Chapter 21 – With Everything

Monday, August 9th, 2021

Gabi's POV

I couldn't stop my smile as I signed the dotted line on the paperwork to officially make The Sunshine Pact a legal non-profit. I had set up a bank account which I transferred all of the money that I made working with Troy into that account and I had spent more time with our new board over the past nine days than I have at the hospital or with my boyfriend. Troy wanted to ask what I was doing but I never said anything to him. He thought I was going to Philly.

I never corrected him. Bailey, Hannah, Rachel, Elliott, and Quinn all signed the thing as my official board members. Our first thing was to start up our care package to the kids. Each child was going to get a blanket in either bright colors or if they had a favorite theme that we could easily do. We wanted mostly to do bright colors to help with the Sunshine part of it. We would include a few little games, a book, and candy in the basket that each kid would get after diagnosis.

That was step one.

Step two was to get our parents a care basket with all the things they needed. I was leaving that up to the parents on the board to decide what it should all include. They would know best. Rachel was asking friends, boys and girls of all ages, what they would have liked in their basket.

The third thing was the parent pen pal thing. We weren't sure what we were going to call it yet but it was something that was going to start really small and work out. Our group all took a picture as our logo was finished, thanks to Rachel, and I couldn't be prouder of the concept. It had Ginny and Linny underneath the ray of Sunshine. They were both laying on their backs basking in the sun. They were each smiling at each other. It brought Bailey and Hannah to tears but later told me happy tears.

Elliott had reached out to a web design company to get our website up and running. Bailey was starting to find the best place to buy bulk of fabric. We were already planning on our first night of making blankets at the end of the month. Nobody but Bailey and Hannah knew of my relationship with Troy. I didn't want anybody to know until after everything was signed and the lines were dotted. He wasn't the driving force behind this.

"I got t-shirts made," Quinn started to pass out t-shirts and I couldn't stop my overwhelming emotions. "We can put these in the baskets, too. If we all like them," they were white with a big sun in the corner with our Ginny and Linny underneath. The Sunshine Pact scripted over the sun. "These are amazing," I whispered as I let my fingers trace the words. "Gabi, you made all of this happen so fast. I just…" Quinn shook her head. "Wren and Val both helped inspire me and with my recent contract – I came into a lot of money that I don't need. This is the perfect thing to use it for. I want to make a difference."

Everything was going live a week from today. I had talked to my educators and nursing directors as they all loved my idea. They were all so excited for it to go live and I smiled and also told them that I wanted to go part time. I wanted to focus my attention on both places. They all agreed and starting in September I would shift to part-time. We all put the shirts on and took pictures as I turned to Quinn. "I'm going to need an XL and a kid x-small." I said and Quinn just gave a gentle smile.

"I have an idea for a certain somebody," I laughed, "He has nothing to do with this. He has no idea that I am even doing this." Quinn just smiled, "Bailey told me about it. I will get them made and bring them to our next meeting on Wednesday." I just smiled and thanked her as I couldn't have been luckier to find better people to be on my side through this. I could only imagine the fundraisers, how far we could push this, and the help parents and kids could receive.

I also did in the future want to start a mentorship for hem-Onc nurses. First, it was about the kids and the family though. We all packed up and I made sure everything was done before I got into my car. Claire was handling her BMT so well and so much better than expected. Her immune system was already rebounding and they thought she could be heading home in the next two weeks. Troy had been busy with the final renovations on his house and I knew he wanted to say something – anything to get me to stay but he hadn't yet.

I got into my car as I sat back and I smiled. I was doing this damn thing. I was going to make a difference better than I could have ever made a difference before. I picked up the note that Troy left me the other day at my apartment after he had shown up and fallen asleep in my bed with me.

It was hard to leave your sleeping, peaceful body this morning. I'll be at the hospital all weekend but Monday? I love you big, El.

With Everything,

T

My fingers scrubbed against the with everything and I smiled.

Troy's POV

Tuesday, August 10th, 2021

I dropped back and launched the ball down the field with ease as we were preparing for our first pre-season game. I was only slotted to play the first two series but knowing that my girl was going to be here for that was enough to make me want to play my damn best. I felt good inside because my Claire bear handled her BMT like a motherfucking boss. She was already doing better and was in better spirits. There was talk about discharge in a couple of weeks and it made my heart soar with happiness.

My house was almost ready and I couldn't wait to get in there with Gabi. God, I hope she would stay. I had to say something but inside it caused an internal struggle. She had been so damn busy recently and I could only assume she was just trying to get ready to head to Philly. She was doing constant phone calls and talking to people. We barely had time to see each other but my schedule didn't help in the slightest. We were supposed to hang out last night but she had signed up for an extra shift this week at work.

"Good Bolton," Coach called and I just nodded as I got into more of a rhythm as we were destined for a good season. I bounced on my toes and continued with my work as we were almost done for the day and I had a press conference later this afternoon. I pulled my helmet off as I wiped the sweat off my face as I pushed off the conversation about my relationship with Gabi. Gabi didn't seem to be in a hurry to do it and I just…she was also up to something.

