Sunday Snippet: One Hot Mess

Happy US Mother's Day to those who celebrate. For those with parental issues, I hope you find joy and peace.

Had the rare experience of seeing the northern lights in Ohio. I can honestly say I haven't been so excited about something in a long time. The mysteries of space are awesome!

Fairly busy week with work projects and other odds and ends. Finished up a couple of manuscripts and started a new one. I have another ongoing developmental edit that I need to dive back into this week.

Not a bad week of viewing even with a few distractions. I'm at a weird place with watching right now. I'm kind of leaning toward doing binge marathons again and I'm not sure I want to fall down that rabbit hole again.

Caught two episodes of Suspects and enjoyed both. This show is kind of choppy and that adds something to the experience. I love the cases and how things are rarely what they seem from the initial starting point.

Finished up the third season of Madame Blanc Mysteries. I'd love to see another series of this show. The cast is a lot of fun.

Watched two episodes of Silent Witness. I've realized that after the next one, I'm completely caught up with the show. I really like the current cast and I'm excited to see what the next season brings.

Enjoyed an episode of Death in Paradise. This is one I hadn't seen before and I liked the case. I'm also enjoying Jack's tenure as DI.

I think I finished out the first season of Elementary. I'm actually thrilled with how the Moriarity plot played out. I love seeing Joan kind of step in to the role of consulting detective with ease and grace. The things she sees that Sherlock doesn't is always interesting.

Watched another episode of The Batman. Nice to see Ethan back again. I'm a little bummed we haven't seen Chen for a while and I can't remember if she comes back or not.

Enjoyed the Valentine episode of Classic Rugrats. I do remember this one but not everything about it. Nice to see some longer length episodes also.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from One Hot Mess, a novella that brings a couple together after a night of revelry.

Here's the miniblurb:

Eva Twine and Van Jefferson have a very friendly rivalry when their teams compete for the galaxy championship. But when Van questions what Eva will wear to the celebratory masquerade, she decides to rock his very foundation.

And a sneaky peek…

Van Jefferson stood under a blast of steaming water, letting it work the kinks out of his shoulders. The Interplanetary Police Force battle of the precincts ended on a high note for him. His squadron from Venus took top honors.

Knocked the Mars crew down a peg.

No easy feat, the team from the red planet had won the battle five years running and the rivalry, while friendly, finally took a step in the right direction. Van shut off the shower and stepped out of the stall. About damn time. If he had to listen to Eva Twine cackle and crow about winning again he'd have lost his mind.

The woman made him insane. And usually not in a good way. Even though he found her wildly attractive. She also frustrated the life out of him sometimes.

The creak of a door and an off-key humming sound alerted him to someone's presence.

Speak of the devil.

Eva sauntered into the head—how she could do that with an injured foot, he'd never understand—and started stripping off her clothes.

"If you give me a few, you can have the place to yourself." Van walked into the changing area and pried open his locker.

Eva smirked and shoved her pants past her hips. "I kinda have to hurry. Doc took an x-ray and gave me fifteen to get showered and back to the infirmary." Her fingers slid under the waistband of her panties. "If you can't handle the show, you'd better leave now."

Right. He'd go hang out in the quadrant wearing a towel so she could shower. Not likely.

He raised a brow. "I doubt you have anything I haven't seen before." He reached for his shirt.

Eva chuckled and tugged her tank over her head. "Good to know." She crisscrossed her arms and pulled her sports bra off, giving him her back as she turned. "Congrats on the victory, by the way. They carted me out before I had a chance to say anything."

Van waited a beat, thinking she'd add a snarky insult to the compliment. She glanced over her shoulder, one eyebrow arched.

He nodded. "Thanks."

She grabbed a towel and flung it over around her neck. "You headed out or sticking around for the festivities?"

The IPF planned a huge masquerade to top off the week. All participants in the battle automatically received invitations.

Van grinned. "I'm staying. My chief informed us if anyone tried to beg off, he'd bust us all back to beat cop."

Eva snorted. "That would suck balls." Grabbing her kit she headed toward the showers. "Guess I'll see you there then. Don't forget your costume." She called back over her shoulder. "Remember no beat cop uniforms allowed."

Van chuckled. "I've got it covered." He grabbed his pants. "You?"

She turned the water on and let it heat up. "Oh yeah. No worries."

He couldn't resist. "Let me guess? You're gonna show up as a sky hawg rider." His gaze slid to her discarded tank, the logo of the sky cycle manufacturer emblazoned across the front.

Eva's smirked again. "Ha-ha." She stepped under the spray of water. "Get out of here. I'm down to seven minutes."

Effectively dismissed, Van finished dressing and exited the head. The exchange with Eva had gone better than he'd hoped. Defeat had toned down her brash bravado.

Or maybe pain did. He'd noticed she'd favored her injured foot when she stepped under the water. He hoped it wouldn't keep her from the party.

This story took on a life of its own and I'm happy it did. Eva and Van are so much fun!

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Drink Me (Bonus scene for One Hot Mess)

Had a wild week with several work projects coming in hot and taxiing on the runway. Also had some wild weather, which isn't a big shock. We're supposed to be chilly again sometime next week, which I'm not looking forward to.

Very slow week of viewing. Between the work projects, weather, and an award ceremony for my daughter's university, I didn't get a lot watched.

I did get another episode of Pennyworth watched and, ugh, it kind of broke my heart. The fallout is not going to be pretty, I'm sure.

Watched one my very favorite episodes of Battlestar Galactica with "Tigh Me Up, Tigh Me Down." Seriously, the acting in this episode is beyond stellar. The dinner party from hell has to be one of the funniest scenes in the entire series, which okay, might not be saying much because the subject matter of the series isn't always open to humor. But kudos to the writers for working it in whenever they could.

I also started a new episode of Wednesday and I'm definitely settling in and enjoying the wild ride. The snark is top notch and Wednesday's quest to find answers that keeps generating more questions intrigues me. I love this show.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Drink Me, a sexy short bonus read 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 preview snippet…

Van poured another round. "Here's to a brief moment of calm in our otherwise intense and blistering schedule." He lifted his glass.

Eva smirked and raised hers. "I'll drink to that." She let the alcohol slide down her throat.

Mesmerized, Van swallowed hard. He couldn't get over seeing a different side to Eva. She never ceased to amaze him. In the arena, she proved to be a stellar opponent, going after points with a warrior's mindset. She dripped with sweat and often blood by the end of a match.

She'd transformed herself tonight and he liked the sultry vixen she revealed. Who knew a veritable siren who loved to flirt existed under the bravado and brash boldness of the athlete? Well, he did … now.

Eva snapped her fingers. "Hey, where'd you go? Please don't make me do something crazy like singing the latest chart-topper…" She chuckled. "Or, even better, an old standby from our grandparents' era." Her finger traced the rim of the tumbler.

Van's eyes widened. "You mean one of those torch songs? The kind they always sang in the smoky jazz clubs?" Color him shocked. "Those date back several centuries ago. How come you're familiar with them?" Her costume made some much sense now.

Eva poured two more shots, the bottle at the halfway mark. "My grandparents were mad for early twentieth-century stuff. Specifically, anything from the nineteen twenties through the sixties." She shrugged. "Their love rubbed off on me."

Van shook his head. "Everything old is new again. Mine loved stuff from even earlier, like the nineteenth century." Hence his detective garb.

Eva flashed a quick smile. "Amazing what you find out with a little conversation." She raised her shot. "To all things retro, vintage, and really, really old." Her lips twitched and she laughed.

Van got into the spirit. "Let's throw in ancient and fossilized, too." He downed the vodka, welcoming the smooth sting against his throat.

Eva let out another laugh, this one loud and merry.

Mac returned. "You two are having way too much fun over here. Need anything else?"

Van gave a quick back and forth. "Nah, we're good. Discovering our grandparents share a weird affinity for relics and antiques." And that Eva had an incredibly sexy laugh.

Van and Eva are a fun couple to write and this scene fills in a blank from their story, which I hope to finish up soon and get out there for all to read.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: One Hot Mess

Happy Independence Day if you're in the US. If not, I hope you're having a terrific weekend. Our weather is very pleasant and mild so I'm not going to complain about that. I will express frustration with random people letting off fireworks, but only because our doggos hate them.

Had a truly jam-packed, great television viewing week. Started and ended the week with No Offence. I finished up the series and I'm not disappointed at all. What a experience!

Also watched Silent Witness and I'm almost through the second episode of the two-parter. I watched the first part at the end of last week and should have this one finished up by the time I'm ready to post this blog entry.

Caught another arc of Classic Who. The fifth part of the key has been found so I'm almost ready for season sixteen to come to a close. So far, I've been on the fence with this season but it's enjoyable.

Watched an episode of UFOs: The Lost Evidence. This one dived into the cover-ups in the US. I'm always fascinated by how much this show reminds me of the X-Files. I love it.

Enjoyed two more episodes of The Muppet Show. Rudolf Nereyev and Elton John were the guest stars. Really enjoyed Elton.

Caught an episode of Peak Practice. I'm starting to like the new doctor. He kind of rubs everyone the wrong way but I truly feel for the guy coming to a small village where the residents are all used to things being a specific way.

The Hardy Boys had a terrific episode. I'm kind of interested in how the boys are dealing with starting at a new school and uncovering their mom's past there.

Dove into another Master Class with David Carson. I didn't think I'd get much out of the whole collage lesson but I did walk away with a few ideas about how textures and colors work together on a physical level.

Watched Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and, wow, Sabrina definitely had a bomb blow up in her face. I'm kind of glad to see it but also now wondering how everything is going to play out. Still not a big fan of Wardwell.

Caught another episode of Street Legal and thoroughly enjoyed. I'll be honest … I'm not always a fan of Olivia but I enjoyed her interaction with Emily. I'm also really interested in the dynamics of the partners. Definitely going to enjoy watching the rest of the episodes.

The Ready Room had a great recap and family reunion with Wil, Jonathan, and Brent. Such a fun episode and really looking forward to the next one.

Caught an episode of Chicago Med and really enjoyed it. I'm totally down for the rivalry between Halsted and Rhodes but I'm looking forward to when they're really great friends too.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers. I'm kind of interested in how this one plays out because Nick has been getting on my nerves lately. We'll see if that improves or not.

And that's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from One Hot Mess, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Eva Twine and Van Jefferson have a very friendly rivalry when their teams compete for the galaxy championship. But when Van questions what Eva will wear to the celebratory masquerade, she decides to rock his very foundation.

And a sneaky peek…

Eva ordered a drink at the bar. She felt very conspicuous in the killer dress even if it seemed to have the desired effect. More than one head did a double take when she'd walked into the ballroom.

Too bad none of those second looks had come from the source she wanted.

The bartender placed a scotch and water in front of her. She picked it up and took a sip then narrowed her eyes in his direction. The guy's lips quirked and he winked at her.

"Don't look now, but I think you've got an admirer." He quickly picked up a bin full of empty glasses and made tracks to the sink.

Had Van finally shown?

Eva turned around slowly and fought the urge to laugh out loud at the pole axed look on his face. Okay, the dress and heels? Totally worth it.

Van's gaze traveled slowly up and down. "Eva?" His eyes raked over her again. "Wow."

She lifted a brow. "What? Didn't think I had it in me to pull off a chanteuse?" Another nice, slow sip from the scotch and water gave him time to work his tongue loose and provide an answer.

He let out a low whistle. "No." He frowned. "Er, wait. That's not what I mean."

She chuckled. "Telling me I look kick ass awesome would not be remiss." Her lips curved in a smile.

Van licked his lips, his eyes going over her from head to toe again. "You do. Amazing." He met her gaze again. "No, incredible." Beautiful.

She rolled her eyes. "Don't get used to it. Me in a getup like this might be a once in a lifetime deal." Draining her glass, she set it back on the bar.

Van moved to stand beside her. "Well, I'm glad I got to witness it then." He reached out but drew his hand back and shoved it in a pocket.

Eva finally registered his costume. He'd gone old world detective. It should have looked very clichéd, but on him, somehow it came across as authentic. Right down to the concealed weapon in the cane.

She sent him a crooked grin. "Look at you. Interesting choice." And strangely hot, but she kept that to herself. "Very cloak and dagger."

This one is so much fun to write. Eva and Van have terrific chemistry and I love how this book is coming together.

 

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: One Hot Mess

Slow week in television due to the Olympics, but that's okay. I enjoy being a casual viewer of the coverage and there have been some terrific events. Watching Virture | Mior during ice dancing is such a joy. They're unmatched by anyone else.

Legends of Tomorrow returned on Monday and while I'm kind of "meh" about the move to a new night, I did love the episode. Nice to see the group dealing with Firestorm being gone. Also kind of cool to see Mick step into something of a leadership role, even if he'd never own doing it. LOL

I had the chance to catch up on my period dramas. Murdoch Mysteries is having some fun with Julia's pregnancy and I kind of like how she's dealing with everything. Frankie Drake Mysteries keeps getting better. I love the varied types of cases Frankie and Trudy get involved in.

Also caught another five episodes of Chicago Fire. Season four is diving into things on a much deeper level and I like where the characters are right now. It's been fun watching Severide pull himself back up from his demotion. I even sort of enjoyed Patterson figuring out what really matters at fifty-one. Not sure I'm totally down with him becoming a battalion chief but, yeah, I can live with it. LOL

I didn't get the chance to watch more of The Punisher, but I'll be catching some episodes this weekend. Also still need to watch the latest Riverdale before the show returns after the Olympics.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from One Hot Mess, a novella that started with an idea of a character waking up next to someone and not remembering how they got there. Oh… and they're naked.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Eva Twine and Van Jefferson have a very friendly rivalry when their teams compete for the galaxy championship. But when Van questions what Eva will wear to the celebratory masquerade, she decides to rock his very foundation.

And a sneaky peek…

Eva soaped up her skin, the hot steam of the shower easing her aching muscles. Her foot throbbed and she kept most of her weight off that side. Made the shower go must faster than normal.

She lathered up her hair and shook her head. Leave it to Van to assume she'd show up as a Sky Hawg poster girl. And okay… that might have been her original plan, but not anymore.

Something about the sexy smirk on his face made her want to wipe it off in a spectacular fashion. "Oh, Van, you think you know me… but you so don't." Eva let several ideas roll around in her head.

She had to find something killer to wear for the costume ball. A dress. A gorgeous one. Ugh… and heels. She didn't wear them often, who liked to torture themselves? But her legs looked kick ass great when she did.

Hopefully her foot didn't have any broken bones. The universe would not be that cruel. She had a point to make. Her team might have lost the battle, but she had a chance to beat Van by proving his expectations so very wrong.

She laughed. "How effing awesome? Kinda like kismet for the big loss."

Shutting off the water, Eva quickly toweled off and pulled on some clothes. She had to check in with the infirmary doc and see what the x-ray showed. Head still full of ideas, Eva started down the corridor, oblivious to anyone else passing by. She favored her injured foot, but cut a quick path through the throngs of people and burned a steady trail toward the lower level. Making her way down the steps, she made a quick decision to do the heels even if her foot had broken bones. At least until Van got a good, long look at her. Grinning wide, she made the turn and entered the infirmary.

She couldn't wait to get the all clear… "Geez, it's been years passed since I've actually wanted to go shopping." The exorbitant amount she'd spend didn't irritate her either.

She firmly decided not to examine the reason why Van Jefferson inspired so much competitiveness she'd go to great lengths to show him up. The challenge of rocking his world a fun one she deserved after taking one for the team.

Laughing, she sat up on the exam table and waited for the doc. "Poor guy won't know what hit him."

Eva and Van are on the path to something more… who knows if it'll work out but they'll have fun testing the waters.

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: 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: One Hot Mess

Greetings!

It's been a truly long week, but Strike Back remains a bright spot. I'm utterly fascinated by Dalton and how much she's crossing the line (if there is a line LOL)

I've also been rewatching Farscape on Pivot. I love it when newish channels air one of my favorite shows. Farscape ranks in my top five of all time winners.

Tonight's post is a speculative romance, One Hot Mess, and it's a complete joy to write. I love it when the sages have fun and they're having a wicked good time with this story.

Here's the tagline:

Eva Twine and Van Jefferson have a very friendly rivalry when their teams compete for the galaxy championship. But when Van questions what Eva will wear to the celebratory masquerade, she decides to rock his very foundation.

And a sneaky peek…

Ducking into a boutique, Eva spent all of five minutes scanning the racks before the overpowering aromatherapy scents had her dashing back out to the concourse. She walked past several shops and found another location with appropriate attire. Entering the store, Eva rolled her eyes. Filled with scanty costumes and barely there designs in filmy fabrics, she snorted with disgust. She wanted something sexy and sensual, not tarty and vixenish. The costumes were so low cut, Eva figured she'd spend more time trying to keep her boobs from falling out than enjoying herself.

Screw that.

She exited the shop and almost decided to forget the whole deal. She could always stay with the casual look and forget Van. Bah. Eva had the idea in her head now and didn't want to let go of it. She stopped in front of a bridal outlet and tilted her head sideways, taking in the rainbow of colors displayed in the window. The cut and style of the dresses drew her in and inspiration struck. Why look in the obvious places for something to wear for the masquerade when the perfect item could be found elsewhere.

Letting a grin cross her face, Eva entered the shop and waved off the gaggle of sales associates. She'd find what she wanted on her own then call someone over. Maybe.

Rifling through the vast selection, Eva found a gown made of gossamer looking fabric that seemed to shimmer with iridescence. If she wanted to dress up as a fae creature it would be the perfect thing to wear. Rejecting that idea, she moved on to the next rack and passed over the dresses that truly screamed 'bridal party' and wrinkled her nose at the pastel confections that made her teeth hurt looking at them. She almost turned away to head toward another section of the store when a flash of green caught her eye.

Buried between a hot pink strapless cocktail dress and a gold, off the shoulder gown, Eva pulled a gorgeous emerald green dress from the rack. She'd found the perfect thing to wear, with a form fitting bodice that would accent her cleavage instead of putting it on display, and a frothy skirt that fell in asymmetrical waves from the bust line. The tiny, thin straps had just a touch of shiny thread woven in to catch the light and draw attention to her face. She'd look like one of the glamorous singers from centuries ago.

Satisfied with her find, she set off in search of some heels to go with it. Meandering through the displays, Eva finally found a killer pair of shoes. Forest green with metallic accents, the open-toed pumps fit the image in her head. She tried one on and found it more comfortable than expected. Grabbing the box, she took her choices to the first sales associate she came across and made her purchase.

Exiting the shop, she made her way toward the guest quarters with a wide grin on her face. Van would swallow his tongue when he got a good look at her. She slowed her pace. Did she really want that reaction? They had a very friendly rivalry. Did they need to add a bunch of tension to mess that up?

She thought about it once she entered her room. Maybe she and Van did need to shake things up a bit. The guy was intelligent, highly skilled, and damned hot. Why not let her hair down a little and show him a different side? He'd made an assumption about her and while based on fact, he didn't have the whole picture of what made Eva Twine tick. He'd only seen glimpses of what lay underneath.

But Van definitely knew the cocky, self-assured and okay, sometimes crazy cop side of her. He'd get a good dose of the other woman at the masquerade. A little excited by the prospect, Eva sat down and started the process of getting ready to knock his world of its axis.

Her lips turned up. She'd done that once before. Their first meeting set the tone for everything that followed between them. On a dare, she'd gone screaming down a back alley behind the academy—blindfolded—on her sky hawg. To date, she still had no idea what instinct kicked in and made her veer in a quick turn, but she thanked the universe for it. Van narrowly missed a road kill death when he exited out the night watch access point. He ate some loose gravel and a shit ton of debris her thrust kicked up when she made the sharp slide.

But at least he didn't end up dead.

LOL. It's always fun when characters meet in a very unexpected way, don't you think?

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

ML Skye