Sunday Snippet: Harshing the Calm

Welcome, November! Honestly, October had great points and not-so-great points. Having a sick pet is not fun. Trying to figure out exactly what's going on isn't either. But she appears to be doing better so that's a plus.

We had a spectacular trick-or-treat night. The weather ended up being cooperative. Chilly but not cold, slightly windy but not gusty, and no rain. The past few years we've had flurries, frigid temperatures, rain, and the blowy, serious wind that makes everyone miserable. Having almost perfect weather is a nice change.

Had an okay work week. I finished up a copy edit and started a new proofread. Finalized a developmental edit with only formatting left to do before it moves over to a copy editor. I have a bit of research to do for the other developmental edit I'm working on and I should have that at least started today.

Not a bad week of viewing. I made it all the way through my current slate of shows. I didn't hit the backburner ones but, again, sick doggo equals a lot of time.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and I'm almost finished with the second season. I really did enjoy the downfall of Jack's former father-in-law. I also loved how disgusted Rosie ended up being with her dad. Christmas episode is up next and it's one I love to pieces.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and finished out the second season. I'd forgotten Andrew crashed his plane and he had a bit of a romance with Sam. Looking forward to starting the third season.

Watched an episode of Beyond Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed Humphrey and Martha interacting with their new foster. Also quite enjoyed the Ester and Archie banter. I really hope Kelby ends up getting a girl because he's the sweetest guy ever.

Enjoyed an episode of Poirot. A lot of twisty-turns in this one and Poirot getting all bent over Hastings using the bathroom as a darkroom was hilarious.

Elementary ended up being very interesting. I'm kind of wary of Joan trying to get a mole inside Moreland's company. I think it's for protection so Moreland's enemies can't hurt Sherlock and, by extension, Joan. I'm very interested in whether Moreland is setting this up on purpose or if he's just underestimating Joan. Should be fun to find out.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and didn't really remember this one. Ended up liking it a lot. Always good to see Bruce out of the manor.

Lower Decks was so much fun. Beckett is growing on me and Boimler isn't annoying me as much either. And the theme song is still stuck in my head. I think it might be my favorite out of all the Trek shows.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Harshing the Calm, a novella about a second-chance romance.

Here's the miniblurb:

Gentry and Rayce have a volatile past, one they walk away from to start over. But old habits are hard to break and when their paths cross again, they discover they can repeat their mistakes or change and grow into something so much better.

And a snippety peek…

On their third shot, Gentry's eyebrows rose upward. "Wait. You're telling me Catie's ex tracked her down after his stint in the army and proposed?" She shook her head. "Just like that? And they had zero contact while he was gone?" Her fingers crumpled the napkin under the tumbler.

Almost pleasantly toasted, Rayce shrugged. "Pretty much." He rolled his square coaster into a long tube. "At least she let me down easy. And Dylan is a pretty great guy." And perfect for Catie.

Gentry blinked. "Um … sounds like you weren't too upset by the breakup. Not if you're hanging out with the guy." She laughed. "That's actually kind of wild … in a good way."

Rayce shrugged. "We belong to the same gym. He makes a good sparring partner in the boxing ring."

Gentry's lips quirked. "Better than me?"

Rayce chuckled. "Honestly? Probably not. I never have to settle wagers with Dylan in the bedroom after a round." Shit … did he just stay that?

Gentry laughed out loud. "Good to know. I'll bet he doesn't cheat to make wagers interesting either." She straightened out the napkin, smoothed it flat again then looked up at him through her eyelashes.

Rayce widened his eyes. "Did you think I didn't know you worked the odds in your favor half the time?" He loved the flirty banter they had going on.

Made him remember how much fun Gentry could be … when they weren't arguing. Usually about work. Or their schedules. Or how to make macaroni and cheese. Stupid stuff.

Gentry tilted her head to one side. "Wasn't sure. Thought I should maybe clear up any doubt though." She smirked. "Kind of like you letting me win if you liked my bet more than yours."

Rayce answered with a grin.

Gentry inclined her chin. "Thought so." She paused and dug her phone out of her pocket, typing out a quick text.

A moment later, her phone pinged with a response. She typed another message and got a speedy reply. She nodded and turned her phone facedown.

One side of her mouth curved. "It's official. Cal and I are through." She set the device aside and poured another shot.

Rayce blinked. "Just like that? And by text?" She moved fast.

Gentry shrugged. "Um, kind of? I texted that we needed to talk, and he replied that we didn't. He already knew moving would be a big ask." She drained her glass.

Rayce grunted. "You're sure?"

Gentry's head bobbed. "Yeah. I know myself. Long distance would never work. I mean, Cal's got a shot at the big leagues, and I don't have an interest in being a baseball significant other." She rolled a shoulder. "Besides, if he makes it big, it would blow my undercover work."

Absolutely true. One random photo on a fan's social media or an industry event could unravel a long-term operation. He didn't blame her for not wanting to be in the spotlight.

Rayce lifted his chin. "So, you're back to being footloose and fancy free?" He held his breath waiting for an answer.

Gentry cocked her head to one side, her eyes changing to a deeper color. "Unless you're into picking up again…" Her voice trailed off on a note of uncertainty.

Rayce threw caution to the wind. "Yeah, I just might be." Possibly a terrible call but he'd missed her more than he'd freely admit.

A charged moment passed between them.

Gentry grabbed her phone and held his gaze. "I'm still just around the corner." She tucked the device into her pocket.

Royce didn't hesitate. "Let's go." He didn't care if leaving with her proved to be a huge mistake.

Gentry tossed some cash on the table, then got up to leave. She gave a two-fingered salute to Bart and snorted when he smirked. Once outside, she grabbed Rayce's hand and made a mad dash to her apartment.

Racing up to the door, Gentry paused. "Are you sure?"

He answered by crushing her mouth with his. They stumbled inside, stripping each other on the way to her bedroom. Rayce felt like he'd come home.

But … how long would it last?

Rayce might be surprised by Gentry and her newfound sense of self. Gentry might be surprised too!

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Hang Ten

Geez. I can't believe we're in the last week of October. This month flew by and I'm kind of sad I didn't have the time or energy to enjoy it more.

Doggo update. She's still not quite over the sinus infection. We had a hard time getting her to eat much, and her antibiotic needs to be taken with food. We're surmising she's not interested because she can't smell right now. She's still drinking plenty of water and also gets excited when anyone comes home, so we think she's doing okay. She still doesn't like having her nose wiped to remove the yuck leaking from it though.

Not a bad work week. I had a couple of focus-intense projects to work through, which became a challenge because I'm not sleeping as well as I should be. But … I'm nearing the end of one long project and starting a new longish project and I'm thrilled they're going so well. I finished up a proofread and started a new copy edit also.

Had an okay viewing week. I didn't make it through my full list of shows, but got most of them in. I just didn't have the attention span to watch stuff this week.

I did get an episode of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries in and I'm getting closer to the end of season two.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and it's one I didn't remember. It features an actor that used to be one of my faves, but he kind of went off the deep end and I can't really enjoy his work anymore. That's a me problem, I know.

Enjoyed the season three premiere of Beyond Paradise. So nice to see Archie again, even if he tried to muck up Humph and Martha's romance. I really enjoy this show.

Watched another episode of Poirot and enjoyed the mystery. There ended up being a lot going on in this one and it felt like a couple of shortcuts were taken, but overall a fun episode. Well … except for the murder of course.

Elementary ended up being a lot of fun with the twist on the Baskerville lore. I'm so happy with Sherlock's growth as a character and his quietly impassioned plea for the ME to get some help kind of made the episode for me.

I didn't get to watch Batman Beyond or Lower Decks this week because I ran out of steam. Hopefully, I'll get to catch up soon.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Hang Ten, a sexy short about a surfing couple.

Here's the miniblurb:

Farren and Penn—professional surfers—have very different styles when competing. Farren goes for broke, taking chances with moves that others won't try. Penn is all about the physics of his craft, sometimes holding back because he can't predict everything. Two different methods, opposite ends of the spectrum, but an interesting mix when they're off their boards and out of the water.

And a snippety peek…

In the wee hours, Farren jerked and her eyes blinked open. She wondered what woke her, but her brain didn't take long to catch up. Her face screamed with pain.

She groaned. "Damn. Faceplanting sucks." And so did sleeping on the injured side of it.

She jumped when a warm hand cupped her hip. "Check the nightstand." Penn's gravely voice rasped close to her ear.

Angling her head, slowly and carefully, she did as he asked. A cup of water, two pain pills, and a cold compress rested on the top. She grinned, even though it hurt like a bitch.

She popped the tablets in her mouth. "You're a pretty terrific guy, Penn." She followed with a big swallow of water.

He smirked. "I know. It's good of you to acknowledge my awesomeness."

She snorted, almost choking on the meds. "Damn, don't make me do that." She activated the ice pack and laid back down, pressing it against her face.

Penn rolled to his side. "Sorry. I know that's gotta hurt." He grinned. "You would have totally beat me if you hadn't wiped out. That was a spectacular ride."

Farren appreciated the kudos. "Yeah, well, I'm comforted by the thrill of still being a covert couple." Her lips twitched in a brief smile. "And having you here for pain management." And thinking ahead.

Penn brushed her bangs back from her face with his fingertips. "I aim to please. Although not sure we'll still be super-secret anymore." One side of his mouth quirked upward. "As you intended, Avery figured our status out." He tapped the tip of Farren's nose. "She says hello, by the way."

Farren lifted her chin. "She's a great kid. We'll have fun mentoring her." Or just making sure she caught as many breaks as possible.

Penn grunted. "Which means an early start tomorrow." He settled down on his side and draped an arm over her waist.

Farren angled her head toward his. "Better get some more rest then." She meshed her lips with his. "Gotta hang ten with the best, don't I?"

Penn snorted. "Until the next competition anyway."

Farren winked. "Yep. My money's on Avery."

Penn laughed and scooped her into his side.

This is such a fun little sexy short. Farren and Penn love to mix a little humor into everything they do.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Green-Eyed Monster

It's a drippy, dreary day, which actually doesn't bother me. It's been so dry in Ohio, and the rain might help wash all the allergy-inducing yuck away for a while.

Had a solid work week. I finished up a copy edit and started a new one. I'm wrapping up an extended coaching project and moving into the final stages before sending it out for the next steps. Started a new memoir developmental edit, and I'm excited about working on it with the author. I have a couple of other projects waiting in the wings, but my plate is full for the moment.

Doggo update. I think we're through the hard stuff. Who knew having a congested dog could be so exhausting. It sucks because, unlike when my kiddos didn't feel well, the dog can't verbalize what's making them feel poorly. A lot of trial and error to make sure they're doing okay.

Had an okay viewing week. I got through most of my usual shows with the exception of Lower Decks. I ran out of steam and couldn't get that one in.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and enjoyed the episode. The ending always make me smile with Hugh and Dottie getting engaged and Jack and Phryne drinking wine from grapes … that she crushed with her feet.

Watched another episode of Foyle's War and remembered most of it. I'd actually forgotten the underlying thread of Rex being in love with Andrew and Foyle's supportive reaction to the information. A very good episode.

Finished up season fourteen of Death in Paradise. I'm kind of curious about Patterson's departure. If he's really leaving the show, I'll be disappointed as he's been with it since the beginning. However, a changing of the guard isn't always a bad thing. I have a fun thought about who could possibly replace him and if it pans out, it would be very cool.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I really do like the episodes that don't involve a murder. The bond robbery ended up being a lot of fun. Poor Hastings being seasick and his denial of it was a fun side thread.

Elementary had another solid episode. I'm enjoying Joan's journey of getting back to supportive interpersonal relationships. The scenes with her and Gregson were lovely.

Caught another episode of Batman Beyond and it's one I didn't really remember so I enjoyed watching. I think I'm almost through the second season and I can't really remember if there are more after this one or not.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Green-Eyed Monster, a novella that explores how the grass is greener after a breakup.

Here's the miniblurb:

Dani works undercover sting operations and inadvertently shoots the girlfriend of Neal, one her coworkers. When the green-eyed monster of jealousy rears its head, Dani isn't sure how to help Neal through the trauma, but she'll move whatever stands in the way to make sure he's happy.

And a snippety peek…

Dani shoved the green-eyed monster back in its hole.

She snagged one of his fingers with one of hers. "I don't have any easy answers, but I do understand where you're coming from." She met his gaze. "When you left, I had something of a wake-up call. What we do isn't just difficult." Fighting the urge to glance away, she got right down to the specific point. "It's hard and bloody more often than not. And it means trust is a commodity unless it's freely given." She stopped there, hoping he'd understand.

He gave a nod. "I know. And it's harder to give if you've been burned." He squeezed her finger.

He did get it.

She changed the topic, just a little. "So ... based on everything you've said tonight ... you and Kyra? No happily ever after?" Her heart hurt for him even if she didn't want them together.

His lips curved in a sad smile. "There is no happily ever after. I don't think they actually happen anymore." He shrugged.

Dani traced the back of his hand. "Does Kyra know?"

Neal shook his head. "Not yet. The whole shootout kind of interrupted a gentle letdown." One side of his mouth kicked up.

Dani closed her eyes. "Man, I'm sorry." Truly suck ass timing on everyone's part.

Neal rolled a shoulder. "And I won't do it here. I might be cynical, but I strive to keep the asshole behavior to a minimum."

Dani chuckled. "Except with me." Not that she didn't deserve it sometimes.

Neal turned his palm upward. "Yeah. Probably true."

Dani tilted her head. "Have you ever wondered why?"

Neal huffed out a breath. "I know why. Because no matter what, you'll call me on it."

Dani took the opening that statement provided. "And you tried to call me on it, but I never listened. I always put the job first." She waited a beat. "I'm ready to listen now." She hoped he believed her.

Neal laced their fingers together. "You have suck-ass timing, Dans." He huffed out a breath.

She shrugged this time. "I know. But there's no rush." She got to her feet and let go of his hand. "If you decide you want happy for the moment, you know where to find me…"

This story is coming together in a way I'm very happy with. Dani is a little tricky and I love writing her.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Gotta Start Somewhere

Whew. What a week. We have some actual fall weather, and I love it. Who knows how long it will last. Pretty sure we'll have at least one more heat-up before December and the official start of winter.

Had another busy work week because I'm still playing catch up from being under the weather in late September. I finished a very challenging copy edit of a 95k-word manuscript. Great story with a lot going on.

Update on our doggo. She's doing so much better. She's still a little congested, but she finished her round of antibiotics and the steroid seems to be helping also. Of course, she's drinking a ton of water, which means we're going out for potty breaks about two times her normal rate.

Had a very slow viewing week. The challenging copy edit required a lot of focus. But I did make it most of the way through my regular shows.

Started again with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. Enjoyed the episode because it's one I remembered and loved on my original run through.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War and enjoyed watching again. I'd forgotten some of the key moments in this one. Sam sure struggled a bit to find another place to stay after her rooming house got bombed.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. Really glad to see Mervin figure out his mom's murder and also so happy to see Mr. Sterling Fox get his walking papers. Smarmy jerk.

Watched another episode of Poirot. I always enjoy when Miss Lemon gets involved in a case. Watching Hasting completely destroy her filing system—after she told him not to touch anything—made me laugh out loud. In his defense, he'd already halfway trashed it before he spoke to her.

Elementary had another solid episode. It's very interesting to watch Sherlock interact with Moreland. So much trauma to unpack between them.

I didn't get to check in with Batman Beyond or Lower Decks this week. I'm hoping to get a full run this upcoming week.

That's it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Gotta Start Somewhere, a novella about a couple that get to know each other on an undercover mission.

Here's the miniblurb:

Colleagues, Justine and Thatcher, work for a private security company and finally land a mission together. When things go sideways and the duo gets trapped behind the safe zone, they have to lay low and wait for an extraction. There's no better time to discover what else they might have in common.

And a snippety peek…

Thatcher settled on his bunk and did a quick memory refresh about Justine Holden. "Nice to finally get an opportunity to work with her." He didn't get a chance to know her when they went through training.

But he'd noticed her. And heard nothing but good things about Justine from others who had worked with her. She had a solid record of getting the job done.

Kicking back, he gave a nod. "Probably a good thing we didn't take the same route getting here." He'd had one relationship with another trainee that busted up soon after they finished.

He'd avoided going out with anyone else at the firm since.

Rubbing a hand over his jaw, he shrugged. "Might be time to make an exception." He liked the vibe she had.

She always greeted everyone with a quick smile and had a distinctive laugh. One that always made him wonder if he'd just missed something amazing. Maybe he'd get to find out.

He didn't know what branch of the military she'd come from, but her qualifications listed familiarity with the UCMJ. A good thing in his book … especially when traveling to another country. Sometimes things could get dicey, and having others who could operate within legal parameters counted as a bonus.

The Brownwells were a nice couple with the misfortune of having a family estate bordering directly on a drug cartel's holdings. There shouldn't be any issues, but bringing a security team in while they settled everything and sold the property would be a good move.

Thatcher wished he spoke Spanish, but knowing at least three others on the team spoke the language helped ease his mind. "Can't wait to hear more from Justine on how she operates." He'd never met anyone who could read and understand but struggled to converse.

Maybe she could teach him? He'd like an excuse to spend time with her. Who knew … if he picked up the ability to read Spanish, he might be able to add more languages to his knowledge base.

He snorted. "If I don't drive her insane trying to figure it all out." He'd have to come up with something he could teach her.

A nice tradeoff sounded pretty good right now.

Not quite sure where this one is going to go. The sages are whispering ideas that deviate from the plan … and I'm weirdly okay with that.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Gone Fishing

Hello October and welcome spooky season! I love this month for a lot of reasons. The spooky vibe being close to the top of the list, but it's quickly followed by cooler weather—usually—and that means it's soup weather! I love making soup on a cool day and savoring it with crusty breads, grilled cheese, and other creative toppings.

I'm through the worst of the yuck and back to almost normal. Of course, that means something else went sideways. In my case, our older doggo ended up with an emergency trip to the vet because her congestion got so bad her eye swelled up. She's on a steroid and broad-spectrum antibiotic and already seems to be much better already.

I'm slowly getting caught up on my work projects. I need to review the details of two new ones now that my brain isn't in sludge mode. I'm pretty excited about my last quarter of work projects for 2025.

Had an okay viewing week. I didn't quite make it through the whole slate of shows. Lower Decks and Reacher didn't make this week's window.

I did watch another episode of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. I'm working my way through season two and I'm enjoying the conflict and tension because it's a real-life quandary. I love Mac for being a voice of reason.

Caught another Foyle's War episode and this is one I'd forgotten. It's so weird how a lot of the themes of this show, which is twenty-some odd years old, are so very prevalent today. Humans are slow learners sometimes.

Death in Paradise ended up being very enjoyable. I'm really not sure about this new police commissioner other than he's way too smarmy and utter unlikable.

Poirot entertained with a way back episode showing how Hastings and Poirot kind of got their start together. Very much enjoyed this one.

Watched another episode of Elementary and quite enjoyed the twisty turns it took. Also loved Joan solving the neighbor issue. Love to see that kind of stuff.

Caught another Batman Beyond and it's one I didn't really remember either. Quite enjoyed the rewatch.

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

Here's the miniblurb:

A year after college graduation, Quaille Ramsey and Franz Herman get together with a group of their friends for a summer vacation at a state park. Quaille recently broke up with a long-time boyfriend and Franz is ready to make a move, something he never took a chance on during school. Quaille isn't quite ready for something serious but she definitely sees possibilities for the future with Franz.

And a snippety peek…

Franz walked out to the dock and dove into the clear water of the lake. With a lazy crawl, he swam to the floating pier and pulled himself up onto the boarded surface. Swiping a hand over his eyes, he gazed back toward the cabins.

"I can't believe Quaille decided to come this year." About damn time.

Having her here made him happy. She needed to find her groove again, and hopefully he'd get to make his move. Finally.

After too many years of waiting and wondering from afar.

Their friend group had been doing the state park summer vacation thing for all four years of undergrad. Quaille missed the first year due to a job commitment and the last three because her boyfriend didn't see the appeal of bonding with anyone but Quaille.

Franz snorted. "His loss." Franz couldn't ask for a better group of friends.

Especially Caitlyn Mitchell, who came through by talking Quaille into—okay, more like insisting—joining them for a fun-filled extravaganza before heading off for after-grad careers. So far, none of their group of eight had anything set in stone. Franz had two interviews scheduled with local news organizations. Caitlyn had a trial offer with a hospital. Quaille would be headed for a local theater before deciding if she wanted to pursue a master's. Trey and Wayne were going to try their luck in a neighboring state for news radio. Jazz and Miranda had contracts for costuming three plays through the end of the year. Last but not least, Chet decided to go the per diem route with a family practice until he decided what he wanted to get into.

All in all, eight people on the cusp of the next step of life.

Leaning back on his elbows, Franz chuckled. "And we're all equal parts confident and clueless." Not the best combination … but having friends to keep each other honest helped.

Trey and Caitlyn were the ringleaders—or instigators, depending on one's point of view. They organized group events, set up study sessions for finals, and always had two teams for quiz nights on campus. Supposedly, they had some kind of camp games planned for their two-week vacation at the state park.

Franz gently kicked his feet in the water. "Should be interesting if we include water battles." Fishing, swimming, and maybe kayaking … a mix of all three would keep all of them on their toes.

Did Quaille do any of the trio? Franz honestly didn't know. She could end up being a secret weapon. He could build on her fish go comment earlier. Find out if she could hold her own with a rod and reel.

He nodded. "If she's terrible at fishing, I can bolster the team." He grinned. "But if she's good … we'll trounce the competition."

Either way, it would be fun to find out.

I only have two scenes written for this one, but I'm excited to see where things go with Franz and Quaille.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: A Golden Moment

Yeah, rough week. The cold, virus, some other kind of ick from the last post definitely kicked my ass this week. I did manage one of my client calls but had to reschedule the other one. I had no voice and couldn't breathe through all the congestion. Bleh.

The good news is I'm feeling much better. I think everything kind of broke on Friday. I slept a good portion of the day on Saturday. And my head doesn't feel like it weighs ninety pounds anymore.

I got very little accomplished on my work projects last week. I got some reading done but I'll probably review to make sure I didn't miss anything in my notes. I didn't get a lot of editing completed mainly because I feared missing important things. Back to work this week at double-time.

I had an okay viewing week. Very nice to have something on in the background while I tried to focus on the few things I managed to work on.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. I loved this episode because it marked the first time Jack owned his feelings for Phryne. I also love that he didn't even consider the possibility of trying to use his feelings to change her or ask her to be something she isn't. That's one of the reasons this show holds such a big place in my heart.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. I remembered this one and appreciated how it didn't shy away from there being good and bad people and things at the beginning of the war in England.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm warming up to Wilson and I'm enjoying how Naomi is finding her footing with him. I also love Rose and ability to stumble onto exactly what they need for the case. I'm looking forward to Wilson and Naomi digging into his mother's death, which does appear to be more than a tragic accident.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. I like it when the mystery isn't a murder, but it's still twisted and tricky. And I love Hastings. Just saying.

Caught another episode of Elementary. It's kind of nice to see Sherlock interested in someone so neurodivergent. Did seem weird that Joan went middle-school student on the idea, but maybe the writers were trying to show their progression? I liked the mystery with this one.

Watched another Batman Beyond. I actually didn't remember this episode so it was nice to dive into a new-to-me story.

Enjoyed another episode of Lower Decks. I might be past the hump on the annoying factor. Great to see Boimler back with the crew and I love the reason for it. I truly do enjoy the callbacks to previous series and episodes. That's so much fun.

Finished up the episode of Reacher I started last week. I'm excited to see what this season brings. I'm also trying to remember that two plus years have passed since the last time Reacher and Neaghly were together.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from A Golden Moment, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the miniblurb:

A group of friends sets up Pam Yardley and Desmond Hyde with prospective dates, hoping to get the last two remaining single friends into committed relationships. Pam and Desmond aren't enthusiastic but only because each harbors feelings for the other but neither want to ruin their long-standing camaraderie. When their friends start pushing for serious commitment between the two couples, Pam and Desmond finally have a heart-to-heart about the future they really want.

And a snippety peek…

Desmond sat in Bobby Que's, nursing a beer while waiting on his order of the sample platter. "Never could choose one option." The three choices with three sides would give him lunch tomorrow also.

He set his mug down when he spotted Pam Yardley entering the restaurant. She stopped just inside the door and glanced around at the other patrons. Desmond almost got up to invite her to sit with him but paused when she greeted Paul, the IT tech that worked at the fire academy.

He picked his beer back up. "Damn. Should've seen that one coming." Sadly, he hadn't given Monica credit for working so fast.

Okay, not really that fast. Paul had been working at the academy for about three months. Frankly, Desmond kind of had to give Monica props for waiting as long as she had.

Of course, she'd try to play matchmaker … but why did she have to put Pam with the new guy? Pam never dated anyone. Bad breakups could do that to a person.

Which Desmond thought would give him plenty of time to win Pam over. He kind of had a thing for her. But he hesitated to act because of Monica. If he did go out with Pam and it didn't work out, he didn't want to lose friendships or have to leave his job.

Desmond had been around for the whole Chad debacle.

The server placed his entrée on the table. "Can I get you another beer?"

Des shook his head. "No, thanks. But I'd love an ice water with lemon."

Digging into the pulled pork, he chastised himself. "James wouldn't end a lifelong relationship." Not when they'd been best friends since third grade.

And while Desmond loved Monica—the perfect woman for his best friend—Monica could make anyone insane with her decisive—and sometimes divisive—opinions when things didn't work out the way she thought they should.

Case in point … if Des decided to act on his attraction for Pam, Monica would no doubt flip her shit. She'd obviously chosen Paul as the guy for her friend. And maybe he would be a good fit for Pam.

Pausing to take a long swallow of his drink, he huffed out a breath. "Just not as good as I could be." So … why didn't I throw my hat into the ring?

Yeah, hindsight sucked balls. Des didn't express interest because Pam made it clear she had zero plans to get tangled up with anyone anytime soon. He figured he could test the waters sometime in the future … after she'd had time to work through the aftermath of the breakup with Chad.

Right. Of course, Monica had the inside track on that. She would know when Pam wanted to get back on the horse. Too bad, Desmond didn't pay enough attention to the cues. He might have suggested Monica put in a good word for him.

He chuckled. "Who am I kidding? No way would I ever do that." Too many pitfalls he could stumble over there.

Because Monica would go to the mat for the people she loved … including Des. But if she thought he crossed a line—especially if it involved Pam—Monica would make his life a living hell. And Des wouldn't put James in the middle of the worst-case scenario because he'd rightfully choose his wife's side.

Shaking his head, he speared a French fry. "Better luck next time, Des." Or better luck finding someone else to go out with.

I'm not sure how this one is going to end up shaking out, but I'm excited to eventually get Desmond and Pamela together.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Going Downhill

Ugh. I'm fighting something, a cold, a virus, some other kind of ick. Not having fun with it at all. I have two client calls this week and I'm hoping I can manage both.

We got back up in the high eighties this week. Supposed to have some rain on Monday or Tuesday and I'm kind of excited for that. We definitely need it. The drought has been upgraded to moderate.

Not a bad work week. I'm almost finished with one of my work projects and making solid headway on another that should be complete by the end of October. I start a new one sometime early in October and I'm looking forward to working on that one. I'll find out if another new project will be starting on Tuesday.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Between not feeling the best and trying to finish up work projects, I didn't know if I'd be able to watch much. But I made it through my usual shows and got to watch the back-burner ones also.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and quite enjoyed the rewatch. It's one I remembered from my original run through. Being in the US, it's fun to watch how footy affects those that have a long, long history with the sport.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. This show is so well written, and I love the cast. So many super young actors who have gone on to amazing roles.

Watched a new Death in Paradise. I'm slowly coming around on Wilson. I think he might make a good addition to the team. The new police officer is also kind of growing on me. I love that he kind of came up with the solution to keeping Selwyn in his job.

Enjoyed another Poirot. Kind of leading everyone on a merry chase but keep them from going to France was very entertaining. Loved how Japp kept thinking he'd be losing his pension.

Caught another episode of Elementary. I very much like the Joan and Sherlock vibe this season. Really not sure what's going on with the stalker detective but I hope Joan watches her back.

Watched another Batman Beyond and didn't really remember this one. I have a vague memory of the conversation between Terry and Barbara but that's kind of all I remembered.

Enjoyed another episode of Lower Decks. The opener for season two ended up being entertaining. I really do appreciate the callbacks to all the other series. Fun bit with Boimler at the end.

Finished up the episode of Peak Practice I started a few weeks ago. Sam is going to be in a lot of trouble and I'm not sure I'm going to like how things go down with him.

Also finally started season two of Reacher. I'm almost finished with the first episode, but I had to pause because of the whole cold / virus / yuck thing going on. Should finish it up this week. I think the very best moment so far is the Terminator easter egg. Kudos to the writer of the episode for that!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Going Downhill, a novella that explores a former couple reuniting and getting past their previous issues.

Here's the miniblurb:

Zetta and Mace have a messy breakup and dive into relationships with other people. Five years later they bump into each other, and both are worse for being apart.

And a snippety peek…

Four years later…

Zetta walked home after turning in her notice to the magazine. "I'm so tired of taking the same pictures over and over again." Truthfully, the shine wore off the job within two years. "And now it's about not having the stones to go back home, which is where I want to be." Home being the place she ran away from five years ago.

Except she couldn't quite face the idea of returning to her old stomping grounds. Not yet.

But she couldn’t continue as she had been. After the initial honeymoon phase ended—for work and her marriage—she'd gone downhill fast. And couldn't stand the person she'd become.

Jogging up the steps, she let herself into the empty house. She had no idea where Paul went, but since she hadn't come home last night, he could be anywhere. Likely the bar around the corner … his favorite place to drink his sorrows away.

She sighed and sank down onto the sofa. "Paul doesn't deserve my shit." He’d drink himself to death within five years. “If we keep going like we are.” Which they wouldn't.

His key sounded in the lock.

He entered and stopped, both happy and defeated to see her. “Who were you with this time?” Placing his phone on the shelf by the door, he entered the living room.

Zetta shrugged. “Names aren’t important." The never were.

Paul tossed his keys on the console table. “Right. Just the hard body and stiff dick. I keep forgetting that.” He sat down across from her.

Zetta shook her head. “No, you don't.” She never boasted about her extra-curricular activities, but Paul had a solid handle on her preferences.

Because they all looked like Mace.

Paul snorted. “Yeah, I do. Five minutes after you walk in the door, I forget everything except the fact you came home.” His lip curled in disgust, hopefully at her and not at himself.

Zetta leaned forward. "What happens when I don’t, Paul? Or if I didn’t return?" She pushed her point. "What happens if I leave and don't come back?"

Paul immediately got what she tried to say. “Then I deal. I always knew we were on borrowed time, Zee. That you’d wake up sooner or later and realize you picked the wrong guy.” He paused. “The part I didn’t figure for certain was whether you’d have the courtesy to tell me when that time came or not.” He met her gaze. “Now I know.”

Zetta swallowed hard. The defeat in his voice kicked her guilty conscience hard. Deservedly so. She’d done this to a man who should be happy with a wife and kids.

She moved off the chair and settled in beside Paul. “I’m sorry, Paul, You deserve so much more and so much better than me.” She rested her head on his shoulder.

Paul put an arm around her. “I know, but I couldn't walk away. I'd never do that to any woman, not after what my mom went through.”

Zetta lifted her face. “It’s not fair to you, though. And instead of you walking away from me, can we maybe look at this as me setting you free?” Because she needed to let him go; so he could find someone worthy of him.

He pressed a kiss to her temple. “We can do that, Zetta. I won’t fight a divorce, but I’m staying out here.” He shifted and turned to face her. “I’m assuming you’ll be headed back east?”

Zetta didn’t commit, because she hadn’t thought that far ahead. “Honestly? I have no idea where I’ll end up." Maybe she would make it home and maybe she wouldn't. "And, oddly, I’m totally okay with that."

This one is challenging in a way that I really like. The characters are messy and not completely where they need to be as people. I like writing this type of story.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin