusing. “Running out.”

“That had been our first inclination.” Ezra admitted, spine straight, shoulders square. Buck was impressed that the gambler didn’t even try to lie, that he didn’t back down. He didn’t know very many men who could face Chris without flinching the way Ezra did almost daily without even batting an eye.

Green eyes met and held dark blue. “It was an established condition that our relationship would not affect our work. Having Mr. Sanchez be openly hostile could have deadly consequences in relation to our peacekeeping duties. Mr. Larabee….Chris, you know as well as I that if we can’t function as a team, someone will suffer for it.”

Buck’s jaw tightened. He knew Ezra had promised Chris that his being involved with Vin would not get in the way of doing the job. And despite appearances to the contrary, Ezra took giving his word very seriously.

The gambler’s lips twisted in a bitter smile. “And our leaving could be explained easily. No one ever expected me to stay. It would take little to convince them I have moved on for greener pastures. And Vin is a wanted man. Our exodus is unlikely to garner much attention.”

Buck scowled. “Josiah’s going could be explained just as easily.”

Ezra shook his head. “Not if he didn’t choose to go willingly. How would you explain forcing him to leave, Buck? And what would guarantee the man’s silence? You know there are townspeople who would be more than happy to forcibly eject the likes of Vin and I from the territory. Assuming of course they didn’t opt to simply lynch us.”

“Said leaving was your first inclination.” Chris tipped his head. “Sounds like you changed your minds.”

“We did.” Vin responded. “Sort of.”

“What the hell does that mean?” Chris ground out between his teeth.

“It means, JD thinks once Mr. Sanchez is given some time to gain perspective he will realize he acted in haste, spoke out of turn and will come to see reason.” Ezra’s tone clearly expressed his doubts, but Buck knew the gambler wanted the young sheriff to be right. He silently cheered his protégé for being able to talk Vin and Ezra into not leaving.

“Givin’ JD and Nate a chance ta talk to him. Figure if they can’t get him to get his head outta his ass in two days, then we’ll leave.” Vin added. “Reckoned it would be better for us not ta be in town, jus’ in case Josiah gets ta shootin’ his mouth off.”

“You two plannin’ ta stay here?” Buck asked thinking the ranch would be as good a place as any to spend two days. And if it ends up taking more than two days, we could find a way ta keep them here longer.

“No.” Both Vin and Ezra answer simultaneously. They shared a brief look before Ezra continued speaking. “There is a possibility that some of Mr. Sanchez’s anger is related to the fact that he was not informed about…us. That others knew before he did.” 

The gambler made a graceful, meaningless gesture. “As you are aware, it was not our intent to isolate him or deliberately keep him uninformed. But he may feel that we have done so. If that is the case, it would be best for him not to have any more justification for feeling wronged. Nor would it be wise to place Chris in such an untenable situation. It would not be right for us to impose.”

“I can speak for myself, Ezra.” Chris frowned heavily. “You’re friends of mine. That ought to be reason enough for you to be staying here. You are welcome any time and it’s not an imposition.” Chris’ hand came to rest on his gun. “I can handle trouble.”

“I thank you for the invitation.” Ezra dipped his head in an abbreviated bow, green eyes warmer than they’d been a moment ago. He was clearly pleased to have been referred to as a friend and to be so openly welcomed. Buck read the head tip that Ezra did to be slightly deferential. “I never doubted your ability to ‘handle trouble’, Chris.”

The gambler’s expression turned rueful. “Mr. Sanchez is not some desperado attempting to rob the bank.  He was a comrade, an ally, and as such deserves a greater level of consideration. I think it best if we don’t exacerbate the situation.” Ezra smiled sadly. “Your gun may well alter his actions, but I seriously doubt use of force will be sufficient to affect his intentions.”

Buck grimaced. In other words…you can kill him, but you can’t change what he thinks. Damn shame that what he thinks matters, so treating him like the enemy just isn’t a real option here. Ez is right about that. Didn’t miss that Ezra used the past tense when he said Josiah was a ‘comrade’. Makes me wonder just what the hell the preacher said. Whatever it was, it sure did some damage. Never would have pegged Josiah for being intolerant, but hell, you never can tell with people.

“So where will you be?” The tall cowboy interjected before Chris could argue, knowing that their minds were made up and arguing would be a waste of time.

“Around.” Vin answered with a smile that let Buck know he wasn’t getting a more detailed answer. “Told JD we’d meet up here in two days.”

Buck nodded. He felt better knowing they’d already planned to meet up at the ranch. He wasn’t sure what to think about what to do if Josiah couldn’t be made to see reason. Staying in Four Corners without Vin and Ezra didn’t seem all that appealing.

“You got enough to hold you for a few days?” Chris asked. “Yep.” Vin smirked, and patted his rifle. “Can always kill somethin’ ta eat if we run short.”

Buck wasn’t surprised. Most of them made a habit of keeping a day or two worth of supplies in their saddlebags. Keeping the peace meant they never knew when they might have to hit the trail. Being on the trail with Ezra, Buck knew he routinely kept his saddlebags stocked. And if any one could live off the land…it’d be Vin.

Chris sighed. The gunslinger didn’t look happy but Buck knew he was willing to accept the situation, at least for the moment. “Things still quiet in town?”

“When we left, Four Corners was still sedate.” Ezra replied. “No one noticed our exodus. Nor do I believe is anyone aware of the discord amongst our ranks.”

“Two days?”

Vin and Ezra both nodded, obviously not bothered by Chris’ need for confirmation.

“Don’t be late.” The lean man ordered. Buck knew it was implied that Chris would come to find them if they were.  And he won’t be doing it alone either. Not letting them just sneak off. No sir.

Ezra touched two fingers to the brim of his hat acknowledging both what was said and unsaid. Vin just tipped his head slightly. When Peso and Chaucer stepped back from the trough moving together and turned, Buck knew the conversation was over. He idly wondered if he’d missed some signal between the two of them. Last time I saw a move that coordinated was on a parade ground. Kinda miss seeing that sort of horsemanship. Can’t say I miss the army one damn bit though.

As the two younger men disappeared, moving at the same slow, steady pace they’d rode up with, Buck sent a questioning glance toward his long time friend. Know JD is getting good at handling things, and he’s got Nate with him, but I’d still feel better being there. ‘Specially since JD’s bound ta try and talk to Josiah. The man attacked Vin, and Vin’s got some years, and size on the kid. Wouldn’t put it past the preacher ta try to do the same to him that he did to Vin. And it’ll be a cold day in hell ‘fore I let him do that to JD.

“We finished here?”

Chris pursed his lips, nodding his head more to himself than Buck.  “Corral can wait until we know things are settled in town.”

Buck breathed easier. He’d have stayed if Chris wanted him to, but he was really glad they were heading back to town. We get this shit straightened out. Everything else can wait a bit.

*******

Vin and Ezra rode silently. The tracker was content to enjoy simply being with his lover, letting the quiet settle his nerves, ease his mind and relax the left over tension. He knew they needed to talk, to discuss what had happened in town. They needed to work out how to deal with whatever the outcome would be in two days, where they would go if things went badly, under what conditions would they be able to stay. But he could sense Ezra’s desire to not deal with it just now. Can’t say I blame him. Don’t really want to talk right now either.

They could talk when they got to where they were headed. It wouldn’t take them long to get to where they were going since Chris’ ranch was more than half way there. Although, Vin seriously doubted Chris even knew the spot existed. The gunslinger wasn’t prone to exploring the countryside the same way Vin was wont to do.

Once out of sight of Chris’ cabin, they headed due north. Just over an hour later they were riding up a dry wash full of scrub brush and junipers. Hidden in this desolate, arid place was a small oasis. If one didn’t know it was there, the surrounding countryside would not reveal the presence of a small spring. Stunted ancient cottonwoods and weeping willows were the only indication a water source was nearby. The arched, almost weeping form of the willows seemed to be Mother Nature’s effort to further conceal the pool of cool water. The tiny spring fed pool was deep enough for Vin to submerge in during the wet season. During the summer, the pool was little more than knee deep. And Vin suspected that in some years it dried up entirely.

He’d found the spring shortly after settling in Four Corners. It was one of his favorite spots. Quiet, sheltered and secluded. It was a haven for when he needed to simply get away from town, but couldn’t really go too far. Vin brought Ezra to it not long after they became lovers, wanting to share it with him. To his surprise and delight the gambler had loved the spot just as much as he did. It had become a regular get away for them whenever they left town.

Ezra dismounted with a deep breath and quiet sigh. Vin shot him a questioning glance as he also dismounted. Catching Vin’s eye, the gambler’s expression turned solemn. “I will miss this spot.”

“Don’t know for sure that we have to leave.” Vin cautioned.  He hoped JD and Nathan could talk sense into Josiah. Failing that, Chris and Buck might be able to sway him. “No point in borrowing trouble yet, Ez. We got two days.”

The gambler quirked an eyebrow. “I have found it best to prepare for the worst, Cheri.”

“We got two days.” Vin reiterated.

“Two days.” Ezra nodded. “Much could happen in that time.”

Vin reached out to caress Ezra’s cheek with back of his hand, knuckles ghosting along the high cheekbone. He knew Ezra may have seemed casual about leaving Four Corners when he spoke to the others, making it sound easy, but he knew how much his lover wanted to stay, how attached he’d become to the town and its people. He shared the sentiment. “I’m sorry, Ez.”

Ezra smiled sadly. “As am I.”

Vin turned his hand to cup Ezra’s face. “Shoulda known better than ta kiss you in the tack room.”

“And I should have known better than to allow it.” Ezra turned his head to place a kiss in Vin’s palm. “We are both at fault there. It is done. Hindsight maybe be crystal clear, but is of no use when it comes to altering events.”

The gambler’s expression shifted into something Vin couldn’t quite read. “I cannot help but wonder if we had told him….if we could have discussed—“

Vin halted Ezra’s words by placing one finger lightly against his lips. “We never planned ta tell any of them. The plan was to wait for them to ask us. Remember?”

Vin waited until Ezra nodded before continuing. Seeing he had his lover’s complete attention, Vin dropped his hand. “Rest o’ the boys and Nettie came ta us. Josiah’s the only one we ever talked about tellin’. And we were just waiting for the right time.”

Vin grimaced. “Given how Josiah reacted…I’m not so sure that there would have been a right time, or right way. Kind o’ think he might have been upset no matter what.”

Ezra frowned, brows furrowing slightly. Apprehensive green eyes searched blue. “Tell me honestly, do you not believe JD and Nathan might be able to sway Josiah?”

“Still think they might be able ta make him see reason.” Vin held Ezra’s eyes easily not wanting the gambler to think he was lying about this. “Ain’t givin’ up hope there, Ez.”

Vin sighed, realizing more of an explanation for his earlier comment was needed. “I’m just not sure that how Josiah found out really makes that much of a difference. Us tellin’ him instead o’…showin’ him, don’t mean he woulda accepted us with open arms.”

“It might have lessened the shock.”

“Yeah and if pigs had wings they might fly.” Vin gave Ezra a stern look.  “No ‘what if’, no ‘could have’, no ‘should have’. We deal with what did happen. Same with this as with everything else.”

Ezra chuckled softly. He tilted his head and kissed Vin’s cheek. “Right you are.” He straightened, shoulders square, expression resolute, the momentary uncertainty gone as if it had never been. “Let’s get settled, shall we? If you would see to the fire, I’ll see to the horses.”

They would talk more once they had things set up and could get comfortable. Vin knew Ezra was probably planning to give him the easier tasks. But he didn’t argue. Would lose anyway. He’ll tell me I shouldn’t over do it. That Nate said to take it easy. Getting the life strangled out o’ ya is enough to wear a body out.

And he was tired. He’d been up at dawn for the morning patrol. Gone along to help Ezra teach the children. And ridden to Chris’ ranch, after the confrontation with Josiah. The last thing he wanted was to fight with Ezra over something as stupid as who did what to get them settled in.

So Vin let Ezra unsaddle the horses, and hobble them. Not that either animal was likely to stray very far, but it was better to be safe than sorry. While Ezra was doing that, Vin ducked under the overhanging branches of the largest willow. The foliage was dense enough to create a fairly solid canopy, almost like a tent.

He’d dug a small fire pit on an earlier visit and had dried wood waiting near by. Getting a small fire going took no time at all. The branches were thinner in this spot, easily letting the smoke pass through, but thick enough to break up the column, making it less readily visible to anyone in the area.

They had some canned provisions hidden in the boughs of the taller trees, out of sight and reach of most large wild animals. Canned goods generally didn’t have much scent to attract bears or coyotes, but again, it was better safe than sorry. Vin considered the idea of shinnying up the tree for what he wanted, but decided against it. No reason to get Ezra wound up. He grinned to himself. An’ I kinda like watch him climb the tree.//

Vin unrolled a bolt of heavy canvas cloth they also kept hidden nearby. Ezra would sleep on the ground when he had to, but he didn’t really enjoy doing it. The canvas didn’t really provide much in the way of a cushion, but it did serve to keep their bed a bit cleaner. It provided some additional warmth in the early morning chill and kept some of the damp from the ground from seeping through their clothes. It could also be used as a tent for those times when it rained enough that even the willow couldn’t keep them dry. 

Ezra placed their saddles in the usual spot near the fire. He hung his hat from the saddle horn and slipped out of his coat laying it across the cantle. Without word he deftly climbed the tree, going up it with the same casual grace and economy of motion that defined nearly everything he did.

Vin stopped to watch. He couldn’t help it. A well-dressed man shinnying up a tree to retrieve a sack of provisions should have look ridiculous, but nothing could be further from the truth. There was something so tantalizing about seeing Ezra move effortlessly, oddly at ease in such an incongruous activity, the play of muscle both accented and yet hidden by his carefully tailored clothing. There was no hesitation in his movements, no uncertainty as he scaled the tree moving from one sturdy branch to another.

The gambler easily undid the knotted rope that held the burlap sack of supplies. He lowered it as far as the rope would allow before dropping it into Vin’s waiting hands. Rather than climb down, Ezra swung from the branch, dangling for a moment before releasing his grip to drop to the ground. Ezra landed squarely on his feet, knees bent to absorb the impact.

Vin shook his head. “Yer gonna break yer neck one o’these days.”

Ezra rolled his eyes. “Nonsense. I’ve jumped for far greater heights and suffered no misfortune.”

Vin’s half smile appeared, knowing that in a similar position he’d have made the exact same argument. No wonder Nate gets so bent outta shape with us. ‘Tween the two of us it’s a wonder he ain’t nuts.

It was a bit early to eat supper, but when on the trail, they usually ate early, banking the fire to minimize the light and smoke that with the setting sun might attract undo attention. The routine of fixing a meal helped to re-establish their usual rapport. Between what they had brought with them in their saddlebags and what had been hidden, they created a simple, but satisfying meal. There were even canned peaches and spiced dried apple rings for dessert.

Ezra handed the can of peaches to Vin for him to finish. Peaches were Vin’s favorite and he wasn’t about to refuse. And eating the moist fruit was easier on his sore throat than anything else. It hadn’t really hurt him to swallow, but he’d taken his time about eating not wanting to risk choking or aggravate his throat further.

He watched curiously as Ezra heated more water. It was too late for coffee. The gambler retrieved his jacket and withdrew from the inside pocket a small packet. “Watcha got, Ez?”

“Tea.” Ezra smiled. “Mr. Jackson was kind enough to supply enough for both of us.” Green eyes assessed him for a moment. “In your case it is medicinal. In mine, I simply happen to like it.”

Vin had to agree that the cup he’d had in the clinic wasn’t as bad as the stuff Nathan usually foisted off on them. Still, it wouldn’t be his drink of choice. “You got yer flask?”

“Yes.” Ezra chuckled. “And no, I’ll not be adding any scotch to your cup of tea.”

“Aw c’mon, Ez.”

Ezra shook his head. “Imbibing something stronger can wait until your throat has fully recovered.”

“Doesn’t hurt that bad.”

Ezra arched an eyebrow. “But it does hurt.” A statement, not a question.

Vin silently cursed. He knew his slip of the tongue cost him, and that Ezra hadn’t failed to notice his eating slower than normal. He opened his mouth to try and convince Ezra that one drink wouldn’t hurt, but the gambler held up a hand halting him before he even got started.

“If it makes you feel better, I will forgo the scotch as well. But you are not getting any tonight.”

“You don’t have to go without, Ez.” Vin appreciated the offer, but he didn’t want his lover to be denied his favorite ‘libation’ on his account. Don’t seem fair.

“I rather dislike drinking alone.” Ezra smiled warmly at him. Having someone else willingly deny himself anything on Vin’s behalf was still a novel enough occurrence that Vin found himself smiling delightedly in return.

The gambler finished making the tea. He let it steep before adding a pinch of sugar to each cup to sweeten the flavor. Shame we don’t have any honey on hand. Vin made a mental note to add it to the list of things they kept stored here. Assumin’ we get to stay in the area that is.

Ezra handed Vin a cup and sat next to him. Ezra relaxed back against his saddle, sipping his tea. Vin had wanted to follow his example but his the cracked rib and bruises he’d gotten earlier were letting him know that wasn’t a good idea. They hadn’t bothered him much before now.  Vin knew once he actually stopped moving the muscles would stiffen some, adding to the overall body ache.

He finished his tea quickly, not really wanting to linger over it, drinking it more to satisfy Ezra than any other reason. Vin sighed and shifted trying to get comfortable. Ezra set aside his cup and settled into a more reclined position.

“Come, Cheri, lay down.”

They both knew lying on his back was not really an option. Vin dropped his hat on his saddle and turned so he could rest his head on Ezra’s shoulder. The gambler’s heartbeat thumping steadily under his ear, comforting Vin as he stretched out and settled in. Ezra’s right hand lightly stroked up and down Vin’s spine. His touch was light enough not to cause pain, and still deep enough to feel good.

Vin bit his lip, thinking over the day’s events yet again. He never really expected to stay in Four Corners forever, but he also hadn’t given much thought to where he would go when he left. Initially he figured he’d just head to Tuscosa and try to clear his name. But once he and Ezra got together, Vin wasn’t sure he wanted to risk it. He had more to lose now than he used to. Last thing in the world he wanted was for his lover to be witness to him being hung.

It’s okay ta hope for the best. Even when a man’s got nothin’ else, he’s always got hope. Vin pursed his lips in thought. I like living here. Like bein’ a part of somethin’. Know Ez does too. Gonna hurt like hell if we have ta go. And knowing that the best case scenario might not be the end result, Vin knew they also needed to plan. He wasn’t any more comfortable with entering into a situation blind than his lover was. No time like the present.

“You give much thought to where you wanna go…if we do have ta leave?” Vin asked softly after several minutes of just enjoying being next to his lover.

“There was a time when I would have had a ready answer to that question waiting on the tip of my tongue.” Ezra sighed softly. Vin felt him nuzzle his hair, placing a kiss before continuing. “I have not seriously contemplated the option in some time.”

“But ya thought about it?” His question was more of a statement, but Ezra answered anyway.

“Yes.” Ezra sighed again. “Many times.”

“Why did ya stay?” It was a question Vin had often thought about before he and Ezra had gotten together. He had worried Ezra might pick up and leave any time. Four Corners was hardly the sort of place that was likely to hold a man of Ezra’s education, and sophistication for long. And for a gambler, there were definitely greener pastures to be had elsewhere.

“At first, it was simply a matter of staying until my agreed upon term of thirty days was over. During that time I became rather fond of the people and place we were hired to protect. When the thirty days were completed…well, I was unwilling to leave and intended to stay for as long as I was permitted to do so.”

Vin lifted his head so he could make eye contact. “Why?”

“Because you were here.” The gambler’s tone was matter-of-fact, but his smile was warm. “And even if I were too much the coward to act upon my feelings, I was not willing to abandon the opportunity to simply indulge myself in being around you.”

“Yeah. Same for me.” Vin raised a hand to caress Ezra’s cheek. “And yer not a coward.”

“Merci.”

“Ain’t gotta thank me for that.” Vin stated firmly. “It’s the truth.”

Ezra kissed Vin chastely on the mouth, the gesture more of gratitude and thanks than passion. Ezra moved his hand to card through the tracker’s long locks, making him want to purr in pleasure. He never tired of having his hair played with. Ezra encouraged Vin to lay his head down again.

“Is there somewhere you would like to go?” The cardsharp asked, easily bringing the conversation back to its starting point.

“Not really.” Vin shifted, one arm resting passively across Ezra’s abdomen, holding on loosely. “Wouldn’t mind going ta California though.”

“Really?” The surprise was evident in Ezra’s voice.

“Yeah.” Vin nodded his head against Ezra’s shoulder. He’d surprised himself with his answer. California wasn’t a place he’d ever really talked about before.

“Heard tell they got these huge trees there. Fella who told me ‘bout ‘em said they was over a quarter mile tall, and more’n thirty feet around. Always figured it was just a tall tale, but I wouldn’t mind seein’ for myself.”

Ezra chuckled, a sound Vin both heard and felt. “I’ve heard similar tales. I believe they call the trees Sequoias.”

Vin’s brow furled. “Funny name for ‘em.”

“It’s Indian, I think.” Ezra’s free hand waved in a meaningless gesture. “I do not really know for certain.” The right hand continued to softly massage Vin’s scalp, combing through his hair in long strokes. “Who told you about them?”

“Fella I was in the war with.” Vin snuggled in a bit closer to Ezra. “Was a whole bunch o’ us signed up ‘bout the same time. Charlie was the oldest…think he was twenty. He was a great storyteller. Never knew if he was just spinnin’ yarn or if he was tellin’ ya the truth.”

Vin shrugged one shoulder. “Anyway, Charlie’s daddy moved their family ta California from Georgia when they heard ‘bout findin’ gold there. Didn’t ever work the mines though. Charlie’s daddy was a logger. Said they felled a lotta trees for the mines ta use.”

“I suspect they still do.” Ezra murmured.

Vin knew the mines were still operating. It seemed like new strikes were being made all the time. He’d never cared for the idea of working underground. Just the thought of being in such closed in, dark places, with so much unstable rock above, made him shudder. Can’t understand why anyone would wanna work in a place like that.

“Ya think they cut down all those real big ones Charlie talked about?”

“I doubt they have managed to cut all of them, yet.” Ezra patted his shoulder. “What happened to Charlie? Did he survive the late unpleasantness?”

Vin smiled slightly. ‘Late Unpleasantness’ was an odd euphemism for war, but he’d heard it many times, usually from southerners. “Last I heard o’ him, he’d headed back out ta California ta help out with his family.”

“Ah, family. It can be both boon and burden.” Vin couldn’t quite decipher the emotions he heard in Ezra’s voice.

Only family Ezra’s ever talked about was Maude…and his uncle Malcolm.  Sort o’ runs the gamut there. Got good and bad.

“You got family that you wanna visit?” Vin asked hesitantly, not sure if he should ask or not. “We can do that if you’d rather.”

“No. I was merely commenting on the nature of filial relationships, not implying there was anyone I should pay a visit to.” Ezra hugged him lightly. “If we are to make an exodus,” the gambler took a deep breath, hesitating for a moment, “I would prefer to tour the scenic wonders with you.”

“Okay.” Vin readily agreed.

“Have you family that you would like to see?” Ezra asked.

“Nope.”

“No one?”

“Well, no one that’s a blood relative.” Vin clarified “My Pa died when I was two. Some kind of accident. Not sure what. Don’t really even remember him, ‘cept for what my Ma told me. She said he was a good man. Someone whose name I should be proud ta have.” He regretted not remembering the man, or having a chance to get to know him, but it didn’t hurt to talk about him. Vin didn’t talk about his father much simply because he had so little to say.

His mother was another story. He still missed her.  Even though he couldn’t picture her face clearly any more, he could still hear her voice singing the lullaby she sang to him every night. Vin cleared his throat. “You already know about the fever taken my ma when I was five.”

He felt Ezra place another kiss in his hair. Vin shifted so he could settle more of his weight on and against Ezra, taking comfort just from being close to his lover. He took a breath and let it out slowly.

“Might have some cousins or somethin’ runnin’ around. But there weren’t no family around that I remember who wanted ta lay claim to me. Never even ran into another Tanner that I remember.”

“You said there was no blood relative.” Ezra spoke hesitantly as though he was feeling his way. It was a hesitancy Vin understood. Neither of them was inclined to press when it came to asking information about the other’s past, both willing to respect whatever boundaries the other chose to draw. “Is there someone who was like family? Perhaps someone who is to you what Aunt Mattie is to me.”

Mattie was not really related to Ezra, but the gambler had referred to her as his aunt. She had taken care of Ezra for a time when he was a child, and they still wrote to each other regularly. The tracker bit his lower lip thinking about people who held a similar position in his own life.

“You know I spent time with the tribes.”

Vin felt Ezra nod against the top of his head. “I know.” The gambler waited patiently for Vin to continue.

“Most o’ the people I knew….well, the army either killed, or forced on to reservations.” Vin sighed.  “Not sure if I could find ‘em or if they’d even wanna see me.” He’d left the tribes and gone back to the white man’s world. There was no guarantee he’d be welcomed back.

“I’m sorry, Mon Couer. So very sorry.”

The apology was heartfelt and Vin knew Ezra meant it. He found it more comforting than he’d expected. He patted Ezra’s chest. “Not yer fault. Nothin’ to be sorry for. Just the way it is.”

“Does not make it right.”

“No. No it don’t.” Vin rubbed his cheek against the soft fabric of Ezra’s shirt. The fine weave felt incredibly soft against his skin. He confessed with his voice little louder than a whisper, “Got ta thinkin’ of you…and the others as my family now.”

“As have I.” Ezra answered, his voice equally soft. The light chuckle that followed surprised Vin. “Although, I must confess, having brothers is definitely a novel experience.”

Vin snickered. “That’s one way o’ puttin’ it.”

His humor dissipated quickly as he once again thought about having to leave, losing yet another family. Still, if he couldn’t have both, then he considered just being with Ezra a fair trade. He enjoyed the closeness and camaraderie he had with the others. But he’d lived without that before and could survive without it again if need be. Ezra was a different story. He loved the gambler, heart and soul. He wasn’t sure that he could to live without the other man. And he knew for certain that he didn’t want to. So he’d pick Ezra every time, even if it meant leaving the others behind. They had talked about some of this before and he had no doubts that his lover shared his feelings.

Vin knew Ezra’s mood had shifted to match his own melancholy when the cardsharp sighed. “I never truly expected all of us to live indefinitely in Four Corners. It seemed so…utterly unlikely given our respective professions, personalities and habits. But I harbored the faint hope that we would part on good terms when the time came.”

“Still might.” Vin offered. “Only one we ain’t on good terms with right now is Josiah. And hell, we all been on the outs with each other from time to time.” Course it was never anythin’ quite like this…Not gonna mention that. No reason ta dwell on it.  “We managed to mend fences every other time. No reason to think we can’t do it again.”

He raised his head to again make eye contact. “I never expected JD and Nate ta be the ones to go to bat for us. We got Chris and Buck too.”

Ezra smiled wryly. “A most unforeseen turn of events.”

“Not really. Always figured Bucklin would be ready ta take our side.” Vin grinned thinking of the book Ezra had recently started reading to him. “He seems like the sort to tilt windmills.”

Ezra laughed lightly. “And that would make Mr. Larabee Sancho?”

Vin chortled, trying to picture Chris in that role. He failed miserably. “Okay, so maybe he’s someone else.”

“Undoubtedly.” Ezra winked at him. “Sancho would more likely be JD.”

“Yep.” Vin didn’t have any trouble picturing that.

“His open acceptance of us was so akin to Buck’s.” Ezra shook his head, expression a bit bemused. “I have not been able to ascertain if that is due to Buck’s influence, or if JD is more worldly than we gave him credit for.”

“Could be a bit o’ both.” Vin shrugged, again laying his head on Ezra’s shoulder. He’d never really given it much thought, content to just have JD accept them, thrilled that the kid would stand by them.

Things had gone so well as they gradually widened the circle of people who knew they were a couple, Vin had honestly thought Josiah’s reaction would be more accepting than it had been. Oh maybe not as open and approving as Buck and JD, but Vin hadn’t anticipated him reacting as badly as he had. Sure never expected him ta get all fire and brimstone on us. Should have expected Ez to know how to argue against it though.

Vin knew he’d never have been able to counter a religious argument. His own exposure to religion was spotty at best. Church sponsored orphanages or the occasional run in with a missionaries made up the bulk of what he knew. And in all honesty, he found most professed Christians to be hypocrites. Love yer neighbor…sure. Didn’t keep ‘em from using orphans as cheap labor, sendin’ them ta bed hungry, or using a switch so hard and so often ya couldn’t sit down fer a week. All that stuff they spouted ‘bout God never kept them from stealing the tribe’s land. Or killing the women and children.

“Was pretty impressed that you know the Bible as well as Josiah. Was a right smart answer ya gave him.” The pride he had in his lover was unmistakable in his tone.

The gambler made a meaningless gesture with his left hand. “As I said before, when one pulls a con, it must stand up to scrutiny. The more you look and sound like you know what you’re doing, the less likely people are going to question it.”

Ezra laced his fingers through Vin’s, their clasped hands resting on his chest. “And I doubt the point I made will prove to be terribly effective if Mr. Sanchez truly believes what he said.”

“If? You think he might not?” Both Vin’s brows rose. Don’t think Josiah had any doubts. Man seemed pretty damn sure of himself in the stable when he’s callin’ us an ‘abomination’.

“He has never professed such views before.” Ezra squeezed his hand. “In fact, there have been many times when he has stated quite clearly that he did not agree with such a rigid stance.”

“Well why the hell would he say that if he didn’t believe it?”

He felt Ezra shrug. “Sometimes people behave poorly when under stress. They say and do things they don’t mean. Reacting rather than thinking it through.”

Vin sincerely hoped that was the case. Assuming the man was honestly sorry about doing it, he could bring himself forgive Josiah for trying to strangle him. Josiah thought he was protecting Ezra and Vin was willing to let it go rather than let it create an irreparable rift among the group.

He wasn’t so sure he would so easily forgive the preacher for the hurt he caused Ezra with his careless words. Ez told me once that words are like weapons…and I’ve seen ‘em used ta cut people ta the bone so I know he’s right. Might not be any bruises on Ez, but Josiah hurt him, drew blood for sure. Iffen he didn’t mean it, then he never should o’ said that stuff.

Mentally brushing that aside to be dealt with later Vin stated firmly, “We got us a plan.”

“Do we?”

“Yep.” Vin nodded against Ezra’s shoulder. “We give the others a chance ta fix it with Josiah. Find out where he really stands. We talk ta him in two days ta see what sort o’ progress was made. Things work out okay, we stay.” That was the option he knew both of them would prefer.

“Things don’t work out so well,” a possibility he knew they needed to be prepared for, “then we go see if those big trees really do exist.”

Ezra brought their joined hands to his lips and placed a soft kiss on Vin’s knuckles. “Agreed.”

JD and Nathan had opted to give Josiah some time to think and cool down. As the only two peacekeepers in town, both men felt it would be better for them to carry out their routine as normally as possible. No one else knew about what happened in the livery. And no one else needed to.

It wasn’t unusual for Vin and Ezra to ride out of town together. They came and went all the time. So, their ride out hadn’t generated undo interest or concern. If anyone asked, JD figured they could simply say Vin and Ezra had gone to the village.

Nor was it odd that Josiah might disappear for hours on end. He didn’t do it as often as Vin or Ezra, but he did it frequently enough that no one was likely to comment on his absence. JD knew he was still in town because his horse was still in the livery. The sheriff had taken the time to unsaddle the animal and put him away after Vin and Ezra had ridden out.  

So Nathan straightened up his clinic and JD returned to the jail. They’d agreed to keep an eye on the saloons, wanting to make sure Josiah didn’t end up in an alcohol-induced rampage whenever he reappeared. JD reflected that he almost preferred Chris’ form of anger. The gunslinger was more the type to sit in a corner drinking silently and brooding. He rarely lashed out unless someone was foolish enough to confront him. Josiah on the other hand seemed to enjoy brawling when he was drunk, reveling in the destruction.

Rounds were made and people greeted as if it were any other day. If people noticed JD was a bit less talkative, or his eyes harder, they didn’t comment on it. The plan didn’t alter much with Buck and Chris’ return to town. No one questioned their early return, in part because few people in town actually knew when they were due back.

Buck had pulled up outside the jail and told him Vin and Ezra had been by, so they knew the score. JD had nodded, silently accepting that bit of information. He’d already figured that was the reason for their early return. 

Buck took over watching the saloon and Chris took night watch, Ezra’s usual shift, giving JD and Nathan a chance to relax for a bit. JD managed not to puff up with pride when Chris gruffly told him he’d done the right thing. The town was their responsibility no matter what other problems or issues they might have to deal with at the same time.

JD figured morning might be the best time to catch the big man and talk. Assuming of course he’s not holed up somewhere nursing one hell of a hang over.// He wouldn’t be surprised if Josiah had a stash of liquor somewhere. Most of the others had a bottle or two they kept handy.

JD thought it would be best if he talked to Josiah first and not one of the others. Buck couldn’t or wouldn’t understand the preacher’s animosity. Buck’s just a big sucker for romance. And I don’t think he understands why not everyone shares his view. Course in some ways I don’t get it either. But I can’t see him making an argument that Josiah’s gonna be willing to listen to.

Chris was simply to spare with his words. And this is one situation where just glaring and pointing a gun won’t cut it. That is more of a last ditch option, I think, than a first choice. In some ways, Josiah’s a lot like Ezra. They both need words, some sort of verbal connection.

Nathan was Josiah’s oldest friend, and while he might be the one with the best shot at getting through to Josiah, JD didn’t think it was fair to put him in the middle. Would be like askin’ me to talk ta Buck or Buck to talk ta me. Just wouldn’t be right.

JD started his search in the church. It seemed an obvious place to start, but he didn’t honestly expect to find the preacher there. He sighed when his expectations were met.

JD stood on the steps of the church and gazed out over the town. He pursed his lips thinking about what he knew of Josiah. Can’t be too damn far because his horse is still in town. So where would he go?

JD grinned when he realized he knew exactly where the preacher was. The cemetery was just outside of town. Encircled within the fence the town folk had constructed to protect the site was a grove of juniper trees. Josiah had erected a small stone bench among the trees. When asked why he’d bothered, the former preacher said that a quiet, comfortable place of contemplation was often needed by those in mourning.

Don’t know if he’s mourning or not, but I got a feeling he was looking for a quiet place to think. Can’t really think of a better place to do that. He’s not gonna be interrupted or bothered there like he would be in the church. Doubt he’s been there all night, but I’m pretty sure he’s there now.

JD strolled to the cemetery, considering his arguments as he walked. He forced himself to breathe slowly and deeply. He wanted to be in control when he spoke. He certainly didn’t want to fumble around, struggling to think of what to say or how to say it. Josiah wouldn’t take him seriously if he sounded like a child throwing a tantrum.

The sheriff opened the gate and closed it behind him. He detoured around the graves, not wanting to show disrespect to the dead by walking among them, or over them. There was a time when just the thought of being in a graveyard would have made him nervous, but since moving west he’d taken a more pragmatic approach. The dead were not a threat, it was the living you had to worry about.

He picked one of the trees to the right of the bench and leaned against it, taking a moment to silently observe the big man as he sat staring at the rising sun. Looks like he didn’t get any sleep last night. Good. Makes two of us then.

“You sober?” JD asked casually, dark eyes harsh in their appraisal of the other man. “I’m not talking to you if you’re drunk or hung over.”

Josiah’s eyes narrowed, resentment and a touch of shame shading his expression. JD didn’t give a damn. Man is judged by his actions. Any other time he got upset or out o’ sorts he’s been drunk or hung over for days. If it bothers him that other people expect him to act that way, and have the balls to call him on it, then he should quit doing it.

After a moment, the former preacher answered his question. “I haven’t been drinking.”

“Good.” JD nodded. His voice hardened, taking on a tone Chris would have recognized as his own. “Yesterday, you could have killed Vin. That’s not stepping over the line, Josiah, that’s taking a running jump.”

Josiah surged to his feet, taking a step toward JD. “I know that! Do you think I don’t know that!!??”

JD was not the least perturbed by the big man’s outburst. He wasn’t sure why, but he was confident Josiah wouldn’t hurt him. Besides, he had learned a while ago that showing fear got him nowhere. So, JD didn’t move other than to cross his arms over his chest.

“That mean you’re sorry?” He kept his voice level and even.

Josiah’s jaw tightened, and he looked away. “Not for trying to help Ezra when I thought he needed it, no.” The former preacher sighed and rubbed a hand over his face. “For hurting Vin…yes, I am very sorry about that.”

“Well that’s a start.” When Josiah’s blue eyes rose to meet his dark counterparts in askance, JD continued. “Wanna tell me why it was you were so brutal in the first place?”

He held up a hand when Josiah would have answered immediately. “It wasn’t just because you thought Ezra in danger. He’s been beat up, shot at and damn near blown up. Never got that reaction out of you before. So, I think it’s safe to say there is more to why you did what you did than just you thinking Vin was hurting him.”

Josiah shook his head, eyes down cast focusing on his hands. “I can’t…I’m not…I really don’t know.”

JD raised both eyebrows. He wasn’t sure he believed that statement or not, but he suspected he wasn’t likely to get an honest answer at this point. JD opted to let it go for the moment. He wasn’t dropping it entirely, but he figured they had time to get back to it. And I’ll be going back to it. Not gonna be put off that easy for long that’s for sure.

“You know they are thinking of leaving.” He threw out, knowing he’d scored a hit when Josiah’s head snapped up, blue eyes wide with surprise.

“Leaving?”

“Yep.”

The older man looked toward town and he stepped away from JD clearly intent on heading back. JD’s next statement stopped him cold. “They aren’t there.”

Josiah’s head snapped around. “They’ve left already? When?”

“Yesterday.”

Josiah stared at him. “You said they were thinking –”

“Just gone for a couple days.” JD clarified, interrupting smoothly. “May not come back though.” JD decided to blunt was the best way to go with this. Some how he just didn’t think Josiah would understand any other way.

Actions have consequences. Ezra has told me that more than once. Buck too, in his own way. Always want me to see that what I do could get me killed or get someone else killed. Think before I act. And this may not be the same thing as somebody dying, but if Vin and Ezra leave, then that destiny Josiah’s always said brought us together is sure gonna be belly up. JD had already made up his mind on what he’d be doing in if Vin and Ezra decided not to return.

“You may just get a chance to set things right.” He cocked his head to one side. “Unless of course you think how things stood yesterday when you stormed out of the stable is setting things right.” JD’s lips twisted in a bitter smile. “In which case, we don’t really have anything else to talk about. Do we?”

Josiah gave him a hard, assessing stare. JD wasn’t sure what the other man was looking for but he stood up straight, and waited. “You’d take their side?”

“I already have.” JD answered flatly. He’d never really considered the issue to have sides. “They are my friends.”

“And me?”

JD shrugged. “We were friends.” He emphasized the past tense of that statement. “We can still be. But not if you meant that crap you were spouting yesterday.”

Josiah stiffened. “Quoting passage from the Good Book is not spouting crap.”

JD regarded the other man calmly. “So you agree with that bit Ezra quoted then? That one about owning slaves?”

“No!”

“Didn’t think so.” JD smirked slightly. “Otherwise you and Nathan would never have been friends.” He cocked is head to one side. “So you telling me that you are picking and choosing which parts you want to believe in? Cause if that’s the case, it should be just as easy to ignore the bit you were reciting yesterday.”

Josiah sighed heavily and looked away. When his spoke again his voice was just barely above a whisper. “I never should have said that to them.”

“No. You shouldn’t have.” JD agreed not willing to back down or ease up just yet. There was too much at stake. “The question isn’t about what you said, but whether you believe it or not. Do you really think they are going to burn in hell for loving one another?”

JD didn’t give him a chance to answer. “Don’t remember ever seeing that in the ten commandments. Seems to me things like murder, adultery, theft and a bunch of others all rank right up there in God’s list of things you aren’t supposed to do.”

“Sodom and Gomorrah—“

“Sure aren’t Four Corners.” JD stated unequivocally. “I’m thinking if God had a problem with Vin and Ezra he’d have spoke up and done something about it before now.” He knew he was probably being what others might consider sacrilegious, but he figured the God his mother had taught him to believe in would understand he meant no disrespect. He had no trouble believing in or being afraid of divine retribution. If God wants to smack someone around, I’m pretty sure he doesn’t need human help to do it. Don’t imagine any of us would be considered good enough to do the job anyway.

“And since when did you decide it was your job to start doling out divine wrath?” He asked quietly, lip curling sardonically. “There’s a whole lot of sin in this town you’ve seen fit not to notice or condemn.”

Josiah flinched, and then glared. “I’m not condemning them.”

“Then what are you doing?”

The big man all but growled in frustration. “I was angry yesterday. I spoke out of turn. I don’t believe….” He took a breath. “I don’t believe they are an abomination.” He waved his hands clearly venting a bit more of his irritation. “I shouldn’t even be arguing with you now but here I am doing it.”

Josiah walked away a few steps and turned. He walked back, stopping to face JD when he was arms-length away. “I only mentioned Sodom and Gomorrah to prove a point. The point being,” he pointed a finger at JD’s chest, “not every thing God finds offensive is in the Ten Commandments.”

He squared his shoulders, towering over JD. “And I don’t agree with everything in the Good Book. I certainly don’t hold with slavery.” He sighed, blue eyes troubled, almost deflating before JD’s eyes. “An eye for an eye just leaves everyone blind.”  

“Okay.” JD nodded slowly. “So you lost your head and said things you didn’t mean. That the about the size of it?”

Josiah reluctantly nodded. “More or less.”

Still haven’t gotten to the reason why yet. JD opened his mouth to ask that question for a second time, but Josiah started speaking.

“I sounded like my father yesterday.” Josiah took a deep breath. JD raised both eyebrows surprised to see the big man looked ashamed. He would have thought being like one’s father was a good thing. Or maybe not, if Josiah’s expression is anything to go by.

The big man turned and sat down on the stone bench. He leaned forward to rest his elbows on his knees, eyes focused on the ground between his feet. “I used to listen to him stand at the pulpit and shout out his rigid dogma, raining fire and brimstone on his audience. Did the same thing with his family. On one hand I can almost understand how that uncompromising view was attractive. It was a black and white world that left no room for doubt or interpretation. I suppose it could even be comforting to some.”

Josiah looked up, his eyes meeting JD’s. “And on the other hand it was so depressing, so stifling and hurtful. It left no room for discovery, or appreciation. It left no room for forgiveness or compassion. No room to err.”

The former preacher sighed heavily. He raised a hand to rub tiredly at his eyes. “I thought I’d out grown his views. That I’d managed to encompass a more open understanding. A relationship with God that did not require such a harsh, unbending view.” He took a deep breath. “But I think I may have failed.” 

JD pursed his lips considering what Josiah had said. “Don’t think you failed. Not really. If you had, then what happened yesterday wouldn’t bother you.” And it’s pretty obvious it does bother you. “Think maybe you slipped is all.” JD offered quietly.

Josiah smiled wanly at that. “Slipped?”

“Lost your way, if you prefer.” JD shrugged, knowing Josiah had used that expression before. “You made a mistake.”A damn big one, but still just a mistake. “We all have made those from time to time. It’s what you do now that matters.”

Josiah nodded. “Do you think….do you think they will forgive me?”

Good question. Don’t really know the answer…and I’m not going to lie. JD forced himself to take a moment and put his words in order.  “Only way to know if they are willing to forgive you is to apologize. And you have to mean it. It’s up to them from that point.”

He pushed back his hat. “But, I think that Vin and Ezra are willing to listen. Neither of them want to leave here. And none of us honestly want them to go. But they are going to want to know why before they forgive you. If for no other reason than to be sure it doesn’t happen again.”

Josiah’s brow furrowed. “What do you mean why?”

Dark eyes met blue. “Your father is only part of it, isn’t he?”

Josiah’s eyes narrowed. “How do you know that?”

“Contrary to what everyone around here thinks…I’m not that naïve.” JD smiled. “I know you. And I know there is more to what caused you to loose your temper than how you were raised.” He studied the big man. “You don’t have to tell me, but you are going to have to tell them.”

Josiah sighed, and dropped his eyes again. He rubbed his hands together. “I had a son. Aaron.” He spoke so quietly JD had to lean forward to listen to him. “I was….away, when men came looking for me.” The big man’s head hung further. “I found out later that they killed him because he wouldn’t tell them where I was.”

JD winced. He was fairly certain the loss of a child was one that a person never fully got over. At least not based on the examples he’d seen. The sheriff honestly hoped he never knew that sort of loss, much less the corresponding guilt.

Josiah lifted his head enough for JD to see him smile sadly. “In a lot of ways Ezra reminds me of him. The more time I spent with him the more those similarities stood out. I know it was…foolish, but I found myself feeling paternal toward Ezra. I caught myself thinking of him the way I thought about Aaron. Forgot that Ezra’s a grown man. He didn’t want or need a father.”

Josiah sighed. “But I…I wanted to rekindle that closeness with him that I had with my own son. Get a second chance.” He licked his lips. “And I forgot it wasn’t just about what I wanted. I pushed too hard. Assumed things. Demanded when I should have asked.”

JD frowned, thinking. “When Vin got shot…something happened between you and Ezra then. Didn’t it?”

“Yes.”

Thought so. Was some weird tension there, but I figured if it was any of my business they’d tell me. Thought it had worked out. Seemed to anyway since Ezra and Josiah have been getting along well since then. Until yesterday anyway.

“You got to thinking of him like he was your son.” JD said carefully, working his way through it as he spoke. “So when you see Vin kissing Ezra….you think what? That you have to defend his honor the way you would have defended Aaron had it been him Vin was kissing? Forgot that Ezra’s not a kid but a grown man?”

“Something like that.” Josiah took a deep breath. “And I was jealous. Vin is so close to Ezra. So much closer than I will ever be and I thought he was abusing that friendship. That he had this…priceless gift and he was throwing it away to satisfy some baser instinct. That he had tricked Ezra to get him to lower his defenses enough to take advantage of him.”

Josiah held up a hand when JD would have spoken. “I know it is stupid. I know. Vin’s not the sort to do that. And Ezra’s no fool and a fine judge of character. He wouldn’t bestow his trust in someone he didn’t think worthy. Not to mention he’s conned people for a living so it’s hardly rational to think he wouldn’t see a con be carried out.”

Well, you wouldn’t be the only one who worried about Vin playing with Ezra’s feelings. Had my own concerns there. But I think I handled it better. Course I didn’t walk in on them kissing, but then even if I had, I’d like to think I wouldn’t automatically think the worst.

JD decided to point out the same argument Ezra had so eloquently made the other day. “Ezra’s damn good with his gun. Can’t see him letting anyone take something from him by force and not fighting back.”

Josiah just dipped his head in acknowledgement. “I just…I was so angry and I wasn’t thinking.”

Got that part. “So you over this bout of being stupid then?” The question was blunt but so far blunt had worked pretty well.

Josiah grimaced. “Yes.”

“You got a problem with them as a couple?” JD wanted to be certain. If Josiah’s hostility was solely related to him being caught off guard, shocked, then he shouldn’t have a problem with it now that he had time to adjust. But I won’t know that until he tells me so.

“Who else knows?” Josiah asked abruptly, ignoring JD’s question, standing once more.

JD frowned. He didn’t know if Josiah was simply trying to avoid answering his question or if he was going somewhere with the one he’d asked. He decided to answer Josiah’s and see where it led. He didn’t see any reason not to.

“Besides me and Nathan…” JD shrugged one shoulder, “Chris, Buck, and Nettie know.”

“Why didn’t they tell me?” Josiah’s voice contained a note of hurt at being excluded. Blue eyes demanded an honest answer.

The young sheriff snorted. Would think your reaction yesterday might explain that clear enough. Probably wouldn’t be smart to say that. Not when I want to smooth things over, not make them worse.

“It wasn’t like they just up and told any of us.”

Josiah suddenly looked horrified. “Oh tell me they weren’t that stupid.”

Know what he’s thinking. The big dumb ox is sure we all walked in Ezra and Vin in a moment of ‘indiscretion’. No wonder Ezra says assumptions are dangerous.//

JD stepped forward and slapped Josiah’s arm with his hat, making a disgusted noise as he did it. “Wish I were taller, I’d a whapped ya one across the back of the head like Buck does to me.”

JD knew he had to be wearing the same expression he’d seen the others give him whenever they thought he’d said or done something particularly unintelligent. “First of all, they weren’t as stupid as the assumption you are making. It’s not like the tack room is out there, in front of God and everyone, on the street in broad daylight. Nobody is usually around the livery that time o’ day and they wouldn’t be the first couple to sneak a kiss in.”

JD wanted to cement the idea that despite both parties being male Vin and Ezra were not really that much different from any other couple. It was how he saw their relationship and how he thought Josiah should see it as well. “If it had been Buck with one of his ladies, Nate with Rain, or me with Casey, you wouldn’t have even raised an eyebrow over it. You sure as hell wouldn’t have read the situation as wrong as what you did yesterday. Can’t see you slamming one of us up against the wall for it.”

He kept talking not letting Josiah contradict his assessment or argue against it. “Secondly, the only reason any of us know is cause we up and asked. We all noticed something was going on between them and were smart enough to ask them about it.”

“And just what was it you noticed?” Josiah asked with an odd mix of reluctance and eager curiosity.

“You can’t tell me you never realized Ezra shares his scotch with Vin, lends him books to read, takes care of Peso for him. Or that Vin has been watching Ezra’s back in the saloon when he plays poker and makes sure the restaurant has pie for him.” JD shook his head slightly. “I know you were there when Vin got shot in the leg and Ezra got stabbed in the saloon. You saw how little it took for them to convince each other to let Nathan take care of them. You saw how much they care about each other.”

“I guess I thought they were just good friends.”

“They are good friends.” JD rolled his eyes. “They just also happen to be more than that.”

He sighed. “Look…when I went to talk to Vin about what I’d noticed, he took me to talk to Ezra. Said the two of them had talked about it. They decided it was better not to tell people, but waited to see if anyone noticed. And if anyone asked, they agreed to face whoever it was together and answer the questions openly, honestly.”

“Why?”

JD frowned. “Because they weren’t going to lie. It’s not like they got anything to be ashamed of.”

Josiah waved a hand. “No, not that.  Why wait until they were asked?”

“Because they are both entitled to their privacy. They don’t have to tell anyone about who they are in love with any more than Chris has to talk about his wife and son, or you have to talk about your father.” JD pointed out reasonably.

“Besides, they aren’t stupid. They both know their relationship doesn’t exactly fit in with what other people think of as normal. There are people in this town that would run them out on a rail. Tar and feather them. Hang them from—“

“I get it.” Josiah snapped.

“Do you?” JD’s eyes narrowed. He still hadn’t gotten an answer to his earlier question. “I’m not as good a judge of character as Ezra, but until the other day, I wouldn’t have put you in the group of people they needed to watch out for.”

“I wouldn’t do that to them.” Josiah stated firmly.

Ya did yesterday. JD pursed his lips, but held wisely his peace about that. Instead he asked again, “So then you don’t have a problem with them being together?”

The former preacher took a deep breath. He closed his eyes for a moment before opening them to meet JD’s squarely. “It may take some time for me to wrap my mind around the idea…to really come to terms with it…but as long as Vin doesn’t hurt Ezra and it’s what Ezra really wants, then,” Josiah sighed, “I’m okay with them being a couple.”

JD breathed easily for the first time all morning, finally feeling his shoulders relax for the first time since yesterday. “Okay then.” He nodded. “You’ve got some time to think yet.”

At Josiah’s questioning look, JD added. “Vin and Ezra agreed to be at Chris’ ranch tomorrow. We’re supposed to meet them there.”

He smirked, dark eyes bright with good humor again. “Gives you enough time to practice your apology. ‘Cause, I’m pretty sure they are gonna want it to be a damn good one. All that time you’ve spent on your knees just might pay off.”

Josiah’s expression turned rueful. “You may well be right.”

“I know I’m right, Preacher.” JD patted him on the arm.  Ezra’s not going to easily forgive Josiah strangling Vin. He’ll make him work for it, but I’m pretty sure in the end he’ll let it go. Figure Vin will be just as pissed about the whole thing…maybe more. Hard to say. In the end though, I know Vin likes it here. He wants to stay. I think he’ll be willing to forgive Josiah’s moment of stupidity. So long as it doesn’t happen again.

“I’m gonna go get some breakfast.” JD stretched. “I’ll leave you to your ‘contemplation’.” He patted Josiah’s arm again as he walked by. “Take your time. The rest of us will keep an eye on things until you’re done.”

He was several steps away when Josiah called out to him. “JD?”

JD half turned, looking over his shoulder. “Yeah?”

“Thanks.”

He raised two fingers to the brim of his hat. “You’re welcome.” He smiled slightly. “Everyone deserves a second chance. Make sure you don’t waste yours. I doubt you’ll get another.” With that he turned and headed back to town.

*******

Buck shifted in his chair in front of the jail, propping his legs up on the railing, letting the late afternoon sun warm him. After lunch, he’d convinced JD to lay down and grab a nap by telling him he should rest up for the late night shift. He didn’t honestly expect Chris to assign Ezra’s usual shift to JD. But he knew the young sheriff hadn’t gotten much rest last night. The dark circles under his eyes and general lack of animation were dead giveaways.

Kid just takes so much ta heart. Buck smiled fondly glancing over his shoulder glance through the open door catching a glimpse of JD sleeping in the closest cell. Course it might be what made it so easy for him to talk to Josiah.

Buck’s smile grew into a grin as he thought about Chris and Josiah meeting on the boardwalk earlier in the day. Chris hadn’t said a word. He’d just looked at the big man, his expression speaking volumes.

Josiah had held up a hand. “Save it. JD has already said all there is to say. I don’t reckon there is much more for you to add.”

Buck had quirked an eyebrow, but hadn’t commented. Since Chris rarely said much, it wasn’t hard to imagine JD being far more adept with words than the dark clad gunslinger. Chris just turned his head slightly to spit. “And?”

“He talked. I listened.” Josiah squared his shoulders. “That kid has turned into a mighty fine young man. He can be rather eloquent when he wants to be.”

Chris nodded slowly, accepting that statement as proof that the former preacher was going to make peace with Vin and Ezra. Buck felt a flush of pride in his young friend. He might not know exactly what JD had said, but he had no doubt the kid could rise to the occasion and be as convincing as Ezra if need be. And keeping his family together sure fit the bill.

When Josiah moved to pass Chris, heading for the church, the gunslinger moved to stand in front of him stopping him cold. Dark blue eyes met Josiah’s lighter counter parts, the gaze unwavering. His voice was quiet, but clear. “Don’t let it happen again.”

The threat of violence was left unspoken but was unmistakable. Josiah’s jaw tightened. He nodded accepting Chris’ position. It was well known that Chris protected who and what he called his own. Buck wondered if Josiah realized how lucky he was that Chris hadn’t been in town yesterday, or that JD had made a point of being the first to speak to him today. Things coulda got ugly.  Real ugly.

Josiah cast a questioning look toward Buck. The ladies man just shook his head. He was too disappointed in Josiah’s behavior and reaction to finding out about Vin and Ezra to articulate what he was thinking. He didn’t want to risk ruining what JD had probably worked hard to fix. The way the older man’s eyes shifted, Buck knew his disappointment had been easy to read. 

Buck sighed and settled deeper into his chair. He hadn’t slept well last night either. He’d kept one eye out for Josiah and the other on Chris. He knew his old friend well enough to know that it wouldn’t take much for the anger simmering below the surface to reach the boiling over point. He was honestly surprised that Chris hadn’t pushed it with Josiah when they met earlier in the day. Course, if JD hadn’t gotten through to him, pretty sure things would have been different. Still, I guess we’ve all got reason to be grateful Josiah wasn’t quite as hard headed about this as I was afraid he would be.

Buck yawned. He would be glad when all this was settled and things got back to what passed for normal for them. Buck resolutely pushed the faint fear that things might not be that simple. He’d find a way to deal with it if the situation arose, but until then he doggedly looked for the silver lining, not the cloud.

He caught a glimpse of Nathan heading into the church. He nodded to himself. Buck wasn’t surprised that Nathan would eventually make his way there. Hunh. Didn’t reckon he’d be able to wait as long as he has. Kinda glad Ez isn’t around. Would a lost that bet for sure.

Josiah had not joined them at lunch and the healer had fidgeted throughout the meal, anxious to talk to his friend. JD’s calm assurance that Josiah just needed more time to think and come to terms with things hadn’t really assuaged Nathan’s concern. Buck chuckled remembering the look on Nathan’s face. Don’t think he really believed JD was able to handle Josiah so easily.

Buck figured that Nathan might be the best one to help Josiah ‘come to terms’. Had to do it himself. Not for the same reasons, but it wasn’t like Nate accepted Vin and Ezra at first either. Course neither did Chris, but knowing him like I do, he’s forgotten that he ever had to adjust.

Chris was like that. Once he made up his mind the man had a tendency to forget there was ever an issue to be decided on. Buck had grown accustomed to that quirk and knew it had merit in a leader. It was far better to have decisive action, even if it was wrong, than to have a commander who constantly second-guessed himself or waffled back and forth. While it was good in battle, it was not a trait that always made simple, everyday aspects of life easy to address.

Buck was heartily relieved, on more than one occasion, by the differences in the personalities that made up their group. Sometimes it caused clashes among them, but more often than not, it made it possible for the seven of them to work together. And he wanted them to continue to do so for as long as possible.

Buck yawned again. There wasn’t much going on in town at the moment. The ladies man knew Chris was riding patrol. The gunslinger would never admit it, but Buck suspected he was looking for signs of Vin and Ezra. Know he trusts them to show up like they said they would, but that doesn’t mean he won’t be keeping an eye out just the same. Swear that man has some serious mother hen inclinations. Needs to make sure his chicks are all right.

Buck tipped his hat to shade his eyes, chuckling to himself over the image he had of Chris as a chicken riding herd on a small flock of chicks. Tomorrow they’d get this taken care of. Then he could go back to spending time with the ladies, and stop losing sleep fretting over his friends.

*******

Ezra closed his eyes and tilted his face toward the sky. He was a night owl by nature, fully appreciating the sable beauty of night with her silver finery of moon and stars, but that didn’t mean he didn’t enjoy the warmth of the afternoon sun and brilliant blue sky. And while he could never lay claim to reveling in Mother Nature’s bounty to the same degree his lover did, the gambler enjoyed being outside. He found the peace and quiet of their favorite spot to be soothing to his spirit.

Ezra sat near the spring in a half-dressed state his mother would be appalled to witness. He’d forgone his jacket, vest, socks and boots, leaving his shirt untucked and only half buttoned, his pant legs rolled up so he could dangle his feet in the water without soaking his clothes. He breathed deeply allowing himself to simply be in a way that wasn’t possible in town, in the presence of other people. Well, Ezra amended that thought, in with anyone other than Vin that is.

He opened his eyes to study his lover. Vin was dozing next to him, curled up on his side, his head pillowed on his capote. The tracker had been up at dawn, as per his usual custom. Ezra had really only fallen asleep after Vin had awoken. Despite thinking of this spot as being a safe place for them, ingrained habit had made it impossible for Ezra to sleep deeply unless he knew someone was keeping watch. So as per their usual habit, Ezra went to sleep when Vin woke. When Ezra got up shortly before noon, they shared the mid-day meal before relaxing near the spring and just enjoying the day.

Ezra reached out to gently ran his knuckles over Vin’s cheekbone, careful not to disturb his slumber. The tracker had professed his throat felt better, but the bruises Josiah’s hands had left stood out in stark contrast to Vin’s normal skin tone. The gambler knew the bruises would likely linger for several days. He worried more about the possibility of a cracked rib. That would take longer to heal.

He frowned, green eyes pensive as they turned back to stare out over the small pool.  Ezra was so deeply lost in his thoughts he was honestly startled when Vin’s hand moved to encircle his wrist. “Stop brooding so loud.”

Ezra cocked his head, one eyebrow arching. “Brooding doesn’t make noise.”

Vin sighed. “Does when you do it.” A half-smile appeared. “Probably ‘cause you don’t do it all that often. Yer rusty.”

“Rusty?” Ezra chuckled. “Should I be insulted by that?”

Vin’s smile grew. “Nah. Not being good a brooding is not a bad thing.” The smile faded. “Tell me what you’re thinkin’?”

Ezra waved his free hand in a vague gesture. “Little bits of everything, I’m afraid.” He wasn’t sure he could articulate his thoughts any better than that. They were scattered, disjointed, half-formed at best.

“You worried about tomorrow?” Vin’s sky blue eyes studied him.

“No.” Ezra laughed dryly. “More like what happens after that.”

“Ah.” Vin nodded his head, squeezing Ezra’s wrist in understanding. “It’ll be okay. Nothin’ we can’t face as long as we’re together.”

Ezra smiled warmly, dimples appearing. “Such confidence is commendable.”

“Haven’t had reason to doubt us yet.” Vin’s tone was very matter-of-fact.

Ezra dipped his head, conceding Vin’s point. Since they’d become a couple they had yet to face anything they hadn’t been able to handle together. Ezra shook his head, slightly bemused by it. I wasn’t always so confident that would be the case.

“You know…I thought Chris would be the greatest obstacle.” Ezra confided quietly. “I never expected him to accept us. Not really.”

He was disappointed in himself to have misread his comrades so badly, to have sold the gunslinger short. Chris’ initial acceptance had been conditional, but it was a far better reaction than Ezra had anticipated. He had been so certain that he would lose both his place in Four Corners and Vin when Chris questioned their newborn relationship. And he never thought Josiah would be so hostile, or so physical in expressing his displeasure. He didn’t think he was losing his touch, his ability to read people, as much as he was sure strong emotions were clouding his judgment, his ability to assess people and situations logically.  His own wants and desires, fears and uncertainty made it difficult to step back and make an impartial assessment.

“I figured it would be Buck we’d have trouble with.” Vin snickered, raising himself up on one elbow, drawing Ezra back from his thoughts. “Was sure he’d be flabbergasted by two men who wanted ta be together.”

“A good thing no wager was made.” Ezra smiled wanly. It was comforting to know he wasn’t the only one to have misjudged their associates.

Vin bit his lower lip, expression thoughtful. “I’m not sure I’d call us being wrong about them as a loss.”

“A loss…no.” For once, Ezra had been relieved, grateful even, to be wrong. “More like a pleasant surprise.”

Vin released his wrist and sat up. He stretched his arms overhead, and sighed. “Have ta admit the one who surprised me the most was JD.”

Ezra arched an eyebrow. JD was actually the one he’d had been the least concerned about. “JD is decidedly loyal to those he considers friends…and family.” The gambler still found it somewhat disconcerting to be placed in either category.

Vin nodded in response to Ezra’s comment. “I know.  Jus’…”, the tracker waved a hand clearly searching for the right words to express his thoughts.

“It is easy to forget that despite being the youngest of our number he is not really a child. Far from it actually.” The cardsharp shrugged one shoulder. “Our outward influence may be pervasive but he is fully capable of making up his own mind and acting accordingly.”

“Yeah.”  Vin waggled his eyebrows. “Kid is pretty smart. Guess I jus’ didn’t realize how smart until lately.”

The tracker ran a hand through his hair, raking through the long curls and yawned widely. He bumped Ezra’s shoulder with his before laying his head on the same shoulder. “I love you,” he whispered.

Ezra tilted his head to rest his temple against the top of Vin’s head. “And I you, Vin.”

“Wanna show me?” There was an eagerness in Vin’s voice, a warm invitation. “Or I could show you if ya want.”

Ezra smiled, lifting his head so he could glance slyly at his lover. “Show each other perhaps? Mutual displays of affection?”

Vin grinned, eyes lighting up. “I’ll make it worth yer while.”

“You always do.”

Vin moved swiftly. In one single motion he managed to straddle Ezra’s hips and push him on to his back without ever really gaining his feet. Vin’s hands moved to caress Ezra’s chest, the unbuttoned and untucked shirt proving to be no obstacle, giving him easy access to the smooth expanse of skin. A wicked smile lit Vin’s face.

“You should dress like this more often.”

Green eyes narrowed. He would not be seen like this anywhere else. It would be undignified. It was not a condition befitting a gentleman.

“Such a state of undress is hardly,” he gasped, unable to finish his sentence when Vin lowed his head to nibble at a spot just below his ear, a spot that always made him go weak in the knees. He tipped his head back involuntarily; unconsciously encouraging Vin to continue his gentle assault. The tracker’s hands continued to ghost over his chest, pausing to tease his nipples, making Ezra sigh softly.

As much as he wanted and needed to indulge their passion, he didn’t want his lover to suffer any pain either. He moved his hands to cup Vin’s face, pulling the tracker’s head up so he could make eye contact. “Your ribs?”

“Are fine.” Vin answered firmly, blue eyes easily holding green. “Making love to you won’t hurt me any.” His eyes twinkled. “Might even help.” He smiled lasciviously, licking his lips. “You always make me feel mighty damn good, Ez.”

His voice had roughened, gotten softer and deeper as he spoke, making Vin’s tone husky, warm and tempting. Ezra’s cock hardened just listening to it. The tone was audible proof of his lover’s rising ardor triggering a sympathetic response in him that Ezra couldn’t and didn’t want to resist. He pulled Vin toward him, kissing him deeply. Ezra tried to explore every bit of that well loved, familiar grotto, committing to memory again the texture, flavor, and terrain.

When they broke the kiss both were panting for breath. Ezra noted that Vin’s eyes had gotten dark, the shade shifted from sky blue to almost indigo. His suspected his own were equally dark with desire and need.

Vin shifted enough so his hands would have easy access to undo Ezra’s pants. Ezra was making short work of the buttons on Vin’s shirt eager to feel satin smooth skin under his hands. The tracker tilted his head back, eyes closed, hands suddenly still, clenching the material of Ezra’s pants when Ezra started to tease his nipples.

The gambler was fully aware of how sensitive Vin was and relished in the reaction such light, deft touches invariably generated. He liked pleasing his lover, liked generating pleasure as much as he enjoyed receiving it. He sat up enough so he could replace his fingers of one hand with his lips and tongue. He was careful not to dislodge Vin from his perch while he suckled, making the little nub he was laving peak and harden further. He applied his teeth, lightly nipping his way across Vin’s chest to the other nipple. Vin whimpered in response to his tender assault, arching his chest trying to get closer.

Ezra lazily kissed his way up to the hollow of Vin’s throat. He knew if he lavished too much attention of Vin’s chest it could get uncomfortably intense for the sharpshooter, more like pain than pleasure, and he didn’t want that. He was careful to keep his touch feather light, not wanting to aggravate the bruises his lover bore around his neck. He smiled against Vin’s skin remember when he’d suffered similar injuries and Vin offered to ‘kiss it and make it better’. Time to return the favor.

The tracker had started to grind his pelvis against Ezra’s in a languid, sensual movement. The gambler doubted his lover was even conscious of doing it. The effect on Ezra was undeniable and he moaned softly. There was too much fabric between them. He wanted more skin. A lot more. Only one way to rectify this.

He pulled back, waiting for Vin to look at him dazed blue eyes somewhat unfocused. He smiled softly. “You have on too many clothes.”

Vin blinked and then grinned. “Can fix that.” He placed a hand in the center of Ezra’s chest and pushed him down again. With graceful shrug Vin divested himself of his unbuttoned shirt. He rose smoothly to his feet, giving Ezra a slow wink as he undid his belt and button fly. He balanced neatly while shimmying out of his pants.

Vin bent from the waist to finish undoing Ezra’s pants. “Lift up.” He commanded softly. Ezra complied and Vin slipped his pants down over his hips to his knees. Both eyebrows rose in surprise at the lack of any more clothing. A wicked smile appeared as one hand caressed Ezra’s bare flank. “You should definitely dress like this more often, Ez.”

“I may consider it.” Ezra licked his lips, eyes slanted coyly, his tone teasing when he spoke. “Perhaps I shall forgo my undergarments more often. Say while we ate dinner or played poker.”

Vin took a ragged breath and swallowed hard. “Jus’ the thought…o’ you not wearin’ all them layers…not so covered all the time.” He closed his eyes, sinking to his knees to straddle Ezra’s hips again. “God, Ez. Know it’s stupid. Yer not talkin’ about runnin’ round naked but…that really gets to me.”

Ezra captured Vin’s hand where his fingers were still making light circles causing his skin to tingle. He raised the hand to his lips, kissing the palm. “It’s not stupid.” It was rather endearing that his lover would find something so simple to be erotic.

Vin nodded slowly, turning his hand to cup Ezra’s face before he leaned forward and kissed him. He placed kisses on Ezra’s forehead and eyelids before landing on his mouth. He continued to work his way down Ezra’s chest, stopping to suck and bite hard enough just above his heart to mark him.

“Mine.” Vin growled softly, kissing away the momentary inconsequential pain his action caused.

“Yours.” Ezra agreed. He usually sported at least one of Vin’s marks and rather liked doing so. But then I mark him just as often.

Vin reached to grab his jacket from where it still lay folded near by. He withdrew from one pocket a small tin Ezra easily recognized. He offered the tin to Ezra.

“I feel like goin’ for a ride.” He whispered hoarsely, nuzzling Ezra’s neck. Ezra nodded, not trusting his voice.  ‘Goin’ for a ride’ was how Vin referred to the position when he took Ezra inside him while being on top. The gambler thought the expression rather apt.

He opened the tin and lightly coated his fingers. He prepared Vin’s tight entrance, taking his time, delighting in the small sighs and moans his ministrations produce. He did his best to ignore the affect Vin’s slow rocking of his pelvis and the rubbing against his leaking erection was causing. He bit his lip when Vin moved his hands to run fingers through his hair and stroke every reachable bit of skin, shuddering with the effort to not simply give in to the sensations.

“Now, Ez.” Vin panted. “Please….Please.”

Ezra nodded, unable to refuse such a heartfelt plea even if he wanted to. He offered the tin to Vin. He turned his head slightly, unable to watch as Vin’s long fingers stroked and coated his rampant hard on. He hissed out his enjoyment of being touched in one long breath. No one ever made him feel this good. Ever.

His hands gripped the earth, fighting to stay in control as Vin rose up and slowly lowered himself. He took in Ezra’s cock so slowly it was sweet torture. Ezra resisted the urge to thrust, not wanting to rush the moment. He wanted this to last as long as possible.

Ezra waited for Vin to adjust and settle himself before he rolled his hips in one long, deliberately sensuous movement. He knew he’d gotten the angle and motion right. The way Vin’s internal muscles clamped around him, the way his lover shuddered, mouth dropping open to emit a satisfied sound not unlike a big cat’s rumbling purr were unmistakable proof his lover liked what he did. So he did it again.

They began moving in concert, starting with a slow steady rhythm. Ezra always wanted to prolong these quiet, buzzing moments of simply feeling good. It would all too soon give way to driving urgency, spiraling tighter and upward to push toward completion.

Ezra moved a hand to stroke Vin’s cock. On each up stroke he let the pad of his thumb ghost over the glans, making Vin tip his head back, tendons standing out in stark relief. Ezra fought to keep his eyes open wanting to see the building ecstasy on Vin’s face, to see the flush that encompassed his skin, to watch the play of muscles of Vin’s powerful thighs as lifted himself up and down.

As their movements gained speed, Ezra closed his eyes, unable to handle the combined physical and visual input. Even with his eyes closed, Vin’s soft sighs, moans and mewling cries of pleasure continued to urge him to thrust harder, faster and deeper. He moaned softly, biting his lip trying to maintain some measure of control.

“God…Ezzzzra.” Vin grounded out, his voice barely recognizable. The tracker was panting and saying his name over and over again, almost chanting it.

Ezra knew he was babbling something, giving voice to the same sort of desperate, unintelligible plea as his lover. It was like the whole universe was winding tightly down to a single point, like riding a tidal wave and trying hard not to drown. He could feel the tingle starting at the base of his spin and small tremors that heralded his climax. He resisted, not wanting to come before Vin.

Vin’s cock twitched in his hand as the tracker’s entire body tightened almost vibrating with tension.  Ezra knew he was close. He ran his free hand up and over Vin’s chest, tweaking a nipple between thumb and forefinger knowing that was all it would take to push him over the edge. Vin shuddered and came with a coyote like howl. As he shot his seed on Ezra’s chest the corresponding internal spasms had Ezra releasing his own into Vin’s tight channel.

Vin collapsed forward, catching his weight on his elbows, resting his head on Ezra’s shoulder, breathing hard. Ezra’s own breathing was far from steady. He could feel his pulse pounding, which contrasted pleasantly with the overwhelming feeling of lassitude and satisfaction.

Vin’s skin twitched randomly, something Ezra knew happened after a particularly intense orgasm. He thought of them as aftershocks. With a soft sigh Ezra raised a hand to card through Vin’s curls petting him in a movement that they both found soothing. The action eased the passion of the past moments into something less intense.

Vin nuzzled his neck before raising his head to make eye contact. “You okay?”

Ezra chuckled, green eyes bright. “I think I should be asking you that.”

Vin winked. “I am so much better than okay. I’m great.” He kissed him, a soft press of lips to lips. “Told ya…you always make me feel good.” The last bit was just as whisper soft as his lips had been.

Ezra smiled. “Yes, well, I would hate to have proven you wrong.”

“Woulda been ungentlemanly of ya.” Vin waggled his eyebrows. “Course since ya sort of takin’ to runnin’ around half dressed, I can’t really think o’ you as a gentlemen.”

Ezra laughed lightly. “Does that mean you don’t want me to wash those hard to reach places for you?” His voice was decidedly suggestive. It was something of a habit for them to clean up in the pool after making love in this spot, to take the time cleaning each other, which more often than not led to a repeat performance.

Vin looked decidedly appalled at the idea of Ezra not washing his back. “No.” Vin answered firmly. “Not just no, hell no.”

He disentangled himself from Ezra and struggled to his feet. He offered a hand to Ezra to help him to his feet. The gambler didn’t need help getting up, but he appreciated the gesture just the same.

“I’m thinkin’ the water should oughta be almost as warm as what you like in the tub.”

At this time of year, the pool was sufficiently shallow that the sun would have warmed it to a more or less comfortable temperature. Ezra made a graceful, inviting motion to toward the water. “Shall we find out, Mr. Tanner?”

Vin grinned. “We shall, Mr. Standish.”

*******

Josiah did his best not to look at the others. He didn’t fidget, kept his hands still, his back straight, eyes forward most of the time. For the first time he was beginning to appreciate just how easy Ezra made it look to seem nonchalant and at ease. He knew the gambler had to be as nervous or uncomfortable in their presences as one time or another, just as he was now, but it never showed.

The ride to Chris’ ranch seemed interminable. His nervousness communicated itself to Prophet, making the big gelding toss his head uneasily and prance far more than he normally did. Josiah was almost grateful that Prophet was more fractious than normal. It gave him something to concentrate on.

Chris and Buck rode ahead, Lady and Sable moving in step. Josiah’s pensive gaze landed momentarily on the gunslinger. The set of Chris’ shoulders was telling. The man was still angry, but he was controlling it. Josiah was still amazed that Chris hadn’t lashed out physically. He almost wished the man had. It would have been easier to take a beating.

Josiah glanced toward Buck. The tall cowboy’s obvious disappointment in him had hit hard. Buck asked relatively little of people, tending to accept them as they came. It was easy to forget that the man was more than an affable, fun loving sort. Not being able to measure up when someone expected so little and tolerated so much left Josiah feeling like he’d been irreparably diminished. He preferred Chris’ open censure to Buck’s quiet disappointment.

A glance to the right out of the corner of his eye confirmed JD’s presence. The kid rode quietly, something unusual. Normally he and Buck would be talking, laughing and joking with each one another and the others. Despite his silence, Josiah didn’t feel any reproach from him. JD had spoken his piece and the big man knew he that he’d been forgiven, at least conditionally. It all hinged on how he behaved from here on out and on whether or not Ezra and Vin were willing give him another chance and stay in Four Corners. Josiah got the distinct impression that the young sheriff had already come to some sort of decision as to what he’d do in response to either outcome. He found it mildly disconcerting that someone half his age should have such a clear vision of his path.

Nathan rode on his left. Initially, Josiah had been relieved to learn that his long time friend had had some difficulty accepting Vin and Ezra’s relationship. But he’d been insulted and angry on Ezra’s behalf to learn that Nathan had thought the gambler might be using Vin. He was honest enough with himself to admit Nathan’s assumption had been no worse than his own. And Nathan had at least talked to them. Josiah acted before he thought, lashed out before getting all the facts, something he thought he’d outgrown.

Josiah shook his head. Too soon old, too late wise. These thoughts weren’t helping. He knew he was simply avoiding thinking about the coming confrontation. No…no. This is not going to be confrontational. We’ll talk. We’ll work this out.

Josiah took a deep breath, and then another. JD looked over at him, and smiled slightly. The younger man spoke softly. “Josiah, it’ll be okay.”

He wished he had JD’s confidence. Well, if I don’t have it, I can always try to fake it. Sometimes it works. Resolutely Josiah squared his shoulders, and lifted his chin. He’d made a mistake. He was going to own up to it, and make up for it.

He unconsciously clenched his jaw as they rode into the ranch yard, uncertain despite his resolve. Ezra and Vin were sitting on the porch, their horses stood in the shade cast by the house, saddles on, but the cinches were loose. Ezra had a deck of cards in his hands, shuffling lazily. Vin was whittling something with his knife.  He wasn’t really carving as Chris did, more like simply turning a stick into thin shavings as a way to pass the time.

Chris and Buck stopped their horses in front. Neither man dismounted, but settled themselves more deeply into their saddles. Nathan pulled up slightly, allowing Josiah to precede him.  He maneuvered Abe so that he was now on Josiah’s right, next to JD, putting Josiah squarely in the middle.

Ezra patted his cards into place with precise, dexterous movements before slipping the deck into his jacket pocket. He rose smoothly to his feet, adjusting his coat. He tipped his head slightly in acknowledgement. “Gentlemen,” Ezra drawled quietly.

The greeting encompassed them all, but his green eyes focused exclusively on Josiah. The big man tried not to shift uneasily under that steady gaze. He didn’t know what the gambler was looking for, but he hoped whatever it was, he found it.

Vin had also risen to his feet, but he hadn’t bothered to sheath the knife. The naked steel made Josiah wonder if Vin no longer felt comfortable in his presence without some sort of weapon in hand. He desperately hoped that was not the case. The tracker might not be as good at throwing knives as Nathan, but he was more than competent when it came to wielding the blade he held. Sort of doubt he’d throw it. Figure he’d be more the sort to skin me alive. And I’m not sure I don’t deserve it for trying to kill him.

Josiah cleared his throat in preparation to apologize, but Ezra spoke before he got could get the words out. “Mr. Larabee, this is your home, you are naturally welcome to make yourself more comfortable.” It was a polite invitation to dismount. Green eyes swept over the others. “It would be impudent of me to extend a similar invitation to the rest of you, but,” a dimpled grin appeared with a glint of gold flashing in the sun, “I do not think Chris would object to y’all doing likewise as I believe he considers you to be welcomed guests.” 

Ezra’s gaze returned to Josiah. “Mr. Sanchez, I think we have things to discuss.” He cocked his head slightly to study the others again. “I am aware that the rest of you may wish to participate in that discussion, but Vin and I would prefer not to have an audience.” A small frown appeared. “I believe we’ve aired enough laundry of late.”

Josiah knew this meeting was going to be on their terms or it wouldn’t happen at all. Chris clearly knew it as well. The gunslinger looked toward Vin and received a small nod. He pursed his lips slightly, obviously not happy, but nodded once in return. “If that’s how you want it.”

Ezra tipped his head. “Thank you.”

Chris dismounted. Buck, Nathan and JD followed suit. Josiah hesitated before reluctantly following suit. Ezra made an elegant gesture with one hand. “Please, Mr. Sanchez. Perhaps we could walk as we talked.”

“Don’t go far.” Chris ordered, eyes narrowing as the moved from Ezra to Josiah. The former preacher felt himself flush, knowing the admonition to stay close was so Chris and the others were nearby to help if need be.

The gambler raised an eyebrow, but didn’t comment. He turned and gestured toward a small stand of trees that shaded the far side of the corral. It wasn’t far, but would provide them with some privacy and they would still be within sight of the house.

“Shall we?” Ezra and Vin walked in step as they headed away from the others. Josiah had no choice but to follow. He noticed that both men were careful to stay at least arms length away from him. He expected them to wait until well out of earshot before speaking but Ezra asked him a question almost immediately.

“You are here to apologize, yes?”

“Yes.” Josiah answered firmly. He didn’t want them to doubt that. “What happened the other day…that should never have happened.”

“Agreed.”

They reached the other side of the corral when Ezra spoke again. His voice was soft, conversational and relayed nothing but idle curiosity. “Which one spoke to you?”

The big man sighed. Pretty sure he’s more than just curious. “They all had something to say.”

“Indeed.” Ezra didn’t sound surprised. “And which one proved to be the most persuasive in getting you here?”

“JD. He talked to me yesterday morning. ‘Fore the others could say much.”

The gambler held out his hand toward Vin, palm up. Vin sighed and withdrew a coin from his pocket. He placed it in Ezra’s palm. Josiah stared, incredulous.

“You bet on that?” He couldn’t decide if he was appalled, insulted or both.

“It was a friendly wager, Mr. Sanchez.” Ezra calmly pocketed the coin before pinning him with a disdainful glare. “You should be grateful that I won. Had Vin been the winner, it would have been Chris who spoke to you. In that event, I seriously doubt we’d be having this conversation now.”

It would be hard to argue with that statement since Josiah wasn’t entirely convinced Chris still wasn’t itching to shoot him and be done with it. He frowned. “How did you know it would be JD?”

“I didn’t.” Ezra shrugged on shoulder. “I had hoped it would be him.”

“Why?”

“Because of all of our little troupe he was the least likely to resort to violence.” Josiah felt himself warm thinking Ezra might have been concerned for his safety. That feeling dissipated with Ezra’s next statement. “And if anyone is to do you harm, I would prefer that privilege to be reserved for me.”

Josiah flinched. He recognized the hard, unforgiving tone. It was the same one Ezra had used in the livery. JD was right about me having to grovel. Just hope its enough.

Clear green eyes met his. “Relax, Mr. Sanchez. I want to know why more than I want retribution.”

While not really a question, it was not a request either. The gambler made it perfectly clear that he wanted one or the other and it was up to the big man to choose which one he was prepared to offer. Josiah glanced toward Vin, trying to gauge for what the tracker was thinking. Ice white blue eyes met his unflinching.

“I don’t much care why.” Vin’s eyes narrowed. “All that really matters is that don’t happen again and you can keep yer mouth shut.” There was no mistaking the chastisement and implied threat. Josiah almost bristled feeling indignation, but the way Vin still gripped the bone handle of his knife, and the feral look in his eyes, had the older man thinking twice.

The sharpshooter nodded and then turned his head to spit. “But Ez wants answers, so you better pony up Preacher.” Vin’s use of that title still carried a derogatory sting. “You being sorry ain’t worth a shit if you can’t.”

Josiah swallowed hard. He had expected them to be angry, but he was honestly not prepared for this degree. Somewhere in the back of his mind he had pictured explaining things to them much the way he had to JD, and that all would be forgiven. That they would understand, see his side of things and let it go. He envisioned them going home and having things return to normal.

Home. You made them think they had to leave the one place either of them has likely felt comfortable in a long time. Nathan told me Ezra ready to simply ride away with no more than the clothes on his back. Vin with nothing more than a quiet goodbye. And you wonder why they are still pissed with you? Why they are so determined to know the reasons for what you did? Josiah, you are a fool. And you have much to answer for.

He took a deep breath and turned to face both men squarely. Ezra waited, hands hanging loosely at his side, face impassive and unreadable. Vin leaned against one of the corral posts, has posture relaxed and easy, but ready. He still hadn’t sheathed the knife. Josiah tried not to see significance in that.

He started out by explaining what he thought when he saw them together. He stuttered, fighting to get out how much Ezra reminded him of Aaron, of the fate of his son, and how harmless his desire to recapture that connection had seemed. At least until he made such a monumental mistake.

Ezra halted his slow but steady process by raising his hand. His expression was still unreadable, but Josiah didn’t think he looked quite as distant, as remote has he had when he’d started speaking. The gambler asked softly, “How old was Aaron when he…was murdered?”

Josiah bit his lip. He’d started this so he didn’t feel he could refuse. He knew nothing less than full disclosure would fix the mess he made, if it could still be fixed. So even though it pained him, he doggedly fought to reply. Taking a deep breath he answered. “Aaron was sixteen.”

The cardsharp nodded slowly. “I am…flattered, very flattered, that you should see similarities between myself and someone you held so near and dear.” A compassionate expression graced his features briefly before green eyes narrowed studying Josiah intently. “But you are cognizant of the fact that I am not and never will be a substitute for the child you lost?”

“I know.” Josiah stated earnestly. He wanted Ezra to believe him. He also wanted to move, pace and wave his hands in the air, anything to release some tension. He knew the others were watching from the porch and he wasn’t sure how well sudden, agitated movements on his part by them, or the two in front of him, would be received so he forced himself to remain still.

“Ezra…I know you aren’t Aaron.” God but I know that. No matter what wild fantasy I might have harbored, I do know that. “It was just that I was thinking of him. I was thinking about how you seem so much alike in many ways…and for a moment I forgot that you aren’t a child in need of a father, in need of protection.”

“Seems ta me you and Ez talked about this son thing before.” Vin snorted. Josiah winced clearly, remembering the lengths Ezra had gone to, to stop him from referring to him by the appellation ‘son’. “You sure you ain’t gonna suffer this delusion again?”

“Very sure.” Josiah’s jaw tightened. “It won’t happen again.”

When the tracker would have said something more, Ezra laid a hand on his arm. Blue eyes met green and Josiah felt like an entire conversation took place without a single word being uttered. Vin’s jaw tightened and Ezra shook his head. When Ezra spoke his voice was soft. “There is more and I want to hear the rest. Castigating him about this is unwarranted and will prevent that.”

To his amazement, rather than argue Vin tipped his head in a gesture of acquiescence. Sort of expected him to fight Ezra on that, to take me to task for making the same mistake not once, but twice where Ezra is concerned. Vin seems a mite more interested in retribution than explanations. Not that I can blame him. Just didn’t expect them to be able to agree that quickly with so little being said. They are just seem too different for them to see things the same way.

Josiah knew his face had to have shown his surprise when Ezra arched an eyebrow sardonically. “We are capable of reaching agreement without coming to fisticuffs, or childish displays of temper. We can and often do agree on what is important.” Josiah flushed slightly feeling the full effect of that gentle reprimand, and wondering not for the first time how it was Ezra could read people so easily.

Ezra made a gesture with one hand as though he were erasing something written on a blackboard. “Back to the matter at hand.”  

The gambler regarded Josiah for a moment. “You may have initially been mistaken by a father’s fervent wish to be there for his son. A laudable position, one that I don’t doubt, but nor do I claim to fully understand. And while that error may have been initial justification for your actions, the rest of your brutal physical and verbal assault went far beyond such.”

The former preacher licked his lips, and nodded. There was no point in denying it. Ezra will know I’m lying. And if he didn’t I’m fairly certain Vin would. That boy has an uncanny ability to spot a lie. Maybe because he tells so few.

Realizing his thoughts got him nowhere and only made the other two impatient, Josiah took a deep breath. His next revelation was going to be a bit tricky. He wasn’t sure how they would take it, but he knew staying quiet was not an option.

He offered up a silent prayer as he explained how he’d been envious of the closeness Vin had with Ezra. The tracker had managed to establish the sort of rapport Josiah wanted. They had the sort of camaraderie that allowed them to share secrets and laughter; made it obvious that in spite of their differences they were good friends and more than just fellow peacekeepers. He was quick to state that he didn’t object to their friendship, saw nothing wrong with it. He was pleased Ezra had that sort of closeness with someone even though it wasn’t him. But when he thought Vin was throwing away something he’d give his right arm to have, a priceless treasure lost to indulge in a moment of carnal passion, it just added fuel to an already raging fire.

Vin regarded him steadily. “You really thought I’d take advantage of Ezra bein’ my friend? Betray his trust like that?” The hurt and disappointment in those questions was easy to read. 

Josiah sighed. The diminished feeling Buck had engendered hitting him again. He realized anew just how insulting what he’d said had to be to a man like Vin. A man who considered himself to be honorable, who respected the rights of others, actively defended and cared for those he considered friends.

“I wasn’t thinking clearly.” Josiah mumbled.

“Don’t sound like you were thinking at all.” Vin rolled his eyes. “I know I’m just some savage heathen that can’t control himself, but shit…Josiah, I’ve never given you cause ta think I’d force myself on someone. That’d I hurt Ezra.”

Josiah winced when his own words were thrown back at him. He wondered if that moment of stupidity was going to haunt him for the rest of his life. Lord but I hope not.

Ezra pursed his lips slight, frown lines appearing on his forehead. “Did you really think me incapable of reading other’s motives? That I would be taken in so easily? So bloody helpless?” There was an uncertainty to those question, as if Ezra was trying to gauge if he had perhaps failed in some way and caused Josiah to misjudge him so badly.

Josiah shook his head, and held up a hand. He looked at Vin first. “Vin, I know you wouldn’t hurt Ezra.  I know that. Even if you weren’t,” he cleared his throat, “a couple, I know you wouldn’t hurt a friend. You’re not the sort of man to force himself on another. You wouldn’t take something not freely given.”

He shifted his gaze to Ezra. “Ezra, I know you can read people. Probably better at than any of us.” He felt himself flush again, but forced himself to maintain eye contact. “And I realize you are fully capable of defending yourself.” His expression turned rueful. “You’ve made that point…more than once.” Twice now he’s pointed a gun at me…not sure I’ll survive a third time. Have to make damn sure there isn’t a next time.

Josiah shifted his weight from one foot to the other. “I just,” he held both hands out, palms up, “I was just reacting, not thinking. There was so much going on that I didn’t really work out why I did what I did until I spent most of the night thinking about it.” He raised a hand to wearily rub at his eyes. “I’m not even certain how much of what happened had to do with you…and how much was about me.”

Vin and Ezra exchanged another look. Josiah waited, unsure if he should say more, or quiet while he was ahead. After a moment Ezra spoke. “You’ve explained your physical actions and I think we both understand.”

Josiah didn’t know what to make of that neutral statement. He couldn’t tell if Ezra and Vin accepted his explanation, finding the detail sufficient to warrant forgiveness or not. So he waited for more. It wasn’t long in coming.

“But you have yet to address the verbal.” The tone clearly indicated that Ezra wanted more information, and didn’t believe Josiah had made a full disclosure. When he spoke again Ezra’s tone was gentle, but insistent. “Words are like weapons Mr. Sanchez and are capable of inflicting wounds. While you may not have been thinking clearly, there is no denying your words were obviously intended to insult and castigate.”

Josiah bit his lip. Courtesy of his father, Josiah knew firsthand just how much damage words could do. He belatedly realized that Vin and Ezra were probably more upset over his characterization of them as users and helpless respectively, his declaration of them as an abomination than they were at his attempt to strangle the tracker.  

“You know about my sister, Hannah.” Vin and Ezra both nodded. If either man was surprised by his non sequitur they didn’t show it. Josiah continued speaking. “Our father had a part to play in her being where she is. And in some ways, so did I.”

He tried to explain what it was like growing up with a preacher for a father, one who breathed fire and brimstone at every opportunity, who spewed hatred and intolerance like it was a divine mission. Josiah wanted them to understand how hard he worked to not be like that. How much he wanted not to have such a limited a focus, to be a better man than his father. To the end, he’d left home, wanting to leave behind the narrow-minded view of his father, and unwittingly abandoning his sister at the same time.

“Until recently, I didn’t realize how much of my life has been geared toward proving I’m not like him. And then…” Josiah snorted in self-derision. “Then I find myself spouting the same sort of brutal, unforgiving rhetoric he would have. The same insults he would have used. I even quoted the same passage from the Bible.” The big man shook his head, eyes on the ground, unable to meet the pair in front of him. “He loved the Book of Leviticus.”

“Josiah?”

He tried not to start when Ezra used his first name and not his last. “Yes?”

“Do you honestly believe Vin and I are an abomination?”

“No.” Josiah stated clearly, making eye contact and holding it. “No.” He repeated it, wanting there to be no misunderstanding. “I never should have said that and I didn’t mean it. I am sorry. So very sorry. ”

Ezra closed his eyes and let his breath out slowly. Josiah realized that the younger man had not until just that moment honestly believed Josiah meant to apologize. He got a similar feeling from Vin. It went a long way to explaining the tracker’s hostility and Ezra’s cold reserve.

Ezra took a deep breath and opened his eyes. “Much of this could have been avoided.” His lips curled in a sad smile. “A statement, I suspect is true of many a misunderstanding.”

Misunderstanding? Josiah didn’t honestly think that word was entirely accurate, thinking something a bit stronger was likely to be more apt, but he was willing to go with it. Especially since that description categorized what happened between them as something so simple, something so easy to rectify. He hoped Ezra’s use of ‘misunderstanding’ would be prophetic.

“We had intended to tell you about our relationship, but…” the gambler made a helpless gesture with his hands. “It would seem that we did not find the right words soon enough.”

Josiah frowned slightly. It bothered him that they felt the need to ‘find the right words’.  “Did you think I would not accept you?” He winced belatedly realizing his reaction two days ago might well have served as an answer to that question.

Vin shrugged. He answered the question, either not noticing or ignoring Josiah’s wince. “Didn’t know how you’d react.”

The tracker finally moved to sheath the knife he’d been holding. “Ain’t had much luck predictin’ which way people will jump. Sort o’ gave up trying to figure it out ‘fore hand.”

“JD said the others asked you.”

Ezra tipped his head acknowledging the question hidden within that statement. “It seemed prudent to let others approach us rather than for us to test the depth of the water with both feet, if you will.”

Ezra shrugged. Josiah couldn’t help thinking that the movement was somehow too graceful and precise to be something so mundane. “Not being able to predict the outcome made us understandably hesitant to take such a risk.”

Josiah’s frown deepened. “But you were thinking of telling me?”

Another shrug. “As the last of our group, the only one not aware that Vin and I are a couple, it was suggested that perhaps we should not wait for you to ask, but rather to take the initiative.”

Josiah pursed his lips, startled by that revelation. None of the others had mentioned that. “Who--“

“JD.” Vin answered. “He thought you might feel like we left ya out on purpose.”

Josiah nodded. He had felt left out when he learned that others knew before he did. He thought that Vin and Ezra had chosen to confide in them rather than him perhaps because they didn’t trust him, didn’t hold him in the same regard as the others and that thought hurt. But in talking with JD and Nathan he realized it wasn’t deliberate on their part. He was ashamed by how unobservant he’d been. That he’d managed to overlook the obvious for so long. That is never occurred to him to simply extend that common courtesy of asking what he wanted to know. Maybe it wasn’t too late to do so.

“So…how long have you been a couple?”

“Around six months.”

Josiah blinked at Vin’s characteristically short answer. It said so much without saying much at all. They’ve been together THAT long. I never thought…didn’t expect...figured it was only a little while. He glanced toward Ezra. The gambler raised an eyebrow at his look but didn’t comment.

Vin smirked, his eyes holding a dark humor. “Surprised?”

It never occurred to him to lie. “Yes.” The big man shook his head. “I hadn’t realized I’d been so blind.”

“You would not be the first man guilty of seeing only what he wished to see.” Ezra stated. “I dare say my chosen profession depends on the ability of others to delude themselves.”

“Only the others,” Josiah gestured to where the rest of the peacekeepers sat or stood on the porch watching them, “and Nettie know?”

“So far only Mrs. Welles and our compatriots have seen fit to ask.” Ezra made a vague, meaningless gesture with one hand. “But that is not to say that others may not have observed some unintended revealing gesture or statement on our part that disclosed the nature of our relationship. It merely means that we can only know for certain about those who have come forward to seek confirmation.”

Josiah gaped at him. “You can’t be…Don’t you realize how dangerous it could be for you if the town knew!!?” He cast a wary glance toward the porch realizing his raised voice might bring down the wrath of the others. He could see them shifting restlessly, feel their intense gazes, but so far they hadn’t moved any closer. He turned his attention back to Ezra and Vin.

“Certainly we are aware of the danger.” Ezra’s tone was mild, relaxed.

Both the younger men seemed entirely to calm about this for Josiah’s liking. He growled. “You can’t count on them to help you, to stand by you, to defend you—“

Ezra held up a hand. “Mr. Sanchez, in the year and a half I have lived in Four Corners the demographics have changed little. The same people reside here who permitted Stephen Travis to be gunned down in the street. They allowed the same fate to befall Owen Potter. Their inaction left two widows and three children without fathers.  They blithely watched as their chosen sheriff was summarily executed. They did nothing when the honorable Judge Travis was wounded. And they stood idly by and let those cowboys try to hang Nathan.”

Ezra shook his head. “My fondness for this community and the people who reside in it has not made me blind to their shortcomings. To be honest, I never expected much from them. And I still don’t.”

Josiah felt his eyebrows climb, but before he had the chance to respond, Vin was speaking, picking up where Ezra had left off. “Thing is, Josiah, none of us ever really counted on the town folk for much of anythin’.” Vin bit his lower lip, his expression something Josiah could only describe as apologetic honesty.

“Only people we could ever trust to watch our back is each other.” The tracker made small movement with his hand to let Josiah know that ‘each other’ encompassed all the peacekeepers. “It’s us all workin’ together that’s kept us alive this long. Made it so we could beat the odds when by all rights we ought ta be pushin’ up daisies.”

Josiah suddenly realized why they were so ready to leave. It hadn’t been just his violet reaction, but also what his hostility meant in terms of the group’s cohesion. The risk it represented to the others if they did not have that unified front was very real. Something they all had ample opportunity to be conscious of. He grimaced, realizing that he’d lost sight of that.

Not knowing how the townspeople might react to an obvious schism among them was a wild card that Josiah knew Ezra and Vin had no desire to bet on.  Given what Ezra had said just a moment ago, Josiah couldn’t see himself doing it either. Funny that I never really thought about it before now. Just took it for granted that since we were the wolves hired to protect the flock there was never any reason to rely on the town. But then we had to be able to rely on each other for that to work.

He hung his head, no longer able to look at the younger men. Lord, what do I say? I didn’t just betray them…but the others…even myself. Josiah took a deep breath and tried to find the right words. He swallowed hard and realized the only words that came to mind were decidedly inadequate. Still, with nothing else to say, he offered them, “I am sorry.”

He was startled when he felt a hand touch his shoulder. Josiah hadn’t seen or heard Ezra move. The cardsharp smiled softly.

“You have already apologized.” Ezra cocked his head to one side. “Although, I think you are only beginning to understand the true extent of your trespass.”

“How do I fix it?” Josiah asked, trying hard not to sound as plaintive as he felt.

“Your apology was well meant and has been accepted.” Green eyes met his blue. “Now you have to live up to it.” Another graceful shrug answered his confused expression. “Let your actions prove your words. You say you do not believe us to be an abomination, then prove it and act as our friend. You say you are aware of the danger posed by those who might be less tolerant, then mind your tongue and respect our need for appearances of propriety. You understand the inherent danger in there being a permanent rift among us, so do your best not to create one and we will do likewise.”

Josiah nodded. He held himself still when Ezra patted his arm and walked away heading for the porch and the others. Vin gave him a hard look, blue eyes measuring him from head to toe.

“You made a mistake. We all got a chance to make one.” Vin’s voice was whisper soft, but carried easily. “Don’t make another.”

Again there was the threat of retribution, but Josiah was not offended. He understood the reason for it. Finally began to appreciate the full measure of his error. JD was right. He wouldn’t get another second chance and he honestly didn’t think he’d deserve one if he messed up this badly again. And even though it was not stated openly, he had no doubt that he’d be watched critically for some time. Not by just Vin, but Chris and Buck as well. Nathan and JD might be less inclined to critique is every move, but Josiah wasn’t convinced of that.

Vin moved to follow Ezra. Josiah was pained to note that the tracker continued to keep distance between them. At least Ezra had gotten within arms length. Apparently Vin was not yet ready to forgive the physical assault he experienced at Josiah’s hands. The big man had just been able to make out the deep bruises on Vin’s neck partially hidden by his bandana. He suspected that Vin was likely to persist in being standoffish long after those marks faded and he really couldn’t blame him.

Josiah sighed and squared his shoulders. Ezra said to prove myself; let my actions speak louder than my words. Okay. I can do that. And if I’m going to do it then I guess I better get started.

He took a deep breath. Josiah headed toward the house, ready to face the others. Despite the fact that Vin and Ezra had left him separately they still managed to arrive together. They stood shoulder to shoulder, relaxed and easy as they faced the others. Josiah was close enough to hear Chris ask Ezra if they’d gotten things straightened out.

Ezra tipped his head. “I believe we have reached a satisfactory conclusion.”

JD frowned, dark eyes moving from Ezra to Vin. He glanced to Josiah and back to them. “That mean you are staying?”

“Yes, JD, that means we are staying.”

The young sheriff broke into a wide grin. Buck did too. “Hot damn!” The ladies man slapped his thigh as he straightened from where he’d been leaning against one of the pillars. “That’s good to hear.”

Ezra smiled. “Indeed.”

“You two going to head back now?” Nathan asked quietly from where he still sat in the rocking chair.

“Yep.” Vin answered.

Chris pointed to Buck with his chin. “Buck you got patrol. Best get to it.” He looked toward Ezra. “You’ve got your usual shift tonight.” His glance flickered toward the sky. “If you leave now, pretty sure you can make it back in time to catch a nap in that feather bed of yours.” A brief spark of humor glowed in his eyes. “I know how poorly you sleep when you have to tuck in on the ground.”

Ezra’s lips curled in a small smile, green eyes meeting the gunslinger’s dark blue-gray counterparts. Something passed between them, and Josiah suspected it was genuine amusement from Ezra and comfortable acceptance or understanding from Chris. He fervently prayed that some day he and Ezra would share similar looks. It will just take some time and effort. And Lord knows I’m no stranger to that.

Vin nudged Ezra with his shoulder. He pointed toward their horses with his chin. The two had their cinches tightened and mounted with their usual ease and grace. Josiah wasn’t really surprised by how eager the younger men were to get back to town. What did strike him was how normal the conversation seemed. It was almost surreal given the past few days. He still felt a bit uneasy, uncertain, but nothing like how he’d felt on the ride out.

Buck had already mounted Lady, ready to head out on patrol. The tall cowboy tipped his hat to Vin and Ezra. “You two save me a place at the table. We’ll have us a drink when I get back.”

“Certainly.” Ezra saluted with two fingers, and Vin did likewise. Ezra’s eyes swept the others, encompassing Josiah as well. “Gentlemen, we bid you adieu.”

“We’ll see ya back in town boys.” Vin seconded with a tip of his head.

Josiah felt his spirit lift immeasurably to be included in those casual goodbyes. Ezra touched his heels to Chaucer and Vin set Peso in motion, both taking off at a trot headed for town. Josiah felt Chris’ eyes on him and turned to face him.

“You got JD’s shift in town this afternoon.”

Josiah stared for a moment, surprised. He had expected another warning, or chastise of some sort. Should have known better. Chris asked Ezra if it was settled, and Ezra said yes. Chris would take his word for it. And he’s already spoken his piece on the issue. He’s not the sort to waste words by repeating himself.

The big man nodded, accepting the assignment. The young sheriff had certainly done more than his share lately. And Josiah welcomed the chance to get back on an even footing again.

“Let’s get back to town. Left it unattended long enough.” Chris headed for his horse and the others followed suite.

Josiah found himself once more riding between JD and Nathan, with Chris slightly ahead, but still with them. The pace Chris set was sedate. Although nothing was said they all knew that he was deliberately giving Vin and Ezra a chance to get back to town well ahead of them.  The big man realized it was the least they could do for the couple. He nodded to himself. Chris might have been joking, but he was right about Ezra not sleeping well when outside. Don’t imagine he will object to a chance to get back to his feather bed. Damn glad we got this more or less settled so he’s got that to go back to. It took him a moment but Josiah smiled when he realized that Vin likely enjoyed Ezra’s bed as much as the gambler did.

*******

Vin relaxed against the door of Ezra’s room after making sure he’d locked it. He took a deep breath and watched as his lover moved about the room. It was almost a ritual, one that Vin found decidedly pleasant to observe, one he’d missed seeing for the past few days.

Ezra threw his hat with a deft flick of the wrist, his aim true and the hat settled easily on the dresser. He shrugged out of his jacket with careless grace before hanging it neatly in the closet. He removed his pocket watch and cuff links, laying them on the dresser in a small crystal bowl. Vin assumed he kept the bowl for just that reason, but he’d never asked. Occasionally he did wonder how something so fragile and delicate looking managed to end up still in one piece in a dusty backwater saloon owned by the only person in town likely to appreciate its beauty.

The vest was also removed and hung next to the jacket. An elegant hand moved to smooth both articles, ensuring they hung smartly, without wrinkles. The door to the closet was pushed shut with a seemingly absentminded shove, but still with no more force than necessary to close it gently. Vin smiled to himself quietly amused that Ezra always managed gauge the force correctly, never slamming the door.

Ezra was rolling up his sleeves when he caught sight of Vin’s smile. He cocked an eyebrow.  Vin shrugged. “Jus’ glad to be home.” It was true, just not the whole truth. The slant eyed look Ezra graced him with let him know his lover knew it, but wasn’t going to call him on it.

Vin tossed his hat to join Ezra’s and shrugged out of his coat, draping it on the rocker. He toed out of his boots, knowing his lover would object to him lying on the bed with his boots on. Funny him being all proper about that, but he don’t bat an eye about having a gun under his pillow. Course, the gun could save yer life. Sort of excuses getting gun oil on the sheets.

Ezra slipped out of his boots, setting them beside Vin’s at the foot of the bed. He stretched in one long sensuous movement that reminded Vin of how a cat would do the same thing right before it curled up to nap in the sun. Chris tellin’ Ez to take a nap wasn’t a half bad idea. Know he didn’t sleep so good while we were gone…and it weren’t just because we was tucking in on the ground either.

The gambler might have near perfect control over the emotions he displayed at any given moment, but that didn’t mean strong emotions didn’t affect him. Vin knew Ezra hadn’t slept well. Oh he didn’t toss an’ turn, didn’t seem tense or edgy, least not the way other people might. But that ain’t the same as resting easy. Vin suspected his lover’s mind was busy analyzing outcomes and options, weighing the choices against each other. Like a dog chasin’ his tail.

Vin knew it wouldn’t really matter that Ezra was tired, or that all joking aside, Chris had more or less ordered him to take a nap, Ezra would still need some enticement to actually lay down. And even though things with Josiah had worked out to at least put them on more solid ground, it would take some effort on his part to help his lover relax, to calm those swirling thoughts enough to sleep. No time like the present.

He sat down on the bed, and patted the spot next to him. “C’mon, Ez. Lay down with me.”

Ezra smiled warmly, green eyes sparkling. “Now that is an invitation I’m not likely to refuse.”

Vin returned the smile. “I know.”

The tracker moved over and leaned back, making room for Ezra to join him. He pulled the aged quilt up from the foot of the bed. It wasn’t cold enough to warrant a blanket, but Vin knew the gambler slept better if covered slightly. And the quilt wasn’t really that heavy. Vin knew Ezra kept it more for the soft feel and security it provided than for warmth. Ezra sighed softly as he lay down on his side, head pillowed on Vin’s shoulder. Vin spread the quilt to cover them both before he shifted enough to rest his cheek on the top of Ezra’s head.

“We’ll need to restock.” Ezra murmured.

Vin tensed involuntarily at that simple statement. They hadn’t talked on the way back to town, but Vin thought that things with Josiah had gone well. Not perfect but certainly workable, definitely something they could live with. Certainly not reason for them to leave again. Maybe Ezra saw or heard something he’d missed.

“You think we’ll need it?” Vin asked quietly, surprised by the sadness he could hear in his own voice.

“Not today. Not tomorrow. Maybe not ever again.” Ezra patted his chest in a soothing movement. “But it pays to be prepared. And for that reason, I always think we may need it.”

Vin captured Ezra’s hand with his own, interlacing their fingers. I know. Sad part is I usually think the same thing. Guess we both been on the run so long it’s hard not to feel the need to have a safe place to run to. Was why we had it to start with.

He raised Ezra’s hand to place a kiss on his knuckles. “Okay. I’ll take care of it.” Vin nodded to himself, lightly rubbing his cheek against Ezra’s soft curls as he planned a route on his patrol that would take him by their spot. It wouldn’t take long to replace what they’d used.

“You think things went okay with Josiah, right?” Vin asked after a few minutes. It wasn’t a question he really wanted to ask, but after his momentary flash of anxiety it seemed like a good idea to do so.

“Yes.” Ezra sighed and Vin wrapped his arm more securely about the gambler, encouraging him to snuggle in closer. “He told us more and was far more willing to divulge the information than I expected. I am satisfied with how things turned out.”

Vin placed a kiss in Ezra’s hair, their joined hands resting on his chest, while his free hand lightly rubbed slowly up and down the gambler’s spine. “Good. So am I.”

If Ezra was okay with it, then he was okay with it. Didn’t mean he wouldn’t be keeping an eye on Josiah just to be sure things continued to go smoothly. He didn’t really think that they would be able to simply pick up where they left off. It would take awhile for the group to find their balance again.

Ezra spoke softly. “It will probably take some time to get back to what constitutes normal for us.”

Vin chuckled, amused by his lover’s casual understatement and how well his statement echoed Vin’s thoughts. “I ‘spect so.”

“We will get there.” Ezra stated, voice barely above a whisper, but there was no doubt or uncertainty in his voice. “It may take some time, but we will get there.”

“We will.” Vin agreed. Provided Josiah keeps his head screwed on straight and remembers ta think for he acts. Long as no one in town finds out and raises a stink. But then that ain’t new…so I guess that’s just part o’ normal for us.

Ezra sighed again. Vin had continued to stroke the smaller man’s spine and he could feel him relax, his body easing into that heavy, boneless state that sleep brings. Even though Ezra had slept while in their secret hideaway Vin knew he’d never completely relaxed. There had been a faint, lingering tension that suggested he’d be awake in a heartbeat and ready for action. Vin reveled in the tangible display of trust Ezra’s complete relaxation signified. He’d missed it.

Vin breathed deeply, holding it for a moment and then letting it out. He allowed himself to sink further into the feather bed. More of Ezra’s weight came to rest against him, warm and solid at his side.

The others would be back in town soon. Not that they needed to worry about that right now. No one would be expecting them to make an appearance until about sundown.

It was unlikely anyone in town even noticed that he and Ezra hadn’t been around for the last two days. Well, except for the children Ezra taught. Pretty sure Buck or JD would have thought to say something to the kids. Have to remember to ask them what they told ‘em. 

He made a mental note to do so when they meet up for a drink and had dinner just like they normally did. No one in town would be any the wiser to the dissension that had come between them. Vin didn’t think they needed to know. There was more than one disagreement among them that the town was not privy to.  It was better to maintain the illusion of a united front at all times.

Ain’t any of their damn business anyway. Don’t matter what the problem is. Last thing we’d need is ‘help’ from them. Never had any when it might have been useful…like with Eli Joe, or the Nichols brothers, or when Chris was in that prison,…no reason for them to get involved when it would jus’ make things worse. Think we all know that, even if we never really talked about it.

Vin heard Ezra’s breathing take on a deep, steady rhythm. It was a mystery to him that the cardsharp didn’t snore. He idly wondered how Buck’s ladies could stand sleeping with him when the man snored loud enough to wake the dead.

The tracker closed his eyes, and relaxed. He wouldn’t sleep deeply, just catnap. The rest would come in handy when he sat in the saloon keeping an eye on Ezra while he played poker before his shift would start at midnight.

*******

Josiah found himself thinking about the past two weeks as he worked to repair the church steps. He sometimes found thinking easier if his hands were busy. Somehow it just helped to organize his thoughts while his body was otherwise occupied.

The steps had dry rot in places and had warped in others, leaving them rickety and decidedly uneven. He had replaced much of the earlier wooden base and risers already knowing they were unsalvageable. As he worked to sand smooth what would be new footers, Josiah considered how much change could be wrought in so little time.

The bruises were gone from Vin’s neck, but the tracker still seemed inclined to keep some distance between them. He never picked the chair next to Josiah when they sat down to meals or had drinks at the saloon. But then that might not be entirely Vin’s doing.

The others seemed to bracket Josiah at such times, usually with Chris on one side and Buck on the other. The former preacher suspected it was an unconscious decision on their part, a means of protecting the couple. He chose not to feel offended by that, although it hurt to know they obviously thought that he might still pose a threat. Josiah was honest enough with himself to realize that had it been anyone else who’d attacked Vin and Ezra, they would likely have faced down more than Chris and Buck’s quiet censure.

Ezra made it easy for him to relax, despite such treatment. Amused green eyes often met his and Ezra would wink when the others couldn’t see it. He made sure Josiah was included in the conversation, that the big man was never subjected to a verbal slight while they were together.  He never dealt him out of a game unless Josiah requested it. He made sure to include him when a round of drinks was purchased. He didn’t treat him with any less courtesy than he ever had.

And that was also part of the problem in some ways. If anything, Ezra treated him with all the courtesy due a stranger, not a friend. The gambler was not quite as reserved as when they first met, but he was not nearly as friendly as he had been before their altercation. And of their group, Josiah was the only one Ezra continued to refer to by surname.

He still called Nathan Mr. Jackson on occasion, but that was usually when people other than the seven were present. When it was just the seven he had no difficulty being informal and using first names. Josiah expressed his disappointment about Ezra’s continued use of his surname to Nathan the other day.

The healer had snorted and shook his head. “Did you ask him to call you by your first name, Josiah?”

“No.”

“Well there you go.” Nathan had said like it explained everything. And maybe it did.

Josiah nodded to himself, running one hand over the board he’d been working on. He was going to have to say something if he wanted Ezra to use his first name. Maybe if he could get a minute alone with the younger man.

That hadn’t been an option lately either. Not that Ezra seemed to be actively avoiding him. Not really. More like he was just never in the same place as Josiah. Thinking it over, Josiah realized that even before he’d lost his mind and behaved stupidly, he and Ezra rarely spent much time together alone. Not really. Not the way Ezra did with Buck, JD…and of course, Vin.

He frowned heavily. He didn’t like thinking that after a year and a half he hadn’t gotten to know the gambler. Not really. What he knew was only what he wanted to know. Josiah didn’t want to believe his interactions with the younger man had been mostly on his terms, not with a genuine focus for what Ezra might have thought or wanted. But there was no denying it.

It wasn’t that long ago he’d overstepped his bounds, repeatedly ignoring Ezra’s request not to be called son, not to be touched. He sighed heavily, realizing the lessons he’d thought he’d learned as a result of Ezra’s forceful reaction hadn’t apparently been the right ones. Or they hadn’t taken as well as they should have.

Josiah was forced to admit that didn’t honestly know that much about Ezra, at least not from him directly. Or Vin either. Something else he should rectify. Need to really start over. Make a new beginning. Actually become friends, not just me just assuming we are. Think the past two weeks we’ve gotten back to being nodding acquaintances. Just need to take the next step.

He pursed his lips. Josiah tried to think of when he might be able to catch the gambler for a moment and express his desire to have the younger man use his first name. Maybe pursue a chance to really get to know each other, continue to build on the new foundation they’d recently begun laying. A glance upward to check the sun confirmed the time. Ezra would be getting up about now. 

Josiah grunted as he straightened up. He rubbed at his lower back. I have got to stop spending so much time in that position.

He carefully laid his tools aside. The big man studied the steps and nodded in approval. Another day or so and access to the front of the church would once again be possible. People would be able to come and go safely. He chose to ignore the fact that very few people in town actually seemed to want or need the church. Josiah knew himself well enough to know that he worked on the building less for them than he did for himself. Whether they used it or saw a need for it didn’t really matter.

He took a deep breath and squared his shoulders. Josiah laughed at himself. You’d think I was facing down an armed outlaw intent on killing me, not just planning to walk down the street and talk with a man I consider my friend.

Josiah strolled down the street. Lately, he’d found himself looking at the townspeople with new eyes. He was evaluating them, contemplating just how reliable they were. Just what they might do if Vin and Ezra’s relationship became known. He was beginning to appreciate how hard that was to do. My own initial reaction is hardly what I’d have predicted of myself. And if I can’t predict my own behavior, how can I possibly anticipate another’s with any degree of certainty?

He shook his head. None of that mattered. Vin and Ezra were right when they said they only had each other to count on. If they stood firm, stood together that was all they needed. Seven men, one destiny Josiah had said once and he still believed that.

He spotted the gambler sitting on the saloon porch. Josiah tipped his head as he got closer. “Good morning, Ezra.”

“Good morning, Mr. Sanchez.” Ezra responded with a soft smile. The gambler loosely held a cup in his left hand. Josiah was surprised to see a teapot sitting on the nearby table. Would have thought he was drinking coffee. He never seems all that keen on drinking Nathan’s teas. Course, no one really likes Nathan’s medicinal stuff, even if it is good for ‘em, so that’s not really anything to go by.

“Mind if I join you?” Josiah gestured toward the empty chair that sat on the other side of the table.

“Not at all.” Ezra waved his right hand toward the seat. “Please make yourself comfortable.” He filled his cup as Josiah sat. Still holding the pot, Ezra spoke, “Pardon my appalling lack of manners. I should have inquired sooner. Would you care for a cup of tea, Mr. Sanchez?”

“Would rather you called me Josiah.” The big man said quietly.

“Excuse me?” Ezra raised an eyebrow, teapot still in the offing.

“I would rather you used my first name.”

Ezra cocked his head, green eyes narrowed slightly. He bowed slightly. “If that is what you prefer.”

“It is.” Josiah did his best not to let his jaw drop open in stunned surprise. He hadn’t expected it to be that easy. Although, reflecting on it, he wasn’t sure why he thought Ezra wouldn’t agree.

“Tea, Josiah?”

Unable to help himself the big man laughed. “I think I’d enjoy a cup.”

Ezra smiled, dimple appearing. He poured a cup and offered it to Josiah. The big man took the cup carefully. He watched as Ezra added milk to his, pouring it from a small creamer that sat on the same tray where the teapot resided. Josiah suddenly realized that the set matched. The teapot, the creamer and another bowl he was sure held sugar all fit easily on the small tray. Wonder where he got that?

Ezra offered the creamer to Josiah, but the big man shook his head. “Sugar?” The gambler offered the other small jar. Josiah refused that as well.

Ezra used a small spoon to stir his tea. He sat back in his chair and sipped his drink. Josiah took a sip of his own, and was surprised to find he liked it. Definitely better than the stuff Nathan usually offers.

“Where did you get the set?” Josiah asked nodding toward the tray, curiosity getting the better of him.

“Mrs. Potter had several for sale languishing in her store.”

“Never noticed.” Josiah admitted.

“If you do not care for tea, it is unlikely you would bother to make note of the equipment on hand to brew and enhance the beverage. One only sees what one needs to.”

Josiah nodded. And he realized that was true of more than just tea sets. He hadn’t looked for signs that Vin and Ezra were a couple and so he hadn’t seen it. He hadn’t really looked at the townspeople, really started weighing their character, until he felt the need to do so. If they aren’t given reason to, I doubt the town folk will notice any more than I did.

He bit his lower lip. “You think most people in town are just as likely to over look other things as they are tea sets?”

Ezra gave him a sly glance. The look alone let him know Ezra knew what he was referring to. “Undoubtly.” The gambler’s tone was dry. “They seem to harbor an infinite capacity to focus exclusively on their own well being and concerns, heedless of anything that does not affect them directly. I seriously doubt that will change any time soon.”

“Good.”

“Indeed.” Ezra tipped his head slightly, and continued to sip his tea.

Josiah toyed with his cup, turning it in his hands. He studied the brown liquid searching its depth for the right words. “You know…the past two weeks have been…very good.”

Ezra made a noncommittal sound of agreement. Green eyes regarded him steadily, waiting patiently, letting Josiah lead the way. The big man grimaced wishing the verbose gambler would just jump in and find the words he couldn’t seem to locate.

Frustrated with himself, Josiah took a large swallow of tea and nearly scalded his tongue. He glared at the cup, irrationally angry at it for harboring something he could hurt himself with. Ezra’s soft chuckle made him look up.

“Careful, Josiah, it is hot.”

“I know.” He growled.

Ezra raised an eyebrow. “Funny how hurting oneself usually does bring the obvious to the fore, does it not?”

Josiah sighed, his momentary flash of annoyance gone just as quickly as it came. “That it does.”

“I do understand, Josiah.” Ezra smiled softly. “What you were trying so hard to say just a moment ago, I do understand.”

The cardsharp’s gaze shifted to stare out over the street. “The past two weeks we have reached a new understanding. Embarked on a new course and have undertaken building something that might well outlast this town.”

“I hope so.” Josiah would like to believe that they could stay friends no matter where they were or what happened. He wanted that.

Green eyes met blue. “So do I.” Ezra raised his cup and Josiah lightly touched it with his.

The big man grinned, feeling like a huge weight had been lifted from his shoulders. His feeling of elation was tamped down slightly as he glanced up the street and spotted Vin riding in from patrol. Ezra might understand, but that didn’t mean Vin did. And it certainly didn’t guarantee that the tracker felt the same way.

Ezra looked up the street, following Josiah’s line of sight. The gambler smiled. If he hadn’t been looking for it Josiah never would have noticed the way Ezra’s eyes seemed to light up at the sight of his lover.

Vin brought Peso to a halt in front of them, arms resting casually on his saddle horn. “Ez.” He tipped his head to Josiah. “Josiah.”

“Hello, Vin.” Ezra greeted the tracker, his tone more welcoming than his simple greeting would have indicated.

Josiah dipped his head. “Vin.”

The tracker smirked seeing the teapot, sky blue eyes bright. “Ez get you drinking tea too?”

Josiah shrugged. “It’s not bad.”

“Nope. It’s not.” Vin agreed. “Still prefer coffee though.”

Ezra rolled his eyes. “Anything of note on your patrol?”

“Not a thing.” Vin shrugged. “Pretty quiet really.” The tracker raised two fingers to the brim of his hat. “I’ll see you both at lunch.”

It wasn’t a question, but Ezra answered him. “We’ll be present for our usual repast.”

Vin nodded and nudged Peso toward the livery. Josiah did his best not to gape after him. He was expecting more; some expression of concern, or suspicion, some communication verbal or visual between Vin and Ezra to confirm that the pleasant moment of camaraderie was exactly what it seemed to be.

Ezra chuckled and finished his tea. He stood and straightened his clothes as he usually did. Clear green eyes met his. “Rest assured, Josiah, Vin appreciates what we are building. He shares the same sentiment.”

The big man took a breath, and let it out slowly. “You’re sure?”

Ezra smiled. “I am.” The smile grew to a grin, gold pre-molar visible. “But if you’d care to ask him yourself, feel free to do so.”

Josiah laughed. “I couldn’t even ask you.”

“True.” Ezra chuckled. “But then there are times when words are not necessary.”

Josiah nodded, understanding how profound that was. He rose to his feet. He gestured toward the restaurant. “I believe we have an appointment to keep.”

“That we do.”

Together they walked down the boardwalk. Josiah was pleased to find they were in step without even trying. He couldn’t figure out why, but he found that fact heartening.

Reaching the restaurant he was not surprised to see Buck lounging against one of the pillars. The tall cowboy smoothed his mustache with forefinger and thumb. “You boys getting lunch?”

“It would seem so.” Ezra waved a hand toward the doorway. “Would you care to join us, Buck?”

“Don’t mind if I do.” Buck grinned and clapped former preacher on the shoulder. “You get those steps finished yet, Josiah?”

“Nearly, brother.”

“Maybe you should ask Chris ta lend a hand. Know he ain’t a half bad carpenter.” Buck waggled his eyebrows. “And he doesn’t have anything else ta do this afternoon.”

Ezra smirked. “Half dollar says he can’t finish the job without cussing at least once.”

“Blasphemy while working on the house of the Lord?” Josiah rubbed his chin, fighting a smile. “I shudder to think of it.”

Buck rolled his eyes as they headed into the restaurant. “No one is going to take a bet like that Ezra.”

“Like what?” JD asked. He was already sitting at their usual table.

“That Chris could help Josiah work on the church without cussin’.” Buck responded as he threw himself in to a chair.

JD grinned. “Does it really count as cussing if he’s doing it so much it sounds more like he’s speaking in tongues?”

“A good point.” Ezra conceded as he took his seat. Josiah couldn’t help but smile as the gambler took the seat next to him. “I would think one sufficiently intelligible curse would qualify.”

Buck snorted. “You can always understand the man when he’s pissed. No mistakin’ that.”

“Mistaking what?” Nathan asked as he sauntered in and sat next to JD.

“Chris being pissed.” JD answered.

“Someone didn’t know?” Nathan raised both eyebrows. “How the hell could someone not know?”

Josiah was quick to notice that their seating arrangement had taken shape naturally. The tension of the past two weeks seemed to have eased considerably. It was like they’d all been waiting for some signal from him to relax. It wouldn’t surprise him if they had all witnessed him talking to Ezra in front of the saloon. If I’d known that, I’d have talked to Ezra sooner. But then I wasn’t ready to talk to him until today.

“Know what?” Vin asked, catching the tail end of Nathan’s question as he walked in. The tracker slid into the chair next to Ezra with his usual boneless grace.

“That Chris is pissed.” JD again answered.

“Chris is pissed?” Vin frowned. “Didn’t seem that way when I jus’ talked ta him.”

Buck laughed. “No, Pard, no. Not now. When he helps Josiah with the church.”

Vin stared at Buck. “He’s helpin’ Josiah with the church? Since when?”

“Well see,” Buck started to explain, but was interrupted by Chris’ arrival. The dark clad gunslinger took his usual seat at the head of the table.

“Boys.” Chris greeted them as he sat down.

“Hear ya volunteered ta help Josiah fix up the church, Cowboy.” Vin grinned. “Right nice thing ta do.”

“What?” Chris stared at Vin. “You wanna say that again?”

As the explanation and argument began to grow, Ezra quietly shared a look with Josiah. This sort of conversation hadn’t occurred lately, and Josiah got the feeling that he wasn’t the only one who’d noticed the absence. Things are definitely back to ‘normal’.

“I’m vastly relieved, Josiah, that what we are building can be done with much less…input.” Ezra spoke just loud enough for the big man to hear.

Josiah smiled. He glanced around the table, pleased to see so much animation again, such easy banter, and lively interaction. He’d missed this. Lord but he had missed it.

“Wouldn’t be the same without it though.” He observed, keeping his voice pitched for Ezra alone.

Green eyes danced when they met his. “No. No it wouldn’t.”

“I like it.”

“As do I, Josiah. As do I.”

Josiah sat back and let the feeling of being connected again wash over him. He was decidedly grateful that he had been given this second chance. He sent a silent prayer of gratitude heavenward and a fervent request for the strength and wisdom so that he would be able to make the most of it.

*******The End*******