Late as usual, but better late than never, right? Here is a snip from Ellie and Quill’s story.

After they ate, Quill spoke to the men in a low voice. A few glances were directed her way, accompanied by nods and smiles. In only a few minutes most of the men melted into the darkness, taking Tommy and Connor with them. Only Snake and Stone stayed to watch over Sara and Mel while they cleaned the dishes. Ellie moved to join them, but Quill stepped in front of her.

“Let’s walk for a few minutes before bed.”

Ellie swallowed and nodded. They were alone. It didn’t frighten her, exactly. She draped the blanket over her shoulders like a wrap against the chilly air of the evening and walked beside him out of their small camp. “Where did everyone go?”

He put an arm around her waist. “They’re not far. I asked them to give us a little time alone.”

Alone. In the dark. With Quill. Ellie tried to slow her breathing. “Why?”

He pulled her to a stop and lifted her hands to his mouth to kiss each palm.”You know why. You brought a blanket.”

Eddie’s Prize comes out in a little over a month. At last! I am hoping to be able to show off the cover art soon. I saw the first draft of it and I think it is beautiful.

Here is a snip from Eddie’s Prize. Christmas Eve 2064:

Eddie washed dishes as she tidied up the kitchen. Through the kitchen window Lisa could see snow falling through the dark night. It was a scene out of an old fashioned Christmas card.

“It’s pretty,” she said. At Eddie’s raised brow she elaborated. “The snow. We didn’t get snow in California. It makes it seem a little more like Christmas.”

He hung up the dish towel to dry. “It’s Christmas Eve. Our first Christmas together.” His kiss was gentle. “I know you were a little disappointed to not be able to go see your friend, but I wanted you to myself this time.”

Lisa’s hands framed his face. “Carla is a good friend, but Christmas is for families. You’re my family.”

“Come to bed,” he breathed.

She giggled when he swept her up and carried her to their bed. “I should brush my teeth before bed,” she mock protested.

“Tomorrow.” He peeled her clothes off her with careful haste.

She kicked her feet to rid her legs of the jeans still clinging. “I should wash my face,” she teased.

He made short work of his own clothing. “Tomorrow,” he repeated.