![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
Title: Broken Road
Author: Chaps1870
Warnings: Slash
Pairings: Jarrod/Adam
Rating: FRAO
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 15
Every long lost dream led me to where you are
Others who broke my heart they were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms
This much I know is true
That God blessed the broken road that led me straight to you
~Bless the Broken Road-Rascal Flatts
Jarrod awoke sometime in the middle of the night and found himself draped over Adam. He needed to make a trip down the hall and carefully moved away from him. As he went to stand, his knees started to buckle and he grabbed for the bedpost to keep from falling. Incredibly sore, he took a few deep breaths and slowly reached out for his pants. Sitting down gingerly on the bed, he winced when his battered tissue came in contact with the mattress. His pants went on very slowly.
Rolling over and not seeing Jarrod beside, Adam sat upright, his heart racing. Seeing him sitting on the side of the bed brought some relief and he asked worriedly, “Jarrod?”
“Shh, go back to sleep. I’m just going down the hall.”
“Are you alright?”
“I’ll be better if I can make it down the hall,” quipped Jarrod. He eased himself off the bed and took a few tentative steps, wincing with every one. Adam was instantly beside him, alerted by his cautious movements.
Wrapping his arm around Jarrod’s waist, he questioned, “What’s wrong?”
“I’m just a little sore is all. Stop worrying.”
Grabbing his own pants, Adam replied, “Let me help you.”
Jarrod stopped Adam with a firm hand on his chest, “Too risky. I doubt either of us could explain you coming out of my room half dressed in the middle of the night.”
Adam released the pants in his hand and nodded as they dropped back to the floor, “Are you sure you can make it?”
“I’ll be fine as long as I move slowww.”
Reaching out to clasp Jarrod’s arm, Adam caressed his arm as he said contritely, “I’m sorry for hurting you.”
Covering the hand that held his arm, Jarrod patted it, “Don’t be. It was worth every minute.” Adam looked into his eyes to see if they held the truth and saw nothing but contentment shining back at him. Jarrod leaned forward and gave Adam a reassuring kiss before gesturing him away from the door. “Stay out of sight.”
When Adam slipped behind the door, Jarrod opened it and glancing up and down the empty hallway, made the slow walk to the bathroom. He grew alarmed when he felt something trickling down his thighs and his steps increased despite the pain. Entering the small room, he locked the door and quickly removed his pants. He was relieved when he realized it was Adam’s fluid that ran down his legs. His overly stretched hole couldn’t hold it in when he stood up and gravity had taken over. He sat on the commode for a long time, grimacing as nature took over. Taking the time to clean himself up, he grabbed a wet towel for Adam, and ambled back down the hall to his room. As soon as he was in the door, Adam bolted off the bed and was helping him back to bed. Letting Adam help him with his pants, Jarrod slid back on the bed and lay down, sighing in relief. Still holding the damp towel, he held it out to Adam, “Here I brought this so you could clean up a little.”
Adam had tried rubbing away the dried stickiness that covered the hair on his chest and abdomen, but had finally given up. Taking the towel, he smiled gratefully, “Thanks. It was starting to itch.” That and as it dried it pulled at the fine hairs and was becoming uncomfortable. He envied Jarrod his almost smooth chest as he cleaned the black mat of hair on his own chest. Throwing the towel in the corner he joined Jarrod in bed, “Are you doing alright?”
Nodding his head, Jarrod rolled closer and draped himself over Adam, “I’m fine. Give me a couple days and I’ll be good as new.”
“Are you staying a couple days?” asked Adam warily. He been caught up in Jarrod’s mere presence earlier, but now seemed a good time to discuss the full reason for his sudden appearance in Virginia City.
“I thought I’d leave that up to you. I’m between cases right now. I thought we could spend some time together if you’ll let me. I won’t blame you if you don’t want me to stay.”
Slipping an arm around Jarrod, Adam pulled him in close to his side and kissed his head, “I want you to stay, but I think we need to talk.”
“I know. We should have done that first. I just... well, I just needed you to see how much I do love you. I tried to deny it, but it didn’t work.”
“What made you change your mind? You seemed pretty sure the last time I saw you.” His hand caressed Jarrod’s back as he spoke sincerely, “I can’t be just friends Jarrod. Not now. Not ever again.”
Jarrod’s fingers played with the coarse hair on Adam’s chest as he sighed, “I know that now. I tried to move on after you left, it didn’t work. It took the death of friend to make me realize that my life was passing by and I had nothing to show for it. I didn’t want to go another minute alone when everything I wanted was waiting here with you.”
Adam buried his head in the crook of Jarrod’s neck, his voice deep and husky, “I can’t live without you. You know that don’t you?”
Taking the initiative, Jarrod rolled Adam back on to his back and worked his tongue and lips to Adam’s nipples, nuzzling his dark hair along the way. He teased the little pebble, nipping and sucking at it while his hand roamed the hard planes of Adam’s abdomen. Sliding lower, Jarrod’s own hardness left a trail down Adam’s thigh. Resting his head on his hip, Jarrod’s tongue darted out and flicked the vein on the underside of Adam’s pulsing shaft. Jerking at the contact, Adam moaned and tried pushing himself towards Jarrod’s questing tongue, but Jarrod refused to be rushed. Licking and sucking up and down Adam’s length, Jarrod continued until it was a deep purple and leaking its creamy white fluid. Adam was breathing heavily, and Jarrod rocked into his leg as he worked his mouth up and down his engorged flesh.
“Turn!”
Jarrod lifted his head and looked at Adam, puzzled, “What?”
“Turn around so that I can do you.”
Shifting slowly, Jarrod turned so that his body lay along Adam’s, only in the opposite direction. Adam rolled and immediately went to work on Jarrod’s thick shaft. Jarrod gasped as Adam swallowed his length and sucked it greedily. Covering Adam’s own jutting erection with his mouth, Jarrod gripped the base of his shaft and thrust his hand in time with his mouth. The previous teasing proved to be too much and Adam pumped into Jarrod’s mouth, spurting stream after stream down his throat. Jarrod swallowed hard and thrust his own hips sharply as he erupted in the moist warmth of Adam’s mouth. Short of breath, they both tried to swallow and breath as their powerful orgasms died off.
Twisting on the bed, Jarrod snuggled up to Adam and pulled him possessively to his chest, “I missed you so much, Adam. Even when we spent time together I missed being this close. Just holding you.” Adam mumbled something sleepily, and Jarrod smiled warmly as he hugged him tight. “Goodnight, Adam.”
***************
The next morning, Jarrod woke to find himself alone and he panicked as he looked about the room. There was no sign that Adam had even been there, until his eyes found the note resting on the nightstand.
I’ll meet you downstairs for breakfast,
A
Jarrod hurried out of bed and was instantly reminded of the soreness in his backside. Moving more cautiously, he donned his pants and grabbing his shaving gear, headed down the hall to clean up. Returning to his room, he dressed in some casual clothes and went to meet Adam for breakfast. Jarrod found Adam sitting in the dining room reading the paper and drinking coffee. Adam greeted him like an old friend and they settled into an innocuous conversation after ordering some breakfast. When breakfast arrived they ate like two starving men, their conversation going by the wayside as they enjoyed the first real meal they had in over a month. Their self-imposed separation had been difficult for both and neither had been eating well or taking great care of themselves. It felt good to want to eat.
“I have to get back home this morning. Will you come with me?”
Hesitating, Jarrod replied, “I don’t know Adam. You think that is such a good idea?”
Flashing Jarrod a dimpled grin, Adam insisted, “I’ll behave, I promise. I’d like you to meet my family.”
“It’s not you I’m worried about,” teased Jarrod, added reluctantly, “I suppose a few days wouldn’t hurt.”
“If you don’t mind getting them lawyer hands a little dirty, I’m sure I can find us some out of the way places to work.”
Suddenly serious, Jarrod leaned closer and dropped his voice, “I won’t do anything to put you at risk with your family. I won’t have you going through what I have.”
“I never doubted that for a minute.” Adam gently slapped Jarrod’s arm, “We better get going then. Pa’s gonna start to wonder where I am. Why don’t you go grab your things and I’ll get the horses.”
Jarrod thought they would never get to the ranch and he fought to stay upright in the saddle so as not to worry Adam. His soreness had only intensified with the saddle rubbing him and he was sweating from the pain by the time the pulled into the yard. Jarrod was grateful no one heard them come in. When he went to dismount, his knees suddenly refused to hold him up and he grabbed for the saddle to keep from falling. Adam hurried to his side and asked softly, “Jarrod?”
Wiping away the sweat on his face, Jarrod managed to get his feet under him and he straightened up. “I just need a minute.”
“Can you make it into the barn?” Jarrod nodded and Adam took the horses. He led them slowly into the barn, watching Jarrod carefully the whole time. His pain was obvious, and Adam mentally kicked himself for not considering how painful the ride out must have been for Jarrod. He’d hid it so well at breakfast that it hadn’t occurred to Adam to ask how he was doing. Walking to the barn was painful but already some of the agony of riding was starting to dissipate and Jarrod waited until Adam led the horses to their stalls before he sat down tenderly. Grabbing the canteen off his saddle, Adam offered it to Jarrod, “Why didn’t you say something?”
Taking a drink, Jarrod shrugged, “I really didn’t think it would hurt that bad.” As Adam squatted down in front of him, Jarrod could see his guilt and said reassuringly with a half smile, “I’ll be fine. No horses the rest of the day though.”
A hand on Jarrod’s knee, Adam said firmly, “Next time don’t be so tough.”
Jarrod chuckled, “Next time it’s your turn.” Adam paled and Jarrod reached out to grab his arm, as he said softly, “I didn’t mean that, I’m sorry.”
Adam looked him in the eye, speaking honestly, “No. I want to, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say that seeing you in pain isn’t a little unnerving.”
“We can wait as long as you need Adam. I understand.”
Giving Jarrod a quick kiss, Adam stood up, “Thanks. Let me get these horses taken care of and we’ll get you inside for some rest.”
“And how pray tell are you going to explain that one?”
Tilting head, Adam grabbed his chin exaggerating his thinking, “Hmmmm... let’s see. How about you’ve just finished a grueling case and your doctor suggested you take some time off to rest and recover? What better place than the wide-open space of the Ponderosa with your best friend? Besides Pa and my brother’s aren’t home. There horses aren’t here.” Adam flashed him a cocky grin.
Rolling his eyes, Jarrod got to his feet. “Well hurry up then, cause someone had me up all night and a nap sounds pretty good.”
Chapter 16
Adam spent most of the day close to the house, working on chores that had been neglected over the last few weeks. His pa and brothers would be home soon for supper so he decided to call it a day and get cleaned up. He was worried about Jarrod, having fallen asleep before lunch, he still hadn’t woken. It was obvious that Jarrod wasn’t taking care of himself, but Adam couldn’t begrudge him that, he’d done no better lately. Entering the house through the kitchen, Adam spoke with their Chinese cook, “How long before supper, Hop Sing?”
“When Missa Cartwright get home, we eat. You clean up. When you done, you see Hop Sing, have something fo’ friend.”
Puzzled, Adam tilted his head and frowned, “What?”
Hop Sing waved him off as he tended dinner, “Hot water ready in bath. You go clean up. Hop Sing have when you done.” Shaking his head in confusion, Adam knew better than to argue with the man. Hop Sing’s temper was too easily riled and he went to clean up as requested, wondering what the man could possibly have for Jarrod. He returned a half hour later, cleaned up and feeling much refreshed and Hop Sing handed him a small tin about the size of a silver dollar, “You give friend. Make hurt go away.”
Adam’s eyes widened and he looked down at the small man, his heart racing against his will, “How did you know he was hurting?”
“Hop Sing know.” Adam suddenly found a finger being pushed into his chest and Hop Sing chastising him, “You be more careful, he not hurt so much.” His legs wouldn’t hold him up and Adam dropped to the bench behind him, shaking nervously. There was no way Hop Sing could know the truth. The only time he’d even seen Jarrod was when they came into the house. Adam had taken Jarrod to his room and gone outside to work so they’d done nothing to arouse suspicion. This was not happening, not again.
“Missa Adam?” Adam shook himself from his thoughts, forgetting for a moment that Hop Sing was still there. He looked up at the Chinaman and could find no words. It was Hop Sing that spoke again, “In China, such thing not considered bad. Good thing. Pure love. You no worry. Secret safe.” He lowered his voice and spoke with genuine concern as he pointed at the tin in his hand, “Go to friend. Make better.”
A red faced Adam strode towards the door but stopped and turned back, “Thank you, Hop Sing.”
Hop Sing was once again his stern self when he reprimanded the oldest Cartwright son. “You hurry. Supper be ready soon. No on time, no eat. Hop Sing cook, cook, cook. No one appreciate.” Smiling to himself, Adam tightened his grip on the small tin in his hand and went to wake Jarrod for supper.
“Jarrod...wake up!”
Rolling over and stretching, Jarrod grimace in pain and stilled his movements. Adam winced, still guilty about his part in it all. “You still sore?”
Jarrod sat up and leaned forward, still trying to wake himself, “A little.”
Kneeling on the bed, Adam held out the tin. “Hop Sing gave me this. Said it would help.”
Eyes wide and very awake, Jarrod panicked, “Why did you tell him?”
Adam rested his hand on Jarrod’s outstretched leg. “I didn’t tell him anything. He figured it out somehow. The man doesn’t miss anything. He won’t say anything. He was more worried about you than anything we’ve done. In fact he told me to be more careful. I trust him not to say anything, Jarrod.”
Jarrod wasn’t convinced. All he could think of was reliving his worst nightmare all over again, “Are you sure? I can leave Adam. I can stay in town.”
Squeezing his hand, Adam tried to reassure him. “I want you here. We are going to have to learn to deal with this...together.” Just then they heard the heavy slamming of the front door and Jarrod startled. Adam smiled, “It’s my family getting home. Why don’t you use some that and freshen up and I’ll go let them know we have company.”
Nodding, Jarrod shifted to get out of bed and Adam helped him to his feet. Dropping a hand to his hip, Adam leaned in and kissed him. “I’m glad you’re here. Don’t worry so much.”
Kissing him back, Jarrod shoved him towards the door, “You’d better go, before you go missing.”
Adam descended the stairs and was greeted by his father’s booming voice, “Where have you been all day?” Cringing, Adam watched his brother’s make a hasty retreat to the kitchen to clean up and he took a deep breath.
Speaking in a calm voice, Adam was hoping to negate his father’s anger. “Pa, can I talk to ya for minute?”
The approach worked. Ben could see Adam’s concerned look and his anger was forgotten, “What is it, Adam?”
“We have company. A friend of mine came to town last night. I invited him to stay here.” Hoping to deflect too many questions, he tried to explain, “He’s had a tough time the last few months with family and his work. He just needs some time to relax and take care of himself.”
Ben nodded, and asked curiously, “Do we know this friend?”
Adam shook his head, “He a friend from my college days. I hadn’t seen him in years until almost a year ago. I’ve tried to catch up with him when I go to San Francisco.”
Wanting more answers, Ben was stopped from asking any more questions by Jarrod’s presence on the stairs. Adam turned and watched Jarrod descend, happy to see him moving with relative ease. Jarrod turned on his famous charm and advanced on he and his father, “Mr. Cartwright it’s nice to meet you. Adam’s told me a lot about you.” Adam noticed that Jarrod had his left hand tucked into his pocket to hide it from sight. He didn’t realize that Jarrod still felt self-conscious and wondered if it was because of his unease in his father’s presence or something he always did.
Ben shook the young man’s hand, but couldn’t say the same. Adam quickly interjected, “Pa, this is Jarrod Barkley.”
“It’s always a pleasure to meet one of Adam’s friends, Mr. Barkley.”
“Jarrod.”
Hop Sing came out of the kitchen at that moment and barked, “Supper ready. Eat now or it get cold.”
Ben rolled his eyes at his cook’s manners, “I’m sorry but Hop Sing doesn’t take kindly to anyone being late for meals.” He placed a fatherly hand on Jarrod’s back and led him towards the table, “Let’s sit down before he takes the food away and leaves us nothing to eat,” laughed Ben.
Adam led the way and motioned for Jarrod to sit, before he took his own seat beside him. Jarrod sat down tenderly, but didn’t show any obvious pain and Adam sighed inwardly, making a mental note to thank Hop Sing later. Hoss and Little Joe could be heard arguing in the kitchen, but they went silent as they rounded the corner and saw a dinner guest. Adam quickly made introductions as Hop Sing brought in the meal. The men quickly filled their plates and Ben made conversation as they ate, “So Jarrod, Adam says you’re from San Francisco. Do you like it there?”
Smiling as he spoke, Jarrod answered, “It’s where the work is.”
“What do you do?”
“I’m a lawyer, Mr. Cartwright.”
Joe piped in, “You don’t look like a lawyer.”
Ben reprimanded, “Joseph!”
Ducking his head, Joe muttered, “Well he don’t.”
Jarrod laughed at the young man’s impertinence, “Well I normally wear a suit, but it seemed unnecessary for this trip.”
“What brings ya ta the Ponderosa?” asked Hoss, filling his mouth with more food as he waited for an answer.
“Just some rest and relaxation. Adam informed me it was the best place for it.”
Adam marveled at Jarrod’s ease at handling his family and attributed it to his time as a lawyer. His hand slipped beneath the table and gently squeezed Jarrod’s leg. Jarrod turned and making sure no one’s eyes were on them, winked at him. Adam suppressed a snicker realizing he had read Jarrod right and he was playing the game to perfection.
Jarrod found comfort in sitting at the table with family, even if it wasn’t his own. He’d missed the personal time and the occasional bantering. Hoss and Little Joe were a lot like Heath and Nick, if just a little less subtle with their bickering. Ben ruled the meal just as his mother would have, never letting anything get out of hand. The fair wasn’t as fancy perhaps, but it certainly made up for it in taste. The meal was baked chicken cooked to perfection and it literally fell off the bone. Mashed potatoes, rolls and vegetables topped off the meal.
Hop Sing entered and smiled at the empty plates, “You eat good. Get desert now.”
Jarrod’s manners dictated a reply, “May I commend you on an excellent meal Hop Sing.”
“Make just fo’ you. You too skinny. Hop Sing fix you up.” Jarrod turned red and the whole family laughed, used to Hop Sing’s forwardness where food was concerned.
Ben apologized, glaring at Hop Sing as he spoke, “Please forgive him. He takes his job very seriously and that includes bullying our guests.”
Shaking his head, Hop Sing shuffled back to the kitchen, “Not bully. Too skinny. I get dessert.”
Jarrod recovered quickly and grinned, “I suppose a few more pounds wouldn’t hurt. With meals like this one, I don’t think it will be a problem for long.” Dessert was served and as Jarrod picked up his fork to eat, it suddenly dawned on him that he hadn’t had used his knife through the entire meal. His left hand had remained safely beneath the table. He looked at Hop Sing and something told him that it wasn’t a coincidence. He passed a barely discernable nod at the cook and receiving a pleased smile in return, knew he’d guessed right. Adam was right. The man missed nothing.
It was late when Jarrod slipped outside for a smoke and was surprised when Adam joined him a short time later as he wandered to the back porch. “You’re up late.”
“I guess all that sleep today,” shrugged Jarrod. “It’s so quiet out here. Seemed a waste to just lie in bed staring at the ceiling. What are you doing up?”
Moving behind Jarrod, Adam wrapped his arm around his upper chest and held him close. “I heard you moving around. Just making sure you were alright.”
Leaning heavily into Adam, Jarrod enjoyed the closeness, “I’m fine. You should get some sleep.”
Nuzzling Jarrod’s neck, Adam sighed, “You need to find a way to relax.” Lifting Jarrod’s shirt, his hand splayed over his stomach as he breathed huskily in his ear. “I can help you relax.”
Already his body was responding, but fear kept his senses clear enough to pull from Adam’s embrace. Sitting on the porch step, Jarrod shook his head and muttered, “I can’t Adam.”
Adam sat beside him and rested his elbows on his knees, “You alright?”
“I’m fine, I just don’t want to get caught in a compromising situation again.”
“It’s pitch black out here, no one can see anything,” chuckled Adam.
“Well, I’m not sure how well sound travels out here, I don’t trust myself.”
Adam spoke sympathetically, “You don’t need to defend yourself, Jarrod.” His voice dropped, “When Hop Sing talked to me earlier I suddenly understood how difficult it was for you. I felt my whole world drop out from under me, especially thinking about how your family reacted.”
“You have a wonderful family. They remind me of my own in some ways. It’s nice being here.”
“I’m glad you’re enjoying it. You need some time just relaxing...” Adam teased, “and put on some weight. You’re too skinny.”
Jarrod smiled, “My family was always telling me I was getting fat and now that I’ve lost the weight I don’t plan on gaining it all back.”
Adam rested his hand behind Jarrod’s back and his other hand slipped under his shirt again, “I like the way you look, but you really do need to take better care of yourself and that means eating better.”
“That’s calling the kettle black!” Jarrod covered Adam’s hand but didn’t remove it and they sat for a long time just enjoying the closeness. After a time, Adam yawned and hearing it, Jarrod insisted, “Come on. It’s time to get some sleep. After being up all night last night I know you’re exhausted.”
Removing his hand, Adam eased himself to his feet and sighed, “I wish we didn’t have to be apart when you’re here.”
“I know, but we can’t take any chances.”
The two men headed towards the front of the house, but as they rounded the corned, Adam grabbed Jarrod and pulled him into his chest. He leaned in dropping a gentle kiss on his lips, but kept it light afraid he would get carried away with anything more passionate. Jarrod returned it and they broke apart, reluctantly heading to their own beds for the night.
Author: Chaps1870
Warnings: Slash
Pairings: Jarrod/Adam
Rating: FRAO
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 15
Others who broke my heart they were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms
This much I know is true
That God blessed the broken road that led me straight to you
~Bless the Broken Road-Rascal Flatts
Jarrod awoke sometime in the middle of the night and found himself draped over Adam. He needed to make a trip down the hall and carefully moved away from him. As he went to stand, his knees started to buckle and he grabbed for the bedpost to keep from falling. Incredibly sore, he took a few deep breaths and slowly reached out for his pants. Sitting down gingerly on the bed, he winced when his battered tissue came in contact with the mattress. His pants went on very slowly.
Rolling over and not seeing Jarrod beside, Adam sat upright, his heart racing. Seeing him sitting on the side of the bed brought some relief and he asked worriedly, “Jarrod?”
“Shh, go back to sleep. I’m just going down the hall.”
“Are you alright?”
“I’ll be better if I can make it down the hall,” quipped Jarrod. He eased himself off the bed and took a few tentative steps, wincing with every one. Adam was instantly beside him, alerted by his cautious movements.
Wrapping his arm around Jarrod’s waist, he questioned, “What’s wrong?”
“I’m just a little sore is all. Stop worrying.”
Grabbing his own pants, Adam replied, “Let me help you.”
Jarrod stopped Adam with a firm hand on his chest, “Too risky. I doubt either of us could explain you coming out of my room half dressed in the middle of the night.”
Adam released the pants in his hand and nodded as they dropped back to the floor, “Are you sure you can make it?”
“I’ll be fine as long as I move slowww.”
Reaching out to clasp Jarrod’s arm, Adam caressed his arm as he said contritely, “I’m sorry for hurting you.”
Covering the hand that held his arm, Jarrod patted it, “Don’t be. It was worth every minute.” Adam looked into his eyes to see if they held the truth and saw nothing but contentment shining back at him. Jarrod leaned forward and gave Adam a reassuring kiss before gesturing him away from the door. “Stay out of sight.”
When Adam slipped behind the door, Jarrod opened it and glancing up and down the empty hallway, made the slow walk to the bathroom. He grew alarmed when he felt something trickling down his thighs and his steps increased despite the pain. Entering the small room, he locked the door and quickly removed his pants. He was relieved when he realized it was Adam’s fluid that ran down his legs. His overly stretched hole couldn’t hold it in when he stood up and gravity had taken over. He sat on the commode for a long time, grimacing as nature took over. Taking the time to clean himself up, he grabbed a wet towel for Adam, and ambled back down the hall to his room. As soon as he was in the door, Adam bolted off the bed and was helping him back to bed. Letting Adam help him with his pants, Jarrod slid back on the bed and lay down, sighing in relief. Still holding the damp towel, he held it out to Adam, “Here I brought this so you could clean up a little.”
Adam had tried rubbing away the dried stickiness that covered the hair on his chest and abdomen, but had finally given up. Taking the towel, he smiled gratefully, “Thanks. It was starting to itch.” That and as it dried it pulled at the fine hairs and was becoming uncomfortable. He envied Jarrod his almost smooth chest as he cleaned the black mat of hair on his own chest. Throwing the towel in the corner he joined Jarrod in bed, “Are you doing alright?”
Nodding his head, Jarrod rolled closer and draped himself over Adam, “I’m fine. Give me a couple days and I’ll be good as new.”
“Are you staying a couple days?” asked Adam warily. He been caught up in Jarrod’s mere presence earlier, but now seemed a good time to discuss the full reason for his sudden appearance in Virginia City.
“I thought I’d leave that up to you. I’m between cases right now. I thought we could spend some time together if you’ll let me. I won’t blame you if you don’t want me to stay.”
Slipping an arm around Jarrod, Adam pulled him in close to his side and kissed his head, “I want you to stay, but I think we need to talk.”
“I know. We should have done that first. I just... well, I just needed you to see how much I do love you. I tried to deny it, but it didn’t work.”
“What made you change your mind? You seemed pretty sure the last time I saw you.” His hand caressed Jarrod’s back as he spoke sincerely, “I can’t be just friends Jarrod. Not now. Not ever again.”
Jarrod’s fingers played with the coarse hair on Adam’s chest as he sighed, “I know that now. I tried to move on after you left, it didn’t work. It took the death of friend to make me realize that my life was passing by and I had nothing to show for it. I didn’t want to go another minute alone when everything I wanted was waiting here with you.”
Adam buried his head in the crook of Jarrod’s neck, his voice deep and husky, “I can’t live without you. You know that don’t you?”
Taking the initiative, Jarrod rolled Adam back on to his back and worked his tongue and lips to Adam’s nipples, nuzzling his dark hair along the way. He teased the little pebble, nipping and sucking at it while his hand roamed the hard planes of Adam’s abdomen. Sliding lower, Jarrod’s own hardness left a trail down Adam’s thigh. Resting his head on his hip, Jarrod’s tongue darted out and flicked the vein on the underside of Adam’s pulsing shaft. Jerking at the contact, Adam moaned and tried pushing himself towards Jarrod’s questing tongue, but Jarrod refused to be rushed. Licking and sucking up and down Adam’s length, Jarrod continued until it was a deep purple and leaking its creamy white fluid. Adam was breathing heavily, and Jarrod rocked into his leg as he worked his mouth up and down his engorged flesh.
“Turn!”
Jarrod lifted his head and looked at Adam, puzzled, “What?”
“Turn around so that I can do you.”
Shifting slowly, Jarrod turned so that his body lay along Adam’s, only in the opposite direction. Adam rolled and immediately went to work on Jarrod’s thick shaft. Jarrod gasped as Adam swallowed his length and sucked it greedily. Covering Adam’s own jutting erection with his mouth, Jarrod gripped the base of his shaft and thrust his hand in time with his mouth. The previous teasing proved to be too much and Adam pumped into Jarrod’s mouth, spurting stream after stream down his throat. Jarrod swallowed hard and thrust his own hips sharply as he erupted in the moist warmth of Adam’s mouth. Short of breath, they both tried to swallow and breath as their powerful orgasms died off.
Twisting on the bed, Jarrod snuggled up to Adam and pulled him possessively to his chest, “I missed you so much, Adam. Even when we spent time together I missed being this close. Just holding you.” Adam mumbled something sleepily, and Jarrod smiled warmly as he hugged him tight. “Goodnight, Adam.”
***************
The next morning, Jarrod woke to find himself alone and he panicked as he looked about the room. There was no sign that Adam had even been there, until his eyes found the note resting on the nightstand.
I’ll meet you downstairs for breakfast,
A
Jarrod hurried out of bed and was instantly reminded of the soreness in his backside. Moving more cautiously, he donned his pants and grabbing his shaving gear, headed down the hall to clean up. Returning to his room, he dressed in some casual clothes and went to meet Adam for breakfast. Jarrod found Adam sitting in the dining room reading the paper and drinking coffee. Adam greeted him like an old friend and they settled into an innocuous conversation after ordering some breakfast. When breakfast arrived they ate like two starving men, their conversation going by the wayside as they enjoyed the first real meal they had in over a month. Their self-imposed separation had been difficult for both and neither had been eating well or taking great care of themselves. It felt good to want to eat.
“I have to get back home this morning. Will you come with me?”
Hesitating, Jarrod replied, “I don’t know Adam. You think that is such a good idea?”
Flashing Jarrod a dimpled grin, Adam insisted, “I’ll behave, I promise. I’d like you to meet my family.”
“It’s not you I’m worried about,” teased Jarrod, added reluctantly, “I suppose a few days wouldn’t hurt.”
“If you don’t mind getting them lawyer hands a little dirty, I’m sure I can find us some out of the way places to work.”
Suddenly serious, Jarrod leaned closer and dropped his voice, “I won’t do anything to put you at risk with your family. I won’t have you going through what I have.”
“I never doubted that for a minute.” Adam gently slapped Jarrod’s arm, “We better get going then. Pa’s gonna start to wonder where I am. Why don’t you go grab your things and I’ll get the horses.”
Jarrod thought they would never get to the ranch and he fought to stay upright in the saddle so as not to worry Adam. His soreness had only intensified with the saddle rubbing him and he was sweating from the pain by the time the pulled into the yard. Jarrod was grateful no one heard them come in. When he went to dismount, his knees suddenly refused to hold him up and he grabbed for the saddle to keep from falling. Adam hurried to his side and asked softly, “Jarrod?”
Wiping away the sweat on his face, Jarrod managed to get his feet under him and he straightened up. “I just need a minute.”
“Can you make it into the barn?” Jarrod nodded and Adam took the horses. He led them slowly into the barn, watching Jarrod carefully the whole time. His pain was obvious, and Adam mentally kicked himself for not considering how painful the ride out must have been for Jarrod. He’d hid it so well at breakfast that it hadn’t occurred to Adam to ask how he was doing. Walking to the barn was painful but already some of the agony of riding was starting to dissipate and Jarrod waited until Adam led the horses to their stalls before he sat down tenderly. Grabbing the canteen off his saddle, Adam offered it to Jarrod, “Why didn’t you say something?”
Taking a drink, Jarrod shrugged, “I really didn’t think it would hurt that bad.” As Adam squatted down in front of him, Jarrod could see his guilt and said reassuringly with a half smile, “I’ll be fine. No horses the rest of the day though.”
A hand on Jarrod’s knee, Adam said firmly, “Next time don’t be so tough.”
Jarrod chuckled, “Next time it’s your turn.” Adam paled and Jarrod reached out to grab his arm, as he said softly, “I didn’t mean that, I’m sorry.”
Adam looked him in the eye, speaking honestly, “No. I want to, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say that seeing you in pain isn’t a little unnerving.”
“We can wait as long as you need Adam. I understand.”
Giving Jarrod a quick kiss, Adam stood up, “Thanks. Let me get these horses taken care of and we’ll get you inside for some rest.”
“And how pray tell are you going to explain that one?”
Tilting head, Adam grabbed his chin exaggerating his thinking, “Hmmmm... let’s see. How about you’ve just finished a grueling case and your doctor suggested you take some time off to rest and recover? What better place than the wide-open space of the Ponderosa with your best friend? Besides Pa and my brother’s aren’t home. There horses aren’t here.” Adam flashed him a cocky grin.
Rolling his eyes, Jarrod got to his feet. “Well hurry up then, cause someone had me up all night and a nap sounds pretty good.”
Chapter 16
Adam spent most of the day close to the house, working on chores that had been neglected over the last few weeks. His pa and brothers would be home soon for supper so he decided to call it a day and get cleaned up. He was worried about Jarrod, having fallen asleep before lunch, he still hadn’t woken. It was obvious that Jarrod wasn’t taking care of himself, but Adam couldn’t begrudge him that, he’d done no better lately. Entering the house through the kitchen, Adam spoke with their Chinese cook, “How long before supper, Hop Sing?”
“When Missa Cartwright get home, we eat. You clean up. When you done, you see Hop Sing, have something fo’ friend.”
Puzzled, Adam tilted his head and frowned, “What?”
Hop Sing waved him off as he tended dinner, “Hot water ready in bath. You go clean up. Hop Sing have when you done.” Shaking his head in confusion, Adam knew better than to argue with the man. Hop Sing’s temper was too easily riled and he went to clean up as requested, wondering what the man could possibly have for Jarrod. He returned a half hour later, cleaned up and feeling much refreshed and Hop Sing handed him a small tin about the size of a silver dollar, “You give friend. Make hurt go away.”
Adam’s eyes widened and he looked down at the small man, his heart racing against his will, “How did you know he was hurting?”
“Hop Sing know.” Adam suddenly found a finger being pushed into his chest and Hop Sing chastising him, “You be more careful, he not hurt so much.” His legs wouldn’t hold him up and Adam dropped to the bench behind him, shaking nervously. There was no way Hop Sing could know the truth. The only time he’d even seen Jarrod was when they came into the house. Adam had taken Jarrod to his room and gone outside to work so they’d done nothing to arouse suspicion. This was not happening, not again.
“Missa Adam?” Adam shook himself from his thoughts, forgetting for a moment that Hop Sing was still there. He looked up at the Chinaman and could find no words. It was Hop Sing that spoke again, “In China, such thing not considered bad. Good thing. Pure love. You no worry. Secret safe.” He lowered his voice and spoke with genuine concern as he pointed at the tin in his hand, “Go to friend. Make better.”
A red faced Adam strode towards the door but stopped and turned back, “Thank you, Hop Sing.”
Hop Sing was once again his stern self when he reprimanded the oldest Cartwright son. “You hurry. Supper be ready soon. No on time, no eat. Hop Sing cook, cook, cook. No one appreciate.” Smiling to himself, Adam tightened his grip on the small tin in his hand and went to wake Jarrod for supper.
“Jarrod...wake up!”
Rolling over and stretching, Jarrod grimace in pain and stilled his movements. Adam winced, still guilty about his part in it all. “You still sore?”
Jarrod sat up and leaned forward, still trying to wake himself, “A little.”
Kneeling on the bed, Adam held out the tin. “Hop Sing gave me this. Said it would help.”
Eyes wide and very awake, Jarrod panicked, “Why did you tell him?”
Adam rested his hand on Jarrod’s outstretched leg. “I didn’t tell him anything. He figured it out somehow. The man doesn’t miss anything. He won’t say anything. He was more worried about you than anything we’ve done. In fact he told me to be more careful. I trust him not to say anything, Jarrod.”
Jarrod wasn’t convinced. All he could think of was reliving his worst nightmare all over again, “Are you sure? I can leave Adam. I can stay in town.”
Squeezing his hand, Adam tried to reassure him. “I want you here. We are going to have to learn to deal with this...together.” Just then they heard the heavy slamming of the front door and Jarrod startled. Adam smiled, “It’s my family getting home. Why don’t you use some that and freshen up and I’ll go let them know we have company.”
Nodding, Jarrod shifted to get out of bed and Adam helped him to his feet. Dropping a hand to his hip, Adam leaned in and kissed him. “I’m glad you’re here. Don’t worry so much.”
Kissing him back, Jarrod shoved him towards the door, “You’d better go, before you go missing.”
Adam descended the stairs and was greeted by his father’s booming voice, “Where have you been all day?” Cringing, Adam watched his brother’s make a hasty retreat to the kitchen to clean up and he took a deep breath.
Speaking in a calm voice, Adam was hoping to negate his father’s anger. “Pa, can I talk to ya for minute?”
The approach worked. Ben could see Adam’s concerned look and his anger was forgotten, “What is it, Adam?”
“We have company. A friend of mine came to town last night. I invited him to stay here.” Hoping to deflect too many questions, he tried to explain, “He’s had a tough time the last few months with family and his work. He just needs some time to relax and take care of himself.”
Ben nodded, and asked curiously, “Do we know this friend?”
Adam shook his head, “He a friend from my college days. I hadn’t seen him in years until almost a year ago. I’ve tried to catch up with him when I go to San Francisco.”
Wanting more answers, Ben was stopped from asking any more questions by Jarrod’s presence on the stairs. Adam turned and watched Jarrod descend, happy to see him moving with relative ease. Jarrod turned on his famous charm and advanced on he and his father, “Mr. Cartwright it’s nice to meet you. Adam’s told me a lot about you.” Adam noticed that Jarrod had his left hand tucked into his pocket to hide it from sight. He didn’t realize that Jarrod still felt self-conscious and wondered if it was because of his unease in his father’s presence or something he always did.
Ben shook the young man’s hand, but couldn’t say the same. Adam quickly interjected, “Pa, this is Jarrod Barkley.”
“It’s always a pleasure to meet one of Adam’s friends, Mr. Barkley.”
“Jarrod.”
Hop Sing came out of the kitchen at that moment and barked, “Supper ready. Eat now or it get cold.”
Ben rolled his eyes at his cook’s manners, “I’m sorry but Hop Sing doesn’t take kindly to anyone being late for meals.” He placed a fatherly hand on Jarrod’s back and led him towards the table, “Let’s sit down before he takes the food away and leaves us nothing to eat,” laughed Ben.
Adam led the way and motioned for Jarrod to sit, before he took his own seat beside him. Jarrod sat down tenderly, but didn’t show any obvious pain and Adam sighed inwardly, making a mental note to thank Hop Sing later. Hoss and Little Joe could be heard arguing in the kitchen, but they went silent as they rounded the corner and saw a dinner guest. Adam quickly made introductions as Hop Sing brought in the meal. The men quickly filled their plates and Ben made conversation as they ate, “So Jarrod, Adam says you’re from San Francisco. Do you like it there?”
Smiling as he spoke, Jarrod answered, “It’s where the work is.”
“What do you do?”
“I’m a lawyer, Mr. Cartwright.”
Joe piped in, “You don’t look like a lawyer.”
Ben reprimanded, “Joseph!”
Ducking his head, Joe muttered, “Well he don’t.”
Jarrod laughed at the young man’s impertinence, “Well I normally wear a suit, but it seemed unnecessary for this trip.”
“What brings ya ta the Ponderosa?” asked Hoss, filling his mouth with more food as he waited for an answer.
“Just some rest and relaxation. Adam informed me it was the best place for it.”
Adam marveled at Jarrod’s ease at handling his family and attributed it to his time as a lawyer. His hand slipped beneath the table and gently squeezed Jarrod’s leg. Jarrod turned and making sure no one’s eyes were on them, winked at him. Adam suppressed a snicker realizing he had read Jarrod right and he was playing the game to perfection.
Jarrod found comfort in sitting at the table with family, even if it wasn’t his own. He’d missed the personal time and the occasional bantering. Hoss and Little Joe were a lot like Heath and Nick, if just a little less subtle with their bickering. Ben ruled the meal just as his mother would have, never letting anything get out of hand. The fair wasn’t as fancy perhaps, but it certainly made up for it in taste. The meal was baked chicken cooked to perfection and it literally fell off the bone. Mashed potatoes, rolls and vegetables topped off the meal.
Hop Sing entered and smiled at the empty plates, “You eat good. Get desert now.”
Jarrod’s manners dictated a reply, “May I commend you on an excellent meal Hop Sing.”
“Make just fo’ you. You too skinny. Hop Sing fix you up.” Jarrod turned red and the whole family laughed, used to Hop Sing’s forwardness where food was concerned.
Ben apologized, glaring at Hop Sing as he spoke, “Please forgive him. He takes his job very seriously and that includes bullying our guests.”
Shaking his head, Hop Sing shuffled back to the kitchen, “Not bully. Too skinny. I get dessert.”
Jarrod recovered quickly and grinned, “I suppose a few more pounds wouldn’t hurt. With meals like this one, I don’t think it will be a problem for long.” Dessert was served and as Jarrod picked up his fork to eat, it suddenly dawned on him that he hadn’t had used his knife through the entire meal. His left hand had remained safely beneath the table. He looked at Hop Sing and something told him that it wasn’t a coincidence. He passed a barely discernable nod at the cook and receiving a pleased smile in return, knew he’d guessed right. Adam was right. The man missed nothing.
It was late when Jarrod slipped outside for a smoke and was surprised when Adam joined him a short time later as he wandered to the back porch. “You’re up late.”
“I guess all that sleep today,” shrugged Jarrod. “It’s so quiet out here. Seemed a waste to just lie in bed staring at the ceiling. What are you doing up?”
Moving behind Jarrod, Adam wrapped his arm around his upper chest and held him close. “I heard you moving around. Just making sure you were alright.”
Leaning heavily into Adam, Jarrod enjoyed the closeness, “I’m fine. You should get some sleep.”
Nuzzling Jarrod’s neck, Adam sighed, “You need to find a way to relax.” Lifting Jarrod’s shirt, his hand splayed over his stomach as he breathed huskily in his ear. “I can help you relax.”
Already his body was responding, but fear kept his senses clear enough to pull from Adam’s embrace. Sitting on the porch step, Jarrod shook his head and muttered, “I can’t Adam.”
Adam sat beside him and rested his elbows on his knees, “You alright?”
“I’m fine, I just don’t want to get caught in a compromising situation again.”
“It’s pitch black out here, no one can see anything,” chuckled Adam.
“Well, I’m not sure how well sound travels out here, I don’t trust myself.”
Adam spoke sympathetically, “You don’t need to defend yourself, Jarrod.” His voice dropped, “When Hop Sing talked to me earlier I suddenly understood how difficult it was for you. I felt my whole world drop out from under me, especially thinking about how your family reacted.”
“You have a wonderful family. They remind me of my own in some ways. It’s nice being here.”
“I’m glad you’re enjoying it. You need some time just relaxing...” Adam teased, “and put on some weight. You’re too skinny.”
Jarrod smiled, “My family was always telling me I was getting fat and now that I’ve lost the weight I don’t plan on gaining it all back.”
Adam rested his hand behind Jarrod’s back and his other hand slipped under his shirt again, “I like the way you look, but you really do need to take better care of yourself and that means eating better.”
“That’s calling the kettle black!” Jarrod covered Adam’s hand but didn’t remove it and they sat for a long time just enjoying the closeness. After a time, Adam yawned and hearing it, Jarrod insisted, “Come on. It’s time to get some sleep. After being up all night last night I know you’re exhausted.”
Removing his hand, Adam eased himself to his feet and sighed, “I wish we didn’t have to be apart when you’re here.”
“I know, but we can’t take any chances.”
The two men headed towards the front of the house, but as they rounded the corned, Adam grabbed Jarrod and pulled him into his chest. He leaned in dropping a gentle kiss on his lips, but kept it light afraid he would get carried away with anything more passionate. Jarrod returned it and they broke apart, reluctantly heading to their own beds for the night.