Chapter 3- Family
"Easy love. Don't need my now pregnant wife over-stressing herself."
"I'm only getting ready for bed you nut!" I giggled. "But thank you for the concern. I don't think me unzipping my jeans qualifies for strenuous activity."
"I'll believe that when we talk to the doctor to confirm what we think is true."
"Well I believe it is. Remember the day we had the pool party?"
"Who doesn't?"
"Whatever. Anyway at one point I had this weird feeling come over me that made me put my hand over my stomach like I was trying to protect something."
"You think it could be your paternal instincts kicking in?"
"I don't know. I've babysitted a few times, but I never felt anything like that before."
"Well that confirms it to me." Troy said smiling at me pulling a t-shirt over his head and stripping down to his boxers. "But what about you? Are you comfortable with this whole situation?"
"To tell you the truth, I'm scared stiff Troy. What will mom think? She raised me to be more responsible than this."
"How do you think I feel? I told mom and dad we'd wait until you were out of college to start a family. Now voila we have one on the way."
"Scared, aren't you?"
"More than you think." he sighed. "But I know we can pull it off. Hell, we already have a more than ready home. The only I'd have to do is to have a safety fence put up around the pool."
"Ah, plus baby proof the entire house."
"Work on a nursery."
"Buy maternity and baby clothes, food, diapers."
"Toys, furniture…boy, that's quite the list."
"We got enough saved up for it?"
"I think so." he grinned. "We're more than set in that department babe."
"Thank goodness." I sighed snuggling into his chest. Troy then covered us with the comforter and said "I love you babe."
"I love you too. We're going to be great at this, aren't we?"
"Best parents in the world. We'll go every parenting, birthing, and lamaze class there is to make sure of it."
"Prepared right until the day our child comes into the world. I think we can do it."
"With my might and your brains, I think we can accomplish anything."
"So sweetie, what do you want, a boy or a girl?"
"Doesn't matter. As long as he or she is healthy, that's all that matters."
"Same here. Night."
"Night Gabs."
Week four- Monday. I woke up once again with the usual morning sickness as we had pretty much confirmed, or thought. Depends on how you look at it. Kelsi was an angel helping me in the bathroom while Troy helped with any clean up, making breakfast, and other odds and ends before we all showered and got dressed for a new school day. My feet were already swollen a bit so I wore my sneakers to at least allow for a little more foot room. Kelsi had a beaming smile on her the entire morning saying how much I was glowing and how happy I looked. Even Troy said it, but when I looked into our bedroom mirror, I really could see something different about me. But when I felt that slight twinge I had felt before, my hand immediately went to my stomach protectively as I smiled. "Looking good there." Troy said smiling leaning against our bedroom door frame. "I'm liking this new look."
"It feels so amazing Troy. Just knowing that I'm carrying a living being, our child, within me. I don't know why but I feel so happy it's ridiculous."
"You seem a lot more content also. Maybe this is what life had planned for us after all."
"If it is, I'm going to relish every moment of it. Though mom may think otherwise."
"Well she doesn't have any control over it, now does she? We're legally married with your mom's parental consent, and what we say goes in our marriage. She has no say in anything."
"But what if she kicks me out of the house?"
"Then you live here silly. How many times do I have to remind you of that?"
"Oh yes, of course." I giggled grabbing my purse. "But what about school when it comes time for me to leave?"
"Easy. Homeschooling. I have a teaching license dear. So I can get you a degree without even breaking a sweat and still get you into college with no problems."
"Ah, the benefits of having a teacher as a husband."
"You better believe it. I'll try to call and make an appointment for us at the doctor's office after we get home from school."
"Pick closest one we can get."
"I'll do my best. Now we better get moving. Don't need to be late for our fourth week of school."
"You going to be alright Gabi?"
"I'll be fine Kelsi." I sighed walking into the doors at school a short time later. "Let's just head to the auditorium after I get my things from my locker."
"Sure. Meet you there." I smiled at her and said "See you in a few."
"Okay sis!" she giggled running off. I just smiled back again before making the short trek to my locker. I was still feeling somewhat different yet I was still so content and calm that I felt like nothing could interrupt my mood. As I had predicted though there stood my so called 'friends' crowded around my locker as if they were my secret service agents or something. I just strode over and nudged Sharpay out of my way. "Move."
"Hey! You could have said excuse me!"
"I'm sorry, did you say something?" I sneered opening up my locker. "Or was that just the wind talking?"
"Ha ha, very funny."
"Whatever. Just don't talk to me."
"Why won't you open up to us?!" Taylor then shouted. "Quit being a stuck up bitch and let us help!" and that's when I snapped and slapped her across the face. "Gabi…"
"Me being a bitch?! ME?! This coming from ONE of the MANY people who ganged up on me and nearly sent me into a panic attack. It took the only two people who I could see that really cared about me to take me home and get me back to normality. As far as I'm concerned, you have lost my trust, friendship, and confidence. A true friend would let the other one be until he or she was actually ready to open up about their life was like or what it is or was that is affecting them. So I suggest all of you step away and leave me alone unless you don't want to get hurt as well."
"But Gabi…"
"No, don't call me Gabi ever again. Only my friends are allowed to call me that, and you guys aren't on that list." and so I stomped off towards my now favorite spot to chill out with the only friend I knew I had at the moment. But what I didn't know was that one other person who also cared in the background was right there following me.
"How'd the reunion go?"
"I laid into them Kels. I had no choice."
"You guys still friends?"
"At the moment no. I told them they weren't right now."
"Well, I guess I can't say I blame you. Will you perhaps give them time to maybe perhaps think things through?"
"Maybe, but I'm not going to promise anything. What happened with me and you back when we were kids is just something I don't want to open up about. The only people who know of it are mom, you, and Troy."
"His parents don't know?"
"No." I sighed obviously tired and stressed. "Even they don't. And I trust him to hold onto that story."
"He will I'm sure. He's not only a great teacher, but an awesome friend as well."
"That he is."
"Gabriella?"
"Shannon? Shannon Asmundson? What brings you out here?"
"Well…I saw what happened with your friends…and well…"
"You thought you'd check up on me to see if I was alright?"
"In a sense."
"That's sweet of you. Thanks."
"Listen…I know we don't each other that well…"
"Come on Shannon, we've known each other cordially for three going on four years now. I have yet to see why you're so nervous around me."
"Well, it's the whole cheerleader and nerd complex." she giggled walking up onto the stage.
"Oh lord, not that again. I have no qualms about cheerleaders and they haven't around me since I used to be friends with a couple of their jock friends."
"I saw that fight. I'm really sorry for them treating you like that. I couldn't believe how fragile you looked back there."
"I'm just glad you were there to help. You reacted so fast to the situation it was amazing."
"I'm used to it unfortunately."
"What do you mean?"
"I live in a family where depression is a common disease among us so panic attacks are part of the norm around me."
"Oh I'm sorry to hear that. Do you have it as well?"
"No. It somehow bypassed me by some miracle. But dealing with my younger sister is a different story even with her meds."
"How old is she?"
"Ten and a little spitfire when she's happy. But when it gets bad she can get violent or end up just like you did."
"So what I had was a panic attack?"
"Yes if not close to it. That's why I reacted the way I did. Just having someone there that you know can usually be the best thing to help calm down your nerves. But afterwards can leave a person quite tired and completely worn out."
"And she was, I should know." Kelsi chimed in seriously. "I was the one who took her home and into bed."
"I heard. Boy, it sounds like I'm trying to pry into your lives."
"No, not at all. You were just understanding of the situation and decided to help. Can't ask for a better person than that."
"I'm happy to hear you say that Kelsi. Think we can be friends and all?"
"Sure! What do you think Gabriella?"
"Why not? Think you can handle us Shannon?"
"I think it's doable." she giggled. "Just try not to overcomplicate things."
"Sorry, deal with us, deal with the complications. It's a package deal."
"Fine, just don't expect me to sing with you. I've heard what you can do and believe me, if I tried to sing, I'd scare the school right out of the building." Me and Kelsi both looked at each other, giggled, looked back at Shannon and together we both said "Right…"
"How's your face?"
"Stings a little, but I'll be fine." Taylor sighed. "I can't believe she slapped me."
"Well, you did get on her case a bit."
"Shut it Martha. I would expect her to hit Sharpay, but me?! Even that's a new low for her."
"Enough with the insults Taylor." Sharpay then snapped. "I mean come on! She pushed me to get to her locker! PUSHED!! No one has ever dared to do that before!!"
"Probably because they're afraid of those claws you call nails." Chad said snickering.
"Care to find out afro-boy? I can very easily give you a demonstration of their effectiveness."
"No thanks. I like my face the way it is."
"Thought so."
"We aren't even her friends anymore." Jason stated solemnly. "I can't even believe she said that."
"We blew it, didn't we? Just because of our selfishness and wanting to protect her we…"
"Lost one of the best friends in the world?"
"Shannon? What are you doing here?" Sharpay then sneered at the petite raven haired beauty as she walked up to them. "Shouldn't you be with your cheerleader group?"
"Not today. Instead I was with Kelsi and your old friend making sure she was alright instead of pushing her to the brink of insanity."
"What do you mean?"
"I'd rather not get into it with you as knowing a blonde dunce like you, you wouldn't understand like I do. I don't know what kind of past she has hidden or whether or not she wants that history known, but trying to force it out of her probably did more damage than good. So now she and Kelsi have found a pretty good friend in me and I'm not letting that friendship go. Shannon one, Sharpay zero. Toodles." and like that she left looking like she had won one of the most important victories in a war.
"Ooh…okay, that's it! She just got on my last minute nerve!!"
"She's right though." Martha sighed. "We just lost a major battle and she came right in to pick up the pieces. The sad thing is there isn't a bad bone in her body. Just like Gabi she's the second sweetheart of the school. Even her boyfriend is same way."
"Bobby Jenkins? The football senior running back?"
"The one and only."
"Well, that makes it basketball versus football." said Zeke. "We're in enough rivalries as it is, now this? I'd hate to say this guys, but this just got ugly…"
Homeroom that morning was as tense as I had ever felt it ever being. Sharpay, Chad, Zeke, and Taylor were all staring me and Kelsi down with what felt like an evil death glare. I tried my best to ignore it but with them burning holes into the back of my head, it was pretty much impossible. I really didn't need the stress and with my 'possible' pregnancy, it just wasn't the kind of place I had wanted to be sitting in. I took a deep breath and looked towards Kelsi who just nodded and grinned at me. I grinned back and relaxed knowing that she was still on my side at least, though I'm sure she still sympathized with the others. But if she wanted to still hang out with them, that was alright with me. I was in no position to say she couldn't. Her life, her rules. But as long as we remained sisters, it was alright with me. Besides, I had to trust her. She was the only friend I had that knew of my marriage to Troy.
By lunchtime I had met up with Kelsi and Shannon outside on the bleachers by the track. Out there was the basketball, football, and cheerleading teams doing their daily practice. Shannon had decided to sit this practice out though and relax for once. Her boyfriend was one I had become somewhat familiar with and found out he was a pretty nice guy all around. He was there when I 'nailed' Stephen and was the first one to tell Shannon about it. She laughed since she knew how much of an ass he was anyway. But sure enough Stephen recovered enough to regain some of his status, but was still mostly avoided by by the girls in school. I guess his popularity will never recover after that one. "Thinking again Gabi?"
"Aren't I always Kels?" I giggled in response. "I'm not a straight 'A' student for nothing you know."
"Don't I know it. So Shannon, what made you decide for us to eat out here today?"
"Why not? It's warm, it's sunny, the breeze feels great, and there's plenty of eye candy to look at."
"Don't let Bobby hear you say that. He may get a tad jealous of you."
"He is a bit protective of me, but I guess that's why I care for him so much. I'm as strong as the next woman out there, but he's always there to keep my safe."
"Kind of weird to hear that out of a typical jock-cheerleader relationship."
"I know, isn't it?" she giggled. "We met back in the sixth grade in junior high. He was already in the middle school football league and I was your normal everyday girl next door and I guess I still am for that matter."
"You two hit it off right away?" I then asked out of curiosity.
"No, that we didn't. We became really good friends all throughout middle school and even though I don't know if he noticed it or not, but there was always some kind of spark there that I always felt but was always too afraid to act on the damn thing. But anyway, it was around the middle of freshman year before we finally hooked up and went out on a date. I was so damn nervous and scared that my throat just about closed up."
"First date jitters huh?"
"Jitters?! If those were jitters then I don't want to know what you call them!! But back to the story. It was around Christmas time and believe it or not, but it was actually snowing around here for a change and there we were just walking around the neighborhood after a nice day downtown just looking around with a tad bit of light shopping mixed in. We were just talking as always laughing, joking around, and even the light banter with the occasional mix of playfully hitting each other like we were brother and sister. But when I took a wrong step and almost slipped, he caught me in his arms and brought me back up. At that moment our faces were so close and my heart was beating so fast it was insane. My face was all of a sudden hot and flushed, my breathing began to race and my eyes I'm sure glossed over. The next moment though was what changed everything."
"The first kiss?"
"Oh yeah. It was like everything I had dreamed about in a first kiss from someone I cared about. Soft, sensual, blissful…it was just out of this world."
"Is that when he asked you to be his girlfriend?"
"Same night. Been inseperable ever since."
"Sounds nice. In fact, there he is waving at you."
"That lunkhead! HEY!! PAY ATTENTION TO THE…game…" she muttered after a football collided with his head. "Be right back girls. I have to go whack some sense into him."
"Go easy on him!!" I yelled as she left. "She's a nice girl. I wish all people could be like that."
"We're not always so lucky Gabs. You got backstabbed by our old group and now Shannon comes into our lives."
"You can still hang out with the others if you'd like to Kelsi. I'm not going to stop you."
"I know, but I wanted to enjoy the change of scenery anyway."
"But what about Ryan?"
"Shit! I totally forgot! He's going to kill me!"
"He won't if he loves you. Speak of the devil! RYAN!!!!"
"Girls! Kelsi, I've been looking all over for you!!"
"Sorry Ryan. Forgive me?"
"Always." he said after pulling her into a kiss. "Gabi, how is it out here?"
"Different. Really got a new perspective on things with the view."
"Oh yes, I'm sure the view of the jocks is pleasing."
"You love the cheerleaders and you know it." I giggled.
"Yeah, well, you know us men." and that's when Kelsi playfully whacked him across the chest. "Hey, just kidding!!!"
"Funny Ryan." she said smirking. "Why aren't you with the others?"
"They're inside fighting amongst one another and I really didn't want to be a part of it. So I decided to hunt you down instead."
"Sounds like there's a bounty on our heads."
"Sure is Gabi! Ten Chicago hot dogs each!!"
"Only ten?!"
"Sorry. Best they would offer me."
"Cheapasses…" I then muttered.
"Miss them yet?"
"Not if my life depends on it. Sorry if I feel that way, but I just do."
"It's alright. I won't hold a grudge against you."
"You're the best."
"I knew that."
"See you tomorrow!"
"Later!" Shannon yelled as she and Bobby took off in his Jeep.
"New friends babe?"
"Oh, hey sweetie. Yeah, you could say that."
"She's a nice girl. I've talked sport with Mr. Jenkins a few times and he seems to be well informed. My kind of guy."
"You going gay on me love?" I snickered. Troy just mocked hurt and faked fainting on his side of the truck in response. What a goof. "Okay, be that way. I'll just walk home."
"I think not Mrs. Bolton!"
"Troy!! SHH!! Keep that down, remember?!"
"Sorry! But anyway, we have a phone call to make when we get home."
"Oh, I totally forgot about that! I'm all excited now!!"
"I bet you are."
"This is Lovelace Women's Hospital, Patricia speaking."
"Hi, my name is Mrs. Gabriella Bolton and I'd like to make an appointment for a pregnancy test and possible ultrasound."
"Wonderful! Is this your first child ma'am?"
"If it comes out positive like we think it is, yes."
"Well congratulations if it is!! I have four of my own and wouldn't give them up for the world!"
"I bet." I said giggling over the phone. "We're as excited as could be right now."
"Good for you darling!! Okay, let's see here…I have an opening on…hmm…Thursday about…five thirty by the way it looks. Dr. Sonia Thomlinson will be your doctor. Is that alright?"
"Perfect. Five thirty it is. Thank you so much."
"Not a problem darling. Congratulations again and see you on Thursday."
"Alright. Thanks again." I said smiling as I hung up the phone. "All set sweetheart! Thursday at five thirty. Lovelace Women's Hospital."
"I know where that is. Perfect."
"So what should we do next?"
"We wait, unless you have something else in mind…" waggling his eyebrows at me, I quickly noted the attention he was seeking and since Kelsi wasn't with us today, I think a little love making was definitely what the doctor ordered…
By Wendseday I still hadn't talked to our old group. Kelsi was still kept in touch with them though and always had me up to date on the latest gossip and news about what was going on in my old world. It seemed like the whole mess that they had created left a major impact after just those two days. They were at each others throats, the basketball team was suddenly falling apart, and the dating scene between all of them…well…let's just say it became non-existant. Wasn't my problem though. It was brought on by themselves and I in no way had any intentions of doing anything about it. Selfish you say? Call me that if you'd like, but that's just how I see it.
Thursday came around and while sitting in homeroom class, a note got passed to me from Kelsi that Taylor had wrote. The reason I noticed that is because I recognized her hand writing right away. I didn't read it and instead threw it away right when the bell for the next class rang. I didn't bother looking at them as I left, but I'm sure the look was of one of pure shock and grief. And besides, I wasn't going to let this day get me down. Me and Troy had our appointment today and there was no reason to try to make myself upset. Kelsi knew of the appointment and still agreed to come along with us happily. Besides, I think the shocker of her becoming an aunt was starting to really excite her.
The only person I somewhat communicated with was Sharpay since I was still helping with the musical. I did eventually volunteer my time as a backstage assistant and helping compose music with Kelsi. She enjoyed spending time with me as I did her. Sharpay would only talk to me when it came to her practicing the lines and songs she needed to know for the play. Other than that, she didn't dare speak of anything between us. Even if she tried she knew I'd only either ignore her or blow up in her face. So knowing she didn't want either of those options, we kept it cordial and strictly on business purposes only. I was certain it was breaking her heart, but at that moment I couldn't have cared less. "Gabriella!!"
"What Sharpay? I'm busy here!"
"This skirt is too long! It doesn't fit my style!!"
"Sharpay, for the last time, it's called a poodle skirt. It's meant to be longer. Almost all dresses were back in that period."
"What a total lack of fashion sense. Oh well, I'll just have my own tailor custom make me a skirt."
"Do that and I'll make sure you're replaced, understood?"
"You really don't want to do that."
"Oh yes, I do. Now keep it period accurate or it's 'toodles' for you, got it?"
"Fine." she sneered walking away.
"What a brat…"
"Still at war with my sister?"
"Oh, hey Ryan. Yeah, you could say that. She's complaining about Sandy's dresses again. What we're using is time accurate for the year that the movie was based on."
"I'll talk to her."
"Thanks Ryan." I sighed. I went from the backstage to the front where Kelsi was jamming away on the piano while some of the backup dancers were trying out for their own place in the show. I stood off to the left of the piano smiling and nodding my head to the beat of the music. Kelsi looked up at me smiling herself before looking back towards the crowd of people. Some I noticed were a tad bit slower than the others. And with the timing we needed for a few of the scenes, it was either they move quicker or we pick other people. By the time free period was over, we had things narrowed down a bit character wise but more rehearsals and tryouts were going to be needed before final callbacks. What a headache. "We all done here?"
"Yeah. Let me get packed up and we'll meet Shannon for lunch."
"Sounds good Kels. Ryan!"
"Yeah!"
"Make sure the lights are off before you leave! We're off to lunch!"
"Alright! Meet you out there!"
"Okay! Ready to go sis?"
"Yep. Let's hit it. I'm starving."
"You aren't the only one."
"Or two."
"Kelsi! Shh!!!" I giggled as we left. "What am I going to do with you?!"
"Just be my sister, that's all."
"Girls!! Over here!"
"Hey Shannon! What's the special today?"
"Chopped steak. Warning, stay away from the carrots and go for the beans. The carrots got overcooked again."
"Thanks for the update. They got the baked potatos today?"
"Yep."
"Awesome! I'm dying for one with cheese, sour cream, and bacon!"
"Aww, now I want one! That sounds good!"
"Pay me back and I'll get you one."
"Deal Gabi."
"Cool! Be right back!"
"Hurry up! So Kelsi, how is the musical coming along?"
"Slow and torturous. We need some more backup dancers. The ones we have aren't exactly making the cut."
"Doesn't Ryan usually take charge of that part?"
"He does, but the dancers don't seem to fit."
"Can I try out?"
"If you'd like. You do have the dancing experience."
"If you can call cheerleading dancing."
"It still is. It's just a different form of art really when you take a closer look at it."
"Never thought of it that way."
"Back!" I said cheerfully. "Here Shannon, one baked potato, Gabriella style."
"Ooh! Looks delicious! By the way, Kelsi said you guys are still looking for backup dancers."
"That's true."
"Good because I'm signing up."
"What?! No way! That's awesome!"
"You're very welcome. Figured I'd get in at least a little extra credit before we all graduated."
"You and me both. Even Darbus is glad to at least have me around on the level I'm at now."
"I bet. Hey, you two busy after school? I'd love to hang out tonight if possible."
"I wish, but we both have prior plans. How about tomorrow night? At least then we don't have to worry about it being a school night."
"Perfect! What should we do?"
"The mall as always?" Kelsi then said giggling.
"Mall it is."
"Look at them." Taylor sighed. "They've never looked so happy."
"Yeah they have. When they used to hang out with us."
"I realize that Chad." she said resting her head on his shoulder. "She didn't even read the note I had passed over to her. It was just thrown in the trash without a second thought."
"What can we do?" Jason asked. "Just thinking about trying to talk to her may get us killed if not worse. How can someone so nice turn so cruel at the push of a button?"
"It's because we pushed that button Jason, or did you forget already?" Sharpay quickly noted looking up from her lunch. "She's even pushing my buttons regarding my costumes in the play! Why can't I have cute and sexy?! This is the new millenium people, not the old days!"
"It's called time period accuracy sis." Ryan chided her again. "Why can't you just be quiet about it and let it go?"
"And since when did you become so confident?"
"Ever since Gabriella came along."
"Traitor." she mumbled back. "Why aren't you over there with her anyway?"
"Because I still have a choice of who I want to hang out with, whether it's her or not."
"Well what about Kelsi?"
"Hey, she still hangs out with us too. But now is not the time to be arguing about that fact. Gabriella is happy and content at the moment, so just let her be until things hopefully blow over."
"Fine, but if they don't soon I'll blow up myself. I miss my shopping partner."
"You forgetting about Taylor and Martha?"
"Why would I do that?! The only problem is that they're not as fun."
"Nor as rich as you." Martha then sighed. "I'd hate to say this guys, but I think things are beginning to fall apart around us."
"Guys, come on! Let's go!" Jack yelled. It was soon after school and basketball practice was in full force, but it was still lagging bad. Three of the team members, namely Chad, Zeke, and Jason, were off the ball as some would say it and not coordinating well with the other. "Hold it! Just hold it guys!" he then yelled. "Timeout! Danforth! Cross! Baylor! What is your major malfunction tonight?!"
"Sorry sir." Chad replied wiping the sweat from his brow. "Just a lot of things on our mind at the moment."
"Well clear your mind and concentrate! We got demolished at our first game and creamed on the second and third! We got another game tomorrow night and with the way we're looking now, we might as well forfeit at right now. The rest of you, back to practice! You three, come with me into my office."
"Nervous babe?"
"Scared, nervous, excited, happy, exhilarated…"
"The list could go on and on." Troy laughed looking at me. "How about you Kelsi? You ready to find out if you'll actually be an aunt or not?"
"Totally!" she cheered happily. We were on our way to our apointment and had taken off at four thirty to make sure we were early just in case we were able to get in at an earlier time. I wasn't going to be too sure of it, but hey, why not take the chance to see if we could get in faster? At least then I'd know quicker if I was going to be a mother or not. That fact was easy to tell though as fidgety as I was getting. "Gabi, calm down sis! It's only an appointment!"
"Yeah, one that could make a major change in the way I live my life!"
"Our lives dear. Our lives." Troy then said.
"Sorry sweetie. Just anxious I guess."
"It's alright. I am too. Just knowing that you could possibly be carrying baby Bolton with you is kind of exciting."
"Baby Bolton?" I smirked. "Wow baby, I didn't know you could be so cute."
"If you didn't, you wouldn't have married me."
"I married you for more than your good looks sweetheart."
"Sure you did." he chuckled.
"Whatever. Just drive truck boy."
"YEEEHAAWWW!!!" he then yelled.
"Oh no, you did not just do that!!" I said laughing. Kelsi was too and for a moment even she was holding her ribs to keep them from bursting open from laughing so hard. "Something tells me you've been watching 'The Dukes of Hazzard' one too many times."
"Can't go wrong with an american classic."
"Just stay away from Boss Hogg and Rocoe P. Coltraine and we'll be fine."
"They have yet to catch this good old boy!"
"I've created a monster…" I groaned with a smile. But alas I just shook my head in defeat. There was no way I was going to change my husband. It was times like this where he would just get me laughing and smiling just to try to lift my spirits on a bad day, when we were having fun, or just when he wanted to be an all out goofball. The scary thing is, have you ever seen him on tape in only his boxers and wearing an Elvis wig trying to sing 'Jailhouse Rock'? I have. Believe me, you don't want to know. After his mom had showed me that little memory of him, I couldn't stop laughing for almost an hour. Took me almost two full days just to not laugh at him after that night. I don't think he ever forgave his mom for showing me that video either.
"We're here ladies. Ready love?" I sighed nervously, took one more deep breath, and said "Ready as I'll ever be."
"Good. Just relax, it'll be fine." He pulled into the parking lot and took the most open spot he could for obvious reasons. After we had hopped out and locked up, he took my hand in his with Kelsi walking beside me. Walking inside I could quickly feel the butterflies start to build up. I think Troy could sense it as he squeezed my hand gently, causing me to look up and smile at him before we reached the recpetionists desk. "Can I help you?"
"Yes. Me and my husband have an appointment with Doctor Thomlinson at five thirty."
"Okay. What name is it under?"
"Mrs. Gabriella Bolton."
"Thank you. Okay…let's see…alright, here it is. Just go to the elevator there, follow the directions up to the pre-natal unit let them know you're here."
"Okay. Thank you ma'am."
"You're welcome. Good luck."
"Thank you." I said smiling as we walked off. "Well, here we go."
"Just be happy babe. This is our future in our hands right now."
"And if it is, we'll cherish every moment of it together."
"Promise?"
"I promise."
Okay, now I was nervous. It was five fifteen and here I was fidgetting around trying to keep myself occupied. I think I had already skimmed through three issues of Home and Garden Magazine, two issues of Health, and four glasses of water from the bubbler next to the receptionists desk. Troy and Kelsi would just look at me, smile, and shake their heads smiling. This would only make me frown time after time knowing they were mocking me, but how could they be so calm?! This is our lives as a family for me and Troy! This was going to be one night that could change everything! But all I could do was sit back down in the waiting section between my friend and husband and sigh trying to relax. All he would do was either take my hand or rub my leg gently to calm me down. Both helped but I was still nervous as hell. "Mrs. Bolton?"
"That's us." I said shooting up.
"Hmm…nervous possibly expecting mother. I get these all the time." Sonia said smiling. "Hi, I'm Dr. Thomlinson and I'll be your primary doctor if you are indeed pregnant. Now before we begin, let me guess. This is your husband?"
"Yes. This is the love of my life, Troy Bolton."
"Mr. Bolton, nice to meet you.."
"You too ma'am." he said shaking her hand. "And this young lady here is Miss. Kelsi Nielson."
"Nice to meet you Kelsi. You a relative?"
"No ma'am." she replied. "Just a childhood friend."
"And does she have permission to be with you during this appointment?"
"Yes she does." I said.
"Well then, let's get started. Follow me to my office and we'll go from there."
"Okay."
"So…" Sonia then said in her office. "This is going to be your first child, correct?"
"If the tests are positive, yes."
"Excellent. Now, I just have to ask a few questions. Nothing major. Just things on a need to know basis so I can judge things better. First of all, do you now or have you ever taken any drugs in your life."
"No."
"Have you ever smoked before?"
"No. My mother made sure of that." I giggled.
"You've got a smart mom then. Next. Have you ever drank before?"
"I do on occasion, but it's only every once in a great while as I don't really have any other reason to."
"So mainly special occasions like maybe weddings, birthdays, that sort of thing?"
"Yes."
"Well, that should be all well and fine, but if possible we'd rather prefer you not drink at all. Is that alright?"
"Perfectly fine."
"Perfect. Are you currently sexually active?"
"Well…yeah…" I then said blushing. What? I wasn't expecting that sort of question.
"Okay then. In most cases that is perfectly fine as most women from what I've gathered do gain a little more sexual pleasure during pregnancy. We do not condone it unless there is a specific danger to the mother or fetus. Most times there is not but there is of course the occasion where there is. We'll try to determine that as early as possible just to make sure you're safe."
"Oh, okay."
"No need to be nervous. Just basic procedure. When was the last time you were active?"
"The night I called to make this appointment. That was either on Tuesday or Wendseday."
"No other times before you came tonight?"
"No ma'am."
"Very good then. Are you at all physically active? Like in any kind of sports, walking, jogging, that sort of thing?"
"The occasional walks, but that's about it."
"Okay. If possible, the walks would be a good idea to take more often. It would help you along strength wise, help the baby get into position as you progress further into your pregnancy, and make things easier for you in the long run."
"I can very easily do that."
"Good. Well, I think that's all I need here. We'll head into one of the examination rooms, do the tests, and if all turns out, we'll do an ultrasound last."
"Sounds like a plan." Troy stated smiling. "Let's get this show on the road."
"Glad you're excited. Just follow me and we'll get started."
"I'm so nervous Troy…"
"I know babe. But just go with the flow and you'll be fine."
"Alright."
"Okay, we're set to go." Sonia said walking into the examination room. "First things first. We'll do a standard pregnancy test and go from there. So here's your little cup. Just feel free to use the bathroom across the hall." I then took the cup nervously and went across the hall to do what I had to do. Good thing I did. All that water I drank was already beginning to run through me. I came back several minutes later after cleaning up and handed the little cup with the lid on it to Sonia.
"Alright, be right back, okay?"
"Sure." I replied setting myself onto the examination table. "Well, that was fun."
"And to think it was only step one." Troy snickered at me.
"Shut up." I chided back nudging his arm. He just wrapped me tight with his arm and let me snuggle against him as Kelsi sat smiling in the corner.
"So Gabi, how are your nerves now?" she then asked me out of anticipation.
"Do you have to ask Kels?"
"Yep."
"Ha ha." I laughed mockingly. "Very funny."
"You know it was."
"Whatever."
"I'm back everyone."
"Well?" I then asked. Okay, moment of truth. Were we going to be parents or was I just dreaming of all the throwing up, sore feet, and mood swings. Luckily the cravings haven't kicked in yet but I wasn't going to rule that out either. Though a deep fried pickle with ketchup and mustard suddenly sounded good.
"Well, the results are in and it says yes, so congratulations!!"
"YES!!! I'm so happy baby!!"
"So am I." Troy said smiling at me. "So what's next?"
"The ultrasound which will be kind of neat for you. We have the traditional one, or the new 3D one which is really neat. So shall we?"
"Yes!!" I cheered.
"Good. We'll go to another room for the sonogram first and then come back for the ultrasound."
"Well what are we waiting for?! Let's go!"
"Just follow me then."
"Okay, just lay down here and raise up your shirt."
"Alright." I responded laying down on the table. I then pulled up my shirt to just below my bra to be safe. I guess I did it right since she didn't say anything other than smiling of course.
"I'm going to apply some gel now and it's most likely going to be cold just to warn you." and she wasn't kidding! I nearly jumped off the bed it was so cold! Where did they get that stuff from?! Antartica?! "You still doing okay?"
"Yeah, but that was freezing!"
"Typical reaction." she laughed. "I get it all the time. We'll do a traditional ultrasound for now and see how far along you are. Ready?"
"Yes!" I said happily. "I am so ready for this!"
"Well then, let's begin." and with that she put the insturment on my stomach and began swirling it around until after a minute or so, she found what she was looking for. "Well here it…whoa, hold on there."
"What's wrong?!" I then asked freaking out. "Is there something wrong?!"
"No, not at all! Relax Mrs. Bolton. Look at the screen here." she then said turning the screen towards me. "See this?"
"Yeah, I do."
"That's just one of them."
"One…of them?"
"Yes. Here's number one…there's number two…and…" she continued on. "there is number three."
"Three? As in…TRIPLETS?!"
"You said it. Looks like they're all in their respective spot, so that's good. They're not growing together or in any unusual way. So all in all everything looks great."
"Wonderful!! How far along are we?"
"From the looks of things, pretty much at four weeks exactly. So another eight months you'll be a mother of three. Exciting, isn't it?"
"It's amazing! Three babies…what do you think Troy?"
"Yeah…it is…amazing. I'm just shocked, that's all."
"I'm sure you two have a lot to talk about now." Sonia said cleaning me up. "I'll schedule your next appointment for four weeks from now. So until then, take it easy, no strenuous activity, and try to stay as stress free as possible. With you being a first time mother, I'd rather you not have any complications if at all possible. Also, try to keep up with vitamins and iron supplements and keep your fluid levels up. Dehydration can be a problem with some pregnancies so I strongly urge it just to be safe."
"Got it. Thank you doctor."
"Anytime. I'll be right back with all the information you'll need."
"Okay." I sighed. "Troy, you alright?"
"Yeah…I'm still shocked, that's all. I can't believe it. Triplets. Three baby Boltons. Three more reasons to make our relationship stronger."
"And three more reasons why I love you sweetie." I whispered back in between kisses. "So Kelsi, what do you think?"
"I'm so excited!! I can't wait to spoil them!!"
"And so it begins." I giggled. It was then that I realized that we had just stepped into the biggest adventure of our lives. I still wondered though how our parents would take the news…
We arrived home shorty after eight after dropping Kelsi off at home and after a quick dinner out. I went into full mother mode and instead of ordering burgers and fries at a local McDonalds, I went with a grilled chicken sandwich, salad, and juice just for the vitamins. Not exactly what I was craving but it still tasted wonderful. After we got home we decided right away that we would find out the sexes of our babies as soon as we could so we could set up a proper nursery. The combinations could be either two girls, one boy, two boys, one girl, all girls, or all boys. Just that thought alone was dizzying enough but then when it came to having to pick out names, well, let's just say that I myself decided we'd wait until we knew for sure what we were having. I wasn't about to get my head spinning anymore than what it already was. But we knew for certain that three cribs, a decent sized dresser, and a changing table were definitely in order. I slipped on an almost floor length nightgown in a soft red color as Troy had on plaid boxers and a white wife beater. Talk about roughing it with him. Now even he matched our home's décor. "Very stylish babe." I giggled."
"I wear what works."
"I can tell." I replied slipping into bed and under our covers. "Still nervous?"
"Oh yeah. But just hearing the word triplets completely threw me for a loop. I imagined us having one at a time, but three at once?"
"Do multipules run in your family?"
"None that I know of. You?"
"Nope."
"It's just a coincidence then. I can't wait though. Three baby Boltons. Should be quite the adventure."
"One that I wouldn't dream of having with anyone else but you sweetheart. Night."
"Night dear." and with one more goodnight kiss, we snuggled close and fell asleep instantly with both of us dreaming happy dreams.
The next morning came around rather happily for both of us. After getting past the usual morning sickness, we made breakfast with Troy holding me around my waist while I cooked, got to school rather early which was unusual for us, and even the musical tryouts went rather uneventful. Shannon as promised showed up to try out as a backup dancer and quickly made it in. She was almost flawless and Ryan, who winked at me in approval of her appearance, was highly impressed. She immediately got a callback of which she was thrilled about. If she got approved after that, she was going to be a shoe-in.
The news of my now confirmed pregnancy still raced through my head most of the morning and it showed. I was smiling, giggling, laughing, and just getting along great with everyone. Didn't mean I was talking to the others though as of yet.
"Alright everyone, good job. Go shower up and get to your next class." Troy sighed tiredly. "And don't be late!"
"Good job son."
"Thanks dad. I try. Didn't think that a group of teenagers could be so brutal with each other in dodge ball though. I can almost guarantee some of them going home with bruises on them."
"It's a fun game for them. It's one of the ways they let out their frustrations on each other without getting suspended."
"Ah, good point. I walked away with bruises myself several times after playing that game."
"Bruises? You came home with a black eye once!"
"Hey, not my fault that I doubted Tina's throwing arm."
"She never let you live it down either."
"Shut up dad. Don't you have some work to do?"
"That I do. See you after school?"
"Always."
"See you then." Jack said walking away. After he left Troy heard the familiar clicking of heels and looked up to see a fully refreshed Sharpay walking towards him. She had been hitting on him since day one after school started and it annoyed him to no end. But alas, there she was once again trying to look as flashy as ever. "Miss. Evans, can I help you?"
"Only if you're asking me for a date."
"And only if you're still dreaming. Seriously Miss. Evans, don't you have anything better to do with your time?"
"No. Besides, why would I want to be anywhere else when there's this hunk of a teacher right here in front of me?"
"Okay, that's it. Time to set some guidelines."
"Guidelines?" She asked.
"Yes as you obviously have listening issues. One, I am married as you seem to keep forgetting. Thus which is why I wear this ring on my left hand. That means I'm taken. Two. It is inappropriate for someone like you to be hitting on a staff member of this school. Thus you will stop or there will be consequences. Three. I will not nor will I ever have any interests in someone like you. Having that party with your friends was fine and all, but that's all that will happen. I don't want to sound rude, but you are gawdy, lazy in class, stuck up, spoiled, and a total brat. Any guy who is able to put up with that will get an award from me. Now, unless you have something else to say, I suggest you get to your next class, understand?"
"Fine, but don't think this is over Troy. I will have you."
"Oh, It's over, trust me." he laughed. "Bye now." and like a woman on a tirade, Sharpay huffed off and stomped her way out of the gym. Troy watched her laughing and smiling until she was finally out the door and out of sight of which then he just bowed and shook his head in disbelief. "Unbelieveable."
"She's always been that way. Sorry Mr. Bolton."
"Oh, Mr. Evans. It's quite alright. I'm used to her type. You wouldn't believe the girls I met and talked with through college. They were just as bad if not worse."
"Ew. Makes me not want to go now."
"Trust me, stay away from girls like that and you'll be fine."
"I'll do that. Besides, if I didn't Kelsi would kill me."
"I bet she would." Troy chuckled. "Listen, I know you always have a hard time trying to live in your sister's shadow, but always be yourself and try to be the better person. Do that and maybe someday she'll see the light as well."
"I'll do that."
"Good. Now get to class. I don't need you to be late."
"Thanks!"
"No problem!" Troy yelled to him as Ryan ran out. "Oy, what a day."
"Who does he think he is?! No one does that to an Evans! No one!"
"What's she yelling about this time?" Chad asked Ryan at lunch.
"Apparently…" Ryan whispered as not to get caught. "Mr. Bolton, aka 'Troy', laid into my sister, turned her down and insulted her big time all in one shot."
"That's my man!!" Chad cheered.
"What was that?!" Sharpay sneered.
"Oh nothing. So what's up?"
"That dumb gym teacher, that's what!! Who does he think he is turning down someone as popular as me?! He should be happy that I even grace him with my presence!!"
"You should realize that he's a married man and just get over it." Taylor stated. "I mean, come on. It would take a man with an iron constitution to put up with you."
"Shut up! I don't need insults coming from you!"
"It's not an insult. Just stating the facts as I see them."
"Whatever. How can a good looking guy like him just stick to one woman for the rest of his life? How is it possible?"
"Easy. He's in it for the commitment, the love, and possibly for the family if he wanted one. So I see nothing wrong with it."
"Shit. Well, that just ruined my day. Any boy around here would want me, but to be turned down like that is just…insulting. No one has done that before."
"Probably because they're all scared of you." Martha giggled. "But you are one of the most sought after girls here besides Gabriella."
"Gabriella." Sharpay then sighed. "All the boys love her, but even she doesn't want anything to do with them thanks to her mystery 'boyfriend'."
"Speaking of Gabi, has anyone noticed how different she's looked lately?"
"What do you mean?" Taylor asked. "She looks the same to me as she does everyday."
"No, there's something different there. Not sure what it is, but she seems…"
"Happier?"
"You could say that, yes. There's a certain glow to her that I've never seen before."
"Well it could be that she's just over what happened between all of us. The thing is, I don't think we are yet. There she is all happy and content and here we are miserable, constantly bickering between each other, and mostly unhappy."
"It's like I said before." Martha sighed. "We're falling apart and she doesn't even know it yet."
"Okay, who's up for the mall?!"
"I'm in!" I giggled hopping into Shannon's Jeep. She had a cute little red Jeep Wrangler that I would have loved to get my hands on. It was almost the perfect little dream car for the american teenager. Not too big, not too small, but more than enough to show around and have fun with. "You still in Kelsi?"
"Sure! Let's get moving. Just don't let me get too broke or mom will kill me again."
"We'll try not too." Shannon laughed. "Let's roll ladies!"
"That?! She picks that over my boxster?! I'm insulted!!"
"Down Shar." Ryan sighed. "Not all of us can be as extravagant as you are."
"Shut up Ryan. I don't need to hear it from you! I mean, come on! It's a Jeep! What does she plan on doing, going off road with it on the way home?!"
"It's a possibility."
"Oh shut it! Let's go home so I can sulk and whine."
"Don't you do that all the time?"
"Whatever."
"What's first ladies?" Shannon asked as we drove along. It was a beautiful afternoon and the still warm summertime breezes were just enough to calm and relax my still jumbled and excited nerves. I felt that little spark of which I was guessing were my maternal instincts kick in and instantly put my hand to my stomach. Right then is when it growled too. "Let me guess…food?"
"Yeah, I am a bit hungry." I giggled. But these days, wasn't I hungry all the time?
"Me too. I could really go for a giant slice of pizza at the mall. How about you?"
"Hmm…not sure. I'm trying to stay away from the fast food and eat just a tad bit healthier these days. It's good for the body, you know?"
"Understandable. Nothing wrong with taking care of yourself. What are you up to Kels?"
"I'll do the pizza thing with you. I'm dying for a hawaiin."
"Ooh! I haven't had that in ages! Hawaiin it is."
"I'll steal a slice or two of that." I then giggled. "Hawaiin can't be all that bad for you."
"Just get a nice salad on the side and it'll balance out Gabi."
"I'll do that. Besides, I think some new dresses are in order." I said winking at Kelsi. She nodded right away in understanding knowing what I was talking about.
"I need some shirts myself and some new jeans wouldn't be bad either. I'm not much of a skirts or dress girl if you know what I mean."
"You still like the conservatively sexy yet still cute look of the girl next door, right?"
"My point exactly! My mom thinks there's something wrong with me not wanting to wear dresses or skirts, but it's just how I am."
"I see nothing wrong with that. I wear a little bit of everything."
"I've noticed that. It's never the same with you."
"What can I say, I'm a trendsetter."
"I wouldn't go as far as to say that Gabi. Hey Kelsi, you haven't said much. You alright?"
"Sorry. I'm more of the quiet type. Always have been for some reason."
"I can you're kind of shy too. That's alright though. I used to be the same way when I was a kid."
"Well at least we can relate on that point then."
"Exactly! See, we have more in common than what we think. That's why I always watched over you guys in the background."
"What were you doing, stalking us?" I then giggled.
"Oh yeah, totally! I would watch you sleep sometimes in the shadows, keep you safe during wild times at school, and just be all over at once!"
"Wow! We've got a pro here!" I laughed.
"Yep. Full ninja all the way baby!" She said smiling. "Stealth at it's best!"
"Don't let your boyfriend know that. You'd probably scare him away." Kelsi laughed. "I know it'd scare Ryan away."
"I won't then just to be on the safe side."
"Girls, I have to stop at one other store. Is there anything you'd like to check out?"
"I'll just browse around if you don't mind." I said taking the last bite out of my salad. "I have a store or two I'd like to check out before we leave."
"Sure, no problem. Want to come with me Kels or Gabi?"
"I'll come along with you Shannon if you don't mind."
"Not at all."
It wasn't that I wanted to be alone, but I think Shannon and Kelsi did deserve a bit of time alone as Kelsi didn't really talk much around those she wasn't too familiar with. She's always had a hard time with that issue but with a little help and understanding, would open right up like a book and become your friend for life. The main reason for that was because of course what happened to us in the past. It doesn't help either with Sharpay's constant badgering, but she worked around it with a smile and just continued on with her life as she always did.
I myself was kind of glad I had split off as I had my own plans. There was a small baby supply store located in the mall and we had passed it a couple of times with my shopping itch just wanting to go in there and buy everything out. I knew I easily could with the money Troy had stashed away from his settlement, but I always thought better of it now just for the reason of me wanting my husband to keep his sanity. Plus if Troy knew I was trying to clean out his account it would be my head on the line as well. But I knew he would love me afterwards anyway so it didn't really matter. But I remained conservative and looked around anyway just to see what they carried. "Can I help you miss?"
"Oh, sorry. I was just browsing around."
"Something in particular that you're looking for?"
"Not sure. I'm a soon to be first time mother, so I'm not too particularly sure of what I need yet."
"Oh! Congratulations! First child?"
"First three. Me and my husband are expecting triplets."
"Wonderful! You two must feel very lucky for that."
"We're surprised by it, but yes, extremely happy otherwise."
"Good for you. What all do you need?"
"Everything." I giggled. "But we don't want to get too far ahead of ourselves until we know the sexes first."
"Good idea. Don't need to be buying the things you don't need unless you have to."
"Exactly. We already figured that a dresser, changing table, cribs, and other odds and ends like toys, bottles, pacifiers, diapers, those sort of things."
"A good way to start. When are you planning on getting those things?"
"Not sure. Have to talk to the husband first." I giggled. "It's kind of overwhelming right now what's going on."
"We run into that sort of thing all the time. We do offer parenting counseling and classes through one of the local hospitals."
"You do?"
"Of course. It's kind of a part of what we do for first time mothers. Here's my card. If you have any other questions or need anything, feel free to give us a call and we'll be glad to help you."
"Thank you." I said smiling. "That means a lot."
"Not a problem. Have a good night now."
"You too."
We left the mall around seven tired and dead on our feet. But we had a good time all around so it was worth it in the end. I did notice the other girls a couple of times also, but completely hid from their view so they wouldn't notice me. They weren't smiling much when I saw them and it seemed like they were trying to force themselves to have a good time. But my heart still stung when I saw them, so talking to them wasn't an option. Just thinking about them alone was enough to sting it, so I wasn't ready just yet to talk to them.
After I arrived home, I saw a note on the hallway table from Troy saying that he'd be out for a bit with his parents at an awards dinner for Lucille's job. She was a nurse at one of the other local hospitals and had been at it for years now. I think it was some sort of nurse of the year program or something along those lines. Oh well, didn't matter. But if she did happen to win something, I was going to be ecstatic. She really deserved it after all the years of service she had given her life up for.
I grabbed a small snack of another small salad, some chicken noodle soup, and a glass of milk before settling into the living room on the floor in behind the coffee table to relax. Popping on the TV I went directly to food network since some of my favorite shows were on there before moving on to other things like the news channels and Lifetime. I didn't know what time to expect Troy to be home and I didn't really worry too much as he never stayed out too late anyways. Besides, there's nothing wrong with a little freetime to myself.
"Troy, you alright?"
"Oh yeah, sorry dad. Just haven't heard from Gabi yet so I'm a bit worried that's all."
"She's practically an adult son. She knows how to take care of herself I'm sure."
"Yeah, I know."
"Well alright then. Where's your mother?"
"Probably wandering around here somewhere talking with her colleagues as always since they're so close knit to each other."
"True. You should hear about some of the things they get up to when they're together."
"I don't want to know dad."
"Good point."
By nine I had comfortably wrapped a blanket around myself and settled in stretched out on the sofa watching 'Hope Floats' on DVD. It was almost earily quiet around the house and usually was in his neighborhood which is why I loved it. Of course my neighborhood was quiet too so I was pretty much used to it. The sun had yet to fully set so there was still small shades of orange, yellow, and red on the mountain horizon that surrounded. Sunsets like those always calmed me down after a long day plus I had taken quite a few pictures of them since I had moved here to Albuquerque so they made for really nice wallpapers on my computer at home. But I planned on soon making those wallpapers pictures of our kids after they come into our world. Thinking about that relaxed me even more until I heard my cell phone go off . Looking at it I immediately answered it as it was my mom. "Momma!"
"Hi mi hija. Sorry I haven't called sweetheart. I've been rather busy with this case."
"It's alright mom. I understand. How is it up there?"
"Tiring. This poor girl's grandmother just won't give up sadly. I'm doing everything I can though to help the girl and her parents out, so that's all that matters to me."
"You're doing the right thing mom. I'm proud of you."
"As I am you too sweetie. How have things been the last four weeks?"
"Mom, you have no idea…" and so I went on telling her of my life's events minus my pregnancy of course since I wanted to keep it hidden as long as possible for me and Troy's sake. When she heard of my panic attack after what the others did to me, I could have swore she hit the roof and was ready to commit bloody murder on them. But she calmed down when I told her of how well Kelsi and Troy had been taking care of me since the incident.
"Oh sweetheart, I'm so sorry I wasn't there to take care of you. I'm glad you're alright though. Have you tried talking to them at all?"
"No I haven't mom. My heart stings too much to even look at them right now."
"Well you have to sometime dear. I'm sure they're all hurting right now themselves and would love to have you as their friend again. Just promise me you'll think about it, okay?"
"I promise mom." I replied back smiling. I could sense she knew I was when she replied back saying "I'm glad to hear you say that sweetie. But I've got to go now. I have another long day ahead of me and need my sleep in order to keep up with this whack job. I'll call again as soon as I can, okay?"
"Okay momma. Love you."
"Love you too sweetheart. Bye."
"Bye mom."
"Baby, I'm home!"
"In here Troy!"
"Well, aren't we the comfortable one." he chuckled walking into the living room. "Must be nice."
"You can join me if you'd like honey. There's more than enough room."
"Let me get out of this suit first and then I'll think about it."
"Better or else!" I yelled as he scooted up towards our room.
"Like I'm scared of you Mrs. Bolton!"
"You should be with these raging hormones of mine!"
"You're right, I should worry!" he yelled back laughing.
"As if!" I laughed back. "You know I wouldn't hurt you anyway. I love you too much."
"That you do." he said coming out of our bedroom. "You have anything to eat yet?"
"Yeah. I had some soup and salad earlier so I'm good for now."
"You been feeling okay?"
"Nothing out of the usual babe. Normal tiredness, sore feet, no mood swings at the moment thank goodness, and my appetite has been increasing lately as well."
"Sounds like I should stock up then just in case."
"Haha Troy."
"Eh, I try."
"Whatever. Just come cuddle with me. I miss you."
"Missed you too babe and our baby Boltons."
"Them too." I sighed as he cuddled up in behind me. "I love you."
"Love you too babe."
We woke up the next morning still wrapped up tight in our blanket with his arms wrapped gently around my midsection. I giggled at his now pretty roughed up hair as we didn't sleep like this all that much if at all. Even I myself was a bit more sore and stiff than usual. Naps on the sofa were fine, but I don't think I'll sleep for a full night on there again unless I'm either sick or extremely tired.
I made my way out of his arms carefully so I didn't wake him and went straight to the bathroom as it felt like my bladder was about to explode from the extreme pressure. "Sure, good way to say good morning to your mother, isn't it?" I giggled holding my stomach. "Just send her straight to the bathroom like you haven't used it all day."
"You okay in there sweetheart?" Troy asked through the door.
"Yes honey. Our kids decided to put all they could into mommy's bladder this morning."
"That's my kids for you." he laughed.
"If this is your fault I'll kill you later for it!" I laughed hearing him walk away. "Don't listen to daddy kids. He'll be a bad influence on you."
"I heard that!"
"Good!"
Taylor's POV
Last night after yet another bickering and argument session with Sharpay and Martha, I think I finally figured out that enough was enough. We had gone almost an entire week apart and things were already miserable. Chad and Sharpay were now insulting each other on a daily basis and it was really starting to get ugly, Chad has almost completely ignored me other than at lunch and before school when we spoke, Ryan and Kelsi though even still being our friends only hung out with us half the time that they used to and Martha and Jason, well, let's just say Martha has been totally in touch with the situation while her boyfriend, well, isn't completely with us as always. Plus Martha is the only one who has been able to keep us together, or at least somewhat together when we aren't fighting. I for one have never felt so depressed in my life. So as I sit here in east side park just taking in the air and the occasional cheering and laughing of kids, I begin to wonder if what we did to Gabriella was really worth the effort and pain in my heart. The straw that broke the camel's back was the one day that she threw out my last note to her without even looking at it. Though nobody noticed it, I was heartbroken. I went home that afternoon and raced to my room before landing on my bed and crying for about an hour into my pillow. I didn't eat dinner that night and instead just sat on my comuter looking through the pictures of me and Gabriella through the years we grew up together. The trips to South Dakota and the Badlands, New York, Florida, even the Wisconsin dairylands and northern forests. Though I thought Wisconsin was a weird choice for a vacation, the water park they have in Wisconsin Dells was the largest I had ever been to and if the chance came around I would definitely go again. Then it was the summer before last where we loaded up a huge twelve passenger van and all of us including Gabriella's mom and my parents who switched off driving took us on a summer long road trip around the U.S just for the fun of it. Good times indeed.
But now all that has changed. The happiness turned to sadness. The smiles turned into frowns and the laughing turned into sad tears of remorse. It didn't help either when my parents, or should I say all of our parents, found out why we got detention that one day. We all ended up with two week groundings with no freedom, though me and Sharpay were able to sneak away for a couple of trips to the mall without getting caught. Sure it was fun just for the risk of it plus the pure adventure, but it still wasn't much fun without Gabriella around. She always made things fun with her smiles, quick banter, funny retorts, and common sense of which she used to keep mainly Sharpay in line as well as Jason and Chad. But those lines blurred or pretty much disappeared after that day.
But to our dismay and blessing at the same time, Shannon Asmundson stepped in and helped pick up the pieces of the mess we had created. We had no qualms about the senior cheerleader as she had the same reputation as Gabriella but just wasn't as popular for some reason. She preferred to stay in the quiet and not draw attention to herself as the other cheerleaders liked to constantly do. But she was still a sweet girl, an average student who held her own quite well, and was always there to help those in need. The only rival she had was in Sharpay as they had held bad blood against each other since the beginning of middle school. Though Shannon and Gabriella are on the same level on the social status concerning community wise, Sharpay always held Shannon to a lower level and let it be known. But the major blow of taking Gabriella's side against Sharpay and letting it be known straight to her face was the day that Sharpay went into major depression. I should know. She's maxed out four credit cards already before her parents had to cut her off. Thank god for being rich.
Looking now at the town before me, I begin to realize that all that I had done was destroy what I had cherished most. It was also at this time that I knew I had to make amends somehow. I knew Gabriella still didn't want to talk to me, but I had to do something to make things right again. I can't live with myself knowing I broke a friends heart over something she didn't want to tell us. Us wanting to force something out of her that we shouldn't was definitely the wrong move. Not only that, it was one that I was going to have live with for the rest of my life. Not exactly a good thing if you ask me. "Taylor?"
"Kelsi? What are you doing out here?"
"Just walking Reno here."
"Aww…hi Reno! Haven't seen you in a while bud!!" I smiled petting the one year old German Shepard. "How is he?"
"Mischevious as ever, but we love him."
"So do I. He was such a cute puppy. Why did he grow up so fast?"
"Wish I knew. So what brings you here Taylor?"
"Just thinking to myself about the whole mess we created."
"Wishing you could go back in time and change it, don't you?"
"More than ever. I want to talk to her about it but I'm afraid to."
"Listen, how about I talk to her for you and see if she'll agree?"
"Could you? That'd be great."
"Sure. Watch Reno so I can call her?"
"Okay."
"TROY!!! Quit tickling me!!" I squealed. I had thrown a joke at Troy and he had eventually chased me down into our room before tackling me onto our bed where we commenced ourselves into a wrestling match where he finally got the advantage and began tickling my sides causing me to laugh uncontrollably. "Think of the babies!!"
"Your fault." he smirked kissing me.
"As if." I giggled. "Shit, the phone Troy."
"I've got it." he sighed. "Bolton residence, Troy speaking."
"Troy, it's Kelsi."
"Kelsi, good morning. How can I help you?"
"Is Gabi available?"
"Sure, here she is. It's for you babe."
"Thanks." I giggled pushing him off the bed.
"Hey! No fair!"
"All is fair in love and war baby." I giggled again spanking his butt.
"I'll be back for you later."
"Whatever." I smirked. "Gabi here."
"Having fun are we?"
"Always. What's up sis?"
"Umm…I know it's not what you want to do, but I just ran into Taylor here at the park and she…well…"
"Wants to talk to me?"
"Yeah, you could say so. She's watching Reno at the moment but I told her I'd ask you since she's afraid to."
"She has a right to be." I said laying back onto our pillows. "She deserves to be afraid after what they did."
"I know sis, but she's really upset. I can tell just by looking at her."
"East side park, right?"
"Yeah."
"Tell her to wait there. I'll be there soon."
"Really?"
"Yeah, but you stay as well. I may need a referee."
"No problem. And Gabi?"
"Yeah?"
"Love you."
"Love you too sis. Be there shortly."
"Okay. Bye."
"See you." I sighed hanging up. "Troy, I'm going to the park!"
"Need me to come with you?"
"No. There's something I need to do alone. I'll be back soon, I promise."
"Alright. Just be careful."
"I will."
I made it to the park in around fifteen minutes and had forgotten to ask Kelsi where she and Taylor were sitting at. But when I heard the unmistakable young barks of Kelsi's dog, I knew instantly where to go. Up to the top of the small hill of the park under the old oak tree which was around for god knows how long considering how large it is. Walking up there, there they sat talking nicely as Reno barked happily each time Kelsi or Taylor would throw his tennis ball. Nervously I walked up to them until Reno recognized me and ran up to me barking wildly. "Down boy. I'm happy to see you too." I laughed petting him.
"Gabriella…"
"Taylor."
"How…are you?"
"Fine and you?"
"You probably already know the answer to that."
"Not sure. Enlighten me."
"Gabriella, I didn't ask for you to come over here just so we could fight. I just want to talk and see what it will take to get my best friend back."
"Not sure myself after the stunt you guys pulled. You guys broke more than my heart Taylor. My confidence in all of you was lost, my mind was shattered, and everything I thought I knew about you guys went straight down the drain. I don't even know you guys anymore."
"You don't?"
"No, I don't." I said sitting down next to Kelsi. "After that day, I completely erased the old image of you guys and replaced it with the one I know now. It's not one that I like but it's my reality now."
"Oh sweetie, I am so sorry. I didn't mean to do that. Well, we didn't, but the point is right now is that I want my friend back. I don't care what it'll take, but I want to be able to have the confidence I had in myself back to where it was when there was me and you."
"Had to refer to that song, didn't you?" I replied letting a smile slip out.
"Sorry, I know, bad reference. But that's how it is Gabriella. I'm miserable as is everyone else."
"I can't say I'm happy to hear you say that, but what makes you think I'll just forgive you right away and just forget it ever happened?"
"I'm not asking for that nor do I even want to ask for that. More than anything I just want to earn the trust back that we had."
"That's still asking for a lot right now Taylor."
"I know…but…it's what I want to do. I miss you."
"I miss you guys too, I really do. It hurts having to ignore you guys everyday, but I had no choice as all of you forced that decision onto me. It was the only thing I could do in order to recover like I have."
"I owe Shannon a major thanks for that. She's been the angel while we've been the devils."
"Yes she has. She was right there for me right after it happened and I couldn't have asked for anyone better than her to be able to pick up the pieces like she has. I know she has her own issues to deal with family wise but what she's done for me is exactly what I've needed."
"I'm happy to hear that to tell you the truth. I've watched what she's done for you and it's nothing short of a miracle to see how fast I've seen you go back to the old you."
"It took a bit, but yes, I am actually really happy right now with the way things have turned out. I've had a couple of other ups and downs along the way, but one major thing overall has changed the way I've lived my life and now, I'm doing it for the better. It's not like I want to, but more like I have to. In the major sense of things, I'm glad I have to."
"Well I won't ask what that thing is or what it was. My days of trying to pry into things you want left unsaid are done."
"Promise?"
"Heart and soul honey. If it's for you, I'll do anything to have my friend back."
"Well, since you put it that way…"
"Friends?"
"Friends!" I squealed as we hugged each other. It was then that another moment in my life had once again changed for the better. Whether or not it was going to work out in the long run had to now be seen. My trust in her will probably take ages to regain, but something in my heart tells that in that time, our level of trust might go up just a few more notches.
"Baby, I'm home!!"
"How'd things go?" He asked me as I hung up my jacket.
"I got one of my friends back. But she knows it'll be a long time before I fully trust her again."
"Who?"
"Taylor."
"Good to hear hon. I'm glad things worked out for you."
"So am I. I'm hungry babe. Can you make me a snack?"
"How do a couple of my famous pb&J sandwiches sound?"
"They sound like heaven."
"Coming right up my dear." he then replied bowing to me. He then turned sharply and walked towards the kitchen like he was a high class butler. I swear he surprises me all the time with his antics. But if it gets me to smile, it was worth it to him. Though he may drive me nuts on some occasions, there's nothing I would give up to keep him in my life. I knew he felt the same way about me as well. Besides, would you give up on your future family? I know I wouldn't.
A/N: Whew, another long chapter complete. I want to thank you all for the reviews, for those who have added this story to their favorites list, to their story/author alerts list, or a combination of all of all of the above. It's because of you that I decided to keep this story rocking on. So read, review, enjoy, and don't be afraid to let me know what you want to see next. So until next time god bless, take care, and I'll be seeing you.
Sincerely,
Ltscw
