Sunday Snippet: The Ex Files

I seriously can't believe I'll be moving my daughter into her dorm in three weeks. It's coming up fast! She's very excited and I think I have almost everything she needs to be prepared for the daily masking, temperature taking, and hand sanitizing she's going to have to do.

On a super-positive note, I found an app that will let me not only brainstorm but will translate the long-form handwritten brainstorming I've done into text! This is true game changer for me. I'm so, so, so excited.

Had a semi-slow week for watching shows. I made some serious progress on getting my office cleared and organized. I'm almost ready to add a bookcase or two. I've been a little light on work projects so this is a terrific time to get the tedious sort, sort, sorting accomplished.

I did get to watch another episode of Peak Practice. I'm about midway through the second season and I have a sneaking suspicion someone will be leaving at the end of this one.

Also rewatched the second episode of Ms. Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries. I truly love this spinoff.

Caught "The Sontaren Experiment" episodes of Classic Who. It's a lot of fun to visit Sarah Jane way back when. I miss Elisabeth a lot.

Watched episode four of Picard. I'm trying to figure out what the captain's deal is. All of his holographs are versions of himself? I kind of love it but also really wonder about it.

Got a few more episodes of Danger Man in, both ones I didn't remember. I thoroughly enjoyed each.

Also watched another compilation of Cirque du Soleil shows. I honestly can't fathom how the performers do what they do. I'm always, always amazed at their ability. And the costumers and makeup artists along with the musicians pull everything together. It's mind-blowing.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from The Ex Files, a novella where my main characters fall for each other while trying to help each other out with their exes.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Effie Stone helps Reed Rettos avoid an ugly scene with his ex-girlfriend and halfway falls for him over coffee. When an old flame contacts Effie, she asks Reed to return the favor. Reed hesitates, not sure he wants to get tangled up in more drama, but he's very smitten with Effie and agrees to make it clear she's got a new man in her life … even if only for a night.

And a snippety peek…

Reed quirked an eyebrow. "Not a morning person?" He pushed his to-go cup to the side of the table.

Effie shrugged. "Depends on my schedule." She nodded toward his cup. "If I'm keeping you, please let me know."

Reed smiled. "I've got time. Just finished my shift at station house seventeen." Talking to Effie kept his tired mind off the craziness of the previous day and night.

She tilted her head. "Firefighter?" Her gaze assessed him.

Reed bobbed his head. "Yeah, paramedic, too. We had nonstop calls yesterday and all night last night." He yawned and took a sip from his mug.

Effie winced. "Ugh. Sorry. And here I am keeping you from maybe getting some sleep." She put her hand on his. "No wonder you looked ready to drop when your ex showed up."

Reed rolled his eyes. "Eh, I'm catching my second wind right now. And Gianne's a nice girl but high maintenance and drama is her go-to mode." She also hated his twenty-four on, forty-eight off shifts.

Effie's lips quirked. "I know the type. I teach art at the local college. I can't tell you how many students, male and female, think they have to be almost manic in their approach to their assignments." She shook her head. "Art doesn't require anything more than a love for creating, but they all seem to think they have to infuse drama into my life to get passing grades." She made a strangled sound of disgust.

Reed wanted to know more. "How many classes do you teach?" He'd never met an artist but he enjoyed strolling through galleries.

Effie brightened. "Currently, only one." She picked up her mug and took a sip. "I've got a private commission I'm working on for the planetary society so I cut back my coursework." Her smile had a hint of pride.

Reed's eyes widened. "Wow. I'm impressed." And definitely interested, which he shouldn't be.

Not after a pretty crappy breakup.

But Reed couldn’t resist learning a little more about Effie Stone. And he spent the following hour comparing notes about their different fields of work. By the time they ran out of things to say, the pre-lunch crowd started filling the booths and tables around them.

Effie checked her phone. "Argh. I really need to get going. I'm working with the director of the society today; making sure his vision matches mine." She gathered her coat and satchel.

Reed stuck his hand out to halt her progress. "Seriously, I'm in your debt. Thanks again." He wouldn't mind another opportunity to see her again.

Effie settled back down, tilting her head to one side. "If you're serious about maybe paying me back, I might have a way." Her lips quirked. "You're not the only one with a persistent ex who can't accept the reality of a breakup." She met his gaze. "Mine likes to stop by on Saturday mornings, really early, and tries to get me to let him in." A small shudder went through her. "He's harmless but a major pain in the ass when my neighbors are trying to sleep in."

That would make Reed crazy. "What can I do to help?"

She gave him a sheepish look. "It's a lot to ask, but would you be willing to maybe open the door this Saturday?"

Reed blinked. Not at all what he expected. Nervous tension filled the space between them.

He gave an honest answer. "I'd be willing, but it might be a hard sell." Or not … because, yeah, he had an active imagination.

Effie laughed. "Oh, I don't think so. He's been gone for over a week on a road trip with his hockey team. More than enough time for me to have met someone." She paused a moment. "I find you extremely attractive and, unless I miss my guess, you find me the same, right?"

Oh, hell, yes. "Definitely." Still … he hesitated.

Effie reached into a pouch on the side of her bag. "Look, here's my number. Call me if you think you'd be up for returning the favor." She waggled her eyebrows. "Fake lip-lock or not."

Reed took the card and returned the gesture. "Here's mine. Give me a day or two to make sure my schedule is clear and we'll see what we can do."

She flashed a bright smile. "Can't ask for more than that. Take care." With a waggle-fingered wave, she made her way to the entrance and exited the diner.

Reed studied her business card for a moment, tucked it into his pocket, then left the diner with a quick nod to the waitress.

I kind of love this meet-up. Reed and Effie will have some tension-filled fun on their next meeting.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Enforced Confinement

Wow, half of July is gone and I'm trying to get my office organized and figure out how we're going to get my daughter moved into her dorm. If she can even move into the place. The clear out and organization is going better than expected. I ordered several types of smaller bookcases and some drawers to help corral all the crap I've had surrounding me for close to a decade. It's way past time.

I didn't get a ton of television watched this week but I do have a few updates. First, I'm still having feels about Arrow's final episode. There might be more coming about the series as a whole at some point.

Caught Roswell, New Mexico and honestly truly enjoyed the episode, "I'll Stand by You." The entire cast got some solid screen time and that makes me very happy. Special kudos for Michael and Isabel's arc and I loved Kyle telling Liz she's family because he gets what she means now. I'm starting to truly appreciate the complexities of the characters' interactions. So good.

Watched the penultimate episode of Strike Back and, damn, the cast brought their A games. Seriously, every single moment had me on the edge of my seat. The crazy fight between Coltrane and Wyatt topped the list because the size difference is almost comical but the entire point wasn't lost on me. The trio needed to clear the air and that was the best way to do it. And I'll freely admit I absolutely loved Chetri's journey. I love that she pretty gave a giant middle finger to her captors and that her end didn't happen before the team arrived. Another huge eff you to the antagonists. Excellent viewing. Seriously.

Started another new episode of Blue Heelers and this one is off the charts crazy. Different from the usual and I like that.

Began a rewatch of Hollywood Dirt, a Passionflix original. I love the chemistry between the actors and I also appreciate the fact that the casting department will go back to actors who are terrific.

Caught several episodes of Danger Man and both were ones I don't remember watching. Each ended up being terrific.

That's pretty much my week in a nutshell. Tonight's post is from Enforced Confinement, a novella that puts the main characters together to figure out their drama.

Here's the mini-blurb:

After a breakup, Baylee and Noah get trapped in a confined space and neither is happy about the situation. But the enforced intimacy gives them a chance to meet their issues head on in a place they can't take each other for granted.

And a snippety peek…

Noah didn't stop pacing when the door opened. He had a good head of anger roiling and ready to spill over. A quick glance showed Baylee with her clothes rumpled and damp, no doubt from making a mad dash in the blowing rain.

It also showed her holding her keys and phone.

He rolled his eyes. "Now you've got your phone." Taking a deep, calming breath, he spun to face her. "I'll assume you didn't have it earlier when I called and texted from Ben's party?" A splash of red stained her cheeks.

She set the items on the table by his door. "I left it on my desk." She didn't have to add the again.

Noah snorted. "Ben's cake looked incredible, by the way. You'll be sorry you missed it." The thin wire holding all the hurt and disappointment back stretched taut.

Bailey's shoulders slumped. "I already am. It's been a day." She started toward the living room but paused when Noah didn't budge from his spot.

He gave a slow nod. "Yeah, it has. Did you get a load of that storm? I mean we had plans, right?" He planted his hands on his hips. "So of course I'm concerned when you don't show up. Then I can't get a hold of you either on your cell or at the office … because why?" He dug his phone out of his pocket. "Oh, that's right, because you got an emergency call and forgot your phone and you're headed home soon." He shoved the phone toward her. "Don't get me wrong. It's great you finally decided to let me know you weren't dead on the freeway, but check out the time there … almost two hours after Ben's party." Looking at the time on the screen, he shook his head. "And it's almost forty-five minutes since I got your message." Which, okay, made sense, but his rational brain ceased functioning when he left Ben's party.

Baylee stepped back, her jaw clenching. "You remember the storm, right? Meaning it took me for fucking ever to get here. And before you get started, let me rephrase my earlier statement. It's been a bitch of a day and I'm not here for a fight." She closed her eyes and sighed. "I really want to get out of these wet clothes and go to bed." She met his gaze. "I'm sorry about tonight. What more do you want from me?"

Noah wanted to be understanding, but they'd been down this road so often the ruts had ruts on them. "Maybe a little consideration? Honestly, Bay, if common courtesy is too much effort, why do you even stick around?" He immediately regretted the question but couldn't snatch it back.

And maybe he didn't want to … because not knowing where they stood wrecked him.

I have to say I really like writing this one. I had an idea to take a couple through a breakup then eventually get them back together but didn't know if I could keep the flow going. So far, so good.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Elective Campaign

I spent the past week wondering where half the year has gone quickly followed by feeling like it's been a decade since January. Anyone else have that experience? It's kind of insane how weird this year has been.

I did get a few shows watched while I worked on several projects. I had a week where I wanted some good background noise and got multiple episodes of Danger Man in. I truly enjoy this classic show.

I also started another episode of Blue Heelers. I'm almost through the second season of the show and I'm enjoying how things get changed up. I also love seeing how rural Australia is portrayed.

Have almost all of Riverdale's "Tangerine" in the watched column. Man, lots of reveals and good stuff in this episode. As much as I loathe and dislike Hiram, I kind of loved how Veronica sticks it to him. That said, I dread her storyline revolving around one-upping her dad all the time … if that's the direction the story goes in. Cheryl's situation with her mummy dearest ended up being a load of fun to watch. Archie's vigilantism biting him on the ass ended up being better than I thought it would be. Also loved Jughead finally getting to the bottom of the whole deal with his grandfather and the mystery books. And Betty … not quite sure how I feel about everything going on with her. I do have a theory about who's doing what to whom and I can't wait to see if I'm right.

Last but not least … I finally watched "Fadeout", the finale of Arrow. I have to say I couldn't have asked for a better end to the series. I'm so sad to see this chapter of the Arrowverse close but I'm also thrilled to have been a part of the experience from the very beginning. I got to watch the characters grow and change and become who and what they're meant to be. I think my favorite thing about this whole season are the callbacks to previous seasons and the cavalcade of familiar faces from the past—seriously, I don't think they missed anyone—and how they made Oliver's send-off worth its weight in green arrows. The fadeout with Oliver and Felicity in Moira's office ended up being pretty much a perfect endcap to the entire series. My glass is raised and my pile of tissues is testament to the emotional journey I took with the cast and crew of one of my very favorite shows ever.

Whew. I'm actually getting a kick in the feels all over again.

And that's a good note to wrap up television for this week. Tonight's post is from Elective Campaign, a novella that's been a lot of fun to write, especially the mother / daughter relationship.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Mac is running for reelection and needs a logistical planner on his roster to win. Yancy has the training and background but she presents a problem … Mac is very attracted to her. They fight the pull but give in and once it's discovered, he might lose more than the election.

And a snippety peek…

Mac exited his vehicle outside the municipal building and nearly collided with a stunning woman. "Whoa." He grasped her elbow, making sure she didn't lose her balance. "Sorry about that. Is there something I can help you with?" He definitely didn't recognize the beauty.

Her brows furrowed. "Uh, maybe. I'm looking for the municipal court." She waved a piece of paper. "I got a speeding ticket and would like to pay the fine." Her cheeks colored a little.

Mac inclined his chin. "Ah, the court is on the lower level. I'll walk you around. I'm stopping in to see the city attorney anyway." The converted school building served as city hall and housed the municipal court. "I take it you're not from around here?" She couldn't be if she didn't know the odd setup of the building.

She shook her head. "No, I'm from Illinois." She didn't add more but fell into step beside him. "Nice little city here."

His chest puffed out a little. "Thanks. I'll pass that along to the city council. We've got a meeting later tonight." He loved hearing praise from nonresidents.

She tilted her head. "You're on the council?" She gave him a slow once-over.

His lips quirked. "Not on the council, no. I'm the mayor." He stuck out his hand. "Mac Davison." He chuckled when her eyes widened.

She grasped his palm. "Yancy Malloy, alleged speed demon." Her lips curved. "I missed the lower limit posted just outside the city limits. Got caught going fifty-seven in a fifty zone."

Mac chuckled. "I'll bet Deputy Stonemark wrote your ticket. He's a stickler for enforcing the speed limit close to the traffic ramps." The ordinance passed two years ago to help with the lake quadrant project.

Yancy nodded. "He would be the one, yes. He was very kind about the whole thing. Said I could come and pay the fine today, so here I am."

They'd reached the entrance to the municipal court. Mac almost hated to end the conversation. Something about Yancy Malloy sparked his interest.

He opened the door and ushered her inside with a sweep of his arm. "If you head straight down this hall, you'll find the clerk's office. Someone there will be happy to help you settle your fine." He paused by the short set of stairs leading to the law director's office. "It was nice meeting you, Ms. Malloy."

She gave him a wide smile. "It's Yancy, and very nice to meet you too." She headed toward the clerk's office.

Mac only spent about five minutes with the city attorney, dropping off some zoning committee questions for the council meeting. He trotted down the stairs and almost bumped into Yancy again.

She flashed a quick grin. "We need to stop meeting like this."

He laughed. "I take it you're all set then?" He couldn't believe his lucky timing.

She nodded. "Quick and painless … except for the hit to my bank account." She started toward the exit.

He quickly followed. "Would you mind if I walked along with you? I'm headed back to the upper parking lot too."

She gave him a shy sideways glance. "Not at all. Pleasant company is always welcome."

He got a kick of the low-key flirting they were engaged in. When they reached the sidewalk leading to the parking lot, a teenage girl hopped off the hood of a car, waving two bags of takeout.

"Mom! You'll never believe it. They have a quaint Victorian house that's been turned into a restaurant. It's gorgeous."

Mac's heart sank a little. It never occurred that Yancy might be married. And from the looks of her daughter, she would've been very young when it happened.

He recovered quickly. "English Charm. Best chicken salad sandwiches on the planet." He pointed to the east. "The family's owned the house for generations."

Yancy grinned and took a bag from her daughter. "And you're in love with the place, aren't you?" She gave her daughter an indulgent smile.

The girl gave an eager nod. "This is such a cool town, Mom. We should think about staying here." She shot Mac a side-eye. "Who's your new friend?" Curiosity filled her tone.

Mac liked her. The teenager had vibrancy and sass but didn't cover it up with lots of attitude. She also had respectful air about her.

Yancy quirked an eyebrow. "This is the mayor, Mac Davison." She glanced in his direction. "Mr. Davison, this is my daughter, Vivian."

Vivian thrust her hand outward. "Viv, please. Vivian is usually reserved for when I do something exasperating." She shot Yancy a smirk.

Charmed beyond measure, Mac shook hands with Viv. "It's nice to meet you." He picked up the thread she'd dropped earlier. "Did you mention something about staying? Are you considering a move from Illinois?" He directed the last part of the question to Yancy.

Viv answered. "We're settling somewhere in Ohio, just don't know where yet." She waved her bag and headed for the car. "I'm starved. Drinks are inside, Mom. But don't rush." She met Mac's gaze. "Mom and I aren't in a big hurry and we have no one else to worry about." With a head tilt and sly grin, she ducked inside the vehicle and closed the door.

Yancy heaved a sigh and shook her head. "My daughter lacks any kind of subtlety, as you've probably figured out." Her cheeks bloomed with color again.

Mac chuckled. "Her roundabout way of informing me you're single?" He really hoped so.

Yancy snorted. "Not so roundabout, but, yes. I've always been single. And, yes, to answer your earlier question, we're making a move. I have some extended family here in Ohio."

Mac stuck a foot on the lower rung of the wood fence and folded his forearms on his knee. "Are they close by?"

She shook her head. "Not really. And we're not all that close, but I loved visiting when I was a kid. Viv and I needed a change of scenery and she's all for the adventure."

Mac hoped they'd consider sticking around. He wouldn't be doing his due diligence if he didn't make an attempt to garner new residents.

Reaching into his pocket, he withdrew his wallet and fished out a card. "Sheri Campbell is our chamber of commerce director." She also happened to be his step-sister. "Give her a call and she'll get you set up with a place to stay … if you're really interested in sticking around." He handed the card over to Yancy.

Sheri loved helping new people get their bearings.

Yancy eyed the card. "I might just do that." With a smile, she turned and headed for her car. "It really was nice meeting you."

Mac waited until her vehicle left the parking lot before he whipped out his phone and made a quick call to his step-sister.

I like Viv and Yancy's relationship. They're close but not completely in each other's pockets. Mac adds a really fun layer to their dynamic too.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Drowning Pull

Well, July is off to a roaring start. Daughter's graduation party is scheduled for today and I'm hoping we have a good turnout but also spaced out over the three hours of the party. I'm filling out my blog post early and getting it ready to post beforehand.

Had a semi-busy week between work and the party prep, but I did get some solid television watched. I started out with Ms. Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries. This is a rewatch for me but I love the show.

Also caught another arc of Classic Who. The four-part Ark in Space episodes. Not a bad group.

Watched another episode of The Witcher and, ouch, kind of a heartbreaker episode. I did totally love the dragons though. Looking forward to the next episode.

Caught two more season three episodes of Danger Man. I don't remember either of them so I enjoyed watching.

And that's it for this week. I should have more time next week to dive into some of the shows I'm behind on. And I have to watch the finale of Arrow. I'll have at least two boxes of tissues on hand. Just saying.

Tonight's post is from Drowning Pull, a novella that is coming along nicely. The twists and turns are set and progress is happening.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Lane Addison drowns his grief over losing his brother in alcohol, until a blonde distraction sits down beside him. Injured and off the circuit, Weslee decides to have a pity party for one until she sees someone deeper in the well than she is. A hot hookup later, Lane thinks he's found the perfect woman in Weslee, until she mentions her fiancé.

And a snippety peek…

Weslee Thorn caught major air on her last run. Snowboarding competitions gave her nothing but joy. She did her final spin, going one hundred eighty degrees and glimpsed Brad Young, her fiancé, standing next to Barbie Quantro. Too close. Weslee's number one rival getting all cozy with her hockey-playing man? Not remotely cool.

Weslee lost focus and tilted, just a little, enough to throw off her finish. She landed off-kilter, twisted hard to the side, but couldn't recover. She went down, landing on her knee, wrenching it sideways. The pain tore through her and she gasped, unable to move, too scared to shift position. One wrong maneuver could end her career.

An event worker dashed to her side. "Weslee? Josh Trombo. You okay?" He crouched down, assessing her position.

Weslee jerked her head back and forth, her teeth chattering. Josh signaled for the medics and tried to support her awkward position.

He leaned in close so the onlookers wouldn't overhear. "I'm not gonna try to move you or remove your board. Can you hang in there?" He held her gaze, his filled with sympathy.

Weslee nodded, still unable to speak. Tears streamed down her face, warming her cold cheeks. Josh kept talking, using soothing tones and kept an eye out for the medical team.

The medics arrived and carefully splinted her leg before removing her board. They got her onto a stretcher and lifted her, ready to carry her to an ambulance.

Weslee found her voice, squeezing Josh's hand. "Thank you." She gave him a wobbly smile.

He managed a quick nod. The medics carried her forward through the crowd of spectators. While they gave her a round of applause, Weslee looked for Brad. Her gaze scanned the passing faces. She spotted Barbie, standing by the scoreboard and then Brad's face came into view.

He put a hand against her cheek. "Hey, sweetness, I'm here." He reached down and clasped her palm.

Weslee had a twinge of relief and kind of hated herself for it. Brad would be there for her. Of course. Not his fault women flocked to him in droves. She had her fair share of men trying to get close to her too.

Loaded in the back of the ambulance, she heaved a frustrated sigh. She wouldn't place at this event or if she did, it would be on the low end. Brad climbed in, but held the door open, playing to the gathered crowd until they stopped taking pictures. Only then did he sit by her side and let the medics head out.

Weslee rolled her eyes and bit back a nasty retort. Brad never missed a chance to get his name and face in the news and on social media. She could imagine the tweets later today. Brad Young bravely leaves event with his fiancé Weslee Thorn after she wipes out on the course.

He dragged his phone out and spared her a glance. "You'll be fine, babe. No worries."

Weslee didn't argue, but the ache in her knee said otherwise. She'd be lucky if she got the all clear to compete again this season.

Didn't that suck balls?

I loved writing this scene. Weslee is fun and she'll have some interesting choices to make soon.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Drag Out the List

June is coming to a close and I can honestly say this feels like the longest effing year while at the same time the days are flying off the calendar. It's bizarre and baffling. 2020 is probably going to go down as the year I want to forget but won't be able to. LOL

Rather slow week of television but I did get a few things watched. I started with Kings of Broadway, a charity program on YouTube. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

Started season three of Danger Man and thought it would be color episodes, but it's not yet. Enjoyed the first episode.

Caught another episode of Strike Back and Strike Back Declassified. I've only got two episodes left and then I'll have to start a rewatch because I love these characters so much.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and look forward to seeing how it ends. I like this Aussie drama and have a feeling I'll be seeing a lot of familiar faces.

Watched another episode of Gargoyles. It's one I don't remember so it was nice to have something to sink into. I think I'm about a third of the way through the second season.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Drag Out the List, a novella that's coming along nicely.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Velma and Kade have loads of sexual tension, but Velma keeps him at arm's length. Kade gets the why, but when she pushes him a little too far he turns the tables on her and she ends up in a compromising position—number seventeen on his list.

And a snippety peek…

Kade finished scraping the paint from the window in his bedroom. Screaming pink and some kind of marbled fuchsia and gold gave him a headache. Dee loved bright colors. Turquoise, hot yellow, sunny orange, and bright lime green rounded out the decorating scheme of the apartment. He'd asked Jim about it and the man chuckled.

He nodded toward the alley. "If you look in the garage, there's enough sandy gray to repaint the entire interior." He leaned in and lowered his voice. "I figured we'd have to redo the apartment before we could even dream of selling the place. We're lucky you saw past the blinding riot and made an offer."

Kade could kiss Jim for having the foresight to buy a nice beachy neutral. The color looked great in various lights and would give him a good backdrop to add some color. Nothing flashy like Dee's cavalcade of retina-twitching options, but a mix of blues and some pops of green and maybe a splash of red would work well. He thanked his interior designer mother for instilling a sense of good taste in him from an early age.

Putting the putty knife aside, he stood before the window. He loved the sound of the waves drifting onto the shoreline. The water appealed to him. Lake, ocean, river, didn't matter as long as the sound made it to his ears.

Making the move south ended up being a good fit. Okay, he'd only been official for two weeks, but he'd accomplished a lot during his brief tenure. Yeah, he still needed to move his furniture in, but the futon mattress worked as a bed for now. Painting came first, then the big stuff could come in. The most important detail had been covered. The ice cream shop belonged to him. No partners, no personality clashes, no nightmare dissolving of assets. He'd never been married, but he'd bet a divorce settlement would have taken less skin off his hide.

From this point on, sole proprietorship only. At least in his professional life.

"Now the personal … that's something else entirely."

His friendly neighbor piqued his interest. He looked forward to getting to know her better. She didn't give off a married vibe, but maybe she had a boyfriend. He rather hoped not. Easy on the eyes, a killer smile, and loads of curves made her a winning combination. He liked women who were fit but not to the point they were all angles and sharp planes. Velma had toned arms and legs paired with soft rounded hips, which he loved. Her ass looked damned good in shorts. She'd had her hair in a messy bun on top of her head and her eyes showed a range of emotions not to mention a lot of intelligence. Velma definitely caught his attention.

After a quick look at the time, he stripped his shorts off and entered the small bathroom to grab a shower. "No stinky pits for dinner." Humming an old crooner classic, he washed the sweat and paint flecks off then stood under the spray letting the hot water hit the kinks in his shoulders.

Physical labor kept him in good shape along with walks or runs along the beach. He'd put in a lot of extra work during the two weeks he'd been down here and his muscles were protesting. When the water started cooling, he shut the shower off and quickly toweled dry. Digging through his supply of clothing, he snagged a pair of blue cargo shorts and a brand-new white T-shirt. On his way out, he grabbed a sky blue twill button-up and tossed it over his shoulder. Slipping his feet into a nicer pair of his athletic slides, he started across the small thoroughfare separating their back entrances. The smell of grilled chicken seasoned with some kind of spicy mix hit his nostrils and his mouth watered. Eating out had advantages—no clean up—and takeout proved convenient. But he couldn't wait to have a nice, quiet dinner with a beautiful woman. He missed having a good conversation along with his meal.

When he ducked through the well-maintained opening to Velma's patio, his heart sank. She had company…

A tall guy who had the look of a longtime native.

Didn't that suck big ones?

I loved writing this scene. Working in Dee's interior design scheme had me chuckling while I typed.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Down the Middle

June 21, 2020

I can't believe there's only one more week and a few days of June left. This year seems to be flying by so fast—even with a pandemic and social distancing.

Slow week of television again but a good one for client phone calls. I have a couple if potentially interesting new projects to be excited about.

I did finish up Danger Man with the last few episodes of season two. I'll be starting the color episodes this week along with the new title of Secret Agent. Should be fun.

I also got through the Riverdale episode I started last week and, surprisingly, it got better. I kind of understand where Alice came from but it still annoys me to no end. Veronica's savage takedown of Hiram made my week. I also ended up really enjoying the Cheryl session with the guidance counselor—whoever tagged Gina Torres for that role deserves a raise. I'm very intrigued by the cutaway end scenes. If not for my absolute complete and utter loathing of Hiram, I would be so set to keep watching this show. As it is, I literally hate that character so much, I'll probably only skim through the season.

I caught another episode of Roswell, New Mexico and thoroughly enjoyed it. I like Alex and Michael working as a team without the usual UST between them. Having them become actual friends is a great thing and I'm totally there to watch that happen. Loved having the former Max back as a Mains ancestor. Here's hoping he'll be available for more flashback scenes. I like where Isabel is headed and love what she did for Arturo and Liz. Also loved, loved, loved Kyle's scenes with his mom. I'm not quite sure how I feel about the dean's daughter storyline, but I'm down with whatever happens. I kind of have a tiny hope Kyle ends up hooking up with Cameron at some point … but that's only if Jessie doesn't have her abducted. I totally don't believe he's been shackled by anyone or anything. In fact, I'd lay odds he's the actual private security firm's leader. That's my prediction and I'm sticking to it.

Last but not least, I watched another episode of Peak Practice. I've been staying with the chronological order for now and I'm working my way through the second season. Should have it finished up within the month. I hope.

And that's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Down the Middle, a novella that's coming along with my bounty hunters finally figuring things out.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Bounty hunter Ursa Goode always gets her man … if Jake Weatherwax doesn't beat her to him. But when a target escapes and comes after her, Ursa has to take Jake up on his offer to work together and split the reward right down the middle. The need for a partner rubs her wrong, but Jake definitely doesn't.

And a snippety peek…

Ursa entered the illegal club and scanned the entry and exit points. "Two ways in and out." And probably a hidden egress or two in case the cops came calling.

She'd burned half a dozen favors getting intelligence on Llewellyn. Didn't matter. She'd call in whatever marks she had left then beg, borrow, or blackmail if those ran out.

The thumping bass line of the dance music fueled her adrenaline. Her instincts indicated her informants had done her a solid. This place represented a smorgasbord for someone like Cavil. He'd be frothing to get his hands on something young, comely, and eager for a little danger in their life. Male, female, nonbinary, gay, straight … Cavil didn't care what label the package wrapped itself in; he sought someone pliable and willing to walk a wild edge.

She made a vow. "Not tonight, asshole." She wanted to put him down this time.

Making her way through the throng of bodies crowding the makeshift club, she finally elbowed her way to the bar. The location afforded her a view of everything; the dance floor, the rafters, the DJ booth, and the exits. Only the facilities were out of her sight.

She pointed to a bottle of vodka and lifted her chin. The bartender pulled it down and poured her a shot, sliding the glass in front of her. She downed the liquid and relished the burn it made down her throat.

When she flashed a ten, the bartender shook his head. "First one's on the house. And when I get a looker like you, the tab's open." He waggled his eyebrows.

Ursa rolled her eyes, but stayed friendly. "Just the one. I'm waiting for someone." He didn't need to know she didn't want a hookup.

And who knew … if she took care of business, she might end up needing a hard, hot body to celebrate with. The bartender definitely fit the bill. Built but not jacked up, he'd be worth pursuing if she didn't have other plans.

He gave her a slow once-over. "Let me know if you change your mind." His graceful acceptance put him up another notch in her book.

She winked. "Will do." She turned and propped her elbows on the bar behind her and scanned the crowd.

So much movement between the bodies writhing on the floor to the spectators either watching or scoring their own brand of entertainment. Ursa glanced up to the rafters, clocking more than a few groups conducting shady deals. Probably a hefty payday up there if she were inclined to check. She only wanted one cash out tonight.

Cavil. Her gut said he hadn't arrived yet. She'd wait … not so patiently.

Two hours later, the hairs on the back of her neck rose and her waiting game ended. She caught sight of Llewellyn when he slid in from the back door. He hadn't changed all that much. A little heavier and with longer hair, he still had close-set, hooded eyes. Why would that change? His eyes were something she'd never forget. And the fact she'd have to look into them again kicked her rage up into the red zone.

She pushed away from the counter and followed Llewellyn but kept a good distance between them. If his tactics held true, the bastard would pick someone in the first ten minutes of his arrival then stalk his prey until close to closing. For an illegal place like this, dawn would be breaking before the DJ played the last song.

Ursa shook her head. "Gonna be a long night." But she'd watch and wait.

I'm pleased with how this story is finally coming together. After a long brainstorming session, I've got the flow nailed down and the action figured out.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Dodging Bullets

So far, June is shaping up to be a weird month. Work has slowed way down, which isn't an all bad thing. I've been very fortunate to have a steady flow when so many others have been furloughed or, worse, completely lost their job. That said, it's weird to have time on my hands so I'm hitting projects I've been putting off for ages. It's kind of wonderful and scary all at the same time.

Hit or miss week with television viewing. I haven't been watching as much as I normally do, mainly because I've been doing a good bit of writing. I did catch another episode of Danger Man. Almost finished with the second season.

I caught the penultimate episode of Arrow. Green Arrow and the Canaries ended up being more entertaining than I thought it would be. I'd watch the new version if it comes around.

Also started another episode of Riverdale. I'll be honest, I'm probably done after this season. Alice came such a long way and now she's back to being her obnoxiously overbearing self. I had so hoped she'd maintain her character growth. Bleh.

That's pretty much it for this week. Tonight's post is from Dodging Bullets, a novella that's coming along with main characters that have a long history.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Sable and Gage live on the same street and survive their childhood by having each other's backs. When they grow up, they're still looking out for each other, but instead of ducking verbal barbs and flying objects, they're dodging bullets instead.

And a snippety peek…

Sable couldn't believe Gage followed her. When Betty found out, she'd go batshit on Gage's ass. Then blame Sable.

Again.

She grabbed another box of T-shirts. "Your mom is gonna flip her shit when she finds out you followed me." She dumped the box and shoved half over toward Gage.

He shrugged. "She's been in full-on bitch mode for months now. This isn't going to make her any worse." He sorted through the shirts, lining them up in a pile. "I wish I knew why she spiraled all the time." Deftly, he folded the tee in front of him.

Sable had a solid idea why Betty Waterson hated her life. But … what would telling Gage accomplish? At fifteen, would he want to know intimate details about his mother's life before Prescott?

Knowing why his mom hated Sable could help him understand. Or … it could cost Sable the one person—aside from Bernie and Prescott—who helped keep her sane. Her gut said Gage wouldn't walk away … and she hoped he wouldn't.

Pausing mid-fold, she angled around, resting her butt on the workspace. "You might want to cut your mom a break." It almost pained her to say those words.

Gage stopped, his gaze flying to hers. "Why the hell would you want me to?" He grabbed a stool and sat upon it.

Sable shrugged. "My grandma filled me in on some things last night. You know my dad wrote most the The Bangers songs, right?" Ivan had a gift with words.

Gage folded his arms across his chest. "Yeah, so?" His eyes narrowed but he didn't say more.

Sable absently flicked specks of imaginary lint off the cotton fabric. "Their very first hit, the one that put them on the road to stardom, was 'Elizabeth is Calling'." She swallowed hard, kind of wishing she hadn't started the conversation. "Know who he wrote that one for?" Gradually, she raised her gaze to meet his.

His face showed confusion first, then a dawning realization, then disbelief.

He shook his head. "No effing way. You're saying my mom is the Elizabeth in the song?" He got up, pacing with agitated steps.

Sable nodded. "According to my grandma, my dad and your mom were a hot item back in the day. They broke up when Betty went to school because my dad put everything he had into the band and getting them a record deal and setting up live shows. He wrote the song as wish fulfillment or something like that." She paused, because her brain still struggled to imagine her dad with Gage's mom.

Gage stopped walking. "What does this have to do with anything?" He went back to striding back and forth.

Sable sighed. "Apparently, when the song hit big, your mom came home on break hoping to pick back up with my dad." She stopped again, hating the next part.

Gage huffed out a breath. "Sable, you can't not tell me the rest." He sat down again, bracing his hands on the edge of the stool.

She blew out a long breath. "She came home too late. Because the week before, my dad met Bianca and ended up marrying her and taking her on tour with the band." The one and only time Ivan got drunk, according to Grandma Zelma. "And that's why your mom hates—hated—my dad. And my mom."

Gage shook his head. "And, what? That gives her a pass to hate you too. Why should I cut her a break for that?"

Sable's eyes filled. "Because she's your mom and even though Bianca sucked at being a parent, she's never coming back and I wouldn't wish that on anyone." The tears overflowed and she dashed them away.

Gage came up off the stool and hauled her against him. "Dammit, Sable. I'm sorry for making you cry. But it's not fair. The way she treats you." He eased away, gently cupping her chin. "I'll try to be more understanding, though. Even when I want to smash things when she's yelling at my dad and us all the time."

Sable gave him a small smile. "Thanks. Trying is good." She held his gaze, tingles of awareness running through her.

A first for her. She hugged Gage and Garth all the time, but not like this … being held, comforted, and … cared for by Gage seemed so different.

The moment stretched out and the air in the room shifted. Gage's eyes turned darker and his grip tightened on her chin. His head drifted toward hers and Sable's breath hitched in her throat…

Garth burst into the room. "Gage, bro, you gotta get home. Mom's ready to call the entire precinct in to find you." He stopped short. "What's going on? Why're you all up close and personal with Sable?" He cocked his head to one side. "And why's she crying?"

Gage rolled his eyes. "Why do you think, dumbass?" His gaze met hers, a silent communication passing between them. "She's still a little sad about her parents." Pulling away, he squeezed her hands. "I'd better go, but I'll see you later." His tone held a wealth of promise.

Sable nodded again, unable to form words. She moved aside, letting Gage pass by her, and stood alone in the room when he left with Garth.

Her fingers brushed over her chin where Gage's had been. If Garth hadn't interrupted when he did, I would've had my first kiss. And she wouldn't have minded one little bit.

I love this story and how it's coming together. Gage and Sable are fun characters and the family drama is a treat to write.

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin