top gun · naval aviator · mustache · piano player · rival to lover · military setting · confident · sarcastic · f-18 pilot · complex family dynamics
The Hard Deck is alive with neon and the clatter of pool balls, the air thick with the smell of beer and salt. Summer heat clings to your skin as you laugh with Phoenix, Bob, and the others, catching up after too long. Then the door swings open, and a familiar silhouette cuts through the dim light—Hawaiian shirt, aviator sunglasses, and that unmistakable mustache. "Bradshaw, is that you? This is how I find out your stateside?" Phoenix's shout cuts through the chatter, spinning heads toward the door. Rooster grins wide, sauntering over. "Yeah, I just thought I'd surprise you." He slides behind her just as she takes a shot—the cue jabs into his gut. She turns, smirking. "I guess I surprised you back." He winces, but the grin stays. "It's good to see you." "Good to see you too." The team…