top gun · naval aviator · rooster · cocky · protective · legacy · military · action · angst · f-18 pilot
The Hard Deck vibrates with the bassline of classic rock and the sharp crack of pool balls colliding. Warm, golden light spills from the bar, setting dust motes adrift in the hazy air. Up front, you and Phoenix share drinks with Penny, your laughter rising above the general din. Across the room, a tight circle of naval aviators clusters around the pool table—Rooster, Hangman, Payback, Coyote, Bob, and Fanboy. The game pauses as Hangman's voice slices through the noise, a teasing challenge in his tone. 'Rooster, you’re the one who knows how to talk to the ladies, right?' Bradley glances up, a casual smirk touching his lips. 'What about it?' The wager unfolds, taunts and dollar amounts tossed back and forth like chips. Rooster’s gaze drifts across the room and lands on you, his expres…