Category Archives: Flash Fiction

Not Another Lonely Valentine’s Day

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Writing

               One

Maria looked out across the dance floor. Couple swayed as the bluesy ballad continued. Another Valentine’s Day with no date. No male friends offering to accompany her to the Sadie Hawkins Dance or to even dance with her after they’d danced with their wives or girlfriends. Even her best friend Susan hadn’t attended. They usually danced the fast dances together where no one could tell who really partnered with who. Yes another lonely-hearts day for her.

She knew the potential outcome. Signing up to work the dinner rush and then during the dance hours kept her busy. Why tonight was hitting her harder than usual, she couldn’t say. Maria knew the number of Washburn Falls eligible males dwindled with each Sadie Hawkins dance. A couple might find their third or even another couple to form a quad with. She didn’t envy them. She compersively enjoyed seeing others enjoying their joy. Loving more than one was fine by her. Some chose to be monogamous. Most of Washburn Falls’ citizens embraced what pairbondings worked for those that chose them. At the last local LBGTQ chapter meeting, Chad Penndel, Washburn Falls mayor elect, announced same sex pairings were legal in the town’s eyes. She had applauded along with the others in attendance.

Maria picked up the tray full of dishes she’d cleared and made her way back toward the bar and kitchen entrance. The house lights came up and the dance floor emptied. She blinked, standing still until her vision got clearer. That’s when she saw them coming toward her, Chad Penndel and Nick Black. Washburn Falls’ two most sought after bachelors.

Chad reached Maria first. He waited until Nick moved up beside him before he spoke. “Maria, come on and sit down with Nick and I. We want to talk with you.”

“I-I got work to do. Tables to bus.” Maria held up the tray of dishes she carried. “Couples are going to want more drinks. Maybe more food. If I’m not taking orders, I miss out on tips.”

Nick took a hold of the tray. “The other servers can take care of them. What Chad and I want to talk with you about is important. “

“Right,” Chad began, pointing to an empty booth. “You haven’t taken a break yet. Come on. A short break isn’t going to hurt. Besides Chef put some soup aside for you. You need to eat.”

Chad moved forward until he stood by the booth. He watched as Maria glanced from him to Nick and back. She worried her bottom lip between her teeth. He could see each breath she took as her chest rose and fell. Her short breaths, fleeting glances and worrying her lip spoke louder than if she’d voiced her concern. He knew that look. He’d been there himself. Two years earlier when he returned to Washburn Falls, ready to take the first job offered him. Ready to hole up in a small studio apartment and keep to himself. Nick hadn’t let that happen. He’d challenged him to take small steps and TLC himself until he gained the confidence he needed to take on the head bartender job. Nick had taught him concern, care, and yes love. He loved Nick a lot. Some thought they were a couple. Neither of them bothered to correct people’s assumptions. The LGBTQ citizens knew differently. They trusted him to take care of them and embrace the diversity Washburn Falls offered all its citizens. Now if the rest of the damn world would learn how to do that maybe they all could worry less when they ventured outside the valley and mountains that surrounded Washburn Falls.

“We just want to talk with you. Nothing bad,” Nick offered, tugging at the tray Maria held on to tightly.  “Please, let go. I’ll take it into the kitchen and bring back your soup.”

“Seriously?” Maria asked, letting go of the tray.

“Yes,” Nick replied, adding as he turned, “Be right back with the soup.”

“Bring some bread and cheese too. She needs a meal not just a quick snack.” Chad sat down on the seat closest to him.

“A break is one thing. A meal period gets deducted from my work hours.” Maria started after Nick.

Chad stood up, quickly following Maria until he caught up with her. He laid his hand on Maria’s shoulder as he caught up with her. “No deductions. Just sit down with me. I can explain while Nick gets the soup, bread, and cheese.”

He felt Maria’s shoulders rise and fall as she took several quick breaths. She glanced back at the kitchen door Nick had gone through. She sighed and faced him. “Okay, I guess. This better be good Chad.”

Chad pressed his lips together to keep from smiling. What he and Nick had discussed was good. Good for them. Good for Maria. It was presentation that was going to communicate just how good it was going to be for all three of them. Would she believe them?

Life Is For Living and Celebrating

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Uncategorized

1024AutumnFairy2

 

Mick looked out across the pavilion floor. Twenty to thirty sixteen year old shape shifters filled the dance floor.  Tyburn stood at one side nodding his head as Rachel talked with him.  On the opposite side, the two new security guards stood, their gazes patrolling one end of the dance floor to the other.

The two guards hadn’t said much since they rolled into town three weeks prior. Rampant rumors said they were mixed breed runts that looked worse than their bark or bite.  Mick shook his head. One was a frilled lizard shifter relocated from Australia after his tour in Iraqi. The other was a porcupine.  His accuracy with knives and guns even had several on the police force giving him wide berth.  So new breeds came to town. Would they settle down as others had? Find what they were looking for and know they’d come home?

“Makes you think twice about having kids,” Vernon said, strolling up.

Mick chuckled. “I don’t think you’ve got much choice. Yours are here and grown.”

“Good point,” Vernon conceded.  “I don’t remember giving my parents as much crap as today’s kids do.”

“Vernon McMahon stopping lying,” Miss Ellie chastised, coming up behind her husband.  “You’ve told me your sainted mother pulled your wolfish ass out of more fights than your father did.”

“Fights with my litter mates.  Raising twelve rambunctious cubs isn’t easy, “Vernon offered.

“No wonder your father took that traveling salesman position.” Miss Ellie linked her arm with Vernon’s.

“Wasn’t that your late husband my dear?” Vernon lifted Miss Ellie’s hand to his lips and licked her knuckles.

Mick turned ready to make his escape when Miss Ellie spoke. “I see Mooney, Nick, and Zivia.  Let’s go see our grandchildren.”

“Yes, dear,” Vernon replied guiding Miss Ellie through the crowd toward the other end of the pavilion.

“I wonder if we’ll be as tame when we’re there age,” Trina asked moving up beside Mick.

“Tame?” Mick questioned.  “You haven’t seen those two when they’re pranking.”

“Pranking?” Trina entwined her fingers with his.  The rough edges of the two-carat diamond ring she wore roughed his fingers.

Mick raised their hands to his lips.  He kissed the back of Trina’s hand and winked. “Oh yeah. Ask Gill about snow ball fights with Vernon and Miss Ellie vs. Thor and Loki.”

Trina snickered. “Another time. You promised to show me some stars once the music got going.”

As if on cue, music began playing and many of the teens started dancing. Mick slipped his arm around Trina’s waist and leaned closer. “Stars and much more once we get home tonight, my love.”

sometimes

A New Breed Of Cop Comes to Town

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Uncategorized

squirrel_on_motorcycle

Gill rushed to his office window. The loud roar increased as he pulled back the curtain. Outside the sun blazed down on the parking lot closest to his office. He looked left and right unable to ascertain where the noise came from. He turned ready to yell for Rachel when the loud squeal of sirens started.

 

He rushed back to the window. He looked down to the corner of the asphalt he could clearly see. He squinted as sun glare flashed off the chrome of not one, not two.  He blinked and counted again. Four motorcycles all bearing police decals and the city’s emblem. What the hell had happened while he and Chloe were on vacation? Had Vernon gone off the deep end during his time as deputy mayor?

 

A loud knock sounded.  Gill inhaled, exhaled, and started for the door. Another knock sounded. “Ok, I’m coming,” he called out.  Picking up his pace, he quickly crossed the room lest the knock start again. He reached for the door as another knock rattled the heavy oak door. Gods and Goddesses above! What was on the other side of the door?

 

He took a hold of the knob and turned it.  He uttered a quick prayer and flung the door open.

 

Rachel stood between two of the burliest biker dudes he’d encountered.  He looked at Rachel. She shrugged and stepped toward him. “Boss man, looks like we got a couple new citizens that want to speak with you.”

 

Rachel moved into the office and away from him and the bikers. She turned and pointed to the one wearing a red emblem on his helmet.  “Zeke from Red Bluff, Arizona.”

 

Zeke nodded and removed his helmet.  His army crew cut hinted at who might have sent him.

 

Rachel pointed to the other biker wearing a blue wave emblem on his helmet.  “Deke from Pacifica, Oregon.”

 

Deke removed his helmet, nodded and stepped up beside Zeke.

 

Gill kept glancing back and forth between the two trying to figure out who they reminded him of.  He jumped as Rachel touched his shoulder. He glared at her.  Rachel snickered.  “Boss man, hear them out. Tyburn said phoenix connections are important.”  With that, Rachel walked out of the office closing the door behind her.

 

Gill held out his hand, hoping Zeke or Deke took it. They understood shaking hands, didn’t they?  Who’d sent them?

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Happy Weekend Gang!

 

Tyburn can be obnoxious and heavy handed.  Has he over done it with sending new troops in to guard the Peak?  His baby daughter is turning 16 within a few weeks.  Rachel doesn’t seem phased by it.  Or is she?  Has the angsty teen years hit the Peak? Gill and Chloe’s triplets along with Rachel and Tyburn’s twins.  Look out here comes trouble?

 

I think this serial is going to be fun writing as the birthdays approach.

 

Until Next Time,

Solara

 

 

 

Mick and Trina’s Story Chapter 2 Part 2

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Uncategorized

Changes. . .from light to dark.....and somewhere in between

“Ask me something?” Trina wrapped her arms tighter around her. What could Mick want now?  Her mind went off in different directions.  Her heart skipped a beat as he moved closer.

“Yes,” he said, stopping a foot away. “Better to ask than assume, don’t you think?”

Mick’s smile reached inside her into a place she hadn’t planned.  A place where warmth sparkled more than she dared hope for.  Hope sprang up, bubbling forth.  Most males didn’t ask they assumed, demanded, and took.  Those who tried mimicking their alpha role models sucked at it.  Horribly sucked at any sense of decorum and what leadership was about.  Trina inhaled slowly, and let go a deep sigh.  She couldn’t let fear rule all of her judgments and decisions, could she?

“Okay,” Trina replied, unfolding her arms.  She shook her hands and laid them in her lap.

“You sure?” Mick reached for her hand closest to him.

Trina looked down, back up at Mick.  She lifted her hand and held out to him, palm up.  “Yes, I am.”

Mick took a hold of Trina’s hand and stood.  He stepped down on to the bleacher seat below him.  He turned so he faced her and kneeled.  He waited until her gaze met his, the he spoke. “Will you run beneath the full moon with me?  Dance under the starts with me? Allow me to show you a different side of life?”

Trina pulled back, her eyes going wide.  He didn’t let go of her hand.  He held on firm.  He leaned forward, nodding.  “A life that allows joy, happiness, and understanding of who you are.”

Trina licked her lips.  He wanted to lean closer still. Close enough to press his lips to hers.  Hold her to him and calm the fears he smelled and sensed.  Would she accept the gift he offered?

 

Mick and Trina’s Story Chapter Two Part 1

Posted on by under Flash Fiction

sometimes

Trina smiled as she walked back toward the bleachers.  Two weeks had come and gone since the dance and Mick asking her out twice.  Both times, he’d picked her up at Phil’s and brought her back well before midnight.  Tonight, he sat on the bleachers looking up at the night sky.  They’d walked to the middle of the football field after the game and the crowd dispersed.  Mick had looked at her, held a finger to his lips and pointed upward.  The clouds parted and the nightlight show began as if it waited for Mick’s signal.

Shooting stars crisscrossed the heavens, sending arcs of bright light in various directions almost like the fireworks for the upcoming Fourth of July celebration Gill and Vernon talked with Louie about. Many of the stars twinkled like the lights on the carnival rides she remembered from her youth, the few fun moments of her childhood.  Learning how carnies talked and tried to hoodwink people out of their money hadn’t set well with her.  The summer spent with her Aunt and Uncle on the road hadn’t agree with her and still didn’t. That set of bad memories faded with each passing year unless someone from her past showed up.  Now a new set of memories was quickly filling that slot and expanding.

Trina stopped as she reached the first step leading up to the second level where Mick sat.  He looked up and then back at her. He smiled each time he glanced at her; a smile that poured forth and washed over her like a waves upon the shore.  He motioned her in a come-hither wave as he stood.

“The view up here is fabulous.  It’s hard to believe that we’re the only life in the universe.” He pointed to a star almost over their heads.  “I wonder if there’s a couple gazing at the stars and wondering if life exists out there.”

Mick held out his hand.  Trina took it.  He curled his fingers around hers savoring the warmth and closeness. He hadn’t thought beyond enjoying the here and now with her.  Tending to the pieces of joy and positivity he felt.  It’d been a while—a long time since he wanted to spend time with much of anyone of the opposite sex. Buddies didn’t require the care and upkeep that friends and lovers did. After his last heartbreak, he’d sworn off anything more than close acquaintances.  Now, here he was pondering if he dared let someone closer.  And a female too.

He glanced at Trina.  She smiled as she moved closer.  “I’d missed this if I’d gone home like I planned and curled up with the rest of the book I’m reading.”

“Astronomy is a hobby that takes patient and curiosity. Not many I associate with have much of both.” Mick chuckled, squeezing Trina’s hand.  “My mother said I got my father’s wander lust.  I’ve enjoyed my travels and seeing new places.  Even a few revisits.”

“I moved around so much, I dreaded the next move.  Roots are important to me.”  Trina let go of his hand and sat down on the bleachers close to him.

Mick sat down a bit away from Trina, and turned toward her.  “I’d like to ask you something.”

Trina smiled as she walked back toward the bleachers.  Two weeks had come and gone since the dance and Mick asking her out twice.  Both times, he’d picked her up at Phil’s and brought her back well before midnight.  Tonight, he sat on the bleachers looking up at the night sky.  They’d walked to the middle of the football field after the game and the crowd dispersed.  Mick had looked at her, held a finger to his lips and pointed upward.  The clouds parted and the nightlight show began as if it waited for Mick’s signal.

Shooting stars crisscrossed the heavens, sending arcs of bright light in various directions almost like the fireworks for the upcoming Fourth of July celebration Gill and Vernon talked with Louie about. Many of the stars twinkled like the lights on the carnival rides she remembered from her youth, the few fun moments of her childhood.  Learning how carnies talked and tried to hoodwink people out of their money hadn’t set well with her.  The summer spent with her Aunt and Uncle on the road hadn’t agree with her and still didn’t. That set of bad memories faded with each passing year unless someone from her past showed up.  Now a new set of memories was quickly filling that slot and expanding.

Trina stopped as she reached the first step leading up to the second level where Mick sat.  He looked up and then back at her. He smiled each time he glanced at her; a smile that poured forth and washed over her like a waves upon the shore.  He motioned her in a come-hither wave as he stood.

“The view up here is fabulous.  It’s hard to believe that we’re the only life in the universe.” He pointed to a star almost over their heads.  “I wonder if there’s a couple gazing at the stars and wondering if life exists out there.”

Mick held out his hand.  Trina took it.  He curled his fingers around hers savoring the warmth and closeness. He hadn’t thought beyond enjoying the here and now with her.  Tending to the pieces of joy and positivity he felt.  It’d been a while—a long time since he wanted to spend time with much of anyone of the opposite sex. Buddies didn’t require the care and upkeep that friends and lovers did. After his last heartbreak, he’d sworn off anything more than close acquaintances.  Now, here he was pondering if he dared let someone closer.  And a female too.

He glanced at Trina.  She smiled as she moved closer.  “I’d missed this if I’d gone home like I planned and curled up with the rest of the book I’m reading.”

“Astronomy is a hobby that takes patient and curiosity. Not many I associate with have much of both.” Mick chuckled, squeezing Trina’s hand.  “My mother said I got my father’s wander lust.  I’ve enjoyed my travels and seeing new places.  Even a few revisits.”

“I moved around so much, I dreaded the next move.  Roots are important to me.”  Trina let go of his hand and sat down on the bleachers close to him.

Mick sat down a bit away from Trina, and turned toward her.  “I’d like to ask you something.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Happy Weekend Gang!

Have you had a positive week? One filled with joy and loving life.  The small choices we make daily add up to influence and affect our effect on the world at large and ourselves. Be compersive-joyful for someone else’s joy.  Help the world be a better place and at peace with all who inhabit our world.

Smiles,

Solara

Taking Time to Remember Our Fallen

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Uncategorized

Fireworks Show

Fireworks Show

Gill stepped up to the microphone, looked down at his speech, and swallowed.  Many of the Peak’s citizens turned out for the festivities in the park.  Grills with lit charcoal briquettes in them stood close to many of the picnic tables.  Portable ones sat next to the tables and chairs others brought with them.  Earlier games pitted adults against children and those in similar age brackets too.  A lot of fun and happiness filled the air.  Now silence and staring filled it instead.

“My fellow citizens,” he began. “Many gave their lives to keep us safe.  I’m not talking shape shifter or supernatural only.  Many humans fought on foreign shores to keep others safe too.  We continue to do so as a country.  Here at home, many take on the task of keeping us safe within our fine country.”

A few murmurs sounded.  Several heads nodded.  A youngster stood up with a miniature flag waving it back and forth.  A few others did the same.

“Some of our fellow Peakites gave their lives so we might enjoy the freedom and safety we have today. To honor them we started collecting funds to build a memorial.  Names are coming in.  Someone contacted the state about this.”

Heads began shaking.  Others yelled out. “No! Not the state here again!”

Gill tapped the microphone.  The crowd quieted.  “I hear what you’re saying.  Our representative, a former Peakite, contacted us too.  They’re forming a delegation to oversee the funds we’re getting from the state.  A few other supernatural towns and cities are getting money too. Disaster avoided!”

Smiles and nods appeared again.

“So in closing before others who served whether in the military or supporting areas speak, I want to say I’m a proud Peakite!  Can you say it with me?”

Gill stepped away from the microphone, raised his arm, and yelled. “I’m a proud Peakite!”

Many in the crowd stood, yelling and chanting with him.  Some smile and clapped.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

May your Memorial Day be filled with love, fun, safety, and memories.  Take a moment to thank those that keep us safe and devote their lives to this!

Solara

 

MICK AND TRINA’S DANCE CONTINUES

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Uncategorized

sexywater-1

 

 

Mick slid his hand along Trina’s waist. Her hand rested lightly on his shoulder. He moved closer to her until they were approximately three feet apart. She smiled, shaking her head.

 

“What’s funny?” Mick asked, looking down. He placed his foot between Trina’s. His size ten and half shoe stuck out between her smaller ones.

“Us. This reminds me of the dancing lessons I took in junior high school. Most of the guys could shake their bootie and move around the dance floor like their pants were on fire.” Trina glanced down.

 

Mick snorted. “Seems that started the phase of trying to teach us etiquette and some form of courting.”

 

Trina’s laughter warmed his cheek. He winked and moved tighter to her. “Now shall we practice those steps and moves our parents spent money on?”

 

Trina arched her neck, looking up into Mick’s eyes. They reminded her of the blue sky over the lake during summer. The time of year, she could laugh and run free all over the campgrounds her parents owned. Summer camp allowed her and her siblings time to let their animal counterpart out. No harried admonishments either about hiding or keeping her furry side under tight control.

 

She licked her lips and nodded. “Sure. I can waltz; do a mean two-step, the occasional foxtrot, and a slow sultry dance that permits conversation. You have a preference?”

 

“Slow dance and conversation. Sultry is a little much for the kids.” Nick winked, stepping back wards as the music began.

 

“Yes, we chaperones need to keep an eye on the youngsters.” She chuckled moving in sync with Mick as he guided her out across the dance floor toward the middle of the gym.

 

“Ten questions each? A little getting acquainted info?” Mick swirled her in a circle creating more space between them.

“Okay. You pulling away?” Trina looked down and back up meeting Mick’s gaze.

 

“No, just allowing some room so we can talk easier. “ Mick grinned. “First question. Favorite color.”

 

“Mauve. Same for you.”

 

“Turquoise. Reminds me of the ocean.” Nick nodded. Vernon and Miss Ellie danced by them.

“Nice song choice, Mick.” Vernon twirled Miss Ellie, pulled her back into his arms and titled her back over one arm. “Allows a little swing and sway.”

 

Before Mick could answer, Vernon and Miss Ellie danced away. Mick glanced back at her. He stopped and started swaying back and forth in place. “Vernon’s right.”

 

Trina burst out laughing. “What about the other songs?”

 

“Fifties music and a few early sixties tunes. The rest are ones the kids requested. I don’t know if there’s much to dance to in their choices.” Mick started moving them around the dance floor again. “Why mauve?”

 

“The color of my grandma’s kitchen. She loved to cook and bake. That was the one place all ten grandkids could gather and all have grandma at once.” Trina shook her head as Mick opened his mouth again. “You’ve asked two questions. My turn.”

 

Mick nodded. “Go ahead.”

 

“Where’d you grow up?” Trina closed some of the space between them as another song started.

 

“All over. My dad joined the military right out of high school. He wanted to see how the other half lived. Human half.” Mick paused near the bleachers as the music picked up beat. “Continue dancing?”

 

“Please. Makes our conversation less conspicuous.” Trina glanced over her shoulder. “Second question. Why turquoise?”

 

“San Diego, California. The one place we stayed more than two years. Mom decided that moving wasn’t a good idea with changing schools constantly.”

 

“A place you call home?” Trina started nodding her head in time to the music. “Almost a latin rhythm to it.”

 

“Yes. Maybe we can two-step our way across the gym. And that was your third question.” Mick picked up pace and changed steps to match the beat of the music.

 

“So answer it. Then your turn.”

 

“It’s a place where I found me. My parents bought a house and Mom put down roots. All five of us graduated from high school and college there.” Mick leaned closer to her. “My third question is why Talbot’s Peak?’”

 

Trina swallowed hard. She’d kept so much of her past hidden. The pain and hurt dulled after a while. Could she talk about leaving home and knowing she couldn’t go back? The unofficial ‘get out’ her father ordered when he found out she wasn’t his daughter stung for a long time. Many didn’t take her mixed heritage well. Would Mick?

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

HAPPY WEEKEND GANG!

 

Sorry I missed last week.  Day job making departmental changes which took more concentration than anticipated.  Pris  (my muse) and I got home last Friday night overly tired.  Bed and sleep called.

 

Looks like Mick and Trina are slowly getting acquainted.   Why is Trina scared?  What does she fear?  Stay tuned.  Pris hasn’t said what’s next for our couple.  I’m looking forward to finding out.

Spring arrives and with a dreaded four letter word.  SNOW!  One last huzzah I guess from winter as the passing of the seasonal crown moves on to the next.  Keep a few good books handy to read and share with your loves and spice.  I’m looking forward to sharing a few with mine.

Until next time,

Solara

MICK & TRINA’S STORY CONTINUES: May I have this Dance, Please?

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Uncategorized

polyamourous cupids

 

Mick walked across the floor, keeping Trina in his sight. She ducked her head, looking away. He’d watched her peruse all the males present. The teens that danced past her, she smiled at and shook her head no. The older ones made conversation and moved off to find their mates or spouses. The few women who stopped to talk, pointed to males at various points throughout the gymnasium. He reached Trina as the opening strains of the melody began.

“May I have this dance, please?” he asked, holding out his hand. He kept his gaze on her face. The costumes hid much of their physique. Not that it mattered. Many here used scent and their other senses along with their animal sixth sense to pick out their chase. There were no victims here. Matting happened when all parties agreed. Dancing didn’t resemble the sweaty pleasure enhance bed rumpling stints most of the youth here tried to do. No, dancing was for conversation, getting to know each other, and asking for another dance. Even time to nibble finger foods and sip the sickening sweet punch the cafeteria provided. He’d heard whispers Louie from Rattigan’s was due at midnight; something about road kill stew and other more delightful cuisine.

Mick smiled. Trina turned toward him. Her hands lay one on top of the other, resting on her fanny pouch. Most of the women carried purses or clutch bags. Not this one. Dare he ask what she carried in it? Too personal a question too soon? He wet his lips ready to change topics when Trina spoke.

“Thank you. I’d love to dance.” Trina stepped closer to him. “Been a while since I slow danced.”

Mick chuckled. “Easy to remember. Like riding a bike. Of course, unless you like to lead.”

“Oh, I’m not supposed to?” Trina grinned, raising her arms. “Maybe you better show me how this is done. You know I might need a bit of private tutorial here rather than out there.” She point to the open dance floor.

He glanced over his shoulder. “Okay, one tutorial coming up. Then we make our way across the gym and back. This is the slow long songs portion of the evening.”

Trina nodded her understanding and moved closer until he could easily see her in the darker portion where they stood. He took a hold of her wrist, instructing her as he did. “You hand goes on my shoulder. A light touch is fine.”

He reached for her other hand; Trina held it out to him. “This one goes with this one?” She touched his palm with two of her fingers. Heat burst off her deep into him and jaggedly made its way up his arm. Mick swallowed hard and nodded. Did she realize what affect she had on him?

Trina pressed her lips together. Letting out a startled gasp might send him moving away. Heat like this hadn’t happened since her late husband. The one man—human not shapeshifter—who understood her and ignited a sexual chemistry that kept its volcanic explosions going until illness claimed him. Too bad, he turned out sterile. A child or two by him to remind her of the passion and love they shared would’ve eased the pain and sorrow. She blinked pushing the five year old past memories back to where they belonged, deep in the memories of another time in her life. She’d come here to start over and it appeared she’d chosen a good place to do so. Continue reading →

A NEW TALBOT’S PEAK ROMANCE

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Uncategorized

celtic

 

 

Trina looked over the group of men standing close to her. Two male wolves, three coyotes, and one snow leopard made up the group. None of them particularly drew her attraction or thoughts. Yet, dancing with one or two of them might get conversation flowing. After all, chaperoning a high school dance didn’t require more than keeping the kids out of dark corners. Making small talk with the other parents present and enjoying the music. Miss Elly and Vernon were out on the dance floor cutting their path across the gym. More fifties music blared out of the speakers. Even Gill and Chloe tried their hand at some of the intricate dance steps the music teacher had shown everyone before the music started.

 

She wiped her hands down her heavily starched poodle skirt. Missy Elly’s kindness included loaning her clothes in theme with the music. Her teased and sprayed hair bounced each time she nodded her head in time with the music. A few feet away one of the teachers named Mick stood wearing a black leather biker’s jacket, tight ass-incasing jeans, and a dark red t-shirt with the outline of wolf on it. His slicked back hair refused to adhere to the gel. Two lone curls close to the top of his forehead gave him an air of mystique. An edge that caused her breath to catch and set off warmth the reached deep into her. Sex for the sake of physical release stymied her. Her chemistry required more. An attraction and mutual interest revved her hormones. If she wanted to get off—she snickered at her use of male thoughts and terms—her battery-operated boyfriend worked fine thank you. No need for making small talk and acting nice when all she wanted and needed was a hard fast orgasm. One that rocked her to sleep or into a blissed out state that lasted more than someone poking her saying ‘my turn now.’

 

Mick looked up from the table, counted the number of couples on the dance floor, and smiled. At least four of his students were out there trying the steps he showed them earlier. Many were standing in segregated groups of boys and girls. Their parents were doing much the same. When had kids lost the art of mingling and mixing with the opposite sex? This was Talbot’s Peak. Sex and what it entailed wasn’t shunned or stuffed in the closet. No, every kid new the basics by age eight. After all short gestations could manifest themselves quite easily. Ah, making sure his students understood the birds and bees aspect of life wasn’t his teaching area. Music and art took more than a few hour-long sessions per week to understand and enjoy. Good thing Gill and the town council got the need for after school activities like these.

He glanced over his shoulder back to where the redhead stood. Her petiteness intrigued him. She also ignited a protectiveness he was sure she didn’t require. After all, she was part wolf and coyote, two animals that could take care of themselves. Still making her acquaintance and enjoying a few dances didn’t entail getting involved. Friendship added to life. Why not add a new friend to his group? A female one too. Mick tossed his empty cup in the trash receptacle near him and turned. The next song was a slow hold your partner close one. Easy to dance too and long enough to learn a few things about each other. Yes, a good choice. He started toward Trina.

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Oooh looks like a new romance is starting up in the Peak!!  Wonder where this will go.  Let’s see what my muse, Pris, comes up with as the weeks progress.  Maybe some of my blog mates will chime in with their takes on the fall out from Cupid’s visit to Talbot’s Peak last weekend.

Remember to keep a few books handy to share with your loves and spice.  I’m busy penning a few myself.  Keep warm as winter takes it last runs and spring attempts to take hold.

Smiles,

Solara

 

LOVE LIKE SNOW IS A FOUR LETTERED WORD

Posted on by under Flash Fiction, Uncategorized

snow

Gill glanced out the window.  White everywhere and more fell from the sky.  The outside thermometer show minus five degrees.  Inside behind him, a fire roared.  Phil and his crew toasted marshmallows prepping them for the smores Chloe and Miss Ellie asked for.  The children sat near Vernon who entertained them with shadow puppets and tale tails from his youth.   No matter the temperature outside inside the mayoral mansion, warmth, love, and acceptance abounded.

Chloe hadn’t blinked an eye when the weather turned worse as the adults played cards and the children watched television.  Somewhere into the first twenty hours of the storm, his wife turned into a hostess that gave and took without problem.  Gill smiled watching Miss Ellie set out the bowls filled chocolate and graham crackers.  A stack of dinner sized paper plates sat close by as well as a stack of napkins.  A pot of green tea and mugs occupied the table too.  Smaller mugs sat next to a pitcher filled with warm milk.  Bedtime snacks were about to commence.

Seregi’s loud singing filtered down the stairs as he showered.  He’d romped with the children making snow angels and tossing snow balls at each other for almost two hours.  The petite mixed breed shapeshifter traveling with Phil and family caught Seregi’s eye.  Her wolf and timber fox mix caused most to shun her according to her.  In the Peak, folks accepted people for who they were.  What their hearts and values said about them.  If they walked the talk about what they said, short of those who sought to hurt and took delight in it—not BDSMers–well they could find another place to call home.

“See the bright star in the sky?” Vernon asked, pulling back the curtain, motioning the children to him.

“Yes, Mr. Vernon,” one of Phil’s youngest said.

“Know always where that star is.  It will lead you home.”  Vernon dropped the curtain and faced the children.  “Many of us chose this spot to claim as home.  The one place where we love and help each other because we all matter.”

Miss Ellie walked over to Vernon, holding out a plate with two smores on it.  She leaned toward him, lips puckered.  Vernon ducked his head and came up with his lips puckered too.  Their lips met.

“Dad, Miss Ellie and Mr. Vernon are at it again.” Gill looked over at his son sticking out his tongue and making a face.

“You don’t think your mother and I do that?”  Gill asked, walking over to Chloe.  He slipped his arm around her waist, hugging her close.  “Shall we show them?”

Chloe laughed.  She pointed toward the fire.  Phil took turns kissing each of his wives.  They faced the kids.  Arms spread and lips puckered, they moved toward the children making exaggerated kissing noises.  Phil followed them calling out. “Hug Monster on the loose.  Kissing one too.”

Giggles erupted.  Laughter flowed.  Tickling matches started.  Soft ‘love you’ sounded followed by ‘love you mom’ or ‘love you dad.’  Minutes passed as the joy of love enveloped everyone.

“I’m in the mood for love…” echoed down the stairs followed by Seregi’s growls.  The children giggled more as they ran to hide under the table.

“I see there is chocolate, marshmallows, and crackers.  All this will give me a large bellyache.  Who will help me eat this?”  Seregi poured himself a mug of tea.  He sipped and waited.

Trina, the mixed breed shapeshifter, rose from her place close to the fire.  She moved toward the table, pointing at it.  “I’ll help.  I think these mice under it will help too.”

The children popped out one by one calling out.  “I want to help.”

Soon smores and mugs along with glasses littered the table as all ate and shared their favorite joke.

The grandfather clock in the hall chimed ten times drowning out the laughter filling the room.  Gill held out his hand to Chloe who in turn held hers out to Miss Ellie and she to Vernon until all present formed a circle holding the hand of someone next to them.

Gill cleared his throat, drawing everyone’s focus.  “Earlier we learned snow is one of those four lettered words.”

Chuckles sounded.

Gill continued as the gaiety died down.  “I think we learned another four letter word tonight.  Love.  The love of friends, family, community, and for ourselves too.”

He raised his and Chloe’s joined hands.  “All together now.  Here’s to love and us.”

Other joined hands raised repeating the words.

The warmth and love filled the room and mayoral mansion heating it in a way that those present understood and cherish.  Cherished very much.

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Happy Weekend Gang!

You can follow the adventures of Talbot’s Peak at  Shapeshifter Seductions.

Cold got you down?  Put on a warm blanket, cuddle up with your spice and share a good book or two together.  We at the Spice Homestead are.  Spring is a few weeks more off.

I hope you enjoyed today’s flash fiction piece.  I thoroughly enjoyed writing it.

Until next week, keep warm–share a book or two along with a warm blanket with your spice and loves.  It creates a lot of lovely warm feelings and nurtures a linger heat deep in the heart.

Smiles,

Solara