#asltw

Jane and John had both eaten a quick bowl of cereal and some fruit for breakfast as they had slept in and were running slightly late for their afternoon plans. They got dressed quickly. Jane opted for black biker shorts and one of John’s shirts because she wanted one that had a bigger fit today. John put on a pair of athletic shorts and a t-shirt. They both wore gym shoes. 

The car ride over was filled with the duo singing along to one of John’s playlists. It bounced between the Black Eyed Peas to Britney Spears to Three Doors Down. They talked about when they were going to order the stuff for the home theater. Ramble brought up Fanboy to which Mute blushed and told him to drop it. They pulled into the parking lot of the bar both excited to play dog fight football for the first time. 

They saw that some of the others had already arrived and that some of them weren’t there yet. Jane was the first one out of the car this time. But John was quick to meet her on her side of the car. He opened the back door and reached into their beach bag for the sunscreen. He sprayed down Jane and then she returned the action. He grabbed the bag as Jane went to the trunk grabbing out their chairs just in case. 

Mute had a really good feeling about the day. After the week with the crew she was finally starting to feel like she fit in. The final point was what Mickey told her last night. How they were all her friends and that they loved having her here. More importantly, he was her friend. 

As they made their way behind the building they heard music coming from inside. As they rounded the building they saw Fanboy, Payback, Halo, and Hangman already on the patio. Fanboy and Mute made eye contact over Hangman’s shoulder and Mute put a finger to her lips telling him to be quiet. She carefully made her way behind Hangman. Once she was about a foot away from him she let out a loud “boo” which had the pilot jumping in the air screaming. 

He whipped around seeing the duo giggling behind him. Mute had a giant triumphant smile on her face. “Fuck Mute you’re just as sneaky as Bob is.” He told her, shaking his head. Mute made her way up the stairs gaining high fives from Payback and Halo. 

“Hi Fanboy.” Mute said to the back seater and he decided he’d never get tired of hearing her say his callsign. 

“Hiya Mute, have a good drive in?” He asked her with a friendly smile on his face.

“We did, even though I had to listen to John’s absolutely terrible singing the whole time.” John smacked the red head's arm at that. 

“Hey don’t be rude, I’m the best fucking singer you’ve ever heard.” He told her with a pout. 

“Oh yes I’m so sorry forgive me oh amazing one.” Mute said, trying hard not to laugh. Fanboy just stared at her, happy to see her calmer and more relaxed than when she left the night before. He hoped he could see her like this everyday. 

“I’ll forgive you this time. But only because you are just too damn cute not to.” John said as he tapped her nose with his finger giving her a beaming smile. She swatted his hand away in return before giving him an equally happy smile. 

“Where’s everyone else at?” John asked the group of aviators. 

“Omaha decided to stay home because his wife isn’t feeling well today. Fritz and Rooster are inside helping Penny, Mav and Hondo with something. Bob and Phoenix are on their way.” Halo replied to the taller man. 

“Where’s Coyote at?” Mute asked Hangman, the blonde seemed mildly surprised at the question. The only time she had spoken to him was in the air. 

“He had to run by the store to grab a case of water and some chips for lunch. He should be here soon though. Then we’ll see how good you play.” He responded to her sending a wink her way at the end of the sentence. 

“She’s gonna whoop your ass bagman.” Phoenix spoke up from behind him as she and Bob rounded the corner. Mute gave her a fist bump as they made their way onto the patio. 

“I’m gonna run the food inside. Then we can head out to the beach and get our chairs set up.” Phoenix said to Mute as she passed her, Mute gave her a nod in reply. Phoenix was quick running the food in and was out in less than a minute. As the two front seaters started down the stairs Mickey, John and Bob joined them. 

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They had finished setting up about 15 minutes ago. Chairs, umbrellas, coolers and bags all lined up. Natasha, Bob and Mickey had explained the rules of dogfight football and now they were all sat talking getting to know each other better. Mute stood up and announced she was going to run up to the bar and asked if anyone needed anything. They all told her they were fine. 

Then she was on her way to the building. She passed by Coyote on the patio who must've gotten there while they were setting up. She gave him a nod in greeting before slipping into the building a wave of cool air hitting her as she entered. Right before the door closed she heard Hangman speak up. 

“Have any of you heard her talk as much as she did this morning when she got here?” He asked the group but Mute didn’t stick around to hear their reply. She rushed to the bathroom as anxiety flowed through her.

She had finally felt like she was fitting in. She was hoping she could find a group where she was comfortable. But now she was regretting talking so much. She should’ve known better, thoughts of her childhood flowed through her mind. All the times kids, teachers and her parents told her she talked too much. How the kids would tell her to just shut up already. How her parents would reprimand her when teachers would write on her report cards that she was talkative. 

She had decided when she graduated high school and started the academy that she wouldn’t talk to anyone unless it was a superior. John was the only one she had opened up to in ages. He had wormed his way into her life no matter how much she silently protested. Now her heart broke as she realized it was like high school all over again.

She quickly went to the bathroom before slipping back outside and walking down the beach. Everyone was gathered around near the water so she hurried her steps until she was stood by John. He flung his arm over her shoulders and pulled her into a side hug continuing his conversation with Maverick. She noticed a beautiful woman she hadn't seen before standing and talking to Rooster about something. As their conversation died out Mav turned to Mute. 

“Hey Mute.” He greeted her with his usual Maverick smile then he gestured towards the woman that had been talking to Rooster. She wasn’t standing next to Rooster anymore she was right next to Mav. Mute must’ve zoned out because she didn’t see her walk over. 

“This is my fiancé Penny, I don’t think you’ve met her yet. She was out the two nights you guys came this week.” Then Maverick was nodding towards Mute and Ramble. “This is my new two seater team I was telling you about. Jane and John or otherwise known as Mute and Ramble.” 

“You are the pair that got tone on him Monday aren’t you?” Penny gave a beaming smile before extending her hand to shake the aviators. 

“That would be us.” John replied quickly with a proud smile on his face. 

“He needs his ego knocked down sometimes so thank you for that.” Penny said back, sending a wink towards Maverick. He gave her a playful shake of his head at that. 

“Alright old man, are you ready to get your ass kicked?” Rooster said as he came up behind Maverick and slapped him on the back lightly. 

“I’m gonna kick your ass sounds more like what’s going to happen.” The captain replied. 

“Let’s get this party started, aviators.” He yelled out to the group. 

“Rooster, Fanboy, Fritz, Mute, Phoenix and Coyote on a team. Halo, Bob, Ramble, Hangman, Payback and myself on the other.” He said as everyone gathered around the footballs. Hondo blew a whistle and then they were off. 

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Mute was having a great time, she had gotten the hang of the game pretty quickly. The thoughts of what Hangman said earlier were cleared from her head as she was passed the ball by Fritz. She could see Ramble coming towards her from the corner of her eye. She sidestepped him quickly as he came up on her. The wind rushed across her face as she ran past her backseater.

She was on cloud nine as she weaved through the aviators until she was scoring with the ball. Her team cheered her name as they all came up on her. Rooster and Coyote picked her up as Phoenix gave Hangman a middle finger. Fanboy and Fritz were hollering at her patting her legs. She had a wide smile on her face when her eyes connected with Fanboys. He gave her a beaming smile, a look of pure happiness in his eyes. 

As she was set back down on her feet John came running over. He dramatically fell to his knees before bringing his head down to the ground. His arms were stretched out towards Mute hands grasping sand. He brought his head back up. The sand he gathered in his hands slipped through his fingers as he brought his outstretched arms towards the sky. Mute giggled at her best friend's antics realizing he was bowing for her. 

“All hail the powerful Jane.” He spoke out in an announcer's voice. Then like dominos all the aviators around her fell to their knees. Bowing dramatically at her feet. 

“All hail the powerful Jane.” They all spoke out through their laughter. The scene before her reminded her of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. The scene was so similar to when Bridget was playing soccer and her friends bowed for her. Then Mute was flashing back to before the game started. The words Hangman spoke flowing through her and her mood soured again. Even though Fanboy said they were all her friends she was now having a hard time believing it. 

They all slowly stood up but then John was tackling her down into the sand. They both laid there as John rolled off her. They were breathing heavily as they looked upon the clouded sky. Jane fixed her sunglasses that were knocked askew when John tackled her. The other aviators moved away from the duo as Mav called for lunch. 

John grabbed her hand and squeezed once a silent ‘Cammineremo’. He could tell something was wrong when she hesitated to squeeze back. Her silent ‘Saremo Potenti’ came as two weak squeezes back. He turned towards her and saw the solemn look on her face. He had seen that look before. She got that look when she felt as though she was alone again. That look lived on her face when they became friends all those years ago. 

“What happened?” John asked her quietly not wanting anyone else to hear their conversation. 

“Hangman made a comment about how much I was talking this morning.” She replied, turning her head to look at him. She thought about not telling him and trying to act as though she was fine. She wouldn’t have been able to though, he had always been able to read her. 

“Do you want me to go and say something?” He asked her, already moving, to get up. But he stopped as she shook her head. 

“It’s alright John, I’m okay.” She told him with a weak smile. “Let’s go and get something to eat. I'm starving since I cleaned the floor with you in that game.” 

“Okay hotshot let’s go and get you some food.” The wso said as he stood up pulling her along with him. He had decided to talk to Hangman anyways. 

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They had eaten lunch and played a few more games. They had all taken a swim afterwards to cool off. John and Jane took turns dunking each other under the water. The group played a few pool games. Categories, racing, who can hold their breath the longest and a few rounds of chicken. Now they were all sitting around a bonfire a couple yards away from the Hard Deck. They wanted to be far enough away to avoid the crowd. But also close enough to go and grab drinks if they wanted. There was a faint breeze that would occasionally wash over the group of navy personnel. 

Idle chatter flowed about the group. Mute sat listening to the group talk to each other. Ramble kept a hand on her leg occasionally stroking his thumb along her knee. Hangman stood up from his spot in the sand. He announced to the group that he was going to go grab some drinks from the bar and asked if anyone wanted anything. Everyone responded with a yes or a no. 

“I’ll go with you and help.” Ramble said as he stood up striding towards the blonde as he walked away. Mute didn’t think anything of it. But John had a plan forming as he and the aviator walked together. 

“Did you say something about Mute talking too much this morning?” John asked Jake bluntly, wanting to get straight to the point. Jake looked stunned for a second before responding. 

“What are you fucking talking about man?” He asked the taller man. 

“She went to the bathroom this morning and she was fine. She came back and she was acting a little upset. When I asked what was wrong before lunch she said you made a comment about her talking too much. So did you make a comment about it or not?” Jake stared at John for a second then went to defend himself before a look of regret popped up on his face. 

“Fuck, I said something this morning about how I had never heard her talk as much as she was this morning. She must not have heard the rest of what I said. I told them how great it was to see her coming out of her shell. I’m so sorry man, I really didn’t mean anything by it I swear.” Jake said with a slight pleading look on his face. John narrowed his eyes at him. 

“It’s not me you should be apologizing to. When we get back to the group I expect you to apologize to her.” Jake nodded his head bringing a hand up to his neck sheepishly.

“I really didn’t mean to offend your girlfriend. I’ll apologize when we get back.” John laughed at that. 

“She’s not my girlfriend.” He told the blonde.

“So you’re both single then?” Jake asked him. 

“Yes we are both single.” John said reluctantly, Jake wasn’t the one he wanted Jane with. Fanboy would be perfect for her if either of them got up the guts to actually talk to each other. The conversation was dropped at that.

Once they got back to the fire Jake asked Jane to go on a walk with him. She looked at John with a curious look and he just nodded his head. So she stood up and walked towards the blonde. He let her lead him down the beach. Then he apologized to her. Back at the fire, they were sitting around talking when Nat asked John about his tattoo. 

“Hey John, I noticed a tattoo on your chest earlier. What’s it say?” She asked him before taking a sip of her drink. 

“Saremo Potenti, it’s Italian for we shall be mighty.” He said as his hand came to lay on his shirt right above the tattoo. 

“Does it mean anything?” Rooster piped up.

“It’s something that Mute says to me. She has one that kind of matches mine in the same place right above her heart.” He said as he thought about their time at the tattoo shop. 

“What does hers say?” Asked Halo.

“Cammineremo, it’s Italian for we shall stride. That’s what I say to her, it’s normally before something that’s stressful or uncomfortable. It started while we were back at the academy.” He replied to the group. He looked up at the beach and spotted her walking with Jake. They seemed to be in the middle of a conversation. 

“How long have you two been dating?” Came Fritz with the question this time.

“We aren’t dating. She’s more like a little sister to me.” He laughed as he shook his head.

“Though I imagine if I wasn’t gay then I’d definitely go for her. She’s quite the catch once you get to know her.” Fanboy could feel relief wash over him at the realization. But then there was jealousy and disappointment. It was obvious now that Hangman was trying to worm his way into her pants. Hangman was a very attractive man, he had seen plenty of air bunnies fawning over him at their time in the bar. There’s no way he had a chance if Hangman was after her. 

“I’m gonna head out guys.” Fanboy said abruptly as he stood up. He gathered his chair and was making his way to his car not waiting for anyone to say anything. He would miss the disappointment in Mutes face when she got back to the fire and saw that he was gone.

A/N:I think this one had a bit more of fleshing out than the last chapters did. I also realize that this part literally took forever and that's my bad sorry guys. Please wear sunscreen and protect yourself against the evil sun!☀️

They all gathered in the lounge room. Omaha, Rooster and Payback all gathered around the foosball table. Halo and Coyote were sat on the couch. Fritz had gone to talk to someone about a problem with his helmet. Fanboy was up by the radio getting it turned on so they could listen to the members of the team up in the sky. Mute and Ramble made their way into the room. Setting down the tubs of cookies on the counter. 

The taller of the pair walked to the foosball table asking if they needed another player which they quickly agreed. Payback claiming him for his team immediately. Mute started to work around the room looking at all the stuff on the walls. 

Fanboy watched her slow walking hands clasped behind her back. He decided now would be the best time to go and talk to her. As he stood up he heard the first signs of the 3 planes in the sky through the radio which had the room getting quieter and the redhead walking her way over to the other side of the counter. She wanted to make sure she got all the information she needed so she wasn’t caught off guard when it was her and Rambles turn. 

They listened to the radio on either side of the counter. Some of the pilots had come up and grabbed a cookie or two of their choice. Complimenting the pair on how good they were. Which made Mute give them a curt nod and Ramble give them a dramatic thank you. Fritz had walked back in at some point. Hangman had been beaten when he had gotten cocky and accidentally gave Maverick the upper hand. Phoenix and Bob had gotten close until Mav pulled a stealth move on them. Then Maverick was ordering the pilots to the tarmac for their push ups. 

At the sound of Maverick ordering the push ups Ramble spoke up. “What push ups is he talking about?” Rooster snorted at that, pointing his thumb at Fanboy. “The first day here this one and his front seater made a bet with the old man that whoever lost would have to do 200 push ups. For some reason the bet is still ongoing. He might not make you guys do it though since you're new and don’t know the exercise like we do.” Mute had looked at Fanboy at that comment. He blushed and shrugged his shoulders feeling guilty. He had expected her to say something with the what the fuck look in her eyes but she remand silent. Then they heard Maverick calling up Fanboy, Payback and Fritz to the sky. 

Fanboy walked out of the room disappointed he hadn’t gotten the chance to talk to the front seater. Payback waited till they got to the locker room to comment on his sour mood. In which Fanboy shrugged him off not wanting to admit he already had feelings for the new front seater. 

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Back in the lounge the group was smaller. It was just Rooster and Ramble at the foosball table. Halo and Coyote had pulled out a deck of cards which brought Omaha in as he liked the game they decided on. Mute sat alone at the counter listening for the next group to go up. She had grabbed a chocolate chip cookie taking small bites eyes scanning over the group of aviators. She liked the group so far and thought they were friendly and warm. Her mind wandered to the wisso who had sat on the opposite side of the counter just 15 minutes earlier when she heard his voice come through the radio. 

She sat up straighter wanting to see how him and his front seater worked together. Ramble had been glancing at her at that moment. Noticing the way she seemed eager at the sound of the wissos voice. He made sure to catalog that away for the car ride home. He hadn’t seen her interested in anyone in years. She was always focused on work. He had been with a couple of people during the expanse of their friendship but she hadn’t been with anyone other than her ex boyfriend from the academy. Which had been a barely six month long relationship. She had been single and content since then.

He was happy to see her showing interest in someone. He just hoped that it wasn’t one sided. He knew she wouldn’t take the rejection well. His thoughts were cut off at the sound of Maverick locking onto the double seater jet. Then the single seater quickly after. The three of them grumbling over the fact they would have to do push ups. 

Then Maverick was calling up Coyote, Omaha and Halo. As he finished his order Hangman, Phoenix and Bob all walked into the room passing the other three. Hangman took a seat on the empty couch grabbing the remote to turn the tv on. Phoenix joined Rooster and Ramble, deciding to watch the boys play. While Bob made his way to the counter in Fanboys previous spot grabbing a couple cookies for himself giving Mute a quick nod and smile which she returned. 

Mute wandered to the window looking down at the hot tarmac where she saw Fritz, Payback and Fanboy all doing their push ups. Even from up here she could see the muscles in Fanboys arms and back working to push him up and bring him back down. She knew she was already in deep with the way her knees grew a little weak at the sight. She hadn’t even realized the other team had started until she heard Omaha letting out a “damn it” followed by Coyote getting targeted as well. She turned to Ramble who was already looking at her knowing it was going to be their turn now. 

They were both nervous as their names were called along with Rooster. They had heard great things about Rooster and how he was a good team player. That made the pair feel a bit more at ease, knowing they had a wingman that would have their back. Phoenix was wishing them good luck on their way out. 

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Down on the tarmac Mute, Ramble and Rooster were making their ways to their jets. They had quickly discussed a few maneuvers and tricks to watch out for with Maverick. They passed by Fritz, Payback and Fanboy who had completed their push ups. Fanboy made eye contact with Mute both of them quickly looking away. 

After doing a preflight check the duo fist bumped quickly uttering the words “Cammineremo” and “Saremo Potenti” to each other. Then they were climbing into their respective seats. The canopy closing over them. They checked in with the tower and then Rooster. Then both of them were taking off to the sky to find Maverick. 

It didn’t take long for Maverick to pipe up “I know that we have two newbies with us today but I just wanted to let you know I’m not going to take it easy on you and that the push up bet stands with you both as well. We’re also going to mix it up today and Mute and Ramble will be lead this run.”

“I wouldn’t expect anything less from the infamous Pete Mitchell. Let’s see what we can do.” Mute spoke up, becoming only the third time the group heard her talk. Maverick and Rooster were surprised with her joking tone. Maverick let out a hearty laugh with a “Let’s see it then.”

“If you manage to get a lock on Maverick I’ll buy you guys drinks all night at The Hard Deck tonight.” Rooster rumbled a smile in his voice. 

“What the hell is The Hard Deck?” Ramble asked him. 

“It’s the local bar we all frequent. Maverick knows the owner pretty well.” Maverick chimed in at that “Rooster the owner is my Fiancé of course I know her. Now let’s turn and burn.” He said as he whipped by them. Mute remained stoic, having expected a silly move like this from the older man. Ramble and Rooster turned serious. They knew they would have to be on their A-Game to beat Mav. They played a little cat and mouse. Maverick would slow down with the pilots about to catch him and then speed up turning and going a different direction. 

“He’s just ahead of us going 450 knots Mute if you speed up 150 knots you’ll get right on his rear. Rooster, if you break left we'll break right.” Ramble spoke clearly. Mute confirmed and sped up Rooster doing the same. Then they were on his rear. Maverick sped up again flying higher and inverting his plane. 

“Speeding up and pursuing. Request Rooster to follow.” Mute said, matching Mavericks speed and getting below him. 

“Right behind you Mute.” Rooster replied, matching her speed quickly. Then it was Rooster above Maverick and Mute and Ramble below him. Maverick was about to slow down and level out until Ramble spoke to Mute “Mute slow down, Rooster stay steady.” Before Rooster or Maverick could react Mute suddenly slowed down. Getting behind Maverick she got a lock on him.

“That’s a kill. Let’s turn around boys, I’ve got some cookies calling my name.” Mute spoke with a calm voice.

“That’s my girl.” Ramble reached one arm forward to lightly tap the side of the front seater's helmet.

“That was a good move, kid.” Maverick said as he and Rooster leveled their planes out. 

“That was some good work and leading both of you!” Rooster said slowing his plane down to be back by the 2 seater giving them a thumbs up. Which only had Mute shaking her head. “Now the old man’s got to do push ups! That hasn’t happened in weeks!” Excitement was clear in his voice. 

“Once we get back to the tarmac you guys go get cleaned up and then head to the lounge room. I’ll go find Hondo about my push ups.” He said with a slight shake of his head and a full smile. “That was some good work Mute and Ramble. I'm impressed.” Maverick finished with admiration in his voice. 

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Back in the lounge the room had gone quiet, everyone wanting to hear how the new pilot and her back seater would do. None of them were surprised when Maverick switched them to lead. Fanboy was sitting next to the radio with Bob. The both of them high fiving at the sound of the tone on Maverick. Phoenix and Omaha shared a fist bump. While Payback, Halo and Coyote all shared impressed looks. Fritz and Hangman on the other hand were sitting looking at each other with dumbfounded faces. 

“There is no way they just beat Maverick on their first day here. Let alone their first dogfight here. The old timer has to be losing his game.” Hangman quipped out to the group. That got eye rolls, grunts and shut the fuck up in return. 

“Bagman you know there is no way he’s losing his game with the way he kicked all our asses today. You also know he didn’t take it easy on them either. That’s not his style. Why don’t you just get your head out of your ass and realize they might just be that fucking good. Even better than you.” Fanboy quickly defended the pilot and the wso. Which came as a surprise to the group. They were used to his occasional quip or comment but hadn’t seen him get worked up like this before. Payback knew for certain though that his backseater had a crush on the new pilot. 

“What the hell is your problem man?” Hangman asked Fanboy a sly smirk on his face, realizing he found something that could get under the wissos skin. 

“You’re my fucking problem dude. I’m sick of you always making comments about other people when they do something even remotely better than you. Grow the fuck up man.” Fanboy replied to him fists clenching.

Hangman started to talk again before Phoenix piped up. “Hangman just shut up for once and realize you’re wrong. None of us want to sit here and listen to you have a tantrum.” Then the group grew silent. Deciding to wait for the trio to find their way back to the lounge. Quite chattering slowly building up between some of them as minutes passed.

Fanboy started thinking about Mutes voice, how calm and steady it was, the way she joked with them in the sky. He hoped he would be able to talk to her tonight when the group of them went to The Hard Deck. Then his thoughts ventured to Ramble. The two had seemed pretty close. He started to wonder if they were in fact dating or if they were just really close friends. He would try to figure that out tonight. His mind started wandering again when voices from the hallway became closer to the room. He listened for the sound of Mutes voice but came up empty. He thought that maybe she hadn’t even been with the 2 men. Until they entered the room all of them clad in their Khakis. Mute was stood behind the tall dark haired men. 

She somehow seemed even quieter than she was before going up. But she had a smile on her face which made him hopeful. But as she moved further into the room she stuck close to Ramble. So he worried again, he was sure the two of them had to be together the way she was attached to him. He was broken out of his thoughts again with the cheers of the Squad. They were congratulating the duo. A couple offering to buy them a round another night Rooster wasn’t already paying. 

Ramble was giving out thank yous and hell yes’ and high fives. While Mute stood behind him giving the occasional high five, nod or smile. Fanboy kept his eyes on her and as she looked up she looked right at him. It was so similar to the Tarmac this morning. Except this time it was Mute feeling sick. How was she supposed to coast by in this group if she was already getting feelings for one of them? But how could she help it, he was so attractive and seemed to be pretty laid back. Her thoughts of the wisso were cut off by Ramble smacking her arm. 

“Earth to Mute. Mav texted Rooster and told him we can go ahead and go to The Hard Deck. Are you ready to go?” He asked her with a knowing smile on his face. Her only reply was a quick nod. Then they were all heading out of base. Ramble and Rooster promising to talk about their shared love of Broncos at the bar and which one was better.

Translations: (Italian done by google translate so don’t come for me if they are wrong)

Cammineremo- We shall stride

Saremo Potenti- We shall be mighty

A/N: I realize that this is probably a lot more slow burn than you guys were expecting. But I promise if you just wait it out for the next part well see some heat!

They all arrived at The Hard Deck around the same time. The car ride over for Mute and Ramble consisted of going back and forth with what to do about Fanboy. Ramble wanted her to go for him. Mute wanted to stay far away from him. She didn’t want to get into another messy relationship, especially not with someone she worked with. She had done a great job of it up until this point. 

As they pulled into the parking lot she made Ramble promise to stay out of it to which he said no way in hell then he bolted out of the car. He was going to make sure they ended up talking by the end of the night no matter what. She slowly made her way out of the car taking a few deep breaths. 

It wasn’t that she hated people necessarily, it was just that she hated places that were overly crowded. Bars were one place she knew were always overly crowded. So as she made her way in it was no surprise that even for a Monday night it was busy. A sea of navy folk and other local regulars.

She searched for her best friend in the crowd and saw him at the pool table in the back. She started weaving through the crowd to get to him. As she got closer she saw most of the squad hanging around the table. Hangman and Coyote were at the dartboard. A few at the bar ordering drinks. 

“I already told Rooster what we want for our first round. Now come over here and play a game of pool with us.” Ramble told her as she got close enough, handing her a pool stick. She took it while Phoenix racked the balls. Then the game started Mute and Fritz vs Phoenix and Ramble. The game went quickly, the squad talking, Rooster bringing them more drinks. The Game came to an end with Phoenix and Ramble winning. Maverick had arrived at that point. 

After that game Ramble mingled and Mute listened. She listened to Payback and Fanboy talk about a funko pop they were both struggling to find. She listened to Omaha talk about how his wife was pregnant and morning sickness had been hitting her hard and how she was craving the weirdest things. She listened to Coyote talk to Hangman about how he was really missing home. She listened to Halo talk about her anniversary with her fiancé coming up and that they were having a hard time agreeing on what to do for it. She listened when Rooster mentioned how he kept losing sunglasses. 

As she listened she and Fanboy had continued to catch each other's eyes. Everytime they were caught looking at the other, a blush would rush on their face and they would turn their heads away. So when Mute had slipped out the back Fanboy had noticed. He saw Rooster come up to the group and look around for her. “Hey, has anyone seen Mute? I got another drink for her.” He asked everyone as he came up empty looking for the red haired pilot. 

“I saw her slip out back. Fanboy, why don’t you take her the drink?” Ramble spoke looking at the other wisso. Fanboy sat with wide eyes staring at Ramble before Payback was smacking him on the back. 

“Go on Mickey, give the girl her drink, you don’t want her to die of dehydration do you?” Payback said a smile just as wide as Rambles adorning his face. Fanboy shook his head before getting up and getting the beer. He wondered briefly why Ramble would encourage him to give his girlfriend a drink but let the thought slip his mind. He walked to the back door. As his hand met the knob he gulped and told himself the worse she could do was tell him to leave. Then he was opening the door and slipping into the sea soaked air. 

He spotted her sitting in the sand. Her boots sat next to her and her hair down around her face. Once he reached her side she turned her head to look at him. A soft smile adorning her features. A look of surprise in her eyes. He held out her drink and she took it from his hand. “Do you mind if I sit with you?” He asked her quietly, not wanting to disturb the silence. She simply patted the spot next to her staring back at the ocean. 

He slowly sat down making sure not to spill his beer in the process. They sat in silence, both of them staring at the ocean. Mute occasionally picking at her nails. He realized that he was comfortable just sitting here with her. Deciding that he wouldn’t try to talk to her first. He would be patient and let her come to him when she was ready.  

They sat there for a while longer before they heard the door to the bar open and close. They both turned their heads to see who it was when they spotted Ramble leaning against the building. “Hey hot stuff let’s go I’m ready for bed.” He yelled out to them which had Mute standing up. She grabbed her boots and looked down at Fanboy before uttering an almost silent “thank you” to him. He gave her a smile and told her “good night” in reply. He came to the conclusion that he was okay being just friends with her. 

As Mute and Ramble got to the car he tossed her the keys for her to drive home since she wasn’t really drinking tonight. Mute was relieved that Ramble didn’t ask about Fanboy. Instead he talked about his excitement for the rest of the week. 

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Tuesday consisted of some in class training. Then Mute and Ramble were heading to the grocery store after work. The red head gathered everything she needed to make gumbo and cornbread. 

Then she looked for stuff that would help ease pregnancy symptoms. She found Kit Kats, dill pickles, hot sauce, peanut butter, sour gummy worms and green apple Gatorade for Omaha's wife. Grabbing more hair gel for Phoenix as well. 

Fanboy and Mute had eaten lunch together in silence that day.

On Wednesday she took the gumbo and cornbread into work in 10 containers and 10 reusable ziploc bags. Giving Coyote the biggest container of it. She had made a vegetarian version for Fritz. As she handed the containers to Coyote he gave her a weird look before looking into the Tupperware and seeing the gumbo. 

When he looked back up at her he had tears in his eyes. Thanking her repeatedly for the food. That had not only earned his friendship but Hangman’s as well. Because if someone did something that nice for his best friend then he had to be nice to them. She had also given the hair gel to Phoenix which she was instantly thankful for because she was almost out. 

As they got off work that night they headed to Target where Mute and Ramble both loaded up with aviators and baby clothes. Before going home and putting together the tv stand that had arrived while they were at work. Then they had called Ramble's parents which at this point were basically Mutes as well. She hadn’t talked to her parents since she joined the academy. 

Mute and Fanboy had exchanged hellos and smiles at lunch that afternoon. 

Thursday she and Ramble were handing over all the stuff they had gotten for Omaha and his wife. To which he became speechless. Not knowing what to say to the duo he ended up giving them both big hugs and invited them over to meet his wife when she was feeling up to it. They had both agreed that they would love that. When she handed the bag of aviators and an old librarian type glasses chain over to Rooster he let out a loud laugh. Then slipped the chain onto his sunglasses. 

As they left work that night they stopped at the post office and grabbed a package from Ramble's parents that they had expressed shipped. Once they got home they moved the couch inside that had been delivered. Then went back and forth on what they wanted to do with the empty basement. Ramble wanted to make it an at home gym to which Mute refused. They continued to bounce ideas off each other until agreeing on a home theater.

Mute had asked Fanboy how his day was at lunch that day. Then she replied when he asked her about her day.

Friday they had gone to the coffee shop they learned most of the squad liked and picked up drinks and breakfast for everyone. They had gone around handing them out. Giving Bob the non-alcoholic wine that Ramble's parents had sent them. Then giving Halo a couple bottles of wine a pamphlet of the vineyard and a free 2 nights stay for her and her fiancé. She thanked the both of them and told them it was perfect. Asking if they wanted her to pay them back. To which they both refused telling them they were close to the owners and got it all for free. 

As Friday came to a close at work Maverick invited them all to The Hard Deck Saturday afternoon for a game of dogfight football and lunch. The duo had been confused on what dogfight football was to which Phoenix explained. Then they agreed to be there. Promising to see everyone at the bar that night for drinks. 

Mute had asked Fanboy if he would be at The Hard Deck that night and the next day to which he told her yes. She had smiled and told him she was looking forward to seeing him there. 

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The duo had stopped at the post office again on the way to The Hard Deck. Mute had asked Ramble if her hair looked okay when they arrived at the parking lot. To which he nodded and told her always with a wink. Mute looked around the parking lot seeing all the cars as they walked inside. She had thought the bar was packed on Monday but that didn’t even compare to how packed it was that night.  

Monday had been easy enough for her. The anxiety of the crowd was minimal and when it got a little much she moved outside. Tonight she didn’t know if she’d be able to handle it. Ramble saw the way her shoulders tensed, her head dropping towards her chest, arms crossing across her middle. He moved to her side, wrapping his arm around her shoulders. 

“Do you want to leave? I don’t think anyone has seen us so we could just text them and tell them we weren’t feeling up to it and head home?” He asked her worry seeping into his voice. He had wanted to hang out with the squad but Mute would always come first for him. She shook her head “ No I want to try. Can we stay at least for a little bit?” she turned looking up at her back seater. 

He gave her a wide grin. “For you babe anything. You let me know when you’re ready to leave and we can head out I promise.” He told her then leaned in and whispered to her “Cammineremo.” as he squeezed her shoulder pulling her into him. 

“Saremo Potenti.” She whispered, pushing further into him as they started to weave through the crowd to the pool table. As they neared the tables Ramble handed her the package he had been holding. She opened it grabbing the 2 boxes and made her way to Payback and Fanboy. 

“Hey Mute! How ya doing?” Payback asked her. She nodded her head before setting the boxes down in front of the correct owners. They both looked down, eyes getting wide before quickly going back up to the front seater. 

“How the fuck did you score these? We’ve been looking for these for months.” Fanboy questioned her. 

“I know a guy.” She told him shrugging her shoulders nonchalance seeping out of her. Payback didn’t miss how she had answered his backseaters question but not his. He was happy she was opening up to him.

“How much do we owe you? These had to be so fucking expensive.” Fanboy said picking up the box and examining it. 

“How about you do any push ups I have to do for a month each and we’ll call it even?” Mute joked with him. 

“Are you sure? That definitely doesn’t seem fair to you.” He asked her. 

“I really fucking hate push up’s.” She told him with a smile on her face. 

“Okay you got it. We’ll do it. Right Rueben?” Fanboy asked, turning to his front seater. To which he nodded. Then Fanboy reached his hand out to shake Mutes in an old style deal kind of way. She grasped his hand and gave it a firm shake before pulling away and slipping back to Ramble's side as the bar had somehow grown louder. He pulled her into his side again, rubbing circles with his thumb against the sleeve of her uniform. Then the disappointment came crawling into Fanboy. He and her could only be friends and he was going to have to deal with it. 

The night had been going smoothly. But more people had been piling in and John needed to go to the bathroom. He knew he couldn’t leave Jane alone so he looked around the room and spotted Fanboy still sitting at the same table as when they first arrived.

“I’m going to go to the bathroom really quick. Are you okay standing here for a couple minutes?” John asked his best friend to which she nodded. So he was off weaving through the group of people to Fanboy. 

“I’m running to the bathroom. Can you keep an eye on Mute for me? She just gets a little nervous with big crowds.” He asked the smaller dark haired man. Mickey nodded his head and told him he had it. So that’s how he found himself sitting and watching the red haired pilot. Trying not to seem creepy but not wanting to let her out of his sight. She had been fine for a few minutes. Until the song changed to a louder one, someone bumped into her spilling their drink down her side and causing her to slightly fall backwards. The final straw was when the person mumbled something to her. 

He could see the sudden anxiety over taking her features all at once. He was up and out of his chair before he even knew what he was doing. Once he reached her through the crowd he could see the panic in her eyes as she searched the room. Her chest started to rapidly go up and down. Her palms were clammy. She suddenly became nauseous and light headed. Then her eyes met his and tears started to form.

“Can I touch you?” She could barely hear through the sea of noises around her. Had she not been looking at him and seeing his lips moving she probably would’ve missed the words. She shakily nodded, not trusting her voice at all. Then his hand was gently grabbing her wrist and he was pushing through the people to the back door. Using his body to shield hers against the ever moving waves of bodies. They passed Payback who was right by the door and Fanboy told him to send Ramble out as soon as he saw him. He didn’t wait for a response as he opened the door. 

They finally got out of the bar into the humid night air. He let go of her wrist as she stumbled to the ground of the patio. He hadn’t even had time to catch her as one of her knees hit the ground and she knocked over a chair. Then she was leaning back and moving towards the wall using her hands and feet to push her. Once her back hit the wall she suddenly gasped and brought her hands to the top button of her shirt. 

“Jane. Hey Jane, can you hear me?” Mickey was asking getting on his knees a couple feet in front of her. But her eyes were glazed over and she didn’t seem to be able to understand anything. He was about to ask again when the door swung open almost hitting him. He opened his mouth to tell whoever it was to fuck off before he saw the tall wisso with a panicked look in his eyes. 

But he seemed to calm down once his eyes landed on his best friend. “What happened to her?” John quickly asked. 

“A new song came on that was pretty loud, then someone ran into her spilling their drink on her and made her fall back some. They said something to her as well but I didn’t hear what they said.” Mickey got out in one breath, hands starting to slightly shake. 

“Thanks for bringing her out here. Can you go and get me a wet towel and some water?” John asked him calmer than the previous question. Mickey nodded before standing up and going back inside. 

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John got down on his knees in front of Jane. He grabbed her hands that were shakily trying to unbutton her top. Her hands stilled and she looked up to him. She looked so small and shattered. Her face wet with tears and her lip quivering.

“I got you okay? I’ll get this off you. Just sit here and take some deep breaths for me. In for 7 seconds out for 7 seconds 7 times can you do that for me?” He told her and her hands dropped from her shirt. He got it unbuttoned and pulled it out of where it was tucked into the matching khaki pants. Then she was leaning forward so he could pull it off completely. She sat there in her white undershirt and khaki pants taking deep breaths in and out. 

After her shirt was off he worked on her boots as he knew that she sometimes hated the way they felt on her feet. Then he pulled her hair out of its bun so she could run her fingers through it. Once he was done he moved backwards so he sat on his ass legs criss crossed in front of him. 

She finally looked up at him making eye contact. “John?” She asked him, voice cracking, small and quiet as she registered who was in front of her. He nodded his head, tucking some hair behind her ear. He was about to ask what happened when the door opened and Fanboy stepped out. He handed John the towel and water. Standing there in case they needed anything else.

John then handed her the water telling her to drink it before trying to wipe off some of the stickiness the drink had left on her arm and side. He knew how the feeling of it on her skin bothered her. She took the last sip of the water and John took the cup from her. Then he handed it to Mickey. “The guy called me a stupid bitch John.” Jane spoke to him, bringing her hand up to her hair. He paused what he was doing with the towel pulling back. 

He turned to the wisso standing next to them “What did the guy look like?” He asked him. 

“Blonde hair, green shirt, tattoo on his forearm about my height.” Mickey told him quickly. John stood up walking back inside telling Mickey to stay with Jane and that he would be right back. 

“My parents used to call me that. They would get mad at me and tell me how useless I was. How I was just a stupid bitch that no one would ever love. There were groups of kids in highschool that called me that. Telling me I was a stupid stuck up bitch that talked too much. My ex boyfriend used that in his break up text to me. He told me no one would love a stupid ugly bitch like me.” She said to him as tears started running down her face. She took a deep breath in and blew it out trying to calm herself down. He sat beside her much like the first night on the beach. But this time he spoke to her. 

“I’m sorry that they said that about you. People like that are ugly inside and out. They have no clue when something special is right in front of them. This week has been one of the best weeks for the whole squad. I love that I’ve gained a friend like you.” He told her pausing as they heard the bell ring inside.

“It took a long time for the group of us to become so close. But you have come in and made friends with everyone in a week. Hell you’re even friends with Hangman and he only barely tolerates the rest of us. We love having you here Jane. You can ask anyone in there and they will all agree with me that you are none of those things people called you.” He finished and turned to face her, he saw the smile on her face, the look of appreciation in her eyes. He was happy that he was the cause of her happiness. As he finished they heard someone yelling out front, words that they couldn’t make out. 

“Thank you Mickey.” She told him as John came back outside. He saw the pair and he smiled. 

“Are you ready to head out? I got everything taken care of in there.” pointing his thumb behind him towards the door. She nodded her head at him. He gave her a hand helping her up. 

“Will you still be coming tomorrow?” Mickey asked her, hopeful he would see her. She turned back, giving him a smile. 

“If you’re going to be there, I’ll be there.” She said simply before her and John were making their way around the building. With that Mickey felt warmth fill him up. He was happy that she had opened up to him that night and that she was excited to see him the next day.

A/N: Hi y'all I hope everyone liked this piece! If you did please let me know! Part 5 should be uploaded either Monday or Tuesday! Tags are open for this series! I also hope this was a bit more heat than slow burn for everyone!

Jane ‘Mute’ Hall and John ‘Ramble’ De Luca otherwise known as ‘The Does’. They had known each other since the academy. Becoming a quick team on land and even quickier becoming a team in the skies. The two had been paired together since they graduated from the academy. They had gone through Top Gun together graduating at the top of their class. The pair had been on quite a handful of successful missions since then.

The two of them had been called in to their superiors office back in Virginia two weeks ago. They had been told that they would be moving out to Fightertown, California to join The Dagger Squad permanently.

John had been talking Jane's ear off about how excited he was to be in the infamous Dagger Squad. There had been whispers and rumors of the uranium mission they had gone on. Most of the details were classified so no one truly knew what happened. Everyone just knew that they were the best of the best and it had been proven on that mission.

Jane had been nervous knowing the squad had been together for a few months. They were all older than the duo, they had all made a name for themselves amongst the Navy. Jane wasn’t sure how her and her back seater John would fit in.

John hadn’t been nervous at all; he had known the two were meant to be there. Had known there was no way they would’ve been sent there if they weren’t also the best of the best. He had tried to talk some sense into Jane but knew the attempts were futile. She had been the most stubborn person he had ever met.

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The move had been easy. They had already lived together in a small apartment in Virginia with a month to month lease. It had been a breeze to find a home in California near base. It had 3 floors. 3 bedrooms with bathrooms attached to all on the top floor. A half bath, living room, kitchen and dining room were all on the main floor. The bottom floor was a finished basement with a bar, half bath and big open space. They sold what they couldn’t fit in the tiny U-Haul trailer and John’s newer Ford Bronco.

It took them a day and a half to make it cross country. Leaving Friday night after work. Continued swapping of drivers made it a quick trip. Only stopping for bathroom breaks, occasional meals and gas. They had gotten to Fightertown early Sunday.

They made a trip to the grocery store and IKEA after unpacking everything from the trailer and the bronco. They got 2 bed frames, 2 bed side tables, a coffee table and a small kitchen table with 4 chairs. They ordered a couch, tv and tv stand for the living room that was estimated to be in within the next week. They were still debating on what to get for the basement and decided they would figure it out over the next couple of weeks or months.

It was easy for them to get everything put together and unpacked as they worked well together in the skies and on land. Jane had made quick work of getting the bedroom furniture together. John had worked on the coffee table, kitchen table and chairs. They worked together to get the mattresses on the bed frames and then decided to eat dinner and make some cookies for the squad they were meeting the next day. Together they made chocolate chip, snickerdoodles, oatmeal raisin and peanut butter. They had hoped everyone would at least have something that they would like if they made so many.

After cleaning up the mess which involved John flinging flour all over Jane and her doing the same to him until they were both on the floor a giggling mess. Once they actually cleaned up and showered they made their way to their rooms. Jane shouted out a good night to John and he did the same.

John had laid in bed for a while staring up at the ceiling thinking about the early morning they had tomorrow. He thought about his best friend in the room across the hall from him.

He knew she was struggling with the idea of them being in the best aviator team the navy had. She didn’t think that they deserved the spot and was worried about fitting in. He hoped and begged whatever force out there that they would find a home here. Jane needed a family beyond him. His thoughts slowly drifted until he fell asleep.

Jane tossed and turned in bed that night. The nerves finally took over her body in a tight uncomfortable hug. She knew that they would be meeting the team tomorrow and she wasn’t sure she was prepared. She hoped and begged that they would settle in nicely. Knowing John would be there every step of the way eased enough tension she finally felt she could breathe and she slowly fell into a soft slumber.

A/N:This chapter is super super short. But I’m to excited for this series to hold back any longer. This isn’t much but I wanted everyone to get to know Jane and John a little bit before starting the series. If anyone would like tagged in this series please feel free to let me know!

~It was the first pride that was happening after they became friends.

~John had come out to Jane.

~Jane had been extremely accepting.

~John offhandedly mentioned pride to her and she made it her mission for them to go together.

~She went out and bought them matching shirts. Hers said I love my gay best friend. His said I’m the gay best friend. 

~She got face paint for them and hair paint. 

~Literally got anything she could find or think of.

~John was ecstatic when she showed him everything. 

~They marched in the parade for the Navy proudly with a few other navy personnel.

~They go to every booth there and get stickers and flags and literally run out of room in both of their backpacks because they’ve got so much stuff.

~They both have the absolute fucking time of their lives. 

~At some point they end up a little tipsy and get matching tattoos together of a little rainbow on their ankles. 

~It was such a great bonding experience for both of them so now they try and go to at least one pride event in June if they are home.

A/N: This was super short but I think it’s pretty sweet and I loved writing this.