Page 16 of My All American Girl

Kylee’s eyes lit up with understanding. “Exactly! It feels like I’m not whole when I’m earthbound.”

We spent the rest of the afternoon unpacking and chatting about our shared experiences and dreams. The conversation flowed easily, as if we’d known each other for years instead of just a few hours.

“Do you want to explore our new home?” Kylee asked.

“Sure.” I nodded. “I want to see if I can get a slot for the physical test.”

“Oh, good idea.”

It was essential to pass this test before we could even think about taking to the skies, and we were determined to ace it. We were both anxious to fly.

As we approached the test center, we were relieved to see that there were still a couple of open slots available. We quickly signed up, eager to get the test over with so we could move one step closer to our goal of flying.

Kylee laughed. “I don’t know if I was ready to do this today.”

“I guess this is the real test.” I grinned. “If we do it now and pass, I think it proves we’re ready.”

“Technically, I don’t think it’s all that hard,” she whispered. “Not like what we’re going to be dealing with.”

“Thomas!”

My name was called. I quickly took my spot. The test itself was grueling but manageable. I started with sit-ups, the burn in my abs serving as a reminder of the importance of core strength in the cockpit. Push-ups came next. My arms trembled with exertion as I pushed myself to the limit.

Finally, it was time for the dreaded mile and a half run. We set off at a steady pace, the rhythmic pounding of our feet on the pavement driving us forward. With each step, I could feel my determination growing, pushing me to give it my all. I wanted to be the best. It was ingrained in my DNA to be at the top of the class.

I crossed the finish line, panting and sweating but victorious. Relief washed over me. We had done it. We had passed the physical fitness test, clearing yet another hurdle on our path to becoming pilots.

Kylee grinned at me, her eyes shining with pride. “We did it,” she exclaimed.

I returned her smile. “Yeah, we did.”

“I need a shower,” she said. “I stink.”

Together, we made our way back to the dorm, the weight of the physical test off my shoulders.

We showered and dressed and decided to do a little more exploring.

“I need to go to the commissary,” I said.

“Cool, me too.”

We wandered through the maze of buildings, taking in the sights and sounds of our new home. As we strolled along, we passed rows of aircraft lined up on the tarmac, their sleek exteriors gleaming in the sunlight. The roar of engines filled the air, a constant reminder of the hectic activity that surrounded us.

We made our way to the flight line, marveling at the impressive array of aircraft that were parked there. Fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters—they all stood ready and waiting for their next mission.

“It’s incredible,” Kylee breathed, her eyes wide with awe. “This is the moment I’ve been waiting for.”

We watched a jet take off. The sound of the engines roared through us, the vibrations filling our chests. Excitement flashed in Kylee’s eyes. I understood it. I felt the same way.

“Just imagine,” Kylee murmured. “That’ll be us soon.”

“I can hardly wait,” I agreed.

The jet disappeared into the blue, leaving only a trail of white. The airfield returned to its usual humming activity, but there was a lingering thrill from experiencing such raw power.

I wanted in the cockpit so badly I could almost taste it.

“Let’s go get something to eat,” Kylee suggested.