Sunday Snippet: Dodging Reality

Yeesh. So far, May has been a very chilly month. Our high yesterday hit forty-five degrees. Brrr. I'm going to try really hard to remember this when I'm crying because it's eighty-five in October. Just saying.

I didn't quite get everything tracked down that I wanted to last week so I'm carrying it over to this week. I think I'm going to make May my month to get stuff done. And, I'll be honest, it'll probably spill over into June. Time moves faster than I like sometimes.

Pretty good work week all things considered. I closed out a project and came close to finishing the final steps two others. Finished up a copy edit on a long manuscript and started a proofread on another. I have a continuation of another project on the books for this week also. I love to be busy.

Not a bad viewing week. I got through my usual list of shows, which makes me happy. I didn't get to watch any of my back burner shows or a concert, but maybe this week.

Started out with the season-twelve premier of the Brokenwood Mysteries. Thoroughly enjoyed the episode. Love having the cast of recurring characters making appearances.

Watched the final behind the scenes bonus of Foyle's War and enjoyed seeing the effort that went into creating the battle scene. Should be starting the final season this week.

Caught the opening episode of the next Poirot season. Kind of fun to see how little Poirot enjoyed retirement. And a really good mystery also.

Finished up the two-part Silent Witness premier. A very twisty story with lots of layers. I think I'm going to like having the team work at the new Bowman Center.

Elementary ended up being really interesting. I'm enjoying the Shinwell training and the case ended up being way complicated than I thought it would be.

Watched the second episode of Young Justice and I enjoyed seeing the team come together. Looking forward to more.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and, whoo boy. Gotta say Mariner got shafted. Should be fun and interesting to see how things play out over the rest of the season.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Dodging Reality, a novella that explores how a couple get together while doing their best to dodge an embedded reporter on the front lines.

Here's the miniblurb:

Take a reality show set on the front lines in space, add a brash reporter who wants the down and dirty secrets of the crew—and will stop at nothing to get them—and mix it up with a couple fighting their attraction while protecting their pilots from the ratings hound. Stir in a little backstabbing from the camera man and the outcome is Dodging Reality.

And a sneaky peek…

Caro did indeed hit the gym. She had some major aggression to work through. Halfway through her set the hatch clanged open, and the cloying scent of Monique the Menace's perfume overpowered Caro's sense of smell.

"Son of a cursed mongrel." The dumbbells crashed against each other on the way to the deck.

The bitch in heels made her entrance. "Why, Captain, you don't seem happy to see me."

"Maybe because I smelled you first. Do you bathe in that shit?"

Monique's claws came out. "Do you bathe at all?"

Caro shrugged. "Check your footage. Pretty sure you've got the proof that I do."

Monique couldn't argue with truth.

She lifted a shoulder and smirked. "Major Albright suggested I might find you here." She showed teeth with her smile. "Thought you might be a good person to start with for this week's one-on-ones."

Caro snorted. "Really? Better get your info straight, Ms. Presley." Caro finished up a rep with the free weights. "I know for a fact he told you to save me for last. Or at least put me in the slot before him." She leveled her gaze on the woman. "Care to tell me why you're not sticking to your end of the agreement?"

"Because when I asked him, he informed me you'd be here." Monique tittered. "Apparently he's got a full plate trying to deal with the lieutenant's little drug situation."

Caro shook her head. "Lady, you don't want to discuss that topic with me. When people go after my pilots, my gut reaction is to punch them in the face." She levelled her gaze on the other woman. "Trust me … neither of us want that." Okay, Caro wanted it but had promised to behave herself.

Monique arched a brow. "So hostile, Captain." She wandered about the small gym, poking around the machines. "You seem to have some aggression issues. How ever do you manage to get through the day?"

Caro shot her a look. "Quiet time in the gym helps. You're cutting into that." And she wanted to kill Vic for mentioning where she'd be.

Monique tried to appear apologetic. "Yes. It appears so." She tottered back toward Caro. "But please, indulge me for one little question." She held up a hand. "It's not about your pilot."

The woman's heels made deep pockmarks on the exercise mat and Caro wanted to be rid of her as soon as possible. Answering one stupid question could do the trick. Maybe.

She rolled her eyes. "What do you want to know?" Reaching down, she picked up the dumbbells and wrapped her hands around them.

If nothing else, they'd make great weapons.

Monique eyed the weights and took a small step back. "Just a quick answer to a simple query." Her gaze stayed on the heavy objects.

Caro sighed. "Sure, whatever." She hefted the dumbbells and placed them back on the stand. "Make it fast." Snagging a towel, she mopped the sweat off her face. "I'm between reps here."

Monique motioned the crew in, and they quickly had things rolling.

She pasted on her interview face. "Captain Williams, it's been bandied about by some of the other pilots that you and Major Albright have quite a close relationship. What's your response to that?" She held the microphone close to Caro.

Caro's jaw dropped. "My response? I'm his deputy CAG, of course we work closely together." What the hell?

Monique shook her head. "No. You misunderstand. It's not that you work closely, it's that you and he … are very, very close." She went in for the kill. "Inappropriately so." Her eyebrows waggled.

The woman wanted a certain response, and Caro wouldn't give it to her.

Tilting her head to the side, Caro pretended to ponder her answer. "My response to that would then be … it's bullshit. Major Albright and I do not have a relationship outside of the work we do." Other than a solid friendship.

Monique snorted. "Come on, Captain. The man is gorgeous. You're telling me you've never noticed?" Her tone turned snide.

Caro narrowed her eyes. "I'm telling you it doesn't matter how good his looks might be. He does the job and so do I." Usually under intense conflict.

Monique scoffed. "And you've never wanted or wished to push that further? See what all that prime flesh feels like, up close and personal?" She gave a delicate shudder.

Caro snapped back. "You know, even if I did, we have a term in the military called discipline. There's also one called regulation." She paused for a moment. "We have the definitions drilled into us for a reason." Even if there were ways around said reason.

Monique snorted. "And you've never been tempted to throw either out the airlock and just get down and dirty with the major?"

Caro blinked. "How could I be? We've got the enemy breathing down our neck and a film crew shoved up our ass. When would I have the time?" And why would she admit anything to Monique the Menace?

Monique let out a low whistle. "For him … I'd be very tempted to make the time." She made a purring sound.

Caro bit back a snarl. "Guess that's what separates the strong from the weak-willed." She turned toward the weight stand and grabbed the next size up. "Your five minutes are up." Caro started arm curls. "Unless you want to bore your audience with my workout routine, you might wanna head back out and irritate someone else." And take the hint I'm done playing nice.

Presley made a cut sign to her crew and they stopped filming.

She waited for them to start packing up then gave Caro a slow once-over with her gaze. "You might deny there's an attraction between you and the major, but anyone can see it."

Caro didn't take the bait and continued her routine. "Big difference between attraction and action. And there's no joy on that, regardless of what anyone thinks." She paused her reps. "There's no story here, Ms. Presley."

Monique gave Caro a calculating look. "No, I guess not. But it does clear one thing up for me in a big way."

Caro arched her brows. "Yeah, what's that?" As if she really cared.

Monique's mouth curved. "Major Albright is fair game." She pirouetted. "And I'm on the hunt."

Caro feigned nonchalance she didn't feel and snorted. "You're a very scary woman." She reached for the dumbbells again. "Now, if you don’t mind … I've still got some aggression to work out." And maybe a picture to find for the heavy bag.

Monique ran her gaze up and down Caro. "Yes, it appears so. I'll leave you to work on that attitude adjustment then." She waved to the crew, indicating they could exit. "Maybe I'll track down the delicious major."

Caro didn't react. Couldn't. Exactly what Ms. Perfume Overload wanted.

Instead, she huffed out a laugh. "Yeah. Good luck with that." She waited for the catty reporter and her camera man to exit then put the dumbbells away.

She headed across the gym and slammed the heavy bag with a hard one-two punch.

Find the delicious major. Geez. Who talked like that?

Ripping off the gloves, she tossed them in the bin and grabbed her towel. A nasty mood settled around her. And it involved more than having a nosy reporter on board. Monique's interest in Vic shouldn't irritate Caro, but it did.

Enough that she couldn't finish the workout. Too keyed up.  She'd hit the showers instead.

Longer than usual glimpse but this scene came together in a way I didn't expect and made me happy.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Differences Settled

Another bonkers week of fighting a cold and lack of sleep while trying to keep a lot of plates spinning. I have another week of tracking some things down that I really don't want to put off any longer and, honestly, I always forget how much time it takes to this stuff sometimes. I'd love an extra four hours in a day so I could stay caught up.

The weather is doing its usual back and forth thing, plus we're at that stage of spring where it's full-on construction season. I have to laugh because some of the detours have detours. It's bonkers.

Really good work week. I've got several projects in flux at the moment and if the timing goes well (spoiler alert: it rarely does), I'll move two off my plate and add two more. I did put a final checkmark on one of my developmental editing projects. I had a lot of fun working on that one.

Had a pretty solid viewing week. I made it through my usual list of shows and kind of added an extra one because one of my streamers is being a pain and wanting an upgrade for immediate access to new seasons. I'm not okay with paying more so I'll play the waiting game.

Finished up the fifth season of My Life Is Murder and I'm very happy with where all the characters are. I love Madison's growth and Will choosing to stay on the straight and narrow makes me smile. This group would be so much fun to hang out with.

Caught another behind the scenes bit with Foyle's War. I'm always interested in how they pull things together and this one had several segments about makeup, wardrobe, and sets. I think I have one more before the next season.

Watched another episode of Poirot and finished up the sixth season. From what I remember, there's a five-year break before the beginning of the next one. Stay tuned to see if I'm right.

Started the new season of Death in Paradise and thoroughly enjoyed the opening salvo. The commissioner is back. Darlene is gone and will be missed. A new sergeant is in the mix. Seb is still Seb. And DI Wilson has a clue that his half-brother is a terrible, no-good, awful person. Catherine and Naomi are the glue that holds everything together.

Elementary had another terrific episode. I really like where all the characters are right now, and I love Sherlock kind of going out on a limb for Shinwell. Looking forward to seeing more on this plot point.

Started a new to me series with Young Justice. I've seen a few of the episodes, but I've never seen how the series kicked off. So far, I'm enjoying the ride.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and quite enjoyed the adventure. Always lovely to see special guest stars and this week we had George Takei. Such a fun episode.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Differences Settled, a novella that puts a duo undercover and they end up becoming a couple.

Here's the miniblurb:

Regan Tiedt and Finn O'Kellen are transferred to a new ship under difficult circumstances and find they have to settle quite a few differences with their new crew mates … and their commanding officer.

And a sneaky peek…

Finn turned and planted his feet on the deck. "What's this all about, Ewan?" He'd purposefully taken the lead to throw the man off balance.

Taylor narrowed his gaze and glanced between Regan and Finn, noting the swap in roles. Regan rolled her shoulders and leaned against the bulkhead. A sure indication she had no objection to Finn asking the questions.

Ewan folded his arms over his chest. "I want to know what you two are really doing on this ship." He stared both officers down.

A tense moment followed.

He and Regan hadn't had a chance to discuss how they'd respond if confronted. Finn's gut said Taylor would land on the side of right, but Finn wouldn't do anything to jeopardize Regan's position with Craig or put Regan in danger. He slid a quick side-eye her way. Regan nodded, giving Finn what he needed to proceed.

Finn shrugged. "We were sent in to find out how serious Craig's abuse of her command is." He left it there, giving Regan an opportunity to add more if she wanted to.

She pushed away from the bulkhead, moving to stand by Finn's side. "We've got a good start but nothing solid." She wouldn't provide details until Ewan laid his card on the table.

Taylor gave a slow nod then reached into a hollowed-out cubby in the side of a locker and withdrew a thick file. "I've got exactly what you need." He opened the battered folder. "Been waiting a long time to turn this over to someone." He pulled out a report then handed it to Finn. "When our XO went missing, Craig listed him as UA." Taylor's face took on grim lines. "But he's not absent, unauthorized or anything else. He won't be coming back, or for that matter, found." He turned the page over and tapped a photo. "Craig sent him out an airlock."

Regan glanced at Finn, her eyes wide with disbelief. Finn let out a low whistle. Did they really have cold, hard proof of murder and a cover-up?

Regan gave Taylor her full attention. "Where did you get this?" She spoke quietly even though no one else could hear them from outside the locker.

Taylor lifted his chin. "I took the picture." His lips twisted in a wry smile. "There was something a little off when Craig escorted Batton to the launch bay." One shoulder lifted. "I trained for a while in military intelligence so I'm naturally suspicious."

Finn scooped the report and picture into the file and tucked it under his arm. "Needless to say, you just gave us everything we need to take back to the flagship." He met the other man's gaze. "You'll be in the clear and protected." He slid a glance toward Regan.

She'd retrieved the secure comm device and started a message to Admiral Grant, but she looked up at Taylor. "In other words, no blowback." She finished typing the encrypted communication then waited on a response.

Taylor snorted. "I don't care if there's blowback. It's gonna be a bloodbath no matter what happens." He shook his head. "If there's a court martial and I need to appear, I'll be there."

Finn grunted. "Until then, no one knows where this came from." He tapped the file.

The comm unit chimed and Regan read the screen. "Grant's on his way." She nodded toward the hatch. "You'd better find somewhere else to be."

Taylor huffed out a breath. "Right. I'll leave you to it then." He crossed the deck but turned back. "I have a feeling about you two." He didn't say more before he undogged the door and slipped out into the corridor.

Finn met Regan's gaze. "Gotta say, I didn't see this coming." He poked his head outside and made sure they could leave without being seen.

Regan moved to his side. "And from fucking Taylor. For once, his timing is perfect." She chuckled and stepped outside.

Finn's lips twitched, and he followed her out.

But he quickly sobered. Their time on the Wellingstone would end, and he had no idea where that left them or their current intimate status. How would they navigate their relationship when they returned to the Holyoke?

I'm excited about this one. I love a game of cat and mouse and seeing how it pays off.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Day in the Life

What a wild week. We're back to almost winter temperatures with freeze warnings this weekend and the first part of the week. My cold is sorta kinda over, but the crazy weather probably won't help.

Had a pretty decent work week. I'm in flux on a number of projects but the work is moving steadily along. I'm happy to stay busy.

Pretty good viewing week also. I finished up a rewatch and have to pick a new show to watch on one of my streamers … and I have no idea what I want to choose.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and it was so fun to see a regular in one of the shows I watch do a guest turn in this episode. Can't wait to watch the finale this week.

Caught another behind the scenes episode of Foyle's War and enjoyed it. I have one or two more before starting the next season of the show.

Watched another episode of Poirot and loved the mystery. Hastings completely falling for the girl ended up being very interesting along with Poirot kind of lending a helping hand. Very cool.

Started the new season of Silent Witness. Jack's new look is … okay? Enjoy them being in a new city, and I'm liking the vibe of the characters.

Elementary, as usual, didn't disappoint. Such an interesting case and having Sherlock go out on a limb for Shinwell was rather cool.

Finished up my Batman Beyond rewatch and, honestly, the show holds up. Not sure what I'll pick next, but it might be DC universe adjacent.

Watched another Star Trek: Lower Decks. Kind of fun to have a one-off character come back and not end up being an actual hero. I like the risky maneuver there.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from A Day in the Life, which is a companion piece to Shyler: Finding Home.

Here's the miniblurb:

Alphie is a kick ass droid who assists Inspector Shyler Lumen when she arrives on Furlough 99. He's also not afraid to offer unwarranted advice.

And a sneaky peek…

Alphie searched his database for news on Baj Dogo. "Well … that's an interesting end to the saga." Mr. Mogul not only put the fix in on a deal … he also enriched the Guild.

Alphie snorted. "Wonder if Inspector Sweetie handled that with her usual good grace?"

Somehow, Alphie doubted she did.

But … he didn't find a notification of the Furlough investor's death, so she must have come around to his way of thinking.

An incoming ping altered Alphie to a transmission from the hangar deck.

Rolling his eyes inward, he put himself in standby mode to answer the call.

Shyler's face appeared on his internal monitor.

Alphie gave a surprised chortle. "Inspector Sweetie! I didn't expect to see you again." His circuits buzzed at doing so.

Shyler's lips quirked. "If you're up to date, you know I'll be disembarking soon." She shivered a little. "I'm waiting on this…" She glanced around. "Very well-appointed machine to launch and, well, I'm not really a fan of space travel."

Alphie wisely didn't laugh. "Aw, you might change your mind with the upgraded accommodations." He pulled up a schematic of Grey's ship and couldn't help but be impressed.

Shyler snorted. "I doubt it. But you never know." She leaned forward a little. "Look, I pinged you because I have to say thanks. You were instrumental in helping me out and I appreciate it." She huffed out a laugh. "I realize that might sound strange. But you read me and gave me exactly what I needed. Droid or not, that's a skill a lot of humans don't have." She lifted her chin. "So, thank you. If I'm ever back on Furlough, I hope you'll greet me with the same persona." Leaning back, she gave him a wave then cut the transmission.

Alphie blinked and brought himself back online. His circuits zinged with the compliment, and he looked forward to having her back on station. And he didn't need kickass computing skills to know she'd be back. Not with the way she and Mr. Galactic Mogul looked at each other.

All in all, Alphie perked up and decided to give everyone who needed help a little extra boost. A job well done gave him a satisfactory feeling and if he earned more kudos … droids might just have to be elevated on the social chain.

I'm hoping to polish this up and get it ready to release as a free read for the Furlough 99 series.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Dance with Destiny

Bleh. I've been fighting a yucky cold all week and I'm feeling a little better but not quite 100 percent. I'd be happy if the coughing could be a wee bit less.

Weather has been steadily warming up. We've dipped back down a couple of times but thankfully it's been gradual without the wild forty-degree swings in twenty-four hours. Been getting a lot of rain, which is causing high water and some flooding. Combine that with ongoing construction and the onset of tree-trimming and getting anywhere is something of a challenge. It pays to leave early.

Another busy work week. Finished up another proofread, continued work on one, and started an assessment read through. Also finished up a read through on another project that keeps lingering in the shadows. Started a new proofread that's a lot of fun so far.

Had a decent viewing week even though I slept a lot because of the yuck. I made it all the way through my usual slate of shows and added an addition to the lineup.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery along with getting more Harry backstory. I think the next two episodes are a two-parter that makes the finale. Can't wait to watch.

Watched the first behind the scenes for Foyle's War. Kind of enjoyed seeing the process of how they do what they do to film the period specific series.

Finished up the first season of Return to Paradise. I have no idea when season two will be available on the streaming platform, but I'll look forward to it.

Caught another episode of Poirot and completely enjoyed poor Japp trying to manage on his own then having a harder time after accepting Poirot's invitation to stay with him. Fun to see Miss Lemon's sister.

Elementary ended up being very entertaining. The twisty start proved interesting and Joan's advice to Sherlock turned out to be great. I love where their relationship is at this point.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond and had completely forgotten about this one. I think I have one more left before I'll need to find a new series to watch or rewatch.

Also caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and quite enjoyed learning about Tendi's pirate past. Always fun to see characters from other Trek shows pop up in the episodes and Deep Space Nine counts as a character. Just saying.

I continued to use my Kanopy tickets to watch Fleetwood Mac: The Dance. This was such a great concert film, with quite a few surprises. Glad I got to watch.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Dance with Destiny, a follow-up to An Answer to Fate.

Here's the miniblurb:

A prophecy discovered leads to a dance with destiny. Quillan and Jeb have to find their way back to each other and might just tempt fate to do it.

And a sneaky peek…

Quillan rapped on the hatch outside the elder Paladino's quarters. Her stomach rolled a little, because she didn't quite know how to deliver the good news to Jeb's dad.

The large metal door opened wide and Jonah greeted her. "Quillan. It's good to see you." He stepped back, indicated she should enter.

She crossed the threshold and didn't mince words. "Sir, I have something to say. It’s important and you need to sit down." The words rushed from her mouth in one breath.

Jonah Paldino gave her a very long considering look but turned and sank down onto the long sofa secured to the deck in his quarters.

Quillan paced back and forth for a moment, then opted to settle next to him.

She faced Jonah, taking his hand. "Jeb's bond is his word, right?" Starting small seemed like a good choice.

Jonah hissed out a startled gasp. "I haven't heard that phrase in years." He narrowed his eyes. "Why am I hearing it now?"

Quillan exhaled and drew in a calming breath. "Sir, you might not believe this, but I have a story to tell you."

Jonah didn't speak, but he lifted his chin, showing his willingness to listen.

Quillan started weaving the tale. "A long time ago, when Jeb was what? Ten or so? You stitched up a jagged gash along his hairline." She paused a moment. "He spent the night on the base while you took Dinah to Holly Brook." Pausing again, she tried to gauge Jonah's reaction.

Wariness entered his gaze, but he stayed silent.

Quillan took that as a sign to continue. "When you arrived on base, you woke Jeb up and explained Dinah wouldn't be going with you to Bannock."

Jonah narrowed his eyes. "That's a matter of military record, Quillan. And old history." He grunted. "What's the important part about this?"

Quillan pressed on. "I'm getting to it, Sir." She held his gaze. "Dinah had one request. She didn't want anyone to know the true reason she wouldn't be traveling with you. And that reason is the fact she inflicted the injury on Jeb that you stitched up—" She broke off because Jonah made a garbled choking sound, but she rushed to get the truth all out. "Her only request was that you and Jeb keep that secret and he gave his bond that he would. And he did … until now." Or at least until thirty minutes ago.

Jonah blinked and shook his head. "What are saying here? How can you possibly know—" He stopped speaking then pinned her with a hard look. "Jeb wouldn't … he couldn't … he would not break his bond, unless…" His voice trailed off.

Quillan nodded. "Unless he needed you to believe what I'm going to say next." She took both of Jonah's hands in hers. "Jeb didn't die. When Ashford left, he took Jeb with him and delivered him to a base on a planet manned by cyborg forces."

Jonah's shoulders slumped and relief entered his gaze. "He's alive? You're certain?" Wonder filled his voice.

Quillan's head bobbed up and down. "Yes. And there's more you should know."

Jonah settled back. "I'm listening. Give me everything you know."

Quill filled the old man in, leaving nothing out. She talked about how Jeb had access to ancient texts and books and already had a loose plan to use those to his advantage. She revealed how the hybot offered assistance. She even told him about being a telepath. And she warned him about Ashford getting ready to possibly return to the base. Obviously crushed by his former friend's betrayal, the old man mentioned being very good at bluffing.

He squeezed her hands. "And for Jeb, I'll be more than good … until I no longer need to be." His voice dropped to a snarl. "Then Ty is mine."

Quillan didn't argue. As much as she'd like to put Ashford into an air lock and release him out into space, she figured thirty years of being played by a supposed friend gave Jonah the right to mete out whatever punishment he deemed necessary.

Jonah leaned back against the cushions. "Keep me in the loop with private briefings. Right now, you and I are the only people who need to know Jeb's alive."

Quillan hedged a little. "I can do that, but it might start to look weird." She didn't have a lot of reasons to chat with the base commanding officer.

Jonah considered for a moment. "How about a weekly dinner? Or however often we need it?" He shrugged. "Sharing our grief and love for Jeb won't draw attention. At least not much." Humor filled his eyes.

Quillan nodded slowly. "Yeah, that could work. There'll be scuttlebutt no matter what, but Jeb being the link can't really be questioned." Her heart danced in her chest at his show of wit.

With a workable solution for exchanging information, Quillan exited her CO's quarters, her step lighter than it had been in ages. The old man believed her. And she literally watched life take hold of him again with purpose.

Now, she only had to wait on another visit from Jeb.

I love where this story is going. Quillan and Jeb are finding their groove … again.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Damn the Torpedo Flu

Happy Easter to those who celebrate. Happy regular Sunday to those who don't. After three days of lovely temperatures, we're back to mid-forties and chilly. I'll take the cooler weather because the warm-up seemed to bring the ticks out. Pulled three of them off my spouse yesterday. That's usually a May through October problem.

Got to enjoy a wonderful Friday with my daughter at an art walk. She's a project manager for a county arts council and knows many of the artists. So much fun!

Had a busy work week. Finished up a copy edit and proofread for one of the publishers I edit for. Also finished a proofread for a memoir. Continued work on two other proofreads. I have a developmental edit to start this week and hopefully another copy edit.

Ended up with an okay viewing week. I got through most of the shows I watch. I ended up skipping two because I didn't feel well and couldn't concentrate on more than one thing at a time. I did get some cleaning and decluttering done when I needed a break from work projects.

Started off with My Life Is Murder and quite enjoyed the mystery. I love Alexa and Madison's friendship, especially when Madison pushes Alexa out of her comfort zone.

Caught another Foyle's War and ended the eighth season. Loved Sam's good news and kind of felt sorry for Miss Pierce. There are several behind the scenes episodes that I hope to watch this week.

Watched another Return to Paradise and I'm almost finished with the first season. Not sure when the second will be available to me, but I'll look forward to it.

Also enjoyed another episode of Poirot. A holiday episode with a truly distasteful antagonist that thankfully didn't last long. I loved Poirot coming to Japp's rescue once the singing started. If you know, you know.

Elementary ended up being very good. I'm kind of interested to see where Joan's story goes with Shin. Also enjoyed Sherlock's chess match with Shin.

I binge-watched some Brokenwood Mysteries. The new season starts this week and I'll dive into it as soon as I finish up My Life Is Murder.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Damn the Torpedo Flu, a novella that explores what happens when one couple is the last man standing … so to speak.

Here's the miniblurb:

When the torpedo flu hits the space station, Paisley and Dale are practically the last ones standing. Working through the crisis will bring them closer together, if they don't kill each other first.

And a sneaky peek…

::Pass the word. A full one-third of the station has been torpedoed. Stay clear of the heads on levels five and seven. Engineering is down by nine workers, and they closed those two levels. If you gotta go, hit level six or eight. Pass the word. The outbreak has torpedoed one-third of the crew.::

Paisley heaved a sigh. "Great the head will be packed on six. No one likes the one on eight." She frowned. "It's too cold."

Dale snorted. "Maybe you should make that one your official place to hide out." He snagged the crew roster and marked off more blocks.

Paisley shivered. "No, it really is too cold down there." She glanced up. "Unless you wanna keep me warm?" She could go for getting up close and personal with him.

Dale smirked. "I can do that right here, which is where I'm staying for the duration." He nodded toward the door to the back wall. "Duck through there and the old single bathroom is usable." He inclined his head toward the long row of filing cabinets. "The last three are empty. I took up two with my gear." He leaned back in his chair.

Paisley grinned. "Are you inviting me to move in?" How interesting.

Dale shrugged. "I'm offering you a place to crash until this damned flu runs its course." He leaned forward again. "The less we interact with others, the better our chances of coming through this unscathed." He cocked his head toward his shoulder. "But the choice is obviously yours."

Paisley flashed a smile. "The easy access to a bathroom that isn't a walk-in freezer sells it." She waggled her eyebrows. "But you're a bonus too."

Dale rolled his eyes. "Shut up and go get your stuff?" He got up and fished a key from a hook on the bulkhead then handed it to her.

Paisley bounced off the couch. "I'll be back before you miss me." She brushed her mouth over his. "Thank you for this." Patting his chest, she skipped to the hatch.

Dale's lips quirked. "Yeah, yeah. You'd do the same for me." He huffed out a breath. "Right?" His tone showed his doubt.

Paisley shot him a deadpan glance. "If you have to ask, you don't deserve to know." Ducking out into the corridor, her laughter trailed behind her.

This one is shaping up to be way more fun than I thought it would be. I love writing Paisley and Dale.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Cupid's Folly

Ugh. So many small irritants combined to make the week rather challenging. Car problems, house problems, and too many things hitting at once. I'll get through it all, but I'm stressing out, which isn't fun.

The great news is we didn't lose power even with the wild back and forth temperatures. I have a feeling April won't be much better than March when it comes to stabilizing the weather patterns. If only the world could figure out what's causing all the bizarre weather. Yes, that's sarcasm. The world knows what the problem is.

Got a lot of work completed over the week. I have four main projects on my schedule and I'm plugging away at all of them. Finishing up two but have two more waiting in the wings. I also have a couple of backburner projects that I'll be dipping into again.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Two of my projects involve some tedious cleanup and it's nice to have something on in the background to keep things interesting. I made it through most of my usual shows.

I started with Foyle's War and enjoyed the episode. Kind of sad to see his female counterpart moved to the sidelines again. Lovely to see Sam help her husband get elected as an MP.

Caught another episode of Return to Paradise. I remembered most of this one and enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from other shows I've watched set in Australia.

Enjoyed another episode of Poirot. Really fun to see a couple of very young costars in this one. Also thoroughly enjoyed the mystery.

Elementary had a great episode. I didn't quite make it all the way through because I got distracted, but I enjoyed it.

Watched another episode of Batman Beyond. I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and I'm about two episodes from the end of the series and I need to decide what I'll be watching next. Maybe a Justice League series.

Caught another episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks and very much enjoyed watching Boimler lose his mind. Very fun!

I also had a chance to use my library membership to watch a Stevie Nicks concert via the Kanopy app. I'm going to work hard to make sure I'm taking advantage of everything my local libraries offer. The concert was so good!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Cupid's Folly, a novella that brings a couple together after they definitely get off on the wrong foot.

Here's the miniblurb:

Jinx Jersey just signed on as the XO of the Cupid's Folly, captained by Alrick Cates and he's given her fair warning she picked the worst time to start her new post and develop an attraction for him. The pleasure ship is booked solid for the couples' cruise, and they don't have time for romance.

And a sneaky peek…

Alrick paced back and forth on the bridge. "Moving on from the update on XO Barrick, while he's out, the civilian board saw fit to assign a temporary executive officer." He paused. "Jinx Jersey will be joining us for this cruise." And only this cruise. "A word of warning. She's brand new. You know what the couple's cruise is like. I'm warning you to not get any ideas." He started walking back and forth again. "The XO is off limits—" He broke off when he glanced up to find Jinx, looking incredible in her uniform, gazing at him with rage in her eyes.

Dammit, she would show up early. Yep. And she caught you out, dumbass.

She lifted her chin. "Sorry for interrupting." Moving further onto the bridge, her gaze never leaving his, she tilted her head. "Did I miss the memo about the earlier briefing?"

Dead silence met her question and none of the others would meet her gaze when she swept it around the assembled crew members. Which answered her query clearly enough. And Alrick kind of hated how bad they all looked right now.

Jinx gave a nod. "I see. Well then, let me apologize for dragging you all from your racks earlier than usual." She found a seat and got settled, smoothing her features into efficient professionalism. "Captain, if you'll continue the briefing…"

A measure of respect nudged its way into him, but he squashed it. He'd give her two full shifts before one of his crew or the passengers made a play for the little sexpot.

Flipping his folder open, he finished the briefing by giving everyone their assigned posts for the launch. "Any concerns?" He closed the file.

Jinx rose. "I have one." She addressed the other officers. "Will any of you have a problem taking orders from me?" She stood with her shoulders squared and her hands behind her back, a military stance.

All crew members shook their leads.

Jinx slowly met Alrick's gaze. "Well, Captain, guess it's a good thing my magnificent rack won't get in the way of my mouth issuing orders, isn't it?" She gave him a nod. "If there's nothing else, I'll be at my assigned post." She made a crisp turn and exited the bridge to head for the aft section of the ship where she'd oversee making sure the cargo got secured in the hold.

Alrick stood in stunned silence for a full minute, gazing at the empty spot she'd vacated. She hadn't raised her voice. She didn't show outward disrespect toward him or any of the crew. She had been quietly restrained when faced with his unwarranted hostility.

A throat clearing snapped his attention back to the bridge.

He blinked, his vision clearing to find raised eyebrows and questioning gazes directed his way. "Right. That's it. You're all dismissed."

A very low hum of buzzing voices started as soon as the crew cleared the bridge, with the exception of remaining members taking their places at their stations. Their almost eerie silence unnerved him. Normally, the chatter of prelaunch acted as his guidepost.

Five minutes later, Alrick finally grasped how his new XO had pretty much handed him his ass with brutal calm and served it up on a platter with lethal coldness. And showed him just how much of a dick he could be.

And, damned if wasn't the hottest thing I've ever seen.

Having a lot of fun with this story. Jinx and Alrick have a lot of friction, but they also have a lot of attraction.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Crash and Burn

Whew. It's been a long week. Can't say it's been terrible, more a constant state of busy. I did manage to take care of several personal life things that I've been putting off so that's a bonus. But I've also been scattered all over the place and that makes me bananapants.

Ohio is gearing up for another weather event where we have 84 degrees today for the high and by Monday, the high will be in the low forties. The barometer hates me right now. Also planning for power outages because when the temperature shifts that much in twenty-four to forty-eight hours and thunderstorms are thrown in, things tend to happen. Wind shears, lightning strikes, flash floods that take out trees. Yeah, definitely hope for the best but prep for the worst.

Work projects have been stacked up with more coming in. I'm very happy to be busy! I finished up a proofread of a terrific nonfiction book, got through a copy edit that ended up having some possibly big consistency concerns. Set up the start of a manuscript proofread to start this week and scheduled a read through of a manuscript that I'll be doing a developmental edit on. I have a few odds and ends that I'll be working on wherever I can also.

Did not get a lot of viewing done this week. Didn't have the bandwidth and needed to focus on work projects. Also ended up having a very productive writing week.

I did finish up Foyle's War and I enjoyed rewatching. I'd forgotten how reluctant Foyle was to join the security forces.

Also caught another episode of My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery. I love Rueben letting himself get pulled into the capers.

Still need to finish Poirot from last week. I'll probably start over because I didn't get very far into the episode before I had to pause.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Crash and Burn, a novella that explores what happens when the main character meets the wrong brother first.

Here's the miniblurb:

Pepper Strand met the wrong brother first and when her personal feelings get in the way, she takes the easy way out. When it leads to the death of Bax's sibling, she drowns her guilt with alcohol and Bax decides to make her crawl out of the bottle and into his arms.

And a sneaky peek…

Bax barely hesitated before he agreed. "Love to." He didn't like the way she'd started slurring her words or how she looked like she could topple over at any moment.

Especially since she more or less swayed on the barstool.

Bax held out a hand. "Where're you staying?" Hopefully somewhere close.

She pointed upstairs.

At least it's convenient.

He didn't know if they'd make it up the steps. "Come on. Let me help you up." He got his shoulder under her arm and wrapped his hand around her waist. "You've had enough."

She didn't argue at all and went with him up the stairs on unsteady legs.

He paused at the top of the steps. "Which room?"

She wobbled a little. "Uh, three."

He got them to the door and tried the knob. Locked.

He propped her against the wall. "Key?" She angled her hips around and stuck her butt out, indicating he'd find it in her back pocket.

He bit back a groan when he fished the card out and she let out a lusty laugh. She had an incredible ass, and his dick fought the confines of his pants. He pushed the keycard against the lock, the mechanism released, and the door snicked open. Wrapping an arm around Pepper, he guided her inside the room.

He didn't even get across the threshold before she turned and backed him against the wall and smashed her mouth against his. Shit. As good as he remembered. And Pepper didn't do things by halves. So everything she did stuck out in his mind.

The kisses were sloppy and hot, and he wanted her with everything he had. But not like this. He needed to slow her onslaught down.

He got the door shut and cupped her face, nudging her toward the bed. "Whoa. What's the hurry? We're not in a race here."

This one is coming together in small bursts of activity. I kind of know where things are going but the characters like to veer off in different directions and I'm okay with that.

 

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

ML Skye