𝐔𝐍𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐓𝐈𝐄𝐒 | 𝐁𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐋𝐄𝐘 "𝐑𝐎𝐎𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑" 𝐁𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐖

𝐓𝐎𝐏 𝐆𝐔𝐍

✈︎𝐑 𝐄 𝐁 𝐄 𝐂 𝐂 𝐀
𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫

I stand outside of the Admiral's office, a mix of anticipation and nerves coursing through my veins. The familiar scent of aviation fuel hangs in the air as I take a deep breath, readying myself for what lies ahead.

I clear my throat and swing the door open, revealing Ice Man, a seasoned instructor at Top Gun. His icy gaze meets mine, a subtle flicker of recognition crossing his face before he welcomes me inside.

"Rebecca, it's been a while. Take a seat." He says gruffly. I nod my head and take a seat in front of his desk. I have only seen Admiral Kazansky a few times before today. This is strange to say the least. My heart starts pounding with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. I settle comfortably into the chair as I wait for him to speak.

Ice Man picks up a file from his desk and flips it open, his gaze shifting to the document before him. "I've been keeping tabs on you, Rebecca. And I must say, your accomplishments over the past year have been quite impressive."

I gulp loudly, making me widen my eyes. Ice Man leans back, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips as he starts to read. "Let's see... you've flawlessly executed multiple high-stakes missions, received commendations for your unmatched precision and tactical expertise, and your fearlessness in the face of danger has garnered admiration from your peers. Rebecca, you've earned the respect of everyone who's had the privilege of flying alongside you."

My cheeks flush with a mixture of humility and pride. I nod, my voice filled with gratitude. "It's an honor to be recognized for my contributions as a Weapons Systems Officer."

"You've proven time and again that you're a force to be reckoned with." He closes the file, his gaze meeting mine with a newfound appreciation. "Word travels fast, and it seems your name is making the rounds."

"Is that a good thing or a bad thing sir?" My voice quivers every darn time I speak to him.

"You've caught their attention, and mine, Rebecca. We want to see what you're made of." He gives me a small smile.

My eyes widen, a surge of adrenaline rushing through my veins. I lean forward, my voice filled with anticipation. "Top Gun? Are you saying I've been called to Top Gun?"

Ice Man nods, a subtle hint of approval glinting in his eyes. "That's right. The best of the best go there, and now, Top Gun is extending an invitation, beckoning you to soar even higher, to showcase your skills on the grandest stage. It won't be easy, but if you prove yourself, it could open doors you never dreamed of. "

A mixture of determination and gratitude wells up within me. "I won't let you down. I'll give it everything I have. When do I leave?"

He leans back, a hint of a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. He leans forward, lowering his voice.

"Rebecca, there's something else you should know." He says in a more serious tone.

"Is it about my—personal life?" I ask.

He nods his head. "Your secret is safe with me." He assures me. "I respect your decision to keep certain aspects hidden. Your father is remarkable in good ways and bad ones too. I understand why you're doing what you are doing. Your success will be your own, based solely on your abilities. You have my word."

"So Pete Mitchell had zero hand in this?" I give him a stern look.

"I assure you." He folds his hands. "Becca Benjamin got herself to the top."

My eyes widen, a mixture of relief and gratitude washing over me. I reach across the desk, my voice filled with heartfelt appreciation. "Thank you, Ice Man. I truly appreciate your understanding and support."

Ice Man nods, his expression softening momentarily."You've earned this opportunity, Rebecca." He says, sincerely. "It's your time to shine. The sky doesn't care about last names. Show us what you're made of."

I give him a smile. "Would it be weird if I hugged you?" I ask.

He scoffs. "Get over here kid."

I practically run over and embrace him. "I'm ready, Ice Man." I pull back and look into those old grey eyes. "Top Gun won't know what hit them."

He nods, a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "I have no doubt about that, Rebecca. You've got what it takes. Show them what you're made of."

***

As I exit the office, a renewed sense of purpose takes hold of me. The journey to Top Gun awaits, and I am ready to embrace the challenges. With my father's legacy concealed, I'm determined to carve out my own path and prove my worth on the wings of my own achievements. And for my fellow aviators, they won't know what hit them-

"Ow!" I exclaim, grabbing a hold of my nose. Pain shoots through my nose, and a sudden gush of blood stains my uniform. Stunned and caught in the chaos, I stagger backward, clutching my nose as I hit the ground. "Ow!" I grimace. "Watch where you're going!"

A head pokes around the door, the guy also seems startled by the impact but I show no mercy. His expression shifts from indifference to concern as he realizes the extent of the accident.

"Oh, I... I didn't see you there. I'm sorry, really." The man says apologetically.

I continue to glare at him, my voice strained through the pain. "Sorry? That's it? Look at my nose! It's bleeding! Thanks to you!"

He takes a step closer, his voice filled with sincerity. "I swear, it was a complete accident. I was in a rush and-" My glare morphs into something more harsh and he catches himself. "Not that that's a good excuse." He shakes his head. "Let me help you. I'm really sorry about this."

I hesitate, my anger subsiding as I see the genuine remorse in his eyes. I reluctantly (key word, reluctantly) accept his extended hand, allowing him to assist me.

I huff. "Fine, help me up."

With his support, I regain my footing, he hands me a handkerchief which I press against my nose to stem the bleeding.

"Are you okay? I really need to get going." I give him one last glare before waving him off.

"Yeah yeah. Thanks for nothing." I roll my eyes.

"Sorry, I'd love to sit here and let you rip me to shreds but Admiral Kazansky is waiting." He gives a halfhearted smile. "Good luck with that." He says, motioning to my face.

I growl. "Jerk!"