#cpt. pete mitchell

[peachiestkeen]

Masterlist!

Author's Note: Please keep in mind this is the Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick specific Masterlist! if I ever write for any other universes they will get their own Master list!

Love Letters to No One

Part One: Lost Boys

Part Two: Three's a Party

Part Three: Crazy=Genius

Part Four: Winner Gets a Kiss

Part Five: Braddles

Part Six: A Broken Heart. Again.

Part Seven: Give ‘Em Hell

Part Eight: Dagger One

Bradley Bradshaw One Shots

Photos (B.B)

Baking Cookies (B.B)

Baby Bradshaw (B.B)

Take A Chance on Me (B.B)

I Love You (B.B)

Not What I Expected (B.B)

Little Yellow Onesie (B.B)

Puppy Love? (B.B)

Bob One Shots

Slow Burn (R.F)

Kiwi (R.F)

Swimsuit Model (R.F)

Home. (R.F)

A Quiet Place (R.F)

Hangman One Shots

Kinda Hot and Very Bothered (J.S)

Cake Batter (J.S)

When Will I See You Again (J.S)

Bagman (J.S)

Phoenix One Shots

Ashes to Ashes (N.T)

On the Rocks (N.T)

Strawberry Blond (N.T)

Lost (N.T)

Maverick One Shots

As the Caged Bird Sings (P.M)

Travelin' Soldier (P.M)

Pretty White Dress (P.M)

Pete Meets You (P.M)

3 a.m (P.M)

Hurt (P.M)

[randoauthor]

Love Letters to No One (B.B)

Pairings: Roster x Fem!Reader, Platonic!Maverick x Fem!Reader

Warning: swearing, mentions of death

Word Count: 1.1K

Author's Note: wow look at me knocking two out in one day. Also if you haven't read Part 1 I would highly recommend reading that first otherwise this might now make much sense!

Part Two: Three's a party

No, absolutely not. Not here, not now. He doesn't get to do this to me.

Yet somehow there he was. The innocent boy I grew up with, the one who took me to prom and who held me while I cried over stupid boys.

The one whose letters never came.

The one who destroyed me before I even got to give it a fighting chance.

The one who never showed up for mom's funeral.

There he stood, his dad's old Hawaiian shirt hanging loosely off his body. Aviators sitting on his very well mature face.

"Are you actually a pilot?" Hangman turns to me curiosity flooding his expression.

"Yes she is and a good one at that." Bradley beamed. "Graduated top of her class at the Naval Academy and was the first woman to finish highest ranked in Top Gun. Hangman, she could kick your ass with her eyes closed." He chuckled as Hangman backed away. "It's good to see you, Lem." I looked past Hangman to see him and for the first time in a very long time, our eyes meet. His expression softens, "you look good."

The fire grew in my stomach, I don't care how good he looks right now.

"You left me," I say coldly.

"Jeez, some unrequited love I see." Hangman mocked, "What stupid thing did you do to break this one's heart Rooster?" Bradley looked at me, a flash of pain crossed his eyes. "I left."

I chuckle, "yes you left and you never came back, you weren't there for me when I graduated from the naval academy, you weren’t there when I went through Top Gun. And most importantly you weren't there when my mom died." The people around us grew silent, Jake's smile grew sinister as he turned to face Bradley. "Damn Rooster you screwed up big time." I turned to Hangman, "and the shitiest part was that he knew all of this was happening yet he decided not to come."

"Enough Lem," Bradley's tone airing caution. "We don't need to get into this here.

I laughed.

"No Bradley, we don't have to get into this ever."

I pushed past the two, trying to hide the sobs until I had at least hit the outside seating. I didn't need him to get the better of me. I have a job I have to complete here. I have a reputation I need to uphold. Stupid boys from the past hold no meaning to me now.

You will never get used to the sound of a jet gearing up to take off. There's a special rumble that flows down to the tips of your fingers and the pace of your heart quickens and you find your brain to miraculously be absolutely silent.

"Breathe Lemon, follow the target, and do what you were trained to do." Dad's voice comes softly through the intercoms.

For some reason today my helmet feels tight and something feels wrong, what feels wrong?

"Lemon do you copy? We are going airborne." I turn to my father's plane nodding in understanding, yet I can't seem to shake the feeling that something is going to end up wrong.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sky is beautiful today, but I can't lose focus on my target. Flying solo poses danger on its own, but with the parameters of this mission, dangerous flying is the only flying we are gonna know.

Steady Lem. Watch Pheonix and Bob, protect Pheonix and Bob.

"Behind you Lemon, watch behind you, Maverick's behind you." I watch my back, with Bob having alerted me of my father's whereabouts in the sky.

"Boo." Dad's jet pulls up behind us and a chase ensues, "Pheonix bear left and then pull up, and don't let him catch you." They respond with a simple Roger and we go our separate ways.

While Pheonix bears to the left I take the chance to confuse dad by pulling straight, the G's begin to pull on my body as I ascend further into the sky, "Those are some very colorful actions Lieutenant, it's such a same you learned that from your old man." I chuckle, in about three seconds Maverick is gonna lose sight of me because he thinks like I think. Going after the more challenging opponent is gonna prove a point with the Admiral.

I think it makes life even easier when the Admiral is your godfather.

"See ya dad," flipping the plane was like second nature to me now, the photos I've got of dad upside in F-14s and he has identical 0nes of me in F-18s. Traditions only seemed fair and like father-like-daughter, we both do the stupidest things.

"Damnit kid you are better than I remember." Flying down behind dad my tracker levels with itself and,

"Bingo, dad you are dead."

Cheers from Pheonix and Bob echo through my headset.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back at base, the fellow pilots are surrounding the comms, anxiously awaiting the sign that Lieutenant Mitchell was really as good as Rooster says she is.

Patiently in the corner Rooster sits, twirling three different dog tags in his hand, listening silently, praying silently. He wants her to show them, he needs her to show them. He needs her to show him.

Not a day goes by that he doesn't regret leaving, not telling her where he was going.

Not being there when Charlie died.

That one he will always feel guilty for, because while he was there, he was actually there, he couldn't be there with her. So he stood in the back and he cried when he needed to and once everyone left he thanked her.

Because in some ways, after his dad died his mother was never totally the same, she was still his mom and she was there for all his life events, but in between those moments, when his mother wasn't really his mother. Charlie was always there.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, Lieutenants Mitchell, Trace, and Floyd have successfully completed the exercise."

It was almost as if a blanket of Astonishment fell amongst the men, after a very long, hot day of doing push-ups on the tarmac, had she really been successful in 'killing' Mav?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The landing was the easiest part of any exercise you ran because in the air life was in the hands of whoever the pilot believed to be in charge of the life.

But once you land you realize the craziest part of flying isn't the feelings, or the life hanging by a thread, it's the fact that no matter the problems on the ground they didn't matter. Because when you are thousands of feet in the air, problems on ground disappear.

He stood off, away from the rest as they stood on the tarmac, waiting for the victorious trio to exit their respective aircraft. Through the crowd, he saw her.

"Rooster, gear up, you're next." Dad is just trying to prove a point, but why is this bad feeling getting worse?

Apparently, there's a taglist now!

@itscheybaby

[galactic-marvelettes]

So, “Top Gun: Maverick” ends with Maverick flying off into the sunset with Penny in the P-51.

But like… what did Rooster and Amelia get up to while waiting for them to come back?

Just stare at each other and engage in awkward small talk??

[allpromarlo]

an underrated moment in tg:m is when mav & rooster are looking at the half destroyed enemy base and mav runs off without warning, to which rooster's just like

"MAV-

"okay"

followed by both of them running like fuckin muppets across the base

[coelura]

literally tho WHY is the war machine propaganda film at its core about losing and finding family :((( don't they know that shit hurted? :(

[qedart]

Time Warp AU - #12

I got this little scene stuck in my head and had to get it out before moving on to anything with a bit more plot. Just the boys actually behaving like normal teenagers for once (well, perhaps with a dash more danger than most teens go for) and pestering Ice for permission to get motorcycle licences (they assume Mav’s a shoe-in. They are mistaken. He’s by far the more hesitant of the two of them). 

It’s an opportunity for both Ice and Tom to flex their negotiation muscles. By the end of talks they’ve got a written agreement (signed by all parties and witnessed by an utterly bemused Cyclone) outlining that: 

Thomas Lev Kazansky (II) (hereinafter referred to as TK) and Pete Michael Mitchell (II) (hereinafter referred to as PM) will receive permission and blessing to get motorcycle permits/licences under the condition that: 

California Relevant state road rules will be abided by. 

Permit limitations will be followed until PM and TK are eligible for licence upgrade

Protective gear (read: helmet, gloves, jacket, boots as a minimum) to be worn at all times (Addition: Cpt Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (I) will provide a good example by wearing a helmet and gloves at a bare minimum going forward). 

Motorcycles will be roadworthy upon purchase. (Note: PM’s confidence in his abilities to make them so will not suffice.)

Motorcycles will be appropriately maintained (with quarterly check-ups conducted by Cpt Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (I) for the first 12 months or until satisfied with PM and TK’s skillset to carry on solo). 

Before first solo ride/s - PM and TK are to accompany Cpt Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (I)  and Admiral Thomas ‘Iceman’ Kazansky on no less than six group rides to build up seat time and skillset in various conditions. 

Any accidents, minor or major, that occur will be reported to Cpt Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (I)  and Admiral Thomas ‘Iceman’ Kazansky  (note: i: Cpt Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (I)  and Admiral Thomas ‘Iceman’ Kazansky  acknowledge that accidents happen and are often a part of learning and promise not to overreact in the case of an honest mistake. ii: PM and TK agree that further instruction will be provided and accepted with minimal protest to avoid future accidents). 

…

It goes on for about 5 pages. (If the fighter-pilot thing doesn’t work out, Tom’s got a very bright future in law and/or politics it would seem). 

In other news, waaaay more research into California road law went into the background of this comic than was really necessary. (I would have had my bike soooooo many years earlier if I was born american 😭)

[averagewriter-inthedark]

Living Up To The Legacy ✈️ | Top Gun: Maverick P.1

Contains spoilers for Top Gun: Maverick

Series Masterlist

Characters & Pairings: LT. Bradley ‘Rooster’ Bradshaw x Lt. Barbara ‘Legacy’ Mitchell (past romance/eventual romance), Cpt. Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (platonic), Jake ‘Hangman’ Seresin (platonic), Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace (platonic), pretty much every other character is a platonic pairing

Content Warnings: light angst, profanity, slight age-gap (Rooster was born in 1984, Barbara in 1989), mentions of death, spoilers for TGM | Female OC (she/her) | Wc: 10k

Premise: Nearly grounded once and for all after disobeying orders, Captain Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell is sent to North Island, California on a new assignment. The goal: teach a group of TOPGUN graduates how to work as a team and successfully destroy a uranium plant before it is fully operation. The problem, two of the candidates have a personal connection to Maverick and each other, but all are estranged. Maverick comes face to face with a new mission on his plate, one that looks nearly impossible compared to the difficult task he is to perform.

Note: So for this story, I looked it up and it says on the wiki that Rooster was born in 1984 and for this I’m making Barbara born in 1989 so they have roughly a five-ish year age-gap between them. Also considering this movie was supposed to be released in 2020, the plot I think take place in 2019 so that’s gonna be the year it is set in. Hope that makes sense and sorry for any confusion. If I made any inconsistencies, I’ll go back and fix them later on.

—————————————————————

“Maverick. Thirty plus years of service. Combat medals. Citations. Only man to shoot down three enemy plans in the last forty years. Distinguished. Distinguished. Distinguished,” Admiral Cain’s low voice reads off the paper. In front of him, Maverick stares ahead at attention. Once again the infamous naval pilot is faced with the consequences of his actions. This time it was going against orders to go through with testing the “Darkstar” scramjet at Mach 10.

An action which led to him pushing it, in Maverick fashion, and ultimately destroying it.

“Yet you can’t get a promotion. You won’t retire. And despite your best efforts you refuse to die. You should at least be a two star Admiral by now, if not a senator,” Cain points out. “Yet here you are. Captain. Why is that?”

There was no time to joke around, but Mav couldn’t help it. “It’s one of life’s mysteries, sir.”

“This isn’t a joke. I asked you a question,” Cain snaps with no humor in his tone.

“I’m where I belong, sir.”

“Well, the navy doesn’t see it that way,” Cain shakes his head. “Not anymore.” The sound of a jet passes by as Cain leans back in his chair. “These planes you’ve been testing, Captain, one day, sooner or later, they won’t need pilots at all. Pilots that need to sleep, eat, take a piss.” He looks back to Maverick, a slight glare in his expression. “Pilots that disobey orders. Which I hear has become a habit of yet another pilot who has taken it upon herself to live up to the Mitchell name.”

A silence passes as Maverick takes in his words. He doesn’t want to react at the mention of his daughter. The one he hadn’t seen in years. Part of him feels a sense of pride. That she is as rebellious as he was in his youth, pissing off superiors left and right. But on another note it worries him. The last thing he’d want for her is to lose her career over mistakes and disobeying.

Cain then points out the obvious, “All you did was buy some time for those men out there. The future is coming, and you’re not in it.” This has Mav looking away, not wanting to accept what the Admiral was telling him.

“Escort this man off the base,” Cain leans forward. “Take him to his quarters. Wait with him while he packs his gear. I want him on the road to North Island within the hour.”

“North Island, sir?” Mav asks with confusion. Of course he knew what lay in North Island. So why the hell was he going there?

“Call came in with impeccable timing—right as I was driving here to ground your ass once and for all,” the tone in Cain’s voice read that he was not at all happy to deliver the news—if it was up to him, Maverick would be out of the Navy for good. “It galls me to say it, but….for reasons known only to the Almighty and your guardian angel, you’ve been called back to TOPGUN.”

The look on Mavericks face was only that of shock—and probably fear. Back to Top Gun?? After thirty years?? It couldn’t be real. “Sir?”

Cain cuts him off, “You are dismissed, Captain.”

Picking his head up, blinking rapidly as he did, Maverick slowly turns on his heel. As he heads out, Cain calls to him one last time. “The end is inevitable, Maverick. Your kind is headed for extinction.”

Stopping shortly in front of the door, Mav glances to the floor before facing his now former superior. In his gaze is determination, as though it would not be the last Cain saw of him. “Maybe so sir. But not today.”

The ride to North Island was quick. Mostly because Mav was speeding if he was being honest. There was nothing like the sight of an F-18 taxiing down the runway before taking off into the horizon. It brought a smile to the pilots face, cruising down the road next to the airstrip and pumping the gas to try and beat the jet before it went airborne.

When he arrived at Fightertown located in San Diego, the first thing Maverick did was head to the building where he was to meet with his new superiors. Walking in, Mav’s eyes caught sight of a familiar picture hanging on the wall to his left. It was a black and white photograph of a young Maverick shaking hands with a man he once rivaled, after successfully shooting down enemy planes.

Where a forever friendship was formed. Where Maverick found his wingman.

Behind him, was another photo. This one showed the same man Maverick was shaking hands with, but much older with an array of ribbons signifying his accomplishments. Admiral Tom “Iceman” Kazansky, Commander of the U.S Pacific Fleet, Mav’s wingman and literal guardian angel for when he fucks up.

Smiling at the photo, Mav continues down the hallway to the meeting room he’s expected at.

“Captain Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell. Your reputation precedes you,” were the words he was greeted with from the three-star admiral seated at the head of the table. Beside him was a two-star admiral.

“Thank you, sir.”

The admiral tilts his head, almost humored. “Wasn’t a compliment. I’m Admiral Beau Simpson. I’m the air boss. I believe you know Admiral Bates.”

Mav nods to the man in greeting, “Warlock, sir. Must admit, I wasn’t expecting an invitation back.”

“They’re called orders, Maverick,” Warlock corrects, albeit a small smirk on his lips. Mav sheepishly smiles, glancing to the ground. “You two have something in common,” Warlock gestures to the man beside him, “Cyclone here was first in his class back in ‘88.”

“Actually, sir, I finished second,” Mav points out. “Just want to manage expectations.” He ends with a full grin, as if he found the jab at himself funny.

Cyclone didn’t look impressed.

“The target….” Warlock leans in to redirect the subject before pressing something on the device in front of him. The screen behind Mav depicts blueprints, the Captain turning to see. “—is an unsanctioned uranium enrichment plant built in violation of a multilateral NATO treaty. The uranium produced there represents a direct threat to our allies in the region. The Pentagon has tasked us with assembling a strike team and taking it out before it becomes fully operational.”

The screen switches to a geographic model showcasing a mountain. “The plant sits in an underground bunker at the end of this valley. Said valley is GPS jammed and defended by an extensive surface-to-air missile array,” red dots light up around the mountain. They symbolize missiles protecting the bunker. “—serving a limited number of fifth generation fighters, which in turn are backed up by a plentiful reserve of surplus aircraft. Even a few old F-14s.”

“Seems like we’re not the only ones holding on to old relics,” Cyclone comments, noticing the look on Mav’s face at the sight of the old jets they used to fly back in the day.

“What’s your read, Captain?” Warlock asks, causing Mav to look intensely at the screen.

What he saw was something almost impossible. Looking at it from any angle indicated this to the esteemed pilot. It made Mav fear for the others who would be involved.

He cleared his throat before speaking. “Well, sir, normally this would be a cakewalk for the F-35’s stealth, but the GPS-jamming negates that. And a surface-to-air threat necessitates a low-level laser-guided strike tailor made for the F-18. I figure,” he pauses to think. “Two precision bombs, minimum. Makes it four aircraft flying in pairs.” Cyclone and Warlock share a look, while Mav points a finger at the mountain. “That is one hell of a steep climb out of there, exposing you to all the surface-to-air missiles. You survive that, it’s a dogfight all the way home.”

“All requirements for which you have real-world experience,” Warlock says, causing Mav to glance at him.

“Not the same mission, sir.” He turns back to the screen, deep in thought. As much as he didn’t want to admit it, the odds were not in their favor for this type of mission. “No, someone’s not coming back from this.”

“Can it be done or not?” Cyclone questions, wanting to hurry up and finish the meeting. Time was at the essence and they needed to get started.

“How soon before the plant becomes operational?”

“Three weeks,” Warlock answers. “Maybe less.”

Bidding one last look to the screen, Maverick turns to face the Admirals. Oblivious to what they really wanted him there for. In his mind, he was the man tasked with leading the mission. “Well, it’s been a while since I’ve flown an F-18, and…I’m not sure who I’d trust to fly the other three.” He continues talking, not noticing the look Cyclone gives Warlock which has the latter interrupting him. “But I'll find a way to make it work—.”

“I think you misunderstand, Captain.”

This has Mav confused, “Sir?”

“We don’t want you to fly it,” Cyclone tells him. “We want you to teach it.”

Now that was the last thing the man expected. “Teach, sir?” Teaching and Maverick were not something to be used in the same sentence. He learned that quickly in his two months as instructor….thirty years prior.

His superiors both give a sigh, before Cyclone switches the screen on the projector. “We’ve recalled twelve Top Gun graduates from their squadrons.” Two rows of photos appeared showing the selected graduates in their flight jumpsuits. Each had their name along with their call sign located at the bottom. “We want you to narrow that pool down to six.”

Maverick let his eyes scan the photos, reading over the names after getting a look at each face they belonged to. BOB, OMAHA, HALO, YALE, HARVARD, FANBOY, PAYBACK, COYOTE, HANGMAN, PHOENIX. And then his attention was brought to the last two on the far right, making his heart sink as he read ROOSTER and LEGACY.

It was like the universe was out to get him. Digging up bones that could never be buried no matter how much he tried to fix the past. The boy with the golden hair and mustache, making him look like a carbon copy of his dad, Goose. Mavericks lost wingman who he still blames himself for his death. And the girl he failed as a father, a spitting image of his own self with matching blue-green eyes and black hair.

He hadn’t seen either in years. And if what Ice told him was true about what happened to their relationship, then Mav was at a loss to even attempt to approach the subject with his daughter. She never called. Never sent a text. Or even an email. But Maverick couldn’t blame her.

“They’ll fly the mission.” Cyclone’s voice brought him out of his inner battle with his thoughts. The admiral notices the clench of his jaw, and distant look in his eye as he turns away from the screen. “Is there a problem, Captain?”

The condescending tone nearly had Maverick walking out of the room. “You know there is, sir.”

“Yeah,” he replies nonchalantly, tapping the tablet with his finger. The screen pulls up the image of Rooster and all his information. “Bradley Bradshaw, aka ‘Rooster.’ I understand you used to fly with his old man. What was his call sign?” Of course the admiral knew, but he wanted Maverick to tell him anyway.

The pain in the Captain's heart was clear as he said aloud, “‘Goose’, sir.”

“Tragic what happened.”

“Captain Mitchell was cleared of any wrongdoing,” Warlock interjects, feeling sympathy for the pilot. He couldn’t imagine what it would be like to lose one’s wingman. “Goose’s death was an accident.”

“Is that how you see it, Captain,” Cyclone asks before gesturing to the screen. It was clear he was getting under Mavericks skin. And it was working. “Is that how Goose’s son sees it?” Before the pilot could answer, Cyclone changed the screen to the next image.

The woman staring back at them had dark black hair cut in a sleek bob that fell just above her chin. She had strong cheekbones and jawline, dark brows framing what Maverick knew were bright blue-green eyes—which were grey in contrast to the colorless photo—and plump lips like her mother. She wasn’t smiling in her photo. When thinking about it, Mav couldn’t remember the last time he saw his daughter smile.

Once again Cyclone’s voice caught his attention. “Lieutenant Barbara Mitchell. Better known as ‘Legacy,’ which is something she certainly lives up to. Your daughter's reputation nearly rivals that of your own, Captain.”

Mavericks lips curl up, “so I’ve heard.”

Cyclone grimaces while Warlock smirks. It was already a handful having one Mitchell at Top Gun. Add a second and there surely would be chaos of some sort. But, they were the best of the best. Literally. Barbara Mitchell lived up to the legacy of her family in every aspect there was.

There was also another subject to note in regards to the three—Maverick, Rooster, and Legacy—being called back to Top Gun. “It’s my understanding Rooster and Legacy are—I’m sorry, were spouses. Or has the divorce not been finalized?”

Maverick grimaced, glancing away with his jaw clenched. So what Ice told him was true. It pained the aviator to know the two didn’t last. It was never easy being a couple where both were in the military, let alone fighter pilots and on top of that Maverick felt an underlying reason for their relationship ended was in regards to him.

It had been nearly two years since Ice told him Barb had filed for separation. Knowing his daughter, Mav knew she’d want to cut the ribbon loose instead of drawing it out and going to court so he expected the divorce was quick. Cyclone was just trying to piss him off. Mav wouldn’t put it past him to know they were in fact divorced.

Instead of answering the Admiral, he changed the topic to a more important matter. “With all due respect, sir, I’m not a teacher.” It didn’t work the last time, he doubted it would again.

“You were a Top Gun instructor before.”

“That was almost thirty years ago. I lasted two months,” He replied, trying to show it was a bad idea to give him the job. “It’s not where I belong.”

“Then let me be perfectly blunt,” Cyclone started, not showing really any sympathy. “You were not my first choice. In fact, you weren’t even on the list. You are here at the request of Admiral Kazansky.” Ah, Ice saves the day once again. “Now, Iceman happens to be a man I deeply admire, and he seems to think that you have something left to offer the Navy,” he pauses to shake his head.

“What that is, I can’t imagine. You don’t have to take this job. But let me be clear: this will be your last post, Captain. You fly for Top Gun, or you don’t fly for the Navy ever again.”

And just like that, Maverick was back at Top Gun. Whether he liked it or not.

Later that night Maverick ended up sitting at the bar at the local tavern ‘The Hard Deck.’ Two Lieutenants he recognized as the recruits Hangman and Coyote were tossing darts. Mav watched them for a while until he passed a few texts between him and Ice. Then to his surprise, the lady behind the bar was none other than his former flame, Penny.

He thought the conversation was going well….until she rang the bell. “Disrespect a lady, the Navy, or put your cell phone on my bar,” Mav recited as he lifted his phone off the bar.

“And you buy a round,” Penny finished for him, a mischievous smile coating her lips.

With a hesitant look, Mav glanced around, “For everyone?” He questioned.

“I’m afraid rules are rules. You’re lucky it’s early.” Mav watched her walk away, smiling with a light blush to his cheeks. Every time he saw Penny, something in him stirred like he was a giddy teenager again.

“What do we have here?” The sound of Hangman’s voice called his attention. He followed the blonde’s gaze to a trio of officers entering the bar. A female lieutenant walked ahead of the two guys behind her. Mav recognized them as Phoenix, Fanboy, and Payback.

“If it ain’t Phoenix!” Hangman lifted the cue up and walked beside the table to greet them. “And here I thought we were special, Coyote. Turns out the invite went to anyone.”

Lt. Trace, aka Phoenix just smirked, crossing her arms over her chest. “Fellas, this here’s Bagman.”

“Hangman,” he corrected.

“Whatever,” her tone indicated she didn’t care. “You’re looking at the only naval aviator on active duty with a confirmed air-to-air kill.”

Hangman smiled, obviously feeling the inflation to his ego. “Stop.” He really didn’t want her to.

The tables then turned. “Mind you, the other guy was in a museum piece from the Korean War,” Phoenix points out, playing down on his accomplishment.

“Cold War,” Coyote jumps in.

“Different wars, same century,” Lt. Fitch counters.

“Not this one,” says Lt. Garcia.

Coyote gestures to the two with a pool cue in his hand. “Who are your friends?”

“Payback,” Fitch tells him and Garcia follows with, “Fanboy.”

“Hey, Coyote,” Phoenix greets.

“Hey,” he replies with a smirk. The woman nudges her head to the right, “who’s he?”

“Who’s who?” All eyes draw to the Lieutenant brushing something off some peanut shells off his uniform seated by the pool table. When he notices them looking at him he freezes. Coyote is the first to speak, “When did you get in?”

The blonde man with glasses smiles sheepishly, “Oh, I've been here the whole time.” At no point did the group notice the man, who was munching on some peanuts and watching the interaction play out.

“The man’s a stealth pilot,” Hangman comments and Coyote agrees, “Literally.”

“Weapons systems officer, actually,” he politely corrects. It causes Hangman to nod his head, “With no sense of humor,” and hand off the pool cue to Phoenix.

“What do they call you,” She asks. There’s an immediate blush to his cheeks when he answers, “Bob.”

“No, your call sign,” Payback rephrases. Again, the blonde man appears embarrassed, “Uhh….Bob.”

The name rings a bell for the female aviator, “Bob Floyd. You’re my new backseater? From Lemoore.” Beside her, Fanboy was lightly laughing.

Bob smiles at her, “Looks like it. Yeah.” She looks him over, as if to read him and gives a nod before handing him the cue, “nine-ball, Bob. Rack ‘em.” He stared at the cue, not really expecting to be included in the game. “Okay,” he eventually says while getting up from the chair.

Over at the bar, Hangman goes to cash in on the round bought by Maverick. “Penny, my dear.”

“Yeah,” she says, going up to him.

“I’ll have four more on the old-timer,” his eyes meet Maverick as he orders. The older man shakes his head when Penny gives him a look while going to grab the beers. A few moments later his attention is again drawn to the entrance of the bar when Phoenix loudly calls out to a patron.

A patron Maverick had yet to reunite with.

“Bradshaw!” She yells, capturing the young Lieutenant’s eyes. “Is that you?” At the bar, Maverick turns his back away, preventing Rooster from seeing him when he walks to the group. The woman gives an offended look when he approaches, “This is how I find out you’re stateside?”

The aviator sunglasses are removed and tucked into his shirt. “Yeah, I just thought I’d surprise you.” He comes up behind Phoenix as she lines up the shot.

“Hmm.” Bending down, Phoenix draws the cue back and makes direct contact with Rooster’s gut. He grunts, the woman pushing the cue forward to hit the ball and letting it shoot across the table. Rooster bends, clutching his stomach with a pained expression. “I guess I surprised you back.”

Squinting, Rooster lifts his gaze to her and smiles as best as he can, “It’s good to see you.”

“Good to see you too,” she replies, her smile then falling. “Do you know if—.” The shake of his head cuts Phoenix off from finishing the sentence.

“We’ll find out sooner or later,” he stands straight, glancing at the other pilots around them. “I wouldn’t be surprised with this many of us called back, she would be too.”

Back at the bar, Penny handed Hangman four beers, courtesy of Mav’s round. “Here you go,” she says as he takes the bottles. The Lieutenant thanks her before turning to Mav to say, “Much appreciated, Pops.” He ends with a wink and turns back to return to the group.

Mav nods briefly, letting his gaze go past the blonde to focus on the man in the Hawaiian shirt behind him. Rooster’s back was to him, and wanting to get out of there before the young man noticed, Mav pulled out his card for Penny. “How about ringing me up before the evening rush?”

With a smirk, Penny goes to the register, leaving the pilot to himself once again. A few times he checks the entrance to see if Barbara had arrived. So far half of the recruits had shown up, Mav was prepared to get a glimpse of his daughter before heading out.

Changing the song on the jukebox and handing the beers over to Coyote, Hangman lands his sight on Rooster. “Bradshaw,” he draws out, snatching the cue from Bob before the Lieutenant could take the shot. “As I live and breathe.”

“Hangman,” Rooster returns, looking him over. “You look…good.” Nudging Bob aside, Hangman lines up his cue with the ball, “Well, I am good, Rooster.” The two connect eyes just as he draws the cue back and hits the ball, “I’m very good. In fact, I am too good to be true.”

The arrogance from the man has Phoenix and Payback shaking their heads, both turning to Rooster. “So,” Payback starts to say, “Anybody know what this special detachment is all about?”

“No, mission’s a mission,” Hangman replies, not taking his gaze off the pool table. “They don’t confront me. What I want to know: who’s gonna be team leader?” The balls clatter when he takes another shot after successfully pocketing the last ball. “And which one of y’all has what it takes to follow me?”

The look Rooster gives is one that reads, ‘you can’t be serious right now.’ “Hangman, the only place you’ll lead anyone is an early grave.” Though the music is playing it feels like one could hear a pin drop.

“Whoo!” Fanboy whistles, not even trying to hide the giggles falling from his lips. Phoenix was clutching the pool cue, staring at Rooster as if she could not believe he really said that. If Hangman was bothered, the man was doing a good job of not showing it. He simply grinned, walking up to Rooster and stopping so close they were practically toe to toe with one another.

“Well, anyone who follows you is just gonna run out of fuel. But that’s just you, ain’t it, Rooster? You’re snug on that perch, waiting for just the right moment…” Hangman steps closer, putting the cue in between them before finishing, “That never comes.” The next words to come from his mouth were cold and calculated, but what was that to stop him. Jake looks down to see Rooster’s left hand, where it was now vacant of a gold ring. “It’s a shame about you and the Missus—or should I say, former missus.”

That same hand then clutched into a fist, but that’s all it did. Behind Jake, Phoenix was glaring daggers into his back, checking on Rooster for his reaction while the others looked confused. It took a moment to realize what the blonde was implying. Hangman ramped up the tension when he added, “Say, you know I always wondered why her call sign was ‘Legacy.’ Interesting name. She wouldn’t tell me but said it had to do with her maiden name,” Hangman bites his lip while grinning, “Now that she’s not lady Bradshaw anymore, I’m looking forward to finding out the reason.”

“Watch it, Seresin,” Phoenix warned, but he ignored her. Rooster was her friend, and so was Barbara despite knowing Rooster longer. She didn’t appreciate the man making snide comments about their failed relationship.

When it appeared Rooster was not going to say anything back, Hangman smirked in a slight victory. “I love this song.” ‘Slow ride. Take it easy.’ As he walked away, Phoenix approached Rooster, both of them watching him as he went.

“Well, he hasn’t changed,” she says with no surprise.

“Nope,” he agrees, jaw still clenched from the last jab Hangman threw at him. “Sure hasn’t.” Getting an idea, Rooster walks away, leaving Phoenix by the table. She wanted to ask if he was alright, but decided against it.

Fanboy comes up to her, confusion coating his expression. “What the hell was that all about?” He gestures to Rooster and Hangman. Fanboy didn’t know either of them, but his curiosity peaked at the mention of someone called ‘Legacy’. “Who’s Legacy?”

Phoenix let out a sigh, setting the pool cue aside. “Rooster’s ex-wife, Barbara. She’s a naval pilot too—graduated from Top Gun three years ago right after their divorce.” Fanboy whistled lowly, not expecting that information.

“Damn. How long were they together?”

“Over seven years—married for five. They tied the knot after her commission, Rooster was already done with flight school by then. I think they dated for about two years before he proposed. Not really sure on the exact dates.”

Fanboy frowns, “What happened?” Phoenix glances over to Rooster who was walking in the direction of the jukebox. She gives a shrug and says, “He won’t say. Doesn’t really like to talk about it.” Fanboy nods, feeling sympathy for his fellow aviator.

“Why ‘Legacy’? That’s an usual call sign.” When he thought of the word, what came to mind was sorority girls or frat brothers who had parents in Greek life.

“Something about her family,” Phoenix answers. So he was right, it did have to deal with a parent. “She never talked much about her parents, but she told me once her mother was a civilian contractor for Top Gun and her dad was a pilot. Also her grandpa served, as did her Godfather. I guess in flight school that information spread, someone called her legacy and it stuck.”

Fanboy took in the information. He could understand how something like that would bestow that kind of call sign. It honestly intrigued him. Before he could ask another question, something else caught his eye. Gesturing to the entrance he said, “Check it out. More patches.”

Payback stands from the chair, coming up behind the two to see some fellow aviators, “That’s Harvard, Yale, Omaha.”

“What the hell kind of mission is this?” Fanboy questions, curious to know what he got himself into when he agreed to come back to North Island. Never had there been so many Top Gun graduates called back. The mission had to be a serious one.

“That’s not the question we should be asking,” Phoenix says to her fellow pilot. “Everyone here is the best there is. Who the hell are they gonna get to teach us?”

The card slaps down in front of Maverick, “It’s been declined,” Penny tells him. He gives a look of bewilderment, “You’re kidding.” There was no way it was empty. Had he not transferred over funds? Or did his last paycheck not go through?

Groans sounded around when the music was abruptly cut off. The culprit, none other than Rooster himself. Sunglasses on, despite being indoors, the aviator takes a seat in front of the piano, fingers go over the keys to play a light jazz. Phoenix hears the tone, smiling lightly as she calls out, “hey, guys. Come on.” Together they join Rooster, tossing the cue onto the table causing Hangman to throw his hands out as if to say, ‘Really?’

Meanwhile at the bar, Maverick is in a pickle. Not only was his card declined, but he was short on cash. Fishing out some 1s, and 5s, Penny just shakes her head at him, handing over the bill, “That won’t cover it.”

Taking the bill, his eyes go wide at the number listed at the bottom. Even before the evening rush there was a good amount of people in attendance. All who ordered a round on his tab. Trying to coax his way to a deal, Mav gives Penny a puppy-like look, “Uh, I’ll come by tomorrow and bring you the cash.”

A finger lifts to him, the woman moving over to the bell, “I’m afraid rules are rules, Pete.” Before he can plead with her, Penny swings the rope and lets the bell ring, resulting in the entire bar erupting in cheers. They begin to chant ‘overboard’ as Maverick lets his head drop in defeat, although he’s smiling throughout the entire exchange. “Really?”

Hangman, Payback, and Coyote pull up behind him, all three waiting for Penny’s signal. With a simple nod to the entrance, Maverick is hauled up with Payback and Hangman on each arm while Coyote takes his legs. All around are cheers and claps, “Overboard! Overboard!”

“Great to see you, Pete!” Penny shouts, grinning from ear to ear as he disappears from her sights. His back meets the harsh sand, a grunt escaping him while everyone cheers. Hangman salutes him, unaware that in less than 24 hours the man he just threw out would be his superior. “Thanks for the beers! Come back anytime!” The door shuts behind them, muffling the cheers as they continue in the now crowded tavern. All Mav could do was chuckle, brushing the sand off him when he rises from the ground.

He starts walking in the direction of his bike, but comes to a sudden halt when a familiar song reaches his ears.

“You shake my nerves, and you rattle my brain.

Too much love. Drives a man insane.

You Broke my will. But what a thrill.

Goodness gracious! Great balls of fire!”

Mav walks up to the window, peeking in to find Rooster seated at the piano while his fellow recruits dance and belt along the lyrics beside him. Goose’s favorite song. The one they sang together at the bar the time Carole and Bradley visited during their programme.

“I laughed at love. ‘Cause I thought it was funny.

But you came along. And you moved me, honey.

I changed my mind. This love is fine.

Goodness gracious! Great balls of fire!”

For a moment, it was no longer 2019. It was 1986 and a two year old Bradley Bradshaw was seated on top of the piano with a cowboy hat perched on his tiny head while his father, Nick, played the instrument below. In Nick’s lap was his beloved wife and Bradley’s mother, Carole, and beside them belting along the lyrics of ‘Great Balls Of Fire,’ was Pete and Charlie.

A happy memory, plagued with the tragic moment that occurred days later. Goose and Mav ejecting from the jet, but the canopy failing to open properly causing Goose to smash his head against the glass. The impact alone was enough to kill him. The man laid in Maverick’s arms as they floated in the water waiting to be rescued. He knew Goose was gone.

“God, he loved flying with you, Maverick,” he could still hear Carole’s pained voice as he watched her son. The happiness radiating from him was a spitting image of his father. The pilot had to look away, for there were tears welting in his eyes. Unbeknownst to him, Penny saw him from inside the bar, her gaze flicking from Maverick to Goose, realizing who the young man was to the aviator.

Feeling his knees start to buckle, Maverick pushed away from the window, tears threatening to fall from his eyes. Reaching up, he wiped away any residue that leaked out before walking away. The sun was setting, casting a dark blue across the horizon as nightfall began to emerge. The Captain made his leave. As he approached the parking lot where his bike was, he stopped short when he noticed the bike parked next to him.

It was the Ducati he gifted Barbara when she got her motorcycle license at eighteen.

“I should’ve known it’d be you,” her voice came from the side, sending a wave of anxiety through Maverick as he stiffened. It had been so long since he heard it, and when he slowly turned to find her seated at the picnic table, Mav felt his shoulders drop.

Recently promoted Lieutenant Barbara ‘Legacy’ Mitchell stared back at him with an unreadable expression. A cigarette in hand and aviators perched on her head, the black haired beauty adorned a leather jacket similar to Mav’s with several patches lining its sides. A patch with her call sign was nested on her left breast reading, ‘Legacy’.

“Barb,” he whispered, watching her take a puff of the cigarette and holding her breath before slowly letting the smoke out. He hated the fact she smoked, and part of him believed she did it to spite him.

The woman didn’t greet her father. Instead she pointed her gaze at the beach in front of her, “When Ice told me I was being called back here, and what all to expect, I should’ve known he’d have you as the instructor. What I didn’t expect,” more smoke left her mouth, eyes going back to the man, ''was you to actually agree.”

Unsure of what to say, seeing it was going on four years since he’d seen his daughter, Mav cleared his throat, “Didn’t really have a choice in the matter.”

“Let me guess,” she raised her brow, but there was not a flicker of surprise as she added, “You went against orders, pissed off an Admiral, was probably gonna get sacked once and for all, and being here is what lets you stay in the air. Am I on the right track?”

Mav bit back a smirk. Barb knew him too well—well, at least knew his routine. Instead he gave a curt nod, glancing at the ocean briefly, “Can’t really say you’re not. You know me too well.”

“I don’t know you at all,” she snaps, causing the smile to drop from his face. Barb extinguishes the bud on the table and flicks it into the trash beside the table. “I know Captain Mitchell. The Navy’s infamous pilot with a record that’s distinguished despite his tendencies to act unorthodox. That’s all I’ve ever known from you.”

As much as he hated to admit it, it was the truth. The relationship between Charlie and Maverick fell through shortly after Barabara’s birth in 1989. Due to his status as a fighter pilot and rarely being stateside, Barbara was raised in D.C with her mother, Charlie. It was rare for Maverick to get time off and visit his daughter. Mostly in the summertime or around the holidays did he manage to get a few days of leave, but on average it was twice a year that Barabar spent time with her father. And when she did, all Mav did was take Barbara flying and teach her all there was about the Navy and their family.

It was how she fell in love with aviation. It made her feel a connection to her father, something she longed for as a child. Her mother taught her a lot about astrophysics and engineering, but Barbara loved to take to the skies. From a young age she knew she wanted to follow her father’s footsteps and continue his legacy. She thought it was what he wanted. Why he spent so much time teaching her the basics on how to fly and expressing his love for the Navy.

But that wasn’t the case. He didn’t want her flying. The same way he didn’t want Bradly flying either.

And that started the first wave of strain between father and daughter. The second wave came when Barb joined the Naval ROTC program at Vanderbilt university. Had she applied for the Naval Academy her father would’ve known. So, she applied to schools with NROTC and kept it from him until the letter came from Vanderbilt with a full ride to their program. Barbara would’ve kept her entire college career a secret, but her father managed to find out from her mother. That put a second dent in their relationship.

Shortly after Barbara reconnected with Bradley when the Naval Academy played Vanderbilt in football. It had been years since they saw each other, the last being around the time he had graduated high school and first applied to the Naval Academy. She never heard what had happened, so it surprised her to see him there as an undergraduate when she had expected him to already be a commissioned officer. He was a senior already in his mid twenties while Barb was a sophomore having just turned twenty.

Their reunion was anything but a happy one which had Barb confused. Bradley was displeased to see her and pretty much ignored her when she tried to talk to him. Eventually he got his head out of his ass when she went off on him by saying, “I don’t know what the fuck your problem is Bradshaw, but if has anything to do with my dad—which wouldn’t surprise me— then it’s unfair to treat me like this since I don’t know what the fuck he did to make you this angry.” Believing her words, Bradley invited her to lunch to explain what happened. It angered Barbara, for who was her father to have the right to do such a thing to Bradley.

Although they two didn’t see each other much after that weekend, the two kept in touch through email and phone calls. They would update each other on school and their programs, Bradley’s upcoming graduation, and their excitement to go to flight school and start their careers. Barbara wasn’t sure when her feelings for Bradley started. He was older, roughly by six or seven years and she only ever saw him once in a blue moon growing up whenever she’d fly to visit her dad when he’d try to spend time with both Bradley and her. As a young girl she found Bradley cute, but he of course paid no mind to her except when she’d join in on little adventures with him and Maverick. All she knew was she’d get butterflies in her stomach whenever he laughed at something she said or recounted a small detail she told him weeks prior. Then when he sent an invite to his graduation, Barbara swore her heart skipped a beat and she was doing the most in order to look her best the day of.

For Bradley, he realized his feelings for Barbara about eight months after their first meeting. He suddenly found himself looking forward to their phone calls, reading her emails, and felt a longing to see her again. It’s why he invited her to his graduation. And then again to his commissioning ceremony. Seeing her there, looking absolutely ethereal, sealed the deal for Bradley. At his commission he formally asked her out and thus started their relationship that lasted almost eight years.

Bradley went straight to flight school, and Barb followed two years later after her graduation and commissioned—which Bradley got time off to attend. At some point—probably when the two were drunk and in a festive mood, Bradley proposed. It was a spur of the moment decision, but he loved Barbara with his whole heart. And she loved him too. Once Barb said yes, the two went on a whim and drove up to the courthouse with Charlie and Natasha as their witnesses.

Maverick had no idea. It wasn’t until he popped in to visit Barbara out of the blue at her first duty station, hoping to make amends for the way he behaved four years earlier, and found Rooster there….and rings on their fingers. One photo of them at the courthouse combined with Barbara’s embarrassed expression was enough to put the pieces together. Rooster took it upon himself to leave saying he’d be back later that afternoon, but not before kissing her right there in front of Mav.

And so a third and permanent dent was put between the two. One that was not so easily forgiven. “Why the hell wouldn’t you tell me? Did you not want me there?” “It’s not like you would have come, Pete.” “You don’t know that!” “Fine, here’s the truth: Rooster didn’t want you there and honestly neither did I. We’re happy, and I don’t need your seal of approval on what I do. You were rarely there for me and when you were all it was ‘planes this, planes that’ and ‘Navy this, Navy that.’ You didn’t bother actually being a father, Pete.” Yeah, it was true when they said words hurt.

It only brought more strain. Soon it would impact her own relationship. Barbara completed flight school and unfortunately like most military marriages where both parties are active duty, the two were separated on different assignments. They made it work for the most part. Everyday they texted or emailed and when they got time to call or Skype they would. By that time Barbara had garnered her own reputation in the Navy, not just because of who her father was, but because she herself tended to act unorthodox. It was no wonder why her fellow aviators in flight school dubbed her ‘Legacy’. She didn’t know how they found out about her parentage, at the time she went by Barbara Bradshaw, but it didn’t matter. They’d find out sooner or later.

But the topic of Maverick would come up and each time it never ended well. Rooster still held resentment for him pulling his application. For Barbara, as much as she was angry at her father for various reasons, she still loved him. There was still a longing to have that father-daughter relationship she desired as a kid. When talking to her mother about it, Charlie offered the advice of, ‘It won’t be fixed if you do nothing about it. Talk to him, hear him out, and also take responsibility for your actions.” That night Barbara called Maverick, without telling her husband, and had a two hour conversation with her apologizing for not telling him about Rooster and Mav for his reaction to her career plans.

Barbara eventually told Rooster about her conversation with her father that weekend over Skype. She was hesitant, and judging by the look on his face when she told him she was correct to assume he would not be happy. All he said was, “You know how I feel about him. I’m not gonna stop you from talking to your dad, Barb, that’s on you. But I just ask that you don’t expect me to forgive him anytime soon.”

Years passed and things had slowly become complicated. Rooster went off to Top Gun, Barb was promoted to LTJG, and their jobs became more demanding. Although they finally got a duty station together, they hardly spent time together. At one point the topic of kids came up after a colleague had mentioned it at a dinner party. It resulted in it never being brought up again. If they wanted kids, well, one person would have to either leave the Navy or change their job because having both parents as fighter pilots while raising kids was impossible. And neither of them were ready to give that up just yet. In the last year of their marriage, they would go days without talking to each other, even if they were both home.

The year 2016 proved to be the one that would ultimately end the relationship once and for all. And it was because Barb had finally had enough with the deal between Maverick and Rooster and took it upon herself to confront her father. A decision she would regret.

“Tell me,” she demanded as they sat in a booth at a bar close to the base. Maverick had gotten leave and decided to drop by, so Barb used what little time she had as the opportunity to get the truth. “Tell me why you pulled his application, dad. Why would you stop him from flying when you knew that’s all he ever wanted to do?”

She watched him bring a hand up to rub his face. “You don’t want to know, Barb.” His words only angered her more, the woman scoffing as she narrowed her eyes.

“The hell I don’t! Bradley trusted you—he looked at you like a father, and you betrayed him like that?” She refused to accept that Maverick would hurt the man he saw as a son without good reason. If there was a good reason for it.

“He wasn’t ready,” Mav gave the excuse, though it had some truth to it.

“That wasn’t for you to decide,” she snapped, leaning forward against the table slightly. “And even if it was, that still isn’t a good excuse to pull his papers. You’re hiding something else.” Barb could see it in the way he kept turning from her, clenching his jaw, and attempting to change the subject. There was another reason behind why he did it.

“Look,” Mav sighed, giving his daughter a stern warning. “If you knew the real reason why I did what I did, you wouldn’t want him knowing either. So by telling you, you’re putting yourself in a position where you can either break his heart with the truth,” he paused, hating how there was now an ultimatum on the table. “Or, you spare him the pain by taking it to the grave.”

Barbara should have let it go after Mav dropped that on her. But, like the stubborn pilot, the young Mitchell was relentless and believed it was up to her then to decide for herself. Initially, she was going to tell Rooster the truth because she believed he deserved to know. But then the words came out, and Barb felt her heart and stomach sink as it went down the drain. There was no way she could tell Rooster now, and judging by Mavericks' expression the older man immediately regretted confessing. And she didn’t blame him because now she felt the burden of the secret.

For months Barbara kept it hidden. Rooster was overseas on an assignment and would not be back for some time. When they would call, Barb played it off like normal. Although they ended up doing voice calls rather than Skype, her excuse being the internet service was acting up. Barb felt it in herself that she’d break if she looked into those hazel eyes of his. She proved herself correct when he returned at the end of the summer and immediately Rooster could tell something was up. Her body language was off, the tone in her voice sounded unsure.

“What is it?” He asked a few days later, catching her off guard. In the five years they’d been married and almost seven as a couple, Bradley was pretty much a pro at picking up on signals from his wife. Barbara was stubborn and good at masking her emotions, but the man could see past it. “You’ve been acting weird since I got here.”

“It’s nothing, Bradley,” Barb assured, but her voice betrayed her. Quickly she gave the excuse, “I’ve had a long week. The test run I mentioned last week didn’t go as planned. That’s it.” She felt his eyes in the back of her head as she washed the dishes in the sink.

“Whenever something is bothering you and you don’t want to tell me, you always turn your back to me so I can’t see your face.” The patter of feet against the wooden floors indicated he was walking up to her. “You can’t fool me, Barbara.” What followed involved a screaming match, accusations, and finally, Bradley packing a bag before slamming the front door behind him.

There was no formal separation between the two. Hell it wasn’t even a verbal agreement of divorce. For weeks Bradley ignored her calls, her emails, he had his friends give excuses when Barb reached out to them to get him to talk to her. Then one day she decided to go to his work, fed up with him ignoring her and witnessed him getting a little close with a female colleague. All Barb could see was Bradley leaning against the wall while a pretty blonde stood next to him, laughing at something he said before lightly tapping him against the chest. The gesture looked anything but friendly. And judging by the smirk on her husband's face, he enjoyed it.

It sent daggers into Barbara’s heart, turning on her heel to escape before he saw her. She cried the entire drive home, but took a break to put on a serious face when she stopped at the legal office before making a call to her Godfather, Iceman. The next day, to Bradley’s surprise and the shock of his coworkers, he was served divorce papers. When he arrived at the house that afternoon to confront her, another shock came at the sight of boxes and suitcases where Barbara informed him she was being transferred to the Pacific Fleet.

That was the last night Barbara and Bradley saw each other. Harsh words were thrown at each other—the woman literally threw a water bottle at Rooster during the heat of the argument when he insulted her. He easily avoided it, but the act itself increased his anger. Once again Bradley was the first to leave, but not before he signed the papers and spat, “Have a nice life, Mitchell.”

Talk about adding salt to the wound. It didn’t help that Barbara hadn’t spoken to her father in months. Months that would soon turn to years.

Now here the two were. Finally face to face after so long with little to no explanation why Barbara suddenly stopped talking to Maverick after the day she squeezed the truth out of him. The music from inside continued. Even outside, Barbara could make out the voice of her ex-husband. He always stood out when he sang that song.

“Brings back memories, doesn’t it?” She says, reaching into her pocket to pull out another cigarette. Using her jacket to block out the wind, she ignites it before pocketing the lighter. “I saw you at the window.”

Mav felt a lump in his throat, looking down at his feet. Goose entered his mind and the wave of emotion hit him like a brick. He changed the subject, which probably was a bad idea but he had to take the chance while he had it. “What happened, Barbara?”

She doesn’t look at him when she answers, jaw tight and attention on the empty beer bottle in front of her. “Exactly what you said,” the chuckle she gave was anything but humorous. “I did it to myself. You were right—I should’ve never asked you why you did it.”

Maverick sighed, feeling his heart break at her confession. “I’m so sorry, honey. Does he—.”

“No,” she cut him off swiftly. “I couldn’t bring myself to tell him. That's why he walked out.” Biting her lip and looking away from her father, she adds, “And I let him. Because I knew deep down he would never forgive me—for not telling him after I went behind his back and confronted you. It brought on another dose of betrayal.” Barbara finishes her second cigarette with a long drag before extinguishing it.

“It wasn’t going to work anyway,” Barbara stands from the picnic table, moving to stand in front of Maverick. She was wearing heeled boots that made her taller than her natural five foot two and a half inch stature. She was small for the average pilot, but made the height requirements by half an inch. “You know how it is—husband and wife, both active duty in demanding fields with little to no time spent together. The topic of kids being a sore subject, plus a father-in-law that the husband can’t stand? I’m surprised we lasted as long as we did.”

“Don’t think of it like that, Barbara,” Maverick scolded, upset with her view of the marriage. Frowning, he stepped closer to the woman, but she shook her head.

“How else am I supposed to think of it?” She questioned rhetorically. “It didn’t work for you and mom, it wasn’t going to work for me and him.”

“What happened between your mom and I was complicated,” Mav told her. “We tried our best that year after you were born, and most of it was on me as you know.” He really did try. He loved and cared for Charlie, but marriage was not in the cards for Mav at the time. It was still young in his career and although the birth of Barbara was a surprise, he still was over the moon and tried to make the relationship work for the sake of their daughter. In the end, he and Charlie wanted different things and had to go their separate ways. “But I never stopped caring for Charlie—and I’ll always have a part of me that loves her. And just because it didn’t work out for us, doesn’t mean it will always be like that for you, Barbara.”

She was silent for a moment. Maverick stood still, unsure of what she was thinking. He wanted to hug her. It was tempting to just pull her into his arms and hold her like he did when she was a child. It had been so long since they did that he feared how she’d react. Pushing the thought away, Mav heard her exhale and say, “It doesn’t matter anymore. There’s other things to worry about than my tragic love life. I’ll see you tomorrow, Captain.”

It felt like a knife was thrown to his chest. It was always like that when Barbara referred to him as his rank or name instead of ‘dad’. It was like she no longer saw him as such. “Barbara!” He shouted as she mounted her bike and kicked the stand up. Glancing up to him, her face remained stoic. With a slight cough to clear his throat, Mav tried to smile but it didn’t work. Instead his face almost looked like he was pleading with her to not push him away again. “It’s good to see you.”

The light breeze swept through her hair, and Barbara gave a short nod. “It’s good to see you too.” The roar of the engine came to life and Mav watched her pull away from the lot before speeding down the road and disappearing around the corner. The sun had finally set, stars twinkling in the sky and the only light was from the moon shining down on the sea and the bar behind him.

With a heavy sigh, the pilot adjusted his jacket and mounted his own bike. He gave one last look to the bar before starting the engine and taking off on the same road Barbara had traveled.

What a day it had been for the veteran aviator. It started with him getting transfered, returning to Top Gun for the first time in 30 years, reuniting with his ex, and finally seeing Rooster and Barbara again. Now with one reunion down, he had one to go.

The next morning, Barbara Mitchell dressed in her flight suit to start her day by attending the first briefing and training. She didn’t know what to expect. After the previous night's conversation with her father and knowing he was to be the instructor for the next three weeks, Barbara realized she was going to have to push her limits like she’s never done before if she wanted to prove she was worthy of the mission.

Growing up, Maverick taught her the basics and how to perfect them so that by the time she went to flight school she was already more advanced than her classmates. The young Mitchell took it upon herself to learn aerial combat—when she was not supposed to—and managed to fly her way to the top of her class at Top Gun years later. With years of experience and having Iceman as her superior for the past few years, Barbara proved herself again and again to those who underestimated that she was the best there was.

It was Iceman who told her Rooster would be one of the candidates for the mission. He warned her the same time he informed that she was also selected. It sparked a sense of dread in the aviator. It was one thing to have to reunite with her ex-husband for the first time in three years, it was another to have to compete against him for a spot on the six-man team. With her father as the instructor, it was going to be an interesting three weeks.

Having opted out of going inside The Hard Deck last night, arriving at the hangar was the first time she became acquainted with her fellow candidates. “Well, well well,” Hangman’s voice was the first to reach her ears, “Just who I was hoping to see on this fine Wednesday morning.” While they waited for the instructors, the officers took seats at the tables provided in the middle of the hangar. Barbara was the last to arrive.

It brought a cheeky grin to Hangman’s face, giving a brief glance to Rooster, who had his head turned to the side. The lieutenant stood from his chair, meeting Barbara halfway up the aisle of tables. The first thing he did was look at her name patch, where the name ‘Mitchell’ was embroidered. Jake smirked, towering over the small brunette, “Lieutenant Barbara Mitchell.”

The woman narrowed her eyes, but greeted the man nonetheless, “Seresin.” Turning her head to the left, she makes eye contact with Natasha, “Hey, Phee.”

Nat gives a small smile with a nod, “Hey, C.” Barb tilts her head to the man with glasses behind the woman, “Who’s your friend.”

“That’s Bob, WSO.” The man in question lightly lifts a hand in a small wave, offering a smile to Barb. She smiles back, throwing a wink which has him blushing. “Those two hunks are Payback and Fanboy—I don’t think you’ve met them yet.”

“I have not,” she looks past Hangman to see the two men. They both give a gesture in greeting. “Nice to meet ya, fellas.”

“Same to you,” Payback replies and Fanboy nods in agreement. Barbara pays no mind to the man seated on her right, instead going to the open chair in the front next to Hangman’s. She ignores the looks they give Rooster, throwing down her wallet and keys on the table and plopping down on the chair.

Hangman sits beside her, leaning close and aware of the daggers being sent to his back from Rooster. “So, Mitchell—gosh that’s gonna take some getting used to,” It took everything in Barb to stop herself from throwing a punch to his jaw. They were in uniform and on the job. Now was not the time to get a demerit. “This is probably not the time to ask—.”

“Then don’t ask, Seresin,” she hissed in warning, assuming the question involved Rooster. He raised his hands in defense as he chuckled, “Hey, hey, now I’m not trying to dig up an old can of worms, but I’m just curious you know.” He gestured to her patch, “Can’t you let a fella in on what the secret is behind your call sign? I’ve only ever known you as Mrs. Bradshaw—but that couldn’t have been it.” He leans back to wink at an infuriated Rooster.

Barbara tsks, staring ahead at the large American flag draped in front of her. “Nice to see you haven’t changed at being a pain in the ass. You’re lucky we’re in uniform, Hangman, otherwise I would wipe that damn smirk off your face. Didn’t your momma ever tell you to mind your business once in a while?” she said in a low tone, but the whole company heard. In the back Coyote let out a whistle while Fanboy, Phoenix and Bob held back laughter. Rooster even had to stop himself from smirking.

Before Hangman could respond, the whole hangar was brought to attention at the shout of, “Attention on deck!!” The Admirals march in, Warlock taking to the podium while Cyclone comes to a halt beside Hondo.

“Morning,” Warlock greets the officers. “Welcome to your special training detachment. Be seated.” Chairs squeak as the group falls back to a sitting position, posture straight and attention on the admiral. “I’m Admiral Bates, NAWDC commander. You’re all TOPGUN graduates. The elite. The best of the best,” many grin at his praises, but they soon frown when he then says, “That was yesterday. The enemy's new fifth-generation fighter has leveled the playing field. Details are few, but you can be sure we no longer possess the technological advantage. Success, now more than ever, comes down to the man or woman in the box.” Still grinning, Hangman bids a look to Legacy before doing the same to Phoenix.

“Half of you will make the cut. One of you will be named mission leader. The other half will remain in reserve. Your instructor is a TOPGUN graduate with real world experience in every mission aspect you will be expected to master,” Barbara tenses, clutching the pen in her hand when she hears the soft sound of footsteps approaching. Warlock continues, “His exploits are legendary. And he’s considered to be one of the finest pilots this program has ever produced.”

In the corner of her eye Barbara sees Hangman turn in his chair, at first excited to see the instructor. But then the second he realizes who the man walking up the aisle was, the blonde brings a hand to his face and turns away in embarrassment. Having witnessed him, Coyote, and Payback throw her father out of the bar the previous night, it took every inch of her soul to not react at their shame. They were about to find out who he was to her, and she knew it was going to have everyone looking at her differently.

“What he has to teach you may very well mean the difference between life and death. I give you Captain Pete Mitchell,” the second the last name leaves Warlock's mouth, Handman’s head is snapping towards her. He’s not the only one. Phoenix’s expression is one of shock, as is Fanboy’s. Payback whistles under his breath, and Bob just looks confused—not really putting two and two together just yet. But Barbara remains stoic, unreactive. “Call sign: ‘Maverick’.”

Maverick replaces Warlock at the podium, “Good morning,” he smiles at the group, particularly at the three who threw him out of the hard deck the night before. They all smile back, embarrassment and awkwardness in the gesture. Hangman gives another glance to Barbara when he catches Maverick nodding to her. Then the man looks at Rooster, who turns away from his gaze with an unreadable expression.

With a thick book in his hand, Maverick draws everyone's attention to it as he lifts it level with his head, “The F-18 NATOPS.” He pats the top before placing it onto the podium. “It contains everything they want you to know about your aircraft. I’m assuming you know the book inside and out.”

“Damn right!” Payback shouts with pride. Others follow in suit with “Damn straight.” “You got it!”

Maverick nods, smiling before surprising them all—minus Barbara—by dropping the book into the trash can beside him. Barbara shakes her head, expecting it from her father. Cyclone and Warlock share a look. “So does your enemy.”

“And we’re off,” Hondo sighs from the side. Like the Captain’s daughter, Hondo had worked with Maverick long enough to know how he played.

“But what the enemy doesn’t know is your limits. I intend to find them, test them, push beyond.” Feeling the pressure rise, some candidates straighten their posture. Mav looks at each of them as he lists off the day's plans, but his eyes linger on both Rooster and Barbara, “Today we’ll start with what you only think you know. You show me what you’re made of.”

When they are dismissed and Mav takes the chance to leave the podium, the sound of Hangman’s light laughter captures everyone’s attention. “Something funny, Lieutenant?”

Still seated, Hangman licks his lip before saying, “Oh nothing, Captain Mitchell. I think I just got my answer to why our Legacy here,” he turns his head to Barbara, whose jaw was tight and looking anywhere but him. “Got her name in the first place.”

[persephone11110]

Gaining Another Pilot

parental tom kazansky x reader

Warnings: past child abuse, child neglect, abadoment, slight injuries, low self esteem in self, parental tom kazansky

Summary: Reader got accustomed to being self sufficient as a little girl, always stitching herself, making her own food—depending and relying on only herself. She was alot older than the daggers, older than Bradley, she doesn’t need help anymore….doesn’t deserve it. What if Iceman showed her it was okay to be dependent on others.

callsign: Athena , Last Name: Matthews

- readers a captain, and Pete was promoted to Admiral after the successful uranium mission.

- instead of canon bradley being Maverick’s wingman, Reader is. in TPGM: Bradley’s 38 so Reader is 44

-

Ice was awoken to a phone call at 3’oclock in the morning, his eyes still crusted, still in pajamas. “Yes this is he, Admiral Kazansky”.

He slipped a kiss to Maverick who’s dead asleep on the bed tired still exhausted from the uranium mission. Out of karma he assumed , Ice’s bones cracked reminding of his age, and all the times he ejected during a mission.

Ice’s footsteps creaked down the stairs as he walked down them leading himself to the front door leaving to go and get a pilot of his.

Yet, when he entered the kitchen he was reminded of a man he met three decades ago, a man who was husband who acted just like he was going to go see.

Leaving him a little a note that read “ Cpt Athena Matthew”.

Ice nodded his head acknowleding the person in charged of Athena’s case”Doctor Masons”.

The doctor raised her eyes from the file”Admiral, I was guessing it was going to be you seeing that Admiral Mitchell was here a couple of weeks ago”

He thought back to couple of weeks ago, Maverick almost died—Ice almost buried his friend, and husband; the man thats make getting up ten times easier.

The amount of times he spent in the waiting room waiting to hear his husband was alive after pulling dangerous stunts.

And when he had cancer. The aggressive chemotherapy, fainting spells, a time were Ice and Maverick believed Ice was spending the summer underground.

Pushing his thoughts back soley focusing on Athena and only her.

“How’s Captain Matthews” Ice looked at her hospital door as if he had xray vision to see her.

“Her last ejection gave her level 1 concussion, and broken hand, thankfully thats all she suffered from were grounding her for three days and after that she needs to comeback for reevaluation” Doctor Masons read off the file.

“But I will say this Tom, there are injuries that healed incorrectly due to lack of medical care… something that happens to a child”. With those words the doctor left Ice alone infront of Athena’s room.

He knew what those injuries meant he had some himself. Injuries that have gone untreated and they heal forcefully wrong.

Ice also knew what felt to feel nothing, to feel like nothing, unworthy of love. He wasn’t about to allow his kid to feel it too, Ice would walk through hell if it meant showing Athena how much she means to the team, to him and Maverick.

He pushed the door open, expecting a sleeping pilot not a woman packing her small luggage.

She stopped like a deer caught in headlights“Sir”, Athena turning around ready to salute.

“Were not at work Athena” he reminded her gently. “Looks like your escaping”, again something Maverick has done too many times to count, more and more times Ice thinks this kid related to his husband.

“Ice, and no not escaping just preparing myself to leave”

Ice stood near the bed“Mhm” he inspected her eyes, they were blank—lacking guilt, anger, remorse. Facade Ice said to himself, fully knowing this was going to take awhile—her reputation proceeded her as heartless monster who didn’t care.

Ice knew better, its the reflection of a little girl who wasn’t cared for as a child, a little girl who spent more time in the hospital than outside. A child who knew how to do makeup as it sole purpose was to hide bruises.

“How are you doing kiddo?”

“Fine” Athena answered automatically.

Stubborn as a bull, maybe even worse.

He’s going have to try another angle, this isn’t working.

“Athena, cut the bullshit” he said staring at her sternly, “Want to tell me why you jeopardized the mission” he asked her, but God did this make his heart hurt more. He didn’t give a damn about the mission, only about his kid.

She sat up straighter than an arrow, her eyes glimmering with nothing“Admiral Kazansky I’m deeply sorry, send me on another mission, or punish me and I’ll prove to you that I am sorry Sir” he watched her eyes grow darker again.

He needed a bottle of scotch, and to kill whoever put those words into Athena’s head.

Who told Athena that her life was so worthless?

Who told her she didn’t deserve to tell her side first?

Athena’s facade was still holding up, yet he was getting closer to breaking it.

“Captain Matthews, explain to me why you stayed behind the other pilots when they left? to go to safety?” Ice questioned her, turning his back from her walking to the window staring out of it.

“Sir I was told to complete the mission unless there was danger around me, I’ve flown many missions while in danger and have still finished successfully”, her voice growing colder as she spoke yet Ice could hear confusion leaking into in her voice.

“Yes, you finished the mission Captain but at what cost?” he asked her turning to face her“Your life was at stake”. he getting ready to open his mouth when Athena cut him off.

“It would be better sir” she spoke “Better than the others, no point of wasting taxpayers billions of dollars”

Blood ran cold in Ice’s body he wasn’t mad at her he never was. He was mad at the people that have made Athena think her life was expendable.

He wanted to pace his anger out, but fearing he would scare the younger captain.

She looked back up at him again her eyes now scared and fearful.“Sir I like to turn my wings in”.

“I don’t want this to happen again, I don’t want waste anyone’s time or money”.

Ice’s heart broke into more pieces, how dare someone made her think like this.

He sat down on the bed —his face softened.

“Athena look at me please” her eyes staring into his waiting for an punishment to be given.

She was ready, ready to bare her skin.

“You are worthy”, Athen shoke her head, allowing tears to slip down her face. She looked away from him desperately wanting him not see her vulnerable.

“You are worthy”

“You are worthy”

Your loved, your not broken”

A sob cut off Ice speaking, “I-Im sorry” she said again but more emotional this time.

“Come here” he told her, she threw face into his chest.

More sobs came, they got louder before she calmed.

“Shh, shh sweetheart don’t want you fainting” Ice told her sweetly“Minor injuries don’t mean anything your still healing”.

His shirt drench in tears, yet he didn’t give a shit.

“Hold on kiddo, let me text Mav” he told slightly letting her go so he could text.

Ice: I secured the kid

Ice waited for his husband to reply.

Maverick: I figure you could wrangle her better than me, she may fly like me but she has your cold exterior.

Maverick was right she flew dangerous, yet hardly expressed her emotions. But her and Ice are going to work on that together,slowly getting her to open up.

Ice: Look like we have another kid, who’s gonna tell Baby Goose he isn’t the eldest anymore?

Ice kissed her head as he leaned his face down.

Maverick: Duck duck Goose, can’t be me Mr. Kazanksy. I’m busy being Admiral :(

His foolish husband forgets he’s the COMPACFLT.

Ice: You are honey, and set up a room for her.

Maverick: okay okay I will and I’m already working on the room.

Ice: Love you Pete

Maverick: Love you too Tom

Later tonight he’s walking out the hospital with a kid again.

What is with this hospital and Ice, Maverick adopting kids?

Who’s knows.

[callmemana]

The Marked Ones MList:

*Coming 20-*

Characters:

Summary: some escaped over the years, some didn’t make it through the first procedure, some are still hiding in the shadows hoping to not get caught.

Those who are caught can be seen with a number on their arms and treated like trash.

A/N:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

Meet the Characters:

Alana Metcalf|Bradley Bradshaw

Amanda Pruitt|LTJG. Leonard Wolfe

Baylie Pruitt|LT. Richard Neven

Cmdr. Jade Kerner|Cpt. Ronald Kerner

Cmdr. Rachael Kazansky|ADM. Thomas Kazansky

Grace Lowe|Cpt. Pete Mitchell

Josephine Harlan|LTJG. Marcus Williams

Cpt. Grace Bradshaw|Cpt. Nicholas Bradshaw

Rebecca Rogers|LT. Charles Piper

Dragon’s Angels📻: @dragon-kazansky @mrsjaderogers @gracespicybradshaw @bayisdying @starlit-epiphany

Birdie’s Basket: @mrsjaderogers

🏷️ list:

[randoauthor]

Baking Cookies (B.B)

Pairings: Rooster x Reader, Platonic!Bob x Reader, Ex!Hangman x Reader, Platonic!Pheonix x Reader, Platonic! Maverick x Reader

Warnings: swearing, Rooster being adorable, fluff sweater then the chocolate chip cookies!

Word Count: 1.2K

Author's Note: Hii everyone! The next chapter of Love Letters to No One should be out in the next day or so! I just started two new jobs so I am trying to balance that along with everything else! For now though please enjoy this super sweet fic as an apology for not having the next part of LLTON done yet!

"Mav, (y/n)'s baking again!" Bob called out from the common space, worry airing in his voice.

You've been in the shared space kitchen since the clock read 4:56 a.m. After about four cups of coffee, you have a wonderful spread of delicious desserts ranging from brownies to cupcakes, and you had a bowl of cookie dough in front of you.

"I'm fine Bob just heartbroken." You say with a sign.

It's not every day that your Naval Aviator boyfriend goes to visit his dad. And end up in bed. With a flight attendant.

"(Y/n), ya know it's always better to talk about it," Mav said, moving to sit at the bar stool in front of you, "I mean all of us enjoy the baked goods you make but please, when was the last time you slept?"

You don't look up from the bowl you have been violently stirring for the past few minutes. "It's not like it matters, I have yet to cause an accident in the sky." Bob and Pheonix begin to cautiously move in.

"Just because you haven't caused one yet (y/n), doesn't mean you won't," Pheonix said, her eyes filled with sorrow. "You need rest."

You let out a soft chuckle, why did everyone care now? When Jake came home with a hickey why did no one care then?

You were going to open your mouth to say something when the door came flying open.

"Damn does it smell good in here!" Rooster's tan face came beaming into the room, clearly unaware of how to read one. "(y/n) you baking again?" He gave me a questioning glance.

"(Y/n) hasn't slept in days. Actually, all she has been doing is baking. Since Hangman got home a week ago." Bob said reaching for a slice of fudge. Rooster sent a glance from your annoyed face to the bowl you were still stirring. "Ya know hangman isn't all that great (y/n)."

Looked up at graze past all the worried faces you finally land on Rooster, and that man is standing there, with a smile on his face.

"You know you don't have to be cocky about this right Rooster? I know you've said you hate that we are together, and believe me even when your lips weren't moving your facial expressions clearly said it." You spit.

Ever since the mission ended you and hangman had been seeing each other. From the late-night phone calls to the secret glances at each other during briefings, and even the jokes you guys share. You two were inseparable.

So when you walked into the door of your apartment and found a pair of heels on the floor.

You never wear heels. Let alone heels that cost at least 400 dollars. And you don't smell like a rose. And you knew for a fact that the giggling from your bedroom wasn't coming from you.

Tears were pricking your eyes. You needed to stop the conversation. You needed to leave the room. "you know what screw it, I'm going to bed." Pheonix and Bob were happily munching on whatever sweet treats were left gave you a concerning look but don't go to press the topic anymore.

"(Y/n) wait!" You didn't care that Rooster was calling behind you.

"Shit (Y/n) I didn't know you were on your way home." Jake scrambled to stand off the bed. The girl below him avoided eye contact. "I promise this isn't what it looks like."

You didn't care.

"You have five minutes Jake, get your shit and get out of my home." Anger boiled in your stomach your eyes pricked with tears and you move your eyes from him to her. "And I highly suggest that next time you go to fuck someone else's partner maybe don't wear such expensive items." The girl nodded fearfully as you turned on your heel and walked. All the way out of your apartment.

A soft knocking at your door pulls you from your thoughts. As the brown-haired boy popped his head into the room. "Hey, (y/n)." You nod subtly, acknowledging his presence as he takes a seat next to you on the bed, as he holds a napkin in his large hand.

“Are you okay?” He looks over at you sparingly and you nod slightly sniffling back tears.

“I just I thought Jake was the one. And then he pulls something like that.” You said solemnly. Rooster puts a arm around your shoulder and pulls you two closer together. “Do you wanna know something funny?” He asks glancing down at you.

“As long as it’s not I told you so then yeah go for it.” He chuckled and started rubbing softly up an down your arm. “I think you are pretty awesome, and I know it’s probably gonna take you a very long time to even want to start thinking about dating again but I want you to know once you are ready I am here.” You look at him questioningly praying that he continues.

And he does.

“Look (y/n), I think you are awesome and the only reason I gave you to cocky attitude while you and Jake were together was because I knew deep down he wasn’t the right one for you. I knew eventually he’d fuck up and you’d get hurt and I don’t want that. Ever.”

He opens his hand promptly showing you two chocolate chip cookies wrapped in a napkin. “ I finished them up with the help of Phoenix once you left. You giggle.

“I really am sorry (y/n).” You cut him off by kissing his cheek lightly, but enough that his tan cheeks turn to a pinkish tint.

Grabbing a cookie out of his hand and take a bite, the fact that they are still warm making it taste a hundred times better.

“Hey I think they taste a little burnt.” You joke, Rooster clearly not catching on, “oh, oh god, did I ruin the cookies? I am so sorry if I ruined the cookies I know you worked so hard on them and I didn’t even think so figure out proper time or anything like that and I just—“

Rooster glances down at you, fast asleep on his shoulder. He gently pulls the cookie out of your hand and takes both of them back into the napkin, setting it softly on the side table.

———————————————————————————

Maverick, Phoenix, nor Bob had heard anything from Rooster or (y/n) in a while. “Do you draw sticks?” Phoenix questions, making Maverick laugh. "No Phoenix, I’ll go check on them."

Creeping slowly down the hallway he comes to (y/n)’s room, knocking softly on the door. But when a response doesn’t come he leaks his head in quietly to find you and Rooster. Out cold leaning up against your wall. He smiles as he shuts the door softly retreating back to the others.

“(Y/n)‘s asleep and surprisingly so is Rooster.” Maverick chuckles.

“At least (y/n)’s finally sleeping,” Phoenix started to say before the smell of smoke flooded her nostrils, “Shit the cookies!”

Bob frantically retrieves them burnt discs from the oven setting them on the stove top.

And while you and Rooster are past out in your bedroom, the other three agree to never let that moment leave the three of them.

Tag list!

@itscheybaby, @turningtoclown, @daryldixonstorm, @dilfsandtherapy, @Nickie-amore, @malindacath, @luckyladycreator2, @sadpetalsstuff, @Shanimallina87, @wishingwell-2, @xoxoloverb, @majormaybe1, @mizzy-pop

[randoauthor]

Secrets (B.B)

Pairings: Rooster x Reader, Platonic!Hangman x Reader

Warnings: the possibility of death, like so much fluff

Word Count: 1.6K

Author's Note: This was one of the prompts I posted a month ago! Here is that link in case you want to request a prompt! @itscheybaby requested this one so I hope you enjoy it! :)

Summary: Jake was supposed to be your confidant. Jake has a big mouth which you tend to forget.

MasterList!

It was a drunken night.

You and Hangman had been hanging out and you had one to many to drink and you let it slip that you were in love with Rooster.

Hangman promised he wouldn't say anything to anyone, swearing to be too drunk to remember it the next morning anyway.

So the look displayed on his face right now combined with the crimson of yours made it blatantly obvious that neither of you had forgotten that night or the secrets that came with it.

This was the third special detachment mission that you guys had been brought in on. At this point you were more like family than anything else, spending more time with each other than your own flesh and blood.

That's probably how you got into this mess.

You had ended up at Hangman's a couple nights back, the two of you downing beers like they were bottles of water, and someone (Hangman) brought up crushes.

He had been trying to get it out of you for a while, pestering you at work mostly.

"Come on," he whined, his words slurring together, "I just wanna know!"

You laughed before giving a sigh, glancing over to find slumped on the floor beer bottle on the table, a stupid smile plastered to his face.

"Fine," you say with a giggle, "but if they ever find out I will end you."

Hangman nodded sharply as you roll your eyes.

"It's Rooster."

How you found yourself here you have no idea. Hangman's eyes grew wide as he realized the words that left his mouth. You were gonna hurt him.

You had all been sitting in the briefing room of the ship. Sweating your asses off as a random admiral droned on and on about the task that you had trained mercifully for the prior month.

Each and every detachment was the same.

The Navy catches word that some evil power somewhere in the world was up to no good and they bring in the best of the best when it comes to their pilots, you all find yourselves on North Island, most of you have just settled down there with the frequency that you were brought back. As previously mentioned you guys spend more time with each other than with your own families.

The detachment however was different. This was a two-person mission, and they expected only one of you to make it home alive. They had written our death sentences four days prior, the night you and Hangman got shitfaced in his living room, the night you let it slip.

Hangman was known for being cocky, he was known for talking back. He was your favorite person on the face of this planet, you went to him for everything and he protected you more than he did with the others. You guys had created a bond that not very many knew about, which is why you went to him after your meeting that morning.

"(Y/n), hey, whatcha doin here it's late?" Hangman seemed surprised to see you standing on his porch at 10 pm. You had been crying, trying your hardest to wrap your mind around the words you had heard a few hours prior.

"We brought all of you back," Admiral Bates said, his head held high. "We knew this mission would be the toughest you guys have dealt with so far."

You already knew that you were one of the two pilots flying, you and Mav had been chosen, they had told you prior to the group meeting to save the breakdown for the privacy of where you were living.

"They picked me." You said softly, tears rolling down your face again.

Hangman knew what that meant. He knew you might not come home. So he gave you a warm smile and once you made it past the threshold of his door he offered you a hug, and then you guys drank until you couldn't feel your faces.

Hangman couldn't shake it though. He knew he might lose his best friend that was the line of work they were in, but he couldn't stand the thought of his best friend not getting their happy ending before they died.

You had first noticed his snippy attitude the next day, you had chalked it up to him being worried about you. You understood why once he got into it with an Admiral, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, in one of the hottest rooms on the ship, your death slowly lurking in the corner. Hangman's attitude was particularly bad today and finally, someone had had enough of it, calling him out on it the second his snarky comment left his lips.

"It's just not fair okay," he said, slamming his hands on the table and standing up, this sudden outburst concerned everyone. "You get to send people to their death without a second thought, you have little to no regard for their lives or what they do for you!" He shouted, his finger pointed right at the man in charge.

"Okay," the admiral said with a sigh, "what am I missing?"

You and the other pilots shared nervous glances with each other, Hangman can be cocky yes but this was a new level for him.

"It's not just you," Hangman said, turning his attention to Rooster, "it's you too!"

Rooster shot him a confused glance, every scene where he had recently fucked up running through his head. Hangman continued.

"They are madly in love with you and you don't even care."

Your heart sank, and the room grew quieter.

"Who is in love with me Hangman?" Rooster said, adjusting himself in his seat.

"Oh my god," Hangman groaned, "(Y/n) does!"

Oh shit.

Hangman stood, eyes wide, frozen in his place. Rooster sat, eyes even wider, watching your every move. You sunk, face bright red, hoping, no begging, god to just kill you now.

The attention was on you, Hangman's sorry expression displayed fully on his face as he cleared his throat and sat down, eyes glued to his lap.

"Anyway," you say softly, "I hate to cut this short but I would rather just go get in my plane and hope they get me and not Mav." You stood up, giving what appeared to be the room a sharp nod before turning on your heel and leaving. The room remained silent for a moment more before Hangman grew impatient again.

"Jesus man, go after them!"

Rooster gave a nod before trying his hardest to catch up to you, finding it to be too late because once he reached the deck he found you already in your plane, people helping you with your controls, making sure the plane you were about to fly was safe and all clear.

You never even said goodbye.

Your eyes found him as he stood within the crowd, sadness displaying his entire face as he watched you. You wave him over, watching as he climbs the ladder.

"Hey," he said softly looking you up and down.

You give him a soft smile in response.

"You know you never gave me a chance to respond earlier." Rooster said with a smile, you shook your head slightly before looking at him.

"I don't need to sit there and watch you tell me you don't feel the same." You say, sadness dancing throughout your voice.

"Who said I didn't feel the same?" He said with a smile.

You began to say something, but nerves from multiple simultaneous situations happening at once proved to hinder that ability.

"Hey," He grabbed your attention, his hand placed gently on top of yours, "I can kiss you when you get back, but I don't want you putting your life on the line because you think I don't feel the same."

You laughed slightly before getting the signal that it was time, you looked to Rooster, fear laced in your eyes. He gave your hand a comforting squeeze before having to climb down the ladder watching as you take off, hoping that you make it home.

And you did.

The detachment with as well as it possibly could have, neither you nor Mav had been noticed by enemy aircraft until you were almost home and by then it was too late for them to do anything.

You were flooded by ship hands as you climbed out of your plane, the chaos of 'congratulations' and 'so good to see you again' as they all celebrated yet another successful mission. You frantically searched for Rooster, hoping to continue the conversation from earlier.

A warm hand on your shoulder alerted you to his whereabouts as you turned around to face him, his smile as bright as ever as his hands found your hips, his eyes studying your face. You didn't waste another moment before you grabbed him by the back of his neck and pulled his lips to yours. The cheers seemed to get loud by the time you two pulled apart but you only managed to find Hangman, who was smiling like a proud dad with his thumbs up.

You and Rooster chuckled before looking at each other again, you offer Rooster one more smile before he pulls you into another kiss.

"So," Hangman's voice cut the moment you shared short. "I'm sorry, are we okay?"

You laughed, "of course Hangman, that doesn't mean I won't hurt you though."

He smiled.

"I guess that's fair, though I am sure you'll get me back eventually."

You finally pulled him in for a hug, his stature softening as he gripped you even harder back.

"I'm happy to have you home," Hangman said.

"It's good to be home," you replied.

Rooster pulled at you one more time, kissing you again before smiling. You smiled right back at him before glancing around at your friends.

They were more like family to you than your own flesh and blood at this point, and they all watched, beaming joyfully at the situation in front of them.

Taglist!

@itscheybaby

@turningtoclown

@daryldixonstorm

@Dilfsandtherapy

@Nickie-amore

@malindacath

@luckyladycreator2

@sadpetalsstuff

@Shanimallina87

@Wishingwell-2

@Xoxoloverb

@Majormaybe1

@Mizzy-pop

@Saramaple

@Hope-love-equality2

@toothhurtyam

@beaner-life-23

@fogle97

@justanothermagicalsara

@tallrock35

@callsigns-roo-and-bag

@marchingicenotes7

@scoopsahoy008

@oxxolovemelikeyoudooxxo

@malindacath

@calsjack

@notanordinaryprincess95

@fxngsfxgxrty

@louisahale

[randoauthor]

MasterList!

Author's Note: Please keep in mind this is the Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick specific Masterlist! if I ever write for any other universes they will get their own Master list!

Love Letters to No One

Part One: Lost Boys

Part Two: Three's a Party

Part Three: Crazy=Genius

Part Four: Winner Gets a Kiss

Part Five: Braddles

Part Six: A Broken Heart. Again.

Part Seven: Give ‘Em Hell

Part Eight: Dagger One

Bradley Bradshaw One Shots

Photos (B.B)

Baking Cookies (B.B)

Baby Bradshaw (B.B)

Take A Chance on Me (B.B)

I Love You (B.B)

Not What I Expected (B.B)

Little Yellow Onesie (B.B)

Puppy Love? (B.B)

Bob One Shots

Slow Burn (R.F)

Kiwi (R.F)

Swimsuit Model (R.F)

Home. (R.F)

A Quiet Place (R.F)

Hangman One Shots

Kinda Hot and Very Bothered (J.S)

Cake Batter (J.S)

When Will I See You Again (J.S)

Bagman (J.S)

Phoenix One Shots

Ashes to Ashes (N.T)

On the Rocks (N.T)

Strawberry Blond (N.T)

Lost (N.T)

Maverick One Shots

As the Caged Bird Sings (P.M)

Travelin' Soldier (P.M)

Pretty White Dress (P.M)

Pete Meets You (P.M)

3 a.m (P.M)

Hurt (P.M)

[randoauthor]

I Love You (B.B)

Pairings: Rooster x Reader

Warnings: none!

Word Count: 699

Author's Note: this was super cute and fun to write!

Summary: Bradley has to go on a mission leaving you behind on the carrier.

MasterList!

You knew this was a possibility when you agreed to a date Rooster. Yet you couldn't stop yourself from letting a few tears slip as he loaded into his F-18. Rooster gave you a sad smile as his team helped him get situated. Leaving you a few minutes to say your final goodbye before the roof closed. You climbed the ladder, you were exhausted, and the bags under your eyes showed evidence of that. To Rooster though, you were as beautiful as the first day you two met.

"Hi," You say softly examining the pilot in the plane next to you. He seemed shocked at first but then the boy smiled and introduced himself, "Hey, I'm Bradley Bradshaw, call sign Rooster." He extended his hand and so you climbed down the ladder before shaking his hand, "(y/n) (y/l), calling Slapshot. It's a pleasure to meet you." You say taking notice as he eyes you up and down. "Believe me Slapshot, the pleasure is all mine."

Bradley took your cheek gently in his hand which causes a few tears to fall from your eyes, he wipes one away before giving you a sad smile. "I'll be home before sunset, Slapshot." He said, with some doubt in his voice. Neither of you wanted to admit it but both of you were aware that there was a possibility that he wasn't gonna make it home. "Don't make promises you can't keep Roos." You say, your voice horse from crying last night.

"Roos you can't go it's a suicide mission." The shock lingers in the air, "I know, but it's not like I can go hey Admiral, sorry but no thanks on this mission." Rooster said. You let a sob breakthrough you and Rooster's once-hard demeanor changes instantly as he rushes to your side. "I know baby, but I have to go." You sob harder as he rubs your back.

The commotion on the boat had begun to grow louder and both of you knew that meant that take-off was imminent. You began to get tears falling again which broke Rooster's heart. "I promise I will be home before sundown." You nod, preparing yourself for the worst.

"Roos," you say softly, he looks at you. His eyes are glossy as he tries not to cry. "I love you." You managed to squeak out. Roosters eyes go wide, you hadn't said those worse yet. Never finding the perfect moment to say it before. "I promise Slapshot I feel the same way but I don't want to say it until I get home." You nod and kiss him goodbye before climbing down the ladder. Rooster moves his plane to prepare for takeoff. Finding you in the crowd you wave at him and he waves back, before being launched into the sky. He looked down at a photo of the two of you that sat within the plane blinking back tears. His only hope now is that he makes it home to be able to tell you how much he loves you.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The hours you had to wait were grueling, you spent them sitting in your room radio tuned to Roosters channel listening intently making sure that he is okay.

"Dash Two, prepare for landing." Air control says you raise from your seat waiting patiently for Roosters callback.

"Dash Two preparing for landing." Rooster calls back, you let out a sob of relief as you make your way back up to the deck, just in time for Rooster's plane to catch. You want nothing more than to run to him right now but you need to wait for him to deplane.

He could pick you out of any crowd, any day. But today as everyone crowded him he couldn't seem to find you, that was until you shoved past everyone and ran directly into his arms.

"You made it home!" you cried into him as he held you tight, "Before sundown too," Rooster said softly, no one else in the world existed to him right now besides you.

"I love you, (y/n)." That was all Rooster could say before you pressed your lips to his.

"I love you more Roos." You say back.

Taglist!

@itscheybaby

@turningtoclown

@daryldixonstorm

@Dilfsandtherapy

@Nickie-amore

@malindacath

@luckyladycreator2

@sadpetalsstuff

@Shanimallina87

@Wishingwell-2

@Xoxoloverb

@Majormaybe1

@Mizzy-pop

@Saramaple

@Hope-love-equality2

@toothhurtyam

@beaner-life-23

@fogle97

@justanothermagicalsara

@tallrock35

@callsigns-roo-and-bag

@marchingicenotes7

@scoopsahoy008

@oxxolovemelikeyoudooxxo

[randoauthor]

Love Letters to No One (B.B)

Part Five: Braddles

Pairings: Rooster x Fem!Reader, Platonic!Maverick x Fem!Reader

Warnings: Fluff, inference of death, also the bird strike accident was Lem and not Pheonix and Bod this time.

Word Count: 1.1K

Author's Note: Hii, sorry about the delay I wanted this part to be absolutely perfect! I hope you guys enjoy it!

Masterlist!

*21 years ago*

Dear Bradley,

I don't know when I started to fall in love with you, being four years older than me I figured it would never happen, and the way you are talking about the Academy I fear it never will. I know you want to be exactly like your father, but there has always been the thought of you going up there and never coming back down. I would obviously never tell you any of this to your face.

Your's truly,

Lemon

I sighed as I folded up the letter, it's not like he was ever gonna read it anyway, in three months' time Bradley was going to graduate high school and head to the Naval Academy, and the times that I get to see him will be shorter and shorter. I take a slight glance at the prom dress that was hung on the closet wall, somehow, magically, Bradley had convinced whoever he needed to convince that I absolutely needed to go to his senior prom with him. I have no clue how he did it, frankly knowing Bradley, I don't think I want to know.

"(Y/n)! Dinner!" Mom's voice rang through the near-empty house, with dad having gone on some mission. Every time he left our usually small house felt like a mansion, "coming!" I shout back. I place the letter delicately into an envelope, label it with the date, and set it into a shoe box.

*Present Day*

The mission had been moved up so our time was cut even shorter than it already was. I looked over to Bradley his face showing even more concern than the day before. I don't think he noticed my glance but Natasha did, which earned me a questioning head cock.

Dad explained some new drills we would run and how the G's would affect us. I could feel myself zoning out, worry taking over my body. I don't remember the end of class, or even getting suited up. Yet here I was, somehow on the tarmac in front of my F-18.

Being up in the air always brought me a sense of comfort, and I finally understood what Bradley yearned for all those years ago. This drill does a number on your body thought, with more G's comes more pressure, comes blacking out. Having completed the drill with Omaha and Fritz I fly up to meet dad in the air before all hell breaks loose that is.

"Bird strike! Bird strike!" He yells into the comms, trying our best to dodge seagulls I hear the worst things ever.

"Lemons been hit!" Maverick comes frantically through the comms as his daughter is fighting to extinguish the fire in the engine. Her comms are choppy and none of us can make out a word she is saying, I glance around the room everyone had stopped what they are doing and is now focused on the radio, our last form of hope to find out what is going on.

"Lemon, it is no use eject!" Maverick says frantically once again.

I stand up, being met by Pheonix, Bob, and Hangman as I feel myself begin to panic. I glance around the room, everyone's face has gone from panicked to concerned once we got the news that she ejected.

I don't even make a word the admiral says out, not until he calls for me.

I look up from my hands. "Lieutenant Bradshaw, she's gonna be asking for you." I don't even think twice before giving a fast nod and tearing out of the room to my truck, I don't even care if I just broke any protocols, I had to get to her.

*21 years ago*

Dear Bradley,

Hospitals are freezing, it's been close to six months since the last time I saw you. Mom is going to begin some form of treatment soon, but now all she does is joke that she won't live long enough to see you and I get married, apparently, that's something my parents and Carole joked about while we grew up. Personally, I think that puts too much pressure on a person and I don't even know if I want to get married. I have however decided to enroll in the Naval Academy, I know that is a touchy subject for you, but I promise to have the most fun for both of us, hell it can be like you living this through me. I still wanna know where you are. I know you'll never tell me, but I just wanna make sure you are okay.

I miss you Braddles,

Lem

*Present day*

I was shivering by the time I woke up in the hospital room, dad was at my bedside every now and then he would stroke my hand, ask for another blanket, or see if I could eat anything. Eventually the nurse just told him to ask all of the questions at once so that I could get some rest.

I was fine besides some scratches, bruises, and a small burn or two. I was talking with dad, Admiral Bates, and a doctor when I heard a faint knock at the door.

"Hey Lem," Bradley said softly, "how ya feeling?" I shot him a smile while everyone made some room for him next to me.

"Sorry about our date tonight," I said softly, feeling bad that I missed this opportunity to finally go on a proper date with the man I've loved since I was 13.

"Don't worry about it, I went and picked some up on the way here, nothing is gonna stop me from this date." He said with a smile before raising a plastic bag that was letting off a delicious smell.

Dad and Admiral Bates gave us a smile before getting the hint and leaving the room, the doctor explained to Bradley what was going on with my body before he too left the room, leaving us alone.

"I am so glad you are okay Lem," his face had gone from his signature smile to a more worried face. I raised a hand to his cheek, which proved to be rather difficult when you are hooked up to different machines.

"Do you really think you would be able to get rid of me that easily!?" I shot at him playfully.

Bradley laughed before just taking my hand in his, and with a soft peck on my cheek, he began pulling out the food and arranging it on the tray table in front of me.

And holy man did it smell amazing. We took a moment, between talking and filling our faces, unaware of what was going on outside.

"Bradley, I-" a soft knock stopped me from what I was about to say, and when my dad came in, puffy-eyed and sniffling. I knew something was wrong.

"Lem, it's Uncle Tom."

My heart dropped.

Taglist!

@itscheybaby

@turningtoclown

@daryldixonstorm

@dilfsandtherapy

@Nickie-amore

@malindacath

@luckyladycreator2

@sadpetalsstuff

@Shanimallina87

@wishingwell-2

@xoxoloverb

@majormaybe1

@mizzy-pop

@saramaple

@hope-love-equality2

@toothhurtyam

@beaner-life-23

@fogle97

@justanothermagicalsara

@tallrock35

@marchingicenotes7

@callsigns-roo-and-bag

@scoopsahoy008

[randoauthor]

Little Yellow Onesie (B.B)

Pairings: Bradley Bradshaw x Wife!Reader

Warnings: Misscarrage, mentions of death, stillbirth, swearing

Word Count: 1k

Author's Note: This is like really sad so I apologize in advance

Summary: "A yellow onesie is never worn because its owner was never born" ~unknown

MasterList!

We were so excited.

Of course, it caught us both off guard at first, I mean we were both pilots how the hell were we gonna be able to take care of a baby?

But then we heard your heartbeat, the steady thump like a drum and your father was already head over heels for you.

*Five Months Prior* "Are you sure?" Bradley's voice rang clear through the phone, excitement and fear dancing together in his voice.

"I mean the six tests I've taken would say I am but you never know." I shoot back playfully, I knew we were gonna be good parents, we had always talked about it. Now was an interesting time to begin but I knew that our baby was already so loved.

"Holy shit." Bradley brought me back down to earth, I could tell he was smiling from ear to ear. "I'm gonna be a dad."

*Now* I was on edge.

Bradley was on edge.

Neither of us had felt you move all morning, your usual feisty kicks when your father talked to you or the somersaults you did whenever I laid down had stopped, and we were both on edge.

Worry gripping us by the throat as we pulled into the parking lot of our doctors office I finally allow myself to let a few tears slip.

"Our baby is okay," Bradley said trying to be reassuring but failing at the sound of his own voice cracking, "they are just scaring us." I give him a nod to tell him that I appreciate the try but that it isn't working like he wants it to.

The rest of the appointment was numb. The doctor confirming our worst suspicion with a teary-eyed look and a sad nod.

"I'll give you guys a moment." She said softly, "I'll be back to discuss options shortly." With a small shoulder squeeze she was out the door, allowing Bradley and I to sit in the dark sonogram room.

He was the first to cry.

His shoulders shook as the sobs racked through him, I did my best to comfort him but all my efforts failed at the sight of the man I love being in tears. A few slipping down my face while I try to process the news.

Mav was the first one we called.

He didn't even wait for the phone call to end before he started crying, Penny joining in soon after. We decided not to tell anyone else, not until after it was over. We thought we were going through the hard part, but in reality, it was just beginning.

We decided to deliver. Bradley made me aware that this was my choice not his and that he would be there for me regardless of what I chose.

We headed home, the seldom car ride was made worse by the fact that we had just put the carseat in the back of the car a week prior. The small seat taunted us as we drove home to pack hospital bags, only needing two instead of three.

Bradley did his best to make sure I was comfortable when it came time to deliver. He held my hand through every contraction, brushed my stray hairs out of my face as I pushed, and held me while I cried to fill the deafening sound of the empty room, the room that was supposed to be filled with your cries.

"Do you want to hold her?" The doctor asked softly, wanting to give us a chance to know our baby.

"It's a girl?" Bradley asked through tears, earning a nod from the doctor. That news only made him cry more.

We were finally handed a small pink blanket, and wrapped inside there you were. You were perfect, you were small, you were ours. The doctors and nurses let us be, they let us hold you until you were cold, and even after that we still held you, we sang to you, we told you how loved you were.

We told you about your grandfather, we decided that Goose probably would have been called Pop Pop and Carole would have probably been Grammy. We told you how excited they were to meet you even it was sooner then we would have liked. We told you about my dad, about how he was the greatest pilot of all time and how excited he was to meet you too, mom had already told me that he would have been called Nonno, our Italian running through our veins. We told you all about your grandfather’s time at top gun and how my dad was the best of them all (much to your dad's dismay)

We decided to name you Calla, meaning beautiful in Greek, because you were beautiful.

Eventually a soft knock on the door signaled to us that Mav was here, he had been like a father to both Bradley and I, especially since my father died last year.

He had clearly been crying since we called him. Taking the small pink blanket from Bradley he sat in a chair next to my bed and spoke softly to you, we stayed like that for a while, we wanted to make sure you knew how loved you were.

Eventually the doctor came in, with a sad look on her face we knew it was time to say goodbye to you. Your father and I both kissed you one last time before handing you off, and while your dad went outside to get some fresh air Mav crawled into the bed with me and held me while I cried over you, for you, about you. Listing all the things you were never gonna get to accomplish in life yet somehow you had already touched so many people.

Four days we stayed in the hospital, three of those days you stayed with us. We had barely slept and hadn't eaten much. I though having you was the hardest part, but coming home to the nursery you were never gonna get to use was way worse.

I'll admit we had jumped the gun a little when it came to your nursery the room almost completely done, walking over I set a soft hand on your crib, inside laid a small yellow onesie.

You were supposed to come home in that, you were supposed to do a lot of things. But you weren't ready for the outside world and we don't blame you, this world is scary.

And no matter where you ended up, there were gonna be people excited to see you.

Taglist!

@itscheybaby

@turningtoclown

@daryldixonstorm

@Dilfsandtherapy

@Nickie-amore

@malindacath

@luckyladycreator2

@sadpetalsstuff

@Shanimallina87

@Wishingwell-2

@Xoxoloverb

@Majormaybe1

@Mizzy-pop

@Saramaple

@Hope-love-equality2

@toothhurtyam

@beaner-life-23

@fogle97

@justanothermagicalsara

@tallrock35

@callsigns-roo-and-bag

@marchingicenotes7

@scoopsahoy008

@oxxolovemelikeyoudooxxo

@malindacath

@calsjack

@notanordinaryprincess95

@fxngsfxgxrty

[randoauthor]

Love Letters to No One (B.B)

Pairings: Rooster x Fem!Reader, Platonic!Maverick x Fem!Reader

Warnings: swearing,

Word Count: 1K

Author’s Note: Wow guys I can't even begin to describe how blown away I am! This all just started as a way to keep me occupied while stuck in my house and now it's turning into something awesome so thank you all!

Part Three: Crazy = Genius

Part Two: Three's a Party

Part One: Lost Boys

Death is a funny thing.

What isn't funny is watching, and listening to your Dad and Ex-Best-Friend plummet thousands of feet in a matter of ten seconds.

"Holy shit he's going down, Maverick's going down!"

The room goes quiet.

"Oh my god, Rooster's with him!"

Pheonix and Bob share a worrying glance between themselves and then me. Their eyes bore into me and I try to pretend that I don't feel it.

"Maverick," the admiral comes on coms, "Pull up now, you are outside regulation, I repeat pull up now." Beeping can be heard from inside the planes via the dashboard that's set up within a common classroom.

"Lieutenant Mitchell, Admiral Simpson is requesting your presence." some unnamed soldier shouted into the room of the rest of us.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"You're an idiot," I call to my father from the tarmac, "an absolute idiot." My father chuckled pulling me into a hug. "I just needed to show him a lesson." I nod, pulling more into my father's chest.

I didn't bother looking at Bradley, and I didn't bother to see if he was looking at me. I honestly didn't really care.

"Come on Lem, let's go to the Hard Deck, I hear Penny is waiting for us." I smile and nod, following dad as he went to hang up his flight suit.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Hard Deck was loud. People playing pool off to the side, couples dancing near the jukebox, and Penny, and another random bartender moved seamlessly behind the bar. Dad was sitting there trying not to stare. And failing miserably.

I found a small table towards the back, next to a large window overlooking to ocean. For once I was at peace. I continued to sit quietly switching between people watching and staring out into the ocean.

"Is this seat open?" I don't even have to look at the questioning voice to know it was Bradley.

"Does it matter what I say?" I asked sarcastically, he responds with a soft chuckle before sitting down in the stool across from me.

"Can we talk?" he asks quietly watching as I observe our friends, who at the moment seemed to be making fun of Bob while he plays pool. I smile softly, I loved my life.

I just wish my mom was here to see it.

"I wish my parents were here," Bradley spoke, I could feel the pain in his voice and for the first time since I was 14, I related with him. "I know how you feel Bradley." He let out a laugh. "I haven't heard anyone call me Bradley in a very long time."

"So that means I can call you by your nickname?" I question jokingly. "Oh god please no." He laughs. "Oh come on Braddles." He looked at me with surprise in his eyes, "oh you did not just say it."

I smile, tauntingly, "oh yes I did."

The two of us broke out into fits of giggles and for once I finally took a good look at him. His curly brown hair suited his tan skin, I watched his eyes twinkle in the light of the Hard Deck. His lips seemed soft, and they were a lightish pink. He was still the same Bradley that I knew all those years ago. He is still the same Bradley I fell in love with all of those years ago. The same Bradley who told me he'd never leave me, the same guy who accidentally stole my first kiss.

"You haven't changed Lemon, you are still just as sweet and just as sour." I smile.

"Why did you do it?" I could tell that wasn't an answer he wanted to give. "Never mind it's okay." I got up from my seat, I only had one drink, I closed out my tab hours ago, and finding an Uber was gonna be way easier than prying my dad away from Penny.

"Lem, wait." I don't care that he's calling after me, and I don't turn around to see if he follows.

"Recruits, we are doing something different today." Dad's voice is filled with excitement, and when you grow up with Pete Mitchell as your father you always know that he's up to something.

Everyone loads into our transportation while I grab my helmet from my room. I didn't plan on riding with the rest of them, especially since I have been avoiding Bradley for what feels like forever but has probably only been three days.

"You riding with me kiddo?" I nodded to my dad climbing onto the back of the bike, just like mom used to do. I could feel someone watching me. I knew he was watching me. But I didn't care.

I always feel free on dads bike. I like feeling the wind rush past me, it makes me understand how really I actually am.

And I will never be more confused than when dad pulled into the Hard Deck parking lot.

"Okay, dad I know you have the hots for Penny, but I didn't think you were this serious about her." I joked but noticed the other two vans pulling into the parking lot too.

"Everyone, if I could have your attention please!" My dad stood tall, "today, the gracious Penny Benjamin has allowed us to use the Hard Deck for lunch, and then after we will be going to the beach for some fun and team-building activities.

Hangman came sauntering over to me, "I feel like a kid at summer camp." I laughed, "yeah, but knowing my father he has some weird thing planned." hangman gave me an all-knowing smile as if he grew up with my father.

It wasn't fair. Why does he get her smiles and laughs, the glances across the room? Jake doesn't deserve her. Jake hasn't been in love with her since they were kids. I have. It should be me sitting next to her at lunch, stealing the glances. I know she doesn't see me like that, I know she has never felt the same way. I should have told her how I feel the last time I saw her. Because I'll be damned if I sit here and watch her fall in love with Hangman of all people.

I knew he was looking at me. Yet, suppressing my feelings, and avoiding him seem like such better options.

"Pilots, finish up lunch." Dad flashed his sinister grin, "we are going to play football."

Taglist!

@itscheybaby, @turningtoclown, @daryldixonstorm, @Dilfsandtherapy, @Nickie-amore, @malindacath, @luckyladycreator2, @sadpetalsstuff, @Shanimallina87, @Wishingwell-2, @Xoxoloverb, @Majormaybe1, @Mizzy-pop, @Saramaple, @Hope-love-equality2