Chapter 36 – Finals

"It all starts tonight," my eyes scanned the TV, "The NBA finals between Knicks and the Spurs, it's gonna be an exciting series as the Knicks just came off the wins of their lives, beating the defending champs, Miami, it was a big series and now here they are, getting ready to take it all home back to New York."

I sighed; Troy had been quiet, focused and ready to win over the past two weeks as he had practice twice a day. He slept a lot more and he was just being a dad too. Our lives were in a routine that couldn't be broken.

Jenni was finished with school; Carson and her joined our group here. Some of Troy's other family members were here, as they wanted in on the action. "Knicks Troy Bolton, removing himself from the Lakers after that showdown with his coach in December, he came to New York and has showed his true talent on the court, it makes me wonder if that coach was truly holding Troy back.

Carson came out of the room as he was in a Knicks shirt, "its odd going from a Lakers fan to a Knicks fan," he mentioned to Jenni who was right behind him. "It's okay, I still secretly love the Lakers." She said I rolled my eyes, as Troy still loved the Lakers. That was his team growing up and it still would be.

Emma was officially six months in two days, I couldn't believe it had been six months since everything had fallen apart and been patched up again. It was mind blowing honestly. She had yet to really roll over. She tried but grew frustrated, she was still small, not really her doubled weight where she was supposed to be.

She had her head propped up as she lay on her stomach at the moment. Her eyes scanned and she cooed more, her developments are slow and we weren't going to start solid food for another month even though we started Liam at six months. She just wasn't ready yet and I was okay with that, she looked up at me, she woke up every four hours through the night looking for food and sometimes at other moments of just sobbing.

She had her moments where she just wanted to be held by Troy or I. She looked at me with her brilliant eyes, "What's up cutie," I picked her up and tucked her in my arms. I kissed her forehead gently and she giggled.

"Are you going to watch Daddy play tonight or are you going to sleep again?" she giggled and I smiled, Liam, Jenni, Carson, Jack, Mason, and Chad were all going to travel with Troy, I was included too. Lucille was going to take care of Emma for me as we traveled to and from.

"Dada," Liam pointed to the screen and I looked to see Troy was doing an interview, a towel was thrown over his shoulder as he was in his workout shirt, his clothes wet with sweat, his face glammed as the sweat rolled down his cheek.

"Troy Bolton, it's your first time in an NBA final, what are you expecting?"

"To win," Troy stated, "Yet, I am also looking to just have fun and enjoy the moment."

"Is it hard to bounce right back after a loss?"

"In the locker room its tough, all of us were expecting more from ourselves but as everybody knows, I have a two year old, when I get home, I remember that this is a game and that I can go out and win another day. My little guy just runs up and hugs me after every game, or when ever he sees me next. He doesn't know the difference between a win or loss but he is just happy watching."

"So your family helps with that?"

"Totally, it's hard to come back after a loss because you have so many expectations, So going home to know it doesn't matter what happened on the court, it helps. It's easier when you have a fantastic support system."

"Are you nervous?" Troy laughed, "Who isn't nervous?"

"How much family do you have in town for this?"

"Plenty," Troy teased, "My apartment in New York is full and I mean we all know that New York apartments aren't huge. I even rented the one next to me so I can space them out," the interviewer chuckled, "Wife Gabi I presume is here?"

"Totally, she is such a great support, always here when I need her. I can't imagine how rough it has to take care of our two little ones by herself most of the time. She is such a blessing to let me do what I want."

I smiled, "Well Troy, good luck tonight and I know all of New York is cheering for a win from you guys,"

"Thanks," he waved as he was pulled away and into the locker room. I giggled as the TV flipped to a commercial. "Wow," Taylor mentioned, "That man loves you,"

"Duh," I mentioned, Liam ran over to me, "Dada!"

"Do you want to go see him before the game and tell him good luck?" I asked Liam, he nodded, Troy left the apartment before many of us got up for an early morning workout. Liam had yet to see him today, "Let's get going then,"

I put socks and shoes onto Liam's baby feet and I made sure I had everything for Emma. "Let's go," we all traveled to our cars and got in, I found all of our passes as Logan and Meg came up, a few of his cousins, Haley, Anthony, Jillian, were all here.

I smiled, as the car was full, I scooted between Liam and Emma. Emma giggled, as Jack was brave enough to go with the traffic of New York. It didn't take us long to get to Madison Square Garden from our apartments. Jack waved the pass as they directed him to a parking spot, Chad following us with his.

Parking next to each other, we all got out as I placed both of my kids in the stroller. I pushed them inside as Liam protested, "Come on bud, work with me for a minute. When we get to daddy you can get out,"

Emma chewed on her toys as she was in the phase of sticking everything in her mouth. The crowd of followers was loud, we approached the doors and we were all let in. "Mr. Bolton,"

"Yea,"

"Guests,"

"Okay,"

His voice made Liam stretch to get out, I laughed as Troy came around the corner, his eyes light up as Liam struggled to get out of the stroller. He whined and Troy chuckled, "Come here big guy," he unbuckled Liam and Liam latched onto Troy, "aw, he is the sweetest child ever,"

I looked over to see a girl standing there, Troy laughed and he looked at her, I arched an eyebrow, "I know, I love this child," I looked at Taylor who shrugged her shoulders, I cleared my throat as Troy turned his attention to me, he looked at me and he took a breath, "Gabi, this is our team activity coordinator, Amanda,"

My eyes narrowed at the girl, blond hair, green eyes, and a tight fucking dress. That wasn't really appropriate. "Hi, Gabi," I said shaking her hand, "I have heard so much about you from Troy," I eyed Troy as he turned away from me. "Oh really,"

"Yea and so much about Liam here,"

My eyes went to Emma, "Oh is this the little one Emma!" Taylor shot me a glance and she peered into the car seat, Emma was awake and she cried out. I went over as she screamed from looking at the girl. I tried to bite back the laughter as I picked her up, "Shh," I pressed my head against hers as she clutched my shirt. "There is my little girl," Troy kissed the top of her head and then the top of my head.

"We need to talk," I murmured, "We are friends," he whispered into my ear, "Mhm," I said with a slight nod, Troy rolled his eyes as I leaned back against him. "Friends don't scare my children," Troy cringed, "She is new,"

"And so were you, shouldn't somebody who knows more be her guide," Troy shot me a look, "Sorry," Troy sighed, "I'm going to be right back," Troy handed Liam to my mom as I kept Emma as Troy dragged me away, "Gabs,"

"I trust you Troy, I don't trust the green eyed girl back there that can't stop checking you out for five minutes." Troy sighed rolling his eyes, "Yea good thing you are the only person I ever want to check out," he leaned towards me as I was pressed against a wall.

His fingers scrapped under my chin as he lifted my head gently, "It's just you and me." He whispered against my lips, I felt goosebumps travel down my lips as he kissed me. I felt my heart flutter and he smiled, "You won't have to worry about her okay?" his fingers gazed over mine, "Because I think she is ugly. You know me and green eyes," he shook his head and I laughed quietly, "I'll stick with your beautiful brown eyes."

I smiled as I pressed my face into his neck, "And plus, I have this cutie," Troy took Emma from my shoulder as he played with her for a minute. Her giggles wild and we went out into the area again as Amanda was gone and everything was normal again.

Whew.

Win one goes to us.

My legs crossed and I watched as they shuffled off the court as it was now a rest day and back at it the next day for wins number two. I wanted this to go by quick; I didn't want to drag this out.

It was a tight game but the Knicks remained in most of the control. Emma and Liam both fell asleep, as it was a late night game. Taking them back to the apartment was difficult as we walked back, the honking horns and the people that were all heading home after an exciting game. Liam woke up and only wanted to be held but I shushed him with his blanket.

The apartment was loud and noisy as everybody was still on a high from the game. Some of his family sat down courtside while I stuck with the kids up top. "Alright, it's bed time for the kids so we have to keep quiet," I announced with a look towards them, "Okay," they all shuffled out to go next door where they could talk more freely.

Emma was easy, as she didn't wake up with the transfer. Liam became fussy, as he was so exhausted he only cried. I slipped my shoes off as I cuddled up with him in bed. I wrapped the blankets around him as I cuddled close to him.

"Such my little boy," I whispered into his ear.

He tossed and turned from the exhaustion that wouldn't find him. I rubbed his back, as he was tired and grumpy. Soon he fell asleep as I tried my hardest not to fall asleep with him. My fingers ran through his hair as I kissed on his forehead. My lips pressing against his normal forehead,

I closed my eyes and rested.

"Brie," my eyes flew open as Troy was standing over me, his eyes being found easily. "Hi," I whispered, my head pounded with a headache as Emma was pressed against me, his body leaned over, "and do you want me to take him to bed?" I shifted as I was still in my jeans and tank top, I nodded stiffly as Troy went to pick him up and he whined. He opened his eyes and began to cry clutching me.

"Never mind," I spoke quietly, "It's one of those nights," I muttered, Troy sighed as he squatted next to us. "Do you want out of your jeans?" I shook my head, "I'm fine," I whispered as I cuddled next to Liam again.

Troy went to get into the shower and then joined us after. He touched his forehead close to mine and he kissed it softly. "Get some rest,"

"Mkay,"

Liam giggled as he ran through the park. Troy and I were taking a walk with the kids to get out of the apartment. Troy linked hands with me as he had a workout earlier this morning but was now free until later. He kissed the top of my head.

"Can you believe Emma is six months old?" he asked me, I shook my head, "I honestly can't believe it. Liam is almost two and half, it's getting crazy."

"Honestly, it is." I watched as Liam picked up a flower and she ran over to show it to us. "Thank you!" I claimed, he grinned as Troy noticed a swing set, "Liam, do you want to swing?"

"Swing?" he questioned, Troy pointed to them and Liam nodded with excitement, "Come on," Troy walked over with him as I followed. Emma was asleep in the stroller, as I had just fed her a little while ago. I parked Emma close by as I sat down on a swing right next to the one Liam was in. Troy pushed him gently as Liam leaned back and laughed.

I smiled as I went back and forth, I watched as Liam giggled every time pushed him. "Higher!" he cried, Troy shook his head as he smiled watching him. It was a warm June afternoon; we were all in shorts and a t-shirt. Emma was only in an onsie with a pair of shorts.

A smile produced on his lips as Liam giggled again, "I love that sound,"

"Liam's giggle?" Troy asked me, I nodded, "It has to be my favorite thing by far,"

Troy smiled, "When you made them all laugh one day, it was so magical." I told him, Troy went to recall the memory and then he smile, as he knew what I was talking about. "All of my favorite people happy." Troy grinned as he stopped pushing Liam, as he would swing just by him self easily.

"Alright, mommy's turn," I gapped, "I'm not sure that's in my physical therapy," I told him, "Don't move your legs, I'll do the work," I nodded and Troy pushed me, a giggle left my mouth as he was pushing both of us at the same time.

Both of laughs entered the air as Liam would try to reach for me and I would for him but we couldn't reach. A laugh echoed from my mouth as Troy smiled, I slowed down as Troy looked at me, "You're right," I smiled, "I know I'm right,"

Troy laughed, "Well well, aren't you pretty confident," I nodded as I stuck my tongue out. "That was uncalled for," Troy said, I giggled as I got up, I moved away as I ran a little, Troy laughed, "Hey,"

I laughed as I turned to see him chasing me, I moved around poles and around, my eyes stayed on Liam and Emma, Liam was full of amusement. "Gotcha!"

I screamed, "That's not fair! I was looking at the kids!" Troy laughed as he spun me around, "Too bad," he kissed the back of my neck as I shook my head, "I have a bad leg anyways,"

He smiled as he kissed me, "Makes it easier for me," I rolled my arms as we got Liam out and continued our walk through Central Park. Liam was full of energy at the start and he slowly was becoming tired. "I think we should head out, grab dinner, and get everybody ready for bed."

"Sounds good," We turned around and Troy took us to a little diner, I smiled softly as we got settled, Troy ordered Liam and himself food while I just got a cheeseburger. Troy smiled as he looked over at me.

"So after this week, I'm done," Troy said with a smile, "Then it's just you and me," I smiled as I laid my head down on the table. "I'm tired," I whispered, "I bet you are." I lifted my head as Troy ran his fingers across my jawbone. "But you are gorgeous," I smiled as he kissed me softly.

"So what are we going to do this summer?" Troy asked, "Potty train," I said with a pointed look, "This child is almost three and he is not potty trained,"

"Yea, yea, maybe it will go faster since he waited for him to become older. He will grasp it faster."

"I pray, that means less diapers."

"That's always a bonus,"

A smile spread over my lips and I nodded, "it is,"

"Plus I am hoping by the end of the summer this one is one a lot of solid foods,"

"Mhm,"

"What else?"

"What about a vacation?"

"A what?"

"A vacation,"

"I think we have spent plenty of time away from home," I commented, "I know but I'm always playing basketball away from home. Let's go back to Florida or something," I shrugged, "Maybe, let's see how our summer begins to unfold and then we can see,"

Troy rolled his eyes, "Okay,"

Our food was pushed in front of us as we all ate; even Liam ate all of his food. He played with some of it; a couple of fries fell to the floor as he was becoming tired. I nodded as Troy packed him up and we paid the bill.

As we walked back, Troy slipped his hand through mine.

Owen dribbled the ball down the lane; he pushed out and slammed the ball through the hoop. The crowd roared as the Knicks were down by three, I was hoping we could just take two right here.

It was just moments after half time, Troy took his position on the court, he rolled around to block the shot but it skimmed his fingers and went in, Troy rebounded the ball and quickly tossed it to Jake.

Jake took the ball and he flashed a three, topping his head and then a two. Troy moved cross court as Jake passed it off, he ran to the top of the key and Troy bounced the ball between his legs and out as he looked at Owen who had an open shot.

Troy flashed the ball to him and the shot went up. It sank through to tie the game.

The crowd was on their feet as they cheered to the song. The room-vibrated energy as Troy placed one of his hands one his knee. He bent over to breath for a moment and was standing again as the ball was being passed our way.

They defended as the crowd yelled defense. Troy fouled as he threw his hands up complaining he didn't foul, the ref wasn't having it as he flashed the fourteen. Troy scowled and he stood behind the line as he communicated with his coach.

He wiped the sweat off of his face with the shirt he was wearing. He nodded as his eyes flashed around, Troy watched as they sank the two free throws. The Knicks rebounded the ball in and they took it down court. Words were shouted and the intensity was growing through the room.

Liam was standing and cheering from the booth. He clapped his hands and he looked at me with impatience. He wanted to go down there and play too. A smile spread over my lips as Taylor was leaning back with Alexa. Chad was fussing over them at the moment but his attention was brought back with a dunk by Jake, "Sweet damn," Chad muttered, Troy was pulled from the game as the subs all came in.

Troy sat against the bench, drank a thing of water and Gatorade as he caught his breath.

He was out for a total of forty-five seconds, the game tied as the third quarter winded down. I flexed my legs out, as they stayed tied through the third quarter. Nobody had dominance in the game, as it was up for grabs by anybody. I took a breath as I focused on everything that was happening.

After they came back out for the fourth quarter, Troy had his fingers taped again and he took control of the ball. The Knicks scored a quick five points to become the leader of the game by five points.

The Spurs reacted back with a three, with a two-point lead, they missed four shots and slowly the lead became tied again. They struggled on the court as a time-out was called. Troy took another drink as he tapped his foot onto the ground. He took a towel and wiped the sweat from his face.

He then tossed it to the chairs and went back out onto the floor. The next three minutes flew by as the Knicks had yet another lead by three. Troy tripped and the guy was fouled, Troy banked two shots into the net.

That gave them another five-point lead with two minutes left.

It seemed to always come down to the last two minutes. The Knicks took complete control for the last minute and thirty seconds. They were up by seven at this point with only thirty seconds left.

The spurs shot a three that spun and landed, the Spurs rebounded quickly as they tried to set up another outside shot but a time-out was called. Meetings were heard from the Coaches as everybody was holding their breaths wondering what the hell was going to happen.

I nervously chewed on my nails and I looked at Liam who was sitting quietly. A song blared over the stadium and I pressed back against the chair I was sitting in. When they retook the court, everybody was out of time-outs.

Troy took a deep breath as he glanced around; he then focused as the whistle blew.

The next fifteen seconds fell apart as they got up a three to cut the score down by one.

They quickly fouled us; we took the two free throws that made it a three-point game. They got the ball back and they were quick down the line as the set up the three, the clock winded down and the Spur shot up the ball.

The buzzer sounded as everybody stopped to watch.

Once it touched the rim, it circled and it bounced off.

A cheer was heard through the stadium as the Knicks cheered and bounced around as they won game two. I shook my head as if that would have went in, they would have had to play in overtime which they did three times with the Heat.

Every time that happened, the Heat won the game.

Chad shook his head, "That got really sloppy at the end."

"It got really sloppy," I said with an agreement nod, "Really sloppy,"

"Brie," I turned as Troy smiled, we were traveling today and I was riding with Troy down. He wanted me too and they made it okay for Liam to come along even though it was no kids allowed.

He was in a suit and tie; my mind went crazy, as he was dressed so nicely. I was in a dress as Liam was in a pair of khakis and a nice shirt. "Come on," I went to sit next to him and he leaned over, his lips pressing against my temple. "So are you ready?"

"For?"

"A flight with the team?"

"It can't be that different?"

"We have fun," Troy with a grin, I shook my head as I sat my head on his shoulder. Liam was already strapped in and ready to go. Troy smiled as he looked at me, "So two and o, I think I like this."

"I like it too,"

"That gives you lee-way,"

"That means if we can just win the next two we are champions,"

"Let's hope you can win the next two then,"

Everybody was roll called and we were quickly up in the air. Music was blaring from headphones, cards were being played, movies were watched and everything was so comfortable as I leaned my head onto Troy's shoulder.

He directed our lips together as I sighed into the kiss. "This week is going to be a lot of flying,"

"I know, I hate the fly here and fly there," Troy said with a sigh, "It's stupid,"

"I know," I rubbed his shoulders tightly and he leaned back against me. His lips moving to my forehead as I draped my legs over his lap, "We need to take Liam to see Monsters University. We just came out."

"He is going to love it."

"Kitty," I mentioned, Troy smiled as he looked at Liam, "Maybe our next off day we can go see it,"

"Sounds brilliant."

The next game was almost the complete opposite of the lost. A team had total control; it was just the wrong team.

The Spurs won 101-90. It was like that most of the game, it was high scoring and the Spurs had a lot of dominate control. Troy made thirty of the 90 points, one of his all time scoring highs. He had a game of his life but the team couldn't match and he couldn't win for the entire team.

As we shuffled into the bus that was transporting us back to the hotel, Liam rested his head onto my shoulder as most of the wives were along just in case a win happened here. It wasn't going to look like it now.

Liam was tired and grouchy as we arrived back at the hotel. "Gabi," I turned to see Natasha waving me, "Hey," I smiled as I walked forward, "What's up?"

"We were wondering if you wanted to go out tonight with us."

"I would love too but I have this little one," I mentioned as he pressed his head into my neck. "I think a few other moms are babysitting the sleeping ones,"

'It's okay; really, I think I am going to go hit the sack anyway. I'm pretty tired myself. Thanks though,"

"Okay,"

She turned back to the group and when I got to the hotel room, it wasn't ten minutes later that Troy walked in. "I think we are going out tonight." Troy mentioned Liam ran to give Troy his hug and Troy greatly accepted it.

"I know, I was asked to go but I think I am going to stay back with Liam. Plus I'm breastfeeding so,"

"I'm not going either," Troy said as he fell back against the bed. Liam crawled onto Troy's chest and lay there. Troy wrapped him in his arms as Liam babbled about something. Troy closed his eyes as I undressed and got ready for bed. I then crawled up and next to Troy. He smiled and wrapped his arm around my waist.

"All of my favorite people,"

Troy picked up Liam as he was buying movie tickets. I was so excited to take Liam to his first movie. We had been going over the rules all day today that we have to be quiet and we can't scream.

If you need something ask mommy or daddy quietly. This was to only be quiet and to be good. Liam seemed to understand, he clutched my hand as we walked in together. His eyes roamed around as Troy asked him if he wants M&Ms or gummy worms.

Liam chose M&Ms, he bought a popcorn and a bottle of water. When we got into the movie theater, Troy grabbed a booster seat for Liam as we walked in to the back row. Troy found a spot and he settled Liam in-between us.

I smiled softly as we settled him into the seat, his eyes glued to the big screen as a commercial was playing over it, an advertisement. "Big," he said pointing to it, Troy and I nodded, "Very big,"

Liam smiled as Troy gave him a couple of M&Ms and popcorn to munch on. He was quiet and Troy put his arm over the back of Liam's seat and his fingers reached to my neck. I giggled as he scraped the back of my neck with his two fingers. I turned to look at him as he winked; I kissed Liam's head as the lights went off. Liam looked at me in fear as I cleared the booster seat and I settled Liam into my lap.

Troy moved into Liam's old seat as his arm wrapped around my shoulders, Liam leaned back against me. I smiled as previews happened; Liam was just amazed with those. His eyes followed everything.

I rested my head on Troy's shoulder as he kissed my forehead gently. Once the movie began, Liam grew with excitement as Mike Wazowski appeared on the screen. He nearly squealed with delight as Troy chuckled next to me. "Quiet," I whispered into his ear, he pressed his lips together and he put his fingers to his lips. I nodded with a smile as he did well for the first half.

He watched in amazement, it wasn't so much about what they were saying or doing, it was just seeing. When they got hurt or something he understood, he laughed. After halfway through, Liam began to grow anxious, he began to fidget and want to move around.

We switched laps and he rested against Troy for some time but he slowly became the same way. "We will take a bathroom break, be back in five," I whispered, I took Liam as we went out of the theater, I let him move around and babble talk for a few minutes. "Are you ready to go back?" I asked him with a patience look. "Yes," I picked him up as we returned after only missing a couple of things.

He rested back against me and he finished the rest of the movie. Once the lights came back on, Troy looked at Liam, "What did you think?" Liam giggled, "Kitty!" Troy grinned as we took a quick picture and Troy seemed to have posted it somewhere as we headed back to the hotel.

"Team dinner tonight," Troy mentioned, "Mmm, sounds good," I observed. Liam fussed, as he wanted down, I let him out of my arms as he ran around the lobby. "Come on bud," Liam ran to Troy as he threw his arms in the air, "You ready?"

"Yes!"

We walked back to the hotel, as it wasn't a very far walk. We had Liam be a little swing as Troy and I let him fly into the air. His giggle surrounded us, as I couldn't keep the grin off my lips. "I like one on one time with him," Troy said with a soft sigh, "I know, it's good to just spend time with him,"

"I miss Emma though," I told him with a small sigh, "I wonder how she is holding up,"

I nodded my head as I did wonder, when we entered the hotel. We had to get ready for the team dinner that was happening in the hotel lobby area. We had Liam dressed in shorts with a nice shirt. I put on a dress and Troy had on slacks with a button up shirt. My hair was bundled in a tight bun behind my head as a perfect hairpiece placed in. My make-up was light, as I didn't wear nearly as much anymore.

I smirked as Chad came out of his room, "Taylor called, I guess Emma has been pretty fussy today," I sighed softly, "I'm sorry, I have to call," Troy gripped my elbow, "Babe, it can wait a couple of minutes. She is going to be fussy if you call or not,"

"I need to apologize to Taylor, that's not fair to her."

"It's fine," Troy soothed, "Just relax okay?"

"Troy's right, she knows you have taken care of Alexa at some of her times."

I sighed, "Fine, I'll call in thirty minutes,"

"Thank you," he kissed my forehead gently and we went down to the dinner where Mason and Jack were already standing around talking with a cold beverage in their hands. Troy and Chad had one to compliment in a couple of seconds as we mingled around the place.

I sat down with Liam at a table as he began to whine. His eyes looked at mine; "Are you tired?" he nodded as he rubbed his eyes, a cry leaving his mouth. I reached my arms out as he crawled into my lap. His head burying into my chest, I rubbed his back in circles as I watched mostly everybody go around and talk. Drinks being passed around, Amanda was seen talking with Troy and Chad.

I shook my head, I wasn't all that hungry and Liam was exhausted. He had already eaten his dinner in the hotel room since he wasn't going to want to eat shrimp and whatever the hell they were serving.

Standing up, I went over to Troy as I was stopped several times.

A few wives wanted to talk.

"Troy always talks about him and we never get to meet him or you for that matter!" I introduced myself to them all and Liam was groggy asleep on my shoulder. "So are you going to move with Troy to New York this summer?"

I shrugged, "I don't know, maybe," I responded, "We will have to see how our summer goes."

I braved a smile, as I was annoyed. I was tired and annoyed.

"Brie," I went to see Troy waving me over, "Hey, is he okay?"

"I think we are just both pretty tired, I wish we could stay longer but we are going to go up to the room." Troy studied my face, "Are you sure it has nothing to do with that I was talking to Amanda?" he asked, I felt my eyes go wide, "Why do I care Troy? I'm tired, Liam is tired, and I think we are just going to call it a night. It's been a hell of a week."

Troy sighed, he locked me in his arms, "I'm sorry, it was stupid of me." He said with a whisper, "Go get some rest, I'll be up after the dinner okay?"

"Okay,"

Unlocking the apartment door, Troy dragged in Liam and our luggage, as it was late. They lost the second game too.

So the series was tied at two apiece. After dinner, Troy had brought me a plate but I was already asleep so he saved it for when I got up to breastfeed. I licked my lower lip, as the whole apartment was quiet.

I settled Liam down into his crib as he was passed out. I shuffled into my room where Emma was asleep, I bent over and she was all snuggled up. I bent over as I picked her up, resting her against my chest. "There is my pretty girl," I whispered, I kissed her temple and I then crawled into the bed. She woke up briefly but fell back asleep; Troy came into the room as he undressed from his suit and tie.

He yawned as I was in yoga pants and a tank top already. Troy crawled onto the bed as he moved some of Emma's hair, I kissed his chin, and "I love you Troy,"

"I love you too Gabs," I smiled and he pulled me close, "Tomorrow I think we need some Emma one on one time," Troy said quietly as he pressed his lips to my forehead. I nodded my head as I curled into Troy.

Emma settled between us. I kissed on her and she turned her head away. "I still can't believe she is ours," I laughed quietly, "I know," I told him, I rested my head against his and he kissed me softly.

"Get some rest Brie, we have another long week ahead of us,"

I sighed as I rested against him, "Okay,"

I put Emma back into her bed and then curled up with Troy.

"Troy!" I yelled for him as he came sputtering out of our room. A pair of boxers and a dress shirt on, right in the middle of changing, "Come here," I waved my hand as Emma was laying on her stomach, she was gaining force to roll over as I watched her.

She cried in frustration but she kept trying. I smiled as Troy fumbled with his phone to videotape it.

I smiled as I sat on the arm of the chair, Troy and I watched for a couple of moments as she then finally rolled over onto her back. She giggled as she faced up at us, Troy laughed, "Alright, we have a naughty one her," Troy set his phone down and he got onto the floor to kiss Emma's forehead.

"That's as far as you get to go, rolling over, got it? No crawling or walking and defiantly no dating," I giggled, "Go get dressed," I said smacking his ass, Troy bounced up and looked at me with his wild eyes. I laughed as he shook his head, "That wasn't very nice,"

"When am I nice?" I whispered into his ear, he turned to face me with a glowing look, "Oh really," he picked me up and I laughed as our mouths met each other. "Whoa, Whoa!" Chad's voice interrupted us as Troy sighed; he dropped me down, "Thanks Chad,"

"Your daughter is laying over here," he mentioned with a wave, "And? She won't remember," Troy, said with a simple shrug, I laughed going back over to her, "Why are you half dressed?"

"Well Gabi called me saying Emma was going to roll over and I was putting pants on so this is what you got as I came running out here."

"Em's rolled over?"

"That's not the question you asked," Troy said with a glance, I shook my head and put Emma back on her belly only for her to cry out. "Alright, alright, enough of belly time."

I picked her up and she held her head up to look at Chad, "Hey there beautiful," Chad took her hand and played with it. I gave a sigh as Troy returned with a pair of slacks and a pair of dress pants on. "Alright, I'm leaving. I'll see you all at the stadium," he announced.

He came over to steal Emma from me, he cradled her and she giggled as she pulled on his tie. "Yes, naughty," Troy laughed as he kissed her forehead, when she came back to me, he kissed my lips and then my forehead. "I think Emma is old enough to stay in the same room in Liam right?"

I rolled my eyes, "Alright Bolton, get a grip," he laughed as he ran his fingers through my curly hair. "I'll see you guys later."

"Good luck tonight babe!"

"Thanks,"

Troy disappeared behind the door and Chad gave me a look, "You two act like teenagers,"

"We like to have sex!" I proclaimed, "Is that a problem?"

"You already have two kids…how many more do you need?" he asked with a pointed look, I rolled my eyes and I returned to the bedroom. "Let's get ready baby girl," I whispered to her.

Liam was still napping and Emma was probably in need to eat as I glanced at the clock. I settled in the bed as I fed her for an hour and then I changed into a pair of skinny jeans with a Knicks t-shirt, Troy's name labeled on the back with fourteen.

My hair went into a knot on the top of my head and I skipped makeup for the evening. I changed Emma into a pair of leggings with an oversized shirt that made it look like a dress. I rolled the sleeves up and put on a pair of purple socks.

I finished with a little bow in her hair as she was falling asleep. I kissed the top of her head as I laid her in her cars eat, buckling her in so she didn't have to be moved later. I put a blanket over her as I then went into Liam's room, he was up but he was rubbing his eyes.

"Alright little man, we have to get ready to go okay?"

"Okay," he said, his head rested in the crook of my neck and I kissed him softly.

"Alright, let's introduce our starting line up…" the crowd rose to their feet and bounced around excited. Liam clapped his hands together as the room went dark and lights began to flash around. Liam loved to watch as his eyes danced around looking at everything.

"The height of 6'7, at center, Owen Berkley!" the crowd cheered as he ran through the hoop of cheerleaders and slapping teammates hands, "The height of 7'0, power forward, Jake Anderson,"

The crowd was energetic tonight, loud and obnoxious. "The height of 6'6, point guard, Troy Bolton!" The lights moved faster as Troy appeared, he looked zoned, tight, as he slapped teams hands and moved around, he waited in the line as the next two were called up.

"The height of 6'7, at shooting guard, Antonio Carmel,"

"And finally, at the height of 6'6 small forward, Davis Jones!" the Knicks all rounded up as the played a video on the scoreboard.

"Its time," Troy's voice moved through the stadium as Liam glanced up with a fast look. "To win," Davis finished, the play shots throughout the year and many of Troy after his move here in December.

The games they won, the crowd that helped, and the fun they had. A cheer erupted through the stadium as it went black and a song began to play as they lights flipped back on. The stands were full and pumped, Liam was a giggly mess, and Troy had already shed his warm-ups as they all gathered around.

Troy's hair was short again; he had it cut early this morning. It looked good and I could not wait to run my fingers through it.

"So," Troy whispered, I rolled over and he grinned, "You love to make it interesting, that's for sure," Troy laughed as he kissed me, his legs wrapping through mine. "We sure do," I smiled as I wrapped my arms around his neck; he kissed me as I ran my fingers through his hair. I smiled as I had been imagining that all night. He grinned as his eyes flickered. "I love you Brie,"

"I love you too,"

"Come on a walk with me," he said sitting up quickly, I looked at him as if he was nuts, "It's one in the morning," he shrugged, "I'm not tired,"

I laughed as I looked at him, "Where are we going on a walk too?"

"Will you just trust me and come on?" I rolled my eyes as I got out of bed. I found a jacket as Troy grabbed my hand and we went down to the floor. Troy's fingers grasped mine, as we were both quiet on the walk around the city. The lights still shining and big and bright, the beautiful lights but I couldn't look up and see stars.

"Why are we walking?" I asked leaning into Troy, "Because," he stopped and he looked at me, "I miss having time with just you," I gave a faint smile, "I think we just had time together,"

"That night? Yea we did, but when is the last time that it was just me and you?" I shrugged, "I don't know, it's probably been since that night." Troy smiled softly, "Exactly," his arms wrapped around my waist and he kissed me gently. "It's been crazy lately and I have to wrap my mind around everything."

"You never told me about the thing with Aaron," I mentioned softly, Troy shrugged, "It was nothing,"

I studied his face and I nodded, "If that's your story,"

"It is I wish it was more but it wasn't." I sighed as I leaned in to him, "I love you Troy,"

"I love you too Gabs," he stopped in front of a building and he pulled me into it, I tried to catch a look at the name but Troy moved me too fast. We walked into the lobby as he glanced around, he then directed me to an elevator, "Troy," I hissed, "Where the hell are we,"

"Relax," he whispered back, I felt my shoulders roll back at the words as Troy pressed the top button. I looked at him and he grinned, the grin that made my knees weak. "Just wait," he said softly, once the elevator dinged, Troy looked at me, "Close your eyes," I looked at him and he nodded, "Close them," he instructed, I sighed and I did, Troy then picked me up as I laughed.

"Keep them shut,"

We were back outside as the wind whipped across my face. I took a breath as Troy then moved me until I was standing up again. "Open them,"

I did as I sucked in the air around me. I did a small circle and he laughed, "I thought you might like this," I covered my mouth and I nodded, "I have been working on this for a while, I mean, somebody in New York had to have something like this and I came across a meaningless building and I found it," he sighed, "It looks almost identical," I whispered, I sank down on a nearby bench.

"That's what I thought," he sat down next to me as I glanced up and the stars were all sitting there, as we were high above most of the buildings. "The roof-top garden," I said, Troy nodded, "The roof top garden,"

I grinned as I crawled into Troy's lap to kiss him, "I love you, I love it, I love everything." Troy smiled as he kissed me, "I thought you might enjoy my one in the morning walk a little better,"

I pulled on his hand as we lay on the top of the building; I curled into his side as we watched the stars glow around us. The summer months inviting us as I grinned, "If I lay here, if I just lay here, would lie with me and just forget the world?" I whispered he smiled as he turned to me. "I think I can do that," he whispered as we rested against each other.

Suddenly carefree, everything I had missed came crashing back within a few moments. "When did Emma eat last?" Troy asked after a while, "Right before you came in," Troy smiled as he nuzzled my cheek.

"Good,"

"How long had you been planning this?" I asked him, "I don't know, a long time."

"Show me our garden that's bursting into life," I whispered, "Let's waste time, chasing cars," Troy laughed in my ear, "You love that song,"

"That song describes us in every moment,"

"I know,"

"I love you Troy Bolton,"

"I love you too Gabriella Montez," he looked at me with his beautiful blue and intense eyes. I melted as our lips meet, my breath being taken away as he let his warm lips move over mine.

They couldn't win away from their home.

The crowd into Madison Square Garden was intense as we climbed into the stadium through the player entrance. Emma and Liam were in the stroller as tonight was game seven, the series tied at three a piece as it was a nail biting series the whole way though. My stomach turned at the thought of Troy being so close but not being able to grab it.

My stomach was knotted up since the beginning of this morning. After Troy took me home after our late night trip to the roof top garden, we had been perfect, smiles at each other and just being together, being we again.

Emma cried as the noise became louder, we were sitting closer to the floor tonight since it was the last game. We were still in the player's section but I wanted quick access to the floor tonight, win or lose.

Troy was going to be devastated if they lost tonight. Over the past four days, the calls with Aaron were long and quiet. I didn't know what they were about but I was going to force it out of Troy tonight.

I needed to know.

I wanted to know.

I had a right to know.

Letting out a warm sigh, I shook my head. "Right here Mrs. Bolton," I nodded, "Thanks," I got Emma and Liam out as I settled them; I then folded up the stroller which was taken to the clubhouse for me.

"These are awesome seats," Chad exclaimed, "This is basically where I always sit," Taylor told him, "I know, I have the best seat though," Chad kissed her cheek as I laughed, "Gabi!" Jenni hopped down as I gave her a hug, "Hi!"

Carson trailed her and they all found seats. A lot of his family was here tonight; I mean the whole lower level had to be family and friends to all of the Knicks and Spurs. Troy was warming up as Liam spotted him and pointed with a big smile.

"I know we have to cheer for daddy extra hard tonight because tonight is the last game." Liam turned his head towards me, "Daddy come home?" I smiled with a nod, "For a little while," I whispered kissing the top of his head.

"Okay," he smiled as he tried to gain Troy's attention but Troy was very focused. We settled into our seats as they did the video again and the call outs of names. The game began with a simple blow of a whistle.

Troy fought for the ball as he tossed it off to Owen.

Owen dribbled the ball for a moment and then passed it off. This was how most of the first quarter was going, as it was a narrow lead for the Spurs the entire time. The cheerleaders were in full force and excited.

The fans were hot and ready for a win in New York. Beers were being sold all around and Chad even had one, I needed one to calm my nerves. I looked at Emma who was sleeping through most of it. I had a badge around my neck that allowed me to join Troy on the court when they won, if they won. Jack, Jenni, and Liam all had one.

He only had four and those were his four.

I played with the edge as I decided to wear a purple dress tonight with a white jacket and black heels. Which Troy enjoyed since I was going out tonight for a celebration…again if they won, so much was riding on just a few quarters of basketball.

"Mrs. Bolton," I turned to see an usher, "Yes?"

"Mr. Bolton requested you to come into the locker room for a minute during half time," I raised my eyebrows, "Alright,"

"Come right this way," I turned to Lucille and Taylor who waved me on, "I didn't know they could do this," I whispered as I walked away, the Knicks were losing by three as I walked into the locker room with an usher. He stopped so I could be at Troy's locker.

I sat down as I spun around it for a minute, my mind wondered to why Troy needed me. I then heard the noise of all of them entering. I turned around as Troy looked at me, he pointed to a room as I got up and he grabbed my hand, he shut a door as he paced for a minute. I stayed quiet as he turned to me panic filled his eyes.

"Hey," I directed his attention to my eyes as I brought him close. "Take a breath," he did as instructed and I wrapped my arms around his neck. "I'm nervous, I'm freaking out on the court and I can't be doing that,"

I gave him a patient look as he muttered about something else. "Stop," he looked at me, "Take another breath and relax," he did as told and I pulled his chin towards me, "You are fine, that out there," I pointed and then I relaxed my hand against his chest, "Is just another basketball game. It's just another moment in your backyard where you are playing with the guys or even when you are just playing with Liam. It's just a game you love. Go out there, play hard, and remember these moments because you don't know when you are going to get them again."

His eyes focused on mine as I looked at him intently, "Nothing mattes on that court Troy, the only thing that matters is that you have fun, that you play hard, that you are a leader. If you don't win oh well, if you win, that's fantastic. Forget about losing and winning and just play."

His breathing clamed as he looked at me with a small smile hinting on his face, "Thanks," he mentioned, "I am nervous of screwing up,"

"So stop thinking about it, just play," Troy took a deep breath and he rested his forehead against me, "Thank you,"

"If you need a second, just remember, our place where it's just you and me." Troy gave me a small grin as he hugged me and kissed me, "Thank you,"

"You're welcome, now go kick some ass," I winked and Troy smiled, "I will,"

I left the locker room and took my seat as I settled back in, "Is he okay?" Lucille asked, "He just needed to be reminded of what this really is," I told her, "That's all,"

I leaned forward in my chair as Troy had come our on fire. He played flawlessly for most of the third quarter giving the Knicks a five-point lead into the fourth quarter. I pushed my sweaty palms onto my dress to make them dry, which didn't last long.

Troy fought off a player as he went in for the shot. It circled the room and went in, the crowd roared with excitement and everybody was on their feet for the last three minutes of the game. I nervously chewed on my fingers nails, Taylor kept swatting my hand but I was so nervous.

Troy would flicker a glance up to me every so often, a smile played at his lips and I grinned. With a full minute left on the clock, I watched as we only had a narrow lead, a two-point lead.

The Spurs grabbed the ball and they took a fast shot and it sailed through the net. "Shit," I whispered, the game was suddenly tied up and I felt my stomach knot. Troy's face fell and a timeout was called.

I watched him as he closed his eyes, taking deep breaths in and out to control his breathing again. His eyes opened only to show determination, they had thirty seconds with the ball, they had to make those thirty seconds count.

Troy passed the ball in as they set up a play to just pass the ball around for fifteen seconds. It was working as the clock ticked, the ball landed in Troy's hands as he went up for a shot for it to be deflected. Troy cursed as he spun on his heel to get the ball back but they went up for a fast two points.

My eyes went to the clock as they only had seven seconds on the clock. My stomach knotted tighter as Mike still had a time-out. He called it as the boys gathered together; I closed my eyes taking in deep breaths.

The whistle blew again as they lined up in a certain pattern. Troy passed the ball in as he moved to the opposite side of the court.

Owen passed the ball back to Troy as Troy took two steps in the paints and three out.

Two seconds were left on the clock as Troy let the ball fly. I felt all the air escape my body as the ball spun in the air, it bounced on the rim as it went back up, the buzzer echoed through the stadium and we watched as the ball moved in a circle before landing through the net. Screams erupted through the stadium as the Knicks bombed the court, I screamed as I reached for Liam who was jumping up and down, "Come on little man,"

He laughed as we were let onto the court; Jack and Jenni close behind us as the crowd was becoming huge. Purple and white streamers were raining down as Liam looked up and giggled I pushed through people as I was trying to find Troy.

"Go to your left!" Jack shouted I nodded as I turned to my left and Troy was scanning the crowd until we found each other. He broke out into a huge grin as he ran over picking Liam and I both up spinning us around.

"You did it!" I laughed, Troy grinned at me and Liam was dying to just touch Troy. Troy set us down and Liam was in Troy's arms giving him that hug, "Good job daddy," Troy was choked up as he leaned against Liam, hats were being passed around, one landed on Troy's head and another on mine and Liam's. I laughed as Troy gave his dad Liam before being me in a crashing hug.

"It was just you and me," he whispered, I smiled as I kissed him. "You did amazing." His eyes sparkled but they were calling for Troy, "Wait for me okay? I have something I need to tell you," I nodded as he kissed me again; I held onto his jersey, he hugged Jenni and his dad, giving thumbs up to the rest of them.

Troy was being called to the team as we stood back with other bystanders. Liam was back into my arms as they were passing around the trophy and Troy held it up. T-shirts were tossed everywhere for people to wear and the laughter that rang in the stadium and the excitement that made it bright.

My stomach released the knots as Troy was smiling, his eyes held a sparkle like I have seen all the time. Any time he was with Liam or Emma, when he held me or talked to me, those moments when he was the happiest he could be.

I felt a tear fall out of my eye, "Mommy! Don't be sad! Daddy won!" I looked at Liam and I shook my head, a smile growing over my face, "It's a happy tear," I told him, Liam turned his head, "It's a very happy tear," I told him with a laugh, they called everybody to the stage area for the trophy presentation.

They announced the starters and everybody who played, the coach gave a speech and then they were announcing the MVP.

"This years, MVP, goes to Troy Bolton," Troy looked shocked as he went up next to his coach, Troy laughed as he looked out, his eyes then found me with a soft twinkle. "Wow, I can't believe it, I just have to thank Coach Mike here and all of these guys who worked their butts off all season. I came here in December and was welcomed in this city with more than I thought." Troy paused, "and then I wanted to win, we went to win, we all did. We made it through these last few weeks together and we couldn't have done it without my team."

The crowd applauded, "I also have to thank my family for being here with me through these crazy weeks and celebrating with me now. A huge thanks to my wife Gabi," his eyes found mine and he smiled, "I couldn't have even done this without her this year, she was incredible, strong, and she reminds me what this really is. To take it all in because you never know when you will be back, she has to be the best ever and to my kids Emma and Liam, who I love to the planet and back. But mostly, these fans, I love you all!"

Troy stepped back as a few other players spoke and there was another thing of confetti that fell over all of us. I laughed as Troy came back over, people began to thin out and Troy gave me a bright smile, "Liam," Liam turned to Troy, "Remember what I told you?" he nodded and he looked at me, "Mommy we are going home!" he announced with a big grin, I smiled, "I knew that,"

Troy shook his head, "No, we are going home, we are staying home," I eyed him as he grinned, he came closer as he wrapped his arms around me, his lip pressed close to my ear, "I'm a Laker again,"

I felt my eyes go wide as I felt tears rushing my eyes, I looked at him as he laughed, "Shut up!" he shook his head, "No, that's what Aaron and I have been doing, we found a coach, I destroyed that program and I am bring it back up, we are going back home Gabs, together,"

I laughed as I hugged Troy, "I can't believe this." Troy smiled, "It was only going to happen though if I won and that's why I was so nervous out there, every time, I couldn't lose because I need to be close to you."

I shook my head as tears spilled down my cheeks; I gave Jenni Liam as I hugged Troy. He held me in his arms, "I have to be with you," I felt tears fall off my cheeks, "Damn it Troy Bolton," he smiled as he wiped my tears away.

"Don't be sad mommy! We are going home!"

Liam's words made me smile and Troy laughed, "Yea mommy, we are going home."

I hugged him tighter as Lucille came onto the court with Emma, Troy took her in his arms as we then posed for a family picture, I wrapped around Troy, Liam in my arms, and Troy held Emma as we smiled, a family.

I felt choked up as Lucille and Jack joined us, along with Jenni and Mason. We held up number one fingers and Troy looked at me, his eyes twinkled and I burst out into laughter. Then we all did, as I couldn't have been happier.

Chad embraced Troy in a hug as I looked at them, "So are you going to stay?" Troy asked him, Chad nodded in a grin, "Duh, we are the Laker Boys," Troy laughed as he kissed my forehead.

"This is perfect," I whispered to him, "This is now beyond perfect," he responded, he kissed me again and I held onto him. "I can't believe you,"

"I wasn't going to get your hopes up,"

"Well," Troy laughed as we held hands, we then began to walk into the clubhouse as everybody was thinning out. Liam held on to Troy as Emma was against my shoulder. Our hands linked together…forever.

That's it! It's over. My Laker Boys was so much fun to write! I love Liam and Emma, they are amazing and so adorable. I understand where you are coming from. Give me a little bit on getting the little one shots out about them growing up and stuff, so be patient! They will be coming! I love you guys and all of the reviews you gave me, it really keeps me going. You guys are the best! The fourth story will most likely be the last and I will be sad once it's over. But let's smile because it's going to be a long one probably! I hope you'll all love it as much as I am loving it!

Love you again! Next Week will be the debut of My Laker Bravery! Yay!

Please Review…one last time please! :)