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bellaireland1981 · 11 months

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Special Delivery for the Birthday Boy

Summary: You enlist Phoenix’s help to surprise your husband on his birthday. You’d been living on opposite coasts since he’d been called back to Top Gun and you were ready to reunite with him just in time to celebrate his birthday. An added bonus is you also get to surprise the rest of the Daggers who have no clue that Bradley is married.

Word Count: 3.9K

Pairings: Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw x Female! Reader

Warnings: Fluff, mentions of birthday sex but no actual smut, mentions of pregnancy.

A/N: I do not own TGM characters, I DO NOT give permission to anyone to repost, copy or translate my work to any other platform or website. Don’t steal my work... it’s not cool. AS always thank you to @waywardodysseys and @beyondthesefourwalls for letting me bounce ideas off them and encouraging me!! Reblogs and comments always appreciated!

Masterlist

Side note: Meant to get this posted yesterday but wanted to redo a few things on it...still not 100% sure I love how it turned out but...here you go!

YOU: HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY! I LOVE YOU! I’ll be in interviews all day but I’ll FaceTime you tonight. Fly Safe! 💋

HUBBY: Thank you, Dove. I miss you so much 🙁 Wish you were here. Love you 💗

“Are you sure he doesn’t know I’m coming?” You asked, putting your suitcase into the back and climbing into the passenger seat. “Thanks again for coming to get me!”

“Y/N, I promise, he’s absolutely clueless.” Phoenix assured you, smiling. “He’s been moping around all day because he can’t get a hold of you. And you’re welcome! I can’t wait to see his face!”

“I can’t wait to see his face either… I miss that face.” You said, leaning back in the seat. “I’ll be so happy when we’re living on the same damn coast again.”

“When will that be?” She asked, merging into the traffic leaving the San Diego International Airport. “Rooster mentioned you had some loose ends to tie up out East.”

“That’s part of his birthday present.” You said beaming, “I actually just accepted a teaching position for the fall. I had an interview over Zoom yesterday. Bradley thinks I’m in interviews all day today.”

“Y/N that’s awesome!” Phoenix exclaimed, “He’ll be so damn excited.”

“I’m excited.” You laughed, “I’ve had enough of being across the country from my husband. Especially after the last mission. How are things really going with him and Maverick?”

“Honestly?” She said, “Much better than when we got back to Top Gun. They’ve talked and are actively trying. It’s been really good for Rooster.”

“Good.” You replied, “I’ve been trying to get him to reach out for a few years. He just wasn’t ready. I’m glad he got this chance. It’ll be interesting to meet the man.”

“He’s a good guy.” She said, “Bob and I are the only ones that know about you, by the way.”

“I figured.” You laughed. “I’m kind of looking forward to that bombshell being dropped too. From everything I’ve heard about everyone, the reactions should be priceless. I’m especially looking forward to Hangman’s reaction.”

“Oh, this will be absolutely priceless.” Phoenix laughed, “For as much shit as he gives Rooster for never hitting on women at the Hard Deck and not having any game… he’s going to have to eat his words. He’ll most likely hit on you though if he meets you before knowing you’re married to Rooster.”

“Are things better between them though?” You asked, “I know Hangman wasn’t Bradley’s favorite person… and they’ve butted heads in the past. When it counted though, that man came through for my husband and it’s a debt I’ll never be able to repay.”

“They’ve formed a tentative friendship.” She said, “It’s new… but there is a strong mutual respect between them. They’ve flown better together in training since the mission…have become a pretty damn good team actually.”

“It makes me feel better knowing he’s got the best pilots in the Navy flying with him.” You said, “I always felt safer when I knew he was deployed with you.”

“Just because you know I’ll keep his ass out of trouble.” She laughed. “I get it though. You have to trust your wingman. This last mission showed us that we can really all trust one another to come through for each other.”

She pulled into the driveway of her apartment complex parking her car and the two of you got out. You grabbed your suitcase from the back and followed her up to her apartment.

“Ok I just need like a half hour to shower and get ready!” You said, “Then I’ll be ready to go!”

“Take your time.” She laughed, “I’ll grab a towel for you. While you shower, I’ll text the group. Jake is actually in charge of getting Bradley to the Hard Deck for birthday drinks.”

You opened your suitcase, pulling out a sundress you’d left on top for easy access. It was one of Bradley’s favorites on you so you made sure to pack it. You grabbed the strapless bra and matching lace panties you’d bought to wear with the dress and headed to the shower. You tied your hair up so it wouldn’t get wet and quickly jumped into the shower.

True to your word, thirty minutes later you were dressed and ready to go. You’d left your hair down, opted for light makeup and only wore a necklace Bradley had given you for your anniversary (a Dove pendant on a dainty silver chain). You slipped your feet into wedge sandals and grabbed your purse and the small gift bag with Bradley’s other birthday present in it and headed out to the living room where Phoenix was waiting.

“Ready!” You said, excited to finally be headed out to see your husband.

“Jake said he’s having a hard time getting Rooster to go to the bar. He asked him after work and he said he was just going to go home.” Phoenix said. “I can drop you off at the Hard Deck then go to the house and drag his ass out. He’ll listen to me.”

“Hold on.” You said, “He’s probably waiting for me to FaceTime him and doesn't want to miss that call… SHIT! He’ll recognize your apartment…. Ok…. no problem.. I’ve got this.”

You brought your husband’s name up on your phone, hitting the call button.

“Baby you said FaceTime.” Bradley complained, answering the phone on the second ring. “Where’s your beautiful face?”

“I know, Sweetie,” You replied, sighing, “I promise I’ll FaceTime you later tonight. I messed up the time difference and I got a call from another school to interview with. I just really want to find a job out there so I can get to you. How about you go get a birthday drink with Nix and then by the time you get home I’ll be free and we can FaceTime.”

“It’s OK, Dove.” He said, “Good luck in the interview, Baby. They’ll all want you and you’ll have your pick of jobs. I just miss you so damn much. I want to be able to come home to you at night. I love you.”

“I love you too, Bradley.” You said, your heart breaking at how sad he sounded, even knowing you were about to make him so happy. “I’ll be home there with you before you even know it and you’ll be coming home to me every single night. Promise you’ll go get a drink with your friends? Celebrate your birthday?”

“I promise.” He said, “I’ll talk to you later, Baby. Good Luck.”

“Thank you, Sweetie.” You replied, “I love you so so much.”

“Love you too.” He replied.

After hanging up you had Phoenix text the group chat again to let everyone know that drinks were happening at the Hard Deck in thirty minutes for Bradshaw’s birthday. Then she texted Bradley and let him know she wasn’t taking ‘No’ for an answer.

PHOENIX: Bradshaw, your ass better be at the Hard Deck in 30 minutes or I’ll be at your house to drag your ass out myself. 😡

ROOSTER: My wife already texted you? Lol 😂 I’m changing out of my flight suit now. Be there in 30.

“Alright, he’s changing now!” Phoenix said, smiling, “Let’s get you to your husband!”

You pulled your suitcase back down to her car, throwing it into the back again to be transferred to your husband’s Bronco once you were at the Hard Deck. Knowing you were going to be seeing him in 30 minutes caused excitement to flood your system. You’d been married for three years, together for five and gone through much longer deployments and separations that the one you’d just been through, but never before had he flown such a dangerous mission where it had been pretty much assumed someone wasn’t coming home.

“Not long now!” Phoenix said, smiling over at you, knowing where your head was going. “An added bonus to this new assignment is the deployments won’t be as often or as long. We will actually be getting to do more instructing of the new classes of Top Gun students in between missions. You won’t have to worry about long separations anymore.”

“I’ve done ok as long as I didn’t let myself think about it too much.” You said, “The minute I let myself think about how close he came to not coming home… I lose it.”

“You’ll feel much better once you see him and have him back in your arms.” She promised, “I know he’ll feel better once he’s got you in his arms too.”

“You’re right.” You said. “Just need him in my arms.”

She pulled into the parking lot of the bar a short time later and you made your way inside.

“Looks like everyone except Rooster is here.” Phoenix said, spotting everyone in their regular corner of the bar when they walked in. “Let’s go grab drinks from the bar and kill time until he gets here. I want him to be the one to introduce you.”

You followed her to the bar, sitting in one of the free seats.

“Hey, Phoenix.” Penny said, coming over, “What can I get for you two?”

“Hey, Penny.” She replied, “I’ll take a beer, Y/N?”

“Just a Ginger Ale or Sprite if you have it?” You asked, smiling. “I’m going to be DD tonight for my husband.”

“One of these aviators belong to you?” Penny asked, grabbing the beer for Phoenix and filling a glass with ice and pouring the amber soda for you.

“He’s not here yet.” You replied, smiling. “But yeah, I have to take claim for an aviator.”

“Penny, do you know if Mav is coming tonight?” Phoenix asked, winking at you. “Figured he might pop in for Rooster’s birthday.”

“I think he said he’s stopping in.” She replied, “I’m so glad those two are finally talking!”

“You and me both!” Phoenix replied, taking a drink of her beer.

“Phoenix, why are you sitting over here keeping your beautiful friend here from joining us?” A smooth voice sounded behind you both. You turned and smirked, knowing exactly who was standing behind you.

“Bagman, you’re not allowed to harass my friend.” Phoenix said, rolling her eyes. “She is definitely not your type.”

“I’m Hangman.” He said, flashing a megawatt smile, complete with dimples. You were sure that smile landed him plenty of ladies. You had to bite back a laugh when you glanced over at Phoenix who was rolling her eyes. “Or Jake, whichever you prefer.”

“I’m Y/N. It’s nice to meet you, Hangman.” You replied, glancing behind him as the door opened and a very familiar mustached aviator walked in wearing one of his million Hawaiian shirts. Thankfully he hadn’t seen you yet so you still had the element of surprise. “Phoenix is right though, you’re not my type. I only give my heart to 6 '1”, brown eyed,curly haired, aviators with mustaches and a penchant for Hawaiian shirts.”

“Oddly specific…” He said, confused, but turning to see where your eyes had landed. You hopped off the seat and moved past him, straight into Bradley’s line of sight.

“Lieutenant Bradshaw!” You called, catching his attention. His head shot up, his eyes locking in on you immediately, a shocked smile stretching across his face. “Surprise, Baby! Happy Birthday!”

“Dove!” He exclaimed, finally snapping out of his shock. He closed the distance between you two quickly, meeting him in the middle, and scooped you up into his arms. Your legs wrapped around him so he was holding you koala style, your lips locking against his own in a passionate kiss, neither of you caring that you were standing in the middle of a crowded bar. “Fuck, I’ve missed you so damn much, Y/N. I can’t believe you’re really here!”

“Forgive me for not FaceTiming now?” You asked, laughing “I was at Phoenix’s apartment when I called.”

“You’re a little minx.” He laughed. “I forgive you baby.”

“Bradshaw!” Jake said, “Care you’ve got some explaining to do.”

“Give me a minute, Hangman.” Bradley replied, setting you down, but not letting you go. “I haven’t seen my wife in a couple of months. Let me say ‘hello’.”

“WIFE?” Jake exclaimed, “Phoenix, you know about this?”

“Yup.” She smirked, leading Jake away from you and Bradley. “Give them a minute. They’ll join us shortly.”

You were still wrapped in Bradley’s arms and you finally felt like you were home.

“I can’t believe you’re really here, Dove.” He said, resting his forehead against your own. “You look so beautiful, Baby.”

“I’m really here, my love.” You promised, kissing him softly. “It’s so good to see your face and kiss you and to be in your arms. I love you so much. From now on, I will go where you go whenever humanly possible.”

“I love you too, Beautiful.” He replied, “I’m hoping this will be our permanent home base. How close are we to being a one coast family?”

“Actually, how likely is it that you can get leave to help me pack up our Virginia house?” You asked.

“Pretty likely.” He smiled, “Do you have a timeline?”

“Whenever you’re ready.” You said, “I accepted a job out here for the fall, officially resigned at the district in Virginia Beach and cleared out my classroom two days ago.”

“FUCK YES!” He exclaimed, picking you up and swinging you around, “I’ll put in for leave tomorrow. As soon as it’s granted we’ll book a flight back and pack it all up and list the house.”

“Bradshaws!” Jake yelled, “Join the party!”

“We’re being paged.” You laughed, “Come on, Baby. Introduce me to your friends.”

You and Bradley walked over to the corner where everyone had congregated and introductions were made.

“Everyone, this is my wife Y/N.” Bradley said, happy to finally get to introduce you to everyone, “Baby, this is the squad. You’ve met Hangman. That’s Payback, Fanboy, Coyote, and you already know Bob.”

“Hey Y/N” Bob said, coming over to hug you, “It’s good to see you again!”

“Hi, Bob!” You replied smiling, hugging him back, “It’s so good to see you too!” Then looking at the rest of the group you smiled and said, “It’s so nice to finally meet you all. Bradley’s told me all about you guys.”

“Wait a damn minute!” Jake said, turning to glare and Bradley, “Phoenix and Bob BOTH knew you had a wife? What the HELL, Rooster? I saved your life and I don’t get to be in the cool kids club knowing you have a WIFE? I thought we were friends, man.”

“Jake…”Bradley said, unsure what to say, “Come on man, it’s not like that…we are friends…”

You look over at Jake who’s doing all that he can to not smile, enjoying the fact that Bradley has no idea what to say.

“Baby, he’s playing you.” You told your husband, winking at Jake. “Jake, stop bullying my husband. It’s his birthday. Play nicely and you come over for home cooked meals.”

“Yes, Ma’am.” He replied, smiling, “Sorry, Rooster. Couldn’t resist. Congrats on the beautiful wife. She’s a firecracker. Definitely keep her.”

“I plan on it, Hangman.” Bradley said, shaking his head at the blonde aviator.

The night continues with the group playing pool, swapping stories, drinking and you filling them in on how you and Bradley met and ended up married. Eventually, Phoenix made her way to the Jukebox and pulled the plug, silencing the music, causing your husband to chuckle. There was a mixed reaction from the bar to the music being cut. Some booed, upset that whatever had been playing was cut off mid song, the rest cheered, clearly knowing something was about to happen.

“That’s my cue, Baby.” Bradley said, tapping your leg to signal he needed up. You stood up to let him get off the chair, but before you could sit back down, he grabbed your hand and pulled you along with him to an upright piano.

“They clearly know your party trick.” You teased, “Come on birthday boy, serenade your fans.” Bradley sat down on the bench, pulling you down next to him. His fingers moved over the keys, playing a random melody before launching into the familiar intro chords to Great Balls of Fire. You knew he could play a million other songs, but this one in particular held the most meaning to him as it was the one his dad had played and sang when he was little before he died.

You could tell Bradley had done this before here because everyone crowded around and were singing along with him while he played. You joined in, belting out the song alongside your husband. KISS ME BABY.. (you leaned in to kiss him quickly) OOOOO THAT FEELS GOOD, HOLD ME BABY….. WELL, I’LL STILL HOLD YOU LIKE A LOVER SHOULD….. YOU’RE FINE…. SO KIND… I GOT TO TELL THIS WORLD THAT YOU’RE MINE MINE MINE MINE!

When the song finished the bar erupted into loud cheers and chants yelling “ROOSTER”. You loved seeing your husband in his element like this. You quickly took advantage of being in front of the piano and scooted your husbands fingers off the keys, replacing them with your own and started to play Happy Birthday. You were happy when everyone around you immediately joined in and soon the entire bar was signing to your husband.

“Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy BIRTHDAY dear ROOSTER, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!”

“Make a wish, Baby”! You said, turning towards him.

“All my wishes have come true.” He replied, leaning in to kiss you.

“Hey Rooster,” Phoenix said, gently, not wanting to interrupt the moment. “Mav’s at the bar.”

“Ready to meet my Godfather?” He asked you.

“Definitely ready.” You replied. “Then I’ve got the rest of your birthday present.”

“Baby!” He exclaimed, “You’re here, you’re MOVING here, YOU are my present.”

“Ok, well, there’s more.” You shrugged laughing. “Introduce me to Mav.”

Bradley took your hand and led you to the bar where Mav was sitting sipping a beer. He looked up as you both approached and smiled, standing up.

“Happy Birthday, Kid.” Mav said, hugging Bradley tightly.

“Thanks, Mav.” He replied, hugging him back. “There’s someone I’d like you to meet.”

You stepped closer, smiling softly. You were nervous to meet the man that meant so much to Bradley and who had been like a father to him growing up before everything had exploded. You wanted to help your husband to build that relationship back up, knowing how important it was to have family. Your own parents adored Bradley and had immediately welcomed him into the family when you’d brought him home the first time.

“This is my wife, Y/N.” He said, his arm around your waist, “Baby, this Mav. He helped my mom raise me after my dad died.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Y/N.” Mav said, his voice thick with emotion.

“It’s great to finally meet you too.” You replied, smiling, stepping forward to pull him into a hug. “I’ve heard so much about you.”

“For the record, Y/N’s been trying to get me to reach out for a couple of years now.” Bradley admitted. “I’m just bullheaded.”

“At least he admits it.” You laughed. “We’d love to have you over for dinner though, Mav. I’d really love to get to know you.”

“I would love that, Y/N.” He replied, “I’d love to get to know the one making my Godson so happy.”

“He’s easy to love.” You said, looking over your shoulder at your husband. “He makes me pretty damn happy too.”

“I think I’m going to steal my wife now and take her home.” Bradley said, “She just flew in today and is still on East Coast time.”

“Sounds good.” Mav said, “Enjoy the rest of your birthday, Kid. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Thank you,” He replied, smiling, “See you tomorrow.”

After saying goodbye to the rest of the squad, you were finally able to escape out to the Bronco. Phoenix had already transferred your suitcase while you were inside.

“Do you need me to drive?” You asked, you hadn’t kept track of your husband’s drinks tonight.

“Nope. I’m good.” He said, smiling, opening the passenger door for you,“Only had 2 beers earlier, nothing since. Hop in, Dove.”

You leaned back in the seat, enjoying the air coming in from the open windows as Bradley drove you both home. He had found an apartment not far from base that did short term leases when he’d come back to San Diego for the mission. Now that you knew it would be permanent the two of you could start to look for a house together. You made a mental note to start looking at listings tomorrow while he was at work.

The apartment wasn’t too far from The Hard Deck either, so before long, Bradley was pulling the Bronco into the parking space and shutting it off. He came around to open your door for you before pulling your suitcase from the back of the Bronco.

“Ready to see our temporary home in person?” He asked

“More than ready.” You said, “Especially the bed… I really wanna see the bed.”

“I can’t wait to get you into bed either, Baby.” He smirked, “Birthday sex is the best.”

“Lead the way, Stud.” You winked, “I still have another birthday surprise for you.”

“Is it under your dress?” He asked, taking your hand and leading you to the front door, unlocking it and ushering you inside.

“It is…” You replied, “But I need something from my suitcase first.” You unzipped the suitcase and pulled out the small gift bag inside before handing it to Bradley. “Happy Birthday, Baby.”

He smiled, reaching to take the bag, leaning down to kiss you as he did, “Thank you, Dove.”

He opened the bag, taking out the tissue paper, and pulling out two onesies. Holding them up, you could see the moment it registered in his head what he was looking at. His eyes filled with tears as he read each one.

“Future Aviator, just like my Daddy,” He read, before holding up the other one to read, “Daddy’s Wingman”

He looked up at you, “Baby, you’re….we’re…really?” He was too choked up to get the words out. You smiled, tears of your own spilling over and running down your cheeks.

“Yes” You whispered, unable to get your own voice to work. He carefully set the onesies in the bag and pulled you into his arms, your own going around his neck. His lips connected with yours in a deep kiss, desperate to convey all of his love and feelings to you in that moment.

“We’re having a baby.” He whispered, when you’d both pulled back to breathe. “How far along?”

“I just hit 11 weeks.” You said, then reached for your purse to pull out the sonogram photo you had safely tucked inside, “And actually… let’s go sit on the couch and I’ll show you the sonogram…”

He took your hand leading you to the couch, sitting down with you tucked into his side. You handed him the envelope with the copies of the sonogram from the doctor. He carefully opened it up, pulling them out to look.

“Dove…” He said, shock once again covering his face “Are you serious right now?”

“Surprise!” You chuckled, “Turns out you're top 1% in more than just flying, Baby.”

“We’re having twins.” He smiled, looking at the sonogram, “I’m gonna be a daddy.”

“You’re gonna be the best daddy.” You confirmed, “Happy Birthday, Bradley.”

“This has been the best birthday ever, Dove.” He replied, leaning over to kiss you. “Thank you for making all of my wishes come true.”

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#bradley rooster bradshaw #bradley bradshaw x reader #top gun fanfiction #Miles Teller

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whitefireprincess · 1 month

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San Diego International Airport | John

#san diego #california #airport #glow #planes #sky #uotd #whitefireprincess

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southpawbitch · 7 months

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Around the World and Back (With You) | Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw x Reader

(18+, minors dni)

after hooking up with bradley at the beginning of summer, you can’t seem to shake him–or your developing feelings.

warnings: age gap (reader is 21 (at the start), bradley is 32), asshole jake, complicated hannix side plot, somewhat forbidden romance, asshole bradley (a teensy bit), bradley’s ex gf is...present

✧ reader’s nickname is sunny for her bright disposition

✧ playlist/moodboard (tbh, if anyone is interested)

1 | Coronado Beach | May 2018

2 | Downtown San Diego | August 2018

3 | Los Angeles | October 2018

4 | Rome | December 2018

5 | Manhattan | March 2019

6 | USC Graduation | May 2019

7 | North Island | July 2019

8 | Los Angeles | September 2019

9 | SLC International Airport | November 2019

10 | Home | November 2019

#bradley bradshaw #rooster bradshaw #bradley rooster bradshaw #bradley bradshaw x reader #bradley bradshaw fanfiction #bradley rooster bradshaw x reader #Top Gun fic #bradley bradshaw fic #bradley rooster bradshaw fic

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tip-top-cloud-surfer · 10 months

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The Forgotten Nest (Epilogue) - Rooster

Pairing: Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw / Mitchell!OC (Cora)

Word Count: 1.4k

This work, all my works, and my entire blog are 18+ Only

Warnings: Past Unplanned Teenage Pregnancy; Crying; Named Mitchell Daughter OC (Cora) and Named Mitchell-Bradshaw Son (Nickie) and other named OCs

Summary: Ten years after the uranium facility mission, Nickie returns to Miramar.

A.N. There are references to a previous unplanned teenage pregnancy (between two eighteen-year-olds) in this fic. There won't be any flashback scenes to the pregnancy, but the references are still there, so if that makes you uncomfortable, please do not read.

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8

Master List

Nickie walked through San Diego International Airport, excited to get home and surprise his family. Walking through the crowd, Nickie beamed when he spotted his ride home waiting for him. Amelia Benjamin waved to him and hurried over to greet Nickie.

“Welcome home,” Amelia joked, pulling Nickie in for a tight hug.

“It’s like you’re actually happy to see me,” Nickie replied, hugging her back. Pulling back after a moment, Nickie grinned and gestured between them. “Hey, I think I’m a full head taller than you now.”

“Don’t get ahead of yourself,” Amelia huffed, poking him in the gut. “Now, let’s get going.”

“And that’s all the warm welcome I get?” Nickie called teasingly as Amelia walked away, causing her to shoot him a playfully annoyed look over her shoulder. “You haven’t seen me in two years and that’s all that I get?”

“You’ll get to walk home if you don’t hurry up, Prince,” Amelia mocked Nickie, causing him to sour.

“Do you really have to call me that?”

“It’s your callsign,” Amelia reminded him, grinning because she knew how much he hated it when people from back home called him by his callsign. “You get called that every day. Now, come on. There’s probably traffic.”

Nickie and Amelia caught up on their drive to the Mitchell house about everything that happened since they last saw each other. They still regularly texted and emailed, since Nickie was all over the planet these days, but it had been a while since they actually were able to sit down and talk like old times. But it never took long for them to find their rhythm again.

“And we’re here,” Amelia called victoriously, putting the car into park in front of the Mitchell house.

“In one piece. Shocking,” Nickie replied, reaching for the door handle.

“You’re the one with the ticket on their record,” Amelia shot back, causing Nickie to groan.

“One time! When I was sixteen. It’s been ten years!”

“And we’ll still never let you forget it,” Amelia laughed, sliding out of her seat. “Come on. Before they hear your big mouth. Leave your bag.”

Nickie followed Amelia up the stairs of his childhood home but stuck a bit farther back. Amelia turned for the kitchen, waving to everyone. Maverick and Penny sat at the table, chatting, while Cora walked around the kitchen.

“Hey, I brought a friend. Is that okay?” Amelia asked, causing Cora to pick her head up.

“You know it is,” Cora assured Amelia with a kind smile. “Where are they?”

“Just behind me.”

Amelia stepped to the side and Nickie walked further into his childhood home and into the view of his mom. Cora let out a shrieky gasp before rushing forward to hug her baby boy. Nickie laughed and hugged his mom back, letting her cry and hold onto him for however long she wanted.

“You told me that you wouldn’t be home for three more months!” Cora complained, rocking Nickie back and forth.

“Well, something came up,” Nickie replied, causing Cora to pull away and hold him at arm’s length.

“What is it?”

“I’ll be temporarily stationed in North Island for a few weeks,” Nickie explained with a proud smile.

“Top Gun?” Maverick called from his place behind Cora. He stood back, letting his daughter thoroughly welcome her son home at first, but at the insinuation that Nickie made, he couldn’t help but step forward. “You made it to Top Gun?”

“As of two days ago,” Nickie stated, causing Cora to hold a hand to her mouth.

“Oh, Nickie, we’re so proud of you!”

Nickie accepted another bone crushing hug from his mom and then one from his grandfather, who still somehow barely had any gray hair, before glancing around the kitchen. Releasing his grandfather, Nickie looked in between Cora and Maverick.

“Where’s everyone else?”

“They just went out to grab something. They’ll be back any second,” Cora sniffled, still choked up from the surprise. “Maybe I should call them.”

“I’ll do it,” Maverick offered, knowing that Cora couldn’t keep her voice level right now.

Nickie moved to greet Penny and catch up with her briefly before another set of headlights pulled into the driveway. Nickie stepped back into the hallway, out of sight of the main door, and waited for the rest of his family to come in. Rooster, now retired and working a more traditional nine to five, opened the door and held it open. A little girl with light brown curls and stark green eyes stepped inside, immediately moving to greet Cora.

“Mommy, Daddy took forever,” Carly Bradshaw-Mitchell complained, causing Cora to laugh and bend down to her height.

“He did, did he?” Cora asked, glancing up at her husband of six years.

“Nothing wrong with being thorough,” Rooster replied, not seeing Nickie quite yet. “Why’s everyone standing around?”

“Just a surprise,” Cora explained, standing back up.

Rooster frowned, a bit confused, but his daughter turned her head and spotted someone standing in the hallway. She tilted her head to the side suspiciously before she let out a gasp when she realized who the man standing in the hall was.

“NICKIE!” she shrieked before racing forward.

“Hey, Princess,” Nickie greeted his little sister, scooping her up and into his arms. “I missed you.”

Carly wrapped her arms and legs around her older brother, whimpering a bit. She looked up to Nickie more than perhaps anyone else in her life. And even though he was absent a lot because of his job, they FaceTimed and talked all that they could. And Nickie always made time for her.

“I missed you too,” Carly mumbled into his shoulder, refusing to let go of him. “You’re not allowed to leave again.”

“I’m not?”

“Nope.”

“Well, can’t argue with that,” Nickie chuckled, giving her another squeeze.

Rooster slowly approached his son, not wanting to interrupt the moment between the siblings, but still desperately wanting to greet his son after so many months apart.

“What are you doing here?” Rooster asked softly, still in a bit of shock.

“To see me!” Carly called indignantly, causing everyone to laugh.

“And I got called up,” Nickie replied, turning to his dad. “To a little school down the road.”

“Top Gun? You made Top Gun?” Rooster breathed out, not shocked but still immensely surprised.

“I start in two days,” Nickie explained, nodding along.

“Holy shit.”

“Bradley!” Cora admonished, shooting him a look and pointing at Carly. “Your daughter is right there.”

“I know I just—holy Jesus, Nickie, we’re so proud of you!”

Rooster couldn’t help himself anymore and pulled both of his children into a tight hug. Carly was a bit squished between her dad and her brother, but she didn’t mind it too much. It was better than Nickie not being home at all. Nickie kept an arm on his sister but pulled his dad in with his other arm, having missed him too.

It killed Nickie to hold in that secret about Top Gun for two days from his family. And now that the secret was finally out, he couldn’t stop smiling.

“Oh, come, let’s eat. You must be starving!” Cora called, still wiping tears from her cheeks. “And tell us all about the last few months.”

Nickie sat at the table, surrounding by his family with his sister perched on his lap. After all, if he was Prince—the callsign that he received after they found out about just how many aviators that he had in his family tree and extended network—then his little sister was rightfully Princess. And princesses got whatever they wanted.

Maverick looked between Nickie, Rooster, Cora, and Carly, remembering days in the distant past when he thought that an image like this would never be a possibility. But he was so relieved that those days were long gone and now, the Bradshaw-Mitchell family could just relax.

“He made it to Top Gun. Can you believe it?” Maverick wondered silently, glancing out the window at the setting sun.

He’s named after me, Mav! Of course, he made it! Goose would have said in return.

God help us all. Another Mitchell at Top Gun, Ice would have replied.

Smiling to himself, Maverick turned back to his family and simply enjoyed the moment.

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8

Thank you again to everyone for reading, commenting, and reblogging this story!!

Tags: @xoxabs88xox @eternallyvenus @mygyn @kmc1989 @thegoddessc @midnightmagpiemama @badasspizzalover @praline357 @oatmealisweird @a-court-of-roscoe-and-baby @abaker74 @avengersfan25 @yogabigooby @daisydaisygoose @sgt-barnesveins @angelbabyange @percysaidnever @artemissunn @indiestrashfire @kidd3ath @luv4kani @lt-spork @brooke-stinson

#top gun fanfiction #top gun maverick #top gun: maverick #tgm #top gun #tgm fanfiction #bradley rooster bradshaw #bradley bradshaw #rooster fanfic #rooster bradshaw #top gun rooster #bradley bradshaw x oc #bradley rooster x oc #bradley rooster bradshaw x oc #rooster #rooster x oc #rooster top gun #pete mitchell #pete maverick mitchell

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futfemfantasies · 1 year

Text

Zone Breaker \\ mapi león x reader

Request: Can I request a fic where Mapi is ussualy trying to get into the zone on the bus and not really talking to people but then she lets the new signing (reader) fall asleep on her shoulder and the team is really schoked

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

This is it. Your first day at your dream club, FC Barcelona. You have spent your entire childhood watching short clips of both the male and female teams since you didn’t get the live games due to living in Australia. Since you got transferred from your current, well now former club San Diego Wave, your teammate and best friend Alex is kindly dropping you off at the airport. You hear a knock on the door and you know it’s her. You quickly open the door and let Alex in, along with Charlie, before checking the apartment for anything you might have missed.

“You go away auntie Y/N/N?” Charlie asks.

“Only for a little bit Charlie bear” You bend down to tell the 2 year old.

“Oh” Charlie’s face went from happy to sad in a flash. You pick up Charlie and she holds onto you tightly.

“You ready to go?” Alex asks. You nod and pick up your backpack from the ground. Alex grabs your suitcase since you’re holding Charlie.

Once all the suitcases and backpacks are in the trunk, you clip Charlie in and move to the passenger seat. You turn around and see Charlie about to cry. You reach back and she holds your hand the best she can. You stay in the awkward position for 40 minutes until you reach the airport. You get out and Alex gets Charlie out of her seat. You open the trunk and put your backpack on before getting out your two big suitcases. You close the trunk and see a whimpering Charlie clinging onto Alex’s thigh. You bend down and the little girl runs the short distance to hug you tightly. After promising regular video calls and a visit over the Christmas/new year break. Next, Alex hugs you tightly and you promise to call once you get organised in Barcelona. One last kiss to Charlie’s forehead and you start wheeling your life into San Diego International Airport.

“BYE AUNTIE Y/N/N!” You hear Charlie yell. You turn back and wave to her.

After checking your overweight bags in, you get through security and get a message from your good friend, Lucy Bronze.

hey girl! Keira and I will be at the airport to pick you up. Love ya!

You reply to Lucy before waiting at the gate for your 15 hour flight. After a delayed stopover, you finally made it to your new city of Barcelona. You collect your bags and see your two former teammates. You drive to their house where they said you can crash until you find your own place. A few days later, Lucy and Keira have to go to training so you decided to tag along, with your boots just in case. You all arrive at the training ground and someone else pulls up at the same time you do. You see her step out of the car and you breath is taken away.

“Who’s that?” You ask the couple.

“That’s Maria but she likes being called Mapi” You hum in response and subtly check out the tatted blonde.

You all walk in and Jonatan spots you and pulls you aside. He explains how training days work and if you weren’t too jet lagged, you can join in on the session. Jonatan walks you to the locker room and tells you there’s a kit for you to wear along with some other things. When he leaves, you feel a hand on your shoulder. You look up and see Lucy.

“Come on, I’ll introduce you to the girls that’s in there”

You both walk in and to your surprise, only one is in there. You recognise it’s Mapi from the car park.

“Hey Maps, I want to introduce you to someone” Mapi walks over and sports the most beautiful smile you’ve ever seen.

“Hi, I’m Y/N” You hold out your hand for Mapi to shake but she pulls you into a hug instead.

“Hola, I’m Mapi but this one has probably told you that” You nod and hug her back.

“I’ll get changed and meet you out there?” Lucy nods and walks out.

You grab your kit and quickly get changed in the bathroom. When you walk out you see Mapi sitting there on her phone.

“I thought you would be warming up already” Mapi jumps at the sound of your voice.

“I didn’t want you to get lost to the field”

You smile and quickly put on your socks before grabbing your shoes and start the short journey to the training fields. As you are both walking, Mapi notices that you’re holding your boots.

“You’re not wearing your boots now?” Mapi questions.

“No I don’t put them on until I’m on grass. I know it’s sounds stupid but it’s a good luck thing I have, for training and games”

Mapi and you make small talk on the way to the field and subtly flirting with each other. Once you arrive to the group, Jonatan introduces you to everyone and then explains what the drills for today are going to be. Once Jonatan finishes, you quickly slip on your boots and start the training session. You found yourself with Mapi for nearly every drill until Alexia claimed she was “hogging the newbie” so you went with Alexia for a few.

Over the next few weeks, you have busy exploring Barcelona with either Lucy and Keira, Mapi, Alexia or small groups from the team. You felt extremely lucky to have such a nice group of teammates and now friends. Throughout those few weeks came many training sessions, proving to Jonatan why you are one of the best on the Matildas, but yet still no game time.

It’s game day and everyone had to arrive at the training grounds by 10am. You, Lucy and Keira pull up and you’re all one of the last players there. You walk over to everyone and say your hello’s before being ushered onto the bus by Jonatan. You notice that Mapi is being very quiet and closed off. You shrug it off and hop onto the bus to find your usual seat up the back. Alexia and Jenni sit in front of you and you tap Alexia on the shoulder.

“Is Mapi okay?” You ask.

“She gets like this before every game. She’s in the zone” Alexia says with a weird hand movement.

“Right okay”

You sit back and put your earphones in and talk to one of your best friends from the Matildas, Sam Kerr. You both talk about everything for a few hours until she has to go to training. You both promise to catch up when the international friendlies are on, that Australia isn’t partaking in for some reason. You put your phone and earphones away and decide to go see Mapi. You walk down the aisle of the bus and sit next to Mapi. You intertwine your hands together and Mapi looks down and smiles when she sees your tattoo on your hand. She wraps her arm around your waist and pulls you into her. You yawn slightly and Mapi looks at you with a frown on her face.

“Are you tired?”

“A little. I was talking with my parents last night and didn’t get to bed until 11” You reply.

“Go to sleep. I’ll wake you when we get there” You nod and Mapi intertwines your other hand with hers.

All around the bus everyone is shocked that Mapi is even letting you sit next to her let alone sleep on her. The different friendship groups talk amongst themselves about how you’ve broken Mapi’s ‘zone’. A few hours later, you feel a kiss on your cheek and someone whispering something in your ear.

“Hey there sleepy head, we’re here”

You open your eyes and notice the bus stopped moving and most of the girls are off already. You do a little stretch and fix your hair before moving back down the bus to grab your bag. When you turn back around, Mapi’s gone. You walk off the bus and follow the girls into the locker room to get prepared for the match. Just before heading out to start, you pull Mapi aside.

“Hey, is everything okay?”

“Everything is perfect hermosa” Mapi replies with a kiss to your cheek.

You start on the bench for this game and Mapi is starting. As the game goes on, you feel Pina nudging you slightly when she catches you staring at Mapi.

“Ask her out, she stares at you too”

You think about what Pina has said until Jonatan calls you up to be put in for your debut at Barcelona. You see Oshoala run towards you and you high five her before running into position. By the 89th minute the scores are levelled. Barcelona need to win this to move to the semi finals of the Copa de Reina cup. Sandra kicks a short goal kick to Mapi, who dribbles it for a little before passing it to Lucy. You run up a little, still keeping onside, and Lucy does a chip pass to you. You run rings around the defenders and kick the ball into the top right corner, making the score 3-2. Your teammates run and jump on you and Mapi gives you a quick hug and a kiss on the forehead.

“I’m so proud of you”

You thank her and run back to your starting position. Thankfully the ref only adds 2 minutes of injury time which is enough for you and your teammates to hold off. When the ref blows the whistle, you shake hands with the other team and try to find Mapi instantly. You see her talking to Alexia and Pina so you decide to jump on her back to surprise her. You kiss her cheek and she looks at you with an added sparkle in her eye. You jump down and she gives you a tight hug. Alexia and Pina move away to give you two some privacy.

You both look in each other’s eyes as your arms wrap around Mapi’s neck and hers around your waist. You keep looking at her lips and she does the same with yours.

“Kiss me” You whisper in Spanish. Mapi wastes no time in connecting her lips to yours. You both pull away quite quickly as there’s lots of fans with cameras.

“Will you go on a date with me?” Mapi asks shyly.

“I thought you’d never ask”

#mapi leon x reader #barcelona femeni x reader woso #womens soccer #woso imagine #woso imagines #woso x reader #barcelona femeni #fcb femeni

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vivalas-vega · 1 year

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new perspectives / part four / jake ‘hangman’ seresin

y’all this one is a doozy... I cried three separate times while writing it. I apologize in advance :( as always let me know what you think and if you want to be added to the taglist!

new perspectives / part four / jake ‘hangman’ seresin x reader

add yourself to my taglist

prologue - one - two - three

word count: 6.8k

warnings: language, drinking, angst !!!, this chapter is basically an episode of grey’s anatomy (which means lots of medical inaccuracies and lots of drama)

San Diego had thoroughly and completely captured your heart, you now spent your days during the mindless surgeries thinking back to the cloudless skies, relaxed people, and beautiful beaches… along with just a few people who made it so much better. That day after your first Hard Deck outing had consisted of hitting the touristy areas on your own during the morning, sitting on the beach exactly when the Daggers had told you to so you could very briefly see them in the air, and going out to their favorite food truck before you inevitably had to return back to Boston and when you did you felt yourself itching to head back west. You did what Jake had asked of you and (theoretically) kept your options open… you’d been quite the jetsetter this month as you visited hospitals in Seattle, Los Angeles, Austin and New Orleans and they were all just as interested in you as San Diego but they just couldn’t match what they were willing to invest in you and so you’d made your choice.

Jake had kept up his end of the promise and let you make the decision, but he didn’t seem as enthusiastic about it as you had hoped. It wasn’t that he was disappointed per se but it wasn’t the response you’d been banking on… you got that response from everyone else though, and Rooster and Phoenix had been incredible in helping you with your impending cross-country move. You’d sent them to house showings and spent countless hours on facetime as they walked you through house after house until all three of you unanimously decided on a beautiful Spanish revival home right in Coronado. Sure, it was a fixer upper and would require a lot of love and a lot of elbow grease but you saw the potential and all the Dagger’s had easily offered up their services to help you bring your vision to life.

Blake had been surprisingly great throughout the whole thing, you’d expected (and were kind of hoping) for him to cut and run when you’d told him your decision but he stayed… he’d looked through listings with you, helped you pack up your apartment and make several Goodwill runs, and even organized a going away party after your last official surgery at the bar near the hospital with all of your friends and favorite attendings. You really were expecting things to fizzle out once you told him you were moving but they didn’t, and as many times as you tried to tell him he didn’t have to stick around he was more than content to do so… you knew he saw a future with you but he also knew that you didn’t, and he was okay with that. He was content to just be in your bubble until he couldn’t, and no matter how badly you felt about hurting him he didn’t seem to mind.

Standing there in your empty apartment and overlooking the hospital from your bedroom window you were reminded of when you and Jake stood in exactly this spot all those years ago… so much had happened since then. You really truly became a doctor, you studied for and passed your intern exam, you completed your first solo surgery, you and your fellow residents just about went insane prepping for the boards. You learned who you were out here, and for that you would always love the city of Boston but you wouldn’t necessarily miss the accents or that faint smell of the harbor that seemed to waft for blocks.

“Hey, I’m glad I caught you,” you heard Blake say, turning to see him cautiously entering through your open front door and you gave him a small smile.

“Just taking a moment before I head to the airport,” you said and he nodded, closing the distance between you with a thin black box in his hand that you were terrified was a necklace or a bracelet.

“A little going away present,” he said and you took it carefully.

“You’ve already done so much, you really didn’t have to get me anything,” you said as you opened the lid and let out a soft gasp… it was a beautiful black and gold Montblanc pen with Dr. Jupiter engraved along the side and you looked at him with wide eyes. “Blake…”

“Congratulations, you’re truly an incredible doctor and I would have been remiss if I let this moment pass by without properly celebrating it.” he said as you wrapped your arms around him and your phone dinged as you pulled away letting you know your car was here… he seemed to understand as you looked up at him and nodded, reaching around you to grab your carryon. “Come on, I’ll walk you down.”

“Thank you… for the pen and for just sticking around these last few weeks,” you said as you strolled through your lobby.

“Thank you for letting me,” he said, closing you into the car and you looked through the open window at him for a moment before grabbing him by the collar and pulling him down to meet your lips for a chaste kiss. You had briefly wished that you could envision a life here with him, he was sweet and predictable and stable, but you couldn’t... this wasn’t your story or your life, you had a new life awaiting you in San Diego.

“You’re a really great guy, Blake. I’m sorry I couldn’t be what you needed,” you said and he just smiled.

“Don’t be. Now get out of here, go be extraordinary and don’t forget sunscreen… I look forward to reading your groundbreaking papers in the medical journals,” he said, tapping on the hood of the car to signal your driver and you gave him a soft wave as he faded into the distance.

“You’re here!” Phoenix had squealed as you climbed out of Jake’s truck in front of your new home and she all but tackled you to the ground in a hug that soon all the Dagger’s had joined in on. They led you inside and gave you a tour because frankly… they knew it a lot better than you did and you laughed as you saw paint swatches along a living room wall and looked at Jake questioningly.

“She threatened to shoot me out of the sky if I didn’t give her the keys after I picked them up,” he said, gesturing to Phoenix.

“We have to hit the ground running! I picked some colors based on the inspiration photos you sent,” she said, walking you through each one and definitely not being unbiased as she did.

“I don’t mind, I’m clearly going to need all the help I can get.” you said, and after a tequila shot toast to the new place they all started to leave one by one to give you some time to settle in and rest after your long day. Before Rooster had left he showed you to the rather exquisite temporary bedding situation he’d set up for you, saying something about the best air mattress on the market and if you ruin my camping supplies I’ll kill you and just as you and Phoenix were wrestling to open a champagne bottle for mimosas and your first official remodeling planning session Jake came into the kitchen and took you by surprise.

“Well, you two ladies enjoy your planning session, I’ll see you tomorrow when the movers arrive, yeah?” he said, moving towards the door and you and Phoenix shared a look before you chased after him and caught him on the front porch.

“You’re not staying?” you asked and he shook his head. “Come on, we can’t break a time honored Jake and Jupiter tradition, we’re supposed to get drunk and order takeout and have a sleepover in the new place.”

“It’ll be good for you two to spend some one on one time together… go, get champagne drunk and plan out the house. I’ll be here when the moving truck gets here,” he said, pressing a kiss to your forehead and you watched as he got in his car and drove away. With a sigh you walked through the front door and grabbed a red solo cup full of champagne from Phoenix.

“What’s his deal?” she asked, taking a sip and looking at you over the rim of her own cup.

You sighed dramatically, “he thinks I made the decision to move here solely because of him and he’s being a real sourpuss about it.”

“Isn’t this supposed to be a good thing? You guys have been fighting an uphill battle for years with the distance and the careers… you guys are solid now, you’re a fellow, he’s got a permanent station. I thought you guys would be putting rings on it and making babies by now,” she joked.

“At the very least practicing making babies…” you said despondently and she raised an eyebrow at you. “It’s… been a hot minute and I just… god, every time I look at him I want to climb him like a tree.”

“Disgusting,” she muttered and you narrowed her eyes at her, “sorry, for two minutes I will pretend there is a world in which I can find Hangman sexually appealing,” she said, clearing her throat. “I hear you, girlfriend. I too would like to climb him like a tree,” she said and you just laughed as you grabbed the champagne bottle and walked down the hallway to your bedroom where the two of you settled onto the air mattress. “Just make a move, I doubt he’d object, he was staring at your ass the entire time we were doing the toast.”

You chuckled, “I don’t know, it’s just a little weird… I mean, we’ve talked about us before, lots of tortured pining stuff and wondering if we’d ever get a shot again and now we have one and it feels awkward. What am I supposed to do, just plant one on him then boom we’re back together?”

“If you wanna speed things along you could flirt with Rooster,” she said and you gave her a look that said be for real, right now. “I’m serious! Those two are good now, what with the whole saving your life seconds before you got blown to smithereens thing, but there’s still some deep-seated competition there, spark it and I guarantee you’ll get your hot hot Hangman sex,” you just shook your head, playfully shoving her shoulder before grabbing your laptop.

“That feels mean to Roo, caught him staring at my ass too,” you laughed, “if things were different though I would like to take that mustache for a ride…” you said, watching as she gagged.

“Stop being a horndog about my coworkers and pull up the spreadsheet,” she said, and the two of you spent the evening switching between Excel and Pinterest, making detailed plans for each room of the house and figuring out what order you wanted to go in. You briefly thought to yourself that Phoenix had a backup career in interior design if she ever grew tired of the pilot life but you knew that was about as likely as you ever putting your scalpel down. When the rest of the squad showed up the following morning, much too vibrant and loud for the state of your hangovers, you got the house unpacked in record time and by the time the sun was setting and casting a beautiful orange glow through your windows you had something that sort of resembled a home… if you looked past the terrible carpeting that needed to be removed and the questionable paint colors the previous owners had chosen. But that was all fine, this house was yours… really truly yours and you could do whatever you wanted with it because it was going to be your home for a very long time.

Work was everything you’d hoped it would be, your colleagues were amazing and they happily showed you how things worked… you had a few habits to break from your time at Mass Gen and they were more than understanding of the adjustment period you required but the biggest adjustment was getting used to not having to check in with an attending every time you wanted to rush someone off for surgery. Sure, as a fellow you still required supervision but they trusted you. After one week of a tight leash they realized you were more than capable of handling things on your own and when you weren’t in your office working closely with the Head of Trauma on your pilot program you were running the ER, something you could just feel in your bones was what you were meant to do. You thrived on the high pressure situations, on taking charge and dictating patient care and quickly you became the favorite superior to the residents and interns. You took the extra step to teach them, and you threw them into the deep end time after time which in turn made them better doctors and better equipped to handle patients.

One of the interns had joked and said you should be called Venus instead of Jupiter… something about being harsh and volatile but you took it as a compliment. Your new Chief had concerns about your method of teaching, said that things weren’t as cutthroat here as they were in Boston but he saw an immediate improvement in the interns. They were logging more OR hours and working great under pressure, something they had struggled with before you arrived and you felt satisfied to know you had so easily slipped into your new hospital's ecosystem and were making it better while they made you better.

Things were still distant with Jake, and you honestly felt like you were still across the country as you maintained your friendship… you hadn’t been expecting to jump in his arms the second your plane touched down for a romcom worthy reunion but you had at least expected something to happen by now. You’d been here for almost two months and nothing. You’d wanted to corner him, have a conversation about where you guys were at but there was never an opportunity with both of your schedules and all of the free time you did have was being spent with the rest of the Daggers who couldn’t take a hint because they honestly assumed the two of you had gotten back together and were just being respectful of PDA in their presence.

“How about another duet?” Rooster asked, leaning on the table you were currently sitting at and encroaching your personal space as he wiggled his eyebrows at you and you just shook your head.

“It’s going to take about five more tequila shots before that happens, Roo,” you said and he was off to the bar as you shouted after him, “that wasn’t an invitation!”

“You shouldn’t have humored him that night,” Phoenix said with a laugh, “he could never rope anyone in before and now you’ve set a precedent for yourself.”

“Any cool cases today, Jupiter?” Fanboy asked, snagging the seat next to you and you gave him a wide smile. You loved having him around, whereas everyone else listened to you talk about work because you were their friend and they cared, they weren’t the biggest fans of the gory details, but not Fanboy. He wanted you to tell him everything in great detail, he said you were like a real life superhero and you would take him stroking your ego any day of the week if it meant you got to brag about your cool surgeries.

“Actually yes,” you said, rolling your eyes at Rooster as he set a tequila shot in front of you, but you took it anyway. “We had two patients come in today stuck together… take a guess at how they were stuck.”

“Oh god, superglue?”

You shook your head, “I wish, and honestly so did they. His uh… prince albert hooked onto her IUD during intercourse,” you said and he burst out laughing.

“I’m sorry, what?” Rooster said, and you turned to realize everyone had been listening in.

You nodded, “weirdest x-ray of my life. Wasn’t surgical which was a bummer but I basically acted as their post-coitus cruise director while I watched the imaging and navigated them out.”

“Every time I talk to you I have something new to fear,” Coyote said and you turned to narrow your eyes at him.

“And why would this be something for you to fear? Got some jewelry below the belt, Coyote?” you asked and everyone snickered while he stammered and said no before walking to the bar with his tail between his legs.

“Need a new opponent?” you asked, approaching the pool table as Jake reset and he gave you a small smile as he nodded.

“Could never say no to you, just don’t whine to me when you lose,” he said, passing you a cue and you scoffed.

“You forget who’s dad taught you how to play,” you shot back, giving him a smirk before he let you break. You went back and forth, keeping the game pretty even as you both tried to come out on top and you faltered when you felt your phone ringing in your back pocket, pulling it out to see an incoming call from Jake’s father. You looked up at him as he was surveying the table for his next shot and passed your pool cue to Rooster, “take over for me? I’ll be right back.”

“John? What’s going on?” you answered as you stepped out onto the patio, you were close with Jake’s parents and always had been, but they never called you outside of the time you scheduled every other week to catch up.

“Hey JJ,” he said, and you smiled at the nickname of your nickname he’d given you. “Are you with Jake?”

“Yeah, but I stepped away… is everything okay?” You could feel yourself starting to grow anxious and you tried to tamp it down.

“It’s Mary…” he said and your heart stopped in your chest before taking off in a dead sprint, “it’s uh… well, it’s not good, JJ, and we need you.” He filled you in on everything that had happened, after a few months of horrible migraines their county hospital had finally ordered a head CT which revealed a brain tumor and you could feel anger radiating throughout you. If someone had shown up in your ER several times complaining of persistent headaches the first thing you would have done was order a CT, but that was something for you to deal with later. “The doctors here… they’ve got a pretty good plan but, well we know you’re not a neurosurgeon but didn’t you spend some time in that department as a resident?”

“I did, about two years with Dr. Adams, he was the Head of Neuro… tell her doctors you want digital copies of all of her imaging and send them over to me, I’ll look them over. Jake doesn’t know, does he?” you asked, looking through the window and watching as he laughed with Rooster.

“No… I’m sorry to put all of this on your plate, JJ… we know how busy you are, but I just couldn’t bring myself to do it, and well… you’re a doctor, you know how to tell people things like this.” he said and you understood, though you didn’t necessarily agree. You knew how to tell people things like this, not Jake.

“I’ll tell him and we’ll be on the first flight out, okay? I’ll look over the scans as soon as you send them and I’ll talk with her doctors, we’ll figure this out.” you said before hanging up and you took a moment to yourself to feel your feelings before going in there and shattering Jake’s world. This moment was all you got, you knew what John and Mary were asking of you. They could never keep up with you anytime you talked about work, hell Mary had called you one day to have you help her pick the right cold medicine (when she really needed allergy medicine). This wasn’t their strong suit, and that was okay, but this was different than colds or allergies. You knew they were throwing big words at them and overwhelming them with medical information they weren’t equipped to decipher, and you knew they were asking you to step in to make it all make sense and make decisions on their behalf.

This moment was all you got to feel devastated by the news, to mourn the fact that Mary, someone you considered to be your other mother, was going through something as awful as this. She was who you turned to when you didn’t feel comfortable going to your own mom… she was there when you walked into her bedroom with Jake’s sweater wrapped around your waist asking her what you’re supposed to do about periods, and she was there when you lost your virginity to a boy who didn’t really give a damn about you (or not getting you pregnant) and you needed someone to take you to get the morning after pill. She held your hand tight when Jake shared the news of his acceptance into the Academy and she bought you the stethoscope you still wore around your neck when you graduated from med school. You took a deep breath, straightened your back and wiped your tears. If John and Mary needed you to be a doctor for them right now, then that’s what you would do. You would make sure that she received the best care she possibly could, because that’s what she deserved.

“Jake?” you asked, stepping up to the pool table and he brushed you off for a moment, saying something about securing his win against you and Rooster and you waited, ignoring the way Phoenix and Coyote were looking at you right now. They could tell you had been crying, and they could feel by the energy radiating off of you that something was wrong, and Jake knew it too the second he turned around.

“What is it?”

“You should, uh… you should come with me,” you said, trying to pull him somewhere private but as he looked down at you, his Jupiter who was always so brave and calm in the face of everything, he couldn’t wait another second and you sighed. “I just got off the phone with your dad, your mom has been diagnosed and admitted for a brain tumor, we need to go home.” you said, trying to keep it brief and factual but you knew that wouldn’t help as his face fell. You turned to Coyote who was eagerly awaiting for you to tell him how he could help. “I need you to take him home, get a bag packed. I’m going to call Maverick and my boss, get all of that sorted, and get us booked on the next flight out. I'll be there to get him as soon as we’re ready to go.” you said and he nodded. You wrapped your arms around Jake and whispered in his ear, “it’s going to be okay, I promise.” You kissed his cheek and nodded to Coyote and you felt tears well in your eyes as you watched them go.

“Sit down, take a second,” Bob said, pulling out a chair for you and you let your body be moved by him, you didn’t feel like you were really here, this felt like it was a really bad dream. You felt a hand on your knee and you looked up to see Rooster in front of you.

“Don’t worry about Maverick, I’ll call him and let him know, okay?” he said and you nodded, whispering a thank you as he stepped away.

“What can I do?” Phoenix asked and you nodded to your purse on the table.

“Take my wallet, use the blue card… get us booked on the next flight to Austin?” you asked and she was already on the move. You snapped back to reality and pulled out your phone, calling your Chief and letting him know you needed some personal time and he granted you as much as you needed, and told you he’d have your neurosurgeon on standby if you felt you needed to transfer her. You felt like everything was moving in a blur, you thanked everyone as you grabbed your stuff and left the bar, telling them you’d give them an update when you could and you didn’t even remember what you’d packed, you just knew you’d thrown some stuff in a bag before you parked your car at Jake’s and you don’t think you’d ever experienced silence so suffocating as Coyote drove you to the airport. Jake hadn’t said a word since you’d told him and you couldn’t blame him, you couldn’t really find what to say either and you almost didn’t hear him on the plane when he’d muttered, “I don’t know what to do.”

Your head snapped towards him and you rested a hand on his knee, “you don’t have to do anything. Don’t worry about the medical stuff, I’ll take care of it all… just be there for her,” you said and he nodded softly. “I’m sure she’ll feel a lot better when she sees this handsome face,” you said, resting a hand on his cheek briefly and he cracked a smile. It was small but it was there, and you’d take it. “As soon as we land I’m going to talk with her doctors, figure out what the plan is and we’ll go from there. My Head of Neuro has her scans and is looking them over, and once I figure out what they’re recommending I’m going to talk with Dr. Adams and get his opinion. We’ll transfer her to San Diego or Mass Gen if we have to, but I have a good feeling about this.”

“The golf ball.” he said, and you cocked your head in confusion. “That day I called you in the bar you told me about the golf ball tumor you and Dr. Adams removed, you said you shouldn’t have been able to and you did.”

You nodded, “we did, and hers is a lot smaller… The only concern here is the location.” you said and he nodded.

When you touched down in Austin and made the drive out to the county hospital you did exactly what you said you would. You pulled her doctors into a conference room and went over every inch of her case after Mary gave them permission to loop you in on her care. For two hours you argued, you felt like you were going against a brick wall and the weight resting on your shoulders felt unbearable but you would bear it if it meant it wasn’t on John and Mary… they had sacrificed so much for you and Jake, and Jake… you felt bad leaving him out of this, you were acutely aware of the way he was pacing just outside the door, looking through the small window every so often to try and gauge what was going on but he didn’t need to hear any of this. He didn’t need to hear you call her doctors incompetent, he didn’t need to hear you yell at them over how long it took to order a head CT, he didn’t need to hear you call her tumor complex and smart, and he didn’t need to hear you walk them through how it could be removed.

“With all due respect, you’re a trauma surgeon, not a neurosurgeon, and we’ve elected to follow a course of chemotherapy and radiation,” her doctor, Dr. Franks said and you just rolled your eyes.

“With all due respect, I studied for two years under the Head of Neuro at Mass Gen which as far as I’m concerned makes me a hell of a lot more qualified than you, and you haven’t elected to do anything. The patient has withheld consent on any further treatment until I provide my opinion and in my professional opinion this tumor can be removed,” you argued and he shook his head. You were growing frustrated and you checked your watch, confirming the time in Boston and you dialed Dr. Adams and set your phone on the table as it rang. “Dr. Adams, sorry to cut to the chase but did you receive the scans I sent you?”

“Yes, this tumor is encroaching on Broca’s Area and I don’t like the growth I’m seeing between last week's scan and this week’s, is the patient exhibiting symptoms?”

“None beyond headaches, but we don’t have a lot of time before she does.” You could tell the other doctors in the room were annoyed, and frankly you would be too if a doctor that didn’t work in your hospital barged in guns blazing and criticizing your every move on a case but you also knew that beneath the annoyance you would understand.

“I agree, my main concern here with surgery is damaging the area and impacting her ability to speak but I do think that’s the best way to move forward here.”

“Dr. Franks, would you like to fill Dr. Adams in on your recommended course of treatment?” you asked, gesturing to him as if to say the floor is yours.

“Given the proximity to Broca’s Area we have decided chemotherapy and radiation is the best option for this patient,” he said and you rolled your eyes.

“That’s all you're suggesting? Chemo and radiation will give her maybe another year, and it’ll be the worst year of her life. Jupiter, my recommendation here is to transfer her to UCSD, Dr. Lewis will do it. I’ll make the call for you,” he said and you thanked him as you hung up.

“I’m going to go speak with the patient, but as far as I’m concerned you should start processing her discharge.”

“You can’t just storm in here and order a transfer,” Dr. Franks protested and you scoffed.

“I can when you’re giving your patient a death sentence, process the discharge.” you said, storming out of the room and nearly colliding with Jake.

“J, talk to me. What’s going on?” he asked as you were already halfway down the hallway.

“We’re transferring her to UCSD, I have to go speak with the patient and get her-”

“The patient?” Jake asked in disbelief and you softened, turning back to face him.

“I’m sorry,” you said, placing your hands on his cheeks, “I’m sorry, that was… I just have to refer to her that way right now, your parents want me in charge here and if I’m going to act in her best interest I need to approach this as a doctor.”

He removed your hands from his face but kept a tight grip on them and you could see that he didn’t understand, “that’s not the patient, Jupiter, that’s my mom.” he said, voice breaking.

“I know. Jake, I know who it is, and you don’t have to understand but right now this is about her and what she needs, and she’s asked for me to handle this… I’m sorry, but I do need to go update her on what’s going on,” you said, giving him a pleading look and when you could see it was no use you turned and walked down the hallway towards her room.

“Hey Mary, how are you feeling?” you asked and she gave you a bright smile as you briefly looked over her chart again to read her latest vitals.

“Better now that the two of you are here,” she said, and you looked to the doorway to see Jake leaning against the frame as you sat on the edge of her bed.

“You were gone a long time, what’s the verdict?” John asked.

“We’re setting up a transfer to UCSD,” you said and her eyes widened, “this is not a reflection upon your team here,” it definitely was, “however your tumor is a little more complex than this hospital is used to seeing and I want you getting the best of the best. I think it says a lot about you that even your tumor is wicked smart, which means you need a wicked smart surgeon to take it out and that would be Dr. Lewis, he was actually mentored by my mentor in Boston from that minute I wanted to be a neurosurgeon.” you said and she smiled softly.

“So he’s good?” she asked.

“One of the best, hell I’d even let him cut my head open,” you joked and you smiled when she laughed. “I’m going to check in with my boss in San Diego and see how we’re doing on that transfer, okay?” you asked and she nodded as you made your way to the door.

“Jupiter?” she called, and you stopped as you stood next to Jake and you didn’t miss the way he took a step back, “thank you… for taking care of this. I know how busy you are and I know you must be pulling a lot of strings for me-”

“You hush, Mary.” you said, feeling tears prick at your eyes. “You’re family. Nothing is more important right now,” you said, giving her another smile as you left the room. You felt just slightly reassured at how your colleagues, past and present, were making this as much of a priority to them as it was to you, and you thanked your Chief about a dozen times when he let you know he was sending the hospital’s plane for you and it’d be arriving in a few hours.

“Hey, that plane is designated for medical emergencies and this qualifies. I’m not doing you any favors,” he said and you chuckled.

“You are and you know it, I’ll see you soon.” you said as you hung up and you gave Jake a smile as he approached that wasn’t reciprocated.

“She’s resting… dad went to grab their stuff from the house,” he said and you nodded.

“They’re processing the discharge, we’ll be out of here as soon as the plane gets here,” you said as you sat in one of the waiting room chairs and he followed.

“I’m scared, J,” he said and you turned to fully face him as you pulled his hands into your lap.

“I know, I am too… but we’ve got this, okay? Dr. Lewis is great, I haven’t had a chance to speak with him yet and go through the approach but we’ll make a plan as soon as we land and he’s had a chance to meet with her-”

“Got it.” he said, standing abruptly, “I’m going to go sit with her while we wait.” You let out a sigh and hung your head in your hands for a moment before pulling out your phone and dialing your own mom.

“Sweetheart? It’s early, is everything okay?” she answered and you felt a wave of emotion crash over you.

“Mom…” you started, voice breaking. “I’m home,” you said.

“Home? What do you mean, where are you?” you could already hear her shouting to your father and the jingle of keys in the background.

“I’m at the county hospital with Jake’s family, it’s Mary… I need-” you said, but cut yourself off as your throat grew thick.

“We’ll be there in ten minutes,” she said before disconnecting and you quickly made your way down to the lobby, not wanting to be near his family right now. You paced back and forth, damn near wearing a hole in the tile, and when you heard the hiss of the automatic doors opening and saw your parents for the first time in almost six months you nearly collapsed.

“Oh honey,” your mom said, both of them running over and wrapping themselves around you, sandwiching you between them as you let yourself break.

“Shh, it’s okay, baby,” your dad said as you tried to tell them what was going on. “Just take a deep breath,” he said, pulling away to wipe your tears. You felt like a little kid again, like you were six years old as you wept in your dad’s arms.

“I just… I know I do this every day, I make life and death decisions for people all the time but this is… I mean if we’re wrong? If we’re just a bunch of cocky surgeons playing god and this doesn’t go the way we think it will? I promised them, I broke the one golden rule of medicine and I made promises to people,” you said, succumbing to another wave of tears. “And I can’t do this,” you said, trying to pull yourself together. “I can’t do this up there. Jake’s mad at me because he doesn’t understand why I’m acting like a doctor right now but this… I can’t break down like this because they asked me to be a doctor, I’m supposed to handle this.”

“You’re handling it the best you can,” your mom said, rubbing her hands along your arms soothingly.

“You’re in your pajamas,” you said, letting out a watery laugh. “I woke you, I’m sorry,” you said and your mom let out a soft laugh.

“We were actually watching Jeopardy, did you know they put that on Netflix?” she asked and you laughed again.

“Besides, I don’t care what time it is. You need us, you call,” your dad said and you nodded, leading them to the elevators and telling them they should stop in before you left.

“You’re leaving?” your mom asked as the doors closed.

“Taking her to UCSD,” you answered, “this right here is why I’m working on that rural health program… this could have gone so much smoother, she could have been diagnosed weeks ago.” you said with a sigh, and when the doors opened and Jake turned from looking through the glass window to his mothers room to see the three of you, his face twisting in pain as he looked at your father, you knew he felt like he was a little kid again too. Your dad was down the hall in an instant, wrapping his arms around him as Jake fell apart. What Jake’s mom was to you, your father was to him… he was there for Jake when he couldn’t go to his own dad.

You all sat around Mary’s bed, laughing and catching up, enjoying the fact that the six of you were all in the same place for the first time in years despite the circumstances, and you were currently in a fit of hysterics as you discovered both of your parents had joined a bowling league to fill their time.

“We’re empty nesters! Leave us alone,” Mary protested as you and Jake laughed.

“Do you have matching shoes?” you asked, and you took their silence as a yes. You all said your goodbyes as you prepared to head to the airstrip, and you watched as your parents spoke with his quietly. You were glad they had each other, remained close even when they didn’t have the two of you to force them into each other’s lives. It always helped knowing that while you and Jake were busy saving lives and saving the world, too preoccupied to make it home for every birthday or holiday, they had each other to lean on. As you sat next to Jake’s mom on the plane, not missing the way Jake wasn’t making eye contact as he sat with his father, you felt her nudge your shoulder.

“He’ll get over it,” she said and you gave her a questioning look. “We put a hell of a problem on your plate… and for that I’m sorry, but it’s easier for him to be mad at you right now.”

You nodded, “I know. I want to say I’m used to it because in a way I am… patient’s family members treat me like the enemy all the time… but, I’m not used to him treating me this way.” you said sadly, “but you do not get to be sorry for this. I would have put this on my plate even if you hadn’t asked,” you said, turning to look at her.

“I know. That’s just who you are, Jupiter… you take the brunt of everyone else’s problems so they don’t have to deal with it. John and I are so proud of the woman you’ve become,” she said and you felt tears prick at your eyes. “But right now you need to get some sleep, stop worrying about the problems for now.”

You shook your head, “that’s okay, I’m fine… I was going to go over your case a little more before we land so I’m ready for my meeting with Dr. Lewis,” you said and she just shook her head, pushing the arm rest out of the way and lifting her arm for you.

“Come on, get some rest. You’ve been taking care of me since before you got here, just… let me take care of you for a little while, okay?” she said and you nodded as you curled into her side and you felt like a blanket of security had been wrapped around you when you did. The exhaustion hit you like a freight train, you were realizing now that you hadn’t slept in over a day and as sleep tugged at the edges of your mind you did your best to set aside everything that was going wrong and just trust that it would all work out.

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attapullman · 2 months

Note

Just imagining Neighbor!Bob dropping everything to take you to the airport when a last minute work trip comes up. He loves not having to hide the fact that you’re together, since you’re far enough away from the prying eyes of your nosy neighbors. He drives you right up to the curb of the terminal and takes all your bags out of the car for you, then gives you the little bag of snacks he put together for you—all your favorites. He gives you a long, lingering kiss and tells you he’ll see you as soon as you get home because he’s coming back to pick you up 🥹

Hope you have a safe trip!

- @bradshawsbaby 💕

Neighbor!Bob driving you to the airport is so on brand for him and now I’m sobbing 😭 the most helpful, thoughtful man

Ever since you mentioned leaving town for work the other day, he’s shifted his schedule to accommodate. Leaving base early, pulling up in front of your house and laughing when you dart out like you’re a spy, practically throwing your suitcase in the back and scrambling in the truck before he can even get out and help you. It’s the middle of the day, none of the neighbors are home, but you’re cute with your theatrics.

The entire drive he holds your hand, only letting go to change gears. It’s soothing listening to you go over your schedule the next few days, disappointed that you don’t get to explore the city more, but glad that means you’ll be home sooner.

Once he pulls up to the curb outside Departures, he realizes you’re actually leaving. No waving from the kitchen window for a few days, no late night trips over through the back garden.

He takes your bags out the back and makes sure nothing has fallen out of your personal item, including the snacks he packed last night while you showered. Cups your face with those big hands as he confirms that you have everything.

Despite the chaos that is the drop-off area of San Diego International, he wraps his arms around you with a tight squeeze, committing every curve of your body to memory. Kisses to the top of your head as you remind him you’ll be back before the weekend.

“Have I told you that I’m going to miss you?”

“A few times, but I like the reminders.”

The kiss he gives you makes you yearn to already be back to him, sweet and firm and full of love. The soft press of his lips as he reminds himself you’re in public, but also needs to make sure you come back to him and happy to give you incentive.

You’d probably have missed your flight if he had his way, but the traffic controller starts whistling for him to move on and keep the drop-off area clear. Robert reluctantly releases you, squeezing your hip as you grab all your bags.

“Bye, I love you!”

Your eager wave is the last thing he sees before you’re swallowed by the crowd.

#made myself cry with this one #bradshawsbaby 🪩#neighbor!bob

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startrekfangirl2233-writes · 1 year

Text

2019 - Miramar, California

Chapter 1 of You Are My Soulmate

Bradley 'Rooster' Bradshaw x Reader

Description:

It's been eight years since you received your soul markers on your twenty-first birthday. In that time, your life has changed a lot. You've established your career as an Aviation Maintenance Duty Officer and traveled all over the world. You've also made friends in Naval Bases all over the world. But after years of travel, you're excited for the chance to prove yourself on solid ground working out of Naval Air Base North Island. North Island brings you the chance to connect with some old friends and meet someone who you're immediately drawn to.

Bradley's never thought he would want to find his soulmate, not when he's seen so much of the bad parts of being connected to your soul. But after his close calls during the Uranium Mission, he's craving that connection. He's instantly drawn to this girl he helps at the Hard Deck. But his reaction is anything but great when he sees how close she is to Hangman. Why is he so drawn to her then? Can he avoid her while she's stationed out of Miramar?

Disclaimers: Misogynistic speech. Excessive alcohol consumption. Mentioned Homosexual Relationships

This content presented in this story is for audiences age 18 and over only. MINORS DNI. I will not be accepting tag-list requests from Blank or Ageless Blogs for this story.

Warnings: Female!Reader

Word Count: 7477

A/N: Hey All! Welcome to the first official chapter of You Are My Soulmate! We're going to see sparks fly, literally and figuratively between Bradley and Tinkerbell in this part. It's not good sparks, I'm sorry to have to report. Bradley is incredibly rude and chauvinistic and misogynistic in this part. He's also incredibly confused because his heart and his mind are telling him two different things. I hope you guys enjoy! Thanks to @girl-in-the-chairs-void and @sarahsmi13s for all of your help proof-reading and giving me feedback on this chapter! You both are the best!

AO3: Cross-posted Here!

My Masterlist

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Tinkerbell

A wave of heat greets you as you leave San Diego International Airport with everything you own in three colossal suitcases piled on an airport trolley in front of you. The heat feels incredible against your skin, causing a near-instant sheen of sweat to collect on the backs of your knees, your forehead, and the back of your neck. Your thin sweater and cuffed jeans were appropriate for battling wind shear on an aircraft carrier, but they're a bit much for San Diego. You strip the thin outer garment off and stuff it into your purse, fishing out a pair of sunglasses and basking in the sun while searching through your messages to see when your ride is meeting you.

"Tink! Over here!"

You grin when you see him, obnoxious though he may be, and push the precariously piled trolley up to him.

"Hey, Cowboy! How are you?"

If you'd told your younger self that Jake Seresin would become one of your closest friends, she'd have laughed and laughed before calling him a Cowboy Ken Doll to his face.

"Aren't you a sight for sore eyes?" He looks good, golden and tanned, and the same as ever, even as new smile lines crinkle the corners of his eyes as he smiles sunnily at you.

"Stop flirting, Cowboy. Shut up and hug me."

His embrace feels like you’re finally home. You follow him to the tailgate as he hefts all three of your colossal suitcases in. Jake won’t let you lift a finger to help. You know it from experience, so you stay propped against the side of his truck and soak up the sun a bit longer. It’s an easy silence for a few moments as he settles your luggage.

"How's being back in San Diego treating you so far, Tink?"

Your groan as you settle into the plush, buttery soft leather of his F-150's seats is near pornographic. You prop your feet on his dash and grin at his heatless glare.

"I missed the sun. I've been stuck in the bowels of an aircraft carrier for the past three years. And I've only been stateside long enough to clear out my base housing and fly here. I swear the ground still feels like it's rocking. And don't get me started on the food and the lack of company."

"Well, that's not a feeling you’ll forget anytime soon. But you're in Miramar now, baby!"

His smile is salacious as he smirks at you from the driver's seat.

"And you've got this amazing specimen,” he gestures to himself greasily, “to show you all the best food troughs and watering holes."

You yank his sunglasses off of his nose and tip your own down so you can groan and shudder theatrically in disgust.

"Never." You shove at his forearm lightly, "Never call yourself an amazing specimen ever again. Eww. That gives me the heebie-jeebies."

Leaving the airport, the two of you are immediately in traffic, just as you remember from the last time you were in San Diego. But you're home, so even the traffic feels oddly welcoming. And you haven't seen your best friend in months, so you're happy to talk about his family, soul, and how Miramar has been. The two of you chat about anything and everything, pausing to scream-sing the lyrics to some of the songs playing until the traffic breaks.

"Alright, alright. So what's in the cards for you tonight?" Jake's teeth shine in the sunlight as he grins at you, looking like the cat that got the canary.

"Well…. I gotta take a good look at my cars and bikes, and I need to make sure you haven't trashed my house while you've been here. God knows why I let you take care of it while you’ve been stationed out of North Island."

"Your house is just fine, Tinkie. I even weeded your garden beds over the weekend."

"You?!" You're grinning, relaxing in the company of your best friend, "Weeding a garden?! Since when? I wasn't aware you'd figured out the business end of a trawl since the last time you tried 'helping' me garden."

He's grinning a smug self-absorbed grin when you look at him.

"Well, maybe I got a bit of help from Mav."

You're gawping unflatteringly at him as you let your feet land back in the footwell of his truck with a harsh thump.

"You're telling me you got Maverick Mitchell, the living piloting legend, to help weed my garden?! And he agreed?!"

"Yeah. Mav's not so bad, Tink. He's a great person. And he lives up to his reputation. He made it a squad team-bonding event! He's crazy. He has a few motorcycles and cars himself. And he restored a P-51."

"No way!" You're giddy. "Have you seen it? Is it gorgeous?! I will literally die if you've been up in it."

“It’s beeee-yootiful!” God, he’s so smug, his Texan drawl stretching each syllable. It’s nice to see he hasn’t changed at all in the years since you’ve seen him.

"That settles it. Come Monday morning, I'm driving my Kawasaki to work."

“Somebody’s a fangirl.”

“Jake! C’mon! Seriously! The man’s a living legend. He’s larger than life! He’s quite literally the best of the best. Other than you, he was the only other active-duty pilot with air-to-air kills. The way he flies a plane? It’s pure poetry. I’ve only seen him fly once, but I might swoon if he’s in one of the planes I will maintain on base.”

“Just wait until you have to call him “Admiral Mitchell, sir!” and salute when you’re introduced to him. I will bet you 15 bucks that you can’t do it without making a fool of yourself.” He’s so sure you’re going to make a fool of yourself.

“Make it 50, and I get to pick the punishment when I win.”

“You’ve got a deal, Tinkerbell.” He’s smiling smugly as he pulls the car into your driveway.

You step out into the sun and stretch, grinning at how good it feels to be home. You’d fallen in love with the cutest mid-century bungalow on the beach years ago when you’d been stationed on North Island shortly after graduating from all your qualifying courses. The sweetest old couple owned it, and you’d audaciously dropped by one afternoon offering your help. They’d treated you like their granddaughter, as they didn’t have any children or grandchildren, and you’d loved them too.

It had broken your heart when a lawyer contacted you during one of your early deployments, informing you that they had passed away in their sleep. You had sobbed on the phone as you found out they had left you their house. Since that day, you’ve been trying to live like that lovely old couple. They were each other’s soulmates and had adored each other from the day they met to the day they died. You’d kept the house, hoping it would be as lovely to you and your soul as it was to the two of them. It was now your home base every time you were stateside, and now where you’re fortunate enough to be living long-term for the first time since you inherited it.

You can feel your life slot back into place, the exhaustion and stress of being onboard an aircraft carrier for so long melting away as you step into your home.

"I'll set your bags in the master bedroom. You stink, Tinkie. Go shower, and then I'll buy you dinner and take you out for drinks." You roll your eyes at the mock disgust on his face when you’re sure he’s smelled much worse.

"Love you, Jay!" You blow smooches into the air, pretending not to notice how he staggers dramatically, catching them before walking into the bathroom and sloughing the filth of travel, and Naval ship showers off your skin. You take your time in the shower, exfoliating and shaving every inch of your skin while deep conditioning your hair. You step out of your bathroom, garbed in a soft fluffy robe with your hair finally in fluffy soft waves down your back.

“Hey, Jay?” You yell out your bedroom door. “Where are we going for dinner?”

“How do you feel about tacos? Wear something casual. And for god’s sake, not your uniform. Give that a break until you need to wear it again on Monday.” You can hear a football game from your living room and are glad he wasn’t bored while you spent an inordinately long time in the shower.

“Kay!” You chirp back, going through your closet and fishing out one of the sundresses you’d left in San Diego the last time you shipped out. It’s a flirty number with a flared skirt covered in a raucous floral print. It’s perfect for a summer night out with your best friend. You pair it with a set of cork espadrilles and throw your hair into a fishtail braid before flouncing out the door with your phone and wallet in a little bag.

The both of you are stuffing your faces at this little Taqueria downtown with the best tacos you've had since you were in Mexico when Jake picks up the catch-up conversation again.

"So?" He's grinning, his eyes glinting mischievously as he asks, "Did you find them? Did you find your soul?"

"No. There hasn't been a single person I've met who I've felt drawn to."

"Are you sure you didn't just hide away from the whole world like you do when you get all shy, Tinkie?"

"Urgh…. Fuck you. Not everyone has known their soulmate since they were fourteen years old." You steal a bite of his barbacoa tacos in compensation for that uncalled-for comment.

"Fair enough." Jake crumbles his napkin up after eating his last taco in two bites. He takes a long draft from the bottle in his hand. "What marks do you have again?"

"I have five." You glare playfully at his wolf whistle. "A scent: Sandalwood, a few features: auburn hair, whiskey eyes, and big calloused hands, a song: Tramp by Otis Redding; and an occupation and an important item. I'm not sure which is which. I have fighter jets and an antique blue truck."

Jake's thoughtful as you number each mark on your fingers, lips pursing with each item until you reach the last.

"And, what, Tink, would you say if I tell you that I might know exactly who your soulmate is?"

"I mean… I already promised to love you forever the day I met you. And I apologized to Javy for that, so what more could you need?"

"You buying my drinks at the Hard Deck every time we're both there for a month."

"Deal. Are we heading there now?"

"Yup. It'll give you a chance to meet the squadron you're working with and meet who I think is your soulmate."

You can feel butterflies and excitement swarming in your chest. This feels like everything you've been waiting for. Are you really going to meet your soul tonight? You'll happily pay for Jake's drinks for the rest of your life to pay him back for this if he's right.

You can already see yourself falling head over heels for your soul. It’s your dream to start a relationship with your soul and become better people together. You can also see yourself growing round with your soul's children, his ring on your finger. And you can only imagine how amazing it will be to spend those late-night feedings exhausted but so in love with each other and the babies you brought to life together. Finally, you can see the two of you growing old together and watching proudly as your babies grow into gorgeous adults. And you can see yourself sitting in twin rocking chairs in the house that became a home for you both, with your children and grandchildren arrayed around you.

The sweet ache of your dreams intensifies as Jake chivalrously leads you into the bar. It's packed in the Hard Deck, despite being only a little past 8 o’clock. You're craning your head to see if you can spot anyone you know or recognize. You can feel a sense of anticipation sink into your veins. Tonight more than ever, you feel like your soul is nearby. You’re thankful for Jake’s broad frame as he charts a course directly to the bar where a familiar face is holding court.

"Well, well, well, look at you, Missy! Long time no see, gorgeous!" She still sounds the same as she did three years ago. If anything, she’s lighter and happier than the last time you saw her.

"Penny!" You stretch over the bartop to hug the older woman. Penny was like a mom to you the last time you were on North Island. "Can I get you your usual?"

"Yes, please!" You yell back, straining your vocal cords to be heard. Your drink is prepared in short order, and you grin approvingly as you take a sip.

"Let's catch up later?" You mouth over the crowd, smiling at her signal for a-ok before following Jake towards a rowdy bunch near the pool tables. He's already trash-talking the players, and you elbow him in the gut to remind him you're there.

"Lady and gents, this is Tinkerbell. She just got into town today and will be stationed with us at North Island for a while." He winces and rubs at his stomach before pointing each squadron member out to you by callsign.

"It's nice to meet you all!" It's no time before you chat with Jake's squadron like you've known them forever. It helps that Javy is there, and you can squish your best friend's soul in a ridiculously long hug. It's never been this easy to talk to a squadron whose planes you'll be working on before. Your drink runs out far sooner than expected, and you fight back to the bar for a refill.

You're humming tunelessly and trying to avoid being crushed when a hand smacks down onto the bartop next to you. A body follows it, and you're automatically preparing to fend off whatever flirty bullshit this stranger will lay on you.

"That's a fantastic song."

Okay, that's not what you were expecting. You turn your head and see dark eyes and curls like in your soul mark. He's wearing an obnoxiously loud Hawaiian shirt and has a mustache from an eighties porn flick. But his voice? You could melt into a pool of primordial goop just at the feeling of his voice in your eardrums. And he likes your song clue too. You're not doing it any justice, but he'd still heard and recognized it.

"Yeah, it is. I heard it a long time ago."

"What's a pretty girl like you doing in a Navy bar?" He’s smirking now. There's the flirting you expected. You can’t help your eye roll as he tries and fails to charm you.

"I'm out with some friends. Came up to the bar to get a refill on my drink."

"Hey, Bradley!" It's Penny again. So she knows this guy. Maybe he's not a creep.

"Hey, Pen. I'll take a beer and whatever this pretty girlie drinks on my tab."

"Pen, I'll take my drink on my tab. Thank you very much," is your quick rejoinder.

He lifts his hands to placate you before going back to standing stylishly against the bar. You can feel his eyes on you as you order your refill, and you're constantly self-conscious of every word pouring out of your mouth. And speaking of your mouth, is your lipstick smeared out of place? You've just ascertained that everything looks good in a napkin holder when things get frantic in the bar.

There's yelling and screaming, but no matter how you search, you can’t see what is happening. Soon, Penny's ringing the bell, and the crowd surges around you. When you’re sure you’ll get trampled in the rush, hands are on your waist, helping you until you're perched on a barstool. The stranger leaves his hands on your waist for several long moments. You're barely breathing. With each shallow breath you take, you can feel the heat of his big hands searing into your skin. You can see the flashes of gold in his whiskey eyes this close to him.

The intense urge to kiss him surprises you. Your mark containing your soul's physical features and song is checked off, but you're still unsure if he's your soul. But you desperately want to kiss this cocky, gorgeous stranger. You feel this intense ache to feel his mustache press against your skin and numb your lips as he kisses you wantonly, urgently. More than your neck and lips, you want to know what his mouth feels like against your cunt. How that mustache would feel against your tender flesh as you scream for his talented tongue. Those hands propped so innocently against your waist? You want them everywhere too.

You're shaken out of your reverie by the crowd's repeated chanting of 'Overboard'. And then the hands clasped around your waist withdraw. Just as you're about to say something, anything to hear that beautiful voice again, you hear Jake calling for you. You wave to catch his attention. Jake comes bounding up just as you hop down from the stool.

"Hey, Tink. Are you alright?" He pulls you into a tight hug, and you'd accuse him of being smothering had you not known how much he cares.

"I just saw the crowd rush the bar, and Phoenix said you'd come for another drink." You can see the worry on his face as he finally releases you and steps back.

"Yeah, I nearly was. But this guy saved me. He hauled me onto a barstool and kept me from getting jostled there until the chaos died." You turn in place to thank the stranger for his help, but he's not there anymore. "I wonder where he went? I wanted to buy him a drink to thank him." Your drink stands on the bar top, but the beer he ordered? It’s gone, leaving only a ring of condensation on the wood.

"I have one more member of the squadron for you to meet. C'mon. Grab your drink and follow me." Jake's vibrating out of his skin. You haven't seen him this excited since he introduced you to Javy as his soulmate, not just his wingman.

He pushes you by the shoulders to the pool tables again, keeping up a stream of funny stories that make you giggle. That’s when your heart seems to start beating in double time. A familiar broad-shouldered silhouette is propped up against one of the pool tables, a beer held languidly in two fingers of one big hand as he laughs.

Jake pushes you towards the pool tables, and when he's determined you're close enough, he wraps an arm around your shoulder.

"Oi, Rooster. This here is Tinkerbell. She will be working with the squadron as one of the Aviation Maintenance Duty Officers. Tink, this is Rooster, Lieutenant Bradley Bradshaw."

"We met earlier. Thanks for the save back there when things got crazy."

The warmth in Bradley's eyes at the bar seems to have completely drained away. He's not smiling anymore and definitely not flirting when he responds, "Good to meet you." gruffly back at you.

The hope you felt at the song and his eyes, hair, and hands sinks like a lead balloon. An awkward silence falls over the pool table, punctuated only by the low clicking as the Jukebox switches the song playing. You’re more than a little taken aback. Bradley Bradshaw had seemed so nice at the bar. Flirty, sure, but nice. You’d enjoyed the joy sliding effervescent through your veins at each word you spoke. Jake pulls you towards the dart table.

"That's the guy I thought would be your soul. No luck?"

"I thought I felt the spark earlier, but no luck."

You're confused, but ultimately, chalk the electricity you felt to your exhaustion and the heat inside the bar. The rest of the night is easy and light. You're going to have fun working with the Dagger Squadron. And the atmosphere stays that way until you hear Rooster's conversation with Payback and Fanboy as you walk back toward the pool tables after a stop at the restroom.

"So? What do you think of her, Rooster?" It's Payback who asks that.

"Come on. There is no way she's a good Aviation Maintenance Duty Officer. She's all over Hangman. What a slut." His voice has a cruel slur as he spits out the words.

"She does seem close to him." That's Fanboy, you think.

"Hah. Even if they're soulmates, I doubt there is a single thought in that little head. I bet she got here on her knees."

They laugh, and that's officially when the night sours for you. The first time you meet Rooster and he's already decided to hate you. You haven't gotten here on your knees. The accusation disgusts you. Why had you come out with Jake tonight? If only Bradley Bradshaw had stayed a handsome stranger. Maybe then you wouldn't feel like your heart was ripped from your chest and stomped on.

You walk towards the bar, thinking about his words. They hurt more than you’d expect, considering how you’ve heard many variations of them before. A particular class of Navy men hates that a woman knows the ins and outs of a plane better than them. You’ve been victim to the nonsense spewing out of those men’s mouths before. And you thought you’d formed a thick skin and knew how to handle it. In hindsight, you should’ve known it would take only one devastatingly handsome man’s ill-thought words to tear down all your inner strength and confidence.

You’re startled out of your thoughts when a drunken sailor nearly knocks you over as you walk. He’s heavy but oh so warm. You look up, wanting to know if the sailor is okay, and see none other than the man you’ve been thinking about for much of the night. Bradley Bradshaw sends the same electricity singing through your veins as he steadies himself with those big hands on your waist yet again.

“Tinkerbell. You okay? I didn’t mean to run into you like that.” He’s drunk. He’s completely and totally drunk. You can smell the beer seeping from his pores and something woodsy and delicate that you can’t place. How can he act like his words didn’t flay you open? You can feel rage course through you at the clumsy way he’s patting you down to ensure you’re alright.

You brush his hands off your person and nearly growl at him, “Why? I’m just another garden-variety slut, right? The only way I got to where I am in my career is on my knees, right? You don't need to apologize if that’s what you think.” Rage and pain sit hot in your chest as you spit his words back to him.

He looks taken aback, something unknown swimming in his eyes as his throat works. But before he can flay you open again, you walk away. You’re thankful now that you’d settled up your tab with Penny before you headed to the restrooms. You're quick to leave after that, the alcohol in your system magnifying your anger and pain until you're lost to it. Outwardly, you smile and say your goodbyes to everyone in the squadron before telling Jake you’ll meet him and Javy in the morning for brunch and book a ride-share home.

You can’t help meditating on what you heard in the car and vow that on Monday, you'll be perfectly professional, even if every time you look at Bradley Bradshaw, you'll feel the pressure and heat of his hands on your waist. That's the part that bothers you about this whole thing. It had felt electric having him that close, at least for you. But there is no way he's your soul, right? He's too much of an asshole for that. Why else would he have said what he said?

Rooster

There is nothing like the feeling of being up in the air, going faster than the speed of sound. Many people work hard for their careers, and he’s had to do that too. But Bradley Bradshaw maintains that he was born to fly. It’s in his blood. After all, his dad, Uncle Mav, and other uncles flew. So it’s no wonder that he’s one of the best of the best. And he’s on an elite squad hand-selected by the Navy to fly those missions that nobody else can. Things are finally looking up. His career is excellent. He’s connected with his Uncles again. He’s part of a squad that works like a well-oiled machine. Only one thing could improve his life: if he weren’t so lonely.

Bradley Bradshaw has always been the life of the party. So why does it hurt nowadays after the party ends and he’s staggering half-drunk into the apartment he’s been given on base? Sure, he’s not lacking companionship. All it takes is a flirty wink, a couple of notes on the piano, and scores of badge bunnies appear ready and willing to drop everything to get into his bed. Getting his dick wet has never been so dull. All those girls flirt the same. They moan the same at the exact same times, and they always, always, always cum the same way.

So sue him. He is over thirty years old, and he's bored with everything in his life except for flying. And even with the squad, they do the same things nearly every night. Most of the squad has found their soulmates. So when they aren’t out with their soulmates, the whole crew is clustered around the pool tables at the Hard Deck. On Saturdays, he heads to the hangar in the desert with Mav to work on the P-51. Sometimes Penny and Amelia are around, sometimes not. And Sunday night is dinner with his Uncles. That's been his life since Mav crashed back into his life with the Uranium Mission. And every workday is full of flying, the high-octane rush of it the only time he feels alive.

It’s a Friday night like any other as he rifles through his closet for a Hawaiian shirt. The squadron had finished their hop debrief for the day and made plans to meet at the Hard Deck at half past 8. It is just about 8:45, and that is typical too. He's always late, and once he’s at the bar, he always downs a beer or two and then plays a few songs on the piano before taking whichever badge bunny catches his fancy home.

At least San Diego never fails to disappoint. It's gorgeous out. Bradley's sunglasses are on, and the wind whips through his hair as he drives his Bronco to the bar. If there's one thing he loves more than flying, it's driving this car. The one his dad left him. It's one of the only places he has left where he can be Bradley Bradshaw, not Rooster or Lieutenant Bradshaw.

There's something funky playing on the radio as he drives up to the Hard Deck, and it lifts his mood just a little. It's that old Otis Redding tune, Tramp, and he can't help the swagger in his hips as he walks into the bar. It's packed tonight, and people are dancing, chatting, and laughing from wall to wall. He can feel a strange electricity in the air, and everything feels different tonight. He can’t place what about the Hard Deck looks different, though. It looks like the same sea of Navy Personnel and badge bunnies, both male and female, milling about with alcohol in hand. Amidst the crush of bodies, he finally grasps something new. There’s a glimpse of brightly patterned fabric against the bar, colorful and flower printed. It’s like sunshine on a cloudy day.

He can feel the stretch of his muscles bunching underneath his jeans as he walks towards the bar. Each stride is nearly smooth, except for the catch in his leg, which broke years ago and still twinges when it’s damp out. It’s several moments before he sees that captivating colorful glimpse, though. It’s a girl, though a woman would be a better descriptor, wearing a floral printed sundress. The bodice clings to her figure, and the skirt is full, flaring out to just below her thigh and revealing miles of supple leg ending in wedge sandals. Her glistening hair looks thick and soft as it lies in a braid, something finicky and delicate that he couldn’t name if he tried. Could this be her? His soulmate? With only two soul marks, there is no way she could be his.

She’s humming. It’s not the most tuneful rendition, but it is instantly recognizable regardless, Otis Redding’s Tramp. Bradley lumbers forward, laying his hand heavily on the bar top beside her while waiting for Penny to make the rounds. His actions get her attention, and he’s at the mercy of big doe eyes as they glance right up at him. But she’s not coy like other girls are when he’s next to them. She looks like she’d do anything besides talk to him.

"That's a fantastic song."

Bradley can see the warring emotions behind those beautiful doe eyes as she tries to figure out how to respond.

"Yeah, it is. I heard it in a dream a long time ago." Her voice is sweet and soft but with a backbone of steel. And those expressive, expressive eyes. He can read exactly what she’s thinking in those eyes.

“What’s a pretty girl like you doing in a Navy bar?”

Her eyes roll, her plush lips pursing and nose crinkling as she realizes he’s flirting.

"I'm out with some friends. Came up to the bar to get a drink."

"Hey, Bradley!" It's Penny who interjects. She must know this pretty girl and feels strongly about protecting her too. Bradley's on the business side of a glare like he hasn't received from her since he was eight years old and being babysat by Penny while his mom was running errands.

"Hey, Pen. I'll take a beer and whatever this pretty girl drinks on my tab."

"Pen, I'll take my drink on my tab. Thank you very much." She's beautiful and quick as a whip. Bradley resolves to stay on her good side. This girl will not accept any free drinks. Bradley lifts his hands placatingly in her direction, taking long glances at the slope of her nose and the shape of her burgundy-stained lips as she gives Penny her drink order, something fruity and sweet.

That's about when things turn upside down in the bar. A fight breaks out at some of the tables. He can barely see the drunken idiots going at it from where he’s propped against the bar. There's yelling and screaming, and Penny quickly rings the bell. The crowd surges around the bar, and he makes an executive decision. He hoists the pretty little thing he's been trying to chat up and plops her down on the bar stool in front of him, using his body as a barrier. She's staring at him in shock now. Those pretty, plush lips are parted just enough for him to glance at her tongue.

He has this sudden intense urge to kiss her, to taste the residue of sugar-laden liquor on that perfect pink-stained mouth and tongue. Bradley wants to do more than kiss her, too. He has a sudden flash of those gorgeous eyes teary as those plush lips wrap around his cock. He wants to feel the weight of her pert breasts in his hands, to make those pretty little hands grasp his hair as she screams his name. He's never felt like this with anyone before. And he finds that he's embarrassingly growing hard just at the thought of her.

Her skin is soft and hot through the thin fabric of her dress as his hands rest in the dip of her waist. Her chest heaves with each shallow breath as she looks at him. He’s just about to tell her his name, ask her what she’s thinking, or do anything to hear another word out of that pretty mouth when the cry of ‘Overboard’ fills the bar. It looks like the men who had been fighting are getting thrown out. That’s when he realizes his hands have been around this girl’s waist for far too long. He steps back with his throat dry as he lifts his hands from around her. He can still feel her against the pads of his fingers as he flexes his hands uselessly at his sides.

The bar is soon back to normal around him. Penny drops off her drink and his beer, and as he grabs his drink and turns back to the pretty girl, he can hear Hangman calling for her. Her eyes are wide with recognition, and she waves at him. So she’s Hangman’s something, though he’s not sure friend is the best term. Bradley slips away just as Hangman reaches her, drawing her into a protective embrace.

The jolt of irritation that shoots through him at the sight is filled with something uncomfortably close to jealousy. He can feel something nasty crawling out his chest at the sight of the sweetest girl he's ever spoken to being swept up in Bagman's arms. The worst part is that she looks like she belongs there. Bagman'd bragged unendingly about his soulmate before. This must be her. It figures that she’s got a soul already. That her soul is Bagman is just salt in another open wound. He takes a swig from the cold bottle in his hand and turns his back on the sight, moving through the crowd to the pool tables. Phoenix and Bob are trouncing Payback and Fanboy in a game of nine-ball, and it’s looking to be just like any other Friday night the squad has had since it became permanent.

He’s brooding, and the squad can no doubt sense the suddenly foul mood seeping from his pores. Outwardly, he's trying, really trying to keep it from showing in his tone. Sure, she's Hangman's. That just means that his soul has to be out there, right? He still remembers the pact he'd made in that hospital bed years ago when he’d gotten his marks. Would his younger self begrudge his need to find the person who's right for him? It's exhausting having to play a part day in and day out. Even with Mav, he can't let his guard down. Bradley’s not even sure when he started looking for his soul in earnest or when the revolving door of girls got stale and boring.

All he knows is that one day he woke up and wanted everything his mom and dad had. He wants happiness like the time before Top Gun when it was just the three Bradshaws and his Uncle Mav. All the light and love and happiness. Neither his mom nor his dad had any family left before they died. He’s it. He’s the last of their lines. And after his close calls over the past few months, he never wants to feel like he’s at the end without a soul who loves him ever again. He just has to find her and hope she can love him despite his life's mess and stress.

Hangman pulls him out of his reverie by pushing his girl toward the rest of them. She grins at him, and he can hear her giggles as Hangman drapes an arm around her shoulder, drawing her into his side.

"Oi, Rooster. This here is Tinkerbell. She will be working with the squadron as one of the Aviation Maintenance Duty Officers. Tink, this is Rooster, Lieutenant Bradley Bradshaw."

"We met earlier. Thanks for the save back there when things got crazy." God, her voice still sounds so good, melodic, and sweet. But, the nasty little voice in his head screams at him, ‘She’s not yours. She’ll never be yours. What about you could a sweet little thing like that want?’. The irritation ever-present since he realized she’s Bagman’s soul colors his tone as he nearly barks, “Good to meet you.” back at her.

He can see a little of the joy shutter in those doe eyes and immediately kicks himself for making her feel that way. An uncomfortable hush surrounds the tables. He can feel eyes on him. Hangman’s, Bob’s, and definitely Phoenix’s. He takes a swig of his beer, but before he can apologize or ease the hush, he’s dragged away by an incandescently incensed firebird.

“What the fuck was that, Bradshaw?” He’s pissed Tasha off. He hadn’t seen her this angry since Hangman left her and Bob behind while they were training for the Uranium Mission.

“I dunno, Tash.”

“Well, you better figure it out. Tinkerbell’s going to be working with us. You don’t fuck with the girl who maintains your plane, birdbrain. Not unless you want to be falling out of the sky.” Bradley can’t argue with her reasoning as she steals his beer and saunters back to the pool tables.

The worst part is that Tinkerbell doesn't even seem to care that she's set his whole world on fire. She's laughing and giggling with Jake and Javy by the dartboard as they take turns covering her eyes and showing her how to throw the dart accurately despite being unable to see. It's a shot he's seen Bagman make about a billion times, but he can't stand seeing their hands on her skin.

For the rest of the night, he's acutely aware of exactly where she is. It's like he's orbiting her, and he makes it a point to stay as far away from her as possible. But no matter what he does, he can’t make the nasty feeling in his chest disappear. Tinkerbell fits in so easily with the rest of the team. She’s laughing with Phoenix and has even pulled Bob out of his shell more gracefully than Hangman had all those months ago. But no matter how he tries, Bradley can’t force himself to be nice to her. So he makes what is probably the worst decision he’s made all night and starts knocking alcohol back. Bradley’s indiscriminate about what he drinks. He does shots of Tequila with Phoenix and then knocks back beers with Fanboy and Bob shortly after.

A few hours after he’s started drinking in earnest later, he’s feeling loose, and that knot in his chest is fading at least a little bit. Payback and Fanboy are laughing in a corner by the windows, and he wants to know what they’re laughing about. It’s a struggle to make his legs move, and he nearly bowls Fanboy over in his clumsy journey to laugh with them.

“Woah, Roos! Man, you’re so drunk!” Fanboy’s always a giggly mess when he’s been drinking. Tonight is no different. He and Fanboy are propped carefully against each other, giggling unendingly when Payback shoves a glass of water into each of their hands. Payback waits until both Fanboy and he have downed the water and sobered up a little before asking his question. "So? What do you think of her, Rooster?"

“Think’a who?” He’s slurring as he speaks, fighting back juvenile giggles as Fanboy makes silly faces next to him.

“Tinkerbell, Bradshaw. Y’know, the girl you haven’t been able to keep your eyes off of all night?”

“Oh, her.” Bradley’s so drunk he’s looking for her again. He can’t see her patterned sundress or her pretty hair or her sweet smile or melodic laugh anywhere. But he does see Hangman with his eyes alert, watching for her.

“Bradshaw. What do you think of her?” Payback’s trying to keep his drunken self on track. Bless him.

“She’s beautiful. But, come on. There is no way she's a good Aviation Maintenance Duty Officer. She's all over Hangman. What a slut." His voice has a cruel turn as he slurs out the words.

“Aren’t you being a little harsh, man? You don’t even know her. So what if she’s close to Hangman? That doesn’t make her a slut.”

"She does seem close to him." Fanboy is finally tracking a little bit of the conversation.

"Hah. Even if they're soulmates, I doubt there is a single thought in that little head. I bet she got here on her knees." He can feel his sense of balance reel just a little as he turns away.

He staggers through the bar looking for Penny to close out his tab and get more water. That’s when he makes contact with the one person he’s been trying to avoid all night. He nearly bowls her over, too, in his overeager drunken haze.

“Tinkerbell. You okay? I didn’t mean to run into you like that.”

He can't resist dragging his hands up and down her soft waist as he looks into her eyes. Those expressive eyes look hurt and are swimming with barely suppressed tears.

“Why? I’m just another garden variety slut, right? The only way I got to where I am in my career is on my knees, right? You don't need to apologize if that’s what you think.” It hurts hearing that gorgeous voice sound so rough. His hands sting from where she’d slapped them away.

His throat is inexplicably dry again. But Tinkerbell’s gone before he apologizes or says anything to redeem himself. Well, he’s not sure what he would have said anyways. He staggers to the bar, accepts the glass of water Penny hands him, and looks drunkenly at the squadron as they continue to have fun without him. He catches glimpses of Tinkerbell as she says what looks to be her goodbyes and flounces out the door.

“Bradley, hey, kiddo.” When did Penny get here? “D’you want me to call Mav to take you home?”

He can’t find the words to reply, alcohol weighing his tongue as he fights to talk about everything he’s been feeling tonight. Penny must have decided to call Mav anyways because the next thing he sees when he opens his eyes is Mav in front of him. He’s speaking, but it takes a few moments for Bradley to identify what he’s saying.

“Hey, Baby Goose. Penny called me. She said you needed a ride. D’you have your wallet and the keys to the Bronco?”

“Yeah, Mav.” He fishes the keys out and hands them to his uncle. It’s a bit of a struggle to get out the door, and he can’t help babbling at his uncle and one of the only dads he’s ever known as he staggers out the door propped against his shoulder.

“She was so pretty, Mav.”

“Who, Baby Goose?” Mav sounds confused, and Bradley can’t keep the goofy look off his face as he incoherently talks about Tinkerbell and how much he loves how she looks.

“Why do you like her so much, Brad?” Mav’s still trying to make his words make sense, and the more lucid part of Bradley’s brain understands exactly why. “She feels like what you told me it felt like when you met Uncle Ice. And what you told me Dad felt like when he met Mama.” Having a life like his parents, it's all he can think about, even when he’s blazingly drunk.

It’s quiet in the car as Mav drives him back onto the Naval base and towards his off-base quarters. That silence continues until Mav’s gotten him into his apartment and onto his bed. And that’s when the rest of the story spills out of him.

“But she’s Hangman’s, Mav. Why does she feel like she should be mine if she’s Hangman’s?”

“I dunno, Baby Goose.” His uncle’s running his fingers through his hair like he used to when Bradley was a kid and had a nightmare. “Maybe there’s more going on there than you know? Try to get to know her without assuming she’s someone else’s soul. Try to get to know this girl as she is, and maybe you’ll find that she’s what you need when you least expect it.”

“But what if she wants nothing to do with me?” Bradley’s not surprised to hear a tremor in his voice as he asks that one final question. Sleep’s already pulling on every sense as he fights to stay awake.

“Just be yourself, Bradley. And if you’ve truly done so much damage in one night that you can’t get past, then there’s nothing you can do but hope.” That’s the last thing Bradley remembers before he falls asleep, and he hopes he’ll be able to do what his uncle says the next time he sees her.

I DO NOT CONSENT TO HAVE MY WORK POSTED, TRANSLATED, OR PUBLISHED ON ANY SITES OTHER THAN HERE OR ON AO3 BY ME. IF YOU SEE MY WORKS ANYWHERE OTHER THAN HERE OR AO3, THEN THEY HAVE BEEN POSTED WITHOUT MY PERMISSION AND I WILL BE WORKING TO TAKE THEM DOWN.

Taglist:

@roosters-girl 🛩️ @infamous-reindeer 🛩️ @caitsymichelle13 🛩️ @mattyskies 🛩️ @cosmic-psychickitty 🛩️ @mygyn 🛩️ @julesclues 🛩️ @greenbaby12 🛩️ @bubblegumbeautyqueen 🛩️ @briseisgone 🛩️ @soulmates8 🛩️ @adoringsebstan 🛩️ @meganlpie 🛩️ @daphne-turner 🛩️ @captain-fandomwriter58 🛩️ @caidi-paris 🛩️

Want to be added to the Taglist for this fic? Leave a comment on this masterlist or drop me a message in my inbox!

PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR AGE IN YOUR BIO. I DO NOT ACCEPT TAG-LIST REQUESTS FROM BLANK OR AGELESS BLOGS. THIS IS AS MUCH FOR MY SAFETY AND LEGALITY ON THE INTERNET AS WELL AS YOURS.

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errantce · 2 months

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2 days later, solani & inoki are at san sequoia's international airport waiting for their flight. & of course, she can't help but think about diego, how she was just here with him and now they no longer talked.

but she quickly pushes those thoughts down, choosing instead to think about finally returning to sulani after so many years away. & although she wished it was under better circumstances, she's still excited to see her family & friends again.

#simblr #the sims 4 #the sims #sims 4 #ts4 #ts4 gameplay #sims 4 gameplay #sims 4 story #the sims gameplay #sims 4 screenshots #errantcesims #solani brown

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sailorsolar12 · 2 years

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Federal Agent? - Jake "Hangman" Seresin x NCISAgentWifeOC - Chapter 1

Here is a little crossover I am making between NCIS and Top Gun Maverick. Don't hate me....gihihi.

Rating: M

Words: 1.8k

Pairing: Jake Seresin x OC

Warnings: violence, cursing, sexual tension, mentions of sex

Summary: Elaine and Jake Seresin met while she was working a case in Miramar, CA as she was stationed at the San Diego Field office, and he was in Top Gun Training. By the time that Jake graduated, they eloped and have been going strong ever since. Fast forward almost 10 years, Elaine is now in charge of her own team at the DC headquarters. With the discovery of a Dead pilot, Elaine and her team must team up with the San Diego field office to find the killer in Miramar while her husband is there training and before the killer decides to target her husband and his friends.

Elaine Seresin frowned as she looked at the screen in front of her. On the far right was the head shot of the dead naval officer she and her team were investigating. On the far left was the head shot of the same officer, but he was very much dead having a bullet wound in his head. In the middle was the GPS route of the naval officer the day before he arrived to D.C. He had flown in to meet with NCIS about something he had discovered, but her team had no idea what. The forensic scientist, Abby Sciuto, had discovered his last full day in Miramar, CA before he flew out of San Diego International and into Ronald Regan. A very familiar name popped up on the itinerary as her team surrounded her. He had stopped at The Hard Deck before going to the airport. Elaine closed her eyes for a second before she turned to her team. "Lauren, I want you and Grant to stay here in DC and work any and all possible leads. Work with Dr. Mallard and Abby to try and figure out what is going on. I have to go talk to the Director, but Sean and myself will be flying out to Miramar. I am not letting this man's death happen again," she said determined while walking away passing Gibbs on her way to the Director's office.

Gibbs raised an eyebrow recognizing the look on her face and nodded to her. "We don't have a case right now... Do you want McGee and Ziva to be ready if your agents need help?" he asked lightly.

Elaine gave a grateful smile. "You're a saint Gibbs," she called running up the stairs and smiled at Director Vance's assistant - who buzzed her in. The red headed agent smiled at the Director as she walked in. "Director," she greeted lightly.

"Ah! Elaine, what brings you to my office?" Leon asked as he finished signing some papers he was behind on. He looked up at her, seeing the dark look in her eyes. "Let me guess. You want to take an agent to wherever Miss Sciuto has found for the victim."

Elaine nodded. "Yes, sir. Abby recovered his GPS log from his phone the day before he was murdered up until he flew into Ronald Regan. He came from Miramar out in California, sir. I was stationed out there in the San Diego field office for some time. I am on good terms with Agent Wilson - who currently heads up that office. Sean and I could be on a flight within two hours to make sure not a lot of time is lost," she explained, feeling her phone and smart watch vibrating a few times with messages from her husband. She would look at them later.

Leon stared at her for a moment before nodding. "I will call Agent Wilson and let her know you and Sean will be coming. Rumor has it, your husband was chosen to learn about a confidential mission with some other Top Gun Graduates. I presume you would like some time off to spend with your husband while he is there?" A knowing smile crossed his lips as Elaine turned bright red. "Once you wrap up the case, you will have your time off." Leon nodded, picking up the phone to call the San Diego field office as Elaine walked out of his office.

Elaine hummed softly as she looked at her phone while slowly walking down the stairs.

1507: I arrived safely, Babe. I wish you were here with me.

1507: Phoenix just texted me asking about you. I think she is sad her girlfriend isn't here. 😜😘🥰

1507: The Hard Deck is still here after all these years. The others who were called back are all meeting up tonight.

1512: My My Lt Seresin, are you trying to make me fly out there and see you?

Elaine smirked as she locked her phone and headed to where her team was while grabbing her go bag. "Director Vance approved us going. Agents McGee and David are able to be used from Agent Gibbs' team if you two need back up," she told the two agents staying as she made a couple of calls to get her and Sean on the next flight to San Diego. She looked at her phone as they arrived at the airport with all their documentation and badges and permits for the guns and concealed weapons on their persons.

A few hours later

Elaine and Sean had arrived easily enough in San Diego and went to the field office where they set up, debriefed the San Diego team, and coming up with a game plan. It was already dark by the time Elaine and Sean got to The Hard Deck which was a very popular bar in Miramar for locals and Top Gun Naval pilots. Elaine was nervous because she hadn't mentioned to her husband she would be flying out even if it was mainly for work. The red headed agent smiled softly at the woman behind the bar. "Hi, Ma'am. I am Special Agent Seresin, and this is Special Agent Hendrickson. We are from NCIS and wanted to ask you a few questions about Ensign Graces," she said flashing her badge and ID and pulling up a photo of Ensign Gracess taken the night he flew out of San Diego.

Penny raised an eyebrow at the female agent's last name. There was no way it was the same as one of the pilots playing pool. She shook herself out of her thoughts before trying to think back. "I do remember him. He only ordered sparkling water and was here maybe 30 minutes...at least he was only inside for 30 or so minutes. Then, he left. I can download the security footage and send it over to you, if that will help?"

Elaine's phone rang. She nodded to Sean to take over the interview as she stepped away from the bar taking the call. "Seresin," she answered.

"Elaine, its Wilson, any luck at the bar?" Alice Wilson asked exasperatedly.

Elaine chuckled hearing the frustration in her friend. "Yeah, the lady behind the bar - whom I think owns the place - remembered him. She is sending the footage. I say call it a night and meet back up in the morning to go over the footage."

"You always have the best ideas, El. You and Sean head back to the hotel. Meet tomorrow morning at say 7?" Alice asked smiling.

"We will be there," Elaine answered as she hung up and went back to the bar as Sean finished the interview with Penny. "Head back to the hotel," she said to her agent while handing him the car keys. She was ecstatic to surprise her husband.

Sean took the keys and pretended to gag. "I swear you two are disgustingly sweet. You guys give me cavities," he said softly walking away leaving his supervisor chuckling in the bar.

Elaine smiled as she turned to the woman behind the bar again and motioned for a single beer her hazel eyes trailing over the stunning body of her husband - who was dressed in his Khaki's. She slid a twenty to the woman and winked before silently walking over to where the pilots were playing pool. She sipped her beer slowly and bit her lip. Elaine hadn't seen her husband in months and everything in her body was telling her to jump his bones right then and there.

Payback and Fanboy smirked as they watched Hangman easily play pool. Payback frowned as he noticed a very attractive red headed woman staring at Hangman like a hungry wolf on the hunt. "Hey Hangman," he called out before motioning to the woman leaning against the bar. "Looks like you got an admirer."

Hangman frowned slightly as he stood for a moment before taking his shot. He hadn't told many besides Phoenix and Rooster that he was married and constantly had to turn women down when they tried to make a move on him. Jake sighed again and turned around going wide eyed seeing the one woman in his life he would love for all eternity. He shoved the pool stick he was holding into Bob's hands and rushed over to the woman scooping her up into a large hug and swinging her around happily. "Elaine! What are you even doing here?!" he exclaimed happily. Elaine smiled happily returning the tight hug her husband gave to her.

"I am currently working on a case with the San Diego field office," she murmured softly. "Myself and Hendrickson are here while the others are still in D.C. working any leads they get there." She leaned up and gave him a deep kiss slowly losing herself in his scent. Elaine pulled away gazing up at him getting lost in his green eyes. "I missed you so much," she whispered softly.

Jake gave a soft groan and murmured, "Oh? How long are you in town for then, my dear?" His hands slowly wrapped around her waist pulling her closer to his body. "Because I can think of a few things that we can go do right now if you'd like."

Elaine giggled softly as she set her beer down and stroked his cheeks lightly. "Oh, I can think of quite a few things too, but Natasha looks about ready to murder you for keeping her girlfriend away," she teased motioning behind them. Natasha and Bradley looked happy to see she was there while the other 9 pilots looked confused. She kissed Jake deeply before winking and walking over to Nat and Brad holding her beer. "When the fuck did you get back to the states?" she asked Bradley while hugging Natasha.

Jake shook his head pouting slightly as he came over to where his wife was. He smiled proudly slipping an arm around Elaine's waist. "Guys, this is my beautiful wife of almost 10 years, Elaine Seresin. Elaine, this is Coyote, Payback, Fanboy, Harvard, Yale, Omaha, Fritz, Halo, Bob, and you already know Phoenix and Rooster."

Payback and Fanboy went wide eyed in shock. Hangman was married?! They as well as the other pilots greeted her and were curious as to why she seemed to be dressed more nicely and not show the right side of her pants. Everyone looked at Bob as he asked what Elaine did.

"Oh, I am a Supervisory Special Agent over a team in DC at the NCIS headquarters," she answered simply subtly flashing her badge and gun.

"You're a fed?" Coyote asked wide eyed. "Damn, Hangman. You sure know how to pick them," he smirked at his fellow pilot who simply smiled at Elaine.

Elaine blushed slightly as Jake kissed her temple before pulling her away with a wink. "It was nice meeting you all," she called out as her husband dragged her away to...catch up after not seeing each other for months.

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cutemothman · 8 months

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Snake Oil

Chapter Five | Start at the Beginning

Sent on a case to investigate a 'miracle cure', the agents find themselves at odds with their fate, the powers that be, and each other.

Mulder doesn’t want to wake Scully when the plane touches down at San Diego International Airport. He would be content to let her drool on his shoulder as long as she needed to. Her pregnancy is still in its early stages, but it’s already started to take its toll on her.

He has always been amazed by Scully’s ability to fall asleep anywhere. Anytime she takes the passenger seat, she’s out like a light, leaving him to amuse himself with a solo game of eye spy on many occasions. But he’s done his research, and all the books say that women early on can experience fatigue as a result of increased progesterone. So he wasn’t surprised when Scully leaned her head against his shoulder as soon as they took their seats on the plane and immediately conked out for the entire five hour flight. He also read that at eight weeks, their baby is the size of a kidney bean. He intends to update Scully periodically by reminding her what fruit or vegetable their baby resembles. When he mentioned his kidney bean factoid last night over dinner, she smiled so big and shook her head. He figures she knows all of these facts already, being a doctor, but she’s kind enough to let him ramble on with his new found knowledge.

Keep Reading

@today-in-fic

#msr #txf #msr fic #fox mulder #dana scully #i keep changing how i format these posts #also i forgot to post chapter 4 on here oops #the x files #chrissy writes #txf fanfic

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homomenhommes · 6 months

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STORY: Ups And Downs 19

Dinner and Dessert

With less than two weeks to go until our big trip to New York and Connecticut, Woody called Rafael and me into his office to begin making preparations. I took notes with my new Wacom note pad. Our itinerary would look something like this:

Wednesday morning: fly to New York City, check into the St. Regis Hotel (overlooking Central Park and just two blocks from the Museum of Modern Art)

Thursday: cocktail reception in Mr. Block’s suite, followed by dinner for 10 in the Presidential Suite

Friday afternoon: Mr. Block, Woody, and I take the train to Stamford, Connecticut, and then travel by rental car to Greenwich for the art show; Rafael remaining in New York (unsupervised)

Sunday afternoon: take the train back to New York City

Monday: Mr. Block and Woody attend an international conference on LGBT+ rights at the United Nations; Rafael and I free for the day

Tuesday: Mr. Block, Woody, and I fly back to San Diego; Rafael remains in NYC for another week before flying to Spain

“We don’t always stay at five-star hotels,” said Woody, “but Mr. Block chose the St. Regis for two reasons: one, he will be entertaining a very exclusive group of gentlemen, and two, he sees this as an opportunity for the two of you to learn what constitutes first-class service. So, while we are there, take pictures and take notes. Before we check out, you will meet with the hotel manager to ask him any questions you may have. This is an exceptional learning opportunity for both of you, so make the most of it.”

After going over the general outline, Woody dismissed Rafael but kept me behind to work out details. My assignment was to make all the reservations—flights, hotels, train, rental car, and dinners. At the art show, I would be expected to provide whatever services might be needed by Mr. Block, Woody, or the show organizers.

“You’re in charge,” Woody told me, “but don’t be afraid to ask for help. Rafael has been through all of this before, so he can answer almost any question you might have. And when you talk to the sales manager at the hotel about that dinner, pull Kim into the conversation to work out the menu and other arrangements. He’s a pro at that.”

As I got up to leave Woody’s office, he called me back and handed me two things: a box containing the latest iPhone and a credit card. “Use these to make the reservations,” he said. The credit card belonged to Mr. Block’s account, but it had my name on it.

For the next week and a half, I worked my tail off, not only making the reservations and other plans for our trip, but also assisting Rafael, Ron, and Kim in their duties, learning as much as I could so that I could fill in when they took days off.

Of course, I still managed to squeeze in sexual adventures two or three times a day. I had sex before work and after work and sometimes during my lunch break, but never during work hours. I never had to look far for available or willing sex partners. They were everywhere.

I remembered what Woody had said about having sex in the limo, the barn, and the boats, so I made sure to play out those fantasies as well as quite a few others.

On the day of our departure, Ron drove the four of us (Mr. Block, Woody, Rafael, and me) to the airport in the Navigator—plenty of room for the five of us plus our luggage. Sitting next to me in the rear seat, Woody handed me an envelope containing $500 in bills of various denominations. “Remember,” he said, “you’re in charge. This money is to cover tips and any other incidentals that you can’t charge to the card. Use it wisely, but don’t be chintzy with the tips. These guys work hard to make our lives easier. The least we can do is to show them our appreciation.”

On the plane, the four of us sat in first class. I had originally booked Rafael and me in coach, but Woody made me change it. “You must constantly be watching out for anything that Mr. Block or I might need,” he said, “and you can’t do that if you’re not with us.”

Mr. Block and Woody took the aisle seats, giving Rafael and me the window seats. Since he and I couldn’t exactly chat with our bosses sitting between us, we texted each other as soon as the overhead lights went off. We joked about the flight attendants—two females in first class and two guys in the back who didn’t exactly appeal to either of us. We lamented the fact that Freddie wasn’t working that flight.

We initially dismissed the idea of having sex in the lavatory since we had both already been inducted into the “mile-high club,” but then it dawned on us: yes, we had both had sex on a plane, but not with each other. When Rafael got up to go to the lavatory, I waited about a minute and then followed him. Walking away, I heard Woody remark to Mr. Block, “They’ll be a while,” which drew a snicker from Mr. Block.

Rafael and I laughed about the fact that the lavatory in first class was bigger than the one in coach, which made it easier for him to ride my dick at 35,000 feet. At one point, we hit a little bit of turbulence, but that only drove my cock deeper into Rafael’s ass. I thought he was going to give us away when he squealed with stunned delight.

When we arrived at the St. Regis in the limo they had sent for us, the desk clerk immediately called the hotel manager, who came out to welcome us. With two cute bellhops carrying our luggage, he escorted us to the Presidential Suite, which was huge—basically a 3000-square-foot luxury apartment. It not only had two bedrooms, one for Mr. Block and one for Woody, but also a living room, a private office, and even a dining room, where our dinner would be catered. The manager, Mr. Danvers, also introduced us to Conrad, the butler assigned to the Presidential Suite. I tipped each of the bellhops $20, but Woody pulled Conrad aside and told him that Rafael and I were there to learn about superior service and would he….

“Mr. Danvers has already explained the situation to me,” Conrad assured Woody. “It will be my pleasure to assist them as well as you and Mr. Block.” Woody thanked him and slipped him a $100 bill.

The two bellhops then led Rafael and me to our rooms down the hall. Though the rooms were not suites, they were more elegant than I could have ever imagined. We had connecting rooms, each with a king-size bed.

As we settled into our respective rooms, there came a knock on my door. It was Conrad. “Mr. Block would like to have dinner at 7:00. Would you like me to reserve a table in the restaurant or will you have dinner in the suite?”

“I’ll have to call Woody and ask him,” I said, but before I could move, Conrad informed me, “Mr. Woodward said that the decision is yours to make.” When Woody said I would be in charge, he wasn’t kidding.

“Hmm. What would you recommend, Conrad?”

“I am happy to make whatever arrangements you wish, but since you will be dining in the suite tomorrow evening, perhaps you would like to try our restaurant tonight. The menu is excellent, the ambiance is quite nice, and you might become acquainted with some of our other guests.”

Conrad was understating the case. The Court restaurant was gorgeous and filled with handsome, well-dressed, and obviously rich gentlemen—mostly older, but some younger than 30. The four of us were well dressed too, Rafael and I in our new Brooks Brothers suits.

When the maitre’d asked Mr. Block if we had reservations, he and Woody remained silent and just looked at me. “Uh, reservation for Mr. Block,” I bucked up.

“Nice save,” Woody whispered to me as we were led to our table. “You’re catching on.”

I felt a twinge of embarrassment at having initially missed the cue, but hearing Woody compliment me pumped up my chest like you wouldn’t believe.

Conrad was right about the menu too. The food was delicious.

“There’s nothing on our calendar tomorrow until the cocktail reception,” observed Woody, “so what do you plan to do with your day, Joe?” My instinct was to say that I would take the time to see some of the sights of New York, but the fact that Woody directed the question to me and not to Rafael and me both, tipped me off that this might be a test.

“I think I should get together with Conrad to make sure that everything is in place for the reception and the dinner.”

An ever-so-slight nod from Woody said to me, “Go on.”

“And I think I should reconfirm our train and hotel reservations for Greenwich.”

When Woody took a very faint breath and leaned back in his chair, I knew that I had scored, but I didn’t quit there.

“Is there anything else I can do for you tomorrow, Mr. Block? Lunch reservations perhaps?”

The faint smirk on Woody’s face said to me, “Now you’re just showing off.” And I ate it up.

“That won’t be necessary,” replied Mr. Block. “I think Woody and I can take care of ourselves for a few hours. Why don’t you and Rafael use the time to get acquainted with the Big Apple? It’s a fascinating city.”

I thanked him but reminded him that I was just a phone call away if he needed anything.

When dinner was concluded and I saw the waiter approaching our table with the bill, I signaled to him to bring the check to me, which he did. After looking it over and adding a generous tip, I signed the check to my room. I think even Rafael was impressed.

As we were leaving the restaurant, we passed a table with two very handsome gentlemen whose eyes followed us out. When we got to the elevator, I said, “You guys go on up. I want to check with the concierge about sightseeing tomorrow,” which was a lie, of course. I was headed back to the restaurant to get acquainted with the two hunks.

When I approached their table, they invited me to sit down while they finished their dinner. “They have sumptuous desserts here,” I commented.

“They certainly do,” gushed one of the men, “and they’re not all on the menu apparently.” I feigned embarrassment, which they thought was adorable.

They complimented me on my new suit, which was obviously a ploy since they were both impeccably dressed themselves, and one of them asked if he could feel the material. Of course, I said yes. I’m not stupid. As he stroked the lapel between his thumb and finger, he let his hand rub against my chest, especially my nipple, which started to rise to the occasion. “Oh, man, this feels really good,” he cooed. “I’ll bet,” said his friend, who had started a seduction of his own by rubbing his leg against mine under the table.

Taking the hints, I told them about our shopping trip to Brooks Brothers and also to The Body Shop in San Diego, which led them to ask what kind of underwear I had bought and what kind I was wearing that night. “I’ll bet you look fucking hot in them,” said one of the men. “And even better out of them,” the other one dared to say.

“And your friend who was with you at dinner. Did he buy new underwear too? I wonder what he’s wearing tonight.”

“I don’t know,” I confessed. “I didn’t check before we came down to dinner, but I’m sure he’s in his room now. Maybe we could all go ask him.”

Well, I didn’t exactly have to twist their arms. They quickly finished their dinners and followed me upstairs.

When I knocked on Rafael’s door, he must have been exercising some ESP because he came to the door in his sexy underwear, which drew oohs and aahs from our two new friends. Rafael didn’t even look surprised when I led them into his room. Maybe when I said I was going to talk to the concierge, he suspected where I was really going and anticipated what the outcome would be.

The outcome, of course, was the four of us ending up naked in Rafael’s king-size bed. They both claimed to be versatile, but when they saw our dicks, they insisted on having us fuck them, which Rafael and I were perfectly happy to oblige. Actually, we swapped back and forth, fucking our respective partners for a few minutes and then, with a tag team slap of the hands, trading partners. The businessmen loved it.

As we fucked them, they occasionally leaned over to kiss each other and sometimes pulled us into kisses. It was such a delight to watch two incredibly handsome men kissing each other and kissing us. It was such a turn on…as if we needed any extra stimulus. Rafael and I both shot our loads more quickly than either of had intended and somewhat to the disappointment of the guys under us, so we tried to make up for the abbreviated fuck by sucking on their cocks, which they also unloaded more quickly than anyone would have preferred.

With our mouths full of their man cream, they kissed us again, swapping their cum with us and with each other until we ended up in a four-way cumfest.

After they got dressed and left Rafael’s room, he and I showered, but before we could finish drying off, the phone in his room rang. It was the two guys inviting us to their room. “Our husbands are back from their evening out and would like to meet you.”

To be continued

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