This was suppose to be ready by Valentine's Day - But I didn't 'quite' make it! Hope you enjoy it!!

Sequel to: Only the Beginning (Chapter 14)

Ezra threw his pencil down in disgust. He had been adding the same column of numbers for the last half hour and still they weren't totaling. With a sigh he pushed his chair back and got to his feet. Walking over to the window, Ezra had smile as he spotted Vin, Chris, and Buck repairing the corral surrounding the barn. The brakes had finally failed on the old work truck sending Chris crashing through the weather beaten boards. Luckily Chris nor any none of the stock had been hurt, but the corral was another story.

The smile quickly faltered as he thought of Vin and whatever was bothering him here lately. After everything they'd been through and survived, one would have thought that the two of them would have been on the top of the world. They had just shared the perfect Christmas and New Year's together. And now . . . And now, Ezra didn't know what was going on.

No. No, he knew what was going on. He just didn't understand why. Well, he understood part of the why. The only thing different in their relationship was them building a home.

Ezra had never had a home of his own before. Apartments, yes, but homes? The bunkhouse was his first real home. Before coming here Ezra hadn't had anyone to share life's little ups and downs with. But now he had Vin. Had someone that loved him. So he got a little excited and had talked of little else. In his excitement Ezra failed to notice that Vin didn't share in his excitement. In fact, the more excited he got the more quiet Vin became.

It took Ezra two weeks to notice Vin changing the subject every time he brought the house up. Once he had noticed Ezra tried to apologize and get Vin to talk, but his lover insisted that everything was fine. So he let the subject drop and pushed his dreams of building a home with Vin to the back of his mind and locked it shut. They wouldn't see the light of day until Vin was ready. The dream of a home in no way compared to the dream that was Vin.

Running a weary hand across his face Ezra rested his head in the crook of his elbow, which lay on the window seal.

He didn't even bother raising his head as he heard someone walk in.

"Ezra?" Josiah said.

"Yes?" he replied still not raising his head.

"Are you okay?"

After a long minute Ezra straightened to his full height and said, "Yes, why do you ask?"

"Oh, no reason," Josiah quipped with a roll of his eyes. "Seriously, if you want to talk, I'll be glad to listen."

For the first time in his life Ezra dearly wanted to be able to confide his fears to someone, but knew that he would not do so to this man. Not Josiah. Not Vin's brother.

"Thank you, Josiah, but that won't be necessary," Ezra assured him.

"The offer is always there if you change your mind," Josiah promised.

"I know," he said in a quiet voice. Clearing his throat Ezra smiled and said, "I'm going to stretch my legs. These numbers are driving me crazy and giving me a headache."

"You could always go help Vin and the others with the corral."

"I said they were giving me a headache not making me delusional," he pointed out with a laugh.

Stepping onto the porch Ezra pulled the collar of his jacket up trying to keep out the cold wind. A shiver worked its way down his back and he realized that Vin and the others had been out in this most of the day, only stopping for lunch. Turning on his heel Ezra went back inside and made a fresh pot of coffee. Once the coffee finished brewing, he filled three thermoses then headed back outside.

Vin and Buck held the board still while Chris nailed it in place. Grinning at something Buck said he looked up to reply only to forget the words as his attention was caught and held by Ezra, who was standing at the office window with his head down.

He knew 'he' was the reason that proud head was bowed in worry. He didn't want Ezra worrying about him. Or them for that matter. The two of them were fine. Wonderful in fact. They were the only thing Vin was sure of here lately.

What he hadn't understood for a long time was why the thought of owning a home or having his name on a deed scared the shit out of him. Knowing he needed to do some thinking Vin saddled Peso and had disappeared for a few hours yesterday. He rode to his usual thinking spot, but found that the snow topped trees offered him little comfort. Closing his eyes Vin started as his and Ezra's meadow suddenly appeared in his mind. Knowing a sign when he saw one Vin turned Peso around and headed there instead.

Vin walked around the area welcoming the peace it gave him just being there. Knowing that this was where him and Ezra would spend the rest of their lives together. When that didn't cause any fear, he knew that it must have to do with the house. And that's when the fear hit him. And that's when Vin figured out why it scared him. It wasn't the house that had him hesitating, but the changes that came with it. Things had happened pretty damned fast between him and Ezra. They went from barely speaking to lovers - which Vin botched. To living together. This was the start of a new chapter in Vin's life. In his adult life. In his first real relationship.

He was leaving home for the first time, even though it was just going down the road. Him and Ezra would have a house of their own. A life of their own. A life together. With that acknowledge Vin felt the fear lift from his heart, leaving him free to get on with his life. Vin was ready to let go of his childhood, his fears, and start his future with Ezra.

Now all he had to do was explain it to Ezra. Vin didn't have his lover's way with words and prayed that would Ezra understand.

"Vin?"

He was so lost his in thoughts that he didn't hear Buck calling his name. Nor did he notice that Ezra was no longer standing by the window.

"Vin?" Buck called once again, then gave him a playful shove.

"What?" Vin frowned at him.

"Hand us another board," he told him.

Vin nodded and turned to do just that only to be distracted as Ezra stepped out on the porch. Just the sight of his lover caused his breath to catch in his throat and he loved it. Loved him. Tonight Vin would tell Ezra everything and close the distance that had developed between them over lately.

He sighed as he realized how much he'd missed Ezra. Then forgetting that he had an audience Vin dropped to his knees and leaned against the fence post, simply drinking in the sight of his very own piece of Southern comfort.

Buck exchanged a look with Chris and rolled his eyes. "Vin?" Nothing. Buck then nudged him with his boot.

"Huh?"

"The board . . ."

"Board?"

"Vin!" Buck hollered. "Dammit, boy, snap out of it!! I don't plan on fixing this damned fence all day!" he fussed.

"What?"

"'What?'" Buck mimicked. "Hell, you live with the man! So stop acting like you ain't never seen him before."

Vin blushed and got to his feet, bringing the board with him. "Sorry. It's just that there's been a little distance between me and Ez lately . . . and I've finally worked out why," he explained.

"That's great, Vin," Buck said. Then remembered a conversation he had with his younger brother awhile back and decided to tease him. Cocking his head to the right Buck grinned and said, "So did ya ever get ya any vitamins . . ."

"Buck!"

"There's nothing wrong in needing a little help . . ."

"Buck . . ."

"I think it makes you more of a man to admit you have such a problem," Buck continued.

"Yeah, Vin, I hear there's all kinds of things that can be done for a . . . limp noodle," Chris whispered the last two words.

"There's nothing wrong with my noodle," Vin growled. "And I done told ya I don't need any vitamins!"

Buck and Chris both laughed as they held up their hands in mock surrender.

"What do you need vitamins for, Vin?" a Southern voice asked causing them all to look up.

"I don't need any vitamins!"

"Okay," Ezra said grin, but took step back anyway.

"Vin was telling us he's been having trouble performing . . ."

"I did not!" Vin cried. He felt his face heating up as well as his temper. "Ezra has there ever been anything wrong with my performance?" As soon as he voiced the question the first time him and Ezra made love flashed through his mind and Vin felt tears sting his eyes as he relived those horrible moments.

Ezra smiled and said, "I can honestly say that I have never found anything wrong with your 'performance'."

"Really?" Vin felt the need to ask. He knew Ezra knew what he was asking.

"Really," Ezra promised, then stepped closer and gave him an all too brief kiss.

Pressing forward so that only the fence stood between them, Vin deepened the kiss and felt the last of his guilt over that night lift from his heart. Finally knowing that Ezra truly had forgiven him. Had in fact forgiven him when it happened, just like he said. Vin didn't know what he did to deserve this man in his life, but he thanked God every day . . . for every day.

Pulling back, he grinned at the color he saw in Ezra's cheeks. "That for us?" Vin asked, indicating the thermoses.

"Huh?"

"Are those for us?" he repeated with a big grin. He loved it when he confused Ezra.

"Uh, yeah," Ezra said with a shake of his head. "I thought ya'll could use something to warm your bones."

"I get any warmer and I'll start sweating," he teased with a wink. Then passed the thermoses around.

"This hits the spot," Buck sighed.

"Yeah," Chris quickly agreed.

"Oh, Ezra," Vin moaned, then winked at him. "If I didn't already love you, I'd fall for you right now," he teased.

"And if you weren't a man I'd kiss you," Buck teased.

Vin was about to say something about that when they heard curses coming from inside the house.

"Josiah's making gumbo," Ezra told them with a shake of his head.

Buck made a face. "You're gonna help him, right?"

"I'll do what I can, but I make you no promises," the Southerner said.

Ezra had fixed them a big pot of gumbo a few weeks ago and Josiah has tried a couple of times since then to make some himself, but it never tasted anything like Ezra's.

The four of them talked for a few more minutes then heard more cursing and a loud crash which had Ezra rolling his eyes as he went to investigate.

Vin found himself watching the gentle sway of Ezra's hips. His lover was wearing a pair of faded jeans that hugged the curve of his ass like a second skin. Vin loved those jeans. Loved what was in them even more.

He jumped as something hit him and shot Buck a dirty look. "Buck . . ."

"You'd best tighten the reins on junior there," Buck darted a look at Vin's jeans.

Vin felt his face flush with color, but didn't look away.

"If I can't leave early then neither are you," he told him.

"Things are okay with you two, right?" Chris asked.

"Okay, yes. Great, no," Vin told them. "But they will be. Tonight. Like I said earlier I know what the problem is, so now all I have to do is explain it to Ezra."

When Ezra walked into the bunkhouse later that afternoon, he stopped in his tracks at hearing the shower. "Oh, so it's okay for 'him' to shower alone. He nearly has kittens when I do it," Ezra fussed. Then suddenly grinned as he got an idea. Stepping into the bathroom, he paused for a minute to admire the view of Vin's wet glistening body through the shower curtain. Ezra had to force himself to look away. Taking a deep breath, he walked over to the toilet and flushed it then laughed as Vin started hollering and threw that same curtain opened and started fussing.

"Dammit it all to hell, Ez! What the hell did you that for? Shit, that water was . . ."

"You showering without me," Ezra stated rather than asked, shutting him up real quick.

Vin was quiet for a few seconds then said, "Well, you see Ezra it's like this." He then paused as if to regroup. "The fact of the matter is I . . . smelled like horse shit. And didn't want to get any of that on you."

"So you were just thinking of me?"

"Of course," he agreed. "My every other thought is of you."

Ezra had to smile at that, simply because it was the same for him. "So did you get all of the horse shit off?" He felt his body respond as Vin gave him that slow sexy half grin of his.

"Yeah and now I need help washing my back."

"Just your back?"

"Well, there are one or two areas that I can't really reach."

Ezra wasted no time in removing his clothes. Stepping into the tub he pulled the curtain closed and pressed an open mouth kiss to Vin's lips. Then slowly deepened it so that he could taste every inch of his lover's mouth. Pulling slightly back, Ezra scattered kisses along Vin's jaw before returning to his lips for another taste.

"I love kissing you," Ezra whispered against his lips. "Every time's like the first time . . ."

"Remember our first kiss?" Vin asked. "It was like nothing I had ever felt before . . . It was like our souls touched."

He nodded then shivered as Vin traced the scar on his chest with his tongue. "Even then I could see myself falling in love with you and it scared the hell out of me."

"I noticed," Vin grinned.

"Every where I turned . . . there you were," Ezra grinned in return. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"For giving me the courage to overcome my fears and take a chance on you. On us."

"You're not the only one who's had to fight his fears Ezra," Vin whispered.

"Not you, Vin. You're not afraid of anything . . ."

"Oh, yes I am . . ."

"Vin you're one of the bravest men I know," Ezra told him. "You knew we were destined to be together . . ." he gently grasped Vin's chin to keep him from looking away. "Okay, you faltered once. Once. But with good cause I might add, however you never . . . never varied from what was meant to be. Us."

Vin shook his head. "That's not bravery, Ezra. I only followed my heart."

"Sometimes that the most dangerous of all paths to follow."

"I'd follow you through hell itself," he vowed.

"I love you," Ezra whispered.

"I love you too," Vin sighed into his ear. "And I have faltered more than once . . ."

Ezra pulled back and asked, "When?"

"Well our first time and then there was that shit with Nettie . . ."

Ezra smiled at him then gave him a quick kiss. "Miss Nettie wasn't faltering Vin. You were just pulled in too many directions." He then began kissing his way down Vin's body, loving the sounds his lover made.

"E..Ezra?"

"Yes," he mumbled as he zeroed in on the dimpled indent at Vin's waist.

"I wanted . . . to talk . . . about our . . . house," Vin panted then shuddered. "Oh!"

Ezra pressed his face into Vin's tapered stomach and began to lose himself in the taste and feel of his lover's navel. He didn't fully understand the strange attraction he had for Vin's belly button. He had never before even touched another man's navel . . . until Vin. But then again until Vin, Ezra hadn't ever been in love before. Until Vin, he had never felt loved before. Until Vin, it sometimes felt as if he hadn't even really lived before.

He vaguely heard Vin saying something about their house and tried to concentrate, but was failing miserably.

"E..Ezra are . . . you listening to me?"

"Of course, my love," Ezra replied and eased back just a little. "What about our house?" He just prayed that, that was what Vin still talking about.

"N..Nothing," Vin panted then tangled his fingers in Ezra's hair. "It'll . . . keep. Don't . . . s..stop," he pleaded.

That's all he needed to hear and placed his open mouth over Vin's navel and gave it a kiss before nibbling on it and then teasing it with his tongue. Ezra felt the hand in his hair tighten, the body he was loving tremble, the hot pulsing shaft rubbing against his throat and pressed closer giving Vin the friction he needed to find his release. He heard Vin scream his name and gasped as that release spattered all over his neck, some even landed on Ezra's face. The feel of Vin's life essence triggered his own surrender and Ezra just did manage to catch Vin as his long legs buckled.

Panting Ezra eased them back so that he could lean against the tub. He pressed a kiss to Vin's temple and pulled him closer.

"God, Ezra what you do to me," Vin whispered still trembling.

"It's nothing compared to what you do to me." Ezra sat up and rinsed them off then lifted his lover's head and gave him a gentle kiss full of love. "Did I mention that I love kissing you?"

Vin grinned against his lips and said, "Yeah, but don't let that stop you."

Ezra smiled and told him again then demonstrated.

Late the next morning Vin heard a knock at the door. Opening it, he was shocked to see who it was. An old lov . . . uhm . . . date of his.

"Hey, Vin."

"Ronnie," Vin said with a small smile. Damn, but it's been a while since he'd last seen this man and for some reason he wasn't as happy to see him as he thought he would have been.

Ronnie Davis was over six foot tall with broad shoulders and long dark brown hair, which was tied neatly behind his neck. He looked just like Vin remembered only . . . his blue eyes, which had been what first attracted Vin, were now guarded and he just wasn't as handsome as Vin remembered.

"Aren't you gonna ask me in?"

Vin narrowed his eyes as he felt all his instincts scream at him to say no, but before he could say anything Ezra stepped up behind him.

"Who's at the door? It's not my mother is it?" he asked in a stage whisper.

The Texan had to smile at that. "No, Ezra it's an old friend of mine," he told him. Stepping back he motioned for Ronnie to enter. After taking Ezra's left hand in his, he made the introductions. "Ronnie Davis, this is Ezra Standish, my . . ." Vin began to because he wasn't sure what to call Ezra. Boyfriend wasn't right and lover just didn't sound like enough.

"Significant other?" Ezra offered with a grin.

"I was thinking husband," he teased and gave him a kiss. "Ronnie and I used to . . . date."

"We did much more than date," Ronnie corrected with a grin.

"Oh, so he's that kind of 'friend'," Ezra said.

"Nice to meet you Ezra," Ronnie said holding out his hand.

"Same here," the Southerner replied as he took the offered hand.

"What brings you to Four Corners?" Vin asked once they were seated. Him and Ezra on the couch and Ronnie in the recliner.

"I was in Denver on business and thought I'd stop by and say hi," Ronnie explained.

"I'm glad you did," Vin said with a small smile. "It's been a long time."

"Yes, it has," Ronnie agreed. "Listen I don't have a lot of time, but was hoping we could get together later and get caught up with each other. What do you say?"

"Sure, Ezra and I would love to," he told him. Vin could tell that Ronnie didn't like the idea of Ezra joining them, but didn't give a damn. Until he knew what Ronnie wanted, he didn't plan on spending any time alone with him.

They talked for a few more minutes Vin walked Ronnie to the door. Turning back around he saw Ezra looking at him with a thoughtful expression on his face. "What?"

"Nothing."

Vin narrowed his eyes and cocked his head to the right. "Don't give me that," he said. "I know when you have something on your mind. So spill it."

"How long were you and Mr. Davis lovers?" Ezra asked after a long pause.

With a shake of his head Vin closed the distance between them and knelt down in front of Ezra. "No, Ezra, you are my only lover. Ronnie and I only ever had sex. Pure and simple. There was no emotion involved. Just . . . just . . ."

"Gratification."

Vin nodded. "Yes. That sums it up. You don't like him do you?"

"He seems like a nice person," Ezra said after a few seconds.

"You don't like him do you?" he repeated with a smile.

Ezra heaved a big sigh and began playing with the collar of Vin's shirt. "No. I don't like him at all. Something about him bothers me," he admitted. "Be careful around him. Okay?"

Taking those sexy hands in his Vin rubbed his thumb across the back of Ezra's knuckles and said, "Okay. But you have nothing to worry about." Leaning forward he pressed a kiss to Ezra's lips. Pulling back Vin rested his forehead against Ezra's and assured him. "I never loved him. I never loved anyone until you."

"Are we going to meet him later?"

"We don't have to if you don't wanta."

"No, Vin it's up to you," Ezra told him. "I'll not keep you from your friends. If you want to go then I'll go with you."

Him and his big mouth, Ezra silently grumbled. If he had told Vin no, then he wouldn't be stuck in a noisy, smelly, smoke filled gay bar listening to his lover and Mr. Davis reminisce about their many exploits. Ezra had no idea what they were talking about, but he did manage to laugh when he had to and add a comment or two as required. But truth be told he wouldn't be able to tell a soul what the two talked about.

He clinched his jaw as he saw Mr. Davis once again reach for Vin's hand. Not wanting to sound like some jealous jackass Ezra kept his mouth shut and hoped that Vin . . . 'his lover' would tell him to stop. Hell, he could tell that Vin didn't like the contact anymore than he did, but Vin had yet to say something. Vin only pulled his hand out of reach. However, if his lover didn't say something and soon then Ezra would take matters into his own hands. And handle the situation like any reasonable Southern gentlemen would . . . and kick the bastard's ass.

Ezra felt Vin tense beside him and wondered what he missed. "Vin?" He watched as Vin got to his feet and quickly followed him. And as he slid past Mr. Davis, Ezra made sure to give him a look that promised a very painful death if he got out of line.

"Go start the car," Vin said handing him the keys.

"Why?" he questioned and shot another look at Mr. Davis.

"Just go start the car," Vin told him. "Please, Ezra. I'll explain it all to you soon."

"I don't like leaving you alone with . . . him, but I'll do it for you," Ezra told him.

"Thanks, Green Eyes."

The Southerner gave him a small smile then held his hand out, "Mr. Davis."

"Ezra," Ronnie said and after a brief hesitation shook the offered hand.

"Have a safe trip home," Ezra told him and had every intention of bone in this bastard's hand only Vin wouldn't let him.

"Ezra," Vin warned and gave him a gentle shove toward the door. "Give me ten minutes."

"Fine, but not a second more."

Ezra walked out of the bar and headed straight for the Jag. He unlocked the doors and started the engine. Glancing at his watch Ezra saw that only three minutes had passed since he'd left Vin with that man. Climbing from the car he turned and rested his chest against the open door.

Seeing his lover coming had Ezra rushing across the parking lot to meet him. "Are you all right? Did that bastard do something to you?" he asked and wrapped his arms around Vin.

"I'm fine, Ezra . . ."

"Are you sure? Do ya want me to go and kick his ass?"

"Yes I'm sure and no I don't want you anywhere near him," Vin told him. "Let's just go home. Ok?"

Ezra pulled back, brushed the hair from Vin's face, and kissed both of his eyes. "Okay," he took Vin's hand and headed for the car. After opening the door for him he headed for the other side.

They had just pulled onto the highway and were headed home when Ezra figured he'd waited long enough. "Aren't you going to tell me what happened?"

Vin sighed. "I don't think I should tell you while you're driving . . ."

"Oh, so it's that bad . . ."

"I didn't say that . . ."

"Then you shouldn't have a problem telling me," Ezra pushed.

"I don't want to make you mad . . ."

"You're making me mad by not telling me," he pointed out. "So tell me!"

"He grabbed me, ok!"

"What!" Ezra cried and slammed on the break, causing the car to skid. "Did he hurt you? 'Cause if he did I'll rip the son of a bitch's head off and shove it so far up his ass he'll choke on it. Did he hurt you?"

"No. I'm fine . . ."

"Are you sure?" Ezra pushed. "You look a little shaken up to me . . ."

"That's 'cause of our sudden stop," Vin told him.

"Oh, sorry about that," he mumbled and rubbed Vin's cheek. "I didn't hurt you did I?" Ezra would rather chew off his own arm then ever hurt Vin.

"No, Ez, I'm fine . . ."

"Good. Good. So where'd he touch you?"

"Ezra . . ."

"Vin. Tell. Me. Where. He. Touched. You."

"Under the table . . ."

"Dammit, Vin . . ."

"On the leg! He grabbed my leg. Is that what you want to know?"

"I knew I didn't like that bastard! That sorry son of a bitch! I cannot believe he grabbed you! And with me sitting there beside you! Was your leg the only part of your body to be molested?"

"No one molested me!" Vin declared. "He grabbed my leg. Period. I don't understand why you're getting so worked up about it . . ."

"Oh! Well, then I guess it would be okay with if an old 'friend' of mine showed up and played with my legs," Ezra stated. And he hadn't failed notice that Vin hadn't answer his question. Or the fact that if something else hadn't happened then Vin wouldn't be this upset. Nor would his knuckles be red.

Vin swore he saw red and he snapped. "The hell it is! No one's touching you but me!" He squirmed at the pointed look Ezra gave him. "All right! All right! I do understand. Dammit, Ezra I don't want us fighting because of that bastard. He touched me, I handled it, and now it's over. Let's just let it go. Ok?"

Ezra didn't say a word, just resumed driving.

A silent Ezra was never a good sign. "Ezra?"

"Okay, Vin."

Closing his eyes Vin turned and looked out into the night. He hated lying to Ezra, but what choice did he have. If he reacts like this over a little touch on the leg . . . how the hell would he react if Vin told him that Ronnie kissed him. Vin couldn't believe it when the man had grabbed him and kissed him, but it hadn't taken Vin long to react. He shoved Ronnie back and punched the bastard then wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. Vin told him right quick he loved Ezra and there was no place in his life for anyone else. Period.

Given the way Ezra had just reacted Vin was glad his lover hadn't seen what Ronnie did. Vin and his brothers had seen first hand what Ezra was capable of when pushed and this was so much more personal. He didn't want to risk having Ezra taken away from him again for any reason, but especially for someone as unworthy as Ronnie Davis.

The rest of the ride was done in silence. Heavy silence. Vin watched as Ezra parked the Jag and desperately wanted to say something to end the awful silence between them, but was afraid that his lover would see the truth in his eyes. With a heart felt sigh Vin closed his eyes and cruised Ronnie Davis.

"Vin?"

Opening his eyes he saw Ezra was standing next to him holding the door open.

"Come on, love, let's get out of the cold," Ezra said holding out his hand. "I don't know about you but I'm hungry . . ."

Vin took the offered hand in a firm grip and allowed himself to be lead into the house. He sat at the kitchen table, watching as Ezra fixed them both an omelet. Talking all the while. As he listened to Ezra babble on and on about one thing or another Vin found himself fighting the urge to cry.

He gave a start as he felt Ezra wiping his fingers across his wet cheek. Looking up Vin immediately leaned back as his lover placed a leg over him so he could straddled his lap.

"Please, don't cry, Vin, it'll going to be okay," Ezra said pulling him closer and gave him a reassuring hug.

Vin buried his face in Ezra's neck and hugged him tight.

"I'm sorry, Vin . . ."

That had him sitting up. "W..what for?"

"For overreacting," he shrugged. "For acting like an ass. For scaring you . . ."

"Ezra, you have nothing to apologize for. Nothing," Vin told him. "We both should have listened to our instincts and just stayed the hell away from that bastard. I'm the one that's sorry."

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah." Vin watched as Ezra lowered his head as if to kiss him and as much as he wanted to lose himself in the taste of his lover . . . he didn't want Ezra kissing him until he'd washed Ronnie's presence away. So Vin turned his head away, causing Ezra's kiss to land on his cheek. He felt Ezra tense then place another kiss to his cheek before getting to his feet.

"Ezra . . ." Vin suddenly felt cold as Ezra turned his back on him.

"Eat your omelet before it gets cold," was the only thing Ezra said before tossing his own plate into the sink . . . omelet included and walking from the room.

Later after taking the hottest shower he could . . . alone, Vin lay in bed still cold. And afraid. Tell him! His conscience screamed. Turning his head on the pillow Vin saw that Ezra lay on his right side way on the other side of the bed while he lay all the way over here . . . by himself. He didn't want to be by himself. He wanted to be with Ezra, but wasn't sure if he should cross the distance between them.

Raising one hand he reached out to touch Ezra only to let his hand drop. Closing his eyes Vin bit his lip and sighed. Then released a breath he didn't even know he was holding as he felt the bed shift as Ezra moved closer to him and gathered him in his strong arms. Vin held his reason for living in an almost bruising grip as he settled more comfortably against Ezra. Listening to the steady beat of Ezra's heart under his ear surprisingly had Vin drifting right off. His last thought was that he'd tell Ezra the truth tomorrow.

For two days now Vin had danced around avoiding Ezra's eyes. And when he had to look in those all-seeing-eyes Vin only saw understanding and a hint of worry. Which made him feel even worse.

Vin stood in the doorway of the bunkhouse watching the weather. The air had a dark ominous feel to it. And the heavy clouds kept even a hint of sun from breaking through. They also looked as if they would burst at any moment. There was definitely a storm brewing and unfortunately not just outside.

He could feel the tension between him and Ezra mounting. And knew it was all his fault. Knew that just a few words from him could have put a stop to it, but now . . . now Vin was afraid that he'd left it too late. He wasn't sure how Ezra would react.

Vin narrowed his eyes as the trees began to bend as the wind picked and he suddenly felt the need to get away. Turning he grabbed his jacket, his keys, and was headed for the door when Ezra stepped into the room.

"Vin?" Ezra frowned. "Where are you going?"

"Out."

"In this?" By now the rain had started and was coming down in sheets.

"Dammit, Ezra you're not my wife so quit the nagging!"

"I'm not nagging . . ."

"It sure as hell sounds like it to me . . ."

"Vin . . ."

"Don't push me, Ezra!"

"Push you?" he repeated with a shake of his head. "Push you? Hell, Vin I've been walking around on eggshells since the first of the year because something has been bothering you! I've given you the time and space I thought you needed. And you have the gall to accuse 'me' of pushing you!"

"Ezra . . ." This was fast getting out of control and Vin didn't want that to happen.

"I thought we were building something that would last forever. I thought we agreed . . . from the beginning to be honest with each other. I thought we promised to always be there for each other. But I can't help you IF YOU WON'T TALK TO ME!"

Vin closed his eyes and tried to rein in his emotions and felt his stomach drop at Ezra's next words.

"You can't have it both ways, Vin. Either you're in this relationship or you're not. There's no half way here . . ."

"Are you asking me to choose if I want in or out?"

"No. I'd n..never do that," Ezra told him.

Vin breathed a sigh of relief only to have that breath lodge in his throat as Ezra continued.

"I'd make the choice myself . . ."

An icy hand of fear wrapped around his heart and for a moment Vin wondered just what the hell he was doing. But his mouth and his fear overruled his head and before he knew it he had thrown down the gauntlet. Issued the ultimate taunt. "No one's making you stay." Vin saw Ezra flinch as if he had been hit and being the coward that he was . . . Vin ran. Out into the pouring to jump into his truck. He tore out of the yard and was halfway across town before what he said hit home, slamming into him like a sledgehammer causing him to momentarily loose control of the truck and run off the road.

"Oh, my God," he sobbed. "What the hell have I done?" After banging his head on the steering wheel a few times Vin gathered what was left of him and began to pray. "Please, Lord, don't let him have left me. Please, Lord." He repeated this over and over again.

Thanks to someone with a winch, half an hour later he was finally on his way home. He just prayed that Ezra was still there. Pulling into the yard he jumped from the truck without killing it and ran to the door. Not letting the fact that the house was dark scare him. Vin knew Ezra was part cat and could easily see in the dark.

Throwing the door opened, he cried, "Ezra! Ezra? Please answer me!" The last part came in a strangled whisper. Running into their room he felt that icy hand, the one he earlier ignored, tighten it's grip around what was left of his heart. A flash of lightening lit the room making Vin jump. Hurrying from the room he ran out of the house, splashing through the rain and mud as he darted across the yard.

"EZRA!" he hollered. Stumbling into the livingroom Vin pleaded with his brothers. "Is he here? Please tell me he's here! Please . . ."

"Ezra's gone . . ."

'Ezra's gone.' Those words echoed inside his shattered heart and he felt the blood drain from his face as he fell to his knees. "Oh, God, he left me," he mumbled over and over again as sobs racked his slender frame and his breath lodged in his throat.

"Vin!" Chris cried, rushing to his side. "Dammit, Vin, breath!" he ordered, then slapped him hard across the face.

Vin sucked in some much needed air and looked at Chris through bleary eyes. "He l..left m..me . . . I d..drove him away."

"No, Vin . . ."

"It's a..all m..my fault . . . I . . . Oh, God!! What am I g..gonna do without h..him . . ."

"Vin . . . Ezra just went to Denver with Nathan . . ."

"W..What?"

"He got a call from Mrs. Travis. They were in an accident . . ."

If possible Vin paled even more. "Ezra's been in an accident . . ."

"No," Chris said very slowly. "Mrs. Travis has . . ."

"Oh, s..so Ezra's c..coming back, right?" Vin asked in a pitiful voice.

"Do you want him to?"

Vin gave Josiah a hard look. "What k..kind of s..stupid ass question is that?!"

"I thought it was a very valid question," Josiah told him. "I saw Ezra's face before he left . . ."

That took the starch right out of him. "We had a fight . . . and I s..said something I shouldn't have," he stammered. He didn't even want to think about what he'd said to Ezra. Or the fact that he'd lied to him. Well, Vin hadn't exactly lied to Ezra. He just hadn't answered his question. But still that one little omission was tearing his life apart. His conscience was killing him.

"Look Vin I'm not interfering . . . but I am worried about the two of you," the older man told him.

"So am I," he mumbled. "So am I." With Chris's help Vin pulled himself to his feet and slowly made his way back to his lonely quiet Ezraless house.

He stopped to kill the engine in his truck then went inside the house and closed the door. Vin brushed a lone tear away and made for the one free corner in the room and sat down. Drawing his knees up to his chest he rested his head against the wall and waited. He swore that as soon as Ezra got home he tell him everything. From their house to Ronnie kissing him. Then beg his forgiveness.

Ezra rested his head against the window of Nathan's SUV and stared out into the night without seeing anything but his own reflection. He sat up as he realized he hadn't thanked the other man making the trek with him.

"Nathan I wanted to thank for coming with me," he said.

Nathan smiled. "You don't have to thank me, Ezra. I'm just glad that both Travises are going to be alright."

"Me, too. I'm also glad that their son finally showed up," Ezra said with a grin.

"Yeah, while I didn't mind going with you I wouldn't have wanted to stay the night."

Ezra's eyes zeroed in on Vin's truck as soon as the lights from Nathan's SUV flashed across it.

"Vin's home," Nathan said.

Ezra didn't say a word. Couldn't really. He hadn't yet allowed himself to think about what happened earlier between him and Vin. Right now other than being relieved that Vin was home, Ezra had no idea what to think about Vin 'being' home.

The Southerner had known that Vin's conscience was bothering. Knew that Vin hadn't told him everything that happened with Mr. Davis. Ezra had hoped that it all would have been settled without one of them storming out. But you could have knocked him over with a feather after what Vin said. He just prayed that Vin hadn't meant it. Prayed that they'd be able to put this all behind them.

Ezra jumped from the truck and made a dash for the porch. Easing the door opened he immediately spotted Vin curled up in the corner of the livingroom. Even from where he stood Ezra could see the chills that racked his lover's body. Hurrying across the room he headed for the bathroom and started a bath.

Turning the water off he went to rouse his lover. Shrugged out of his jacket it dropped it on the couch. "Vin," he said squatting down in front of him. "Come on Vin. Let's get you warmed up." Ezra began tugged Vin's wet boots off then pulled him to his feet as those blue eyes blinked opened.

"I'm so sorry, Ezra," Vin whispered over and over again.

"It's okay," he soothed and pulled him to his feet. Then swept his staggering love up in his arms and headed for the bathroom. Ezra quickly striped Vin of his wet clothes and placed him in the tub.

"I l..love you, Ezra," Vin said. "Please d..don't leave me. I . . . c..couldn't survive w..without you. I didn't m..mean it. I don't w..want you to g..go. P..Please don't l..leave me," he stammered with huge tears in his eyes.

With tears stinging his eyes Ezra leaned over and gave him a gentle kiss. "I'm not going anywhere Vin. And I love you, too," he told him, feeling an intense relief flow through him. Ezra quickly washed Vin from head to toe, rinsed him then helped him from the tub.

"Hold me," Vin pleaded.

Ezra wrapped his arms around his still wet lover and held him. Needing this as much as Vin. After a couple minutes though Ezra eased back, dried him off, and lead Vin to their room. "Sit," he said and pushed him down on the bed. Taking the towel Ezra began to dry Vin's hair.

"He kissed me."

That froze him to the spot. His fingers tightened in Vin's hair. "I know."

"W..what? How?"

"I smell him on you that night you turned away from me." Ezra was unaware that his grip tightened even more in Vin's hair. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"You're h..hurting me," Vin whispered.

That had Ezra jumping back and crossing the room so that he wouldn't do so again. "I'm sorry, Vin. I . . . I didn't mean to . . ."

"I deserve it . . ."

"NO! That bastard Davis deserves it! Not you," Ezra said as he knelt in front of Vin.

"I was s..scared . . ."

"Of me?"

"No! Of what you might do," Vin told him. "I couldn't help, but remember what you did to that guy . . . Hell, Ezra he was twice your size and you nearly killed him. I didn't want to risk having you taken away from me a..again. It damn near killed me the first time and knew I wouldn't survive it a second time," he went on to explain.

"Vin I may have been tempted to rip the bastard apart, but I would never do anything to jeopardize what we have," Ezra vowed.

"I love you, Ezra. So very much," Vin whispered. "About the house . . ."

Ezra listened carefully as Vin explained his fears and found that he understood all to well what Vin had been going through. What surprised him was that it wasn't 'him' that panicked. Ezra certainly hadn't ever had the kind of home life Vin had . . . but then again maybe that was why he hadn't panicked. Deep down Ezra knew that whatever life he 'did' have with Vin life would only be better.

"It's okay, Vin. I understand." Leaning forward Ezra gave Vin a kiss, slowly deepening it so that his lover could accept that all was forgiven and they were going to be just fine. Between the two of them they quickly removed Ezra's clothes. Pushing Vin back on the bed, he covered him with his body.

"I need you Ezra," Vin panted into his mouth. "I was so scared I had lost you."

"I love you Vin," Ezra reassured his lover over and over again as they made slow sweet love to each other.

The next morning a groggy Vin opened his eyes and was bombarded with images of the night before and tightened his hold on Ezra. Tears stung his eyes at what he had almost lost. Desperately needing to see the love in those green eyes instead of the worry and anxiety that seemed to live there lately Vin gave his lover a rough shake. "Ezra!"

"What?" Ezra cried as he immediately sat up. "Is something wrong? Are you all right?"

Vin could only nod his head, yes. He hadn't meant to scare Ezra . . . he just needed to look into those eyes and see that everything was going to be okay.

"What's this?" Ezra asked as he tracked a tear as it escaped down his cheek.

"I . . . almost lost you Ezra," he whispered.

"No you didn't. You'll find that I'm much harder to get rid of then that. I'm here and I'm not going anywhere," he promised.

That made Vin feel a little better, but he wasn't ready to forgive himself just yet. He had to make all this up to Ezra somehow. Valentine's Day was coming up . . . maybe he'd think of something and combine the two. Maybe he'd . . . Vin lost his train of thought as he watched Ezra get out of bed then pause to stretch before heading for the bathroom.

"Thank you, Lord," Vin said and quickly followed.

After their shower they enjoyed a cozy breakfast where he finally remembered to asked Ezra about the Travises. Apparently other than a few cuts and bruises they were both fine . . . just a little shaken up.

While Ezra called to check on them Vin ran across the yard to tell Chris that he would be spending the day with Ezra and not to expect to see either of them until later. If at all.

He was headed back toward the house when a truck pulled up in the yard. Vin tensed as he saw that it was Ronnie and another man.

"You Vin Tanner?" the man asked as soon as he stepped from the truck, with Ronnie fast on his heels.

"Yeah. Who the hell are . . . " the rest of that question was cut off as the man suddenly hit him. The surprise of the attack had Vin stumbling back rather than from the force of it. Wiping the blood from his chin Vin straightened his shoulders as the man came toward him again. The blow that Vin was ready to block never came.

Vin saw that Ezra, who seemed to have materialized as if from thin air, had caught the fist mid-swing in an iron tight grip, forcing the man to his knees.

"Mike!" Ronnie cried and took a step forward only to windup on the ground clutching his stomach where Ezra had spun around and kicked him.

"In order to hit Vin again, you'll have to go through me," Ezra tightened his hold on the man's fist. "And I don't think either of you can. But you're welcomed to try."

Vin could see the fear in both man's eyes at the look on Ezra's face. This is what he'd been afraid of. And as much as Vin loved having Ezra defend him, he knew he had to put a stop to this and now. "Ezra?" No answer. "Come on, Ezra, let go," he told him. Then whispered, "Ezra, please." That whisper did more than any shout could have.

Ezra released the man and send him sprawling back in the mud. "Are you all right?" he asked.

Vin nodded. "You?"

"I'm cool."

The Texan couldn't help, but smile at that. "You get any cooler and we'll end up in jail."

"Hey, I'm only defending what's mine," Ezra told those around him. "And he is mine. Make no mistake. I will not share," he went on to say looking directly at Ronnie and the man on the ground.

Ronnie nodded his head, yes. "I know that. I only came to apologize. Mike . . . "

"Apologize?" Ezra repeated, inching closer. "You call than an apology?"

"That's my fault," the man named Mike said holding his hand close to his chest. "I was suppose to stay in the truck, but I couldn't. I . . . he kissed him," he stated as he got to his feet.

Vin saw Ezra tensed at the reminder and quickly stepped in front of him.

"Move. I'm not afraid of him or you!" Mike boasted.

"Maybe you should be," a group of voices said from behind Vin. Turning they saw that Chris and the others had joined them.

"Are you all right?" Josiah asked.

"Yeah, that little shit didn't hurt me," Vin told him. "Who the hell are you anyway?"

"Ronnie's lover . . ."

"My sympathies," Ezra quipped. "But that's not what he asked you."

"Mike Henton . . ."

"Look Vin I'm sorry," Ronnie interrupted. "I never meant to cause trouble . . ."

"Then why do it?"

"Tell them the truth," Mike told Ronnie. "Then you can take me to the emergency room."

"Mike asked me to move in with him and I panicked," Ronnie said. "I thought I wasn't ready. I thought I wanted one last fling," he paused as Ezra growled, then with a nod from Vin continued. "Before tying myself down to just one man. But when I k . . . " Another growl from Ezra had him rephrasing that. "When I . . . you know all I could think about was Mike and how much I loved him. And how he was going to kill me once I got home."

"Pity he didn't."

"Ezra," Vin warned. "I understand. Things ok with you two now?"

"Who the hell cares!" Ezra growled. "You made your apology now get the hell off our land."

"Why don't you calm down?" Mike suggested.

Vin quickly grabbed Ezra and was relieved when Josiah came to stand beside the Southerner and Mike.

"Why don't you make me," Ezra dared him.

"I really am sorry you guys." Ronnie cautiously stepped forward holding his hand out to Vin only to have Ezra slap it away before contact was made.

"Ezra, stop it!" Vin cried.

"I don't want him touching you!"

"It's just a hand shake! Don't you trust me?" Have I killed that, he silently wondered.

"Of course, I trust you . . ."

"Then 'trust' me," Vin said. Seeing the fire in Ezra's eyes had Vin thinking just how beautiful his lover's truly was. But knew he wouldn't dare say that to Ezra. At least not any time soon.

"Fine!" Ezra said pulling away from Vin. "Shake the bastard's f** hand!"

"Where are you going?" he asked.

"Inside."

"But . . ."

"You're not my wife Vin, so quit nagging," Ezra told him.

Vin flinched and knew he deserved that. Hell, he deserved a lot worse. Specially if what he was feeling right even came close to what Ezra felt when Vin said the same to him.

"You have three minutes," his lover threw over his shoulder.

"Shake the man's hand and let's get the hell out of here," Mike said. "Now!" he prompted when the other man just stood there.

"Good luck man," Vin said as he shook the man's hand. He nearly laughed as Mike suddenly hollered for Ronnie to get in the truck 'cause they were going home. And Ronnie did.

"What are you laughing at?" Chris asked.

"I never thought I'd see the day that Ronnie would be ordered around like that," he told them. "Man, he is so whipped. You won't see me jump like that . . ." Suddenly his name was hollered out causing Vin to jump.

Looking at each of his brothers Vin raised his chin and stated, "I'll go when I'm ready . . ."

"VINCENT JAMES TANNER!"

"Oh, shit," he mumbled and began backing away.

"You ready yet?" Buck asked with a grin.

"Yeah," Vin said in a shaky voice, then hurried inside.

Ezra had gone inside and immediately began pacing back and forth between the kitchen and the livingroom. Trying to work through his anger. Trying to remember his promise to Vin. He'd heard someone pull up earlier and had glanced out the window just in time to see Mike Henton hit Vin and he lost it, especially when he saw Mr. Davis rushing forward. The next thing he knew he was outside grabbing one man and kicking another. He smiled because Ezra didn't even remember moving away from the window.

He heard the truck leave and darted for the coach not wanting Vin to see him pacing. But Ezra shouldn't have bothered because Vin hadn't immediately returned to the house. Getting to his feet Ezra went to the door and hollered his lover's name. Still no Vin. Feeling his temper once again surge to life Ezra bellowed his lover's full name. And was rewarded as Vin hurried into the house.

"Are they gone?" Ezra asked before Vin had a chance to say a word.

"Yeah . . ."

"Good. Now sit down," he said pointing to one of the kitchen chairs.

"Ezra . . ."

"Sit."

Vin sat.

Ezra grinned at the way Vin sat perfectly still. It wasn't often he lost his temper with his lover, but when he did . . . Vin paid attention. He wasn't really anger with Vin, but he wasn't telling him that. Not yet. With a wash clothe in hand Ezra knelt in front of Vin and gently took his chin then turned it so that he could clean off the blood.

"Are you sure you're all right?"

"Yeah . . ."

"No loose teeth?" he asked. Then slipped a finger into Vin's mouth to check for himself. Ezra felt his pulse quicken as Vin captured Ezra's finger between his teeth and shook his head, no.

"Are you mad at me?" Vin asked around his still captured finger.

Ezra smiled at him and said, "I was never mad at you." The smile fell from his face as he continued, "I'm sorry for the way I reacted. Is that why you were worried?"

This time Vin smiled and finally released his finger, but held onto his hand. "Yes, but you reacted better that I thought you would have. I'm proud of you," he said.

"Proud? Really?" To his amazement Vin blushed. Ezra grinned at him and moved closer. "What is it?"

"I liked that you defended me. And that you told Ronnie that I belonged to you."

Ezra's grin grew at those words. It never ceased to amaze him the depth of emotions this simple man invoked in him. "I would proudly proclaim it before the world . . ."

"So would I," Vin vowed as he slipped from the chair and knelt in front of him. "I love you so much Ezra. So very much."

"I love you too, Vin," Ezra wanted to say more, but had his lips captured before he could. As always the touch of Vin's lips had him craving more. Ezra tangled the fingers of one hand in Vin's hair and angled his head to deepen their contact. While the other molded itself around Vin's jean clad ass.

Wanting . . . needing to touch what was his, Ezra pulled back and did something he hadn't done in a while. Grabbing the ends of Vin's untucked shirt he ripped the snaps apart making his lover gasp.

"Oh, God, Green Eyes, I love it when you do that," Vin shuddered then did the same to Ezra's shirt, only his shirt didn't have snaps on it and buttons went flying causing them both to grin.

Ezra eased Vin back onto the kitchen floor and had just settled on top of him when there was a knock at the door. "Why does this always happen?"

"Ignore it," Vin said, caressing his back.

"I can do that." Ezra smiled and latched onto the juncture of Vin's neck and shoulder. Working the spot with his teeth, tongue, and lips making his lover squirm and clutch him closer.

"E z r a," he moaned and rubbed against him.

"Hey guys!" they heard Buck's holler. "I hate to interrupt, but Ezra that damned horse of yours has done let Chris's horse out of it's stall and Chris is threatening to get his gun."

"Oh, shit!" Ezra muttered, jumped to his feet, and grabbed his jacket. "Have I mention lately how much I love my Christmas present."

Vin just laughed and pushed him toward the door.

It took them a couple of hours, but they finally managed to capture Chris's horse. Apparently Chaucer had let the animal loose then returned to his on stall.

Ezra made sure Chaucer's stall was securely tied shut all the while ignoring the glares being thrown his way by Chris.

"What? It's not my fault," Ezra finally told him.

"Damn, Vin where'd you get this horse? The circus," Chris quipped.

Vin shrugged and said, "Actually . . . Just kidding! I'm just kidding!"

A couple of days later Ezra leaded against the porch railing talking with Josiah and Nathan when they heard a vehicle approaching. Looking up they saw that it was Vin and Chris returning from town. Turning Ezra threw his right leg over the railing so that he now straddled it and grinned as his lover stepped from the truck and headed his way.

Not a word was spoken between them as Vin stepped up to him and clasped his jean clad leg. Oh, but those blue eyes spoke volumes and like a moth Ezra was powerless to resist the flame of love burning in their depths. Slowly closing the few inches between them they shared an all too brief kiss full of promise.

Vin pulled back and rubbed his nose against Ezra's then stepped back, still without saying a word. Ezra watched him and felt his face heat up as he realized Vin's older brothers had witnessed the kiss. Glancing at the other men Ezra opened his mouth only to shut it again as he realized that his mind was . . . completely blank.

"It's good to see things are back to normal between you two," Chris said with a smile.

"Yeah." Yeah? Ezra mentally shook his head. Oh, if my mother could see me now. "We finally talked and cleared up some things," he said with a smile. That's more like it, Ezra thought to himself.

Chris nodded his head, then motioned toward Vin. "Skinny little shit ain't he?"

Ezra laughed and replied, "Depends on one's view on the subject."

"Oh, yeah? And your's would be?"

"Well, after a very intensive study I'd have to say that your brother is . . . delectably slender . . ."

"It's the same thing!"

"No. It isn't," Ezra countered. "Skinny to me means boney and Vin is very well . . . developed." He laughed as Chris suddenly backed away.

"Ok, that's a little more information than I wanted," Chris said holding up his hands.

"I didn't mean in that way!" he corrected with a wide grin. "But now that you mention it . . ." Ezra let that trail off as Chris backed further away.

As they stood there they saw Vin leave the bunkhouse with something tucked under his jacket.

"He's up to something isn't he?" Ezra asked the blonde.

"Yeap."

"And you know what it is, don't you?"

"Yeap."

"I don't suppose you'll tell me what that is?"

"Nope," Chris said with a laugh.

Ezra grinned in response then threw his other leg over the porch railing and slid off the porch. "You know, Chris I really enjoy these insightful conversations ours," he quipped, causing the man to laugh even more.

"Patience is a virtue, Ezra."

With a roll of his eyes Ezra said, "Well as I'm sure any number of people will tell I'm short on patience and even shorter on virtues."

"That's why you and Vin get along so well," Chris replied with a grin.

Two days later Ezra woke really early. Even before Vin and carefully slipped from the bed. After grabbing a pair of sweats he headed for the kitchen to make a special breakfast for his Valentine. Half an hour later he returned to their room and carrying a tray which he placed on the bed side table.

Kneeling on the floor Ezra caressed his lover's sleeping face with his eyes before reaching out to brush the hair from his face. Never had Ezra seen anyone that looked as sexy asleep as when awake. But Vin did. Hell, the man looked sexy even when mucking out the stalls. Of course, the fact that he usually did so without a shirt on helped tremendously.

Ezra had push those thoughts from his mind or he knew that he'd never complete the rest of his plans.

Leaning forward he began brushing kisses across Vin's jaw until he reached his ear. "Time to wake up, Blue Eyes," he whispered then gave the ear a lick. Pulling back Ezra watched as Vin blinked his eyes open and smile at him. But before he could say anything Ezra said, "Happy Valentine's Day, Vin." Then took his lips in a slow sensual exploration.

"Mmmm," Vin all but purred as he licked his lips. "I like waking up like this."

Ezra grinned at him and gave him one last kiss then sat back. "Sit up before your breakfast gets any colder."

"You brought me breakfast in bed?" Vin asked as he sat up and leaned back against the head of the bed.

"Well, since we agreed not to do anything fancy or expensive . . . I thought I'd spoil you instead," Ezra grinned at him and placed the tray across his legs.

"Spoil me more you mean," his lover replied with a grin of his own. "Oooh, French Toast. Where's yours?"

"I've already eaten mine," he said, getting to his feet.

"Where ya going?" Vin asked as he took a big bite of food.

"I'll be right back," Ezra told him.

Vin forgot what he was doing as he watched his lover walked into the bathroom. He gave a slight jump as he felt something wet land on his chest. Looking down he saw that some of the syrup had dripped from his fork, but left since he figured him and Ezra were gonna share a shower Vin didn't worry about cleaning it off.

He made quick work of his breakfast and was just setting the tray aside when Ezra walked back in the room. "I kinda made a mess," Vin told him, indicating the several drops of syrup that now adorned his chest.

"Well let's see if I can't help clean you up," Ezra said, as he once again dropped to his knees.

Vin twined his fingers in Ezra's hair as his lover began licking the syrup from his chest. Tugging on that silky hair he pulled him up and captured his lips in a searing kiss. "Let's forget about the shower and just make love until neither of us can move," he panted into Ezra's mouth.

"Yes! Oh, yes!" Ezra cried out as he settled on top of him.

Running his hands down his lovers back Vin slipped them into Ezra's sweats and grabbed his ass to pull him closer. He eased one finger between Ezra's cheeks and began to tease his opening, causing his lover to squirm against him. Vin attempted to roll them over only to find himself pinned to the bed.

"Ezra?"

"This isn't part of my plans . . . At least, not yet," Ezra told him in a husky voice. Then with one last kiss he pulled him to his feet. "Come on."

Vin eagerly followed him. 'Course, right now he'd have followed Ezra anywhere. He quickly spotted the tub filled with bubbles. "You're gonna share that with me right?"

"Most definitely. I hope you don't mind the bubbles, but I wanted to treat your senses to something different," Ezra explained.

Vin pressed up against his back and said, "You're all the treat my senses need." Then pushed Ezra's sweats down being careful of his erection. He wrapped a hand around that pulsing shaft wanting to treat Ezra's senses as well.

"V i n," his lover growled as he stepped away from him. "Tub. Now."

"I thought you wanted to treat my senses," he grumbled and stepped into the tub. Then sighed as he settled into the warm scented water.

"Oh, I am, lover, I am," Ezra said. "Now, scoot up."

"Bossy this morning, aren't ya?" Vin grinned at him, but did as told. "This feels great, Ezra," he said as he leaned back against his chest. Vin shivered as fingers began to trace each of his ribs as they worked their way up to circle around his nibbles before lightly rubbing them into hard pecks. With a gasp his head dropped back to rest on Ezra's left shoulder leaving the right side of his neck exposed in an unspoken invitation. Vin groaned as teeth sank into his already tender flesh and a hand wrapped around his shaft in a firm grip.

"E z r a," he moaned and began to buck his hips. Between the fingers teasing his nipples, the teeth leaving a permanent brand behind, and the hand pumping him Vin was panting, squirming, and fast losing control. With a hoarse cry he erupted, shooting his essence clear to the other side of the tub.

Feeling totally boneless Vin welcomed the strong arms that enveloped him and kept him from sinking into the water. "Oh, God, Ezra you can treat my senses like that any time you want," he sighed in total contentment. Feeling the throbbing heat pressing into his back had Vin turning so that he now straddled his lover. "Take me, Ezra," he said as he took that heat into his hand. "Let me treat your senses." Vin rose to his knees trying to get closer, but there just wasn't enough room. "E z r a," he whined.

"Shh," Ezra soothed him and gave him a quick kiss. "Turn back around."

Vin quickly compiled and spread his legs as wide as the tub would allow. His mouth fell open in a wordless sigh as first one, then two, and finally three fingers began stretching him. "Now, Ezra," he pleaded, then whimpered as the fingers were removed. Vin shuddered as those glorious hands glided up the back of his thighs, over the curve of his ass, to gently grasp his waist. Then he was being guided into position. They both grunted with pleasure as Vin's opening was breeched and they were made one.

The lack of room hindered Ezra's movements, but not Vin's. At first he moved slowly wanting to savior their joining, but the feel of that pulsing heat moving deep within him had him fast losing control and he began grinding hard against Ezra's shaft. Vin didn't feel the fingers digging into his hip until they stopped him from moving. He was about to protest when he felt Ezra struggling to get to his knees. Not wanting to lose their connection a panting Vin grabbed the side of the tub and moved with Ezra. Leaning against the tub Vin welcomed the feel of his lover pressed up against his back.

"Okay," Ezra panted into his ear.

"Oh, yeah," Vin sighed, then moaned as Ezra began to move. Deep hard thrusts and the kisses along his back quickly had him flying over the edge and he screamed out at the rush of it all with Ezra soon following him. "Oh, God," Vin panted as they fell backwards in the tub almost sending water over the sides. Ezra wrapped his arms around him and held him in a tight embrace. Vin placed his hands on top of Ezra's and sighed.

"We need a bigger tub," Ezra mumbled in a sleepy voice few seconds later.

Vin laughed and agreed. Sitting up he moaned as Ezra slipped from his body. Turning Vin pulled Ezra to his knees and gave him a deep lingering kiss. Easing back he washed them off, got to his feet, and then helped Ezra to his. Stepping from the tub they quickly dried off then together they headed back to bed. Crawling under the covers Vin pulled Ezra snug against him and drifted off to sleep.

An hour later Vin blinked his eyes opened then grinned as thoughts of that morning came back to him. Treat his senses, he thought. Being here like this with Ezra was treat enough for him. He had never felt so content as he did laying here with Ezra. Vin trailed his fingers up Ezra's back until they disappeared in his lover's silky hair. He loved the feel of Ezra's body pressing into his. And as much as he wanted to stay right here and love the day away Vin knew he couldn't. He had plans of his own he had to finish. So reluctantly Vin eased out from under Ezra and got to his feet.

Once he was dressed Vin placed something on the pillow and gave Ezra one last lingering glance then forced himself out the door. With a happy contented smile playing at his lips he reached for his jacket only to have something fall out of it. Looking down Vin saw that it was a card. Squatting down he picked it up, removed the card from the envelope, and smiled at the big red heart on the cover with the words Happy Valentine's Day printed across the top. Opening it Vin softly read the words out loud, 'There are many different ways I could say I love you. Expensive gifts and song just to name two. But with you I know all I really need is to simply say the words, I love you. And I do.'

"I love you, too, Ezra," Vin whispered, slowly closing the card. His eyes drifted closed at the love swelling up within him. Opening his eyes he looked over his shoulder, in to their darkened bedroom, and fought the urge to crawl back into bed. With a sigh he got to his feet and placed the card back in the envelope then walked over and placed it on the counter separating the kitchen and the livingroom. Slipping his jacket on Vin threw on last look toward their room then headed outside.

On his way to the barn Vin put his hands in his pockets and slowed his steps as he felt something inside them. Closing his hands around the objects he pulled them out and opened them to reveal four pieces of candy. Vin grinned as realized just what kind of candy he held. "Hugs and Kisses," he shook his head. "Damn, Ez, you think of everything." After peeling one of the candies he popped it in his mouth and placed the rest back in his pocket for later.

Once inside the barn Vin headed for the feed bin and laughed as he saw a plastic zip-lock bag with a box of candy hearts inside it sitting on there. Picking it he opened the bag and removed the box. He frowned as he saw it had been opened, then shrugged because he would share the candy with Ezra anyway, so he figured it didn't matter. Unfolding the top Vin shook out some candy and grinned as he read what all six pieces of candy had printed on them.

"What are the chances of that happening?" he mumbled. Then cocked his head to the side as realized that with Ezra this could be no mere coincidence. After dumping the whole box Vin separated each of the messages. "Damn, Green Eyes, you did it again," he whispered with a slight catch in his voice as he looked at the candy . . . 'Luv U', 'Kiss Me', 'Be Mine', and 'Your Hot' were the only messages to be found in the box.

Putting the candy back in the box Vin gave it a kiss, put the box in his pocket and quickly feed the horses then climbed in his truck and went to work on his own surprise.

When Ezra woke a couple of hours later he immediately noticed the box of chocolate candies and an envelope sitting on Vin's pillow. Sitting up he pushed the hair out of his face and reached for the envelope first. Slipping the card free he then opened it felt tears sting his eyes as he read the message inside. 'I don't know anything about life being like a box of chocolate. All I do know is that no matter what life throws my way, I know I can handle it as long as I have you.'

Ezra ran a shaky finger over the words then placed a kiss to Vin's name before placing the card on the bedside table. Picking up the box of candy he tore off the paper and reached for what he hoped was a chocolate covered cherry. After taking a tentative bite Ezra discovered he had chosen well.

Getting up he walked over to the closet and saw a note pinned to the door. 'Hey Green Eyes, Listen I need you to be ready to go by six. Wear something warm. Like your sweats . . .'

"Sweats?" Ezra repeated with a frown. "Just where the hell is he taking me?" Returning his attention to the note he had to laugh as he continued reading.

'Yes, your sweats. And trust me . . . you'll love where I'm taking you. Love, Vin.'

With a shake of his head he grabbed a sweatshirt and a pair of jeans out of the closet, got dressed then headed over to the house.

The day passed quickly and before he knew it Vin was back from where ever it was he had disappeared to looking as wind-blown and sexy as hell.

"Hey, handsome!" Vin said as he walked into their house.

"Hey, stranger!" Ezra teased from where he sat on the couch.

"Where's your sweats?"

"You were serious?"

"Yeah," Vin replied, then climbed into Ezra's lap. "Easier access that way," he grinned.

Ezra gasped as Vin put his cold hands inside the collar of his shirt. "A..are you wearing them as well?"

With a nod and a kiss Vin got to his feet. "You change your pants while I shower . . ."

"Need help washing your back?" he offered, as he followed his lover picking up the clothes as Vin discarded them.

"We'll never leave the house if you do," Vin said then disappeared in the bathroom.

Ezra kicked his shoes off, removed his jeans, then reached for a clean pair of sweats. Once he was dressed again he went over to Vin's chest of drawers, grabbed a pair of sweats for him then headed for the closet and selected him a sweatshirt.

Hearing the shower stop Ezra threw the clothes on the bed and hurried into the bathroom and stood in the doorway quietly watching as Vin dried himself. His lover looked up and immediately blushed as he saw him watching. Ezra grinned as the towel hit him in the face. Reaching out he grabbed Vin around the waist as he made to go past him and pulled him back against him. Then pressed a kiss between Vin's shoulder blades.

"Ezra," Vin said as he pulled away. "We don't have time for this . . ."

"What? I only wanted to give you a hug," Ezra said with a twinkle in his eyes.

Vin snorted. "Yeah, like that's all you wanted."

"You know me so well," he laughed and jumped on the bed then watched as Vin got dressed. "So where are going dressed like this?"

"It's a surprise," was all Vin would say. "Come on, let's go."

Ezra followed and pulled the door shut and locked it behind them.

"What are you gonna do with that?" Ezra asked as Vin pulled a long piece of clothe from his pocket.

"What's the matter Ez, don't ya trust me?"

Ezra felt his pulse begin to race and sweat run down his back as he looked at the clothe. He couldn't help but step back or repeat his question. "Of course, but what are you gonna do with that?"

"It's a blindfold what do ya think?"

He took a deep breath and slowly release it. What the hell is the matter with you? Ezra asked himself. This is Vin! He's not going to take you somewhere and beat the shit out of you.

"Ezra? Are you okay?" Vin asked.

Ezra quickly nodded his head, yes. Then said, "Y..yes. I'm fine. Just . . . don't put it on too tight. Okay?"

"Course not. I don't want to hurt you, Ezra. I just don't want you seeing your surprise before we get there," he told him. "But let's wait until we're in the truck first. It's still kinda muddy and I wouldn't want either of us slip."

With a nod of his head Ezra climb into the truck then held his breath as the dark piece of clothe was placed over his eyes.

"Is that ok?"

Not trusting his voice, he only nodded.

"Hey, Ezra, you know I . . . uhm . . . didn't realized it, but I never wished you a Happy Valentine's Day," Vin told him. "Happy Valentine's Day, Ezra. I love you."

That did it. That released him from his fear and Ezra finally found his voice. "Thank you." It seemed as if they had just gotten in the truck when Vin came to a stop.

"Wait right there! I'll come around and get you," Vin said then grabbed his arm. "Better yet why don't ya just slide over here and get out on my side."

With Vin holding his hand Ezra stepped from the truck. They took a couple of steps then came to a stop.

"Okay. You can take it off now."

Ezra did just that and stared at the sight before him. It was one of the biggest, ugliest tents he had ever seen in his life.

"I know the tent's ugly as hell, but it's all I had," Vin laughed. "Come on, let me show you what I did."

The inside was lit by at least a dozen lanterns and was surprisingly warm. There was soft music playing, a table was set up on one side with some covered dishes, and two pallets. One near the food and the other sat in the corner. Both looked really soft and inviting.

"I couldn't build our house . . . our future," Vin whispered in his ear, causing him to shiver. Ezra went to turn around only to be held in place. "But I wanted us to spend the holiday here . . . on our land. I wanted us to have a picnic with finger foods, chilled champagne, soft music, chocolate covered strawberries, and candlelight. You know something really romantic. But it's too wet and cold for a real picnic and I was afraid the tent would catch on fire if I used candles," he grinned. "This was as close as I could get."

"It's perfect, Vin. I love it," Ezra said then turned to face his lover. Brushing the hair from Vin's face he wrapped his fingers around the back of Vin's neck, pulled him closer, and gave him a deep sensual kiss.

When the kiss ended Vin wrapped his arms tighter around Ezra and pulled him even closer. "I also wanted to apologize for all the shit I put us through," he said. Then touching their foreheads together he told him, "You are the best thing that has ever h..happened to me. And when I think about what could have happened . . . it scares me to death."

"Then don't think about it," Ezra told him. Intertwining their fingers he raised their hands and continued, "I could no longer survive without you than you could without me. And you don't owe me an apology. If you weren't worried about me then it never wouldn't have happened. So let's agree to forgive each other and move on . . ."

"Just like that?" Vin couldn't believe it would be that easy, but then with Ezra anything seemed possible.

"Yes, just like that."

"I love you, Ezra," he said.

"I love you, too, Vin."

Vin shivered and pressed closer to Ezra as those finger found their way into his sweatshirt. "Oh, no!" he cried pulling the hands away. "We're eating first. Then do a little dancing . . ."

"What kind of dancing?" Ezra asked with a wiggle of his eyebrow.

"That dance will have to wait," he said with a laugh. "Come on, let's eat." Vin motioned for Ezra to sit on the pallet then went then grabbed them some food.

The food was quickly finished as well as a bottle of champagne off the food and Vin now lay with his head on Ezra's stomach feeling very content, mellow, and on the verge of sleep. And since sleep wasn't part of his plan Vin got to his knees then to his feet.

"May I have this dance?" he asked with a twinkle in his eye.

"What kind of dance?" Ezra repeated his earlier question as he too his feet.

Vin grinned then shook his head. "Not yet, Ezra."

Taking Ezra's smaller hand in his Vin led him to the middle of the room then pulled him into his arms. He closed his eyes at how right him and Ezra fit together. "I love dancing with you," Vin told him.

"We're barely even moving. Are you sure this is dancing?"

"Are you complaining?" he teased, pulling back just a little.

"When have I ever complained?"

"Oh, never, Ezra. Never," Vin laughed.

Ezra rolled his eyes and buried his face in Vin's neck for a moment then mumbled, "It's funny how far dancing has come."

"What?" He shook his head. Ezra was almost as bad as JD about just jumping into a subject half way, leaving everyone else scrabbling to catch up.

"Dancing. You know it used to be that the only contact between couples were their fingers," Ezra explained, then stepped back, lifted Vin's hand, and demonstrated.

"Where's the fun in this?" Vin questioned with a frown, as they 'danced' in a circle.

"That was the whole idea," Ezra grinned. "You do know what dancing leads too, don't you?"

Vin shook his head, no.

"Touching . . ."

"Well, it does kinda goes hand in hand," he laughed.

"Yeah, I know," Ezra laughed as well. "Anyway, first it was fingers, then it came hands, and finally it was bodies," he grinned and stepped closer.

Vin nodded and wrapped his arms around Ezra's waist. "I like feeling the beating of your heart and your breath tickling my neck," he whispered.

"I like the steady beat of your heart under my ear and feel of your arms around me," Ezra told him. "But you know what I really like?"

"What?"

"Slipping my hands inside your pants."

Vin's breath caught as Ezra did just that.

"I like it even better when you do the same," he whispered. "I like it ever better when 'you' do the same," Ezra repeated then pinched him on the ass.

"Oh! Sorry," Vin laughed and slipped his hands inside Ezra's sweats to cup his ass and pull him closer. "I was kinda distracted. This is why I wanted you to wear these."

"I knew there had to be a reason," he said. "Now how about we do some real dancing," Ezra suggested and moved one of his hands around to caress Vin's semi-hard shaft.

Vin allowed the touch for a few seconds then stepped back before things got out of control. Then dropped to one knee and grinned as those green eyes widened.

"Ezra will you be my Valentine?" his grin grew.

"I thought for minute you were proposing," Ezra grinned at him.

"No, I'm saving that for another time."

"Not if I beat you to it and yes I'll be your Valentine . . ."

That's all Vin wanted to hear and surged forward, grabbed Ezra around the waist, and threw him over his shoulder. Then carried him over to the pallet in the corner and closest to the heater, laying Ezra down Vin then stretched out on top of him and with a wicked grin said, "Now . . . let's dance."

"Finally!"

The End