Of course, he was confused and disoriented by the wreck. Maybe his head injury was serious. She untied Ned and, wrapping her fingers in his mane, she swung up to his bare back. Reining Ned around, she paused beside Monroe, extending a hand.
"Can you get up here behind me?"
He eyed the mule's back and grimaced. "I don't know. He's a big one."
She glanced around and spotted a large rock. "Over here."
He climbed on the rock and staggered for a moment until he got his balance. For a moment he eyed the mule with a perplexed expression.
She shoved a hand at him. "Here, let me help you. Ain’t you never rode before?"
His gaze left the mule's back and found hers. "I haven't had much occasion to do so."
She rolled her eyes. "I know, you prefer a car, but Ol' Ned here is more reliable. He knows when to slow down."
Monroe's lips twisted into a sardonic smile. "My car doesn't smell animals near the road, either." He motioned a circle. "Turn him around so I can get my good leg over him first."
Warmth rushed up her neck as she reined Ol' Ned around. Of course he would have more difficulty mounting. He didn't seem self-conscious about the leg, though.
This time when she extended her hand, he grasped it. Throwing a long leg up to Ned's back, he tugged on her hand so hard that it nearly unseated her. He slid behind her, grabbing her waist to keep from sliding off the other side. There was a quick gasp and hot breath on the back of her neck.
"Are you set now?"
"Yes." His fingers gripped her waist for a moment and his forehead touched her shoulder. He groaned.
"Yer not gonna throw up, are ya?" she blurted, and then amended. "I mean, are ya gonna be okay?"
He grunted.
"Well, put your arms round my waist and lean your head on my shoulder."
He followed her instructions. "Thanks. I'm ready now."
She nudged Ol' Ned into a walk and Barrett's arms tightened on her waist. She caught her breath - and a reprimand about him getting too familiar. He was merely trying to keep from falling. She was tempted to give him a reassuring pat on this arm, but thought better of it. The feel of his muscular body against hers brought warmth to her cheeks.
Ma was waiting for them on the porch when they arrived. She took one look at Monroe and gasped.