Sunday Snippet: Sparkle and Boom (Organic Nature short)

Can't believe we're almost through April. And yet … it's been a really long month. May has some great things happening, namely my youngest graduating from college. She starts grad school in the fall, and I'm amazed by her. I can't wait to see what she does with her future.

Had an okay week of viewing. I'm behind on my work projects so I didn't push hard to get stuff watched, but I did make a full rotation of my shows.

I finished the regular series of My Life Is Murder. I have the bonus content left to watch. I actually loved this show. And, to my astonishment, it looks like there will be a fourth season! And it premieres tonight if I can trust the interwebs.

Caught an episode of Madame Blanc Mysteries. A little disappointed with the friction and push back from Caron about interference with the case, but it's probably a little more true to life than not.

Finished up Silent Witness and loved how it ended. Things didn't go quite the way I expected. I love it when that happens.

Watched the first episode of Jack's tenure of Death in Paradise. I liked the transition from Humphrey to Jack. We're also getting into episodes I've not seen anything of yet and I'm excited to watch new stuff.

Enjoyed an episode of Elementary. This one didn't have the police coming to Sherlock for consultation. He brought a case to them, and I'd like to see more of that. Almost through the first season so maybe I'll get what I want here.

Caught another episode of The Batman and it's one I remembered watching before. I love it when Alfred's past comes calling. He's got some interesting friends.

Watched an episode of Classic Rugrats and, again, this is a new to me one. I don't remember either of the vignettes and that's always fun for me.

Finished out the week with some more Peak Practice. I'm trying to get through the episode I started a few weeks ago. I might get it finished this week.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Sparkle and Boom, an Organic Nature short set in July.

Here's the miniblurb:

Eppie Collins and Vin Derbish head back to the city for another fireworks extravaganza. Maj comes through with comping the VIP suite again, but right before the thrilling show, the couple is interrupted by the last-minute arrival of the registered occupant, much to Maj's dismay.

And a snippety peek…

While Wilkes might not be Eppie's type, she completely got why Maj found him attractive. In the tailored suit, the man defined cultured and refined … with just a bit of roughness under the starched collar. Vin gave a low mmm-hmm under his breath and Eppie turned toward him with an arched brow.

He shrugged, which could mean anything from agreeing Wilkes made a nice fit for Maj to excitement for being able to stay in the lovely suite again.

The elevator slid to a smooth stop and the doors whooshed open. Wilkes led the way to the suite with Maj falling into step beside him. He keyed in the code and gained entry to the charming, old-world penthouse.

 After setting his case inside the foyer area, he turned to face Eppie and Vin. "Please, make yourselves comfortable. I'd like to keep Maj for a few moments." His arms went around Maj's waist.

Vin's lips quirked upward. "Is the second bedroom all right? We'll put our cases in there if it is." He followed Eppie into the plush interior.

Wilkes flashed a smile. "Perfect. We won't be more than a few moments." He didn't take his gaze from Maj during the brief conversation.

Eppie's spine tingled in the best way. Then guilt set in. She grasped Vin's hand and hurried through the suite.

Vin did question why she'd become a speed demon all of a sudden … not until they were in the bedroom with the door closed. "What's up, Ep? You've gone mercurial on me." He stashed the bags on the chair perpendicular to the bed. "Is your matchmaking radar coming online?"

Eppie snorted. "No. Because my instinct says no matchmaking is necessary. I think Wilkes is either proposing to Maj or will before the holiday is over." She'd bet the next quarter's profit on it.

Vin's head jerked back. "For real? Geez, Ep, maybe we should try to find somewhere else to stay? I don't want to intrude if this is supposed to be a special weekend for them." His brows drew together.

Eppie shook her head. "Let's hold off for a few. I could be wrong." Be she doubted it.

Vin reached out and grabbed her hips. "You could be. But it's not likely." He dropped a kiss on her nose. "You've got a habit for calling things straight."

She lifted a shoulder. "That didn't really start until I met you." And finally figured out what being happy should look like.

Vin smiled. "Glad I could help with that." He hugged her close. "Should be head back out or…" His gaze shifted to the bed. "Find something to occupy our time for a while."

Eppie laughed. "I'd like nothing more than a hot and sexy romp with you, but…" She paused when voices carried through from the living area. "I think we should head back out." Lacing her fingers with his, she leaned in. "We can save that thought for later, right?"

Vin gave her a wide grin. "Absolutely."

I love writing Eppie and Vin and their adventures. This series is so much fun!

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Sparkle and Boom

Welcome, October. It's been a week with a lot of ups and downs. Work went well and I got a bunch of projects close to being finished. My middle kid needed some help navigating a challenging week of appointments and mild setbacks with health care.

Not a bad week of television either. I caught two episodes of Prime Suspect. Finished up season three and started season four. Four begins single episodes and I'm looking forward to diving in.

Watched two episodes of Peak Practice. Both were pretty interesting and I like where season five is going.

Finished up Master Class with LeVar Burton and started a new course with Brandon McMillan about training dogs.

Completed Inside the Episodes: The Witcher and I'm looking forward to season two so much right now. To tide myself over, I'm going to watch the making of the series next.

Enjoyed watching Adele: Homecoming. I loved getting some insight into how she got her start and how she creates her music.

Started watching Classic Rugrats with the first episode about Tommy's birthday. I'll look forward to getting back into this show for the sheer nostalgia.

Watched two episodes of Chicago Med. Both ended up making me emotional and all teary-eyed. I love this show!

Enjoyed another The Brokenwood Mysteries. Poor Mike being out of commission made an interesting dynamic change.

Started season thirteen of Silent Witness and vaguely remember the episode. The insurance adjuster woman is the reason. Her obnoxiousness rubbed me wrong the first time around also. I mean I literally want to slap her, she's that annoying.

Also began a new episode of Blue Heelers. This one should prove to be interesting and I have a feeling helicopter parents will be the reason.

Caught a two-part arc of Classic Who. Actually enjoyed it for the most part, even the hints about a possible return of the Master.

Watched another episode of UFO Conspiracies. This one had a focus on cold-climate sightings. A neat spin on the usual fare.

Got two more episodes of The Muppet Show in with John Denver and Crystal Gayle as the guest stars. Season four is officially underway.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Discovery. A lot going on in this one and I liked getting some additional insight into the second in command. I don't have all the names down yet.

Enjoyed an episode of Artist to Icon. This one featured Whitney Houston and I learned a few things I didn't know about her career. I'll probably stick to musicians for this series.

Finally, I caught an episode of Midsommer Murders. Hannah Waddington guest-starred and the episode ended up being such a good one.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Sparkle and Boom, an Organic Nature short for July.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Eppie Collins and Vin Derbish head back to the city for another fireworks extravaganza. Maj comes through with comping the VIP suite again, but right before the thrilling show, the couple is interrupted by the last minute arrival of the registered occupant, much to Maj's dismay.

And a snippety peek…

Vin pulled into the parking garage and headed for the VIP section. "Uh, Ep … looks like Maj is here to greet us this time." He pulled into a slot and cut the engine.

Eppie let out a slow breath. "Maybe not a good thing. She looks upset." Popping the door, Eppie slid out and greeted her friend.

Vin followed but paused when a sleek limo glided to a stop by the elevator. A sinking realization hit and ended up confirmed when Maj pasted a smile on her face and moved to welcome the passenger. Eppie made her way to Vin's side and motioned for him to hold up.

A tall man exited the limo and smiled before taking Maj's hand. "Maj! It's wonderful to see you. Dare I hope this means you've decided to spend the holiday with me?"

Ah, he's very interested in her.

Vin pitched his voice low. "Should we leave? He's only got eyes for Maj right now."

Eppie shook her head. "Not yet. Wanna stay for moral support." She turned to face Vin. "Apparently, he called an hour ago after his flight got diverted. Kind of put Maj on the spot."

Vin nodded. "I figured something like that happened."

Maj's face reddened. "Wilkes, you know I'm working." She extracted her hand from his. "But I'm always flattered when you ask." She worried her lower lip with her teeth. "I've made a bit of a blunder and I wanted to explain in person." Glancing toward Eppie and Vin, she continued. "Prior to your call, I had your suite booked, but everything is ready for you."

Wilkes turned and acknowledged Eppie and Vin.

Maj made the introductions. "Wilkes Osbourne, this is Eppie Collins and Vin Derbish. Eppie is one of my best friends from college."

Vin shook Wilkes's outstretched palm. "Nice to meet you."

Wilkes gave a nod. "Same. And I've just ruined your holiday plans, haven't I?"

Eppie shook her head. "Not at all. We don't have anything specific in mind other than watching the fireworks show."

Wilkes slid his gaze toward Maj. "That's tonight, isn't it?" When Maj affirmed, he glanced back to Vin and Eppie. "Well, why don't you plan to stay? My suite has plenty of room." His lips quirked. "And if you're there, Maj might be willing to join us after she's finished with her shift."

Eppie hesitated. "We couldn't impose." She directed her attention to Maj. "It would be terrific to catch up though."

Vin bit back a chuckle. His supposed non-matchmaking better half couldn't quite help herself … especially when opportunity all but fell in her lap.

Maj's face lit up. "Yes, it would." She met Wilkes's gaze. "You're sure you don't mind?"

He huffed out a breath. "I'm more than sure. Especially if it means I can spend time with you." He retrieved his luggage from the driver and sent him on his way. "Shall we head up?"

Vin got their bags from the Jeep and he and Eppie followed Maj and Wilkes to the elevator. Maj and Wilkes took turns trying not to stare at each other. Eppie rocked back on her heels with a huge grin. Vin's lips curved when the lift started upward. I have a feeling sparks will be flying from more than the fireworks.

I love writing the little peeks into Eppie and Vin's life and having them back in the city is so much fun.

 

That's it for this week. Happy Reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Sparkle and Boom

June kind of flew by in a rainy, chilly, dreary kind of way. I'm kind of looking forward to July. Not the heat so much, because it did finally get hot, but mainly in a new month clean slate deal.

Not a bad week for television. I'm staying somewhat caught up on everything. Started out with an episode of In the Dark and I'm happy Murphy and Dean are on speaking terms again. I also love how much Max messes up with her.

Watched another episode of Classic Roswell and enjoyed it a lot. I'd forgotten Michael became an emancipated minor in the first season. For some reason, I thought that happened later.

Caught Frankie Drake Mysteries and loved this one. I thoroughly enjoy seeing historical characters woven into the storyline. I also still want the detective and Mary to hookup but have a feeling Frankie is in his sights. Bummer.

Man… Riverdale truly embraces the batshit crazy. And I love it. I still want Hiram to go down hard. And Alice… oh, Alice. What the hell happened to you? I guess I better keep watching to find out.

Watched an episode of Arrow and it's one I've been looking forward to. I enjoy the future flashes almost as much as I loved the flashbacks. How awesome is having Nyssa train Mia? Seriously.

Caught the next episode of Krypton and didn't really see Brainiac possessing Seb coming. A cool twist though. I'm also quite enjoying having the multiple storylines unfold. So glad to see Lyta's mom back on the screen.

Painkiller Jane had a solid episode even for a clip show. Series television doesn't do those much anymore, which isn't a bad thing, but when they're done well, it's fun to watch.

Watched another episode of Durham County, the first season finale, and wow. Kudos to the actor who portrays Ray Prager, Sr. Watching him unravel was seriously compelling. I'm so curious about the actual… original… serial killer though. Maybe that line will be picked up again?

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and I'm still enjoying this one.

Also watched the next episode of Midsomer Murders, which ended up being terrific. The mix of themes with Romeo and Juliet and Sleeping Beauty worked out better than expected.

Got two more episodes of Peter Gunn in and also two more of Classic Who. Not a bad way to round out the week.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Sparkle and Boom, an Organic Nature short.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Eppie Collins and Vin Derbish head back to the city for another fireworks extravaganza. Margie comes through with comping the VIP suite again, but right before the thrilling show, the couple is interrupted by the last minute arrival of the registered occupant, much to Margie's dismay.

And a snippety peek…

Eppie Collins finished wrapping her latest batch of hand-milled soap. "I love this fabric. Gotta let Dani know she picked a good one." Her sister bought several bolts of tropical-themed material at an estate sale.

The side door popped open and Vin walked into the house. "Hey… glad I caught you here and didn't have to go searching for you." He toed his boots off and shucked his jeans, which were covered in a combination of drywall dust, wood shavings, and… metallic flecks. "Is anyone here? Do you have customers?" He snagged a pair of shorts from the railing in the laundry room.

Eppie grinned. "Not at the moment. Never know who might walk in though." She made her way around the island Vin had built for her while he shrugged out of his T-shirt. "What brings you home so early in the middle of the day?" The weather had been hot and dry, usually perfect conditions for construction.

Vin huffed out a harsh breath before draping a clean shirt over his shoulder. "Gotta wait on an inspection before we can move on to the next phase of building." His lips quirked in a grin. "And that won't happen until the fifth." He waggled his eyebrows. "So I'm all yours for the next three days. Check that. After I shower, I'm all yours." He started toward the stall he'd tucked into the corner of the laundry area.

Eppie followed him, her gaze riveted to his sculpted ass. "What are the guys going to do?" All of his crews were working on the big project, a discount convenience store.

Vin turned the water on, barely letting it warm up before he stepped under the spray. Considering how hot it had been lately, she didn't blame him. She couldn't do the cold shower thing though.

Vin squirted some shampoo in his palm. "I'm giving them two days off paid at their regular pay scale. Their holiday pay will be the prevailing wage." The bid for the store construction had been at union rates.

Eppie loved how much Vin looked after his employees. He had a good group of guys who showed up day after day and did terrific work. Vin rewarded them when he could with paid time off and bonuses.

"Eppie? Did you hear me?"

She shook her head. "What? Sorry, I was adding to my running list of epic Vin moments." She laughed. "I'm listening now."

Vin repeated his earlier question. "Do you wanna maybe get away for a day or two? Can you get someone to cover the farm on short notice?" He rinsed off and cut the water.

Eppie nodded. "I'm sure I can. What did you have in mind?" Even if Lily had already made plans with Ken, Eppie wouldn't mind shuffling things around to have a few days with Vin.

Vin toweled off. "I was thinking we might head to the city for the fireworks show. Gonna be hard to top New Year's Eve but we can try." His lips curved in a wolfish grin.

Eppie shuddered. New Year's Eve would go down as one her absolute favorite getaways with Vin. Maybe Maj could work her magic again and find a room for them.

Eppie fished her phone out of her pocket. "Let me make a call. See if Maj has anything available." She swiped through her contacts and found the hotel.

Vin quickly dressed. "If she can't, we'll wing it. Drive in for the day, watch the show down by the river then head back after. We can stop at that waffle place you love."

Eppie quirked a brow. "You mean the one you introduced me to? Because I distinctly remember you raving about it." Vin made a who-me gesture and Eppie laughed but quickly sobered when her friend answered. "Hi, Maj. It's Eppie… would you have anything available over the holiday…"

I have so much fun with this series. Eppie and Vin are a terrific couple!

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin