This is my first story in a couple of years; hope ya'll enjoy!

This is an AU babe fic. HEA eventually...of course. :) I should be posting weekly so stay tuned.

The first chapter is a little short, but it's just the intro and the rest of the chapters will be longer.

Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters, that right belongs to the amazing JE.

Chapter 1

The clouds loom large in the background as hundreds of people mill about in the chilly November weather. The sky is overcast and the mood is somber yet a patriotic undertone runs through the crowd. Secret services agents slip in and out of the crowd checking for any sign of danger as the country's first black president prepares to address the audience during this turbulent time. The presidential seal graces the front of the podium that stands empty waiting for the presence of the leader.

Minutes pass by before President Bartholomew Ordo comes forward, clearing his throat before he speaks:

"Let's be clear about ISIS. They have rampaged across cities and villages, killing innocent, unarmed civilians in cowardly acts of violence….No just God would stand for what they did yesterday and what they do every single day." He stops speaking and makes meaningful eye contact with the audience.

"They have killed two of our own people. How can we, as Americans, stand for these atrocities? We fought for our freedom in 1776 and we won. We protected our values in the 1940s against mass genocide. In the 1960s we fought against racism to ensure everyone gets equality, and considering I am standing up here, we were mostly successful. Today, we fight for LGBT rights, but right now, we need to fight against ISIS. They will keep killing and won't stop unless we take a stand to stop them."

The president finishes his speech and the crowds roar with cheers at the end. Like in every time of crisis, the United States never fails to come together and fight for the beliefs and values the country was founded on. Considering the United Kingdom, Germany, and France are already joining the battle, the U.S. was going to join anyways.

"Cupcake, think about this for a second," Joe pleads with his melting brown eyes as I continue pacing across the floor. He can plead all he wants, but I won't change my mind—I can't.

"Joe, will you ever listen to what I have to say?" I ask trying to keep calm. "I have opinions, and thoughts, and friends! I can't stand idly by as more people get slaughtered for some twisted religion and obsession over power." Joe grabs my shoulders to keep me from pacing.

"You're making a mistake! You're going to get killed, and then what?" Joe states, "What about me? What about your parents? Your sister? Your friends? What then, Stephanie?" I knew he'd want to talk me out of this, of the only thing I've ever been sure of in my life. I want to make a difference, and I can. I have never done anything important in my life, and at twenty-two in the midst of a war, I know I will. I feel this in my bones, and it only gives me confidence that my gut or "spidey-sense" backs me up on my plan.

"My family and friends should understand the sacrifice I am choosing to make and they should be proud!" I yell as I lose my temper. Joe has always put me down and kept me right where I am. Get a business degree, he said, then you can work anywhere. I've listened to him too many times already, I cannot afford to any more.

"How will anyone be proud if you're DEAD!?" Joe's screaming now too, and the vein in his forehead bulges out. I'm surprised it hasn't burst yet.

"They will be proud because I'm doing something for my country. And it's too late Joe, I've already signed up," I reply, starting to calm down. We have no need for two irrationally angry people in this conversation. Joe sighs heavily, giving up the fight he lost before it even started.

"Stephanie…" He hangs his head. "I thought we had plans together…" My heart breaks a little, but I know this is the right thing for me to do.

"We did Joe, but I know God has big plans for me right now. We should take a break while I'm gone—I would never ask you to wait for me," I say with no regrets. "We can write, but feel free to move on Joe. I think it will be for the best." We've been together since he came back from a year in the Navy. We had our rough patches, but we had three good years together. Joe pulls me into a hug and draws back to kiss me. I look into his ever-darkening eyes and we let the passion of our goodbye consume us.

"Yes…of course…no problem sir…right away…tonight?...will do," Ranger says into the phone before hanging up.

"What's the news, boss?" I question from the seat across from him. He rests his arms on the desk between us.

"Seems like the ISIS situation has escalated and they're getting troops in ASAP. General just called to inform me that my skills will be necessary. I head out tonight," He replies, making sure to cover everything in a few sentences. I nod. It's not like Ranger hasn't done this before, but I get the feeling nothing will be the same after this mission. We had all enlisted after the 9/11 attacks when we were just eighteen. Eight years older, but decades wiser we still complete missions here and there when Uncle Sam asks. We signed a contract, we made a vow, and we support our country no matter what. The only problem this time is the fact that it might be the next world war. This escalation will mean countless deaths. I can only hope my brother in arms, my business partner, my friend, makes it out in one piece this time. We've played with fate and death too many times that I can only hope and pray for his safe return. I'm not real keen on running RangeMan, I prefer my status as second in command while occasionally filling in.

"Do you have all your documents in order?" I check. He gives a swift nod. He's silent and I know he's thinking about the upcoming battles ahead. I don't question him further, knowing he's never enjoyed going out on these missions. This mission seems different—more dangerous because of ISIS' hate of Americans.

AN: Yes, the president in my story is based on our current president and some of the words were actually a quote from the president. Keep in mind that this story is fiction! Please review and tell me what you think. Any errors are my own so feel free to let me know so I can fix them!