Sunday Snippet: Kindred Spirits

The winter blast is still underway. I'd love to send some of our precipitation out to California to combat the wildfires burning LA right now. Another 3-5 inches of snow in the next day or so. Thankfully, I don't have to really go out for anything until the end of the week.

I made progress on my side project. I have a few more things to upload and some links to get set, then I'll hopefully be ready to launch. I also did some future planning on what manuscripts to focus on next. At least it's movement!

Very light work week again. Still working on the readthrough for my friend and I completed a manuscript proofread. Hoping to have another new one to get started on this week.

Not a bad week for viewing. I had some distractions but nothing major. I also think I've found the next show I want to watch on one of my streamers.

Finished up the premier episode of London Kills. This is definitely going to be a wild season. Can't wait to see more.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. Kind of sad to see JP leaving but excited to see what happens next. Marlon is growing on me so that's a good thing.

Started the spinoff Beyond Paradise and enjoyed the opening episode. I'm interested to see where things go with Humphrey and Martha. Not sure about Martha's mom. So far, not a fan. I do love the team and look forward to more interactions with them.

Watched another episode of Elementary. Enjoyed the dynamic with the Sherlock regular, the math guy. Also kind of enjoyed the Joan and Kitty scenes. I'm not sure what's going on with Kitty but I don't think she's really committed to the group therapy thing. We'll see if I'm right about that…

Finished up the second part of the opening episodes of Batman Beyond. I'm excited about this rewatch. The theme song alone makes it worth another visit to this one.

Enjoyed another Classic Rugrats episode. This one was the launch of All Growed Up and I hadn't seen the bookend with the original babies. Such a fun episode.

Also finished up an episode of Peak Practice, which I ended up liking. Will is still a bit of a prat but and I really, really dislike the finance guy, but overall, this ended up being a great episode.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Kindred Spirits, a novella that mixes a little multiple partner fun with magic at a mage academy.

Here's the miniblurb:

Merrit Rhodes accepts a teaching position at the Athena Academy of Magic and Semblance to earn her rites. Vaughn Gregorvich and Kirby Selwig are best friends and fellow instructors who fall hard for the newest addition to the campus. Sparks literally fly when the trio decides to test the power of three after a night of drinking a powerfully potent new cocktail called Elixir.

And a preview snippet…

Merrit had a dilemma.

How did I even try to ignore the simmering awareness and sexual tension with these two guys?

Kirby put her at ease. His running commentary while they gathered what she'd need for uniforms and her new living space entertained and informed. He acted like a big goofball, but she didn't miss the agile way he moved or the controlled lion-like grace to his stride. He had an aura of openness and a flair for the dramatic. Merrit enjoyed his company.

But Vaughn … well … he made her hyperaware of his presence. He stalked through the stores with a panther-like quality, something almost regal, but deep and dark. Something about him stayed hidden in the shadows and he didn't feel like sharing. Walking a finely honed blade might be the way to describe the vibe she got from him. Instinct screamed one wrong move would send the knife plunging deep into her heart and mind.

The idea thrilled and terrified her in equal measure.

Fingers snapped in front of her. "Hello? Merrit, you still with us?" Kirby's raised eyebrow gave him a rakish look.

Merrit shook her head. "Sorry. Yes. What were you saying?" The men each had several shopping bags in hand, while she also carried two on either side.

Vaughn smirked. "He asked if you know what Dean Hargrove's first name is?"

Merrit paused a moment. "Honestly? I don't. None of the correspondence referred to him as anything but Dean Hargrove."

Kirby grinned. "That's his name."

Confused, Merrit stopped walking. "What is?"

Vaughn cracked a smile, a sly twist to his lips.

Merrit laughed. "You're kidding. His name is Dean Hargrove and he's the dean of Athertons?" Kind of a weird and wild coincidence.

Kirby nodded. "Absolutely!" He leaned in. "You're pretty quick on the uptake. Most new recruits don't catch on until at least the third of questioning back and forth."

Merrit shot a quick glance toward Vaughn. Had he meant to give away the joke? His wry response had clued her in.

She shrugged. "I'm just lucky, I guess." She always tried to downplay her intuitiveness.

Kirby snorted. "Or maybe you have strong oracle fu—like your mom."

Merrit raised her brows. "How much do you two know about me?" Her history had pockets of secrets.

Vaughn rolled a shoulder. "Not as much as you think. Kirby's talent is drawing people out, but you're proving to be a tough case."

She smiled. "Good."

Kirby blinked. "Good?" He made what she could only refer to as a confused dog sound.

Merrit gave a nod. "Yes. I have a feeling things come way too easily for you two. A challenge will keep you on your toes."

Kirby sputtered and mumbled something unintelligible.

But Vaughn surprised her. He threw his head back and laughed. The man needed to do that more often.

Holy shit.

I'm having so much fun writing this trio. The sages are having a good time feeding me this story.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Passion's Gate

Crap. I can't believe May is almost over. It's been a crazy month. We're finally getting through the Covid crud. Thankfully, I'm still negative and I'm crossing my fingers I stay that way.

Had a solid week of work projects and got some extra writing in also. My oracle cards this week had a majority of work-life balance advice this week and I'm trying to pay heed and take time to do fun stuff along with the work.

Had a semi-decent week of viewing. Made a full round of my regular streaming services and played a little catch up with some small things I'd been saving up for a while.

Caught another episode of The Snoopy Show and laughed out loud several times. Pitty Snoopy against Lucy is always fun.

Started Signora Volpe because two of my favorite actors are in it and it's a mystery series. Really enjoyed the first episode and I'm looking forward to more.

Watched the first part of Silent Witness. Very interesting episode and a bit of a departure from the way cases are usually presented. I'm looking forward to the second part.

Finished up a Classic Who arc and actually kind of enjoyed it. This is an odd season and I'm still not quite sure how I feel about Mel as a companion.

Enjoyed another episode of The Mandalorian. I love the pacing and the small reveals and the humor. This is a fun show even if it not necessarily supposed to be.

Caught another episode of Harrow and loved it. Putting Farley, Harrow, and Daniels in the wild ended up being hilarious. Not sure how I feel about Grace and her ex—I'm not really that interested and I don't like being jerked around. I do know I'm not a fan of James and I'm going to be interested to see if they end up making him as awful as I think they will.

Watched another episode of Blue Heelers and enjoyed it. It's always cool to see how the southern hemisphere celebrates a holiday like Christmas when it's the middle of summer for them.

Enjoyed another MasterClass lesson with Neil deGrasse Tyson. I liked the focus on inspiring curiosity in your audience. There were a couple of great takeaways from that.

Caught another episode of The Babysitter's Club and, again, I totally get why so many people loved this show. I'll savor the two seasons available.

Watched two more episodes of Classic Rugrats. I love the trip down memory lane and how much fun the show has with classic pop culture references.

Finished season four of Chicago Med and, wow, ending on a cliffhanger for sure. I'm glad I can start season five right away.

Last but not least, I caught up on a few things I've had on hold. I watched several Passionflix options. Dirty, Sweet Valentine, Wicked bloopers, and I finally finished up Seduction and Snacks, which I ended up enjoying so much. The laugh out loud funny moments were exactly what I needed to end the week. I hope they do more with sexy romcoms.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Passion's Gate, a follow-up to Kindred Spirits where Kirby gets to take a stab at an HEA.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Kirby Selwig meets Passion Gates and she rocks his world. She's a force to be reckoned with and a little out of control. Kirby is tasked with tempering her wild spirit—something she has no interest in taming. Too bad she doesn't know Kirby never fails to get results.

And a preview snippet…

Kirby cut the mental conversation with his dick—about the inappropriateness of being rock hard under the circumstances—short.

He dashed to the bar the doorway. "Whoa, hold up a moment here." He held up both hands and urged calming vibes toward the gorgeous Passion. "You don't want to take on the entire board without at least presenting your case."

Passion's brow furrowed. "Why the hell not?" She planted her hands on her hips and hit him with a dead-on stare.

Kirby refused to wilt under the onslaught … or to haul the woman over his shoulder so he could find the nearest flat surface to ravage her on. "First, you'll be ostracized by the entire population, which would be a damn shame and—"

She cut him off with a hand wave. "I've been ignored and shunned most of my life. Nothing new there." Her gaze didn't waver but a note of something sad crept into her irises.

His heart hurt a little for her but, he lifted a shoulder. "Fine. Consider this then. You obviously have an agenda whether it's directed toward family." His gaze lingered on Dean Hargrove. "Atherton's…" He swept the board with his line of sight. "Or both, is that correct?"

She gave a nod.

Kirby focused solely on Passion. "More importantly, unless your goal is complete obscurity, if you walk out now and continue thumbing your nose at this council, you'll never achieve whatever it is you're seeking." His curiosity burned with wanting to know exactly what she sought from the university.

Passion cocked her head to one side. "You raise a valid point." She met her uncle's gaze. "Be prepared for my return in one week. But know this … I'll not be subject to the arcane power of this board. It's my choice to come here next week and it'll be my choice to stay or not." She lowered her voice and growled. "You're not going to treat me the way you treated Nina."

A second round of gasps and shocked expressions filled the room. Pieces started falling into place. Kirby blinked. Well, fuck. That's why her name is so familiar.

He shot a quick glance toward Vaughn and breathed a sigh of relief when he didn't react. At least not outwardly. On the inside, his best friend would be a swirl of malevolent emotions.

And didn't that fucking bode well … for exactly no one.

I'm slowing working out the small details on this one, but Kirby and Passion are impatiently waiting for me to get to the good stuff…

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Kindred Spirits

Wow. The month is half over already. October is flying by. Not complaining because I'm super busy with work projects and that makes me happy. I'm also making steady progress on the whole clean and organize project.

Had a solid week of television viewing again. I watched two lessons of Master Class with Brandon McMillan. I got more valuable insight in dog behavior and I hope I can translate that to working with my doggos.

Caught two episodes of Gilmore Girls: Year in the Life. Winter and spring were each enjoyable. I didn't know how they'd handle Richard's death, but I like what they did. I'm very curious how summer is going to play out, especially with Loralie's therapy deal.

Enjoyed two specials about Cher. Artist to Icon and Life in the Spotlight both had great footage and details. I remember watching Sonny and Cher and her solo show on television when I was a kid. I sometimes miss that type of variety show. I'm so not into the idols and voice-type shows.

Watched another episode of Star Trek: Discovery. I thoroughly enjoy how the plotlines are playing out. I have to admit I really didn't think they'd go where they went with the Tyler storyline but I love that they did. Took me back to Farscape a little bit.

Caught two episodes of Chicago Med and liked both. Rhodes keeps growing on me and I like how he stumbles every once in a while. I need to go back and do a crossover watch at some point also.

Thoroughly enjoyed an episode of Midsommer Murders. Old school in so many ways with being trapped on an island and having the case be about tabletop gaming. All in all, an excellent episode.

Finished up the second part of Silent Witness and started a new two-parter. Great to have Leo back in the morgue and out on cases. I also remembered how much I love Nikki and Harry's bantery conversations.

Started season twenty of Classic Who and, hello, Tegan's back. I watched two four-episode arcs and actually loved both. The second arc brought the Maya back and I'd forgotten they did that sometimes in the original series.

Began a new series with UFOs Over Earth. The first two episodes were fun. Fayetteville and Bucks County were the areas MUFON investigated. I've seen bit and pieces about both sightings but got some new information about each. Always enjoy when that happens.

Watched two episodes of The Muppet Show. Dudley Moore and Arlo Guthrie were the guest stars. I'm enjoying season four so far.

Started the fifth season of Prime Suspect and I'm pretty sure I remember how this one plays out. I love how fallible Jane is and watching that unfold on screen.

Got another episode of Peak Practice watched. This one ended up being a lot calmer than the last one. I'm really enjoying the trio of partners.

Watched two episodes of Classic Rugrats. The first season has so many great moments and I love revisiting them.

Also got in another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries and finished up season four. I'll be starting season five this week. I still truly love this show so much. I miss Jared a little but I think he might be in at least one more episode and I'm hoping to actually get to meet Roxy at some point.

That's pretty much it for the weekly television update. Tonight's post is from Kindred Spirits, a novella with a friendly rivalry that turns into something deeper between the characters.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Merrit Rhodes accepts a teaching position at the Athena Academy of Magic and Semblance to earn her rites. Vaughn Gregorvich and Kirby Selwig are best friends and fellow instructors who fall hard for the newest addition to the campus. Sparks literally fly when the trio decides to test the power of three after a night of drinking a powerfully potent new cocktail called Elixir.

And a preview snippet…

Her beauty stunned Kirby. He didn't lack confidence, but someone like Merrit—who had enough raw talent to garner the special program—intimidated him. He'd man up and own that admission—if only to himself. So … he fell back on his standard practice—boyish charm and a steady flow of conversation.

He angled toward her. "You're not nervous, are you?" She came across as open but a little reserved.

Merrit's head wobbled back and forth a little. "Overwhelmed is a better definition." She swept her arms out. "This is a lot take in."

Kirby's lips curved. "You get used to it—pretty quickly, too. Vaughn and I were old hands by our second semester." And they ruled the campus by the end of the third.

Merrit tilted her head to one side. "When did you start?"

Kirby glanced in Vaughn's direction. "Hmm … how old were we, Vaughn? Ten?"

Vaughn gave him a vacant stare, which probably meant a private conversation with Hargrove. Kirby would find out what had held his friend up after they got Merrit settled. He didn't like being out of the loop.

Vaughn focused on the question a moment then nodded. "Yes. You'd just turned ten the week before, and I was only going to be ten for another week."

Merrit flashed a smile. "So, you're the same age for two whole weeks?"

Kirby smirked. "Exactly. Something old man Vaughn likes to tout—the vast maturity and experience he has over me."

Vaughn snorted. "I don't have to tout anything. Anyone with keen observational skills can figure out what they need to know about you and me."

Kirby narrowed his gaze. Translated meaning … Good luck, bro. The game is on. Which meant the trash talk would begin.

Kirby flung in arm around Merrit. "Let's get you some uniforms then we'll get you settled." He led her down the corridor.

Merrit happily agreed and stayed by his side.

Kirby tossed a vague smile of triumph in Vaughn's direction. First point, mine.

I love writing this group of characters. The vibe between the three is so much fun to write.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye 

Sunday Snippet: Passion's Gate

July kind of flew by in a series of weird weather and crazy work schedules. I'm oddly okay with that. The weather is what it is… and will probably keep acting like an angry toddler. My work calendar is bursting at the seams and I'm excited about my new projects.

But… my television viewing is sporadic, which isn't a bad thing. I'm just so used to doing rundowns each week I feel like my blog is naked if I don't have a full slate. LOL

I did get a few shows watched. I started with Midsomer Murders and got a holiday episode. There's a new detective sergeant or maybe it's detective constable, but either way, I'll miss Jones. I loved that character. Which isn't to say the new guy won't grow on me. He's not bad. Good mystery also.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and it's rather different and I like it. I'm not sure how long the first season is, but the series is something like fourteen seasons and it's nice to have variety in format.

Caught two more episodes of Peter Gunn and Classic Who. I'm kind of excited to watch a live-action episode with Two. So far, it's been six animated episodes.

Finished the final episode of Blade. I have to admit to still being disappointed with the outcome on my rewatch. Sometimes I can have a change of heart when I've got a few years of distance when viewing a show's run.

Frankie Drake Mysteries had a great episode. I'm starting to like Grayson a little more and it'll be fun to see if Frankie's mom sticks around.

Watched the fifth episode of Daredevil and, eh, this is something of a slow-moving season. I do like where things are going and it's great to see Karen kind of have to face what she did in a previous season. That said, I'm enough of a Fisk non-fan to really not want to watch a bunch of scenes with him. And the FBI agent annoys the crap out of me. I actually think he's too smart to be playing things so stupidly. So, yeah, I hope the rest of the season evens out.

Started Riverdale's Bizarrodale episode and hope to finish it later today. This season has been dark and twisty and I like it.

New episodes of Killjoys have started and I'll be hopelessly behind on those, but I can't wait to watch this final season.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Passion's Gate, a follow up featuring the characters from Kindred Spirits.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Kirby Selwig meets Passion Gates and she rocks his world. She's a force to be reckoned with and a little out of control. Kirby is tasked with tempering her wild spirit—something she has no interest in taming. Too bad she doesn't know Kirby never fails to get results.

And a preview snippet…

Passion Gates had zero fucks to give about being welcome at Atherton's University of Magick and Alchemy.

Her gaze swept over the faces of everyone in the council room, lingering on one man in particular, before swinging back to the specimen of golden awesomeness standing before her.

Too bad she'd never have a piece of him. Not if he marched lockstep to the tune of Atherton's board. Something she'd never do.

She planted her hands on her hips. "I don't have all night. Someone needs to tell me why I've been summoned to your exalted presences." As if she couldn't guess.

Elixir. With the special little twist she'd added.

The blond stud took control of the conversation. "Well, Passion, here's the deal. We're here to meet with the board to discuss illegal tampering with a favorite alcohol in three different bars." His eyebrow quirked. "Would you like to shed some light on the situation?" His gaze challenged her to deny his supposition.

Good thing she had no plan to do so. "Well… Kirby, was it? I can shed whatever you want on the situation down to the exact incantation used to add the strong sexual component to the brew." She paused and glanced toward the board. "Unless you think it might be too much for the old hard-asses to understand." Pinning the man in the center with her gaze, she smirked.

Dean Hargrove rose to his less than impressive height. "That's enough, Ms. Gates. We perfectly understand the how. You'll be returning in one week's time to present the reason why and we'll determine whether you'll be facing criminal charges to be transferred to the magistrate." His voice wobbled on the last part.

Good. He should have reservations. And he also shouldn't expect her to fall in line.

Passion snorted. "You're wrong. I'm not one of your students; you have no jurisdiction over someone not enrolled in your precious university." She turned and started for the door but glanced back. "And I'm just getting started. You'd do well to stay out of my way, Uncle Dean." The collective gasps and chorus of shocked responses filled her with a sad sense of victory.

When she dropped a bomb, she aimed for the biggest and best impact.

I love, love, love this story. I'm having so much fun with the first novella and Passion kind of walked in and parked her bold badass self in my brain and the sages started whispering. I won't be complaining about that at all.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Kindred Spirits

December 2, 2018

Hello, December. Per usual, the weather in Ohio is crazy back and forth. Super cold for several days then sixty degrees then back to super cold again. And rain. Lots and lots of rain. Bleh.

It's been another busy workweek with a rush job for a holiday release and finishing up another manuscript. Throw in car trouble on Friday with not one but two vehicles and, yeah, lost the whole day. LOL

Television was a mixed bag of viewing pleasure. I finished out last week with Pensacola Wings of Gold watching a pretty interesting episode where one of the marines got set up by another government worker. Lexx's second season is at the wobbly part where one episode is great and the next is not so much. Also caught a Hallmark movie, An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving, which has three of my favorite actresses. Should be following up with the Christmas movie this week if my schedule doesn't blow up again.

I have to take a moment and rave about The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. This show always ends up making me smile, even when the storyline is somewhat sad. The fifth episode ended up making laugh out loud and I needed it this past week.

I followed up the funny with some serious emotional drama in Strike Back. Almost through season five, which should catch me up for season six. I gotta say this show does a great job at not letting the members of section twenty save the day in an easy fashion. Two steps forward and five steps back is things usually go for them.

Chicago Fire is kind of losing me with this whole deputy commissioner bullshit. Kind of like Chicago PD lost me with sticking someone in just to put a leash on Hank. I'll finish out this season but if there isn't a big change, I'll be skipping the next with the exception of crossover episodes. I love crossovers.

I'm almost finished with Luke Cage's second season. I'll be honest, I'm really disappointed there won't be more and supposedly it's because of the whole Disney + streaming service that's not even launched yet. I'm all for choice and options, but when services get overly proprietary, they sometimes shoot themselves in the foot. I hope that doesn't happen here.

Passionflix debuted another Quickie with Dry Spell and it was funny and sweet but not sugary. I enjoyed it.

I also caught Murdoch Mysteries and liked seeing Terence back again. Finished out the night with a Christmas Belle, a holiday spin on Beauty and the Beast.

Not a bad week of viewing. Tonight's post is from Kindred Spirits, a novella that started with a prompt of set your characters in a high school or college / university and see what happens.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Merrit Rhodes accepts a teaching position at the Athena Academy of Magic and Semblance to earn her rites. Vaughn Gregorvich and Kirby Selwig are best friends and fellow instructors who fall hard for the newest addition to the campus. Sparks literally fly when the trio decides to test the power of three after a night of drinking a powerfully potent new cocktail called Elixir.

And a preview snippet…

Aw, hell, no. Not again.

Merrit Rhodes struck Vaughn Gregorvich in the metaphorical solar plexus the moment she glanced his way. His immediate attraction to her spelled trouble, which he needed to avoid. He couldn't afford a repeat of what happened with Nina Bastion.

The vision of loveliness inclined her chin. "It's nice to meet you."

Great Mage, her voice conjured images of sinful things and made his dick hard. Oh, yeah, I'm in trouble. He had to be aloof and controlled. Vaughn's place in the grand scheme of Atherton's meant he couldn't be standoffish, but he had to stay away… if Merrit wanted to learn control.

Why did he have to get hit with a powerful attraction now? When he'd finally worked through the debacle left behind by Nina?

Kirby, ever the showman, grasped Merrit's hands. "Well, hello, Mistress Rhodes."

Vaughn rolled his eyes. Kirby used his roguish tone and waggled his eyebrows. Figured he'd be sniffing around the newest protégé, too. Why not? She commanded admiration.

And of course Kirby turned on the charm. The guy had chemistry with anything that walked. And stuff that didn't move, too.

Not the first time Vaughn and Kirby had a rivalry for a female. But they'd never been responsible for her future before.

They were now.

Merrit's lips curved in a wry smile. "I can't claim the title of mistress yet."

Kirby snorted and opened his mouth to respond, but Hargrove stepped in. "Ah, but you can. You're official as of this meeting."

She shrugged. "That'll take some getting used to." She sent a glance Vaughn's way.

He gave a small nod. "You'll manage just fine. It won't be as hard as you think." Damn, he kind of sounded like a complete ass.

Merrit gave him a long, considering look then turned with a smile toward Kirby. "Thanks for the warm welcome."

And, okay, he probably deserved the snub. Stupid Kirby had a leg up.

Wait. That didn't matter. No way would Vaughn be pursuing anything more than instructing and training with Merrit.

Dean Hargrove clapped his hands together. "Gentlemen, why don't you get Merrit assigned to a classroom then reserve a training area." He started herding them toward the door. "Block of a semester for their use. Merrit will stay, in residence, so make sure you consider that when choosing a training area." Dean focused on Vaughn when speaking.

Which meant he needed to make sure the suite they chose had a partitioned area with a shower and bath combo along with a kitchenette. Only four were available and Vaughn wanted the largest one so the trio could work and spread out during training.

Merrit shook her head. "Oh, no. I can't accept." Hargrove bore the brunt of her gaze. "We didn't discuss that as being part of getting in to Atherton's."

Kirby jumped in this time. "Merrit—can I call you Merrit—we'll save Mistress Rhodes for the classroom…" His voice trailed off a moment and his gaze drifted far away before he shook his head and continued. "Unless that's a problem for you?" His eyebrow quirked.

Vaughn had a solid idea where his friend's mind went during the brief lull in conversation. The shithead no doubt pictured Merrit in black leather or latex with shiny red boots and a matching riding crop. An adept master, Kirby should be beyond the juvenile wet-dream response to the mistress title. For that matter, Vaughn should be too. Yet the heavy length of his cock growing bigger by the second proved he couldn't claim maturity either.

Merrit blinked in response to Kirby's verbal onslaught.

Vaughn cracked a genuine smile and took the opening. "What my motor-mouth friend is trying to say is it's common practice for a raw recruit to live on the premises while they're training." She directed her attention to him and Vaughn fought the kick of attraction again. "You'll be teaching at least six hours a day and learning craft and control can be exhausting. You'll probably find it convenient to avoid a commute back and forth into the city."

Merrit flashed a smile and glance toward the dean. "Is there a fee for living expenses?"

Hargrove shook his head. "No, dear. Master Gregorvich left out the part where you'll be using the phases of the moon while training. It's much easier to have you onsite to take advantage of your time." He nudged her toward the door again. "We don't charge you for rooming here. It's part of your salary for teaching. You'll be responsible for meals and uniforms."

Kirby hopped back into the conversation. "We'll show you where you can purchase everything you need." He deferred to Hargrove. "May we get started, Dean?"

Hargrove waved a hand to dismiss them but gave Vaughn a barely perceptible nod. Vaughn dropped his mental shield to allow the dean to speak telepathically.

Hargrove didn't mince words. "Mind this one carefully. She's got a very bright future if all goes well."

Vaughn responded. "I'll personally monitor her progress and report directly to you."

Hargrove lifted his chin. "I'll count on you to help her find her path."

He didn't mean the statement as a warning, but Vaughn took it as one. He definitely needed to quell the raging lust he had for her.

No way would he survive a repeat of Nina.

I had no idea exactly where I wanted this one to go but everything finally fell into place along with the idea for a continuation. I can't wait to see where else this universe takes me.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Kindred Spirits

Whew. What a week of television. The Walking Dead had another terrific episode. Thoroughly enjoyed the hijinks with Rick and Daryl. Something tells me it's the calm before the storm.

Well, the X-Files disappointed many fans, but I actually loved having it back for its limited run. That said, what a craptastic cliffhanger. Geez. But, my other shows amped up the goods. The Magicians is truly becoming a quick favorite. And Lost Girl will be so missed, which I say all the time. Then there's Bitten, another favorite I wish would continue onward. *sigh*

The Flash revealed something I totally didn't expect. Now I can't wait to see what happens. I'm totally loving the shared universe with characters popping up on other shows. More on that later. Agent Carter has one more episode, which is awesome! I thought last week was the finale. Sadly, I'm not holding much hope we'll get another season, but fingers are crossed anyway.

Arrow keeps blowing my mind. And it's in a great way. That said, I'm looking forward to Malcolm getting his comeuppance. If that doesn't happen, I'll be sorely disappointed. And, well, other things need to happen, too. Just saying.

Legends of Tomorrow, again, changed things up. I thought it was very cool to see future Star City, even in crazy disarray. Shades of things to come perhaps? Eh, who knows? Arrow may only get one more season after this one.

I watched the Blindspot marathon Saturday. Really like the show. Too bad it's on NBC, my most hated network ever. I pretty much refuse to watch anything on the channel. So, looks like I'll be watching Blindspot when it's on another channel or via Netflix or Amazon Prime.

And that's it for TV this week.

Tonight's post is from Kindred Spirits, a novella that got its start by the sages dropping a plot bomb in a dream. LOL

Here's the mini-blurb:

Merrit Rhodes accepts a teaching position at the Athena Academy of Magic and Semblance to earn her rites. Vaughn Gregorvich and Kirby Selwig are best friends and fellow instructors who fall hard for the newest addition to the campus. Sparks literally fly when the trio decides to test the power of three after a night of drinking a powerfully potent new cocktail called Elixir.

And the preview snippet…

Merrit Rhodes sat in silent contemplation. She hated interviews. With a passion.

The double doors to the dean's chambers opened and Merrit stood, waiting for the summons to enter. A tiny, wizened man motioned her forward with a wave of his hand. His small stature would probably fool many applicants into a false sense of security, but Merrit didn't happen to be one of them.

She paused at the edge of the desk and met his gaze. "Dean Hargrove, it's nice to meet you." She bowed her head in respectful deference.

Hargrove clapped his hands and chortled. "Merrit Rhodes. You may have graduated from the street school of hard spells and conjuring, but you're the first person to address me properly." He pushed his chair back and slid down, his head barely visible above the huge monstrosity of a desk when he made his way around.

Merrit took his outstretched palm when he offered it in greeting and shook firmly, unwilling to make a possible misstep by easing up on her grip. "It's nice to meet you, sir."

Hargrove smiled again and directed her to sit in one of the chairs facing the desk. He flicked his fingers and a small platform nudged out from under the other wingback and he stepped up to take a seat.

He folded his hands in his lap. "I'm inclined to accept you based solely on your greeting, but let's muddle through some of the traditional questions." Her file materialized on the table between the chairs, the folder opened and a feathered scribe hovered over the page.

Merrit bit back a grin. She liked Hargrove's flair. And the man didn't dwell on her less than stellar education and instead peppered her with questions about her parents' occupations. Her mother practiced as an oracle with an uncanny accuracy rate. Her dad made conjuring an art form. Literally. His work routinely landed in museums, galleries, and garnered private commissions. Sadly, her father's income amounted to practically nothing, his salary being tied up in trust accounts unattainable until his death.

Hence her lack of a quality formal education, which didn't appear to faze Dean Hargrove.

The little man flashed a knowing smile. "You're very intuitive, a trait shared with your mother." He scooted forward, his face aglow. "And your skill with manipulative magick is impressive, if uncontrolled." Tapping the file on the table, he met her gaze. "You've passed all the qualification exams, meaning as far as the board of mages is concerned you lack only one criterion to earn your full rites." He paused and tilted his head to one side.

Merrit nodded. "Monitored experience."

Hargrove sobered. "Yes. Your scores indicate an inherent ability, but your lack of control is a concern." He brought his hand up to rub his chin. "But I have a solution, if you're willing to consider something a little unorthodox." His gaze slid sideways toward her.

Merrit's lips twitched. "Well, sir, unorthodox is kind of my normal. What do you have in mind?" Hope soared and, for once, she didn't fight to contain the feeling.

The dean rubbed his hands together. "I'd like you to consider teaching a novice class for at least two semesters. You have the knowledge and ability to merit guiding students while they learn the simple building blocks we base all magick foundations on." He paused and watched her carefully.

Heart sinking a little, Merrit forged ahead. "As you're well aware of my financial situation, I'll be happy for the work." She stopped there, unwilling to ask for more.

Hargrove gave a barely perceptible nod. "While you're in residence teaching, I'm going to have you work with two of our premier adepts to learn control using your mind and body." He snapped his fingers and the double doors snicked open.

Merrit's eyes widened when two gorgeous men entered the room and she struggled to keep her mouth from dropping open. Tall, handsome, one dark, one light, both built by the gods to visually please the senses. And the dean wanted her to glean knowledge from them? Hell, yes.

She angled her head and met the dean's gaze. "Thank you."

His sly little smirk had her brain spinning in directions it shouldn't go, but Merrit wisely said nothing else.

Hargrove shuffled off the chair. "Welcome to Atherton's, Merrit. I think introductions are in order."

Merrit hit the jackpot with her tutors and she'll take full advantage of their presence.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Kindred Spirits

February 2, 2014

Hiya!

Remember when I mentioned being in for Bitten last week? Well, I'm a little more than in… I've become quite obsessed. Like scary obsessed. Haven't done that since Arrow last year, when I rewatched every episode like three times in a row before it would leave my brain. Yeah, that's what Bitten has been doing to me. And I've got books I can read and devour, too. Oddly, I've had them on my Kindle for ages and ages, but haven't been in the mood to really dive into a full series read. I am now. LOL

Walking Dead returns next Sunday. YAY! My middle kidlet and I always enjoy being completely grossed out before bedtime. J Helix has filled that slot a little, but it's not quite as compelling as TWD, in my opinion. Good show, but I haven't found anyone I want to root for yet. Actually, I take that back. I did… but the character is now dead. Dammit.

Oh, and, Captain America: Winter Soldier? April needs to get here right now. My soft spot for Cap is getting bigger and bigger. :D

Tonight's post is from the novella, Kindred Spirits where my characters discover a wicked awesome side effect to a new liquid beverage that affects people with magical ability.

Here's the tagline:

Merrit Rhodes accepts a teaching position at the Athena Academy of Magic and Semblance to earn her rites. Vaughn Gregorvich and Kirby Selwig are best friends and fellow instructors who fall hard for the newest addition to the campus. Sparks literally fly when the trio decides to test the power of three after a night of drinking a powerfully potent new cocktail called Elixir.

And a preview snippet…

Merrit downed the shot. The liquid burned the back of her throat and blazed a fiery trail down her esophagus before hitting her stomach like molten lava.

She blinked and blew out a harsh breath. "Whoa. What the hell is this stuff called, again?" She actually wondered if her next exhale would have flames or puffs of smoke, at the very least.

Kirby laughed, patting her on the back. "Elixir, the preferred liquor for discerning tastes." He chugged his first round down.

Merrit shook her head. "Geez, I didn't know I had discerning taste." A burst of warmth spread from her gut outward, heating up her limbs and face.

Good Grand Master Wizard, the alcohol packed a potent punch.

Vaughn's lips curved in a sly smile. "You don't. You're hooked up with him."

Kirby flipped his best friend off and nudged a shot glass in Vaughn's direction. "Drink up, buddy."

Vaughn lifted the tumbler and Merrit exchanged a brief look with Kirby. His head jerked slightly back and forth. Okay, Kirby hadn't mentioned their decision to not be an 'item'. Fine, she could deal. Vaughn would find out soon enough.

Vaughn knocked the drink back and winced, blowing out hard breath. "Damn. What a burn." His eyes met Merrit's. "Can you feel the heat?"

She chuckled. "Wait for it."

He flexed his fingers. "Son of a bitch. My fingers are tingling." He leaned in closer. "It's like the first time I conjured something from nothing."

Kirby grinned. "Yeah. Yeah. That's exactly what it feels like." His smile slowly faded. "Whose idea was this again? I mean, damn, I feel drunk already."

Merrit nodded. "And hot, right? That hasn't gone away." She fanned her face. "If anything, it's increasing." She squirmed a little, moisture pooling between her legs.

Her attraction for Kirby and Vaughn caught flame and flared bright and unchecked.

Vaughn cocked his head. "You don't suppose there's more than just liquor in this stuff, do you?" He shifted on his chair.

Kirby's eyes narrowed. "Like what? A drug or something?"

Vaughn shrugged. "I don't know, maybe. Not to be crude, but if my jeans get any tighter, I'm not gonna be able to walk."

Merrit squirmed. She understood the feeling. The idea Vaughn had a physical reaction close to hers only increased the steady thrum of desire coursing through her veins.

She swung her gaze toward Kirby. "What about you? Are you having the same dilemma?"

He glanced around then leaned in. "Um, yeah, and it's getting damned uncomfortable." His hand dropped below the table and he made a quick adjustment.

His motion kicked up the needy sensation and Merrit fought the urge to rush to the ladies room to relieve the throb between her legs. Her gut feeling? Wouldn't help. She needed something long and hard to quench the flames fanning out of control. The pinch of frustration clamped hard and she shuddered, willing it to subside.

No such luck.

Vaughn and Kirby appeared to have the same problem. Merrit shoved rational thought out of the way and made a snap decision.

She placed her hands on the table, barely keeping them from slapping the surface. "Guys. I can't stand it." She slid her gaze between the two. "We gotta get out of here. Now."

Vaughn picked up on her urgency. "Where?" He started to rise, ready to go.

Kirby snapped his fingers. "I know a place. Two blocks down. Private, quiet, and not usually patrolled." He slid his chair back, wincing when he stood up.

Merrit pushed backward and sucked in a harsh breath. The movement had enough friction she wondered if she'd make it the few blocks.

Vaughn held out a hand. She accepted the silent invitation and let him lead her through the throng of patrons, following Kirby out the main entrance. Once outside, the cool night air provided a small measure of relief. She heaved a relieved sigh and Vaughn made a movement to step away when Kirby wrapped an arm around her waist.

Merrit laced her fingers with Vaughn's and tightly clasped his palm. "You're not going anywhere. I want you right here."

Needless to say, my trio is going to want to experiment several times with this new alcohol—all in the name of research, of course. J

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye