Swan Song

by SamHeartfilia (SamFullbuster)

Summary:

Picks up one month after the conclusion of Hummingbird Heartbeats.

Now that Jake is recovering nicely from his surgery and he and Bob are planning their future, it only makes sense that the universe would throw a wrench at them.

Notes:

Did you all really think I'd make you wait long?

Chapter 1: The Snake vs. The Dove

Jake sits on the floor of his room with his hands over his head and his doors and windows locked. Every light in the house is off except for his phone and his Jeep is in the garage, Hermia is at the vet for an overnight stay for a cough she developed, it looks like no one is home but that doesn’t stop the person pounding on his front door.

“Jay? Baby, come on, I know you’re in there! I saw you get home hours ago!”

He can’t stop shaking, his stomach won’t stop rolling and he’s got tears all over his face. Why won’t he leave? It’s been an hour! Is he going to have to call the police? Fuck he doesn’t want to. That will mean it’ll somehow get back to his parents despite both of them being overseas. He can’t have them know about this, they can’t know how he fucked up dating this guy.

Something slams into the door and Jake screams into his knees in shock. “God Dammit, Jay! You do not want to piss me off.”

Does he mean it’s worse than his reaction earlier when he spotted Jake talking to another alpha? He unconsciously holds his arm closer to himself where Matt grabbed him. And that was literally just a conversation with someone he went to college with for ten minutes! He and Matt have been broken up for weeks, he doesn’t know what it is that made the guy act like this. 

There’s another loud thump against the door. “I’ll give you a day but when I come back tomorrow you better open this fucking door.”Even what feels like an hour after Matt’s left, Jake doesn’t move from the corner he’s shoved himself into. What is he going to do? He thought if he ignored Matt he’d go away but it hasn’t worked. He’s only become more persistent. He’s so fucking scared he doesn’t think he can move.

The last time he went surfing he came out to find Matt waiting for him and before that, the bastard followed him to base and waited for hours until Jake left again. Everywhere he goes, Matt’s there just waiting and watching him. He tried to look up what kind of protections are out there for him but unless Matt actually hurts him there’s nothing they can do.

Fuck, he wants his parents so bad but Tom and Pete are both deployed and Beau has been in Japan for the last few years. He doesn’t know what to do, or who to go to.

“Jake?” He jerks at the sound of a new voice but it doesn’t sound like Matt. Booted feet clog up the steps and Jake covers his head with his hands. “Hey, Kid, where are you? I got Chinese for dinner and I know you haven’t eaten today since that big meeting at Top Gun.”

Slider, some of the tension leaves him but he still can’t move. All that comes out of his mouth is a long drawn-out whine.

The footsteps pause at the top of the stairs for a second before they rush to his room. His door jerks open and the lights flip on, but Jake remains firmly pressed into himself in the corner of his bedroom out of view of the window. “Jake! Jesus, pup, are you hurt?”

Jake shakes his head, refusing to lift his head up to look at his uncle.

Slider gently pulls the blond’s hands off his head. “Come on, kid, look at me, I need to see you’re not hurt.”

He takes a deep breath and pulls his head up enough to peek up at Slider. One look at the man’s concerned gaze, the reminder that this is someone whom he can trust and that he is safe with has him springing forward into the man’s open arms.

The alpha merely lets out a soft “oomph” as Jake comes barreling into him but otherwise easily shifts his nephew in his arms. “Okay, hey, you’re okay, Icicle.”

He cries big ugly sobs into his uncle's shirt, holding on as tightly as he can while Slider gently rocks him back and forth. “I-I’m sorry!”

“Shh, don’t apologize, just take deep breaths. I’ve got you.”

So he just cries, clinging to Slider the entire time as he finally lets out all the anxiety and fear that’s been burning in him for the past couple of months. It’s not as good as if it were one of his parents, but it’s what he needs. “H-He won’t leave me alone,” he whispers once he’s calmed down some.

“Who?”

He sniffles, grimacing at the amount of snot on his face. “My ex. I broke up with hi-him and he didn’t take it too well?”

Slider’s arms tighten around him. “Has he hurt you?”

“No, I mean he grabbed me earlier bu-but he hasn’t hit me or anything.”

The alpha lets out a long breath and picks Jake up, carrying him over to his bed and sitting them both down on the end, Slider keeps his arm wrapped around Jake so he’s pressed in close to his uncle. “He showed up here earlier, didn’t he? That’s what those scuff marks on the door are.”

He nods. “H-he’s been following me an-and he won’t stop texting or calling. If I tell him I don’t want to see him anymore he gets really angry. H-he’s getting worse, Uncle Sli, I-I don’t know what to do.”

Slider runs a hand through Jake’s hair. “You’re going to pack a bag and come stay at my place. I don’t want you staying here alone while both Ice and Mav are gone. You’re going to leave your car here and use my spare Ford until I’m sure he hasn’t fucked with your breaks or something.”

His breath catches in his throat. He hadn’t even thought of Matt doing that.

“Then I’m going to get this guy off your back, okay?”

Jake takes a slow breath and nods.

“Good, start packing, I’m going to check the rest of the house is locked up then we’re going straight to my place. I’ve got the extra cage set up at my place still so we’ll pick Hermia up in the morning and bring her right over, okay?”

He nods, too exhausted to argue. After they’ve packed a few of his things and Slider double-checks all the locks, they head out the back door and take the pathway that leads between all the pack’s houses. Slider is the one on the very end, and he quickly ushers Jake into the house and locks the door behind him. “Food’s on the counter. When’s the last time you ate?”

Jake shrugs. “‘M not really hungry.”

“Well tough, you’re eating something.” He takes Jake’s bag and sets it by the stairs to go up later, then he all but forces the blonde into a seat. “I take it you haven’t had anything real to eat since this started.”

He only shrugs again.

Slider shakes his head but doesn’t push. “Alright, so here’s what we’re going to do. You’re going to finish eating, go upstairs and shower, and we’re going to camp out together. Tomorrow I’m going to drive you to and from base and I’ll figure out what to do about this Matt guy. I’m going to see about getting through to Ice and—”

“No! Please don’t call him!”

“Jake—”

“Please, Uncle Sli, do-don’t make me tell him what happened. I messed up going out with this guy. Please, Pops will be so disappointed in me.”

“No he won’t, Jake, hey come on.” He pulls out the chair next to his nephew and pulls the boy into his arms. “He could never be disappointed in you for something like this. Ice loves you more than anything in this world.”

Jake whimpers and hides his face in Slider’s shoulder. “Pl-please just don-don’t tell him. H-He can’t get back for another month anyway, please.”

Slider sighs, running a hand up and down Jake’s back to calm him down. “Alright, I won’t tell him as long as we get this guy to back off. If he shows up again, if he calls you, texts you, or sends a Goddamned carrier pigeon you need to tell me right away. Otherwise, I’m going to tell both your parents.”

Jake nods, his tears sliding down his cheeks. “Promise.”

_____

Come out back.

Jake frowns down at his phone, glasses perched on his nose and his book in his lap. He still has another month and a half of medical leave but his body is stronger and he’s able to do more on his own. The stitches are still there but the skin has begun knitting itself back together, no longer angry and ugly looking. Well, to Jake it’s still ugly but it doesn't look like he’s fresh off the operating table now.

The squadron’s leave ended a couple of weeks ago and they’ve officially begun training and teaching at Top Gun. There’s going to be a huge airshow not long after Jake gets back from leave to introduce them to the brass and other important officials while also announcing Pete’s promotion to Admiral. It’s been mostly quiet recently.

Quiet enough that Jake told the squad (sort of begged them really) to take a night at the Hard Deck. He loves having them all around but he’s needed a night to himself and he knows they’ve been itching for a night out. He’s not physically ready for the Hard Deck right now but he’d wanted them all to go out and have fun without worrying about him.

Which is why this text message from Bob is so surprising. It’s only nine o’clock, they should all still be out.

It takes him a minute to drag himself out of the warm cocoon of blankets from his nest but he manages it, despite the desire to climb back into bed. Jake slips on a pair of sandals and Bob’s hoodie before making his way down the stairs. His parents are home, Tom working in his office to catch up on a few things he missed and Pete and Beau in the garage working on a new project car. Beau’s doing most of the heavy lifting since Pete is still recovering from his ejections, but they’re having a good time with it.

He’s not expecting the trail of tea lights to be lining the steps and little stone path to their beach access. Bob’s not anywhere to be seen but he’d clearly been there.

Jake follows the trail of lights all the way down the porch and out the back gate to the beach.

The candles continue across the sand, the way packed down by planks of wood that hadn’t been there the last time Beau snuck him down to the beach for a bit every now and again. The wood’s secured, Jake’s not sure how, but the path leads him directly to the house next door. The one that had just been bought by some mystery buyer.

It’s being redone and the last he heard is that the place is no longer considered a hazard. There’s construction equipment everywhere that the candle-lit path easily avoids. “Bob?” he calls. Why would he be leading Jake out here?

The left side of the house is where the yard is, instead of around the back like his parents or Bradley’s. It’s larger than the other two houses with plenty of room for a garden and backyard parties. He’s always wondered what happened to the people that owned the place.

When he finally enters the yard area, he finds Bob standing in the middle of the beginnings of landscaping material. “Bobby?” he asks.

The alpha grins at him, his entire face lighting up as he walks over to meet Jake halfway, wrapping his arms around the omega’s waist he pulls the omega in close. “I was going to wait until everything was a little further along but I was too excited to show you.”

“You bought this place?” He leans into Bob’s arms, his eyes trailing over every inch of the yard. “But why?”

“Because I know how much you love being near your family, I couldn’t imagine taking you too far from them.”

They’d talked about it while he’d been in the hospital. After an official courting has been completed and accepted, the “dating” phase really isn’t all that long for most. Back in the Victorian era, couples would mate less than a month after being together. Discussing moving in together wasn’t all odd, it’d only been put on the back burner because of Jake’s recovery and their uncertainty of where Bob would end up.

But now the Daggars are an official squadron and they’re all permanently stationed in Miramar.

Jake’s eyes burn and he tucks his forehead against Bob’s shoulder to hide his tears. “Ho-how can you afford this?”

“My mom. She left me a trust with instructions to use the money for my future mate and pups. I can’t think of a better way than to build our home.”

Jake sniffs, unable to keep his tears back now. “I want to help.”

“Sunshine, you don’t have to worry I have money—”

“So do I.” He pulls back to look at his alpha. “After we figured out what was wrong with my heart when I was a pup, my parents sued the hospital and doctor that kept sending us away. All that money is sitting in a trust and some stocks, I only used some of it when I went for my doctorate. My parents never touched it, they couldn’t if they wanted to. I want to help build our future.”

Bob grins, his thumb coming up to wipe the tears off Jake’s cheeks. “Okay, come look at the blueprints. There’s some stuff that I couldn’t change because of the structure but the contractors my dad hired can basically do anything.”

Bob spends the next hour going over each inch of the house with him. It’ll have five bedrooms, a large home office for him and Jake to share, and a finished basement that can be converted into a sort of separate apartment suite if they want to or just keep it for pack nights. The back of the house will have a little sunroom where they can sit and relax. Bob even has a spot for an outside shower put in so Jake and anyone else can rinse off after being in the ocean. The garden though, that he leaves for Jake to completely decide on.

Jake doesn’t change much except to switch the home library from the back of the house to the front and to move around the kitchen set up a little. “The hook-ups haven’t gone in yet,” Bob says, “we still have time to move things, I was also thinking—” he’s cut off when Jake shivers against his sides. He smiles and kisses Jake’s cheek. “We can look at this more tomorrow with the contractor.”

“Okay.” He leans his head against Bob’s shoulder, fighting down the yawn that wants to come out. “Come to bed with me?”

Scratching his fingers through Jake’s hair, Bob kisses his forehead. “I’ll walk you back but I have to clean up the candles.”

Jake doesn’t pout but it’s a near thing. He knows he’s seconds from falling asleep and he wants Bob with him when he does.

“I won’t be long, I promise.”

Bob walks him back across the beach, explaining how he paid a few of the construction crew members to get the wood down so Jake could safely walk across the sand. While his chest has healed a lot, he still has a ways to go before his doctors want him walking on the sand or anywhere near the ocean. The stitches will come out in another two weeks and he’ll, hopefully, be cleared to go back to work for another four. Jake’s mostly hoping he’ll be allowed to go in the water. He doesn’t even have to be cleared for surfing, he just wants to be able to swim and feel the ocean beyond his knees again.

Not that Dr. Altman needs to know that he’s been in the water at all right now but that’s beside the point.

Bob kisses his cheek once they reach the back porch. “I’ll be quick.”

“Are you sure you don’t want me to help?”

“I got it, you go ahead and get inside.”

After another minute, he steps into the house. His mind’s racing with their plans for the future, a future Jake wasn't sure he was going to have much of not that long ago, but now he’s got an alpha who wants to spend the rest of his life with him. It almost seems too good to be true.

Jake turns away from the backdoor only to come face to face with his mother leaning against the counter with a pint of mint chocolate chip ice cream in his hands. “So,” Pete says, pulling the spoon from his mouth with a pop, “what’s with the candles?”

He covers his face with one hand. “How long have you been standing there?”

Pete shrugs and slurps up another scoop of ice cream. “Long enough to hear you two talking about plans to finish the house next door over the next year.”

That means that Beau might have heard about it and that means Tom will find out. He is not ready for that conversation. “Ma, please let me tell Pops.”

Pete chuckles and puts the lid on the ice cream before stowing it back in the freezer. “Don’t worry, we already knew about Bob’s plan.”

He blinks. “What?”

“Who do you think told him you want two orange trees in the yard?”

Jake’s eyes widened, he thought Bob just figured he’d want an orange tree because of how much he likes them. “How long have you guys known?”

“Since the contractors first showed up. We saw Bob out there directing them and pried it out of him. It’s not too much, is it?”

“I…” he glances out the backdoor. “No, I really want this with him.”

Pete smiles. “Good, because I can always help you figure out the best way out of it if you need me to.”

Chapter 2: Relearning to Fly

Summary:

“So, how is Tempest working out?” Jake asks from his spot at the counter. 

Notes:

I'm sleepy but happy with this chapter. I hope you all like it!

“So, how is Tempest working out?” Jake asks from his spot at the counter. 

Beau grimaces and passes the carrots and a knife to the blond to start chopping. “He’s behaving but he clearly doesn’t like taking orders from anyone. He hasn’t made a problem for me and Warlock but Captain Drakken has already issued multiple warnings and is considering disciplinary action.”

Drakken is the captain of the S&R teams based in Miramar. When a new instructor starts at Top Gun, they go on multiple runs with the team to see how they operate in the event a student needs them to pay attention. Jake went on a few when he first started and Drakken is probably one of the chillest captains he’s ever met. For Tempest to be grating on his nerves means he’s really pushing it. “Not enough for you to intervene though.”

Beau shakes his head. “Not yet. I suspect that when Fanboy gets in for his position, we’ll start to see more issues. Even more so when Pete starts back. Not that I want them to deal with any of that bigotry but…”

“Yeah, he and his father both have their heads shoved so far up their asses.” Pete will be starting on light instructional-only based duty in two weeks. He won’t be allowed to fly until Dr. Torres clears him completely, but he’s already itching to get back to work. There’s only so much he and Jake can do together during the day since both their hobbies are physical based. Jake at least has made a decent dent in the pile of books he’s been meaning to read.

They work in silence for a bit, chopping the vegetables and preparing the meat for the stew Beau decided to make for dinner. He’s taken to coming home during his lunch breaks when he can check in on both Jake and Pete. Tonight’s his night to make dinner for the gaggle of pilots and WSOs that will end up back at the house. Stew is one of the easiest things to make and can feed a lot of people. Jake likes being able to cook with his parents since each of them has different things to make. Last night was spaghetti and meatballs with homemade garlic bread that he and Pete had gotten up early to start the sauce and they’d spent most of the day making the pasta by hand too.

“So, I was talking to Tom and he said if you want you can head to North Island with him after your leave is up. They’re working on bringing in some of the fifth-gens so having your help would be appreciated for a bit since the Daggers will be the first squadron to fully utilize them.”

Jake puts the bowl of carrots to the side once he finishes the last one and grabs the bag of potatoes. “Are you saying that because you think it will actually be helpful or because you want to keep me away from Tempest?”

Beau doesn’t look up from the cubes of beef he’s cutting. He could have bought the pre-cut stuff but he’s one of those people that likes to go to the butcher and select the meat and prep it himself. “I just don’t want to put you in an uncomfortable position.”

Jake stares at the potatoes, there’s a ton that needs to be cut up but it won’t take them long to get through the bag. “I need to face him. He felt comfortable doing and saying the things he did because his father was protecting him. I…it’ll be different this time because I know you and Warlock will have my back and so will the entire squad.” He and Bradley are sharing an office, with him being named Commander and second to Maverick he’s entitled to one but all the office space has been taken up so Jake offered his space for now until they’re able to clear a space. If Tempest were to even try and come there to bother Jake then Bradley won’t have any of it. “I want to come back to Top Gun.”

Beau stares at him for a long minute before finally nodding. “Okay, but if you need to leave or you want to go to North Island just say the word.”

“I will, I promise.”

“Good.” He adds half the beef into the broth already simmering on the stove. Then he adds half of the vegetables they’ve already cut up in.

“Why are you only putting half in?” Jake asks as he moves on to the third potato.

“So it mixes better. It was something my dad did when he made this. Evens out the vegetable to protein ratio.”

Jake snorts. “You’re a nerd, Dad.”

Beau doesn’t even blink as he grabs his own spud to cut. “Says the guy who refuses to use store-bought cookie dough mix because it tastes like dust.”

“Well, it does!”

“Yeah yeah, now finish that up so we can get it in the pot.”

They work in silence again for a while, the only sound coming from the bubbling pot on the stove.

“Dad,” Jake asks, “you won’t…I want to come back to Top Gun, but you won’t make me teach with him, will you?”

“Absolutely not. He’ll mostly be working with Bradley in the air and in the hangar with the planes. His skills aren’t up to par as an instructor.” He puts his knife down. “Jake, I’m not going to let you be alone in a room with him if I can help it. You or Fanboy for that matter.”

Jake can’t help but worry still. Tempest might be an ass but he’s a smart ass, and persistent. He’d barely managed to get away the first time and he’s sure Tempest would have followed had he not gone to the hangar to talk to some of the guys there. He’d been terrified for days after and stuck close to Bob as much as he could without making it too obvious.

“Jake, if you’re unsure may—”

“I’m not unsure about coming back, but that doesn’t mean I’m not nervous.” He passes the potatoes he finished over to Beau who adds them to the pot. “What does SECNAV say about him?”

“He’s in agreement with me, his actions are unbecoming but until he does something we can’t intervene. I’m kind of hoping he’ll steal a jet and take it for a joyride because that is worthy of a court martial.”

Jake laughs. “Dad, how are you going to justify that when you let Ma and Bradley get off without any punishment.”

Beau points a knife at him. “That was SECNAV, not me, which means I don’t have to justify anything, besides that was somewhat within reason. They were proving the mission could be flown a specific way. If Tempest took it for a joyride then he would not get a pass.” He puts the rest of the potatoes into the pot and drops the knife into the sink.

“I can clean up so you can get back to base,” Jake says.

Beau washes his hands. “Alright, but just wash the dishes, Jake, I’ll put them away when I get home.”

“Will do.”

Beau dries his hands on one of the tea towels. “When is your appointment to get the stitches out?”

“Next week on Wednesday.” Which he can’t wait for. His incision is healed and he’s a hell of a lot stronger, most of what he’ll be doing over his last two weeks is working with a physical therapist to help regain his strength. He found one who works with surfers after accidents too and the guy has already started helping him work on some exercises for his arms. Jake can’t wait to get back in the water, he can’t go in when the waves are too rough until his chest has had more time to get used to pressure being applied to it.

“Tom or I are going to try and get off. Pete won’t be able to since he’s just started back and in a new role, but you won’t be going alone.”

Jake grabs the cutting board from where he left it. “You don’t have to. I can go on my own.”

Beau gives him the same look he gives Pete when the older omega says he’s fine after moving around too much. He wraps an arm around Jake’s shoulder and kisses his temple. “I should be home around four if your mom asks. Keep the stove on low and mix it occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom.”

“Sir, yes, Sir!”

_____

His appointment to see Dr. Altman so he can get his stitches out is in the middle of the day, but Bradley is the one who manages to get the time to take Jake. He said he could go on his own but everyone had vehemently argued it. Jake has had at least one person with him for each of his checkups, usually Bob or Pete.

So now two months post surgery he’s sitting in the Bronco’s passenger seat on the way to the doctor’s office with Bradley loudly singing along to the oldies playlist he’s got on shuffle. “You know I could have come on my own,” he says.

“No you couldn’t have.”

Jake shoots him a look. “Excuse me?”

“Well, physically you could have made it there and back, but I know you, J.T., you would take one look at your scar and spiral.”

His mouth snaps shut and his fingers dig into his knee. “You don’t get it.”

“No, Jake, come on, don’t say that. I get not liking it because it reminds you of everything that you went through but—”

“It’s a reminder of all the people who wanted the gory details of how I suffered. People are either disgusted by it or they’re too interested in asking me about it. It’s not even something I can avoid because it’s directly in the middle of my chest for everyone to see. I hate this thing. I hate how big it is and how obvious it is whenever I take my shirt off. You know it still hurts sometimes, even before this recent surgery. I’d move one way and the skin would pull and it would just ache and remind me that it’s there.”

“Jake—”

“Did you know they call it a zipper scar? I’ve had it opened and closed so many times it’s never going to fade away. Dr. Altman told me I’ll probably have some residual pain sensation from it since they had to convert from laparoscopic to open-heart surgery. It’s not fair that I—”

“No, it’s not fair that you have to deal with this. Any of it.” They pull into the parking lot and Bradley throws the Bronco into park and twists so he can look at the blond. “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry that you had to deal with this as a pup and all over again, I’m sorry I wasn’t there the first time around. I should have been because I would have knocked a few heads together to keep you from feeling like this.”

Jake snorts, remembering just how protective his big brother could be when they were younger. He wipes the tears escaping his eyes. “It’s not that easy.”

“Maybe not but if punching someone’s lights out makes you feel better I’ll do it.”

He laughs. “I don’t think Dr. Charles would approve of that.”

Bradley shrugs and turns the car off. “Eh, what he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. Now come on, let's get those stitches out because I plan on throwing you into the ocean this weekend.”

They head inside, and the receptionist immediately recognizes Jake and gets him all checked in without the usual questions. She’s the same one who’s been there since Jake started seeing Dr. Altman, she always makes him for the best time she can with his schedule and gives him a heads-up whenever the doctor will be out of the office for an extended period of time in case he has any problems.

It’s not long before he’s being ushered back and put through all the usual tests with the techs. Bradley’s never been to an appointment with him, not because he didn’t want to go but because it was easier for Pete or Bob to be the ones to take him. Bob being a lieutenant didn’t have the responsibilities Bradley does now that he’s a commander and Pete having been home on medical leave as well meant he didn’t have too much to do while he was home.

Every question the alpha asks has Jake annoyed but the woman helping them only takes it in stride and immediately answers with no issues.

By the time they’re in the exam room, the omega’s had his blood pressure taken, an EKG, and a few cognitive tests done. Jake’s perched on an exam table with a hoodie over his shoulders. Bradley’s got his T-shirt for now since it’ll just have to come off later while Dr. Altman is taking the stitches out.

“You okay, J.T.?” Bradley asks.

He nods, avoiding looking in the mirror that just so happens to be right across from where he’s sitting. “Yeah, just can’t wait to get these things out. They itch like crazy.”

Bradley grins, moving to stand directly in front of the mirror to block Jake’s reflection. “Like I said, as soon as the doc says you're all good I’m throwing you into the water like a log.”

“Just don’t do it in front of Pops. I swear he became even more protective after I got the transplant.”

“Well, yeah, Squirt, you had your chest cut into and Pops couldn’t do a thing but sit there. With you home and safe that’s where he wanted to keep you. I don’t know what I’d do if it were me in his shoes.”

Before Jake can consider answering, the door opens and Dr. Altman comes in, her blond hair in a tight ponytail and a pleased smile on her face. “Good news, your numbers are looking really good today, Jake. I’m very happy with where you're at.”

“Does that mean I can go back to work sooner?” he asks hopefully.

“No.” She grins at the pout he displays. “But it does mean I’m comfortable clearing you to go into the ocean and for you to start some moderate exercise.”

Bradley grins. “Does that include surfing?” They’d been talking about going out together again like they did when they were pups. Neither of them really knows how the other is anymore and it was one of the things they love to do together.

“I’d hold off on that for a bit longer.” She turns her look to Jake. “If you’re still feeling like you pulled a muscle in your chest, I don’t want you doing something that could end up causing you to backtrack. Now let’s get those stitches out.”

She washes her hands in the sink before pulling on a pair of gloves. Jake lays back with his sweatshirt unzipped so she can work. “Hey Doc, when am I going to be able to go back on suppressants?”

She cuts the first stitch, pulling the thread free and tossing it into the metal bowl at her side. “Unfortunately, I don’t think suppressants are going to be a safe option for you any longer, Jake. The normal risks associated with them are even greater for you now that you’ve had such a strong reaction.”

“But that means…”

“You’re going to be having regular heats every three months, yes. We can consider a birth control option after you’ve had at least two normal cycles but other than a low grade-blocker and scent patches, I’m not willing to risk your health further.”

“Doc, will that be enough for his job?” Bradley asks. “The military requires us all to be on suppressants.”

“Yes, they will allow a civilian to work as a contractor so long as you keep up with your blockers and wear the appropriate patches.” Three more stitches are removed. “You’re not the only military employee I see, Jake.”

“I just…doc, I’ve been on suppressants since my first heat. I-I was never able to go off them for a long period of time before and—”

“And you will be fine. You’ll just have to get used to how your body handles going…all natural.”

Bradley grabs Jake’s hand when he notices it shaking. “Do you have an idea of when he may experience his next heat?”

She pulls out the last stitch, carefully examining the healed incision for anything that shouldn’t be there. “I would expect it within the next couple of months. Similar to how your body reacted after your transplant.”

Jake nods, not sure if he can speak without crying. He’s not ready for a heat, the only person he wants to spend one with is Bob but he’s not sure he’s ready for that. Not when he’ll be so out of his mind with hormones and not able to really be in the moment with the alpha.

“Alright, everything is looking good. Let’s get you cleaned up and set up for another check-up in about three months. As long as your bloodwork continues to come back normal we can discuss the birth control further.”

Bradley sets his appointment up for him while Jake follows silently, his mind racing with everything he’s just learned. What is he going to do now? He really doesn’t want to go into heat, not when everything is still so fresh and not when he doesn’t even know if Bob wants to help him through one. Fuck, Jake doesn’t think he’d handle a rejection like that too well right now if Bob told him no.

“Hey come, J.T., it’s going to be fine. You’re at Top Gun most of the time, you won’t be secluded on a ship with a bunch of alphas scent spraying, it’s going to be fine.” Bradley wraps an arm around his shoulders and pulls him close.

Jake doesn’t know how to tell him that’s the least of his worries right now. That his fear and anxiety of what will happen after his heat is what terrifies him.

And what about Matt? Jake hasn’t heard a peep out of him but he knows Agent DiNozzo is still looking for the man. Is it safe for him to be without suppressants with Matt still lingering on the outside?

_____

When Bob gets back, most of the pack is already in the kitchen helping Mav and Ice get the food ready. He doesn’t see Jake or Hermia anywhere so he makes his way for the stairs instead of joining everyone. “Jake? Sunshine, are you home?” He knocks lightly on the bedroom door before pushing it open.

Jake’s there, curled up in his nest with Hermia whistling happily perched on his chest whistling up at him. His eyes look red from crying and his honey and orange blossom scent has the acidic notes of unease curled in them. It immediately has Bob’s alpha sitting up at attention.  “Sunshine, did something happen?”

Jake blinks up at him, he’s not crying any longer but the anxiety is clear. Bob removes his jacket and shoes before joining his omega. He wraps an arm around Jake’s waist and kisses his cheek. “Come on, Sunshine, talk to me.”

The omega makes a soft sound in the back of his throat before shuffling closer, tucking his head beneath Bob’s chin. Hermia flutters up to the headboard with a displeased twitter before resuming her whistling. “Dr. Altman wo-won’t let me go ba-back on suppressants, she’s worried it-it’ll cause me to have more problems. I-I’ll only be able to be on some blockers an-and scent patches.”

Bob’s arm tightens around his omega. “Okay, that’s not terrible, you know your dad will watch out for you. You’ve already got air filters in your office, we can have some put in your classroom and the ready room.”

An omega’s nose is the most sensitive of all the dynamics. Suppressants do more than just keep the body from going into a rut or a heat, they dull the sense of smell from bright colors to something more muted. It’ll make Jake much more susceptible to pheromone attacks from alphas if someone were to try it. With Tempest at Top Gun, that threat is much more likely to happen.

“I-I’m als-also going t-to have a heat soon, sh-she doesn’t wan-want to put me on a birth control un-until I’ve gone through two hea-heats.”

The primal part of Bob, the park that is irrevocably in love with Jake Kazanky-Mitchell, burns with the desire to be with the omega during his heat whenever it may happen. The rational side of him that knows that Jake may not be ready for that wins out though. “Okay, that’s okay, Sunshine. Do you want me to talk to Fanboy for you?”

“I-I want to spend it with you,” Jake whispers, tucking his face into Bob’s neck.

And fuck, Bob is only human. He twists them a bit, pressing Jake into the bottom of his nest and breathing in Jake’s scent from the gland on his neck. “Sunshine…fuck, Baby I’d love to spend it with you if that’s what you want.”

Jake’s arms wrap around his neck and he presses his body up against Bob’s, a sweet little whimper sounding in his throat. “I-I do-don’t wan-want our first ti-time to be during my heat. I-I want to remember it all but I don’t…”

“Don’t what, Sunshine, it’s okay.”

“I don’t…I don’t want ou-our relationship to be al-all about sex. I-I don’t want yo-you to leave after.”

Bob closes his eyes, forcing himself to relax, before he shifts into a sitting position, pulling Jake up and into his lap so his legs are on either side of the alpha’s waist. “Do you know the moment I fell in love with you?”

The omega shakes his head, his pretty green eyes wide as he looks down at Bob.

“It was the second day of class, I got there early and you were already there working. Your hair was all over the place and you had your glasses perched on your nose,” he can’t help but lean up and kiss the tip of Jake’s nose, delighting at the blush that blooms across his cheeks, “you looked so beautiful. That was the first moment that I realized I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you. Your letters to me, while I was deployed, were some of the only solace I had in Afghanistan. I was convinced you were with Coyote but that didn’t stop me from loving you. So please believe me when I tell you that I’m not going anywhere. You’re all I want.”

Jake curls close, his head dropping onto Bob’s shoulder. “I-I’m so used to being tossed away after.”

A growl bubbles in his throat but he forces it down. He wishes he could find those bastards who made Jake feel this way like he doesn’t deserve to be treated like he’s special or someone to be kept because that’s all Bob wants. To keep his Jake in his arms every moment of every day. “I love you, Jake, if you want me to sit outside your room while you spend your heat alone I’ll do that. I’ll sit on the floor the entire week and not move.” He wraps one arm around Jake’s waist and his other hand runs up the omega’s spine until it rests against the back of his neck. Jake shudders against him, a whine sounding in his throat and his body trembling against Bob’s. “But, fuck, Jake, I’d love to spend it with you making you feel good.”

“We haven’t even been on a date.”

Bob smiles. “Well, I promised you we’d go on one as soon as your stitches came out, and they’re out now.”

Notes:

I just love Bob being madly in love with Jake.

Chapter 3: From the Nest to the Skies

Notes:

I hope you all enjoy this as much as I enjoyed writing it!

“So, are you going to spend your heat with Bob?” Mickey asks from Jake’s bed. The other omega is helping him pick an outfit for his date with the alpha since he, and the entire pack apparently, know where they’re going.

Jake tried all week to get someone to give him a hint but no one would budge. “I want to, but I don’t want that to be our first time. I don’t always remember my heats and if I do it’s only in parts.”

Mickey hums. “Yeah, and it’ll probably be worse now since you won’t even have the suppressants to help. That one! The green matches your eyes.”

Jake looks down at the shirt he’s got on, it’s a simple soft green button-up V-neck. He’s had it for years and it clings to him in just the right way that it accentuates his waist. Paired with some light-washed jeans it looks pretty good for a casual date.

The problem makes itself known when he catches a glimpse of himself in the mirror. During surgery, they cut along the original scar but they’d needed to make it slightly larger which means about half an inch of it is poking over the neckline of the shirt. The sight of it makes his stomach churn in anxious waves. “Uh-n-no, I should find something else.”

“Oh no you don’t.” Mickey grabs his arm and pushes him until he’s sitting on the bed. “You look good, Goldie. You are not hiding yourself in something else just because a little bit of your scar is visible.”

“You don’t—”

“I do understand.” He grabs the blond’s shoulders and all but shakes him to keep his attention. “You’re not the only one with a big scar, Jake. You’ve gone to the VA with me, you’ve seen what some of those guys come back with.”

“That’s different. They got their injuries fighting for their lives and the lives of their friends. I got mine–”

“Fighting for your life. Just because you didn’t get shot down over enemy territory or captured by terrorists does not mean you didn’t fight for your right to keep living. This scar might be big but it reminds people that you're here. Those guys you were with before and the assholes that didn’t defend you were children who couldn’t get past their own egos.”

“Mickey…I..I don’t think—”

“Wear the shirt or I’m telling Mav, Penny, and Wolf you're getting all self-deprecating again.”

Jake’s head snaps up and his eyes are as wide as saucers. “Mickey! You wouldn’t.”

He grins and opens the bedroom door. “Hey, Mav! You got a minute?”

Pete’s voice floats up the steps. “Yeah! Be right up.”

Jake springs up. “Okay okay, I’ll wear the shirt! Don’t tell him, I’ll get the lecture of the century!”

Pete pokes his head in. “Everything okay?”

“Yeah, was just wondering what you think of this outfit for his date tonight,” Mickey says.

Jake breathes a sigh of relief but he can’t help being nervous now as his mother all but examines every inch of him. He knows Pete isn’t just looking over his clothing choice, all three of his parents have been watching his every move since he got him. Beau has been the most tame of them, the occasional times the alpha was able to sneak him down to the beach were great, but he’s still overprotective as hell.

Pete smiles at him. “You look good, Sweetheart, I’ve always liked that shirt on you.”

He laughs a little. “You say that because you bought it.”

Pete shrugs. “Well I have good taste.” He adjusts the collar of the shirt. “I can’t believe you’re going on your first date!”

His face flames up and Mickey practically falls over laughing. “Mom! This is not my first date.”

“You’re first real date, then. I know about some of those alphas you’ve been with, a ‘nice drive’ isn’t a date.”

Jake tries not to shrink into himself. “You…uh...you know about them?”

“I may have done some digging after we found out about Bennion. I wasn’t going to let some other asshole come out of the woodwork.” He pokes Jake’s shoulder. “And we will be discussing that little test you took in a CVS bathroom.”

He’s going to die of embarrassment. “You know about that?”

“I know everything.” The look on his softens when he sees how pale Jake’s gotten. “I’m not upset with you, I just want to talk about it.”

“Do Pops and Dad know?”

Pete brushes some lint off Jake’s shoulder. “No, and I won’t tell them because it’s not something they need to know about. Now finish getting ready, Bob’s going to be here soon.”

“Isn’t he staying here?” Mickey asks.

“He said he had to set something up before he picked Jake up. And before you ask,” he adds when Jake opens his mouth, “no I don’t know what it is he’s setting up and no I won’t tell you where he’s taking you.”

Jake sighs. “Fine, I guess I’ll just be surprised.”

Pete shakes his head and heads out the door. “Patience is a virtue, Jacob.”

“Says the man who regularly races his mate on his way home from work,” Jake mutters, as he drops on the bed next to Mickey. “Seriously, some of my childhood was spent hanging out of the window watching Ma race by on his Harley.”

Mickey grins and sits up. “So, what was Mav talking about a CVS bathroom?”

He winces and looks down at the floor. “I…uh…I may have thought I was pregnant a couple of years ago. I bought some tests and immediately took them in the bathroom.”

“Wait!” He swings his legs around so he’s facing Jake. “That’s around the time you stopped going out with all those alphas.”

His cheeks darken. “Yeah, I figured I couldn’t keep going like that unless I did want to end up a single mother. Plus, that was around the time we were becoming close and I just…”

“Didn’t feel like you had to keep going out looking for that connection,” Mickey finishes. It’s not uncommon for omegas with no pack members their own age to begin reaching out for other connections. Jake being in college with a bunch of hormonal alphas was basically a recipe for disaster. Javy was probably the first alpha who genuinely wanted to be friends with Jake and wasn’t looking for more than that.

“When the tests came back negative, I needed to be positive so I called and asked Dr. Altman to add a pregnancy test to my routine blood work panel. Pops was going with me but she didn’t bring it up until after the appointment when it was just her and I.”

Mickey throws his arms around Jake and holds him tight. “Well, I’m glad that it turned out that way, but for the record, you’ll make an awesome mother whenever you're ready for it.”

Jake laughs. “Thanks, Mickey.”

The other omega leans back. “This wasn’t with a student, was it?”

“Oh God no, I was not going to pull that shit. No, this was a Midshipman who was shipping out the next day. We were both lonely, I guess. I’ve run into him a couple of times since, I think he would have stepped up if I did end up carrying his pup but we wouldn’t have gone further than that.”

“You know, I’m kind of disappointed I don’t get to spoil a little rugrat.” He shoves Jake’s shoulder. “You and Bob should get on that.”

He bursts out laughing. “Sure, Mickey, we’ll get right on that.” His body won’t be able to handle a pregnancy right now. Not for at least a year so his body can have time to accommodate the most recent surgery. Jake also already knows that when he is ready, it’ll be difficult for him no matter what because of all the strain his body has already gone through but it won’t be impossible.

Mickey looks at his phone. “Come on, Bob’s going to be here any second.”

When they get downstairs, the only people present are his parents. None of their pack is around which is extremely odd considering at least three of them have always been here when they’re not working. He’s a little relieved by it, having their entire packs around while he goes on a date with Bob does not sound appealing, but on the other hand, it makes him extremely suspicious that at least Bradley and Javy aren’t hanging around.

_____

"You're not taking my car to spy on your brother and Bob while they're on a date," Phoenix says.

"It's not spying," Bradley insists.

"Yeah, Matt Bennion is still out there causing problems," Javy adds, "it's more like..."

"Like looking out for them?" Callie interjects with a mischievous grin.

"Exactly!" Bradley exclaims. "Bob told us where he's taking Jake. There's no way he's not expecting us to show up."

Phoenix rolls her eyes. "He told you because if he didn't, you would follow them to figure out where they're going."

"Oh, come on, Nix," Yale chimes in from the couch, "it's not like they're going to be spying on Bob because they don't think he's good enough for Jake."

She leans around to glare at the beta, who merely gives her a bright grin. She then looks back at the two in front of her. "Do you know how Jake will feel if he spots you? He's looking forward to this, and if he sees you there, he's going to feel like he's being watched and—"

"I know!" Bradley snaps. "We don't want to spy on them. Jake and Bob don't need that. But I can't shake the feeling that Bennion is out there. He's already gotten to Jake once; it's luck he didn't get away with him."

"We want them to have fun," Javy adds. "They both deserve it, which is why we want to go. We can watch their backs, and they can just have fun together."

"They won't even know we're there," Callie reassures.

Phoenix sighs and pinches the bridge of her nose. "This is a bad idea."

"We could all go!" Fritz suggests. "We'll keep Coyote and Rooster in line, and there will be more eyes to make sure nothing happens."

Callie gets up and wraps her arms around Phoenix's waist. "Come on, it's not a terrible idea when you really think about it. This guy scares the shit out of Jake. I'm sure they'll both understand even if they do catch us."

Phoenix sighs again. "Fine, but you two," she points at Bradley and Javy, "are not to do anything ridiculous. If either of you get all protective alpha big brother on him, I will call Mav and have him rip into both of you."

"We promise!"

"Just in time too!" Omaha yells from the window. "Bob's just pulled up in a BMW."

Everyone runs for the windows, peeking out to spy on the house next door. Tom's on the porch talking to Bob. The alpha isn't dressed to the nines or anything, but he's gelled his hair and has on a nice-looking black polo shirt. Jake comes out a second later, and Bob's entire face goes from polite conversation to an ear-to-ear smile. The omega has a smaller but no less happy smile on his face; Pete and Mickey are both behind him.

A few words are exchanged between them before Bob and Jake head down the porch steps to the BMW. Bob even opens the door for Jake before heading around the car to get into the driver's seat.

"Okay, let's grab Mickey and go!" Callie grabs her purse. "Come on, people, we’re losing daylight!”

_____

“The aquarium?” Jake asks, a smile curving his lips.

Bob smiles at him. “Well, you said you never got the chance to go as a pup, there’s no way I could let that stand.”

With all the time Jake spent laid up in the hospital, they’d spent hours upon hours talking. It took a bit, but Bob eventually got Jake to open up a little about his childhood. There’d been a lot his parents and Bradley made sure he got to experience, but there’d been just as much he never got to do. Going to things like the Zoo and Aquarium were top of the list. There’d been a memorable time when Jake somehow convinced his parents to let him stay with Slider while they took Bradley to Disneyland and SeaWorld. Jake had felt so guilty because they’d wanted to cancel when Jake got sick, and he’s still not sure how he got them to let him stay with his uncle. Bradley made sure to bring him back a lanyard with some cool pins for him though, he still has it somewhere in his room.

Jake turns wise eyes to Bob. “You remembered that?”

Bob smiles and turns the car off. “I try to remember everything you tell me.”

___________________

Jake's anticipation bubbles over as they approach the entrance to the aquarium, the bright lights casting playful reflections on the glass doors. The scent of saltwater wafts through the air, mingling with the excited chatter of families and couples around them. He glances up at Bob, whose eyes sparkle with a mixture of amusement and fondness at the eagerness rolling off of Jake.

Entering the spacious lobby, Jake's gaze immediately gravitates toward the towering cylindrical tank that dominates the room. It's a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, teeming with tropical fish of all shapes and sizes. Bob chuckles at Jake's wide-eyed wonder.

"Where should we start?" Bob asks, his voice warm with enthusiasm.

Jake grins, his heart fluttering with excitement. God, he feels like he’s eight years old all over again. "Let's go see the jellyfish first!"

With Bob leading the way, they navigate through the aquarium's winding pathways, pausing at each exhibit to admire the inhabitants. The alpha keeps one arm around the omega the entire time, carefully keeping himself between Jake and everyone else without making it obvious what he’s doing.

At the jellyfish display, Jake stands mesmerized by the ethereal creatures pulsating gently in their illuminated tanks. Watching the swish and twirl around each other like a dance makes the smile on his face widen. Jellyfish and turtles have always been his favorite.

Bob leans closer, his breath warm against Jake's ear. "Did you know some jellyfish are practically immortal?" Bob murmurs, his voice a soothing rumble.

Jake turns to him, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Really? That's incredible."

Bob grins at him, a satisfied scent rolling off of him at how excited and happy his omega is. “There’s one species that can reverse its life-cycle and basically start their lives all over again.”

As they continue exploring, they share intriguing tidbits about the marine life they encounter—tales of intelligent octopuses, playful sea otters, and majestic sea turtles. Jake’s never met someone else who knows as many random facts about sea creatures before. He delights in every silly fact Bob spouts back at him while Jake throws out his own.

Their next stop is the touch pool, where Jake hesitantly dips his fingers into the shallow water, giggling when a small stingray brushes against his hand. He’d been hesitant at first when there’d been so many children around the pool but Bob had easily brought them over to a less crowded end of the pool.

Bob chuckles, enjoying Jake's infectious delight. "I think you've made a new friend," Bob teases, watching as Jake's eyes light up. There’s a hint of childish wonder in their green depths that makes the alpha feel a sense of accomplishment. He knows Iceman and Maverick did their best with the hand they were dealt, but he can’t help but feel robbed on Jake’s behalf for everything he missed out on growing up.

They pause for lunch at the aquarium's cafe, seated by a large window overlooking the seal exhibit. Bob can't help but admire Jake's radiant smile as they eat the overpriced sandwiches, the ocean stretching out beyond the glass.

After lunch, they venture into the tunnel-like underwater observatory, where sharks and rays glide gracefully overhead. Jake leans against the glass, his breath fogging it up slightly as he marvels at the sleek predators.

Bob stands beside him, their shoulders brushing. "Have you ever come up against one while surfing?"

Jake glances at him, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "A couple of times. They’re really pretty peaceful creatures, most of the time if they bite a human it’s misidentification before they take off again. They’ve never come near me.”

_____

Bradley and Javy peek around the corner of one of the larger tanks. Jake and Bob seem completely lost in their own world as they go from exhibit to exhibit.

“He looks happy,” Bradley says.

Javy nods. “Bob’s the first alpha who hasn’t left when it got hard for them.” He turns his head to look at the older alpha. “You think they know we’re here?”

“No way—” He stops talking and grabs Javy by the back of his shirt to yank him back when Bob looks directly at them. “Okay, Bob does.”

Phoenix shakes her head at them. “You two are idiots.” The rest of the squad is littered around the aquarium keeping their eyes out for any sign of Bennion showing up. “I have half a mind to tell Iceman what we’re up to.”

“He knows,” the two say at the same time.

She smacks her forehead. “Idiots.”

_____

The day passes in a blur of laughter and discovery. They pause at the giant kelp forest exhibit, where sunlight filters through the swaying fronds, casting a comforting glow over everything. Bob can't tear his gaze away from Jake, who seems to radiate joy amidst the marine wonders.

As the afternoon sun begins to dip, they find themselves in front of the grand finale—the massive ocean tank teeming with sharks, rays, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. Jake stands at the viewing window, his reflection blending with the mesmerizing aquatic world beyond.

"Thank you for today," Jake says softly, his gaze fixed on the underwater ballet unfolding before them.

Bob's heart swells with affection. "Anytime, Jake."

They linger until the aquarium's closing time, savoring the last moments of their underwater adventure, only leaving when the announcement for closing chimes overhead. As they exit into the cool evening air, Jake turns to Bob, a playful glint in his eyes.

"What's next on our list?" Jake asks, his smile as bright as the stars above.

Bob chuckles, already thinking of their next escapade together. "Spoilers, Sunshine. Just you wait" Jake pouts at him, the look making Bob smile wider as he leans in to kiss the omega’s cheek before tugging him through the gift shop to the exit.

Their hands brushing against each other with a gentle electricity, the excitement of the day lingering between them. The date has been perfect—a kaleidoscope of marine life shared laughs, and stolen glances.

Inside the gift shop, amidst the ocean-themed souvenirs, Jake’s gaze lingers on a fluffy otter plushie. He doesn’t say anything, but Bob notices the wistful look in his eyes. Without a word, Bob turns a little and catches Phoenix’s eye. He’s known his squadron has been discreetly tailing them all day. Truthfully he’s grateful for it, knowing they’re there watching their backs made it easy for Bob to focus completely on his Jake. She nods in understanding and swiftly secures the otter plush.

As they exit the shop, Jake is oblivious to this covert exchange. He smiles at Bob, a giddy feeling in his chest making him feel breathless. “Today’s been incredible,” he says, voice filled with genuine warmth.

Bob nods, his heart racing with excitement for what’s to come next. “Just wait, I’ve got one more surprise for you.”

He gets Jake into the car and drives a short distance to the final part of the date. Bob’s mind races with thoughts of the evening ahead. He’s planned this meticulously, wanting to make it unforgettable. It hadn’t been easy to get this cleared but it helps when your father is the former SECNAV.

They reach a secluded spot overlooking the ocean. Bob gestures towards a waiting helicopter—a stunning black bird adorned with a griffin emblem. Jake’s eyes widen in surprise.

“Are we...?” Jake starts, unable to contain his excitement.

Bob grins. “Buckle up, Goldie. We’re going flying.” Maverick had told him that Jake could fly their P-51 and a handful of other small planes, but he’s never been behind the controls of a helicopter. Maybe that’s something he can teach Jake later, for now, he’ll enjoy getting to fly his omega around to look at the sights.

Jake’s heart soars as they climb into the chopper. The engine roars to life, drowning out the world around them. As they ascend into the twilight sky, Jake leans closer to Bob, unable to hide his grin as he watches the passing scenery. The coastline unfolds beneath them, bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. The ocean stretches out endlessly, a canvas of shimmering gold. It’s probably the best experience he’s ever had.

Bob watches Jake’s expression, his heart swelling with affection. He’s wanted this for so long that it’s hard to believe that he finally gets to have this.

“This is incredible,” Jake exclaims, his eyes sparkling with wonder.

Bob smiles, reaching for the bag at his feet. He’s not sure how she managed to get it here before them, but he’s learned not to question his pilot in the short time they’ve been assigned together. “I got you something,” he says, handing over the gift bag.

Jake’s face lights up as he takes the soft toy in his hands, squeezing it and holding it close in his arms. “You...”

Bob nods, feeling a rush of joy. “I noticed. Thought it might make a good co-pilot for our flight.”

Jake laughs, the joyous sound filling like music to Bob’s ears. The helicopter banks over the ocean, the wind whipping through their hair. Jake leans against Bob, the otter nestled between them.

“Thank you,” Jake says softly, his gaze locked with Bob’s.

Bob’s heart skips a beat. “For what?”

“For today. For being the most caring alpha I’ve ever met. Just…thank you, for everything,” Jake replies, his voice filled with sincerity.

As they hover above the coastline, the lights of the city begin to twinkle below. Bob glances at Jake, his heart swelling with emotion. The helicopter arcs gracefully, tracing patterns against the darkening sky. Their fuel levels are at the halfway mark, they’ll have to go back soon but he can’t take his eyes off Jake.

As the helicopter banks towards the horizon, Bob leans in, his heart pounding with anticipation. Jake meets him halfway, their lips brushing against each other in a gentle, exhilarating kiss. This isn’t their first kiss, not even their second, but it feels just as new and wonderful at the first time Bob had kissed after his surgery.

The helicopter carries them into the night, leaving behind the worries and uncertainties of the day. Matt Bennion doesn’t exist for this one beautiful perfect day, all that’s lingering around them is what their future will hold.

Notes:

Yes yes yes, this was all sweet and sappy.

Who is ready for me to start throwing some curveballs at Jake? :)

Chapter 4: A Love Birds Nest

Summary:

Bob doesn’t bring them back to Jake’s house, instead, they pull up to a place closer to La Jolla Cove. It’s not up against the beach but there’s a little walkway that will take them down to it if they want to go down there. “Bobby?” Jake asks as he looks at the beautiful home.

Notes:

*throws an unintentionally smutty chapter at you* Have fuuuunnnnn!

Bob doesn’t bring them back to Jake’s house, instead, they pull up to a place closer to La Jolla Cove. It’s not up against the beach but there’s a little walkway that will take them down to it if they want to go down there. “Bobby?” Jake asks as he looks at the beautiful home.

“This is where my dad and I lived when he was helping Ice with his duties. I wasn’t happy about moving but I told him I’d only go if we lived close enough to the beach, this is what he found.” He turns the car off and gets out to open the other’s door. “After, Dad kept the place so we’d have somewhere to go for vacations and when we don’t use it he rents it out to other military families.”

Jake holds the otter close as he leans into Bob’s side. “And there’s no one staying here now?”

“Nope, Dad hasn’t rented it out since I got reassigned to Top Gun in case I wanted to stay here instead of in base accommodations.” The front door has a keypad instead of a traditional lock that Bob quickly types the code into.

“How come you didn’t?” Jake asks.

Bob flips the light on and holds the door open for Jake to come in. “Because staying on base kept me closer to you.” Bob's smile is gentle, a softness in his eyes that the omega is quickly coming to realize is reserved for him and him alone. "I wanted to be where I could get to you at a moment's notice. Besides,"

The interior of the house is modern yet cozy, with large windows that offer a view of the starlit sky and the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore. The living room is spacious, with a plush sofa facing a stone fireplace. Bob leads Jake to the couch, where they sit side by side, the otter plush between them.

"I know it's been a tough few months," Bob says, his voice barely above a whisper as he takes Jake's hand in his. "I know you have a lot of doubts still, and Matt is still out there, but I want you to know that I'm here for you, through recovery and beyond."

Jake feels a warmth spread through him, not just from Bob's hand, but from the words that carry so much weight. "I've never had anyone care for me like you do," he admits, his voice thick with emotion. His parents love him, but this is different. Jake’s never had anyone look at him the way Bob does.

Bob leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to Jake's forehead. "You deserve the world, Jake. And I'll do everything I can to give it to you."

They spend the evening talking, laughing, and enjoying each other's company, the worries of the world melting away within the safety of the walls around them. It doesn’t feel like he’s being watched and expected to drop at any second. It’s just them and the warmth this house provides them.

Bob puts a movie on, some comedy that makes them both laugh quietly with each other. Jake actually feels…normal. The night is so much like what stupid teen romances talk about and he actually got to forget about his stupid heart and Matt Bennion.

Jake turns his head to look up at the alpha’s face. He’s still so shocked that someone like Bob would want to take the time to be with him. He never feels stupid when he’s with Bob, or like a walking patient. He feels like he can be himself with Bob.

Taking a deep breath, Jake sits up and swings his leg over Bob’s lap, wrapping his arms around the alpha’s neck and leaning in to kiss him.

Bob’s hands grab his hips and he kisses Jake back with just as much enthusiasm. He pulls Jake closer when the omega grins down on his lap, a groan leaving him as his dick hardens in his jeans. “Fuck, baby, you feel good.” His hands tighten around Jake and he thrusts up into Jake. “We don’t have to, fuck, we don’t have to if you’re not ready.”

Jake whines and spreads his legs wide, anything to feel Bob’s cock against him. His own cock tightens and presses uncomfortably against the zipper of his jeans, his pussy throbbing as the scent of the two of them begins filling the room. “I want to,” Jake says, his skin beginning to tingle as Bob’s hands run across him. “I love you an-and I trust you.”

Bob curses, his hand running up Jake’s back beneath the omega’s skin. He leans forward, pressing kisses along Jake’s neck. “I love you too, so much.”

He gasps as the alpha sucks on a particularly sensitive spot on his neck. “Please, alpha, please, need to feel you inside me.” Jake knows he’s playing dirty when he whines and bares his neck, but he’s not ashamed especially when it gets a growl to bubble out of Bob’s throat.

The way Bob easily stands without dropping Jake makes the omega keen and the arousal in his belly grows at the display of strength. Bob is a soft-spoken alpha, unassuming to most, and it makes people forget he’s a Navy service member. Jake knows he’s done some training alongside SEALs before deciding on becoming a WSO. His work with the Screaming Eagles proves how formidable of an opponent he is.

Bob carries him to the bedroom and lays him across the large plush blankets. When Jake reaches for the alpha, Bob grabs his wrists and holds them down to the bed. “Stay,” he growls, “be good for me, Sunshine.”

Jake can’t help the gasp he lets out at the comments, his legs opening wide and his head tilting back to display his throat. Lips press against the vulnerable skin of his jugular, first  soft kiss then a bite. Jake whines, his hands gripping the sheets below him, and his legs coming up to wrap around Bob’s waist. When Mickey did this, it felt good, but this is so much different. Mickey is another omega, his teeth are blunt whereas Bob’s teeth are sharp. The alpha presses down, his tongue running over the sensitive skin and his teeth squeezing just enough. “Please,” he whines, “please alpha, I’ll be good.”

One of Bob’s hands runs across the skin on Jake’s stomach, blunt nails scraping the sensitive skin all the way to one of the omega's nipples. Jake keens as Bob twists and pinchs the sensitive bud, a satisfied rumble vibrating from the alpha’s chest as he keeps his teeth latched around Jake’s neck. Using one hand he undoes the button on Jake’s jeans, his hand slipping into the fabric to squeeze at the omega’s cock. “Perfect,” Bob says, finally releasing Jake’s neck. “You’re so perfect for me. So good.”

Whining, he blinks his eyes open, not even realizing he’s closed them. “Wanna touch you.”

Instead of answering, the alpha leans forward and kisses him again, his lips easily dominating Jake’s while his hand squeezes the omega’s cock. “You can touch later,” Bob says, “right now I wanna make you feel good.” He pulls his hand out and yanks the jeans down Jake’s hips. When he reaches for the hem of the shirt, Jake instinctively tries to keep it on. “Jake?”

“I just…” he looks away, not able to look Bob in the eyes. “The scar i-is ugly and I—”

Bob lays a hand against Jake’s cheek, stopping his words in his tracks. “That scar tells me you’re alive. It tells me your heart is still beating.” He lays his other hand right over the scar. “Maybe it’s ugly to you, but to me, it reminds me that you’re here. It’s beautiful.”

“But—”

“No, you’ve fought so hard to be here, to keep living. I was so scared I’d lose you before we got to be together, but you’re here.” The hand on his cheek shifts to gently take his jaw. “You’re alive, this scar is as beautiful to me as you are. Let me show you.”

His hands shake as he lowers them back to the bed. Bob unbuttons the shirt, letting the material fall to the sides. He doesn’t pull the shirt off completely, something Jake’s grateful for, as he leans down and presses his lips against the scarred skin. Jake whimpers, his entire body shaking as Bob gently holds him down and kisses along the skin. He feels vulnerable like this, almost completely naked but for his shirt with Bob still fully clothed. “Bo-Bobby, please.” He’s not entirely sure what he’s asking for, he just needs more.

Humming, Bob pulls back to look down at the omega beneath him. “Fuck, Sunshine, you’re so beautiful like this, all spread out for me.” He kisses lower, fingers wrapping around Jake’s thighs and pulling his legs apart. “So perfect.” Then he dives forward, his mouth latching onto Jake’s pussy and his hand wrapping around his cock.

The moan the omega lets out is embarrassing, loud, and begging while his hand's fist in the sheets below him. “Ah! Bo-Bobby!” He tries to buck his hips up into the feeling but Bob’s hands keep him pressed to the bed. His hand reaches down to wrap in the alpha’s hair only to be caught in the alpha’s grip.

“No, Sunshine, I told you I wanna take you apart.” He smiles when Jake whines, the sound drawn out and desperate. “Pinch your nipples, I wanna see you pleasuring yourself.”

A dark blush runs across his cheeks and down his chest and a spike of arousal makes his pussy throb. His shaking hand reaches up to his right nipple, twisting and pulling the sensitive bud between his fingers. He tries to squeeze his legs together to put some kind of relief on his aching pussy only for Bob’s grip to tighten around his thighs and keep him in place. “Nah…Bobby, please.”

The grin on the alpha’s face is practically feral. “Keep going, Sunshine, let me watch you fall apart.” He grabs Jake’s other hand and brings it to the omega’s throbbing dick. “Come on, Sunshine, be good for me and make yourself cum.”

With Bob’s hand still wrapped around his wrist, Jake fists his dick and starts pumping up and down, thumb running over the slit and digging in just the way he likes. He gasps and bucks his hips, slick dripping from his pussy and onto the sheets. He switches to his other nipple, whimpering and whining as he lays there. Sex in general hasn’t been a thing for him in a while and getting some good alone time over the last few months has been basically non-existent. Jake hadn’t realized how sensitive he was until now. Bob’s heated stare watching him doesn’t help.

When he lets go of his dick to reach for his aching pussy, Bob’s hand grabs his wrist. “No. That’s mine, I didn’t give you permission to do that.”

Jake’s stomach does a funny little twist at the possessiveness in his alpha’s tone, his legs widen unconsciously. “Please,” he whines, “please, I-I need to cum. Please, Bobby.”

Bob hums and leans down, pressing soothing kisses against Jake’s flushed cheeks. “God, you're beautiful like this. Can’t wait until you’re fully healed. Gonna tie you up and keep you in my den so I can take you apart over and over again.”

His mouth drops open and his nails dig into the palm of his hand. “Want it, want you.”

“Go on, Sunshine, keep going. Wanna watch you come apart.”

Jake takes his dick in his hand again, squeezing his nipple in time with each stroke. He’s so close, but not there yet. His pussy throbs and slick cover his thighs, so empty and begging for something to fill him. But Bob told him, no, and Jake wants to be good.

A large hand wraps around his neck, not squeezing, but putting a noticeable pressure there. It makes every never in Jake’s body come alive as he comes all over himself. His pussy clamps around nothing and slick squirts out of him. Cum shoots from his dick across his belly leaving a noticeable mess.

Bob grins down at Jake, a huge smile that stretches from ear to ear. “Good boy, Sunshine, so good for me.” He kisses Jake’s slack lips, using the land he has around the omega’s throat to tilt his head in the right position. “Mine, all mine.”

“Yours,” Jake says, his instincts latching on to the one who made him feel so good.

Bob kisses him again, his hand tightening and loosening over and over. “You want my knot, Sunshine?”

He nods, words feeling too difficult right now.

His alpha lets go of his neck, hand sliding down Jake’s chest, across his stomach, and right between his legs. Bob presses two fingers inside, rubbing and stroking his inner walls “Who’s pussy is this?”

Jake doesn’t hesitate. “Yours, it’s yours, alpha.”

Bob smiles at him. “That’s right, Sunshine, this belongs to me,” he presses a third finger in, his thumb coming up to circle his clit. “Which means, you’re not to touch it unless I say otherwise, understand?”

“Yes! Yes!” He tries grinding into Bob’s hand but the alpha pulls his hand back if Jake does that.

“These are mine too,” he pinches first one then the other nipple, “and this.” He pinches the tip of Jake’s dick, delighting in the whine it draws from the omega. “No one else gets to see you like this.”

Jake nods, his entire body shaking with oversensitivity and the pure need burning through him all at once. He doesn’t want anyone but Bob, he doesn’t want anyone to see him like this other than his alpha.

Bob kisses him again. “So perfect for me.” He pulls his fingers from Jake’s pussy, finally reaching to unbutton his own pants. His cock springs free, thick and long with veins running up the sides and pre-cum leaking from the slit. 

Jake wants it in his mouth. He makes an aborted motion to reach for it but stops, Bob didn’t tell him he could. “Please, wanna suck you off.”

The shirt comes next, the material flying over the side of the bed. “Next time, Sunshine. I wanna fuck you and stuff my knot into that pretty little pussy.” He picks something up off the bed, a condom. Jake doesn’t even remember Bob grabbing it.  “Hold yourself open, Sunshine, nice and wide.”

Jake does, reaching down and holding his pussy lips open, the stomach clenching and his body shuddering at the feeling of being so on display washing over him. It almost feels like presenting when he’s in heat but so much different at the same time. His body can’t handle getting on his knees and resting on his forearms or bending his back in that position right now.

Bob slips the condom on, then leans over Jake, his cock rubbing against Jake’s wet folds but not quite slipping in. “You have no idea how perfect you are to me.”

He can’t help but look away at that. Jake doesn’t feel perfect, he feels like something out of a medical textbook most days.

A hand wraps around his throat again and Jake’s eyes immediately snap up to look at Bob’s face. “Perfect, everything about you is perfect.”

“I–” He’s cut off by Bob thrusting his cock into the omega. Jake’s mouth drops open and a long drawn-out whine falls from his lips.

Bob doesn’t stop, he keeps one hand wrapped around Jake’s neck as he sets a brutal pace, his other hand rests on the mattress next to the omega’s head. “Fuck, Sunshine, you feel so good, take me so well.”

Jake’s legs wrap around Bob’s waist, his hands grabbing at the alpha’s forearm for something to hold on to. He’s babbling nonsense, some of it’s begging and some of it is his affirmation that he’s Bob’s. And Bob, fuck, Bob’s got his mouth pressed to Jake’s ear whispering filthy possessive things that make Jake see stars. Then he leans down and sucks right over the scent gland on the side of Jake’s neck. Right where his claiming bite will go one day.

He loses it after that, eyes rolling into the back of his head and pussy spasming around Bob’s cock as he cums. It’s barely a second later that he feels the alpha’s knot popping into existence, tying them together for at least the next half an hour.

Bob catches himself before he collapses on top of Jake, twisting them so they’re on their sides. They lay there for a while just catching their breaths and clinging to one another. Jake presses his face into Bob’s neck breathing in his scent and fighting with himself to keep from  letting his embarrassment get to him. He’s never been that needy or whiny during sex before.

But then again, he’s never been with someone who went through so much effort to make sure he enjoyed himself. Oh, he got off, but no one ever took that much time or care with him before.

Bob kisses the side of his head. “You okay, Sunshine? You’re not hurting are you?”

And that’s another thing, Bob’s still making sure Jake is okay. “‘M good, feel good.”

Fingers scrape through Jake’s hair, nails running along his scalp in a soothing motion. “Good, fuck, Sunshine, you have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do this with you.”

Humming, Jake presses closer. “Don’t want anyone but you.” A smile curves his face when he feels Bob’s satisfied growl rumbling through his chest. The satisfaction rolling off the alpha soothing away some of the lingering doubts. “You make me feel safe, loved, I don’t…I don’t want to be with anyone but you.”

Bob pulls back a little so he can look at Jake’s face. “Yeah?”

Jake nods. “Will…during my heat I-I’d really like it if you claim me. If-if that’s—” He doesn’t finish his sentence because Bob leans forward and kisses him, his hands holding Jake close.

“I told you,” Bob says against his lips, “you’re mine. I’d be honored to officially mate with you.”

Notes:

Also, got a new fic up called "Operation: JK-15" would love it if people checked it out. Just heed the trigger warnings before reading.

Chapter 5: The Harbinger Heron

Summary:

Bob wakes with Jake curled up against his chest. It’s not a new position, they’ve been sleeping in the same bed since Jake got home from the hospital, but there’s something different about this time.

Notes:

Have a slightly fluffy beginning followed by some angst :)

(See the end for a poll!)

Bob wakes with Jake curled up against his chest. It’s not a new position, they’ve been sleeping in the same bed since Jake got home from the hospital, but there’s something different about this time. Jake’s face seems more open, more relaxed, the worry lines on his face are gone for the first time since Bennion tried to abduct him in the hospital. He leans down, pressing a soft kiss to the omega’s temple before slowly slipping out of the bed.

Jake whines softly before curling up around Bob’s pillow. Smiling, the alpha grabs the end of the blanket and pulls it up and over his mate. He waits a second to make sure Jake’s actually still asleep before heading for the bathroom. After finishing up there, he comes back out to find the omega still in the same position and God, Bob could just fall in love with the man all over again.

He’s never been the kind of guy who takes a ton of photos, but he can’t help but grab his phone and take one of Jake now. It’s a decent picture and Bob can’t stop smiling as he looks at it. Part of him still finds it so surreal that Jake is with him, that this beautiful, amazing person wants to be with Bob. Part of him too can’t stand how much people have taken advantage of the omega. Ice and Mav did their best to shield him from it, but there’s only so much even they can do.

After another minute, he pulls on a pair of shorts and heads for the kitchen to start something for breakfast. When Bob came to open the house up yesterday, he didn’t put much in the refrigerator other than some basics. He figures if Jake wants to spend the entire weekend here they can head to the store together and pick up a few things.

He gets the eggs going, sunny side up the way Jake likes them and throws a few pieces of bacon into the pan. Bob hadn't expected his team to be following them around the aquarium all day, but he’s not as upset about it as he supposes he should be. He knows Rooster and Coyote trust him with Jake, so he knows they were there to watch their backs, but he hates that it had been necessary. He just wishes NCIS would catch Bennion already if only so Jake can sleep easier at night.

Maybe he can see about them going on a trip to LA for a few days. If they’re careful they may be able to avoid Bennion for a few days. Bob’s not stupid, he knows the other alpha is watching them even if he hasn’t been caught. Bennion is an Army Ranger, there’s no way he doesn’t have a few tricks up his sleeves. Hell, Bob’s got enough training that if he wanted to he could go off grid for a long time.

His phone buzzing on the counter catches his attention and he grabs it without looking at who’s calling. “Floyd.”

“Bob!” Maverick’s frantic voice comes through the line. “Oh thank God. Is Jake safe? I’ve been trying to call him all morning but he’s not answering.”

“He’s okay, Mav, he’s still asleep.” He turns the stove down to look in the living room where Jake’s phone lay forgotten on the couch. He grabs it up to see a million missed calls and texts from all three of his parents and his brothers. “He left his phone on the couch. I promise he’s okay.”

Maverick lets out a long breath. “Okay, okay, h-he’s okay.”

“Mav, what’s going on?”

“It’s Bennion, he was outside the house last night when none of us were home.”

It’s like a bucket of ice is poured down his back at those words.

“He climbed up the side of the house and left a letter for Jake, it was…it was disturbing. Agent DiNozzo has it. I just…Bob, I need you to—”

“I understand, I’ll keep him safe.” He looks back towards the bedroom where Jake still sleeps. “He’ll bring him home soon.”

Maverick breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you, I-I’m sorry, I know this weekend was supposed to be for you two but…”

Bob smiles. “Mav, I want him safe too. There will be other weekends.” He just wishes they could do something about this bastard now. Jake doesn’t deserve to have to deal with this forever.

They hang up and Bob heads back to the bedroom to wake his sleeping mate. Jake is still sound asleep, a contented peaceful smile on his face. He doesn’t want to wake the omega. He doesn’t get much of that right now and Bob hates that he’s about to shatter it.

After another minute, he sits on the side of the bed and runs his fingers through Jake’s hair the way Bob knows he likes. “Sunshine, it’s time to wake up.”

Jake’s nose scrunches up adorably. “Five more minutes…” he mumbles.

Bob smiles despite himself before he leans down and kisses Jake’s lips.

Jake’s eyes flutter open, their vibrant green hue seeming to light up his entire face. A shy smile appears as he blinks up at Bob. “Hi.”

“Good morning, Sleeping Beauty,” Bob greets, earning a blush and a playful swat from Jake. Then his smile fades as he remembers the phone call he just took not even five minutes ago. “There’s something I have to tell you.”

The smile on Jake’s face falls as he takes in the alpha’s expression. “W-what’s happened?”

“No one’s hurt, no one was even home when it happened, but Bennion showed up at your house last night. They caught him on camera leaving a note in your window.”

Instantly all the color drains from Jake’s face and every muscle in his body tenses in fear. “H-he wa-was at the house?”

“No one was home,” he says again, “he didn’t hurt anyone. Agent DiNozzo is there now collecting evidence. Your mom is worried, and he’d really like to see you right now.”

Jake nods, his bottom lip trembling though he manages to keep his voice steady. “Yeah, I-I’ll get dressed and—”

“And we’ll eat something before we leave.”

“Bobby I—”

“I know, but you’ll make yourself sick if you don’t eat a little bit of something. Your meds are on the sink in the bathroom. We’ll leave right after, okay?”

Jake nods. “I-I thought he was gone, for a little while, I thought he was gone.”

Bradley leans forward, wrapping his arms around Jake and holding him close. “He won’t be around forever, I promise, Jake.” Even if Bob has to hunt the bastard down and end it himself, he will. As long as Jake is safe, that’s all he cares about.

They’re packed up within an hour, the peaceful night they just had was a distant memory. Bob keeps Jake’s hand on his own the entire drive back, he keeps up a steady conversation about work and some of the plans he and Phoenix are working on for the next round of students. Jake will be starting back right when the new class gets in. The only responses Bob gets are the occasional hand squeeze or sound of acknowledgment. 

When they pull up out front, there’s an unfamiliar black car sitting by the front of the house, probably Agent DiNozzo’s NCIS vehicle. Bradley’s standing on the porch pacing back and forth with a worried look on his face. As soon as they pull into the driveway, he’s practically running down the steps to pull Jake into a tight hug. “Ma’s freaking out,” he says, “he keeps cleaning the kitchen counters.”

“Is-is everyone really okay?”

“Yes,” Bradley says. “No one was home when he was here. Dad found the note when he was putting some laundry in your room this morning and Pops checked the cameras.”

Bob rests a hand on Jake’s shoulder. “See? Everyone’s okay.”

Jake nods and pulls away from his brother after another minute. The three make their way into the house, Bradley keeping his arm thrown around his brother and Bob holding Jake’s hand.

The anxious tension in the house could be cut with a knife. Everyone’s there, their pack strewn about the living room trying to keep themselves from freaking out. A collective sigh of relief seems to go through everyone when they see Jake.

The omega gives everyone a small smile before heading for the kitchen, Bob goes with him. Maverick drops the rag he’s wiping the counters down with and turns just as he and Jake walk into the room. In the next second, the two are hugging, Jake tucking himself into the older omega’s arms like a small child would. Pete squeezes his arms around his pup, the height difference between them is notable but right now it doesn’t seem to mean anything as Jake just falls into his mother’s arms. 

Bob stands back a bit but doesn’t go far, not when he knows Jake is going to need him. Iceman and Cyclone walk in then, their tense features softening when they see Jake. Maverick only lets his son go so the two alphas can also hug Jake.

Agent DiNozzo comes into the kitchen a few steps behind them. In his hands is a plastic evidence bag with a piece of paper in it. “Hey, Jake, sorry about how we’re meeting again.”

Jake nods, remaining close to Iceman’s side as the alpha keeps his arm wrapped around his son’s shoulders.

“The letter,” Jake says, when they let him go, “what does it say?”

“Sweetheart you don’t have to read it,” Pete says.

“Your mom’s right, you don’t need to even think about it,” Bob says. Lord knows what that bastard wrote in there.

“I don’t want to read it, but I need to. I…he said some things to me in the hospital, I might recognize something in his note.”

“Jake—” Cyclone starts.

“No, I know you want to protect me but I can’t just sit back and let him run around. Just let me read it.”

Agent DiNozzo hesitates for only a second before passing the letter over. “It’s disturbing, Jake.”

Jake doesn’t say anything to dissuade that as he looks down at the paper.

Dear Jay,

I've been counting the days since I saw you last, smiling and happy when you saw me the second I walked into your hospital room. I remember the way you looked at me, with that mix of fear and understanding. You knew, didn't you? You knew that no matter what, I couldn't leave you there alone, vulnerable to the cold hands of those doctors and your supposed family. But I had to, and it's been eating at me ever since. I know you told me it’s okay, that we’d be together again soon, but I hated doing it. I hated walking away from you.

I've been watching you, Jay. Not in the way that others watch things they care about, from a safe distance. No, I've been close enough to hear your breath catch when you see your reflection – those scars, they're a map of a surgery you never needed. They mar the perfection that is your skin, a canvas I once knew as well as my own mind. I hate them. I hate that they've touched you, changed you once again, but it’ll be alright. I’ll make you whole again.

We were perfect, Jay. You may not see it now, but we were. You were mine, and I was yours, in a dance that only we understood. But you pulled away, you severed the connection with a coldness I didn't know you possessed. It's okay, though. I forgive you. I know you didn't mean it. You were scared – scared of how deep our bond goes.

Remember, my love, you will never really be away from me. I will always be with you wherever you go. I am the eyes that watch over you as you sleep, ensuring no one else can ever get as close as I've been.

We'll be together again, Jake. It's only a matter of time. Until then, keep feeling my presence, just as I feel your heart beating. We’ll sleep under the stars like I told you we would.

Forever Yours,
Matt

Iceman takes the letter out of Jake’s hand when he starts shaking again and hands it back to Agent DiNozzo. “Jake, you—”

“He’s the only one who calls me, Jay,” Jake says, seemingly not even hearing his father speak. “He um…h-he told me had a cabin somewhere out near Yosemite when we first started dating. He would say he’d take me out there to camp one day. I-I have no idea if he still has it or not, but…”

“We didn’t see one listed in his assets when we did a background check, but it’s worth looking into,” Agent DiNozzo says. “Thank you, Jake. We’ll find him and he’ll go away for murder and attempted kidnapping.”

Jake nods but doesn’t say anything.

“Are there any leads?” Bob asks.

“We’re following a few. Most of his old team members don’t want anything to do with him, so we’re looking for people outside of his military career.”

“Do you think General Bennion is helping him?” Cyclone asks.

“It’s a possibility, but he’s still in the Middle East, and getting him back is difficult, even with SECDEF ordering it. The situation there is sensitive, I’m not even sure he’s been in contact with his son.”

Iceman’s arm tightens around Jake. “This needs to be resolved. Jake can’t keep living with this hanging over his head.”

“I know. SECDEF is getting someone out there to relieve General Bennion as soon as he can. In the meantime, I have other leads I’m chasing.”

The discussion goes on for a little longer but Bob gently pulls Jake from the kitchen when he notices the omega getting overwhelmed. They join everyone else in the living room, Jake being pulled into the spot between his brothers on the couch while Bob sits on the floor with his back to the couch. Bradley pulls his little brother close, his arm wrapping around the blond’s shoulders while Javy links their arms together.

Callie opens the door to Hermia’s cage and the little yellow bird ruffles her feathers and twitters happily as she flies right for Jake, curling up on his shoulder and nuzzling her head against Jake’s chin. The effect is instantaneous as the omega relaxes, his free hand coming up to gently run across Hermia’s feathers.

Duke gets up from his dog bed by the fireplace and comes to lay across Bob’s lap. He never had any pets growing up, their lives had been too busy to fit a dog or even a cat in, but he’s beginning to like having them around. Maybe when they move into their place, Bob can ask Jake about picking their own dog out. He knows it’ll have to be one that will be safe to have around Hermia but he thinks they can find one.

“So, Jake, Rooster said the doctor cleared you for the beach?” Billy says.

Jake nods. “Ye-yeah. I still have to be careful if the water’s too rough but she said it’s safe.”

“Excellent!” Logan says. He snatches a coke out of Brigham’s hand when the alpha walks by with them. “We’re planning a beach party for the pack. Just us and maybe Amelia too if she wants to come.”

“Really? But you guys have been free to go to the beach—”

“None of us wanted to go when you couldn’t, Goldie,” Mickey says. “Besides, we’ve all been so busy with Top Gun and our new assignment that we haven’t had time to go.”

Natasha walks into the room and hands Bob a bottle of water and sits on the floor next to Bob. “And it’ll be perfect since you’ll be starting back at work next Monday. It’ll be a nice recharge for us and a little welcome back for you.”

“Come on, J.T., it’ll be fun, you need some of that after being cooped up for two months,” Bradley says.

It’s not like he hasn’t gone out, he’s been doing light exercises and gone to a few places with his parents, but he’d already been immunocompromised before all of this, but now he’s going to actually get to do things again. The limitations holding him back won’t be so crazy. “Okay, yeah, it does sound fun.”

Bob smiles to himself as he pets Duke’s head. He knows Jake’s still worried about Bennion, but having everyone around seems to be helping. Knowing that their pack will be around to protect Jake eases the worry he’s felt since he took Maverick’s call this morning. 

---

Jake won’t move from the doorway of his bedroom, his eyes glued to the window.

Bob’s heart breaks watching the apprehension takeover his mate’s face. This is Jake’s home, his sanctuary, it’s where his nest is and his family. Even just showing up outside feels like a violation. He’d known Jake wasn’t ready to go upstairs but as it grew later in the day and the adrenaline and excitement wore down, it became unavoidable.

He walks over, gently laying a hand on Jake’s cheek to turn the omega’s face from the window so they’re looking at each other. “Do you want to sleep in the guestroom tonight? I can pack some of our stuff together and meet you there.”

Jake’s bottom lip trembles before he shakes his head. “N-No, this is my room, I don’t want him to take it from me.”

Bob smiles a little. “Okay, then how about I get something to cover the window with tonight? Mav said Warlock and Cyclone are going to pick up those privacy screens for the house tomorrow and cover all the windows. No one will be able to look inside once they’re up.”

He nods, the reminder helping relax some of the tension from Jake’s body. “Yo-you don’t think he’s been watching us sleep, do you?”

“He couldn’t have, the security cameras would have caught him.” Bob presses their foreheads together, his arms wrapping around the small of Jake’s back and pulling him in close. “You’re safe, Sunshine, we’re all here. He’s not going to get to you. And if you really don’t want to stay here, we can pack up and go back to my dad’s place. Matt doesn’t know about it.”

Jake presses closer. “Ju-Just don’t leave me alone here tonight.”

“I promise, I’ll stay the whole night.” After another second, he gently pulls Jake into the room, giving him plenty of time to back up if he wants to. The otter Bob bought Jake is sitting on the end of the bed and the omega immediately picks it up. Bob smiles to himself and squeezes Jak'es hand. "Come on, let's get ready for bed."

Notes:

I hope you all liked this one!

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Chapter 6: Reinforcing the Nest

Summary:

Jake watches as Warlock smooths out the privacy screen on the window. The tint darkens the sunlight coming in; otherwise, it doesn’t change too much. “I-Is this really going to stop people from being able to look into the house?”

Notes:

Sorry this took forever to post! My sister and I were on vacation at the end of May and I just finally caught up on all the work that piled up during my vacation.

Jake watches as Warlock smooths out the privacy screen on the window. The tint darkens the sunlight coming in; otherwise, it doesn’t change too much. “I-Is this really going to stop people from being able to look into the house?”

“Yep, my mate insisted we put them up in our house after we had a new neighbor move in who is a little too nosey,” Warlock says. “They work wonders.”

Footsteps sound on the stairs as Beau comes down. “Bedrooms and hall windows are all done,” he says. He drops his extra supplies on the table and comes to sit next to Jake on the couch. Jake can’t help but immediately lean into Beau’s side. Even on a Sunday, the daggers got called in for a surprise evaluation from SECNAV himself, Jake thinks Jarvis is just looking for an excuse to check in on them. Tom and Pete, as the official COs of the new team, had to be there but that just left Beau and Solomon free to come over. “You okay, kid?”

Jake nods. “Better than last night, I-I just can’t shake the feeling that he’s watching me.”

Beau’s arm tightens around him. “I know, I’m sorry this is happening and I know you’re scared, but we’re going to do everything we can to protect you.”

“It’ll be easier once you’re back at work,” Solomon says, packing up the trash and remaining supplies from the screens. “You’ll be surrounded by MPs and the Navy, no one will be able to get on base that shouldn’t be there.”

Jake grins. “Think you can convince Dad and Pops to let me back to work earlier?” he asks.

“Absolutely not, I’m already worried about infection setting in when you are scheduled to start, I am not risking it sooner.”

Both Jake and Solomon grin at each other, it’s the exact answer they expected to get. “Don’t worry,” Solomon says, “you’ll be back to work soon enough then you’ll be bitching about your students not listening.” He drops into the armchair across from the couch. “Speaking of, I can’t believe you haven’t tossed Tempest out on his ass, yet, Cy.”

“Has he done something new?”

Cyclone sighs. “Technically, no, he’s been rude and defiant but nothing that warrants disciplinary action, yet.”

“Do…do you think he knows he’s being monitored?” Jake asks. A knot of apprehension formings in his stomach. Despite his attempts to focus on his recovery and the protective measures being taken at home, the looming presence of his former student casts a shadow over his thoughts. He wants to go back to work, he wants to prove he’s ready, but he can’t help the fear of having to be around someone like Tempest.

Beau squeezes his arm around Jake’s shoulders, his expression serious. "It's hard to say, Jake. Tempest isn’t the easiest to predict. He might not be the best in the world, but he’s not stupid. He might suspect something, especially with all the scrutiny he's under now, but it's equally possible that he's oblivious to it all."

 

Jake chews his lip nervously, mulling over Beau’s words. "I just don't know what will happen if I somehow end up alone with him, especially if he hasn't changed."

Beau ruffles Jake’s hair reassuringly. "We’re going to do everything we can to prevent that. We'll make sure you're supported every step of the way."

Solomon nods in agreement. "And if Tempest tries anything, he'll have the entire Top Gun facility to answer to."

The warmth of their support offers some comfort to Jake, but the fear still lingers. "What if he hasn't changed, though? What if he's still the same arrogant jerk who made my life miserable?"

Beau holds him tighter. "Then we deal with it, kid. We won't let anyone harm you, not while we're around. Cain and Yates only cared about what they wanted, we’re not going to let someone like Tempest get away with hurting anyone. Least of all my own kid."

Jake laughs a little at that. He’s determined to prove he’s ready to be back at work, and having the support from the people around him makes it all the easier. “Thanks, Dad.”

_____

When Bob gets home, Jake is on the back porch reading a book with Duke. The alpha looks exhausted but before Jake can say anything he’s coming over to the lounge chair Jake is perched on, picking him up, and sitting back down the omega in his lab. Jake laughs as Bob’s arms snake around him in an imitation of an octopus, his book forgotten on the end of the cushion. Duke huffs at being disturbed before curling back up at the end of the lounge chair. “Long day?”

Bob grunts and buries his face in his mate’s neck. “Extremely.” His fingers stroke against the skin on Jake’s side where his shirt rode up. “Saw the screens are up. How are you?”

Jake presses into Bob’s arms, the feeling of having his mate holding him close is one he’s not ever going to get tired of. “Okay, still anxious about everything, but having those privacy screens help.”

Lifting his head, Bob kisses the side of Jake’s head. “Phoenix is going to run by my place with Coyote and Halo to put them up there too.”

He tilts his head back to look up at the alpha. “Re-really?”

“Yeah, Bennion doesn’t know about that place but I’m not risking it if we go there again.” And Bob plans on taking Jake there again even if it’s only for a little while. Jake deserves to have a place that’s outside of all of this chaos.

Duke, sensing Jake’s anxiety, sits up and nudges at his hand until Jake starts petting him. “Do…do you think we could spend my heat there?” Jake asks.

Bob blinks in surprise. Spending a heat outside of an omegas nest isn’t impossible but it’s not that common to be something an omega would want to do. Most of the time, an omega wants to be in the place they feel safest. Bob had assumed they would spend it here, where Jake’s family is. “If you want to, are you sure?”

Jake ducks his head. “Yes, I…I want to be able to just focus on us an-and I know I’m going to be freaking out that Matt is waiting outside the window watching us if-if we stay here an-and—”

“Hey,” Bob squeezes his arms around the blond, “breathe, we’re okay.”

He lets out a long breath. “Sorry.”

“Don’t be,” he kisses Jake’s temple again. “It’s okay to feel the way you do right now. If you want to spend your heat at my place we can. We can make it like the entire pack is going on a trip and they can take the guest rooms while we’re in our space together. Then when we come out everyone will be there.”

Jake nods, voice tight as he speaks, “I’d really like that.” The first heat for an omega in a forming pack is arguably one of the most important. Omegas and alphas rely on their packs for comfort and balance after spending so much time in a heightened state that a heat or rut will bring on. Maverick, Iceman, and Cyclone won’t be around during it because this is specifically for their forming pack. Mickey will undoubtedly go through the same thing when it’s time for his heat.

“Then we’ll do that,” Bob says. “I can start getting it ready for us and when you’re ready, we can bring some of your nesting supplies over.”

Jake sniffles, fighting back the tears suddenly burning in his eyes. “That sounds perfect. Can we bring Hermia?”

“Absolutely, we can set up a cage there so she has her own space. I’m sure everyone will help look after her.” Bob holds his mate tighter, his fingers running soothing circles into the skin of the blond’s side. “Bet you Halo will spend the entire time there baking up a storm.”

“We’ll probably all gain ten pounds during the week,” Mickey says as he and Rueben come out to join them. “Callie called, they got the screens up and they checked the place to make sure everything’s locked up.”

Reuben pulls Mickey into his lap on the opposite lounge. “I swear she’s determined to turn us all into her uncle’s guinea pigs,” Reuben says.

Jake laughs, the tension bleeding from the lines of his body as he relaxes against Bob. “You say that like you don’t love getting her stuff.”

“Oh we do, that doesn’t mean we want to be slowing down during drills,” Mickey says. “Cyclone’s only nice when we’re not working.”

“So, Jake, you ready to come back to Top Gun?” Reuben asks. “Everyone misses you there.”

Jake smiles. “Yeah, I actually miss teaching and getting to know more than all of you combined.”

Mickey cackles. “You’re like Brain from Pinky & the Brain sometimes, Goldie.”

“I do not have an insatiable desire to take over the world!” Jake says.

“Yes, you do,” Bradley says as he comes up the porch from the shed where all their surfing equipment is. Jake didn’t even realize he’d been down there. “You were always talking me into shit as pups and you always got out of it because you had the ‘sickly pup’ look down to a science.”

Jake blinks innocently at him. “Well, I was sickly as a pup.”

Bradley leans down so they’re face to face. “You faked an asthma attack in front of a cop.”

Jake’s grin widens. “It got you out of a speeding ticket and a month-long grounding, didn’t it?”

“That you nearly got me!”

“Hey, you’re the one who did 90 in a 35 zone, not me. I merely suggested it would be fun.”

Bradley face palms while everyone else bursts into laughter.

“I’m sorry, what?” None of them heard the back door open until Pete is suddenly outside.  “You were driving 90 miles an hour with your little brother in the car? In the Bronco!?”

Bradley straightens and points an accusatory finger at Jake. “It was his idea!”

“I don’t care whose idea it was, you’re older!”

Bradley throws his hands in the air. “It was almost twenty years ago, Ma!”

“That doesn’t mean—”

“Ma,” Jake says, his eyes widening innocently, “it was after I had that really bad breathing attack in the hangar. You and Pops canceled that trip we were going to take to LA because I wasn’t feeling good and I just wanted to do something fun.”

And Pete, faced with Jake’s pale and tired look plus the memory of how sick Jake had been around then, can’t argue with it. He gives Bradley another look. “Dinner should be ready once Halo, Phoenix, and Coyote get back.” He turns and heads back inside, the back door snapping shut behind him.

Bradley spins and gives Jake the stink eye. “How?”

Jake grins at his brother. “I’m the favorite.”

“Are not.”

“Are too.”

“You’re adopted!”

“So are you!”

Mickey and Reuben lose the battle with their laughter as they fall into each other, Bob’s entire body trembling as he leans his forehead against Jake’s shoulder. “Is this what it’s like with siblings?”

Bradley narrows his eyes. “Unfortunately.”

Jake smirks at him.

_____

Later, while everyone else is helping clean up dinner, Jake finally asks Mickey about Tempest. Hermia is fluttering around the room, inspecting the coverings over the windows now that they’re darker.

“He’s been…careful,” Mickey says. “He hasn’t done anything but I can tell he’s not happy with me there, or taking orders from me. And he gives me the creeps, the way he watches me it’s like…”

“Like he’s waiting for you to screw up so he can come in and ‘save’ you or show you up.” Jake knows that feeling all too well from Tempest.

“Yes!” Mickey drops back in his chair. He smiles when Hermia flies over and drops on Jake’s shoulder. “I mean, none of the guys have left me alone with him so nothing’s happened but you can tell he’s just waiting for something.”

“That’s how he was with me,” Jake says. “Bob was his WSO back then and he always made sure to stick around if Tempest came near me.”

Pete wanders into the room, handing Jake a glass of water and his evening medications. “Are you talking about Tempest?” he asks.

Jake nods. “Yeah.” He swallows the pills down and sets the glass aside. Hermia whistles happily and presses her beak to his cheek, making Jake smile.

“Bradley’s got your office all set up for you so you’ll be comfortable, but he pushed your desk closer to the window and his near the door in case Tempest comes by,” the older omega says. He drops into the seat next to Jake. “Beau’s also made the schedule so Bradley, Bob, Javy, or one of the other Daggers will be with you while Tempest is here.”

Jake swallows the lump forming in his throat. “We shouldn’t have to do all of this.”

“No we shouldn’t,” Pete agrees, “but we’re not really being given a choice in the matter right now. Tempest hasn’t tried anything yet, but whenever your name does come up he gets this look on his face that I don’t like.”

If only repercussions could come based on the look someone gets on their face. Jake rubs his eyes. “Yeah, well, maybe when I’m there he’ll finally slip up.”

“Don’t say that, you shouldn’t have to deal with it at all,” Mickey says. “Look, the guy is going to mess up, we all know that, but you shouldn’t have to be the one that gets the brunt of his attitude and bigotry.”

“Mickey’s right, if he makes you even the slightest bit uncomfortable I’ll knock his teeth out.”

That makes Jake laugh. “Ma, you taught me how to properly nut-kick an alpha during my PT, I should be fine.”

“Wait, there’s a proper way?” Mickey asks.

“I’ll teach you during the squad's next Hand-to-Hand drill,” Pete says. “And you can nut-kick him, then I’ll knock his teeth out.”

“Pete, you can’t go around knocking people’s teeth out,” Tom says as he walks into the living room. He looks between the three of them with narrowed eyes. “Are you three plotting something?”

“Maybe,” they all answer at once.

“Oh God,” Reuben says from the other room. “Admiral, you’ve got to break them up. Letting all three of them plot something is a recipe for disaster.”

“Even if we’re plotting against Tempest?” Mickey asks.

“I…” he looks at Tom for help.

“Yes, even if you’re plotting something against him. We don’t need a criminal investigation into you three.”

“You say that like we’ll leave any evidence,” Jake says.

“And with that, I think it’s time we break up this little pow-wow,” Bradley says. He gives a narrowed-eyed look at Hermia when the bird raises her wings and glares at him. “What? I have not come near you!”

“Shithead.”

Jake chokes on a laugh. “Who taught her that?”

“I did!” Fritz proudly shouts. “She already knows ‘asshole’. I figured she needed to expand her vocabulary.”

Hermia twitters and flies up to land on Fritz’s shoulder and he immediately grabs a few pieces of kiwi and strawberries from the bowl on the counter. “I think I’m going to teach her—”

“Teach her any more swear words and you’re cleaning out her case for the next year,” Jake says.

“—the Barbie Girl song?”

Yale pats his shoulder. “Nice save, Billy.”

Jake whistles and Hermia immediately flies back over to him, landing happily on Jake’s shoulder with her Kiwi.

_____

Jake spreads out the paint swatches on the bed, ten shades of beige all varying in intensity. “Isn't it a little early to be picking paint colors?” he asks.

Bob hands his towel on the back of the door and comes over to sit on the bed with Jake. “I just figured we could narrow it down a bit.” Bob twists until he’s settled with Jake leaning against his chest. “I was thinking of one of these. They’re a little lighter so we could do dark furniture to offset it.” He points to the three at the end.

Jake picks them up. They’re nice, but he’s having trouble picturing them on a wall based on just blueprints. Bob’s right though, lighter colors will give them more options with selecting furniture. He sets the swatches in the keep envelope and puts the others in the discard one. “I want a firepit,” he says.

Bob laughs and wraps his arms around Jake’s waist. “I think we can manage that.” He presses a kiss to the side of Jake’s neck, right over his scent gland. It makes Jake shiver and press closer to the alpha. “How are you doing, really?”

He leans his head back so he can look up at his soon-to-be-mate. “I’m terrified,” he whispers. “Not just of Matt, but of starting back with Tempest at Top Gun. I love working there and teaching, but I never realized how much he scared me until the thought of working with him came up. I know you’re all going to be there, I trust you all to have my back, but all he needs is one chance.”

“I know, and I swear we’re all going to do everything in our power to keep you from being alone with him.”

Jake breaths out a slow breath. “I know you are, and I trust you all, I just…”

“Everything you're feeling is understandable. You’re dealing with so much right now and I know this isn’t helping, but even if Tempest doesn’t fuck up completely, he won’t be here for long. Another three months if that.”

“I just wish we could have some time to be a normal couple. I want to be able to go to the movies, to the beach, hell a shitty dinner without being scared out of my mind.”

“And we will, as soon as Matt is in jail, I’ll take you to the shittiest dinner I can find.”

Jake smiles and turns his head so he can rest his forehead on Bob’s neck. “Sounds like a date.”

Notes:

I need a Bob in my life. He's the perfect man.

Chapter 7: Seagulls & Vultures

Summary:

Jake squishes his toes in the sand, a grin breaking across his face. He’s been down to the water before now, Beau had snuck him down after Jake began walking around without needing to lean on someone after five steps, but this is the first time he’ll get actually to be in the water. Jake without the worry of getting an infection.

Notes:

I know I owed you guys multiple updates! I'm sorry for taking so long to getting this up. I've had a lot going on.

Jake squishes his toes in the sand, a grin breaking across his face. He’s been down to the water before now, Beau had snuck him down after Jake began walking around without needing to lean on someone after five steps, but this is the first time he’ll get actually to be in the water. Jake without the worry of getting an infection.

He follows Bob down to where Bradley is already setting up some umbrellas and chairs. The picnic table Penny keeps out on the sand has been dragged closer so they’ll have a place to eat without getting sand in their food. Javy comes around with a giant cooler full of beers and soda and drops it on the table. “Alright! Everyone should be here soon, they’re just picking up some stuff on the way.”

Bob gently pushes Jake towards one of the chairs before getting their stuff out of the beach bag they brought. “Mickey has also insisted on picking up something from the Mexican place in town.”

“It’s not even ten in the morning!” Bradley says as digs an umbrella into the sand next to Jake’s chair.

“Your point?” Jake and Javy say at the same time.

Bradley sighs. “And I thought having one little brother was annoying, now there are two of you.”

Jake grins at the surprised look on Javy’s face. Pete and Tom treat Javy the same way they do Jake and Bradley, he’s honestly surprised Javy didn’t pick it up sooner. “You’re the middle child,” Jake says.

Javy stares at him for a minute before seeming to come back to himself. He points at the rainbow umbrella Bradley had just set up. “You put the umbrella up wrong.”

“I did not!”

Jake laughs as they start arguing over the correct placement of the umbrella.

Bob shakes his head and starts unloading the bag they brought with their towels and other stuff. He grabs the sunscreen once he finds it. “So, I know you can’t start surfing yet but do you want to go in now or wait until everyone else gets here?”

The sudden realization that he’ll have to take his shirt off around everyone where they’ll be able to see his scar makes Jake want to throw up. Jake knows that his surgical scar isn’t something to be ashamed of, but he can’t help it. He’s spent so much time in and out of hospitals that it feels like part of his identity is wrapped up in that scar and he doesn’t want it on display. Jake would wear a wetsuit or a rash guard but he doesn’t want to put something constricting on his chest so soon.

“I don’t—” He cuts himself off when he sees Bradley and Javy throw their own shirts off and both of them have a thick black line in the center of their chests. “Wh-what are those?”

Both men look at each other and then at Jake, giant grins on their faces. “You like ‘em?” Bradley asks.

Jake’s eyes burn as he looks between the two of them. “You got a tattoo of my surgical scar?”

Bradley nods, his grin unwavering. “Yeah, we did. We wanted you to know that you’re not alone, Jake. We’re with you every step of the way.”

Javy steps closer, placing a hand on Jake’s shoulder. “We know how tough it’s been for you, man. Not just with the surgery, but everything going on. And we figured, if you have to wear your scar, we should too. We’re brothers, right?”

Jake’s heart swells with emotion, a lump forming in his throat. He looks at Bob, who’s holding the sunscreen with a gentle smile. “You knew about this?”

Bob nods, a big smile stretching across the alpha’s face. “Of course. It was their idea, but I thought it was perfect. We all wanted to make sure you felt supported, no matter what.”

Jake’s eyes well up with tears, but he doesn’t let them fall, there’s no way he’s going to let his face get all red and blotchy. He takes a deep breath, trying to steady his voice. “Thank you, guys. This means...it means a lot.”

Bradley and Javy move together, their arms enveloping Jake in their arms. He can feel the warmth of their skin, the beating of their hearts, and the love and protectiveness in their gestures. For the first time since the night he and Bob spent together for their date, Jake feels a sense of peace wash over him. The worry about his scar suddenly doesn’t seem so bad.

Bob clears his throat, breaking the moment with a soft chuckle. “Alright, now that we’ve got that sorted, let’s get some sunscreen on you. You don’t want to add a sunburn to your list of worries.”

Jake laughs, the sound light and free. He nods, taking off his shirt and feeling a newfound sense of courage. There’s still that anxiety of having his scar out in the open for everyone to see, but he doesn’t feel so untethered now knowing his brothers got tattooed just makes him feel more comfortable.

Bradley and Javy finish setting up the beach area, spreading out towels and organizing the snacks they brought. The sun is shining, the waves are crashing gently against the shore, and the air is filled with the sounds of laughter and seagulls.

It doesn’t take long for the rest of their pack to start showing up. Soon enough all eleven aviators have arrived and the beach is filled with the sounds of their chatter and laughter. It feels normal having everyone here and not having to worry about his health too much. None of the others treat him like glass even if they’re still careful with him.

Jake hasn’t felt ready to go into the ocean yet. He wants to, but the sudden nerves at being in there seem like too much all at once. Everyone else has been in and out of the water, Harvard, Yale, and Fritz are out with the water up to their waists, splashing and laughing at each other.

It makes Jake want to go in but he still just can’t make his way down.

The decision is taken out of his hands when he’s lifted up off the sand. “Bradley Bradford Bradshaw! Put me down!”

“No way!” Bradley shifts his grip when Jake squirms and tries to break free. “I said I was going to throw you into the waves and I meant it!” He runs into the rolling waves until the water is up closer to his waist before doing a twist and tossing himself back with his little brother still clutched in his arms. As much fun as it would be to just toss Jake into the water, Bradley doesn’t want to actually hurt his brother, but that doesn’t mean he’s going to let Jake off without getting dunked.

The water crashes around them as Bradley and Jake hit the waves. The cool ocean water splashes over them, and Jake lets out a delighted yelp as he’s submerged briefly before resurfacing, sputtering and laughing.

“Bradley! You jerk!” Jake splashes water at Bradley, who’s already grinning like a fool.

“You love it!” Bradley teases, splashing back. “Admit it, you missed this.”

Jake shakes his head, trying to fend off the splashes. “Maybe a little,” he concedes, unable to hide his smile. Fuck, the water feels good on his slightly overheated skin. This was to push he needed to get over his nerves.

Javy and Bob, watching from the shore, share a look before joining the fray. “Think you can handle all of us, Rooster?” Javy calls out, wading into the water.

“Bring it on, Coyote!” Bradley replies, using their call signs with a playful smirk.

Bob, hanging back slightly, watches the scene with a mixture of amusement and concern. “Careful, guys. Don’t forget Jake’s still recovering.”

Bradley grins, his arm wrapping around Jake to keep him from losing his balance in the waves. “Don’t worry, Bob. We’re just having some fun.”

Jake, now acclimated to the water and the playful roughhousing, looks at Bob. “Come on, Bobby!”

Bob grins and wades in, holding his hands up in surrender. “Alright, alright. Just don’t blame me if I end up dunking you all.”

It’s not long before everyone has run into the water, Callie and Phoenix teaming up tackle Javy right into a breaking wave. The three of them come up sputtering and clinging to each other like tentacles and with manic grins on their face. Yale swims over to Jake and lets the omega lean on him while Bradley makes a dive at Bob to try and dunk him under the waves with Harvard and Fritz joining the fray.

The twelve of them spend the next hour playing in the waves, laughing and shouting as they splash and chase each other. Despite his initial reservations, Jake finds himself feeling more alive than he has in months. The water is refreshing, the sun warm on his skin, and the presence of his pack makes him feel invincible.

Eventually, they all tire out and make their way back to the shore, collapsing onto the towels in a heap of damp, sandy exhaustion.

“Okay, I admit it,” Jake says, catching his breath. “That was pretty great.”

Bradley ruffles his hair, laughing. “Told you. Sometimes you just gotta dive in.”

Callie, leaning back on her elbows, looks at Jake with a serious expression. “You know, Goldie, we’re all just happy that you’re feeling better. If you need more time before we do something, none of us will be upset.”

“Yeah,” Fritz says, “we’re all more concerned with making sure you’re safe and feeling one hundred percent.”

Jake nods, his smile softening. God, he never thought he’d have this kind of pack looking out for him outside of his family. “I know. But today...today was perfect. I needed this. Thanks, guys.”

Bob, lying beside Jake, reaches over and squeezes his hand. “Told you, no one cares about your scar. All anyone wants is to see you feeling better and happy.”

He leans his head on Bob’s shoulder. “I know, thank you for reminding me.”

After everyone has reapplied sunscreen and gorged themselves on hot dogs and burgers, Bob and Jake decide to take a short walk towards an outcropping of rocks that lead right into the water. It’s not far from where everyone has their stuff set up but it gives them some privacy.

The sand is warm beneath their feet as Jake and Bob walk hand in hand towards the outcropping. The rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the rocks provides a soothing backdrop to their conversation.

Jake glances at Bob, a soft smile playing on his lips. “Thanks for today. I really needed it. We all needed it.”

Bob returns the smile, giving Jake’s hand a gentle squeeze. “I know it’s not fun, and there’s still so much going on with Matt Bennion and Tempest, but that doesn’t mean we can’t find time to be a pack.”

They reach the rocks and find a spot to sit against the smooth surface, the water lapping at their toes. Jake takes a deep breath, feeling the salty sea air fill his lungs. “You know, I was really scared about today. I didn’t want anyone to see my scar and think of me as weak. I know it’s silly, you’ve all seen me through the worst but I…I don’t know.”

“It’s not silly.” Bob shakes his head, his eyes full of understanding. He reaches a hand up and brushes a few strands out of the omega’s eyes. “Jake, your scar doesn’t make you weak. It shows how strong you are, how much you’ve overcome. Anyone who sees it should be in awe of your strength.”

Jake leans against Bob, feeling the warmth of his alpha’s body against his. “How do you always know what to say to make me feel better?”

Bob laughs and wraps his arms around his omega. “You already know all of this, I’m just helping you remember. I love you,” Bob replies, pressing a kiss to the top of Jake’s head. “And I’ll always be here to remind you of how amazing you are.”

They sit in comfortable silence for a while, watching the waves and enjoying the peaceful moment. The sun is starting to dip lower in the sky, casting a golden glow over the water.

Jake turns to Bob, his eyes reflecting the colors of the sunset. “Do you ever think about our future? About what we’re going to do next once Matt’s finally out of our lives?”

Bob’s gaze is steady, full of affection and love that makes Jake’s stomach flutter. “All the time. I think about us finishing our house, about all the adventures we still have ahead of us, the family we’re going to build one day. And I think about how lucky I am to have you in my life.”

Jake’s heart squeezes and a blush warms his cheeks. “I feel the same way. I don’t know what I’d do without you. I wish I’d been brave enough to say something back when you were in Top Gun the first time around.”

Bob smiles, his fingers gently tracing the outline of Jake’s scar. “We found each other again, that’s all I care about now.”

The sound of laughter and chatter drifts over from the beach, reminding them that they’re not alone. Jake looks back towards their friends, their pack, feeling a deep sense of gratitude.

“We should probably head back,” Jake says, though he’s reluctant to leave their little haven. If they don’t head back on their own, then one of the guys will no doubt make their way over.

Bob nods, standing up and offering his hand to Jake. “Yeah, they’re probably wondering where we wandered off to.”

As they make their way back to the group, Jake feels less like he’s being examined and more like a human being. Matt Bennion is still a very real threat, one that still looms over Jake’s head like a rain cloud, but he’s surrounded by people who won’t let anything happen to him.

When they return, Bradley, Javy, and the others greet them with playful jeers and more laughter. Fritz and Harvard are making kissy faces at them that are quickly stopped when Yale jabs an elbow into their stomachs.

The rest of the evening is filled with more games, laughter, and stories shared around a bonfire as the sun sets completely and the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky. Today had been a really good day.

---

There’s an envelope sitting on Bob’s car along with a peach begonia with the stem hacked off.

Jake grabs Bob’s arm as they step into the parking lot. “Bo-Bobby.”

Bob’s eyes zero in on the letter and his arm wraps around Jake’s waist. “Rooster, Coyote, Bennion was here.”

The words immediately have the entire pack on high alert. Harvard tosses Bob a set of keys. “Take my truck, go to your place.”

Neil grabs Jake’s bag from where he dropped it and tosses it into the truck bed. “Callie and I will go with you two. We’ll take the backway in case he’s following us.”

Jake’s entire body is freezing cold as he stares at the letter. He’s so cold he doesn’t feel himself being led over to Harvard’s car until Bob is putting him in the backseat with Callie. The beta’s arms reach up to wrap around him and he falls into her embrace.

“Wh-what’s—”

“Shh,” Callie says, “we planned for this. We’re taking you to Bob’s place and Mav is going to meet us there.”

His mom is coming. Jake’s fingers wrap around Callie’s hand she immediately holds on tight. “Don’t worry, we’re going to keep Bennion away from you.”

Jake thinks if he opens his mouth he’ll burst into tears so he just nods.

Bob quickly gets into the driver's seat and slams the door behind him, glancing at Jake in the rearview mirror. "We’re going to be okay, Jake. Just hang tight."

Callie’s presence is calming for Jake as she continues to hold his hand, her voice steady and soothing. "We’ve got this, Jake. You’re safe."

Bob pulls out of the parking lot, taking a sharp turn onto a side road that leads them away from the main routes. He keeps an eye on the mirrors, checking for any sign of a tail. "Stay alert, everyone. We don’t know if Bennion’s still around."

The tension in the car is palpable. Jake clings to Callie, his mind racing with fear and uncertainty. He knows they’re doing everything they can to keep him safe, but the memory of Bennion’s attempt to kidnap him still haunts him. Jake knows part of it is his fault, maybe if he never let Matt kiss him or believe that he would go with that madman.

As they weave through the quieter streets, Jake takes deep, shaky breaths, trying to calm himself. Callie’s grip on his hand is reassuring, her thumb gently stroking his skin.

“Bob,” Callie says, her voice low but firm, “how much longer?”

“About ten minutes,” Bob replies, his tone equally tense. “Mav should be there by the time we arrive.”

Jake’s heart pounds in his chest, the fear making it hard to think straight. He focuses on Callie’s touch and Bob’s calm determination, grounding himself in their presence. Neil’s got his phone to his ear talking to someone in rapid military shorthand.

Finally, they pull up to Bob’s place, the familiar peaceful home feels like a sanctuary just as it did when they came here after their date. As they park, they see another car already there—Pete, waiting as promised. Jake feels like he could cry in relief.

Bob jumps out first, quickly scanning the area before opening the door for Jake. "Come on, let's get inside."

Jake stumbles out, still clutching Callie’s hand. Pete strides over, his expression a mix of concern and resolve. "Jake, are you okay?"

Jake nods, his voice barely above a whisper. "Yeah, I think so."

Pete, in full protective military mode, looks at Bob, Callie, and Neil. “Good work. Let’s get inside and discuss our next steps."

Once they’re inside, the group moves to the living room. Pete’s presence brings a sense of authority and calm. “First, we need to secure the perimeter. Bob, you and Callie stay with Jake. Neil, do a perimeter check. I’ll call Rooster and Coyote and find out what’s happening back at the beach.”

Bob nods, his arm still around Jake’s shoulders. “Got it.”

Pete steps out to make a call, his voice fading as he moves further away. Jake slumps onto the couch, his body trembling with leftover adrenaline and fear. Bob sits beside him, pulling him into a tight hug. "You’re safe now, Jake. We won’t let anything happen to you."

Callie sits on Jake’s other side, her hand still firmly gripping his. "We’re all here for you, Jake. You’re not alone in this."

Jake leans into Bob, drawing strength from his alpha as he tries to calm his racing heart. Later, Jake knows he’ll question how they moved so effectively and what plan they had in place. “Thank you,” he murmurs, his voice shaking. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I-I know this is my fau-fault.”

“Don’t say that. You are not responsible for Bennion’s madness.” Bob kisses the top of Jake’s head. “We’re a pack, and we’ll always look out for each other.”

Pete returns, his face serious but composed. “Rooster and Coyote are on their way. Agent DiNozzo is on the scene and he’s looking over the evidence. There hasn’t been any sign of Bennion yet.”

Jake nods, his grip on Callie and Bob tightening. The fear is still there, but so is a flicker of hope. He grabs hold of the secure feeling that having his pack and his mother close gives him.

As the night progresses, they set up a watch rotation, ensuring someone is always awake and alert. Eventually, Bob ushers Jake into the bedroom they’d spent such a wonderful night in together only a few days before. “You need to rest.”

“But–”

“No, sleep, we’re safe here. Bennion doesn’t know about this place and he won’t find you.”

His bottom lip trembles slightly. “Stay with me?”

Bob smiles and climbs into bed with him, the alpha pulling Jake into his arms and holding him tight. “Always.” He presses a kiss to Jake’s lips. “I’ve got you, Love. Bennion won’t touch you.”

Notes:

Oh, also, if you're the "reader" who decided to send a hate comment and belittling message that was just factually incorrect (you know who you are) this is just a reminder that you're not welcome to read my work. :)

Chapter 8: The Shorebird Sanctuary

Summary:

Jake barely sleeps that night. Every sound makes him twitch and every low murmur from Pete and his brothers makes him strain to hear what’s being said. Bob is so patient, always there to soothe the fear away. He feels bad keeping Bob awake all night but the alpha doesn’t complain and his scent never shifts to something resembling anger or annoyance.

Notes:

*drops chapter and runs*

Jake barely sleeps that night. Every sound makes him twitch and every low murmur from Pete and his brothers makes him strain to hear what’s being said. Bob is so patient, always there to soothe the fear away. He feels bad keeping Bob awake all night but the alpha doesn’t complain and his scent never shifts to something resembling anger or annoyance.

By the time morning rolls around, Jake has barely slept but he’s too amped up to just lay in bed any longer. Jake slowly pulls himself from Bob’s arms, smiling a little when his mate tries to keep Jake in place. Bob’s fingers twitch where they’d been curled lightly around Jake’s waist, instinctively tightening for a heartbeat before relaxing again. His eyes don’t open, but he lets out a soft exhale, and Jake can feel the pull to stay. But the air in the room is starting to feel too thick, too quiet, too filled with the sound of his own thoughts—none of which are helpful.

He pads quietly across the room, careful not to wake Hermia, who’s fluffed into a perfect puffball inside her travel cage by the window. Bradley had made sure that Jake got her before Bob made Jake go to bed the night before. Morning light slants through the blinds in golden stripes, painting the soft rise and fall of her feathered body. Jake watches her for a moment, the sight of her chest moving steadily helping to ground him in a way nothing else seems to this morning.

The beach house is still and hushed, but there’s movement downstairs—a floorboard groaning under someone’s foot, a kettle whistling faintly from the kitchen. His mother, probably. Maybe one of the others. Jake doesn’t want to deal with his brothers or the rest of the squad yet, but Pete… that’s different. His mother has always been who he went to when he needed someone.

He pulls on one of Bob’s hoodies from where it hangs on a nearby chair, the fabric already worn soft with age and comfort. It swallows him whole, sleeves hanging past his fingers, the scent of Bob wrapped around him like a shield. That helps too.

The hallway smells like salt and pinewood and distant coffee. The beach house creaks the way old houses do, like it’s still stretching its bones after a long sleep. Jake moves carefully, one hand brushing along the wall to steady himself. He’s getting stronger—he knows that—but some mornings his chest still feels like someone carved into him yesterday.

What happened yesterday doesn’t help.

By the time he reaches the kitchen, Pete’s already there, standing by the open back door with a mug in his hand. He’s staring out toward the dunes, the way the sea grass bends in the wind. His shoulders are hunched just slightly, like he’s deep in thought or bracing against something only he can see.

Jake hesitates in the doorway, the tile cool beneath his feet. He doesn’t want to interrupt whatever that is, but he also doesn’t want to be alone right now.

Pete turns before Jake can say anything, like he felt him there.

“Couldn’t sleep?” he asks, voice quiet and even. Not judging. Just knowing. The way he always had since the moment Jake could remember.

Jake shrugs and crosses the threshold, his chest pulling tight in that old way—not from the surgery, but from the part of him that never really knows what to say when he feels like this. Jake flashes back to that day when Slider found him hiding in his bedroom. Jake wonders what would have changed if he had let Slider call his parents back then. Would Matt still be around now?

“No,” Jake admits. “Too wired, I guess.”

Pete gestures toward the deck. “Come sit. Air’s good this morning.”

Jake nods, follows him outside, and eases down onto one of the wide, weathered benches built into the deck railing. From here, the ocean is visible beyond the stretch of beach grass and driftwood—soft gray waves curling and breaking like the tide’s trying not to wake anyone.

They sit like that for a few minutes, not speaking. Jake tucks his legs up, hoodie pulled tight around him, and breathes.

“You used to sleep like a rock,” Pete says eventually. “Storm could knock a tree down next door and you wouldn’t even flinch. Even when you were at your worst, you slept through anything.”

“Yeah, well,” Jake murmurs, eyes fixed on the horizon. “Things are different now.”

Pete hums in agreement and takes a sip from his coffee. “They are. But different doesn’t have to mean worse.”

The silence that settles between them isn’t sharp or cold—it’s the kind that comes when too much has happened in too short a time, and words are struggling to catch up. Jake tugs at a loose thread on the cuff of Bob’s hoodie, fingers twitching with nerves he doesn’t quite know what to do with. The question’s been stuck in his throat since yesterday, and now, with the morning quiet and no one else around to hear, he lets it slip out.

“Were you upset?” he asks, voice low. “That Bob brought me here?”

Pete doesn’t answer immediately. He doesn’t need to. He sets the mug carefully on the railing beside him, then folds his hands loosely in his lap, eyes still on the dunes and the glint of sun off the water. When he speaks, his voice is measured, thoughtful—but not cold.

“No, Jake. Not upset. Just… shaken. Bradley’s call came out of nowhere, and all I could think was whether you were safe. Whether your heart could take the stress.” He glances sideways at Jake. “I’ve seen you survive a lot. But I also know how fast things can go bad.”

Jake’s jaw tightens a little, not in anger but in recognition. He knows Pete’s not being dramatic. He’s seen the same charts, heard the same emergency room alarms. Felt the same panic in his own chest—sometimes literally.

Pete lets out a breath. “I didn’t know Bob had this place. Didn’t know he was planning to bring you here. But once I got over the initial hit of it, I was grateful. This house… it’s quiet. Tucked away. Feels safe.”

Jake nods. He presses his knees up a little closer to his chest, tucking the hoodie tighter around him. “It is safe.”

Another small sound filters through the open door behind them—the soft creak of Hermia shifting on her perch, followed by a faint, questioning chirp. Like she’s checking to see if anyone else is awake.

Pete turns his head toward the sound, the lines around his mouth easing. “She still on California time?”

“She doesn’t know what time it is ever,” Jake says, cracking a faint smile. “But she likes the window. I think the salt air makes her feel important.”

Pete chuckles under his breath. “She always did like to supervise. You used to read out loud to her when you thought no one was listening.”

Jake shrugs, not quite embarrassed. “She has good taste.”

“And a sharp tongue,” Pete adds. “Just like you.”

Jake huffs something between a laugh and a sigh. “Yeah, well. Some things don’t change.”

Pete doesn’t say anything to that, but he doesn’t have to. He just leans back against the deck rail, gaze steady on the horizon, close enough to reach if Jake needed him—but far enough to let him breathe.

Jake rubs his eyes when he feels tears burning in his eyes. “Where’s Pops and Dad?”

Pete turns around so he’s leaning with his back against the porch railing. “They’re at home, working through whatever intel they can. DiNozzo doesn’t want to involve them too much but remaining on the sidelines is not something either Tom or Beau are very good at.”

The sound of the back porch opening catches their attention. “You okay, J.T.?” Bradley asks. He sits on the bench next to the blond.

Jake almost answers with and automatic “I’m fine” but his throat closes up when he tries. Instead, he just drops his head on his brother’s shoulder and tries not to burst into tears. He’s so tired. All Jake wants is to have some normalcy but he has to deal with a crazy stalker instead. “I just want this to be over,” he whispers.

Bradley wraps an arm around his little brother’s shoulders. “I know. We’ll figure it out, promise.”

_____

The restaurant is tucked along a stretch of beach just outside Coronado, one of those places with soft lighting, a view of the ocean, and just enough buzz to feel lively without being loud. Jake picked it because Matt had just come off a brutal rotation—weeks of overseas training and long silences between spotty phone calls—and Jake had wanted the evening to be easy. Familiar. A small way of saying, You made it home.

Matt had shaved but skipped the tie, his sleeves rolled to his elbows, still walking like he was navigating enemy territory instead of a wine list. Jake had smiled when they sat down, touching the back of Matt’s hand lightly. “You look good,” he’d said.

Matt had smiled back. Not wide, but enough.

Jake can’t help but wonder if this is how it works. If the cold smiles and annoyed glances are what relationships are like. This is better than Jake going from alpha to alpha, right?

They’re midway through appetizers—Jake sipping a glass of iced tea while Matt nurses a beer—when a voice calls out, sharp with recognition: “Dr. Seresin?”

Jake turns, half-surprised. A young lieutenant—dark-haired, fresh-faced, a little too eager—approaches their table with wide eyes. Jake sets his glass down, already preparing to wave it off. But the kid’s already smiling, hands twitching like he’s not sure whether to salute or shake hands.

“I’m sorry to interrupt, sir. I just—wanted to say thank you.” He gestures toward Jake. “You really helped me figure out that intercept sequence last week. I stuck the landing. First time I’ve pulled that off clean. I’ve been trying to crack it for months.”

Jake softens. “You did the work, Lieutenant. I just pointed at the right page in the manual.”

The student laughs, shaking his head. “Still. I appreciate it. Wasn’t expecting to run into you here.”

Jake gives him a polite nod. “Enjoy your evening.”

The lieutenant hesitates like he wants to say more, then thinks better of it and walks off, disappearing into a corner booth with a group of friends.

Jake turns back to the table, expecting maybe a smirk from Matt, a joke about being recognized. But Matt’s face has gone still. Not blank—tight. The kind of quiet Jake’s learned to watch for.

Jake sets down his fork. “What?”

Matt leans back in his seat, eyes narrowed. “Was that supposed to impress me?”

Jake blinks. “What?”

“All that smiling. That little touch on his arm when he said thanks.”

Jake frowns. “Matt, he’s one of my students. He was being polite. I was being polite back.”

Matt snorts. “Looked like more than being polite to me.”

Jake draws in a slow breath. “It wasn’t. You know it wasn’t.”

“Do I?”

There’s a sharpness in Matt’s voice now, low and cutting. His hand curls around his beer like it’s the only thing keeping him grounded. Jake watches the tension in his shoulders, the shift from annoyed to something darker.

Jake leans in, voice quieter. “You know I’m with you. I came here with you. I’ve never given you a reason to doubt that.”

Matt doesn’t look convinced. He stares out past Jake’s shoulder, jaw clenched tight. “Guys like that think just because you smiled at them, they’ve got a shot.”

Jake’s stomach knots. “That’s not my fault.”

Matt doesn’t answer. Just lifts his beer and drains what’s left in one swallow.

The rest of dinner passes in uneasy silence, the earlier warmth evaporating like mist under heat. Jake keeps replaying the conversation in his head, wondering how a moment so small could spiral so fast. He doesn’t say much after that—just watches as Matt signs the check when it comes, leaves a mediocre tip, Jake slips a few extra bills into the bill presenter when Matt isn’t looking. As they walk to the car, Jake watches Matt from the corner of his eye.

Matt’s not angry in the loud, explosive way Jake has seen in others. No—Matt’s quiet. Cold. The kind of fury that gets stored away, compacted like pressure in a steel drum. The kind that waits.

And Jake, still aching from the last time he’d tossed him aside like used goods, suddenly feels bone-tired. Not from dinner. Not from walking.

From the weight of having to explain, again, that being kind isn’t a betrayal. Maybe it’s time he be alone for a while.

_____

They stay out on the porch for a while before Bradley notices that Jake is shivering in the morning air. He and Pete insist on taking Jake inside. When they step through the doors, Javy is in the kitchen cooking breakfast with Bob and Hermia is happily munching on her seeds in the little area Bob set up for her.

All Jake wants to do right now is cry, but he refuses to give in to that. Matt doesn’t deserve Jake’s tears, not anymore. Jake is going to go back to work on Monday, and he’s going to do well. Agent DiNozzo is going to find Matt and put a stop to him, Jake has to believe that or he’s going to go crazy.

Hermia ruffles her wings before flying over to perch on his shoulder. “What doin’?” she asks.

Jake smiles in spite of himself. “Good morning, Pretty Girl.”

Hermia nuzzles beneath his jaw, her little claws careful on the fabric of his hoodie. Her feathers are warm, soft, a welcome contrast to the chill still clinging to Jake’s skin. He cups a hand gently around her back, grounding himself in her presence.

Bradley disappears into the guest room to grab a blanket while Pete murmurs something about tea, retreating toward the kitchen.

Jake stays rooted to the threshold for a moment, eyes scanning the room. Everything smells like cinnamon and eggs and good coffee. The kind of domestic calm that should feel foreign but doesn’t, not here, not with Bob at the stove and Javy humming under his breath like he belongs.

Bob turns as if he senses the weight in the doorway. He wipes his hands on a dish towel and crosses the room without hesitation.

“You okay?” Bob asks, voice low, warm. Not pushing. Just… there.

Jake swallows hard and nods, though the tightness in his chest says otherwise. “Getting there.”

Bob doesn’t press. He just wraps an arm around Jake’s shoulders, slow and steady, like he’s easing them both into the moment. Jake leans in without thinking, letting his weight fall into Bob’s side. Hermia chirps her approval and hops a little higher on Jake’s shoulder to observe from her new perch.

“You hungry?” Bob asks.

Jake shrugs. “Not really. But I could try.”

“You don’t have to do anything,” Bob reminds him gently. “But food helps. You’ll feel steadier after. I promise.”

Jake nods again, more to show he heard than because he agrees.

Javy glances up from the pan, offering a lopsided grin. “We’re making breakfast sandwiches. Bacon, eggs, and cheese on toasted brioche. Military-grade comfort food.”

Jake huffs a soft laugh, surprised by how much tension that smile loosens in his back. “Sounds… pretty great, honestly.”

“Damn right it does,” Javy says, flipping an egg with more flair than necessary. “Also, Hermia gets her own special breakfast. Birdie charcuterie.”

At her name, Hermia lets out a trill that sounds dangerously close to a smug yes, and Jake finds himself smiling again.

Bradley reappears with a blanket and drapes it carefully over Jake’s shoulders. “Sit down. Let us take care of you for a while.”

Jake does. He sinks into the nearest kitchen chair, letting the warmth of the blanket and Bob’s presence and Hermia’s silly chatter all wrap around him like a shield. He watches as Bob returns to the stove, picking up where Javy left off like they’ve been sharing a kitchen for years. There’s something comforting in their rhythm—like a silent conversation playing out in gestures and glances, laughter tucked between movements.

Jake rests his head in his hands for a moment. Just breathing. Just being.

“I’m going to be okay,” he says aloud, softly.

No one corrects him. No one doubts him.

Pete sets a mug down beside him. “You already are, kid.”

Jake looks up, eyes burning but dry. “Thanks.”

“For the tea?” Pete deadpans, but there’s warmth behind the joke.

“For all of it.”

Pete’s hand lands on Jake’s shoulder, firm and steady. “Anytime.”

Jake looks between the three late arrivals, taking in their sun-bleached hoodies, the wind-tousled hair, the glint of salt still clinging to their skin. There’s sand on Phoenix’s calves, a damp spot on the hem of Yale’s shorts, and Harvard’s dragging in a foldable grill like it weighs nothing.

“Did you guys go swimming already?” Jake asks, startled.

“Nope,” Phoenix says, popping the p. “Recon. Found the perfect spot with a little cove. Calm water, good privacy, and barely any foot traffic. We even found a firepit already built out.”

“We have blankets, coolers, beach games, sunscreen, two Bluetooth speakers, and a plan,” Yale adds as he sets down a massive tote with practiced flair. “You’re not allowed to say no.”

Harvard drops a hand on Jake’s head, gently mussing his hair. “This is a recover from psychos weekend. House rules.”

Jake opens his mouth to protest again—because it’s what he does, because guilt dies hard—but Pete walks by and gives his shoulder a gentle squeeze.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart,” Pete says, not missing a beat. “Take the day to relax. Don’t let Matt ruin your weekend.”

That shuts Jake up.

He swallows against the knot in his throat and watches as Javy and Bob move around the kitchen like it’s theirs, laughing and swapping spatulas while Hermia chirps from her perch and tries to mimic Yale’s whistle. Phoenix slides a tray of pastries onto the counter like she’s done it every morning of her life. Bradley’s handing out mugs of coffee, the good stuff, dark and rich, and Jake’s plate is piled so high he might need help getting through it.

He’s not alone.

And even though the part of him still curled up in fear keeps whispering that this won’t last, that the damage is too deep, too close—he’s choosing not to listen. Not today.

Today, he’ll eat until he’s full, sit in the sun, and maybe even let himself float in the ocean. He’ll let the people who love him hold him up for a little while longer.

Jake looks around the kitchen, at the people who’ve made this house feel like a haven instead of a hiding place.

“Okay,” he says. “Beach day it is.”

Phoenix grins like she just won a bet.

The room breaks into easy conversation again, the kind that wraps around him like warmth, like forgiveness, like home. Jake sits back in his chair, his bird preening on his shoulder, sunlight pushing in through the windows like a promise.

And for the first time in weeks, maybe longer, Jake feels like he can breathe.

Let Matt try to take this from him. Jake’s not going anywhere.

Notes:

*waves* Hi, I know, I'm terrible. I have no idea why but I lost my motivation to write for a while but it's beginning to come back. I hope you enjoyed this chapter!

Notes:

So how do we like this beginning?

Also, throw some interesting bird species/facts into the comments for...reasons :)

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 2 of Heartbeats & Bird Nests