Sunday Snippet: Just Take a Moment

Bleh. I've been fighting a yucky cold all week and I'm feeling a little better but not quite 100 percent. I'd be happy if the coughing could be a wee bit less.

Weather has been steadily warming up. We've dipped back down a couple of times but thankfully it's been gradual without the wild forty-degree swings in twenty-four hours. Been getting a lot of rain, which is causing high water and some flooding. Combine that with ongoing construction and the onset of tree-trimming and getting anywhere is something of a challenge. It pays to leave early.

Another busy work week. Finished up another proofread, continued work on one, and started an assessment read through. Also finished up a read through on another project that keeps lingering in the shadows. Started a new proofread that's a lot of fun so far.

Had a decent viewing week even though I slept a lot because of the yuck. I made it all the way through my usual slate of shows and added an addition to the lineup.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery along with getting more Harry backstory. I think the next two episodes are a two-parter that makes the finale. Can't wait to watch.

Watched the first behind the scenes for Foyle's War. Kind of enjoyed seeing the process of how they do what they do to film the period specific series.

Finished up the first season of Return to Paradise. I have no idea when season two will be available on the streaming platform, but I'll look forward to it.

Caught another episode of Poirot and completely enjoyed poor Japp trying to manage on his own then having a harder time after accepting Poirot's invitation to stay with him. Fun to see Miss Lemon's sister.

Elementary ended up being very entertaining. The twisty start proved interesting and Joan's advice to Sherlock turned out to be great. I love where their relationship is at this point.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and had completely forgotten about this one. I think I have one more left before I'll need to find a new series to watch or rewatch.

Also caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and quite enjoyed learning about Tendi's pirate past. Always fun to see characters from other Trek shows pop up in the episodes and Deep Space Nine counts as a character. Just saying.

I continued to use my Kanopy tickets to watch Fleetwood Mac: The Dance. This was such a great concert film, with quite a few surprises. Glad I got to watch.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Just Take a Moment, a novella that explores a second chance at romance.

Here's the miniblurb:

Sheila Hogan has spent eight years in the military and returns home to bury her mother. Troy Collins is the guy she left behind, and, after a bumpy reunion, she realizes he's still a source of strength and calm. Sheila has thirty days to decide if she's going to sign on for another four years or muster out and explore the future with Troy.

And a snippety peek…

Troy stared at the empty space Sheila left behind. Whispers rose and filled the room when she departed. Eyes darted his way.

The funeral director stepped in. "Ms. Hogan is taking a few moments to compose herself. Please give her some time and space." He stood sentinel next to the casket.

Troy shook his head. "That went about as well as I expected." He moved through the room, filled with flowers and pictures of Lydia's life. Not much different from his dad's viewing. But with a different set of lifetime memories.

Pushing his way out the door, he walked down the steps and across the parking lot. "Maybe I shouldn't have come." He'd debated the idea, not sure how he'd react to seeing Sheila again.

He didn't think about her reaction to seeing him.

He snorted. "Guess I know the answer now." The her seeing him part.

He didn't have a handle on so close to her yet. She obviously looked different. Eight years changed people. The navy appeared to have been good for her. She'd never been soft and giggly. He loved that about her. She spoke her mind and expected him to do the same.

Except when it came to leaving. She hadn't said a word about enlisting in the military. Hadn't mentioned she'd be heading out two days after graduation.

He paused by his car. "I really should've seen it coming, though." She'd laid the groundwork … he'd been too blind to see the gears turning.

He popped the door open and settled behind the wheel, his mind drifting back to Lydia giving him the news about Sheila being gone. Lydia brought him in, set him down, and explained that her daughter had some ghosts that needed laid to rest. Clarity hit him between the eyes. Sheila never really got over her dad walking out. Lydia agreed. Sheila wanted to see the world because she thought it would help her understand why her dad left.

Lydia shook her head. "I fear she'll be sorely disappointed. Jack didn't walk away to traipse all over the planet. He left because he couldn't handle being responsible for himself let alone anyone else." She'd grabbed his hand. "I'm sorry she didn't have the courage to tell you. But I think she feared she wouldn't go if she did. She'd let you talk her out of leaving."

At the time, he didn't want to admit he would've tried to convince her to not do something she wanted. But after some soul-searching and talking to his mom, he had to own the idea he probably would have. Or worse … given her an ultimatum.

Shaking off the memory, he started the car. He'd done what he'd come for. Offered his condolences for Sheila's loss. And okay, things went sideways pretty fast. A better man would track her down and apologize, but he didn't have it in him at the moment. Besides, he didn't owe her anything.

But Lydia had always being kind to him, even when he'd asked her to keep him out of the loop when it came to her daughter. She respected the request. But she'd come to his dad's funeral, and Troy's mom appreciated the gesture.

A weird thought hit him. He and his mom had each other to lean on when his dad passed and left their finances in a mess. 

Sheila didn't have anyone to rely on. No parent to help pick up the pieces.

At least not a present one.

Putting the vehicle in gear, he eased out of the parking space and turned toward the exit. His headlights flashed on the lone figure sitting on the stone ledge, head bent forward and shoulders shaking.

He almost stopped … but decided against doing so. He didn't want to make her grief worse.

But a part of him let go of the thread of resentment he'd held on to for so long.

No matter what remained unsaid between them, they'd each lost a parent and that meant they shared some common ground. Maybe not enough to forgive and forget … but probably enough for him cut her a break and move on from the hurt she'd caused.

Just starting out with this one but very happy with how it's coming together. Sheila and Troy are a bit of a challenge to write and I like that.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Just Skip Dessert

Happy Easter to those who celebrate. Happy regular Sunday to those who don't. After three days of lovely temperatures, we're back to mid-forties and chilly. I'll take the cooler weather because the warm-up seemed to bring the ticks out. Pulled three of them off my spouse yesterday. That's usually a May through October problem.

Got to enjoy a wonderful Friday with my daughter at an art walk. She's a project manager for a county arts council and knows many of the artists. So much fun!

Had a busy work week. Finished up a copy edit and proofread for one of the publishers I edit for. Also finished a proofread for a memoir. Continued work on two other proofreads. I have a developmental edit to start this week and hopefully another copy edit.

Ended up with an okay viewing week. I got through most of the shows I watch. I ended up skipping two because I didn't feel well and couldn't concentrate on more than one thing at a time. I did get some cleaning and decluttering done when I needed a break from work projects.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and quite enjoyed the mystery. I love Alexa and Madison's friendship, especially when Madison pushes Alexa out of her comfort zone.

Caught another Foyle's War and ended the eighth season. Loved Sam's good news and kind of felt sorry for Miss Pierce. There are several behind the scenes episodes that I hope to watch this week.

Watched another Return to Paradise and I'm almost finished with the first season. Not sure when the second will be available to me, but I'll look forward to it.

Also enjoyed another episode of Poirot. A holiday episode with a truly distasteful antagonist that thankfully didn't last long. I loved Poirot coming to Japp's rescue once the singing started. If you know, you know.

Elementary ended up being very good. I'm kind of interested to see where Joan's story goes with Shin. Also enjoyed Sherlock's chess match with Shin.

I binge-watched some Brokenwood Mysteries. The new season starts this week and I'll dive into it as soon as I finish up My Life Is Murder.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Just Skip Dessert, a novella that puts one of the characters in a tricky situation and gives the other character a chance to lend a helping hand.

Here's the miniblurb:

Wanda Craig and Dewey Pearson are the two newest teachers at Cheltenson Academy, a private school, and they hit it off right away. When a family emergency calls Wanda away right before the end of semester dinner for the new academic advisors, Dewey gets to deal with an inappropriate advance from the headmaster's wife. When Wanda returns, she takes steps to give Dewey a better experience.

And a snippety peek…

Dewey's new boss stopped in front of a brick bungalow where a woman with wavy blond hair sashayed back and forth from one side of the porch to the other.

Chalmers frowned. "Ellyn, what are you doing here?" His gaze narrowed on the woman.

Ellyn waved a hand. "Chalmers, dear, I'm here to welcome the newest additions to our exalted ranks, of course." She smiled sweetly at Chalmers. "Please do the introductions."

Chalmers made a grumbling sound. "This is Ellyn, my wife." He stepped up onto the porch and withdrew a key from his pocket. "Ellyn, this is Dewey Pearson and Wanda Craig." He unlocked the door and pushed it open.

Ellyn barely spared a glance for Wanda, acknowledging her with a brief lift of eyebrows.

For Dewey, she tucked her hand around his arm after giving him a slow once-over. "It's so lovely to meet you. Let's go in for a quick tour, shall we?" She didn't wait for an answer, guiding Dewey into the bungalow.

Chalmers made a grumbling sound again. "Yes, yes. By all means, show them around." He retrieved another key and held it out for Wanda. "You're right next door." He pointed to the quaint stone cottage on the right side.

Wanda murmured her thanks. "Much appreciated." She trailed behind Dewey and Ellyn.

Chalmers stepped inside. "Ellyn, don't be long. We want to give Pearson and Craig time to get settled." He met Dewey's gaze. "Report to my office at eight a.m. and I'll go over your responsibilities." Glancing toward Wanda, he lifted his chin. "I'll meet you directly after lunch and we'll get you sorted over at the theater." He gave Ellyn a brief look.

She waved her free hand. "Go on, dear. I know how busy you are the week before classes start. I'll see you at dinner." Turning away from her husband, she led Dewey further into the house.

Dewey grew increasingly annoyed at the way Ellyn wouldn't let go of his arm while she showed the main points of the bungalow. She also blithely ignored Wanda, which irritated Dewey, especially when Ellyn continued to flirt outrageously with him. Dewey worked to bring Wanda into the conversation and remind Ellyn the other woman existed.

He asked about the layout of the houses even though they were the same on the information sheets. "Wanda, any questions about your cottage?"

She smirked a little and got a good swipe or two in with a polite innocence that counted as … anything but innocent. "Oh no. None at all. Mrs. Grove is doing a lovely job with the grand tour." Keeping things formal by calling Ellyn Mrs. Grove earned Wanda a sharp glance.

Dewey's lips twitched, but he remained silent.

Wanda got another jab in when they finished the walkthrough. "Mrs. Grove, your husband has been so welcoming and kind. It's remarkable how both of you are working in tandem to make us feel like part of the family."

Ellyn's nostrils flared, but she gave Wanda a tight smile.

Wanda shot one last missile across the bow. "And I think your husband is going to be a great boss."

Dewey admired the way his newest coworker rather put Ellyn Chalmers in her place without being catty or bitchy about it. Frankly, he wanted to applaud the new theater director's ad-libbing, show-stealing moxie. They'd reached the front door again and Ellyn visibly stewed at Wanda's gentle reminders about Ellyn's marital status.

However … since she had no reason to continue holding on to Dewey, she inclined her head and stepped toward the door. "Yes, well, it's wonderful to have you." She met Dewey's gaze. "We always host a dinner party for our new educators." She flicked her attention to Wanda. "Chalmers will let you know the date and time, but it'll be soon." With another tight smile, she exited Dewey's new residence.

Dewey waited until the door firmly closed behind her before he turned to Wanda. "Uh, wow." He had no other words.

Wanda laughed. "Yeah, she's not subtle, is she?"

Dewey chuckled. "Not one bit. But you were amazing."

I'm in the beginning stages of this one but it's so much fun to write!

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Just Do It Already

Ugh. So many small irritants combined to make the week rather challenging. Car problems, house problems, and too many things hitting at once. I'll get through it all, but I'm stressing out, which isn't fun.

The great news is we didn't lose power even with the wild back and forth temperatures. I have a feeling April won't be much better than March when it comes to stabilizing the weather patterns. If only the world could figure out what's causing all the bizarre weather. Yes, that's sarcasm. The world knows what the problem is.

Got a lot of work completed over the week. I have four main projects on my schedule and I'm plugging away at all of them. Finishing up two but have two more waiting in the wings. I also have a couple of backburner projects that I'll be dipping into again.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Two of my projects involve some tedious cleanup and it's nice to have something on in the background to keep things interesting. I made it through most of my usual shows.

I started with Foyle's War and enjoyed the episode. Kind of sad to see his female counterpart moved to the sidelines again. Lovely to see Sam help her husband get elected as an MP.

Caught another episode of Return to Paradise. I remembered most of this one and enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from other shows I've watched set in Australia.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Really fun to see a couple of very young costars in this one. Also thoroughly enjoyed the mystery.

Elementary had a great episode. I didn't quite make it all the way through because I got distracted, but I enjoyed it.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond. I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and I'm about two episodes from the end of the series and I need to decide what I'll be watching next. Maybe a Justice League series.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and very much enjoyed watching Boimler lose his mind. Very fun!

I also had a chance to use my library membership to watch a Stevie Nicks concert via the Kanopy app. I'm going to work hard to make sure I'm taking advantage of everything my local libraries offer. The concert was so good!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Just Do It Already, a sexy short that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the miniblurb:

On an annual get together with a group of friends, Minnie Roberts gets her chance to test the waters with Reuben Harper who's had a string of bad luck with the dating pool. Reuben is blind to Minnie's interest, and she catches him off guard when she suggests a strings-free weekend with each other.

And a snippety peek…

Reuben put a halt to his brain trying to spin out of control. "Um, yeah. We can go with that." Helping a friend out.

Did she only see him as that. A friend? Of course. What else could she see him as? Except maybe the cranky asshole he'd been lately.

He cocked his head. "Should there be some ground rules?" And what would that look like?

Minnie's lips kicked upward. "I thought you didn't have to overthink things."

Reuben grunted. "Right. I don't. But I also don't want to trash anything either." Friendships were hard to keep.

And he had a solid group right now.

Minnie gave a nod. "Me either. So, let's head back to the condo and see where things go." She met his gaze. "For now, consider us friends with benefits for the duration of our stay here. After that…" She let her voice trail off.

A bridge they could cross when they got there.

He couldn't argue the logic. "Okay. I'm down with that." He got up and held out a hand. "Let's go."

She flashed a quick smile and grasped his fingers. "Yes, let's go." She slid off the chair and fell into step beside him.

He paused by the door. "Should we tell the others?" And what, exactly, would they say to their group? Hey, we're gonna go sex it up. Catch you later.

Minnie shook her head. "They'll be out there until the sun comes up. You know the tradition."

Right. He did. They usually closed the bar down then walked on the beach until the first rays of dawn broke the horizon.

The stroll to the condo passed quickly and without conversation. But their fingers were still laced together. He liked the feel of her hand intertwined with his.

Once inside the rental, they parted and Minnie set her bag on the coffee table then entered the kitchen area. She fussed with the cups they left behind earlier, and he pulled the fridge door open to have something to do then shut it, because, really? Not exactly a smooth transition from friends to lovers.

We're both nervous. Big step to hook up with a friend. Especially one he wanted to keep after whatever happened … happened.

Reuben raked a hand through his hair. "How do we start this?" Stupid question, but he honestly had no idea how to approach hooking up with her.

Minnie stilled after putting the glasses in the sink, but only for a moment.

She hopped up on the island and tugged him closer. "A kiss might be a good idea." Her lips twisted with a wry smile.

Yeah, locking lips could work. And he'd always wondered what hers would feel like against his. Guess I'm about to find out…

He leaned in, his mouth hovering close to hers. She put her hands on his chest and took a shaky breath. Reuben hesitated… Just do it already! He caught her mouth with his, thinking to start small … but as soon as their lips meshed, flames ignited in his bloodstream and his tongue slid past her teeth. Minnie groaned and hauled him closer, wrapping her legs around his waist.

Holy shit. Fireworks went off in his brain and he scooped her off the counter, carrying her toward the nearest comfortable surface … the couch in the living room. He needed to explore every inch of her…

And he didn't have to ask how to do that.

This is a fun one to write. I love friends who become more even if they don't think they will.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Just Dance

Whew. It's been a long week. Can't say it's been terrible, more a constant state of busy. I did manage to take care of several personal life things that I've been putting off so that's a bonus. But I've also been scattered all over the place and that makes me bananapants.

Ohio is gearing up for another weather event where we have 84 degrees today for the high and by Monday, the high will be in the low forties. The barometer hates me right now. Also planning for power outages because when the temperature shifts that much in twenty-four to forty-eight hours and thunderstorms are thrown in, things tend to happen. Wind shears, lightning strikes, flash floods that take out trees. Yeah, definitely hope for the best but prep for the worst.

Work projects have been stacked up with more coming in. I'm very happy to be busy! I finished up a proofread of a terrific nonfiction book, got through a copy edit that ended up having some possibly big consistency concerns. Set up the start of a manuscript proofread to start this week and scheduled a read through of a manuscript that I'll be doing a developmental edit on. I have a few odds and ends that I'll be working on wherever I can also.

Did not get a lot of viewing done this week. Didn't have the bandwidth and needed to focus on work projects. Also ended up having a very productive writing week.

I did finish up Foyle's War and I enjoyed rewatching. I'd forgotten how reluctant Foyle was to join the security forces.

Also caught another episode of My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. I love Rueben letting himself get pulled into the capers.

Still need to finish Poirot from last week. I'll probably start over because I didn't get very far into the episode before I had to pause.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Just Dance, a novella that brings the characters together for a second chance at romance.

Here's the miniblurb:

When Kevin Hale returns home to help his family put their craft brewery on the map, he has to work with Alice Frank—the girl he left behind—to launch an event to benefit local businesses in a slow summer month. Alice is wary of getting involved with Kevin again—his wanderlust is well-known and she's definitely a hometown girl—but his creativity spurs hers and she takes a chance that he'll stick around this time.

And a snippety peek…

Alice Frank clicked out of the email forwarded by the director with a shaky hand. "Kevin Hale. Geez." Eight years ago, she dreamed she'd be married to him with their future mapped out.

Except things didn't work out that way. Kevin ditched college and signed on as an apprentice for a touring company that staged big shows at convention centers. Now … he wanted to meet the event coordinator about an idea he had for a summer festival.

And she happened to be said coordinator. And he wanted to meet next week. Shit.

Leaning back in her chair, she exhaled slowly. "Not sure if I can deal with seeing him again." He'd broken her heart … and left a few scars behind in the process.

She'd had sporadic updates from his brothers, but they thankfully kept the news to a minimum. And, okay, when Alice ran into his mom at the holiday bazaar, Brenna had mentioned she expected Kevin home soon. But she hadn't said a word about him staying.

Alice snorted. "Not that I would've believed her." And not after Kevin all but said he'd never settle for a tiny, little Podunk town when the whole wide world waited out there for him.

And the worst part? When she mentioned maybe going with him, he'd scoffed. In no uncertain terms, he'd brutally trashed any possibility. His exact words? You'd never leave with me. Even if you did, you wouldn't stay. You lack the imagination it takes to do this kind of work. And vision. Your entire world view exists in this town. Nowhere else.

Her mouth twisted. "But he was wrong." Maybe not about traveling the world.

But she had left Canal Ridge. She went to college in the capital city and lived there for four years. Okay, she hadn't gone far. But she loved living in the city and still enjoyed visiting when she got the chance.

She inhaled deeply. "Maybe it's not Europe or wherever else Kevin ended up working, but it opened my eyes." And sparked her imagination.

She wanted to give back to the community that cared for her and gave her a home. She worked hard to find solutions for small businesses and the limited large companies that provided jobs and revenue for their small town. And she ended up being very good at her job.

Exhaling slowly again, she opened her calendar app and tentatively scheduled two meeting times. "Of course I can deal with seeing him." She got over him a long time ago. "I'll listen to this idea of his and find a way to make it happen." But she wouldn't be the one working with him.

She had a deep well of resources she could pull from. And, no doubt, a bunch of people would volunteer to be part welcoming him home. Which meant she didn't have to be.

Did that sound petty? Maybe. But just because she'd managed to get over their brutal breakup didn't mean she had to interact with him any more than necessary for as long as he'd be here.

Because she didn't believe he'd actually stick around. He'd be home long enough to see this summer festival happen then traipse off to parts unknown again. And good riddance when he did.

After compiling a very professional email, she sent it out through cyberspace. "Okay, Kev. Let's see how you handle a blast from the past."

I think this one is going to be a lot of fun. Alice and Kevin have to get over some preconceived notions about each other and it's interesting to watch that unfold.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Jingle, Jangle, Jingle

What a week. Our weather went completely insane and we got a wild mix of rain and wind. We lost power on Friday afternoon and finally had it restored on Saturday after about eighteen hours. Thankfully, it didn't get super cold overnight.

Work projects are moving along. I finished up the memoir and have two new potential jobs. I'm still working on a proofread and have some final touches to put on a copy edit. I'm hoping to get to a developmental edit that I put on the back burner last month because it's a manuscript that will launch an amazing series.

Had a limited viewing week. I managed to get through a couple of my usual shows but didn't get through my whole slate. Too many things pulling my attention and focus.

Started with My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. Always fun to see Will and the sibling relationship he has with Alexa. Per usual, Madison had some great scenes.

Caught most of an episode of Foyle's War. I'd forgotten he kind of got pulled into the spy scene. Really fun to see his interactions with Sam after her marriage. Kind of bummed they recast the guy who played her fiancé in the previous season.

Watched an episode of Return to Paradise and it's one I remembered. I love the quirky interactions Mackenzie has with everyone but I really, really love when she has to deal with her messy emotions. Watching her apologize to Glen almost physically hurt to observe. Very good moment between them.

Started an episode of Poirot but didn't get a chance to finish it before I crashed. I'll finish it up and start the round of shows again.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Jingle, Jangle, Jingle, a holiday themed novella with a twist on a classic story.

Here's the miniblurb:

Work keeps getting in the way of Felicia Hammond and Marshall Greene being able to spend time together. When Marshall pulls off a holiday vacation package, they're excited to get away together. But Felicia is added to the schedule at the hospital and won't be able to go. Unknown to each other, both try to make the best out of the situation so they can have a happy holiday season.

And a snippety peek…

Felicia entered the house to the incredible aroma of Mamie's Diner food. After the day she'd had, she loved Marshall for thinking of this.

She found him setting the plates on the table. "You want to grab a shower before we eat?" He turned to get two glasses of water with lemon slices in them.

She gave a quick nod. "Yeah, I'll be five minutes." Just long enough to rinse the day off and leave the hospital behind.

Turning the water on, she rubbed at the back of her neck. Normally, when her shift descended into chaos, she could roll with the hits and come up smiling. Not so much today.

Stripping out of her scrubs, she stepped under the spray. "Universe, save me from docs who have to throw entire units off schedule." In his defense … he just transferred from a military hospital, but…

Damn. Did he have to gum up the system and throw everything off kilter?

After soaping up and rinsing off, she twisted the knob off and grabbed her towel. A quick dry down and lotion application followed then she slid into comfortable yoga pants and a T-shirt. The hot water helped ease her tense muscles and the yummy food would soothe the rest of her.

She strolled into the kitchen and settled across from Marshall. "This is awesome. It's been a day." Flashing a smile, she picked up her fork. "What made you think of this?" Tucking into the open-faced roast beef, she met his gaze.

His eyes crinkled. "We're going to the mountains for Christmas. I got an incredible deal on a house because the owners are spending the holidays with family." He scooped up a pile of carrots and shoved them into his mouth.

Felicia blinked. "No way. Seriously?" A week in the mountains sounded amazing.

No hospital. No new doctors to school on protocol. No patient alarms going off.

Marshall nodded. "Yeah, sent a deposit and have the directions and instructions for picking up the key." He grinned.

Felicia sighed. "I can't wait. I'll log in to the employee portal after dinner and put in for the time off." She had two weeks of vacation left and could bank one for the following year.

Marshall grasped her fingers. "Be good to get away for a while. Just the two of us." He lifted his glass with his free hand. "Here's to a merry and bright holiday."

She clinked her cup against his. "Ho, ho, ho." With Thanksgiving around the corner, she had something to look forward to in a few weeks. "I love you for this surprise." She waited a beat. "And dinner."

Marshall waggled his eyebrows. "I know the way to your heart." He squeezed her hand.

Felicia gave him a wicked smile. "And I know the best way to thank you…" Her gaze went to their bedroom.

Marshall's lips kicked up on one side. "Then we'd better finish eating so we've got energy to burn."

Felicia laughed and dug back into the succulent roast beef.

This is a fun one to write. Marshall and Felicia are a cool couple.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Jack in the Box

Whew. Long week filled with so many things going on. And, of course, weird weather. I also didn't sleep well at all … probably due to the upcoming time change. It's like my body and brain knows it's coming and tries to resist accordingly.

Ohio started the week with cold weather then warmed up to seventy degrees yesterday. We also had a lot of rain. Which gave us a lot of foggy mornings. Bleh.

Work projects are less backlogged than they were. I mostly finished up the developmental edit on the memoir, which feels good. A few small things left then it's off for a copy edit and proofread. This is such a great book! Also finished up a copy edit and started a new one. The new one is first person, which I'm not fond of. I also started a new proofreading project on a nonfiction book. I love being busy!

Had a decent viewing week. Made it through my usual slate of shows and did a little binge watching when I needed some background noise.

Started off with another episode of My Life Is Murder. Very fun to see a familiar face in the guest stars. One of the things I love about watching shows from New Zealand and Australia are the amazing actors who pop up frequently.

Ended up watching another Foyle's War episode instead of finishing the previous one. It's one of my favorites and finished out the season. Looking forward to starting a new season this week.

Caught another episode of Return to Paradise and enjoyed watching it. Mackenzie trying to find her footing while avoiding the landmines of being back home is kind of compelling. And the supporting cast is fun.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I like it when it's actually kind of easy to figure out the who then watch how the what and why happen.

Elementary had another great episode. I'm very interested in Joan's relationship with her former patient. My hope is he ends up not falling back into old and bad habits. The case also ended up being interesting with a twist or two I didn't expect.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and it's one I only partially remember. It's a two-part episode and I'm looking forward to the resolution.

Star Trek: Lower Decks had a great episode. It's always fun to see rivalries pop up and to learn interesting things about the other characters. The relaxation planet thread of the story ended up being very entertaining.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Jack in the Box, a novella about a couple trying to find their work-life balance.

Here's the miniblurb:

Carter Gill can't say no when someone needs a favor, which isn't a bad thing until he overextends, doesn't seem to have enough hours in the day, and his relationship with April Walters suffers. April understands and supports Carter's need to help people, but she has to convince him to slow down a little if only to avoid cracking under the pressure.

And a snippety peek…

Carter just finished wiping down the bar and drew April into his arms. "Ready to head up to the loft?" His lips grazed her forehead.

She tilted her chin. "Definitely. Been a long day for you." Her tone didn't chastise, which he appreciated.

He leaned in and meshed their lips together. A lick of guilt pinched in his gut. He owed her for skipping out on their trail walk earlier.

His hand cupped her face and his thumb stroked over her skin.

A yelp sounded behind them. "Whoops!" Dinah, one of his second-floor tenants poked her head into the bar. "Bad timing. I'll come back later…" She winced.

Carter sighed but angled his head around. "What's up? Has to be important if you're down here at three a.m." Hopefully, nothing major.

Dinah grimaced. "Not sure you'll think so, but Drew dropped his action figure in the sink, and it slid down into the disposal. He's freaking out because he thinks the disposal will eat his toy." She ran a hand through her hair. "And he won't go to sleep because he's worried about it." Her exhausted tone indicated she'd lost the battle with her five-year-old.

Carter glanced at April. Not the way he'd planned to make things up to her.

She gave a small shrug. "Up to you. I don't blame Drew for being scared. The garbage disposal sounds like a hungry monster." She pushed away from him and gathered the cleaning gear then left the bar without a backward glance.

Carter frowned. Another interruption and another moment lost. How much longer until they had time for them? Or … more like he had time for them.

Dinah made a squeaking sound. "Damn. I'm sorry, Carter. Should've let Drew sleep by the sink like he wanted to instead of bugging you with this right now."

Carter shook his head. "No, it's okay. Part of being the owner is taking care of my tenants. You guys are great, and Drew is such a good kid." He flipped the lights off and met Dinah at the steps. "Let me grab my tools, and I'll be right up."

She gave a nod and headed up the stairs. Carter ducked into the kitchen, hoping to find April but only the light over the sink greeted him. His shoulders slumped, and he entered the office to grab his toolbox then went up to the second floor, gently knocking on Dinah's door. She let him in and he barely crossed the threshold before Drew wrapped his arms around Carter's legs.

The little guy had a tear-streaked face but gave Carter a trembly smile. "My mom says you're gonna get my guy from the sink. Are you?"

Carter ruffled Drew's hair. "Gonna do my best, little man. Wanna come help?" If the kid wouldn't go to bed without knowing the fate of his toy, he might as well watch Carter work. Drew looked toward his mom. "Can I? Please."

Dinah tilted her head toward the kitchen. "Go ahead. But as soon as the toy is out, your butt is going straight to bed."

Drew's head bobbed up and down. "Okay, Mom. I promise." He led the way.

Carter followed and set his toolbox on the floor then pulled a flashlight from one of the side compartments. Holding the flaps open, he sent a stream of light down the drain. An arm reached upward, which meant this might be an easy grab and go situation. He hoped. Dinah sat at the table and pulled Drew onto her lap. Carter opened his kit and grabbed some needle nose pliers.

Those didn't work, but Carter got creative and used some putty, rolling it into a ball and sticking that on the end of the pliers. After two tries, he got the action figure out of the disposal. Rinsing it off, he turned to find both mom and son asleep at the table.

With a gentle nudge, he woke Dinah. "Got the guy. Better get your little man to bed."

She yawned and stood up with Drew in her arms. "Thanks, Carter. I'm so sorry I interrupted you and April."

Carter lifted a shoulder. "No problem. Glad we averted a tragedy here." He handed the figure to Dinah then gathered up his toolkit and headed out.

He made the climb up to the loft and let himself inside. April had left the small lights running along the top of the walls on, and he turned them off on his way to the bedroom. He'd hoped she'd be waiting up for him.

No such luck. He found her curled up on her side dead to the world. Shedding his clothes, he spooned up behind her and pressed a kiss to her temple. Tomorrow, he'd get up and make breakfast with all of her favorites.

The least he could do…

Carter needs to learn he can't be all things to all people. April might end up helping him figure it out.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Inked (a Black Unicorn Comics bonus)

Geez, I can't believe we're into March. February ended up being a complete blur for me. Then again, it's such a short month, even if I think it's weird how two or three days can make such a big difference.

Ohio weather is still acting like a drunk toddler. Warm one day, cold the next. Snow. Rain. Sunny skies. I am excited that it's getting light earlier, especially when I have to leave at six thirty to play taxi service.

Work projects are still rather backlogged. Well, maybe not backlogged more like stacking one on top of the other. I love being busy, but I have to admit, I've been a little overwhelmed lately. Then again, it's a good problem to have.

My viewing stayed on course for the most part. I made it through most of my usual shows. I've been itching to start something new but haven't quite decided what I want to watch yet.

Started the week with the fifth-season premiere of My Life Is Murder and once again, this show doesn't disappoint. Such a fun episode.

Watched most of an episode of Foyle's War. It's one I remembered and I enjoyed it, but kept getting distracted so I'll finish it up this week.

Another newish show for me is Return to Paradise. I've watched most of the first season but not in order, so I started the series from episode one.

Caught another episode of Poirot and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and seeing Poirot in his native surroundings.

Elementary ended up being a fun watch. I like it when Sherlock and Joan are on opposite sides of an issue but aren't nasty about it. And the case they solved was really interesting.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and remembered it after I got started on it. I enjoy seeing how far Terry has come since the beginning of the series.

Star Trek: Lower Decks had a great episode. Kendi is such a fun character and I love her. Also great to see Boimler, Mariner, and Rutherford in action together. It's been a while since they had a good adventure.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Inked, a bonus episode of the Black Unicorn Comics series.

Here's the miniblurb:

Brian and Lucy are celebrating their anniversary, and both have the same idea of getting a tattoo as a fun gift—but neither tells the other. The good news is both enjoy discovering where the other got inked.

And a snippety peek…

Brian Wells glanced up when Randy and Reg entered from the breakroom. "Thanks for meeting me here." He rolled his chair back from his desk and nodded to the two he'd brought over from the spare work spaces.

Reg held up a pack of hard cider. "Brought refreshments." He set the bottles on Brian's desk. "What are we here for, mate?" Slumping into a chair, he heaved a sigh.

Randy smirked. "Think it's past his bedtime." He bypassed the empty seat and hopped up on long, low shelving unit instead.

Reg gave Randy a side-eye. "When Ana can't sleep because the kid's moving around all night, I suffer with her." His lips quirked. "Least I can do since she's the one who's doing all the work right now."

Brian chuckled. "Have a feeling you'll both be in for it once the wee, little one arrives." Not long now either.

Reg pulled a bottle from the six-pack and twisted off the cap. "What's up, mate? We coulda met at the pub." He took a long swallow then kicked back in the chair.

Brian pulled two more ciders out and handed one to Randy. "Yeah, not for this. I needed someplace quiet and, well, private." He opened his brew and took a drink then leaned forward to rest his forearms on his legs. "You know Lucy and I are celebrating an anniversary soon, yeah?"

Randy lifted his chin. "Lemme guess, you wanna throw a surprise party?"

Reg snorted. "No. First, Lucy hates surprises." He shook his head. "Second, Brian is terrible at pulling them off."

Only his best friend could nail the truth so bluntly.

Brian shrugged. "Yeah, not my thing. And he's right about Lucy hating them." He grinned. "But I'm gonna surprise her anyway. Just not with a party." He looked from one guy to the other, letting the suspense build.

Reg broke first. "You sure this is a good idea?" He took another long pull from the cider.

Brian narrowed his gaze. "You don't know what the idea is yet."

Randy downed half his bottle. "Then get with the letting us in, so we either help, talk you out of it, or prepare for battle."

Brian laughed. "Yeah, yeah, okay." He let one more moment go by then spilled his idea. "Think I'm gonna get a tattoo, something kick-ass that has meaning for us."

Randy hopped up and slapped Brian on the shoulder. "That's a great idea!" He glanced toward Reg. "I'm team help Brian make this happen."

Reg pursed his lips for a moment then whipped out his phone. "I like this idea … but let's see what Ana thinks. She'll give us the woman's perspective." He fired off a quick text.

Brian held up a hand. "You gotta swear her to secrecy."

Reg rolled his eyes. "I will. I will. Let's see what she says first." A ping sounded and he opened the message. "She gives her approval." He typed a reply then set his device aside. "What're you thinking? For the tattoo?"

Brian rolled his shoulders. "Not sure yet." He met Randy's gaze. "Who do you recommend? And will they have something I can choose from?" He literally had no idea what he wanted.

Randy's head bobbed up and down. "I have an artist and, yeah, they've got art or you can do something custom. When are you thinking of having it done?" He finished off his cider and opened another one.

Brian huffed out a breath. "Don't know. Soonish? And we gotta keep this under wraps."

Randy hand-waved Brian's concern. "I got it. We'll schedule in my name and I'll be the go-between. Give a day or two to get some dates." He got his phone and opened his contacts.

Reg took the remaining two bottles of cider and opened them. "Here's to Brian's plan to surprise Lucy." He held clicked edges with Brian and Randy.

They finished off the drinks then cleaned up and headed for the back exit.

Unseen and unknown, Harry had been working in the darkroom and overheard the guys talking. His brain exploded with ideas for Brian's tattoo. Ducking back into his space, he sat at this table and started drawing…

I'm having so much fun with this bonus scene. I love Brian and Lucy so much.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin