Story: Under Wraps
AU: Mopuro (info here)
Warnings: Slash!, language, eventual smut and M rating
Chapter Rating:PG 13
Legal stuff: Don't own. No profit.

Previous/Continuing chapters found here
Comments/Questions very welcome! email me

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Chapter 4

JD frowned, the action furrowing his dark brows deeply. His whole face became a scowl; he didn't trust that moustached man as far as he could throw him - and that wouldn't be very far at all. Even from his spot on the edge of the woods he could smell Ezra all over the tall man and he didn't like it. What were his intentions exactly? And why did he always smell so aroused? And why was he always covered with Ezra's scent?

"Bastard." JD scoffed, shifting his weight before creeping a few inches closer. He had been watching that moustached one, that 'Buck' since he got here. Something about him just rubbed the young Mopuro the wrong way. The way he was so tall and ambled about like he didn't have a care in the world. Well, damn him! If it weren't for him, Ezra wouldn't be hurt and potentially in danger.

The area seemed safe, he could smell that there were other Mopuro around, not too close but not far either. If they were willing to stick around then there wasn't a threat, although that did little to calm his nerves. Threats weren't always apparent, they could come from anywhere at any time. He wished now he had been able to get back in to talk with Ezra but he didn't want to risk it. They hadn't found out the half breed's secret yet so why should he jump up and clue them in? No, he'd just have to sit here and wait but while he did he was going to be of some use, he was going to keep his eyes and his nose on that tall, horny, moustached man and make sure that Ezra wasn't being abused.

He'd already been trailing him all day, since he put a foot out the door JD stuck to him like a shadow. He watched him feed the horses and check on the cattle, watched him mend a fence and now watched him simply walking around trying to look busy.

Buck stood up to stretch, scratching the back of his head uneasily. He couldn't help but shudder, what was wrong with him today? Hell, it was like someone had been staring at him, it made the hair on the back of his neck stand up as it didn't feel friendly at all. Did someone walk over his grave, as Josiah put it? Once again he peered in the direction it seemed to be coming from, but once again he saw nothing. This was starting to give him the willies.

The grass blew softly in the breeze, the leaves fluttered but nothing else moved. Buck eyed the cattle then his horse, neither of the animals were acting oddly, and a horse was the best tell for trouble a man could have. Well, if the horse was fine, then he should be fine, but why couldn't he shake that damn feeling?

Chris rode in from the east pasture, noticing the way his friend was standing and staring at nothing. While it was true that after the intial incident and addition of a fifth party to the ranch he had been stirred up; Buck had finally been acting a little more Buck-like as Josiah put it, but something in his stance seemed different now. There was no sign of jollity; his shoulders were tense and his fingers twitched by his side, ready to draw his gun in a moment's notice.

"Buck," Chris strode over to his friend, noting the puzzled look on his face. "What's wrong?"

"Uh, nothin'." Buck didn't sound too convinced, staring right at the bush JD hid behind but not seeing him. "Guess I'm feelin' a little superstitious today s'all."

Chris considered Buck, and then followed his gaze to the bush. Something sure had the big man's attention. They both stared for some time, seeing and hearing nothing but the usual sounds of the ranch around them. Now, that was odd. Chris shuddered to himself. Either Buck was on to something or he was contagious.

"Maybe you better go check on Ezra." he offered instead, frowning slightly; something just didn't feel right.

JD growled lowly in his throat, releasing a soft hiss. Damn! That's not what he wanted, now that tall fool was going in to check on Ezra - alone! The young Mopuro waited a moment before slinking through the woods, following Buck toward the house. Well, there's just no way he was going to leave Ezra totally alone with him, he could be close enough outside to smell but not be seen and if Ezra even broke a nervous sweat for any reason... JD made involuntary fists, staring daggers as Buck slipped in through the back door.

Buck Wilmington found himself grinning, automatically forgetting his superstitious feelings the moment he set foot in the house. Now he got to go check on Ezra! It was well after lunch, but not near enough to dinner time, so rightly he should be out doing his chores, but now... and his grin widened, a little bounce appearing in his step as he moseyed down the hall. He almost couldn't contain himself, gripping the edge of the door, swinging himself into the room easily.

"Hello, Ezra!" he called cheerfully. He knew he wouldn't startle the man; he'd made enough noises thumping his way down the hall.

Ezra sat on the bed as usual, shifted slightly so he was leaning against the headboard and the wall. He had been engrossed in another book, but his attention drifted and his eyes flickered up to meet Buck's gaze. "Good afternoon once again, Mule. To what do I owe the pleasure? Or have I simply become unaware of the hours melting away and it is time for supper?"

"Not quite time yet." Buck's voice was sing songy and full of glee as he tip toed into the room. "Chris said I ought to come in and check on ya."

Green eyes twinkled momentarily with amusement at the tall man's actions. "Mr. Larabee suggested you discontinue your chores to simply come in and ascertain my well being?"

"Wellll," Buck held the word out unnaturally long, almost leaping happily into the chair next to the bed. "I had me a weird feelin' outside and Chris caught a sniff of it. Felt like someone might be hangin' around, watchin' me."

JD, Ezra knew it. He feigned concern. "Perhaps it was simply a trick of the imagination; however, I thank you kindly to think to regard my well being just in case."

"My pleasure," Buck leaned forward over the chair back, pointing to the book on Ezra's lap. "Whatcha readin'?"

"A tragic love story." Ezra drawled, flipping the book over carefully. "It's actually quite sad though engrossing. I can't seem to put it down."

Buck cocked his head, taking the moment to remove his hat and wipe his brow with his sleeve. "You like love stories? You seem more like the adventure type to me."

"I like all stories," Ezra offered, pointing to the stack of books. "I hope I get a chance to read every one of these before I have to leave." He caught himself, flushing slightly when their gazes met. "Uhm, that is to say, when I am well enough to depart."

"Oh, sure." Buck's voice was soft as he eyed the hat on Ezra's head, and then let his gaze travel down to his ankle. It was rather swollen and bruised straight through. He claimed it no longer throbbed, unless he tried to move but it looked real nasty and painful. "I don't think you'll be leaving for a little while yet, that looks mighty bad still."

"Oh, that's a shame." Ezra tried to hide his happiness at hearing that. While he didn't enjoy being bedridden, these days of rest and reading had him truly happy. He enjoyed the company of the men, the food, the sounds and smells of the ranch, it was peaceful and it sure beat wandering aimlessly.

"Anxious to go?" Buck fished, scraping his nail at the grain of the wood in the chair.

"Well, you know," Ezra pushed the book off of his lap, stretching his arms behind his head ostentatiously. "A man could get used to this, relaxing in the comforts of a feather bed, a stack of books to read, a Mule to wait on him hand and foot.

"Hey now." Buck protested but a warm smile spread over his face anyways.

"It seems a shame that I'll be leaving soon. I've spent my time recumbent and have not been able to see any of the sights on your Ranch. That will be strange, to have spent so much time here and yet know nothing of the beauty outside."

"As soon as your ankle heals you don't have to light a shuck," Buck rested his hand on Ezra's blanket covered leg, giving it a playful shake. "Besides I know Nathan, even when you get up and about again he'll want to keep an eye on you for a day or two. You'll have to build your strength back up walkin'. You should be able to saddle a horse then an' I can show you around."

"Why thank you, Mule." Ezra grinned, biting his tongue to suppress the small giggle that threatened to escape. He was rather interested in seeing the Ranch, it seemed so lovely here.

Buck grinned in a sloppy manner, looking down at the sheet in feigned interest. He wondered if he could just ask Ezra to take his hat off? Wait, but how would that conversation go? Please take your hat off so I can see if you have secret ears on top of your head? He was sure the man did but on the very slim and off chance that he did not, there was no use in making a fool out of himself. Buck frowned at the idea, the action making his dark brown moustache wiggle across his face. Hell, he didn't want Ezra to think he was stupid, or crazy! No, he'd have to find a way to get that hat off and make it look like an accident, or maybe sneak in while he were sleeping. Scrap that, as quiet as Buck could be when he wanted, he knew he wouldn't be able to sneak up on a man like Ezra. Hell, he probably slept with one eye open.

"Buck?" Josiah rapped on the door gently, stepping into the room getting the attention of both men. "Good afternoon, Ezra. Hope I'm not interrupting?"

"Mr. Sanchez." Ezra smiled genuinely at the big, bear of a man. "It's a pleasure, as always."

"Hey Josiah," Buck motioned him in casually. "Come on in, we were just jawin' in here."

"Chris told me about your feelings earlier." Josiah looked at Buck, but took in Ezra's reaction from the corner of his eye. "There might be someone lurking around the Ranch?"

Ezra wet his lips, looking down to fuss over his blanket suddenly, pretending not to be interested in the conversation at hand. Josiah had a hunch that it might be another Mopuro, one that perhaps was friends with Ezra or could at least smell one of its own kind mixed in with humans.

"Oh yeah, it was real weird, Josiah. I could feel eyes on me but there was nothing there! I looked all around and saw no sign or tracks. The horses didn't seem spooked so maybe it was just me makin' a big deal outta nothin'."

"You came in to check on our mending friend, did you?" Josiah smiled warmly, changing the subject. "I take it all is well?"

"Right as rain!" Buck slapped the back of the chair, bouncing slightly. "Ezra here was just saying it was a shame not to see the Ranch being cooped up in this here room, so I was tellin' him that before he left we'd be sure to give him the grand tour."

"Of course, we insist." Josiah beamed proudly; he put in as much work at the Ranch as the two owners did.

"I look forward to the adventure." Ezra's voice was slightly softer now. Damn, JD was most assuredly spending his days glaring at Buck, thinking him a threat. Although, he had noticed the Mule's eyes drifting to his hat a few times during their conversation, so perhaps the young Mopuro was correct? Perhaps Buck was a threat to his well being? Ezra looked cautiously up at the man who was now bantering with Josiah about the Ranch. Evidentially, something was found humorous as Buck howled with laughter and slapped his knee; Josiah just chuckled softly in response. Well, Ezra relaxed slightly, as much of a threat as a lumbering, oafish Mule could be.

"I'll send Nathan in." Josiah was speaking to him again now, so he shook his head and tuned back into the conversation at hand. "I think he better take a look at your ankle, make sure you're healing up right."

"Much obliged, sir." Ezra tipped his hat, taking note that his wrist was starting to feel better. As much as the loss of leg mobility worried him, he felt increasingly better to have the use of both hands. With one gun he was good, with two, even better. At least no one would get the jump on him in that sense.

"And Brother Buck," Josiah blinked largely for show at the younger man before speaking. "I believe it is your turn to muck out the donkeys this afternoon."

Buck's face fell, and then turned to a pout when the Southerner barked out a laugh, unable to hide his amusement.
Despite the look Buck was giving him, he let the little giggle fit continue until the tremors barely rocked his body.

"Mr. Wilmington is very good at shoveling shit." Josiah flashed a wide grin now.

"Oh my, well met, Mr. Sanchez." Ezra bit his tongue at Buck, a bratty smirk taking its place soon after.

"Well don't you worry, Ezra." Buck patted his leg sympathetically. "I'll be sure and tell Nathan to bring in some of that green healin' remedy you love so much."

Ezra's face suddenly fell stoic. "You wouldn't dare."

"You gotta rest up!" Buck gestured widely, placing his hat back on his head, tipping it in Ezra's direction. "I'd just feel so guilty if you didn't heal properly on my account." he grinned cheekily, ducking out of the room. "See you at dinner!"







Three very long, grueling hours and a bath later, Buck found himself freshly redressed and shaved in the kitchen. Without really thinking, he had put on one of his best shirts and handkerchiefs, having already brushed and styled his dark chocolate hair the best to his ability. His hat he left on the back of the chair but his guns were in place, his guns were always in place.

Now the tall man stood contemplating what to make for their supper. He didn't want to make the same old thing, but then again the list of foods he knew and knew how to make was short. He could make a nice, hot apple pie. They had plenty of apples and Ezra was sure to like it, who didn't like apple pie? But that would be dessert, what could they have for supper?

His mind wandered as he stared blankly at the wall, hoping the answer would appear before him. Chili flashed through his mind yet he was almost embarrassed to make it and offer it to the rather classy gambler that occupied his bed; and his thoughts. Well, he did say he'd eat chili and it was something they hadn't eaten in a few days, so why not?

Moving with a purpose, the tall man gathered the ingredients he'd need, humming softly to himself. What had come over him? He understood his punishment but normally, after a few days, even he would begin to complain about having to do all the cooking or at least thinkin' up all the meals. It didn't seem to bother him now; he actually looked forward to it. That probably has a lot to do with the man in your bed, his brain chided. The way he looks at you when you bring him in the food and the way he smiles when he eats it. Shh! He scolded his own mind, furrowing his brows.

"Hush up now," he whispered, wiping his hands on his pants. "It's cookin' time."

That settled it, for the time being, allowing him to at least get the meat on to cook. He worked in silence until his brain decided to rebel on him once again. Bucklin, you great fool, don't act like you don't know what's going on. You like having him here, you want him to stay. No no, he scoffed, what kind of nonsense is that? That wasn't true at all.

Kinda nice waking up to someone in your bed, isn't it? He frowned at the thought, arguing internally. He'd long figured that waking up with the same person too often would get very boring, that sort of thing just wasn't for him. Lately though, he found it extremely comforting to get up in the morning and find Ezra in his bed. The way the man slept, the way those green eyes would stare at him, hell, the way the man teased him and called him a mule. Mule, damnit all to hell. Buck found himself actually anticipating the term. In fact, he slapped his palms on the counter, blushing slightly to himself. Why did it seem like the day hadn't really begun until Ezra called him a mule?

Why did it make him as giddy as a young girl to see that man smile at him from his bed? Because it was his bed?

"Shit," Buck swore under his breath, realizing the connection. Ezra was in his bed, in his night shirt, reading his books, drinking his whiskey and somehow his goofy brain had translated that information to Ezra belonging to him. That was just absurd, he didn't really think that way, did he?

"And why would I want him to belong to me anyways?" he rationed out loud, going back to the onions he had been chopping.

This was all just something new and fun. It took the monotony out of everyday life and that had to be the reason he was drawn to it, the sole reason. The supreme and only reason! Yup, that's it, he'd figured it out. Just like switching bed partners for the newness of it, Buck was attracted to this situation because it was new.

Oh yeah, his brain decided to pipe up again, so why did you make a fool out of yourself this morning when Nathan tried to bring Ezra some juice? Remember what you did? Remember how you practically leapt over the breakfast table and grabbed it from his hand? What was that all about then? You didn't want to share him, did you? You wanted to bring him the juice. Why? Because he'd smile at whoever brought it to him, wouldn't he? That little dimpled smile with that gold tooth winkin' at you. You didn't want him to smile at anyone else but you, did you?

"Yes, damnit!" Buck thumped his head down into the counter, groaning softly to himself. I only want him to smile at me like that, what the hell is wrong with me?








Outside, JD squatted in the bushes next to the kitchen window. The moustached man had gone inside to bathe, but now he was in there, cookin' or something. It perplexed the young Mopuro, smelling the emotions coming off the bigger man. He smelled scared, confused, happy and aroused all at once. What a weird human. And why was arousal always one of his emotions, even when they were mixed?

"I know why, he wants Ezra." JD grumbled to himself, feeling his hair stand on end. That big fool was going to try something, he just knew it. Ezra was laid up in bed, totally helpless and this big buffoon was going to take advantage of the situation! He'd probably throw his enormous body on top of Ezra and slobber all over him like a big, horny dog!

"Poor Ezra." he frowned to himself again. Ezra was not a full Mopuro, so JD never expected him to act like one. Then again, he wasn't a full human either, so it left him somewhere in between. Ezra was probably the most cultured, well mannered gentleman JD had ever known, or would ever know. The man had hands cleaner than most girls, softer too. Just picturing Ezra, being so proper and polite sitting on that bed and then imagining Buck ambling in, jumping on top with a loud 'yee haw!' had JD making fists. Ezra would protest, eloquently of course but with his hurt wrist and hurt ankle he wouldn't be able to do much. No, no help! Ezra would cry, but the moustached villain would only grin and rip Ezra's clothes off! Oh no, not those pretty clothes, Ezra loved them so much.

"That bastard!" JD sat angrily, letting his back rest against the wall of the house; already damning Buck like the deed had been committed.

Well he wasn't about to let Ezra be violated by such a horny creature, that's for sure. He was gonna stick to that tall, hairy buffalo if it's the last thing he did. If the man moved? JD would be right there with him. Even if he had to break Ezra out of this place like a prison, he swore he wasn't going to just let bad things happen to him.

The young boy was no fool; he could smell other Mopuro in the area. A different tribe but if it came down to it, he'd ask for help. No Mopuro was about to let another be abused by a human. And what's worse! If that hairy buffalo did violate Ezra, he'd surely find his ears and tail! Ezra was real good at hiding his tail but well, when it came to sex... JD had read a book! He knew what it involved and sometimes it involved being naked, he was pretty sure Buck would see the tail then, even he couldn't be that blind.

Big hairy pervert. JD growled and sank to his feet, letting himself calm down. If he acted too quick he might endanger Ezra, he had to relax. Buck was only making food and something about the blonde man, well; JD blushed, kicking at the dirt. He liked that blonde man. He seemed tough and in control, he said something and the others did it but he wasn't mean about it. It was just natural. The blonde man, Chris, kept Buck in line. And from what JD could tell, Chris wouldn't allow Buck to violate his friend. It made him feel a bit better to think on it. And what about that big man, Josiah? He wouldn't let Buck do anything bad. JD could tell that too, just from the way the older man spoke.

It was times like these JD envied Ezra a little. He wanted to talk to Josiah, he wanted to hear the stories the preacher told. He could, it wasn't forbidden to interact with humans, hell, Ezra was proof enough of that. He'd just have to use his better judgment. Still, leaping out of the woods at an armed man suddenly was never a good idea. Nor was flashing a tail or set of ears. JD pouted to himself and sank a little lower, letting his mind wander to a fantasy.

He'd show that blonde how he could rope and ride, and Chris would smile at him in a proud manner. Then he'd join Josiah, showing the big man how hard he could work and listen to the wise things he said. Finally, JD would enter the Ranch at the end of a long day. He'd curl up by the fire, right next to Ezra; laying his head on his friend's lap as the sweet Southerner read him a story and gave him candy. Yeah, he grinned, twisting a stick in circles, that'd be great! And Buck? Well, he'd be there to make the food sure, but he wouldn't be anywhere near Ezra!

In his little fantasy he imagined Buck entering the room, starting to head toward the gambler but JD would sit up, growling and hissing to keep him away. Buck would slink out of the room sheepishly, admitting his defeat. Then Ezra would hold JD tight and thank him, give him a sweet kiss and nuzzle his neck. Ezra would call JD his little one, like JD loved and he'd be protected and safe.

At night, when the men retired for the evening, Ezra and JD would go to their own room, where Buck couldn't follow. JD would smirk at Buck as Ezra grabbed him by the wrist and drug him off to bed. Buck would look so upset! JD giggled to himself, picturing this imagery. Mmm, what a wonderful fantasy to have on such a sunny day.





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Let's see here, eggs, bacon, fresh hot biscuits, fried potatoes, coffee and fresh milk. Buck smiled at the tray of food, stepping quietly down the hall. He'd awoken earlier than usual and just couldn't get back to sleep, instead he made a huge meal, leaving enough for the others when they arrived and then he carefully arranged a tray for Ezra. This was going to be so good, he thought happily, creeping down the hall in case the man was still asleep.

The bedroom door was ajar, Buck insisted. If Ezra needed something in the night and called out, well, Buck had to be able to hear him from the couch. He could see the sunlight pooling into the hall, knowing the room would be bright enough to see made him even happier and he hoped Ezra was still asleep. The man looked downright angelic when he slept.

With a soft exhale to calm his nerves, Buck pushed his back to the door gently, opening it enough so he could enter with the tray. The room was quiet and still, though the sun streamed in, warming it nicely and giving everything a soft golden glow. His eyes stole to the bed seeing the gambler sprawled in a careless manner, limbs going every which way. This had the tall man smirking to himself, how unlike Ezra to look so, what's that word he liked? Uncouth. Splayed out, one arm and leg dangling from the edge of the bed, mouth slightly open, hat knocked off...

Buck's hands shook and it took all his effort not to drop the breakfast tray or sink to his knees. Oh God, the hat! It was off! He swallowed hard, feeling a tingle of excitement flare through his blood and pool in his crotch. He scolded himself for that, looking for a place to set the tray. Hell, if seeing a man's hat off got him so excited he better make a trip into town and let off some steam.

He crossed the room painfully slow to the dresser, not wanting to wake the man up and miss his chance. It seemed like the whole universe was against him at the moment, the floor creaked loudly, the tray rattled and jostled the silverware when he set it down, he was tempted to leap across the room, pin the other man to the bed and search that scalp like he were mining a gold vein. With his hands finally free he held his breath, afraid even the soft exhales of breathing could wake the other man, and with a slight grimace he turned once again to face the bed.

Luckily, for him, Ezra hadn't moved. He could see his hair, messy and sticking almost straight up for the loss of his hat and what Buck assumed to be writhing in his sleep. That train of thought flew from his mind almost instantly as he took in the new view. Ezra was splayed alright, legs parted and thrown different ways, one thrown up over a pillow, lifting his thigh and hip slightly before it dangled off the edge to the floor. The action had the night shirt ridden up almost around his waist and the bigness of the shirt on the smaller man in general had the collar pulled down, exposing one soft shoulder.

