Chapter 2 – Grand Opening

Friday, September 11th, 2020

Gabi's POV

I took the phone call as I wrote down my ideas for this social media campaign for a local shop but I was truly just thinking about this weekend. I was thinking about our big grand opening. I was thinking about Brady and Ada's wedding where my little babes would ride in wagon down the aisle for the flower girl and ring bear. It was a practice round for them because they would be doing it again in our wedding.

My eyes surveyed the city as Marisa knew my time here was winding down because I couldn't hide that I was opening up a dance studio. I promised her she had me till the end of the year and she just was happy that I was chasing my dreams. Annie knew as well and she kept giving me sad looks. I told her she could come work at the dance studio as our receptionist but the pay wasn't going to be nearly as good.

She told me maybe someday.

I missed my babies.

Troy was already at the rehearsal dinner trying to get everything ready for Ada and Brady. I was in charge of picking up the babies and meeting him there and I wanted to go now. I missed my fiancée, I missed my babies, I just wanted to get out of here already. To say that my mind was mentally here would be a bold face lie. Once I finished my phone conversation, I picked up my phone to call Annie. "Hey, what's up? Do you need something?"

"Do I have anything else on my schedule this afternoon?" I asked as it was just now three. I couldn't wait two more hours. Annie smiled at her desk before looking over at me, "No. Your schedule is wide open. Do you want me to field your calls?" I just let a smile slip over my face and I nodded my head. "Yes, please, I want to go get my babies." Annie just nodded in agreement as I finished a few emails and packed up for the day. I put my stuff in my bag, grabbed my pumped breast milk, and headed for the door. "Thank you," I whispered to her and she just nodded as I went down to my car.

My phone buzzed and it was conveniently daycare.

"Hello?" I answered and I could hear Saylor crying in the background. My heart ached knowing that she was having a rough day. "Ms. Montez, Saylor spiked a fever. We believe it's just her teeth but she is inconsolable and with a fever – she might also be coming down with something. Troy told us this morning that you were picking them up today so I called you first." I closed my eyes painfully at that statement because I prayed it was just her teeth. "I was actually getting ready to come get the babies. I'll be there in about twenty minutes."

"Sounds good, I'm so sorry Ms. Montez," I nodded my head as I hung up the phone and quickly called the peds office because we had such a busy weekend. I was able to sneak her into the office at the top of the hour. I rang Troy next and he answered quickly with a laugh, "Hey baby, I figured you would be working still."

"I left early because I miss my babies. As I was leaving, they called and said that Say spiked a fever and was inconsolable." Troy groaned, "No, she can't be getting sick. We have such a big weekend." I brushed my fingers through my hair. "I know, I know but she can't help it. I am going to pick them up now, take them to the peds office, and then I'll head your way unless I just have to skip the rehearsal dinner and take them home for a bath and a good night's sleep."

"I want you to come, I want them to come," Troy protested and I laughed, "I do too but I would like to be more involved tomorrow. I want to have a fun day on the wedding. I'll let you know after the doctor's appointment."

"Are you sure you don't need back up?"

"No, no, stay with your brother. Help set up for tomorrow. I will call you later. I love you,"

"I love you, too, call me if you need anything." I agreed as I hung up the phone and I cruised into daycare which was right by the high school. Jesse was walking out of the door with Noah in his arms and he saw me get out of the car. He grimaced, "Sorry Gabs, she's pissed in there." I groaned as I pulled my hair to the top of my head. "They called me and warned me. I already have a doctor's appointment for her."

"Do you want me to take Sutton? I can take him home with me. I know you guys have the rehearsal dinner tonight." Jesse offered and I hesitated, "You wouldn't mind? I'll come get him after her appointment." Jesse laughed with a shake of his head, "Of course I don't mind. I'll get Noah settled in the car while you go grab those two." I nodded as I hustled inside and I could hear her screams from here. I grimaced as they badged me into the back and I made my way to the infant room in the back.

I slipped the door open as Saylor was being held as she wiggled and cried. Ms. Delaney spotted me and gave me a brief smile as she handed me Saylor. "Oh, baby girl," I whispered as I rocked her in my arms and she pressed her face into my chest and then was trying to nurse. I couldn't stop my laugh as I just bent down to put her in her car seat as they helped me get Sutton wrangled into his seat. I paused to picked up his chubby hand and he giggled and kicked his legs.

"Hi buddy, I'm glad you are in a good mood." I whispered and he just gave me his big cheeky smile and I shook my head as I grabbed their backpack that they already packed with their dirty bottles and clothes for the day. "Sorry, Gabi," I shook my head. "It's okay. She's been teething and I'm not surprised." They helped me out the door as Saylor seemed to calm down slightly but was still crying. I made it outside where Jesse was waiting to grab Sutton's car seat.

"Are you positive? I have two bottles in my backpack that you can take." I told him. He nodded as he was already getting his car seat buckled in the back of his car. I latched Saylor in the back of the car but I already planned on nursing her before we left. I handed Jesse two bottles and told him the last time he ate. "Thank you so much, Jesse. I will call you the moment I'm done." He just smiled with a nod. "I would do anything for you guys. You would do the same for Noah. I got him." I thanked him and hugged him.

He got in the car as I went into the back seat as I got Saylor out and I let her nurse in the back for as long as she needed but it wasn't very long. She calmed herself down but was having a hard time wanting to eat. I just held her and rocked her in the back of the car. Once she started to fall back asleep, I shot a picture of her and sent it to Troy as I tucked her back into her car seat. I had just enough time to get to the appointment as I carried her, physically in my arms, inside as I checked in for the appointment and they got us right back. I just rocked her in my arms as her hair was sticking up from sweating and crying.

One of the doctors in the practice, Dr. Miles, walked in and he took one look at the two of us with a half-smile. "Looks like somebody is having a rough day," I nodded my head because he knew that she wasn't my clingy one. "She was screaming at day care. She's been teething but I'm nervous it's something else. She also spiked a fever, didn't drink that much today, but has had plenty of wet diapers." I told him and he nodded.

"You can continue to hold her, will you just come sit with her here?" I nodded as I slid on the table and he peeked in her mouth first and she woke up to wiggle but he let go before picking up the otoscope and peering in her ears. He grimaced, "Somebody has a gnarly ear infection," I groaned. "We have a wedding, I'm having my grand opening, and we're supposed to be at the rehearsal dinner tonight," Dr. Miles let out a small laugh, "I would just take it easy tonight. She might feel better tomorrow after starting antibiotics."

I rubbed my forehead as she barely woke up during the transaction. "I'll get her antibiotics sent to our pharmacy. They should be ready by the time you walk out." I thanked him as he finished up and I sent Troy a frowny face and a picture of her sleeping against me.

Troy: Poor baby girl – she looks exhausted.

Gabi: Ear infection. I'm probably taking her home and letting her just sleep and nurse for the night. I'm so sorry, T

I put my phone in the back pocket as I stood up and walked into the lobby as I paid for the medicine and then out to the car. I laid Saylor down and she buckled in without moving. I kissed her little forehead when my phone started to ring. "Hey," I said quietly as I gently shut the door. "An ear infection? My poor baby girl, is she doing, okay?" I shook my head. "She's a mess. She fell asleep in my arms and they luckily didn't make me a move her. I have antibiotics. We'll start Tylenol when I get home. Hopefully she'll be ready for tomorrow."

Troy groaned, "Are you sure you can't make it?"

"I just don't think so. I want her to rest and she's not a happy camper." Troy didn't speak for a moment and he sighed, "I'll bust out of here early."

"Do not. You get to have fun and enjoy the night with your brother. We're going to be okay. Give Ada and Brady a hug for me and tell them I will see them early tomorrow morning." Troy agreed and we hung up as I called Jesse and he told me he would just bring Sutton over when they went to dinner. I thanked him as I headed home and tackled the hard job of giving Saylor both Tylenol and amoxicillin.

She cried and wiggled away but I let her eat after that and just lounged on the couch with her but she fell asleep after a few minutes. We didn't move for the longest time until Jesse text me that he was here. I put Saylor down in the swing as I went to the door to retrieve Sutton. Jesse smiled as I opened the door, "How is Miss Sass?"

"She's okay, has an ear infection. She's finally sleeping and hopefully she'll sleep for a little bit as I give him dinner and get him ready for bed."

"No rehearsal dinner?" I shook my head. "No, I am just going to make it up to them tomorrow. Saylor needs rest and her mama," Jesse smiled, "Sutton was amazing and just played on the floor. Is Troy already there?" I nodded my head, "He went early. He left work at noon." Jesse nodded as I put Sutton's car seat on the ground and I pulled him out of it as I snuggled him up. "Call me if you need anything. Any of us." I smiled, "Thanks, Jesse,"

I took Sutton to the living room as I laid him on the floor surrounded by his toys. I pulled out their left-over lunch stuff this week and made them both dinner. Saylor woke up and I put her in the high chair but she just cried the entire time as her brother happily ate. Saylor just threw food to Luna who very much enjoyed every single minute of it. I finally just held her while Sutton finished his food. I left the mess and took them both upstairs and into bath time.

Saylor wanted nothing to do with being set down and tried to crawl out of the bathtub. "Saylor, baby," I whispered as I bathed Sutton. She just sat there crying. Sutton reached out to touch his sister and his face, those brown eyes, looked over at me with concern. "I know buddy, sissy doesn't feel good."

I did my best to get through their routine without messing too much up. I rocked them in the chair as they nursed but Saylor wouldn't focus. I put her down and I then laid Sutton down. "Good night sweet boy," I kissed his forehead before I walked out of the room with Saylor tucked in my body. I went downstairs with Saylor as I rocked her on the couch trying to get her to go back to sleep. I rocked her standing up as she took her pacifier and her curly sandy hair.

"I'm sorry baby, I'm so sorry," I whispered to her as I kissed on her face. Once she fell asleep, I went upstairs to sit in our bed as I just let her lay across me. I had such a long morning and day tomorrow but Saylor definitely wasn't having it. My eyes watched her as she typically was my feisty and moody girl. Sutton was way more laid back and just happy most of the time. He didn't enjoy his teeth popping through and I feared Saylor was feeling the ears and the teeth. I couldn't imagine what that would actually feel like.

My mom was going to watch the babies in the morning but I felt like I needed to stay with them. My gut turned thinking about leaving Saylor sick. She whimpered in her sleep and turned her head. Her lips parted and she cried again. I kissed on her head as I rocked her side to side to luckily allow her to go to back to sleep.

"Mama's got you," I whispered into her ear.


Troy's POV

I hung up my coat on the back of the kitchen chair as the house was quiet. It was a long night as we made sure everything was ready for tomorrow for Ada and Brady. My mom was literally high on life that my brother and I were getting married two weeks apart. My mind was pre-occupied all night long thinking about Saylor not feeling well. I had to keep fielding questions about where Gabi and the kids were all night long. My family was looking forward to seeing them and I knew Gabi wanted to be here tonight but tomorrow was the bigger day.

I climbed the stairs as Luna was laying at the foot of the nursery, where she typically laid anymore. She picked up her head and wiggled her tail. "Hi Luna," I rubbed her head and she rolled over so I could scratch her stomach. I walked away from her to open the nursery as I just found Sutton in his crib. I smiled as I dipped down to kiss the back of his head as he was sleeping on his belly with his arms sprawled out. "Night buddy, daddy loves you." I whispered.

He twitched and I walked out before going into our room where Gabi was sleeping sitting up with Saylor laying on her chest. Saylor wiggled in her grasp and Gabi moved her hand to secure her closer. I quickly changed my clothes and turned down the lights in the room before I went over and gently pulled Saylor off of Gabi. She woke up in a panic with her brown eyes blazing up to me. I cradled Saylor to my chest who never moved and I reached down with my free hand to cup her face. "It's just me," I said quietly. She relaxed back into the bed as her eyes fell close again.

"Go get ready for bed. Do you want to put her in her crib or bring something in here for her to sleep in?" I asked her and she rubbed her eyes before looking around the room. "The play pen or whatever – she'll wake Sutton up. She'll sleep for like an hour before waking up screaming." I just nodded my head as she went to the bathroom to brush her teeth, she changed her clothes, as I grabbed her swing from downstairs and laid her inside of it.

I buckled her in and tucked a blanket around her hoping that her sitting up would help her sleep a little better. Gabi sat on the edge of the bed as she ran her fingers through her hair. "You, okay?" I asked sitting next to her as we both looked at our daughter together. "I'm just exhausted. She screamed all night and wouldn't eat. She barely breastfed. I don't know. She clearly doesn't feel good and I am just praying she is somewhat okay for tomorrow. It might be a short night." I frowned at the statement but I wasn't going to get into it here with her and right now. She was tired and Saylor had clearly sucked the energy out of her.

"I'm not sure I should get ready with Ada and them tomorrow. My mom won't want to deal with how fussy she is tonight." Gabi ran her hand through her hair and I pulled her into my body and I kissed the top of her head. "How about we see how the night goes. I think you should go get ready with Ada and I can handle them in the morning. We aren't getting together until 1 anyways." She just leaned into my body and didn't say anything. I held onto her as Saylor twitched and flinched in her sleep a few times. "Get some rest, I'll get up with her next time."

Gabi just nodded as she crawled into bed. I crawled in behind her and I pulled her into my body. "I missed you tonight," I whispered and her fingers folded into mine. "Kids," she muttered and we both laughed together as I kissed the back of her head. I felt like I had just closed my eyes and fallen asleep when Saylor whined and cried out. I rolled onto my back before getting out of bed to prevent Gabi from waking up.

I scooped her up and took her downstairs to allow Gabi to sleep for a little bit as I rocked her. She stuffed her hands into her mouth and had the big blubbery tears. "Say, baby," I cooed as I laid her on my shoulder as I took her downstairs. I went to the fridge as I grabbed a bottle and I warmed it up – only half of it so we didn't waste any of it. She tried to claw away from me but fell into my shoulder as I kissed on her head.

Once her bottle was ready, I popped out to the back deck with her as the cool air of the late September night felt good. She calmed with the breeze on her face and I sat down to offer her a bottle. She nibbled on it and pushed it away and then she tried again and finally took it. "That's my girl," I told her as she polished it off within ten minutes. She mostly went back to sleep as I rocked her outside. After fifteen minutes I took her upstairs and laid her back down in the swing as she stayed asleep for the transition. I crawled back into bed, "Is she okay?" Gabi murmured half asleep. I nodded with a yawn, "Yes. She took half a bottle." I whispered to her and I felt Gabi's sigh of relief and I just kissed her head.

"Sleep,"


Saturday, September 12th, 2020

Gabi's POV

I laughed over my coffee as the stylist was doing my hair and we were all chatting in a circle. It caused butterflies to erupt in my stomach thinking that in a few weeks this will be me. I will be getting married. Ada was giggling with her matron of honor – her best friend as Macken planted herself on my lap. "Hi soon to be sister," she said throwing her arms around my neck. I just laughed as I hugged Macken right back. "Hi,"

"Where are my babies?" she pouted. "They are at home with their father. He is bringing both of them up here at one since Saylor is finally doing a little better. I told him I would get Saylor ready and he could get Sutton ready." Macken smiled as she surveyed the girl doing my hair, "Are you excited to do this yourself in a few weeks?" I nodded with a wide smile. "Yea, I really freaking am. I can't wait to marry him."

"And then more babies? Because those ones are really freaking cute." I just snorted and smiled with a shake of my head. "What? Seriously? You're done?" I just laughed again, "No. Just not another one any time soon. I'm pretty sure your brother wants like four to five kids. You need to tell him to cool his thoughts." Macken giggled as she looked over at Ada. "Are you sad you aren't walking with Troy?" I shook my head. "No, because it's not logistical but it will be the same for our wedding. She isn't walking with Brady."

"Ohhh which of the best friends then?" I cracked a smile, "Jax. We played it safe."

"Brady and Beth, Jesse is carrying Zoey's bouquet – we figured it was the best job for him out of all the friends, Cameron and Jenna, Jax and Ada, and then Dylan and you because we know you can handle Dylan." Macken laughed as she smiled, "I think it's sweet what you are doing for your sister. A place holder for such a special day." I nodded as I played with my engagement ring. "I thought about letting Lucy be her stand in but it just wasn't the same. I feel like it speaks more than her bouquet is there."

Macken squeezed my hand as they finished my hair as Macken slid into the chair. "Oh Gabi! You look beautiful!" Laura Bolton threw her arms around my neck and hugged me tightly. I laughed softly as I hugged her back. "Hi, how are you?" I asked her. "Good, where are those grandbabies? Is Saylor doing better?"

"Troy is actually packing them up to head this direction. Saylor did a little better last night. Troy finally got her to eat and she ate this morning again after sleeping. She seemed to be in a slightly better mood but I hope it last. Troy texted me and told me that she slept from 9:30-12 so hopefully this good nap will be what she needs." Laura smiled, "Are you ready for tomorrow?" I nodded as I looked over my shoulder at Ada. "Yea, I am so excited. It's going to be such a good day. But first, today is Ada's day."

Laura screeched and clapped her hands together. "I got my grandbabies already, plus both of my sons are getting married within a month and I just," Laura sighed dreamily and I couldn't stop my laugh as Macken also couldn't stop her own laugh. "Mom, calm down. You have a good five years before you get anything else." Laura balked, "Gabi and Troy will have another kid within five years." Laura said I nearly choked, "I don't know, Laura. Two of them is a lot right now," I said with a nervous laugh and she frowned. "Okay well Ada and Brady for sure,"

"Laura, shush!" Ada called out and Laura pouted, "I want all the grandbabies,"

"Are you going to pay for them?" Macken tossed back and Laura sighed heavily, "I'll babysit for free all the time." Laura offered back. I gave a look towards Macken, "Not a bad deal. The moment she quits her job she can watch my kids every day." I offered because daycare for two of them was so expensive. Laura raised an eyebrow, "I'll start working on Tommy," she said. I couldn't stop my laugh as my phone buzzed. "Oh, the babies are here." I said and she really squealed this time as if she hadn't seen them two days ago.

I walked out with her as I was just in a robe and slippers with my hair done but nothing else. I could hear Troy's voice from the entrance of their venue and the babbling of Sutton. I turned the corner as Troy had Saylor in his arms as she was sleeping and Sutton was in Brady's arms talking and shoving his fingers in his mouth. Sutton caught sight of me and whined and cried out as he reached for me which caused Troy to turn in our direction.

A grin splashed on his face as I walked over to pick up Sutton as he snuggled into my chest. I laughed as I kissed on his head. "Hi baby boy," I murmured into his ear as he clawed at my shirt. "Hi momma," Troy greeted his mom and she stole Saylor from him. "Hi baby momma," he said going to me next with a goofy smile on his face and tipped my head backwards before planting his lips on mine. I reached up to hit his abdomen and he chuckled. "Hi fiancée, is that better?" he asked with a smile on his lips.

A smile on my lips, "Can't wait for it to be wife," his blue eyes light on fire. "Two weeks," he whispered against my lips and I couldn't stop myself from pulling him into a deeper kiss. "Your mom wants another kid from us in less than five years," A laugh busted from Troy's mouth as he searched for his mom. "Are you going to watch these kids you want us to have?" Laura gave a big grin, "If your father would let me retire early." Troy chuckled as I rubbed the back of Sutton's head.

"I am going to feed these two because mama needs it and then I'll bring Sutton back to you." Troy nodded as he kissed my head. "You look beautiful already," I laughed, "I have bags under my eyes the size of Australia." Troy shook his head as he smiled, "No, you do not. Go feed them so we can all get Brady and Ada married. I planned a little something, something," I eyed him and he smiled as he cupped my face.

"Your mom is going to come pick up Sutton and Saylor after pictures so we can enjoy the reception together. She is going to take them home and put them to bed," I paused and rolled my lips together. "What if they stayed at their house? Or they stayed at our house and we could get a hotel room for the night. I want to spend the night with you. We haven't done it yet."

Troy blinked, once, twice, and then a third time before rolling his lips together trying to hide his smile and his excitement. "I'll make a handful of phone calls." He backed away from me and I walked to a private area as I got both of the twins latched on and eating together. I stroked their faces and smiled watching the two of them as they made me so happy. Yet, I knew I was ready for a night away and with their daddy. Just the two of us.

We were leaving for our honeymoon in two weeks and it would be a good trial run. I was so nervous to leave them but tonight we would be able to work out any kinks before we left the country. Saylor seemed to be in a better mood as there was a soft knock on the door and Troy popped his head in. "Hey, your mom is more than happy to take them to her house tonight but I also reserved us a room at the hotel tonight. We will pick them up in the morning." I nodded with a smile as Troy came in to sit down. "I can't wait," I told him and he just grinned as we leaned forward to meet for a kiss.

"How early do you need to be at the dance studio tomorrow?" he asked me as he sat back on the bench behind him. "I need to be there around nine." Troy grimaced, "I'll go get the twins and you can head there. Then I'll come help out. I don't want to rush out of bed tomorrow." I smiled as Saylor heard Troy's voice and peeked up at him. She wiggled away and cried as Troy laughed picking her up. She snuggled into his chest and he kissed the top of her head. "Hi Say, I was just holding you." He cooed and she just buried her face into his body.

My eyes couldn't get enough of him with that baby in his arms. He smiled down at her as she gave him a gummy grin back. My eyes look at Sutton who had fallen asleep while eating. I unlatched him and fixed my robe as Troy put Saylor on my lap and he easily took Sutton from my arms. Saylor whined and I just picked her up. "See you before the wedding," I said shooting him a wink and he chuckled. "Can't wait to have a boner the entire night." We both laughed together as he kissed Saylor's head and then mine before walking off with Sutton. "C'mon little mama, let's go take a nap and then get ready."


Troy's POV

She was stunning in the black dress as Ada and Brady went vintage for their wedding look. Gabi was in a black strapless dress that highlighted all the right areas but I could see her obsessing with how it fit and being self-conscious. Sutton and Saylor made it down the aisle with little issues and then Gabi and I placed them with my parents. Saylor looked so pretty in her white dress but she was passed out on my mom. Sutton wore a little suit and was eating snacks in my Dad's lap.

My eyes shifted back to Gabi as I was so fucking excited for this to be us in two weeks.

I was even more excited that I got her all to myself tonight.

She fidgeted with her dress again and I frowned as she looked up finally and towards me. "You're beautiful," I mouthed to her. Her cheeks flushed with heat and she stood up a little straighter. I smiled watching her move as I shot her a wink as Brady and Ada were in the middle of saying their vows. My eyes cast down to my best friends in attendance, all of Brady's high school friends, many of whom knew Gabi from back then.

A handful of them had their eyes on her.

That wasn't going to last long.

It was time to exchange rings and I slipped out both rings from my pocket. I slipped them into Brady's hand and he shot me a grin, "Stop staring at her," he whispered and I couldn't stop my chuckle as I backed up from him. They exchanged rings and did the kiss as the crowd erupted for them. It was a long time coming for the two of them. They walked down the aisle and then I went to loop my arm through Ada's best friend but she shook her head with a smile and pulled Gabi to me. My own smile erupted on my face as she grinned up at me. "I don't hate this," I murmured into her ear.

We stopped to grab Saylor and Sutton from my parents. Saylor was still asleep as Gabi kissed on Sutton. We made it outside as Ada and Brady were kissing each other and I pulled Gabi close for my own kiss. "I love you, you're beautiful," I told her again and she smiled. We were going to take a handful of pictures for about thirty minutes and then we were sending the kids off. The entire wedding party made it out and everybody was smiling and laughing. I cracked open a beer as we boarded the party bus.

"Only you guys would have two kids on the party bus," Johnny, Brady's good friend, said as we sat down. We both laughed at his comment. "They aren't going to be around much longer. Her parents are going to come pick them up and take them for the night. Mom and dad night out." I reached over to squeeze her thigh. "Who would have thought that Brady's older brother would be the one to snag Gabriella Montez," I shot him a smug smile, "If Brady would have introduced me to her in the beginning,"

"Ew, no, you were practically done with college when I graduated," Gabi protested. I chuckled, "Are you calling me old?" she nodded her head with a smile working on the corners of her lips. Saylor woke up and stretched and sleepily stretched her arms out before wiggling her face against my chest. She blinked up at me with those big blue eyes and I smiled stroking her skin. "Hi baby girl," she wiggled and pressed her weight into her feet. Sutton caught wind of her being awake and he reached for her. Gabi let him climb into my lap as he played with his sister.

It was so much fun to watch the two of them interact with each other and get to know each other. I smiled watching the two of them as Gabi leaned her head on my shoulder. I kissed her head that was full of hairspray and bobby pins. "What are the chances you are going to have natural hair on our wedding day?" she tilted her head back to look at me. "Why?" she asked and I shrugged. "I love the smell of your natural hair and not all the hairspray. I obviously understand if your hair is going to be up but if it's going to be down…"

"I guess you'll have to wait and see," she told me. We got to the photo location and we went to town. We got the twins to take decent pictures with Brady and Ada and they we got some as a family of four. We took all kinds of photos and the twins were starting to lose their minds. "I am going to go feed them." Gabi said and I looked over and Brady was waving me over. "Go, I'll just be on the bus." I nodded and she carried both of them back as they were both crying together.

I walked over to Brady as Macken also popped over, "Hi big brothers," she squeezed in the middle of us and grinned at the camera. I just laughed as Macken grinned, "This will be our parents Christmas present this year. We'll frame whichever one looks better and then one of the twins and boom we have a Christmas gift." Brady laughed, "What about our wives?" she shrugged and we all laughed as we took pictures some more.

"I'm going to go sit with Gabi. She's feeding the twins," I adjusted my watch on my wrist and Brady nodded, "We're heading back in five minutes," I nodded as I went back towards the bus as I climbed on to hear Gabi's soft voice. "Saylor, be nice to your brother." I smiled as I watched her for a second before, she caught that I was staring at her. I walked over and sat down next to her as I dug out a water for her. "Thanks,"

I nodded as she basically had to get undressed to feed them. "Have you figured out what you are going to do on our wedding day?" I asked her. She shook her head, "I'm probably just going to pump as much as I can. The babies are leaving early to go home and go to bed with the babysitter." I nodded as Carly, a former student at James Island and former dancer, became our babysitter and offered to pick them up from the wedding and stay with them until Beth got back to the house because we were going to a hotel and then leaving in the morning for the airport.

"I just want you to not stress about it. I think after dinner we can sneak away together and we can have twenty minutes together. You can pump and I can just have a moment to breathe with you."

"I think I wrote that into our schedule. Let everybody enjoy dinner and then we can come out and do all the things together. Then again towards the end of the night." I laced our fingers together as everybody was heading back towards the bus. Gabi glanced over as she didn't know everybody all that well and it was a lot of guys who didn't know her. "Want me to stop them?" I asked her and she hesitated but nodded. "Give me like five more minutes." I nodded as I quickly went up to the front of the bus and I hopped down the steps before stopping the adventure. "Hey guys, can we give Gabs five more minutes? She's finishing up feeding the babes." I ran my fingers through my hair and they all agreed easily.

Macken snuck on the bus to go help Gabi as we all got another beer out and toasted. "Okay, we're good!" Macken yelled from the window. Both of them were fast asleep in her lap as I easily took Sutton from her and he snuggled up in my arms. "Thank you," she whispered and I nodded kissing her cheek. By the time we got back to the venue her parents were there. We fastened them in the car and Gabi gave each of them ten thousand kisses. "Do you have plenty of milk for them?" I asked Gina.

"Yes! We grabbed some from the freezer, too. We have Saylor's amoxicillin and you just call us in the morning. We'll have them ready for you." I hesitated, "Do you want to bring them to the dance studio tomorrow? I think I am going to go with Gabi and help. It'll be easier without the two of them. If that's too much then just say so," Gina shook her head with a smile. "We are honored to get to spend the night with our grandbabies. Just text me tomorrow and tell me a time." I hugged her tightly and thanked her as I kissed the babies and waved them good-bye. Gabi smiled and I pulled her into my arms into a deep kiss.

"Let's party,"


Gabi's POV

Troy finished off his beer as he was sans suit jacket and tie at this point. He was laughing with Cameron and Jax as he ran his fingers through his hair. The night was almost over and it had been a really fun night with the two of us. I was on the tipsy side after a few too many glasses of wine and Macken came over to give me a big hug. "I can't wait to see you in that white dress," she said with a dreamy sigh. I laughed as I hugged her right back.

"I just will be happy to finally call him my husband," I told her. She gave a grin and Troy glanced over at the two of us. "I am also really excited to support you tomorrow." I gave her a smile, "I am happy that my dance studio dreams came to life." She hugged me again, "I think I want to take a class. Got any adult dancing?" I raised an eyebrow, "That actually could be a lot of fun. Wine and dancing nights,"

"Oh my god! It would be amazing!" I laughed as a big arm slipped around my waist and his lips pressed into my neck. I could smell the beer on his breath and I couldn't resist tilting my head back for a kiss. "We have to help clean up but then we can go," he whispered. I turned in his grasp to kiss him again firmly on the mouth and he groaned. "I have big plans for us all night long but they don't start here." He pulled away and I pouted. He chuckled as I squeezed my hip and walked away.

I began to gather up and throw away all the trash. Ada and Brady had just left and now we were tasked with cleaning up. The last call for the bar happened and the DJ started to slow things down but he announced one more slow song. "I changed my mind," Troy swept me to the dance floor and I cuddled up with him as he smiled while reaching down to brush his lips against my ear. "The next time we dance we'll be husband and wife," he whispered and I felt chills run down my spine.

"I am so excited," I whispered to him and he smiled as I let my body wrap around his. The song faded out but Troy didn't move as we just held onto each other for a moment. When we got back from our honeymoon it was going to be a whirlwind. Basketball would be starting and as the previous state champions they were going to have a lot of work to do. They were playing in a big tournament in November at the state level. Luckily, Blaine was also going to be there so it was a family trip.

Things with Zoey's were going to kick up into high gear and I was working a smidge more to bring it just a little bit extra money so I could quit my job and make Zoey's my full-time job. I stepped away from working with the James Island dance team due to rules but would work with all of them on the side here. They were even going to use Zoey's as an after-hours practice place when the gyms were full at the high school.

I held onto Troy and he kissed my head and pulled away, "Okay, let's clean up because I have so many things, I want to do with you." I giggled as we cleaned up and packed everything up. It was almost an hour later before Troy's parents gave us the blessing to go. Troy slipped his fingers in mine and we headed for his car. We would come back tomorrow for my car. We both slipped inside and he drove as fast as he could to the hotel. He had checked in earlier today so we just had to make it there. Just a little bit farther.

We got into an empty elevator and his mouth was on mine. His fingers itching to get the material off my body. The doors opened and he led me to our room. He unlocked it and pushed the door open before quickly shutting it and pinning me to the wall. A smile forming on his face as his nose brushed along my face. "I love weddings," I giggled as he unzipped my dress with one hand and it fell into a pile on the floor. He nearly growled at my lingerie of course.

"Fuck me, what did I do to deserve you."


Saturday, September 13th, 2020

Troy's POV

I woke up with her naked body pressed against mine and it was amazing. It was amazing that we didn't wake up once last night for the first time in months. Gabi didn't pump all night and I wasn't sure if she was going to regret that or not. I rubbed my eyes as it was a little after seven. I wanted to make sure she got a good meal in before today because she was going to be running around all afternoon. I ordered room service and I pinned her back to her back and let my lips wonder down her body. Her fingers found my hair and I smiled, "Good morning, happy grand opening day," she opened her eyes with a smile etching onto those lips.

"Good morning," she stretched her body out underneath of mine. I kissed on her again when she wrapped her arms around my neck. "I need to get ready to leave soon," she said while playing with my hair. "I ordered breakfast for us. You will eat and then you will get ready."

"I really need to pump," I nodded as I rolled off of her and she sat up to reach for her pump. She grimaced and there was a knock at the door. I walked over to get our food after putting on shorts and I thanked the guy. I brought it back to bed as she was already starting her pump session and you could see the relief fill her face. She grinned at the food in front of us. "When are you getting the twins?" she asked me as she chowed down on the pancakes in front of us.

I took a bite of toast, "I am going with you. We'll go get your car. You'll go the studio. I'll get coffee for everybody and then I will help set up before they come up there. It will be easier to get everything set up and then bring them up there. I know you want to see them but let's celebrate you today and I want it to be perfect for you." Gabi looked up at me and nodded, "Can we call them? I miss them." I smiled and nodded as I pulled my phone out and I facetimed Gina.

"Saylor! Look who's calling! Daddy!" I grinned as Saylor looked to have been crying but she looked at the phone as Gabi and I both giggled and talked to her. "Hi Say Say," she looked at me with the biggest grin on her little face. "Are you being good girl?"

"Oh absolutely. She's an angel," Gabi and I shared a look as with both just laughed with a shake of our heads. "Oh, here comes Sutton." Andy planted Sutton down in Gina's lap and Gabi grinned, "Hi Sutty!" he giggled and reached for the phone himself. "Momma just wanted to say good morning." Gabi cooed into the phone. "Daddy loves you," I said waving to them and her parents waved good-bye for them as we hung up the phone.

"I love them so much," Gabi's voice was dreamy with a big smile on her face as she took a bite of her food. "It's going to be a long week without them," I agreed. Gabi nodded as she took another bite as if she hasn't eaten in days. "I also really can't wait for our week together. Our first true vacation together. Like going somewhere by ourselves," Gabi tipped her head to the side as she smiled, "Honestly, Troy, I could care less about the wedding. I mean, yes, I am excited to get married to you but it's the honeymoon. The week of just the two of us that I really want. That I'm craving because these past several months have been insane between the babies and the wedding planning and opening the studio plus basketball. It's been a lot but knowing that we are going to be together just the two of us on a beach in a different country? Sounds like a dream to me."

A smile pulled on my lips and I stole a bite off her plate, "Yea, I think we both are thinking the same thing." We grinned at each other because it will be really fucking nice to just slow down for a couple of days together because when we got back it was basketball in full force.


Gabi's POV

I hung up the sign in the dance studio with Dana as Mia gave us a thumbs up while Brea ran around trying to get all the little things together. Troy had just left to go get the twins as we all went to the back to change into our t-shirts and leggings. "Gabi, you are really doing a lot right now. Is everything ready for the wedding?" I nodded my head as I reapplied mascara. "It sure is. Thankfully, I hired a planner and she took a lot of control these last few weeks. Life has been crazy but I wouldn't want it any other way."

The girls all laughed as we continued to make sure the balloon arch was completed and our picture station was done. There was just an open house today with two different sessions but for the most part it was just for people to come in and see the studio and talk to us. I rolled my lips together as I surveyed the scene and it looked really good. "Before everybody shows up – I just want to say to the three of you that I couldn't have done this without you. You brought one of my biggest dreams alive and I am so glad that I got to do it with you guys. Zoey's is going to be a place that everybody wants to be at and I can't wait to spend long nights here and teaching dance and cutting music and all the things I love doing all the time."

We all laughed and I gave a smile to each of them, "I know we can do this and I am so proud of all of us." We each squealed with excitement and the front door opened to reveal my fiancée with two babies in his arms. Sutton squealed at the sight of me and I grinned as I reached for him, "Hi big guy!" I snuggled him close to me as I kissed his little head. They were each in Zoey's dance studio t-shirts as Troy was greeting everybody again as Saylor ended up in Brea's arms.

"What did my mom say? Anything?" Troy shook his head, "Said they were angels and she can't wait to keep them for a week." I smiled as we put Troy to work with a few last-minute things as the doors were opened and people began coming in as we twisted on the music. All of our dance team girls arrived as they were dancing around the floor with Sutton and Saylor. James, Blaine, and Lucy all showed up as Lucy was quick to the floor with a few of the girls she knew as Blaine came over and wrapped me up with a hug.

"Congrats, Aunt Gabi. Mom would have loved it." He whispered in my ear and I just closed my eyes as I held him close. I checked with each of the three people who Zoey meant the most to before I named the studio after her and they each loved the idea. "Thank you, Blaine. I know you are here probably to check out the girls." Blaine just chuckled in my ear as he pulled back with a grin as I hugged James as they were all doing so much better. In a new house and James was becoming more like himself.

He would never be the same again but he was better.

My parents came through the door along with Troy's parents and his siblings.

People off the street. Girls interested in dance. All the things and before I knew it the entire place was packed full of people. My kids were being passed around left and right as I tried to keep my eyes on them every now and then but I was sucked into many different conversations with many different people. All interested in what our studio had to offer. It was new, female owned, and full of dreams. My eyes took in the entire scene around me at one point when a hand looped around my mid-section and pulled me back against him.

"Soak it in," he whispered into my ear. "Soak in this moment because you, Gabriella, made your dreams come true. You did this." I bit down on my lip and I couldn't help but let a big smile split across my cheeks. "You two! Smile!" Troy and I both grinned for the camera as I noticed that our friends all flooded through this place. Cameron, Dylan, Jesse, and Jax all had picked me up in a tight hug at some point while the girls were excited for all the adventures in this little studio that would occur. Jenna was squealing when she arrived and pranced Willa around and showed her that this is where she would be taking all of her dance classes.

Troy left from behind me and before I knew it, he was one the one standing at the front as Troy smiled and caught everybody's attention. "Welcome to Zoey's Dance Studio," Troy said with a smile on his lips and the happiness in those blue eyes. "I am not the person you were expecting to talk but I wanted to introduce myself for people who don't know me. I'm Troy Bolton, I am about to marry the girl who had a dream about this place for many years. Gabi told me that she wanted to open a dance studio and I said let's do it and she did it. She put in the work, the hours, and found the people to make her dream a complete reality and I want to say I'm a very lucky man to get to marry her in a few weeks. She is amazing and is going to make such a difference here. I am so proud of her and I know that you all will love her and all of her co-workers here. Brea, Dana, Mia, and Gabi…congrats. You all did such an amazing job and I am so lucky to have such amazing woman show my daughter and my son what female power is."

The room cheered as I couldn't stop my smile and the tears as he shot me a wink with a smile. "I want to thank everybody for coming out today. I know we have one more dance session to do and I am so glad you all appear to be having fun. Thank you for coming, thank you for being here and I cannot wait for the years of building the families in these walls. Thank you all again, you made this day so special. Brea, Mia, Dana – thank you so much for believing in this with me. I cannot wait to coach with you girls for the years to come. This is just…this is amazing. To my family, to my fiancée, to my kids, my sisters, and everybody else. Thank you."

The group cheered as we broke into another dance session that Brea was teaching. Troy had two sleeping babies in his arms and I went over to him with a smile on my face. "Thank you," I whispered to him. He smiled. "You are amazing, this is amazing. I am just…I am in awh of you. You guys did such an amazing job with this." I reached up to kiss each of my babies and then I kissed Troy softly, "Take those babies' home. They played hard today. I'll see you at home."

"I love you,"

"I love you, too." We both shared another kiss before he headed to the car and his parents helped him out. I smiled as I looked around again. Yes, this was everything. I had my family, I had my studio, and I was about to marry the absolute love of my life. I just wish that I had one person here.

But I knew she was.

My eyes turned to see her picture on the wall with her large smile on display and I smiled back, "Thanks, Zo," I whispered.


Happy Sunday! I am so glad you are all excited for this story! I can't wait!

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Next Update: November 6th (I'm working a really weird stretch where I think I have 3 days off the rest of the month SO I will update when that madness is over ha)