#cinco x hangman

[whiskeyswriting]

Wildest Dreams

{ An AU fic for Hangman x Cinco }

To read the Squad’s reaction to finding out the truth: check out: Spicy’s call to Jake; Lucky’s FaceTime call; and Birdie’s Anger

******

“Push! Push! Push!” Alana could hear what the doctor was telling her but the exhaustion of the last ten hours made it hard to do what she needed. Nobody was there to help her. Then again she went into labor two months earlier than expected.

Baylie and Mickey were deployed. 

Grace and Bradley had gone on a second honeymoon.

“One more push and you can rest.”

SEVEN TO EIGHT MONTHS AGO

It has been a couple of months of secret hookups with Jake after he and his girlfriend, Sydney, had broken up. Having become friends after the uranium mission, Alana was there for Jake throughout his relationship with Sydney and eventually their breakup.

Neither had planned on getting together, but they did after a night of drinking with the rest of the Dagger Squad. It was just a one-time thing, they both agreed. Only that, it turned into friends with benefits. 

They managed to keep it a secret for a couple of months. The only time anyone suspected anything was going on between them was the night everything changed. The night of the Navy Awards.

Jake decided it would be best if they carpooled with some of the other members of the squad. So Alana made her way to the base and met up with Jake, Baylie, Mickey, Grace, and Bradley at the rec room. 

The girls are quick to hug her and have her spin in her dress. “Wow! You’re looking so beautiful!” Grace tells her.

“Got any plans for later? I’m happy to drop Mickey for you,” Baylie says winking.

Alana blushes. “It’s not too much?”

“It’s not enough. That dress will find you a husband. Hey, maybe some admiral or captain will scoop you up,” Baylie teases.

Jake ignores them and glances at his watch. “We should get going.” Bradley and Mickey each take their girl’s hand in theirs and lead the way to the limousine. Jake keeps his hand on Alana’s lower back.

Once they arrive at the venue, they all go their separate ways. Eventually, they are all seated together, as the majority of them would be receiving medals. The only ones at their table to not receive one were Alana and Grace.

The ceremony moves along pretty quickly and soon comes the drinking and dancing. Alana mostly sat and watched everyone. Jake had been chatting with Admiral Kazansky and Vice Admiral Simpson. His smile was huge when he returned. 

Instead of sitting, he offered Alana his hand so they could dance. The DJ had been playing a few upbeat songs in a row. As they danced and laughed, the music changed into a slow song. Dance With You by Brett Young begins to play and Alana moves to go sit down but Jake holds her hand. “Is one slow song going to kill you?”

“No. But people might get ideas.”

“Let them. We’re just two single friends enjoying a dance.”

“Right. Two single friends,” Alana repeats, her cheeks warm from embarrassment, thinking he would maybe officially ask her out.

After the song finished, they returned to the table, only to find their friends smirking at them. 

“What’s with the smirks?” Jake asks.

“You tell us,” Baylie replies.

“We’re just two single friends enjoying a party with drinks that the Navy is paying for,” Alana says quickly. “So tell, me again who do I bribe to get a shiny medal like that?” She teases in order to change the topic.

The evening soon becomes midnight and they all decide it’s time to go home to rest. The only ones to not go home were Jake and Alana. They headed to a downtown hotel to spend the night together. 

He said, "Let's get out of this town

Drive out of the city, away from the crowds"

I thought Heaven can't help me now

Nothing lasts forever

But this is gonna take me down

FIVE MONTHS AGO

She was pacing along her hallway as she waited for the timer to go off. Before she could hear the timer, her stomach betrays her. Alana runs to the bathroom, for the third time that morning, with intense waves of nausea hitting and she throws up into the toilet. 

Alana knew she had to tell Jake. She knew he deserved to know the truth. She recalled their last night together. It had been their most passionate night of pleasure for the both of them. When she woke up alone the next morning, there was a note on the pillow saying he’d see her later.

Hours later, he showed up at her house. He had gotten a call from Sydney. They were going to try and work things out and get back together again. Then he dropped the bomb: Sydney was a few months pregnant. After that day, Alana didn’t get many chances to talk to him, as he got deployed overseas. 

Say you'll remember me

Standing in a nice dress

Staring at the sunset, babe

Red lips and rosy cheeks

Say you'll see me again

Even if it's just in your wildest dreams, ah-ah, ha

Wildest dreams, ah-ah, ha

The timer rings and she looks at the tests. Three positive pregnancy tests were staring back at her. This wasn’t in her plan. Sure she wanted to be a mother. But she never wanted to be a single mother. She lets herself cry for a few minutes before going to get her phone and trying to call Jake. 

She calls and calls. No answer. She send him a few texts to please call her but they all say “Not Delivered”. 

The next person she calls is her physician, whom she asks to go in for an appointment for that day. Once the doctor confirmed that yes she is pregnant, Alana called out sick the next day. She didn’t have the luxury of just resting. She found herself spending more time throwing up than anything.

FOUR MONTHS AGO

She made it past her first trimester so she knew she needed to tell her friends. Alana scoured through Pinterest to get ideas but there were so many she couldn’t decide. But then she spotted a food-related one, just in time for her turn to host their next movie night.

The day passed by quickly and soon the two couples arrived for movie night. Bradley and Mickey kept trying to set her up with other pilots but she always turned them down. She knew no reasonable pilot would want to date a pregnant plus-size woman that was their superior.

Alana had the boxes of pizza and donuts ready. Her plan was to have Grace and Baylie each open one of the boxes. The squeals are loud and they both run to hug her. 

Immediately the questions come out. “Who’s the father? Does he know? Can I be the Daddy?”

Alana knew she didn’t want to lie to her best friends, but she couldn’t outright tell them it was Jake. Not before she got the chance to tell him. “It was some guy… He’s no longer in my life. He doesn’t know. I’ve tried calling and texting but I think he blocked me.”

“Thank goodness it isn’t Jake’s,” Baylie said. “That night at the awards I could have sworn you guys had something going on.”

“You two were basically eye fucking each other while you were dancing,” Bradley adds as he takes a bit of his pizza.

Alana chuckles. “Yeah. That would have been… something.”

Grace notices Alana nervously playing with her bracelet. ‘What if Jake is the dad…?’ She begins to wonder. She’s distracted as she thinks back to encounters or outings they all shared and how Jake and Alana behaved together.

“Earth to Grace! We were asking you what you think the baby would be and whose last name it should have.”

“I want it to be a little girl. Imagine all the dresses and bows we’ll buy her!” The girls are soon diving deep into talks of nursery themes, colors, and baby shower themes. 

TWO MONTHS AGO

The doctor, along with Alana, was surprised that she had actually lost some weight instead of gaining. It had happened before but it wasn’t as common as the weight gain. “I guess your little one is kickstarting your metabolism.”

“Yeah, I guess she is.”

“So do you already have a name picked out?”

“Samantha Belle.”

“That’s a beautiful name. I know I’ve asked you but any news from the father?”

“No. But I can give you the names of those I want in the room with me.”

Alana gives the doctor the names of Baylie and Grace, as well as their phone numbers.

When she gets to the base, Baylie is waiting for Alana in her office. “Hey, Bay! What’s going on?”

“I got my papers. Mickey and I both did. We’re getting deployed tomorrow. It’s for a few months. I…” she gets choked up. “Babe… I don’t know if we’ll be back in time for the baby.”

Alana shakes her head. “No. I can fight it. I can talk to Ice…” Her eyes fill with tears.

Baylie takes her hands in hers and gives them a squeeze. “I tried babe. I even claimed it was mine to also get maternity leave… Guess it doesn’t work like that.” She then pulls her into a tight hug. “I’ll sneak out if I have to come see you.”

“I love you Baylie. Go and kick ass. I’ll tell your niece you’re being an example for her.”

TWO WEEKS AGO

“So, Bradley surprised me with a trip to Greece. For a second honeymoon!” Grace says excitedly over the phone. 

Alana can’t help the small pang of jealousy. Here was her friend going on a second honeymoon and here she was about to be a single mother.

“That’s freaking fantastic Grace!”

“I know! And we leave in a week. I know you’re still a couple of months away from having the baby but we’ll be back in time.”

“Yeah no yeah. Take your time. Enjoy your honeymoon love. And Greece! That’s just amazing!”

YESTERDAY

Alana struggled to reach for the milk container that was towards the back. “Why can’t they think of short pregnant people?” She mutters to herself. She’s about to give up when a hand reaches for the carton and places it on her cart.

“Here you go mis- Alana?” Jake asks in surprise. 

“Jake! You’re back?” Alana replies.

He nods. “Just got back last night.” His eyes widen when he sees her ever-growing stomach. “I guess congratulations are in order.” His eyes skim her left hand but there’s no ring or no tan line of one.

“Yeah. She was a complete surprise.”

“It’s a girl?” His eyes soften. “She’ll be beautiful… Do you need any help getting things?” 

“I could use some help. Baylie and Grace aren’t in town today.” Before she can say more, he puts his basket in her cart and pushes her cart.

“What about the father?”

Alana exhales slowly and winces at the pain on her side. “Oh, he doesn’t know. It’s not like I haven’t tried. I’ve sent texts and emails, but I guess he just never cared much for me cuz I haven’t heard from him.”

“How far along are you?” 

“I’m 7 months pregnant… Forget about me. How’s Sydney and the baby?”

Jake grips the cart handles harder and makes a sudden sharp turn exiting the aisle. “She… I… She lied. It wasn’t my baby. I was there for every appointment. Every class. Only to find out she had been sleeping around on me and it wasn’t mine.”

Alana stops in her tracks and wipes at the tears in her eyes. She was so mad at Sydney for putting him through that but here she was doing all those things alone or with her friends.

While she loved her best friends dearly, it wasn’t the same as having a spouse day in and day out to support you. To help you at home. Yes, they were her found family but she would still be lonely in the nights. Her only constant companion: her unborn baby.

But also anger boiled up in her. Anger at him for ignoring her. Was she not good enough to be acknowledged as having his kid? Was she not pretty enough? Did he just use her to get off while he wasn’t with Sydney? 

“I… uhm actually I have to go home. I won’t be able to finish the shopping,” Alana says, starting to make her way to the store entrance.

“Are you sure? I can finish it for you. Just send me your list.”

“No. It’s okay. You’ll only ignore my text as you have for the last seven months!” 

Never had he seen or heard her this angry. Then his brain starts catching up with her words. Ignoring. Seven months. 

You'll see me in hindsight

Tangled up with you all night

Burning it down

Someday when you leave me

I bet these memories

Follow you around

Alana had already reached the exit and was getting into her car. The pain on her side increases. She calls her OB and the doctor tells her to immediately go to the emergency department. 

Jake is torn between getting their groceries and going after Alana. He decides to give her time and then he’ll confront her about the baby. He goes to pay for both their groceries. By the time he made it to the parking lot, Alana was already gone. 

PRESENT

“One more push and you can rest.”

Alana grunts as she pushes once more. The sound of a baby crying fills the room. Her eyes just want to close and her body feels ready to stop. “She’s lost too much blood. We need to stop the bleeding!” That’s the last that Alana hears before she decides to just take a quick nap. 

The doctors and surgeons rush to stabilize Alana’s vitals and stop the hemorrhaging. It takes them a few minutes but they are able to get the bleeding to stop and they stitch her up. 

At the nurses station, one of the nurses is trying to call Alana’s emergency contacts. There’s no response from Baylie or Grace. The next to be called is Viper and then finally they call Dragon.

“Commander Kazansky speaking,” Rachael answers.

“Commander. We’re calling from the base hospital. Commander Metcalf is here. She went into labor early. We have called all her emergency contacts but you’re the only one that has picked up.”

“I’ll be right there.” Rachael hangs up the phone and rushes to Jade’s office. “Whiskey! Let’s go!”

Jade looks startled. “What happened?”

“Cin… She’s in the hospital.”

“Shit! I’ll call Ice from the car while you drive!”

When Alana opens her eyes again, she’s in a private hospital room. Sitting next to her were Rachael and Jade. Mama Dragon and Mama Whiskey.

“Shhh shhh. Don’t try to move much,” Jade tells her.

“Baby… Where’s the baby?”

Rachael steps out of the room and flags down one of the nurses. “Can we have someone bring the baby?”

“She’ll be coming soon, love. The doctors say she’s completely healthy,” Jade pushes some of Alana’s hair out of her face. “How are you feeling?” 

“Like complete shit.”

“Oh babe,” Rachael takes one of her hands. “You just went through a lot and so suddenly. Not to mention alone. You are so fucking brave.”

“No, I’m not. I couldn’t keep the baby safe for the full term,” Alana starts crying.

“That doesn’t mean you’re not brave. Every birth and body is different. Think of it like this now: you get earlier access to your baby,” Jade adds.

At that moment, one of the nurses wheels the baby’s cot into the room. “She’s sleeping now.” Alana has Rachael help her slowly sit up to carry the baby.

Jade immediately FaceTimes Grace and Baylie. “Guess who got here early?!” 

“Who?” Grace says

“Why are you waking me up from my nap?” Baylie grumbles.

Jade flips the camera to show Alana carrying the baby. 

Immediately, both Grace and Baylie are shouting and calling for Bradley and Mickey to join the call. “WIFEY! You didn’t wait for me or Grace?!”

“Baby Samantha wanted to make you hurry home,” Alana says. 

“Wait… so you replaced us with Whiskey and Dragon…? Kinda rude but I guess they’re fine,” Baylie replies. 

“Actually. We just got here a few moments ago. She had already gone into labor. Alone,” Rachael informs them.

Bradley starts shouting that he’s getting tickets to return home the next day. 

“I’ll talk to Ice and Cyclone to get you two back stateside as soon as possible,” Jade tells the other two. 

“Yeah. Okay Mama Whiskey. I’ll get our bags ready just in case,” Mickey says.

After a few more minutes of catching up and getting the details of the birth, the girls hang up with a promise to arrive as soon as possible. 

Later that afternoon, the others from the squad slowly arrive to visit Alana and meet baby Samantha. Amanda and Raven both bring armloads of gifts. Javy and Natasha brought along snacks. Ron came and dropped off some compression socks and a set of pink fluffy robes: one for Alana and one for Samantha. Tom brought Alana her hospital bag with change of clothes for her and Samantha’s going home outfit.

Once everyone left, Alana laid back down with Samantha on her chest. “Hi princess. It’s you and me right now. Your aunts aren’t here but I know they’re dying to meet you.” Samantha gives a little yawn and squirm, that brings tears to Alana’s eyes. “You’re just so beautiful. You have your daddy’s eyes. They’re a beautiful green. Oh that little scowl is all me and papaw Viper.” 

“The Metcalf scowl of disappointment,” comes a voice from the door.

Alana looks up and her heart starts racing when she sees Jake there. “Uh yeah. It’s a Metcalf trademark.”

“Alana… Why… Why didn’t you tell me?”

She shakes her head. “Jake. I texted you. I called and left you a few voicemails. I even emailed you… You know I’d never hide the truth from you.”

Jake takes out his phone and looks through it. “You must have thought you did but you never did. I even would call you to catch up and talk but you blocked me or changed your number. Anytime I called it rang and would direct me to dial 9 to connect to a… To a sex line.”

Alana kisses the top of Samantha’s head and extends her hand. “Gimme your phone.” She manually enters her number and hits dial. “It’s saved as Spam Likely,” she says before looking up the contact. “And it’s blocked.”

He runs a hand through his hair. “I’m going to kill her… That was Sydney. Cin… You know me. We were friends before we…” 

“Before we had sex. You can say it Jake. We both agreed that that’s all it’d ever be.”

“But it wasn’t. Not for me… Alana I fell for you. I loved you then. But I was lied to and I did what I thought was right. I still love you because I know you, Alana. Even after all these months I know you would never cruelly let me down or keep this big secret from me. I’m so, so, so sorry that you went through it alone at times. All I ask is that you let me back in. Into your life and now into our baby’s life.”

Alana sniffles and wipes at her eyes. “Jake… Meet our daughter: Samantha Belle Seresin.” She carefully hands the baby over to Jake.

When Sam feels movement, she slowly opens her eyes and coos up at the person holding her. “Hi Samantha. I’m your daddy.”

Samantha coos again and closes her eyes once more to go back to sleep.

Alana’s eyes are also struggling to stay open. Jake carefully shifts her so that she’s comfortable but where there’d be space for him to sleep next to his two girls. She didn’t know it yet, but Jake was already making plans to make them a family of three once they were discharged.

Come morning time, Alana wakes up and smiles seeing Jake reading softly to Samantha. “You changed?” She asks once she notices his blue sweatpants and his white NAVY tank top.

“Yeah I had brought a change of clothes with me. Didn’t want to leave you two.”

As she’s about to reply, energetic shouts come from down the hall. “It’s my baby and I don’t care what he thinks!”

Alana turns to look at Jake. “Ready for the firing squad?” 

He leans down and kisses her tenderly. “For you and our baby? Always.”

--

TGM 🏷List: @luckyladycreator2 @dragon-kazansky @cycbaby @callsignscupcake @gracespicybradshaw @bayisdying @askmarinaandothers @ladylanera @novagreen04 @hisredheadedgoddess28 @callmemana @stargazing15 @starlit-epiphany

[tngrace]

Family Vacation

This lil fic was inspired by a weekend trip we had and the fact that I just love writing for Grace's brother as well as this lil chaos family. I hope you enjoy it.

🏷: @mrsjaderogers @bayisdying @ladylanera @semperhuggs

Caroline was just over a year old when Grace got the idea for a family vacation. The twins were almost nine months and Hadley was four months so she knew everybody would be able to travel. She ran the idea through the wifeys group chat; they could go to the beach for a few days and then there was going to be some racing at Charlotte. While she'd just seen her brother for Caroline's birthday, it never felt like long enough. Plus she hadn't seen him race in ages, and while she knew his girls usually weren't at the track with him and she missed them terribly, she thought it would be a fun time.

She found some rooms in Carolina Beach that weren't too over the top price wise since it wasn't peak summer yet being they were going the first of May, and while she knew all her pilots would complain about flying commercial, they'd just have to get over it. No way were they driving across the country with four kids. She found flights into Wilmington and secured rental cars as well. She also went ahead and booked the flights to Charlotte and got tickets to the dragstrip event. They were only going to be a few miles from her hometown, so she thought it'd be nice to show everybody where she came from. She was so excited for this trip, and she was very excited to surprise her brother.

The beach was a blast with the babies. Caroline loved the water, the sand not so much. Marcus and Nathaniel loved the sand, and even tried eating it much to Alana's dismay. Hadley was still too little to really enjoy it, but she loved laying on any one of her favorite adults and watching the kids. Jake, Bradley, and Mickey had a blast taking Caroline and the boys into the ocean while the girls suntanned and rested. It was so relaxing to just be away and enjoy the time together.

They spent four days in total there, with plans to come back or explore one of the other Carolina beaches for a longer trip. The fifth day they flew into Charlotte, and drove down to Grace's hometown. It was a small town on the outskirts of Charlotte, but it was close to the dragstrip and speedway. She showed them around, showing them her grandparents' house where she grew up even though they'd sold it. They even swing by the cemetery so Grace can leave some flowers and introduce Bradley and Caroline to her grandparents. In all, they only spend a couple hours in the town before heading north into Concord to their room for the weekend.

Friday they explore Concord, and everybody grabs some more souvenirs and mementos to remember their trip by. They don't stay out too long during the day because of the race that night. They want to give the kids enough time to rest and nap before a late night. Grace ends up napping with Caroline because she knows these events can go late into the night, especially if Kevin is winning.

They get to the dragstrip a couple of hours before the actual racing starts so they have time to walk through the pits and explore all the cars. She's hoping it will give her plenty of time to see Kevin too. She doesn't know for certain he'll be there as they hadn't talked about it last time they talked, but Grace is almost positive he will show up to race. She knows Charlotte's dragstrip will always be one of his favorite places to race since that's where he started.

The later it gets, the more nervous she gets that she drug everybody here for nothing. It was getting close to the end of tech and test and tune and her brother still wasn't there, despite her having seen a few of his Florida friends when they walked around. She left Caroline with Bradley and promised everybody she'd be right back; she had to see if they knew if he was coming or not. She just hoped they would remember her since she'd only met them a couple of times.

They were working on their cars, a crowd of people surrounding them. She knew their YouTube channels really brought in the crowds. She edged over to the side and called out to the one closest to her. "James!"

His head jerked up and looked in her direction. She gave a little wave and pointed at the shirt she had on which was one of Kevin's. "Grace?"

"Yea," she smiles when he recognized her. He let her under the rope and over into their circle. "What are you doing here?"

"Came to surprise Kev. I've got my husband and daughter with me and some friends and their kids. We'd been at the beach and I figured he'd be here when I heard about the race so we thought we'd surprise him. Except.... he's not here yet."

James looks around because Kevin had told them about the event. "Hey Ty! Yall heard from Kev?"

That gained everybody else's attention and they all noticed her. She was swarmed with hugs and welcoming greetings. "He called a few hours ago said he was still a couple out. Should be here soon."

"Thanks guys. I'll keep an eye out."

"Wait wait wait I think that's him," James smiled turning you towards where Kevin's truck was pulling in.

"Let me go get my girl."

"Bring her back here. We'll film it. His face is gonna be priceless."

"Thanks guys," she smiles. After collecting Bradley and Caroline, everybody else is gonna trail after once the video surprise is over, she returns to their tent. They had their cameras and go pros ready for different angles. Bradley tucked behind the tallest guy, which surprisingly had a couple of inches on him, while Grace carried Caroline behind James.

Kevin was unloading the car, so it ended up being the perfect setup. "Kev we have a surprise for you!" James called out once the car was beside the trailer.

"Oh yea? What now?" He chuckled as he slid out of the window. He noticed them all filming and his eyes narrowed in suspicion.

"Surprise!" Grace squealed stepping out from behind James. Caroline was giggling and clapping even though she really didn't know why until she saw her uncle. Kevin's face was priceless and he easily took Caroline and pulled Grace into his arms for a hug.

"What are you doing here?" He asks her as they pull back from the hug.

"Figured you'd be here. Wanted to surprise you. We took a mini family vacation out to the coast and then came back this way to watch you race."

"Well you got me but....." he knocked on the side of the trailer and the side door opened revealing his three girls. "Surprise back!"

"Auntie Grace!" Grace had an armful of two girls while Sam jumped straight into Bradley's arms.

"You've got the girls?!"

"Sure do. My week so we're gonna have some fun at the track."

"Well this is a nice surprise," Grace smiles as Cara reaches for Caroline. She had a feeling there was some drama there, but she'd get it out of him later.

Everybody with cameras peeled off promising to send the footage over. Kevin gave Caroline to Cara but stayed close. Her baby ear muffs made her look adorable, coupled with her baby Kevin racing shirt and Kevin loved it. The rest of the gang joined yall by Kevin's car, which the boys absolutely admired. Kevin easily took Hadley who smiled at him and gurgled happily, as he walked around the car with Bradley, Jake and Mickey. Jake was pushing the twins in a stroller and they just wide-eyed looked at the car.

The girls talked a mile a minute to their aunt, Baylie and Alana, since they hadn't seen her since Christmas, their mom not letting them come with Kev for Caroline's party. "We actually have one more surprise," Grace smiles catching Kevin's attention once they're done inspecting the car. They'd not told him at Caroline's party wanting to wait until they knew what they were having to tell him since he couldn't be at their gender reveal.

That catches Kevin's attention. Mickey takes Hadley back as Baylie and Alana covertly grab their phones to film and take pictures. Kev easily takes Caroline from Cara when she reaches for him once more as he gives his sister his full attention. "And?" He asks when she drags out the silence to drive him crazy.

She turns sideways and tugs her shirt a little tighter around her. "Read Caroline's shirt." On the back of her shirt it says "Uncle Kev’s fav until my little brother arrives."

His eyes snap back to hers and then to her belly. "Seriously?!"

"Yea. It was a surprise to us too," she laughs. Kevin pulls her in for another hug as they explain to the girls their getting another cousin. The girls are all excited, but Kevin finally breaks them up. "As much fun as this has been, I've gotta go make a pass before the tune session is over."

"Be careful," Grace says as Bradley takes Caroline and the girls go with them back to their seats. Kev's first pass isn't the greatest; the track prep wasn't the best and he spun as soon as he took off.

"Ouch," Sam sighed seeing her dad's time. At eight she understood more about racing than most adults. The perks of being her daddy's little mini me.

"Daddy won't like that," Ava sighed after Sam explained it to her.

Grace couldn't help but giggle. "No he probably won't sweetheart, but it'll be ok."

"Uncle Bradley can we go back to Daddy?"

Bradley hides his smile at Sam's request and nods. "Yep come on racing princess. Let's go see what he's going to do to fix it."

Grace slipped Caroline into her carrier and they headed back to the pits. Racing would start in the next fifteen minutes, so they decided to let the twins run off some energy by Kev's trailer while he worked on his tune. Hadley had already snuggled into Mickey's chest in her carrier and fallen asleep. Ava ran around with the twins, making sure they didn't fall or get hurt; Cara stayed glued to her aunt's side, while Sam watched over Kevin's shoulder everything he was doing.

Once the racing actually began, they went back to their seats. Sam wasn't happy about not going to the staging lanes with Kev, but she ended up with Bradley's attention so she was happy. Grace smiled just watching them. It had already been the best night, no matter what happened with Kev's racing. She managed to ask someone near them to snap a picture of all of them.

After Kevin barely wins the first one, the girls walk back over to the pits, leaving the boys to watch some more racing. The twins are fussy, so Alana pushes them around getting them to sleep while the girls congratulate their dad. He takes Caroline once more, while he works on the tune a little more. Grace can't help but snap a pic of the cute scene. Caroline is almost asleep, her little head laying on Kev's shoulder as he just works away.

All four of the babies end up falling asleep before Kev's next pass. Mickey and Bradley take Hadley and Caroline in their carriers so Baylie and Grace can have a break. The twins are sound asleep, laid back in their stroller. They decide to stand on the fence to watch the next few passes, and once again Kev gets the victory, putting him into the final. There wasn't as many cars there that night, so they had shorter rounds. Kev easily sails to victory in his class, and the girls are so happy for their dad. Since the babies are asleep, they decide to stay for the winner's circle so Grace can grab some pics for Kev and with his girls.

They make plans to meet up with Kev and the girls in the morning for breakfast and to spend the day together. They have a late flight that night, in the hopes the kids will sleep through it, so they have all day to spend. Since Kev won Friday night, he decided to skip the Saturday passes and spend the day with his family. Overall, it was one of the best vacations any of them had been on in a really long time, and they were all looking forward to the next one, maybe even to Florida that time.

[callmemana]

Arms Wide Open, Catch Me If I Fall:

Chapter 5: Home In The Sky

Word Count: 3k+

Dual POV story (Birdie & Bob {please message me if the POV switch isn’t detectable and I’ll figure out a way to show that its switched between the characters})

🚨Warnings: inaccurate Naval descriptions, angst and floof. Mentions of Depression, suicide, drunkards, abuse, and religious views. Please if you suffer from depression talk to someone. I’m always here if you need an ear! 💛

A/N: dividers by @sligheach-sidhe , cover by me ( @callmemana ).

A/N 2: This is very personal to me and something that my family has gone through. I know that not very many people have the support system I had growing up and had people to talk to about the importance of mental health. It’s not something to joke about or not take seriously.

A/N 3: this is part 1 of 2, the next chapter will be a continuation. 💛 check out LP for more info on ‘Katie’!

It had been a couple of weeks and Amanda had finally settled into the Dagger Squad and San Diego and met the rest of the ‘Chaos Squad’ and the Daggers’ Aviator Mamas, Rachael Dragon Kazansky and Jade Whiskey Kerner.

Birdie met Whiskey when one day after Bird had just got home from walking Ozzy. Mickey and Baylie forgot that they had a guest and were being loud in the bedroom.

She didn’t stay long after the loud moans could be heard around the house.

So, with wanting to get away and let the newly-weds have their alonetime Bird went to the library. She was in the romance books when she literally ran into Commander Jade Whiskey Kerner.

“I’m so sorry Commander, I didn’t mean to run into you.” she rushed as she moved aside.

The older woman just laughed and they both sat down together and talked for hours until Bay called and asked where she’d gone.

Bird had gotten to know the other squad members and formed a good bond with all of them. Bo and her started to mend the relationship slowly but surely.

We were laughing and joking every once in a while and Bird started to call him Bo instead of Robert again here and there, which she could tell made his smile wider if possible.

She wanted to be able to trust him full-heartily, but he betrayed that in Lemoore and it would take work and effort on both sides to see this be mended to what it was.

Bird was willing and she could tell he was too, but how long will it last before he loses his temper or decides that he can’t go through it again.

They were on a team now and from what she’s been told, Bay and Mickey were on the Uranium mission and are better than ever, so why did he push her away?

Robert and her could be half way done with the wedding planning by now, she could’ve sent the ‘Save The Date’ cards to their families and friends and she’d have her dress already.

She’d have a dress, a wedding dress that would take his breath away and make him cry from Birdie’s beauty and her father would walk her down the aisle, tears in his eyes as he gives his only daughter to the man she loved.

Hailey and Heather would be Maid of Honor and a Bride’s Maid, standing by her side as Bo and her said their vows and exchanged rings.

Bird had this imagine in her mind since she said “Yes!” all those months ago when everything was happy and great.  

After the first week of being in the Dagger Squad and already tired of Hangman and Rooster’s constant bitching and competitiveness, Birdie went to the closest Walmart and bought a Disney Princess kids’ dress up set.

The next day, Birdie went onto base and put the tiara in her locker and as soon as either of the boys started to bitch about who was the best of the group.

She asked for them to wait as she grabbed it and hid the plastic crown behind her back as she walked back in.

When she revealed the tiara, everyone was confused, but the looks on their faces quickly turned into smiles and laughter as Bird placed it on Roos’ head and said, “You have been crowned the Bitch of the Day. As you see fit My Majesty.” and bowed.  

All the aviators, except Bob, took turns slamming their hands and fists onto the top of her helmet.

Most of them were nice, but Baylie was the most ruthless, always making sure that Birdie could feel the vibrations through the helmet.

Birdie new that once Bo got comfortable again, he’d be the nicest one, but until then, Mickey was.

Fanboy saw her as a little sister and always made sure that Bird was treated nicely when he was around.

After a month of being a guest in the Garcia’s house, seeing, learning, and hearing things that new friends shouldn’t, Birdie had put in a request for a on-base house and is currently waiting for an opening.

She had been to the Hard Deck and met Penny, Amelia, and Grace, but preferred to be called her honorary callsign; Spicy.

The girls of the Dagger Squad, Grace and Alana, and Rachael and Jade became a squad of their own, known around the base and off as the Chaos Squad.

This little grouping of chaotic women didn’t help Bird’s nonexistent relationship with Cyclone, especially after meeting with his wife, Robyn Venom Simpson.

She also had been introduced to Roos’ step-mother, Grace O’Mally Bradshaw. Both women were lovely and so much fun to be around.

Birdie didn’t want the six months to go by too quickly so she had enough time to really get to know the group and form a tight friendship with each of them.

She was going to be sad when the time period was up and she was deployed to another base, but this is what she signed up for years ago.

Bird just wanted to mend one relationship when she first arrived and now was lucky enough to walk away with more friendships than she though she would.

She also would walk away with a family. A father and mother, aunt and uncle, sisters and brothers that will always be in her life no matter what.

Even if Bo and her don't bury the hatchet, the others have told her so many times when she’d voiced her concern over the subject.

Ozzy was happier too, he had more people to love and care for him now and was loving every bit of attention that the others were giving him.

It had been more than once that Ozzy had kicked Mickey out of the bed so he could snuggle Baylie.

Bird knew when Ozzy was with Bay when Mickey is getting comfy on the couch, she’d always offer to get Oz and he could be with his wife.

He always waved her off and said that Bay’s been wanting a dog for a while and if this is keeping her mind off of one for them, he’d happily give up his bed.

We were also briefed on another upcoming mission and the team started training and had been doing good.

There was more time to complete the training this time too, which Birdie was thankful for, she’d just joined the squad.

It was crazy to think that these few weeks together had felt like a lifetime already and Bird wouldn’t change anything if it meant that she’d never met them.

Don’t get her wrong, Bird was beyond sad when Bo broke her heart, but it kinda feels worth it now.

Because without that lost, she wouldn’t have gained a family, a very chaotic family, but one none the less.

Bird felt as if she was home. Bo helped with that, he had been her home for four years prior and Bird couldn’t stop thinking as him as that.

Robert Floyd has had her heart since that day on the trail for training in bootcamp and he gave Birdie that rock after telling her that he would keep the little mushroom she had picked just for him.

Bird knows that it's stupid to say that was the moment he took her heart, over a silly little thing as a mushroom, but it was.

Bo took the little fungus and while others would’ve thrown it over their shoulders when I wasn’t looking, he kept it, and later in the recreational room, he gifted me a rock.

Even if he didn’t realize it, he spoke my love language, sentimental gifts that make no sense to anyone else but us.

I was grateful to have a friend that finally understood me and embraced my quirks.

Not that Athena didn’t, she did, but she got tired of it sometimes.

Bird doesn’t blame her though, having a neurodivergent friend can be exhausting when they have hyper-activity and can’t focus on anything and everything most days.

Bo took the randomness of me as if it was an exciting adventure and had the patience of a Saint to wait for me when it was harder to keep on tasks.

He was considerate when I said I was overwhelmed and noticed the signs when I was too scared of ruining his night by leaving early.

Bo never got upset or argued, he’d just say an excuse for us to leave and then we’re in his car and going home.

Bird’s family never really got why she had a harder time on some of the subjects at school, but after a teacher had spotted the symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD, she recomended that Birdie gets tested.

When the results came back positive and they started her on some medication to help, her grades went up and she was focusing better on tasks, but her family still sometimes treated her as before.

The family she had in San Diego though, they understood and also took the time to help her, just like they do for Mouse.

The squads watch for certain behaviors and try to soothe the others’ emotions.

Just like when Roos noticed Bird was nervous and overwhelmed before flying on her first day back at Top Gun and knew that she needed to do a pre-flight ritual.

He was there for Bird even if he didn’t know exactly what she needed.

Amanda finally found a group of friends that understand and are willing to help and she couldn’t be more thankful for them.

Not that she’d let Hangman know that she’s appreciative of him, his egos big enough.

It had been a month in San Diego when Bird got the phone call from her mother that a friend back home had died, she immediately drew back from the squad.

Baylie and Mickey saw the happy-go-lucky woman turn distant and quiet in the matter of seconds. Bird didn’t waste any time in running to her room and bursting into tears.

They had known each other since they were children. The two women were cousins, best friends, and practically inseparable. Bird had known about Hailey’s depression for years.

No one really took her seriously when she’d lay in bed for days, no energy or motivation to get up and eat and take care of herself.

But Bird did, she took the mental health of others very seriously. As did her parents, especially after what her mother experienced at eighteen.

Jackson, her grandfather, was something that the Wheeler side of the family didn’t talk about and when they did, it wasn’t a lot.

They saw him as a disgrace, for suicide is the highest Sin that one could commit in they eyes of God.

The Wheeler family might not always be the most religious but they do follow His word. From the brief stories that her mother told, Jackson was a mean alcoholic. Everyday he’d drink until he was good and drunk.

That’s how he coped with being depressed, but it was the early 80’s and not a lot of people sought out for help, they turned to drink or drugs or whatever tickled their fancy.  

Bird will never forget the day that her mother had pulled out that damned bullwhip from her Hope Chest and told all three of her children the story of it.

Then after the story was done, Kathleen Hallet took in her children’s faces and said, “If you ever feel like you’re not yourself, please tell your dad or me ok?”

All the siblings nodded their heads as Kathleen tried to make sure they understood what she was talking about. And even as the children grew, Nick and Kat reminded them and gave more encouragement to talk to them if needed.

Birdie was 8 when she was first introduced to her grandfather’s memory and every blue moon she’d learn something new.

She was 17 when she learned that Jackson was his name, had a fraternal twin brother named John, that he liked Lions, and was fortunate enough to be given his old wool jacket and a small lion figurine.

Bird was 20 when she was told that Mamaw and Papaw Wheeler owned a bar and he and his buddies would stay there and drink all day playing cards.

The Hallet siblings might not have had a maternal grandfather, but they did have a maternal great grandpa.

He was a big part of their childhood, he taught all of them life lessons and other important things as they grew.

Birdie was the closest to both her Mamaw and Grandpa Wheeler, always watching old westerns and doing puzzles with them.

It broke her heart when her Great Grandfather died at the age of 96.

The hardest part being that she was in boot camp and couldn’t be excused to attend. Bo was her biggest shoulder to cry on and stayed with her until she wasn’t grieving as much. Heather and Phillip were there for her too when Bo couldn’t.

She didn’t know if she could go through the same thing again, but this time would be different, with someone she actually knew and saw and loved and grew up together.

Hailey was someone that Bird never thought that she’d have to out-live, with her being in the Navy, her life was constantly in danger.

It was beyond hard for her to think of a world where Hailey wasn’t just one phone call away if Bird had a bad day and needed her best friend to talk to or vice versa.

She’d never hear her voice again, never feel her warmth from a hug. What if Bird forgets Hailey’s voice or laugh? What if she hears a song or smell or memory that reminds her of Hailey and starts to cry?

Bird for weeks would just do nothing but lay in her bed after work, sobbing and cuddling Ozzy until she had cried herself to sleep.

This worried Bay and Mickey, they had no idea what had happened in that phone call and started to fret over their friend’s health.

Mickey begged Bay to let him call Bob, he’d most likely be able to get her to open the door and talk, but Bay would shake her head and take Ozzy for his evening walk.

Every member of the squads came to the Garcia’s shack, talking through the wooden door as they sat on the ground.

Bay and Mickey talked to her the most, about what they did after work, how Ozzy did that day if he wasn’t in her room, and how much they miss seeing her bright and shiny smile.

What they didn’t know, was the hurt she felt in hearing them plead with her to come out. She just didn’t want to smile or do anything knowing that her best friend was gone.

Everything felt numb, lungs heavy and crushed, her friends’ voices sounded as if she was underwater. And all she wanted to do was breathe.

“Hey Angel,” he started breathlessly and searching for the right words, “I know. I got a text from your Ma, she’s worried about you. I am too, you’ve never been like this.”

There was a soft thud on the door where he put his forehead, “You’re the most happiest girl I know and I hate to see you like this. Hailey had been battling with her depression for years and I know that you did everything you could to help her, and you did, help her I mean. It might not seem like it right now, but…”

A long breath escaped his lungs, “You did what you were supposed to do, you were there for her when she needed you most and made sure she knew that you would listen to anything and everything she wanted to say.”

“Then why does it feel like I did nothing,” she whispered, voice scratchy from disuse as Bird laid her forehead against the door where she thought his was.

“Because you think you could’ve done more, could’ve saved her. Angel, babe, without you she probably would’ve lost that battle sooner than later. You showed her that you cared, that she mattered, that she had someone in her corner when it felt like no one else was.”

Birdie sniffled and took her head off of the door and for a minute or two it was completely silent.

“If I open this door, I just want you and Ozzy to come inside. I’m overwhelmed and need my boys. I’ll talk to the squads and Mama and Papa later.”

“If that's what you want Angel, I’ll go get Oz now.”

“Yes please.”

It took a few minutes for Bo to come back, but once he did, he knocked on the door with Ozzy right beside him.

“Thank you Robert.”

“For you, I’d do anything.” and a happy bark followed after by the fur baby sitting on her bed.

All the members of the squads came over and talked to her through the closed door, all except for Bob.

He didn’t think that he’d have the right to comfort her right now, but after a text message from Birdie’s mama, he quickly understood what he had to do.

“Robert, please tell us our baby is okay?” “Mana’s not doin’ so good. What happened?” “Hailey.”

That one name and Bob knew, how couldn’t he. Robert didn’t tell the others, they had other worries and commitments to attend to.

He had kept it secret for a few days before Bay had finally had enough and cornered him in the hallway. “Robert James Floyd, I know that you know what’s up with Birdie, spill.”

“I can’t, it’s personal.”

“If it’s personal, then we should know so we can help!”

“That’s not how this works ok? You can’t just demand to know what everyone’s going through when it’s not your business, so butt out Baylie.”

Bo pushed through her and continued his way to the hangers where the others were, leaving Lucky stunned and slacked jawed by the balls he showed for calling her out as she stood in the empty hallway.

Maybe it was time that the real Robert showed his face and met the squad, but he’ll save that for another day. His Birdie needs him.

He came over to the Garcia’s little cottage after work and as Hangman walked out of the hallway where Bird’s room was, Bo pushed his way to the guest room.

Robert sat on the floor in silence for a minute or two, trying to come up with a plan to talk to her before he shook his head and started.

He knew that the squads were just down the hall and could listen in anytime they wanted, and would, because Birdie was family now.

Bo kept his voice just above a whisper and forehead glued to the sturdy wood door that was between them. Every answer he gave was unclear to anyone but the two.

The conversation went on for a while before he came back into the livingroom and stopped right in front of Ozzy.  

“Hey Buddy, you miss me?” Bo chirps as he pets Ozzy’s head. Ozzy in return gives him some kisses, making Bo laugh.

“Yeah, I missed you too. Wanna go see your mama, she needs cuddles from her boys.”

Ozzy stretches as he gets up off of the couch and then jumps off and races towards Birdie’s bedroom door. Bo starts to get back up from kneeling position but is stopped by Baylie.

“She lost someone close to her, didn’t she?” Lucky had tears in her eyes at seeing her friend’s pain, just like she felt all those years ago when she lost her childhood friend Katie.

Bo didn’t answer, just nodded and before he turned into the hall, “I hope it’s okay if I stay the night. I don’t wanna leave her alone if I can.”

Bay nodded, “Stay as long as it takes to make Birdie happy again, if she needs anyone to talk to, tell her I’m here and I know her pain right now.”

Robert offered a small smile and continued to Bird’s room, once there Ozzy let out a happy bark as Bob opened the door and Oz jumped onto the bed and curled up next to his Mama’s torso.

Bo laid down next to her aswell, brushing away the new tears before they could fall. “I’ll be with you til the end of the line, Angel.”

she snuggled up to him and put her head on his chest, right above his heart so she could hear the beat and Bo ran his fingers through her knotted hair to calm her down.

Birdie’s Basket: @dragon-kazansky @mrsjaderogers @bayisdying @starlit-epiphany @gracespicybradshaw

🏷️ list: @luckyladycreator2 @interstellarloneliness

[bayisdying]

Lucky Penny - Chapter Twenty-Seven

A/N: we are almost done with Germy 😏 for now

Besties for the resties: @dragon-kazansky @gracespicybradshaw @mrsjaderogers @callmemana @ladylanera @kloofspeaks @callsignthirsty @cycbaby @likelyrowdy @roosterscockpit @notyoursbutlewis @starlit-epiphany @askmarinaandothers

The men of Hermes' squadron lied through their teeth on the mission debrief and they interrupted her at every chance. If looks could kill? They'd all be as dead as they wished she was.

The fire in her eyes was running wild, and they had no idea how burned they were about to get.

Their Admiral announced that their squadron was being invited back to Top Gun per one Admiral Tom "Iceman" Kazansky. That made Lucky smirk, they all celebrated but they had no idea.

When they boarded the plane, Lucky sat alone. Her notebook full of their mistreatments tucked safely in her bag. She was scrolling through pictures on her phone when she comes across one of all of their Chaos Family at their wedding. She knew that everyone in this picture would have her back in California, and she felt safe.

-----

Ice was pacing back and forth. Their plane was landing soon and he couldn't decide whether he was going to hug his girl or punch Hermes first.

Dragon already knew what she was doing, she was holding her girl, Mickey could kiss bricks if he thinks he's getting the first hug.

Cin was also freaking out, Jake had told her that Lucky was almost home and though she knew her friend would never blame her for sending her on this mission. She didn't want Lucky to think she did it on purpose. All she needed was to see her friends smile as she was reunited with them all.

Jake had gathered Bradley, Javy, Rueben, Phoenix and Bob in the rec room as they awaited the plane. He finally told them what he'd done for Lucky and about the report she'd filed aganist Hermes the first time they'd been at Top Gun. Bradley obviously was the most mad about it, but the others were just as angry. They would all stand behind her during the meeting.

Mickey was more than excited, he was finally going to have his wife in his arms once more. He knew he probably wouldn't get the first hug, but once he did? He wasn't letting go.

-----

"You must think you're tough shit coming home."

"Well Hermes, unlike you I have friends."

"You sure know how to be nice."

The bus takes them from the airport to Top Gun. The boys seem to think they are about to be rewarded by THE Iceman for a job well done.

Waiting outside was the entire Dagger Squad, in the middle stood Ice and Dragon with stony expressions.

The men all climbed out of the bus first forming a line, Lucky behind them the smirk on her face obvious, she bypasses their formal line and half-runs to the group standing there. Mickey takes a step forward and catches her duffle bag when she throws it into his arms. She reaches Cin and hugs her friend as tight as she could.

"I'm so sorry Lucky."

"Don't you dare apologize babe. I love you."

"I love you too." Cin tears up and cries into her shoulder.

She can hear the men making comments, she doesn't care. This is her home, these are her people.

After Cin had been properly hugged, Dragon stepped forward and took her daughter into her arms.

"Welcome home baby." She whispers in her ear.

"Thanks Momma."

"They'll never hurt you again."

"Can we get this little show on the road?" Calls out Hermes, and Lucky can feel Dragon tense up.

"Well gentleman, I suppose we can do that." Ice says, as Lucky makes her way to Mickey's arms. He kisses her forehead and doesn't let go.

Hermes steps forward, "I'm sure you understand how important this mission was and it was a success."

"Was it?" Jake says. "Was it really?"

"It's good to see you again Hangy." Hermes smirked.

Lucky goes to remove herself from Mickeys grip but he just tightens his hold around her waist.

"I wouldn't call almost killing the best aviator in the Navy, a successful mission." The voice that spoke was Dragon's, but she sounded nothing like how anyone had ever heard her before. Sure they'd heard her angry, but this? This was a whole new level, this was Dragon.

Hermes straightened up at that but he kept that damn smirk on his face, "I don't recall almost dying on this mission Commander Kazansky."

Lucky growled at that comment and Mickey had to tighten his grip again, thankfully Payback, Coyote, and Rooster were all there to offer hands to keep Lucky from beating the shit out of Hermes despite them all wanting to let her go.

"And I don't recall you ever being a good aviator." Dragon retorts.

"Oh you were talking about Lucky weren't you? She's fine, obviously she has all her little boytoys..."

He doesn't get to finish his statement, Lucky manages to shake off all her "little boytoys" and stomps her way over to Hermes.

"You can be an asshole to me all you want Hermes, but you say one word about any of my family? There won't be a body for your poor mother to bury."

For what it's worth, Hermes stands his ground too.

"Well damn Steele, no need to throw a temper tantrum."

"Her last name isnt Steele anymore." Mickey says walking up behind his wife. "It's Garcia."

"I guess my invitation got lost in the mail, since you have me to thank for getting the girl."

"I would have never said yes to you." Lucky says her voice dark, not liking where this was going.

He looked around at his men then at the crowd behind Lucky, then back down at Lucky.

"Men, you all just had the opportunity to fly with the only pilot who had to bang her way to the top. I mean look at all the men back there supporting her. You got Rooster and Hangy who can't deny a pretty girl. Hell I bet she's even rolled around with Coyote and Payback though I wouldn't imagine they are really her type. Maybe even sweet Bobby over there has had a chance. You think Iceman would be pulling out all the stops if he didn't know just how good that pus.."

When the fist connects with Hermes' face time stands still. Lucky has to look down at her own hands to make sure she hadn't punched him. No, it hadn't been her. It had been her husband. Her sweet, kind, goofy husband had punched the motherfucker.

Mickey stood over where Hermes lay on the ground holding his nose. "Never ever talk about my wife like that again or it wont just be a punch." He then turns around, grabs Luckys hand and walks her into base, bypassing even all their friends who try to stop him.

He guides her to the rec room, and once he decides they are far enough removed from the situation he turns around and kisses his wife soundly on the mouth.

"That was very sexy of you Mr. Gracia." She says as they pull apart.

"Yeah, now I know why you like punching people so much. It felt good."

Lucky smiles up at him, "can I see the damage?"

He holds out his right hand, and they both cringe a little when they see how bruised the knuckles already are.

"You pulled a real me out there." Lucky teases as she digs the first aid kit out of a cabinet.

"He wasn't going to finish that statement, not about my girl." Lucky opens her mouth, but he stops her, "I know you can handle yourself Bay, but I did vow to always protect you."

Lucky just smiles at him as she makes him sit on the worn out couch, and straddles his lap. Taking his hand in hers, she begins to take care of his knuckles.

"It's odd being on the other end of this." Mickey comments as he watches his wife concentrate on wrapping his hand.

"Oh shut up."

"Pretty sure I also vowed to annoy you the rest of our lives."

"That was Spicy's speech not your vows you dipshit."

"Spicy is smarter than I am."

"I'm glad you finally realize this."

He laughs, "I missed you."

"I missed you more."

"Impossible because I missed you way more than he did." Cin's voice carries through the rec room.

"Cin!" Lucky jumps off Fanboy's lap and runs to her friend and gives her another crushing hug. "I missed you so much too."

"Wow okay, I'm just chopped liver then." Mickey says sarcastically.

"Shut up Mickey." Both girls say at the same time.

"Where the fuck is my sister and my hug from her?"

"Roo!" Lucky catapults herself into his arms.

"God I missed you sis."

"Awww you missed me?"

"Don't ruin this nice moment."

The others joined them and hugs were given all around. Rueben picked her up and spun her around. Javy kissed her cheek.

Jake leans against the doorway taking in the sight.

"I guess I'm happy to see you back here in one piece." He says and Lucky whips around.

"Oh Jake, thank you so much." She says as she hugs him tight. "I guess you aren't so bad."

"Wow thanks babe."

"Hey now, that's my wife Seresin." Mickey teases.

"Oh you can have her Garcia!"

"Oh come on, I'm a delight and any man would be lucky to have me."

"Only Mickey is crazy enough to love you." Jake jokes.

Lucky smiles at her friend, "thanks again Jake. It meant alot for you to actually do what I asked."

"Only for you, you chaotic woman."

Rooster interrupts to say "Spicy just text, they're shutting down the Hard Deck for a special someone's coming home party."

"What about our pals that totally are never flying for the Navy again?" Lucky asks and Cin speaks up.

"Their meeting with all the higher ups is set for tomorrow. They think it's just a debrief and maybe some rewards." She gives an evil smile.

"Then let's go drink!"

"I get first dibs at Spicy, Chicken."

"I swear to God I will race you for that."

"And there they go." Jake sighs as the two run out to their cars.

Once they got to the Hard Deck, Lucky didn't even give the car a chance to be put in park before she was climbing out and running inside the bar.

"Where's my wife?" She calls out to the empty bar.

"Baylie!" Spicy comes running out of the kitchen.

"Grace!"

The two meet in a huge hug where neither want to let go first.

"Damn it, she beat me."

"She'll always beat you Bradley."

"Ouch."

[dragon-kazansky]

Written by Dragon 🐉

Written by Whiskey 🥃 to be added soon

Written by Spicy 🌶 to be added soon

♡♡♡

Ice x Dragon - Me

The Chaos Family 🐉

Ice x Dragon 🐉

The first date 🐉

Domestic life 🐉

Moving in 🐉

Ride the wave 🐉

The beach trip 🐉

Sunday morning 🐉

A chaotic Christmas 🐉

An angel for Christmas 🐉

Hold on tight 🐉

Lonely hearts and broken wings 🐉

My Little Lucky Girl 🐉

Our Beautiful Baylie 🐉

Slider x Whiskey - @mrsjaderogers

Scream a little louder 🐉

Double Trouble 🐉

Hangman x Cinco - @mrsjaderogers

Deck the halls 🐉

Goose x Scarlet - @askmarinaandothers

Eyes on the prize 🐉

Goose hugs 🐉

Snow angels 🐉

Cyclone x Venom - @cycbaby

Be good for daddy 🐉

Sit on Santa's knee 🐉

Where the road takes us 🐉

Rooster x Spicy - @gracespicybradshaw

Bouncing Bronco 🐉

Things Rooster says to Spicy 🐉

Service please 🐉

Dancing in the snow 🐉

Fanboy x Lucky - @bayisdying

Christmas at the cabin 🐉

Coyote x Cupcake - @callsignscupcake

Cock pit 🐉

Bob x Milla - @breadsquash

Chipper x Baby - @heyriojude

Omaha x Mouse - @starlit-epiphany

Wolfman x High Roller - @callmemana

♡♡♡

Other content

Darling Baylie 🐉

Favourite places 🐉

[whiskeyswriting]

Dagger Spare’s Ghost Story

{ An AU fic for Hangman x Cinco }

Alana knew the moment that Maverick announced Baylie and Javy as team leader and Dagger 2, respectively, that Jake would lose his temper. She had sat in on the long, and seemingly endless, meetings with the Admirals and Captains to determine who would be selected. 

She cared for each member of the Top Gun class. They all had proven to be friends to her over the last year. However, her secret relationship with Jake meant she knew him a bit better than the other students did. She didn’t deny that he was a great pilot. He had demonstrated time and again that he knew how to fly and how to do so dangerously. 

However, Alana also knew that he wasn’t the best at being a team player. There was no way she or the Admirals would agree to make him Team Leader. She also knew to prepare for his reaction after the announcement was made to them.

“What the hell!? Did you even try to get me recommended!?” 

“I need you to calm down and lower your voice, Jake.”

“I’m the best pilot and I’m a fucking spare…? What the hell have I been sleeping with you for?”

“Lieutenant! That is enough! I am still your superior. Now get out of my office before either one says anything else we may regret.”

Jake just stays staring at her. “Our little thing… We’re done.”

“That’s fine Lieutenant. I always knew it would never go anywhere. Now please leave.”

Bradley had heard Jake yelling and was listening in by the door and scurried away when he heard Jake opening the door.

Alana doesn’t let herself cry. There were no feelings involved. All they were was just sex. But his words stuck and stung. ‘What the hell have I been sleeping with you for?’ At least now she truly knew how he saw her and their… relationship.

Alana continues her day with her office door closed. She only leaves to get something to eat. She never was one really to make friends easily with others so she often kept to herself.

To get to her car to leave the base for lunch, she had to pass by the men’s locker room. Unfortunately for her, the door was open and Jake was still angry and loud. “She’s a fucking bitch. It was just a few pity fucks to get her to recommend me. Not that I would ever really settle down with anyone like her.”

Alana turned to look towards the door, only to find him and a few of the other officers exiting the locker room. She kept her cool and composure as he pushed past her and none of the officers saluted or acknowledged her presence. She kept her head held high as she walked the rest of the way to her car.

As soon as she made it to her car, she allowed herself a few minutes to cry. She then wiped away her tears and went for her food. 

Arriving back at the base, Alana went to get coffee from the rec room, only to once again find Jake there still complaining.

“Oh my goodness, Seresin, do you ever shut up?” Baylie asked. 

“Who the hell did you fuck to get picked?” He yells back at her.

“You’re the one sleeping with people in higher ranks trying to get that lead position,” Bradley says in frustration.

Nobody in the room had seen or heard Alana come in until she spilled the hot coffee on her hand and yelped. She puts the coffee pot back and runs her hand until cold water. 

“Just fucking great. You’re here to tell us we’ve been replaced? You probably slept with Cyclone or Mav to pick idiots to be the team leaders!”

Javy stood up in front of Jake and gave him a shove. “That’s enough man! Sit down and shut up.”

The whole Dagger Squad was there and they put two and two together, based on Bradley’s earlier comment to Jake. 

Alana just shakes her head and leaves. Her coffee and lunch - forgotten and left behind. She locks herself in her office and finishes running the reports for the mission. She then works on her request for transfer. 

Later that evening, the Daggers all met up at the bar to discuss what happened earlier.

“Does anybody really know who she is?” Bradley asks.

“She’s Cyclone’s right hand man,” Phoenix replies. “A quiet girl like Bob.”

Grace brings them their drinks and sits on Rooster’s lap. “What’s the latest gossip?”

“Jerk Jake caused a scene at the base and, according to Bradley, broke it off with his girl… Who he was only sleeping with to get the team leader,” Baylie says after downing her drink. 

“Oof. That’s terrible!” Grace comments. 

“Yeah I felt bad for her. She seems like a tough cookie but that his words did more damage than any of us can really tell.”

Meanwhile, Jake is drowning his sorrows at the bar. He picks up his phone to call her for a hookup that night. “Hi. You’ve reached Alana. I can’t answer your call now but please leave a message or text me.”

“Hey don’t ignore or block me… Call me back sweet face.”

Alana spots him across the bar as she feels her phone ring. She would love nothing more than to block him but because of the upcoming mission she can’t. So she pays for her drink and goes to sit next to Jake.

“Let me just say this Jake: I never expected or wanted to have anything serious with you. I knew our roles. Just fuck buddies. Not even friends. But I am still your superior. So I expect that respect on base. Outside of the base, don’t worry. I won’t chase you. I won’t call you. It’ll be like we never fucked.” She discreetly leaves next to his hand the key to his apartment that he gave her for their fuck sessions.

Alana waves at Penny as she leaves.

It’s not long after they’re all in the carrier and on the way to the mission. In the days prior, Jake kept trying to talk to Alana, but he always found her deep in her work or having the rest of the Daggers interrupt him.

The day of the mission finally arrives and he’s called in after Lucky and Javy get shot down. After searching, they get called back for a search and rescue mission.

It takes some hours but they find them both. Everyone celebrates their return at the carrier. When Jake looks up to the tower, he finds Cyclone, Warlock, and Cinco all looking down at them in relief.

It’s then he notices Cyclone gives Cinco a folder and they salute each other. He then sees Cyclone give her a tight hug. He storms off to her office once he saw her leaving.

“So it was Cyclone you were fucking!?” 

“Lieutenant. I once told you that was none of your concern but since you refuse to believe me: Cyclone helped my grandfather raise me. He’s like an uncle to me. The closest thing I have to a father. This will be the last time ever I ask you to leave my office.”

“Think you can just ignore me?” 

“It’ll be much easier to not have you accusing me of derailing your naval career from Japan.” 

The days pass quickly and they arrive back stateside. Alana leaves for Japan as soon as she finishes packing.

Jake spends his evenings at the Hard Deck. He hears the most beautiful laugh he hasn’t heard in weeks and he turns to find Alana. Only when he finds the person laughing he sees that it wasn’t her. It was someone else. Carrie Underwood’s ��Ghost Story” begins playing from the jukebox. 

That’s when he knew he lost the only person that made him a better pilot and a better person. 

--

🏷️ List: @bayisdying @callmemana @gracespicybradshaw @cycbaby @ladylanera @starlit-epiphany @breadsquash @askmarinaandothers @dragon-kazansky @callsignscupcake @novagreen04 @hisredheadedgoddess28

[whiskeyswriting]

Welcome Little Loves

Nathaniel Miguel Seresin

DOB: August 13 | Time: 3:27pm

Length: 18.5 inches | Weight: 5 pounds 4 ounces

Marcus Bradley Seresin

DOB: August 13 | Time: 3:31pm

Length: 18 inches | Weight: 5 pounds 10 ounces

•‧:❤️:‧:❤️:‧•

August 13. The day that the rest of their lives started.

The Dagger Squad, along with the Chaos Squad were all waiting in the hospital lobby waiting to here that the Seresin twins were born.

Once they see Jake, Viper and Cindy are the first to stand and go see Alana and the boys.

After they leave, Jake comes get Baylie and Grace along with Mickey and Bradley. “The aunts and uncles are next.”

Caroline was sleeping in Mav’s arms.

Cin smiles sleepily at the four of them. “Hi… I want you to meet Nathaniel Miguel and Marcus Bradley.”

Jake was grinning and recording their reactions. The other two couples it took them a second for the middles names to hit them.

“We have each boy the middle name of his godfather,” Alana says. “Babies meet the other people that will always be there for you.”

Grace, who was still hormonal from giving birth to Caroline, and Baylie, who now was a few months along, both started crying happy tears. Mickey and Bradley each took “their” baby and were carrying them. Mickey also cried at hearing the middle name. Bradley will say he didn’t cry but he did get emotional.

Eventually, everyone got to meet the twins and congratulate the new parents. Alana closed her eyes to sleep knowing that her babies will ups always feel the love and protection of a family.

•‧:❤️:‧:❤️:‧•

The Usual Suspects: @askmarinaandothers @bayisdying @breadsquash @callmemana @callsignscupcake @chipperxbaby @cycbaby @dragon-kazansky @gracespicybradshaw @ladylanera @starlit-epiphany

[whiskeyswriting]

You Belong

| Song Inspiration: You Belong by Rachel Platten |

Time passes by and the Daggers all continue their work at training the new students. Each day that passes is a day closer to having these supposed best of the best graduate from Top Gun.

Jake and Alana continue their early morning gym dates. Today it was the same plan: gym, coffee, and drive to the base. 

Upon waking up, Alana groans as she gets up from bed. Her whole body aching. While she wasn’t a pilot, she still trained with them. This time the exercises and studying were getting to be too much for her to handle.

Alana barely managed to stay for fifteen minutes on the treadmill during her workout with Jake. 

She did everything she could to keep the pain and nausea down, but the fatigue kept getting worse every day that passed.

The next morning she had to call out after a night of non-stop vomiting. 

“Are you sure you don’t need me to stay?” Jake asks her as he brings her a cup of ginger and lemon tea.

“If I get worse I’ll call you. Go you’re already going to be late,” Alana whispers as her eyes close.

When she woke up a couple of hours later, Alana reached for her phone and texted her friends.

Cin🪅: Someone please end my misery. 😭

Lucky🍀: I know people that can get rid of Jake. 😏

Spicy🌶️: Why did I know she would say that? 🤔

Lucky🍀: Because you know and love me. 🤫

Cin🪅: I need some soup 🍲 or crackers…

Lucky🍀: I’m about to go up now… I’ll rush over once I’m done.

Spicy🌶️: Be there soon! 😘

Alana heads to the living room to sit on the couch. She tries to get some work done from home, but nausea continues to assault her. Setting her laptop to the side, Alana gingerly heads to the kitchen to get some ginger tea.   

While she waits for the tea to be done, Alana calls her Momma Cindy. “Momma…? I think I’m pregnant and I’m so scared.”

“Oh princess, I'll be right there. Want me to bring you a few tests to be sure?”

Alana can only sob out a soft yes.

The hour isn’t up when Cindy arrives. The first thing she does is take Alana in her arms and hugs her tightly. “It’s okay, princess. You’ll be okay. I’m here with you.”

Cindy helps Alana stay calm while they wait for the test results. “Want me to go with you to your doctor’s appointment?”

“No, it’s okay. I gotta do this one alone. Maybe the next one? Oh and don’t tell papa yet. I don’t want him trying to get Jake discharged from the Navy,” Alana teases.

The knock at the door alerts them that Grace arrived. Alana goes to open the door. “Thanks… I would invite you to stay but I think it’s a stomach bug so I don’t wanna pass it to you.” She hates lying to her best friend but, at the moment, Cin felt like she had no choice. 

She knew Grace and Bradley had been trying for a baby but hadn’t been successful. How could she rub it into their faces now?

Grace could tell Alana was hiding something but didn’t call her out on it. “Sure. Keep me posted, okay? I’ll bring you a few more soups tomorrow.”

“Thank you, love,” Alana tells her.

****

The next day Alana goes to see her off-base doctor confirmed the results. “Congratulations Alana. You’re pregnant. I want you to see Dr. Thompson as soon as possible. Actually, let me call her to see when she’s available.”

Luck was on Alana’s side, as Dr. Thompson had availability in the next hour. 

“Let’s do some an ultrasound and some blood work. Do you have any known medical allergies?”

“None that I’m aware of.” 

Alana and the doctor talk some more throughout the appointment. Alana was informed of what to expect during her pregnancy and what prenatal vitamins she should be taking. 

“Follow me and we’ll do the ultrasound,” Dr. Thompson says as she leads Alana to another section of her practice.

****

Alana’s knee is bouncing nervously as she waits for Jake to get to her office for lunch. The small sonogram pictures sat at her desk and she couldn’t stop staring at them. When he knocks at the door, Alana covers the sonogram so Jake won’t immediately see them.

“Hey! I thought you called out sick,” Jake says in greeting going around her desk to kiss her.

“I did initially but then I called to say that I would be late. It’ll be like this for the next few months.” She waits to see if he gets what she’s saying.

“Are you okay? Is it bad news?”

“More like life-changing news,” she says softly, handing him the sonogram pictures.

His teasing smirk fell as he was about to ask if she forged a doctor’s note. His eyes widen and he looks from Cin to the sonograms back to Cin. “You’re… We’re…”

The next thing she knows is he starts pacing around her office, running his hand through his hair. “I can’t do this. I’m too young!”

Cin sighs. “Are you done panicking so I can tell you to look at the sonograms again?” 

Jake’s brows furrow but he looks down again and notices Baby A and Baby B on the top right corners of each sonogram.

His face goes from shock to a huge smile. “TWINS!? We’re having twins!?” 

Alana nods with tears in her eyes. Jake rushes to pick her up and spins her. “No no!”

“Sorry!” He sets her down and kisses her tenderly. He places his hand over her stomach. “How did I not notice? You’ve lost a bit of weight and your girls look even better!”

“Down your horn dog,” Cin says laughing.

“What did the doctor tell you? Have you told anyone? When are you due?”

“All good questions: to start off only my Momma Cindy knows and now you… I’m due in just over 5 and a half months. I just made it past the 8 weeks or 2 months mark.”

“That’s how long you've been feeling tired and everything has been aching. It explains the face you made when I was cooking the other day.”

“What face?”

“Like if the scent or garlic made you sick to your stomach. I thought it was just you being dramatic to my cooking.”

Alana chuckled. “No babe you know I love when you cook. I’m glad your mama taught you that.”

****

Another week passes. Alana’s symptoms continue to increase. She’s limited her outings with the Daggers. It’s no surprise to her that Grace and Baylie are the first to notice and also that Alana isn’t drinking.

“Okay wifey. This is an intervention. Are you breaking up with us?” Baylie asks. "Jake isn't even THAT attractive. I can't believe you would break up with us for HIM."

Alana just stares at her blinking until the nausea comes up and she runs to the bathroom.

“Even the thought of him over us made her sick,” Baylie jokes with Grace as they wait for Alana.

Once she returns, Grace asks Alana. “How far along?”

“Nine weeks,” she says, laying down on the sofa. “And they’re killing me already.”

Baylie and Grace look at each other. “They’re… as in twins!?”

Alana nods but then starts sniffling. “I… I wasn’t sure how to tell either of you because I didn’t want either of you… I didn’t want to make you feel bad.”

She looks at both her friends before continuing. “Spicy… I know you and Brad have been trying and Lucky… I may not know what losing a baby is like but it must be difficult.”

Baylie is the first to hug her. “Oh Cin. You could never make us feel bad about two little babies coming into our lives. I can't wait to love on them.”

Grace hugs her next, playfully pushing Baylie away. “Oh love. No never. Don't think for one second I'm not over the moon happy for you. And it's double the babies to love and spoil. We'll be the best aunties ever.” She grins mischievously at Lucky.

“Oh yeah we’re going to spoil them rotten.”

****

The weeks continue to pass and Cin starts showing more of her bump. Then comes the appointment to find out the sex of the babies. The whole squad wants to go but they accept, some begrudgingly, that Jake should be the one to accompany Alana to the appointment.

The tech is smiling at them as they do the ultrasound. Rapid heartbeats fill the room. “Both heartbeats sound healthy and quite active… Ah here we go.”

Jake and Alana share happy tears when they’re told. “I already know what names I want,” Cin says first.

“I do too,” Jake says as he gives her a tender kiss and they leave to go tell their friends and family.

•‧:❤️:‧:❤️:‧•

The Usual Suspects: @askmarinaandothers @bayisdying @breadsquash @callmemana @callsignscupcake @chipperxbaby @cycbaby @dragon-kazansky @gracespicybradshaw @ladylanera @starlit-epiphany

[whiskeyswriting]

Friends That Become Family

A/N: This blurb takes place immediately after "Break On Me"

After the girls arrived, Baylie got a call from Mickey that he would be stopping by the house after picking up a friend coming to town for a funeral from the airport.

“Mickey will be here later,” she tells Alana.

“B is getting us pizzas and some drinks,” Grace tells her.

The girls help Alana shower and get back into bed. They had never seen her this broken. They each lay on either side of her and took turns keeping her asleep.

Meanwhile, Jake is setting up the living room to have Bradley and Mickey sleep there too in case of an emergency. 

When he’s done setting up the living room, Mickey and what Jake thinks is his twin, walk in. 

“Hey, Jake… This is my cousin Joaquin. He’s Air Force,” Mickey says.

Jake goes to greet him but the guy looks ready to tear down walls and burn bridges. 

Mickey whispers to Jake. “He lost his sister too. Their family is based here.”

Joaquin is preoccupied with a photo of three kids at the beach. “Miguel… You… Where is she?” 

“Who?”

“Lana.”

“How do you know her?” “What do you want with her?” Mickey and Jake ask him at the same time.

Joaquin points to the picture. “That’s me, my sister, and Lana.”

“Primo… What are you saying?”

“Lana is my cousin. Jax’s best friend!” 

The yelling of excitement and questions reach the room and Baylie comes out ready to fight. “I will kill whoever wakes her up.”

“Ah. Baylie right?” Joaquin asks.

“And you are cute but I don’t know who you are.”

“Amor… This is my cousin Joaquin. He’s Jax’s brother too… Making him…”

“Cin’s cousin…. HOLD THE PHONE? Fanboy and Cinco are cousins too!?” Baylie rushes upstairs to wake up Alana and Grace. She’s basically dragging Cin down the stairs.

When Alana catches sight of Joaquin, she runs to hug him. “Prima!”

“What are you doing here Joaquin?”

“Miguel picked me up at the airport.” 

“Miguel?” Alana asks and then sees Mickey waving. “Who Mickey?”

“Yes prima.”

“Wait… Do Sam and James know you’re here?”

Joaquin nods and they catch up. They shed more tears and some laughs at the stories of Jacqueline. They also remain in awe that nobody connected that Mickey and Alana shared the Torres as cousins making them family too. 

*****

The funeral service passes and Alana is sitting in her living room with Jax’s dog tags. 

“Hey. We came to check on you,” Mickey says softly once he enters. 

“Jax and I always said we’d get cousin tattoos but were never in the same deployment to go get them together.”

“Then lets you and me go. I know I’m not Jax but we’re not only friends but cousins too.”

That’s how Mickey and Alana ended with Star Wars tattoos in honor of Jacqueline “Jax” Torres.

--

The Usual Suspects: @askmarinaandothers @bayisdying @breadsquash @callmemana @callsignscupcake @callsignthirsty @cycbaby @dragon-kazansky @gracespicybradshaw @chipperxbaby @starlit-epiphany

[whiskeyswriting]

Hearts and Pucks In Play

A Top Gun Hockey AU

{ A/N: Dividers by @firefly-graphics }

3 hockey players.

1 figure skater.

4 Olympic candidates.

How will their lives change after Team USA chooses them for the next winter Olympics? What sacrifices will they make?

Bradley Bradshaw x Grace Smith

Bradley and Grace met in high school during their junior year orientation when Bradley accidentally spilled his coffee on Grace.

They immediately hit it off and started dating.

Bradley moved out to California a couple years after starting college.

Once Bradley was drafted by the NHL, he had Grace move with him from Texas.

Mickey Garcia x Baylie Steele

Mickey and Baylie meet during practice.

Baylie is Team USA’s skating princess.

Mickey knows she’s his forever the moment she goes against her coach’s direction and skates to her own song choice.

Their friendship and love grows every day since the moment they met. (They’re Team USA’s fave couple)

Jake Seresin x Alana Metcalf

Jake and Alana meet through Grace and Bradley.

Alana is Grace’s childhood best friend.

Jake needs a girlfriend to downplay his playboy persona.

Bradley sets them up as a “couple” until Alana’s ex shows up to ruin their plan.

--

Whiskey's Barrel: @askmarinaandothers @bayisdying @breadsquash @callmemana @callsignscupcake @cycbaby @dragon-kazansky @gracespicybradshaw @hisredheadedgoddess28 @ladylanera @starlit-epiphany

Whiskey's Pilots: @novagreen04

--

A/N: To be added to this (or other tag lists), please fill out the form located in this post.

[callmemana]

Arms May Be Wide Open, But The Brain Cells Aren’t There: #4

Bob: *puts feet on the table* I heard you liked bad boys.

Birdie: no?

Bob: *takes his feet off the table* good, that felt terrible.

Hangman: what the fuck are you doing?

Lucky: *hugging Hangy* I promised Cin I would make an effort to get along with you so we’re having a moment and if you ruin this Hangman I swear I will punch you in the dick so hard Cin will never be satisfied again, do you hear me?

Hangman: *sweats* uh, okay.

Whiskey: I’m ready to say three important words to you.

Slider: *touched* okay, let’s say it together.

[at the same time]

Slider: I love you.

Whiskey: choke me daddy.

Slider:

Slider: *experiencing technical difficulties*

Mouse: hey Slider, do you remember when I killed a butterfly and you said, ‘no butter for a week’?

Slider: yeah…

Birdie: and when I killed a honeybee and you said, ‘no honey for a week’?

Slider: yeah, that was months ago… so what?

Lucky: *smirking* well, Whiskey killed a cockroach today, should we break it to her?

Slider: *rolls his eyes* … just get the fuck outta my office

Mouse: *stubs toe on chair*

Birdie: *breaks chair*

Omaha: *hacks chair into sawdust*

Lucky: *sets chair on fire*

Lucky: wow the stars are beautiful

Fanboy: yeah they are

Lucky: you know who else is beautiful?

Fanboy: *blushes* who?

Lucky: me.

Birdie: taco cat backwards is still taco cat.

Birdie: race car backwards is still race car, too.

Bob: Angel, I love you, but it’s two in the morning. Please go back to sleep.

Birdie: dog food lid backwards is Dildo of God.

Bob: *pushes Bird off of the bed and snuggles back into the covers*

Dagger Squad: *sitting down on the couch or around it in front of Ice*

Ice: *arms crossed* okay. who did it?

Dagger Squad: *points to the chaos squad*

Whiskey: it was Rooster- wait- what is this treachery?!

Dragon: so much for family?!

[at a dagger squad + 86 family BBQ outside]

Ice: *walks into room, looks around and squints at Dragon*

Dragon: what?

Ice: where are the kids?

Dragon: in the garden.

Ice: doing what?

Dragon: *examining her nails* doing what kids do best.

Ice: *looks outside window and sees the whole garden is on fire*

Hangman: why did the chicken cross the road?

Birdie: why?

Hangman: to get to the idiot’s house. Knock knock.

Birdie: *sighing* who is it?

Hangman: the chicken.

Birdie:

Hangman:

Birdie:

Hangman:

Birdie: I won’t punch you… under one condition.

Hangman: … yeah?

Birdie: go say that joke to Lucky.

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

🏷️ list: @luckyladycreator2

[whiskeyswriting]

Ain’t Always The Cowboy

{ Song Inspiration: Ain’t Always The Cowboy by Jon Pardi }

The group of them had been enjoying the bonfire after the Founder’s Day parade. Laughs and drinks had been shared. The air was full of stories and love amongst the friends.

“Wait wait… Oh what was the name of that big shot bull rider that tried to help scam Whiskey…?” Baylie asked Grace.

“Ugh! Don’t get me started on how much I hate big city people,” Jake exclaimed.

Alana felt all eyes fall on her as Jake ranted on. “Yeah we’re the worst,” she says with a playful tone.

"You're far from being the worst..." Grace starts saying.

"He's just still mad Baylie dumped him to move to a big city," Bradley teases.

Alana looked between the two of them. “You two dated? I never knew.”

“Yeah we were high school sweethearts,” Baylie replies. “But now we’re not.”

“You’ll always be my first love Baylie,” Jake says smiling at her. “Even if you annoy me to death now.”

Once again, Alana looked between the two of them. Baylie was happily engaged to Mickey. Jake was the town's eligible bachelor. Alana couldn't help but wonder what would have been the cause of their breakup. She also wondered why he keeps glaring at her with anger in his eyes.

SEVEN YEARS EARLIER

Jake is driving to the Kazansky ranch after picking up some breakfast for him and Baylie. He brought a cooler full of ice and water to help her dad with some labor on the ranch. When he pulls up, he spots Baylie sitting at her window.

He smiles at just seeing her. They had just graduated high school and would both be starting community college in a few weeks.

Baylie had finished packing all that she needed to pack up. Rachael knocked on her door. “Bay? He just parked. Your dad and I are going to give you both some privacy.”

Everyone in town kept telling Baylie to break things off with Jake before he left her. “Bay… You know the cowboy always rides away. He’s going to leave you. High school sweethearts don’t always last.”

Baylie opens the door and hugs her mom. “I love you mom.”

Tom sends Jake up to Baylie’s room. His green eyes fill with confusion when he sees that her room is packed up. “Bay? What’s going on?”

“I’m not gonna beat around the bush Jake. We’re done.”

It ain't always the cowboy

That ain't got a lot of hang around

Jake nearly drops the coffee and breakfast. “What do you mean we’re done? Baylie we just had a date the other night and we were fine?”

“Well… Things change… people change. Listen Jake, I’m not going to be tied down to be your little wife to be getting knocked up and being barefoot just being a doormat for you. I’m going to Billings. I’m going to med school and becoming a doctor and this little town will never see me again.”

Ain't got no settle down in their boots

Gone's just what they do

“Baylie! You know that’s not how I see you or would treat you!”

“No I don’t. Maybe you turn out exactly like your uncles and father and become the cowboy that leaves me for someone younger…”

Her words felt like a buckshot to his heart. By his silent reaction, she knew she’d hit the mark. She grabs her backpack and puts it on. She then starts stacking a few boxes to take to her car.

“Bring me the boxes over there. It’s the least you can do before we’re really done.”

That restless runnin'

Searchin' for somethin'

He followed her down the stairs and to her car. “Baylie please! We can’t be over! I can go visit you… I can transfer to Billings…”

“Jake! Stop! I don’t love you anymore!” Baylie felt guilty lying but it was the only way he would let her go. After putting the boxes away, she climbs into her Jeep and closes the door before he can reach her.

“Goodbye Jake. Don’t call or text me. We have nothing else to say to each other. You’ll only hold me back.” With that, Baylie puts her car in drive and leaves.

Leavin' love in the dust of a midnight Chevrolet

It ain't always the cowboy that rides away

His eyes fill with tears as he watches her drive away. Drive away from him. From her parents. From her home. Driving away with a promise to never return.

PRESENT

“So that’s why I left Mount Deston for Billings,” Baylie says finishing the story.

“I remained angry at her for a few years. But after she came back we had a proper sit down talk about us.”

“We finally realized we both wanted different things from each other in high school and even now. I’ll admit apologizing to Jake for how I ended things helped me a lot. I eventually realized I hurt as much as he had hurt.”

Jake hold his beer up. “Besides she’s too stubborn to actually be my wife.”

Alana can’t help but roll her eyes at him. “I pity the woman you end up marrying if you keep that attitude.”

“Ha! Don’t worry doll it’ll never be you,” he replies to Alana with a wink.

“It’s okay. I’ll survive knowing the one that’s hung up on his high school girlfriend and won’t move on isn’t into me. I’ve been through worse.” Alana senses someone is watching her, and not just those sitting there at the bonfire.

She looks closer to the pier and the water when her eyes fall on him. She doesn’t need to see his face to know it’s him. She knows that body and the way his arms are crossed.

Alana doesn’t even say anything as she puts on her jacket and just leaves the bonfire.

- -

Cowboy AU 🏷️ List: @luckyladycreator2 @mischief-siriusly-managed

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- -

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[callmemana]

Arms Wide Open, Catch Me If I Fall:

Chapter 4: Birdie’s Eye View

Word Count: 5k+

🚨Warnings: inaccurate Naval descriptions, angst and floof.

A/N: dividers by @sligheach-sidhe , cover by me ( @callmemana ). Thank you @bayisdying for proofreading!

A/N: There will be a change, each chapter will be at least 3k word count. Also, this will be my main focus on writing.

After the big blow up with Bo, Bird walked to the Garcia’s with Ozzy following close behind.

Tears stained her cheeks as she made her way to her bedroom and cuddled with her dog.

She would go in tomorrow and talk with Cyclone about redacting the offer to join the team, if it wasn’t too late.

If Robert didn’t want her here, then she’s not gonna stick around to take anymore of his awful behavior.

He’s acting like he did the last week he was in Lemoore right before he broke her heart.

Bird was a forgiving person, but she didn’t know if she could forgive him for this.

She got up and started to pack everything but the essentials back up into the boxes, she’d ask for tape and help loading her truck tomorrow.

Ozzy kept trying to nip at her legs, telling her to stop.

But Bird’s mind was already set, as soon as she could she’d talk to the Air Boss and ask to be stationed back in Lemoore.

She was just finishing up her last box when Baylie and Mickey came home.

“Why are you packed? What happened between you and Bob?”questioned Lucky.

“He was an asshole and pretty much told me he didn’t want me here. I’m going to talk to Cyclone tomorrow about being transferred back to Flordia. I’m not staying somewhere where the only person I really know doesn’t want me to be.”

“Maybe he was just surprised to see you is all,” offered Mickey.

Bird laughed humorlessly, “Trust me Mickey, what he said wasn’t because of that. I mean, seriously! How stupid am I to come here thinking that he’d be happy to see me? He was right, I ruin everything.”

Tears prickled at her eyes as she fixes her glasses.

“Birdie, what do you mean?” insisted Lucky, teeth slightly grinding together.

“Hey, you haven’t ruined anything.” reassured Mickey.

“He said that the whole week before he left, said I ruined his life and everything I touch. I can’t do that to you guys too.”

“Bird, you haven’t ruined anything for us, if anything you’ve made our lives better.”

“How? I’ve done nothing but cause trouble since I got here!” she cried, taking her glasses off to clean them of tears.

Baylie pulls her into a hug and Mickey joins soon afterwards.

“Because you have made our grey outlook on Bob turn to color. We only knew him as the shy man he is, and now, we might be able to see an outgoing, sarcastic, and whatever else he’s hidden from us, man.”

“You just don’t know him well enough yet. He was shy when we first met at bootcamp.”

“Oh, we need to know all of the stories about the young Robert Floyd.” declared Lucky.

Ozzy ran over and decided to also join the group hug, giving everyone sloppy puppy-kisses all over their faces.

“Oz, Ozzy, ok, ok, thank you bubs!” laughed Birdie as she lightly pushed him away, fixing her glasses on her nose.

She sniffled and wiped her eyes, standing up in the process to head to her room.

“I best be gettin’ to bed, I gotta be up early to see Cyclone anyhow. Thank you both for everything.”

The couple gave smiles and bids her goodnight.

The next morning Bird does her morning routine, walks Ozzy, and drives to base earlier than necessary.

She’s trying to navigate her way to the Air Boss’s office when she accidentally bumps into someone.

“Oh I’m so sorry! Here lemme help you,” blurted Bird as she immediately gets to the ground and starts to pick up the scattered papers and folders.

The woman was olived skinned and dark brown curly haired.

“It’s not a problem, I can pick them up myself, I wasn’t watching where I was going anyway.” the woman laughed, holding her hand out towards Amanda.

“I’m Alana Metcalf, most people here call me Cinco or Cin. Are you new? I saw that you were looking a little lost.”

She took the woman’s outstretched hand and shook.

“I’m Amanda Hallett, callsign Birdie, but I also go by Bird. I’m not gonna lie, I am incredibly lost.” Bird laughed, cheeks burning a bright pink.

“Well maybe I can help, who are you looking for?”

“The Air Boss, Beau Simpson. I need to talk with him about transferring back to my old base.”

“Oh, did something happen? Not enjoying San Diego?” she asked.

“You could say that. I just don’t think it’s a good fit for me.”

“Ah, I see. An ex is here huh?”

Birdie’s eyes widen and jaw slacked, “How did you know that?”

“I’m kinda friends with Bob and the dagger squad. Actually, my boyfriend is on the team too.”

“Oh…” said Bird before she put on a fake smile, “what’s his name?”

Cinco could see through the smile, but decided to table that for later when she could speak to Bob.

“Jake Seresin, but his callsign is Hangman.”

“Sounds dangerous.”

“He is sometimes,” nodded Cin, “It’s because he always hangs his wingmen out to dry.”

“And he’s on a team? He sounds like he’s an ass. No offense!”

Cin laughs, “None taken, I know he can be one. He’s shown it many of times.”

The two women stopped infront of a wooden door with a name plate that read, ‘Simpson.’

“Anyway, here’s Cyclone’s office. I hope that you reconsider going back, I can tell that you will be a big part of our lives already.”

“And how can you tell, you just met me Cin.” Bird questioned jokingly.

“Because that man’s eyes still sparkle when you come up in conversation. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Bob like this and I can’t wait to see how it ends.”

“So, you know?” she asked, eyes casted down.

“No, but I don’t think I need to know more than that he loves you.”

“He might’ve before, but he doesn’t now. Thanks for being my guide, I appreciate it.”

Bird gave the woman a little wave as she knocked on the thick door, waiting for the ‘Come in.’

Once the command was given, she entered and saluted the Air Boss.

“You are relieved, Leutenant,” he declared, looking up briefly to see who was there.

“Hello Vice Admiral Simpson, I was wondering if it was too late to ask if the contract could be void and I could be stationed back in Lemoore?”

“Not liking the company Hallett? I believe at one point in your first time here, you were very close to Leutenant Floyd.”

“Yes sir, we were, but recently ended our relationship.”

“How sad. Unfortunately, Hallett, it’s already been cleared and recorded. You’re stuck here until farther notice.”

“But Sir-”

“I didn’t ask for excuses, Leutenant. Just be glad it’s only for six months. Now if your done,” He shifted his eyes to the door.

That was not the news Bird thought she would be getting, Cyclone never liked her anyway.

So why does he have to be so determined to keep her here?

Unless he thinks this will be torture for her being near Robert, which it most likely will be.

She exited the room, leaving his door open just to piss him off more.

Bird went down the hallway a little and braced her back on the wall, groaning loud.

“Well who do we have here?” a woman with a British accent asked.

“I’m sorry if I interrupted you ma’am, I’m Leutenant Hallett.”

“No harm done here, I was just having breakfast at my desk with my friend. I’m Rachael Kazansky.”

Bird looked at her phone screen, checking the time. The meeting with Cyclone went on longer than she initially thought.

“I am so sorry but, I have to get to the hanger. It was nice meeting you though!”

Dragon smiled as the blonde woman scurried off.

She arrived late, the high ranks already in the room and stood off to the side.

“Nice of you to finally join us Leutenant Hallett,” announced Cyclone.

“I’m so sorry, Cyclone! Someone told me to go to Hell, I couldn’t find it at first, but guess what? I finally found it! And I just knew I’d see you here too!”

“Everyone, this is Leutentant Amanda ‘Birdie’ Hallett, graduated second at Top Gun in her class.” stated Maverick, a wide smirk on his features.

Robert muttered a displeased, “Birdie.”

Laughter poorly covered up could be heard around the hanger, mostly by the students. When Bird looked over at Warlock, he winked at her with an amused smirk on his face too.

“Back on the agenda, Maverick.”

“We will be doing an exercise to start training for an upcoming mission. The hard deck is at ten thousand feet and will not be broken this time. We’ll take Hangman, Rooster, Coyote, and Birdie first. Get suited up.”

With that, we all filed out of the door and headed to the locker room.

“You must have a big pair of balls on you if you can sass Cyclone without hesitation.” said a tall, blond haired man with sea green eyes.

“Cyclone’s had it out for me since my first time at Top Gun. Bob and I got yelled at all the time by him.” Birdie said as she rolled her eyes.

“Wrong, you and Thena got yelled at and Smiley and me tried to get you out of it.” smiled Bob.

“Yeah right, like I don’t remember the reason you got your callsign. You are just as much of a troublemaker Bo.”

She didn’t see the smirks and looks exchanged by the others.

“Since y’all know my name, I think it’s only fair I know your’s.” stated Bird.

A dark skinned man with a mustache spoke first, “I’m Reuben Fitch, Payback and Fanboy’s pilot.”

The next was another dark skinned man, a little lighter in shade, “Javy Machado, Coyote.”

“I’m pretty well known everywhere I go. Jake Seresin, callsign; Hangman.”

“Wow, maybe you should take the dick outta your personality. Your ego isn’t as big as you think.”

“So what I’m hearing is that you think-”

“Finish that sentence, and I’ll sack you so hard that your grandkids will feel your pain.”

“Damn, she doesn't play.” said a man with a 70’s porn-stache.

“Damn straight, and you are?”

“Bradley Bradshaw, Rooster.” he held out his hand, which she gladly took.

“It’s nice to meet you Rooster.”

They all came to the doors that separated the locker rooms.

The women went into the one on the left, the guys on the right.

Bird was halfway out of her civilian clothes when a small, shy woman came up to her.

“Hi, I’m Raven Mouse Fischer. I haven’t been on the team very long, but if you need any help with anything, I’d be more than glad to help!” chirped Mouse with a wide smile.

“Thank you Mouse, I might have to take you up on that offer,”

“I’m Bob’s pilot, Natasha Phoenix Trace. It’s nice to meet you.”

“It’s nice to meet you too, Natasha. Thank you for keeping him safe when I couldn’t, I appreciate it more than you know.”

Phoenix was a little surprised when Bird brought her into a tight hug.

After the little meet and greet in the locker room, everyone was outside in the hanger getting ready to get in the jets.

Bird had her sky blue helmet on with the bird silhouette on the front with her callsign under and her squadron on the sides.

She wanted to have someone pat the top to ‘see if it works’ but didn’t want to ask anyone yet.

Bird saw Bo and looked away, there was no way she’d ask the man who had made a new crack in her heart not too long ago to do the preflight ritual with her.

“What’s wrong Bird?” asked Rooster as he stood by her plane.

“Nothin’, just missing old traditions we used to do before flying.”

“What did you do before?” he smiled, looking down at her.

“Used to smack the top of our helmets so we could ‘see if it was good’ and now I don’t have anyone to do that with.”

Without second thought, Rooster slapped his hand against the top of her helmet and whispered, “Good luck Bird. You don’t have to be scared to ask us to continue the traditions you did back in Lemoore, if they make you feel comfortable or a superstition you have we will help make you calm.”

Bird’s cheeks burned slightly, “Thank you Roos, I appreciate that.”

Bradley lightly pounds his fist on the top of her helmet again, “Anytime Bird. We’re all family now.”

She nods, looking away from him briefly before the other two men join them.

“Ready to fly Bird and Chicken?” asked Hangman, a smirk on his face.

“Yeah, Bagman, let’s get in the sky.”

It took a while but soon all were in the air with the oxygen masks on and communication was silent.

Bird was flanked by the men, all looking around for Maverick and seeing nothing.

“So what’s your story Birdie?”

“You don’t have to answer if you don’t wanna, Bird.”

“It’s fine. Grew up in the midwest, went to bootcamp and then after I graduated I went to Top Gun.”

“What about when you met Baby On Board?”

Rooster’s voice cracked through the radios, “Leave her alone, Bagman.

“Woah man, we’re just trying to get to know our fellow aviator Rooster.”

Bird rolled her eyes at the men, typical.

“I’ll leave that to Robert when the time comes and HE wants to tell you.”

“Ooooh, she’s super mad if she’s using your name and not your callsign huh Baby On Board?”

“Why do you always have to be a dickhead, Bagman?”

“I wouldn’t say ‘always,’ I did save your life Chicken.”

“He did,” echoed Coyote.

Rooster was quiet after that and started to go a little farther ahead of them.

They flew for a little longer in silence before Coyote voiced everyone’s concern, “Where’s Mav?”

All four of us looked around, not seeing anything. “Oh fuck, he’s under our noses.”

After that was said, Maverick came up from out of nowhere. “Good Afternoon Aviators.”

Bird was the first to move out of the way, Rooster following her and Hangman and Coyote breaking off to the left.

The fight was on.

It took twenty six minutes for Maverick to shoot all of us down.

If we were supposed to be the best of the best, how come it took so little time for him to beat us in a dog fight?

Bird got out of her jet, took off her helmet and then gripped it in her fist angrily. She knew she could be better than she performed today, otherwise she wouldn’t be back at Top Gun.

“Don’t let this bring you down, we all got our asses handed to us and I bet you everyone will today too.” Rooster shook her shoulders lightly and a smile on his face.

Hangman and Coyote came over to her plane again and praised her flying as they all made their way to the rec room where everyone else is.

Once inside the room and out of the blazing sun, she saw that Bob was still sitting right infront of the radio with eyebrows furrowed and bitting him lip.

What was he so worried about, he had no right to be for me. He lost it the day he broke my heart.

It was later in the day when everyone had failed and walking back to the locker rooms that everyone was talking and laughing together again.

“So Bird, would you like to go to the Hard Deck later?” asked Mickey, a smile on his face.

“No thank you, Mickey. I should unpack, I’m going to be here for a while.”

“Oh that’s great to hear, how long?” chirped Mouse.

“I’m here for six months, then wherever they send me afterwards.”

Lucky glares at Bob, angry at that he almost made her go away.

“We can help if you need?”

Bird smiled, “Thanks for the offer, but it won’t take too long.”

“Well if you end up needing help, don’t be afraid to call any of us.”

“She wouldn’t need you Bagman, Birdie has Mickey and me to help. Also stay away from my house or I’ll kick your ass.”

Jake put his arms up in mock surrender, eyes wide and a smirk on his lips.

The three of them went back inside the Hard Deck and grabbed the others and went out back to talk on the deck.

Once all of the aviators had sat down, Bob took a deep breath.

“I think I might owe y’all an explanation on why I’ve been acting so short tempered lately.”

“I’d say.”

“Shut up, let him speak!”

“Yeah, I wanna hear why.”

“Well, before we left for the mission, I was engaged,” he took his dogtags out of his shirt and showed the ring.

A dainty little gold ring that looked as if it was sticks with small diamonds decorating it was on the chain.

“To an aviator named Birdie. I broke off the engagement and then moved to San Diego a week later.”

Bob ran his hands in his already messed up hair, “So when Lucky was giving hints as to who the new member was, she was just reminding me of her. I didn’t want to think about Bird, so instead I got angry and shut everyone out. I’m sorry.”

“Why? Why break up with her, she’s a pilot too. She’d understand.”

Bob laughed sadly, “Because I’m in idiot. I don’t really want to get into it tonight.”

“Hate to break it to you Baby On Board, but I already kinda knew. Seriously, I mean, did you forget that I have access to personal and personnel records?” sassed Cinco.

“I’m so glad that you found your forever Bob and I can’t wait to meet her! What’s she like? Chirped Mouse.

Baylie took point in answering this, “She’s amazing, beautiful, fantastic, lovely, smart, funny, sweet…”

“Okay, we get it Bay, if we weren’t married you’d marry bird and make her one of your sister wives.”

“Damn right I would, too bad I’m stuck with your ugly ass.”

“Ouch.”

“Can we please get back to the matter at hand?”

Bay shrugged while Mickey put his hands up in mock surrender.

“As you were saying Bob?”

“I messed up and broke up with her the harshed way possible so she wouldn’t think about me when I was on the mission. And with her back in my life I can’t help but have those feelings again.”

“So you never got over her?” questioned Phoenix, eyebrows furrowed.

Bob shook his head, “No. She’s my everything. I’ve known her since I was eighteen, we met on the first day of bootcamp. I knew by the end of our first date that I was gonna marry her.”

Dragon and Whiskey just screamed in happiness at the confession, they had never really heard Bob speak so passionately about love before and wanted nothing more than to hear everything he had to say.

Mouse was the first to speak, “That’s really sweet and I’m happy you found someone who makes you feel like that, but…” she took a deep breath, trying to find the right words that wouldn’t offend him, “If that’s true, why did you end things with her?”

Lucky stood behind Mouse, arms crossed and head nodding to the words that the shy woman had said and added. “You really are a dumb motherfucker aren’t you Robert?”

Tom and Ron exchanged glances before nodding in agreement with their pseudo daughters, only to get smacked by their wives in the back of the head.

The other guys had awkwardly chugged their drinks and avoided eye contact with Bob, not wanting to be caught and having to defend the man.

Rooster, that sap, was the one to speak first, “Do you still want to marry her? Just hearing what you have to say about Bird tells me that you aren’t over her yet.”

Bob answered immediately, “Of course I still want to be with her and marry Bird. I have no doubt in my mind that’s always been her in my heart and always will be.”

“Then we’ll do everything we can do to help you get her back. I don’t speak for everyone, just for me, but I want to see you happy and I get the feeling that the only person who can make you happy, is Birdie.”

Bob smiles, a sight the Dagger Squad hadn’t seen for a while, “She does, she really, really does make me happy.”

Hangman slaps a hand over Bob’s shoulders, “I’ll help you Baby On Board.”

One by one they come up and touch Bob’s shoulders or the top of his head, all agreeing with Jake.

He gave a half smile now that he knew his friends were going to help, he felt his chances of getting his Bird back rise.

Not too long after that the crowd became too much for his wandering mind, so he went home.

The next day on base was awkward to say the least. He knew she was in San Diego, but what he didn’t know was when she would show up at Top Gun.

Maverick had already started the lesson with all of the high ups behind him and to the side.

There was a door being abruptly opened and everyone looked back as Vice Admiral Simpson spoke, “Nice of you to finally join us Lieutenant Hallett.”

She walked her way down the middle of the desks in the many rows that the other aviators sat at before she opened her mouth to no doubt sass the man.

“Birdie.” he whispered breathlessly, head casted down.

She sat down and the lesson went on while the others giggled or laughed behind hands or coughs.

Maverick picked four of us to go into the air for the first flight test and after a weird interaction in the hall to the locker rooms, everyone else crossed the tarmac and made their way in the break room.

Bob kept his sights on Bird the whole way, she glanced at him as she walked to her jet. He couldn’t get the thought out of his head. The happy memories that the two shared while back in Lemoore.

He missed the preflight ritual that they did, along with smiley and Athena. Bob gave a half-assed smile, but that didn’t last too long when he saw Bradley pat her on the head while she wore her helmet.

He can still remember the day that she got her helmet and designed it. Bird was so proud of herself, she hadn’t painted in years and was worried that it wouldn’t come out how she wanted.

Another great memory that he had made with her. Bob wasn’t really paying attention to the conversation from the radio, more on watching the sky and his Birdie fly like she belonged there.

When the exercise was over and the four pilots entered the recreation room, Bob’s focus came back into the world.

He was worried for her, he knew how taxing mentally it was to be called the best of the best, only to be shot down so quickly.

He knew that he had no right to be anxious about her. First this wasn’t a real mission, just a practice.

Secondly, she wasn’t his fiancee anymore, he held no claim to her. Especially after the way he acted the last week in Flordia.

Mickey patted his back as both got up and headed to the tarmac, pilots following their WSO’s, today was just going to be hard for him it seems.

After everyone had gone twice and shot down, both times, the day was over and everyone went to the locker room to change into civvies.

“So Bird, would you like to go to the Hard Deck later?” asked Mickey with a smile on his face as the group walked down the halls and to the parking lot.

“No thank you Mickey. I should unpack, I’m going to be here for a while.”

“Oh, that’s great to hear, how long?” chirped Mouse.

Bob was happy that she’d be staying, he really wanted to take the time and win her heart and trust back.

He felt Lucky’s anger through the glare she was giving him as they walked. Bob knew he deserved it ten times over.

Robert knew that once they heard the whole story, they’d hate him, Hell he hates himself still.

“We can help if you need?”

Bird smiled, “Thanks for the offer, but it won’t take too long.”

“Well if you end up needing help, don’t be afraid to call any of us.”

“She wouldn’t need you Bagman, Birdie has Mickey and me to help. Also stay away from my house or I’ll kick your ass.”

Jake put his arms up in mock surrender, eyes wide and a smirk on his lips. Bob rolled his eyes, he hates when Hangman’s ego acts up.

They all go their separate ways and plan to meet up a little later at The Hard Deck for drinks.

When Bob got home he immediately collected clean clothes from his bedroom and then got into the shower to wash away the day.

He didn’t feel like wearing his Khakis today at the bar so he opted out for an old Carhartt shirt, jeans, and that trucker hat he loves so much but never really wears anymore.

Bob grabbed his keys to the old Chevy truck and drove to the local Navy bar. After he parked, he didn’t really want to go inside, he knew by the cars that everyone is here again.

With a large sigh, he turned off the truck and went through the doorway of the building.

Immediately Bob spotted his found family and threw himself on the cushioned booth seat, surrounded by the group and handed a cup of water that had already been on the table.

Silence wasn’t something that the Dagger Squad did often, but when it was, it's because they were thinking.

It brought warmth to his heart that they actually wanted to help him, but also worried him for when they realized just what type of man he was.

Even if he only did what he did to not break her heart more if he didn’t make it from the Uranium mission alive.

He knew it was only a matter of time before they either kicked his ass or never talked to him again.

Which he deserves, no doubt in his mind about that.

Lucky being the biggest threat if the story got out, she already saw Birdie as a little sister and is protective of her.

He’s seen Baylie’s rage and never wants to be on the receiving end of it, but that might just be what happens.

Dragon was the first to speak after the silence had stopped, “So, what are you thinking about doing to get her back?”

Bob shakes his head chuckling nervously, “Honestly Dragon, I don’t have a Goddamn clue, Amanda won’t even look at me for longer than a second and barely talked to me today.”

“Oh yeah ‘Bo,’ she barely talked to you.”

His head snaps to Lucky, anger in his eyes. “You can’t call me that.”

Bob knows that Baylie won’t back down and he wouldn’t be surprised if she probably already knows the story or at least a little bit of it.

“How bout Bam? Can I call you Bam?” she questions sarcastically, Bird obviously told Mickey and her something about his childhood.

“No and you never call me anything but Robert or Bobby so stop using Birdie to get under my skin.”

“Why when it clearly works so well.” she smirked, the others around him smirking too.

They were all very entertained by this and he didn’t like that just bringing up something about his past could get him so angry.

“Children.” demanded Cinco, done with the fighting.

“Anyway,” said Dragon, getting them back on topic, “we need to start small, so she doesn’t get suspicious of what we’re doing.”

They all nodded, agreeing with her. Now they just have to brain storm ideas until they find the best one for Bob to start gaining Bird’s trust and friendship again.

Some ideas that were thrown out didn’t sound like something that Bob would do, more of a Jake thing.

Big gestures and an exclamation of how sorry he is, Bob is more of the quiet type, small gestures and slowly gaining the relationship back the right way.

It took many hours and many rounds of beer and water (for himself) before the group decided on a plan and paid their tabs before going home.

Bob stopped Mickey as they exited the bar, his friend slowly turned around, a smile on his face.

“How is she doing? Is she settingly in nicely?”

The other wizzo lightly slaps his back,“She’s doing good Bob and I’m not gonna lie to you, because you're my friend, she seems sad. She’s putting on a happy act for us, but we can see it in her eyes. Bird keeps busy around the house when we get home from base. If she can’t find anything to clean, she’s either in her room or walking Ozzy.”

Bob smiles, “Birdie has two brothers so she was the only sibling to actually clean when asked and her room was her get away from her brothers who pestered her a lot. I’m worried about her, Mickey. I hate to see her like this, this girl has been nothing but smiles and rainbows and I don’t think I’ve seen her this way except the last night I was in Lemoore.”

“Hey man, like I said yesterday, we’re gonna help you get her back. This is the first time I’ve seen you smile since the wedding and if she can do that by just being in the same room as you or even just being mentioned, I think what you have is worth the it.”

Bob gave Mickey a little side hug before they went to their cars. Lucky was in the front seat of the Garcia’s Jeep, blasting music and headbanging to the lyrics, making the men laugh.

He took off towards his house, listening to her favorite song and smiling like a total idiot.

Birdie’s Basket🧺: @dragon-kazansky @mrsjaderogers @bayisdying @starlit-epiphany @gracespicybradshaw

🏷️ list: @luckyladycreator2 @interstellarloneliness

[callmemana]

Chaos Squad:

These are friends who write fanfics with Original Characters they created and wrote for + other wonderful chaos squad members!

Dragon ( @dragon-kazansky ):

Whiskey/Cinco ( @whiskeyswriting ):

Lucky ( @bayisdying ):

Spicy ( @tngrace ):

Mouse ( @faerieroyal ):

Raccoon ( @breadsquash ):

Scarlet ( @askmarinaandothers ):

Venom ( @cycbaby ):

Cupcake ( @callsignscupcake ):

Black Mistress ( @mischief-siriusly-managed ):

Rowdy ( @callsignthirsty ):

Lan ( @ladylanera ):

[tngrace]

Once Upon a Bradbaby

Meet Caroline

I'm pretty sure @cycbaby gets thanks for the title. It was just too cute not to use. This was a joy to write and I can't wait to write the other kid fics. I hope yall enjoy 💙

🏷: @dragon-kazansky @mrsjaderogers @bayisdying @askmarinaandothers @cycbaby @callsignscupcake @breadsquash @ladylanera

Grace knew the day they decided they were ready to expand their family that it wouldn't be an easy road due to her pcos. But she honestly didn't know how hard it would be, what an emotional rollercoaster it would actually entail. They decided to keep it private, Grace not wanting everyone to constantly be disappointed. She knew it was hard on Bradley keeping it a secret, but he did it for her.

The first year came and went with no results. She finally broke down and told Lucky and Cin one night at girls night when she'd had too much to drink. Her friends understood more than anything, and they just held her as she cried her eyes out. Lucky told Bradley what happened when he picked her up and she was already asleep. "Thanks girls," he whispered, accepting his own hugs from them.

Come July when she had her yearly, her doctor recommended they start testing. She went the beginning of August for a test to see if her tubes were even open and thankfully they were. She wasn't ready to start meds yet, but it was something they were considering. She was honestly afraid they would have to consider the fertility route and she wasn't sure they'd be able to afford it. She was trying to hold out hope that it would happen, but every period seemed to diminish it even more.

She loved all the trying just as much as Bradley. The sex was fantastic if she was being honest, and she loved how much Bradley wanted her, and wanted her to feel loved no matter what. When Cin announced her pregnancy, she was over the moon for her friend, but her heart broke just a little. It broke a little more when Lucky also got pregnant. Neither were planned, and she was truly excited to be an aunt. She couldn't wait, but she also cried that she couldn't give this to Bradley. She knew he'd make an amazing dad and she couldn't wait to see him as an uncle either. Her heart was just battered and bruised.

What she didn't know was that she was already three months pregnant when Lucky found out she was expecting. The tube test had flushed her tubes, and she'd gotten pregnant, but because she continued to have light and irregular periods she never realized it. With her having already gained back some of the weight she lost, her body didn't really change as her pregnancy progressed either.

They're at the Hard Deck one night about three months later, Grace having taken her break to hang out with everybody. She'd been feeling off all day, and Penny had tried to get her to go home, but she insisted she was fine. "Babe you ok?" Bradley asks quietly as she rests with her head on his shoulder, the conversation just swirling around her.

"Yea… just felt off all day. Penny told me to go home but I should stay busy." She cracks her jaw with a yawn and Bradley winces.

"Maybe you don't have to," he whispers. He knows she should start tomorrow and he knows she wants to stay busy to forget about it. But he'd be lying if didn't say he was at least a little bit hopeful they'd made a baby.

"I wish," she mumbles. A guy passes their table and his cologne is so strong, it almost knocks her over. Her stomach rolls, and Bradley swears he watches her turn green.

"Grace?"

She shakes her head and darts to the bathroom. Her head is hurting, she's tired and she just wants to cry. She's so tired of her body fucking with her. Bradley follows her, but since the bar is busy, he doesn't follow her in despite wanting too. He snags Lucky from the pool table, and sends her in. Grace is splashing water on her face trying to hold back tears.

"I'm fine Bay. I promise. I don't know what happened."

"You don't look fine." Her best friend has always been blunt and she appreciates it.

She gives her a soft chuckle before Cin joins them as well. "Everything ok Spice?"

"Yea. Just…" she shrugs. "Just my body fucking with me as usual. Should start tomorrow. I don't know what happened out there but I'll be fine. Might take Pen up on her offer to go home though."

The girls don't push, even though Baylie really wants too. They hug her and then follow her out, Bradley still by the door. "I'm fine. Nothing happened," she reassures him.

He wraps his arm across her shoulder holding her close. "Think we should head home?"

"Yea, I think so," she sighs. She knows he won't leave her side tonight and she loves him all the more for it, even if she feels bad that he's cutting his night short. "I'm just gonna go make sure they're good in the kitchen then I'll be back. Tell Penny for me?"

"Of course." He kisses her forehead and sends her off. Baylie keeps a close eye on her as she heads for the kitchen.

"Think she's ok?" Alana asks Baylie quietly following her gaze.

"No, probably not. But she will be." She gives Alana a sad smile, both of them wishing they could make it better. Before they can voice those thoughts though a clatter in the kitchen catches their attention and they head there, Bradley hot on their heels.

"I don't know what happened. She was fine and then she swayed and she hit the floor before I could reach her," Stacie says. She helps Grace in the kitchen a lot, especially on busy nights.

"She wasn't feeling good. It's ok Stacie. We got her," Alana reassures her, Baylie and Bradley already trying to wake Grace.

"Come on beautiful. We're going to the doctor," Bradley murmurs as she starts coming too.

"I'm fine," she whines.

"Clearly you're not," Baylie says unimpressed. Grace pouts, but in the next instant, she doubles over the garbage can puking. Baylie and Alana share a look, before sharing one with Bradley. "I don't think your body is just fucking with you," Baylie says gently.

Grace wipes her eyes of the tears, as Bradley holds her against him. "Tell that to the negative test then."

"We'll go with you, but we should probably go figure out what happened since you fainted," Alana offers instead.

"Fine," she sighs. Bradley grabs her things and the four of them head out to the Bronco. They find the closest walk-in clinic and they're luckily seen right away. They run some test and draw some blood, Grace focusing on Bradley and her friends during that so she doesn't pass out again. Baylie and Alana do an awesome job of distracting her while they wait and Bradley is thankful they're there.

"Well Mrs. Bradshaw it seems you are pregnant. I would recommend making an appointment with your OB in the morning and we'll happily send all this over."

Bradley and Grace are stunned; Baylie and Alana are ecstatic. "I told you," Baylie smiles.

"Wait, it's not possible. I've still had a period."

"Sometimes that happens. We want to do an ultrasound to confirm but your doctor will be better able to explain all of this to you."

Grace grabbed Bradley's hand effectively breaking him out of his shock. He leans over and kisses her, wiping her tears as the tech sets up around them. It doesn't take long before they hear a steady heartbeat and see their baby on the screen.

"Omg it's real. I…" Grace cries harder, Baylie and Alana taking quick videos for them. Bradley rests his forehead against hers, his own silent tears falling. "It's real," he whispers.

The tech wipes her stomach off, and Bradley helps her sit up. The tech explains that she's about six months along and everything looks just fine. They get a printout and then the Dr sends them on their way. They drop the girls back off at the Hard Deck to their husband's, after Grace hugs them both tight. "Thank you for being there," she whispers to them both.

"No where else we'd rather be," they assure her. She promises to call them tomorrow after her appointment.

After that things move smoothly. She has a May due date and the baby seems perfectly healthy. The nursery comes together easily despite the couple refusing to find out if it was a boy or girl. They'd been surprised up until this point, they figured what was one more.

By March, Baby B has decided to make mama feel as large as a house. It's almost like now that the secret is out, her body has decided to show all the signs of pregnancy. The baby still measures on the smaller side, but Grace swears she feels huge. Bradley dotes on her constantly too. He loves seeing her body change with pregnancy, even if it's just little things. Their friends declare them sickly sweet, even if Jake isn't any better with Alana.

By April, Grace is counting down the days until May. She doesn't get along that great with the girl they've hired to fill in for her, but they were desperate with only her for an applicant. She just can't wait to be away from the bitch. Then Baby B likes to play soccer with her bladder, loves when Daddy talks to him or her making them more excited, and absolutely refuses to want to sleep at night unless Bradley sings. "You already have our child spoiled," Grace pouts one night when she can't get comfortable.

Bradley's rubbing her back as he softly sings with a smile on his face. "That a bad thing?" he teases.

"No," she sighs resting her hands over his on her belly.

"Think you can sleep now?" Bradley starts playing with her hair, a sure fire way to put her to sleep, as he leaves one hand on her belly. The baby seems to have settled, and Bradley's back rub left her feeling relaxed.

"Yea I think so," she yawns as she snuggles up against him.

The next day, Baylie and Alana come to the Hard Deck to hang out with her while she works on finishing the blonde bitch's training. She knows Baylie has been dying to put this girl in her place, especially after the bitch hit on Jake and Mickey the other night. What she didn't expect however was for the girl to be dumb enough to provoke Baylie using Grace and the boys as her driving points that day.

It spiraled quickly into an all out brawl, Alana and Grace standing back watching as Penny called in the boys for backup. It only took a few punches for Baylie to make her point, and then she's tossing her out of the bar, threatening her to never come back. "Mickey's gonna kill us," Grace sighs as she gets Baylie set at a table and starts cleaning her knuckles. She gets her some ice too just as the boys arrive.

"You ok?" Bradley asks her, wrapping his arms around her waist.

"Yea. We're ok. Though Penny doesn't have a replacement for me, and your sister has some bruised knuckles again."

Bradley sighs as he looks over Lucky's hand. "She was a straight up bitch to your wife," Baylie says unapologetically. "Someone was glossing over how bad it really was," she says with a pointed look at Grace.

"You know I can handle myself sometimes. I have learned a thing or two from you."

"Not with my niece or nephew in there though. She was walking all over you."

Grace sighs as Alana agrees with Baylie on this one. "You girls ok?" Penny asks now that blondie is out of the bar.

"Yea we're good. Although now…"

"Don't even. We'll figure it out. Stacie can probably handle it and we can always just close the kitchen some nights. It's fine."

"Don't think I haven't noticed your winces either," Alana pops up from where Jake is rubbing her back.

"I'm fine," Grace groans as Bradley instantly is on alert. His hands go to her back to start rubbing, knowing exactly where she's hurting the most. The back rub feels amazing, and she won't admit she's been hurting all morning. "I'm gonna go set up the kitchen for tonight. Need anything?" She asks them.

"I think you're taking the night off," Penny insists.

"Pen…"

"Nope. You're taking the night off Grace. You need it. We'll figure the kitchen out some other time. I made it just fine before. A few weeks for you to be off won't hurt us."

"Thank you," she sighs, hugging Penny. At the same time she feels her legs get wet. She freezes, looking down to see the floor wet. "Oh shit," she murmurs.

"Well, you are definitely off now," Penny laughs.

"Its… no. It's too early. We still have four weeks to go." They all see the panic on her face as Bradley pulls her back against her chest.

"Go. Go. We'll go get the bag from the house and meet you there," Baylie says jumping them all into action. She hugs Grace tight. "It's going to be ok. Get to the hospital and we'll meet you there."

"I'll call everybody," Penny promises. They help Grace to the Bronco, Jake and Alana insisting they drive so Bradley doesn't have to. "Well meet you there," Baylie promises.

She and Mickey go to the house using their spare key to get in. They find Grace's bag in her closest, the baby bag and carseat inside the door of the nursery. Jake speeds to the hospital, Bradley holding Grace in the backseat. He wipes her tears, rubs her back and promises her everything will be ok.

Once settled in a room, the doctor on call assures her they will do everything they can, and that thirty-six weeks is perfectly safe. They check her and she's already at five centimeters. Once she's settled, Bradley tells everybody they can filter through to visit. Baylie gets there with the bag and Grace insists she stay with them. Mav is probably the most excited and before they know it the waiting room is full.

Unfortunately Grace has the worst back labor ever but she refuses an epidural, mainly because of her fear of needles. Bradley constantly rubs her back, Baylie helps her with the breathing exercises, she walks and does everything possible to relieve the pain. Its probably a good thing her labor doesn't last long; she's only at the hospital about five hours before she feels the need to push.

Baylie is a solid rock the whole time, reminding her to breath and encourage her. Bradley was amazed at the strength of his girl, despite knowing how amazing she is. "Just a few more pushes, Grace," the doctor says.

"I can't," she cries, the pain unbearable.

Bradley grabs her face gently, wiping the tears and sweat away. "You can baby, you can. You've almost got this and then we can meet our baby. Bay and I got you. You can do this."

She gives him a shaky nod as Baylie squeezes her hand in agreement. It only takes about three more pushes before the head is out. She pants as the doctor instructs and then pushes their baby the rest of the way into the doctor's waiting hands. The baby starts crying immediately, and Grace feels immense relief. They lay the baby on her; "Congrats mommy and daddy its a girl!"

Bradley rests his head against Grace's as their tears mix as they both have hands on their baby, Baylie snapping several pictures for them. "Dad would you like to cut the cord?" They ask after a few minutes.

"Yea," he says quietly as they show him what to do. Once the cords been cut, they take the baby to get weighed, measured, and clean, Grace insisting Bradley go with her.

"I got her," Baylie promises, refusing to leave her side.

While the baby is getting cleaned up, they work on cleaning Grace up as well. Before she knows it, her baby girl is back in her arms, Bradley back at her side.

"She's five pounds two ounces and eighteen inches long," Bradley tells them.

"Our tiny girl," Grace whispers as she rubs the baby's cheek.

"I'm going to give you two a few minutes with her. Just yell when you're ready for visitors."

"Here you can show this picture," Bradley says, sending a picture of the baby girl all wrapped up after getting cleaned up. "We'll come get ya in a few," he promises.

They take a few minutes to admire their baby girl. "She's perfect," Grace whispers.

"Like her mama," Bradley smiles. She does look like Grace, but she also has some features that look like Bradley. They take about thirty minutes with her, Grace getting her to nurse a little before Bradley goes to get everybody. They bring Baylie and Mickey back first since they're the godparents, then Mav, Slider and Whiskey. After them is Jake and Alana and then everybody else that is there.

Mav cries when they tell him her name. "We named her after mom and dad," Bradley tells him as his godfather holds his grandbaby.

"They'd be so proud of you," Mav tells him softly. "She's beautiful."

Grace is exhausted by the time everybody leaves, but they FaceTime Kevin before she falls asleep. "Ready to meet your niece?" She asks as soon as Kevin answers.

The girls crowd around him making Grace smile even more. "I didn't know you had the girls," she smiles.

"Yea got them this morning. We didn't know we'd be meeting a baby today though."

"We didn't either," Bradley laughs finally coming into the screen. The girls all coo and awww over seeing the baby asleep in Bradley's arms. Grace turns the camera more so they could see the baby girl.

"Meet your niece and baby cousin, Caroline Nicole," she smiles.

"Beautiful name. Everything good?" Kevin asked.

"Yea so far. They don't see any problems with her being early."

"When can we come see her?" Sara asks her aunt.

"I think your dad has a trip planned for when you're out of school."

"But we don't wanna wait," Cara pouts.

"Sorry kiddos. Gotta finish school. It's just a couple more weeks. We fly out the day you finish," Kevin promises.

"We'll send lots of pictures between now and then and you can FaceTime anytime your dad says it's ok," Bradley promises.

"Ok," the girls sigh.

"We need to let Auntie Grace get some rest. We'll call back soon," Kevin tells them before they all say their goodbyes.

"Kev's right. Get some rest baby."

Grace lays her head on Bradley's shoulder, while he continues to hold Caroline, and promptly falls asleep. Caroline does well and they're home within a couple of days ready to start their life as a family of three now.

[whiskeyswriting]

Next Thing You Know

| Song: Next Thing You Know by Jordan Davis |

As he takes the picture of the twins trying to gently wake up Olivia, Jake reminisces on how fast his life has changed and will continue to change. He always swore he would die as the bachelor of Mount Deston, but that changed one night at a speed dating event. Alana was dragged along by Baylie, who was going to help Jake serve drinks at the event. It wasn’t how beautiful Alana was that caught his attention and stole his heart. It was how she immediately also helped when she didn’t know anyone. A few months down the line, he’s already wanting to get down on one knee. The twins came as a surprise a couple months after the wedding. The moment he saw his boys his heart grew even more. Next thing he knew, they were welcoming a baby girl. Life doesn’t go as planned but sometimes it goes better than you plan.

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Cowboy AU 🏷️ List: @askmarinaandothers @bayisdying @breadsquash @callmemana @dragon-kazansky @callsignscupcake @callsignthirsty @cycbaby @luckyladycreator2 @gracespicybradshaw @mischief-siriusly-managed @starlit-epiphany @heyriojude