Chapter 31 – Thanksgiving
Tuesday, November 26th, 2019
28 Weeks Pregnant
Gabi's POV
I shuffled a few papers on my desk as this was our last day of work this week. Annie was sitting outside wrapping up all of her things and I did the same. It had been a slow week but there were no complaints from me. It was Troy's last day of work for the week as well with the basketball team getting the entire weekend off. It was something we were both looking forward, too. We had nixed two more names off our list of names dropping us to four names. Silas and Josie were tossed off after the realization of people in our lives already named that. Neither of us connected it that night but we weren't naming after any people.
That left us with a handful of really good names. Beth wanted us to have them chosen by the baby shower but we talked about them daily and were having a really hard time taking any off the list. We were supposed to get ready for Thanksgiving tomorrow which we were hosting at Troy's house. My family and Troy's family were coming over and on Friday we were doing Friendsgiving with all of our friends. On Saturday we were having my baby shower but Beth had rented out a center to do it and all of the amazing ladies in my life were planning it.
Troy and I had gone to put our register together a few weekends ago for our Saturday date and we had a lot of fun picking out all of the things for our two babies. It was fun getting to get stuff for a boy and a girl. Troy and I were still saving everything that we could away as I really start to research deep into owning my own company. I got up to put some papers away in a drawer when my door burst open. I turned around and I gasped as I took two steps forward before Beth engulfed me in a hug.
"What are you doing here? I didn't think you were coming until tomorrow night." She laughed in my ear as she just held onto me. "I wanted to come earlier. I missed you." I smiled as I pulled back as she grinned, "Look at this belly!" she let her hands drop to my stomach and I couldn't help but laugh. "I know. It's huge. This whole two baby thing isn't for the weak." She grinned, "Are you sure you don't have any names picked out?" she pouted and I nodded. "Nothing official. We talk about it nearly daily."
"Beth, stop giving her a hard time about the names. It's a forever kinda thing." Colt walked in my office door and I smiled, "Hi Colt," I went over and gave him a quick hug. "I was promised that your mom knows how to cook one hell of a Thanksgiving," I laughed, "She does and Troy's mom is going to help as well. There will be a lot of good food in that kitchen on Thursday." Colt chuckled, "Wow, I am so surprised and happy you are both here."
"We got a hotel this time – don't be offended. We just wanted to make sure we weren't always in your hair or moms or James. We'll be at your place all the time though." I smiled, "It's okay. I understand. As long as you promise to spend all your time with me." I winked at her causing her to laugh and she hugged me again. "Can you leave early?" she asked and I hesitated, "I am trying to save all of my PTO for the babies."
Beth grimaced, "Yes, of course, how much longer?" she questioned and I looked up at the clock. "About an hour and half. Did you go by and see mom?" she shook her head, "Nope. You were the first stop. I can go see her though and then meet up with you in a little bit?" I nodded, "That sounds good. Thank you for coming to see me first," I hugged her tightly again and she smiled, "I missed you the most. Don't tell mom." I just laughed. I gave her another tight squeeze before they both left and headed towards my mom.
I started to wrap up my work for the afternoon and submitting my final proposals to potential clients. I logged out of my computer as the babies rolled around in my belly. Troy had practiced this afternoon but the dance team was off until after Thanksgiving as they were starting to get ready for state competition. I ran my hand over my bump and I smiled thinking about the pictures we were taking early next week. I still had a very unsettled feeling that I wasn't going to make it to term with these two babies and I didn't want to miss out of on maternity pictures with the both of them. We were doing them on the beach late next week – right around our first anniversary. I just kinda of laughed at the thought – I hadn't known Troy Bolton a year yet.
It was shocking because I felt like I had known him years – not just one. Troy said that we were going to celebrate the day that we had our epic date. Not the 6th and I was kinda grateful for that. I didn't want to share that date with him because he was everything good in my life and not a damn thing was bad about him. I loved him. He was my end game and I was excited every day to go home and see him. I bid a good-bye to Annie who I would see at my baby shower later this week.
