Club Scene (LITE)
Warning - Sex, violence, drug use.
Pairings - E/V C/B O/T male
Disclaimers - You guessed it. I don't own any of these except the evil Jack and his friend.
Thanks - To Cobalt and my anonymous Beta for their help and feedback. Thanks ladies for being my sounding board.
Vin couldn't believe it had only been two weeks since he�d been sent TDA to California for weapons training. He was enjoying the training part but he missed Ezra. Ezra had wanted to fly in for the weekends but he had been too busy with uncover work. This was the first time they had been apart for so long since they had become a couple. They had tried to talk every night on the phone but it wasn't the same as being with Ezra, holding him close and touching him.
Vin paced the hotel room. He was bored. Some of the other guys had invited him to go to a nearby club but he hadn�t been interested. But here he was on a Friday night with nothing to do. He decided to just go out and walk around, see what caught his eye.
He left the hotel and headed towards the old part of the downtown area. He�d heard there were some clubs that had live music and pool. He could hear country music coming from a building a few doors down. He smiled as he entered; the bar was decorated like a western saloon. He sat at the bar and ordered a beer. A band played at the stage but no one was on the small dance floor. Vin looked around the bar and saw pool tables in the back. A few pool tables were occupied so he moved to the end of the bar so he could watch. He was on his second beer when a man approached him.
�Wanna play a game?� He inclined his head towards the tables.
�Sure.� Vin picked up his beer and followed the guy to a table at the back of the room. He picked out a pool cue as the man racked the balls.
�You can break.�
Vin nodded and broke, getting a striped ball in a pocket.
�Name�s Jack.� He held out his hand.
�Vin.� Vin shook hands. Was it his imagination or did Jack hold his hand a little long? He missed his next shot.
Jack managed to get two in before missing.
�New in town? Don�t think I�ve seen you here before.�
�Yeah, I�m in town on business. Heard the music and came in.�
Jack smiled. Jack was the same height as Vin. He had long black hair that he had pulled back in a small ponytail and his eyes a dark blue.
They were on their second game; Vin winning the first, when Vin began to notice Jack was checking him out. Or at least Vin thought he was. Every time Vin looked at him questioningly Jack would just smile widely.
Vin started to look a little closer at Jack. He was a good-looking man, muscular like he worked out. Jack wore a sleeveless T-shirt and jeans with cowboy boots. Vin wondered what Jack�s hair would look like undone.
What about Ezra? a voice said in his head. I�m not doing anything but looking, Vin said back. And he wasn't, he had no interest in anyone else.
Vin had lost count of the number of beers he had had but he was feeling real good. Not like he was drunk but alert, like he could go all night. He felt a little warm but he felt pumped.
Jack had begun to discreetly brush against Vin, as he would walk past. Every time Jack touched him, Vin felt a tingle all through his body. Jack bent over the table for a shot in front of Vin and then looked back and smiled.
Vin got up to take his shot and saw Jack look directly at his crotch and then up to Vin�s eyes. Jack smiled and moved to block Vin from shooting. Shit, Jack was trying to pick him up! Vin felt himself getting hard.
�Why don�t we continue this game somewhere else?�
Jack low, husky voice went straight to Vin�s groin. He�d been hit on before but had never been interested until Ezra. Damn, Ezra. But Ezra wasn�t here, so why worry about that?
Jack moved to walk past Vin and let his hand brush against the growing bulge in Vin�s pants. Vin tried not to groan. Jack placed his hand on Vin�s upper arm and gave a little tug.
�My place isn�t far.�
�My hotel is closer,� Vin said. Moving to put up his pool cue, he staggered a little. He stopped and grabbed the pool table. Man, he felt dizzy.
Jack smiled. �I�ll get the tab.�
The trip to the hotel was a blur. Jack led Vin to his car and kept stroking Vin�s erection as he drove. Once inside the elevator, Jack began to kiss him, placing a thigh between Vin�s legs and grinding his crotch into Vin�s. Vin grabbed Jack�s ass and pulled Jack tighter against him. Vin had Jack�s shirt out of his pants when the elevator stopped on his floor.
As soon as the hotel room door was closed, Vin had Jack pressed to the door, kissing him deeply. He flung Jack�s shirt to the floor. They undressed each other on the way to the bed, Jack maneuvering Vin backwards, lips never losing contact with skin.
Vin let Jack�s hair loose and ran his fingers through it.
�Been wondering what that would feel like,� he said breaking the kiss as the back of his knees hit the bed.
Jack smiled and ran his fingers though Vin�s long hair. He leaned close and kissed Vin�s neck and then bit and sucked a red mark.
�Been wondering the same thing myself.�
Jack reached down and unbuckled Vin�s belt, locking his eyes with Vin�s as he unfastened his pants. He then dropped to his knees, tugged Vin�s pants down and helped him step out of them.
He looked up again holding Vin�s gaze as he took Vin in his mouth. Vin groaned, throwing his head back as he ran his hands through Jack�s hair.
Jack ran his hands up Vin�s legs then gripped Vin�s ass, kneading it and pulling Vin closer, taking all of Vin into his mouth. Jack then probed Vin�s entrance with a finger.
�God Jack,� Vin moaned clutching Jack�s shoulders. Nothing had ever felt like this, every touch was magnified.
Jack pulled back, releasing Vin and standing up.
�Don�t wanna rush things, we got all night.�
Vin unfastened Jack�s pants and then pulled him close to capture Jack�s lips in fierce kiss. They tumbled back onto the bed.
Vin rolled so he was on top, working Jack�s clothes off. He gazed down at Jack lying nude under him. Jack was nicely tanned and muscular. Vin ran his hands over Jack�s hairy chest enjoying the feel of it.
Vin kissed and licked his way down Jack�s chest. He ran his hands down Jack�s sides and then under his ass. Vin ran his tongue down Jack�s shaft and then took his balls into his mouth. Jack thrust his hips.
After a few moments Jack pulled away.
�My turn.�
He moved Vin onto his back and bit and sucked his way down Vin�s chest. Jack left many marks until he got to Vin�s cock. Jack was rough and Vin moaned in pain and pleasure. Jack squeezed Vin�s balls as again he took Vin�s shaft into his mouth. Vin moaned as Jack jammed two fingers into him.
�Jesus.� Vin groaned as he tried to move back but Jack held him down.
�Ain�t had many men, have you?�
Vin opened his eyes to see Jack looking at him; Jack�s mouth was poised over Vin�s cock.
�Only one.�
Jack smile grew wider. �We�re gonna have some fun tonight, Vin. Got some things to teach you, I�m guessing. Turn over.�
Vin rolled over onto his stomach and Jack pulled on his hips.
�Up on all fours, Vin. Gonna ride ya like a cowboy.�
Jack rubbed his hands over Vin�s ass and up his back. He kissed his way up Vin�s back and then bit him hard on the back of the neck. As he bit Vin, he reached around and fondled his cock.
Vin moaned again and moved back to rub his ass against Jack.
�Jack.�
�Be careful what ya ask for,� Jack said as he moved the end of his cock against Vin�s entrance. He reached around again and gripped Vin�s dick as he slammed into him in one stroke.
Vin gasped but then Jack was moving in him, hitting that spot and Vin forgot the pain as the pleasure took over.
�Wanna fuck you all night, Vin.�
Vin moved to kiss him but Jack broke away after a moment.
"Don't wanna waste time kissing," he said. �Got other things I want you to do with that mouth.�
*****
Vin woke the next morning sick to his stomach. He staggered to the bathroom and hung his head over the toilet. Why the hell did he feel so bad? He hadn't drunk that much had he?
He wiped a hand over his sweaty face. He felt cold. Noticing he had nothing on, he grabbed a towel and wrapped it around his shoulders. What had happened last night? He shivered but he felt hot.
As he sat with his head resting on the cool toilet seat he tried to remember last night. He remembered going to the bar, playing pool but after that things became fuzzy.
He woke with a start; he had dozed off lying on the toilet. As he got up he noticed the stickiness between his legs. He ran his hand down his butt, it was moist with KY jelly and semen. He stared at his hand. What had Jack done to him, what had he, Vin, let happen?
He turned the shower on full blast and stood under the hot water. Flashes of the night before played behind his closed eyes. Jack must have put something in his drink. He remembered feeling strange at the club, bits and pieces of bringing Jack back here to his hotel room. God, how had this happened? He was an ATF agent for Christ�s sake, not some stupid kid.
Ezra? How could he explain this to Ezra? No, he couldn't, he wouldn't. He wouldn't tell anyone what had happened.
Vin could hardly walk or sit down when he went back to class Monday morning. He found he couldn�t concentrate he felt restless and irritable. Ezra had called numerous times over the weekend, leaving messages at the front desk. Vin had been ignoring the phone. He waited until he knew Ezra wouldn�t be at home to call and leave a message.
*****
�You alright,Ezra?�
Buck had followed Ezra into the break room. Ezra had been distracted all morning and looked like he hadn�t slept.
�It�s probably nothing.� Ezra said as he poured himself another cup of coffee.
�What is nothing?� Buck leaned against the counter.
�Well, it is just that I haven�t been able to get in touch with Vin all weekend. I left several messages but the front desk has picked up every time I called.�
Buck shrugged. �Probably nothing, maybe him and some of the other guys went out to do some sightseeing.�
�Yes, that is what I was thinking.� Ezra said trying to convince himself.
He didn�t want to admit that he and Vin had talked every night since Vin had been gone. Ezra knew that the others were okay with their relationship but he didn�t feel comfortable talking about it.
*****
Vin couldn�t believe he was leaving to go back to Denver in the morning. His training classes had suffered these last two weeks but he didn�t care, all he cared about was finding Jack. He wanted to find that bastard and make him pay. Jack had been calling every night, asking Vin if he wanted Jack to come back over.
"Hey, Vin. Ya miss me? Wanna feel me slamming in ya again? I wanna hear ya moaning, begging me to go faster, faster."
Then he'd laugh and hang up. Each night he'd say the same type things, each night it brought more memories back.
Vin sat on the bed staring at nothing. He had avoided talking to Ezra as much as possible. He knew Ezra would know something was wrong but he didn't know what to say. Now he was going to have to go back and face everyone.
*****
Ezra thought he had been worried while Vin was away, especially the couple of weeks. He had hardly gotten a chance to talk to Vin. The few times he had reached Vin on the phone, Vin had been quick to get off. He kept saying he had work to do for class and Ezra had felt guilty for keeping him from studying.
Vin had been back three days and Ezra was more worried. Vin had avoided being alone with him, saying he was tired-and he looked it. Vin was restless at work and appeared as if he hadn�t slept. Chris had gotten Vin to agree to join them at Inez�s after work, it was Friday and they traditionally met there to unwind from the week.
Vin had been drinking more than normal since they had arrived and he was clearly in a pissy mood. Chris had tried to get him to play pool but Vin had laughed mirthlessly and said he didn't like pool anymore. Then he had gotten up and went to the restroom where he had been for the last twenty minutes.
�Something wrong with him?� Chris asked Ezra when he and Buck were alone at the table.
�I am the last one you should ask. He hasn�t had much to say to me since he returned. �
�Think something happened in San Francisco?� Buck glanced towards the bathroom but there was no sign of Vin.
�If it did I can name when it happened,� Ezra said as he swirled the ice in his glass. �It has been over two weeks since he began avoiding my calls and acting distant.�
They all looked as the bathroom door banged open. Vin came striding out. He walked straight past the table and out the door.
Ezra was beginning to wonder if someone impersonating Vin had come back to Denver in his place. He didn't know what was wrong or how to begin to fix it. He glanced at Chris and Buck.
"I'm going to see if I can find out what's wrong."
"Call us if you need help, we'll be out at the ranch."
Ezra nodded then left.
*****
Vin drove straight home. He couldn't stand to be in that bar another minute. He kept having flashes of that night at the club, he half expected Jack to show up and walk over to the table, start telling everyone what he'd done to Vin.
He parked outside his apartment but sat in the car. He didn't want to go inside. It was worse when he was alone; there was nothing to distract his mind. That was his worst enemy now; it played the images he could remember of that night over and over. He laid his head on the steering wheel. Would his life ever be back the way it was?
He jumped when someone knocked on the driver's window. He looked up to see Ezra's concerned face.
"Vin, open the door."
Vin closed his eyes and leaned back on the steering wheel. He sat back up a heartbeat later and opened the door.
Vin headed for his apartment, Ezra following quietly behind him. He went to the refrigerator and started to grab a beer but then stopped. No use hiding behind alcohol, he'd had enough tonight.
Ezra sat on the couch and waited for Vin to come back in. Vin sat in the rocker by the window.
"Vin, I don't know what is wrong but I want to help you. I can't if you won't tell me."
Vin continued to rock. Ezra sighed.
"Is it me? Something I did?"
"No."
Vin glanced briefly at Ezra. He could tell Ezra was worried, he didn't blame him, but he couldn't talk about it. How would Ezra ever understand? How could Ezra feel the same about him if he knew?
"Just tell me. Whatever it is, we can fix it." Ezra moved to sit closer to Vin.
Vin gave a short bark of laughter.
"Fix it? Ain't nothing ta fix and I don't feel like talking."
A single tear fell down his face and Vin brushed it angrily away.
"Can't you get that through your head? I ain't interested in talking and I don't remember inviting ya over here."
Ezra just stared at him. Why was Vin acting this way?
"Vin-"
"Goddamn it, Ezra, just go the hell home."
Vin got up and began to pace. He couldn't look at Ezra.
"Vin,� Ezra said softly as he watched Vin pace, "I love you. I know something is wrong, I just want-"
"Fine. If yer so all fired set on staying here then I'm leaving."
Vin turned and stormed out the door.
Ezra sat there staring at the door. What was the matter with Vin? Why was he shutting him out?
Ezra sat there trying to decide what to do. Should he stay and wait for Vin to come back or go home and try again later? The phone rang, startling Ezra. Hoping it might be Vin, he picked up.
"Hello?"
There was a pause and then a male voice said, "Is Vin there?"
"He's not here right now, can I take a message?"
Ezra heard a throaty laugh.
"You must be Ezra."
"Who is this?"
"Jack. Hasn't Vin mentioned me yet?" Jack laughed. "Have you enjoying what I taught Vin? Bet you have. I had a lot to show him in a short amount of time. Don't thank me, it was my pleasure." Jack drew out 'my' and laughed again.
"What are you talking about? Who is this?"
"Guess I'd be man number two on old Vin's score card. I think I'm more memorable though. I know I've been thinking about Vin. God, the way he moaned when I slipped it in him. Had him panting and bucking like a bronco. Shit, I'm getting hot just thinking about him.
Tell him I called ok?"
Then the line went dead.
Ezra stared at the phone until it started to beep. He hung it up and sat back on the couch.
Vin had sex with another man? Vin had had a one-night stand and given this man his home phone number? Ezra buried his head in his hands. No wonder Vin didn't want to talk, this must be why he had been acting so strange. Had Vin wanted to leave Inez's so he wouldn't miss this call?
Obviously this Jack knew all about Ezra. Hell, the man knew his name even. Why hadn't Vin had the guts to tell him it was over?
*****
�Still no answer?�
Buck watched as Chris paced the living room and then slammed the phone down.
�No, I keep getting voicemail at Vin�s and Ezra�s.�
�Maybe that�s good?�
�You saw the way Vin was acting. Something isn�t right. He's been strange every since he got back from that training.�
Buck stretched back on the couch and watched Chris continue to pace.
�Maybe he needed to unwind. You know he hates being away from home and Ezra. He hardly drinks normally.�
�Hardly drinks? Did you forget the way he was knocking them back tonight?� Chris stopped in front of Buck.
�No.� Buck sighed. �I agree he�s been acting funny since he got back and from what Ezra says before that but let�s not jump to conclusions.�
Chris ran a hand through his hair then grabbing his beer sat on the couch next to Buck.
�I�m trying not to. I want to jump in the truck and barge in over there but you see I�m not.� Chris smiled as he took a drink.
�Your control amazes me.� Buck smiled back and slapped Chris� leg.
They both froze and looked away.
Every since they had found out about Vin and Ezra�s relationship they had felt awkward around each other, not that either one mentioned it. Things were fine as long as they kept their distance from one another.
Chris took another swallow of beer and tried not to think about the burning imprint of Buck�s hand on his skin, even through his jeans. He seemed to be hyper aware of every accidental brush of Buck against him. Was it just, what was the word, like a post-hypnotic suggestion? All he could think about was what it would be like to touch Buck, to see if his skin felt as silky as it looked.
That time they had all been dancing at Inez�s, all Chris could do was watch Buck�s body as he danced. Wonder what it would feel like to press up against him as he saw Ezra and Vin do.
Was that just because they were doing it and that�s where he got the idea? He stood up and headed toward the kitchen.
�Want another beer?�
�Better not. I should be heading back to town. It�s- � Buck looked at his watch, �- hell, it�s almost two am.�
Chris brought two beers back from the kitchen and handed one to Buck. �Stay, it�s too late to be driving back.�
They held each other�s eyes and it was Buck who looked away first.
�All right.�
*****
Chris woke up early. He hadn�t been able to sleep. He kept thinking how Buck was in the other room. Damn, when had this happened? He was being stupid. He�d been married for Christ sake. Why was he laying here thinking about Buck sprawled out on that big, queen-size bed in the spare room?
He got up, pulling on some sweat pants and went into the kitchen to make coffee. Once it was ready he poured a cup and went to sit on the porch swing.
He loved the early mornings. The sun had just begun to peek over the horizon, the sky red. He had a wonderful view of the mountains. He turned as he heard the screen door open, out came Buck, mug in hand. He too wore sweat pants, which Chris noticed rode low on his hips. He glanced down at Buck�s hips and then up and blushed as he saw Buck watching him.
�Been up long?� Buck said as he sat in a nearby rocker.
�Nah, just got out here a couple of minutes ago. Couldn�t sleep.�
�Me neither.�
They sat silently sipping their coffee as they watched the day begin.
�Sure is nice. I enjoy coming out here.� Buck said as he continued to gaze at the sky.
�Yeah, I like sitting out here. Great way to start the day.�
Buck sighed.
How could he bring up how he was feeling? He couldn�t just say Hey Chris, I think I�m in love with you. That wasn�t something you said to your straight, best friend who you had known all your life. He hadn�t even thought about Chris that way before. Hell, he hadn�t thought of any man that way. He loved women! Everyone knew that!
So why wasn�t his heart listening any more? When had it turned on him and made him start watching Chris� every move?
He hadn�t told anyone but he hadn�t slept with a woman in over a month. Sure he�d gone out on dates but he hardly got pass kissing them when Chris� face started popping in his mind.
What the hell was he going to do? Did he say something and possibly ruin their friendship? Or did he say nothing and go crazy with wanting to touch Chris? He was pretty sure Chris suspected something but whether it horrified him or not Buck wasn�t sure. He couldn�t stop himself from touching Chris when he got the chance, but he tried to be casual about it. He thought Chris was about to say something last night when he�d slapped Chris� leg but then Chris had looked away and then gotten up to get a beer.
He sighed again. Best put this line of thought on hold until they figured out what was wrong with Vin.
�Think we should try Vin or Ezra first this morning?�
Chris frowned down at his mug.
�Vin should be up soon. Let�s wait till after breakfast and see if they call.�
Buck smiled. �How about some of my famous French toast?�
Chris grinned back. �Famous huh? Well can�t say no to that.�
Laughing they headed back into the house.
*****
Ezra woke early but he didn�t really think he had actually slept. He had dozed through the night and then would wake from a recurring nightmare about Vin leaving him.
He stretched and rolled over on the couch. He had fallen asleep in the living room. When he got home he'd unplugged the phone and sat there with a glass of Scotch. The entire night played over and over in his head, then his mind had started remembering when Vin had started avoiding his calls. Is that when Vin had met that man? Ezra couldn't bring himself to say the name. Had Vin been spending all his time with him? Why else would Vin suddenly change?
Ezra got up to brew some Starbucks and then he checked his phone. The number of calls from Chris surprised him. He glanced at the clock. Chris was always an early riser, maybe he should call.
�Larabee.�
Ezra smiled. Even at home Chris answered the phone like he was at work.
�Mr. Larabee, I am returning your numerous calls.�
Ezra sat in the kitchen watching the pot drip.
�Ezra. What are you doing up so early? Is Vin there?�
Ezra drew designs on the table with his spoon.
�Couldn�t sleep and no, Mr. Tanner is not here. I assume he is at home."
�Is everything okay?�
Ezra hesitated. What could he say? Hell, what should he say?
�Ezra? Are you still there?�
�Yes.�
Chris sighed into the phone. �Get dressed and get your ass over here. Buck is making his famous French toast, we�ll save you some.�
Ezra could hear Buck laughing in the background.
�That isn�t-�
�No argument. If you aren�t here in an hour, I will come and get you.�
With that Chris hung up. Ezra grinned at the phone. Chris Larabee was not one to be denied. Maybe it would be good to be distracted for awhile. Besides he knew Chris well enough to know that Chris and Buck would be hammering on his door in an hour.
*****
Ezra arrived at the ranch a little later. Chris and Buck were sitting on the porch as he drove up.
�Have I missed the famous French toast?� Ezra asked as he closed the car door.
�Nah,� Buck laughed, �we decided to wait on ya.�
�That was -�
�Come inside, Ezra, and don�t complain. It�s too early for all of us.� Chris said as he got up to open the door and ushered Ezra inside.
Ezra sat at the table as Buck moved around the kitchen making breakfast. Chris poured coffee and then went to stand by Buck.
"You want some help?"
"Nah, sit down and entertain Ezra while I work my magic."
"Magic?" Chris snorted. "Last time you cooked I had to smash the smoke detector to make it stop, the dogs from two counties were howling."
Ezra couldn't help but laugh.
"Don't you believe him, Ezra," Buck demanded. "Chris forces me to cook every time he makes me come out here."
"Make you come out here? I'm thinking of charging you rent. JD keeps asking if you still live there."
Chris and Buck shared a smile at the laughter they heard from Ezra. They had been worried when he finally showed up. One look told them plenty. Something was wrong but the direct approach didn't work on Ezra.
"You're cramping my style, Stud. Sit down and get out of my way. The master chef is at work. Ezra, make him stay put."
"You are the one with the weapon, Buck."
Buck grinned as he began to wave the wooden handled turner.
"You're right, Ezra. I could smack some butt with this."
Chris glared at Ezra and then at Buck.
"Don't you get any ideas there, old dog. I'd hate to have to wipe up this floor with your skinny ass."
Buck and Ezra grinned.
"Well, those are fighting words, Larabee, but it's time to eat first."
Buck placed French toast on a plate and then brought it to the table. After everyone filled their plates, they sat eating in silence for awhile.
Ezra looked from Chris to Buck. He wondered if they realized how obvious it was, well at least to him, how much they cared for each other? He rolled his eyes. No, he doubted they knew it yet. It made him sad in a way. He remembered when he'd first realized how much he loved Vin. Ezra moved his food around on his plate.
"Is it okay, Ezra?"
Ezra looked up to see Buck studying him.
"Yes, I'm just not very hungry I guess."
"Anything you want to talk about?"
Ezra sighed.
"I wouldn't know where to begin and I don't want to burden you. It's nothing."
"If something's bothering you we want to help."
Chris got up to bring the coffeepot back to the table. He refilled Ezra's cup and then leaned over Buck to fill his. Chris glanced at Buck's face as Buck leaned back towards Chris, brushing his shoulder against Chris.
Good lord why didn�t they just get on with it? Ezra thought.
Chris topped off his cup and returned the pot to the stove.
"So, did you get to talk to Vin?" Chris continued as he sat down.
"Yes and no."
Chris opened his mouth but then closed it with a look from Buck. They waited until Ezra continued.
"I followed him to his apartment. He refused to talk to me. He kept telling me to leave and then he said if I wasn't going to leave then he was. I waited there trying to decide what to do and then the phone rang."
Ezra paused again. He sipped his coffee and tried to compose himself.
"This...this man was calling....for Vin." Ezra took another sip. "He knew who I was, said he and Vin had...." He cleared his throat. "Had been....involved while Vin was in California."
"Involved?"
Chris looked at Buck and then at Ezra.
"You mean.."
"Yes...he...he enjoyed giving...giving me...details."
Ezra paused again.
"I...." Ezra stood up abruptly. "Excuse me."
He bolted down the hall towards the bathroom.
Buck got up to follow him after a moment and stopped outside the bathroom door. He could hear the sounds of retching from inside. He went back to the kitchen.
"He's throwing up."
"Jesus, Buck. How could Vin do this to Ezra? He ain't the type to fool around."
"Don't know. Maybe he figured a one nighter didn't count. That what Ezra didn't know wouldn't hurt him."
"Then why has he been acting like he has? Think its guilt?"
"Could be. Or maybe this guy ended up meaning more that just a fling."
Chris shook his head.
"I can't believe that. Vin loves Ezra or I thought he did. Can't believe he'd meet someone that quick and fall in love."
"Or lust."
Chris nodded.
"Yeah, there is always that."
*****
Chris came out on the porch awhile later where he found Ezra. He sat on a rocker.
�You doing okay?�
Ezra shook his head.
�Honestly, no. I�m numb. I don't know what to think." Ezra�s voice trailed off and he wiped at his eyes.
�I know ya love him, Ezra. We�re going to work through this together. And you know he loves you.�
�Does he?� Ezra looked up then, his eyes red. �How can you think that? I don�t. How could Vin pick up some stranger or let some stranger pick up him? Why couldn't he be honest with me? If...if it's over between us......"
Chris shifted his feet. He had thought the same things but hadn�t wanted to bring them up.
�But he is back, Ezra. He's here, we just need to get him to talk."
Ezra laughed humorlessly. �Yeah, good luck with that.�
Ezra got up. �I think I�m going to go home, see if I can get some more sleep. I can�t think straight. Thanks for breakfast and will you thank Buck for me too?�
�You�re welcome to stay here, Ezra. You know I got extra rooms.�
Ezra studied Chris and then said, �Do me a favor, Chris. I know I am the last to give out advice at the moment, but tell Buck how you feel. I think you will be surprised to find out he feels the same.�
Chris felt his face flush. �What?�
Ezra chuckled and waved as he headed for his car.
*****
Vin woke later but still felt tired. He glanced at the clock. Hell, he couldn�t remember the last time he had still been in bed at this hour. Vin closed his eyes. Yes, he did. The day he'd flown out to go to California. He and Ezra had stayed in bed all morning; trying to spend as much time as possible in each other's arms before Vin left.
The phone rang and he grabbed it.
"Hello?"
"Hey lover. You in bed? Is Ezra in there with you? Did he tell you I called? I'm jealous, I bet you're using my moves on him. I hope he appreciates what I taught you. Damn, you sure as hell were a good student."
"What the fuck are you doing calling me here? What about Ezra?"
"He didn't tell you?" Jack laughed. "He didn't sound too happy to hear about us, Vin. I figured you'd have told him by now."
"I'm gonna find you, you bastard."
"Knew you missed me. Maybe I'll have to pay Ezra a visit, be sure to tell him to watch out what he drinks."
Jack hung up.
Vin slammed the phone down. Damn it! Had Jack really talked to Ezra? Vin checked the caller ID and saw the same number the night before while he was out. Shit!
*****
Ezra pulled the Jag over half way down the road from Chris�. He rolled down the window and tried to fight the nausea again.
What was he to do? He loved Vin with all his heart. Should he try to fight for him? Did he need too? Or had Vin made his choice and Ezra was to be the last to know? How had Vin gotten mixed up with a stranger? He'd only been gone a month. Vin wasn�t much of a drinker so he couldn't blame it on being drunk. Vin prided himself on being in control. Ezra�s cell phone rang.
�Hello?�
�Ezra! I�ve been calling and calling. Can I come over�and� talk? Or you can come over here?�
Ezra closed his eyes.
�I am not home at the moment.�
Vin paused. �Oh, then ya want to come over here, or I can meet ya someplace? I need to talk to ya.�
Ezra hesitated. He didn�t want Vin coming to his house, it would be harder to get Vin to leave. But then he didn�t relish the thought of going to Vin�s and being reminded of last night. Was Vin going to tell him it was over? Ezra assumed that, that man had told Vin he'd talked to him.
�How about we meet at Starbuck�s on Main? At the outside tables? I can be there in forty-five minutes.�
It was Vin�s turn to hesitate. �Okay. I�ll meet ya there.�
Ezra hung up before Vin had a chance to say anything else.
*****
Vin got there before Ezra. He got a large coffee and grabbed a table away from everyone else. He would have rather talked to Ezra at Ezra�s apartment, not that he knew what he was going to say, but Ezra had given him the feeling it was here or nowhere. He shifted in his seat, damn he was tired. He hoped the coffee would help clear his head.
Ezra arrived a few minutes later. He had parked in the parking garage across the street. He noticed Vin as he walked towards the building. He acknowledge him with a wave of his hand before going inside to get his own coffee.
Vin drummed his fingers on the table waiting for Ezra to come back out. He looked up when Ezra approached and felt his stomach drop. What was he going to say?
�Ez.�
Vin noticed Ezra flinch when he called him that.
Vin fiddled with his cup and looked everywhere but at Ezra.
Ezra sighed but said nothing. He was going to wait for Vin to say whatever it was he wished to say.
�Ez..Ezra, I�m sorry,� Vin mumbled.
Ezra raised an eyebrow but still said nothing.
�I'm sorry I yelled last night. Weren't no cause in me storming out.�
Ezra couldn�t help it, he snorted.
"I�m sorry. I�� Vin�s voice trailed away. �Jack told me he talked to you,� Vin said softly.
Ezra hadn�t expected it but the sound of that man�s name from Vin sent a flame of hatred through him.
�Don�t you mention that name to me. How dare you mention mine to him?�
�It ain't what ya think, Ezra. I don't wanna talk about that, it...it just happened."
Ezra lowered his voice. �Just happened? For two weeks it just happened? You weren't gone that long, couldn't you keep it in your pants? Were you just horny or is it something more?�
Vin said nothing.
�What do you want, Vin? Absolution? Shall I forgive you and wish you a happy life? Did you ask me here to tell me it is over between us?�
Ezra didn�t want the answers to any of these questions. He wanted things back the way they had been a month ago. He wanted to punch someone out; he just wasn't sure who.
What Vin said next still shocked him.
�I don�t know, Ezra. I don�t know anymore.�
�Do you love him?� Ezra heard himself whisper.
Love? Vin gripped his cup. He hated lying to Ezra but maybe it was best if he thought there was someone else. Better than Ezra thinking that Vin had allowed himself to be made a fool of. He didn't want Ezra's pity. Vin toyed with the lid; when he looked up he saw that Ezra had left.
*****
Chris called Vin into his office Wednesday afternoon.
�Close the door.� Chris said as Vin entered.
Vin nodded and sat down.
Chris studied him. Vin looked like shit. There were circles under his eyes and it looked like he had lost weight. Not that Vin had a spare ounce to lose. Chris picked up the folder on his desk.
�Got this report from the instructor at the weapons seminar. You failed.�
�What?� Vin looked up from where he had been studying his feet.
�He says here,� Chris flipped through some papers, �that you were in the top five of the class until half way through. Then you stopped participating, were late to classes and then failed the test.�
Chris put the papers down and stared across the desk at Vin.
�Something you want to tell me about?�
�No.� Vin resumed looking at his feet.
�No?� Chris� voice rose. �You piss away a month of training and all you can say is no? What the hell happened there? And what the hell has been wrong with you since you got back?�
�Nothing happened.�
�Have you looked in the mirror lately? You were skinny as a rail before and now you'd make a skeleton look fat. You ain�t been sleeping and you�re irritable as hell.�
Chris paused again but Vin said nothing.
�Are you on something?�
�Am I what?�
Chris saw the look of pain in Vin�s eyes. The first look of anything Chris had seen since Vin had been back.
�You heard me. Do I need to get you drug tested? Make it a part of your permanent file?�
Vin looked down again and began to fidget with the leg of his pants.
�Ain�t nothing wrong with me.�
�Is that a yes, I need to order a test?�
Vin stood and leaned over the desk. He glared at Chris.
�Stay out of my damn business. Nothing wrong that I can�t handle.�
�Forty-eight hours. I�ll give you that long to tell me what is going on or I will drag your ass in for testing myself.�
Chris stood and leaned so he was almost nose to nose with Vin.
�Don�t think I�m playing with you, Vin. You are my friend and I�m not going to sit and watch you piss your life and your career away.�
Vin stared at him and then turned and stalked out of the office.
*****
Vin sat staring at his computer screen. He was supposed to be writing up a report on the seminar he had attended but he hadn�t gotten further than a couple of paragraphs. It was Friday morning and his deadline with Chris was almost up. He was glad this week was almost over. Ezra was ignoring him and the others were treading lightly around them both. Vin's cell phone rang.
�Hello?�
�Hey Vin, how�s it hanging, man?�
�Jack,� Vin growled as he got up from his desk and walked toward the restrooms. "Leave me the fuck alone.�
�You read my mind, Vin. I�m going to be flying out your way tonight, was wondering if we could hook up? Finish what we started?�
�You�re coming here? You bastard, yeah come here and let me get my hands on you.�
�I remember what it's like to have your hands all over me, Vin. If you don't want to, I'm sure I can get Ezra to come meet me. "
"You touch Ezra and I'll kill you."
Jack sighed.
"Now, now Vin. Is that any way to be? I think Ezra and I would have a good time. That southern drawl of his had me all hard."
�I'm warning you.�
"Grand Hotel. Room 602. Eight pm. If you aren't here, I'll be giving Ezra a ring."
*****
Ezra had walked off after he'd heard Vin say Jack's name. He wondered what this guy wanted. He heard Vin repeat the Grand Hotel, Eight pm. Was Jack coming here to see Vin? Ezra got up and headed towards the break room as Vin came back to his desk.
*****
Vin arrived at the Grand Hotel right at eight. He went up to the room and knocked.
�You must be Vin.�
Vin was surprised to see a tall blonde guy answer the door. He looked like a body builder, he had lots of huge muscles and his hair was cut really short.
�Yeah, I�m Vin. Where the hell is Jack?�
The man smiled. �Jack�s here. He�s on the phone. Come on in.�
He stepped aside to let Vin in. He checked out Vin�s ass as he walked by and gave the thumbs up sign to Jack.
�That�s right. Room 602. Twenty minutes? Sounds good. Just leave it outside the door.�
He hung up the phone then leaned back in the chair.
�Vin. You look better than I remembered. Did Mike introduce himself?�
Vin glared at him.
�Vin, this is my old friend Mike. Mike this is Vin, I was telling you about Vin.� Jack grinned over at Mike.
�Heard all about you, Vin.� Mike stood by the door.
�How about a beer, Vin? We got some in a cooler. Let me grab you one."
"Keep your fucking beer. I came to tell you to leave me the fuck alone or you are gonna be sorry. You keep pushing me and I'm gonna push back."
"Is that right? Lie to yourself, Vin but you can't lie to me. Mike, you should have seen old Vin squirming under me. Begging me to fuck him hard. You liked it rough, didn't ya? Bet Ezra is gonna like it rough too."
"I told you, don't you try messing with Ezra."
Vin took a step towards Jack but Mike moved from where he stood.
"I haven't messed with Ezra yet. Thought we'd wait for you."
Jack nodded to Mike who moved to the bathroom. He stepped out a moment later dragging Ezra's limp form.
Vin's mouth hung open in horror.
"Your boyfriend got here before you did. Guess he was anxious to meet me. Seemed to think I was here to take you away from him. It was sad to see wasn't it Mike?"
Mike smiled and nodded.
"Told me he loved you and was prepared to fight for you."
"What the hell did you do to him?"
"Mike gave him a little knock upside the head. He should be coming around soon. Then we'll give him something to drink and we can get this party started."
Vin made a lunge at Jack but Mike grabbed him.
"Don't make this harder than it has to be, Vin. It'll be like old times. You cooperate and we won't hurt Ezra too bad. You resist, we'll make it hurt real bad. For both of you."
Vin had been staring in shock at Ezra lying on the floor. Had he seen Ezra move? Yes, Ezra's hand was moving toward his boot, were he kept his .32.
"Old times? Like when you drugged me?"
Jack and Mike both snickered.
"Mike, you should have seen old Vin here. He didn't know what hit him when that X took effect in the bar. I tried picking him up first but he wouldn't bite. Ha! Once I dropped that X in his beer, he was ready to do more than bite. Too bad you can't remember it all, Vin. We had a hell of a time. You'll remember tonight all right."
Vin braced himself.
"I'm sure you gentlemen will remember tonight as well, but for different reasons. Hands up. I'm sure you've assumed the position before too."
Vin couldn't resist grinning at the look on Jack and Mike's faces at the turn of events. The grin was quickly gone with one glance at Ezra.
Ezra stood holding the gun on the two men. His face was a mask of fury.
"Call Chris. He will be able to handle this below the radar."
Vin went and picked up the phone. Ezra had each man place his hands behind his head and then put their foreheads to the floor. He stood out of reach and waited for Chris to arrive.
"Ezra," Vin began.
"This is neither the time nor the place."
*****
Chris and the other men jostled Jack and Mike out of the room thirty minutes later. Chris had called in some favors and the two men would be handled quietly. There were enough drugs in the hotel room to put them away for awhile and Ezra said he would press charges if necessary. Jack had mouthed off about how Vin had picked him up and this was all a step-up until Chris had punched him.
No one had said much after that until the police van drove away.
"Vin."
Vin looked over at Nathan, who hung back from the others.
"Vin, if I can help in any way. You know I'm here for ya."
"Thanks, Nathan. I think...I think I oughta get tested, ya know, for HIV." Vin said the last part quietly.
"Yeah, the clinic Rain works at can do that. Nobody needs to know. I'll set it up with her, all right?"
Vin gave him a small smile.
"Thanks, Nathan. I owe ya."
Nathan shook his head.
"You don't owe me nothing, Vin. I'm your friend."
*****
Vin approached Ezra's car. Ezra and Chris were standing beside it talking and turned as they noticed him.
"Can I talk to you, Ez?"
Ezra nodded at Chris' glance.
"I'll be at home if either of you need me."
Chris headed off to his own car.
"Ezra, I'm sorry."
"Sorry? Why didn't you tell me,Vin? Why did you let me think you'd found someone else?"
"I was stupid, how would it look, an ATF agent getting drugged?"
"Maybe like you were human? That we all make mistakes? Is that the only thing that worried you?"
"You don't understand, Ezra. I'd look like a fool."
"To who, me? Do you think I would think less of you because someone slipped something in your drink? You didn't trust me enough to tell me but you were fine with lying to me. Letting me think you'd just picked up some stranger or vise versa. No one is perfect, Vin. Sometimes we slip up and let down our guard."
"Yeah, that's fine for you to say. What about tonight? You were in control weren't ya? You didn't make a fucking mistake."
"What? It's my fault now we didn't get raped and drugged? I'm used to being undercover but it was just luck I had my gun on me. What if I hadn't? If you had warned me you'd hooked up with some sexual predator I wouldn't have walked into that stupid hotel."
"And why the hell were you there? Nobody asked ya to go, how did you know where I'd be?"
Ezra clenched his fists trying to fight the urge to scream.
"I thought...I was going to talk to him-"
"And say what? Damn it, if you had kept your nose out of my business-"
"Your business? Oh, so this is your business?"
Vin took a deep breath. He was saying stuff he didn't mean to be saying. The thought of Jack raping Ezra and making him watch had made him crazy.
"I didn't mean-"
"I think your meaning is perfectly clear. You don't have to worry, Mr. Tanner, I won't be sticking my nose in your business anymore."
Ezra walked around to the driver's side and got in.
"Wait a minute, Ezra-"
Vin came around to the car door but Ezra peeled out.
*****
"You coming over tonight, Buck?"
"Uh, no, Chris. I promised JD I'd help him get ready for his camping trip this weekend. Remember he's taking Casey?"
"Oh, yeah I remember."
"You know, JD." Buck laughed. "He's waited till the last minute to get all the gear ready."
Chris tried not to look disappointed and smiled feebly.
"You'd think the kid would learn. Well, okay then. Guess I'll see ya."
"Yeah, glad we could help out Vin. Wonder what that was all about?"
"Don't know." Chris rubbed his knuckles. "Guess Vin will fill us in later."
"Well, I'd better go. We'll be up all night packing if I know JD."
"Night."
"Night, Chris."
*****
Chris drove slowly home. He thought about stopping at Inez's for a few beers but he knew a few would lead to too many. He was disappointed that Buck wasn't coming by tonight but he didn't want to think too much on why. For the past month Buck had spent every weekend out at the ranch. Chris had found one reason or another to ask Buck over and he had gotten used to Buck saying yes.
*****
Chris was out on the porch swing drinking coffee early Saturday morning. Here he was a week later in the same place but a lot had happened in just seven days.
He had no idea what was going on with Vin. Vin hadn't said much once they had taken Jack and Mike into custody. Ezra had remained tight-lipped too.
Chris shifted so he sat cross-legged in the swing. He leaned over the edge to pick up his coffee. Last week he'd been sitting here waiting for Buck to wake up. Chris sighed. He wasn't a man to sit around analyzing his feelings but he didn't know what to do about Buck.
He had thought about what Ezra had said, that Buck returned his feelings. But did he want to take that chance or make that change in his life? Did he have the guts to take that step? What if Ezra was wrong and he approached Buck and lost his friendship? Maybe it was safer to let things stay as they were. There had been no one special in his life since Sarah and Adam died. He'd managed this long on his own, mostly due to having Buck as a friend.
Chris heard the sound of a vehicle coming up the drive. He broke into a big grin when he recognized Buck's red Chevy pickup.
"Hey Buck. You get JD off okay?"
"Yep, got him packed and outfitted. He better not lose anything. I had to borrow some of it."
Buck got out of his truck and slammed the door heading up the steps.
"Got anymore coffee left?"
"Yeah, it's still pretty fresh."
Chris took a deep breath as Buck went in. Okay, here was his chance. He'd drop some hints and how Buck responded.
Buck came out a few minutes later with a cup of coffee and an extra cup.
"There wasn't much left in the pot so I put on a fresh one, brought you out what was left."
Chris smiled as he held out his cup and Buck poured the extra in his. Buck sat the extra cup on the railing and sat beside Chris in the swing.
"Mite chilly this morning. Looks like fall will be here soon."
Buck blew on his coffee and took a sip.
"Been thinking about that too, I need to start getting the ranch prepared." Chris said.
Buck nodded. "The summer went quick. Or maybe we're just getting older." He chuckled.
"How long have we know each other, Buck?"
Buck cut his eyes to look at Chris. He took another sip of coffee. "About twelve years now."
"We know each other pretty well don't you think? We know how each other thinks, what the other likes."
"This a quiz, Chris?"
"No, just thinking. Most things that are on my mind, I usually already know your opinion on wouldn't you agree?"
Buck turned in the swing slightly so he was facing towards Chris.
"We know each other pretty well. Why?"
"I've just been thinking about....well things....and I thought since I was thinking 'em...that you might be...and ya know....we might....be thinking the same thing."
Buck stared at him with a bewildered expression on his face.
"You did, huh?"
Chris flushed.
"Damn it. Ya know I ain't good with words."
"You do seem to be having trouble this morning." Buck couldn't help but laugh.
"Hell, I'm trying to say....well....I been thinking....Ezra said....I was hoping...."
Buck smiled patiently and then looked towards the road. "Looks like you got more company."
Chris turned to look down the drive. He groaned as he saw Vin's battered jeep. Damn it. He scowled.
"Guess we'll finish this later." Buck patted Chris on the leg as he got up and smiled.
Chris suddenly stopped scowling. Had Buck known all along what he'd been trying to say? He'd kill him.
"Hey Vin. You're just in time for a fresh pot of coffee. Looks like you could use it," Buck said as he leaned against the railing.
Vin parked beside Buck's truck and got out. "Sure could use some. Thanks."
"Go on in and help yourself," Chris said.
Chris looked at Buck but Buck just grinned. He remained leaning on the railing until Vin came back out and took a seat in a rocker. Then Buck sat on the swing again.
"You okay, Vin?"
Vin shook his head and looked up at Chris.
"I've really fucked things up, Chris, and I don't know how to fix 'em."
They all sat quietly sipping their coffee until Vin began to talk. Slowly he told them about California and Jack.
"I only remember bits and pieces. Flashes really. I keep hoping they ain't real." His voice trembled.
"We'll make him pay, Vin. Don't worry."
Vin shook his head slightly. "I don't care about him." He looked up and met Chris' eyes. "What about Ezra? He's never gonna forgive me. What if I've lost him forever?"
"Give him time, Vin. I know he still loves you," Buck said.
"I don't know, Buck. We've both said a lot of stuff that's gonna be hard to just take back. I don't think me lying to him is gonna help much either. Know it's a little late now but I'd like to find out just what X is. I need ta get tested too. Not sure if Jack...."
"Yeah," said Chris. "Nathan said he was going to see what he could find. Don't worry, Vin." Chris met his eyes. "We'll figure this all out together."
Vin gave him a weak smile and then closed his eyes.
*****
Ezra paced back and forth in his kitchen. He had walked to his car several times, even getting in once. He didn't want to stay here. He wanted to go off alone some where, figure out what to do. He wanted to stay and see Vin, make sure he was okay and kill that bastard Jack. And he never wanted to look at Vin again. Every time he looked at Vin, his mind's eye pictured Jack pounding into Vin and Vin moaning Jack's name as he came.
Shit, didn't he have enough drama in his life? He'd done fine before Vin, before this team even. There was no way he could remain with the team after this. He couldn't look at Vin every day, wanting him and hating him.
Ezra stopped. No, that wasn't right. He didn't hate Vin. God help him he wished he did, wished he could. He took a shuddering sigh.
He loved Vin to the core of his being and this was tearing him apart. Why hadn't Vin trusted him enough? Ezra never would have blamed Vin for what had happened. He would have been on the next plane to California, been there for Vin. But Vin hadn't trusted him enough, loved him enough to let him help. Even in that hotel room Vin was angry because Ezra had defused the situation. Would Vin have preferred if Ezra had been unarmed and Jack had gone through with his plan? Maybe Vin wanted Ezra to pay too?
He shook his head. He didn't believe that. He knew it was Vin's pride talking. The same pride that wouldn't let Vin tell anyone he'd been assaulted in the first place. Vin was use to taking care of himself and Ezra knew this was a blow to his self-confidence.
But where did that leave them? They just couldn't say 'I'm sorry' and go back to the way things were. Ezra was no longer sure how he fit into Vin's life or where he fit. Their relationship had been built on love and they had shared their first experiences with a male lover together. Now Vin had seen the opposite side, what if Vin decided it was too much? What if Vin didn't want to continue with this life style?
*****
Chris tried not to be too impatient. Vin had ended up staying all day at the ranch and left late Saturday night. Buck had offered to stay and help him the next day to unload hay in the barn. Chris was now sitting in the den flipping channels as he waited for Buck to get out of the shower.
Chris heard the shower cut off and went into the kitchen to grab a couple of beers. He stopped in the kitchen door. Buck was sitting on the edge of the couch wearing only sweat pants. He was leaning forward watching a football game. Chris had a wonderful view of Buck's long back from his shoulders down to where the pants hugged his ass. Chris watched as a few beads of water ran down Buck's back to be absorbed by the material. Chris' mouth went dry.
Maybe now wasn't the time to try and talk to Buck. Maybe he should wait. He nodded to himself. Yes, he'd wait.
"Find a good game to watch?"
Chris handed Buck a beer and sat on the other end of the couch. Buck smiled and took a sip.
"Thought we might finish that conversation you were trying to have earlier."
"It'll keep." Chris took a hasty drink.
"Nah, it sounded important, Chris. What was it?" Buck looked thoughtful. "You said something about thinking something."
Chris scowled. Was Buck making fun of him? He gave him a hard look.
"Yeah, that was it." Buck smiled. "You were thinking something, that I might be thinking or so you thought."
"Shut up, Buck. I said it wasn't important."
"No, it sounded important. I got to thinking about you thinking and I think you thought something like this."
Buck reached over and took Chris' beer from him and sat both on the coffee table. He smiled at Chris' puzzled look. He scooted closer to Chris and put one arm on the back of the couch.
"I was thinking I was about here and you right there."
Buck leaned closer and locked eyes with Chris. He saw Chris' eyes widen and then his pupils dilate. Buck smile slightly and gently touched his lips to Chris'. Chris sat frozen until Buck began to softly kiss him.
Chris watched in horror as Buck leaned closer to him. It was happening! Buck was going to kiss him, if he was going to turn back it had to be now. He froze as he felt Buck's warm lips touch his, Buck's mustache tickled his mouth. Buck began to place soft kisses against his lips and Chris moved forward.
Chris felt a jolt of longing as their lips parted and their tongues touched. Both men reached out to pull the other closer and they angled their heads for better access.
Chris pulled Buck toward him so that Buck was sprawled across him on the couch. He ran his hands down Buck's damp back feeling the hard muscles under the skin. He moaned his pleasure against Buck's mouth.
Buck moved his hand behind Chris' neck, pulling Chris closer and deepening the kiss. He seemed to want to devour Chris. For Buck, nothing had tasted this good.
They broke apart gasping and stared into each others eyes.
"That...that was a hell of a kiss, Buck."
Buck eyes twinkled and his mouth twitched.
"That was only the first one, Chris."
Chris grinned slowly, a wicked light infusing his eyes. He let his fingers slide through Buck's hair and then tilted Buck's head. Chris nibbled the side of Buck's neck and then sucked the place where neck met shoulder. Buck groaned.
"Can you guess what else I'm thinking, Buck?" Chris said as he kissed and nibbled along Buck's shoulder.
Buck shuddered. He moved so he was lying flush against Chris, moving his hips so their erections rubbed against each other.
"Think I'm thinking the same thing, Stud," Buck breathed.
Chris chuckled throatily.
It was Chris' turn to moan as Buck's hand traveled down his side and Buck reached between Chris' legs.
"Guess you are at that," Chris gasped.
Chris tried to spread his legs further to give Buck more room. One leg fell off the couch so he tried to shift, rolling them both off the couch onto the floor.
Chris looked down at Buck who was now under him and laughed.
"Think we need more space. There's a lot of you I wanna see."
Buck flushed. He wrapped his arms around Chris' waist and kneaded Chris' firm, hard ass.
"There are a few spots on you I wanna check out for myself. You thinking what I'm thinking?" Buck grinned.
"I believe my bed might be just the right size."
Chris moved to get up but Buck tightened his hold. He moved his hand to lower Chris' head down for another passionate kiss. Their tongues exploring and tasting new territory.
Chris leaned his head to rest on Buck's as they broke apart.
"I think number two was a little better than one," Chris panted.
"I improve with practice."
"That you do. If we don't get up now, I'm not letting you up 'til much later."
Buck sighed.
"Guess we better then cause I need more room to work."
*****
Chris looked at his watch and then at the elevator. Where was Ezra? He was late even by Ezra's own standards. He reached for the phone just as it rang.
"Larabee."
"Chris, the is Travis."
"Morning, Judge. What can I do for you?"
"Sorry for not calling you sooner, I just wanted to let you know we'll put a replacement in for Ezra in the next couple of days. I can make it sooner if you need me too."
"Replacement? What are you talking about?"
"Didn't Ezra tell you? He said he was leaving you word."
Chris glanced around his desk and then at this computer. His 'new mail' icon was on.
"I haven't checked my mail yet. Why don't you fill me in?"
"Well, I called Ezra Saturday. We have this weapon smuggling case in South Carolina and we needed someone to go in undercover. I was having a hard time finding the right person, it will involve being under for a couple of month with no outside contact until it goes down. I was delighted when Ezra said yes right away. He is our best undercover agent."
Chris pinched the bridge of his nose and tried not to groan. "He's already left?"
"Yes, he left Saturday evening. There isn't a problem is there, Chris?"
"No, no problem. I want to be kept informed as much as possible, Judge."
"Sure, Chris. I'll get that replacement over to you as soon as possible."
"Thanks."
Chris hung up and sat slowly back in his chair. He hadn't thought of checking on Ezra this weekend. He had only been worried about Vin and then thinking about Buck. He sighed as he got up. He might as well break the news to the team now.
He stepped out in the hall and over to the bullpen area. Everyone was either at their desks or loitering around.
"I need to see everyone in the conference room right now."
Vin glanced over at Ezra's desk.
"Ez isn't here yet, Chris."
"Doesn't matter."
Chris turned and walked down the hall to the conference room.
The others exchanged looks. JD looked from Buck to Vin.
"Think everything is okay? Ain't like Ezra to be this late?"
Vin looked at the clock. He was surprised to see it was after ten. When everyone had taken a seat Chris cleared his throat.
"We are going to be getting a new undercover agent in a few days. Ezra has been loaned out for another assignment with the South Carolina division. I want you to make the new guy feel welcome."
"What? Ezra's gone? When did that happen?" Vin stood up and looked around.
"A replacement? How long will Ezra be gone?" Josiah looked worried. He had meant to talk to Ezra Friday evening but he hadn't gotten the chance. He had tried to call Ezra all weekend but had only gotten the answering machine.
"Why did you loan Ezra out?" Buck said.
Chris held up his hands.
"This was the Judge's idea. He talked it over with Ezra and he left Saturday. Judge said they needed the best undercover agent and we know that's Ezra. He'll be gone until the deal goes down, a few months."
"Months?" Vin was still standing, glaring at Chris. "Where the hell is he?"
"That is all I know. He isn't allowed any contact until whatever it is happens."
Vin slumped back into his chair and stared at the table.
Buck and Josiah looked at Chris, who shrugged. Nathan moved to sit by Vin.
"That's all. I'll let you know when the new guy is coming," Chris said dismissing them.
Everyone left but Vin and Nathan. Nathan put a hand to Vin's shoulder.
"I talked to Rain. If you can come by today, she can get you tested. You'll have the results in a few days."
"Thanks, Nathan. I appreciate it."
"You need anything, let me know. It's probably for the best." Nathan hesitated. "Ezra being gone, that is. Give you time to think things through."
Even though Nathan had given his support to Vin and Ezra, he still didn't think Ezra was the best choice for Vin. Here was more proof of that. When Vin needed Ezra the most, Ezra took off. Leaving seemed to be what the man did best.
Vin got up and headed back to his desk. He didn't know how he was going to make it with Ezra being gone and him not being able to even talk to him. He kicked himself for not going over to see Ezra and trying to explain. But he planned on being there when Ezra did get back and then he'd work on making things right between them again.
The End - for now
8/5/2004