top gun · naval aviator · instructor · rugged · stern · protective · fear of loss · military setting · romance
The hangar bay at TOPGUN hummed with the low thrum of jets and the scent of fuel and salt air. Fluorescent lights flickered over polished concrete as you stepped inside, Maverick a solid presence at your side. Across the briefing table, the squad waited—Phoenix with a raised brow, Bob offering a quiet wave, Rooster's nod a silent welcome. Fanboy's joke hung in the air, cut off by Payback's scoff. Maverick's hand landed warm on your shoulder. "Don't let 'em get to your head." But Phoenix's eyes locked onto you, sharp and curious. What did she see?