Heavenly Bodies

Title: The Fine Line
Authors: M. Edison and Christina A.
Fandom: Magnificent Seven/Highlander
Pairing: Vin Tanner/Grace Hammond (OFC)
Characters: Vin Tanner, Chris Larabee, Buck Wilmington, Ezra Standish, JD Dunne, Josiah Sanchez, Nathan Jackson, and Grace Hammond
Category: Crossover, Romance, Het
Warning: Explicit Sex and Language
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: The concept of the television series based on the movie is owned by Beers, Pensham, and Lewis. MGM holds the rights to Magnificent Seven and the concept of Highlander is owned by Davis-Panzer. However, I do own Grace Hammond. And I, in no way, make any money from this story.
Author’s Notes: This story is a prequel to the ‘Destiny’ series. It is an important ‘moment’ in Grace’s development.
Archive: At Ink-and-Quill

“Fine line between hunter and hunted.” — Vin Tanner, Nemesis.

Summary: Magnificent Seven meets Highlander (OFC).

*-*-*
The Fine Line
by Christina A. and M. Edison

Waking earlier than usual, Vin Tanner found he couldn’t sleep so –– rather than just lie in his bunk – the tracker decided to get up and go for a ride. Four Corners had been remarkably quiet for several days and he felt a bit itchy. Like something was tugging at the small hairs on the back of his neck, something was about to happen but he didn’t know what.

As he pulled on his clothing, he shrugged it off as just bein’ stir crazy and resolved to spend the day out riding. Wasn’t a good idea for a man to let himself get too bored…That always lead to trouble and trouble was the last thing Vin needed to stir up. He got plenty of that by riding with the Seven.

Once out in the cool pre-dawn morning, he inhaled the crisp air and nodded. Fall was fast approaching. That was good…it meant the blistering heat wave would pass off soon and couldn’t go fast enough in his opinion.

Was hot enough in the territory when there wasn’t a heat wave on.

*-*-*

Mounting his horse, Vin waved to a sleepy JD – who stood on the boardwalk before the sheriff’s office – as he passed by on his way out of town.

The morning proved to be another scorcher so, after a few hours of riding around, he stopped by a stream to wet his handkerchief and wet his neck while his horse took a quick drink.

*-*-*

Grace Hammond adjusted her ponytail, her long blonde hair always got in the way when she rode, and she wasn’t one to really wear a hat. She was on the trail again. The trail of a killer. He’d gotten away with murdering a farmer in Tascosa, Texas, and Grace was going to bring him in for the crime. She could deal with a lot of things, but murder wasn’t one of them. Life was simply too precious to waste. And those who disrespected it had to pay for their crimes.

So she hunted bounties. And her greatest strength was that she was blonde and female. Tall, but all most men saw was her figure and ignored her strength of spirit. She used it to her advantage.

But even Grace wasn’t inhuman, and with her horse needing to rest, she looked for a perfect spot. When she found it, it looked as if someone was already occupying it. But her horse was thirsty, so a leery Grace stopped to let her horse drink. Though she kept plenty of space between herself and the stranger.

*-*-*

Someone was there…

Looking over carefully, Vin appraised the slender woman. Pretty but that didn’t mean much. She looked pretty capable of taking care of herself. “Hot day,” he drawled out in greeting.

Her hands covered her face when he looked at her, so she didn’t get a clear look at him. But he didn’t sound threatening… not that the true ones ever did. “Extremely. That’s true for the West this time of year though.”

“Yeah, right on that one.” The sharpshooter nodded his head, moving to get his canteen from Peso’s saddle and fill it up. “Bit of a chill in the air this mornin’ though… fall’s not too far away… heat’ll slow up a bit.”

When he stood, Grace got a good look at him. What kind of goddess was smiling down upon her that put Vin Tanner, the man she was hunting, right in her lap? “Yeah,” she said, her hand sliding to her gun. “You think hell is this hot, Vin?”

Straightening up, his hand grabbed the mare’s leg he always wore and he aimed at her. “Sure is ma’am…”

Her chin resting in her hand, she was posed perfectly on the balls of her feet, her gun already aimed on him. “I don’t want a confrontation here. I really, really don’t. You are Vin Tanner, I take it.” Her lack of fear at looking down the barrel of his shotgun was not surprising to her. She simply smiled at him. “I just want to make sure I have the right man.” Though she knew he did.

“Yes ma’am…I’m him.” Cursing himself mentally, Tanner felt a tinge of disappointment. He’d known bounty hunters would come looking for him but he still couldn’t believe it was happening. Somewhere in him he’d hoped they’d believe his innocence but, even as he thought it, he knew better. Would he have believed it? Probably not.

Grace didn’t smile. It was never an actual joy to find a killer. Hell of it was… he didn’t ‘feel’ like a cold-blooded murderer to her. And her instincts were normally right on about these things. Standing to her full 5’10”, she asked, “I suppose if I asked you to come with me peaceful-like, you’d refuse?”

“I ain’t gonna shoot ya…” Vin shook his head. “Not gonna kill a woman but I ain’t going back either. Didn’t do it.”

She noticed he didn’t move to put his gun away, even as he said he wouldn’t kill her. “I’m a bounty hunter. My being a woman doesn’t matter in the least. And it’s not up to me to prove your guilt or innocence.” She paused momentarily. “They had solid proof,” she hedged.

“They had a body. Nothin’ else.” He smiled wryly. “And they don’t intend on provin’ me guilty or innocent…I go back there I swing. They ain’t in the mood for pleas of innocence.” Vin backed toward his horse.
“And you bein’ a woman matters t’me. I ain’t gonna kill a woman.”

“Step away from the horse,” she said. “I don’t cotton to shooting fleeing fugitives in the back. But I can if I’m forced to.” She paused for a moment and sighed. “I’ve known men like Eli Joe my entire life. I know what they are about. I don’t want an innocent man to swing, but you have to give me a reason to believe you. Running only proves guilt to me.”

“I ain’t runnin’!” Vin all-but growled back. “But I ain’t lettin’ you take me back and it’s too damn hot to sit around here. Now, I got t’get back to Four Corners. Got work t’do…Eli Joe set me up for that murder cause he knew I was too close to bringin’ him in.”

She looked at him long and hard, her eyes squinting to narrow slits.
She was doing a lot more than listening to his words. She was watching him, gauging him. He wasn’t lying. He was looking her directly in the eyes and his breathing was nothing out of the ordinary, given the situation. She holstered her gun and said, “Ok. You’re right. It’s too hot for this.” She prayed she just made the right decision.

Relief in his blue eyes, Tanner put back the gun and swung up.
“C’mon…you can get a good room in town…maybe relax a spell. Too damn hot t’be ridin’ any length a’time.”

She agreed with a loud sigh and got on her horse. She knew he was going to make it hard on her to take him in… if it came to that. Those blue eyes of his could do some damage. “You know any good eatin’ places. I’m hungry enough to eat rattlesnake. Though I’d rather not if I don’t have to.”

He chuckled and fixed his hat. “Relax, y’can get a good meal at the saloon or the hotel…” Pausing he thought. “Best t’try the saloon though. Inez knows how to cook a damn fine meal, providin’ you can take the spices.”

“Nothing makes me ill. Believe me.” Damn! She was starting to like him.
A criminal shouldn’t be so nice to his bounty hunter. “You’d be surprised at some of the things I’ve eaten.”

“Naw…” Vin chuckled. “Lived with a few tribes…ain’t *nothin’* stranger than skunk stew.”

She laughed. “Ever eat ants… while they are moving.” She shook her head. “Believe me, it wasn’t one of the finer moments in my life. Ick!”

“Tried t’climb back out huh?”

“Oh dear Lord, you have no idea! If you don’t chew fast enough… I’d rather forget about that experience if you don’t mind.”

“Not gonna blame ya…” Vin drawled, nudging Peso into a faster trot.
“Best get movin’…gettin’ hotter out.”

She looked up toward the sun; it was almost completely overhead now.
She took her hat off her saddle horn and finally placed it on her head.
“And it’s not quite noon yet. Bet when you woke up today, you didn’t think it would end up like this.”

“Shoot no! Nice and cool…But the weather’s deceptive out here sometimes.” Vin looked over. “Did ya fill up your canteen?”

She had to chuckle. “Um… no. Just when I was about to, I found out that the man I was sharing a waterhole with was… well you. And I became a bit distracted. I won’t die of thirst though.”

“Naw…” He pulled his canteen off his belt and tossed it to her. “Best keep some water in ya.”

She accepted the canteen. She was more worried about him, but she took a drink to satisfy him. She rode up beside him and handed it back.
“Thanks. How far to town?”

“Bout an hour’s ride…less if it’s at full gallop, but it’s too damn hot to risk pushin’ the horses.”

She scratched her horse’s mane and commented, “True. And mine thinks it’s below him to do full gallops anyway. He has more personality than he knows what to do with.”

A twinkle appeared in his eyes as he glanced over at her. “Most of the good ones do.”

“Ah, then he’s obviously the best.” She patted him again and stared off into the horizon. There were so many things she wanted to ask him about what happened in Texas, but she wouldn’t push. She just had to remind herself not to push because that was her nature.

“G’head…” Vin said finally. “Ask.”

“Ask what?” She tried to act like it was nothing. “About what’s on my mind? You already said you didn’t want to talk about it. And yes, I understand, but I have these burning curiosities. I can’t help that.” She didn’t want tension. And that confused her. He was a wanted man.

He nodded. “I’d rather y’ask then have the damn thing hangin’ over our heads like a thundercloud. Others’ll spot it a mile away…think you’re after me or somethin’.”

She shrugged. “Could that be because I am… was…OH geez! Vin, what’s your side of the story? I survive by my wits… my instincts… and they’re telling me you DIDN’T kill that man!! But I need to hear your side. Whether or not they will listen, *I* will!”

He nodded then glanced up at the sky for a long moment. “Was chasin’ a feller named Eli Joe, y’mentioned ’em, and I got real close…so ol’
Eli, he kills a man, and I find the body. Thought it was him…Took it in since he was wanted dead or alive…and, the good folks of Tascosa didn’t bother to consider how dumb I’d have to be to kill a feller then bring his body t’show.”

She nodded. “Sounds about like them. And since Eli Joe is dead, he can’t help you. Not that he would anyway. I’ve known men like him before, some even worse.” She looked at him, even though he was looking ahead, and said, “For what it’s worth, I believe you.”

That brought a look of surprise to his face and he looked over at her for a long moment then nodded finally. “Thanks…means a lot. Most everybody else, save the boys and a few townsfolk who know, thinks I did it.”

“Well, they’re wrong.” He simply had too good of a vibe around him.
Grace had met killers before, and yes, Vin had killed but not in the sense she was thinking. “Who are the boys?”

“Fellers I ride with.” He answered simply. “We’re paid by a judge to protect Four Corners.” A wry smile played at his mouth. “Bit of a rough place.”

She smiled. “Sounds like the perfect place for me then. That is unless
I wear out my welcome… and then I’ll move on.”

“Naw, you respect them, stay outta their way, they respect you. Sides,
Miz Travis could use the company. Not many independent ladies around.
Just her and Inez.”

“Independent, huh? That’s one of the nicer things I’ve been called.
Thank you.” She adjusted in her saddle. The blade of her tachi glimmered a bit before she covered it. It was just too hot to have the delicate blade exposed.

“Y’welcome.” Vin grinned at her. “And I’ve been called a few things in my time myself. Some of ’em can make a feller laugh pretty damn hard.”

She smiled in return. “Some of mine would make a sailor blush.” Though would he get that remark? Sailors swore more than cowboys. “Men get rather colorful when you have them tied down like a calf.”

That brought a laugh from him. “Wouldn’t get a complaint outta me.”
Though his eyes were twinkling, Vin also couldn’t believe he’d said that to a woman. Wasn’t appropriate of him.

Grace smiled, in no way offended. “Well, I could be persuaded. I have rope around here somewhere.” She made a pretense of looking around her horse for some rope. “I know it’s here. I just saw it.”

“Need help lookin’…” Tanner joked, relieved to see her finding the humor.

“Ever lose something you just had?” She looked a bit more, nearly leaned off her horse and then said, “Ah! Here it is!” She produced a small piece of rope that she used to dry her clothes on. “I got it now!”

“That’s what y’use?” He laughed. “Ain’t much to stand up to a man…”

“Haven’t you ever heard that size doesn’t matter? It’s all in how you use what you have.” She realized the double meaning of that and blushed rather profusely. She continued quickly, “I could tie you up so you couldn’t move with this bit of rope.” And actually, she could.

He believed her. “I bet you could. A necessary skill t’have in the business.”

She was glad she hadn’t offended with that comment, yet also a bit morose about the fact that he hadn’t. Talk about your dualities. And he’d turned away from the playful teasing as well. “True. A definite necessity. Anything is a weapon though, anything.” She wiggled around some more to try to find a place to stash the rope.

“Pocket on the saddle bag.” Vin directed, trying to show he wasn’t upset or anything. He knew his habit of speaking little and acting much could bring out the wrong impression in some and somehow, he didn’t want that to happen here.

“Thanks,” she said, sliding it back into its place. “Everything I own is on this horse. He’s sort of my home… well him and any hotel I can find.” She squared herself in the saddle and adjusted her hat. When it wouldn’t cooperate, she just removed it. “It’s darn hot out here.”

Pulling out the canteen again, the tracker handed it over. “Take another drink. Don’t wanna end up meetin’ the guys by endin’ up in Nathan’s clinic, do ya?”

She took the canteen and took a long swallow. “Honestly, I doubt that would happen, but I was thirsty. Thank you.” She handed it back to him.

“This heat? Y’never know…and you’re welcome.”

“I know,” she said with some certainty. She was starting to see signs of civilization. “We can’t be far from town… too many trails, rocks turned over, broken branches. Nice sized town too!”

“It’s growin’,” Vin agreed. “Startin’ to be good for families but the
ranchers’re more trouble than they’re worth. Keep raisin’ ruckuses.”

“Still a lot of illegal activity, huh?” With her code of justice, maybe she could stay on for a while. It depended, but she could try.

“Oh yeah…plenty.”

The heat had made the residents of Four Corners slow to move from their homes, most staying inside to avoid the glaring sun and – within the safety of their own walls – being able to dress as they so pleased.

Riding alongside the mysterious lady bounty hunter Vin suddenly realized he hadn’t bothered to find out her name. A second later he realized why. Too busy staring at her to care. Lady like that was rare in these parts. She was like Miz Travis only wilder. *Much* wilder. Hiding a smile, the sharpshooter couldn’t help the next thought that went through his head.

