Silent Memories
by Violette
Part 10
The day passed quietly, with both Ezra and JD working on their laptops, searching through past case files to find the person who was so determined to kill the undercover agent. JD had taken a break early in the afternoon and, following Ezra's directions, had taken Nathan's vehicle to the nearby town to pick up some food. When he returned, he was unsurprised to find Ezra still hard at work – he did have the most at stake, after all. He put the food away in the kitchen, then returned to his computer.
It was nearing six o'clock when JD stood and stretched. I'd better get started on dinner. He turned to head for the kitchen, but stopped when he received no reaction or response from Ezra. He looked over at his friend, a worried frown creasing his brow when he saw the distressed look on the other man's face. Quickly, he moved to stand next to him, touching his shoulder to garner his attention.
Ezra turned to face him and JD grew even more concerned at the pallor of his face and the haunted look in his eyes.
What's wrong? he said carefully, wanting to make sure that Ezra understood him.
Closing his eyes, Ezra shook his head, then turned back to the younger man beside him, stating in a near-whisper. I've discovered the identity of my nemesis.
Taking a deep breath, Ezra began, I received an email from a former colleague at the FBI. He paused again, gathering his scattered thoughts. A man I arrested four years ago was released from prison.
And they're just now telling you?
Ezra said. He was released two months ago.
Two months! JD exclaimed. Aren't they supposed to let you know within a day of his release?
Ezra gave him a mirthless smile. Only if your name is on the Please Notify' form. Apparently, someone neglected to include mine, even though I'm certain I filled out the proper paperwork. Twice. My colleague assures me it was a clerical error. He rolled his eyes in disgust.
Clerical error my ass! JD said, angry for this mistake that had caused his friends so much pain.
Yes, well, such things happen to me quite often, Ezra said bitterly. He suspected that his name was not recorded out of pure spite. He had taken over the case after a series of agents had failed to make any progress. It had only taken him one month to bring down one of the nastiest criminals he had ever had the displeasure of meeting. Instead of congratulating him on his success, however, his fellow agents had attacked his methods and made snide remarks about his fitting in so well with the criminal element.
JD knew there was more to that comment, but decided Ezra was stressed enough without his prying into something that was obviously unpleasant. So, who's the bad guy?
Ezra's face changed, a look of utter loathing taking up residence on his features. Byron Keller. We were after him for child pornography, but he dabbled in all manner of criminal activities – anything that would make him money.
JD looked at him blankly for a moment before his eyes widened in comprehension. I remember reading about him. A couple of the kids he, uh, exploited were from Boston.
He was a very smart man, Ezra said. We ended up only being able to get him on weapons charges, despite my testimony to what I witnessed while undercover in his organization. Ezra's eyes got a faraway look and he continued quietly. He was a sick bastard. I saw him throw two of his men into a pit with several vicious Rottweilers because he caught them partaking of the goods.' They deserved punishment for such despicable acts, but that was just... barbaric. It took them hours to die. I heard even worse stories from some of his men. He prided himself on his... creativity.
JD breathed. How come you couldn't get him on murder?
He always managed to get rid of the evidence, along with the witnesses, and... my testimony was not enough. He looked up at JD with a resigned look in his eyes. My reputation was considered questionable', and his lawyers jumped all over it.
That sucks, JD said sincerely. Are you sure he's the one after you?
I'm fairly certain, Ezra replied. He was quite vehement in his threats to my person once he discovered I was an agent. Also, the variety in the methods of attack is one of his trademarks.
What, does he get bored with just shooting people? JD asked sarcastically.
Ezra answered with a small smile. Like I said, he's a loathsome individual.
So, what do we do about him?
Ezra rubbed his hand over his face. I don't know.
JD began.
Maybe we should go back and see what the others think? JD looked hesitantly at his friend, hoping he wouldn't be offended by the suggestion.
Ezra considered the idea for a minute, then nodded his head slowly. I think that might be a wise idea. Byron Keller is not someone to take on without substantial resources. He hated to admit that he couldn't handle this alone, but Ezra knew that, handicapped as he was, it would be too difficult to keep himself and the rest of his team from harm. It would take a lot to dislodge JD from his side, now that he was here, and he was not going to allow his pride to place the younger man in Keller's sights.
I'll call the guys and tell them what's up, JD said, glad Ezra couldn't hear the relief in his voice. Do you want to head back tonight?
Ezra said, trying to decipher JD's rapid-fire speech. I think tomorrow morning would be soon enough. Our associates can consider the situation without our immediate presence. He grinned at the younger man. Besides, I'm looking forward to sampling the culinary masterpiece you're planning to create this evening.
JD returned the smile and pulled out his cell phone.
Chris sighed, dropping the telephone handset back onto the cradle as he leaned his head back against the sofa cushions. One part of him was relieved at the news JD had imparted, but the other part grew even more concerned about the danger to his team. He was glad that the threat now had a name, but the particular name didn't make him feel much better.
He remembered reading about Byron Keller in Ezra's file. The man was brutal, killing with abandon while he built his criminal organization, though it could never be proven. The details in the file were sparse, but judging by Ezra's tight expression when he had inquired about it, the case was not a pleasant one. Now, in another case of his team not receiving adequate notification, the man was out on the streets, free to continue his illegal activities. These failures in the system were something his superiors were definitely going to hear about.
With a sigh, Chris picked up the phone again. The rest of the team needed to be alerted to this new development so they could start planning how to bring the bastard down. A feral smile graced his features as he thought about going after Keller. No one threatened his team. No one.
Ezra sampled the food in front of him, a delighted smile lighting his face. Coquille St. Jacques? Mr. Dunne, I'm impressed. He paused to take another bite. This is wonderful.
JD beamed with pleasure at the compliment. I had to use frozen scallops, but it seemed to work okay.
Ezra said. Fresh scallops are somewhat difficult to come by out here.
This was one of my mom's favorites, JD said, a wistful look in his eyes. I cooked it for her whenever she'd let me.
I'm sure she appreciated it, Ezra said. Unlike your heathen of a roommate.
JD snickered. Buck thinks gourmet food means fresh pizza instead of frozen.
Perhaps we can arrange to show him what he's been missing? Ezra suggested. Mr. Larabee's ranch has a serviceable kitchen. You might try preparing something for the next gathering.
JD grinned broadly. It'd be worth the effort to see the look on his face.
I look forward to it.
They finished their meal in silence, each of them thinking about what the next day would bring. Ezra wasn't looking forward to returning, but he understood the necessity of the action. The rest of the team would certainly be happier once he was back under their watchful eye, but he was still frustrated and embarrassed by his deafness. It wasn't fair to expect the others to pick up his slack. Keller was his problem, not theirs. It was bad enough that Vin and Nathan were suffering because of the man's vendetta without the rest of them being forced to protect him, too.
As if sensing his friend's inner turmoil, JD reached across the table and squeezed Ezra's arm. Everything will be fine, Ez. Don't worry.
Giving him a wan smile, Ezra replied, My infirmity must have left me rather transparent.
JD replied dismissively. It's only human to be worried about everything that's been happening.
I've never been accused of being human before, Ezra said with a sigh. In fact, some of my former associates equated me with a robot. Ezra could still hear his fellow agents laughing as they referred to him as Robo-Fed.' He wondered if that was how his current teammates viewed him. Was he Ezra Standish, the heartless automaton – a mechanical creature without emotions? He shook his head. That was just what Maude had taught him to be, so he supposed he shouldn't be surprised when others saw him that way.
JD rolled his eyes. They're full of shit, Ez. Besides, why do you care what those assholes think?
A small smile found its way onto Ezra's lips. Good point, Mr. Dunne.
Ya got real friends now, Ez, JD said earnestly.
I'm beginning to see that, Ezra replied softly. It was a startling realization for him. He had been questioning the motives of his teammates since he joined Team Seven, wondering at their unfamiliar behavior. Now, though, he was starting to understand that they did indeed view him as a friend. It was not something he had even considered, since he had never experienced such a relationship with his co-workers. He supposed that it would also explain their tendency to hover around him when he was injured, or their selfless actions in keeping him from harm. Ezra found himself feeling strangely comforted by that, despite how unnerving it was to have others care so much about his well-being. Maybe next time he wouldn't be so quick to run away from them. With a smile, he lifted his glass of iced tea in a toast to his younger friend.
JD pulled his motorcycle to the curb in front of Ezra's townhouse, intending to check the area before allowing his friend to exit his car. The sight of Buck waving at him from the doorway, however, changed his mind, since he knew Buck would ensure the southerner's safety. Hey, Buck, he returned his roommate's greeting.
Everything okay, kid?
No problems, JD replied, shaking his head at the concerned tone in the older man's voice.
Buck turned to the approaching undercover agent. Hey, Ezra.
Mr. Wilmington. Ezra nodded at the other man. How are Mr. Jackson and Mr. Tanner faring?
They're doing okay, just getting a little cranky at being cooped up.
I can sympathize with that sentiment, Ezra said dryly.
Buck laughed, clapping him gently on the shoulder. Come on, let's get you inside. You're too much of a target out here.
I don't need a babysitter, Ezra protested, though he was secretly pleased at Buck's concern.
Buck ignored his complaint and started ushering him toward the door.
I'll meet you guys at the office, JD called after them. I want to run by the apartment to change first.
See ya later, Buck said.
Mr. Dunne, Ezra began.
Thank you.
JD grinned and revved his engine before pulling out into traffic.
Meeting his boss's eyes briefly, Ezra followed Buck into the conference room, taking his customary seat near the opposite end of the table. Curiously, he eyed the laptop sitting on the table near his seat. Quirking an eyebrow, he turned to his teammates for an explanation.
Nathan and Vin are bored silly and didn't want to be left out, Chris explained. We had one of the techs set this up so we could conference them in with text as well as voice. He shrugged casually. Didn't want you to miss anything.
Ezra looked at the chat' application on the screen, momentarily at a loss for words.
Chris took pity on his flummoxed agent and turned his attention to Buck. Where's JD?
He went home to change, Buck answered. He should be here shortly.
Josiah entered the room, stopping next to Ezra. How are you doing, Ezra?
I'm quite well, Mr. Sanchez, Ezra replied.
Josiah settled into his own seat, dropping a stack of folders onto the table.
Hey, Ez, flashed on the terminal in front of him.
Mr. Tanner?
No, this is Nathan, came the reply. Vin's in the next bed over. I was elected as typist.
Ezra nodded, knowing that Vin's typing skills were not the best. How are you feeling?
Not too bad, Nathan replied. Vin keeps complaining. Says I snore.
Ezra laughed, feeling some of his earlier tension drain away.
Any progress on your hearing? Josiah asked, once Ezra's attention was focused on him.
Ezra gave him a sad smile. None yet, I'm afraid.
It may take some time, came Nathan's comment.
I suppose so, Ezra said with a shrug.
Vin says you should be glad you can't hear Chris's bitching and moaning.
Ezra laughed again, grateful for his friends' efforts in making him feel at ease, despite the fact that they probably wanted to chastise him for his recent disappearance.
Chris began. Here's what we know: Keller was released from prison a little over two months ago – something we should have been notified about. His eyes took on a dangerous gleam. I've already discussed' the matter with the FBI.
Discuss, hell, Buck interjected. You ripped that guy a new one.
Chris shrugged. He deserved it. No one disagreed. Keller has tried three times to kill Ezra, so we know he's not likely to give up yet. He pulled out a file folder. According to the file we got from the FBI, he made threats against Ez constantly during his trial and seems to be fixated on him now.
Ezra grimaced, remembering the vile comments Keller had spewed at him once he realized he had been duped by a federal agent. Even after all this time, the angry words still made his skin crawl.
I know you don't want to hear this, Ez, but you need protection, Chris said, his expression serious. Keller is a brutal son of a bitch, and you can't take him on by yourself.
Yeah, pard, Buck added. We're a team; we back each other up.
