Sunday Snippet: Veritas

A weird week of chilly weather and lots of cleaning projects. I'm at that place where the clutter is driving me bonkers, but I don't have enough hours in the day to really focus on a good cleanout. So … I'm tackling small areas to at least make a little progress.

Lots of work projects landing in my inbox. A few have been quick turnarounds, which I enjoy. I love having a project that I can finish up in a few hours. That type of work helps when I also have three difficult manuscripts that challenge my brain and one that requires a lot of focus.

Had a solid week of viewing. I'm still trying to finish up an episode of Peak Practice, but I made it through a full round of shows.

Started with Mr. and Mrs. Murder, an Australian mystery series. I've seen several episodes but not in order and I'm looking forward to watching this one from beginning to end. Thoroughly enjoyed the first episode, which I had not seen.

Also started a new-to-me British crime drama called London Kills. Loved the first episode and look forward to watching this series.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise introducing the new DI. Enjoyed the interaction between the commissioner and his new lead detective. Interesting to have someone Patterson doesn't particularly like as part of the team.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness. I'm intrigued by the premise of this one. I thought the episode felt a little disjointed and I'm hoping the initial murder somehow ties into the other two. Kind of happy to be guessing on this one.

Watched a fun episode of Elementary with the return of Lestrade. I love the actor, so I love the character. Plus, he's much less annoying than Mycroft.

Enjoyed an episode of The Batman. Finally got a return of Batgirl. I'd forgotten Firefly powered up in a big way and almost blew up Gotham. Great episode.

Caught another new-to-me episode of Classic Rugrats. I'm not a great fan of the three-vignette format but I do have a lot of love for this series.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Veritas, a novella that reunites a couple after a bad breakup.

Here's the miniblurb:

Tillie Cruz has a moment of veritas when she shoots Faxon Jarvis in a friendly fire incident. The realization she wants a life with him may be too late because Faxon has a new relationship, and Tillie doesn't want to mess it up. But she may not have to—her bullet may have done the trick.

And a snippety peek…

Maisie pulled into Faxon's drive and shut the engine off. "Stay there. Let me get the door for you." She hopped out and dashed around the front of the car.

Faxon shook his head. "I could've opened it myself." Maisie didn't hear the muttered words, and he mustered a smile when she insisted on getting the small bag the hospital gave him along with his after-discharge instructions.

He had a full week of follow-up appointments with his primary care physician and a physical therapist. Pain meds were being delivered by the pharmacy and a grocery delivery would be on its way as soon as he had five minutes to order from the app on his phone.

Maisie unlocked his door and opened it wide, so he didn't jostle his injured side. She placed his bag on the coffee table and darted from the kitchen to the bathroom then back with some water and over-the-counter tablets, which she placed on the end table beside him.

He settled on the sofa, wincing when he jarred his wound. Agitated, Maisie paced back and forth, a ball of pent-up energy. She'd pause to glance out the window then go back to walking the length of his living room.

Faxon straightened up on the couch. "I'm getting dizzy. Why don't you sit?" He looked for the television remote thinking she might calm down if they watched something.

She settled on the edge of the chair. "I can't do this." Her fingers twisted in her lap. "I know you think it's nothing, but you got shot." She huffed out a breath. "By one of your own, no less." Her knee bounced up and down.

Faxon got completely serious. "I did, yes. But it's rare. Even by someone who's not on the other side." He could give her the statistics, but decided she didn't need or want numbers.

She wanted reassurance, and he really couldn't give her any.

Maisie shrugged. "Maybe it is, but we've only been together for a few months." She met his gaze. "I can't imagine how I'd deal if we stayed together and it happened again."

Faxon lifted his chin. "So that's it? We end it now?" He didn't mince words or make things harder for her.

She nodded. "Before I fall deeper, yes." Her eyes watered a little, but she didn't cry.

Faxon reached out and clasped her hand. "I'm sorry." He really couldn't say anything else.

Maisie squeezed his fingers. "Don't be. There's no fault here." Her lips twisted in a sad smile. "Not like I didn't know you were a cop from the beginning. I just didn't realize how hard it would be."

Faxon's head bobbed up and down. "I understand." He did … especially since he couldn't offer any guarantees.

She leaned in and kissed him. "Goodbye, Faxon." She got to her feet and quietly left.

Faxon took stock. He should probably be more upset. Getting dumped on the heels of getting shot should sting a lot more than it did. Yet he didn't blame Maisie for bailing and he couldn't find the ache of loss he should have.

Because of Tillie. She'd taken up a lot of space in his mind since her impromptu visit at the hospital. He couldn't shake the idea she'd wanted to say more or that she'd chosen her words carefully when he called and asked to see her.

Leaning his head against the cushions, he stared at the ceiling. "We need to talk, Tillie. Soon." He had a lot he wanted to say.

And he'd find a way to make her listen.

I like writing reunions when a conflict has to be resolved. Faxon hopes he'll be back on track with Tillie in the near future … if she doesn't end up running scared.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

 

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Veritas

Kind of a busy, frustrating week. We dug out of eleven inches of snow, which is actually a lot more than we've seen in several years. I had a lot of work stuff hit sideways and struggled to get some insurance stuff sorted out for my middle kidlet.

Had a decent week of television viewing, mainly due to hold times on the phone. I started with Seduction and Snacks, a PassionFlix movie and have about half of it completed. I had to pause because the distractions were too many and I want to take my time and enjoy this one.

Got two more episodes of Snoopy in Space watched and kind of enjoyed both. It's fun to have something quick and easy to view.

Caught some behind-the-scenes stuff for The Madame Blanc Mysteries. So much fun to watch the cast interviews and get some insight on how they shot the series. I really hope they do a second one.

Finished up one and began a new Silent Witness two-parter. Good stuff this season. I'm looking forward to more.

Watched two more episodes of Classic Who. The Master is gone again—for now. Can't say I'm sorry to see him go. Six is kind of growing on me and it's fun to have two wandering around again. I'll see how that arc ends this week.

Enjoyed two more episodes of The Alaska Triangle. Shipwrecks and underwater UFOs and ghost ships were the focus. Always love watching what might have happened to downed ships.

Started The Muppets and, meh, it's okay. Really lacks the charm of the original but it's kind of fun to see the muppets in a docu-style series.

Caught another two episodes of Fosse Verdon. I'm so intrigued by the ins and outs of Bob and Gwen's personal and professional lives. Can't wait to finish this one.

Watched two more episodes of Peak Practice. I'm almost finished with season six and should be starting seven this week. I've enjoyed not having weird manipulating characters for the past few episodes.

Got two more MasterClass lessons with Bill Nye. I love how much fun he has educating people.

Ended up getting in two more episodes of Classic Rugrats—two of my favorites. I love reminiscing while watching.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med and enjoyed it a lot. Really looking forward for more next week.

Caught another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I'm kind of sad because a favorite character ended up saying good-bye. I'm hoping some light will be shed in the behind-the-scenes interviews.

Enjoyed a seriously great episode of Star Trek: Discovery. This show … never fails to suck me into the action and emotion.

Last but not least, I finished the second season of The Witcher. I'm so intrigued by the ending and can't wait for more episodes. I ended up being very satisfied with how things played out for the main trio and the side characters. I love this show.

That's it for the weekly television update. Tonight's post is from Veritas, a novella that features a couple that broke up but still have unfinished business.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Tillie Cruz has a moment of veritas when she shoots Faxon Jarvis in a friendly fire incident. The realization she wants a life with him may be too late because Faxon has a new relationship and Tillie doesn't want to mess it up. But she may not have to—her bullet may have done the trick.

And a snippety peek…

Tillie stood outside Faxon's room waiting for him to wake up. The surgery to repair some damage from her bullet went well, according to Faxon's CO. Tillie needed to see him for herself.

She glanced in the window. "Damn." Maisie sat by Faxon's bed.

Of course, she would be there. She deserved to be at his side. Unlike Tillie.

All the reasons she now realized they belonged together ran through her head. "I'm such an idiot." The guy du jour didn't really work except on a physical level.

And Tillie wanted more. She craved the emotional connection—the good and the difficult. But only with Faxon. Why did she trash their relationship?

Maisie got up to answer a call and headed for the door. Tillie made a mad dash for the closest alcove in the hallway. She didn't want to face Faxon's new lover. Not when her bullet put him out of commission.

Maisie exited the room with her phone to her ear. "I'll be right there. No, he's sleeping again." Her footsteps carried her down the corridor.

So … he'd been awake, at least for a little while. Relief filled her. She had to see him, if only for a few moments.

Tillie checked the hall and didn't see Maisie anymore. She went in to see Faxon; she would only stay long enough to satisfy her need to see him whole. Reaching out, she grasped his fingers.

A wave of emotion swept through her. The warmth of his skin seeped into her, chasing away the cold ball of dread she'd carried since she shot him. He'd be okay. She didn't care about anything else.

Okay, not true. But she'd live with the consequences of her own making.

Lost in thought, she let out a small gasp when he stirred.

He woke slowly, blinked, and smiled. "Hello, world." His gaze met hers, looking as if she and only she mattered to him.

He had to be under the influence of pain meds and thinking he spoke to Maisie.

Tillie cleared her throat. "Hey, do you need anything."

His face cleared when he heard her voice. He glanced around, his gaze darting past her shoulder.

Tillie squeezed his hand. "She got a phone call and had to leave."

He exhaled slowly and seemed relieved. "She's a bit of mess over me getting shot. The last time I woke up, she couldn't stop crying."

Tillie cringed. "I'm sorry." She waited a beat. "For everything." She grasped his hand again. "Take care of yourself and let me know if you need anything." She let go and he started to shift, to sit up.

He grimaced and heaved a sigh. "Damn, that hurts."

Tillie shook her head. "Please, don't. I have a mandatory counseling session and can't be late." She didn't wait for a response, quickly exiting the room, and made it halfway down the hall before the tears came.

She wanted to stay and curl up with him but he had someone—who obviously cared deeply.

Dashing the tears from her eyes, she headed for the elevator. "Stupid. So stupid to realize too late how much I love him."

I'm pleased with how this one is coming together. Tillie's revelation is a step in the right direction even if she's kind of hopeless right now.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Veritas

November 3, 2019

Hello, November. The temperature dropped significantly, which kind of sucks for my household since we can't get our new furnace until the middle of next week. That said, with some careful placement, space heaters are doing an excellent job of keeping the house comfortable. As long as we don't dip into single digits, we're golden.

Not a bad week for television. I have a heavy workload right now but still squeezed in some decent viewing.

I started out with Riverdale and, wow, what a great episode. I'm still catching up from last season so this episode featured FP's fiftieth. Cole Sprouse and Skeet Ulrich brought their A games. Also loved the linked montage of Archie's king of the mountain battle with Cheryl and Toni's hot session in the speakeasy. The breakup ended up being a lot more painful than I anticipated but excellent work from the women. Reggie and Veronica's falling out also packed a punch. Reggie is very much growing on me as a character. A few random notes… I absolutely hate the entire farm storyline. I also dislike Hiram with the passion of a thousand suns going supernova. Don't see that changing anytime soon.

I finally got to sit and watch Arrow's season finale. I can honestly say the ugly crying didn't stop after the credits rolled. Everyone acted their collective asses off—Stephen and Emily in particular. Stephen, quite frankly, blew me away. Watching him evolve as Oliver over seven seasons has been a true joy. Seriously… I'm going to miss this show so much. My one main disappointment is not getting any scenes with Oliver and Mia. I'd love to see the two actors interact.

I thoroughly enjoyed Murdoch Mysteries. Nice to see George's family tree expand and with such a terrific character (pun intended). I have so much fun watching this show.

Frankie Drake Mysteries also made me smile. I'm still getting used to the new opening and the somewhat different shift in the show's dynamic. That said, it's growing on me and I like the fabulous foursome and their interactions.

Caught a new story arc on Sapphire and Steel. This show is usually background noise for me when I'm working and I have the horrible feeling I'm really missing a lot. I'm going to make an effort to really focus when I start the third assignment.

Watched the beginning of series nine with Classic Who. The daleks returned to be a huge pain, per usual. I always enjoy episodes that feature them.

Should be catching another episode of Midsomer Murders in the very near future.

That's it for this week. Tonight's post is from Veritas, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Tillie Cruz has a moment of veritas when she shoots Faxon Jarvis in a friendly fire incident. The realization she wants a life with him may be too late because Faxon has a new relationship and Tillie doesn't want to mess it up. But she may not have to—her bullet may have done the trick.

And a snippety peek…

Tillie leaned into the window of the car. "Thanks for the ride." She pounded her fist lightly on the door then turned and started for the precinct house.

"Hey… can I get your number?"

Tillie closed her eyes and paused. Damn… so close to a clean getaway.

She pivoted and went back to the car, only ducking down this time. "Look, I thought I made it pretty clear and we agreed to scratch each other's itch. Let's leave things there, okay?" She met his gaze, trying like hell to even remember his name.

Max. Right.

Max rolled a shoulder. "Didn't hurt to try. Look me up again if you need another scratching post." He put the car in gear and rolled away from the curb.

Tillie breathed a sigh of relief. Six months out from her break up with Faxon and she still had zero desire to get tangled up with anyone else. The guy du jour thing worked just fine.

No it doesn't.

Tillie yanked the door to the precinct house open and ruthlessly ignored her inner voice. Her pushy inner self could get bent. Tillie would focus on her career and prove Faxon wrong about everything.

Why does it matter if he doesn't anymore?

Tillie tossed her bag into her locker. "Argh. Shut up." Dragging out a fresh shirt, she quickly tugged the one she wore over her head and traded it with the new one.

Jensen Gates poked her hear around the end of the row. "Uh… I didn't say anything." She gave Tillie a raised eyebrow. "Rough night?"

Tillie rolled her eyes. "Depends on how you define rough. The sex was fantastic. The drop off this morning not so much." She sank down on the bench and grabbed her work shoes.

Jensen's lips quirked. "That's the third one this month. Are you sure you're telling them you're only interested in a one-time, mutually satisfying romp?" She braced her shoulders against the opposite row of lockers.

Tillie shook her head. "Always." Shoving her foot inside a closed clog, she reached for the other one. "Maybe I'll see what's available in undercover work right now. I need something different." She smoothed down her pants, pressing against the fabric.

Jensen nodded. "You could also look into some task force openings. I heard there were two spots coming up." She fell into step beside Tillie after they exited the locker room.

Tillie pursed her lips. "Hmm. I like the sound of that. I'll check into it." She parted company with Jensen at the causeway. "Thanks, Jen."

Either area—task force or undercover—would take up time and give her focus. She'd check with her lieutenant to see if he'd put in a good word for her.

You're still trying to fill a Faxon-sized void.

Tillie growled. "Shut. Up."

If she didn't know better, she'd swear her inner voice guffawed.

I like Tillie's inner voice. It's so much fun to write internal conflict, especially when the inner self is snarky and almost always right.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Veritas

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. It's a beautiful day in Ohio and I hope to enjoy the weather for a while.

Another terrific week in television. Gotham keeps working the crazy and I'm loving it. The blending of three or more plot threads is terrific and I hope we continue seeing a nice mix of all.

I missed most of The Flash. See crazy month starting for me last post. But, I'll catch up before Tuesday's new episode.

Arrow delivered another great episode. I love having Thea back even if it might only be for a little while. I'm not sure what's going on with Rene, but it'll be interesting to see how that plays out. Something tells me Chase might have something to do with why he didn't show up. I'm truly hoping the final showdown ends up being between Oliver and Talia with a little Nyssa thrown in.

Riverdale's season finale rocked! The first arc is finished and the second one opened with a serious bang. I'm honestly excited to see what the hell happens next. It'll be a major wrench in the Arch / Ronnie duo if her dad had anything to do with Fred's shooting. And something tells me that's a big possibility. Then again, I won't be surprised if that's a red herring and Mayor McCoy is actually the one behind the violence. Or maybe even Hermione. I'll have to wait not-so-patiently to find out. LOL

Last Sunday's Talking with Chris Hardwick turned out to be an excellent show. I'm a Charlie Hunnam fan and having him on for the entire hour was terrific. I love Chris's laid back style a lot.

Finally got caught up on Murdoch Mysteries and, wow, what a season finale. Definitely hope the show is renewed for an eleventh season.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Veritas, a novella that got a start with a two-word prompt of "hello world". What a fun prompt for something of a serious premise.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Tillie Cruz has a moment of veritas when she shoots Faxon Jarvis in a friendly fire incident. The realization she wants a life with him may be too late because Faxon has a new relationship and Tillie doesn't want to mess it up. But she may not have to—her bullet may have done the trick.

And a snippety peek…

I get the job done.

Tillie's parting words echoed in Faxon's head at least once a day. But he didn't waste time making up arguments to prove her wrong. Okay, he didn't do it often. Not anymore. The first month of their breakup, he'd come up with dozens of counterpoint comebacks.

He snorted. "For all the damned good it did." Which, yeah, meant none at all.

She transferred to a new unit, effectively sending the message she didn't need or want contact with him. Fine. Hint taken.

Moving forward, he spent the second Tillie-free month going out with a variety of women. Nothing big, mainly testing the waters again. A good experience but not his thing.

Craving his morning joe, he ducked into the coffee shop and waited his turn in line.

A new barista smiled. "Hi, welcome to Jumpin' Joe. What can I create for you today?" She gave him a flirty look from beneath her lashes.

He like the package. A saucy ponytail swished behind her head. Dark hair and eyes and she made the bright blue apron, worn over her white collared shirt and khaki pants, look terrific. He definitely couldn't say that about all the employees who worked there.

Faxon took the bait. "An Americano with your name would be great." He flashed a grin.

She laughed and held up a finger. "Give me one sec. I'll make the most amazing Americano you've ever had." She bounced up on her toes. "I always get the job done." Spinning around, she got busy putting his drink together.

I always get the job done.

Faxon huffed out a breath. "It's gotta be kismet." If she gave him her name, he'd ask her out.

She turned back and handed him his order. "I hope you enjoy your joe." Her gaze dropped to the cup in his hand.

He glanced down. Maisie. She'd given him her name.

And better yet… she'd written in her number directly below.

Faxon paid for his coffee and thanked Maisie with a wink.

Exiting the shop, he hummed a jaunty tune and strolled down the block. The day looked to be shaping up nicely and, for once, he couldn't wait to be off shift to see what the night would bring.

I rather like how quickly Faxon is getting back out there. We'll see if Tillie feels the same way.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Veritas

February 1, 2015

One more week until Bitten returns with season two. I can't wait!! Banshee is amping up the tension and I'm looking forward to the next episode. Makes me miss Strike Back and look forward to whenever it comes back to my television screen.

My usual fare, The Flash, Arrow, Gotham, and Sleepy Hollow had good showings. I'm enjoying the story arc on Arrow even if my twitter feed seems to hold a different opinion. I love the flashbacks and how they reveal information about Oliver's time off the island.

Also need to take a moment to mention Lost Girl. It's the final season and I'm so going to miss the show when it's gone. Thankfully, I'll have Orphan Black to look forward to soon and will get to see Ksenia Solo in a new role. J

Tonight's post is from Veritas, a novella where a friendly fire incident brings a couple home to their truth.

Here's the tagline:

Tillie Cruz has a moment of veritas when she shoots Faxon Jarvis in a friendly fire incident. The realization she wants a life with him may be too late because Faxon has a new relationship and Tillie doesn't want to mess it up. But she may not have to—her bullet may have done the trick.

A snippety peek…

Tillie spun around and faced Faxon. "You know what? We're done here." She gathered up her gear. "Don't bother stopping by after your shift is over, because you're no longer welcome."

Faxon crossed his arms over his chest. "Cut and run? Why doesn’t that surprise me?"

Tillie fought the urge to punch him. "Because you know how goddamned annoying you are?" Biting words worked just as good as physical violence.

Faxon's nostrils flared, but he didn't speak.

Tillie smirked. "Exactly. You don't have the right to get in my way. I know what I'm doing out there." She flung her jacket over her shoulder. "If you'll remember, I graduated from the academy." She angled her around. "At a higher standing than you, I might add."

Faxon's mouth thinned to a slash across his face. "Yeah, you did. But you're too cocky out there, Tills." He turned and opened his locker. "And someday that's going to bite you on the ass." His gaze met hers. "Hard."

She snorted and headed for the exit. "Whatever. I get the job done." She strolled out the door and left Faxon behind, putting him firmly out of her mind.

She had a solid reputation and he had no business raking her over the coals for putting herself in danger. They were cops. Peril came with the work.

Nothing like a little conflict to get things started. J

That's it for this week. Happy reading.

Skylin