Chapter 37
The video of the CQB simulation continued to circulate on military and veteran forums on Reddit. The provocative title, "Two Tier One Operators Show How It's Done," caught the attention of enthusiasts, active duty military, law enforcement, and veterans from various forces around the world. The reactions were quick to pour in. Comments quickly exploded, with users praising the skills and precision of the two operators.
The video showed a clip of the simulation with two men moving quickly through tight spaces, with a coordination that was clearly the result of years of practice and experience. It was mesmerizing to anyone who understood the difficulties involved in a raid simulation: precise movements, without hesitation, and completely silent.
Within a few days, the video had reached the top of specialized forums and subreddits, with comments divided between curiosity and admiration.
Comments on the Forum:
— "These guys are machines. Check out the entrance to the first room. The timing is impeccable."
— "This isn't something you see every day. I bet they're ex-Delta and SAS."
— "I've seen a lot of videos of operators training, but this one is incredibly accurate. Who are these guys?"
In response to the backlash, some eagle-eyed users began to speculate about whether they could identify the men in the video. One user in particular, known on Reddit as PragmaticOperator, decided to investigate a little further, drawing on his own military experience and his keen eye for detail.
Identifying the Mystery Operator
On the same day the video was recorded, some paparazzi had photographed Tom as he left the range, still wearing the same outfit he had worn in the simulation. To someone without experience, this might have gone unnoticed. But PragmaticOperator had a keen eye for patterns and details. He shared his observations in a lengthy comment.
— "I think I can identify one of the operators in the video. I noticed that he is wearing a gray shirt with a specific cut on the sleeves and that his vest has an unusual shape. The same outfit was seen in photos of Tom, Kim Kardashian's boyfriend, taken the same day outside the range. And if I remember correctly, it was confirmed that Tom is ex-SAS."
The community reacted with shock and curiosity. The comment gained traction, being quickly liked and commented on.
— "Are you saying that an ex-SAS, Kardashian's boyfriend, did this simulation?!"
— "Now it makes sense. Tom always seemed to have a unique background, but this is on another level."
Within hours, the thread became the most commented on, and the video's views exploded.
The Repercussion Grows
Soon, the story began to spread across other social networks. Twitter and Instagram users who followed both the celebrity and military worlds began to debate and speculate. It was rare to see a public figure with this kind of background, especially with skills that still seemed so sharp.
The shooting range itself, which had posted the video without revealing identities, saw the content go viral on several platforms. The owner of the place was surprised by the reach and wondered if Tom would have any problem with the repercussion. However, when he remembered Tom's request for anonymity, he felt relieved that he had not revealed names.
Still, the comments continued:
— "Who would have thought that Tom, besides being Kim Kardashian's boyfriend, was a true elite operator?"
— "His accuracy is absurd! It's good to see a real SAS in action."
— "This guy ages like wine and on top of that he is a high-level operator. Kim is very lucky!"
Tom's Reaction
At home, Tom noticed the online commotion when he started receiving messages from friends and former teammates. Several of them sent links to the video, with messages of surprise and some jokes. Kim, who was next to him when he opened one of the links, widened her eyes when she saw the amount of comments and shares.
"Tom, you're famous! More than you already were, at least," she said, laughing.
Tom sighed and shrugged, smiling softly.
"I guess you can't escape the past, even if you try. Once an SAS, always an SAS, I suppose."
Kim laughed, leaning on his shoulder.
"I love that about you. And from what I can see, it seems the whole world is admiring you too. Some even say you look like a cross between James Bond and a superhero."
Tom smiled, appreciating the lightheartedness with which Kim took the situation. Despite the unwanted attention, he knew he could count on her to see the bright side of everything.
Memories and Reflections
Later, Tom went to his home office, where he kept a few mementos from his time in the SAS, including photos of his team and some of the medals he had won. He ran his fingers along the frame of one of the photos, remembering his old team and how life had changed drastically since then.
A notification popped up on his phone. It was a message from an old SAS buddy.
— "I saw your video, Tom. You still have it. I never would have guessed you'd be on Reddit as a mystery operator. Proud of you, mate."
Tom smiled, feeling the warmth of memories and camaraderie that, despite time and distance, never faded.
Community Response
In the days that followed, the video continued to circulate on military forums and among security professionals. The discussions continued and became a virtual classroom for many users who were learning about CQB. Trainee operators, veterans and even curious onlookers watched the details, learning from every move Tom and Chuck made in the video.
— "This is a real lesson! Tom and Chuck gave a demonstration that goes beyond what we normally see."
— "I'd like to see more videos like this, with real operators showing what they know."
At the same time, users who followed the lives of Kim Kardashian and her family began to see Tom in a new light. Many began to see more than just a relationship with a celebrity. His past as an SAS operator and elite agent gave him a new level of respect and admiration.
Tom's New Status
Kim, who never imagined that Tom's military past would spark so much interest, often joked with him.
— So now you're the "officially dangerous and fascinating" boyfriend, huh?
Tom laughed, never ceasing to be humble.
— Fame has its curiosities, but I prefer family afternoons with you and the kids to anything these forums have to say.
Kendall and Kylie, who were following the online repercussion, couldn't resist and started sending Tom funny messages, with memes and jokes.
— "It's official, Tom. You're the biggest military celebrity in our family now!" Kendall sent with a photo of Tom in the video.
Kylie, in turn, posted an Instagram story with a short excerpt from the video and the caption: "Ex-SAS and my favorite brother-in-law. Not bad, huh?"
Even with the intensity of the online comments and discussions, Tom kept his focus on what really mattered: his life with Kim and his new family. For him, the past was something he would always honor, but his future clearly lay with the people he loved.
The episode was just another reminder that, although he had lived through unique and challenging experiences, what mattered most now was building something new, meaningful and peaceful.
And while he could see the irony of his past following him every step of the way, he knew he was exactly where he wanted to be.
Chapter 38
The CQB simulation video that had initially circulated on military and veterans' forums had finally moved beyond those circles and began to attract attention from tabloids and major television networks. Videos of Tom and Chuck performing the simulation were now featured on numerous websites and social media sites, where they were analyzed and commented on by experts and enthusiasts.
Late-night talk shows and news channels devoted entire segments to the viral video. Audiences who were not normally drawn to military topics were now fascinated by the demonstration of tactical skills, and the presence of Tom Kim Kardashian's boyfriend and a former SAS further fueled the general interest. Many wanted to understand what made this video so different from any other ordinary training they had seen.
Tom was at Kim's house that day, watching television while she sorted through some papers in her office. He casually flipped through the channels until a familiar image caught his eye. He stopped fiddling with the remote and frowned. It was the simulation video being shown on a news channel. He turned up the volume, curious and a little skeptical about how the video would be covered.
The presenter smiled as she introduced the clip.
— "And now, a curiosity that is catching the attention of the audience. Can you believe that Kim Kardashian's boyfriend is a real war hero? The video we are going to show you next was made during a simulation between two elite veterans. And yes, one of them is none other than Tom, ex-SAS and current boyfriend of one of the biggest stars in Hollywood."
As the video played on the screen, the presenter continued.
— "To understand more about what makes this simulation so impressive, we invited Colonel Harris, a 25-year veteran of the United States Army, to explain to us what these operators are doing and why it looks so... incredible."
The Expert Analysis
Colonel Harris appeared on the screen, with a serious look and a restrained smile, ready to share his analysis.
— "Well, what we're seeing here is not just an ordinary demonstration. These two are using CQB, or close quarters combat, skills with a precision that only comes after years of intense training. This level of synchronization and silence is rare, even in highly trained teams. Take, for example, the way they enter rooms. They are in complete synchrony, and every move is made with pinpoint precision. No wasted energy, no false steps."
The camera cut back to the studio, where the presenter looked impressed.
— "So, Colonel, can we say that Tom is someone really special?"
The Colonel smiled.
— "Definitely. Tom is an ex-SAS, which means he belonged to the highest level of special operations in the UK. Just by watching this video, I can tell that he is someone who has remained in great shape and has incredible reflexes. And let's be honest, not everyone has that kind of skill even after leaving the service."
The presenter laughed.
— "Impressive. I believe Kim Kardashian has found a true hero, in addition to a boyfriend."
The Repercussion Among the Public
On social media, the video had already become a trending topic. Kim Kardashian fan profiles and even news accounts commented on the "Mysterious Operator" who had won the hearts of the public and left many curious about his past. Some users joked that Kim seemed to be living a real-life spy movie.
Comments on Social Media:
— "Guys, who would have thought that Kim's boyfriend was basically a real-life James Bond?!"
— "Watching the skydiving video and now this CQB one... I think Kim found the coolest guy in the world."
— "I need to know more about this Tom. We already have a new favorite in the celebrity world."
Other profiles specialized in pop culture posted the video and detailed what was known about Tom, raising rumors about his past. Some tabloids even suggested that he had participated in super-secret missions, which only increased the mystique surrounding his figure.
Kim and Tom's Reaction
Tom sighed and turned off the TV, knowing that this video was far from being forgotten any time soon. Kim appeared in the room shortly after, with a curious look.
"What's up, Tom? I saw you were focused on the TV."
He looked at her, a little disconcerted, but with a playful smile.
"Well, it seems that my "war hero video" reached other audiences. They even talked about me on the news."
Kim's eyes widened and she laughed.
"Oh my God, Tom! Welcome to the weirder side of fame. What did they say?"
Tom smiled and shook his head.
"They said you're dating someone who looks like a cross between James Bond and Rambo, I think."
Kim laughed, amused by the idea.
— Oh, that's perfect! Now the whole world will know how cool you are, darling.
He rolled his eyes, still smiling, and put his arm around her.
"Well, at least I only have one person to impress," he said, kissing her on the forehead.
Kim hugged him, pleased that Tom was handling the situation well.
"If it helps, I was already impressed from the start."
More TV Analysis
A few days later, another late-night talk show explored the video. This time, the host joked about Tom being a "real-life James Bond" and invited a military tactics expert to discuss the video. The expert, a former tactical operations commander, laughed at the comparison.
"Well, I'd say the video shows more than just a simulation. It's rare to see that kind of precision, even in elite teams. Whoever was watching these two really got lucky. And honestly, if I had to pick someone to act as a consultant on a spy movie, he would be at the top of the list."
The host laughed.
— "So it's official. Kim Kardashian's boyfriend is Hollywood's new hero."
The audience applauded, and social media went wild.
Tom's Friends Reacted
As the video continued to circulate, Tom received messages from his former teammates. Some were purely reminiscing about the good times, while others were full of jokes. One friend in particular, Jamie, sent him a message with a meme comparing Tom to a superhero.
— "You've become a legend, Tom. Who would have thought the whole world would see you in action again. Now all that's left is for them to ask you to do a movie."
Tom laughed and replied.
— "I prefer my anonymity, but I'll take the laughs. You also participated in some of those simulations, remember?"
Jamie sent a laughing emoji.
— "But I never became the "Kardashian Bond". Yeah, looks like you're the new media guy now. I'm going to take advantage of the moment to tell some stories about you, maybe some tabloid will pay me!"
Tom shook his head, laughing.
Focus on the Present
Despite all the fuss, Tom remained focused on his life with Kim and the children. He knew that his exposure was temporary and that eventually the media would find another story to pursue. Until then, he enjoyed the moments that this curious "fame" gave him.
Kim, in turn, continued to be delighted and proud to see how well Tom handled the situation. She loved watching the videos and seeing people's reactions when they found out that her boyfriend was a true hero.
One night, while they were relaxing on the couch, Kim caressed his face and said:
"Thank you for sharing a little more of your story with me and with the world. I'm very proud of who you are."
Tom smiled, kissing her affectionately.
"The past was important, but it's with you that I want to build the future." And so, he realized that, despite being "discovered" by the world, he still maintained what he valued most: a full life alongside the one he loved.
Chapter 39
That afternoon, the Kardashian-Jenner family was gathered at Kim's house for a casual lunch. The kids were playing in the backyard, while Kim's sisters took the opportunity to chat and catch up. In the middle of the conversation, Kendall mentioned that she had seen the famous video of Tom, which was now circulating widely on the internet.
— "Did you guys see Tom's video? He's amazing! Kim, how come you never told us about the things he did?" Kendall said excitedly, as she fumbled through her phone trying to find the video to show again.
Kim laughed, a little embarrassed.
— "I did, but maybe you didn't understand that he was... like that. I thought you knew he was in the military."
Kylie shook her head and looked at Kim with a surprised smile.
— "Of course, we knew that, Kim, but seeing it is something else! The guy is a real spy from an action movie. I'm shocked!"
As soon as the video started playing on Kendall's phone, the other sisters came over to watch. It was a tense but absolutely fascinating moment as Tom and his training partner simulated CQB with military precision. The sisters watched intently, enchanted by the skill and calm he maintained with each move.
Kourtney, who was usually more serious, even let out a surprised smile as she watched.
— "Wow, I never thought I would feel so safe around someone. This man really knows what he's doing."
Khloe started laughing, elbowing Kim lightly.
— "I'm officially more impressed with Tom now than I've ever been with any of our exes. He's basically a superhero!"
The kids, who were playing nearby, heard the comment and ran to see what their aunts were talking about. Saint, the most curious, looked at Kendall's phone and immediately recognized "Uncle Tom" in the video.
— "Look, it's Uncle Tom! Is he playing cops and robbers?"
The sisters laughed and Kim stroked Saint's hair.
— "It's not really cops and robbers, but more of a simulation he did with another military friend."
North also came closer, looking wide-eyed.
— "Uncle Tom is the best! Can he teach us how to do that too, Mommy?"
Kim looked at her sisters, who also had that curious expression, as if they had returned to their childhood.
— "You're all the same," Kim said, laughing. "He already said he doesn't want this life anymore, but maybe one day he'll teach you a little bit. But only if he wants to!"
The Sisters' Excitement
Kendall crossed her arms, amused.
— "Oh, Kim, stop being so controlling! We just want to learn a little, something simple. I bet he could teach us just the basics."
Kylie nodded, excited.
— "That's it! Just imagine, us doing some training with him. I'm not talking about anything dangerous, just something... fun!"
Kim sighed, but realized that they weren't going to give up so easily. At the same time, she was amused by the idea of her sisters being so excited.
— "Okay, I'll talk to him, but I'm not promising anything. You know how he is with these safety things, he's super discreet and careful."
Khloe shrugged, laughing.
— "Just if he agrees to teach us a fraction of what he knows, that would be amazing!"
Kendall smiled, almost too excited.
— "Now I have to convince him!"
The Pride and Excitement of the Children
The children were equally excited. Saint, who now couldn't take his eyes off the video, turned to Kim.
— "Mommy, Uncle Tom is the best! Can he be my new superhero?"
North, full of attitude, was also delighted.
— "I think Uncle Tom can do anything! He's the best uncle in the world!"
Kim looked at her children, her heart warming at how much Tom already meant to them. To her, the video was a demonstration of past skills, but to the kids, he had truly become a hero. It was as if Tom had brought something extra into their lives, a sense of security and adventure that they loved.
— "I think he's already a superhero just for taking care of us so much," Kim said, smiling at the kids.
Tom's Arrival
Shortly after, Tom arrived at the house, having no idea that his "fame" and his video had caused such a stir in the family. He walked through the living room door and was immediately met with Kendall, Kylie, and Khloe grinning from ear to ear, as if they were about to ask him for a big favor.
Tom raised his eyebrows in confusion.
— "Hi, guys. What did I miss?"
Kim walked over to him and gave him a light kiss on the cheek.
— "I don't think you lost, but you gained some new fans here at home."
Kendall got straight to the point.
— "Tom, do you think you could ever teach us how to do some of the things in that video?"
He laughed in surprise.
— "Do you guys want to do CQB?"
Kylie shook her head, laughing.
— "Not really, just... maybe something basic, just to give you an idea."
He looked at Kim, who shrugged, trying to hide her laughter.
— "They've been talking about it ever since they saw the video, honey. It seems like you're their new idol."
Tom laughed again, still surprised, but accepting the situation with good humor.
— "Well, I can think of something. Nothing risky, of course. Maybe just some basic defense techniques. How about that?"
The sisters exclaimed with excitement, and even the kids were excited. To them, the idea of learning from Uncle Tom seemed like the coolest thing in the world.
A Basic Lesson with Tom
That afternoon, Tom set up a little makeshift "training" in the backyard. The Kardashian sisters were ready and eager, and even Kim watched with a mix of pride and amusement as he showed them the basics.
Tom gave a short safety lecture, explaining the importance of attention and control, and then started with some simple moves, teaching them how to maintain balance, protect themselves, and some basic defense steps.
Kendall and Kylie were attentive and diligent, following each move carefully. Khloe, who loved physical activities, was excited about the chance to learn something new. Tom laughed at how seriously they all took the training, and even the kids tried to imitate some of the moves. After a few minutes, he stopped to explain a few more techniques.
— "These are just the basics, to help you gain more confidence and control. And remember: the idea is to avoid trouble, not look for it."
Kendall gave a mischievous smile. — "Understood, Captain."
Kylie raised her hand as if she were in a classroom. — "Can I ask you something?"
Tom smiled and gestured for her to continue.
— "Do you think you could teach us how to shoot someday, too?"
Kim laughed out loud, while Tom raised his eyebrows in surprise. — "Take it easy! One step at a time."
By the time the afternoon was over, everyone was exhausted but full of energy. The Kardashian sisters couldn't stop talking about how fun and interesting the training was, and the kids kept repeating how much "Uncle Tom" was the best.
At the end of the day, as Kim and Tom were packing up what they had used in the improvised training, she approached him and hugged him.
— "You really won everyone over, you know?"
Tom smiled, wrapping his arms around her.
— "I just hope I helped in some way. But I think they were more excited about the idea than anything I taught them."
Kim looked at him fondly.
— "They're thrilled that you brought something new to our lives. And honestly, even I'm more impressed than ever."
They exchanged a knowing smile. That day, Tom had once again strengthened the bond he shared with that family and shown that, to them, he was much more than just a man with an interesting past.
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