Willow 03 (2 of 3): Pursuant

"Ezra?.." Vin tapped the door again, leaning close in an attempt to hear what was happening on the other side of the wooden panel. He huffed and knocked louder. "Ez? C'mon. Lemme in."

Vin held fast through a long stretch where he knew he was being ignored. Finally he resorted to wheedling.

"I'm here ta help ya. Know ya need it. Or I could call Nate. And we both know how stubborn he can get when told someone's a hurtin…"

Vin didn't have to say more. The door was wrenched open to reveal Ezra, shaking slightly, sheen of sweat beading the unnaturally pale skin. It made his heart wrench, suffocating fear rising in his chest. The teasing words and tone were banished as he pushed determinedly into the room.

"Dammit Ez! Look at ya…"

At the weary sigh in response he clomped his mouth shut. Probably not what Ezra was needing most at the moment. Vin let his breath out in a long stream. Batting Ezra's attempts at composure aside he crowded close to the tremoring form, wrapping his hands around hunching shoulders.

"Sorry, Ez," he said quietly. "Now," he licked his lips, smiling as he ignored the heat coming off Ezra to assault him in an attempt at fraternal reassurance, "jus' tell me where it hurts so I can help, 'k?"

"You are certain I need assistance because?" Ezra's lilt was gritty.

Vin snorted. "The way yer nearly falling over for starters. That you're sweating in your shirtsleeves… that when I arrived ta the saloon a knot a cowboys were hightailing it outta here… that I saw ya do your best ta climb the stairs with your usual ease but not quite managing." His tone had started out sharp but funneled into soft concern as he listed the reasons.

Ezra smiled weakly. "Ah. Is that All?" Green eyes closed, the man giving into the pain and the fatigue brought about by it. Dark curls shifted when his head bobbed. "Bed… get me to the bed."

Vin couldn't answer. There was no moisture in his mouth to do such, ideas of Ezra and bed stealing his ration for the moment. Instead he simply complied, rounding his hands to cup elbows in a firm hold, shuffling Ezra backwards to approach the feather mattress. Just before he let go to allow Ezra to fall down onto it greens snapped open, frantic and wild, hands flailing to grip his bandana tightly.

Instinctual answer took over and Vin surged his arms around Ezra in a fierce bear hug, locking them just above the lean waist. They stood for a long moment, ragged breath puffing at his ear eventually slowing back to normal. Vin loosened his hold a fraction, caressing lightly over the quivering muscles in the tense back.

"Ez?" His voice was husky, ripe with invitation and full of all the hot and murky thoughts that had flickered to life as they stood wrapped about one another. Vin cleared his throat. "Ez?" he repeated, glad it sounded a mite steadier - a mite less like a street hussy would purr.

"On my stomach if you please, Vin." Ezra wasn't even attempting to lilt or pretend any longer, drawl tight through clenched teeth.

He acquiesced without question, turning Ezra as he kept his arms a loose frame of support around the muscled body. Quick hands splayed onto the mattress and he helped his friend ease down. Once Ezra was settled Vin took a single step back from the bed, eyes squinting in his tilting head as he tried to discern what the problem was.

"Ya sure that's comfy Ez?" Vin wasn't convinced. Black booted feet were toed into the ground, legs bent in an L away from the torso now lying flat on the mattress, Ezra's face planted in the colorful quilt.

"I assure you… this is the best I've felt since those miserable cretins got their bright idea." The stilted tones were muffled, syllables bleeding into one another as they tried to escape from between Ezra and the absorbing bedding.

Vin rocked back and forth, not quite sure what to do from here. He was still steadfastly trying to disregard the shapely display, ignoring the pictures and whispers his traitorous imagination was serving up to add to his unbalance as he stared at the firm ass, perfect and tempting, perched on the corner of the bed. He kept trying to remind himself 'talk first, talk first…'

An aberration jolted him from his amorous musings, thin spikes of light brown peppering the black fabric stretched taut over the two enticing globes. Vin narrowed his gaze then cursed.

"Damn, Ez… damn."

"Mesquite I do believe, Vin. Though I have already called it considerably worse than 'damn' since sitting upon it."

Vin nodded, reaching out to pat Ezra's lower back with his hand, readying them both for further contact. "Best get started on it… sooner those are gone, sooner you'll feel better." His voice was deceptively, purposefully mild. He lowered smoothly onto his haunches, now eye level with Ezra's ass, body curled between the open legs.

Vin paused, clenching his fists then bit his lip, tensing all his muscles in a concerted bunch then releasing them in an attempt to vent his mounting frustrations without howling. With that accomplished but feeling no better he began the delicate chore, employing a careful, deft touch he started removing the painful thorns. He started with Ezra's left cheek then traveled on, mapping the fabric with untrammeled thoroughness to be sure he got them all dislodged.

It was silent while he worked, Ezra's breath catching at times to be held then released with a tight hiss, but the man never complained. Vin didn't want to speak. Too much was on the tip of his tongue to suggest could happen next that he figured would be considered more than inappropriate. One by one the barbs were plucked free, shucked to fall harmlessly on the floor. Vin took his time; part wanting to be sure he got them all; part wanting to be here touching Ezra this way as long as he could. When his task was complete he left his hands resting, one palm rounded over each of the firm ass cheeks. It never occurred to him to peel them off and step away.

More quiet moments passed, Vin kneeling on the floor, fingers unconsciously starting a massage of the warm flesh beneath them, Ezra's breathing deep and rhythmic in answer. He snatched his hands away when the body under him shifted to gain a more comfortable position on the bed, feeling the heat of embarrassment warring with attraction flush through him.

Ezra's knee bent and the man clamored up the bed, then he was bending to press his forehead into the mattress with a grunt of pain.

Vin shot to his feet, stamping them absently to be rid of the prickling tingles as blood started flowing without restriction to his toes.

"Where?" His voice was harsher than he intended, brittled from his worry and continuing efforts to rein in his desires.

When he got no answer save for more labored breathing Vin clucked his tongue and followed Ezra right onto the bed. He opened his legs to straddle Ezra's, firmly pushing his friend back onto the soft surface to lie flat. Without thinking on it overly he burrowed his hands under Ezra, fumbling with the leather belt and trouser fastenings. A deep breath and a silent prayer - of thanks and of strength - then Vin eased the pants and underclothes down to bunch just under the rising crest of the pale globes.

Vin blinked at the sight, raw desire tempered with cringing empathy from the multitude of red spots marring the tender flesh. He swallowed once, then twice.

"Vin?"

The muted query was laced with enough apprehension to have him regretting his awestruck silence.

Vin wrapped his hand around Ezra's knee, squeezing then letting go. "Yeah, Ez, still here. Jus' trying to decide where ta start."

Low chuckling was his answer, bringing him back closer to center.

"Whatever, wherever it takes. I'm well ready to be rid of them…all of them… wherever it takes, Vin." Ezra's voice was still lanced with pain, shivery with warbles.

Vin bobbed his head. "Okay, Ez." The trembling voice started him back to his task, determined to help and relieve his friend. The trust and willingness Ezra imparted in being willing to allow him to help in such a private way warmed him, steadied him.

His hands were gentle explorers, each finger dusting over the pale skin with delicate care. Vin worked his way from jutting hip then over and across, no fraction of the pale silk left untouched. As he bumped over thorns stubbornly trying to remain fast he'd hone in, working them loose with sure extraction, massaging where they'd abused before moving in further pursuit.

Ezra's sighs of relief filled the room, encouraging Vin as he worked. He let his fingers lead on, following them without question as they journeyed the battered, rounded offerings. He didn't even hesitate to gently split the deep seam, swiping down either side with a confident touch, eyes greedy and focused as he sought.

Vin didn't pause to consider himself when it was clear no more thorns were likely to be found. Didn't stop his hands when they kneaded deep into the tantalizing flesh. He didn't prevent himself from skimming down the muscled legs to tug boots loose, didn't abort when they surged right back up to grab the slouching pants and pull those off as well.

Using the same exacting treatment fingers mapped each leg, swirling into the dimpled hollow behind knees, tracing muscle lines and teasing through the fine hair, memorizing each detail as his pads glided along. When mere touch wasn't enough Vin dipped close, eyes drifting shut as he tasted the pale feast with a lapping tongue.

Sighs of relief turned to breathy moans and insistent grunts and Vin journeyed on.

Thigh bloomed into curving lusciousness and Vin couldn't resist. He grazed over the sphere, kissing the angry flesh, laving the red welts with his flattened tongue then thinning to flickers - offerings of comfort and soothing. Not even a hair's breadth was overlooked, the whole of the bruised area patiently tended. His ministrations led him to the small of Ezra's back and Vin hovered here, nibbling gently at the skin, tongue lancing down into the delta of the secretive, enticing cleft.

Of their own volition his hands assayed up Ezra's legs, molding the strong forms as they bore steadily to the apex. When they arrived Vin planted a last sure kiss before lifting away. Fingers took over, dappling over each mound as they moved intently to open Ezra to his needy gaze.

Fascination, pique aroused from his discovery of the afternoon and desire were answered within him when he spread the full cheeks. Vin was almost breathless, his unsteady gasps moist huffs clouding over Ezra's skin. His continuing response and encouragement was in Ezra's own ragged breathing, muffled groans and jagged spikes of air propelling him on.

Vin placed his finger at the rosy puckering, testing against it with a push. It gave to his insistence, but the progress was awkward so he stilled, uncertain of discomfort and not wanting there to be any. Instead he lowered again, eyes drooping shut. He swallowed once then banished a trickle of hesitation, lips closing to seal over this most vulnerable delicacy Ezra was trusting him with.

When his tongue danced to probe the entrance Ezra's hips jerked, jostling him where he lay pillowed on the firm buttocks. Vin licked again, grinning at the power of his gentle assault and the muffled curse filled with heat that drawled over him. One last kiss then Vin needed more, could deny the throbbing persistence constricted in his buckskins no longer.

He flopped onto the bed, hands furious, grappling with his gunbelt, the tie holding his mare's leg secure to his thigh. Those were tossed carelessly onto the floor then he ripped at the fastenings on his pants, buttons popping loose of the holdings. A wrench of his hips to the right; his hand closing about his erection, the other parting his fly so it opened to a generous V then he was free.

Vin clamped his hand around Ezra's upper arm, tugging to drag the man closer. The dark head lifted, green eyes meeting his as they both shifted, hazed with ardor matching the power of his. He shimmied towards Ezra, the compact body boosting then sliding over his.

Steel hard heat twitched along his and Vin's head stabbed into the mattress, his back arching, heels dug in as his body reacted to the dizzying myriad of new sensations. He growled, hands hooking around Ezra's hips with clawing urgency. His shoulders were gripped, their instinctive thrusts strengthened, deepened when the pale beauty blanketing him reared away from him in an elegant, straining bow. Vin pulled and pulled at his lover's pelvis, murmured low in his throat, both incentive to maintain the frenzied pace. His own jerked off the bed in response, the two finding rough, pounding cadence as they rode quickly towards completion.

Vin reached up to tangle a hand through the thick chestnut curls, grasping and guiding Ezra's face so he could meet the parted lips with his. Their first kiss was explosive; mouths voracious, tongues twining, teeth knocking as they surged. He grunted into the delicious mouth, feet sliding to brace wide against the mattress, then three more deep ruts and he came, whole body wracking with the intense pleasure. Vin swore his skin unsheathed, permitting the whole of him to break apart and disintegrate into the dry evening air.

Awareness eventually settled again, reasserting to bring him back to the present. Ezra still lay atop him, soft curls tucked under his chin. His left hand was being held, their fingers woven together tightly, his right still knotted in the silky hair. He could feel Ezra's heart beating, the dancing rhythm slowing and slowing, pacing his own decline from ecstasy. Their breathing, charged and erratic moments before was now eased, gentling in matching pulls and exhalations. Ezra's, warm and a trace wet, huffed at his neck, calming and to him as reverent a sound he could imagine. Vin let his eyes drift closed and he sunk further, boneless, into the bed.

He should feel ridiculous, perhaps, strewn as he was on the bed. His head was almost off the side, legs open with one boot dangling so the toe hit the floor, the other cupped around the end of the mattress. He was fully clothed save for his now sated groin, where Ezra was naked from the waist down, the fine cotton shirt still buttoned to the top, string tie a wisp of dignity trying to hold intact.

It felt too damn good to be anything like ridiculous.

It was contentment and fulfillment. It was that deep down oh yeah that made him feel like everything was singing, alive and tingling yet tempered with the luxurious peace of finally having the niggling, persistent want of Ezra answered.

Vin chuckled. It wasn't like anyone could see them to comment on how they looked, unbraced and half off the bed.

Ezra stirred in his hold, sleepy eyes opening to his when the heavy head lifted from its position against his chest. Vin smiled, tracing the handsome face with his fingers, walking the curve of the smile he received in answer.

A brow perked. "You are amused?"

Vin grinned. "Yeah."

The brow stayed arched and he laughed again, pulling Ezra close, demanding a kiss with seeking lips. The response was immediate and lavish. They kissed until he had no breath then moved a span away. Vin spun them, depositing Ezra onto the bed, careful to hold a hip so his lover didn't roll onto the tender bottom. He sighed, the sound easily transmitting his satisfaction, then snuggled closer.

He let his fingers touch and tease as he elaborated. "Amused and happy and feeling so damn good." Vin leaned in to dust kisses over Ezra's relaxed face. "Wondering too what took me so long ta finally put together alla what I've been thinking on without quit here lately… you being always on my mind and me always wanting ya around, needing ya there with me… not realizing just how much more I really was wanting and needing from ya." He pulled away so their eyes could meet, blues threaded with seriousness. "But I know it now. Don't plan ta see it any different from here on out either. Glad it's the same for you."

Vin paused then bit his lip, unable to stop himself from adding, "Ain't it?"

Green eyes crinkled with delight, warm and open, shimmering with emotion plain for him to see. Paralleling contentment and needs met; sparks of uncertainly just like his own; love.

It stole his breath and the last remnants of the guard about his heart. Vin laughed, the sound low and easy, full of invitation and rekindling need. They jostled on the bed, his leg bending to nudge underneath Ezra, hand wrapping around the exposed hip to caress down. At this action his lover's eyes cringed then closed, a sharp intake of breath his jolting reminder.

"Damn, sorry Ez…" Vin quickly removed his hand, swiping the shirttail away as well so nothing abrasive was in contact with the suffering skin. He pulled Ezra close, rolling them so the man was once again lying atop him. He nibbled at the pale neck. "Sorry," he repeated softly. "Forgot."

Ezra's breath was already evenly keeled, helping the credence of the calmly spoken answer. "Quite all right. I had forgotten myself, truth be told."

The southern drawl was warm and slow, sensuous enough to make him shiver, reassuring enough to settle his worry. A kiss was pressed to his cheek then they subsided into easy silence again, enjoying their newfound intimacy, the afterglow and their proximity.

Finally Vin roused himself, a question perking that warranted answering. He trailed his hand up into the striped shirt to dust along warm flesh, feeling the nubs of Ezra's spine. He tilted is head and kissed the crown of hair at his chin then cleared his throat.

"How'd ya come ta sit on a mesquite branch Ez?"

Dark muttering followed his query, filled with curses and hoped for blights. Ezra's head rose to prop on a leveled hand and he turned to meet clouded green eyes.

"Just another imbecilic retaliation from loathsome cowhands who accused me of cheating them out of their hard earned money." Ezra grimaced. "They were certain I had employed sleight of hand to best them - which of course was wholly unnecessary. Even if I did resort to stacking the deck or hiding cards it would have been effort wasted when opposing such idiots." A brow hitched, wry smile pulling his face. "My explanation of this circumstance was enough to drive them from the saloon, but evidently not enough to appease their coarse sensibilities that the matter had been satisfactorily addressed."

Vin nodded. "I got back from my ride in time ta knock into 'em coming outta the saloon, could see from there how hard getting up ta your room was on ya. Didn't bother going after them even though I figured they were likely part of your trouble. I was so worried about ya I didn't pay 'em any mind, just came on up here ta check on ya."

Ezra smiled, face aglow from his admission of concern.

"I am genuinely elated you did such, good Sir." Greens twinkled. "So you had a good jaunt then? Exorcised your pestering demons?

He grinned back, easily following the turn in conversation. Earlier that day he'd put Ezra off, saying he needed to go for a ride, get in some thinking. He hadn't wanted to leave the man's company but he also couldn't think worth a damn with Ezra around, so he'd forced his leave with a made up excuse. He was glad he'd done it - glad he'd gotten introduced with vivid clarity to just what more he'd been wanting from Ezra as well, even if he did regret having spied on Buck and Chris.

Vin dismissed the twinge of guilt. He didn't foresee either of them holding it against him and he sure couldn't deny the benefit he'd gained from seeing them. He tightened his hold. "Oh, I'd say I figured it alright. Figured it good."

Ezra turned to him and they kissed, long and sound. When they moved apart he hummed unconsciously, a throaty sound of pleasure that had Ezra grinning wide. Soon they were kissing again.

It all felt so good and so right. The smell of Ezra was heady, the taste exquisite, the feel of the strength and hardness against his perfect, fitting to him as if exactly made with him in mind. Vin's hands started roving then he brought them up short, turning aside to stall the kiss as well. Ezra grunted in denial and he chuckled, lifting a finger to press over the pouting, seeking lips.

"Want ta hear the rest a how ya got hurt."

Ezra rolled his eyes. "Oh yes… that." The word was spat out with distaste. He huffed. "I had left the saloon to meet JD and Nathan for lunch at the hotel and when I returned they were waiting."

"The guys who accused ya of cheating?" Vin didn't think Ezra would be referring to anyone else, but it never hurt to be sure.

"Yes. Those gentlemen." It was clear from his inflection that Ezra considered them anything but. "My wariness at their presence from the nasty departure of earlier was enough to have my attention focused on their persons more than my environs. An unfortunate but unavoidable situation, to be certain." Ezra waved a hand through the air before settling it back on Vin's chest. "Anyway, they invited me to deal a game - making amends or some nonsense to their telling - and when I sat in my accustomed chair I was met with their malicious, juvenile surprise."

"Bastards…" Vin peppered kisses down Ezra's jaw then chewed on the stubbled chin. "Sorry love," he whispered softly.

"I did not satisfy them with so much as a yelp," Ezra's voice was proud, confident and a touch spiteful. "I dealt them their damnable requested game, took them for all they were worth then beat a hasty, if somewhat awkward, retreat."

Ezra's tongue licked over his lips and he opened them, meeting the hungry kiss with matching appetite. When oxygen was eventually required eyes met his, sparkling like melted frost on winter wheat.

"The result was more than worth the temporary discomfort."

Vin bobbed his head, his hand resuming its idle up and down Ezra's back. "Yeah, always good ta teach miscreants like that a lesson." They grinned at his use of Ezra's word. He raised a brow. "Jus' so long as they know not ta fuck with ya anymore." Vin narrowed his gaze, blue eyes flinting and hardening. "They do, don't they?"

Another kiss was his answer, relieving the short bout of protective anger. More kisses followed the first, a hand trailing without cease to comb through his hair. Between the kisses came his answer.

"Oh, I assured them of the dire consequences that would befall them should they dare harass me further… they got the message… Josiah was kind enough to escort them from town as well upon my request… but that wasn't what I was talking about."

"Hmm?" Vin's eyes fluttered open to study his mate.

Ezra chuckled. "The result I was alluding to was this." He grinned, hand sweeping over their tangled bodies. "Your attentive care to my ails. At last knowing the feel of your touch, having it turn into the more I'd come to realize I yearned for but never hoped could be." The honeyed tones sobered, green eyes shimmering. "Hearing you calling me love and knowing I could believe it. Being able to say I love you in return."

Vin nodded, recovering from speechlessness enough to breathe, "Oh."

A delighted brow arched at him, curling grin punishing in affectionate mirth. He rolled his eyes, thinking about making fun of Buck for that exact reaction only a few hours ago. No wonder the man had stood dumbfounded. To make up for his decided lack of anything better to say Vin tightened his arms, dragging Ezra close for a long kiss.

When they separated he allowed only enough space to breathe, feathering the entire of Ezra's handsome face with kisses, heating the pale skin with his tongue. "Love ya too, Ez," he murmured somewhere between the tender where nose sweeps down to cheek and the faintly stubbled jawline.

They held each other close, the longing and questions that had lived within Vin for so long now reduced to nothing, replaced with a gentle, soothing vibration that sounded like finally and home.

One look in green eyes told him it was a homecoming shared.

When his hands swept over Ezra's naked bottom the body molded to his flinched involuntarily. Vin pursed his lips then eased away.

"Gonna run over ta Nate's. See what he has ta put on that."

The briefest flare of argument appeared then died away, Ezra capitulating to his decisive offer. Vin knew that had to mean it still hurt. He scooted on the bed, managing to sit up, then he tried to right his clothes so he was presentable enough to dart to Nathan's and back. They were all so catawampus he decided the best idea was to just start over. The remaining buttons gave when he pulled at his shirt and he let it slip back onto the bed. Hands assisted him here, tunneling beneath his undershirt to tease and explore. Vin let his head fall back, giving in to how heavy it suddenly felt, the heat the burned his lips with an anticipatory tingle. His mouth dropped open, low moan emanating from his chest when Ezra's closed over it in a twisting kiss. It couldn't last long, discomfort starting to override the pleasure, Ezra trying to stay balanced on bent knees.

Vin reached out with his tongue, lashing it over Ezra's in a goodbye flicker. He reluctantly pulled away, letting the hands help him get his undershirt the rest of the way off. Kisses peppered over his shoulders, fingers trailing enticing fire over his skin. One last kiss then the arousing dance ceased, a low sigh of fatigue ghosting over him. Vin shot a dark look over his shoulder, pinning Ezra in place with an arched brow.

Lashes fluttered over mossy eyes, playing with him. Ezra smiled. "I'm fine. Just got tired of trying not to fall on my ass."

Vin let out a bark of laughter at the unexpected words, keeping his gaze a moment longer on his lover's reclined form then he nodded, appeased. He looked away before said pert ass could get the better of him once more.

He stood and bobbled before finding his feet. Vin tried to tuck his short clothes back into his buckskins, but the layers just tangled all the more. Finally he huffed and pushed everything down, then cursed in annoyance when it all bottlenecked at his boots. Vin fell back onto the bed with an oof.

Ezra laughed, the contented and amused peals barely more than a whisper. Vin held back his own laugh, trying to growl instead. It didn't work very well, nor did it fool his lover. A finger created a tiny circle of warmth on his back then moved along to follow the curve of his spine, tripping over each bone as it descended. When it reached the shallow indentation at the apex of his cleft he swallowed. Down it caressed, wriggling to fit between his cheeks and the mattress.

Vin's eyes drifted to close as he started to give into the urgings of his traitorous body. A determined voice inside piped up, reminding him he was getting up and leaving for a reason, that he was going after something to help Ezra. With resolve partially reinforced at the thought Vin swallowed then popped off the bed, eluding further touch. Two seconds later he was falling right back onto it, flailing when his pants, still bunched around his ankles, prevented his abortive step. Ezra's chuckle made him harrumph, dignity feeling slighted.

"It seems your clothes and I are in agreement." The honeyed tones were affectionate and teasing.

Vin turned on the bed, forgiving the moment his eyes met Ezra's. Gold glinted when the loving smile widened, tickling at his already aroused senses.

"Neither of us want you to leave the bed."

He smiled back, shaking his head as he lowered to tug his boots off. When that was accomplished Vin kicked the mass of clothes off his ankles. He lowered back onto the mattress, boosting his legs to swivel so he could lie down, facing Ezra. The two grinned at each other, Ezra's face tucked against a pillow, arms hidden under the strong body, Vin in a generous, shameless, naked sprawl.

After a moment of quiet meditation he scooted close, kissing Ezra's eyelids closed. "Stay here and rest while I'm gone."

He waited until Ezra nodded then he rolled off the bed to land on his feet. Vin journeyed over to the dressing table, cleaning himself with a few hasty scrubs. He deposited the washbasin at the bedside.

"Bet you'd feel better iffen ya washed yourself down, bit a soap ta take the last a the stingers away." He smiled, shaking his head to decline the ready offer he saw in the warm green eyes to assist Ezra with the cleaning.

Vin dressed quickly, disentangling only what was necessary from the pile of clothes that had been shed onto the floor. Silence filled the room; companionable, complete. He shuffled around, kicking the thorns in a loose pile out of the way to be gathered and discarded later. When he turned back to face the bed Ezra shifted enough to extend an arm, gesturing towards the dresser. Vin took the few paces to it and immediately understood, grabbing up the key that was glinting in a small, delicate bowl. He pocketed the key then made for the door, winking over a shoulder. If he kissed Ezra goodbye like he wanted it'd be awhile longer before he actually left.

"Back soon, 'k?" he assured softly just before opening the door.

"Mmm… see that you are."

He grinned, blue and green meeting a last time to spark, then he closed the door with a firm hand, locked it and sped stealthily away. Vin took the stairs down into the saloon two at a time. He was so intent on making the trip to Nathan's as fast as possible that he didn't realize his speedy progress was noted with grinning, speculative interest by two certain patrons enjoying a quiet drink in the corner of the darkened barroom.

Vin took the treads up to the clinic with a quick, easy step. He knocked once lightly on the door in a preemptory gesture, then pushed inside to poke his head in, peering around the dim interior.

"Nate? Ya in here?" His call was quiet and purposefully without urgency.

A bit of shuffling then the light that had been glowing from the adjoining room shifted and danced closer. Nathan popped around the doorframe.

"Vin? Everything okay?" The usually smooth voice was rough from disuse and a tinge of worry.

He shook his head, lifting his hands in a placating gesture. "No trouble, nobody bleeding or dying." He winked.

Nathan visibly relaxed, turning to set the lamp he was carrying on the low work surface flanking the side of the clinic. He nodded. "That's a nice change of pace. What can I do for you then?"

Vin bit his lip, thinking on Ezra's injury, that leading him directly to where it was and his methods for making it feel all better. With a shake of his head he forced himself to focus on the matter at hand, smiling to ease the mood. "Ez managed ta meet acquaintance with the unfriendly end of a mesquite branch." He hitched a thumb over his shoulder, loosely indicating the direction of the saloon. "Told him I'd see iffen ya had anything ta put on where he was bit."

"Ah." Nathan nodded then held up a single finger. Then the man was off, rummaging through his shelves. It wasn't long before he joined Vin again, round tin in hand the size of his palm standing about an inch thick. He passed it over with a nod. "Red Clover Salve. It's soothing and isn't sticky. Just have Ezra rub it over where he got stuck - work some in then put on another layer. That'll help keep it from itching." Nathan smiled. "Don't think this is like to kill the man, but he'll be feeling it for a week or so."

Vin laughed and took the tin. "Thanks Nate. Sounds easy enough."

"It is." Dark eyes were sharp. "Make sure he washes the area first, with soap. And tell him if it still hurts in a few days to let me know. Don't want it getting infected if any of the thorn points are still in him."

Vin kept nodding, glad he'd suggested the washing to Ezra, knowing his lover would have likely done it anyway.

Nathan paused, then added in a milder tone, "Better yet, since you know where it's bothering him, you keep an eye on him and let me know if he's not healing."

"Will do Nate." Vin patted the concerned healer on the shoulder. "Don't think it's likely, but I'll be sure ta keep watch, let ya know if anything else is needed." He thought about how thorough he'd been, confident Ezra would suffer no lasting effects from any thorns, knowing none got past his notice. He stifled a satisfied, lusty grin and bobbed his head instead.

Vin wasn't in any mood to linger, so he brought their brief discussion to a close with a pointed but warm, "Nite then."

Nathan nodded back, demeanor now relaxed and easy. "Nite Vin. See you boys in the morning."

Vin tipped his hat as he rolled out the door, closing it behind him. He made fast work of the stairs and trotted back to the saloon. In no time the batwing doors were swinging nearly off their hinges as he pushed through, his steps taking him quickly across the wood floor.

"Evening Vin."

The almost lazily drawled, teasing voice brought him up short. Vin blinked several times, trying to open his pinpoint focus away from the stairs to allow the rest of the room to filter in. He turned in place, finding Buck and Chris watching him with what he discerned to be informed amusement and tolerant indulgence. The men looked relaxed, sitting at the far curve of the seven's usual table, close enough so their shoulders touched.

The blond head nodded, indicating his left hand. "Make yourself a discovery, did you?" Chris' eyes were dancing with life, the teasing glint that had been audible in the low voice warming them further. Lips were curled in an open smile. "Seems the day for it."

Those hazel eyes, which had hours ago been ready to commit remorseless murder now sang with pleased affection. Vin knew that had much more to do with the man at Chris' side than with him. Matching that light was forgiveness - unspoken, easy, simple forgiveness. No more words would be said between them of Vin playing Tom and Chris nearly taking his head off, for no more would be necessary.

Vin managed to bob his head in wordless acknowledgement and appreciation of the allowance. His lips tugged when both men returned the gesture without hesitation. Twin sets of eyes eased from the serious exchange to again brim with playful mockery. He furrowed his brows and considered what had been said. It occurred to him that he'd run from Ezra's room only minutes ago and was running just as fast to get right back, tin of salve glinting in his hand, all three of them knowing what he'd observed earlier that day. Discoveries indeed… His face flushed crimson and he shook his head, eyes fluttering closed with a low groan. Not exactly subtle.

Not exactly what was going on either.

Rumbly laughter filled his silence.

"Aw hell, Chris. Leave the boy alone. Pretty clear he's busy."

Vin glared at Buck.

The man was grinning shamelessly. A blue eye winked. "Get on now. You can see ta buying us that drink tomorrow night. How's that?"

He would have burrowed a hand into his trousers and flung a bit of silver at the pair, told them to enjoy without him if he'd been wearing anything more than the bare essentials. Seeing as his pouch of money, his undershirt, his bandana, his hat, his underwear… well, seeing as just about everything was in a neat pile in Ezra's room he just agreed with a grateful nod.

"Sounds good ta me Buck." Vin paused, narrowing his eyes to pin them both with a meaningful stare. "Thanks," he drawled quietly after they'd held gazes for a moment.

Chris' smile had yet to fade, lingering on the handsome face with steady warmth. He nodded at Vin and waved a hand. "See ya tomorrow, Tanner."

Vin laughed, shaking his head as he pivoted back to the stairs. He threw a wave over his shoulder. Heat tingled up his back in a ripple when Chris called after him.

"Tell Ez ta sleep tight. Tuck the boy up real good now, hear? Hear tell Texan's make good blankets."

Buck snorted then snickered in response to Chris' barb. Vin readied to turn around with a warning glower, sharp comeback on his tongue.

The dig and their shared laughter was perfectly amended with Chris' softer, "Josiah'll take first patrol. Just make sure to show up for lunch. Can make good on that drink then."

He did turn back this time so he could meet Chris' eyes, nod his thanks. Vin couldn't help but grin at the hand that flickered, motioning as if two of the fingers were climbing imaginary stairs, brows waggling over the hazel eyes. His gaze shifted to Buck, the summer blues sated and content, one winking in salutation, holding silent thanks of their own.

Vin gave a last nod then threw his hand at them dismissively and ran up the stairs.

It didn't take long before he was opening Ezra's lock with the key he'd been directed to take before heading out. "Ez?" he called softly, stopping at the dresser to stow the key then he made a beeline for the bed.

A smile of desire and love quirked to disturb his intent study of the man sleeping peacefully on the feather bed.

Ezra was on his stomach, cheek pressed into a pillow, a beautiful cameo relaxed in repose. His shoulders were two bunches of muscle where they were bent, the arms disappearing under the cushion to support his head. He was also completely naked, the angry redness on the pale nether cheeks the only thing marring the delectable vision. More because it reminded Vin of Ezra's discomfort than for ruining the perfection of the creamy flesh laid in trusting display for his eyes to cherish.

Vin slipped the tin into his pocket and lifted one foot then the other, sliding his boots off and leaving them next to the bed. He hitched his shirt off without bothering to unbutton it, letting it drift to puddle soundlessly on the floor. He wriggled his toes as he walked around the bed, letting them air out after being stuffed in his boots without benefit of socks. As gently as he could he sat on the edge of the bed then worked the salve loose from his pants, opening the lid to regard the thick substance. It was vaguely sweet and vaguely oily, but otherwise carried no distinct odor. He loaded his fingers with a generous portion of the yellowish cream and set to work.

He took his time spreading it over Ezra's enflamed bottom, wanting to do as Nathan had instructed and also just loving the feel of the gambler's skin passing under his slick hands.

"Mmmm…"

Vin grinned. "Feel good?"

Ezra's hips shimmied, arms uncoiling from under the pillow. He could hear the answering grin on his lover's face.

"Oh yes... quite. Thank you." Ezra's drawl was thick and sleepy. It warmed Vin just to hear it.

He scooped out another glob of the cool salve, setting the tin down on the bed so both hands could administer. Vin leaned close and pressed a kiss into his lover's nape. "My pleasure, Ez. Want ya ta feel good." His voice was rough, suggestive, letting Ezra know all that he intended to ensure his promise was met.

After he was satisfied the salve had provided its medicinal goal, Vin trailed his lubricated fingers into Ezra's cleft, running smoothly up and down the deep seam several times. He prodded the clenching pucker with his index finger, brow going up with a matching, devilish smile when it sheathed up inside of Ezra without resistance.

Ezra grunted in response, pelvis jerking off the bed. He twisted his finger, stroking as he traveled, noting with growing heat and interest that Ezra's breath caught and fists clenched into the sheets when he ran into a fleshy nub within his lover. Vin speared a second finger up inside, licking lips that had fallen parted as he watched Ezra respond to his attentions.

He lowered close for another kiss, grabbing the skin of Ezra's shoulder and rolling it in his teeth. "That feel good too?" he asked, voice a husky purr.

His answer was Ezra's hitching hips and throaty groans. Vin's grin widened. It must feel good to render this man speechless.

He kept up the internal massage, enjoying the effects, the feel of the clenching heat and tightness around his fingers. Soon enough, however, his own needs begged to be answered. Three more deep strokes and he pulled away. Vin planted both hands on the side of the mattress and bounced over Ezra's legs. He lifted his feet and brought them over as well, lying down in the center of the bed. It took no prompting to have Ezra join him.

Fingers made quick work of his buckskins, using their cleverness to arouse him further when they zigzagged back up his legs. Thumbs skimmed over his cock, pressing at the vein then teasing over the leaking crown. Vin's eyes scrunched closed, chest constricting with a ragged groan. A snaking tongue laved when fingers moved on to cup into his hips, experimenting with the shape and taste of his erection.

"Damn," he hissed, then he grabbed Ezra's elbows and hauled the man to fall onto him, wanting them to be pressed tight and churning together once more.

He was already so close it didn't take long. Muscles played against his, their thrusts a deep circle that met and sustained a matching rhythm. Vin dug his hands into the small of Ezra's back, arms straining as he ground upwards, legs a wide anchor on the bed. Hair tickled his neck then teeth bit into his shoulder, their pace quickening to impatient, erratic bursts. Vin raised an arm to tunnel his fingers through the mass of thick hair, yanking Ezra to him, wanting to share a kiss as they shared their climax.

It was open and breathy, mouths hovering, bodies on the brink as they surged. Ezra's hips undulated in a twist, that change in speed and direction trapping their erections even tighter to finish out their slick, ecstatic dance. Vin's eyes rolled back and fluttered closed and he gave into the teetering call, spasming over the welcoming threshold that beckoned with its fire, its need, its desire.

When next he was aware Vin leaned down to find Ezra's lips, burrowing with his nose against the bent face. A pleased, satisfied chuckle and the languid mouth that greeted his told him it had been as devastatingly perfect for Ezra. They kissed awhile longer then they relaxed to lay, nestled and silent once more.

Vin held close to Ezra, hands again active over the warm flesh melded with his. A thought burbled and he laughed. At the hummed inquiry he drawled, "Might hafta tell Nate ya needed alla that salve. Can already think a what more I'd like ta try with it." Vin paused then added with light admonishment, "When you're feeling better."

Ezra smiled, looking up from where he was peppering kisses across Vin's chest. "If you and I are thinking the same thing… there's no reason for me not to try it on you first." A green eye winked. "Then when I'm recovered it can be your turn."

Vin laughed, smoothing his hands up Ezra's flanks to draw his mate close for a kiss. He hummed when it ended, securing his lover under to his chin. He used his feet to grab at the blankets, eventually getting them close enough so he could tug a hem and drag it over their cooling bodies.

"Mighty fine idea, Ez. Mighty fine." He finished tucking them in then tightened his embrace. He confessed in a low tone, "Like ta know what feels so good… want it ta be you making me feel that good too."

Ezra burred, "My pleasure, Vin. I want for you to feel good."

Vin grinned at the mimicry of his words from earlier. "Could be a bit 'fore you're feeling up ta letting me return the favor. Nate said it'd be sore a week or more."

The shoulders in his hold shrugged.

"Well, seeing as we have the rest of our lives, I'm deciding not to be concerned with a few weeks." Ezra levered above him to grin. "Besides. We can keep track. Then when I am feeling better, you can make up for lost time." The gold-flecked grin was loving, anticipatory and completely lascivious.

He urged Ezra to him, mouth opening for his kiss. "Why don't we get started on that now?"

Hands trailed down his body, tweaking sensitive nipples, stroking over his ribs to tease over his abdomen, flecking into his navel then tangling in the coarse hair that nested his reawakening cock.

Vin expelled a loose moan as he was further played, the sound pitching to an urgent grunt when a slick finger entered him. It sought and found that secret within and his legs widened of their own accord, his body inviting deeper touch. Soft kisses, hard bites and soothing licks dusted over him, more fingers joining where that first one continued its sensational pursuit.

Lips paused over his when Ezra's body stretched above him, his body open and willing in answer to the seeking question that stroked.

"My thoughts exactly," was whispered heatedly, then all else fell away when their mouths - and bodies - joined.

End