Buck felt the vision physically, almost doubling over as it slammed him in the gut. That strong thigh, clinging to the pillow, thrown up so enticingly that hot blood from earlier pooled even faster in his groin. Good Lord! He bit his lip hard, squirming on the spot. He shouldn't look like this, but even as he thought it he bent to get a better view. His eyes trailed up that thigh, his tongue wetting his lips hungrily though he hadn't thought to do so. He knew Ezra wasn't wearing anything under that night shirt.

A quick glimpse to the back and he frowned that the night shirt covered the man's ass still, as he had been a little curious but ducking lower in his posture he could see between the man's legs now. The angle and the light hinted things but didn't show clearly, the outline of the very thing that made Ezra a man had Buck clawing his fingers down his own pants, trying to stop his hands from shaking. A peak of reddish brown curls teased him further, pulling a soft groan from his throat. This was torture! Hat forgotten, Buck argued with himself, wanting instead to go over to the bed, flip that night shirt up and explore with his hands, and hell, he might as well be honest, his moustache twitched with the urge to tickle Ezra in that very private region.

Movement stilled him, Ezra shifted, rolling as he started to awaken. The movement flashed Buck a full glimpse of the area he'd just been ogling and he couldn't help but moan softly out loud. Lord, Buck loved to be teased and this was better than a saloon show.

"Mule?" Ezra's Southern accent was thick and deep with sleep as his head lifted from the bed in alarm. One eye remained shut squinting from the brightness of the room but the other, blinked repeatedly, trying to focus.

"Yeah, pard?" Buck blushed at how husky his voice sounded. Damn but he was aroused! "I brought you a special breakfast."

"Mmm?" Ezra moaned softly in his sleepy state, stretching. "Breakfast?"

The noise was like a hand tickling a finger down his length, barely enough to feel but enough to making him start leaking despite himself. A sleepy voice and an aroused voice sounded very similar and Buck's brain was having a very hard time distinguishing the two.

"Are you hungry?" he squeezed his legs together tight, willing the reaction to go away but it was far too late for that now.

"Ah suppose Ah could eat, it smells wonderful." Ezra squirmed, shifting to his stomach, sitting up on his elbows.

The thickness of that accent flowed even more like honey now and Buck had to whimper. Get a hold of yourself, man! He grumbled, turning to face the dresser. Just bring him the tray and get out of here before you do something stupid. He walked awkwardly to the dresser, trying to shift himself in his pants and not be obvious. And then, once you're out of the room, go find some place real private like and take care of this problem, his brain chided him. Stuff your hand down your pants like a big, oafish mule and tug yourself off thinking about Ezra.

"What delicious meal have you decided to bless me with this fine morning?" Ezra tried to shake the cobwebs from his mind. It was far too early to be alert. His sleep lidded eyes blinked, trying to focus on the black object in front of him. What is that? He blinked harder, widening his eyes in an attempt to clear the fog. Oh, it was just his hat, with his eyes so bleary it looked like a cat momentarily. Shit! His hat! He yelped out loud, diving for the item, fully awake now, the adrenaline pouring through him like hot acid as his stomach seemed to rise in his throat. He gripped his hat, pulling it tight on his head at the same time rolling quickly to face Buck, had he seen?!

Buck had his back toward the bed, fussing over the tray but he heard the yelp, the sudden movement and then the sharp bark of pain. He turned to face the bed, a worried look on his handsome face seeing the gambler sitting up now, hat on his head but his hands were working feverishly over his shoulder.

"Ezra?" he took a step forward, noting the pained expression. "You alright, pard?"

Ezra calmed down a bit, his heart beat returning to regular. No, Buck hadn't seen, he didn't have that good of a poker face, the gambler was sure of it. "An old injury," he grimaced, rubbing at his shoulder in a desperate attempt to soothe the now pulled muscle. "I must have slept in an awkward manner, shifting seems to have provoked it."

In three large strides Buck was by the bedside, his big hands moving toward the recently reinjured man. Ezra recoiled, his hands flying up to grip his hat tight to his head but instead, the tall man's hands gripped his shoulder. Those big hands kneaded gently, immediately easing the sharp ache the angry muscle created.

"What do you suppose you're doing?" Ezra stammered, trying to squirm away.

"Relax, Nathan ain't here yet but he can have a look when he arrives. I know this helps, I've done it before myself."

"I don't need..."

"Just let me help."

"Yes, but I don't..." Ezra tried to protest, he really, truly did. The words died in his throat and turned into a soft moan of appreciation when Buck's agile fingers found the particularly incensed knot and eased it quickly.

"See?" Buck offered, hoping Ezra hadn't heard his voice crack just then. He really had to stop with those little moans or Buck was going to lose it. Suddenly it dawned on him that in this position, Ezra was eye level with his crotch. He blushed furiously, knowing the large, straining bulge was painfully apparent. If Ezra turned slightly or opened his eyes...

Now Buck normally wouldn't force anyone, especially an injured man but he had no choice. He pushed and prodded on him, using his brute strength despite the protests and squirming of the smaller man, and pinned Ezra face down on the bed.

"Mule." Ezra's voice was dangerously low, a warning as his body tensed up considerably.

"Hush now," Buck ordered, hoping this would be enough to distract him. His hands returned to that shoulder, pushing the night shirt aside, exposing the flesh to his delighted eyes before he began to knead it in earnest.

"The pain has receded so..." Ezra stammered, trying not to arch back into the wonderful sensations. "If you'd kindly..." he scolded himself mentally. Lord Ezra, finish a damn sentence for once. Buck's fingers hit on a particularly tight knot, pulling a deep groan from Ezra. "L-lower." he demanded suddenly, arching off the bed.

Buck froze for only a second, swallowing hard, afraid he'd swallow his own tongue which suddenly seemed too big and foreign to his mouth. His fingers kneaded lower, working along the tight cord of the man's back, feeling the knot resist then give way to his ministrations. Ezra was squirming, outright writhing in pleasure. This was not the way a gentleman presented himself, and he'd surely have that argument later, when his brain was functioning properly. As it were, he lost himself in the pleasure, rolling his shoulders in a desperate attempt to direct the massage.

"To the l-left." he all but whispered, groaning again when Buck obeyed.

Poor Buck thought he couldn't get any harder than he was, until that particular moment. Ezra was wriggling and writhing beneath him, groaning and carrying on and he was afraid for a minute his cock would tear right out of his pants it hurt so much. "That feel nice?"

A low groan answered him. "Beyond exceptional, Mr. Wilmington."

Now he was panting, damnit. Buck Wilmington was standing above his own bed, massaging his hands across someone else's back, he himself not even having been touched once yet and he was panting like a dog in heat. His hips tried to draw him forward, he wanted to climb on the bed, flip Ezra over, and grind them together until they both came. And after that? Do it all over again. His happy fingers trailed lower, hitting the middle of Ezra's back where they trailed slower, wider circles, kneading the muscles like dough.

He stared down at the man, shifting his feet, debating throwing one long leg over the writhing mass that was Ezra but he had to try very hard to stop himself. The hat caught his attention, only momentarily. He could easily knock it off in this position but instead he focused on the man's neck, just below his hair line to the side. He looked hard and could actually see the pulse thrumming there; his mouth watered and he leaned forward without thought.

Ezra felt the weight shifting, the massage continued but halted every few seconds, the man obviously was losing his concentration. Suddenly, he felt Buck leaning over him, unaware he was resting his weight against Ezra's back. A moment later Ezra felt hot, moist breath against his neck, the faintest traces of a tickling moustache.

"Buck!" he shot off the bed, jolting like a startled jack rabbit with the moan that just left his lips. Damnit, he hadn't meant to moan but that breath, that wonderfully hot breath sent a jolt straight to his groin.

"Uh, oh." Buck stood up quickly, lifting his hands up, holding them in the air as he came back to his senses. What the hell did he almost just do? He was about to devour the man's neck. He cleared his throat. "How about that breakfast? Don't want it to go cold." he tried to sound cheerful and not disappointed, which he was; nor horribly turned on and denied, which he also was.

"That sounds lovely." Ezra's eyes swam in his head. Was Buck trying to kiss his neck or had he simply been trying to adjust the angle of the massage? He couldn't be sure. Either way it pulled a reaction from his traitorous groin and he wondered how he was going to lay on his back to eat for a moment with the literally pressing issue.

"I think you'll be satisfied." Buck smiled again looking at the tray; he really had gone out of his way with this meal.

Ezra took this time to roll over and sit up, placing a pillow over his lap, for the tray to rest on, he rationalized while curling his tail around his body. That had been close. He almost forgot about that appendage during the massage and thinking on it now, his tail had begun to swish happily from the ministrations. How the Mule had missed that he'd never know.

"And here we are!" Buck carried the tray over, his smile wide, growing wider at the delighted look on Ezra's face.

"My my," Ezra beamed, looking at the tray in wonderment. "You certainly went to great lengths for this meal."

"Well let's hope it tastes as good as it looks." he said softly, placing the tray on the pillow on Ezra's lap. He pulled the chair over, sitting quietly as Ezra situated his napkin and settled his silverware.

"I have no doubt of that." Ezra carefully lifted his knife and fork, gingerly cutting into one of the eggs. The yolk spilled easily onto the plate, filling it with its cheerful yellow hue. Buck frowned, watching as Ezra lifted the forkful and ate it carefully. "Somethin' wrong?" Ezra drawled, noticing the look on the Mule's face.

"That's not how you're supposed to eat eggs." Buck laughed, was the man this proper in everything he did? That thought almost stopped his brain, shifting him in his chair. Ok, best not to think of that now. "Here, let me show you."

Taking one of the biscuits, Buck tore it in half easily. He then placed a piece of bacon onto the top, dragging the whole item through the egg yolk until it was sopping wet.

"Eat with my hands?" Ezra looked unimpressed.

"Open wide." Buck encouraged, holding up the dripping piece of biscuit and bacon.

"I will not." Ezra crossed his arms.

"Don't be a baby and just try it." Buck smiled, seeing that the baby comment worked. Green eyes narrowed as his mouth parted slightly, offering a place to deposit the food. He lifted with one hand, cupping the other hand underneath lest any spill. He figured Ezra would throw a fit if he got dirty from eating. To his surprise, the gambler let him push the food into his mouth, slowly closing his lips after to not accidentally nip Buck's finger.

Ezra chewed, noticing how Buck didn't seem to be breathing, waiting for his assessment. It made him smile around his mouthful. "It's a rather robust combination of flavors." he drawled, watching as Buck's fingers moved toward his mouth.

"You got it on your lip." Buck smiled with his eyes, running his thumb along that smooth, pout lower lip to gather the yolk that clung there.

"How uncouth of me." Ezra whispered, not noticing the smile widen at the use of that word.

"Down right barbaric." Buck teased, forgetting himself a moment, rubbing his yolk covered thumb across those inviting lips. His body seemed to like to react on its own accord, whether his brain wished it to or not. That thumb suddenly pushed itself gently and just partially into the warm mouth it rested near.

His thought process promptly screeched to a halt when Ezra's tongue slid forward, gently lapping at the yolk on his thumb. He couldn't tell if his jaw dropped open but breathing was suddenly both harder and easier somehow. Ezra's eyes seemed to turn darker as they lidded, he appeared miles away from the situation.

Buck's naughty persistent hand pushed his thumb into the other man's mouth, feeling those lips wrap around it with soft suction. Ezra forgot himself as he suckled Buck's finger, his tongue lashing ever so gently over the digit.

Buck groaned deep in his chest, his own eyes lidding. Oh damn, that felt great. His hand pulled free, reaching for the plate blindly, running through the runny egg yolk. Ezra barely blinked before he was presented with Buck's now soaked pointer and middle finger which pushed easily into his mouth. Without missing a beat he suckled those two fingers a little harder, daring a look at the tall man's face.

Those fingers worked in and out of his mouth, slowly penetrating the hot little cavern, tickling against his tongue in a teasing manner. Buck stared hard at that mouth, loving the way his fingers disappeared inside it, not even realizing glazed, green eyes were fixated intently on his face. He bit his lip hard, a soft moan escaping a moment later when Ezra lashed his tongue across the invading fingers.

A moment later, Buck pulled his hand free, with some effort as Ezra didn't seem to want to let it go. He wetted it with yolk again sloppily, shifting closer and he pushed those fingers back into the man's mouth. Ezra groaned, sitting up, grabbing Buck's hand as he worked his mouth up and down those long teasing fingers. He bobbed his head, glancing up again to make eye contact finally. Buck stared hard, mouth definitely open now, his breath panting out of him. He moved forward, leaning over the back of the chair to wrap his hand around the back of Ezra's neck. He used this new purchase to tug the man toward him.

Ezra released Buck's fingers, letting himself be drawn closer unable to stop licking his lips. He watched Buck's wet, pink tongue slip out and moisten his lips suddenly realizing the big man was going to kiss him.

"Mule..." he half whispered, half moaned, tilting his head just slightly.

The door banged open behind them loudly, causing both men to nearly leap out of their skin. Ezra felt his color drain and the trance was broken, shifting quickly across the bed away from Buck. Buck just whipped around, half ready to fight half ready to cry from the pressure in his groin.

"Morning." Chris smirked almost knowingly, his gaze flickering to Buck's crotch then his face. "Nice to see you up."


<-- Chapter 3 | Chapter 5 -->

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