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Author: Chaps1870
Title: The Broken Road
Warnings: Slash
Pairings: Jarrod/Adam
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Two old friends discover they share more than just a simple friendship
Disclaimer: This story is for entertainment only and not intended to infringe on the holders of rights of The Big Valley or Bonanza.
Chapter 5
They headed towards home and were sidetracked by Adam insisting on doing a little work to appease Jarrod’s brothers. On their way through the south meadow, Adam spied the wagon loaded with fence posts and after some cajoling, talked Jarrod into working several hours replacing rotted posts.
Jarrod was tired, but content to work beside Adam. It was different than working with his brothers, who constantly made jabs about not working for a living. He and Adam worked in companionable silence, making quick work of the repairs. Finishing up, they leaned against the wagon, quenching their thirst and admiring their work.
Wiping the sweat from his brow, Adam handed the canteen to Jarrod, “Well the fence posts are in, but they’re going to have to replace that wire.”
Standing beside Jarrod, Adam’s shirt flapped open exposing his hot skin to the cool breeze. Leaning his head back, he opened his shirt and sighed at the coolness. Jarrod’s own shirt hung open, but he forgot how hot it was as he watched Adam. Turning to face Adam, Jarrod reached out his hand and caressed the dark hair on his chest. Adam looked down at his hand then grabbing it in his own hand, pulled Jarrod until he was leaning into his chest. Snaking his arm around Jarrod, he pulled him closer and began kissing him. The need for air finally made him stop and he looked at Jarrod, “I don’t recall fencing ever being this much fun.”
Jarrod ground himself into Adam, muttering, “Me either. The rewards are certainly worth the work.” Their eyes met and Jarrod leaned in, kissing the corners of Adam’s mouth as he asked, “Let me touch you.” Already his hand slipped between them and into the waistband of Adam’s pants. Adam inhaled sharply, giving Jarrod just the room he needed to get to his stiffening shaft. Shifting to the left, Jarrod reached deeper and grasping Adam’s manhood in his hand, began stroking him. Feeling Jarrod’s arousal pressed against his hip, Adam reached a hand into Jarrod’s pants and matched him stroke for stroke. As their passion grew, their mouths joined and they fought a battle of tongues, enjoying the taste of one another. They fed off each other’s passion, their strokes fast and frantic as they neared release, until they finally came together in a jarring, pulsing climax. Adam let go a harsh groan of satisfaction as he spewed his seed in Jarrod’s hand. Jarrod thrust into Adam’s hand, let go a loud sigh and filled his pants with his release. They clung to each other for support until they could catch their breaths. Finally moving apart, they cleaned themselves up, but stopped for an occasional kiss or two. Just as they got ready to leave they noticed Nick coming across the pasture from the rise behind them.
His horse barely even stopped when Nick vaulted from his saddle and stood toe to toe with Adam, his eyes filled with rage. “I want you off this ranch!”
Shock and surprise at Nick’s behavior spurred Jarrod into action. Storming towards Nick, Jarrod grabbed him and jerked him away from Adam, “What the devil has gotten into you?”
Nick yanked himself from Jarrod’s grasp and angrily pushed him away. Jarrod lay on the ground where he’d fallen, looking up at Nick in disbelief as he stalked over and pointed a finger at him. His face was red with a fury Jarrod was all too familiar with and he flinched when Nick growled at him, “I want you gone too!!” Nick wagged his finger between Jarrod and Adam, “Both of you. Get the hell out of my sight.”
Leaping to his feet, Jarrod’s normal control over his temper was fading, “Damn it Nick! What are you talking about?!”
Planting his hands on his hips, Nick glared at Jarrod, “I saw you. Saw you....oh hell I don’t even know what to call what I saw!”
Jarrod went ghost white at Nick’s words and cast a quick sideways glance at Adam who didn’t look any better. Nick saw the exchange and it only increased his rage. He shouted at his older brother, “I don’t ever want to lay eyes on you again Jarrod. As far as I’m concerned you are no longer any brother of mine, cause no brother of mine would do what I saw you doin’.”
Recovering from the shock of Nick’s accusation, Jarrod tried to explain, “Nick, listen to me. I can ex...” Nick didn’t want an explanation and he landed a blinding punch in Jarrod’s face. “Get the hell away from me!” Stumbling back, Jarrod landed in the fence off balance and hitting the wire, felt it give from the fence post. He tried to right himself but there was too much slack in the wire holding him up and balancing on his heels, he could get no leverage.
Seeing Jarrod get hit sparked fire in Adam and he launched himself headfirst into Nick’s stomach, sending them both to the ground. In a battle of strength, the two men traded blows as they rolled on the ground, both of them oblivious to Jarrod’s struggle to stand. Just as Jarrod started to get his feet under him, his eyes widened in fear when he felt the wire supporting him snap, sending him to the ground. He tried to stand but the released wire whipped back, twisting around him with every move he made. The more he struggled, the more entangled he became and it wrapped around his legs tightly. His balance compromised he flopped to the ground and the wire continued to ensnare him until the tension played out. In Jarrod’s mind the fight with the wire seemed to go on forever. In actuality it had only taken a matter of seconds to firmly encase him in it’s barbed teeth.
It wasn’t Jarrod’s scream that filled the air but Adam’s, “JARROD!!!” Jarrod could barely see from his position, but Nick was laying flat on the ground and Adam was scrambling to get to him.
Reaching Jarrod’s side, Adam tried to pull the wire from Jarrod’s trembling body, oblivious to his own pain as the sharp barbs ripped at the soft flesh of his palms. Jarrod lay unable to even move, his eyes clouded over as he shook with agony. His whole body was dappled with blood wherever a barb had torn or punctured the skin. In several places his clothes were torn where the wire had sliced into him as it had wrapped around him. Jarrod’s ragged voice pleaded with Adam, “Get...it...off!”
