Sunday Snippet: Flesh and Bone

Wow, half of July is gone and I'm trying to get my office organized and figure out how we're going to get my daughter moved into her dorm. If she can even move into the place. The clear out and organization is going better than expected. I ordered several types of smaller bookcases and some drawers to help corral all the crap I've had surrounding me for close to a decade. It's way past time.

I didn't get a ton of television watched this week but I do have a few updates. First, I'm still having feels about Arrow's final episode. There might be more coming about the series as a whole at some point.

Caught Roswell, New Mexico and honestly truly enjoyed the episode, "I'll Stand by You." The entire cast got some solid screen time and that makes me very happy. Special kudos for Michael and Isabel's arc and I loved Kyle telling Liz she's family because he gets what she means now. I'm starting to truly appreciate the complexities of the characters' interactions. So good.

Watched the penultimate episode of Strike Back and, damn, the cast brought their A games. Seriously, every single moment had me on the edge of my seat. The crazy fight between Coltrane and Wyatt topped the list because the size difference is almost comical but the entire point wasn't lost on me. The trio needed to clear the air and that was the best way to do it. And I'll freely admit I absolutely loved Chetri's journey. I love that she pretty gave a giant middle finger to her captors and that her end didn't happen before the team arrived. Another huge eff you to the antagonists. Excellent viewing. Seriously.

Started another new episode of Blue Heelers and this one is off the charts crazy. Different from the usual and I like that.

Began a rewatch of Hollywood Dirt, a Passionflix original. I love the chemistry between the actors and I also appreciate the fact that the casting department will go back to actors who are terrific.

Caught several episodes of Danger Man and both were ones I don't remember watching. Each ended up being terrific.

That's pretty much my week in a nutshell. Tonight's post is from Flesh and Bone, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

An AI that spouts philosophical mumbo jumbo, a past that may not be all it seems, and a link between both sends Peta Jones on quest to figure out the truth. It's a good thing she's got Abe Cantrell along to act as her voice of reason.

And a sneaky peek…

Abe Cantrell studied the interrogation footage. He shouldn't get involved, but one of the marines strongly suggested Abe needed to see what went down with the AI. Danvers also added—for Abe's ears only—that he should review the scenario before he went to see Peta in sickbay.

Abe let out a low whistle. "No shit. Glad he said something." Danvers had a soft spot for Peta because she reminded him of his little sister.

Abe's connection went deeper. He'd known Peta forever. Her grandfather and his met in basic training and remained close friends until Peta's lost his life in a car accident during peace time.

Directing his attention on the monitor again, he couldn't fault Peta's technique. "She's detached, but has to work at it." Which made sense, considering she'd never interrogated a prisoner before.

She even stayed composed when the progress stalled and harsher tactics had to be used but she wobbled a little.

Abe's gut clenched. He didn't blame her for the crack in her armor. She did her duty as ordered. But even he didn't like some of the forceful methods, which bordered on torture.

"Except we don't think of it as torture when it involves an AI."

The diplomats would be debating how to classify the artificial intelligence beings that looked and acted human. And, frankly, Abe would leave the discussions to them. He had opinions but the more he learned the more they changed.

"I want to talk to you and only you, lieutenant. If you make that happen, I'll tell you what you want to know."

Abe leaned closer to the screen. The Bensalem AI spoke quietly and directly to Peta. Peta motioned for the marines to leave after they got Bensalem seated across from her.

The discussion progressed rapidly and Peta got some solid information out of Bensalem.

Abe folded his arms. "But it's almost like it's playing her." Toying with its words until it could spring some kind of trap.

The male unit kept asking Peta nonsense questions—about her favorite foods, her preference for entertainment, and finally he asked something about her childhood.

Bam!

The exact moment the snare caught. Well, fuck. Abe rewound and viewed the footage again.

The AI homed in on a random event in her childhood—and pulled a thread. Abe couldn't hear the details but he read Peta like a book. From her reaction, the AI hit a raw, jangly nerve. There were parts of Peta's past she didn't talk about and Abe rarely pushed her to do so.

"Maybe I should have…"

Peta covered with a flippant comment. "We're not here to talk about me." She set the hands on the table then folded them together, presenting a relaxed countenance.

But the male unit had broken through one of her walls and wormed its way into her psyche.

Abe clenched his fist. "God dammit, old man. You put her in there." A kick of guilt jabbed Abe.

He shared the blame. After all, he'd told the commander Peta wanted more responsibility and could handle the extra load of work. She'd more than proven she could tackle hard assignments.

But interrogating an AI?

None of them had a lot of experience trying to get information from the units.

Abe leaned in again—focusing all attention on the male—and caught the split-second warning before it made its move.

"Fuck!" He still jumped when the male slammed Peta against the wall.

His gut clawed up to his chest and even the knowledge she got out—somewhat worse for the experience—didn't calm the racing beat of his heart.

The attack—and the viciousness behind it—lingered, even after the marines blew the door.

"Glad Danvers told me to dig into this."

The pain and defeat in Peta's eyes would stay with Abe a long time. The stab of fear he could have lost her wouldn't go anywhere either. The depth of what he really felt for her caught him by the throat—the exact moment Bensalem grabbed hers. The knowledge wedged itself deep and he didn't know what to do with the realization … but he had a good idea what to do for Peta.

Shutting the monitor down, he got up. "Be there. For whatever she needs."

I need to really dig in and tear this story apart. The sages keep feeding me scenes but they're random and aren't meshing together yet. It's time to get out the storyboard and start shuffling the pieces to see where they work the best.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Five by Five

I spent the past week wondering where half the year has gone quickly followed by feeling like it's been a decade since January. Anyone else have that experience? It's kind of insane how weird this year has been.

I did get a few shows watched while I worked on several projects. I had a week where I wanted some good background noise and got multiple episodes of Danger Man in. I truly enjoy this classic show.

I also started another episode of Blue Heelers. I'm almost through the second season of the show and I'm enjoying how things get changed up. I also love seeing how rural Australia is portrayed.

Have almost all of Riverdale's "Tangerine" in the watched column. Man, lots of reveals and good stuff in this episode. As much as I loathe and dislike Hiram, I kind of loved how Veronica sticks it to him. That said, I dread her storyline revolving around one-upping her dad all the time … if that's the direction the story goes in. Cheryl's situation with her mummy dearest ended up being a load of fun to watch. Archie's vigilantism biting him on the ass ended up being better than I thought it would be. Also loved Jughead finally getting to the bottom of the whole deal with his grandfather and the mystery books. And Betty … not quite sure how I feel about everything going on with her. I do have a theory about who's doing what to whom and I can't wait to see if I'm right.

Last but not least … I finally watched "Fadeout", the finale of Arrow. I have to say I couldn't have asked for a better end to the series. I'm so sad to see this chapter of the Arrowverse close but I'm also thrilled to have been a part of the experience from the very beginning. I got to watch the characters grow and change and become who and what they're meant to be. I think my favorite thing about this whole season are the callbacks to previous seasons and the cavalcade of familiar faces from the past—seriously, I don't think they missed anyone—and how they made Oliver's send-off worth its weight in green arrows. The fadeout with Oliver and Felicity in Moira's office ended up being pretty much a perfect endcap to the entire series. My glass is raised and my pile of tissues is testament to the emotional journey I took with the cast and crew of one of my very favorite shows ever.

Whew. I'm actually getting a kick in the feels all over again.

And that's a good note to wrap up television for this week. Tonight's post is from Five by Five, a sexy short that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Vasha Eick has everything she wants. Deke Vitali will be the cherry on top. An old rival shows up, shifting the dynamic and Vash has to stake a claim or get out of the way.

And a sneaky peek…

"I almost pulled it off." Vasha sprinted down the corridor, the thought still rolling around in her head.

Almost. But too-smart-for-his-own-damned-good Deke figured her sleight of hand out. Because of course he did.

Vasha made a quick turn, her side starting to ache from the crazy-mad run. She'd given escape her best shot, but Deke caught up just outside the head. Vasha ducked inside, breathless from the chase. Grabbing hold of the metal mesh of the lockers, she tried to catch her breath. Damn Deke and his wicked long legs.

He entered and stood with his arms folded over his chest. Between her and the exit. Well, hell. She hadn't thought a plan through at all. She straightened and slid her gaze toward the hatch. Wondered if she had enough time to get across the floor to duck back out before Deke could grab her and exact revenge.

Sensing her thoughts, he reached back and slid a wrench through the release, effectively locking them in. Shit. The man knew her too damned well.

She met his gaze and a triumphant smile edged over his features. She didn't think she quite liked his victorious grin. Deke could be scary creative when he had the upper hand. He slowly advanced toward her and she turned to face him fully. Not like she didn't deserve whatever he planned to dish out. She'd take it like the solider she'd trained to be.

Deke stopped, inches away from her.

She raised an eyebrow. "So, you caught me. Now what?"

He dropped his gaze and his eyes did a slow head-to-toe perusal. Sweaty, face flushed, she doubted her appearance looked very good. Tilting his head to the side, he studied her for several moments. Took everything she had not to squirm under the intense scrutiny.

His head straightened and he asked one simple question. "Why?"

Okay. Not what she expected. A blazing setdown for cheating, an angry blast for having to chase after her, she anticipated those.

Confused, she queried back. "Why what?"

He lifted a brow. "Naked briefing?"

A slow smirk crossed her face and she treated him to head-to-toe once-over. "You're kidding, right? If I have to explain that one to you, you're hopeless." Did the guy never look in a mirror?

He flushed, but acknowledged the backhanded compliment with a shrug. "Why cheat?"

He appeared more upset about the quick-change card thing than standing in front of a roomful of pilots without a stitch on? Wonders would never cease.

She chuckled, but dropped her gaze. "Hey, I'm just doing my bit for the female crew members." She tilted her head. "You do know they fight over who gets to shower at your usual times, don't you?"

His brows knit. He hadn't known. Of course, he wouldn't. Not in Deke's make-up to stay up to date about who lusted after him.

He shook his head. "They do? What the hell?"

Vasha's laugh came out sultrier than she intended. "Deke, you're hot. Of course they do."

He wondered aloud. "So the fact you're always in the shower at the same time?"

And again, Mr. Intelligence latched onto the one thing she'd rather he not. But whatever, she owed him an honest answer.

She admitted the truth. "I'm human. I like to look."

He grew thoughtful. "Interesting." His gaze pinned hers. "And good to know." He turned, yanked the wrench out, and released the hatch.

Leaving? Just when the conversation got good? And with zero retaliation?

She had to ask. "So … no payback?" Relief felt better than it should. He could still claim his win. "You're letting me off the hook?"

Deke shot her an unreadable look over his shoulder. "You're safe." He pushed the door open and walked through, but his voice carried back. "For now."

Vasha shuddered, a delicious shiver hitting all her hot spots. She ignored the implied threat and focused on the something different in his tone. A suggestive undercurrent, promising something more … but not what.

Or when.

Vasha had a feeling routine ship life might be a whole lot more fun in the near future.

I have so much fun writing Vash and Deke. This story started out as a little conflict-free romp but took a turn when the sages introduced the idea for a nemesis. I'm excited to see how it all comes together.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: First Time Laid Eyes on You

Well, July is off to a roaring start. Daughter's graduation party is scheduled for today and I'm hoping we have a good turnout but also spaced out over the three hours of the party. I'm filling out my blog post early and getting it ready to post beforehand.

Had a semi-busy week between work and the party prep, but I did get some solid television watched. I started out with Ms. Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries. This is a rewatch for me but I love the show.

Also caught another arc of Classic Who. The four-part Ark in Space episodes. Not a bad group.

Watched another episode of The Witcher and, ouch, kind of a heartbreaker episode. I did totally love the dragons though. Looking forward to the next episode.

Caught two more season three episodes of Danger Man. I don't remember either of them so I enjoyed watching.

And that's it for this week. I should have more time next week to dive into some of the shows I'm behind on. And I have to watch the finale of Arrow. I'll have at least two boxes of tissues on hand. Just saying.

Tonight's post is from First Time Laid Eyes on You, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nadia Blunt takes one look at Bart Uppermark and decides they'll make a great team in the air and on the ground. But when Bart shows zero interest in working together—she takes too many risks for his comfort zone—Nadia pulls out all the stops and proves him wrong.

And a sneaky peek…

Nadia Blunt kicked back in her rack, reviewing the specs for the new flight simulators. "About time we got updates. We've only been flying the new birds for two years now." She skipped over the listed programs, preferring to go in blind and pick a random scenario.

She'd already scheduled an hour in the machine, but got bumped to make time for a higher ranking officer. "Figures. Some bigwig usurps my spot." Not that she could complain … she'd been lucky she held the top spot during the last qualifying runs.

She rolled her eyes. Since the sparkly units were installed this morning, she couldn't wait to get her turn and thought she'd be the first one in. Not so much.

The hatch clanged open and her bunkmate burst through the space, skidding to a halt while gasping for breath. Nadia set the manual aside and straightened, waiting to see what had Jancie in a tizzy.

Jancie held up a hand and dragged air into her lungs. "You'll never ever guess who's on base right now." She paused, sucking in more oxygen. "Your fantasy dream man, Captain Uppermark." Jancie stepped forward and shoved Nadia's feet off the bunk then plopped down.

Nadia scrambled to her feet. "Parble, you'd better not be messing with me." Holy hell.

Jancie shook her head. "Not on this. I wouldn't. Not only is he here, he's the one who bumped you. He's in the simulator right now." She pointed toward the corridor.

Nadia all but tripped over her feet to get out of the bunkroom—with Jancie's laughter following her—and down to the simulator section. Nadia's fascination with Bart Uppermark went back a long way. She'd used his record as her benchmark, striving to break his records during her time in flight school. Having him on base, and being the one to take her scheduled time, had to mean something on the cosmic scale of what could go right in the universe.

Right?

Entering the corridor where the simulators were, she grabbed a petty officer. "Captain Bart Uppermark? Which sim?" If the captain only used her allotted space, he only had fifteen minutes left.

And she wanted to see every possible moment.

The petty officer sputtered and tried to sidestep her question.

She tightened her grip on his arm. "Now, petty officer." Her impatience almost boiled over.

He pointed to the door behind. "Sim three." Jerking his arm out of her grasp, he gave her a nasty look.

She quirked a brow, daring him to complain. She outranked him and, dammit, she needed to watch Uppermark in his element. Like she needed to breathe, or fly, or eat.

She cut the petty officer a break and patted him on the shoulder. "Thank you. Sorry for getting in your face." Moving past him, she put her hand on the knob to the viewing room.

And froze. She took a long moment to try and calm her racing heart.

I'm going to watch a master at work.

And not even be the least bit upset he'd taken her time.

I like how this story is coming together. The title will absolutely undergo a change, but it works for now. When it's ready for publication, it's too much of a mouthful. LOL

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fireworks

June is coming to a close and I can honestly say this feels like the longest effing year while at the same time the days are flying off the calendar. It's bizarre and baffling. 2020 is probably going to go down as the year I want to forget but won't be able to. LOL

Rather slow week of television but I did get a few things watched. I started with Kings of Broadway, a charity program on YouTube. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

Started season three of Danger Man and thought it would be color episodes, but it's not yet. Enjoyed the first episode.

Caught another episode of Strike Back and Strike Back Declassified. I've only got two episodes left and then I'll have to start a rewatch because I love these characters so much.

Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and look forward to seeing how it ends. I like this Aussie drama and have a feeling I'll be seeing a lot of familiar faces.

Watched another episode of Gargoyles. It's one I don't remember so it was nice to have something to sink into. I think I'm about a third of the way through the second season.

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

Here's the mini-blurb:

Adelle Lizt and Zeth McKibbet are a volatile mix—neither gives quarter when they know they're right. But with two sides to every situation, they find some common ground in a very interesting place—the guest quarters on base.

And a sneaky peek…

Zander McKibbet pumped out a rapid set of leg presses. He'd been at his workout for close to an hour and finally found his groove. Fifteen more minutes and he'd call it a day.

"Hey, McKibbet! You've got a phone call." One of the trainers brought a wireless handset out to him.

Zander growled. "Are you kidding me? I'm in the middle of my reps." He did the final three of his set and snagged the handset. "What?" His terse tone should make the other person shake in their boots.

"Bro, I'm gonna fail flight school if you don't help me."

Okay, his brother wouldn't cower in fear, but he should've at least clocked the suck-ass timing. Keith had a copy of Zander's schedule. Hence calling him in the middle of his workout.

Giving up the hope of finishing, Zander got up and wiped down the leg press. "Keith, slow down and explain what happened." Finals didn't start until the following week.

Keith huffed out a frustrated breath. "You've got to talk sense into my flight instructor. The stupid bitch just informed me I'm done. She won't even let me take the finals."

Zander frowned. How did that work? An instructor couldn't bar a cadet from taking the final flight runs. Unless they had a damned good reason. And, frankly, this did not count as something he wanted to get sucked into even if he understood how upset Keith must be. Hell, I'm upset for him. But Keith needed to grow a pair and stand up for himself.

Zander exited the gym and headed for the locker room. "Keith, I'm not keen on getting between you and your flight instructor. If it was one of my old ones, I might be willing, but I'm not familiar with Lieutenant Lizt." Other than being up on her credentials, which were impeccable.

Keith made a garbled choking sound. "Trust me, you don't want to be. She's a rank bitch."

Zander stopped walking and held the handset away from his ear. That's the second time Keith trashed his instructor. All because she's a woman? Shaking his head, he tucked the receiver between his chin and shoulder to open the locker room door.

Keith's voice took on a note of desperation. "Zan? Zan, are you there?"

Zander stopped at his locker and pulled it open. "Yeah, what were you saying?" They'd have an in-depth conversation about Keith's misogyny later.

Keith gave an exasperated sigh. "I'm begging here, Zan. Please. I mean, come on, bro. You know how disappointed Dad will be if I don't get my wings."

Zander rolled his eyes. Maybe. But he'd also probably like it if Keith actually earned them. The gold pips didn't just get handed out because someone wanted them.

Stifling that train of thought, Zander caved. "Fine. I'll stop by the training facility and at least speak to her; see if she'll sway her decision." His brother crowed his relief. "No promises, Keith. I'll talk to her. That's it."

Keith signed off. "Thanks, man. I know you'll pull through for me."

Zander stared at the handset. "Don't count on it." But he'd give the request his best try.

Only because he'd had a few truly crappy instructors who went out of their way to break students. And they'd piled on him because of his dad.

Zander wouldn't let the same happen to Keith.

I have to say, I'm very pleased with how this story is coming together. The sibling dynamic is one of my favorite things to write and I love Zander and Keith.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Finding Calm

June 21, 2020

I can't believe there's only one more week and a few days of June left. This year seems to be flying by so fast—even with a pandemic and social distancing.

Slow week of television again but a good one for client phone calls. I have a couple if potentially interesting new projects to be excited about.

I did finish up Danger Man with the last few episodes of season two. I'll be starting the color episodes this week along with the new title of Secret Agent. Should be fun.

I also got through the Riverdale episode I started last week and, surprisingly, it got better. I kind of understand where Alice came from but it still annoys me to no end. Veronica's savage takedown of Hiram made my week. I also ended up really enjoying the Cheryl session with the guidance counselor—whoever tagged Gina Torres for that role deserves a raise. I'm very intrigued by the cutaway end scenes. If not for my absolute complete and utter loathing of Hiram, I would be so set to keep watching this show. As it is, I literally hate that character so much, I'll probably only skim through the season.

I caught another episode of Roswell, New Mexico and thoroughly enjoyed it. I like Alex and Michael working as a team without the usual UST between them. Having them become actual friends is a great thing and I'm totally there to watch that happen. Loved having the former Max back as a Mains ancestor. Here's hoping he'll be available for more flashback scenes. I like where Isabel is headed and love what she did for Arturo and Liz. Also loved, loved, loved Kyle's scenes with his mom. I'm not quite sure how I feel about the dean's daughter storyline, but I'm down with whatever happens. I kind of have a tiny hope Kyle ends up hooking up with Cameron at some point … but that's only if Jessie doesn't have her abducted. I totally don't believe he's been shackled by anyone or anything. In fact, I'd lay odds he's the actual private security firm's leader. That's my prediction and I'm sticking to it.

Last but not least, I watched another episode of Peak Practice. I've been staying with the chronological order for now and I'm working my way through the second season. Should have it finished up within the month. I hope.

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

Here's the mini-blurb:

Sunny didn't realize how deep she'd gotten in with Hank until she'd been captured the first time. She'd been on leave and the ride she hopped got ambushed and held as a bargaining tool. She kept her head down and let her captors believe she belonged to the crew. Too bad they eventually found out she held rank in the military.

Josh Harstine, one of the other passengers made a valiant attempt to convince the enemy he was Lieutenant Sonny Gage, but it didn't fly. They'd either hacked the records or had an inside source and knew Lt. Gage happened to be female. The leader attempted to execute Josh, but Sunny made a flying leap to knock Harstine down and got shot for her efforts.

She woke up with a bullet wound; hazy, foggy, and subjected to the most bizarre questions about her reproductive health. Creeped out by the interrogator who claimed to be a doctor, his interest made her skin crawl. He poked and prodded and made too many inquiries. And he always added something to her IV whenever he left. It made her loopy and sleepy and she could never stay awake longer than a few minutes.

Sunny did start to wake up sooner, and it gave her time to do a quick assessment of her injury. She did not like the second scar she found just below the bullet wound. She ended up under forced sedation when she asked about the lower spot. She really didn't care for that at all.

When she woke up, she plugged the IV tube, crimping it so whatever drug they kept giving her couldn’t reach her bloodstream. She had a new person doing the poking and prodding, the creepy doctor nowhere in sight. Relieved, she thought she might finally get some answers, but she didn't get any further with the new guy. Instead of a constant stream of almost incomprehensible words strung together to sound like a sentence, the current doctor answered short, clipped bursts.

Sunny decided she'd had enough. When he pushed a syringe into the port on her IV, she again crimped the tubing and feigned falling asleep. She waited until her room darkened and very slowly made her way to the door. Pushing it open, she poked her head outside and blew out a relieved breath. The corridor empty, she quickly grabbed her medical chart and quietly closed the door.

Shuffling over toward the window, she read by the moonlight streaming in and gasped. The second scar didn't have anything to do with internal bleeding after the bullet had been removed. They'd taken one of her ovaries.

In all honesty, this one is a bit of a mess. The scenes keep coming and I love everything but it's going to need some slick polish when everything is said and done.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fevered Pitch

So far, June is shaping up to be a weird month. Work has slowed way down, which isn't an all bad thing. I've been very fortunate to have a steady flow when so many others have been furloughed or, worse, completely lost their job. That said, it's weird to have time on my hands so I'm hitting projects I've been putting off for ages. It's kind of wonderful and scary all at the same time.

Hit or miss week with television viewing. I haven't been watching as much as I normally do, mainly because I've been doing a good bit of writing. I did catch another episode of Danger Man. Almost finished with the second season.

I caught the penultimate episode of Arrow. Green Arrow and the Canaries ended up being more entertaining than I thought it would be. I'd watch the new version if it comes around.

Also started another episode of Riverdale. I'll be honest, I'm probably done after this season. Alice came such a long way and now she's back to being her obnoxiously overbearing self. I had so hoped she'd maintain her character growth. Bleh.

That's pretty much it for this week. Tonight's post is from Fevered Pitch, a bonus read featuring Hal and Mia from Mia's Choice.

Here's the mini-blurb:

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

And a sneaky peek…

Hot. So hot.

Hal startled awake, his skin burning, head pounding, and muscles aching. Why do I feel like a space carrier hit me? He flung the sheet off and tried to sit up.

Big mistake.

Everything hurt. Moving. Not moving. The light in the room too bright, too bold, too … much.

He reached out for Mia but met air instead. What the hell? Where is she?

He made an effort to sit up again. "Mia?" His voice croaked and, holy shit, it hurt to swallow.

Gentle hands pushed him back against the pillows. "Whoa, Hal. Take it easy." A cool cloth pressed along his forehead. "Here, drink." She held a cup to his lips.

Hal drank, swallowing the blessedly chilled water in deep gulps. The liquid slid down his throat, soothing the scratchy ache. He lifted his chin when finished and she set the cup on the stand next to the bed.

She left the cloth draped over his head and picked up another one and worked it behind his nape to rest on his neck. "You're feverish and hot to the touch. How're you feeling otherwise?" Her cool fingers laced with his.

Hal moaned. "Like I got run over with something big and ugly." He met her gaze. "I'm sorry. This sucks." So much for an extended reunion.

A knock sounded on the door and Mia rose to answer.

Jessup Main came strolling into the bedroom with his medic bag and ready smirk. "I expected you two to be too hot to handle for a couple of days, but not in the literal sense." He dropped the bag on the end of the bed and fished out his multi-unit, a mini-device that recorded health information and helped diagnose problems.

Hal groaned. "Dammit, Mia. Did you have to call Dr Snark?" He submitted to the bright light shined in his eyes but not without flinching.

Jessup frowned. "Your attempt at humor notwithstanding, this isn't good. Your temperature is too high, your pupils are more reactive than normal, and I'll bet your entire body feels like a festering wound." He switched out his multi-unit for an ice pack and activated it. "You've got something going on but here's the kicker…" He paused a moment. "I have no idea what the hell it is." His gaze swung toward Mia. "I think we will need to do a blood draw, just like you insisted." The ice pack took the place of the cloth behind his neck.

Hal shook his head. "Wait. What're you saying? Did we bring something back with us from the last planet?" His brain spun. "Is anyone else down with this?" How did the sensors miss the contaminant?

Dr Main rolled a shoulder. "I won't know where we picked this bug up until I take a look at the labs, but I'll be tracking the crew down to do some testing and find out if anyone else has it." He made short work of collecting two vials of blood.

Hal sent Mia a frustrated glance. "Put out a call. Have the Queen Amalie crew report to sickbay on the ship to be tested. And make sure anyone on board stays there." The entire station could be exposed by now.

He should be the one making the announcement.

Mia frowned. "Why not use the infirmaries here?" She tilted her head to one side.

Hal exchanged a look with Jessup.

Mia closed her eyes. "You're trying to limit the exposure. Keep this contained." She waved her hand between them. "Might not work because, well, we're not the only ones who had a single-minded idea of how to spend the next few days." She got up to make the call.

Hal muttered. "At least you have clothes on." He had a sheet, which frankly, felt more like a scratchy blanket.

Jessup snorted. "Trust me when I say this. You don't want clothes on right now. Think inferno and standing in the middle of it." He riffled around and pulled out several more cold packs.

Hal huffed out a breath. "Already there." He met his medical officer's gaze. "Why didn't whatever this is tag any alarms? I mean, I get this could be something we've never seen before, but the wide spectrum we use should've caught anything foreign." Fatigue made his head hurt more.

Main gathered up the vials and tucked them into a case, which he stowed in the bag. "Not sure yet, but I'll find out. In the meantime, I want Mia to keep you filled with fluids and I've already ordered an array of fruit to be left outside."

Hal narrowed his eyes. "You took precautions already." And why wouldn't he? Not the first time they'd dealt with contamination.

Jessup nodded. "Based on Mia's description of your symptoms, I figured you had some kind of bug. The fact we don't know what concerns me, but a virus is a virus. At least in the initial stages." He snapped his case closed. "I'll keep you posted. Take it easy and try not to be a pain in Mia's ass." He passed her on his way out of the bedroom.

Mia carried a tray with pre-ordered fruit. "Looks like all your favorites." She settled on the side of the bed and placed the food next to him. "Think you can eat anything right now?"

Hal picked up some watermelon and tried some. The cool fruit soothed his throat but he really wanted to sleep more.

Mia cajoled him into finishing the small bowl and talked him into drinking more water before she let him get comfortable again. He kept the ice pack behind his neck and Mia put another cool compress along his hairline.

Wrung out, he took her hand. "I'm gonna be fine. You know that, right?" Worry lines marred her forehead.

She gave him a quick smile. "I know you're determined to be okay. We'll see that how that works out for you." Smoothing her hand over his cheekbone, she leaned in to kiss his temple. "Rest for now."

Mia settled into the chair perpendicular to the bed and he started to drift off.

Not exactly how I thought the next few days would go.

A longer than usual preview, but I loved how this scene came together. Hope everyone enjoyed.

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

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Fail Me Now

Well, June is off to an auspicious start. Not only a pandemic still raging but global protests against police brutality and systematic racism. It's a wild time to be alive. Whew.

Not a bad week of television viewing overall, especially considering how intense this past week has been. I started out with some new Blue Heelers and almost finished up the episode.

Also caught several more episodes of Danger Man. I'm almost through the second season and should be starting the third soon.

I did indeed start Gabriel's Inferno and I've been catching bits and pieces throughout the week. This is a movie I want to watch during uninterrupted time so it'll take me a while to get through the full two hours. I'm excited there will be more to come with a second part to this and I think two more books to adapt. Good stuff so far.

Also did some additional listening to the Battlestar Galactica soundtrack for season three. I'm going to have to hunt down the works I don't have from Bear McCreary. He's truly a remarkable composer.

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

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 Best poked her head into her CO's quarters. "You wanted to see me, sir?" She hoped like hell he had good news for once.

The commander paused the video on the monitor and waved her inside. "I did." He pointed to the screen. "Watch this." He pressed the play button and the footage started again.

Indi blinked at the action taking place. A dogfight between the galactic concourse and enemy raiders played out in rapid fire sequence. The gun cameras caught the intricate maneuvers of the two sides, each a force to be reckoned with. Indi picked out several missteps from both arenas, thinking that might be why her CO called her in.

She leaned closer to the monitor. "Is that…" Her voice trailed off and her brain tried to wrap itself around what occurred next.

A freighter charged forward, slipping down below the battle playing out over its upper deck and bridge and carefully maneuvered its way through the flak coming from the big carriers below its hull and hold and managed to avoid plunging into the asteroid belt directly beneath the theater where the skirmish took place. And … somehow made it safely to the other side where concourse forces controlled the space.

Indi shook her head. "No effing way." How the hell did that ship make it through without a scratch?

She'd never seen anything like it before; neither the tactics nor the style of piloting the large ship between a raging battle taking place over and under the vessel. Impressed didn't quite describe the amount of awe filling her. Glancing toward the commander, she caught a brief flash of something cross his face. She assumed he marveled at the skill of the pilot also.

The CO turned to face her. "We need pilots who can fly like that." He pinned her with a hard gaze.

Indi pursed her lips, treading lightly. "I don't disagree, sir. But freighters are very different from our combat prowlers." The two didn't compare on any level.

Freighters had a crew of at least three, usually more. Combat prowlers were single pilot ships designed for speed and maneuverability. And shooting down as many of the enemy as possible. Freighters didn't have much in the way of weaponry, maybe a cannon rail that didn't have a lot of range or accuracy.

Her gut churned, warning her of what would come next.

The commander slid her a sideways glance. "You saying it's not possible? Because it's easier to teach people who already know basic flight." The low growl in his voice indicated he didn't want an argument.

Neither did Indi, but she pointed out the obvious anyway. "I'm not saying it's impossible, sir. I'm saying just because this guy can slip through a battle unscathed there's no guarantee he'll be any good or even have the aptitude to fly combat missions." Lots of pilots did well with maneuverability and control but cracked under pressure when bullets started flying.

The commander shook his head. "I can pretty much guarantee he's got the aptitude." His voice held a confident note…

And something else that gave Indi an inkling…

She narrowed her eyes. "What makes you so certain?" Did her CO know the pilot of the freighter?

The commander met and held her gaze. "He's my son."

Holy shit.

The rumor mill churned out fodder about Commander Teague Emerson's son, who pretty much thumbed his nose at his dad's career and decided to go his own way. Indi wanted to ask a zillion questions but she didn't. She waited patiently for Teague to explain exactly what he wanted from her.

I'm having so much fun with this story. I love Indi and Tate is very much like his dad, even if he hates the fact that he is. It's a joy to write these characters.

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

ML Skye