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It’s here! Release day is here! DARK PURSUIT ~ a collection of paranormal stories set around the theme of hunting, because someone has to hunt what lurks in the dark.

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The amazing Bronwyn Green, Jessica Jarman, Paige Prince and I have been having an awesome blog tour, which ends today. And as such, we’ll be picking the winner of our $100.00 Amazon gift certificate soon! Until then, here’s one last tidbit. Unfortunately one of the blog topics didn’t get posted, so here it is—favorite character.

Okay, so I’m tempted…oh so very tempted…to say Isabel. Why? Because she’s a vengeful spirit and kicking asses all over this side of the veil, that’s why. And who doesn’t love a villain who makes the good folks look even better?

But otherwise I’d pick Daniel. Mostly because he came into his new life from tragedy. And despite all his intentions and new-found skills—all the monsters he puts to rest—he’s still trying to banish that ghost from his past. His one true failure that never quite goes away. He’s loyal, cocky and once he makes up his mind—he’s all in.

Now without further delay, here’s the blurb and a sneak peek.

Not all souls go quietly.

After the brutal murder of his girlfriend thrusts Daniel Cartwright into the world of the supernatural, he’s finally adjusted to the reality that monsters are real. And not all souls cross over on their own. He’d thought banishing her spirit would bring him peace—allow him to move on. That is until her ghost returns—angrier than ever and hell bent on finally completing her mission. She wants Daniel to join her…and she’s not taking no for an answer.

Arrynn Baker has spent the past two years watching Daniel flourish into one of Threshold’s best hunters. Decisive, highly skilled—she’s proud to be his partner. There’s just one small issue… She’s fallen for the man. Hard. While she’s not opposed to taking him as a lover, she’s not convinced he feels the same—not with the distance he seems to maintain. The emotional walls he never steps beyond. Besides, mixing business with pleasure rarely ends well.

When a grisly new killing rocks both their worlds, lines get crossed, and Daniel knows he’s got a choice to make. Either be content with one night with Arrynn, or man up and jump in. But if he wants a future with the woman of his dreams, he needs to deal with his past, once and for all. Even if the solution takes grave measures.

 

Daniel.
Daniel jerked up his head, blinking the room into focus as he dragged himself back from the edge of sleep. Sunlight streamed through the windows, highlighting the specks of dust floating through the air. Another thirty minutes before the damn sun set and things really got interesting. The microwave beeped off to his left, the number pad flashing zero. Third damn time he’d reheated his coffee, and he had yet to remove it. He rubbed the back of his neck, tracing the scars that crisscrossed his skin, ignoring the way the marks seemed to burn from the simple contact. It was just fatigue getting the better of him.

You’re mine.

His stomach tensed as the ghostly voice played in his head, again, the eerie sound openly mocking his sanity. Three years—today—and she still haunted him. Awake. Asleep. It didn’t seem to matter. She merely waited until he’d managed to put himself back together before drifting into his life.

Forever.

He pushed her parting words out of his head, grabbing his mug. It was just his mind fucking with him. He’d vanquished her ghost. Burnt her damn remains and anything remotely connected with her. Done everything to being massive douchebags than anything else. Fuck, he wasn’t catching any breaks today.

Garret crossed his arms over his chest, giving Daniel a cocky grin. “Wow, Danno, you look like you haven’t slept in a while. What’s wrong? Casper giving you a hard time?”
Daniel bit back his usual retort at the nickname—just another dig against his previous life. He arched a brow. “Is it the full moon again already? Must be tough working three nights a month.”
Garret’s expression fell. “Doesn’t work like that, asshole.”

“Really? When’s the last time either of you bagged a wolf other than during a full moon?” He snorted as he pushed past them. “We all know you only hunt the newly turned. Seasoned werewolves are just too damn smart for you boys.”

Tanner hooked Daniel’s arm as he moved past him. “At least we don’t waste our time chasing a fucking mist. Your unit’s a joke.”

Daniel yanked away his arm, drawing himself up, when boots clicked on the floor behind him. He turned as Arrynn entered, auburn hair bouncing behind her in a ponytail, amused smile tilting her lips.

She hitched out a hip, giving the men the once over headed for their office, her lips still curved into a smile.

Daniel rolled his shoulders, gently easing free of her grasp. “I don’t know why you’re smiling.”

“Because, even after two and a half years, you still let them get to you. They’re assholes with more arrogance than sense. Boys playing dress up.”

“Yeah, well, if they keep running their mouths off, someone’s going to see they end up being wired shut.”

Now hop on over to the other ladies and join in their release day fun.

Bronwyn Green  |  Jessica Jarman  |  Paige Prince

It’s random Wednesday time, and as it’s the start of the month, it’s another Favourite post. This month ~ Holidays. Now, I’ll be honest. When I was younger, I embraced pretty much every holiday. Pumpkins and decorations at Halloween. An Easter tree with tiny ornaments, plus chocolate egg hunt for Easter. Valentine’s Day cards. Pot of gold stuff for St. Patrick’s day…green beer! (Okay, maybe green ‘fruity’ drinks, but it’s the same…) You name it, I embraced it.

However…I’m not sure if it’s the fact most holidays are so commercial, or just not wanting to fall for the hype. Or just how expensive it’s all become, but holidays—they’ve digressed into mostly a week I get a break from lunches and school and extra activities. It’s sad, people. SAD!

However, there’s still one holiday I do still love and at least do some decorating. And I’m sure you’ve guessed it. Christmas. It’s the one holiday that’s retained it’s charm. That still feels special, though I think it’s far too commercial. More about getting the right present than being with family. But, I still have favourite things about Christmas…

Music — Who doesn’t love Christmas carols.

Hey, you tend to listen to what you grew up with… and it was Johnny Mathis and… the Carpenters.

 

A “cut-your-own- Christmas tree. And yes, we will search for hours if necessary. And outside lights, but on the trees and bushes. Not so much the house, though a bit is okay.

 

And all the Christmas movies…

And practically any other sappy one. Home Alone 2, Miracle on 49th Street. Hell, there’s probably a Dukes of Hazard Christmas special. I’ll watch damn near anything.

And yes, there’s the food, but that’s not really it for me. Now check out the other ladies. I’m sure they have lots of lovely faves and of more than just Christmas.

Bronwyn Green  |  Jessica De La Rosa  |  Kellie St. James

Gwendolyn Cease  |  Paige Prince

 

 

And it’s flash picture Monday again, already. I can’t believe September is gone, that summer is officially over and there are only eighty days until Christmas. You all know there will be Christmas stuff in the stores. Hell, Costco already has wrapping paper and other items…

Anyway, I have to say I love the picture for this month, mostly because it lends to any type of story. A true cross-genre kind of image. For me, I looked at it and knew I wanted to write something different. So I’m going with a kind of odd one. It’s linked to my upcoming release Grave Measures. Not something that will be in the book, but… I think it will give a cool insight. So, without further delay here’s the pic and my tale.

 

Where is he? He should have caught me by now.

Isabel stopped along the trail, glancing back over her shoulder. Birds chirped in the trees, as the sun slowly headed toward the horizon. She caught a glimpse of the lake through the foliage—the waning light glinting off the smooth surface, making it look like diamonds dancing along the water.

She drew a deep breath, drinking in the scent of moss and pine. She couldn’t remember the last time her and Daniel had come here. Took time for them. He was always so busy—an endless pile of cases sitting on his desk, waiting to snatch away more of his time. Of him.

Isabel frowned. She hated his work. Hated that he put the lives of everyone else ahead of their life together. That there was always something—someone—more important. How she’d go to bed, waiting…knowing that the phone would ring and he’d been gone. Of course, they hadn’t been sharing a bed for months.

Her stomach flipped. This was crazy. What on earth had made her think one day removed from the rest of the world would change things? Change them? As long as Daniel coveted that silver shield in his pocket, a part of him would never belong to her. And believing anything else was simply foolish.

She looked back again. Nothing but swaying branches as the wind kicked up just a bit, lifting her hair off her shoulders. She closed her eyes, enjoying the way the gentle breeze cooled her skin as it fluttered her white dress against her body. She’d bought it just for today. A symbol of hope. A way of bringing back the girl he’d fallen in love with.

That annoying voice in her head snickered, taunting her with the fact that he’d never truly loved her. That what had started out as a string of passionate encounters had quickly ebbed into a mundane routine. One that didn’t seem to include each other, lately. She’d never really stopped to consider how easily they’d slipped out of each other’s lives. How she’d found ways to fill the void without really trying. Of course, Daniel had turned to his work, spending seemingly endless hours at the precinct. Doing everything he could to avoid her. Avoid being alone with her, not that she could really blame him. She hadn’t made living with her easy, and she knew the fact she despised his job was at the root of all of their problems.

She reached into a small pocket on the side of her dress, removing a folded photograph. It’d been taken just a few weeks prior—the first time they’d agreed to be together in months. Daniel’s best friend, Jacob, had bought them tickets, tagging along as a tangible buffer zone. The man had been patient, considerate, doing all he could to help them bridge the gap. And it’d worked—sort of. They’d talked and agreed to this date. To come to where it’d all started and give their future together one more try.

She hadn’t been convinced Daniel would actually take the time off, but he’d surprised her with flowers and a picnic basket. A soft blanket to spread on the edge of the lake. He’d wanted to come near sunset, so they could watch the sky bleed from yellows into reds—listen to the loons call to each other across the water. Recreate their perfect date.

She sighed at the thought. While she didn’t consider herself superstitious, even she realized that it was impossible to reclaim lost love. That it never resurrected close to what it’d once been. But she’d gone along, willing to try. Or was it just her fear of change? Of looking back and seeing their time together as wasted? Of having to admit it was her love that had died, not his. That no matter what he did—how much he gave—it’d never be enough. That he simply wasn’t enough.

She pushed aside the uncertainties, wondering if Daniel had decided to just walk away, when footsteps sounded behind her. She turned, gasping when a man stepped out from behind a tree, his brown eyes gleaming in a shaft of sunlight. She placed a hand over her chest, her rough breath sounding loud amidst the trees.

She tsked him. “Damn it, Jacob, you scared me half to death.”

Jacob’s gaze traveled the length of her body, pausing in places it shouldn’t have. An odd expression spread across his face as he looked behind him. “Where’s Daniel?”

She shrugged, shoving away the prickling feeling. She’d never felt uneasy around the man before. Seemed silly to start now. “He’s coming. He likes to let me have a head start. The whole ‘chase’ thing, I suppose. What are you doing here?”

“Just making sure you’re okay. I know Daniel, and to be honest…I wasn’t convinced he wouldn’t just bugger off. And the thought of you standing here, alone…”

She smiled, though something about the way he’d said, ‘alone,’ sent another shiver along her spine. She rolled her shoulders back, giving him a false smile. “I’m sure he’ll be along any second.”

Jacob sighed. “He’s not right for you, you know that, don’t you?”

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me, Isabel. As much as I love Daniel, he’s not the kind of guy you need.” He walked toward her, brushing his fingers along the leaves as he walked, making the bushes bounce. “You need a man who’s going to put you first. Who worships you and treats you like the queen you are. You need someone who’ll always be there for you.”

“Daniel might not put me first, but he’s always been there when I really needed him.”

“Like now?” Jacob closed the distance, thumbing her jaw. “Where is he now, Isabel? How is it I reached to you before he did? ”

“I…I don’t know. But he’ll—”

“Be here any moment. Yes, you’ve said that. A few times.” He twirled a lock of her hair around his finger. “You deserve better than him. You deserve me.”

Her stomach dropped at his words, her heart racing wildly inside her chest. She tried to step back, but he matched her movement as his fingers slid into her hair, fisting it. She palmed his chest, trying to shove him away. “What the hell? Damn it, Jacob, you’re his best friend.”

A cruel smile twisted his lips as he backed her against a tree. “His best friend. What I am is the man who’s watched him squander away everything good in his life. Here you are, willing to give him yet another chance and he’s still standing in the damn clearing—thinking. Deciding if you’re worth it. But I’m not. I’m here. Ready. I’ve been ready for so long. Have tried to make you see that I’m so much more than him. That my love for you burns true.”

Fear slithered across her flesh, beading it with goose bumps. “I don’t understand. What are you trying to say? That you’re in love with me?”

“Forever. I’ve been in love with you for forever. And I know you love me, too.”

She shook her head, bouncing her hair about her shoulders. “I’m sorry, Jacob, but I don’t. In fact, I’m not sure I love Daniel, either, but…I need to find out. To see if he was the one.”

“He doesn’t love you. Not like me.”

“Jacob—” Her voice cut off as he crushed his mouth to hers, making her lips sting before pulling back.

Desire darkened his eyes as his smile widened. “Mine. You’re mine, Isabel.”

She held her breath, unsure whether to kick him or scream when more footsteps sounded farther up the path. Jacob glanced in the direct she’d come from, before turning back to her.

He sighed, tightening his hold. “I’m afraid I can’t let him find us. Not yet. Not until I’ve made you love me.”

She opened her mouth to scream when he covered her face with a cloth. A sickeningly sweet aroma filled her senses, turning the scenery into a swirl of gray. Strong arms enfolded her, a warm breath tickling her neck.

“You’ll never be free. And if I can’t have you, neither can Daniel.”

 

And that’s it for me. I hope you enjoyed my story. Please check out the other ladies joining in this week….

Bronwyn Green  |  Jessica De La Rosa  |  Kellie St. James

Kayleigh Jones  |  Jessica Jarman

And it’s time for another flash fiction inspired by a song. But best of all, it’s another Canadian content! No, not Nickelback. I know, I’m horrendously sad, as well. I should have made all 4 of mine from them. But…trying something new.

This month is Guardian by Alanis Morissette. Now, I’ll be honest. I’m not a huge Alanis fan, but this song. I love this song. If you’re unfamiliar, here’s the video. And without further ado, here’s the story inspired by it. It’s actually a bit from a book I’m gong to be writing currently titled ROPE’S END.

 

“Christ.” Ranger Rylan Jennings brushed the back of his hand across his mouth as he stared at the mangled body splattered across the gray rock. The dim glow of the rising sun glinted off patches of snow and ice, accentuating the vibrancy of the red against the pristine white. “It’s far too early in the morning for…this.”

Sheriff Johnson shrugged. “Falling a few thousand feet does take a toll.” He arched a brow. “Have to admit. My deputy was mighty surprised to see a National Park Service truck pull up at the station. Ask for a ride out here. Thought you Ranger types dealt with poachers and lost hikers?” The man tipped his hat. “No offense intended, Ranger.”

Rylan raked a hand through his hair, surpassing the yawn that threatened to crack his jaw. “None taken. As for my involvement—our friend here died within the North Cascades Park boundary. Means it’s NPS jurisdiction. Not that I don’t appreciate your help.”

Johnson chuckled. “Always happy to help out our federal brothers. So, you draw the short stick this morning?”

“If only. I was passing through when your dispatch called it in. Was traveling back from a rescue mission west of here. Been a long week.”

Johnson nodded. “Well, this looks pretty open and shut. Guy obviously fell while climbing the route to the top of Eldorado Peak. Rope’s still tangled in the rocks. Got a garbled call last night, but with the strong winds—weren’t able to access the body until about an hour ago.”

“Weather tends to be questionable this time of year.” Hell, he’d damn near chucked his coffee on the chopper ride over. Rylan moved closer kneeling beside the body. “Any ID?”

“We found a wallet several meters over there…along with more bone fragments. If the Driver’s License is correct, this here’s ex-Seargent Darren Dyck. I knew the man, not that I can identify him in his current state. But if this is Darren—he was loud, pretty full of himself, a bit of trouble maker. Mostly bar fights, traffic violations. After leaving the service a couple of years back, he joined a local organization called The Watchmen. Did a lot of climbing and hiking around these parts.”

Rylan arched a brow. “The Watchmen?”

Johnson grinned. “Nothing like what you’re probably imagining. Just a small group of people who take it upon themselves to see this area stays safe for all to enjoy. Often avoid us having to call in Search and Rescue simply by being available. Talented lot. Won’t find more skilled climbers or mountaineers around these parts.”

“Yet, here’s one at the bottom of a cliff from an apparent climbing accident.”

The other man shrugged again. “We all have bad days, Ranger. And from the looks of it, his harness gave way. Buckle’s wrenched in half.”

Rylan removed a pen from his jacket, using the tip to lift the item in question. The twisted metal gleamed in the rising sun. “That happen often?”

“Equipment failing? Not that I’ve ever heard of. But I suppose there’s a first time for everything.”

“Right. Because that’s the easy explanation.” Rylan scanned the steep rock face in front of him. “What’s the rating on this climb?”

Johnson flipped through his notes. “I asked that same question. I was told around a five-eight.”

Rylan snorted. “A five-eight? Shit, if this guy’s one of your most skilled climbers, he could do that in his sleep.”

“Was. Haven’t seen him around for nearly a year. Not since they booted him out.”

“They? Who’s they?”

Johnson exhaled, a small misty cloud billowing around his face. “The Watchmen. Revoked his membership. Got themselves a new leader, or so I’ve been told. Dyck, here, had moved on as far as I was concerned.”

“So why is he back and in more than a few pieces?” Rylan stood, tapping his finger on his chin. “He leave on bad terms?”

“Don’t really know. Though getting booted doesn’t suggest it was a mutual decision.” Johnson closed his notebook, tucking it inside his pocket before removing a small card. He handed it to Rylan. “If you’d like to know more about The Watchmen, I suggest you contact them directly.”

Rylan took the card, smiling at the pretty face stamped on the paper. “Who’s this?”

“That’s Bryony Willson. Folks around here call her Brie. Her callsign with the group is Angel.”

“Angel, huh? Is that because she’s pretty?”

“That she is, but it’s because of what she does. Paramedic. Angel’s short for angel of mercy. She’s also a guide. Does trips all over these hills. Girl’s got balls to spare, if you ask me. She and Darren were a thing for a bit. Not sure what she ever saw in the guy. She’s way out of his class, but… Guess there’s always a reason.”

Rylan glanced at the body then back at the sheriff. “She part of the reason he got booted?”

“My gut tells me she was the only reason, but… No one ever confirmed it, and I didn’t ask. Honestly, I was happy to see the guy go. If she’s not out on a trip, she’ll be at that address in town.”

Rylan nodded, tucking the card in his pocket. “I’ll go pay the girl a visit. Can I rely on your team to bag the evidence for me. I’ll swing by your office and gather it.”

“Will do. I’ll have our doctor take a look at the body. See if there’s anything obvious, though with the amount of damage…”

“Appreciate it.” Rylan turned, heading toward the helicopter.

“Ranger Jennings?”

Rylan glanced at the man over his shoulder.

Johnson shoved his hands in his pockets. “The rest of that group—they’re good folk. Hate to see their names dragged through the mud over one lost soul. Especially one that’s as tarnished as Dyck’s was.”

“I’m just after the truth, Sheriff. I’m sure you’re right. Guy probably just fell. Maybe he’d had too much to drink. Didn’t notice his buckle was damaged. Lots of possibilities.”

Johnson nodded, though Rylan could tell it was merely for show. Which meant the good sheriff was hiding something. He gave his pocket a tap. He’d bet a warm shower and an even warmer bed that it had something to do with the angel in his pocket.

 

And that’s it for me. Just a start, really, but… check out the other two ladies and read their awesome stories.

Bronwyn Green  |  Jessica De La Rosa

 

As always, I need at least a few words. Though I do love these posts. Okay… here is what summer means to me…in no particular order and if you don’t get some… well, that’s okay. Now some of these are iconic to summer for me. The photos might be recent, but it’s something we do for the summer. Like mountain biking. While I might venture out other times, it’s an iconic summer sport. Hope you enjoy the photo montage…

 

But in the end… this video says it all…

 

Now go see what the other ladies have…

Bronwyn Green  |  Paige Prince  |  Kellie St. James  |  Jessica Jarman

Jessica De La Rosa  |   Gwendolyn Cease

And so, it has arrived. The time I dread. BACK TO FREAKING SCHOOL. I know…lots of parents love when their kids go back. And it’s not school that’s the depressing part. It’s back to driving, to hockey. To aerial arts, tumbling…lunches and homework. To all the things that suck up time and drive me to the brink of sanity. Sure, I’ll love the few hours of quiet in the house, but honestly…I already had that. Teenagers translates into vampires. So I had mornings of quiet already, lol. Now…now I’ll be driving to school and scheduling all my stuff around their stuff.

Anyway, that’s not the topic of the blog. It’s actually another picture flash fiction. An interesting photo this month…and once I started writing, I realized it’s a quick peek into a story that will release next Halloween—the second book in a series that starts this year. A collection I’m doing with some fab ladies from here. I don’t have titles folks…titles are hard, but…here’s the pic and the story.

“What the hell is that?”

Piper Collins couldn’t quite crush the roll of her eyes as she stared at Tanner and Garret, their joint expressions making her wish she could slug the cocky smiles off their faces. Hunters. Christ, if she never had to deal with another one as long as she lived…

She released an impatient sigh. “It’s apparently ignorance masquerading as a key.”

Tanner snorted. “I know it’s a key, Piper. I’m not fucking blind. What I meant was…why the hell are you giving it to me? Because unless it opens some magical box that’s going to save our hides, I don’t see the importance of it right now.”

“It’s iron.”

“So?”

Piper pursed her lips to stop the groan from breaking free as she made eye contact with Garret. “Please tell me you’re the brains of this twosome because I’m about ready to stab your partner with his own damn stake.”

Garret frowned. “We hunt werewolves, not vampires. We don’t use stakes.”

“For the love of…” Piper hissed out her next breath. “I know you hunt werewolves. I was trying…forget it. The key is made of iron, which means it repels ghost. Faeries, too.”

“Faeries? Seriously?”

“They’re real. Trust me. And they deserve respect.”

“Even if that’s so—and I really doubt it—I hardly think they’re a threat. Aren’t they like the size of an insect or something?”

Piper shook her head. “Just take this, okay? I have two extras. You both need to keep one on you. Wear it around your neck or in your pocket. Anywhere you can get to it quickly.”

Garret’s frown intensified. “Need I remind you, we’re hunting a weres—”

“Just humour me, Garret, okay?”

The man sighed, taking the key then handing the next one she held out to his partner. She nodded her thanks, despite the fact the look he gave her clearly indicated he thought she wasn’t quite sane. She chuckled inwardly at the thought. If only he knew how close to the truth that was. Not that she was crazy. She wasn’t. But more than a few people perceived her that way, especially considering her abilities.

She glanced away. As far as they knew, she was merely an information gatherer who’d stumbled upon a possible lair when she’d been in the wrong place at the wrong time. A reluctant guide of sorts. And the less they knew about her, the better—especially considering the way they made her feel. As if she was the prey they were stalking instead of a wolf. She’d heard about their unique partnership—that they shared more than just office space—and the last thing she wanted was to be another notch on their bedpost. Another creature they’d conquered.

Woman. Not creature.

But fuck, she sure didn’t feel completely human. Not with her skin practically glowing from the evil she felt residing within the abandoned hospital before them. Whether it really was a werewolf infestation, she couldn’t tell, but there was definitely something hiding within the walls—an evil the other half of her sensed on an intimate level. And given the body she’d found—the feeding she’d interrupted the previous night—it made sense. Except for the uneasy feeling in her gut that told her this was far more complicated than a simple werewolf problem. That what hide in the shadows was older—more dangerous. She jumped when a hand landed on her shoulder, jerking her head around to look at Tanner.

He frowned, cupping her arm as he stepped closer. “You okay?”

She feigned a smile. “Of course. It’s just the sun’s going down. That gives evil the advantage.”

Tanner glanced at Garret, then back to her. “Look, you’ve done your part. You got us here. Why don’t you just go wait in the truck? We’ll take a look around, deal with any threats—”

“I’m coming in.”

Piper cursed the impulsive reply. She hadn’t meant for it to sound like a mixture of desperation and determination. That there was no way she’d accept no as an answer. But she’d learned to trust her instincts—her heightened senses. And they were clearly telling her the boys might be walking into more than they bargained for.

Tanner arched a brow. “Aren’t you a desk jockey?”

She firmed her stance. “I’ve had field training.” She scoffed at their joint groans. “I can handle myself. Besides, I didn’t find the body out here. It was in one of the rooms. Thinking you’ll want to see the kill site for yourselves, and I can’t really explain how to get to that room. I’ll just know it when I see it.”

Tanner inched closer. “I’m sure you’re a real badass, but—”

“I’m coming. Period. And if you refuse, I’ll just follow once you go inside, so…which is it, gentlemen?”

Garret huffed. “God, you’re a pain in the ass. Fine. You can tag along…” He closed the distance between them, hovering within reach of her lips. “But I swear, if you so much as put a finger in jeopardy doing some lame-ass attempt at hunting, I’ll tan your butt.”

Her body heated at his words, the thought of having his palm redden her ass having a strange, arousing effect. She raised her chin, not willing to look away. “Wouldn’t dream of stealing your thunder.”

Garret shook his head. “Women. Okay, Princess, after you.”

She walked forward, glancing at them over her shoulder. “Everyone at the centre warned me you two were arrogant jerks. Who knew they’d be right.”

Tanner snagged her wrist when she tried to take her next step. “There’s a fine line between arrogance and skill, sweetheart. You’d best remember that.”

“There’s also a fine line between bravery and stupidity. That might be one you two should pay close attention to.” She tugged her arm free. “You boys coming?”

She thought she heard Garret mumble something that sounded like, “not soon enough,” but she ignored it. If she wasn’t convinced there was something other than a werewolf lying in wait inside, she’d have gladly stayed in their damn truck. But she wasn’t willing to risk their lives just so they could play heroes.

Garret fell into step behind her, moving silently as she picked her way through the building, heading for the room on the far side. Uneasiness prickled her skin, the hairs on her nape warning her they were being watched. She pushed forward, finally arriving at the doorway. She pointed to it. “The woman was inside—ripped to pieces. I tried to heal some of the wounds but…” She shivered. “There wasn’t anything I could do for her.”

“Heal?” Garret looked at her. “You mean treat, right?”

She cursed under her breath. Damn, it wasn’t like her to make that kind of a slip. “Treat. Right. I tried to treat her wounds, but she was already too far gone. Not enough soul left to save.”

Garret snorted. “Has anyone ever told you that you talk funny?” He held up his hand when she glared at him. “Don’t worry. It’s kind of cute.” He motioned behind him. “Might be best if I go first.”

She merely waved him forward, keeping watch behind them as Tanner motioned for her to follow his partner. She walked into the room, looking away from the large red stain on the floor, bits of cloth still littering the scene.

Garret moved over to the area, crouching as he took a few swabs. “Must have gruesome. Can’t imagine how helpless you felt. I’m sorry for that.”

She furrowed her brow. Was he actually being sincere?

Tanner brushed her arm, gaining her attention. “What Garret said. I’m sure it was horrific. But what I don’t understand is how you even heard her all the way over here. I mean…shit, it’s on the other side of the building.”

Piper stilled. Damn, she hadn’t thought that part through, and she was pretty damn sure the truth wouldn’t help the situation. “I guess her voice carried with most of the building being empty. And once I ventured inside…it wasn’t that hard to pinpoint.”

Tanner’s expression indicated he didn’t quite believe her, but he nodded, walking around the place. “Betting she was jumped outside, then dragged in here. Can’t imagine most folks would come in here for fun.”

“Unless she was a ghost hunter or something.”

Tanner scrunched up his face. “She was an amateur if so. One who had no idea ghosts were the least of her worries. There’s been a lot of activity lately. Almost as if the paranormal side has awakened. Not sure I want to know what from.”

“Maybe it’s more of a gathering.”

She cursed again when Tanner gazed over at her, brow furrowed. Shit, she was doing a lousy job at hiding that she was far more intimately aware of unnatural creatures than a mere scholar.

Garret nudged her. “Are you sure you’re just a reader? Because you don’t talk like someone who only studies these things from the safety of a desk.”

“Pretty sure…”

Her voice trailed off as the air around them charged, the energy raising the hairs on her arm. She glanced at the door, inhaling when a misty form phased through it, hovering off to one corner. It didn’t come any closer, its silhouette constantly flowing from one shape into another.

Garret’s hand landed on her arm. “Piper? You okay? All the colour just washed out of your face.”

She tried to look away but failed.

He shook her. “Piper?”

She shifted her eyes so he’d know she’d heard him. “Don’t you see it…”

He looked expectantly at her. “See what?”

“In the corner…there…” She grunted when he glanced around but shook his head.

“I don’t see anything. Maybe you should tell us what you see.”

She back-pedalled. “Nothing. Must have been a trick of the light. Maybe you guys were right. Maybe I should wait…”

Her breath stuck in her throat when the spirit stopped shifting, forming one solid shape. The grisly creature bared its teeth as it slowly moved forward. Garret spun, eyes widening as if just now seeing the animal. Tanner followed suit, immediately drawing his weapons as he stepped in front of Piper. He motioned for her to get down as he fired off a shot, the bullet impacting the wolf-like animal without having any effect. Tanner swore, releasing another round, yelling at Garret to get her out of there.

Garret tugged on her arm when the animal lunged at Tanner, knocking him back, a series of marks gouged across his chest, the red lines already starting to bleed. Garret, moved in front of Tanner, blocking the creature’s way. The animal snarled, snapping its jaws at them as it continued to stalk forward.

“Stop!” Piper held out her hands, allowing her power to surge to the surface. “One more step and I’ll be forced to destroy you.”

Both men glanced at her as her voice resonated through the room, the lilting quality to it impossible to miss. Their eyes bulged impossibly wider as they took in the angelic glow of her skin that seemed to suddenly fill the room with a light. The creature turned toward her, shrieking in seeming pain before coalescing back into a mist and disappearing out the door.

She turned to them, ignoring the panicked look in their eyes. “We need to leave. Now. Before it comes back. Despite my threat, I’m not sure I can kill it.”

Tanner didn’t speak as Garret helped him up, shouldering the other man’s weight as Piper led the way. They backtracked through the building, breaking into the growing darkness. Her skin seemed even brighter as she picked her way to the truck, gasping when Garret grabbed her arm and spun her to face him.

His expression hardened, a silver blade in his hand. “It appears you have some explaining to do. What the hell was that thing? And more importantly…what the hell are you?”

 

That’s it for me folks. Go on over and read the awesome stories from the other ladies.

Bronwyn Green  |  Jessica De La Rosa  |  Kayleigh Jones

Kellie St. James  |  Paige Prince

Hey all. I’m crying. August is already HALFWAY THROUGH!!!! How is that even possible? I don’t want summer to end. I don’t want to go back to school, and lunches and timetables and schedules and endless hours at the arena. I want to stay with long, summer nights, warm breezes, my kids turned vampires and no, I repeat, no schedules other than mine!

But, sigh…guess I’ll have to make peace with it. Or go kicking and screaming…yeah, kicking and screaming. Anyway, it’s already time for another music flash fiction. This month’s song is called Rootless Tree by Damien Rice. He’s hilarious most of the time, but here’s the ballad version of the song. And because I’m trying to finish my Halloween story for a collection… no, I don’t have a freaking title yet, thanks for reminding me… it’s going to tie into that. Which actually ties into the picture fiction from this month, as well. More Daniel… which tied into last month’s picture fiction. Yes, I also see the trend here. Work with me, folks. If you want to read the others, here’s July’s picture, and August’s picture. Or just jump right in…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiGrRTTPZAE

 

“Thanks for the lift, Arrynn. See you in a couple of days.” Daniel shut the door to her car, taking a few steps away when the window rolled down. He glanced back over his shoulder, doing his best to keep his expression even—same way he had all shift.

Arrynn frowned, staring at the moon heading toward the distant horizon. “I didn’t want to say anything with Jimmy around. Then it never seemed like a good time…”

He arched a brow. “Say what?”

“You should have taken today off. Should have given yourself that luxury.”

His teeth clenched together, and he knew the muscle in his temple was flexing with every damn breath. “I’m fine. Would have stayed home if I thought I couldn’t handle it.”

She snorted. “Fuck, you’re stubborn. It’s not about handling shit. It’s about allowing yourself to be human, you dumb sod.”

“Thanks. I think you’re special, too.”

He cursed as the words came out with more raw emotion than he’d planned. And fuck, he could tell by the way she inhaled, she’d noticed. Hell, she always noticed.

Arrynn sighed. “You’ve got my number if you decide you ever want to…talk.”

She rolled up the window, checked over her shoulder then took off, her car quickly fading into the darkness. Daniel watched until the headlights disappeared before turning and walking up the path to his door. He climbed the short set of steps to his front door, drawing a deep breath before twisting his key in the lock and swinging the door open. A single light burned in the kitchen, the dull glow sending a shiver down his spine.

Didn’t matter that he’d been coming through the door for months, he still expected to see some evidence of Isabel. That despite all he’d done—all Arrynn and Jimmy had helped him accomplish —he hadn’t managed to fully free himself. That a part of her would always live on, even if it was just in his imagination.

He headed for the fridge, grabbing a Smithwicks before continuing into the living room. He kicked off his shoes, placed his feet on the coffee table and relaxed back, taking a long pull of the cold liquid. The beer soothed the edgy feeling prickling his skin, and he closed his eyes, allowing his mind to drift. He still couldn’t believe he’d only been working at Threshold for under six months. God, it felt longer. Lifetimes.

An image of Isabel flashed in his head. One year. Today. Hell of a way to spend an anniversary. Shit, hell of an anniversary to have. He reran Arrynn’s words. Burned his gut that she was right. He’d been off his game today. Distracted. He should have taken the damn shift off. Not put his partners’ safety in jeopardy because he had something to prove. Because he couldn’t admit that he hadn’t wanted to be alone in the damn house all day. That he was scared the voice he’d been hearing was real.

Isabel’s voice.

He pushed aside the thought. It was fatigue. Guilt. The fact he hadn’t experienced anything other than random visions, words, was proof that it was all in his head. If she really was still around, surely she’d have made her presence known by now. Broken dishes. Objects out of place. Flickering lights and cold shivers…

 You’ll never be free…

He snapped open his eyes, twisting his head toward the echoed sound. Nothing. He pushed to his feet, taking a few steps in that direction when the floor creaked behind him. He spun, blood running cold as he stared at a faded image of Isabel standing beside the window—her head turned away as she stared out the glass pane, her white dress eerily bright.

He shook his head, standing his ground. “You’re not real.”

He gaze swung to him, her eyes filled with sorrow. “Aren’t I?”

“I did everything right. You’re just my imagination.”

She laughed, but it wasn’t maniacal like it’d been before. “Then, you’ve got nothing to be afraid of.”

“What do you want?”

“You know what I want, Daniel.”

“I’m not going with you, Isabel. Figment or not…I know how to protect myself. How to fight back. You won’t find the weak man you left before.”

Her head tilted to the side. “I never thought you were weak. Quite the opposite. You were always too strong. Too dedicated. Out to save the world. Save everyone, except me.”

He raked a hand through his hair, scratching at his scalp. “If I’d known… Fuck!” He grabbed the beer bottle and tossed it across the room, hitting the glass. Liquid splattered against the panes before the bottle crashed to the floor, breaking into a kaleidoscope of tiny shards.

Isabel flickered, winking out only to return. “When are you going to realize you can’t ever get rid of me? That I’ll always be a part of you. It doesn’t matter how much salt you use, what you burn—I’ll still be here. Waiting. I’ll always be waiting.”

He scrubbed a hand down his face. “No. This ends.”

She frowned. “What’s wrong, Daniel? Don’t you want me anymore?”

“You’re dead. I can’t…” He huffed out a breath. “What I want is for you to find peace, Isabel. To cross over. To leave me the fuck alone to try and find some shred of happiness in this life. I need you to let go this time.”

Her image flared then dimmed. “I’m living in Hell, Daniel. You should have to live in one, too.”

She vanished, nothing but drops of beer shimmering on the glass.

“Fuck!”

He sucked in a few quick gasps, reaching for his phone. He unlocked the screen and hit the contact number before he had a chance to second guess himself. Arrynn picked up on the second ring.

“Daniel? Everything okay?”

He closed his eyes as he released his breath. “I…you want to have a drink? I could really use a drink.”

A pause before her exhale sounded on the other line. “I’ll pick you up in ten. Wait outside for me. And Daniel…I’m glad you called.”

“Ten minutes.”

He hung up, heading for the door. He didn’t pause when Isabel appeared in front of him, continuing through her. A shiver of cold beaded his skin but he ignored it. It wasn’t real. None of it was real. He just needed to rest. He wasn’t crazy.

 

And that’s it for me. Now, I believe most of the other ladies are on deadlines, but Bronwyn has come up with a fabulous story. Check it out.

Bronwyn Green

Hey all. It’s hump day and time for another blog. Trying to keep at it. Where does the time go? I’m always surprised when bam, it’s Tuesday again and I haven’t written the blog. And how is it already nearly the middle of August? I has the sad over that. I don’t want this summer to end. Endless sunshine, no school, fun times had by all….

Anyway, this week is our own version of the ever famous… you might be a redneck… Only we’re picking out own topics. And hell, I might as well go with something I’m familiar with…

You might be a Canadian if…

— You have a hockey stick in your car and use it for anything but hockey.

— You love eating beaver tails in the winter.

— You say it’s FRESH when it’s -20 degrees out, because that’s not cold yet.

— You think it’s warm when it’s 25 degrees.

— The cashier at Tim Horton’s knows your order before you do.

— You are constantly searching for Tim Hortons when you go abroad and wondering how they survive without it.

— You know they’re called Timbits, not doughnut holes.

— That the correct spelling of colour is with a U.

— You say sorry if someone bumps into you. Then apologize for saying it.

— You pronounce it SOREry, not sarry… And it’s PROgress, not pragress.

— You can name at least 10 Canadian bands just to prove we have some.

— You know the population of Canada because non-Canadians will ask and still be amazed we have less people in our entire country than just California.

— You answer seriously when someone asks you… hey, do you know Gordon? He’s from Canada, too.

— You’ve set something on fire in an attempt to curve a hockey stick.

— You feel SOREry when the Comedian isn’t funny.

— You know how much ‘gitch’ to pack before you’re ‘hooped’.

— You drive on a parkway and a highway, but not a freeway.

— You don’t drink beer under 6%. But then it’s not really beer, is it?

— You can spot a Canadian TV show from the first five seconds.

— You think plain ‘green’ money looks weird.

— The only thing better than maple and bacon is maple bacon.

— You can hum the Hockey Night in Canada anthem.

— You actually do say, eh. (I know Jarman, the UP says it too, but we invented it, damn it)

— Towns name streets after hockey players instead of actors.

— You call them hydro lines. And logging roads.

— The phrase Homo milk isn’t offensive.

— You have a large collection of Canadian Tire cash sitting in your junk drawer.

— You’re not allowed to have a loaded gun anywhere in your house or car. Ever.

— You’ve never taken any SATs…and know that College and University aren’t even remotely the same.

If that isn’t enough… watch this video. I freaking love it. Then check out the other ladies… eh.

 

Bronwyn Green  |  Kellie St. James  |  Gwendolyn Cease

I’m baaaaccccckkkkkk.

Yes, and I said that with that creepy kid voice from Poltergeist, only changed that one word. First off, it’s good to be back. I honestly didn’t think I was going to get another spare moment for…well…ever. That’s how it feels when you’re under a deadline and you’ve left things. Okay, I didn’t really leave them. I had blocks, other commitments. You name it. But it all boiled down to having to focus on one thing and one thing only.

The good part. I finished the book and I’m stoked for when it releases. It’s my first MM book and my first angel book. From Grace: Gabriel will be releasing this October. More details to follow as I get them. I’ve also decided to make it a series, so there’ll be at least two more books to come.

Okay…on to the flash fiction. I was going to do a bit from the next angel book, but…I realized it could have some spoilers in it, so…. alas, it’s going in a completely different direction. Here’s the beautiful photo…and a peek into the minds of my next characters, for a Halloween story I’m writing. Not sure this will be part of the book, but…it’s an insight into my leading man. It’s connected to the bit from last month. If you want to read that the go here… July Picture Flash Fiction. It’s not necessary but  feel free. Otherwise…

“You know you only have to burn the bones, right? Not send the ashes into space.”

Daniel clenched his jaw as Arrynn shuffled in behind him, her arm lightly brushing against his. He didn’t turn, didn’t make eye contact. He couldn’t. Not without wanting to fucking scream. Grab her arms, give her a hard shake and demand answers he knew weren’t hers to give. Make sense out of a reality that was so far beyond sensible, it wasn’t even dust in his rearview.

He watched the flames lick at the bleached bones, the tiny sparks lifting into the air like hundreds of fireflies taking flight. “No harm in being sure.”

She snorted. “Guess that’s one way of looking at it.”

He cursed under his breath, ignoring the warning bells still ringing in his head as he twisted to meet her gaze. “You got something you want to say?”

Arrynn shrugged, kicking at the sand with her boot. “I think you already know.”

“Being thorough doesn’t make me crazy.” He laughed. “What am I saying… We hunt fucking ghosts for a living. We’re already crazy.”

“We do what’s needed so others don’t have to know the truth.”

He turned to face her, his hands fisted at his sides. “And what truth is that? That ghosts are real? Or that they’ll fucking kill you if given the chance?”

Arrynn sighed. “Not all spirits become vengeful.”

“No. But it only takes one to change your life.” He spun, staring at the mix of orange and yellow as it rippled along the pile.

A hand cupped his shoulder, the easy weight nearly taking him to his knees. She moved in closer, her breath tickling the hairs on his nape. “You know it wasn’t her fault, right? Dying the way she did…”

He pulled away from her touch. He didn’t want her pity. Her understanding. Fuck, he didn’t want anything other than to bury every last memory. Find a way to get through the day without the overwhelming sense of guilt smothering him.

He shook his head. “I know it wasn’t her fault. It was mine.”

“Daniel…”

“This would all be a lot easier if everyone just stopped coddling me!” He glanced at her over his shoulder. “We both know it’s true. I let her go off alone. Left her vulnerable. I was supposed to protect her.”

Arrynn scoffed. “Oh, so now you’re the one who murdered her? Only one man is to blame, and his ass is doing twenty-five to life, without the chance of parole.” She closed half the distance. “All I’m trying to say is…at some point, you’re going to have to forgive yourself. Move on. This…” She waved at the equipment spread out on the sand. The fire reaching toward the sky. “This is just a bandaid. A temporary fix. Until you deal with Isabel’s death—”

“I’ve dealt with it.”

“Oh, baby. You’ve done everything but deal with it. You hunt. You kill. You send a steady stream of spirits back across that veil, but you haven’t come close to dealing with her death. I see it, Daniel. We all see it.”

She glanced at the fire, then headed for the path, stopping behind him. “You know how I feel about you. But regardless of that, watching you fight her ghost at every turn…even when it’s not there… It’s not just killing you. I’m not saying you need to forget, just…let it go. Let her go.”

He caught her arm as she moved past him. “It’s not her I can’t let go of. I know she’s dead. I know that whatever we had… I’m not stuck in the past, Arrynn.”

“Then what?”

He let his head bow to his chest. “It’s knowing I couldn’t save her soul. That I let it continue until there was nothing left but anger. Blame. Resentment. That my legacy to her was letting her turn into the very monsters we hunt.”

“You weren’t a hunter, then. Hell, you thought you were imagining it.”

“And now you know why it haunts me.”

He released her, shoving his hands in his pockets before he wrapped them around her and didn’t let go. Until he’d sealed his mouth to hers to stop the screams. Stripped her down and buried himself inside her until there was nothing left but them. This moment.

Arrynn sighed, the sound a mixture of sadness and resolution. “I’ll be in the car with Jimmy. Make sure the fire’s out.”

Her feet padded across the sand, the soft scuffle slowly fading. Daniel stared out at the rising sun. He knew Arrynn was right. He needed to move on. Stop dwelling on facts he couldn’t change. Find a way to make peace with the ghosts he’d never be able to banish.

I’m waiting for you Daniel. I’ll always be waiting.

Her voice echoed around him, the soft caress of her fingers along his neck making him jump. He turned, searching the beach, breath held, muscles clenched, only to stare into the unrelenting darkness.

Daniel hissed out his breath, picking up his bags before kicking sand over the flames. It must be the fatigue. His mind playing tricks on him. He’d seen to it Isabel couldn’t hurt him again. Couldn’t hurt anyone. He’d won…hadn’t he?

 

And that’s all for me. Please check out the other two ladies. I’m sure they’ll have amazing stories.

Bronwyn Green  |  Kellie St. James

I can’t be the only one who knows that song. LOL. And you all know how I hate just having regular titles, so… this week on random Wednesday, the topic is… what made me smile this week. And wouldn’t you know… I actually have a few things that fit. Out of the ordinary things, so yeah…good timing, lol.

Not that I don’t normally smile. I do. The kids make me laugh and smile all the time. I’m a genuinely happy person…I think, lol. But I’ll highlight the unique ones.

Syd performed at a variety show celebrating the town’s 100 year birthday. Along with Brynn, they did the duet they’d created for their aerial arts class back in March. And they were stunning. It actually brought me to tears. I should be getting an actual video of it, but I took a couple of pics (against the rules, lol) They’re pretty crappy, but…I’m so proud of her and Brynn. Talk about smile worthy…

 

Had exceptionally great running day. I mean, it was like flying. Almost surreal. Here’s one of me and Bandit at the end. And one of a part of the trail. It’s so beautiful Can’t believe I get to live in this part of the world.

 

 

I got to watch and film my oldest doing a backflip off the bridge downtown. Now, he did try a double—it didn’t quite go as planned—but the camera screwed up on me. Or I did, lol. So I only have this one. But trust me. I’ve jumped off here once, and it’s a hell of a long way down. Kudos for the kids that have no fear.

 

 

I also got to go on the BEST DATE EVER! Went hiking up Brunswick Mountain with an amazing guy. Not only was the company fantastic, but the views from the top were stunning. And did I mention the company was awesome! The hike was 15Km round trip (so not that long) but up nearly 6000 feet. So… well worth the climb. Here’s a few of the pics I took…

 

So there you have it. A few special features that made me smile more than usual. Lucky me it was this week, lol. Now check out the other ladies and see what made them smile.

Jessica Jarman  |  Bronwyn Green  |  Jessica De La Rosa  |  Kellie St. James