Sunday Snippet: Yelling in Vain

Whew. Finally recovered from our vacation and I'm back to work with multiple projects and a possible new venture in the near future. I'm super excited about it but still need to nail down some details and make some decisions on the setup.

As mentioned, I'm doing two weeks of catch-up on the life update and television viewing. While gone, I didn't watch a lot but I did get some screen time in.

I caught two more episodes of Strangest Things. I quite enjoy the approach the show takes in trying to solve the mystery of odd artifacts.

Started The Book of Boba Fett and watched two episodes. So far, I like what I'm seeing. It's a little hoppy with the back and forth of the timeline, but I'm following that without too much trouble.

I also started Only Murders in the Building and loved the first episode. I'm excited to see where the show goes.

Watched another MasterClass lesson with Roxane Gay. She did a writer's workshop and discussed finding common ground. Very interesting stuff with this lesson and I enjoyed.

Sobbed during the Babysitter's Club episode. I think I only have one left and I'm very sad there aren't going to be more. This is such a good show.

Finally had a chance to watch the Frankie Drake Mysteries special, "Music at Midnight" and I'm so glad I got to see it. This is another show I'm sad won't be coming back.

Caught another episode of The Ready Room. This one featured Michelle Paradise and recapped the penultimate episode of season two. Really fun interview.

I finished season three of Driven and loved the finale. I'm so glad Passionflix is starting a new series. They've done a great job so far.

Watched another episode of Chicago Med. I'm not sure but this might be my last season of the show. I enjoy it, but I might take a bit of a break.

Enjoyed another episode of Batman: The Animated Series. I love how the first season kind of explored a lot of different villains and they weren't always the big bads we've come to know and love.

Caught another episode of Ted Lasso. I'm three episodes in and I'm enjoying the show. It's a tiny bit campy and I like that aspect.

Watched another episode of The Agatha Christie Hour. Very interesting conflict in this one and fun to see an uber-young John Nettles as one of the stars.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness. I actually have no idea where this one is going and I kind of like that. I do suspect the old and new cases will converge in a nasty way. Per usual.

Began a new Classic Who arc. For some reason the Psychic Circus is sticking out in my mind but I don't think I've actually seen these episodes. I'll know more next week.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Yelling in Vain, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

After an accident that takes the life of a fellow cadet, Lora Seaves falls back on her combative attitude to keep it together. Jestin Warbly has to decide whether or not Lora is cracking up or okay to fly. He's got one big problem … a powerful attraction for the rookie pilot clouds his judgment.

And a sneaky peek…

Lora faced her CO, colonel Mick Jenson. "What do you mean, I'm grounded?" This had never happened before. "Finals are two weeks from now. Can't I at least take the qualification test so I don't miss graduation?" What the hell is going on? This is unprecedented.

Jenson shifted in his seat and sent a glance at each man sitting on either side of him. Both shook their heads. Her CO sighed and motioned for both to lean in for a whispered conference. Terse words were exchanged and Lora didn't understand why the other two were so standoffish.

She couldn't have prevented the fatal accident. Did they blame her? An irrational shot of anger swelled in her throat.

When the trio finished, the elder of the two—Brandt, based on the name patch—got up and left.

Lora's gaze tracked his exit.

The younger—Collins—rose and cleared his throat. "Cadet Seaves, this particular set of circumstances has never occurred before. We've had crashes, yes. Even loss of life. But never in the way it happened when you and Cadet German were in the black." He paused. "Until a thorough investigation can be completed, we're not taking any chances." He puffed his chest out. "To that end, our decision is final. You won't fly until we're certain we've got all the answers." He strode out, leaving Lora with her CO.

Jenson frowned. "Look, Seaves, my hands are tied here. Try to sit tight and I'll let you know the next step … when I find out what it is." He scrubbed a hand over his face.

He acted like he wanted to say more but couldn't. But why? She didn't like this situation one damned but.

She gave a quick nod. "Yes, sir." Intellectually, she got the reasons for the decision, but her gut quivered with trepidation.

Could they really blame her? She had no idea. Could she do anything if they tried?

With a small sigh, she asked the most important question burning through her mind. "Will I be able to graduate at all?" She'd worked hard to be in the top percentage of the class.

Jenson didn't mince words. "If you're cleared for flight, you can take the final qualification." He hesitated a brief moment. "But you won't be able to graduate with your class. I'm sorry." His tone took on a weary note.

Lora kept her head held high when she exited the room. Only after she got halfway down the corridor did her shoulders slump and her eyes fill. She paused, putting a hand on the wall.

Taking a deep breath, she blinked the tears away. "What am I going to do now?"

Whatever happened, whatever they tried to stick on her regarding her classmate's death, she wouldn't go down without some kind of fight.

I finally have a handle on where I want things to go with this story. Lora is definitely going to have a big battle and it'll be on multiple fronts.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Yee Haw

It’s been a long and fun week. Left for vacation on Wednesday morning and we head home on Monday morning. I won’t have much in the way of viewing this week, so I’ll update next week with my regular schedule.

So far, I can honestly say the Grand Canyon is quite incredible. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous. It’s been great to see family and I’m kind of glad my husband and I both have family in the state of Arizona now. Gives a reason to return in the future.

I’ll be keeping the post brief and only note that I’ve started a new show and I’m excited to discuss next time. The life update is mainly I’m exhausted in the best way possible and I’m thrilled we got to have some time way. But I also can’t wait to get home and hug the dogs and kids.

Tonight’s post is from Yee Haw, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here’s the mini-blurb:

Two new transfers upset the delicate balance of the space carrier, Mephisto. A balance Kellsie Eaves and Wick Fairchilds worked so hard to obtain. When the duo attempts to restore the status quo, the troublemakers go after Kellsie and she gets to school them in the art of kicking ass, with Wick as her backup.

And a sneaky peek… (CW: suggested non-consent)

Kellsie worked out on the heavy bag in the gym on B-deck. Situated between a small arms locker and a machinist hub, she liked this spot because other people rarely used the location. The rattle and clank from the machinist hub tended to be a distraction.

She'd just finished a punch-kick combo when someone loudly entered the space.

"Well, look what we have here, Samson. Captain Hot Ass in the flesh and all alone." Mont leered and raised his eyebrows.

Bert sneered. "She must've wore Major Dick Face out—after they plotted and planned our supposed downfall." He advanced closer and made a circuit around Kellsie and the punching bag.

Kellsie kept her stance relaxed and grabbed her towel from the top of the bag. "Do you guys work hard at being stupid or does it come naturally?" She calculated the distance to the doors and quickly decided against trying to take this spectacle public.

Eldric closed in from the other side and tried to box Kellsie in. "You saying we're dumb? Think again, sweet ass. Samson and I aren't boning a superior officer … although that could change real quick."

Kellsie cut across the floor and reached for a bottle of water. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught sight of Lieutenant Lila Carns, standing wide-eyed just outside the door. Kellsie didn't draw attention to the other officer, instead twisting off the cap and taking a long drink of water.

Confident backup would be on the way, she'd let things play out. "I don't think so, boys. You're a little big-mouthed and blabby for my taste."

Eldric reached out and snagged her arm. "And you're a little too trapped to do much about it." He squeezed her bicep, twisting hard.

Instead of scaring her, the action pissed her off. But when a blue blur dashed past the second door and Kellsie fought the urge to smash her fist in Mont's face. If anything went down, she'd need a witness.

Bert sneered. "I don't think you understand how this is gonna go, honey babe." He gave her a long-slow once over. "You get both of us all to yourself."

Kellsie snorted. "Not. Gonna. Happen."

Mont spread his hands out in front of him. "Oh, come on, captain. You put out for the major. And he's nothing but a big dick." He paused and smirked. "But you seem to like having his slab between your legs." He grew thoughtful. "Or does he shove it up your ass? I'll bet you've got a great ass for fucking." He reached out and slid a hand down her neck. "And I'll lay odds you can take a dick all the way down your pretty little throat." He applied pressure above her windpipe and glanced toward Samson. "Wanna see how much she can take?" He released her and his hands dropped to his belt and loosened the buckle.

Bert made a sound of agreement and started undoing his belt also. "Oh, yeah, let's teach this little bitch a lesson in sucking dick."

Actually pretty excited about how this one is coming together. This scene ended up being more than I expected but I’m also happy with how it turned out.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Yearly Vigil

Had a crazy week with new projects sliding into my inbox and each of them is interesting and a little different for me. I love diving into new areas. I'm also trying to get ready for a vacation and it's a little daunting because I haven't traveled much recently.

Ended up getting a lot of television viewing in this week. I had a good handle on my work stuff and kept the shows going in the background.

I finished up the first season of Moon Knight and ended up enjoying the series overall. I wouldn't mind seeing more at all.

Also finished The Hardy Boys and I'm a little torn over how I feel about where everything ended up. On one side, there are so many possibilities for a third season. On the other, I'm struggling to buy-in to the whole swap at the end and a miraculous wish being granted that one of the characters had. I'll let both sit with me for a while and see how I feel if and when a third season comes around.

Watched an episode of Peak Practice and I kind of feel for Joanna. Also kind of wondering when Andrew will be back and if he'll still be as self-destructive as he always seems to be.

Caught two MasterClass lessons with Roxane Gay. The first one discussed writing about trauma and the second offered feedback for an essay. I thoroughly enjoy the way Roxane presents information.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Babysitters Club. Again, I'm so disappointed there won't be more to the story after this season ends. This is such a great show!

Watched another episode of The Ready Room. Anson Mount had some great moments during his interview. It's always fun when the actors are huge fans of the Trek 'verse.

Caught two more episodes of Driven. I have one left and I'm excited to see how this series ends. I have a lot of love for this one.

Ended up viewing two episodes of Chicago Med. I'm starting to feel the same way about April as I do about Natalie, which is disappointing. I realize both are leaving the series, but the dings to their characterizations don't seem fair.

Watched a two-part Batman: The Animated Series and forgot how much I liked the origin story of Clayface in this one.

Started Ted Lasso after a lot of pestering from my brother. I have the first two episodes watched and, so far, it's quite good. Everyone raves about the show so I'm confident I'll enjoy the whole thing.

Caught another of The Agatha Christie Hour. Really enjoyed this one. It was actually kind of campy and fun with a lot of mistaken identity and misadventure.

Watched a two-part Silent Witness and loved the twisty turns in the show. Ended up being surprised a couple of times by things I didn't expect.

Enjoyed two episodes of Classic Who. Wrapped up the second arc and should start a new one this week.

Caught another episode of Strangest Things. This one focused on relics that were supposed to help see the future.

Finished up season three of Harrow. Gotta say I ended up being very happy with the conclusion. I truly hope we'll see a season four, even with annoying boss lady.

Enjoyed another episode of Blue Heelers. This one had some interesting reveals with Adam, which is probably long overdue.

Watched two episodes of Classic Rugrats and finished out season three. I'll be starting season four this week.

Also caught another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. This one had a great mystery with some fun twists. I'm kind of hoping Gina is done pining for Mike but I somehow doubt she is.

That pretty much sums up the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Yearly Vigil, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Venessa Broyles makes a yearly vigil to the graveside of her former lover, Hamish Blesdale, where she runs into his best friend, Hogan Baird. What starts out as an awkward stroll down memory lane eventually brings two lonely souls together.

And a sneaky peek…

Hogan broke the silence. "You're soaked through." His gaze swept over her as if seeing her for the first time.

She didn't know whether to be insulted or grateful. Neither, stupid. Just get through the moment. Say goodbye, walk away, and give Hogan time to be with his memories. She needed to get out of the rain. Unlike him, she'd left her dress overcoat back on base. When she'd left, the light drizzle didn't really warrant the heavy outerwear, but the heavier deluge started after she arrived.

She wished she'd thought ahead now. "I'm fine. Just need to get out of this rain." And get away from the memories. Glancing his way, the night they spent together came roaring back.

Hogan's face softened and he shrugged out of the overcoat, draping it over her shoulders, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Gads, Venessa. You're like ice. We need to get you home and warmed up." He wrapped an arm around her and guided her to his car.

She didn't argue or try to talk him out of opening the door for her. Her plan to walk home in the rain appeared stupid in hindsight. She hadn't slept well, the alarm went off too early, and she'd been fuzzy-headed since she woke up.

Hogan slid behind the wheel and waited for her to fasten her seatbelt before he pulled away from the graveside and exited the cemetery. He kept the small talk along the way, still stilted and impersonal, to a minimum. A kick of regret struck her. Hogan's show of concern didn't mean anything … just something he felt obligated to do.

She lifted a shaky hand to her forehead. She felt horrible. Heavy, weary, achy, terrible. She should really thank him for insisting on giving her a lift. She didn't want to go home, but had no will to make a fuss.

Hogan rolled to a stop at the corner of her apartment, dropping her at the curb. "Get inside and take a hot shower. You'll feel better once you're warm." He flipped his hazard lights on to signal his short halt.

Unbuckling her seat belt, Venessa mumbled her thanks then crawled out of the car and trudged toward her apartment. She had her key in the door before she realized she hadn't said anything about feeling ill. Dismissing the thought, she entered the residence and shrugged out of her coat. No … Hogan's coat.

Her shoulders slumped. "Shit." Now she'd have to track him down to return it.

And that meant seeing him again. She didn't want to analyze the mixed feelings the idea gave her. Keeping a tight rein on her emotions would get her through the day.

I love how this story is coming together. Venessa and Hogan are in a dark place but things eventually get brighter.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Yarn Spinning

The first week of August didn't end up being horrible and hot. We did get some humidity but the temperatures weren't terrible. I didn't have any big work projects and got to focus on a lot of writing. I also had a terrific brainstorm idea that I hope to talk more about in the near future!

Solid week of viewing television in the background while I got to work on writing. I'm a little ahead of my weekly schedule and hope I can work another movie in this week.

I caught two episodes of The Snoopy Show. This is such a great thing to have on in the background when I need some noise and funny stuff.

Watched an episode of the Agatha Christie Hour. The slightly paranormal angle made me happy.

Enjoyed a two-part Silent Witness and ended up liking it a lot. A good twisty plot on this one.

Finished up an arc of Classic Who and started a new one. The cybermen made an appearance in the new arc.

Also got the last episode of Most Terrifying Places in America watched. The final episode focused on the unnatural world and had some good stories.

Caught another episode of Moon Knight. This show is such a nice mix of action and humor with some interesting lore thrown in. I really love it.

Watched the penultimate episode of Harrow. Next should be the big finale and all I have to say is nothing bad better happen to Fern or Cal. At this point, I don't care if James is a good guy or a bad guy, I'm not a fan at all. Fairley makes me so happy and Grace … well, I really hoped they wouldn't do a weird triangle thing, but it looks like that might be in store for next season, if there is one. Bleh.

Enjoyed an episode of Blue Heelers, which kind of picked up where the last one left off. Loved how the characters pieced everything together and got Nick off the hot seat for the most part. We'll see what happens on the next episode.

Caught another MasterClass lesson with Roxane Gay. She talked about consuming and criticizing culture and I took a couple of valuable points away with me. I enjoy listening to her so much.

Watched another episode of the Babysitters Club. I say it often, but I'm so disappointed this show won't have any more episodes. It's fun and witty but always has some great dramatic moments also.

Thoroughly enjoyed two Classic Rugrats episodes. The Passover episode is one of my favorites and I'd forgotten that was in season three.

Caught another episode of Driven from Passionflix. So much happened and cliffhanger end hit hard. Can't wait to watch the next one!

Have to say I'm so disappointed in Natalie's characterization on Chicago Med. I realize we're close to when she'll be leaving but, man, she definitely did Will wrong on this one. I loved Daniel's arc and the understated way he showed his grief over CeeCee's death.

Finished up The Force Awakens and I'm so glad I've watched the movie from beginning to end and not in sporadic pieces. Looking forward to episode VIII.

Watched another Batman: The Animated Series episode. This is probably my all-time favorite animated series and the Dr. Freeze storyline is a particular favorite in the first season.

Caught another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries. This one had a lot of twists and I liked them. Gina continues to crack me up on a regular basis.

Started a new docuseries with Strangest Things. This is another show where I've bits and pieces of episodes and I'm excited to watch them in order and all the way through.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Yarn Spinning, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Torrin Becks and Gaelan Van Zant pull duty on the same scout ship, which creates a good bit of tension in the five man crew. Torrin and Gaelan have something of a history and when the yarn spinning—who has the greatest exploit—starts, Torrin has to decide if she'll call Gaelan out on a big fat fib, or let the story stand as the winner.

And a sneaky peek…

Torrin regretted the words as soon as they left her mouth. What did I just let myself in for?

Gaelan threw out a hand. "If you're anti-having kids, why didn't you say something?" He paced back and forth. "I mean, why date him for three years and then break this heart?" He paused and turned to face her.

Torrin swallowed down the bile rising from revisiting the hard reality of Eric's lies.

She exhaled slowly. "First, I have nothing against having a family. Someday." She leaned against the bulkhead, crossing her arms over her chest. "I'm not ready yet. Hell, I've got three more years before I can think of mustering out." She met Gaelan's gaze. "Eric wanted me to have a kid right now and when I said I'd like to wait until I'm out so my career didn't take a hit he called me stupid then decided I didn't want kids." Her heart twisted because she'd never, ever said she wouldn't be happy to have a family. "I mean, honestly, my career couldn't possibly be as important to me as his is to him, right?" She'd worked hard to rise up through the ranks and having Eric completely reduce her down to becoming nothing more than a breeding vessel … sucked balls and hurt like hell.

Because she'd loved him.

Gaelan closed his eyes. "Let me guess. He gave you an ultimatum?" His tone showed he'd accepted the stark truth of her words.

Torrin flicked her tongue against her teeth. "You betcha. He wanted me to choose him and a kid on his timetable or staying in for my allotted time so I could receive my ten-year pension—which would've helped with raising a kid, by the way." She pushed away from the bulkhead. "So I walked. He didn't leave me a choice. Especially not once he started getting nasty when I didn't cave to his demand." Her gut roiled with the memory of Eric's tactics.

Gaelan's eyes narrowed. "Nasty, how?" His head tilted to one side, his gaze studying her.

Torrin didn't sugar-coat her answer. "By not giving me updated schedule changes so I'd be late for duty, or telling the officer in charge that I needed time off but forgot to put the request in." She bit her cheek, tamping down the anger. "I got dragged before a review board and had to explain myself. Two hours later, I ended things and got an emergency transfer. I was stuck on an outpost waiting on the new orders to the Merrymack." Never mind the fact Eric had been in the wrong but got to stay on base.

Gaelan winced. "I'm sorry." His voice held regret.

Torrin shrugged. "It is what it is. I don't hold a grudge." She tried hard to live and let live.

Gaelan snorted. "Eric does."

Torrin huffed out a breath. "I'm aware. But I'm not going to change on a fundamental level and let hate rule my life. Not for Eric. Not for anyone."

Gaelan put a hand on her shoulder. "You shouldn't have to. And I'm sorry for taking his side." He gave her a gentle squeeze. "He's changed a lot since you ended things. And it's not for the better. I don't think I realized how far and how much he's changed since we were kids."

Torrin lifted her chin. "Sometimes it's hard to see those kinds of cracks when you're as close as you two are." Hell, she'd missed them, too … until Eric showed his whole hand.

Gaelan clarified. "As close as we were. I can't go back to not knowing how badly he's treated you." He paused a moment. "Or how he tried to wreck your career to get what he wanted."

Torrin smiled. "I appreciate that." She put her palm forward. "Truce?"

Gaelan clasped her hand. "More than that. Clean slate." After a firm shake, he gave a nod and ducked back into his quarters.

Torrin sat quietly, more than a little relieved. Her past with Eric might finally be at rest. But she'd guard her heart against the burgeoning attraction she had for Gaelan. Why invite that kind of trouble when her life started looking semi-normal again?

This story went in a direction I didn't expect but I love how it's coming together. Torrin and Gaelan have a history to overcome and an obstacle standing between them and that's a lot of fun to write.

 

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

ML Skye