Ezra raised his hands in defeat, giving them a wry smile. I must confess that I agree with you in this instance. I've seen first-hand the kind of brutality Keller is capable of unleashing on those who have crossed him, and I have no desire to face that alone.
Chris gave a sharp nod. Good, cause you ain't going to. Starting today, I want one of us with you all the time. The rest of us are going to track down any known associates he may have in the area.
Ez, you shouldn't stay at your place, Nathan said. He's already gone after you there twice.
Ezra looked up to find the others nodding in agreement, and he found he couldn't argue with their logic.
Why don't you take him to your place, Chris? Josiah suggested. Of all of our places, it's the easiest to defend, and we won't have to be concerned with endangering any neighbors or passers-by.
Nodding thoughtfully, Chris turned to Ezra. Is that all right with you, Ez?
With a smile, Ezra nodded his agreement, pleased that he was being allowed some say in where he went. It seems to be the best solution. He raised a finger. However, I must insist upon doing my part to find Keller. I refuse to simply sit by while he continues his attempts.
No problem, Ez. Chris readily agreed, knowing that his obstinate agent would do it with or without his approval.
I think we should check with our informants, Buck recommended. The grapevine on the street is pretty good sometimes, especially when someone high-profile like Keller comes to town.
Get on it, Chris said. And find out what's keeping JD.
Buck tossed off a cocky salute as he strode out the door.
What can we do? Nathan queried.
You can rest, like you're supposed to, brothers, Josiah replied sternly.
Vin says, !#$@#$%$.
Chris snorted. Too bad Vin's mouth ain't broken.
My sympathies, Mr. Tanner, Ezra said with a barely suppressed chuckle. You, too, Mr. Jackson.
Just get this bastard.
We shall do our best, Ezra said, his voice edged with determination.
Dropping into his chair, Ezra set down his coffee, then reached over and turned on his computer, rummaging through some file folders while it started up. He had been scouring through some old files for the past few hours, looking for information about several of Keller's cohorts. It annoyed him that he couldn't avail himself of some of his regular sources, since the telephone was simply a useless hunk of plastic in his current condition. Instead, he had to dig through his old notes and reports for any useful scraps of information.
Rotating his neck to work out the kinks, Ezra set the papers down and logged on to the agency's network, hoping to track down the current whereabouts of some of the people with whom Keller had associated during his criminal career. He immediately checked his email, hoping for more information from his former FBI co-workers. Instead, he found a message that was apparently from Keller. His face paled and his breath caught in his chest as he scanned the contents.
Sucking in a quiet breath, he furtively glanced around the office, checking on the whereabouts of his teammates. Chris was still in his office, while both Josiah and Buck had hit the streets to question their informants. It only took him a moment to decide what to do. Quickly, Ezra pushed away from his desk and grabbed his coat from the back of the chair. With one last look toward his boss's office, Ezra slipped quietly from the room, hurrying down the hallway.
The doors closed and Ezra slumped against the wall of the elevator, trying to push away the image that had burned itself into his brain. Keller had upped the ante in his deadly game. The email he had sent only contained a brief message, but it was the photograph accompanying it that had galvanized Ezra into action. He didn't think he would ever forget the picture of JD, tied to a chair, with blood dripping down his face. Even now, his fists clenched reflexively, promising retribution for his friends' suffering. It was time to end the game.
The office was quiet, save for the clicking of his computer keyboard as he started off yet another database search. Chris leaned back in his chair, listening, as was his habit, for the sounds of his men. But all he heard was silence. Frowning, he leaned forward, listening intently for any hint of noise. No matter what they were doing, working or horsing around, his men rarely did it quietly. Then he remembered that Buck and Josiah had left almost immediately following their meeting, leaving only Ezra in the outer office. Normally, the undercover agent's voice could be heard as he called the people in his large network of informants, but he wasn't exactly able to use a telephone at the moment. Still, an uneasy feeling rippled through Chris and he knew it wouldn't go away until he was sure everything was as it should be.
Chris pulled open his office door and poked his head into the outer office, frowning when he found it empty. he called out, despite knowing that it was pointless. After checking the break room and the rest room and finding them empty, Chris made his way to Ezra's desk to look for a note. Ezra had seemed agreeable to remaining in the company of one of his teammates, and Chris didn't think he would have left without alerting someone or leaving a note at the very least. At the desk, though, he found nothing.
Frustrated, Chris dropped into Ezra's chair, running a hand through his hair as he reached for the telephone. His hand bumped against the computer mouse, and he blinked in surprise as the poker game screen saver gave way to the email program used on their computers. The shock he felt at seeing JD's bloodied visage was quickly replaced by anger at Keller and worry for his missing agents. Committing the scant details of the message to his memory, Chris bolted for his office, grabbing his coat and speed-dialing his cell phone as he rushed down the hallway.
The warehouse loomed in front of him, dark and forbidding in the waning light of day. Ezra glared at the broken windows and dingy concrete, wondering if there was some unwritten rule in the criminal world that stated that illegal activities had to be conducted in decrepit old warehouse buildings. Withdrawing his gun from his shoulder holster, he made his way toward the door.
The building was cavernous and filled with stacks of boxes, crates, and shipping containers. Ezra cursed his lack of hearing once again, feeling exposed and vulnerable as he crept along the row of boxes. A flicker of light ahead of him caught his attention and he slowed his pace, edging along the boxes until he could peer around the corner. The sight that met his gaze made his blood boil.
JD was tied to a chair in the center of the room, his head lolling against his chest. Keller was nowhere to be seen. Taking a deep breath, Ezra stepped into the open, keenly aware of the potential danger to both himself and JD.
Mr. Dunne, Ezra called in what he hoped was a whisper.
JD's head jerked up, his eyes widening in surprise when he spotted Ezra. Ez, get out of here! It's a trap!
I'm not leaving without you, JD, Ezra said firmly as he stepped closer to the younger man.
JD shook his head, looking up in fear.
Ezra sensed that something had changed and whirled around to see Keller standing to his left, a smile on his face and a gun in his hand. Hello, Ezra. Been a long time, hasn't it?
Not long enough, Ezra spat.
Put the gun down and move away from him. Keller waved his gun threateningly.
Ezra hesitated for a moment, then spotted the two large men approaching from the other side of the room. He backed away slowly, setting his gun on the ground without taking his eyes off of the man. You won't get away with this, Keller.
Keller chuckled, moving to stand beside JD while his men positioned themselves behind Ezra. He grabbed JD by the hair, jerking his head back. I've already gotten away with it, Agent Standish.
Leave him alone! Ezra demanded. I'm the one you want. Let him go.
But it's much more entertaining this way, Keller said with a crazed smile. He reached behind the chair and lifted a plastic gasoline can. You remember how much I like to have fun, don't you Ezra?
Ezra watched in horror as Keller tipped the can, dousing JD with the flammable liquid. Setting the half-empty can down, he reached into his jacket and removed a blowtorch, lighting it and waving it in front of him, much to JD and Ezra's horror.
What's the matter? Keller taunted. Not in the mood for a barbecue?
You're insane, Ezra said, taking a step forward, only to be restrained by the two huge men on either side of him.
Keller said, with a shrug. But I prefer to think that my mental abilities are simply enhanced above the norm. I've certainly managed to keep ahead of the law.
I put you in prison, if you remember, Ezra stated calmly. You're not as intelligent as you have deluded yourself into believing.
Fury flickered in Keller's eyes for a moment, then he relaxed and shook his head. Nobody's perfect; not even me. He waved the blowtorch in JD's direction. But I do learn from my mistakes. He laughed and began pacing, turning away so Ezra could no longer decipher what he was saying.
Ezra scanned the area frantically, looking for some way out of this dilemma, while Keller continued to pace and rant. JD caught his eye and carefully said, almost loose. Keller and his goons paid no attention, so Ezra assumed JD had mouthed the words silently. Nodding almost imperceptibly, Ezra turned his attention back to Keller, waiting for the opportunity to act.
JD's felt the ropes fall away and immediately focused his gaze on Ezra, who gave him a slight wink in response. It was time. In one quick movement, JD leaped from the chair and tackled Keller, knocking the blowtorch out of his hands. Taking advantage of the distraction, Ezra elbowed one of the goons in the stomach and kicked the other in the groin. The fight was on.
Keller had at least six inches and forty pounds on him, but JD was faster and more agile, avoiding most of the blows aimed at him by the larger man. Using one of the moves Vin had taught him, JD hooked a leg around his opponent's ankle, knocking him down. Keller grabbed his arm as he fell, taking both of them to the ground.
Keller used his superior size to pin JD to the ground while he rained blows upon him, oblivious to the gasoline that was pooling around them, spilling from the can they had knocked over during their fight. They grappled on the floor, rolling around in the pungent liquid, until Keller landed a particularly heavy blow to JD's face, bouncing the young agent's head off of the concrete floor and knocking him unconscious. Chuckling triumphantly, Keller turned his attention to the battle occurring behind him. Picking up the blowtorch he had dropped during the fight, he headed toward Ezra, a manic grin on his face.
Ezra had his hands full fighting the two muscle-bound men who worked for Keller. He was starting to tire, and his hands and face, still sore from the burns he sustained during Keller's first attempt on his life, were beginning to hurt from the repeated blows he was both giving and receiving. The men were much bigger than him and he knew he wasn't going to last much longer if he had to continue fighting both of them.
Ezra waited for an opportune moment, then launched his fist at one of his opponents, putting everything he had behind the punch. The man's head snapped to the right, spraying blood from his split lips as he toppled to the ground. Unfortunately, the other goon took advantage of the fact that Ezra's focus was directed away from him, grabbing him in a choke hold and rendering him helpless as Keller approached.
Seeing JD's motionless form on the floor, Ezra felt his hopes diminishing and his anger growing. He berated himself for not thinking things through before he left the office. At the very least, he should have left a note for his teammates instead of just giving in to his anger and heading off on his own. Ezra lifted his gaze to Keller, flinching when the smiling man again lit the blowtorch he was carrying.
It seems I am as smart as I thought, Keller said smugly, lifting the deadly instrument to within inches of Ezra's face. You lose, Agent Standish.
Go to hell, Keller, Ezra spat, frustrated at his failure.
After you, Keller said, grinning broadly. Now, where shall I start? He moved the blowtorch slowly down Ezra's chest. Here? Or perhaps here? He moved the blowtorch toward Ezra's groin. Toasted nuts – now that would be painful. He laughed aloud at his own cleverness.
Ezra simply glared at him, refusing to give him the satisfaction of showing any fear. A slight movement in the shadows behind Keller gave Ezra a sudden flicker of hope. Was it possible that Chris and the others had discovered his location and were here to back him up? He silently chided himself again on his lack of judgment in taking on Keller alone and knew he would hear it from his associates later – provided he lived through this. Shaking his head slightly, he focused on Keller once again. It wouldn't be wise to alert the man to the possible presence of his teammates.
No, I think I'll start with that pretty face, Keller said. Though it's not looking quite so pretty anymore after my little party at the warehouse.
The blowtorch was uncomfortably close to Ezra's chin and he turned his head away to avoid the blue flames as Keller laughed and pushed the torch closer. A sudden flurry of activity erupted, heralding the noisy arrival of Chris, Buck, and Josiah burst into the room. Buck immediately headed for JD, tossing him over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes and carrying him outside the building. Ezra took advantage of the commotion and kicked out with his right foot, hitting Keller solidly in the chest. The blowtorch fell from Keller's grasp, lighting Ezra's pant leg on fire as it dropped to the ground at his feet.
The goon holding Ezra decided that retreat was a good option and tossed Ezra aside as he bolted for the door, where he was stopped by the solid form of a very angry Buck. Ezra's immediate concern was in putting out the fire on his clothing, and it was a minute before he realized something was amiss. He hadn't heard Chris or Josiah's shouts, and was shocked when he looked up to see them frantically trying to beat out the flames that were rapidly engulfing Keller. Mesmerized, he stared at the flames, oblivious to everything else around him.
Buck handcuffed the goon who had attempted to escape, while Chris and Josiah put out the flames with a fire extinguisher they had found hanging on the wall. But it was too late for Keller.
I called for an ambulance, Buck said as he raced back inside, then came to an abrupt halt. Oh shit.
Chris stared at the grim tableau and agreed with Buck's assessment. Better call the M.E.'s office. There's nothing the paramedics can do for him now.
Buck nodded sharply, swallowing hard as he turned away from the gruesome sight. Aw hell.
Chris and Josiah turned around, groaning in unison when they saw Ezra lying unconscious on the floor. Without prompting, Josiah and Buck lifted him gently and carried him outside.
Be better if he doesn't see that, Buck said.
Too late, Chris whispered, remembering the horror-stricken look on his undercover agent's face as he watched Keller go up in flames.
Flames, bright and scorching, danced in the darkness, crackling and popping as they created eerie shadows in their wake. They spread quickly, almost mocking him with their brilliance as they stalked ever closer. Ezra screamed, but no sound came from his throat. He turned to run, but his feet seemed frozen to the ground. The fire reached him, flames twisting and curling around him as they climbed up his body. Ezra screamed again, helpless against the onslaught, until the blackness took him once again.
He awake yet? Chris asked, walking into Ezra's room with Buck.
Not yet, Vin replied from the chair beside Ezra's bed, where he had been sitting all night. Thought he was gonna wake up a few minutes ago. He was mumblin' and movin' around a bit. He shrugged.
The doctor said there's no reason why he shouldn't wake up, Buck said, concern etched on his features.
Vin looked at his sleeping friend and sighed. Maybe he ain't ready yet.
Chris nodded in agreement. After all he's been through lately, I wouldn't blame him for wanting to stay asleep for awhile.
Hell, Ez never gets up if he don't have to, Buck said with a snort.
The other two men chuckled as they settled in to wait.
Fire. Yellow and orange flames; twisting, laughing, screaming, as they devoured everything in their path. The smoke was thick, choking him and searing his lungs. Darkness swirled around the edges, waiting for an opportunity to take him. Loud, bloodcurdling screams. Screams that wouldn't stop, growing louder and louder, until they flooded his senses, drowning out everything else.
Ezra sat up with a gasp, breathing hard as the last vestiges of the nightmare left him. Rubbing a shaking hand over his face, he became aware of the worried expressions on Josiah and Chris's faces as they leaned over his hospital bed.
Ezra? Are you all right? Chris said. Do you want me to call the doctor?
I'm fine, Mr. Larabee, Ezra said, giving him a weak smile.
You don't look fine.
Ezra shook his head, wincing slightly at the increase in pain that action brought about. Time for a change of subject. How is Mr. Dunne?
He's all right, Chris assured him. Just a concussion and a few bruises.
That is good to hear, Ezra said, relaxing back into his pillows and closing his eyes.
Josiah turned to Chris. I think we should get the doctor, Chris. He looks awfully pale.
I said I'm fine, Mr. Sanchez, Ezra said with a sigh.
Josiah whirled around and both he and Chris gaped at him.
Josiah said softly.
Ezra opened his eyes and looked at them, puzzled at their behavior.
You heard me? Josiah asked.
Of course I... Ezra paused, then looked at them wonderingly, a grin forming on his lips. I heard you. His nightmares had been so realistic, so... alive, that he hadn't realized that anything had changed. The relief he felt must have been obvious, based on the knowing looks on his friends' faces. And for once, he didn't care what they saw.
Thank the lord, Josiah said, a broad smile lighting up his face.
Chris said with a wry smile. Can't do things the easy way, can you, Ez?
What would be the fun in that? Ezra said, arching an eyebrow, his eyes twinkling happily.
Do you remember now what made you go deaf in the first place? Josiah asked curiously.
Ezra thought for a moment, then grimaced. I'm afraid I do. He swallowed reflexively as the images paraded through his memory. I... I witnessed Pollard's rather gruesome demise. He gave them a wan smile. It is not a sight I would recommend.
Chris said. Seeing something like that once was bad enough for me.
Josiah said. Buck lost his lunch in the warehouse after seeing Keller.
Ezra flinched at the mention of Keller's name, the image of the man burning to death far too fresh in his memory. Chris was right. Seeing something like that even once was more than enough. It seems the repeat performance was enough to jar my memory.
You gonna be okay? Chris asked, concerned at Ezra's pallor.
Ezra waved him away. Yes, yes. I simply need to focus my thoughts on more pleasant things... like getting out of this infernal place.
Doc wants to keep you for another night for observation, Chris said in a voice that brooked no argument.
Another night? Ezra looked at them in puzzlement.
You've been here a day and a half, brother, Josiah said with a grin.
Ezra said, surprised by the revelation.
Guess you needed to catch up on your beauty sleep, Chris said with a grin.
I would prefer to sleep at home, Ezra said with a frown.
You'll do as the doctor orders.
Chris's voice was casual, but Ezra detected the underlying warning. He rolled his eyes, but decided to acquiesce. He had caused his associates more than enough grief lately, and this was the least he could do to make it up to them.
Buck pushed through the door in his usual boisterous fashion. You're awake!
You have an amazing facility for stating the obvious, Ezra said dryly.
You must be feelin' better if you're already insulting me, Buck huffed cheerfully. He turned to Chris. JD's already whining about gettin' out of here.
So's Ez, Chris said with a grin.
Buck put a hand up to hide his mouth and said, But whining is normal for him.
A gentleman doesn't whine', Mr. Wilmington, Ezra replied, feigning indignation.
Buck looked at him incredulously. How did you...?
He can hear now, Buck, Chris explained with a smirk.
Well, hot damn! That is good news.
The nurse bustled into the room. Visiting hours are nearly over, gentlemen.
Sure thing, darlin', Buck said, flashing his most charming grin at her. Blushing, she made quick work of checking Ezra's temperature and blood pressure before hurrying out of the room.
Chris rolled his eyes at the effect his old friend had on women. Don't you have a date tonight?
Buck said smugly. With Tracey. You know, that waitress at The Blue Rose. The one with the big...
Never mind. I don't want to hear it. Chris raised his hands in defeat. Buck would never change, and Chris found he was glad of that.
I agree, Mr. Larabee, Ezra said. I'm almost beginning to wish I were still deaf.
You're just jealous, Buck said, puffing out his chest. You can only dream of having my animal magnetism.
Chris, Josiah, and Ezra looked at each other for one silent moment, then burst out laughing.
Buck glared at them, then heaved a much put-upon sigh, putting a hand over his heart. I'm wounded.
No, but you will be if you're late for your date, Josiah said.
We better all get out of here before we get kicked out, Chris added.
We'll see you tomorrow, Ez, Buck said waving as he headed out the door.
Good night, Ezra. Josiah added his farewell as he followed Buck.
You know, we're gonna have to have a little chat about you running off on your own, Chris said after the other two men had left. You could have gotten yourself killed.
I did what I thought was best, Ezra said quietly. I didn't want anyone else to suffer in my stead.
We're a team, Ez, Chris said patiently. We're supposed to take things on together. It doesn't matter if the target is just one of us. Families take care of one another. You got it?
I'm starting to, Ezra said sheepishly. It will take some getting used to, I'm afraid.
Chris smiled. Don't worry. You've got six brothers here to make sure you won't forget.
Now that's a terrifying thought, Ezra said with a grin that turned into a yawn.
Chris patted his shoulder. Get some rest. We'll talk some more later. He stood to leave. You ain't expendable, Ez. Remember that. With that, he was gone.
Ezra stared at the door long after Chris had left, going over the words in his head. No one had ever told him he was valued, not even his mother. It was a strange, warm feeling – one, he decided, to which he could definitely grow accustomed. It would be an adjustment, learning to depend on others, but Ezra was certain he could meet that challenge. The rewards, after all, were well worth it. With a smile on his face, Ezra fell into a deep – and thankfully dreamless – sleep.
Finis