"Have a good thanksgiving," I said and she grinned, "You too, keep those babies inside." I laughed, "I plan on it for much longer than that." I told her and Annie just shot me a grin. I walked out to my car and pressed on Troy's name on my phone hoping I was catching him at a good time. I just wanted to hear his voice. The phone stopped ringing and his voice filtered through the line. "Are you okay?" I could hear the squeak of the sneakers in the background.
"Yea, I just…I needed to hear your voice." I told him as I played with my car keys. He paused, "I am flattered but are you really, okay?" I laughed with a nod, "Yea, I love you. Beth showed up early and surprised me at work. I don't know. Just wanted to hear your voice. Sorry, I know I'm interrupting practice. Go back. Like I said, just wanted to hear your voice." He was caution on the other end of the line. "I'm ending practice early, so I'll be home sooner than later. Do you want to go out and grab dinner?"
"Nah, I have some stuff at home that I will whip up. I want to spend some time with you tonight before everything gets crazy over the week."
"Of course, Brie. What about Beth and Colt?"
"I bet my mom will keep them company. I'll invite them over for breakfast tomorrow. I truly just need some time with you." Troy hesitated for a moment longer, "Okay, I love you. I'll text you when I'm on my way home." I agreed as I dropped my phone into the cup holder before driving home. I did have stuff for a quick meal at home while we cleaned the house. I got home as I sent a quick text to Beth who completely understood and would come over for breakfast in the morning. I let Luna out into the backyard as I started dinner and began to pick up around the house. I changed into a pair of leggings with one of Troy's t-shirt.
I started a load of laundry when the door popped open, I looked up to see Troy as he was on his phone talking to somebody. He sent me a wink as I shut the dryer door and started it as he slipped his hand around my waist to pull me close. "Mac, all you have to do is show up. You don't need to bring anything. Silas doesn't need to bring anything." I tucked my head against his chest, "No, please don't come over tonight. Gabs and I are spending time together before the festivities all week." I wish I could bury my body into his.
"I love you, too, Mac n cheese," I heard her yelling at him over the phone as he hung up with a chuckle. Troy wrapped his other arm around me, "Are you sure you are, okay?" I laughed and nodded my head into his chest. "Yea, I just…I need some you time." He tipped my chin backwards to look in my eye. "Okay…dinner smells really good." I smiled, "Just a bit of spaghetti with some garlic bread." Troy kissed my head softly, "I am going to change my clothes. You going to attach yourself to me or let me go?" I laughed as I just pressed my head into his chest. "You can go alone. I just…I don't know. I just need you."
He just chuckled while he kissed me softly on the lips, "I'll be back in ten. Is my dog outside?" I nodded as he slipped away and dropped his backpack at the kitchen table before calling for Luna. She came bounding to greet him and he rubbed her belly. He disappeared upstairs with her as I finished our dinner and plated it. I wasn't sure why I wanted to be so close to Troy but I did. Once Troy came back downstairs, I was plating our food and he smiled before coming over and kissing my cheek. "It smells divine,"
I gave him a smile as we both went to sit down, he sat right next to me and I inched closer as he chuckled, "Brie, what's wrong?" he questioned again and I suddenly felt a surge of panic as I wiggled away. "Nothing, I swear, I just…am I being annoying?" the tears pulled in my eyes thinking that I was truly annoying him. Our eyes connected and his entire body softened. "No, Brie, you aren't being annoying. I just am worried that something is wrong."
"No, nothing is wrong. I just missed you today and I don't want to share you tonight." He gave a soft smile as he reached up to cup my cheek. "You have me all to yourself tonight, okay? You can eat in my lap if that makes you feel better." I laughed with a shake of my head as I rubbed my eyeballs. "I swear having twice the emotion of hormones in my body is too much." Troy could only laugh as we both dug into our plates while we talked about work and basketball practice.
"Beth is going to come over for breakfast tomorrow," I told him and he grinned, "I'll cook in the morning. You two can go sit outside and drink coffee together." I just smiled because I really did appreciate him and everything, he did for me.
Troy's POV
Gabi was resting her body against mine as a movie played on the screen in front of us. She was playing with my t-shirt and her fingers brushed against my lower stomach. I wasn't sure what earlier today was about but if she wanted to be close…then I was going to be close. We ate dinner together, we laughed together, and then we drove to get our favorite ice cream with Luna in the back of the car. It really was a great night as she just wanted to spend quality time together.
She picked up my hand and she placed it on her belly as I felt one of the twins kick her stomach. I couldn't stop the grin that spread across my face, "I believe that is twin A,"
"Jameson," I countered and she shook her head with a tiny laugh, "You really like Jameson?" I shrugged, "It's really cute," I threw back and she just gave me a smile as the baby kicked again. "Do you get annoyed by that?" I asked her and she shook her head, "No. Not all the time. Sometimes while I'm sleeping it can be a little bit but I like feeling them move and knowing they are okay in there. It's my only reassurance."
I pressed my lips into her hair, "Savannah? Do you really think that's too corny for the reason?" I couldn't stop my laugh, "I really like Savannah but I don't think I would be able to ever tell her why that's her name. Y'know, kids ask that." Gabi laughed as she tilted her head back, "How did you become Troy?" she asked me and I sighed with a roll of my eyes. "It's not that fun of a story. My parents both made a list of five names and it was the only name that they both had on their list. For my mom is was number one and my dad it was his sixth." She couldn't stop her laugh and gave me a smile. "I like it though. Troy really fits you."
I brushed my fingers through her hair, "What about you?" I questioned and she smiled. "My mom always wanted a princess sort of name and she lost the battle with Bethany and Zoey. She finally put her foot down that she wanted something romantic and pretty that just gave off royalty vibes. I honestly think my dad was sick of listening to her bitch and gave in – when she proposed Gabriella, he instantly loved it and knew he would call me Ella."
"You are quite the princess," I murmured in her ear and she jabbed me with her elbow but I could only give a little laugh. Her eyes flickered to me, "Yea, I feel like Savannah is a beautiful name but I couldn't tell our daughter that with a straight face." I rubbed her arm gently when she tilted her head back to glance at me. Our eyes connected and I couldn't stop the rush of emotion and love that I have for her. "I can't wait to tell our kids how we decided on their names," I whispered and she smiled, "Then we better have a good reason, maybe if you told me the name you had a reason behind, we could decide on it."
I paused for a moment as I wondered if I wanted to tell her. She would probably be sold on the name if I did it. I pulled back to look in her eyes, "It's the only name left that you haven't nixed from my list," I murmured and she racked her brain for a moment. "Saylor," she repeated and I nodded my head as I laced our fingers together. "Saylor back in England used to be surname. It typically meant acrobat or…" I stopped as I scanned her face. "Or little dancer," she inhaled a tiny breath of air and she blinked her eyes a few times. I could see the water forming in them.
"Of course, it also means to be a sailor but the moment I saw it once meant a dancer I just…I kinda got stuck on it and the more I said it out loud and the more I thought about it the more I also loved it. Saylor Claire Bolton just…it just sounded powerful like she could command a court room but could also be graceful ballerina." Two tears rolled down her cheeks as she took my other hand and pressed it to the other side of her abdomen.
"Saylor," she repeated and I smiled, "You like it?" she nodded her head as she wiped her tears away, "Yea, I really do. It's perfect and I did love it the first time you mentioned it. It's just…if our kids are going to have a meaning behind their name, I really like that one." I laughed as I dipped down to press my lips against hers. "I love you so much and I know you are going to be such a great dad to them both." I closed my eyes at her words as I couldn't hold back anymore. I crashed my lips to hers and she groaned from the contact. I sat up and pulled her with me as she straddled my body. My fingers pulled at her to get her closer and her fingers tugged on my hair.
"Troy," her words were a gasp as I lifted my t-shirt off her body and I snapped her bra off as I took her breast into my mouth while I massaged the other one. She clawed at my back while she arched her back trying to get more. "God, what I wouldn't give to lay you on your back," I whispered into her ear. I knew it was uncomfortable and unsafe for her. "Take me upstairs," she whispered against my mouth and I only swooped her up without second thought. Our lips were attacking each other as I pressed her back against the wall for a moment to just focus on her. I rolled my pelvis against hers and she cried out for more.
I took her down to our bedroom and she pulled away to pull off her leggings while I ditched my shirt and jeans. She threw a pillow down and then pulled me closer to her. "I just can't be flat, flat, you seem to have a need to fuck me," I nearly growled as she laid back and I nearly dove in for the kiss. Our lips locked again as I locked our fingers above her head. "Are you comfortable though?" I questioned her and she just nodded her head as I nestled my body between her legs as I slowed down as I took my time from here. I kissed her forehead, her lips, down her chest, collarbone, breasts, stomach. She was wiggling and twisting and turning with intensity.
"Troy," she squeezed the back of my neck before I quickly slid into her with a sharp intensity that caused her to cry out. I stopped to allow her to get used to me for a beat before I started a pace that was gentle at first but more vigorous and sharper as our bodies slapped together. Our bodies rocked together and midway through she looked to be uncomfortable as I lifted her up before having her sit in my lap. She almost instantly orgasmed from the change in positions her head rested on my shoulder. "I love you," she whispered into my ear with that hazy voice of post orgasm.
"I love you, too," I groaned out as I emptied inside of her. We both stilled as she rested against me and I let my head rest on her shoulder as I let my fingers trail down her back. I pulled out of her as I rolled her to the side and I spooned her. Our fingers locked together as I pressed a gentle kiss to the back of her shoulder. "Do you think when we tell our daughter how we named her that we include this part?" Gabi couldn't stop her laugh as she was nearly in tears from laughing so hard that caused me to laugh as well.
"No, I think this part stays between us," she said after she could control herself. I kissed her knuckles as I moved so I could reach over and kiss her belly. "Good night, Saylor." I whispered and Gabi couldn't stop her laugh as I kissed the other side. "Night little man, you'll have a name eventually." Gabi laughed again as she grabbed my chin and pulled my mouth to her mouth. "My statement stands," I smiled as I nuzzled my nose against her temple.
"You are going to be a great mom," she smiled as we kissed like this for what felt like all night long. Our bodies soft against each other and our kissing slow and lazy. I stayed behind her as I slipped in from behind this time and gently rocked against her. Our bodies molding together and becoming one. Yea, I think this one can stay between the two of us.
Wednesday, November 27th, 2019
Gabi's POV
I woke up curled into my fiancé as his hand was on my belly and I was resting on his chest. I blinked the sleep out of my eyes as last night nearly felt like a dream. We named our daughter. We actually chose a name for her and I loved it. It was beautiful and elegant and…I couldn't believe the meaning behind it. I let my hand rest on where she was supposed to be lying in my body and I waited for some sign that she was okay.
Once her tiny foot or elbow pressed into me, I smiled while I waited patiently for our son. My eyes thought about all the different possibilities that were still on the table for him. I didn't want to rush the name process for either of them and it felt right last night with Saylor. There was no reason to rush his name. It was attached to him for the rest of his life. My eyes peered up at Troy with his thick black lashes resting against his face and his arm curling around me. I gently sat up and his eyes blinked for a few seconds before popping open. He closed them again and his arms reached above his head with a grimace. "Morning," he whispered with his voice laced with sleep.
My fingers inched forward and I let them gaze through his hair, "Morning," I whispered back to him and those blue eyes were fully on me. "Did you sleep well?" he questioned and I nodded my head. "I did. You exhausted me yesterday," I told him with a tiny laugh and he gave a smile. "How are the babes," he reached for my belly and he waited for his own little feet or elbows to press into his palm. I moved it to line up with the last one but his fingers knotted with mine instead. "Beth is going to be over soon. I am going to go take a shower and get ready." I told him. "You rest," I encouraged and Troy shook his head. "I promised to cook the both of you breakfast."
"Plus, how can I turn down a shower with this beautiful woman?" I felt my cheeks flush with a tiny shake of my head and he pulled on my hand to drag me closer to his face. "I don't remember inviting you," I murmured to his lips and he just laughed, the deep rumble shaking my chest. His fingers tugging on my hair and his lips hovering over mine. "I think I invited myself, the water bill was a little high last month." He joked but with the most serious face. I just shook my head with a smile as I let my lips press into his.
"I don't care what Jax says, there is no better way to wake up than to this." I cocked my head to the side, "What would be the other way?" I questioned and Troy let out a laugh, "he said waking up to the smell of food is the best thing ever. I said no way, that waking up in bed with the girl I love and just enjoying the first few moments in the morning together. Fuck food," I just laughed and Troy palmed the back of my head and pulled me into a kiss again. "C'mon, let's go save the earth together."
"Thought it was the water bill?"
Troy just gave me the cockiest smirk before leaning in again, his lips hovering by my ear with his warm breath tickling my neck. "Does it actually matter?"
Beth and I giggled together as we were both sipping our coffee while the boys were inside together cooking the two of us breakfast. Troy had stated when they showed up and Colt started to help while the two of us stayed outside together. Luna was laying underneath the tree in the backyard. "How is the dance studio idea coming along?" I gave off a little sigh, "Not fast enough. Which is fair, but I think Troy and I decided to just save money until after I'm back to work with the twins. I am still browsing buildings and ideal studios but we probably won't do anything until after the twins are here."
"That's probably a good plan. Slow and steady will win the race. You don't want to rush any of this." I agreed with a nod of my head, "I definitely do not want to put Zoey's name on the door and it not be used to its full potential or waste this opportunity. If I need to wait then I will wait. This is for Zoey. This is to honor her. I have so many big plans in my head for how to truly honor her. We tried the whole volleyball tournament thing but it fizzled with little momentum but I am thinking one day I can host a dance competition in her name or a scholarship or…God, the possibilities are endless."
Beth smiled as she crossed her legs, "I love seeing the fire in your eyes again," I blinked as I looked down in my lap. "I don't know when that fire disappeared." Beth shrugged, "Sometime after you graduated and realized dance was over, that you were in a relationship with a moron, and when you got hyper focused on work. Thinking back how does that all feel?" I laughed dryly, "I cannot believe I put that much effort into work. Yea, I like my job. I like the people I work with but…" Beth nodded in agreement. "It isn't your burning passion. That's what caused that spark to leave and I think a certain baby daddy reignited that spark."
I contemplated that for a moment before shaking my head. "No, Zoey dying did. I think the moment that everything kind of settled inside of me I realized that I was living a life that I wasn't proud of. I dumped Brad and I started to realize my job was less important. Troy 100% helped in the guiding my life in the correct decision but it wasn't just Troy. The more I was with Troy the less I felt tied down. I felt free. I feel free. He supports all of my ideas and he wants me to achieve all of my dreams. I want to do the same with him."
Beth squeezed my hand with pride on her face, "I am so happy for you and these little babes. You found an amazing man, the man, and I cannot wait for you to get married to him next year." I blinked away the remaining emotions as we changed the subject to cooking all day today with the mothers and tomorrow how we were going to enjoy the feast. Beth told me all about her life with Colt on the farm and how she was learning to become a farm girl – even though she was still not too happy about mucking the stalls.
