Sunday Snippet: X-Ray Tango

If anyone is headed into a major heat wave this week like I am, stay hydrated! And try to stay cool, especially if your location is as humid as mine is. Humidity is a nightmare.

Had a busy and productive week. Making good progress on two of my projects and sliding in some random finishing bits on a few others.

Started a huge cleanup job in the kitchen. My poor countertops need to be reorganized and cleared of clutter. I got the largest one scrubbed down and mostly organized. Still need to find a new home for a few items.

Also have some mundane tasks to plow through this week. Not sure I'll make it but I can't put it off any longer. My procrastination skills are top notch!

Had a decent viewing week. I ended up making it through my usual slate of shows, which rather makes me happy.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and enjoyed the episode again. The characters in Phyrne's past are always fun.

Caught another episode of Art Detectives and, I have to say, I thoroughly enjoy this show. Looking forward to the next episode.

Watched the season thirteen holiday special of Death in Paradise and enjoyed meeting Neville's mom. Should be fun to watch the last season of Inspector Parker's tenure.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Kind of fun to see him on holiday and solving a murder. I'll admit the resolution came together a little oddly for me but an interesting episode nonetheless.

Caught another episode of Elementary and quite enjoyed Sherlock's revelations about friendship. So fun to watch Marcus chill with Sherlock at the end.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond. Having the Royal Flush gang back proved fun. Also like Terry making a solid choice at the end to stick with Dana.

Enjoyed an episode of Classic Rugrats. The holiday themed episode is one I remember and I really need to add it to my holiday watch list if I do one this year.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from X-Ray Tango, a novella that puts a couple together under fraught circumstances.

Here's the miniblurb:

Kellan Gates and Josh Robertson do not get along, constantly vying for top position in their squadron. But when they're transferred to another ship, Josh is targeted by a former nemesis that uses program X-ray Tango to keep Josh in check, which fires up Kellan—no one is allowed to give Josh a hard way to go except her.

And a sneaky peek…

Aw, fuck.

Josh heaved a sigh. "Not really, but you deserve to know what we're heading into." Where did he start?

Probably the beginning.

Josh glanced around to make sure they didn't have an audience. "The CAG of the Achilles and I go way back. Taylor Bradford is an old nemesis. Let's just say there's some bad blood between us and leave it at that for now." He met her gaze. "I'm not being an ass when I say you'd be wise to stay away from him. Not that you need a warning." Or would appreciate one.

Kellan narrowed her eyes. "You know, that won't be hard to do. If he's who I think he is, I don't like him either." Her lips twisted with distaste.

Josh's eyebrows arched. "Where did you meet him? If you don't mind me asking." Bradford got around but also gravitated toward the higher ranks.

Kellan snorted. "Flight school."

Josh's eyes widened. "You were a year behind us, right? Wonder what brought him back." Didn't seem to fit with Taylor's one-step-ahead plan.

Kellan huffed out a breath. "He came in as a guest lecturer. Very full of himself. And so condescending we all hated him." Her fingers curled into a fist.

Josh gave a slow nod. "Ah. Makes sense. He'd view running a class as his divine right to share how everyone could benefit from his colossal intelligence." Bile rose in his throat just saying the words.

Kellan chuckled. "The only thing he actually showed was his ass. And only for a day. He didn't get invited back the following week." Her lips curved in a smirk.

Josh could literally picture Bradford strutting around the class, spewing all kinds of so-called wisdom but coming off more like a pompous dick. And … if Taylor hadn't gamed the finals, Josh would've been the guest lecturer. No doubt, Taylor got the tap because he'd been top of their flight class. But Josh didn't need to share that information with Kellan.

Why give her ammunition?

Kellan snatched the orders and shook her head. "This is going to suck on multiple levels." Her gaze met his. "Adding your history and hell … even mine … with him to the mix adds to the challenge, right?"

Josh couldn't disagree so he nodded. "Probably."

Kellan sighed and got up, mumbling something about hating change before she headed for the exit.

Josh watched her leave. "This is one time I'm not down with it either."

But at least she didn't give him shit about anything. Maybe they had some common ground they could meet on.

