Family Affairs Part 1
Phoenix took over driving with Bob Navigating but they managed to make it back to Top Gun where they ditched the trailer and make their way to go shopping.
Phoenix: So Cal likes cars and planes right?
Bob: Sure does! He also loves math and is already at the 4th grade level and he really enjoys building things. I thought I would get him one of those buildable RC trucks, book of math problems… And then I want to see if I can finally afford one of those mini drones he’s been bugging me about.
Phoenix: Easy Day! Why don’t I get him the drone? That way I can also score some cool points.. Going to need to build some personal capital wit him after all.
Bob: Are you sure? They can get pricey.
Nix Gives Bob a smug look.
Phoenix: I can get pricey so that’s nothing new.
Since we are on the topic, I know you try to be frugal and pinch pennies while I like my fancy stuff…Now I wouldn’t expect you to facilitate that as I respect you for being disciplined and the way you take care of your kids first but… Does it intimidate you that I come from a wealthy family?
Bob: Not at all! My family does OK in the upper-middle class as dad Retired from the navy with a good pension after 35 years but he is in demand with his unique skills of counter-intelligence, infiltration, and as a civilian sniper instructor at Dam Neck still.
Mom is also A Licensed Practitioner.
They offer to help me out all the time but I have managed to get by without it.
I asked them to put it towards Cal and Shell’s college fund instead.
I still would like to buy you nice things from time to time.
Phoenix: Well OK But, Oreos are fine too.
Bob smiles at her.
Bob: Is my lower status an issue for you however? Would your family be Ok with hit?
Phoenix: totally cool with it! Most rich guys have massive egos and don’t know what a tough day looks like.
But you are humble, kind, and defiantly can take a beating.
My Dad is Probably going to love you because he has a humble upbringing in New York and he is also a Jesus freak with never missing Mass, and donating to Samaritans purse and other charities.
He worked hard to get his commission for the Navy where he used his skills as a pilot when he was discharged to fly commercial and make some damn good investments.
Although we have a mansion back home with assets to spare, Dad is still a Jeans and t-shirt kind of guy while still shopping at thrift stores.
Mom is the reason why we have all the Gucci stuff. That’s where I get it from. She owns her own Boutique back home with big name Clients such as members of Congress and a few celebrities.
Bob: That’s amazing Nix! Bu what made you want to fly and not make custom dresses?
Phoenix: Dad is my hero. He’s a lot like you with his humility, kindness and generosity but I wanted to give back to my country while also proving that I could do something challenging without just buying it.
I might like the finer things in life but I also believe in hard work.
Bob gently takes her hand.
Bob: That’s Obvious and I love your drive. Female Aviators are few in the Navy but your record is remarkably distinguished. I am proud of you the the way.
Phoenix: Aww, Your not so bad yourself finishing second at Annapolis… I know there were tons of people at the Academy but since I was only a year ahead of you, I can’t remember ever running into you.
Bob smiles gently.
Bob: But I remember you. You were nice to me even then.
Phoenix: What!? What do you remember me from?
I was in my third year while you were about to graduate outside the main entrance trying to get cell reception. You Bumped into me on accident and dropped your books.
You were apologizing to me left and right while I thought nothing of it.
Then you saw that you wrecked my dress shoes when you stepped on them and you insisted on buying me a new pair to which you did and they were the nice ones.
Phoenix has a dumb look on her face.
Phoenix: THAT WAS YOU!???
No way! But you weren’t wearing glasses that day!
And geez, you looked so young! You still do but I thought were 12 ha-ha!
But… You also were full of life the way you would smile at me whenever we passed each other.
Now that I think of it, I swear I’m starting to see it again.
Bob: It really is…Because I get to see my kids tomorrow but I am also enjoying our time together.
I don’t get to be wild and crazy outside the cockpit and this has brought me a lot of smiles Nat… YOU have brought me a lot of smiles. Thank you for all of this no matter what.
Phoenix: Yeah… No matter what, Even if we don’t end up together… We sure as hell had a great time but… WE ARE MOVING REALLY FUCKING FAST ROBERT!
Bob let’s out a sigh.
Bob: Even though we agreed to keep our speed to 200 Knots, last night’s dogfight with Gambit had us increase to 600 but now…Now that we should be slowing down again because of tomorrow, I am dying to see what happens if we go full-on Afterburner.
Phoenix: And I don’t hate it either. Lets just do our best to stay grounded tomorrow.
We don’t want to make everyone think we are official without a heads up.
And you have to tell your In-Laws as well! HOW ARE THEY GOING TO HANDLE US?!!
Bob: I wish I knew… I could see them being supportive yet betrayed.
They have been so good to me over the years.
They are raising Cal and Shell while I finish this out and they will always be a part of my life as they are Grandparents.
Even if I didn’t have kids, I would still want to have them in my life.
I just hope they can understand that I will l never forget Carrie but I can also begin again.
We were together for 9 wonderful years but now that I’m 28, I consider I could be alone for a long time even after the kids leave and make their own way in life.
More importantly, You came along and while I swear to you that I not Killing loneliness, I just really enjoy being with you.
Phoenix: We established that we are nt using each other so I am not worried about that part, but we will have to be careful on our approach. Could you go against their wishes if you don’t get their approval?
Bob has a defeated look on his face but lets outa deep sigh.
Bob: Its going to hurt but I cant deny what I feel for you. I will deal with the fallout if it comes to pass but my children's opinions will be the deciding factor.
Phoenix: Without question… If we get a no-go from them, we are going to have to figure out how we go back to being just co-workers… Its going to be difficult because I just want to wreck your face with mine.
Adulting is hard Bob.
Bob chuckles but he understands her points.
Bob: At least we are always going to know we have each others respect and loyalty. Maybe we both spend the rest of our lifes as single seaters but we will always be friends on the ground….
Wait a minute!
Crazy proposition for you!
Phoenix: I love crazy! What you got?
Bob: So if we get shot down by the kids, what about we start dating officially once they turn 18? I mean they are on their own by then and dad gets to do what dad wants after that.
Phoenix laughs at him.
Phoenix: That’s now that works. You are always going to be their dad. But….I see your point…
That said, I have a counter offer for you that may work to our advantage.
Bob: Ok, lets hear it!
Phoenix: Even if they disapprove, Whats the harm in in me stopping by once their in bed to get some ground training with dance, a roll on the matts, and…. Some Adult education?
Bob: Well, Even a good Christian man may make missteps… I might need that rosary back from you though.
They both start laughing hysterically at each other.
Phoenix: Am I bad influence on you Robert Floyd?
Bob: Justa touch Ms. Trace but you are the best worst one I have ever met.
Phoenix: I will take that as a compliment.
Bob: As you should.
Phoenix: I love how we seem to navigate our issues with a sense of humor and a willingness to bend but not break.
Bob: May we always be kind and respectful to each other.
Phoenix: Always.
Phoenix: SO If we go on, and you get out, are you willing to follow me wherever my service takes me? That may include a post overseas for a few years but what would your kids think about that?
Bob: I would be willing to move around in a heartbeat as I have greatly enjoyed traveling and seeing new things… I have even considered transferring out of being a WSO and getting something more 9 to 5 with my engineering degree.
Phoenix: The Navy needs good men and women for sure! I encourage you to stay if you can but your children get a vote.
Bob: Can I say I love the way you consider them? It makes me feel like I am with somebody that truly believes in family.
Phoenix: Because I do Bob. I come from a wonderful family myself, but I gave up on that after getting my heart broken so many times.
Please don’t break mine. I have let my guard down around you and am showing my true colors.
Bob looks at her with a gentle resolve.
Bob: I assure you what you see is what you get as well. I do not deal in lies, or disrespect.
We both have a caring nature about others even if we don’t wear it on our sleeves.
What I mean is I am just shy but I do care for everyone around me, but You have had to build your walls up as a woman in an alpha-male dominated world. I may be wrong but that’s the feeling I get.
Phoenix: Pretty much. That big brain of yours is kind of hot honestly. I can talk to you about real stuff and you don’t try and make it about sex…. But I mean you do like sex right?
Bob: If this morning’s little naked adventure wasn’t enough to clue you in, how about another round this evening… Just kidding of course.
Nix slaps his arm playfully.
Phoenix: Nah, we probably shouldn’t do that again and until we get approval from your children.
Bob: But of course, Lab Specimens 0-1, and 0-2 must be included in this equation.
Phoenix: YOU JUST CALLED YOUYR KIDS A SCIENCE PROJECT!!???
That’s awful….but funny!
Nix is laughing hysterically.
Bob: Its true, if you think about it, the process involved Friction, Penetration, lubrication, Biological-
Phoenix has herd hand over face looking down shaking her head.
Phoenix: Just stop you big nerd.
My God dude! One minute you’re the sweetest guy ever and the next you geek out over Physics and Biology.
Why do I like you again?
Just kidding… NEVER CHANGE!.
But anyhow,So Mom is bringing Shelley one of her own custom dresses but what else I she into?
Bob smiles.
Bob: Would you believe me if I said she also loves to dance?
She’s well versed in Ballet, Salsa, and Modern Pop, but she’s pretty good at tango, Salsa, and Line Dancing as well.
Phoenix: Well, I got the dress covered but why don’t we get her some new shoes as well?
Bob: I love that! She could really use a new pair!
Phoenix: I’m taking her on a date too. Just a girls nigh tout where she can relax… What did she do for fun before Carrie passed?
Bob: She had fun.
She enjoyed being in plays and musicals with her friends but she also used to play the arcade all the time that was right next to the dance studio.
Phoenix: That’s all I need to know. Were going to have fun together. Its really important that they know I care about you and that I also care about them.
I know I say my career is my priority but that’s because I thought a family is something I would never have.
Bob: AND I thought I would never connect with another woman myself. Not like this.
From the outside looking in, I would never date a coworker, a completely independent woman would leave me feeling insecure and like I couldn’t offer them anything, along with being so outgoing.
But now. With you, I don’t feel that way at all. Can you forgive my ignorance?
Phoenix: Easily… IF you can forgive mine.
They smile at each other as she parks the truck at the mall.
Phoenix: OK, lets go shopping!
The two finish shopping and return to Nix’s Suite to wrap the gifts where they continue their conversations and more.
Phoenix: Bob, I can’t wait to see their faces when they open these! I mean, its kind of like when my little brother and sister open my gifts to them.
Bob: That’s it for sure!
Just then, Bob’s Phone goes off as a Video Call from his In-Laws.
Bob: Hide the gifts quick! This is my In-Laws and the kids are probably with them.
Nix rushes to throw them over the couch as they both start laughing at the lazy attempt.
Phoenix: What? Nothing’s breakable.
Bob does his Best to answer the call without chuckling.
Bob: Hey Cheryl… Wes, How’s it going?
Wes: Hey Bob! So we made excellent time and will be in San Diego in about 20 minutes!
Cheryl: we figured we would try to surprise you if we could! I know Shelley told you they were going to school today but we wanted to sell the surprise.
Phoenix is out of view of the call but she has a panicked look on her face.
Bob: OH THAT’S AWESOME! How’s the kids?
Shelley moves in to the camera’s view to wave with a smile.
Shelley: Dad! Were great. Cant wait to see you….But, where are you? Is that a hotel?
Phoenix moves closer to Bob and shows herself on the Camera.
Phoenix: Hey Shell, Your dad is here with me as we were getting ready to surprise you and Calvin wit something but.. Looks like you beat us to it!
Calvin pops up into the camera.
Calvin; I love surprises!
Wes angles the camera toward him and Cheryl.
Wes: Is that your Pilot Bob?
Phoenix: Guilty Sir. I’m Natasha Trace. Or Just Nat or Nix for short. Its nice to finally meet you Both!
Cheryl: You as well, Robert speaks so highly of you. Thank you for taking care of him and getting him back to his babies.
Wes: Yes, we understand you to be his best Pilot he has ever worked with.
Phoenix: That’s right back at him! He’s truly the best WSO’s we have.
I look forward to meeting you all but if you wish to all be alone this evening I understand.
Cheryl: Is your family here yet Natasha?
Phoenix: No, Dad is flying them out tomorrow and my Older Brother will be along tomorrow evening.
Wes: Well, its up to you if you would like to come along but we would be more than happy to see you as well.
Calvin: Me too! I’m dying to pick her brain about flying the Hornet!
Phoenix giggles with a happy smile.
Phoenix: Well maybe I let you in the cockpit tomorrow? Just don’t touch anything.
She winks at him.
Shelley: I’m fine with it. She did keep Dad alive after all.
Wes: Where would you like to meet? Our hotel is in Coronado.
Bob: Its not Hilton is it?
Cheryl: IT IS! Is that where you are now!?
Phoenix: Sure is! What are you driving so we can look for you?
Carl: It’s a grey Suburban California rental plates.
Phoenix: Got it. Were in a sweet on the 4th floor overlooking the Bay and parking lot so I will keep and eye out and Send Bob down immediately when I see you.
Wes: Excellent! Thank you we will see you soon.
Bob: Sounds great I love you all.
Cheryl: we Love you too!
Bob hangs up and gives Nix a wild Look.
Phoenix: MOVE YOUR ASS BOB! We got to finish wrapping!
Bob: YEP!
15 minutes later and Nix Sees them pull in.
Phoenix: They are here! Get down there and I will bring the gifts down once yo have some private time.
Bob: Thanks Nix.
He goes to kiss her softly but she stops him.
Phoenix: Lipstick Bob! We don’t want your family getting the wrong idea before we tell them…. But… OH SHIT!
Nix Looks down and sees her teeth marks and a bruise on his Collar bone.
Phoenix: You gotta try to keep that covered up! I’m sorry I did that to you now.
Bob smirks at her and kisses her forehead.
Bob: I’m not!
Bob: I will see you down there Nix.
Phoenix smiles: Enjoy them! I’m so Happy for you.
Bob gets to the Hotel Lobby and is Immediately greeted by his kids as they run up to him and Bob Grabs Cal with one arm and Hugs Shelley tightly with the other and are al laughing and crying together.
Bob: I have missed you both so much! I love you two with all that I have… I want to thank you for letting me do what must be done.
Calvin: We know Daddy. Glad your home safe!
Shelley: Thank God… One more deployment down! How many do you think you have?
Bob: Hopefully not too many more… or any if I can help it.
Shelley: You deployed a lot in 6 years Dad. I wish you didn’t have too anymore.
Bob: I know, I know. Just two more years.. We are almost there.
Bob releases them as Cheryl and Wes make their way to Bob to hug him.
Bob: Mom, Dad, Thank you so much for all of this!
Bob has tears running down his face with a humble smile.
Cheryl: Of course dear, you are family. Welcome home Robert.
Wes: So glad you are ok Rob. Welcome home.
Bob: Thanks Dad.
Calvin: Hey Dad, what’s the surprise?
Shelley gives Bob a look like she’s already aware of the “surprise” after she spoke with Nix this morning.
Bob: Nix and I bought you both some gifts.
Calvin: She bought us something too!?
Bob: She sure did! She’s my best friend and since I matter to her, you both matter as well… Now Natasha doesn’t have her own kids and didn’t ever plan on getting married so she kind of wanted to spoil both of you since she is my coworker.
Please be kind when you all meet her.
Shelley: I will, but if she makes just one power play as a rich bitch, I am going to wreck her.
Cheryl: Shelley! Watch your mouth!
Calvin: Well I think she’s pretty! And she seems really nice.
Bob: She is nice so long as you use your manners.
Calvin: Yes sir.
Just then, The elevator opens as Nix has her hands full of gift for the kids but her smile does everybody in as they can see how much she cares about Bob and them.
Bob’s In-laws walk causally but Bob and his kids run to her as Bob takes the gifts while nix goes to hug Shelley.
Phoenix: Its Nice to finally meet you Shell, Thanks for taking care of everything else and your little brother while I borrowed your dad for work.
Shelly speaks in a soft tone.
Shelley: and thanks for bringing him back to us Nat. Really… Thank you.
Nix pulls away slowly to smile at her and even Shelley gets a funny feeling to see Nix’s eyes shining brightly as if they are on fire.
Calvin stands Next to Shelly Looking up at Nix with huge eyes of excitement, yet he is nervous and slowly holds out his hand to shake hers because he remembers his dad telling him to have manners.
Nix looks down to see him and immediately crouches to his level and shakes his hand gently with a confident smirk.
Phoenix: It’s nice to meet you Cal. A young man with manners is rare these days but do you accept hugs?
Cal goes in for a tight hug as nix Gently returns it and whispers.
Phoenix: Thank you for letting your dad help me fly. He’s the best one ever and very brave.
Calvin replies through his tears.
Calvin: That’s him alright.
Nix can feel how the little guy is very emotional, so she keeps him held while she rubs his tiny back.
Phoenix: Your dad is my best friend, but I hope we can be friends too or at least share your dad from time to time.
Cal slowly breaks off as he tries to wipes tears from his eyes but nods at nix with his eyes fixated on hers and while both of them are full of emotion, Cal isn’t scared of her fiery eyes and nix isn’t scared of his stormy eyes either.
Calvin: Its deal Ms. Natasha. I can share him but I need him more because I’m not an adult yet.
Nix Giggles at him.
Phoenix: Good point. He’s all yours after work but I might join you guys for that too but I promise not to get in the way.
Cheryl Walks up to Phoenix first as she stands to greet her with a gentle Hug:
Phoenix: Cheryl! It’s a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for taking care of them. They mean world to Bob… He spoke of them every chance he got. He’s a wonderful man.
Cheryl: Kind words form a Kind Lady Natasha. Thanks for being his friend… He needs those too.
Wes Goes to shake Nix’s hand but she just goes to hug him instead.
Phoenix: I’m glad to meet you Wes. I am excited to know you and Cheryl more.
Wes: As am I Nat, You are too Kind. Thank you so much for looking after Bob.
Phoenix: Well, we kind of look out for each other now.
Wes and Bob get the checked in to their rooms and everyone else follows behind with Phoenix talking Non stop To Shelley Abou tall the different dresses that her mom can get her.
Cheryl is starting to really warm up to Nix as she can see how engaged she is with her grandchildren.
Once they all get to a room, Cal and Shelley open their gift from Bob first and they love them.
But now Nix gets to give the drone to Cal and really hopes he likes it.
Phoenix: Now Shell, your gift from me is coming tomorrow as my mom is bringing it along and I did confirm she packed it but Calvin, I wanted you to have this from me as well.
Cal unwraps the gift but starts to yell excitedly as he figures out it’s the one he wanted.
Cal: Thank you Ma’am! Thank you so much this is great! But… I never got you anything. I’m so Sorry!
Phoenix gives him a smirk.
Phoenix: You just did Cal, You gave me a huge smile that I could get used to seeing more often.
Cal nods with a smile but then hugs Nix tightly once again but she’s loving it.
Phoenix: I though you said he doesn’t warm up to people Bob?
Cal: I usually don’t but it’s not every day I meet a real fighter pilot… And dad kept me far away from his last one!
Nix starts laughing as she continues to hold the little guy in her arms with a very happy face.
Phoenix: trust me, your dad is very wise to keep you away form her.. she’s not very nice.
But I promise you I am nice and I really do care about your dad, you and your big sister.
Cal softly speaks.
Cal: You had me at fighter pilot but you really are more than that aren’t you? Thanks for everything.
Can you fly the drone with me tomorrow please?
Phoenix: Gladly you little gentleman.
Shelley: Careful Bro, girls have cooties remember?
Everybody chuckles lightly at this.
Bob wipes the happy tears from his eyes as he is emotionally overwhelmed by Nix falling in with his kids and they are embracing her as well.
But he is beside himself since Calvin is really taking a liking to her when he has been very reserved in the past to most women.
Bob Thinks to himself “Like father like son.”
Cheryl Notices Bobs emotions and comes to his side.
Cheryl: Is everything alright Robert?
Bob nods to Cheryl but he just hugs her tightly.
Cheryl: You have had big day haven’t you? Lets get some air and do you think you could help me get the rest of the suitcases?
Bob: Good idea Mom.
As they walk out the door, Nix shoots Bob a happy smile she's now got Cal accross her lap and in her arms on the couch while he’s starting to fall sleep and yawn but Nix and Shell are talking about more dance outfits.
Bob returns her smile with a gentle and grateful one.
As Bob and Cheryl get outside, Cheryl tries her best to be there for her son in law that she loves greatly.
Cheryl: I love seeing you happy Robert, your children have missed you so much and it makes me so happy to see you with them again.
Bob: I can t wait until I can be with them all the time again!
I cant thank you enough for helping us! I love you and Wes so much Mom!
Cheryl goes back to hugging him.
Cheryl: We do too Bob. You will always be Family to us with the way you and Carrie loved God together and each other. You were so good to her and you made her so happy.
But…I don’t mean to intrude Robert and its none of my business but your Pilot really seems to make you happy as well and even I can see how much you two share a strong bond, Have you considered dating again?
Again its not my place but I could understand if you were to start dating again.
Bob starts shaking and stutters his speech as he tries to stops the tears.
Bob: Its very much your business and Wes’s too!
But to hear you say you could understand how I feel, I just am so humbled to hear that.
I feel this a conversation for Wes as well as I seek his approval.
Bobs shaking is getting more violent.
Wes followed them to the Suburban and surprises them both as he open the hatch to the back of the truck.
Wes: Take a seat Robert, and try to relax. To hear you say all of that does my heart well to know how careful you are trying to be.
Bobs nods as he slowly sits in the back of the truck.
Cheryl: Robert, The Lord has found favor in your ways and he continues to bless us all as we try to walk by faith.
God gave you a friend who cares for you and your children very deeply even if they are not hers.
Wes: Natasha is a special Woman Rob, Now, I have only know her briefly but just to see her interactions with our family, her dignity, respect, and loving nature… God is at work here.
I appreciate your considerations to us but it is not good for a man to be alone.
That all being said, If you were to begin a relationship again, I beg you to be careful and take it slowly.
They all get a surprise as Nix announces her presence as well with that incredible confidence of hers as she speaks to them from behind.
Phoenix: We had every attention to move slowly Mr. and Mrs. Marston.
We are both grateful for your approval but we both agree that Calvin and Shelley must also approve as they are Bob’s main priority along with his faith and I can absolutely respect that as Bob understands that my priority is my career. And I want you to know that although I am not ready to make God my number one commitment, I grew up in a strict Catholic household and I acknowledge Bobs commitment to faith and he does influence me as well.
Bob and I have cheated death together multiple times together and we trust each other completely and we are both fiercely loyal to each other and we gladly serve each other as best friends first.
Phoenix Starts to walk to Bob and take his side as she starts rubbing his shoulders.
Bob: How's the kids doing Nix?
Phoenix: Cal’s asleep holding his plush Tiger and Shell is lacing up the new shoes. They are good Bob…
Gotta ask you though, Any chance that tiger’s names is Hobbes?
Bob’s face lights up.
IT IS!
Wes and Cheryl let out a laugh.
Phoenix: AHHH! I FREAKING LOVE THAT LITTLE GUY! I HAVE THE ENTIRE COLLECTION OF BOOKS BY BILLWATERSON!
Bob: Yep, Calvin and Hobbes. Carrie and I couldn't resist and Cal even took to it like a fish to water.
Phoenix: Sorry to geek out on you all.
Anyhow, I want you to know that regardless if we do not end up together, Bob and I have agreed to always treat each other with respect, and have each others backs.
Bob: We have spent the last few days together Carefully navigating our potential issues and differences much like Carrie and I did.
Natasha and I work well together on the ground along with being among the best double seat pair's in all of the Navy.
But, You have my word that I will always seek God and put family first.
Phoenix: and I will never try to change that. Never met a man before that I respect as much as him because of his commitment.
Cheryl and Wes look at each other with a gentle smiles as they hold Hands.
But they walk forward to put a hand on BobNix’s Shoulder.
Wes: We should be mindful to pray for you both.
Phoenix: Please.
Bob: Thank you both.
Wes leads a heartfelt prayer and they all hug closely speaking kind words to each other.
Once they get the suitcases back to the hotel, Bob Bob says good night to everyone but promises to be back bright and early but Nix is close behind him as she walks him to his truck and says goodnight to Bob's Family.
Nix and Bob are holding hands in the elevator and all alone.
Phoenix: Bob, Wes and Cheryl are amazing. I promise to always be good to them as well.
I want you to know that I support your intent to keep them close.
Bob kisses her forehead gently.
Bob: Thank You Nix, thank you so much for showing them your love and support.
I don’t have the words to express the weight lifted off me right now.
Phoenix: 3 down and one to go. Tell me…
Are you allowed to have a favorite child as a parent? I mean I’m sure you’re going to say no but still.. I mean I really love them both so much but-
Bob: I love them both equally Nix. I cant compare them and I am glad I cant because they are so different.
Shelley is a strong, confident young woman who has the potential to do great things.
Calvin is big hearted, bashful, and an amazing sense of curiosity yet he is a loner who seeks refuge in his faith as he can understand it along with math and science.
You really got along with them very well this evening and I cant thank you enough for being so inclusive to them and yet I saw how happy you were being around them. Yo u didn’t have to try at all.
You have made me care for you even more this evening just being you.
I don’t know how to thank you.
Phoenix: You just did but that wasn’t necessary.
I used dream of having my own kids someday but what’s stopping me from loving yours like they were my own?
Bob goes to embrace her tightly but also kisses her very passionately.
He holds the embrace and Nix is all about it as well as she returns in kind.
The elevator dings as Bob slowly pulls away but gently smiles at her.
Bob: No Nix, You win… You have my heart and you have whatever else you want from me.
Nix gives him a look of wild eyes with a gentle smile as she gently runs her hands though his hair.
Phoenix: All I want is this tonight. And Bob, I like how you said once that its not about winning.
Its about winning together. We win. Now come on before the door closes.
Bob and phoenix get to his truck as they just embrace each other gently while dancing in the parking lot.
Bob: May I play us a song to end out this incredible evening?
Phoenix: Something soft and slow please.
Bob: Of course.
Bob turns on his truck and plays the song “ This night” by Billy Joel.
The lyrics are as Follows:
“Didn't I say
I wasn't ready for a romance
Didn't we promise
We would only be friends
And so we danced
Though it was only a slow dance
I started breaking my promises
Right there and then
Didn't I swear
There would be no complications
Didn't you want
Someone who's seen it all before
Now that you're here
It's not the same situation
Suddenly I don't remember the rules anymore
This night is mine
It's only you and i
Tomorrow
Is a long time away
This night can last forever
I've been around
Someone like me should know better
Falling in love
Would be the worst thing I could do
Didn't I say
I needed time to forget her
Aren't you running from someone
Who's not over you
How many nights
Have I been lonely without you
I tell myself
How much I really don't care
How many nights
Have I been thinking about you
Wanting to hold you
But knowing you would not be there
This night
You're mine
It's only you and i
I'll tell you
To forget yesterday
This night we are together
This night
Is mine
It's only you and i
Tomorrow
Is such a long time away
This night can last forever
Tomorrow
Is such a long time away
This night can last forever.”
Bob and phoenix Just dance slowly while sharing as mile and finding humor in the first verse as it has some similarity to their own story.
Phoenix: Why does this all feel so right?
Bob: I'm not going to question it any further. What a rush this has been. I have not felt such happiness in a very long time and you are part of that along with my Family being here with more to come tomorrow.
How I wish we could spend the night together gain but I think I need to return base as it might look bad if you shared my bed with me this evening.
Phoenix: Yea, good call. We should both try to get some sleep. Tomorrow is another big day. I will be up around 6. Want to bring me my Land Rover and then we get breakfast for everyone?
Bob: Gladly. Where is it parked? And dang, I guess you are well off.
Nix smirks. Building H-34 in the Pilot’s parking area its lime green… Cant miss it.
Bob: will do. So is this good night my love?
Nix kisses him softly.
Phoenix: It is. Goodnight Bob, sleep well.
Bobs gets back to his Barracks room but Rooster is still awake having a beer and sees his new buddy to which they greet each other with a bro hug and smile.
Rooster: How’s it go you big nerd?
Bob: Very well Bradley. Gosh its all just going great! Nix and I had a great time together back at Lemoore, I kissed the girl… we both liked it.
Then my Kids and in-laws surprised me by showing up just now!
And they even are supportive of the two of us!
Rooster playfully smacks Bobs shoulder hard.
Rooster: BRO! FUCK YES!
Dude! Im so happy for you! Can I meet your kids by any chance too!?
Bob: Of course you can and I would love for you to meet them!
But since I am still trying to keep them hidden form the other Daggers, is there any chance you could meet us off base tomorrow?
Rooster: Totally! I don’t have any family coming to visit me other than Mav and I cleaning up the Hard Deck with Penny tomorrow. Any Chance they could come as well?
Bob: That would be a nice touch.
Nix’s Family will be there as well and since Marcus and Mav Did a tour together in the Tomcat's, I think it would be great to see them reconnect.
Rooster: I forgot about that! So cool!
Well hey, I know its late and I can understand if you don’t want to but did you want to have a beer with me while you tell me all about it?
Bob: Ya Know? Maybe Its time I had drink…. Only one however.. can you hold me to it?
Rooster: Certainly. And I understand if you didn't want to with what happened with your wife.
Bob: Thank you but I need to move on and keep lightening up.
Bob and Rooster share a drink together where they enjoy each other’s company and some laughs while Bob goes into detail about his wild time away with Phoenix.
They bro hug and both turn in.
Bob gets on his knees and says a Prayer thanking God for this newfound joy in his life and asking for his continued guidance.
As Bob is in bed, His phone goes off and he sees a message from nix.
Nix: U back safe?
Bob: Safe and sound. Had a beer with Bradley and we had a great talk. Just got to bed.
Nix: Awesome… But I can’t sleep! I’m so high right now… Wanna sext? How about some more side boob?
Bob: Were not out of the woods yet Nix, we still need Cal’s blessing…. Evil temptress. Lol.
Nix: I know… But I promise you I am also holding back but maybe you should buckle up cuz this is still going to get wild. You ready?
Bob: “Baby on Board” is all snug in his booster seat. Send it.
Phoenix: Got a new one for you after this morning; Your new nick name stands for “Big O’l Balls”
Cant wait to play hide and go seek someday.
Nix sends him a demon emoji as Bob rolls his eyes and chuckles.