BellaIreland

You didn't feel any regret leaving your pack. You honestly couldn't wait to get away from the try hard Betas and the egotistical Alphas that never treated you as their equal because of what you were.

So, when the time came for you to leave, you told your family that you didn't want a big send-off. No last run through the forest, no grand pack howl. Just a hug from your parents at the airport, and you were off.

.................

You were three weeks into your new job, and you'd made a few friends. Some shifters, some not. You were currently getting ready to meet a few of them at a local military bar they had told you about. The idea of a military bar didn't really appeal to you as much as it did to them, but who knows, maybe it could be fun. You slipped on a nice black dress and did some simple make-up before heading to your Uber.

You weren't really sure what you were expecting a bar called The Hard Deck to be like, but when your Uber pulled up to it, you certainly weren't expecting to be greeted by a bright neon sign and the sight of the beach just few steps away.

You thanked your drive and stepped out, texting your friends that you had arrived. You walked up the small sandy path and opened the door, and that's when it hit you.

The deep scent of whiskey, cinnamon, and warm tobacco. It filled your olfactory receptors and spread through you like fire. Warming you from the inside out. Your brain flooded with what felt like a thousand voices, and all of them were saying one thing:

Mate

You were frozen in place, eyes darting from side to side, frantically scanning for which of the men in the crowd that it might be. You took a few tentative steps in, hoping your instincts would lead you to him.

...............

Inside, across the bar, and gather round the pool tables, stood Top Guns finest, the Dagger Squadron. They were all talking, laughing, and blowing off steam after a long week at work.

Rooster had broken away from the group to grab another round of drinks. It was halfway to the bar when he felt it, deep inside him, knocking the air from his lungs like a punch to the gut. He stopped and tipped his chin higher, and that's when he caught it.

The most intoxicating, enthralling scent he'd ever experienced. It was sweet and fresh. Like lilies and honey and fresh squeezed citrus. He knew exactly what it meant before he heard it in his head.

Mate

You were there, somewhere in this bar. The one he'd been searching for. The one he'd almost given up one. He turned on his heels. The beers he meant to get long forgotten. Rooster pushed his way through the crowd, following, not sure where he was going or who he was going to. Blinding following some invisible string that would hopefully lead him to you.

...............

You don't remember making the conscious decision to start walking into the bar. It seemed like your feet had a mind of their own. You stepped quickly, not too quickly, to draw too much attention to yourself, your head on a swivl, scanning for your Mate. You inhaled sharply, ears perking up. The scent was getting stronger, which meant you were close. You were excited to meet him, but in the back of your mind, doubt crept it.

What if he didn't think you were pretty? What if he wasn't kind? What if he didn't like who you were—what you were? You know it's silly to think about, but it wasn't unheard of for mates to not like each other at first.

You weren't shallow like some of the other girls in your pack and concerned with how he would look. If he was handsome, that wouldn't be the worst thing in the world. But more than anything, you hoped that he was kind, honest, and caring. Someone you were with because you wanted to be, not because your instincts told you that you had to be.

You sighed, shaking your thoughts from your head. You were hopeful that it would all work out. You took another step forward. Unfortunately, you weren't quite paying attention to where you were going, and you crashed into someone.

You lost your footing and a pair of stong arms wrapped around you, steadying you on your feet. You didn't mean for it to happen, but you found your face buried in his chest. You breathed in his scent deeply.

Whiskey, cinnamon, and warm tobacco.

It was him. Your Mate.

You stepped back and looked up at him. He was tall, so much taller than you, that you had to tip your chin to meet his gaze. He was big and broad, his frame dwarfing you as you stood there.

He was handsome, oh boy, was he handsome. He had the most perfect honey colored curls and golden eyes. His smile was soft and warm as it reached the corner of his eyes. The mustache that had would have been ridiculous on anyone else, but it was perfect for him. You weren't sure how much time had passed. It was like the world around you was frozen. You could have been standing there minutes or hours, just drinking him in. Who knows?

He was the first to break the silence that passed between the two of you. "Hi." He said in a deep voice that had just the right amount of timbre to it.

"H-hi." You replied to him. You were mentally kicking yourself at your lack of confidence and how heavy your tongue felt in your mouth.

"Hi." He repeated again with a soft chuckle. "I guess I should introduce myself. I'm Bradley." He told you with a tooth rotting grin.

"Bradley." You repeated his name softly. It was a good name. A name that fit him well. "What's your name?" Bradley asked you. You told him your name. He repeated it back to himself slowly. Like he was trying to savor the taste of each syllable on his tongue. You liked the way your name sounded coming from lips. At the same time, you were jealous of it. Your name had already had the chance to find out what his tongue tasted like, how it felt to be caressed by his smile. You wanted to know, oh, you wanted to know so badly.

"You're not from around here, are you?" Bradley asked you after another moment. "No. I just moved here from the East Coast for a job. This is my first time here. I'm supposed to be meeting some friends from work, but now—" you trailed off.

"Now you'd rather be anywhere but here?" He finished your thought. "Yeah." You breathed out, suddenly aware that neither of you had let the other one go.

"Well, how about this. You go see your friends, and I'll go back to my friends from work, and in an hour or two, I'll come find you and take you out for a meal where we can get to know each other. How does that sound?" Bradley asked you.

"Good. That sounds good." You tell him sheepishly.

"Good." He smiled before hugging you and letting you get to your friends. You watched him move through the crowd and to the bar. Once he got there, he spoke to the bar tender before turning and pointing to you. You looked away quickly, hoping he didn't catch you staring, but when you looked back, his eyes were still on you. You waved. He waved back and shot you a playful wink before walking towards the pool tables with a handful of beers.

Bradley tried to be as calm as possible as he walked back to the pool table, but he just couldn't wipe the smile off his face.

"Finally. Took you long enough, Rooster." Hangman teased as Bradley approached the group. "Was about to send out a search party for you."

"Sorry, just—got a little caught up." Bradley laughed before grabbing a pool cue and sauntered over to the side of the table to take hus next turn. Bradley leaned down over the table to line up his shot. Just as he took it, another whiff of your scent floated across the bar to him and distracted him, causing him to miss completely.

Instead of getting frustrated, he just laughed and shook his head before handing the cue off to Phoenix.

She took it from him, but didn't move from his path when he went to walk away.

"Bradshaw, you're awfully perky for someone who just lost a game of pool. How come?" Phoenix questioned him.

"No reason. Just in a good mood, I guess." Bradley shrugged.

"Well, that 'good mood' and the fact that you're grinning like an idiot wouldn't have anything to do with that new scent on you, would it?" Nat asked him.

"Well, um—" Bradley scratched the back of his neck, trying to come up with an answer.

"Bradley Bradshaw, in the time it took you to go get beers, did you find your mate?" Nat grins at him like a cat who got the canary. Heat floods Bradley's cheeks as he nods.

"Well, son of a bitch, isn't that the best." Coyote whoops out before giving him a congratulatory smack on the back before the others join in.

"Is she still here?" Bob asks from his perch in the corner.

"Yeah. She's over there with some friends from work. The one in the black dress." Bradley gestures over to you without trying to make it too obvious.

Jake lets out a long, low whistle. "Damn, she is good-looking." He says as he continues to stare.

Bradley turns on his heels and growls a low "Mine," from deep on his chest at Jake before snapping the beer bottle in his hand into a million pieces.

Jake's eyes go wide, but Bradley's go wider. "I'm sorry, Jake. I don't know what just came over me." Bradley says as he wipes himself off with a napkin.

"Instincts, man." Coyote chuckles. "Once you find your mate, your brain goes crazy. After I met Nat in flight school, I remember having to fight off the urge to rip her back seater's head off every time he got in the plane with her." Javy shakes his head and takes a long drink of his beer. "Don't worry, it gets a little easier, eventually."

Bradley shakes his head, embarrassed at what he has done. He's known you for five minutes and already made a fool of himself over you.

..............

"Took you long enough to get here!" Shayla, one of your friends from work loudly exclaims as you make your way over to the table she and the rest are sitting at. "We thought maybe you go lost." Jazz laughs before pushing a margarita in your had.

"Sorry. I got a little—caught up." You say as you glance over to where Bradley and his friends are. "Caught up?" Shayla says as she raises her eyebrow before coming to right next to you.

"Okay, Shay, ever heard of personal space?" You ask her.

"I'm not buying it. You never get 'caught up' with anything, and you're never late. It should be criminal how you are always early to everything." Shayla says as she examines your face.

"Shay, chill and give her some room to breathe," Nia, the fourth and final member of your friend group, finally pipes up. Shayla shushes her with a wave of her hand before leaning closer to you.

Finally, it seems the light bulb goes off for her. "Well, I'll be damned." Shayla chuckles before giving you a pat on the shoulder. Nia and Jazz look at her, confused, waiting for her to say something. Shayla laughs again. "Sorry Nia, sorry Jazz, I forget sometimes that you two aren't like us," she gestures between the two of you, "but it smells like someone has found her mate." Shayla grins as she takes a sip of her drink.

"Mate?" Nia asks. "It's like life partner. Someone that you're destined to be with. It's a wolf thing. It's hard to explain." You tell them. "And you can tell by scent?" Jazz asks. "Yeah, it's instincts. You never know when it's going to happen, but when it does, your brain kinda goes crazy." You tell her.

"Aww, that's so cool. Ugh, you two have it so much easier than the rest of us who are out here fighting for our lives on dating apps." Jazz rolls her eyes.

"So, who is it?" Shayla prys as she looks around the bar. "Him." You say as you point to Bradley and his friends.

"The one in the Hawaiian shirt and the mustache." You say. "Oh, he is fine." Nia says. Without thinking, you growl at her. A low warning. It shocks you. Nia looks back at you with wide eyes. "I'm sorry, Nia. Instincts. Once you meet your mate, your brain hardwires itself to protect your mate from any perceived threats." You try to explain to her.

"Note to self," Nia begins. "Don't tell anyone you think their man is fine." Nia laughs before patting your hand and reassuring you that you're okay.

"So why aren't you over there with him?" Jazz asks you after a moment. "We are both here with friends. We both decided we needed a minute to breathe and wrap our heads around the whole thing. He is going to take me to dinner in an hour so we can get to know each other." You tell them.

"Well, I'm sure you two will click, just like Ian and I did." Shayla says. You knew she was mated since you met her. You saw the barely there scar of a mating mark on the left side of her neck the first time the two of you met.

You raised your hand to rub over your own neck wondering if Bradley would be one of those that instantly wanted to bond, or would he be okay with the fact that you wanted to wait.

"Don't worry." Shayla says as she places her hand on your shoulder. "He is going to love you." She tells you with a reassuring smile.

................

An hour later, Bradley comes and politely steals you away from your friends. Your hand feels so small in his as he holds it to escort you out of the bar and to the parking lot.

"Did you drive here?" He asks you. "No, I took an Uber." You tell him. "Well, I drove. We can take my car to get something to eat, and I can drop you off at your place later, or I can call an Uber if you aren't comfortable riding with me?" Bradley looks down at his feet.

"I'd like to ride with you. Gives us more time to talk. I trust you." You tell him. And you mean it. "Okay." Bradley smiles at you as he leads you across the parking lot to a beautiful vintage blue Bronco. He opens the door and offers you his hand to help you up before he reaches across the seat and buckles you in. He shoots you a wink before shutting the door and running across to the drivers side. You giggle at him.

"So, do you like pancakes? Because I know this diner that has the best pancakes in all of San Diego, that's not too far from here. Or if you don't like pancakes, I know a great taco place, or burgers, or—" Bradley rambles nervously.

"I love pancakes." You blurt out, interrupting his nervous spiral. "Great. Pancakes it is." He smiles at you before driving away from the Hard Deck.

The drive was more— quiet than you thought it would be. Not because you didn't want to talk to Bradley, because god, you really did. But you were afraid to get too close to him before you told him what you were. What if he rejected you because of it? It wasn't unheard of, and you knew it would be easier if you weren't already attached to him. But you could already feel the connection building with him. Between the stolen glances and how he was holding your hand and giving it a reassuring squeeze every so often, you already felt yourself yearning for him.

You were broken from your thoughts when Bradley parked in front of a retro looking diner. He hopped out and quickly helped you out of his car. He linked your hands together before walking in.

The two of you were tucked away in a corner booth. Before you could speak, a waitress quickly came and took your order. Chocolate chip pancakes, scrambled eggs with cheese and hot sauce, bacon, and toast. Bradley ordered the same thing, claiming that yours sounded good.

"So," Bradley began as you took a sip of the coffee in front of you. He began to open his mouth to say something, but you stopped him before he could.

"I'm a half-ling!" You blurted before looking down at your hands and fiddling with your napkin.

Bradley was silent for a minute before responding, "Okay."

You glanced up at him, wondering how he could be so nonchalant about it. "Okay?" You question him. He looked at you confused. "Were you expecting me to say something else, Honey?" He asked. The pet name dropping smoothly from his lips like the golden liquid itself.

"Um, maybe. I don't know. I just—I just wanted you to know before we went any further, in case you weren't okay with it. I just wanted to give you the chance to—" you look back down at your hands again. The poor paper napkin shredded to bits now.

"To what? Reject you?" Bradley asks. You nod your head, too scared to meet his eyes. Bradley reaches across the table and takes your hand in his. "Honey," god, why did it sound so good when he called you that? "Half-ling or full wolf. I don't care. And I'm certainly not going to reject you over it. You're my mate. And I know it sounds so cliché but I am not going anywhere. I want to be with you. Do you want to be with me?" Bradley asks you with a sincere smile.

"Yeah. I think I do." You smile back at him. Bradley runs his thumb over your knuckles as the two of you sit there, not speaking, but still, so much passing between the two of you.

Your peace is broken by the arrival of your food. You quickly tucked into it, not realizing how hungry you were.

"So, you're a half-ling. That's cool. Which parent is a wolf?" Bradley asks you after a few minutes.

"My mom." You say while spearing an egg. "One of those rare cases where her mate was a human. But we did some genealogy on my dad's family, and it turns out his like great-great-great-great- grandparents were wolves, so he just had the gene passed down. Not enough where he could ever transform or anything, but it's there." You explain.

"Can you transform?" Bradley asks with a mouthful of bacon. "Yes, I can. I'm just smaller than someone who is full wolf. And not as strong. Some of the boys from my pack would try to take advantage of me and some of the other half-ling girls. They were hot head alphas who thought they could have whatever and whoever they wanted. There was this one in my pack, Marco, he cornerned me in the woods near my house once. Had me up against a tree. I know I wasn't the first girl he'd done it to because he told me that none of the others fought back like me. I sunk my claws into his eyebrow and nearly ripped off his face. He never tried anything like that again, and he was kicked out of the pack." You say taking a bite of your pancakes then pausing.

"I don't know why I just told you all of that." You shake your head.

"It's okay. I want to know everything about you." Bradley assures you.

"Well, just so you know, I've never done anything like that. My scars are from when I was a young, hot-headed alpha mad at the world after I lost my mom. I got into my fair share of fights back then.

"Of course you're an alpha, Bradley. How could you be anything else?" You chuckled. "Technically, I'm an alpha, too. So was my mom. But no one takes a half-ling as an alpha seriously." You scoff.

"I do." Bradley says without missing a beat.

The two of you sit in that diner for another two hours, talking, getting to know each other, and eating way too many pancakes.

When you both finally leave, he offers to take you back to your friends at the Hard Deck. But you turn him down, instead asking him to take you home.

Bradley is a perfect gentleman and walks you to your door. The two of you stand in the glow of the light, illuminating your small porch.

"So." He says. "So." You parrot back to him. "I'm having a really good time, and I'm really not tired. Would you like to come in?" You ask him. He raises an eyebrow at you.

"Not for sex." You clarify, quickly. Bradley busts out a laugh. "I mean, it's not that I don't ever want to have sex with you. Just not right now. I thought maybe we could watch a movie or something?" You try to hide the flush of embarrassment in your cheeks.

"That sounds great." Bradley smiles at you. You quickly unlock your door, and he follows you into the entryway. Both of you toe off your shoes, and you toss your keys into the bowl in the hall.

"Do you want something to drink?" You ask him. "Water is fine." He says as he makes his way into your living room. It's small but homey and decorated in a style that is uniquely you.

He sits down on your couch and looks at some of the pictures that you have up. He assumes that they are of your family and friends.

"Here you go, Bubs." You say to him as you hand him a glass of water. "Bubs?" He asks you, taking the glass.

"I just thought it fit. If you don't like it, I—" you trail off.

"No, I like it. Bubs and Honey. Sounds like quite the pair." Bradley says as you sit down on the couch. It's small, so the two of you are pressed close together. You can feel the warmth radiating off of Bradley. He causally lifts an arm up and drapes it over your shoulder. You lean in even closer to him until your cheek is pressed against his torso. You can hear his heart beating in his chest. You wonder if yours sounds just the same. Bradley wraps his arm around you. Pulling you closer.

By the time the movie that you hadn't been paying attention to is almost over, Bradley is sprawled out across your couch, feet hanging off on side because of how small it is, and how broad he is. You draped over him with a blanket over the two of you. Bradley gentle strokes your hair, and you hum contently.

"You have to go home, don't you?" You say as you prop your chin up on his chest. He sighs and sits both of you up.

"Unfortunately, I think I do." Bradley says. He cups your face and strokes your cheek. "Before I go, I was hoping—if you want—could I kiss you? I've been thinking it about it all night if I'm being honest." Bradley nervously rubs the back of his neck.

"Please." You say so fast that it surprises both of you. He flashes you another smile and tilts your chin up towards his face. His lips just millimeters from yours.

"C'mon, Bubs. Are you going to kiss me or just look at me?" You tease him. "Maybe I want to do both, Honey." He says before connecting his lips with yours.

Electric is the only way you can describe it. His lips are soft and plush and sweet against yours. His tongue traces along the seem of your mouth, and you gladly grant him access, deepening the kiss. Your hands tangle in his hair as Bradley pulls you into his lap. You plant your knees on either side of his waist as the two of you get lost in each other. His hands roam along your body, keeping you close to him.

He pulls away from your mouth and trails his along your chin and neck. His mustache tickles your skin. You feel his lips grazed over your pulse point on the left side of your neck, and you pull away quickly.

Bradley looks at you with lust filled eyes, silently asking you if he's done something wrong.

"I—I know we are mates, but I want to wait on the whole marking thing. Just for a little while, if that's okay with you." You say, worried he'll be mad.

"I'll wait as long as you want, Honey. We have nothing but time." You smile at him and surge forward, kissing him with fervor. You can't get enough of him. You never want to stop kissing him.

"Stay just a little bit longer, please, Bubs?" It comes out more of a beg than a demand. Bradley looks up at you. Your eyes are so sweet, and your lips are swollen and glossy from where you have been kissing him. How can he tell you, no?

"Yeah, Honey. A little longer, anything you want." He agrees, happily, eagerly. You smile brightly at him, and it warms him from the inside out.

Bradley has only known you for a few hours, but he knows that he would do anything in his power to keep that smile on your face.

.............

When one is climbing a mountain, there’s generally one clear goal in mind.

To reach the summit.

There are points where the terrain may be steeper than others, or one may get a brief moment of reprieve from a particularly flat segment.

But there are still only two options at any given point. One can either keep climbing or turn around. 

Keep working towards the ultimate goal, or give up.

Bradley Bradshaw refused to give up.

That left him with only one option.

Climb.

He could never stop climbing. 

Even once he reached what he’d believed to be the peak, he’d look out and notice an even higher point. The finish line never stopped moving, and therefore neither could Bradley. 

Throughout his childhood, he’d always been fixated on his father’s story. 

The late Nick Bradshaw, whom nobody had a bad thing to say about.

The man who made Carole Bradshaw feel more loved and cared for than anyone ever had.

The man who managed to balance a successful career in the Navy and fatherhood.

The man who was adored by anyone lucky enough to have known him.

The man Bradley could never fill the shoes of, but that wouldn’t stop him from trying.

Every ounce of effort his adolescent body could muster was dedicated to becoming the man the Navy was looking for. He pushed to build muscle and stay in top physical health. He poured himself into his studies so he could keep up academically.

Ultimately, he’d decided to pursue a career as a fighter pilot rather than a backseater. He couldn’t fathom the thought of not being in complete control. The idea of being helpless, like his father was in his last moments, was ultimately his biggest fear. 

He wanted to go out not in fear, but rather in peace, knowing that he’d done everything possible, but fate had other plans. 

As each milestone approached, Bradley would almost grow giddy.

When he finally reached what he thought was the object of his desires, the Navy, he found himself still wanting more. 

When he graduated Top Gun, he wanted more.

When he surpassed the rank his father had died at, he wanted more.

He wanted to represent what Nick Bradshaw could have been, had he been granted that opportunity.

He didn’t want to be a reminder of his father’s death, but rather a manifestation of something that kept the spirit of him alive. 

Inevitably, he’d end up disappointed after these moments passed.

When everything he’d wanted, everything he’d worked for, was within reach, he’d realize it didn’t give him the closure he’d been expecting. 

It didn’t complete him.

He needed to do more.

Following the success of the Uranium Mission, everyone who’d flown was given a week of leave.

While Bradley and Pete had definitely taken a big step in the repair of their relationship, it still hadn’t quite reached the point it once was. So, knowing him well enough to know he neither had anyone to spend that week with nor would he ask, Phoenix invited him back home with her to Albuquerque. 

He would never admit, but it was needed. To be in a neutral space, not charged with the memories that often plagued him. To get to just unwind with one of his closest friends and her family. 

The thing about military life was that it often times became all-consuming. Its darkness had a way of affecting every aspect of one’s life. 

His friends were in the Navy.

His chosen family was the Navy.

His whole life was the Navy.

To see Natasha, surrounded by loved ones who were so detached from it all, was a breath of fresh air.

A reminder that maybe there was more to life than the medals he earned. 

They truly had welcomed him with open arms. Despite the fact that his history with them obviously didn’t run as deep as Natasha’s did, the love was palpable as they treated him like one of their own.

He was out to dinner with Natasha and her sisters. They’d opted to take him to a locally loved Mexican restaurant from which they swore the chicken flautas would change his life. After more flautas and rice than he cared to admit and 3 beers, though conversation was flowing, Bradley excused himself to use the restroom.

As he washed his hands, a chuckle crept out of his mouth. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt this serene. 

He shook his hands dry after a minute of fighting the paper towel dispenser, and as he turned the corner into the primary seating area where he was awaited, he made contact with someone and was suddenly covered in a freezing cold, greenish-yellow, icy liquid.

As he looked up, his eyes met yours.

A laugh escaped him at your mortified apologies as you set the tray you were carrying down in favour of grabbing a handful of napkins to help him clean the frozen margarita that had doused his torso. 

He heard a chorus of loud, drunk, obnoxious cheers coming from the Trace women once they’d realized Bradley had been partially at fault for the commotion between the bar and the restroom.

He was about to laugh yet again, until he realized how truly embarrassed you looked. 

“Hey, it’s okay.” He said, resting his hands on your shoulders. “I promise it’s fine.” He offered a smile as you finally looked up at him.

“I’m so sorry!” You replied, putting the pile of sopping wet napkins on the abandoned tray and offering hand sanitizer from the bottle on the bar top to get rid of the tacky residue that coated both your hands. “I should’ve been paying more attention! I was all flustered because these margaritas got sent back for tasting too lime-y,” you explained, putting air quotes around the flavour descriptor. “And I—I don’t even know what I’m supposed to do about that.” You finished, out of breath. “Although, that’s not your problem. Like at all. So, just, please know I’m so sorry. I’ll grab you another round. On me.”

“That’s really not necessary.” He told you, his hands still not having left your shoulders.

“I’ll take a free beer!” Natasha’s youngest sister, Naomi, called from the table.

“I guess I’ll take one beer.” He corrected, "But that’s it.” He pointed a finger at you before offering a final smile and heading back to the table.  

The night continued; Bradley had been in far less comfortable positions than this, so when the girls offered to head out so he could change, he insisted they keep the good evening rolling.

Natasha’s oldest sister had just finished a story about how they’d all ended up with matching scars from eating it on the old swingset in their childhood home when a throat-clearing sound alerted the four to a new arrival.

It was you. Looking as bashful as before.

“Hey, I’m heading out, but I just wanted to apologize one more time for spilling that margarita on you. You’re a real trooper. If I were you, I couldn’t stand sitting here in it like that.” You gestured to the shirt, which was sticking to his abs from the drying tequila and lime juice. 

“Trust me, you don’t have to feel bad.” He said, laughing. 

Now, Natasha Trace may have been drunk. But even in her slightly inebriated state, she still saw all the telltale signs that Bradley Bradshaw was smitten.

The shy smirk that grew on his face was the first tell. It wasn’t the cocky one he wore when he spoke to potential hook-ups in the Hard Deck. It was more gentle. More vulnerable.

The red flush that crept up his neck as his eyes searched yours as if they contained every answer one could ever want.

The way he subtly mirrored your own actions, scratching his nose when you did the same, folding his hands together as you wrung yours nervously. 

The corner of her lip twitched up into a smirk, and her brows furrowed as she kicked her oblivious sisters under the table and nodded subtly towards the interaction.

Silence enveloped the three sisters as they observed the interaction. As if it were rehearsed, all three of their jaws dropped in sync when Bradley let you walk away.

“What the hell, Bradshaw?” Natasha asked, in a stage whisper. “Why didn’t you give her your number?”

“What?” He asked with an incredulous laugh as his gaze rose to the ceiling.

“Ugh, men can’t do anything.” Natasha said, dramatically pushing her chair back and quickly exiting the building, the same way you had. 

Bradley looked between her two sisters with his mouth agape and eyebrows raised. It didn’t take long for her to make her way back. In her hand was a napkin, with ten digits scrawled across it.

“Text her.” She said, placing the napkin in front of Bradley. “She thought it was sweet that you were 'shy.'" She said, rolling her eyes at the man she begrudgingly called her best friend. 

He could only smile as he folded the napkin with careful precision before sliding it into his wallet.

Once her sisters had gotten into their respective Ubers home, Natasha and Bradley started the short walk to her parents’ house, where they were staying. 

“Alright, quit pussyfooting around, Bradshaw.” 

“Pussyfooting?” He asked, a questioning smile spread across his face. 

“Text her. Now.” 

Bradley sighed, pulling out his phone and wallet before punching your phone number into the ‘To:’ section of IMessage. 

Hey, it's Bradley from the margarita incident. Full disclosure, I’m only visiting for the week. But I’d love to take you out to dinner if you’re free tomorrow?

Natasha squealed uncharacteristically as she saw “Read 22:13” appear below the message while she read over Bradley’s shoulder. 

The three dots indicating you were typing appeared and vanished once, twice, and three times before a message came through.

Hi Bradley! I’d love to!

The next day, he cursed himself for not bringing nicer clothes to the Trace abode. How was he to know he’d meet the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen on this visit?

He put on the nicest shirt he had and a pair of chinos borrowed from Mr. Trace himself. 

As he arrived at the restaurant and saw you, waiting by the host stand for him, all the air left his lungs.

Last night, you were beautiful, and you were working.

He should’ve known seeing you in a new setting would floor him.

He couldn’t believe you’d gotten prettier. 

He swore he’d died when your eyes met his and the most beautiful smile graced your features. 

Once you’d sat together, conversation flowed as you both looked over your menus.

Not once did work get mentioned. Not from either of you.

For the first time in a long time, Bradley felt like more than an accomplished naval aviator. He felt like a man who had something to offer outside of his profession. 

He briefly forgot the shadow he’d spent his life trying to outrun. 

The pressure imposed on him by himself and the universe that took his father too soon was gone from the forefront of his mind.

He could just talk to you as Bradley Bradshaw.

He could be a man who enjoyed golf, football, and the beach.

He could be a dork who loved to read about various conspiracies despite not really believing any of them.

He could be a dude who, despite never having tried it, knew a weird amount about archery.

He could be the guy whose idea of fun was painting old-school car models. 

He could just be. 

The questions you asked about his interests and the way your eyes lit up as you encouraged him to continue his explanations made him feel a type of peace he couldn’t remember ever having felt before. 

You’d been dating Bradley for seven amazing months. You’d met just after Thanksgiving at The Hard Deck when you were out with friends. The two of you had spent the entire night locked in conversation and lost in one another, oblivious to the rest of the bar… friends included. He’d asked you out at the end of the night and you’d been together ever since (to the surprise of no one). 

Bradley’s birthday was coming up on Saturday and you were determined to make it extra special for him. You’d been talking with Nix, trying to come up with a plan on what to do for him. 

“I don’t know that he’s going to want a party, Nix.” You said as the two of you brainstormed over coffee, “He’s been in a weird mood lately… just kind of quieter.”

“Oh shit.” Nix said, sighing, “Have the two of you talked much about his parents since you started dating? Has he opened up to you?” Her voice was gentle. You could tell she was treading lightly, balancing loyalty to Bradley but also trying to be a good friend to you and to be helpful. 

“We’ve talked.” You said, “He’s talked about how his dad died… and growing up with just his mom, how the loss impacted his childhood and his mom, how close he was to his mom… how much her death hit him. He’s talked about things with Mav… am I missing something, Nix?”

“His dad died a month after his 2nd birthday …” Nix said softly. “And… his mom died a week after he turned 17.”

“So he’s probably quieter and pulling in… because the anniversaries of his parents' deaths are on the heels of his birthday…” You replied, “Shit.” 

“Yeah.” Nix sighed, “It’s been awhile since we’ve been together on his birthday. Last year he randomly took off out East for a week, came back just in time for the 4th of July cookout at Penny and Mav’s. He was still a little quiet the rest of the month but we didn’t push.”

“What if… we just do drinks at The Hard Deck on Friday… really informal, low key.” You said, “Then Saturday I’ll plan on just pampering him. Breakfast in bed… a day of just watching movies or going for a drive up the coast… whatever he wants. I can make him dinner that night and a cake…”

“I think that’s a great idea.” Nix said, a soft smile playing on her face, “It might help pull him out of his head too. Any ideas on what you’re going to get him as a gift?”

“That part was actually kinda easy.” You said, smiling. “He’s mentioned so many times over the last few months about wanting a dog. The man really wants a dog… every time we’re on the beach, or out walking, or anywhere and he sees a dog, he’s an instant puddle of mush and makes a beeline for the dog.”

“Well, now that he’s moved you in with him, getting a dog would be the next logical step.” She teased, “I know he’s wanted one forever… when he was single and living alone it wasn’t an option since there would have been nobody to care for the dog while he was deployed.”

“Exactly!” You said, “I’m not going anywhere… I love that man more than anything, and have since day one. So… he’s getting a dog!”

“Are you going to just bring a dog home?” She asked, looking amused. 

“No.” You said, laughing, “I’m going to blindfold him and take him to the Humane Society then when we get there, take off the blindfold and tell him we’re adopting a furbaby.”

“You’re really good for him.” Nix said, smiling softly, “He’s lucky to have you. Leave Friday to me and the boys…. And if you need anything for Saturday, let me know.”

“Thanks, Nix.” You smiled back, “That means the world. I am the lucky one. He’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

“I bet if you talk to Mav he’d arrange for Bradley to have Monday off.” Nix suggested, “Might be better if you just make a long weekend of it.”

“I’ll call him and see what he says.” You replied, “Bradley hasn’t brought it up so I don’t want to overstep.” 

“I don’t think he’ll see it like that.” She said, “Honestly, I think he’ll see it as just the opposite… trust me.”

The next day when Bradley got home from base he looked like the weight of the world was on his shoulders. You didn’t push, just wrapped your arms around him and held him tight when he melted into you. 

“How about you get changed and I’ll order us some pizza and we can snuggle on the couch tonight.” You suggested, “Sound good?”

“That sounds perfect, Angel.” He whispered, kissing the top of your head, “I’ll be right back down.”

“Take as much time as you need, Baby.” You said softly, your eyes meeting his, “I’ll be right here when you come down.”

He leaned down and pressed a slow, tender kiss to your lips, before pulling back just slightly. 

“I love you.” He said, his voice raspy

“Love you more.” You whispered back. 

He reluctantly pulled away and went upstairs to go change out of his uniform. You grabbed your phone and placed an order for a pepperoni pizza from the place down the road that he loved, knowing it would get here relatively quickly, (in terms of delivery at least).  You made sure to order extra breadsticks with dipping sauce and some Dr. Pepper soda for him. You weren’t sure if he’d want soda or beer but you didn’t have any of his favorite soda in the fridge so you were covering your bases. You made a note to hit the grocery store tomorrow. 

The shower turned on and you smiled, happy he was taking time to relax a little. You lit some of the soothing scented candles around the living room, then sat on the couch and scrolled through the available dogs at the humane society while you waited. There was one there that caught your eye that you knew Bradley would absolutely fall in love with. You’d already bookmarked him. He was a two year old Golden Retriever with big soulful brown eyes. He was described as a little shy at first but a lovebug who loved to play just as much as he loved snuggles. The name of the dog is what drew you in at first. It seemed like fate. You just weren’t sure how Bradley would feel about it. His name was “Goose”. You took a screencap of the photo and description and sent it to Mav Penny to show Mav and get their opinion. You would have sent it to Mav but he had yet to join the modern era with technology and wasn’t exactly savvy with his phone. 

The pizza arrived right as Bradley was coming down the stairs. You signed a credit card slip and took the food, along with the cold Dr. Pepper, thanking the delivery driver. 

“Got all of your favorites, Handsome.” You smiled over at him, your heart skipping at the sight of him in a pair of sweats and an old worn Grateful Dead T-shirt. His hair was still damp and his curls were more defined. 

“I don’t know what I did to deserve you.” he smiled, coming over. 

“Sit down on the couch, Baby.” You said, kissing him softly. “Do you want beer or Dr. Pepper with your pizza?”

“Dr. Pepper, Angel.” He replied, stealing another kiss before sitting down on the couch. 

You smiled before grabbing the box of pizza, breadsticks, and the soda and bringing it to the coffee table in front of him. 

“It smells amazing,” he said, sitting forward to grab a slice. “Thank you.”

You sat next to him, reaching for a slice of pizza of your own, “You don’t have to thank me, Bradley.” You replied, smiling gently at him, “I love you, getting pizza and Dr. Pepper for you after a rough day is just the bare minimum.” 

“It’s a lot more than that, Angel.” He said, looking over at you, his eyes always conveying the depth of his love for you. “You have no idea everything you do for me… everything you’ve given me since you walked into my life.”

“I think it’s mutual, B.” You smiled softly, your heart swelling with the amount of love you had for this man. “You’ve given me just as much… if not more. Besides, you make it really easy to love you.” 

The two of you ate in a comfortable silence. Bradley lost in thought, probably working through his day. You gave him the space to do so, while remaining physically present if he needed you. 

“Nix wants everyone to get together on Friday night for my birthday.” He said quietly a little while later. You looked over at him to try to gauge his feelings on the matter.

“Ok.” You smiled softly, “We can do that. Celebrate my amazing boyfriend.”

“It’s not that big of a deal.” He shrugged, giving you a small smile, “Just another day. She said I’m not allowed to run off this year… that I have to at least come for a drink with everyone.”

“Ok, first of all.” You said, turning so your whole body was facing him now, “The day you were born is very MUCH a big deal, and should be celebrated accordingly. You matter to so many people, Baby. You matter to ME most of all. Secondly… I think your friends just want to show their love and support. If you’re up for it… we can go  and if you want to leave after a couple of drinks I will absolutely get you out of there.”

“I love you, Angel.” He replied, his voice raspy. You pulled him into your arms, holding him tight. 

“I love you too, Handsome.” You said softly, kissing his forehead. “I know you’ve been quieter this past week… things weighing you down. How about you put in for a leave day on Monday and we have a long weekend at home… just us. We’ll shut out the world and reset.”

“That sounds like the perfect way to spend my birthday, Angel.” He smiled gently, his eyes soft. “I’ll put in for the day tomorrow morning when I get to base. Just when I think there’s no possible way I could love you any more… that my heart will absolutely explode… you go and prove me wrong.”

You laugh, leaning forward to kiss him. “You have done so much for me…made my whole world brighter since I met you and we started dating. It’s my turn to take care of you.”

Without warning he scooped you up and carried you towards the stairs, you squealed, holding on tightly, laughing giddily as he started to pepper your face and neck with kisses. He kicked the door to your shared bedroom closed, tossing you onto the bed and following you down. The pizza and breadsticks would need to get put up much…much later. 

******

By Friday, you could tell Bradley was ready to close in for the weekend with just the two of you, and was regretting agreeing to drinks at The Hard Deck. He got home after work, still in his flight suit and dropped his bag by the door. After tossing his keys into the bowl on the side table and taking his boots off he collapsed down onto the couch, his head falling back onto the back to cushion. 

“That was quite the sigh, Handsome.” You said, coming over to stand behind the couch. Leaning over, you kiss his forehead, brushing some of his hair back. “Rough day, Baby?”

“Long.” He whispered, “Nothing seemed to want to go right… and I’m just… tapped out.”

“Want me to work some of the knots from your shoulders?” You asked softly.

“Not right now.” He whispered, “Take a shower and cuddle with me?”

“Come on, Handsome.” You said, “We’ve got time… shower and snuggles coming up.”

“Do we have to go tonight?” He asked, sighing as he got up and followed you up the stairs.

“At least for one drink, Baby.” You said, leading him into the bedroom. “Then… if you still wanna come home, we will.”

“I will.” He said, stubbornly. “Just want to sit on the couch with my girl and watch cheesy movies while we snuggle.” 

“We can do that all weekend, Handsome.” You smiled lovingly up at him, “Now, strip down and get in the shower.”

“Aren’t you coming in with me?” He pouted, giving you puppy eyes. 

“Yes, Baby,” You laughed, shaking your head, “I’m right behind you.”

After showering you got out and dried off, before you could get dressed, however, Bradley tugged you towards the bed, bundling you both under the covers and tucking you close. You smiled, wrapping your arms around him and burying your face against his chest, breathing in his scent. 

“This is much better.” He said, his voice sounding more relaxed. His body was less tense as well. “Just needed to hold you.”

“Happy to help.” You replied quietly, tenderly kissing his chest. “We can’t fall asleep though… Nix will kill us.”

“You’re not wrong.” He chuckled. It was good to hear it after the last week. “Fine. We go for a drink… two tops. Then back home to start my birthday weekend of nonstop cuddles with my favorite girl.”

***

Two drinks ended up turning into a few more than that. Bradley was currently engulfed in his third game (battle) of pool against Nix. You smiled, enjoying seeing him finally relaxed and more like himself again. You hopped off the chair you’d been on and made your way to the bar to grab him another beer and another soda for yourself. 

“Hey, Sweetheart.” Penny smiled, “Another round?” 

“Yup.” You said, smiling back, “Probably gonna switch him to water after this so he’s not miserable tomorrow, but it’s just good to see him having fun.”

“Pete said he’s been a little off this week.” She replied, giving you a sympathetic look, “He’ll perk back up. It’s just tough on him. I do think that Golden Retriever is perfect for him… is he still available?”

“He is.” You said, “I started the application, just in case, but… I want to give Bradley the ultimate end choice.”

“That makes sense.” She smiled softly, sliding the drinks across to you, “But even if you just adopt him and change his name… he would still be perfect.”

“I’ll make sure to mention that.” You said. “Thanks, Penny.”

“Anytime.” She winked, “Let us know if you need anything this weekend, or anytime.”

“Will do.” You said, picking up the drinks and then making your way back over to the group. 

You walked to the pool table where the game had just wrapped up…again. Bradley was smiling proudly so he must have won this time.

“Did you finally beat her?” You asked, handing your boyfriend his beer. 

“Yup.” He said proudly, his cheeks flushed from the alcohol and the temperature of the bar. 

“Congratulations, Baby.” You laughed, lifting on your tiptoes to kiss him gently. “I'm proud of you.”

He pulled you into his arms, kissing the top of your head. You both move to sit with the squad. Bradley immediately pulled you close so you were tucked into him, his arm wrapped around you. 

“Alright, here’s to our boy, Rooster and another lap around the sun.” Jake said, raising his beer. “Happy Birthday, Man.”

“Happy Birthday!” The rest of the squad chimed in, raising their drinks. 

You kissed his cheek, smiling “Happy birthday, Handsome.”

“Thank you,” He said, a flush rising to his cheeks, “You’re all the best… thanks for making me come out tonight. I needed this.”

“It’s what we’re here for, Bradshaw.” Nix said, smiling. “When you let us rather than pissing off to the unknown.”

“Fair.” He chuckled, “I think those days are done.” He looked over at you, leaning in to kiss your forehead.

“Yes they are.” You agreed, smiling over at him. 

A slower song comes on the jukebox, Bradley smiles, slides out of the booth and grabs your hand.

“Come on, Angel.” He said, “Dance with me.”

“Ok.” You laughed softly, “Guess The Hard Deck now has a dance floor.” 

“Penny just humors us.” He smirked, pulling you into his arms. You wrapped your arms around his neck, smiling up at him.

“I love you, Bradley.” You said, laying your head on his chest.

“Love you too, Angel.” He replied, kissing the top of your head. 

*****

The next morning you let Bradley sleep in while you went down and made him homemade waffles. You also got a chocolate cake into the oven, using a recipe from a book Mav had found and given to you the other day. He said it had been Carole’s and that there would be notes. He was right. She’d made notes on all of Bradley’s favorites and then any modifications she made. You were making him lasagna for dinner. She had labeled it as ‘Bradley’s birthday favorite’. 

With the cake in the oven, you plated a waffle (putting a candle on it) and some bacon and grabbed a glass of orange juice and took it upstairs to Bradley. 

You set the glass of orange juice on the bedside stand next to him and then sat down on the edge of the bed and slid your hand not holding the plate into your pocket where you’d stashed the lighter you kept for candles and lit the candle on the waffle. 

“Morning sleepy head.” You said softly, so as not to startle him awake. “Rise and shine, my handsome birthday boy.”

He stirred, his eyes blinking open groggily, a soft smile appearing on his face. 

“Happy Birthday to you… happy birthday to you… happy biiirrrthday dear Bradley… happy birthday to you.” You sang carefully leaning forward to kiss him, making sure not to set your hair on fire. “Make a wish, Handsome.”

“I got everything I want already.” He said, his voice raspy from sleep. He smiled, sitting up, his eyes met yours in a soft love filled gaze before he gently blew out the candle. 

“Did you make a wish?” You asked, handing him the plate so he could eat. 

“Sure did.” He answered. “This is incredible, Angel. Thank you.”

“Just the start, Baby.” You smiled. “You’re getting an entire day of being spoiled.”

“Does this spoiling involve birthday sex?” He asked, taking a bite of bacon and smirking at you.

“Eat your breakfast and we’ll negotiate.” You laughed. “I have your cake in the oven though so no funny business until it’s safely out of the oven, Mister.”

“You’re baking me a cake?” He asked, his voice barely above a whisper, his brown eyes meeting yours, surprise and something more registering in his expression. 

“Of course I am,” You replied smiling gently, “It’s your birthday… you need a birthday cake.”

“I haven’t had one of those in a really long time.” He admitted.

“Well I’m happy to bake you one then, Baby.” You smiled, leaning in to kiss him. “Finish eating while I go check the cake. I’ll be right back.”

****

Later that morning, while Bradley was in the shower… after a couple of rounds of birthday sex… you went down to the kitchen to ice his chocolate layer cake before moving to get the present you had for him and setting it on the coffee table. You’d found a Grateful Dead Hawaiian shirt online and ordered it for him. To be safe, you’d had it sent to Nix’s apartment. She’d put it in your car last night at The Hard Deck without Bradley knowing. You’d also decided to go ahead and fill out the application for Goose. You printed it and put it in a box with a collar, leash, and a rooster dog toy then wrapped it up. 

“Angel… that cake smells… so good.” Bradley said coming down the stairs. “It reminds me of my birthdays when my mom would bake me cakes.”

“Funny you should say that.” You smiled, moving over to him and wrapping your arms around his waist, “Mav found a recipe book… and brought it over. He said it was your mom’s. She was very thorough and labeled everything…with notes.”

“Mav brought my mom’s cookbook?” he asked, a soft smile forming on his lips, “So… that’s my mom’s chocolate cake I’m smelling?”

“Yes, Baby.” You replied, taking his hand and pulling him to the kitchen, “And… for dinner I planned to make the one Lasagna labeled, ‘Bradley’s Birthday Favorite’.” 

“I love you.” You whispered, pulling you in tight, his voice choked by tears. “Thank you, Angel. You have no idea what this means to me.” 

“I love you too” You replied, holding him back just as tightly, your hands rubbing over his back. “I’m hoping I can do her recipes justice… give you back a small piece of her.” 

“Just the fact that you’re even going through all of this effort and trying means the absolute world to me.” He whispered.

“The cookbook has a bunch of her writing in it… wanna look at it?” You asked, pulling back just enough to look up at him, his eyes were red rimmed and watery. 

“Yeah.” He smiled, nodding as he leaned down to press a soft kiss to your forehead, “I’d love that.”

You walk him over to the counter and hand him the recipe book. He reaches for the book, running his hand over it reverently. His eyes well up again as he opens the cover and sees a bunch of notes his mom had written on the front cover. 

You don’t say anything, just rub his back gently while he flips through the pages. 

“This… is….” He paused, trying to gather his thoughts, or emotions… you just give him time. “It’s like you said… it gives me a piece of my mom back.”

“We can cook as many of those recipes as you want, whenever you want.” You said gently, “We can invite Mav over if you want too… or just work our way through the book and you can add bookmarks to whatever you like and we’ll make those dishes often.”

He set the book gently on the counter and once again wrapped you into a tight embrace. 

“You are everything to me, Angel.” He whispered, burying his face into your hair.

“You are my whole world, B. My person… the absolute love of my life.” You replied, pressing a soft kiss to his chest over his heart. 

The two of you stood there in the kitchen, holding one another for several moments before you gently pulled back to look up at him, smiling. 

“Come with me…” You instructed, sliding your hand into his and leading him towards the living room, “I’ve got presents for you.”

“Beautiful, you’ve already given me literally everything.” He chuckled, following you. 

“Sit down.” You said, gently pushed him onto the couch, smiling when he looked at you with a bemused look. You went to the table and grabbed the two gifts, bringing them over and sitting next to him on the couch. You handed him the one with the shirt first. 

He took the box, smiling over at you. He shakes the box, making you laugh, before he tears off the paper and lifts the lid. 

“Holy shit!” He laughed as he pulls it from the box, “Angel this is absolutely fucking perfect! Where did you even find something like this?”

“The internet is an amazing tool.” You replied, smiling back at him. “There’s a huge selection of them too, so… if you want more we can order more.” He leans over and kisses you, smiling against your lips. 

“Thank you, Beautiful.” He said, holding it up to look at it again, “I can’t wait to wear this one out to The Hard Deck.”

“Oh god…” You laughed, “The squad will have a field day.” 

“Yup.” He agreed, a huge smile on his face, “But I don’t even care. This shirt is too amazing for their negativity.”

“I adore you.” You smiled, shaking your head. You reached for the next one, giddy now. Excitement was making it hard to sit still. You handed him the next package. “This one is in parts… and involves a little field trip.”

“A field trip?” He asked, taking the box, his eyes sparkling with amusement, “I’m intrigued.” He unwrapped the box, opening it carefully. His eyes flew to yours, wide and questioning, mixed with hope as he lifted the dog collar, leash and rooster toy from the box, along with the application. “Angel… are we… did you…?”

“Your face whenever you see a dog while we’re on the beach or out for a walk is one of pure joy.” You answered, “You’ve talked about wanting a dog…about how you’ve always wanted a dog… I know before it would have been too hard, but now that we live together… I’ll be here to take care of him while you’re gone. I went on the San Diego Humane Society’s page and I found a two year old Golden Retriever who sounds like he’d be the perfect furbaby. I started the application for him, but we’re going to take a field trip to go meet him and you get final say.”

Bradley looked down at the application in his hands then back at you. 

“Angel this is… I don’t even have words.” He whispered, getting choked up again. “I have wanted a dog since I was a kid…my mom was allergic… then I was in college.. Then the Navy. Are you sure? Is this something you’d want too?”

“I am absolutely sure, Baby.” You assured him, “I love dogs and am more than happy to adopt a furbaby with you. It’s why I stalked the Human Society’s webpage.”

“Can we go now?” He asked, his excitement now bubbling over. 

“Yup.” You laughed softly, “Let me get changed quickly and we can go.”

You ran upstairs to change into a pair of cutoff jean shorts and a Tshirt from The Hard Deck. Penny had them made for a co-ed softball team she’d sponsored and had leftovers so she’d given them to the squad (and you). 

Once you were ready you headed back downstairs to find Bradley still sitting on the couch, but practically vibrating with excitement. 

“Ok, Baby.” You said, when you go to the bottom of the stairs, “Let’s go.” 

He did not need to be told twice. 

He pulled the Bronco into the Humane Society’s parking lot and into a spot, putting it into park and turning it off. 

The two of you walked into the building, and immediately you could hear dogs barking and cats meowing. It was a busy place. 

“Hello, welcome in!” The lady at the front desk said, smiling, “What brings you in today?”

“We’d like to look at the dogs please.” You said, “We’re interested in adopting.”

“Wonderful!” She said, “Is there a specific size, age, breed you’re looking for?”

“Actually, can we meet the two year old Retriever you have?” You asked, purposely not using his name yet. 

“He’s actually out back, getting some sun and fresh air right now with one of the volunteers.” She smiled, “Come on through, you can meet him out there and play with him.”

You slid your hand into Bradley’s as you walked through the room and past the kennels with the other dogs. You could see it was killing him not to stop and pet every single one of them. Once outside, you spotted Goose immediately with the volunteer. The lady from the front desk led you over. 

“These two are interested in this cutie patootie.” She said, leaning over to scratch Goose’s ears. 

“He’s a sweet boy. He loves to play, and explore but also loves some snuggle time with whoever is willing.” The volunteer smiled, “Meet Goose.”

Bradley’s breath caught, you could hear him softly gasp. He froze for a second before looking at you. You bit your lip, eyes meeting his. 

Goose took that opportunity to come over and nose Bradley’s hand before licking him and plopping down right in front of him, his big brown eyes looking up at Bradley hopefully, tongue hanging out of his mouth, almost smiling. 

“Hi, Goose.” Bradley whispered, his voice horse, emotions choking him, “Hey buddy.” He crouched down and started to pet the dog, scratching his ears until Goose rolled to his back, silently requesting belly rubs. Bradley chuckled and obliged. “You’re just a wet noodle, aren’t you? You like to play too?”

“He loves to play.” The volunteer said “He’ll chase a ball, play tug-o-war, he loves stuffies. He loves to go for walks. He’s got a lot of energy.”

You crouched down by your boyfriend and the dog, running your hand over Goose’s fur. 

“What do you think, Baby?” You asked, smiling softly at Bradley. 

“I think we need to finish the application you started.” He said, looking over at you, leaning in to gently kiss your forehead, “You were right, Angel. He’s perfect. Thank you.”

“We’d like to adopt Goose, please.” You smiled up at the volunteer and the lady from the front desk. 

That night, after dinner and cake and playing with Goose, you and Bradley were curled up together in bed, with Goose in his bed on the floor next to yours. The room was quiet except for the soft hum of the fan and Goose’s content doggy snores. You were laying tucked into Bradley, facing one another on the soft bed. 

“This has been the best birthday that I can remember having in a really long time,” Bradley whispered.

You didn’t speak, giving him time to gather his thoughts. You traced your hand gently over his side and back soothingly. 

“My dad died a month after I turned 2.” He said softly. “My mom always did her best, made sure my birthdays were celebrated and I had a party and felt loved…but as I got older I could see how hard it was on her, how much she missed my dad, the pain. She’d fall into a depression every July… so I started to associate my birthday with the coming of her sad month. Then when I was 16 she was diagnosed with cancer. Chemo hit her hard… she fought like hell. Even though she felt like garbage she made Mav come celebrate my 17th birthday. He tried to make the cake and lasagna and almost burned the house down.” He chuckled through his tears that had escaped, “I think we all knew that would be the last birthday I’d get with her… she died a week later.”

“Oh, Baby.” You whispered, pulling him tighter, as if the tighter you held him you could somehow make things better. “I’m so sorry you had to go through all of that. I’m sorry you lost your dad at such a young age… and then had to lose your mom so young too. It’s not easy at any age to lose a parent but to be dealt those blows both at young ages…the universe just fucking sucks sometimes.”

“It did have its really shitty moments.” He agreed in a soft whisper, “But all of it got me here to this moment… with you.. And for the first time since I was an angry seventeen year old kid… I feel like I can breathe… and getting through the anniversaries doesn’t feel as daunting this year. I’m not alone anymore because I have you by my side… and now Goose too.”

“You will always have me, Bradley.” You promised, looking at him in the dim moonlight coming in through the window. “For as long as you want me.”

“Does forever work for you?” He asked, kissing your forehead. 

“Are you proposing?” You smiled softly 

“Not yet.” He chuckled, “But I plan on it. Soon.”

“Forever works just fine for me.” You answered. 

“I love you, Angel.” He said, pulling you closer, his body finally relaxing, sleep creeping in. 

“I love you too, Handsome.” You replied, yawning as you nuzzled against him.  “Happy Birthday.”

***

AN: Originally had this where Goose's death anniversary was June 29 then realized I'm an idiot and it's JULY so had to rework the plot before posting... Let me know what you think! Also.. if I missed plot holes lol. Hope you enjoy it!!!

***

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You were building a sand castle on the beach with your niece when a stray football came flying out of nowhere and would have been a missile to the castle had your reflexes not kicked in to intercept it in time. 

“HEADS UP!” Someone down the beach yelled as another guy came running over. 

“Oh my god I am so sorry, are you ok?” He asked, genuine concern in his whiskey colored eyes. He had on jean cut off shorts and wasn’t wearing a shirt, which just showed off his unfairly chiseled abs. 

“We’re good.” You said, managing to keep your voice normal sounding, despite your brain short circuiting at the incredibly good looking man in front of you…even with the mustache that you’d normally not find attractive. “Managed to intercept the missile before it hit the castle.” You smiled and handed him back the football.

“Well that’s a relief!” He smiled back, his fingers brushing yours as he took it, electricity shooting up your arm. “Wouldn’t want to take out any civilian castles today… especially ones as cool as that one.”

“Livie here is the master castle builder.” You said, smiling at your niece, “I’m just her assistant.” 

“It makes sense that she’s a master castle builder.” He said, smiling and winking at your niece, who blushed and giggled up at him, “I bet she’s a princess in disguise.”

“How did you guess?” You asked in a stage whisper, “That’s top secret information.”

“I’m trained to be very observant.” He replied smiling, then looked at your niece “Your secret is safe with me, Princess Livie.”

“BRADSHAW! STOP FLIRTING AND GET THE BALL!” His friend down the beach yelled. 

“Looks like you’re being summoned.” You smiled up at him. 

He chuckled, shaking his head. “Patience isn’t really in their vocabulary.”

“Do you wanna build with us?” Livie asked, her big brown eyes looking up at him.

“Liv, I’m sure he wants to get back to his friends and football, sweetie.” You said gently. 

“Actually… building sand castles sounds a lot more fun.” He answered, winking at Livie with a smile, “Let me go toss this ball back to my friends and let them know I’m ditching the for a better offer and I’ll be right back.”

“Ok!” Livie said happily. “See, Auntie Dovey? He wants to play!”

“I guess he does, Jellybean.” You smile softly. 

“Just give me a minute and I’ll be back… don’t build without me.” He said before jogging back over to his group of friends. 

You watched him for a moment but then forced yourself to look away, not wanting to get caught staring. Instead, you turned to your niece and smiled. She was having fun today. It was taking her mind off of her dad being gone, which had been the goal. You reached over and brushed a stray curl from her face. 

“Let’s get some more sunscreen on you quickly” You said, “And maybe take a juice break while we wait for your new friend to come back to build.”

“He can be your friend too, Auntie Dovey.” Livey said sweetly. 

“Thanks, Jellybean.” You smiled. 

You slathered her up with sunscreen again and then reached into the cooler to grab a juicebox out of her and a bottle of water out for yourself. 

“Can I have fruit snacks too, please?” She asked, sipping her juice. 

“Sure can.” You said, reaching into your bag and grabbing a pouch of fruit snacks out. “Disney fruit snacks, good enough for my little Princess.” 

“Thanks, Auntie Dovey.” She said, taking the pouch. 

“Looks like you have found a royal snack.” Bradley said coming back over. He’d put on a Hawaiian shirt… but left it unbuttoned. 

“Welcome back.” You said, smiling. 

“Thanks.” He replied, crouching down next to you and Livie. “So, I realized I didn’t introduce myself earlier. I’m Bradley.”

“Didn’t your friends call you Bradshaw?” You asked, looking over at him. 

“Yup. Bradley Bradshaw.” He said smiling, “My parents had a sense of humor I guess.” 

“I like it.” You said, smiling, “I’m Y/N… and you already know Livie..well Olivia, but nobody really calls her that.”

“It’s nice to meet you both..officially.” he smiled, “Ready to build some amazing sand castles, Princess Livie?”

“Yup!” She said excitedly. 

The three of you played in the sand building a very large sand castle. You watched Bradley with your niece, your heart melting at how sweet he was with her. Livie was loving the attention… you had a feeling it had something to do with her missing her dad. 

“So when you’re not helping princesses build amazing sand castles, what do you spend your days doing?” You asked, putting a shell on the castle as decoration. 

“I’m a Navy aviator.” He said smiling as he handed another shell to Livie. 

“My Daddy is in the Navy!” Livie said, popping her head up, “You fly planes?” My daddy fixes planes!”

“He does?” Bradley asked “That’s a really important job. I can’t fly safely unless my plane works!”

“My Daddy is on a big ship right now.” She said, a little less enthusiastically now. “He’s been there a really really long time. That’s why Auntie Dovey is taking care of me.”

“I’d happily spend the day on the beach with you anytime, Jellybean.” You said, smiling softly at your niece, “But, it has been a long few months and I figured a beach day was in order today.”

“Deployments are tough.” Bradley said, “Especially when they’re long. I bet your Daddy is missing you just as much, Sweetheart.” 

“Can we take a picture of our castle for Daddy?” Livie asked, looking at you. “He loves building castles with me!”

“We sure can.” You said, reaching over to grab your phone. “Hop on into that picture, Jellybean. I’m sure Daddy wants to see his Princess.”

“Here, let me take one with both of you in it.” Bradley offered, smiling. “I’m sure he’s missing you both.”

“Thank you.” You smiled, looking over at him, “That’s sweet. Although I’m sure he misses Livie most of all.”

You moved so you were next to Livie, your arms around her, both smiling at the camera as Bradley snapped a few pictures. Afterwards, Livie asked to take her bucket and go closer to the water, looking for more shells. You said she could but to stay where you could see her and not to go into the water. She took off running to the wet sand to dig for shells. 

“She’s adorable.” Bradley said looking over at you, “How old is she?”

“She’ll be 7 next month.” You replied, looking back at him, smiling, “My brother, Luke should be back in time…provided the Navy doesn’t extend the deployment….again.”

“Again?” He asked. 

“The deployment wasn’t supposed to be this long. He’s already been out 5 months.” You said. “It was only supposed to be a quick 3 months at sea this time.”

“That’s rough when the short ones turn into long hauls.” He replied, “It’s never been that big of a deal for me, but I know the others in my squadrons have had families to get home to and it’s hard on them.”

“No family waiting on you to get back to shore?” You asked, “Someone special?”

“Nope.” He replied, something looking like pain flashing across his eyes before he masked it again. “No family…and single. My squadron now has become like a ragtag family…and I recently reconnected with my godfather… but that’s… complicated.”

“I definitely understand complicated family dynamics.” You said, looking over to where Livie was still playing. 

“So how’s her mom doing with the deployment?” He asked, chuckling as Livie cheered at finding another shell. 

“Her mom left the picture when she was just shy of a year old.” You said. “Signed over full parental rights and custody to Luke… two weeks before he was set to set sail on a 6 month deployment.”

“Holy shit.” He said softly. “That’s … wow….”

“Yeah.” You replied, “Luke called me in an absolute panic. He was stationed in Pensacola then. I jumped on a plane and was there by that night. We got it all figured out… eventually. I’m a freelance writer and can do that from pretty much anywhere, so I moved to Pensacola then here to San Diego. Whenever Luke deploys, I’m Livie’s guardian.”

“It’s just the three of you then? No parents or other family?” He asked

“It’s… complicated.” You laughed softly. “Parents… never great at the whole parenting thing. We have an aunt here… well sort of. She was best friends with our mom in college and she kinda took us under her wing… made sure we always had what we needed and were taken care of.”

“Looks like you and your brother landed on your feet.” He smiled, “And you’re doing great with Livie.”

“Thanks.” You replied, smiling back. 

Livie came running back with her bucket, dropping down in front of the two of you, smiling ear to ear.

“Look how many shells I found!” She exclaimed, “Can I take them home, Auntie Dovey?”

“Sure, Jellybean.” You laughed, “You can take them home. Those are very cool shells.”

“You’ve got quite the collection there!” Bradley said, looking into her bucket.

“Can we go show Auntie Penny?” She asked, excitedly. “And Amelia?”

“We can stop by before we leave.” You smiled. “I don’t know if Ames will be there.”

“Penny is the aunt you were talking about?” Bradley asked, his eyes wide in shock. 

“Yeah…” You said, you look over and smile in understanding. “You must frequent the Hard Deck…”

“I mean… yeah…” He chuckled, “But… she’s… dating my godfather.”

“Pete's your godfather?” You asked, laughing. “He’s… a bit of a wildcard. But he’s been good for my aunt… this time. Luke, Amelia and I all gave him the shovel talk.”

“He deserves it.” Bradley laughed, “For what it’s worth… I think he’s settling down. Both personally and professionally. He finally accepted the promotion of rank and is staying on at Top Gun. He’s in charge of the Dagger Squadron.”

“Is that your squadron?” You asked 

“Yeah.” He replied, “We were brought together to fly a mission last October and when we got back they decided to keep us as a unit. It took a bit to get all of our orders changed and reassigned.”

“So you’re… here in San Diego permanently?” You asked

“As permanent as the Navy can guarantee.” He replied, “We fly missions and we’ll deploy, but not like other squadrons.”

“I’m glad he’s sticking around then.” You said, “Penny seems really happy.”

“I’m hungry.” Livie said, moving to sit in your lap. “Can we go eat at Auntie Penny’s?”

“We can stop and say hi, but she’s getting ready to open… and I somehow don’t think Daddy would approve of me having you in a bar when it’s open, Jellybean.” You laugh.  “How about we get a pizza on the way home?”

“Cheese and pepperoni?” She asked

“Of course.” You agreed. 

“That’s a good choice.” Bradley said, smiling. “I parked over by The Hard Deck so I can walk that way with you if you’re going there first.”

“Sure, that sounds good.” You replied, standing up and brushing the sand off of you. “We actually parked over there too… Livie just wanted to come down this way to build.”

You helped Livie put her sundress on over her bathing suit and then tucked the towels into the bag. You had on shorts over your swimsuit and had opted for a one piece today so you just pulled a tshirt on over it. 

“I can help carry your cooler, and whatever else you need me to carry.” Bradley offered, smiling. 

“Thank you.” You replied, taking Livie’s hand with your free hand. 

The three of you start walking down the beach heading the way Bradley had come from earlier when playing football with his friends. Once you got close to The Hard Deck’s back entrance, Livie spotted Amelia sitting on the patio and took off running towards her. 

“How does she still have so much energy?” Bradley asked, chuckling. 

“If I knew that, I could bottle it up and make a fortune.” You laughed, looking up at him.

“Or power a small country.” He teased, winking at you. 

“You’re probably not wrong.” You smile, shaking your head.

Livie is showing her shells to Amelia when you get to the patio. She smiles when she sees you. 

“Hey, Dove.” Amelia said, “Hi Bradley. Livie said y’all were building castles today.”

“Hi, Ames.” You smiled, “We were… decided a beach day was needed… and we made a new friend…but I hear you already know one another.”

“Yup.” She smiled, looking at Bradley, then back at you “I did always say I wish I had a brother like you… guess I’m kinda getting one… of sorts.”

“I’ll happily be your big brother, Amelia.” Bradley chuckled, “Is Mav inside with your mom?”

“Of course.” She said, playfully rolling her eyes. “The rest of your squadron is in there too. Mom’s about to open to the general public though.” 

“That’s our cue to run in and see Aunt Penny before the crowds hit and it’s no longer suitable for a 6 year old in there.” You said, laughing. 

You guide Livie into the bar. The jukebox is already on and you notice the group that had been playing football with Bradley earlier was indeed all gathered at the pool table. He didn’t go over to them though, instead he followed you and Livie to the bar where Penny was slicing limes and lemons for the night and Mav was stocking the cooler with beer.

“Auntie Penny!” Livie said excitedly, climbing up onto a barstool. 

“Hey there, Jellybean.” She replied, smiling, “Auntie Dove brought you to the beach today, huh?” 

“Yup!” She confirmed, “And we builded sand castles and Bradley came and played with us! We made a super big castle… with shells for windows!”

“Wow, that sounds like a way cooler day that I had.” She winked at the little girl, then smiled over at you and Bradley. “Hi, Dove, Bradley.” 

“Hi Aunt Penny.” You said, smiling. “We wanted to stop in before we head home to get pizza.”

“I’m glad you did.” She replied, “I was going to call you later anyway. Are you and Livie free tomorrow?”

“Yeah. Just getting groceries at some point.” You said.

“Then the two of you are coming over for dinner. Pete and I are going to grill out and take advantage of me not having to come into the bar.” She smiled. 

“Sounds fun.” You said, smiling, “What do you want me to bring?” 

“Just yourself and that sweet little girl.” She winked, then looked at Bradley, “We expect you to be there too, Bradley.”

“Yes, Ma’am.” He chuckled, “Should I bring anything?”

“Just yourself.” She laughed. 

“How did you manage to end up building castles with Dove and Livie, Rooster?” Mav asked, finishing with the beer in the cooler.

“Jake launched a longshot down the beach and I didn’t get to it in time.” Bradley explained

“Thankfully, I have fast reflexes and saved the castle from being bombed.” You laughed. 

“Then Bradley said he’d build with us!” Livie said happily, looking up at him. 

A woman with dark hair came up next to Bradley on the other side, smirking. She looked over at you and Livie and her expression changed to curiosity. 

“Hey Phoenix,” Penny said smiling, “What can I get you?”

“The squad needs another round please, Penny… on Bagman’s tab.” She replied, smiling. 

“Hey, Nix.” Bradley said

“Hey, Rooster.” She replied, smiling, “I can see why you ditched football for sand castles now.”

“What can I say..” He said, “Livie had a much better offer. She’s a sand castle Queen… you don’t turn down royalty, Nix.”

“I guess not.” She laughed, then looked over at you. “I’m Natasha…or Phoenix… I answer to both.”

“I’m Y/N.” You replied, smiling, “It’s nice to meet you.”

“You too.” She said, returning the smile. 

“Bradley… why does everyone keep calling you Rooster?” Livie asked, looking up at him. 

“It’s my callsign…. Kinda like a nickname.” He replied, leaning in closer to her, “Pilots all have them…and sometimes everyone uses that more than our real names.”

“A nickname…” She said and you could almost see the wheels in her head turning as she processed the information. Her eyes lit up, she looked over at you, “Like your real name is Y/N but you’re Auntie Dovey.. And Daddy just calls you Dove.”

“Exactly.” You smiled, lovingly at your niece, “And how we all call you Jellybean.”

Phoenix looks at Bradley, raising her eyebrow, smirking. Thankfully, Penny has the drinks ready for her to take to the squad.

“Here you go, Phoenix.” Penny said, winking, “On Hangman’s tab as requested.”

“Thanks, Penny.” She replied, smiling. She picked the tray of drinks up then looked over at Bradley, “You planning on joining us tonight?”

“Maybe later.” he replied, “Gonna run home and shower…change. I’ll text you.”

She nods, looks over at you and smiles, “It was nice to meet you… hope to see you around.”

“You too.” You replied, smiling. Once she headed back towards the pool table, you looked over at Penny, “We should get going. I have to pick up pizza on the way home for Livie and she will be ready for a bath, movie and early bed today after being outside all day.”

“I’ll walk out with you.” Bradley said, smiling. He looked over at Livie who was already looking like her energy levels were waning. “Hey, Princess Livie… want a piggy back ride out to the car?” 

She smiled up at him like he’d hung the moon, her whole face lighting up. 

“Yes, please!” She replied. 

“Hop on up.” He said, then helped her to carefully stand on the barstool so she could climb onto his back. His arms went around her legs to securely hold her while her arms held onto him around his neck as she leaned onto him.  “After you.” He smiled and winked. 

You said goodbye to Penny and Mav and then led the way out to the parking lot and to your car. Bradley carefully crouched down so that Livie could get down, while you put the small cooler and bags into the trunk. He helped her into the backseat and buckled her into the booster seat. 

“Thanks for letting me hang out with you two today.” He said once he’d closed her door. 

“I should be thanking you…” You said smiling, “You really made her day… and I had a lot of fun too.”

“I know I’ll see you both at Penny’s tomorrow for dinner,” He said, looking almost bashful as he rubbed the back of his neck nervously, “But, would you want to get dinner with me sometime? Or coffee?”

You smile softly, your eyes meeting his, your heart beating a little harder as you reply, “Are you asking me out?”

“Yeah,” He chuckled, smiling the same sweet smile that had made your stomach flutter all day, “Yeah, I am.”

“I’d love to, Bradley.” You replied, butterflies once more fluttering in your belly. “Dinner… coffee… either, or both sound great.” 

“I’ll take both then.” He said, his smile getting bigger. “Since you already agreed… no take-backsies.” 

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” You laughed, “I’ll see you tomorrow at Penny’s… we can make plans from there.”

“Sounds perfect.” He agreed, “Have a great night, Y/N.”

“You too, Bradley.” You replied, smiling as you opened the door and got in. 

He waved at Livie and then turned to head toward his own vehicle. 

Once you arrived home you ordered a pizza and got Livie in a quick bath then changed into her Pjs. The pizza arrived about 45 minutes later and you set her up to eat while watching a movie. As you ate, you pulled your phone out and sent a quick message to your brother. 

YOU: Hey Big Brother! Took Livie to the beach today… she was in need of a pick me up. We built sand castles so she was in her element (see attached pictures). She’s doing great. School’s out for the summer so we’re hanging out and living our best lives now.  Our sand castle was almost destroyed by enemy fire today (AKA a football)... thankfully all of those backyard rounds of catch paid off and I was able to intercept it before it was a direct hit. It did result though in meeting a really great guy. He’s actually an aviator. He was playing football with his squadron, but then ditched them to build sand castles with Livie the rest of the afternoon. He’s actually Pete’s godson. Small world. Having dinner at Penny’s tomorrow… He’s going to be there too. Lukey… I like him. Also… he asked me on a date. 

Have to go for now, Livie is finishing her pizza. Gonna let her watch a few more minutes of Moana and then get her off to bed. Love you and miss you. ♥️Dovey

You hit send and then set your phone down. A few minutes later, Livie was done with her pizza and already starting to nod off. You paused the movie and helped her up the stairs to get her teeth brushed and then tucked her into bed. You promised tomorrow to help her write a letter to her dad. She wanted to send a picture she drew and tell him all about her new friend. You had a feeling Luke would be hearing an awful lot about Bradley in the coming days.

***

A/N: Thoughts? Do we want more? Leave it here? LET ME KNOW!

***

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“Are you ready?” Penny asked you, “Pete said Bradley is about to storm the tower, figuratively speaking, he’s not sure he can keep him back much longer.”

“I’m ready.” You smiled, turning around to face her. The photographer snapped a few more pictures from inside the suite. 

“You’re beautiful, Sweetheart.” Penny said, tears in her eyes. “Bradley is going to lose it when he sees you.”

“I’m calling it right now that Bradley, Jake, and Mav will all lose it when they see her.” Natasha said, coming over with your bouquet of flowers as well as her own. “Bradley was already a mess when I was in there. Jake was barely keeping it together to keep him together and Mav wasn’t much help either.”

“I have a feeling I’m going to be putting this waterproof mascara to the test once I see Bradley.” You admitted, laughing. 

“Alright, let’s head out to do a first look then we will do bride and father of the bride shots before the ceremony.” The photographer said. 

“I’ll go let them know we’re ready for them and have them move into position.” Penny said, “I’ll see you out there, Sweetheart.” 

Penny hugged you before heading out of the room. Natasha helped you with the train of your dress so you wouldn’t step on it as you made your way to where you’d make the big reveal to Bradley. You’d gone back and forth on whether or not you wanted to have him see you first walking down the aisle or if you wanted to take first look photos and the two of you had finally decided on capturing the moment for just yourselves. 

Once you were in position, Natasha smoothed your train out and took your flowers to stand off to the side out of the way of the photographer but where she’d be able to see everyone’s reactions. 

Ahead of you, Bradley stood with his back to you, with Jake on one side and Mav on the other. You could see what Penny had been talking about, Bradley could not stand still.  Nervous energy was radiating off of him. You knew he wasn’t nervous about marrying you or anxious in that sense, but it was the kind of energy that curses through you making it hard to sleep the night before Christmas when you’re a kid. The knowledge that something really good is about to happen and you’re just ready for it. You knew it was what he was feeling because you were feeling the same thing. 

You’d opted for the men to not wear their dress uniforms, but to be in suits instead. While you absolutely loved your soon to be husband in his dress whites, you wanted him to be comfortable on his wedding day and he did not enjoy being in his formal dress uniforms. 

“Alright, your bride is in place.” The photographer said, “I’ll give the countdown and then you’ll turn around to catch your first look…are you ready, Bradley?”

“I am so ready.” He said, his voice already thick with emotion. 

She glanced at you for acknowledgement that you’re ready and you gave a head nod, smiling. 

“Ok, here we go.” She started, “On three you will turn… one…. two….. Three.”

As soon as she said “three”, all three men turned around, but Bradley was quickest. The look in his eyes and on his face as he saw you for the first time caused your heart to melt. You could see the love he had for you clearly on display, a soft smile of awe spreading across his face. You took in the sight of him in his suit while he was soaking in the sight of you in your wedding gown. The suit fit him perfectly, hugging him nicely in all the right places. 

“Dove…” He rasped, unfreezing and starting to walk towards you. “You are so fucking beautiful, Baby.” 

“You’re looking pretty damn handsome yourself.” You replied, stepping forward towards him. 

The photographer was snapping away, but neither of you were paying attention to anyone but each other. Once you were standing in front of him, he reached out to take you gently into his arms. You wound your own arms around his neck, tugging him closer until your foreheads were pressed together. 

“I love you.” You whispered. 

“I love you too.” He whispered back, leaning forward to gently kiss you. “I can’t wait to marry you.”

“I can’t wait to be your wife…” You giggled, “Finally.”

“Alright, alright, that’s enough of that.” Jake said, coming over to break the two of you apart, his eyes suspiciously wet. “No more hanky panky until the ‘I Do’s’. Hand over my Dove, Bradshaw.”

“Do I have to?” He asked you, not letting you go. 

“Just for a little bit.” You promised, “But it won’t be long until I meet you at the end of the aisle.”

“Fine.” He pouted, “But only because once you make it down that aisle nobody can steal you from me anymore.”

“Roo, nobody can steal me from you now.” You smiled, lovingly at your very soon to be husband. “You are the love of my life Bradley Bradshaw… I’ve known that since I was 7 years old. I’m glad you finally caught up.”

“Baby, I caught up a long time ago.” He protested, “There were extenuating circumstances!” 

“I’m teasing.” You laughed, kissing him softly before carefully stepping back, making sure not to step on your train. “I’ll see you at the altar, handsome.”

“I’ll be the one still in awe that the beautiful creature walking towards me is mine… and trying not to cry too hard.” He said. “Hurry… I don’t wanna wait any longer to spend forever with you.”

“Right behind you, Flyboy.” You promised. 

“I’ll go make sure he isn’t a hot mess while he waits on you.” Jake said, before carefully pulling you into a hug, “You’re absolutely breathtaking, Darlin’. I am so happy for you.”

“Thank you, Jakers.” You replied, hugging him back tightly, “I love you. I am so beyond grateful that the universe gave me you as a best friend but also as the family I got to choose…the brother I always begged for. I will always choose you, Jakers.”

“Now you’re gonna go and make me cry, Dovey.” He said, voice thick and raspy from emotion, “I Love you too, Darlin’. More than you’ll ever know. Thank you for seeing through me and my assholishness…for digging deeper and refusing to give up on me. You’re the sister I prayed for….the family I prayed for, and I will always choose you too.” 

“Crap, now I’m crying too.” You replied tearfully, “I’ll be really testing this mascara today.” 

“Still beautiful.” He replied, pulling back to carefully wipe the tears from your face, mindful of your makeup. “Alright, Dovey, I’m going to turn you over to Mav and Natasha and head out there with Bradley.”

“Thank you.” You smiled, hugging him one more time before he headed to join Bradley at the altar where you’d be heading shortly. 

“Sweetheart.” Mav said, choking up as he stepped over to you. “You look so beautiful. I can’t believe my baby girl is all grown up and getting married.”

“Thank you, Dad.” You replied, smiling with tears still in your own eyes. “You’re very handsome in your suit. I know you absolutely hate it.”

“It’s not as bad as I thought it would be.” He chuckled, “But anything for my little girl. Are you ready? Not too late to run.”

You knew he was only teasing. Even through the dark years, as you referred to them as, your dad always hoped that you and Bradley would find your way back to one another. His biggest regret would always be driving a wedge between the two of you, even if it had only been temporarily. You and Bradley had reunited several years before he’d made peace with your dad again. It had been a rocky road to navigate but you’d had enough of life without Bradley and had out-stubborned him… refusing to back down and let him shut you out any longer. After that it had been easy to take it a step further and admit to him that you’d been in love with him since you were a kid. The rest is history. 

“Nothing could keep me from marrying that man today, Dad.” You laughed. 

“I wish Carole was here to see the two of you finally get married.” He said, wiping tears from his eyes, “She knew… all along… she always told me that you and Bradley were destined for one another.”

“That’s because Carole knew everything.” You smiled, “And she’s here, Dad… her and Goose…and Uncle Tom… they’re here. They’re part of us, we are who we are because they were a part of our lives…that therefore, they live on through all of us.”

“How did you get to be so wise beyond your years?” He asked, hugging you tightly.

“I was raised by a lot of really wise people.” You replied, hugging him back. 

“It’s time to get this one down the aisle to a very impatient groom.” Natasha said, walking over to hand you your bouquet. 

“Ready to go, Sweetheart?” Mav asked, offering you his arm. You link your arm through his, holding your flowers in the other hand. 

“More than ready.” You beamed, “Please don’t let me trip!”

“I’ll always be here to catch you.” Mav promised, leaning over to kiss your forehead. “Let’s get you to the groom.”

Natasha led the way to the path that would take you down the aisle and to your best friend… our soul mate. When you were in place, she gave you a quick hug then, when the music shifted she headed down the aisle to stand on the opposite side from Bradley and Jake. Your eyes were locked on Bradley, but you didn’t miss the look that flashed across Jake’s face as he watched Natasha walk down the aisle and you made a mental note to revisit that at a later date. 

Once Natasha took her place up front, the music shifted again to play From This Moment. Everyone stood and turned to look towards you as your dad started to walk with you down the aisle towards the love of your life. Your eyes remained on Bradley and his eyes on you, neither of you able to look away. Everyone else faded to the background… your entire world became him and him alone. 

When you reached the altar, Bradley stepped forward, tears in his eyes but a happy smile on his face. Mav turned, leaned in and once again kissed your forehead before placing your hand in Bradley’s. 

“I love you, Sweetheart.” He whispered, then turned to Bradley, “Take good care of my little girl.” 

“Of course.” Bradley said, “But I think she takes care of me.”

Mav stepped back to go sit in the front row with Penny and Amelia. Bradley took your hand and led you the rest of the way up to the altar. 

You handed your flowers to Natasha before turning to Bradley, the two of you joining hands. You’d asked Admiral Bates to perform the ceremony for you both, being that he’d known you both for a long time. 

“Bradley and Y/N have written their own vows to one another.” Bates said when it was time to exchange the vows. “Bradley, you go first.”

“Dove, I have been waiting to marry you for a really long time.” He started, “You have been my best friend, my partner in crime, the other half of my soul for as long as I can remember. I have loved you since the day I met you… even though it took me a little longer to realize that…and even longer to do something about it.” That got him some laughs from everyone, including you. “You have always been my anchor, keeping me rooted when I feel like everything is being torn apart, you’re the light in the storm guiding me home, the voice that drowns out the negative doubts and gives me confidence… you believed in me before I believed in myself.”

He paused to take a deep breath and choke down the tears threatening to overtake him. You pulled one of your hands away to wipe the tears from your cheek before placing your hand back in his. 

“I don’t know how on Earth I got lucky enough to be the one you chose but I promise to love you with everything I am, be your anchor when you need one, your light in any storm, your biggest supporter cheering you on. I promise to always do everything in my power to come home to you. I promise to let you always have the last sour gummy worm in the bag, to let you use me as a human space heater when you’re cold, and to save you from all of the spiders that make their way into our house. Y/N Y/M/N Mitchell, you are my past, you are my right now and you are my forever and always.”

When he finished, you had to once more wipe tears from your eyes and take a deep breath, knowing you were going to have to find your voice now. 

“Y/N”, Bates said, smiling at you, “Your turn for your vows.”

You took another deep breath to gather your emotions before looking at Bradley and smiling. 

“Roo, I have been waiting to marry you since I was in second grade.” You started, making everyone laugh. Those that knew the full background knew you weren’t exaggerating. “I always knew it was going to be you… even when the world went sideways for a bit and we veered off the path. There was never anyone else I could picture spending my life with. You’re my best friend. The other half of my soul. You’ve always been my rock… my person… my constant. With you, I know I’m safe to take chances because you’ll be there to catch me if I fall. You’re there to cheer me on and quiet the voices of doubt in my head…filling me instead with so much love, positivity and confidence to take on the world.” You paused to swallow, emotion starting to bubble up and threatened to choke you. Bradley was fighting back tears, and in your peripheral vision you could see that Jake had long since lost the battle and was wiping his away. 

“I have loved you since the day we met,” You continued, smiling at him through tears that threatened to spill, “I promise to keep loving you with everything I am. I will always choose you, Bradley. You are and always have been my North Star. You are my home. I promise to always send you off with all of my love, my heart… and enough chocolate chip cookies and sour gummy worms to get you through your deployment. I promise to be right welcoming you home the moment you touch land again. I will make sure you don’t die of malnutrition because despite her very best efforts, Carole was unsuccessful in her attempts to teach you to cook. I love you, Bradley Nicholas Bradshaw. You are my entire world, yesterday, today and forever.”

You could hear sniffling from the front row, glancing over, you saw Penny handing your dad a tissue. The rest of your squad wasn’t faring much better. Their eyes were all looking a little red-rimmed as well. 

After the vows, Admiral Bates went into the exchanging of the rings. You’d decided to go the traditional route for the exchanging of the rings, reciting after Bates as you slipped the ring on one another’s finger. 

“By the power vested in me by the United States Navy and the State of California, I now pronounce you husband and wife.” Bates declared, smiling. “You may kiss your wife, Lieutenant.” 

“Yes, sir.” he replied, pulling you in close and crashing his lips down on yours. You wound your arms around his neck as he dipped you backwards. Cheers and applause erupted from your friends and family. 

Bradley stood you back back up, but not releasing you. 

“Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to introduce to you for the first time, Lieutenant and Mrs. Bradley Bradshaw.”

“It’s about time!” Amelia called from the front row, beaming at the two of you.

“Took the words right out of my mouth, Ames!” You replied, laughing. 

Bradley pulled you in for one more quick kiss before Natasha handed you back your bouquet and then he put your arm in his and guided you back down the aisle, both of you laughing when the song You’re My Best Friend by Queen starts playing. 

Once you reached the end of the aisle, Bradley pulled you into his arms again, your own wrapping round his neck, before lowering his head to capture your lips with his in a slow, deep kiss. 

“I love you, Wife.” He whispered when you’d pulled away to take a breath, your foreheads still touching. 

“I love you too, Husband.” You whispered back, smiling. 

A soft breeze blew, wrapping around you and gently lifting your veil before settling down again. 

You and Bradley froze, looking at one another for a moment before a soft smile spread over both of your faces. 

“I think that’s your mom’s way of saying she approves… and it’s about time.” You said quietly. 

“I have no doubt that you’re right, Dove.” He replied, his voice raspy again. “She would be leading the party. You’d be the only daughter in law she’d accept… would probably haunt me had I been stupid enough to not realize you were my soulmate.” 

“Rightfully so!” You teased, your eyes watery again with unshed tears. “I’m glad she raised a smart man.”

“Me too, Dove.” He chuckled. 

“Alright, you two lovebirds.” Jake said, joining you, “Time to go party!” 

“We’ve got all of the cars ready to head over to the reception.” Natasha said, “Ya’ll are in the front vehicle, the rest of us are riding behind as your wingmen.”

“Ready, Roo?” You asked him, smiling. 

“Yeah, Baby.” He replied, smiling back, “I’m ready.” 

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