I couldn't put my finger on it but…I finished my work for the day as we were released back to the locker room. I went to make sure I had all of my film for the first few weeks and then took a quick shower. I was just happy that Gabi was going to be at the hospital when I was done. I pulled on my Adidas t-shirt with a pair of jeans while finishing my hair. "Troy," Mandy called my name and I nodded as I followed her.

She settled me into a chair and I thanked her as our communication director, Jeff, started pointing to people to ask questions. "Troy, how are you feeling for this season? You have had a turbulent off season. Your daughter was diagnosed with cancer, you and your wife got a divorce after she had a baby with another man – are you ready for the mentally taxing 17 weeks of football?" I slowly nodded my head, "Yea, I would say my off season didn't go as planned in any aspect. I was coming off a high from our post-season where we almost went to the super bowl to a very sick daughter to a not so fun divorce. I was able to do everything in my off season that I needed to do to be ready for this season though. Luckily, I have an amazing support system who helps take care of Claire and Boston Children's did a tremendous job taking care of her."

"Do you think this team can go to the Super Bowl this year?" I nodded, "Yes, we have worked hard. You can feel the energy around us at training camp and I can't wait to take the field in September. We have a lot to prove this year and I have a chip on my shoulder from people saying that I'm just not quite good enough. I plan on being one of the best this season. My O-line has my back and I am excited to get to it."

They moved on to the next reporter, "Troy, are you anxious also because you are supposed to be signing your deal next season?" I shook my head. "No. I am here to play football and be one of the best quarterbacks. I'm not stressed about the money. I am here to win a championship for Boston,"

The questions all varied like that for the most part. Asking how I prepared for the season, what I think we can improve on, and what our biggest challenges would be this season. "Troy, there is a rumor that you are already dating somebody. Is this true?" I blinked and I shook my head. "I may or may not be. I don't see how that is any of your business. I'm not doing anything serious though. I just got divorced." I bluntly lied. "There were pictures going around with you on a boat during 4th of July with a girl." I laughed, "There was a ton of people on that boat that day. I'm not dating anybody seriously at the moment. I am focused on football and my daughter. She is getting ready to come home after her bone marrow transplant. That is what is important to me right now."

I shot Mandy a look but her nose was already in the social media to see what she could find. The finished my press conference as I stood up and walked out as I made sure we were quite some feet away from that. Mandy followed me and she shook her head, "There is no picture of her face. It could be any girl but you are touching her back." Mandy said and I just nodded, "Okay, we all need to have a conversation about our relationship. It's much more complex than her being Claire's nurse."

"I know, Troy," Mandy stressed. "When is she going to be ready?" I sighed as I shrugged, "I don't know. I don't know because she might be going to Philly and I can't be worrying about her when she is in Philly." Mandy just nodded her head, "Talk to her. You two need to figure it out." I agreed as I went to the locker room and I packed my bag before putting my sunglasses on and heading out. I nodded towards Hanson, Reni, and Reggie as I passed them.

I hopped into my car as I was going straight towards the hospital. I drove out of the practice facility and grabbed my phone to see if there were any messages from anybody. Only one for my mom and Lucas. They were both asking me about stuff for this weekend. My parents were flying in and wanted to have dinner with Gabi and I to celebrate our relationship. Gabi's family was also coming up and I couldn't wait to see all of them. We were planning on going to my house and I would cater in dinner as that was going to be the safest option.

I was getting the keys and everything was being moved in Friday. The game was Saturday so we had planned it for Sunday afternoon. The pool would be open and it would be good for the family. We were going to have Sunday and Monday off from training camp which I had planned to spend with Claire in the hospital. We were all hoping she would be discharged soon but I wasn't rushing it. Eve and I needed to sit down and talk about what our new custody arrangement would be with each other.

Once I was on the hem-Onc floor I navigated to Claire's room and she was playing with a few toys while laughing with Val, her nurse. Eve had an appointment earlier today and there was only a thirty-minute gap between her leaving and my arriving. "Hi," I greeted and Claire shut me a huge grin. "Daddy!" I walked over and she wrapped her thin arms around my neck. "Hi sweet girl," I murmured into her ear. "Daddy! Gabi told me to tell you that my counts were really good today! I didn't need blood or platelets!" I just grinned, "Yea? That's so good." I pressed my lips to her cheek and she grinned, "Yea! She was happy for me daddy!"

I love her little excitement in her voice over something she shouldn't even know about. "Where is Gabi?" Val smiled, "She only worked a half shift today. She had some meetings this afternoon." I frowned, I seriously felt like she was never here. "She told me that she would see you tonight," I just rose my eyebrow at Claire. "Really now?" she nodded her head as she yawned and rested her head on my chest. "Are you sleepy?" I asked rocking her in my arms and she shook her head. "No." Val laughed as she cleaned up the toys on her bed. Claire yawned again and I chuckled, "I think otherwise," I sat on the bed as I laid back on her bed.

"I love you, baby," I whispered into her ear and she just let out a content sigh while burying her head into my shoulder. I relaxed back onto the bed and yawned myself as Val gave me an update on her day, her counts stalled out but they weren't too concerned. They expected her to be here a month from her transfer. We still had about another 15 days from that. They said she took to it quicker than most and wouldn't be surprised if there was a stall.

We had a big meeting on Monday about what her post bone marrow transplant life was going to look like at least for the next year. I was just glad I was dating one hell of a nurse.

Gabi's POV

I walked into the hospital in a pair of shorts and a t-shirt after another long day of meetings and making sure everything was perfect for the Sunshine Pact. Val had sent me a text when she was leaving that Troy was still here after arriving around four-thirty. I walked down to their room as it was in the corner and away from most people. I pushed open the door and I stopped on a dime as I couldn't stop the smile on my face.

Claire was curled up on her daddy as they were both passed out together. His arm wrapped around her protectively and a blanket draped over the both of them. I took a picture on my phone and I walked over as I brushed my fingers over his hair. He let those blue eyes lazily open and he smiled, "Do I know you?" I shook my head with a smile, "I'm sorry, I know, I just…" he shook his head as he reached his hand out and I locked our fingers together.

"I know," he whispered quietly and those blue eyes flickered to mine. My stomach twisted because I should spill but I had a plan. I just needed him to wait it out a few more days. "I'm just trying to make sure everything is just right," I told him and his eyes flickered to me. He studied my face and he nodded in understanding – or what he thought was understanding. He had to be assuming everything with school.

"Do you have a post-game ritual?" I questioned and he shook his head, "No. It depends on the game. Why?" I squeezed his hand and smiled, "Because I have a thing planned for the both of us. Just the two of us after the game on Saturday." He arched an eyebrow and nodded his head, "Okay. Any hints?" she shook her head. "No. You will just have to wait." I bent over as I gave him a quick kiss and then pulled up a chair to the bed.

"We need to talk about how we want to handle our relationship. The press asked me today who I was dating because they saw a picture of your back on the boat at 4th of July." I frowned heavily this time, "Do they know it's me?" Troy shook his head, "No. I said I wasn't dating anybody seriously. That Claire and football was my priority. We have time but I want to set the narrative. I don't need people finding out you were Claire's nurse and never understanding that I've loved you since I was 17."

"I understand, I just…" I exhaled as I looked at him, "Just give me until Saturday. Okay? Just…give me that much." He really scrunched his face this time. He gently moved Claire off of him into the bed. "Gabi, what is going on? I am talking about our future," his voice was stressed and almost upset as I grabbed his hand. "I want our relationship and I want to explain it all but I have to do this, Troy. You know how you didn't want the girl who was a trophy wife? I'm trying to prevent that. I am trying to prevent that before we become something really serious. I'm not ready to talk about it yet. I have this plan and I need you to just go with it."

His face flinched and he hesitated, "Gabi, does this have to do with leaving for Philly?" I didn't answer him. I just stared at him and he closed his eyes as he rubbed his face. He opened his mouth and I shook my head. "No. Please, just…wait. I know what you want to say and I just want you to wait. We are okay," I pressed my hand to his face and I leaned into him. "We are going to be okay and I have nothing but our relationship at the forefront of my brain. I want you to go kick ass on Saturday with your two series and then I want to share something with you."

He pressed his forehead to mine. "I love you and I need you to trust me, please," I whispered to him and he just slowly nodded his head. His eyes held mine, "I know I shattered you but I can't handle it back, Gabi. I can't." I squeezed his neck and kissed his cheek. I didn't say anymore or any less. His arm wrapped around me and I let him hold me. I needed this to be perfect first and I needed to explain to him how little I wanted his help with this – for now.

"I love you," I murmured into his ear and he kissed me. "I love you, too."

Troy gripped my hip and I kissed his head, "I will see you, Friday." I told him. His eyes snapped up to me, "Why not before?" I laughed, "Because you have some serious time with your daughter that is needed before you are gone all weekend and I have to work two more days and a day full of meetings."

"That doesn't mean I can't be in your bed." I shook my head again, "No, sir, I promise. The wait is going to be worth it."

"Friday is the first night at my house, I have to sleep at the team hotel though." I smiled, "I'll supervise the move in for you. Does that work?" Troy nodded his head, "Yea, that would be nice and helpful so that I can be here for Claire. I don't know how much time I have on Friday." My hand framed his face again and I kissed his forehead. "That will make Saturday all the more special."

Wednesday, May 27th, 2015

Troy's POV

I hadn't done anything but lay in my bedroom since it had become official. I was going to Alabama. When I came home and explained everything to my parents – they were shocked and speechless. I inhaled as my mom walked into the room and she sat on the edge of my bed. "Troy, honey, you have barely left this room. What is Gabi doing?" she asked and I exhaled sitting up. I let my hands lock with each other and I shook my head. "She was out of town all weekend and I told her that I wasn't feeling well."

"You need to tell her." My mom said quietly and I shook my head as I couldn't stop the overwhelming emotion again. "She is going to hate me. She is going to think that I've lied and deceived her. She is going to hate me, mom." My mom rubbed my back as I leaned into her. "Why don't you just talk to her? Tell her the whole story?" I shook my head. "I don't want her to come with me, mom," I admitted out loud and my mom blinked in confusion.

"Why? She would probably happily follow you." I gave a grim smile, "That's why, mom. She will happily follow me and I want her to have her own life. I want her to make friends and find her passion in life. She doesn't know what she wants to do yet and if she follows me to Alabama…I'm scared she won't try. That she will hate me later. That she is leaving her dream school. She really wants to go to UNC; her eyes are so bright talking about her dorm room and her roommate."

I brushed my fingers through my hair and I stared ahead, "She is my people helping girl, she is the girl who wants to do good for this world. I want her to spread her wings and fly." My mom didn't say anything and I shook my head. "I want to tell her and ask her to come with me but that isn't what she wants. I chose UNC because it was the best solution for everybody. It was closer to you. It was closer to home. It was going to be what Gabi needed because she loves North Carolina."

"Troy, I really think you should just talk to her and let her decide what she wants to do. Maybe she has to wait a year before coming to Alabama but don't you think you would both be happier going together?" I didn't say anything because yea, I would be a fuck ton happier if she came with me. "I don't want her to regret it. I don't want her to hate me one day." I told my mom. "And I feel like no matter what I do – she's going to hate me."

My mom squeezed my shoulder, "I think you need to let Gabi decide that."

"What if I force her to Alabama and she hates it there? She has no friends? What if she is miserable and I am so busy with football? I don't want that life for her. I don't want that for her. I want her to find her passion and be the best at it." My mom didn't say anything again and I just leaned into her as she rubbed my back like any good mom would do. "You and Gabi have a relationship I would have never expected in high school from either of you. You both really do love each other and at first, I wasn't sure but…you both want what is best for each other. I understood your compromise at UNC and I understood why you are going to leave. I think she would understand you having to leave. I also understand what you are saying about your and her future." She paused and I looked up at her.

"You want the very best for her and that is something that you don't see in young relationships. It's typically pretty selfish but you want her to be the best and have the best life. You don't know if she will get that at UNC without you or at Alabama with you. You don't know and you have to let her decide that. Unless, you are just sure. Unless you really know what, you want to do in this situation…" I shook my head. "I don't like either option. I don't like it. I don't want to force her into a decision."

"Don't avoid her though, that will only make it all worse."

"I don't know how to look at her and not just…feel this undesired hatred for myself."

"You are a good man, Troy. You will find the right thing to do and if it isn't the right thing – it will work itself out in the future."

I didn't say anything back because I didn't know what to say. It was such an awful situation. I hated it. I wanted it to all go away. I wanted Gabi to just understand. I threw myself back on my bed and I looked at my phone which was a picture of the two of us at the State Championship just grinning at each other. What I wouldn't give to go back to right there.

Gabi's POV

Friday, August 13th, 2021

I watched as the moving company was moving in Troy's and my stuff into his house. Troy had no idea I had contacted them to load up what I wanted from my apartment to bring over here and the rest was going to storage for now until I figured out what was best. He wasn't going to be here until tomorrow night and by then he would know. I couldn't wait to tell him. I hated that I was keeping it a big secret from him but I just needed this to be mine.

Everything was done and our first kid and parent basket was completed and to be handed out on Monday. We were discussing when to give the baskets out – first impatient chemo or after diagnosis. Our biggest hold up after diagnosis is that it is such a whirlwind and there is so much information thrown at you. Sometimes the first impatient chemo is right after diagnosis but not always. It had been a debate among the board and one that I had taken to Wren and Val. We were all pretty split on the idea.

My phone buzzed as my entire family was coming into town tonight. Troy was already at the hospital and was heading to the team hotel at 7 to get dinner and then go to bed before their day game tomorrow. "Hi mom," I greeted as I pointed a box to a room. I wandered upstairs as I paused in Claire's room.

"Hi sweetie, how are you doing?" I grinned, "Good. I'm really good mom." She didn't say anything for a moment and I could hear her getting emotional. "I wasn't ever sure you would sound like that again. Like my little girl who loved life." I just laughed, "I have been doing amazing things. I promise I will fill you in on everything Sunday when we do a family dinner. The Bolton's will be happy to see you again."

"Your sisters cannot wait to see Troy," I just laughed because I knew they all loved my boyfriend. I loved him too. "They have to remember to keep us off social media. Nobody knows and we haven't discussed how we want to handle the media."

"We've all talked about it. They want to protect your privacy as well." I smiled because I loved my family and I was so excited that they were all coming up here. "I am overseeing the move in for Troy, I will call you later tonight. Are we still getting dinner after your plan lands?" I asked. "Yes! We will meet you at the restaurant by the hotel." I agreed as I hung up the phone and I looked over Claire's room. It was a dream of a little girl's room.

The walls were all white with a pink boho rainbow painted where her bed would go on the wall. Her pink bedding was sitting against the wall that I had picked out for Troy with the help of Claire. She had a white swing in the corner that was hanging from the ceiling that had pink and white pillows with a soft blanket in it. Her bathroom was completely pink and her furniture was all a light wood. It was beautiful. She was going to love it with all of her toys in here.

I ventured to Troy's room, well, our room but he just doesn't know it yet. His bed was already pressed up against the beige wall. The bedding in a box somewhere. His wood dresser and night stands flanking the walls. His interior designer had gotten a picture of him and Claire blown up and put above the bed as they were both grinning at each other. A TV on the opposite wall with a mirror on another wall.

My boxes were sitting in the corner as I went over and decided to just pick a side of the closet. I slowly put all of my stuff away before I tackled his stuff. I had taken a picture of his closet before I left to make it seem similar at least. Once the closet felt full, I went downstairs as people were unpacking the kitchen and the living room. It paid off to have money as he didn't have to lift a pinky. He only grabbed his stuff that he didn't want other people to see or have.

My phone rang again, this time, it was Troy. He was facetiming me and I smiled, "Hi," I said answering the phone as it connected. His blue eyes and smile took hold as he was in his car. "I don't get to talk to Claire?" I asked offended and he laughed, "Sorry. She slept most of the time anyways. How is everything going at the house?"

"Great. Everything is getting unpacked and put together. It looks beautiful," I told him as I leaned against the couch. "Good. I'm heading to the team hotel. Do you need me to swing by?" I shook my head with a laugh, "One, it is not on your way. Two, I know you miss me but you have my undivided attention tomorrow night." Troy exhaled with a smile on his lips, "Good. I do miss you." I gave him another smile, "I miss you, too."

We finished out our conversation and I smiled hanging up, knowing, that he was going to be happy tomorrow.

Saturday, August 14th, 2021

Gabi's POV

I settled into the suite that Troy had reserved for our families today. Hanson and Reni's families were also in here as I was meeting more and more people among the organization. I was sitting next to Gigi and Scarlett as they were discussing something. I was too busy scrolling on my phone as they were getting ready to take the field. Troy wasn't playing much tonight and I told him I would meet him back at his house. I was going to make dinner for the both of us.

He nodded because it wasn't like I could go down to the field and hug him and take pictures. He didn't talk to me much today but he had been up early and working with the team. Lucas came over and squeezed my shoulders, "Are you making him happy? He's been grumpy lately." I just laughed. "That's just with you I think." I joked tilting my head back to look at him. Gianni laughed as Lucas rolled his eyes. "No, he hasn't been that happy with me but I've been busy. I promise, he's getting my full attention tonight."

Lucas grimaced, "Ew, I didn't need that much information."

"What do you think keeping him happy means?" Gigi questioned and Scarlett laughed. "Fine, whatever, that is partially what I meant. I just didn't need you to say anything extra. You're my sister now." I just smiled, "That man has a long way to go for that. I think we should give us time to date again and see if I can handle the media circus." Sophia laughed, "Gabs, you will be as cool as a cucumber." I wasn't sure about that but I knew I could handle it. I just wasn't going to promise much of anything beyond dating right now.

"He would probably propose tonight if he knew you would say yes," I just laughed with a shake of my head, "I think the ink on his divorce papers needs to dry first." I shot back and Lucas grinned, "I knew I loved you." I just shook my head as I went outside to sit next to Marco, Sara, and my parents. Sophia popped out and she sat in front of me. "Are you ready to make this home in January?" I asked her and she nodded her head with a smile. "I am. I'm sad you aren't going not be here though." I just smiled.

"Where are you going?" Marco asked, almost with alert, I didn't say anything but my mom piped up. "She has an opportunity in Philly to become an NP with an emphasis in pediatric oncology." Marco raised an eyebrow, "That is quite impressive. Are you going to be gone long?" he asked. "18 months," my dad provided and I just smiled with a shrug. "Troy and I have talked about it." I ventured. "We're going to stay together and make long distance work."

"Shame that he didn't do that the first time," I shot out and Sara grinned with a laugh, "He deserves that." The team took the field and I quickly spotted my number 14. He was throwing some warm up passes and I felt the goosebumps travel down my arm in excitement to watch him play football again. The same man who taught me football and made me fall in love with it. I let my hands rest on the railing and I couldn't stop my smile watching him.

I snuck a picture of him as the PA announcer was getting the crowd riled up a pre-game session. The crowd was half full and the day was still young. They were opening up against the Washington Football Team. "Gabi, how has work been since going back?" Sara asked. "Good! I have enjoyed being back on the floor. I loved my time with Claire but I was happy to be back. Now some of my best friends are taking care of her since we're in a relationship."

"Oh good! I miss that little girl. I'm sad she can't be here tonight." I gave a soft smile, "Troy is going to hate that she needs to avoid crowds for quite some time with her bone marrow transplant." Marco gave a half sigh, "He'll probably try to find a way around it." I laughed, "Oh I know, he likes to do that." Washington was first up on offense as I settled back and enjoyed my time with my family. I had only planned to stay for the first half.

Once Troy took over on offense I sat up and I just watched him as they all ran out there. They were in all navy tonight and I couldn't take my eyes off his nice ass and his perfect build. His offense huddled together and I just couldn't stop staring as he was so much better. The last game I watched him play was the high school championship and he just held himself so much better. I couldn't hear from here but I knew how his voice could be commanding. They did a running play first and moved the ball down the field.

Troy did a pass play next and the ball flew out of his hands with such grace. I just shook my head, "He's amazing," I whispered and Marco laughed. "He told me you never watched him after high school." I shook my head. "No, I didn't. I couldn't but wow."

"He worked his ass off, that's for sure. He wanted to prove a lot of people wrong."

My eyes wouldn't leave him and I just shook my head. He didn't stop amazing me.

Troy had sent me a text that he was on his way to the house nearly thirty minutes ago. He had to be close. I was anxious because I wasn't sure how this night was going to unfold but the dinner was done and I played with the rings on my fingers. The front door opened and I turned to see Troy in a pair of jeans with a t-shirt and a smile on his face. He only did his two series and cheered on his teammates.

His eyes took me in and he grinned, "Wow, you are a sight for sore eyes." He walked over and he picked me up. His body squeezed mine and I just inhaled the smell of him. "The house looks amazing," he said as he let go and took inventory and I nodded in agreement. "Yea, it really does look amazing." Troy smiled as he planted a kiss to my head. "Is dinner done or do I have five minutes? I want to run upstairs." I just nodded as he ran upstairs and I nervously paced Oh, I hope I didn't fuck this up.

Troy was gone for only three minutes before he called my name. "Gabs? What is this?" I hesitated as I could hear his feet coming down the stairs and he stood at the bottom as his eyes held mine. There was so much hope in his eyes. "What is that closet?" he questioned and I just blinked, "All of your stuff is in there. It's in the bathroom. Your stuff." I just slowly nodded my head as he was almost gasping for a breath. "What does that mean?" he asked me and I just shrugged, "What do you want it to mean?" I whispered and he took four steps forward as his hands cupped my face.

"I want that to mean you are moving in with me, at least, for when you are in Boston." I just nodded my head with a slow smile, "As long as you don't care," he let out a laugh and his lips dropped to mine in a hungry kiss. "Seriously?" he whispered; I just nodded my head as I locked my arms around his neck. "Seriously, I want you to know how serious I am about doing this relationship again. My lease was up and…" I exhaled with a shrug as he just kissed me hard this time. His lips a force to be reckoned with and I couldn't breathe.

"Let's eat dinner," I told him and I tugged on his hand as I guided him to the outside patio where the lights were on and the dinner was set. "Wow, that just made my entire day. I can't believe you pulled that off. No wonder you wanted to be there to help yesterday," I laughed with a nod as I sat down and so did Troy. He poured us each a glass of wine and we both dug into our food. I asked him how he felt on the field and how everything went today.

"It was nice watching you play again," I told him and he smiled, "Miss it?" I nodded my head up and down. "I really did. I missed football and watching you play." Troy squeezed my hand as he took a bite of food and then a drink of wine. Once we were both finished, I went over and I sat in his lap. His arms locked around me and I pressed my lips to his softly. "So, I want to tell you about my last several weeks." I told him.

"I want to know what has been keeping you so busy." I stroked his face, "You have to how much I love helping people and I've always had the want and the need to do something more than what I was doing as a nurse which I know is amazing but I needed something else. That's where NP school came from and I figured that was my next path to be more helpful. After we started our relationship back up again somebody mentioned that they thought I could do more." I paused as I watched his face.

"So, I had an idea and I held a meeting with two former patients' mothers. Ginny and Linny both passed away in the last six months and I knew they would be helpful. They met me for lunch and we talked and talked about all the ideas before walking away we had decided, I decided, I wanted to open a non-profit to help cancer families. We were going to bring something to the cancer floor that needed to be there. Hannah told me that I was the sunshine on the floor." Troy blinked slowly and he smiled, "We all knew that." I just smiled as I took a sip of my wine. "In that – we figured why not make bright blankets for the kids and then provide a comfort basket for the parents? We even decided to start a little support group – pair each parent with a former parent to have somebody who just…understands. That is starting small but all of these ideas started spinning and I asked them to be on my board."

Troy sat up and I squeezed his shoulder, "I was so inspired and we invited two more parents and a former cancer patient onto the board and we have been having all of these meetings and all of the ideas and trying to get everything started. It's been a passion of mine to do something bigger and I think this could become huge if we do it right and I want to do it right. I want to bring sunshine to the floors and I want to help train new hem-Onc nurses on how do an amazing job and also spread sunshine and I just…I have all of these ideas for this little non-profit."

"Gabi, this sounds incredible. Why did you wait to tell me?" he asked and it wasn't accusing – just wonder. "Because I don't want this to become big because you are the love of my life. I want this to become big because I put the work and effort into it. That's why I keep pushing on announcing our relationship and that's why I didn't tell you because I wanted all of this to be done and you couldn't help me. It's done. The first baskets are made and we're just…ready to start the whole thing and I am so excited." Troy just laughed and he hugged me tightly to his chest. "I'm so proud of you, I knew you could do big things, El."

I battled back the tears as I stared at him, "It's called the Sunshine Pact." Troy closed and he just smiled with a shake of his head. "I am proud of you." I laughed as I brushed my tears away. "It goes live Monday and we have a strong push for campaign. I am excited to do all of it and I can't wait to tell more people and just…reach as many people as I can with this. I want to bring them so much more and comfort."

"I know you will." Troy's smile was soft and I knew there was something bugging him. "You are going to do such amazing things, El." I smiled as I pressed my forehead against his. I knew what he wanted to say but he was holding himself back because he was that person. "Just say it," I whispered knowing exactly what was running through his mind. He just shook his head, "I can't." I shook my head again. "Troy, I want you to say it." His blue eyes held a form of sadness inside of them and I gripped his neck gently.

"You are going to be so busy with school and your non-profit and my football schedule…I want you to stay with me. Forget NP school. You're an amazing bedside nurse and this is going to take off and I just…I want you to stay. Please, I didn't ask you last time. I didn't ask you to come with me but I am asking, I am going to beg, this time that you just stay." He paused for a moment and his eyes connected with mine. "Stay, please," We both had tears in our eyes and I nodded my head, "Yes, I'll stay." I whispered back and his blue eyes looked at me in shock. His fingers gripped my body as he just stared at me.

"I'm staying," I whispered to him and he pulled me into a bone crushing hug as I couldn't stop my sobs. "I withdrew almost three weeks ago. I wanted all of this done first and I just…" I swallowed as Troy brushed my tears away. "I love you so much, I just…you are going to do big and amazing things. You don't need more education to do that." I pressed my lips to his and I smiled into the kiss. "We're doing this together, Bolton." He smiled against my mouth and our kiss was slow and soft until it grew hungry and with more need.

He picked me up and he carried me inside and up to our bedroom. He easily dropped me down onto the bed before stalking back over my body, "Say it again," he whispered and I smiled as I let my hand run behind his neck and I squeezed it. "I'm staying," I whispered. "I'm not leaving. We're doing this together." He closed his eyes and he kissed me again. "I have one more thing for you," I whispered as I raised my arms. He scrunched his eyebrows together but Troy happily obliged to lift my shirt off. He tossed it to the floor and he scrunched his eyes at the bandage under my collar bone but above my heart. The wrinkles on his forehead made me smile as he tried to figure it all out.

"What happened?" he asked and I gave a half smile, "Just pull it off." I told him and his eyes lifted to mine as he was so gentle as he gently pulled the tape off. My eyes watched his face closely as his eyes morphed and turned as they registered to what he was reading. His eyes grew wet as he blinked a few times as he tried to process it. "El," he breathed and I felt my eyes well with tears as his fingers were so gentle on the tender spot of skin. "Somebody once told me that I would know what tattoo I wanted one day and…I finally found it."

His own eyes blinked a couple of times as he traced the, with everything, that was done in Troy's handwriting. "I promise you, Troy Bolton, with everything, that I am 100% in this relationship. I don't know where our future will go but I truly hope you are by my side. We've made similar promises before and I really fucking hope that we can keep them this time." Troy kissed the spot and then my forehead and then down to my lips.

"With everything, baby, I wasn't going to let you go without a fight." He took my bra off and then ditched his shirt. Our bodies pressed together and our bodies folded and molded together. I couldn't stop any of this if I wanted, too. Troy couldn't stop kissing my tattoo and when we both ditched our pants, he slid into me without effort. His groan vibrated the room, "Say it," he whispered and I just held him closer to me, "I'm staying, I'm going to live in this big house with you and Claire and I'm going to," I had to stop as he slammed into me and I couldn't breathe until he kissed my neck. "I'm going to run The Sunshine Pact and be a fantastic nurse and I'm going to love you every single day," I finally finished and Troy hit me hard again for my body to spasm and coil together. Troy wasn't far behind me.

Yes, I wasn't regretting any of my decisions.

Troy's POV

My fingers traced her tattoo as the whole day had been nothing but amazing. The first game, seeing my family, coming home to find out that she moved into my house without my knowledge, she was starting a non-profit, she was staying, and she got a tattoo with my handwriting. I couldn't breathe with how happy I was with how everything unfolded today. I played really well, granted, it was just a few series but still.

Gabi stirred under my touch as her eyes fluttered open. Her brown eyes were sated and happy as they closed again. "When did you get this?" I asked her quietly and she smiled again, "Wednesday. It kinda hurt but it was well worth it." She stretched her body out and then molded herself to me. "Do you know how happy you made me today?" she kissed my chest and I breathed, "I don't deserve half of what you are giving me but I am so thankful. I am so thankful that you aren't going to school which sounds awful,"

She shook her head as she propped herself up, "No, don't. So many people asked me over and over again why I was becoming an NP and I couldn't answer any of them except for that it was the next step. I wouldn't have liked it. I hate paperwork and I hate having to be on the phone and I don't know. I just wasn't going to love it. I knew that but I didn't know what to do with my life. I couldn't find a man who loved like you and I felt stagnant. It was the next step but the moment that I thought of The Sunshine Pact…it felt…right. That felt right. You were back in my life and I can stay here. I can work the foundation and I can raise money and I can…" she couldn't stop talking like earlier and I just smiled watching her.

"I want to donate," Gabi shook her head back and forth. "No. Not yet. Plus, you pretty much started the foundation. I took all the money you paid me for working with Claire to start it. I will accept a donation from you and Claire one day but I need this to get off the ground first. I want to do this. I know how much you support me and how much you want to make sure that I succeed but I want to do this. Let me get this started and on the one-year anniversary you can donate, okay? If we're still around."

I just smiled with a shake of my head, "You will still be around. I really am proud of you." Her brown eyes stared at me and her fingers brushed through my hair. Our eyes connected and I nibbled on her lower lip as she just laughed. I smiled, "How long do you want to remain anonymous?" I asked her and she sighed, "Can we give it until like a month? I just…I just want to get this off the ground before my life becomes a media storm."

"Let's sit down with Mandy and talk about it next week, how does that sound? Just talk about what we should do and how we should do it. I don't want to mess anything up for you but I also can't hide you forever. I love you way too fucking much to do that." She sat up and I watched her naked body move as she slowly climbed into my lap. The sheet falling off both of us as her arms locked around my neck. She kissed me this time and I just held onto her, too scared that she was going to evaporate into thin air.

"Also…I'm not getting ahead of myself but I do know that I am going to marry you and I just need to know how much time you need." Gabi tilted her head back in a laugh and I kissed her throat. "I don't know, maybe a year?" I grunted as I kissed her again, "A year from when?"

"We started dating again," I shook my head as I kissed her again, "Too long," Gabi just laughed, "Then why are you asking me?" she questioned and I smiled, "Because I would do it right now if you wouldn't murder me." Gabi just laughed while brushing her hands through my hair. "I don't think going from one marriage to another will work. I think Mandy will even tell you that." I gave a half smile and I did agree with that statement. "How about at least a year from you when you walked into my life again?" I asked her and she shook her head, "That means we wouldn't be getting married until the following off season anyways so…."

Gabi laughed, "You really have been thinking about all of this." I just shot her a grin, "Yea, because I'll be honest. I want another kid. I was really fucking sad when that baby wasn't mine because I was so excited to have another baby. I love Claire so damn much. She is so amazing and I want that with you because I can only imagine how much better it is going to be with you, the overall experience. Not the love I have for Claire. That will always be sky high. How much more love and how much more…amazing the whole experience would be. That's not the reason I want to be married to you either. I want to be married to you because I knew I was supposed to be married to you at 17. Because you are the only girl for me. My forever girl. I made a lot of dumb mistakes along the way but…I knew you were it." She just smiled as her lips brushed mine.

"I mean, I don't need to be married to have a baby." Gabi said and I just shook my head, "No, I'm doing it the right way this time. Unless you refuse to marry me then well…" Gabi just laughed and she kissed me again. "But I am not opposed to a honeymoon baby," we both laughed together as Gabi shook her head. "You are really jumping the gun," she whispered and I smiled, "You moved in. I'm just seeing how long I can wait or how long I have to wait."

She kissed me again and this time there was no stopping. I pressed her back into the bed and this time I went nice and slow. I knew I had a lifetime of this with her but I wasn't ever going to take it for granted.

OHHHH…what do we think?! Sorry, I worked all last night and tonight so I slept all day today! Forgive me!

Let me know ALL of your thoughts! One of my FAVORITE chapters!

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Next Update: January 3rd (we're taking a slight pause for the holidays. I work a ton and just have a lot going on. We'll resume in the new year!)