Read, Write, Repeat.

Now, as he walked back to his room, Rooster smiled at Phoenix and Bob. The three of them were the last to leave The Hard Deck that night and they remained quiet as they walked toward the Top Gun dormitories. 

A small handful of pilots were recalled back to Top Gun for a brief detachment that no one was worried about. It would only be a week of training before the mission, so Rooster told himself that he would try and enjoy every moment of his friends’ time. It wouldn’t be long before everyone was shipped back to different corners of the world. 

From down the hall, Rooster heard someone cursing. Judging by the way Phoenix and Bob straightened, they also heard it. The group tiptoed down the hall until they could poke their face around the corner. The dim lights cast eerie shadows along the hallway of doors. Rooster didn’t have time to think about the creepy hallways, though. Instad, his attention was immediately pulled to Hangman, who was leaning on the doorway of your room. 

Hangman was speaking in a near whisper to someone inside the room, Rooster could only assume it was you. Rooster was suspicious by Hangman's loose pair of pants and a casual shirt. Maybe they were pj’s, but Rooster was more interested in the way Hangman was holding his bicep, a small scowl on the arrogant pilot’s face. Rooster guessed that he had been the one to curse just a moment ago. Had Hangman tried to worm his way into your room? Did you punch him for it? Rooster wished he could have been a fly on the wall to watch Hangman attempt to seduce you. Rooster would have punched Hangman, too.

Sure, you and Hangman were close but the endless teasing between the two of you hardly counted as flirting. If anything, Hangman would flirt with you but you would only toss insults back at him. It was one of the reasons Rooster liked you: the only person that could keep Hangman’s ego in check was you. 

“Maybe we shouldn’t-” Bob began, but Phoenix shot him a glare that could only mean “shut up”. 

Rooster rolled his eyes as he saw Hangman flash his award winning smile. You stepped out into the hall, your chest nearly flush against Hangman’s and Rooster waited for you to tell the pilot to politely fuck off. But Rooster almost fell over when he saw you grab a fistfull of Hangman’s shirt and pull him in for a kiss. With too much familiarity for Rooster’s comfort, Hangman wrapped an arm around your waist and his other hand slid into your hair. 

The kiss was over as soon as it began. You pulled away and pushed Hangman toward his own room. Hangman winked over his shoulder at you before you shut your own door.

The feeling of whiplash was beginning to settle over Rooster. Phoenix waited until Hangman’s door was closed before breaking the silence. 

“I must be dreaming,” she muttered. 

“I know I’m drunk…” Rooster said, running a hand over his face, “but I’m not that drunk.” 

The hangover that Rooster had the next morning was nothing compared to the confusion he felt while watching you and Hangman. He found himself reading into every little inside joke the two of you shared or the way you two would argue with one another. And Rooster knew he wasn’t the only one. Phoenix had her eyes laser focused on you while you traded snide remarks with Hangman. 

The two of you sat next to one another nearly every day. This morning was no exception. Rooster assumed that you two were friendly because you were stationed together. Being near one another for a couple of years could do that to a pair, despite one of them was as insufferable as Lieutenant Jake Seresin. But even being stuck on a remote island with Hangman wouldn’t lead to… what was this? Romance? A crush?

“They touched hands during Warlock’s lecture,” Phoenix whispered over lunch. Rooster and Bob leaned in and tried to talk between bites. 

“They didn’t touch hands,” Rooster answered, “she punched him.”

“Well what about-”

“-when Hangman fixed her flight uniform?” Rooster finished for Phoenix. She nodded, a grin on her face. 

“They were just being friendly,” Bob said, rolling his eyes. “They’re not doing anything illegal. What if they just… I don’t know… what if we don’t know what we saw?” Bob looked between Phoenix and Rooster. No one notice you or Hangman approach.

“What did you see,” you asked sweetly. Phoenix and Rooster nearly jumped out of their skin when you took a seat at their lunch table. Hangman took a seat next to you and the two of you looked around at the table. Bob looked down at his food. 

“Is everything okay?” You didn’t know what was happening but you knew enough to tell that something was happening. 

“Do you fly this afternoon?” Bob asked, finally breaking the silence. 

“Yep,” you answered, “I’m going up with Fanboy and Coyote.” 

The rest of the lunch passed amicably. However, that didn’t stop you from catching strange glances from your friends. You couldn’t tell if Hangman noticed, but you tried to push the thought out of your mind. You told yourself that you should focus on the coming dogfight. 

Hangman also notice that the others were acting strange but he chose to bring it up later. He didn’t want to distract you from your job. And Hangman knew that your head would be stuck on the coming dogfight. You didn’t need any drama.

But after lunch, you said goodbye to everyone and left for the tarmac. Coyote and Fanboy laughed with you as you strolled down the hallway. Hangman smiled at the sound. He knew that Coyote and Fanboy had your back.

Hangman left the lunch room and made a few jokes with some of his fellow pilots as they all walked to the rec room. Rooster, Phoenix, and Bob were walking with him and were good company.

Passively, the group listened to your dogfight over the radio while Rooster and Bob played a game of foo’s ball. Bob was losing, but Hangman and Phoenix cheered him on. Even with one ear on the radio, Hangman was able to give Bob a couple of tips. 

“Hangman, I thought you were on my side!” Rooster said as he almost let Bob score a point. 

“Since, uh, when?” Hangman crossed his arms and smiled at Rooster. It was enough of a distraction for Bob to score a point. Hangman gave Bob a high five and Phoenix clapped. 

“You’re off your game today, Rooster,” Hangman said with too much glee, “in fact you’ve been acting weird all day.”

“What do you mean?” Rooster looked up, meeting Hangman’s eyes. 

“Did they put something in the water yesterday at The Hard Deck?” Hangman looked between Rooster, Phoenix, and Bob. “Because the three of you have been… off all day.” 

“We’re fine,” Rooster said with a shrug. His eyes slid to the floor and Hangman scoffed at them. Phoenix and Bob exchanged a look and Hangman almost laughed at how guilty the group seemed. 

“What is it?” Hangman was distantly aware of your dogfight coming to an end. He heard the missile lock tone beep over the radio and he heard you and Coyote begin the landing procedure. Hangman threw his hands up at the ridiculous silence the group was giving him. Not even Rooster was rising to the challenge. 

“Do you have a thing for y/n?” Phoenix said, her words coming out too fast. Rooster’s head shot up and Bob pressed his lips into a tight line. Hangman blinked at Phoenix. Some of the other pilots in the rec room turned their attention towards the group. Hangman let out a laugh. 

“Y/n?” Hangman looked around at the people that were listening. “I mean, she’s fine, she’s cute, I think-”

“Are you blushing, Bagman?” Rooster interrupted. A smile widened on Rooster’s face as Hangman spluttered to silence. The blonde pilot ran a hand through his hair.

“No,” Hangman finally said, “I mean, I do like her. But I’m not going to do anything about it.” Hangman set his jaw and looked at Rooster, who had the biggest smile on his face. 

“Oh, but Hangman,” Phoenix said with false sweetness, “what were you doing by y/n’s room last night if you’re not going to do anything about it.” Rooster wanted to laugh when he saw Hangman’s face pale. The arrogant pilot froze where he stood, eyes locked with Phoenix’s. Phoenix, like Rooster, was grinning like a mad woman. 

“You calling me a liar?” Hangman said, a corner of his lips turning up. He heard footsteps down the hall and knew he needed to make a decision before you came back. 

“I wasn’t that drunk last night,” Rooster added, “I know what I saw. Are you trying to tell me it was someone else outside of y/n’s room last night?” 

“I mean,” Hangman said slowly, “I was safe in my room all night.” As if Hangman planned it, you strolled into the room, followed by Coyote and Fanboy. The three of you still wore your flight suits and smelled like sweat and oil. You took one look at everyone in the room and knew something was happening. 

“But if there was someone outside of her room last night,” Hangman said, standing beside you, “I’d have to show him who she belongs to.” Rooster’s mouth fell open as he watched Hangman wrap a large hand around your throat. He used his thumb to tilt your head toward his and planted a swaying kiss against your lips. 

After a shocked moment of silence, Coyote let out a whistle. Hangman pulled back from you and Rooster could see the blush on both you and Hangman. 

“They know,” Hangman said to you before you could say anything. 

“Did Bob tell them?” You turned your head toward Bob who mutely opened and closed his mouth as he fished for words. Phoenix punched Bob’s arm. 

“You knew?!” She glared at Bob who rubbed his sore arm. 

“I mean, I saw them once-” Bob tried to explain before Phoenix tried to punch him again. The room erupted in gossip and accusations. You and Hangman stayed quiet as the others talked over one another. 

“Just wait until they find out how long we’ve been together,” Hangman said, his lips against your ear. Your toes curled and you leaned into him. You kissed him again and enjoyed the chaos around the room. It felt good to kiss him so openly. 

"Wait until I tell them you're addicted to watching Love is Blind." You raised an eyebrow at Hangman.

"We can finish the season tonight, right," Hangman asked without shame. You rolled your eyes.

"As long as we aren't up as late as we were last night," you said. Hangman only laughed and pressed a kiss to your forehead.

Maybe it was good that the others finally knew.

A/N: thank you for reading this little one shot! It took a little longer than I thought to get this one out.

“I think she’s…” Cyclone said slowly. He realized he wasn’t really sure what you were doing. Phoenix stood by your side, helping you adjust the hem of your dress or the way you held your flowers. Rooster and Bob stood a few paces behind, allowing you and Phoenix to make adjustments. 

“I’m almost ready,” you said in a raised voice. Through your reflection in the mirror, you had noticed Maverick. 

You looked down at the engagement ring on your left hand, thinking about the day that Hangman proposed. It was the first and only time you had ever seen him act nervous. He seemed so out of sorts during the days leading up to proposing that you were beginning to suspect an imminent breakup. 

“You know Hangman, don’t you y/n?” Bob asked one day. You were stateside, visiting Bob and Phoenix who also happened to be back and had some free time. You hadn’t seen them in a few months and were surprised to discover that Bob, Phoenix, Rooster and Hangman were all going to be in Washington D.C. during the same week. In hindsight, you should have suspected something. But you were too happy to see your friends and boyfriend to harbor any feelings of suspicion. 

“Unfortunately,” you admitted but grinned nonetheless. You were sitting along a round table, waiting for dinner in a nearly empty restaurant. Actually, you were waiting for your boyfriend to arrive with Rooster who he was supposed to be picking up from the airport for this dinner. But the large windows gave you a beautiful view of the city as the sun began to descend. 

Just as you began wondering if you should sit on the outside deck, Phoenix spoke.

“You’re sure he’s a good match for you?” Phoenix asked, giving Bob a glance. You looked between the two of them, suspicion beginning to form in your mind. 

“I mean, is two years long enough to date a person?” Bob continued.

“What?” You began but Rooster and Hangman chose that moment to make their entrance. Rooster, after spending several months away from you, didn’t hesitate to crush you in a tight hug. 

The rest of the dinner went by quickly. Despite the whole restaurant being empty, the five of you talked and laughed enough to fill the space with noise. You were pleasantly surprised by how well Hangman was getting along with everyone. You knew he considered them to be his friends and that they considered Hangman to be their friend, too. But even friendships came with good natured bickering. 

Tonight though, there were no fights. 

“I love the city during sunset,” Hangman said abruptly, “want to go look outside with me?” Hangman turned to you, his fingers nervously dancing on the arms of his chair. He had just put a very sudden end to the previous discussion by asking you to join him on the patio. 

“Sure,” you answered, brows furrowed. You gave Phoenix and Bob a look before Hangman took your hand and pulled you outside. 

“You’re on your best behavior tonight,” you said, your voice full of accusation. The evening breeze brushed against your face and you took in the sounds of the city.  

“So you’ll indulge me in a game of two truths and a lie?” Hangman said, leaning against the deck railing. You nodded and waited for him to speak but he returned the gesture, inviting you to take the lead. This was normal behavior for your relationship. The game often came up and the two of you had grown pretty adept at reading one another. 

“I’m glad you’re here with me; this evening has been so lovely; and you look stunning in the sunlight.” You were pleased when Hangman’s face scrunched up in confusion. 

“First one…?” Hangman guessed. You shook your head. 

“Second one,” you answered, “tonight has been kind of weird. What’s going on?” 

“Wait wait, it’s my turn,” Hangman said. He took a deep breath and looked at you for a long moment before speaking. You began monitoring his face, waiting for the lie. 

“Despite my better judgment, you are the love of my life; I am going to make you my wife; and the sky is purple.” Hangman finished. Your heart began thumping so loudly in your ears you almost didn’t hear the last statement. 

Hangman used your silence as a moment to fish a magnificent ring out of his pocket. He kelt and took your hand in his. 

“y/n Ice Queen y/l/n,” Hangman said in the softest voice you’d ever heard, “will you marry me?” 

“Wait, no,” you said too quickly. Hangman’s face split into twenty different emotions. You continued, “I mean, wait. It’s my turn.” With a steadying breath, you smiled at Hangman, trying to reassure him. 

“You are the biggest thorn in my side; I am going to be your wife; and the sky is lavender.” 

“Well, the sunset does make the sky seem a little-”

“Shut up, you moron,” you said with an exasperated cry. Hangman slid the ring on your finger and picked you up in a hug. There was cheering inside the restaurant. You looked back through the window to find the place suddenly full of people you knew. Friends and family were scattered around the empty tables and everyone was cheering for you. 

“What’s taking so long? Don’t tell me the bride ran away,” a voice said outside the dressing room. You pushed the memory of your proposal away and looked toward the dressing room door. 

Maverick and Cyclone turned to see Hangman marching toward them. 

“Don’t let him-” You began, but to your surprise, Rooster, Bob, Maverick and your dad all made a beeline towards the speaker. You watched in awe as the swarm of men in their navy whites quickly made their way out to intercept Hangman before he could see you. 

The first person to reach Hangman was Cyclone. Placing a firm hand on Hangman’s shoulder, Cyclone stopped Hangman in his tracks. 

“I tried to stop him,” Coyote said, arriving slightly out of breath. 

“Son,” Cyclone said with a serious voice, “don’t. She’s almost ready.” 

“Son?” Hangman echoed, looking at Cyclone with mild concern. Maybe fear? 

“Don’t push your luck,” Cyclone muttered, releasing Hangman. Maverick watched Cyclone evaluate Hangman’s uniform. It was impeccable. 

“I’m already the luckiest man alive,” Hangman answered. Despite his words, all signs of ego seemed to be gone. Maverick was surprised to find pure glee on the young pilot’s face. But despite the evident happiness, there was also mild impatiences. Hangman craned his neck, trying to see past the wall of men between himself and you.

“Jesus, you’re like a child,” Rooster said with a gentle smile. “She’s almost-”

“I’m ready!” Your voice called out from your room. Maverick was sure he saw Hangman’s face brighten with joy. 

“Good!” Hangman called down the hall, “I was starting to think you’d leave me at the altar, Ice Queen!”

“Don’t worry, Seresin,” you shouted back, remaining in your dressing room, “I already scared all the better men away. You’re stuck with me!”

“Ain’t no better man than me, baby. I’m the best thing to ever happen to you and you know it!” Hangman grinned. But when he looked back at Cyclone, Maverick almost doubled over in laughter from the cold gaze that your father gave your soon-to-be husband. Maverick and Rooster had to look away to hide their smiles. 

Bob and Coyote escorted Hangman away. The wedding was about to begin. 

And to your dismay, the day went by too quickly. You tried to take in each small moment, but there was too much joy and laughter for you to try and slow down. Of course, standing at the altar with Phoenix, Rooster, Bob, and your dad as your wedding party would be a feeling you’d never forget. Seeing Coyote, Fanboy, and a couple of your fiance’s brothers across the altar was not something you’d soon forget, either. 

And your fiance. 

Clutching Hangman’s hands in yours as Warlock officiated the wedding was the best feeling in the world. His green eyes crinkled with his wide smile and you loved the way he wore his navy whites. You nearly let a tear slip down your cheek as you began your vows, but Hangman swept a thumb along your face and tucked a piece of hair behind your ear. 

Everything was perfect. 

Until the reception began. The sheer amount of chaos and noise and celebration surprised you. The navy knew how to party. Even Maverick and Penny made their way to the dance floor and showed Rooster a thing or two about how to throw down. 

Of course, Hangman dragged you out to dance several times, too. He spun, dipped, and twiled you at just the right moments but you liked being pressed against his body most of all. The two of you couldn’t take your hands off one another. Even as you sat at the reception table, you were tucked under Hangman’s arm with your back against his chest, your head leaning against his neck, and your hand on his thigh. 

“Tired?” Hangman whispered, his breath tickling your ear. 

“I just don’t want it to end,” You said through a yawn. Hangman jostled you and you could feel his laughter vibrate through his chest. 

“We’ve got the rest of our lives, Ice Queen,” Hangman promised, “tonight is just the beginning.”

“God save me,” you chided. But, to your dismay, Hangman pulled you up and led you towards the exit. Several people stopped to talk to you, and you found yourself blinking away fatigue. 

“Are we leaving,” you asked during a moment alone. “We’re supposed to do the send off in a couple of hours.” 

“You’re not going to make it that long,” Hangman said, smiling at another guest. He then pressed his lips closer to your ear and you suddenly found yourself a little more awake.

“I’m not done with you, tonight.” Hangman’s voice took on a low timbre that made your heart beat faster. Hangman laughed into your hair. “That’s what I thought.”

“Where are you two going?” A voice asked. You turned to find Cyclone watching you leave with his arms crossed. 

“We’re- I was just-” you fished for an excuse, sounding like a child. 

“I’m taking her home, sir.” Hangman said with perfect manners. You turned to look up at your husband, surprised by how well he composed himself. Cyclone also looked a little shocked. 

“Go,” your father finally said with a wave of his hand, “I’ll cover for you.” Hangman nodded and began to lead you away but you pulled yourself out of Hangman’s grip. Clutching your dress in your fists, you made a mad dash towards your dad. 

“You’re the best,” you said, crushing your dad in a hug. He didn’t hesitate to return the embrace with the same ferocity before pushing you away. 

“Go,” your dad said, trying to pretend his voice didn’t just crack. You nodded, pretending the new tears in your eyes didn’t exist. With one sure step after another, you made your way back to Hangman and took his hand. Silently, you two made your way to Hangman’s car. But before you could open the door for yourself, Hangman blocked your path. 

He leaned against the car, placing his back on the passenger door. 

“I just want to look at you for a sec,” he grinned, then added “the moonlight really brings out your tears.”

“Shut up,” you swatted at your husband but he pulled you into a hug. 

“Interrogation game, my rules.” Hangman pulled you back to look at him. 

“Right now?” You asked. Hangman nodded, seeming serious for a moment. 

“Are you happy?” Hangman asked, no sign of laughter on his face. 

“Of course,” you breathed. 

“Do you ever wish you ended up with someone… easier?” He continued.

“Never,” you promised, answering instantaneously. “Jake Seresin, despite my better judgment, I love you.” 

Your husband nodded, his lips pressed together. He blinked a few times and you automatically moved to wipe away a gleaming teardrop. He took a deep breath before laughing, becoming overcome with joy. 

He placed both of his hands on the sides of your face and pulled you in for a searing kiss. 

“Do you know you’re probably one of the best looking brides in the whole world?” He asked, a little breathless now. You scoffed and lightly punched his arm. 

“Ain’t no better bride than me. I’m the best thing to ever happen to you and you know-” Hangman cut you off by rolling his eyes and pulling you in for another kiss. 

A/N: So I Loved writing this story. Hangman has me in a choke hold and to celebrate the fact that this fic bumped my followers to over 1K, I am writing a smaller series with a Pilot!Reader. Here is a sneak peak. Please let me know if you're interested.

And I hope you enjoyed this series! <3

Now you were standing near Warlock, holding your breath as you watched both dagger one and two fight their way out of Coffin Corner. And you felt the world shift under your feet when Rooster was out of countermanervers to combat the SAMs; you collapsed into a seat when command lost Maverick’s signal; you almost had a fit when Hangman volunteered to fly out to provide air support; and you definitely stopped breathing when command lost Rooster’s signal. There was nothing you could do to save Rooster and Maverick. Those Idiots. 

The longest moments of your life began as Phoenix, Bob, Fanboy, and Payback began their flight back. The command room was soberly silent. You met your dad’s gaze only once, and the expression on his face nearly broke you. He clearly didn’t believe that Maverick and Rooster were coming back. 

You moved to leave the command room, deciding that you had spent enough time hoping for some kind of miracle. 

But the miracle appeared as your hand was on the door handle. Rooster’s signal was back. You didn’t know how and you didn’t care. But there was no communication signal coming from the plane carrying Rooster’s signal. 

“Requesting permission to fly out to assist,” Hangman’s voice filled the command room’s speakers. 

You knew the worst of the mission had passed, but your blood froze in your veins at the thought of Hangman flying into danger. You had to smile at the irony of feeling like a literal ice queen. 

“Negative Hangman,” Cyclone commanded. You felt relief but then began thinking about Rooster. What if it was him and he needed help? What if-

Your thoughts were interrupted as Rooster and Maverick’s panicked voice filled the command room. They must have figured out how to get the comms to work. And from what you could tell, they weren’t alone. The momentary joy of discovering that Rooster and Maverick were alive was immediately squashed as you listened to their distressed conversation. 

“Requesting permission to fly-” Hangman began again. 

“Permission granted,” your father didn’t even wait for Hangman to finish asking. You glanced at your father but he kept his eyes forward. Warlock, on the other hand, looked at you with a pitying expression. Your hand was still on the door handle and you were frozen with the thought of Hangman flying into a possible dogfight. You mentally pleaded with your dad to rescind permission to take off, but knew that Rooster and Maverick needed help. 

“Copy,” Hangman said, “taxying out and ready for take off. Make sure y/n doesn’t freak out when I’m gone.” That was enough to push you into action. 

A few heads turned your way. You threw open the door to the command room, feeling indignant, anger dancing in your chest like a fire. But for the first time that day, you realized that you were feeling something other than anxiety and despair. The anger felt good. 

You made eye contact with your father, seeing that Cyclone raised both eyebrows in your direction. It wasn’t enough to stop you from running out of the command room. Cyclone called after you, but you knew he wouldn’t leave the command room. 

“Hangman, you better hurry back.” You heard your father say as you spirited away. Hangman had the audacity to laugh over the headset. The arrogance was going to get him killed. 

You shoved past sailors and air crew as you made your way to the flight deck. People were calling after you. You weren't supposed to be here. You should have protective gear on. What were you doing? 

The voices around you didn’t matter. You managed to get outside in time to see Hangman’s plane lined up for take off. The sounds around you were unbelievably loud. A hand grabbed your arm but you kept your eyes on Hangman’s plane. The engines were firing up. The runway was cleared. People were staring at you. 

Don’t go, the selfish thought echoed in your head. And, as if he could hear your thoughts, you swore you saw Hangman’s eyes land on you. 

Your heart stilled as Hangman jetted off the aircraft carrier. 

Allowing yourself to be pulled back inside, you saw Warlock and Holdo were responsible for retrieving you. 

“What the hell,” Holdo said as Warlock pushed you back toward the command room. 

“I don’t know,” was all you could say. Warlock gave you a sympathying look, but said nothing all the way up to the command room. Holdo, on the other hand, was muttering profanities under his breath and lecturing you on the importance of safety. But before you stepped back into the command room, Holdo’s face softened. 

“Hangman is a good pilot,” was all he said. You clung to those words as you stepped back into the command room, slightly embarrassed by your behavior. 

Indeed, Hangman wasted no time in rescuing Rooster and Maverick. The instant relief that flooded through you when you realized that Maverick and Rooster and Hangman were coming back alive was like whole body euphoria. Your limbs felt like jelly and you were forced to take a seat once more. You practically cheered when Maverick did a flyby near the command room before he landed. 

Slowly, most of the room cleared out to go congratulate the pilots. However, you remained in your seat and just waited. It was the pilot’s time to shine. They just pulled off one impossible task after impossible task and you told yourself that you would congratulate them later. You appreciated the growing quiet in the command room. The only people that remained were necessary personnel and Cyclone. Warlock was one of the last to leave, but even he was down on the deck, celebrating with everyone. Your father eventually made his way to you. 

“I’m glad no one had to use your training,” he said with a smile. You looked up at your dad and at the same time, you both let out identical laughs. 

“Good,” you said. To your surprise, your voice still sounded shaky. Cyclone pulled you to your feet and the two of you made your way out of the command room together. Neither of you spoke. You just walked and after a moment, you realized that your dad was leading you towards the deck of the ship. You could hear the chatter from the elated crewmen and pilots. Nervously, you ran your fingers over your palm again. 

Before you could decide to turn around, Warlock came jogging your way. When he saw you and your father, Warlock smiled. He looked at you and nodded toward the deck. 

“They’re looking for you,” Warlock said, then amended, “he’s looking for you.” 

Gently pushing you with his shoulder, Cyclone propelled you forward and your world was moving in a blur. You don’t remember walking outside. You moved on autopilot, feeling like you were about to break down. 

They were home. They were all home. 

Smiling and hugging Fanboy and Payback brought a small part of you back to reality. The bone crushing hug that Phoenix gave you and that you gave her put a piece of your heart back into place. The fact that Bob didn’t even wait for you and Pheonix to stop hugging and just awkwardly wrapped his arms around you both, suddenly made breathing easier. And when Rooster found you, he picked you up into a hug and swung you around so many times you felt dizzy. Maverick had to steady the two of you when you practically fell over from vertigo. 

“Ice Queen!” Hangman bellowed. Almost every head in earshot turned his way, including yours. The smile on your face fell when you saw his expression. Hangman stood a few yards ahead of you, brows pulled into scowl. He held his helmet in his hands and, even from this distance, you could see how white his knuckles were. 

“I have a bone to pick with you.” Hangman took a step toward you and the crowd parted like the red sea. No one stood between the two of you.

“Hangman, don’t-” Rooster began, but you pushed past your old friend and waited for Hangman to reach you. Your heart thudded in your chest as Hangman tossed his helmet aside. He reached you like a bull charging at a matador. He shoved your shoulders hard enough that you had to take a few steps back. 

“What were you thinking?” Hangman said as he continued to advance on you.

“Excuse me?” You asked, finding your voice. 

“I don’t ever want to see you pull a stunt like that again. Walking out onto an active runway? With no permission, no gear-” Hangman tore into you. 

“What happened?” Maverick asked Cyclone. Your father crossed his arms and explained your reckless decision to be on deck when Hangman took off. Maverick and Cyclone watched, shoulder to shoulder as Hangman explained all the reasons you shouldn’t have walked onto the aircraft carrier deck. Maverick was even surprised to see that Cyclone had to reach an arm out to stop Rooster from interfering. 

“She deserves this,” your father said grimly, “but it’s weird watching Hangman tell someone else to follow the rules.” Maverick nodded in agreement. 

Eventually, Hangman decided he was done yelling at you. His chest was heaving from the lecture and the two of you stood mere inches apart. 

“I hate you,” was all you could manage. Hangman let out a frustrated cry and shocked everyone by scooping you into his arms. 

“What are you doing?” You squirmed in Hangman’s arms. 

“Interrogation game,” Hangman muttered. 

“Now?” You began trying to fight your way out of Hangman’s arms. Some part of you protested at the idea of being picked up like a bride in front of so many people, but Hangman didn’t give you a chance to escape. He surprised you with a deep, chest laugh and planted a chaste kiss on your cheek. You immediately stilled. 

“What the hell happened on that beach last night?” Rooster turned to Phoenix who looked just as surprised as he felt. 

“They were doing something on the beach last night?” Cyclone turned to Rooster, overhearing the young pilot’s question to Phoenix. Rooster chose to ignore his question. 

Your senses returned to you and, again, you tried to wriggle out of Hangman’s arms. He only tightened his hold before throwing you over his shoulder for the second time in 24 hours. He began walking into the aircraft carrier. 

“Lieutenant, where are we going?” you asked, trying to find some dignity in being carried over Hangman’s shoulder.  

“You promised that after I came back as the hero,” Hangman explained, “that you were going to answer all of my questions - no lies.” Some part of you began to wonder if the worst part of your day was only just beginning. 

To your dismay, many of the pilots followed you and Hangman. Being thrown over his shoulder, you were able to count exactly how many heads were trailing you. After quickly taking off their aviator uniforms, Rooster, Phoenix, and Bob even found their way toward you. Coyote was close behind, carrying Hangman’s forgotten helmet. 

Hangman found a room that resembled a lunch area and gently lowered you to the ground. 

“Ask you questions,” you said, eyeballing the door. The pilots were quickly filing in and you wanted Hangman to ask his worst questions before a real audience appeared. But he wasn’t going to let you off so easily. 

“Slow down, princess,” Hangman motioned for you to take a seat at a little, two person table. It was dead center in the room. Hangman was going to make a show out of your interrogation and for the first time in a while, you were excited to play this game. 

After you sat, you glanced up at Hangman. But he remained standing. With his arms crossed, a childish smile on his face, he began sauntering around the table. 

“What are you doing?” you scoffed. 

“I’ve seen movies,” Hangman answered, “the good guy always interrogates the perp like this.” Your eyes followed Hangman as he moved around you like a shark. It was almost like he was waiting for an audience to build. 

Deciding to play into this fantasy he was creating, you grinned sweetly up at him. You put your elbows on the table and rested your chin on your hands. 

“I didn’t know I was a ‘perp’, Lieutenant.” You gave Hangman your most chaste smile and he laughed, breaking eye contact. 

“Don’t give me that,” Hangman said, running a hand over his face. Was he blushing?

“We’ll start easy: how’d you meet Rooster?” Hangman asked. You glanced over to your friend and he gave you a small smile, his mustache twitching up at the memory. 

“I rescued him from nearly getting kicked off of his first aircraft carrier.”

“After you got me into trouble,” Rooster added, unable to stop himself. Hangman gave Rooster an appraising look before turning his attention back to you. 

“Phoenix, is that how you became friends with Ice Queen, too? Did she get you into trouble?” Hangman was standing behind you now and you had to duck your head as you began to laugh. 

“Oh no,” Phoenix said with a wicked grin, “I met y/n during my first year at the Navy after she took all my money-”

“-in a game of cards?” a voice chimed in from the door. You looked up to find Maverick entering the large cafeteria space. He was followed by Cyclone and Warlock. Your father looked between you and Hangman before finding his way to the back of the room. 

“In a game of cards.” Phoenix confirmed. Hangman came around the table and looked at you, still grinning. But your eyes were on your father. 

“Hey,” Hangman said in a low voice. He bent down, catching your attention once more. “We don’t have to…” Hangman made a nod towards where Cyclone was standing. 

“No, I made a deal with you. Ask your next question,” you turned back towards Hangman to find his green eyes searching your face. After a moment, he went back to his ridiculous pacing. 

“Seems like all your closest relationships started with rivalry,” Hangman mused. “Is that why you like me so much, y/n?” You bit your lip and wished you had a way to answer without incriminating yourself. But a deal was a deal, and you had to answer. 

As you were thinking about what to say, Hangman waved his hand in the air like he was chasing away the question.

“Next question,” Hangman continued, “Did you miss me today?” Hangman stopped his pacing to lean on the table in front of you. His hands gripped both sides of the table as he leaned down to watch you. And maybe it was the lack of sleep or maybe it was because you were feeling somewhat sentimental, but you looked into Hangman’s face with one of the most honest expressions you’ve ever given. 

“You scared me today,” you answered in a low voice. Hangman froze, lips slightly parted as he took in your answer. Slowly, he pulled out the chair across from you and took a seat. The table was so small, he had to put his knee between yours under the table. 

“I told you I was coming back.” Hangman spoke just as softly as you did. The room was so quiet you could hear the metal ship creaking around you. 

Something passed between the two of you then. You couldn’t put a name to it, but it felt like an understanding or agreement. It felt like signing a lease to a new house, like maybe you had just found the home you’d been searching for. 

“Who’s the best pilot?” Hangman asked, allowing his grin to slide back onto his face. You matched his mischievous grin.

“My dad,” you answered with a strong voice. 

Along the back wall, Maverick and Warlock watched Cyclone’s lips fall open just the smallest amount. Everyone had heard your answer and even though you and Hangman continued your game of interrogation, Maverick could tell that Cyclone was lost in some kind of thought. Warlock bumped Cyclone’s shoulder with his own and Cyclone seemed to come back to life. 

Maverick watched your dad set his jaw and stand a little straighter. He recognized the emotion radiating from Cyclone. After all, he had felt it just earlier today after watching Rooster pull off one impossible maneuver after another. 

There was undeniable pride in Cyclone’s face. 

After being berated with question after question after question, Hangman must have decided that it was time to stop embarrassing you with the truth. He stood up from the chair and offered a hand across the table to you, signaling it was time to leave. 

You took his hand but didn’t rise from your seat. Instead, you leaned back in your chair, pulling Hangman back into his own. With a quizzical look, Hangman watched you lean all the way back in your seat and cross your arms over your chest. 

“Lieutenant,” you said in a honeyed voice, “what about my questions?” Hangman cursed under his breath. 

“I was hoping you’d forget about that part,” Hangman answered. 

“Oh, I just have one,” you answered, pinning Hangman to his seat with your gaze. 

“What’s one good thing about me?” You watched Hangman clench his jaw in a forced smile. Just as you began to feel victorious, Hangman’s smile turned wolfish. You felt your toes curl.

“The best thing about you, princess,” Hangman said in a taunt, “is that you’ve got me to be your better half.”

Epilogue

Despite your best efforts and your admittedly cold demeanor, you had become too close to all of the pilots. Rooster and Phoenix were probably your closest friends in the world, but you knew that they were the best pilots. You wouldn’t be surprised if Maverick chose them as part of the assault team. But even the other pilots had become your friends. Bob was the best karaoke partner; Fanboy always knew the punchline to the joke before you told it; Coyote never said no to a game of cards; Harvard and Yale taught you how to actually play Dogfight Football; and Hangman…

You two didn’t speak for almost a week. Almost. 

A week ago today you beat him in the interrogation game at The Hard Deck. Some of the pilots were still poking fun at his loss. You were glad to win the interrogation game, but you hadn’t heard his taunting voice in days. He was avoiding you like oil on water. At first you didn’t mind, but as you continued to listen to the Dogfights over the radio, you kept an ear out for his voice specifically. And as you did, you began to notice little things. 

The first time you noticed something was during a dogfight with Harvard, Yale, and Hangman. Predictably, Hangman left to chase down Maverick. But as he talked over the headset, you heard him almost methodically whispering lyrics. You had to really listen, but they were the lyrics to your favorite song. Thankfully you were alone, listening to the dogfight over a personal radio from the comfort of your room, but you hummed along to the melody. Rooster had played it the night before at The Hard Deck and you practically screamed the lyrics in the middle of the bar. Did Hangman hear that? If he was there, you didn’t notice him. 

The fourth time you noticed something strange was when Hangman, in the middle of a dogfight with Maverick, asked, “Hey Mav, why’d you never get married?”

“Sometimes I wish I did,” Maverick answered, “is this a new tactic? Try to distract me over the headset?”

“Was there ever a girl you could see yourself with?” Hangman pushed. 

“Hangman, why are you asking?” Maverick asked after a moment. 

“I’ve just been thinking about it…” was all Hangman said. 

The most recent time you noticed something was going on with Hangman happened when he tried to fly through the simulated valley for the first time. You were in the rec room with most of the other pilots, trying not to be impressed by Hangman’s flying. He was staying below the 100 foot hardeck and swerved left and right to avoid being targeted by the surface to air missiles. This was the fourth time he had flown this track. He was even beating his personal record while avoiding the SAM’s.

Coyote and Fanboy were having trouble keeping up. 

“Damn, Hangman, what’s got you flying so fast?” Fanboy’s strained voice came over the radio. 

“I’ve got a lot to lose,” Hangman answered. You rolled your eyes and heard Coyote give a small chuckle. 

“The ego,” you mouthed to Rooster. 

“Nothing can compare to a man in love,” Coyote said over the headset. Hangman just scoffed but you froze where you were standing. Rooster turned to you then and he looked as confused as you felt. Rooster raised his hands and shrugged, he didn’t know what it was about either. But you were eerily aware of the other pilots in the rec room with you. All of you had been listening to the radio but now a few people’s attention shifted towards you. 

But none of that compared to the fight you had with Hangman just hours ago. You were playing a game of cards with Coyote in the rec room. There were some other pilots around, but it was a game of poker and only you and Coyote were left in the game. Rooster, Phoenix, and Bob were looking over your shoulder while Payback was hovering next to Coyote. 

“Hey, Coyote,” you said slowly, “What was up with Hangman the other day?”

“What do you mean?” Coyote said. He was looking at you over the top of his cards. You knew you shouldn’t pry, but the pilots were leaving for the mission tomorrow. This may be your last chance to find out. Luckily, Phoenix knew where this conversation was going. 

“You said Hangman was in love,” Phoenix answered. You watched Coyote’s eyes dart back towards his playing cards. Payback turned a nervous expression toward Coyote. 

“It’s someone we know,” you whispered. After watching these pilots for weeks, you knew their ticks and tells. Coyote was trying to hide something from you and Payback knew what it was. 

“Look, it’s probably not even that serious,” Payback said, trying to cover for Coyote. 

“What do you know?” Rooster asked. You leaned forward in your chair, watching the two pilots in front of you. Neither of them spoke. Knowing the power of silence, you let the quietness become louder. 

“Hey, y/n,” Bob muttered from behind you. Remaining silent, you chose to ignore him. You heard Phoenix shush him until… 

“y/n,” Phoenix said. You heard something hesitant in her voice. You let out a breath and turned around to face Bob and Phoenix. But they weren’t looking at you. They turned toward the doorway of the rec room and you were surprised to see that even Rooster was looking that way. And when you realized why, you understood Phoenix's tone. 

“Let’s talk in my office,” Cyclone said. He was standing in the doorway, awkwardly nodding at the other top gun pilots in the room. You nodded and tossed your cards down on the table and Coyote groaned. 

“I should have called your bluff, Ice Queen,” he said with a smile. “I would have won.” You laughed with him and gave Bob, Phoenix, and Rooster a comforting look. 

“See if you can find out anything else about Hangman,” you instructed. They all nodded and you followed your father out of the rec room. 

The meeting with your dad was short. He asked how you were doing, how the pilots were, what you thought of the mission tomorrow, and if there was anyone you would recommend to sit out of the mission. 

“Halo might be a weak link,” you confessed, “but everyone else - at least everyone that has been attending my classes - seems to be eligible for the mission.” Your dad nodded at your words. 

“You’re still planning on going with us to the aircraft carrier tomorrow?” Your father leveled you with a look. You only nodded. There was something else going on and you could tell that your father wasn’t telling you something. 

“It may not be a good idea,” Cyclone finally said. You felt your eyebrows pull together but patiently waited for an explanation. Cyclone ran a hand over his hair and continued: “I’ve noticed that you… distract some of the pilots. You’re attached to them. You wear your heart on your sleeve.” 

“Are you kidding,” you laughed, “they call me Ice Queen. I don’t think I’m wearing anything on my sleeve.”

“You care about them,” Cyclone said. He let a small smile creep over his face as he looked at you. “You get it from your mother, you know.” 

“I’m going to the aircraft carrier tomorrow and I plan on being in that control room during the mission,” you said but then added, “sir.” Your father locked eyes with you for a moment and he eventually nodded. He looked out the window and sighed. The sun was still above the horizon but it was quickly setting. 

“I think you distract the pilots but you also motivate them. Mav agrees. It’s no secret the effect you have on them. Sometimes Mav can’t get through to them but you can. The way you talk to Pheonix and Bob, your relationship with Rooster, Coyote, Hangman-”

“Hangman?” You interrupted. Your father only raised one eyebrow in your direction. There was something about the look coming from your father that made your neck feel warm. Were you blushing?

“We’re leaving the base at 0600 tomorrow. Be ready.” Cyclone said, dismissing you. Gladly, you left his office and made your way to the rec room. But something was wrong. There were shouts coming from the rec room and you knew those voices. 

You began running down the hall and could tell that Rooster was arguing with someone. It took a lot to get Rooster to that level of rage and you knew that it couldn’t be good. Where were Pheonix? Bob? What happened? 

“It’s none of your business what I think of y/n or who I talk to about her.” 

You stopped in your tracks. You were only a few steps from the doorway and you knew that voice too well. Hangman. Something about hearing him speak in person for the first time in a week startled you. It made you take a step toward the door but quickly stopped as Hangman spoke again. 

“This is none of your business,” he continued. Before you could do anything, he walked out of the room and into the hall. He froze as he looked up to find you. Rooster, Coyote, Bob, and Phoenix hurried out but Hangman didn’t look away from your face. Instead, he let his cocky facade slide into place. 

“We’ll if it isn’t the Ice Queen herself.” Hangman slid his hands into his pockets as you walked toward him. Your steps were quick, decisive. No one spoke as you planted yourself less than a foot away from Hangman, glaring up at him. 

“Are you going to break your vow of silence, sweetheart?” Hangman taunted. You mentally kicked yourself, wondering how you could ever miss his voice. 

“Lieutenant, what is your problem?” You set your jaw and stared at him. A shadow fell over his face as he leaned in. His breath danced across your face. 

“You,” he answered. He pushed past you and his footsteps echoed in the long hallway. You were left looking at your friends’ faces. Coyote gave you an apologetic look before he left to catch up with Hangman. 

“He requested that you stay here at Top Gun tomorrow rather than join Cyclone, Warlock and Holdo in the command room.” Phoenix said. You blinked a few times. So that was why your father had wanted to talk to you. But if Hangman didn’t want you there…

“Where are you going?” Rooster asked as you began walking away. You weren’t sure where you were going but your body pushed you to move in the opposite direction of Hangman. Tears pricked your eyes and your breath was coming in small bursts. Rooster and Bob made an attempt to follow you, but Phoenix held them back. 

You were so distraught that you walked most of the way to The Hard Deck before you even knew what you were doing. By a stroke of luck, Penny had found you walking in that direction. She was driving into work and knew something was wrong by the look on your face. Without asking any questions, Penny chauffeured you the rest of the way and poured a drink for you when you arrived. You sat in a small corner, watching the other patrons in the bar slowly trickle in as the night continued. The beer in your hand had become room temperature, but you didn’t care as it swirled around in the glass. 

After an hour or so of swirling your drink, a couple of bodies appeared at your table. Wordlessly, a few of the Top Gun pilots took a seat, giving you warm smiles. Rooster, Phoenix, Bob, even Payback and Fanboy pulled up chairs. You didn’t have to fake your joy when you looked at each of them. 

“If every single one of you doesn’t make it back from the mission tomorrow,” your voice broke as you spoke, “I’ll kill all of you.” 

The pilots around you laughed and began doing their best to cheer you up. Unknown to you, Hangman watched from across the room.

Hangman and Coyote looked on as their friends slowly cheered you up at the opposite end of the bar. Hangman could tell you had been crying and something in his chest ached when he saw your face. He understood why Coyote had forced him to come. 

“Don’t do this to her,” Coyote said in a low voice, “don’t do this to yourself, man.” Hangman’s eyes were glued to you but he nodded at Coyote’s words. 

Hangman’s mouth went dry as Rooster took your hand and pulled you up from the table. The pilots cheered as your face split into a genuine grin. You and Rooster began dancing to whatever the jukebox was playing. Arms flailing, head shaking, and lips grinning, you looked like the cunning girl he had beat at pool so many weeks ago. 

“Just look at yourself, Hangman,” Coyote chided. Hangman turned his attention to his friend and was surprised to find himself smiling. Hangman gave his friend a good natured shove and walked toward you. 

“Ice Queen!” Hangman bellowed. Almost every head in the bar turned his way, including yours. The smile on your face slipped and Rooster took a small step in front of you. That didn’t stop Hangman from giving you an award winning smile. 

“I have a bone to pick with you.” Hangman stopped just a few feet in front of you. Being this close meant that he could see how your eyes were still a little puffy from earlier tears. Hangman cursed himself but carried on. 

“Please,” he held out his hand toward you. It took great effort, but he let his face soften. He tried to lay himself bare in front of you with just a look. And as he watched your face, he knew you saw something on his own. Of course, that didn’t mean you weren’t skeptical. You placed your hand in his, but didn’t budge. Instead, your eyes narrowed, waiting for him to make the next move. 

“Convince me to listen,” was all you said. Hangman rolled his eyes.

“Why can’t you just make this easy, y/n?” Hangman closed his hand around yours and pulled hard enough to make you stumble forward. Using your momentum, Hangman threw you over his shoulder and turned to leave. He saw Rooster, as well as a handful of other pilots, move to defend you, but Coyote stepped in their path. Hangman didn’t know what his friend said to the others, but they didn’t follow him as he carried you out of the bar. Rooster didn’t even make an attempt to follow you outside. 

“Hangman! Hey, Lieutenant! Lieutenant Seresin. Stop!” You were hitting Hangman’s back which only made him tighten his grip around your legs. He didn’t stop until he stood on the dark beach, a few meters away from The Hard Deck. 

“Lieutenant, put me down-” you huffed, still struggling. 

“Say my name,” Hangman said in a low voice. He felt you still in his arms. He couldn’t see your face but he knew you understood what he wanted. After a moment of silence from you, Hangman gave your ass a hard flick. You began to swear.

“C’mon,” Hangman said, “just let me hear you say my name and I’ll put you down.” 

“Jake Seresin, put me down now,” you said through gritted teeth. 

“Yes, ma’am.” Gently, he allowed you to slide off of his shoulder. He kept a grip on you until he was sure you had found your footing in the sand. He watched you then, your face lit by the distant lights from the bar. You looked furious. 

“Look, I know-” Hangman didn’t get a chance to finish. With all your might, you punched Hangman’s gut. He doubled over, trying to catch his breath. Still, he was a little satisfied to see you shake out your fist. 

“Are you kidding,” you wheezed, clutching your hand, “Why is your stomach so… so hard?” 

“No one has ever complained about how hard I am,” Hangman said with a pained laugh. You moved to punch him again, but Hangman had learned his lesson. He caught your fist as it sailed through open air. You pulled back but Hangman didn’t let go of your wrist. Instead, your breath caught as Hangman pulled your hand to his chest and he began to gently massage your palm and knuckles. 

“Did you hurt your hand?” Hangman asked with a fake pout. 

“What do you want, Lieutenant?” You glared up at the pilot. 

“I want to talk to you. Can I do that? Will you just listen, for once?” Hangman’s voice sounded frustrated but void of it’s usual bravado. You watched his face for a moment, wondering where this was going. You wanted to release your frustration. You wanted to punch him again. It would hurt, but it felt good to let your feelings out like that. 

The way Hangman was holding your hand  also felt good. 

“As long as you don’t stop doing that,” you finally answered.

“Yes ma’am,” Hangman grinned. 

“And if this is going to be a long conversation, I’d rather sit.” You quickly added. Hangman nodded and pulled you down into the chilly sand. You sat across from him and you had to lean forward for Hangman to keep massaging your palm. Your legs were crossed and so were his. Your knees were resting against his crossed legs. 

It wasn’t a comfortable way to sit and he noticed. Wordlessly, Hangman moved closer. He lifted his legs and placed them on either side of you so that they rested over your folded legs and his feet stuck out behind you. He silently raised an eyebrow asking if it was okay. You gave him a little nod. 

“You distract me-” Hangman began.

“So you had to go tell my dad?” You interrupted. 

“You said you’d listen.” Hangman glared. You apologized and motioned with your free hand for him to continue. 

“I think I hate you,” Hangman said, but he continued to speak before you could interrupt again, “You - and I cannot stress this enough - make my head hurt. Like the worst headache I've ever had. You’re just always… Something about you and that smart mouth of yours brings out the worst in me and it makes me want to be better. I don’t know what it is, Ice Queen, but you make me grind my teeth and for the first time in my life, when I’m up there, all I can think about is coming back down. I want to come find you in the rec room playing cards with Coyote and I want to go to The Hard Deck and see you singing with Rooster and Phoenix. I want to be the one dancing with you and I want to show you that I can spin you around better than anyone else in the whole bar. And even when I’m up in the air, I just… I know you’re listening and want to talk to you. And I hate it, y/n.” 

You didn’t know when it happened, but at some point Hangman stopped massaging your hand. You sat, facing the arrogant pilot, one of your hands was held in both of his while your other hand lazily rested on his thigh. 

“Oh, now you’re silent?” Hangman let out a nervous laugh. “I think you’re clever and I also think that makes you dangerous. And sometimes I want to take you down a notch because I know you can take me down.” Hangman seemed to be looking everywhere but your face. He kept your hand close to his chest and you tried to find something to say.  

“But all I really want is your attention,” Hangman glanced up at you, meeting your gaze. “and I hate you for ignoring me. I hate you for making me watch Rooster sing with you. I hate you because you like hanging out with Phoenix and Coyote and even Bob more than you like seeing me. And I hate watching you smile at everyone but me. And I just hate myself because…” Hangman’s voice broke then. He looked down at his hands, still clutching your own. 

“I hate you.” Your voice sounded so distant. The crashing waves behind you were loud but all you could hear was your heart beating in your chest. 

You and Hangman looked at one another. Neither of you spoke and you used your free hand to touch his cheek. You felt little grains of sand on his skin. His eyes never left your face as you wiped away some of the sand. 

“Say it again,” Hangman demanded. His voice was different now and you liked the way his face moved under your touch. 

“I hate you, Jake,” you said. Hangman inhaled and something in you felt unbelievably fragile like a glass box teetering on the edge of a high shelf. 

“I hate you and I hate the idea that you...” You had to take a deep breath to fight the lump in your throat, “I hate that I don’t know if you’re going to make it back from the mission, tomorrow. And if you don’t, I don’t know what I’m supposed to do with all this… hate.” 

“Well if that’s your concern, worry no more, Ice Queen,” Hangman said, bringing some of his bravado back, “rest assured, I’m the best. And I’m coming back tomorrow.” You rolled your eyes and laughed. Pulling your hands away from Hangman, you moved to swat his chest. He caught your wrist for the second time that night and, very slowly, brought your open palm to his lips. 

You told yourself to pull away. You told yourself this was a bad idea. But feeling Hangman’s lips against your palm pushed all thoughts out of your head. 

“Tell me you hate me again,” Hangman said, “you tell the best lies.” 

“Tomorrow, when you come back from the mission.” You promised. There was a challenge in your voice and you felt your familiar grin return to your face.  

“C’mon, Ice Queen,” Hangman said in a plaintive voice, “hate me tonight. Hate me now.” 

“Tomorrow,” you insisted. “when you’re back - safe and sound - I’ll hate you then.” Hangman raised an eyebrow, a little gleam beginning to show in his eyes. He took both of your hands in his.

“Tomorrow,” he began, “when I come back as the hero of the day, you and I are going to play your interrogation game by my rules. You’re going to answer all of my questions - no lies.”

“And you’ll answer my questions, too?” You asked. Hangman nodded and pulled you to your feet. 

“Yes, ma’am.” Hangman said, looping your arm around his. The two of you began walking toward The Hard Deck. You could see Rooster and Phoenix dancing with one another. Bob laughed with the other pilots around the pool table. And then you turned to glance up at Hangman. His eyes were already on you, an unreadable expression on his face. Thinking about what might happen tomorrow made your chest feel empty. So, if you held Hangman’s arm a little tighter or pressed yourself a little more against his side, you told yourself that it was better to enjoy it now than to regret it later. 

“Where are we going, Lieutenant?” You asked, turning away and hoping your blush wasn’t evident. He was leading you around The Hard Deck rather than back towards the entrance. 

“I’m driving you home,” He said with a shrug, “On the ride back, you can tell me more about our date tomorrow.”

A/N: Phew, chapter 5 is done and THE COMMENTS kill me. The support on this is so sweet. Literally the best motivation ever and @turningtoclown that hashtag is the best thing I've ever read. I am laughing so hard. @bluebunny780 and @teacactusworld your messages were so stinking kind.

Please let me know what you think of Ch. 5!

“Ice Queen is melting under the hot sun,” Hangman said loudly enough for everyone to hear. “Guess she just can’t take the heat.” You turned over your shoulder to glare at him, but kept your mouth shut. After your very public screaming match a few days ago, you had refused to say a single word to the arrogant Lieutenant. But between the heat and Hangman’s taunting you might just-

No, you told yourself. Sure, Hangman made you want to hurl fistfuls of sand at him, but you weren’t going to behave like a child. It’s what he wanted. Not to mention he’d started calling you a “daddy’s girl” in addition to Ice Queen and you knew that throwing a tantrum would only make his case. 

“Don’t you work for the CIA?” Penny asked, practically laughing at you.

“What?” You said, pulling your thoughts away from Hangman. You hadn’t realized you were scowling until that moment. You’d been sitting out for a few hours at this point and were feeling antsy. 

“I mean,” Penny said as she sipped her cold drink, “Mav said you had an incredible poker face. But this stick jockey seems to bring out the worst in you.”

“He’s just…” You turn your attention back to the beach and watch Hangman sweep some of his perfect golden hair out of his eyes. You threw your head down on the table before he could catch you watching. 

“Did Mav really say I had a good poker face?” You kept your forehead pressed against the table, not daring to look up at Penny. Something about this moment, the summer sun, and the overwhelming embarrassment brought a burning sensation to the back of your throat and you rubbed your eyes under the table. You felt Penny stand up and rub a circle along your back. 

“Sweetie,” Penny said in a sympathetic voice, “you know you’re good at what you do. Just focus on the job for now.” 

“I don’t want to back down from a challenge, Pen,” You huffed. She let out a laugh.

“Things aren’t about to get easier for you, kid.” Penny smiled at you as you pulled your head off the table. She nodded toward the beach and you groaned. 

“Everything okay?” Strolling up to you was none other than your dad. Cyclone looked between you and Penny, brows furrowed. 

“Mav said you haven’t been playing his crazy version of football,” Cyclone continued. You swallowed the lump in your throat and put on your best poker face with a smile. 

“Not really my game,” you said as you watched Holdo catch the football. You couldn’t stop yourself from laughing as all the pilots began to run toward him. The setting summer sun made them all glow like the ancient heroes of old. They were untouchable. Even Hangman seemed as invincible as he acted. 

“They’re all going to come back from this, right?” You turned your attention back toward your dad. His face was the most familiar face on the planet. You could read every micro expression he had. Each twitch of the eyebrow or double blink meant something to you. So when you saw his expression after you asked your question, you didn’t need him to say his answer. 

“I know,” you turned back toward the beach. The game of football was dying down. 

“It’s part of the job,” You said in unison with your father. Penny took that as her cue to leave, saying that the pilots would want drinks soon. You watched her enter The Hard Deck before you gave your dad an appreciative nod. He returned the gesture and left to talk to Maverick once more. 

You closed your eyes and took a few centering breaths. You were good at your job. You could handle whatever came next. Even if it meant-

“You doing okay, champ?” Fanboy asked. You opened your eyes and discovered that a couple of pilots had run up from the beach. You nodded and turned to find Phoenix and Rooster walking up. Bob was close behind and then there was Hangman. You turned your attention back to Fanboy who began filling you in on some of the game’s highlights. Rooster, Phoenix, and Bob, along with a few of the pilots, walked into The Hard Deck. Fanboy continued to talk with you until Rooster came back out, two beers in hand. Fanboy and Rooster exchanged a look and you realized what was happening. As Rooster took a seat, Fanboy went to get his own drink. A few pilots came out but you turned toward Rooster. 

“Are you guys taking shifts to watch me?” You asked. 

Rooster shrugged and passed a beer to you. 

“No,” he lied. He knew you could tell that he wasn’t telling the truth but you let him get away with the lie anyway. You leaned into him and smiled as Bob came back out. He walked over to the table like he was about to take a seat across from you but Hangman took his seat. 

You blinked across the table at Hangman, wondering where he had been just moments ago. He didn’t have a drink so he hadn’t walked into The Hard Deck yet… 

“Let’s play a game,” Hangman said, giving you his best smile. Deciding to keep your vow of silence, you placed your drink down on the table and crossed your arms. You glared at Hangman. 

“C’mon, Ice Queen,” Hangman pleaded, “you’re breaking my heart.” You maintained eye contact with him and something in you felt pulled toward the Lieutenant. You wanted to rise to the challenge. You wanted to be the one to defeat the blond haired, green eyed, stunning man of a pilot. And, of all the cruel things he had done to you, making you feel this way was the worst by far. 

You threw yourself to your feet. This was too much. You turned to leave and felt a strong grip catch your arm. You turned, expecting to find Rooster. Instead, Hangman had stretched across the table to grab your arm but Rooster was suddenly standing, too. An unspoken challenge passed between the two pilots and Hangman didn’t let go of your arm. The other pilots around you were tense with silence. 

Before you could stop yourself, you turned over your shoulder to see your dad and Maverick still talking. 

“Oh,” Hangman said, keeping his grip on you, “you don’t want to play with the big boys when daddy’s around.” You turned your attention back toward Hangman. 

“What do you want,” you nearly growled. Hangman cokced his head to the side and smiled.

“Say my name,” Hangman grinned. You recognized what he was doing. This was nothing but a power move. In front of all the other pilots, Hangman was going to bully you into submission. 

How dare he, was all you could think. How dare he try to pull this stunt in front of these pilots. How dare he try to bend you to his will in front of your friends. And how dare he try to make you say his name in front of your dad. 

Something inside of you roared to life as Hangman laughed at your silence.    

“You want to play a game? Let’s play,” you said, ripping your arm out of Hangman’s hand. You felt pounding in your head and anger building in your bones but you quelled that fire with ice. You took a seat and embraced the role of Ice Queen that Hangman was so fond of casting you in. He would get nothing from you. No emotions. No Mercy. 

Not far down the beach, Maverick and Cyclone turned their attention toward the group of pilots gathered around you and Hangman. Just barley, Maverick could make out what was being said. 

“That doesn’t look good,” Cyclone muttered. Maverick turned toward Cyclone and nearly laughed at his expression. Cyclone had spent his entire career in the Navy. This man had an impressive resume and a take-no-shit attitude. So why did your rivalry with Hangman seem to stress Cyclone out more than the thought of the coming mission? 

“You look like you need a drink,” Maverick said, clasping Cyclone by the shoulder. Cyclone shrugged off Maverick’s touch and looked back at the table. 

“Let’s see what they do,” Cyclone said, more to himself than to Maverick. Maverick sighed, followed Cyclone’s lead, and began eavesdropping on whatever was happening between you and Hangman. 

“The interrogation game.” Hangman was seated once more. “Two truths and a lie version?”

“No, true interrogation,” You answered, your voice sounded as smooth as the top of a frozen lake. “Unless you can’t take the heat, Bagman.” You felt Rooster shift beside you and from the corner of your eye you saw Pheonix raise her eyebrows. They knew that you were now the lethal girl that your father had raised. 

But Hangman seemed to be in his element. He looked like a cat about to catch a bird.

“I’ll start,” Hangman said, “who do you think is the best pilot on base?”

“Pheonix, Rooster, you. In that order.” You answered instantaneously and then took a sip of your beer. Hangman watched your face and you saw his eyes duck down to your throat as you swallowed your drink. 

“Who taught you pool?” You asked. 

“My dad,” Hangman answered. And you knew it was true, you just needed a litmus question to learn his lying ticks. Hangman continued, “Why do you hate me?” 

“You’re everything I despise in a man and I would be happier if we had never met.” You answered in the cold monotone before taking another sip of beer. A wave of hisses and whispers passed throughout the surrounding pilots. There was quite a crowd now but you only looked at Hangman. His eyes followed your drink from table top, to lips, then back to table. He nodded. 

“What’s your ideal woman?” You asked after setting your cup down. To your satisfaction, Hangman paused for a moment. You felt Rooster give your knee an appreciative little squeeze under the table. 

“The kind of girl that will push me, keep me awake at night,” Hangman’s throat bobbed, “Someone that I can come home to and knows that I put my life on the line for her. Even when I’m being… difficult, she still knows that I’m fighting for her.” You watched his face carefully, seeing no tells or hints of a lie. You nodded and Hangman rolled his shoulders before asking his next question. 

“What’s one good thing about me?” Hangman grinned. You took a breath before answering. 

“I like your sense of humor,” You answered. Hangman’s eyes watched you for a moment, he looked between you and your beer. Diligently, you avoided taking a drink and Hangman noticed. His smile widened. 

“Lie,” Hangman said, picking up your beer and taking a victory drink. “You took a sip from your beer after the first two questions. But this last question? No sip. Your tell is your stillness, Ice Queen. Your third answer was a lie.” His smile faltered when you let out a small laugh. He’d fallen for the trap. 

“The first two were a lie,” you stood then and a little cheer went through the crowd of pilots. “I win, Lieutenant Seresin.” 

You left Hangman sitting at the table, clutching your drink. 

"He lost, but Hangman's playing her game a little too well," Cyclone shook his head in disbelief, "and y/n is pushing him too hard." Enjoying the discomfort on his face, Maverick clasped Cyclone's shoulder again. 

"What are you going to say when Hangman asks for your blessing," Maverick asked with a smirk.

"What?" Cyclone said, voice turning sharp.

"Oh," Maverick said through a chuckle, "Not ready to walk y/n down the aisle?" With a laugh, Maverick walked toward The Hard Deck, leaving the stunned Cyclone standing on the beach. 

You, on the other hand, spent the rest of the night with a triumphant pep in your step. You heard Fanboy and Coyote make fun of Hangman as you left him at the table.  Phoenix and Rooster bought you victory drinks the rest of the evening. 

But you didn’t see Hangman again that night.

Part 5

A/N: This one was so fun to write. All the comments on Ch. 3 made me giggle and I’m convinced the comments turn me into a speed demon and make me write faster. 😅 @turningtoclown and @the-untamed-soul ‘s comments were so funny and @faithm120601 , if you still want y/n to punch Hangman, just wait until Ch. 5. The next two chapters will be long and a bit dramatic.