Chapter 27 – Matched
Sunday, March 17th, 2024
Gabi's POV
I paced the floor as I kept my eye on Knox crawling across the floor. I couldn't believe that he was crawling already. My little baby wasn't so little anymore as he crawled over to stick one of his favorite toys in his mouth. He glanced up at me with those big blue eyes and a smile on his face. "Hi buddy," I cooed and he grinned at me as he did his fast-little crawl over to me. I swooped him up in my arms and curled him into my body.
"Hi big boy," I murmured into his ear as Troy was in Florida until later tonight. He was flying home because this week was match week and he wanted to be here for me. He made sure he had plenty of work to do but after this week, we had one more test, and then I was free until July. When I would start my residency. I took in a deep breath of air because all of the hard work was done – if I matched into a program. I started to sweat just thinking about it.
"Daddy will be home today big man," I told him as he grabbed my hair and gently pulled on it. I couldn't stop my smile as he gave me his gummy one with two teeth poked through. Those teeth had been hell on him but once they popped through, he turned back to my happy little boy. Knox was very happy with his moments but for being 10 months old – he was such a sweet baby. He loved to cuddle, play, and eat all of the different foods. I was still breastfeeding him and he loved our mommy and Knox time.
"Knox, we are going to find out this week where mommy matched – if I matched and then we are probably going to have to move unless it's Duke." I sighed because I was nervous. I really wanted to go to Baylor. Troy and I had talked at great length about how I were going to rank my programs and that was by far my favorite and Troy told me to go for it. Duke went number two followed by Boston. I didn't even rank Washington.
Once this month was over, I only had one focus – making a ton of memories with Knox. I was going to throw him the best first birthday party while going to the beach, going to the pool, and watching some of Troy's games. Knox snuggled into my chest and he yawned as I looked at the clock to see that it was his naptime.
"C'mon, let's go have a snack and a nap." I kissed his head as I went to his nursery, where he happily resided every single night, while we settled into the rocking chair. He pulled at my shirt and cried when my bra was in his way. I couldn't stop my smile as I pulled it to allow him access to nurse. "Daddy will be home for the first time in two weeks. Aren't you excited little man?" His eyes were already closing and I stroked his head. It was the longest Troy had gone without seeing Knox and he was struggling. He called twice a day to facetime him – once in the morning and once before bed.
Troy was going to be landing after bedtime and he was majorly bummed about it. Knox didn't take very long to fall asleep as I laid him down in his crib and I paced a while longer. My mind racing with every single thing running through my brain. What if I didn't match? What happens if I have to find somewhere? Should I have ranked Washington? This was my future and if I didn't get a good residency it would be mission impossible to get into sports medicine after that.
I groaned as my mind was doing a downward spiral. I collapsed on the couch as I pulled out my phone to call Troy. I needed him to calm my fears. It rang twice before he picked up, "Hi, you know I'll be home in like six hours, right?" I laughed and nodded my head, "Yup. I do. I just need you to calm me down. What if I don't match, Troy?" he had gotten more of these phone calls over the past several days than I think either of us wanted to admit.
"B, you are going to match. You have an incredible resume, kick-ass recommendation letters, and good test scores. You are going to match it. I promise." I inhaled deeply, "You can't promise that. What if I don't?" I whispered and Troy didn't say anything for a beat and sighed. "Baby, you're right. I can't promise it but I have this deep-down gut feeling that you are going to match. You are going to match to one of the programs and we are going to be moving or staying and…it's all going to work out like it needs to work out."
I exhaled at his words.
"Remember, we are exactly where we are supposed to be. Whatever happens…happens for any reason. Okay?" I battled back the tears because he was always right and knew the best way to calm me down. "Okay," I whispered back and Troy sighed, "Don't cry. I won't be there for several more hours and I want to comfort you now. Please," I laughed as I rubbed my eyes. "Okay, okay, I won't cry until you get home. I am a mess of emotions though."
Troy chuckled, "Understood. You have a lot of shit going on. How about a change of subject, how is my little man? I miss him." I smiled as I settled into the couch. "He is currently taking his nap. He can't wait to see daddy tomorrow morning." Troy groaned, "I would give anything to be there before bedtime."
"I know, I know but we can do our bedtime together," Troy grunted through the phone and I couldn't help but laugh. "Damn right we will have our bedtime together…promise to stay focused on me though?" I smiled as I nodded, "I'll try my damn hardest," I teased him back and Troy laughed quietly. "I have to get back to work. I'll see you soon though, I love you. You are going to match."
"I love you, too," I whispered back to him and I hung up the phone as I exhaled. I was going to match.
I pushed a spoon into Knox's mouth as he pushed it away and cried in response. He was teething and all evening had exhausted me. He didn't want to eat, only breastfed, and cried if I looked away from him. Knox threw his food and I sighed as I picked up the tray and took it to the sink. I went back with a washcloth for Knox and he screamed as I tried to wipe his face. "Knox, baby," I soothed and he wiggled and threw his arms.
I unbuckled him and picked him up as he cried into my shoulder. His whole body stiff and I breathed in his baby scent. "Oh boy," I spun around to see Troy standing in the kitchen with a pair of jeans and a snug t-shirt. I felt my entire body relax at the sight of him with tears welling in my eyes. I missed him. I walked over and Knox threw his body towards Troy causing him to chuckle and he took Knox from my arms. He cradled him with one arm and pulled me into his body with his other arm.
"Are we having a bad night?" Troy asked and I laughed as I smelled his manly scent. "Yea, we needed this." I buried my face against his chest and Troy dropped a kiss onto my forehead while Knox continued to cry. "You get a glass of wine, take a bath, and I'll do Knox's nighttime routine tonight. You deserve the break," Troy said as he tilted my chin back forcing me to look at him. I just nodded as Troy smiled.
"Knox, say night to mama," I reached up for a quick kiss from Knox and I kissed Troy quickly and he grunted. "I want more of that." He said and I smiled as I let Troy take Knox to settle him down while I poured myself a glass of wine and unthawed some breast milk for Troy. I heard Knox start to settle down as I passed through the living room as Troy was talking in his ear while bouncing him. Knox gripped onto Troy's shirt and rocked him gently.
"There is breast milk thawing in the sink," I said and Troy sent me that smile with a nod. "Go relax." I just nodded as I went upstairs and turned on the bath as the water started to fill it. I settled in with a book and my favorite glass of wine. The book only lasted for so long as I enjoyed the soft music and the wine. I could hear Knox every so often as Troy tried to settle him but it would be the challenge as he was grumpy from his teeth.
I finished off my glass of wine as I unplugged the drain and dried off before pulling on my short robe. I tied it in the front as I let my hair down before doing downstairs to grab another glass of wine feeling a little extra brave tonight. I rubbed my lips together when an arm wrapped around my midsection and his lips buried into my hair. "God, I missed you." His voice ghosted against my neck and I felt the goosebumps trail down my body.
"I missed you more," I told him and Troy kissed the spot before turning me around. "Did you enjoy your bath? I figured I was going to have to peel you out of there." I laughed and shook my head. "No. I needed more wine and I want to spend time with my husband. I've missed him a lot." Troy smiled as he reached up and cradled my face as he stroked it with his thumb. "I missed you. I missed him." I smiled in understanding. "I also missed seeing you in this robe," Troy kissed down my neck and I sat my wine down as Troy easily slid me onto the counter. Our mouths fused together in a tangle of kisses and nips.
My fingers drifted up his shirts and his began to untie my robe from around me. Troy easily picked me up and carried me upstairs to our bedroom. His mouth ravishing mine in the process before he laid me back on the mattress. He pulled off his t-shirt and kicked off his jeans before coming back to me. Troy wedged between my legs as he kissed down my body and he groaned as I gripped his hair. "I don't want to spend two weeks without you or Knox." Troy breathed and I agreed as he kissed me roughly, again.
Troy thoroughly took his time with my body and when we both were sated with smiles on our faces – he went downstairs and came back with two glasses of wine. I couldn't stop my smile as Troy laid in bed with me as I took a sip. "I have a question," Troy offered and I looked over at him with curiosity, "Even if you go to Duke…what do you think about me quitting my job for this year?" I squinted and blinked at Troy. "Really? Even if I do end up here," Troy nodded his head.
"Yea, I just think that I want to spend time with you and Knox. I'd like to move out there like a month early to get everything settled before you start if we have to move so why not just quit now anyway? I don't know. The first year is going to be hard and I'd rather be there for Knox every day and for him to have a consistent schedule while we figure out what your schedule looks like. I'd go back to work after that or find some free-lancing stuff or I don't know. I'd figure it out eventually,"
I took a sip of my wine as I thought about it for a moment and nodded my head, "I think that if that is what you want to do then do it. I just don't want money to be too tight," I told him honestly and Troy nodded in understanding. "We've been saving a ton of money recently. Our savings account is the best it's been in a while and you'll start getting paid." Troy reminded me and I laughed, "Yea, a small amount of money."
"But it would be enough for car payment, house, and other bills probably without having to tap into our savings."
"Don't forget about my student loans," I reminded him and Troy smiled, "They are much better than most people coming out of med school with your dad working at Duke and not having to pay for your undergrad." I breathed as I just nodded, "At least six months to allow us to get settled. We'll go from there." I smiled and nodded my head. "Even if I stay here? You wouldn't want to continue doing your job?" I questioned and Troy sighed.
"I love my job, don't get me wrong, I just…I hate traveling and being away from you guys. I'll find something else." I snuggled up into him and breathed in his scent. "I wouldn't be upset by it. I still think he needs to go to some sort of daycare for like two days a week because he needs socialization." Troy kissed my head and was quiet for a moment. "Yea, I do think that is a good idea. That'll give me time to do other shit. Like, come find you at the hospital." I laughed and tilted my head back to kiss him.
"Why are you home earlier?" I questioned and Troy smiled, "I'm home earlier because when you called me earlier, I knew you needed me here earlier than 10pm. I also missed Knox. I was able to get an earlier flight and me just…I am glad I came home. I got to put Knox to bed and then I was able to fuck my girl like I've wanted to do for days." I sat up and reached for him as I stroked his face with my thumb and Troy leaned forward to kiss me again.
"I am glad I showed up when I did. It looked like Knox was giving you a run for your money." I laughed with a nod. "He was. His teeth are bothering him big time." Troy grimaced and sighed as he kissed my temple as we talked about anything and everything until my eyes grew heavy. I pushed the anxiety away knowing that tomorrow morning I would get an email saying that my life changed or if I had to figure shit out fast.
Troy's POV
Monday, March 18th, 2024
Gabi was pacing in the living room with her phone in her hand. I eyed Knox as he was eating bananas for a snack but his eyes were also on Gabi. She was only finding out if she matched today. She wouldn't find out where she matched until the big matched ceremony on Friday that Duke was holding. It was 10:56 and I knew she was internally freaking out. I let her do what she needed to do as she had pulled into herself all morning long.
She slept last night but was quiet this morning. I think I've barely heard her utter two words to me. My eyes flickered to the clock as I was nervous for her. It was our future but I knew things were going to be much more complicated if she doesn't match. I cleaned up Knox as Gabi groaned and I turned to look at her. "You okay?" I asked as I picked up Knox and I went to put him by his toys in the living room. Gabi just nodded as she chewed on her thumb.
"I swear, time slowed down." I laughed and just nodded my head as I went over to pull her hair away from her neck and planted a kiss. "It's going to be okay. If you matched or didn't match. It's going to be okay." She exhaled and turned to make eye contact with me. "Knox will still love you. I will still love you. That's honestly all that matters right?" I teased and she couldn't resist the smile as I planted my lips onto hers in a quick kiss.
"I love you," I whispered.
"I love you, too. Thank you." I just nodded as she slipped her hand into mine with her fingers going over my pulse. I almost found just as much comfort in that gesture as she did. The clock flickered to 11 and Gabi took a deep breath as she grabbed her phone and refreshed the page again. It seemed to take forever to load as both of our eyes were glued to the phone. She shifted with anxiety when the screen popped up.
Matched.
Gabi let out a shrill excitement and flew into my arms as she wrapped her body around me and I laughed hugging her back. I was so damn proud of her. "I did it, I matched, I matched," she was practically crying as I hugged her tighter to me. God, I was so fucking proud of her. She had worked hard for this. From the moment I met her during sophomore year to right now – it was amazing. "I'm so proud of you," I whispered into her ear.
She laughed and pulled back to pull my face in for a deep kiss. Knox squawked from the floor as Gabi let go of me and then went over to pick up Knox. "Buddy! I matched. Momma is going to be a real-life doctor," I smiled shaking my head as if she actually believed she wasn't going to match. My girl was too big for that. She had too many dreams and so much will to make it all happen. She was going to make anything in her dreams happen.
It was the one thing I wanted Knox to learn from his mom. I still wasn't sure what I exactly wanted to do. I loved my job as a social media coordinator with a baseball team. I loved the PR side and I would love to continue to do that but with more stable hours. Gabi had the crazy hours. I needed the stable hours. It was giving and take. She chased her dreams, I chased her. That was the rules.
"Tell Daddy we should go out tonight and maybe you can stay the night at Grandma's house," Gabi cheered and my gut turned because that sounded fucking amazing. Knox babbled and clapped his hands as Gabi kissed on him. "You serious? You want a date night?" I questioned and Gabi sent me a breathtaking smile and a nod. "Yea. Just the two of us. Let's celebrate. I matched. I don't care where at this point. All three are a very good option."
I let a slow smile work over my lips and I nodded, "Alright. Let's celebrate. I am going to make the plans though." She gave me a quirked eyebrow and I winked back at her. Gabi shook her head, "What are you planning in that beautiful brain, Troy Bolton?" I smirked. "You'll find out." I walked over and laid my hand on her hip and let my forehead touch hers while I took in a deep breath. "I'm so proud of you baby, like…I just am in love with your work ethic. Your desire. Your passion. I love it. I have had a front-row seat to watch you succeed and I am just…I am in awe. I am glad Knox has you as his role model in life. To reach for the stars and make it happen."
Gabi let a few tears slide down her face as I gently wiped them away. "I love you. I'm proud of you. I can't wait to watch you kick ass over these next several years."
"I'm blessed with you." She said and I put my finger to her lips to quiet her. "No, this is about you. You did it. You worked hard. You put in the hours and the sweats and all of the blood." Gabi smiled at my words and I kissed her head. I left Gabi and Knox in the living room as she called her mom with the exciting news as I went upstairs to find my laptop.
I booked a reservation.
I booked a hotel room.
And I grinned because I was treating my girl to one hell of a date.
Gabi's POV
I took a long sip of wine as I had not been able to wipe my smile off my face since the moment, I found out I had matched. Troy was in polo with a pair of slacks as we were dining at a fancy restaurant tonight. I was in a cute summer dress with my curls fanning around me as Troy took a drink of his whiskey as he leaned forward. "You look stunning," my smile grew even wider and Troy just chuckled as he stole a quick kiss as we continued to search the menu.
"Do you think Knox is going to have fun with my mom tonight?" I questioned as I took another drink and Troy smiled. "Of course. Knox always has fun with your mom. I just hope his teeth don't bother him too much for her and your dad." Troy reached for my hand as he slid his thumb over my palm back and forth when the waiter came back. Troy and I gave our orders before Troy leaned forward. "Before we get carried away talking about everything – I just want you to know that I am very proud of you. I am proud of how you have made everything work. Between basketball, our relationship, Knox, and just everything else going on in life – you did it." Troy smiled and squeezed my hand.
"I watched you study. I watched you practice. I watched you stress. I saw your tears. I wiped them away. I watched you accomplish all of these things in just four years and I cannot wait to see where these next five years take us. I know you are going to have more tears, more stress, more learning, and less time with us but we're going to make it work and I am so excited to watch you with this journey." I couldn't stop the well of tears in my eyes and he reached forward and wiped them away gently.
"I'll always be there to wipe away the tears, hug over the successes, and listen to your rants. I know our relationship is going to take a bit of a hit in the next several months but I know we'll also figure it out. We always do." Troy leaned forward and kissed me lightly on the lips and I kissed him right back. "I love you," I whispered to him. I caressed his face and stared in those ocean blue eyes for a moment and I smiled softly. "I know you don't want to hear it because today is about me but Troy. Honestly. It's about us."
Troy shook his head but I squeezed his hand, "No. Listen. I would have never gone for medicine if it wasn't for you pushing me to go for my dreams. I would have never been able to play basketball and be in medical school without your help. I would have never been able to plan a wedding and get married while in medical school without you. I would have never been able to become a mom while in medical school without you and your complete understanding. We've done this as a team. You probably know just as much as I do from helping me study. You've let me practice exams on you…even ones you didn't really care for." Troy grunted and I couldn't stop my smile.
"Every single step…you've been there. Even when I tried to push you far away. You never wavered. You never stopped. You helped make our time a priority and knew when I needed school time to be a priority as well. You are also making more sacrifices. Quitting your job, finding a new job, being a dad to Knox more than I am a mom to Knox…I just…this isn't an I situation, Troy. It's a situation. We did it."
Troy kissed me and his hand cupped the back of my head, "I love you, baby. I am glad we did this together then. I love watching you." A smile etched on my lips and I shook my head. "I expected nothing less from you." I winked at him as he chuckled with another kiss against my mouth. "God, I love you."
Our dinner was served only about fifteen minutes later as we caught up on life in general. He explained what was going on at work, I explained to him the rest of my schedule, and he only smirked as he paid the bill. "C'mon, we have another surprise." I narrowed my eyes as I stood up. He reached his hand out and I let my hand fall into his as he started walking towards the front. I followed him as we walked hand in hand down the street when he abruptly stopped. I nearly tripped but a grin tipped on Troy's face.
He tugged my hand and I stumbled behind him into a bar and I narrowed my eyes as Troy threw a $20 for cover before he tugged me to the dance floor when my ears registered the song playing overhead. Falling Like the Stars by James Arthur was playing overhead and Troy pulled me in close to his body as his arm wrapped around my waist while our fingers linked together. "It was like fate," he whispered as we danced to the song as most people left the dance floor.
I felt the tears well in my eyes as I leaned into my husband as I was transported back to our wedding night over two years ago – the last time we danced to this song. A lot had changed in those two years but the promises that we made to each other rang fresh in my head still. "It is fate," I whispered back as Troy chuckled as he kissed my hair while we just danced to the music. The song causing goosebumps to rise on my skin.
"My biggest promise to you is still my unconditional love," he whispered into my ear and the tears broke free as Troy must have noticed as he tipped my chin backward. "It's the best promise you ever made me," I said looking up to him and he dropped a kiss to my lips and our foreheads met in the middle while the song faded out and a fast pace song started to strum but we didn't move from our spots as our eyes held together.
"After my intern year we can start to add to our four kids with two on each knee," I told him and Troy chuckled, "Yea? You want four now?" I shrugged. "Let's see where life takes us." Troy dropped another kiss and that little smirk returned. "I really do have another surprise."
"What?" I questioned and he smirked before just taking me out the door, again. I followed him down the street before we settled in the front of one of the fanciest hotels in Durham. "Troy," I whispered and he smiled before cupping my face. "Tonight, I have lots and lots of sex with you, and tomorrow morning you have a spa time while I go pick up Knox and get the house cleaned before we pick you up." I couldn't stop the tears again and I shook my head.
"I don't deserve you," I whispered. Troy laughed and kissed me hard. "Look, I'm getting sex out of the deal. I'm not sad." I couldn't stop my laugh as he brushed my tears away. God, I loved him.
Friday, March 22nd, 2024
Match Party
Gabi's POV
"Knox!" Troy directed his attention as I tried to get a picture with my favorite little man and when he gave a gummy smile Troy laughed while we posed together. "Do we want a family picture?" Cassie asked coming over and Troy gave her the phone as he came over to take a picture with us. I rubbed my lips together as Troy slipped his arm around my waist but Knox reached for him and cried out. "Of course, you want daddy," I grumbled and Troy chuckled as Knox gripped onto Troy.
We took a picture together and I thanked Cassie as she came up and tickled Knox. "I am glad you are so much more relaxed today." Troy said and I laughed, "Because I know I already matched. We're just about to find out where." Troy smiled and I took in his dark slacks with a white button-up shirt. His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows and his hair was styled this morning. I glanced down at my blue dress and Troy pulled me in as Cassie took Knox from his hands.
"You are stunningly beautiful; I can't wait to see what our future holds for us." I waved the little card in front of him as we were all going to open them at one time and find out where we are going together. Troy squeezed my wrist gently as Troy and I took a picture together then Troy took a picture of me with my envelope. "Beautiful," I shook my head as Knox cried out and Troy reached back for him as he snuggled into Troy's chest.
I rubbed his back while we waited for everybody to get here with their envelopes for our big lite reveal. I took a group picture with my classmates and I smoothed out my dress as I felt the nerves tingle in my tummy. I am not going to be upset by any of the places. I loved all of them and if they didn't want me then it wasn't meant to be. I can only control so much and I matched. That is the important part. I have somewhere to go.
I took in a deep breath as Troy gave me a sweet smile when they started making announcements. My stomach bottomed out with nerves and I reached for Troy's hand as I found his pulse with my finger and my body almost instantly calmed down. "I got you." I blinked away the tears as I listened to the speeches that were beginning and talking about our future. Thanking our loved ones for this med school journey.
"The future is very bright from here. You did a lot of hard work to get to this point. You've taken tests. You've studied. You've put in the hours. This next journey is going to be just as difficult. Longer hours. More work. More learning. More tests…you are going to be successful. I look around this room and see how hard this entire class has worked. I see the families who have worked just as hard to help the family while their loved ones have been getting ready to change the future. The dedication that was given by students and families is what makes this work and we are so proud of all of you. You have done amazing things and we want to congratulate you on your matching…now please…open the envelope."
I turned to give Troy a look and he was holding his phone videotaping me and I shook my head with a smile. I slowly undid the envelope and I felt the butterflies flutter in my stomach.
Congrats you have matched!
Program: Orthopedics
Institution name: Baylor University
I squealed as I hugged the paper to my chest and I felt the tears well in my eyes as I looked at Troy. "Where are we going?" Troy asked and I felt my smile grow wide as I threw my hands up. "We're going to Waco!" Troy laughed as he turned off the phone and I threw my hands around his neck while I squished Knox in the middle. "I am so proud of you. You did it." I couldn't stop the flow of tears and Troy hugged me tightly to his body.
I kissed Knox's head and I laughed, "You're going to be a cowboy, buddy," Troy chuckled as I stole a kiss from him. I couldn't stop my smile on my face as I finally surmised to all of the emotions and the excitement as I broke down into tears about the whole thing. All of the work. All of the love. All of it. "Hang on Knox," Troy's voice entered my ear, and then his arms were wrapping around my body. He tucked me close to him.
"What's wrong?" he whispered and I shook my head. "Nothing. I am so happy. We're going to Texas. I did all of this and it's all paying off and I am just…I am so happy." Troy kissed my temple and he secured me tightly into his arms. "Send that video to our families," I told him. He just nodded as I picked up Knox and I smiled. "I am so excited to show you another place, little man." He giggled and pulled on my hair as we finished up our matchday program while we had a whirlwind of emotions.
Troy took Knox back to the house for his nap as I continued to take pictures, celebrate, and just enjoy my time with my friends. All of us had matched and got into our number one program which made me so happy for everybody. The girls and I shared a drink before I made my way back to the house. I opened the garage and let myself in when I was taken aback by a loud surprise. I felt tears fill my eyes as our friends and family, even Troy's, were here to celebrate that I had matched.
I gasped as I let my hands cover my mouth and Lauren crashed me into a hug. "Congrats baby! I am so sad you're leaving me. Maybe I'll convince Grey to move to Texas." I laughed as I hugged her back tightly as I greeted my mom and dad. Sam and Jessie were there as I hugged each of them as Jessie was holding Knox. They were coming back in just a few weeks for Knox's first birthday as well and I was in more denial that he was already one.
Trevor and Vivian were grabbing me in a hug and I smiled with a shake of my head, "I am going to miss both of you."
"Especially since we are having baby number three," Viv whispered into my ear and I gasped and looked between the two of them. "Seriously?!" they both nodded and I crashed into them with a hug. "I am so happy for both of you." Clara and Wyatt were jumping up and down with Troy and I smiled looking at them as they were playing some game. I greeted some of our other friends and old basketball teammates as Grey picked me up in a tight hug.
"I am so proud of you! You are going to do big things. Then when you get a job you can recommend me for the athletic trainer." I laughed as I hugged him tightly back. "We would make a dream team." I winked at him as we shared a laugh. I grabbed a drink as Troy slipped his arm around my waist and I leaned back into him. "Thank you," I whispered into him and he smiled. "It was a lot of Lauren but you're welcome. We both wanted to celebrate you. You did it."
I smiled as I twisted around to kiss him. "We're going to Texas," I whispered and he laughed. "We're going to Texas."
Saturday, May 18th, 2024
Gabi's POV
"Troy, just a little higher," I said with a look and he shot me a look but I could only smile back at him. We were decorating for our son's first birthday and I was emotional about it. I couldn't believe he would be one tomorrow. His party was today, we were celebrating tomorrow, and then we were moving to Texas on Monday. The house was bare and packed but packed all in our rooms to host the party today.
Troy and I wanted to get down to Texas well in advance to get settled and happy. Troy finished out his job last week and we had been spending the last weeks packing and getting ready for Knox's birthday. Troy adjusted the sign again and I felt a smile breech onto my lips.
One Happy Camper
I clapped with excitement and happiness and Troy smiled as Trevor rolled his eyes while they pinned it up. Knox stood up and wobbled as I watched him take a couple of steps and I smiled. He tumbled forward and laughed as he sat back on his butt. I couldn't stop watching him as the last year flew before my eyes. Troy got down and picked up Knox before tossing him in the air causing giggles to echo out of his mouth.
We took his one-year pictures yesterday and they were perfect from what I had seen. Knox has such a fun personality. He was adventurous but also cautious. He loved to try new things but wanted one of us near him. He loved to snuggle and watched basketball games with Troy or play with his cousins or play in the clean laundry while I try to fold it. I smiled thinking about it as he whined and reached for me and I snuggled him to my body.
"Hi baby," I murmured into his ear and he giggled while tugging on my hair. "Mama," he murmured. "Do you want to go take a nap before all of your friends come?" I questioned and his eyes looked at me and his chubby little hands. I couldn't stop my smile as I kissed his head. "Troy, I'm going to put Knox down for his nap," I called out. "Okay, what else do you need me to do?" Troy questioned. I surveyed all of the decorations and the things set out. "Can you put together his gift?" I questioned. Troy hesitated, "That means I would have to take it back down to move."
I breathed out as I did understand but I wanted him to see it on his birthday. "How about I go find another little gift for him? Then when we move it can be the first thing I can put together." Troy bargained and I just nodded my head and Troy gave me a reassuring smile. "He's going to love it when we get to Texas. He is also going to love our house in Texas." I smiled in agreement. Troy and I went down for a four-day weekend to Waco.
We found a modest house in Waco with a pool in the backyard, a swing-set, and a big enough yard for him to run around. The house has four bedrooms and three baths. Troy and I fell in love with it and we made an offer and we are finally moving in this week. I was excited. Knox will love the big backyard. He is like his daddy in the fact that he loves being outdoors. I laid Knox down in his crib as I rubbed his back for a few moments before going back downstairs. Troy and Trevor were gone but Sam was sitting out back with Jessie.
I smiled as I stepped out, "Gabi, are you ready for the move?" I nodded. "I am excited. Nervous, but excited. As long as my favorite people are coming with me then I will be okay." Jessie smiled. "Knox is such a sweetheart. You guys are doing amazing with him," I smiled in appreciation. "Troy has done a lot of it. I was gone a lot."
"That little boy loves you," Jessie said. "You have been his mom and that's all that matters." I gave her a hug. "Are you excited that Troy is a much shorter flight away?" Jessie smiled, "As long as he is happy, I'll fly however long away to see him." I gave her a sweet smile when Troy came through the back door. "Hi," I said with a smile. He smiled, "Hi, what are we talking about out here?" Jessie grinned. "Your happiness."
"So, Gabi and Knox?" Troy questioned and I couldn't stop a smile. Jessie grinned from ear to ear as she stared at her son. "Exactly. That's what I was saying to Gabi." Troy winked at me while I stood up. "I have to go get all of the food out and then it should be party time."
"Do you need any help?" Troy asked and I shook my head as I slipped my arms around his waist. "No. Spend some time with your mom and dad." Troy kissed me as I slipped back inside as Lauren and Grey came into the kitchen. "Hi, love! Where is my little man?" Lauren asked setting her bag down. "Sleeping. We woke him up early today so he would take a good morning nap before his party." Lauren pouted. "I know, I know. He'll be up soon probably."
Grey went out back while Lauren helped me set out all of the food and finish the decorations when Troy, Grey, Sam, and Jessie came back in. "I think I heard your brother. He went back to get Viv and the kids." I nodded as I went to open the front door when Wyatt collided into my legs. "Hi, buddy!" I hugged him and then Clara came up behind him as I hugged her tightly. "Hi sweet girl." She giggled against my ear while I tugged on her pretty hair.
She squealed when she saw Troy as I hugged Viv and Trevor. "I'm going to get the birthday boy up," I went upstairs and peeked into his crib as he was curled up with his tushy into the air. His little chubby feet sticking out and I blinked away the tears looking at him. It was his last day as a baby and I was sad. I felt like the past year flew so fast and I just…I don't know where it went. "You okay?" I turned to see Troy leaning in the doorway and I nodded my head as I brushed away my tears.
"Yea, I am just sad. I can't believe he is already one." Troy gave me a smile as he walked over to take in the scene in front of me. "God, he's cute when he sleeps like that." I let out a laugh, "You should try this." Troy barked a laugh. "I would tear ligaments probably." I couldn't stop my louder laugh and Knox wiggled and whimpered in his sleep. I picked him up and he rubbed his eyes and let his head rest on my shoulder. "Knoxy," I whispered and he wiggled again as he lifted his head to look at Troy.
"Hi buddy," Troy hooked his finger into Knox's grasp. "C'mon let's change his diaper and clothes and get this party started." Troy nodded as I laid him down on the changing table as Troy distracted him while I changed him. Troy picked him up as we went back downstairs as my parents showed up. We were just doing a small party as it was his first birthday and we were literally moving in two days. Our house barely had any furniture and was nearly a disaster but we were going to celebrate Knox the way he deserves.
"Knox!" my mom reached for him and Knox cried and reached back for me. I laughed, "He's still trying to wake up." My mom pouted as we all started to dig into the food while Knox woke up as soon as he spotted Clara and Wyatt. He got down on the floor to play with them as we talked about Knox's first year of life. All of the cute stories of my little man as I sat on the floor with him. "Gabi, I heard that you and Troy were heading out to Texas first and your mom was going to fly Knox out?" Jessie said.
I nodded, "Yea, Troy and I are going to get his stuff set up and get settled and have my mom bring him out. That way we can just get it done and not have to chase him around the house before it is baby-proofed." Jessie laughed as she shook a toy in front of Knox as he crawled towards her and she picked him up. "He is going to have so much fun in Texas," I gave a smile with a nod. "I am just nervous about how busy I will be. He is so much fun and I want to spend so much time with me."
"You'll figure it out. Give yourself grace." I nodded as Troy came over, "You want to do presents and then cake?" I nodded my head. "Yea, let's do it."
Troy and I sat down together with Knox in my lap as we opened gifts – all were small at our request so that it was easy to travel with. Knox giggled when he grabbed the plush basketball from my dad. "Ball!" he screeched causing Troy and I to laugh. "What do you think he's going to say when he finds out his mom was just as good as his dad?" Grey questioned and Troy tipped his head back in laughter. "Just as good? Gabi was better than me. I'll send him to her when it's about basketball." I smirked.
"You better get that right, Grey. I am the best. I can beat both of you." Grey just rolled his eyes. Troy laughed again, "Grey, don't test her. She will make us both go play right now." Grey smirked. "Let's do it then."
I laughed, "Fine. Let's go." I stood up as I kissed Knox's head. "I am going to change. We'll do cake after the game." Grey looked at me with a bit of shock but I kicked off my shoes and ran upstairs to grab my tennis shoes and changed into a t-shirt with running shorts. I met Troy and Grey outside as I grabbed a basketball from the garage – that hadn't been packed yet. Knox was in Lauren's arms as the whole family came outside. "Alright boys, you wished it upon yourself."
My dad chuckled in the background.
I tipped my beer towards Grey and Troy. "Nice try, boys. The one thing I will teach Knox is that a girl can and will kick your ass." Troy chuckled underneath of his breath while Grey just rolled his eyes and pouted that I indeed did beat them – cleanly. My dad refed the game and he was harder against me than he was the boys to prove a point. Knox was seated in his high chair as Troy retrieved the cake from the fridge as I went to drop a kiss to Knox's head as I took his picture on my phone.
He grinned as Troy light the candle and everybody sang him a happy birthday. His blue eyes wide with fear as we all sang and he looked around as Troy put the cake in front of him – but outside of his reach. We snapped a few pictures with just Knox and some of us as a family while Troy settled it in front of him. Troy held his hands back for the moment as I smiled.
"Knox, buddy, blow out the candle," I told him and I blew in his little face and he mocked me as he tried to blow his breath my direction. I laughed as Troy and I helped him blow the candle out. Troy took the candle out as we let Knox have at the smash cake. It didn't take much influence for him to grab a chunk of it and put it in his face. He was a really good eater and cake apparently was no exception. He smashed his face into it causing the room to laugh as I shook my head.
Troy snapped pictures of him with his camera and I felt my heart grow warm because I had all of my favorite people around me. My family, my best friends, Troy, Knox, and Troy's family were all here celebrating our favorite person. It was almost overwhelming with the amount of love that I felt for him. Troy showed him the little basketball goal that he got him from the store instead of the bigger one we got for his birthday that Troy wanted to wait until we got to Waco to build.
Grey and Troy were shooting baskets in the kitchen as Knox laughed and clapped. My mom came over and she hugged me, "I see that look on your face. It is so nice to feel all of the love." I nodded in agreement as tears welled in my eyes as I hugged her. "I am going to miss you," I whispered and she laughed. "I will fly to Texas all the time. I promise. Duke travels to Texas a lot so it'll be fun." I gave her a smile as she hugged me tightly. "I am excited to watch you and Troy do big, big things together in Texas. You are going to flourish and Troy is going to find his perfect job down there. Knox is going to love growing up there. It will be fun. I am just a plane ride away."
I thanked her with another tight squeeze before I separated to give Knox a bath and released him to play with Clara and Wyatt, again. I settled on the couch to watch when Troy came over and sat down next to me. "I'm sad that he won't get to grow up with them," I said and Troy squeezed my knee. "Once he starts daycare in August, he'll make good friends. I promise. We'll figure it out. Hopefully there will be plenty of time to visit each other." I nodded as Troy dropped a kiss to my head. "I have something for you."
He reached forward as he grabbed a book and then handed it to me. I felt the tears well in my eyes just from the cover of the book. It was a picture of Troy and me with a newborn Knox on the cover. It was on the hospital bed as we both looked exhausted but full of so much love as we stared at our beautiful baby. I opened the first page as it was practically a baby book but of just pictures that Troy had taken of Knox over his first year. I couldn't stop the tears from running down my face while I watched him grow up in front of me.
All of the things that he was able to do in his first year.
His first Duke game.
His first holidays.
His first food.
His first night in his crib.
His first time staying with Grandma and Grandpa.
All of it.
Pictures of us napping and laying around the house or just playing in the yard.
"Troy," I gasped at one of the last pages as it was of Knox breastfeeding and me staring at him as he ate. It was such a beautiful picture as it was in black in white. "I know. It was one of my favorites. You just look at him with such love and he is so happy…I loved it." I wiped away the tears and I finished it out by his one of his one-year pictures taped in the back. "I love it, Troy. I love it so much." I whispered as I wrapped my arms around his neck and buried my lips into his neck.
"I love it, too. It's going to be my tradition every single year." I smiled as I gave him a quick kiss. "He'll love them when he's older. I am so glad you love to take pictures." Troy cracked a smile and I kissed him again. "We're going to make so many memories in Texas," Troy said to me. "I know you're nervous but we're going to do it."
Troy's POV
Tuesday, May 21st, 2024
Waco, TX
I dropped a box on the floor as Gabi and I had arrived early this morning after driving all day yesterday to get here. We shipped one car and packed her car full of stuff while I drove a U-Haul behind her. We got the keys to our house and we have slowly been moving in things all day. She had gone to the store to get a beer, some food, and things for Knox when he arrives on Thursday. It was hard to be away from him but it was for the best while we unpacked the majority of the stuff.
The kitchen, his room, and our room were on the top of the list of things to get done before his arrival. The living room furniture was still in the back of the U-Haul as I wiped my brow when Gabi came back into the house. "Hey, how was the first trip to the store in Waco?" I questioned and she gave me a smile. "It was good. I got beer, a few snacks, and Knox's food." I grinned as I went into the kitchen to drop a kiss to her neck before grabbing a beer. We had been moving things in all day long and I was ready for a break. I collapsed down on top of the box next to me. "I do not want to unpack all of these boxes tomorrow," Gabi groaned as she grabbed her own beer.
She was in a pair of Nike running shorts with a tank-top as she looked absolutely delicious as she perked up on her calves to grab a glass to pour her beer into. "I know but we have each other and it will be fun because it is the two of us." I reminded her and she shot me a smile. "You are correct. We'll have to find our speaker and get it out. That way we can dance and unpack." I smiled and nodded, "Yea, we really should. I do want to watch you dance." I wiggled my eyebrows and Gabi shook her head with a laugh while she sat down on the box next to me.
Gabi gazed around our new house with her eyes lingering in different spots. "I really do love this house." She whispered as we bought this house. Our first house we bought together and it made me proud that we were able to do that. I rubbed my lips together as Gabi gave me a smile, "I think Knox is going to love it. Especially those stairs," I said nudging to the ones that went up to the second floor. Gabi rolled her eyes, "Baby gate needs to go on the list."
I smirked, "Already on it. I am also glad we are the only room on the main floor." I said wiggling my eyebrows at her and she pushed my shoulder. "Shut up, Knox will be living in the office room while he's little. It's just easier." I pouted. "No." Gabi shook her head as she ran her fingers through my hair and landed on my neck. "So…Hanson called me yesterday on our drive. He called some people and he thinks he can get me a job with Baylor doing PR. There wouldn't be long hours – I would be able to get Knox every evening and I would still be working with athletes. I would be working with athletes on how-to do-good PR, I would be helping with home events and coordinating but I won't be having to work those events unless in a jam."
Gabi smiled wide, "Seriously Troy? That sounds amazing! Even if you have to work events we'll start searching for a nanny or something to help with those days when he can't go to daycare or there are late nights. I just want to make sure it's not all the time." I nodded in complete understanding, "Yea it wouldn't be all the time. Most of the time it will be 9-5 but there will be some stuff. They know my situation and are more than happy to give me an interview. I wouldn't start until August."
She got up and planted herself in my lap as she wrapped her arms around my neck. "If it works for you then it works for me. I know you are just as much worried about Knox being with too many other people in his life. If it works out then great but if it doesn't then that's okay, too. I am proud of you for getting there though. You will be amazing at it." I smiled as I tugged on her ponytail before kissing her lips. "I love you and Knox and you are the most important to me."
Gabi blushed and I kissed her again as I sat my beer down and pulled her against me. "I can't wait to have sex all over this house," Gabi laughed at my comment and she shook her head. "When?" she questioned and I smirked. "We'll always make time." She shook her head while she played with my hair. "We have to find a new coffee shop. I don't know how long I can go without Rents." I smirked, "We'll start tomorrow. Until we find the one."
"Think they have morning fun?" Gabi laughed while kissing me quickly on the lips, "Did you ever think when I ran into you on campus that we would be right here?" she asked me and I smiled with a shake of my head. "No. I never thought this would happen. I wasn't sure where life was going to take me but I am so glad it's with you." I cupped her face with my hand as I kissed her, again. The boxes that were surrounding us in our first home together full of our things. We were going to add so many more things to this house, more memories, more precious time together. I squeezed her to my lap and kissed her cheek.
"I can't wait to do this with you," I whispered and she smiled at me as she stroked my cheek.
"There is nobody else I would ever want to do this with."
Hey guys! I hope you all enjoy this chapter! I can't believe there is only ONE more chapter after this. Where has the time gone?! It will be set in the future by a handful of years so I hope you all are excited to see where their life ends up! They are some of my favorite characters but their story is almost done.
I am *crossing fingers and toes* that I will be able to get the final chapter out before I start school. That is my goal. Let's just hope that I can get it done! Hahah
Thank you for all the love!
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