He liked ’em wild…

Grace had been looking ahead, taking in the scenery. It was a decent town. Much better than most she’d been in. Turning around, she caught sight of the ex-bounty hunter looking at her. She smiled brightly at him, her hat finding its way to her saddle horn. “Not a bad town you got here.”

He grinned. “It’s a’right…townfolk’re quiet enough…but not quiet enough we get bored.” Nudging Peso forward, he gestured. “Saloon’s up here…this time a’day the others are probably enjoyin’ a drink.”

Kicking her horse along, she said, “I could use a drink myself.” She was curious about these friends of his. And since he was ahead of her, she could satisfy a bit of her curiosity about him. She had been impressed with what she’d seen as far as his personality, but when she got a look at his physique, she liked what she saw.

Leading her to the saloon, Vin dismounted and looped Peso’s reins over the waiting post then turned to hold the bridle of the lady bounty hunter’s horse as she dismounted. “They serve pretty damn good whiskey here…”

She was a bit surprised by the gentlemanly gesture; she didn’t get too many of those. She stood directly beside him as she softly said, “I could knock down a round or two. Sounds nice.”

He nodded at that, and then gestured for her to move ahead of him.
“Real nice…” Vin agreed, his eyes sweeping over her appreciatively. She was gorgeous. “Uh…ma’am?” He had to know her name before he introduced her after all…

She turned slowly and smiled at him. “Grace Hammond. I forgot to introduce myself. Please, call me Grace.”

“A’right Grace…call me Vin.” Removing his hat, Vin smiled widely at her, amazed that only a few hours before this woman had been prepared to take him back to Tascosa. Things had definitely gotten interesting since he’d dropped into Four Corners. A good kind of interesting but interesting nonetheless.

“Alright, Vin.” She moved a bit more closely to him and said,
“Regardless of the circumstances, it’s nice to meet you.” Oh yeah, no way was she going to take him back to Texas. She may end up staying here and helping to make sure that no one else tried to either.

He nodded. “Mighty nice meetin’ you too…” With that he led her into the saloon and, with a nod at the Mexican woman behind the bar, turned to where his friends were slouched around a large table.

“Have a seat.” Chris said over his glass, giving a chair a small kick and moving it toward Vin.

“Hot out.” The sharpshooter said simply, pulling another chair over for
Grace.

“Who’s the vision with y’Vin?” Buck Wilmington, his eyes twinkling merrily, questioned with a welcoming smile, standing up and moving to help with her chair.

If Grace liked anything, it was shock value. She reached out for his hand and smiled sweetly. “Grace Hammond. I’m a bounty hunter. And you are?”

Taking her hand and brushing a kiss across it, Buck grinned. “Buck
Wilmington ma’am…pleasure t’meet you.”

At the words bounty hunter, Chris’s questioning gaze flicked to Vin.
Without words, the sharpshooter gave his friend a look that assured him
Grace was all right. Satisfied, Larabee sat back to watch the interactions.

Grace sat down as Buck helped her. She just was not used to gentlemanly attention. She could sure get used to it though. She gave Vin a wink and smiled at Buck. “Why thank you, kind sir. A girl could surely get accustomed to treatment like this.”

“A lady of your beauty deserves such treatment.” Buck returned with a smile, ignoring the others smirks of amusement.

She did roll her eyes, though her smile touched them. “I’ve been called a lot of things, Mr. Wilmington, but beautiful isn’t necessarily one of them.” Oh, he was a flatterer… but yet he seemed genuine. Vin had nice friends. The one who concerned her the most though was the one who was quietly scrutinizing her.

Larabee, gesturing to Inez for drinks, eyed her calmly then put forward. “Bounty hunter…looking for anybody in particular?”

She looked at Vin and softly said, “I was.” Turning back to the man who seemed to be the leader of the group, she looked him directly in the eyes and said, “I thought I found him too. But after further speculation, he isn’t the one I’m looking for after all. Cold trail and all that.”

Meeting her gaze steadily, he wasn’t intimidated but he did respect the strength he found there. “Yeah…cold trail.” Satisfied, he nodded toward Inez who was waiting for her order. “Drink?”

Looking up at the Mexican woman, she asked, “Scotch, straight up, please?”

Nodding, Inez smiled brightly. “Of course.” With a flurry of skirts, she avoided Buck’s hand before heading back to the bar.

Grace smiled. She wasn’t sure what to say. She was a talker, for sure.
But in this group, she just didn’t know what exactly to say to strike up a conversation. ‘Hot out’ would be too obvious. And she had a ton of other equally idiotic statements. For once, she was going to take her mother’s advice and wait for someone else to speak.

Deciding to be the first to break the ice, Josiah very diplomatically noted, “Hard business for a woman to work alone…you must be quite a strong woman.”

Grace nodded in agreement. “It’s not easy, no. And it’s very lonely work, but for the most part, it’s rewarding to bring criminals to justice. To help those who need helping.” She sipped at her drink. ‘Waaaay too much there, Hammond,’ she chastised herself.

“An admirable goal.” Nathan input with a smile at her. “Most are just in it for the money…’cept you & Vin of course.”

Vin chuckled at that one, slouching comfortably in his chair. He’d done it to make a living but yeah, it’d been almost like law enforcement to him.

She rested her elbow on the table, putting her chin in her hand. “I never got into it for the money. I’ve done this job for years. I simply have the uncanny need for justice. I like to see the bad guy punished and make sure that good guys don’t get punished unjustly.” She stopped there and let her words sink in.

Most of the Seven glanced at Vin then stared steadily into Grace’s eyes. If there was one thing about the Seven that was apparent, it was the fact they took care of their friend. Woman or no, they’d protect Vin. They’d done it before and they’d do it again. Fortunately, Grace seemed to understand Vin’s innocence. How he’d convinced her they didn’t know but he had and that was all that mattered to them.

“Pity everybody don’t think like that…” JD noted over his glass. “Be a might bit easier to do our job.”

She looked down at her glass, swirling the liquid gently. “There might be others following me though,” she softly announced. “There’s this one bounty hunter… Ridgeway. He likes to try to steal what I find. He’s pathetic… and never far behind me.” She looked up then and said, “But don’t worry. I’ve led him on goose chases before. When I’m done with him, he’ll be so dizzy his compass won’t even work.”

“Never fear my dear lady,” Ezra, reclining as only he could, interjected with a smile. “Any that wander into our humble hamlet shall find themselves quite unprepared for the greeting they shall receive at our hands.”

“Basically,” Nathan translated. “Anybody shows up lookin’ for Vin’ll have hell to pay from us.”

She wanted to argue that their way of dealing with Ridgeway wouldn’t work while hers would. But it was seven against one and she was odd man out. The loner as she always was. “Understandable,” she said. “But if you need help, I’ve done this a time or two and been rather successful.”

They all nodded their agreement.

“We appreciate it.” Jackson spoke again, his voice very diplomatic.

“Anytime,” she said as she downed her drink and set the glass on the table. Again, she wasn’t sure about what to do, say… She was very good at saying too much. Starting to stand, she looked at Vin and asked, “You said I could procure a room?”

Surprised at her abruptness, Tanner nodded and pushed up. “Yes ma’am,
I’ll take y’over there if you’d like.”

“Thank you. With this heat, I can’t let my horse pack all my belongings for too long. I’m kind of attached to him and all.” It was a good cover, so she thought. She wanted to help them, but they seemed more than capable of handling themselves. Though there was a lot about Ridgeway that they didn’t know, and she couldn’t tell them. “Thank you for the drink, gentlemen.”

“Our pleasure…” Buck said with a wide smile. “Drop by after you get settled in. We’ll buy another, maybe share a few stories.”

Putting his hat on, Vin was half tempted to glare at his friend but reminded himself Buck was simply being Buck. And he could hardly blame a feller for being interested in Grace. She was a real pretty lady.

Once outside, she put her hat on as well. “You weren’t lying. That’s a very interesting group of friends you have there.” She looked up at the sky, so much on her mind but for the first time in a very long time, she didn’t know how to voice it.

Vin chuckled. “That ain’t the half of it.” He paused then continued.
“Y’gonna stick around a’spell? See if this Ridgeway feller’ll show up?
It’d be a help havin’ somebody around who knows how he thinks.”

That caused her to turn and look at him. What was it about him? She looked back into the bar and thought. She felt the others didn’t really want her help, but Vin had asked. Well, there went her plans to skip town. Sighing, she looked back at him and said, “I’d like to help. I really would.”

“Thanks.” Seeing where her gaze had gone, Vin touched her arm slightly.
“They ain’t tryin’ to offend… jus’ last time a couple lady bounty hunters showed up in town, they almost got JD killed. They jus’ don’t wanna rush into nothin’.”

Her focus cleared to center her gaze on him and the spot where he touched her arm. She nodded and swallowed hard. “I understand that. And shouting from the rooftops that I’m truly one of the good guys wouldn’t work, would it? But did they take into account that if I’d wanted to take you in, why would I have let you bring me into town and introduce me to six of your very capable and protective friends? Wouldn’t it be smarter to have just taken you when we were one on one.” She stopped talking then and smiled. “I’m sorry. It’s that cursed talkative nature I have. Forget everything after ‘I understand that’. Please.”

“It’s a’right.” The sharpshooter assured with a chuckle. “I might not talk much but I’ve got no problems with listenin’. They’re a suspicious bunch…in their natures.” He grinned. “Round here it’s a survival instinct.”

“I know.” She gave him a smile then and continued, “I promise not to run off. Besides, whether they admit it or not, they’re going to need my help with Ridgeway. I know things about him that no one else does. And contrary to my lifestyle, I can work with a team. Just don’t choose to do it often.” She chuckled and made her way to her horse. “I’d like a nice stable for him too if there is one around.”

“There’s only one in town but it’s a good one.” Vin untied Peso and waited for her. “The help’ll be much appreciated, anythin’ you can tell
us’ll give us a good advantage over him.”

She took her horse and said, “He’s hard to kill…Ridgeway, I mean. If he can’t be persuaded or led off your trail, then we have a problem.” A part of her didn’t want to kill Ridgeway. He wasn’t a bad guy, just very annoying.

Frowning, Vin nodded. “Yeah, expect’ll be a hard one to deal with.” He considered it then met her gaze. “We’ll handle’em…with your help ‘course.”

She gave him a genuine smile. “There’s nothing I wouldn’t do.” She mounted her well-packed horse and said, “I’ve been known to be very resourceful.”

“I don’t doubt that one,” the sharpshooter agreed with a twinkle in his eye as he mounted up as well.

Oh she was all up for that twinkle she caught in his gaze. With a soft chuckle, she said, “You already know me so well. I see I’m going to have to work to surprise you, aren’t I?”

Vin grinned at her. “I’m lookin’ forward to whatever you come up with, ma’am.” And he was. Oh he definitely was.

He took her to the inn where she got a room and she gave him her best ‘lady-in-distress’ look as she asked, “Would you mind helping me carry this to my room? Like I said, everything I own is on Eternity here.” She patted her horse’s neck.

“Wouldn’t mind a bit.” The sharpshooter flashed her another smile and moved to the horse. “Where’d you like me to start?”

She couldn’t stop looking at him. Oh this could be trouble. The best kind, but definitely trouble. “How about the two on the back? One’s my clothing and the other is my camping equipment.” When he reached toward her sword, she said, “Hold that one gently though. She’s my lifeline.”
She grabbed up a couple of other bags, one carrying her valuable knife collection and led him up to her room.

Holding each as she’d instructed, Vin followed her up the stairs, not minding in the least that she was moving ahead of him since it gave him ample time to admire Grace’s very considerable assets. Easy to see why a man would spend all his time following her around.

When they reached her room, she said, “Just drop it anywhere. I’m not one much for unpacking. Except please put the sword on the bed. Nothing but the best for her.” She laughed to make it sound like she was teasing, but her sword was her life. “Vin,” she said as she dropped her other clothing bag on the bed. “Thank you for everything. I mean, you’ve been very kind to someone who is an absolute stranger to you.” She moved in and touched his hand with hers. “Thank you.”

“No problem, ma’am.” Vin responded with another smile, setting the sword on the bed and stepped toward the door. “I’d best leave you for awhile, give you a chance to settle in…Get the trail dust of y’and all. Must feel a might bit tired too.”

She stepped back a bit and gave him a smile. “I do, and I am rather tired. Could I possibly run into you later then?”

Standing at the door, the sharpshooter nodded and tipped his had to her. “I’m always ’round the place, ma’am. Ain’t hard to find me…or for me to find you.”

She smiled to herself. She’d definitely make herself easy to find then.
Definitely! But for now, he was right. A bath and a nap were what she needed. Ridgeway would be taken care of later.

*-*-*

Sitting at the table, Chris rolled an empty shot glass between his forefinger and his thumb as he looked at his friend. “Risky…” he said finally.

“She could’ve shot me and taken my body back to Tascosa,” Vin reminded.
“Didn’t have to go through the trouble of bringin’ me here where my friends are.”

“Sides, Chris, she ain’t like the other two,” Buck commented, referring to the two female bounty hunters they’d met before. “She ain’t in it for the money.”

“Might I remind you, Mr. Larabee,” Ezra remarked with his usual dry tones. “That Miss Hammond is most likely our best source of information about this Ridgeway character and that her assistance in dealing with him could be invaluable.”

“Ain’t smart t’trust someone you just met,” The leader protested half-heartedly, seeing the conviction in his friend’s eyes and growing agreement in the others faces.

“You trusted me before we even spoke t’each other,” Tanner drawled, his mind clearly on their first meeting when they’d saved Nathan from hanging.

The mark hit home and Chris sighed, giving in. For now. “A’right. Her help’s welcome. Pass it along Vin.”

The sharpshooter nodded his agreement then pushed to his feet. “Thanks
Chris.”

The gunslinger met his gaze and held it, none of the others could understand whatever passed between them but Vin did.

It was Chris’s approval. If Vin trusted her then he trusted her. That was enough for him.

*-*-*

When Vin found Grace she was in the livery checking on her horse, Eternity.

The slim blonde wore a man’s white shirt and deerskin pants that hugged her curves.

After eyeing her appreciatively, he announced his presence. “Sleep good?”

She jumped slightly and put her hand to her chest as she laughed. “You scared me. And yes, I did! Very comfortable bed I have there.” She looked the former bounty hunter up and down quickly before saying, “You actually look better yourself. Some of your worry lines are gone. That’s good.”

He chuckled and nodded. “Boys an’ I hashed a few thing out. They’re more comfortable with havin’ y’help out. Just takes a little talkin’ to figure things out. Though Buck thinks y’can do no wrong.”

She patted Eternity’s neck and then took a few steps toward Vin, placing her hands in the back of her waistband. “Well, I get the feeling that Buck got a look at the blonde hair and decided I was worthy of sainthood.” She chuckled. “But Chris, I’m surprised he bent in my favor at all.” Turning serious, she said, “You took a chance on me, defending me to him. I won’t let you down.”

“Didn’t figure you would.” Vin, removing his hat, rubbed the back of his neck. “I jus’ reminded Chris of a few things…” He smiled wryly.
“Like him trustin’ me without either one of us havin’ to say a single word. Helped jog his memory on a few things. He likes you…just ain’t sure about askin’ you to risk your neck over people you barely know.”

She nodded. “Well, it’s kind of the job of a bounty hunter, isn’t it?” she said softly. “I mean, I hunt down criminals and bring them to justice. I haven’t met one who’s come along peaceful-like yet. And I never know anyone those people have hurt. At least, I’m getting to know you. And besides that, I know the man who’s hunting you. I *know* Nathaniel Ridgeway. It should give us an advantage.”

“It does.” The tracker’s head bobbed in and he moved to check his horse. “Spose bounty huntin’ is like that, protectin’ people..dependin’ on why you do it. The reasons behind it. Vengeance, the money, or to help. It depends.” After a moment he smiled and shrugged. “Or y’just do it.”

She moved to lean against a post and laughed lightly. “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you why I did it. I’m the odd one, that’s for sure.” She couldn’t help watching him with his horse. It was a sight to behold, for sure.

“I dunno about odd…seems to me people have their own reasons for doing everythin’. Nothin’s ever the same for any of us.” As Vin spoke Peso responded to his touches, shaking his head and nudging against his owner.

“That I do. And it isn’t for money or vengeance. I have no need for either.” She crossed her arms in front of her. There was a deeper meaning than wanting to help people. But it was something she couldn’t go into with anyone. “I just like to see justice done,” she offered. It was the main reason she hadn’t pursued taking him in.

Vin, catching the deeper meaning behind her words, nodded. “Good reason…” Damn good actually…better than he’d ever had.

She sighed and rested her head on the post. “Most don’t agree with you.
I could tell you some stories… I won’t bore you with them, but I could tell you.” She chuckled at that. Something hit her then and made her pop her head up, “How did you know I’d be here? Or did you just come to see Peso?”

“Figured you’d be here,” he answered honestly. “You’re all settled in so I figured you’d wanna come here and make sure Eternity’s settlin’ in all right too. Told ya I’d find you.”

She was indeed impressed with that. Pushing off the post, she moved to pat Peso’s nose. “I never doubted that you would,” she said softly.

There was a long pause as their gazes met and Vin became distinctly aware of the fact that Grace wasn’t just another bounty hunter. She was a lady bounty hunter and at the moment his mind was putting a lot of emphasis on the *lady* part.

‘You’re in a hell of a lotta trouble with this one Tanner…’ his responsible side cautioned.

‘I like trouble’ Vin countered, ignoring the concerns.

Standing there, he wasn’t sure what he was supposed to say next. What he was supposed to do next. What he *wanted* to do would probably earn him a bloody nose. But he was patient. He’d wait…for now.

She felt her breath catch as they stood there looking at one another.
She knew what he was considering doing, and she hadn’t wanted someone this much in a very long time. But she also picked up on his reservations and wouldn’t push him. Instead, she smiled at him and touched the brim of his hat. “What now, Vin Tanner?”

His gaze swept over her speculatively and then, his blue eyes twinkling merrily, the sharpshooter held out his arm. “You eat yet Miz Hammond?”

She smiled brightly. Taking his arm, she held herself closely to him as she said, “As a matter of fact, I have not, Mr. Tanner. I feel as if I haven’t eaten in days.”

Enjoying the feeling of her warm curves pressing against him, Vin spoke again. “Mind if I escort y’over to the hotel for dinner?”

“I would be honored,” she said, loving the feel of the heat he generated. It was a nice, peaceful walk to the hotel. Once there though, she had to stop their progress, “Um… I don’t think I’m dressed for dinner.”

Vin looked down at his own clothing then slid his gaze appreciatively over hers. “Y’look fine to me. Better than anyone else in here.”

She smiled. “Well, kind sir, I appreciate the compliment.” She made an effort to smooth out her shirt with her free hand. Pressing herself a bit more closely to him, she whispered, “Thank you.”

“My pleasure,” he responded, his eyes warm as he smiled back.

Before this night was over, Grace Hammond was determined that he was going to kiss her. She was more than determined actually. She rested her head on his shoulder briefly before he led her into the hotel. The smell of food hit her right away and her stomach complained loudly. She couldn’t help but laugh. “Not very ladylike, I know.”

“Ladies ain’t no fun.” Vin winked at her. “Too reserved and proper.”

She laughed. “I tried that. Reserved and proper. Wearing dresses and pinning back my hair. It was dreadfully boring.” She didn’t even pause though as she said, “I could be a real shocker though, and take out the ponytail.” She reached back and untied the leather that held back her long hair. “I’m definitely not a lady.”

Eyeing the blond locks with a smile, Vin reached out to tug on one gently. “Good.” He led her into the dining room, nodding at the owner with a smile, and to his favorite table. “Cause proper ladies usually don’t bother with the likes of me.”

She stopped their progress and stood in front of him. “I’m definitely glad I’m not a lady then… because there’s no one else I’d rather bother than you.” She stood there for a long moment and looked at him. She licked her lips before putting space between them. Her stomach at war with something else she really wanted.

Vin was no kid…he knew that look. He wanted it too and it surprised him. He wasn’t a man to fall into bed with a woman. Not one like Grace.
It just wasn’t something he did. But he also couldn’t deny the connection. It was there… and it was real.

At this point, he didn’t think he would be able to resist the tugging… the constant pull to her.

“And I ain’t gonna complain about bein’ bothered.”

She held his gaze and lightly touched the buttons on his shirt. It was almost absentmindedly. Grace wasn’t one given to instant attraction. It was not how she worked. In her world, it was a way to an early death.
But Vin Tanner was different. She felt that there were parts of her that only he could understand and the reverse was true. She felt that connection as sure as she felt the bone button under her fingertips. “Be careful, I may bother you more than you want.”

“Ain’t possible.” He drawled back as Molly, the hostess, wandered over.

“Evenin’ Mr. Tanner…ma’am. What can I get you?”

“The special…” Vin looked at Grace questioningly.

“Please,” Grace said, reluctantly pulling away from him to sit down at the table. Looks like the need for food was going to win out this round. A part of her was thankful and a part of her wanted to poke hungry right in the eyes.

Helping her with her chair, Tanner then moved to sit across from her and found the candlelight reflecting off her hair in a golden shine.
Quite honestly, she was the prettiest lady he’d ever set eyes on. Damn prettiest.

They kept up the small talk over dinner, getting to know one another without giving out great detail. It almost wasn’t necessary. They didn’t talk much about their bounties, or their work. Mostly their likes and dislikes. Grace had not spent time like this with a man in a very, very long time. She hadn’t felt comfortable enough to do so. Vin was one special man!

Likewise, Vin was fascinated by Grace. There was more to her than met the eye, most definitely. He wanted to find out what she was hiding too. Though, at the moment, he was more interested in finding out what her mouth felt like…not to mention the rest of her but he wasn’t gonna be stupid and rush things. She was the type of woman a man took his time with. The special kind.

She firmly believed that the smile on her face was permanently tattooed there. She could listen to Vin talk forever. His voice went through her ears and touched her very soul. There were moments during dinner where she found herself completely entranced with it. When she finally stopped staring at him and looked down at her plate, she was almost disappointed that the night seemed it would have to end. She was not ready for that.

“Grace…” Vin wasn’t sure when in the night he’d dropped the formalities but he liked the way her name sounded when he said it. “Mind takin’ a walk with me? Get some night air before y’go to bed?” Now there was an image worth exploring. Sleeping next to Grace… sleeping with Grace… Quickly he put a stop to those musings. Down that path lay something he wanted to take his time with. Anticipation and all that.

She sighed in relief. Her eyes locking with his, she responded, “Vin, there is nothing I would like more right now than to walk with you.” Oh there was more she wanted, but she’d take her time with that. So long as this date didn’t end right now, she’d take whatever he offered. She’d watched those gorgeous lips of his move all evening. She couldn’t help but wonder what they’d feel like pressed against hers… or other parts of her body. She almost shivered with the imagery.

Paying for their meal, Vin took her arm once more and led her from the hotel. “Meal was good.” He didn’t know what else to say. Somehow, ‘Grace I wanna kiss you seemed a bit blunt.’ Even if it was what he wanted he didn’t want to push her or to approach it casually. She wasn’t the kinda woman you did that with. Not a chance.

She couldn’t help it, just holding his arm wasn’t enough. She knew what this time period was like, and she honestly didn’t really care at the moment. She moved closer to him and put her head on his shoulder. “It was,” she said softly. “But it’s not as nice as the company.”

“No… not as nice as the company.” He echoed, his arm moving to slip around her waist and pull her snug against his side.

She settled in and wrapped both arms around his waist. If she could crawl under his skin, she would have. She was excited, thrilled, and most definitely falling in love. It was something she rarely did. She could lose herself in the heat of his body, the sound of his voice, and the touch of his hand on her waist. “The best of company,” she whispered.

“Best.” He echoed, cupping her cheeks with his hands, thumbs rubbing lightly across her cheekbones.

Her breath caught and she had to swallow hard. She looked up at him with all of her emotions in her eyes. Waiting for him to take what they both wanted.

“I think, Miz Grace,” Vin said after a moment. “that I’m gonna have
t’kiss you…”

“Please do,” she said, her voice reflecting her desire.

“Yes ma’am…” He drawled out with a lazy smile before dropping his head down to capture her mouth in a slow, sweet as honey, kiss. Tasting her with deliberately drawn out motions. Perfect. Just as perfect as he’d thought…or even more so.

Her arms moved around his neck as she tingled with the first sensations of the kiss. It had been worth the wait. She moved to press herself against him, letting his strength hold her as her knees had gone decidedly weak and her toes curled tightly in her boots. He tasted like beer and steak and that flavor that was uniquely Vin Tanner. She could easily lose herself in him… if she already hadn’t.

Feeling her move against him, Vin’s grip automatically tightened and he pressed her curves to his leanness. One hand rested against her back while the other slid up into her blonde locks and curled them around his fingers, holding her head firmly. Delicious. Her lips felt as soft as he’d expected and her mouth a warm haven for him. It was hard not to want more as he deepened the kiss and inhaled the scent of her that surrounded him. Looking at her made a man’s mind go to dangerous places with tempting thoughts, holding her cemented their strength and increased her pull on him. He was in definite trouble…the kind of trouble a man got into when he tried to ride the wind. The best kind.

Grace let one hand move from his neck and down his chest slowly, as she moved it around to his back and kneaded the muscles she found there.
She opened her mouth under his tender ministrations and everything inside of her melted. If it were possible to lose yourself in a kiss, Grace was doing it right now.

A soft noise, not quite a groan, escaped him into her mouth and Vin found himself backing her against the nearest wall – effectively trapping her –– as the kiss grew more heated and he found himself fighting rising desires. He had to back off or…

She wasn’t going to tell him no, if he wanted it to go farther, she was *not* going to stop him. When she felt herself back against the wall, she let it hold her and relaxed completely against him, pressing the soft parts of her body against his harder ones. The one hand was still roaming his back but the other had made it’s way into his hair. If he wanted her, she was his.

Forcing himself to lift his mouth from hers, Vin fought for breath.
“I…sorry Grace. Not right for a man…” his words fell away as he stared at the picture she presented in the starlight, eyes wide, hair mussed, cheeks flushed. All because he’d kissed her. “Ain’t right…” He repeated finally, wishing with everything in him to go with her back to her hotel room. He wanted her and there wasn’t a damn thing he could do to change it.

Her hand traced his jaw and then his swollen, wet lips. “If it isn’t right for a man, then maybe it is for a woman.” She leaned in and kissed those lips softly before pulling back again. It was all she could do to control her breathing. Taking his hand with her free one, she put it to her chest. “You feel that? If that isn’t right, Vin, I don’t know what is.” Her heart was literally racing, and he’d done that to her.

Vin stared at his hand, feeling the warm skin beneath his palm, feeling her heart beating. “You’re beautiful…” He whispered amazed.

She smiled and gazed into his eyes. “I’m sure I look like a train wreck.” Her hand was still on his cheek, her thumb moving back and forth on his face. “And you are simply phenomenal.”

Leaning down, he kissed her deeply again before giving her a concerned look. “You sure ‘bout this?”

She looked at him lovingly and moved that hand that was on her chest to her breast. “I’m absolutely sure about it.” She moved his face to hers and kissed him again. They would move to the next level if she could ever stop kissing him.

His hand savoring the feeling of her breast, Vin deepened the kiss… letting the passionate feelings she was bringing out in him spill over into his touches. When he pulled away again, he paused long enough to pick up his hat, which had fallen to the ground, and secured it on her head. With a grin, he offered her his arm. “Mind if I escort y’back to your hotel Miz Grace?”

Holding herself closely to him, she beamed him a smile and said, “Why no, kind sir. There’s nothing I’d like better.” She could still feel every place his hands had been on her body. She was literally on fire from his touches.

“Just round the corner ain’t it?” he questioned, keeping up the playful pretense, as he wrapped his arm around her body and savored the feel of her curves pressing against him.

“It is.” She wrapped her arm around his waist and a couple fingers slid just inside his pocket. “It’s awfully kind of you to see me safely home.” Of course, what she was thinking was that it was going to be pretty hard not to attack him once they got inside that room.

“Least I can do ma’am…” Vin gave her an amused look when he felt her fingers slipping into his pocket. “Ain’t the kind of town a lady goes wanderin’ around in after dark. Specially not when they’re as pretty as you.”

She did lightly laugh at that. Her other hand moved to stroke his abdomen as she said, “My hero.” And in a way, that was true. Wasn’t he saving her from herself?! She leaned in and placed a soft kiss on his neck. “I think I shall have to repay you for this kindness.”

Looking up at the hotel, Vin raised an eyebrow. “And how would you do that ma’am?”

She was tall enough that she didn’t have to lean up to speak in his ear. Breathily, she said, “Oh, I think you know how. But let’s just say that it involves a lot less clothing than we’re wearing now.” She couldn’t help but wonder how he would react to that. She was definitely not the average woman.

His eyes darkened with desire at the thought and, pretense aside, he pulled her to him for another kiss before releasing her. “Then I think it best we get upstairs in a hurry.”

She still stood closely to him as she said, “I’ll lead the way.” Taking his hand, she moved him closely behind her and they made their way up the stairs. The feel of him behind her was exhilarating and she shivered in anticipation as she put the key in the lock and opened the door.

Following her into the room, Vin closed the door behind them then pulled her back against him, his hand taking his hat from her head and tossed it aside before sliding his fingers into her hair and seeking out the smooth skin of her neck. “Lot less clothes huh?” he questioned, remembering her earlier promise.

“Mmm, hmmm,” she said. She couldn’t form words because she was kissing his jaw and simultaneously working on the buttons of his shirt. Just a touch of flesh. She knew that once she found that, it would be all over for her. She was already warm in some very sensitive places.

Groaning at the feather soft kisses, the sharpshooter’s hands sought out the buttons of her shirt and yanking them open. “Like that idea…”

She groaned lightly and broke off from kissing him long enough to say,
“I have good ones sometimes.” She then returned to her feast, this time, she kissed the exposed skin of his chest. Sweet nectar, that’s what he was.

“Don’t doubt it,” Vin agreed, his hands pulling her shirt from her body before tracing the outline of her breasts before heading for her pants.
He wanted to feel her nude against him and he wanted to feel it now!

She felt what he was doing and pulled up to kiss at his ear and worked on his pants. Two nude bodies coming together in passion. She slipped her boots off easily and managed to help him with his. She wanted to look at him, to touch him, and to taste him all at once. She wasn’t sure which she wanted to do first though.

Their clothing out of the way, Vin picked her up and carried her to the bed where he laid her down then stared down at her, drinking in the sight of her lying there in the moonlight. Beautiful didn’t even begin to cover it.

She let him look his fill, raising one leg and letting her hand rest lightly on her flat abdomen. Most people didn’t see that she had strength unless they saw her nude. She wasn’t ashamed of her body in the least. She was also taking the opportunity to look at him. He was gorgeous, and that was putting it mildly. She gazed upon his strong thighs, his well-endowed manhood, and the muscles on his upper torso. Sheer divinity.

“Beautiful,” Vin repeated, lowering himself over her and dropping his mouth onto the smooth skin of her throat. With deliberate slowness, he paid homage to her body with his mouth. Delicious.

She gasped out when his nude form finally touched hers. Just this morning, she had threatened to arrest him and take him back to Texas and now they were making love, and she was falling in love with him. She kissed every part of his body she could reach, and what she couldn’t, she caressed with her hands.

Given the short period of time they’d known each other Vin could hardly believe they were together this way. But they were and that was all that he cared about. He was fascinated by the woman who lay in his arms and the contradictions she’d presented to him. He was a man who trusted his instincts and, although he didn’t know much about her beyond what he’d learned that night at dinner, he did know his instincts were to trust her and that was something he took on faith. She was someone special and he aimed to prove it to her.

She continued to worship him with her body, the aching desire controlled barely by the emotions inside of her. She didn’t let people in. It was an occupational hazard, yet here she was, loving this man as if she’d known him forever. And who knows, she probably had. Finding that her hands touching him wasn’t enough, she brought her feet into the party, letting none of him go untouched.

His mouth wandering over her form, Vin let his hands slide up and down her thighs as he delivered sucking kisses to her breasts. The word perfect kept repeating over and over in his mind. Physically he’d never seen anyone more perfect. Moving into position, he lifted his mouth from her breasts and sought out her mouth – wanting to be kissing her when he took her.

She responded to the kiss as intensely as he gave it. Her mouth opening to accept his hot tongue. The taste of him was intoxicating to her, and if she could have devoured him, she would have. Her hips were moving of their own free will, seeking him out, wanting him inside of her.

Surging up, he slid into her smoothly and stopped, not wanting to do anything as he simply savored the feeling of being inside her. Completely surrounded by her. Incredible.

She cried out with the ecstasy of the moment, loving the feel of them being joined. It was a full and complete feeling. A tear came to her eye as she wrapped her legs around his waist. She was a lost woman, and she didn’t care.

His long hair falling around his face as he looked down at her, Vin became enraptured by the look on her face and, with a careful movement, he touched a finger to the tear that slowly worked its way down onto Grace’s cheek. Then, as he balanced himself once more, he leaned down to kiss the spot where it had been before he started a slow – almost reverent – pace, rocking their bodies together gently.

Grace closed her eyes when he kissed her. And for that moment, all she knew was him. He was everything she touched, tasted, and heard. When he pulled up and began moving within her, her eyes locked with his, and
Grace knew he was making love to her.

“Beautiful.” The word escaped his lips again without Vin even realizing he was voicing his thought as he repeated it almost like a mantra, punctuating it with the firm thrusts of his body into hers. He felt like there was no end to either one…no way to tell where she left off and he started or where he stopped and she started. Indefinable.

Grace wrapped her arms around him and held him tightly to her. She moved with him, almost as if they were meant to be as one. Grace hadn’t let herself get this close to someone in a long time. It was risky. But with Vin, being with him, it was fantastic. He was her, and she was him.

Letting his face rest against her neck, Vin thrust into her more firmly, expressing in actions what he didn’t have the words to say. He’d honestly never met a woman like Grace Hammond and being with her like he was… it was as if a spell had been cast over him. If Vin Tanner were the type to believe in magic then he’d say that was what was going on. As it was, he could do little more than express his awe in his touches and caresses. There was no word to describe it.

As they moved together, Grace felt herself building toward a climax.
But she wasn’t ready yet. She doubted that she ever would be. Although, it was an inevitable situation. This man was bringing out responses in her that were more than anything she’d felt in a very long time. She had no doubts that they were meant to be together. And as she fell over the precipice, leaning into him and crying his name, she knew that here with him was where she belonged.

Feeling her tighten around him, hearing her softly cry his name, it was too much for Vin’s over-sensitized body and he groaned out her name as he thrust into her once more and exploded, his reactions seeming to wrench themselves from his control as he let himself get lost in her.
Completely and truly lost.

With their bodies now spent, she held him tightly to her, not willing to let anything come between them and this moment. Grace was a firm believer that if it was right, then love at first sight was possible. She knew how she felt for him. It was coming from every pore of her body. It was in the tears of happiness that she shed as she lightly touched his hair, his back… everything.

Not wanting to crush her, Vin rolled free of her body and stretched out next to her. Holding her close, he touched her cheeks in an attempt to stem the tears. “Didn’t hurt ya, did I?” he questioned, his touch gentling just in case. Last thing he wanted to do was hurt her.

She smiled and placed her head against his chest. “Oh no. I’m just so… so touched.” She wasn’t good at speaking emotions, and especially wouldn’t say anything until she was sure how he felt. “I just haven’t felt… this… in a very long time.” She bit her lip. Damn talkative, that was Grace.

“Ain’t felt it either…” Vin agreed, his hand moving to run over her hair. “Not sure what to do about it. ‘Cept hold ya…”

“Please do,” she said, wrapping her arms as best she could around him and squeezing him. “For as long as you can stand it is fine with me.”
She clamped her mouth shut again and finally looked up at him. “I have this horrible habit of talking too much when I’m happy. It’ll drive you insane after a while. Believe me. I haven’t met a man yet who hasn’t eventually asked me to be quiet.” She buried her face in his chest. “Sorry,” came her muffled response.

That brought a soft laugh from him and Vin reached down with his hand and lifted her face toward his as he leaned down to kiss her. “Ain’t gonna bother me.” He grinned. “Been told I don’t talk enough…good balance I think. Y’can talk all you want and I’ll listen all I want.”

Her eyes spoke her gratitude, but they turned imploring as she asked,
“And if I say something I shouldn’t. Something that scares you so badly that you feel the need to run out of here and proclaim I’m a crazy woman. What then?”

A wry grin quirked his features. “Then Josiah or somebody’ll tell me to shut the hell up and go back to bed. I’ll listen to ‘em and come back
in here.” Kissing her again, the sharpshooter ran a hand over her hair.
“My Ma used to tell me quit borrowing trouble. I’d enough to deal with as it was. Quit worryin’ about somethin’ that probably ain’t gonna happen and get rest huh?”

“I’m a worrier by nature. You’ll learn that.” She tried to mask it with a giggle, but he’d hit a spot with her. “My mother says that worrying is futile. Tells me not to do it, but truth be known, she worries more than I do.” She looked up at him and moved so her head fell against his neck. “You’ll be here when I wake up?”

“It’s y’Ma’s job t’worry,” Vin noted with a grin then his face softened and his tone gentled. “Yeah, I’m gonna be here when y’wake up. Ain’t gonna go nowhere until I’m good and ready.”

“Good,” she said, snuggling in. She knew she had a lot to tell him. A lot about who and what she was that would more than likely push him away. And for some reason – though she really knew why – that saddened her more than she wanted to think about right now. She’d have to tell him, of course. But not now, not tonight. She wanted this one night to believe that they were alike, that she was like him. She didn’t even realize how tightly she held him, but she wasn’t letting him go.

His hands stroking over her back and her hair, Vin tried to sooth her into sleep as if knowing – and perhaps on some level he did – that something was bothering her. Something he couldn’t make go away. He didn’t know what it was but he did know she was far too tense. So, with his gentle touches, he did the best he could to ease her into a relaxed sleep. For now, there was nothing to concern themselves with. Not for the moment anyway. And they’d worry about later when later came.

She let herself be lulled by the sense of him. And she was indeed lucky to have this moment in time. It was one she would remember for the rest of her life. She’d hold it close to her heart and never let it go.
With a snuggle, she finally let herself relax and fall into as deep a sleep as she could. He was with her… here and now. And if that was all she could have, she’d take it. But she was going to fight with everything she had to have him for more than just this moment. She loved him. No doubts about how she felt.

Likewise, lying in the darkness holding her, Vin knew the feelings brewing in his heart were a lot more powerful than he’d at first thought. He was falling in love with her. That was trouble but he didn’t care. Bring it on. He was willing to take the risk with her. Grace wasn’t like other women. She knew about the price on his head. She knew and she’d let him go anyway. It amazed him and for that fact alone he loved her. Five hundred was a pretty penny. To pass it up based on a gut feeling. He was awed.

Awed and honored.

*-*-*

When Vin and Grace walked into breakfast the next morning, neither one showed any sign of what had transpired between them the previous night.
It wasn’t that they were trying to hide anything from the others. They just didn’t want to discuss it in the middle of the saloon over breakfast. Particularly since Buck and JD weren’t exactly known for being able to keep their conversations *quiet*.

Grace was, however, a bit concerned about the conversation they had had about her yesterday… had it only been yesterday? She didn’t blame any of them for being wary of her. She took the seat held for her. “Good morning,” she said to the group as a whole.

“Mornin’ Miz Grace,” JD mumbled around a mouthful of eggs.

Josiah rumbled a sleepy good morning over his coffee while Buck gave her a winning smile. “Well good mornin’ Darlin’…you sleep a’right?”

“Better than I have in ages,” she responded, a bright smile on her face. She ordered her breakfast. If there was one thing Grace could do, it was eat. “How ’bout you all?”

A round of ‘goods’ was the responses as the rest of the Seven, save a rather comatose Ezra, answered her.

“Don’t mind ol’ Ez,” Vin noted with a grin as Inez set a cup of coffee before him. “He ain’t no where near awake yet.”

“I beg to differ Mr. Tanner,” the southerner drawled. “But at this ungodly hour of the morning, most of the town’s fair citizens are still reclining in slumber yet you all insist upon dragging me from my slumber to sit in this wretched restaurant while you shovel food into your mouths.”

“He’s also not the most cheerful in the morning,” Nathan added with a grin.

She couldn’t help but chuckle. “Then I’ll pay him some respect and keep friendly chatter to a minimum. No talk about the weather… or horses… or card games. Nothing.” She gave Vin a wink and sipped at her coffee. Grace was definitely a morning person. She wasn’t much of a sleeper.

Tanner winked back, a fact that didn’t go unnoticed by a bemused Chris, and flashed a grateful smile at Inez as she set a plate before him then
Grace. “Let him grumble. Ez’s never happier than when he’s got somethin’ to complain about.”

She did laugh at that. It sounded like someone she knew, someone she enjoyed harassing. “Well, in that case…” She took a bite of her eggs.
Swallowing she said, “Nah, I’ll wait until after I eat. Unless of course, there’s something else you guys want to talk about?”

“Naw, we’ve got most covered.”

After JD’d spoke, Chris leaned forward and offered a dangerous smile.
“You got anything worth talkin’ about?”

“Well, I suppose that depends on all of you.” She looked over at Vin and sighed, “I guess though that I should really tell you everything you need to know about Ridgeway.” She didn’t want to, what she wanted to do was have a pleasant morning breakfast. But she had no idea how close behind her he was.

“It would help,” Josiah put forward. “But, enjoy your breakfast first.”

All the men nodded.

“Indeed Miz Hammond,” Ezra put forward showing more life than he had before. “Do enjoy your morning meal and we shall worry about business and all that sort of thing later.”

Vin looked to Chris who nodded his agreement. Vin had the feeling his friend wanted to talk to Grace when the others weren’t present then pass on whatever he felt like later on.

She gave them all a smile of appreciation. “Thank you all.” She noticed the look exchanged between Chris and Vin. Later would be good. She made a point to enjoy her breakfast and enjoy the small talk of the morning.

*-*-*

Vin led Grace out to the stable where they saddled up their horses.
“Chris wants t’talk to you with just me there. Figured it might be a little easier on y’and he can pass on whatever he needs to the others.”
Helping her into the saddle, he smiled. “He’s workin’ on a spread of his outside o’town so we’re gonna ride out there and have a talk.”

She touched his shoulder lightly and said, “That would probably be best. It’s an interesting story to tell.” She wondered exactly how much of it she should tell. It was the forefront of her thoughts as she let Vin lead her to Chris’s home. Should she tell them about why Ridgeway was following her? She wasn’t sure how he’d take to the fact that she was an immortal. She didn’t want to lose him just when she found him. She could drive herself crazy thinking about it.

Riding alongside her, Vin kept an eye out for any surprise attacks as they made their way through the woods to the open field where Chris was working on his ranch. “He’s startin’ to warm up to you,” he added. “You’re the kind of person he likes having along side ’em.”

That caused her to slow Eternity just a pace as she said, “Me?” She shook her head. “Chris is a tough one to figure out, Vin. I mean, I took one good look at you and knew you weren’t a cold-blooded killer. But Chris… Yesterday he distrusts me and today I’m growing on him.” She paused again and added, “He knows about us. He’s very perceptive.” Not that she didn’t want to shout it from the rooftops, but she respected his need for some privacy.

“He is,” Vin agreed. “And never lets on what he’s really thinking. Not to most folk and you’re right. He knows. Knew the minute we walked in.”

She smiled. She’d just laid out ten different topics and he’d responded to each and every one. He did listen to her! “I’m warming up to him too,” she said, “hope he doesn’t change his mind about me.

“Naw…Chris ain’t one for changing his mind.” Her companion grinned. “He’s a mite bullheaded y’might say.”

She snapped her fingers. “You know, the same has been said of me, though most times ‘stubborn’ goes before it and an explicative comes after.” She shrugged. “Believe it or not, most people don’t really like me.”

“Fine by us,” Vin drawled back. “Most folks don’t like us.”

“Then we are a perfect team,” she smiled as they approached Chris’s home. “So that’s the humble abode,” she asked.

“Yeah that’s it,” Vin agreed as they rode up to where Chris Larabee waited, leaning against the wall.

“Nice ride out?” the Seven’s leader questioned casually.

“Quiet,” his friend responded as he dismounted and held Eternity still so Grace could as well.

She swung her leg over her horse and dismounted. Looking around, she said, “I like this.” Of course, she was also looking at it from a defensible point of view. “This is a very nice spread.”

Chris nodded. “Yeah, quiet most of the time.” He waited until Vin had tied up the horses, then lead them inside to begin their talk.

*-*-*

After pouring them all a cup of coffee, the leader of the Seven reclined against a wall while Vin seated himself at the table, relaxed, next to Grace.

“So who the hell is this Ridgeway?” Larabee asked bluntly.

She took a sip of her coffee and then looked the leader directly in the eyes. “He’s a bounty hunter. But not like any you’ve ever met. He likes to follow me around and try to take my bounties. It’s a game he plays.” She looked back at Vin. “He rarely wins though, which only makes him more determined. He’s good too. One of the best, though not one of the most honest.”

“How predictable is this guy? He a loose canon or does his ‘game’ have a set of rules to it?”

Grace shrugged. “He’s predictable in that he’ll do whatever he deems necessary to get Vin. He’s been known to kidnap for exchanges, but I’ve never known him to kill. If he’s unstable enough, I wouldn’t put anything past him. And, Chris, he’s a hard kill. Even if you think you’ve killed him, you may not have.”

“Bullet through the head usually does the trick…” Vin drawled out from his reclined position next to her.

“He fast on his feet? Wear some kinda protection against the bullets?” the sandy-haired man questioned, his intense eyes fixed on the blonde.

Man, she didn’t want to go into exactly how she knew. But he had a good point. “He is very fast on his feet. And he’s very, very good at any form of fighting… including gunfighting. And no, he doesn’t wear protection, but he’s good at making you think he’s dead when he isn’t.”

Larabee frowned and pushed away from the wall, setting his tin coffee cup down on the table, leveling a gaze at her. “What aren’t you telling me?”

Her eyes locking with his, she said, “I’m telling you everything.”
‘Everything you need,’ she thought. “He’s been doing this for years,
Chris. Years. He’s a survivor. It shouldn’t be too hard to believe. Just keep an eye on the guys. To get to Vin, he’ll more than likely head that way first.”

Both men frowned at that and their concerns instantly focused on their friends. Grace’s words having the desired effect of luring them away from the truth behind Ridgeway’s continued survival. And hers.

“We’d best keep an eye on each other then,” Tanner suggested to his friend, referring to the group as a whole.

The other man nodded his agreement. “Best thing t’do…”

On that, the conversation was ended.

*-*-*

Riding back to town, Vin could tell something was on Grace’s mind but he didn’t think it would be a good idea to voice it in the middle of the countryside where anyone could hear. So, instead he let things fall silent until they were in the town’s stable, unsaddling their horses.
“Anythin’ y’feel the need to share?”

They’d only known each other two days. Two days and he could read her like a book. ‘Got to get better at masking things, kiddo,’ she heard her mother say. “Probably,” she answered honestly. “A lot of them I don’t want to talk about though. There’s things about me that you don’t know. Things above and beyond what you would consider normal.” She shrugged. She didn’t want to ruin what they had here, and if he knew, he could walk away from her. That was the last thing she wanted.

“Y’d be surprised what I consider normal,” Vin countered calmly, remembering people he’d known before coming to Four Corners. People in Texas.

Grace began to pace the stables. “Not like this you haven’t. I’m serious.” She paced by him, her eyes looking up at his. “I’ve had people run screaming down the road when they find out. Most don’t believe me, others think I’m crazy.” She wasn’t necessarily watching where she was going. She didn’t want to lose him and all that was going through her mind was, ‘You tell him and he’ll leave you.’

Throwing Peso’s saddle over the wall of his stall and arranging it, Vin wasn’t watching either. “You’d be surprised what I’d believe Grace.”

She needed to calm herself. She should tell him. She’d have to tell him. It wasn’t like he wouldn’t notice in a few years anyway. She hopped up on the wall of Eternity’s stall and watched her lover as he calmly took care of her horse. “Do you believe all those fairy tales you were told as a child? About monsters… about witches? Because if you don’t, you’ll never believe what I have to tell you.” It was then that her faithful horse decided he wanted some attention, but in his haste, he knocked her off the wall. Now Grace wasn’t one to panic, but she knew she was in trouble when she felt intense pain and then looked down at the leg she’d landed on to see a rake sticking clean through it.

“Son of a…” Racing around the side of the stall, Vin dropped to his knees next to her and examined he wound. “Don’t move, I’ll go get
Nathan!”

She reached out quickly, grabbing him much harder than she actually intended. “Don’t!” she hissed. Damn, this was not the way she wanted him to find out!!!! “Just do me a favor and pull it out, okay?”

“Pull it out?!” The sharpshooter stared at her as if she’d lost her mind. “Y’d start bleedin’ all over the place!”

She nodded. “You’re right.” She made sure she had his attention as she said, “But you asked to know what it was I had to tell you, and although this isn’t ideal, it’s probably the best way. I’ll bleed, but not for long. Trust me, Vin. Just pull it out.”

He met her gaze questioningly, holding it for a long moment, then nodded once. “You keep bleedin’ and I’m gettin’ Nathan you got it?”

She nodded. It was easy to agree because she knew it would stop. “Deal.
After we get it out, we’ll remove my pants so you can see for yourself.
How’s that?”

Vin, despite the gravity of the situation, grinned at her. “Now’s not the time for *that* Grace…”

She gave him a smirk and said, “True. But you can see when it stops bleeding and then maybe it will be. Besides, I can’t leave this stable with blood all over my pants.”

“You’d rather leave it *without* pants?” Vin kept her talking as he gripped the rake, ready to pull it out.

“To tell you the truth,” she gritted her teeth, yet continued to talk.
“I hate clothing. Rather go nude than wear it.” She bit back a scream as he quickly pulled out the rake. “Oh shit that hurt.” With shaky fingers, she started to undo her pants.

“Go nude huh?” The sharpshooter gave her a leer as he helped pull the pants free. “I like that idea.” He ignored her shapely body as he stared at the wound in shock. “Damn…”

She gave him a weak smile. “Believe what you see.” There was a white light, what resembled lightning, that was knitting through her wounds.
The bleeding was stopping, and the wounds were closing. Before she even began to wipe away the blood with her ruined pants, she explained, “I belong to a race that is inappropriately called Immortals. We age chronologically only. Not biologically. Our bodies can heal themselves so dying of wounds such as this or sickness or aging is impossible.”

“You’re one of ‘em?” Vin questioned in surprise, sitting back and looking into her eyes.

“I am. I was born in England in the year 985 AD.” She swallowed hard.
Here it was, make or break. She wouldn’t blame him if he left her here and now. “There’s so much more to tell you, Vin. But I honestly wouldn’t blame you for walking out of here right now and never looking back.” She prayed he wouldn’t, but it was always a chance… not like she had a choice though.

“Damn…never even thought you were and I was gettin’ pretty good at
figurin’ on who was and who wasn’t.”

She stared at him long and hard. “What do you mean, ‘figurin’ out’?
Have you met immortals before?”

“Yeah. Back in Texas.”

She crossed her brows and sat up. The fact that she only wore her underwear from the waist down didn’t occur to her in the least. “Who?” she asked.

“Guy by the name of MacLeod.” Vin pushed himself to his feet and went to his saddle, tossing his coat to her. “Guide for the Rangers. Helped me get outta Texas.”

“Duncan MacLeod?” Grace laughed as she grabbed the coat and wrapped it around her. “You’ve got to be kidding me? Duncan MacLeod of the Clan
MacLeod,” she said in an almost perfect imitation of him. “I sort of taught him for a few years.”

“Yeah that’s him. You did huh?” Looking back at her, he chuckled. “Bet that was a sight.”

She put her hands on her hips and teased, “And just what do you mean by that?”

“You’re not exactly the biggest person out there.” Vin smirked. “Skinny little thing actually.”

She laughed. “You see, that’s the deception. Skinny, yes. But when it comes down to it, I do what has to be done. And I’m fast, and have these really strong legs. There are places that if you kick someone, it will put them down in a second.” She exposed her leg to him. “Believe it or not!” She gave him a wink.

“You kick there and there’ll be no repeat of last night,” the mortal reminded with a wink of his own.

She laughed. “Well there too, but I was meaning the knee. A good drop kick to the knee will put anyone down. The kneecap isn’t as strong as it looks. They give easily if hit the right way. And *no* I won’t show you how it’s done. But if a man can’t stand, he can’t fight.” She moved closer to him, leaning in she continued, “And I’m phenomenal with a sword. You wouldn’t believe…” Her voice had taken on that sultry tone. She couldn’t believe he wasn’t running out on her. A ‘repeat of last night’… how lucky was she?! She was loving him more every minute she spent with him.

“Like I said,” Vin smirked. “You’d be surprised what I believe.” His twinkling eyes met her seductive ones and darkened with his own desires. “Though, I ain’t gonna argue how good you are with a sword… Might ask which kinda sword you’re talkin’ bout though…”

She waggled her brows. “You have to ask?” She smiled devilishly. “I’m good with any sword.” Her hand placed on his chest, she let her finger trail down to the waistband of his pants. “I’ve had over 900 years to practice.”

“Nine hundred huh?” The sharpshooter chuckled. “Might make a man wonder if he can measure up.”

She let her hand wander a bit lower, brushing the front of his pants. “Believe me, it’s I who has to measure up. But in my opinion…” she leaned in and whispered, “you’re fantastic.” She wasn’t normally this aggressive this early in a relationship, but she couldn’t help herself with him.

“Oh yeah?” Abandoning the saddle, he slid his hands beneath his coat and pulled her flush against him. “You’re not careful, ma’am, and we’re gonna end up in the hayloft.”

She pushed herself against him and gave him a kiss before saying, “And who am I to argue? Um… no one.”

“You’re the most beautiful woman in the whole damn territory,” he answered simply.

She pulled away slightly to gaze into his eyes. He was serious about that. It was simply astounding to her that someone could see her as that. She licked her lips as she wasn’t exactly sure how to reply. Her cheeks pinked as she looked down, “Thank you,” she said softly.

Touching her chin gently, he lifted her gaze to his. “Ain’t gotta thank me for pointin’ out the truth.”

She sighed. “It’s not that.” She started to turn this conversation a little more serious than she was wanting it to go. “I just… well… thank you,” she repeated.

“A’right,” Vin nodded, accepting her thanks with a nod before drawing her close for another kiss. “Still the truth,” he added belatedly after releasing her.

“You are tricky, sir,” she smiled. “I just don’t hear compliments very often. Most things I’m told start with explicatives.” She rubbed her nose to his then her hands went into his long hair, as she initiated a deep kiss.

“There were a few times last night where swearin’ was appropriate.”
Tanner grinned at her when they’d come up for air once more. “But that was for what was goin’ right…” He held her lower body close to his then chuckled. “We best get you back to the hotel for new pants, ‘fore someone catches us.”

“Into the hotel for pants?” she asked. “I thought we were going to check out the fantastic accommodations on the second floor of the stable.” She pressed herself against him, rubbing suggestively. “But if you want to go inside, I suppose we could.”

He considered it for a moment then with a muttered, “Aw, hell,” Vin tossed her over his shoulder and climbed up the ladder into the loft.
Finding a blanket, no doubt left by Buck, he spread it then pulled the ladder up. “Ain’t gonna want any surprise visits,” he informed Grace with a meaningful look.

She giggled as she shed his coat. This was a stretch for him.
Apparently, Vin Tanner was a reserved man. But he seemed to be more than ‘up’ for this. “Good thinking. Now, come here,” she let her voice drop as she began working the buttons on her shirt. “I have something to share with you.”

“Somethin’ else?” Vin countered with a smirk, tossing his pants aside, his hands joining her on removing her shirt.

She kissed him once, twice, three times before saying, “Nope, just me.”
She made quick work of his buttons and they helped each other off with their shirts. Suddenly, she was very thankful to have fallen on that rake.

“All I need then,” he responded, taking her mouth once more as they fell back onto the blanket.

Grace enjoyed making love in some of the more untraditional locations.
But with Vin, when he held her, she forgot where she was. The universe around her ceased to exist and all that mattered was him.

Pouring himself into loving her, Vin forgot where they were and just focused completely on the woman in his arms and how he made her feel. She was his only concern at that moment and he was damn sure going to make sure she knew it.

He built her up to a fevered pitch. He may have been considerably younger, but he made her feel like no one had in centuries. To her, ‘beautiful’ was the only word that could describe what she was thinking right now. And as she fell over the edge, she knew that she was treasured.

Vin held off as long as he possibly could, wanting the chance to watch her in action before he let himself go but, as he was beginning to discover, her body demanded his and he fell after her with a low moan of her name.

She brought him in for a deep, long, passionate kiss before holding him to her. It took forever, so it felt, to get her breathing under control. “Vin…” she said, not sure what it was exactly that she wanted to say, but she couldn’t formulate the words so she simply repeated his name.

“Yeah,” he agreed, unable to find his own breath as he lay next to her and held her close. “I know.” There were no words for whatever was developing between them but he knew he wasn’t about to let it go. Immortality or no immortality.

She shed a tear, but wiped it quickly before he could see it. She wasn’t one to say things first. She wanted to be his forever… though he could never be hers. But she’d stay with him for his lifetime if he wanted her to. And in a way, he’d gain his own immortality because she loved him, and that was something that would never stop. She’d love him forever. She just wished she could give voice to it.

Though he didn’t see the tear, he sensed the melancholy of her thoughts and kissed her temple. “Forever in a moment. That’s the only one that matters.”

“And it’s what I want,” she responded, holding him tightly. She gave herself a good mental shake and kissed his bare shoulder. “And this is only the beginning,” she playfully slapped his bare bottom.

“Behave woman,” Vin mock-growled back, his grip tightening possessively.

She laughed. “Oh dear. I never behave. I definitely misbehave. It’s my second nature. What will you do if I don’t behave?” she teased.

“You’ll like it,” he promised with a low chuckle.

She gasped. “Me? Hm…. I’m definitely going to misbehave some more.”
She began swatting his hiney, humming along with the tune she was playing. She enjoyed seeing him lighten up like this. It did him some good.

Laughing, Vin grabbed her hands and pinned them above her head. “You lookin’ to get that behind of yours tanned?”

She waggled her brows as well as her hips. In her best southern accent, she said, “Why I do believe that is my intent, kind sir.”

He smirked. “Might not want ta use that accent. Ezra might hear ya…”

She laughed. “Ah! I could use any number of others. But that’s my favorite.” She wrapped her arms around his neck. “But no way is Ezra getting up here.”

“Good. Cause I ain’t sharing,” Vin countered, his lips finding her earlobe.

“I could say the same,” she said. But realizing that she had to share him with his friends. They seemed like a tight knit group. “Mmmm…” she suddenly lost her train of thought.

“You sayin’ somethin?” her lover questioned, lifting his head to smirk at her.

“I’m always saying something,” she laughed. “Just this time, I forgot what it was.” Her hands found his hair again; she absolutely loved his long hair.

He chuckled. “Bet you’ll remember sooner or later.” His mouth went to her chest and he sucked for a moment before grinning up at her. “You’re good with that sorta thing.”

“What? Talking?” She stopped to moan at what he was doing. He may have been centuries younger, but he was damn good at this! “Focusing on words is kinda… um… difficult. But later…… Oh God!”

“Careful,” Vin cautioned with a laugh. “Josiah might think you’re prayin’ up here and come to help.”

She couldn’t help but snicker. “Wouldn’t he be shocked? And it’s your fault, you know. You’re too darn good at this.” Touching him was her lifeline at this moment in time.

“My pleasure ma’am,” he drawled in a honey smooth tone. “Josiah shocked? Naw, what he don’t know about women ain’t worth knowin’.” Vin’s hands wandered over her smooth legs as he spoke. “Though he ain’t knowin’ anything near you.”

“Now that, darling, we agree on,” she responded, as she pulled her leg up toward him. “I’m a one man woman.” And she meant that. She was his for as long as he either lived or wanted her. There was no choice for her in that matter… not anymore.

“Thought you’d say that,” Vin responded with a possessive grin before kissing her deeply again. “Damn but you’re beautiful,” he informed her honestly, his gaze locked with hers, hands wandering over her body. Marking and claiming. Discovering.

She gazed into his eyes and smiled. “You keep telling me that and my head is going to expand so much I won’t be able to leave this barn, Mr.
Tanner.” But deep down, she appreciated the words of endearment. She didn’t get to feel this way often. “And you’re phenomenal. What a pair we are!”

“An interestin’ one that’s for sure.” Her lover smirked again before kissing her gently and grinning again. “And y’won’t hear me complain if we never leave though you might get a mite hungry after a few days.”

She laughed at that. She did enjoy food. It was a wonder she could stay thin with the amount she ate. Smacking his bare rear end, she countered, “And you wouldn’t? I beg to argue here, especially since this feels so good…but you need to eat too.”

He nipped at her breast. “I know.” Vin winked. “We can sneak out after dark and get back to the hotel. Change and have dinner.”

“Mmmmm,” was her response. “I suppose that would be good, since I have no pants.” Her hands went into his hair and she pulled him up to her for a deep, intense kiss. She loved kissing him. His lips begged for her to kiss them. And she wasn’t one to resist.

When they paused for air, he grinned lazily. “That too, though, I like ya with no pants.” Gripping her hips he rolled them over so he could look up at her.

She smiled brightly, her eyes twinkling. She loved being on top. She took the opportunity to kiss all of him… every inch. She paused at his navel though and smiled evilly. “I like you with no pants too.” She paid homage to the rest of him before moving back up and kissing him deeply. Rubbing herself against him, she said, “Oh yes. I definitely like you without pants.” That said, she lowered herself on him and sat there, feeling them joined.

Groaning, Vin thrust up, his hands on her thighs. “Ain’t gonna hear me argue,” he said hoarsely, eyes shut as he pressed back against the blanket covered hay beneath them. “Not a damn bit…”

She leaned down and kissed his closed eyes. “Relax, darling. Nice and slow.” She lifted up and ran her hands down his chest, trying to calm him. Thrusting wasn’t key to this coupling.

“Slow…” he repeated in a husky voice, opening his eyes to anchor them in hers while his hands sought out hers.

Their hands joined and Grace gazed at him as she began to move. But it wasn’t an up and down motion… more of a figure eight. Each was touched deeply, yet every inch of them was stimulated. She didn’t do this often; it kept it very special. She moved slowly, yet surely, keeping the rhythm easily.

The intensity between them built as Vin stared back at her, his body moving only minutely, savoring the slow passionate fire they were stoking. Embers burning in their eyes as they rocked together.

The beauty of making love this way was when climax came, it was slow, but extremely powerful. The slow build spiking one of the most overwhelming climaxes she’d ever had. The intimacy was just as powerful. And her position gave her ample opportunity to watch him… her eyes never leaving his.

His eyes fought to stay open as his body tensed up with hers. She was beautiful at the best of times but now…she was even more so.
Incredible… he wished he knew some of Ezra’s fancy words to describe her but the best he could come up with was beautiful.

As their bodies came down from the rush, Grace fell forward slowly, resting against his chest. “On second thought, let’s never leave this loft.” She kissed his chest tenderly and snuggled in. Too bad, he couldn’t see the smile on her face because he was the one who put it there.

Running a hand over her hair, Vin settled in against the blanket and chuckled. “Ain’t such a bad idea. The others can hoist up our food on a rope or somethin’ and they can send up water in buckets the same way for when we need t’wash up.”

“Mmmmmm, I dearly love that idea. The next time someone wanders in here, have them send for Chris. I’m sure he’ll set it all up for us.”
That, of course would also take care of the Ridgeway problem. But she closed her eyes, not wanting to think of him right now.

“Smart woman,” Vin teased back, his hand wandering down to stroke her back. “Best rest up a while… sooner or later somebody’s gonna come lookin’.”

“Good. Have them bring up more blankets too, will ya? Gonna get cold in here at night.” She laughed lightly and moved off him just a bit, though she snuggled in. “I like your space,” she said, off-handedly.

“I like havin’ y’in it,” the lean man replied softly, pulling his coat over to drape over her body.

“Good,” she said softly, letting her eyes close. “Wake me when supplies arrive.”

“Yes ma’am,” he drawled in return, holding her close.

*-*-*

Chris had four of the Seven before him, all watching him intently, as he talked about their quarry. About the man hunting Vin. He didn’t have to worry about losing their attention, when it came to one of their own, the Seven were incredibly protective of each other. To the point that it scared most other folks.

“Man’s relentless, and smart. Grace’s tried to cover her tracks before and he still finds her. Man’s damn crafty. Ain’t gonna listen to no arguments ‘bout Vin either. He’s in this for the money, innocent or guilty don’t bother him none.”

Vin was leading Grace into the sheriff’s office when she overheard Chris’s last statement. She knew he’d call this meeting sooner or later, and Vin’s safety was enough to drag her down from that loft. When they entered, she smiled and said, “Good evening all.”

A chorus of “Evenin’ Grace” was her response and the men made room for her and Vin to settle in the group, Buck offering up the chair behind the desk to Grace with a smile and a respectful look at Vin. The ladies man wasn’t above poachin’ on another man’s territory but not one of his brothers in arms. Even if the lady was as lovely as Grace.

“Thank you,” she said, returning Buck’s smile before turning her full gaze on Larabee. It wasn’t a friendly one either. It was all business.
One she hadn’t shown any of them yet, not even Vin. But it was one that said she meant business… and made it easy to see why she was so good at her job. “You were telling them about Ridgeway, I heard. How much did you tell them?”

“Most everythin’ you told me,” Larabee answered honestly. “Warnin’ ‘em what to expect. You have anythin’ to add?”

She looked at Vin, knowing he would definitely understand where maybe the others wouldn’t. Turning back to Chris, she said, “He’s a hard kill. He knows it. So he stops at nothing to get what he wants. This time, he’ll want Vin. He’s next to unstoppable and he doesn’t give up.” She knew she’d end up killing Ridgeway over this. She’d avoided it because, even though he was in it for the money, the man had done away with a lot of ‘garbage’. But when he came after Vin, she’d have to kill him. “He never quits.”

“Shoot to kill,” Chris agreed with a nod. “Don’t wait for him t’draw.
If you see ‘em…shoot.” He wasn’t sure why but Grace had insisted on that earlier. Given the look in her eyes, he wasn’t about to argue. “Then make sure Grace here knows. She’s gonna want to see the body.”

She nodded. “Don’t call the mortician, don’t go get any of the other guys. Just find me. I’ll stick toplaces where you’ll be sure to find me. And I mean this guys, you shoot until he’s dead and then come find me. Okay?”

Though they had no idea *why* it was important they find her, the men nodded. Something was up here and they weren’t sure what it was but it was sure as hell important. They could see that by the deadly serious look in her eyes. Whatever was going on, Grace Hammond wasn’t playing around.

“Any idea of when he might show up?” Josiah asked from where he leaned against one of the cells.

She shrugged. “He’s out there right now. But he’s watching and waiting.
Learning Vin’s patterns, learning about his friends. He’s probably been in town once or twice when he was sure I wouldn’t find him. When he decides to move, it will be when we least expect it. *That’s* his pattern. We just have to be ready.” Of course, she couldn’t tell them that there was no way he could sneak up on her. But from here on out, she carried her tachi wherever she went.

As a matter of fact, she wore it tonight.

That brought frowns from them all but a confident statement from JD.

“Then we’ll have to be always expectin’ ‘em!”

“Not a bad idea,” Chris mused with a speculative look.

She smiled at JD. ‘From the mouths of babes,’ she thought. But he was right. “He’s pegged each of you by now.” She noticed one was missing from the group, but hadn’t said anything about it until now. “Since there’s eight of us in this right now, it’s best if we travel in pairs. He’s not above taking a hostage to trade for Vin.”

“Speaking of which, where’s Ezra?” Nathan interrupted, sitting up.

“Thought he was in the saloon.” Their leader frowned.

“Wasn’t there when I left.” Buck straightened up with a concerned look.

“Ain’t anybody seen ‘em?” Vin questioned with a worried expression.

Grace let her head fall into her hands before standing. “Ridgeway has him. Damn!” All pretenses of a lady vanished. She wasn’t the leader here, so she looked to Chris. She so wanted to take charge, but wouldn’t take anything from Chris. “We need to find him.”

Larabee nodded. “A’right, split up into groups of twos. Vin, Grace, you come with me. We’ll look over the town first, we don’t find him here we go out lookin’.”

Before everyone left, she reiterated, “He’ll use Mr. Standish against us if he thinks it will get him anywhere. Be careful, guys.” She didn’t want to lose any of them. They were all becoming special to her in their own ways.

“We’ll watch each other Miz Grace,” JD assured. “Don’t you worry ‘bout us.”

She whispered softly. “Can’t help it, boys. It’s my fault he’s here.”
She should have left long ago, to divert him away. But she hadn’t. The pull of Vin was too strong. And now, Ezra was going to pay for it. No doubts, this was her fault. But knowing her, she’d do it all again.

“Naw, he’d’ve found me anyway,” Vin assured. “And if not him then somebody else.”

“There’s usually somebody gunning for one of us,” Chris noted with a wry smirk. “We just seem to attract it.”

She looked up, almost surprised they’d heard. “I’m a guilt magnet,” she said. “I just didn’t want to leave.” She shrugged and moved out of the sheriff’s office. She’d know when Ridgeway was around long before he could sneak up on them. “Where do you want to start, Mr. Larabee?”

“Walk round the outskirts of town,” Chris responded, steering them in that direction. “If he’s watching, seeing us out on our own might lure him into doin’ somethin’ stupid.”

Grace doubted it. Everything that Ridgeway did was carefully thought out. But Chris was right about one thing, he wouldn’t be holding Ezra inside town. She unclipped her tachi, so she could more easily draw it when the time came. All her senses tuned to finding Ridgeway’s Quickening. She prayed they found him before the others.

As Chris led them to the outskirts to begin circling around the sprawling town, Vin watched Grace. She hadn’t said anything to him but he had a feeling that Ridgeway was another Immortal. It just seemed to him that she was far too worked up over it for him to be another mortal. Mortals were probably easier for her to deal with and she wouldn’t have insisted on seeing the body immediately. It didn’t make much sense otherwise. It was the only option Vin could think of. She was afraid of them facing him because none of them were prepared to fight one of ‘em and she knew it. Unfortunately, he knew it too. MacLeod had taught him a few moves while they were traveling and, from what Vin had seen, he didn’t stand a chance against an Immortal. Not unless it was in a gunfight.

She kept searching out with her senses, trying hard to find him. He was around here, her instincts were telling her that much. She knew Vin was looking at her with questions. They were questions she couldn’t answer right now. Though more than likely, he was thinking correctly. She stooped down to check some tracks and froze. “Chris, he’s here.”

Instantly her companions were on the alert, weapons drawn and looking around, their gazes alert and searching out the other bounty hunter.

“Where?” Chris questioned quietly, one eye on Grace the other on the watch for Ridgeway.

Stepping out from behind a tree, the 6’5″ immortal said, “Why, I’m right here, Mr. Larabee? And Gracie, don’t tell me you decided to bring Mr. Tanner directly to me?” There was a glimmer as the moonlight reflected off his sword.

Grace immediately drew hers. “You’ll never take him. He’s not guilty.”

Ridgeway laughed. “Have you seen the bounty on his head?” He answered his own question. “Of course you have. Grace, how many times do I have to explain this to you? Guilt doesn’t matter. Not at all. Give him to me, and I’ll give you the gambler. He’s nothing to me anyway.”

“No,” Grace said. “Let Ezra go and leave and I won’t kill you.”

“Grace,” Vin spoke with a soft voice, not giving anything away although he knew she’d know what he was trying to say. He wouldn’t ask Ezra to give up his life for him.

Her age was speaking here. Without looking at him, she responded, “He won’t kill Ezra.” To Ridgeway, she said, “You’ve yet to sink that low.”

He shook his head. “I’ve yet to, but Grace, you know I can. Mr. Tanner is right. Hand him over.”

She poised herself, ready to fight. “I could kill you now and track him down. You’ve never been very good at hiding from me.”

“You sure you wanna take that chance?”

She paused, not having an answer to that question. “You’ll not take
Tanner. He’s my bounty.” She had no idea what she was going for here.
Grasping at straws seemed to be the best explanation.

“She did catch me first,” Vin agreed with a smirk. “Ain’t gonna get away either.”

Ridgeway looked at them for a moment. Pointing his sword at her, he said, “If you aren’t heading out of town with him in one day, I’ll kill his friend here. You take him to the forked tree, not too far from where you two met. There, we’ll make the exchange. Cya then, Grace.” And with that, he ducked behind the tree again, and was gone.

Grace’s head slumped. Now what?

“Looks like we’re going on a trip,” Vin noted with a grin to Chris.

*-*-*

As they made their way back to the hotel, Grace was thankful that Chris kept his questions to himself. She wasn’t sure what to tell him. Sooner or later, they’d find out about Immortality. She wasn’t leaving unless
Vin wanted her to. Once Chris excused himself to go tell the others,
Grace let her guard down and her eyes showed every one of her years.
“This is a mess,” she simply said.

“Believe it or not, it’s pretty much business as usual for us,” Vin assured, rubbing her neck gently.

She tried to smile at him. “I don’t like to be in these situations.
Trading one life for another is unacceptable. Every mortal life is important, valuable, and far more necessary than my own.” Her hand went to her forehead, covering her face. “I’m going to end up killing Ridgeway over this.”

“He’s one of your kind ain’t he?” the mortal man questioned softly as his hands worked on her neck. “Y’ain’t got much of a choice in that case.”

His hands on her neck relaxed her, as she said, “He is one of my kind.
And since he insists on pushing the issue, yes, I’ll have to kill him.
Your friends, they can’t do it. We should get some rest. It’s going to be a long day tomorrow.”

“Rest’s a good idea.” Vin leaned down to nip at her ear. “But I’d better tire y’out first. Otherwise y’might not sleep.”

She gazed at him and for the first time since they’d found out that
Ezra was missing she smiled. She said, “You probably should because there’s absolutely no way I’d sleep otherwise.” She sighed and moved into the caress, her arms going around him.

Vin quickly led them inside. Shedding their clothing, the sharpshooter led her to the bed and guided her back onto it. “Figured as much,” he agreed softly, his hands moving over her skin in soothing movements.
“Too tense…”

She shrugged and then tried to relax under his ministrations. “I don’t like fighting my own. I know it’s inevitable, but I don’t like it.
Besides, it’s the only way to get Ezra back. I refuse to trade one life for another.”

“Might not have much of a choice,” Vin remarked, turning her onto her stomach while he rubbed down her back in firm motions.

“Oh, there’s always a choice. You aren’t going with him. And he won’t kill Ezra. I didn’t push tonight because I firmly believe that. But tomorrow…” she paused, “tomorrow, I’ll have to kill him.” She closed her eyes and sighed, “That feels soooo good.”

“It’s supposed to,” he responded, leaning forward to place a soft kiss on the smooth skin of her lower back.

Her head pressed more firmly into the pillow. “That feels even better.”
She didn’t even attempt to open her eyes. “I mean it though, Vin. There will be no trade tomorrow.”

“Worry about tomorrow when it gets here,” her lover deferred before his mouth took the place of his hands and began working along her back.

She moaned softly and wiggled. “You’re gonna make sure I don’t worry tonight, aren’t you?” Of course, the attention he was paying to her was more than answering that. “That feels even better than the massage.”

“Figured,” Vin agreed, moving up to speak into her ear. “If I have my way, you ain’t gonna worry about much for a long time.”

She rolled over and wrapped her arms around his neck. She was fairly sure she wasn’t going to have to worry about the two of them, but his safety was something she’d always worry about. She felt far too much for him not to worry. She caressed his face tenderly as she said, “I can’t help but worry about those I care a lot about. It’s my nature.”

“And we don’t wanna mess with that,” Vin agreed, his lips finding her hand. “Just right the way it is. Like the body it comes in.”

“Mr. Tanner,” she teased, “flattery will get you everywhere.”

His eyes lit with mischief. “Oh yeah? Any particular kinda flattery
y’like?”

She chuckled. “Oh you know, the garden variety type. Tell me what every woman wants to hear, even if it isn’t true.” She continued to caress his face. “And I’ll tell you that I haven’t felt like this in almost 800 years. I haven’t allowed myself to.” She looked down at his chest and sighed.

“Then I’m glad y’finally let yourself. Bad enough t’go without it in a mortal lifespan… but that long?” He shook his head. “Ain’t right for a woman t’be alone that long.”

“Not alone. I have friends… Duncan is one of them. I have family. My mother is immortal as well and very much alive. And I’ve had lovers, but…well… you know.” She couldn’t voice it. She couldn’t do that.
Not after what her first husband had done to her.

“Ain’t none that got real close,” he finished for her, leaning down to kiss her slowly.

She returned the kiss as slowly as he gave it. He was right. She hadn’t let anyone this close in a long time. And, given her nature, she couldn’t pinpoint exactly what he was thinking and feeling. Another byproduct of her first husband.

Sensing her melancholy, Vin began making love to her with all the tenderness he could manage. This was about getting her to calm down, to relax, to forget her responsibilities and her worries. Not about letting her get caught up in the pains of a time long gone. This was about her present not her future and not her past. It was about her.

She relaxed under him and let him make love to her. In this moment, she did indeed forget what she was. All that existed in this moment was her and Vin. This wonderful man who had come into her life and claimed her as his own. There was nothing she wanted more.

Feeling her give herself over to it, he increased the intensity of the act, wanting her to stay lost for as long as he could arrange it. As long as he could protect her.

Grace had been wrong. For so long, she had been wrong. Being without this…this feeling… love, it wasn’t okay. There was nothing right about it. This was what living was all about. And she felt herself coming out of the dark and into the light. And he was giving it to her. She met him move for move, giving him as much as he was giving her.

Both of them had blocked out the outside world. The only thing that existed at that moment was what was going on between them. It was the only thing they needed to concern themselves with and it was the sole focus of their minds. Time was irrelevant, so was worry, and fear. The only things they could concern themselves with was each other and the feelings that were building between them. All else didn’t matter. Not at that moment.

*-*-*

Grace woke the next morning as the sun shone almost too brightly through the window. It cast a glow upon her lover, giving him an almost ethereal look. She touched his hair softly and then kissed his chest.
Thinking, she doubted if life would ever get any better than loving Vin
Tanner.

Waking up to Grace’s ministrations on his body was definitely becoming
Vin’s favorite way to wake up. He lay still for a moment, just enjoying it, before opening his eyes slightly with a smile. “Mornin’ darlin’…”

Busted, she looked up and smiled. “Good morning to you too. I take it you slept well. I slept so soundly an approaching immortal wouldn’t have woken me.”

“Good.” Thinking how that sounded, he chuckled low in his chest. “That
y’slept well. It’d’ve been bad if y’d missed another one of you showin’ up though…”

She smiled. “It would. But I’m not going to worry about that now.” She gave him a wicked smile and pulled the covers up over her head.
“Besides that…you, Mr. Tanner, have something in dire need of attention.” She dropped the cover and moved down to take care of just that. She honestly believed that thirty years from now, she’d still crave him this much.

Vin’s jaw clenched and his eyes slid shut. “Aw hell Grace…” he groaned in appreciation, hands moving to find her hair. “Damn woman…” he added, finding it very hard to put a coherent sentence together.

She chuckled lightly, but seeing as to how her mouth was rather full, it provided a rather unique sensation for the recipient. She was going to make sure this morning was a memorable one. What they were going to face in a few hours could very well burst this bubble of happiness she had built for herself.

*-*-*

Riding along, Chris on one side, Grace on the other, Vin knew he was apprehensive about things. But not because of his own life in danger.
That happened more than enough and he was used to it. No, he was apprehensive because he knew Ezra’s life was in danger because of him and, likewise, Grace was about to risk her life for him. It bothered him immensely. But there was little he could do. This was a situation where she had to be the one to act. He wasn’t Immortal. Just a bystander.

Grace sensed his apprehension and reached over to touch his hand. “It will work out. Trust me.” Before he could respond, she tensed and looked around. The spot where they were to meet was in sight. And sure enough, there was Ridgeway with Ezra bound in tow. “Chris, can you get Mr. Standish?”

“Was plannin’ on it.” The man in black agreed with a nod, guiding his horse off to the side. “Watch your back,” he warned her with a look that said he’d be doing it anyway. Whether she did or not.

She nodded and dismounted her horse. “Stay here, please,” she said to
Vin. “And no matter what, you can’t interfere. When he loses his head, you may feel the need to come to me, but stay away. At least until it’s over.” She wanted so badly to tell him what she felt for him. It was eating her up inside. But it wasn’t something she was willing to risk right now. If he couldn’t give it voice, it would break her. She drew her sword and approached her enemy.

“Don’t you get killed,” Vin said softly, unsure of whether or not she’d hear him but needing to speak anyway. “Ain’t gonna bury nobody I love
t’day…”

She looked up at him and said, “And nobody I love is going to be turned over to Ridgeway. It ends here.” Her eyes held his, letting him know that what she felt was deeper than words. Then she turned and walked away.

Taking a look back at her lover, Grace adjusted the grip on her sword and approached Ridgeway. She did a quick inspection of Ezra to assure herself that he was fine. He was… for someone who was bound and gagged. To Ridgeway, she said, “We don’t have to do this. You can forget about Tanner. He’s innocent.” She didn’t want to do this. For all his problems, Ridgeway brought a lot of criminals to justice. He was going over the edge here, but he could still pull back.

“Tsk, tsk, tsk. Now, Grace. Just because you are fucking him, doesn’t mean he’s innocent. You’ve fucked guilty guys before.”

She sighed. He was trying to push her buttons. But he wasn’t going to get to her. “You have no idea about what goes on with me, and I don’t have to explain myself or justify why I do what I do. Tanner is innocent, that’s all I need to know.”

“And all I need to know is that the bounty on his head is enough to set me up for quite some time. That’s all I need to know, Grace. It’s all any of us needs.”

Grace thought for a long moment. Scenes of men she’d done it to ran through her mind. “You’re wrong. There’s a limit. And we’ve crossed it too many times. It’s got to stop. I won’t let you take in an innocent man and I won’t let you harm another one in order to get to him.”

“Only one way to stop me, Grace. Are you sure you want to do it?”

She thought of her lover and his friends. And there was no doubt in her mind. “If you insist, then I’m sure.”

“So be it,” was his last response as he lunged out and attacked. At one time, the pair had traveled together. In the beginning, they’d been friends. They’d sparred and worked out together. But the dance they performed now was for real. By the end of this round, one of them would be dead.

With a wary look, intermingled with awe at their skill and respect for it as well, Chris moved out around the others, heading toward Ezra. He was the reason they were out there. They needed to get him safe and out of the line of fire. He knew both Grace and Vin wanted that first.
Ridgeway second.

If Vin had been looking in their direction he would have agreed. But he wasn’t. His mind and his eyes were on the deadly dance before him. Part of his mind was impressed by the fluidity of the movements but the rest of him winced every time Ridgeway’s blade moved just too close to Grace for Vin’s liking. He knew the only blow he really had to worry about was the one that would sever her head but it was his nature to want to protect. The fact that he couldn’t protect her here was torturing him. He wanted to pull his mare’s leg and put a hole in Ridgeway but he also knew Grace would have a first class fit if he did. So he had to stand and wait.

He hated waiting.

The fight was wearing on but Grace was showing no signs of fatigue. She was actually settling in and enjoying it. She could tell that he was giving it all he had. Sweat was pouring down his face, while Grace was barely breathing hard. In an act of desperation, Ridgeway charged in and scored a slice along Grace’s side. She barely even hissed though as this gave her the opportunity she needed to spin and remove his head cleanly from his body. He hadn’t even seen it coming. He was one of the lucky ones.

All was silent for a moment as Grace turned to make sure Vin, Ezra, and
Chris were safe. Though she hadn’t doubted that they would be. She looked back at the body as the first few wisps of the Quickening began. She really didn’t like this part.

When Ridgeway went down, Vin almost went forward but Chris’s hand on his shoulder stopped him. “You know what she said,” the older man reminded quietly.

“Ain’t gotta like it.”

“Never said you did.”

“Mr. Larabee, Mr. Tanner, as impressive as your rescue of me is turning out to be, as is Miss Hammond’s part in it, I would be much obliged if one of you were to offer me some libations?” Ezra’s voice, dry and hoarse, was enough to end the staring contest between the two men and, while he freed his canteen from Peso’s saddle, Vin’s eyes returned to Grace.

Taking the canteen, Chris held it out to Ezra while watching Grace as well.

“Might I inquire as to what is so fascinating? Agreed, beheading is not a normal method of killing but neither is swordplay a normal method of fighting between those of a non-Hispanic background, but the actual display has ended. What concerns you… good Lord!” The canteen was forgotten as the Southerner stared in shock at the scene before him.

Light was whipping all around her. She could feel the charges of electricity pushing against her, seeking entry. It never went in easily, and in annoyance bolts of current shot out around Grace as well. It struck the tree that Ezra had been tied to before striking back at her. When it hit her, it was a direct blow to the gut that pushed her back. But she refused to fall. Instead, she gripped her sword tightly and cried out. It was her only fight against the attack.

“Son of a bitch…” Chris swore bluntly, not caring who heard him, though neither Ezra nor Vin was paying enough attention to care.

