The roar of the fighter jet’s engines faded into a low hum as Caleb descended onto the landing platform. The vast hangar was bathed in the soft glow of artificial light, and the faint scent of metal and fuel lingered in the air. His gloved hand adjusted the strap of his harness as he stepped off the ramp, his boots clicking against the polished floor with a steady rhythm.

Dressed in his beige flight jacket, unzipped just enough to reveal the white shirt beneath, Caleb exuded an air of purpose and excitement. The jacket’s brass accents and utility pockets bore subtle signs of wear from the mission, but none of that seemed to weigh on him now. His dark brown hair, slightly tousled from the helmet now dangling at his side, framed his sharp features, catching the overhead lights with a warm sheen.

A small, knowing smile tugged at his lips as he walked toward the debriefing area. His gloved fingers reached up to the chain around his neck, pulling out his dog tags. The familiar coolness of the metal met his touch, but his attention lingered on the tiny apple charm attached to it—a little piece of home he carried with him everywhere. It swayed slightly as he walked, a quiet reminder of the person waiting for him.

The thought of them waiting for him, probably unaware of his earlier-than-expected return, sent a flicker of excitement through his chest. He rubbed his thumb over the charm, his violet eyes softening with unspoken affection.

Idly, he hoped they hadn't fallen asleep, the corners of his mouth curving upward in a rare moment of unguarded warmth.

As he moved through the hangar, his tall frame and confident strides drew glances from the crew around him, but Caleb was too focused to notice. The medals pinned to his jacket caught the light as he passed, though they meant little to him compared to what waited beyond the sterile walls of the base. With a final glance at his reflection in the sleek metal wall, he adjusted his jacket, tucking the dog tags back beneath his shirt.