Chapter 16 – Thankful
Monday, November 8th, 2021
Gabi's POV
I read through my notes and I scanned them again as I had a big test tomorrow morning. The house was dark as Troy was already asleep upstairs. We had moved into our house at the beginning of August and it had been the best move for both of us. I had more privacy and quietness to study and while I worked night shifts it was dark during the day and no loud college kids around. Troy and I spent the first-month having sex in every single room and making this place ours. We decorated together, we laughed as we made decisions, and we created a budget.
It slowly took me a few weeks to completely unpack the house but with help from Troy and my parents we got it done eventually. I rubbed my eyes with my hand while I took off my glasses. I felt him behind me before his hands touched my shoulders. "B, baby, come to bed," he whispered into my ear. I shook my head, "I have my test tomorrow," the stress echoed from my voice but his lips pressed behind my ear and then down my neck. "You are going to fall asleep during your test if you don't get a little bit of sleep. You are going to be a doctor, I know you know, that sleep is important for the brain."
His large hands rubbed my arms gently and I leaned back into his body. "Please, come to bed for a few hours." I finally just nodded my head as I stood up, he pulled me into his hard body and kissed the top of my head. "I love our big bed but I love it more when you are in it." He tipped my chin backward and he smiled down at me. "I love you," he whispered. "Please come back to bed with me." I nodded my head as he took my hand and lead me upstairs.
Troy finished the season with the Bulls in early September and finished rehabbing his hand. He was already doing a lot better and going to work every single day. He was in love with work and I was happy to see him happy. I rubbed my lips together and he let a smile tug on the corner of his lips before descending his lips onto mine. His fingers cupping my face as he then gently pulled me up while I wrapped my legs around his waist.
"This will also do." He whispered pressing me up against a wall, his fingers gripping my waist while I locked my arms around his neck. The kiss didn't stop as he moved us into the bedroom before resting me on my back. "Do you know, in a month, you'll be my wife?" he whispered into my ear causing goosebumps to trail down my arms. The wedding was booked, our place picked, and everybody who was coming was excited. We had about fifty people coming to Costa Rica to celebrate our vows to each other and I was excited.
Yet, we had a lot to get through first and that included Thanksgiving, finals, and my final dress fitting. The dress was damn beautiful and I couldn't wait for Troy Bolton to see me in it. "Are you excited to finally go back to Seaside for Thanksgiving?" I asked him as he rolled off of me. "Yea, I really am but first I want you." He kissed down my face, my collarbone, and then down my chest. I could barely breathe as he pushed his hand up my skin.
"Troy," I breathed out in response, my entire body exhausted but so excited for him. His fingers brushed over my underwear and then his fingers dipped below. I moaned as he finally shifted his fingers to slid in. "Troy," I moaned his name louder as he growled into my ear. He pulled on my shorts and underwear before ditching them. His fingers going in and out roughly until he had me spiraling over the edge.
"That's it, baby, come for me," I gripped onto him as he put a condom on and then slid right into me. I wrapped my legs around his waist to pull him closer to me and he breathed out roughly, "Fuck, B, you feel so damn good."
He moved in and out with ease, his lips pulling mine into a kiss, "I love you," he whispered into my ear and I cried out my own love right back to him.
Wednesday, November 10th, 2021
Troy's 24th Birthday
Troy's POV
"Happy Birthday," Grey said, "You are getting old, you motherfucker." I couldn't stop my laugh, "Says the guy who is older than me." I countered. "Any big plans today?" Grey asked. I smiled, "Yea, spending time with my girl. I'm going to cook dinner tonight after she is done at the hospital."
"I bet she is upset she can't do it for you." I sighed, "Yea, she was upset last night but she rewarded me this morning before she left." Grey barked out a laugh. "You lucky bastard." We both shared a laugh as I switched topics on him.
"Did you get your final fit?" I asked Grey as I walked to the car, "Yes, dude, relax. You know how much shit I had to pull to getaway in the middle of the season?" Grey asked me, I grimaced, "Sorry, I didn't mean to do it right in the middle of your busy season my dude, our seasons are opposite though." Grey chuckled, "That's why you're going to have to do some serious pleading to be at mine in June." I laughed and nodded as I slid into my car.
"I already put it in with the boss. I did go to Europe during the season," I reminded him. Grey grumbled from the other end of the phone. "How is Gabi? Getting excited?" I smiled thinking of my brown hair, brown-eyed beauty. "I think so. She's so busy with school and her clinical rotation. She's either at the hospital or studying for her two classes she has on Friday. She's swamped with work but I am proud of her."
"It's wild to think a few years ago we were just two dudes playing basketball and now we're two dudes about to get married." I laughed, "Yea, that's a little scary in my honest opinion and next we'll be two dudes about to be fathers." Grey made a choking noise on the other end of the phone. "Fuck, Bolton, give me a few more years. Damn." I smiled, "It's wild that a year ago a lot of shit was different." I pushed out a breath of air.
"Yea, I'm glad it's all different now."
"I bet. You two were not heading for a good place."
"We were not." I agreed with him. I drove back to the apartment as Gabi was in clinical all day and I planned on cooking her dinner for when she got home. It might have been my birthday but I wanted to only spend it with her. Her test was yesterday and it went well. She was also starting to prepare for her first board test and she was a nervous wreck for it already. Next year, she had to dedicate to ten months of research with the Duke medical team. "Hey man, I gotta go. Let me know if you need me to do anything else. I'm sorry we can't do a big bachelor party."
"I told you, I'm flying to Chicago and we're going to do what we can." I reminded him. "Even if that is just a game watching the Chicago Bears," Grey laughed, "I'll see what I can do. Talk to you soon, promise," I smiled, "Talk soon,"
Going home, I walked up the stairs to our townhome and through the door. I was so glad I could convince her to go for this place. It was such a beautiful place and she made it even better with the homey touches. It was missing from my apartment and I was glad that we finally had it. I dropped my bag on the kitchen table and went into the kitchen to see what we needed. We flew out to Seaside in just a few weeks and I was happy to go home.
To see Jake and Audrey.
To spend time with Gabi in my favorite town. I already planned for us to spend a day in Portland together. I wanted to be selfish and steal her for an entire week. I wanted to not share her with a damn soul. If I had my way – I would lock us both in a cabin and lock the goddamn door. We didn't have enough time together and this was our chance. A long flight across the country and then a week in Seaside…it sounded like a damn dream.
Only if I could get out of staying at my parents' house because I wanted to have so much sex with her. I wanted to have loud, obnoxious sex with her but having sex in my childhood bedroom…that also didn't sound half bad either. My phone buzzed on the counter as it was Brooklyn calling. I scrunched my eyebrows up and answered the call. "Brooklyn, is everything okay?" I questioned as I did my last survey before grabbing my keys.
"First, Happy Birthday!" I smiled, "Thank you," I told her with a tiny smile on my face. "I have a wedding question though, and since Gabi is in the middle of clinical – I figured I would ask you. You might have an answer." I nodded as I leaned back against the counter, "Okay," I said with a slow nod, "The hotel called and all of your rooms that you blocked off have been reserved. Everybody that is going has RSVP'd and I have made contact with people who didn't respond. They are wanting to know if you want to add more rooms to the block or not? They need an answer today."
I shifted my weight, "How many people haven't responded?" I asked, "Only a handful. This would factor in your food and seating if we add more blocks." I sighed as I ran a hand through my hair. "Yes, add them. Do we still have December 1st to let them go?" I questioned back, "Yes, you do. I'll make sure to release them on the 1st so you aren't stuck with the bill." I smiled, thankful, "Okay, anything else?"
"Nope. They confirmed the DJ, buffet, dance floor, seating arrangements, and I heard back from the photographer today. She is all set for the day. Did you get your suit?"
"Yes ma'am, I got it yesterday. I talked with Grey, Jake, Trevor, Raven, and Will all have their suits as well." I could feel Brooklyn's grin through the phone, "Good. I'm glad all of this is coming together." She laughed through the other end of the phone. "Brook, I can't thank you enough for handling so much of this. I know Gabi and I are both so thankful. Let me know if you need anything else. I'm starting to not have nearly as much work."
"Of course, Troy. I'm just glad Gabi is allowing me to help to be honest. I was always afraid she was going to be too head-strong to allow me this opportunity." I smirked, "That does sound like Gabi," I mused, "I think she's just too busy to not delegate." Brook laughed from the other end of the phone. "I know. I'll call you with any more questions."
"Thanks, Brooke."
I grabbed my wallet and keys as I went back to my car to make sure Gabi had a good dinner tonight.
Gabi's POV
My body slumped over the wheel as I spent all day running around with a group of doctors but this one was special – because I loved it. I loved every minute of it. It was an orthopedic surgery group and it was amazing. We were rounding on patients that were in the hospital and I was even able to watch surgery from another. One of the doctors was a sports medicine and I loved it. I loved talking to athletes and hearing how the surgeon was going to improve their chances of coming back.
I stayed an extra two hours to just talk with the doctors and learn more. I was fascinated. I sent a few apology texts to Troy but he was only the most supportive person and told me to stay longer. It was his birthday and I apologized profusely and continuously because I did want to spend today with him but I didn't know how long I would get this opportunity I had right now. I drove from the hospital to our home which was only about fifteen minutes. Once I pulled into the garage, I shut the door, and got out I walked into the kitchen from the garage. I quickly smelled food as I inhaled deeply, I looked up to see my fiancé cooking at the stove.
He turned around and those blue eyes hit me, a smile spreading over his lips, and he winked. "Hey beautiful, go take a shower and then dinner will be ready." Troy's voice was so soothing as I bit down on my lip. I walked forward and wrapped my arms around his waist, "Happy Birthday, baby, I am so sorry that I wasn't home sooner to celebrate. We'll do something this weekend." I murmured into his chest. Troy chuckled and brushed his hand down my hair. "Please don't worry about it, B. I'm just happy to have you home with me tonight. Thanks for the updates though, I wanted to make sure you had a hot meal tonight. It was helpful." I laughed while I buried my face into his back. "I love you," he put down the spoon and turned around to wrap me into his arms. "I love you, too. Go take a shower." He shoved me gently and I laughed.
I went upstairs and I gladly took a fifteen-minute shower before pulling on a pair of leggings with one of Troy's t-shirts. I went back downstairs as Troy was pouring a glass of wine for the two of us as our dinner was set at the table with steam rolling off. He was amazing. Troy looked up and one of those boyish grins crossed his face. "You look tired but very beautiful," I couldn't stop my laugh as I took the wine glass from him and then stole a kiss.
"How was your day?" I asked tilting my chin back to rest on his chest to look at him. He smiled, "C'mon, let's eat while the food is actually hot." He took me by the hand to the table as we both settled in to eat. "My day?" Troy questioned, "It was uneventful. I worked with Hanson for a long while about next season and how to do bigger and better promotions, I talked to Grey for a little bit, and then your mom called asking for some wedding details." I felt my smile widen, "Yea? Did you have all the answers?" Troy shrugged his shoulders. "It was mostly about everybody booking a room and if we wanted to block anymore."
"Oh, good, I'm glad people are coming," Troy shot me a look, "Did you think people weren't going to come? You're loved." I rolled my eyes with a smile. "Tell me more about your day. Sounds like you had a lot more fun than I did today." I felt a smile beam over my lips. "Troy, it was the absolute coolest day. I was on the orthopedic unit and I trailed a sports medicine orthopedist and it was amazing. Treating athletes, I observed surgery, observed injections, it was amazing. I loved it."
Troy smiled looking over at me, "Yea?" I nodded my head as I took a big bite of food. "Yes, it was magical. It was…everything. I loved learning about the injuries that different athletes are more prone to get and I watched an ACL repair surgery today. Troy, I think it's what I want to do." Troy reached over and squeezed my hand gently, "If that's your passion, B, baby, then go for it." I cleared my throat as I took a deep breath, "I just am scared because it's a big commitment. I would have to do my five years of an orthopedic residency and then an extra year for sports medicine…It's going to be a long time before I'm done and I don't want to keep moving us around and…" I began to babble but Troy reached over and pressed his finger to my lips.
"Gabi, if this is what you think you want – then you need to do it. You need to go for it because I haven't seen you this excited in a long time. All of the other clinical you've come home from you were just meh but you have a sparkle in your eye. You have excitement in your voice. You wanted to stay longer. If this is it, baby, this is it. I know you have time to decide but I want you to know that you have my full support."
I blinked away tears as I stood up and I wrapped my arms around his neck. He hugged me tightly back, "I want you to be happy and we're going to make it work. Once you're in residency at least you'll be making some money. I know it's not a lot but it's something. I'll continue to work and hey…maybe one day I'll just be the stay at home dad." He winked at me and I laughed, "I'll gladly be your sugar momma," I teased kissing him softly.
Troy chuckled against my lips and I hugged him tightly, "I love you; I might change my mind but I just…I am loving this one. I get to go back tomorrow and I want to learn and do so much more." He kissed my temple, gave me his earth-shattering smile, and squeezed my hand. "Eat, please," he said and I smiled as we both dove into our meals. I was really excited about our future but I was really content with right now.
We shared a smile over our dinner and my stomach erupted with butterflies as if we were teenagers falling in love for the first time.
Monday, November 22nd, 2021
Seaside, OR
Troy's POV
Raven, Will, Tommy, Gabi, and I all sat in a booth at my dad's restaurant as we were eating food and laughing together. I dipped my fries into ketchup as I plucked them into my mouth. Gabi rested her head on my shoulder as I squeezed her hand. We flew in early this morning and I knew she was tired but we were trying to cram a lot into a little amount of time. "Gabi, I'm sorry I can't make it to the wedding. If Troy would have given me a little bit more notice about the proposal and quick wedding…I wouldn't have scheduled our big family vacation that week in Europe."
Gabi sent a smile, "It's okay. We know you'll be there in spirit." I squeezed her closer to my body, "Look, it was her that decided on the quick wedding. Not me." I pointed out and Gabi laughed with a smile, "Yea, I did. I didn't want the wedding hanging over me while I'm in the middle of the school. Plus, a trip to Costa Rica during winter break sounds amazing." Raven smirked, "Hell yea, it does. Do you think I can find some hot girls?"
Gabi looked up at me and I shrugged, "I'm not sure how many single girls we are inviting. Lauren is engaged, Viv is married, Jade?" I questioned with a glance in Gabi's direction. She hummed a laugh, "Yea, she's single, Brooke is single as well," Gabi teased him, "All basketball players." I shot over and Raven grinned, "That I can work with." He scrubbed his hands together with a laugh. "Will, how is Jessica?" Gabi asked Will smiled from ear to ear, "Amazing, she's in the middle of her first-year teaching in the high school and she's loving it."
"I'm sad she couldn't make it tonight." Gabi gave off a pout and I smiled as I pressed my lips into her hair. God, I couldn't wait to get her in a bed. "Gabi, how is med school?" Tommy asked her, "Good! I think I may have found my specialty even though it's a little early." Her cheeks flushed and her eyes brightened with happiness. "Oh, yea? What is it?" Raven took a long slurp of his milkshake and a laugh bubbled from her throat. "Sports Medicine – maybe even a surgeon."
"She will be a surgeon." I corrected. "Damn, Bolton, and you? Stay at home dad?" Will joked and I smirked, "Maybe. Eventually, one day. If that makes our lives a little bit easier then I'll do it. I can probably do something from home." Gabi squeezed my leg and I smiled, "I think it's about time for us to leave boys," I began and they all began to protest. "Bolton, you're barely in town at all this week. Stop being a pussy and stay." Raven shot over and Will nodded his head in agreement.
Tommy was checking his watch and I smiled, "C'mon, it's been a long day for us. It's three hours later in our little brains and I am exhausted." I bargained. Will snorted, "Shut up, you're fine. You've pulled more all-nighters than anybody I know. You are the one who lives all the way in North Carolina."
"You know you are all more than welcome." I said with a shrug, "Plus, with our new house we have more room than ever." I threw my hands out for effect but Will just rolled his eyes. "Enough for all three of us?" he asked, "Yes, you might have to share a bed but yes." Will gave me a smile while my dad popped out from the kitchen. He smiled looking at our table as I could only assume it brought back memories for him. All of us would sit here late at night chatting and I knew my parents loved it because they knew we were staying out of trouble.
"Troy, did you hear Hallie got engaged to Vincent?" I swung my head around to look at Tommy, "Shut up? Vincent Williams?" Tommy smirked and nodded his head up and down. "I told you he always had a thing for her in high school," I smirked shaking my head back and forth. "Hallie never gave him the time of day in high school. If he even looked at her, she would sneer at him." I couldn't stop my laugh as I scrubbed my face. "Wow, as long she is happy. That's all that matters to me." My eyes glanced down at Gabi whose eyes were getting heavy. "I've got my happiness right here,"
She let a tired smile cross her face, "I love you, too," she whispered back up to me. "Seriously, we don't fly out till Saturday. We can all go out together on Friday night." I suggested, "It's been a really long day for us and she's halfway asleep right here." Raven shifted his eyes over to me and laughed, "Yea, you should get her to bed. Maybe fuck her too." I rolled my eyes deeply, while Gabi laughed, "He says I can't be quiet to fuck in his house."
"Gabi," I scolded with a laugh. She smirked and squeezed my thigh, "Troy, they know we're having sex." I grumbled, "Doesn't mean we need to advertise it to my father's customers." I cheered back and she smiled while sliding out of the booth. "Troy," I turned to my dad as he came out of the kitchen again. "Are you leaving?" I nodded my head, "Yea, I'm out of here. Gabi's half asleep," Gabi shoved me, "I'm not asleep."
My dad laughed, "That is definitely Troy falling asleep." I rolled my eyes as Gabi hooked her arm into mine. "Tell your mom I'm heading out of here." I nodded as I dragged Gabi's hand into mine and out into the car. Her hand warmed mine as the chilly wind hit us as we walked out. We crawled into the car and I looked over at her, "Thanks for hanging out tonight." She smiled and I leaned over to kiss her. My hand cradling her face.
"I love it. It was fun. I'd be more than happy to go out with you on Friday if you want me too. If not, Audrey wanted a movie night." I looked over at her while I navigated back towards the house. "I think tomorrow we can do a movie night with Audrey. There is no way you are leaving my side. I don't ever get this much time with you." She sent a smile in my direction as I turned the radio on low. Once I pulled into the driveway, I looked over to see her sleeping.
A smile spread over my lips as I stroked her leg gently. I got out of the car and went over to unbuckle her seatbelt and gently pulled her out of my mom's car. I cradled her in my arms as I walked through the garage and into the house as my mom was on her laptop on the counter.
"Oh no, did she not make it?" my mom laughed, I just gave a smile before I went to my room and rolled her into bed. She barely moved as I slipped off her shoes, jeans, and I left her in her hoodie. I tucked her into bed before I hopped down the stairs as Jake was leaning on the counter next to my mom. "Hey superstar," I said with a hip check. He laughed, "Gabi was exhausted," my mom observed. I nodded, "It's a really long flight and she runs herself into the ground back in North Carolina." I leaned against the counter while I breathed.
My mom rubbed my back with a smile on her face, "I'm glad you guys came here." I smiled over at her as I squeezed her arm, "I'm glad we were able to come out here. It's been crazy the past several weeks but it is very good to come and just be here."
"Are you excited to marry her?" Jake asked, I felt a lazy smile across my face and I nodded, "Yea, I am really excited to be her husband and do this together. I love her. She's my girl." Jake snorted, "I don't believe in that shit."
"Jake," my mom scolded and I shook my head, "No, no, it's something I didn't think was good until I met her. I never once thought that I wanted to marry Hallie, do different things for Hallie, or have kids with her but my god, I can't wait to marry her. I can't wait to have kids with her. I can't wait to do everything side by side with her." Jake smirked and shook his head. "Whatever you say, Troy. Whatever you say."
My mom gave me a supportive smile, "I know what you're saying honey, he'll get it eventually." We both laughed together as Jake grabbed water, rolled his eyes, and made it up the stairs to his room. "I love you, Troy. You should go get some rest though." I agreed with a nod. "I love you too, mom." I kissed her cheek before I grabbed a water, went upstairs, took off my jeans and t-shirt before I crawled into bed next to her.
I kissed the back of her head and pulled her flush against my chest. I breathed in her hair and her vanilla scent filtered in my nose. God, I did love this woman.
Gabi's POV
Tuesday, November 23rd, 2021
I rolled out of bed as I slipped on a pair of sweats with a t-shirt while I looked back at Troy who was still sleeping on his belly. I smiled at him before I went downstairs to find Jessie and Sam in the kitchen laughing over a cup of coffee. "Good morning," I cheered. They both looked up and gave me a bright smile. "Good morning, dear, did you sleep well?" I nodded my head, "Yea, I did." I poured a cup of coffee while I took a sip.
"Troy still asleep?" Sam asked, I nodded, "Yes, he's been working a lot more recently. I think because I have been as well." Jessie smiled, "How is your school year going?" I smiled wide, "Amazing, I love it. We're getting to do all of the clinical rotations and getting to know more and see more…it's amazing. I love it." Jessie grinned, "I'm so proud of you. Troy loves talking all about what you're doing when we talk. He mentioned something about orthopedic surgery?"
"Yes," I gushed. "I fell in love with it. Treating athletes, getting to do surgeries or other procedures in the office…I love it. It's amazing and I am very excited to pursue a few more shadow opportunities in the next few weeks by different doctors. I have an in with Duke's Sports Medicine doctor so I am going to shadow him and then a few other people." Sam smiled, "I think it would be your true calling. Sports and medicine. How Gabi,"
"I agree," Troy's rough morning voice echoed through the room as I twisted to see him. A lazy smile crossed his face as he was shirtless and his sweatpants were hanging a little low. I smiled over at him as he ran a hand through his hair and came over to kiss his mom's cheek and took a drink of his dad's coffee. "Hey!" Troy smirked into the cup and winked over at me. "Troy, make your dad another coffee." Jessie scolded and Troy just nodded his head while taking the mug over. He stopped by me and pulled me flush against his body and he pressed a kiss into my hair. The warmth that flooded my body made me want to curl into his body and just stay right there.
"Good morning, baby," he murmured into my ear. Goosebumps rolled down my arm and I smiled against his skin. "Good morning," I said as I tilted my head back as he blessed a kiss onto my lips and then went to finish the cup of coffee for his dad. "Troy, did you sleep okay?" his mom asked him as he poured in a tad bit of creamer into his dad's coffee. He knew how to make coffee with the best of him, I actually missed him working at Rents. "Yes, I did. I was exhausted and the pretty girl next to me helps." I rolled my eyes but I also couldn't stop the smile from working onto my lips. "Do you want to help around the restaurant today? I could use somebody on the coffee end." His dad bribed and Troy rolled his eyes but nodded his head, "Yea, I can. I did promise mom that I would help with some stuff around the house and Audrey and I have plans for a movie night tonight." Troy explained his plans to his parents and his dad nodded with grateful, "Just teach them to make better coffee. I want this to go over better than it is. If it goes well, I'd think about branching over to a coffee shop on the other side. A hip little place,"
I watched Troy's eyebrows bend together and his mind was racing with the idea in his mind. "It would be a smart business idea," Troy ventured carefully. "It would be a smart move for Seaside because the closest coffee shop is two towns over and it's Starbucks of all places. You could have a decent business but it has to be good and draw in the right crowd. You can't have your grandma club show up and play rummy all day in the center. That will run kids off." Sam raised an eyebrow towards his son as I laughed quietly to myself. "You've thought about this," I ventured carefully and Troy's eyes swung to mine, he shrugged, "A little bit. I loved working at Rents. The coffee shop vibe was fun and it is a good business idea for my dad." He shrugged his shoulders, "I might have to pick your brain some more. Maybe if you have time, we can work something out." The soft edge to Sam's voice made my heartache for Troy and Sam. Troy was a six-hour flight away from here. It wasn't an easy get-away and I knew there was no easy solution with my family in North Carolina.
Troy's eyes looked over at me for a beat and then back over to his dad. There was no easy solution for this right now or maybe ever. I didn't know where life was going to take me with residency. I didn't know where life was going to take me when I was interviewing for jobs. I didn't know what was next and I wish I could make this easier for Troy. "We'll work something out." Troy said, "I'd be more than happy to help you get the plans and everything worked out." Sam smiled as Troy went over and sat down next to his dad.
I went to sit next to Jessie as we talked about the wedding for a little bit as Troy talked about basketball and football with his dad. Troy and Sam both drank coffee and caught up with each other. I could hear their laughs and comments about different things. I loved his relationship with his parents and I hope one day we can find common ground in this country. I would love to split the distance, somewhere in the middle of the country even though…that doesn't sound like the beach and mountains. Jessie showed me the dress she had picked out for the wedding and I gushed over it restlessly. Jake and Audrey were still sleeping as we all took the time to catch up. Jessie ventured off into the wedding bridge and I was more than happy to talk about it.
I was excited about our wedding but I was also content right now. I loved the right now. I loved waking up in the same bed as my fiancé, I loved talking to his mom, and I loved just being near him. The burning feeling of just being near him, the excitement of his touch, the feeling of his rough fingers against my skin. Fuck, I had myself worked up just thinking about him. My eyes lifted to see Troy laughing over something on his phone as he showed his dad.
My eyes trained on him for so long he finally looked up and his blue eyes twinkled, a smile tugging on the corner of his lips, "Gabs," he said turning his head, I jumped snapping out of it and blinked, "Yea?" I questioned and he smirked, "You were looking at me." He reminded me. I huffed and shrugged, "Just thinking." Troy bit down on his lip and laughed before turning his attention back to his dad. I looked over at Jessie as I knew my cheeks were red.
Jessie gave me a supportive smile, threw her arms around my neck, and squeezed me into a hug. "Thank you for loving him as you do," she whispered. I closed my eyes and fought back the tears that were threatening to surface. "Thank you for not hating me for hurting him." Jessie pulled back in surprise and she shook her head, "No, sweetie, that brought you two together and made your relationship stronger. You have to work for a relationship and that was a test that you two needed. He loves you so much more."
I hugged her again, thankful that I actually loved my mother-in-law.
Troy's POV
"I saw the look," Gabi looked over her shoulder as she dug through the suitcase for whatever she was looking for. I leaned against the wall across from her as she was in a pair of leggings with a sweater, her hair piled up on the top of her head. "There was no look." She said with a huff of annoyance. I rolled my eyes, "You get that look anytime my parents mention something about needing my help here in Oregon. You know I don't want to live here." I reminded her.
She didn't say anything and pulled out a change of clothes because she was running to the store with my mom. "I know you don't want to live here but maybe a little closer than a six-hour flight across the country?" she questioned, her eyes right on me, and I felt the need to wiggle away from her stare. I wouldn't argue with that either. North Carolina was perfect but at the same time, it was a long way from my family.
"We can't go that far from your family plus…" I couldn't finish my sentence because I didn't have anything else. Our eyes connected again and I sighed, "Yea, would it be nice to be closer to my family in that sense? Yes, I have zero intentions of moving back to Oregon. I am never going to force you out of North Carolina though if you are happy closer to your family." Gabi rolled her eyes at that one, "Troy, I am going to have to move out of North Carolina for residency most likely. We can go somewhere in the middle of the country. Chicago, Dallas, Iowa…" she drug out and I laughed, "Iowa?" I questioned back.
She shrugged her shoulders, "I don't know Troy. I love seeing you with your parents. I want them to be closer to us. I want to be close to my family and the only thing I know is we have to go in the middle for that to happen. We will have to start a new life." I rolled my lips back and forth as I nodded, "This conversation is so premature." I whispered, "You brought up the look," Gabi pointed back out. I nodded, "I just wanted to remind you that I am happy with you. I don't care where I am in this country…I just want to be with you." She tried to fight off the smile but it won out as I walked over and wrapped my arms tightly around her.
My lips burying into her hair, "I love you; I love knowing that you want me to be happy but you have a lot of school in front of you. We have to do what's best for your career. We'll take it slow; we'll talk about all of the steps. We'll always make a decision together. I don't mind the flights – as long as I get to be with you at the end of the day." I felt her smile against my skin and she buried her body into mine. I knew how lucky I was to have her in my life and I was never going to let her go.
"I am a damn lucky woman," she whispered tilting her head back and I laughed, "I would have to agree. I'm a pretty damn lucky man." I stroked her face and she smiled, "My mom has some big plans for you. I'm glad you two like each other."
A smile uplifted on her face, "I'm really glad I love her. I was always terrified that I was going to have a mother-in-law that absolutely hated me." I chuckled, "I can promise you that she doesn't hate you. I think she loves you more than me." I teased. Gabi smiled and she changed into her outfit while I grabbed some stuff before heading downstairs. My mom came up and hugged me tightly, "Thanks for choosing her." I laughed to myself and rolled my eyes because I was pretty sure my mom loved my fiancée more than me.
"I have a sneaking suspicion that you love her more than you love me." I teased her with fake hurt and she giggled to herself, "Oh Troy, I love you." She patted my chest but I frowned, she never admitted that she loved me more. "Wait…" she walked up the stairs and laughed. "Mom!" I yelled with a laugh coming off my tongue, "Seriously? You don't even try?" my mom couldn't stop her laugh before disappearing. My dad laughed too, "I probably agree,"
"What the hell," I said with a laugh and my dad smirked before tossing me my old apron. "C'mon, you have work to do." I rolled my eyes and smiled; I was really happy they loved her…even if it was more than me.
Thursday, November 25th, 2021
Thanksgiving
Gabi's POV
Troy and I were curled up on the couch while we watched the parade with Audrey. Jake was still sleeping but Troy and I were sharing coffee and Audrey were commentating the parade with happiness. "Troy, can we go to New York during Thanksgiving? I think it would be a lot of fun," Troy smiled as he reached over to rub Audrey's head, "Maybe one day. It might be cooler from the couch though. I don't any of those people can see."
Audrey rolled her eyes, "I still think it would be cool." She wrapped her arms around her knees, "Maybe when Gabi is a rich surgeon, she can get us a hotel room that overlooks the parade," Troy said with a raised eyebrow towards Audrey and Audrey swung her eyes to me, "Would you?" I couldn't stop my laugh, "I don't know…I might not be rich. I'll have student loans," Troy rolled his eyes this time and squeezed my knees. "You're going to be the best of the best, B. Don't doubt yourself."
I smiled as I leaned into him while I finished off the coffee, "I think being a doctor would be cool," Audrey said as she watched the TV, "Is it hard?" she questioned and I shrugged, "It can be but I find it really interesting. I think studying for it is easy and finding my passion is even better. It is what you make it out to be. I think you'd be an excellent doctor, you're really smart Audrey and beautiful and so nice." Audrey's cheeks turned red and I felt Troy's eyes on me and I turned to face him to see a smile on his face, tugging on the corner of his lips. His hands rubbed my knee when Audrey got up to go grab something from the kitchen.
"Thank you, for that," My eyes lifted to Troy and he shrugged, "She needs to hear that from people, and I think coming from you is even better. You have zero obligation to her. Letting her chase her dreams are important." I swallowed on the lump as I crawled into his lap and I cuddled up to him. "I want her to always know that she can do everything she puts her mind, too. That is important and I wish people would have told me when I was younger."
Troy kissed the top of my head and he squeezed my hip gently, "I love you, Gabi. I love sharing every single day with you and learning from you and one day…in the future, whenever you're ready to talk about it, I can't wait to start a family with you. Watching you become a mom. You're so beautiful inside and out and watching you share that with the world, it's really beautiful." I couldn't stop the tears down my face but I kissed him softly, but I heard Audrey come back so I just rested against him.
"Seriously, Audrey, you're watching this?" Jake came down the stairs and Troy rolled his head over to his brother. "Be nice, she likes it." Jake rolls his eyes heavily while collapsing in the chair. "When does football start?" Jake asked reaching for the remote but Troy pushed him backward. "Jake, seriously, let her watch this. There are three football games that don't start until after this. You'll live." Jake rolled his eyes, "You've always had her side."
"Yea, somebody has to break up all of your fights." He shot Troy a look again and I laughed underneath my breath. "Speaking of family," I said taking a sip while whispering into the cup, "I think I know who the bad guy will be. I'll be the good guy," Troy rolled his eyes with a laugh while his hand rubbed my thigh back and forth. His parents were in the kitchen cooking and I could hear their laughing from here. I smiled pressing my lips into his neck, "Maybe next Thanksgiving we can host in our house. Both of our families." He looked down, "That sounds like a good idea."
My eyes wandered to the kitchen again to see Sam wrap his arms around Jessie while she laughed and tried to whip him with the towel. Troy looked at what I was looking at and he smiled, I laced our fingers together and he pressed his lips to the back of my neck. "I promise to love you like that." I swallowed down on the knot in my throat and I smiled turning to look at him. "Pinky promise?" Troy smiled and nodded his head, "Yes, pinky promise," our pinkies laced together and he kissed the outside and I did as well. "I just want to always remind you that I love you and if it's dancing in the kitchen while we make Turkey on Thanksgiving…"
We shared a smile and then a quick kiss. "I'm sorry about all of the holidays that I will have to work." He stroked my skin, "I'll eat hospital food on any of those holidays." I laughed, "You say that until you actually eat it." Troy let his thumb stroke my knee, "As I said earlier…if I'm with you baby, I'm going to be happy." We shared a long smile with each other when Jake came and hit Troy behind the head. "She's sleeping, can I please, change the channel?"
Troy tilted his head to look at his brother, "You act as if I want to watch the parade," Troy said with a laugh while he grabbed the remote and turned to the pre-game show. Jake happily collapsed into the couch while he intently watched. Troy started to watch the pre-game show as I rolled off his lap. He gripped my hand, "Where are you going?" he asked. I leaned down to kiss him, "I am going to take a shower and get ready for the day before your family starts to come over. Spend time with your brother." He gave me a tiny smile and a nod, "Okay, call if you need any help." He winked and I laughed, "Sure, I'll need help reaching the middle of my back."
Troy laughed loudly, "I know. You miss your self-tanner all the time." I gasped and I reached for a pillow as I threw it at his head. He chuckled as Jake couldn't help but laugh as I went up the stairs. I looked down to see Jake pointing something out to Troy and I watched as Troy grabbed his phone and scrolled. They both tossed their heads back in laughter causing my own smile.
Troy's POV
I dug into my food gladly as I tried to control my moan because I loved Thanksgiving. I loved the food, I loved being with my family, and I loved eating. It was so fucking good. It was even better with her eyes right on me. I lifted my face and she was trying to hide her smile, "Is it good?" she questioned, I smirked while I shoveled another pile of food into my mouth. "Love it," I grumbled and she laughed. God, I loved her laugh.
"Troy, manners, you're twenty-four."
"Barely," I countered back to her. My mom shook her head back and forth, "Troy, I've raised you better than that." I smirked, "I just can't help it. Your food is so freaking good." My mom gave me a smile as I squeezed Gabi's leg while we both continued to eat and share looks with each other. It felt good to be around my family, to be with Gabi, and to laugh and have fun. Gabi and I snuck off yesterday and went for a hike. It was cold but worth it. The make-out session against a tree wasn't bad either.
Audrey and Jake were both talking about their upcoming plans and I eagerly listened. I couldn't stop my smile as Jake talked about his previous football season, "Troy, you need to make it out to a game." He begged, "I'll try." I countered. He sighed, "It's your offseason,"
"It's been busy. I'll try and find a game and come out. I want to watch you play." It was hard to get and watch Jake play football but I definitely wanted, too. Gabi squeezed my leg and I felt her reassurance that we would make it happen. It was going to happen and I was bound and determined to make it happen. "Gabi, we are so happy you could join us again for Thanksgiving. Are you enjoying it?" my mom questioned and Gabi gave her one of those smiles that made my knees weak.
"It's delicious, Jessie. You know I love Sam's cooking and your side dishes are amazing. The mac n' cheese," she groaned and I had to shift and move in my chair from the noise. I needed to get my hands on her or I was going to combust by the end of this trip. She wanted to behave in my parents' house but I couldn't refrain anymore. "It is one of the favorites, I would probably be skinned alive if I didn't make it." My dad said and I quickly nodded, "Literally is half my plate." I gestured and Gabi smiled.
"It's hard to think next year we're going to have an extra Bolton at the table," my dad spoke, I felt my own grin come alive, my eyes twisting to Gabi and her cheeks blushed. "Sam, don't assume she is going to change her name." my mom scolded, Gabi, laughed, "No, I plan on changing my name. Troy and I are a team and I want to share a last name with my kids." I smiled over at her because it was something we never talked about. I didn't assume, either, but I never asked.
"You sure? You are all Montez," her eyes twisted to mine, her brown eyes were almost honey looking right now, so soft, and caring. Yet, there was a hardness behind them to show me how sure she was about this decision. "Yes, I'm sure. I've thought about it and people have asked and I just…I want to be one. I want to be a team and I love knowing that I'll be Mrs. Bolton." I wanted to reach over and kiss her right in the middle of dinner but I refrained.
I reached over and squeezed her thigh that was covered in jeans. "I love you," I whispered as I leaned over to kiss her temple. She leaned into my body as I got a whiff of her shampoo. "Audrey, honey, anything exciting?"
"I'm excited to be in Troy and Gabi's wedding and to have a sister finally!" Gabi laughed as she winked at Audrey, "We're going to do all of the sister things together," Audrey perked up, "Really?" she nodded her head and Audrey couldn't even hide her grin. I shared a look with my mom who had tears in her eyes. I knew how thankful she was to have all of us around this table and to have a girl like Gabi sitting here. I smiled back over at my mom and I looked back over to Gabi and was thankful myself.
Gabi's POV
I shut the door to the bedroom as I was exhausted from the Thanksgiving festivities but I wanted to take a moment to unwind for a second. His mom's sister came over and his dad's brother with their family was all here. It was nice to see all of them again but they only wanted to talk about the wedding, our engagement, our engagement story, and just everything about our lives. I called my parents and brother earlier to wish them a happy thanksgiving and to just chat. I wouldn't lie that I missed them and being with them but I was also very happy to spend it here with his family as well.
A knock came at the door and it pushed open for Troy to walk in. His blue eyes scanning the room before settling on me. I felt his comfort from here and I was glad he followed me. We haven't had a minute alone all day today. "Hey," I said, "You okay?" Troy asked as he sat down next to me. I leaned into his shoulder and nodded, "Yes, I was just trying to decompress a little bit. It's been a lot of talking and I'm tired. I just needed a minute."
His arm wrapped around me and his lips buried into my hair, "Thank you for coming, I know my family can be a lot sometimes." I snorted, "Have you met my family?" I questioned tilting my head back and he smiled, the corners of his mouth crinkling, "A few times." I laughed as he leaned down and pressed his lips against mine. He opened my lips with his and worked his tongue against mine, he easily pulled me into his lap and I couldn't stop this time.
I stopped this all week because I knew it was disrespectful to his parents and his siblings but they were all downstairs in the basement watching football. I couldn't keep my hands off of him anymore and he was exactly what I needed tonight. I kissed him roughly, my hands dragging through his hair, and his hands gripping my hips. "If you're going to stop this then we need to stop this," he said pulling away and his lips drove down my neck.
"No, no stopping," Troy groaned and turned to press me back into the bed. "Thank Fuck," he groaned as he began to kiss down my body. He began to take off my clothes while I clawed at his clothes. Once his shirt was off, my nailed raked down his skin while I locked my legs around his waist. His jeans were rubbing against me causing me to go wild. My leggings were still on and I slipped my hand down to pull them when the door swung open.
"Jesus," Jake's voice was loud and Troy collapsed on top of me, "Fuck off, Jake," Troy growled, I was breathing heavy as Troy twisted his head over to stare at his brother. "Maybe you should uh lock the door?" Jake suggested, Troy groaned, "Jake, out," he growled and I couldn't stop my laugh as Jake started to laugh. "JAKE!" the door finally shut as Troy got up and went to lock the door. I was trying to catch my breath still when he pulled on my leggings, "Look, I've wanted you for fucking days and I have to have you. Fuck him," I couldn't stop my laugh.
"Yes, sir,"
Hey guys! I know it's been a while and I appreciate the patience with this story! This will be my main focus for my entire semester! It will be a very busy (and hard) semester in school but I am going to try and get chapters out in a regular fashion (probably not every week but better than every 2-3 months ha!). I am so glad you all love this story! Let me know what you think!
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