Sunday Snippet: Surf's Up

Welcome June and another month where time will probably fly by too quickly. Doesn't help that I'm under the weather right now and feeling yucky. Hopefully whatever this is will pass quickly and I can get back to normal.

Had a solid work week. Finished up a cozy mystery proofread and made progress on a developmental edit. Also got a lot of writing done, which makes me happy because I've been hitting walls lately.

Fairly good viewing this week. Managed to go through my show list twice. I might start adding in a few more shows but I like this current group.

Finished up the fourth season of Suspects. I'll be starting the fifth and final season this week. Looks like a banger ending for this series.

Caught two episodes of Brokenwood Mysteries. Both were excellent. Very fun to see how Halloween is celebrated in New Zealand, especially since it's spring there instead of fall. Very cool.

Watched two episodes of Best in Paradise. I'm enjoying the intros by the actors and I'm enjoying their picks for favorite episodes.

Also enjoyed two episodes of Death in Paradise. I'd seen bits of both episodes but not the whole thing. Loved the one with the zoo. Also like how much Jack is becoming a part of the community.

Caught two episodes of Elementary. Interesting to see Gregson's personal life on a bit of a display. Also thoroughly enjoying Sherlock's interactions with Joan as he fully sinks into the partnership.

Watched two episodes of The Batman. Fun to have Harley Quinn introduced. And I very much enjoyed the New Year's Eve episode.

Also enjoyed two episodes of Classic Rugrats. I'd forgotten they started to work three vignettes in after the movie. Not sure if I really like that in hindsight.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Surf's Up, a novella that shows a couple finally crossing the line between coworkers to lovers.

Here's the miniblurb:

Marla Siff and Farley Osbourne protect a wealthy businessman as part of his entourage. People assume tech geek Farley is the muscle, but Marla is the combat trained protective detail. When a threat looms, they retreat to the private shores of their client's own island and Marla and Farley fight their attraction to keep their boss safe.

And a snippety peek…

Marla woke with one prevailing thought.

So, sex with Farley happened. Really, really good sex.

She rolled over to find Farley scrolling through security cam footage. "Anything interesting?" Aside from the change in their status.

Farley's lips turned down. "Like what?" His fingers scrinched the screen then swiped to the next frame of footage.

Marla huffed out a breath. "I don't know. An invasion of sea creatures? Or something similarly amazing." Kind of like the romp they had last night.

Farley side-eyed her. "Sea creature invasion?" He snorted. "Lane would try to lock them into a contract." He swiped to the next section of security screenings.

Farley wouldn't be far off base. Lane tried to get anyone—or anything—unusual he could use to further Pennylane's reach. His midas touch did a lot of convincing.

She propped her chin on her hand. "So … what's next?" She might as well poke the elephant in the room.

Farley didn't look up from the tablet. "Depends on Lane's schedule." He switched from exterior footage to interior.

Marla ignored the stab of disappointment. "I mean with us, you moron. How do we navigate this—working and sleeping together?" She'd never had the experience of sleeping with someone she worked so closely with.

Farley frowned. "Sex is sex. Work is work. It's not that hard." He opened a new window and typed something onto the screen.

Marla blinked. "Ouch. Okay. Put like that, I feel stupid." She sat up, ready to make a quick exit.

Farley's gaze shot to hers. "What? Why?" His eyes closed, and he shook his head. "Never mind. I realize how that sounded now." He set the tablet aside and faced her. "Let me try this again." He grabbed her free hand. "We work great together. That shouldn't change just because we're great in bed, too. And we'll always put Lane's safety first."

Marla chewed his words over. "And you don't see our feelings getting in the way of that?" She paused. "What if one of us is compromised?" They couldn't assume it would never happen.

Farley held her gaze. "You have to mean what if I'm compromised, because you're more than capable of getting out of a jam." He let go of her hand. "But you obviously don't think I am." A hard note entered his voice.

Now she got to rewind and realize how that question sounded. Not at all what she meant.

Marla reached out for him. "No, you're wrong. I thought maybe the different dynamic would be a problem. But it looks like it won't be." She eased back down and curled up close to him. "We are gonna need to communicate though. Misunderstandings are easy to create." But at least they made it through their first one.

Farley wrapped an arm around her. "Yeah, I see that now. Lots of stuff can get lost in the translation from work to sex." His lips brushed over her temple. "We should go for a beach walk and lay out some contingency plans."

Marla smiled. "We're definitely on the same page now."

This story is a lot of fun. Marla and Farley aren't a typical couple and I love writing the vibe between them.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Summer's Eve (Organic Nature)

May is winding down and it's been kind of a whirlwind month. Or I might be hitting that age where time seems to fly by faster every day.

Not a bad work week. I finished up a project and jumped back into one that had been sitting on the back burner for a while. Also started a new one. Got some writing done also, which makes me happy because the sages have been on an extended vacation.

Pretty good week of viewing also. I managed to go through my slate of shows twice and finished up an episode I left hanging a few weeks ago.

Watched two episodes of The Brokenwood Mysteries. Thoroughly enjoyed both. I'm so excited this show is back for another season. I love the characters so much.

Caught two episodes of Death in Paradise. Finished up season seven and ended up liking it a lot. Starting season eight this week.

Started watching Best in Paradise, which features the favorite episodes of the cast. Got two viewed, and I think I'll continue watching. They have fun intros from the cast member and why the episode is one of their favorites.

Watched two episodes of Elementary and I really love how Joan is being fleshed out and using her knowledge. Also kind of happy to see some growth with Sherlock.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Batman. I remembered both and enjoyed each one. Really fun to have Robin and Batgirl working together to take down the rogues.

Caught one episode of Suspects and it ended up being a twisty affair, which I love. I have two more episodes of season four and then I'll start the final fifth season.

Watched two episodes of Classic Rugrats. Finished up the lead-in to the movie and caught the first episode post wedding. Fun stuff.

Also finished an episode of Peak Practice I started a couple of weeks ago. The later seasons seem to be a little hit or miss for me. Can't wait to finally get to season twelve.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Summer's Eve, an Organic Nature sexy short.

Here's the miniblurb:

The beginning of summer means Vin Derbish is chest-deep into his busy season. Eppie Collins is used to not seeing much of Vin during the month of June but suggests a spontaneous camping trip when the weather turns nasty with thunderstorms. A few days in a cabin with pouring rain as their soundtrack can't be a bad thing.

And a snippety peek…

Eppie stood on the porch, enjoying the light show. "I love a summer storm." Especially when being naked would otherwise be an issue.

The warm temperatures and humidity meant the gusty wind cooled more than chilled her skin. And being on the porch protected her from most of the steady rainfall. The fine mist blowing through the newly added screening tantalized and heightened her anticipation of Vin's arrival.

The slam of a vehicle door had her lips curving upward. "Incoming in five…" Her mind pictured Vin entering the front door and striding through the main room. "Four…" He'd toss his keys on the counter and toe off his boots. "Three…" Probably glance up to the loft and find it dark… "Two…" Then head on through the kitchen and to the back door. "One…" She turned to find Vin standing in the nude with a very hard dick.

No doubt he left a trail of clothes from the front of the house to the back.

His breath whooshed out. "Sweet mercy, Ep. You're gorgeous out here." He moved forward, a wolfish glint in his eyes.

Eppie arched her brows. "And you're raring to go…" Her hand fisted his hard-on. "Out here … in the elements?" She wanted him buried deep while the thunder rolled and boomed.

Vin's lips kicked up on one side. "Oh, yeah. A quick one to take the edge off." His hands skimmed up along her sides to cup her breasts.

His thumbs brushed over her taut nipples before his head dipped down to capture the right peak between his lips. Eppie's head fell back, and she tugged on the rod of flesh in her palm. If possible, he grew bigger and harder. A low rumble of thunder rolled in the distance and the spotty, sputtery rain turned into a full-on downpour.

Vin straightened and nudged Eppie around to face the screens. "Perfect timing…" His hot breath fanned against her neck.

She grasped the back of the rattan loveseat, placed her knees on the cushion, and leaned forward, sticking her ass out. "Absolutely perfect as soon as you give me what I need." She wiggled her hips.

Vin didn't disappoint. He moved forward, palming the globe of her butt with one hand. He used the other to run his length up and down her slick folds to get her good and ready for his smooth thrust of entry. He slid deep, bottoming out when his groin met her ass.

Eppie made a hum of satisfaction at the same moment a streak of lightning flared in the sky.

Perfectly perfect timing…

Eppie and Vin are a joy to write. I love writing an established couple and showing their ups and downs on the page.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Stone Cold Sober

Had a solid week of getting stuff done. This makes me happy. Got a garden planted. Okay, my husband got most of the planting done. I only did one thing, but I call that a win anyway.

On the work front, I did fairly well also. I'm hoping to launch a new venture in June, and I finally got back to setting that up. I also finished up a copy edit and started a proofreading project.

Solid week of viewing also. I'm in a bit of a groove and sticking with a cluster of shows. I still have a weird urge to binge watch a marathon of something, but I've resisted that urge. It's so easy to fall down a rabbit hole and not get anything done.

Ended up getting two episodes of Death in Paradise watched. One featured a Day of the Dead tie in, which is notable only because I'm watching a different show today that has a Day of the Dead tie in.

Also got two episodes of Elementary in. Started season two and got to meet Mycroft, which I enjoyed. Also got some additional Joan backstory and I'm glad to see some of that.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Batman. Both were ones I remembered from my original run through the show. Season three is different as I don't feel as connected to the characters, but it's a pretty solid season so far.

Caught two episodes of Classic Rugrats. I've started season eight and I'd forgotten it's a lead up to the Rugrats in Paris movie and all the episodes are interconnected.

Watched two episodes of Suspects. I finished up season three and started season four. The premiere of four had a very twisty case and I really enjoyed that one.

Started season ten of Brokenwood Mysteries. I love this show so much. There's a terrific cast of characters and I love that Frodo and Todd have found both bodies so far this season.

Also enjoyed the finale of season twenty-six of Silent Witness. I'm finally one hundred percent caught up with the series. Now I play a waiting game until season twenty-seven.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Stone-Cold Sober, a novella with one of my favorite tropes … meeting the wrong guy first.

Here's the miniblurb:

When Tansy Jons meets West Tamesin, they have an instant connection, but she's dating one of his oldest friends. A drunken evening and almost hookup with West has Tansy examining what she feels as soon as she's stone-cold sober.

And a snippety peek…

Tansy exhaled on a jittery breath. "I'm really not sure about this." A little nervous about meeting with West, but the place would be perfect for him.

The little bungalow had everything he wanted. Not too big, off the beaten track, but close enough to town for convenience and good utilities. And the price, even if it didn't matter, wouldn't set him back too much.

The crunch of gravel drew her attention to the window. West drove up the long lane, and Tansy fought a kick to her heart when she went down to greet him at his vehicle. He exited the car, and she noticed the abrasion on his cheek.

She winced. "David's handiwork?" Why hadn't she thought of that possibility?

Coming between best friends would never rank as her finest moment.

West grunted. "I deserved it." He shut the door and shoved his hands in his pockets.

The cargo pants suited him. And she really needed to stop that thought right there. She wouldn't traipse down that road.

She shook her head. "No, you didn't. And I'm sorry." She owed him the apology.

West cocked his head and asked a point-blank question. "Why did you dump David?"

Tansy boldly told the truth. "Because I'm stone-cold sober and can't get you out of my mind." She grimaced inwardly. "And I haven't two-timed any man yet … I'm not going to start with a nice guy like David." If she couldn't stop thinking about West, she couldn't be with anyone else.

West mulled her words over and gave a nod. "What do you want?" He didn't add from me, but the implication resonated.

Tansy opted for honesty again. "You. All over me." Why not go for broke?

His eyes widened. "Damn. Didn't expect that answer." He huffed out a breath.

Tansy backed off a little. "Look, I know it's awkward, but I'm being truthful. I find it's better than playing games."

West grumbled with frustration. "I want you. I won't deny I don't." He met her gaze. "But I have something of a code…"

Never date the ex of a best friend. Yeah. Bro code all the way.

Tansy inclined her chin. "I get it. No problem." She gave him the contact info for the rental office and keys. "I hope you like the place." She made her way to her car before she could do anything stupid.

Like beg West to reconsider.

I love to tackle difficult subjects and navigating the fallout after realizing a hard truth is one of my favorite things to do.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

 

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Standing Room Only (a Black Unicorn Comics novella)

Happy US Mother's Day to those who celebrate. For those with parental issues, I hope you find joy and peace.

Had the rare experience of seeing the northern lights in Ohio. I can honestly say I haven't been so excited about something in a long time. The mysteries of space are awesome!

Fairly busy week with work projects and other odds and ends. Finished up a couple of manuscripts and started a new one. I have another ongoing developmental edit that I need to dive back into this week.

Not a bad week of viewing even with a few distractions. I'm at a weird place with watching right now. I'm kind of leaning toward doing binge marathons again and I'm not sure I want to fall down that rabbit hole again.

Caught two episodes of Suspects and enjoyed both. This show is kind of choppy and that adds something to the experience. I love the cases and how things are rarely what they seem from the initial starting point.

Finished up the third season of Madame Blanc Mysteries. I'd love to see another series of this show. The cast is a lot of fun.

Watched two episodes of Silent Witness. I've realized that after the next one, I'm completely caught up with the show. I really like the current cast and I'm excited to see what the next season brings.

Enjoyed an episode of Death in Paradise. This is one I hadn't seen before and I liked the case. I'm also enjoying Jack's tenure as DI.

I think I finished out the first season of Elementary. I'm actually thrilled with how the Moriarity plot played out. I love seeing Joan kind of step in to the role of consulting detective with ease and grace. The things she sees that Sherlock doesn't is always interesting.

Watched another episode of The Batman. Nice to see Ethan back again. I'm a little bummed we haven't seen Chen for a while and I can't remember if she comes back or not.

Enjoyed the Valentine episode of Classic Rugrats. I do remember this one but not everything about it. Nice to see some longer length episodes also.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Standing Room Only, a Black Unicorn Comics novella.

Here's the miniblurb:

The crew from the Black Unicorn Comic Company is celebrating their award-winning event from a convention at a local pub. The entire group is in fine form and, with their significant others in attendance, it's standing room only at the bar with Lucy and Brian holding court.

And a snippety peek…

Lucy Sanderson stumbled out of the crowded venue and threw her arms open wide. "I can't believe we won in every category!" She whirled around, sashaying her hips.

Her better half, Brian Wells, laughed. "You're the one who said we would." He gave her a cheeky grin.

Lucy paused her antics. "Well, yeah. But that was me being overconfident. I didn't really think we'd do a sweep." She put her arms down then wrapped them around Brian. "Congratulations, by the way." Her lips brushed over his.

Brian hugged her close. "I can say the same." His mouth met hers for a lingering kiss.

The rest of their Black Unicorn coworkers spilled out of the auditorium and onto the sidewalk. Zapf and Els had their heads together. Reg and Ana quickly ducked to the side, Ana's baby bump showing proudly through her form-fitting twin set. Ana's sister Josephine wore a wide smile, loving the vibe of their group. Harry followed with Louanne—his date for the evening. He had her hand tucked into the crook of his elbow. Randy and Sosh walked out arm in arm with eyes only for each other.

Probably a good thing because last but not least, Chelle exited the building with her date, Hans Heinmiller, the owner of Black Unicorn's biggest rival, Dark Mirror Comics. Sosh had history with Hans but Chelle either didn't care or thrived on the potential for drama.

Lucy rolled her eyes but kept a biting comment to herself.

Brian leaned in close. "It's killing you, isn't it?" His hand drifted down her back to cup her butt cheek.

Lucy tilted her head back. "What's killing me?" She absolutely knew what he meant, but loved putting him on the spot.

Brian arched his brows. "Not saying whatever is sitting on the tip of your tongue. My guess is you're dying to take Chelle to task for showing up with Hot Hans." His nose wrinkled.

Lucy barked out a laugh. "I swear if she calls him that one more time, I'm going to douse her desk with the strongest tobasco sauce I can find." Or make a bouquet of ghost peppers.

Brian sputtered with a chuckle. "Okay, I'm giving you too many ideas. Let's get this group down to the Jolly and we'll buy a round to celebrate." He waggled his eyebrows.

The Jolly Jester catered to ex-pats like Reg and Brian. A traditional English pub with stout ales and lots of football and cricket on the telly. And, lucky them, located half a block from the awards venue meant they could all walk.

Lucy gave a nod and Brian turned around, issuing a sharp whistle.

Everyone but Chelle quieted down.

Brian jerked his head toward the direction. "Drinks on us at the Jolly. Let's keep this celebration going a little longer, yeah?" He tugged Lucy closer to his side.

A chorus of agreement went around, and everyone started down the sidewalk.

Lucy bit back a grin then leaned up to whisper in Brian's ear. "We're buying one round then we're heading home to have our own little party."

Brian's lips curved upward. "Let me guess … naked and in bed, yeah?"

Lucy lifted her chin. "Absolutely. It's the best way to celebrate."

I have so much love for this series. Brian and Lucy are an amazing couple to write and following their antics is a lot of fun.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: St. Patrick's Day Seduction (Organic Nature short)

Had a super emotional day yesterday with my daughter graduating from college with a bachelor's in media production and theater. She starts grad school in the fall for arts administration. I'm so proud of her! And … considering she had a drive-through high school graduation, getting to see her walk for her bachelor's made me very happy.

Had another good week of work and writing. I finished up two manuscript edits and a proofread on the work front and wrote several scenes in three or four of my WIPs. I'm not quite where I want to be on my writing, but I'm getting back to form.

Actually had a solid week of viewing also. Maybe the planets are aligned where I need them to be right now. Who knows?

Watched two episodes of Elementary and, wow, I rather like what they did with the Moriarity thing. Looking forward to seeing how that ends up. I think I have one more episode of the first season.

Started season three of The Batman and watched two episodes. I remembered both and enjoyed each one.

Caught two episodes of Classic Rugrats. I think I'm at the end of season seven where the two vignettes are actually one episode. Kind of liked that format. I think the new theme starts with season eight. I'll find out this week I think.

Started a new season of Suspects. Loved the opening episode. It did not go where I thought it would and I love that.

Watched another episode of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Broken-hearted for Gloria. I kind of hope there's more to the story about Cooper. I kind of want to find out what his whole deal was with Gloria.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. I don't remember this one at all and actually loved it. Definitely a twisty one.

Caught the first part of Silent Witness. I'm excited to see where this one goes. There's definitely more than meets the eye for this case. I'm not thrilled with the new addition to Jack's life. I love his niece, but the mom is a piece of work and I don't like her at all.

Started a new episode of Peak Practice. I'll try to finish it up this week. Not sure what's up with Sam but I assume the seeds are being planted for his departure and that's why he's being such a prat right now.

Last but not least, I started a documentary called Broken Horses, mainly because it features the author of one of the books I've been working on and his stance that the drugging of horses needs to stop. I can honestly say it's a hard watch and my personal thought there might be a trainer who should never, ever be allowed to participate in the sport ever again. But that's just me.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from St. Patrick's Day Seduction, an organic nature sexy short.

Here's the miniblurb:

Eppie Collins and Vin Derbish survive a visit from Eppie's nefarious ex and she's ready to try something new with Vin—something she's never done before. Eppie takes some time to prepare then sets the stage for the romantic encounter—where else but in the chic shed Vin made for her.

And a snippety peek…

Eppie sat cross-legged in the middle of the bed. "This stuff smells amazing." She released a healthy amount of oil into her palms.

Vin perched on the edge of the mattress, his back on display. "Almost, but not quite, as good as the alfredo earlier." He shifted to the side and worked his shoulder up and down.

Eppie cocked her head. "Let me start right here." Her fingers glided over his skin before she pressed harder with her thumbs.

Vin groaned. "Ahh. That's nice, Ep." He slumped forward, his head dipping low.

She smiled and kept massaging Vin's muscles, enjoying the way they played under her fingertips. "You need to be horizontal. I wanna get my hands on your thighs." She loved the corded sinew he displayed from the physical labor he did.

Vin titled sideways, turning to lay flat on his stomach, swinging his legs up. Eppie added more oil and started in on his calves. Her hands pressed and lightly squeezed the hard flesh. She inhaled, the aroma of spicy citrus tantalizing her senses.

Moving upward, she gripped the hair-roughened skin of Vin's thighs and kneaded deeply.

He let out a long sigh. "You're working magic. Feels amazing."

Eppie grinned again. "I love doing this. There's something powerful about making the person you love experience something that feels wonderful."

Vin angled his head around. "Not to cut this short because I love it, but I also love watching you get off. Let's work the vibe in soon." He waggled his eyebrows and sat up.

Eppie couldn't deny looking forward to some stimulating play, especially with the new items. But first things first. She handed Vin the bottle of massage oil.

Vin took it without comment and squeezed a generous amount into his hand. "On your stomach, Ep. Time for me to work out all your kinks." His lips twitched.

Eppie laughed and rolled over onto her tummy. "More like indulge all my kinks, which is always fun." She exhaled on a long breath when his palms smoothed over her shoulders and down her back.

Vin stroked to her ass then returned to her upper torso. "Indulgence and fun go hand in hand with us." His fingers glided along her ribs.

Eppie closed her eyes and gave herself over to Vin's soothing touch. The warmth of his skin against hers never failed to relax stress away. Several minutes later, the telltale buzz of the vibrator had her lips twisting in a smirk. Relaxation time is over…

She eased over onto her back and gazed up at Vin. "Grab the sleeve while I get a little jumpstart with this." She took the slim device and ran the tip along her leg before settling it against her clit. "I have a feeling neither of us will last long…"

I love writing this couple so much. It's a joy to explore the ins and outs of this relationship.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Spring Chickens (Organic Nature)

Gearing up for a busy week with work projects and my youngest's graduation from college. I think we're also going to have some nasty weather, which should be fun.

Had a solid week of work and writing, which makes me very happy. I might be finding my groove again. I so hope I am. I'm not a fan of being unable to focus when I need to.

Had a decent week of television viewing. Made it through the modified list of shows and started over.

I caught the final two behind the character bonuses for My Life Is Murder. I'm somewhat hoping there's another season. Based on a little research, I think there might be.

Also watched two episodes of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Both were enjoyable. Kind of sad to see the pub owners no longer with the cast but interested in Dom's uncle being a possible addition. Hopefully he won't be too shady.

Enjoyed the two-part Silent Witness. A lot of twists and turns in this one and I liked them. Looking forward to starting a new two-parter this week.

Finished up season six and started season seven of Death in Paradise. I'm excited to dive further into Jack's tenure as the DI. It feels like this is when cast members start their merry-go-round of coming and going. But I'm looking forward to more of this show.

Caught another episode of Elementary and Moriarty is making their presence known. I'm kind of interested in how this might play out over the seasons. I'm very much loving the dynamic with Sherlock and Watson.

Watched another episode of The Batman. I guess it was the season two finale. It always kind of annoys me when the first season is twice as long as the remaining ones. That said, pretty sure Robin makes an appearance in season three so there's that.

Enjoyed an episode of Classic Rugrats. Again, these were new-to-me vignettes. Not sure what happened with season seven during the original run, but I'm happy to see those now.

Also finished up the Peak Practice episode I started a while ago. Hoping to get another one in this week.

That's it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Spring Chickens, an Organic Nature sexy short.

Here's the miniblurb:

A four-day weekend over the Easter holiday puts Vin Derbish in the mood for some alone time with Eppie Collins. A family emergency sees Eppie taking in her niece and nephew, which gives Eppie and Vin some perspective on parenthood.

And a snippety peek…

"Where are my little munchkins?" Eppie entered her house and set her bag inside the door.

Her niece and nephew came running from the living room, bouncing up and down with excitement.

Lily followed, her lips quirked in a grin.

Eppie's brows arched. "Wow, you're happy to see me." Her gaze narrowed. "Or did you two get into the Easter candy?"

Her niece rolled her eyes. "Aunt Eppie, it's not even Easter yet. We don't have candy to get into."

Lily grabbed her tote bag from the counter. "They were finishing off the brownies I made earlier. The test run of the new recipe meets their approval." She patted the outside pocket. "Should be a hit at Mom's brunch."

Eppie walked Lily to the door. "Thanks for staying. I'm so glad you were able to pinch hit until I got here." Vin snuck past them and greeted the kids.

Lily leaned in close. "They're a little worried about their dad. Brave faces for now, but I wanted to let you know that might not last once the sugar high wears off." She pushed the door open.

Eppie followed her. "Thanks for the heads-up. Vin and I will find things to keep them occupied. Maybe we'll stream movies on the side of the house tonight and pop popcorn over a fire."

Lily laughed. "They'll love that. Let me know if you need anything." She waved and headed for her car.

Eppie went back inside and found Vin rinsing the plates and glasses in the sink.

She stuck her hands in his back pockets and squeezed his ass. "Movie night outside? We can start a fire and curl up with blankets and pop popcorn."

Vin frowned. "Mmm. Might be better inside. Supposed to dip down into the low thirties." He grabbed a dishtowel and turned to face her. "We can still pop corn over the fire in here." A slow grin crossed his face. "And build a blanket fort." He waggled his eyebrows.

Eppie chuckled. "Kids'll love building a fort. I'm going to assume we'll have them overnight, so indoor campout should be fun." She tilted her chin up and planted a kiss on Vin. "Good plan. You won't mind if they have to stay, will you?" She usually went to Dani's if they needed someone overnight.

Vin shook his head. "Nah. I might have to head out tomorrow to finish up a few odds and ends at the cabin, but I'll wait to see what's going on with Ken first."

Eppie smiled and eased away from Vin. "Hey, kiddos, how does an indoor campout sound?" Might as well get them started on picking a movie.

The squeals and cheers coming from the living room were off the chart happy ones.

Eppie grabbed the phone. "Think I'll order pizza for dinner." She keyed the number in.

Vin's lips curved. "Are you bucking for the best aunt ever award?"

Eppie snorted. "I already have that honor. This is just one of the reasons why I do." Spoiling her sister's kids ranked high on Eppie's list of fun things to do.

Even if it drove Dani nuts sometimes.

I'm not quite sure where this story is going yet. I know what I think should happen, but Eppie and Vin don't always go where I want them to.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin 

Sunday Snippet: Sparkle and Boom (Organic Nature short)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a snippety peek…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vin gave her a wide grin. "Absolutely."

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

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin