Sunday Snippet: Muse It Up

It's been a weird week but also a productive one. I can't quite believe March is almost over. My middle kid has gallbladder surgery on Tuesday and my youngest kid has a long weekend coming up and I'm kind of excited to have everyone home.

Very slow work week so I got to focus on writing again. Made a lot of progress on the back end with a good bit or organizing and updating files. I got some new projects launched and made a big dent in some older ones that have been on the back burner. It's always nice to feel productive.

Also got some cleaning done, which is terrific and long overdue. I've been setting a timer and sticking with one area for that timeframe. Seems to be working well so far. I pick a room, set the limit, and get busy. Makes the job seem less daunting.

On the television front, I got three arcs of Classic Who watched this week. I'm almost finished with season fourteen and I miss Sarah Jane but Leela is pretty fun. I don't think I've seen any Leela episodes so it's kind of fun to see new fare.

I also watched several more episodes of The Muppet Show. I'm about halfway through the first season and other than remembering how annoying Miss Piggy's karate chops are I'm having great memories.

Caught the second part of Silent Witness and finished out the ninth season. I'll be starting ten this week.

Got another episode of Peak Practice in and should have one more for the second season then ready to start the third. I'm not sure how long Jack and Beth will be sticking around but I'm really enjoying this show.

I also got to catch an episode of Murdoch Mysteries. I'm behind on the new season, but I like to binge this show so I'll get caught up soon.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Muse It Up, a novella where the hero finds his muse in an odd place.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nate Shaunessey can't get in the groove to write his new supernatural series. When he meets the new bartender, Hunter Gant, at his local pub, a muse is born. The only problem? Nate's afraid to tell her she's his latest inspiration.

And a snippety peek…

Hunter scrambled to answer her phone. "Hello." Sunlight poured through the window in the small apartment above the bar.

"Hey, sis. You doing okay?"

Her mouth curved. "I'd be doing better if you didn't call at an ungodly hour." Her brother, Keegan, never had good timing.

He chuckled. "It's after noon. Thought you might like to get some lunch now that you've settled in."

Yawning, she cracked an eye open. "Make it breakfast and you're on." She sat up, putting her phone on speaker. "I didn't get to bed until after five."

Keegan sputtered. "What? Are you having trouble or something?"

Hunter rolled her eyes. "Geez, bro. Put the badge away." She rifled through her drawer. "No, I'm not having trouble. Seriously? With a bookish type of clientele?" Might be different if Paul and Louanne had the type of patrons their brother Declan had—he ran a roadside bar that catered to motorcycle enthusiasts.

Keegan kicked a snarky reply back to her. "Right. Because people who write about serial killers and the dregs of humanity can't possibly be dangerous."

Hunter yanked a shirt over her head. "Keeg, you've been a cop too long." The lone wolf in the family, Keegan had chosen law enforcement over entrepreneurship.

He snorted. "Which means I've seen a lot of what some of those authors write about."

Tugging a pair of leggings on, Hunter paused midway. "Speaking of authors. Guess who parked his ass on one of my barstools last night." She finished dressing, grabbing a pair of socks then heading for the bathroom.

Keegan huffed out a breath. "No idea. Who?"

She turned the water on and snagged her toothbrush. "Nate Shaunessey." Muting the phone, she started brushing her teeth, grinning when Keegan finally found his voice.

"No shit? I love his books." He went off on a tangent about the current series ending. "Wait, you're not messing with me are you?"

She quickly rinsed and unmuted the phone. "No, of course not. I'm not Declan." She laughed when Keegan muttered about Declan's bad habit of telling tall tales.

Keegan finally asked, "So … what's he like in person?"

Hunter chuckled. "I'll fill you in at breakfast. Where do you want to meet?"

Keegan didn't hesitate. "Come out the back way. I'm sitting in the alley behind the bar. We can decide on the way."

Hunter opened the door and, sure enough, her brother's personal vehicle idled at the bottom of the stairs. "Dammit, Keegan." She cut the call to the sound of his laughter.

I really like this story and I love the sibling dynamic Hunter has going on. I'm excited to see where things go.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Monumental Headache

I did get my vaccine this past Tuesday and only had mild side effects, for which I'm very grateful. I'm glad it's out of the way and look forward to everyone else getting theirs and finding a new normal.

Had another slower work week and caught up on more writing. It's nice to focus for longer periods when I'm able to. Had a few distractions involving family member health issues but both of those were expected.

Television ended up being fairly decent this week. I finished a new arc of Classic Who and it might be the last one with Sarah Jane Smith. I'm not sure but should find out this week.

Caught an episode of Peak Practice. Jack and Amanda finally got married and had some drama prior to the wedding.

Caught the last two episodes of No Offence's first season and, wow, what a great ending. A little twisty and turny but very satisfying. Also caught the deleted scenes and a behind the scenes meeting of the cast and creator. Worth the watch.

Watched a couple episodes of The Muppet Show. Again, I had some great memories of watching as a kid. I'm enjoying diving back into the show.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers but haven't made it very far yet. Looks like a good episode so far.

Caught another episode of Silent Witness. Almost at the end of season nine. This looks like another good two-parter.

Did a binge marathon of Hawaii Five-0 and watched a good portion of season nine. I'll have to revisit because I missed some key points, but it's a decent season so far.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Monumental Headache, a novella that has my characters dealing with a situation with another coworker that isn't fun for them.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Cadee Walsh has a high stress job and needs to blow off steam. She spends the night with Worth Pettigrew, recharging from the incredible sex. Imagine her mortification when she finds out he's her new boss.

And a snippety peek…

Breathing a little easier, he pulled into the back alley of the address he provided to Cadee. The little hole in the wall diner had good food and the owners were friends of his. Parking under an awning-covered carport, he got out of the car and entered the restaurant through the rear entrance. Making his way to the dining room via the kitchen, he spotted Cadee, sitting at the bar, chatting with Ethel. She glanced up when he came through the café doors and quirked an eyebrow.

Ethel waved them to a booth in a secluded corner. "I'll bring your order in a few. The usual?" She didn't wait for a reply, because Worth never deviated from his favorite meal.

Cadee scooted into the booth and placed her purse and jacket on the seat. "What's the usual? Am I going to like it?" Her knee bobbed under the table, betraying her antsy agitation.

Worth's lips curved. "I think you'll enjoy it. I call it John's blue plate special, but it's a steak salad with house dressing, two crusty rolls, and a side of grilled pineapple." He settled across from Cadee.

She closed her eyes. "You're right. I'll love it." Her eyes popped open. "They only make this blue plate special for you, don't they?"

He laughed. "You got it in one. Remember when I told you I had ties to the community?" He glanced behind the counter. "Ethel and John are it. They lived beside my grandparents when I was growing up and I spent a lot of time with them during the summers and on holiday visits." As much as he'd love to talk about old friends, he steered the conversation where it needed to go. "But we didn't come here to talk about my childhood."

Cadee sighed. "No, you're going to fill me in about Matt." Her gaze collided with Worth's. "I'm a little wigged out he knows you spent the night with me." She opened her mouth to say more, but Ethel interrupted.

She carried a big tray with two of everything on it. "Here we go. Steak salad, rolls, and grilled pineapple." Shuffling the dishes to the table, she also placed two cups of water along with two taller glasses of iced tea between them.

Worth rubbed his hands together. "Ethel, you're the best." When she cleared her throat and glanced toward Cadee, Worth made the introductions. "Ethel, this is Cadee, a colleague from work. Cadee, meet Ethel Merryman."

Cadee extended her hand. "Happy to meet you, Ethel. I can't wait to dig into this salad." Picking up her fork, she tucked into the leafy greens and popped a bite into her mouth.

Her eyes closed in bliss when she chewed than swallowed.

Worth grinned. She'd just made his night.

Ethel chuckled. "Great dressing, isn't it?"

Cadee nodded, stuffing another mouthful between her lips.

Ethel leaned down and whispered, "It's Worth's recipe. Super-secret ingredients, but he might share it with you." Turning around, she stuck the tray under her arm and greeted a new customer coming in through the main door.

Cadee's eyes widened then narrowed. "You're a man of many talents, aren't you?" She took a drink of her water. "We'll revisit this later." Picking up her knife, she sliced through one of the rolls. "But you were going to fill me in about Matt."

Worth picked his utensils up and nodded. "He's got it bad for you." He speared some lettuce onto the fork. "How long has this thing been going on?"

Cadee shot him an angry look. "That's the problem. There is no thing." She took a bite of her roll, chewing thoughtfully. "Okay, there is, but it's one-sided and all on Matt. I have no interest in him."

Worth breathed a little easier. He hoped he hadn't walked into a lover's spat, as Matt tried to imply. But after the shit week with Cadee, he needed to be certain.

Worth dug into his food but continued the conversation. "Basically, Matt threatened to come after me if I didn't back off. He told me you two were working through some issues and I'd be smart to not get involved in a workplace romance, especially since you're prone to them." He stuffed a bite of roll into his mouth and waited for her response.

She didn't disappoint. "Are you serious?" Her fork dropped to the table with a clatter.

This story started out one way and turned into something else and I'm happy about it. I love it when the characters show me something different.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Mixed Signals

Well, I think I get my vaccine this week. I'm actually rather excited they made it to my age range. I'll look forward to being able to be out and about more than I currently am.

Had a slower work week, which ended up being nice to get caught up on some writing and start some new projects that have been waiting in the wings. Also caught some television.

Ended up watching two arcs of Classic Who. I am in season fourteen and but I'm not halfway as I originally thought.

Caught two episodes of No Offence. I'm almost finished with the first season and it's getting really good. I'm thoroughly enjoying this show.

Watched the first part of Silent Witness and started the second. It's actually kind of a creepy episode.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice, which ended up being really good. I'm near the end of the second season and almost ready to start the third.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and it continues a bit from the previous episode. It's getting a little more into the personal lives of the characters.

Also watched several episodes of The Muppet Show. I'm having some seriously fun childhood flashbacks.

And that's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Mixed Signals, a novella that has a friendly fire incident that spurs a reunion between the characters.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Avery and Trigg, both undercover cops, can't keep their relationship going. Their work makes it hard to stay connected. When mixed signals results in Avery shooting Trigg in a friendly fire incident, she wants to set the record straight and maybe test the waters to pick up where they left off.

And a snippety peek…

Avery woke up with a start. Trigg stood next to her chair, dressed in fresh clothes with his arm in a sling to keep his shoulder still. "What's going on?" Sunlight streamed through the window. "I slept here all night?" Well, yeah, her neck and back were screaming.

Trigg flashed a smile. "You did, yes. When the nurse came in to say visiting hours were over, I told her you needed rest."

She raised her eyebrows. "And she didn't make a fuss?"

The corner of Trigg's mouth kicked up in a half-grin. "I also told her you were the one who shot me and wanted to atone by sleeping in a horribly uncomfortable chair all night."

Avery laughed. "You're awful." She stretched and winced. "But accurate about the chair. Damn, I hurt." She sobered. "I'm assuming you get to leave?" Why else would he be dressed?

He nodded. "Waiting on a prescription for pain meds and the discharge papers." He planted his butt on the edge of the bed. "I'm restricted to desk duty after forty-eight hours at home." His mouth twisted in a grimace.

Avery leaned back in the chair. "Can I give you a ride? We could go to my place, get you settled." She could at least make sure he had meals and help out until he got used to the whole one-armed thing.

Trigg's eyebrow rose. "You think that's a good idea? Might be a little weird, all things considered." No doubt meaning their would-they-or-wouldn't-they conversation.

Avery shrugged. "Doesn't have to be strange. You're gonna need help with meals and navigating until you're used to the sling. I've got time off saved up I can use." She wanted to be there for him.

Trigg shook his head. "I can't ask you to use vacation time." He started to rise.

She stood first and nudged him back. "Trigg, you're not asking me. I'm telling you." Placing her hand on his, she laced their fingers together. "If my place doesn't work for you, I'll come stay at yours. No strings, expectations, or declarations needed. Consider this a favor from a friend who's been there and knows what a pain in the ass getting wounded can be." He really had no idea how difficult simple things would be until he adjusted.

Trigg cocked his head to one side. "You're sure you want to do this?" He squeezed her fingers.

She nodded. "I'm sure. No pressure to pick up where we left off or revisit our past. This is strictly an offer from someone who cares." She'd do her best to stay true to that promise.

Because she really wanted another shot, especially after realizing he could have died.

Trigg held her gaze for several long moments. "In that case, if we can stop by my place to get some stuff, I'd be happy to stay with you for a couple of days."

She grinned. "Perfect. I'll head down and get the seat adjusted and pull around to the valet area." Gathering her bag, she almost bumped into the nurse on her way back into the room.

With a quick wave to Trigg, she exited and headed for the elevator.

"Don't blow this, Ave." Exhaling slowly, she pushed the button to head for her car.

I'm excited to see what happens when Trigg and Avery spend some quality time together, which doesn't mean they'll be at the rainbows and unicorns stage yet.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Mistletoe Madness

Hello, March! It seems weird that a year ago next week, I went out with friends to celebrate birthdays and a week later we started the state shutdown. It's been both the longest and shortest time span between the two. I'm not sure that makes sense, but it's definitely how the last twelve months have been for me. LOL

My middle kiddo, who is actually a grown adult, ended up being admitted to the hospital on Monday. He's got some health issues going on and he's really tired of trips to urgent care, the ED, and various doctors. I'm hoping he eventually gets a solid diagnosis and starts to find some relief soon.

Had another fairly busy week with work. My projects have slowed down a little since last June, which is a blessing and a curse. I like having more time to hit some side projects but I also like to stay busy so I don't lose my groove.

Not a bad week for television. I caught a couple episodes of Silent Witness. Season nine started on such a downer but one of the things I love about British dramas is how they explore the journeys characters take. US television doesn't do that as often.

Watched another episode of No Offence. I'm still enjoying this show. I like the overreaching arc of a serial killer and the case of the week stuff also. Good show.

I caught another episode of Peak Practice. I'm almost finished with the second season and I'm looking forward to easing back into this show on a regular basis.

For fun, I started watching The Muppet Show series. I remember experiencing the original run with my two brothers. It was one show we all agreed on and watched together without fighting. Brings back good memories.

Caught a binge marathon of Hawaii Five-0 and I'm almost at the point where I stopped watching regularly. Not sure if seasons eight through the end will be on, but I'll try to finish out the series.

Finally, caught another arc of Classic Who and started season fourteen. I can't remember how many seasons the fourth doctor had, but I think I'm at the halfway point.

And that's pretty much it for this week. Tonight's post is from Mistletoe Madness, a holiday ménage story.

Here's the mini-blurb:

After burying her mother right before the holidays, Delaney Nixon comes back home to deal with the estate and decide what to do with her future. Two former beaus offer condolences and help, each hoping the spark might reignite even if they've agreed to leave old feelings alone while getting Delaney through the merry season.

And a snippety peek…

With her arm around Westin, Delaney gave Scotty a wide grin. "We do!" She turned the porch light on and led the men out.

They trailed down the steps and stood in the yard to take the scene in. The eaves and retaining columns on the porch were decked out in red and green lights. On either side of the stairs, white lights twined down the railing and two candy canes stood sentinel at the base.

Delaney sighed. "It's beautiful." She grabbed Scotty's hand and headed back up on the porch.

She stopped so Scotty stood under the mistletoe. Tipping her chin up, she kissed him. Scotty moaned against her lips and caught her face in his hand, taking the embrace deep and lingering. When he lifted his head, she eased away, a little breathless. Happy memories filled her mind and she let them in, owning how easy it would be to fall for him again.

Westin stood on the steps with his eyebrow arched. She sent a wink in his direction, a promise she hadn't forgotten about him either. And she hadn't. Giddy joy threatened to replace the lingering grief of losing her mom and she wanted to bask in it for a while.

She bounced on her toes. "Let's turn the inside ones on too." She headed back into the house with the men following her.

Westin did the honors, flipping the switch by entryway. Three downstairs rooms lit up. The sitting room in blue and white, the living room in a golden hue, and the kitchen in multicolor, her mom's favorite. Delaney would add some fun décor to the parlor, dining room, and half bath later.

Scotty jerked his head toward the living room. "Tree needs decorations." He slid his gaze sideways and arched a brow.

Delaney grinned. "The boxes are in the sitting room." She started forward, but Scotty shook his head.

He lifted a hand. "I'll get them. You two go on in." He crossed the hall and ducked into the room.

Westin followed her into the living room and she paused under some mistletoe.

He chuckled and hauled her close, bending his head. Delaney met his lips. The lip-lock got a little heated the same way it had with Scotty. She eased away when Scotty entered, clearing his throat. Her blood pumping, the only thing she could honestly claim would be having an intense attraction for both men. Not a good thing.

Easing away, Delaney grabbed the first box from Scotty's pile and the guys grabbed the others then followed her to the tree. They started the decorating, sharing memories from other holidays. Even though she'd dated both at different times, each had experience with how much her mom loved decorating using any and all excuses. Delaney enjoyed reminiscing and slid a little deeper into confusion. The two guys represented the happiest time in her life.

About halfway finished with the tree, Westin dropped a truth bomb. "You're trying to figure out which one of us you want, aren't you?" He placed a bulb on a limb, but sent her a pointed glance.

Delaney tried to sidestep the question. "What do you mean?" Right, she couldn't have been more obvious.

Westin waved a hand. "The mistletoe madness thing you've got going on. You're testing the waters, right?" He flicked his gaze toward Scotty.

She opened her mouth, then clamped it shut. What the hell could she say? Her face flamed hot.

Scotty laughed. "Busted." He nudged Westin. "Good call, buddy." He shared a high-five with Westin.

Delaney's mouth dropped open. "Wait, you're not pissed?" Did she step into an alternate universe?

Scotty shrugged. "I'm not. Westin?"

He shook his head. "Nope."

Delaney tried to wrap her brain around their responses. "You two never fail to amaze me." She sat on the sofa. "As to why … well … every relationship I've ever had falls short." She looked up and held their gazes. "Because no one compares to my first two loves." And no one probably ever would.

I have so much fun writing trios. This group dynamic is interesting to dive into for me. I love the revisiting the past to find the future kind of trope.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin