Chapter 21: A Breathing Break
After the successful mission to rescue Captain Phillips, Echo Team was back on the USS Bainbridge. The mood on deck, once tense and focused, was now more relaxed. Captain Phillips had been removed from danger, and everyone could, for a brief moment, let out the breath they had been holding during the operation.
Scott and his men gathered in one of the makeshift mess halls, where a few tables had been set up so they could eat something and rest while they waited for the helicopter that would take them back to base.
"Does anyone remember what it's like to sleep in a real bed?" Logan joked, as he chewed on a piece of dry bread.
"I vaguely remember," Ramirez replied with a tired smile. "But it seems like a distant dream."
Scott, sitting at the head of the table, looked at his men with a mixture of pride and relief. "You guys did an impeccable job today. This is what we train for. Each of you gave it your all, and that's why we're here now, talking and eating instead of complaining."
"Thanks, boss," James, the oldest member of the team, said, raising his coffee cup in a gesture of respect. "But you know, this is also due to your leadership."
Scott nodded, a slight smile on his face. "It's a team effort. Without you, I'm nothing."
A few members of the USS Bainbridge crew began to approach. It was clear that they were impressed by the presence of the SEALs, especially after the mission they had just completed.
A young sailor, probably in his 20s, approached shyly. "Sir, can I ask you a question?"
Scott looked at him, noticing his hesitation. "Sure. Feel free."
"What's it like being a SEAL? I mean... doing what you guys do? It must be amazing."
Scott exchanged glances with his team before answering. "Being a SEAL isn't about being awesome. It's about sacrifice, discipline, and trust in your team. Yes, we do things that many would consider impossible, but it doesn't happen overnight. It's hard work, constant work, and it takes a lot out of us."
The sailor nodded, absorbing the words. Ramirez, in his more relaxed manner, added: "And there's also a lot of sand, a lot of fatigue, and more MREs than you'd care to remember."
The room erupted in laughter.
"But," Logan continued, "it's a privilege to serve alongside these guys and do something that really matters. That's what keeps us going."
As the conversation flowed, Scott noticed that some of the crew members had cell phones in their hands. He quickly raised a hand. "Guys, an important reminder: no photos, no videos. I know you want to capture the moment, but it compromises operational safety."
The sailors immediately put away their cell phones, understanding the gravity of the request.
"It's not because we don't trust you," Scott explained, trying to soften his tone. "It's because, in our world, the slightest leak of information can put lives at risk, whether it's ours or our families. I hope you understand."
The sailor who had asked the question nodded. "We understand, sir. It's the least we can do to respect what you do."
"Thank you," Scott replied, relaxing a little.
After eating, the team dispersed a little, some taking the opportunity to rest in the chairs available on the deck while watching the horizon. The USS Bainbridge was calmly sailing over the ocean, with the sound of the waves mixed with the soft roar of the engines.
Scott sat on the edge of the deck, looking out to sea. James approached, sitting next to him.
"Penny for your thoughts, boss?"
Scott smiled slightly. "I was thinking about how life changes. A few years ago, I was in Annapolis, dreaming of becoming an officer. Today, I'm here, leading an elite team, completing missions that I'd only seen in movies before."
James nodded, crossing his arms. "It's funny how time flies, isn't it? But you've adapted well. Some officers never make the transition to the field, but you... you were born to do this."
"Thanks, James," Scott replied sincerely. "But it's not just about me. You're the heart of the team. I just steer the ship."
A short time later, the sound of a helicopter's blades began to emerge in the distance. The crew of the USS Bainbridge prepared to welcome him, while Echo Team adjusted their gear once more.
"Well, here we go again," Ramirez said, standing up and adjusting his backpack.
"I hope the helicopter has comfortable seats," Logan joked, earning a chuckle from the team.
Scott was silent for a moment, watching as the helicopter approached and landed on the deck. He knew that although the mission was over, their work was never truly over.
As the rotor began to slow, Scott turned to look the crew of the USS Bainbridge saluted formally. "Thank you for having us and for your support. It's been an honor to work with you."
"It was our pleasure, Lieutenant," the ship's captain replied, returning the salute.
As the helicopter lifted off the ship, Scott looked out the window at the ocean below. His mind was already racing ahead to the next mission, but for now, he enjoyed the moment of peace.
"Boss," Logan said from across the cabin, "when we get back, the first round is on you."
Scott laughed. "Sure. But only if you can keep up with me."
The crew laughed, and for the first time in days, they allowed themselves to relax. For them, moments like this, surrounded by brothers in arms, were as important as any victory in combat. After all, it was this camaraderie that kept them together, even in the most difficult situations.
Chapter 22: A Time of Tranquility
The helicopter landed at a secure base on the coast, and Scott was greeted by a few superiors who congratulated him on a successful mission. After a brief report, he was released for a well-deserved rest period. He already knew where he would spend these days: at his parents' house in Virginia Beach.
As Scott pulled into the driveway, he felt a familiar sense of calm. His parents' house was a refuge, a place where he could let his guard down, even if only for a short time. As soon as he opened the door, his mother, Jennifer, appeared in the living room, with a big smile on her face.
"Scott! Finally home!" she exclaimed, going to hug him tightly.
Scott returned the hug affectionately. "Hi, Mom. I missed you."
She pulled back to study him. "You look tired, but you're fine. Any injuries? Any concerns?"
Scott laughed. "I'm fine, Mom. Just tired. But everything went well."
His father, Michael, emerged from the kitchen, holding a cup of coffee. "Welcome back, son! As always, I hear you did an impeccable job."
"Thanks, Dad," Scott replied, shaking his father's hand before being pulled into a brief but firm hug. "It's good to be back."
"You're right on time. Your mom made that lasagna you like," Michael said, with a satisfied smile.
Jennifer rolled her eyes. "Of course, because he only comes here for the food, right?"
Scott laughed as he kicked off his boots. "Home-cooked food is always a good motivator, Mom."
After lunch, the three of them sat in the living room, where the atmosphere was relaxed. Jennifer poured tea while Michael leafed through a book he was writing a sequel to his best-selling book on military leadership.
"So, son, how was the mission?" Michael asked, not pressing, but clearly curious.
Scott thought for a moment before answering. "It was intense, but successful. Every member of the team did what they had to do, and we got everyone back safely. That's what matters at the end of the day."
Jennifer sighed, looking at her son with worried eyes. "My heart always breaks when you leave, Scott. Even though I know you're one of the best, I'm still your mom."
He smiled at her. "I know, Mom. And I appreciate that. But you know I do what I do because I believe in what I'm protecting."
Michael nodded. "That's why we're so proud of you, son. It's not just about skill, it's about character."
Later, Scott and his father decided to go for a walk on the beach, a tradition for the two of them since Scott was a child. The fresh air and the sound of the crashing waves provided a perfect backdrop for deeper conversations.
"Are you okay, Scott?" Michael asked, breaking the silence.
"Yes, I am. Why?"
"I just… I know that leading a team, especially on such high-risk operations, can be a burden sometimes. Even the best of us need support."
Scott stopped and looked at his father. "I appreciate that, Dad. And to be honest, there are times when I feel the weight, yes. But I know I can count on my team and on you guys."
Michael put his hand on his son's shoulder. "Always. No matter what time it is, we're here for you."
Back at the house, the family gathered on the patio to enjoy the evening breeze. Jennifer brought out a bottle of wine, and they toasted Scott's safe return.
"Have you thought about what you want to do next, Scott?" Jennifer asked curiously.
"After what, Mom?"
"After all this. You always talk about protecting your team and serving your country, but what about when you decide it's time to stop?"
Scott pondered for a moment. "I haven't really thought about it yet. I feel like I still have a lot to offer. But I know that one day I'll want something more peaceful. Maybe start a family."
Jennifer smiled. "I'd love that. You'd be a great dad, Scott."
Michael laughed. "If he's half the leader he is at work, he'll be."
Scott laughed, shaking his head. "Let's take it slow. First, I need to find someone who's willing to put up with my unpredictable schedule."
As the night wore on, Scott felt a rare sense of calm. Being with his parents, at home, reminded him that despite all the hardships and challenges, he had a place where he was loved and valued for who he was, not just what he did.
He looked at his parents, who were talking about old memories, and smiled. It was times like these that he understood the true meaning of his fight: to protect not only his country, but the people who mattered most to him.
New stories in my Patreon
News stories there: "SUITS: The Lawyer " and " The Lawyer and Policeman "
This story is already complete there
[email protected]/SHADOWGHOST07
Just replace the @ with an a