Sunday Snippet: All Tied Up (Top Dog Pilots bonus)

I'm going to start with a doggo update. We thought our older doggo was doing better but, sadly, that wasn't the case. The vet took an aspirated sample of her lymph node, and the results came back as cancerous, probably MAST cell. The prognosis is never great for that diagnosis. But we planned to keep her comfortable and spend as much time as we could with her. Unfortunately, she took a turn for the worse and on November 7, we let her go to the great beyond. Hardest decision to make but she stopped eating and couldn't really afford to lose more weight than she already had. My heart hurts right now, but we're trying to ease the loss for our other doggo and that's been a blessing.

Obviously, even with everything going on with our dog, work continued. I finished up a proofread and have a new one scheduled for the upcoming week. I also have a couple of client calls and I'm excited about those. I'm in the middle of a copy edit for an opening book to a new series and it's going well.

I had an okay viewing week. I made it most of the way through my regular shows, with the exception of Lower Decks. I'll get back to it this week. I hope.

Finished up the second season of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. I love the Christmas in July episode so much. There's some subtle groundwork being laid for the final season and I appreciate being able to look back and see it.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. I really wanted to smash everyone working against Foyle in the face. The arrogance of the military spies grated hard on me this time around.

Beyond Paradise ended up being a lot of fun. I like the romance with Archie and Ester. And I love Humphrey and Martha with their fostering. I'm a little put out with the mom being so cagey. I get the why but it's annoying. I'm kind of hoping she ends up confiding in Zoe.

Watched another episode of Poirot and enjoyed it. I loved having him hoodwinked into solving a murder because an author wrote himself into a corner. And having the author kind of save the day was fun.

Elementary ended up being a great episode. I love Sherlock putting forth effort in his relationship and getting it wrong for the right reasons.

Enjoyed another episode of Batman Beyond. Loved Bruce and Max working together to find Terry. I had some vague memories of this one but didn't remember everything that happened.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from All Tied Up, a bonus short feature Max and Maggie from the Top Dog Pilots series.

Here's the miniblurb:

Maggie Harper has the man she wants and a job she loves. But sometimes she has to pull out all the stops to keep life interesting. And that means Max Cutter better be ready for whatever Maggie comes up with next.

And a sneaky peek…

Her mouth is bliss…

Cutter closed his eyes. "Always expect the unexpected from you but this…" He tested the limit of the sleeves again. "Being all tied up is something else." His breath hissed out when she all but inhaled his dick. "Geez, you're gonna kill me."

And he'd die happy.

Maggie slowly backed off his erection and met his gaze. "Get over it, Cutter." She sucked hard on the head. "You'll enjoy what I have planned." Gliding down to the base one more time, she slowly dragged her tongue along the underside of his length on the way back.

Letting go, and leaving his rigid flesh bobbing for more, she got to her feet and turned away from him. Her hands reached around and sensuously eased her tank upward, exposing her back to his gaze. With a flick of her wrist, she sent the garment sailing across their quarters. Angling her head around, her lips kicked up in a sexy smirk. Her fingers teased along the waistband of her shorts, inching the fabric down then pulling it back up. Her hips swayed to music only she could hear in her head. With another suggestive peekaboo, she lowered the bottoms halfway down her hips. Cutter bit back a groan … he loved her playful vibe as much as he wanted to be buried deep inside her.

Maggie finally dropped her shorts and shuttled them across the deck with a quick kick before she turned and faced him in her altogether. She prowled toward him with a hungry look in her eyes. Stopping just short of his knees, she put two fingers under his chin and tilted his head back.

Leaning in, she met his mouth in a quick hot kiss. "Time to deliver on my promise." Her head slanted and she caught his lips again.

Nudging him back against the cushions, she straddled his thighs and sank over his cock. He'd love to clasp her thighs and give her the ride of her life. Instead, he curled his fingers into his palms and flexed his hips as far as they'd go with his arms behind his back.

Maggie broke the kiss and grinned down at him. "I think I like this setup." She planted her hands on his shoulders and rocked her hips.

Cutter grunted. "This is me not complaining." He leaned forward and laved one taut nipple.

Maggie gasped. "Ahhh. I want more of that…" Her fingers dug into his skin.

Cutter smirked. "Whatever makes you happy…"

This is such a fun series, and I love writing Max and Maggie.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Drink Me

April 19, 2020

Crazy weather in Ohio this week. Warm, then cold and rainy, and then a little slushy snow mix thrown in. I can honestly say I'm kind of ready for spring to get here in full. At least having the option to go outside and enjoy some sun breaks things up a bit.

Not a big week for television but I got a few shows watched. I started with an episode of Arrow and I'll be getting ready to start the Crisis Crossover soon.

Caught the penultimate episode of Murdoch Mysteries. I'm sad about the death of a character I liked. I loved George's side story. I have no earthly clue what Julia is doing but I'm rolling along with the character arc to see where things go. I do like seeing the ups and downs of William and Julia.

Watched an episode of Riverdale and, wow, the batshit ramped up to double digits, which I love. I still hate Hiram with the burning passion of a thousand suns and gotta say the character kind of ruins the show for me. We'll see how this season shakes out but I honestly can't stand it when he's on the screen. I'm not sure how I feel about the Charles / Chick development but we'll see how that one plays out also.

Had a virtual watch party with a good friend and we rolled out The Rise of Skywalker. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie to bits. I'm hoping we'll get more of those in soon.

Started the second episode of Roswell, New Mexico's new season. So far, I'm enjoying but I really want Maria to finally be aware of the aliens. The fact she isn't really bugs me. So far, I'm not a huge fan of having Rosa back either.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Drink Me, a free read / bonus scene featuring the characters from One Hot Mess.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A bottle of alcohol takes on the role of perpetrator in a couple's romp-filled weekend. Both would swear the damn thing dared them to drink every last drop.

And a sneaky peek…

Eva tilted her head to one side and studied Van. "I'm surprised you bailed on the shindig." He didn't seem like a rule-breaker.

Van's lips kicked up in a half-grin. "Eh, the boss said we had to show up. He didn't specify how long we had to be there." He poured another round.

Eva gave a nod. "Quite the crush of partygoers. Hard to move around let alone have fun." She didn't enjoy the atmosphere when she couldn't breathe.

Van rolled his eyes. "Yeah. I'm not into the whole crowded room with loads of people I don't know thing. Sucks the life right out of me."

Something in common. Aside from the competitive streak they had. Eva like him.

Okay, she always had. But their rivalry tended to keep them at cross purposes. Actually, their bosses' were mostly responsible for that.

She drained the glass he'd refilled. "You know what? You're right. Much better to hang out with you. You're not half bad when you're relaxed and having a good time." She gave him a saucy smirk.

Van laughed. "You mean when I'm not all business and in your face?"

Eva snorted. "Exactly. We need to get away from that more often." Seriously, leaving the animosity and acrimony in the locker room sounded blissful right now.

Van paused with the tumbler close to his mouth. "Ditching the teammates and sneaking off? I could be down for doing that sometimes." He chugged the vodka.

Eva topped off the shot glasses again. "Good." She nodded toward the alcohol. "Drink up. The night is young and we're semi-incognito. Nobody knows we're supposed to be enemies in here." She tossed back the liquid again and loved the little burst of glee warming its way through her system.

Van toasted the air. "Here here." He made a satisfied hum when he set the tumbler back on the counter.

Man, he's hot when he makes that sound.

Right. The alcohol definitely dropped the blinders she normally wore around him.

And she didn't care one bit.

I love writing bonus scenes for stories. Eva and Vic are a lot of fun and writing the lead up to their morning after is a joy.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Banter and Brawling and Sex, Oh My

October 13, 2019

So far, October is a pretty good month. My daughter is on the homecoming court for the first time and is excited to participate in the annual parade coming up in a week or two. She'll be hosting her annual gathering next weekend and we've got a laundry list of stuff to get finished up before then.

Not a bad week for television. I started out with a Passionflix original, Brother's Honor and thoroughly enjoyed the movie. I'm excited to see the other two movies in this trilogy when they're available.

I also caught up on some Arrow, watching an episode from last season. I'll be a little behind when season eight premieres but I should be caught up soon.

Watched the first episode of Murdoch Mysteries's new season. This show is so much fun. I love the characters more each year.

For some reason, I missed the last two episodes of Frankie Drake Mysteries's second season. I got one episode watched and have the final one and the first three of this season to get caught up on.

I'm also catching up on Riverdale. I finished an episode and watched another full one. I haven't seen the premiere of season four yet, but I plan to have at least a full box of tissues handy when I do watch it.

I still haven't decided what I'll be picking up after Peter Gunn, but I'll be starting that this week.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Banter and Brawling and Sex, Oh My, a free sexy short that will eventually make it's way to my website and blog.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Max Cutter always goes along for the ride with Maggie Harper. He pretty much has to… she always gets into the most interesting situations and someone has to cover her ass.

And a sneaky peek…

Max Cutter followed his fellow pilot into the lounge on Spacestation Xulu. "Mags, I'll grab a table if you get the brews." His gaze dropped to her ass, admiring the view.

She shot him a look over her shoulder. "Yeah, yeah. Want me to walk really slow so you keep staring?" She smirked.

Cutter laughed and changed his direction to scope out the seating area. He found an empty table and dropped down on one of the chairs. Maggie brought two mugs of ale and placed one in front of Max.

She settled across the table from him. "I wish we didn't have to leave the transport. I could've used a nap." A yawn finished her statement.

Cutter nodded, his brain still a little bleary from hell week. "At least the second leg of our journey back to base is pretty much nonstop. I plan on being dead to the universe the whole time." Unless she wanted to get up close and personal again.

He still struggled to believe they'd had sex in a causeway of the space carrier.

Really good sex.

No, more like amazing and fantastic.

Maggie snapped her fingers in front of his nose. "Cutter. Stop it." She leaned in closer to the table. "This is so not the place to be strolling down memory lane." Her gaze dropped to the table.

Cutter's lips quirked a little. She had as much trouble as he did trying to figure out the context of their new status… She glanced back up and gave him a wry smile.

Max and Maggie are one of my favorite couples to write. They feature in the Top Dog Pilots series and also have a couple of bonus scenes I'm working on.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Zinging Barbs

July kind of flew by in a series of weird weather and crazy work schedules. I'm oddly okay with that. The weather is what it is… and will probably keep acting like an angry toddler. My work calendar is bursting at the seams and I'm excited about my new projects.

But… my television viewing is sporadic, which isn't a bad thing. I'm just so used to doing rundowns each week I feel like my blog is naked if I don't have a full slate. LOL

I did get a few shows watched. I started with Midsomer Murders and got a holiday episode. There's a new detective sergeant or maybe it's detective constable, but either way, I'll miss Jones. I loved that character. Which isn't to say the new guy won't grow on me. He's not bad. Good mystery also.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and it's rather different and I like it. I'm not sure how long the first season is, but the series is something like fourteen seasons and it's nice to have variety in format.

Caught two more episodes of Peter Gunn and Classic Who. I'm kind of excited to watch a live-action episode with Two. So far, it's been six animated episodes.

Finished the final episode of Blade. I have to admit to still being disappointed with the outcome on my rewatch. Sometimes I can have a change of heart when I've got a few years of distance when viewing a show's run.

Frankie Drake Mysteries had a great episode. I'm starting to like Grayson a little more and it'll be fun to see if Frankie's mom sticks around.

Watched the fifth episode of Daredevil and, eh, this is something of a slow-moving season. I do like where things are going and it's great to see Karen kind of have to face what she did in a previous season. That said, I'm enough of a Fisk non-fan to really not want to watch a bunch of scenes with him. And the FBI agent annoys the crap out of me. I actually think he's too smart to be playing things so stupidly. So, yeah, I hope the rest of the season evens out.

Started Riverdale's Bizarrodale episode and hope to finish it later today. This season has been dark and twisty and I like it.

New episodes of Killjoys have started and I'll be hopelessly behind on those, but I can't wait to watch this final season.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Zinging Barbs, a sexy short bonus scene featuring Reagan and Ian from Poetry in Motion.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Reagan Bruce won't slow down, not even when she's seven months pregnant and Ian Flannigan decides to walk away from competing to keep Reagan healthy. The couple exchanges some zinging barbs until they work out their issues.

And a sneaky peek…

Reagan Bruce planted her hands on her hips, her pregnant belly on prominent display. "Where you go I go." Ian Flannigan would not leave her behind.

Ian gave her stomach a pointed look. "The wee one inside you disagrees." He met her gaze. "And so does our doctor." He always used inclusive words… like it meant he shared her burden-slash-blessing more than he actually did.

Or could.

As if.

Reagan brought her hands forward to palm her protruding stomach. "Yeah, well, my doctor doesn't always make the right call. I'm seven months pregnant. Of course I'm tired a lot." And, okay, her energy levels came in short bursts, but she got shit done when they came.

Ian blew out a harsh breath. "You're being stupid, Reagan. You make it sound like you have a choice when you don't." He threw his hands up. "And I'll be damned if I'm going to watch you push too hard and put yourself and our kid in danger."

Reagan refused to give in to the tears pricking behind her eyelids. Stupid hormones turned everything into emotional drama. The one thing she hated about being pregnant.

She could do crazy drama without hormones.

Ian broke into her internal monologue. "Look, Reagan. I'll make this simple. I love you and our kid more than I want to be a champion." He moved forward and cupped her face.

Reagan went from blubbery sad to red-hot pissed off in less than a millisecond. "Now who's being stupid, Ian?" She pushed him away. "You're at the top. You can't walk away now." Why the hell would he want to?

Oh, right. Her. And their unborn kid. Dammit.

Ian quirked a brow. "Oh, yeah? Watch me." He went to find his phone.

She had to stop him. If he called and canceled his next bout, he'd never forgive her. Hell, she wouldn't forgive herself.

She grabbed his arm. "If you quit now, we're done. I'll leave you." What? Sometimes she hated the way her brain worked.

Ian closed his eyes but not before she caught the flash of anger and rage in his gaze.

He yanked away from her. "No, you won't." He grabbed his phone and keys. "Because I am." Taking the five steps to the door, he slammed it shut behind him.

Reagan carefully walked to the sofa and sank down. "Stupid fucking hormones." But she couldn't blame everything on her body's chemistry.

Being told she couldn't do something never sat well with her. Yes, she balked at being left behind. Hated the horrible timing of everything. But she didn't want Ian to give up his chance to take the championship because her insecurities wouldn't take a back seat at the moment.

Closing her eyes, she massaged her stomach. "I really, really hope you're more like your dad, little person." An answering kick nudged against her fingers. "Yeah, yeah. I'll go find him." She got up and crossed the living room to retrieve her keycard and phone. "I have a feeling I know where he went."

I love writing small sexy peeks into what's going on after a couple has supposedly worked through their drama and settled into their happily ever after.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Everyone Has a Skill

As usual, the weather in Ohio is all over the map. A balmy fifty degrees one day and single digits the next. It's crazy.

I'm working my way through my binge watch of Hawaii Five-0. I'm currently in season 4 at the halfway mark. I'm rather happy with the continuity to this point. When shows play with their history and / or rewrite it, I get a little cranky. (I'm looking at you NCIS: LA)

Need to catch up on The Librarians and Teen Wolf. Definitely looking forward to the return of my regular shows later this month.

Tonight's post is from Everyone Has a Skill, a bonus free read featuring Lita and Ollie from All Jacked Up.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A bonus scene where our heroes are trapped behind enemy lines and only one paid good attention during survival training. The other had more fun memorizing the armory's weapon selection.

And a sneaky peek…

Ollie stirred the contents of the pan over the fire. The stew would be bland, but at least filling. The ginsa root's pungent flavor when raw turned into a much milder taste when cooked.

Lita burst into the clearing, carrying a handful of something with her. "Hey, look what I found." She waved the green plants back and forth then brought them closer.

He grinned. "Wild leeks?" Taking them, he rinsed the tender greens with some water and started slicing them into the pot.

She quirked a brow. "Don't sound so surprised. I'm not a total moron." Dropping down to her haunches, she sniffed the bubbling soup.

Ollie snorted. "Never said you were. I asked if you slept through survival training." He finished cutting the leeks and wiped his knife off. "That'll liven up the stew."

Lita nodded. "Actually smells good." Her tongue darted out, swiping over her lower lip. "Here's hoping it tastes halfway decent." Laughter sparked in her gaze.

Ollie put his hand over his chest. "Ouch." He stirred the stew one more time then dished it into two cups. "Let's find out, yeah?" Handing her one, he settled down beside her.

Lita took a tentative bite and lifted a shoulder. "It's not five-star dining, but, hey, it's better than anything I'd ever cook." She tapped her cup against his.

Ollie accepted the praise. "At least we won't starve before we can make it to the extraction point." He dug into the meal.

Lita gave him a long, considering look. "Looks like I'm going to have to find a way to repay you." A sexy smirk curved her lips and she waggled her eyebrows.

Ollie chuckled. "Given your imagination, that should prove interesting."

Lita set her dish aside and crawled around to straddle his lap. "You'd better believe it."

Lita and Ollie are very fun and having them rely on each other sparks their attraction, then draws them into a deeper relationship.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Every Last Drop

A very Happy New Year to all!

Hope everyone survived the holiday season and 2017 is starting out with peace and joy.

I finished up my Great Holiday Show Binge Watch Extravaganza for the most part. Mainly single episode shows from a wide variety of dramas. I still have a couple of shows on my DVR that I'll watch after everyone goes back to school and work.

Started a binge watch of the reboot of Hawaii Five-0. After watching the Christmas episodes, I had enough interest to start the series. So far, I'm enjoying the reboot and started season two yesterday.

Looking forward to the return of my regular shows this month.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Every Last Drop, a bonus scene featuring Effy and Jonah from Unlawful Acts.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A bonus scene where the last cup of coffee can make or break someone's day… depending on who gets to it first.

And a sneaky peek…

Effy tucked one of her stakeout bags under the chair in the van. She always came prepared, especially when surveillance only required minimal effort. Changing a camera angle or adjusting a microphone didn't take a lot of work.

But someone needed to man the controls and they always worked in teams.

Setting up the equipment, she muttered. "If Jonah sicced Piney on me, I'm going to cheerfully kill the man." She grabbed a thermos from her second duffel and chuckled. "At least I got the last of good stuff.

The back door opened and Jonah popped his head inside the van. "What's this about cheerfully killing me?" He ambled up inside and dragged a large canvas satchel in with him.

Effy blinked, surprised beyond reason. "What're you doing?" Complaints about Piney aside, she hadn't expected Jonah to take the shift.

Jonah shot her a lopsided grin. "Apparently not dying tonight." He unzipped his case and rummaged around. "Cheerfully, though? Geez, Effy, that's a little harsh, isn't it?"

She lifted a shoulder. "Maybe. But since it's not a cause for concern, we'll just forget I said that, right?" Her brain couldn't quite wrap around the idea of Jonah doing surveillance with her.

Jonah glanced up. "Good. Now that we've established you're not going to kill me, I can deliver the bad news."

She braced for the worst. "Please tell me Piney's not outside waiting to ruin my night."

Jonah laughed. "Come on. I wouldn't do that to you." He waggled his eyebrows. "Especially since you were up until the wee hours this morning." He sobered. "Actually, we're pulling a double, meaning you'll be up until dawn again."

Effy straightened. "What? Why?" Wait, why complain?

At least she had a hot man to spend the next eight hours with.

Jonah pulled out another thermos of coffee. "How about I sweeten the deal with some manna from heaven?" He set the carafe beside hers. "You're not the only one who has pull with the galley crew."

Effy smiled. "Consider me all in for the double then."

Not much of a date night, but they didn't flaunt their couple status to anyone.

And Jonah ranked way higher than Piney Underwood ever would.

I love to write bonus scenes and revisiting Jonah and Effy is so much fun.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Every Last Drop

Hi!

I hope everyone who celebrates the 4^th had a safe and happy one filled with lots of fireworks!

Some great TV even with the holiday week. Defiance keeps getting better… and darker, which I love bunches. Dominion also keeps me coming back. I'm not quite sure I have everything down but I like to be kept guessing. Forgot to mention The Last Ship… loving it. I have a thing for shows with ships and combine it with a mutated virus, I'm totally there.

Tonight's post is from Every Last Drop, a bonus short story tying in with Unlawful Acts.

Here's the tagline:

A bonus scene where the last cup of coffee can make or break someone's day… depending on who gets to it first.

And a sneaky peek…

Jonah grabbed the last cup of coffee from the dispenser and the galley crew came in to clean up the huge vat. The process would take at least half an hour. Jonah's lips twitched when he heard crashing footfalls outside the mess hall.

Effy came dashing through the open door and skidded to a halt, a low growl coming from her. "Dammit!" Her gaze shifted to Jonah, narrowing. "You moron. You took the last cup, didn't you?"

Jonah's eyes widened. "Wasn't me. I've been here at least fifteen minutes." He took a long swallow of the bracing liquid.

Effy snorted. "Really? The steam wafting off that giant mug says otherwise." She crossed her arms in front of her chest.

Busted, Jonah shrugged. "Maybe you should get your ass out of your rack a little earlier." He moved forward, stopping beside her. "Briefing's in fifteen." He took another swallow, but didn't turn to leave.

Effy smirked. "Speaking of. Did you figure out who to put Piney with yet?" Her hand reached out and snagged the mug from Jonah.

He didn't object. Effy took a large gulp, closing her eyes in bliss when the caffeine-infused wake up jolt slid down her throat.

Jonah shook his head. "Not yet. But I'm sure you'll tell me who it should be." He took the mug from her hands and barely got a sip before she launched into a list of prospects. She laid her hand on his forearm. "But, yeah, don't stick him with me. The guy never shuts up." She took the opportunity to grab the cup from his hands when he shook his head.

He quirked a brow. "Meaning you can't get a word in edgewise and that pisses you off." Effy rolled her eyes and downed the contents of the cup. "No, but it sure makes for a long four hours in the back of a stakeout van." She set the cup on the table for the galley crew to retrieve.

She walked past Jonah, bumping her shoulder against his, the only thanks she'd provide. He chuckled and fell into step beside her.

After turning the corner to a quieter corridor, Effy leaned in, keeping her voice low. "You know, if you didn't keep me up half the night doing wicked, wonderful things in my rack, I might roll out of bed a little earlier." Her hand smacked him on the ass and she ducked into the head, no doubt to splash cold water on her face.

A single, shared cup of coffee wouldn't be enough to totally get her in top condition.

And he had kept her up until the wee hours of the morning.

Effy and Jonah are a fun couple to write and this bonus short is coming along very nicely. Should be available as a free download after the release of Unlawful Acts.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Drink Me

June 22, 2014

Whoa. Awesome week of television. Defiance is back on Syfy and what a great opening episode for season two. I won't get into spoilers, but I'm excited about where things are going. Dominion also premiered and I enjoyed watching. I'm hoping we get less exposition as the season progresses, but I'm always down for a good set-up in the first episode. J

Orphan Black. Finale didn't disappoint and once again, twists and turns I totally didn't expect. One of the biggest reasons I love this show so much is it never quite goes where I think it will. I was thrilled to have some additional information and background for Paul—even if it makes him even more mysterious. Putting my Cosima hat on for a moment, this show is like a fractal pattern, every layer that's revealed turns around on itself and spawns into something else. I'm sure I butchered the science angle, but… just watch the show to see what I mean. :D

Tonight's post is from Drink Me, a bonus short featuring the characters from One Hot Mess.

Here's the tagline:

A bottle of alcohol takes on the role of perpetrator in a couple's romp filled weekend. Both would swear the damn thing dared them to drink every last drop.

And a sneaky peek…

The shot glass sat empty on the counter, right beside the equally empty bottle.

Eva looked up and shook her head. Van gave her a sloppy grin.

She dropped her head in her hands. "I swear the damn bottle said, 'Drink me'"

Van chuckled, then laughed. "It did. I heard it." He swayed on the stool. "Several times."

Eva glanced sideways. "Think we missed the last transport back?" She craned her head, slowly, and didn't see any of their teammates in the bar.

Van propped an elbow on the bar and rested his head in his hand. "Probably, but I don't care. I'm off tomorrow."

Eva blinked. "You know what? I am, too." She waved the bartender over. "Mac, gimme another bottle, will you?"

The barman lifted a brow, but produced more vodka. "You might wanna consider letting me get you a room before you finish this one off. I don't let anyone sleep it off in the bar."

Van sat up and almost slid off the stool. "That's a great idea." He dug his card out of his wallet. "Can you really set that up?"

Mac laughed. "Normally, I don't make the offer, but for you two, I'm willing. No way you'll be able to manage on your own."

Eva leaned forward, pouring two more shots. "Give yourself a generous tip, Mac. Van won't mind." She slid a glass in his direction and added a smirk. "Will you, Van?"

Van narrowed his eyes. "Since I probably won't remember any of this in the morning, why not?"

I love writing bonus stories for free reads and this one is no exception.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Down and Dirty

Greetings!

Happy St. Paddy's Day to those who celebrate. And honestly, why don't we all? :D

I've been fighting one of those nagging headaches all day. The kind that hovers in the background and becomes annoying, but not overly painful. Bleh.

But…a post must be made!

Tonight's preview is from what I hope will be a free download if and when I ever get my lengthy space saga trilogy completed and published. Down and Dirty outlines the betting pool that features heavily in the first book of the trilogy, Follow Me.

Here's the tagline:

The tale behind how a certain pool gets started that put Sloan and Molly in the hot seat. And how Specialist Neve Campbell thought she might have caught them in the act.

And here's a wee sneaky peek…

The nearly empty flight deck sounded oddly quiet on third watch. Only the deck chief, Keegan Douglas and Specialist Neve Carlyle remained, handling some routine maintenance reports and cleaning up. The chief sat on a stool at one of the workstations, catching up on the paperwork. Specialist Carlyle cleaned up around the perimeter of the flight deck with her push broom, every once in a while she'd stop to spray down a workstation and wipe it clean. Neither the Chief nor Neve paid much attention to the two pilots in a darkened corner of the deck where a mangled bird needed extensive repairs.

Finishing up a workstation, Specialist Carlyle took a moment before she started sweeping again. Resting her chin on the handle of the broom, she stared dreamily, her mind flitting back to an earlier incident after the first dog CAP.

Phoenix—Lieutenant Molly Ryan—came in hot and landed hard. The CAG—Captain Sloan MacNeill—read her his riot act. Not that Neve blamed him. The lieutenant pulled a daredevil maneuver against the captain's orders and cut it too close. If the CAG hadn't jumped her shit, the chief would have. The space carrier's planes were his babies and he got very protective…and extremely grouchy…when pilots decided to play rough with them.

Neve stumbled onto the scene on her way back from the mess. If she'd known what would go down, she'd have brought popcorn. Keegan…Chief Douglas…hovered close to the action, which drew Neve's attention right away. The chief rarely stood still on the deck. He preferred a constant state of motion, the better to put out fires with a quick response. Neve stopped and followed his line of sight to the CAG and his top pilot.

Her breath caught in her throat. It usually did when the captain and lieutenant got within five feet of each other. Even when they argued—usually a daily occurrence—something, chemistry maybe, oozed back and forth. Sloan and Molly had a history and baggage with each other, but the depth of feeling, always there, defined their friendship. Lieutenant Ryan pushed MacNeill's buttons, but everyone knew she respected him. That helped smooth the way when he took over as CAG.

It really saved the day when Captain MacNeill had to get in the lieutenant's face. Molly often stood toe to toe and argued with him, but she held the key to his acceptance among the other pilots and crew. The fact Molly approved of him meant everyone else did. And the current turmoil made it vitally important. The pilots were the front line defense, protecting the fleet and providing safe passage. Neve wouldn't hesitate to admit she appreciated having them around. Being on the run and having them as backup made her take extra special care with her duties. Even something as mundane as cleaning up the flight deck.

Neve worked her way around the hangar and edged closer the bent plane, but she hadn't made it far enough to see who lingered there. Besides, the darkened corner could wait a few minutes for the swipe of her broom. Maybe she'd get lucky and they'd leave before she reached it. She hoped none of the nuggets decided to try the chief’s patience by sneaking in a quickie on the flight deck.

It would not go over well. Just last week he'd caught two newbie crewmen all hot and heavy in one of the transports. Her ears still rang from the scathing lecture he'd delivered. Neve wondered if maybe he'd been listening to the CAG and picking up pointers. Captain MacNeill blasted Lieutenant Ryan not long ago for disobeying a direct order. Neve would totally deny it, but watching them go a round always made her a little hot under the collar.

And why wouldn't it? The air between the captain and lieutenant literally crackled. Neve took a moment, letting the scene play out in her head.

Sloan moved with purpose when Molly exited her wounded bird. "You pulled a hot dog move after I ordered you not to." His voice rose with each word. "And what happened, lieutenant?"

The fact Sloan reported directly to his father didn't faze Molly in the slightest. She held a place of importance in the commander's life, too.

She rolled her eyes. "I cut it a little close. So what?"

The captain made a strangled, choking sound. "A little close? You're insane." He lowered his voice. "Any closer and the deck crew would be welding on new wings, Lieutenant."

Molly looked away and shrugged. "Yeah, well. I told you I needed to let off some steam."

Sloan exploded. "Only crazy people do barrel rolls when the landing bay doors are closing.

Molly's eyes snapped back to his. "I got in, didn't I?" Her face dared him to counter the fact.

Sloan snorted. "Barely, Lieutenant. You barely got in. And you will make the repairs to the landing struts."

Molly's nostrils flared, but she held her temper. "Whatever. Doesn't mean I have to like it."

Sloan snapped. "Fine."

Molly mimicked. "Fine."

Each stalked off in opposite directions.

Neve shook her head. They should just lock themselves in a supply closet and be done with it.

Chief Douglas shot her a look and Neve realized she'd said the thought out loud.

She blushed. "Er, sorry, Chief." Her mouth always seemed to get ahead of her brain.

Keegan cocked his head to the side. "Actually, Specialist. You might be onto something." His eyes followed the CAG's angry progress toward the office. "They're either gonna screw each other or kill each other. Hard to say which."

Neve pondered his words, keeping an eye on Molly when she yanked her flight suit down to her waist then glanced back over her shoulder, her gaze following the CAG's progress away from the flight deck. "No. They won't kill each other. It's a matter of when or where they'll hook up."

The chief grabbed a clipboard and a fresh sheet of paper. "I'll take that action. Date and time, Specialist."

Neve gaped. "You're serious, Sir?"

He snorted. "Hell, yes. Those two going at each other is like foreplay. Sooner or later, they'll cave." He handed her the clipboard.

And with a stroke of a pen, a pool had been started.

And there you have it. You'll have to come back once I get Follow Me published and see why Neve thought she might have caught the CAG and his top pilot in action. LOL

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

ML Skye

BREAKING NEWS

Greetings from Hell Week!!!

Yes, I said Hell Week.

Your favorite on the beat blog reporter scored a coveted spot aboard the ASC (that's Aircraft Space Carrier for those not in the know) Mythos just when things in the military space program are gearing up to a fevered pitch.

But seriously? Who hasn't heard about the Mass Preparedness Assault Training or M-PAT? Ah…the military and their acronyms. And who isn't tired of the same recycled information, covered 24/7 since the announcement of this exercise? Is anyone not bored to tears yet?

I know I am.

What do we really care about? Certainly not silly war games in a peace time society. No, we care about the ins and outs of the behind the scenes drama.

Am I right?

That's why this reporter will be taking a different approach to gathering information. Will I wait for the daily briefing, containing the same carefully reworded information we've received since day one? I don't think so. What do we really want to know about the inner workings of a spacecraft carrier?

Yes, you wanna know as much as I do. What do the elite of the elite pilots really think about each other? Who hates whom? Where do they go for downtime on a ship the size of small city? And of course the big questions. When do they find time for sex? Where do they have it?

Yours truly has made it my personal mission to chase down the two top pilots, Max 'Ripper' Cutter and Maggie 'Magpie' Harper, and find out the burning answers.

Wish me luck!
The 'Skipper' (<-- a="" by="" call="" cute="" given="" isn="" it="" moi="" pilot.="" rookie="" sign="" span="" sweet="" t="" to="">

**********************************************************************
Stella Snupe is an award-winning investigative journalist. After 25 years, she walked away from the trenches to focus on something fun and exciting, instead of dreary and depressing. Five years ago, she established the Daily Dash and it quickly became the most highly visited blog in the blogosphere. Her philosophy on life is: Live for fun, laugh for life, but always get the dirt.