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: A Day in the Life (Shyler: Finding Home companion read)

What a weird weather week. Of course, it's March in Ohio so not exactly uncommon. We had beautiful spring-like temperatures at the beginning of the week and by Thursday it got chilly again. A little bit of snowy flakes and brrr! degrees outside.

Finished up a big project and another one on the smaller side and also started a new one. Needless to say, I didn't get a lot of television in this week.

I watched the last Midsomer Murders that's currently available. I rather hope they do another season. I love this show.

I also caught another series one episode of Peak Practice. I'm enjoying this series quite a lot.

I started the eleventh series of Classic Who and loved the introduction of Sarah Jane. I'm so sad Elisabeth isn't with us anymore. She made Sarah Jane such a great character.

I've watched about eight more episodes of Danger Man. John Drake is definitely a pre-Bond character study. The first season is a lot of fun so far.

Caught two more episodes of Gargoyles. The second season is quite a mish-mash. Not to say it's not good but a lot is going on.

Started the second episode of Strike Back's final season. This show. I'm going to miss it when it's gone.

Hmm. Maybe I watched more television than I thought. But that's it for this week. Tonight's post is from Day in the Life, a companion read to Furlough 99's Finding Home told from the droid's point of view.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Alphie is a kick ass droid who assists Inspector Shyler Lumen. He's also not afraid to offer unwarranted advice.

And a sneaky peek…

Alphie made himself as unobtrusive as possible, but listened in with a keen ear.

"Do you have rooms reserved?"

Marshton Gray certainly cut to the chase. And he'd caught their inspector off guard.

"Wasn't sure what I'd run into once I got here." Shyler took a long swallow of her CaffCola. "I was assured a single room wouldn't be an issue." Her eyes narrowed in thought. "I didn't expect to get tangled up with you, but I doubt it'll be a problem."

She couldn't be more wrong. Marshton could and would be a problem for Alphie's prickly inspector.

The galactic mogul didn't understand either. "What won't?"

Shyler crumpled up the crisp tray. "You staying with me in a single unit." Her eyes scanned the area until they landed on the trash bin. "I'll go find a porter and book it now." Hopping up, she tossed the refuse then turned and waited for him.

Alphie readied himself to be of assistance. Shyler got as far as swiping her card before Gray intervened with an alternative suggestion. Apparently a single occupancy unit wouldn't work for him. 

And why should it. The man had an entire suite in the luxe quadrant. Alphie wondered if he'd actually convince Inspector Sweetie to share the space with him.

"May I offer a suggestion? An alternative choice?"

Shyler frowned. "To what?"

Alphie had to applaud Marsh's brutal honesty. "Extremely cramped and uncomfortable accommodations."

Shyler raised her eyebrows. "What's wrong? Can't deal?"

Oh ho. Inspector Sweetie scored a point for that one. Gray needed a moment before he could speak.

He blew out a calming breath. "Why should I have to? I've got a suite of rooms in the luxe quadrant." She opened her mouth to blast him but he forestalled her. "I said rooms. You can have your own and not even have to see me." He added on for good measure. "Or hear me for that matter."

Shyler shot back. "Do you snore or something?"

The corners of his mouth turned up. "Not that I've been told."

An odd light crept into her eyes and Marsh gave her a considering look. Alphie decided Miss Sweetie might not be as immune to Mr. Galactic Mogul as she claimed.

Interesting.

Honestly? Writing the story of Shyler and Marsh from Alphie's perspective is so much fun. This one will eventually be a free read once I get the final touches added.

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: All Day Sucker

Whew. What a week. My middle kiddo—who's not really a kiddo anymore at twenty—ended up in an accident when a car turned in front of him across traffic. His car is pretty crunched up but he's thankfully okay. It's been a lot of phone calls this week to get a loaner car lined up and an insurance claim filed. I can say one thing with absolute certainty. I'm so glad we don't have many accidents or fender benders that need insurance company involvement. Yeesh.

I've been on a bit of a comfort viewing watch this past week. I stuck with more Peter Gunn episodes after watching the weekend marathon. I'm in the beginning of season two and about ten or so episodes in.

Also caught three groups of episodes with Classic Who. The six-part Web of Fear, which had some editing issues but it's better than not being available. I followed that with The Wheel in Space, another six-part arc. And then finished up with The Dominators, which is a five-part storyline. It looks like I'm in the last season of Two's run. I'm a little disappointed with how few episodes are available from his tenure.

I watched the last two episodes of series sixteen of Midsomer Murders and started the first episode of series seventeen. It's kind of odd how there was "The Flying Club" in sixteen and now "The Dagger Club" in seventeen.

I need to try to binge watch the final episodes of Riverdale to prepare for the new season starting soon. My heart is so heavy when I watch because they're the last episodes with Fred. I'm really looking forward to the premiere episode, which will be his memorial show.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from All Day Sucker, a possible free read featuring Murph and Jess from Midwinter Crises.

Here's the mini-blurb:

When Ben Murphy returns from a grueling road trip, Jessa Muldoon pulls out all the stops to welcome him home.

And a sneaky peek…

Jess's sexy smirk went straight to his dick. No doubt her intended response.

He nuzzled her throat. "Ah, Jess. It's good to be home." He missed stuff like this—spur of the moment, hot and steamy, and so them.

She trailed a finger down his chest. "Yes, it is." Reaching for the shower gel, she got her hands sudsy.

Murph gave her free rein, enjoying the way her palms kneaded, her fingers danced, and her mouth moved over his skin. He exhaled on a happy sigh. Two weeks of pressure drained away, replaced by the kind of tension he welcomed… sexual with a side of Jess's playfulness thrown in.

She pressed up against his back. "Mmm. There's the man I know and love." Her hands ghosted around his waist, dipping lower to grasp his shaft and fondle his balls.

Murph moaned. "You're a wicked, magical woman, Jess." Turning, he braced his shoulders on the shower tiles out and away from the spray.

Jess leaned in, her lips whispering over his wet skin. "I know… it's why you love me." Her mouth worked along his jawline, down to his collarbone, then lower to his chest.

She swirled her tongue around both nipples then licked a trail from his sternum to his groin. Her hand continued to fist his cock, tugging gently to tempt and tease.

When she dropped to her knees, Murph sucked in a breath. "You are making my night, Jess." Her tongue flicked over the tip. "But, don't you want—" Me, buried balls deep inside you…

Jess shook her head. "Uh-uh. Not yet." She drew his cock all the way to the back of her throat. "I've been looking forward to this." Looking up through her eyelashes, a smile curved her lips. "You can pay me back while we wait for round two." She enveloped his shaft again, sucking hard.

Murph groaned. "Damn straight I will." His fingers threaded through her wet hair.

Jess didn't rush, taking her time, savoring his dick like an all-day sucker. Murph loved the technique and never failed to be surprised when an orgasm would sneak up on him, sweeping him into a wave of bliss only Jess could create. Then, when his brain started functioning again, he'd return the favor.

Jess made a long, slow drag with her lips from the base of his cock to the head, her cheeks hollowed out from the suction. She glanced upward and, as usual, his spine tingled just before he erupted, his fingers putting pressure on her scalp.

When Jess stood up, he hauled her close, twisting the knob to shut off the water. "I love you. You know that, right?"

She tilted her head back. "Yeah, I do. And I love you right back."

I love revisiting my characters at a different point in their lives. Murph and Jess are two of my favorite people.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Just One Moment

Ugh, the rain continues and it's making the outdoors feel like a sauna. I'm not against saunas but, ugh, I'd rather not have one 24 / 7. Besides… you can't run around outside with only a towel on. Okay, I guess it's not impossible, but I won't be doing it anytime soon. LOL

I had a friend recommend Will for my viewing pleasure. I haven't started it yet, but I'll give it a go. She's in love with everything about the show.

Have to play catch up again on my Syfy Friday night shows. I hate being behind and it sucks that on Demand and the Syfy app won't show the latest episode immediately. I have a lot of growly, snarly words about that topic.

Great news! Wynonna Earp is renewed for season three. I'm soooo happy we'll have more demon-killing gun action in the town of Purgatory. Woo!

Lots of terrific trailer action coming from SDCC. I'm looking forward to The Defenders if only for the awesome snark potential.

The Last Ship's new trailer is making me very impatient for the season to start already. Less than a month away, but still feels way too long.

Also… the final episodes of Teen Wolf start next week and I'm excited to see how the series ends.

One final note… I'm actually excited for Doctor Who again! Nothing against Moffat, he's written a few of my very favorite episodes but, ugh, he almost ruined the series for me. The entire last season just rubbed me wrong. I wish him nothing but the best with whatever he's involved in from here on out.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Just One Moment, a sexy short and probably free read to be posted to my website. My goal is to have one for each genre I write in and this one is for the science fiction / speculative romance crowd. It'll be longer than the other two but I think it'll make the Capital City Seasons fans happy.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A life-threatening situation and couples in love. Just one moment to say everything that needs to be said.

And a sneaky peek…

The persistent buzz and vibrating dance of a phone pulled Ben Murphy from a deep sleep.

He nudged his bed partner. "Jess. Phone."

An elite tactical officer, Jessa Muldoon led Team Bravo. Calls in the middle of the night usually went to her.

Jess popped her head up and a flash of lightning lit up her face. She blinked then reached for her phone.

With a grunt, she dropped back down. "Not mine, Murph. Yours." A crack of thunder and another streak of lightning had her sitting back up.

Murph fumbled for his device, silencing the buzz and checking the contact information. "Yeah, Dad. What's going on?" He rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

Angus Murphy got straight to the point. "Get Jess. I need you to come in. Storm's got the city under siege between flooding and fire." He mumbled something in the background. "I've got Margo calling in everyone else. Your group and Renfer's Alpha Team. I need the whole lot of you." The stress came through with his gruff delivery.

Ben slid out of bed and motioned for Jess to get up. "And you need us there two hours ago. Got it, Dad." He found a pair of pants and shoved his feet inside. "We'll be there in ten." Another booming rumble filled the room. "Or as soon as we can." Dead air met his ears.

Jess met his gaze while pulling on her clothes. "Gimme the bullet points." She snagged her phone and started keying in numbers.

Murph held up a hand. "Dad and Margo are handling the calls. The storm's got the city in turmoil and I'm assuming they need us to do damage control. Your team, Renfer's and mine." He jammed his feet into his shoes and started for the door.

Jess let out a low whistle. "The big guns. Everyone on deck." She put her boots on but didn't bother lacing them up.

Murph picked up his go bag and slung it over his shoulder. "Yep. Dad said something about flooding and fires." He followed her into the corridor and down the steps.

When they reached the main door, Murph got a better understanding of the situation. The torrential downpour reduced visibility to the point he couldn't see across the street. Wind whipped in gusts, flinging the rain against the glass windows. The sky lit up again and illuminated the road, showing water rolling up to the curb.

Jess blew out a breath. "Yeah, we're not taking your vehicle." She nodded toward the basement entrance. "Let's take my ride."

Being a team leader for the Strategic Tactical Unit gave her access to an all-terrain unit, which could actually float, if necessary. With one last glance outside, Murph didn't doubt it just might be.

If all goes well, each of the couples in the Capital City Seasons series will make an appearance. Of course, I have to finish writing the other books, which are all in various stages of completions.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fevered Pitch

February 5, 2017

Hello February! Where the weather in Ohio is like a frigid tundra one day and a balmy spring on the next. Ha! Sometimes we get both in the same day. Yeesh.

Well… Riverdale kept my attention and fulfilled my wishes in its second episode. I don't have shows reach and grab me like they used to so this is terrific! I'm completely interested in what happens next.

Gotham just keeps getting better and better. I'm dying to find out what happens to Penguin and can't wait to see the Riddler come into emergence. It's going to be a bumpy ride.

The Flash and Legends of Tomorrow had great episodes. Even the Legion of Doom didn't suck. Looking forward to seeing new episodes this week.

Arrow also had a great episode. I like where they're going with the new Black Canary. I'm also kind of holding my breath to see whether the DA is going to end up being a good guy or a bad guy. I'm also waiting for the other shoe to drop with a seed planted quite a while ago with Oliver being in Russia.

Got all caught up on Teen Wolf and enjoyed the midseason finale. Not sure where they can go with the final ten episodes, but I'll be there to see them.

Started the new season of X Company and it's terrific. I really love this show and the cast. I have three more episodes on tap and can't wait to watch.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Fevered Pitch, a sexy short bonus read that will hopefully be on my website in the near future. Featuring Hal and Mia from Mia's Choice, I have to wait until that book is all polished and pretty.

Here's the mini-blurb:

After six months apart, Hal and Mia are finally reunited at the new space station. But Hal is unknowingly exposed to a virulent virus and brings it along from his last planetary excursion. He succumbs to the raging illness and Mia makes a fevered pitch to her former husband to save Hal's life before she surrenders to the same infection.

And a sneaky peek…

Mia stayed true to her word. The moment they entered her quarters, she backed Hal up against the wall and covered his mouth with hers. Oh… she loved the way he kissed her. Possessive and passionate, he gave everything he had and expected nothing in return.

Which made Mia hot and bothered.

Her hands slid up his chest and she nimbly worked the buttons of his uniform loose. "You have…" She needed another kiss. "Too many…" Ah, and another. "Clothes on." Her fingers grasped the sides of the fabric and pushed it off his shoulders.

Hal shrugged the garment off then tugged his undershirt over his head before swooping in for another lip-lock. "And now I'm ahead of you." He wrapped an arm around her shoulders then swept his other under her legs. "Better play catch up, my love." Tossing her on the mattress, he popped the button on his fatigues and gave her a smoldering look.

Mia wriggled out of her pants, kicking her legs free then yanked her shirt up and off. "Looks like I'm ahead now." Clad only in a pair of panties, she scooted back on the bed, quirked a brow, and beckoned Hal with a crooked finger.

Hal did a slow once-over of her while shucking his pants, revealing nothing but skin and a hard cock under the twill trousers. "Now who's got who beat?" He crawled up on the mattress, grabbing her ankles to pull her under him.

Mia twined her arms around his neck. "Thought you might like to have the honor." She writhed below him, seeking the long shaft nestled between her legs, the satin scrap of fabric wet and slippery against her core.

Hal made a low humming sound. "You're hot, Mia. All for me?" He hooked his thumbs under her waistband and tugged the panties past her hips.

Mia worked one leg free then gasped when Hal's tongue trailed along her folds. "Yes, Hal. Only for you." Her hips bucked, seeking more friction from his mouth.

Hal didn't disappoint, pressing his lips against her click before sucking it with gentle pressure. Mia shuddered, hovering close to the edge. The man made her lose control faster than anyone else ever had. But she wanted his hard dick buried deep before she came.

She fisted the sheets. "Hal…" Her tone held a warning.

Hal grinned against her inner thigh. "Impatient, my love?" He trailed kisses over her hip and along her torso before taking a nipple between his lips.

Mia hissed out a breath. "Yes. Very." Her hands sought his ass, urging him to enter her. "I need you, Hal." She always would.

Not long ago, she might have stabbed a fork in her eye before admitting she needed a man, let alone wanted one.

Looking forward to finishing this one up and getting it out there.

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: Drink Me

December 11, 2016

Is the holiday season in full swing at your house? It's definitely rockin' at mine. LOL

Holiday shows were something of a theme this week. The Flash and Arrow had their Christmas shows and I thoroughly enjoyed.

Teen Wolf is creeping me out with the riders. I kind of love the blend of old and new but really need to see some Stiles on my screen. Agents of SHIELD threw a total twisty twist in at the end of their episode. Can't wait for the hiatus to be over to see what's going to happen next.

The Librarians continues to make me happy. Also love The Talking Dead, especially when I skip the episode of The Walking Dead. I'm just not at all interested in Neegan and his machinations.

Legends of Tomorrow introduced the Legion of Doom and that makes me happy. Having Merlyn and company pop up now and again should keep things very interesting.

MacGyver also makes me happy. I love the reboot of Jack's character more than I can say.

The Great Holiday Binge Watch continues. I've made it through the complete Whoverse and look forward to the new special on Christmas Day. Started on NCIS and have the first two holiday episodes watched.

Also caught up on Murdoch Mysteries. I'm loving this season so much!

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Drink Me, a free companion read to be released with 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…

Vin followed Eva into the Starlight Lounge. He shamelessly enjoyed the way her hips swayed and her ass moved under the sweet confection she called a dress. Thanked the universe when she found a stool to sit on. Any longer and the stroll would've become damned uncomfortable.

The super-hot woman under the sexy athlete messed with his brain.

He eased onto the stool next to hers. She'd picked a good spot, on the shorter edge of the U-shaped bar, only one vacant seat at the corner edge. Taking his hat off, Van set it on top of the backless chair, then shrugged out of his overcoat.

Eva's lips curved in a smirk. "Bet you're glad to be out of that heavy thing."

Van folded the woolen fabric and tucked it under his hat. "Actually, yeah. It does." He shot her a quick smile. "Probably as good as getting out of those heels will feel."

Eva grimaced. "You're not wrong. Jeez, how do women wear these things all the time?" She stuck her leg out and angled her foot back and forth.

The bartender ambled over, his gaze giving Eva an appreciative once-over. Vin's eyes narrowed and the guy quick-checked his flirtation at the door. Vin blinked. The dude probably thought they were a couple—so not the case—and Vin had no reason to be jealous. Right?

The sharp-dressed tender pulled two glasses off the shelf with a flourish and placed them before Vin and Eva. "Name's Mac. I'll be serving until close." He glanced at the bottle-filled display behind him. "What can I get you two?"

Eva didn't hesitate. "Vodka. Nothing else." She flicked her gaze toward Vin. "You?"

He nodded. "Sounds about right."

Mac snagged a bottle and poured two shots. "Good choice." He left the bottle on the counter. "Let me know if you need anything else." Turning, he moved on down to serve a trio of female competitors.

Eva lifted her glass. "To changing opinions."

Vin laughed, appreciating her humor. "To having them changed." He tapped the edge of her drink and downed the clear, but potent, liquid.

I truly love writing Vin and Eva. They're fun and a little crazy.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Down and Dirty

December 4, 2016

Tis the season! The final month of the year filled with joy, happiness, and insanely crazy schedules. LOL

I'm working on a little something I hope to share throughout the month, with the idea dependent upon how many hours I have left over during the day.

Television this week had the best almost full week crossover in the DC universe. Supergirl, The Flash, Arrow, and Legends of Tomorrow went up against the dominators and came out on top. Pretty great stuff!

The Librarians had a fun episode. I like it when Jenkins and Eve have adventures. The Walking Dead's Tara-centric episode ended up being pretty terrific, too.

Gotham got interesting with the introduction of Selena's mother and Gordon landing in another hot mess. Of course, Barbara and company teaming up with Nygma can only be a good thing.

Agents of SHIELD took a twisty turn having Mac inhabited by the fiery vengeance seeker for a brief period. I'm liking where everything is headed.

For fun, I started what I’m calling my Great Holiday Show Binge Watch. I started out with all the holiday episodes of JAG then dove into the Doctor Who Christmas specials. I'm up to "The End of Time" when David Tennant hands over the TARDIS to Matt Smith. Hoping to finish out the Whoverse episodes and maybe start on NCIS next.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Down and Dirty, a sexy short that should end up being a free companion read for the full-length novel, Follow Me.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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 a 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—sometimes 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 to 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.

Sorry, but I'm stopping here. Stay tuned for the free download when and if I finally get Follow Me polished up and ready to go.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Day in the Life

Happy Halloween Eve! Our small town always has its annual trick or treat several days before the actual holiday. On Thursday, it was brisk and chilly, but we had a whole host of costumed kiddos strolling the streets. So much fun!

On the television front, Gotham had another great episode. I'm happy with how things are going on that show. Here's hoping the consistency holds through the end of the season.

The Flash and Agents of SHIELD pulled out some surprises. The new director guy on AoS is actually kind of fun and hopefully not evil. LOL I'm not gonna hold my breath on that score.

Arrow keeps making me happy. Diggle is out of prison, but who knows what'll happen next with him. The new team suffered some shake-ups. We'll see how that all shakes out.

Legends of Tomorrow delivered again. I like the new guy. And Mick is fast becoming another favorite. Brutal honesty goes a long way with this group and he's definitely not afraid to embrace the truth. LOL

MacGyver's episode might have been the set up for introducing Murdoc. I guess we'll see if the ghost pops back up again.

The Walking Dead… I skipped the premiere and watched The Talking Dead instead. I honestly couldn't see the point in watching when I couldn't bear watching any of my favorites die. I'll be watching tonight's episode… I think. LOL

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from A Day in the Life, a tie-in, free read for my Furlough 99 story, Shyler: Finding Home.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Alphie is a kick ass droid who assists Inspector Shyler Lumen. He's also not afraid to offer unwarranted advice.

And a sneaky peek…

Several hours later, Alphie had some quiet time. He got started on a scan of ISP personnel logged on transport flights to Furlough. He wanted to know the inspector's name.

Bingo! Shyler Lumen, Inspector, first grade. He scanned for everything he could find on her. She had a long list of collars for Mars Planetary Police and now with the InterStellar Police. Looked like the inspector almost always got her man.

And what was this? Girl volunteered all over the place. With BAWs—battered and abused women, food distribution shelters, and two different half-way houses.

When did the woman sleep?

Ah… another interesting fact. Shyler had no romantic connections. No past marriages or multiple living occupancy requests on file. The inspector appeared to be a loner.

She was either very careful or had been burned in the past. He dug a little deeper. Nothing on file so she was careful. Smart woman.

More than a match for Marshton Gray. Alphie had a feeling he'd see more of both.

His circuits almost singed at the potential for fun.

Alphie went into quick shut down mode and transmitted data to the Guild. The group of bounty hunters ran a tight ship on Furlough and Spider Smith, their very talented hacker, made sure he received any and all pertinent information. An ISP inspector counted as very pertinent.

Transfer completed, Alphie blinked several times, bringing himself back online. He remotely connected to the security camera closest to the Den and set a facial recog program to ping him when Inspector Lumen entered the bar. Alphie wanted to keep track of her progress.

I'm looking forward to finally putting the finishing touches on this one and getting it out there for a free download. Fingers crossed that happens soon.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: All Day Sucker

Welcome to May! I'm excited to have some warmer weather finally… enough to want to be outside and working on my yard. :D

Let's see, television this week ended up being a mixed bag. I want to really love Hunters, but eh, not quite sure I'm feeling the joy with that one. We'll see what ends up happening.

The Flash and Agents of SHIELD put out two good episodes. I'm truly interested in finally discovering who's under the mask in the Zoom's cage. Also hoping whoever it is, they're an ally. My jury is still out on AoS, but we'll see how the next few episodes go.

Arrow is breaking my heart, but wow, what terrific performances by the entire cast. My one small gripe has to do with showing Barry having his speed back when Tuesday's episode ended with Wells saying he'd help Barry get it back. Then again, schedules being what they are, they might not have had a choice. I'm just a little disappointed because they're usually so on top of small details like that.

Legends of Tomorrow remains pretty awesome. I'm so thrilled with the character interactions any disappointment I have over Savage being so smarmy as a villain are miniscule.

Wynonna Earp? Man… I love this show so much. It's acting as something of a replacement for Lost Girl with strong, kick ass females and the plotline is truly interesting. I love the sister dynamic and the fish out of water scenario Wynonna experiences on a regular basis. Looking forward to more revelations about Doc's deal with the devil and seeing how long he rides the fence.

Still behind on Banshee, but hoping to catch up soon. Also backed up on Marcella, but I rather love the twisty turns this series takes on a regular basis. Love not knowing if the heroine of the show is actually a villain, too. J

And that's it for television this week.

Tonight's post is from All Day Sucker, a sexy short that will hopefully be a free read, along with two others with either the same or similarly named titles by my alter egos, Skylin O'Thomas and Skye Ritchey.

Here's the mini-blurb:

When Ben Murphy returns from a grueling road trip, Jessa Muldoon pulls out all the stops to welcome him home.

And a sneaky peek…

Jessa Muldoon glanced up when the door opened admitting the love of her life Ben Murphy. He looked beat—dead dog tired with a side of death warmed over. Jess rose to greet him, crossing the floor in five quick strides. He pushed the door closed and slumped against it.

Jess quirked an eyebrow. "Rough trip?" He'd been gone almost two weeks.

Ben dropped his bags to the floor. "I remember why I don't travel as much anymore." He moved forward, hauling her close. "I hate being away from you for so long." His lips met hers in a lingering kiss. "But the treaty is signed. We're pulling out of the hot zone."

Jess grinned and caught his face in her hands. "Congratulations, Murph. You and your team worked your asses off to make that happen." Even with his well-trained staff doing most of the leg work, Murph put in long hours at the office coordinating their efforts.

And when discussions broke down, he'd had no choice but to hop a transport out and land directly in the middle of the negotiations.

Murph flashed a weary smile. "Yeah, we did." He rested his forehead against hers. "And now I'm done for a while. I told the team I'm off the grid for the next several weeks."

Jess eased away and quirked an eyebrow. "In that case, I have just the thing for you." She grasped his hand and led him toward the bathroom. "You've been living out of your go bag and on transport flights for almost two weeks." Her free hand twisted the water on in the shower. "You need a super-hot shower to work out the kinks and cramps." She made quick work of getting him naked.

Murph didn't argue, letting her do the disrobing. When she stepped back so he could get under the steamy spray, he caught her by surprise, dragging her into the stall with him.

He dragged her shirt over her head. "You didn't think I'd shower alone after being away from you for so long, did you?" His fingers inched under the wet fabric of her pants, working the form-fitting material past her hips.

Jess shook her head and wriggled the rest of the way out of the leggings. "Not really, no." Pushing the sodden mass of clothes to the corner of the stall, she tilted her chin up, meeting Murph's gaze. "Thought you might let me get undressed first, though."

Murph skimmed his hands along her sides, reaching around to cup her ass. "Now where's the fun in that?"

I love revisiting my favorite characters and seeing where they are in life. Murph and Jess also feature in the other Capital City Seasons books, which are all underway and in various stages of completion.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: A Day in the Life

Wow, survived something of a long week. Just now catching up on Orphan Black and again, this show eats my brain. I'm about halfway through this week's episode and I'm sitting on the edge of my seat as I type this. LOL

Tonight's post is from A Day in the Life, a free read and companion piece for one of my first releases, Shyler: Finding Home, a Furlough 99 novella. Told from an awesomely cool droid's point of view, I hope it provides as much entertainment as it did when I wrote it.

Here's the tagline:

Alphie is a kick ass droid who assists Inspector Shyler Lumen. He's also not afraid to offer unwarranted advice.

And a sneaky peek…

Just when he thought his circuitry would fry from the banality of it all, he spotted a dynamic woman exited a civilian transport. She looked determined, cranky and in a rush. Also somewhat lost.

Alphie decided she needed his brand of humor to shake her up a little.

He moved to stand in an obvious location. Hopefully she'd need assistance and ask him for help.

She moved in his direction and Alphie tugged on the bottom of his vest, catching her eye. With a quick wave, she indicated she'd like to speak with him.

Alphie started toward her.

"Can you tell me who runs security on Furlough and where the best place to meet would be?" Her eyes narrowed and he knew the moment it pinged that he was a droid. "And um… maybe how I can get a message to them."

Alphie gave her credit. Clearly caught off guard, she kept it all business, going with the flow until she could figure out how advanced his model was.

He quickly scanned through his personality files and picked one he thought she'd enjoy. His eyes blinked rapidly several times, spooling the information then he looked directly at the woman.

"Oh, they'll find you, sweetie cakes. Trust me."

The woman laughed out loud and seemed much more at ease. She didn't have a backwater planet look to her. No, more like a big city vibe, one that would not be offended by something a little off beat. His over the top drag queen persona definitely did the trick.

Mission one accomplished.

Oops. Maybe not. Her gaze slid sideways and she narrowed her eyes. The earlier outburst stopped a gentleman on the glide path in his tracks.

Alphie immediately recognized him. Marshton Gray. Stakeholder in Furlough 99, Luxury Quadrant and head of Grayswell Industries. And someone the woman thought she should know.

She must be from Queen City, Mars, but clearly didn't move in the same circles as Gray. Her eyes followed him, like she'd seen him before but couldn’t place where.

She dismissed him and focused on Alphie. "I'm sorry. They'll find me?"

Her jaw dropped open when he rolled his eyes. "Sweetie cakes, you've got enforcement written all over you." He added air quotes to emphasize enforcement and she chuckled.

"I'm ISP. Not exactly trying to hide it. Don't have time to waste going covert." She glanced toward Gray again and he moved away slowly, maybe too slowly and Alphie wondered if it piqued her curiosity or if he'd have to call for the security team she wanted to see.

Maybe if he distracted her. "Hmm… Inter-Stellar Police, not exactly total enforcement. At least not the kind we used to have around here. You guys at least provide trials for the accused." He'd been around long enough to have that unpleasant data stored in his memory banks.

The inspector, from her demeanor she had to at least have rank, clearly didn't know what to make of his off the cuff observation. He liked that.

She got back to business. "Give me a public place that has privacy so I can park it until the security people find me."

He scrolled through several locations before choosing what he perceived as the best one. "You'll want the Den." Oops, her first time here, she wouldn't know the shorthand nickname. He clarified. "Den of Iniquity… the bar up on Level 4. Ask for Varina, she'll point you to a place you can 'park it'."

"Right. Thanks."

The inspector strode away and Alphie had a feeling he'd be seeing or hearing from her again in the near future.

He'd look forward to it. But first, he probably ought to assist the very lost looking couple over by the food court.

Seriously, I loved writing Alphie so much I had to give him a brief spotlight of his own.

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

ML Skye