Sunday Snippet: X Out the Date

Time to wrap up 2024 and send it on its happy way. For me, it's been a year of ups and downs and sometimes the downs packed a punch. That said, I try to focus on the ups and pull that energy into my realm.

Wild weather, per usual. We had sixty degrees yesterday, so my husband went golfing. He's been down with a nasty cold and wanted / needed the fresh air and exercise. Today it's raining and dreary outside.

Finished up a section of a developmental edit I've been working on. So excited to have it done, because we're almost to the finish line on this story. One more chunk of chapters then a full read through and we'll be ready to go.

A semi-decent week of viewing even with the holiday thrown in this week. I still need to pick a new show to watch on one of my streamers and I finished another show and will need to replace it also.

Started season three of Elementary. I'm not sure how I feel about Harsh Joan or New Watson working with Sherlock. Also feel a bit off by Gregson's backhanded bitchslap to Sherlock. I do love that Sherlock is seeing consequences for his actions, even if they were to preserve his sobriety. Season three could prove to be interesting.

I finished The Batman series and thoroughly enjoyed the rewatch. I feel like there's at least one episode I missed, but maybe I'm remembering a different series.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats and didn't remember either of the vignettes. Loved the babies thinking they were helping and the grown-ups getting locked in the playpen.

Enjoyed another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. I think I have two more episodes left in this series. It's a fun show and I'm glad I watched from the beginning.

Finished up the second season of London Kills and I'm excited to start season three. The weaving of the plot lines is something I really like about this series. Looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. Really interested to see what happens with JP. I love his character and I'll be sad to see him go, if he does.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from X Out the Date, a novella that explores a couple reflecting on how they met before making a big commitment to each other.

Here's the miniblurb:

Preston Ayl and Elliot Newman are on the verge of making a strong commitment. Attending conferences on opposite ends of the country, the week away from each other is proving more difficult than either expects and they're crossing out the date until they're back together.

And a snippety peek…

One thirty a.m. rolled around, and Elliot still couldn't sleep. "Wild how much I miss having her next to me." He rolled to his side and punched the neighboring pillow then spooned up against it.

A shitty substitute for Preston.

He'd been lucky to meet her. Okay, the circumstances were off-the-chart weird. Elliot got tangled up in a fracas while playing hockey and he didn't have his gloves on. He'd sliced his finger open on a skate blade.

Alex dropped Elliot off at the emergency entrance of local ED then drove around to park.

Elliot's lips curved. "And he neglected to tell me his cousin worked there." After he'd been triaged, a nurse took him to a curtained area and told him to wait.

The physician assistant entered within ten minutes and Elliot kind of fell for her on the spot.

She looked up from the tablet she'd grabbed from the wall. "Elliot Newman?" Her head tilted to one side. "Normally, I'd shake your hand, but we'll skip that for now." Her gaze met his. "I'm PA Preston Ayl, and I'll be stitching your injury." She pulled a drawer open and retrieved a packet from inside.

Elliot blinked. "Did you say Ayl? Any relation to Alex?" Not exactly a common name.

She arched her brows. "Alex is my cousin. Did he do the honors?" She nodded toward the gauze-covered finger.

Elliot chuckled but didn't have a chance to answer because Alex poked his head around the curtain.

"Hey, it wasn't me. We're on the same team." He gave the PA's shoulder a squeeze. "Take good care of him, Pres. We've got a match next week."

Preston rolled her eyes but got ready to stitch up the wound. "Did anyone think to warn you about Alex? He thinks dangerous stunt is his middle name."

Elliot laughed. "Actually, Alex did the warning himself. Said to forget about trying to keep up with him." He barely felt the sting of the numbing agent she used.

Preston huffed out a breath. "Yeah, he should come with a warning label." She put four sutures in and bandaged his finger. "I learned not to follow Alex blindly after I fell out of the tree we were climbing and broke my arm."

Alex chimed in. "Yeah, she was a trooper. Pretty sure that's when she decided she wanted to be involved in the medical field." He paused a moment. "Hey, you two have something in common … aside from me, that is. Elliot works for a small medical equipment manufacturer in design and sales."

Preston arched her brows. "Pre-hospital, medical center, or primary care facility?" She put a piece of tape on the gauze to hold it in place.

Elliot rolled a shoulder. "All three. We make portable sharps containers and medical bags that clean easily to avoid cross contamination as our main lines." He didn't mention the disposable sheets they were testing right now.

Her eyes widened. "Are the bags the ones with the sealed mesh stuff?"

His lips twitched. "Uh, yeah. They're super easy to wipe down and there's no worry about stuff getting imbedded in the weave." He'd had a hand in creating that product line.

She did a slow nod. "Those bags are terrific."

Elliot resisted the urge to puff out his chest at the kudos.

After going over the instructions for care, she slid her gaze to Alex.

He held his hands up. "I know. I know. I won't make him practice until the stitches are removed."

Preston snorted. "I think you mean you won't let him practice." She gave Elliot a smile. "Seriously, you need to sit out for bit." She started gathering up the debris from her work.

Elliot grunted. "Not a problem. I'd rather not tempt fate and risk another injury." Unless he could see her again.

Alex must've read Elliot's mind. "Hey, Pres. Why don't you plan to make a house call and check those stitches in a day or two."

She narrowed her eyes. "Are you playing matchmaker?"

Alex smirked. "You know me better than that. I'm asking for purely selfish reasons."

Preston lifted her chin. "Ah, right. The big match you need Mr. Newman for."

Elliot winced. "Elliot, please. Not to be cliché, but Mr. Newman is my dad." He experimented and tried to wiggle his finger and didn't find a lot give, which impressed him. "Thanks for this. It's not restrictive yet I can't really move or bend it either." Took some skill to get it just right.

Preston flashed a smile. "That's good to hear. Thank you." She made a note on the screen of the tablet. "I'll send the nurse back in with your paperwork then you can head home." She started to leave the curtained area.

Alex waved. "Hey. House call? Will you do it?"

Elliot should protest, but he wouldn't mind seeing Preston again.

Her lips twisted in a wry smile. "Text me Elliot's contact information and if I'll try to arrange a time to drop by." She glanced in Elliot's direction. "If you're okay with this?"

Elliot nodded. "Sure. If it's no imposition."

Alex shook his head. "It's not."

Elliot tsked. "Dude, I'm pretty sure she can answer for herself."

Preston grinned. "It's not. I'll look forward to seeing you again." She waited a beat. "Hopefully without my weird family member this time." She gave a waggle-fingered wave to Alex and exited the space.

Elliot stared after her.

Alex leaned in. "FYI, she loves superhero movies."

This is such a fun story to write. Elliot and Preston are pretty angst free and I enjoy writing happy, fluffy stories sometimes.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: X Out the Date

Nothing like starting April with snow flurries and chilly weather. Prom weekend for the high schoolers ended up being very brisk. Brrrr.

Had a very busy work week but I made a ton of progress on a difficult edit. It's something kind of new for me and I'm thoroughly enjoying the project. Had a couple of great calls for some possible new work also. All in all a productive week.

Had a decent week of viewing television also. I'm more or less back on my regular schedule, which makes me happy.

Caught two episodes of Silent Witness. I'm very much liking the new season. Clarissa is fast becoming a favorite and they're not shoving the new guy in my face all the time. All in all, I'm still loving this show.

Finished up season twenty-three of Classic Who and started season twenty-four. I'd forgotten the weird way they morphed from Six to Seven. I actually might not have seen that one. Almost finished with the original run and then I have to decide if I'm going to start a rewatch of New Who. I might wait a while.

Watched two more episodes of Aliens in Alaska. I have one more to watch then it's on to something new. I might dive into something more space-related again. I'm not sure yet.

Enjoyed two more episodes of Muppets Now. I should have this finished up this week then I'll have to decide what to watch next. I might dive into the Marvelverse. I've been wanting to watch Hawkeye.

Caught two episodes of Harrow. Man, this season is a roller coaster. I have no clue what the hell is going on with Maxine but I'm not liking it. I love, love, love the kind of new dynamic with Fairley and I like the new assistant. I also enjoy the whole Daniel and Grace being unable to find their footing. Good stuff.

Watched an episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. I'll have this season finished up this week and should be ready to start season eight.

I started a new MasterClass with Neil deGrasse Tyson. I'm enjoying the way he explains things. Should be a very interesting class.

Finished the first season of Young Wallander and started the second. I gotta say I shouldn't have been surprised with how the first season ended but I was. That said, I loved the opening episode of season two. Kurt is a magnet for strange cases.

Enjoyed two episodes of Classic Rugrats. One of my favorites with Grandpa moving out followed by the legend of Satchmo made me really happy. One of the best things about the original show is how much grown-ups could enjoy the episodes right along with the little ones.

Caught two episodes of Chicago Med and, sadly, Will is beginning to annoy the crap out of me. Ethan is probably my favorite doctor even if he's a bit rigid sometimes. Not sure I like where they're taking April, but I'll hold judgment on that front for now.

Watched an episode of Snoopy in Space: The Search for Life and I'm down to having one more left. I'll have to decide what to watch next once I finish this series.

I started a new mystery, Loch Ness, and enjoyed the first episode. This one could go either way so I'm hoping it keeps my attention.

Also enjoyed another episode of Blue Heelers and liked it. I do not enjoy Monica but this one seemed to set up some stuff for the future so that might be fun to watch.

Began the Ready Room episodes for the second season of Star Trek: Discovery. Rather enjoyed the first one and I'll look forward to watching more.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from X Out the Date, a novella where the couple has to spend a week apart and they come to realize how much they want to take the next step in their relationship.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Preston Ayl and Elliot Newman are on the verge of making a strong commitment. Attending conferences on opposite ends of the country, the week away from each other is proving more difficult than either expects and they're crossing out the date until they're back together.

And a snippety peek…

Elliot glanced at his phone, expecting a call from Preston.

Alex rolled his eyes. "Dude, you've got it bad. You've only been apart a day or two and you're jonesing for her like a junkie." He leaned back and spread his arms out. "We're out, watching a match. Enjoy the freedom." He snagged a wing and dipped it ranch dressing.

Elliot cocked his head. "I already have freedom. Have I missed a hockey match? Or a practice?" He shook his head. "Preston doesn't try to shackle me." He loved having someone who had outside interests like he did.

Alex nodded. "True. And she never would. We're not built that way."

An accurate statement. The Ayls were very close-knit but also supportive of pursuing interests and doing their own thing. Elliot didn't have a point of reference for families like theirs. His consisted of his parents and a cat. No one else. Preston and Alex had relatives sprawling all over the state.

His phone pinged and he scooped it off the table. "That's Preston. I'm gonna take this outside."

Alex waved him off. "Yeah, yeah. I'll be out when the game's over."

Elliot elbowed his way through the crowd at the bar. "Preston? Hey, give me a sec." He made it to the door and exited out into the cold night air. "How did today's seminar go?"

She groaned. "It went okay. Our instructor was one of those types that think so highly of themselves they lose sight of the reason they're teaching the class."

Elliot winced. "Bleh. Rough day then." He shivered against a gust of wind. "At least tell me the weather is terrific. It's cold in Maine." Ducking between the bar and a bakery, he huddled against the building.

She chuckled. "High-eighties and sunny earlier. Now it's breezy and about seventy-five. Very comfortable." Her voice lowered. "I wish you were here."

He did, too. And not only for the spectacular climate. He missed her. A lot.

"Are you outside? It sounds windy."

He barely kept his teeth from chattering. "I am. Alex and I had dinner at a sports bar and were watching the hockey match."

Preston tsked. "Way more fun than the quick meal I grabbed on the way up to my room. We're doing a mock event in about thirty minutes. It'll be a late night for us."

He gave a nod. "At least it'll be warm." Unlike his location.

Alex exited the bar and Elliot waved him over. "Your cousin says hello."

Alex snorted. "I did not. But I am now." He shuddered. "Talk and walk, man. It's too cold to not be on skis or a board out here."

Preston laughed. "That's my cue to X out the date and let you go. Short day tomorrow. Text me when you're done with your client meeting."

Elliot agreed. "Will do. Love you."

Preston signed off. "Love you, too."

He pocketed his phone and jogged to catch up with Alex. They made a beeline for the hotel and headed for their respective rooms. Elliot turned the television on to the sports highlights but didn't pay much attention to the screen.

Instead, he pondered the next step with Preston. He wanted them to move in together. Except … they each needed space and neither of their current abodes had enough for both on a continuous basis.

She had a change of clothes and some toiletries at his apartment and he had the same at hers.

His lips twitched. "Poor Alex almost had a stroke when he recognized Preston's shoes sitting by the door." Not that there had been any meaning behind her leaving them there—she'd brought them over when they hiked one of the trails close to Elliot's apartment.

Or course, Alex promptly took credit for matching them up—once he got over the initial shock of not being informed immediately of the couple status.

Elliot rolled to his side. "What a night that was."

Preston had planned to stop by after her shift at the hospital to watch a movie. Elliot tried to get rid of Alex, but he wouldn't budge from the couch, claiming he couldn't possibly miss the end of the snowboarding competition. Elliot shook his head and considered sending Preston an advanced warning text.

By the time he had the message ready to send, she knocked on the door.

Elliot answered and gave her a quick side-eye when she entered.

Alex jumped up. "Presto? Whatever are you doing here?" He couldn't quite pull off the innocent act.

Preston narrowed her eyes. "Are we twelve again? No one has called me Presto since then."

Alex smirked. "You mean when you smashed Dougie's hand with the crochet mallet?" He shrugged. "You like me better than him so I can get away with it."

She arched a brow. "Don't bet on it, Alex." Her gaze met Elliot's. "Cat's out of the bag then?"

Elliot nodded. "He spotted your shoes."

Preston rolled her eyes. "Of course he did. He was with me when I bought them." She dropped her bag on the table then faced Alex. "You've had your thrilling moment of victory. Can Elliot and I go to dinner now?"

Alex gave her a wide grin. "Sure. As long as I can come along to chaperone." He waggled his eyebrows.

Preston tsked. "You're welcome to come along, but I don't plan to hump him in the middle of the restaurant." She flicked a glance toward Elliot. "What about you? Any grand ideas of getting hot and heavy between the appetizer and main course?"

Alex held up his hands. "Okay, okay. I get it. You can manage without me." He headed for the front door. "I'll take my leave and you two can enjoy your meal in peace." After twisting the knob, he shot Preston another smirk. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do."

Preston barked out a laugh. "Nothing like leaving the field wide open, Alex. There's not much you won't do."

He snickered. "I know." The door closed behind him.

Elliot shook his head. "I'm sorry about that, but he's your cousin."

Preston snorted. "True. Which means I'm stuck with him. You choose to be friends with him, though."

Elliot grasped her hips. "Yep. And I met you because he is my friend." His head lowered. "We should give him a pass … just this once."

Preston lifted her chin. "If you say so." Her lips meshed with his and Alex didn't get another thought from either of them the rest of the night.

I'm enjoying the concept of this story and showing the couple at a turning point where they evaluate their relationship from opposite ends of the country.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: X Out the Date

We're having unseasonably warm weather for January. The temperature hit seventy degrees today. I'm pretty much planning on having a blizzard during prom season and possibly during my daughter's graduation in May. Just saying.

I've had the unique experience of being project-free for a whole week. I can honestly say it's actually been kind of nice to have the downtime. It's good to catch up on mundane things like clearing my inbox and deleted items files.

Had a semi-decent week of television viewing. I finished up the episode of Frankie Drake and watched a new one. I really love this show.

Caught an episode of Midsomer Murders and finished out the twentieth series. I have a behind the scenes thing to watch then off to series twenty-one. Looking forward to starting it.

Finished the Sapphire and Steel series. I can honestly say the way ended surprised me but not in a bad way. The unique spin on how time functioned ended up being fun to watch.

Also caught the Three Doctors arc of Classic Who. Very interesting to go watch this one because I didn't get to watch during its original run.

Watched two more episodes of Gargoyles. Started the second season, which is a lot longer than I originally thought it was. I've also discovered I'm pretty sure I missed the entire third season of this show. New stuff!!

Started a new episode of Murdoch Mysteries and I'm enjoying it so far. I feel like fans are on borrowed time because sooner or later the shoe is going to drop on William and Miss Hart will be the one to wield it. Not sure how I feel about that, to be honest.

Finished up a Blue Heelers episode and started a new one. Still enjoy this show so much. I love getting a look at how law enforcement works in another country, even if it's fictionalized.

Finally, I've been waiting and waiting for a very long time for an old British show to make its way to the streaming services. It's finally here! I watched the first episode of Peak Practice and I can't wait to watch the episodes with one of my favorite actors. Of course, he doesn't show up until the final season and it's a solid bet I won't be able to wait to watch his episodes, but I'm trying to view in chronological order. We'll see what happens.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from X Out the Date, a novella that started with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Preston Ayl and Elliot Newman are on the verge of making a strong commitment. Attending conferences on opposite ends of the country, the week away from each other is proving more difficult than either expects and they're crossing out the date until they're back together.

And a snippety peek…

Preston flopped down on the bed in her room and groaned. "What a loooonnnnggg day." She kicked her shoes off and flexed her toes, something she always did after being on her feet for an extended period.

Too bad Elliot isn't here to provide one of his sexy foot rubs.

Her lips quirked. The man had magic in his fingers… even when one happened to be injured. She laughed when his ringtone sounded from the phone on the nightstand.

Rolling over to grab it, she swiped to answer. "Hey, I was just thinking about you." She sat up. "Wait… is everything all right? It's after midnight in Maine."

Elliot chuckled. "Things are fine here. Well, okay, the temperature is just shy of frozen tundra cold, but the lodge is terrific and the flight was good." He paused a moment. "I have company in the form of Alex for the duration."

Preston shook her head. "What's he doing in Maine? Wait, I don't need to know. By tomorrow morning, he'll have it blasted all over his social media." Tucking her feet under her thighs, she changed the subject. "I'd rather focus on how weird it'll be to not have you next to me tonight."

Elliot groaned. "I know. That's partly why I called. I couldn't sleep so I figured I'd at least say goodnight and see how your day went."

She settled back against the pillows. "Not bad. The flight got in on time and I spent the day on shuttles from the airport to the hotel to the conference venue at the university then over to meet and greet they held at the hospital." She sighed. "I'm still on eastern time so I'm exhausted. How did your day go? Did you take the team from Atlas Health to dinner?"

Elliot filled her in. He had taken the group to dinner and did a soft pitch on the new product line. He'd meet with the full panel the following day and provide an in-depth demonstration and conduct a question and answer session for the employees.

Preston yawned and snagged the notebook on the nightstand. "Okay, I'm calling it a night. I've got my pen and I'm Xing out the date. One down, too many to go until we're in the same time zone."

A scratching sound came from Elliot's end of the line. "I marked my calendar too. I'll talk to you soon. Love you."

Preston signed off. "I love you too. 'Night, Elliot."

I'm not quite sure where this story is going to end up but I love the challenge of having my characters in two different places.

That's it for this week. Happy reading.

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: X Out the Date

Ugh, the rain continues and it's making the outdoors feel like a sauna. I'm not against saunas but, ugh, I'd rather not have one 24 / 7. Besides… you can't run around outside with only a towel on. Okay, I guess it's not impossible, but I won't be doing it anytime soon. LOL

I had a friend recommend Will for my viewing pleasure. I haven't started it yet, but I'll give it a go. She's in love with everything about the show.

Have to play catch up again on my Syfy Friday night shows. I hate being behind and it sucks that on Demand and the Syfy app won't show the latest episode immediately. I have a lot of growly, snarly words about that topic.

Great news! Wynonna Earp is renewed for season three. I'm soooo happy we'll have more demon-killing gun action in the town of Purgatory. Woo!

Lots of terrific trailer action coming from SDCC. I'm looking forward to The Defenders if only for the awesome snark potential.

The Last Ship's new trailer is making me very impatient for the season to start already. Less than a month away, but still feels way too long.

Also… the final episodes of Teen Wolf start next week and I'm excited to see how the series ends.

One final note… I'm actually excited for Doctor Who again! Nothing against Moffat, he's written a few of my very favorite episodes but, ugh, he almost ruined the series for me. The entire last season just rubbed me wrong. I wish him nothing but the best with whatever he's involved in from here on out.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from X Out the Date, a novella that got a start with the two-word prompt, "Don't stop".

Here's the mini-blurb:

Preston Ayl and Elliot Newman are on the verge of making a strong commitment. Attending conferences on opposite ends of the country, the week away from each other is proving more difficult than either expects and they're crossing out the date until they're back together.

And a snippety peek…

Elliot took his seat on the plane after stowing his carryon in the overhead bin. He settled in and leaned back, thinking to grab some extra sleep on the somewhat short flight. A smack on his shoulder had his eyes popping open.

Alex Ayl, Preston's cousin, wore a sly smirk. "Dude. Don't tell me you're going to Maine, too." He dropped down next to Elliot. "Man, that's awesome. I'll have someone to hang with."

Elliot grinned. "Are you hawking more sporting goods?" Alex had several endorsement contracts, including clothing and equipment.

Alex shook his head. "Not this time. I'm headed to a small start-up company that wants some input on a new design. If I like what I see, I have a chance to invest, too." He kicked back in his seat. "Sometimes it's good to be me." His head lolled sideways and he shot Elliot a glance. "You leave your better half behind?"

Elliot laughed. "No, actually. She's headed to the west coast for a weeklong conference." He frowned. "I wouldn't have minded going with her. Helluva lot warmer in California than Maine." Plus, they could take advantage of the beaches, which they currently couldn't do in midwinter.

Alex snorted. "Man, I'd be out of a job if we didn't have these glorious cold winters." He rubbed his hands together.

A fine point. Alex lived for any activity done in the cold. Boarding, skiing, sledding, skating. If it could be accomplished in frigid temperatures with powder or ice, Alex showed up.

Elliot's lips twisted in a smile. "I doubt you'd be out of work for long. Something tells me you'd make the transition from Mr. Freeze to Heatmeister in quick order."

Alex quirked a brow. "You mean like surfing and shit? No way, man. That's your gig. The only cold weather thing you do is play hockey." He gave Elliot a pointed look. "And that's only when my cousin lets you come out to play."

Elliot smashed Alex's theory. "Man, it's not like she's got me shackled to the bed." He sat back and waited for the response.

Alex made a gagging sound. "Aw, dude, not a visual I needed right now."

Elliot crossed his arms over his chest and leaned his head back again. "Then shut up and let me get a nap in."

I'm hoping it's going to be fun to write the absence makes the heart grow fonder scenario. So far, it's pretty great.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: X Out the Date

April 5, 2015

Happy Easter to those who celebrate. Happy chocolate overload day to those who don't.

So… finale for The Walking Dead last week? AWESOME! My middle kid and I stayed up spinning random theories for a good, long time after the episode ended.

The Flash and Arrow have my brain working overtime, too. I've missed television that makes me stay engaged after the show ends. Keep finding myself getting snared with 'Oh! How cool would it be if [insert random plot bomb here] happens. I can sort of say the same about Agents of SHIELD, but not to the same extent. I did kind of love how the last episode ended though.

Bitten only has one episode left and I can't wait to watch!! Really loving the second season and looking forward to watching on Syfy in a few weeks. So surprised and kind of thrilled to see a character pop back up. The guy is sooo good and I enjoy his work.

And last but not least regarding TV, The Last Ship has it's summer air date. June is looking up. :D

Tonight's post is from X Out the Date, a novella where my couple is on the threshold of taking their relationship further.

Here's the tagline:

Preston Ayl and Elliot Newman are on the verge of making a strong commitment. Attending conferences on opposite ends of the country, the week away from each other is proving more difficult than either expects and they're crossing out the date until they're back together.

And a snippety peek…

Preston Ayl checked her schedule for the fourth time. "God, I wish the conference didn't have so many required courses." A full freaking week, from Sunday to late Saturday night.

Elliot Newman shot her a quick glance. "At least you'll be somewhere sunny and warm. I'm stuck heading New England in the middle of winter." His lips twitched. "Of course if I close this sale, it'll be worth freezing my ass off." He flipped the turn signal on and pulled into the long-term parking area.

Preston bit back a sigh. The classes didn't bother her, being away from Elliot did. Six months together and they hadn't had a reason to test their burgeoning relationship. She didn't give much credence to the whole absence made the heart grow fonder, but maybe the week apart would be good. Elliot mentioned moving in together and she her gut jumped with excitement over the idea. But her brain kicked in and put on the brakes.

Stupid brain.

Elliot nudged her shoulder before tucking a hank of hair behind her ear. "You're overthinking again. Cut it out." He turned off the ignition and faced her. "There's no rush, we're not in a hurry."

Preston smiled. Leave it to Elliot to know exactly what she had on her mind. He had an uncanny ability to read her thoughts.

Gathering up her bag, she leaned in close. "You're right." She gave him a quick, hard kiss. "But… I'm going to miss having you next to me in bed this week."

Reaching for the door handle, she gasped when he caught her face in his hands, slanted his mouth over hers, and gave her a thorough kiss. One leaving her breathless and hungry for more.

His pressed his forehead against hers. "And I'm going to miss waking up to your warm, welcoming heat, too." Another lingering lip-lock. "But it's only a week. And we'll talk every night, right?"

She eased away and met his gaze. "Absolutely. I'll be X-ing out the days after our nightly calls." A little shiver slid down her spine. "I'm really looking forward to hearing your voice every night."

Elliot grinned. "Maybe we'll try some video chats, too." His voice took on a sexy edge. "That could be fun."

When he waggled his eyebrows, Preston laughed, loving his humor. She angled toward the door, cracked it open, and braced for the cold chill in the air. Elliot popped the trunk and exited the car, too. Meeting her at the rear of the vehicle, he grabbed their bags and handed hers over.

She shouldered the carry-on then laced their fingers together. "I'm glad you suggested sending my luggage ahead. Should make getting through security less of a hassle."

Elliot flashed a smile. "And easier to hop the shuttle to departures." The big van pulled up to the covered kiosk and opened its doors.

Preston preceded Elliot and took the first open seat. He dropped down beside her and settled back, wrapping an arm around her. The ride didn't last long, and when the van dropped them off, she turned to Elliot, leaning in for one last quick kiss before going their separate ways. She headed to get checked through security and Elliot strolled toward a coffee shop to kill a couple of hours before he needed to catch his flight.

After setting her stuff on the conveyor, she glanced back over her shoulder. Elliot gave her one last wave before taking a place in line.

Preston slowly made it through the security check and wandered toward her gate. She had at least thirty minutes before she could board and then a long flight ahead of her. Dragging out a notebook, one she should save for her continuing education classes, she started a list—Fun things to do on a video chat.

Damn Elliot for planting that idea in her head.

Not sure exactly how this one is going to go, but I'm excited to find out. LOL

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin