Sunday Snippet: Indecision

I'm happy to say I managed to pull off a surprise birthday celebration for my husband with the help of our daughter and a few other very good and awesome friends. I held it at the elementary school where he works as a custodian and surprisingly got everything and everyone in to the cafeteria without him finding out. I'm so happy we surprised him!

That party capped off a very busy week between trying to figure out what the weather is going to do from one moment to the next and work projects dropping from the sky to not feeling the greatest because of said weather. We're gearing up for some additional snow so that should be fun.

As mentioned, work projects are piling up and I'm happy to be busy. I have a good mix of genres at the moment and I enjoy the variety. I should have two finished up this week and two more starting. I'm excited and hope this trend continues!

Had an okay week of viewing. I managed to get through my usual schedule of shows and caught a little more of the Olympics. I'm not a rabid fan, but I do enjoy amazing athletes compete for their countries.

Started the week with Midsomer Murders and finished up season 25. I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this season. The writing kind of blew me away and the humorous moments made me happy. More of this please!

Caught the premiere episode of Foyle's War season seven and it's one I remembered. I do miss the sergeant and kind of hope he ends up showing up again.

Finished season twenty-eight of Silent Witness and I love ending on the wedding on Jack and Nikki with the hint of where they'll be going in the next season. The new team is amazing, and I'm thrilled they'll be sticking around.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot and loved how Hastings and Poirot were concerned about Miss Lemon but ended up not having to be because of a cat.

Elementary had another great episode. Kind of fun to see Sherlock wake Joan up with a violin. I also think Sherlock nudging Gregson to get married actually made sense. Sherlock's awkwardness always makes me smile.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and it isn't the last one of the series. I have several more to watch before having to decide which show to pick up next.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and rather enjoyed the new vibe between the characters. I have to admit, I'm kind of meh about the Ransom character. We'll see if he grows on me the way Beckett did.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Indecision, a new adult novella that explores making new friends and potentially more in college.

Here's the miniblurb:

Shandi Rhobles meets Forrest Cox during her first semester of college. By their second week in, they're flirty friends but Shandi shies away from a relationship. When their semester ends, Forrest is tired of waiting in the wings and Shandi realizes her indecision comes with a price.

And a snippety peek…

Forrest ended up in Finney and found his room without too much trouble. "Number 209." He pushed the door open and discovered it empty. "Wonder if I'll have a roommate?" He'd checked no preference when he'd filled out the living accommodation form.

The two beds and desks along with two dressers suggested he would be sharing.

Dumping his backpack on one of the beds, he nodded. He liked the space. Finney hall had a recent renovation, and the dorm rooms didn't completely look like prison cells. With five stories, he appreciated being on the second level. Based on the welcome packet, this coed hall had single-sex bathrooms with showers on alternating floors … with the exception of the third that had the student lounge equipped with televisions, game tables, and microwave stations.

Glancing at the door, his gaze narrowed. Two index-card sized nameplates were attached to the inside. One had Forrest's name and the other had Benji Sutton.

He nodded. "Guess I do have a roommate." Should he wait until the guy showed up or just pick a side and start unpacking?

He opted to at least get all his stuff and drag it up and into the space.

Of course, everyone else had to do the same thing, which meant utter chaos in the hallways. At least most of his fellow dormmates were in good spirits and cooperating with each other. He made his way down the stairs and jogged out to his car to start on the first load.

An hour later, after three treks up and down the steps, he had the last of his car unloaded and pondered whether he should make one or two trips.

He huffed out a breath. "Ugh. Gonna do it in one. Can't deal with fighting my way up the steps two more times." He thought about taking the elevator, but the line put that idea out of his head.

He grabbed the set of plastic drawers that would fit under his bed and balanced the laundry basket filled with towels and bedding on top. He had two bags filled with toiletries in one and a six pack of soda with snacks in the other. He put the bags over his wrists then picked up the other two items. The basket listed a little to the left and he adjusted his grip and started forward. A horn beeped and he stopped short, the basket sliding precariously close to the edge.

He quickly backed up. "Shit." He moved too fast and started to lose his hold on the drawers.

"Whoa! I got you." Two hands snagged the laundry bin and removed it before it fell. "Oh! Hi again."

Forrest blinked in surprise, happy to see the girl he'd collided with earlier. "Hey … Shandi, right?" He got a better handle on the drawers. "Thanks for the assist. Are you in Finney also?" He fell into step beside her and they crossed the parking lot.

She nodded. "Yeah, fourth floor. Which is a haul today, but the view is actually pretty great. I can see most of the campus from my window." Holding the door open, she waited for him to walk through before following him up the steps.

He gave a low whistle. "Glad to say I'm on the next level up. Did you wait in line for the elevators?" He nudged past another student on their way down the stairs.

Shandi laughed. "No way. I brought the bare essentials up for now. I plan to wait until it's almost dark before I start dragging the rest of my stuff up." Her eyebrows arched. "Which room are you in?"

He tilted his chin toward the left. "Two oh nine. Door should be unlocked." He'd brought his tech stuff—television, laptop, charging station, and minifridge—up on the first trip.

Shandi twisted the knob but paused. "Should I knock? Do you have a roommate?"

Forrest shook his head. "I'm supposed to, but they haven't arrived yet." He guessed Benji could've come while he'd been out, but kind of doubted it.

Shandi pushed the heavy wood slab open and held it for Forrest. He ducked inside the room and quickly set the drawers down and got rid of the bags. He reached for the basket. Shandi handed it over and glanced around the space.

One side looked like a bomb went off and the other still had the pristine shine of being unoccupied.

Shandi's lips curved. "Looks a lot like mine … except I have a single." She met his gaze. "I'm not sure if that means I'm lucky or not."

Forrest shrugged. "I didn't really have a preference. I have siblings so I'm used to sharing space." He wouldn't mind having the solitude but figured anyone aside from his brothers could be fun to have around.

Shandi laughed. "Same. Not sure I'll know what to do with all the quiet time I'll have."

Forrest liked her sense of humor and hoped to get to know her better. She had striking features, something his mom always said when classic beauty didn't fit but the attractiveness level pinged hard. And it wailed like a siren for him right now.

Scrambling around for something to say, an idea popped into his head. "Can you use some help bringing your stuff in later?"

Her eyes widened. "Oh, you don't have to do that."

He grinned. "I know. But stop by if you can use some … or if you just want some company while trekking back and forth."

She tilted her head to one side. "I just might do that." Turning, she headed for the door. "No worries if you're not here, though." Stepping out into the hallway, she gave him a quick wave.

He lifted his chin. "Okay."

He would definitely be around for sure.

This one is in the beginning stages and I'm excited to see where it goes. I love these characters.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Incursion

Halfway through the month and it's nonstop gangbusters. I'm planning a super-secret thing I can't talk about for this Friday. I seriously hope I can pull this off.

The weather is warming up a little, so the snow is finally melting. That also means it's muddy and squishy outside during the day and slippery and slidey at night. I have a pond in my driveway when it's sunny and an ice rink when it gets dark.

Work projects are steady and still coming. I finished up a nightmare project—I hope—and I'm glad to move on from that one. Completed a copy edit and started a new one. Had some hourly editorial review work I started and finished this week. I had another one going that I'm making headway on and I'm finishing up a developmental edit, which I hope to have completed by next week. I also have a backburner project that I need to jump back into. All in all … yeah, it's been busy.

I did manage to get through my usual slate of shows. I even watched some of the Olympic events, but I'm not really following anyone or anything. The skeleton events fascinate me. My idea of fun is definitely not jumping on a tiny sled while going seventy-plus miles—headfirst—down an icy super-slide of death. That said, kudos to the athletes who make it look easy. And scary.

Started the week with Midsomer Murders and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. I've been waiting for this one, because the previews were intriguing. Death by cuckoo clock is a wild way to go. Just saying.

Finished up season six of Foyle's War, and I'd forgotten how bleak the end of the war ended up being for everyone. I mean there was obviously a call for celebration, but the uncertainty for all the characters, or most of them, is very strong.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and quite enjoyed Jack and Nikki realizing they don't have a lot of friends outside of their work. I'm very interested in the little beat about Nikki maybe leaving the Lyell to start a new facility. That could prove interesting for next season.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. It's always fun when Miss Lemon saves the day with research. And really nice to see Poirot support a young woman's dreams.

Elementary ended up being very interesting. I love how much Joan wants to help her former patient, but she also didn't discount the aunt's concerns. And Sherlock's ruthless takedown of the CEO ended up being a chef's kiss moment.

Caught another Batman Beyond episode and I believe I'm near the end of the series run. Not sure what I'll pick up next, but I might dive into another Batman series.

Watched the opening episode for season three of Star Trek: Lower Decks and thoroughly enjoyed seeing Beckett interact with her dad. Also loved seeing everyone else in civilian mode. Season three should be a fun ride.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Incursion, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt about second chances.

Here's the miniblurb:

Marlie Davenport is wary of being on the team for Trace Altessa's protection detail. Sparks fly for a second time with her former coworker and flame, but a different powder keg is set to explode when Marlie discovers an infiltration within the private security company and teams up with Trace to thwart their planned incursion.

And a snippety peek…

Marlie Davenport reread the memo on her phone. "No fucking way." She absolutely would not, could not, accept this assignment.

Sometimes working for a top-level security firm sucked balls.

She made a U-turn in the corridor and headed for the stairs to go down two levels. "Not waiting for the elevator. I'm too damned pissed to share space with anyone right now." And the constant momentum would keep her from punching something.

Questions crowded her mind. What the hell is Frank thinking? She'd worked for Frank Banyon and First Tier Security Solutions long enough for him to know she wouldn't take this assignment on. Why the hell did her CO think she'd be cool with … ah, damn. The realization dawned right about the time she hit the seventh-floor stairwell and the level she needed.

Frank sent a memo because he already clocked what my reaction would be.

She yanked the door open and stepped into the carpeted hallway. "Smart man. But not smart enough." He probably hoped she'd read her new assignment at home and have some time to cool down before confronting him.

She snorted. "No such luck, Frank." Staying late to finish up a report didn't seem so bad now.

Whizzing past a few of her coworkers with barely a nod of recognition, she burst through the reception area and thanked the universe the two admins were busy elsewhere or gone for the day. Stalking down another long corridor, she didn't pause outside the door to Frank's office. Instead, she rapped twice on the hard wood, pulled the door open, and sailed into his space.

His head barely lifted from the intrusion before she waved her phone back and forth. "Find someone else for this job. I refuse to head up Trace Alterra's security detail." Planting her feet a should width apart, she squarely met his gaze. "And you know why. This is a terrible, awful, horrible betrayal on multiple levels." Her skin itched with anger and dread.

Frank closed his laptop and leaned back in his seat. "It's been two years, Marlie. And I need my best on this."

She shook her head. "Trace used to be your best. He could train his own security detail." And leave her out of it.

She had no desire to get tangled up in whatever Trace had going on. Less than zero desire to ever see him again. Not after he'd left First Tier. Because he'd also left her. They'd had a good thing going and he just … walked away.

Frank steepled his fingers. "There's no time for him to train anyone up to our level." Scooting back, he pressed a button to dim the lights in the room.

Marlie scoffed. "It's been two years." The sarcasm came through loud and clear in her tone.

Frank only arched an eyebrow. "Are you through?"

She shrugged. "Probably not. But I'll chill for now." She couldn't promise she'd stay that way.

Frank gave a nod. "Good. Even if Trace had the time to train a team—which he doesn't—he'd still need someone outside the company." A blank virtual screen projected on the wall above his head. "And this is why…" A series of communications popped up, four shown side-by-side.

Marlie narrowed her gaze, quickly scanning the documents. "Death threats?" Those could be faked, but yeah, that showed things had already escalated to red levels.

Frank grunted. "Trace is in talks to merge with another company, one that at least two other companies want." He shuffled the image and a new one appeared.

Marlie reviewed the business names. None of them sounded familiar, which meant unknown quantities.

She frowned. "Look, even if there's a bidding war or underhanded tactics being used, it's nothing he shouldn't be able to handle, even with the threats." Getting her involved might prove to be a huge mistake.

Her history with him took up too much space in her mind. She hadn't forgiven or forgotten anything.

She waited until Frank brought the lights back up before laying her cards on the table. "Look, I don't want to be on this detail. And I certainly don't want to be the team lead." She might be okay with handling background and research.

From the safe location of being nowhere near Trace Altressa.

Frank sighed. "I'm gonna have to overrule you on this. Trace specifically asked for you. He doesn't trust anyone else."

Marlie closed her eyes and counted to five. "Fine. If that's how this has to be, I'll be meeting with him right away."

And she'd do whatever it took to damn well change his mind.

This one is in the beginning stages, but I'm so excited to see where things go.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: In Support of Defense

February is going to be a wild month. It's already shorter than average and my project load is intense plus I have two birthdays hitting a week apart. A big one for the husband, which involves a super-secret aspect that's challenging to pull off.

Ohio is still deep into its cold spell, which I'm actually okay with. We're also still digging out of the huge snowfall we got last week. It's hilarious that I get stuck in my own driveway. But I do.

As mentioned, work projects are falling out of the sky right now and that's not a bad thing. But it is a bit of a hurdle to manage making sure they're all getting the attention they need. I'd love to have about five more hours each day.

Had a better than normal viewing week. Some of my projects involve tedious busywork, and it's nice to have something on in the background. I even got to one of my back-burner shows.

Started off with Midsommer Murders and thoroughly enjoyed the episode. It also made me want to take up lawn bowling. I remember playing something like that, along with croquet, when little.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and it's one I remembered well from the original watch. I have one more episode in the sixth season and I'm looking forward to watching it this week.

Watched the second half of Silent Witness and whew! So many twists and turns. And, of course, the obnoxious asshat is the actual target … yet somehow manages to come through partially unscathed. Really loved the team doing what they needed to do regardless of the consequences.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. Loved how he got a chance to revisit a murder he wasn't allowed to solve the first time. Lots of twisty turns.

Elementary didn't disappoint with the opening of the fifth season. I love that Joan probably saved her former patient by offering a helping hand. Also love that Sherlock recognized she needed something more.

Caught another episode of Batman Beyond and kind of loved the teamwork with Gotham PD and taking down the poacher. I'd forgotten about this episode.

Watched the season two finale of Star Trek: Lower Decks and, wow, what a way to end the season. Looking forward to catching what happens next.

Also started another episode of Peak Practice. It's painful to watch Sam completely fall from grace. I might end up forwarded through some of it because it hurts to watch.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from In Support of Defense, a follow-up to Justice Is Served.

Here's the miniblurb:

Arnie Cherlin seeks help from his boss, Derby Stack, and asks her to use Overwatch resources to help his best friend's sister, whose gambling debts are causing trouble. Cricket Lexiss doesn't want Arnie's help, thinking she can handle her problem alone. But when her brother is murdered and her life threatened, she turns to Arnie, which puts him in a tricky place because in spite of blaming her for her brother's death, he's falling for her. Yet he needs to keep his distance to remain objective.

And a snippety peek…

Cricket barely waited for Ben to close the front door before she charged up behind him. "I hate you. I really, really hate you." Pissed off because he decided to stick his nose where it didn't belong … and drag someone else into the mix … she jabbed a finger in his chest. "I came in on the tail-end of that lovely little conversation. You're an ass, Ben. I came to you because I trusted you." She gave him an angry glare. "No one else. You had no business talking about my issues with anyone else." No one else needed to be involved.

Way too dangerous for her peace of mind.

Ben pushed back. "I'm in over my head, Crick. I'm an associate professor at a state university. You're a nurse … or you used to be before Lincoln got his hooks into you." He planted his hands on his hips and squared off with her.

Cricket gnashed her teeth together. "Still, my personal life isn't something to be shared with anyone else, best friend or not." Damn, how long had it been since she'd seen Arnie?

Long enough for him to fill out and pack on an impressive amount of muscle. Arnie Cherlin all grown up made her wish she'd walked a straighter path. The man hit a lot of her sweet spots. The close-cropped hair proved to be a far cry from the mane he'd had in school. Then again, he'd left for the air force before she'd even graduated. And way before her party-girl persona kicked and took over her life.

She didn't think she could stop if she wanted to. And she didn't want to. The allure of everything bad for her gave off such a heady thrill.

Straight-arrow Ben tried to understand but so didn't.

Ben snapped his fingers in front of her face. "Did you hear what I said?" He made an exasperated sound low in his throat.

Cricket blinked. "What? No. Don't really care either." She turned away, unwilling to let him off the hook. "You crossed a line. I'm so pissed at you, right now." And she'd stay that way because being angry helped her cope with how far she'd fallen.

Ben grasped her upper arm. "Crick. I said you've gotta let me help the only way I know how." He moved to stand in front of her again. "I'm not equipped to take on a motorcycle club that's up to its shitkickers in illegal activity—"

She cut in. "What exactly do you think Arnie Cherlin can do? He's one guy, Ben." A really hot guy, but a great-looking man got her into this mess in the first place.

Ben raked a hand over his hair. "One guy who has connections I'll never have." He turned and paced back and forth. "I actually don't know what he does … exactly … but I know he's got resources you and I don't have." He let out a long sigh. "I'm scared for you, Cricket. You said you can't cover your losses, and they're not gonna wait until I turn thirty and can access the trust our parents left us."

Yet another thing that lit her fire right up. Ben's mom married her dad after Ben's died. They had her a year later. But her dad treated Ben as his own and put him in charge of distributing the trust they set up. She didn't think much of it at the time because who thought their parents would die in a car accident? Even as a nurse who worked in a busy emergency department, she never once considered the idea they'd be gone before she figured life out.

Ben threw his hands out. "Do you have anyone else you can turn to?"

Guilt rippled through her. She'd brought this on herself. Damn Lincoln for showing her the high stakes underground. And damn her for being drawn to guys like Lincoln for a hot minute before she woke up and realized how terrible they were.

Cricket shook her head. "You know I don't. And I get you're afraid something will happen to me, but bringing in someone else won't help." She didn't want to owe anyone but Ben once she got out of this mess.

If she got out of it.

Ben shrugged. "Look, if nothing else, talk to Arnie." He retrieved his phone from his pocket and typed on the screen.

Her device pinged with an incoming text.

Ben met her gaze. "Put my mind at ease, Crick. Please."

Cricket frowned. "Fine. I'll talk to him." When Ben's shoulders slumped with relief, another wave of guilt edged through her.

Because she planned to tell Arnie Cherlin to mind his own damn business and stay out of hers.

This story is coming together in a way I didn't expect. The ideas are popping and I love that.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: In Sunny Paradise

Man, January felt like it flew by but also seemed like it lasted a full decade. It's so weird how that happens. It could also be because I've been fighting a yucky cold and I'm not enjoying that at all.

Ohio has been in the longest cold spell I can remember. Highs only in the teens and lows in the single digits or below zero. Usually, we'll get that for a day or three. But this has been going on for over a week. At least I haven't had to go out much and deal with the brutal temperatures.

Had a fairly busy work week. Finished up the romantasy copy edit and did a little more on the manuscript that needed TLC. I'm digging into the memoir and getting it ready for a copy edit by another editor. I struggled through endnote hell with my regular author's project. Weirdly, I've had significantly more projects with footnotes or endnotes lately. It's not a trend I enjoy, but it's a new challenge, which I do like.

Had an okay viewing week. I made it through a full round of shows, which included starting a new season of one of my regulars. If possible, I might try to add a random backburner show this week.

Started season twenty-five of Midsommer Murders, and the opening episode didn't disappoint. Someone mentioned on BlueSky that this season is filled with humorous moments and that makes me so happy. Looking forward to more.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War with the opening of season six. A full year passed with Christopher no longer working as a policeman. Of course, he got sucked back in and the team is back together.

Watched the first of a two-part Silent Witness and, whew, what an episode. I have a fairly good idea of where this one is going and it's not pretty. Nikki is going to have her hands full when she's back at the Lyell.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I love how many pursuits Hastings has. Hunting, golf, driving, and of course, working with Poirot. And Miss Lemon is a true gem.

Elementary ended it's fourth season with an interesting twist. I kind of enjoyed the whole Moreland Holmes arc. I'm looking forward to what season five brings to the table.

Watched another Batman Beyond and it's one I remembered. Bruce's dip in the Lazarus pool made a great episode, especially with being able to fight off a group of thugs with Terry. Such a fun episode.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and enjoyed it. Very fun to see Klingon and Vulcan lower deck crews. And the end scene with the Borg lower deck was kind of funny.

And that's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from In Sunny Paradise, a sexy short following the adventures of Jersey and Shaw.

Here's the miniblurb:

Jersey and Shaw survived hell to be together and celebrated their love with a quiet ceremony, a rowdy reception, and a moonlit wedding night. Now they're on their honeymoon at a secluded beach in sunny paradise.

And a snippety peek…

Shaw didn't mind when Jersey roused him from sleep … especially when she was naked. Now was no exception. Her mouth was hot against his and her tongue, with wicked precision, woke up his body, mind, and senses. She never failed. Jersey always made him hungry for more.

He lifted his hips and shoved his shorts down. Grinned when Jersey took over, dragging them down to his knees so he could kick them off. "You been up long?" He had no idea what time it was, but it wasn't morning.

She shook her head. "About an hour."

He quickly shrugged out of his shirt and made room for her on the lounge. Then, cupping her face, he kissed her thoroughly. "I'm glad you woke me up." Shifting a little, he settled them back against the cushions.

Jersey grabbed his arm and tucked it around her side. "'Cause I'm naked or because it's afternoon?" She shot him a sly look.

He didn't have to answer … she knew he loved the naked part. Hell, they both did. One of the best things about this place was the privacy they had. They couldn't lie outside in the middle of the day like this at home.

His breath rasped out when Jersey smoothed her hand over his thigh and palmed his semi-erect penis. "You're insatiable." She had been since they'd arrived in Mexico. "Not that I'm complaining." And he wasn't, but after their exertions last night … it surprised him he was even capable of getting hard.

Jersey pressed a kiss against his chest then brushed her lips over his shoulder. "I'm pretty sure I've figured out why." She turned toward him and straddled his lap, settling down on his thighs. "Remember how everyone asked when we'd start a family … and what our answer was?"

Shaw's mouth went dry and he was afraid to breathe. "That we'd cross that bridge when got there? Yeah … I remember." He nodded, waiting for her to continue.

Jersey raised her gaze to his. "We're … uh … there."

He couldn't name all the emotions he saw in her eyes, but he felt every one of them. "So … you're—I mean—we're…" Why couldn't he get his tongue to form the words? "Are you—" The look on his face had to be priceless, but Jersey didn't keep him hanging.

She laughed and nodded. "I am … we are." Ready or not they were going to have a kid.

His face lit up and his breath whooshed out. "Holy shit, Jersey." He hauled her to him, trying not to crush her in his excitement. An image of her, stomach rounded with their child, flashed through his mind and his body responded. "Fuck me."

Her husky laughter filled his ears. "I think that can be arranged." She moved forward, pressing herself against his erection, wet and ready for him.

He wanted to bury himself inside her until they both came apart, but his hands went to her hips, stopping them. "Wait." At her confused expression, he gently touched his forehead to hers. "I love you." He looked down and slid his thumbs forward to make circular motions over the place he thought their child rested. He raised his gaze and his voice went thick with emotion. "I love both of you."

This series doesn't have an official name yet, but it's so much fun writing it.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: In a Moonlit Meadow

Whew. We got hit with a ton of snow last night and this morning. About fourteen inches. My county is under a rare level three snow emergency. I had to drive out this morning and, it wasn't horrible but I definitely drove slowly. And we only had about seven inches at that point. So glad I don't have to go out anymore today.

Had a crazy-busy work week. A project came back that needed some extra TLC after numerous author revisions. I'm still working on the memoir, and I started a new project with one of my regular authors. Also working on a long romantasy novel and hitting the series book when I can.

Had a slower week of viewing with everything else going on. Prepping for the snowstorm took up some time and I needed to focus on the work stuff.

I did watch Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears. I thoroughly enjoyed this fan-backed movie project. A very cool way to cap the series.

Also caught an episode of Foyle's War that finished out the fifth season. I'd completely forgotten Foyle actually resigned from the police force. Looking forward to starting the next season.

Finished up the second half of Silent Witness. Again, the twists and turns were amazing. So many red herrings. And a side story that ended up being compelling.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. This one had an interesting side plot with Miss Lemon that I loved.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from In a Moonlit Meadow, a peek into the life retired security experts who finally got on the same page.

Here's the miniblurb:

Jersey Saint and Shaw Barnaby, private security agents undercover as journalists, survive a terrible ordeal—being held captive by a hostile regime—and realize they're meant to be together. It only took a full decade of getting everything wrong to finally get things right. They don't waste time after they're rescued—they commit to spending their future together in a moonlit meadow.

And a snippety peek…

Jersey Saint slid her feet into some leather sandals then fixed her windblown hair in the mirror of the truck. I just got married to Shaw Barnaby. Her lips curved while she tried the whole wife thing on and really liked it. Who knew?

Shaw. Shaw knew they were meant to be together. And being his wife wouldn't be the end of being her.

She glanced toward her new husband. His hip rested against the truck, one arm propped on the hood. He still took her breath away … even after ten years and more ups and downs of all the combined mountain ranges in the United States. And maybe Europe.

Her mouth curved. "And yet he stuck." Even when she drove him mad, led him on a merry chase, and almost got them killed. Twice.

The other two times were mostly on him. Not that they were keeping score. It just so happened that the four times they almost died were split down the middle.

Dangerous situations brought out the best—and sometimes the worst—in them. No one ever said making decisions under duress would be easy. Or good for relationships. Then again, nothing brought a couple closer together than facing death. At least it worked for them.

Finally.

She pushed away from the truck. "And now we're done with the insanity of traveling to hot spots to cover someone else's ass." Closing the door, she smiled when Shaw walked around to meet her.

He grasped her hips. "Ready to head in?" His gaze drifted to the sprawling ranch house his dad lived in.

Jersey nodded. "I am." She glanced toward the yard filled with cars. "Your dad went all out, didn't he?" Sheppard Barnaby did nothing by half measure.

Like making sure he got his son and favorite former trainee—namely her—out of their three-month ordeal.

Shaw's lips quirked. "He's still a little put out it took so long to get a team organized." He rested his forehead against hers. "But he's also so damn grateful we're back. So, yeah, he planned a big gathering." He eased back then caught her mouth with his.

Jersey sank into the kiss. She could do that now. Show him how much she loved him.

And show herself how to be happy.

Shaw nuzzled her throat. "Wish we could skip this part?" Meaning the whole mingling with people and making small talk.

She laced their fingers together and started for the house. "Nah. We've got a lifetime spread out in front of us." And she really didn't mind sharing him for a while.

Because they promised each other forever.

And the universe is pleased.

This series is a lot of fun to write. Jersey and Shaw have it bad for each other and finally getting their ducks lined up is amazing for them.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Imagination

Whew. What a week. Between everything going on in the US, most of which is terrible, and the yucky weather, I'm exhausted. One of my goals for this year is to take better care of myself, so I'm making some plans to do that. Getting better sleep is topping the list right now.

Work projects are stacking up and I'm happy to be busy. February is shaping up to be another good month for editing! I also have two birthdays to prepare for and one of them is a big one!

Had a decent week of viewing. I made it through my usual shows even though I tried to get to bed earlier than usual.

Finished up my rewatch of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries regular season shows. I'll be hitting the movie this week.

Started the fifth series of Foyle's War and forgot how much of a banger the opener was. And a holiday episode to boot. But very glad to have the whole wife thing out of the way.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and look forward to finishing it up this week. The two new characters are growing on me. I love the newest tech, and the new head of the Lyell is finally settling in.

Caught another episode of Poirot and thoroughly enjoyed the many twists and turns. Gotta say I miss it when Hastings and Miss Lemon aren't in the show, but it's fun to see Japp and Poirot on their own also.

Elementary didn't disappoint. I'm looking forward to seeing how the season ends and what the resolution will be between Sherlock and Joan, Moreland, and the offshoot of Moriarity's group.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and it's one I didn't remember or only have a vague recollection. Ended up enjoying.

Also enjoyed another episode of Star Trek Lower Decks. I'm kind of feeling like the show finally found its groove. Or at least I found my groove with the show.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Imagination, a sexy short featuring a feast for the senses.

Here's the miniblurb:

Holland Dukes and Rand Allerdyce love to play games. When Holland decides Rand needs to stimulate his imagination, she uses a blindfold and makes him rely on his other senses. Rand loves her creativity and promises he'll return the favor when she least expects it.

And a snippety peek…

Basking in the success of pulling off her surprise, Holland let the kiss spin wildly. Rand never disappointed in or out of bed and tonight proved no different. His patience allowed her anticipation build to the point of being so ready she almost feared she'd go off before she wanted to.

Rand's hands grasped her hips, and his mouth eased away from hers. "Mmm. You feel really good on me." His pelvis dipped and rose, and he slid a little deeper inside her.

Holland's fingers curled into her palms. "And you feel really good in me." She gasped when his mouth closed over her breast. "Ah, yes. More of that." When his teeth grazed over her nipple she threw her head back.

He lavished attention on the other side, and Holland struggled to keep her pace slow and steady. She didn't want the blissful pleasure to end yet. Rand's fingers dug into her thighs … a sure sign he didn't want to speed things up either.

She focused her senses. The rough texture of his thighs moving beneath hers, the sound coming from his throat each time he moved his mouth from one side to the other, the scent of the massage oil lingering on their skin, and the sight of ecstasy on his face when he finally dropped his head back and groaned.

She needed to taste him to round everything out.

Her mouth met his and her tongue slipped in to tangle with his. Rand moved his hands up to her waist grinding up against her core. She rode harder, slipping closer to the edge. And toppled over when Rand bucked under her, breaking the kiss to moan against her skin.

He followed right behind, collapsing back onto the pillows, his breathing coming in short, raspy bursts.

Holland crumpled atop his chest, dragging in air and waiting for the fireworks coursing through her to subside. She let out a low, satisfied groan then shifted to the side to snuggle close to Rand's torso.

He wrapped an arm around her, tracing patterns on her shoulder. "You never fail to amaze me." His lips brushed over her temple.

Holland smiled. "It's your birthday. Had to make it fun and exciting." She lifted her head. "And the night isn't over. After we shower, there's champagne to continue the celebration…" Her lips blazed a path along his jawline.

Rand flashed a smile. "A perfect end to an incredible night." His gaze shifted to the bathroom. "Shall we?"

Holland nodded. "Yes. Let's go." She sat up and held out a hand.

Rand clasped her fingers and pulled her close to mesh his lips with hers before leading her into the adjoining room.

I'm so happy with this one. Holland and Rand are a fun couple to write.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: The Hunt

Today is my middle kid's birthday. Something fun to celebrate in the middle of January when the weather is often full of yuck, which it is today.

It's been a weird, wet week in Ohio. Mostly rain, but we got some snow last night and early this morning. We'll have more snow and rain throughout the week with maybe one day of no moisture falling from the sky. We also had some back-and-forth temperatures again, which makes my sinuses cranky.

Work projects continued with good progress. I have a new project starting this week and a catch-up call with an author on when to get their new book started through the editing process. Also making great progress on the memoir and series developmental edits.

Had a solid week of viewing. I made it through the full slate of shows I normally watch and hope to do the same this week. I'm close to being able to start the new season of at least one of my fave shows and I can't wait.

Started out with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and it's one of my favorite ones. I'll be watching the finale this week and then move on to the movie.

Ended up watching the whole episode of Foyle's War, which I actually remembered. It's also the last one in season four, because it only had two episodes. I'll be starting the new season this week.

Caught the second part of Silent Witness and, whew, it definitely had some twisty turns. Such a good episode! Starting a new two-parter this week.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Interesting to have a plane involved in the mystery and fun to know Poirot isn't any fonder of flying than he is of sailing.

Watched an episode of Elementary and thoroughly enjoyed watching Moreland and Gregson go head-to-head about Sherlock and Joan. Kind of glad Moreland didn't actually have his employee killed. Also quite love that he didn't clock Joan as being as sneaky as she is.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and loved seeing Inque again. I remembered this one and enjoyed how it ended.

Enjoyed an episode of Star Trek Lower Decks. I'm finally warming up to Mariner. The dual storyline with the chief engineer ended up being a lot of fun.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Hunt, a fun sexy short about a couple reconnecting after almost burning out from too much work.

Here's the miniblurb:

Megan and Guy, corporate retreat directors, stage a scavenger hunt for their client's team-building exercise. After a major disagreement, the couple spends most of their time making up—and trying not to get caught in compromising positions.

And a snippety peek…

Guy's libido kicked into high gear, and he needed more. Now.

Easing back, he glanced toward the door. "Locked?" Probably not … because he'd acted like an ass.

Megan smirked. "Yes." She loosened his tie. "Kinda hoped I could finesse you into a better mood." Her fingers went to the buttons of his shirt.

Guy grasped her hand and pulled her around the desk. "Love how you always think ahead." He yanked his shirttails out of his pants.

Megan shrugged and undid the rest of her blouse. "Yeah, well…" She unhooked her bra, baring her glorious bust to his gaze.

His mouth watered and he leaned down to capture a taut peak between his lips.

Megan moaned and made short work of getting his pants unzipped and down past his hips. Her fingers curled around his erection, and she gave it a firm tug. He slipped his shirt off then switched to the other nipple and ruched Megan's skirt up. She took over and lowered her thong.

Guy wrapped his arms around her and settled onto the office chair, hauling her up onto his lap. He flicked his tongue over a pebbled tip then worried it with his teeth. Megan writhed over his thighs, her hot center nudging against his dick.

Guy moaned, cupping her ass and urging her to rise up and sink over his length.

She complied, lifting her hips and taking him deep. "Mmm … don't think either of us is going to last long." Rocking back and forth, her internal muscles gripped him like a glove.

Guy nuzzled his face between her breasts. "Don't care. We can always go slow later." He leaned back, bringing one hand up to palm a globe of flesh.

Megan gave a husky laugh. "Definitely got you in a better mood, didn't I?"

Hell, yes.

I love Megan and Guy. Writing this one is a lot of fun.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin