Sunday Snippet: Advocate for the Defense

Happy Almost Halloween! Gotta say it's been a week. Several work projects hit at once—which I'm not complaining about—and a couple of disasters decided to show up on my doorstep. It's been a low-bandwidth week for me.

I didn't get a lot of viewing time in, mainly due to the work projects and the distractions form the washing machine going kaput, a trip to the ED for one of my grown kiddos, and having another one out of town and calling to check in several times.

I did get a few things watched. Finished up the Umbrella Academy and, wow, didn't quite expect how things went down. Looking forward to seeing the next episode.

Caught some Classic Rugrats with the Thanksgiving episode. I'd actually forgotten about this one and I'm glad I got to watch it again. I might have to set up a bit of countdown and try to catch all the holiday episodes between now and the solstice.

Watched another Batman: The Animated Series. It's always fun when they have Alfred step out of his comfort zone and this episode definitely makes him stray. That's two in a row and I'm here for it.

Enjoyed an episode of Ted Lasso. I love Roy and Keeley so much. Nate is getting a wee bit annoying. Jamie is … I'm not sure. If he doesn't act like a raging ass, I might be able to stomach seeing him. LOL

Caught another episode of Suspects and loved how it all came together. Some really interesting bits popped and I love the pacing. Great show.

I started another episode of Endeavor but I'll have to finish it when I have higher brain capacity. It has a focus on the space race and I love that.

Watched the second part of Silent Witness and whew, this one ended up being very twisty. Kind of bummed about how it ended but not surprised.

Enjoyed another Classic Who episode. I like the setting for this arc and look forward to the next episode.

Sci Fi Science looked into how to blow up a planet. Had a lot of fun watching this episode. I love so much that fans are featured in each episode.

Started the next episode of Ms. Marvel and love it so far. I'm hoping to finish it up in the near future.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Advocate for the Defense, a novella that puts a problem pilot in the hands of her biggest rival to determine her future.

Here's a mini-blurb:

Jada Link has self-sabotage down to an art form and she gets into trouble on a regular basis. But when she needs an advocate to get out of her latest scrape, she meets the one person who can make her career ... and possibly find his way into her heart—Quince Lazenby.

And a sneaky peek…

Passed. Graduated. Shipped out. Everything she'd ever wanted. At least since she'd taken control of her life and applied for the cadet program.

Letting a little hope in, she nodded. "Okay. Keep my nose clean for three weeks." She met his gaze. "Could you define what that means, exactly?" She probably shouldn't test his patience, but the devil on her shoulder nudged her to do so.

Quince narrowed his eyes. "It means no fighting, no tempting fate by pointing out any officer's flaws—personal or otherwise, and keeping your opinions to yourself, even if they're probably right." He paused, his mouth curving into a grin. "Work hard, keep your head down, and pass your qualifications so you can graduate. That's it."

Jada blew out a breath. "Whew. That's a tall order." She slowly got to her feet. "But I won't let you down." She thrust her palm forward to seal her vow.

Quince tucked her file under his arm and clasped her hand. "I'm going to hold you to this. We'll meet here the day after tomorrow and go over the process for the hearing." He squeezed her fingers. "Until then, stay the course."

A warm bolt of sensation traveled up her arm even after he let go of her hand.

She made a sound of agreement but couldn't speak if she'd tried at that moment. The clash of reality with her perceptions of him merged into an appealing picture. And she liked the visual splash of he painted in her mind.

She liked Quince. Five years older, but that didn't keep her from being very attracted to him. She had his entire jacket memorized, because she considered him competition and the standard she wanted to achieve. Meeting him only made her determination stronger.

And … he'd seen through her stubbornness but didn't push until she made him. She respected his approach to working with her. She also admired his ability to issue directives without being a dick about it.

And aside from passing, graduating, and shipping out … she actually wanted him. What would he think if she pushed the envelope? Did she dare find out?

The devil on her shoulder cackled gleefully. Hell, yes.

Meeting his gaze again, she posed her question. "So … after everything is settled? Do you think you and I could…" She trailed off only because the words have sex wouldn't leave her brain and she couldn't be that bold.

Quince lifted a brow. "What? Hook up?" He hesitated a moment. "You don't really know me."

Jada flushed, but pushed onward. "And that's a problem, why? I don't have to have your whole life story. I know enough to like what I see. We'd be a good match." She had his life story, but he didn't know that … and he definitely didn't have hers.

Quince tilted his head to the side. "Possibly." He straightened. "No, we probably would be." He gave a nod. "I'm in. But … graduation has to come first."

Jada let a slow smile curve her lips. "Looking forward to both."

And she actually thought she might make it to the big event now.

Quince made his way to the door. "Day after tomorrow. Don't forget. We'll meet here before the hearing."

She lifted her chin. "I'll be ready."

Even if she had to make nice with Browers until then.

I'm happy with how this story is coming together. It's going down a slightly different path and I like how that's working so far.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Zulu Delta Niner

Had a bit of a rough week and felt under the weather for most of it. I did make progress on two of my work projects so not a total loss.

I didn't quite get all the way through my full streaming schedule, but I got a decent amount of viewing completed.

I started the second season of Ted Lasso and quite enjoyed the first episode. I'm interested to see where things go with the psychologist.

Caught another Agatha Christie Hour and loved the cloak and dagger aspect of the episode. Very twisty and turny and an excellent resolution.

Started season six of Endeavor and enjoyed the first episode. Not sure I like the new DCI but I'll see where things go. I don't like not having all the guys together but a shake up now and then is probably good for the show.

Watched another episode of Silent Witness and had no idea Clarissa had a husband. Good to see how they interacted. Interesting premise and I can't wait to see how it plays out.

Started a new arc of Classic Who. It's a bit spooky and I liked the first episode. Looking forward to seeing where this one goes.

Sci Fi Science had a fun topic of traveling to a parallel universe. I like to see how a theoretical physicist puts ideas together that could one day possibly happen.

Enjoyed another episode of Ms. Marvel. This group of characters is a joy to watch. I love the way Kamala interacts with everyone and the show nails the entire awkwardness of being a teenager pretty well.

The finale of Only Murders in the Building did not disappoint! I'm so excited to start season two because I have to know what happens next for our trio of characters.

Started season four of Blue Heelers. Nice to see Roz again even if the circumstances were sad. I'm a little disappointed I won't have new episodes to watch after this season unless I want to jump to eleven.

I'm in the middle of an Umbrella Academy episode and should have it finished up later today. Things are really spiraling and that's not a bad thing.

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

Here's the mini-blurb:

In a war-torn galaxy, Nell Watkinson works to save lives on the front lines in the battle arena. When she returns home, she meets Jerrick Haight, a man who's not afraid to fight if his number is called, but he vehemently opposes waging war when it spreads resources so thin their own people suffer. On opposite sides of a moral dilemma, Jerrick's actions put him in danger and Nell uses everything at her disposal to save his life.

And a sneaky peek…

"Take care, Rod. I'll stop in if I can before I ship back out." She squeezed his hand before leaving the transfer unit.

Making her way through the emergency department, she shook her head. On the ride from the airport to the base hospital, shock filled her at the desolation and horrible conditions people were living with. The ED looked like the warzone she'd left behind out in the black.

"What the hell? I've been gone three years, not a dozen." How can things be this bad?

She exited the hospital and found an escort waiting to take her to the ministry of war.

Rolling her eyes, she addressed the ranked officer. "My old men set the goon squad to provide shuttle service? Am I supposed to be impressed?" The two-man team had her dad's name written all over it.

The lieutenant gave her a grim smile. "There have been a lot of protests lately. He wanted to make sure you made it to your meeting safely." He opened the back door of the SUV. "And he wants you there right away." He swept an arm forward, trying to usher her inside.

Nell frowned. Not even time to get cleaned up and refreshed with a shower from the flight in? Too bad, Dad. She'd get one before she met with the old man.

She didn't make a move to enter the vehicle. "Look, you're following orders, I get that. But I'm not dancing to my father's tune here. I'm going to demand we stop by my apartment." When it looked like he'd argue, she played on his sympathy. "Please. I haven't been home in three years and I want a hot shower and a fresh uniform before I meet with the colonel." She stopped short of batting her lashes at the officer.

He exchanged a glance with his counterpart, a junior lieutenant. The other guy shrugged. Nell checked their name badges. Hoyt and Montell, Hoyt being the higher ranked.

Hoyt sighed. "We really shouldn't…"

Nell squarely met his gaze. "It'll take me no more than ten minutes to freshen up and we can be on our way. I live less than five blocks from here." She leaned in a little. "I'll take the heat for this. My plan is to inform the colonel that we got stuck in protest traffic. You can back me up or not, but there's your out." She had no qualms about lying to her dad.

He'd lied to her more than once.

Montell broke his silence. "It'll be easier to let her do what she wants. We're already losing time standing here arguing." He popped the front passenger door open and slid inside the SUV.

Hoyt jerked his head toward the back. "Let's go. I hope you're accurate on the time. If we're more than thirty minutes late, he'll send an entire team out looking for us."

Nell scrambled into the back. "You're welcome to time me." She pulled the door shut and pondered his warning.

Is he serious about my dad sending a team out for us? Why the hell would he do that?

Traveling the short distance to her apartment, she paid careful attention to the empty storefronts and operating businesses that had bars on the windows. The park a block away from her building had tents pitched in semi-neat rows with burn barrels and cooking fires strewn throughout. The SUV pulled up to her apartment complex, a huge brick dwelling with eight floors.

Nell had the door open before the SUV rolled to a complete stop. Montell got out and tried to follow her, but she waved him off.

Angling her head around, she called out. "There's a clear line of sight to the door. I'll be quicker if you just let me go alone. I'm on the fourth floor and the windows face the street. You'll know if anything happens." Not waiting for a response, she ducked inside and hit the steps at a run.

True to her word, it took less than ten minutes to freshen up with a quick, hot shower and a clean uniform. On her way back down to her waiting escort, her heart dropped at the disrepair her complex had fallen into. While not as bad as some of the buildings along the route, the walls needed new paint and the steps had tracked mud and dirt all the way down.

Heading outside, she quickly got back inside the SUV. "All set. Let's go see the colonel." She definitely wanted a conversation with her dad.

This one is going down some paths I didn't expect and I like the detours. Nell and her dad are not going to see eye to eye on much of anything.

 

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

ML Skye

Zoning in the VZ (a V-World novella)

I should not have made a joke about having snow before Halloween in my last post. Apparently, there's a chance we might have some in the early part of the week. If it happens, it'll probably be a dusting and won't last long, but, geez, I'm not quite ready to drag out my cold-weather clothes yet.

Had a good week with my work projects and made a tiny bit of progress on my future endeavor. I also got some writing time in, which makes me happy. I have some home projects that need attention this week so I might not have as much time to write as I'd like.

Had a decent viewing week and made a full circuit through my usual programs. Caught the first season finale of Ted Lasso and I'm excited to start season two this week.

Watched the second episode of Suspects and enjoyed the twists this one took. I like the cast and characters and the pacing is excellent. Definitely going to continue watching this one.

Finished up series five of Endeavor and loved where things ended up. I'm looking forward to starting series six this week.

Caught the second part of Silent Witness and, whew, what a ride. I loved how twisted up everything got before the final act. Considering I'm in season twenty, it's nice to still love this show.

Watched the final part of Classic Who's arc with Leftbridge-Stewart. Thoroughly enjoyed for the most part. Should be starting a new multi-part arc this week.

Started Sci-Fi Science and liked the first episode. I've seen bits and pieces of this show and I'm excited to watch it through from start to finish.

Loved the second episode of Ms. Marvel. I have a feeling this will end up being one of my favorite Marvel shows. The characters are a lot of fun.

Caught the penultimate episode of Only Murders in the Building and, wow, it blew my mind in the best possible way. I can't wait to see the finale this week.

The Umbrella Academy had a great episode. Things are coming together and I'm looking forward to seeing how things play out in the next episode. I did not think Klaus would end up being one of my favorite characters but he totally is. I love him in all his screwed up glory.

Watched the second episode of Star Trek: Discovery in season three. I'm glad to have everyone back together, but it's always nice to see the crew shine under Saru's leadership.

Also caught another episode of Batman: The Animated Series. This one featured the Joker again and it might be sacrilegious but he's my favorite Mark Hamill character of all time.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Zoning in the VZ, a V-World novella.

Here's the mini-blurb:

With Nemesis no longer wreaking havoc in V-World, Augustus Serrano can't celebrate a job well done until he rescues Santina McGovern who doesn't know her boss is no longer in play. Scared for her life, Santina is zoning—sending out multiple copies of herself to engage the grid—and the longer she stays in the harder her return to reality will be. Augustus has to earn her trust and help her get out before she's shredded in the VZ.

And a sneaky peek…

Augustus Serrano stood outside his direct superior's office. "Mallory's gonna flip her shit when I put this request in." Inhaling deeply, he knocked twice then entered the room.

Mallory Biden glanced up from the electronic tablet in her hand. "Auggie." Her tone stayed neutral but her gaze narrowed.

He gave a nod. "You know why I'm here, don't you?" He should've anticipated she would.

If nothing else, this saved time.

She set the tablet aside. "I know you. So, yeah, I have a solid idea." She motioned for him to sit in one of the comfortable chairs across from her.

He sank down. "You disagree, right? Think it's a terrible idea." Hell, he actually doubted the loosely planned operation would work.

She shook her head. "I don't think it's terrible. I do have reservations." She picked the tablet up again and turned it toward him. "I've run sims. The odds are definitely not in your favor." Pushing the device forward, she waited for him to pick it up. "That said, shit goes sideways for us all the time. Especially where Nemesis had his dark tentacles mucking about." She shuddered a little.

Auggie didn't blame her. What that guy put all of them through. Mallory and Surge Tempest, Nemesis's former partner. Deandra Wilder, another former associate of Nemesis and Surge, and Ric, Mallory's brother and brilliant mind behind taking Nemesis down. They barely made it out of the VZ—virtual zone—alive.

And now, Auggie wanted to go back in … to hopefully save a life. Could he really pull this off?

Mallory leaned forward. "You know she might be impossible to find, right? Or be too far gone to bring out." Her gaze held concern.

Auggie grunted. "If she's beyond help or completely shredded, at least I can note the place and time." He left off the part about it being for her death.

Mallory's lips thinned. "She's been zoning a long time. She can't come out until her copies are either reintegrated or erased from the VZ." She nodded to the tablet again. "I ran sims for that, too."

Auggie swiped to the next data set and frowned. "Is this your half-assed attempt to convince me it's impossible?" He had a loose plan for this problem also.

Mallory gave him a hard look. "This is my whole-assed way of forearming you with knowledge. You're gonna do what you're gonna do, whether I approve it or not." She leaned back, folding her arms over her chest.

Auggie winced. "Sorry, Mal. That was a dick move." He placed the device on the desk. "Seeing the numbers makes me more determined. She did end up saving our asses, whether she meant to or not."

And Santina McGovern deserved a shot at a life after Nemesis.

Mallory lifted her chin. "I figured." Leaning forward again, she met his gaze. "What's your plan?"

This series is a lot of fun to write. Trying to imagine what going into a computer program would be like is so challenging but also satisfying in a weird way.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Zipper Incident

Had a truly fall-weather week … to the point we had to turn the heat on. We'll probably get another brief spell of warmer temperatures before things settle down into actual fall. Or, we could have snow before Halloween. It's Ohio.

Busy work week with several projects going at the same time. I did get through a round of my usual viewing schedule.

Ted Lasso didn't disappoint with Rebecca's reveal and the catalyst for her finally making it happen ended up being so good. I rather hope Rupert dies in a fire or maybe gets hit by a double-decker bus in the near future. What a twat. Keeley continues to make me laugh out loud and I have so much love for her.

Caught another episode of The Agatha Christie Hour, which ended up being quite a fun episode even if the whole point was to gaslight one poor guy into handing over something that didn't even belong to him.

I picked up where I left of with Endeavor in season five and caught back up with the characters. I'm looking forward to more and seeing where things go.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and thoroughly enjoyed the twists in the episode. I'm not quite sure who the culprit is and that's always fun for me.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Who. Loved seeing Three's car pulled out of mothballs and the interactions between the brigadier and the Doctor. So much fun.

Finished up the first season of Strangest Things and I'm looking forward to the second. I love seeing how they try to figure out what the relics are and how they were used.

Started Ms. Marvel and loved the first episode. I'm very excited to dive into this series. Kamala and Bruno are awesome!

Only Murders in the Building had an awesome episode with the Superfans. Seriously, I loved so much about how everything played out. Okay, except at the end. Now I can't wait to find out what happened to the bassoonist. I have so many theories, but two stand out and I'll share if either one of those is correct.

Finished up season three of Blue Heelers and said good-bye to Wayne. I'm actually kind of glad it was indeed a random act as the episode title suggested. I'm kind of bummed out that I'll only be able to watch one more season in order then I'll have to skip to the later seasons. Streaming sucks sometimes.

Watched another MasterClass lesson with Roxane Gay. She discussed being a good literary citizen in this one and I enjoyed what she had to say. Kindness doesn't cost a red cent and being considerate of others is sometimes a lost gesture that should be the norm instead of the exception.

The Umbrella Academy had another terrific episode. I love how much chaos there is and also how the characters end up being there for each other even when they'd rather be anywhere else.

Caught an episode of Classic Rugrats and laughed out loud more than once and remembered doing the same when watching with the kiddos.

Finished off the week with Batman: The Animated Series and the introduction of the Clock King. I loved this episode when it originally aired and enjoyed it again this time around.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Zipper Incident, a sexy short that takes a practical joke to a steamy conclusion.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Layne Donaker makes a grave error when she mistakenly uses a super adhesive on Hyde Scarlotti's zippers—all of them, including his flight suit. Hyde is beyond done with her stupid pranks and calls her out in front of the entire crew, which Layne doesn't take kindly.

And a sneaky peek…

Hyde loved laughing with Layne and they hadn't done any since his promotion.

He sobered. "What are you really afraid of, Layne?" He needed to have her back to her brand of normal.

She hesitated but finally answered. "That you'll move on and we'll never get a chance to well…" She motioned between them. "See if there's more here." Her cheeks flushed pink.

Finally! Progress. He'd been stupid not to see it.

He cupped her face. "Oh, Layne. There's more. There always has been."

Her eyes went wide. "Why didn't you say anything?"

He huffed out a breath. "Because you weren't ready." And pushing the idea would've blown any chance they had.

She glanced away, acknowledging the truth of that statement. Sometimes he knew her better than she knew herself.

She met his gaze again, bold and certain. "I'm ready now." Her voice held steady conviction.

He believed her. She finally figured out what she wanted. Them. Together.

His head tilted and his mouth caught hers in a steamy kiss. She moaned and slipped her tongue past his teeth. Steamy turned into something seriously hot. He could get used to this.

Keys jangled and they broke apart, each breathing a little heavier than normal. Layne's tongue flicked over her lower lip and her mouth twisted in a quirky smile. The lance corporal unlocked the cell. He only arched his eyebrow at finding them so close together.

Swinging the door open, he swept his arm out. "CO said you two can leave now … as long as you're done throwing punches."

Layne sidled past him. "Oh, we're done. We kinda worked everything out." She sent a Hyde a sideways glance.

The lance corporal smirked. "Yeah, I kinda figured." He pinned Hyde with a look. "Hang on to that one."

Hyde flashed a grin. "I intend to." He exited behind Layne and fell into step beside her.

He'd keep her as long as she wanted.

Layne and Hyde are fun characters to write. I love tipping a friendship into the something more zone.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Zipped Lips

Welcome to spooky month! October is one of my favorite months, even if it means holiday season is hiding around the corner. So far, we've had some fall-like weather and that's making me very joyful right now.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Work projects are ongoing and I needed some quiet time to focus on those. But I made a full circuit of my standard streaming schedule.

Once again, Ted Lasso delivered a full-on episode. I'm nervously awaiting the moment when Rebecca reveals why she really hired Ted and dying to see the fallout. Keeley rules at being a mess but not staying that way. I love how she's absolutely not afraid of Rebecca because it never occurred to her to be so. This show. It's so good.

I tried to watch the behind the scenes feature for Brokenwood Mysteries but couldn't seem to get it to play. I'll try again this week.

Started a new show and watched the first episode of Suspects. So far, I'm hooked. I enjoyed the characters and watching the case unfold.

Finished up the second half of Silent Witness and liked the twist the episode took. I kind of thought I had the right killer but the history part I didn't quite see coming.

Caught another episode of Classic Who. I'm ready for the Doctor's reunion with Leftbridge-Stewart. I'll be disappointed if it doesn't happen in the next installment.

Watched another episode of Strangest Things. This one featured the enigma machine and delved into the history of how the encryption finally got cracked.

Finished the first season of The Book of Boba Fett and I have to say, I ended up loving this show! I hope there's another season.

Enjoyed another episode of Only Murders in the Building. What a mess Oliver and Mabel got into. I can't wait to see what happens next!

Started season nine of Peak Practice. Gotta say Andrew kind of annoys me when he darts off to figure himself out. I guess it's something of a character trait with him. Loved how Joanna and Sam held the line and got through the ordeal of having their patients down with an unknown virus.

Caught another MasterClass lesson with Roxane Gay. She focused on getting published and what to expect from the traditional side of publishing and also delved a little into the small, independent presses and self-publishing. Good information.

The Umbrella Academy had a stellar episode. Pieces are falling into place and plots mixed with subplots are popping up. Allison's concern about Leonard is definitely warranted and I'm very interested in what Vanya's power is. I loved the interactions with Five and Luthor and Klaus and Diego and, of course, the standoff with ChiChi and Hazel ended up being terrific. This show is amazing.

Started season three of Star Trek: Discovery. Gotta say I'm kind of blown away. Can't wait to have Michael back with her crew and hopefully with the addition of a few more members. Excellent premiere!

Finished off the week with Batman: The Animated Series and got another episode without a feature rogue's gallery villain. I really enjoy the slice of life ones.

I'm also in the midst of watching more Resisting Roots, a Passionflix original. I might have it finished up this week, but I won't make any promises.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Zipped Lips, a sexy short story that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Details of intimate encounters are spilled during a rousing card game and recent hookups are brought to light, but Keavy Smart and Gresham Young have the best secret—trying to keep quiet is half the fun and zipped lips means none of the crew is the wiser.

And a sneaky peek…

 

Keavy stumbled into the rec area the next morning. "Why is the good coffee in here and not the mess?" After pouring a large mug, she turned to find Gresh cleaning up the mess from the previous night.

Taking a large, bracing gulp of the life-giving brew, she set the cup aside and went to assist him, grabbing a broom on the way.

He dragged the trash can around the table, scooping napkins and snack containers into the bin. Glancing up, he lifted in chin in greeting.

Keavy pulled two chairs out and shoved the broom under the table. "I'm sorry I kind of left you hanging last night." She paused a moment. "How bad did it get?" Knowing the players, she had no doubt they kept the attack going.

Gresh snorted. "Could've been worse. I only stayed for two more hands." He put the trash can back along the wall and started gathering the glasses. "They were sorely disappointed that I didn't provide any planet-shattering secrets about my sex life." He rolled his eyes and went to grab a washcloth from the sink.

Keavy's lips twitched. "Unlike Mark, Lara, and Masha. I mean, who saw that coming?" Certainly not her.

Then again, she didn't begrudge the trio or anything. In fact, she'd own being just a bit jealous. Sometimes having a healthy fantasy life really got in the way of what reality offered. She didn't want to settle for anything less than what her imagination conjured. Didn't help that her fantasy man stood less than three feet away.

Sweeping the litter from the floor into a dustpan, Keavy made a quick decision to test the waters. "Weird how we're the only two who got called out for not being loud." She dumped the trash in the bin. "Do you have a super-secret hookup spot? Or, unless I miss my guess, you really aren't hooking up with anyone right now?" Sort of like her at the moment.

She'd be thrilled if he didn't have a regular outlet. Not that he'd be short on supply. Women and men talked about him.

This is a fun romp to write. I love the vibe between Keavy and Gresh and seeing where that's going to take them.

 

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

ML Skye