Vin said nothing. He was too busy staring in awe at the display before him. He knew about Immortals sure…but hearing about Quickenings didn’t do a damn thing to prepare a man for seeing one.

Even the ordinarily verbose Ezra had nothing to say. What could be said in the face of such fury? The electricity was everywhere and hitting anything. It wasn’t to be talked about. It was to be respected.

When it was finally over, Grace fell like a limp rag doll down onto the sandy ground. Everything hurt, and she was extremely aroused. She tingled everywhere and had to fight for almost every breath she took. It was such a duality of sensations. She was drenched in sweat and could hardly move. What a wonderful picture she must have presented!

Once Vin was sure it was over, he rushed forward to drop on his knees next to her. “Hell of a light show darlin’…” he drawled with a relieved smile.

She looked up at him and gave him a smile mixed with relief, tiredness, and arousal. “That was one of the rougher ones. Ridgeway was a busy man.”

“I’ll buy that,” the sharpshooter agreed, reaching to pull her into his arms. “Pretty good with that thing, ain’t ya…”

She wrapped her arms tightly around him, letting his presence calm her, even as it fed her arousal. “I had the best teacher. Wouldn’t dare anger her by losing my head.” She gave a small laugh. “Being a woman, I have to be twice as good as any man or I have no respect. It’s the curse of womanhood.”

“One thing I learned in life…never make a woman mad atcha…Mortal or
Immortal. You’ll pay.” Lifting her up, he began to carry her back to the horses.

She snuggled in, inhaling the scent of him. He smelled like the outdoors, that and sweat. She couldn’t help but run her finger down his neck. “We did it, didn’t we?” she whispered huskily into his ear.

“We did,” the tracker agreed then gave her a wary look. “Behave woman… don’t go gettin’ any ideas out here…”

“Quickening side effects. My whole body is alive, Vin. I can handle this one of three ways. Beat the crap out of someone, get drunk and pass out, or make love to you until you scream. I prefer the latter.” She kept it quiet out of respect, so the other men wouldn’t hear something Vin would consider very private.

Setting her down, he shook his head, eyes twinkling. “Well, I’d better keep you outta jail then.” Turning, he took a few steps to Chris’s side. “I’m gonna take her over to the lake, let her clean up before we go back t’town.”

“Needs little while to get her head on straight?”

“Thereabouts.”

“A’right, Ezra’ll take her horse if she doesn’t mind…” Chris looked to see Grace’s reaction.

She had her hands wrapped around her, holding herself. Shaking her head, she said, “No, I don’t mind. Eternity is a good horse, not picky about who rides him.”

“Much obliged…” The southerner drawled to her. “Don’t worry, Miz
Hammond, I shall endeavor to treat Eternity with the same respect that you would.”

She laughed. “Please treat him better. I pack him down and ride him hard.” She was rubbing her hands on her pants now. “And Mr. Standish, it’s good to have you back with us.”

“It’s good to have you still with us,” Ezra responded with a smile before mounting up on the horse.

Turning from his friends, Vin walked back to her side. “Best get to that lake…”

“Please. I’m turning into a real mess here. And I do need to clean up.”
She wrapped her arms around him, pressing herself to him. She said a silent prayer that he would understand her need. She needed HIM, it was that simple.

Holding her close, he nodded. “Let’s get movin’…don’t wanna keep you waiting.” Letting go of her long enough to mount up on Peso, Vin reached down to pull her up onto the horse with him, settling her on the horse behind him. “Hold on now,” he cautioned in a soft voice.

She shivered slightly and wrapped her arms tightly around him. “Oh no problem whatsoever.” She rested her head on his back and closed her eyes. She was definitely on fire now. Hopefully, it wasn’t far to the lake.

Peso, seeming to understand that his passengers were in a hurry, kept a steady and fast trot on the path that led to their destination. It was a lake hidden by a stand of trees and afforded them little chance of discovery.

Helping her down from the horse, Vin brushed her hair away from her face. “How are you doing?”

“He’s not settling.” She rubbed her arms. “Sometimes, especially if it’s someone I’ve known for a long time, it’s hard for everything to settle.” She moved in, still hugging herself, and rested her head on his shoulder. “Thank goodness I don’t do this often.”

“Glad to hear it,” he responded, stroking his hands down her back and holding her against him. “Don’t think I could handle it if you did that on a regular basis…damn hard to watch.”

She nodded. “I know. And I try to avoid it. I gave him a chance to walk away and he wouldn’t. He’d gone over the edge. It happens sometimes.
Longevity, I think.” She started to relax a bit. “I’m sorry you had to even watch that,” she whispered.

“Don’t be…” the sharpshooter assured. “I’m just glad y’survived.
Wouldn’t want to face watchin’ you die…or losin’ you.”

She swallowed thickly as tears welled in her eyes. “I promise you’ll never have to do either one.” It had to be the Quickening. It always made her super emotional.

“Glad t’hear it,” he countered with a lopsided smile.

She just continued to nod. Her tears seeming to be the only release she had at the moment. It was release from the Quickening and from the thoughts running through her mind. Thinking was not good.

Placing a finger beneath her chin, he lifted her face and slowly began kissing her tears away. “You’re alive,” he reminded her quietly.
“You’re here…with me. Safe.”

She sighed. And he was here. For as long as Fate would let him stay in her life, he was here. And nothing was more important than having him right here and right now. She let herself lean against him, needing the contact and the sound of his voice to pull her through this bit of darkness. “We’re both safe,” she said very softly.

“Thank you for that,” Vin whispered quietly, pressing her closer as he ran his hand through her hair, savoring the feeling of her body against his.

She pulled away just slightly. Whether it was panic or need, she had to say it. “There’s nothing I won’t do to make sure you’re safe. Nothing.”

He smiled and nodded. “Reverse is true too…ain’t no one ever gonna lay a hand on you…won’t let ‘em.”

“Thank you,” she whispered, finally releasing herself and wrapping her arms around him. “You think we could go for that swim now?”

A lazy grin on his face, Vin tossed his hat onto the horn of his saddle and gave her a gaze teeming with mirth. “Now that, Ma’am, is a good idea.”

“You are definitely a man after my own heart, Vin Tanner.” She pulled back and began to unbutton her shirt. She was still a bit in the darkness, losing him was an inevitability. If she thought about it too long, she’d start crying again. She was going to live in the moment. She owed that to them both.

Reaching out, he helped her with the buttons. “Well, that’s not all I’m after.” That was said with a wink as he leaned down to kiss her slowly.
“But it’s the best place t’start…”

“You have everything I am. I haven’t felt this way in a very long time,
Vin. I’m yours for as long as you’ll have me.” She let the shirt slide off her shoulders and began working on his. Of course, she had to get his coat off first.

Shrugging out of his coat, Vin’s hands found their way to her midsection and spanned her waist. “Ain’t plannin’ on lettin’ y’go anytime soon.”

He’d probably change his mind, twenty years from now when he was growing old and she wasn’t. She swallowed tears again and took off his shirt. Pulling away, she put a smile on her face and threw the shirt. “Race you to the water,” she teased.

Taking her hand in his, Vin pulled her close again. “I ain’t kiddin’ you, Grace Hammond… if I put my mind to havin’ something, I damn well don’t change it…too stubborn.” With that, he kissed her, hands intertwined with hers.

“Even when you’re sixty and I still look like I’m twenty-one?” she asked, her heart in her throat.

“Shoot yeah.” The sharpshooter winked. “Every man’s dream…” Sobering, he kissed her forehead. “It ain’t your face I’m interested in…as pretty as it is. It’s the woman behind it.”

She nodded. “Ok, then. I’m yours forever.” As long as forever lasts.
She dabbed at her eyes. “It’s the unsettling emotions making me this way. I’m sorry.”

“Figured, and don’t matter to me…you’re still beautiful.”

He really understood her. How? They’d known one other for only a few days, and here she was willing to trade her Immortality to be able to live out her life with him. “Thank you for understanding me.”

“Thank you for *believing* me,” Vin responded with an earnest and grateful look. “Y’have no idea how that feels.”

She smiled at him. Her first genuine one since early this morning. “I know how I feel. I know how I feel for you. You’re a good man, Vin
Tanner. Anyone who believes you are guilty is a fool.”

“Awful lot of ‘em out there,” he said as his thumbs traced her dimples.
“But you ain’t one of ‘em…”

“Nope. I’m not. And a lot of people wouldn’t stick around after seeing what they just saw or knowing what I am. So I’m grateful for you.
Thanking every god that was ever worshipped, as a matter of fact.” Her hand rested on his arm.

“That about covers ‘em…” The sharpshooter joked before leaning down to brush his lips over hers again. “And anybody’d that leaves after knowin’ you the way I’ve gotten to…they’re damn fools too…”

She put her head down. It was not the easiest thing in the world to explain, but perhaps with Vin it wasn’t necessary. He loved her. That was the end of the story for him, and she knew that. When she looked up at him again, the twinkle was back in her eyes. “Seems like we’ve both had fools in our lives. But no more. I mean this, I’m not going anywhere unless you make me.”

An answering twinkle appeared in his eyes and Vin swept her off her feet, spinning her around before heading toward the lake. “And the only place I’m makin’ you go, is swimmin’!” With that he threw her in.

She shrieked as her hypersensitive body hit the cool water. “Vin
Tanner, that was not nice.” She went underwater and removed the rest of her clothing. Coming back up, she tossed the garments on the shore. “Now get rid of your clothes and come get your punishment,” she teased.

Stripping off his clothing, Vin responded with a definite leer. “Yes ma’am…”

*-*-*

Lifting another board into place, Chris held it steady while Vin rhythmically pounded the hammer down onto the nails fixing it into place. Trusting his friend not to hit his hands, the leader of the Seven let his eyes wander over the men, scattered about the property, and the slim blonde woman who seemed to be everywhere at once. “Grace’s fittin’ in well…”

Without looking up, though the smile on his face spoke volumes, Vin nodded proudly. “Yeah, she’s doin’ great in town…”

“You two ever going to explain what the hell went on with Ridgeway?”
The tracker’s gaze met the leader’s and they stood quiet for a moment.

Finally, Larabee nodded. Trusting his friend. He’d get his explanation in time. Vin wasn’t holding out on it because he wanted to be difficult. More like it was a difficult thing to explain. But then, when wasn’t it difficult?

While the two men were talking, Grace was sliding a cross rail in place while Buck pulled on the post. Her hair was tied back to keep it from her face. When the rail slid in, she stood up and looked at the long line of fence. “He’s going to have a great homestead when this is finished.” She moved to pick up the second rail.

“Yeah.” Buck swept at his forehead with his forearm then looked around.
“Mighty fine piece of property he picked out for it. Then, Chris had a good eye for this sorta thing…always did.”

She smiled and grabbed the canteen, offering him a drink. “Smart guy.
Smartest thing he’s done is surround himself with good friends.” She picked up the rail and slid it into the post. “Done,” she said, “Well, with this bit anyway.”

Taking the canteen with a grateful smile, he took a large gulp then tossed it to JD. “Drink up boy, you’ll kill yourself workin’ in this heat.”

“Look who’s talkin!” The younger man shot back with a defiant grin.

A flash of glee in his eyes, Buck reached out to thwap the kid lightly.
“I’m used to hard labor…city boy like you ain’t worked like this before.”

“Have too!” JD protested.

Turning away with an amused “yeah, right” the tall man tossed a companionable arm around Grace’s shoulders. “C’mon Gracie, let’s go see what the fearless leader wants us to do next. And you’re right…that man has a talent for pickin’ friends…”

She laughed and, even though she was tall for a woman, she had to reach to wrap her arm around Buck’s shoulders. “I’m sure he’ll find something. I think we should negotiate a pay raise or something.” She glanced back at JD and called, “Be careful, City, those fence rails haven’t been tamed yet.”

The young man made a grumbled comment but, since he was laughing, no one paid him much mind.

“Pay raise…now that’s an idea.” Raising his voice, Buck directed his next comment at his oldest friend. “Hey, pard, how come you ain’t payin’ us for this?”

“You gotta work before you get paid,” Larabee countered dryly. “And that means do more than hold wood and flirt with Grace…”

“That’d better be all you’re doing,” Vin threatened with a chuckle.

“Relax Pard, I ain’t treadin’ on your territory…” The ladies man grinned. “But I am admiring it…”

She laughed and lightly pinched Buck’s side before moving to stand next to Vin. “I’ll have you know, Larabee, that putting those fence rails in was not the easiest of work. Someone with one leg shorter than the other must have set those posts for us. There’s nothing level about it.” She looked back at JD, “But then again…” She giggled. “We’re here for our next assignment.”

Stopping his work, Vin reclined against a post and pulled her closer.
“I can think of a few things…” he said softly into her ear as Chris debated what to send her and Buck to work on next.

She wiggled slightly against him. “Be good,” she whispered, though it was always the last thing she wanted. “Our leader won’t take no horsing around on the job.”

“Damn…” the tracker responded, his hands gripping her hips gently.
“Man needs to take a break now and then…”

She laughed. “We’ve been here an hour, Vin!!!” She leaned in and kissed his cheek. “The sooner we get finished, the sooner we can head back to the hotel. I’ll make it up to you.”

“You’d better…”

“She will, now quit groping and help me with this fence while they get started on the pens.” Chris mock-growled, turning back to his work.

She gave Vin a quick kiss and moved to give Chris a hug. “Yes, sir,” she teased before offering her arm to Buck. “C’mon, partner. We have to get busy. Got a lot of work ahead of us.” Tossing back to Chris, she said, “And we’ll discuss that pay raise later.”

Larabee blinked at the reaction then looked to Vin. “That was… interesting.”

The Texan chuckled. “Just when y’figure you’ve got Grace figured, she throws another curve into things. It’s gonna be interestin’ having her around…”

“To say least,” his friend commented with a wry smile. “Least it ain’t gonna be boring…”

“Like it ever is…”

The two men chuckled as they returned to their work, comfortable with silence instead of words, relaxing in the company of their friends. good way to spend a day’s work. Especially with no bullets flying and no lunatics trying to kill them. Just friends and laughter. And they were right… it was never boring in Four Corners. Never.

Finis

Tags: buck wilmington, chris larabee, ezra standish, grace hammond, het, jd dunne, josiah sanchez, nathan jackson, rating: nc-17, romance, vin tanner, vin/grace

This entry was posted on Friday, June 12th, 2009 at 12:15 am and is filed under highlander: the series, magnificent seven. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.