Gotta say this story is coming together in ways I didn't expect. Kellan and Josh are keeping me on my toes.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Wounded Birds

Happy Father's Day to all the dads, mentors, and father figures out there! And if this is a rough day for anyone, please find peace and joy where you can.

Seriously busy week and I didn't feel the greatest. Heading in for an annual physical soon and hope to nail down why I'm kind of down right now. My guess is my sleep schedule is horrible at the moment.

Somewhat good progress on work projects. Friday and Saturday ended up being challenging days because of not feeling well. I'm a little behind on two and hope to make that up in the next couple of days.

Spent a couple of days doing tedious personal life stuff, but I made it through my standard slate of shows this week. I'm considering a new addition to the lineup but haven't made up my mind yet.

Enjoyed an episode of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. The plot's twisty turns are fun and it's nice to see the tentative partnership with Jack and Phryne taking root.

I totally lied when I said I caught the season twelve finale of Death in Paradise. It had one more episode, which I ended up enjoying a lot. I'll be starting thirteen this week.

Caught another episode of Poirot and enjoyed it. This one had some twists but it was fun for Poirot to have a case in his own backyard … or building as the case may be.

Started a new series called the Art Detectives and liked the first episode. The leads have great chemistry and I'm looking forward to the next episode.

Watched an episode of Elementary and enjoyed Sherlock coming to terms with being friends with Alfredo and not just sponsor and sponsee. Joan was really great in this episode also.

Enjoyed another episode of Batman Beyond. It's fun when Terry has to be a big brother and I love how he handles Tim. The big bad was also interesting.

Watched another episode of Classic Rugrats. Both were new-to-me vignettes and I liked them. The one with DeeDee's college class was a lot of fun.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Wounded Birds, a novella that forces a couple into isolation after a big goof on their part.

Here's the miniblurb:

When weeping sickness hits a space carrier hard, pilots Minka Kovak and Channing Santclar are two of the first to go down, which creates a problem since the fleet relies on them to keep the planes in the air. But when the duo gets through the worst of the virus—without killing each other—they end up working from their isolation alcove to shuffle the schedule and fill the flight roster.

And a sneaky peek…

Minka finished the next flight rotation schedule and closed the file.

Her eyes narrowed when she glanced up to find rolling privacy panels being wheeled to surround the iso chamber.

She slid her gaze sideways toward Channing. His head remained bent while he pored over some after-action reports. How did he not notice the commotion going on outside?

Or did he…

Minka got up, planting her hands on her hips. "What the hell is going on?"

His head lifted and he cast a quick scan around the now enclosed space.

Minka arched a brow. "Don't keep me in suspense. What did you do?" No way would Nameth think to give them some actual privacy.

Channing gave her a wide grin. "Me? I didn't do anything more than work a little magic." He got up and held out a hand. "We've got eight hours of downtime." Clasping her hand, he nudged her toward the beds.

Her eyes went wide. "What? How?" She settled on the edge of her mattress.

Channing rolled a shoulder. "Remember when we got the schedule all straightened out?"

She nodded. "Of course. We saved the day." And then some.

He sent her a smug look. "I used that as a bargaining chip to get some privacy and some quiet time." The lights dimmed. "Right on cue." He reached out for her and patted his bed with his free hand. "Come join me."

She couldn't believe he pulled this off. She got to her feet and crawled onto the bed with him. He scooted over and brought his legs up onto the surface.

She turned sideways and snuggled in close to him. "Okay, how did you manage this without me knowing?" They literally lived in each other's pockets.

He smirked. "I used a comm panel and put a request in with the XO. Told him we'd worked hard to solve the flight schedule and didn't deserve to be a public spectacle anymore." His lips curved. "The XO forwarded my comments to Nameth and the doc messaged me. Called me a pain in the ass but figured we'd finally suffered enough."

She laughed. "About damned time." Her fingers worked the buttons of his shirt loose. "This is amazing, and I'm duly impressed." She'd had no idea Channing put anything in motion.

What a surprise!

Minka and Channing got themselves into a mess but they're figuring things out as they go along.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Words Not Necessary

It's been a long week with a lot going on. My dad turned eighty last Sunday and my oldest turned thirty-two. Yep. They have the same birthday. My brothers always give me a bunch a grief over getting my dad a grandson for his birthday.

We had a nice reception for my dad, and I got to reconnect with a lot of people I hadn't seen in a long time. So nice to catch up.

Work projects continue to keep me busy. I'm making good progress but often feel like I'm spinning my wheels because they're big projects that take a lot of back and forth. This isn't a complaint; it's more an observation.

Had a slow viewing week but did manage to get through my main group of shows. The backburner ones didn't make the cut this week.

Started out with Batman Beyond and enjoyed it. I have memories of this one where Terry's secret is exposed and he finally has something of an ally.

Watched another Classic Rugrats and both were new-to-me vignettes. Thoroughly enjoyed the shopping one and the one with the snow was fun also.

Enjoyed another episode of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. As a comfort show, the amazing cast is always ready to help me slide into a happy place. Even if there's a murder to solve.

Caught the season twelve finale of Death in Paradise. Good to see Neville's team work hard to clear him of the professor's death. Nice to see the dangling plot threads tied up also. Looking forward to starting thirteen this week.

Watched another episode of Poirot and rather enjoyed the mystery. A lot gets packed into the hour-long episodes and sometimes feels a little rushed.

Really enjoyed the episode of Elementary with the dual mysteries and some insight into the captain's daughter and how she operates.

Also watched what I think is the first season finale of Return to Paradise. I'm really enjoying this show.

I think I found the new show I'm going to start this week, but I'm not absolutely set. Stay tuned.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Words Not Necessary, a novella that explores how a couple communicates without words and make other wonder how they do it.

Here's the miniblurb:

Sometimes an outside observer can provide a lot of insight on a couple's relationship, even if they'll never understand it. London and Braun are so in tune with each other they rarely speak, yet their communication is evident for anyone to see.

And a sneaky peek…

Special kind of strange definitely described them. But also maybe … a strange kind of special. Because Braun knew things about her she'd never put a voice to.

Like how much she loved the way he nuzzled her throat. She hadn't told him how much the action heightened her awareness.

Especially like now, when his breath fanned against her ear showing how much he wanted her before he tipped her sideways and maneuvered around to get more comfortable.

And the way the rasp of his tongue over her nipple shot heat straight to her core? Never one had she mentioned how hot that made her.

And now … when he drew a pebbled tip between his lips, she squirmed with anticipation and need to have him buried deep.

Or the way he'd press openmouthed kisses down along her torso, each glide of his lips over her skin creating a tingling eagerness the lower he moved.

When his tongue dipped into her navel, the question of whether he'd go further down … or make his way back upward … flashed in her mind before he settled between her thighs and started the journey in reverse.

Up it is…

She met his mouth, welcoming the way it quieted her moan when he entered her with a smooth thrust. Her hands smoothed down his back, cupping his ass. Something else she loved … the feel of muscle and sinew under her fingers. The way they came together proved to be a tactile delight, always starting slow and easy then gaining momentum, building friction until they reached the best part…

And her favorite … the way he grasped her hips when he got close to his climax. When his fingers dug into her flesh, and his breath came in short, static bursts, she let the pleasure spiral and nudge her over the edge into orgasmic bliss.

And he'd fly right after her. One thrust … another … and a gasping shudder when he tipped over. He collapsed to his side, spooning up behind her, his lips ghosting over her shoulder. She turned and he eased onto his back, giving her space to burrow close to his side.

Wrapping an arm around his waist, her head rested on his chest … her favorite pillow … and she drifted off to sleep … sated and content.

All without saying a word.

I'm happy with how this story is coming together. It's fun to balance actual dialog with the unspoken discourse.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Wires Crossed

Had a super busy week between work projects and personal projects and, whew, I'm exhausted. Also, the weather is being contrary with lots of rain and chilly temperatures. I don't think we got above sixty degrees with the exception of Thursday when we topped out at seventy.

I'm still juggling six work projects but two are in a state of simmering on the back burner, which isn't optimal, but it does help manage the load.

Had a slow viewing week and didn't quite make it through my usual round of shows. Too much going on that needed my full attention.

I did end up catching an episode of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. It's one of my favorites with Phyrne showing off her flying skills.

Also watched an episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. A holiday episode that I thoroughly enjoyed. I'm kind of bummed there aren't any new episodes until the next season.

Death in Paradise kind of blew my mind. I knew what would happen and it still caught me a little off guard. I think because Neville acted so out of character. I have a really good idea of who killed the professor, and I hope I prove myself right.

Got another episode of Return to Paradise viewed and I'm really enjoying this show. I'm very on the fence with Glen's engagement to Daisy. I really think things could get very messy.

Finished out the week with another Poirot episode. I kind of pegged who the kidnapper was from the beginning, and I loved the razor-sharp way Poirot called the guy out.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Wires Crossed, a novella that pulls a couple who don't see eye to eye together to work their issues out before someone gets hurt.

Here's the miniblurb:

Vanessa Twill and Justin Hardwick don't always see eye to eye and the tension between them is thick and taut. When a training exercise goes bad, the duo is grounded until they get their act together. Forced to communicate, they work out some issues and realize they didn't have their wires crossed … a saboteur did. Literally.

And a sneaky peek…

Chastised and humbled, Vanessa never wanted to face another stinging rebuke from the CO. But she needed to know what the hell happened? Staying angry obviously wouldn't help.

Justin didn't offer any discussion, but he couldn't be happy with being grounded either. One of them would have to break through the wall of silence they'd erected between them. And waiting wouldn't get them any closer to being back out in the black.

Vanessa ventured a comment first. "Why did you change the plan?" She kept her tone quiet and non-accusing. "I honestly thought you followed orders to a painful level." Which often annoyed her.

Justin stopped a moment. "I didn't change the scenario. And I tried to tell you before the CO grounded us." He raked a hand through his hair. "I mean, think about it. When would I have had the time?" He started forward again. "I thought you altered the game plan." Frustration came through his voice but no heat.

She stopped and grasped his arm. "If you didn't and I didn't. Then…" Her stomach churned with something nasty and bitter.

Justin frowned. "Who did?"

Vanessa gave a nod. "Obviously someone and that's a problem." A big, huge shiny one.

She ducked into a small conference room and dragged Justin in behind her. They didn't need an audience right now. Or eavesdroppers.

Her voice lowered. "Look, we've had our wires crossed in the past … are you sure you didn't decide we should run option C?"

Justin folded his arms over his chest. "I'm sure. You said A. I didn't agree, but I let it slide. Like you said, I follow orders." His eyes narrowed. "No matter how painful the level is."

Yeah, okay. She probably deserved to have her words handed right back to her.

Vanessa sighed. "Well, I didn't like option B so no way would I have changed it—not even to spite you." And definitely not to put their recruits in danger.

Justin lifted his chin. "Which brings us back to who did and how we ended up with such a cluster fuck?"

Yeah, she wanted to get whoever tampered with their scenarios alone for five minutes. But they had to figure out the who and how part first.

Vanessa met his gaze. "How do you wanna go about this? Should we work together?" It would save time, but she wouldn't blame him if he didn't want to be anywhere near her.

His eyebrows arched. "You're asking?" He relaxed his stance and propped a hip against the conference table.

Vanessa nodded. "Well, yeah. This affects both of us. I mean, I want answers now, but that might not happen if we're both poking around on our own … so…" She shrugged. "If we coordinate our efforts…"

Justin finished her thought. "We'll smoke out whoever made the change, and hopefully do it before they can cover their tracks." His head bobbed up and down. "Yeah, we figure it out together." He thrust his hand forward.

Vanessa's lips quirked and she clasped his palm. "Together." She squeezed his fingers then let go. "I have a maintenance shift to get to, but I'll be free later." She hoped he'd have time to get started today.

Justin grunted. "I'll find you. Since I'm free, I'll ask around and put some feelers out." He pushed away from the table and headed for the hatch but paused before leaving. "We'll get to the bottom of this." He held her gaze a long moment then exited the room.

Vanessa had a new appreciation for Justin. Because she believed they absolutely would solve the puzzle of what happened.

Here's to the beginning of a new path forward for Vanessa and Justin. This one is very fun to write.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Win's Maneuver

It's a long weekend in the US for the Memorial Day holiday and also graduation weekend for our local high school. Seems like a great time to have lovely weather, right? It's Ohio so the answer would be probably not. It's cloudy with a chance of rain. But at least the temperature is in the high sixties instead of the low fifties, which is more like March instead of May.

I'm making headway on the multiple work projects. Two have shifted off my plate for the next step in the publishing process and the other six are coming along. I should have at least two more finished up this week. YAY!

Had a pretty solid week of viewing. I did make it through my regular slate of shows and got started on my two new ones. Or, one new one and one that always seems to simmer on the back burner.

Enjoyed another episode in my rewatch of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. The first couple of episodes do such a great job of setting up the dynamic between the characters and I thoroughly enjoy the actors so much.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise and like how awkward things are between Selwyn and his daughter. I also kind of enjoy Katherine being in his face but I also think she kind of oversteps sometimes.

Caught another episode of Poirot and enjoyed it. I often feel like the relationship between Poirot and Japp is shortchanged because we don't really see how that started, but the interactions are fun.

Enjoyed another Brokenwood Mysteries. Kind of weird but awesome the victim is someone we met in an earlier episode. And the mystery took some wild turns, which is always fun.

Watched another episode of Elementary and loved the interactions with Joan and Sherlock. The ice cream touch at the end is perfection.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and it's one I don't really remember much of but also one that I quite enjoyed. There's nothing like a storyline where a character is trapped in a computer and wants to escape to the real world. It's a weird trope that I love.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats. The two vignettes are ones that were new to me, and I liked both. Weird bit with some out of order information as the Finsters were still calling their dog puppy instead of Pepper.

Watched another episode of Return to Paradise and I'm still enjoying this one. I'm very interested in seeing what happens with Mackenzie and her ex-fiancé. There's a lot of good potential to be very messy with this situation.

I got started on a new episode of Peak Practice but didn't make it all the way through. I'll try to finish it up this week.

Also started a new episode of Reacher, but paused because I need to pay attention and couldn't focus like I wanted to. I'll definitely finish this one up this week.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Win's Maneuver, a Star Chasers novella that I'm just getting started.

Here's the miniblurb:

Winston Ashcraft, president of the Star Chasers—a maze running club—doesn't like complications … especially when his best friend drops one at Win's feet. Darcy Abbott has a price on her head and Win has no choice but to help her … because she saved his best friend's life.

And a sneaky peek…

Luce strolled into Win's office. "Got a minute?" He arched his brows.

The question—loaded with lead—didn't suggest he'd wait.

Win grunted. "Sure. What's up?" They still had some tricky shit to work through and might as well start now.

Luce dropped a bomb. "I want you to claim Darcy." He dropped his large frame onto the stool across from the desk and rolled it up to the edge. "She needs help, and I want you to take point, if only as payback for the whole Marnie debacle." He didn't quite snarl the words, but he came damn close.

Fuck. He couldn't really say no. If Marnie made the guys froth at the mouth, Darcy would likely cause a riot. She didn't have the grief status Marnie had when they all thought Luce dead. Nope. Darcy pretty much came free of any kind of baggage. Which meant she should be fair game.

The way his gut clenched at the thought did sit well with him. He didn't want a significant other. Not when he'd just lost the previous one … fake as it had been.

Then again, he owed Luce.

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Win reluctantly agreed. "Fine. But I really don't need this shit right now." Even knowing what the price would be, he couldn't quite accept defeat.

Luce snorted. "What's the problem, man?"

Win made a rude sound. "It's like cockblocking part two. First Marnie staked a claim so the rest of the club would leave her alone. Now this Darcy Abbott is going to be parading around as my woman, so she's got the mantle of protection that entails."

Luce gave him a pointed stare. "And?"

Win flung a hand out. "And that means I can't just grab whoever's free for a romp in bed." Which Luce, the fucker, already knew.

Luce's lips twitched. "You could try to muster up your nonexistent charm and see if Darcy's game for the full Winston Ashcraft treatment."

Win rolled his eyes. "Something tells me she wouldn't be able to handle it … or me." She had fragile … handle with care … written all over her.

Luce leaned forward, placing his palms on Win's desk. "It would be a mistake to sell her short. She survived on that ship for months before she ran into me. The woman's got grit."

Win lifted a shoulder. "She'll need it around here." Time would tell if Darcy had the wherewithal to survive in the Chaser's club.

I think this story is going to be a lot of fun. Win is very grumpy, with good reason, but Darcy is going to surprise him.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Wings Get Clipped

May is flying by at a rapid pace. This week has been intense with burning the candle at both ends for me. This is a good day to take some downtime, which I'm trying to do today.

Work exploded this week with multiple projects dropping into my inbox. I have four nonfiction manuscripts and three fiction manuscripts in various stages of editing. I don't normally have seven different projects going at the same time but, so far, I'm managing them. It'll make for a nice June once they're all turned in.

Had an amazing week of viewing. I got a full round of shows in and caught a couple of extras. Also started a new show that might be sporadically viewed until it's available for streaming.

I started a rewatch of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries this week. I'm waiting on some new episodes of a few other shows to drop and this is such a comfort series for me.

Caught another episode of Brokenwood Mysteries and thoroughly enjoyed it. Very twisty and turny, which is always fun.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm happy to have some Naomi backstory. I'd love to see a bit more of that for the characters.

Started a from the beginning run of Poirot. I've seen quite a few episodes of this show but haven't watched any of them in order. This is another filler series until new episodes start dropping of my current shows.

Watched another episode of Elementary and quite enjoyed it. I'm always interested when weird cases pop up and the cryogenics angle ended up being interesting.

Caught an episode of Batman Beyond and have some vague memories of the first time I watched it. I'm wondering if the Ts are in any way a throwback to Mr. Terrific. I might have to dive down that rabbit hole at some point.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Rugrats. I don't remember either of these vignettes and I liked both.

I finished up an episode of Peak Practice and might start another one this week. This is one of my back burner shows and I'm happy I got to finish watching.

Started a new-to-me series and watched Reacher. Gotta say I loved the first episode. I did a bit of dive into write-ups of future seasons, and I think I'll stick with this one.

Also got a minimarathon of Return to Paradise in over the weekend. I'm looking forward to streaming this one when it's available in the US. Really enjoyed the first three episodes and I'm excited to see the rest.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Wings Get Clipped, a novella that brings a couple together when they get caught up in a vendetta between their superior officers.

Here's the miniblurb:

In the middle of a war, a long-standing personal vendetta comes to light against Schuler Grace and Gren Gambolina's commanding officer and it puts the two soldiers directly in the line of fire. Fighting the enemy within, while doing battle with their adversaries on the warfront, Schuler and Gren form an unbreakable bond to see them through their biggest challenge.

And a sneaky peek…

Schuler skidded to a stop next to Gren, blinking in confusion. What the hell? He's not getting updates and he's playing with wood and glue?

Wharton didn't even glance up from working on the model ship. "What's the problem here?" He added a dab of glue to a sail and affixed it to the mast.

Gren and Schuler started a verbal back and forth, finishing each other's sentences.

"Sir, you know the admiral has it in for you. Transferring us—"

"Only serves to isolate you even more. He knows we'd have your back—"

"No matter what. Why are you doing this without a fight?"

He continued working, mulling their concern. "Maybe I think you'll be better at covering my six while firmly ensconced in enemy camp." Another dab of glue, another piece added.

He had a point. A good one. But…

Gren threw a hand out. "Does anyone else not see how we're talking about members of our own fleet as the enemy?"

Schuler snorted. "So? They're our foes. They don't play by the same rules. The fact they're gunning for us sort of proves that, yeah?"

Wharton paused. "Not everyone on that ship is against us. You'll find allies." He glanced up from his tedious work. "But choose them wisely. Lotta people like to play both sides." His gruff voice held a wealth of experience.

Did he make a mistake early in his career? Trust the wrong person? That would explain one hell of a lot.

Gren tried to dig a little deeper. "Commander, maybe if we knew what we're up against, we'd have better results."

Wharton set the glue and model piece aside then briskly rubbed his hands together. "What don't you know, Lieutenant? My two top pilots and squadron leaders have been reassigned to the admiral's flagship." He got up, grabbed a towel, and wiped any remaining glue residue from his hands. "You're the new blood on deck, meaning you have to earn respect and fight for a place to call yours." He pinned both with his piercing stare. "You'll have your hands full, which you're used to but they don't know that." An eyebrow raised, a silent question of whether he needed to go on.

Schuler gave a terse nod. "And that gives us the opportunity to wait, watch, and win some people over." An exercise in extreme patience.

Wharton's lips curved. "Sounds like you have everything you need." He glanced toward the hatch. "You're dismissed."

With little choice, Schuler turned on her heel and started toward the exit.

Gren followed but delivered a parting shot before leaving. "Sir … I can't shake the feeling something dark is coming. I don't like it."

Wharton didn't pull his punches. "Something dark isn't coming, Lieutenant. It's already here."

Well, hell.  

I'm happy with how this story is coming together. I love writing a good vendetta, especially when one of the character's is unhinged.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Why We Fight

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms, mentors, and mother figures out there! Enjoy the day, and if it's a hard day to celebrate, take care of you.

Another wildly busy work week but a lot of projects moved ahead and some were completed. One contrary work thing took an unexpected turn and I'll be trying to figure that one out later today.

Had a decent week of viewing despite the busy schedule. I made it through a full round of my shows, minus one—Dark Winds—because it's not on the streaming service I have anymore. I think it's on another one, but I've been too busy to track it down.

Started the week off with Brokenwood Mysteries. This one ended up being a lot of fun with a couple of interesting secrets being revealed. Truly hope to see more of Trudy and Ray's mom.

Watched another episode of Death in Paradise and enjoyed the mystery. Really not sure what Neville's DI friend is doing on the island but have a feeling it's not going to mean anything good.

Loved the Beyond Paradise holiday special for this past Christmas. I'm looking forward to diving into the rest of the season when it's available in the US.

Enjoyed another episode of Elementary. Interesting to get some backstory of Sherlock's time under the influence. Also intriguing that he stayed somewhat in the background. I like that kind of character progress.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and didn't really have any recollection about this one. I did enjoy seeing Terry use his Batman moves while out of the costume.

Caught another episode of Classic Rugrats and enjoyed both vignettes. I didn't remember either of them so more new-to-me stuff.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Why We Fight, a novella that puts a spin on the enemies-to-lovers trope.

Here's the miniblurb:

Emmett Barley, an embedded investigative reporter, pushes Pier Luphen, the squadron leader, for honest answers about the war they're fighting. She tries to take the status quo, but Emmett won't have it. He's heard the military party line his entire life and he wants the truth or nothing. He also wants Pier, but she's not willing to compromise her mission regardless of how she feels about Emmett.

And a sneaky peek…

After a full week with the unit, Emmett had some ideas for stories. "Right. Filling half a notebook is more than a few…" Of course, some of his notes could be considered fiction about a certain liaison officer.

When a knock sounded at his door, he tucked the booklet into his satchel.

He blinked in surprise to find Pier outside with two dinner trays. "Um, hi." Stepping back, he motioned for her to enter.

She flashed a quick smile. "Thought I'd return the favor and bring supper." Handing one of the entrees over, she arched her brows. "Unless you had other plans or would rather eat alone."

He shook his head. "I'd like company. Thanks for this." He cleared space on the small desk and pulled up an extra chair.

Pier took a seat and removed the cover from her plate. "I didn't interrupt anything, did I?" Her gaze landed on his open satchel.

Emmett's lips curved. "Not really. I was going through my preliminary notes, trying to settle on a topic for my first report." The aroma of baked steak wafted from his tray. "Ah … this brings back memories of joining my dad for meals at the base mess hall whenever my mom had other plans.

Pier chuckled. "It's probably the one meal every branch of the armed forces makes just a little bit differently, but they can't possibly screw up." She nodded toward his notebook. "What are some of your ideas for stories?"

He took a bite of food, trying to decide which one to discuss first. "I'd like to do a series about how the joint forces keep track of everything. You know, receiving supplies, filling the orders, then scheduling the transports to get goods delivered." The sheer magnitude of allotments, from food, clothing, and weapons to hospital supplies and aid station equipment, could be mind-boggling.

And this hub handled more than half of the requisitions. Not to mention the protection of the base, personnel, and transport units en route to the various substations and ships they were supplying.

Pier's brows furrowed. "Not exactly scintillating stuff." She stuffed a forkful of green beans into her mouth.

Emmett shrugged. "Maybe it's not guts and guns, but if something happens here to halt getting the supplies out, the ripple effect could be catastrophic." Which made for an interesting story with a human-interest angle.

Pier cocked her head to one side. "I'm a little pissed I have to revise my opinion on reporters because of you. You're definitely not like the jackass glory-seeking hound we just got rid of."

Emmett huffed out a breath. "Um, thanks. I think." He jabbed at her a little. "Pretty sure it wouldn't take much to improve your low opinion of reporters though."

She laughed. "Okay, true. But seriously, you already got points for not bringing a wardrobe of flashy clothes to the middle of a warzone."

Emmett rolled his eyes. "When the reporter puts themselves at the center of the story, they're no longer reporting. They're playacting on a stage." His dad and brothers would flip if Emmett ever dreamed of doing something so stupid.

Pier gave a slow nod. "Very aptly put."

They dug back into their dinner and ate in companionable silence.

Once they finished, he cleared away the dishes and set them by the door. "Do you have to report for duty or are you free for a while?" He hoped she'd stick around.

Pier shook her head. "I'm off for the night." She took a spot on the small two-seater couch.

Emmett retrieved a bottle from his footlocker. "Would you care for some?" He held up a glass.

Pier shrugged. "Sure. I don't report until the afternoon watch." She kicked her feet out and crossed them at the ankles.

He placed a tumbler on the camp stool to her left, and he settled next to her. "I heard some rumblings about the action moving closer. Will that affect your incoming or outgoing shipments?" He mainly wondered if the closer proximity would throw a cog in a well-oiled machine.

Pier studied him for a long moment. "Can I request to be off the record?"

He narrowed his eyes. "You still don't trust me?" So much for making headway.

She tsked. "It's not that. It's because I trust you that I'm asking for it to be off the record." She waited a beat. "What I'm going to share is classified."

Well, hell … he didn't see that one coming. "Consider yourself off the record."

She leaned in and pitched her voice low. "The shipments won't be affected. Part of what we do on our transport runs is gather intel and fortify our perimeters. We don't deviate from our schedule for that reason." She met and held his gaze, saying the unspoken part with her eyes.

They weren't just a supply hub. They ran covert ops from this location.

He exhaled slowly. "Shit." Amazed that she did trust him, he let the truth sink into him. "Okay. No wonder you wanted to be off the record. I don't blame you. That's a powder keg of information." And he'd have to sit on it for the time being.

She made a bit of a promise. "It is, and if this ends up in some sound byte I'll come for you. Doesn't matter where you are or who your family is." She picked up her drink and drained the glass. "Just saying." Putting the tumbler back on the stool, she held his gaze again.

He read a lot in her eyes. She put herself on the hot seat. He could break this story and lay open the true purpose of this facility for the entire planet to see. But he understood the importance of the mission too much to do anything underhanded like that. And he respected her and the trust she'd placed in him to not violate his promise.

Taking a chance, he cupped her face. "I do not break confidences." His thumbs stroked her cheeks. "Or go back on my word." Leaning in, he tested the bond further by brushing his lips over hers.

He didn't mean for the kiss to spiral out of control, but she opened her mouth, and he slipped his tongue past her teeth. She made a low moan and fisted her hand in his shirt. Okay, he hadn't imagined the crackle of attraction between them.

He didn't know who came up for air first, but he dragged oxygen into his lungs and leaned in again.

She backed away and held up a hand. "Sorry. That should not have happened." She got up and paced back and forth.

He narrowed his eyes. "I'm not sorry it did."

She worried on her lower lip. "I'm not either. I'll admit my curiosity got the better of me." She met his gaze. "But this isn't a good idea. I'm responsible for your safety and getting involved more than we already are can muddy things up." A frustrated sigh escaped her lips.

He pushed back a little. "So, it's not one-sided? There's something here between us." He got to his feet and motioned between them.

She gave a jerky nod. "There could be … if you weren't you and I wasn't me."

He didn't like the answer, but he understood. "I can accept that. But, for the record, if you weren't who you are and I wasn't who I am … we'd be great together in—"

She held up a hand again. "Don't. Don't say it." She scooted past him, pushed the door open, and angled her head around. "Also, for the record? I'm not disagreeing." She ducked out before he could formulate a response.

Which … all things considered … gave him more fictional ideas to imagine.

Very happy with how this scene came together. These characters are a lot of fun to write.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye