NCIS HAWAII: The Captain

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.