Sunday Snippet: A Tantalizing Yule

April is almost over and it doesn't feel like we should be moving into the summer months. Seriously, the weather is still chilly, there's a pandemic making everything seem more lopsided and crazy, and it really just feels like we're still stuck in 2019, right?

Anyway, slower than usual week in television, but I did get several things watched. I started out with finishing up the Roswell, New Mexico episode and it ended up being pretty solid. I really want Maria to know what's going on with everyone. Make that happen soon, dammit.

Caught another episode of The Heart Guy and, seriously, this show is growing on me. I'll have to recommend this one to my brother, another fan of Aussie dramas.

The main reason I didn't get a lot of my regular shows watched is because I got completely sucked into the Battlestar Galactica marathon on Syfy. It was so much fun catching up with cast members and seeing them reminisce about the show. The marathon also made me long for the old days when Syfy used to marathon shows on a daily basis. I miss those days so much. I literally loathe the crap they show during the day now. Ugh.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice, the final one for the first season. A familiar face popped up, the man who plays Brackenried on Murdoch Mysteries. That was fun.

Watched two episodes of Danger Man for some background noise. Both were episodes I didn't remember seeing in my initial viewing of the series.

Also caught another arc of Classic Who. I have one more arc left with Three then will be moving on to the fourth doctor.

Watched another series of Cirque de Soleil shows. The talent the performers have amazes me. And the theatrical costumes and plot also blow me away.

Started the second episode of Picard, but the streamer kept crapping out with error messages. Frustrating as that seems to be happening a lot lately with various platforms. With so many people trying to stream shows, I guess that's to be expected.

Same thing keeps happening with Strike Back. I'm almost finished with the fifth episode, but it's taken my three days to get that far. Very annoying. But patience is a good thing.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from A Tantalizing Yule, a holiday spirit sexy short.

Here's the mini-blurb:

During the Yule season, Ginger Radiance, a holiday spirit, has to get Regina Royal, a sexy sprite, under the same roof with Fakhir Frenum, a studly spawn. The two have a clash of wills, creating a massive snowstorm that leaves them stranded … plenty of time to let the holiday work its magick on the wary enemies.

And a preview snippet…

Ginger Radiance burst through her front door and dropped her bag on the floor. "Whew! If I'm lucky, I'll have just enough time to grab a shower before I have to start cooking all the things for my dinner party." Shrugging out of her coat, she hung it in the closet.

She had four other spirits coming for an elegant meal to kick off the Yule season. So far, she had most of the dishes prepped; she only needed to put the finishing touches on them before getting them into the oven. But … she'd run out of wine—an oversight to be sure. One couldn't have a full celebratory feast without a little holiday cheer.

She had the water turned on and warming when the atmosphere shifted and a buzz of awareness zinged her.

Ginger's shoulders slumped. "Oh, no. Not now." Turning the water off, she snagged her robe and sat down at her vanity.

The air shimmered and a message appeared in front of the mirror, floating until Ginger clasped it between her fingers and set it on the smooth surface of the dresser's top. Her gaze scanned the missive and she shook her head.

With a sigh, she sent a quick message to her four guests, postponing the gathering for a day. "I should have known. How many times have I been warned about planning any festivities this close to the solstice?" More than she cared to count.

The powers that be liked to put lonely people together over the holiday—and, dammit, they tended to get it right each time—and Ginger had the unenviable task of getting a sprite and a spook together.

She snorted. "Nothing like a challenging pairing." Sprites and spooks usually didn't hit it off.

And, hoo boy, the couple she had to help had polar opposite personalities.

Getting into her task, Ginger reviewed her first charge's information. "Regina Royal, party girl extraordinaire." But not quite what she seemed.

As an earth sprite, she had a gift with manipulating air and atmosphere surrounding her.

Regina had experienced some recent growing pains and wondered if she'd ever get off the constant party train.

Ginger tsked. "Oh, dearie, the cost of being the life of the party has a high price tag sometimes." And Regina's antics kept her in solid demand.

But, she didn't get to use her ability because most of the gatherings were indoors. And while the female sprite enjoyed the lavish attention and being surrounded by a crowd, she often went home alone. Being at the top of everyone's guest list didn't give her a lot of opportunity to make lasting connections. Regina longed for something different—a reason, an excuse to pull the brake and get off the tilt-a-whirl party train.

Ginger pursed her lips. "She wants somebody to see the lonely woman who craves to be more than a hat-trick, good-time gal."

Even if Regina hadn't quite figured out how to make that happen.

Now, Ginger's second charge could prove to be a complete killjoy. Spooks, often by nature, conjured the whole dark-and-stormy-night vibe. Fakhir Frenum fit the mold and had a tendency to be abrasive and irascible.

Ginger tilted her head to one side. "Maybe because no one can get past the smoldering looks and hard body." Fakhir had more going on with his keen intelligence and elemental ability.

Spooks descended from pantheon DNA and almost always had incredible physiques. The diluted bloodline limited their power but gave them fae magick. Fakhir wanted to do more than get hit on by preternatural creatures or be a magnet for physical altercations.

Ginger drummed her fingers on the vanity. "But it's been so long since anyone tried to dig deeper with him, he does nothing but snap, snarl, and snipe at everyone."

Which could prove interesting when he met Regina.

Rubbing her hands together, Ginger got up and headed for her wardrobe. "And I know just the place to make that happen." The Goodacre Bed and Breakfast.

Dragging some clothes out, she made a mental checklist of what she'd need to outfit the charming inn and what type of invitation she wanted to send. Satisfied with her plans, she dashed off the magickal parchments then sifted through the veil into the nether realm.

I have so much fun brainstorming ideas for the holiday spirit shorts. I love coming up with creative names for the spirits.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Tangled Web

April 19, 2020

Crazy weather in Ohio this week. Warm, then cold and rainy, and then a little slushy snow mix thrown in. I can honestly say I'm kind of ready for spring to get here in full. At least having the option to go outside and enjoy some sun breaks things up a bit.

Not a big week for television but I got a few shows watched. I started with an episode of Arrow and I'll be getting ready to start the Crisis Crossover soon.

Caught the penultimate episode of Murdoch Mysteries. I'm sad about the death of a character I liked. I loved George's side story. I have no earthly clue what Julia is doing but I'm rolling along with the character arc to see where things go. I do like seeing the ups and downs of William and Julia.

Watched an episode of Riverdale and, wow, the batshit ramped up to double digits, which I love. I still hate Hiram with the burning passion of a thousand suns and gotta say the character kind of ruins the show for me. We'll see how this season shakes out but I honestly can't stand it when he's on the screen. I'm not sure how I feel about the Charles / Chick development but we'll see how that one plays out also.

Had a virtual watch party with a good friend and we rolled out The Rise of Skywalker. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie to bits. I'm hoping we'll get more of those in soon.

Started the second episode of Roswell, New Mexico's new season. So far, I'm enjoying but I really want Maria to finally be aware of the aliens. The fact she isn't really bugs me. So far, I'm not a huge fan of having Rosa back either.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Tangled Web, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Jordan gave her a slow once-over and interest flashed in his gaze.

Ruby shook her head. "You don't want to get tangled up with me." Her inner self screamed her frustration.

Jordon tilted his head to one side. "Why not?" His lips curved in a sweet, sexy smile.

Ruby gave him the straight answer. "I'm toxic. Burned every damn bridge I ever crossed." Okay, more like had every one burned for her, but she'd fill him in later on that part.

Jordan quirked a brow. "So? Leave one untouched for once."

Ruby snorted. "Can't."

He prompted. "Because…"

Show or go time. "Every guy I've dated, shown an interest in, or hell, greeted in a nice manner is dead." She met his gaze head-on. "And I need to find out why."

Jordan gave her a long, considering look. "And you want me to help." He made it a statement.

Right. Because why else would she have contacted him?

He continued. "That's why you messaged me and asked to meet here, isn't it?"

She nodded. "I come here every Tuesday, so it's nothing out of the ordinary or a change in habit." She lifted a shoulder. "I honestly didn't know if you'd show." But holy crap. Relieved didn't begin to describe her gratefulness he had.

He laughed. "Are you kidding? Who could resist a request to meet at a beauty parlor?" He leaned in closer. "I've never seen the inner workings of such a female-dominated place before. Truth told, I was a little terrified to enter."

Ruby smiled. "Nothing too scary." She glanced around the back area of Curl-a-Whirl. "Just a bunch of coloring dyes and perm solutions."

He scanned the room. "I had no idea so many different shades existed."

She chuckled. "I just brought the latest colors in. Purple is a big trend this fall." She shook her head again. "Sorry. I'm rambling a little. Thelma's place is my last stop on Tuesday and I sometimes stay and have tea and scones with her. That's why I picked this shop."

His head bobbed up and down. "Smart. Truly. Gives us some time to discuss what you're looking for."

Ruby sighed. "I'm looking for a miracle. I'm so tired of being an object of destruction." She snorted. "Or, I guess I should say being used as an instrument of one."

Jordan questioned. "Are you sure that's what's going on?" He settled back in the seat when Thelma entered the room, carrying a tray with tea, scones, and two mugs.

Ruby got up and took the items from Thelma. "I'm not sure about anything, Mr. Riceman, but my gut says—"

He corrected. "Jordan. And you don't have to say more. Gut instinct has saved my life more than once." He waited until she sat back down before going on. "So, people, men in particular, drop like flies around you and you'd like to know why, right?"

Hell, yes.

Since he'd nailed it on the head, she poured two mugs of tea before responding. "Wouldn't you?" She placed a cup in front of him.

He lifted the tea and blew across the top. "Absolutely." He took a tentative sip then let out a blissful sigh. "Earl Gray, one of my favorites."

Ruby's lips curved. Knowing a brew by taste raised her respect for him a notch. She hoped like hell he'd take her case.

She toyed with the spoon beside her mug. "Mr. Rice—sorry. Jordan, knowing what you do now, about the men I've been associated with, are you willing to find out what's going on?" She sprinkled some sweetener in her tea and stirred, anticipating yet dreading his response.

He snagged a scone from the serving tray. "Oh, I'm in, Ms. Ire. If for no other reason than to clear a path for you and me to get better acquainted." He bit into the pastry and gave another bliss-filled sigh.

Oh, she liked him. A lot.

Ruby stuck out her hand. "Please … call me Ruby." When he grasped her fingers, she added. "And thank you. I think you might be a little insane, but after two years of handling this alone, it feels good to have someone on my side … aside from Thelma."

Jordan grinned. "If the woman throws in a dozen of these on a weekly basis, I might just work for free."

Ruby laughed, a true, honest release of mirth.

Jordan winked. "Feels good, doesn't it?" He leaned forward, taking her hand again. "Be prepared for more, Ruby. We will figure out what, or who, is plaguing you. I promise."

She squeezed his fingers in response but didn't speak. She couldn't. Finally. Finally.

She had hope.

I love writing what I've dubbed as Urban Noir. Combining the feel of underlying intrigue and danger with a slightly paranormal edge, the characters get to act and react in different ways.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Storm Down the Drain

I think we're starting to get used to our state of affairs. For me, it's not a huge change. The household still has three workers deemed essential and one who can work depending on the weather. Financially, we're feeling a pinch but not a hard bite. We're still trying to show support for the restaurants and local businesses to help ease their concerns.

Kind of a slow week for television, mainly because I've been feeling kind of blah. When the weather goes from warm to cold then back again twice in one week, I react poorly. My sleep schedule is way out of whack right now. Bleh.

I finished up Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears. I loved it!! The conclusion ended up being perfect with a callback to the series and Phryne's biggest fear. And the movie let Phryne stay in character so to speak. I won't spoil anything but the romance ended up being exactly right for Phryne and Jack.

I also got to check out the behind the scenes footage and a Q and A with Essie Davis. Fun stuff. If you get a chance, check this movie out on Acorn.

Watched the penultimate episode of season one Peak Practice. I'll finish up the series this week coming up. I can quite decide if I like Will or if I think he's a complete prat. Or … if I actually like him because he's a prat. LOL

Caught the Death to the Daleks arc of Classic Who. I'm not sure how many episodes are left in season eleven, but I'm looking forward to revisiting the fourth doctor in the next series.

I decided to see if I can catch some musicals and concerts that are streaming right now. I watched an amalgamation of Cirque du Soliel, featuring Amaluna and two other shows. I'll be watching another one later this week and then searching for a musical or orchestra concert to watch.

I'm doing a trial with CBS All Access and watched the first episode of Picard. I'm intrigued. The reviews were mixed but I can safely say I kind of want to know what the hell is going on with the Romulans and the Borg and the federation and AIs. I'll be tuning in for another episode for certain.

Caught episode four of Strike Back. I'm very pleased one of the characters got to live to see another day. I love how much Chetri does on the down low. I also love how Coltrane does what he thinks he should do but changes on the fly when loyalty comes into play. This show … I'm going to miss it so much when it's over.

This week's Strike Back Declassified ended up being really good. Seeing into the thought process is always fun and hearing how they shoot things in long takes amazes me.

Watched two more episodes of Gargoyles. I'd forgotten how much Demona annoyed the crap out of me. I'm getting a crash course during the rewatch. LOL

Caught episode two of The Witcher. Again, this show intrigues me. I'm following along fairly well and I like having the three storylines playing out on the screen. Looking forward to the next episode.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Storm Down the Drain, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

On a dark and stormy night, Brooks Algonquin knocks on Velvet Strong's door and asks her to help him find the Burmesian Raven, an antiquity with magical qualities. Velvet takes his case but quickly learns Brooks has ulterior motives for acquiring the artifact stolen from his family.

And a preview snippet…

She's taking the case.

Brooks's grin faded. Now he had to figure out how to keep her safe. But … an idea started to form in his mind for a perfect solution.

Letting go of her palm and reaching for his checkbook, he met her gaze. "Will you accept half your fee up front?" He retrieved a pen from his pocket.

Velvet held up a hand. "No, not yet." Leaning back, she draped an arm over the cushion. "Let's see if I can find this artifact first." A small smile curved her lips. "And maybe see how much of an adventure this turns into." The robe parted at her waist below the hastily tied belt, giving Brooks an amazing view of the leg she didn't have tucked under her thighs.

His mouth watered … just a little.

Then reality kicked in. He'd hate to see anything happen to any of her limbs.

Clearing his throat, he pressed forward with his idea, playing a carefully manipulated hand. "Er, you know how my family operates. I ditched my babysitter to come here so they wouldn't know my plans." He rolled a shoulder. "I'd feel better if I have you on retainer. You'll be protected if you are."

Velvet's eyebrows rose. "How do you figure? If I'm on your payroll, they'll know what you're doing." Her lips thinned to a flat line across her face.

Now comes the tricky part.

Brooks complimented her intelligence. "Good point. Your reputation is well-known, but you're also a woman. In my world, you wouldn't be taken as seriously as a male counterpart." He rolled his eyes. "Having you on retainer would offer a layer of protection if only because you'd be taking payment. But … it would tip my hand." He met her gaze. "To be completely safe, and to keep what I need to do under wraps, I want you to become my mistress."

Velvet's mouth dropped open. "Excuse me?" She blinked and her shoulders tensed.

Brooks quickly clarified. "Only to the public. You know, a ruse." He gave her another slow once-over. "Although, full disclosure, I wouldn't mind having you in my bed." Not one damn bit would he mind.

Velvet's countenance changed and the seductive siren came out. "Mmm. As nice as that would be…" She leaned forward, invading his personal space. "I only get intimate with people I trust." She patted him on the chest. "And you and me … we're not there yet." Rising, she gathered the tray from the table and carried the items into the kitchen area again.

Brooks almost asked why she didn't trust him. But … he hadn't told her everything. He couldn't. Not yet anyway. The fact she'd picked up on his evasive tactic kicked his respect for her up another notch.

He stood and followed her into the nicely appointed kitchen. "Have you changed your mind then?"

Velvet angled her head around to meet his gaze. "About taking the case? No, not at all." She turned, facing him. "But let's be clear on my role. I'll pose as your lover in public. In private, we stay in our own beds." She folded her arms over her chest. "Does that work for you?"

He nodded. "It does." As much as he wanted her, he couldn't be a slave to his libido—not with his life on the line.

Velvet gave him a brief smile and moved past him. "Good." She led the way back to the exit.

Brooks paused behind her. "Once my family knows you'll be at my place or I'll be over here, they'll relax. If they think I'm wrapped up in a new woman, the shadow detail should loosen up and give us windows of opportunity to find the artifact." Most of those pockets of time would be during the darkest part of night, but she'd have figured that out already.

Velvet stepped aside but stayed close to the door. "Did you have a place in mind for our first meeting?"

Brooks had just the place picked out. "Jumpin' Joes. Do you know the place?"

She gave a nod. "I'm familiar with it, yes. A good pick. Crowded enough to play into a chance meeting, but not so popular we'll be in a crush of people. Tomorrow around nine?"

The time worked well for him. "Perfect. I'll get there a little early and claim a spot at the bar." One last thought struck him and he didn't stop to think about his next action.

Cupping her face with one hand, he leaned in, making his intention clear. She didn't resist or flinch away and his mouth slanted over hers for a long, lingering kiss.

When he eased back, he traced his thumb over her cheek. "Practice. Had to make sure we'd be able to pull off a public display of affection." He definitely wouldn't mind finding reasons to lock lips with her again.

Velvet blew out an extended breath. "Obviously not going to be a problem." She reached for the doorknob. "But … let's remember to keep those displays in the public arena from this point forward." Pulling the door open, she sidestepped to let him exit.

Brooks lifted his chin, acknowledging her stipulation and left the suite. He waited until he started down the back stairs before letting a wide, slow grin cross his face.

Working with Velvet Strong might be the best thing ever.

I love this couple who aren't a couple. If all goes well, Brooks and Velvet will slowly make their way toward a satisfying ending.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Still of the Night

Gotta say it's so hard to have my youngest's senior year be put on indefinite hold. So far, the musical is canceled, which is to be expected. Prom is postponed for now. Graduation is up in the air as far as walking to get a diploma. She's handling it pretty well all things considered. I'm very proud of the level of maturity she's showing.

Not a bad week for television but slower than usual. I've been taking on as much work as I can in case the well runs dry there. Who knows how long the quarantine will last?

I can safely say I'm disgusted by the fact Hiram is a free man on Riverdale. And I'm beyond "meh" about a long-lost daughter showing up. I am very intrigued by the whole flash-forward cut scenes at the end of each episode. I'm very interested to see where those go.

Caught another episode of Danger Man, which started season two for me. I guess I didn't realize the second season went to hour-long episodes. I'm not sure I've seen any of those.

Watched the season two premiere of Roswell, New Mexico. I'll be brutally honest … I'm really not sure I'm down with the whole "let's kill Max" concept. For now, I'm trusting the creator but if I'm let down with where things go, I'll be done watching. I do love Michael's journey so far. I'm not thrilled Maria is still completely clueless about the alien angle, but I'll see how that plays out also. I love where Alex and Kyle are right now. Here's hoping I'm not completely let down by this show.

On a very happy note, I'm in the middle of watching Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears and it's so, so good. I'd read reviews that implied it didn't measure up to the series, but, in all honesty, I'm actually pretty pleased with I'm seeing so far. Considering this movie happened because fans were more than happy to crowd source the filming, I'd say the general public can zip it.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Still of the Night, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Salem Rhys has the perfect recipe for brewing dark lager, a potent alcohol that will go over huge at the mage academy … but doesn’t have the know-how or equipment to create the concoction. Jared Meyer, a tech genius, can definitely help her out. Salem falls hard for her business partner, but considers him out of her league until Jared proposes more than a money-making venture.

And a preview snippet…

Jared crossed the pentagon cursing his ignorance. "What the hell was I thinking?" Great mage, he hadn't been.

As usual.

Sometimes having a genius IQ made him really stupid. No wonder his family wanted to teach him a lesson in humility. He needed one.

He might have to apply practicality to his everyday life, but if he fell on his face, he had a family that would dust him off and urge him to start over.

He shook his head. "Salem has no one." What would that be like?

Alone. No family. And lots of problems.

A flush of shame headed his face because he'd never thought about anyone else's circumstances. Why would he? As the golden child of a long line, he didn't need to. But he should.

He snorted. "The whole point of being cut off, right?" Or one of the excuses his family gave him anyway.

And not without cause. Jared couldn't deny he pushed the limits of acceptable behavior because he could get away with doing so.

Lost in recriminations, he didn't hear the running footsteps come up behind him until a hand grasped his shoulder. Turning, his eyes widened to find Salem, slightly short of breath, but otherwise unfazed by jogging to catch up with him. Wisely, he kept his mouth shut this time.

She exhaled and cleared her throat. "Look, let me apologize for being bitchy back in the common area. In my defense, I literally just left the dean's chambers after being informed I have to come up with my tuition or leave in two months." She paused, closing her eyes for a moment. "I don't want to leave; I love it here … but I have nothing. No savings, no emergency fund, and like I said, by the time my mom's estate makes it through probate, it'll be too late." She blew out another gust of air. "No matter. It didn't give me cause to be an asshole."

Jared admired her sense of decency … especially when he actually pulled the dick move. "No worries, Salem. And no need to apologize." He waved off the idea.

She shrugged and tilted her head to one side. "Did you mean it when you said you'd help if you could?" A note of desperation crept into her gaze, marring the incredible green hue.

He flinched internally. He'd pay for her entire run if he had access to the funds. Which he no longer did. But maybe…

Giving her a nod, he confirmed. "Sure. I can't offer to make the payment, but I have a couple of family members on the board. Did you want me to speak with them?" It would cost him pieces of his pride and probably a good bit of dignity, but he kind of liked the idea of helping a damsel in distress.

Salem shook her head. "No, no. That's a nice gesture and all, but I was hoping you might help with this." She thrust a sheet of notebook paper his way. "Do you know where I can find the items on this list?"

Jared took the page and scanned the odd mix of rare herbs and weird industrial supplies. Wheels started turning in his head. There were several different things she could use the items for and—

He met her gaze. "What are you up to, Salem?" His eyes narrowed. "You're not going to blow something up, are you?" The industrial equipment would make terrific housing for explosives.

Salem made a garbled choking sound. "Of course not." Her insulted tone came through loud and clear.

He cocked his head, the gears quickly shifting in his brain. "Okay, then … you're what? Making a still to brew alcohol?" The mix of herbs made more sense now.

She lifted a shoulder. "Maybe. I've got my mom's recipe for dark amber. Figured I could sell it for tidy profit if I can figure out the tech to magick ratio." She paused, her shoulders slumping. "And find a way to buy what I need."

Jared studied her for several long moments. Her idea might prove sound. She could make a killing with the upcoming festivals. Beauty and brains. I might have discovered my personal kryptonite. He wanted to help her in a big way. And possibly work an angle to his benefit too.

He read over the list again. "Can I keep this? I know of a place where you could get the equipment." As to the plant stuff… "Can't really help on the herbs. Organic magick isn't my thing. Too boring." Although, the way she wanted to use them made him wish he'd paid more attention during those classes.

Salem hesitated, eyeing the list. Ah … she didn't trust him. Why the lack of faith stung, he couldn't say, but it did.

Shaking his head, he folded the paper and tore it in half, keeping the section with the industrial supplies. "Here." He handed the organic list items over to her. "Wouldn't want you to think I'm trying to steal your super-secret recipe." Although, he wouldn't mind getting cut in on what should prove to be a profit-making venture.

Salem blushed a charming shade of pink. "Again, sorry. But I really need to make this happen and trust isn't something I have in large supply right now." She tucked the paper into her pocket.

Jared shrugged. "Fair enough. Give me the rest of the day. I'll let you know if I find a source for this stuff."

She gave a quick nod then turned and walked away.

He'd made it to the other side of the quad before realizing neither had set a time or place to meet.

He snorted. "If this venture is going to work, we need to communicate a little better."

Wouldn't that be fun?

This story is so much fun. Jared and Salem are slowly going to figure out the trust and communication thing.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye