Sunday Snippet: Oceanfront Villa

I hope everyone who celebrates US Thanksgiving had a lovely holiday. Mine was low-key, which is how I enjoy the holiday the most. As usual, my husband cooked for ninety-seven people instead of the three that were here, but that means leftovers and readily available meals for a few days!

Kind of a light week for work projects in varying stages. I ended up getting a decent amount of writing completed. I finished up two manuscript drafts and I'm in the fine-tuning stage for those. I'm excited to start revising! I also did some additional planning for the other ventures I'm trying to launch soon. Should be an exciting December!

Had a great week of television viewing. I got an extra show in this go around but still didn't get to pick back up with my Battlestar Galactica rewatch. Hopefully this week.

I ended up watching two episodes of Silent Witness. I'm sad that Clarissa is leaving but look forward to new faces. Can't wait to pick up with the second half of the current two-parter. It ended on a cliffhanger.

Also got two episodes of Death in Paradise in this week. Started season four, which I'm enjoying. Humph is a lot of fun and Dwayne has been very entertaining so far.

Ended up watching two episodes of Only Murders in the Building also. Finished the penultimate episode last night and, wow, I love this show. And … I'm pretty sure I guessed correctly with a slight twist on the murderer. Can't wait to watch the final episode.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Batman. One I remembered and the other one I didn't so really enjoyed that one. Not sure how many episodes are left in the first season but looking forward to more.

Caught two more episodes of Classic Rugrats. I did remember both. An interesting bit was the theme changed for one episode then went back to the original. Weird what I notice when I'm streaming shows.

Watched another episode of VIP. The over-the-top storylines are so much fun. I really miss some of the shows from the late nineties and early aughts.

Enjoyed a behind-the-scenes episode of My Life Is Murder. I'll be starting season two this week, unless there's another bonus episode.

Also watched a behind-the-scenes episode of Agatha Raisin. A lot of fun to see and hear the actors talk about their characters. There might be one more BTS for season two then I'll be moving on to season three.

Picked back up with Peak Practice. I skipped ahead a little because I honestly don't care about Andrew and Kate's torrid relationship. Might try to work another episode in this week.

That's pretty much it for this week's life update. Tonight's post is from Oceanfront Villa, a novella that explores a couple trying to rekindle their relationship.

Here's the miniblurb:

Danielle Finch is a hardworking doctor who rarely takes time off and her relationship with Vince Darkholme, an in-demand attorney, suffers for the lack of face time. When Vince's client offers the use of his oceanfront villa, Danielle readily agrees to take two weeks to rekindle the passion she sorely misses with Vince.

And a snippety peek…

David Canneli's driver dropped Vince at the rear entrance to the loft he shared with Danielle.

Vince got home later than planned. "Canneli has no idea how close I came to ditching him after the first course." He entered the lower level of the unit. "But I'm glad I didn't."

Canneli had been so happy Vince found a mistake in a major contract, which saved him upward of two million dollars. David had offered Vince the use of his oceanfront home and Vince jumped at the chance, accepted with gratitude, and stayed for the full meal, round of dessert, and drinks afterward.

But now, with the time nearing midnight, he wanted to turn back the clock so he could spend the evening with his wife. Taking the stairs, he went over the varied list of pros and cons to taking a much-needed vacation. First and foremost, he wanted to reconnect with his woman. They had sex, but not as often. Typical relationship gripe after a decade of marriage. And maybe sex didn't seem like a chore, but it lacked passion, too. He missed the spark and static they used to have.

Pausing outside the door, he heaved a sigh. "She's probably asleep by now." And why not?

She'd put in full day. Even if she'd left earlier than normal, he'd seen her patient schedule before. And this had been a grueling week for her.

He entered the loft, surprised to find the lights still on. "Maybe she's still awake." Taking that as a good sign, he made his way through the mudroom area, the kitchen, and finally ended up in the living room. He found Danielle curled up on the couch, an open book and an empty wine glass on the ottoman.

His lips curved. How many times had he come home from his study group to find her in this same position after a thirty-six hour shift during her residency? Back then, he used to kiss her awake then join her on the sofa or haul her to the bedroom for a hot round of passionate sex.

He wanted those kinds of moments back.

Kneeling down, he cupped her face. "Hey, beautiful, I'm home." His thumb stroked over her cheek.

Dani's eyes blinked open and focused on him. "Hi…" She started to sit up and winced. "Ugh. Fell asleep, didn't I?" She straightened and twisted her head from side to side. "What time is it? Did the dinner go well?" She scooted over, making room for him to sit beside her.

He settled on the couch and drew her legs over his lap. "It did, but it ran late. It's just after midnight." His fingers squeezed her feet, massaging and kneading.

Danielle made a low hum of satisfaction. "Kind of figured it would when ten p.m. rolled around." Her lips curved and her tone lacked heat.

Vince arched an eyebrow. "Were you waiting up? I'm sorry if you were." He moved on to her arches, working his thumbs along her skin the way she liked.

Danielle waved off the apology. "It's okay. I got sucked into a book and didn't feel like moving." She paused a moment. "I do have something I'd like to talk about, but it can wait if you're too tired tonight."

Vince's heart dropped and he looked for a sign he'd missed something. But she didn't appear angry or upset. Still … he'd better share his news while he could.

Giving her a nod, he moved up to her calves. "I'm not too tired. I've got something to share also. Do you mind if I go first?"

This story is kind of meandering along but I'm pretty happy with the flow.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Oceanfront Villa

Not a bad week overall. I had time to get some solid organizing completed and I'm happy to make progress on that project. Also got in a good bit of writing, which always makes me happy.

Pretty good week for television viewing. I caught another episode of Picard and, wow, I didn't see one of the deaths coming. Nice to catch up with old friends.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med. It's good to fill in some blanks from previous seasons of the other Chicago shows.

Got another episode of No Offence viewed and, seriously, thoroughly enjoyed it. Viv, Dinah, and Joy are terrific characters.

Started another two-part Silent Witness. This ended being an interesting episode. I'm looking forward to watching the second part.

Caught another arc of Classic Who. I gotta be honest, this season Four is kind of annoying me. He's not quite as fun as the previous seasons.

Watched another episode of UFOs: The Lost Evidence. This one focused on past and present possible visitations. Interesting stuff.

Got two more episodes of The Muppet Show. I'd completely forgotten they let one of the old guys backstage for a while. He's not nearly as fun when he's not with his partner.

Caught an episode of Peak Practice and it had a lot going on but ended up being really good. I'm thinking there will be a sad good-bye in the near future.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers. I'm hoping to get a little more about Rose. I'm still trying to make a connection with that character.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Oceanfront Villa, a novella that has my main characters realizing they need some downtime.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Danielle Finch is a hardworking doctor who rarely takes time off and her relationship with Vince Darkholme, an in demand attorney, suffers for the lack of face time. When Vince's client offers the use of his oceanfront villa, Danielle readily agrees to take two weeks to rekindle the passion she sorely misses with Vince.

And a snippety peek…

David Canneli's driver dropped Vince at the rear entrance to the loft he shared with Danielle.

Vince got home later than planned. "Canneli has no idea how close I came to ditching him after the first course." He entered the lower level of the loft he shared with Danielle. "But I'm glad I didn't."

Canneli had been so happy Vince found a mistake in a major contract, which saved him upward of two million dollars. David had offered Vince the use of his oceanfront home and Vince jumped at the chance, accepted with gratitude, and stayed for the full meal, round of dessert, and drinks afterward.

But now, with the time nearing midnight, he wanted to turn back the clock so he could spend the evening with his wife. Taking the stairs, he went over the varied list of pros and cons to taking a much-needed vacation. First and foremost, he wanted to reconnect with his woman. They had sex, but not as often. Typical relationship gripe after a decade of marriage. And maybe sex didn't seem like a chore, but it lacked passion, too. He missed the spark and static they used to have.

Pausing outside the door, he heaved a sigh. "She's probably asleep by now." And why not?

She'd put in full day. Even if she'd left earlier than normal, he'd seen her patient schedule before. And this had been a grueling week for her.

He entered the loft, surprised to find the lights still on. "Maybe she's still awake." Taking that as a good sign, he made his way through the mudroom area, the kitchen, and finally ended up in the living room. He found Danielle curled up on the couch, an open book and an empty wine glass on the ottoman.

His lips curved. How many times had he come home from his study group to find her in this same position after a thirty-six hour shift during her residency? Back then, he used to kiss her awake then join her on the sofa or haul her to the bedroom for a hot round of passionate sex.

He wanted those kinds of moments back.

Kneeling down, he cupped her face. "Hey, beautiful, I'm home." His thumb stroked over her cheek.

Dani's eyes blinked open and focused on him. "Hi…" She started to sit up and winced. "Ugh. Fell asleep, didn't I?" She straightened and twisted her head from side to side. "What time is it? Did the dinner go well?" She scooted over, making room for him to sit beside her.

He settled on the couch and drew her legs over his lap. "It did, but it ran late. It's just after midnight." His fingers squeezed her feet, massaging and kneading.

Danielle made a low hum of satisfaction. "Kind of figured it would when ten p.m. rolled around." Her lips curved and her tone lacked heat.

Vince arched an eyebrow. "Were you waiting up? I'm sorry if you were." He moved on to her arches, working his thumbs along her skin the way she liked.

Danielle waved off the apology. "It's okay. I got sucked into a book and didn't feel like moving." She paused a moment. "I do have something I'd like to talk about, but it can wait if you're too tired tonight."

Vince's heart dropped and he looked for a sign he'd missed something. But she didn't appear angry or upset. Still … he'd better share his news while he could.

Giving her a nod, he moved up to her calves. "I'm not too tired. I've got something to share also. Do you mind if I go first?"

I like this story. It's fun to write a couple that is deeply in love but comes close to losing sight of just how much they care.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Oceanfront Villa

Happy early holidays. I hope everyone has a wonderful season full of love, laughter, and fun. If not, I hope the trauma is limited and as painless as possible.

The past week flew by with a lot of crazy running around. I did manage to get a ton of work cleared and got in some television viewing while doing so. Caught another episode of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. Seriously, I love this show so much. I think I'm about halfway through the season. Also caught another episode of Strike Back and, damn, the CO pulled a twisty move I didn't anticipate. Gotta say, I'm kind of pissed and sincerely hope she gets what's coming to her. Can't wait to watch the next episode and see some familiar faces.

Caught an episode of Chicago Fire and thoroughly enjoyed. I like Christopher as the new lieutenant and it was so nice to have the weasel-like commissioner dude not around. I'm not down with that plot point at all. Caught episode nine of Luke Cage and loved the little twists. Glad to see Bushwhacker get his ass handed to him for once.

Watched Mr. 365, a Passionflix original holiday movie. I liked it a lot. Looking forward to the holiday quickie, which I might not get to until after the actual holiday. LOL

Murdoch Mysteries's sixth episode will need a rewatch. I'm not actually sure what the hell happened. LOL

I'm finished with the first season of Penny Dreadful. The last episode ended up having quite a few surprises. Good ones. I'm ready for season two. Also caught an episode of Wynonna Earp. This show never fails to throw in a crazy twist and get really messy. I like that.

Watched episode twelve of The Dresden Files and remembered this one from my original viewing. I liked having Murphy's dad in the mix. Also started episode two of Underbelly: Razor. I'll try to finish it up soon.

Watched another episode of Classic Who and finally finished the fifth episode of Doctor Who. It ended up being better than expected.

And that's pretty much it for television this week. Between work and getting the final shopping stuff done, I ran out of steam.

Tonight's post is from Oceanfront Villa, a novella that started with a writing community prompt of "vacationing together". I decided to make it a reconnect-type of vacation.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Danielle Finch is a hardworking doctor who rarely takes time off and her relationship with Vince Darkholme, an in-demand attorney, suffers for the lack of face time. When Vince's client offers the use of his oceanfront villa, Danielle readily agrees to take two weeks to rekindle the passion she sorely misses with Vince.

And a snippety peek…

Danielle heaved a sigh and picked up her handset. "Gigi, do I have any more patients today?" Her tablet indicated she'd finished with the last one.

Since Monica Rense's visit, she'd had a full week of nonstop craziness. Missing Sunday brunch at Risa's sent her spiraling into stress mode. She'd wanted to spend the time with Vince.

Gigi only took a moment to respond. "No, Doctor Finch. We're done with visits. Just have the labs to send out and I can handle those after you sign off." She sent the orders to Danielle's tablet.

She clicked the first file to open it. "I've got them. Thanks." She paused a moment, making a quick decision. "Gigi, start going light on the schedule and be ready to juggle a few appointments. I'm going to see if Doctor Morales can cover for me for a few weeks." If nothing else, some downtime would let her recharge a little and maybe have dinner with her husband a few nights.

Gigi's used a concerned tone. "Is everything all right, Doctor Finch?"

Danielle's lips curved. "Honestly? I'm running close to burning out. I haven't taken a vacation in almost two years. I think it's time to disconnect and regroup. Maybe look at bringing a partner on now that the practice is established." Someone to share the ups and downs with.

Gigi got excited. "Yes! It's about time if you don't mind me saying so." Her fingers clicked on her keyboard. "I'll get to work on the schedule and you should remind Doctor Morales that not only did you cover for her when her daughter went into labor, you also took her patient load over the holidays last year."

Danielle had forgotten about that. "Huh, you're right. I'm pretty sure Dana won't mind then." If she did, well, Danielle could always find someone else.

A make a note to not cover for Doctor Morales anymore.

Danielle started on the lab orders. "I'll get through these files and then I'm logging out for the day and heading home." Early enough to stop by Vince's office to see if he wanted to get dinner.

Gigi hung up and Danielle quickly worked through the files. She logged out of the system and gathered her purse and attaché. Heading down to the parking garage, she sent a quick text to Vince. "Leaving work. Do you want to meet for dinner?"

Vince responded. "Hey, Dani. I'm just headed out to Leonard's Bistro with Dave Canneli. We've got a six o'clock reservation. Should be home before nine."

Dave Canneli. One of Vince's top clients. Meaning she couldn't invite herself along.

Danielle typed out a quick reply. "Okay, I'll stop and get some takeout. Love you." She bit back disappointment.

Vince shot a quick response. "Love you, too."

She vaguely remembered Vince mentioning he had a working dinner. She hadn't realized he meant tonight. Sliding behind the wheel of her vehicle, she started the engine and pulled out of the lot.

Looks like it's soup and salad from The Market Basket and a long, leisurely soak in the tub for me.

At least Vince wouldn't be late. She'd have a chance to talk about their day and let him know about the time off she planned.

I'm kind of excited about this story. I'm not completely sure where it's going and I love the process of discovery along the way.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Oceanfront Villa

Wish I had commentary about The Last Ship. Looking forward to the new episode tonight. Where's Rachel when we need her to figure out the science? I'm actually wondering if her former flame has something to do with the green mist stuff. Can't wait to find out who's behind that.

Killjoys continues to intrigue me. I'm so excited to see where this season ends up. I love how the various factions all seem to have pieces to a puzzle but no one knows what the puzzle looks like yet.

Dark Matter had a terrific episode. Great to see Five get some screen time to remind us of her mad skills. Three and Four make a fun team. I'm interested in finding out what else is going on behind the scenes.

Babylon 5 has two episodes left in season two… I think. Can't remember if they did a standard twenty-two episode season or not. I'd forgotten how much of an impact Talia's betrayal had, even if she had no idea what happened.

No Strike Back this week. Had way too much other drama going on to be able to watch. *sigh* Maybe I'll get to it this week.

That's the TV update for this week. Tonight's post is from Oceanfront Villa, a novella started with the prompt of characters vacationing together.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Danielle Finch is a hardworking doctor who rarely takes time off and her relationship with Vince Darkholme, an in demand attorney, suffers for the lack of face time. When Vince's client offers the use of his oceanfront villa, Danielle readily agrees to take two weeks to rekindle the passion she sorely misses with Vince.

And a snippety peek…

Danielle's cultured voice confirmed her schedule with her office then went on to discuss setting an appointment for one of her patients. The one whose test results Danielle needed to personally receive.

Vince frowned. Why hadn't she said anything about the trouble with the lab? Usually she kept him in the loop, especially when she had frustrating things happen.

When have you been home to listen?

He hadn't been lately. At least not before Danielle had gone to bed for the night. He slid his gaze sideways and blinked. She had vivid burgundy streaks woven throughout her raven-colored hair and the ends were tinged with silver. The combination should have looked edgy and maybe harsh, but it gave Danielle a fun, modern vibe.

How had he missed a striking change? What an ass. If he said anything now, he'd be a total dick.

Making the turn into the parking lot of her office suite, he pulled into her space. "Dani, we're here."

She glanced up and laughed. "I'm right outside. See you in a few." She clicked off the call then turned to face him. "Thanks for the ride. Home for dinner, tonight?" Gathering her bag and attaché, she popped the door open.

He had a late meeting on tap, but cancelling sounded damn good right now.

Reaching out, he grabbed her shoulder. "Yeah. Want me to bring something home?" Maybe he'd get spice beef noodles from their favorite Asian restaurant.

Danielle sent him a harried glance. "Sure, whatever you want." She leaned in and pressed a quick kiss to his lips. "I've gotta go. Expecting those test results." Scurrying out of the car, she made a waggled finger wave and dashed into the office.

Vince sat behind the wheel, gazing at nothing. "We're distracted and unconnected. When did Danielle and I stop communicating?" The idea didn't sit well.

Putting the car in reverse, he backed out and drove on autopilot to his firm. Taking the elevator up to his floor, he couldn't tamp down the tension creeping along his spine. What else had he missed with Danielle?

Maybe he should find out over dinner tonight.

I'm enjoying this one. Writing the disconnect between the characters is an interesting endeavor. Looking forward to seeing how they work their way back to each other.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Oceanfront Villa

Hello!

So… Orphan Black? Who doesn't love this show? Seriously, it's so mind-bendy and twisty. Watching Tatiana play one clone as another never fails to blow my mind. This week having Sarah act as Rachel and Alison play Sarah… well… just so damned amazing. And Delphine? The woman kicks ass. That's all I'll say. LOL

I'm dying to get to know the Castor clones and then see if the boys can play as crazy as the girls. Saturday won't get here fast enough.

Arrow and The Flash continue to make me happy. Agents of SHIELD, too. Melinda May backstory? Yes, please. Maybe we'll get some Grant Ward flashback action in the future. Wouldn't mind seeing more of what made him so batshit crazy.

If you're not catching Bitten and Lost Girl on Syfy, you need to. Excellent shows!

Made it through the first season of Teen Wolf and gotta say, I cheered out loud when one of the characters bit the dust. Actually, two, but I have a feeling dead doesn't mean forever on this show. LOL. All in all, totally enjoying season two.

Will be starting Daredevil on Netflix in the near future. I hope.

That's it for TV related news. Tonight's post is from Oceanfront Villa, a novella reconnecting my main characters after they've drifted apart.

Here's the tagline:

Danielle Finch is a hardworking doctor who rarely takes time off and her relationship with Vince Darkholme, an in demand attorney, suffers for the lack of face time. When Vince's client offers the use of his oceanfront villa, Danielle readily agrees to take two weeks to rekindle the passion she sorely misses with Vince.

And a snippety peek…

Danielle Finch balanced her phone between her chin and shoulder. "I want those results by the time I get to the office. I'm not making Monica Rense wait any longer." She glanced up when her husband walked into their bedroom.

Vince Darkholme still had the power to take her breath away. But… she tilted her head and almost dropped the phone when he mouthed the words 'how long'. When had he let his hair grow out? The normally short, cropped cut had disappeared, his hair reaching the collar of his shirt and a curl of bangs barely touched his eyebrow, now quirked, waiting on her answer.

She blinked and flashed five fingers. He gave her a quick smile and nodded.

The voice on the other end of the phone cut through her thoughts. "Dr. Finch? I said I can courier over Ms. Rense's results. Will that work for you?"

Danielle responded with a brisk affirmative. "Yes. And it's not about me, it's about a woman who's been more than patient during two lab screw-ups." She gathered her bag and attaché case, stuffing her office keys into the side pouch. "I know it's not your fault the first culture became contaminated, but she's been through a difficult trauma. I think you understand, right?"

The lab director agreed. "Yes, Dr. Finch. I'll personally make sure the courier leaves within the next five minutes."

Danielle thanked the gentleman and ended the call. Shoving her hair off her face, she grabbed her coat and exited the bedroom. Vince waited in the hall, car keys in his hand.

She gave him a slow once over, wondering if she'd missed anything else. "You won't be late for court, will you? I can drive." She opened another pocket on her purse and fished around for her car keys.

Vince laid a hand on hers. "I have client meetings this morning, so we're good." His fingers laced with hers. "I'd love to drop you off at the medical building. Maybe we can stop for coffee on the way in?"

She calculated the time and winced. "I'd love to, but I'm expecting some important test results and I'd like to be there when they arrive." Dammit. They never got to enjoy coffee together anymore.

Vince shrugged and opened the door to the garage. "No problem. We'll try to go Sunday morning." He got her door then dashed around to the driver's side. "Unless you have rounds?"

She sighed. "I'm not supposed to, but Dana Morales asked me to be on standby in case her daughter goes into labor." She slid into the passenger seat. "Can we make a tentative date?"

Vince frowned, but lifted a shoulder. "Sure. If you don't a call, we'll have brunch at Risa's." He started the engine. "How's that sound?"

Risa's. God, she loved the place.

Danielle smiled. "Sounds terrific." Her phone chirped and she glanced at the caller ID.

Her office. She answered and settled into a quick rundown with her office manager while Vince drove into the city.

Kind of having fun with this one, especially writing the disconnect part. Should make for a nice and steamy reunion of sorts. :D

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin