In Love With A Boxer

by Paigey08

Gabriella smiled as she watched her brother and Troy sparring in the gym, Troy bolton was her secret crush but also her big brothers best friend, she sighed wishing things were different! With Heartbreak & Confessions will Troyella come together? R&am

35. Chapter 35

Disclaimer: I own nothing from the HSM original movie!

A/N: Okay before you read I would just like to warn you that there may be some spelling and grammar mistakes in his chapter as my spell checker is currently broken... I am planning on fixing this by the next update so this should be the only chapter with mistakes:/ I apologise now and ask you not to give me a hard time about it and just focus on the chapter and what it is about:) Okay... I will shut up now:) Hope you all enjoy:)

Chapter 35 - Going Strong

It had been around a month since Gabriella had the pregnancy scare and she was starting to see that it was a good thing she wasn't pregnant. After she had thought it through properly she realised that she was being silly wanting a child at such a young age, she wasn't ready for a baby and neither was Troy.

It was almost Christmas again which meant it was almost the time that Gabriella had been waiting for since she and Troy begun dating. It was almost her 18th birthday. She was so excited to actually turn 18 but she was also kind of down as Troy said he couldn't make it back for her birthday. Apparently college has said they aren't allowed to finish until the week before Christmas. She was a little upset they couldn't celebrate her day together but he had promised they would do something special, just the two of them, when he did return home.

As well as being happy though that she was 18 this time of the year also brought back hurt and pain. On the 19th of December, 5 days after her birthday and 6 days before Christmas, it will be exactly one year since she buried her mother. She sighed as she sat on her bed and thought about her. She had always had a funny relationship with her mom. They fought and argued all the time but that was because they were so alike. No matter how much they argued though they always knew they loved each other. That is one thing that Gabriella never doubted. She knew that Maria loved her and that she died knowing Gabriella felt the same way.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of her cell phone ringing. She smiled when she saw who it was and answered the call. (Gabriella/Troy)

"Hey" she smiled.

"Hey you... You ok?" He asked.

"Yep... Just chilling out and thinking about stuff... You alright babe?" She asked.

"I'm alright love... What you thinking about?" he wondered.

"My birthday... You... And how it is almost a year since we said goodbye to mom" she sighed.

"Awww baby" he said sympathetically. "I am going to try and get back for that date... I promise" he told her.

"Don't worry babe... College is more important... Just get all your work done and I will be here waiting for you" she smiled.

"You're more important babe..." he stated.

"You know what I mean babe... Just don't lose focus ok? You have done so well so far and I don't want you to drop your grades because you're rushing for me... I will still be here" she said softly.

"I know baby... I just hate that I can't be there for your birthday... The day we have been waiting for for two years almost..." he sighed.

"Jeez 2 years... It doesn't feel like we have been dating that long" she laughed.

"2 years in a few months" he stated.

"I know... It has gone so fast" she said.

"It has... But its been the best two years of my life baby" he said sweetly and she smiled.

"Awww... Me too baby... I love you" she gushed.

"I love you too princess" she could picture his smile.

"Well I gotta go... The girls are coming round for a relaxing girls day" she told him.

"Ok babe... I'll speak to you later... Can I call you?" She smiled.

"Of course you can... I'll text you" she said.

"Alright baby girl... Say hi to everyone from me and have fun" she nodded.

"I will do babe... Miss you" she said softly.

"Miss you too beautiful... Love you loads" he said softly.

"Love you too Wildcat" she murmured before they hung up.

---

Gabriella was crying with laughter some time later. Sharpay, Taylor and Kelsi where at the house and they were all hanging out in her bedroom. At the current moment they were all laughing at Sharpayand her story of the last argument she had had with Brooke.

"I bet she was fuming" Taylor said through her laughter.

"Totally... But it was like my house and she was being dis-respectful" Sharpay justified her actions.

"Totally" Gabriella giggled.

"Anyway... Lets discuss this ones 18th birthday..." She said and Taylor and Kelsi nodded in agreement.

"I don't want to do anything" Gabriella shrugged.

"What? It is your 18th!" The other three exclaimed.

"I just don't feel like doing anything... Troy won't be here and I want to celebrate with him" she sighed.

"Babe... If you be smart you could have like two birthdays..." Taylor told her.

"What?" She laughed.

"You could have a celebration with us..." she started.

"And then a sexy one with Bolton when he gets back" Sharpay announced.

"Sharpay!" Gabriella gasped as they all laughed.

"You know that is the only kind of celebrating you wanna do with him..." Sharpay said simply and Gabriella blushed.

"Awww she is blushing... I think you got it spot on Shar" Kelsi giggled.

"Oh my god" Gabriella mumbled in embarrasment.

"Sorry hun... Guys stop it" Taylor laughed.

"Ok, Ok... but seriously Gabs... You have to do something for your birthday..." Sharpay told her.

"Like what?" She sighed.

"I don't know... Whatever you want... Go our for a meal... The movies... A sleepover I don't know... Just something" she said.

"Hmmm..." Gabriella thought. "How about a movie with like the guys as well and you three can all come back here after and we can have a girls night... Sleepover and snacks and a good gossip?" She suggested.

"Sounds good..." Kelsi nodded.

"I'm in..." Taylor smiled.

"Me too..." Sharpay said.

"Ok... So it's sorted... You girls will have to fill in your boyfriends... I'll tell Chad and Kyle" she smiled.

"Ok..." Taylor nodded.

"What do you wanna do now?" Kelsi asked.

"How about we watch a movie?" Sharpay suggested.

"Ok... Cool... What movie?" Gabriella asked.

"Ooo... Let's have a Twilight marathon!" Sharpay clapped.

"Ok... I'll go get some snacks" Gabriella giggled.

"I'll get Twilight set up in the DVD player" Kelsi said.

"I'll come with you hun" Taylor followed Gabriella.

The two went into the kitchen and Gabriella went to the cupboard to get some popcorn. She put the bag in the microwave and when it was popping away she got some drinks out of the fridge.

"How are you and Troy now babe?" Taylor asked as she got some chips from the cupboard.

"We are ok... Talking more... I just don't know what it will be like when he is home... Like will it be awkward?" She asked her friend.

"I don't know babe... If you're talking like you always have and still love each other then why would it be awkward?" She asked.

"I don't know... I guess because we haven't actually seen each other since the scare... And what if he doesn't want to be with me incase it happens again?" She asked as she got the popcorn out of the microwave and split it into two bowls.

"By be with you, you mean sex right?" Gabriella nodded. "Hun I wouldn't worry about that... I am sure he still wants you... But if something happens where he is afraid just reassure him you have done something to make sure that doesn't happen" Taylor smiled. After her scare Gabriella went to her doctor and told him what had happened. He did another test to make sure the home kits were accurate and then prescribed her with some contraceptive pills.

"Yeah... You're right... I am just freaking out... I miss him so much" she sighed as they grabbed the snacks and drinks and headed for the stairs.

"I know Hun... He'll be back soon" she said softly. Gabriella nodded and then composed herself as they entered her room. She hadn't told anyone else about the pregnancy scare; not Sharpay; not Kelsi; not even Jack and Lucille. The only people who knew were Troy, Taylor and Chad. Troy had called him for a talk after he found out about the almost baby and Gabriella understood, just like she did he needed someone to talk to as well. Chad had promised not to tell Kyle as he knew that Kyle would want to kill Troy for doing that to his baby sister.

"Jeez what took so long?" Sharpay said as she grabbed a bowl of popcorn from Gabriella. Gabriella rolled her eyes and sat on the bed. Kelsi sat next to her and Taylor sat with Sharpayon the floor with a blanket. Gabriella and Kelsi were sharing popcorn as were Sharpayand Taylor. They all had a drink each and then a bag of chips between them. They were watching Twilight first and then New Moon. What would happen next they had no idea.

---

Half way through 'Twilight' Gabriella's cell phone buzzed. She picked it up and opened the text she had just recieved. She smiled as she read it and immediately text back.

'Miss you babe!! Counting the days until we are back together xx'

'Miss you too babe!! I can't wait to see you, love you xx' is what she sent.

She turned her attention back to the screen and smiled. This film was one of the best she had seen in a long time. It had the right amounts of everything; romance, action, drama and for younger people even a little bit of horror if she thought about it. Her cell vibrated again and she quickly opened the message.

'We should go away somewhere... Just the two of us... You know to talk about everything... I think we need to... What do you think baby? Love you too xx' Gabriella sighed and started to reply.

'Sure babe... I think you're right... We do need to discuss everything... Where do you want to go? Love you xx' she sent back before watching the film again. It didn't take long for Troy to text her back.

'How about the cottage again? We had fun there and it is quiet and peaceful... Away from everyone and everything... Us time... Love you xx' Gabriella smiled and replied.

'Sounds perfect to me baby... Lets do it... I need you all to myself for a while... I really miss you... I love you so much xx' she then took some more popcorn which caused Kelsi to look at her and smile. Gabriella smiled back and then continued to watch the movie. She didn't get a reply from Troy until the end which she found strange as he normally texted back right away. When she read his reply though she understood why it took so long.

'I've booked it babe... We are going on the 20th - 24th... That way we are back in time for Christmas:) Hope that is ok baby... I love you xx' she had a big smile on her face as she text back and her friends noticed this as they changed the movie.

'Sounds good babe... I can't wait... Love you xx'

"Is that Troy boy?" Sharpay teased.

"Shut up" Gabriella laughed.

"I take that as a yes" Kelsi giggled.

"Yes it is Troy..." she sighed.

"Is he ok?" Taylor asked.

"Yeah... He is taking me away just before Christmas" she smiled.

"Awww... Where?" Kelsi asked.

"The same cottage as last year" she smiled

"Awww... I bet that will be nice" Taylor smiled. Gabriella nodded her agreement.

"Who's for New Moon?" She then exclaimed.

"Me!" Sharpay squealed and they all laughed as Gabriella pressed play. They all got comfy again and settled down to watch the two hour film.

Gabriella lay down on the bed as it started and cuddled a pillow to her. She missed Troy so much and couldn't wait to have him back in her arms. She wanted it to be him who was in her arms right now not a pillow. She sighed and suddenly thought watching a romantic film wasn't such a good idea... It only reminded her that her love wasn't with her.

---

Half way through the film Gabriella's cell rang. She quickly answered it and walked out of the room so she didn't disturb the others who were watching the screen intently. It was Troy of course. (Gabriella/Troy)

"Hey" she smiled.

"Hey babe" she heard him say. "What you doin'?" He asked.

"Just watching a movie witht he girls..." she said.

"Oh I'm sorry... I'll let you get back then" he said quickly.

"No... Thats ok... I am not in the mood for it anyway..." she sighed.

"Why baby? What's up?" He said in a caring tone.

"I can't be bothered with the romance... It makes me miss you even more..." she admitted.

"Awww baby... I miss you too... What film is it?" He asked.

"New Moon... Which is shocking because I love that film... I've never not been able to watch it before" she sighed.

"Woah that is a shock" he chuckled and she giggled.

"Shut up" she giggled.

"Sorry babe... Why can I not hear the movie in the background?" He wondered and she could imagine the frown that would be on his face.

"I have walked into the spare bedroom... Didn't wanna disturb the girls" she smiled.

"Ah, I see... Well if you wanna get back to the girls I will just call back later..." he said.

"No... To be honest I would much rather sit here and talk to you" she sighed.

"Ok spill... I am not buying this whole 'I am down because I miss you' crap... What else is bothering you babe?" Troy asked.

"Its silly..." she trailed off.

"Try me babe" he told her.

"I am worried..." she started.

"About what?" He asked.

"Us..." she sighed.

"Why?" She could picture his frown.

"What if it is awkward between us... Because of you know what..." she trailed off.

"Babe that is why we are going away... If it is a little awkward we can talk with no one interrupting us... I am not going to let something like that come between us" he promised.

"Ok, I know... I love you" she smiled.

"And I love you too baby... So very much" he said softly.

"What are you up to?" She asked.

"Nothing... Led in bed bored... Wish you were here..." he sighed.

"Why? What would we be doing?" She asked cheekily.

"Gabriella Montez! I meant so that I could hold you in my arms... You rude minded girl" she giggled.

"Hey! It isn't my fault... You normally would come out with a rude comment" she said and heard him laugh.

"Yeah whatever... I know you think about me that way all the time" he chuckled as she gasped.

"I do not!" She blushed.

"Awww is my baby blushing?" She giggled.

"How do you know that?!" She exclaimed.

"I know you baby" he chuckled.

"Too well it seems" she muttered and he laughed.

"Yes... It means you can't get away with things" he told her.

"Oh Troy you naive boy... I can get away with plenty... You may know me extremely well but I still have my ways..." she said mysteriously.

"First of all enough of the 'boy' stuff... I am not a boy... And secondly what 'ways' do you have?" He chuckled.

"Ok I am sorry... You're right... You're not a boy... Your my man..." she smiled. "And my ways? I can't tell you that" she giggled.

"I'll get it out of you, you know?" She could picture his smirk.

"Hmmm... We'll see baby" she giggled.

"Alright... We'll see..." he laughed. "I will go and let you get back to your friends" he said.

"Okay..." she sighed.

"I will call you again later" he said.

"Promise?" She asked.

"I promise baby... I can't go to bed without hearing your voice... You know that" she smiled.

"I know... Ok... I'll speak to you later" she told him.

"Yep... You sure will baby girl... I love you" he told her.

"I know baby... I love you too" she smiled.

"Bye beautiful" he murmured.

"Bye babe" she murmured back before hanging up.

---

Gabriella walked back into her bedroom and saw the movie was at the part where Bella was stopping Edward revealing himself to the humans' in the sun. She smiled, this was one of her favourite parts. Taylor looked at her and mouthed an 'are you ok?' and Gabriella just nodded and smiled.

When the movie was over Gabriella saw that Kelsi was almost asleep and Sharpay's eyes were getting heavy. Sharpay announced she was going to go home but Gabriella refused, saying she had to sleep over as she was too tired to go out and drive. Sharpayaccepted the offer and Gabriella got her set up in the spare room. Kelsi went to and said she'd share the room with her and Sharpay agreed to it.

Gabriella and Taylor then went downstairs and into the family room. Jack and Lucille were at a leaving party for one of Lucille's collegues so they weren't going to be in until later. It was now half past 9 and Gabriella didn't feel tired enough to go to bed yet.

"Was that Troy on the phone before?" Taylor asked.

"Yeah" Gabriella nodded.

"Everything ok?" She checked.

"I told him I was worried about things being awkward between us and he said that is one of the reasons he has rented out the cottage for a few days..." she explained to her friend.

"Yeah... I told you he'd understand... You can't let this get between you..." Taylor hugged her friend.

"I know... And I know this is stupid... Letting it affect me like this but I can't help it..." she sighed.

"Awww Hun" Taylor rubbed her back soothingly.

"Anyway I need to stop thinking about it... I will probably feel better once Troy is back" she smiled.

"Yeah... You will do babe" Taylor smiled.

"Are you going to stay over tonight or are you heading home?" Gabriella asked her.

"I will stay over" she said.

"Ok babe" Gabriella smiled.

The two then sat up talking for what felt like ages. Gabriella really liked it as she always knew she could tell Taylor anything and it wouldn't go any furthur. She loved Sharpay and Kelsi to pieces but she just feels like Taylor would understand her more. Kelsi always tries to see the best in people so sometimes if someone has annoyed Gabriella she can't go to her; Sharpay is kind of insensitive and just shrugs off problems because she doens't have manyof her own; whereas Taylor understands, she is sympathetic and will just sit there and listen.

At 11pm Taylor yawned and announced she was wiped. Gabriella told her to go to bed and that she'd be up after she'd spoken to Troy. Taylor nodded and headed upstairs. She was sleeping in Gabriella's room with her as this is what normally happened. Gabriella grabbed her cell and dialled Troy's number. After a few rings he answered. (Gabriella/Troy)

"Hey" he said.

"Hey babe... You ok?" She asked.

"Yep... Are you baby?" He asked.

"Yeah... Tired but I wanted to say goodnight to you before I go up to bed" she told him.

"Ok... Have the girls gone home?" He wondered.

"No... Sharpay and Kelswere like half asleep so I have let them have the spare room and Taylor is staying in our room with me" she explained.

"Ok... Will be good for you to spend time with them" he told her.

"Yeah... We have something planned for my birthday aswell... Even though I didn't want to do anything" she laughed.

"Oh really? What are you doing?" He asked.

"Going to the movies... Like all of us the girls and guys... Then the girls are going to come back here and have a sleepover" she smiled.

"Sounds like a good plan babe" she could hear his smile.

"Yeah... I just wish you could be here..." she sighed.

"Babe... Please don't... I have really tried getting home for it but I can't" he said in a guilty tone.

"I know you have... Still doesn't make me happy... Its my 18th... The birthday we have been waiting for!" she exclaimed.

"I know babe but what can I do?" he sighed.

"Nothing... You can't do anything... I am just saying it sucks" she pouted.

"I know... I'll make it up to you... I have your presents ready..." he told her.

"I don't want presents... I just want you" she said tearfully.

"Awww babe please don't get upset..." he pleaded.

"I'm sorry... I guess I just feel emotional because of everything... Plus I am kinda tired" she admitted.

"Ok well I'll ket you get some sleep" he said.

"Ok... I miss you a lot" she told him

"I know baby girl... I miss you too" he whispered.

"I love you... With all my heart" she murmured.

"I love you too angel" he declared.

"Speak to you tomorrow" she told him.

"Yeah babe... Night" he said.

"Good night Troy" she whispered before they hung up.

Gabriella got up as she hung up the phone and headed for the stairs. Just as she got on the bottom step the front door opened and in walked Jack and Lucille. She smiled at them.

"Good night?" She asked.

"It was lovely thanks love" Lucille said as Jack stumbled into the family room and flopped on the sofa.

"Good" Gabriella giggled at Jack.

"Did you have a good night?" Lucille asked.

"Yes... The girls are all still here... I hope thats ok" Gabriella smiled.

"Of course... Are they in the spare room?"

"Taylor is in mine and Troy's room... Shar and Kels are in the spare" she explained.

"Ok sweetie" Lucille smiled.

"Do you need a hand getting Jack upstairs?" Gabriella asked.

"No... I'll just leave him down here... He'll come up later" she laughed.

"Ok... Well I am off to bed..." Gabriella smiled.

"I will be up in a minute too... Just going to lock up" Gabriella nodded, hugged her and then went up to her bedroom.

She smiled when she entered and saw Taylor fast asleep. She quietly crept over to the bed and climbed in next to her bestfriend. She unlocked her cell and sent Troy a simple text before she went to sleep.

'I love you xx 3 xx' was all she put. She then placed her cell on the night stand and closed her eyes. Falling asleep with a smile on her face as she thought about her upcoming weeks.

It was her birthday in 5 days. It was a year since her mother's funeral in 10 days. Then she would be going away with Troy for 4 days before they came back home and spent the Christmas with his parents and hopefully her brother. She knew this would be an emotional time but as long as she had Troy, her friends, Kyle and Troy's parents she would be fine.

---

Today is the 14th December. Today is Gabriella's 18th birthday. She woke up to the sound of her phone ringing. She groaned and rolled over fully intending to go back to sleep. That though was short lived though as there was a knock on her bedroom door. She sighed and sat up before calling for whoever it was to come in.

"Good morning sweetie... Troy is on the phone" Lucille smiled handing her the home phone.

"Thanks" she smiled and then Lucille left the room. "Hey" she said tiredly. (Gabriella/Troy)

"Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Gabriella... Happy Birthday to you" she giggled.

"Thanks babe" she smiled.

"Your welcome... I tried your cell..." he stated.

"Yeah I ignored it... I was sleeping" she giggled.

"Oh right... Sorry babe..." he apologised.

"Its ok... I'm awake now" she smiled.

"Thanks to me" he laughed.

"I don't mind babe... Really its fine... What are you doing today?" She asked.

"Packing for when I can come home" he said.

"When is that again?" She asked.

"I'm not 100% sure yet babe... Definitely before the 20th though because that is when we go away" he explained.

"Ok... Well I can't wait" she smiled.

"Me either babe... What time are you meeting up with everyone?" He wondered.

"Urm... Well the tickets are booked for the 6pm viewing at the movies and we haven't made plans for before then so I am not sure..." she shrugged.

"Ah... Ok... Well I'll let you go and do whatever" he laughed.

"Alright" she smiled.

"Love you babe... Happy 18th Birthday!" He exclaimed.

"Thanks babe... I love you too" she said before they hung up.

Gabriella got up and tookthe phone back downstairs. She entered the kitchen and was shocked to see the breakfast bar full of mouth watering food. There were pancakes, croisants, bagels, cereal, freshly squeezed orange juice and some fresh coffee. She turned when she heard steps behind her and saw Jack and Lucille.

"What is all this?" She asked.

"Birthday breakfast" Jack smiled.

"Awww... Thank you" she hugged them both.

"That's ok" Lucille smiled. "We wanted to do something nice for you" she stated.

"Well it smells delicious" she smiled.

"Dig in then" Jack urged and she giggled.

"You're eating to right?" She checked and they both laughed and nodded.

"Did you and Troy have a nice talk?" Jack asked a few minutes later when they were all eating.

"Yeah... He sang to me" she giggled.

"Dear lord... You have changed that boy" Lucille laughed.

"What?" Gabriella laughed.

"He would have never sang to anyone before" she stated.

"Awww... He has a wonderful voice... He sings to me all the time" she admitted.

"Does he now?" Jack grinned.

"Don't you dare embarras him" she warned as she pointed her finger at him.

"Would I do that?" He asked innocently. Gabriella glanced at Lucille.

"Yes!" They both exclaimed with a laugh.

"You're right I would" he chuckled.

"You're mean..." Gabriella stuck her tongue at him.

"So you won't want your present then?" He raised his eyebrow.

"I wasn't expecting one" she smiled.

"Well we got you one" he smiled and Lucille went to get it. She returned a few moments later with a gift bag and then a seperate gift wrapped in paper.

"Guys you didn't have to" she said as she took them from Lucille.

"We wanted to" Lucille smiled.

"Well thanks" she said as she started to open the one wrapped in paper. Once she had unwrapped the gift she frowned when she saw it was a shoe box. She took the lid off and gasped. Inside were loads of photographs. There were some of her parents, some from when she was baby, some of her, Troy and Kyle when they were younger.

"Open the other one" Jack urged her. She nodded and looked in the bag. There was a brand new cream leather photo album with gold stitiching.

"These are great" she smiled.

"The album is empty... You can fill it however you want with these pictures or others" Lucille explained.

"It's great... Thank you" she hugged them both again. "I am going to go for a shower" they nodded.

"Happy Birthday again love" Jack smiled.

"Thanks" she smiled and left with her gifts to go upstairs.

---

After showering and getting dressed for the day Gabriella looked through all the photographs. She was shocked at some of them. This was just a really amazing gift. She smiled tearfully at some of her parents on their wedding day. Maria was pregnant with Kyle at the time as was Lucille with Troy. One of the pictures was of Maria, Carlos, Lucille and Jack. They all looked so happy. She ran her finger over her parents faces and sighed.

"I miss you" she whispered.

"They looked happy" Gabriella turned at the voice and smiled. She jumped up and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. He squeezed her tightly and kissed her head.

"What are you doing here?" She whispered.

"You don't think I'd miss my baby sister's 18th birthday, do you?" Kyle smiled as they pulled apart.

"I have missed you" she smiled.

"I've missed you too" he hugged her again.

"Where are you staying?" Gabriella asked her brother as they sat on the bed.

"Here... Jack called me... He said you looked like you needed me..." Kyle informed her.

"When did he call?" She smiled.

"A few days ago" he admitted.

"And you didn't tell me!" She wacked his shoulder.

"Hey! I wanted to surprise you" he frowned as he rubbed his shoulder.

"Well I love the surprise" she wrapped her arms around his waist and smiled as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.

"This means I can come with you tonight aswell" he smiled.

"It does... It will be great... How long are you staying for?" She wondered.

"Through Christmas... You're going to need me in a few days and if I'm being honest I think I will need you too" he confessed, speaking of the day both were dreading.

"I'll be right here" she told him as she looked in his eyes.

"You look so much like her you know" Kyle whispered as he stroked her cheek.

"Really?" She smiled.

"Yeah... It is comforting... Its like I still have her with me... Like we stilhave her with us" he smiled.

"I love you" she said.

"Love you too sis" he hugged her again.

"Ok, its my birthday... Cheer up... Do you want to do something?" Gabriella asked as she stood up.

"In a sec... I got you a present" he handed her the envelope.

"Kyle you didn't have to" she smiled as she took it from him.

"Yes I did... Dad wouldn't forgive me if his princess didn't get something special for her 18th" Gabriella giggled and opened it. She gasped when she saw what it was. Two tickets to Hawaii.

"Are you serious?" She gasped.

"Yep... Two weeks in Hawaii to chill out after graduation... I thought you could take Troy and spend some alone time together... It is in the same hotel and the same suite that mom and dad stayed in for their honeymoon" he told her.

"Oh my gosh! Kyle these are amazing" she hugged him again. "Thank you" he nodded.

"You deserve a break... Plus I know how much you are freaking out about what college to go to and how you may not see Troy much... So this will give you time together" he announced.

"I love it" she smiled.

"Good... Now how about we go to the park?" He suggested.

"Basketball? One on one?" She grinned.

"Bring it on sis" he chuckled.

"Oh it's on brother" she high fivedhim and placed the tickets with her gift of Troy's parents. The two then walked downstairs and after grabbing one of Troy's basketballs and telling Jack and Lucille where they were going the siblings left.

They decided to walk to the park and enjoyed catching up as they walked. Gabriella learnt that Kyle had a new girlfriend. She was called Natasha and was 19 years old. He showed her a picture that was on his cell and Gabriella was impressed. She was gorgeous. She had long, honey blonde hair, tanned skin and big blue eyes.

"Wow... Nice pick" she exclaimed and he chuckled.

"I know right? She isn't just gorgeous though... She is so sweet and innocent" he smiled.

"Pfftgive her another month with you and she won't be" Gabriella teased.

"Hey!" He frowned.

"I was kidding... I am really happy for you" she smiled.

"Thanks" he nodded.

"When do I get to meet her?" She wondered.

"When I have done damage control so that you won't scare her off" he laughed.

"Hey! I am lovable... Everyone loves me" she smiled.

"Yeah... Well I want to see what happens... We haven't been together long... Don't wanna scare her off with the whole 'meet the family' thing" he laughed.

"I get it... As long as she is looking after my big brother" she warned.

"Chill out Gabs... Its all cool" she nodded.

The two entered the park and went straight to the basketball courts. Gabriella rushed to them and took a free throw, the ball making a swooshing noise as it went in.

"Noting but net" she smiled at the phrase Troy used to say.

"You miss him don't you?" Kyle asked as he heard what she said.

"Yeah... I do" she nodded and passed him the ball.

"When is he home?" He asked as he aimed and got the ball through the net.

"Urm... I think he said the 18th or something" she shrugged.

"Only a few days then" he smiled.

"A few days too long is you ask me... I don't know I am kinda bummed he isn't here to celebrate my birthday with me... I mean it is the one we have been waiting for since we started dating" she sighed as she took another shot.

"I know sis... But you know he'd be here if he could be" he reassured her.

"Have you two been talking?" She frowned.

"Not lately why?" He chuckled.

"Because that is the exact thing he said" she laughed.

"Well what can I say... Best friends since pre-school... Gotta affect us in some way right?" She giggled and nodded.

"I don't know if its a good thing that my boyfriend and my brother are best friends" she exclaimed. "You both know too much about me" she giggled.

"Hey, he was my best friend first... If you don't like it go find a new boyfriend" Kyle teased.

"Pfft dream on buddy... I am hooked on him..." She sighed.

"It shows... Don't worry... You guys are one of those couples who can make it through anything" he told her.

"You really think so?" She smiled.

"Yeah... I mean look what you've come through up to now? You stayed strong when I was acting like an idiot... He has helped you through losing mom... And all that crap you went through with her and Tony... It'll take a lot to break you guys apart..." he smiled.

"I guess... When you put it that way" she smiled. She then thought about her brother's words. He was right, they had been through so much and came out of it even stronger than before. So this almost pregnancy thing won't break them apart. Just like all the other times they would talk and deal with this together. Of course Kyle didn't know how much his words meant right now and that was how Gabriella hoped it would stay.

---

After spending an hour or so at the park Gabriella and Kyle headed back to the house. They got there and saw a familiar car in the drive. Gabriella frowned at Kyle who looked just as confused. They walked inside and spotted Tony talking to Jack in the kitchen.

"Oh here they are" Jack smiled.

"Hi..." Gabriella frowned.

"Happy Birthday" Tony smiled.

"Urm... Thanks... What are you doing here?" She asked.

"Just came to wish you a happy birthday and give you a gift" he handed her the small box.

"Tony you didn't have to... I mean I haven't seen you since..." she trailed off.

"I know... But your mom had always talked about how special she wanted your 18th to be and how she had the perfect gift in mind... I thought maybe this could be from her and your dad" he smiled.

"Urm..." she was speechless. "Thanks" she said. She then opened the box and gasped. It was a ring that her dad had bought her mom for one of their wedding anniverseries. Gabriella had been obsessed with it when she was younger, always wearing it when she played dress up. "Tony this is... thank you" she hugged him.

"Your mom told me to give it you... When she was in the hospital... She asked me to take care of it until this day and then..." he trailed off.

"Thanks" she said tearfully. "Sorry" she mumbled before running upstairs.

"Gabrie..." Kyle stopped him going after her.

"She'll be ok... She just misses her... Thanks... It was a nice idea to give it her" he smiled.

"Well I'll get going... I don't want her to be upset... Just tell her I hope it helped and happy birthday again" Kyle nodded and showed him out. Jack headed for the stairs to go and talk to the birthday girl. He could hear her sobbing in her room and his heart broke. She was like a daughter to him, he hated her crying. He knocked on the door lightly before entering.

"You ok love?" He asked.

"I just miss her so much" she sobbed into her hands.

"Oh darling..." he walked over and sat by her. She let him wrap her in a fatherly hug and she cried into his chest.

"Why did she have to leave? Why didn't she fight more?" She cried.

"She did fight sweetheart... So hard... But it was her time... She wanted to be with your dad again" he soothed her.

"But I need her here! I need him here! I need them both... Who is going to be there when I graduate high school? Who is going to give me away on my wedding day?" She sobbed.

"Me and Lucille will be there... When you graduate... When you marry our son... I know we're not them but we're here all the same" he stroked her back softly. "Letting go of someone you love is the hardest feeling in the world Gabriella... But if you have others around you... Loving and supporting you... It will get easier... You won't ever get over losing them... It just gets easier to deal with as time goes on" he comforted her. Gabriella looked up and smiled.

"Thanks Jack" she kissed his cheek. "Now I know where your son gets it from" he frowned.

"Gets what?" He laughed.

"He always knows what to say at the right time... Just like you... I am so happy you are here... And I know this is kinda jumping the gun but..." she stopped.

"But what?" He asked.

"When Troy proposes... When we get married... I would want nothing more than for you to walk me down the aisle... My future father-in-law and my daddy's best friend" she smiled.

"When you get married? You're really that sure it will happen?" He smiled.

"I love your son so much... I can't ever imagine being with anyone else now I have been with him..." she smiled.

"I can't see that either... Just looking at you guys together I can see it is forever..." he told her.

"Just how I want it" she smiled. Jack nodded and stood up.

"I will leave you to yourself for a little bit... Remember I am here if you need to talk" she nodded. Just as Jack reached the door he turned. "Oh and Gabriella?"

"Yeah?" She looked up at him.

"Nothing would make me happier or prouder than to give you away to my son" she smiled.

"Good" he nodded and left the room.

---

After spending a few minutes composing herself Gabriella went back downstairs. She smiled when she saw Lucille but wondered where Jack and Kyle had gone.

"They have just gone to do some guy stuff or something" Lucille rolled her eyes.

"Ah... Okay..." She giggled.

"You feeling ok? Jack told me you were upset" she smiled sympathetically.

"Yeah... He made me feel better... I guess my birthdays won't ever just be happy anymore huh?" She sighed.

"Aww sweetie I am sure they will be... this is just because it is the first year since she died" Lucille hugged the young girl.

"I guess... I hope so... I hate feeling like this... I just wish Troy was here... I know I'd feel better straight away" she sighed heavily.

"Oh sweetheart... He will be home soon... Then you will get two weeks together" Lucille smiled.

"I know... I can't wait" Gabriella smiled as she pulled out of the hug. "Thanks Lucie... I kinda feel like I am depending on you and Jack too much" she laughed.

"Don't be silly sweetheart... We're here for you whenever you need us" Lucille smiled.

"Thanks... It means a lot... Anyway I need to get into party mode" she giggled. "Sharpay won't forgive me if I am on a downer" she rolled her eyes.

"You're right there honey... What time are you meeting everybody?" Lucille asked.

"I'm not sure... I am going to call Sharpay now actually" she giggled and went out into the back garden. It was surprisingly quite a nice day to say it was December. Gabriella dialled Sharpay's number on her cell and it didn't take long for her to answer. (Gabriella/Sharpay)

"Happy Birthday!!" She squealed and Gabriella giggled.

"Thanks Hun" she smiled

"What have you gotten so far?" She asked excitedly.

"Urm... Photo's and an album to put them in off Jack and Lucie... Kyle has turned up and he got me two tickets to Hawaii for after I graduate... And then surprisingly Tony turned up and gave me something really special that my mom made him promise to give me on my 18th... So I have been spoiled so far" she smiled.

"Wow... I didn't expect that last one" they both giggled. "I am so excited to give you my gift!" Sharpay squealed.

"Shar..." Gabriella groaned. "I said no presents" she sighed.

"Girl its your 18th! Don't be ridiculous" Gabriella rolled her eyes.

"Whatever... If you have spent loads I won't be impressed though" she warned.

"Chill... It wasn't that much... And its off me and Zeke" she explained.

"Ok... Fine" she laughed.

"So what'd you call for babe?"Sharpay asked.

"I was just wondering what time we are meeting and stuff?" Gabriella stated.

"Urm... Well the movie starts at 6pm so if we say meet outside the theatre at 5:30pm?"Sharpay suggested.

"Sounds good Hun" Gabriella smiled.

"Good... Well I better go... Zeke is demanding my attention" Gabriella giggled as she pictured Sharpay rolling her eyes.

"Alright... See you later babe" Gabriella said.

"Love ya"Sharpay said.

"Love ya" Gabriella repeated and then hung up.

Gabriella then walked back insideand filled Lucille in on what her plans were for tonight. Lucille said it was fine and demanded she enjoy herself. Gabriella giggled and nodded. She checked the time and saw it was 3pm meaning she had a couple of hours yet before she needed to go anywhere so she decided to go and call Troy. She went to sit on the front porch bench-swing and dialled his number.

He didn't answer and she frowned. He always answered, even if it was just to tell her that he couldn't speak. She smiled when she heard his voice on his voicemail.

'Hey you reached my voicemail, sorry I can't take your call right now but I am most probably busy with my baby, so leave a message and I'll get back to you' she giggled before she heard the beep.

"Hey baby... It's me obviously... Urm I just called for a chat but you must be busy or something so I will speak to you later I guess... I love you" she sighed and the hung up. "God I miss him" she said as she saw his smile on her cell phone.

The picture was of Troy while she was in LA for his birthday. They had just participated in certain activites and were cuddled up in bed. He looked super happy and she wanted to capture the moment so she took the picture on her phone and loved it. So now she saw it everytime she was on her cell and it reminded her of their love, lust and passion.

"Hey Gabster" Gabriella looked up and squealed. She ran down the porch steps, down the path and jumped into Chad's arms.

"Chad!" he chuckled and spun her around. "I have missed you" she smiled.

"I've missed you too... Happy Birthday by the way" he told her.

"Thanks... Are you coming tonight? I sent you a text about the plans but I am not sure whether you got it or not" she smiled.

"No I got it.. Forgot to text back though" they both laughed. "I will be there" he confirmed.

"Good... We booked you a ticket anyway" she giggled.

"Good stuff... Is your brother in?" He asked.

"Nah... Gone to do something with Jack" she rolled her eyes.

"Ok" he laughed. "Well look I gotta go... Just thought I'd come wish you happy birthday and I needed to see Kyle but I'll catch him later" Gabriella nodded.

"Ok... He's coming tonight so you'll see him then" she smiled.

"Oki doki... See you later Gabs" they high fived, hugged and then he left. Gabriella could feel the goofy smile that was on her face. Her birthday was almost perfect. All she needed was Troy here and then it would be the best. Obviously she wanted her parents back too but that was impossible to hope for so she just wished for Troy to come back.

---

At 5:30 Gabriella smiled when she spotted her friends waiting for her. She and Kyle had just arrived at the movie theatre and everyone else was already there. Sharpaywas there withZeke, Kelsi withJamie, Taylor with James and then there was Chad, Kyle and of course the birthday girl.

"Happy Birthday!" All the girls squealed.

"Thanks" Gabriella smiled as everyone hugged her.

"Ok... Shall we do presents out here, when we are inside or go for dinner after the movie and do it then?" Sharpay asked.

"Dinner" Gabriella smiled.

"Ok... Let's go inside then" Sharpaysmiled and linked arms with Gabriella. Everyone else laughed and followed behind them. After picking up their tickets they went to the concession stand.

"Why don't you ladies go and get good seats and we'll get the snacks?" Zeke suggested.

"Good idea babe" Sharpay kissed him. The girls then all walked into their screen and smiled when they saw it was still empty. They rushed to the back and got the centre seats.

"How has your day been so far babe?" Taylor asked Gabriella.

"Ok... Emotional... I think I have felt a bit of every emotion" she laughed.

"Awww... Well hopefully the rest of the evening will be all happy" Kelsi stated.

"Yeah... I'm sure it will" Gabriella smiled.

The girls continued to talk and laugh as the screen started to get filled. They were watching the new comedy 'Kick Ass' which meant the screen was getting quite full. The guys arrived soon after and they all sat down. Gabriella sat in between her brother and Chad. Next to Chad was Zeke then Sharpay. Next to Kyle was James then Taylor, then Kelsi and Jamie. They all continued to chat and catch up until the movie begun.

Half way through the movie Gabriella's cell vibrated in her pocket and she saw she had a text. She kept her cell in her lap and opened the message, glancing up at the movie screen as she read the text. It was from Troy.

'Sorry I missed your call baby... I know you'll be at the movies now but I just wanted to say I love you too 3 And I hope you have a good night:) xxx' She smiled and quickly text him back.

'That's ok babe... I just felt like a chat, nothing important:) I will call you when I get out of the movie theatre:) Love you Wildcat 3 xxx' she then placed her cell back in her jeans pocket and focused on the movie.

When the movie was over they all agreed it was funny. They spoke about their favourite parts as they left the screen and got outside. Gabriella got out her cell and called Troy as they decided where to go for dinner. This time he answered. (Gabriella/Troy)

"Hey baby girl" he answered.

"Hey babes" she smiled.

"How was the movie?" He asked.

"Good... Very funny... You'd love it" she told him.

"I'll have to watch it then huh?" He chuckled and she smiled.

"Yeah you will..." she said.

"What are you doing now?" He asked as she began walking, following the others across the road to a restaurant.

"Just going to get some dinner" she stated.

"Is Kyle with you?" He wondered.

"Yep... Why?" She asked.

"Could you put him on the phone for a minute?" He requested.

"Hmmm... Sure..." she said. "Kyle? Troy wants you" she handed her brother her phone.

Taylor then pulled her along and into the Italian restaurant. Gabriella smiled at her best friend and they linked arms as they were shown to a table. Everyone sat in a large booth and Kyle stayed by the door as he spoke to Troy. He came over soon though and handed the phone back to Gabriella.

"Hello?" She said.

"Hey babe... Look I will let you get back to everyone... Tell them I said hi and I will call you later" Troy told her.

"Ok babe" she smiled.

"I love you baby" he murmured softly.

"I love you too babe" she stated.

"Bye Birthday Girl" she smiled.

"Bye baby" she said before hanging up.

"He ok?" Taylor asked.

"Yeah... He missed a call of me earlier thats all" Gabriella smiled. "What did he want you for?" She asked her brother.

"Guy stuff nosey" Kyle laughed.

"You were on my phone! He can bloody well call yours next time then" she stated.

"Fine... I'll tell him to never call you again" he teased.

"Pfft like that would happen" she rolled her eyes and everyone laughed at the two bickering siblings.

"Ok guys come on" Chad laughed.

"What's everyone having?" Zeke asked.

Everyone spent the next few minutes deciding what they wanted to eat. Once the waiter had taken their order he disappeared and they all started to talk again. Gabriella caught Kyle and Chad whispering and she frowned. That had to be about Troy and what he wanted Kyle for... It just had to be. Chad caught her looking at them with a frown and laughed.

"Where is your beautiful smile Gabs?" He joked.

"Right here" she smiled.

"Keep it there" he said and she giggled.

"Yes sir" she saluted him and everyone laughed.

They all laughed and joked and just hanging out again as tey ate their meals. Gabriella couldn't help feel like it wasn't right completely though as there was one person missing, one person who always made get togethers fun. Troy. She sighed heavily as she played with the food on her plate.

"What was that sigh for?" Kelsi asked.

"I just wish Troy was here" she sighed.

"Girl you don't need a man to have a good time!" Sharpay exclaimed.

"Easy for you to say when your man is sat right next to you" she spat. "I'm sorry... I didn't mean that Hun... I guess I am just still upset he couldn't make it back for my birthday" she sighed.

"Its alright" Sharpay smiled.

Chad changed the subject by saying something dumb and making them all laugh. Gabriella sent him a grateful smile and he just winked at her causing her to giggle. She had missed being with everyone like this and ok, so she missed having Troy here, that didn't mean it would ruin her night. She would enjoy the rest of the mealand then she would enjoy a sleepover afterwards. They had decided to have the guys all sleep over as well now. Kyle had checked with Jack if that was ok and he nodded saying they could camp out in his office if they wanted.

So after the meal, which Gabriella wasn't allowed to contribute to, they all headed back to the Bolton's house. Gabriella got a ride back with her brother and agreed to meet everyone there. She smiled at Kyle as they set off and he just gave her a smile back.

Back home there was a note from Jack and Lucille saying they decided to go out for dinner for some alone time meaning they had the house to themselves for a while. Everyone arrived around the same time and brought their gifts with them as they had all forgotten to do that at the restaurant. Gabriella was made to sit in the chair and open them one by one.

First was the present of Taylor and James. It was a white gold necklace witha slanted heart hanging of it with the matching studded earings. It was a beautiful gift and just the right type of jewellery for Gabriella. She thanked and hugged them before Kelsi handed her the gift off her and Jamie. They had got her a braclet to match Taylor and James'sgift and she smiled. She hugged them both and Sharpay flung two gifts at her.

"Two?" Sharpay questioned.

"You can say one is off me and one is off Zeke if it makes you feel better" Sharpay sighed and everyone laughed.

Gabriella opened the gift bag first and gasped. Inside was a short black, satin dior dress. It was simple and plain but still gorgeous. It was totally the type of thing Gabriella would wear. She hugged Sharpay and Zeke before opening the next gift box. Inside was a pair of Christian Laboutin heels to match the dress. She gasped.

"No way! You take these back!" She demanded handing them to Sharpay who shook her head.

"No... They are a gift... I will be offended if you don't accept them" she smirked.

"But... Laboutins cost a fortune!" She exclaimed.

"I have money remember?" She said in a 'duh' tone.

"So... That doesn't mean I want you to spend it all on me!" Gabriella exclaimed.

"Girl you're keeping the shoes... End of" she said, a tone of finality in her voice.

"Fine..." she sighed. "But I am not happy" she warned.

"That's ok... You'll get over it when you see how great your feet will look in those" Sharpay squealed and Gabriella rolled her eyes.

"Whatever crazy" she teased.

Everyone laughed and Gabriella hugged Sharpay again. She thanked her and promised she would take the best care of those shoes ever. This caused another round of laughter and Gabriella loved it. She was happy that all her friends were here.

---

The gang were all sitting in the family room listening to music and laughing and joking. Zeke, Chad and Kyle had been to the store and bought some alcohol; beers for the guys and wine for the girls. Gabriella had had nearly four glasses and it was safe to say she was getting typsy. The girls were sat in a corner gossiping and drinking their wine as the guys were doing whatever guys do and drinking their beers. When a song that Chad liked came on he stood up and started dancing making everyone burst out laughing at his expense.

"I think the birthday girl should dance with me!" He declared and everyone cheered.

"No way" Gabriella giggled.

"Go on Gabs!" Sharpay yelled.

"Gabi! Gabi! Gabi! Gabi!" They all started to chant and she giggled and let Chad pull her up.

Gabriella giggled when Chad started to twirl her around the family room to 'Tick Tock' by Kesha. Everyone started singing along and cheering and Gabriella laughed at Chad as he danced. She soon relaxed and started dancing too and spinngaround withChad. He then tripped over the table leg, falling over but knocking her as he went. Gabriella ended up on the floor with Chad on top of her. They looked at each other and burst out laughing.

"Dude get off her" Kyle laughed as he and Zeke pulled him off her.

"Ow" she moaned as she got up.

"You alright babe?" Taylor laughed.

"Yeah" she giggled.

They all calmed down a little after that and turned the music down a little. Gabriella felt really light headed due to the alcohol so she flopped on the sofa. Taylor sat next to her and laughed. Gabriella layed her head on her friends shoulder and smiled.

"Thanks for coming tonight" she said.

"That's ok... This was fun" Taylor smiled. Gabriella was about to speak when her cell rang. She picked it up and smiled when she saw it was Troy. (Gabriella/Troy)

"Baby!" She exclaimed.

"Urm... Are you drunk?" Troy asked.

"Hmmm.... Maybe a litte bit" she slurred and then giggled.

"Oh...kay..." he said slowly. "Who is there?"

"A lot of people" she giggled.

"Someone who isn't drunk?" He wondered.

"Urm... Taylor?" She suggested.

"Could you put her on the phone babe?" He asked.

"Sure..." she slurred. "Tay my baby wants you!" She giggled and Taylor laughed. (Taylor)

"Hey Troy" Taylor said through her laugh.

"Hey Taylor... Could you do me a favour?" He asked.

"Sure Troy boy, what is it?" She smiled.

"Make sure Ella does drink anymore alcohol? She can't handle it well" he laughed.

"I'll try but she is like a woman on a mission" Taylor laughed.

"Oh god..." he groaned jokingly. "Has she danced yet?" He asked.

"With Chad yes" she giggled.

"Oh my lord... That couldn't have ended well" he laughed.

"He ended up collapsed on top of her" she laughed.

"Oh god... Is she still awake?" He laughed.

"Yeah... Sort of" she giggled.

"Can you put her back on?" He requested.

"Sure..." she smiled. "Gabs... Troy wants you" Gabriella took the phone from her friend and got up, stumbling into the kitchen.

"Hey baby" she smiled.

"Babe... Don't you think you should go to bed?" He said slowly.

"No... I am good babyy" she giggled.

"Please don't drink much more" he pleaded.

"I won't" she sighed.

"Promise?" He said.

"I promise gorgeous" she giggled again.

"Okay... Well enjoy yourself ok?"

"I will baby... I can't wait until you can home so we can both enjoy ourselves" she murmured seductively.

"Yeah... Me either baby" he laughed.

"I really love you" she sighed.

"I love you too" he said.

"I mean like I really, really love you" she told him.

"Baby I know... You go enjoy yourself and I will call you tomorrow" he said.

"Ok... I miss you" she said.

"I miss you too sexy" he murmured before they hung up.

Gabriella then stumbled into the family room and flopped back down on the sofa. She noticed a few people crashed out and others still talking and drinking. She smiled at Kyle who was looking at her.

"What's up big bro?" She smiled.

"I think maybe you need to go to bed and sleep off some of the alcohol" he said protectively.

"But its my birthdayy!!!" She whined.

"Yes but you are going to have a bitch of a hangover in the morning sis" he laughed.

"So... I'll deal with that then... I am just enjoying my birthday" she smiled.

"Leave her alone Kyle" Sharpay said.

"Fine..." he sighed.

They all stayed up talking for hours after that. They continued to drink and laugh and just enjoy themselves. It was around 3am when they eventually went to bed. Sharpay and Zeke where in the spare bedroom; Kyle and Chad were sleeping in the family room on the sofa and recliner chair; while Kelsi, Jamie, Taylor and James where sleeping in Jack's office. Gabriella went up to her bed and snuggled under the duvets. It didn't take long for her to be asleep.

---

Gabriella woke up the next morning not feeling so clever. She groaned and pulled the duvet over her head. It felt like there was an elephant dancing on her head and she wanted it to stop. She heard a light tap on the door and came back out from under the covers to see Taylor smiling. She motioned for her to come in and let her get in the bed.

"How are you today?" Taylor laughed.

"Please don't shout" Gabriella moaned.

"I'm not" Taylor giggled.

"Oh jesus..." she groaned.

"Why don't you have a shower? Might make you feel better" Taylor smiled.

"Hmmm... I need asprin and water though" she mumbled.

"I'll go get that... You have a shower" Gabriella nodded and regretted it. She carefully got out of bed and groaned when her head pounded. "Jesus Gabs! What is that?" Taylor gasped.

"What?" Gabriella frowned.

"That bruise on the top of your leg..." Gabriella looked and saw the huge purple bruise that was forming on the top of her thigh at the back.

"Oh my god" she said.

"That must have been when you fell" Taylor stated.

"When did I fall again?" She asked.

"When you and Chad were dancing" Taylor laughed.

"Me and Chad were dancing?" She frowned.

"Yes... You go shower and I am sure you'll start to remember things" she giggled.

"Hmmm whatever... You know I am not even bothered right now... I just need to get rid of this bitch of a hangover" she laughed lightly.

Taylor smiled sympathetically and went to get some asprin for her friend as she showered. Gabriella ran the warm water and stripped out of her shorts and T-Shirt. She then stepped under the running water and sighed. The warm water felt soothing on her skin and she could feel the headache slowly going. Not fully but a little bit.

After showering Gabriella left the bathroom wrapped in a towel and saw some asprin and a glass of water on her dresser. She smiled and happily took the tablet. She then put on some fresh underwear and her purple jog pants and a plain white tank top. She then tied her hair up in a messy bun and went downstairs. She smiled when she saw everybody sat in the kitchen and was even happier to see Chad looked just as bad as she did. She sat next to him and he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.

"Feel shitty?" He asked.

"You have no idea" she laughed.

"I think I do" he laughed.

"Thanks for bruising me by the way" she giggled.

"Huh?" He asked confused.

"We were dancing apparently and you fell on me... Now I have a big bruise on my leg" she told him.

"Sorry" he chuckled.

"S'okay" she mumbled.

Gabriella had some dry toast and coffee for breakfast as did Chad. The rest had a croissants made by Lucille. After an hour or so everyone left to go home so that they could shower and change and refresh themselves. Gabriella cleaned the family room even though Lucille protested that she could do it. Kyle helped his sister and once the house was back to its normal state she said she was going back to bed. Lucille and Kyle laughed as she walked up the stairs.

Gabriella crawled into bed and sighed. God she hated feeling rough. She swore to herself she was never going to drink that much ever again! She closed her eyes and her headache eased a little. The last thing she remembered was it was around 11:30am when she came to lie down.

---

Gabriella woke up some time later and hesitantly opened her eyes. She was relieved when her head didn't hurt as much. She still felt tired though and went to roll over when she colided with another body. She screamed and lept off the bed. She then faced the bed and froze in shock.

"Jeez what a nice greeting" Gabriella was speechless.

"Tr-Troy?" She smiled.

"Hey babe" he got up and she rushed over to hug him.

"What are you doing here?" She gasped.

"I managed to get a lot of assignments done in the past few days so my tutors said I could come home" he explained.

"Oh my god!" She squealed and hugged him tighter.

"I guess you're happy then?" He chuckled.

"Oh my gosh... So much" she smiled and then kissed him passionately. As she kissed him they walked him backward towards the bed and when his legs hit the edge they tumbled down on the soft mattress.

"Mmmm..." Troy pulled away.

"What?" She asked breathless.

"Nothing... I just want to look at you" he smiled as he traced her face with his finger tip. "How is it possible that you have gotten even more beautiful since I last saw you?" he murmured.

"I have not" she blushed.

"To me you always look more beautiful every time I see you" he smiled.

"You are so good for my ego" she giggled.

"Oh no... Your head is going to be like mine soon" he teased. Gabriella giggled and kissed him again.

"I love you" she whispered.

"I love you" he repeated. "Oh, here, your presents" he smiled and got off the bed. He walked over to where he had dumped his bags and took out some wrapped gifts. Gabriella smiled as he came back over to her. They both got under the covers and then Troy handed her the gifts. She smiled and opened the first one.

She squealed excitedly when she saw what it was. She had been hinting for ages that she needed a new camera. She was fully intending to buy one herself but she didn't need to now. The present was a baby pink digital camera with loads of different settings and themes.

"Thanks babe" she kissed him.

"You like it?" He asked.

"I love it... It is just what I wanted" she smiled.

"Good... Now open the other" he urged and she nodded. She opened the envelope and saw there were two tickets to a posh spa hotel. She smiled and looked at him. "I know they aren't much but I couldn't think of anything else to get you and I couldn't just get you the camera after how much you spoiled me on my birthday and..." Gabriella cut him off with a kiss.

"Babe these are lovely... I could do with a nice massage" she smiled.

"I can give you one of those" he winked.

"I know... You can tonight" she grinned and he nodded.

"It is a done deal baby" he grinned.

"I can't wait" she giggled.

"Good" he kissed her. "Who are you going to take?" He asked. Her answer shocked him.

"Lucie I think" she smiled.

"My mom? Why?" He frowned.

"She has been there for me lately... She has done a lot for me... She deserves a break away too" she smiled.

"I think she will love that babe" he smiled. "Have I ever told you how much I love you?" He asked.

"A few times" she murmured against his lips.

"Well I love you" he whispered before kissing her softly.

"Hmm... Love you too handsome" she smiled as they pulled away.

After a few more minutes of just holding each other Troy announced they had to get up. Gabriella moaned and hid her face in his chest. He chuckled and kissed the top of her head before trying to get up. This was a hard task though as Gabriella gripped onto him tighter.

"Babe..." he laughed.

"No... I just want to stay like this... I have missed this" she whispered.

"Babe we can do this later... You have me for a few weeks... I'm not going anywhere" he smiled.

"Promise?" She murmured as she looked up at him.

"I promise" he sealed it with a kiss.

Gabriella then smiled and got up off the bed. Troy followed after her and they headed downstairs. Lucille spotted them coming down the staircase and she smiled. Gabriella had the sparkle back in her eyes.

"You feeling better sweetie?" She asked.

"Much better... Especially now your son is back" she smiled and hugged Troy's waist.

"I knew that's get your smile back" she stated.

"My smile?" Gabriella laughed. "I have been smiling" she said.

"Yeah but not a real smile..." Lucille started.

"I wasn't aware I had a fake one" she giggled.

"Not fake exactly... Just not as big and bright as when he is by your side" Lucille motioned towards her son who was just listening to his girlfriend and mother talk.

"Oh... Well I never knew that" Gabriella frowned.

"Its ok though... Is back now" Lucille cupped Gabriella's face in her hands and smiled. "Now I need to go to the store" she announced as she let go of Gabriella and grabbed her bag and car keys.

"Oh Lucie?" Gabriella called as she reached the door.

"Yes dear?" She smiled.

"Troy got me two tickets for a spa hotel... I was kind of wondering if you wanted to come with me?" She offered.

"I would love to darling" she nodded.

"Ok" Gabriella smiled and then Lucille left meaning the two lovers were alone.

---

"When did you realise you'd be able to come home?" Gabriella asked as she cuddled up to Troy on the sofa a little while later.

"Last night... You know when I spoke to Kyle?" He felt her nod. "Well it was to tell him and to ask if he'd be able to pick me up from the airport" he explained and she looked up at him.

"Why didn't you tell me?" She pouted.

"Because I wanted to surprise you... That is kinda why I was not wanting you to drink too much last night... I didn't want you being hungover when I got back... But you were" he chuckled.

"I feel ok now... I think I was tired more than rough babe" she smiled.

"Ok... Well we will just chill out today so you can definitely recover" he laughed and she giggled too.

"I am so happy you are back" she squeezed his waist tighter and placed a soft kiss on his neck.

"I am happy to be back... I have missed you so much... And I have been so worried about you" he admitted.

"Worried? Why?" She frowned as she sat up and faced him. He took her hand in his so there was still some form of contact between them.

"The whole baby thing" he said hesitantly. Gabriella sighed and looked down at their hands. "Babe look at me" he told her and when she didn't move he placed a finger under her chin and moved it so she could see him. "I know you don't want to talk about this... I don't either to be honest... But we need to discuss it..." she nodded.

"I know... I just don't think I can yet... I know I wasn't pregnant but it still kinda feels like I have lost a baby... Which is stupid because the baby never existed... But for a week before I did the test I kinda assumed I was pregnant so to find out I wasn't it made me feel... I don't know" she sighed.

"Baby I get that and it is not stupid" Troy told her.

"It is though... I mean it is kind of selfish of me... There are people out there who have actually been pregnant and lost the baby... I just thought I was and I am feeling like this? I don't even know why..." she trailed off.

"Babe you are not being selfish... You are being human... You are dealing with a loss and are dealing with emotions you have never had to deal with before" he pulled her to him for a hug.

"I am so glad you are back... You make it all go away" she whispered into his chest.

"Babe I am not trying to make it go away... It will always be there if you just forget about it... I just want to help you deal with it" he told her.

"I know... I understand that... It just helps having you here... You have been here but not physically... I know you have tried over the phone and the internet... But it just wasn't the same" she sighed.

"Well I am here now... And when we go away together we are going to deal with this... But I don't think we should..." he trailed off.

"Should what?" She asked as she looked up.

"Sleep together" he said quietly.

"What? Why?" She asked.

"It won't help... I know you baby... Afterwards you'd just be thinking what ifs and I don't want that" he sighed.

"Babe I won't... I can't..." she mumbled.

"You can't what?" He frowned.

"Get pregnant" she told him.

"What?" He looked confused.

"After the scare I went to the doctors... He did a test to be sure... And then he put me on the contraceptive pill... So we're good" she giggled.

"Why did you not tell me before?" He wondered.

"I just forgot to..." she shrugged.

"Well we will see what happens then" he shrugged.

"Ok..." she nodded.

"I love you" he smiled.

"I love you" she grinned and kissed him softly.

The two spent the rest of the afternoon cuddled up on the sofa, enjoying being back together again. Gabriella smiled as she snuggled closer to him and felt him kiss her head. It was simple gestures like that, that she missed. A couple of hours after she left, Lucille returned. She had Jack and Kyle trailing behind, helping her carry in the groceries. Once that was done Jack entered the family room with Kyle and they both grinned.

"You happy now?" Kyle teased his sister.

"Extremely" she stuck her tongue out at him as she sat up so he could sit next to her as Jack sat in his recliner chair.

"How long you home for son?" Jack asked Troy.

"Urm... I go back the week after Christmas... So what like three weeks or something?" He guessed.

"Babe when did you get good at math?" Gabriella teased and Troy laughed.

"I have always been good at math" she frowned.

"No you haven't... You always used to ask me for help... Even though I am younger" he smirked.

"That was my way of spending time with you alone" she giggled.

"Awww... So you pretended to be crap for me?" She smiled.

"Yep" he laughed.

"Awww... You're sweet" she rewarded him with a kiss on his cheek.

"I know" they all laughed.

They spent the next hour or so getting caught up with Troy. Learning what he has been up to and how his work load was. In turn he asked about the gym and how college was going for Kyle. Everyone enjoyed the catch up and was happy to have Troy back home. At around 4 o'clock Troy and Gabriella excused themselves and went upstairs. Troy said he needed a shower and Gabriella wanted to check her emails.

Once they were upstairs Troy pushed Gabriella onto the bed and mounted her body before kissing her neck softly. She giggled and squirmed on the bed as she ran her hands through his hair. He pulled away to look her in the eyes and he softly stroked her cheek with his thumb.

"I thought you wanted to shower?" She giggled.

"Yeah but then I got distracted" he smiled.

"By what?" She frowned.

"You" he laughed. "I thought this..." he motioned to their position. "Made that obvious" she giggled.

"Well I am sorry about being a distraction" he laughed.

"Hey, don't apologise... I love this type of distraction" he smirked as he leant back in for a steamy kiss.

---

Eventually Troy had his shower and Gabriella managed to check her emails. The distraction got the better of him and the two ended up making love. Gabriella was still led on the bed, in nothing but Troy's Wildcat hoody. He emergd from the bathroom all refreshed and clean and he grinned when he saw his girlfriend. She was laying on her stomach, her legs up and swinging behind her, her bum was revealed slightly as his hoody moved up a little and she was singing along to the music on her laptop.

"Are you trying to kill me?" He groaned and she looked up at him.

"Huh?" She asked with a frown.

"You... Lying there... Half naked..." he dropped hints and she giggled.

"Sorry babe... I'm comfy though... Will you get me some shorts from the drawer?" She smiled sweetly. Troy did as she asked and handed her some red shorts. Gabriella got up carefully as to not flash too much and slipped into the shorts. "Better?" She asked holding her arms out to the sides.

"A little... Still doesnt help knowing you have no underwear on" he smirked and she rolled her eyes.

"Whatever... Get dressed" she giggled and he laughed too. Troy put on some of his jog pants and a plain T-Shirt. He then got on the bed and Gabriella leant into him, placing the laptop on her lap. She ended up sat inbetween his legs, browsing the internetas he twirled with her curls.

"What you doing babe?" Troy asked some time later.

"Nothing... Just browsing babe... Do you want me to get up?" She asked, looking over her shoulder at him.

"Nah... I'm perfectly happy having you right here" he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer. Gabriella smiled and rested her head back on his chest. He placed a gentle kiss in her hair and she sighed.

"Are we doing anything tonight?" She asked.

"I just want to stay in with you... Why don't we get a take out for dinner?" He suggested.

"Yeah... Sounds good babe" she smiled.

The two stayed as they were, listening to music and just relaxing for another hour or so. Eventually Troy announced he was starving and needed food. Gabriella giggled and got up from leaning on him so he could stand. He went downstairs to ask his parents and Kyle if they wanted anything. A few moments later he arrived with his cell to his ear. Gabriella smiled when she saw him ordering, knowing exactly what she wanted before she even told him. When he was done she walked over to him and wrapped her arms around his waist.

"Are they having something?" She asked as she looked up at him.

"Nah... Kyle is going out with Chad somewhere and mom and dad are going out with some friends" he smiled.

"Don't you wanna hang out with the guys?" She frowned.

"No babe... I wanna be with you... I have three weeks to see them" he reassured her before kissing her softly.

"You know I don't mind if you wanna go with them though..." she told him.

"I know baby... I am just enjoying being with you right now" he smiled.

"Ok... If you're sure" she smiled.

"Never been more sure of anything" he said before kissing her again.

The two then decided to go downstairs ready for when the food arrived. Kyle was just leaving as they got into the family room and Jack was waiting for Lucille to finish getting ready before they too were heading out. Troy's parents left about ten minutes later and Gabriella smiled.

"The whole house to ourselves" she murmured as she kissed his neck softly.

"Hmmm... I know... But babe?" She looked up.

"Yeah?" She asked.

"Can we think about that after food? I think I will pass out otherwise" he said as she giggled.

"I'll hold you to that" she warned him.

"I am hardly likely to forget am I? When do I ever pass up the opportunity to take you to bed?" He smirked and she giggled.

"True point" she said.

The two then cuddled up on the sofa and continued to talk and watch television. They enjoyed being with one another and when the food came Troy refused to let Gabriella pay for anything, saying it was another birthday present. At that she laughed and shook her head at him.

The two ate together, sharing bites and feeding each other. After they had eaten their food Troy put a movie on and Gabriella got a blanket to put over them. Troy then gave her a glass of wine and he sipped a beer, making her promise not to get too drunk and at that she giggled.

They were watching 'Final Destination 3' at the request of Gabriella. This shocked her boyfriend as she normally hated any form of horror movie. She giggled when he revealed he was shocked and told him she was getting better and braver when it came to watching these kind of movies.

Troy chuckled half way through when she hid her face in his chest. He wrapped her in his embrace and kissed her hair softly. She snuggled deeper into him and sighed. She was loving being this close. She was so scared that the almost pregnancy would change their relationship but it didn't. As Taylor said, like every other problem or situation they have faced, this made them stronger.

---

Gabriella woke up on the 19thDecember and wanted to fade away for 24 hours. Today was the one year anniversary of her mother's funeral. Now you may be thinking why is she so upset about the year since the funeralbut not the actual death? But to Gabriella the funeral made it all real... It was the day she said a proper goodbye so it was the day she hated most. Just like when Carlos died, she only started to believe he wasn't coming back on the day of his funeral when he was lowered into the ground.

She rolled over, expecting to come in contact with the body of her boyfriend but the bed was empty. She frowned and tears filled her eyes suddenly. The one day she needed him to hold her; the one day she needed to wake up in his arms and he wasn't there.

She climbed out of bed and walked into the bathroom. She looked in the large vanity mirror and hated what she saw. It was like her feelings showed on the outside. You could see the sorrow and upset in her eyes. Her face was pale, eyes puffy and red. It looked like she hadn't slept in months.

She splashed her face with cold water, hoping it would put a bit of colour in her cheeks. She then cleaned her teeth and went back into the bedroom. She tied her hair up in a messy bun and kept her shorts and Troy's hoody on.

Gabriella then left the bedroom and walked downstairs. She looked in the kitchen and saw no one. She looked in the family room and saw no one. Where was everybody? Why was she alone on the one day she needed not to be? She then heard a noise from the front porch and gasped when she looked out of the family room window. It was snowing! She loved the snow. She put her ugg boots on and opened the front door. Five faces turned around at the sound.

Lucille, Jack, Troy, Kyle and Chad were all there making a snow man. Troy's smile dropped when he saw her face. She had red eyes - an obvious sign she had been crying; she was pale and she wasn't dressed. He walked over slowly and tentivelywalked up the porch steps until they were face to face. Gabriella looked up at him and the moment their eyes connected hers filled with tears.

"Oh baby" he pulled her to his chest. "Shh, it's alright... I am right here" he whispered.

"But you weren't... You were gone... And I thought you'd all left me alone" she cried.

"Oh baby I am so sorry... I didn't think how you'd feel waking up alone... Its just we saw the snow and we wanted to make a snow man for when you woke up... We know how much you like the snow" she nodded as she lifted her head off his chest.

"I know... I'm sorry..." she sighed.

"You don't need to be sorry babe... Want to come and help? You can put on his nose" he smiled holding up the carrot causing her to giggle.

Gabriella took the carrot from him and walked down to everyone else. Kyle gave her a brotherly hug, as did Chad and then Jack and Lucille sandwhichedher between both of them in a parenting embrace. Gabriella smiled and stuck the carrot in the snow man's head. She then turned around and grinned at Chad.

"I'm guessing putting the afro wig on him was your idea?" She giggled.

"Hey! He looks cool!" Chad exclaimed and they all laughed.

"Sure he does" Troy chuckled as he wrapped his arms around his girlfriend's shoulders from behind. "Aren't you cold baby?" He murmured in her ear.

"I'm alright" she said softly as she watched Kyle and Chad get into a snowball fight.

"You will get sick baby... Come on let's go get you dressed properly" she laughed.

"I am a big girl babe... I can dress myself..." she then frowned as he smirked.

"I know... I just wanna be there when you strip off" he winked and she giggled.

"Troy Bolton!" She slapped his shoulder and he chuckled.

"Come on... The snow will still be here when you're dressed" she nodded and after explaining where they were going the two entered the house.

---

"How do you think she's doing?" Lucille asked her husband as they sat on the front porch swing.

"I don't know... I think Troy being here has helped an awful lot" Jack told his wife.

"Yeah... I guess... I just worry about her... She isn't as strong as she makes out" Lucille sighed.

"She's fine babe" Jack smiled and kissed his wife softly.

---

"How do you think Gabster is doing?" Chad asked Kyle as they leant against the porch frame.

"I don't know... Okay I guess... I think Troy is really making this easier" Kyle said.

"Are you ok with that?" Chad asked.

"What do you mean?" Kyle frowned.

"Well you have lost your mom too... So are you ok with Gabriella wanting Troy? I mean know one knows what she is going through like you do..." Chad trailed off.

"Dude, so long as my baby sister is happy I am happy... And if it is my best friend that makes her forget about this then I am not going to get in the way of that" Kyle sighed.

"Well I am just checking... Making sure your dealing with it" Chad patted his shoulder.

"Man I'm cool... I am trying not to dwell on it... But thanks anyway" Kyle smiled.

"Boys... Come in for some hot chocolate!" They heard Lucille call out to them.

"Yes!" Chad exclaimed and ran in. Kyle laughed and followed, shaking his head as he did so.

---

Troy and Gabriella came downstairs a while later and heard everyone in the kitchen. They followed the noise and smiled at the scene. Chad and Kyle were arguing over who had most marshmallows in their drink as Jack and Lucille shook their heads laughing.

"Jeez you two are still like 6 year olds" Gabriella laughed as she entered the kitchen hand in hand with Troy.

"Oh hey you two" Lucille jumped up and started making them some hot chocolate too. "You feeling ok sweetie?" She asked Gabriella who came to stand by her as Troy went to his friends.

"Yeah... I am kinda trying not to think about things too much... Take the day one step at a time" she smiled.

"You are such a strong young woman dear" Lucille hugged her in a motherly embrace. "But just know you can always break down in front of me ok?" Gabriella nodded with a smile.

"I know Lucie... Thank you" she kissed her cheek and then took her hot chocolate. She then walked over to Troy, Kyle and Chad and hopped up onto the counter. Troy stood inbetween her legs and she gave him a soft kiss. Lucille placed her son's drink on the counter top and then she and Jack left the young ones to it.

"So who wants to do something today?" Kyle asked as they al sipped their drinks.

"Like what?" Gabriella smiled.

"Well, I was kinda thinking me and you could go see mom and dad..." he trailed off. "Then we can all meet up and do something" he finished.

"I... I don't think I can" she mumbled looking down.

"Sis come on... How many times have you been since she died?" He asked.

"Not a lot but its hard for me ok?" She sighed.

"But they need someone" he told her.

"You think I don't know that? Where are you huh? When was the last time you went to their graves?" She asked loudly as she jumped off the counter.

"That is different... I am away at college" he frowned.

"Oh so because I am still here it is my responsibility to take care of everything? Make sure there are fresh flowers and no weeds? That is the way this works?" She laughed.

"I'm not saying that..." she interrupted him.

"You know what... Whatever... I can't deal with this right now" she mumbled before walking off.

The whole kitchen fell silent as they heard the front door slam shut. Kyle went to go after her but Troy stopped him. Kyle frowned at his best friend.

"You are the last person she will want to go after her right now" Troy said before leaving the room.

"Dude why did you do that?" Chad asked after he heard the front door close again, this time a bit more quieter.

"Do what?" Kyle frowned.

"Bug her about the graves... You know she hates going there... On a day like today as well..." he shook his head and finished drinking his drink.

---

Gabriella stopped near a bench that was at the end of the street. She sat down and sobbed into her hands. How could Kyle be like that? On today of all days, she thought. She knew she shouldn't have blown up like that but he wasn't thinking before he spoke.

She felt a familiar arm wrap around her shoulders. She leant into his touch and he kissed her head, repeatedly telling her it would be fine and that he was right there. She nodded against his chest and continued to cry. After a few more minutes she was slowly calming down and the voice she loved so much spoke.

"He didn't mean it baby" Troy whispered.

"H-he did" she stuttered.

"Not in a way to upset you... He just thinks going there will help" he defended his best friends actions.

"I c-can't be there Troy" she sat up and wiped her eyes. "Knowing they are under the ground... Knowing I won't ever get to hear their voices or see their smiles again... It is so hard" she sighed emotionally.

"Baby I know..." he took her hands in his and kissed the back of them.

"He just... I can't believe he was being like that... I wasn't their only child... I shouldn't be the only one responsible for making their graves look nice" she exclaimed.

"Baby I know... And we both know Chad will be giving him so much shit right now" she giggled and nodded. "But today is hard on him too..." he stated.

"I know that... And I feel for him because I know his pain... But he can't expect me to deal with things the way he does... I know after going to the graves he will feel better... Like a weight has been lifted... But I know it will just make me feel worse" she sighed.

"How do you know?" He asked.

"Because I don't like graves... They are horrible places... I just want to think about them at home... Think about what they would be doing if they were here right now... I don't need to go to a grave to do that" she told her boyfriend.

"Ok baby... Just calm down alright? No one is forcing you to go... If you don't want to then don't" he shrugged.

"Thank you" she whispered hugging him again.

"I didn't do anything" he smiled.

"You're here... That's all I need" she murmured before leaning up to kiss him softly. "I love you so much" she sighed.

"And I love you too beautiful" he smiled.

---

Troy and Gabriella wandered back into the house some time later after talking and walking around for a bit. As soon as she walked in Kyle rushed over and hugged his sister tightly. She loosely hugged him back as she still wasn't over what he said completely yet.

"I am so sorry sis" he told her.

"I know" she said.

"I didn't mean to upset you" he pulled away.

"I know" she nodded. "I just really don't wanna talk about it... And I really can't go there today... Go with Troy and Chad or something... Tell mom and dad I said hi" she mumbled before going upstairs to lie down.

The three guys all just stood there. Troy frowned and instead of going after her he went to the family room. His mom and dad were sitting on the sofa watching television and he sighed.

"Dad?" He questioned.

"Yeah son?" Jack smiled.

"Gabriella is upset... I have talked to her but she is still a little down... I am going to go with Kyle and Chad to the graves... Would you be able to go and talk to her?" He wondered.

"Of course... I'll give her a few minutes then go up" he smiled and Troy nodded a thanks.

The three guys then left to go and visit Carlos and Maria. All of them hoping Gabriella would feel better soon because it killed all three of them to see her so down.

---

Jack knocked lightly on Gabriella's bedroom door. He heard a soft 'come in' before he turned the handle and entered. He closed the door behind him and walked over to sit beside her on the bed.

"You ok love?" He asked.

"I guess" she shrugged.

"Want to talk about anything?" He asked. "Anything at all... The weather?" He suggested jokingly.

"Nah I'm good" she giggled.

"You sure?" She nodded as she looked at him.

"Thanks though" she smiled.

"Well just so you know those three have gone out for a while... So if you wanna talk me and Lucille are right downstairs ok?" She nodded. Jack then got up and just as he reached the door Gabriella called his name. "Yeah?" He turned.

"Do you think people who have died can still see us?" She asked quietly.

"I think they can yes" he nodded.

"So mom and dad will be watching me?" She said in a soft voice.

"I think they will be yes... They will be looking over you" he returned back to his position by her side.

"I just miss them... I know I have my memories but I would give them all up just to be able to hear their voices one last time" she sighed.

"Oh sweetheart" he pulled her into a fatherly embrace.

"I just need them... I still need them to look after me... I can't believe they will miss everything" she sobbed.

"Shh... Its ok... Let it all out" he whispered as he kissed her hair.

"I want my daddy" she cried.

"Oh dear..." he said feeling emotional himself at the thought of his best friend.

"I need him... I miss him so much..." she cried. "I miss them both" Jack nodded in understanding.

"I know love... They are always with you" he pulled back and wiped her tears. "Right here" he pointed to his heart.

"I know... Its just hard" she whispered.

"Sweetheart I know... There isn't much else I can say apart from I am here if and when you need me" she nodded.

"I know... I just think I need to be by myself for a while" she stated.

"Then I will go... But if you need anything at all..." he trailed off.

"I know... Thanks Jack" she hugged him before he left her with her thoughts.

Gabriella knew she would have tough times and hardships. Life was never easy. Life is the hardest thing to achieve. She knew though with the love and support of the unit around her she could do anything. She had so many people who loved and cared for her.

Taylor - Her bestest friend who she could turn to at anytime.

Kelsi & Sharpay - Who could always make her feel better.

Jack - Who reminded her so much of her dad it was like he was living through him.

Lucille - Her mother's oldest friend who was like a second mom to her.

Chad - Her adoptive brother.

Kyle - Her real brother.

Troy - Her boyfriend; her lover; her soul mate.

How was this? I hope it was ok:/ I felt the need to show Gabriella's 18thand the first year of her mother's death.

I am thinking of a time skip now to try and get this story wrapped up... What would you guys think of that? I have the whole ending planned out and I know exactly how it will go... I just hope you are all ok with a few time skips from now on as I got a review saying they thought the story was dragging on too much and I don't want that to be how my readers feel:/

Please Review:)

xxx Paige xxx