Sunday Snippet: Not Gonna Happen

Whew. It's been a week, right? I finished up several projects and got a couple of new ones lined up. My workload is changing in a lot of ways and I'm happily adapting to the new lineup. Change is good, even when you (meaning me) don't like it. At least that's what I've discovered lately.

Had a very solid week of television viewing. I have something of a pattern and I watch shows on a bit of a schedule. This week everything kind of seemed to speed along.

I ended up getting in three Snoopy in Space: The Search for Life. I'm enjoying the second season of this show. The episodes are pretty short and fun to watch.

Finished up the Queens of Mystery second part and thoroughly enjoyed the episode. I'm a little frustrated by the overarching mystery of Mattie's mom but I'm very willing to give this show a lot of leeway.

Watched three episodes of Silent Witness. The second two-parter ended up being pretty enjoyable. I like the vibe of having the forensic science mixed in with the pathology. After fifteen seasons, it's probably past time to introduce that into the mix.

Enjoyed two more Classic Who episodes. I actually kind of like the format for this season with Six being on trial. It's a nice change of pace and something a little different from the norm.

Caught two more episodes of The Muppets. Weirdly, the show really started to gel for me in the last couple of episodes. It's more inclusive and somewhat similar to the older format. And it's fun.

Watched two more episodes of The Alaska Triangle. I'm very much into the unknown mysteries that haven't been discovered there yet. Dinosaurs, UFOs, weird paranormal encounters. This show has everything.

I'm loving Harrow. I got two more episodes watched and the walls are kind of closing in on the bigger arc of who killed Robert Quinn. I'm kind of excited to see where it ends up.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice and the characters said good-bye to David. It's about halfway through the seventh season and I'm interested in what will follow and what the fallout will be.

Enjoyed two more MasterClass lessons with Es Devlin. She discussed mazes and patterns and the audience and both classes were very interesting. If nothing else, she's given me a new way of looking at projects and I'm here for that.

Got two episodes of Paranoid in and, wow, things are heating up. This is a very twisty and turny mystery and I like how things are playing out. I also love that the three leads are kind of a total mess but still get the job done.

Caught two episodes of Classic Rugrats. While none were my faves, they were great to watch as I'd kind of forgotten them. Nice to be reminded.

Watched two episodes of Chicago Med and I really, really don't like the COO person. As a foil for Sharon, I get the need to have her but, yikes, she's awful, terrible, and rage inducing.

Enjoyed two bonus episodes of The Brokenwood Mysteries. A behind-the-scenes short and an interview with the two leads. I finished out everything that's currently available and I'll have to find a new show to start this week to go along with Queens of Mystery.

Got the first of a two-part Blue Heelers watched. I have a sneaky feeling this might be Wayne's swan song. The episode ended up being better than I expected. Can't wait to finish it next week.

Star Trek: Discovery once again kind of blew my mind. I love the interaction with Spock and Michael. The same goes for Michael and Ash. Actually, all the relationships on this show are amazing. Seriously, amazing.

That's pretty much it for this week's update. Tonight's post is from Not Gonna Happen, a novella that puts my main characters in a tricky situation when they have an unknown entity on their trail.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Gina Ames and Tuck Danvers sign up for a weekend of hunting for an urban legend. When their other team members start dropping, one by one, they take off for the safety of the city. Too bad the concrete and steel can't protect them from what follows them home.

And a preview snippet…

Gina's leg jackhammered under the table and her fingers beat a rapid staccato on the seat. Tuck slid his gaze to the window, gauging how much longer they should wait before they headed for Jake and Marley's. If they didn't go soon, Gina might bounce right out of the booth.

"I gotta pee. Coffee went right through me." She scooted off the bench. "We're outta here as soon as I'm done. Mr. Creepy or no Mr. Creepy." She didn't wait for a reply.

Tuck grunted. "Your call, I guess." Not that he minded—hell, he couldn't take any more inactivity either.

Energy burned through his system and needed an outlet.

She took less than three minutes and Tuck paid the tab with two twenties. Shirl deserved a fat tip for keeping them in food and coffee for two hours.

Gina grabbed her jacket. "Sorry, that was a bitch move, but I can't sit anymore. I gotta do something." Her free hand balled into a fist.

Tuck lifted his chin. "Yeah, I get it." His gaze scanned the buildings across the street. "It's all clear for now. Let's go." He led the way to the exit, giving Shirl a wave before pushing the door open.

The early dawn light fingered through the trees, casting shadows on the sidewalk. Gina stuck close to his side when they crossed the road and started up the block. Jake and Marley had a two-floor condo with a finished basement in a complex several blocks up the street. With luck, they'd get there unscathed.

Gina tugged on his belt loop. "Front or back?"

Good question. If they walked in the front door, they'd stay straight at the corner. If they wanted to enter through the back, they'd turn right and cut down the alleyway. The street-side entrance would leave them less exposed, but the rear gave them some protection if they had to take cover.

He nudged her shoulder. "Back. We'll have less room to maneuver but—"

She finished his statement. "We've got more protection if shit goes sideways."

He nodded. "Right."

Halfway up the block, they dashed across four lanes and ducked into the narrow passage between the condo units and an apartment building. Dumpsters nestled between the garages on the condo side and a waste management truck made its way slowly along the asphalt. Tuck estimated they'd have enough time to get inside Jake and Marley's unit before the vehicle stopped to get their trash.

Gina paused with the key in her hand and rested her head on the door. "Not sure I can do this, Tuck." Her fingers trembled.

He gently took the key, slid it home, and twisted the knob. "We can and will. For Jake and Marley." He pushed the steel door inward, grabbed Gina's hand, and stepped inside their friends' home.

Gina exhaled slowly then let out a gasp. "Son of a bitch."

His gaze snapped to where she pointed and his gut twisted. "Well … that explains it."

I love the dynamic between Tuck and Gina. They've got a dangerous road to travel and they'll have to rely on each other to stay alive.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!         

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Not Enough Hope

Very intense and bizarre weather this past week. We had a significant warm up, which melted a lot of the snow. Then we had a ton of rain followed by high water and flooding. To top it off, the temperatures dropped again into the teens and twenties and we got more icy rain and snow. Seriously, it's crazy.

Had a very busy work week with projects landing in my inbox. I'm happy to have the work flowing and keeping me busy. Oddly, my writing time is shorter but I'm getting a lot done.

Had a solid week of television viewing. Introduced a couple of additional shows and I'll be adding a new one next week.

Caught two episodes of Snoopy in Space: The Search for Life and finished up the first season. I'll start season two this week.

Started a new two-part Queens of Mystery and rather enjoyed the episode. I love the aunts and I'm starting to really enjoy the secondary characters. Matilda is such a great character even if she frustrates me sometimes.

Finished up the second half of Silent Witness's opening for season sixteen. Started a new two-parter and enjoyed it.

Watched three episodes of Classic Who. I should finish the arc up this week and move on to the next one.

Caught two more episodes of The Alaska Triangle. I have so much fun watching this show. I really love the haunted places and mysterious forces vignettes.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Muppets. The show has really grown on me even if it'll never replace the original in my mind.

Watched two more episodes of Harrow. I'm quite enamored with this show and I hope things play out the way I'm expecting them to. There's a twist I didn't quite expect and I love it and it also makes me think things will fall where I think they're going to. I can't wait to find out.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice and even though I knew what to expect, the death did not play the way I thought it would. I'm not sure if that's a good or bad thing yet.

Enjoyed two more MasterClass lessons with Es Devlin. She discussed scale and architecture along with storytelling with light. The light lesson fascinated me. I'm a sucker for well-lit—not to be confused with brightly lit—settings. I'm glad I dropped into this class.

Watched two episodes of Paranoid. I'm quite taken with this show. I love the intrigue and mystery and the dynamic of the forming relationships. I think this one might end up with something of a gotcha and I'm quietly waiting with anticipation to see if I'm right.

Caught two episodes of Classic Rugrats. One of my favorites, "Meet the Carmichaels," gave me some happy joy for the week. This show fills me with so much nostalgia.

Finished up season three of Chicago Med and started season four. A lot went down on the three finale. I'm still trying to wrap my head around where everyone currently is in the opening of four.

I watched the last available episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I have two behind-the-scenes specials to watch and then I'll have to impatiently wait for anything new.

Finished up an older episode of Blue Heelers. I'll be adding more of these to my weekly lineup. Looking forward to getting back into this one.

Also caught another episode of Star Trek: Discovery. Man, this series really brings a great cast of characters together. I'm never bored and I'm glad I'm watching the second season right now because I'm getting to know Pike at the best possible time with the new Trek arriving soon. I can't wait.

That's pretty much it for this week's viewing update. Tonight's post is from Not Enough Hope, a novella that puts a reunion on hold with fae court intrigue.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Early Gibbons walks away from her position in the fae court—and Salem Powell—to forge her own path in the human realm. When she discovers a vengeance hound on her trail, she returns to the land of fae to find out who unleashed the beast, which may be tricky since Salem is the leader and she can't discount him as the culprit.

And a preview snippet…

Salem waited until the ashes cooled before he started home. He'd shut everything out for the duration of Glenda's final rest. Blank. Cold. Alone. Wallowing in grief? An emotion he couldn't afford and didn't deserve to have.

Yet he grieved. More for the loss of his friend instead of the love of his life. Early would forever have that sole distinction.

And he kind of hated her for holding the title.

Making his way along the overgrown path, he opened up his mind to other bits and pieces. No one asked his permission to let loose a curse. Technically, they didn't have to gain consent, but most of the fae court respected him enough to enquire. A vengeance hound proved difficult to summon. And Salem probably wouldn't grant allowance. Hounds—vengeance, hell, shadow—tended to be used underground, definitely not out in the open. Which meant someone wanted his position. Why else would they send a creature into the human realm after Early?

If they kept Salem distracted, a power grab would be much easier. He'd have to fight to keep the mantle of leadership. Oddly, he found he wanted to, which not only surprised him, the idea shook him up.

He hadn't asked for the responsibility of leading the fae court. Instead, he'd had it thrust upon him on the Wise One's death. Salem refused the moniker, stating he hadn't gained enough years to be considered in the same realm as their former master. He accepted the title of Chief Magistrate and performed his duties with as much fairness and diplomacy as possible. Which didn't always please everyone.

Especially some of the more volatile fae factions. Peace had reigned for more than a decade, the result of the Wise One's hard work and diplomacy. Some of the more aggressive sects—the mesmers, the shifters, and the mindbenders—champed at the bit to inspire conflict and dredge up old grudges.

Salem took the trail that curved around the lake then skirted the village square before turning onto the lane leading to the proper residences of the court. Even the homes in the small town had strong divisions, with like-minded groups sticking together. The task of discovering who unleashed a vengeance hound weighed heavily on his mind. But he couldn't put off starting the search.

I love writing this one. Internal conflict with an external push is always fun.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Not Again

My youngest kiddo is twenty today. I'm officially no longer a parent of a teenager. Wow. Feels like a milestone.

Had a long week of work projects but got a decent amount of television viewing done also. Sometimes running in the background and other times when I needed to shut my brain off for a while.

I caught two more episodes of The Alaska Triangle. Skagway featured as a gold-rush ghost town and an island with a possible colony of bigfoot ended up being really interesting.

Watched two episodes of The Muppets. The show is growing on me, which is kind of moot since it's only a single season, I believe.

Enjoyed two episodes of Harrow. I'm very intrigued by the backstory mystery. I want to know who Harrow is protecting because I don't buy into the idea he's the culprit. I'm leaning toward Fern at the moment.

Caught two episodes of Peak Practice. I'm liking season seven even if it's kind of messy at the moment. I also rather love the new doctor.

Dove into two more MasterClass lessons with Es Devlin. I love the way she describes her process and how she encourages collaboration. I think I'm going to love this class.

Started The Witcher: Nightmares of the Wolf and didn't finish it. I'm not in the right head space for the animation right now. I'll pick it back up at some point.

Enjoyed two episodes of Classic Rugrats. This is one of my background shows. I can put an episode on and enjoy while I'm digging into something else. I needed that this week.

Watched two episodes of Chicago Med. I'm very interested in the episode titles and like how they're all part of a theme. This show is so good.

I'm almost finished with the first season of Snoopy in Space. This is another background show that I can put on and enjoy when I need a break. The episodes are a quick ten minutes and very fun to watch.

Caught another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I'll probably finish this show up and then have to wait impatiently for a new season. My one singular critique of this show is having Gina be so clueless about Mike's disinterest. It's been seven seasons and I kind of wish they'd address that dynamic at some point.

Started a new season of Silent Witness and while there's no Harry anymore, I like the changes. Should be fun to follow along now.

Finished up an arc of Classic Who and will usher in a new season this week. I'll be interested to see where the show goes from here.

Started a new mystery show with Paranoid and thoroughly enjoyed the first episode. I'll enjoy diving into this one.

That's pretty much it for the weekly update. Tonight's post is from Not Again, a novella where my main characters are reunited and have some issues to work through.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Drue Braddock and Xeno Howlett have a rocky relationship, but when Drue goes off on one of her many soul-searching quests, Xeno decides he's had enough. When Drue returns, she finally knows what she wants—Xeno—but she may not get her chance because he's got someone new in his life.

And a preview snippet…

Xeno put a lid on the to-go cup. "Coffee's ready." He poured a regular mug for himself.

Lydia strolled into the kitchen, her gossamer dress clinging to her curves. "What do you have planned to do all day?" She took a bagel from the toaster and spread almond butter over the surface.

He frowned. In the two months she'd been living in the apartment, they'd never made small talk before she headed out for the studio. She liked to focus and prepare for her day's work and he didn't mind the quiet beginning to his morning—he'd had those with Drue also. Lydia making conversation raised a flag.

He blew across the top of his mug. "I've never had to give you a rundown before." His eyebrow arched asking why now.

Lydia slid him a sideways glance. "Your ex just blew back into town. Forgive my curiosity about whether you plan to be seeing her or not." She nibbled on the bagel then set it aside, wrinkling her nose.

The gesture annoyed him … for no reason. Lydia often took two bites of something then decided not to finish. Something about wasting the food never set well with him. But he'd address that issue later…

Xeno placed his mug on the counter. "Let's get something straight, Lydia. I'm not down with giving you a line-by-line look at my schedule. At some point, it's inevitable I'll run into Drue. When that happens, I'll let you know." He'd never held anything back … why start now?

Lydia crossed into the living room. "I don't see a reason you need to interact with her." She grabbed her keys, a filmy cape, and her bag. "But, you're right, you'll eventually cross paths—she'll no doubt make certain you do." Her voice all but did an eye roll.

He didn't care for the snide tone. "Even if that's the case, it doesn't affect us." He entered the room and stood by the door. "I have a history with her. Hell, we both do. There's no avoiding that." He wouldn't try, except to make it clear he'd moved on.

She shrugged. "Maybe not. But we don't have to play the same song on repeat, do we?" She flung her cloak over her shoulder and sailed out the door.

Xeno narrowed his gaze. "I don't think I'm the one stuck in a groove here." Shutting the solid oak panel, he stopped by the kitchen for his coffee then headed for the office he used to share with Drue.

Sitting behind the desk, he heaved a sigh. "I've removed all trace of her, yet her presence looms large." Which made the dig about playing the same tune sting a little more.

He'd already cut Drue physically out of his life—if only to shake things up and help him not repeat past mistakes. He'd kept their interaction to a minimum, all but throwing her out of the place she'd called home for over three years. Eventually, the images of their life together would fade and be replaced with new memories … right?

His head dropped into his hands. "If not … there's gonna be hell to pay."

And he wanted to avoid that scenario at all costs.

Xeno is pretty much in denial at the moment but Drue won't let him stay there. I'm having a great time with this story.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Noble Kidnapping

The first week of February is pretty much in the books and didn't start off too badly. I ended up with several new projects in my inbox and that never fails to make me happy.

Had a very good week of watching television. Considering we got hammered with a bunch of snow and ice, I'm glad I had power to keep the lights and television on.

I watched a little more of PassionFlix's Seduction and Snacks. Holy crap, the awkwardness is off-the-charts terrific. Kudos to the actors for nailing that down with skill and talent.

I finished up an arc of Classic Who and started a new one. The daleks feature in the current one and Davros. Jury is out on whether I'll like it or not.

Caught two episodes of The Alaska Triangle. Finished the first season and started the second. The Alaska Bigfoot episode ended up being more interesting than I thought it would be and the Dark Pyramid episode completely sucked me in. So many weird and unexplained or completely covered-up bits to unpack and explore.

Watched two episodes of The Muppets. The show is growing on me a little. I'm enjoying having the core group in different surroundings.

Started Harrow on the recommendation of my brother and enjoyed the first two episodes. I'm so curious about the overarching mystery and can't wait to find out more.

Enjoyed two episodes of Peak Practice. Season seven is moving right along and has a bit of a different feel to it. So far, I like it.

Finished up Bill Nye's MasterClass and started a new design class with Es Devlin. I think I'll enjoy her instruction and hopefully get some cool ideas.

Caught the two-part The Witcher: Bestiary shorts from season one. Kind of nice to get names and a bit of the lore behind the monsters.

Watched one of my very favorite episodes of Classic Rugrats with "The Santa Experience." My oldest and I used to watch this holiday episode a lot.

Enjoyed two more episodes of Chicago Med. I'm on the fence with whether or not I like Will and Natalie together. Sometimes I think they're perfect for each other and sometimes I think they're terrible together. I like that I can't decide which way to go on this one.

Caught two more episodes of Snoopy in Space. These are so much fun and I love having the human peanuts as the technical crew for Snoopy and Woodstock.

Enjoyed another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I'm almost finished with the last available season and I really, really hope there will be more.

Watched another two-part Silent Witness and finished out season fifteen. Based on what I read of the episode teasers, sixteen looks like it's Harry-free. I'm a little bummed but also diving into new stuff I haven't seen.

Loved the latest Star Trek: Discovery episode. This show is so good right now. Makes me excited for season two of Picard and the new show that debuts later this year.

Last but not least, I caught another episode of Queens of Mystery. I'm a little bummed about the lack of communication with Daniel and Matilda but slow burns can also be fun. I love the background mystery of Matilda seeking information about her mom's disappearance. Can't wait to find out more about that.

That's it for the weekly television update. Tonight's post is from A Noble Kidnapping, a novella that pits the leader of an underground rebellion against her childhood friend that inherited a noble title.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Jaina Wraith discovers Seb Morrison is a member of the nobility and she kidnaps him, fully intent on having him executed. When Seb reminds her how many times he's come to her aid, she has to decide whether to help him escape or leave him to a tragic fate.

And a preview snippet…

Seb's lips curved at her adamant statement. Her fear and uncertainty held her back—not that he didn't get the reason why. He'd let things stay stagnant far too long. Time to push for more.

He gently took her hand and led her to the bed. "Jaina, we had a connection but it's not the reason for my actions." He paused, waiting until she met his gaze then plunged ahead. "I love you. I have since the day on the docks after breaking up that scuffle between you and the lowlife Dav and Rash." Why the universe hadn't ended them, he'd never understand.

She blinked then focused. "How and why? Even then I was beneath you." Disbelief filled her voice.

Anger nipped at him. "Do you hear yourself? You've never been beneath me." He ran a hand through his hair. "Why fight the system if you don't believe you're worthy?" How could she not wrap her head around such a simple concept?

The dawn of understanding lit behind her eyes.

He laughed. "Finally. She gets it."

The wheels started turning, excitement vibrated between them. Her hands fluttered, her fingers clenching then releasing. She paced along the edge of the bed then stopped and faced him.

She shook her head. "I've been so stupid … you're the answer to turning the tide." Her eyes closed. "You've always been the answer."

Seb grinned. "We've got some plans to make." Finally being on the same page lifted a weight off his shoulders.

Jaina nodded. "We do, yes, but not tonight." She loosened her sash and dropped her robe. "Tonight … we take for ourselves." She moved forward, a vision of sultry desire, and nudged him back to sit on the mattress.

Then she straddled his lap. Seb's mouth watered, anticipating the taste of her succulent skin. Her mouth curved in a sexy grin.

Reaching out, Jaina pushed his robe from his shoulders. "Starting now."

I love this story so much. Reunion romance is one of my favorite tropes.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Muddy Up the Waters

January kind of flew by for me and I'm not quite ready for February yet. That said, I did establish a few new habits or routines and I'm a little thrilled I kept them up for the entire month.

Had a very solid week of television viewing. I kind of let the housework slide to stay caught up on work projects and had a chance to cycle through a bunch of shows.

Ended up getting in three episodes of Chicago Med. I'm almost finished with the third season and I'm still thoroughly enjoying this show so much.

Watched three episodes of Snoopy in Space: The Search for Life. These little shorts are fun and quick to get through. Nice to have something that works as a timed break when it's needed.

Finished up The Madame Blanc bonus episodes and eagerly await another season of this super engaging mysteries series.

Ended up catching three episodes of Silent Witness. The "Fear" two-parter ended up being really terrific and I don't remember watching it before. Looking forward to the next two-part episode.

Enjoyed the final two episodes of the Classic Who arc with Two and Six. Kind of fun to revisit the former doctor, especially since many of Two's episodes are lost to time.

Got two more episodes of The Alaska Triangle in. One focused on a lost flight and the thunderbird legend and the other about Mount Hope and a possible secret base, which had remote viewing involved and that subject fascinates me.

Watched two more episodes of The Muppets. I'm still finding my way with this show. It's entertaining but really lacks the charm of the original.

Finished up Fosse Verdon. Even though I knew how things ended, I still felt like someone punched me in the gut when the final moments aired. Hat tip to the cast of this terrific limited series.

Caught the final episode of Peak Practice season six and started season seven. Sad to see Erica no longer with the practice but looking forward to some new interactions with whoever takes over for her.

Watched two more lessons of MasterClass with Bill Nye. I have a bonus episode to watch then I'll start a new class. No idea what I'll pick up next but look forward to diving in.

Enjoyed a couple of extras for The Witcher. Started out with the making of season two and then caught the characters of the continent special. This week I'll probably dive into the beasts and monsters they deal with.

Caught a couple episodes of Classic Rugrats. Season two ranks as probably my favorite overall. That might change as I get further along, but right now, I'm remembering how many of my faves are in the second season.

Watched another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I like the new guy even if he's not quite as quirky as Breen. As always, it's fun to see recurring characters pop up in the course of the investigations.

Star Trek: Discovery continues to amaze me. I'm enjoying the red angel saga and how intertwined everything is. Nice to have Hugh back even if he's not quite himself. Should be fun to see how that plays out.

Started the second season of Queens of Mystery. I'm rather disappointed that Matilda and Daniel aren't anywhere close to being together. Miscommunication can be a blessing or a curse and I'm hoping it ends up being a blessing. We'll see how the season goes.

That's pretty much it for the television update this week. Tonight's post is from Muddy Up the Waters, a novella that stacks the odd against the characters even though they want to be together.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Fiona and Warrick can't quite get their timing together long enough to be on the same page when it comes to making a commitment. Instead they expend their energy on playing a game of who can hurt who the most … until one decides enough is enough.

And a preview snippet…

Warrick Lawton led Brigitt—no, Byrony—into his apartment above the fae council chambers. The old brick building had three fours and he lived on the top two. Perks of being the head of council.

Byrony's gaze darted around, taking in the living area and library. "Wow, nice space." A calculating gleam entered the flashing brown depths of her eyes.

No doubt she had some ideas on where she might put her stuff. He'd put a stop to any thoughts like that right away. He always did.

Warrick stepped in front of her, bringing her focus solely on him. "Don't do that. Don't plan ahead. This is a one-time thing." His hands grasped her shoulders. "I'm always honest about what I'm looking for and forever isn't it." He waited until she met his gaze. "If you want something more, I'm not game. The choice is yours." His hands dropped and he stepped back to give her room to make a decision.

Byrony gave him a slow, sultry smile. "I get it, Warrick. I'm sure I'm not the first or only woman who entertained a brief but bright wish she'd be the one to tame you." Her fingers went to the hem of her shirt. "I'll take what you're offering and walk away happy." She tugged the tee up and over her head.

If only another certain woman had taken what I offered and didn't walk away.  But, no, Fiona Freeman full-on rejected having a place at his side then fled the glade without a backward glance. Served him right … for thinking she'd want forever with him. Fiona didn't do forever.

And now, neither did he.

Dropping her shorts, Byrony arched a brow. "Planning to join me?" She grabbed his shirt and tugged him close.

He braced his hands on the wall behind her and lowered his head to snag her lips in a heated kiss. She moaned against his mouth and worked the button open and the zipper of his pants down then shoved them past his hips. Pressing her back against the paneled surface of the wall, she grasped his shoulders and wrapped her legs around his waist. He didn't hesitate, thrusting forward, going deep and grinding against her. Keeping one palm against the wall and the other cupping her ass, he nuzzled her throat.

She nipped at his ear, rocking her hips. "Not gonna last long, Warrick. I've wanted you too long." Her head lolled to one side and her breath came out in short, gasping pants.

Warrick gave a grunt of acknowledgment, focusing on getting her off. The least I can do considering she'll never have an opportunity for another round. And he'd take care of a basic need so he could convene the council without wanting to do bodily harm to the members.

Not exactly win-win, but he'd left that mindset behind the day Fiona left.

Warrick isn't really in a good space at the moment and he's going to get a big blast from the past in the near future.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Mr and Mrs Black

Kind of a busy, frustrating week. We dug out of eleven inches of snow, which is actually a lot more than we've seen in several years. I had a lot of work stuff hit sideways and struggled to get some insurance stuff sorted out for my middle kidlet.

Had a decent week of television viewing, mainly due to hold times on the phone. I started with Seduction and Snacks, a PassionFlix movie and have about half of it completed. I had to pause because the distractions were too many and I want to take my time and enjoy this one.

Got two more episodes of Snoopy in Space watched and kind of enjoyed both. It's fun to have something quick and easy to view.

Caught some behind-the-scenes stuff for The Madame Blanc Mysteries. So much fun to watch the cast interviews and get some insight on how they shot the series. I really hope they do a second one.

Finished up one and began a new Silent Witness two-parter. Good stuff this season. I'm looking forward to more.

Watched two more episodes of Classic Who. The Master is gone again—for now. Can't say I'm sorry to see him go. Six is kind of growing on me and it's fun to have two wandering around again. I'll see how that arc ends this week.

Enjoyed two more episodes of The Alaska Triangle. Shipwrecks and underwater UFOs and ghost ships were the focus. Always love watching what might have happened to downed ships.

Started The Muppets and, meh, it's okay. Really lacks the charm of the original but it's kind of fun to see the muppets in a docu-style series.

Caught another two episodes of Fosse Verdon. I'm so intrigued by the ins and outs of Bob and Gwen's personal and professional lives. Can't wait to finish this one.

Watched two more episodes of Peak Practice. I'm almost finished with season six and should be starting seven this week. I've enjoyed not having weird manipulating characters for the past few episodes.

Got two more MasterClass lessons with Bill Nye. I love how much fun he has educating people.

Ended up getting in two more episodes of Classic Rugrats—two of my favorites. I love reminiscing while watching.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med and enjoyed it a lot. Really looking forward for more next week.

Caught another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I'm kind of sad because a favorite character ended up saying good-bye. I'm hoping some light will be shed in the behind-the-scenes interviews.

Enjoyed a seriously great episode of Star Trek: Discovery. This show … never fails to suck me into the action and emotion.

Last but not least, I finished the second season of The Witcher. I'm so intrigued by the ending and can't wait for more episodes. I ended up being very satisfied with how things played out for the main trio and the side characters. I love this show.

That's it for the weekly television update. Tonight's post is from Mr and Mrs Black, a novella where a very-much-in-love couple discovers how many secrets they're keeping from each other.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Ember Frost and Winter Smoak, assassins for opposing factions, are ordered by their respective employers to kill each other, which would be so much easier if they weren't happily married but hiding some big secrets—like their occupations—from each other.

And a preview snippet…

"Do you understand the objective, Mr. Smoak?"

Fuck, yes, I do.

Winter stared at his screen then gave a nod. "Not much to misunderstand, is there?" He refused to let the icy rage take over or show in his tone. "I'll report no later than midnight."

After cutting the call, he closed his eyes and exhaled slowly. A deep, frigid chill settled over him, keeping the swirling tendrils of anger and fear at bay. He prided himself on never taking his work home or letting it get personal.

That ended now.

Because his job just took a turn into personal territory and parked right out front.

He swiped his finger over the image. "How could you do this to me?" Damn her to hell.

Hello, pot. You've got no room to talk.

Maybe not, but obviously he needed to have a conversation. And maybe a long internal discussion about missing the forest for the trees. And probably about being gullible enough to believe her cover, which okay, didn't look all that different from his.

The ice cracked a little but froze over again. No. He had to maintain a separation of fact and fiction.

She'd lied to him. "What a betrayal." Working for the other side, not as a consultant as he'd believed, but as a fixer. Assassin. All-around pain in the ass.

"Whose time has apparently run out."

Because his objective didn't leave any kind of wiggle room. And right now … being pissed off she'd kept something so utterly important from him would make his job easy. Find her then add another check to his achieved agenda.

A ping for an incoming text drew his attention.

He glanced at his phone. "Geez. Wouldn't you know?" His target made contact.

Ember kept the message short and sweet. "We need to meet. 524 Windsor Ave. ASAP."

He didn't think twice, firing off an immediate reply. "On my way."

Checking his weapon, he didn't know whether to thank the universe or curse it for Ember setting the meet away from their home. His personal stash of weaponry would come in handy, but she, no doubt, had a full cache hidden around also. She wouldn't be the number one most wanted if she didn't.

Exiting out into the chilly night air, he put his game face on. The mask slipped a little when he slid behind the wheel of his vehicle. For the first time in his long career, doubt about his profession crept in.

"Damn, this sucks big hairy ones."

Because he'd been tasked with taking Ember Black—no, Frost—out of commission. Permanently. The woman he happily married and loved more than anything.

I love writing this one. I have no idea exactly where it's going to go but it's fun making the discovery as I happily type away.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Mocking with a Side of Sarcasm

We're supposed to get dumped on by winter storm Izzy. I don't know, six to eleven inches doesn't seem like getting hammered by snow, but it'll make driving very not fun.

Had a great work week and started a new project. Also got another haul of books that I've already cracked open and started reading. I'm gonna need another bookcase in the near future.

Decent week of television also. Caught two episodes of Snoopy in Space: The Search for Life and kind of enjoyed them. They're super short and rather fun.

Finished up an episode of Silent Witness and started a new two-parter. This show continues to make me happy. Although Leo is being a bit of a shit and that disappoints me.

Caught two more episodes of Classic Who. The Master returned, which is kind of meh for me. I'm not a fan of his weirdness or one-note return to evil.

Watched two more episodes of The Alaska Triangle. Both focused on hauntings and one featured giants and the other had a creature called the kushtaka. I found everything fascinating. Gotta watch more shows about Alaskan lore.

Finished out season five of The Muppet Show. Johnny Cash, Buddy Rich, Linda Ronstadt, and Roger Moore were the guest stars. I'll probably start a new muppet series this week.

Caught two more episodes of Fosse Verdon. I feel like I missed out on so much by not really following this as it all happened. I didn't really get into Broadway shows until my late twenties, which is almost a decade after Fosse died.

Enjoyed two more episodes of Peak Practice. I'm nearing the end of season six and they've tackled a lot this season. Kind of looking forward to Claire having the baby to see where things go from there.

I finished up the first season of The Madame Blanc Mysteries. Only slightly surprised by who the villain turned out to be and I'm looking forward to seeing if this thread is picked back up if there's a second season.

Watched two more MasterClass lessons with Bill Nye. I truly enjoy how he presents information. I think I have about four more classes with him and I'm looking forward to more.

Caught two episodes of The Witcher. Man, the second episode almost did me in. Never thought I'd be so damned bummed about a horse. And, wow, the storm brewing around Ciri is getting intense. I only have two episodes left and I'm not sure I'm ready for them.

Enjoyed two more episodes of Classic Rugrats. This show makes me happy. The first two seasons are filled with so much tongue in cheek, yet very spot-on mayhem.

Watched two episodes of Chicago Med. I have a sad feeling Sarah is headed for lots of trouble. Really not sure about the whole Conor Beckett hookup. I mean, I know what happens but the way they get started is kind of bleh.

Started season seven of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I really hope there's more to come from this series. I have a lot of fun watching this group solve crime.

Also caught another episode of Star Trek: Discovery. Suru and Michael have come such a long way and I love their storyline. This show really makes me happy.

That's pretty much it for this week's television update. Tonight's post is from Mocking with a Side of Sarcasm, a novella where the characters butt heads in a great way.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Bentley Briggs is snarky on a good day, but when she becomes mocking and throws out a side of sarcasm, Vasek Barrett wants to know why. He discovers a secret Bentley doesn't want him to know and she'll elevate her vitriol to an art form, but it won't keep Vasek from lending a hand.

And a preview snippet…

What the hell have I walked in on?

Two men pacing back and forth never amounted to anything good. And their stricken and, yeah, guilty looks only added to her discomfort. Each man looked like an animal caught in the crosshairs.

Shit. "Aw, fuck. You told him." If she could get away with murder, she'd kill Teague right now. "You had no right to share that information. It's not your secret to tell." Okay, not entirely true but, dammit, she should've been able to tell Vasek. In her own time and her own way.

Now she wouldn't have the chance.

Teague moved forward. "He needed to know. If he doesn't give the hounds a heads-up, you run the risk of, at the very least, being tracked and tagged when they're on patrol." He snarled the words.

She hand-waved his concern. "So what? I've gone toe-to-toe with them before. It's not like they don't know me." Why all the drama?

Vasek stepped in. "Dammit, Bentley. Think about it. Do you know what they'll do to you if they get a bead on you?"

Her eyes narrowed. "Obviously I've missed something. What, exactly, is the problem?" Could she get any deeper in the shit pile?

Teague's lips flattened and his face went stony. Great. He blabbed to Vasek without any trouble but he wouldn't inform her? What happened to his all-consuming need to be parental?

Vas gave a sound of disgust. "If you don't tell her, I will. She needs to know, dammit."

A ball of dread spooled in her stomach. What the hell is going on?

Teague made a reluctant noise. "There are certain times of the month where your ability might manifest itself in ways that will be dangerous for you." He paced back and forth again. "Similar to when female animals go in heat. Unless you learn control, you could change without warning, give off a heightened scent, and-or draw potential mates to you without realizing it and they wouldn't be able to resist." He stopped walking. "Basically, the hounds wouldn't just track and tag, they'd track, tag, and fight to the death to take."

Bentley absorbed his words, letting the ramifications wash over her then completely lost her shit. "Well, that's just fucking awesome. Yet another way you've managed to screw everything up in my life." Balling her fists, she fought the urge to punch something. "Thanks for that, oh great sperm donor." She clicked her tongue against her teeth. "And thanks for the need to put the information out there. I'll bet Vasek can't wait to explain this to his faction." At least he'd take care to minimize the details and the damage.

Teague flung a hand out. "If you won't let me train you to mask the potential pitfalls, I have to be responsible and make sure we're not wasting time and resources on erroneous sightings or start a war during the patrols."

Bentley rolled her eyes. "Right. Just dandy you choose to take responsibility for this but couldn't be bothered after you dicked my mom. That's just perfect." She hated being such a bitch, especially with an audience that didn't deserve to have the sordid details of her parentage strewn out for his listening pleasure.

Teague sighed. "You know what? I'm only going to say this once. What I had with your mother went beyond wanting a good fuck. I loved her."

Bentley tsked. "Right, so much so, you left as soon as you found out you knocked her up. What about that responsibility?" Hurt and pain filled her voice and she hated both.

Teague closed his eyes and exhaled slowly. "It's a two-way street, Bentley. I'm willing to accept what I owe you, but you have to be ready to learn and focus. Until that happens, we're done here. Which means you're on short notice. You can't be running around out there until you can control the ability. It's not safe for you or anyone else." He sent an SOS glance in Vasek's direction.

Vas, to his credit, held up both hands. "You have a valid point, Teague, but it's her call. My guys will get the heads-up and do everything they can to manage the situation." He directed his gaze to Bentley. "Until we know more about how your ability will function, you might want to at least get a handle on the basic methods he wants to teach you."

Ugh. Of course, he'd go diplomatic on her. Not that she blamed him. He'd be in a really tough spot, thanks to her paternal nightmare.

Bentley growled. "Fine." She sent a scathing glance toward Teague. "I'll think about working with you on this, but it'll be on my terms. I'll let you know when I'm ready." Which would not be tonight.

Teague grunted. "That's a start."

She turned to leave. "By the way, I'm in for the night. You can call off the watchdogs. And I don't mean the hounds." She'd be damned if he would have her followed twenty-four seven.

Teague frowned. "I didn't have anyone else out there."

Bentley cocked her head. Interesting. And probably not good.

She hedged a little. "Hmm. I was tailed the moment I left the bar." A creepy feeling entered her brain. "Gave whoever the hell it was a show." She'd figured it would piss Teague off.

Teague's brows furrowed. "You went skinny dipping in Havers Lake, didn't you?"

Damn. Scary how well he knew her. Even without the parental connection.

She shrugged. "Maybe. None of your damned business." She started for the door again.

Teague blocked her path. "It is if you're being followed."

Bentley sidestepped around him. "No, it's not. You're not putting me on a leash. I'm not in the field right now, which you know makes me crazy. If you think you're going to keep me prisoner in the manor, you're dead-ass wrong." She held up a hand when he started to argue. "I won't go out alone anymore. That's all I'm willing to concede."

His mouth thinned to a slash across his face but he gave her a terse nod.

To play nice, she met Vasek's gaze. "Wanna walk me out?"

He fell into step beside her and they exited the room.

Thankfully, he said nothing on the way to her place, giving her time to ponder how much she didn't want to be spending quality time with her dear, old dad.

I love having a character that has to deal with a big reveal, especially when they don't want to deal with the fallout from it.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye