Sunday Snippet: Winning Hand

Welcome to the last post of 2019. I hope everyone had a terrific holiday or the best they could have given the trash fire that has turned into a raging wildfire of possible corruption and back channel maneuvering in the RWA. I'm not a member of the organization but I stand with marginalized authors. Period. Full stop.

I believe I made it through the mild case of the flu. I'm still a little stuffed up and achy, but otherwise doing well. I caught some decent television time also.

I watched an episode of Riverdale and thoroughly enjoyed it. Once again, the play on theme of the episode title worked so well. I'm sad because it's almost the end of the season and that means no more Luke Perry soon.

I finished Dirty Sexy Saint and ended up really liking it. I also caught the new Quickie, The Naughty List and loved that also.

Caught another episode of Murdoch Mysteries and enjoyed the different approach. The episode played out almost like a dinner theater murder mystery and I'm totally there for that.

Frankie Drake also had a different style of episode and I loved it. The cold opening had me wondering for a few moments if we'd lost a major cast member. Well done.

Watched an episode of Midsomer Murders and, weirdly, it reminded me of Doctor Who if only because two of the actresses in this episode guest-starred on the series. I've been watching some of the marathon leading up to the New Year's premiere of the new season.

I'm finishing out the week with a full arc of Sapphire and Steel. I started season three and since there's only one assignment for this season, I'll have it finished up later today.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Winning Hand, a sexy short that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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…

Hahn deposited Tawni's luggage on the trunk at the end of the bed. "She packs light." Then again, she had efficiency down to an art form.

Anything extra clothing she needed would be foraged for in town. And promptly donated when they packed up to head to their various homes. Hahn respected Tawni's mindset when it came to not hanging on to things she wouldn't use until the next time they met at the lake.

Then again, she'd always been pragmatic. "Since elementary school."

She'd moved to their hometown in second grade and made his parents' diner her home away from home. Her mom worked at the local hospital—the same place Hahn now worked as a physical therapist—and Tawni stopped in before and after school while her mom worked twelve-hour shifts.

Hahn ran a hand over the battered, oversized bag. "And stupid me fell in love with her on day one." Of course, Tawni had no clue how long he'd carried a torch.

Maybe she never would.

He headed back out to the main room where Dav and Robin were setting up a table for their traditional welcome-back poker night. Ellie had Brett pouring liquids, a mixture of fruit juices, soda, and alcohol, into a huge bowl. And Tawni held court by sitting on the counter in the kitchen observing the antics unfold. She glanced up and met Hahn's gaze, holding it for several long moments.

He'd trade a paycheck to know what wandered through her mind. No doubt something downright dirty if her wicked smile gave any hint. The idea her thoughts might involve him had his dick twitching to life.

Great. She's not here five minutes and I'm already working a set of blue balls.

The sexy grin grew wider and something a little speculative entered her gaze. Hahn swallowed hard, his mouth suddenly dry. But his lips curved in a wide smile before he went to help Dav finish setting up the poker table.

With a little luck, Hahn might turn the speculation into something smoldering and hot.

This is a fun story where the timing finally seems right for friends to cross over the line to lovers. But Hahn's fondest wish is more than just a summer hookup.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Wind It Up

So, I'm pretty much caught up on the holiday shopping and just in time. We adopted another doggo this week and I ended up with a mild case of the flu. So far, a multi-symptom medication is taking care of the flu and the puppy is chewing her way through anything she can sink her teeth into. We're working on the little shredder to help break her of tearing into everything.

Slow week for television, but I did watch a Classic Who arc. I think I have one left of season nine.

Caught two more episodes of Gargoyles. I had a great conversation with my oldest about the shows we watched together when he was little. Some great memories shared of how much fun we had.

Started Mr. 365, a Passionflix original, but stopped it about halfway through because I'm behind on everything and I wanted to catch Dirty Sexy Saint, the holiday movie for this year. I'll finish up Mr. 365 soon.

I'm in the middle of Dirty Sexy Saint and, so far, love it. I'm so glad I got a founding member's subscription to Passionflix.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Wind It Up, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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…

Garner eased Rae to the bed and peeled off her clothes. He stripped her with slow deliberation, memorizing every curve bared to his gaze. If he could, he'd get on bended knee and ask her to wait… but she deserved so much better than him.

His slow perusal brought a gorgeous flush to her skin. "You're so beautiful, Rae." He shed his shirt and jeans, crawling up beside her.

She palmed his erection. "You're the first person who ever made me feel like I am." Her lips grazed along his shoulder.

You're the first person…

He'd been her first for pretty much everything.

Date

Kiss

Boyfriend

Lover

And he'd never forget any of those.

But she'd been the first person to ever look past the wrong side of the tracks he came from. The first to think he could be better than his history. The first to give him a chance to be the man he wanted to be.

The first to love him unconditionally.

He cupped her face in his hands. "I'll love you forever, Rae. Please know that." His lips caught hers and his tongue slipped past her teeth.

She responded with quiet passion, moaning low in her throat. He settled between her thighs, nudging up against her entrance. Breaking the kiss, he waited until she met his gaze before thrusting forward, sliding deep inside her.

Her chin lifted and her eyes darkened but she didn't look away. Her legs wrapped around his waist and her hips rose, meeting his groin. Garner sucked in a harsh breath. Her silky heat surrounded him and he wanted to stay buried within her for a lifetime.

But he didn't have a lifetime… only small window of moments to fill up on and take with him on the road. The ticking clock counting down to their farewell spurred him onward. He pumped his hips, rained kisses over her skin, and caressed every valley and plane he could reach with his tongue.

Only when Rae gasped and shuddered under him did he finally give in and follow along behind her. His release stormed through his body and he collapsed, easing to the side and gathering her in his arms. She snuggled up against him, placing her head on his chest.

Garner brushed his lips over her temple. "Sleep or another round?" His hand palmed her butt.

Rae's lips curved. "Are you kidding? Another round as soon as you're ready."

Damn, he loved her.

This is one of my favorite combinations, mixing a reunion romance with a new one. I love the possibilities when two people have to put what's best for another ahead of their own egos.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Weathering the Storm

December 15, 2019

There's nothing quite like hitting the third week of December and realizing less than half my holiday shopping is complete. I need about five more hours each day to get everything finished up. Something tells me I'm not going to see that extra time.

Had a decent week of television viewing. Caught an episode of Riverdale and, wow, I'm seriously impressed with how the relationship with Betty and Alice is being portrayed. I'm on the fence with the Hal stuff. Was completely thrilled I didn't have any Hiram to deal with and loved the father / son stuff between FP and Jughead and Archie and Fred. It's so bittersweet to watch Luke Perry's scenes.

Caught another arc of Sapphire and Steel. I should be getting ready to start the third season next week.

Watched an episode of Murdoch Mysteries. Really not sure what to make of the neighbor interaction. My gut says the wife is probably some type of murderer. We'll see if I'm proven right. I have a vague idea of who I think she'll end up taking out if she is.

Also watch an episode of Frankie Drake Mysteries. Enjoyed seeing a family member added to the fold. Loved Nora's mama bear protection instincts.

Also caught another episode of Midsomer Murders. Very happy this has another season coming up.

That's pretty much it for television this week. I also dived deep into the holiday music on a couple of days. Tonight's post is from Weathering the Storm, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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…

Gabby checked her list, adding a few items. "Might as well grab some popcorn while I'm out anyway." Tim had an old-fashioned fireplace popper in his workroom.

She made up a couple of peanut butter and banana sandwiches, wrinkling her nose. Tim loved them, but she'd rather have peanut butter and apple, preferably grilled on the stove.

Grabbing her list, she bundled up and went outside, standing on the porch to watch Tim for a few moments. She loved the controlled strength he used to swing the ax, splitting the wood into manageable logs. The same he used to make her body sing under his fingertips.

She stepped out into the yard. "I'm ready to head out. Need me to get anything?" Tightening her scarf, she shivered when the chilly wind hit her from the side.

Tim glanced up then put the ax into a piece of wood. "Let me grab the empty fuel cans." He ducked around the side of the cabin and returned with two ten-gallon canisters.

Skin brushed against skin when he handed them over, shooting a thrill through Gabby.

Tim dropped a kiss on her nose. "Drive safe." He went back to the woodpile and grabbed the ax again. "I want you home in one piece."

She gave him a waggle-fingered wave and stowed the containers in the back of the truck.

The first small flurries drifted down when she slid behind the wheel of the SUV.

She lifted her gaze to the sky as she drove down the drive to the road. "Something wicked this way comes." Angry gray clouds filled the wintry slate blue sky.

Pulling out onto the gravel-topped road, she tuned to the local weather station and cranked up the volume. The earlier report repeated, warning of heavy snowfall. The temperature outside hadn't dropped much, but the biting gusts of wind preceding the storm rocked the vehicle. She bumped the fan on the heater up a notch.

Gabby shook her head. "Gonna be crazy in town." Thankfully, she didn't need much and had an early start.

I love the idea of spending time during bad weather in a cozy cabin. Gabby and Tim are fun to explore the ideas with.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Voices Carry

I wish I could say it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, but it's so not. LOL I'm hoping I can add some holiday cheer to the casa sometime this week. I think I'm going to make 2020 my year to finally purge a ton of stuff we no longer need or use.

Didn't have a great week of television, but did get a few things watched. We got a Disney + account through our wireless carrier so I did start a rewatch of the Gargoyles series. I have so many fond memories of this show when my oldest was little.

I finished the Gilmore Girls marathon and had some pretty intense feels. I watched sporadically when it originally aired, mainly because I had three youngish kiddos at the time. I really love the vibe of this show, even when I wanted to strangle the characters sometimes.

Caught another episode of Midsomer Murders and also realized series twenty isn't the last one. Yay!!

Caught a full story arc of Sapphire and Steel along with a full arc of Classic Who. I'd forgotten how much I truly disliked the Master way back when.

I finished out the week with The Trouble with Mistletoe, a Passionflix original. If you're not a member, consider signing up. I love the service!

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Voices Carry, a novella that started with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Summer Blaine is a struggling artist who always listens to Detective Fitch Falconer's tales of triumphs and woes when he drops by the diner she works in to make ends meet. When she gets a chance to display her art, she invites Fitch to the gallery to see her true passion. Unfortunately, a ghost from her past tries to get in the way and it's up to Fitch to find out who wants her dead.

And a snippety peek…

I feel like I've passed a test of some kind.

Fitch followed Summer down the long hallway and stopped outside her door. Her artistic flair showed in the bold color choice and decorative border surrounding the jambs.

Summer smiled and pushed the shiny red wood open to reveal her inner sanctum.

Fitch crossed the threshold and whistled. "Whew. This is like entering a different dimension." She had serious talent.

Summer ducked her head a little. "It's a lot, but I love it." Her gaze met his, almost shyly.

Fitch took a moment to appreciate the invitation into her personal space. His gut told him she didn't share this level of intimacy with many people—except with her artwork. Having a glimpse of this side to her meant something.

Fitch soaked up the atmosphere she'd created. "It's amazing." She'd taken color to new levels, creating a cohesive environment that had easily distinguishable spaces with touches of personality stamped in each one.

Summer entered the kitchen area. "I have dark roast and hazelnut. Which do you prefer?" She moved the single unit coffeemaker to the edge of the counter and sent him a quick glance over her shoulder.

Fitch stepped up to the island with barstools lining one end. "Hazelnut. Love the aroma." He loved her efficiency of movement, picturing her with a paintbrush in her hand and a canvas before her. "Laura's excited about the opening. I'll bet she loves the title you decided on." As an opener… playing it safe sounded like the best option.

Summer set the brewed coffee in front of him. "She does. She likes the fact it came from our conversations even more." She started another cup. "I think she's got her matchmaking cap on." A sly look came his way.

He sputtered on his first sip. "Uh… why do you think so?" He hoped like hell Laura didn't suggest Summer ask him to the opening.

Summer laughed. "Because, when we met, she said something along the lines of 'no wonder he turned down a date with my assistant.'" Her cup ready, she joined him at the bar.

Fitch groaned. "Ugh, she didn't." But, of course, she had.

Summer's lips twitched. "Yeah, she kinda did." She sobered. "But I'm glad in a way because I didn't know if inviting you to go with me would be stepping on anyone's toes." Her eyebrow quirked upward.

Fitch shook his head. "Um, no. Much to Laura's dismay." He put his cards on the table. "I haven't been ready to settle down, mainly because I'm a terrible bet for anything normal." With the exception of stopping in to the diner, he didn't have a regular schedule.

Summer took a long sip of coffee then set the mug down. "Normal's overrated. Routine can be good, but a lot can be said for changing things up on a frequent basis." She leaned her forearms on the bar. "Is that what I am to you?"

I'm excited about this story. Summer and Fitch are going to navigate a few twists and turns and it's fun to write their journey.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Violating Space

Whew! Welcome to December. I had a crazy week of trying to find a working stove… okay, a stove with a working oven. It's funny. We get a new furnace and literally two days later, our oven takes a flying leap. The good news is, I didn't have to cook for the US Thanksgiving and we found a new stove.

Television took a back seat to both work and shopping for kitchen appliances. I did get the Murdoch Mysteries episode finished up and enjoyed it a lot.

I also caught a binge-watch of the Green Hornet. I love the vibe of that show. The movie vibe? Not so much.

Then… I fell down the Gilmore Girls rabbit hole and got sucked into a marathon that's still going on. I'd forgotten how much I really liked this show… even when the characters sometimes drove me bonkers.

I will say it's a great show to watch when insomnia strikes. And, man, the insomnia has been a right pain in my ass this past week. Actually, it's been longer than the week, but it really kicked in on Monday and hasn't backed off yet.

That's pretty much it for the mundane real-life stuff this week. Tonight's post is from Violating Space, a sexy short that started with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Reese Claymore has it bad for Eric Matthews but they work in the same department and can't really get together. Doesn't mean Reese can't express her interest—to the point of driving Eric a little insane over it. He decides to prove a point and invades her personal space, but his plan goes awry when he can't resist acting on his crazy impulse.

And a snippety peek…

Reese unlocked her door and left a trail of clothes from her living room to the bathroom and on into her bedroom. "God… it feels so good to be out of my work getup." Not that she didn't love to dress up.

But a lot could be said for a pair of really comfortable yoga pants, a tank top, and flip-flops.

She heated up a premade dinner and settled in to binge watch the latest must-see series on her favorite streaming channel. A quiet night in ended up being her normal routine, even if she often gave the impression of being a club-going diva.

Flipping through the options on her screen, she chuckled. "Wonder what Eric thinks I do in the evenings." Probably not at all what he envisioned.

Geez, the man took up a lot of space in her head. And why not? He worked hard, didn't make outrageous demands, and had a brain that never stopped.

She found the show she wanted and started the episode. "Why do I find intelligence so damn hot?" Not that Eric didn't have good looks to back everything else up.

Boy, oh, boy did he have some looks. He dressed to impress in suits that she'd swear he had tailored, or at the very least had altered to fit well. They showed off a prime physique—broad shoulders, nipped in waist, and sculpted butt. His ties were fun but not garish. And his choice in foot wear rarely missed.

Stuffing a forkful of pasta into her mouth, she shook her head. "I'd pay to see what he looks like in something athletic." Maybe she should check out the gym on the fourth floor.

She snorted. Right. Tempting fate wouldn't be a good idea.

Which annoyed her to no end. The unwritten rule, stressed by the human resources people, of not getting involved with anyone in the office sucked big ones. In all honesty, Reese got it. Hell, her sophomore year of college, she'd been burned by a coworker at the coffee shop she had a part-time job in. Six months of hot sex and fun times but when it ended, because he had a girl back home, he'd made sure to have a chat with the manager about how much he needed the job when the new semester started and how uncomfortable it would be to work with a former hookup.

Reese rolled her eyes. "Like I didn't need a job too. And I didn't fuck up orders, clock out early, and show up late all the time either." Not that her work ethic mattered.

She didn't get called back.

Pausing the show, she got up, rinsed her dishes, and poured a glass of wine. "I'm stupid to even think about Eric as anything other than a coworker." But he starred in her fantasy dreams anyway.

And not as a possible hookup either.

He had top bill as a potential love interest.

I'm so screwed.

I'm having a lot of fun with this story. I love workplace romances and Eric and Reese are fun people.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin