Sunday Snippet: Hot Water

I had a jam-packed week of setting up a new PC and transferring files while trying to also stay on top of my work projects. In all honesty, I can't complain about the process. Of course, things went wrong because that's how it always goes. I didn't have the right cable to connect my monitor to the tower, but I found one in my stash of never-throw-away-this-type-of-thing pile of stuff I keep for that sole purpose. And once I figured out how to configure the network, transferring files has gone pretty smooth. I have a couple of final things to work out but I can take some time to do that stuff.

Didn't watch a lot of television because I needed to focus and my desk had several variations before I got the final layout figured out.

I did finish out season three of Batman: The Animated Series. I'm happy I got it done before the great wipeout from all existence. The episodes to complete the series were "Judgment Day," which I loved, "Beware the Creeper," which I also kind of enjoyed, and "Mad Love," which seems like a weird episode to end on because it's all about the Joker and Harley, but it's actually a terrific endcap for the series, because it's also about the role Batman plays in that relationship.

I also started a Battlestar Galactica rewatch with one of my best friends. We're doing weekly viewings and we've started with the miniseries. There were so many little things I'd forgotten and a lot of iconic stuff I definitely remembered. This show had such an impact on me and I'm kind of excited and terrified to travel on the journey again. LOL

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Hot Water, a novella where the characters bond over not having enough hot water at the summer camp they work for.

Here's the mini-blurb:

When Demi Strange and Nathan Jordan work together at a summer camp, things get heated. The campers use up the water ration, leaving Demi to borrow Nathan's shower and it lands her in more than hot water.

And a snippety peek…

Nathan joined Demi at her table in the dining hall. "Okay if I sit?" He didn't wait for an answer, settling across from her.

She glanced up, smiled briefly, and went back to her salad.

Nathan tucked in to the cottage cheese. "Have you decided what you're going to do after college?" He gave her his full attention because he wanted her to know he enjoyed her conversation.

Demi shrugged. "I have a solid idea of what I want to do, but I'm keeping options open." She finished the pasta in the bowl on her plate. "Carol mentioned you have several interviews this summer." She asked him about the jobs he'd applied for and how the interview process worked for him.

Nate happily explained, but also returned the focus back to her several times. By the time he'd finished eating, he couldn't believe almost forty-five minutes had passed.

Scooping up his tray along with hers, he arched a brow. "I'm not making you late for anything, am I?" He didn't check the schedule before he hit the mess hall.

Demi shook her head. "It's Mitzi's turn to get the girls through the evening bathroom ritual." She walked with him to stow the trays by the washing station. "Hopefully, she'll get them settled with their daily thirty minutes of screen time by the time I get there."

Nathan held the door open and fell into step beside Demi. "Mind if I walk you to the dorm?"

She tilted her head and gave him a flirty smile. "Not at all." She paused a moment. "Am I sensing an effort being made here?"

Nate answered honestly. "Yes. A genuine one. I really like you and I hate how my playboy rep is biting me on the ass because I'd really like a shot with you." They turned down the path leading to the girls' cabins.

Demi laughed. "Gotta admit, I didn't think you had it in you." She stopped at the gravel walkway.

Nate leaned in close to her. "I want to kiss you. Is that okay?"

She gave a startled nod, and he cupped her chin for a quick, hard lip-lock.

Easing back, he inclined his head. "That's to show I'm serious. I hope you'll give me a chance to prove I've turned over a new leaf."

Demi blinked. "Uh, okay. I'm willing to see where things go."

Nate couldn't ask for more. He lifted a hand in farewell and strolled back toward the main camp.

I love how much Nathan wants to prove he's changed and isn't going to be a player anymore and how startled Demi is.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Hot Not Date

Had a fairly decent week with work projects coming together and the upper respiratory yuck staying solidly in the background. I continued improving and the cough is down to a manageable level with over-the-counter meds. Whew.

I'm almost finished with Batman: The Animated Series and then I'll get back to a wider variety of shows again. This week's episodes were "Love is a Croc," "The Ultimate Thrill," "Cult of the Cat," which I go back and forth on whether I like it or not. "Critters" is not one of my favorites. I do love "Animal Act" because Dick gets to revisit his circus family and it's followed by my favorite season three episode of "Old Wounds," which shows the messy breakup of Batman and Robin and how Batgirl played a role. I have a few issues with season three and one of them is the way Bruce / Batman became a complete hardass and, quite frankly, a giant dick a lot of the time.

"Legends of the Dark Knight" is fun because it's a complete departure from the norm and explores a couple of alternate versions of the dynamic duo.

Almost forgot about "Girls' Night Out," with Live Wire and Supergirl guest starring. That's a fun episode.

I finished up with "Chemistry," which is kind of a meh episode for me. I think I have three more episodes and I'll have the rewatch completed.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Hot Not Date, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

When Keefer meets Bryce, she's on a date with Mark and Keefer is bummed she's already taken. But things aren't exactly as they seem and by the end of the night, Keefer discovers his insta-crush may not be one-sided.

And a snippety peek…

Keefer Duncan hung the phone up and turned to his brother. "Yo, Reg, Matize is down with whatever disgusting ick is going around so we're minus a server." Digging into his pocket, he found a quarter.

Reggie grunted. "Told him to stay home, yeah? Don't need him spreading his germs everywhere." He came out from behind the counter and nodded to Keefer.

Keefer flipped the coin and caught it in his fist.

Reggie called his preference. "Heads."

Keefer opened his palm. "You win. I'll serve tonight. We can flip for it again tomorrow." He shoved the quarter back into his pocket, stripped off his chef's jacket, and snagged a Duncan's on the Square T-shirt.

Reggie lifted his chin. "You gonna pay for that?"

Keefer laughed. "Consider it a donation to a good cause." He swapped shirts, grabbed an apron, and logged in to the electronic server.

Reggie shook his head. "You do realize we're down a chef now, right?" He made his way back behind the line prep area.

Keefer rolled a shoulder. "Yeah, but if we ask Dylan to stick around through the rush, we should be okay. I'll have the hosts start prepping salads before the crush really starts and we can shift gears when needed." Not like they didn't have a system in place for this kind of thing.

Reggie grinned. "Good to wade out in the trenches sometimes, too. No job is too small…"

Keefer cracked a smile. "Even when you own the joint." Their shared office, a tiny cubicle by the back entrance, had the slogan painted on its primary wall.

Reggie gave a nod and went back to prepping a veg medley for the special stir-fry on tonight's menu.

Keefer liked the banter with his brother. Reg finally seemed to be having fun again after a rough couple of months nursing his wounds over a breakup. Keefer gave him space and he'd refrained from bringing anyone home since they shared a house as well as the restaurant.

Pushing through the café doors, Keefer figured he might get lucky tonight if he played his server cards right.

Keefer is going on something of a weird trip where he thinks his radar is completely broken and it's going to be fun to watch it unfold.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Hot Action

Ugh. What a week. I ended up succumbing to the upper respiratory yuck that started with my middle kiddo. I took him to the doctor on Monday and by late that evening, I already started feeling pretty ick. Slept most of the day on Tuesday—not kidding, about fifteen hours—and still felt terrible on Wednesday, with worsening symptoms, continuous cough, inability to breathe regularly, and basically everything hurt, up to and including my hair. Got in to see the doctor on Thursday afternoon, got tested for the flu, which came back negative, got something for the cough and came home. Finally got some additional sleep and started feeling slightly better by Friday evening. Continued to improve Saturday and finally think I've turned the corner. Going to take everything nice and slow through Tuesday and follow up with the doctor, but at least I can think clearly again. Definitely a wild ride for a few days.

Did not get a lot of television watched. Well, I did. But I don't remember a huge chunk of it. I did get some additional episodes of Batman: The Animated Series in before falling off the cliff of craziness.

Finished up "Joker's Millions," which I remember but forgot how much I actually enjoyed. Also caught "Growing Pains," "Mean Seasons," a truly excellent episode, "The Demon Within," "Over the Edge," and "Torch Song."

I hope I can still finish up the final season before HBOMax sucks the joy out of life by removing it from their service. Fingers crossed I don't end up with a new yuck thing to deal with.

That's more than anyone wanted to know about my life this week! Tonight's post is from Hot Action, a sexy short that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Hans and Sylvia are working together during a summer program and sparks fly. They don't act on the attraction—neither can commit to anything serious because both still have another year of college at different universities. But when Sylvia hears her name coming from the shower area, she can't resist finding out why and her discovery makes for some hot action with Hans.

And a snippety peek…

Sylvia Ramone tracked Hans Medbrook when he carried four wooden crates into the main hall. "Mmm. He's definitely gonna be handy to have around." And very easy on the eyes.

Which would be her major challenge for the ten-week summer program at the state fairgrounds—not falling for the hot guy.

She shook her head and started for the row of tiny trailers lining the north campground where all the participants were being housed. "I have two semesters before graduation. I can't commit to anything serious." Especially since the information hotline had Hans at a prominent university in the southern part of the state and her college campus bordered on the shores of a great lake.

Yeah, too close to being done to start a long-distance commute for a potential boyfriend.

Sylvia entered the small trailer she'd been assigned in the female section of the grounds. Super-basic with a dining sectional that could be converted to a sleeping area, a small sink, counter, stove, fridge along one wall, a storage space, a toilet sans shower area, and a full-size mattress with drawers underneath along the back of the unit. Definitely cramped quarters, but not horrible for a single person.

She unzipped the suitcase she'd stashed inside earlier and started unpacking. Once she had a cute layout, she took a picture and posted it to her social media. First day of orientation in the books! Time to meet and greet my fellow neighbors…

She laughed. "And figure out where the showers are, if they're going to insist on specific times, and whether they're going to be coed or not." So many questions, so little time.

Actually, she'd put her money on the showers being in the middle of the north campground, an even distance for the men and women. They'd try to post a schedule for when the showers could be used, but no one would stick to it. And by the third day, coed would be the norm.

Tucking her personal toiletries into the storage compartment by the toilet, she grabbed her water jug and headed out to fill up the gallon-sized container.

"Maybe I'll get a glimpse of Hans again…"

Haven't quite decided where this story is going … well, it knows where it wants to go but I'm trying not to rush getting there.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: The Honeymoon Plot

Well, the first week of 2023 is in the books and we're off to a wild start. Here's hoping the weird and bizarre world stage eventually settles in to what's supposed to be the Age of Aquarius. I have my fingers crossed.

Had a busy work week with multiple projects being added to my schedule. I'm excited to get started on them! The weather did it's usually mild temperatures dropping down to cold ones. I'm okay with the cold … if it stays cold.

Had an okay viewing week. I'm still continuing my rewatch of Batman: The Animated Series. I think I'll have it completed before HBOMax removes it from screening. Then I'll probably start back on my usual schedule.

I finished up the second season, which had a strong finish with "The Terrible Trio," "Showdown," "Catwalk," "A Bullet for Bullock," and "The Lion and the Unicorn," which is one of my favorites because it dives into Alfred's backstory.

Season three begins with "Holiday Knights," which is a favorite holiday-themed episode. I do wonder and can't remember if it ended up being shown out of order in the original run. I'm too lazy to check Imdb to find out.

I have some feelings about the drastic change in animation style for season three. There are a few things I really enjoy, but I'm not a fan of the reimagined villains or the complete total makeover they gave Bruce. I am fond of the updated storylines, moving Dick Grayson to Nightwing and adding Tim Drake. I left off on "Joker's Millions" and should finish that episode this week.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Honeymoon Plot, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Wynonna Davis and Gaffney Wesson, the maid of honor and best man for their best friends, hatch a plot to send the couple on a surprise honeymoon for their first anniversary. In the process of planning the fabulous getaway, Wy and Gaff find themselves falling for each other, which may lead to another wedding.

And a snippety peek…

Wynonna Davis pulled her newly married best friend Rose into a big hug. "Congratulations, Rosie. I wish this could've been the wedding you hoped for." She eased away to find tears shimmering in Rose's eyes.

Rose dashed them away. "How is it possible to be so happy yet incredible sad at the same time?" She shook her head.

Her husband put an arm around her shoulders. "Because no one expected to lose your gram three days before the ceremony." He pressed a kiss to her temple. "It's only natural to mourn the loss, especially since she raised you."

The best man, Gaffney Wesson, poked his head into the small chapel. "Byrne? I've got the car waiting for the new Mr. and Mrs. Sinclair." He swept an arm toward the steps. "And everyone wants to give you their best wishes."

Wynonna glanced outside. Sure enough, the group of thirty guests, scaled way down from the original one hundred, lined the walkway waiting for Rose and Byrne to exit the church.

Wynonna gathered the bouquets and led the couple to the door. Gaffney fell into step beside her and they made their way to the vehicle while Rose and Byrne accepted well wishes and congratulations. By the time they made it through the small crowd, Gaffney sat behind the wheel and Wynonna had the back doors open for the couple.

Rose slid inside and let out a watery sigh. "It's so weird that I'll be accepting condolences from the same group in two days." She placed her head on Byrne's shoulder when he got seated.

Wynonna took her spot in the front passenger seat and slid her gaze toward Gaffney. He glanced in the rearview mirror. "Sure I can't take you guys to the Waterton? Might be good have a night to yourselves." He put the car in gear and started down the gravel drive.

Wynonna silently thanked him for broaching the topic. She'd suggested something similar. People had been dropping by the Barrett house, offering sympathy and food, along with leaving wedding presents. All in all, it had been a surreal few days.

Byrne met Rosie's gaze before answering. "Appreciate the offer, but we're still finalizing the arrangements and Rose has some pictures she wants to sort through."

Gaffney lifted his chin. "I understand. We'll head to the house then." He glanced toward Wynonna with an apology in his eyes.

Her lips curved slightly. He'd given it his best shot. She didn't blame him for not making headway.

Rose sniffled a little. "Wy, I know you'd do the pictures, but I think it'll help me say good-bye, you know? And Byrne's already losing the deposit on the honeymoon package and his two-weeks off will be helping me figure out how to navigate settling Gram's estate." She sucked in a deep breath. "Thank you both so much. I'm not sure I'd have made it through the past few days without you stepping in so Byrne could hold my hand through everything."

Wynonna met Gaffney's gaze. He caught the fact Rose seemed to be rambling about random topics and mixing them all together. He sent a silent message suggesting she change the subject.

Wynonna turned in the seat a little. "Gaff and I worked well together. You and Byrne have great taste in best friends." The answering chuckles meant she accomplished her goal of lightening the mood.

She'd met Gaffney all of twice before Mona Barrett's death. But they had worked well together, splitting the list of people to call and text, arranging to postpose the reception, cancelling the DJ, and putting the caterer and bartender on hold. Gaffney didn't shy away from doing his fair share and didn't grump or growl when he'd had to return several cases of alcohol to the distributor.

Wynonna couldn't imagine a better person to go through the trial by fire they'd gone through to get their friends married.

And he's easy on the eyes, which helps.

Rose laced her fingers with Byrne's. "We do know all the best people."

He squeezed her hand. "And they take very good care of us." He nodded toward the window. "We're here."

After a brief flurry of activity to get the couple into the house and a quick round of good-byes, Wynonna stood on the porch with Gaffney. Her heart ached for Rose, but Byrne would make sure she got through the night. Wynonna wished she had that kind of support … an empty apartment would be the only thing welcoming her home tonight.

Crap!

Her head dropped back. "Damn. I'm such an idiot." She'd taken an uber with Rose to the church and left her car at home.

Gaffney's lips quirked. "No, you aren't." He nudged her shoulder. "I planned to give you a lift." He crooked his elbow, ready to escort her home.

She sent a smile his way and wrapped her fingers around his arm. "You really are the best." At least one of them thought ahead.

This is a newly started work and it's taking shape in a way I didn't expect. Looking forward to seeing what Wy and Gaff come up with.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Healthy Appetite

Welcome 2023! Here's hoping everyone has a great year filled with everything good and terrific!

The final week of the year ended up being crazy busy. The weather started out pretty frigid but by the final day, we had temperatures in the fifties. I'm taking extra precautions because rapid changes in the weather wreak havoc on my sinuses.

I got a few more episodes of Batman: The Animated Series viewed. "Harley's Holiday" is one of my favorites. There's a lot of good stuff in that episode.

"Make 'Em Laugh" is also a fun episode. Very interesting to see the Joker as a regular Joe … until he's not anymore.

Batgirl returned and became pals with Catwoman, which ended up being a lot of fun to watch. I do have some questions on how Selena knew to post her message on the campus message board. Just saying.

"Lock-Up" is one I'd forgotten about, but I enjoyed it. I loved the ending where he pretty much gets exactly what he wanted in a weird, twisted way.

I also got to watch "Deep Freeze" and enjoyed having Victor back for a bit. Also nice to see another familiar face, which if memory serves, we might see again.

I'll be continuing the rewatch and hopefully get through the rest of season two and all of three before they're removed from the streaming service. I'm very annoyed over losing great shows for someone else's bottom line. Grrr.

That's pretty much it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Healthy Appetite, a novella where the characters are extremely different but find common ground during a vacation.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Thad Nightingale meets Kailey Dent during a weeklong getaway and finds her approach to life refreshing. Not only does she eat with gusto, she has a thirst for adventure that leaves Thad hungry for more.

And a snippety peek…

Kailey grinned when Thad closed the takeout box and set it aside before tucking into the noodles again. He closed his eyes and nodded, giving her a moment to ogle him unchecked. The man's face should be on a billboard somewhere.

She swirled more food onto her fork. "Definitely going to have to sing the praises of this place to anyone and everyone. It's excellent." Her social media post wouldn't have a picture of the food, but her descriptions should suffice.

Thad asked her about Talon and whether she had money on the outcome.

She shook her head. "Never on anything I'm currently associated with and coaching my brother keeps me in that category. My friendly wagers are only with people on the mountain."

They talked a little more about Talon's chances at a win and Thad's interest in the area. He had a good outlook and loved the laidback vibe of the location. Kailey added a plus to the pro column.

Halfway through the bowl of pasta and enjoying the moment of sharing her meal with Thad, Kailey spotted Talon entering with his friends. Ugh. Why did he have to come when I haven't quite made up my mind about Thad yet? If he saw them eating from the same bowl, he'd make assumptions—which she asked him to do, but, damn.

Maybe if she killed some time in the restroom, he and his buddies would get a spot in the back somewhere and never be the wiser?

Putting her fork down, she blew out a breath. "Whew." She scooted her chair out. "I'll be right back. I'm gonna hit the ladies'." She rose and glanced around until she figured out which direction she needed to go.

Thad lifted his chin and scooped up more noodles. Thankfully, his back faced the main bar where Talon currently stood surrounded by his group. She'd take five minutes to take care of business and hopefully her brother would be none the wiser.

She could always look him up on the way out…

I love this story. Kailey counts on Talon to have her back but she also wants to test the waters with Thad.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin