Sunday Snippet: Youth Is Overrated

The winter blast is still underway. I'd love to send some of our precipitation out to California to combat the wildfires burning LA right now. Another 3-5 inches of snow in the next day or so. Thankfully, I don't have to really go out for anything until the end of the week.

I made progress on my side project. I have a few more things to upload and some links to get set, then I'll hopefully be ready to launch. I also did some future planning on what manuscripts to focus on next. At least it's movement!

Very light work week again. Still working on the readthrough for my friend and I completed a manuscript proofread. Hoping to have another new one to get started on this week.

Not a bad week for viewing. I had some distractions but nothing major. I also think I've found the next show I want to watch on one of my streamers.

Finished up the premier episode of London Kills. This is definitely going to be a wild season. Can't wait to see more.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. Kind of sad to see JP leaving but excited to see what happens next. Marlon is growing on me so that's a good thing.

Started the spinoff Beyond Paradise and enjoyed the opening episode. I'm interested to see where things go with Humphrey and Martha. Not sure about Martha's mom. So far, not a fan. I do love the team and look forward to more interactions with them.

Watched another episode of Elementary. Enjoyed the dynamic with the Sherlock regular, the math guy. Also kind of enjoyed the Joan and Kitty scenes. I'm not sure what's going on with Kitty but I don't think she's really committed to the group therapy thing. We'll see if I'm right about that…

Finished up the second part of the opening episodes of Batman Beyond. I'm excited about this rewatch. The theme song alone makes it worth another visit to this one.

Enjoyed another Classic Rugrats episode. This one was the launch of All Growed Up and I hadn't seen the bookend with the original babies. Such a fun episode.

Also finished up an episode of Peak Practice, which I ended up liking. Will is still a bit of a prat but and I really, really dislike the finance guy, but overall, this ended up being a great episode.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Youth Is Overrated, a novella that explores a mature couple's origin story when one of their offspring needs some advice.

Here's the miniblurb:

Tatum Moore and Fisher Vogler have three grown children and their oldest is considering divorce. When he seeks advice from his parents, they try not to interfere but provide insight into a passionate opposites-attract marriage and how to make it work.

And a snippety peek…

Fisher grabbed his coffee and sat at the table. The next part would take some explaining.

Jamie leaned forward. "Don't leave me hanging. What did you do?"

Tatum glanced Fisher's way. Her signal that the narration would continue with him.

He met Jamie's gaze. "Your mom dumped my ass and left town for six months." She completely noped out of their relationship.

Jamie's eyes bugged out. "You're kidding me."

Tatum head jerked back and forth. "Hm-mm. I signed on with a traveling theater group, packed up my shit, and let my lease expire." She paused a moment. "But I didn't stay gone. I came back and showed up on your dad's doorstep." She glanced up and lifted her chin. "Tell him."

Fisher replayed that time in his mind. He'd wanted nothing to do with Tatum but couldn't say no when she needed a place to crash. Her crew dumped her when she got tangled up in a beef with the stage manager. The guy also acted as the production manager and signed their paychecks.

Fisher shook his head when she got settled in on his couch for the night. "Why did you come back?" He'd just started moving forward with his life again.

Tatum answered quietly. "I left a piece of myself here with you."

Fisher threw a hand up. "Then why did you leave?" She didn't make sense.

She jumped up and paced back and forth, wearing one of his Shaunessey's T-shirts and a pair of his boxers. "Because I had to see—to know—if what we have is real. I needed to be on my own with no influence—or sex—from you to do it." She stopped moving and pinned him with a horrified look. "Shit. Did you find someone else?" Her eyes were wide and fearful.

Fisher snorted. "No. I tried. Been through a dozen false starts. But no, nobody new because I kept comparing them to you."

This one is a challenge but I'm very happy with how it's coming together.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Your Move

Hello 2025. I truly hope this year is better than I expect it will be.

I have some goals for this year, and one is to finally launch my side project. I've been putting it off, and I think I finally figured out why. Instead of FOMO, fear of missing out, I have FOFU, fear of fucking up or, a kinder version, FOMU, fear of messing up. I need to get over that.

We're under a winter weather advisory and I have to leave super early in the morning to pick my oldest up from work. I'm debating whether I should fill up my tank now or just wait and do it on the way. We're only supposed to have an inch of snow, but I'm not sure about the freezing rain and ice. I'll monitor and decide soon.

Very light work week. I'm working on a readthrough of a series for a friend and I'm so excited for this project! I'm also hoping I have some new work starting this week. I have tentative dates in my calendar, but nothing set yet.

Had an okay week of viewing. I've been in a weird mood and haven't been watching as much as I could have. That said, I have been getting a lot of writing done so I'm not complaining.

Caught another episode of Elementary. Much happier with where Joan and Sherlock in this episode. The vibe is very different from the first two seasons, and I think I'm okay with that.

I started a Batman Beyond rewatch. I have a lot of love for this show and look forward to diving back in again.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats. Once again, I didn't remember either of the vignettes, so I had fun watching.

Watched an episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. I hadn't seen any of this one and thoroughly enjoyed it. I think there's one episode left, and I'll have to find a new show to watch.

Almost through the season three premiere episode of London Kills. This could end up being a wild ride. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Your Move, a novella that reunites a couple for a second-chance romance.

Here's the miniblurb:

Reilly Mounts returns to her hometown after an impulsive marriage and a divorce that's turning ugly. Caden Bromley, her high school flame, wants to pick up where they left off, but Reilly needs some time to figure out where he fits in her life … and she has to deal with her soon-to-be ex.

And a snippety peek…

Reilly plunged the mop into the soapy, hot water then swiped it over the faded vinyl flooring in the kitchen. "Nothing like a good old-fashioned clean out when I've got a lot to think about." Deep cleaning often helped corral the chaos in her mind.

She looked at the house she grew up in with new eyes. The place needed some major TLC. Some could be accomplished with cosmetic updates, new paint, some throw rugs, and a good polishing of the woodwork. She had the blueprint of how she wanted to display her product line in the two front rooms of the house. A small bedroom would transform into a treatment and consultation area and the kitchen would be for personal use. The small bathroom would be for clients if needed. The large room adjacent to the kitchen would eventually become a meeting area for classes and projects.

Reilly paused by the basement door. "I'll bring the downstairs kitchen up to code to make my product." Her gram used the space to can vegetables, make jam and jelly, and do all her holiday baking.

She dipped the mop back into the water again and started on another area of the floor. A rapid series of knocks sounded on the back door. Propping the mop against the wall, she carefully crossed the damp floor to answer. Twisting the knob, she tried to pull the door open, but the latch got stuck.

Sighing, she jiggled the knob. "Hang on. Give me one second." She yanked hard and the door jerked open to reveal Caden on the other side. "Um, hi." Equal parts surprised and embarrassed at the state of the house, she tilted her head. "Sorry. The door keeps getting stuck."

His lips twisted in a wry grin. "I can fix that. Hold on." He made a quick jaunt out to his truck and started back with a tool belt draped over his shoulder and small roll-up bag.

Reilly closed her eyes, letting memories wash over her. Her very first kiss had been on the covered patio. And Caden had been the one to provide the lip-lock. She took a moment to cherish that remembrance then focused on the here and now.

Caden set the bag aside and strapped the toolbelt around his waist. "This shouldn't take long." He pulled a screwdriver from its notch and started unscrewing the metal plate.

Reilly observed his actions, filing them away for later use. "Thanks. You really didn't have to do this." She leaned against the counter. "What brings you here?" Not that she minded having him drop by … she just hadn't expected to see him again today.

Caden glanced up from his work. "Got a hold of Cam. Said he'd call you on his way home and find room in his schedule to see you." He removed the metal plate and stopped down to look at the wood. "Gonna need to put an anchor in here. The wood isn't holding the screws securely anymore. That's why the latch sticks." He unrolled the bag and grabbed two anchors. "Cam said getting you set up as a corporation shouldn't be difficult. The divorce will depend on how messy things get." He met her gaze. "I didn't know what to tell him about that, but he has someone he can refer you to if needed."

Reilly shook her head. "Doug's not going to contest the divorce. This is a mutual decision." At least her soon-to-be-former spouse promised he'd sign on the dotted line. "He knows I want to live here and start over." Without the added stress of trying to fix something that broke a long time ago.

Caden twisted the screws and tugged on the plate. "That should do it. Let me check the door also." He moved inside the house and checked the knob. "Eh, I'll tighten this up also then you should be good to go … at least for a while." He cast his gaze around the kitchen. "What are your plans for the place?"

Reilly smiled. "I'm starting a homeopathy business. I'll be making and selling my product line here and online." She winced. "That means using a ton of elbow grease and TLC to get things ready. Most of my readily available capital will go toward bringing the basement kitchen up to code." She shrugged. "I'm not afraid of hard work but trying to make the upstairs into my residence while getting the store area down here ready is a bit daunting." And a wee bit overwhelming even if she couldn't wait to get started.

Caden cocked his head. "So, you got three bedrooms and a full bath upstairs, right?" He propped his shoulder on the door jamb.

Reilly nodded. "Yeah. I'll use one of the rooms as my office, one for a living room, and the other as my bedroom. The backstairs will make it easy to keep the kitchen as a personal space." She'd be going with the bare minimum upstairs until she got the store up and running.

Caden's head bobbed up and down. "Sounds like a solid plan. You've got good bones here with the house. Mainly fix-up stuff for the most part, right?"

Reilly lifted her chin. "I think so. I'll need to do some updating, especially this vinyl flooring, but that can wait for now." She glanced around the room, seeing her gram puttering around while cooking something wonderful.

Caden made a sound of agreement. "Small steps. Can't be easy coming back and living with the memories while trying to forge a new beginning at the same time."

Reilly's breath caught. "Yes, that's it. Exactly." He'd nailed the way she felt on the head. "It's like having one foot in the past and the other in the future and straddling the present makes me feel … vulnerable." Her eyes welled up and she blinked tears away. "I miss her. But I think she'd be happy I'm moving back." A laugh bubbled up. "I know she'd be thrilled about the divorce. She was never a huge Doug fan." A fact Wanda made clear anytime Doug accompanied Reilly home.

She should've listened to her gram and owned the mistake a long time ago.

Shaking her head again, she gave Caden a wobbly smile. "Anyway, thank you for calling Cam. I should let you get home." She started to reach for the door, not wanting Caden to leave at all.

But she really couldn't ask him to stay … not after everything he'd done for her today.

Why would he even want to stay? Especially when she walked away from him…

A bit of a longer peek this week. I'm so happy with how this scene came together.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: X Out the Date

Time to wrap up 2024 and send it on its happy way. For me, it's been a year of ups and downs and sometimes the downs packed a punch. That said, I try to focus on the ups and pull that energy into my realm.

Wild weather, per usual. We had sixty degrees yesterday, so my husband went golfing. He's been down with a nasty cold and wanted / needed the fresh air and exercise. Today it's raining and dreary outside.

Finished up a section of a developmental edit I've been working on. So excited to have it done, because we're almost to the finish line on this story. One more chunk of chapters then a full read through and we'll be ready to go.

A semi-decent week of viewing even with the holiday thrown in this week. I still need to pick a new show to watch on one of my streamers and I finished another show and will need to replace it also.

Started season three of Elementary. I'm not sure how I feel about Harsh Joan or New Watson working with Sherlock. Also feel a bit off by Gregson's backhanded bitchslap to Sherlock. I do love that Sherlock is seeing consequences for his actions, even if they were to preserve his sobriety. Season three could prove to be interesting.

I finished The Batman series and thoroughly enjoyed the rewatch. I feel like there's at least one episode I missed, but maybe I'm remembering a different series.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats and didn't remember either of the vignettes. Loved the babies thinking they were helping and the grown-ups getting locked in the playpen.

Enjoyed another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. I think I have two more episodes left in this series. It's a fun show and I'm glad I watched from the beginning.

Finished up the second season of London Kills and I'm excited to start season three. The weaving of the plot lines is something I really like about this series. Looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. Really interested to see what happens with JP. I love his character and I'll be sad to see him go, if he does.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from X Out the Date, a novella that explores a couple reflecting on how they met before making a big commitment to each other.

Here's the miniblurb:

Preston Ayl and Elliot Newman are on the verge of making a strong commitment. Attending conferences on opposite ends of the country, the week away from each other is proving more difficult than either expects and they're crossing out the date until they're back together.

And a snippety peek…

One thirty a.m. rolled around, and Elliot still couldn't sleep. "Wild how much I miss having her next to me." He rolled to his side and punched the neighboring pillow then spooned up against it.

A shitty substitute for Preston.

He'd been lucky to meet her. Okay, the circumstances were off-the-chart weird. Elliot got tangled up in a fracas while playing hockey and he didn't have his gloves on. He'd sliced his finger open on a skate blade.

Alex dropped Elliot off at the emergency entrance of local ED then drove around to park.

Elliot's lips curved. "And he neglected to tell me his cousin worked there." After he'd been triaged, a nurse took him to a curtained area and told him to wait.

The physician assistant entered within ten minutes and Elliot kind of fell for her on the spot.

She looked up from the tablet she'd grabbed from the wall. "Elliot Newman?" Her head tilted to one side. "Normally, I'd shake your hand, but we'll skip that for now." Her gaze met his. "I'm PA Preston Ayl, and I'll be stitching your injury." She pulled a drawer open and retrieved a packet from inside.

Elliot blinked. "Did you say Ayl? Any relation to Alex?" Not exactly a common name.

She arched her brows. "Alex is my cousin. Did he do the honors?" She nodded toward the gauze-covered finger.

Elliot chuckled but didn't have a chance to answer because Alex poked his head around the curtain.

"Hey, it wasn't me. We're on the same team." He gave the PA's shoulder a squeeze. "Take good care of him, Pres. We've got a match next week."

Preston rolled her eyes but got ready to stitch up the wound. "Did anyone think to warn you about Alex? He thinks dangerous stunt is his middle name."

Elliot laughed. "Actually, Alex did the warning himself. Said to forget about trying to keep up with him." He barely felt the sting of the numbing agent she used.

Preston huffed out a breath. "Yeah, he should come with a warning label." She put four sutures in and bandaged his finger. "I learned not to follow Alex blindly after I fell out of the tree we were climbing and broke my arm."

Alex chimed in. "Yeah, she was a trooper. Pretty sure that's when she decided she wanted to be involved in the medical field." He paused a moment. "Hey, you two have something in common … aside from me, that is. Elliot works for a small medical equipment manufacturer in design and sales."

Preston arched her brows. "Pre-hospital, medical center, or primary care facility?" She put a piece of tape on the gauze to hold it in place.

Elliot rolled a shoulder. "All three. We make portable sharps containers and medical bags that clean easily to avoid cross contamination as our main lines." He didn't mention the disposable sheets they were testing right now.

Her eyes widened. "Are the bags the ones with the sealed mesh stuff?"

His lips twitched. "Uh, yeah. They're super easy to wipe down and there's no worry about stuff getting imbedded in the weave." He'd had a hand in creating that product line.

She did a slow nod. "Those bags are terrific."

Elliot resisted the urge to puff out his chest at the kudos.

After going over the instructions for care, she slid her gaze to Alex.

He held his hands up. "I know. I know. I won't make him practice until the stitches are removed."

Preston snorted. "I think you mean you won't let him practice." She gave Elliot a smile. "Seriously, you need to sit out for bit." She started gathering up the debris from her work.

Elliot grunted. "Not a problem. I'd rather not tempt fate and risk another injury." Unless he could see her again.

Alex must've read Elliot's mind. "Hey, Pres. Why don't you plan to make a house call and check those stitches in a day or two."

She narrowed her eyes. "Are you playing matchmaker?"

Alex smirked. "You know me better than that. I'm asking for purely selfish reasons."

Preston lifted her chin. "Ah, right. The big match you need Mr. Newman for."

Elliot winced. "Elliot, please. Not to be cliché, but Mr. Newman is my dad." He experimented and tried to wiggle his finger and didn't find a lot give, which impressed him. "Thanks for this. It's not restrictive yet I can't really move or bend it either." Took some skill to get it just right.

Preston flashed a smile. "That's good to hear. Thank you." She made a note on the screen of the tablet. "I'll send the nurse back in with your paperwork then you can head home." She started to leave the curtained area.

Alex waved. "Hey. House call? Will you do it?"

Elliot should protest, but he wouldn't mind seeing Preston again.

Her lips twisted in a wry smile. "Text me Elliot's contact information and if I'll try to arrange a time to drop by." She glanced in Elliot's direction. "If you're okay with this?"

Elliot nodded. "Sure. If it's no imposition."

Alex shook his head. "It's not."

Elliot tsked. "Dude, I'm pretty sure she can answer for herself."

Preston grinned. "It's not. I'll look forward to seeing you again." She waited a beat. "Hopefully without my weird family member this time." She gave a waggle-fingered wave to Alex and exited the space.

Elliot stared after her.

Alex leaned in. "FYI, she loves superhero movies."

This is such a fun story to write. Elliot and Preston are pretty angst free and I enjoy writing happy, fluffy stories sometimes.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: X Marks the Spot

Seasons' Greetings!

For whatever holiday you celebrate, I hope you have a joyous time filled with cheer and merriment. We'll be low key per usual with a trip to my dad's and hopefully some FaceTime with my brother in Arizona.

The weather is still playing back and forth. We have a bit of snow and it's pretty cold right now. The temps are supposed to warm up into the forties and fifties over the next few days.

Finished up two projects this week and have one on my plate. January looks to be shaping up with multiple projects and I'm so grateful for those. The short break gives me some time to finish getting my side project ready to launch and I hope to do that next week during the holiday.

Only a semi-good week of viewing. I had some big cleaning projects to work on and got a good bit of that completed. Still working on a few others and hope to have them finished before the end of the year.

Watched another episode of Mr and Mrs Murder. I remember parts of this one but hadn't seen the entire episode. Ended up being pretty good.

Also watched an episode of London Kills. The plot thickens regarding the disappearance of David's wife. Looking forward to seeing how that ends up being resolved. Also enjoying Billie so much on this show.

Enjoyed the one hundredth episode of Death in Paradise. So lovely to have Camille back for a brief stay. Also nice to see Spirit Richard. This also marks, in my opinion, when Catherine and Selwyn take on larger roles in the show. Looking forward to rounding out season ten with the last two episodes.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from X Marks the Spot, a novella featuring a pleasure island for couples to act out their fantasies.

Here's the miniblurb:

Nydia Vreeland takes her boyfriend, Declan Morris, on an adult adventure vacation where sexy fun and games ensue. X Marks the Spot Private Island Resort caters to couples who want to push the boundaries of their sexual experience. The way Nydia figures things, there's no way she can lose.

And a snippety peek…

Nydia shifted around to recline on the chaise, pulling Declan down beside her. "You know the main details. X Marks the Spot is an island resort and pretty much all inclusive. We only need to pack a suitcase." She curled up against him. "I'm so excited we're doing this."

Declan trailed a finger over her shoulder. "What scenarios did you pick? I mean you had to fill out at least three, right?"

Nydia hedged. "Yeah. And I want those to be a surprise for you." She smoothed her hand down his chest. "But only those. The rest we'll plan together." Her lips curved. "I'm seeing naked charades in our future."

Declan laughed. "Or naked Twister. That one could be fun."

Nydia pictured getting all tangled up with Declan on the colorful mat and nodded. "Yeah, and it could be really hot if we add other players." Declan's body responded. "Heh. You like that idea." Her fingers wrapped around his semi-hard erection.

Declan grunted. "Yeah, it does sound pretty hot." His hand dropped lower, and he palmed her breast. "Might be fun to watch others. You said they've got some public areas, right?" His thumb brushed over her nipple.

 She squirmed a little, getting turned on. "Uh-huh. I think both outside and in the main lodge." Becoming a voyeur could be interesting…

But being the subject others watched … she didn't know how she felt about that idea.

Declan's lips nuzzled her temple. "Don't overthink, Nyd." He nudged her sideways and scooted over then hauled her up to straddle his thighs. "We're going to be testing some boundaries, but we don't have to cross any we don't want to." His fingers glided over the skin of her hips.

She raised up and sank over his rigid length. "You're very good at guessing what's in my head." Rocking her hips, she caught his mouth with hers.

Declan deepened the embrace, sliding his tongue against hers. She loved this man with everything she had. Whether they decided to partake in a public spectacle or not, she trusted he would make it as enjoyable as he did everything else.

She couldn't ask for a better partner in or out of bed.

This is such a fun story, and this couple is very adventurous.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Winning Hand

Big cold snap with a little bit of snow this week in weather. I'm getting much better about making sure I have layers on even if it's just a quick trip outside with the doggos. I also haven't had a major cold yet this season and I hope I didn't just jinx that fact.

Semibusy work week with finishing a proofread and working on two copy edits. I'm hoping to have some projects to work on over the holiday break. I'm not great at having a week or two off then trying to gear back up into work mode.

Fairly decent week of viewing. I'm trying to decide what new show to add to my usual slate of viewing fare. I'm leaning toward Beyond Paradise, but I'm not completely sure yet.

Caught another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. I hadn't seen much if any of this episode and I enjoyed it. I think I have a handful of episodes left before it'll be time to switch to another show.

Watched another episode of London Kills and tensions are running high. The case ended up being very interesting and Viv and Rob are pushing the line by investigating David. Looking forward to more of this one.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. Part one of a two-part arc and the lead-in to the show's one hundredth episode. Loved seeing Camille at the end and can't wait to watch the next episode. I've seen almost all of it and loved it.

Finished up season two of Elementary. I still think Mycroft is an ass even if I get why he did things the way he did. I'm a little on the fence about where Sherlock and Joan left things. I'll be interested to see where they pick up with season three.

Started the two-part series finale of The Batman. I don't remember if I actually watched this before or not but it was a good episode. I think I might move on to Batman Beyond after this.

Also watched another episode Classic Rugrats. I hadn't seen either of the vignettes and enjoyed both.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Winning Hand, a sexy short that sees a couple go from friends to lovers.

Here's the miniblurb:

A night of poker takes a sexy turn when Hahn Canedy ups the ante and wagers a night of hot sex as his tithe. Tawni Capps can't resist calling the bet—either way she'll have the winning hand.

And a snippety peek…

Tawni tilted her head to one side when Brett and Ellie scooted away from the table. "You're not quitting now, are you?" She'd just lost most of her Skittles to Hahn.

Robin and Dav cut out after about five hands. Both headed to their separate rooms to turn in. Robin had a report to review and Dav … probably had a new love interest. He didn't get into specifics but mentioned talking to someone new.

Ellie yawned. "I'm beat. And I refuse to open another bag of candy so Hahn can win more from me." She stretched and grabbed her cup. "I'm going to refill my water and head to bed." She leaned down and gave Tawni a quick hug.

Brett lifted his chin. "Same. Only not the water part." He slapped Hahn on the back. "Enjoy your bounty, my man." He nodded toward the pile of colorful blobs on the table. "Tawni, I'll wager you won't have any Skittles left by the time you're done." He smirked and blew a kiss in her direction.

Tawni rolled her eyes. "Whatever. I've got a bag stashed if lose it all." She propped her feet up on a newly vacated chair. "'Night, peeps." She shifted her attention to Hahn, a little thrilled to find him studying her with narrowed eyes.

Maybe he'd taken her hint from earlier…

Which she somewhat doubted because they'd kept each other in the friendzone for … well … ever. She had some reservations about crossing the imaginary line separating them, but she also wondered if Hahn might be what she actually wanted but feared getting. She'd never know if she didn't push against their boundaries.

She arched her brows. "Looks like it's you and me. Your deal." Tapping the deck in the middle of the table, she followed by pushing it toward him.

He handily shuffled the cards and dealt two hands.

She picked hers up and quickly discarded a few. "Two, please." When Hahn gave her the requested number, she adjusted the positions and carefully kept her features blank.

Hahn would have a hard time beating this one.

He rearranged his cards then glanced upward. "What's your wager?"

Tawni leaned back in her chair. "I don't know. Depends on if you're taking any cards or not." Maybe she could test the waters with a different kind of wager.

Hahn rolled a shoulder. "I'm good." He set his cards facedown on the table.

Tawni straightened again, swinging her feet off the chair and leaning forward. "You're not taking any cards?" Hmm … he must have a great hand also. "In that case, I guess I'm all-in." She moved the rest of her Skittles to the center of the table.

Hahn's lips kicked up in a smile. "Well, now I'm not sure what to do." His eyes narrowed on her again.

A bolt of something wickedly sexy burst through her. "Need a little help deciding?" She made her tone suggestive and playful.

Hahn blinked and shook his head. "If you're all-in, what do you have left to lose if I raise?"

A great question … one she couldn't wait to solve.

Tawni will definitely get her chance to issue a challenge to Hahn and she'll be very happy with the outcome.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Wind It Up

Ohio is back to being contrary with its weather. Super cold days in the teens followed by a warmup of midfifties. My sinuses hate this kind of back and forth.

Had a fairly busy work week with a new project landing in my inbox. It's one of my favorite authors to edit and proofread for. Also spent a lot of time pulling my tax stuff together. I realized last week I hadn't filed for 2023 yet. Better late than never.

Not a bad week of viewing. I didn't make a full round of my usual slate of shows, but I got most of the way through. Again, my sleep schedule is playing havoc with my brain.

Watched another episode of Mr and Mrs Murder and thoroughly enjoyed it. A lot of familiar faces in this one, which is always fun.

Caught another episode of London Kills and I'm kind of excited about Rob and Vivienne teaming up to investigate David. Of course, there's more to the story and I can't wait to find out what's really going on.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. I'd seen most of this one but it's nice to follow the whole story from beginning to end instead of catching bits and pieces all the time.

Finished up season twenty-seven of Silent Witness. Gotta say, I really enjoyed the finale. Jack proposing to Nikki made my heart happy. And I'm interested to see what happens with Jack's place. Maybe Kara and Velvy will stay there.

Watched another episode of Elementary and enjoyed it. Still not a Mycroft fan even if he had extenuating reasons for being an ass. I am kind of glad Sherlock isn't going to throw his brother under the bus. At least I don't think he is. The next episode should reveal what will happen.

And that's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Wind It Up, a novella that features a past and present dilemma for the main character.

Here's the miniblurb:

Garner Mason enlists in the military and leaves Rae Manilow behind—breaking her heart. Rae meets Sheriff Felix Reynolds and falls hard, settling down with him in his mountain cabin. When Garner rolls into town intent on making amends with Rae, she's trapped between two men she deeply loves and can't see a way out of her predicament.

And a snippety peek…

Felix sat at the bar in Maguire's Saloon, nursing a beer.

The door whooshed open and, didn't it figure, Rae's ex strolled in. Garner made a quick scan of the interior—something Felix recognized from his military training—then ambled up to the bar and ordered a draft. The bartender pulled a mug from the shelf, filled it, and set it in front of Garner. Felix observed, trying to decide whether to confront the other man or stay on the sidelines.

Confrontation won.

He swiveled around on the stool and cleared his throat.

Garner glanced toward Felix and recognition flared in Garner's gaze. His fingers tightened on the mug, but otherwise, his face remained neutral. Felix took that as a good sign.

He nodded toward a table in the corner. "Got a minute?" He didn't wait for a response, sliding off the stool and heading for the alcove.

Mason would follow or not. Instinct said the other man would face Felix. Rae's recollections of their time together hinted at a strong streak of honor in Garner. Sure enough, booted footsteps sounded on the polished floor behind Felix.

Felix settled atop one of the chairs. Garner took the opposite one and both set their mugs on the surface at the same time. Garner slouched down, angling his legs to one side and crossed his ankles.

Felix took a moment to assess the other man. Rae loved him. She always would. And Felix loved her. His conversation with Penelope replayed in his mind. Love is what we make of it. It can be narrow and clearly expressed or expansive and hard to define. She'd nailed the issue on the head.

Garner met Felix's gaze. "Your minute is half gone. Say your piece." He took a long swallow of his beer.

Felix didn't mince words. "What are your intentions? You planning to pull Rae back into a relationship?" He arched his brow. "Or just stopping in for a quick screw? If so, think again. A fast pit stop won't work here. She's a hell of a woman and deserves better." And she'd probably be pissed if she could hear him now.

Garner straightened up and crossed his ankle over his knee. "You mean with someone like you?" His lip curled but his tone lacked heat.

Felix grunted. "Like with whoever she wants. If that's you, I can step aside." He wouldn't like it or make it easy, but he'd get out of the way if he had to.

Garner snorted. "As if."

Felix leaned in. "Rae and I have a lot of discussions where your name pops up. I can live with that." He loved her pure heart. "But don't make promises you can't keep. If you're not going to stick around, don't stir shit up." Or leave her in tiny pieces.

Garner clenched his fist. "I can't stick around. But I love her, man. I always have. Coming back here … facing my past … I needed to do that. And I still love her. Always will." His shoulders slumped and he heaved a sigh.

Felix leaned back. "But you won't stay." Would he really wreck Rae again?

Garner gave a swift back and forth of his head. "I can't. I know it's not fair. But I'm special forces and damn good at my job. I made a promise to my CO to stay in. He's the closest thing I've had to an actual dad." He exhaled slowly. "I won't let him down. Not after he pulled me up straight and gave me a purpose."

Felix lifted his chin. "Yeah, I get it." He waited a moment. "So, how do you see this playing out? Because a quick romp for old time's sake will only hurt Rae."

Garner sighed. "Yeah. I know." He took a long sip of his bear. "I don't know, man. This was a terrible idea. Probably be better all around if I get the hell out of town and finish my leave somewhere else."

Felix shook his head. "Don't even think about it unless she asks you to. You don't get to decide what's best for her." Hell, I don't get to make that choice either. Even if that's what I'm doing right now.

Garner arched a brow. "If she decides I'm best for her? You willing to walk away?"

Felix gave a terse nod. "I love her enough to get out of the way." He shot Garner a look. "I also love her enough to stay."

Garner blew out a harsh breath. "Harsh. But point made." He scooted back. "Look, I've been as honest as I can. I've got thirty days leave. I'll be around that long. Rae can contact me if she wants." He got up to leave.

Felix stopped him. "I'm going home to her now and I'll be telling her we talked." Then brace for impact because she'd be unhappy.

Garner shrugged, a smirk playing across his mouth. "Can't stop you, and I've been gone a long time, but not long enough to forget she won't be happy about our discussion."

Felix snorted. "No, she won't be." And damned if he didn't like Garner a hell of a lot—even with that blast of honesty.

I love this story so much. It's so much fun writing a throuple.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Weathering the Storm

Welcome, December! I'm truly not sure what this month will bring. I'm at a weird place where I feel kind of stuck and a little buried under the weight of needing to get things done … but I have no idea where to start.

Work slowed down a little, which isn't a great thing. But it did give me some time to spend with my daughter when she came home for Thanksgiving break. I'm so grateful for that time. And December still looks to be booked with projects for the most part.

The temperature did drop but didn't quite dip into the teens. I'm really not ready for the arctic blast yet. But it does help get me in a mood for the holidays.

Had a semi-decent week of viewing. My sleep schedule is all over the place again and that doesn't always make for a good attention span.

Watched the season two premiere episode of London Kills. Nice to see Billie back in action. I'm interested in the ongoing arc from season one. This cast is stellar, and I love the changing dynamics between them.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm starting to find some redeeming value in Neville. I liked the way he kind of helped Florance. Really not sure about Marlon.

Enjoyed part one of Silent Witness. Loving some inside looks at Jack and Nikki and the mystery is kind of amazing. I have no idea where things are going and that's always fun.

Watched another episode of Elementary. Mycroft is an ass and maybe that's a good thing. He definitely has some explaining to do. I do give him kudos for being able to manipulate Sherlock even if I hate that he could. And I'm going to be really pissed if Sherlock decides Joan is his weakness and starts acting like a bigger ass than Mycroft.

Caught an episode of The Batman and it's one I don't remember watching previously. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Having a team that is completely opposite of Batman and Robin was fun.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats. I think it's the final one where the whole episode is one story. I kind of wish there were more of those.

And that's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Weathering the Storm, a novella where the characters are prepping to be snowed in.

Here's the miniblurb:

Gabby Carns and Tim Appleby live in a remote, mountainous region. When the weather report warns of massive snow fall, the couple prepares for the coming blizzard. But instead of being fearful, they're looking forward to the alone time—nothing brings out the steamy romance like a plunge in the temperature.

And a snippety peek…

Tim stacked the last of the chopped wood. "Better get a fire going." The gray sky looked hazy from the falling white stuff.

He stomped the flakes from his boots and slid them off just inside the door. Hanging his flannel on the hook, he headed over and lit the logs in the fireplace grate then in the woodburning stove. He found the PB and B sandwiches and wolfed them down before making sure the hurricane lanterns were filled and ready.

He puttered in his workspace. "I hope Gabby makes another hearty stew." Not much could beat strip checkers by the fire and Gabby's cooking.

She joked about lacking skill, but he didn't want a gourmet chef. She made simple recipes then elevated them with twists on tradition. Her grilled peanut butter and apple sandwiches had been a first for him. And they were actually pretty tasty.

"Not as good as peanut butter and banana, though."

He checked the clock. "Should have enough time to grab a shower and get the guideline secured for the generator before Gabby gets back." He'd help her unload and get everything put away.

He didn't take long and stood at the window, toweling his hair dry. The clouds were darker, and the snow fell harder. It still scrabbled across the ground, not quite sticking yet. But it would soon. The wind had picked up and the flurries danced in little whirlwinds.

Dragging on a pair of jeans, he threw a waffle-knit shirt over his shoulder and snagged a pair of thick socks from his drawer. He shrugged the shirt over his head and slid his feet into the socks then his boots. After retrieving a length of rope from his workspace, he knotted one end to the railing on the back porch. He'd lowered the tarps to act as a windbreak and to keep most of the snow off the porch. The generator sat close to the AC unit about fifteen feet away from the back door. Never a problem if they lost power when a thunderstorm blew through.

"Definitely not fun when we've got blizzard conditions." He pulled the rope taut and tied it off on the post between the house and the generator.

He huffed out a breath. The last time they'd been snowed in, they struggled to not get turned around in the whiteout conditions. Gabby suggested the guideline and didn't have to work to convince him. "We should think about adding a solar-powered generator next year." No need for gas cans.

While the weather held, he made his way to the shed and loaded up a canvas bag with rolled-up papers. "Love recycling the store ads we get in the mail." The skinny logs made great kindling.

He deposited them beside the stacked wood then went back to putter in his work area until Gabby got home.

Tim and Gabby are fun to write, especially with building anticipation for weathering a huge snowstorm.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin