Chapter 70: A New Space, A New Story
It was a quiet morning in Hawaii, with the sound of the waves echoing through the house as Scott walked down the hallway with a box in his hands. Inside were his medals, badges, and the commemorative plaque he had received from DEVGRU when he left. He paused at the door to the office, surveying the space Jane had set up for him to work from home.
The office was cozy, with a large dark wood desk, shelves lined with books and documents, and a large window that offered a stunning view of the ocean. Jane had decorated the space with minimalist paintings and a few personal touches, such as photos of herself and the children.
Scott walked into the room, taking a deep breath. There was something symbolic about hanging those medals and the plaque there. For him, it was a way to honor his journey while also embracing the future he was building with Jane and his new life.
Scott placed the box on the desk, beginning to organize the items. He carefully removed the medal frame, running his fingers along the edges as if reliving each moment they represented. Medals for bravery, distinctions for leadership, and honors that marked his dedication to the Navy.
Jane appeared in the doorway with a cup of coffee in her hands, observing him silently for a few seconds before speaking: "This will look great here. Do you know where you're going to hang it yet?"
Scott looked at her with a smile. "I was thinking about that wall over there, above the shelf. It has good lighting and will be easy to see when you're working."
Jane laughed and entered the room, placing the cup on the table. "When we're working, you mean. This office is yours now too, you know? I think it's only fair that we share."
Scott raised his eyebrows, joking: "Share? It's hard enough to compete with your sense of organization. If you see my mess, you'll throw me out of here in two days."
Jane lightly slapped his shoulder. — "Stop messing around. Besides, this mess is part of who you are, and I love it."
They laughed together as Scott picked up the drill he had brought. Scott measured the right height to hang the picture. He was meticulous in everything he did, and this was no different. Jane watched him as he adjusted the position, a level in one hand and the drill in the other.
— "You make it sound so technical," she commented, crossing her arms and leaning against the table. "I would have just looked at it and said, 'This is fine.'"
Scott smiled as he put the level in his pocket. — "After years of planning missions where one mistake could cost lives, I guess it's in your blood to want everything to be perfect, even where to hang a picture."
Jane walked over, running her hand down his arm. — "And that's why you're amazing. No matter what you do, you always give it your best."
Scott looked at her, a grateful gleam in his eyes.
"That means a lot coming from you, Jane."
After a few minutes, the painting was finally hanging. He stepped back to admire the result. The medals gleamed in the natural light that came through the window, each telling a part of his career story.
Jane picked up the commemorative plaque Scott had received from DEVGRU. It was made of dark wood with gold trim, and an inscription in the center read:
"In recognition of Captain Scott Walker, for his unwavering leadership, dedication, and extraordinary service to DEVGRU and the nation of the United States. His courage and integrity are an inspiration to us all."
"This definitely deserves a special place," Jane said, handing it to Scott.
He held the plaque carefully, reading again the words that meant so much to him.
— "It's more than I ever expected. This plaque represents not only what I've done, but the people I've had the honor of serving with. Every single word belongs to them, too."
Jane nodded, moved. — "You deserve every word, Scott. And now, it has a place here, in our home."
Scott decided to place it on a shelf above his desk, positioning it next to a small folded American flag he'd saved from one of his deployments. With everything in place, Scott and Jane sat on the small couch in the office, staring at the painting and the plaque. For a moment, they were both silent, absorbing the meaning of this space now filled with Scott's story.
— "You know," Scott began, breaking the silence, "when I look at these medals, I don't just see the missions and the challenges. I see the people. The faces of the men and women I served with. The ones who came back with me and the ones who didn't. It's to them that this means so much."
Jane took his hand, squeezing it gently.
— "I know. And now, this story is part of our family too. Alex and Julie will grow up seeing this and understanding how much you sacrificed and conquered."
Scott turned to her, smiling. "And how much you mean to me. You and them are my new mission, Jane. And I will fulfill this with the same dedication."
Jane leaned over and kissed him softly. "You're already fulfilling it, Scott."
Later that afternoon, Alex and Julie walked into the office, curious to see what Scott was up to.
Alex was the first to notice the painting. "Wow, that's impressive, Scott. How many medals are there?"
Scott laughed. "A lot, kid. But each one has a story, and one day, if you want, I'll tell you all about them."
Julie pointed to the plaque. "Is this new? What does it say?"
Jane read the inscription aloud, and Julie smiled broadly. "That's so cool! You're like a hero, Scott."
Scott smiled, placing a hand on her shoulder. "No, Julie. I just did my job. But thank you."
By nightfall, the office had been transformed into a space that reflected Scott's journey and the new chapter he was beginning. He knew the transition to civilian life would be challenging, but here, with Jane, Alex, Julie, and the support of his family, he felt like he was exactly where he needed to be.
As he closed the office door, Scott took one last look at the board and plaque, feeling a mixture of pride and gratitude. He was no longer just Captain Walker, leader of DEVGRU. Now, he was something even bigger: part of a family that made him feel complete.
Chapter 71: A Welcome Night
The morning in Hawaii was as vibrant as a postcard. Jane, with an excited smile on her face, entered the NCIS operations room, where her team was already busy with reports and discussions about ongoing cases. With her confident posture and warm tone, she caught everyone's attention.
— "Guys, take a break from work for a moment. I have a special invitation for you."
Ernie, looking up from the monitor, already curious.
— "Special invitation? Is it for some secret case? Wait, is it a mission to the moon? Because I've always wanted to explore extraterrestrial technology."
Jane laughed at Ernie's energy, while the others turned to her expectantly.
— "Nothing too complicated, Ernie. I'm organizing a dinner at my house this weekend. A way to get everyone together outside of work and... also to introduce my boyfriend."
Lucy arched an eyebrow, always interested in Jane's personal details.
— "Ah, we're finally going to meet the famous Captain Walker. It's about time!"
Kai leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms.
"The guy with a whole wall of medals? I'm curious to see who this man is who has everyone impressed."
Jesse, always the easygoing one, laughed and looked at Jane.
"Are you sure he's ready to deal with this crazy team, Jane? Because we're a complete package."
Jane crossed her arms, smiling.
"I trust Scott. Besides, he's already dealt with much more intense situations than you can imagine."
Kate, who had researched Scott's history, looked at Jane with a slight smile.
"He's definitely used to pressure. It'll be a pleasure to officially meet him."
"Great," Jane said, pleased with the positive reaction. — "Then it's settled. Saturday night, at my place. Bring your appetite, because I'm going to prepare something special."
Ernie smiled, raising his hand like an enthusiastic student.
— "Can I bring you dessert? I'm practically a master at choosing pies at the bakery."
Jane laughed and shook her head.
— "Sure, Ernie. Just try not to eat it all before you get there."
When Saturday arrived, Jane was in the kitchen, putting the finishing touches on dinner. She was dressed in a casual yet elegant dress that suited the tropical Hawaiian climate. The house was immaculate, with a table set up on the outdoor patio, facing the ocean. String lights created a cozy ambiance, and the sound of the waves in the background completed the perfect setting.
Scott, who had been in Hawaii for a few days, was helping to set things up. He was dressed in a light shirt and linen pants, fitting in with the laid-back style of the place.
— "So, how's it going?" he asked, carrying a tray of glasses outside.
Jane looked at him, smiling.
— "It's perfect. What about you? Ready to meet my team?"
Scott gave her a relaxed smile.
"If they're as amazing as you say, it'll be a pleasure. Besides, I've dealt with much more complicated situations. I think I can survive a dinner party."
Jane laughed, handing him a bottle of wine.
"Don't underestimate my team. They can be a little intense, especially after a few glasses of wine."
Little by little, the team members began to arrive. Lucy was the first, bringing a bottle of prosecco and greeting Jane with a hug.
"The house is beautiful, Jane. It feels like paradise."
"Thanks, Lucy. It's good to see you out of the office."
Soon, Ernie arrived with a fruit tart in hand, already talking excitedly about how he'd chosen the perfect dessert. Jesse and Kai came along, bringing craft beers and laughing at some inside joke. Finally, Kate arrived, bringing a bouquet of flowers for Jane.
Everyone was excited and curious to meet Scott. When he finally appeared on the patio, carrying a tray of appetizers, there was a brief silence.
Ernie was the first to break the tension. "Wow, you definitely look like someone who would lead DEVGRU."
Scott smiled, shaking each of their hands. "And you definitely look like a team that knows how to have a good time. Jane speaks highly of all of you."
Jesse shook his hand firmly. "It's an honor to meet you, Captain. And thank you for all you've done for the country."
Scott bowed his head humbly. "Thank you, Jesse. But tonight, please just call me Scott."
The evening continued with laughter, stories, and good food. Jane had prepared a menu that included local favorites like tuna poke and Hawaiian ribs, as well as some traditional recipes from her family.
Scott quickly became the center of attention, sharing stories from his career with a touch of humor. He talked about tense moments, but also about the bonds he had formed with his team over the years.
Lucy looked at him, intrigued.
— "Do you miss being on the field ? "
Scott paused, considering the question.
— "Yes and no. There's something unique about being on the field with your team, relying on each other in life-or-death situations. But there's also a moment when you realize you've done your part and it's time to move on. Right now, I'm focused on something even more important: my family."
Jane looked at him with a warm smile, feeling the weight of his words. As the evening went on, Scott began to learn more about each member of Jane's team. He connected with Jesse when they both shared stories about raising teenage children.
With Kai, they talked about the transition from being a rookie to becoming an expert in their field. Ernie impressed Scott with his technical knowledge, and the two laughed as Ernie began detailing how to hack a system. Lucy and Kate were interested in hearing more about Scott's experiences, especially when he mentioned high-risk missions.
Finally, Jane raised a glass of wine, getting everyone's attention. "I want to thank everyone for coming today. You're more than my team, you're my family here in Hawaii. And now, I want to welcome Scott, who has officially joined us. We're ready to start this new phase together."
Everyone toasted, with smiles and words of support.
As the evening drew to a close, the team said their goodbyes, thanking Jane and Scott for their hospitality. Ernie, of course, made sure to remind them to take the remaining pie home.
After everyone had left, Jane and Scott stood on the patio, watching the stars as the waves gently crashed on the shore.
"You survived," Jane joked, leaning against him.
Scott wrapped his arm around her, pulling her closer.
"It was more than that. It was perfect. Your team is amazing, Jane. They're an extension of you, and now I understand why you talk about them so much."
Jane looked up at him, her eyes shining.
"And now you're a part of it too. We're a complete family."
Scott smiled, kissing her softly.
"And I couldn't ask for anything better."
New stories in my Patreon
News stories there: "SUITS: The Lawyer " , " The Lawyer and Policeman " and " Former CIA, Now LAPD "
This story is already complete there
[email protected]/SHADOWGHOST07
Just replace the @ with an a