Sunday Snippet: Midnight Cruise

Our fall-like weather remained with us … to the point we had record lows. I have to laugh a little because it's like a yoyo swinging up and down with record temperatures in both directions. It's nuts.

Had a very solid work week. Possible new projects that I'm excited about and finishing up a big one, which feels really good.

Not a bad week for viewing television. I didn't make it through two times like last week but had almost a full rotation of the shows I normally watch.

Enjoyed another Agatha Raisin episode. I'm settling in with this cast of characters and I love the village vibe. Looking forward to more episodes.

Started a new Silent Witness two-parter and I'm really interested in where this one goes and what's going on at the Lyle. The second half should be terrific.

Caught the finale for season two of Death in Paradise. I'm a little sad because the season three opener is obviously the loss of one of the main characters. But I'm excited to start in with a new character.

Watched another Fantasy Island episode and thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm also happy to report Roark and Javier seem to be on better footing and the angst factor did not get amped to ten or above. A pleasant surprise. The whole deal with Ruby should be interesting to watch unfold. Not sure how I want things to go there.

Enjoyed another episode of The Batman. This one featured Firefly and I kind of loved the Bruce and Alfred banter in this episode.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats and loved it. One part had the babies journeying to the basement ala Indiana Jones style. The second one had the full set of McNultys for a birthday party. So much fun.

Started another episode of VIP but didn't make it all the way through. Too many interruptions to finish, but I hope to get the rest watched today.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Midnight Cruise, a holiday-themed novella for New Year's Eve.

Here's the miniblurb:

Once upon a time, Bessie Marshall met Cesar Wright and they had a glorious fling for the week of spring break their senior year of college. Fast forward five years and Cesar is back in his hometown to launch a new business venture and he wants his friends to help him make a test run on New Year's Eve. Imagine his shock when he bumps into Bessie—who moved to the riverfront city two years after graduation—and she wants nothing to do with him, which shouldn't surprise him considering he left her without so much as a good-bye.

And a snippety peek…

Bessie tilted her head to one side. "You bought a riverboat?" Why not lease until he knew if his idea would work?

Cesar shrugged. "Well, yeah. I can't create a floating dinner club without one." He settled across from her at the conference table.

Bessie huffed out a breath and shook her head. "Okay, true. But most normal people don't have the cash on hand to just buy a boat. Seriously. And you drop, what?" She did a quick mental calculation. "Seven figures? Like it's nothing." She really had no clue what that would even be like.

Cesar frowned. "No, not like it's nothing. It's an investment. One I'll make pay off within two years if all goes to plan." He straightened. "What's your problem with this?"

Bessie wet her lower lip, stalling for time. Because she didn't know how to answer. She knew nothing about Cesar Wright. Not really. And her brain struggled to mesh the low-key flip-flop and board shorts guy she'd spent the most incredible week of her life with and the mega-wealthy, impeccably dressed man sitting across from her. But she failed spectacularly because the incredible things they'd done together kept flashing through her mind.

Exhaling slowly, she finally responded. "Nothing really. Your idea is something I could market in my sleep, but I'm not sure working with you is a good plan. There's no guarantee we'd work well together. What makes you think we would?" She truly had no clue.

Cesar blinked. "Tell me you're not serious. Have you forgotten we spent a week together? What makes you think we'd have any trouble getting this project off the ground?" He folded his arms over his chest.

Bessie made a garbled choking sound. "I don't know, Cesar. Possibly because you don't know the first thing about me on a professional level. And it may be because this project has nothing to do with fucking each other, which is basically all we did for the duration of our time together." Okay, not completely true, but geez, seven days of sun, sand, and sex—with occasional meal breaks—didn't exactly qualify him to judge her work ethic or her anything five years later.

The man had no idea what her life looked like … or how badly he'd bruised her heart.

Cesar's lips twisted in a wry grin. "You still shoot straight and speak your mind. That hasn't changed." He relaxed his stance, leaning forward and placing his forearms on the table. "But you've made your point. So, let's come at this from a strictly professional perspective. Your work speaks for itself. You've managed to land a third of your team's new clients in the three years you've been with Thrust Marketing. Better still, you've worked with five difficult, ready-to-run accounts and retained four. The fifth wasn't worth the time and effort, but the company has nothing but great things to say about you." He sat back. "And that's why you're perfect for this project. I won't believe our personal history will keep you from being the consummate professional I know you are." He met and held her gaze. "Am I wrong?"

Bessie opened her mouth then slowly closed it because he'd done his homework. And, well, he'd pretty much rendered her speechless.

This story is in the beginning stages, but I'm so pleased with how it's coming together. Bessie is a fun character and Cesar is going to learn the art of groveling.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Meet Me by the Mistletoe

Ohio had record high temperatures this past week, but the weekend has brought some fall-like weather. I'm looking forward to seeing the leaves change even if it seems like the colors are less vibrant than they used to be.

Juggled several work projects and I'm in the final stages of two and starting a couple of small new ones. I'm liking the mix of things I'm currently working on. It's fun to stretch my wings sometimes.

Had a solid week of viewing, which seems weird because I did have a lot of work stuff to get done.

I started a new to me series with Agatha Raisin and thoroughly enjoyed the first two episodes. I think I'm going to like this one!

I finished up season two of Suspects and, wow, the last episode kind of packed a punch. I'll have to wait to see if more episodes become available on the streamer I use. I'm not quite ready to sign up for yet another one to see the remaining seasons.

Caught the first episode of Peak Practice season ten. Also started the second episode but got a little distracted. I might end up skipping a few because I really don't care about Andrew and his affair.

Watched a Silent Witness two-parter that dived into the Troubles and thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns.

Forgot to include Battlestar Galactica in last week's recap. Watched "Captain's Hand," which is one of my favorite episodes. This week we watched "Downloaded," which is kind of the beginning of the end to a promising series. With twenty years of hindsight, I can honestly say I didn't need or want to know that much about the cylons.

Enjoyed two episodes of Death in Paradise. I loved the hurricane episode. Only Richard would think it's just a little wind. One more episode for season two and then it's time for a changing of the guard.

Caught two episodes of Fantasy Island. I'll admit, I'm on the fence with Roark and Javier. I'm kind of down with the building of the friendship and letting Javier all Elena out for trying to protect Ruby. The thing is … he's not wrong, but he should also know Elena might have been down this road before and she almost always has information she can't share, which is kind of hinted at when Ruby more or less forgets about Mel. What's next? She forgets her kids? So … I rather love that this thread looks like it will be spun out to a thin tether. Also makes me wonder what's in store with Ruby's tattoo.

Watched two more episodes of The Batman. ManBat and Victor Frieze were the bad guys for these two. I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed this show the first run through.

Enjoyed two episodes of Classic Rugrats. Finally had another one with Susie, which makes me happy. Also forgot how much fun it was to have Chuckie act like Angelica for a day.

Started a rewatch of VIP. Sometimes it's so much fun to go back to shows from the late nineties and early aughts and enjoy the creative license and sheer escapism they provide.

Also started another new to me series with My Life Is Murder. I'm not quite finished with the episode, but I'm thoroughly enjoying it so far!

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Meet Me by the Mistletoe, a holiday-themed novella featuring the trio from Merry and Bright.

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…

Frazier stood outside Presley's door and tilted his head. "What the hell?" He pulled the note from its spot between the jamb and the hard oak surface.

Gunnar peered over Fraz's shoulder. "Gunnar, text me when you get this." He unlocked his phone and shot off a quick message. "Fraz got done early. We're at your place."

Fraz's eyebrows furrowed. "Wonder why she's not here." She did ask them to meet her.

Gunnar's phone chimed. "She says, 'Check inside the door and bring the bags. Then meet me by the mistletoe at 1717 Wemberly Place.'" Gunnar shot Fraz a sideways glance. "Wemberly? That's a residential street like three blocks over." He narrowed his gaze.

Fraz nodded. "Yeah, brownstones and those big mansions turned into four and five-unit condos." He arched his brows. "Weird she wants to meet us there, right?" He slid his key to Presley's apartment in the lock and popped the door open.

Sure enough, two duffel bags sat just inside the door. Fraz grabbed Gunnar's and handed it over then picked the other one up. They could walk from here … but some instinct told Fraz they should take Gunnar's jeep.

Fraz lifted his chin. "Let's leave my car here and take yours." He started for the SUV.

Gunnar grunted. "You really have no idea what's going on?" He unlocked the vehicle and slid behind the wheel.

Fraz shook his head. "I don't. But the bags suggest we're either staying or going somewhere. Might as well have a car, just in case." He sent Presley a text. "On our way. Be there in five." Pocketing his phone, his brain spun with questions.

Gunnar stopped at a light. "Think she knows about our surprise?" He patted his jacket pocket.

Frazier rolled a shoulder. "If she does, it's because you talk in your sleep." His lips twitched.

Gunnar did not talk in his sleep.

Gunnar snorted. "Yeah, right. Dude, you're the one who can't keep your yap shut." He gave Frazier a pointed look.

Frazier's face flushed. "In my defense, I didn't say anything. I sent a text to our group chat instead of to you. And we still managed to surprise her because she didn't know what type of cake we were getting for her birthday." Geez, send one wrong text and never live it down.

Gunnar parked on the street and cut the engine. "1717. Two houses up. Looks like the porch light is on." He peered through the windshield.

Frazier narrowed his gaze. "And it looks like there's a light on inside. Guess we should find out what's going on." He opened the door and grinned when Presley waved through a downstairs window.

Gunnar fell into step beside Frazier, and they made their way to a three-story brownstone that had seen better days. Peeling paint on the stoop and door along with a mailbox tilted sideways and the house numbers going in three different directions greeted them when they walked up the steps. Gunnar angled his head, a question in his gaze.

Frazier shrugged. "Let's knock and see what happens…"

I have a lot of love for this trio. It's fun to write fluffy fiction for the holiday season.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Make Me

September has ushered in yo-yo weather. We had record low overnight temperatures this past week and we're supposed to end up with record high temperatures this week. My sinuses are not happy right now.

I'm still finishing up the copy edit for the extended project and should have it ready this week. I'm looking forward to starting a new project in the next week or so. September is shaping up to be a busy month and that makes me happy.

Didn't have a bad week of viewing. I got a lot of episodes in and finished up a series, which means I get to start a new one this week. I have no idea what that will be yet, but probably a mystery.

I caught two episodes of Death in Paradise. One I remember seeing before and the other new to me. This is why I love going back and watching in chronological order.

Also watched two episodes of Fantasy Island. Enjoyed both for the fantasy aspect. Did not enjoy the angst factor. As usual, you take a perfectly good couple and break them up for a stupid reason. Depending on how the next few episodes go, I'm probably done with this show.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Batman. Bane and Catwoman were introduced and the Catwoman episode was a lot of fun. The Bane episode wasn't bad either.

Caught two episodes of Classic Rugrats. The four vignettes were all ones I'd remembered and pretty fun to watch again.

Finished up the Agatha Christie Hour and enjoyed the final episode. I love mistaken identity hijinks and this episode had a splashy party to boot. So much fun.

Caught the second half of Suspects and thoroughly enjoyed watching the team unravel the tangled web of who did it. Also kind of great to get some insight into the characters' personal lives.

Finally watched the season nine finale of Peak Practice. It was as hard as I thought it would be. I'm not looking forward to Andrew's personal life being a main focus of season ten, but I'll still be watching.

Finished the second half of Silent Witness. This one ended up being very twisty and I like that. Looking forward to the next two-parter. Might get more insight into Jack's character.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Make Me, a novella that brings a couple together after a tragic loss.

Here's the miniblurb:

Adri Leonard and Moses Nichols train and manage recruits for a private security firm. When Adri loses a team in the field, she refuses to train a new group. Moses has to get her back on board because they need a support team ASAP for a mission-critical operation and he's not above using their long-standing personal connection to make it happen.

And a snippety peek…

Moses charged into the training room. "Adri, what the hell is this?" He flipped through the roster of names. "You can't trash an entire class on their first day." This group had the basics down, most with experience in either law enforcement or spec ops in the military.

Adri's shoulders went rigid, but she grabbed a carafe of coffee and started filling her travel mug. "Pretty sure I just did." She ran out halfway through filling her container and huffed out a breath.

Moses clenched his jaw. "Look, you know we've got seventeen active teams in the field, and I've got five staffed with support specialists. That means a dozen teams are twisting in the wind without crucial operating assistance." He shuffled the pages again. "We've got mission-critical operations, one in particular, that need trained teams. They're sitting ducks until they get them." He should not have to make this point. "And we'll be fucked if we end up with another call out in the next two weeks."

Adri angled her head around. "We're already fucked." She moved to the next carafe and swirled it, making sure it had liquid inside. "Bring in the next group."

Moses tsked. "No one in the next group has any law enforcement or military background. They're starting at ground zero." And there's not enough time to bring them all up to speed.

Adri turned to face him. "Then they start at ground zero. Because the previous group is done." She jabbed her finger into the files he held. "It says so right there on the top page. Maybe you should read it again." She screwed the lid on her cup and headed for the door.

Moses did a quick five count. "Adri. This is not a debate." He set the files aside and started to follow her.

Her obstinance couldn't stand—no matter how long they'd been friends and colleagues.

She whirled around and stalked toward him. "Well, Moses, I'm the instructor. The only one you have." Standing toe-to-toe with him, she snarled. "If I say we start over, we start over. I will not, not send another team out that isn't ready." She jabbed a finger into his shoulder and her gaze dared him to defy her decision.

He almost wished he didn't have to test her will. Almost. Because he understood the drama now. Too bad they didn't have the luxury of playing things safe right now.

He huffed out a breath. "That's what this is about then. It's not about the new class." He stared her down, pushing hard. "It's the one we lost." He clocked the moment he hit home when her gaze wavered, only for a moment, but enough to prove him right.

If possible, she got even closer before she quietly challenged him. "Careful. You're treading water in dangerous territory." The words rasped from her throat.

Her proximity suggested violence if he didn't bow to her demand. And, frankly, he would almost welcome a throw down if only to strip away the bullshit façade and get her to deal with her grief over losing an entire team in the field.

He stood his ground. "Step back. Now." If she refused, he'd have to resort to unfair tactics.

Her gaze went hard. "Make me." Her tone almost begged him to retaliate.

His eyes narrowed and he pondered the best way to handle this situation. Then he reached out and hauled her against his chest, crushing her mouth under his. He swallowed her startled gasp and drew the kiss out, sliding his tongue past her lips to brand the inside of her mouth. Her travel mug hit the floor and her hands fisted in his shirt, twisting the fabric. Her head angled to the side, deepening the embrace with her heated response.

When the lip-lock ended, Adri blinked and ran her thumb over her lower lip. "Wow. What the hell was that about?" Her eyes were dazed, and she smoothed her hands over her arms.

Moses grunted. "I think you know, Adri. From day one, you set a goal to push my boundaries. And I've let you get away with it. But you shot across the line when you challenged me to make you step back." His voice softened. "Sounded damn close to the double dawg dare you dropped at my feet the first night we met. What did you say then? Do you remember?" He wouldn't forget her words any time soon.

Adri glanced down. "Something like if I ever cross the line, a good, swift kick in the ass will usually get me back on track." She looked back up, a note of contrition in her eyes.

Moses did a slow nod. "Right. But, instead of kicking your ass, I went with my gut and opted for the kiss instead." And he maybe should've thought that idea through a little more.

Because, damn, he could barely think about anything else now.

Adri exhaled a shaky breath. "Yeah, well, you might have made the right call there." A pained laugh bubbled out. "Although, I'm not sure where we go from here." She shook her head and bent down to pick up her mug.

Moses waited until she got to her feet before speaking. "Let's start with reviewing the applicants again." He gentled his tone. "If there are any you truly feel can't make it through the program, we'll set them aside and bring them in with a later class." He reached for the files.

Adri put her hand on his. "You're asking me to put their lives on the line. I'm not sure I can do that … again." She squeezed his fingers. "The weight of that responsibility sits on my chest so hard it hurts to breathe sometimes." Her voice wobbled but she kept her emotions in check.

Moses cupped her face. "I know. I do. This isn't easy. But … let's think about how many additional lives could be lost if we don't get the support out there where it's needed." His thumb brushed over her cheek. "Won't that add to the weight you're already carrying?"

She swallowed hard and gave a nod. "When you put things that way, yeah, probably." Inhaling deeply, she lifted her chin. "Okay. Let's review the candidates and see what I have to work with." Turning away, she pulled a chair out and settled at a table.

Moses took a seat across from her and opened the first file. For now, he'd get her through this hurdle and back on target.

After that … he'd confront his actions and what they meant for the future.

Writing characters that push each other's buttons is so much fun. Adri and Moses are a great team, but they definitely come at things from very different places.

 

That's if for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Lucky Seven

Wow, August kind of flew by. I'm always amazed how fast the week slips away, which probably means I need to go outside and get some grounding time in. I'm going to blink, and it'll be the holiday season. Just saying. Maybe I'll moon watch this week with the blue supermoon happening.

Had a busy work week. I'm finishing up an extended project and working on a new manuscript copy edit. Also gearing up for a new developmental edit and a new manuscript assessment in September. Looking forward to working on new books in these two series.

Had a decent week of viewing television. I still haven't watched the final episode of Peak Practice season nine. I needed good vibes this week and didn't want anything to bum my mojo.

I actually caught two episodes of Suspects. I finished out the first season and started season two. The second season is four episodes but they're both two-parters. Looking forward to seeing what happens. I'm a bit bummed that I can't watch all five seasons of this show … unless they become available on the streamer I'm currently using.

Finished the first season of Cannes Confidential. My choice for the big bad was correct and that makes me happy. I'm so hoping there will be a second season of this show.

Caught the second half of Silent Witness's two-parter. Ended up enjoying the twists this one took. A great cast of guest stars really added to the storyline.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise. This show makes me happy, which might seem weird because it's always about a murder. The cast is amazing and that's why I love it.

I'm on the fence with Fantasy Island. I enjoyed the episode but I'm not here for having angst solely for the sake of having angst. No thanks. We'll see how the season ends.

Finally continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica. "Sacrifices" ended up being such an interesting episode even if it shortchanged a couple of characters. One of the critiques I have about this show is not digging into the storylines when they should have. The previously on Battlestar Galactica does a lot of heavy lifting in seasons two through four and it's not necessarily a good thing.

Watched another episode of The Batman. This one introduced Penguin and I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed this episode.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats. Aunt Miriam made another appearance as did the McNulty's.

Restarted the Agatha Christie Hour and enjoyed the episode. I have one episode left in this series and then I'll have to decide if I want to dive into another Christie series or find something new.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Lucky Seven, a novella that brings a couple together after they've overindulged at a work function.

Here's the miniblurb:

Daisy and Shae work for the same company and they end up overindulging at a corporate casino night, waking up next to each other the following morning. What starts as an awkward one-night stand turns into something neither expects, or is really looking for.

And a snippety peek…

Daisy shook Shae's hand with a twitchy nervous feeling fluttering in her stomach. "Glad you agree." She snagged a dumpling from her plate and dipped it in sauce.

Shae went back to his lo mein after a quick nod.

Daisy had some reservations about getting involved with Shae. He'd dated a friend of her dorm roommate their freshman year and pulled a dickhead move, letting the friend catch him in bed with someone else. Daisy didn't want a broken heart, but she did want the incredible sex.

We can keep this casual, right?

Okay, she'd have a harder time than he would, but she would not fall for him. Nope. No way. Shae would scratch a very particular itch for her and eventually go off on his merry way … one floor down and two corridors over at the office.

Shit. Doubt reared its ugly head. There were reasons people who worked together were discouraged from fraternization.

Shae cleared his throat. "If I eat any more, I'll explode." He swept his hand above the food. "Can I help put this away? You'll have plenty of leftovers." His gaze met hers.

Daisy blinked and nodded. "Uh, sure." She got to her feet and started closing the boxes.

Shae helped and gathered the plates and glasses. Daisy carried the containers and stowed them in her refrigerator. Shae followed and set the dishes in the sink. Daisy did a quick rinse and opened the dishwasher, putting the items inside. She closed the door and a ball of nervous tension rolled in her gut, but when Shae grasped her hips from behind and nuzzled her neck the pressure eased and blossomed into hot anticipation.

She turned and faced him, hooking her fingers in the beltloops of his jeans. His hands cupped her face and his mouth slanted over hers. Daisy swallowed a groan, her bones going soft and mushy. The man had kissing down to an art form, and she wanted the only ticket to the gallery.

Shae eased away from her lips, his breath feathering along her jawline and up to her ear. "Can I stay for a while?" His teeth caught her lobe and gently bit down.

A rush of heat swirled through her, and she nodded. "You'd better." Her hand worked between them, and she palmed the hard ridge in his pants. "Or you'll have a very uncomfortable drive home." A bolt of something indefinable went through her when his eyes closed, and he shuddered.

Grasping his palm, she led him through the living room to her bedroom and stopped at the edge of the mattress. Shae waited, his thumb making lazy circles on the top of her hand. Daisy let go of him and inched her fingers up under the hem of his shirt working the fabric up a little at a time. She leaned in and licked a trail from his ribs to his sternum before lifting the garment up and over his head.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, she unbuttoned his jeans and slid the zipper down, then pushed the pants and his knit boxers down past his hips. His erection bobbed up and down when he shuffled his feet from the legs. Her mouth watered and she cupped his ass, drawing him toward her then engulfed the tip of his shaft with her lips, sucking hard.

Shae groaned. "Fuuuccckkk." His fingers threaded through her hair and his breath hissed out between his teeth.

Daisy gave a low hum of satisfaction, enjoying his response.

I could get used to this…

This story is so much fun. I love writing a couple that fights an attraction but can't stay away from each other.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Lucky Man

Had a very busy week with work projects and family stuff. I'm kind of exhausted but not in a bad way. My sleep schedule is somewhat all over the map and that doesn't help. Insomnia is a definite pain in the butt.

I had a pretty solid week of viewing television. I got another full round of shows in and might be adding one or two in the next week.

I picked back up with Suspects and enjoyed the episode. This show is a little chaotic and I like that. I also rather like the characters.

Caught another episode of Cannes Confidential and thoroughly enjoyed it. I have one episode left and I'm not ready for the season to end. I truly hope there's more to come from this show. It's so good!

Watched the penultimate episode of Peak Practice season nine. I'm bracing for impact for the finale. Then it's on to season ten!

Started a new two-parter of Silent Witness. Very interesting episode and I'm not sure where part two is going to go. This isn't a bad thing.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. This is such a fun show even if there's always a murder to solve.

Caught another episode of Fantasy Island and, yep, my biggest pet peeve happened. Take a couple and tear them apart for stupid reasons. I'll finish out the season and see what happens, but I'm cranky now and that probably means I won't watch anything else if it has another season.

Started a rewatch of The Batman. I rather liked this series. I might also be able to finish my rewatch of Batman: The Animated Series. For whatever reason, it seems to be available again.

Watched another Classic Rugrats episode with two eps I'd forgotten about. Season five seems to have quite a few of those.

Missed watching Battlestar Galactica this week. My viewing partner had a family commitment and we're picking up again this week.

That's it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Lucky Man, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the miniblurb:

Brent Allison thinks his best friend Peter is a lucky man. He's got a great life and a beautiful woman, Sonja Waters. When Pete and Sonja break up, Brent feels bad for his friend but less guilty for being attracted to Sonja. But when Peter dies in an accident several months later and Brent bumps into Sonja while going through Pete's belongings, the guilt comes roaring back and Sonja finally understands why Brent always kept his distance during her relationship with Peter.

And a snippety peek…

Brent Allison gaped with his mouth hanging open. "What the hell are you thinking, Pete? Sonja's the best thing that ever happened to you." Truer words couldn't be said.

Peter Norris lifted one shoulder. "Yeah, man. I get that. I do." He leaned back in the booth, folding his arms across his chest. "But we need some time apart. I mean, we dated all through college and since graduation and moving in together, we've been struggling to find a happy place." His mouth twisted in a wry smirk.

Brent narrowed his gaze. "You're an idiot. You've got someone else on the hook, don't you? That sexy ED nurse? The one that drops in all the time when you're not busy taking CT scans." Pete mentioned the emergency department nurses frequently, but zeroed in on the one that couldn't seem to stay away from him.

Pete cocked his head. "Maybe. I don't know if I have her on the hook, but we're having coffee before our next shift." He spread his hands out. "We'll see where it goes."

Brent shook his head. "Are you moving out? Is Sonja? How's this going to work?" His brain spun with too many emotions to process.

The main one being guilt … because Brent would give his left nut to have a woman like Sonja. She loved crunching data, just like Brent did. The biggest difference? She had a degree in computer science. Brent learned analytics in the navy. And now he wouldn't be able to get his geek-speak fix from her anymore.

Pete snapped his fingers. "Dude. You totally zoned there. Yeah, I'm moving out for now. A rad tech I work with needs a roommate. We're on opposite schedules so we'll never see each other." His head bobbed up and down. "Sonja's gonna keep the apartment. She makes more than enough to cover rent." His fingers drummed a staccato rhythm on the table.

Brent grunted. "Sounds like you're set then." He mustered some support for Pete. "Gonna need help moving?" Pete didn't travel light, unlike Brent.

Being in the navy taught him to be ready on the fly. And his current consulting gig meant he didn't stay in one place for long. His apartment had the barest of essentials.

A wide grin spread across Pete's face. "Thought you'd never ask. Yeah, man. If you're not busy this weekend, I'll be moving the heavy stuff."

Brent lifted his chin. "I'll be available. What should I expect from Sonja?" Pete rarely read the room, usually because he did his level best to be the center of attention, so he didn't have to.

But surely, he wouldn't suck Brent into a tense situation.

Pete sobered. "She probably won't be there. Going on some work retreat. Timing's kind of perfect." He picked up his mug of coffee. "Don't get me wrong. She's okay with me moving out and everything. But it'll be easier to get in and out if it's just you and me."

Brent couldn't argue the point, even if he'd like to decide for himself whether Sonja came down on the being cool with the breakup side or not.

He gave a nod. "What time did you want to get started…"

This story is just getting started, but I'm excited about where it's going. Brent and Sonja have a few hurdles to leap over but they'll figure everything out.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Lost and Found

I sometimes wonder if time is speeding up. The week flew by. Then again, I have multiple work projects going right now and they're all at different stages.

Had a decent week of television viewing. Not quite as heavy as last week but I got through a full round of my current shows.

Actually started and ended the week with Classic Rugrats. I'm currently watching season five and it's weirdly missing Susie Carmichael. Maybe there's more of her in the later episodes.

Finished up the second season of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Ended up fairly pleased with the resolution of Jean's stalker. Very glad and hopeful we don't have to see more of her.

Caught another episode of Cannes Confidential. I seriously love this show. The cast is amazing and the chemistry with all of them is terrific. I have a very sneaky suspicion one of the main characters is going to be a bad guy and I'm actually kind of here for that if it happens.

Watched another episode of Peak Practice. I have two left in season nine and it's going to be kind of heartbreaking because I know what's coming. Also, Andrew is seriously annoying right now and I'm not sure if he'll improve or not.

Continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Scar." This is another one of my favorite episodes even if, like "Black Market," there are some big flaws with development for later episodes. One of the best conversations of the entire series is in this episode.

Finished up a two-part Silent Witness. The culprit was indeed one of two characters I thought it might be. Such a great episode.

Started season two of Death in Paradise. Good opening episode with some familiar faces in the guest stars. I love catching my favorite actors in other roles.

Enjoyed an episode of Fantasy Island. So cool to kind of see how Elena assumed the role of host. I'm very curious about Ruby's mystery woman. I have a theory about her and I hope we get some answers before the end of the season.

Finished up season two of Strangest Things. I'd be interested in more episodes, but I won't hold my breath. The combination of Discovery and HBO Max is the stupidest thing ever and I'm honestly not sure I'll even continue trying to find shows I want to watch.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Lost and Found, a novella that brings a couple back together to help their friends.

Here's the miniblurb:

Marianne Jenkins and Jon Walton are on the outs, but when their best friends' daughter is kidnapped, Mari and Jon put their differences aside and work to help find the little one, which won't be easy because the culprit is much closer than any of them think.

And a snippety peek…

Mari entered the deserted coffee shop and spotted Shar and Karl in a corner booth.

She made her way through the empty tables but stopped short when she caught another person with them. His eyes narrowed and he shot Shar and Karl a sideways glance. At least Jon seemed to be surprised to see her too.

Mari shook her head. "Uh-uh. Tell me you didn't drag me here for some kind of lame-ass intervention." She started to turn, ready to leave. "Not interested."

Shar's hand snagged Mari's wrist. "This isn't a goddamned intervention. It's not even about you." Her voice hissed the next words. "Dina's been kidnapped and your self-absorbed ass is going to sit down and help figure out a way to get her back." She jerked Mari forward, dragging her into the booth.

Stunned and, quite frankly, embarrassed, Mari wrapped an arm around Shar. "Shit. I'm so sorry." She reached out and grasped Karl's hand. "When the hell did this happen?" Carefully avoiding meeting Jon's gaze, Mari tamped down her guilt at being a bitch.

Jon gave a startled grunt. "This is why you asked us here?" Relief filled his tone.

The fist around her heart eased a little and the weight in her stomach lessened. If Jon thought they'd been summoned for a why-don't-you-two-crazy-idiots-get-back-together session, also, she didn't need to be so angsty.

Karl nodded. "Yeah, look, we know you're on the outs, but you're our best friends, and we don't have anyone else to turn to." He lifted his chin and Shar's head bobbed up and down, giving him the go ahead to continue. "As Dina's godparents, we need you to set your shit aside and promise to put shredding each other on hold until we have our daughter back." He squeezed Mari's hand. "Can you do that?"

Mari finally met Jon's gaze. He rolled a shoulder—which, of course, he did—leaving the call hers to make. Just one of the reasons they clashed all the time in the first place.

She bit back a nasty retort and hugged Shar harder. "Yeah, we can do that. How do you want us to help?"

I'm not completely sure how this story is going to play out and that always makes me kind of happy and nervous at the same time.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Lose Control

Wow. August snuck up on me. I need someone to slow time down a little so I can catch up. I did have a great week with work projects and I'm hoping that trend continues through the end of the year.

Had an okay week with watching television. I'm going through a weird phase where I'm feeling kind of blah about everything I'm viewing. Not because the shows aren't interesting … more because my attention is very scattered and it's hard to focus right now.

I started and ended the week with episodes of Strangest Things. Seriously, there are some truly weird and bizarre items featured on this show. People are strange sometimes.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats. Both featured fun bits with Grandpa Lou (Lew? I honestly can't remember how it's spelled.) They also had an in loving memory of David Doyle, the actor who voiced the character. Nice reminder of his work.

Watched another episode of Madame Blanc Mysteries. We're an episode away from the end of season two and I'm not sure if I'm interested in whatever the creepy lady has in store for Jean or not. I'm on the fence about whether I hope there's a resolution to wrap this part up or if it should continue through season three, if there is one.

Enjoyed another episode of Cannes Confidential. This show is so much fun even with the dark theme swirling in the background. I really hope there's another season of this.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness. Very interesting premise. I'm not completely sure I have this one figured out, but I think I do.

Caught another Death in Paradise, which finished out the first season. Looking forward to starting season two this week.

Continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Black Market." I have so much love for this episode even though it has a lot of flaws. Getting action-hero Lee is kind of worth having some thrown-in plot devices.

Watched another Fantasy Island episode and, again, I'm cautiously optimistic with how they're handling the personal lives of the characters. Also really enjoyed the fantasy of the three women. Such a great episode!

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Lose Control, a sexy short where stress relief is on the menu.

Here's the miniblurb:

As a bar owner, Colin Ford stays calm and in control even though his work can be hectic and demanding. To relieve Colin's stress, Essie Hines loves nothing more than to make him lose control when they're alone together.

And a snippety peek…

Essie Hines clocked in and went in search of her boyfriend and boss, Colin Ford. "Wonder what he's got going on today." She'd had a midweek break and returned just in time for work and the Friday night rush.

She found Colin in the basement, restocking the huge walk-in cooler. A job he shouldn't be doing. He had barbacks for that.

Not that Essie would complain. Colin doing grunt work never failed to appeal to her baser instincts. For a tall, lanky bar owner, he made moving cases of alcohol look somehow graceful.

Propping her shoulder on the wall, she tilted her head to one side. "Where's Theo? Shouldn't he be doing the unload?" Her lips curved when Colin gave a startled jerk.

He set the case of bottles on the floor and faced her. "Theo called off. Again." He slowly made his way across the floor and grasped her hips when he got close. "Which means I'm running the stock tonight." His head dipped and his lips caught hers.

She wrapped her arms around his neck and sank into the welcome embrace. The quick trip home accomplished what it needed to, namely closing out her bank accounts since she no longer lived in her small hometown. She also spent some quality time with her mom and brother. The latter would be leaving for a stint in the navy soon.

Colin eased away. "Everything go okay at home?" He arched his brows. "You sure Frankie wants to join the navy? I could use another Hines around here." He nodded toward the pile of crates.

Essie laughed. "My brother wants to see the world and not have to pay to do it." She actually admired her sibling for going after what he wanted.

Colin huffed out a breath. "In that case…" He grasped her shoulders and nudged her toward the delivery. "Why don't you help me out for about twenty minutes?"

She gave a dramatic sigh. "Fine. But only because I get to ogle you while you work." Not a hardship.

Colin snorted. "And because you'll make more tips if you can actually have stock to serve." He hefted a heavy case of whiskey bottles onto a shelf.

Essie barked out a laugh. "Okay, that too." She picked up two cases of bottled beer and stocked them in the cooler.

She worked side by side with Colin for the next fifteen minutes. Half the delivery found its way to the shelves and walk-in refrigerator. She paused, her head tilting to one side again. How many times had Theo called off this month?

Straightening, she asked the question. "Colin, what's up with Theo? Isn't this like the third or fourth time he's missed a shift this month?"

Colin grunted. "Yeah. Fourth. Don't know what's up, but if he doesn't have a good reason, he's done. I can't keep pulling double duty. Not when we're as busy as we've been recently." He shook his head.

Essie wanted to smack Theo. "Got anyone in mind to take his place?" She didn't really have to ask … Colin planned ahead.

He shrugged. "I have a candidate in mind. Haven't made the call yet." He propped two more kegs in the cooler.

Essie gave a nod. "Until you do … you're working late. Not exactly healthy, you know." She'd have to make sure Colin got some rest before opening tomorrow.

But … he also needed to relieve his stress. She could definitely help with that … after closing.

I'm just getting started on this one and I'm having fun with Essie and Colin. They're a good complement to each other.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin