Sunday Snippet: Top Honors

I hope everyone who observes Thanksgiving had a terrific one. The fam and I went to my dad's for a very low-key dinner and quality time together. It's been a few years since we've been able to do that, which is weird because he only lives two miles away from me. LOL

I can honestly say this year I'm so thankful that my family and work life is on an even keel and I some majorly great ideas popping for both my writing and a business venture I hope to pursue in the new year. My editing work keeps me busy and I get to read new books all the time. For a book nerd, there's nothing better.

Television took a back seat to some work commitments and the holiday. I caught a bunch of Classic Who episodes. I'm in season two during the Rome arc. Thoroughly enjoy watching the first doctor.

I’m almost finished with season one of Penny Dreadful. There are times when the show seems to plod along a little. I hope that smooths out with the next season.

Legends of Tomorrow had a great Thanksgiving episode. I kind of like Nate being with the time bureau. Of course a huge showdown with his dad is inevitable. Sadly. I also kind of love Ray getting a little tarnished and being so uncertain about some of his decisions. Makes him a lot more interesting.

Wow. Wynonna Earp keeps getting better. They never quite do what I expect them to do and I love it. Messy relationships playing out on screen is highly entertaining.

Got in another episode of The Dresden Files and I remember watching this one. I hope the new incarnation stays with some of the interesting details of how Harry became a wizard. Also got the last episode of Underbelly's first season. Gotta say it started out pretty slow but ended up being pretty decent.

I watched Midsomer Murders while getting caught up on folding laundry. The entire episode… so yeah, I had a crap ton of clean clothes to fold. Also got an episode of Babylon 5 in on the same day.

To round out the week, I caught episode seven of Birds of Prey on CW Seed and then followed up with The Flash's All Doll'd Up. While I like Nora, she can be a little whiny sometimes. Hope that changes soon.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Top Honors, a novella that started with a writing community prompt of "academy graduation". So many possibilities for that topic.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Katie Beal and Hilton Hillion have a very messy breakup after she fails him from basic flight. Two years later, Forbes Hillion bumps into her at Hilt's graduation from the academy and sparks fly, but Katie won't go down the same road again… after all, her career can't withstand another setback from Forbes's dad.

And a sneaky peek…

"Nothing like a late transport flight to almost miss graduation." Forbes Hillion arrived just in time to see his brother accept his certificate and receive his rank insignia. "Way to go, Hilton." Tucking his cover under his arm, he added his applause to the others in the auditorium.

Glancing to his right, his gaze landed on a woman lieutenant standing in the shadows clapping for his brother. She looked familiar but Forbes couldn't quite place where he'd seen her before. Before the admiral announced the next name, she stepped out of the darkened alcove and started for side exit, the one Forbes had entered through. The dim light illuminating the aisles gave him a better look and recognition hit Forbes.

His brother's ex.

Forbes automatically leaned to open the door at the same time she put her palms out to push the handle. She stumbled a little and shouldered into Forbes's chest. Startled, she glanced up with a quick muttered apology before ducking out into the hallway.

Forbes followed her into the corridor. "Hey, sorry about that. It's Katie, right?" He'd almost forgotten then name… over two years had gone by.

Her head whipped around and she paused a moment then nodded. "Yeah, um, hello, Forbes." A wary note crept into her gaze.

Forbes frowned. Maybe she didn't want anyone to know she'd been here. He could understand; the breakup had been rather public.

But what better time to get reacquainted. He'd always liked her.

Moving to the side, he let the door to the auditorium close. "What brings you here today?" He shouldn't assume she came for Hilt's ceremony.

Katie's lips kicked up in a brief smile. "Despite our somewhat spectacular breakup, I wish nothing but the best for Hilton."

Forbes propped a shoulder on the wall. "I never got to thank you." Her confused look had him clarifying. "For failing him. He never had the will to fly but he let Dad push him into enrolling in the program." Something Forbes tried to talk Hilton out of.

Katie shrugged. "I only did what Hilton asked. He's got a good head on his shoulders and he's scary smart. He'll do well in intelligence."

Forbes snorted. "Unless he goes with cryptography. They're in a bit of a battle to see which one can offer the most incentive to get Hilt to sign on with them." His brother had serious skill when it came to languages and codes.

 Sadness drifted into her gaze, but she covered it quickly. "It's good to have options. And he's got plenty." She gave a small nod and started down the corridor toward the main lobby.

Forbes didn't want to let her leave. Where did the balls-to-the-wall instructor go? He'd like to find out.

He caught up with her. "Are you busy this evening? I'd love to have dinner and catch up with you." And maybe discover what took the fire out of her eyes.

Katie blinked and shook her head. "Aren't you celebrating with family?" She moved to the side of the corridor, staying out of the flow of traffic.

Forbes chuckled. "Nope. Hilt's got a late flight out to meet with a base commander. One of the ones pulling out all the stops to impress him." No doubt there would be a veritable feast provided on his brother's flight.

Katie gave him a long, studied look. "Dinner sounds great. What time—" She broke off the question when his dad rounded the corner from the main auditorium doors.

Walsh Hillion cut an authoritative figure. He strode forward with confidence, gave a curt nod to Katie, and clapped Forbes on the back.

Walsh directed his gaze toward Katie. "Lieutenant Beal. Did you have students graduating today?"

She schooled her features into a pleasant mask. "No, admiral, only a former one."

His dad's eyes narrowed and a long moment passed in silent exchange. Forbes didn't have a clue what the hell pinged between the two of them but the vibe took an awkward turn.

Walsh glanced away and turned toward Forbes. "Glad you made it. What kept you?"

Forbes kept his gaze on Katie but answered his dad. "Late getting in. The transport had a delay waiting on a colonel to make the connecting flight." Katie fidgeted and looked ready to bolt.

Because of his dad? But why?

She made a move toward the door. "If you'll excuse me. I'll let you two catch up."

Forbes stepped away from his dad. "Where can I meet you? What time?" He wouldn't let her get away without nailing down the details.

She gave his dad a quick side eye, named a restaurant and time, then pushed through the exit. Forbes stared after her. His head spun from her hasty retreat.

His dad cut through the fog. "There'll be trouble if you take up with her." His voice had a warning edge to it.

Forbes quirked a brow. "For her? Really?" He faced his dad. "And why is that?"

Walsh's brows furrowed. "You don't think your brother will have a problem with you starting something up with his ex-girlfriend… the one who failed him?"

Forbes rolled his eyes. "He might if he hadn't started dating his current girlfriend ten minutes after he publicly split with Katie." Something else had the admiral in a twist. "It's been two years, Dad. Why are you making an issue?" Seriously, what the hell had he missed?

Walsh backed off. "It's your life, son. But you could do better."

Forbes opened his mouth to respond but Hilton came around the corner, his arm wrapped around Margo James, the current girlfriend.

Walsh moved away and greeted his youngest son, leaving Forbes to ponder exactly what his dad meant by the comment about Katie. Personally, Forbes rather hoped Katie wouldn't think she could do better than her ex's older brother.

Maybe he'd find out at dinner.

I'm pretty pleased with how this scene came together. And Forbes? Well, dinner might not go the way he wants it to. LOL

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Top Honors

Hmmm. As much as I love Doctor Who, I have to admit to being underwhelmed by the season premiere. I'm not a huge fan of Missy in any way, shape, or form. I love the concept of a female Master, but eh, not thrilled with the storylines she's been featured in. We'll see how the rest of the season goes.

I have been enjoying the new season of Longmire. I like to move to Netflix and, so far, all the episodes have been pretty solid. I think I have two left before I'm done.

I wish I had more excited for the new fall season but nothing is really sparking my interest with the new slate of shows. I am looking forward to my faves returning so at least I'll have something to rave about each week. LOL

Tonight's post is from Top Honors, a novella where my characters have some family issues to overcome.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Katie Beal and Hilton Hillion have a very messy breakup after she fails him from basic flight. Two years later, Forbes Hillion bumps into her at Hilt's graduation from the academy and sparks fly, but Katie won't go down the same road again… after all, her career can't withstand another setback from Forbes's dad.

And a sneaky peek…

Katie Beal entered the commandant's office and stood at attention.

Colonel Nathan Jones met her gaze. "Lieutenant Beal, your status as a flight instructor is hereby revoked and your pay grade lowered to O3. You'll report to the base hangar deck at 0600 first thing Monday morning for new orders." He glanced away. "If I had my way, I'd keep you on. You're the best instructor we've had come through here in a long time." Clearing his throat, he looked back in her direction. "My hands are tied, Katie. I'm sorry."

The use of her given name took some of the sting away from being dismissed. But she needed to be stoic and not crumple under pressure.

Katie gave the colonel a terse nod. "I understand, Sir. Thank you for the opportunity." She met his gaze again. "And for being the best commanding officer I've ever had." Her voice wobbled and she slowly drew in a deep breath.

The anger set in and helped keep any stupid tears from forming behind her eyelids. She blamed no one but herself. Getting tangled up with a student ? Never ended well, as her affair and subsequent break-up with Hilton Hillion proved.

And Walsh Hillion made sure he drove the point home by working behind the scenes to protect his baby boy's name and do his damnedest to muddy up hers.

The colonel sighed. "This business with Hilton isn't your fault, Lieutenant. The kid didn't have the chops and you did what you were supposed to do."

Katie's lips twisted. "Not according to his dad. Apparently I should've passed his son, regardless of the fact he'd have never made it through the board quals."

Colonel Jones shook his head. "I'm aware of the cadet's shortcomings. He entered flight school later than most, charmed his way into your heart, then blew every opportunity you gave him." He met Katie's gaze. "But Walsh Hillion is a damned fine officer, one who wields a lot of power—rightfully so in most cases—just not in this one." His shoulders slumped forward.

Katie gave a quick nod. "I meant no disrespect, Colonel. I hope you know I don't hold any ill will towards the admiral." And therein laid the bitch of her entire situation.

Admiral Hillion had a reputation for demanding excellence. She respected his drive for distinction and merit. But she didn't have to like the man or his tactics. Her anger over his machinations would pass. Her disappointment with her stupidity would linger for a long time.

Colonel Jones stood up. "Lieutenant, if I ever have the opportunity to bring you back as an instructor, I'll do so. Keep your credentials up to date." He came around and walked her toward the door. "And stop in when you can. I have no doubt I'll be seeing you on base from time to time." He gave her a kind smile.

Katie made her lips turn upward. "Thank you, Sir. I'll look forward to seeing you." She turned and started down the corridor.

Once clear of the educational building, she leaned against the outside wall. Dragging in a few deep breaths, she exhaled slowly and lifted her chin. Walsh Hillion could use his rank like a blade, wielding his mighty sword to fell a lowly lieutenant. Katie would soldier on, keep her head down, and wait out the storm.

She didn't envy Hilton at all. He'd started flight school later than most, almost a full two years behind the average age. He'd held out, going to college for two years before applying for the basic course. Katie asked him about it once and he'd mentioned not living in his brother's shadow. His sibling made top gun status within the first year of graduating so Hilton held out… until his old man pushed hard to add another pilot to the family roster. Hilton caved and did okay in the basic course. He faltered once he got into her advanced training program. And when he realized he couldn't bluff his way through her classes, even though they were romantically involved, he did the smart thing and told her to fail him—after they broke up. Too late to do much to save her post as an instructor, but she'd take the hit there. She could've done the smart thing and rebuffed him.

Katie shook her head. Hilton had a keen intelligence and he'd go far in the military… just not as a pilot. Hilt needed a position where he could analyze details, project outcomes, and use the bucket loads of charm he oozed without trying. Something like military intelligence. Katie would bet her next pay grade the spooks and spies would recruit him before he graduated.

Maybe his old man would back off then. But she wouldn't bet on that one.

This one is so much fun. Katie's got a good head on her shoulders and once Forbes steps in, the admiral won't know what hit him.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Off the Hook

Happy Easter to those who celebrate. Happy chocolate overload day to those who don't.

So… finale for The Walking Dead last week? AWESOME! My middle kid and I stayed up spinning random theories for a good, long time after the episode ended.

The Flash and Arrow have my brain working overtime, too. I've missed television that makes me stay engaged after the show ends. Keep finding myself getting snared with 'Oh! How cool would it be if [insert random plot bomb here] happens. I can sort of say the same about Agents of SHIELD, but not to the same extent. I did kind of love how the last episode ended though.

Bitten only has one episode left and I can't wait to watch!! Really loving the second season and looking forward to watching on Syfy in a few weeks. So surprised and kind of thrilled to see a character pop back up. The guy is sooo good and I enjoy his work.

And last but not least regarding TV, The Last Ship has it's summer air date. June is looking up. :D

Tonight's post is from Off the Hook, a novella where my couple gets stuck in the middle of family drama.

Here's the tagline:

Esti Warf's relationship with Wyatt Corben is tested when she agrees to give his younger brother a chance to pass basic flight. Wyatt knows in his gut his brother doesn't have the chops, but he can't get Esti to budge on her decision, especially when his old man pressured her into accepting Wilton as a cadet. Both are on the hook, trying to keep peace in the family and still maintain their bond as a couple.

And a sneaky peek…

Wyatt spun around and pinned her with his gaze. "Are you completely insane? Why would you accept Wilton into your class?" He glanced away, pacing back and forth. "If nothing else, it's a conflict of interest. Everyone knows we're together." He stopped and braced for impact.

Esti hit him with both barrels. "Right. And because I suck your dick, I can't possibly keep my professional judgment intact." She whirled around and started for the door.

Damn the man for pissing her off enough to be rude and crude.

Wyatt grabbed her arm, halting her progress. "Dammit, Esti, you know that's not what I mean. You're professionalism isn't in question." His fingers trailed down her arm, lacing with hers. "Everyone else's is."

Wyatt had a point. Tongues would wag because Wilton Corben didn't score high enough on the admission exam for acceptance into the flight program. Instead, he had someone pull strings and call in favors. And Esti couldn't say no…

She sagged against him. "But that's not really the problem, is it?" Mixing personal and professional topped the list, but not because she and Wyatt had sex on a regular basis. "Your dad's expectations are." Esti admired and respected Wharton Corben, but she didn't much like him at the moment.

With their fingers still entwined, Wyatt wrapped his arms around her. "He's putting you in an untenable position, Es. All because his ego demands Wilton become a pilot. And—" Wyatt broke off, not finishing the statement.

Esti supplied the rest. "You don't think he's got what it takes." She eased away. "I get that, Wyatt, but I have to give him a chance. I do the same for every cadet who walks into my class." She turned, facing Wyatt. "How he got in doesn't matter. And far be it from me to play the bitch card, but like your dad, you're having a hell of a time keeping your personal drama out of the equation." Her hand cupped his face. "Give Wilton a chance and let me do my job, okay?"

Wyatt frowned. "Don't have much choice, do I?" He pressed a kiss to her palm. "But I am sorry for being such an ass hat." Drawing her close again, his forehead met hers. "You're not gonna have an easy go of it. I won't add any more bullshit to the pile."

Esti chuckled. "Much appreciated. I wouldn't want to find a new place to sleep." She nudged Wyatt backwards, toward their room. "We're not going to let this whole deal keep us from our favorite form of relaxation, right?"

Wyatt grinned, his worry erased for the moment. "If that's a hint you'd like to have your wicked way with me, then hell no, I'm all for forgetting about the old man and my brother for a while." He swept his arm under her legs and deposited her on the bed.

Esti smiled, big and wide. "I definitely want to have my very wicked way with you." Her finger hooked over the waistband of his pants, tugging him forward. "Then you can have yours with me."

I'm looking forward to how this story plays out. The challenge is to keep the conflict going but still have them function as a couple. I enjoy that kind of story.

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

ML Skye