Sunday Snippet: Lucky Seven

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a snippety peek…

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

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

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

We can keep this casual, right?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I could get used to this…

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

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Lucky Man

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a snippety peek…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Lost and Found

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a snippety peek…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Lose Control

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's the miniblurb:

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

And a snippety peek…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Lonely Heart Mountain

Whew! Busy week, which I love. My youngest kidlet got engaged last weekend and we've been riding that wave of excitement this week.

Finished up one work project and got another new one. It's a mystery and I love those! Also plugging along with an ongoing LitRPG manuscript that's also a sci-fi/fantasy mash-up. I love the series!

Had an okay week of television viewing. I didn't get through as much as I thought I would but I'm cool with that.

I finished up the episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. I've got two episodes left and I'm bracing for impact because I know what's coming.

Caught the second part of Silent Witness and I'm happy to say I figured out the real culprit. It took some really twisty turns and I'm pretty sure there might have been a dangling plot thread but, honestly, a great episode.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm almost finished with the first season, and it's been terrific seeing the series in chronological order. Can't wait to start the next season.

Continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Epiphanies." I'd forgotten how much this episode set up for the following seasons. And I'm always blown away by how incredibly good James Callis is in the role of Baltar.

I also caught another episode of Fantasy Island. Really enjoyed this one. I'm very, very cautiously optimistic with the Javier and Elena storyline. I'm going to be so disappointed if it ends up being trashed for the sake of angst.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Lonely Heart Mountain, a novella that brings a couple together with a little help from delinquent siblings.

Here's the miniblurb:

Author Hettie Blackwell returns home to care for her ailing mother, because her two brothers aren't up to the task. But when Hettie bumps into Winslow Whittaker—the hot new sheriff—she's got more trouble, especially when her younger brother lands in county jail.

And a snippety peek…

Winslow Whittaker gave a low whistle. "Damn. There's a train wreck ready to happen." His instinct urged him to step in and deescalate the situation.

A weekend music festival with a turnout of about seven thousand people made an interesting melting pot in the middle of nowhere. And it definitely gave Win a fly-on-the-wall view of the residents he'd be mixing with in his new hometown.

He'd already clocked the battle of wills between a willowy blonde female and a hard-bodied guy with dark hair—both in their early twenties—as being close to disturbing the peace. Win worried it might slide into a domestic violence altercation.

The woman—and chief instigator—slammed her hand on the cooler acting as a makeshift table. "Dammit, Hank. I wanna be where the action is, and I need you to keep the lowlifes away so I can dance." She swiveled her hips back and forth in a sexy sway.

The guy—Hank—lifted his chin. "Shari, we broke up three months ago. You're not my problem anymore. Find someone else who needs a pain in the ass." He popped the cap off a bottle of beer.

Based on the pile of bottles scattered by Hank's chair, he wouldn't feel pain anywhere. Which meant he could stay mellow and ignore the ex-girlfriend or his switch could flip, and he could get aggressive if she didn't leave him alone.

Shari lashed out. "Asshole." She swung her leg back and landed a kick to the leg of Hank's fold-up lawn chair.

Of course, it collapsed and sent the guy sprawling. His beer sloshed everywhere, and the bottle went flying and crashed into a chrome fender on a huge Harley. A beefy guy rose up and started moving toward the duo.

Win stepped forward, ready to break his cover as an out-of-town spectator.

Hank shook his head. "Dammit, Shari. I'm trying to have a low-key experience here." He yanked his beer-sodden shirt over his head and flung it over the cooler then got to his feet.

The burly motorcyclist clapped a hand over Hank's shoulder. "Buddy, you just bought yourself a fuck-ton of trouble…"

"Yo, Bands. Give it a rest." The host of the concert, Tim Mullins, approached the group. "Blackwell didn't throw that bottle on purpose. Back off and enjoy the music." He jerked his head toward the group of six other bikers.

Bands muttered under his breath but walked away.

Hank grunted. "Thanks, man. Gonna fix my chair and keep my head down."

Tim sent a quick glance toward Shari. "And you're gonna let him. Walk away and leave him alone."

Shari huffed out a breath then turned and flounced away.

Win motioned for Tim to join him several yards away. "I almost stepped in there. Didn't look good for that, what's his name—Blackwell—kid." He regretted his promise to stay incognito for the duration of the weekend's festivities.

That way, according to Tim, a large swath of the county could get to know Win out of uniform. The idea made sense at the time. Win and Tim went back a few years. They met when Win, a state trooper at the time, rolled up on an accident scene involving Tim's tour van and a very drunk groupie who'd tried to flag them down with her vehicle.

Tim gave him a grim smile. "Glad you didn't. I've got Hank's situation handled." He met Win's gaze. "Sorry I told you about the sheriff's retirement?"

Win shook his head. "No, but I am rethinking your idea of having me here on the downlow." Tim would owe Win a huge favor after this.

Win didn't officially take over as the newly appointed county sheriff until Monday. If the weekend turned into a total shitshow, Win's first day could suck balls.

Tim gave Win the lowdown. "Look, Hank won't be here much longer. I called in reinforcements. One who's familiar with Hank's ex-girlfriend." He rolled his eyes.

Win nodded. "The blonde? Shari something."

Tim's head bobbed. "Yeah, Bennet. She's high maintenance and full drama and doesn't mix well with Hank's low-key approach to life. Or his lack of giving a shit when she creates a scene. She starts something and Hank sits and drinks to avoid getting sucked into her crazy circus." He leaned in a little. "They've been on and off since their freshman year of high school, but this last breakup seems final."

Win huffed out a breath. "Someone ought to let her know."

Tim's lips curved with a wry twist. "If she didn't figure it out tonight, there's a good chance she'll be set straight no later than Monday." His phone buzzed and he glanced at the screen. "Damn. Gotta go. Next set starts in ten and I'm playing."

Win lifted a hand. "Break a leg."

Once Tim got halfway down the hillside, Win moved back about fifty yards and propped his shoulders against a sturdy oak. He might as well keep an eye on Blackwell, who struggled to get his beer-soaked shirt back on.

This story is so much fun. Win's got a challenge in front of him with his new position and it's been a joy to write his introduction.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Liar's Lament

Still chugging along on various work projects, but I'm at the in-between stages on a few. I like having some free time to focus on writing.

Not a bad week for viewing television. I had to create a workaround for one of the shows I watch, but I'm happy I managed to remember how to set things up.

Caught another episode of Fantasy Island and, wow, I love the unexpected surprise. I'm cautiously optimistic the reveal won't trash things between Elena and Rafael. I'm not holding my breath though. One of the writers is known to mess things up to ramp up the angst factor.

Watched another episode of Strangest Things. I'm always interested in the ancient things they review, but I'm also fascinated by the crazy contraptions featured.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats. The puns and play on words are always fun. One of the greatest things about this show is the appeal to all age groups.

I finally finished the Passionflix original, Resisting Roots. I ended up really liking this one. It's not quite as steamy as some of the other movies, but I'm okay with that.

Caught another episode of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Enjoyed this one. Very glad Dom is back in good form.

Watched another episode of Cannes Confidential. I love this show! Camille and Harry are fun, and the underlying, sinister vibe is present but also subtle. Such a great show.

Continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica. This week we did a double header of "Resurrection Ship Part One and Two". The next few episodes are solid, but the show stumbles a little leading up to the season two finale. Too many threads that needed some loving care got dropped.

I also started another episode of Peak Practice and need to finish that one up later tonight.

That's it for this week's life update. Tonight's post is from Liar's Lament, a contemporary novella that reunites a couple after a nasty breakup.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Harper Scrytch kicks Rhett Barrison to the curb and runs like hell to avoid a romantic entanglement. Four years later she arrives back in town to make amends only to discover Rhett has moved on … unless he hasn't.

And a snippety peek…

Harper entered the city limits and braced for nostalgia to hit. Nothing like coming back to where life really began.

She traveled down the road toward her hotel. "With my tail between my legs no less." Pulling into the drive of the hotel chain, she sat for a minute, thrilled to be done with long-distance driving for the foreseeable future. "Okay, I'm not exactly crawling back. I have a plan and I'm not running scared anymore." She got out and handled getting checked in, paying for a week's stay.

Depending on how things went, she might extend the reservation.

After she parked close to her end of the wing, she grabbed her camera case and her overnight bag then key-carded the exterior door. She had a top-floor room and took the stairs to the fifth story. She needed the exercise after driving all day. Once inside her room, she deposited the bags on the bed and crossed over to the window.

Retrieving her phone, she hit send to call her mom, then gazed out across the river to the twinkling lights of downtown.

Abigail answered on the third ring. "Harper? Did you make it there? Everything go okay?"

Harper smiled. "Yes, Mom. Just got in and everything isn't okay, but it will be." Her confidence wobbled on the will be part, but she chalked it up to the long drive.

Abigail tsked. "Of course it will. You can't go anywhere but up, Harper." Her voice held no censure. "You've had a rough year."

Man, what an understatement. But Harper wouldn't change anything. Well, not much. Watching her dad lose his life to cancer didn't inspire joy. Having time to mend their fractured relationship, though … meant everything.

Abigail got it. "What you did for your dad, Harper…" She paused a moment. "I'm so proud of you."

Harper basked a little with the praise. And she'd said the same to her mom—four years ago when Harper finally stopped for the night. As promised, Abigail's news hadn't been about another stepparent. She'd found her true calling and opened Mystic Crystal, a shop catering to all who craved everything from crystals to homeopathic supplies. And Abigail had never been happier.

Harper turned from the window. "How did the new store opening go?" Harper couldn't wait to see the new shop.

Something she couldn't imagine happening when she'd split with Rhett. Getting to know her dad and taking care of him healed a hole in Harper's heart. The one left behind when Carlin chased after building his empire by dumping his family and not looking back. But mending the situation with her parents, by learning to accept them for what they were—flawed humans who needed time to figure themselves out—gave Harper a completely new perspective.

Hence the reason she returned. Getting her shit together by dealing with her biggest fears gave her the opportunity to move forward. Hopefully by rekindling a relationship with Rhett. If nothing else, she owed him the truth about the reason she'd left and an apology for the lie she'd told.

Abigail chattered on. "Have you decided what you'll do with the money from Ben's trust?"

Harper settled into a club chair. "My plan hasn't changed. I'm meeting with an agent tomorrow"—her old roommate Lily—"to find a space where I can live and work."

Her dad left everything to Harper. His previous three wives received prenup settlements at the time of their divorces—Abigail included. The myriad of live-in girlfriends had walked away with smiles on their faces—except the last one. She'd driven away with a fingery wave in Ben's sporty coupe.

Abigail broke into Harper's train of thought. "I'm glad you got the time to resolve your issues with him—especially after you and I got things settled. It's good he took care of you."

As the mother of his only child, Abigail expected Ben to leave his estate and trust to Harper. But … she hadn't counted on anything. Ben went through women quickly and spent lavishly. Harper didn't know if he'd have anything to leave. But he hadn't only run multiple venues and two stadiums, he'd invested in all of them, giving him part ownership.

His will stipulated she could do whatever she wanted with the trust, which she hadn't known until after he died. Their finance-focused conversations made so much more sense now. She wouldn't trade any of the time they had, even if she didn't get why he talked about money so much then.

Abigail voiced a quiet question. "Are you sure about returning to Pointe Grand?"

Harper's lips curved. "I am." She loved her mom for asking, especially because Harper hadn't been certain when they spoke last time.

Abigail clucked assurances. "And you also know you always have a place to call home if it doesn't work out for you."

Harper grinned again. "Thanks, Mom."

Who would've guessed five years ago, she'd be happy to hear Abigail offer a welcome place to stay?

They ended the call a few moments later.

Getting up and stretching, she gave in to the urge to crash into bed. "Eight a.m. meeting with Lily is going to come really damn early." Crawling between the sheets, Harper figured she might end up with nostalgic dreams of Rhett. "Which would be better than erotic ones."

Because those made her toss and turn all night.

Harper is fun to write. I love exploring a character that has regrets and she has a few where Rhett is concerned.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin

Sunday Snippet: Level Need (a VC Security Solutions novella)

Had a busy week with a new work project landing in my inbox. It's a holiday novel and I'm so excited because I love editing holiday stories! I'm also working on a proofread, which is a nice complement to a copy edit.

Had a slow week of viewing due to another loss of a relative. 2023 has been a rough year for the older generation in my family. I hope the final months are loss free.

I did watch the premiere episode of Cannes Confidential and thoroughly enjoyed it! It's got intrigue and charm and the cast is stellar. Looking forward to the next episode.

Also caught another episode of the Madame Blanc Mysteries. I'm slightly disappointed in the angst factor between the main characters but I'll roll through and see what happens. Very excited Gloria has a new guy even if he's competition for Dom.

Watched an episode of Peak Practice and found it kind of interesting. I liked getting some additional screen time for the deaf characters introduced earlier. Also kind of liked Andrew figuring out what he doesn't want.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and, wow, this one had some twists and a heartbreaking scene that I almost couldn't watch. Kind of looking forward to seeing where it goes.

Caught another Death in Paradise. Enjoyed the guys trying to avoid bringing Richard in on the case while he was down with a tropical fever but loved that they ended up doing it anyway.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Level Need, a novella in the VC Security Solutions series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Dita Burgess and Newton Malley work for a private security company and end up giving into a long-burning attraction and spending the night together. But when Dita gets a call to bring an asset in—one she made a promise to and cares deeply for—the happy beginning she has with Newton is in jeopardy.

And a snippety peek…

Dita Burgess rolled to her side and cupped her lover's face. "I've been called back. Are you sure you won't leave with me?" She had less than an hour to get out of the vicinity before law enforcement arrived.

Sean Rigby shook his head. "Can't. If I bail now, I'm a dead man." His hand brushed over the curve of her hip. "'Sides, more important for me to stick around and do some clean up. Maybe get this club into legitimate operations." He palmed her ass.

Dita waffled on taking the time to get one last steamy sex session in or extract herself now. She'd been living in Sean's pocket almost from the moment she crossed the threshold of the Blow Torch's bar almost a year ago. From that moment, they'd been inseparable, and he'd given her the access she needed to get the goods on the trafficking the motorcycle club did on the side.

She nuzzled his throat. "I wish you didn't have to stick around. The blowback on this is going to stick to all of you." The bar doubled as the motorcycle club's base of operations.

Sean shrugged. "Better I do. I'm not involved in the illegal shit like my uncle. Me and Pop stay on the up and up, running the welding business." He frowned. "The only reason we're members of the MC is because Uncle Jack insisted." His hands caught her face and tilted her chin up. "You're the only person who's ever looked past the surface to see what lies underneath." His lips meshed with hers. "I love you for that."

Her eyes welled, but she didn't let the tears fall. "You made it easy. And I promise if you're ever ready to bail on this life, I'll help you start a new one." She met his skeptical gaze. "I mean it, Rig. One call and I'll arrange a meet with a new identity and enough cash to start over wherever you want." She could do no less for him.

Sean grunted. "And you'll what? Leave everything behind and go with me?" His lips twisted in a wry smirk.

Dita laced her fingers with his. "Not much holding me here. I'd be happy to walk off into the sunset with you." And she would … because he'd given her something she hadn't had since the age of ten.

A place to call home.

She'd lucked into her job with VC Security Solutions after meeting the owner's daughter while doing community service. Dita didn't have any solid connections with the firm yet. She only had weekly check-ins by phone and monthly in-person meetings when possible. And, okay, she'd broken the number one rule of her training. Do not get personally involved with the informants.

Her timing might suck, but when did it not? Her entire life had been a series of misfortunes, almost theres, and too close to call situations. Sean liked how she'd seen past the surface to the real man underneath. Well … she loved him for giving her his trust and protection—the first time anyone had freely offered both.

Sean brought her hand up to his mouth and brushed his lips over her knuckles. "You better go or you'll get snatched up with the rest of us." He reached down and grabbed her clothes.

Dita slid from the bed and quickly dressed. "Promise me you'll call when you're ready to ghost on this place." She shoved her feet into her boots and picked up her bag.

Sean's lips curved into a smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Not gonna make a promise I might not keep. But I'll try to call if I'm ever free to do so." He didn't say it might be years … but the reality hung there between them.

Dita leaned down and caught his mouth in a hard kiss. "If you call, I'll come to you … no matter where." She straightened and backed toward the door, unwilling to look away until she had to.

He lifted his chin in farewell then grabbed his shirt and yanked it over his head then picked up his pants. No doubt he didn't want to be cuffed and dragged out without a stitch on. When he reached for his boots, Dita finally twisted the knob and made her way out through the bar. Her training kicked in and she clocked the members that were present on her way to the back door. When she cleared the alley and headed across the street, she dug out her phone, hitting the speed dial. The call got picked up before the first ring went all the way through.

Dita kept her gaze straight ahead when she spoke into the device. "I'm clear. Target's on sight." She ended the call … and her first assignment for VC Security Solutions.

I'm not quite sure where this story is going to go, but I love the extra wrinkle of having the main character fall for someone who isn't her endgame.

 

That's it for this week. Happy reading!

Skylin