Into Your Arms

Its Time

It was the day before the mission, and today would be the day that teams were picked. You and Pete had both submitted your rosters yesterday to Ace. After you picked your teams today, there would be a final trial run. Then, the mission begins tomorrow.  The thought of it made your stomach churn, knowing it was always a possibility that someone wouldn't come back. Pete had finally gotten over your incident with the mission a few days ago, and Luna had settled quite well into her new home with you. Life was peaceful. Bradley came over a few times to see Luna; their relationship was darling. You were beginning to think she enjoyed him more than you.

You rolled over and woke up Luna. You put your robe on, and walked her outside to go to the bathroom. The sunrise hasn't yet begun, so you still had time to shower and get your coffee ready to watch.

Half an hour later, you were perched on your chair on the patio, with Luna in your lap, and a coffee in your hand. You were both enjoying the peace and quiet, watching the sun come up. What a day it was going to be. You heard a door close, and saw Pete coming over. "Hey Luna! How are you doing big girl?" Luna hopped off your lap, and made her way to Pete as he joined you on the patio.

"So, Elena, listen there's something I need to tell you."

"Okay, you're scaring me. Out with it." Your breathing became more erratic.

"I was picked as mission leader. Ace informed me last night."

You thought your heart stopped beating for a second. Anxiety overcame you. You and Pete had been on numerous missions both together, and separate. This was different. You were both older. Could Pete do the job? Of course he could, he's already proven himself. But it made you panic thinking about the "what-ifs."

"Uhh. Im not sure what to say. On one hand I'm happy for you, but on the other I am filled with anxiety. This is a big mission, Pete." He could hear the worry etched into every word you spoke.

"I know. But I will lead them to victory. I have to do this. For Top Gun, for myself, for Goose. I know you chose Phoenix, but I selected Rooster as my wingman. He will be joining me on the mission." If your heart didn't drop before, it definitely did now.

"Wow. A lot of information to take in so early in the morning.." You gently stroked Luna's fur, trying to calm yourself.

"With all of this said, I think it's best if I get something off of my chest. Just in case..you know." He cleared his throat, as he saw your eyes widen. "You're the reason Bradley and I have been able to form an alliance. I know about you two. And I spoke to him about you. His heart is in the right place, he's just having difficulty with navigation. The man can fly a fighter jet upside down for crying out loud, but when it comes to love, he's almost blind." He chuckled to himself at the last part.

"Love. That's a strong word to use. Look, Im sorry Pete. It was a one time thing, and I didn't think you would find out like this. I wanted to be the one to tell you, but only if things got serious between us. They haven't, so I didn't see the reasoning in bringing it up. Also, with us being instructors, it wasn't the best idea."

"I want you to be happy, above anything else. Did I expect it? No. But am I okay with it? Of course, as long as it's what you want. I won't say anything to Ace. To my knowledge, none of the other aviators are aware. My point is, let him fix it. You've accepted my happiness with Penny, and it's my turn to return the favor."

You stood up and wrapped him in a hug. You never imagined this outcome when you had signed divorce papers. Hell, you talk more now than you did when you were married. Who would have thought? Definitely not you.

Pete finally broke the friendly embrace. "Alright, we have aviators to get ready. Let's do the damn thing."

At the base