Sunday Snippet: Passing Ships in the Night

We definitely had a hot week and I'm so glad I got rid of most of the yucky upper respiratory crud. We're due for some major storms later today so that should be interesting.

I'm still not quite caught up on my work projects but I'm making headway. Thankfully none of them have red line due dates. I did manage to finish a proofread and will be sending it on its merry way later today. I still have another proofread and a copy edit to work on this week.

Had an almost nonexistent viewing week. Between playing catch up on my work projects and still being kind of bleh, I stuck with my comfort viewing of Perry Mason and Midsomer Murders. I did work in a few binge episodes of Death in Paradise on regular television.

That said, I did start the new season of My Life Is Murder and I'm loving the premiere episode so far. So nice to have Alexa and Madison back!

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Passing Ships in the Night, a novella that follows two people very focused on their careers and how they become a couple … or not.

Here's the miniblurb:

Renny Spur and Chad Raxton have something of an understanding—they meet at the Moonstar shipyard whenever they're in the Milky Way galaxy. When Chad's late for a connection, Renny gets angry and makes a bad choice—one Chad has to decide if he can overlook.

And a sneaky peek…

Renny leaned back and groaned. "You were so right about the Talithian food. It's amazing." She grimaced. "But I might not be able to leave the restaurant. I'm disgustingly full." She placed her palms on her stomach.

Chad gaze drifted from her hands upward, appreciation creeping into the irises. "You don't look any worse for the partaking of the premium meal. In fact, you look pretty damn good." His lips kicked up in a grin.

She basked in the compliment. "Uh, thanks. But you might have to roll me out of here." Or help her burn off the extra calories in a different way.

He didn't hide his interest and she teetered on the edge of making a big decision. Everything about spending time with him had her craving more. A rare occurrence because she didn't connect with people often. But Chad made it easy.

What an amazing experience. He could keep a conversation going, as good at listening as regaling her with stories of growing up with Mac. And he asked great questions, interested in how she ended up with a degree and her pilot quals.

How long had it been since she'd engaged with someone on more than a periphery level?

Too long.

Because she'd been so focused on her goals. Random hookups were the norm for her. But Chad made her want to see if she could do something deeper.

Did he feel the same?

She might as well test the waters. "So … you're on station until next week? Got any plans for the rest of the night?" Her limited window of opportunity didn't give them a lot of time.

Chad's mouth twisted in a wolfish grin. "Since Mac is otherwise occupied, I do not." He extended his hand toward her. "Unless you have some ideas."

Renny smiled, big and wide. "As a matter of fact … I do." She clasped his fingers and slowly got to her feet. "If you're game."

Chad stood up and hauled her close. "I'm definitely game." With another flash of a heated gaze, he led her from the restaurant.

I'm having fun with the concept of this story. It's a challenge to write the connection the characters have when they really don't get to be physically present with each other very often.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Passing Ships in the Night

Ugh. Had a rough week in general. My work project is coming along nicely but we had storms blow through and lost power a couple of times, which kind of harshed my vibe in a big way.

I got less television viewed but I did get to finish out the second season of the Passionflix original Driven. Man … what an ending. I'm truly excited for season three next year.

I did catch another episode of New Rugrats. I'm thoroughly enjoying this show and I'll state for the record that I hope there will be another season. So much fun.

Watched a full episode of Chicago Med and started another one. I'm not sure about the new head of Rhodes's department but their interactions are very interesting.

Got another episode of The Brokenwood Mysteries out of the way and one of my favorite things about this show is how we see some familiar faces from other episodes pop up. I really like that, especially since they were suspects before in a different case. Very cool.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness. Interesting concept on this one and I vaguely remember bits and pieces from the episodes but can't remember how things got resolved. I'll look forward to seeing the second part.

Enjoyed another arc of Classic Who. Interesting concept and the resolution ended up being something I didn't expect. Hope to start a new arc this week.

Caught another episode of UFO Witness and rather enjoyed it. This one had a regression so an abductee could maybe remember what happened to him. Ended up being pretty interesting to watch.

Watched two episodes of The Muppet Show with Liberace and Marisa Berenson as the guest stars. Enjoyed both.

Still loving McCartney 3, 2, 1. I always end up being blown away by something every episode. It's also a lot of fun to watch Paul pick up an instrument and play or see him sing along at the mixing board. Love this show.

Enjoyed another Master Class with LeVar Burton. This lesson focused on the imagination being our superpower. I love listening to LeVar talk about storytelling.

Started an episode of Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and … well … I didn't finish it. I really enjoy most of the characters, especially Hilda and Ambrose, Doctor Cee, Theo, Harvey, and Roz. I like Nick a lot. Even the weird sisters are often entertaining. But it really bugs me how Sabrina started out being decent at communication and now she massively sucks at it. The whole asking for advice then doing the exact opposite—without a really good reason other than it's what she wants to do—is starting to annoy me enough to stop watching for now. I might come back to the show eventually but there are other things on Netflix I'd like to get to so Sabrina can wait for bit.

Watched another episode of Star Trek: Discovery. Man. I'm starting to really love this show. There's a lot of nuance, which I enjoy and I like trying to figure out if Lorca is an asshole or a genius … or both. Michael intrigues me to no end. I love mix of Vulcan logic with human foibles. She's such a cool character.

That's pretty much it for the weekly viewing update. Tonight's post is from Passing Ships in the Night, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Renny Spur and Chad Raxton have something of an understanding—they meet at the Moonstar shipyard whenever they're in the Milky Way galaxy. When Chad's late for a connection, Renny gets angry and makes a bad choice—one Chad has to decide if he can overlook.

And a sneaky peek…

Chad stood outside Renny's quarters while she ducked in to stow her gear. "Can't believe my luck." A stunning dinner partner falling into his lap … not what he expected on the short visit to Moonstar.

And his brother more or less handed her over on a silver platter. Good thing he's currently hot for the armory sergeant. Mac didn't care about gender. When his interest got piqued, he pursued his heart's desire.

Chad braced his shoulders on the wall. "Why can't I do that?" His luck with dating bordered on laughable.

He went out and hooked up frequently, but as of yet, no one sparked a yearning for more. Between recruiting and his other military duties, he didn't exactly have a lot of time to dedicate to a relationship. But … he'd like to find someone to share things with.

The door slid open and Renny stepped out. Something about her drew him in. She looked fantastic, even in a standard-issue uniform. Am I being fanciful? Maybe, but she intrigued him.

He pushed away from the wall and grinned. "All set?" When she nodded, he jerked his head toward the causeway. "Food options are on level six. We can take the lift or we can use the autostairs. Any preference?" He hoped she'd opt for the steps … they'd see more of the base that way.

Renny shook her head. "No. Apparently, I'm here until the 1350 flight to the Ulysses tomorrow. I didn't think I'd get my assignment until the morning watch." She fell into step beside him. "Since this'll be the main hub I ship out from, let's take the autostairs." She paused a moment. "Unless you're starving?" Her head tilted to one side.

I'm starving for time with you.

Chad lifted a shoulder. "I'm hungry but I like taking the scenic route." He made a left and headed for the first set of rolling steps. "They have a good selection of eateries here. Pretty much anything you're in the mood for." He placed his foot on the first stair and held on to the side rail. "That's definitely not always the case with the star stations."

Renny followed quickly behind him then moved up to stand beside him. "How many have you been to?"

He snorted. "All but one. It's on my roster for next month." Out of twelve total … not bad for two years in his new post.

Her eyes widened. "You're not in one place very long, are you?"

His lips twitched. "It depends. I'm in recruiting and inspecting for flight squadrons. Sometimes I have a long jaunt at a star station or aboard a ship, but two weeks tends to be the standard." He wouldn't bore her with the mundane details. "Is the Ulysses your first star cruiser posting?" They stepped off the stairs on the third level and made their way to the next set.

Her head bobbed up and down. "It is. I've been stationed planetside for eighteen months. But my flying skill coupled with a degree in mechanical engineering put me on a fast track for deep space missions." She got on first this time.

His eyes went wide. "A degree and you fly? Damn, that's a heady mix." He chuckled. "You'll be in demand when you assume your post. Do you plan to go career in the military?" Reaching level six, he eased off the steps and quickly moved to the side.

She shrugged and glided off the stairs. "I'm not sure yet. I wanted practical experience and didn't want to wait for it. The firms I interviewed with had long probationary periods." She slid him a sideways glance. "I'm not known for having patience."

He laughed. "Good to know. How about we do a quick walk around up here so I can give you the rundown on the great food and not-so-great places." He swept an arm out. "Then you can choose where we eat."

She gave him a wide smile. "Sounds perfect."

He couldn't wait to hear more about her plans for the future.

I think I know where this one is going but it hasn't completely gelled yet, which I kind of enjoy. Chad and Renny definitely won't have a traditional or typical relationship.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Passing Ships in the Night

Hello, April. Nothing says spring like a very chilly Easter. According to the weather, snow might be in Ohio's forecast. Yay.

No worries, though. Cold weather makes for great television viewing. And this week didn't disappoint.

A great episode of Legends. Getting some information about Ava was kind of great. And Gary is awesome. I love that guy. I'm even kind of down with Damien being pretty funny for such a warped and twisted villain.

After griping about The Flash in my last post, I have to admit to thoroughly enjoying this week's episode. Nice to see Jessie back and also have a hint about a possible new Flash from another earth. Also great to have the team close to figuring out how the pocket 'verses work.

I'm still behind on Riverdale, but I did catch up with an episode. I like the interesting twist of having Clifford's brother added to the mix. But, yeah, Cheryl's not going to be in a good place. Someone needs to buy that girl a friend.

Arrow had a kick-ass episode. Giving Thea a dynamic out with Roy and Nyssa made me very happy. I'm not sure I'll like the John / Oliver direction, but I trust the writers to make it work. Having Curtis lament not having a good bantering partner also made the show.

Got a few episodes of Gotham in. For now, I'm trusting the new version of Ivy is a good thing. Having three different actresses play the role kind of makes me wary. We'll see if it's a plus as I get more episodes in. I loved the twists with Riddler / Ed and the direction Alfred and Butch's storylines are going in.

Finished up season five of Chicago Fire and got a start on six. Still loving it! Also started Blindspot on DVD. I'd already watched the first few episodes, but I'm glad to revisit them to get a refresher. Finished up season eleven of Murdoch Mysteries and, wow, even without a cliffhanger to end on, there's a buttload of tension to start season twelve. Gotta say I'm on the fence about the manipulations of Miss Hart. We'll see if that ends up being a good thing or not.

And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Passing Ships in the Night, a novella that started with a writing community prompt of set a story in a shipyard. This is a sci-fi group so the prompt spurred lots of ideas.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Renny Spur and Chad Raxton have something of an understanding—they meet at the Moonstar shipyard whenever they're in the Milky Way galaxy. When Chad's late for a connection, Renny gets angry and makes a bad choice—one Chad has to decide if he can overlook.

And a sneaky peek…

Renny Spur exited the small transport at her first real shipyard. "Wow… incredible." Her head craned around and she tried to take everything in.

A huge hangar bay housed multiple ships in every size. Battle frigates, transport hoppers, cabin cruisers, and luxury liners warred for space. The mix of military and civilian a sight to behold.

Renny moved forward, still gawking, and smashed into a wall of muscle. She dropped her rucksack and let out a muffled oath.

Big hands grasped her shoulders. "Hey there. Watch where you're going." The deep voice drew her attention to the person speaking.

A baby-faced guy who shouldn't have such a low timbre made her smile.

She stepped back, apologizing. "Yeah, sorry about that." Grabbing her rucksack, she hoisted it to her shoulder.

He flashed a dimpled smile. "First time, yeah?"

Her face flamed but she nodded. "Absolute freshboater, yes." Embarrassment crept up her spine.

The guy winked and stuck his hand out. "Mac Raxton. I was in your shoes about two weeks ago. Welcome to Moonstar Station."

Renny grasped his palm. "Renny Spur. Nice to meet you." She glanced around again, lost and bewildered.

Mac caught her reading the ticker boards. "You staying in a post here or passing through?"

She pushed down her overwhelming confusion. "Passing through. I'm picking up my ship assignment in the morning." Why did the signs have to be so chaotic?

Mac grabbed her shoulder and turned her in the opposite direction. "Okay, let's start with an intro to basic shipyard signage." He pointed out the color coding and the arrival and departure information.

In essence, he gave Renny a crash course, something she would have appreciated when she shipped out.

Mac rolled his eyes. "Are you kidding? The brass can't be bothered with giving the new recruits all the pertinent information. That's why they have guys like me."

Renny cocked her head to one side. "You're stationed here then?"

He nodded. "For the next four years. I'm apparently really good with logistics."

"Then why can't you ever find your ass unless it's handed to you?"

The question came from a guy standing behind them. Mac turned and his face lit up. Renny would've been ready to throw down over the insult.

Mac reached out and grabbed the guy into a huge bear hug. "Chad! Damn, bro, why didn't you tell me you were coming?"

Bro? As in brother? Okay, Renny got the resemblance after Mac stepped back. And… wow… good genes ran in the family. Built with lean muscle, Chad had the same height as Mac, but lacked the hulking frame. Where Mac had bulk and physical stature, his friendliness radiated from the boyish countenance. But Chad… could stop traffic with his handsomeness. Renny hoped like hell she managed not to gawk. But, geez, the guy should come with a warning label. Dark hair, chiseled cheeks perfect in the angular face, and eyes that probably didn't miss much in a shade of honeyed brown that no doubt warmed people from the inside out.

Chad nodded in Renny's direction. "Care to make the introductions, Mac? Or did you forget the manners Mom tried to drum into us?" His gaze lingered on Renny's face, giving her no doubt about his interest.

Score one for the freshboater.

Mac's lips quirked. "Yeah, yeah. Renny Spur, this is my older, pain-in-the-ass brother, Chad. Don't let his good looks put you off. He's a fairly decent guy when women aren't falling all over him." He gave Chad a smug look.

Chad snorted. "Don't listen to him. I'm a decent guy all the time. Mac's the one who's hit or miss." He flashed a smile and stuck his hand out.

Renny chuckled. "Nice to meet you. But I'd have to argue your point. Mac's been a huge help with figuring out where I need to go and when to be there." She grasped Chad's palm and got an instant zing.

A dangerous dilemma. Renny didn't always have the best luck with hot guys.

Chad's eyebrows rose. "First time on station?" He shot his brother a sideways glance. "Do you mind if we add one for dinner tonight?"

Mac flushed. "Uh… sorry, bro. Can't do dinner. Since I didn't know you'd be here, I made a date with a smokin' armory sergeant and he's buying." He sent Chad a sheepish grin. "Been after this guy for a while now."

Chad held up his hands. "By all means, say no more." He focused on Renny. "The invitation stands, unless you have other plans, too."

She shook her head. "Uh, no. No plans. But you don't have to do that—"

Mac cut in. "Trust me, Renny. Chad hates to eat alone." He leaned in close to whisper. "I'll vouch for him. He doesn't bite."

Chad nudged his brother on the shoulder. "Shut up. I can make my own dates." He met Renny's gaze. "He's right though. I'd rather have company for a meal. But I'll understand if you'd rather not eat with a stranger."

Renny feared she'd want more than a meal with Chad, but what the hell? "No, I don't mind. I just need to find my quarters and drop my gear there." And maybe run a brush through her hair and attempt to look presentable.

Chad crooked his elbow. "Then, please, allow me to escort you there and then I'll show where the good food can be found."

She grinned and wrapped her fingers around his bicep.

Chad glanced at his brother. "Catch up tomorrow?"

Mac nodded. "You know where to find me." He turned to Renny. "If he misbehaves, track me down and I'll handle it." He gave her another wink.

Renny laughed. "I'll do that. And thanks. You've got a friend for life after helping me figure everything out."

Mac waggled his eyebrows. "It's a gift. Freshboaters are my specialty." He lifted a hand in farewell and left her with Chad.

He snorted. "You'd think he'd been on Moonstar for years when it's only been a few weeks." He led Renny from the hangar deck out into the main station. "By the way…" He lowered his voice and leaned in close. "I really don't bite… unless I'm asked to."

Renny almost burst out laughing, but managed to keep a straight face. "That's good to know." She tightened her grip on his bicep for a moment.

Dinner and whatever came after should prove to be an interesting affair.

I'm excited to see where this story goes. It's coming together in small increments, but the sages like pondering what comes next.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Passing Ships in the Night

May 3, 2015

Happy May! We had terrific weather this weekend and I feel like spring has finally arrived. YAY!!

On the TV front, Arrow and The Flash kind of blew my mind. I'm not sure the final episodes can get any more mind bending. LOL Of course, Orphan Black is always twisty and freaky, but the sibling reveal adds a very cool layer. Won't go into specifics here so I don't spoil anyone, but I'm looking forward to seeing more about the new wrinkle.

Bitten and Lost Girl are such a great pair-up on Syfy. And I'm eagerly awaiting Killjoys and Dark Matter. I'd love Syfy to be my place to be on Fridays again. Been way too many years since that's happened.

Starting on Teen Wolf season three and gotta say, I truly enjoy the show. So far, it's lived up to its hype.

And that's it for television this week.

Tonight's post is from Passing Ships in the Night, a sexy short where my characters have to find their way back to each other.

Here's the tagline:

Renny Spur and Chad Raxton have something of an understanding—they meet at the Moonstar shipyard whenever they're in the Milky Way galaxy. When Chad's late for a connection, Renny gets angry and makes a bad choice—one Chad has to decide if he can overlook.

And a sneaky peek…

"Hey, Ren, how's it going?" Mac Raxton fell into step beside her.

Renny closed her eyes for a moment before answering. "It goes, Mac. Did your brother send you?" Shit. Why had she asked about Chad?

Mac shot her a sideways glance. "Contrary to popular opinion, just because Chad's the older one doesn't mean he controls my every move." His head shook back and forth. "Seriously, Renny, how long have you known me?"

She lifted a shoulder. "How long have you worked on Moonstar?" She didn't like being called out for her stupid comments.

Mac grabbed her bicep in a loose grip. "Eight years, Ren. I started here right after basic." He stopped walking, halting her progress. "What's going on with you and Chad?"

She gave him a twisted smile. "Not a damned thing." Pulling free, she walked away and didn't look back.

Renny just told a huge whopper of a lie, but it won't take long for word to get back to Chad. Little brothers are great for stuff like that. (Says the sister with two little bros.)

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

ML Skye