Work Text:
“To the love of my life, Tom Kazansky.
The chances are I am dead if you receive this. It was clear to me that I would die during this mission. The truth is, everyone knew it was going to happen.. I’m sorry, Ice, I’m sorry for everything. I'm sorry I left you alone for the rest of your life. There will be someone else out there for you to love the same way you loved me. I really have faith in you. After all, I was your wingman, and I know you best.
One of my biggest regrets is not using the time we have had together. 30 years may seem like a lot, but it was nowhere near enough time. I have a lot of regrets that will come down with me, like letting the kid go. It was my fault I took Bradley away from both of us. I’m sorry I couldn’t make up with him like the way you wanted me to.
I don’t think I’ll ever stop loving you, even though I’m dead. One of my biggest accomplishments was never giving up on you, and that I kept loving you for these years. I know you love me. You’ve made it very obvious since 1987. I remember the day we made it official, drunk off of whatever we could find in the gas station for less than 50 bucks. That day led to many more days that I could never see myself regretting.
As I’m writing, the mission is in a week. The day is the day where our lives could change for the worse, or for the better. I’m trusting this letter to Hondo, in hopes he will give it to you. For what could be the last time, I love you. I will always love you.
Your menace, Maverick.”
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Maverick signed off the letter before sealing it in a white envelope and writing “Ice <3” on the front of it. Maverick can’t remember the last time he wrote a letter before a mission, however it’s not every day you go on a suicide mission. He got up from the chair he wrote the letter in before going into the hallway, finding Hondo.
“Hondo, give this to Ice if I'm dead at the end of this.” Maverick handed the letter to Hondo.
“Yes, Captain.” Hondo said, taking the letter.
Maverick walked off, praying for the first time in years that he could make it home to Ice.