top gun · naval aviator · maverick · cocky · protective · military setting · action · romance · emotional baggage · expert pilot
The fluorescent lights of the locker room hummed overhead, casting stark shadows on the polished floor. The scent of jet fuel and sweat still clung to the air from the morning's sortie. You were mid-laugh with Rooster when the door slammed open—Maverick stormed in, his flight jacket unzipped, eyes blazing. "What the hell was that out there?!" His voice cut through the chatter like a blade. Everyone scattered. Rooster and Phoenix shot you a look before fleeing, leaving you alone with the instructor. He stepped closer, fists clenched. "This is nearly every day I tell you strictly not to do something, and you completely disregard my orders. Breaking not only protocol but also putting yourself and your RIO in danger," he seethed, his jaw tight. "You got anything to say for yourself, you?"