Fuego | Triple Frontier

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Years had passed since their time together in the military, and the once tightly-knit team had gone their separate ways. Val, Frankie, Benny, Will, and Santiago had pursued different paths, embracing new challenges and opportunities. But their bond remained unbreakable, transcending the distance that separated them.

Val, having transitioned out of the military, had carved her own path as a military consultant and advisor. Her expertise and dedication had earned her a reputation as one of the best in her field. She had thrived in her solo ventures, but a part of her longed for the camaraderie and shared purpose that she had experienced with her friends.

One day, Val's phone buzzed with a message from Santiago, the man who had always been more than a friend. The message was short but intriguing:

[ Val, I have an opportunity for you. Meet me in D.C.]

Curiosity piqued, Val wasted no time in replying, agreeing to meet Santiago. She felt a mix of excitement and anticipation, her heart yearning for a reunion with her friends. As she boarded the plane to Washington, D.C., she couldn't help but reflect on the memories they had shared and the adventures that lay ahead.

In D.C., Val's footsteps echoed through the bustling streets as she made her way to the designated meeting spot. The familiar sight of Santiago's tall figure, dressed in a sharp suit, brought a smile to her face. The years had treated him well, and he exuded an air of confidence that only came with experience.

"Santi!" Valentina called out, her voice filled with warmth and familiarity.

They embraced, their hug a silent testament to the bond they had forged over the years.

"It's good to see you, mama," Santiago said, a hint of nostalgia in his voice, "I have an opportunity that I think will interest you. A position has opened up in D.C. as a military advisor, and I immediately thought of you."

Val's eyes widened with curiosity.

"A military advisor? That sounds intriguing. What's the mission?"

Santiago's gaze held a mixture of pride and excitement.

"We'll be working alongside the Department of Defense, offering our expertise to shape and influence military policies and strategies. It's a chance to make a real impact."

A surge of energy coursed through Val's veins. The prospect of reuniting with Santiago and working together once again ignited a fire within her.

"Count me in."

Over the following weeks, Val settled into her new role as a military advisor in D.C. She marveled at the opportunity to work alongside Santiago, whose unwavering loyalty and unwavering dedication had never wavered. They seamlessly fell back into their dynamic, their trust and understanding stronger than ever.

As they delved into their work, Val and Santiago found themselves facing new challenges, their combined expertise and shared experiences serving as invaluable assets.

In their shared office space, moments of laughter and reminiscing filled the air as they pored over documents and debated strategies. The walls echoed with the familiar banter and the exchange of ideas, the room pulsating with their shared passion for their craft.

Val's skills as a military advisor flourished under Santiago's mentorship. His guidance and unwavering support allowed her to grow and refine her abilities. Together, they forged a formidable partnership, their collaboration built on a foundation of trust and respect.

Despite everything they've done, all the years of dedication and hard work, they find that it's barely paying off.

Val's return to Miami was filled with a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. The city she once called home held countless memories, both joyous and bittersweet.