Adam tried to calm himself and get a better look at the situation. He bent closer to Jarrod and spoke in a shaky voice, “Hold on. I’m gonna see if there are some wire cutters in the wagon.” Rushing to the wagon, Adam leaned over the back and opened the toolbox under the seat hoping whoever loaded the wagon had thought to load them. As his hands fumbled for the wire cutters, he realized they were bleeding and was startled by the fact that he’d been unaware he’d even been hurt. He forgot about them again when his hand found the cutters. Racing back to Jarrod, he slid to a stop on his knees and wasted no time cutting at the wire. His blood covered hands soon made the tool slippery and impossible to grip. Frustrated, he stopped only long enough to rip the sleeve off his shirt and tearing it in two, wrapped a piece around each hand before cutting again.
Jarrod’s breathing was harsh and a moan or whimper would escape with each cut of the wire. Tears, sweat and blood mingled on his face and his eyes were clenched tight against the pain. His body trembled in shock and Adam raced to free him, fighting back his own tears. Freeing Jarrod of the last strand of wire, Adam’s voice reflected his concern as reached out to help him, “Can you help me get you out of this mess?”
Every movement was painful as the wire, still imbedded in places, clung to him. Helping him sit up, Adam leaned Jarrod into his shoulder as he picked wire off and flung it away. Jarrod held his arms in front of him, bent at the elbow and their uncontrollable shaking was unnerving. He flinched every time Adam pulled a piece of wire away and only when the last piece was gone did Jarrod grab Adam’s shirt in a tight fist. Adam could feel him trembling with pain and the amount of blood that now covered his clothes had Adam worried, but there was little he could do. There were simply too many cuts and punctures to deal with and the quicker he got Jarrod to the doctor the better. With the utmost care, Adam helped him lie down and had to physically pry Jarrod’s hand from his shirt. “It’s alright now. I’m just gonna get the horse.”
Jarrod looked at him, his blue eyes wide with pain. He didn’t even try to talk, just gave Adam a weak nod. Adam touched Jarrod’s cheek briefly, “Hold on.” Hurrying toward the horses, he chose his own, thinking it looked to be the stronger of the two animals and could carry both of them. Grabbing the reins, he led the horse to Jarrod and hoped the animal wouldn’t bolt at the smell of blood. The horse snorted, but held his place and Adam sighed his relief as he knelt down beside Jarrod. “You think you can stand?”
Again, the only response Adam got was a nod, but he took it as a good sign. At least Jarrod was thinking clear enough to understand that this would be easier with his cooperation. Adam gingerly pulled Jarrod’s arm over his shoulder and helped him to his feet. Jarrod’s breathing was loud and labored as he stood, and he almost buckled from dizziness and pain. Waiting until Jarrod found his feet, Adam maneuvered him to the horse. Adam moved Jarrod’s hands to the saddlehorn, “Hold on, don’t fall on me now.” Jarrod rested his forehead on the saddle as Adam reached down and lifted his foot into the stirrup. The pain was overwhelming and Jarrod started to lose what precious balance he had when he felt Adam standing behind him, making sure he didn’t fall.
Adam spoke to him softly, “You need a minute?”
Jarrod nodded slowly, and whispered, “Hurts.”
Kissing his cheek very carefully, Adam closed his eyes sympathetically, “I know. Let me know when.”
Both men knew that this was going to hurt no matter how careful they were and it only took a few seconds for Jarrod to give his consent to get it over with. Bending over, Adam grabbed Jarrod’s ankle and spoke, “On three. One...two...three.” When Adam said three, he lifted Jarrod’s ankle up at the same time Jarrod sank his weight into the stirrup and tried to pull himself up. They managed to get him in the saddle, but Jarrod slumped heavily over the saddlehorn as he cried out at the agony the effort had caused him. His breathing was fast and shallow and one hand clenched and unclenched against the pain as tears rolled down his cheeks. Jarrod’s other hand hung limply at his wrist and Adam worried about the damage the wire might have caused.
Adam took only a moment to make sure Jarrod wouldn’t slip off before mounting behind him. He reached forward to pull Jarrod back into his chest when a movement to his right caught his eye. Nick was suddenly standing beside them with his hands on the reins. Adam glared down at the dark haired rancher, “Let go!”
Nick glowered back, “Get down! I don’t want you any where near him!” When Adam tried to yank on the reins to get away, Nick reached out to pull him off the horse but Adam was prepared. As soon as Nick stepped in closer, Adam lifted his foot and planting it in the middle of Nick’s chest, kicked out as hard as he could. Nick went sailing to the ground and his own injuries were jarred enough to take the wind out of him. Adam stared down at him with fire in his eyes, “You’re wasting precious time Barkley! Go get the doctor while I take him home.”
His anger wasn’t pacified and Nick tried one more time to unseat Adam. This time he was stopped dead in his tracks by Adam’s lightening reflexes. Nick’s eyes widened as he stared down the barrel of Adam’s forty-five. Reluctantly Nick stepped back and let Adam go, but yelled at his retreating back, “Fine! But this ain’t over Cartwright!” Grabbing his hat off the ground, Nick slapped his thigh with it and stomped to his horse. Mounting up, he headed for the doctor.
Chapter 6
Everything inside of Adam told him he needed to hurry, but Jarrod was barely holding on as it was. Each moment seemed to pass like an hour as Adam watched Jarrod’s clothes become more bloodstained. A lot of the smaller wounds had stopped bleeding but he still had several cuts that kept oozing blood and Adam berated himself for not stopping long enough to check how serious Jarrod was wounded. At the time it seemed imperative to get him help rather than waste time. Jarrod slumped heavily into Adam, relying on him to hold him in the saddle. The only sound he made was an occasional groan of pain when the horse made an errant step. Each time he was jarred, Jarrod’s fingers dug deeper into the flesh of Adam’s forearm where he held on with a death grip.
Adam was terrified for Jarrod, “We’re almost there. Another mile.” Jarrod barely nodded and Adam wanted to hold him tighter but Jarrod’s injuries held him back, not wanting to cause him more pain. They rode on in silence but for an occasional muttering of reassurance from Adam. As they made the yard, Ciego took one look at Jarrod and hurried after the two as Adam headed straight for the front steps of the white mansion. Ciego took the reins and tied off the horse, while Adam spoke softly to Jarrod.
“You’re home now, Jarrod. We’ll get you some help. Just hold on for me.” Jarrod groaned as Adam helped him lean forward over the saddlehorn, and then dismounted from behind. He felt himself slipping sideways, but was caught by the strong arms of his friend that held him until he could get his feet under him. He tried to stay upright, but the loss of blood was making him dizzy and weak and his knees buckled despite his best efforts. Adam wrapped his arm across his shoulders and Ciego stepped in to do the same and they managed to get him up the steps and through the front door. Silas walked into the foyer intent on greeting whoever had come home and was stopped short by the bloody mess Jarrod was in. He didn’t even hesitate as he looked up the stairs and hollered, “Mrs. Barkley! Mr. Jarrod is hurt!”
Turning back to the trio at the door, he motioned up the stairs, “This way. He be needin’ a doctor.”
Adam spoke his first words since entering the house, and they had a tinge of animosity in them. “Nick went to town for the doctor.” He then added as a thought to himself, I hope.
Victoria hurried from her room and stopped on the landing at the sight of Jarrod covered head to toe in torn and bloody clothes. Gathering her skirt, she hurried to her son, alarmed by his condition, “Jarrod! What happened?!”
Raising his head weakly to acknowledge his mother, Jarrod couldn’t find the strength to give her a reassuring smile. He was in far too much pain and she could see the agony in his blue depths. Adam answered her question with as little information as was necessary, “He got caught in the fence wire. Nick’s gone for the doctor.”
Victoria wanted to touch her son, but afraid of hurting him further, got over her initial shock and began issuing orders. “Let’s get him cleaned up. Silas, bring plenty of bandages and warm water.”
Silas nodded and went back down the stairs. Victoria gave directions to Adam and Ciego then hurried ahead to ready his room. Jarrod was trembling with shock and pain as the two men carried him up the stairs to the bedroom. Ciego left as soon as they had him seated and began removing his tattered clothes. Victoria and Adam worked in silence, neither comfortable with the other to really voice their concerns or thoughts and normal pleasantries didn’t seem appropriate considering the circumstances. Jarrod leaned into Adam and let his mother help him with his clothes, too weary to even be embarrassed by his nakedness.
Adam was relieved to see that once the bloody clothes were removed the damage didn’t seem near as overwhelming. He was cut in several places, some deeper than others and puncture wounds were scattered all over his body. With the blood covered clothes gone, the damage no longer seemed life threatening. Most of the wounds had stopped bleeding except for the deep cut across Jarrod’s left hand and one up high on his back. Jarrod couldn’t stop from crying out when his mother wrapped his hand to stem the flow. His pain cut through her and she quickly apologized, “I’m sorry, son. We need to stop the bleeding.” She tried to be careful as she placed another on his back and applied pressure. Breathing through gritted teeth, Jarrod gripped Adam’s shirt tightly and tensed in the arms that held him. There was so much that Adam wanted to say, but with Victoria in the room there was little he could do to comfort Jarrod other than hold him while his mother cleaned him up. It took quite some time to clean away the blood and dirt, and they were just finishing when Nick appeared with the doctor. One searing look at Adam and Nick turned sharply from the room, leaving the care of his brother to the doctor and his mother.
Nick was entering the study for a much needed drink when Heath rushed into the house out of breath, his face fearful. “Nick! I heard Jarrod was hurt!”
“He’s upstairs with the doctor,” said Nick sourly. Heath was caught off guard by Nick’s callous attitude regarding Jarrod.
“Is he gonna be alright? What happened?”
Ignoring Heath’s questions, Nick stomped into the study and headed straight for the liquor, too angry to even speak at the moment. Heath was right behind him and watched Nick pour a drink then gulp it down. Concerned for Jarrod and frustrated with Nick’s silence, Heath asked tersely, “How’s Jarrod?”
Nick stopped at the fireplace and stared into the empty hearth, his fingers grasping the mantle in a white knuckled grip. His arms shaking with uncontained rage, he retorted angrily, “He got caught in the fence, tore him up some.”
“How’d he get hurt? I thought him and Adam were out ridin’.”
“That wasn’t all they were doin’,” scoffed Nick.
Heath was growing irritable and he snapped at his brother, “What has got you so riled? Jarrod is upstairs with the doctor and you act like you could care less.”
Nick glared at Heath, “Right now I don’t really know if I do.”
His words caught Heath off guard and shock graced his face as he emphasized his own words, “Just what are you saying Nick?”
“I’m saying I don’t know what to feel right now. I caught him and Adam...um...uh...aw hell. I caught him and Adam kissin’ and touchin’ each other.” Nick couldn’t stop the involuntary shudder of disgust that went through him and Heath looked at him with wide eyes, totally disbelieving what he was hearing.
His guts twisting in knots, Heath shook his head adamantly, “Yer wrong, Nick! Jarrod ain’t like that. You saw wrong.” He was trying to convince himself as much as he was Nick, fear ripping through him at the thought of his own brother being one of ‘them’. His mind drifted back to Carterson and the old fears resurfaced, and he had to shake away the haunting images. He was snapped from his thoughts by Nick’s strangled cry, “Mother!”
Heath turned towards the doorway to see their mother with her hand over her gaping mouth, looking very peaked. Nick rushed to her side, suddenly worried she might collapse. Victoria clamped onto his supporting arms, too shocked to even speak after hearing his accusation. Heath hurried for a glass of water and Nick led her to the settee, practically carrying her tiny form. Neither man had ever seen her in such distress and they hovered anxiously as she regained some of her composure.
Victoria looked from one son to the other trying to gauge their reaction, but it did nothing to console her shattered world. How could this be happening? Surely it was all some big mistake. No son of hers and god forbid no son of Tom Barkley’s would ever stray so far from their moral upbringing. As hard as she tried, Victoria Barkley could find no acceptance in what Nick had said. There were no shades of gray in this, it was plain and simply...wrong! Maybe it wasn’t Jarrod’s fault. He’d even married, so it had to be a mistake. He’d never shown signs of such abominable acts before. Before Adam showed up there was no indication of such behavior. Of course, that was it! He was the reason her son had been tempted to partake in such a despicable act. All she had to do was get rid of him and they could talk to Jarrod, make him see how terribly wrong it was to lie with another man. Surely he knew what people would do if something like this ever got out. Even the Barkley name wouldn’t save them from public opinion and retribution. The only way to avoid a situation was to remove the temptation... one Adam Cartwright. After he was gone, they’d get Jarrod help. Find the best doctors to cure whatever it was that was causing this. Determination replaced the shock that had earlier graced her features and she started to rise.
Helping her to her feet, Nick asked curiously, “What are you going to do Mother?”
The matriarch was visibly calmer and back in control as she said without doubt, “I’m going to have a talk with Mr. Cartwright.”
Nick shook his head, “He’s not gonna go without a fight. He pulled a gun on me earlier when I tried to get Jarrod away from him.”
Heath, who had been quietly looking on, voiced his own opinion, “I’ll go with you Mother.”
Nodding her head, Victoria glanced at Nick, “Perhaps you should join us Nick. I don’t want any trouble.”
Giving her a quick nod, Nick strode out the door to find Silas and pass on his mother’s instructions. He joined her and Heath as they ascended the stairs. The doctor met them on the landing and relayed his prognosis, “Only a couple of the cuts required stitches, but I’m worried about infection. He has several puncture wounds that were difficult to clean. I’ve done what I can, we’ll just have to wait it out now. I’m concerned about his hand, but it’s too early to tell how bad it really is. I did what I could to fix the damage, only time will tell. Clean the cuts a couple times a day. I’ve left some salve to help with infection. Use it liberally and send for me if you need me.”
Victoria masked her feelings well, and spoke congenially to the man, “Thank you Howard. We appreciate you coming out.”
“It was no problem, Victoria. I’ll see myself to the door.” He headed down the stairs but turned back, “Oh and see to it that Jarrod’s friend cleans out his own wounds a couple times a day. Both hands took several stitches and I’m worried that they’ll get infected. I don’t think he heard my instructions. He’s very concerned for Jarrod.” Victoria nodded reluctantly, knowing full well they wouldn’t be caring for Adam’s injuries, but trying to appease the good doctor.
“Thank you again, Howard. We’ll be sure to pass on your instructions.”
The trio watched Howard leave and with a mutual sigh of resignation, they headed for Jarrod’s room. Adam sat with one knee on the bed, wiping Jarrod’s face with a damp rag. Jarrod struggled against the drowsiness of blood loss and pain medication, and Adam tried to calm him. “Shhh...You need to rest.” Adam held Jarrod’s hand lightly in his own bandaged hands. He’d forgotten they were even hurt until the doctor insisted on looking at them. Only then did he really look at the damage the wire had done. His father would be upset when he found out he wouldn’t be doing any work for a couple weeks. His thoughts were interrupted by the loud growl at his back, “Get your hands off him.”
Adam gently set Jarrod’s hand on the bed before releasing it, then turned cautiously towards the door. All three Barkley’s wore hard expressions and Adam dropped his head, realizing they knew the truth. Standing up, he glanced back at Jarrod, who was trying to sit up and was stopped short when he tried to help.
“I said, get your hands off him,” snapped Nick. Heath stood at his brother’s side, his own hateful expression boring holes in Adam. Ignoring Nick’s threatening words, Adam helped Jarrod lie down before turning his attention to the group at the door.
Victoria stepped forward, but maintained her distance. “I’d like to have a word with you, Mr. Cartwright.”
Shaking his head, Adam refused the matriarch, “Don’t bother Mrs. Barkley. You’ve all made your point perfectly clear. If you’ll give me a minute alone with Jarrod, I’ll leave peaceably.”
Nodding her agreement, Victoria spoke briefly before leaving the room, “I’ll have Silas gather your things. If you hurry you can still make the late train.” Her tone was only barely polite, but her words left no room for argument. He was leaving town and he was doing it tonight.
Adam refused to back down, “I just want to speak with Jarrod before I leave.”
Nick shook his head, “I’ll give you a minute, but it won’t be alone.” The was no mistaking his emphasis on alone. With no other options, Adam nodded and tried to ignore their presence in the room. Setting a knee on the bed, Adam gently clasped Jarrod’s arms and lowered him to the bed. There was no resistance, and Adam could see the tired resignation in his eyes. He was too tired and too sore to argue and his eyes shone with the sadness of Adam’s departure. With his back to Nick and Heath, Adam shielded his actions from them. His hand lifted and using the back of his knuckles he lightly caressed Jarrod’s cheek and spoke very low and soft, “I’ll write to you. See how you’re doing.”
Jarrod nodded, but he wasn’t really hearing the words. He was trying to memorize the face that loomed above him, suddenly very afraid he would never see it again. “Please. Don’t go!”
“I have to Jarrod. It’s your home, not mine. We knew this could happen. Maybe I’ll see you again someday.”
Grabbing Adam off the bed, Nick growled, “Like hell you will.” Heath’s anger erupted and Adam felt the powerful blow to his stomach. Doubled over and trying to get air to his lungs, Adam felt himself being manhandled by Jarrod’s brothers.
“NO!!!! Leave him be!” yelled Jarrod. His words were ignored as his brother’s grabbed Adam on either side and literally dragged him from the room. Jarrod bolted up in bed and moved to the edge, swinging his legs over the side. Every movement was agony, but he pushed it aside, his fear for Adam greater than his own pain. He stood up gingerly but his world spun dangerously around him. His knees gave out and he crashed to the floor unconscious.
Title: The Broken Road
Warnings: Slash
Pairings: Jarrod/Adam
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Two old friends discover they share more than just a simple friendship
Disclaimer: This story is for entertainment only and not intended to infringe on the holders of rights of The Big Valley or Bonanza.
Chapter 5
They headed towards home and were sidetracked by Adam insisting on doing a little work to appease Jarrod’s brothers. On their way through the south meadow, Adam spied the wagon loaded with fence posts and after some cajoling, talked Jarrod into working several hours replacing rotted posts.
Jarrod was tired, but content to work beside Adam. It was different than working with his brothers, who constantly made jabs about not working for a living. He and Adam worked in companionable silence, making quick work of the repairs. Finishing up, they leaned against the wagon, quenching their thirst and admiring their work.
Wiping the sweat from his brow, Adam handed the canteen to Jarrod, “Well the fence posts are in, but they’re going to have to replace that wire.”
Standing beside Jarrod, Adam’s shirt flapped open exposing his hot skin to the cool breeze. Leaning his head back, he opened his shirt and sighed at the coolness. Jarrod’s own shirt hung open, but he forgot how hot it was as he watched Adam. Turning to face Adam, Jarrod reached out his hand and caressed the dark hair on his chest. Adam looked down at his hand then grabbing it in his own hand, pulled Jarrod until he was leaning into his chest. Snaking his arm around Jarrod, he pulled him closer and began kissing him. The need for air finally made him stop and he looked at Jarrod, “I don’t recall fencing ever being this much fun.”
Jarrod ground himself into Adam, muttering, “Me either. The rewards are certainly worth the work.” Their eyes met and Jarrod leaned in, kissing the corners of Adam’s mouth as he asked, “Let me touch you.” Already his hand slipped between them and into the waistband of Adam’s pants. Adam inhaled sharply, giving Jarrod just the room he needed to get to his stiffening shaft. Shifting to the left, Jarrod reached deeper and grasping Adam’s manhood in his hand, began stroking him. Feeling Jarrod’s arousal pressed against his hip, Adam reached a hand into Jarrod’s pants and matched him stroke for stroke. As their passion grew, their mouths joined and they fought a battle of tongues, enjoying the taste of one another. They fed off each other’s passion, their strokes fast and frantic as they neared release, until they finally came together in a jarring, pulsing climax. Adam let go a harsh groan of satisfaction as he spewed his seed in Jarrod’s hand. Jarrod thrust into Adam’s hand, let go a loud sigh and filled his pants with his release. They clung to each other for support until they could catch their breaths. Finally moving apart, they cleaned themselves up, but stopped for an occasional kiss or two. Just as they got ready to leave they noticed Nick coming across the pasture from the rise behind them.
His horse barely even stopped when Nick vaulted from his saddle and stood toe to toe with Adam, his eyes filled with rage. “I want you off this ranch!”
Shock and surprise at Nick’s behavior spurred Jarrod into action. Storming towards Nick, Jarrod grabbed him and jerked him away from Adam, “What the devil has gotten into you?”
Nick yanked himself from Jarrod’s grasp and angrily pushed him away. Jarrod lay on the ground where he’d fallen, looking up at Nick in disbelief as he stalked over and pointed a finger at him. His face was red with a fury Jarrod was all too familiar with and he flinched when Nick growled at him, “I want you gone too!!” Nick wagged his finger between Jarrod and Adam, “Both of you. Get the hell out of my sight.”
Leaping to his feet, Jarrod’s normal control over his temper was fading, “Damn it Nick! What are you talking about?!”
Planting his hands on his hips, Nick glared at Jarrod, “I saw you. Saw you....oh hell I don’t even know what to call what I saw!”
Jarrod went ghost white at Nick’s words and cast a quick sideways glance at Adam who didn’t look any better. Nick saw the exchange and it only increased his rage. He shouted at his older brother, “I don’t ever want to lay eyes on you again Jarrod. As far as I’m concerned you are no longer any brother of mine, cause no brother of mine would do what I saw you doin’.”
Recovering from the shock of Nick’s accusation, Jarrod tried to explain, “Nick, listen to me. I can ex...” Nick didn’t want an explanation and he landed a blinding punch in Jarrod’s face. “Get the hell away from me!” Stumbling back, Jarrod landed in the fence off balance and hitting the wire, felt it give from the fence post. He tried to right himself but there was too much slack in the wire holding him up and balancing on his heels, he could get no leverage.
Seeing Jarrod get hit sparked fire in Adam and he launched himself headfirst into Nick’s stomach, sending them both to the ground. In a battle of strength, the two men traded blows as they rolled on the ground, both of them oblivious to Jarrod’s struggle to stand. Just as Jarrod started to get his feet under him, his eyes widened in fear when he felt the wire supporting him snap, sending him to the ground. He tried to stand but the released wire whipped back, twisting around him with every move he made. The more he struggled, the more entangled he became and it wrapped around his legs tightly. His balance compromised he flopped to the ground and the wire continued to ensnare him until the tension played out. In Jarrod’s mind the fight with the wire seemed to go on forever. In actuality it had only taken a matter of seconds to firmly encase him in it’s barbed teeth.
It wasn’t Jarrod’s scream that filled the air but Adam’s, “JARROD!!!” Jarrod could barely see from his position, but Nick was laying flat on the ground and Adam was scrambling to get to him.
Reaching Jarrod’s side, Adam tried to pull the wire from Jarrod’s trembling body, oblivious to his own pain as the sharp barbs ripped at the soft flesh of his palms. Jarrod lay unable to even move, his eyes clouded over as he shook with agony. His whole body was dappled with blood wherever a barb had torn or punctured the skin. In several places his clothes were torn where the wire had sliced into him as it had wrapped around him. Jarrod’s ragged voice pleaded with Adam, “Get...it...off!”
Adam tried to calm himself and get a better look at the situation. He bent closer to Jarrod and spoke in a shaky voice, “Hold on. I’m gonna see if there are some wire cutters in the wagon.” Rushing to the wagon, Adam leaned over the back and opened the toolbox under the seat hoping whoever loaded the wagon had thought to load them. As his hands fumbled for the wire cutters, he realized they were bleeding and was startled by the fact that he’d been unaware he’d even been hurt. He forgot about them again when his hand found the cutters. Racing back to Jarrod, he slid to a stop on his knees and wasted no time cutting at the wire. His blood covered hands soon made the tool slippery and impossible to grip. Frustrated, he stopped only long enough to rip the sleeve off his shirt and tearing it in two, wrapped a piece around each hand before cutting again.
Jarrod’s breathing was harsh and a moan or whimper would escape with each cut of the wire. Tears, sweat and blood mingled on his face and his eyes were clenched tight against the pain. His body trembled in shock and Adam raced to free him, fighting back his own tears. Freeing Jarrod of the last strand of wire, Adam’s voice reflected his concern as reached out to help him, “Can you help me get you out of this mess?”
Every movement was painful as the wire, still imbedded in places, clung to him. Helping him sit up, Adam leaned Jarrod into his shoulder as he picked wire off and flung it away. Jarrod held his arms in front of him, bent at the elbow and their uncontrollable shaking was unnerving. He flinched every time Adam pulled a piece of wire away and only when the last piece was gone did Jarrod grab Adam’s shirt in a tight fist. Adam could feel him trembling with pain and the amount of blood that now covered his clothes had Adam worried, but there was little he could do. There were simply too many cuts and punctures to deal with and the quicker he got Jarrod to the doctor the better. With the utmost care, Adam helped him lie down and had to physically pry Jarrod’s hand from his shirt. “It’s alright now. I’m just gonna get the horse.”
Jarrod looked at him, his blue eyes wide with pain. He didn’t even try to talk, just gave Adam a weak nod. Adam touched Jarrod’s cheek briefly, “Hold on.” Hurrying toward the horses, he chose his own, thinking it looked to be the stronger of the two animals and could carry both of them. Grabbing the reins, he led the horse to Jarrod and hoped the animal wouldn’t bolt at the smell of blood. The horse snorted, but held his place and Adam sighed his relief as he knelt down beside Jarrod. “You think you can stand?”
Again, the only response Adam got was a nod, but he took it as a good sign. At least Jarrod was thinking clear enough to understand that this would be easier with his cooperation. Adam gingerly pulled Jarrod’s arm over his shoulder and helped him to his feet. Jarrod’s breathing was loud and labored as he stood, and he almost buckled from dizziness and pain. Waiting until Jarrod found his feet, Adam maneuvered him to the horse. Adam moved Jarrod’s hands to the saddlehorn, “Hold on, don’t fall on me now.” Jarrod rested his forehead on the saddle as Adam reached down and lifted his foot into the stirrup. The pain was overwhelming and Jarrod started to lose what precious balance he had when he felt Adam standing behind him, making sure he didn’t fall.
Adam spoke to him softly, “You need a minute?”
Jarrod nodded slowly, and whispered, “Hurts.”
Kissing his cheek very carefully, Adam closed his eyes sympathetically, “I know. Let me know when.”
Both men knew that this was going to hurt no matter how careful they were and it only took a few seconds for Jarrod to give his consent to get it over with. Bending over, Adam grabbed Jarrod’s ankle and spoke, “On three. One...two...three.” When Adam said three, he lifted Jarrod’s ankle up at the same time Jarrod sank his weight into the stirrup and tried to pull himself up. They managed to get him in the saddle, but Jarrod slumped heavily over the saddlehorn as he cried out at the agony the effort had caused him. His breathing was fast and shallow and one hand clenched and unclenched against the pain as tears rolled down his cheeks. Jarrod’s other hand hung limply at his wrist and Adam worried about the damage the wire might have caused.
Adam took only a moment to make sure Jarrod wouldn’t slip off before mounting behind him. He reached forward to pull Jarrod back into his chest when a movement to his right caught his eye. Nick was suddenly standing beside them with his hands on the reins. Adam glared down at the dark haired rancher, “Let go!”
Nick glowered back, “Get down! I don’t want you any where near him!” When Adam tried to yank on the reins to get away, Nick reached out to pull him off the horse but Adam was prepared. As soon as Nick stepped in closer, Adam lifted his foot and planting it in the middle of Nick’s chest, kicked out as hard as he could. Nick went sailing to the ground and his own injuries were jarred enough to take the wind out of him. Adam stared down at him with fire in his eyes, “You’re wasting precious time Barkley! Go get the doctor while I take him home.”
His anger wasn’t pacified and Nick tried one more time to unseat Adam. This time he was stopped dead in his tracks by Adam’s lightening reflexes. Nick’s eyes widened as he stared down the barrel of Adam’s forty-five. Reluctantly Nick stepped back and let Adam go, but yelled at his retreating back, “Fine! But this ain’t over Cartwright!” Grabbing his hat off the ground, Nick slapped his thigh with it and stomped to his horse. Mounting up, he headed for the doctor.
Chapter 6
Everything inside of Adam told him he needed to hurry, but Jarrod was barely holding on as it was. Each moment seemed to pass like an hour as Adam watched Jarrod’s clothes become more bloodstained. A lot of the smaller wounds had stopped bleeding but he still had several cuts that kept oozing blood and Adam berated himself for not stopping long enough to check how serious Jarrod was wounded. At the time it seemed imperative to get him help rather than waste time. Jarrod slumped heavily into Adam, relying on him to hold him in the saddle. The only sound he made was an occasional groan of pain when the horse made an errant step. Each time he was jarred, Jarrod’s fingers dug deeper into the flesh of Adam’s forearm where he held on with a death grip.
Adam was terrified for Jarrod, “We’re almost there. Another mile.” Jarrod barely nodded and Adam wanted to hold him tighter but Jarrod’s injuries held him back, not wanting to cause him more pain. They rode on in silence but for an occasional muttering of reassurance from Adam. As they made the yard, Ciego took one look at Jarrod and hurried after the two as Adam headed straight for the front steps of the white mansion. Ciego took the reins and tied off the horse, while Adam spoke softly to Jarrod.
“You’re home now, Jarrod. We’ll get you some help. Just hold on for me.” Jarrod groaned as Adam helped him lean forward over the saddlehorn, and then dismounted from behind. He felt himself slipping sideways, but was caught by the strong arms of his friend that held him until he could get his feet under him. He tried to stay upright, but the loss of blood was making him dizzy and weak and his knees buckled despite his best efforts. Adam wrapped his arm across his shoulders and Ciego stepped in to do the same and they managed to get him up the steps and through the front door. Silas walked into the foyer intent on greeting whoever had come home and was stopped short by the bloody mess Jarrod was in. He didn’t even hesitate as he looked up the stairs and hollered, “Mrs. Barkley! Mr. Jarrod is hurt!”
Turning back to the trio at the door, he motioned up the stairs, “This way. He be needin’ a doctor.”
Adam spoke his first words since entering the house, and they had a tinge of animosity in them. “Nick went to town for the doctor.” He then added as a thought to himself, I hope.
Victoria hurried from her room and stopped on the landing at the sight of Jarrod covered head to toe in torn and bloody clothes. Gathering her skirt, she hurried to her son, alarmed by his condition, “Jarrod! What happened?!”
Raising his head weakly to acknowledge his mother, Jarrod couldn’t find the strength to give her a reassuring smile. He was in far too much pain and she could see the agony in his blue depths. Adam answered her question with as little information as was necessary, “He got caught in the fence wire. Nick’s gone for the doctor.”
Victoria wanted to touch her son, but afraid of hurting him further, got over her initial shock and began issuing orders. “Let’s get him cleaned up. Silas, bring plenty of bandages and warm water.”
Silas nodded and went back down the stairs. Victoria gave directions to Adam and Ciego then hurried ahead to ready his room. Jarrod was trembling with shock and pain as the two men carried him up the stairs to the bedroom. Ciego left as soon as they had him seated and began removing his tattered clothes. Victoria and Adam worked in silence, neither comfortable with the other to really voice their concerns or thoughts and normal pleasantries didn’t seem appropriate considering the circumstances. Jarrod leaned into Adam and let his mother help him with his clothes, too weary to even be embarrassed by his nakedness.
Adam was relieved to see that once the bloody clothes were removed the damage didn’t seem near as overwhelming. He was cut in several places, some deeper than others and puncture wounds were scattered all over his body. With the blood covered clothes gone, the damage no longer seemed life threatening. Most of the wounds had stopped bleeding except for the deep cut across Jarrod’s left hand and one up high on his back. Jarrod couldn’t stop from crying out when his mother wrapped his hand to stem the flow. His pain cut through her and she quickly apologized, “I’m sorry, son. We need to stop the bleeding.” She tried to be careful as she placed another on his back and applied pressure. Breathing through gritted teeth, Jarrod gripped Adam’s shirt tightly and tensed in the arms that held him. There was so much that Adam wanted to say, but with Victoria in the room there was little he could do to comfort Jarrod other than hold him while his mother cleaned him up. It took quite some time to clean away the blood and dirt, and they were just finishing when Nick appeared with the doctor. One searing look at Adam and Nick turned sharply from the room, leaving the care of his brother to the doctor and his mother.
Nick was entering the study for a much needed drink when Heath rushed into the house out of breath, his face fearful. “Nick! I heard Jarrod was hurt!”
“He’s upstairs with the doctor,” said Nick sourly. Heath was caught off guard by Nick’s callous attitude regarding Jarrod.
“Is he gonna be alright? What happened?”
Ignoring Heath’s questions, Nick stomped into the study and headed straight for the liquor, too angry to even speak at the moment. Heath was right behind him and watched Nick pour a drink then gulp it down. Concerned for Jarrod and frustrated with Nick’s silence, Heath asked tersely, “How’s Jarrod?”
Nick stopped at the fireplace and stared into the empty hearth, his fingers grasping the mantle in a white knuckled grip. His arms shaking with uncontained rage, he retorted angrily, “He got caught in the fence, tore him up some.”
“How’d he get hurt? I thought him and Adam were out ridin’.”
“That wasn’t all they were doin’,” scoffed Nick.
Heath was growing irritable and he snapped at his brother, “What has got you so riled? Jarrod is upstairs with the doctor and you act like you could care less.”
Nick glared at Heath, “Right now I don’t really know if I do.”
His words caught Heath off guard and shock graced his face as he emphasized his own words, “Just what are you saying Nick?”
“I’m saying I don’t know what to feel right now. I caught him and Adam...um...uh...aw hell. I caught him and Adam kissin’ and touchin’ each other.” Nick couldn’t stop the involuntary shudder of disgust that went through him and Heath looked at him with wide eyes, totally disbelieving what he was hearing.
His guts twisting in knots, Heath shook his head adamantly, “Yer wrong, Nick! Jarrod ain’t like that. You saw wrong.” He was trying to convince himself as much as he was Nick, fear ripping through him at the thought of his own brother being one of ‘them’. His mind drifted back to Carterson and the old fears resurfaced, and he had to shake away the haunting images. He was snapped from his thoughts by Nick’s strangled cry, “Mother!”
Heath turned towards the doorway to see their mother with her hand over her gaping mouth, looking very peaked. Nick rushed to her side, suddenly worried she might collapse. Victoria clamped onto his supporting arms, too shocked to even speak after hearing his accusation. Heath hurried for a glass of water and Nick led her to the settee, practically carrying her tiny form. Neither man had ever seen her in such distress and they hovered anxiously as she regained some of her composure.
Victoria looked from one son to the other trying to gauge their reaction, but it did nothing to console her shattered world. How could this be happening? Surely it was all some big mistake. No son of hers and god forbid no son of Tom Barkley’s would ever stray so far from their moral upbringing. As hard as she tried, Victoria Barkley could find no acceptance in what Nick had said. There were no shades of gray in this, it was plain and simply...wrong! Maybe it wasn’t Jarrod’s fault. He’d even married, so it had to be a mistake. He’d never shown signs of such abominable acts before. Before Adam showed up there was no indication of such behavior. Of course, that was it! He was the reason her son had been tempted to partake in such a despicable act. All she had to do was get rid of him and they could talk to Jarrod, make him see how terribly wrong it was to lie with another man. Surely he knew what people would do if something like this ever got out. Even the Barkley name wouldn’t save them from public opinion and retribution. The only way to avoid a situation was to remove the temptation... one Adam Cartwright. After he was gone, they’d get Jarrod help. Find the best doctors to cure whatever it was that was causing this. Determination replaced the shock that had earlier graced her features and she started to rise.
Helping her to her feet, Nick asked curiously, “What are you going to do Mother?”
The matriarch was visibly calmer and back in control as she said without doubt, “I’m going to have a talk with Mr. Cartwright.”
Nick shook his head, “He’s not gonna go without a fight. He pulled a gun on me earlier when I tried to get Jarrod away from him.”
Heath, who had been quietly looking on, voiced his own opinion, “I’ll go with you Mother.”
Nodding her head, Victoria glanced at Nick, “Perhaps you should join us Nick. I don’t want any trouble.”
Giving her a quick nod, Nick strode out the door to find Silas and pass on his mother’s instructions. He joined her and Heath as they ascended the stairs. The doctor met them on the landing and relayed his prognosis, “Only a couple of the cuts required stitches, but I’m worried about infection. He has several puncture wounds that were difficult to clean. I’ve done what I can, we’ll just have to wait it out now. I’m concerned about his hand, but it’s too early to tell how bad it really is. I did what I could to fix the damage, only time will tell. Clean the cuts a couple times a day. I’ve left some salve to help with infection. Use it liberally and send for me if you need me.”
Victoria masked her feelings well, and spoke congenially to the man, “Thank you Howard. We appreciate you coming out.”
“It was no problem, Victoria. I’ll see myself to the door.” He headed down the stairs but turned back, “Oh and see to it that Jarrod’s friend cleans out his own wounds a couple times a day. Both hands took several stitches and I’m worried that they’ll get infected. I don’t think he heard my instructions. He’s very concerned for Jarrod.” Victoria nodded reluctantly, knowing full well they wouldn’t be caring for Adam’s injuries, but trying to appease the good doctor.
“Thank you again, Howard. We’ll be sure to pass on your instructions.”
The trio watched Howard leave and with a mutual sigh of resignation, they headed for Jarrod’s room. Adam sat with one knee on the bed, wiping Jarrod’s face with a damp rag. Jarrod struggled against the drowsiness of blood loss and pain medication, and Adam tried to calm him. “Shhh...You need to rest.” Adam held Jarrod’s hand lightly in his own bandaged hands. He’d forgotten they were even hurt until the doctor insisted on looking at them. Only then did he really look at the damage the wire had done. His father would be upset when he found out he wouldn’t be doing any work for a couple weeks. His thoughts were interrupted by the loud growl at his back, “Get your hands off him.”
Adam gently set Jarrod’s hand on the bed before releasing it, then turned cautiously towards the door. All three Barkley’s wore hard expressions and Adam dropped his head, realizing they knew the truth. Standing up, he glanced back at Jarrod, who was trying to sit up and was stopped short when he tried to help.
“I said, get your hands off him,” snapped Nick. Heath stood at his brother’s side, his own hateful expression boring holes in Adam. Ignoring Nick’s threatening words, Adam helped Jarrod lie down before turning his attention to the group at the door.
Victoria stepped forward, but maintained her distance. “I’d like to have a word with you, Mr. Cartwright.”
Shaking his head, Adam refused the matriarch, “Don’t bother Mrs. Barkley. You’ve all made your point perfectly clear. If you’ll give me a minute alone with Jarrod, I’ll leave peaceably.”
Nodding her agreement, Victoria spoke briefly before leaving the room, “I’ll have Silas gather your things. If you hurry you can still make the late train.” Her tone was only barely polite, but her words left no room for argument. He was leaving town and he was doing it tonight.
Adam refused to back down, “I just want to speak with Jarrod before I leave.”
Nick shook his head, “I’ll give you a minute, but it won’t be alone.” The was no mistaking his emphasis on alone. With no other options, Adam nodded and tried to ignore their presence in the room. Setting a knee on the bed, Adam gently clasped Jarrod’s arms and lowered him to the bed. There was no resistance, and Adam could see the tired resignation in his eyes. He was too tired and too sore to argue and his eyes shone with the sadness of Adam’s departure. With his back to Nick and Heath, Adam shielded his actions from them. His hand lifted and using the back of his knuckles he lightly caressed Jarrod’s cheek and spoke very low and soft, “I’ll write to you. See how you’re doing.”
Jarrod nodded, but he wasn’t really hearing the words. He was trying to memorize the face that loomed above him, suddenly very afraid he would never see it again. “Please. Don’t go!”
“I have to Jarrod. It’s your home, not mine. We knew this could happen. Maybe I’ll see you again someday.”
Grabbing Adam off the bed, Nick growled, “Like hell you will.” Heath’s anger erupted and Adam felt the powerful blow to his stomach. Doubled over and trying to get air to his lungs, Adam felt himself being manhandled by Jarrod’s brothers.
“NO!!!! Leave him be!” yelled Jarrod. His words were ignored as his brother’s grabbed Adam on either side and literally dragged him from the room. Jarrod bolted up in bed and moved to the edge, swinging his legs over the side. Every movement was agony, but he pushed it aside, his fear for Adam greater than his own pain. He stood up gingerly but his world spun dangerously around him. His knees gave out and he crashed to the floor unconscious.
