Sunday Snippet: Inked (a Black Unicorn Comics bonus scene)

We had a crazy week of weather. Rain, rain, rain, followed by wind, wind, wind. Lost power for a couple of hours and returned some of the neighbor's stuff that ended up in our backyard. Something tells me we're going to pay for a fairly mild winter with a chaotic and wild spring. Can't wait.

Good week on work projects and I finally made headway with clearing out my inbox on my old PC and I'm starting the transfer of files to my new computer. I can't wait to get this project done so I can go back to having one desktop instead of two in my workspace. Up next, tackling my laptop to see if I can get the graphics card to function again. Or, the issue could be related to a Windows update. Either way, I'm hoping I won't have to invest in a new laptop. Fingers crossed.

Not a bad week of television viewing. I didn't get quite as much watched as I did last week, but I got a few shows in.

I finished up the Classic Who episode I started last weekend and I'm kind of interested in how this one plays out. Hoping to get to the next part this week.

Watched the season twenty-one opener of Silent Witness. Nice to see some fallout from Nikki's Mexico trip. Jack is a little off and I'm curious to find out why. Love to see Clarissa out in the field because she's become a favorite character and shouldn't always be relegated to the lab.

Enjoyed another episode of Strangest Things. The items they discuss are always interesting and I love the speculative aspect when they really don't know exactly what they have.

Caught another episode of The Mandalorian. Bo Katan's introduction piqued my interest. I like how a different sect of Mandalorians are out there giving a different perspective.

Watched another episode of Only Murders in the Building. Thoroughly enjoyed discovering the building has secret passageways and tunnels. Loved the introduction of Lucy. I haven't changed my theory quite yet on who the killer might be, but we'll see what happens. Also nice to see Oliver show up for his son. Much needed character growth there.

Got to return to my Battlestar Galactica rewatch this week. While the episode doesn't rank as one of my favorites from season one, it's still a solid watch. Frankly, season one doesn't have a bad episode. It's probably the best first season of television I've watched.

Enjoyed another episode of Pennyworth. A few unexpected twists turned up and I'm here for those. I'm quite enjoying the slow discovery of how Alfred became Batman's butler. There's not a wasted moment on the screen.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Inked, a sexy short bonus read set in the Black Unicorn Comics series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Brian and Lucy are celebrating their anniversary and both have the same idea of getting a tattoo as a fun gift—but neither tells the other. The good news is both enjoy discovering where the other got inked.

And a snippety peek…

Lucy Sanderson had a mission to complete. "Gotta get this done before Brian comes to work." She entered the Black Unicorn office, poked her head into the bull pen and spotted the two people she needed to see.

Perfect.

She strolled in and stopped at Sosh's desk. "Got a minute?" Sosh would know exactly where to send Lucy.

Sosh tilted her head to one side. "You're up to no good, aren't you?" Her lips curved into a smirk.

Lucy arched her brows. "Sosh, I'm offended. Of course, I'm not." She jerked her head toward her desk then headed that way.

Sosh immediately followed because her curiosity would be piqued.

Zapf glanced up and narrowed his gaze. "What dragged you here at ugly o'clock? You're never in this early." He set his pens aside and folded his arms across his chest.

Lucy put a hand over her heart. "I'm wounded. Sosh just said I'm up to no good." She dumped her messenger bag on the floor next to her chair and waved her coworkers closer.

Zapf shot Sosh a quick side-eye before leaning in. "You're scaring me, Luce. What did that wild brain of yours think up this time?"

In all fairness, Zapf totally had her number. She routinely ran both crazy and brilliant ideas by him. But those drops always had to do with the comic book they produced. This idea … had nothing to do with work.

Sosh grabbed a chair and scooted in close. "And why do you need me?"

Lucy propped her butt on the edge of her desk. "I need to do something on the down low and can't do it alone."

Sosh widened her eyes. "Is it legal?"

Zapf laughed. "Of course, it is." He sobered, shooting Lucy a quick glance. "It is, right?"

Lucy rolled her eyes. "Yes, it's legal. Geez, you two are giving me a complex right now." She did a quick check to make sure they were still alone. "I have an anniversary coming up with Brian and I want to do something to blow his mind."

Zapf leaned back. "No way. Sosh and I aren't having a foursome with you." He amped up the drama by shaking his head back and forth. "Uh-uh. Not gonna happen, babes."

Sosh smacked his arm. "Shut up. I wanna hear what she's got planned." She turned her attention back to Lucy. "Come on, spill."

Lucy lowered her voice. "I'm going to get a tattoo, but I want to surprise Brian. Meaning Z-Man needs to keep his big yap shut." She sent a pointed look in Zapf's direction.

He made a motion of zipping his lips and throwing away the key. "Mum's the word, Luce."

She got serious. "Will you design something? Nothing too elaborate because I have to be able to get it done in one session."

He gave a nod. "You got it. End of day, I'll have something for you."

She smiled her thanks and met Sosh's gaze. "And I'm hoping you'll share your artist's name because they do excellent work."

Sosh flashed a smile. "I'll do one better. I'll set the appointment up for you." She crossed her heart. "And promise Brian won't find out from me either." She rubbed her hands together. "This is a great idea."

Lucy nodded. "Glad you think so. Thought it would be a fun way to celebrate." She got up and hugged both of her coworkers. "Knew I could count on you two."

I have so much love for Lucy and Brian and their group of coworkers. This is going to be so much fun to write!

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Indecision

It's been an eventful weekend. On Friday night at my daughter's university campus, an individual fired multiple shots at a baseball game. Thankfully—and it pains me to say this at all because it shouldn't be anyone—only one person, a player for the opposing team, and the alleged target of the shooter, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect is already in custody and has already been charged by the county prosecutor for attempted murder and felonious assault, both charges have firearm specifications. I'm very happy no one else was physically injured and I'm terribly sorry for the opposing team's player and their family. It's a lot to endure.

It's a lot to endure for everyone. The university staff, baseball team, students, the local community, and the opposing college, their staff, team, and students now have a shared experience with, unfortunately, too many others. I'm so happy my daughter wasn't anywhere near the baseball field when this occurred and I'm very happy the other players are okay. Like I said, an eventful weekend.

On top of that, I had a full week of work projects and made good progress on all of them.

I also got some television in. I didn't have a chance to do my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica, but we're on the schedule for next week.

I did finish up The Mandalorian. Ended up enjoying the episode a lot.

Also watched Only Murders in the Building. I have a working theory on who the killer will be and I can't wait to see if I'm right.

Caught another episode of Pennyworth and I like how this show is coming together. Looking forward to finishing out the season.

Started Wednesday, based on recommendations from a bunch of my viewing friends. Loved the first episode and look forward to more.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats and I think I actually watched on I missed during the thousands of times we watched this when the kids were growing up. Kind of happy to have that happen.

Caught another episode of Midsomer Murders. Loved this one and laughed out loud a couple of times. I guess one more episode to finish out the season.

Watched another episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. I'm at the midway point for season nine and getting more familiar with the new faces.

Started a new episode of Classic Who and should finish it up later tonight.

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

Here's the mini-blurb:

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…

Shandi Rhobles ducked under the awning and made her way to registration table. "Hi, I'm here to pick up my packet." She adjusted her tote bag, lifting it higher on her shoulder.

The student volunteer manning the M through Z section, glanced up with a smile. "Name?"

Shandi spelled it out. "R-h-o-b-l-e-s. First name Shandi." She waited for the volunteer to find the card and hand over the welcome package.

The student gave Shandi another wide smile. "Welcome to Brandywine University. You're in Finney. Do you know how to get there?"

Shandi nodded. "I do. I've been here for summer music programs, and we stayed in Patterson right across the road." Tucking the packet into her tote, she started backing out of the way. "Thanks!"

Hoping to make a quick exit, she didn't pay attention and turned directly into another incoming freshman.

"Oof. Sorry." His hands grasped her elbows. "Wasn't paying attention."

Shandi glanced up and blinked. Wow. Hot and handsome. But he shouldn't be taking the blame.

She shook her head. "Nope. That was all me." She backed away a little and introduced herself. "Shandi Rhobles. I'm usually not a total wreck." Geez, she loved the way his eyes stayed right on her.

He lifted his chin. "Forrest Cox. I think I'm in Patterson or maybe Finney. Not sure yet." He nodded toward the table. "Guess I'll find out in a minute."

She kind of hoped for Finney. Be nice to show him she could actually act like a normal person. Then again, Brandywine being a private university meant she'd definitely see him around campus.

She stepped back again. "I'll let you find out. Nice meeting you."

Forrest shuffled ahead. "Yeah, feel free to bump into me anytime."

She laughed, ducked out from under the awning, and headed for her car. "Not a graceful beginning to university life, but definitely interesting."

I have no idea where this story is going to go but it's a lot of fun to write.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Incursion

Very busy week with work projects and client calls. My youngest was also in the UK over her spring break for a study abroad program. She's back in the States today.

Weather is all over the place, which is typical for March. We had sunny and warm followed by chilly and rainy, followed by brrrrr! and some flurries. I can't wait to see what the next two or three weeks brings to the playing field.

Had an okay week for television. I didn't get back on my regular schedule, but I did get a few things watched.

Started out with some Classic Rugrats. Only watched one episode but enjoyed it. I always like the episodes where Angelica is bested by the babies.

Watched another episode of Midsomer Murders. I'm kind of bummed Barnaby's degree in psychology isn't a thing anymore. I enjoyed that aspect in the first few seasons of John's tenure.

I finished an episode of Endeavor and enjoyed it. Glad to be back into this show. I'm a few seasons behind but I'll get caught up eventually.

Caught another episode of Classic Who. This one started a new arc and I'm excited to see where it goes. There might have been a hint about Ace's mom and I want to see if pans out.

Completed season twenty of Silent Witness. Really liked how the episode played out and I'm interested in how Nikki and Jack deal with the fallout of their trip to Mexico.

Watched another episode of Strangest Things. A couple of interesting features in this one, especially the bat bomb that destroyed an entire air force base.

Also started a new episode of The Mandalorian. I'll finish it up later today while I prep for the new season.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Incursion, a novella that gives the main characters a second chance at romance in the middle of a two-pronged attack.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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…

"You're an ass, Trace." Marlie stormed into the office and slammed the door.

Trace expected her and she didn't disappoint. They had some unfinished business. And he probably had some groveling to do.

Marlie slapped the memo on his desk. "I refuse to be on your detail. You're an idiot to insist I lead the team." She folded her arms over her chest.

Trace set his pen aside with deliberation. "Forgive me, but what's your reason? I want the best and you're it." Two years hadn't changed her much—she still went for a direct cut.

Her eyes rolled. "Are you kidding? Backhanded compliments don't work on me." She relaxed her arms but paced back and forth. "We had something good. Or at least the beginning of something good." She stopped and pinned him with a hard gaze. "You left."

He winced inwardly. "Because my brother died." He spread his hands out. "This was his gig. His dream." Rising, he moved around the desk and propped a hip on the side. "My parents couldn't deal with the loss, and someone had to run the company." Unfortunately, that job fell to him.

Her gaze softened for a moment. "I get that part." She snapped back to fiery woman. "The part I don't get? Why you had to cut me out of your life to do it." Hurt came through loud and clear in her tone.

He ran a hand through his hair. "It wasn't my first choice. But I had no idea how long I'd have to manage the company and my parents." Their grief weighed them down along with him. "I couldn't ask you to wait. I wouldn't do that to you." He shoulders slumped. "Took me the first year to catch up and figure out the ins and outs of what Barth had going on here. A year of working twelve to eighteen hours a day while checking in on Mom and Dad, trying to keep them engaged with life." He shook his head. "I had no time for anything else. Or anyone else." He met her gaze. "How fair would that have been to you?" Hell, it hadn't been fair to him.

She lifted one shoulder. "Yeah, it wouldn't have been." The acknowledgment came out grudgingly.

But he considered the concession progress.

He straightened and moved to stare out the window. "I spent the second year getting the company back in good shape and ready for a merger." He glanced over his shoulder. "And now that we're at that point, the death threats started coming in. Someone doesn't want this merger to go through." His gaze went to the window again. "My parents back the idea. They want to see what Barth started continue to grow." He moved away from the window and back to the desk. "I can't let them know about the threats. Not after they lost my brother. They'd squash the merger plans if they thought they could end up with two dead children." Settling on the edge of the desk, he picked up the memo Marlie put there. "I hired First Tier because I trust Frank's company to keep me safe until the merger goes through." Raising his gaze to hers, he laid out the rest. "I want you on the detail because you know me better than anyone." And … he missed her…

Marlie made a growling sound. "Damn you, Trace. You're still an ass." Her stance relaxed. "But, fine. I'll lead the team."

Victory … at last.

I just started this story recently and I'm excited to see where it goes.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: In Support of Defense

March entered the room with some wild weather, which isn't a big surprise. Still having the back and forth chilly then warm and lots of rain and wind. I expect nothing less from my birth month.

Got a lot accomplished on my work projects. I have a new one coming in sometime in the next week or two and I'm looking forward to jumping into another new one this week.

Didn't get a lot of television watched this week, but I got a few episodes in.

Finished up The Mandalorian episode I started and thoroughly enjoyed it. My brother used to be obsessed with the sand people so it's fun to see them in action in this episode.

My Battlestar Galactica rewatch continued with "Act of Contrition." So many great moments in this episode and the acting is stellar. For a show that came out twenty years ago, I have vivid memories of watching this for the first time.

I also caught another episode of Only Murders in the Building. I kind of love where they're taking things at the moment. It'll be hard to top the first season for me, but I'm excited to see how this plays out. I'm really hoping it holds up.

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

Here's the mini-blurb:

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…

Arnie Cherlin stood on the porch of his childhood best friend's home. "Let's see what the professor wants." He raised his hand and knocked on the door.

Ben Francis came from privilege and never cared that Arnie didn't. Ben made sure Arnie had a place to stay when his mom went on weekend benders and forgot to come home. Ben also found a way to get Arnie into buckling down and paying attention in school.

The door opened and Ben greeted him with a distracted smile. "Arnie! Thanks for coming." Stepping back, he invited Arnie inside the quaint cottage Ben lived in on the outskirts of the university campus.

Arnie didn't like the vibe coming from his friend, but he followed him into the small living room. "What's going on? You're pinging red alert even if you're trying to be cool about it." He flashed a smile when Ben stopped short and narrowed his gaze.

Ben waved Arnie to a side chair. "How do you do that? I never could get anything past you." He sat on the edge of the sofa.

Arnie shrugged. "You know I got good at reading people when my mom came home from one of her lost weekends." He never knew if he'd have happy Maureen or angry Maureen. "And the air force honed my skills with their cryptology program." Decrypting body language took a distinct skill set.

Ben shook his head. "And you want me to cut to it, right?" Leaning forward, he rested his forearms on his knees. "You probably need to get back to … wherever it is you work."

Arnie cracked another grin. "I don't always have a specific location. And I don't mind getting a little work-life balance on occasion." He propped his ankle on his knee. "But you didn't ask me here to play catch up, so yeah, what's going on?" A knot of worry coiled in his gut.

Ben heaved a sigh. "You work for some kind of government agency, right? Like you have resources you can use to help people?" His eyes filled with banked concern … and fear.

The knot grew tighter. "Are you in trouble, Ben?" Probably a stupid question because the universe didn't make straighter arrows than Ben Francis.

Ben shook his head again. "No. Not at all." He straightened and squared his shoulder. "I'm worried about Cricket. She's getting in deep with gambling and owes a significant amount."

Arnie's eyes widened. "Your half-sister Cricket?" Of course Ben meant his sibling … how many people named their daughters Cricket? "Didn't she become a nurse?" The type that wanted to save the world. "Did you say underground gambling?" What the hell?

Ben got up and paced back and forth. "To answer your questions. Yes. Yes. And yes." He sat back down. "Can you please help her? Or, do you have any suggestions for how I can help her?"

Arnie is definitely thrown but he won't turn Ben down. Arnie will call on his boss, Derby Stack from Justice is Served, to help out.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin