AN: The following one-shot is set after chapter 12 of my story – In The Air Tonight. If you haven't read that, I kindly ask you to go read it and leave a review. Also it's recommended that you read the story first, since some things in the one-shots may not make sense to you.

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters mentioned here.

In The Air Tonight One-Shots
authored by WingsuitFlying

Chapter 6 – Wolfpack

Requested by AmberRising

Reaper pushed open the door to his Fresno, California home, the familiar scent of cedarwood and lavender greeting him. The weight of the day's drills and debriefs began to lift from his shoulders. He dropped his duffel bag by the door, kicked off his boots, and shrugged out of his flight jacket.

As he stepped into the living room, a heartwarming sight stopped him in his tracks. There, nestled comfortably on the couch, was his wife, Phoenix. She was clad in his favorite black VF-1 Wolfpack hoodie, which engulfed her petite frame, the sleeves hanging past her hands. The hoodie was a cherished memento from his father, Lt. James Grimm, who had worn it proudly as part of the VF-1 "Wolfpack" squadron before disappearing on a routine mission when Reaper was just a boy. The oversized hoodie, paired with her black leggings and white socks, made her look both cozy and endearing.

Phoenix glanced up from the book she was reading and gave him a warm smile. "Hey, you're home," she said softly, careful not to disturb the peaceful silence that filled the room.

Reaper chuckled, the sight of her bringing a sense of warmth and contentment. "And you're wearing my hoodie again," he teased, crossing the room to sit beside her.

"It's comfy," she replied with a playful grin, tugging the sleeves further over her hands. "Plus, it smells like you."

Reaper leaned in and kissed her forehead, then looked over at the crib where their son, Asher, was sound asleep. The little boy's chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, his tiny fists curled near his face. The sight of his sleeping son filled Reaper with a profound sense of love and responsibility.

"He's out like a light," Reaper whispered, admiring the peaceful expression on Asher's face.

"Had a big day," Phoenix said softly, her eyes softening as she gazed at their son. "He discovered the joys of rolling over and spent hours practicing."

Reaper laughed quietly, the sound low and deep. "Sounds like he's already training to be a pilot."

Phoenix nudged him gently with her elbow. "Let's hope he has a slightly safer career."

Reaper's smile faded slightly as he thought of his father. The VF-1 Wolfpack hoodie was more than just a piece of clothing; it was a symbol of his father's legacy and the bond they shared, even if for too short a time. He reached out and gently touched the embroidered patch on the hoodie, tracing the outline of the wolf's head with his finger.

"Do you ever wonder what happened to him?" Phoenix asked, her voice gentle, knowing how much the subject meant to him.

"Every day," Reaper admitted, his voice thick with emotion. "But I also know that he loved flying, just like I do. And he loved us. That gives me some comfort."

Phoenix leaned her head on his shoulder, offering silent support. "He'd be proud of you, you know. And of Asher. You're both carrying on his legacy in your hearts."

Reaper kissed the top of her head, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for his family. "Thanks, Natasha. That means a lot."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, simply enjoying each other's presence. The room was filled with a sense of peace and belonging, a stark contrast to the high-stakes world of naval aviation.

Eventually, Reaper glanced at the clock. "I should probably get some sleep. Early start tomorrow."

Phoenix nodded, but didn't move from her spot. "Stay a little longer," she pleaded softly. "Just for a bit."

Reaper smiled and wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close. "Alright. Just for a bit."

Natasha smiled and nestled closer to him, closing her eyes as she relaxed from the long day. Reaper smiled, a hint of mischief in his eyes as he continued, "You know, the Wolfpack squadron had this ritual, if you would call it that."

Phoenix opened her eyes and raised an eyebrow at him, clearly intrigued. "Oh? Do tell."

"After every successful mission," Reaper began, leaning back on the couch, "they'd go to a bar and order tequila and beer bombs. They had this whole routine where they'd howl like wolves before banging their fists on the bar to drop the shot in the beer before downing it."

Phoenix laughed softly, her eyes widening. "Howl like wolves? Really?"

"Yeah, really," Reaper said, his grin widening. "It was their way of celebrating and bonding. The howl was their signature. It was a bit of a spectacle, but it was also a way to let loose and have some fun after the intensity of a mission."

Phoenix shook her head in amusement. "I can just picture it. Your dad howling like a wolf and leading the pack."

Reaper's expression softened. "He was the life of the party, from what I've been told. I was too young to remember much, but I've heard stories from my brothers and his squad mates. They said those nights at the bar were some of their best memories. It was a tradition that brought them closer together."

Phoenix nestled closer to him, resting her head on his chest. "Do you ever think about bringing that tradition back? Maybe not the howling part," she added with a chuckle.

Reaper considered it for a moment. "Honestly, I've thought about it. Traditions like that build camaraderie and keep the spirit of the squadron alive. Maybe it's something we could start doing with our own squadron. A new version of the Wolfpack ritual."

"I think that would be amazing," Phoenix said, her voice filled with warmth. "It's a way to honor your dad and his legacy. Plus, I wouldn't mind seeing you howl like a wolf."

Reaper laughed, the sound rich and full of life. "You just want an excuse to see me embarrass myself."

"Maybe," Phoenix teased, her eyes sparkling. "But seriously, I think it's a great idea. It's important to keep those traditions alive."

Reaper looked down at her, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for her support and understanding. "You always know how to make everything feel right."

Phoenix smiled up at him. "That's because we're a team. Just like the Wolfpack."

Reaper kissed her gently, his heart swelling with love for the woman by his side. "Alright then, it's settled. We'll bring back the tradition. For the Wolfpack, and for us."

As they sat there, planning how they might introduce the new ritual to their squad, Reaper felt a renewed sense of purpose. The legacy of the VF-1 Wolfpack wasn't just about the past; it was about creating new memories and bonds that would carry forward into the future.

Reaper and Phoenix continued to sit together on the couch, the weight of the day's events slowly fading as they talked about how they could incorporate the Wolfpack's old tradition into their own squadron, the VFA-41 Black Aces' rituals. They shared stories, ideas, and a few laughs, the warmth of their connection deepening with each moment.

Suddenly, a soft whimper came from the crib. Reaper glanced over to see Asher stirring, his little fists waving in the air as he slowly woke up.

"I'll get him," Reaper said, gently disentangling himself from Phoenix and rising to his feet. He crossed the room and leaned over the crib, scooping up his son with practiced ease. Asher settled against his chest, the familiar sound of his father's heartbeat calming him.

"Hey there, buddy," Reaper murmured, swaying gently as he cradled the baby. "Did you have a good nap?"

Phoenix watched them with a tender smile, the sight of her husband and son together filling her with a profound sense of happiness. "He's getting so big," she remarked softly.

"Yeah, he is," Reaper agreed, his voice filled with pride. "Feels like just yesterday he was born."

Phoenix stood and joined them, wrapping her arms around Reaper from behind and resting her chin on his shoulder. "He's going to grow up surrounded by so much love and so many stories. Stories of the Wolfpack, and of you."

Reaper turned his head slightly to kiss her temple. "And of you, Natasha. Don't forget that."

She smiled, a soft laugh escaping her lips. "Alright, you got me there."

Asher cooed, his tiny hand reaching up to grasp at the black VF-1 Wolfpack hoodie, his tiny fingers touching the embrodied wolf patch. Reaper looked down at his son, his heart swelling with love and determination. "You know, I think we should tell him stories about Grandpa James when he gets older. Let him know where he came from and the legacy he's part of."

"I think that's a wonderful idea," Phoenix agreed, brushing her fingers gently over Asher's head. "He'll be so proud to hear about his grandfather."

Reaper nodded, feeling a sense of resolution settle over him. "Yeah. And maybe one day, he'll be part of a squadron with its own traditions, carrying forward the spirit of the Wolfpack."

Phoenix smirked mischievously, her eyes twinkling with a playful light. "Although," she began, her tone teasing, "he can do with fewer stories of Maverick singing 'You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'' to blondes in bars."

Reaper chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, come on, that's a classic! Besides, it's part of what makes Mav, Mav."

"True," Phoenix conceded, her smile widening. "But we don't want Asher thinking that's the only way to impress someone. There are better ways to show your charm."

Reaper laughed, the sound deep and genuine. "Fair point. We'll focus more on the flying and less on the bar antics."

Phoenix leaned in closer, resting her head on his shoulder. "I think that's a good idea. Besides, we've got plenty of our own stories to share with him. Stories about teamwork, bravery, and maybe even a few about how his parents met."

Reaper's expression softened as he looked down at her. "Now that's a story worth telling. You showing up for your first day at the Naval Academy, constantly challenging me during your first year, us trying to one-up each other."

"And eventually realizing we made a pretty good team," Phoenix added, her eyes shining with affection.

Reaper nodded, his heart full. "Yeah, the best team."

They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the weight of their shared history enveloping them like a warm blanket. Outside, the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, casting a soft glow through the windows.

"Do you ever think about what it would have been like if we hadn't both ended up at the Academy?" Phoenix asked suddenly, her voice thoughtful.

Reaper considered her question, his mind drifting back to those early days. "Honestly, it's hard to imagine. The Naval Academy was such a pivotal moment for both of us. It's where we grew, learned, and ultimately found each other."

Phoenix nodded, her hand resting on his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. "I can't imagine it either. Everything we went through, all the challenges and victories, they brought us here. To this moment."

Reaper kissed her forehead, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for the path their lives had taken. "And I wouldn't change a thing."

As they continued to talk, their conversation drifted from the past to the future, discussing their hopes and dreams for Asher and the family they were building together. The room was filled with a sense of peace and contentment, the love between them palpable.

As they stood together, the living room bathed in the soft glow of the evening light, Reaper felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. His father's legacy was more than just a memory; it was a living, breathing part of his family, guiding them forward.

After a while, Reaper carried Asher back to his crib, carefully laying him down and tucking him in. The baby settled quickly, his breathing evening out as he drifted back to sleep. Reaper and Phoenix watched him for a moment, their hands entwined.

"He's our future," Phoenix whispered, her voice filled with emotion. "And we're his."

Reaper squeezed her hand gently. "Yes, we are. And together, we're going to give him a life filled with love, adventure, and the best parts of our past."

They returned to the couch, snuggling close once more. Reaper wrapped his arm around Phoenix, pulling her into his embrace as they talked late into the night about their hopes, dreams, and the legacy they wanted to build for their family.

Eventually, Reaper glanced at the clock and sighed. "Alright, I really should get some sleep. Early start tomorrow."

Phoenix reluctantly pulled away, but not before giving him a lingering kiss. "Okay, but just remember, no howling at the bar until you get a full night's rest."

Reaper laughed, standing up and stretching. "Deal."

He headed to their bedroom, Phoenix following close behind. As they settled into bed, Reaper wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close. The soft hum of the baby monitor filled the room, a comforting reminder of their son sleeping soundly in the next room.

Reaper and Phoenix settled into bed, the room bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight filtering through the curtains. The rhythmic hum of the baby monitor created a soothing backdrop as they lay side by side, holding each other close.

Reaper turned his head slightly to look at Phoenix, his eyes filled with love and gratitude. "You know, I never thought I'd have all this," he admitted quietly. "A family, a home, someone who understands me like you do."

Phoenix smiled, her fingers gently tracing circles on his chest. "Me neither. But I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. This is everything I've ever wanted."

They lay in comfortable silence for a moment, listening to the peaceful sounds of the night. Reaper's mind drifted to the upcoming day, the responsibilities and challenges that awaited him. But right now, in this moment, all that mattered was the woman beside him and their sleeping son.

"Do you remember our first flight together?" Phoenix asked suddenly, breaking the silence.

Reaper chuckled softly. "How could I forget? You were so determined to outfly me."

"And you were so cocky," Phoenix teased, her smile widening. "I couldn't let you get away with that."

Reaper laughed, the sound low and warm. "You kept me on my toes, that's for sure. But I think that's what drew me to you. I mean way back at the Naval Academy – your fiery spirit, your drive. I knew from the moment I saw you that you were someone special."

Phoenix's eyes softened, her hand resting on his cheek. "And I knew that beneath all that bravado, there was a heart of gold. Someone worth fighting for."

Reaper kissed her gently, the touch of his lips soft and tender. "I'm glad we found each other, Natasha. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"You'll never have to find out," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion. "We're in this together, no matter what."

Reaper pulled her closer, holding her as if he never wanted to let go. They stayed like that for a while, savoring the warmth and comfort of each other's presence. Eventually, the day's exhaustion began to take its toll, and their eyelids grew heavy.

"Goodnight, Don," Phoenix murmured, her voice drowsy.

"Goodnight, Natasha," Reaper replied, his words a soft promise. "I love you."

"I love you too," she whispered back, her voice fading as sleep overtook her.

As Reaper lay there, listening to the gentle sounds of her breathing, he felt a deep sense of peace. The legacy of the Wolfpack, the love of his family, and the promise of the future all wrapped around him like a protective blanket. No matter what challenges lay ahead, he knew they would face them together, with courage and unwavering support.

With that comforting thought, Reaper closed his eyes and let sleep claim him, his dreams filled with the faces of those he loved and the adventures yet to come.

As the soft glow of dawn began to creep into the room, Reaper stirred, his internal clock finely tuned to the early hours demanded by his duties. He lay still for a moment, savoring the warmth of Phoenix beside him and the quiet peace of their home. The baby monitor buzzed softly, indicating that Asher was still sleeping soundly.

Gently, Reaper slipped out of bed, careful not to wake Phoenix. He pulled on a pair of sweatpants and a T-shirt, moving quietly to the crib to check on Asher. Their son was still fast asleep, his tiny form snuggled under a light blanket. Reaper smiled softly, the sight of his sleeping child filling him with a sense of calm and purpose.

He made his way to the kitchen, where he began the familiar routine of brewing coffee. The aroma soon filled the room, a comforting and energizing scent that helped to shake off the last remnants of sleep. As he poured himself a cup, he heard soft footsteps behind him.

Turning, he saw Phoenix standing in the doorway, wrapped in a robe, her hair slightly tousled from sleep. She gave him a sleepy smile. "Couldn't sleep in?" she asked, her voice still heavy with sleep.

Reaper grinned, handing her a mug of coffee. "You know me too well. Besides, I wanted to make sure everything was ready for the day."

Phoenix took a sip of her coffee, her eyes brightening as the caffeine began to work its magic. "Always the overachiever," she teased lightly. "But I appreciate it."

They sat together at the kitchen table, enjoying the quiet moments before the day truly began. Reaper reached out and took Phoenix's hand, their fingers intertwining effortlessly.

"I was thinking," Reaper began, his tone thoughtful. "About what we talked about last night. About the Wolfpack tradition. I really think we should do it."

Phoenix nodded, her expression serious. "I agree. It's important to honor those who came before us and to build our own legacy."

Reaper smiled, a sense of resolve settling over him. "I'll talk to the squad today. We'll plan a night out, introduce the tradition. And who knows, maybe we'll even get a few howls in."

Phoenix laughed softly, squeezing his hand. "I'd love to see that."

Just then, they heard a soft cooing coming from the baby monitor. Reaper stood up, his face lighting up with a smile. "Sounds like someone's awake."

Phoenix followed him to the nursery, where Asher was now awake, his big eyes blinking up at them. Reaper reached into the crib and lifted him out, cradling him gently in his arms.

"Good morning, buddy," Reaper said, his voice tender. "Did you sleep well?"

Asher responded with a happy gurgle, his tiny hands reaching out to touch his father's face. Phoenix leaned in, placing a gentle kiss on their son's forehead.

"He's growing so fast," Phoenix remarked, her voice filled with awe and love.

Reaper nodded, a sense of pride swelling in his chest. "Yeah, he is. And we're going to make sure he grows up with all the love and support he needs."

They spent a few precious moments together, basking in the warmth of their family bond. Then, reluctantly, Reaper glanced at the clock. "I should get ready. Big day ahead."

Phoenix nodded, understanding. "I'll handle things here. You go be amazing."

Reaper kissed her, then kissed Asher, before heading off to get dressed for the day. As he put on his flight suit and laced up his boots, he felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The legacy of the Wolfpack was alive and well, and he was ready to carry it forward.

Before leaving, he returned to the living room where Phoenix was now feeding Asher. He leaned down and kissed her again, their lips lingering for a moment. "I love you," he whispered.

"I love you too," she replied, her eyes shining with affection.

With one last look at his family, Reaper headed out the door, ready to face the challenges of the day. He knew that no matter what came his way, he had the strength and support of his family behind him. And that made all the difference.

AN: A one-shot that AmberRising requested and it helped delve into Reaper's background more and write a more detailed backstory about his father, Lt. James Grimm. Reviews are always welcome! If you have any requests for a one-shot you want to see written, let me know and I'll come up with something for you. Also I want to thank AmberRising and Batghost once again due to their unwavering support for In The Air Tonight!