Sunday Snippet: Submit

It's been a wild week. Between work and other commitments, I've been frazzled. My sleep schedule is all over the map and I'm not enjoying the fits and starts of trying to get rest. But … I'll adjust. Hopefully soon.

Our weather has been all over the place. We had a sixty-degree day followed by snow and thirty-four degrees. The day after Thanksgiving is supposed to be in the upper teens for the high. I'm side-eyeing Mother Nature right now.

Work projects are coming in and I think I'm booked through the end of the year. I'm pleased because December can be a sketchy month sometimes. I don't mind downtime, but I'm definitely not prepared to have limited income this year.

Had a terrible week of viewing. Too many distractions and said lack of sleep kept me from getting much watched.

I did catch an episode of Mr. and Mrs. Murder and kind of enjoyed it. Some familiar faces as guest stars this week. The mystery was a little lackluster but a good episode nonetheless.

I also caught some marathons of Midsomer Murders. I kind of love the streaming twenty-four hours of one show channels. It's fun to set a favorite and have a go-to comfort watch whenever I want.

I'm also looking at a few new shows but haven't decided which ones I want to pick up. I'm also hoping to get back to my rewatch of Battlestar Galactica. My viewing partner will help determine if that's going to happen. So much more fun to watch with someone else who loves the show as much as I do.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Submit, a novella set on Furlough 99.

Here's the miniblurb:

Lena Stoll and Welles Abernate work security on a large space station. While the job pays well, the stress level can quickly skyrocket, but Lena comes up with a great solution—she acts as a dominatrix in her downtime—much to Welles's surprise.

And a sneaky peek…

Welles sat behind the desk after patrolling the sectors Balik assigned to him. "Figures Lena would pick tonight to flake off." Not that he blamed her after pulling the double shifts last week.

He'd been lucky enough to be exempt from pulling overtime because he'd just returned from an undercover stint in the mining colony. He had his mandatory debrief and Balik gave Welles three days to rest and recover from the hard labor he'd endured on the asteroid. He could've come back after two but took the extra time because their CO didn't do anything without a reason.

Welles snorted. "Sucks that Lena had to pick up the slack." Even if she proved more than capable of going full tilt with metaphoric balls to the wall.

He enjoyed working with her because she kept a straight head on when shit went sideways … and it often did on Furlough 99. Ex-enforcers liked to tempt fate by showing up and wreaking havoc. Especially when they could stick Balik with the tab of removing them from the station.

A blip pinged on the holomonitor and Welles swiped the screen. A brief report from an anonymous sender opened. His gut said the guild probably passed the no-name report along. The bounty hunters served a purpose, and Balik gave them free rein as long as they kept their size seventeen boots away from official security issues.

He briefly scanned the limited details and leaned closer to make sure he read the information correctly. "Shit. Definitely didn't see this coming." He slumped back in the chair.

According to the file, an agent happened to be moonlighting in the luxe sector at the Marionette—a very exclusive members-only establishment. Welles would have to investigate to make sure no underhanded dealing took place. The security agents weren't allowed to work other jobs because they could play favorites. If they got caught … they'd be subject to harsh repercussions, namely losing their position in the security force.

He heaved a sigh and got to his feet. "I'll have to check this out." He hoped whoever sent the report had things wrong.

Exiting the sector station, he took the upglide to the main hub of Furlough then grabbed a lift up to the luxe quad. He got off and went up three more levels. The first had shopping, shows, gambling slots and various food stations. The second level had casino gambling, bars like the Den of Iniquity, and dance clubs. The third had a mix of walk-in and by appointment establishments catering to the lovelorn or those looking for a bit of recreational pursuits, including sex. The fourth level had a more discerning clientele. Less crowded, the people frequenting this section got appointments with a higher price tag and could apply for membership-only clubs.

The fifth level and his destination had exclusive membership with a staggering price tag. "And apparently, one of my coworkers engaging in a side gig."

He moved past dark, heavy doors with attendants monitoring access. Anyone trying to get through would be required to scan their member pass card or not gain entry. The attendants were trained to remove interlopers with minimal disruption, which kept Balik happy.

Welles made his way to the Marionette and flashed his creds. The attendant narrowed his gaze, buzzed the matron, and let Welles inside. The matron guided him to a plush office and reviewed the information he presented.

She then directed him through the richly designed halls and stopped before a set of doors. "This is Domina's suite." With a lift of her chin, she backed away and glided back toward her office.

Welles huffed out a breath, wondering who he'd find on the other side.

Having fun with this one. It's a little different from the other two Furlough books and I'm happy to explore this unique dynamic of the station with Lena and Welles.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Submit

Not a bad week overall. The weather has been a little crazypants, but given the state of the world, not exactly surprising.

Had a new work project and set up several more for the near future. Happy about getting some new ink on my calendar. Also started a new goal of reading a bit from my new books. If I make it an almost daily habit, I'll get a lot accomplished.

Decent viewing week for television. I caught a couple of Peanuts specials. Happy New Year, Charlie Brown and It's Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown. I don't think I've ever seen either.

Watched the penultimate episode of The Madame Blanc Mysteries. So far, I'm really enjoying this new show. Here's hoping there will be more.

Caught two episodes of Classic Who and I'm stuck between thinking it's kind of cool that the Doctor struggles with maintaining the TARDIS and being annoyed by the idea. Did kind of enjoy the various incarnations the ship took when they moved from place to place.

Enjoyed two episodes of The Alaska Triangle. I'm constantly fascinated by how vast the state is and how beautiful the scenery is. Even with weird stuff going on.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers. Not quite sure what this one will be about but I have a feeling Wayne's not going to fare well.

Watched four episodes of The Muppet Show. Gladys Knight, Hal Linden, Marty Feldman, and Wally Boag were the guest stars. Almost finished with season five and then it'll be the new-to-me series and movies up next.

Got two more episodes of Peak Practice watched. The icky doctor finally got his comeuppance and Claire's manic depression might have calmed down a little. Still enjoying this one.

Finished up the holiday special of Fantasy Island. I ended up a blubbery mess by the end of it. Kudos to the writing staff for that. Really like where this show is headed. Fingers crossed they don't eff it up like so many other shows.

Enjoyed two more lessons of MasterClass with Bill Nye. I love his mix of humor and excitement. I wish school districts would let teachers instruct the way he does.

Got two episodes of The Witcher watched and I'm so in love with this show. I love everything about the plotlines this season. I'm very excited about the main trio meeting up … if it happens. If it doesn't, I'll deal but I want Geralt, Yennifer, and Ciri in one room at the same time—even if it's the final cut scene of the season. Just saying.

Watched two more episodes of Classic Rugrats. Both were remembered favorites. Someday, I'd love to watch some of these with my oldest kidlet again.

Caught two episodes of Chicago Med and enjoyed both. There's something about a medical drama that makes me very happy. This one walks a nice line of drama and humor.

Finished up season six of The Brokenwood Mysteries. I've got one season left and I'm actually hoping there will be another one in the wings. Haven't really looked to see if that's going to happen but here's hoping.

Started a new season and a new two-parter of Silent Witness. Harry is still around, which is terrific. I love his character. I also don't remember watching this run so I might finally be in new episodes for me.

Caught another episode of Fosse Verdon. This one made me grin because my daughter did the "Who's Got the Pain" number for her senior year pops concert. I'm hoping I can get her to watch at least that scene.

Last but not least, I watched another episode of Star Trek: Discovery. A lot going on in this one. Ash is back with star fleet. Tilly is going through it. Phillipa made an appearance, which I'm totally down with. And Michael is caught up in major family drama. Looking forward to seeing where everything ends up.

Whew! That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Submit, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Lena Stoll and Welles Abernate work security on a large space station. While the job pays well, the stress level can quickly skyrocket, but Lena comes up with a great solution—she acts as a dominatrix in her downtime—much to Welles's surprise.

And a sneaky peek…

Something in her voice reached out and grabbed him and he couldn't disobey.

He disrobed slowly, not quite sure what to expect. His brain spun with possibilities and his dick grew hard under his fatigues, surprisingly. A quick flick from a crop above his cock jerked his gaze up to meet Lena's.

She gave him a pointed look. "Eyes on me." Her fingers toyed with the whip. "Continue undressing while I go over the ground rules."

He held her gaze and dropped his shirt to the floor. "Yes, Le—" He broke off. "Sorry, Domina." He could be a fast learner.

Lena lifted her chin, the only indication she noticed his slip-up.

He worked the buttons of his pants loose and waited for what came next.

Lena ticked off a list. "I'll refer to you as minion and you will do my bidding." She turned away and paced slowly back and forth.

He took the time to drop his fatigues. Excitement warred with an odd bashfulness. And maybe a small measure of trepidation.

Lena softened her tone. "We're not getting into anything heavy, this isn't that type of establishment, but if you want to stop at any time, simply say shield and the role play ends." She angled back, a smile on her face when she caught sight of his nude status.

He basked under her pleased expression—a puzzle piece falling into place. The desire to have one goal—to make her happy—took off any kind of pressure he might have otherwise felt.

Domina stopped in front of him. "What would you like as a reward?"

Several ideas flashed in his brain but he concentrated on his current role, hoping it would be correct. "I'm not sure what would be appropriate, Domina." What he really wanted—a night with her outside of this little side hustle—he'd keep under wraps for now.

I'm having a lot of fun writing this one. I don't want to do a deep dive into a full BDSM scenario but I do enjoy a lighter touch with elements of the control scenario.

 

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Submit

October 7, 2018

Well, hello, October! This is one of my favorite months. The weather usually gets cooler.

The leaves start changing. And Halloween is just around the corner! It also means the holiday season is looming fast and furiously. Ugh. I'm not ready this year. LOL

Rough week with work and unexpected scheduling conflicts. I did get to watch some good television though. Caught the third episode of Strike Back's fifth season and had a surprise visit in the form of pictures from Stonebridge and Scott. I'm definitely intrigued! I also think I finally made the connection I needed to make. I'm slow sometimes.

The Last Ship seriously keeps me on the edge of my seat. I'm so sad and angry over a certain loss, but I totally called plot point even if it's a little disappointing. Caught the finale of Chicago Fire just in time for the new season to begin. I'll be behind per usual, but I'm glad I got to watch it.

Luke Cage is pulling some interesting things out of the woodwork. I'll admit I'm a little confused with where they're planning to take this season. That said, I love this show. And there's no Trish to really muck things up. Just saying.

Passionflix's Driven is so good. I watched the fourth episode and thoroughly enjoyed it. Can't wait for the new holiday movie they have planned.

Murdoch Mysteries started their twelfth season with a fun episode. I always look forward to this series and the new twists and turns Murdoch and Julia and the rest of the cast face.

Caught a few more episodes of Peter Gunn's first season. The noir feel of this show never fails to make me happy. Penny Dreadful is seriously creepy sometimes and I'm kind of on the fence about whether I like it or not. LOL

Caught another episode of The Dresden Files and it was one I remembered liking a lot when it originally aired.

Rounding things out for the week, I caught an episode of Killjoys and love where things are going. I'll be so sad to see this show end next season.

I started the final episode of Canal Road and didn't have the chance to finish it yet. It's on the agenda for tomorrow.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Submit, a novella with a tie-in to Furlough 99.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Lena Stoll and Welles Abernate work security on a large space station. While the job pays well, the stress level can quickly skyrocket, but Lena comes up with a great solution—she acts as a dominatrix in her downtime—much to Welles's surprise.

And a sneaky peek…

"Uh-uh, no way. I'm not working a double shift."

Lena Stoll shook her head and turned to leave the communications center of Furlough 99.

Her boss cleared his throat. "Care to tell me why?" He moved to block her path to the door.

Lena blew out a long breath. "Because I pulled two doubles last week and I'm not doing it again this week." She'd reached the end of her patience.

Her coworker, Welles Abernale picked that moment to walk in, stopping behind their CO.

Lena grabbed her opportunity. "Make Welles work the extra time." She walked around both men. "I'm taking a mental health break as of right now." Breezing out of the comm center, she waited until she hit the end of the corridor before making a run for the closest elevator.

Pushing the button, her foot tapped an impatient cadence. She wanted to get to quarters as soon as possible.

Her lips twitched. "I've got someplace to be, dammit." And a month's work of stress to relieve.

Her home away from home and work never failed to rejuvenate her mind and soul. Boarding the lift, she punched the number for the staff residences. The short ride ended and she exited the enclosure. She only lived three doors down and didn't waste time getting into her quarters and grabbing a shower.

Putting the finishing touches on her wardrobe, she added a long black duster and made sure it covered her outfit. She never left anything to chance. Leaving her quarters, she made her way up to the fifth level of the luxe quadrant. Already, the tension from the past month started to drain away.

She made her way to the private chambers of the Marionette and signed in under her pseudonym.

The matron gave Lena a wide smile. "Ramos is ready and waiting for you."

Lena flashed a grin. "And no doubt followed my instructions to the letter." She loosened the buttons of her duster, letting the cover fall off her shoulders. "Time to get to work." On her side gig.

One that could get her fired from her actual job… if she let the matron pay her.

Good thing she didn't.

Honestly, this one is pretty fun to dive into. I'm excited to see where it goes.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Submit

Greetings!

Ugh. I'm fighting a nasty summer cold / allergy / yuck something, which I'm hoping runs its course before next week. School starts on August 25, but my kidlets already have golf and football stuff going on. We've already had a football scrimmage and our first golf match is Monday. Sadly, I won't be going because I can't breathe when I go outside. LOL Ugh. Seriously, my nasal passages can clear up any time now.

Let's see. Teen Wolf? Yeah. A shit ton of stuff happened in the last episode. Glad to see things moving forward. I'm now excited to see Monday's episode. If I'm not in a cold / allergy medication induced coma.

Friday night on Syfy is still kicking major ass. Defiance turned in a pretty awesome episode. But… I was sad to see one of the characters go. I'm also dying to see where this whole thing ends and there better be another season to wrap stuff up. I'm going to be very angry if there isn't. LOL

Killjoys seriously keeps me glued to the screen. This is another one where a new season is a must. The pacing and everything else related to backstory and world building is just about perfect. The only thing I'd like to see a little more of is John's history. I'd even throw Pawter in there, too, but I'm actually okay with what's been revealed of her history so far. Here's hoping next week's episode is mind-blowing.

Dark Matter… cliffhanger ahoy! I'll be riveted to see how Two gets out of the predicament she landed in. I'm also interested in seeing where they end this season. While this show spends a little more time on backstory / exposition, I'm definitely excited by the possibilities of more.

The Last Ship. What can I say? I've praised everything from the pacing, characters, actors, and writing. I'll add all the twists and turns to the mix. I totally didn't see Rachel's ballsy action last week and I can't wait to see if shit flies or not. I'm kind of hoping for the latter because seriously? Her move needed to happen. Just saying.

And enough about TV. Tonight's post is from Submit, a novella where my heroine shows my hero an awesome way to bust stress.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Lena Stoll and Welles Abernate work security on a large space station. While the job pays well, the stress level can quickly skyrocket, but Lena comes up with a great solution—she acts as a dominatrix in her downtime—much to Welles's surprise.

And a sneaky peek…

Welles blinked, his shock evident. "What the hell Lena?" His gaze scanned her from head to toe.

No doubt the leather bustier, latex hot pants, black lattice stockings, and high heeled, patent boots boggled his mind and scrambled his wits.

Lena lifted a shoulder. "Gotta relieve the stress somehow. This works." She pinned him with a bold stare. "It's not sexual, Welles."

He snorted. "Sure as hell looks that way." He glanced around her workspace filled with light bondage devices and other tricks of her trade.

Lena smirked. "Oh, Welles. You have so much to learn." And she wouldn't mind educating him.

The Marionette didn't do hardcore sadomasochism so the paraphernalia would be considered tame in most of the private facilities that catered to those who lived and breathed the lifestyle.

Welles frowned. "You think?" He folded his arms across his chest.

Lena huffed out a laugh. "Don't think. Know." She did a slow walk around the room. "But you'd never understand. Not if you think it's about sex." Lesson number one.

Welles cocked his head to one side. "So what's it about, Lena?" His skeptical tone belied the curiosity in his gaze.

She pursed her lips. "Finding order in chaos." The simplest way to start an explanation.

Welles rolled his eyes. "By smacking someone on the ass or putting their dick in a ring?" He shook his head.

Lena shrugged. "That happens sometimes. But you're missing the point." She stopped and waited, hoping to lead him exactly where she wanted him to go.

If he would open up to the possibilities, she could show him how exciting and rejuvenating a little playacting could be. Not to mention she'd love to get her hands on him more than just a little.

Welles finally asked. "And the point is…" He quirked an eyebrow.

Lena turned and walked toward the x-frame rack. "Control. Submitting to it and finding the calm in the storm." She glanced back and caught the doubtful look on his face. "Never mind. I told you you wouldn't get it." She ran her hand over the polished metal and gave the hand restraints a solid tug. "The concept is probably beyond you." Sliding her gaze sideways, she caught his reaction.

His arms dropped and his lips thinned. "So explain the concept then." He moved to the center of the room and settled down onto the spanking stool, a u-shaped, upholstered bench.

Lena shoved the vivid image of him draped over it, his ass on display while she chose which disciplinary tool to use.

Shaking her head, she pondered how to answer. "Look, the name of this club is The Marionette. It's all about role play here." She walked toward him, the heels of her boots making a click-clack sound on the tiled floor. "It's not a hard core S and M club. The guys, and girls, from the luxe quadrant come to enact fantasy scenarios. Maybe they're not getting what they need at home." She dragged a chair over and sat across from him. "Or they always have to be on point in their business meetings, or whatever. They're in high pressure situations, making all the decisions, and when they come here, they know exactly what to expect and none of the pressure is on them." They simply followed orders instead of giving them and let her make all the decisions.

Welles frowned. "Where do you come in then? All slicked up in latex, leather, and black lattice stockings." He did another once over.

Lena smiled. "I'm what guys dream about, Welles. A woman who can punish and reward, create tension before relaxation, and ultimately provide a satisfying end." And usually in ways no one expected.

Welles quirked an eyebrow. "How is that not about sex? If guys are getting off and blowing their wads, it's sexual." He barely kept the disdain from his voice.

Lena sighed. "First, not all of my clients seek that kind of release. Those that do strictly self-pleasure." She waited a beat. "And only if I give permission." She got up and paced back and forth. "That's the key, Welles. Giving them the okay to do what they want, but letting them not be the ones to decide." She stopped and faced him. "The experience is very freeing on an emotional level."

His reactions played out on his face for several long beats, skepticism followed by reflection until understanding finally dawned. About damned time. Lena didn't think she could paint a clearer picture of what she did and why.

Welles glanced around the space, his gaze lingering a little longer on the equipment. "Okay, Lena, I get it. And I can see how what you do relieves stress… on both sides." He huffed out a breath and slowly rose. "I'll file the report and note there's no conflict of interest here." He turned toward the exit.

Lena grabbed his arm. "Hold up, Welles. You're not at all curious to see if there could be a conflict?" She wanted him to stick around and let her put him through the paces.

Welles paused and faced her. "Is that a challenge?" He planted his hands on his hips.

Lena lifted a shoulder. "More like a dare, but call it whatever you want." Her lips curved.

Welles gave her a long, considering look. "Fine. Show me." He met her gaze with a bold stare.

Lena fought to keep her mouth from dropping open. She'd hoped, more like craved, getting him into this position. She couldn't blow her chance now.

She moved to stand toe-to-toe with him. "You're ready to give up total control?" Her fingers tingled with anticipation.

Welles gave a terse nod. "Yes, Lena." He held her gaze. "I submit."

A ripple of intense pleasure rocketed through her. She let a wide, slow smile spread across her face when she backed up several feet. Reaching into her pocket, she remotely closed and locked the door.

Putting on her game face, she lifted her chin. "From this point forward you will address me as Domina, do you understand?"

Welles barely kept his lips from twitching, but he responded. "Yes, Domina."

Several delicious scenarios sprang to mind and Lena couldn't wait to get started.

She inclined her head. "Good. Now strip."

This one is so much fun. Lena finally gets Welles exactly where she wants him.

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

ML Skye