Sunday Snippet: Stripped to the Skin

I'm still working on getting my side project ready to go. At this point, I have no idea how long it will last but I'm going to go like gangbusters until I can't anymore.

Had a solid week of work. Finished up a copy edit and started a new one. Also worked on a developmental edit that's been simmering on the back burner. I have three projects lined up and I'm waiting on deposits to get rolling on those. Hopefully, December is going to be a steady month of work.

Had a very good week of viewing. I made it through my usual round of shows and started looking for a former fave to rewatch but it's not readily available. Might have to dig out my ripped DVDs and hunt around for one of my old players.

I caught two episodes of The Batman this week. No Justice League cameos in these two. Strictly Robin and Batgirl, which I enjoyed.

Also watched two episodes of Classic Rugrats. Both were single episodes instead of the standard two or three vignettes. Preschool and Halloween featured and were a lot of fun to watch.

Enjoyed another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. I'd seen most of this one and liked it the first time around. Very fun to get some background on the detective.

Finished out the first season of London Kills with an episode-length behind the scenes look at the series. Lots of fun to see the actors talk about their characters and see how the showrunners also make the city of London a character.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise. I liked the mystery in this one and enjoyed the crab cooking contest. Not completely sold on Marlon as the new police officer but I'll probably end up enjoying him.

Finished up the second half of Silent Witness and, boy, there were a lot of twists in this one. Really loved Jack declaring his love for Nikki at the end. So nice to see them have a happy moment.

Watched an episode of Elementary and rather enjoyed it. Of course, it ended on a cliffhanger, and I have no doubt Mycroft is involved in something nefarious. I truly hope involving Joan blows up in his face.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Stripped to the Skin, a novella that brings a couple together during a tense moment in isolation.

Here's the miniblurb:

Kaley Pick and Dax Christopher are trapped in an isolation chamber when a ship wide power outage occurs. The temperature rises and they have to strip to the skin—a perfect time to consummate their growing attraction—except they're not alone. A junior officer is stuck with them and he's not dealing well with the heat.

And a sneaky peek…

Lose the pants. Right. How many times had he wanted to hear something similar coming from Kaley's mouth?

More than he'd admit. And holy shit, she looked incredible standing her bra and hipster briefs. Glistening like she'd just had sex … her hair mussed up. How many times had he imagined what she'd look like after a romp in bed. Again … more than he'd ever admit.

Gah!

He shoved his pants off and kicked them across the floor. Kaley started to say something then stopped, her mouth hanging open. Her gaze zeroed in on his crotch. His dick fought the confines of his knit boxers, making a large and noticeable bulge.

Kaley's eyes widened a little. "Oh, my." She fanned the front of her face.

Dax huffed out a breath. "Exactly. This is why I didn't want to strip down. Anyone with eyes will see the same thing you do." A massive hard-on.

Kaley didn't take her gaze from his groin when she slowly made her way toward him. She stopped inches away and tentatively traced her finger over the ridge of his cock. She didn't remain unfazed. Her nipples puckered under the fabric of her bra.

Her tongue shot out to moisten her lower lip. "Damn, that's going to be a—pardon the pun—big problem." Her palm cupped his erection.

Dax grunted. "If you keep handling it, it's only gonna get bigger." He waited a beat. "The problem, I mean." He kind of enjoyed the play on words.

Kaley glanced up through her lashes. "Maybe we should find a resolution to this situation." Her gaze darted around the space. "Over here. Come on." She led him to the small alcove used for vaccinations and pushed the fabric-covered partition around to block them from view.

Dax cocked his head to one side. "How do you see this working when it's like a hundred and ten degrees in here?" Perspiration dripped off him.

Kaley's lips curved. "Trust me when I say neither of us will last long. I'm not just hot from the temperature." She turned and grasped the edge of the sink with one hand then pushed her hipster panties down with the other revealing a perfectly shaped ass.

This didn't match any of the fantasies he'd had about her, but he didn't care at the moment.

He swallowed hard. "Shit. Apologies in advance for how quick this will be." He freed his dick and nudged the head between her legs.

Kaley shot a quick look over her shoulder. "Not gonna hear me complain … unless you keep me waiting." She pushed her butt back, so the tip of his shaft slid along her folds.

Dax thrust forward, sliding in so deep he had to bite back a moan.

Perfection … regardless of the crazy circumstances. One time wouldn't be enough. He would definitely want more…

So much fun writing this one. Dax and Kaley didn't really pick this moment to test the waters for a relationship. The moment pretty much picked them.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Strategic Wagers

It's been a wild week of big letdowns in my area of the universe. I'm not sure where things will land but I have decided to launch my side project sooner than expected. More details to follow in a separate blog post.

I started a new work project and picked up with one that's been on the back burner. I also tentatively scheduled three new projects for November. Here's hoping they all pan out.

Had a pretty good week of viewing. I got most of my current slate of shows watched. But … I also got distracted by *waves at everything going on right now*.

I caught an episode of The Batman and rather enjoyed the Green Lantern guest spot. Also enjoyed having one of Batman's rogues nose his way into the storyline.

Watched another episode of Classic Rugrats and it was the Rugrat's Kwanzaa. I'll have to find the other Rugrats holiday episodes and get ready to rewatch.

Enjoyed another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. It featured a behind-the-scenes look at a theater show, which is fun for me because my daughter majored in theater for undergrad.

Caught the first season finale of London Kills and, wow, some twisty-twists and big turns happened. Looking forward to a behind-the-scenes special this week.

Watched the season ten opener of Death in Paradise. I'm still annoyed by DI Parker and sad to see Ruby no longer with the team. Thrilled to bits to have Florance back. Looking forward to seeing more.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness. Terrific guest stars in this episode. I'm very interested in seeing where this case goes.

Enjoyed most of an Elementary episode. I'll get it finished up today and start over with a new run of my current episodes.

That's pretty much it for this week's life update. Tonight's post is from Strategic Wagers, a sexy short that brings a couple together over a series of bets.

Here's the miniblurb:

Onyx West and Lev Thorogood, friends and fellow crewmates, have the best kind of friendly rivalry. But when Onyx decides she can best Lev at a game of strategy, something he rarely loses, she pulls out all the stops to win.

And a sneaky peek…

"Dialing it back and taking some time. A novel concept." Onyx flopped back on her rack and swung her legs inside the berth. "And one I've got almost zero experience with." She pulled the curtain so she could focus on her thoughts.

Onyx didn't quite know what to make of Lev Thorogood. He had all the right moves. Great pilot. Incredible physique. Strong in the brains department.

And he appeared to have a solid interest in her. The last bit completely threw her. She had crap-all luck with guys. Her winning streaks only lasted at the card table. Men never took the time to figure her out.

She rolled over onto her stomach and pushed the pillow under her chin. "Instead, guys go for the fast lay and hot sex." She could live with that … hell, she obliged them more often than not.

But why didn't they ever try for more? Just because she didn't dump her life story out or put her personal life on display didn't mean she had no worth.

Some day she'd meet someone who'd want to listen and take the time to get to know her. The real her. Not the one hidden behind bravado. Onyx kept people at arm's length until she thought they could be trusted. It didn't always work to her advantage. She got labeled with tags like bitch and ball buster on a regular basis.

The thing about Lev… "He doesn't get pissed when I play counterpoint to his point." Nope … he'd study her for a few moments then ask why.

Or … if it happened to be a hot-button topic, he'd walk away until they had time to speak with cooler heads. She respected the hell out of him for that.

She sighed. "But he never makes a move." Sexual tension pinged back and forth between them, but he kept his hands to himself.

Onyx snorted. "I can't decide if it pleases or insults me." She leaned toward pleased.

But how long would her patience last? She'd have to wait and see when it went up against slow progress and taking some time. But maybe … the dialing it back thing would be worth the wait. She wanted someone to take an interest in her … and Lev certainly seemed to be willing to dig deeper instead of only scratching the surface.

The funny part? The one thing she didn't plan on when she found a guy who might put some effort into knowing her? Her being the one that wanted to move things along at a faster pace.

I'm having a lot of fun with this one. Onyx and Lev are well-matched but very different.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Steamed

November is starting off with a wild trajectory. The election in the US is taking up a lot of air and space in my life and I'm okay with that. It does make it harder to focus on anything but the election, which isn't optimal for my work projects.

That said, I'm weirdly calm and very hopeful. Which is not to say I'm complacent because that would be stupid and reckless. There's going to be a lot of work to do regardless of who wins the presidency, senate, and house.

My tricky manuscript turned extremely challenging, but I finally got it finished up late last night. Now I can focus on a couple of projects that were simmering on the back burner and start two new ones that need attention.

Had an okay week of viewing. Trick or treat night took up some time and an unexpected accident involving my oldest and his fiancé needed my attention. Thankfully, both are okay and weren't injured in the crash.

I started the week with an episode of Elementary and I also ended the week with one. Both were enjoyable. I thoroughly enjoy the vibe when Sherlock tries to coordinate outfits for Joan. So far, it looks like she ditches those in favor of choosing her own.

Caught an episode of The Batman and enjoyed it. Nice to see Batgirl back in action. I'll be finished with this show at the end of this season and I'm not sure what I'll be replacing it with.

Also watched an episode of Classic Rugrats. The three vignettes were new to me again. I think I'm going to shift back to the new Rugrats once I'm through this season.

Enjoyed another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. I'd seen most of this one before and really enjoyed the snappy and snarky dialog between the characters.

Caught another episode of London Kills and, whew, I got spoiled for what would happen and it still freaked me out. Really like this series.

Finished up season nine of Death in Paradise. Looking forward to season ten even with some of my misgivings with DI Parker. I love this show enough to give him time to grow on me.

Enjoyed the second half of Silent Witness. The show managed to surprise me, and I love it when that happens. One thing to note … I'm always curious about where Jack and Nikki live. Jack had such a cool house during the last season and now he seems to be in a townhouse of some sort. This is after he bought the fixer-upper that his dad and brother (for a while) shared with him. Weird stuff makes me curious.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Steamed, a sexy short that puts a couple together on a long-range mission.

Here's the miniblurb:

Page Wagner and Gannon Bendis pull long range recon duty and Page decides they need to play truth or strip. After several days of sexy banter, Gannon has enough of Page's innuendo and confronts her … in the shower.

And a sneaky peek…

He might be a keeper.

Page liked him. Gannon had sucked her in with the ripped body, but he had a great personality too. The combination turned her on.

She stalled for a little time. "Gotta shuffle first." She split the deck and filed the cards together.

She'd been with guys whose looks were all they had. Pretty, beautiful men that couldn't do much more than see past their own reflections. And … she'd slept with men whose sense of humor, intelligence, and style drew her attention. Maybe she wouldn't put them in the handsomest or sexiest category, but they were appealing just the same. Her equal opportunity policy extended to sex, too.

But she rarely had the perfect-storm combination of brains and brawn.

Gannon had the highest test score in the squadron. Which she discovered when she snuck a peek at the roster for the mission. She'd rather know up front if she got paired with a dud that would suck any kind of joy out of the mission … or … if she got lucky and landed someone interesting like Gannon.

She wondered how far she could push things with him.

If the universe aligned the way she hoped, all the way to the brink and possibly over. If the stars weren't in her corner, she'd at least enjoy some lively conversation and discussion. Her gut said they'd find a perfect vibe.

Slapping the deck on the small table, she nudged the stack toward him. "By all means, please, go ahead."

He split the cards then leaned back, crossing his arms over his chest.

She put the two piles back together and nodded. "You first."

He turned the top card over revealing a seven of hearts.

Page smirked. "Ah, well, you've got a fifty-fifty chance of me drawing a lower card." But she doubted she would.

Her luck didn't run that way … with a deck of cards.

I love to write variations on a theme, and this is one of my favorite tropes.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Stealing Hannah

The end of October is nigh and, man, it's been a month. Between work projects and personal life stuff, time flew by fast. Helped my oldest kidlet move some things from their old place to their new one and also took him for a job interview. Happy to say he got an offer and should start sometime soon. Also looking forward to trick or treat night and then gearing up for the holidays.

Happy to say the areas where I had my extractions are finally healed up enough that I can eat most types of food. I'm still careful with anything hard and crunchy but otherwise normal intake isn't a challenge anymore.

Stayed busy with work. Have a tricky manuscript that's kind of giving me fits with continuity and consistency concerns, which makes the edit slow way down. Sent off a couple of quotes for upcoming projects and look forward to getting started on those.

Had a decent week of viewing. I made it through a full round of my shows but kind of in backward order. Will probably have the same thing this week.

Started off with an episode of Elementary and thoroughly enjoyed it. Nice to see Lastrade get back on track. Interesting twisty case also.

Caught an episode of The Batman and enjoyed it. Always like seeing the Flash in action. I remembered most of this episode also.

Enjoyed an episode of Classic Rugrats and only remembered one of the vignettes. The other two were either new to me or memory holed.

Watched another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder. I do remember bits of this one and I’m glad I got to see the whole thing from start to finish.

Caught another episode of London Kills and I like how the new cases play into the overall case of the disappearance of David's wife. Looking forward to seeing how this season ends.

Enjoyed another episode of Death in Paradise. Loved the case because it's fun to see a bit of Ruby's past mixed in with the present. I enjoy her interactions with Commission Patterson. Gotta say, I'm not sure I enjoy Neville Parker. I appreciate the fact he's very different from the previous three DIs but … the constant afflictions are, well, annoying.

On a side note, I discovered there's a second spinoff of this show that's set in Australia. I'm looking forward to seeing it when it's available in the US.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and it's terrific to see Jack's niece take a role in the Lylle. Looking forward to the second half of this episode.

Another side note … most of the cast from Battlestar Galactica is in Chicago for the twentieth anniversary of the show. I've been poking around all weekend to stay up to date on what's happening at the convention. My mind is completely blown that it's been twenty years since the premiere of the series. It's still probably my all-time favorite show.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Stealing Hannah, a novella that has one of my favorite tropes to write … meeting the wrong brother first.

Here's the miniblurb:

Hannah Keane gets caught between Kane and Trent Canterman when their sibling rivalry heats up. Kane loves to push his brother's buttons by telling everyone Trent likes to steal girlfriends. When Kane introduces Trent to Hannah, Trent decides stealing Kane's girl is a good idea to settle the score once and for all.

And a sneaky peek…

Hannah looked up from her desk, a look of pleasant surprise on her face. "What are you doing here, Trent?"

"That's Lieutenant to you, Junior Grade."

Hannah raised a brow. "Okay … Lieutenant." She sat up straighter. "Doesn't make the question less valid. What are you doing here?"

Trent leaned in close, purposefully invading her personal space. "I have to have a reason?"

Hannah sat back, putting some open distance between them. "We just met last night, and you show up here this morning? Yeah, you've got a reason."

Trent pasted a sardonic smile on his face. "In that case, you can tell me how my little brother is doing." He lifted a brow.

Hannah snorted. "Don't you really want to ask if I'm letting him skate through class because he fucks me whenever I want?"

Crude and right to the point. He had to give her points for that.

He flicked his gaze downward. "Are you?"

Hannah rose and this time she leaned in close to him. "I don't base my grade on how well my students perform in bed."

Trent quirked a brow. "So, Kane's not the first, then?"

Hannah's eyes went flat. "Not your business." She couldn't quite keep the sneer off her face when she added, "Sir."

Trent didn't back off. "Kane's my brother." As if that explained everything.

Hannah narrowed her gaze. "He's old enough to whip it out, Lieutenant. That means he's old enough to know the score."

Trent didn't like the answer. "And what exactly is the score with you, Hannah?"

"That's Lieutenant, j.g. Keane, Sir."

Trent smirked. "Touché. Junior Grade." He quite enjoyed the verbal sparring.

Hannah's lips twitched. "The score is, I like your brother. And until I don't, you've got nothing to worry about."

Trent considered Hannah. Her words, her demeanor. And decided she spoke the truth. Maybe his brother wouldn't get a free pass.

Relieved, Trent relaxed. "And his class work? What's the score there?"

Hannah sat back down. "He does okay. Struggles a little but works hard." She raised her gaze. "He pushes himself to match you."

Trent snorted. "That's the old man's doing. He thought sibling rivalry was a good thing." Trent shrugged. "It's not that big a deal." Except Kane made it one…

Hannah abruptly changed gears on him. "Have I answered each question to your satisfaction, Sir?" She stood up. "Class starts in five."

Trent backed up and gave her room to come around the desk. His goal hadn't been to piss her off, so he played his safe card. "I don't have a score sheet, Lieutenant. You're his instructor and he's my brother. I had to check it out."

Hannah shrugged. "Whatever. I get it. But he'll do what he wants. You should know that."

Trent rolled his eyes. "Believe me, I do." He stuck out his hand. "No offense intended."

She juggled her course books and shook. "None taken." She gripped his hand hard when he went to pull away. "Not much anyway."

Point made.

He offered an olive branch. "Have you been in the new Mach VII yet?" When she shook her head back and forth, he dangled the bait. "Wanna give it a go?" His lips lifted in a smile.

Hannah tilted her head sideways. "Are you serious?"

Trent lost his grin. "I don't joke about flying new prototypes."

She considered a moment. "Then hell, yes. I'd love to get my hands on it." Her face lit up at the prospect.

Trent walked with her to the door. "I'll let you know as soon as I arrange it."

She nodded and headed for class. Trent watched her stride down the corridor, cocky and confident.

He found himself relishing the challenge she presented.

I have fun writing verbal sparring and Trent and Hannah are very good at shooting barbs.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Star Chasers

Had a less than productive week after having two teeth extracted. It's strange because they really weren't difficult to remove—well, one of them ended up being a little harder than the other—but it still threw me off. I think because they were on opposite sides with one on top and the other on the bottom, which made eating a tad challenging.

I also took time away on Friday to meet my daughter so we could do early voting. Very happy to have that done! I voted to raise my taxes for the school and emergency services levies.

Work stayed busy with some cleanup on two drafts and two copy edits. I also checked changes on two proofreads. Those were kind of dropped in on the fly.

Didn't quite make a full round of my usual shows this week, but I did get through about half.

Watched another episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder and it was one I'd seen at least part of. Thoroughly enjoyed this one.

Caught another London Kills and I'm liking this show. The overarching mystery of what happened to the DCI's wife folded into the two cases is interesting to me. I'm a little worried about the trainee DC. Things could go really sideways for her if she's not careful.

Enjoyed another Death in Paradise episode. I kind of feel like this is the season where Commissioner Patterson gets a lot more screen time. This isn't necessarily a bad thing. I enjoy him.

Finished the second half of Silent Witness and, whoo boy, what a ride this two-parter was. I'm going to be very interested in seeing if there's any fallout from everything that went down.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Star Chasers, which will probably end up being the series or duology's name … but I haven't quite decided yet.

Here's the miniblurb:

Marnie Ritoli, a kick-ass mechanic for the premier team in the galaxy, is presented with a dilemma: choose a new mate or leave the Chasers. But Marnie knows Luce Carrington isn't dead, and she won't play second fiddle to anyone, so she does what she's best at and finds a loophole in the league rules, picking Luce's best friend … the person who backs her into a corner in the first place.

And a sneaky peek…

Marnie breezed into Win's lounge and made her announcement. "I choose you."

Win looked up from his accounting books. "What?" Confusion marred his handsome face.

Marnie reached behind her and pushed the door shut. She had a feeling things might get a wee bit loud in the next few moments.

Walking closer to the desk, she repeated. "I pick you. As my mate." She crossed her arms and waited for the explosion.

Win tossed his pen on the desk and rose slowly. He leaned forward, getting a good look at her very serious face. Opened his mouth, closed it and shook his head.

"Are you insane?"

Pretty much the reaction she expected. "Nope. You're all mine, big man." She bit the inside of her cheek to keep from saying more.

Win rounded the desk and grabbed her arms. "You can't pick me, Marnie. It's not allowed."

She raised a brow. "Yeah, I can. League rules state I can choose whomever I want, as long as they're not attached to anyone else." She looked around behind him. "You hiding a woman under the desk, Win?" She knew the moment she had him, his eyes went flat and cagey.

He let go and stepped back. "You know I'm not. And you know why." He perched his ass on the edge of the desk. "As president, I'm free to do whomever I want, whenever I want." He gave her a determined stare. "It's gonna stay that way."

Marnie snorted. "No. It's not." She crossed her arms in front of her again. "I checked the charter. That's not a stipulation for this crew."

He shot up. "Son of a bitch, Marnie. It's accepted as one."

She shrugged. "Not anymore. I'm taking you out of play." She almost hated being evil about it.

Win snarled and raked his hand over his head. "You bitch." He spun around and paced back and forth.

Marnie winced but stood her ground. He couldn't deny her request. Not when he'd put her on the spot to make it.

Win turned and faced her, a calculating edge to his voice. "Fine. I'm out of play." He prowled toward her. "And you'll be ready and willing when I decide to collect on my rights to your tasty and tempting treats, yeah?" He trailed a finger down her arm.

She'd known he'd try to brazen it out and threaten her with that one.

She smiled sweetly. "You can give it your best shot." Her hands smoothed down his chest. "But if you do … you can expect my size eight boot up your ass…" She cupped her hand between his legs. "And this big dick of yours in a vice." She lifted her gaze to his. "Don't think it won't happen."

Win swallowed and stepped away. "Why?"

She prepared an answer for that one, too. "Because you put me in a corner. I'm returning the favor." Emotion clogged her throat when she choked the words out.

Win sighed, beaten. "Damn you." He sank down on the edge of the desk.

She'd won the battle, which didn't make her feel better. Only Luce could do that. But … with her point made and status safe, Marnie headed for the door.

Before she opened it, she turned back. "You should already know that without Luce, damned is exactly what I am." Her hand twisted the knob, and she exited the lounge, dejected and depressed … probably only a little bit less than Win at the moment.

I'm so excited about this two-book story. It's going to get a little messy, but I'm having a lot of fun planning this one out.

 

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

 

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Specter's Masquerade (a Specter Station novella)

A weird week of chilly weather and lots of cleaning projects. I'm at that place where the clutter is driving me bonkers, but I don't have enough hours in the day to really focus on a good cleanout. So … I'm tackling small areas to at least make a little progress.

Lots of work projects landing in my inbox. A few have been quick turnarounds, which I enjoy. I love having a project that I can finish up in a few hours. That type of work helps when I also have three difficult manuscripts that challenge my brain and one that requires a lot of focus.

Had a solid week of viewing. I'm still trying to finish up an episode of Peak Practice, but I made it through a full round of shows.

Started with Mr. and Mrs. Murder, an Australian mystery series. I've seen several episodes but not in order and I'm looking forward to watching this one from beginning to end. Thoroughly enjoyed the first episode, which I had not seen.

Also started a new-to-me British crime drama called London Kills. Loved the first episode and look forward to watching this series.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise introducing the new DI. Enjoyed the interaction between the commissioner and his new lead detective. Interesting to have someone Patterson doesn't particularly like as part of the team.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness. I'm intrigued by the premise of this one. I thought the episode felt a little disjointed and I'm hoping the initial murder somehow ties into the other two. Kind of happy to be guessing on this one.

Watched a fun episode of Elementary with the return of Lestrade. I love the actor, so I love the character. Plus, he's much less annoying than Mycroft.

Enjoyed an episode of The Batman. Finally got a return of Batgirl. I'd forgotten Firefly powered up in a big way and almost blew up Gotham. Great episode.

Caught another new-to-me episode of Classic Rugrats. I'm not a great fan of the three-vignette format but I do have a lot of love for this series.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Specter's Masquerade, a novella that brings a couple together on a space station days before a huge gala.

Here's the miniblurb:

Juna Newberry starts her new position as head of security on the Specter Spacestation under fire. She walks into the job two days before the biggest gala event of the solar year, a threat is made on the personnel, including the principal owner of the station, Maddox Specter, all while fighting her attraction for the sexy entrepreneur.

And a sneaky peek…

Maddox still wanted to do bodily harm to every member on his board, but he couldn't fault their choice. After spending half the day with Juna, his confidence in her ability to seamlessly step into the position soared. He loved her sharp mind. Hell, he loved everything about her.

Sitting back while she read through her final notes, he envisioned the type of costume he'd provide. She wore a no-nonsense ponytail, with her hair pulled sleekly back from her face. His fingers itched to pull the holder off so he could see the burnished brunette tresses settled over her shoulders, hopefully bare. She had great bone structure with nicely proportioned curves her uniform couldn't hide. Not that the standard issue garment did spectacular things for her, but his active imagination had no trouble filling in the details.

She glanced up and caught him gazing in her direction.

She quirked a brow. "Do I have something on my face?" Her gaze traveled down. "Or on my uniform?"

His lips twitched. Juna focused primarily on work, but provided flashes of humor, too. He'd love working with her professionally and hoped like hell to wrangle something on a personal level, too.

Even if the timing sucked and probably couldn't be worse. Juna Newberry drew his interest like no woman had in a long time.

She cleared her throat. "Mr. Specter?"

He shook his head. "Maddox, please. Save the Mr. Specter for official use only." Why not test the waters?

Juna set the notepad aside. "Okay, I'm sensing something more than employer-employee in your tone. Am I mistaken?" She paused a moment. "Because, if not, I'd prefer if you were direct and even blunt." Folding her hands in her lap, she held his gaze.

Maddox cut to the chase. "You're not wrong. I'm a driven man and know what I want." He waited a beat. "I want a piece of you." Stopping for a moment, he went on. "I realize I'm out of line here, but I don't believe in mincing words either." He rather hoped he wouldn't get a punch to the jaw for his brutal honesty.

Juna exhaled on a long breath. "Okay, I respect having things out in the open but, yeah, out of line and crappy timing." She glanced away, inhaled deeply, then turned back and pinned him with her gaze. "Can we talk about our mutual attraction after the masquerade so I can stay on task and up to speed without big distractions?"

The words tumbled out of her mouth at a rapid pace all on the one drag of air she'd taken in.

Maddox cocked his head to one side. "Of course. But to be clear, you did say mutual attraction, right?" He should leave well enough alone, but the impulse to push for clarity wouldn't let him.

Juna gave a terse nod. "I did. But I won't—can't—think about it right now. I need to get back to my team and start doing my job." She ended any additional chance for banter by rising from her seat. "Which I'll do right now." Smoothing the creases from her uniform, she shot him a grin. "It's been an extraordinarily interesting start to my tenure with Specter Station." With a wink, she turned and exited his office.

Maddox leaned back in his chair and put his hands behind his head. His board might be the bane of his existence, but they'd done him a good turn by bringing Juna Newberry into his orbit.

A wide smile crossed his face. Paul Edwards would shoot stardust out of his ass when Maddox thanked him for the wonderful treat.

I love this series! There are three more books featuring Maddox's friends and I really hope I can get their stories launched within the next year.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Something New

October is starting off on something of a down note. But it's spooky season and that makes me very happy.

Received some sad news this morning about one of my current authors. He had a rare form of brain cancer and passed peacefully yesterday. I'm so glad I got to know him and his story, which I hope we'll be able to share with others.

I ended up having a decent week with work projects and managed to get some other things done along with a good bit of writing. Have one manuscript almost finished up and I'm excited to get it out in the world.

Pretty good week of viewing also. I managed to make it all the way through my current roster of shows and got one that simmers on the back burner most of the time mostly watched.

Started the week with the season finale of My Life Is Murder and thoroughly enjoyed the episode. So great to kind of have some closure for Alexa's cycle of grief. I loved how the two-part episode played out.

Caught DI Jack's last episode of Death in Paradise. Really enjoyed his sendoff and look forward to the new DI's introduction in the next episode. Really have to thank my sister-in-law for recommending this show.

Finished up the second half of Silent Witness. The episode took a turn I didn't expect and that always makes me happy. For a show that's been running for twenty-seven seasons being able to surprise the audience—or at least me—is excellent.

Watched an episode of Elementary and quite liked it. It's fun to watch Sherlock and Joan navigate their living together and it's really awesome to see Joan stepping out and solving some of Sherlock's cold cases.

Enjoyed an episode of The Batman with Green Arrow featuring as the Justice League character. This ended up being a pretty decent episode even without an appearance by Batgirl again.

Caught an episode of Classic Rugrats. Some more new-to-me vignettes. Enjoyed all three.

Also got most of the way through a Peak Practice episode, which is the one that simmers on the back burner when I don't have time to do a full cycle of shows. Looking forward to finishing this one up.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Something New, a sexy short that gives a couple a chance to explore their relationship.

Here's the miniblurb:

The sex is always good between fellow fleet officers Margie Range and Eli Kennington, but Margie wants to try something new. The challenge? They're on a ship deep in the black and the position she wants to attempt needs a lot more space than is currently available, but she won't be denied.

And a sneaky peek…

Wow, she'd stunned him. Am I okay seeing her completely naked—and not in a shower? Hell, yes. His dick hardened even more, and his fingers itched to touch every inch of her.

He gave a jerky nod. "Uh, yeah. Very okay." He made a move to start on his pants, but Margie shook her head.

She pointed to his shoes, which he toed off and kicked pushed off to the side. His hands went back to his waistband, but she twisted her head back and forth again. Then she stepped forward, trailing a finger from his sternum to his fatigues.

She grasped his wrists. "I want the honors." She popped the button and glanced up. "I'll return the favor." Pushing the fabric past his hips, she waited until stepped out and kicked them aside.

Margie rocked back on haunches and ran her gaze over him, starting at his feet, traveling upward. Naked and exposed, he let her look her fill, even though a vulnerable sting of uncertainty slithered down his spine. Could she possibly find him lacking. When her tongue darted out to wet her lips, his confidence soared. Only the bobbing of his erection made the experience uncomfortable.

Margie met his gaze. "Damn, you're incredible." Her eyes went dark and sexy.

He flashed a smile. "I'm feeling pretty good right now. You have that effect on me." She always did.

She rolled up to her knees and leaned in, grasping the back of his thighs, sliding her hands up to cup his ass. "I love everything about you." Her tongue swirled around the tip of his cock. "And I finally get to taste you." Sliding her lips over his length, she sucked him deep into her mouth.

Eli's eyes slid closed. Warm heat surrounded his shaft, and she used the exact right amount of pressure when her head pulled back and moved forward again. Her fingers dug into butt cheeks and, if possible, his cock swelled more. Margie worked some kind of magic with her lips and tongue, and he resisted the urge to thrust deeper.

His fingers tangled in her hair. Being naked while she still had all her clothes on heightened the tension building at the base of his spine. He fed the desire by exploring her scalp with his fingertips. Margie brought one hand forward and fondled his balls. Eli lost the tenuous thread of his control and groaned, spilling his release into her mouth.

Margie eased away and gave him a crooked smile. "You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that." She accepted his outstretched hand and slowly got to her feet.

Eli blinked to clear the pinpoints of pleasure still exploding behind his eyelids. "That … was … amazing." The high from getting off surged along his veins.

And he really wanted to give her the same euphoria.

Having fun writing this one. Giving a couple room to go deeper with their relationship is such a good time.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Sibling Rivalry

What an end to the month. Our weather has been wet and drippy for most of the week. Not complaining because we needed the rain. Of course, the dreary stuff hits the week of our county fair, which is my husband's favorite time of year. Then again, a little water falling from the sky won't deter him from going or enjoying himself.

Work finally slowed down a little and I had some time to catch my breath. I have a new copy edit and proofread combo I'm working on and should have a new project starting this week. I'm also expecting more on the developmental edit I've been working on. And … a project I had a hand in is finally uploaded for proof … after almost four and half years of rewrites and revisions. I'm so excited!!

Had several really great conversations with my daughter this week. I love hearing her ideas of what she wants from the future. This young woman has a good head on her shoulders and I'm so proud of her. Graduate school is opening her mind and eyes and I'm excited to see what she does.

Not a bad week of viewing. The time to catch my breath also gave me a bit of freedom to catch up on my slate of shows. I made almost a full round this week!

Caught two behind-the-scenes vignettes for Signora Volpe. I always enjoy seeing and hearing how things work and what the actors think about their show.

Watched an episode of Death in Paradise and enjoyed it. This is one I hadn't seen before, and I loved the way the mystery played out.

Started a new season of Silent Witness. Very interesting premise and I'm looking forward to the conclusion next week. I'll be starting Beyond Paradise after I finish the new season.

Enjoyed an episode of Elementary. It's interesting to watch Sherlock serve as an AA sponsor. And I really like Watson kind of stepping out on her own to solve a cold case.

Finished up the second part of the season four premier of The Batman. Kind of forgot Batgirl didn't really feature in these opening episodes. I think she makes a return later in the season.

Also caught an episode of Classic Rugrats. I only remembered one of the vignettes, so I enjoyed seeing the other two.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Sibling Rivalry, a novella that brings a couple together after they have a less than stellar beginning.

Here's the miniblurb:

When Fayne Cartier falls for his brother's flight instructor, Rumor Child, he has no idea how difficult dating will end up being when his brother shows signs of not having the chops to qualify. Rumor won't cut him from her class thinking the sibling rivalry may be just what the younger Cartier needs.

And a sneaky peek…

Fayne blinked at the vision walking toward him. "I knew she'd rock civilian clothes." Frankly, even in uniform, she blew him away.

But tonight, she'd gone for some kind of casual glamour. She'd paired a form-fitting T-shirt with a flowing cardigan that fell to her knees. Her pants were made from something soft and hugged her curves. A pair of suede booties with a slight heel and some understated jewelry completed the outfit.

She gave him a tentative smile when he stood to pull her chair out. "You clean up nice." Her gaze showed keen appreciation.

His crisp button-down and dark-twilled pants had been a last-minute decision, but he'd wanted to make it clear he wanted to spend time with her as more than his brother's instructor.

Glad he'd put some effort into his attire, he leaned down. "And you look amazing." He settled back in his seat and smiled when the server immediately brought menus to the table.

Neither needed time to decide. Rumor ordered the baked steak dinner and Fayne went with his favorite chicken dumplings. Once they had their drink order, he opened the conversation with questions about time in flight school and they compared notes about their instructors. She mentioned using his stats, along with his dad's, as a goal to achieve. He regaled her with stories of trying not to live in his old man's shadow.

He carefully avoided mentioning his brother. He didn't want anything to ruin the evening.

Halfway through the meal, Rumor finally said something. "Are we really going to ignore the big specter in the room?" Her head tilted to one side in question.

Fayne lifted a shoulder. "I don't want to risk screwing this up." But she had a point.

Rumor smiled. "Gonna be hard to pursue something if we can't talk shop. If you're super uncomfortable with the idea, we'll have to skirt the issue."

Fayne hedged a little. "I'm not uncomfortable. I'd love to know how Renner is doing." Or possibly not doing.

Rumor quirked a brow. "Even if he proves you wrong?"

Fayne chuckled. "Definitely. But my gut is screaming Renner isn't cut out for flying." He waited a beat. "So … how's he doing so far?" He didn't know if he really wanted the answer.

Rumor's lips twitched. "Holding his own." She sobered. "But like you said, he won't face a true test until we get past the basics. He's absorbed everything he knows to date practically by osmosis. That will only take him so far."

Fayne couldn't fault the logic she used. "And if I'm right?" Would she accept defeat with as much grace as she'd handled everything else?

Rumor patted his hand. "You're getting a little ahead of things here. Let's cross that bridge when we get to it. Until then, my mind stays open." She brushed her thumb over his skin "The question is … can you leave it alone and let him pass or fail on his own?" She'd very nicely turned his question back on to him.

Fayne took a moment to consider his answer. "I'm willing to try." And he would stick to that promise.

Rumor flashed a grin. "Then you and I are off to a solid start."

Having some fun with this one. Rumor loves a good verbal sparring session and Fayne likes a woman who gives as good as she gets.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Set the Record Straight

September has been such a weird month. Our weather is all over the place—again—and we're baking in high temps. Also have a drought at the moment. I mean the grass crunches when I walk on it right now.

I think we have our car issues solved. Mine is back with a new computer and we did end up with a total loss on the CR-V. Found one to replace that and we're getting everything in order to finalize the purchase. Here's hoping that ends our car drama for a good, long time.

Another super busy work week. Finished up a project and started a new one. I'm in a holding pattern for two more and I may have a new client for some writing coaching. Very excited about my calendar right now!

Did not have a great week of viewing. Too many things distracting me and needing my attention. I might have to start doing playlists instead of television shows. If I do the playlist thing, be forewarned, I have very eclectic taste in music.

I did get an episode of The Batman watched by starting the fourth season. This introduced Superman to the roster, which also means Lex Luthor put in an appearance along with Lois and Jimmy.

Caught an episode of Classic Rugrats. All three vignettes were new to me, which is fun. I feel like I must have skipped several seasons though because I don't remember watching or rewatching several episodes that really stand out in my memory. Might have to check to see if I did.

Also started an episode of My Life Is Murder. This is a two-parter and looks to end the fourth season. Looking forward to finishing this one up and waiting patiently for a fifth season. Fingers crossed!

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Set the Record Straight, a novella that makes a couple face what they feel for each other.

Here's the miniblurb:

Keegan Brimm and Warner Misona check their feelings for each other at the spaceport airlock and have a knock down fight before they finally drag out all the baggage between them to set the record straight.

And a sneaky peek…

Keegan enjoyed the surprised look on his face. "Let's set the record straight again." She moved in, backing him up against the hatch. "From this point forward, it's not just up to me. I did the casual thing for so long because I wanted the business with Westcroft settled before pursuing anything." Her hands skimmed up along his chest. "But you made me see how empty and unsatisfying that was." Her fingers trailed downward to gather the hem of his shirt. "We were building a good foundation to work from, but that damned notification came in and sent me reeling." She inched his shirt up while grazing her lips along his jawline. "I'm over it. And I want this." Leaning back, she held his gaze. "As long as it's mutual and—"

His mouth claimed hers, cutting off the rest of her statement. Oh, good and holy universe. His lips were steamy goodness. Better than she remembered.

She tore her lips away from his. "You can trust this, Warner. I hope you believe that." She couldn't blame him if he didn't.

He cupped her face. "I do, Keegan. I do." He snagged the back of his collar and yanked his shirt off then helped her with hers.

Keegan loosened the button of her fatigues. "In that case … where were we?"

He gathered her close. "I think we were about to find a comfortable spot to get naked and consummate the agreement." His lips scorched a trail along her shoulder.

Keegan shoved her pants down. "Ah, yes." She kicked her feet free and strode to the cushioned bench. "Will this do?"

Warner shucked his pants. "I think it might."

He moved to stand beside her, and she nudged him down with the full intention of rocking his world with a blow job. But he surprised her by grasping her hips and trailing kisses around her navel. She gasped when he dipped his tongue into the indentation at the same time he slid a finger along her folds.

He moaned. "Mmm, Keegan … you're hot and wet."

Keegan's head fell back. "I get that way every time I'm around you." And sometimes even when not.

His eyes slid shut. "Don't tell me that. Now I'm going to picture you that way all the time."

She laughed and eased away. "I'm not going to be sorry about it." She dropped down to her knees. "But I will regret not getting at least a taste of this bad boy soon." She wrapped her hand around his impressive length and lowered her head.

This has been a fun story to write. I love to resolve misunderstandings with hot action.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Serving Justice (companion to Justice is Served)

Once again, Ohio weather is all over the place. But at least it hasn't been sweltering hot. Had setbacks with our cars. Mine is still not quite ready. The new engine computer the garage ordered didn't work so they got another one. Hopefully this week. My husband had a deer literally jump on top of his CR-V, shattering the windshield, knocking the rearview mirror off, and sending the driver's side mirror clear over to the passenger side floor. It even dented the top of the car up to the sunroof. I'm pretty sure it's a total loss. Luckily my husband is okay, aside from having a ton of glass all over him. He found glass all the way in the back of the vehicle.

Really busy work week. I finished up a copy edit and continued work on a developmental edit. Also started a new project that's not quite a developmental edit, but it is cleaning up a lot of formatting in a manuscript to get it ready for a copy edit, which a colleague is going to do. Had an exchange with a new author and hope to work with her in the future.

Semi-decent week of viewing. I didn't quite make a full round, mainly because I spent a lot of time on the phone trying to get the insurance sorted and line up a rental until we know for sure what's going on with the CR-V.

I did get an episode of My Life Is Murder in and thoroughly enjoyed it. Lots of twists and turns in this one. Once again, Madison stole the show. Also really cool to have indigenous representation for the storyline. And … more hints about Alexa's family. Here's hoping we'll see more of them.

I think I watched the finale of Signora Volpe, and it might have set up a future episode featuring Sylvia's ex. That would be a lot of fun. So awesome to see her niece again and getting to know her dad. Isabelle ended up stealing this episode. Going to watch the behind-the-scenes stuff next.

Finished up Best in Paradise with the first of the two-parter that set up Florance's exit. It was a great episode and very bittersweet as the actress mentioned when she introduced the episode.

Also caught another Death in Paradise and enjoyed the mystery. It's also fun to see Jack trying to move on from the loss of his wife. The awkward but awesome communication with Anna is lovely to watch.

Started an episode of Elementary but need to finish it this week. Too many distractions to get all the way through the show. It looks like a good one though.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's episode is from Serving Justice, a novella that's part of an experiment I'm doing with the other two pseudonyms. This is the sci-fi version of Justice Is Served.

Here's the miniblurb:

Jaxine Goodstone is an unwilling pawn in a battle for control of an asteroid field and its mining colony. When a control chip is activated in her, she executes the sitting board members then stumbles into the arms of Upton Viccars, a government agent sent to negotiate the mineral rights. When Jaxine has no memory of her actions, Upton suspects foul play and gradually earns Jaxine's trust—while slowly falling for her—and together they uncover a devious plot that leads back to her childhood in a group home for orphans.

And a sneaky peek…

Jaxine Goodstone stared at the bright light shining over her head, listening to the monotone voices of the doctor and his surgical assistant as they discussed the procedure they wanted to do. Her eyelids drooped and she hated the cold feeling of the fluid they were administering to her through the IV in her arm. The sterile antiseptic smell of the operatory made her nose itch. At twelve, she didn't understand the reason she needed to have surgery, but Dr. Leonardo Moon convinced the matron of the group home Jaxine would be forever changed by the treatment. Her foster brother Lem Falco said he'd be happy to stay at the hospital with Jaxine until the doctors cleared her to go home. At seventeen, he thought he deserved a chance to show his responsibility.

What a load of crap. But the matron apparently bought into his sincerity, because he'd come along with Jaxine.

"Jaxine, you're relaxed now and ready for the procedure. Do you understand?"

Jaxine automatically responded, "Yes, Dr. Moon."

"Good, good." He placed a rubber mask over her face and moved in closer. "Do you remember what we covered in our pre-op discussion?"

Jaxine nodded. "Yes, Dr. Moon."

"And what was that, Jaxine?"

She didn't hesitate with her answer. "I have to count backward from one hundred."

Dr. Moon smiled. "Good, Jaxine, very good." He lifted his surgical mask into place. "Please begin."

Jaxine began as instructed. "Ninety-nine, ninety-eight, ninety-seven…" A floaty sensation filled her, and she drifted along a sea of clouds.

Dr. Moon glanced up when someone else entered the room. "She's ready. You know what the parameters are once this is complete?"

Jaxine's eyes twitched and she tried to pay attention. Parameters for what? Did the matron know about this?

"I know exactly what the goal is. I'll make sure she carries through with the plan."

Lem? Why is he in the operating room?

Jaxine tried to voice the question, but her sluggish mind couldn't fight pull of the IV and the sedative gas from the mask. The conversation around her became muffled and distorted, and she finally gave in and drifted back with the fluffy, white clouds.

I love the concept for this story and it's a lot of fun to write similar books in three different genres. Looking forward to getting them out there in the universe.

 

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

ML Skye