#about mrsjaderogers

[whiskeyswriting]

Main Masterlist

Below are links to the writings and/or moodboards I’ve done based on fandom. The list will be updated accordingly as I post new fics or moodboards.

Fic Links

| Criminal Minds |

| DC Comics/DCEU |

| Divergent |

| Dragon’s 5K Celebration |

| F1 / Formula 1 |

| Marvel |

| Multifandom |

| RPF - Real Person Fiction |

| Stranger Things |

| The Chaos Squad | {Links are being updated}

| Top Gun / Top Gun: Maverick |

| 9-1-1 |

| Upcoming Fics / Current WIPs |

| Whiskey’s 1 Year Anniversary Celebration |

Non-Fic Links

| About Me |

| Characters I Write For |

| Random Post/Thoughts |

| Answers to Your Questions/Requests/Suggestions |

| Playlists for Fics |

| Recommendations |

| To Be Added to My Taglists |

[stargazing15]

Little rascal

A little fluffy dad Rooster drabble

A/N: yes I have a lot of wips, no this was not one of them. Hehe woops

Enjoy!

"Babe, seriously, is that the only thing coming out of his mouth?" Bradley sighed in frustration at the sight of his son. Oh, it was that type of day.

Yup, little Nick learned that you reacted when he said "mama" and has been saying it ever since, to everything and everyone. And when home you got an extended concert of "mama mama mama mamaaaaa". For you it was funny, but Bradley's pride got hurt Nick still wasn't saying any form of 'daddy'. And just like that mister grumpy chicken was back and sulking around the house.

"Earth to Bradley! The man is 14 months old, you know he even calls Mav 'mama'. And Penny, oh and even the lady from the bakery. So for the moment you're 'mama' too."

Bradley made himself smaller to be at eye level with Nick. "My sweet little boy, daddy's sorry, but you would make daddy's day a lot better if you would say 'daddy' for me, or 'dada', I could live with that too, please?"

"Honey, I seriously doubt your cute puppy eyes will work with Nick. You know his are cuter." Even Nick agreed with a "Hehe" and continued babbling in his own language.

"It was worth to try," Bradley smiled softly, "if you don't mind I'm going to the grocery store, can you help me with the list babe?"

"Of course, here you go. And can you bring my Bradley back?" This time it was you showing off your puppy eyes, in hope to make a little smile appear on your husband's face and it worked.

"Thank you for understanding, I'll try to find him." He said before giving you a small kiss.

"Well, actually thank you, now I don't have to go to the grocery store tomorrow, extra play time with Nick. Take your time, I know it helps to cool down after a heavy day."

"See you later babe and you, be nice to mommy, okay?" But Nick was still strolling around with his walker like a little madman guarding the house.

You had this feeling, so you took your phone and put the camera on. Mostly your gut feeling was right and Nick was about to do something funny. You had just touched the button to start filming when it happened.

"Dada? Dadaaaaa! Dada. Dadaaaaa?" Nick was saying while pointing to the door. Oh yes he did, and you were filming. The moment you stopped filming you made a little squeal, startling your son.

"I'm so proud of you little big man, and dada too, I will text dada immediately."

You: right after you left <attached video>

You heard Bradley's car arrive 30 minutes later and he was humming, Bradley was back, he left mister grumpy chicken behind.

"Hi babe, I'm back," he gave you a quick kiss on the forehead before putting the groceries on the counter top, "and hello to you too little man. You made dada's very good." And ruffled through Nick's hair, making him babble something at the action.

"Mama mama, waaaaaah." Nick babbled to his father.

"You little rascal, you're lucky I love you."

As soon as Bradley was around the corner to put the last things away Nick did it again. "Dada." Resulting in you and Bradley laughing at the little goofball. Bradley came crawling from around the corner going straight to Nick to start tickling him.

"This time I heard it!" Bradley laughed with Nick. You joined them on the ground to help let Nick win the little tickling contest.

Taglist: @mrsjaderogers @bradleybeachbabe @iamdannyday @rhirhikingston @mavrellover91

[ohtobeleah]

Chaos // Bradley Bradshaw

A Series Masterlist

Summary: Being called back to TopGun should have been the number one thing on your mind. But Bradley Bradshaw sure made it hard to keep your priorities in check. He made it hard to do just about anything. Including but not limited to saving his life.

Warnings: Ex lovers x Bradley Bradshaw trope. Rooster x Reader. Angst. Toxic relationship traits? (Angst warnings will be specified for different chapters)

Full Chaos-Verse Masterlist

Status: Complete

Sneak Peek

Lemoore Bob (visual)

Rooster (Visual)

Chapter One // Toxic Tango: 5.1k You thought for sure the biggest problem you were going to have to face was returning to TopGun—but then there was Bradley fucking Bradshaw.

Chapter Two // Basic Emotional Manoeuvering: 6.2k Tensions begin to rise between you and Rooster, you and Hangman, and Hangman and Rooster. With a secret close to your chest, you do your best to navigate the drills Maverick has the TopGun class run.

Chapter Three // The Other Women: 6.6k Things were good between you and Rooster for what felt like a total of one whole minute before your entire world came crashing down around you—just like you knew it would. It’s always the same, the more you fuck around? The more you find out.

Chapter Four // Flight 29 Down: 7.1k You were told that for this mission to be a success there would need to be no less then two consecutive miracles—but all you got was a back seater and a shitty ex boyfriend.

Chapter Five // B-Rad: 7k After the death of your father and some time spent with Rooster, you find it in yourself to keep pushing. But stealing an F-18 to run a course you weren’t permitted to has its consequences.

Chapter Six // Addicts: 14.1k All hell breaks loose when the uranium mission doesn’t go according to plan. Rooster follows you down into enemy territory. It’s a race against time to find a way home safely.

Epilogue // Mums the Word: 4.4K What do a Civilian, Captain, Admiral and a Commander have in common? Their love for the two Bradshaw boys.

Concepts & Blurbs

The Cool Uncle // Jake Seresin is determined to be the Cool uncle.

Roosters biggest fear? Back seaters—

Chaos shows Bob the tattoo in honour of him.

The wedding speech // Bob gives an emotional speech then proceeds to get shit faced

Chaos taps out Rooster at his graduation ceremony

Chaos taps out Rooster at his graduation ceremony part two

Chaos hates being pregnant //

***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~

Tags: @lyannaredbird @luckyladycreator2 @skagelynn @teacupdreams @the-winter-marvel33 @mrsjaderogers @katieshook02 @thescarletknight2014 @justanothermagicalsara @4ngelicb4byy @percysaidnever @puriini @luckylexie @is-this-a-febreze-commercial @shrimping-for-all @fayethefairy @lonelywitchv2 @mizzzpink @unforgettwble @itzyogurl92 @lemoonandlestars @mulletmcghee @redqueeen99 @bucky-barmes @mak-32

[callsign-joyride]

My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys | Javy "Coyote" Machado

Summary: You take a break from things with Javy. Lyric: "'Cause it fit too right, puzzle pieces in the dead of night. I should've known it was a matter of time." Content warnings: Slight angst with a happy ending, this is very short

Buy me a coffee

For the most part, everything about the relationship that you and Javy had was straight out of a rom-com. He had seen you around The Hard Deck a few times, but it was when you accidentally knocked his beer over that he finally got your number. You spent almost every day together, even though you lived in different apartments. Javy would pick you up after he got done with work and you’d go out for ice cream, or you’d go out for some drinks at The Hard Deck.

The honeymoon phase didn’t last as long as you thought it would, though. Soon enough, you and Javy would start canceling plans on each other, leaving your time together to be solely on weekends. You’d make up excuses for it, though, by telling yourself that you were both busy with your respective jobs, and his was a lot more serious than yours. You were a school nurse, so your schedule was pretty consistent. There would be nights where Javy was forced to stay at work because of one of Hangman’s fuck-ups, or something else.

You were able to understand everything that was going on, but there was a part of you that wasn’t sure if the relationship was going to work out since you didn’t have as much time for each other. It was an act of self-sabotage, really, when you met Javy at The Hard Deck and walked down the shore with him in silence.

“You’ve been quiet. Is everything okay?” He asked.

“That’s actually what I wanted to talk to you about. I love you a lot, but lately, I’ve been getting the feeling that we aren’t as close as we were at the beginning. It’s like we’re too busy for each other, even on weekends. I can tell that you’re still stuck in your work mindset, and it makes me feel like you’re not fully present.”

“So, what are you saying here?”

“I think we need to take a break so that you can work on leaving the work mindset at work. Don’t freak out - I’m not going anywhere, but I think we should put dates on pause so that you can get your stuff figured out.”

“Okay.”

It only took a few weeks for Javy to come back around. He had texted you after work one day, asking if you wanted to go out to eat, and you said yes. The waitress brought your appetizers over when Javy started to tell you about what he’s been doing.

“I started seeing a therapist,” he said.

“Oh, really? How’s that going?”

“Pretty good, actually. She’s helped me work on my mindset, and I’m not thinking about work when I’m not working as often, if that makes sense. You were right, and I’m glad that I listened to you. I actually invited you out because I was wondering if we could get back together. Maybe not pick up from where we left off, but a fresh start.”

You nodded your head and said yes, giggling as he introduced himself to you and asked for your number.

Taglist:

@littlebadariell @cycbaby @luckyladycreator2 @idontcare-11 @blue-aconite @maverick-wingman @shawty-fenty @littlemisstopgun @rosiahills22 @katieshook02 @justanothermagicalsara @caitsymichelle13 @smoothdogsgirl @adoringsebstan @cherrycola27 @alexxavicry @mrsjaderogers @mak-32 @thefandomimagines @tallrock35 @caatheeriinee07 @bradshawseresinbabe @atarmychick007 @3sriracha @genius2050 @halstead-severide-fan @withakindheartx @Lolliepops2501 @avengersfan25

Taglist form (Google form, email is not asked)

[dragon-kazansky]

Something is missing

Robert 'Bob' Floyd x Reader

Gender neutral reader

Dedicated to @mrsjaderogers

Bob is looking at you and can't help feeling something is missing.

I typed this out on my phone. Will probably contain lots of errors. I'm sorry!!

♡♡♡

To you, if felt like any other day.

To Robert it was a big day.

This is something he has been thinking about for a little while now, but he needed to work up the courage to make it real. He had needed time and someone to help encourage him. Natasha was the only person he felt he could talk to about this before hand.

Natasha was the most supportive person ever. When he told her he wanted to propose, she was over the moon. Nat hugged him and tried to give him ideas on how to ask you.

He already sort of knew how he wanted to ask you, but Natasha was very helpful with the set up.

You arrived at The Hard Deck right on time. Bob was already there. He smiles at you from across the room. You make your way over and join him at the bar, leaning against the counter while he got you something to drink.

This was just like every other time you came here. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. All your friends were present, playing their games, talking to each other. Bob seemed his usual self, except was freaking out on the inside.

This was a huge step, but he knew he wanted to take it with you. You are his everything.

You grab your drink and prepare yourself to go join your friends. However, Bob stops you. He reaches out and grabs your arm gently.

"Will you join me out on the deck for a minute?" He asks.

"Of course," you smile.

You and Bob excuse yourselves to head outside. You didn't see all the looks the others were sharing as they watched you go. You were the only one who didn't know.

You step outside and look out across the beach. The sun had yet to set properly and there were a few people dotted about. It was peaceful and nice.

Popping your drink on the banister, you take an deep breath and enjoy the moment. All the while, Bob reaches for your hand. You turn and smile at him.

"I love you," he says.

"I love you too."

Bob smiles softly. He holds your hand up next to his and looks at it. You frown as you try to work out what he's doing.

"There's something missing here."

Your frown deepens.

"What do you mean?" You ask him.

"Look, doesn't it look... wrong?" He gestures to your hands.

"Our hands? Bob, what are you talking about?"

"They look empty."

You're even more confused now.

"Bob-"

"We should wear rings. Watching ones. Bands on our hands to show how much we love each other, and that we want to spend our lives together."

You stare at him.

"Robert...?"

"I don't have matching band now, but I do have this one that you can have."

Bob pulls out a small box and holds it out to you. You take it with a shaky breath. Slowly, you pull the lid open and find yourself staring at the most beautiful ring you've ever seen. Your teary eyes rise to meet Bob's, but he's already kneeling down, hands resting over yours.

"Will you marry me?"

You struggle to speak for a moment. Overcome with so much love and adoration for this man. You nod your head and manage to squeak out a yes.

Bob stands up and takes the ring from the box. He takes your hand and puts it on for you. In seconds you have your arms wrapped around him as you're pulling him into a kiss.

Cheering comes from the open doors of the bar, but your too focused on the beautiful man in front of you to acknowledge the crowd.

Bob smiles at you.

"I love you so much!"

You grin.

"I love you more, Bob. Always and forever."

He kisses you again.

[jadeylovesmarvelxo]

The Trouble With Love

Part 3

Read Part One here

Read Part Two here

Summary; Steve just wants to forget the pain of losing Nancy for a little while, the tension between the two of you explodes.

Warnings; Angst, Steve is heartbroken, kissing, start of a no strings attached relationship, lil bit smut, 18+ Minors go away!

A short lil update !!💕💕

Tags; @loving-and-dreaming @mrsjaderogers @micheledawn1975 @heyyimmisunderstood @alycunningham @mxcheese @eddiesguitarskills @curiouslycontainedchaos @that-simp-sin

Lmk if you want to be tagged :)

💕💕

I can't do this anymore Steve, I can't do us anymore.

I'm so sorry. I'll be at my parents for a little while if you need to contact me.

I just need some space, not forever but just a little while.

Nancy

After Steve received the note he threw himself into work. Even just being at home was painful so he spent most of the time in his office.

If he wasn't there then he made sure Robin, Vickie and Anna were over so he could stay distracted and busy.

On top of all of that he couldn't stop thinking about you, that one brief kiss that felt like fireworks.

He shouldn't feel this way but he did and he felt like the guilt was eating him alive.

Everything was a mess and he didn't know what to do or how to fight these feelings.

Between the guilt from that and the pain inside him from Nancy leaving all of his emotions were so immense that he just wanted to forget everything for a while.

The nights were the worst. They were cold, lonely and he finds that he can't sleep. He keeps running through his mind what he could have done different, what he should have said.

Why couldn't Nancy have spoken to him, told him that she didn't want kids and had clearly been feeling that way for a long time?

They were married, communication was vitally important yet she couldn't tell him this.

Did she tell Jonathan? Was she seeking comfort with him these last few weeks? Emotionally?

Was this forever? Nancy said it wasn't but who knew what could happen or would she come back?

Even if she did it didn't change the fact they both wanted different things in life.

His head was splitting, he was stressed, tired and feeling like a failure.

He just needed to forget.

❤️

You know that you should stay away, that a the right thing to do but the minute that you see Steve get out of his car, looking so lost and forlorn your heart breaks for him.

Robin had briefly mentioned about Nancy leaving Steve. You couldn't believe that she wrote that she was leaving him in a letter.

He needs a friend so that is exactly what you'll be.

"Steve" you call out and he smiles briefly before it falls from his lips.

"Hey"

"Robin told me about Nancy. I am so so sorry Steve" he sighs as he opens the door and invites you inside.

"Should have seen it coming I guess? We've been arguing for months now and it's just been getting unbearable but I thought we could get past it all"

You don't know what to say that could help him or make him feel better so you gently rub his arm.

"Then on top of all of that I can't stop thinking about our fucking kiss" he rubs his head and you gape, thinking you may have misheard him.

"What?" he whips around and he huffs, shaking his head.

"You've fucking bewitched me or some shit because I can't stop thinking about you! You're everywhere and I can't escape you, when we argue it feels like every part of me is on fire, I look at you and all I want to do is kissing you again and again"

The tension is unbearable, Steve gazes at your lips and you move closer.

"We can't Steve, we..." you trail off as he strokes your cheek and every part of you so badly wants to kiss him.

"I just want to forget sweetheart, all this pain...make me forget" he whispers to you.

When his lips meet yours this time you don't don't stop, his hands grip your hair as you kiss hungrily.

His lips are everywhere, at your neck, over your body, fingers stroking your cheek, his lips trace over your jaw and neck.

Soft moans issue from the both of you, Steve backs you up against the wall, he almost rips you shirt off as he throws it to the floor along with your bra.

"Jesus" he says awed and he

You tug off his shirt running your hands across his chest, leaving kisses and love bites over it.

"Do you know what you do to me?" he whines and you lose all train of thought as he kneels down and begins to kiss up your thighs.

His eyes meet yours, they are full of lust, need. "You're so beautiful" he murmurs and as he kisses his way up to the apex of your thighs sheer pleasure clouds your brain.

If this is just a one time thing then you'll cherish it.

And rock his fucking world

✨🌸💕

[tngrace]

Coming Home

I’ve been sitting on this way too long. So thanks to wifey @bayisdying for getting me over the medical block to finish this. Hope yall enjoy!

🏷ing: @dragon-kazansky @mrsjaderogers​ @askmarinaandothers​

TG/TGM Masterlist

Mav knows the minute he hears Admiral Cain wants to can the Darkstar project that he’s going to do something to piss his husband off, even if Ice would agree that he’s right about the project. He debates giving him a heads up, but he also doesn’t want a lecture yet. He sends Ice a text to check in on how he’s feeling, knowing he still has good and bad days, before he decides to write one last letter. 

He’d been debating a final letter for weeks. He used to write one every month, and then would write one summary one in December before Christmas that would be the one that was mailed. He’s determined Bradley isn’t even reading them, or if he is, he’s not responding to either of them, but he can’t seem to stop writing them. If it wasn’t for Ice’s pull as Commander of the Pacific Fleet (COMPACFLT), they wouldn’t even know where he was stationed, so he guesses he can be thankful for small blessings. But he’s decided this will be the last one; he doesn’t want to keep reminding the kid of what he doesn’t want. And while it hurts, he’s not sure he’ll ever regret doing what he could to keep him safe. 

He quickly scrawls out a couple of pages and seals it, before passing it and Ice’s letter to Hondo. Ice’s letter never changes, always prepared in case Mav does something he can’t get out of and leaves him behind. But thankfully, Ice has never had to read that letter. He hopes today goes the same. He knows Hondo will mail Bradley’s letter regardless of what happens and for that he is thankful. 

Mach 10 came easier than he expected, and he can hear both Ice and Hondo in his head telling him not to do it. But he wouldn’t be Maverick if he didn’t try. He knows when all the warning lights go off, he’s in big trouble, but he’s able to pull the ejection handle just in time. Ice is going to kill me is his last thought before landing on Earth, somewhere. 

It’s not until after his conversation with Cain, and then his conversation at TOPGUN with Cyclone and Warlock, is he able to even see his husband. He heads straight home, spoiling for a fight after all he’s just learned. If Ice thinks he can just railroad him like this, throwing Bradley in his face for a mission that’s impossible, well he doesn’t know his husband at all. 

“Tom,” he shouts, slamming the front door. 

Ice is waiting in the living room already prepared for him. 

“Just what do you think you are doing?!” 

“Well, I was waiting for you to get home so we could decide what to do for dinner tonight, since you’re home and all.” 

“God damnit you know what I meant!!”

“Oh, you mean the meeting at TOPGUN that didn’t go so well?” His eyebrow arches up, infuriating Mav even more. 

“Don’t even start with me! You blindsided me! And for what?! You know this is going to end badly. Cyclone hates me, and you’ve tried how many different times over the years to throw me and Bradley together? Huh? I know you, Tom! I know you’ve tried to do this before now.” 

“And yet, one or both of you manage to screw it up every time.” 

“Don’t even start with that. You know railroading me never works!” 

“Seems to be working this time. You’re home. Our kid is coming home. What more could I ask for? Oh wait… I know. A conversation between you two. Putting all this to rest finally. But that’s right… you two are too much alike for that to happen.”

“I don't have enough middle fingers to let you know how I feel," Mav growls. 

Ice just smirked back, "Is that right, wingman?" 

Maverick just growled and stomped off, Ice silently counting in his head to ten before Mav reappeared like always. “The kid never answers any of our letters. We haven’t seen him in years, and you think throwing us together for a suicide mission is going to work? One, I might add, that I’m not even getting to fly!!!! I’m grounded Ice, fucking grounded to just teach because you know Cyclone will never let me fly.”  

"If you would stop pissing off other admirals, I wouldn't have to keep doing things that piss you off. Just be thankful you're not getting reassigned around the world this time; be thankful you're the one that's going to be bringing him home."

Maverick growled again but deflated when Ice didn’t even flinch. After thirty years together, they knew each other like the back of their own hands. Ice reached out once Mav deflated and pulled him into his arms. “I know you’re mad, and I know you hate it, but it was the best solution I had. I couldn’t not include him - he was top of his TOPGUN class for crying out loud, and well, you are the only one I know that can prepare them. You were always coming back… before you pissed off Cain.” 

Mav grunts, but melts into his embrace. “He’s not going to be happy about this.” 

“Don’t I know it.” Ice sighs deeply, wishing more than anything that his husband and his son were back on better terms. It’d been too long since their boy had been home. Ice had tried over the years, secretly of course, to get them back on the same track, but one or the other always found a way to screw up his plans without even knowing it. “He’ll be here in an hour, so you my dear have to go see Penny.” 

“What?! Why? And how did you get him to agree to come here?” 

Ice smirks and shakes his head fondly. It’s as if Mav doesn’t know him. “Well, the perks of being COMPACFLT is that I can make anything an order.” 

Mav snorts as he pushes off to go get his jacket once more. “And you thought he was pissed at me. That’s just cold.” 

Ice laughs at that. “It’s like you forget what my name is, Maverick.” 

Mav gives him a genuine laugh then. “Fine, I’ll go see Penny while you railroad our kid. But you forget who he takes after the most. Let's just hope your plan works.” 

“I’ve kept you around and out of trouble this long, haven’t I? Surely the kid I half raised will at least have some of my traits too.” 

“Keep telling yourself that Ice. Remember he hasn’t spoken to us in years.” 

“I know,” he sighs. Mav feels bad for throwing that back in Ice’s face again. He knows it bothers his husband just as much as it does him. Losing Bradley will be one of his biggest regrets in life, especially since it made Ice lose him too, but he doesn’t regret protecting him for those extra four years. Mav pulls Ice close for another hug and kiss. “It’ll be ok. You’ll get through to him, I’m sure. You’re good at that.” 

He gets a genuine Ice smile, before his husband is pushing him out the door to his bike. He barely makes his escape before he sees the blue Bronco pulling onto their road. He can’t believe Bradley kept it, even though it makes him happy he did. Mav races off before Bradley can register it’s him on the bike and he prays Ice’s plan works.

---

Bradley knocks on the door to his childhood home. He almost just walks in, but he knows he lost that privilege with all the unanswered letters and calls he collected over the years. The door swings open revealing Iceman giving him a fond look. “Lose your key?” 

Bradley shakes his head. “No sir. Just… wasn’t sure I should use it.” 

Ice gives Bradley a sad look before he steps back motioning him in. He isn’t Iceman right now, his facade dropped, hoping it will get Bradley to be a little more open and receptive to him. “As long as you have that key, it is yours to use Bradley. No matter what.” 

Bradley gives him a nod and his shoulders drop just a touch. “You can relax. Maverick isn’t here. It’s just me and you right now. And while I’d love nothing more than to talk about all the years between then and now, I know that’s not why you’re here. Shall we,” he gestures towards his office. 

He can see Bradley let out a breath that Ice is sticking to business. It breaks his heart a little, but he calls on all his years in the Navy, of being the “Iceman,” to get through this without letting the kid see him break. Bradley sits in the chair across from his desk, so Ice settles behind it.  

Bradley stares at the picture behind Ice’s desk of him and Maverick. He knows the kid has every detail of it memorized, with as much as he saw it growing up, so he’s not sure why he’s fixated on it now. He lets Bradley look though and after a few minutes the kid seems to snap out of it. “If I’m not here to play catch up, then what am I doing here?” After a minute he tacks on a quiet “sir,” which makes Ice snort. 

“Even though it came through as an order, which I only did because I wasn’t sure you would come at a request, you can drop the formalities, Bradley. You know that was never a big thing here in this house.” At Bradley’s nod, Ice sits back into his chair and just watches him a moment before he continues. The kid looks so much like Goose it takes his breath, but he steels himself. “I’m sure you’ve seen your orders to return to TOPGUN for a special detachment.” 

“Yes sir.” 

Ice gives him another nod before he himself looks at the picture over his shoulder. He spins back to Bradley after just a moment. “What I’m fixing to tell you doesn’t leave this room. I know you’ll go to the Hard Deck tonight to see who else has been recalled, and you’ll have your official briefing in the morning. But I’m not going to totally blindside you kid.” 

At Bradley’s confused stare, Ice takes another deep breath and continues. 

“You and eleven other TOPGUN graduates are being recalled for a special detachment from the Pentagon. You will train for four weeks before flying the mission. It’s dangerous, deadly, more than likely a suicide run. I’ve looked it over every which way possible, and it just… I don’t know that everyone is coming back. Six of the twelve will be chosen to fly the mission; the other six will remain in reserve on the carrier. You’ll learn mission details in the morning; that’s not why I brought you here.” 

He can see Bradley’s brain working; can see when it clicks. His face hardens in anger and he’s up pacing Ice’s office before Ice can stop him. “No,” he growls. “No! You can’t do this!” 

“I have no choice, Bradley. The twelve of you were recalled because you are the best of the best, and you proved that at TOPGUN. I had to select the instructor, and there’s no one better. Deep down you know that too.” 

“NO!” 

Ice stood up and walked towards him. Bradley was staring out the large windows that overlooked into the backyard where he’d spent many days playing. He didn’t touch him; he knew better with the anger simmering just under the surface. “You may not want to believe it, but you know he is the best. You know he will do his damned best to get everyone on that mission back home.”

“It doesn’t matter. He’ll wash me out.” 

Ice snorts and holds his hands up in surrender at Bradley’s glare. “I can assure you that won’t happen, Lieutenant.” 

“So much for no formalities,” Bradley snorts. 

Ice tentatively lays his hand on Bradley’s shoulder. When the kid doesn’t shrug him off, he takes it as a good sign. “Bradley, I know you are still angry; you’re going to stay angry until you talk to him.” 

“I have nothing to say!” 

“I know,” Ice sighs. He thinks hard about his next words. “You’ve made that clear and we’ve tried to respect that. But just because you don’t have anything to say doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot you still don’t understand. I don’t know if you ever read any of the letters, but if you didn’t maybe you should. At least mine. I don’t think he would’ve put anything of importance in his – he might’ve but I’m not sure, but some of mine might be enlightening. Just a suggestion.” 

He takes his hand off Bradley’s shoulder. “It’s not going to be easy, but Bradley, I won’t tolerate blatant disrespect of him in front of the others, let me make that clear. You might not want to hear what he has to say, you might not want to listen to his instructions, but you will pretend if nothing else. He’ll make you an even better aviator than you already are, and if you want to come home from this mission, you should probably listen to at least some of his knowledge. Because I believe deep down that he is going to be the reason everyone comes home.” 

Bradley gives him a stare that could rival his own icy glare. “I’m not Maverick. I know how to not piss off people in power. If you haven’t been following, which I feel sure you have based on the letters you mentioned, you know I’ve been compared to you more times than not. I won’t like it, I’ll probably even hate it, but you don’t have to worry about me.” 

“I’ll always worry about you Bradley. Like it or not, you are our kid in everything but blood. You are the only kid we ever had or will have. Nothing will change that, especially not your anger. But Bradley, I want you to think about something. You lost your mom and dad way too young. You worshiped the ground your uncle walked on while growing up. You loved like there was no tomorrow, and you got that from your mom and dad. It’s been years, and had they not caught my cancer early, you would only be left with the one person you can’t stand as family. Is it worth it kiddo?” 

Bradley swallows deep and Ice just prays he got through to him. “Is it worth the decades long silence? Is it worth being alone in the world? Is the anger worth it?” The silence stretches between them. “Think about it. And Bradley, just know we love you, more than anything. Nothing will ever change that.” 

Bradley gives him a nod, and then he’s walking out the door. Ice lets out a deep sigh, doing his best to hold back tears before he sends Mav a text. He lets him know he’s done with the kid, and he will more than likely be arriving soon if he wants to make an escape. He just hopes this was the right decision and it doesn’t blow up like Mav seems to think it will.  

---

Training goes about as expected. The kids are cocky, think they know it all. Bradley won’t even speak, much less wants to hear what he’s trying to teach them. Their hops are a mixture of disasters waiting to happen, and Mav feels like he’s at the end of the rope. He tries to force Bradley’s hand in the air, tries to get him to say everything he won’t, tries to get him to take the shot, but it doesn’t work. He’s too cautious, thinking too much, and Mav isn’t sure he’s going to be able to get through to him. The thought of not being able to bring Bradley home from this mission scares him more than anything. 

Ice keeps assuring him that deep down Bradley is more than likely listening. But Mav just doesn’t see it. The day Hangman decides to be an ass, Mav almost loses it, but he’s too shocked at the brazenness of the man and his statements. He can’t keep control of Bradley though, so Mav dismisses them all knowing they all need a break after that blow-up. He knew Goose would more than likely be a touchy subject with the kid, but he didn’t realize it would be that much of one. 

What Mav doesn’t realize is that Bradley was more pissed that Hangman was insinuating Mav was in the wrong. He was defending the dad he knew and loved for the first time in years. It was a startling realization for Bradley and he’s not sure what to do with it. The next day Mav gives them the morning off, which is odd considering their timeframe, and tells them to meet on the beach at lunch. Bradley uses the morning to stew, unable to help it. He debates pulling out the letters and reading them then, but he can’t do it. Deep down he knows he still loves his Dad and Pops, but this anger has been burning for too many years to let it go so easily. 

The dogfight football game feels like a bridge to letting go though. Especially when he watches Mav get tackled and he can’t help but help him up, knowing Ice is watching from the deck with Penny. He sees the look of bewilderment on Mav’s face, and he chances a glance at Ice behind his aviators, seeing a look of happiness and approval. He doesn’t address either and just jumps back into the game. Maybe things can start to mend.

Those thoughts fall apart though when Coyote goes into G-Lock and Phoenix and Bob eject from a bird strike. It puts him on edge and why he stays in the ready room feeling like he can’t go home yet. Deep down he knew Mav would come check on him, even though Bradley would be looking for an outlet for his emotions. The conversation spirals faster than he was expecting, and he regrets the words as soon as they leave his mouth. He just wanted Mav to hurt like he did. He can see he accomplished that by looking at his face. Just as he’s fixing to apologize and take them back, Warlock interrupts them. 

“Mav. It’s Iceman.” 

The look on Warlock’s face has them both freezing; Bradley had just seen him a few days ago on the beach and he looked fine. He can feel Mav start to tremble beside him as Warlock tells them that Ice has been taken to the hospital and Mav needs to get over there. He offers to drive him, but Bradley is grabbing Mav’s arm before he can stop himself. 

“I’ll take him, sir.” Warlock looks them over, but Mav gives a barely there nod and Warlock lets them go. He drags Mav to the Bronco, not sure how he is the steady one. He gets them there in record time, and follows Mav in. A nurse directs them to a waiting room, and Mav just collapses into a chair while Bradley paces. He’s not been good with hospitals since his mom got sick, so he can’t sit still. 

Thankfully they don’t have to wait long before a doctor is getting Mav and explaining what happened: that they were running some test, but they were hopeful that he was still in remission. They told Mav that Ice wasn’t talking, but that didn’t seem to rattle Mav like it rattled Bradley. All his regrets slam into him hard; he should’ve come back when Ice was sick. He’d know more about what was going on right now instead of feeling like he’s missing whole sections of a puzzle. 

The doctor leaves them after just a few minutes and Mav turns back to a pacing Bradley. He wants to pull him close and reassure him that everything is going to be ok, but he doesn’t. He’s not sure how Bradley would respond, not after their fight less than an hour ago, nor does he know that everything is going to be ok. The doctor returns after another ten minutes and informs Mav that they can see Ice. He’s in a room now, but they won’t have test results for a few more hours. He turns to Bradley to see if he wants to come with him, but Bradley just freezes. 

“No… It’s… You go. I’ll… I’ll bring the Jeep tomorrow.” 

“You sure?” He wants to reach out and pull his kid into his arms, but he doesn’t. 

“Yea. Just... Just text me, please.” He knows he doesn’t really have a right to ask, but he doesn’t think he’ll be ok with not knowing.

“Of course. I’ll keep you posted. Go get some rest.” 

Bradley gives him a nod before watching Mav walk away. He wants to go with him, wants the comfort of one of Mav’s hugs, but he doesn’t think he deserves it, not after what he’d said to Mav tonight. Once Mav is out of sight, he heads towards his house. Once home, he paces some more feeling too keyed up to sleep. He wasn’t surprised when the email came through at 2100 from Mav saying that they were grounded with the day off tomorrow. He stripped out of his flight stuff, slipping into some sweats, before he dug out the box he carried everywhere. It had all the letters and cards over the years from Ice and Mav along with other things from his childhood. He’d never opened them; he’d come close several times, but never gave into the desire. Now he did. 

He started with the envelopes in Ice’s handwriting, remembering his words from his first day back stateside about his letters having important information. He already had them sorted by years, so it wasn’t hard to read them in order. It took almost six years before Ice started trying to get him to come home. It was at year ten that he found the information he’d longed to know. 

Bradley,

I don’t even know if you’re reading these, but I hope that maybe you are reading our words. That you know how much we love you, how much we miss you, how proud of you we are. I know by your silence you’re not ready to talk, and that is fine, I get it. But kiddo, we miss you. Something terrible. And I pray that one day soon you’ll be back home. 

I don’t know if it’s too little too late, but I know Mav is never going to tell you. I love him dearly, but he’s stubborn as fuck, and no matter how much I’ve tried, he’s not going to listen.

Bradley there is one thing you know about your uncle, and that is that he always keeps a promise. Always. No matter what. This isn’t mine to tell, but I’m going to tell you anyway because I’m hoping it’ll bring you home. Mav made a promise to your mom to protect you no matter what. Bradley, she loved you more than anything, you were her whole world and even more so after your dad died. She would’ve done anything for you, and she did. She gave you the chance to have the most wonderful life ever. She made Mav promise to give you that, to keep you safe, and he did. Mav promised he would keep you alive longer than your dad, and even though I tried to get him to just talk to you, he did what he thought was best. 

I don’t know if you’ll ever understand, or forgive us, but I hope this gives you some answers. You always have a home with us, and honestly, we can’t wait for you to be home. 

Love, Ice

Bradley felt tears running as he pushed the rest of Ice’s letters aside to dive into Mav’s. He had to know if Mav ever explained, or if he just let him keep hating him all these years for no reason. The letters during Ice’s cancer treatments were hard to read, and Bradley found himself crying harder as he read Mav’s words and felt his pain. His regret of not being there during that time might never go away. He’s not even sure if he can apologize enough.  

Around 0130, he got a text from Mav that Ice was going to be ok. It was just a case of bronchitis, and they were just going to keep him the next day to keep him on some oxygen and monitor everything. His voice was going to be rough for a while, but he would be ok. He didn’t open the message just yet; he didn’t want to leave Mav on read, so he waited as he kept reading through the letters. The last one Mav sent caught his attention. It came two days before he got his recall for the special detachment. 

Kiddo, 

I’ve gathered you’re more than likely not reading these, and I’m sure you’re tired of getting these, so I’ll say this is more than likely going to be my last one.  If this training op doesn’t kill me, your Pops probably will. You know I can’t tell you much, and hopefully one day you’ll know all about it, but I was supposed to go Mach 9 today. The good Admiral over this testing has changed his mind, so you know me. The threshold for the project is Mach 10, and I will be reaching that today. What happens after that is anyone's guess. 

Bradley, I want you to know how much I love you. From the moment I held you when you were a day old, I knew you were going to be an important part of me. I didn’t know how important then, but I knew. I loved you from that moment, and that has never changed. No matter how old you get, no matter where you go, no matter what you do, I’m always going to love you. You’re my son in everything but blood, and I love you, Bradley.

Since this is my last letter, and I don’t think I’m ever going to get to see you again, I guess it’s time I tell you some truths. First, your parents loved you more than anything, and I wish upon every wish possible that they’d gotten to see what an amazing man you’ve grown into. The fact that neither were here long enough with you is a pain I carry forever - I know I was a poor substitute, but I hope that they and you can at least see I tried. If nothing else, I loved you like they wished. Second, you’re not going to want to hear this, but I don’t regret pulling your papers. I hate how things went down after, but Bradley, I gave you the chance to grow up, to make sure this is what you wanted, to make sure you’d matured enough to understand what you were doing. I told you that you weren’t ready, but that was a lie. Ice and I made sure you were always ready. Truthfully, I wasn’t ready - I wasn’t ready to watch you risk your life like I did, like your dad did; I didn’t want to lose you the same way.  I promised your mom I’d keep you safe, and I did that the best way I knew how. 

If you hear that I didn’t make it on this training mission, check in on Ice for me sometime. He might have backed me, like a good wingman and husband, but kid, he was not happy about the whole thing. He tried to get me to tell you the truth that night (and every year since), but I couldn’t. I didn’t want to taint the memory of how much your mom loved you, and I knew all you would hear that night was that she didn’t want you to fly, that we weren’t letting you fly. He’s missed you so much Bradley, and I will forever regret that my actions cost him you - the closest thing to a son he was ever going to get. 

I have to go get suited up, but just know I love you Baby Goose. Always. 

Mav. 

Bradley was sobbing by the time he was done reading it. He didn’t even bother flipping through anything else in the box. He just wanted his dads. He grabbed his phone and keys, still clutching that last letter from Mav, and headed back to the hospital. He sent Mav a quick text before he pulled out telling him he’d be there soon. 

His phone started ringing as he raced down the highway back towards the hospital. He answered it without thinking, his voice rough from the tears. “Bradley what are you doing? You don’t have to come back. You should be asleep.” 

“I…” he hiccupped on another sob. “I read the letters. I… I’ll be back in ten. Please just…” 

Mav does his best to hide his reaction to Bradley saying he’d read the letters. “Bradley. Hey, breathe. I need you to focus on driving if you’ve already left.” 

“Yea... Yea.” He sniffed, wiping at his eyes, putting the phone on speaker. “You’re on speaker. I’ll be there in ten.” 

“Ok. You got my text with the room number?”

“Yea. Just… be there please,” he begged. 

“Not going anywhere ki— Bradley. But I’m going to stay on the phone, make sure you get here.” 

“Yea… yea that’s fine.” 

Mav talked about Ice and what the doctor said, assuring Bradley he was going to be fine and would be home in a day or two. Bradley asked about the voice thing, and Mav explained how some days his voice is rougher than others from the cancer and treatments. It comes and goes, some days he doesn’t speak at all. He tells Bradley about learning ASL, and how that’s how they communicate on the hard days. He’s at the hospital before he knows it, and he tells Mav he’ll be right in. 

He’s not surprised to find Mav standing out in the hall waiting on him. His hand still clutches the letter, and he can’t stop from running straight into Mav’s arms hugging him tight. He feels Mav squeeze back, and it breaks him, the sobs coming hard. 

“It’s ok Bradley, it’s ok,” he murmurs over and over. Bradley shakes his head no repeatedly even though he keeps his face buried in Mav’s neck. 

“It’s not. I was awful, to you both, but especially to you. Just a few hours ago…  I didn’t mean it Mav, I didn’t. I wanted to take it all back as soon as I said it. I was going to but Warlock-”

“Bradley, breathe.” Mav’s hand ran up and down his back. “Just breathe.” 

Bradley took a deep breath as he shuddered in Mav’s arms. “You can go back to nicknames,” he whispers because it feels weird to have Mav constantly calling him Bradley. Almost as an afterthought he whispers “dad.” 

He feels Mav’s sharp inhale, and he just buries his face deeper in his neck. “Ok kiddo,” Mav whispers and Bradley smiles against his neck. 

Bradley slowly pulls back and leans up against the wall next to the door to Ice’s room. The letter is clutched in his hand, and he won’t meet Mav’s eyes. “Wanna tell me what happened?” Mav asks, standing in front of Bradley. 

Bradley runs his hands over his face before holding up the letter. “I finally read them. I was… I was too restless to try and sleep, and Ice’s words from my first day back kept running through my head. He told me there might be important things in the letters, especially his. So, I started reading through them, but I didn't finish his though. Mav… why? Why didn’t you tell me? Why have you let me…” 

Mav chuckles softly before propping up on the wall beside Bradley. “Kid I love you to death, but you just had to pick up my temper. It was too much to ask for you to get Ice’s.” He sighs as he runs a hand down his face. “I remember what it was like to be your age and be told you couldn’t fly… yet. And I knew you would lash out, and I didn’t want it to be at your mom. She meant well, but she was scared. And I got it. Looking at you, knowing I could lose you the same way. I just… I couldn’t do it. It was easier to know you were still out there, to know you were ok and still breathing, to chance it. The only thing I regret is you losing your Pops.” 

“I lost you both,” Bradley whispers. “I lost you both because I was a fucking idiot. If I’d just thought…” 

“No. Bradley this isn’t on you. You hear me?” Mav asks, grabbing his face and making him look at him. “You were a kid. It’s on me. I should’ve just let you cool down and then explain but I didn’t. I should’ve listened to Ice, but I didn’t. This is not on you.” 

Bradley gives him a shaky nod. “I’m sorry I didn’t come home. I’m sorry I wasn’t here when Pops was sick. I’m sorry I’ve been nothing but a jerk since getting back. And I’m especially sorry for the words I said in the ready room a few hours ago. None of them were true.” 

Mav pulls him close and places a kiss on his forehead. “I know, kid. I know. It was a ‘textbook Mitchell fit’ as your Pops would say.” 

Bradley snorts but nods, pulling Mav in for a tight hug. “You’re forgiven B. And I don’t want you to let it sit in your mind. None of it. You hear me? It’s all forgiven and we’re moving on. I need you totally focused on this mission.” 

“I hear ya.” Mav pulls back cradling his face once more. “Your parents would be proud of you. We’re proud of you. And I know you don’t think so, but you’re a hell of a pilot. I just need you to think less up there, ok? Just fly like you know how.” Bradley swallows deep but nods. “We’ve got time, we’ll make this mission a success,” Mav promises. He gets another nod from Bradley. “Come on, you need to rest,” Mav says, leading Bradley into Ice’s room.

Bradley freezes inside the doorway. “Hey, he’s ok. I promise.” 

Bradley feels tears in his eyes once more. “I know kiddo. I know. It’s not easy, but I promise, he’s ok.” Bradley let’s Mav push him into the chair beside the bed before he can protest. Mav just grabs another chair and pulls it beside Bradley. He lays his hand on Bradley’s back as Bradley grabs Ice’s hand and drops his head to the bed. “I’m sorry Pops, so sorry,” he cries softly. 

Before Mav can reassure him, Bradley’s head shoots up as Ice squeezes his hand. Blue eyes are staring back at him, and Bradley just cries harder. Ice reaches out and cradles Bradley’s head trying to pull him closer. Bradley resists for half a heartbeat not wanting to hurt him, until he sees Ice trying to talk. “No, no, no. Dad said you can’t talk yet. Don’t, please don’t try.” 

Ice turns to give Mav an exasperated look, and Mav just shrugs. “You’re the one who didn’t tell me you were having a bad day nor that you weren’t feeling good. The doc seems to think all the coughing has irritated your throat and it would be better not to talk yet.” 

Ice takes his hand off Bradley’s face and holds his hand out to Maverick. Mav sighs but hands over his phone. “I’m assuming telling you to rest right now is pointless.” 

Ice just gives him a dry stare and Mav rolls his eyes. Ice expertly unlocks the phone and starts typing quickly. Bradley watches him and Ice turns the phone towards him before putting his hand back on Bradley’s face. 

You have nothing to be sorry for Bradley. It’s just good to see you here, even though none of us want to be here. A hug would be nice though. 

Bradley drops the phone and leans closer, burying his face in Ice’s neck like he’d done Mav earlier as Ice wraps his arm around him hugging him tight. “I’m so sorry. I read the letters. Well not all of yours. I’m going to though I swear. I just... I read the important one and then I had to read Dad’s and I just…” 

Bradley stops his rambling when Ice squeezes the back of his neck, and he hears Mav whisper to breathe again. He takes a deep breath before meeting Ice’s eyes. “I’m going to finish reading them, but I just had to get back. I needed to be here, needed you both.” 

Ice rubs the back of his head before reaching for the phone once more. I’m glad you’re here kiddo. That’s all that matters. It’s forgiven. I’m sure Dad has already told you that.

“He has. I just…”

Mav leaned forward and laid his hand over Ice’s on Bradley’s. “I know it’s going to take some time. It doesn’t feel real. But Roo, everything is forgiven. Has been.” Bradley wrinkles his nose a little at that new nickname, but at the same time he doesn’t mind it coming from Mav.

For a change I’m going to agree with Mav. Bradley snorts hard as he reads it, and Mav rolls his eyes affectionately at his husband. Everything was forgiven right after it happened. We never stopped loving you, never will. You’re our kid and that means we love you regardless. 

Bradley lets the words soak in, figuring out how to say what he wants because he’s not sure if Mav knows about his conversation with Ice before their first day, but he knows he owes Ice another apology. “Pops I…” he swallows deep as he studies the bed. Ice cards a hand through his hair as he watches him. 

“I owe you another apology. I told you that you wouldn’t have to worry about me… and I did the one thing you were worried about. Just… Just a few hours ago. It wasn’t in front of anyone but I… I still did it.” 

Ice just watches him; he’s never lost that ice cold stare even after all these years and it falls into place as Bradley stumbles through what he’s trying to admit. Bradley does his best not to shrink in front of it because while he’s seen it before, it’s never been directed at him like this and he knows in this instance he deserves it. Mav is bouncing his eyes between them like a tennis match unsure of what is really happening. 

“What are you talking about?” Mav finally asks. 

Neither answer him as Ice picks up the phone once more and starts typing. Bradley knows if he could talk, he’d be getting an icy lecture right about now. 

Want to tell me what happened? 

Bradley reads it and shakes his head no, even though he knows the story will spill out. Ice's eyes turn to Mav who just stares right back. He signs something to Mav knowing Bradley won't understand. Mav signs something back just as hastily, before rolling his eyes. “The icy stare lost its effect on me in ’86, dear husband." 

Ice snorts but picks the phone up once more. Mav says it's nothing for me to worry about and to tell you you're forgiven. I get the feeling you want to tell me even though you say no. 

Mav groans as he reads the words over Bradley's shoulder. "Stop railroading our kid," he growls. 

Bradley gives Mav the most self-deprecating smile either of them have ever seen from him. "It's ok Dad. I brought it up; I can tell him. Besides, if you think I haven't learned when I'm being railroaded, you're wrong. I knew the original order to come to the house was just that. I didn't expect him to send you away, but I can handle it." 

Mav cackles as Ice just rolls his eyes at them before he breaks into a cough that has both his boys jumping up before he can wave them off. Mav gets him a drink as Bradley sinks back into his chair. "However, I think I'm going to insist on postponing this conversation until you're better."

Ice passes Mav the cup back before turning his eyes on Bradley. Bradley does shrink a little this time and sighs. "Fine. Today was stressful. Coyote went into G-Lock and Phoenix and Bob had to eject because of a bird strike." Ice turns his eyes to Mav before Bradley can continue. 

"Later," he sighs. Ice turns his attention back to Bradley as a sign to continue. 

"I was on edge. I was looking for a fight. I think Dad knew that too." He swallows as he takes a breath, and Mav won't give either of them the satisfaction of saying he did know. The kid has been spoiling for a fight since day one. 

"Anyway, I knew he would find me after something like that and I couldn't get myself to leave the ready room; not til I knew Phoenix would be ok. I knew the right words to say to push the right buttons," he shrugs. 

Ice pinches his nose knowing exactly where this was going. "I said things I didn't mean because I knew it would hurt." Bradley won't meet his eyes anymore. "It was stupid. And I'm so sorry," he says looking between them both. "So sorry for everything. If I'd just used my brain, thought like everyone says I do too much of, all of this…. None of this…. I could've." 

"Bradley. Hey." Mav gently squeezes the back of his neck calming him like he used to. "It's ok. I told you it's ok. And I meant it. I didn't just say it to make you feel better. It's the truth. Everything is ok, and most importantly it's not your fault." 

Bradley nods as he chews on his lip still not meeting Ice's eyes. If there’s one thing Bradley knows for certain, it’s that Ice doesn’t take too kindly to people mistreating Mav. Ice made sure to remind him of that even, and Bradley did it anyways because he was stupid and let his misplaced anger control him.  "Ice," Maverick growls when Ice won't sign or type anything just watching them. He hates seeing his kid in pain, thinks it's right up there with watching Ice struggle with his health. 

"No Dad, it's fine, it's… I get it," Bradley says softly with a shrug. He moves to stand up and Maverick shoves him back down in the chair, keeping a hand on his shoulder so he doesn't move. Bradley looks between them, at the stare down they’re having - a silent conversation they don’t want him to hear - and sighs. At least some things never change, he thinks as he drops his head.

Ice picks up the phone once more and starts furiously typing away, making Bradley seem to shrink into himself even more than Mav thought possible; Bradley mistaking the furious typing for what it really is - a desperate need to get the words out as fast as possible. It's times like this where Mav hates that Ice can't use that beautiful voice of his. He squeezes Bradley’s shoulder in what he hopes will be reassurance until Ice turns the phone towards them.

Your dad is right once again kiddo. God I'm never going to hear the end of it agreeing with him this much. But when it comes to you, we agree more than not. We love you. Nothing will change that. And because we love you so much, everything is forgiven. I appreciate you telling me - you didn't have to. Mav is not going to hold it against you. If anyone understands what you were doing, it would be him. You might’ve said you've been compared to me more than him, but kiddo, you act just like him - especially when you're mad. We love you. And you need to put all this behind you today so you can focus on the mission, you hear me? I know Mav has done his best to prepare all twelve of you, but Baby Goose. You must be focused if you go. You can't be thinking about anything else, not us, not this. Nothing. But coming home. We just got you back. I refuse to lose you again, son. 

Bradley feels tears as he reads the phone. Mav gives Ice a smile before Ice is being pulled into a tight hug. If the kid wasn't so big now, he knows Bradley would've climbed in the bed with him like he used to do when Mav would get injured. "Love you too Pops," he whispers through his tears. 

Doctors’ orders be damned, Ice thinks. "Love you too kiddo," he whispers, and Bradley just squeezes him tighter as more tears leak out. He stays in Ice’s hold until he feels himself relax all the tension away and he sinks back into the chair. 

“You should go home and get some sleep,” Mav tells Bradley when he sees the exhaustion on his son’s face now that the anxiety is gone. 

“Not leaving. I saw your email that we’re grounded today. I have nowhere to be but here.” 

Ice snorts from the bed as he rearranges to go back to sleep. Told you. Just like your dad.

“Would you stop it. He flies just like you and last time I checked you’re just as much a stubborn bastard. The kid was doomed with stubbornness.” 

Ice would laugh out loud if he could as Bradley groans around them like he did when he was a teenager. “I’m still right here. And don’t think I didn’t figure out what this is,” he says with a shudder pointing between the two of them. "Stop it until you’re home, please,” he begs. 

Ice snorts again as Mav laughs, neither embarrassed as Bradley would like them to be for flirting (or more like foreplay his unhelpful mind supplies) in front of their kid. “Just for you Baby Goose.” Bradley rolls his eyes as he gets comfy in the chair. 

“Now it’s 0300, get some sleep,” Bradley tells them both. Mav settles back into the chair beside him and leans over grabbing Ice’s hand. Bradley watches them with a fond smile before getting up to dim the lights. He does his best to get comfy, his head ending up on the bed beside Ice and Mav’s joined hands. He smiles a little when he feels fingers running through his hair like when he was a kid and promptly falls asleep. 

Bradley manages to sleep through nurses coming in every couple of hours to check on them and the doctors’ rounds the next morning at 0800. No one has the heart to move him off the bed, and Mav honestly thinks Ice would flay whoever tried. They’re going to keep him through at least lunch, but they’re hoping to discharge him that afternoon. 

Mav goes to get coffee and breakfast after the doctor leaves and Ice just watches Bradley sleep. He hates that he’s sick and can’t talk right now, but it accomplished what they haven’t been able to do in years. His fingers gently run through Bradley’s hair, and he can’t help but smile a little. Their family is whole once more. Mav sneaks back in, smiling himself as he sees Ice watching Bradley sleep. He knows how much they’ve both missed the kid, and he can’t help but feel elation knowing they have him back. 

Bradley stirs at the smell of coffee and food, jerking upright when he remembers where he is. “Morning Roo.” 

“Ugh, Morning,” he grunts, stretching out his back until it pops. 

“Breakfast burritos and coffee,” he says, laying out his finds on the tray. “Tea for you Admiral,” he smirks at Ice’s scowl. He drinks tea on the days his throat gives him trouble, but some days - today - it’s not what he wants. He hands Bradley his coffee, “Iced with oat milk, mocha, and sugar. Hopefully your weird coffee habits haven’t changed since you were a teen?” 

He knows Mav is a little anxious to get it right, so Bradley grins as he takes the largest sip possible to get his brain fully back online. “Still the same,” he grins, inhaling some more. 

He digs into the burritos as Mav tells him what he missed when the doctors came around. “Would… I mean… Could I come home today?” he asks them quietly once Mav is done explaining. 

“You’re always welcome home,” Ice whispers. Drinking the tea has helped along with not talking since being there, so he just rolls his eyes at Mav’s glare. He just wants to talk to his kid damnit. 

Bradley looks on the verge of scolding him too, so he just reaches for Mav’s phone once more because he has no clue where his is at the moment. Fine I won’t talk … yet! You’re always welcome home Bradley. We would love nothing more. 

“Mav?” Bradley asks tentatively. He’s not sure how comfortable they are with his slip ups of “Dad and Pops” from the middle of the night terror, so he’s trying to tread carefully. 

“Pops is right. You’re always welcome home Baby Goose.” 

The smile they get in return could light up the whole room. “K well I think I’ll go pack then, and then come pick ya up once you’re free?” 

He gets a nod from them both and a promise from Mav to let him know when they’re discharged so he can be back to get them since he drove Mav there in the middle of the night. He hugs them both tight, especially his Pops, before he cleans up their breakfast trash and heads to his on-base housing. It’ll be nice to be back in a bed that is comfortable. 

While Bradley is packing, Cyclone stops by the hospital to check on the Admiral and talk to Maverick. Ice can’t hear the conversation in the hallway, but when Mav returns, he knows something is up. What was that about?

Mav sighs as he sinks into the chair. He runs his fingers through his hair before meeting his husband’s eyes. “He grounded me - permanently. Said my focus needs to be here, and that he is taking over training because even if I was to come back tomorrow, I’d be too worried about you. You know he never wanted me to begin with so not surprised.” 

Mav can feel the temperature drop as Ice’s facade drops into place as he starts typing. Where is my phone?!

“What are you going to do?” Mav asks skeptically. 

Phone. Hand it over Maverick!

“It’s fine Tom, really. I should be focused on you. I should’ve given this up a long time ago to better take care of you. These kids don’t want to listen, hell Bradley didn’t want to listen. I’m not a teacher Ice, I’m a pilot. And even if I could’ve taught that, it’s not what they want. It’s not what the Navy wants. That’s why they canned me the last time. You’re the only reason I was pulled for this mission, and you know it. It’s probably better this way.” 

The Navy needs Maverick. The kids need Maverick - Bradley needs you. That’s why I fought for you and why I’ll continue to fight for you. If you lost your wingman in the air, you’d keep fighting; you wouldn't give up. You’re already attached to the kids; you’re not going to let anything happen to them, especially Bradley. You’ve not lost your wingman on the ground either so hand me my phone Pete. 

He digs through the bag the nurse gave him of all the stuff Tom had on him when he came in. He pulls out the phone and stares Ice down before reluctantly handing it over. “Don’t give me that look,” Ice rasps before dialing. 

A nurse returns with their discharge paperwork, and Mav listens to all the instructions while Ice schedules a meeting for in the morning. He texts Bradley that they will be ready when he gets back. As soon as Ice hangs up, Mav helps him redress. “What time is your meeting?”

“0800. And while I’m in the meeting, you’re going to show the kids this mission is possible.” 

Maverick just stares at him as Ice smirks. “Admiral, are you suggesting I steal a plane while you’re on base?” 

“I never said those words. What you do while Cyclone is tied up is up to you dear.” 

Maverick snorts as a plan forms in his head. “Not a word of this to Bradley.” Ice gives him a nod of agreement. 

Bradley returns and they get settled at home. The night is nice and peaceful, catching up on things Bradley wants to share - deployment and missions, friends and partners. It’s of no surprise to either of them when Bradley admits he and Jake are exes. “You owe me a steak dinner,” Maverick tells Ice, tipping his glass at him. 

“Seriously?! You bet on my love life?!” Bradley acts so scandalized; his dads can’t help but laugh. 

“Kiddo if you only knew the amount of betting that went on at TOPGUN throughout the years. Betting is just habit at this point. Besides, Pops here didn’t believe me when I said you two acted just like we did back in the day.” 

They finish out the night with more stories before Ice gets tired and Maverick and Bradley both insist he go rest. Bradley sleeps like the dead for the first time in years, and the next morning when he gets up to report back to base, he’s surprised to see Ice in uniform. 

“What’s going on?” he mumbles as Mav passes him some coffee. 

“Nothing for you to worry about Baby Goose,” Ice rasps. Bradley shoots Mav a look, but Mav won’t meet his eyes. 

“Uh huh. I don’t buy that. You just got released yesterday. You’re not seriously going back to work already?!” 

“Just for a meeting this morning. Then I’ll be back home.” 

“They couldn’t reschedule?” 

Mav snorts before he can stop himself, and Ice and Bradley both shoot him looks. “Oh for the love! Just tell the kid already,” Mav sighs, throwing up his hands and going to get his keys to Ice’s Jeep. 

“Nothing for you to worry about. We’ll discuss tonight.”

Bradley shoots looks between them, but neither will cave. “You know we only have like two days left right? Whatever it is just tell me now.” 

“Tonight,” Ice repeats. He joins Mav at the door leaving Bradley to follow. 

“Fine. See you on base,” he calls to Mav before jumping in the Bronco and heading off. 

“He’s going to be pissed you didn’t tell him,” Mav singsongs as he gets in the driver’s seat much to Ice’s displeasure. 

“I didn’t need him storming in Cyclone’s office in a Mitchell fit. Besides, he'll be too distracted by you.” 

As planned, Mav takes an F-18 up and runs the course while Ice has Cyclone cornered in his office. They hear everything from the control tower, and Ice knows if he wasn’t standing there, Cyclone would be livid. As it is, the Air Boss doesn’t know what to say as Ice rips him a new one over trying to ground Mav. He meticulously lists all the reasons why Mav needs to be the one to finish the last two days teaching, and then informs Cyclone, when they hear confirmation from the control tower that Mav hit the target, that Mav will be team leader now. He doesn’t like the idea of sending his husband on this mission, but he knows it’s the best plan. 

After Maverick is back on the ground and rejoined the team in the ready room, Cyclone joins them and informs them that Mav will be team leader and that they will be running more training ops with him in the air for the rest of the afternoon. All twelve are impressed and eager to get in the air with Maverick; Ice gives his husband a soft smile and sneaks out before the kids see him. 

Bradley wasn’t as pissed as Maverick predicted, since everything worked out. But he has to agree with Ice that grounding Mav was the wrong call. He knows things shifted for not just himself, but the team as well and he’s starting to believe that maybe, just maybe they’ll be able to pull this off. 

Training is intense for the next two days, and reality doesn’t set in until he’s packing for the carrier, listening to Mav and Ice talk down the hall. They’re having a mini argument about whether Ice should come along or not. Bradley wants to agree with Mav on this one that Ice needs to stay here and look after himself, but Iceman is not going for it. In the end Bradley knows Pops will more than likely get his way so he stays out of it. Once he’s packed, he pulls the letters out to read again. He’d finished reading Ice’s the second night of being back in his old bedroom. But tonight, he feels like reading over some of them again to make sure he hasn’t missed anything and to be reminded that their love never changed. 

“You ok kiddo?” Mav asks from the doorway, startling him a bit. 

“Yea… yea all packed and ready.” He puts the letters back in the box and back on the desk. 

Mav points to the bed beside him and Bradley nods making room for Mav to sit down. “You sure you’re ok?” 

“Yea… it’s just… I think it’s finally sinking in. You convince Pops to stay?” 

“What do you think?” Bradley snorts and shakes his head no. “You’d be correct then kiddo.” 

“Do you know what you’re going to do tomorrow?” 

Mav sighs, dropping his head a bit before meeting Bradley’s eyes once more. “I know the two-man teams. And I think I know what I’m going to do for my wingman. I know what Pops wants me to do.” 

“And what’s that?” 

“He wants me to let go.” 

“Huh? Let go of what?” 

“You… Wants me to let go of you, Bradley.” 

“What… What does that even mean?” 

Mav gives him a sad smile before releasing a sigh. “I have a problem letting go of people and things. Until I met your dad at my first deployment, they called me a lone wolf. Hell even after your dad determined to stick to me, they still considered my flying to be lone wolfish. I didn’t trust people, but once I trusted them, I kinda hung on to them tight.” 

“And that’s why you always talk to Goose,” Bradley whispered. Ever since Mav became “dad,” he always referred to Nick by his callsign. He knows that’s really his dad, but he barely remembers him. The only dads he knows are Mav and Ice. 

“Yea… I can’t let go.” Mav takes a deep breath to recenter. “So, in retrospect, you could say I’ve held on to you too.”

“And Pops thinks it’s time to let go, to let me protect myself.” 

“In a sense. I know he’s right… I know you can do this. I’ve never doubted your abilities, Bradley. I know that’s what you’ve thought all these years since I pulled your papers, but that wasn’t why. You can do this, and I know you can make it back home. That need to protect you though, to keep you safe…” 

“I get it Dad. I don’t know that I’m going to like watching you go on this. I know in the back of my mind you’ve done all kinds of crazy missions over the years, but it’s different seeing it happen right in front of you. I’m… I’m not going to hold it against you if you pick someone else. I know you probably think I will, but I won’t.”

Mav gives him another sad smile before he pulls Bradley into a side hug. He places a kiss on his forehead before letting him go. “I love you kid. And no matter what happens tomorrow, know I’m proud of you and love you so much.” 

“Love you too Dad.” 

They both barely sleep that night, but the next morning all three of them are off to the port to fly to the carrier. The Lincoln crew is scrambling at the appearance of the COMPACFLT once they land since no one was prepared for him to join them. They get settled in their rooms before Maverick meets the team in the ready room. His eyes scan over all twelve aviators, his kids as Ice would say, and tries to give them the words to believe in themselves before he picks his team. Even after their conversation the night before, he can see Bradley’s surprise and confusion when he calls his name. He’s not sure he’ll ever get over the fact he caused his kid to have self-confidence issues, but he’s hoping by letting go like Ice suggested, that Bradley will start to believe in himself more. 

The next day they launch with no problem, and Mav knows that Bradley will have a problem with flying so close to the ocean. Ever since he learned how Goose died, how Mav had to hold him in the ocean for however long it took for the Coast Guard to find them - Mav honestly has no clue how long it really was despite Ice giving them a vague idea one year - Bradley doesn’t do well with the ocean. He can hear his kid’s heavy breathing and just prays that Bradley won’t overthink and will just fly. He keeps an eye out his canopy on him as they fly until they’re in attack formation and he can no longer see him. 

He can tell that the SAMs freak Bradley out even more; he’s not sure if Bradley’s had to experience them before or not, but he’s just praying his kid will stop thinking. He speeds up on instinct knowing the bandits will move to defend as soon as the tomahawks hit. He hears over control tower coms that Bradley is falling behind. Shit Roo. Stop thinking. He doesn’t say anything until he gets confirmation that the bandits have changed course, but Bradley doesn’t answer. 

He hears Payback try as they navigate the course, and then command gives another update. Fanboy tries next hearing how close the bandits are to intercept, and Payback chimes in again. Come on kid, Mav thinks before he hears it whispered across the coms. “Talk to me dad.” He knows Bradley’s not talking to Goose, even though that’s what everyone else probably thinks, so he answers, knowing Bradley needs it to come home. 

“Come on kid, you can do it. Don’t think, just do!” He whispers it back in the same voice and prays it works. It’s a half a second before he hears Payback telling Roo not to go that fast and it makes him proud. “That’s it kid, that’s it.” He prays it’s the encouragement he needs to keep going. He needs Bradley to come home. 

---

The mission is a success in the Navy’s eyes; they pulled off both miracles despite one deadeye laser. Ice however feels like his world ended the minute Maverick was shot down. He knew despite Cyclone ordering the other three back that Bradley wouldn’t listen. He knew there was no way his kid was leaving his dad behind. Ice was pissed when Cyclone wouldn’t let Jake launch to cover them though, so to keep from taking over the mission, knowing he was too close to it, he stepped out of the control tower. 

He has no idea how long he’s standing out at the railing – Daggers three and four both landing and both pilots trying to get Jake out of his plane to no avail - before Warlock calls him back in. When he enters, he feels his heart restart hearing that Bradley is supersonic in an F-14. The only way that was possible is if his husband was with him. He doesn’t know what condition they’re in, but he knows with certainty that they are coming home. 

This time he doesn’t wait for Cyclone to decide to launch Jake; he orders it himself. Jake is the only one ready to go up, all the others having disembarked when Phoenix and Payback landed. He sends Hondo out to ready the crew and he steps out to the railing once more. Hondo points in his general direction, and Jake’s eyes meet his. He gives him a nod and a salute, Jake returning them before he is off. If Mav is right about him, Jake will do anything possible to get Bradley home. 

Ice returns to the tower to listen and watch. Bradley manages to connect the radio at the worst possible time. Hearing Mav tell Bradley to eject, hearing the fear in his kid’s voice, hearing that they can’t eject – Ice doesn’t think there’s another pain imaginable. All eyes are on him as they listen though, so he relies on all his Navy years to keep his ice-cold exterior in place. Jake’s voice coming through, telling them he’ll see them on deck, almost brings Ice to his knees. He gives everyone in the control tower a nod before he is out and heading down to the deck. He’ll be damned if he’s not greeting his boys as soon as they’re free of the cockpit. 

Luckily for him, no one pays him any attention as they’re too busy preparing for a crash landing once Jake is out of the way. Ice sees him practically scrambling from his plane and it makes him smile knowing he would be the same way if the roles were reversed. He watches Mav land the F-14, albeit roughly, and the crew races around putting out flames. He sees medical rushing towards them along with all the Daggers. He takes his time, watching Bradley and Mav climb out, but he does push his way through. He makes it to his husband first, who is just stepping away from Hondo. 

“Admiral,” he smirks. 

“Get over here,” Ice rasps, pulling Maverick into his arms tight. “Don’t ever scare me like that again.” 

“You don’t have to worry about that. Retirement, remember?” 

Ice pulls back in surprise and Mav just smiles at him. They’d talked about it some the other night after they got home, but Ice wasn’t sure Mav was serious. Before he can question him any further, Bradley is pushing through the crowd yelling “Dad.” 

Ice steps to the side and Bradley launches at Maverick hugging him tight despite the grunts they both let out. Ice knows they have at minimum harness bruises, so he makes a note to get them down to the med bay as soon as they disentangle from each other. Mav pulls back first cupping Bradley’s cheeks whispering a quiet “thank you,” that Bradley murmurs back before they’re hugging again. He sees Jake standing off to the side watching them, and Ice makes a note to check on him later. 

He eventually separates his husband and son and marches them both to med bay, Jake trailing behind. “Seresin, you stay with Bradley. Make sure he doesn’t escape doctor’s orders.” 

“Pops,” Bradley whines, causing Jake to whip his eyes up between them. 

“Don’t start with me Bradley. Again, you’re too much like your dad and I can only babysit one of you at the moment.” 

“Rude,” Maverick grunts from his side, causing Ice to just scoff at him and push him further into the room. He’ll get a full report on Bradley later, but Maverick is his concern at the moment, especially with it being his second ejection in a month. He proceeds to inform the nurses of that, causing Mav to roll his eyes, before he strips the flight suit free. 

Bradley spends six hours in med bay, Jake making sure he’s stay in bed. Mav was just in the bed beside him, so Ice could’ve kept an eye on them both, but Bradley was secretly glad Jake had stayed. Bradley had a mild concussion, had broken his collarbone in two places and had severe bruising across his ribs and chest. Mav also had a concussion, had cracked a few ribs, had severe bruising on top of the bruises that hadn’t healed from his last ejection, along with a slight case of hypothermia from laying in the snow for an undetermined amount of time. 

He ended up staying in med bay overnight. If Ice hadn’t practically ordered Bradley to go shower, eat and rest, he would’ve stayed with them. The next morning though, Bradley was back by their side, with all of their bags ready to catch the transport home. Ice was already working on leave papers for the entire squad, knowing they all needed some time to heal, even the ones who hadn’t flown the mission. He was able to grant them all six weeks, and he was only slightly surprised when Mav followed through and submitted his retirement papers once home. 

It might’ve taken a suicide mission and a health scare to get them where they were, but their family was complete once more. They might’ve had a whole lot more of talking to do, but Bradley was home; Mav was home, and Ice couldn’t be more grateful. 

[frost-queen]

Wrong side of paradise // part 3 (Reader x Steve Harrington)

Forever tag: @missmelodramatic, @theletterhart, @alex--awesome--22, @elllie-does-the-posts, @floatlosers, @merlieve, @queen-of-books, @glimmering-darling-dolly, @denkisclown, @wildieflower, @meyocoko, @bubblybrianna, @justanothercoco @idkwhatmyusernam,  @subjecta13-thefangirl Tag list: @calpurnia2002, @gleefulleve, @shireentapestry, @mess-in-side, @farfromjustordinary, @manuosorioh, @mrsjaderogers, @pandoraneverland, @thxliaaa, @heyyimmisunderstood, @ginnupp, @ladyfallonavenger,@logibearhockey1, @lovesicksofi, @rainbowpr1sm, @untoldshortsofthefandoms​, @amaliarosewood (I couldn’t find 2 or 3 tags, be sure to have it on that people can tag you!)

Summary: Pulled into the upside down will your secret finally be outed? A journey of guilt and regret ahead as one ventures into the deepest darkness. Will you be saved or consumed by Vecna? 

< part 1 & part 2  & part 4  & part 5 >

“Y/n!” – Steve’s voice died out scraping his throat from force. Robin shot up, the boat rocking wildly making Steve stumble down on Eddie. – “No, no…no this can’t be happening.” – Robin panicked, patting her hands against her head. – “Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit!” – Robin cried out her voice getting louder by each word. Steve got up wobbly with the help of Eddie. He grabbed Robin by her wrists, pulling her hands down to stop herself from hitting. – “What are you talking about?” – Steve called out hoarse. Robin’s gaze went to Steve suddenly standing still. 

Her mind was spinning. A thousand words ready to be expressed by her mouth but she had to stay quiet. She promised you. Even when it would be a great time to tell him, she couldn’t break the promise. – “I can’t.” – Robin answered holding back the urge to spill a million other words. Steve widened his eyes, grabbing tight onto her arms. – “Robin!” – He shouted, not messing around. Robin squeaked loud when Steve pushed her closer to the edge. Her back arching as it hovered over the dark water. 

Eddie took a hold of Steve’s elbow, pulling a stop to him. – “Steve!” – Eddie called out. – “Y/n is under so stop whining and get your diving ass down there and bloody save her!” – Eddie lost control over his temper. Robin chuckled amusingly at Eddie’s outburst. She rarely saw him scold Steve like that.

“Robin! You better tell me what is going on with you and Y/n before I lose my GODDAMN MIND!” – he shook her roughly like a ragdoll. Eddie pulled his hands away. Robin screamed as she fell backwards into the water. – “Steve enough!” – Nancy called out, leaning over the edge with a helping hand. Robin spitted some water out, her jacket floating up. Robin swam up to the boat, clamping onto the edge. Steve grunted loud, setting himself off the edge. 

Robin screamed it out falling back as the boat rocked firm. Robin called it out in agony, splashing the water to out her frustration. – “Robin give me your hand.” – Nancy asked offering it to her. Robin moved her legs slowly in the water to stay above the surface. A quizzable expression on her face. Eddie’s eyes widened as he could make out what the face meant. – “Hey! Don’t even think about it.” – he ordered her with a firm point of his finger. Robin took a deep breath, letting her head go under water. She disappeared, rolling over under water. 

She started to swim down after Steve who she saw swimming down below. Close to the portal. Eddie clenched his hands, shouting in frustration that no one had common sense. He grabbed a flashlight with a loud huff. – “What are you doing?” – Nancy questioned. Eddie pinched his nose tight, dropping into the water. Water splashed up, getting Nancy in the process.

Steve got sucked through the portal. One second, he was still holding his breath under water. The next he laid on his back catching his breath. Steve rolled over to his side, pulling himself up by his elbow. He gasped seeing the torched gloomy scenery. Beside him laid a wreckage of the boat. The lake clearly had been drained here. There was no sign of water around. – “Y/n!” – Steve called out, hands around his mouth. The air was thick as it caused him to breath harder. – “Y/n where are you?” – he shouted as loud as he could. 

His voice rasping into his throat. He exhaled long, turning sharply around. There was nothing, not for a mile. No sign of any other living person. – “Y/n! Where are you?” – the emotion in his voice took over. He felt his energy drain itself from his body. Sink down to his feet where it would disappear into the ground. Steve fell to his knees, worn out. – “Y/n… please…” – he said sniffing loud, wiping his cheek. – “Why didn’t I stay with you? or ordered you to get on the boat.” – his thoughts clear with regret. His face fell into the palms of his hands, wishing he could turn back time.

Robin gasped loud, clawing her hands and feet in the air, thinking she was still swimming. It took her a second to realize she wasn’t in the water anymore. She rolled over, getting on her hands and knees. Her fist pressed deep into the soil as she regretted it all. – “Robin!” – She heard loud. She flung back, landing on her bottom when Steve stormed over. – “You better tell me exactly what is going on, or I swear…” – he called out, Robin crawling back to maintain her distance. 

Steve readied his fist. Never in a million years would he turn violent to Robin, but she was testing his nerve. Robin shook her head with fear, crawling back as fast as she could. Steve kept approaching her, demanding to know the truth. Robin pressed her lips together. Why couldn’t she just tell him? Why was her promise to you so overwhelming. Why did it chain her into maintaining it when clearly it would be better for everyone if they knew. That it was Vecna that took you. That you were probably somewhere tied up waiting for your eyes to gauche out. Your limbs to break and become a grey lifeless corpse. 

Robin came to a stop, pressing her hands against her ears. The thought of you as a grey corpse haunted her. She squeezed her eyes tight, bringing her knees to her chest. Steve was about to grab her, pulling her up when Eddie interfered. – “Steve stop!” – he shouted, having a hold of his shirt. – “This isn’t Robin’s fault!” – he said trying to reason with him.

Eddie looked over his shoulder, hearing Robin sob loud. – “I’m sorry… sorry…” – she cried out. She lifted her head up, cheeks stained with tears. Her hands folded together in a prayer on her knees. Steve moved his hands up when he tried to get closer to her, but Eddie wouldn’t let him. Steve made clear with gestures that he wasn’t going to hurt her. Eddie slowly let go watching Steve kneel in front of her. – “Sorry…” – Robin sobbed, her eyes filling with tears. – “Robin… please…” – Steve begged, placing his hands on her knees. 

“It’s… It’s Vecna…” – she cried out, breaking her promise. Her body trembled a part of her disgusted with herself. Another relieved to finally say the words. Steve slowly closed his eyes, exhaling deep. – “She’s next… he wants her… I’m sorry… I wasn’t good enough to protect her.” – Robin said, guilt eating at her. Steve moved his hand behind her head, bringing her head closer to his. He took a deep breath, letting her forehead rest against his. A sign of forgiveness. 

He then kissed her forehead to seal it. Steve got up, turning to Eddie. – “I follow wherever you go.” – Eddie said determined. Eddie looked curiously down at the hand Steve had placed on his shoulder. Their eyes meeting each a different meaning. They nodded once.

“On your feet soldier!” – Eddie said aloud, walking up to Robin. Robin blinked confused, wiping some tears away. – “We march for war, and we need every good soldier we can get!” – Eddie stuck his hand out to her. Robin slowly placed her hand in his. Eddie closing the grip with a firm shake. He pulled her up to her feet, tilting her chin a bit up. Wanting to see determination in her eyes instead of grief. – “Not all is lost yet.” – Eddie recited from a long played D&D story he oversaw as master. 

“So pick up your weapons and fight! Fight! Fight for all that is good in this world.” – He roared out, looking behind him to Steve. He was speaking to all, even himself. – “We march into the castle and kill the beast!” – Eddie punched his fist into the air. – “Or… wound him? I’m not sure how well we stand against him so uhm let’s just try to hurt him.” – he added nervously, losing a bit of his charm. Robin wiped her face dry, tightening her jaw. 

Steve nodded hastily pushing his own feelings to the back of his mind. Now was not the time to dwell on the matter. To curse at himself for not seeing it. For not figuring it out. The fear in your eyes at the house. The shaken tenseness. The wedge between your friendship. All turned their heads hearing wood crack. Nancy stood ready with a broken off oar in her hand. – “We’ll need weapons!”

Air filled your lungs as you got plunged out of the portal. Landing hard on your back. You only had a second to catch your breath when that familiar tug was present. It tugged once on your ankle, dragging your back a bit over the drained lake. Your eyes stood wide with horror as you tried to feel around for any grip. There was none as you lifted your head up. You screamed as the dark slithering vein around your ankle pulled hard. 

Your head fell back, smacking the ground with the back. Your screams died away as you were rapidly dragged over the dried up lake. Hair catching dirt, nails scraping over the soil, leaving a faint trail behind. Bringing your hands up, you tried to turn. Twist so that you could escape his clutches. You managed to turn on your side, arms above your head dragging over the dirt. The soil got muddier. Staining your clothing, hair, hands, and face. In the distance a loud rumble that announced your doom. 

There was no escaping it now. Vecna had you now and there would be no one around to save you. Not Robin, not Steve nor Eddie. Tears ran down your face as you saw the horizon from where you came from disappear. No turning back now.

The pull on your ankle got stronger, more desperate as your speed increased. You dragged everything along on your path. Leaves, dirt, mud, twigs. Any filth that laid on the poisoned ground of the upside down. It was all hazy, you had no orientation of where you were, compared to the downside up. The real world. Suddenly you came to a firm stop, a sudden gasp escaping your lips. 

You lifted your head up to look around. Nothing but darkness. Then between the trees stood a tall dark figure. You panicked feeling the vein slither higher up your leg. You pulled your upper body up, trying to untie the vein around your leg. It was strong and slimy. Your hands slipped away, unable to get a grip. It rolled around your leg like a snake strapping his prey. You screamed another vein strapping around your wrist. It pulled you down with one brutal tug. Your head smacking against the ground, leaving for you to see stars. 

Another vein wrapped around your wrist, making you pull against it. It was no use as it had you in his hold. You started to panic, tossing, and turning to get them off you. The veins continued to swirl around you, higher and higher. Another one went around your throat making you gasp for air. – “Y/n.” – you heard, your name dragging on long. You squinted your eyes brief, working against the veins. – “You are mine.” – the voice was deep. Deep down you knew it was him, Vecna. Your voice faded away as the world around you turned black, consumed by veins that swallowed you whole.

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

Read more of my fics on my Masterlists!

[callmemana]

Arms Wide Open, Catch Me If I Fall Masterlist:

Robert ‘Bob’ Floyd x Amanda ‘Birdie’ Hallett

Warnings: angst & fluff

Before the urgent mission and being sent back to Top Gun, Bob had a girlfriend. The key word being ‘had.’ When he initially received the orders back, he thought of two outcomes; one he’d get orders afterwards to go to another base & 2 he’d die during. He couldn’t put that on her, his Bird. So, before the long distance relationship could happen, he ended it. He didn’t want her to have to morn him if he did die while flying this mission, so he decided to break her heart. He didn’t tell her why, she understood the risks of his job, she too was a pilot. But, after the mission was successful, he turned from his happy go lucky self the others began to love, to a gloomy, depressed state. The other aviators pressed him for weeks before he finally gave in and told them about his ‘Birdie’ and how he made a mistake. Hearing a little bit of Bob’s story, they started to do anything and everything to try and get orders for this ‘Birdie’ to San Diego. Will their meddling help mend these lovebirds?

1. If You Love Something, Set It Free

2. Before The Storm

3. Beautiful In Flight

4. Birdie’s Eye View

5. Home In The Sky (TW)

6. When You Bathe, Would You Call That A Bird Bath? (TW)

7. A Little Birdie Told Me

8. Birds Of A Feather

9. Caged Birds Don’t Sing

10. Isn’t That, Like, Cannibalism?

11. The Early Bird

12. Of Songbirds & Love

13. A Place I’ve Always Loved

14. Repeat My Song Back To Me

15. Beneath My Wings

16. Soaring Into My Open Arms

17. Landing On My Feet

18. Taking Flight

19. Two Birds, One Stone

20. Forever? Forever.

Meet Birdie:

Meet Cinco:

Meet Dragon:

Meet Lucky:

Meet Mouse:

Meet Spicy:

Meet Whiskey:

Forever 🏷️list: @switchbladedreamz @bayisdying @mrsjaderogers @dragon-kazansky @sweetlittlegingy @mtnofgrace

🏷️ list: @luckyladycreator2

[bayisdying]

A/N: this is two days late but oh well 🤷‍♀️ please enjoy. Also this is my first attempt at RPF. Might write more in the future.

Tagging the besties for the resties: @mrsjaderogers @gracespicybradshaw @dragon-kazansky @askmarinaandothers @callmemana @starlit-epiphany @callsignscupcake @breadsquash @kloofspeaks @ladylanera @roosterscockpit

-----

"Sorry I'm not there, I'm so proud of you babe. I'll see you soon."

Baylie smiled at her boyfriends text, yeah it sucked that their careers were both demanding. She could have quit nursing once they had gotten more serious, but her mother had taught her to never rely on a man. Even if that man was very sexy, talented, and perfect. Plus nursing had been her calling since she was a little girl. She wasn't giving that dream up easily. So she'd take the time apart, the FaceTime dates, and the random flights to Atlanta when she had the weekend off to see him for not long enough.

It was Florence Nightingale's birthday, aka Nurse's Day. May 12th, the day people celebrated those who followed in Florence's footsteps and became nurses in their own right.

Her phone buzzed again,

"Have a good shift today babe, go save lives Nightingale."

It made her laugh, when they had first started dated a little over three years ago, he had called her Nightingale in case anyone hacked his phone they wouldn't know who he was texting such flirty texts to. Since they'd gone public a year ago during the Top Gun Maverick premieres, he didn't have to worry about that anymore. The world knew Danny Ramirez was a taken man, and his Nightingale was the one.

The shift started smoothly, the hand off from morning shift was as perfect as it could have been.

An hour into the shift her phone buzzes in her back pocket and when she gets a chance she checks it. It's a video from Danny. One of the first times they'd gone on a date and he'd taken her ice skating. They'd fallen more than they skated so the video was alot of fails and laughing. It brought a smile to her face but the caption was the best part

"I fall for you a little more everyday."

She just shakes her head and goes back to work leaving her phone at the desk this time. When she finally has time to sit back down and chart she sees two new messages.

The first was a collage of pictures from their very first offical date. He'd taken plenty of pictures of her sitting across the table from him.

"From the first date, I knew we had something special."

The second was another video, this time one she'd taken during the filming of Top Gun, he was working out and well she couldn't resist him.

"I work out everyday so I can hold your hand like a man."

She snorts at that one which causes her coworkers to throw glances her way.

The whole shift she gets text like that from him. Photos, videos, and even a link to "Stay Stay Stay" on Spotify. Baylie loved to say that was their song, that they were in it for the long haul. At the end of her shift her feet hurt, her bladder was full, and she was tired. Her phone buzzed with one last text.

"Meet me where it all began..."

Her mind reeled, he was in town? Had he been in town the whole day? Why hadn't he told her that?

She makes her way to the Pier, where the coffee shop they'd first met was situated. It was late at night and eerily quiet but she noticed lights on in the little cafe. She walks up and on the door is a sign

"Come on in Nightingale."

She opens the door and notices that the normal table centerpieces have been replaced with vases of yellow roses, her favorite. Nobody seems to be there but there's a note on the counter.

"I love you. -Danny."

"How'd I do?"

Baylie jumps as Danny appears from behind the counter.

"Jesus fucking Christ Danny." She says with a hand over her heart. "I just about had a heart attack."

He laughs and steps around the counter to kiss her.

"When did you get here?" She asks.

"Flew in this morning."

"Why? Is everything okay?"

He tucks a piece of her hair behind her ear, "Everything is more than fine, I'm with my girl now." He leans in for another soft kiss.

"So you spent all day planning this?"

"I did, all for you Bay, I even have presents."

Her eyes light up, usually in relationships she hated when men spoiled her, but with Danny it was different. He wasn't buying her love, he was buying her things because he simply loved her.

He pulls out a tiny box with a bow on it, "Happy Birthday Nightingale."

She laughs but opens the box anyways, inside is a pin in the shape of an apple. She looks up at him with confusion in her eyes.

"I figured that might keep the doctors away." He jokes and she punches his arm for it.

"But while that might just keep the doctors away, I have something that will keep all the men away." He gets down on one knee and pulls out a velvet box.

"Danny..."

"Shhh let me do this, Baylie Steele, when we met in this very coffee shop over three years ago I had no idea that the pretty girl who sat at my table would mean so much to me. You have changed my whole view on life and the world. You are a constant light, and I can't imagine my life without you by my side. So please." His voice cracks a little. "Will you marry me?"

"Of course I will!"

"Wait did you say yes?"

"Yes you idiot." She teases, and he puts the ring on her finger.

"Guys she said yes!" He yells out to seemingly nobody, until the door to the kitchen opens at in walks out Miles, Grace, Alana, and Glen. Plus her own mother pops up from behind the counter having recorded the whole thing for Danny.

"You all are here?"

"Duh! I wasn't missing this for the world babe!" Alana says coming over with Grace to hug their best friend.

"Me either, I had to witness all this cuteness." Grace adds.

Baylie hugs everyone, squeezing her mom extra tight.

"Now let's go celebrate the future Mr. and Mrs. Ramirez!" Glen exclaims.

The group heads out locking up the cafe for the owners. Danny and Baylie hang back a little holding hands and smiling.

"This was perfect Danny. I love you."

"I love you too Nightingale."

-----

[whatislovevavy]

Update for Learning From The Best

Hey Barbies, just a few things:

I had to do a major storyline skeleton-flipping endeavor for about three of the future chapters for Learning From The Best so the next chapter will be up sometime this week. I'm sorry for the wait, but the muses called to me and I had to answer. I'm letting y'all know since it's been about two weeks since I last updated the story.

I'm starting work in a lab on campus for my final project as a senior on August 1st so updates might be a bit slow since the school year is starting to ramp up for me.

My ask box is open for drabbles, questions, requests involving Learning From The Best and Mustang :)

@marvel-hotchner @nemesis729 @a-lil-bit-nuts @justagirllivinginaghibliworld @mizzzpink @themusingofagothicsoul @mayhemmanaged @sebsxphia @potato-girl99981  @a-beaverhausen @withahappyrefrain @hangmans-wingman  @callmemana @joalslibrary @peachiicherries @mrsjaderogers @entertainmentgal8 @jkbindigo11 @princess76179 @clancycucumber230 @teacupsandtopgun @chaoticassidy @superskittles @cherrycola27 @nancyxsorbet @h-ngm-ns @emma8895eb @djs8891 @novastories @urmom-999 @taytaylala12 @zombicupcake3 @catsficrecs @abaker74 @genius2050-deactivated20230617 @hangmanshoney @caidi-paris @i-wanna-be-your-muse @shara-ne @memeorydotcom

[whiskeyswriting]

About Me

Born in the 80s and raised in the 90s, I am just a millennial that just wants to escape reality every now and then. Legal assistant by day. Fanfiction writer by night.

Initially, I was only a fanfiction reader. Slowly, I’ve come to learn to appreciate writing it too. Throughout my life, I’ve developed a habit of daydreaming while I go through my day. I can’t sleep without creating a story in my head.

While I am currently focused on the Top Gun fandom, I plan to expand my list to shows and movies I enjoy. Maybe they'll be short blurbs or moodboards. So what fandoms do I consider myself to be a part of? Here's a quick list (in no particular order):

Top Gun

MCU/Marvel Comics

DC Comics/DCEU

Criminal Minds

Stranger Things

Star Wars

Mission Impossible

Yellowstone

[stargazing15]

A dad Jake blurb

Because dad Jake, I don't think there is any other explanation necessary.

Sorry, my brain can't come up with a title

Enjoy!

***

He was proud, so fucking proud of himself.

Jake had the week off and came to you with the proposal to take care of everything to lift some weight of your shoulders. Of course typical Jake, to gain some much deserved mommy & daddy time with a big smirk on his face.

So you made your husband the list, oh yeah the list with everything: grocery shopping, your daughter's schedule (from kindergarten to toddler gymnastics and what not to forget to bring with you), cleaning, ironing and not to forget the cooking. Maybe you were going to take over the ironing, just to keep all the clothes safe from burns.

Back to the present. He was walking from his car to the gate of the school, flaunting with your daughter on one hand and her backpack in his other. Sunglasses on, a tight white t-shirt showing off the muscles underneath and his dog tags visible. Jake had always liked the attention his looks attracted, but only yours and your daughter's mattered to him.

He flexed his armmuscles now and then so that every boy in your daughter's class knew not to mess with her, Jake was making sure of that, she has a strong daddy. All the 4 year olds were looking at him with their mouths open, so did their moms.

Now it was official, your daughter was holding the title of kid with the hottest coolest dad.

"He is eyecandy." "Look at him." "I am so going to get a divorce and mark him." "I call dibbs on him."

The comments stroked his ego, but he didn't care about them anymore, so he ignored them, giving all his attention to the little girl holding his hand.

After his little catwalk moment with your daughter, though Jake crumbled and got on his knees to hug the little girl and wave her goodbye.

He was proud, very proud, he brought her finally to kindergarten by himself. He could do it, everything.

"Jake!" Oh, that is a familiar voice.

There were you, did you forget he was bringing her to school?

"Forget something?" He quickly imagined the bring to kindergarten-list en checked off everything.

"Nope sweets. Everything has been taken care off."

You bring forth the lunchbox you were hiding behind your back. "Lunchbox?"

"Oh. Here sweetheart, dad forgot your lunchbox, good thing we still have mommy. Give her a kiss and go conquer school. Have fun." He said while putting the lunchbox in her backpack.

"Bye mommy, bye daddy!" And off she was.

"He is married?" "That's his wife?"

"How lucky am I that I have you? I love you sweets."

"Very lucky, love you too Jakey." He kissed you in front of all the moms, he kissed you with so much love and passion that you were already looking forward to the mommy & daddy time later today.

"Ew mommy and daddy!" You both heard your daughter scream from the playground.

Jake was a proud man, very proud that he can call himself your husband.

***

Taglist: @mrsjaderogers @bradleybeachbabe @cycbaby @mavrellover91 @iamdannyday @rhirhikingston @luckyladycreator2 @xoxabs88xox @jstarr86

Tagform

[ohtobeleah]

The Chaos-Verse Mega Masterlist

A mega Chaos-Verse Masterlist.

Chronological Order Of Events For Both Series //

Summary: During a special detachment that brings Lieutenants Bradshaw and Seresin back to North Island—they both come face to face with the women in their lives who alternately make them better versions of themselves. Lieutenant Chaos Kazanksy and Lieutenant Commander Seresin.

***~***~***~

Chaos // Bradley Bradshaw x Best Friend!reader.

Summary: Being called back to TopGun should have been the number one thing on your mind. But Bradley Bradshaw sure made it hard to keep your priorities in check. He made it hard to do just about anything. Including but not limited to saying his life. (Season One Complete)

To Have & To Hold // Jake Seresin x Wife!reader.

Summary: Jake Hangman Seresin had been called a lot of things. But a good husband? Wasn’t one of those things. Being called back to TopGun has him trying all over again to win over the love of his life. His ex not yet divorced wife. You. Lieutenant Commander Y/n Seresin. (Complete)

***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~

To Have & To Hold Tags: @justanothermagicalsara @alexsisrebekah @stinkyjax @starkleila @luckyladycreator2 @love2write2626 @shanimallina87 @dempy @mintellaine @kiarabellerum31 @abaker74 @shadowsndaisies @haworldwidefunnyguy @peakascum @ssprayberrythings @averyhotchner @itsemohours @shawnsblue

Chaos Tags: @lyannaredbird​ @luckyladycreator2​ @skagelynn​ @teacupdreams​ @the-winter-marvel33reblogs​ @mrsjaderogers​​ @katieshook02​​ @thescarletknight2014​​ @justanothermagicalsara​​ @4ngelicb4byy @percysaidnever​​ @puriini​​ @luckylexie​​ @is-this-a-febreze-commercial @shrimping-for-all @fayethefairy @lonelywitchv2​​ @mizzzpink @unforgettwble​​ @callmemana​​ @lemoonandlestars​​ @mulletmcghee​​ @redqueeen99​​ @bucky-barmes​​ @mak-32​​ @fivsecondsflat​​ @loveless-simp​ @bradleysgirl @mintellaine​ @hannabritta​ @nemtodd-barnes1923​ @xoxabs88xox @baju69 @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @shanimallina87 @abaker74

[callsign-joyride]

Fluffy Fall Fantasy, 8 with Bradley and Jake?

It's Nice To Have A Friend | Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw & Jake "Hangman" Seresin

Summary: Bradley and Jake comfort you after you have a bad day at work.

Content warnings: Men being trash (not Bradley or Jake, though), hurt-comfort

Prompt: Breaking down mid hug because they just needed this so much

This was written for my Fluffy Fall Fantasy event. Feel free to send in requests!

You loved working on base. Admittedly, the job that you got wasn’t the best because of the lack of openings and your “barely-there” qualifications, but you still loved being there every day. Well, mostly every day. You held a secretary-like position with Cyclone and the other admirals, which meant that you were the one who was mainly in charge of scheduling things for them, and you rarely messed something up. Cyclone must’ve been having a particularly bad day as he nearly threw your office door open and looked at you with a scowl on his face.

“You double-booked me at three, and I’ve gotta pick my son up from football at six,” he said. You always tried to be extra nice to him on days like this.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t realize-,”

“Right. No surprise there since it seems like you’ve forgotten a lot of things recently. Consider this strike one.”

“What?”

“If it happens again, you know, the forgetting things, that’ll be your last warning.”

You stood there slightly dumbfounded as he continued to lecture you about “forgetting things”. In reality, he hadn’t emailed you his calendar and you had no idea what was going on half the time. This type of thing never happened with Warlock or Iceman, they were always on top of their game, but Cyclone was different. A part of you always wondered if it was because he knew that his marriage was failing, but the other part refused to question any of it. 

Tears were brimming your eyes as he left the room, and you sat at your desk trying to get his schedule figured out again. Hangman and Rooster walked by your office just as you were finishing getting the meetings rescheduled. You hardly realized that you were borderline sobbing until Rooster gently plucked you out of your chair and wrapped his arms around you. Hangman joined in on the hug, finally giving you a sense of comfort in the hard day.

“What happened?” Hangman asked. You asked Rooster to close the door before taking a sip of your water and wiping your tears with a tissue. 

“Cyclone pretty much threatened to have me fired for ‘forgetting things’. I double-booked him and that’s what started it all, but I wouldn’t have double-booked him in the first place if he sent me his personal calendar. God, I’m just so fucking pissed. He didn’t send me his calendar but it’s my fault that I had to schedule those meetings for him.”

“Amelia has a few classes with his son. Apparently, he’s in the middle of a messy divorce. He had an affair and she caught him through the bank statements,” Rooster said.

“Amelia… told you all of that?” Hangman asked.

“No. She told me that Cyclone and his wife are getting a divorce. Warlock told me and Mav the rest.”

You couldn’t help but let out a laugh at that. There was something so sweetly ironic about Warlock being the one to spill the truth behind Cyclone’s divorce. Rooster and Hangman were happy that the news seemed to cheer you up at least a little bit, but they stayed in your office for as long as they could without getting in trouble.

“Hey, you wanna come to karaoke at The Hard Deck tonight?” Rooster asked.

“Sure.”

After a few drinks, you and Phoenix hit the stage, singing Bad Blood (Taylor’s Version), and it was only Rooster and Hangman who knew that the rendition of the song was secretly about Cyclone.

Tag list:

@littlebadariell @cycbaby @luckyladycreator2 @idontcare-11 @blue-aconite @maverick-wingman @shawty-fenty @littlemisstopgun @rosiahills22 @katieshook02 @justanothermagicalsara @caitsymichelle13 @smoothdogsgirl @adoringsebstan @cherrycola27 @alexxavicry @mrsjaderogers @mak-32 @thefandomimagines @tallrock35 @caatheeriinee07 @bradshawseresinbabe @atarmychick007 @3sriracha @genius2050 @halstead-severide-fan @withakindheartx @Lolliepops2501 @avengersfan25

Taglist form (Google form, email is not asked)

[dragon-kazansky]

Happy Ice day

Happy Birthday Val 🥰💕

Iceman x Reader

Masterlist

It's Iceman's birthday, but he hasn't mentioned it once. That doesn't mean all his dear friends don't know.

@mtnofgrace @mrsjaderogers @cycbaby @callsignscupcake @askmarinaandothers @bayisdying @kiichirose

♡♡♡

From the moment he woke up he didn't say a word. You watched him rise from the bed and head into the bathroom to start his morning routine. You could only sigh softly as the door clicked shut behind him.

It's his birthday, but he hadn't mentioned it at all. That didn't mean you would forget about it.

Your phone pings beside you on the nightstand so you roll over and pick it up. It's Ron, or Slider as he's known, Tom's old pal and RIO during their flying days.

Sli: We still on?

You: Still on!

You put the phone back when you hear Tom come back into the bedroom. He runs his eyes slightly and goes to pick up his glasses from his bedside table. You chuckle as he puts them on and looks at you.

"That's better," he smiles.

"Very handsome."

He chuckles and then reaches for his robe. While he puts it on you get out of bed and make a start to your day. Everything was going to be perfect for him, whether he noticed it or not.

Breakfast was made and ready for him by the time he came downstairs all dressed and ready for his day. He sat down in his usual seat and thanked you, smiling as he did so. You smile back and join him, bringing over some juice for the pair of you.

"Tom?"

He looks up at you.

"Ron and Pete are going to be at The Hard Deck later. Bradley is going to play a little piano, so I hear. Would you like to go?" You ask, prompting him.

Tom smiles.

"Do you want to go?" He asks.

"I would like to, yes."

You smile, knowing you got him. That look in his eyes gives him away.

"Then we shall go."

Tom helps you tidy up after breakfast and you head upstairs to get his present, which you will hide in your bag until you get to the bar.

When you arrive, Slider and Mav are already there. Ron and his wife are sitting at a table in the corner, while Maverick is chatting up Penny behind the bar. Rooster is sitting at the piano playing the keys gently. You lead Ice into the room and wave at the Kerner's as you approach their table.

Tom pulls out a chair for you and sit down. Ice sits next to you. Looking around the room, Ice takes note of the lack of customers in the bar. In fact, the only customers are them and a few of the Top Gun students.

Ice leans in close to you.

"What are we doing here?" He asks, narrowing his eyes slightly. You just smile in response.

Mav and Penny come over. Penny places a tray of drinks on the table and takes a seat beside you. Everyone reaches for their chosen drink, Mav having already ordered for you and Ice.

"To the birthday boy!" Mav grins.

"Happy birthday!!" Everyone cheers.

Ice sits in silent shock. His eyes drift to you who is smiling at him sweetly.

"My birthday?"

You nod your head.

"You didn't think I forgot, did you?" You ask him.

"We never do anything for my birthday," he tells you. It's true. He doesn't really celebrate it. You'll get him a cake that you'll share at home, but that's about it.

Ice looks at you with gentle eyes.

"You wanted to come here because you planned this."

You nod.

"It was my idea. I reached out and asked if you had plans, when they told me no, I thought we could all surprise you for drinks and a sing song with Bradshaw," Ron explains.

Tom nods his head softly. You reach out and take his face in your hands when you see tears threatening to spill. He smiles at you as you turn his face to look at you.

"What am I going to do with you?" He asks, whispering with a smile.

"You could kiss me."

He chuckles and does just that. He leans in and steals a kiss.

"Cheers to Iceman!" Maverick grins.

Everyone raises their glass.

"Cheers!"

Iceman chuckles as he wipes his eyes from under his glasses. You lean into his side with a smile and put your drink back onto the table. You reach into your bag for his present.

"I got you something."

"You didn't have to do that," he says.

"I wanted to. It's your birthday and I'm very lucky I get to share it with you. So, I got you something."

You hand over the present. Ice takes it from you and unwrap it with care.

Now the tears actually fall.

In his hand Ice holds a photograph. You're both much younger in it. Maverick and Slider are there, Wolfman in the background. Hollywood poking his head into frame.

Some years ago there was a reunion for Tom's Top Gun class. It had been a few years since their time at Top Gun, and Ice had married you in between that time, but everyone was pretty much the same.

Ice looks up at you.

"Where did you get this?" He asks.

"Penny has a surprising amount of Navy photos," you chuckle. "She found this and contacted me, thinking you might want it. Knowing this wasn't a photo you have back home, I told her I would be happy to take it. So it's my gift to you," you tell him.

Ice wraps an arm around you and pulls you into him, pressing a kiss to your cheek. You chuckle as you wrap your arms around him.

"I love you," he whispers in your ear.

You smile.

"I love you too, Tom. Always and forever."

Celebrating his birthday with his few close friends became tradition after that, and that photo now sits in his office among his others on full display for him to look back on every year.

You made every one very special and he loved that.