Sunday Snippet: Hard Call

I sometimes wonder if time is speeding up. The week flew by. Then again, I have multiple work projects going right now and they're all at different stages.

Had a decent week of television viewing. Not quite as heavy as last week but I got through a full round of my current shows.

Actually started and ended the week with Classic Rugrats. I'm currently watching season five and it's weirdly missing Susie Carmichael. Maybe there's more of her in the later episodes.

Finished up the second season of Madame Blanc Mysteries. Ended up fairly pleased with the resolution of Jean's stalker. Very glad and hopeful we don't have to see more of her.

Caught another episode of Cannes Confidential. I seriously love this show. The cast is amazing and the chemistry with all of them is terrific. I have a very sneaky suspicion one of the main characters is going to be a bad guy and I'm actually kind of here for that if it happens.

Watched another episode of Peak Practice. I have two left in season nine and it's going to be kind of heartbreaking because I know what's coming. Also, Andrew is seriously annoying right now and I'm not sure if he'll improve or not.

Continued my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica with "Scar." This is another one of my favorite episodes even if, like "Black Market," there are some big flaws with development for later episodes. One of the best conversations of the entire series is in this episode.

Finished up a two-part Silent Witness. The culprit was indeed one of two characters I thought it might be. Such a great episode.

Started season two of Death in Paradise. Good opening episode with some familiar faces in the guest stars. I love catching my favorite actors in other roles.

Enjoyed an episode of Fantasy Island. So cool to kind of see how Elena assumed the role of host. I'm very curious about Ruby's mystery woman. I have a theory about her and I hope we get some answers before the end of the season.

Finished up season two of Strangest Things. I'd be interested in more episodes, but I won't hold my breath. The combination of Discovery and HBO Max is the stupidest thing ever and I'm honestly not sure I'll even continue trying to find show I want to watch.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Hard Call, a novella that sees one half of a couple put the other half in a precarious situation.

Here's the miniblurb:

Wiccam Kidder commands a space cruiser and wears the mantle of command with reluctance. When he makes a hard call and orders Valor Glynne to what may be a certain death, he wants to give up the burden and walk away. But Valor returns and Wic is faced with knowing she'll follow wherever he leads.

And a sneaky peek…

One level from the bottom Majah stopped. "This is as far as you go." She held up a hand to block Valor's path.

What the hell? She's wasting valuable and precious seconds.

Valor frowned. "We don't have time for this. Get moving!" She shouldn't be ordering her superior officer around.

Majah planted her hands on her hips. "We're making time. I'm ordering you to head back. You've got time to get clear." She gave Valor a dead-eyed stare.

Valor's mouth dropped open. "No way. This is a two-person job. We can't fail." Too much rode on the outcome of blowing this damned place to nothingness.

Namely giving the two most important people in her life an edge.

Majah dropped her pack to the floor. "We won't." She retrieved a spear gun and shot a dart into the wall then hooked a D-ring onto the rope. "I've got this." She carefully removed the protective covering from the explosive device, which had been covered with a framework of netting.

Valor blinked, the sheer genius of the solution kicking a measure of respect for her XO into gear.

But something didn't smell right.

Valor cocked her head. "Why didn't you mention this brilliant maneuver during the planning?" They'd run through a ton of simulations.

Majah's shoulders tensed for a moment but then she shrugged. "Only figured it out last night." Her tone all but dared Valor not to let the excuse slide.

Valor wanted to call bullshit but something in Majah's gaze—a desperate determination—stopped Valor.

Instead, she straightened. "Why?" She needed to understand.

Even though the clock ticked and burned through those precious seconds.

Majah squared her shoulders and met Valor's gaze head-on. "Because I lost a piece of myself here. They broke me, and planning this op made me realize I can't go back." She looked away. "I'm done. I can't live one more day constantly fighting to be the me I used to be." Her eyes closed for a moment then opened, clear and determined.

Valor couldn't find words to argue or counter the XO's clearly thought-out decision.

Majah shot another dart into the bulkhead beside Valor. "Go. Now." Keying in the launch code, Majah climbed on top of the crate and slowly hefted the explosive device into position. "I can get the rest from here." She started lowering the bomb down to the last level.

Valor opened her mouth, but Majah arched her brows and Valor gave a brief, terse nod instead.

Snapping to attention, she saluted. "Godspeed, sir."

Valor took one last look at her superior officer then turned and booked it up five levels, using minimal-range comms to radio ahead to the scout transport for a pickup. Her brain spun with Majah's revelations, but she couldn't take the time to unpack any of it right now. She dashed aboard the small ship and waited until they cleared the detonation zone. Twenty seconds later, she verified the explosion before radioing back to the ship. "Hathaway actual, scout two. Target removal confirmed." Cheers broke out on the other end of the comm.

She broke protocol by making the call. It should've come from ECO. But she wanted the Kidder men to know she'd survived.

Thanks to the sacrifice of a very troubled officer. Valor's gut clenched with the knowledge Majah shared. Valor finally understood the former XO a lot better now.

Unfortunately … a little too late.

I have a lot of love for this story. Writing this scene ended up being so much harder than I thought it would be, but I'm very happy with how it came together.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fyre's Masquerade (a Specter Station novella)

Had a busy week with a new work project landing in my inbox. It's a holiday novel and I'm so excited because I love editing holiday stories! I'm also working on a proofread, which is a nice complement to a copy edit.

Had a slow week of viewing due to another loss of a relative. 2023 has been a rough year for the older generation in my family. I hope the final months are loss free.

I did watch the premiere episode of Cannes Confidential and thoroughly enjoyed it! It's got intrigue and charm and the cast is stellar. Looking forward to the next episode.

Also caught another episode of the Madame Blanc Mysteries. I'm slightly disappointed in the angst factor between the main characters but I'll roll through and see what happens. Very excited Gloria has a new guy even if he's competition for Dom.

Watched an episode of Peak Practice and found it kind of interesting. I liked getting some additional screen time for the deaf characters introduced earlier. Also kind of liked Andrew figuring out what he doesn't want.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and, wow, this one had some twists and a heartbreaking scene that I almost couldn't watch. Kind of looking forward to seeing where it goes.

Caught another Death in Paradise. Enjoyed the guys trying to avoid bringing Richard in on the case while he was down with a tropical fever but loved that they ended up doing it anyway.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Fyre's Masquerade, a Specter Station novella.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Balek Fyre made his fortune mining asteroids and just became a principal owner of Specter Station. He's ready to enjoy a new stage in his life—until the Yuli family descends on his base of operations for the galactic midyear celebration with only one thing on their minds … getting him to marry their oldest daughter, Serena. The only problem? Balek would rather spend time with her sister, Scout.

And a sneaky peek…

"Mother, couldn't you get Scout to wear something other than those horrid black pants?" Serena Yuli shuddered.

Scout tore her gaze from the porthole and made a rude gesture. "Considering I've been dressing myself since the age of three, I'd have liked to see her try." She went back watching the stars go by.

Serena made a nasty comment under her breath about Scout's inability to look like more than an urchin. Scout didn't care what covered her body. Unlike Serena who always consulted their mother Zara before putting on clothes—even her underwear. How her sister made it to twenty-seven, Scout would never know.

Serena snarled. "You could have tried to look decent. We're hoping to make a good impression." She folded her hands in her lap and raised her nose in the air.

Scout snorted. "We've been on this ship for five days. None of us look our best. At least I'm comfortable." Her black canvas pants were soft with wear and her shirt and jacket were made of breathable fabric in the highest quality they could afford.

She could've swapped her rugged boots—broken in to a perfect fit—for her favorite pair of leather moccasins, but the heavier footwear drove her sister crazy and Scout needed something fun to do if she had to be part of this insane plot to trap a perfectly nice man into hellish matrimony with Serena.

Serena snapped. "No one cares about your comfort." She huffed out an angry breath.

Scout smirked. "Exactly. I'm not the one who needs to be impressive. You are." After five days with only two clothing changes, her sister definitely fell short. "What I'm wearing doesn't matter."

Niam Yuli snapped his fingers. "Enough, both of you. We're docking soon and everyone can freshen up." He shot Scout a hard look. "You're to be on your best behavior."

Scout rolled her eyes. "Yes, Dad." She'd play nice when she had to and not a moment before.

This stupid scheme to hold Balek Fyre to a promise his parents made decades ago reeked of desperation—and if he didn't see right through it, he deserved wedded hell with her sister. Scout had no doubt Balek didn't have a clue who they were. Why would he? His parents died not long after their ill-fated agreement with the Yulis. And the horrible thing? Her parents didn't care. They needed an influx of cash to save their asses. A series of bad investments had her parents teetering on the brink of financial ruin.

Scout rolled her eyes. "Maybe if they told Serena no every time she wanted a new outfit, they'd have some savings." Not that her parents ever would—they only said no to Scout.

The captain's voice came over the intercom. "We've started the docking sequence. Prepare to disembark in fifteen minutes." A garbled crackle ended the communication.

A tiny jolt of excitement coursed through Scout. While she hated the reason they'd come to Spector Station, she loved an adventure. And the idea of Serena falling flat on her face gave Scout something to look forward to also.

She smoothed down her hands down her thighs, straightening some of the wrinkles from her pants. "Let the games begin…"

I'm having a lot of fun writing this series and Balek's book is a treat. It's the last in the four-book series and all the previous couples make an appearance.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fail Me Now

Greetings! It's been another busy week and I'm still excited about my ongoing projects. They're completely different genres and it's fun to have that variety while working.

Somewhat limited viewing week again. I've been in a place where background noise is more distracting than helpful, which occasionally happens. I notice it more on day when I didn't get solid sleep the night before.

I did catch most of Pennyworth. I have the last act of the episode to watch. This show is dark in all the ways I like shows to be. And I love getting to see Alfred actually grieve. And having Ripper be the catalyst that pulls him out is kind of a master stroke. Such a great show!

Also continued my Battlestar Galactica rewatch. We started season two and the first ten episodes are so terrific. The second half of the season is also excellent, but I remember so much about those first ten.

That's pretty much it for the life update. I am hoping to get some gardening in this week so stay tuned.

Tonight's post is from Fail Me Now, a novella that brings the main characters together by having one being ordered to the bring the other into the fleet.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Tate Emerson has no desire to fly fighters—he's worked too hard to get out from under his father's thumb. But when enemy forces attack, Indi Best comes calling with a special invitation from the elder Emerson: Join the fight or get left behind. Tate hatches a plan to do his part, but not have to take orders from his father.

And a sneaky peek…

Indi stood in the control booth and let out a low whistle. "Damn." Getting Tate through the accelerated flight class and moving to simulators didn't surprise Indi. "Tate definitely has aptitude." But he'd just breezed through the preliminary sim runs. "How the hell did he manage that?"

A double knock sounded on the door and Indi pushed it open to admit Tate to the room.

He arched his brows. "What's my score?"

Indi informed him while she crossed behind the desk to note the numbers in his file. "You're a little too good." Freakishly so.

Tate rolled a shoulder. "I gotta confess I've been in simulators a lot. Like before I could even walk." His gaze drifted to the viewing screen and his lips turned upward.

Indi absorbed the information, not doubting Teague probably had Tate in a cockpit before he'd been out of diapers. "How long since the last time?" She bit back a smile at the image filling her head of baby Tate in a pilot's seat.

Tate did a mental calculation. "Hmm … right before I walked out on my dad, so a little over seven years ago." He gave a nod of confirmation.

She blinked. "The cockpit had a total redesign three years ago, but you adapted exceedingly well." Again, he'd blown her away.

Hell, it had taken her several weeks of practice runs to get the new configuration memorized. Tate did it in two test flights.

Tate narrowed his gaze. "If this is where you compare me to my brilliant pilot dad, I'd better leave. 'Cause I'm not interested." A dark look crossed his face.

A bit put off by the constant digs at her and the old man, she folded her arms over her chest. "I didn't plan to compare, but to compliment your skill." She bit the words out, trying to resist the urge to punch him.

Tate's head dropped and his shoulders slumped forward. "I'm sorry. That was a dick move and you don't deserve that. You're a terrific instructor." He propped a hip on the edge of the desk. "What's next?" A thread of excitement entered his tone.

The apology helped and Indi relaxed also. "In your case, even more of a fast track." She closed the file and tucked it under her arm. "If you're willing, I want to get you in a prowler." He'd only be wasting time with more sim runs.

A brief flash of eagerness lit his gaze, but he blinked it away. "Uh, fine. When?" He attempted some nonchalance by swiping at a nonexistent speck of lint on his uniform.

She fought a smile. "Last dog watch. Less traffic, more room to maneuver." She'd have to clear the usage with the LSO but didn't expect any pushback.

Tate's eyes widened. "As in today?" He stood. "I'll review the preflight checklist then. Can I meet you on the fight deck?"

She gave a nod and let him go.

Flipping his file open, she exhaled slowly. "Make or break time. And I have a feeling Tate isn't going to be happy when he ends up falling head over heels for the prowler." But she would be.

I'm very happy with how this story is coming together. Indi has Tate's number whether he'll admit it or not.

 

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: Come Back to Me

I had a jam-packed week of setting up a new PC and transferring files while trying to also stay on top of my work projects. In all honesty, I can't complain about the process. Of course, things went wrong because that's how it always goes. I didn't have the right cable to connect my monitor to the tower, but I found one in my stash of never-throw-away-this-type-of-thing pile of stuff I keep for that sole purpose. And once I figured out how to configure the network, transferring files has gone pretty smooth. I have a couple of final things to work out but I can take some time to do that stuff.

Didn't watch a lot of television because I needed to focus and my desk had several variations before I got the final layout figured out.

I did finish out season three of Batman: The Animated Series. I'm happy I got it done before the great wipeout from all existence. The episodes to complete the series were "Judgment Day," which I loved, "Beware the Creeper," which I also kind of enjoyed, and "Mad Love," which seems like a weird episode to end on because it's all about the Joker and Harley, but it's actually a terrific endcap for the series, because it's also about the role Batman plays in that relationship.

I also started a Battlestar Galactica rewatch with one of my best friends. We're doing weekly viewings and we've started with the miniseries. There were so many little things I'd forgotten and a lot of iconic stuff I definitely remembered. This show had such an impact on me and I'm kind of excited and terrified to travel on the journey again. LOL

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Come Back to Me, a novella that explores what happens after a couple reunites but a blast from the past returns to possibly wreak havoc.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Tania and James love each other deeply but have a complicated relationship. When Tania has a chance to right a wrong, James has to trust she'll keep her promise to come back to him.

And a sneaky peek…

James didn't want the conversation to end and Tania didn't disappoint.

Tania tucked her feet under her thighs. "Denny couldn't adjust, knowing on a deep level I would always love you." She glanced away. "And I'm ashamed to admit it, but I catted around. Mainly because I couldn't settle. I was always restless because of my feelings for you." She sighed. "Denny deserved a chance for a normal life and now he won't get it. He probably never would have either because of me."

James cocked his head. "You don't think, given enough time, you'd have found a way to make it work?" Tania has an almost pathological will to never admit defeat.

Tania shook her head. "No, but I could have set him free … would have if he'd come back from the raid … but he didn't." Her voice went still and quiet.

James gave a grim nod. "I'm truly sorry."

Tania's palm curled into her fist. "And now, when I want to fix my mistakes and be with the man I want, it feels wrong. Why can't I ever get the timing right?" She smacked her thigh.

James jumped in. "We can't get it right. There're two of us, here."

Tania snorted. "Would you wanna be that guy? The one who jumps right back in?" She tsked. "Kind of seems like winning on a technicality, right?"

James shrugged. "Maybe, but it's not a competition." He paused. "Or is it? Am I competing with Denny's memory?"

Tania frowned. "No. And it sounds stupid when you put it that way."

James shook his head. "I don't mean to make the idea or you sound dumb. I guess I want to know what you want here. From me. For us." He cupped her shoulder, giving it a squeeze.

Tania moved closer. "I want us to be together but I don't want tongues wagging because we are."

James cocked his head. "Why does it matter?" Being grist for the rumor mill usually didn't bother her.

Tania huffed out a breath. "Because, for once, I give a shit about the fallout and what that does to you."

Touched she cared, he countered. "Look, we've wasted a lot of time. If we're ready and finally on the same page, can we walk away?" He couldn't.

Tania sighed. "No."

James clasped her hand. "Then we live our lives and be together. No fanfare. No grand announcements. Just you and me."

Tania squeezed his fingers. "You can't really think it'll be that simple."

James shrugged. "I don't care. People can talk all they want, but eventually they'll find something else to discuss." Took him a long time to figure that out.

Tania's eyes widened. "And you're okay with that?"

James tugged her closer. "I let outside influence drive us apart once before. I don't plan to let it happen again."

Tania gave him a happy smile. "Then let's start living now." She straddled his lap and leaned in close.

James did the one thing he'd wanted to do since she came back aboard the ship … he caught her lips with his and melted into the embrace.

I'm so happy with how this story is unfolding. Tania has some ghosts floating in her past and that means James is also haunted by them.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Clubbing on Space Station Delta

Ugh. What a week. I ended up succumbing to the upper respiratory yuck that started with my middle kiddo. I took him to the doctor on Monday and by late that evening, I already started feeling pretty ick. Slept most of the day on Tuesday—not kidding, about fifteen hours—and still felt terrible on Wednesday, with worsening symptoms, continuous cough, inability to breathe regularly, and basically everything hurt, up to and including my hair. Got in to see the doctor on Thursday afternoon, got tested for the flu, which came back negative, got something for the cough and came home. Finally got some additional sleep and started feeling slightly better by Friday evening. Continued to improve Saturday and finally think I've turned the corner. Going to take everything nice and slow through Tuesday and follow up with the doctor, but at least I can think clearly again. Definitely a wild ride for a few days.

Did not get a lot of television watched. Well, I did. But I don't remember a huge chunk of it. I did get some additional episodes of Batman: The Animated Series in before falling off the cliff of craziness.

Finished up "Joker's Millions," which I remember but forgot how much I actually enjoyed. Also caught "Growing Pains," "Mean Seasons," a truly excellent episode, "The Demon Within," "Over the Edge," and "Torch Song."

I hope I can still finish up the final season before HBOMax sucks the joy out of life by removing it from their service. Fingers crossed I don't end up with a new yuck thing to deal with.

That's more than anyone wanted to know about my life this week! Tonight's post is from Clubbing on Space Station Delta, a fun little space romp where perceptions are turned on their head and fun ensues.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Macie Gunn discovers a very different side to Nix Handleman, her commanding officer, when they get some downtime on Space Station Delta. Macie likes what she sees, but wonders if Nix will keep the stick out of his ass once they return back to duty. Nix loves taking Macie by surprise but doesn't quite trust her enough to take things further … after all, Macie never met a secret she didn't want to spill. Each has to show some trust in the other's ability to change and they only have a weekend to do it.

And a sneaky peek…

By the fifth song, Macie needed to quench her thirst, and maybe something else ... if she read Nix's body language correctly. And she rarely missed when it came to mutual attraction. She simulated downing a drink and sashayed to the bar.

Nix followed and dropped down on a stool beside her. "You've got some moves, Macie." He ordered a tonic water and juice.

She cracked a smile. "High praise coming from you. I'll take it." She downed the shot and ordered a glass of juice.

Nix's lips quirked. "Gotta replenish the system after all that gyrating."

She laughed a little. "That and I have the early shift on watch." She yawned. I gotta call it a night. I didn't have time catch any sleep before heading out." She slid off the barstool.

Nix got up also. "How about I walk with you to your quarters. The first night of leave usually brings out all the bad ideas." He fell into step beside her.

Macie squashed a thrill and couldn't resist a comeback. "One person's bad idea is another person's idea of fun." They crossed the entertainment hub lobby and headed for the turbolift.

She spoke too soon, because when they exited the lift, a group of crewmen were weaving and swaying and jostling each other. Nix grasped her arm and edged her close to the wall. The rowdy bunch took up most of the corridor and Nix draped an arm over her shoulder to shied her from the horseplay.

Macie welcomed his arm around her. "Thanks. Guess I didn't realize I landed on the party floor." She gave Nix the room number of her quarters.

He got them to the door and she pressed her keycard to the monitor. The door lock snicked and Macie turned, hoping to extend her time with Nix.

Leaning in, she lifted her chin. "Thanks for the escort." Her lips covered his.

Nix responded, deepening the kiss and slipping his tongue past her teeth. The embrace nearly melted her brain. Not only could the man dance, he had lip-locks down to an art form also.

Easing away, she invited him in, thinking the night would have a very satisfactory conclusion.

But he shook his head. "I gotta decline."

Stymied and frustrated, she blinked. "I thought you wanted me."

Nix put a hand on the wall beside her. "It's not about want, Mace…" He pressed the hard ridge of his cock against her. "The want isn't lacking. It's about trust. And we're not there yet."

She moaned, her eyes sliding shut. "I thought maybe the whole what happens in Loco stays in Loco…" She glanced down, eyeing the hard bulge. "Could apply to Delta, too."

Nix flashed a smile. "I'm not saying it can't. But your track record with discretion is pretty much nonexistent." An arched eyebrow dared her to deny his statement.

Macie groaned. Hoisted by my big, damn mouth.

She met his gaze. "So … you don't trust me?" She honestly couldn't blame him.

He leaned in and his mouth nuzzled her throat. "Mace, I want and need you." His lips brushed over hers. "But, no, the trust isn't there yet." He eased away from her.

Macie sighed. "What can I do to convince you?" Short of committing murder, she'd do just about anything.

Nix lifted his chin. "Meet me at Loco tomorrow night. We'll talk more."

Macie weighed trying to cajole him to come into her quarters against letting the tension build a little.

Nix decided for her.

He caught her lips in a kiss. "Good things come to those who wait, Mace." Backing away, he headed down the corridor.

She opened her door and shuffled inside, stripping off her skirt and shirt and falling into bed. Dejected and disappointed, she drifted off to sleep with plans to prove he could count on her to keep her mouth shut.

This story went in a direction I didn't think it would. Nix had a definitive idea of what he wanted and wouldn't let me deviate from his chosen route. I love it when that happens.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Breaking Point (Scorched Galaxy)

Think I'm finally over the hump with the ear infection and tooth issues. Feeling much more clear-headed and able to function. Low-grade discomfort is such a distraction.

Had an okay week watching more Batman: The Animated Series. I finished up season one and got started on season two, which is much, much shorter than the first one.

Enjoyed the opening of season two with "House and Garden." Ivy can be very intriguing and watching her playing normal family ended up being fun.

Also enjoyed Ra's Agul's return. I like the fact he isn't part of the usual rogue's gallery and doesn't haunt Gotham like the rest of the villains do.

I'm hoping to finish out the year with the rest of season two and three, then maybe dive into some of my favorite Justice League episodes with Batman.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Breaking Point, book three of the Scorched Galaxy series.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Molly and Sloan are rock solid until the fleet reaches its breaking point and their relationship is one of the casualties … or so they want everyone to think.

And a sneaky peek…

"The explosion is just the beginning. The initiative is everywhere … and nowhere…

And we have nothing to lose."

Sloan sat going over the tape again. He'd made a full pot of strong coffee—not because he needed it to wake up—hell, he'd slept a solid six hours. A deep, dreamless, dead to the world, much needed rest.

His body ached in the best way. Molly had wanted more than a repeat performance. She demanded several encores, not that he'd complain. Something about physically exhausting himself with sex made his head very clear.

His lips quirked. "Leave it to Molly to know exactly what I needed." Somehow being replete, spent, and sated made his energy level even out and knocked the cobwebs loose in his overtaxed mind.

He heard the words on the tape with different ears, picking up on nuances he'd missed before. The speech had been practiced and designed to carry weight and have impact on a group of weary travelers. The initiative would gain momentum and, if Sloan didn't miss his guess, make a move to gain power and take over the fleet.

Molly staggered out of the bedroom and made her way to the coffee, pouring a mug then blowing across the top. Sloan sat back, watching her take a tentative sip, her slow, blissful grin drawing a quick one from him.

She turned and made her way to the desk, leaning down to catch his lips in a toe-curling kiss. "I love you." Planting a hip on the edge, she brought the cup to her mouth again.

Sloan chuckled. "You love the coffee." His fingers trailed playfully down her thigh.

Molly laughed. "Well, there is that. But I love you more." She settled more comfortably on the desk. "Now play the tape and let me listen to it."

I love writing this couple. At some point, I really do hope to get this saga out into the universe because Molly and Sloan are so much fun.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Baracas File

Had a rough week with an ear infection and a cracked tooth. The antibiotic is definitely helping but functioning with a fuzzy brain from discomfort is not fun.

I did get a lot of Batman: The Animated Series episodes in. I started with season one number forty-eight and ended with sixty-four. I'm not all the way through "Paging the Crime Doctor" yet but should finish it up today.

Again, there were a few forgotten but so good episodes. "The Mechanic" and "The Man Who Killed Batman" are two that were excellent. Interestingly, Sid the Squid is mentioned later but it's not the same character from "The Man Who Killed Batman."

Two of my favorite two-parters were in this bunch, "Robin's Reckoning" and "Shadow of the Bat." I loved both. The first because it dives into Dick's backstory and shows how much Bruce and Batman care for Dick / Robin. The second because it introduces Batgirl. Another two-part arc with Ra's and Talia, "The Demon's Quest," is also pretty solid.

I also forgot about the second concluding (I think) episode "Day of the Samurai" that wrapped up Bruce's history with his instructor and rival.

"Zatanna" is another one I always enjoy. I love seeing the journey Bruce took to become Batman. I also enjoyed "Read My Lips" that introduced the ventriloquist. One I forgot about is "Fire From Olympus," which feels a little out of place in the Batman realm but I kind of like it because of that.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Baracas File, a novella that puts the characters in a precarious position when they go after corruption.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Briggs Felderzon, an investigative reporter, will stop at nothing to discover what's in the Baracas File, the contents of which results in his brother's death. Myrrh Gold, his brother's partner in the Inter-Stellar Police, decides to help him … but Briggs isn't sure he trusts her.

And a sneaky peek…

Myrrh spent the two days following a departmental debriefing about Zell's death reading the entire contents of the Baracas file.

Two things became very clear. "He died because of me." Inadvertently, but the burden didn't lessen because she'd walked away from her not so straight and narrow family business.

He'd been right about being targets. Obviously. But she'd been so certain no one could possibly know they had the file.

Her fingers practically burned holding the assortment of reports, court documents, and communiqués. "Yet less than five hours after I liberated it, Zell is targeted and eliminated." Only someone in the department would miss it.

The big question? Who? Unless someone did a daily check—and that had to be the case—the file shouldn't have been missed. The plan had been she and Zell would scan the contents and return the bulky package to the evidence room.

Rising from her couch, she paced back and forth. "I got away clean. I know I did." She'd learned from the best and put her skill to use from the age of eight to seventeen.

She kept up with the latest safeguards and equipment, too. As an inter-stellar police officer, she had access to the newest technology. Zell used to challenge her to test her knowledge.

She paused. "Testing my knowledge got him killed." And put her in the line of fire … unless her family connections gave her cover.

Several distant relatives were listed in the file. The ones with ties to organized crime. And one or two appeared to have connections to bigwigs in the police department hierarchy.

She huffed out a breath. "That's new info." And the one person she'd normally share the intelligence with, the only one she trusted, no longer existed.

Sinking back down onto her sofa, she fought a wave of grief. I'll bring down the person who murdered you, Zell. Justice will be served.

If she lived long enough to mete it out…

I like how this story is coming together even if it's a little slow going. We might also see a character or two pop up from other books set in the Queen City universe.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Automatic Failure

Whew. November is almost over and I'm not sure where the month went. Crazy weather continues. It warms up then plunges into the cold depths. We've had a dusting of snow twice. I don't mind the cold, but I like it better when it gets chilly and stays that way. The back and forth makes me cranky.

I did finish up one of my work projects and have a brief break on the second one. I thought I'd get some things accomplished around the house but I ended up having two new works projects land in my inbox. Definitely not complaining but I think one of my new goals will be trying to create better balance.

I, again, didn't get a lot of anything watched this week. I started an episode of Ted Lasso but put it on hold when I got the new projects.

I plan to view as many episodes of Batman: The Animated Series as a memorial to Kevin Conroy, as I can. I can honestly say, Kevin is my Batman. He's he first voice actor I ever looked up online because I loved his work in the animated series so much.

One bit of great news is I'm three-quarters of the way done with my holiday shopping. I might even start getting the gifts wrapped and bagged. Then it's off to gather stocking-stuffers.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Automatic Failure, a novella that mixes a sibling rivalry, family drama, and a couple doing what's best for everyone.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Piper Kemp, a flight instructor, moves aside to avoid letting her personal feelings influence a decision about whether to pass one of her students. But when he crashes and almost loses his life, Knox Petruci steps up to defend Piper and opens a can of worms because her student happens to be his brother.

And a sneaky peek…

When Piper passed the med tech station, Ana snagged Piper's arm. "Oh, no, Lieutenant. Let's get you some coffee and a few moments alone. You don't look like you need to be riding on elevators or behind the wheel of a car right now." Ana directed Piper to a small waiting area, pushed her into a chair, and poured a cup of the fragrant brew. "Now you just drink this and take five to compose yourself, then you can head on out."

Piper blinked the tears from her eyes and took the mug. "Thanks. And sorry for pulling you away from your job." She needed to get a grip and get on her way.

Ana dropped down into the chair beside her. "Honey, you don't have to apologize. That one"—meaning Abel—"is a piece of work. And if what I think happened, happened. You just saved yourself from needing a pain-in-the-ass extraction."

Taking a sip of the coffee, Piper choked on it. Ana's words conjured a hilarious image of medical equipment raising Abel, kicking and flailing, up into the air. After the nasty scene, she'd needed the humor.

Ana patted her hand. "There you go. You're all set now." She got up and headed for the door. "Want my unsolicited advice? Check out the older one. He's a looker and I think he got all the good genes." She waved and went outside.

Piper cocked her head to one side. "Wouldn't that be a wild twist?" She downed the rest of the coffee and placed the mug on the counter.

Heading toward the elevator, she didn't know what to think when she pressed the button to head down to the main level. Entering the enclosed space, she absently selected the ground floor indicator and waited for the brief ride down. Getting dumped—could it even be called that when Abel had ulterior motives for dating her in the first place—stung, but oddly didn't hurt as much as she would have expected. Especially considering she'd stepped aside because her personal feelings were involved.

"Hold the door, please!"

Piper flung her hand against the sliding panel and almost laughed when Knox stepped onto the car.

His eyes went wide but he recovered quickly. "Thanks. I appreciate it." He glanced at the selection and nodded when he noticed the main lobby selected.

The doors slid shut and the elevator started its descent.

Knox kept his gaze forward. "As you've obviously discovered, my brother can be an idiot." He shot her a sideways glance. "I swear no one dropped him on his head, but he gets it honest."

Piper's lips curved. "Do I want to know which family member he takes after?" She bit her tongue for being snarky, but Knox barked out a laugh.

And Piper flashed back to Ana's advice…

This story is shaping up and is so much fun to write. We've got the sibling rivalry in the books and the family drama follows soon after.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Zulu Delta Niner

Had a bit of a rough week and felt under the weather for most of it. I did make progress on two of my work projects so not a total loss.

I didn't quite get all the way through my full streaming schedule, but I got a decent amount of viewing completed.

I started the second season of Ted Lasso and quite enjoyed the first episode. I'm interested to see where things go with the psychologist.

Caught another Agatha Christie Hour and loved the cloak and dagger aspect of the episode. Very twisty and turny and an excellent resolution.

Started season six of Endeavor and enjoyed the first episode. Not sure I like the new DCI but I'll see where things go. I don't like not having all the guys together but a shake up now and then is probably good for the show.

Watched another episode of Silent Witness and had no idea Clarissa had a husband. Good to see how they interacted. Interesting premise and I can't wait to see how it plays out.

Started a new arc of Classic Who. It's a bit spooky and I liked the first episode. Looking forward to seeing where this one goes.

Sci Fi Science had a fun topic of traveling to a parallel universe. I like to see how a theoretical physicist puts ideas together that could one day possibly happen.

Enjoyed another episode of Ms. Marvel. This group of characters is a joy to watch. I love the way Kamala interacts with everyone and the show nails the entire awkwardness of being a teenager pretty well.

The finale of Only Murders in the Building did not disappoint! I'm so excited to start season two because I have to know what happens next for our trio of characters.

Started season four of Blue Heelers. Nice to see Roz again even if the circumstances were sad. I'm a little disappointed I won't have new episodes to watch after this season unless I want to jump to eleven.

I'm in the middle of an Umbrella Academy episode and should have it finished up later today. Things are really spiraling and that's not a bad thing.

That's pretty much it for this week's life update. Tonight's post is from Zulu Delta Niner, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

In a war-torn galaxy, Nell Watkinson works to save lives on the front lines in the battle arena. When she returns home, she meets Jerrick Haight, a man who's not afraid to fight if his number is called, but he vehemently opposes waging war when it spreads resources so thin their own people suffer. On opposite sides of a moral dilemma, Jerrick's actions put him in danger and Nell uses everything at her disposal to save his life.

And a sneaky peek…

"Take care, Rod. I'll stop in if I can before I ship back out." She squeezed his hand before leaving the transfer unit.

Making her way through the emergency department, she shook her head. On the ride from the airport to the base hospital, shock filled her at the desolation and horrible conditions people were living with. The ED looked like the warzone she'd left behind out in the black.

"What the hell? I've been gone three years, not a dozen." How can things be this bad?

She exited the hospital and found an escort waiting to take her to the ministry of war.

Rolling her eyes, she addressed the ranked officer. "My old men set the goon squad to provide shuttle service? Am I supposed to be impressed?" The two-man team had her dad's name written all over it.

The lieutenant gave her a grim smile. "There have been a lot of protests lately. He wanted to make sure you made it to your meeting safely." He opened the back door of the SUV. "And he wants you there right away." He swept an arm forward, trying to usher her inside.

Nell frowned. Not even time to get cleaned up and refreshed with a shower from the flight in? Too bad, Dad. She'd get one before she met with the old man.

She didn't make a move to enter the vehicle. "Look, you're following orders, I get that. But I'm not dancing to my father's tune here. I'm going to demand we stop by my apartment." When it looked like he'd argue, she played on his sympathy. "Please. I haven't been home in three years and I want a hot shower and a fresh uniform before I meet with the colonel." She stopped short of batting her lashes at the officer.

He exchanged a glance with his counterpart, a junior lieutenant. The other guy shrugged. Nell checked their name badges. Hoyt and Montell, Hoyt being the higher ranked.

Hoyt sighed. "We really shouldn't…"

Nell squarely met his gaze. "It'll take me no more than ten minutes to freshen up and we can be on our way. I live less than five blocks from here." She leaned in a little. "I'll take the heat for this. My plan is to inform the colonel that we got stuck in protest traffic. You can back me up or not, but there's your out." She had no qualms about lying to her dad.

He'd lied to her more than once.

Montell broke his silence. "It'll be easier to let her do what she wants. We're already losing time standing here arguing." He popped the front passenger door open and slid inside the SUV.

Hoyt jerked his head toward the back. "Let's go. I hope you're accurate on the time. If we're more than thirty minutes late, he'll send an entire team out looking for us."

Nell scrambled into the back. "You're welcome to time me." She pulled the door shut and pondered his warning.

Is he serious about my dad sending a team out for us? Why the hell would he do that?

Traveling the short distance to her apartment, she paid careful attention to the empty storefronts and operating businesses that had bars on the windows. The park a block away from her building had tents pitched in semi-neat rows with burn barrels and cooking fires strewn throughout. The SUV pulled up to her apartment complex, a huge brick dwelling with eight floors.

Nell had the door open before the SUV rolled to a complete stop. Montell got out and tried to follow her, but she waved him off.

Angling her head around, she called out. "There's a clear line of sight to the door. I'll be quicker if you just let me go alone. I'm on the fourth floor and the windows face the street. You'll know if anything happens." Not waiting for a response, she ducked inside and hit the steps at a run.

True to her word, it took less than ten minutes to freshen up with a quick, hot shower and a clean uniform. On her way back down to her waiting escort, her heart dropped at the disrepair her complex had fallen into. While not as bad as some of the buildings along the route, the walls needed new paint and the steps had tracked mud and dirt all the way down.

Heading outside, she quickly got back inside the SUV. "All set. Let's go see the colonel." She definitely wanted a conversation with her dad.

This one is going down some paths I didn't expect and I like the detours. Nell and her dad are not going to see eye to eye on much of anything.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Zipper Incident

Had a truly fall-weather week … to the point we had to turn the heat on. We'll probably get another brief spell of warmer temperatures before things settle down into actual fall. Or, we could have snow before Halloween. It's Ohio.

Busy work week with several projects going at the same time. I did get through a round of my usual viewing schedule.

Ted Lasso didn't disappoint with Rebecca's reveal and the catalyst for her finally making it happen ended up being so good. I rather hope Rupert dies in a fire or maybe gets hit by a double-decker bus in the near future. What a twat. Keeley continues to make me laugh out loud and I have so much love for her.

Caught another episode of The Agatha Christie Hour, which ended up being quite a fun episode even if the whole point was to gaslight one poor guy into handing over something that didn't even belong to him.

I picked up where I left of with Endeavor in season five and caught back up with the characters. I'm looking forward to more and seeing where things go.

Started a new two-part Silent Witness and thoroughly enjoyed the twists in the episode. I'm not quite sure who the culprit is and that's always fun for me.

Enjoyed another episode of Classic Who. Loved seeing Three's car pulled out of mothballs and the interactions between the brigadier and the Doctor. So much fun.

Finished up the first season of Strangest Things and I'm looking forward to the second. I love seeing how they try to figure out what the relics are and how they were used.

Started Ms. Marvel and loved the first episode. I'm very excited to dive into this series. Kamala and Bruno are awesome!

Only Murders in the Building had an awesome episode with the Superfans. Seriously, I loved so much about how everything played out. Okay, except at the end. Now I can't wait to find out what happened to the bassoonist. I have so many theories, but two stand out and I'll share if either one of those is correct.

Finished up season three of Blue Heelers and said good-bye to Wayne. I'm actually kind of glad it was indeed a random act as the episode title suggested. I'm kind of bummed out that I'll only be able to watch one more season in order then I'll have to skip to the later seasons. Streaming sucks sometimes.

Watched another MasterClass lesson with Roxane Gay. She discussed being a good literary citizen in this one and I enjoyed what she had to say. Kindness doesn't cost a red cent and being considerate of others is sometimes a lost gesture that should be the norm instead of the exception.

The Umbrella Academy had another terrific episode. I love how much chaos there is and also how the characters end up being there for each other even when they'd rather be anywhere else.

Caught an episode of Classic Rugrats and laughed out loud more than once and remembered doing the same when watching with the kiddos.

Finished off the week with Batman: The Animated Series and the introduction of the Clock King. I loved this episode when it originally aired and enjoyed it again this time around.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from The Zipper Incident, a sexy short that takes a practical joke to a steamy conclusion.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Layne Donaker makes a grave error when she mistakenly uses a super adhesive on Hyde Scarlotti's zippers—all of them, including his flight suit. Hyde is beyond done with her stupid pranks and calls her out in front of the entire crew, which Layne doesn't take kindly.

And a sneaky peek…

Hyde loved laughing with Layne and they hadn't done any since his promotion.

He sobered. "What are you really afraid of, Layne?" He needed to have her back to her brand of normal.

She hesitated but finally answered. "That you'll move on and we'll never get a chance to well…" She motioned between them. "See if there's more here." Her cheeks flushed pink.

Finally! Progress. He'd been stupid not to see it.

He cupped her face. "Oh, Layne. There's more. There always has been."

Her eyes went wide. "Why didn't you say anything?"

He huffed out a breath. "Because you weren't ready." And pushing the idea would've blown any chance they had.

She glanced away, acknowledging the truth of that statement. Sometimes he knew her better than she knew herself.

She met his gaze again, bold and certain. "I'm ready now." Her voice held steady conviction.

He believed her. She finally figured out what she wanted. Them. Together.

His head tilted and his mouth caught hers in a steamy kiss. She moaned and slipped her tongue past his teeth. Steamy turned into something seriously hot. He could get used to this.

Keys jangled and they broke apart, each breathing a little heavier than normal. Layne's tongue flicked over her lower lip and her mouth twisted in a quirky smile. The lance corporal unlocked the cell. He only arched his eyebrow at finding them so close together.

Swinging the door open, he swept his arm out. "CO said you two can leave now … as long as you're done throwing punches."

Layne sidled past him. "Oh, we're done. We kinda worked everything out." She sent a Hyde a sideways glance.

The lance corporal smirked. "Yeah, I kinda figured." He pinned Hyde with a look. "Hang on to that one."

Hyde flashed a grin. "I intend to." He exited behind Layne and fell into step beside her.

He'd keep her as long as she wanted.

Layne and Hyde are fun characters to write. I love tipping a friendship into the something more zone.

 

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

ML Skye