Rawhide Chapter 10
Title: Rawhide
Author: PetiteMiel
Pairing: Jack/Ennis
Rating: NC-17(eventually)
Warning: Contains harsh language, violence, m/m sexual encounters.
Disclaimer: All characters from Brokeback Mountain belong to Ann Proulx. I am just borrowing them and make no money from their use. No copyright infringement is intended. All other characters are mine.
Summary: Au!Au. This story takes place in 1867. Ennis is an eighteen year old wrangler at the Triple T Ranch in Texas where Jack, a sixteen year old runaway is hired for the upcoming cattle drive to Montana.
AN:This is the first time I've written BBM fanfic. The story is un beta'd so all errors are mine.
Arlene, Texas
Spring, 1867
Ennis woke, the hay scratching against his skin making him itch and he waved his hand across his face brushing it away. He rolled onto his back, the rough, wool blanket tangled beneath him but he didn’t bother to straighten it out just laid back sighing deep. His eyes opened slowly as he ran his hand over them wiping the sleep from his lids as his eyes adjusted to the dim morning light.
He felt rung out and tired, his sleep fitful and his dreams troubled, thoughts of Jack plaguing his mind. He could hear Jack’s words ringing in his ears and he knew they were true. He has said he would be Ennis’ friend always and Ennis cursed himself for not having the strength to say the same. Jack had deserved better.
Running a hand through his hair he sat up then he ran the hand over his face trying to clear his thoughts. He missed Jack’s company and the last couple of days without it had made him realize just how much. He wanted that back, wanted that more then anything but he was still uncertain how to be around Jack feeling the way he did?
Avoiding Jack had certainly not been the answer, if anything his desire for him was stronger now then ever but maybe now that he knew how strong his feelings were he could figure out how to avoid letting things get out of hand. Maybe there was somewhere between not being friends at all and being lovers where he could make it work.
He sighed again as he sat there for another minute thinking on this then climbed to his feet feeling somewhat hopeful but plenty cautious, deciding to take it slow and see where it got him. He hadn’t been able to stand it, not even a little bit so now he would have to try and fix it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jack came off the sorrel hitting the ground hard, his body slamming into the dirt and Ennis winced at the impact hoping Jack wasn’t getting broke instead of the horse. But a second later Jack was rolling out of the way as the animal continued to buck, dancing around the corral and he jumped to his feet retreating to the safety of the fence.
“Hell, I can do better then that.” Billy mumbled spitting into the dirt.
Ennis didn’t respond and Billy turned toward him.
“What? Ya don’t think I can?”
“We’re about to find out.”
Billy just scowled as he climbed up on the fence, K.C. and Walter lassoing the sorrel before stripping off the saddle and leading her into the adjoining corral. He hopped down off the top rail as they brought in a feisty buckskin and he strutted over to the horse, his chaps flapping around his legs as he prepared for his ride.
Ennis stood watching but he wasn’t looking at Billy, his eyes drawn instead to the dark haired boy who was leaning against the rails opposite him. He stared at him, watching as Jack spoke with Josh and Hank, the other two men praising him for the ride he’d just had. Ennis couldn’t help feeling left out, wishing it was him patting Jack on the back but he hadn’t worked up the courage to approach him yet today, his earlier resolve not as firm as he’d hoped.
Then as if he’d heard Ennis’ thoughts Jack looked over at him and there was such hopefulness in his eyes that Ennis couldn’t help but smile back. Jack’s eyes widened in surprise then he smiled too his whole face lighting up, a sight Ennis had feared he’d never see again but was all too glad to be the cause of.
A second later Billy went flying off the buckskin landing beside the rails with a resounding thud. Ennis sighed looking down at him as he climbed to his feet and out of the corral rubbing his backside but Ennis didn’t say a word. Instead he slipped on his gloves and climbed up the fence setting atop it while he waited for the boys to bring in another horse.
They’d been working with the horses most of the morning, branding them as they separating the saddle broke from the rest of the herd. Then Bull, Barnes and Wheeler had taken them out to the pastured lands to get acquainted with the cattle, returning soon after.
They had less then a dozen horses needing to be broke, which suited Ennis just fine. He had never being much for bronco busting, preferring to use a slower means to gentle a horse but with the drive only a few days away they had no choice.
A big chestnut was saddled and standing in the center of the corral as Ennis climbed down off the fence and he glanced once at Jack before approaching the mare. Walter had hold of her bridle while K.C. held a heavy cloth over her eyes keeping the horse under control until Ennis got into the saddle. He nodded once to the men as he took hold of the reins and they let lose of the animal and ran for the hills, jumping onto the fence as they got out of the way.
The horse leapt off the ground her back arched, head down, her whole body rigid as she tried to dislodge her rider but Ennis held on tight his legs flexing around the horses middle, his back bowed slightly as he tried to ride the wild out of her.
She snorted and stomped, her hooves digging into the dirt sending a cloud of dust into the air as she spun sideways jerking Ennis around like a rag doll in a dogs mouth but he didn’t let go. His heels dug in tighter the muscles of his legs aching from the strain; sweat pouring off him as he clenched his jaw determined to show the mare that he was boss.
It was like watching a man ride a lightening bolt and the sight captivated Jack as well as the other men. They stared in awe at the two struggling against one another, holding their breath as they waited to see who would give in first. Moments later the question was answered as the mare’s hooves hit the ground and she pranced forward her hind end bucking slightly as she trotted around the corral before she settled down. Ennis wheeled her to the right then the left taking control then he ran her around the fence line a few times before reining her in.
He climbed out of the saddle, stroking the horse’s neck as he whispered in her ear and the mare snorted, pawing at the ground as she pulled against the reins he still held in his hand. She was half broke at best and he knew it was gonna take more then one ride to rid her of her ornery nature but he was sure she would always have some sass and that was alright with him.
“Damn good ride Ennis.” K.C. said as he walked up taking the reins and leading the horse away. He acknowledged the compliment with a nod then climbed over the fence, the other men slapping him on the back adding their praise.
“That…that was the most amazin’ thing I’ve ever seen.” Jack said looking at him.
“Thank ya.” Ennis replied quietly as the blush rose in his cheeks.
He turned a second later as he reached for the dipper that sat inside the bucket of water they had hung on the post. He took a sip washing the dust from his throat as he noticed Mr. Taylor walking toward them across the yard.
Daniel Taylor was a self made man, having found his fortune in the gold fields of California in forty-nine. He spent the next eighteen years accumulating enough wealth to provide for him and his family without having to work another day in his life.
He was a big man, both tall and wide with a round face and dark eyes. He had salt and pepper hair and a full beard, which made him look even older then his forty-two years. He was honest and kind with an equal portion of intelligence thrown in and not the kind of man you wanted to go up against in business. He had always been generous to the men who worked for him valuing the hard work they put in and the rough life they lived.
“Hell of a ride delMar.” He said without preamble.
“Thank ya Sir.” Ennis replied as he watched the other man approach Jack.
“Mr. Twist, I’m Mr. Taylor.”
“Pleased to meet ya Sir.” Jack said wiping his palm on his pant leg before shaking the other man’s hand.
“My wife tells me that we’re in your debt for saving our little Emily.” He smiled.
“Naw Sir, I just done what anyone would have.”
“Well that’s not the way I heard it. I half expected you to be ten feet tall the way Emily’s gone on about you.”
“Naw Sir.” Jack replied shaking his head, embarrassed by the comment.
“Well regardless, I never let a debt go unpaid and I have been remise in not doing this sooner. How would you like to have that little filly Acorn for your own?”
“What?”
“Red told me you didn’t have a horse so I figure it’s the least I can do.”
“Uh…not that I’m not awful grateful Sir but…but I couldn’t.”
Mr. Taylor put his hand on Jack’s shoulder as he turned him toward the corral.
“Look son, there isn’t any way I could ever truly repay you for what you did. One horse isn’t even gonna come close to what I owe you but it’s something you need and something I’ve got and I’d be much obliged if you’d accept it.”
Jack bit his lip still not sure looking around at the other men then Mr. Taylor leaned closer.
“Besides if I have to tell Caroline I couldn’t get you to take that horse she’s likely to stop feeding me and that’d be an awful hardship for a man who likes his vittles as much as I do.” He laughed patting his expansive belly. Jack laughed too then nodded.
“Alright…thank ya Sir.”
“Good man.” Mr. Taylor said smiling as he slapped Jack on the back before he walked away.
Jack stood there smiling from ear to ear, the other men nodding their approval of Mr. Taylor’s gesture except for Billy who stood leaning against the corral his already sour expression becoming more so.
“Acorn’s a good horse Jack.” Ennis said as he walked up beside him, his natural inclination to be near Jack outweighing his fears at last.
Jack glanced over at him surprised that he was standing there let alone speaking to him and he tried not to let his hopes soar. He didn’t know what it meant but he wanted to believe that maybe Ennis was at least willing to try, that maybe they could salvage something of the friendship they’d had.
“I can’t believe he’d give her to me just like that. I ain’t never hardly owned nothin’.” He replied wanting to keep him talking.
“Well, ya did save his daughter.”
“Yeah I know but…it don’t seem right to take a gift for doing …well… for just doing what’s right.”
“Well maybe not but some folks don’t like to feel beholdin’ to others, it makes um feel uneasy like.”
“Yeah, I guess. She’s gonna be a real good cow horse though. Did you see her out there herdin’ them cows on the roundup Ennis? She was fast and not one of them got away from her, no siree.”
“I think ya mightta had somethin’ to do with that.” He laughed softly at Jack’s excitement.
“Well maybe, but she is a good horse.”
“Yeah she is.” Ennis agreed smiling as he looked away.
Jack continued to stare at him for another moment feeling like noting had changed then he caught sight of Barnes and Billy on the other side of the corral. He watched them talking quiet for a moment, a nagging worry forming in his mind then they both looked up staring straight at him their eyes like rattlers ready to strike. He looked away, feeling like someone had just walked over his grave but he shook the feeling off telling himself he was worrying for nothing. He hadn’t done anything wrong and they couldn’t know what was in his heart so there was no need to fret. Then he took a deep breath and turned his attention to other things praying he wasn’t wrong.
Josh started to climb into the corral to take a turn but before he got half way up the fence Charlie appeared in the bunkhouse doorway.
“Ya’ll come eat your lunch before I throw it out.” He hollered across the yard before limping back inside.
The men turned as one knowing he wouldn’t hesitate to do just that as he’d been in an especially bad mood all day, the pain in his leg giving him fits. Jack turned away though heading in the other direction.
“Ain’t ya gonna eat Jack?” Bull asked.
“I’ll be there in a minute.” He yelled back at him as he ran across the yard, the others smiling after him knowing exactly where he was headed.
When he entered the stable he made his way over to Acorn’s stall and she bobbed her head in greeting. He smiled brushing his hand along her neck then he rubbed his head against her giving her a hug.
“You’re all mine now girl. What do ya think of that?”
The horse snorted, rubbing her head against him making Jack laugh and he rubbed her between the eyes then kissed the end of her nose.
“I done seen it all now.”
Jack looked over seeing Billy and Barnes standing side by side in the middle of the stable.
“What do ya want Billy?” He said eyeing them both warily.
“I want to stop getting’ the short end of the stick. That’s what I want.”
“I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about.”
“Ya walk in here git yourself a job and I’m stuck doin’ fence work for two days.”
“That ain’t my fault!”
“Ya got everybody pattin’ ya on the back tellin’ ya what a good rider ya are. Hell the boss man himself shakin’ your hand and given ya a horse. Shoot next week you’ll probably be runnin’ the place.”
Jack looked at him but didn’t answer just moved to go around them but Billy stepped in his way.
”Huh uh. I ain’t done talkin’ yet.”
“Well I’m done listenin’ now git outta my way.”
“Ya think you’re so damn special but I’m gonna show ya ya ain’t.”
“Oh he’s special alright. Just not the kind of special ya want folks to know about. Ain’t that right boy?” Barnes said sneering at him as he moved a step closer.
Jack swallowed hard looking over at Barnes trying not to let his fear show. His heart was pounding in his chest and he could feel the sweat running down his face but he held his ground.
“That’s right, Barnes here done seen ya chasin’ after Ennis couple nights ago.”
“Didn’t look like he wanted nothin’ to do with ya but maybe I was wrong. The way ya two was actin’ outside last night I’m thinkin’ he might be a filthy queer too.”
“Shut up!” Jack yelled his fists clenched at his side.
“Where I come from we don’t tolerate that sort of perversion and I ain’t gonna tolerate it here neither.”
Barnes took a step toward him but it was Billy who threw the first punch catching Jack off guard and spinning him around. He grabbed the edge of the horse’s stall spitting blood as Billy grabbed at his shoulder pulling him back around aiming to hit him again.
Jack managed to swing at him, his punch landing across his left cheek but Barnes was on him a second later punching him in the gut. He bent over gasping for air then was knocked back on his ass when Barnes hit him with an uppercut to the jaw. Billy came at him again but he reached out sweeping the other man’s legs out from under him knocking him to the ground then Jack rolled out of the way as Barnes tried to get hold of him.
He got to his feet punching Barnes in the face, bloodying his nose but before he could do any more damage Billy was running at him knocking him through the stable door into the yard beyond.
The men in the bunkhouse jumped up from the table hearing the commotion and rushed outside spotting Billy and Jack as they rolled across the compound heading in their direction. Charlie appeared a second later carrying a rifle, not knowing what to expect just as Ennis and K.C. started to jump into the fray but Bull held them back.
“Too late now, best if they just git it outta their system.”
Ennis’ brow creased with worry not liking the idea of doing nothing but he didn’t move any closer just stood where he was, his jaw set and his hands clenching and unclenching at his sides.
Barnes stepped out of the stable about that time, wiping at his bloody nose and the men wondered whose side he was on. The question was answered a moment later when Jack went down on his knees and Barnes went to kick him in the gut. He never got the chance though as Jack grabbed hold of the wooden bucket setting by the pump and swung it at him hitting him in the face. The other men flinched at the blow watching Barnes hit the ground hard just as Billy pounced on Jack.
They wrestled around Jack finally knocking the other man onto his back stopping him before he could throw another punch. Then he crawled to his feet Billy already up on his and he managed to dodge the fist that came at his head throwing a punch of his own. It hit Billy right in the nose blood splattering them both and Billy sat down in the dirt looking dazed. Jack was on him in seconds throwing another punch as Barnes got to his knees reaching for the knife he had stuck in his boot.
Ennis grabbed the Winchester out of Charlie’s hands, working the lever as he walked up behind Barnes, the other man freezing where he was as the barrel came to rest at the back of his head.
“I wouldn’t recommend that.”
The knife fell into the dirt, Barnes’ hands raised beside him not wanting to give Ennis a reason to shoot.
Jack staggered to his feet then, swallowing hard as he moved away from Billy leaving him laying on the ground barely moving, his face as red as his kerchief ever was. He glanced toward Ennis then fell against the pump using it for support.
“What the Hell is goin’ on here!” Red roared as he rode into the compound reining in his mount. He was met with silence all eyes turning toward him then they all started talking at once.
“Well it was two against one Red.”
“Billy’s had it in for Jack since he got here and…”
“Barnes had a knife and Ennis, he was just…”
“Alright, shut up!”
Red moved his horse passed Billy frowning down at the man, a disgusted look on his face then he stopped in front of Jack.
“That right, Jack? It two against one like the others say?”
Jack just nodded as he looked up at him, breathing hard.
“They start it?”
“Yes Sir.” Jack answered staring him in the eye.
Red stared back him then turned and rode over to Barnes where he still knelt on the ground. Ennis stepped back pulling the rifle away then handed it back to Charlie who just nodded in return.
Red looked down at the other man and spit before reaching into his pants pocket. He dropped some coins into the dirt Barnes looking up at him, his eyes cold.
“What’s this?”
“Your wages. I didn’t hire ya to come here and make trouble now git your stuff, take your money and go.”
“Now that ain’t right. Ya gonna fire me and let that…”
“I said take your money and go.” Red repeated, cutting the other man off as he slipped his pistol from its holster and aimed it at the other man’s gut.
Barnes looked at the gun, swallowing hard then huffed loudly as he reached out for the coins and his knife before getting to his feet. He headed toward the bunkhouse Wheeler following after him as Red put the colt away.
“Josh, ya go saddle his horse.”
“Sure enough.”
“God Damn it! What am I supposed to do now?” Wheeler hissed as Barnes gathered his meager belongings from off his bunk.
“Just what we agreed. Ain’t nothing changed.” He snarled back as he headed out the door pushing his way passed the others to his horse.
Wheeler stood glaring after him, his jaw clenched shaking his head as Barnes rode out of the compound the other men saying good riddance, feeling any man that would fight dirty didn’t deserve no better then what he’d got.
Upon his departure Red stepped down from his horse and walked over picking up the bucket that lay on its side in the dirt. He filled it with water from the trough then walked over to Billy who still lay on the ground. He threw the water in his face, Billy sitting up sputtering and coughing as he wiped a hand over his eyes.
“Ya know I aught to fire ya right?”
Billy looked up at Red nodding but he didn’t say a word.
“I don’t cotton to no fightin’ between the men but ya been here four months and proved ya can do the job so I’m gonna give ya one more chance. But I swear to God Billy if I git any more trouble out of ya I will leave your sorry ass in the Badlands and I won’t look back. Ya understand me?”
“Yeah Red, I understand. Won’t have no more trouble out of me. I’m…I’m done.” He said getting to his feet.
“You’re just lucky I need all the men I can git or I might not be feeling so generous. Now go on and git yourself cleaned up.”
Billy walked away the other men returning to the bunkhouse, Bull smiling as K.C. handed him the two dollars he owed him as they stepped inside.
“Jack.”
“Yes Sir.” He answered looking over at Red.
“I don’t know what all went on here but I can’t fault a man for defendin’ himself when it’s two against one.”
“So…so I ain’t fired?” He asked warily.
“Ya ain’t fired but…lets not make a habit of this.”
“Naw Sir.” He said trying to smile, the sting from his split lip making him hiss.
“Boy we’re gonna have to break ya of that habit one of these days.”
“Yes Sir..I…I mean Red.”
“Go on git cleaned up.”
“Thank ya.”
“Sure enough.” Red said as he headed for the bunkhouse.
Jack turned back to the pump, lifting the handle several times, the water pouring out cold and clear. Then he reached under the spray splashing it on his face and neck wiping away the sweat, blood and grime. He took several mouthfuls quenching his thirst with the cool water, easing the pain in his busted lip then he turned heading back to the stable once more.
When he got inside he sat down on a bale of hay, elbows on his knees, his head in his hands. He could feel himself trembling inside, the fear he had felt finally coming to the fore. He had never hit anyone in his life, always having been on the receiving end and he didn’t think he liked this side of it any better then the other.
He took several deep breaths trying to calm his nerves telling himself that with Barnes gone the danger was over. Billy would never make trouble for him now and even if he told someone the things Barnes had said about Ennis and him they’d never believe him. Billy had thrown in his lot with a man who fought dirty and that wouldn’t recommend him much to the rest of the men. Anything he said about Jack now was likely to be seen as sour grapes. Still his careless gesture by the corral the night before had put him at risk and what was worse it had put Ennis at risk too. He sighed running a shaky hand through his hair finally understanding the fear Ennis had felt for him.
Then as if his thoughts had conjured the man he looked up to see Ennis walking toward him.
“Ya alright?”
“Yeah.” Jack said nodding.
“Didn’t git ya too bad. Gonna have a bruise there on your cheek though.” Ennis said reaching out to touch Jack’s face, his fingers barely brushing against the skin before he pulled his hand back.
“Uh…Charlie heated up some food for ya if you want it.”
“Alright.” Jack said not sure what to make of what of Ennis’ behavior.
Ennis stared at him for another second as if he was gonna say something more then nodded and turned to leave.
“Thanks for your help.” Jack said as he got to his feet, Ennis turning back toward him.
“I didn’t do nothin’.”
“If ya hadn’t stopped Barnes he mightta killed me with that knife.”
“Ya woulda done the same for me.”
“Yeah, but…it’s…it’s just nice knowing I got someone watching out for me is all. It’s safer watching each other’s backs. Don’t ya think?”
“Yeah, probably so.”
They stood there staring at one another not speaking both trying to convey what they were feeling with their eyes alone. Then Ennis cleared his throat.
“Well…better git going. Don’t want to make Charlie heat that food again he’s already in a piss poor mood.”
“ Ennis.”
“What?” He answered looking over his shoulder.
“Just…thanks again.”
“That’s what friends are for Jack.”
“Are we friends?” He asked that hopeful look in his eyes once more.
Ennis stared at him for a moment knowing he might be making a big mistake but deciding he didn’t care any more. Then he smiled at him and nodded his head.
“Yeah Jack, always.”
TBC
Author: PetiteMiel
Pairing: Jack/Ennis
Rating: NC-17(eventually)
Warning: Contains harsh language, violence, m/m sexual encounters.
Disclaimer: All characters from Brokeback Mountain belong to Ann Proulx. I am just borrowing them and make no money from their use. No copyright infringement is intended. All other characters are mine.
Summary: Au!Au. This story takes place in 1867. Ennis is an eighteen year old wrangler at the Triple T Ranch in Texas where Jack, a sixteen year old runaway is hired for the upcoming cattle drive to Montana.
AN:This is the first time I've written BBM fanfic. The story is un beta'd so all errors are mine.
Arlene, Texas
Spring, 1867
Ennis woke, the hay scratching against his skin making him itch and he waved his hand across his face brushing it away. He rolled onto his back, the rough, wool blanket tangled beneath him but he didn’t bother to straighten it out just laid back sighing deep. His eyes opened slowly as he ran his hand over them wiping the sleep from his lids as his eyes adjusted to the dim morning light.
He felt rung out and tired, his sleep fitful and his dreams troubled, thoughts of Jack plaguing his mind. He could hear Jack’s words ringing in his ears and he knew they were true. He has said he would be Ennis’ friend always and Ennis cursed himself for not having the strength to say the same. Jack had deserved better.
Running a hand through his hair he sat up then he ran the hand over his face trying to clear his thoughts. He missed Jack’s company and the last couple of days without it had made him realize just how much. He wanted that back, wanted that more then anything but he was still uncertain how to be around Jack feeling the way he did?
Avoiding Jack had certainly not been the answer, if anything his desire for him was stronger now then ever but maybe now that he knew how strong his feelings were he could figure out how to avoid letting things get out of hand. Maybe there was somewhere between not being friends at all and being lovers where he could make it work.
He sighed again as he sat there for another minute thinking on this then climbed to his feet feeling somewhat hopeful but plenty cautious, deciding to take it slow and see where it got him. He hadn’t been able to stand it, not even a little bit so now he would have to try and fix it.
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Jack came off the sorrel hitting the ground hard, his body slamming into the dirt and Ennis winced at the impact hoping Jack wasn’t getting broke instead of the horse. But a second later Jack was rolling out of the way as the animal continued to buck, dancing around the corral and he jumped to his feet retreating to the safety of the fence.
“Hell, I can do better then that.” Billy mumbled spitting into the dirt.
Ennis didn’t respond and Billy turned toward him.
“What? Ya don’t think I can?”
“We’re about to find out.”
Billy just scowled as he climbed up on the fence, K.C. and Walter lassoing the sorrel before stripping off the saddle and leading her into the adjoining corral. He hopped down off the top rail as they brought in a feisty buckskin and he strutted over to the horse, his chaps flapping around his legs as he prepared for his ride.
Ennis stood watching but he wasn’t looking at Billy, his eyes drawn instead to the dark haired boy who was leaning against the rails opposite him. He stared at him, watching as Jack spoke with Josh and Hank, the other two men praising him for the ride he’d just had. Ennis couldn’t help feeling left out, wishing it was him patting Jack on the back but he hadn’t worked up the courage to approach him yet today, his earlier resolve not as firm as he’d hoped.
Then as if he’d heard Ennis’ thoughts Jack looked over at him and there was such hopefulness in his eyes that Ennis couldn’t help but smile back. Jack’s eyes widened in surprise then he smiled too his whole face lighting up, a sight Ennis had feared he’d never see again but was all too glad to be the cause of.
A second later Billy went flying off the buckskin landing beside the rails with a resounding thud. Ennis sighed looking down at him as he climbed to his feet and out of the corral rubbing his backside but Ennis didn’t say a word. Instead he slipped on his gloves and climbed up the fence setting atop it while he waited for the boys to bring in another horse.
They’d been working with the horses most of the morning, branding them as they separating the saddle broke from the rest of the herd. Then Bull, Barnes and Wheeler had taken them out to the pastured lands to get acquainted with the cattle, returning soon after.
They had less then a dozen horses needing to be broke, which suited Ennis just fine. He had never being much for bronco busting, preferring to use a slower means to gentle a horse but with the drive only a few days away they had no choice.
A big chestnut was saddled and standing in the center of the corral as Ennis climbed down off the fence and he glanced once at Jack before approaching the mare. Walter had hold of her bridle while K.C. held a heavy cloth over her eyes keeping the horse under control until Ennis got into the saddle. He nodded once to the men as he took hold of the reins and they let lose of the animal and ran for the hills, jumping onto the fence as they got out of the way.
The horse leapt off the ground her back arched, head down, her whole body rigid as she tried to dislodge her rider but Ennis held on tight his legs flexing around the horses middle, his back bowed slightly as he tried to ride the wild out of her.
She snorted and stomped, her hooves digging into the dirt sending a cloud of dust into the air as she spun sideways jerking Ennis around like a rag doll in a dogs mouth but he didn’t let go. His heels dug in tighter the muscles of his legs aching from the strain; sweat pouring off him as he clenched his jaw determined to show the mare that he was boss.
It was like watching a man ride a lightening bolt and the sight captivated Jack as well as the other men. They stared in awe at the two struggling against one another, holding their breath as they waited to see who would give in first. Moments later the question was answered as the mare’s hooves hit the ground and she pranced forward her hind end bucking slightly as she trotted around the corral before she settled down. Ennis wheeled her to the right then the left taking control then he ran her around the fence line a few times before reining her in.
He climbed out of the saddle, stroking the horse’s neck as he whispered in her ear and the mare snorted, pawing at the ground as she pulled against the reins he still held in his hand. She was half broke at best and he knew it was gonna take more then one ride to rid her of her ornery nature but he was sure she would always have some sass and that was alright with him.
“Damn good ride Ennis.” K.C. said as he walked up taking the reins and leading the horse away. He acknowledged the compliment with a nod then climbed over the fence, the other men slapping him on the back adding their praise.
“That…that was the most amazin’ thing I’ve ever seen.” Jack said looking at him.
“Thank ya.” Ennis replied quietly as the blush rose in his cheeks.
He turned a second later as he reached for the dipper that sat inside the bucket of water they had hung on the post. He took a sip washing the dust from his throat as he noticed Mr. Taylor walking toward them across the yard.
Daniel Taylor was a self made man, having found his fortune in the gold fields of California in forty-nine. He spent the next eighteen years accumulating enough wealth to provide for him and his family without having to work another day in his life.
He was a big man, both tall and wide with a round face and dark eyes. He had salt and pepper hair and a full beard, which made him look even older then his forty-two years. He was honest and kind with an equal portion of intelligence thrown in and not the kind of man you wanted to go up against in business. He had always been generous to the men who worked for him valuing the hard work they put in and the rough life they lived.
“Hell of a ride delMar.” He said without preamble.
“Thank ya Sir.” Ennis replied as he watched the other man approach Jack.
“Mr. Twist, I’m Mr. Taylor.”
“Pleased to meet ya Sir.” Jack said wiping his palm on his pant leg before shaking the other man’s hand.
“My wife tells me that we’re in your debt for saving our little Emily.” He smiled.
“Naw Sir, I just done what anyone would have.”
“Well that’s not the way I heard it. I half expected you to be ten feet tall the way Emily’s gone on about you.”
“Naw Sir.” Jack replied shaking his head, embarrassed by the comment.
“Well regardless, I never let a debt go unpaid and I have been remise in not doing this sooner. How would you like to have that little filly Acorn for your own?”
“What?”
“Red told me you didn’t have a horse so I figure it’s the least I can do.”
“Uh…not that I’m not awful grateful Sir but…but I couldn’t.”
Mr. Taylor put his hand on Jack’s shoulder as he turned him toward the corral.
“Look son, there isn’t any way I could ever truly repay you for what you did. One horse isn’t even gonna come close to what I owe you but it’s something you need and something I’ve got and I’d be much obliged if you’d accept it.”
Jack bit his lip still not sure looking around at the other men then Mr. Taylor leaned closer.
“Besides if I have to tell Caroline I couldn’t get you to take that horse she’s likely to stop feeding me and that’d be an awful hardship for a man who likes his vittles as much as I do.” He laughed patting his expansive belly. Jack laughed too then nodded.
“Alright…thank ya Sir.”
“Good man.” Mr. Taylor said smiling as he slapped Jack on the back before he walked away.
Jack stood there smiling from ear to ear, the other men nodding their approval of Mr. Taylor’s gesture except for Billy who stood leaning against the corral his already sour expression becoming more so.
“Acorn’s a good horse Jack.” Ennis said as he walked up beside him, his natural inclination to be near Jack outweighing his fears at last.
Jack glanced over at him surprised that he was standing there let alone speaking to him and he tried not to let his hopes soar. He didn’t know what it meant but he wanted to believe that maybe Ennis was at least willing to try, that maybe they could salvage something of the friendship they’d had.
“I can’t believe he’d give her to me just like that. I ain’t never hardly owned nothin’.” He replied wanting to keep him talking.
“Well, ya did save his daughter.”
“Yeah I know but…it don’t seem right to take a gift for doing …well… for just doing what’s right.”
“Well maybe not but some folks don’t like to feel beholdin’ to others, it makes um feel uneasy like.”
“Yeah, I guess. She’s gonna be a real good cow horse though. Did you see her out there herdin’ them cows on the roundup Ennis? She was fast and not one of them got away from her, no siree.”
“I think ya mightta had somethin’ to do with that.” He laughed softly at Jack’s excitement.
“Well maybe, but she is a good horse.”
“Yeah she is.” Ennis agreed smiling as he looked away.
Jack continued to stare at him for another moment feeling like noting had changed then he caught sight of Barnes and Billy on the other side of the corral. He watched them talking quiet for a moment, a nagging worry forming in his mind then they both looked up staring straight at him their eyes like rattlers ready to strike. He looked away, feeling like someone had just walked over his grave but he shook the feeling off telling himself he was worrying for nothing. He hadn’t done anything wrong and they couldn’t know what was in his heart so there was no need to fret. Then he took a deep breath and turned his attention to other things praying he wasn’t wrong.
Josh started to climb into the corral to take a turn but before he got half way up the fence Charlie appeared in the bunkhouse doorway.
“Ya’ll come eat your lunch before I throw it out.” He hollered across the yard before limping back inside.
The men turned as one knowing he wouldn’t hesitate to do just that as he’d been in an especially bad mood all day, the pain in his leg giving him fits. Jack turned away though heading in the other direction.
“Ain’t ya gonna eat Jack?” Bull asked.
“I’ll be there in a minute.” He yelled back at him as he ran across the yard, the others smiling after him knowing exactly where he was headed.
When he entered the stable he made his way over to Acorn’s stall and she bobbed her head in greeting. He smiled brushing his hand along her neck then he rubbed his head against her giving her a hug.
“You’re all mine now girl. What do ya think of that?”
The horse snorted, rubbing her head against him making Jack laugh and he rubbed her between the eyes then kissed the end of her nose.
“I done seen it all now.”
Jack looked over seeing Billy and Barnes standing side by side in the middle of the stable.
“What do ya want Billy?” He said eyeing them both warily.
“I want to stop getting’ the short end of the stick. That’s what I want.”
“I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about.”
“Ya walk in here git yourself a job and I’m stuck doin’ fence work for two days.”
“That ain’t my fault!”
“Ya got everybody pattin’ ya on the back tellin’ ya what a good rider ya are. Hell the boss man himself shakin’ your hand and given ya a horse. Shoot next week you’ll probably be runnin’ the place.”
Jack looked at him but didn’t answer just moved to go around them but Billy stepped in his way.
”Huh uh. I ain’t done talkin’ yet.”
“Well I’m done listenin’ now git outta my way.”
“Ya think you’re so damn special but I’m gonna show ya ya ain’t.”
“Oh he’s special alright. Just not the kind of special ya want folks to know about. Ain’t that right boy?” Barnes said sneering at him as he moved a step closer.
Jack swallowed hard looking over at Barnes trying not to let his fear show. His heart was pounding in his chest and he could feel the sweat running down his face but he held his ground.
“That’s right, Barnes here done seen ya chasin’ after Ennis couple nights ago.”
“Didn’t look like he wanted nothin’ to do with ya but maybe I was wrong. The way ya two was actin’ outside last night I’m thinkin’ he might be a filthy queer too.”
“Shut up!” Jack yelled his fists clenched at his side.
“Where I come from we don’t tolerate that sort of perversion and I ain’t gonna tolerate it here neither.”
Barnes took a step toward him but it was Billy who threw the first punch catching Jack off guard and spinning him around. He grabbed the edge of the horse’s stall spitting blood as Billy grabbed at his shoulder pulling him back around aiming to hit him again.
Jack managed to swing at him, his punch landing across his left cheek but Barnes was on him a second later punching him in the gut. He bent over gasping for air then was knocked back on his ass when Barnes hit him with an uppercut to the jaw. Billy came at him again but he reached out sweeping the other man’s legs out from under him knocking him to the ground then Jack rolled out of the way as Barnes tried to get hold of him.
He got to his feet punching Barnes in the face, bloodying his nose but before he could do any more damage Billy was running at him knocking him through the stable door into the yard beyond.
The men in the bunkhouse jumped up from the table hearing the commotion and rushed outside spotting Billy and Jack as they rolled across the compound heading in their direction. Charlie appeared a second later carrying a rifle, not knowing what to expect just as Ennis and K.C. started to jump into the fray but Bull held them back.
“Too late now, best if they just git it outta their system.”
Ennis’ brow creased with worry not liking the idea of doing nothing but he didn’t move any closer just stood where he was, his jaw set and his hands clenching and unclenching at his sides.
Barnes stepped out of the stable about that time, wiping at his bloody nose and the men wondered whose side he was on. The question was answered a moment later when Jack went down on his knees and Barnes went to kick him in the gut. He never got the chance though as Jack grabbed hold of the wooden bucket setting by the pump and swung it at him hitting him in the face. The other men flinched at the blow watching Barnes hit the ground hard just as Billy pounced on Jack.
They wrestled around Jack finally knocking the other man onto his back stopping him before he could throw another punch. Then he crawled to his feet Billy already up on his and he managed to dodge the fist that came at his head throwing a punch of his own. It hit Billy right in the nose blood splattering them both and Billy sat down in the dirt looking dazed. Jack was on him in seconds throwing another punch as Barnes got to his knees reaching for the knife he had stuck in his boot.
Ennis grabbed the Winchester out of Charlie’s hands, working the lever as he walked up behind Barnes, the other man freezing where he was as the barrel came to rest at the back of his head.
“I wouldn’t recommend that.”
The knife fell into the dirt, Barnes’ hands raised beside him not wanting to give Ennis a reason to shoot.
Jack staggered to his feet then, swallowing hard as he moved away from Billy leaving him laying on the ground barely moving, his face as red as his kerchief ever was. He glanced toward Ennis then fell against the pump using it for support.
“What the Hell is goin’ on here!” Red roared as he rode into the compound reining in his mount. He was met with silence all eyes turning toward him then they all started talking at once.
“Well it was two against one Red.”
“Billy’s had it in for Jack since he got here and…”
“Barnes had a knife and Ennis, he was just…”
“Alright, shut up!”
Red moved his horse passed Billy frowning down at the man, a disgusted look on his face then he stopped in front of Jack.
“That right, Jack? It two against one like the others say?”
Jack just nodded as he looked up at him, breathing hard.
“They start it?”
“Yes Sir.” Jack answered staring him in the eye.
Red stared back him then turned and rode over to Barnes where he still knelt on the ground. Ennis stepped back pulling the rifle away then handed it back to Charlie who just nodded in return.
Red looked down at the other man and spit before reaching into his pants pocket. He dropped some coins into the dirt Barnes looking up at him, his eyes cold.
“What’s this?”
“Your wages. I didn’t hire ya to come here and make trouble now git your stuff, take your money and go.”
“Now that ain’t right. Ya gonna fire me and let that…”
“I said take your money and go.” Red repeated, cutting the other man off as he slipped his pistol from its holster and aimed it at the other man’s gut.
Barnes looked at the gun, swallowing hard then huffed loudly as he reached out for the coins and his knife before getting to his feet. He headed toward the bunkhouse Wheeler following after him as Red put the colt away.
“Josh, ya go saddle his horse.”
“Sure enough.”
“God Damn it! What am I supposed to do now?” Wheeler hissed as Barnes gathered his meager belongings from off his bunk.
“Just what we agreed. Ain’t nothing changed.” He snarled back as he headed out the door pushing his way passed the others to his horse.
Wheeler stood glaring after him, his jaw clenched shaking his head as Barnes rode out of the compound the other men saying good riddance, feeling any man that would fight dirty didn’t deserve no better then what he’d got.
Upon his departure Red stepped down from his horse and walked over picking up the bucket that lay on its side in the dirt. He filled it with water from the trough then walked over to Billy who still lay on the ground. He threw the water in his face, Billy sitting up sputtering and coughing as he wiped a hand over his eyes.
“Ya know I aught to fire ya right?”
Billy looked up at Red nodding but he didn’t say a word.
“I don’t cotton to no fightin’ between the men but ya been here four months and proved ya can do the job so I’m gonna give ya one more chance. But I swear to God Billy if I git any more trouble out of ya I will leave your sorry ass in the Badlands and I won’t look back. Ya understand me?”
“Yeah Red, I understand. Won’t have no more trouble out of me. I’m…I’m done.” He said getting to his feet.
“You’re just lucky I need all the men I can git or I might not be feeling so generous. Now go on and git yourself cleaned up.”
Billy walked away the other men returning to the bunkhouse, Bull smiling as K.C. handed him the two dollars he owed him as they stepped inside.
“Jack.”
“Yes Sir.” He answered looking over at Red.
“I don’t know what all went on here but I can’t fault a man for defendin’ himself when it’s two against one.”
“So…so I ain’t fired?” He asked warily.
“Ya ain’t fired but…lets not make a habit of this.”
“Naw Sir.” He said trying to smile, the sting from his split lip making him hiss.
“Boy we’re gonna have to break ya of that habit one of these days.”
“Yes Sir..I…I mean Red.”
“Go on git cleaned up.”
“Thank ya.”
“Sure enough.” Red said as he headed for the bunkhouse.
Jack turned back to the pump, lifting the handle several times, the water pouring out cold and clear. Then he reached under the spray splashing it on his face and neck wiping away the sweat, blood and grime. He took several mouthfuls quenching his thirst with the cool water, easing the pain in his busted lip then he turned heading back to the stable once more.
When he got inside he sat down on a bale of hay, elbows on his knees, his head in his hands. He could feel himself trembling inside, the fear he had felt finally coming to the fore. He had never hit anyone in his life, always having been on the receiving end and he didn’t think he liked this side of it any better then the other.
He took several deep breaths trying to calm his nerves telling himself that with Barnes gone the danger was over. Billy would never make trouble for him now and even if he told someone the things Barnes had said about Ennis and him they’d never believe him. Billy had thrown in his lot with a man who fought dirty and that wouldn’t recommend him much to the rest of the men. Anything he said about Jack now was likely to be seen as sour grapes. Still his careless gesture by the corral the night before had put him at risk and what was worse it had put Ennis at risk too. He sighed running a shaky hand through his hair finally understanding the fear Ennis had felt for him.
Then as if his thoughts had conjured the man he looked up to see Ennis walking toward him.
“Ya alright?”
“Yeah.” Jack said nodding.
“Didn’t git ya too bad. Gonna have a bruise there on your cheek though.” Ennis said reaching out to touch Jack’s face, his fingers barely brushing against the skin before he pulled his hand back.
“Uh…Charlie heated up some food for ya if you want it.”
“Alright.” Jack said not sure what to make of what of Ennis’ behavior.
Ennis stared at him for another second as if he was gonna say something more then nodded and turned to leave.
“Thanks for your help.” Jack said as he got to his feet, Ennis turning back toward him.
“I didn’t do nothin’.”
“If ya hadn’t stopped Barnes he mightta killed me with that knife.”
“Ya woulda done the same for me.”
“Yeah, but…it’s…it’s just nice knowing I got someone watching out for me is all. It’s safer watching each other’s backs. Don’t ya think?”
“Yeah, probably so.”
They stood there staring at one another not speaking both trying to convey what they were feeling with their eyes alone. Then Ennis cleared his throat.
“Well…better git going. Don’t want to make Charlie heat that food again he’s already in a piss poor mood.”
“ Ennis.”
“What?” He answered looking over his shoulder.
“Just…thanks again.”
“That’s what friends are for Jack.”
“Are we friends?” He asked that hopeful look in his eyes once more.
Ennis stared at him for a moment knowing he might be making a big mistake but deciding he didn’t care any more. Then he smiled at him and nodded his head.
“Yeah Jack, always.”
TBC