#b.bradshaw

He doesn’t snore, but he’s a pretty restless sleeper/moves and twitches a lot.

He typically falls asleep holding you but because he moves so much during the night you have to escape his grip if you want decent sleep lol.

Eventually, he settles for holding your hand or letting you be the big spoon so he doesn’t disturb your sleep too much.

He struggles with insomnia and often spends more time staring at the ceiling than he does actually sleeping.

On nights he can’t sleep, he’s developed a habit of watching you sleep instead. He tries his best not to stare, but he just can’t tear his eyes away. There’s something about seeing you so peaceful and safe in his bed/arms that he’s grown obsessed with.

It doesn’t solve his insomnia, but it brings him a deep sense of calm and belonging that he hasn’t felt since before his mom passed.

He frequently has nightmares, but he tries his best to not wake you. Instead, he sneaks off to the bathroom (or downstairs if it was a particularly bad one) and stays there until he calms down.

His nightmares were at their worst right before, and in the months following, the uranium mission. It got so bad that he often stayed awake throughout the night in hopes of keeping them at bay.

On a happier note, Rooster is huge into physical touch overall, but when you first get in bed/before you fall asleep he's super cuddly.

Pillow talk is an absolute must every night.

Sleeping next to Bradley most nights is like a sleepover.

Often has you massage/scratch his back while he rants about his day (and vice versa).

Whether you’re watching a movie or turning in for the night, he will use any part of your body as a pillow and fully expects you to do the same to him.

If it's late enough at night (or if he’s a little tipsy) he’ll pull you tight against his chest and recall his favorite memories from childhood/with his mom.

He encourages you to open up to him as well, and is always there to cherish those memories with you (or comfort you if necessary).

These moments usually end with you wiping a few stray tears from the corners of his eyes.

For the most part, bedtime is when Bradley allows himself to let loose and relax. Once you’re a permanent fixture in his life, he sees you as a safe space and often seeks comfort in your arms.

She made her way down the stairs and to the kitchen turning as few lights on as possible. She placed a bowl on the counter and made her way to the pantry in search of her favorite cereal. Between her pounding headache and killer cramps, the thought of eating anything at all was nauseating. She placed the box on the counter and poured a generous helping into the bowl. Once the milk was in the bowl, she padded over to the silverware drawer in search of her custom cereal spoon. Spotting it, she  Right as she turned back to her bowl, a searing cramp knocked the wind right out of her chest. doubled over, her grip on the spoon released, sending it clattering across the tile floor. 

Letting out a small wail, she dropped to the floor, bringing her knees up into the fetal position. 

Seconds later, A voice came from the doorway. 

"Are you ok, Honey?". 

Not moving a muscle, She choked out a reply between sobs. "N-No. Well, yes, b-but no.."   Making his way across the kitchen he sunk to the floor, bringing her into his arms. She melted into his touch as all the stress and negative emotions came pouring out. Rooster glanced between the spoon and his distraught spouse, finally piecing together what happened.

Letting out a shaky breath she pulled her face back slightly. "I just wanted a bowl of cereal but I dropped my favorite spoon and oh god now y-you're shirts w-wet-" She started before bursting into tears again.

"Everything is fine honey, don't worry." Rooster cooed, his warm hands needing small circles at the base of her spine Seconds later she continued, her voice now muffled by his firm chest "b-but now my spoon is dirty and my cereal is getting soggy and I'm hungry and everything hurts and I just want to s-sleep but I c-can't..." Squeezing her even closer, Rooster contemplated for a second.

"How about this, Sugar. We'll get you back upstairs and situated in bed. I'll come back down, wash your spoon, and bring you some Tylenol and a fresh bowl of cereal. Alright?" 

"A-alright..."

"Good. Now, can you put your arm around my neck for me? Atta girl." he praised while gently lifting her off the floor.

He made his way to the stairs, ascending in silence before pushing the bedroom door open. He placed her gently on the bed and leaned down to place a soft kiss on her lips.

"I sense a heating pad and a Disney movie calling your name."  He smiled, brushing a few stray hairs out of her face.

Rooster sat at the piano, playing along with the song coming from the jukebox while she dried glasses behind the counter. The Hard Deck didn't open for another 3 hours, but Penny had tasked her with prep and opening, saying it was "time for her to take on more responsibility around here". Stacking the glasses behind the bar, a smile broke out on her face as Bradley got fully into his rendition of Rhiannon by Fleetwood Mac.

Swaying her hips, she shook her head and laughed before joining Rooster in belting out the lyrics. Forgetting her tasks she made her way over to her pilot, tossing an arm around his shoulder she dropping into his lap. Not missing a beat, he placed a kiss to her cheek before raising his voice just above the music.

"Sing us home, Darlin'!"

The bar was in full swing. She and Penny were passing out drinks like they did most nights. Every so often she'd drop by the pool table Phoenix, Hangman, and the others were occupying, supplying them with fresh drinks and ignoring the flirty glances from Rooster.

Lingering at the table longer than usual, she chatted casually with the crewmen. As Rooster lined up his shot a comfortable silence fell amongst the table. Hangman, ever the opportunist, saw his opening to conduct a full examination on the bartender his rival was clearly eyeing.

She happily answered his questions, happy to talk about something other than what was happening at base. Slowly his questions got more and more personal. It wasn't until the question about her family came up that she hesitated. Her eyes flashed to Rooster who only shrugged. "It's a pretty boring story really. I tried to follow in my brother's footsteps and join the navy right out of high school, ended up flunking out of basic, so I followed bob out east, and now I'm here." She winced right as the answer passed her lips. Hopefully, no one noticed her little slip-up.

To outside eyes, she was nothing more than the stunning bartender Rooster was head over heels for. By some twist of the genetic lottery, she and bob didn't particularly favor each other in looks or personality. She was the confident, boisterous antithesis of bob's shy, sweet demeanor. The only thing the two shared was a last name and a nearly identical eyeglass prescription, though she opted for contacts over frames.  It just so happened that while rushing out of Roosters place this morning, she threw on her glasses saying she'd put her contacts in the bathroom at work. 6 hours and an unusually busy morning later, she still had on the thick plastic frames that brought out her family resemblance.

Jake, being a little too observant, leaned over, and looked intently at her features. He honestly was shocked he'd never noticed before. The jaw with a bit of softness, the crystal blue hue held within almond-shaped eyes, the blonde highlights scattered through her otherwise brunette hair.  Her face warmed up under Jake's gaze. Diverting her eyes over to Rooster she noted his wide-eyed expression letting on that he caught it too. Looks like the cat is out of the bag.

Jake pulled back, slamming his beer down on the table before doubling over in laughter. Several awkward moments later, Hangman stood up straight and wiped a dramatic tear from his eye. "You have GOT to be shitting me!" He exclaimed as everyone turned to him in confusion. regaining his composure, he picked his beer back up before addressing the small crowd. "If you guys didn’t know, our boy Rooster is shacking up with this beautiful lady" he declared, winking at her while taking a sip from his bottle "It just so happens that she’s also Bobby boy's sister!" He continued. Snickers were muffled and eyes were diverted as Bradley's expression turned unreadable.

Just then, someone cleared their throat uncomfortably. Turning, she noticed her brother standing very uncomfortably in the corner holding a pool cue.

She opened her mouth to speak but words failed her. Roosters head dropped between his shoulders while Hangman yelled something about a family reunion.

Quiet as ever Bob pushed his glasses up onto the bridge of his nose and padded over towards Rooster. The crowd parted, waiting with bated breath for Bob's reaction. As he approached Bradley stood up straight and met his gaze. Peering over his silver-framed lenses, he leaned closer to Rooster. "Whatever you do, just don't break her heart. Ok?" He said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'd never dream of it." He replied, not breaking eye contact. Bob patted his shoulder gently as he turned to his sister with sad eyes. "I just wish you would have told me..." he mumbled as quiet conversation broke out amongst the group.  She opened her mouth to speak but bob just shook his head before disappearing into the crowd.

Snapping out of your thoughts, you see Maverick working on a plane like always. Sensing your eyes on him, he looks up and smiles before waving you over. 

No backing out now.

"Hey y/n. Bradley's off running through a few exercises but you're more than welcome to wait here for him." He offers before getting back to work.

"Thanks Mav, but I actually came to talk with you.". This stops him in his tracks. He turns to you and nods, signaling you to keep talking. You didn't mean for your voice to sound so serious, but your nerves are really kicking in now. 

taking the cue, you take a deep breath before continuing. "I think I want to propose..." well, the words are out there. "Actually, I don't think, I know. I really just wanted to ask your permission first because you're his family and it just seemed right and-" Glancing up to meet his eyes, you stop rambling. "What's with the look Cap?". his face drops and he freezes "What Look?". "you're looking at me like you've seen a ghost... " you counter. "I was just um, thinking about something Cyclone said to me earlier..." "oh. Well, do I have your blessing?" "Of course..." he said, not meeting your gaze. Why is he shifting so much? "So," he continued "Do you know when you're going to ask him?" "well, I was actually on my way to pick up the ring, but I don't really have a plan. I think ill just wait until it feels right, you know?" "Yeah. That's... good". He focused harder on the faulty gearbox, still avoiding your gaze. "Yeah. it is.. I think I'm gonna head out now Mav...". "Yep. Cool. alright! good luck!" he threw over his shoulder as you turned to leave.

heading back to your car, you seriously start to question what's up with him. In all the time you've known Maverick, he's been nothing but uber-confident and well-spoken. Seeing him so uncomfortable has you seriously second-guessing your plans. Hopping into the driver's seat of Roosters ford, you try to brush any negative thoughts away.

two weeks later, you still hadn't proposed. Luckily before Rooster left that morning he made plans for the two of you to go out and celebrate another successful mission. According to what he said, the whole crew had a party planned later in the week, but he wanted you two to go celebrate first.

 Alone.

normally this wouldn't phase you, but seeing as you still had a certain black box hidden deep within your underwear drawer, you were a bit nervous.

adjusting the straps on the new dress he'd brought you, you make your way our of the bathroom. Glancing back at your dresser, you debate bringing the ring. You probably won't need it. Right?

After dinner Bradley drives out to the beach. Its a clear night  and the temperature is just right. You walk for a while along the coast enveloped in a comfortable silence. You notice Pennys bar off in the distance and realize that this is where you two first started talking. Right then, Rooster stops and turns towards the ocean. Looking over at him you feel yourself falling in love all over again. He lets out a near silent breath before grabbing your hands facing you. "y/n, i-"

wait.

this can't happening.

Your mind is going a million miles a minute as "STOP" flies out of your mouth."I mean, if you are going to do what I think you are, keep going! Please keep going! Just, i need a second to find something...". Roosters pauses, watching with curiosity as you fumble with your bag.  Your fingertips brush the velvety surface and you whip the black box out before tossing your bag aside. Flushed and a little winded, you prompt him to keep going. "Ok. continue". Rooster clears his throat before starting over. "Ever since my dad died, i've felt like my life was puzzle i needed to solve.  Then mom passed, and I gave up on ever completing it. Yet somehow from the very first moment i saw you, i knew everything would be ok. You gave me the courage to try again. It was when i was up there with Pete i realized that although i thought my puzzle was complete, it was actually missing the most important piece, you. Y/n, will you complete my puzzle and do me the honor of marrying me?"

Your voice catches in your throat as you shakily, "The honors all mine.". 

After exchanging rings, Rooster lets out the loudest cheer you'd ever heard before capturing your lips with his. Time slows as your senses are completely overwhelmed by him. Many moments pass like this until you pull back slightly, admiring the love drunk look flash across his features. Your arms hang loosely around his neck as he glances behind him at the ever rowdy Hard Deck. 

"So, wanna go celebrate?"

 "Absolutely. Right after you help me fish my bag out of the ocean." 

a- asking (Who's the first person to confess and how does it happen?)

Saying Bradley exudes confidence is the understatement of the century. This confidence crosses over into every part of his life, love life included. He will 100% approach you first.

B - Butterflies (How they act when they're nervous.)

Truly nervous Rooster is a rare sight. He just shuts down. His breathing gets very rapid or very shallow depending on the situation. You can also tell he's just not all there and present. Once he's in that headspace, it can take a lot to get him out of it.

c- cuddles (What is their favourite cuddling position? Do they like physical touch?)

He wasn't a fan of physical touch until it came to you. Turns out this boy LOVES to cuddle. When it to comes a position, he's not picky.

d- domesticity (Are they the type to settle down with you? Are they willing to help with chores? What is your daily routine with them?)

I know it's such a cliche military stereotype, but once he's sure you're "the one", he's ready to settle down immediately. As far as chores and standard husbandly duties, Bradley is husband of the year, every year, for the rest of time. There's nothing he won't do for you. Want him to do dishes? Already done. Need him to fix the back porch? He's on his way to Home Depot rn. Want to use him as a ladder to dust the ceiling fan? He's bending down for you to swing your leg over his shoulder. Husband of the century.

e- encouragement (Do they encourage you to achieve your goals? If so, how do they support you?)

He's extremely supportive, especially vocally. He could spend the rest of his life singing you praises. Ask anyone and they'll all say he virtually kissed the ground you walk on.

f- favourite thing(s) about you (What are their favourite personality traits/physical features about you?)

he loves your outlook on life. He tends to be kind of pessimistic, so he loves if you provide some kind of contrast to that. He also loves how supportive you are of his career and him overall. It's far from an easy job/lifestyle, even just as a spouse, so having someone in his corner means the world to him.

g- goofiness (Do they like to make you laugh? How often do they joke around with you?)

Since the moment he laid eyes on you, hes done everything I his power to make you smile. Most of all he want to make you flustered. He's completely shameless with it to. He'll say the most out of pocket things in front just about anyone. The only people he won't do that around are his superiors, because he's on his Best Boy™️ behavior.

h- honesty (Would they lie to you? How much do they share with you?)

Overall he's quite honest, especially once you get to know him/he starts to trust you. If your with him, he'd only lie to you if he truly felt that it'd protect you in some way + it wouldn't hurt you to not know the truth

i- i love you (how fast do they say the L-Word?)

Looking back, he knew he loved you pretty soon after you two got together. This terrified him. Despite his forwardness in every other part of your relationship, this would be where you’d have to take the lead. 

 j- jealousy (Are they the type of person to get jealous? If so, how do they react to being jealous?)

This man is jealous as the day is long, especially around his fellow servicemen (and women!). He knows how they can be and while he trusts you completely, he doesn't trust them around you.

Speaking of which, i may or may not be working on a jealous! Rooster fic veryyy similar to this ;)

k- kissing (Where do they like to kiss you? How frequently do they like to kiss?)

He'll kiss anywhere he can access. He is partial to shoulder + neck kisses though.

l- love language (What's their love language?)

Words of affirmation. He absolutely LIVES off praise in both his professional and private life.

m- marriage (Do they want to marry you eventually? Who proposes to who?)

Just like in letter D, I don't want to lean into the stereotype but this man is on bended knee the second the idea evens pops into your head. He'll never tell you this, but he's been ready since a month or two into your relationship. He idolizes his parents so, so much and this includes their marriage.

He 100% will propose with his mothers ring too.

n- nicknames (What do they call you? What do you call them?)

So. Many. Nicknames. They evolve as your relationship does. You honestly don't know if he even remembers your real name at this point.

If you two get married, he's going to give you a call sign because you're his wingman in life :))

o- openness (How much do they tell you about themselves? Do they reveal everything at once or gradually throughout the relationship?)

It takes him a little bit to really open up. Once he sees that you give him a safe, calm, and stable environment and/or show that you're in it for the long run, he'll open up more and more.

p- PDA (Are they affectionate in public or do they prefer to keep your kisses behind closed doors? Are they the type to brag about their SO?)

PDA with rooster is a dangerous game. His most polarizing (and hottest) traits converge here. Ego, confidence, shamelessness, and deep sense of  possession. PDA for him isn't really about affection, it's a complete power move.

q- quality time (how do they like to spend time with you?)

He tends to like to do more simple things, especially if work had been hard recently. He'll bring you out to the Hard Deck or even just drive around in his gird for a few hours.  Other times he wants to do I see him getting bored pretty easily so I can imagine him wanting to try new things with you. I also see him as being pretty outdoorsy.  Hiking, camping, zip lining, salsa dancing, painting classes, the occasional fancy dinner, whatever. As long as you two are together he's having a good time.

r- romance (Are they the romantic type? If so, how do they express their feelings?)

Some people may not see it, but he's romantic in his own way.

s- security (How protective are they of you? If they are, how do they show this?)

Extremely protective, sometimes overbearingly so. Don't be afraid to tell him to chill out a bit. He will both kill and lay down his life for you. If it isn't obvious, his family is the one thing you DO NOT mess with.

t- turn-offs (What traits do they find unattractive?)

Lack of understanding, inability to be serious, passive aggressiveness, picking unnecessary arguments.

u- understanding (Are they good at sympathising with your problems? Do they listen to you when you need to rant?) He's pretty understanding overall. If you're really emotional + impulsive there might be some friction, but he's more than willing to work with you to smooth everything over.

v- value (What do they value most about your relationship?)

Trust and security. This boy has what could be considered the most stressful and risky job out there.

w- wild card (A random headcanon about your relationship)

As much as he loves his job, and as much as a part of him that it is, the thought of something happening to you while he's out there shakes him to his absolute core. He remembers what it was like when his mother was widowed and he will do everything in his power to keep that from happening again. As time goes on he developed nightmares involving this exact situation.

x- x-ray (How well are they able to read you?)

He believes it's his mission to know you front, back, and inside out. It's honestly a little scary how well he's able to read you. It's also not uncommon for him to pick up on things you haven't even picked up on yet about yourself.

y- yearning (How well do they cope when their SO isn't with them?)

It kind of depends. If he's off doing something that keeps his mind busy, he's pretty ok. If there's a lot of downtime or he's doing something especially dangerous (so like, his job) he struggles a bit more. He honestly finds it harder when YOU travel instead of him. In his mind, you're supposed to be the constant to his variable.

z- zappy (Are they fast-paced in a relationship? Or do they like to take things slow?)