Disclaimer: I don't own HSM or the lyrics, which are off of Vanessa Hudgen's 2nd album Identified. The song is called Gone with the Wind, and its personally one of my favs.

Author's Note: So, thanks so much for the lovely reviews! A special thanks goes out to Berry and Lynn who are both persistent in their demands about this story. I hope y'all like this chapter, I know this story is a little boring right now but these chapters will get more exciting! Reviews are wonderful! Thanks again! Now, on to Chapter 2.

Chapter 2: Gone with the Wind

"Hello? Anyone home?" My voice rang throughout the apartment, later that evening. The quiet told me there was no one home anymore. "Huh, Shar must've left already."

"It's only 5:30 though," Kelsi answered as we made our way into the living room.

"It was an early party I think. They are starting tomorrow and didn't want everyone too tired." I replied logically. I sat on the puffy off white couch and let my head rest on the square black pillows.

"Oh, well that makes sense." Kelsi said as she sat on the opposite end of the couch. "So, you ready to work for a little bit?"

I nodded, but didn't move from my position, "My laptop is in my room. I'll go get it."

Kelsi giggled, "Do you want me to get it?"

"If you want," I answered smiling. I watched as she got up off the couch and went into my room. Five minutes later she came out with my laptop in hand. She powered up the MacBook and the familiar starting music sounded.

I lifted my head up off the pillows and laughed, "Thanks Kels."

"Your welcome Gabi," she replied moving the mouse to get into my song lyrics, and she also opened up Garage Band, the music software we used to pair the words with some music. Her light eyes read what I had started writing last time we had done this and she smiled, "This is good Gabi."

I couldn't help but blush, "Thanks. Its nothing really though. I was just playing around with some words."

Kelsi scoffed, "Gabi, you really need to realize your talent! I can see it. Sharpay and Ryan both saw it in high school. Why can't you?"

I sighed, "I don't know Kelsi. I think that if I get too attached to music and it doesn't work out then I'll give it up forever. I don't want that. I want to be successful in something I love."

I watched her smile slowly, "You will succeed. I think that if we work on this song, maybe tweak some words, it really can be great. I can almost hear the song in my head!" She hummed some notes, to a soft rhythm and I could hear the melody in my head fit with the notes.

I couldn't help but laugh, "Wow, that's really good Kels."

She blushed, "Yeah, well we'll see how it fits into the song. Go ahead and sing it."

I frowned, "Now?"

"Now." She stated, knowing I would do anything to get out of signing in front of her.

I stuck my tongue out at her, "Fine." I cleared my throat, and with Kelsi's notes in mind and my melody I started to sing.

I used to think

Being like you

Was the key to having everything every dream come true

I used to think

Following the crowd

Was the only thing that I could do until I found out

The last note rang in the air. Kelsi shivered. "Wow, Gabi that was awesome! The lyrics really bring the song alive."

"Thanks," I answered bashfully.

"Now, lets figure out the melody, I think what you are singing is really great…" She went on to tell me what all she wanted to add to the song and what we could do to make the song stand out better. I couldn't help but smile as her eyes sparkled with excitement with something to do. She was the type of person who threw themselves into their work, no matter how much time it was going to take. I let myself be involved with the song though. Whenever we did this I never really paid attention. Kelsi was the one who tried to make the songs good, the one who tried to make the melodies fit with the tone of the song. I had never been too inspired until now. This song had real meaning to me and I didn't want to just through it into the wind with out it being prepared right.

"Do you have a chorus written out too?" Kelsi asked a few minutes later, we had figured out the first part of the song and were know working on another verse and the chorus.

I thought for a moment, I knew I had one stored in my computer, "I think so. Why?"

"Because if we get this finished before the game tonight, I really think we could take it into Columbia tomorrow and show them your talent." She said excited. The one great thing about Kelsi is that she believed in everyone all the time. But sometimes it wasn't worth getting all worked up.

"I don't know Kelsi. Can we really get this song done in an hour and half?" I asked, hoping that we couldn't. With this song, I needed it to be perfect. I wanted it to speak to people and to give it away to Columbia just like that it wasn't what I wanted. The more she pushed me the further into my shell I went. She knew that to.

She heard the hope in my voice, "Maybe not. This really means a lot to you doesn't it?"

"What? The song?" I asked trying to be oblivious to her questions.

She nodded patiently, "Yes, the song. It just…sounds a lot like you in high school and the beginning of college I guess. You've changed Gabi. You aren't the same naive little girl you were back then."

"You really know me too well Kels." I paused. How do you tell one of your best friends that you haven't changed like they think you have? Sure I wasn't naïve anymore but I wasn't confident either. I was still the little shy girl, who had gotten her heartbroken in college and had never really recovered. I sighed, "I know I'm not naïve but I am cynical. Being in LA has made me that way. I don't believe in myself anymore. I'm not the carefree girl anymore. That girl has gone into the wind and she's not coming back anymore. I just go through life not knowing what I want and that's not me. I've always had a clear plan and now its all wrong…"

Kelsi hesitated before she answered. Finally she said, "Gabi, you are my best friend. I have known you almost all of my life and do you think I would still be here if you were the person you just described? I know I wouldn't be here, but that's not you. Sure, you are a little more cynical but who the hell isn't? This is Hollywood baby and if you can make here you can make it anywhere. I think you will make it here you just have to believe in yourself. I can't be the only one to believe in you. Its too tiring." She finished lightheartedly.

I smiled, "Thanks Kelsi. I don't know what I would do without you."

"You'd be stuck with only Sharpay and then you would be her twin. Some crazy neurotic pink wearing fool. I like my sweet and shy Gabi. That one would be weird." She said giggling.

I couldn't help but picture in my head; I shuddered at the thought, "Ew, that would be weird." I sighed and took the computer from Kelsi, "Come on we're going to finish this song tonight."

She squealed and leaned over to hug me, "Yes! OK, now…" She turned into business Kelsi, "Let's do this for the chorus." She scribbled some words down and I read them, liking the sound of them and they really fit the rhythm and tone of the song. She paused the paper towards me more and said, "Sing."

"Fine," I answered. I opened my mouth and the notes flew out of me and the words followed.

I'm okay (dig it)

Sometimes you gotta do your own thing (dig it)

Every winter turns to spring (dig it)

And everybodies got there own wings

The little girl you knew

The one that never stood up to you

Who kept her silence too long

Well she's gone with the wind

And now I'm standin my ground

And who I am and for that I'm proud

And the girl that you knew

Well she's gone with the wind

Kelsi closed her eyes and listened the song and sighed, "I seriously don't believe how you can have faith in yourself Gabi. Your voice is so much better than half the stars out there today."

I felt my face flush lightly, "Thanks."

She looked at the clock and smiled, "Well, looks like you got your wish. Its almost 6 and we have to get ready for the game."

I frowned, "I really do want to finish it Kelsi. Not just to send it out but for me."

She nodded, "I know Gabi. I know you do. We will finish it. Sometime over the weekend we will get together. Sunday is good for me, how about you?"

I nodded, already feeling excited, "Yep, Sunday is fine."

"Good, now do you have anything I can wear to the game?" She asked a huge grin spreading across her face.

I laughed, "Of course I do Kels! Lets go raid my closet."

We both got up off the couch and made a beeline for my closet. You know it was so funny. We could be so serious one minute then the next get all giddy over a vintage Diane Von Furstenberg top. That's how friends are though.

I couldn't help but laugh at the fact that Kelsi was still fawning over my top. It was a light blue, billowy top and it fit her perfectly. She paired it with her dark skinny jeans, and she used my straightener to get her curls to corporate, and put on her striped newsboy cap and she was ready to go. I put on my favorite pair of flared True Religion jeans and my Lakers jersey; it fit perfectly on my curves. Paired with yellow ballet flats, and throwing my hair into a messy bun, my curls framing my face delicately, I was ready to go too.

"Ready Kels?" I asked, as I made sure to grab my phone, my Louis Vuitton wristlet, and my car keys.

She nodded, and followed me out the door, "Ready as I'll ever be Gabi."

I noticed her strange expression, "You'll be fine Kelsi. Its just a basketball game."

"That's what you said last time and I couldn't write music for a week!" She muttered.

I thought back to that time in high I had begged both her and Sharpay to go with me to our high school's boy's basketball game. They won but Kelsi got hit with a ball. Her fingers were all jammed and she refused to speak to me for a week. I giggled at the memory.

"I promise this time will be ok. No more flying basketballs." I promised her as we made our way into my car once again. I sped off into traffic and made my way to the Staples Center, my stomach bubbling with excitement. There was something in the air I could feel it. It was going to be a good game, I thought to myself.

_____________________________________________________________

As we made our way into the front of the line, I couldn't help but get excited. I hadn't been to a game yet and being here with a new friend just made it better. We reached the front of the line and there was the huge security guy, his whole body blocking the doorway, a large smile appeared on his round face, as he looked us both up and down.

"What can I do for you ladies?" He asked, his eyes still wandering.

"We're here with Taylor McKessie." I told him, letting my voice go cold.

He looked me up and down, I let my eyes narrow in disgust, and he smiled, "Oh, right she said that she was bringing some friends." He smiled, I felt chills go down my back, "Do you need some help getting you your seats?" He asked as he handed me our tickets. My eyes widened. Floor seats! Damn, when Taylor apologized, she apologized in style!

"Um, nope, I think we've got it," Kelsi said as she looked at the tickets too. Her face looked just as surprised as mine.

The security guard let us through the doors and we made our way through the dark tunnels of the basketball arena.

"Floor seats?" I squealed as soon as we were out of the guard's sight.

"I didn't know they would be that good of seats! Damn, she definitely knows one of the players." Kelsi answered, her light eyes twinkling with excitement.

I laughed, "And to think you didn't even want to come!"

Kelsi smiled, "I'm only here because she wanted to apologize to both of us. But the first ball that comes my way you are in trouble."

"Fair enough." I answered as we made out way onto the court. I saw the Lakers practicing and I heard someone call my name. I turned my head and there was Taylor sitting in one of the pull out chairs they leave for the celebrities and the players' families. Yep, she totally knew some of the players for her to be able to score these tickets. I waved to her and we made our way over to less crowded area of the court.

"Hey guys!" Taylor said, a warm smile spread across her face.

"Hey Taylor!" I said still in awe. "Great seats!"

She giggled, "I know a few people."

"Know? More like you are sleeping with one of the players!" Kelsi blurted out. "Oh, sorry, that was really rude." She said blushing a deep red.

Taylor just laughed, "Eh, don't worry about it and yes I am sleeping with one of the players. We are engaged actually."

My mouth dropped, "Seriously?"

She nodded, a smile still on her face, it was obviously she was over this afternoon. "Yeah, I'll show you after the game if you want. We are going to a friend's restaurant later after the game. You guys are more than welcome if you all are up for it?"

I nodded, "Totally! Seriously though Taylor you didn't have to go this far for two people you don't know very well."

She shrugged my comment off, "Nah, its cool. I come to every game and I might as well and have some people to talk to. My boyfriends, I mean fiancée's manager really isn't into planning a wedding during a basketball game."

Kelsi and I giggled. I sat down in one of the seats and smiled, "Oh, wow, this is so cool Tay!"

Taylor looked at Kelsi with a questioning glance and asked, "Does she always get this excited over the little things?"

Kelsi smiled, "Yep. But you learn to get used to it."

I rolled my eyes at them already discussing me as if they had known me all of my life, "Thanks Kels. Tay, seriously thanks so much again!"

Taylor laughed, "Stop thanking me Gabi, or else I won't bring you to the next one."

I smiled, "OK, as long as you let me pay for the tickets or something. Coming to games for free, not my thing."

"You can pay for parking ok? The guys get the tickets for free, so we might as well and use them. Besides, the entertainment you bring, its priceless really."

I sighed, "I get that a lot."

She just laughed. The buzzer sounded for the start of the game. The announcer started to read off the players' names in a booming voice. The crowd cheered for their favorites. I kept my eyes on Taylor, hoping to figure out which guy she was with.

"And here is, number 8, Chad Danforth!" I caught Taylor's eye and she just blushed.

"Nice choice," I said over the crowd.

"Thanks," she answered, still blushing a deep red.

I turned my attention back to the court just as the announcer read his name.

"And now ladies and gentlemen! Starting point guard, number 14, Trooooooyyyy Bolton!!!" The crowd jumped to its feet and I felt my heart race faster and blood started to race. I watched as the perfect man walked out onto the floor, his ocean colored eyes (I know that because well…I am a huge fan of Bolton. He is the best basketball player in the NBA and possibly the hottest one too.) sparkling with excitement. I could almost see the blush tinting his tan cheeks. His strong arms rose above his head, the muscles were there but not too bulging though, as he too clapped for his teammates and he smiled as the crowd cheered louder for him.

I stood on my feet and clapped for him too. Taylor and Kelsi looked at me strangely. I just shrugged. No one knew that he was my celebrity crush and seeing him in action was really big for me. Plus, supporting my team was a total plus.

The buzzer finally sounded for the beginning of the game and I watched as the ball was put into play. Bolton had the ball and it was soon into Danforth's hands who went for the easy lay-up. They slapped hands as they charged back down the court to get the ball back. I laughed as I saw Taylor standing up with me screaming her head off.

As I turned my attention back to game, which was now 10-9 Lakers were up by one, I couldn't keep my eyes off of Bolton. A side from the fact that he was really talented, he was the kind of guy that someone could really look up to. It was as if he could care less about the fame. He was just out there playing basketball. I admired that in him, sometimes I wished that things came easily to me. I wanted to be able to just reach out and touch my dreams. But instead I was working horrible hours, fetching people coffee, dealing with divas, and learning little to nothing about the music industry.

I got out of my head and went back to watching the close game, 30-27 now Lakers still up, and admiring the player that was Troy Bolton.

The cheering crowd filed out as the players left the court and went back into each of their locker rooms. I couldn't stop smiling. The Lakers had swept the Utah Jazz, with a roaring victory, which secured the Lakers first in their conference.

"So, you all are still coming to the restaurant with us right?" Taylor asked as we made our selves comfortable in the pull out chairs, waiting for her fiancé and friends to come out.

I nodded, Kelsi also nodded, and I replied, "Yeah, I mean if it's ok with your friends. I really don't want to impose."

"Nah, its cool. Plus I really like you two. Even though my boss sucks I feel like you are both in the same boat as me and we have a lot in common." Taylor answered.

I did feel a common bond with the young woman. She was stuck in a job that she hated but loved the fact that she could have so many doors opened for her if she stuck with it. "Aw, Tay, you are too sweet. But hey, this is LA and anything can happen."

She laughed, "You are right about that." Her head shot up as she heard a loud booming laugh from across the court. I watched as a beaming smile spread onto her soft features. She waved to the dark skinned boy, whose afro was almost as big as a basketball, and he smiled in return. A look of love was passed through the engaged couple. I had to look away. Kelsi smiled at them, she was the hopeless romantic.

I looked up, as I heard another laugh, not nearly as loud as the first one but it sent shivers down my back. Troy Bolton let his hand slap against Chad Danforth's shoulders and I could almost hear the teasing in his laugh.

"You're friends with Troy Bolton?" I couldn't help but ask quietly as they made their way over to us.

Taylor nodded, "Yeah, he and Chad have been best friends ever since they were little. We all met in elementary school, but we weren't really friends until high school. Chad and I started dating senior year in high school and have been together ever since."

"It's like a fairy tale." Kelsi commented quietly.

Taylor sighed, "Not really see, Chad and I have been together for that long but we have broken up more times than I can count. He's a typical guy though. We've only just settled down, when I moved into his place and he decided 2 weeks ago that he would propose. I couldn't help but say yes I guess." She paused and her eyes widened, "Oh God, I can't believe I said all that! Sorry, I tend to be very blunt when it comes to Chad."

"It's fine." I replied. "This is what girls do. We listen to each others boy problems and advise each other on how to hurt the guy without him even knowing it."

Kelsi smiled evilly, "Gabi is great at figuring those out."

I laughed, "Well, it is a talent I guess."

"I might have to take you up on that," Taylor answered, her eyes locked with Chad's once again as they were now just a few steps away from us. Chad walked towards us with a smile on his face, he kind of reminded me of a little kid on Christmas, but I had the feeling that he always looked that way.

"Hey baby," he said smoothly, as he wrapped his arms around her in a hug. She smiled and couldn't help but giggle as he pressed soft kisses into her hair.

"Great game Chad," she answered still snuggly wrapped in his arms.

"Thanks," he answered as he pulled away slightly. "Are these your new friends Tay?" he asked her a slight frown crowding his features. I knew I didn't know him very well but the frown looked wrong on his usually happy face.

She nodded, "Yeah, this is Gabriella Montez and Kelsi Neilson. They work at Columbia and were on the receiving end of my rampage after Paige's meeting this morning."

The frown disappeared, "Ah, so these are the poor girls you scared! Don't worry, she might act scary but she wouldn't hurt you really. She saves the violence for me."

I let a giggle escape me, "From what she's told us I don't find that hard to believe."

He chuckled, "You've been talking about me already?"

She smiled shyly, "Maybe?"

He just shook his head and waved over Tory Bolton. "Yo! Troy! Come and meet Tay's new friends."

Troy smiled bashfully at the interviewers and said a few more things to them. He finally made his way over to us and I felt my knees go weak at the sight of him. I leaned into Kelsi for support.

"You ok?" His soft, tender voice asked me as I stood, unsteady in my spot.

I nodded, unable to form words.

"Troy, this is Gabriella Montez and Kelsi Neilson." Taylor introduced us, with a knowing smirk on her face.

"They are the girls who survived Tay and Paige today," Chad replied laughing once again.

Troy's shocking blue eyes widened in mock horror, "And they lived to tell us about it?"

Taylor narrowed her eyes, I could see how they were surprised that Kelsi and I had both survived her, that glare was scary. "Are you two done yet?"

"Aw, Tay, you know we are just teasing." Troy replied smiling. He and Chad shared a knowing look that didn't go unnoticed by the watchful eyes of Taylor.

"What now?" Taylor asked as we made our way through the dark hallways and out the doors of the Staples Center.

"Nothing," they chorused which we all knew meant something.

She just rolled her eyes at them both. "Fine. Gabi and Kels are both going with us to visit the gang, and we were supposed to be there twenty minutes ago. You know Zeke hates it when were late."

"Sorry Tay. You know this hair takes a long time!" Chad whined. She just laughed and walked ahead of them and fell into step with Kelsi. I lagged behind them and fell into step with the boys.

"You sure you ok?" Troy asked quietly. His eyes locking with mine.

"Of course she's not Troy. She is meeting the stars of the Lakers basketball team!" Chad exclaimed ridiculously.

I let another laugh leave my lips. My eyes met with Troy's and a wave of electricity passed through us. I felt my blood race to my cheeks and I let my hair fall in face blocking my view from him and his too. I hadn't been looked at like that in a long time. I wasn't sure if I was completely ready for it especially with a basketball superstar.

I finally found my voice and answered Chad sarcastically, "You're right Chad. I've been a fan of you guys ever since I moved to LA. But I didn't want to sound to much like a crazy fan, so I kept my screaming inside."

Troy laughed, as Chad watched me with a bemused expression, "Girls got jokes huh?"

I shrugged, "Maybe. I do have a quick tongue. Or so I've been told." I smirked as I went to catch up with the girls. I heard Troy's sweet laugh again. I heard him tease Chad some more and I couldn't help but smile at myself. See, I could be the cool nonchalant girl. Even though I was jelly inside I could still be the witty girl and say things that actually make sense to superstars.

"You like Troy huh?" Taylor asked, already knowing the answer.

I smiled softly as I looked back and Tory was still teasing Chad mercilessly, "I don't know to be honest."

"Don't even go there Tay. Gabi is very weird about dating. Its kind of like she is a nun or something." Kelsi teased lightly.

Taylor looked me up and down, "Nah, too hot to be a nun."

I blushed, "Um, thanks?"

She smiled, "Don't mention it. As for Troy, be careful. Girls tend to throw themselves at him and he doesn't last very long in relationships because of it."

I nodded sadly, I knew there was a catch to a great guy like Troy, "I kind of figured."

"You can always try though," she whispered. "I think he likes you."

"Really?" I perked up instantly.

"Really." She stated. As she turned around I followed her gaze and sure enough Troy was watching me walk. He blushed lightly as we caught him looking.

"Well, that's nice to know," I answered as we had reached my car. "So, what's the restaurant we're going to?"

"Very subtle," Kelsi muttered. I glared at her.

"Zeke's is the restaurant name. I'll go with you girls and the boys can follow us," Taylor suggested.

"Sounds good to us," Chad answered. He kissed Taylor quickly on the lips and Troy followed him to his car.

I turned my car out of the parking lot and listened to Taylor's directions. We drove through Hollywood and finally landed in Studio City where Taylor told me the restaurant was located. I turned down a quiet street, where there were a lot of cars parked outside the small restaurant. My stomach grumbled quietly. Taylor and Kelsi both laughed at me as we found a parking spot close to the front door. We ducked passed the paparazzi that were stationed outside Zeke's.

"Do they always do that?" I asked Taylor, as we made our way to the table.

"Do what?" She asked. she had walked past them without a thought in the world. Sometimes it pays to get out more, I couldn't help but think to myself. I wasn't used to the whole shoving a camera in your face then pushing past you to get to someone more famous.

"Shove their camera right in your eyes," I answered angrily, I was still seeing spots.

"Yeah, they do, but I guess I'm used to it now." She said with a brush of her hand.

"Huh," I said as I took a look at the menu. Everything sounded really delicious.

"Hey girls!" Chad's friendly voice said as the boys sat down at our table. Troy was conveniently sitting next to me. I could smell his cologne even.

"Ready to order?" The waiter asked patiently.

"Yep," Chad replied and started reeling off different dishes with ease. I giggled quietly as he continued to order for another few minutes. A burger with fries, the steak, the garlic fried chicken with a side salad, and crème brulee for desert. "Anyone else want anything?" he asked.

"Nah, we'll just all share," Taylor said and told the waiter her drink order and we all followed suit.

"Ella?" I heard a familiar, dramatic, voice ask.

"Shar?" I asked as I turned around and there stood Sharpay in all her glory. She was head to toe in pick sequins, with a pair of silver boots.

"What are you doing here?" She asked as she took in the people I was sitting with. I could tell she as impressed but Sharpay was not the type of person to squeal over famous people. After all she was going to be them one day she kept on telling me.

"Um, we are just hanging out?" I offered carefully. Kelsi looked at me sympathetically.

"Oh, well ok," She answered. "See you at home?"

"Yeah, I should be home later." I knew what she meant by that. She was going to grill me once I got home.

"Nice to meet you all," she said and with a dramatic wave of her hair she was off.

"That was close," Kelsi said.

"She'll be fine Kels." I said not daring to look up at the others who were probably wearing confused expressions. Finally I looked up and sighed, "And that was Sharpay. My roommate and best friend."

"Really?" Taylor asked her soft features struggling not to laugh at her.

"Yep," I said knowing what each and every one of them was going to say. Not that it bothered me, people always questioned why she and I were friends, but they didn't know her well enough to judge her. "She is one of a kind."

"Well, she seems interesting," Troy said as he followed her out with his eyes. I slumped in my seat, I should be used to it. She always does that. Sharpay was known for taking anyone and everyone's thunder. It was just her personality really. I should be used to it, seeing as we have never liked the same guy nor has the same guy ever liked us both, but I guess this was a time for firsts. And that is why I don't date. Way to complicated.

"That she is, but you will have to wait and see." I answered. His eyes caught mine and I looked away. See, I told you I wasn't ready for this at all. Taylor shot an apologetic glance my way. I smiled back, trying to cover up my disappointment. It didn't help though. If Troy wanted to go after Sharpay then good for him. But it didn't change the fact that I was still a little hurt.