#pete maverick mitchell imagine

[worldofheroes]

It Was You

pete “maverick” mitchell x reader

summary: when maverick knocks on your door, your true feelings emerge.

warnings: friends with benefits, student/instructor dynamic, age gap (not mentioned), language, drunkenness, make-out session

wc: 823

a/n: based on this request! not necessarily exactly like the song but there’s angst. hope you enjoy!

It had been almost two months since you broke things off with Maverick.

Not that the two of you were really dating, it was more of a friends with benefits type relationship, but after a month you realized how bad of an idea it was to fuck your instructor.

You were doing well, but whenever you passed Maverick in the halls on base, he would give you puppy eyes, like he was trying to apologize for something.

One Friday night, you’re at home watching a movie with your new fling. He’s nothing to write home about, but you needed someone to get your mind off of Maverick.

Suddenly, there’s a knock on your door.

“I’ll get it,” you say, standing up from the couch and heading to the front door.

When you open the door, your smile fades.

“What are you doing here?”

“I miss you,” Maverick mumbles. You can smell whiskey faintly on his breath.

“Maverick,” you sigh. “You’re drunk. Please go home.”

“Not drunk,” he continued to mumble.

“Mav, this is embarrassing, please go.”

Ryan walks up behind you. “Everything okay?”

“Yeah, he was just leaving, right, Pete?”

The use of his name over his call sign stings not just Maverick, but also you.

Maverick nods, and stumbles off your porch.

“Wait,” you call out. Maverick stops, back still to you.

You turn to Ryan. “I need to get him home before he does anything he’s gonna regret in the morning. I’ll be back soon, okay?”

“How do I know you’re not gonna do anything?” Ryan asks.

“Trust me, nothing’s going to happen.”

Ryan stares at you for a moment.

“I’ll be right back,” you mutter, stepping across the threshold.

Maverick is still waiting at the bottom of your steps.

“Why did you come here?” you hiss.

“I miss you,” he repeats, looking at the ground.

You grab his arm and start to lead him to his house.

“Mav, I told you.”

“You don’t look happy with him,” Maverick frowns.

“This is not your place to tell me who I can and can’t date,” you quip.

“Gimme another chance,” he pleads.

“We can’t, Pete. You’re my instructor. There are rules.”

“Fuck the rules.”

“Not these rules. You can do whatever the fuck you want up in the air but we have to follow these rules, Mav.”

You guide him up the steps to his house.

“We were good together,” he mumbles.

“Don’t do this, Pete,” you say, feeling your throat close up and tears forming in your eyes.

Maverick looks up at you with sadness in his eyes.

“I won’t, I’m sorry for knocking on your door,” he says, suddenly stone cold sober.

“I need to go before I do something stupid,” you say, turning away. “Goodnight, Mav.”

“Goodnight, y/n,” Maverick whispers.

You go back to your place, where Ryan is still waiting.

Later that night, as you lay in bed with Ryan, you can’t stop thinking about how you’d rather be next to Maverick.

You spend the weekend with Ryan, but your mind is filled with Maverick. As Ryan walks you to your door Sunday night, you find some courage.

“Ryan, I don’t think this is working for me,” you say.

“What?” he asks you.

“I wanted to make this work, but I just don’t have the same feelings that you do for me.”

“It’s Maverick, isn’t it?”

“Ryan, I…”

“No, I get it. Goodnight.”

Ryan turns on his heel and walks away. You watch him walk out of sight and you walk to Maverick’s house.

You knock on his door, and he answers almost immediately.

“Y/n,” he says softly.

“You were right, Mav,” you say, on the verge of tears.

“What?”

“I miss you. I couldn’t stop thinking about you after Friday night.”

Maverick doesn’t say anything.

“If you changed your mind and don’t feel the same anymore, I get it and I’ll leave if you tell me,” you say, rambling.

Maverick leans in and kisses you, hard. Your arms wrap around his neck instinctively, and you push him back inside his house, kicking the door shut behind you.

He pushes you up against the door with a thud. Maverick’s tongue eagerly swipes against your lips, wanting in.

Of course, without any hesitation, you part your lips for him, his tongue moving in and swiping against yours.

A moan slips out of your mouth and into his, and he sighs happily.

“You’re the best thing that’s happened to me,” Maverick tells you.

“You’re the worst thing that’s happened to me,” you tease.

He smiles. “I know you don’t mean that.”

You giggle and kiss him again, happy to be back in his arms.

“I’m sorry I walked away, I was scared,” you say softly.

“Don’t be, y/n,” Maverick reassures you, pulling you in for a hug. He kisses the top of your head.

“Mav,” you sigh, squeezing him tighter, never wanting to let go ever again.

[shoot-the-oneshot]

PAPER RINGS

Based on this idea with the ring from Purple Hearts.

The one where rooster can’t find the perfect ring

Hangman version Young Maverick version

“Woah!” Maverick yelled being pulled into an empty classroom, “Rooster?” He asked seeing the pilot start to pace once the door shut. “I need your help Mav.” Since Bradley could tie his shoes he hasn’t asked maverick for help so this spiked his stress levels. “It's Y/N.” Rooster mumbled out. “What happened to Y/N?” If Bradley was the son he never had you were the daughter he was incredibly protective over you.

“Something happened to Y/N!” Rooster froze worry overcoming his entire body as he quickly looked out the window where he knew your jet would be soaring through the air. “That’s what you said!” Maverick yelled, making Rooster throw his arms in the air. “No, I didn’t, you did.” The men quieted down the stress of something happening you calming. “What did you need help with?”

“I want to marry her.”

“Kid that’s great but why’d you have to stress me out first come here,” Maverick said pulling the other man into him for a hug wishing that Goose was here to see his boy all grown up. Rooster rolled his eyes at the last comment.

“Will you help me pick out a ring?” Maverick had never been so happy to be invited to a jewelry store before but for the two kids coming together he couldn’t wait. Until they got there, then he slightly regretted it he should’ve known really. Goose was the same way when he went shopping for Carols.

“Do you like any of these?” Maverick asked glancing down at the glass cases of engagement rings. Rooster looked silently. He knew for sure he wanted to marry you, but he had no idea what type of ring you wanted. Thinking back on it he really should’ve asked Phoenix.

“No, they’re just not right.” He sighed, shaking his head, he knew if his mom and dad were there they’d know exactly what to do. maverick who had never been married was just as lost as Bradley, but he tried his best, “just, Just look at the rings, and when you see one that makes you feel the way you do when you look at Y/N that’s the one.”

“That’s actually not a bad idea.” With his newfound outlook, he spent probably another two hours looking from ring to ring, and nothing felt right. “Can I see the last one again?” He sheepishly asked, he know that the poor saleswoman hated him even Mav, who was resting his head on his hands. His mom loved the ring his dad gave her wore it long after he died, and Rooster wanted you to love yours just as much. Setting the rings down he groaned rubbing his hands down his face.

“Kid you could give her a paper ring and shed say yes.” Rooster paused at his words an idea popping into his head. “ Thank you!” He yelled, pushing the rings back and pulling Maverick behind him out the door. “Am I missing something?” Mav wondered aloud watching Rooster run to the back of his bronco and pull out a toolbox.

“I don’t need to buy her something I need to give her something.” He mumbled paying half attention to what Maverick was saying. “You’re going to give her your dog tags?” He asked, Watching the young pilot put them out of his shirt and off his neck. Separating the smaller chain from the longer one. “Part of them.” Cutting the chain to the length he measured next to a ring he took from your nightstand. Smacking Maverick's hand away when he went to reach for it. “Don’t touch.” Of course, Maverick ignored him and picked it up anyways when Rooster was done with it.

“You stole her ring?” Rooster huffed cutting him a glance from what he was doing. “I borrowed it.” Mav nodded along. “Stole it.” He whispered, making the pilot huff

“It’s temporarily misappropriated!” Rooster barked going back to the task at hand, connecting the chain back together he slid the small loop onto his finger showing Maverick.

“What do you think?” Bradley felt more nervous now than he did in the jewelry store. Watching for any look that may come over his unofficial uncles face. A proud smile slid on his face looking from the makeshift ring and the other pilot shifting on his feet. “Y/n will love it.” Passing the ring back Rooster immediately started fiteling with it.

“Are you sure? I know it's basic but we can pick out the other ring together so she really likes it you know, and I always wished I had my dads tags, thanks for that by the way.” Maverick cringed,

“so maybe even when I’m away she still has a little piece of me to carry around.” He rambles making Mav grab him by both arms to get him to take a breath. “Kid it's perfect.”

“Are you sure, because she definitely deserves perfect.”

“There’s only one way to find out.”

“Are you okay babe?” You asked seeing your boyfriend shift in his seat for the thousandth time nice he picked you up. Not to mention his hand white-knuckling the steering wheel. His head snapped over to you, quickly going back and forth between you and the road. “What? Yeah, I’m fine just looking forward to tonight.” Patting your knee than going straight back to the wheel. Normally his hands never left you so his behavior was confusing you a bit.

What you didn't notice was rooster had changed his shirt five times before driving to get you, he even had his second choice in the back in case he changed his mind. Maverick had brought Penny over during his spiral for a pep talk thinking shed help the young pilot better than he could. It slightly helped.

“We’re going to follow them right?” Penny whispered watching rooster pull off. “Of course we are I’m not missing this.”

Pulling up to the beach Rooster pulled you back when you went to step out of the car, pressing a kiss to your empty ring finger he asked you to wait while he set up.

Watching him running with arms full of baskets and bags made you giggle when he tripped a bit, sand and running not really mixing well.

Spreading out the blanket and fighting against the ocean breeze he managed to get all the candles lit, surrounding it with the flowers he hid there earlier. He had all your favorite foods there too. So you could celebrate if you said yes, or could drown his sorrows if you said no. Taking a few steps back and looking at his set up he nodded “talk to me dad.” He whispered, taking a breath before going back to get you.

“My lady.” He spoke in a playful British accent helping you out of the car. Making you let out that laugh he fell in love with hearing. “What do you have planned this evening Sir Bradshaw?” You asked playing along as you walked hand and hand down the path. His set up still out of view. “Picnic on the beach and watching the sunset sound good to you?”

“Perfect.” You leaned up to press a soft kiss against his jaw. God, he really hopes you think so. Before you both got any closer he pulled you to a stop. “You mind?” Holding up a bandana he didn't need to explain what he wanted. ‘Must be some picnic huh.”

With the bandana secured he carefully led you farther on the beach stopping you once you stood in the middle of the blanket. Not releasing your hand as he knelt on one knee in front of you. “You can take it off now.” You gasped seeing him on one knee. Looking up at you with the most love you’ve ever seen come from a person.

“Y/n, I said I fell in love with you at first sigh the night we met, but know all this time I spent with you I realized that’s not true.” He paused to collect himself seeing the tears start shimmering in your eyes, “every second I see you I fall more in love its love at every sight, every thought, every moment I spend with you makes me fall deeper and deeper in love with you and I want to love you for the rest of my life, will you give me that chance and marry me?”

pulling the chain ring out of his pocket he held it between you, you quickly nodded your head the second he asked, “Yes, yes yes!” Excitement flooded his entire body at your words and he stood to pull you into him and spun you around. “She said yes!” He shouted to no one in particular. Caressing his face you pressed your lips together a little awkwardly since neither of you could wipe the smiles off your faces.

Setting you back on your feet, he shakily slid the ring on your finger. “We will get you a diamond obviously but I didn’t want to pick it out without you.” You breathlessly laughed shaking your head fondly at your new fiancé. “It’s perfect I love it!”

Your moment of staring into each other's eyes broke as you both heard clapping.

“Oh god.” Rooster groaned hiding his face in your neck as you laughed, watching Maverick's eyes widened realizing they’ve been caught giving a shy wave as Penny beamed. You felt Rooster chuckle against you before he straightened up holding your left hand in his raising it. “We’re getting married!”

Hi!! Hope you guys liked it let me know in the comments and check out my TopGun masterlist for more. And let me know who’s version you want next in the comments Hangman or Young Mav

[crazyk-imagine]

Hotel: Spin Off

Pairing: Pete "Maverick" Mitchell x Fem!reader

Characters: Fem!reader, Charlotte "Charlie" Blackwood, Carole Bradshaw, Bradley Bradshaw, Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, Nick "Goose" Bradshaw, Ron "Slider" Kerner, Leonard "Wolfman" Wolfe (Henry "Wolfman" Ruth)

Warnings: Crack, apart of the crack au, the boys are in left field, no one knows how to protect themselves from the supernatural, this has been in my docs for a bit and finally found the words to finish it, chaotic goose and maverick, we love these crackheads as crackheads, am I posting this before work? Yes

Word Count: 735

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

You, Charlotte, and Carole weren't expecting anything out of the ordinary to happen today; it's Tuesday, a plain old Tuesday but- of course, Charlotte spoke too soon.

You walk out of the living room to work on getting started with dinner while Carole and Bradley work on getting the tv set up leaving Charlotte to quickly clean up the toys (since she's the one who brought them out [wanting to teach the youngest Bradshaw a life lesson]).

You brought up the idea of watching movies while you all wait for the guys to come home.

Her phone rings, her ringtone "great balls of fire", echoes throughout the living room, letting you all know it's her hubby calling.

You enter the kitchen in time to hear her tell Nick, "don't come home-"

You hear the instructor's laughter as you walk past the wall, unable to hear anything else; part of you can't help but wonder what she's talking about since they haven't had any issues lately.

You and Charlotte are the first and only ones she talks to if she needs advice, whether it be because of a relationship issue or how to make her hair look more fluffy and less messy, which is how lots of your conversations go.

-

Charlotte wanders around the kitchen making drinks (feeling you girls deserve them) while you work on the food, something you already planned on doing and not just because they all love your food.

You're in the cooking zone by the time you realize your phone is ringing) and not just because the blonde taps your shoulder, informing you otherwise.

You nod and walk towards the dining table to grab the hand towel, so you can wipe your hands and get rid of the vegetable juice to answer the phone.

You pick it up and hold it to your ear and resume chopping. You tap the speaker button and leave the phone close to you "Mav?"

"Who else would be calling you?"

The blonde chuckles.

"I don't know, a murderer."

The blonde behind you scoffs at the two of you.

"I want to murder that-" A scream cuts him off. "I hate them. I really do," he mumbles.

"Who the hell are you talking about, Pete?" You ask with amusement present in your tone. You pause, listening to the background noises, "Why does it sound like you're at a sketchy motel?"

"He's where?" She mutters, coming closer behind you so she can listen in.

He sighs, knowing he can't hide anything from you (or your extra set of ears). "We are."

"What the hell happened while I was at work?"

"You mean other than the fact that I'm dealing with idiots, not much."

You chuckle, swiping the chopped veggies into the pot on the stove. "Are you going to be home for dinner?"

He blows out a puff of air. "I don't know."

You purse your lips, knowing how idiotic the crew can be and can't entirely blame him for coming home late. "Be sure to call me when you know more."

"Trust me I-"

"Mayday, Mav, mayday! Wolf's pulling out the salt." There's a brief pause, "on the bright side, Slider's met his future wife."

He groans, "Jesus, I'm gonna go before they burn the place down."

You open your phone and check the post Carole sent you. "Hey Mav?"

"Yeah?"

"What the hell were you guys doing with a ouija board?" You can sense the cogs in his mind turning as he tries to come up with a lie.

"Just- I'll be home soon. This is connected to anything that's happened, we paid the electrical bill on the beach house, right?"

You glance at Charlotte. "We did."

She leans in, "if anything sounds sketchy, hangup."

"So now?" You roll your eyes. "Mav, don't stay out late. We paid the bill and don't wind up in the hospital this time, okay?"

"I make no promises," Nick shouts into the phone. "Let me speak to my, lady love. I need to say some things before I meet my maker."

"No, bye," she hangs up the phone.

"Char!"

"What? He was going on and on for so long."

"That doesn't mean you hang up on him."

She shrugs, "oh well." She walks back into the living room. "Care, your husband's going to come home possessed."

You hear her laughter from the living room and poor Bradley being confused.

-

Continue to the series - Top Gun: Crack

-

Tag List

@kmc1989 @blueoorchid

[callsign-phoenix]

I wrote this as a part of my 12 days of ficmas, I hope you like it!

It is a young!Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell x female!reader imagine.

The prompt is Santa Baby.

Warnings: this is super short but sweet

Madonna’s new song ‘Santa Baby’ was everywhere this Christmas season, and it really made the Christmas spirit.

In great Maverick-fashion Pete had started singing the song to you when you had still contemplated going out with him and his strange stunt had worked.

A year later the song was becoming popular again around that time of year.

It brought memories back that made your eyes gleam like the ring on your finger.

The Christmas movie night you had planned with Pete was going beautifully.

Pete had come home from work early, with a bag of candy canes and some popcorn kernels to make the best snacks to eat while watching tv.

You worked on the popcorn while Pete got comfortable.

When you saw him sitting on the couch wearing Santa’s hat you had to stifle a laugh, setting the bowl of popcorn down and straddling his lap.

You let your hand run through his hair as you listened to the radio that was softly playing in the background.

Pete’s arms wrapped around your waist and he pressed a kiss to your nose, smiling up at you.

Madonna was softly serenading you as you leaned down, your lips grazing his cheek for a kiss before they settled by his ear.

“Well, Santa, we’re going to have a baby soon,” you whispered.

Pete’s eyes shot up to meet yours and an incredulous look ghosted over his face.

You weren’t sure what he was feeling because a million expressions seemed to follow each other closely in his eyes, until excitement and utter joy prevailed.

His eyes were searching yours to see how you felt, but your wide grin was indication enough.

“Fuck me,” Pete replied, a surprised but thoroughly excited laugh falling from his lips.

You had to laugh as well as you moved to press a kiss to his lips, your eyes gleaming with excitement.

“I think I already did that,” you joked, pulling his hat off of his head and his shirt over it.

You were excited for movie night, but it could wait a few minutes.

tagging: @starkleila @mayhem24-7forever @green-socks @letsfvckingdance @yespolkadotkitty @whateverbagman @neptunes-curse @sweetheartlizzie07 @top-gun-rooster @iloveprettyboysblog @ateliefloresdaprimavera @imjess-themess @littlebadariell @angstyjellybean @marchingicenotes7 @midget713 @supernaturaldawning @gspenc @adorephina @gigisimsonmars @bespinnn @malindacath @aerangi @kassieesworld @kwanimations @18crazybutcutealsopsycho @mavericksicybabe @kendra-rose @desert-fern @mavrellover91 @allivingstone01 @rhettabbotts @withakindheartx @trikigirl271 @cherrycola27 @bonitanightmxres @ratcatcher2world @glowingtree @wingmanvenus

(please tell me if you want to be added to the taglist, or use this link)

[another-tblr-fangirl]

Just saw this and I’m gonna need someone to write a fic with either Rooster, Hangman, Bob or Mav ( could be Icemav) with this :

[daughterofthereaper02]

The Tiny One

A/N: I’m doing it!! @sweetheartlizzie07 @onebigfangirlworld @blackcat2907 you all fully endorsed this! Goose will NOT die. Also I may or may not write the portions mentioned in more detail later on... Like the cuddles and dates. Okay, I know I will write the one date in more detail.

Warning: Soulmate au, shorter reader, 80′s time period, extremely protective IceMav

Pairings: Tom Iceman Kazansky x F! Reader x Pete Maverick Mitchell

Summary: Meeting your soulmates Pete Mitchell and Tom Kazansky. Then a glimpse of your life with them in the 80's

It had been by pure coincidence that you met your first soulmate, Pete Maverick Mitchell. You were a high school U.S. History teacher, it was your first year teaching them. You had gone to the local bar where a bunch of sailors were at with a coworker who wanted to relax. It was a year before Maverick would be going to Top Gun.

You literally bumped into him, “Oh geez! I am so sorry!” You laughed, looking up at the attractive man, his green eyes looking deep into yours. “Pete Mitchell, everyone calls me Maverick” he said, feeling a connection to you immediately. You gasped as his name burned into your wrist as it became a bright red. “Y/n L/n” you told him in awe, a bright grin lighting up both of your faces.

You both spent that year getting to know each other, you got along well with his best friend, Goose. You both often snuggled together, you would both stare at the name Tom Kazansky that was tattooed on your wrists. You threw around ideas on what he was like, you both knew he would be the one to balance you both out.

When Pete got the news he was going to Top Gun, you were ecstatic for him. You even transferred to a teaching job at a high school near Top Gun. Luckily, they had a spot open for a history teacher. You fell in love with the area immediately and as a soulmate, you got to stay with Maverick in housing on base.

You had told him to go out with Goose to the bar since you were finished prepping your class plans. You didn't want him to miss out on getting to know his classmates because of you, you were also secure enough in your relationship to know he wouldn't do anything.

Your boyfriend rushed into the house that night, “Y/n! Y/n! Y/n! I met him! I met Tom! He’s a pilot too! Don't worry, I made a great first impression” he told you, collapsing on the couch and putting his head in your lap. He was breathless and didn't bother to get out of his white uniform before coming over. You stared in shock before running your fingers through his short hair, “Really? What is he like?” you asked, looking at the colored name on his wrist. You were doubtful about the first impression because you know how cocky he is. “Perfect, really perfect. He is tall, has to be six foot. Blonde” he told you, “Ice cold, no mistakes. His call sign is Iceman. He was in my class but I never had time for introductions, you’ll love him sweetheart!” he told you happily, talking quickly as he tried to get everything out. "I really couldn't stop staring, he is so hot sweetheart! He's probably going to fall in love with you right away" Mav finished. You leaned down and kissed his nose, "If you say so baby," you grinned and rolled your eyes. You listened to him babble on the rest of the night as you two cuddled.

It was the next night that you got to meet him and everything was perfect from there. It had been at the bar again and Pete was tugging you right to him, he sat in a both alone. "Kazansky," Pete said with a massive grin, "Mitchell," he said, a smile on his face. His eyes landed on you and you held out your hand, "Y/n L/n," you told him with a blush. Instead of shaking your hand, he brought it to his lips, "Tom Kazansky" he said, kissing your knuckles. In that moment it was like your brain short circuited and Pete laughed, "Tom, I forgot to warn you. She flusters easy" he grinned. "Shut up, Pete!" You pouted but grinned at the laugh Tom let out.

Then you were introduced to their other friends after a few days of getting to know each other more. Tom introduced you to his RIO, Slider. As soon as you saw him, a grin formed and his eyes widened. "No! You can not date my pilot and Maverick!" He told you. "And why not?" You asked, your soulmates watching you both confused, "Because I said so! You're like my little sister!" He huffed. "Sorry, I don't speak nor understand bitch" you shrugged. Tom laughed and pulled you into his arms, happily letting you snuggle into him. "Childhood best friends" you explained to them both and they nodded, Slider gave them both looks "She is like my little sister. Hurt her and I break you" he told them seriously and both nodded quickly.

From that point, your relationship fell together easily. You learned a lot about each other even though it felt like you all knew each other your whole lives. There were little things that others wouldn't notice but you did, such as:

There was always the competition between them as they were both very cocky, of course you knew that would happen as they were pilots. Somehow, they always seemed to settle down when you appeared too frustrated. If they were constantly trying to one up the other while you were busy and you looked ready to snap, they stopped.

Often you and Pete would be wrapped up in blankets, tucking yourselves into Tom's sides as you guys watched movies and he would kiss the tops of your heads. In private, the three of you were very soft together and no one would believe it if you told them. It was mostly you who would be laying on them on the couch randomly as they worked on paperwork and you did the same. They learned you were basically touch starved so they never minded, you weren't obnoxious about it.

You were shorter then both of them which made Pete happy since you first met, he finally wasn't the shortest. You would always have Pete's arm around your waist and Tom's arm around your shoulders as you walked.

You would also get lots of forehead kisses.

The best part was Tom would often pick you up and carry you on his back with Pete pouting because the last time Pete kneed Tom.

"You wiggle too much Mitchell!" "You scared me Kazansk!"

There was once in a date to a carnival and you were exhausted so Tom put you on his back as you fell asleep because you weren't used to going as much as they did, it had been a full day for your date, since 04:00 actually.

There were also random head pats for you and Pete, joking about your heights compared to Toms. He would also wrap his arms around you both from behind and lean is head on your heads.

The final part you noticed the most was how protective they were of you. They were always close but after being harassed by an abusive ex and Tom held you while Pete took care of them, you knew that they would always be there to protect you no matter what. Other people would have left you to seem macho but Tom stepped back to let Pete get rid of him because of how terrified you were. Then neither of them left you for a while.

They were perfect for you and you all balances each other out perfectly.

Taglist:

@blackcat2907

@18crazybutcutealsopsycho

@peaches-and-sunshine

@natasharomanoffisbaebby

@sweetheartlizzie07

@lollypop90907

@the-hottest-lieutenants

@jamiedontbeacracko

@fandomstanner24

[averagewriter-inthedark]

Living Up To The Legacy P.6 ✈️ | Top Gun Maverick Series

Contains major spoilers for TGM

Catch up on the series -> Series Masterlist

Characters & Pairings: Lt. Bradley ‘Rooster’ Bradshaw x Lt. Barbara ‘Legacy’ Mitchell!OC (past/eventual romance), Captain Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell x daughter!OC (platonic). Lt. Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace (platonic/best friend), every other character in this is a platonic pairing

Content Warnings: profanity, smoking, light angst, fluff, allusions to smut and suggestive content— Minors DNI!! | Female OC (She/her) | wc: 5k+

Premise: The day has come for the special detachment to embark on their mission of blowing up a uranium plant before it is operational. After weeks of denying re-emerging feelings, Barbara and Bradley have found their way back into each other’s arms and have to come to terms with the reality they face moving forward. And their future isn’t the only one at stake on this mission for Barbara may lose the chance to reignite the bond between her and her once estranged father, Pete Mitchell.

Note: this is shorter than the previous chapters and probably will be the shortest of all (except maybe the epilogue). I’m debating on making the last 30 min of the movie one long ass chapter or splitting it up please. I originally had this story as 6 chapters, but then decided on 7 and may do 8 unless you guys are okay with waiting for the last chapter. I am a grad student and currently have a lot of important assignments this month that may put this story on the back burner. I’ll still work on it a little day by day, but may not be able to pump out three thousand words a day like I normally have. I’ll keep you guys updated and I hope you enjoy this chapter ♥️

———————————————

“Talk to me, Goose.”

The words that stuck with him even thirty years after he was gone. Maverick stood alone on the carrier below the deck as the breeze from the ocean before him kissed his face. The memory of him throwing Goose’s tags into the sea as a final send off. Gone, but never forgotten.

“Captain Mitchell,” her voice called to him seconds later, and Maverick slowly turned to see Barbara standing in her flight suit free of gear with tears in her eyes. “Dad,” she corrected, which sent a wave of emotion through him. “You’re where you belong.”

Mav was holding his own tears which he was sure spilled once Barbara approached and launched into his arms. They held each other tightly, Barbara pushing her face against Mav’s chest as his one hand cradled the back of her head. “Make us proud,” she whimpered out, letting the emotion overtake as she tightened the hold around his waist. “And come home. Please.”

A tear dropped from his eye, “I promise.” At that moment the overhead tarmac dropped down and together the two Mitchell’s walked onto it with Mavericks arm around Barbara’s shoulder while hers rested on his waist. As it brought them onto the deck Barbara thought back to the past 48 hours leading to that moment.

When Rooster shamelessly admitted he already had his stuff packed in his Bronco following a much needed second round, he cleared her up and brought her into his arms for some much needed sleep. It was just before midnight when they knocked out—neither wanting to discuss the future—and awoke just after 4 am. To save time they showered together with both having to face away from each other for fear it would lead to something more.

They didn’t have time for that and Barbara would rather sit naked on a hot grill than explain why both she and Rooster were late to the docks.

Her plan was to have him leave before her to avoid suspicion from the others, but Bradley just shook his head and said, “Are you seriously going to ride your bike when you have a backpack and duffle? Just throw it in the Bronco, we’ll go together.”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea….”

“What, are you worried about what they may think?” He scoffed, snapping his belt and making sure it was lined with the seam of his uniform. When Barbara went to start a pot of coffee before their shower he had gone to get his stuff. “Hate to break it to you, baby, but they already know.”

“And how exactly do they know?” Barbara questioned with suspicion, lightly coating her eyelashes with mascara before moving to grab her blow dryer. Now she was definitely not looking forward to being on the carrier.

Rooster just smirked at her through the mirror, adjusting his collar. “Wasn’t really hiding my intentions when I asked Phoenix for your address, Barb.”

“Oh,” she hummed, taking her wet brush and running it through the wet strands of hair. “Your intentions were to seduce your ex-wife back into bed. I see.” A gasp escapes her mouth when Rooster’s arms suddenly go around her waist and pull her back to his chest. She nearly drops the brush when he leans down to nip her earlobe.

“My intentions were to win back the woman I love who I made the mistake of walking away from. The sex was a plus.” He pressed a kiss to her jaw, meeting her eye in the mirror. The flush of her face brought Rooster satisfaction, lips curling up as he pressed into her. “Let’s not forget, you’re the one who wanted to dance for me.”

Fuck he got her there. Barbara did initiate round two because to be fucking honest their sex life was never just one and done. Neither were satisfied until at least three orgasms unless they were exhausted from the day. And as a switch, Barbara loved dancing on Rooster to the point he was a babbling mess for her.

His kisses along her jaw and neck brought her out of the lustful thoughts, Barbara gently breaking away with a playful expression. “Now, now, Bardshaw. You know the rules when in uniform. Best to not disrespect it any further.” He groaned, adjusting his pants before checking his watch to see it was already pushing 4:30. Thank God Barbara lived just down the street from the docks.

“Like we haven't done worse,” he snickers when she yelps as he lands a light slap to her ass before walking out of the bathroom to move their bags to the Bronco. While he’s out Barbara quickly dries her (thankfully) short hair in record time and straightens it lightly to give it a cropped effect. With a ‘Hmm’ she realizes she could easily pull off a Mia Wallace look for Halloween.

Putting on some simple studs and giving one last look over to make sure her uniform was polished, Barbara takes her phone, cigarette tin, and any last minute items she forgot before leaving her room. She doesn’t bother making the bed after much debate….the sheets would have to be washed when she returned. Dumping out any leftover coffee and hand washing it, Barbara locks up her home and meets Rooster outside in the already running Bronco. It was still dark out, the horizon just barely starting to light up in the distance.

The second she’s closing the door his lips are on her before she could even buckle up. “What was that for?” She asks with an exhale, surprised by the gesture. Rooster just smiles and replies, “I doubt being on the carrier we’ll be able to be together much. Just in case that was the last time I got to kiss you, I wanted it to be where it felt like home.”

Water lined her eyes, Barbara sniffing as emotion coursed through her. Without warning her hand goes to the back of his neck and pulls him to her again. The kiss is much like the one they shared at the tarmac the day before. Slow and full of love. It would have gone on longer if her phone alarm hadn’t scared the shit out of them.

“Fuck—sorry,” she hits the dismiss, reading the time at 4:40. She mentally patted herself on the back at the fact she managed to shower, dress, do her hair and get out of the house in an impressive amount of time. All with her…ex? Boyfriend? Undecided partnership? They’ll figure it out after the mission.

The golden rule of being in the military: if you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.

The docks were only a short drive down the street and a left turn into the parking lot, but they couldn’t risk being late. “We should get going.”

“Yeah,” Rooster agreed, kissing her blushing cheek and leaning back into his seat. Barbara buckled in as he reversed in the driveway before starting down the road out of her small neighborhood which consisted mostly of beach houses. The entire drive Rooster held Barbara's hand, bringing it to rest on his right thigh. The music was at a low volume, Barbara had her window down to let the cool breeze from the ocean saunter in.

When they arrived at the docks, most of the team had already arrived. It looked like most had the same idea of carpooling. Harvard and Yale were with Omaha. Phoenix, and Halo caught a ride with Bob while Fanboy hitched one with Payback. Lastly Hangman was pulling in at the same time as them with Coyote.

“You ready?” Rooster softly asked as he shut off the engine and unlocked the doors. The answer didn’t come in words but a simple nod, Barbara giving him a small smile as he grabbed her hand again to gently squeeze it.

As they got out of the Bronco and moved to the back to retrieve their bags. Neither turned to face their fellow aviators who were all pretty much gawking at the sight before them—which they expected. Phoenix was the only one with a genuine smile, happy and relieved to see the two together. Hangman and Coyote expressions were more of, ‘well I’ll be damn.’ The others were a mix of both though they couldn’t help but be surprised at the timing.

Thanking Rooster as he handed her the backpack and duffle, Barbara pulled it around her shoulders and slung the duffle strap onto one. Once Rooster was ready and the car was locked, they walked side by side to meet with Phoenix and Bob who were kind enough to wait on them. There was no mistaking the knowing look Phoenix was sending the two, brows raised to silently say, ‘Lovers quarrel has been settled?’

“Phoenix, Bob,” Barbara nods, removing the cigarette from behind her ear to place it between her lips.

“Morning you two,” Nat smiles, watching Barbara light the tobacco as she comes to her side. Bob and Bradley share a bro handshake, but not before the latter sends a look of disapproval to Barbara.

“This is my last one for a while, okay Bradshaw? Get off my ass.”

Rooster clicks his tongue, trying to stop the smirk from forming, “Wasn’t gonna say anything, but glad to hear it.” Barbara rolls her eyes, walking ahead of the men with Phoenix and leans in to whisper, “He secretly finds it hot, but won’t admit it.”

With a laugh Phoenix nudges her fellow aviator while wiggling her eyebrows, “I take it you two made up?” A huff is her reply, but make no mistake the expression gives Barbara away.

“We’re working on it.”

“I’m happy for you. Really, you two are like Yin and Yang.”

Barbara lets her gaze flicker to the ground briefly after blowing the smoke in the opposite direction, “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, Phee. We’ve got more pressing matters to focus on.” That has the Lieutenant tilt her head, remembering a certain topic of discussion she’d been dying to ask Barbara about.

“You think Cyclone will really fall through? I mean court-martialing when all you did was prove he was wrong about changing—.”

“I stole a multi million dollar jet, Phee. I quite literally broke the law,” Barbara was aware the two men were more than likely listening to their conversation for their own had fallen silent. She could feel Rooster’s eyes on her. “He can’t go after Maverick just yet, but he can punish me right now. Trust me, the worst thing that could come out of it is a dishonorable discharge.” In the corner of her eye she saw Phoenix draw in a sharp breath. “But maybe the judge or whoever decides my fate will see it was necessary and demote me or hell I don’t know. All I know is I made my bed, now it’s time for me to lay in it.”

“Still I don’t think it’s fair,” Phoenix comments, watching Barbara finish the bud before discarding it in the ashtray on the trash can. “With what Cyclone was planning, none of us would have a chance. It would have put us in harm's way. I mean, yeah we knew the risks and accepted them by doing this job, but still I don’t think anyone is truly ready to lay down their life. And when their superior sees it like that it drops their confidence.”

“I know,” Barbara mutters, pinning a glance to her friend with solemn eyes. “That’s why Mav and I did what we did. He wouldn’t forgive himself if anything happened to you guys out there.” Pain filled her heart at the thought of Maverick losing his wingman. The man has seen more death than the average human and though he acts like it doesn't bother him, Barbara can see the toll it takes on him daily.

Once on the carrier they were issued their rooms with Barbara bunking with Phoenix and Halo. She and Rooster exchanged one last glance before they were separated. Mav had yet to be seen, and Barbara assumed it was because he was doing last minute briefings with Cyclone and Warlock.

Throwing her duffle on the bottom bunk to claim it, much to the annoyance of Phoenix who Barbara just sent a cheeky look to since Halo had already claimed the second bottom bunk, Barbara unpacked her portable memory foam cushion, pillow and thick blanket to lay on the bed. “God, I’m always reminded why I hate being offshore with these damn back breaking mattresses.” The two women make sounds of agreement.

“Hey,” Phoenix sticks her head over from the top bunk, “I just wanna make sure we’re on the same page. We—,” she waves a finger between her and Cali, “won’t have to deal with the possibility of walking in on something between you and Rooster—.”

“Trace, do not finish that sentence!”

“I just want to make sure I don’t see anything I’m not supposed to, C.”

“For God's sake, I am not that shallow. You know the rules.”

“Oh, now you care about rules. That’s the first time I’ve ever heard those words come out of your mouth.” Barbara flipped her off, making the brunette giggle.

“Gotta keep on my P’s and Q’s if I wanna keep my job,” she mumbles under her breath. Last thing she needed was Cyclone adding more shit to his case against her.

“So you two are back together?” Halo wonders with a smile. Barbara groans, putting a hand to her face while the other flips off Phoenix again. Her laughter has the woman tilt her head back with closed eyes like she was praying to a higher power to give her the strength.

She could only imagine what Rooster was dealing with.

Barbara brings her hands together with a deep exhale, “It’s complicated. He came over last night. We…..talked—.”

“Yeah right,” Phoenix snorted. “I saw the look in that man’s eyes last night when he asked for your address. He was on a mission.”

“Natasha…”

“Look, you two are grown ups—once married—and the past week has been filled with suffocating sexual tension.” At Barbara’s mortified look, Phoenix chuckles and goes back to sorting her stuff. “You don’t have to hide the fact y’all hooked up. I mean, we can all put it together since you carpooled.”

Halo agrees, “Yeah, C. Everyone knows—no need to be shy about it. Plus when was the last time you got laid?” Barbara refuses to answer the question, a light blush coating her cheeks. It was embarrassing for the woman to admit the previous night was the first in over two years. Even Rooster had commented how tight she was which made her more flustered. The truth was she tried to have casual hookups a year after the divorce, but the poor guys could not satisfy her. There was no one like Rooster and it was obvious he ruined her for any other man.

They all had poor stamina, couldn’t make her finish, or just overall were bad. It wasn’t like she had a lot of partners—quite frankly it was only three. And she wasn’t going to ask Rooster if he had been with anyone at that time. It wouldn’t be surprising and she had no right to judge. Humans have needs—sexual attraction is part of nature.

Once the three finished up they reported to the mess hall for breakfast. A glare was sent to Rooster when he sat his happy ass down beside Barbara, aware the others were staring at them with mixed expressions. Most of them were amused. “Seriously?” She hissed, stabbing the eggs with a fork.

“What?” He shrugged like he didn’t know what she was talking about. But she knew him better than that.

“Don’t act like you don’t know what you’re doing, Bradshaw.” The fork waved in his face to emphasize her point. All he did was smirk in return, turning his head away as he brought his coffee to his lips. Phoenix was loving it much to Barbara’s annoyance. So was Payback who was seated next to Rooster.

Breakfast went by fast and soon they were ushered into a room to be debriefed on the day's plans. It would be at least another 24 hours before they were close to the desired location. The time went fast before they knew it. As the hours passed nerves surfaced from everyone on board the carrier. The Dagger Squad were often called away for private briefings and Barbara managed to run into her father at one point which led to the man finding out what happened between her and Rooster.

“I didn’t see your bike or car in the parking lot,” he casually said, noticing the way her body stiffened. “Did you catch a ride with someone?”

“Yeah,” she coughed, hand coming up to block it when really she was trying to hide the blush forming on her cheeks. Without looking at Mav, she admitted, “Bradley and I actually rode together.”

“Oh,” His voice went low, mouth forming an ‘o’ shape. Though he was tempted to question the details, the awkward shuffle from his daughter plus the avoidance of looking him in the eye was enough to at least imply something happened. A red color appeared on his own cheeks and Maverick looked away to clear his throat. He decided not to say a word in the end and instead give a curt nod.

Talk about awkward.

Something else that could have had that same feeling came when Barbara was walking to her room late that night and was suddenly pulled from the side into a storage closet. “What the fuck—!” A hand clamped over her mouth as she was brought to a hard chest. The light was off with little light emitting from the window on the door, but the musky scent of familiar cologne had the pilot push away the hand and playfully smack his chest. “Jesus Christ, Bradshaw. Are you out of your mind?”

Rooster lifted her up, securing her legs around his waist with his hands resting on her ass to hold her up. “Sorry, baby.” The apology was flat because in all honesty he wasn’t sorry. Barely could she make out the smug expression on his face.

Barbara tightened her arms that hung around his neck, “What are we teenagers? You can get demoted if we’re caught.” A shudder coursed through her when Rooster started to leave a trail of kisses from her ear to her jaw. “Dammit, Bradshaw, now is not the time to be reckless like me,” she groaned, biting her lip to stop the smile peeking out.

“I missed you,” he whined against her skin, walking a bit so they were pressed against the wall and away from the door. Pleasure filled him when he felt Barbara run her fingers through his hair, aiming for the curls that rested on the nape of his neck.

“You’re a menace,” her lips brushed over his, feeling his smile against her own. “You’ve seen me all day—except for maybe three hours when you were called for a meeting.”

“Still, I missed being close to you,” he presses into her more, “Been waiting all day to get you alone.”

“Oh so you just so happened to know I would be coming down the hallway at that given moment and waited for your chance?”

“Yeah,” he shrugged like it was the most obvious answer. “Baby, now that I have you back in my arms I don’t ever wanna let you go. I’ll take whatever time I can get to be touching and kissing you even if it means sneaking like kids and fooling around in a closet.” With that he leaned in and sealed their lips together. After the sweet kiss that morning, Rooster was counting down the minutes until he could taste Barbara again.

It was like a spark had reignited between the two. While the stance of their relationship was sorta on the fence with no official title, there was no doubt in question they loved each other. Longing looks and light touches as they passed became a habit throughout the day. Unfortunately the addiction Rooster had for Barbara and vice versa was difficult in their situation. Neither had rooms to themselves where they could sneak off to and the carrier had their friends, Maverick, and the Admirals. If they were to get caught in a frisky position word would spread like wildfire.

“You better calm that boner I feel against me, Lieutenant. There’s no way I’m letting you fuck me against this wall when anyone could pass by at any given second.” His groan made her chuckle, pressing a kiss to his pouty lips. “I’m in enough hot water as it is. I’m not gonna let you be in the same boat when you’ve got something big in less than a day.”

“Can we at least make out for a bit?” The question was so expected of Rooster and the tone in which he said it had Barbara slapping a hand to her mouth to muffle her laughter. Rooster giggled with her, adjusting her in his arms when she slid a bit. One calm, Barbara put her hand to his cheek, “Sure, pretty boy. You’ve got fifteen minutes—better make it worthwhile.”

That was a day ago. Now Barbara was walking across the runway of the carrier with Maverick. Cyclone had called a meeting with everyone on board to go over the plan of action one last time just before she found him alone muttering the words, “Talk to me, Goose.”

The jets were lined up, pre-flight checks in order as the pilots arrived. Barbara and Mav walked together with his arm over her shoulder. Several glances were sent their way but Barbara kept her eyes forward as they approached his F-18. Squeezing his hand, Barbara said, “I’ll be right back,” and left for Phoenix and Bob. Jogging over just before they could climb in, Barbara pulled the dark-haired woman into a hug. “You better kick ass out there, Phee.” This mission was personal to Barbara on so many levels.

It has the lives of her father, lover, and friends on the line.

“When have I ever not, C?” She teased back, tightening the hug before releasing so Barbara could do the same to Bob.

“When you get back we’re going dancing like old times.” Back when she and Rooster were married, they had been stationed together with Nat and the two women made it a tradition to have a girls night whenever one returned from an assignment. When Pheonix agreed with a ‘hell yeah’, Barb patted Bob's arm, “Bob here can even join in.”

“Uhh-I-I uh don’t really dance.”

“We’ll teach you,” the wink she sent caused a blush to his cheeks. It reminded her of when they first met just a few short weeks ago. With one last good luck, Barbara departed and went to Fanboy and Payback. She made it quick with a hug and threatening to kick their ass if they didn’t come back in one piece. Spinning on her heel, she made her way back to Mav while looking around for Bradley. When she caught sight of him he wasn’t alone.

Hangman was with him.

It appeared that no words were exchanged with the two men just staring at each other. Then as Barbara got closer she faintly heard over the noise Jake shouting, “you give em’ hell!” Rooster looked stunned, not expecting the words from his rival. As Hangman passed him he remained still, head slightly turning but gaze on the ground. He hadn’t noticed Baraba approaching from the side, who gave a nod to Jake when they caught eyes, but soon lifted his head to find her staring back at him with a nervous expression.

The tension in his posture disappeared, legs moving at a fast rate to close the distance between them. Rooster didn’t care they were out in the open, in uniform, and should be climbing into his jet at that very second. No, he stormed right up to Barbara, free hand not holding his helmet cupping her jaw and bending down to bring her into a searing kiss. The gasp she emitted has his tongue sliding past her lips, deepening the kiss for all eyes to see.

Which all eyes did see. Maverick was trying not to intrude but there was a small smile on his lips. It brought him great joy the two were together again in each other’s arms despite the inner conflict at what they were about to face. On the opposite side the foxtrot teams were exchanging knowing looks, happy while also worried. Hell even Hangman was reacting the same, not ruining the moment with some snide comment.

“I love you,” Barbara stood on her tippy toes, thumb tracing over the scars on Roosters face as tears watered her eyes. “I love you so much, Bradley.”

“I love you too, baby,” he kissed all over her face, holding back his own emotion to not worry her further. God how much he missed hearing those words.

“You got this. As much as I believe in you, you have to believe in yourself more than anything. Trust your instincts. You better—,” she sniffed, pushing a hand against his chest where his heart lay, “—You better fucking come back to me. Or I swear to God, Bradley, I’ll never forgive you. I’ll kick your ass in the afterlife if I have to.” She feels him press his lips to her forehead, lingering there for a second while her eyes close.

“I have to come back, so I can take you to the chapel and wife you up again.”

All the air leaves Barbara, eyes snapping wide open to stare at him in disbelief, “W-what? Are you serious right now?” Did she really hear that right or was she daydreaming? It had to have been a joke.

But it wasn’t a joke.

His face was serious, the sweat bedding along his hairline slowly dripping down as he stared into her soul. “Marry me, Barbara Mitchell. Be my wife again, please. I know I fucked up once—my biggest regret that will haunt me forever—and I will spend the rest of my life making it up if you have me again.” His lips curl up a bit at her look of bewilderment, “Hell we can even get the Chaplin on board to officiate right now—.”

“O-oh my God, no—,” she stuttered out with a watery laugh, her heart literally pounding out of her chest. Leave it to Rooster to want to elope minutes before he’s about to embark on a life or death mission. “We are not shotgunning this again like last time.”

“So is that a yes then?” He smiles at her, eyes full of love and adoration which she mirrors.

Instead of answering yes or no, Barbara simply kisses him and says, “Come back to me and you’ll get your answer.” He kisses her back passionately, knowing damn well it was a yes. Her previous sentence had sealed the deal for him. But, because of the situation Barbara couldn’t bring herself to say the word. There was still that fear something could go wrong.

Together hand in hand they approach his plane but instead of Bradley climbing in they move toward Maverick. “Sir.” Maverick turns around to see the two, Rooster addressing him. Barbara squeezes his hand before letting go and stepping back to give the two space. “I…I just wanna say—,” the sound of the flight crew announcing orders interrupts the pilot. Several crew members run past them, the clock ticking down till go time.

“We’ll talk,” Mav tells him with a nod, “when we get back.” It was a promise. One that sent a wave of anxiety through Barbara as she took in Roosters distressed expression. There was something about the way Maverick said the words that, although assuring, felt worrisome.

A moment passes, then Bradley gives the Captain a nod before spinning around. Placing one last kiss to Barbara’s lips, the two holding each other’s gaze to convey the unspoken words they wished to say, Rooster moves to his jet while she watches on.

“B-Bradley!” Maverick suddenly shouts, causing Rooster to halt his movements. “You got this.” The simple phrase had Barbara’s tears resurface. It was all Rooster wanted to hear from Maverick. Yeah she told him the same thing just moments ago, but it was impactful to hear it from the person he’s trained his entire career to prove himself to.

Barbara could tell the words cut deeply into Rooster, the man releasing a shaky breath as he nodded. When he meets her eye Barbara mouths, ‘I love you,’ which he returns before saluting, shaking the hand of the crew member, and climbing into the F-18. It’s then that Barbara goes to Maverick, arms already open to embrace him. It was no doubt her eyes were rimmed with red after crying so much in the span of just twenty minutes. Her reputation of being an ice cold, nearly emotionless aviator was about to tarnish.

But who could really blame Barbara Mitchell? They’d probably be in the same shoes.

And for Pete Mitchell, he couldn’t remember the last time he’d hug his daughter so much. Their strained relationship and her avoidance of his physical touch as a teen and young adult made him realize how precious moments like this were. How he missed out on so much by putting his career first.

He missed her first steps. Her first words. Her first birthday. The first day of school. Her first recital. The first time she broke a bone playing soccer. Her first heartbreak. Her high school prom.

Her college graduation.

Her commission.

Her wedding day.

Pete Maverick Mitchell hardly had regrets for he believed the path one takes was meant to be walked. But in that moment, if he could turn back time and choose a new one, without hesitation he’d choose the one that would have him be the father Barbara deserved, even if it meant giving up the piece of his life he was devoted to. To be a better man for her. For Barbara Caroline ‘Legacy’ Mitchell is who he should have been devoted to from the very beginning the second she was brought into the world. His legacy.

“I love you, dad.”

“I love you too, my darling girl.”

…………………………….

Tag List: @multiple-fandoms-girl, @maverick-wingman, @sgt-huntersupremacy, @the-winter-marvel33, @calicokel, @justanothermagicalsara, @lydia-demarek, @alanadetigy, @shrimping-for-all, @chaoticassidy, @nemtodd-barnes1923, @bradleysgirl, @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy, @mak-32

[ofstoriesandstardust]

the in between (pete “maverick” mitchell)

a/n: i will be caught dead before i write maverick x reader. but i will do anything to write about Maverick as a Dad. you can pry the same mistakes universe from my cold dead hands, idc idc

summary: moments from what happened between landing back on the aircraft carrier with Rooster alive to reconvening back at the Miramar base leading the Iron Daggers. Maverick learns that he’s missed out out a lot more of his daughter’s life then he would’ve liked

part of the same mistakes-verse

main masterlist | top gun: masterlist

warnings: i tailor the Navy to fit my fics not the other way around idc, food mentions, yes i do have a couch in my childhood bedroom what about it, i often imagine Rebel as like being a flamingo who would stick the head in their sand rather than deal with their feelings and problems, i don’t even know if this is good 

word count: 4,532

Maverick blinked awake, taking in the darkness of the room in the med bay, the barely noticeable shifting of the carrier bringing a small bit of comfort. A quick glance around the room showed him Phoenix was passed out in the chair next to Rooster’s bed, the man snoring softly. Bob’s lanky figure was laid out uncomfortably on the opposite of his bed. Fanboy and Payback were curled up into a bunch of chairs at the foot of the bed and he chuckled to himself. They must’ve all fell asleep at some point after he did. The moon shown through as he glanced over, catching Coyote looking at his phone from a chair at the foot of his bed. No (Y/N), he noted. Looking up from his phone, Coyote realized he was awake and quickly put the phone away. Coyote moved closer, very conscious of the sleeping figures of his team mates. “Hey Mav.” He whispered.

“Where’s (Y/N)?” He asked. Here, with Coyote, he knew it was safe to use her real name. Coyote nodded his head to the door. 

“Tarmac.”

“It’s late, why is she out there?” Coyote shrugged. 

“Just thinking, I think. I’ll probably go join her later but, uhm...” Coyote hesitated and Maverick cocked his head curiously. “No, it’s not my place.”

“Coyote.” He said carefully, taking in his reaction. 

“Well, sir, it’s just that-”

“Coyote, forget for a moment that I’m your instructor. You’re my daughter’s best friend, it’s just you and me.” Coyote nodded, still very obviously nervous. 

“Sir, you really scared her today.” His heart sank, hated hearing Coyote confirm what he had already known. “Um, but-” Coyote swallowed, clearly trying to find words. “I’m also worried about your decision to select Rooster as your wingman is gonna do.” Maverick shook his head, uncertain by what the younger pilot meant. 

“Coyote, how long have you known my daughter now?” 

“Two years, sir.” 

“And how close are the two of you actually?” Coyote nodded slowly, thinking about it.

“We had an, uh, rocky start, but I’d give my life for her. She’s my best friend.”

“Then you know her well.”

“Yes sir, I’d say so, sir.”

“Then how would my decision to select Rooster as wingman affect her?” Coyote shifted uncomfortably, clearly weighing which route to take. Maverick felt his breath catch in his throat. His daughter had been through a lot. He also wouldn’t pretend that he didn’t see the world weigh on her, a certain familiar loneliness appearing in her eyes every time the two of them talked. Coyote finally sighed. 

“Sir, I don’t really know if it’s my place-”

“Coyote.” Coyote sighed. 

“All I feel I should say is that, well- you should be prepared for your relationship with your daughter to change.” A beat. “If not end entirely.” Maverick felt like his world was spinning as he took in the pilot’s words. “Sir, I don’t know what happened between you and Rooster or her and Rooster. But I do know that she carries the weight of everything on her shoulders and I don’t know if she’ll walk away from this one the same.” Coyote let out a deep breath. “I- I should go check on her.” He said, standing up slowly, glancing at the still restful figures of his teammates. 

“Coyote.” The man turned to look at Maverick and it was the first time Maverick had really seen Coyote. He had to admit that Coyote had not ever been one of his first choices for this mission, but his daughter cared for the man, that much was clear. He saw the friendship that existed between the two of him, reminding him of his own with Goose back in the day. He swallowed, pushing that thought away. 

“Sir?”

“Thank you for looking out for my daughter.” 

-

“Hangman, don’t wake them up.” Bob. 

“I don’t care about Pops or Rebel, but man, I wanna talk to Coyote.” Hangman. 

“I’m sleeping.” Coyote.

“Are not.” Hangman. 

“Would you shut up? You’re gonna wake them.” Rooster. 

“Lil’ princess looks so peaceful.” Payback.

“She won’t be if you don’t shut the fuck up.” His daughter. 

He slowly shifted, blinking awake for the second time. He took in the figures of the squadron crammed into their section of the med bay. His sight fell onto his daughter who was leaned on his bed, holding on to his hand. He tapped her hand with his finger and she looked up, rubbing her eyes. He nodded his head and scooted over. Without hesitation, his half-asleep daughter climbed up on to the bed and into the spot he had patted, almost as if she was 5 again. She all but collapsed into his chest, and he winced slightly. Emergency ejection had not been kind to his old body. He was really getting too old for this. She clutched on to his arm as if he might disappear if she didn’t and promptly fell back asleep. 

“Aw, this is so cute.” Phoenix commented from her post next to Rooster’s bed.

“Someone tell me they’re taking a picture of this for later use.” Hangman taunted and Coyote kicked his shin. Maverick looked over at Coyote who was clearly awake but had his head leaned up against the wall, eyes closed. 

“Coyote.” Maverick said and Coyote opened an eye. 

“How late were you up with her?” He shrugged and closed his eye.

“Like, dawn? I don’t know, the sun was up when we made our way back in here.” Maverick blinked. His daughter had spent the entire night on the tarmac of an aircraft carrier, awake, talking to her best friend. He wasn’t sure if he should be glad she had someone to sit with her or concerned she hadn’t gone to bed. 

“Where were the two of you last night?” Hangman asked and Coyote didn’t respond. “You know, sometimes I really doubt that the two of you are as platonic as you tell everyone you are.”

“Hangman, when you and your wingman almost die together, you’re kinda bonded for life dude.” Came Coyote’s response. 

“Wait, when did this happen?” Rooster asked. Maverick vaguely knew what incident he was referring to but it’d happened while he was still in Afghanistan before he’d gotten transferred to the Mojave Desert. He hadn’t been around for the aftermath, not nearly as much as Ice had. Coyote waved a hand, brushing Rooster off. 

“Long time ago. Don’t worry about it.” 

“Maverick?” Rooster asked curiously. He shrugged in response. The door opened and in walked Cyclone, Warlock not far behind him. 

“Admiral Simpson.” Bob said hurriedly, and those not sleeping (Coyote, Rebel) quickly stood up. Maverick and Rooster couldn’t, seeing as they were still bed-bound and Maverick had the problem of his daughter clutching to his arm. Cyclone took in the forms of a sleeping Coyote and Rebel clutched to her Dad and a hint of a smile appeared on his face. 

“At ease. I wanted to let you know about a few changes regarding your postings and debriefings schedule, but uh...” Cyclone concluded, looking at Rebel. Coyote at this point was awake and half-paying attention, if still slumped down in the chair. Maverick nudged Rebel. 

“Hey, wake up.”

“I’m awake.” Came the muffled reply and Maverick sighed. he looked over at the two and half-shrugged. Cyclone shook his head and turned back to the rest of the group. 

“Someone can fill her in later. I just wanted to let you know that we’ll be docking at 1700 hours. You’ll all have three weeks leave, starting tomorrow.” A collective murmur of excitment rippled through the group. “At the end of which, you’ll reconvene in Miramar for debriefings and then you’ll be joined together as an official squadron, the Iron Daggers, should you choose to accept the post. Captain Mitchell here will be your instructor, should he choose to accept the post.”

“He better.” Rebel stated and he glanced down at his daughter. “I’m still pissed off about him emergency ejecting from Mach 10.”

“He what?” Rooster asked and she shifted up, looking over at him. 

“You didn’t know that? Yeah, he emergency ejected and landed in the middle of nowhere in the desert. Right before we all got called back for the special detachment.”

“How do you know about that?” Maverick asked curiously. He had kept that from her on purpose, knowing she’d worry about him. 

“Ice told me. Because you fly like you don’t have anyone to come home for.” He flinched slightly at that comment.  She let go of his arm and shifted off the bed. He was little disappointed she elected to take a seat next to Coyote, but he figured he probably had a lot to answer for with how much he made her worry. 

“Anyways, I just wanted to give you all that update. Hopefully, I will see you all back in three weeks. Have a good rest of your day aviators.” Cyclone finished with a smile and exited the room with Warlock. Chatter picked up in the room as the team discussed their plans for leave and what had just happened. He assumed he’d spend the three weeks in the desert, Rebel in tow, and hopefully Rooster would join them. 

“How do the two of you do that?” Hangman exclaimed and Maverick looked over. Coyote and Rebel were looking at each other, clearly having a silent conversation. “You guys like, communicate telepathically.” 

Coyote finally groaned, stretching out and standing up. “We’re gonna go get food.” He said to no one in particular and his daughter followed suit and then disappeared out the door at the same time the medical staff reappeared to clear him and Rooster for discharge. Hangman was still looking around baffled. 

-

He wasn’t sure when the decision was made to come to his house for dinner but there everyone was, piling into his house. He laughed at them. “(Y/N), go give everyone the tour. I’m gonna order pizza.” She groaned, flopping down on the couch. 

“I’ll do it, I’ve been here before.” Coyote volunteered, laughing. 

“When have you been in my house?” He asked, turning to Coyote. He shrugged looking at (Y/N). 

“We got three days leave a few months after I got assigned to the Green Vipers. It wasn’t enough time for Coyote to go home and I figured it was silly to make Coyote get a hotel when he could stay here. He just likes to pretend that he doesn’t remember I’m from here, because he’s annoying.” She explained as Coyote laughed at her, dodging her foot that was trying to kick him off the couch. 

“C’mon, I’ll show y’all the house.” Coyote said and Maverick chuckled to himself as he went into he kitchen, ordering the pizza. He was slightly embarrassed about the amount they were ordering but knowing these kids, it’d be nothing. The group came back around as he came out into the living room. His daughter was still on the couch, feet dangling off as Coyote slid in easily next to her. 

“Who's Switch?” Fanboy asked. 

“Mine.” (Y/N) responded. “You think ol’ Mav over here knows how to work any gaming system from this century?” He scoffed at that, shaking his head. It was true, he didn’t understand how to work his daughter’s gaming console and didn’t totally understand why she’d bought it in the first place. He wasn’t going to tell her that though. “You wanna play?” Fanboy nodded and she sat up. “Okay, let me go get changed. “

“Hey, pizza should be here soon. I’m gonna go to the store and get drinks and stuff. Anybody want anything in particular?” He asked and there were a few requests he took. He watched out of the corner of his eye as (Y/N) grabbed her car keys off the hook in the kitchen and tossed them to him. 

“Don’t crash my car.” She warned and he laughed. 

“Hey Pops, do you think I could come with?” Hangman asked and he nodded. 

“I’ll go too!” Coyote volunteered. 

“Okay, here’s the money for the delivery guy.” He said, handing the money out of his wallet to his daughter, who promptly turned around and gave it to Bob, making it his problem. He rolled his eyes and turned to the two men who were joining him. “Alright, let’s go. We’ll be back soon.”

-

“You’re doing it again!” Hangman exclaimed and startled, Maverick looked over from Rooster to Coyote and Rebel. The squadron had been discussing their plans and flight details for their leave. The idea had been raised earlier in the night about spending the night at the Mitchell residence and apparently that had been the decision the team had made. They turned and Coyote and rebel turned towards them. “You’re doing the thing, where you talk to each other, without ever saying anything. It’s all... in your faces!” Hangman exclaimed and Maverick glanced curiously at the blond man. He had a feeling Hangman wasn’t used to having to share Coyote. 

“We don’t do that.” Coyote defended and Hangman spluttered. (Y/N) grabbed her keys from the counter.

“We’re going to the grocery store.” She said and without explaining, turned for the front door. Maverick shook his head after the pair left. 

“She’s so weird.” He muttered. Rooster gave half a laugh.

“She’s your kid.” 

-

He watched with laughter at the way his daughter ran around the house, delegating sleeping arrangement’s and blankets and pillows to the crew. He puttered around in the kitchen cleaning when she finally walked in. “The children are tucked in.” She joked as she stood opposite from him, leaning up against the counter. 

“Where’s everyone sleeping?” She sighed, trying to think. 

“Coyote and me in my bed. No.” She protested, seeing the look on his face. “Fanboy and Payback on the big air mattress on the floor of my room. Halo’s on the couch in my room. Phoenix and Rooster are on the bed in the guest room. Bob’s on the other air mattress in the guest room. Yale and Harvard are on the floor of the guest room in the sleeping bags and Omaha decided to sleep in the hallway. Hangman’s on the recliner in the living room, I think.” 

“I still can’t believe I let you put a couch in your room when you were 15.” He said, shaking his head. 

“Oh, it’s a loveseat anyways, let it go.” He laughed at that as he settled against the counter as well. 

“Anyways, listen, I’m gonna head out to the hangar for the next few weeks. I think Rooster is gonna join us as well. So, unless you’ve got some grand plans for leave I don’t know about...” His daughter shook her head.

“Can I just meet you out there? I promised Coyote I’d take him to the airport.” Maverick nodded.

“Sure, sounds good kiddo. Speaking of-”

“No, I already know where you’re going with this. There’s nothing going on between me and Coyote.” Mav narrowed his eyes at his daughter. 

“I wouldn’t get you in trouble if you were. He’s a good kid.” 

“Dad, I swear on Iceman’s life that Coyote and I have not nor ever will be romantically or sexually involved. We are just good ol’ platonic besties.” He cringed slightly at the implication of the words but nodded. 

“I just wouldn’t be mad, that’s all. I like him, and you could do worse.” She shook her head. 

“No, we’ve been tight since The Incident, but just friends.” She gave a half laugh and shook her head. “I never told him this, not that it would mean much to him, but I realized a couple days before we got the re-assignment order that he was my Goose.” He took in a sharp breath at her words, flashing back to the memories of the days he flew with his best friend. 

“I’m glad you have a Goose.” He whispered and she nodded, a faraway look in her eyes. 

“Yeah, me too.” A silence settled between them as they took in the quietness of the house. He cleared his throat finally.

“Anyways, what’s going on with you and Rooster these days?” She shrugged. 

“Hell if I know.” She said and he smirked at her. “What?”

“You have a thing for him.” She spluttered, gaping at him. 

“No, I don’t! You come off that because Coyote won’t let it go either.” Maverick shrugged. 

“Whatever you say kiddo. But you should probably talk to him while we’re at the hangar. The two of you have a lot to discuss.”

“No, the two of you have a lot to discuss. I’ve got nothing left to say to him.”

“(Y/N)-”

“I’m going to bed.” 

-

He woke up to chatter and music coming from the kitchen and... was that bacon? He shifted up slightly, groaning once again at the ache of his injuries. They could’ve been worse but he was getting too old to keep doing this. He rolled out of the bed and opened the door, realizing it was in fact bacon he’d smelled. He wandered out to the kitchen, silently laughing at the figure of Hangman still sleeping. And then- 

He took in the sight of the kitchen counter covered in fruit, cinnamon rolls, pastries, donuts, different beverages and the squadron crowded around. His gaze moved along to Coyote and (Y/N), who were cooking. He took in the eggs, bacon, two types of sausage, three different kids of potatoes, pancakes and waffles, that were all being cooked. “What in the world?” He muttered and Bob looked up at him. 

“I don’t know, we all woke up to them cooking and they wouldn’t let us help.” Rebel caught sight of him and smiled. 

“Hey Dad, you woke up just in time. Food’s just about ready and then we were going to take it out to the patio and sit out there.” He nodded dumbly, trying to take in the fact that his kid was now some sort of chef. Or at least, Coyote was. He wasn’t sure how much she’d helped. 

“The hell’s this?” Hangman sleepily mumbled from behind him. “This what the two of you were doing at the store last night?” The pair nodded as they finished plating everything. He watched as his daughter began again delegating people to taking things outside to their patio area. She wasn’t a natural-born leader, but Ice had done a pretty good job of turning her into one. 

-

“Dad?”

“In the kitchen.” He called back, hearing his daughter come through the front door. Rooster paused slightly while eating, hearing (Y/N) too. She appeared in the doorway. 

“Mmm, smells good.” She said, and he looked down at the pasta he had made. It had actually been a dish she opted for a lot during high school and it was simple, but he was tired and feeling nostalgic for the days when his kids were much younger. 

“How was the drive?” He asked as she grabbed a bowl out of the cabinet. He was surprised she remembered her way around this place with such ease, not sure when the last time she’d been here had been. He glanced over at Rooster, who looked mildly nervous. “It’ll be fine.” He mouthed and Rooster nodded slowly, looking back down at his food.

“Good. Quiet. I realized on the drive out here this is the longest in two years Coyote and I will have gone without seeing each other. Just a tad weird.” She said, emotion coloring her tone as she grabbed food and sat down in the chair next to Rooster, opposite him. 

“You and Coyote are pretty close huh?” Rooster asked, an awkward attempt at making conversation. She nodded. 

“Yeah, kind of the equivalent of you and Phoenix.” 

“But you’ve been getting to fly together for the last two years.” She nodded. Maverick had to admit that this sight in front of him was odd. For the time in years, his kids were together and things were awkward. They’d never been awkward between Bradley and (Y/N). 

“How’s the Golden Warriors?” She asked and Rooster half-shrugged.

“Not too bad.” She nodded again, clearly at a loss for continuing the conversation. Mav cleared his throat and they both looked at him. 

“Why don’t you both come out to the hangar? I’ve got some stuff I want to show the both of you.” Rooster nodded and (Y/N) sighed. 

“Fine, but I’m bringing my dinner.” Rooster chuckled and he laughed. 

“I’d expect nothing less from you kiddo.” They walked the short distance out to the hangar and he held open the side door as the two walked in. He gestured to the small side table as he moved further back to some boxes. He heard the scraping of chairs and he went for the box he knew had the things he’d been looking for. He pulled out two envelopes and turned back to Bradley and (Y/N). He set the respective letters down in front of their owners, each name in a different set of handwriting. Bradley’s name was in Carole’s, (Y/N)’s was in Natalie’s. They both looked up at him and he cleared his throat. “Bradley, your Mom left that for you when she died. She said I’d know when was the right time to give it to you and I guess that’s now. (Y/N), the night your Mom left, she handed me that. I think she had it written for a while before she did finally leave. I’ve debated all these years on giving it to you but I don’t see why you shouldn’t have it.” The pair cautiously picked up the envelopes and then glanced at each other. They opened the envelopes and slowly began reading. He wasn’t sure what Natalie’s said, but he watched as his daughter became very more visibly upset. Not more than two minutes later, she was dropping the letter on the table, turning on her heel and headed back towards the house, dinner long forgotten. 

-

He and Rooster had had a long conversation in the hangar, a necessary one. The one they’d been avoiding for years and one that had mended their relationship and brought them both closure. He was very aware his daughter was somewhere in the house upset, but he’d also known his daughter to need to be alone when she was like this. It wasn’t often the subject of her mother got brought up and she was always very quick to shut it down. He paused in the hallway, seeing Rooster wander over to the couch where she was sitting, lights completely off. He elected to turn to his bedroom instead, letting them have a much needed talk.

-

He awoke this next morning and meandered out to the kitchen in search of food. He was greeted with the sight of Rooster sitting alone at the kitchen counter, quietly eating cereal. “Hey Brad.”

“Hey Maverick.” There was something in his voice that caused him to turn, mildly concerned. He took Roster in and he sighed, setting his spoon down. “She’s gone.”

-

The sound of keys opening the door to the house in San Diego alerted him that his daughter was back, from where, he wasn’t sure. It was almost 10 pm, this being their last day of leave, and he hadn’t seen her since she’d left the hangar the first night. He had been back a few hours but had elected to stay in the living room, waiting for her to come home. To ensure she was okay. He turned from the TV show he wasn’t really watching to take her in. She seemed to be doing okay. “Hey kiddo.” He said and she turned from where she was trying to disappear down the hallway. 

“Oh, hey.”

“Where’ve you been?” 

“Picking Coyote up from the airport. His flight was late.” He nodded, muting the TV and nodding his head towards the seat next to him on the couch. 

“Sit down, we need to talk.” She didn’t move from her position, leaned up against the frame of the hallway. 

“You gonna lecture your grown adult daughter for leaving?” Her voice was slightly hostile and he took a deep breath, knowing she was looking for an argument. He wasn’t sure what she was angry about but he could guess. 

“No, but I would like to know why.” She huffed.

“You and Rooster had some stuff to figure out. Didn’t me there for that.”

“Yes, but you and Rooster also have some things you need to figure out as well.” She rolled her eyes.

“No, we don’t.” He gave his daughter a careful look. 

“This has nothing to do with Rooster and everything to do with the mission, doesn’t it?” She shook her head. 

“Just let it go Dad.”

“No, I won’t let it go.”

“Dad, you can’t fix everything!”

“I know that, but I’ll be damned if I don’t try to fix what happened between my kids.”

“And why should I fix anything with him? Huh, he’s the one who-”

“Carole is the one who asked me to pull Bradley’s papers.” She stopped, staring at him. She blinked once, and then twice. “And I made a mistake by not telling you what I did and by not telling him why I did what I did. So, please let me fix this.” She turned away from him that, slamming her bedroom door behind her. 

-

He wandered into the classroom, trying to discreetly search for his kid. Bradley was already here with Phoenix and Bob. “Hey Mav.” Phoenix called and he raised a hand in greeting. 

“Hey Mav, is Rebel with you?” Bradley asked and he shook his head. 

“No, she was gone this morning when I got up.” Bradley nodded, seemingly lost in thought. He didn’t miss the way Bob and Phoenix exchanged a look. He stood at the front of the classroom, patiently waiting as the rest of the team filtered in. Finally a few minutes before they were due to start, he heard Coyote’s voice coming down the hallway. He felt relieved knowing his kid was just with her best friend. But as the door opened, he realized it was only Coyote and Hangman, no (Y/N). 

“Hey Coyote. Hangman.” Payback greeted. “Rebel with you?” Coyote shook his head. 

“Maybe she got so sick of your shit Hangman, that she went back to the Green Vipers.” Fanboy teased and Coyote snorted in disbelief. 

“That’ll be a cold day in hell.” Maverick glanced curiously at Coyote, wondering why his daughter disliked her squadron so much, she wouldn’t want to go back that bad. Coyote and Hangman took their seats, all too aware that their debriefing would start in matter of moments. And then, there was the sound of boots hurrying on the tile and his daughter slipping into her seat next to Coyote. He watched as different members of her squadron threw her varying glances as Cyclone called everyone to attention. He shook off the annoyance and concern directed at his daughter, and mustered up a smile. These were his kids now, and they were all his priority. Bring them home alive, remember? 

[sailorsolar12]

Beach Days Part 3 - Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw x FemMitchellOC

Here is Part 3 of Beach Days. I am not sure how many parts this is going to be, but I know based on how I write, I will make it at least three.

Part 1, Part 2

Rating: T+

Words: 2.0k

Warning: Some agnst, fluff, screaming, swearing, tears, overprotective fathers, little bit of an age gap (11 years), and Hangman being Hangman.

Summary: As the daughter of Pete Mitchell and Penny Benjamin, Lily - nicknamed Sunshine by the pilots of Top Gun- had grown up with Bradley Bradshaw. She had admired him when she was a child, but now she didn’t know if she hated him or loved him after blaming her for what her father did when he pulled Bradley’s papers. A day at the beach changes the perspective of a lot of people while Lily’s father tries to train the pilots called back to Top Gun to be a team.

Sunshine sat nervously in Bradley's Bronco and kept looking out of the window and not at him. She didn't know how to talk to him anymore. They had spent so much time apart and not speaking to each other that she had no idea if he still liked the same things, had the same hobbies, etc. The brown haired, green eyed woman looked up as Bradley parked in front of her small house. She swallowed feeling her nerves twist her inside to knots and make her hands sweaty. Why was she so nervous? Could her mother have been right? Could the crush she had had on Bradley as a child turned into something she never realized before? She slowly got out and took her house keys out of her purse. She needed to have this conversation with him to make him understand he can't just apologize to her and expect everything to be okay.

Sunshine turned to Bradley as they arrived at her front door. She motioned to the shoe rack. "Put your shoes there. There are new slippers inside the closet to the right as soon as you walk in. Are you still a size 9?" The brunette watched Bradley for a moment as he went wide eyed before nodding and taking off his shoes like she asked him too. Sunshine opened the front door and the closet door getting her slippers out and putting her jacket away before letting Bradley do the same. A soft curse left her lips as she heard the sound of small patters. Within seconds, a beautiful white and light tan husky ran around the corner with a derpy smile on its face while its blue eyes shined in excitement at seeing her. "Uh oh," Sunshine said as she was tackled and covered in kisses and licks and slobber.

Bradley blinked and looked down seeing Lily on the floor with a husky on top of her. He bit the inside of his cheek trying to hold back his laughter but failed miserably as he snorted before it turned into full blown laughter at what was happening. He held his stomach and leaned against the closed front door trying to keep himself upright before a sudden yelp escaped his throat, and Lily's husky set their sights on him and tackled him...jumping up whining and kissing him cause the dog was excited to see a new person in its owner's home. He narrowed his eyes hearing Lily giggle at his misfortune.

Lily smiled seeing her husky - whom she had affectionately named Ahsoka Tano - not have a care in the world as she gave Bradley kisses and affection. The brunette smiled and got up off the floor and went to where the sliding glass door was to the small backyard she had and opened it to keep an eye on Ahsoka even though the pup used the built in doggy door to go to the bathroom throughout the day. She turned and busied herself with making sure the self feeding bowl and the water containers were filled. Once she finished, the brunette looked at Bradley and murmured, "Are you...um are you hungry? Or thirsty? I think I have some leftover wine or beers." Lily sounded as if she was trying to stall even if she was being a good hostess. She stopped talking as Bradley caught her hands to calm her down...which was a habit he had done for her since they were younger.

Bradley smiled gently as he caught Lily's hands to stop her from rambling and to stop her hands from shaking. "You don't have to make me anything Lily. I meant what I said earlier. I am so sorry for blaming you for what Mav did," he said softly, gazing down at her. She was still much shorter than him, and he found it amusing. His green eyes gazed into her own before he looked down at her hands and lightly let them go feeling sad at the loss of contact. The Pilot saw an unknown emotion in her eyes and could tell she seemed a little skeptical at his apology after all these years. "He told me not to blame you. He told me about the hell you put him through once you had found out about what he did with my papers. I...God I was just so angry at what he did to me and took all of it out on you because...because you were an easier target than going after Mav," he gushed, spilling his heart out to her as he turned away while closing his eyes and sighing.

Lily's eyes quickly filled with tears as her face twisted slightly. "I was an easier target?! I was easier to take your anger out on than my father - who was the one who wronged you in the first place!! That is unacceptable Bradley. You-you can't just apologize after all these years and expect me to fall at your feet! I am not a little girl anymore Bradshaw-!"

"What else am I supposed to fucking say?!" Bradley exclaimed as he turned to her, blowing up on her just like he had all those years ago. "What could I possibly fucking say or even do, Lils! I know you aren't a little girl anymore. God knows that I just now fucking realized how gorgeous you really fucking are!!" He panted softly, gazing down at her before going wide eyed as the words he said sunk into his brain. He stepped closer to her, lowering his voice. "I didn't mean to say all that shit, Lily. I never wanted to hurt you the way I did. You know full well, I never intentionally hurt you like some kind of damn idiot. I was blinded by my anger and rage and hurt like a fool." Bradley brought his hand up and lightly stroked one of Lily's cheeks with his index finger. "I missed you so damn much, Lily. I miss all the nights we would stay up without Mav knowing and watching movies. I miss talking to you. I want to have that again with you. I want my best friend back," he murmured gently.

Lily felt her throat tighten as she tried her best not to let her tears slip from her eyes. She looked up at him processing everything that he was saying to her and knew he wasn't lying, but she wasn't sure if she wanted to open her walls. She had heard his comment about her looks and felt slightly giddy at the thought of him liking her the same way she just realized she liked him. The brunette leaned into his finger lightly and murmured, "You hurt me so much Bradley. I cried almost every night for two years before I finally became numb to the pain. I...I want my best friend back too, Brad...We have both changed so much since you left, and I don't know how we would even be able to be best friends. A-And what's worse is I am almost one hundred percent positive that I don't just want you as my best friend anymore, Brad, because I...I..." Her green eyes widened for a moment in shock as Bradley leaned his head down closer to hers, and she felt a soft pressure on her lips almost as if he was hesitant and not knowing if she was okay with this. Lily felt a soft sound at the back of her throat form as she let her eyes flutter shut while she slowly returned the kiss. Time seemed to stand still for them as they kissed for the first time, and Lily had never felt happier. In fact, she - for some reason - felt like a giddy school girl confessing to her crush.

Bradley relished in the long moment as he kissed her before slowly pulling away and gazing down at her. A soft smile crossed his lips as he watched her pout at the loss of warmth. She tasted exactly like he had imagined...cherries, the sun, and a hint of motor oil from her working on planes with her father. "I care about you," he whispered lightly.

Lily giggled suddenly as she smiled and nuzzled his hand that had come up to hold her face. He was warm and calming to her. "I care about you too, Bradshaw," she whispered lightly in a teasing manner. She pulled away and pulled out the wine that she had while using her phone to turn her TV on. A smirk crossed her lips as she motioned to the cabinet with her popcorn in it. "Disney movies?" she asked lightly as they used to watch Disney Movies so often when they were younger. At his nod, they started a Disney Movie marathon well into the night while falling asleep and cuddling on the couch.

*The Next Morning*

Lily woke up in her bed confused and slightly disoriented. She swallowed thickly while looking around and saw a note next to a glass of water. The brunette opened the note seeing Bradley's familiar handwriting.

Good Morning Beautiful,

Sorry I wasn't there when you woke up. I had to report early for another day of training. I am not sure what time we are going to be done, but would it be okay if we maybe took a walk on the beach tonight just the two of us?

Yours,

Brad

P.S. Sorry Lils, but you are out of milk now...and cereal.

Lily smiled and shook her head at the note while rolling her eyes. Bradley was always like that with food. She bit her lip before getting out of bed and lightly scratched Ahsoka's head when her dog perked up from her spot on the bed. The 27 year old bit her lip as she went to her kitchen to make sure her dog's food and water were full before starting on her own breakfast of yogurt, granola, and fruit.

*Meanwhile on Base*

Bradley's head snapped to Jake's as he heard what the pilot said about Lily. "What the fuck did you just say?" he snapped interrupting the lesson Maverick was giving them.

Jake smirked and raised an eyebrow at Rooster. "What? Sunshine is single and quite beautiful. I highly doubt she'd go for someone who apparently broke her heart. What'd you do, huh? Was she an easy lay?" He was very clearly trying egg Bradley on. "I mean it must not help that your old man flew with our great Captain," he quipped.

Bradley's eyes widened as rage coursed through him and he bolted from his seat lunging at Hangman with the intent to kill. He vaguely felt Maverick, Phoenix, and Bob grabbing him to pull him away. He had a slightly wild look in his eye as he stared at Hangman. His green eyes went to Maverick who looked about ready to rip Hangman a new one because he spoke about Lily in a way that a father would never appreciate. He pointed at Jake. "Don't ever talk about Lily like that," he snapped and pulled away from Maverick, phoenix, and Bob before storming away and out of the classroom. He panted heavily trying to calm himself down. The pilot felt his phone vibrate suddenly, and when he pulled his phone out, he saw a text message from Lily.

*Thank you for last night, Brad. Plus, a walk sounds lovely.*

Bradley felt his shoulders relax slightly as he looked at his phone. A small smile crossed his lips as he chuckled to himself.

*Sorry again about the cereal and the milk.*

*You owe me for those.*

*I'll buy you more tonight.*

*I'll hold you to that Roose*

Bradley smiled at his phone feeling a lot better than he had a minute ago. He looked up seeing Mav with an eyebrow raised. "What?" he asked lightly.

"Is that Lily?" Pete asked softly.

"Yeah...We um...things went well last night. We were able to work through a lot of things," Bradley said lightly. "We were going to be meeting up again tonight," he whispered.

Pete watched him and frowned slightly. "Don't hurt her again, Bradley. Please. That is all I ask."

"I won't."

[worldofheroes]

Unexpected

pete “maverick” mitchell x fem!reader

summary: you take a shower in Maverick’s office bathroom and something unexpected (but welcomed) happens.

warnings: 18+, language, unprotected sex

wc: 968

a/n: based on this request! oh my this is… something else 😅🥵😍

“Okay, y/c/s, that’s enough. It’s late. Head back to the tarmac,” Maverick says over comms.

“One more run?” you ask.

“No, Lieutenant. Land your plane, that’s an order.”

“Yes sir,” you mutter, turning your plane around.

After you land, you go through your post-flight checklist.

“Y/c/s,” Maverick calls out.

You stop and slightly turn your head.

“You’re doing great, you know that, right?” Maverick asks.

“I can do better.”

“Stop being so hard on yourself, y/n,” Maverick whispers.

“No promises,” you mutter.

Silence falls between the two of you.

“Listen, I just want to shower and head home,” you say. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“The showers are on the other side of base,” Maverick states.

“Yeah, I know?” You furrow your brow.

“My office is right over here. Has its own bathroom. I’d rather you use that one than head across base at this hour.”

“Mav, it’s a military base, I’ll be fine.”

“Please,” Maverick says.

You pause, weighing your options. If you just go with him to his office, you’ll get home faster.

“Fine,” you sigh. “Lead the way.”

Maverick nods and heads towards his office. You follow a few yards behind him.

“The bathroom’s through there,” Maverick says awkwardly, motioning towards the door.

“Thanks,” you mumble.

You push the door closed, but it doesn’t close all the way, which you don’t notice.

You start to get ready for your shower, taking your hair down, brushing it, turning the shower on, and you start to undress.

After you pull your shirt off, you look in the mirror and make eye contact with Maverick, who’s watching you.

He looks away. You open the door a couple inches more.

His eyes meet yours again in the mirror. You pull your sports bra off, leaving you now topless in front of your instructor.

Maverick steps inside the bathroom, closing the door completely behind him. He moves closer to you.

Your breath hitches in your chest. Maverick pushes your hair back out of your face.

You start to pull his shirt off, and he helps you, tossing it on the floor.

His hands slide down the sides of your body, and start to undo your pants. Your hands also make their way down his body, doing the same.

The two of you pause there, studying each other.

You step out of your underwear, and Maverick follows your lead.

A whimper escapes you. Maverick closes the space between you, and his lips land on yours. A hand caresses your face.

“Maverick,” you whisper.

“You’re beautiful,” he tells you, kissing you again.

“I need to shower,” you tell him softly.

He nods, moving his hand away from you.

You step in the shower, and shortly after, Maverick joins you.

Without realizing, you move closer to Maverick and wrap your arms around him, letting the water fall on the two of you.

You think you hear Maverick moan.

He kisses you again, pressing himself against you, and you can feel his hardening cock.

“Mav,” you whisper.

“You can’t blame me,” he says with a small smirk.

You smile slightly at the light-hearted comment. Your hand slides down his torso, and you wrap your fingers around his cock.

There’s no guessing that a moan comes from Maverick this time.

“Shit,” he mumbles.

“Do you want..?” You trail off of your sentence.

Maverick nods. “Can I?”

You nod.

Maverick gently pushes you against the tile of the shower. You gasp at the sudden coldness against your bare back.

He grabs one of your legs and lifts it up, holding on. Maverick presses the head of his cock against your center.

“Oh,” you moan. “Please,” you beg.

Maverick pushes into you.

You both moan in pleasure as he works you open.

“Fuck, Pete,” you say, throwing your head back.

“Fuck, that’s hot,” he says, kissing your neck.

“You like it when I call you Pete?” you ask in a slightly teasing tone.

“Fuck yes,” he groans, burying his face into your neck.

“Then fuck me harder, Pete,” you say.

“Shit, yes ma’am,” Maverick practically growls as he thrusts harder into you.

You try to keep your moans quiet, but Maverick’s cock is hitting you just right.

“That’s it,” he encourages you.

“Oh, Mav,” you cry. “I’m gonna.. I’m gonna come.”

“Shit,” he mutters. “Where can I?”

“Fuck,” you moan. “I want your cum filling me.”

“You sure?”

“Yes, Pete, I want you to fill me.”

“Shit,” he mutters again.

His pace quickens even further, and you feel yourself reaching that edge.

A few more thrusts and you come undone, moaning in pleasure as Maverick reaches his orgasm moments later, cursing and saying your name.

When you both come down from your highs, Maverick kisses you, hard. He releases your leg from his grasp and you push your body against his.

“What are we going to do now?” you whisper.

“Haven’t thought about it yet,” Maverick replies, sucking on your neck.

“Mav,” you lightly scold him. “I don’t want any marks.”

“Mm,” he hums against you, now kissing your collarbone.

“Mav, seriously,” you tell him, pushing him away.

Maverick sighs. “I don’t know, y/n,” he mutters, not making eye contact.

The two of you stand in the shower in silence, the only noise being the running water.

“I still need to shower,” you mumble, looking away from your instructor.

“I’ll leave you be and try to think of something,” he says.

You nod.

Maverick leans in and pauses for just a moment before he kisses you again, this time softer and more delicate.

“I don’t think we made a mistake,” Maverick says as he steps out of the shower.

“I don’t know, Mav.”

“We’ll figure it out.”

You close your eyes, letting the water run down your body as you try to think of what to do next.

[shoot-the-oneshot]

Perfect rings

Based on this idea with the ring from Purple Hearts.

The one where Hangman makes sure everyone knows you’re his with the perfect rings.

Roosters version Young Maverick versio

There were three things Jake Seresin was sure of

1. He was the best damn aviator in the navy

2. He was hot shit

3. You were his

No ifs and or buts about it, if you were at home he’d leave out one of his shirts from his top gun graduation for you to wear. He’d moan and dramatically fall back on the couch pulling you with him everytime he saw his last name sitting proudly against your chest.

It was a busy Saturday night at the hard deck Jake kept you tucked closely to his side rubbing his thumb against your hip. everyone knew not to approach Hangman’s girl at last they face his wrath. Nothing set him off like a man touching what was his.

“I’m going to go get another drink.” You spoke leaning up pressing a quick kiss to his jaw. Immediately taking his attention away from the game off pool. “I’ll get it darlin, stay here.” Phoenix rolled her eyes at his antics, with a fond smile loving seeing the cocky pilot turn into a softy for you. Pushing yourself out of his grip before he could leave. “I think I’ll survive for a few minutes.” Laughing at his pout you made your way to the bar, Jake watching from the corner of his eye, flipping off the laughing pilots behind him.

You hadn’t been at the bar waiting for more than two minutes before someone took the barstool next to you, shooting you a what was probably an attempt at a charming smile. “Hello beautiful, the names Rick.” You politely smiled shaping his outstretched hand mentally hurrying Penny. You know the saying ‘going from zero to a hundred’ well Your pilot counterpart idles at 70, and you knew if he saw the young sailor he’d flip.

Hangman who was indeed watching the overly confident sailor put a hand on your back moved to take a step in your direction. Getting pulled back by Rooster.

“She’s got it man look.” Nodding his head back In your direction, hangman’s eyes followed. He saw you shake your head and point over your shoulder to where you left Jake, who was glaring daggers at the man. You couldnt help but shake your head fondly as you made your way back over to your bristled boyfriend.

“Easy soldier, at ease.” You laughed wrapping your arms around his neck directing his attention back to you. His green eyes lit up at your laugh. “You make a friend?” The caveman in him spoke before he could stop it. You ran your fringes through the short hair ay the nape of his neck. “No, I told him i had a very scary boyfriend that could drop a missel on his house from his fighter jet.”

“Good girl” Jake calmed, chuckling as he took one hand from your hip and pulled off his dogtags and draped them around your neck, something he did everytime he felt someone got to close. “Rooster watch my girl, I’ll be back.” Whispering that last part against the your forehead giving it a peck before he walked off. Rooster swooped in before you could see where he was heading.

“Come on, its your turn.” You took the outstretched pool cue and quickly got distracted with Bob and Phoenix, while Rooster shook his head watching Hangman and a few other pilots throwing out the sailor. “Softy.”

Not to long after you felt arms wrap around your waist pulling you back into a warm chest. “Ready to get out of here?”

“Honey I’m home!” Jakes southern accent echoed throughout the house his smile widening finding you in the kitchen. “Hey, honey.” You mocked his earlier words. Pulling him down to meet your lips by the chain around his neck. He hummed against your lips pulling you closer into him.

“Just put dinner in the oven go take a shower and we can watch a movie while we wait.” You breathed noses rubbing against each others. As he nodded, pulling your left hand to his mouth pressing one last kiss your ring, “Yes ma’am, love ya.” He winked before following orders.

And that’s why when he knew he wanted to marry you he went and got the biggest diamond they had in the store, makes a statement on your pretty little hand that your taken care of, but even then he felt it wasn’t enough didn’t scream His like he wanted. Then it hit him, stumbling out of the shower, barley having time to pull on grey sweats in his haste to the garage, rushing right past you.

Taking the necessary tools from his took set he stripped the still dripping chain off his neck. If anything would scream you belonged to him it was this. Quickly connecting the chain back together making a small loop he wondered back into the living room head held high.

“Uh hi?” You laughed despite your confusion seeing a damp shirtless Jake standing over you, a cocky smile on his face as he dropped down on one knee, grabbing your hand. “Still wanna be my forever girl?” He asked.

You wordlessly nodded not knowing where he was going with this until he pushed the chain ring on you finger settling it righ next to the diamond. Jumping up to join you on the couch, man handling you to lay in front of him as he pulled you close mindlessly playing with your ring finger loving his new addition.

“You are the most possessive man I’ve ever met.” You laughed feeling his chest rumble behind you, “And you’re stuck with me forever sweetness.”

Hey hope you guys liked it hangman was one of my favorites from the movie I’d you liked it check our Roosters version young Mavericks version is coming soon

Top gun Masterlist REQUEST ARE OPEN

[crazyk-imagine]

I Wish... You Nothing but the Best

Pairing: Pete “Maverick” Mitchell x Civilian!reader (past), Pete “Maverick” MItchell x Penny Benjamin (present), Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw x Jake “Hangman” Seresin (implied)

Characters: Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, Civilian!reader, Carole Bradshaw, Nick “Goose” Bradshaw, Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw, Penny Benjamin, Robert “Bob” Floyd (briefly mentioned), Charlotte “Charlie” Blackwood (briefly mentioned) Warnings: Angst, mentions of Goose’s death :(, mentions of cheating, mature ending of a relationship that didn’t end properly?, adorable baby Bradley aka reader’s godson and Bob being her nephew, Carole is a sweet and caring friend, the Bradshaw’s love the reader and don’t want to be without her, Jake is a jackass but only because he loves Bradley, Pete apologizing for his behavior Word Count: 3,353

*Idk where this was going but here, we are

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You thought it was a little weird when Pete didn’t great you with as much enthusiasm as he usually did, not even a peck on the lips; he opted for your lips instead. This adds to the festering thought you don’t want to believe and are afraid to ask him. 

But the signs are there. 

The calls haven’t been the same for a long time and the last few times you’ve heard a woman’s voice in the background, and she aren’t as subtle as she thinks she is. 

Plus, there’s no way it’s Nick because you always know when he’s being a goof just like you know when Pete isn’t being his normal self. 

Carole can tell those smiles of yours aren’t real just like how he’s not all there for you. But dammit if she doesn’t try to get you to enjoy yourself. 

You stick closer to the happy couple, stealing Bradley away from him and not just because your favorite and only godson wants huggies. 

Nick ventures towards the piano with baby Bradshaw in his arms. 

You watch the wide smile on your friends face as Carole watches her family be… happy. You gaze wanders over towards the other end of the place, the Bradshaw boys’ voices slowly being tuned out as you stare. Your shoulders sag, your worst fears have officially come true. 

No thoughts come to the surface of your mind. The irrational part of you hopes it’s just your mind is playing tricks on you but as you watch them, the rational part becomes much clearer. 

You think back to the warnings everyone gave you before you officially accepted Pete’s attempts at asking you out. It’s a never-ending loop as they play on repeat. 

“He can’t be tied down.” 

“He’s not the kind who does relationships.” 

Nick sets Bradley watching as his son runs back to his mother, wanting to make sure the boy doesn’t fall before he loses himself in the song. 

A heavy sigh slips past your lips, you lean over to Carole. “Hey, Care?” 

She turns, giving you her attention as the boy turns wanting to be as much a part of the conversation as he could for someone of his age. “I think I’m gonna go.” 

Her smile falls. “Oh, no. Why?” 

You pause, owlishly blinking while you try to come up with an answer. “I just- I remembered I had a meeting I was supposed to be a part of.” 

She nods and repeats what you said in her head. “But you said-” 

“People say lots of things.” You look over at Pete and the blonde woman laughing and flirting like no one's watching. “And sometimes they don’t mean it.” 

She glances over at Pete, her confused expression changing to one of worry. “Please don’t go.” She would never be able to forgive herself if she just you leave, even if Pete’s done with you; she’s not. She doesn’t want you to leave and go back to your lonely apartment while she’s still here. 

You shake your head, a sad chuckle slipping past your lips. “I’m not welcome here anymore.” 

“Yes, you are,” Carole argues. How can you say such a thing? 

You place a hand over hers. “I’ve lost the one thing that helped me…” a heavy sigh slips past your lips. “He was one of the few people who have helped me become the best me I could and now,” you sniff at the burning feeling you get in your nostrils, and you shake your head, finding it to be uncomfortable for a few seconds. “I can’t stay here anymore.” Tears begin pooling in your waterline. 

“We could go out. You know Bradley and I absolutely adore you. We could make it a fun day out with the only two memorable women in his life.” 

You admire her spirit as she fights to keep you here and happy. A sad chuckle slips past your sorrowful smile. 

Carole purses her lips, she doesn’t want to accept that you’re going to leave, making this seem like a goodbye when it’s only going to be a temporary farewell, she’ll make sure of it but knows she can’t keep you here. She nods, accepting defeat, “okay.” She’s only saying this before she can change her mind and before the boys notice the shift of emotions in the air. The tears in her eyes don’t help either of you accept this. 

“I’m gonna miss you,” says you, wanting to end this fast. 

“We don’t have to stop talking.” 

“I’m doing this to prevent any awkwardness for you and Nick.” 

She shakes her head, griping your hand. “We don’t care. We love you. You know we do, you’re like a sister to us. You’re Bradley’s godmother for goodness’ sake.” 

“I love you guys too but sometimes… love hurts us.” 

“And that’s when friendships come in to help pick up the prices.” 

“I don’t think that’s going to help us right now, honey.” 

“Let me at least call a sitter and I’ll drive-” 

“No,” you shake your head. 

“You enjoy your time with Nick. You three need some family time, not trying to keep me from moping around because of my relationship ending. That doesn’t make for a fun family day.” 

She grips your hand, rubbing her thumb against the back of your hand to comfort you in a subtle manner the boys won’t catch onto. “Call me when you get back, okay?” 

You nod, squeezing her hand. “Always.” 

-

Pete doesn’t glance over at you three when he walks over towards his pal. 

-

You grab your bag and start scooting out of the booth. 

Bradley hops off his mom’s lap, practically chasing after you. 

You catch him before he could run into your legs. 

He lifts his arms, a clear sign he wants to be picked up. 

Your lips twitch, either way you’d feel bad if you didn’t lift him up and just as bad if you walked by him without saying anything. You give in, unable to resist his squishy cheeks and pouty expression. “Hey, bud.” 

“You leaving?” 

“I am but you, mama Carole, and Nick the Goose can visit anytime you guys want. As long as I get a call first so I can clean up and make sure I’ve got room for my favorite little guy.” You lightly poke his ribs earning giggles in return. 

-

Pete glances over at you, watching as you whisper into the little boy’s ear making him giggle. He furrows his brows, wondering where you’re going but his heart won’t let him. If he truly wanted to know where you were going, he would follow you, but he knows better, knows he shouldn’t after what he's done. 

He has a feeling the sad smile tugging at the corners of your lips is because of him, he didn’t try and hide the flirtation he and Charlie have going on now. He should have told you what happened, broken up with you before he could ruin one of the best relationships, he’s had in a long time, but he didn’t and now he can’t take that back. 

What’s done is done. 

-

You try to set Bradley down but it’s as if he knows something’s wrong, he won’t go down. 

Nick begins another rendition of “Great Balls of Fire”, the song manages to lift anyone’s mood (and has become Bradley’s nighttime song when he can’t sleep). 

Pete sucks it up and walks over towards you before Carole could get out of her seat. “I got him.” 

You let out a deep breath, “thanks… Mav.” 

He gulps, no more pet names. He oddly feels sad, not at all expecting this emotion to be the thing he feels the most right now. He hoped he would truly realize this was the end after you had gone back to your hotel and he had access to a bar, even though that’s the place where he ended your relationship with his actions and thoughts. 

“You leaving already?” 

You nod, “I am.” 

Neither of you say anything, he doesn’t know what to say and you don’t want to say it. 

“I don’t think I’ll be coming around as much.” 

He stays still. “What? No, come on. You- you- you’re family. You can’t just not visit.” 

“We haven’t even ended the relationship officially and it’s awkward. Besides, it’s not forever you know. We- uh- we need some time to- uh- grieve I guess.” 

He gives you a look. “That sounds like an excuse.” 

“I wish it was, believe me.” 

“Do you have to leave now?” 

“Well, I’m certainly not gonna stay here while you flirt and try to-” you glance down at a distracted Bradley. “Sleep with her again.” 

His silence answers the question you didn’t want to ask. “Yeah, that right there, is all I needed to know and that’s why I’m leaving. Our relationship was going downhill, and I think we knew it, but we were so comfortable with one another that we couldn’t.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

A smile tugs at the corners of your lips. “Good. It's the least I could get from you.” 

“Do you need a ride?” 

“No,” you shake your head. “I’ll call me a cab. I’m a big girl, I can do this.” 

“I don’t want our friendship to end over my-” 

You stop him, “we’re gonna take some time to heal and see if we can still be friends.” 

“What if we can’t?” 

That’s the one question you didn’t want him to ask. “Then I… wish you nothing but the best, Pete. You're always feeling the need for speed, right?” 

A chuckle escapes him, always loving it when you would use his phrase against him. “Yeah, always. You know me.” 

Your tongue clicks, “yes, I do.” 

“I’m really sorry.” 

“I know you are.” You can tell by the way he lowers his eyes and by how tired he looks, its only him hiding his sadness because even though it was his doing that brought the relationship to an end, he does care about you. You can’t focus on that for long, you got to get out of here before he pulls you back in. 

You make the semi-irrational decision pull him and Bradley in for a hug, leaning into whisper to the taller man. “You are good, Maverick. Remember that.” 

He furrows his brows. “Good at what?” 

“Take that however you want, that’s my parting gift for you.” You pull away from him and head over towards your favorite mustached, Hawaiian shirt wearing man, throwing your arm around his shoulders, pulling him for a side hug. “I’ll see you soon, okay?” 

He pouts, “you leaving me already?” 

“Afraid so back seater.” 

“Oka- hey!” 

“I bid you farewell, Nick the Goose.” A quiet chuckle slips past his lips. 

“He shouldn’t have let you go,” he whispers. He turns his head towards you, his sunglasses low enough for you to see the serious look in his eyes. “Keep in touch.” 

A tearful smile dances across your lips, you’re not quite sure what to say. “Thanks. I’ll try to. Play me out?” 

“For you, doll? Always.” 

You walk towards the door, listening to the familiar tune. “GOODNESS, GRACIOUS, GREAT BALLS OF FIRE!” You scream as you walk out the door. 

-

Your back hits the wall, you want to look back, see them all one last time but your heart has been through enough for one evening. You decide walking away is easier, not wanting to add onto it, that doesn’t stop the tears from falling though. 

-

Nick and Carole didn’t say anything to Pete’s faces while the five hangout, although there was a significant change with their dynamic after that. 

Then Nick died and Pete broke up with Charlotte. 

Yet, there was only one person he could go to, but he never quite got there… or he did, but never knocked on the door. 

Never asked to come in. 

Never spoke to you that night even as he sat on the steps leading up to your apartment building. 

-

And you did periodically check on him, even went as far as flying out to wherever he was stationed and asking his former enemy turned wingman, Iceman, how he was doing… that was a good conversation. 

With Pete off, living his life, you decided it was time to stay with Carole and Bradley for a while. You helped take care of the two with little to almost no contact with him since it was always awkward and hard for him to talk about your mutual loss whenever you tried to bring it up, wanting him to stop his guilt trip. 

Eventually you two lost contact with one another, only finding out how the other is through the grapevine. 

Even when Bradley was upset with him when Pete pulled your godson’s papers, he didn’t answer your call and deleted your voicemail without listening to it. 

Sometime after that, your little family becomes smaller due to the loss of Carole. 

Pete didn’t stop by the funeral; he did send flowers along with a note saying how sorry he is that he couldn’t make it and he hopes the two of you are okay. 

And, of course, the first time you see him is well after thirty years.

You saw him when you first walked into the bar and didn’t make your way over to him; he’s the one who stopped calling, why should you be the first to try and rekindle your friendship with him. 

-

He glances around, happy to see every one of his students safe and sound, living life and enjoying themselves. His eyes land on you, eyebrows up to his forehead. 

You can feel eyes on you, your gut telling you it’s him; you still search for the burning gaze and find the one and only man who always felt the need for speed. 

You offer a small wave. 

-

Penny looks back and forth between the two of you, putting the pieces together. “Is that her?” 

“Yeah.” 

“You gonna go talk to her?” 

“And say what?” 

“Ask her simple questions, like what she’s doing now? How’s she been? Things that make it seem like you want to talk to another human being and not a jet.” 

He responds with a sarcastic laugh. “Yeah, yeah. I’m going.” 

“See you tonight?” 

“Tonight,” he confirms. 

-

A wave of nostalgia runs through you while you watch your grown godson sing his father’s song. It still doesn’t surprise you that he never forgot it, it was practically ingrained in his brain before he could even talk. You can sense him beside you, still as awkward as ever. “How you been, Mav?” 

“You stole my line.” 

“Hmm, I don’t think so because you ran out of lines years ago and I’m sure you were lucky enough that Penny took pity and decided you were worthy enough to date again.” 

“How’d you know?” 

“My favorite and only godson is a bit of a gossip.” 

He nods. “Good to know.” 

You turn away from the scene and give him your attention. “How you been? You feeling better now that the missions over?” 

He nods. 

“I’m glad to see you’re okay.” 

“I think you’re just saying that to one up me.” 

You scoff through your nose. “I’ve always been able to one up you and you know it besides, I never stop caring about my friends.” 

“We’re still friends?” 

You roll your eyes, “We never stopped, Mav. We started out as friends and just because our relationship didn’t work out doesn’t mean that I don’t care about you because I do. Hell, I kept tabs on you just to make sure you don’t make any stupid mistakes like how you almost did when Nick died.” 

You can tell that really hit him. “I’m sorry for sounding harsh but I want you to know that just because we’re not in love anymore doesn’t mean that I don’t care about you. I’m always gonna look after you and Bradley. It’s my job after all.” 

He furrows his brows. “Your job?” 

“Yeah, I take care of you two and you two take care of my tab.” 

He rolls his eyes, “ha ha.” 

“Thank you. I know I’m hilarious.” 

“You haven’t changed.” 

“Nope and you’d know that if you ever returned one of my many calls and texts.” 

“Getting in trouble tends to ruin talking hour.” 

“Oh, now who’s joking.” 

You two chuckle before you bump his elbow with yours. “You picked a good one. I’m happy to know you’re doing good.” 

“I’ll be there for you, you know.” 

You nod. Your godson and a couple of his buddies from his squad walk over towards the two of you. 

The pretty, cocky blond changes the song on the juke box. 

You smile when Bradley leans against you, throwing his arm around your shoulder giving you a side hug. 

The blond turns around and raises a brow at the two of you. “Bradshaw, you never told me you were dating a cougar.” 

Bradley’s groans can be heard all across the bar. “For the last time. She’s NOT-” 

The guy walks away, clearly proud of the rise he got out of him. 

“Brad. Brad,” you call out to him. “Breath. He’s just being a punk who will get what’s coming to him.” 

“But he’s saying things about you,” he whines. 

A tight lip smile stretches the corners of your lips wide. “I know,” you nod. “And if he doesn’t, he’ll get what’s coming to him.” 

He huffs. 

“Do not use that attitude with me Bradley. Just because you’re like your father and don’t know how to act around the person you love, doesn’t mean you need to turn into a brat.” 

His eyes widen and his jaw drops. “Wha- I don’t- I don’t-” 

You lean into whisper, “Nick was the same way before he asked Carole out on a date. Learn from him and don’t act like a jackass.” 

“But I don’t-” 

“You do and you know it. He’s just as interested as you. There’s no other reason he would be acting like such a jackass. He wants your attention, that’s why he keeps looking over at you and making inappropriate remarks.” 

He avoids your gaze as he asks, “you think?” 

“What do you think your dad would say?” 

“Goodness, gracious, great balls of fire?” 

“Only because you wouldn’t listen, and he would have to take matters into his own hands. Do I need to embarrass you so you can get his attention?” 

“I need another drink.” He squeezes your shoulder before heading towards the bar. 

You shake your head. 

“What happened to the sweet person I knew?” Pete asks. 

“I met you and Goose.” 

He scoffs, “we weren’t that bad.” 

“Are you kidding me? I was lucky to keep my eyebrows after you dumbasses tried smoking cigarettes.” 

“We were seventeen,” he argues. 

“And I’m still traumatized from the thought of losing my eyebrows.” 

“It would have been one.” 

“Is that what you’re sticking with? You’re lucky I didn’t know you then.” 

“But it’s a good story to tell at parties.”

“That’s exactly how I found out it was you two morons.” 

“We were kids.” 

“And, I would have made millions because I would have sued.” 

The laughter dies down, the sounds of the bar chatter filling the silence. 

“I’m sorry.” 

“For what?” 

He shrugs. “Everything. You deserved better.” 

“I know.” You knock his shoulder with yours. “But thank you for the second apology… you happy with her?” 

He lowers his gaze, the summer heat finally getting to him. “I am.” 

A slow, nostalgic smile graces your lips. “Good. I hoped you had nothing but the best life.” 

“How’s Bob?” 

You didn’t realize he knew the man with the wired glasses was your nephew. “He’s good. How’d you know?” 

“He’s got your sarcasm.” 

You let out a dry laugh, “ha ha. They’d be proud, you know.” 

“Maybe. Only after Carole would have to drag Nick off the floor and stop him from embarrassing Bradley.” 

“Unless she’d join in.” 

“She wouldn’t.” 

You shrug, “maybe not but you never know.”

[callsign-phoenix]

I wrote this as a part of my 12 days of ficmas, I hope you like it!

It is a Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell x gn!reader imagine.

The prompt is Snow.

Warnings: cursing

Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell had always been a player, and you didn’t take him seriously because of it.

He was so gorgeous and fun and entirely daring, but sadly too freedom-loving for your taste.

You were crushing on Pete and you were upset about it, because Pete didn’t do relationships.

It made you so sad to see Pete go from one night stand to one night stand without even beating an eye, while you were pining after him in secret.

After a while of being friends Pete slowly started to behave peculiarly, his hands lingering on your body more and more often and as well as his gaze, and once in a while throwing a flirty comment in your direction.

It wasn’t exactly what you expected from your friendship, so you simply ignored the approaches you deemed a joke.

He was flirty with almost every person he met so as much as you wanted him to be honest about his flirtations you didn’t think he was, as much as it pained you.

Over time your friendship blossomed and you saw each other more and more often.

He seemed to be spending less time on nights out with different people.

You didn’t want to get your hopes up so you ignored your feelings, even when he asked you to go to a Navy ball with him.

You agreed happily but had to talk yourself into actually going, believing that he couldn’t feel the way about you that you were feeling about him.

The ball was gorgeous, the environment beautiful and Pete looked so handsome in his suit.

Your breath caught the moment he asked you to dance and you followed him onto the dance floor, your heart beating quicker than ever before.

His hands on your body made heat rise in your cheeks and you were too mesmerized by him to realize he was leaning, not until his lips were not even an inch away from your face.

The second realization struck you you pulled away as if you had been burnt, a shocked expression settling on your features before you turned around and hurriedly left the venue.

You heard Pete call after you but you continued to run until the cold winter air engulfed you, settling a comforting numbness inside you.

You were too emotional to realize Pete was coming up behind you, feeling his grip on your shoulder and pulling away, bringing a safe distance between you.

You were angry and hurt and just entirely dumbfounded that he was willing to risk your friendship for a short fling, and you knew your face said as much.

Nevertheless you felt the need to say so as well.

“Please Pete, just leave me the fuck alone! I’m not the type to just have a one night stand and be friends after, and if you respected me as a person and a friend you’d know that!” You exclaimed, shivering from the cold.

Pete’s grip on the coat he’d retrieved for you from the lobby tightened, and he took a few steps towards you.

You didn’t move away.

“I do respect you. I just don’t want to be just friends,” he replied softly.

You were entirely confused and angry, thinking that he hadn’t listened to a word you had said.

“I want to be with you, fully. I know I haven’t been the most reliable friend and most trustworthy person, but I want to be your partner and show you that I can change that. I just… I love you, which is really new for me,” he exclaimed, effectively shocking you to the core.

You were entirely speechless and in the silence that followed snow started to slowly fall from the sky.

It was like a fairytale, a love confession followed by something that was too romantic to seem real, and the first snow of the year held such a power.

You were so speechless and so utterly happy about it that you really needed a second, your eyes going up to the sky to marvel.

Pete’s did the same, so he didn’t notice when you stepped closer, until you were standing right in front of him.

When he looked back at you his eyes immediately got caught on your lips, and a small smile appeared on them.

He started smiling as well, and his eyelids fluttered in anticipation.

You were as breathless as him when he finally leaned in and connected your lips.

It was your Christmas miracle, having tamed Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell enough to want to be in a proper, monogamous relationship.

tagging: @starkleila @mayhem24-7forever @green-socks @letsfvckingdance @yespolkadotkitty @whateverbagman @neptunes-curse @sweetheartlizzie07 @top-gun-rooster @iloveprettyboysblog @ateliefloresdaprimavera @imjess-themess @littlebadariell @angstyjellybean @marchingicenotes7 @midget713 @supernaturaldawning @gspenc @adorephina @gigisimsonmars @bespinnn @malindacath @aerangi @kassieesworld @kwanimations @18crazybutcutealsopsycho @mavericksicybabe @kendra-rose @desert-fern @mavrellover91 @allivingstone01 @rhettabbotts @withakindheartx @trikigirl271 @cherrycola27 @bonitanightmxres @ratcatcher2world @glowingtree @wingmanvenus

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[daughterofthereaper02]

IceMav x Reader

Reader is a pilot at Top Gun, the only female pilot and is putting up with a lot of bullying and teasing to the point where she wants to quit, but Ice and Mav stand by her and help her through the hard times.

A/n: I really do love this!!! I'm definitely going to need some pilot comfort today! NOTE: I'm sure most of these guys definitely weren't assholes like this and I love fics where they aren't but for the purpose of this fic, they have to be!!

Warnings: Misogyny, cursing

You sat down to do your work, grinding your teeth as Wolfman chuckled. "Still trying to play with the big boys, Sparks?" He asked. You looked up at him and gave him a mocking smile, "I don't have to try. At least I made it as a pilot, Wolfman. Someone got stuck as a RIO, remember how much you wanted to be a pilot? Fell a little short huh?" You spit. He looked ready to kill you in that moment when Maverick and Iceman walked in. He walked away while glaring at you and you just went back to your work.

Tom and Pete sat next to you while Goose and Slider sat behind you three. "What was that about?" Tom asked. "Me "playing with the big boys" again. Fucking misogynistic males" you hissed under your breath. Pete placed a hand on your thigh to remind you where you were, if you flipped you could get kicked out of the program. You took a deep breath and squeezed his hand, "Sorry. I'm just going to go for a run. I finished my work" you told them. They nodded, that was the hint to join you in fifteen minutes to talk. It was hard enough to be a female in Top Gun in 1986, but even harder when your best friends are trying to hide a relationship with each other and you.

Times were changing but they were going too slow for your liking. All anyone at Top Gun knew was Tom and Pete were protective of you because you were their close/best friend with their RIOs, people thought they couldn't stand each other but it was more just competitiveness they had. Three pilots in a relationship would cause that.

You walked past Hollywood, he stick out his foot and tripped you but you caught yourself. He smirked at you and you leaned close, acting like you were about to say something before making it look like you would be sick, "God you stink, Hollywood! Maybe if you got laid for once, some feminine touch would rub off on you and you wouldn't stink up the room on everyone!" You laughed and walked away. You ducked the paper ball thrown at you and listened to everyone laugh at Hollywood, agreeing he stunk. Your chest was tight as you went through another round of bullying that was always looked over, after all many still believed women couldn't make it in the service.

You went back to your room, changed, and went for a run. You grabbed your walkman and favorite cassette tape before going out. You ran you favorite area, losing track of time as two people joined you, dressed appropriately for once. You took off the headphones and went to a secluded area. "I'm going to quit" you whispered, looking down at your hands. "What?" Pete asked you in shock. "I-" you started, feeling the tears you've been keeping down make there way up, "I'm so sick of being picked on, tripped, sabotaged, and watching my back" you said, you voice wavering with unshed tears. "I can't do it anymore, I feel like I am drowning!" You said, clasping your hands in your lap as you forced yourself to not cry.

"You can't quit sweetheart, you're so close. Think of all the woman you're patching the path for" Tom said, pulling you into a hug. "We're going to be here for you the whole time but please don't quit" Pete said. You nodded, knowing you had them and you could push through.

Over the next two weeks, Tom and Pete stood with you and you pushed harder then ever as the bullying increased and you began to pass them in numbers. You, Tom, and Pete were all tied and little did you know when Hollywood and Wolfman took the bullying too far one day, Iceman and Maverick had them pinned in the locker room while Goose and Slider stood watch. "Back off of Sparky. You'll regret it one day if you don't" Tom promised.

Although you didn't know it, your boyfriends were always going to protect you even when you could protect yourself.

Taglist:

@peaches-and-sunshine

@natasharomanoffisbaebby

@sweetheartlizzie07

@lollypop90907

@the-hottest-lieutenants

@jamiedontbeacracko

@fandomstanner24

@casperlikej

@18crazybutcutealsopsycho

@blackcat2907

[averagewriter-inthedark]

maybe you can write a little something about the dagger squad asking rockstar!reader what it was like being friends with Elvis Presley and meeting other legends within the music industry and what type of advice they gave her to help with her career.

You want more rockstar!reader, I’ll give you more rockstar!reader 🫡

Daughter Of Rock ‘N’ Roll | Pete Mitchell/TGM Imagine

I love writing for this pairing 🥹🫶🏼 thank you for your request and so sorry it’s taken me awhile to get this done!

[ofstoriesandstardust]

for the love of a daughter (pete “maverick” mitchell)

a/n: ummmm... so yeah i pulled the trigger on a new hangman mini-series and then wrote this instead. mhmm. yeah i’m disappointed in me too. 

summary: Maverick overhears the conversation between Hangman and Rebel and realizes his daughter needs his support more than ever

part of the same mistakes-verse 

main masterlist | top gun: maverick masterlist

warnings: swearing, i plagiarized myself, self-doubt and insecurities, idk if this is good but my brain would not let me write anything else

word count: 3,016

Maverick sighed, leaning up against the bar as Penny made her way over to him. A cursory glance around the bar revealed the team splintered off, some at the pool table, others at the dartboard, some engaged in their own conversations. No (Y/N). He rubbed his face as the events of the day ran through his brain again. Your words playing on an endless loop, memories of your childhood resurfacing as he marked each and every time he had failed you. He was tired of failing his kids. 

“Rough day?” Penny asked him and he looked up at her.

“Yeah, you could say that.” She slid him a beer as she opened her mouth to say something when Hangman sidled up next to him. 

“Hey Pops, Penny. Two beers please.” Penny nodded, uncapping the beers for him and then the blonde was on his way out the door. Maverick wondered if he was off to go woo his conquest of the night. Penny turned back to Maverick. 

“What happened Pete?” She asked and he sighed, setting his beer down on the bar. He shook his head, trying to find the words. 

“(Y/N) and I got into it today during training. She said some things and um, you know, just can’t help but feel like somewhere along the line I failed my kid.” She sighed, a warm, sympathetic look settling over her face. 

“You didn’t fail her. She turned out amazing. The best kid you could ever hope for.” He shrugged his shoulders, looking over at the squadron, who were laughing together. They were a family, more cohesive than ever, while it felt like his was falling apart. 

“Doesn’t matter how great she turned out if she feels like she isn't loved, Pen.” The woman frowned. 

“Pete, I don’t-” He was nodding before he ever even realized it.

“She does, and I- I don’t know how to fix it. I just want to fix this.” The woman sighed at him softly, leaning on the bar.

“Pete, you can’t fix everything. Sometimes, you just- you have to let your kids make mistakes and fuck up and learn. Sometimes we have to let them figure it out on their own.” He slumped back, feeling defeated. A glance over to the pool table revealed Bradley smiling, laughing amongst his teammates like nothing had happened. Things were a lot better between the two of them, and while it would take time, he was happy to have his kid back. He just didn’t want to lose the other too. Penny sighed again and he looked up. “She’s outside, if you want to go talk to her.” Pete tilted his head in thought as Penny moved to serve other customers. He stood up, squeezing by patrons of the crowded bar, making his way outside. He moved down the beach, catching Hangman’s figure sitting next to you. He held back for a moment, thinking he should maybe go back inside, not intrude on whatever was happening, but then your words traveled back to him. 

“...that kind of insecurity, the fear that one day everyone would leave, that shit started young. Because I was two and the only thing I had to do was be cute, and she just- left.” Pete felt himself stumbling back. You never talked about your mother, never wanted to hear anything about her. To think that her leaving might’ve affected you in some way he’d never even realized- “And- I don’t know. My Dad tried so hard to be a father for Rooster that sometimes it felt like I was getting left out accidentally. My Dad tried so hard to make up for Goose not being there that somehow I got left in the dust. I think Ice saw it, a little bit. At least saw how I was feeling because he tried to get Dad to see it, but Dad being Dad, just doubled down and started dragging me to all the things he was doing with Rooster despite the fact that at 8 and 11 and 13 and 16, I still didn’t give two shits about a goddamn plane. And don’t get me wrong, now I love being here and flying, but that wasn’t always the case, and selfishly, the reason I did all of this wasn’t entirely because I wanted to.” 

He felt himself go cold at the words. Because he had done that, hadn’t he? 

“Why go all the way to TOPGUN then? Genuinely asking, because the shit they put us through, this isn’t just something you do for fun.” 

“The legacy.” The legacy?

“What do you mean?” Hangman's confusion mirrored his own then. You sighed and if he could see your face, he could almost picture the look you had when you were trying to be careful about the words that left your mouth. 

“From what I know about Goose, he was an amazing RIO. Just the best pilot and the best man.” He was, kid. “And with Ice, I mean, yeah he was my godfather and the man who kept me steering straight when I wanted to crash the metaphorical plane, but he was also a highly decorated Admiral who's earned so much respect from every part of the military that- how does one even start to compete?” He almost interrupted then, to shake his kid and say, no, no Ice never wanted you to think you had to live up to him but Hangman’s laughter stopped him. 

“Yeah, I could see how carrying on Admiral Kazansky’s legacy could be a tad bit intimidating.”

“A tad?” You asked sarcastically and he laughed harder. You let out a chuckle of your own in response. “Yeah, and then there’s Dad. Depending on who you talk to, they either want to be him or beat the shit out of him. Every military official either expected me to fuck up like him or fly like him, and when you don’t pull off the feats Dad’s known for, people began to get disappointed with the product in front of them.” Maverick swore, that in that moment, he felt his heart break. Because yeah, it’d been an open secret, but he’d been getting careless with who he told about his kid because she was such a good pilot- 

“And it’s not Dad’s fault, but I just- somewhere along the line I started to wonder if maybe I wasn’t good enough to live up to the pressure of the Ice-Goose-Maverick legacy.” No. “I started to wonder if everyone was one day going to see what my Mom must’ve all those years ago and leave, recognize that I’m worth less than what I pretend to be. And so, when I got re-assigned from the Green Vipers –– who were goddamn awful, by the way, and did not help this issue at all –– for this mission, I thought- maybe here’s my chance. Here’s my chance to prove that I’m good enough, that I can fulfill the legacy. And then Dad picked Rooster and it felt like all my worst fears and been confirmed in that moment, that I would always fail.” You sighed and Maverick felt his heart break, hearing the tears in your voice. All this time you had thought...

“Yeah, of course now I know that Rooster was the best choice and if my Dad would’ve picked me, he may not have come home because God knows I wouldn’t have been brave enough to turn around and- I don’t know. Rooster proved to everyone a long time ago he could fulfill the legacy, but man I always- I always fall just short. Guess I just realized that I was always doomed to fail, that no matter what I did, I would never be... enough.”

“(Y/N), that’s not- that’s not true.” The words left his mouth before he could stop them, not being able to take anymore. He had to end this right now. You whipped around to see him from where he stood a few feet away.

“Dad-”

“Hangman, will you give us a minute?” He nodded and stood up.

“Hangman, don’t you dare leave me here.” You called and he looked at you sheepishly.

“Sorry, Rebel, but I think you and your Dad got some things to talk about.” And with that, Hangman’s back was turned and headed back up towards the Hard Deck. Once Hangman was out of earshot, Maverick found himself stumbling forward, tugging your arm to pull you up into a standing position. He put his hands on your shoulders, looking you firmly in the eye. 

“How much of that did you hear?” You whispered softly. 

“Enough.” He said firmly and you sighed, fiddling with a ring on your finger. “I need you to listen to me and it’s very important that you listen to me carefully. I clearly don’t say this enough. (Y/N), I love you and I am endlessly proud of you. You could tell me tomorrow you’re taking a dishonorable discharge from the Navy and I’d still be proud of you. I know that being my kid could not have been easy. Lord knows you weren’t dealt a fair set of cards.” He takes a moment to really look at you, to make sure the words were registering in your brain. Your Mom leaving. The dark days after Goose died. Carole getting sick. Bradley leaving. Bosnia. Afghanistan. “And yet, you’ve always taken everything I’ve thrown at you in stride. The constant deployments, the hospital trips, moving, I- I know it couldn't have been easy. And I’m sorry.” He was. He was sorry. He was sorry his kid had been put through that, that she’d gone her whole life thinking she wasn’t loved for the way she was, thinking that she could do anything with her life and he still wouldn’t be proud of her. 

“Dad, you don’t have to-”

“No, clearly, I do.” She buckled underneath his grip but he kept it tight. He needed to finish this. His kid needed to know.

“No, Dad, really-”

“I’m not done.” He said, effectively cutting you off. “You’re right that Goose was an amazing pilot. You’re also right about Ice. But neither of them, nor I, would want you to feel like you had to live up to any sort of legacy.”

“Dad-”

“I’m sorry if I ever made you feel that way. And I’m sorry that I didn’t select you for the mission. You’re an amazing pilot, but I needed to keep you safe. I needed you to be able to come home. And even if that choice cost me you, I would make it over and over again. Because you’re still here and that’s all I could ask for.” Because if he lost his kid- what would there be left for him?

“Dad-”

“I have one more thing to say and then I promise you can say whatever else you need to.” You raised your hands in surrender and he sighed, letting go of your shoulders and taking a step back. “You’re right that Bradley is my kid at this point. But never would he come before you. You have and always will be my number one priority. Your safety and happiness has always been at the top of my list, even if I don’t always show it. And I’m sorry I wasn’t a better father to you growing up. I mean, with Bradley it was easy, because he wanted to fly and be like me and Goose, and it was simple. I think it was difficult because I knew Bradley had Carole at the end of the day but with you, it was just me. It was all up to me. And that’s not an excuse for not being better as a parent. I’m sorry. I love you and I’m proud of you and I’ll say it every day from here on out if I have to for you to believe. If you don’t want to have a relationship with me moving forward that’s your choice kiddo, and I’ll respect it. But it won’t change how much I love you.” Because that’s the truth at the end of the day, wasn’t it? He’d done the best he could by himself. And maybe that hadn’t been enough, maybe he’d leaned on Ice and Carole too much, and maybe now he was facing the consequences of it. But he’d done what he could to keep you safe and that’s all he could ask for. Because you were here and you were happy and you were alive. 

“Dad, it wasn’t that you were a bad parent. Or that you failed me. It’s just- it’s got very little to do with you and everything to do with the pressure. I know Ice would strangle me if he heard half of what I said tonight, as would Rooster, but I just- it’s difficult to explain because it’s something that’s built over the years.”

“We’ve got time.” He sighed. They did have time. He’d take all the time to fix all the things that had gone wrong. 

“I know you’re proud of me. I know I’m a priority. I know why I didn’t get chosen for the mission and I know what kind of position that put you in. I know that Ice would kill me if he knew for one second that I felt like I had to live up to his legacy, but it’s just- this unspoken expectation from every officials part. They judge me before I ever get in the sky and when it’s not what they’re expecting, they aren’t afraid to tell me.” He sighed, because that was life in the Navy, wasn’t it? Legacy mattered and when people knew who your parents were, what they’d done, they assign it to you whether you liked it or not. Maverick knew that all too well. “And then people talk and suddenly, because you didn’t meet some pre-determined set of expectations, you’re a failure. And after a decade of Navy service, doing this same old song and dance with every squadron, it starts to wear on you. And I just- it boils over and I took it out on you and I’m sorry. I didn’t mean those awful things that I said, because I do love flying and I do love being here, having you as my instructor, I just- I’m sorry.” He sighed, pulling you into a hug as you began to cry.

“It’s okay, kiddo, it’s okay.” He whispered against the top of your head. As much as his heart was breaking on the inside, you needed him. Clearly, you needed him more than ever. 

“It’s not.”

“Yeah, it is.” He said, chuckling. “I’m your parent, you can take whatever you need out on me.” Because he’d always be there, take whatever words his kids threw at him, so long as they were both safe. “But don’t take it out on Coyote, don’t take it out on Rooster.” You sniffed, wiping away some of your tears as you pulled away. Coyote was your best friend, and he knew how fiercely Coyote cared for you. And while things with Rooster had been strained, it hadn’t always been like that. And it didn’t have to be like that moving forward. 

“Yeah, Coyote and I need to have a talk. But I’m really fucking mad at Rooster.”

“I’m gonna ask you a serious question: If he can get over what I did, why can you not get over what he did? I’m genuinely asking because I feel like maybe I’m missing something here.” Maverick had to admit that he was a little baffled by his daughter’s insistence to keep Bradley at arms length. There was a history and feelings had been hurt, but there was no denying how much the two of you used to care about each other. And really, if Bradley could forgive him, why couldn’t she forgive Bradley? 

You sighed. “Because he can never, never take full responsibility for icing me out. There’s always some reason or justification or cop-out-”

“Like that he’s in love with you?” The words were out his mouth before he could stop them. You paused, eyes narrowed.

“How do you know about that?”

“I heard about your little argument out here last night.” Oh yeah, he’d heard about it all right. All right before the explosive argument this morning. 

“Motherfucker.” You whispered.

“(Y/N), he is. It’s not a cop-out or an excuse. It’s the truth. I know you, and I know what’re you doing here. This goes beyond what happened when I pulled his papers.” You sighed, throwing your arms up in the air. Because there had to be something more than what had happened so long ago. 

“I can’t believe I’m being lectured right now.”

“I’m not lecturing you, I’m holding you accountable.” Because if that was one thing Maverick did right, it was hold her accountable when she messed up. “Bradley deserves an honest conversation from you.” You sighed again. “I think you have some things of your own that you need to figure out, some questions you need to answer.”

“Like what?”

“What are you running from?”

“The hell does that mean?” She asked hotly and Maverick had to hold his tongue, bite back from repeating the words Penny had said to him not all that long ago. 

“Pete, it’s so obvious how badly she craves love, and yet she’s never willing to accept it, to allow people to think that she might be worthy of their love.”

“It means that you need to figure out why you’re really angry with Rooster. At it’s core, why don’t you want to let him back in? Why does the idea that he might love you scare you so bad?” She opened her mouth, but no words came out and he shook his head. “Don’t tell me, tell him.”

You stood there for a little while longer and then moved back towards him, wrapping your arms around his chest. “Regardless, I’m still really sorry.” He returned your hug, holding you close. 

“I know kiddo, I know.”