Sunday Snippet: Unacceptable Behavior

Happy Boxing Day. Hope everyone who celebrates had a great holiday and everyone who doesn't had a great week.

It's the last Sunday of 2021 and it's been a doozy of a year. Had a very busy week with my middle kid's health issues again, but we're finally closer to getting an actual answer for what's been going on with him. I'll be thankful if we get confirmation.

Slow week for television. I started with the opening arc of season twenty-two of Classic Who. Ended up being a decent four episodes. Six is growing on me.

Finished up Mysteries of Apollo and ended up enjoying this six episode look at the space program. Not sure what new series I'll start this week.

Caught two episodes of The Muppet Show. Melissa Manchester and Tony Randall were the guest stars. I didn't have a chance to watch the Muppet Christmas Carol but I might get it in this week.

Started Fosse Verdon and liked the first episode. This should be an interesting show to dive into. Looking forward to more.

Watched another episode of Peak Practice. Really not sure about the new guy. I can't quite decide if he's desperate, evil or both. So far, I don't like the guy at all.

Enjoyed another lesson of MasterClass with Bill Nye. He's a lot of fun and tackles the serious topic of climate change without making the concept too over the top.

I started season two of The Witcher and loved, loved, loved the first episode. Can't wait to get into more.

Last but not least, I watched two episodes of Classic Rugrats. Both were enjoyable and ones I remembered fondly of watching with my oldest.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Unacceptable Behavior, a novella that goes a little over the top with a fight club theme.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Blain Donahue wants to buy into a fight club and decides to invest when he meets the main attraction Roxane Kewes. He's known her a long time—since high school where she constantly got in trouble—and thinks it's great she's found an outlet for her unacceptable behavior.

And a snippety peek…

Blain Donahue. "Damn. Unexpected surprise." And quite welcome.

Excitement over possibly working with Blain lit inside her. He'd done some growing after graduation. Are you kidding? More like filled out in every right place.

She'd liked him, ever since blowing his mind in the school office. They interacted a little their final year, but not much. Different social circles—his one of privilege, hers most definitely not. She left town after graduation, moved in with her dad, and got into the cage matches he attended every weekend.

She got her degree with a combination of online classes and community college while she worked her way up from being a ring attendant to helping promote the weekly bouts. Andy spotted her and recruited her to run the female talent, handle merchandising, and maintain the equipment.

She snorted. "Can't believe that was two years ago." She wouldn't change a thing, except maybe become a partner.

She worked hard and helped Andy build Fight Night into a profitable endeavor. His old-school mentality meant the right moment to push for a piece of the action hadn't presented itself yet. But … Blain buying in might be the catalyst for change she hoped for.

Speaking of Blain, he exited Andy's office and walked across the training area. He cut an impressive figure. He'd taken his extra height and weight and sculpted it into a fit body. And looked damned good.

He stopped by her desk and propped a hip on the edge. "Andy's a go—if you give your seal of approval."

She quirked an eyebrow. "And should I give said approval? It has been five years." Her lips twitched.

He gave her a sly smile. "Would catching up over dinner be unacceptably inappropriate?" His eyebrows rose with a familiarity of a shared long-ago moment.

She barked out a laugh. "As if I'd care. You're only making me more inclined to say yes." Which she really wanted to do.

He straightened. "Good. What time can you break free? Or would you prefer I bring something in?"

She sat back and gave him a long look before grabbing a sticky note and jotting her address down. "Stop by my place around seven." She handed him the note. "I like Thai food."

He tucked the note in his breast pocket. "Thai food it is. Seven o'clock." He lifted two fingers in a wave and strolled away.

Roxane grinned, watching his ass move under the exquisitely tailored pants. "If I'm lucky, I'll have a taste of Blain for dessert."

She planned to be very lucky.

This story is a lot of fun. Roxane can't wait to see if Blain will blow her mind in the present.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Ugly Drunk

December is flying by. I had a busy week trying to get things organized and moved around from the new furniture saga and also dealing getting one kid off to Disney with her grandfather and trying to help another kid during a flare up of his ongoing medical issue. Also had a couple of work projects thrown in.

Slower than usual week for television. I started out by finishing up the final arc of Five on Classic Who. I'd forgotten how much of a snarky snipe Six started out as. Started the first episode of his full arc to end season twenty-one.

Caught another episode of Mysteries of Apollo. I might have inadvertently watched two episodes but I won't know for certain until this week.

Watched two episodes of The Muppet Show. Jean Pierre Rampal and Paul Simon were the guest stars.

Finished up the first season of Fantasy Island. Man, I have to give kudos. I really enjoyed this first season. I'm looking forward to the holiday special next week.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice. It was a tough one to watch and had a lot going on. Erica held her own but, man, what a wringer they put her through.

Enjoyed another MasterClass lesson with Bill Nye. This one focused on how science changes your perspective. Pretty interesting.

Totally flubbed thinking I'd be watching The Ready Room for season one of Star Trek: Discovery only to realize the behind the scenes show didn't start until season two. So … I watched the first episode of the second season. Man, I'm really loving this show. So great to have the introduction of Pike and get some insight on Spock. Really looking forward to this season.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med. Lots of stuff going on but a solid viewing experience. Feels like everyone is kind of heading for a breaking point, Robin and Sarah, especially. Nice to see April and Ethan going public.

Caught another episode of The Madame Blanc Mysteries. Whew. Plot is moving forward in a big way. I think I have two more episodes and I'm kind of wondering how the main arc is going to be resolved. I'm also hoping for another season of this show. It's a lot of fun.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness. Harry went through a rough ride. I'm not completely certain the police detective wasn't playing both sides but I liked that.

That's pretty much it for this week's television update. I'll be starting season two of The Witcher this week, which means I'll be putting Glitch on hold until I wrap that up.

Tonight's post is from Ugly Drunk, a novella that puts my heroine in a tricky spot with the hero but she's determined to prevail.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Pippa Rice is a problem solver and when she takes a job at a local watering hole, her natural skill defuses quite a few tricky situations. Too bad she can't quite figure out how to fix her boss, Wood Finnian. The guy has more baggage than an airport, but Pippa isn't one to give up on people, ever.

And a snippety peek…

Wood Finnian made his way to the clerk of court's window. "I'm here to pay my fine." He handed his copy of the judgment entry to the deputy clerk.

She brought the case up on her computer and gave him the figure and he handed over cash in full.

She printed the receipt and handed it through the slot. "I hope we don't see you again, Mr. Finnian. Thank you."

He gave a nod and headed out through the main entrance. Jogging down the steps to the parking lot, his phone rang. He dug it out of his pocket and rolled his eyes.

He accepted the call. "Ward. What's up?" His brother could only be calling for one reason.

Ward got straight to the point. "Hey, bro. I'm sending someone in to help out."

Wood cut him off. "No, you're not. I don't need help." He'd promised the judge he'd start going to group therapy for anger management.

Ward snorted. "Yeah, you do. You've been warned you'll be in danger of losing the liquor license if you get fined again." He waited a beat. "Dad sent an email to let me know, which you should've done considering I own half the bar."

Wood walked to his truck. "Yeah, fine. I should've said something."

Ward agreed. "Damn right. And you will go to the group sessions. It's bad enough when customers get rowdy and have to be thrown out. One of the owners shouldn't be brawling with them. Have you looked at the expense report? We're spending too much on repairs and replacements."

Wood put his brother on speaker and started the engine. "Since I write the reports, it's a safe bet I've seen them. And, yeah, I'll be attending the therapy sessions. Can you get off my ass now?"

Ward sighed. "Fine. I wish I could be there to help. This deployment should be my last then I'm getting out like you did."

Wood grunted. "Probably a wise decision. Try to get out with your head on straight." Unlike me.

Ward huffed out a breath. "I'll keep it in mind." He paused. "About the help I'm sending … you can't refuse. She'll be waiting at the bar when you get back."

Wood smacked the steering wheel. "Dammit, Ward— Wait. Did you say she'll be waiting?"

Ward laughed. "I did. Pippa Rice. She's a former soldier, too, and she's got kick ass skills at keeping the peace."

Wood pulled into the parking lot at the bar and got his first glimpse of a tall, willowy woman. "Dude, she'd blow away in a windstorm. No way am I gonna rely on her to help keep the peace."

Ward's voice went terse. "Trust me. She can hold her own. And you will give this a shot. If you don't, I'll proceedings to dissolve our partnership."

Well, fuck. Wood didn't want to lose the bar or his brother. Not when Ward would be joining civilian life soon.

Wood grumbled. "Fine. I'm not thrilled about this, but I'll see what she can do."

Ward snickered. "Thought you'd be agreeable." A shuffling sound came over the line. "Shit. I gotta go. Don't be a dick when you talk to Pippa and get your ass to therapy." He signed off.

Wood pulled into his spot and got a better look at Pippa Rice. She wore jeans and a tank top coupled with battered combat boots. Her hands were in her back pockets and her face gave away nothing.

Wood cut the engine and pocketed his phone. He'd give Pippa a chance. He didn't have much of a choice because his brother insisted. Probably wouldn't be a hardship either. Pippa Rice happened to be gorgeous even if she did look like a heavy gust of wind would knock her over.

Wood might not think he's met his match, but he so totally has.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Transference

I'm so excited because for the first time in over twenty years—actually, maybe longer—I got some new furniture. It's kind of my holiday present from everyone in the family. A new small recliner and a new couch. I'll be adding a chaise at some point but haven't found one I like yet. The couch story is an entire saga and I didn't expect it until December 23, but it arrived Friday!

I also had a super-busy work schedule, which had me buried for most of the week. I'm definitely not complaining. I love to be busy.

Had a decent week of television but somewhat abbreviated. I started with the Madam Blanc Mysteries. I'm quite enjoying how the larger mystery arc is being woven into the weekly episodes.

I finished up the second part of Silent Witness and started a new episode. Gotta say I'm now into episodes I haven't seen yet. The first part left quite a cliffhanger. I'm a little freaked out.

I caught a full arc of Classic Who and, yes, the Master showed up. I started a new four-part arc and I think this is when we say goodbye to Five. I'll let you know next week.

Watched Mysteries of Apollo and this episode focused on NASA's first heroes, mainly the astronauts from Mercury and Gemini. Quite an interesting episode.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Muppet Show. Senor Wences and Bruce Schwartz and Debbie Harry were the guest stars. Both were fun episodes.

Caught another episode of Fantasy Island. I'm quite happy with this updated version. Looking forward to the holiday episode.

Watched an episode of Peak Practice. An interesting plot with this one. Kind of cool to get a little more backstory for Andrew.

Started a new MasterClass. The instructor is Bill Nye and I can't wait to dive into his classes.

Caught two episodes of Classic Rugrats. Season two is a lot of fun with some memorable stories.

Enjoyed a holiday episode of Chicago Med. Gotta say Dr. Charles is going through it right now. Actually, both of them are. A really great episode nonetheless.

Watched another Brokenwood Mysteries. As usual, this show makes me happy. I love the characters and their interactions. Kind of interesting to meet another one of Mike's exes.

That's pretty much it for this week. Tonight's post is from Transference, a novella that lets my characters explore grief while finding their way to each other.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Leslie Karr is packing her meager belongings to move into a new apartment and finds a letter from Granger Unger explaining why their night of shared grief over the loss of his brother can't go anywhere. After three years, Leslie still wonders if he may have been wrong and decides to test the waters by looking him up before she leaves town.

And a snippety peek…

Granger recognized the changes in Leslie when she entered the coffee shop.

He rose to greet her. "Les? Over here."

She gave him a smile and waved then went to place her order.

She'd let her hair grow out and wore it in a pert ponytail today. She'd also ditched the standard hoodie and battered jeans she'd favored the last time he'd seen her for a pair of bright leggings and willowy cardigan over a fitted T-shirt. Her soft leather ankle boots matched the cardigan in a steely gray color.

His heart rate kicked up a notch when she strolled over to the table, carrying an iced matcha if the green color indicated anything.

He stood and leaned to give her a one-armed hug. "I'm glad you called and happy we could meet."

She grinned and settled across from him. "I can't believe how lame that message was … or that you called me back." Her cheeks colored.

Granger laughed. "Honestly, it surprised me in the best possible way. Work is a grind right now and hearing your voice made my entire day." He took a long sip of his coffee.

She tilted her head. "Tell me everything that's been going on in your life…"

Two hours later, he'd fallen for her all over again. Could that be possible? He glanced in his rearview mirror to make sure she continued to follow him. She had the address programmed into her GPS but he didn't want to lose sight of her.

His hands tightened on the steering wheel. "I can't believe she's really here." How many time had he thought about her over the last few years?

More than he would've admitted to if anyone asked before today.

Turning into his drive, he cut the engine and waited for her to pull in behind him.

He got out and met her at the sidewalk leading to his porch. "Thanks for agreeing to stop in for a while." Unlocking the door, he pushed it open and motioned for her to precede him.

She entered and glanced around. "Lovely home. How long have you been here?"

He chuckled. "Just under a year. I got lucky and bought the place when an older couple wanted to give assisted living a try." He hadn't actually been looking for a house, but a promotion came through and a realtor he played softball with told him about the place.

Eleven months later, he'd finally started getting used to the idea he owned a house.

Leslie moved into the living room. "Thanks for asking me to come. It's nice to see you found a niche and got settled." She glanced over her shoulder. "Gives me hope I'll find my way, too."

He gave a nod. "You're interviewing at three great companies. I'd love to hear more about how that came about." Setting his keys on a side table, he led her into the kitchen. "Why don't I make some sandwiches and you can fill me in."

She sat at the table and he pulled the bread and cold cuts out of the fridge to start making lunch.

My brother's former girlfriend is in my house and I don't want her to leave.

This story keeps surprising me and I'm enjoying that aspect. Leslie and Granger are rediscovering their connection and it's interesting to explore how they navigate things.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Toying with Desire

Hello, December. I'm stuck between being excited for the holiday season and freaking out because I have a lot of things I'd like to get accomplished and not enough time to slide them all in. The story of my life.

Not a bad week of television but a little lighter than usual. I started out with Peak Practice and ended up getting two episodes watched. Both were pretty decent.

Finished up the MasterClass with Brandon McMillan. I had two lessons left and got some great information from both. Not sure what I'll start next but I'm excited.

Caught another episode of Glitch. Some interesting developments and good information. I like the pacing of this series and find I need to focus so I don't miss an important piece of the puzzle.

Enjoyed two more episodes of Classic Rugrats. I finished up season one and started season two. Looking forward to diving back in.

Watched two episodes of Chicago Med. Season three is beginning with a good run. I'm a little on the fence about Dr. Reese. I love her passion but I also get annoyed when she goes off the deep end about something.

Started season six of The Brokenwood Mysteries. Interesting to see another one of Mike's ex wives. I liked having Jared back. Also a good mystery to keep things fun.

Caught an episode of Silent Witness. I don't remember this one so I'm interested to see how the second half ends.

Finished the second part of Classic Who and said goodbye to Tegan. I think the Master is going to make another appearance soon, which I'm kind of meh about.

Enjoyed another episode of Mysteries of Apollo. This one focused on Apollo 8 and had some great information. I love watching old footage of the space program's beginning.

Watched two more episodes of The Muppet Show. James Coburn and Glenda Jackson were the guest stars. The pirate-themed episode ended up being a lot of fun.

Caught another episode of Fantasy Island. Really fun episode even if the theme ended up being a little dark.

Finally caught the finale of Star Trek: Discovery. Really great ending to the first season. I'm excited to start the breakdowns of The Ready Room then move on to season two.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Toying with Desire, a novella with the characters learning to let go of preconceived notions and stay in the moment.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Carly Johnson, a savvy business owner who sells sex toys, isn't looking for love … her track record is terrible. But when she meets Zeke Moran, under less than stellar circumstances, sparks fly and Carly wants to take a chance … but first he has to get over his preconceived ideas about her career.

And a snippety peek…

Stunned speechless, Zeke watched Carly walk away. Magnificent. Even regarding her blazing set down directed at him. She certainly shed some light on previously unknown details.

Which shame on him for not taking the time to find out about those pesky tidbits.

He had no idea Lola almost slept with someone else. No clue his sister struggled so much with Rich's absence.

He wondered what else he might be missing.

Maybe he should dig deeper.

Taking off after Carly, he caught up in several long strides. "Wait." He grasped her upper arm, which earned him a cool glare. "Please, wait. I'm sorry."

"Dude. You better take your hands off Carly right now or I will kick your ass." The guy from the bar—buzz cut hair, tall, bulked up, and majorly pissed off—snarled the words.

Zeke had been so intent on apologizing he missed seeing the guy waiting by her car. To keep the peace, he loosened his grip, letting his hand slide down the length of Carly's arm before dropping away.

"I wasn't trying to hurt her. You can cut the guard dog act." Not sure what this guy meant to Carly, Zeke tamped down some irrational jealousy.

The dude advanced toward Zeke and Carly stepped forward. "Todd's not a guard dog, he's my best friend." She moved in between the two men. "Todd, meet Zeke Moran, Lola's brother. Zeke, Todd." Tossing the keys to her "best friend", Lola reached for the passenger door. "Drive me, home? I'm completely wiped."

She did look tired. Zeke wondered how much of his asshat act contributed to that. "Let me buy you coffee. Please." When Lola paused before sliding into the car, he let out the breath he'd been holding. "I really am sorry for jumping on you. I guess I didn't realize how bad things were for Lola."

Carly smiled, albeit with sadness. "You might try talking to her about it. She's very, very lonely without Rich."

Zeke promised. "I'll do that." But he pressed his invitation. "About that coffee?"

Carly flicked her gaze to Todd and the other man rolled his eyes and opened the driver's side door when she stood to get out. "My phone is on…" He left off the implied use it if you need to.

He slid inside the car, fired up the engine, and took off as soon as Carly closed the passenger door.

She still looked wary when she moved to stand beside Zeke. "I know a great place for coffee if you don't mind me choosing."

Zeke took her elbow. "As long as it's not Ground Central, I'm fine with whatever you want." He led her the few yards to his car.

Carly chuckled. "Can I make a confession? I hate their coffee." Climbing into his vehicle, she whispered. "Way too frou-frou for me." Then she closed her door.

Rounding the back of the car, Zeke thought he might just be in love.

I love how this story is coming together. Zeke starts out being the one needing to get over his initial impressions but Carly sneaks in later with some heavy baggage she needs to check also. So much fun!

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin