Sunday Snippet: Auld Lang Syne

The work project abundance continues. I'm plugging along and chiseling away at the four current projects I have on my plate—two copy edits, a proofread, and a developmental edit are the main events. I also have a set of revisions to review and a read through to start. It's chaotic but also … fun? I love that everything I'm working on right now is so different. Not one of the manuscripts is similar to the other ones.

As usual, totally unhinged weather in Ohio. It's cold. It's hot. It's both in one day. Rain, sun, gloomy clouds, and hey, a chance for more snow. I did get lucky and had a mostly clear night for the recent blood moon eclipse, which was amazing to watch. Being a night owl comes in very hand sometimes.

Had a limited viewing schedule this week, mainly because I needed to focus on the words in the manuscripts. I did get a few things watched. I might have to give binge watching something for background noise a go for the next few weeks.

Finished up Beyond Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed the first season finale. They packed so much into this episode. The case, Humph and Archie fight, more shenanigans from the Chief Super, Esther and Hump bonding, Margo being Margo, Kelby being Kelby, and of course, the crew from Death in Paradise at the end. I can't wait to watch the first holiday episode this week!

Caught an episode of Elementary and quite enjoyed it. Interesting interactions between the consulting trio and the police duo and twisty bits thrown in to keep things rolling.

Enjoyed an episode of Batman Beyond. It's one I definitely remembered and liked during my first watch of this series.

Watched an episode of Classic Rugrats and actually remember this one, which is odd because most of the ninth season has been new-to-me stuff.

Started an episode of London Kills, the opener to the fourth season. I had to stop partway through because I need to pay attention and this isn't the week for me to do that.

Also binged a marathon of Peter Gunn on one of the live PlexTV channels. I've been hitting Plex up for a lot of viewing fare lately and I might end up using it over the next several weeks for background noise. Stay tuned.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Auld Lang Syne, a novella featuring the trio from Mistletoe Madness.

Here's the miniblurb:

When a New Year's Eve party turns into a surprise memorial for Delaney Nixon's mom, Scotty London and Westin Ames help Delaney face the auld lang syne with grace and gratitude while it stirs up old memories. The trio then returns home for some much-needed TLC.

And a snippety peek…

Westin glanced up then narrowed his eyes when the bell jangled over the front entrance and Landon walked in. "Things go okay with Laney this morning?" He set the wrench on his workstation and wiped his hands.

Scotty gave a nod. "Yeah, all good." He held up a takeout bag from the Roadside, a diner between his office and Westin's garage. "Thought we could have a conversation about New Year's Eve." Dropping the food on the counter, he unbuttoned his coat and pulled the scarf from around his neck.

Westin cocked his head. "What's going on, Landon?" He pulled a stool out and settled on it.

Scotty grimaced. "A lot. And I might need some backup from you." He got seated and started taking food out of the bag. "Remember the meeting I went to about the ball?"

Westin grunted. "Yeah, what about it?" Landon's previous commitment gave Wes time to be alone with Delaney.

Scotty sighed. "The committee is planning a memorial for Joanie." He unwrapped a smash burger. "And they want it to be a surprise for Del."

Westin nearly choked on the waffle fry he'd stuffed into his mouth. "They what?" He chewed and swallowed then reached for the tea Scotty pushed his way. "You agreed to this?" Why else would Landon be here if he hadn't.

Scotty huffed out a breath. "Not much choice. The women already had the whole thing organized and gave me the task of making sure Del gets there." He took a huge bite of his burger.

Westin mulled the idea over. "Joanie didn't want a big deal. Laney honored her wishes." He picked up his sandwich. "This kinda flies in the face of that, doesn't it?" He met Landon's gaze.

Scotty's head bobbed up and down. "Yeah. But they're convinced making the ball a celebration of Joanie's life is a great idea. Something to bring the whole community together and welcome Del back into the fold so to speak." He shrugged. "I mean, I get where they're coming from, and it is a sweet gesture from Joanie's friends, but…" His voice trailed off.

Wes grunted. "It could be super emotional for Laney." Damn.

Scotty nodded. "Yeah. That's why I'm here. To make sure we're prepared for all possible outcomes." He shoveled some fries into his mouth.

Westin's lips quirked. "All right. Consider this our first strategy session for operation auld lang syne." He sobered. "By the way, the only formal thing I own is my uniform. Where can I get suit on short notice?"

Scotty laughed. "I know just the place. Plan on a long lunch tomorrow."

I love writing this trio. The guys are a lot of fun and exploring their new friendship outside of the relationship they share with Delaney is joyful for me.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Meet Me by the Mistletoe

The shortest month went by really fast. I can't believe we're headed for March again. It's been such a weird year and I'm actually kind of blown away that it feels like the last twelve months have flown by yet also seemed to last a decade. Seriously.

Had a somewhat busy work week and didn't get a lot of television watched. But I got a few things viewed. Started with Silent Witness and finished up the first episode of season nine.

I actually got two arcs of Classic Who watched. I think I'm almost finished with season thirteen. I like this season. There have been some interesting episodes and I love Elisabeth Sladen a lot.

Caught an episode of Peak Practice. I had to do some downloading with the IMDBTV app to get back into this one. That's what happens when I take a longish break.

As usual, I caught my mystery shows on Ovation and some Classic Perry Mason. Also caught a binge marathon of Hawaii Five-0. I'm hoping to see the last two seasons at some point.

That's pretty much it for television. Tonight's post is from Meet Me by the Mistletoe, a follow up to Merry and Bright, featuring Presley, Frazier, and Gunnar a year later.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Presley Griffith wants to create one more new holiday tradition with her men, Gunnar Stewart and Frazier Boyle, and celebrate their one-year anniversary with style. With hectic schedules revolving around the hospital, fire station and police department, she's not sure she can pull it off. A cryptic message to meet her by the mistletoe at a secluded bed and breakfast brings both men calling with bells on.

And a snippety peek…

Gunnar Stewart had serious doubts about Presley getting a tattoo, but the idea made him grin. "She's been going on and on about getting one." He wouldn't mind unveiling the artwork for Christmas, especially if it involved a hot romp in bed with Fraz.

He exited the precinct house and slid behind the wheel of his personal vehicle. He'd just started the engine when a text pinged. Quickly checking the ID, he opened the message.

"Dismissed class early. Wanna meet at the jewelers?"

Gunnar grinned and typed a quick response. "Hell, yeah. See you in ten." He and Frazier designed a trio of rings and planned to surprise Presley for the holiday.

He put the car in gear and drove out of the lot, anticipation filling him. He'd had the best year of his life, which kind of blew his mind. Who knew sharing a bed with his best friend and the woman of his dreams would become a check-off on his life-goal list?

Turning down the street, he started toward the jewelry shop. "A kid growing up in the system finally finds a family. Can't get much better." At least not for him.

Gunnar's optimism battled with the terrible shit he dealt with on a daily basis. Having Frazier and Presley in his life made things better. Being intimately involved with both actually helped keep him from getting burned out.

He let out a laugh. "Never thought anyone would do that." Mainly because he tended to be a loner.

But Frazier didn't let Gunnar get away with being aloof. Fraz's big family meant the guy didn't know the meaning of keeping his nose out of someone's business. Not that Gunnar cared. When he needed a place to crash, Fraz opened his door and invited Gunnar in … then offered to share the lease.

Then they met Presley and both had the hots for her. The friendly rivalry made spending time at the hospital a lot more pleasant. She'd kept them at arm's length until last Christmas when everything changed and they ended up not making her choose between them.

Instead, they shared her bed and her life.

Pulling into the parking lot, he cut the engine. "And it's better than good." He got out and met Frazier at the entrance of the shop.

I love this trio. The sages are whispering about a New Year's story for this group and I'm excited to see what they come up with.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: The Bedroom Chronicles

Crazy weather in Ohio this week. Warm, then cold and rainy, and then a little slushy snow mix thrown in. I can honestly say I'm kind of ready for spring to get here in full. At least having the option to go outside and enjoy some sun breaks things up a bit.

Not a big week for television but I got a few shows watched. I started with an episode of Arrow and I'll be getting ready to start the Crisis Crossover soon.

Caught the penultimate episode of Murdoch Mysteries. I'm sad about the death of a character I liked. I loved George's side story. I have no earthly clue what Julia is doing but I'm rolling along with the character arc to see where things go. I do like seeing the ups and downs of William and Julia.

Watched an episode of Riverdale and, wow, the batshit ramped up to double digits, which I love. I still hate Hiram with the burning passion of a thousand suns and gotta say the character kind of ruins the show for me. We'll see how this season shakes out but I honestly can't stand it when he's on the screen. I'm not sure how I feel about the Charles / Chick development but we'll see how that one plays out also.

Had a virtual watch party with a good friend and we rolled out The Rise of Skywalker. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie to bits. I'm hoping we'll get more of those in soon.

Started the second episode of Roswell, New Mexico's new season. So far, I'm enjoying but I really want Maria to finally be aware of the aliens. The fact she isn't really bugs me. So far, I'm not a huge fan of having Rosa back either.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from The Bedroom Chronicles, a novella that got a start during a brainstorming session.

Here's the mini-blurb:

When Birk musters out of the military, he drops in on his best friend, Klint and his wife Elsie. They welcome Birk into their home and eventually their bed because Elsie can't think of anyone better than her husband's oldest friend to fulfill their deepest fantasy. But sometimes the best laid plans go awry and dealing with the fallout is a challenge.

And a snippety peek…(explicit content ahead)

Klint's eyes rolled back when Birk nodded then swallowed, his muscles closing around the tip of Klint's cock. The sensation drove him wild. He let go of Birk's head and dropped his hand to scrape a nail over Birk's nipple. Birk moaned around Klint's shaft.

Klint smiled. "Like that, do you?" Klint loved the vibrations Birk's limited vocal ability provided.

Birk nodded again and worked his tongue around the rigid flesh in his mouth. Klint's thighs flexed; the anticipation of what he wanted to do next building to a simmering boil. Birk didn't let up or slow down, his lips changed pressure, his tongue swirled then flicked then rubbed against the veiny skin, and his fingers massaged Klint's testes and brushed over his taint at the same time. Easing back, his cock pulled out of Birk's mouth with a loud pop and Birk sent him a questioning glance.

Klint flashed a quick grin and nodded toward the nightstand. "Get your ass ready for a reaming."

Birk leaned back and delved into the drawer for a tube of lubricant. He squirted some out onto his fingers then set the container within easy reach for Klint. Shifting around, he sprawled onto his side and sucked the tip of Klint's dick with his lips.

Klint grunted, enjoying the suction on his cockhead. "You're gonna love getting split wide, aren't you?" If possible, his prick got harder when Birk answered by increasing the pressure of his mouth while working first one, then a second finger into his rectum. When they moved back and forth with ease, Klint nudged Birk's head away from his cock. "Get ready, buddy. I'm gonna plow that ass."

Birk gave Klint a hot-eyed look before getting up on his hands and knees. Klint fished a condom out of his fatigues and rolled it on then lubed up. He moved into position and wedged the tip of his dick between Birk's butt cheeks.

Birk bumped back. "Give that bad boy dick, Klint. Fuck my ass." He wiggled his rear end and Klint's cockhead teased Birk's back hole.

Klint grabbed Birk's hips and he eased forward, working the head past Birk's anal ring. Once he slid through the circle of muscle, he went deep with one smooth thrust. "God, your ass feels incredible." Birk's tight passage milked Klint's dick with exquisite pressure.

Mindful of his size and Birk's limited experience, Klint moved slowly, pulling back then sliding forward again.

Birk groaned. "Fuck. Your cock is amazing. Way better than a butt plug."

Klint cracked a grin then caught their reflection in the mirror beside the bathroom door. Birk's hard-on angled downward, rubbing against the sheets, twitching and jumping in reaction to the ass stimulation. The rigid length would look damn good with Elsie's lips wrapped around it.

Without missing a stride, he called over his shoulder. "Else! Come on in."

She charged into the room and stopped short, her eyes going wide. Her gaze filled with molten lust. "God. Damn. That's hot."

Klint smirked then nodded toward Birk. "Someone needs their big dick sucked. Think you can help out with that?"

So far, these characters are taking me in directions I didn't foresee and I'm loving it. Not sure when this project will be finished but I hope I do the trio justice.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: X Marks the Spot

Hello 2020! I'm quite thrilled to have a clean new year to take out for a spin. We have a new puppy named Maggie Mae and she's a sweetie. Her big sister Annabelle needed a companion and so far they're settling in together very well. I'd totally forgotten how much energy puppies have. Yeesh.

Had a limited week of television viewing but got a few shows watched. I caught a full arc of Classic Who and also watched quite a bit of the Doctor Who marathon on BBC America. Sadly, I missed almost all of the episodes from last season.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers. I had a long hiatus mainly because I've been catching up on laundry and had so much to fold I couldn't do it in my laundry room.

Watched two more episodes of Gargoyles. Also had another great conversation with my oldest about watching this show when he was a little one.

Caught the prom night episode of Riverdale and, again, enjoyed the hell out of it. This show is so incredibly batshit I can't not have fun while watching.

Also watched an episode of Murdoch Mysteries. I'm so on the fence about where they're going with William and Julia. To date, this show has never let me down so I'm hoping that won't be the case here.

Finally, I started an episode of Frankie Drake Mysteries. This is another show that rarely lets me down and I'm having a good time watching this episode.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from X Marks the Spot, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nydia Vreeland takes her boyfriend, Declan Morris, on an adult adventure vacation where sexy fun and games ensue. X Marks the Spot Private Island Resort caters to couples who want to push the boundaries of their sexual experience. The way Nydia figures things, there's no way she can lose.

And a snippety peek…

Nydia accepted the hand Declan offered her and stepped onto the dock. "Wow, this is gorgeous." The tropical foliage dazzled in its native environment.

Declan wrapped an arm around her waist. "It is, yes. And so are you." His lips nuzzled her throat. "Did you say we're being met by the couple who owns the resort?" His hand slid down her back to cup her ass.

A thrill shot through her at the mention of Grant and Heidi. "I did, yes. And here they are…" She smiled a greeting when they approached. "Geez, they're even more stunning in person." Her heartbeat kicked up a notch.

Grant extended a hand to Declan. "Hello, I'm Grant. Welcome to our island." His gaze shifted to Nydia. "You've got one hell of a woman here, Declan."

Declan clasped Grant's palm. "Indeed I do. I can say the same for you." He nodded toward Heidi. "It's nice to meet both of you."

Nydia shook hands with Heidi. "This is such a beautiful locale. We're so excited to be here." She fell into step beside the other woman.

Heidi looped Nydia's arm around hers. "We're thrilled to have you. Grant and I don't often get to be part of the same package." She leaned in closer. "We're more than a little excited too." She stopped in front of small bungalow. "This is yours." Stepping back, she allowed the porter to enter with the luggage. "Grant and I right behind you." She pointed to a two-story cottage barely visible through the thick greenery separating the homes.

Nydia raised an eyebrow. "You're not residing in the main lodge?" Why she assumed they would be, she couldn't say.

Heidi laughed. "Only when necessary. The house is kind of our sanctuary. Gives us a place that's just ours." She motioned for Nydia to precede her into the bungalow.

The guys followed and the space should have been crowded, but the airy, minimalist décor kept it from feeling that way. The living area opened out from the small foyer space with the kitchen and dining area within view. The entire right exterior wall had arched doorways open to the patio with billowy curtains stirring in the ocean breeze.

Grant walked through the living room and nodded toward the wide hallway. "Bedroom and bath is along this side and a spa area with a bonus room are on the opposite side. There's also a den with a fireplace tucked in behind the bedroom." He moved down the corridor and opened another door. "This leads out to a paved pathway that will take you to our house." He closed the door and rejoined them. "We'd like to entertain you with dinner and drinks around seven if you're not too worn out from the trip down here."

Nydia slid her gaze toward Declan and arched an eyebrow.

He grinned. "We'd love to join you. Thank you." He slid an arm around Nydia.

Grant and Heidi made their exit and Declan turned to face Nydia.

He cupped her face in his hands. "You are the most amazing woman." His mouth slanted over hers and Nydia patted herself on the back with a mental high five.

I'm excited about this story. The idea is pushing me to explore concepts I don't normally delve into and I'm having fun with the challenge.

That's it for this week. Happy reading.

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Wind It Up

So, I'm pretty much caught up on the holiday shopping and just in time. We adopted another doggo this week and I ended up with a mild case of the flu. So far, a multi-symptom medication is taking care of the flu and the puppy is chewing her way through anything she can sink her teeth into. We're working on the little shredder to help break her of tearing into everything.

Slow week for television, but I did watch a Classic Who arc. I think I have one left of season nine.

Caught two more episodes of Gargoyles. I had a great conversation with my oldest about the shows we watched together when he was little. Some great memories shared of how much fun we had.

Started Mr. 365, a Passionflix original, but stopped it about halfway through because I'm behind on everything and I wanted to catch Dirty Sexy Saint, the holiday movie for this year. I'll finish up Mr. 365 soon.

I'm in the middle of Dirty Sexy Saint and, so far, love it. I'm so glad I got a founding member's subscription to Passionflix.

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

Here's the mini-blurb:

Garner Mason enlists in the military and leaves Rae Manilow behind—breaking her heart. Rae meets Sheriff Felix Reynolds and falls hard, settling down with him in his mountain cabin. When Garner rolls into town intent on making amends with Rae, she's trapped between two men she deeply loves and can't see a way out of her predicament.

And a snippety peek…

Garner eased Rae to the bed and peeled off her clothes. He stripped her with slow deliberation, memorizing every curve bared to his gaze. If he could, he'd get on bended knee and ask her to wait… but she deserved so much better than him.

His slow perusal brought a gorgeous flush to her skin. "You're so beautiful, Rae." He shed his shirt and jeans, crawling up beside her.

She palmed his erection. "You're the first person who ever made me feel like I am." Her lips grazed along his shoulder.

You're the first person…

He'd been her first for pretty much everything.

Date

Kiss

Boyfriend

Lover

And he'd never forget any of those.

But she'd been the first person to ever look past the wrong side of the tracks he came from. The first to think he could be better than his history. The first to give him a chance to be the man he wanted to be.

The first to love him unconditionally.

He cupped her face in his hands. "I'll love you forever, Rae. Please know that." His lips caught hers and his tongue slipped past her teeth.

She responded with quiet passion, moaning low in her throat. He settled between her thighs, nudging up against her entrance. Breaking the kiss, he waited until she met his gaze before thrusting forward, sliding deep inside her.

Her chin lifted and her eyes darkened but she didn't look away. Her legs wrapped around his waist and her hips rose, meeting his groin. Garner sucked in a harsh breath. Her silky heat surrounded him and he wanted to stay buried within her for a lifetime.

But he didn't have a lifetime… only small window of moments to fill up on and take with him on the road. The ticking clock counting down to their farewell spurred him onward. He pumped his hips, rained kisses over her skin, and caressed every valley and plane he could reach with his tongue.

Only when Rae gasped and shuddered under him did he finally give in and follow along behind her. His release stormed through his body and he collapsed, easing to the side and gathering her in his arms. She snuggled up against him, placing her head on his chest.

Garner brushed his lips over her temple. "Sleep or another round?" His hand palmed her butt.

Rae's lips curved. "Are you kidding? Another round as soon as you're ready."

Damn, he loved her.

This is one of my favorite combinations, mixing a reunion romance with a new one. I love the possibilities when two people have to put what's best for another ahead of their own egos.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin