Sunday Snippet: A Simple Thing

Finally over the ick of the flu and a cold on top of it. Feeling so much better and happy about that. Got a good catch up on work projects and I'm relieved to be back on track.

Had a decent week of television again. I caught another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries and kind of missed Jared's presence. The episode ended up being pretty good and I enjoyed a twist I didn't quite see coming.

Watched both episodes of Silent Witness and actually remembered most of the plot line. Finished up season twelve and should get started on thirteen this week.

Caught two arcs of Classic Who. The first one didn't really thrill me but the second one ended up being better than I hoped. I'm liking the trio of companions.

Enjoyed two episodes of UFO Conspiracies. The first one had a series of stories about swarms of UFOs. The second had a series about footage caught on camera. Both were pretty interesting and I love seeing how military units in other countries handle sightings.

Ended up watching four episodes of The Muppet Show. Roger Miller, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, Lynn Redgrave, and Cheryl Ladd were the guest stars. I loved the Lynn Redgrave episode and the Robin Hood enactment.

Started a new season of Prime Suspect. I have vague memories of this one and look forward to the second half when everything pretty much blows up for Tennison.

Caught the first episode of season five Peak Practice. Andrew is back and Will's significant other had their baby. Pretty good beginning to the new season.

Enjoyed another lesson of Master Class with LeVar Burton. He talked about his storytelling heroes and I appreciated the insight he gave.

Watched another Inside the Episodes: The Witcher. This one took a look at episode six where everything goes to hell for Geralt. Very cool to get some insight into how and why things happened the way they did.

Caught another London Live. This one featured Kelly Clarkson and I enjoyed the songs chosen. Still like Berlin Live better.

Enjoyed an episode of Star Trek: Discovery. Mudd returned and the repeating of the thirty minutes entertained me. Loved how many characters ended up being out of their comfort zone even if Burnham was the main focal point.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med. This one kind of gutted me and I loved it. So glad I'm finally getting to see all of this show. I've said that before, right?

Started the next season of Midsommer Murders. I've kind of been putting it off because it's only two episodes with a few more starting this month, I think. Loved the first episode. I've missed Winter's facial expressions so much.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from A Simple Thing, a novella where things get a little complicated for my main characters after an accidental naked viewing.

Here's the mini-blurb:

River Cyd loses a bet and has to have a lip lock with Gus Berkeley. No big deal—they've shared them before. But the simple kiss goes from zero to smokin' in less than a second flat and River isn't quite sure when complicated became the norm between her and Gus.

And a snippety peek…

River dreamed about Gus three nights in a row. Gah. She wished she hadn't seen him naked.

Getting ready to crawl into bed, she pulled the sheets back. "Not like I haven't fantasized about him before…" But now her imaginings were practically X-rated. "So not good when I work with him almost every day."

And Kat didn't help. She always had sex on her mind and didn't hold back when sharing details of her escapades. River got a terrific education and a whole list of stuff she wanted to try someday.

But River rarely participated in the kiss and tell sessions. She liked to keep her intimate details under wraps. If only because she didn't have any to speak of recently.

Unlike Gus, who often had women waiting after the bar closed to become his latest overnight guests. Gus flirted with everyone—something River loved and loathed in equal measure. She enjoyed Gus's suggestive banter even if she had to remember the reminder he didn't mix personal with professional. He had a strict no-employee hookup rule.

She got it. He'd had an employee, Gloria Allward, try to sue for harassment. The case went nowhere—Gus kept good records and video footage—and he gave Gloria the straight scoop before they even got started. He didn't want a long-term relationship at the time.

River shook her head. "But Gloria definitely thought she deserved a change in status." And she didn't appreciate learning she wouldn't get any favoritism.

River slid between the sheets. "No wonder Gus steers clear of romance at work now."

Probably a good idea and River respected the reasons. But, damn, her brain sure didn't get the message. Not when she had a vivid Technicolor image taking up residence in her brain.

Her hand snaked down her stomach and dipped under her panties. "Can't hurt to use my overactive imagination to self-pleasure, right?"

Maybe she'd quit dreaming about Gus if she enacted her fantasy for a little solo fun…

This story is fun to write. I love changing dynamics and light bulb moments with characters.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: A Simple Thing

It's been a crazy week. Our county had severe flash flooding in the far eastern end and many of the people affected are still trying to dry out. Then there was a terrible barn fire that took three teenagers, most a little younger than my daughter. And to top it off, a beloved coach and teacher lost his battle with cancer. So… yeah. Rough and crazy week. Also… it can quit raining whenever it wants to.

A little light on television fare, but I did get some shows watched. Caught an episode of Durham County and, honestly, it's insane how dark this show goes. Not in a bad way either. But it's super-twisted and seriously messy. I can't wait to see how Ray Prager, Sr. tries to keep the upper hand he gained this week. I also can't wait to see him go down really hard. Please make that happen.

Midsomer Murders had a great episode featuring astronomy. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and figuring out the why and how.

Watched two more episodes each of Peter Gunn and Classic Who. I'm nearing the end of the first doctor's tenure and should be starting Two's in the near future.

Caught another episode of Painkiller Jane and enjoyed it. I like the episode the first time around because it opened up some questions about whether all neuros really needed to be chipped. I think this show was a little ahead of its time.

Blade had a decent episode where Krista needed to detox and Blade had to find a serial killer vampire. Not a bad hour's worth or so of entertainment.

Started another episode of Blue Heelers. I'm still enjoying this Aussie drama.

Watched another episode of Banshee. It took me three days to get through the entire episode due to several interruptions and a number of work deadlines. But I loved this one from the original watch and didn't want to miss anything.

Caught Chicago Fire penultimate episode of season seven. Excellent showing. I kind of love where all the characters are right now… which means they'll all be upended in the finale. LOL

Started Daredevil's third episode of season three. I'm really liking this final season. I'm so disappointed with all the consolidation and shifting of assets and how it affects terrific television. I'm not a huge Disney fan because they keep snapping everything up.

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

Here's the mini-blurb:

River Cyd loses a bet and has to have a lip lock with Gus Berkeley. No big deal—they've shared them before. But the simple kiss goes from zero to smokin' in less than a second flat and River isn't quite sure when complicated became the norm between her and Gus.

And a snippety peek…

Gus huffed out a breath and willed his dick to stay down. "Hell of a way to start my m morning." The blatant interest in River's gaze almost woke his spent cock up again. "Good thing I took care of my morning wood in the shower." He whipped the towel off and strolled to his bedroom, grabbing a pair of jeans. "Damn good thing I didn't have company." He shoved his legs into the denim and snagged a t-shirt from the back of the chair.

He'd been known to bring a patron or two up to his apartment after closing. Usually didn't have them stick around after the sex but, occasionally, the sheets didn't stop tangling until just before he officially started at one. If that happened, the female companion might get a second look, but he rarely offered a second night. Didn't make him relationship material but he didn't bring women to his apartment for a lifetime commitment.

Heading for the door, he shook his head. "She did get a good eyeful though." Too bad he steered clear of hooking up with his help.

Burn me once, shame on you. Burn me twice… well, I'm not that stupid.

Then again… River… man. She fit the epitome of his perfect woman. Not that he'd ever tell her that. Smoky, dark beauty with raven hair and silvery eyes. Guh.

He twisted the doorknob harder than necessary and flung the door open. "Nope. Not gonna happen." Even if he might be willing to make an exception to his no work hanky-panky rule.

He didn't want to lose her as an employee… not until he had to. She handled herself well—flirty without making it a come-on. She did great with male and female customers. And she worked her ass off, going the extra mile when needed.

Like this morning. He'd give his left ball sack to have more employees like her.

And would probably need two to replace her when she finished her master's degree. She only had a semester or two left. No doubt she'd heed the call of a "real" job when she completed her studies.

He met Joe at the bottom of the steps and signed off on the beer delivery.

Joe tucked the board under his arm. "You know if River's got a boyfriend or dating anyone right now?"

Gus shot him a sharp look and tamped a twinge of jealousy down nice and tight. "Not that I know of. She's knee-deep in her studies right now and works a ton of hours here." Gus didn't like the idea of his help hooking up with the delivery people.

That's all it is, right?

Yeah… a headache waiting to happen. If things went south, he might have a problem getting the alcohol he needed when he needed it. That's all. Nothing more.

He spent a few more moments catching up with Joe and asking him to congratulate Stan and his wife on their new arrival. Gus entered the bar to find River unloading the crates and stocking the bar with the craft beer. He didn't even have to ask… she just carried out the task because it needed doing.

He stepped in to help. "You didn't have to do this, but I appreciate it." He emptied the last case and she put the bottles into the cooler.

River shrugged. "Might as well get them chilled now. These sell out quick." She paused in her task. "I'm really sorry for barging into your apartment this morning." Her face turned a nice shade of pink.

Gus chuckled. "It's really not a problem. I should probably start making sure I'm dressed before I leave the bathroom. Especially since I live so close to the bar." Remembering the interest in her gaze, a change of subject might be a good idea. "Joe asked about you… if you're dating anyone." He quirked an eyebrow.

River waved a hand between them. "Joe's not my type." She finished stocking the cooler and slid the door closed.

A kick of something dark and dangerous hit him. "Not your type? Is he too blue-collar for you?" Stupid question and none of his business.

So why ask, shithead?

River frowned. "Uh, no. I don't care what he does for a living." She pinned Gus with a point-blank stare. "He's too married for me. I don't do the other woman thing." With that, she picked up a towel and started wiping the already sparkling bar.

Gus held up his hands. "You know what? I'm an asshole. A rude one." He took the rag and nodded for her to sit on one of the stools. "I'm sorry for being a dick. Let's start over here." He tossed the rag onto the back bar and settled beside her. "What are your plans after you finish up your degree?"

River rolled a shoulder. "I'm not completely sure yet. I've got a job lined up at the VA but I've also got student loans out the ass." She met his gaze. "I'm hoping I can keep working at the GoGo, if you don't mind me cutting back to part-time."

Gus ignored the relief sweeping through him. "I'm very okay with that." His lips quirked and he shared a smile with River.

Kat Thorp, another employee, walked into the bar from the kitchen. "Geez, get a room, guys. Or go somewhere else to do your eye-fucking." She moved behind the counter and tied an apron on.

River blinked then laughed. "Kat! I can't believe you said that."

Gus believed it. Kat dumped her most recent boy toy almost a week ago. She'd be jonesing for a fix right about now.

Gus slid off the stool. "Kat… I suggest you find someone hard and hot tonight… or don't come back until you do." He added a flash of a smile to indicate his lack of seriousness.

Kat winced. "Yeah, yeah. I'm sorry. Be as cozy as you want. I'll get back in fine form soon… just watch me."

Gus gave her a one-armed hug. "We'll be rooting for you." He shot River a quick look. "Thanks, again. I've got two errands to run. Can you two get the bar opened if I don't make it back by one?"

Both women nodded and he left the GoGo in good hands.

I'm having a lot of fun with this story. River and Gus are chatty characters and have definitive ideas of what they want, which makes my job a joy.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: A Simple Thing

Okay, Riverdale, you have my attention. My high hopes were met and surpassed. Here's hoping the following episodes stay the course. My sister blog, Universes Altered, might pick up a weekly recap on this show. The acting and cast are a terrific mix and I look forward to seeing what this crew does.

Gotham's follow-up episode intrigued me. I'll lay money Leigh made a deal to stay away from Jim to spare his life. We'll see how long that lasts. Having Jerome loose in the city will be chaotic to say the least. If the origin story I think is playing out continues, I'm in. I also love the other two prongs of the cold war between Ed and Oswald along with the mama drama between Selena and Bruce. Thoroughly love how the trio of plot threads are playing out.

The Flash returned and didn't disappoint. Future vibing is kind of cool, but something tells me the crew is going to have burnt asses before it's all over.

Legends of Tomorrow always makes me happy when they visit someone famous before they're, well, famous. Having George Lucas kind of made the show. While I rather enjoyed Malcolm and Damien's team-up, I'm not sure how much fun it'll be if it's overused. I don't, however, think Mick and Stein sharing screen time will ever get old. More of that, please.

Arrow rocked, as usual. I have some doubts about the district attorney really helping Oliver, but we'll see what happens. Having Earth 2 Laurel is an interesting twist. Looking forward to seeing what happens there. Loved the bonding moment between Curtis and Rene, too.

Finished up Strike Back through season three. Holding off on four, but should start it soon. Got caught up on The Librarians, Murdoch Mysteries, and Teen Wolf. I'm thrilled to be current on all three. Whew. Missed the premiere of The Magicians and hope to catch up on that one soon.

Decided to forego watching MacGyver for now. I might binge watch after the season is over. The show just isn't holding my attention like I want it to and the cast shake-ups aren't something I'm thrilled with.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from A Simple Thing, a novella that got a start from a writing community prompt of making one character lose a bet and having to plant a kiss on another in front of an audience then things get out of hand. I really liked this prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

River Cyd loses a bet and has to have a lip lock with Gus Berkeley. No big deal—they've shared them before. But the simple kiss goes from zero to smokin' in less than a second flat and River isn't quite sure when complicated became the norm between her and Gus.

Here's a snippety peek…

River Cyd wiped down the bar at GoGo's while reviewing her notes for her final exam. Her master's degree within reach, she'd doubled up on her study sessions.  The buzzer sounded by the back door and she frowned. Deliveries weren't scheduled until after one and she'd come in at eleven… fifteen minutes ago.

Tossing the rag in the sink, she made her way to the rear exit and checked the monitor. The craft beer delivery man stood outside, hands jammed in his pockets and his toe tapping the ground.

River keyed the code and opened the door. "Hey, Joe. What's up?" She propped the steel door with the block of wood.

Joe gave her a harried smile. "Boss's wife is in labor and he's closing up shop early. Asked if I could make my deliveries and get back ASAP." He walked around to the front of the truck and grabbed a clipboard from the seat. "If you can sign for the twenty cases, I'll go ahead and start getting them into the bar."

River held up a hand. "Hold up. You need Gus's signature and he's not down here yet." She glanced inside the vehicle, noting the almost empty rear interior. "Are we your last stop?" Her gaze swept over a photo, taped to the sliding door, showing a woman and two dark-haired kids.

Joe nodded. "Yeah. I saved you guys for last." He leaned against the truck, the clipboard tucked under his arm. "You sure you can't sign for the beer? I won't tell my boss if you don't." His lips curved in a lopsided grin.

River shook her head. "No way, Joe. Gus'll have my hide." She tilted her head to one side. "I'll tell you what. Let me run up and see if he's home. Maybe he can come down, sign for the beer, and let you get going." She crossed the alley and dashed up the steps to Gus's apartment.

Joe gave her a thumbs-up. "Thanks, River. Appreciate it."

She waved and knocked on the door. Glancing through the window, she snorted. Gus wouldn't win any housekeeping awards. Clothes were flung everywhere, dirty dishes stacked in the sink, and office paraphernalia littered the table. She banged again and still didn't get a response.

She looked over the railing. His motorcycle sat parked in its usual spot, so he should be home.

River tried the knob. It twisted and she pushed the door open, sticking her head inside. "Gus? You home?" Running water greeted her ears.

Stepping inside, she tried again. "Hey, Gus? You around?" The shower shut off and River opened her mouth to say his name again but the words died in her throat.

Gus strolled from the bathroom toward his bedroom, gloriously naked up to his head, which he had covered with a towel, sopping up the water that clung to the ends of his hair. River gasped and Gus spun around, giving her a full frontal view.

Good God.

The man should pose nude for the sake of posterity. River drank in the sight—broad shoulders with some ink on the left, defined pecs, ripped abs, and—holy heaven above—an impressive cock. Even soft, it had length and girth.

Her gave flew upward, glancing off his and River worked to form words. But her brain got stuck between "I want" and "Gimme". Her fingers curled into her palms to keep from making grabby hands.

This one is fun. River and Gus get hot and heavy without really thinking through the consequences.

That's it for this week. Happy reading.

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: A Simple Thing

Hi!

Okay, I can't discuss Strike Back just yet, but I will say I love shows where NOBODY is safe. Speaking of no one being safe, Sons of Anarchy returns Tuesday and I'm ready to start marking the death toll. LOL

Now for something a little less morbid. J Tonight's post is from A Simple Thing, where a single kiss shouldn't be a big deal. But it is.

Here's the tagline:

River Cyd loses a bet and has to have a lip lock with Gus Berkeley. No big deal—they've shared them before. But the simple kiss goes from zero to smokin' in less than a second flat and River isn't quite sure when complicated became the norm between her and Gus.

And a snippety peek…

River stood frozen and uncertain. It should have been a simple thing. She lost a bet and had to kiss Gus. Not like she'd never done that before—with and without an audience.

So why did the thought freak her out? She completely discounted the fact she'd seen him in the shower last week and dreamed of him every night since. It had to be because Gus stood apart from everyone, over by the table beside the exit. He heard the bet. He couldn't have not heard it. Yet he didn't try to leave. Nope. He remained standing, fiddling with the coffee carafe, going nowhere.

She couldn't back down. Losing the bet—who knew Kat could actually pull off the tying a cherry stem into a knot with her tongue thing? River had to make good on her promise and have a lip-lock with Gus.

She exhaled slowly and nodded towards her audience. She walked over, figuring she'd give Gus a quick peck on the lips.

Grasping his arm, she gave it a squeeze. "Sorry, I hope you don't mind being a good sport." She tilted her chin and her plan for quick and easy went to hell.

The brief movement of her mouth over his didn't play out that way. She brushed her lips over his and wanted more. Meshing her mouth with his, her tongue slid past his lips, not what she'd planned, but oh… damn… it felt so good.

And he responded, exploring slowly, in no hurry for the embrace to end. It needed to stop, but her hands traveled upward, cupping his face, hauling him closer. The kiss deepened and she leaned into him, molding her body to his. She got completely lost in the moment… moments… minutes.

She didn't know how long they stood there, but one kiss slid into another, and another. Everything faded—the room full of people, the catcalls and whistles, nothing existed but her, and Gus, and a powerful need to see what else might happen.

When her hand slid down to his ass, he eased away, breaking contact.

His forehead rested against hers. "I'd be very willing to continue, but not in front of an audience." He spoke quietly so only she could hear.

River's face flamed hot, but not from embarrassment. The idea of acting out some of her recent dreams about him made her wet with anticipation. She wanted Gus and sort of didn't care, at the moment, about the fact they worked together. Hook-ups between co-workers didn't always end well, but the desire to see what happened outweighed her concern.

She leaned back to meet his gaze. "Wanna get out of here?" Her head jerked toward the still rowdy group. "They're not gonna miss us."

A slow, wide smile spread over Gus's face. "Upstairs? My place?" He turned and wrapped an arm around her waist. "It's close, convenient, and actually clean, for once." He directed her through the open doorway and around the side of the bar to the back steps.

River leaned into his warmth and nodded. "Yeah, upstairs is good." She glanced upward and the raw desire in his eyes made her hot with need. "Stop looking at me like that or we won't make it up the stairs."

Gus chuckled. "It's not my fault—you started it with that kiss."

River grinned and started up the first step. "Who knew, right?" She paused and angled her head around. "You're sure, yeah? I can leave now—no harm done."

Gus brushed past her. "Oh, I'm sure." He grabbed her hand, tugging her up behind him. "You and me? Are definitely finishing what we started."

He quickly unlocked the door and hurried her inside. Grasping her hips, he turned her, lowering his head to meet her mouth. His booted foot kicked the door shut and closed out everything but them and the rapidly building need arcing between them.

Gus broke the kiss and nodded toward the hallway. "Bedroom's that way." He grabbed her hand and led her in the direction.

River held back a shudder. She had a feeling Gus might just rock her world down to the foundation.

She couldn't wait to find out.

Heh, heh. And find out she does. Let's just leave it there, okay?

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin