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Learning to Improvise…
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Vin watched as Ezra locked the door behind Chris and Buck. He waited for the gambler to make his way back over, and join him on the bed. Ezra sat down, and Vin pulled him in close, hugging his lover to him. He raised one hand to gently encourage Ezra to lay his head on Vin’s shoulder, both of them resting against the headboard.Vin reveled in the moment of quiet companionship. Somehow being together, just the two of them, always seemed to make it easier to deal with the stress of their lives. Vin sighed softly, hoping it would work as well this time as it had in the past. He smiled when he felt Ezra relaxing in his arms. Looks like it still works.
"That went well." Ezra spoke, his tone contemplative, voice soft, as he snuggled in closer.
"Not bad." Vin agreed, running his fingers through Ezra’s hair in a steady, soothing gesture, encouraging his lover to let go of his left over tension.
"Josiah wanting to start over was not quite an option I’d realistically considered. It was in fact, a far better outcome than I’d anticipated." There was a touch of amazement in Ezra’s statement. "I had not expected him to be so…forgiving."
Vin snorted. "Weren’t nothing to forgive."
"Just the small fact that I would have shot and killed him." The sarcasm was heavy. "Nothing at all, really." Ezra lightly slapped Vin’s chest as a reprimand, but didn’t pull out of his arms or move away.
Vin put a finger against Ezra’s lips when he felt the gambler was about to say more. "Didn’t mean what you thought I meant." Vin shifted, pulling away slightly so he could make eye contact. He needed to make Ezra understand that he wasn’t placing all the blame on Josiah, and that he wasn’t holding a grudge. He was willing to let bygones be bygones, just so long as it didn’t happen again.
Vin took a moment to order the words in his head. He wanted to get this out right the first time. "A man should be grateful when someone points out the error o’ his ways, and keeps him from hurting someone else, even if it ain’t what he wants to hear. ‘Specially, when he don’t want to hear it. Took a lot ta get Josiah’s attention, Ez. Lookin’ down the barrel of a gun tends ta make a man sit up and take notice. I know ya think if you’d have spoke up sooner, told him everything you did today, all this coulda been avoided, but I ain’t so sure that’s the case."
Vin shook his head slightly. "Honestly, Ez, I’m not sure he ever would have listened any other way." With a small smile, Vin moved his fingers to caress Ezra’s cheek. "Looks ta me like he did some hard thinkin’ last night, ‘cause he finally had a reason to. He said he didn’t think you were at fault. So it’s safe ta say he finally understood what he did wrong."
Vin put one finger to Ezra’s lips keeping the gambler silent when he opened his mouth to speak. "I know it wasn’t all him. I do know that Ez. But it wasn’t all you either. Needin’ forgiveness says ya did somethin’ wrong…and I’m not so sure ya did. Way ya went ‘bout it might a been wrong, but it did need doin’. Wasn’t right to let him keep hurtin’ you, even though he didn’t mean to. You both…made a mistake. All there was left to do was make it right."
Ezra sighed softly, leaning into Vin’s touch when he moved his hand to cup Ezra’s face. Vin bent his head to place a light kiss on Ezra’s forehead. "Buck’s right. This coulda gone a lot o’ ways, and getting the chance to start over is probably the best one. No point in thinkin’ too hard on what didn’t happen, and just focus on what did."
Ezra chuckled, green eyes warm with affection, and respect. "Were you always this smart?"
"Yep." Vin smirked. "Jus’ took you awhile ta notice."
Ezra hugged him hard. "Thank you."
"What for?"
"Just being you." Ezra answered simply. He placed a soft, chaste kiss against Vin’s lips. "Without you, I could not have done this."
Vin studied Ezra’s face, looking for signs of lingering anxiety or anguish. Talking to Josiah and Buck had gotten a bit more intense than they had planned for. Vin had worried about the strain it placed on Ezra. Today was far more intense than they had intended for it to be.
"You okay? I mean, even with me, and Chris here, it got a bit rough for you. Sort a got to be more than we planned." Vin mentally grimaced at that understatement, but relaxed when Ezra laughed.
"I believe that has been true to form for us so far." Ezra shook his head, grinning. "Nothing ever goes quite the way we planned, but it always seems to work out for the best in spite of that. Having achieved such a positive outcome was worth the effort."
Vin grinned back, pleased that Ezra seemed to have recovered his balance. The gambler seemed totally at ease. Don’t think anything can keep him down for long. Wouldn’t have made it this long if he weren’t…resilient. Hah. Another Ezra word I figured out how ta use.
"Buck was bit of a surprise, huh?"
"Oh he was that." Ezra shook his head. "I never would have expected him to be so…accepting of our being together."
Vin felt bad that he’d ever doubted the lanky cowboy. Shoulda had a bit more faith than I did. Course given that Chris didn’t really do so well there for awhile, I s’pose I shouldn’t be too surprised I was shy a tellin’ Buck. Once bitten, twice shy sort o’ thing.
He sighed. "Guess that means we sold Buck short."
"Perhaps." Ezra conceded with a small tip of his head. "But, I don’t think he’s too disappointed. He seemed to understand our reluctance, and was not offended by it." Ezra cocked his head, his expression thoughtful. "He never did say, nor did we think to ask, what it was that gave us away."
Vin considered that, and briefly wondered if he should worry. They both tried not to make any overt display of their feelings, but something must have slipped through. Probably somethin’ little. Has ta be ‘cause it ain’t like I’ve up an’ kissed him on the boardwalk in front of God and everybody. Even though I’d like to someday.
"Chris picked up on stuff we were doin’ that we didn’t even think would give us away. Buck mighta done the same thing."
"An issue we need to look into?" Ezra raised an eyebrow.
Vin shook his head. "Don’t think so. If the others notice the same thing he did, what ever it was, I reckon they’ll ask us when they’re ready."
After a moment of thought, Ezra laughed gently, patting Vin’s chest. "You are probably correct. And broaching the subject will only encourage Buck."
Vin frowned. "Meaning?"
"You do realize that, if given any indication we are open to such conversation, Mr. Wilmington will not be at all shy about asking for details of our love-making. Prying into our preferences, and performance. Giving us advice."
"Oh hell." Vin rolled his eyes with a grimace. "Didn’t think o’ that. Bad enough he always wants ta share his stories." Vin shuddered having heard more than enough of the ladies man’s tales of conquest. Vin was glad he didn’t blush easily or several of Buck’s more graphic stories would have left him as red as Ezra’s favorite jacket.
"You wanna drink?" Vin could do with one. It would certainly make this day and all its revelations easier to handle. Maybe more than one. ‘Specially if it’s Ez’s scotch.
Ezra pursed his lips. "A libation would be most refreshing. Particularly in light of the past hour."
"Good." Vin was pleased they were back on the same page. Almost like he’s readin’ my mind. "Let’s get outta here."
"Are you sure?" Ezra looked pointedly at Vin’s leg.
Vin rolled his eyes. "Ain’t hurt that bad. ‘Sides, I been cooped up in here all day, Ez." Vin managed to keep the whine out of his voice. He didn’t want to sound like a kid pitching a fit. "I was good, damn it. Now, I want out." And the closer I get ta Ez’s room the better. Missed that feather bed.
Ezra smirked, holding both hands in front of him palms out as a sign of surrender. "You must be feeling better."
Vin eyed his lover suspiciously. "This mean I can leave?" He wouldn’t put it past Ezra to try distracting him, or refuse to let him leave if he thought it would be better for Vin to stay put.
Ezra shrugged one shoulder. "I don’t see why not." He grinned, dimples flashing. "Mr. Jackson isn’t here to refuse you. And, as you have already stated, he believes us to be unqualified to render a medical decision." Ezra’s innocent look was back. "In my ignorance, I can hardly be blamed for believing you healthy enough to go to the saloon, enjoy a glass of superb scotch, and a good meal amid the company of friends."
Vin slapped his good leg. "Well, hot damn, then. Let’s get outta here while the getting is good."
Ezra stood up and offered Vin his hand. He helped Vin stand, bracing him until he got his balance settled. His leg hurt, and felt stiff, but it wasn’t anything he couldn’t handle. With Ezra walking at his side, adding support, Vin found he could limp along rather effectively.
Outside he stopped to take a deep breath of fresh air, enjoying being free of four walls and moving more or less under his own power. Ezra just smiled, and waved a hand toward the saloon. "Shall we, Mr. Tanner?"
"We shall, Mr. Standish."
By the time they made it to the saloon Vin was leaning on Ezra less, but his limp was more pronounced as his wounded leg let him know it objected to this activity. They stepped inside and headed for their usual table where Chris and Buck were already seated.
Buck was sitting across the table from Chris, and looked up when the doors swung open. He greeted them with all his usual enthusiasm. Chris just tipped his head. He shoved a chair next to him away from the table with his foot, and gave a pointed look at Vin.
Vin sat down stiffly. He didn’t mind taking weight off his bad leg. It felt good to move, and work out some of the kinks, but he knew not to push it if he didn’t have to. Ezra patted his shoulder as he left the table and headed to the bar. He came back with a bottle and two glasses, taking the seat next to Vin, which coincidently was also next to Buck.
Vin nodded. Don’t know if they planned that, but it works well. Means Josiah can’t sit next ta Ezra when he gets off patrol and joins up with us. Know he means well, and has good intentions, but a little space between him and Ezra right now is probably a good thing. Keep ‘em headed on the right track.
Ezra poured a shot for himself, and then one for Vin. Chris held out his glass in a silent request for a drink. Ezra arched an eyebrow, but filled Chris’ glass without further comment. Buck stared, clearly dumbfounded that Ezra had shared anything with Chris.
Vin ducked his head to hide his smile. Wonder if he’s gonna ask?
"Hey, Ez?"
Vin’s smile grew to a grin. Guess he’s gonna ask.
"Yes, Mr. Wilmington?"
"Can I have a snort o’ that fancy whiskey o’ yours, too?"Ezra glared at him. "This is not ‘fancy whiskey’, you uncouth heathen." Ezra held up the bottle for emphasis. "This is aged, single-malt scotch. A veritable gift from God."
"That a no?" Buck asked with a grin, totally unrepentant.
Ezra grinned back, gold pre-molar flashing for just a moment. "No." He filled Buck’s shot glass as well. "Perhaps once you have had the opportunity to refine your palate, you will come to appreciate this ambrosia for it’s true worth."Buck shook his head and laughed, looking skeptical. He took a sip, and his eyebrows rose. He took another. "Nice. Real nice."
Ezra tipped his head in acknowledgement of the compliment, and recorked the bottle. Vin smiled slightly at the faint look of disappointment on Chris’ face. Ez might be willin’ ta share one drink, but he ain’t gonna give ‘em the whole bottle. That thought didn’t bother the tracker much. Stuff costs too much ta just give it away. And it’s awfully hard ta come by out here. This way there’ll some for tomorrow.
Ezra reached into his pocket and with drew a deck of cards. He tapped them once on the table. "A friendly game while we wait for the others?"
"Sure, Ez."
Ezra had only just begun to deal when JD wondered in. Vin noted he didn’t look any worse for wear for having worked all night. Wonder if he caught a nap. Had to have. Only one who o’ us who looks that fresh after being awake all night is Ezra.
"Hi guys."
"Hey kid."
"JD."
"Mr. Dunne."
JD slid into the chair next to Buck. "Just saw Nate riding back in. Looks beat. Was smiling though, so I’m guessing things went okay. Sure hope so. Vin are you supposed to up and about? I mean, it’s good to see you getting around. Must be feelin’ better then, huh? Can’t really blame you for not wanting to hang out at the boarding house. I’d go nuts there all by myself too. But you know Nate ain’t gonna think to much of that idea." JD made a face. "He’ll probably bring more of that nasty tea with him."
JD had spoken with his usual rapid-fire delivery causing the rest of them to share a look of amusement. Vin sometimes found himself wondering if JD managed to breathe at all. Ez can talk a lot, but he spaces his words better. I keep expecting JD to start gasping like a drowning man.
Nate showed up even before they’d finished the first hand. He sat down tiredly, shooting Vin a dirty look. "You shouldn’t be walkin’ around."
Vin gave Nathan a dirty look of his own. "I’m fine, Nate."
"Oh sure you are." Nathan snorted, his disbelief ringing through loud and clear.
"How are the Cavanaugh’s?" Buck asked, redirecting the conversation. Ezra gathered up the cards, preparing to shuffle and deal again, but Vin noticed his attention, like everyone else’s was on Nathan.
"Missus is doin’ just fine." Nathan smiled, white teeth flashing brightly, some of his obvious exhaustion lifting a bit. "Baby is a fighter. Still gonna be tough, but it looks like he just might make it. Will know more in a few days." Nate puffed out his chest ever so slightly. "Named him Nathan. After me."
"Way ta go, Nate." Buck slapped him on the shoulder. JD seconded that enthusiastic endorsement.
Everyone seemed to breath a bit easier, relieved by the cautious but still good news. Vin patted Ezra leg under the table, giving his thigh a gentle squeeze. One less thing ta worry about. Know he would be mighty upset if that little boy died.
Nathan redirected his attention to Vin. Dark eyes assessed him sharply. "You feelin’ all right?"
Vin rolled his eyes. He could appreciate the other man’s concern and dedication, but it got wearing. "I said I was fine."
Nathan’s eyes narrowed slightly, studying Vin, searching for the truth. He sat back and relaxed when he realized Vin hadn’t lied. He smiled slightly, his demeanor apologetic. "Jus’ want to make sure you’re okay, is all."
Vin nodded accepting both the reason and the apology. It’s why I let ya poke and prod me, and drink yer stinky teas. I know ya mean well. Wouldn’t put up with it otherwise.
Nathan yawned widely, belatedly covering his mouth with his hand. "Might want ta get some sleep there, Nate." Buck observed. "Ya look done in."
Nathan nodded, rubbing his eyes. "I will. After I check Vin’s leg."
"It’ll keep, Nate." Chris said softly, his dark blue eyes sizing up the healer. "You been working all night, and all of today. Most of yesterday too. Buck’s right. You should get some rest, maybe a bit to eat too."
"But that bandage really should be changed, and—"
"That task has already been completed, Mr. Jackson." Ezra interjected.
Nathan’s eyes narrowed as he looked toward the gambler. Ezra calmly looked back, placidly shuffling his cards. "You wanna tell me that again?" Nathan asked quietly.
"You did tell Mr. Tanner last night that you wanted to change his bandage today, did you not?" Ezra raised an eyebrow. "I assumed you intended to utilize the cloth you left on Mr. Larabee’s dresser for just that purpose. Since you were not sure of when you might return, I thought it prudent to follow through with the course of treatment you had indicated."
Aw hell. Vin waited to see if Nathan would explode. He don’t like other people treaded on what he thinks is his turf. But hell, Ez did as good a job as Nate would have. Probably shouldn’t say that last bit out loud…ever. Vin gave Nathan a quick once over. He didn’t look pleased, but nor was he as upset as Vin thought he might be
"Wound look okay?" Nathan asked, his tone cool.
"In my opinion…yes." Ezra answered, green eyes never wavering from where they met dark brown. "The wound appears to be healing cleanly. I saw no discoloration or redness. There was no undo swelling, or puss that would indicate infection. Nor does Mr. Tanner have a fever." Ezra bowed his head slightly. "A testament to your abilities as a healer, Mr. Jackson."
Nathan nodded slowly, evidently satisfied, if not totally happy. He sent a look toward Vin. "I’ll check on you tomorrow then." He wagged his finger at the tracker. "Jus’ ‘cause I ain’t pushin’ this don’t mean you need to be runnin’ all over town now, ya hear? I expect you to show some good sense and rest that leg."
Vin nodded, his lips quirking upward in a half-smile. He had no intention of running around town. The furthest he planned to go was upstairs to Ezra’s bed, but he certainly wasn’t going to tell Nathan that.
"We’ll ride herd on him, Nate." Chris stated. There was no mistaking the promise in his voice. "You go get some rest." That was a softly delivered order.
Nathan pushed himself out of his chair with noticeable effort. "I’ll be in the clinic if anyone needs me."
"Sleep well, Nate." Four voices chorused. A fifth called out, "Good night, Mr. Jackson."
The friendly poker game continued until Josiah joined them a little later. Vin noticed Ezra stiffen slightly when the big man stepped through the door, but he didn’t think the others saw it. Vin laid his hand on Ezra’s thigh, and squeezed once. He tried to relay through that simple gesture that Ezra shouldn’t worry. Things are gonna be different from here on out. We’ll make sure of it.
Ezra dropped a hand under the table, his fingers ghosting across Vin’s knuckles in acknowledgement, letting Vin know he’d received the message. He uncorked the Scotch and casually poured himself another shot. Ezra downed the drink in one smooth, long swallow.
Reckon a little liquid courage won’t hurt. Vin wouldn’t mind another shot for himself, but decided not to ask. Sharin’ his liquor was one o’ those things Chris noticed. No point in drawin’ attention to it with JD and Josiah.
The big man stepped toward their table. He hesitated for just a second before taking the chair Nathan had vacated earlier. Vin knew the former preacher realized the seating arrangement might well be deliberate to keep him arms length from Ezra, but to his credit he didn’t seem offended or insulted. Josiah just nodded his understanding toward Buck and Chris. He seemed almost reluctant to make eye contact with Vin. Vin smiled slightly, silently offering his welcome, and saw Ezra do the same.
"Hello, brothers." Josiah offered his usual greeting as he sat down.
Chris and Vin both just nodded. Buck and JD answered him with a loud call of ‘Josiah’. Ezra tipped his head. "Mr. Sanchez."
"How was your patrol?" Buck asked even as he poured a shot from his bottle to offer Josiah.
"Quiet." Josiah answered, accepting the glass with a grateful look. "Things seem to be settling down. Most of the ranchers were relieved to hear the rustlers have been taken care of."
Chris nodded. "Be nice ta have things stay quiet awhile."
"Yeah, the ladies have been missin’ ole Buck." The lanky cowboy grinned widely, brushing his moustache with thumb and forefinger. "Need some time ta get myself reacquainted with the local lovelies."
JD rolled his eyes, and playfully shoved Buck’s shoulder. "Don’t know about the ladies, but I don’t think your neighbors missed hearin’ ya snore, that’s for sure."
Buck retaliated by trying to knock of JD hat. JD successfully dodged his attempt. "I don’t snore." Buck insisted, giving JD a dark look. Vin wasn’t sure if the look was for the comment, or the successful dodge.
Vin shared a look with Chris. "He really think that?" Vin asked in a stage whisper, eyes twinkling with humor. "I thought it was two grizzlies fighting ta the death the first night we were on the trail together."
"Now don’t you start." Buck ordered, shaking his finger at Vin. "I hear enough o’ that from Chris. You boys are jus’ light sleepers."
Chris raised his eyebrows. "Buck, I’ve slept through artillery fire that was quieter than you are."
JD laughed. "See? Told you so."
Ezra shook his head, a small grin beginning. "Mr. Wilmington, I must concur with Mr. Larabee, Mr. Tanner and Mr. Dunne." Ezra paused for a beat. "I’ve heard quieter fright trains."
Buck looked toward Josiah, the only one who hadn’t spoken up yet. "What about you?"
Josiah sipped his drink, and slowly returned it to the table before answering. "I would have to say that I disagree, brother." Buck grinned triumphantly, until Josiah’s next statement. The big man smiled enigmatically before speaking again. "You are louder than any of the comparisons they made. I’d liken it more to being caught in the middle of a herd of stampeding buffalo."
Buck sniffed and made a dismissive motion with his hand. "You boys are just jealous."
"Of what, pray tell?" Ezra asked sending a sly wink toward the others, including Josiah. Vin could almost see the ex-preacher relax at being included in that gesture. "You’re ability to frighten wildlife for ten miles or more."
Buck puffed out his chest. "My animal magnetism. My prowess with the fairer sex."
Chris snorted, a faint smile playing about his lips. "Prowess? You even know what that means?"
The conversation continued in a light-hearted fashion, with a lot of good-natured teasing, which carried on even while they ate. Vin could almost feel them slipping back into a groove of normal behavior. The only off note was a slightly more cordial, polite attitude that Josiah maintained with Ezra.
It wasn’t glaringly obvious, but Vin could tell the older man was far more attentive than he’d been in the past. Josiah was feeling his way along, and Ezra was offering subtle encouragement. A nod, a smile, a little tease here and there, all helped put Josiah at ease, and let him know exactly where Ezra’s comfort level fell.
Vin decided this new interaction might not be all bad. Bit like dancing. Gotta work together or ya end up on the floor. Josiah’s payin’ attention. And tryin’ ta stick to his word. Long as he keeps tryin’ we’re good.
Vin felt Ezra’s hand pat his leg, and glanced over in time to catch a small smile sent his way. He knew his lover knew what he was thinking. Vin smiled shyly. There were occasionally disadvantages to having a lover who could read him so well, but this wasn’t one of them.
JD stood up and stretched. "I’ll see you guys later. Need ta get back to the jail."
Buck stood as well. "I’ll keep ya company kid." The lanky cowboy threw one arm over JD’s shoulder in a brotherly gesture, and walked out with him.
The saloon had been unusually quiet all evening, with only the peacekeepers and one or two others occupying the normally busy establishment. Vin rather enjoyed the quiet atmosphere of the large, nearly empty room. It suited him just fine.
Chris looked toward Ezra. "You know you have the midnight shift?"
Ezra tipped his head. "I was aware of that fact, Mr. Larabee."
"You might want to consider getting some sleep."
Ezra smirked. "I had intended to do just that. All in due time."
Chris raised an eyebrow at Vin. "You need help getting back to the boarding house?"
Vin shook his head. Like I’m going back! Hah! "I’ll sit here for a bit, Cowboy. Ain’t ready ta turn in yet."
"Suit yourself." Chris bid them a good night and sauntered out, leaving Ezra, Josiah and Vin alone at the table.
Josiah rubbed one hand over his face. He looked tired, and Vin realized the older man had probably not slept well the night before. Josiah hesitated a moment, almost as if he wished to say something, but just shook his head instead, looking down at the table.
"Mr. Sanchez?" Ezra called softly.
"Yes, Ezra?" Josiah answered, eyes still downcast.
"I find myself in need of a favor."
Josiah looked up at the gambler in surprise, and then with a trace of eagerness. "Something I can help you with, Ezra?"
Ezra smiled. "Indeed. The children are still working on some of the finer points of geography. I was wondering if you might be free tomorrow afternoon to offer them a different perspective on some of the many locales you have had the opportunity to visit. I am aware that you have traveled extensively, and I believe they would benefit from hearing about the different places you have seen."
Josiah smiled widely, obviously pleased with the invitation. To Vin’s knowledge the only other member of their group to help out with the lessons Ezra gave had been JD. "I believe I can arrange that. It would be an honor to assist in teaching the little ones."
"Very well then. Tomorrow…say mid-afternoon?"
"That would be fine." Josiah stood up. "If you boys will excuse me, I believe I’ll turn in."
"Sleep well, Mr. Sanchez."
"G’night, Josiah."
Now alone at the table, and the nearly empty Vin smiled warmly at his lover. "Was nice what you did just now."
Ezra shrugged one shoulder, but smiled softly. "Thank you."
Vin stretched. "You ready ta turn in?"
Green-eyes twinkled. "More than ready."
Vin grinned. He knew what that look meant. Sleep might be on the agenda, but not right away. He glanced around the saloon, wondering if anyone would notice if he limped up the main stairs. He really didn’t feel like bothering with going outside and up the back stairs. To his delight, the only other customer left a moment after Josiah had, leaving just the two of them in the saloon. Three counting Inez.
Ezra called out to Inez. "Why don’t you head on home, Miss Recillos? It is only Mr. Tanner in myself who remain. I can close up for you tonight."
"Thank you, Senior Standish." The pretty Mexican woman smiled at him. "It would be nice to head home early for a change." She shook her finger at him before she left, her expression stern. "You make sure the bar is clean, Senior."
Ezra arched an eyebrow. "Yes, Ma’am."
Vin was about to help Ezra with the clean up, but the gambler held up a hand. "I can take care of this. Your time would be better spent ascending to my room to await my arrival."
Vin grinned wolfishly, liking the way that sounded. "A plan. I like that."
Ezra matched his grin, with a hungry, lusty look. "Yes, indeed. And with any luck it will work out like all our other plans…a great deal better than we expected."
THE END
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