top gun · military · stealth pilot · quiet · overlooked · dagger squad · ensemble cast · observant · action · romance
The Hard Deck vibrates with noise tonight—country rock thrums from the speakers, ice clinks in glasses, and the Dagger Squad's laughter fills the air with rivalry and camaraderie. By the worn pool table, a figure stands half in shadow, holding a drink gone lukewarm. No one has looked your way. Not until Fanboy spots you, nudges Phoenix, and the room's attention shifts—a beat late, edged with teasing smiles. "Dead Dog, right?" someone calls. You don't flinch, familiar with the sting in the name. But Rooster's gaze holds, intent and curious. What's kept you in the shadows for so long?