We were both in a fit of laughter when the two men walked outside with refilled coffee cups and plates of breakfast. "What is all of this laughter about," Colt questioned and he bent down to kiss my sister's cheek with a smile on his face. "Just telling Gabi about how I nearly fell in horse poop," Colt let out a deep laugh and a smile blossomed on his face with two dimples poking out. "You did fall in horse poop," he corrected with a teasing glint on his face. Beth threw him a murderous stare causing Troy and I to laugh.
"Remember that nice hose bath I gave you?" the smirk on his lips told me that hose bath turned into something else afterwards. Troy couldn't stop his laugh, "Oh man, I bet you smelled great, Beth." She just rolled her eyes as all of the food was dished out and everybody began to dig in. "Troy, this is amazing. Colt, good work."
"Showed Troy the proper way to make eggs,"
"Proper?" I questioned and Colt acted offended. "Yes, proper. You have to use the good milk with the extra good cheese. The only way to eat eggs." Troy took a bit and moaned from his seat. "He isn't lying," Troy said between bites as he shoved more into his mouth. I slid my hand on his thigh and his eyes flickered up to meet my face. He smiled at me before we all dove into our breakfast. I couldn't stop the smile that sat on my lips with all of my favorite people around me.
"This is really, really good." I commented after I polished off the last of my scrambled eggs. "Do you want more?" Troy asked and I shook my head. "While it is delicious, I am not that hungry anymore. This belly takes up my entire stomach I think." Beth smiled, "How are the names going?" Troy and I shared a look with each other because we didn't discuss if we were going to announce to anybody else what their names were. "Holy shit, you named them." I turned quickly to face my sister as I shook my head, "No. We named one of them." I corrected her and Beth bounced up giddy with excitement.
"Like for sure for sure?" Beth asked with a grin and I looked over towards Troy. He had a smile on his lips watching us, "You have to wait to find out though," I blurted and her eyes bugged out of her head. "WHAT?" she claimed and Troy's eyes were wide with wonder. "Until we figure out little man's name," I corrected and she grinned from ear to ear. "You figured out her name?" she whispered and I nodded my head. She crashed me into a hug, "As long as I don't have to wait until their birth. Okay?" I nodded my head, "Let us figure out his name and then we will tell the family their names. Besides that, it doesn't leave the family."
"Wait, not even our friends?" Troy questioned and I let my eyes linger on him for a moment. Our friends. I blinked my eyes as he turned his head to focus on me. "I mean…then who are we surprising?" Troy scratched his jaw for a moment, "I don't know. I mean…why the secret?" I shrugged and I was still stuck on the whole our friend's thing and the fact that he was excited to share the name. "Mostly because we could still change her name and what if I change my mind?"
Beth just laughed, "Then you just tell me that you changed your mind. I just won't buy anything with their names on it." I laughed as I turned towards Troy again. "I am pretty deadest on our name for her. It's his name that we are struggling with – only because I want to make sure it's right and the right reason for it." Beth smiled with excitement. "Beth, how about we go clean up?" Colt said and she nodded her head before grabbing me in a big hug. "I can't wait to hear it,"
Beth and Colt went inside as Troy gave me a questioning look, "What was the look for?" I went over to sit on his lap while my arms crossed around his neck. "You said our friends. I just…I had to stop because they are truly your friends. They are your best friends but when you said it…they truly have become some of my best friends, too. It was the first time that I truly thought that. That those are our friends and that they are important people in my life."
Troy's eyes flickered around, "I have Jenna and I hope you feel the same about her and Ethan but…it was just…those were my true only friends but now I have this whole group and I could have never imagined that two years ago. I was lucky to have Jenna. I am thankful for it." Troy pressed his forehead into my shoulder, "I fucking hate Brad. So much Gabi, you should have always had a big group of friends. You are so vibrant and beautiful and all of my friends love you."
"Well, he moved so no worries," I teased him because Brad did move after he was let go from our firm. He was baffled and pissed off but they told him that they would give a glowing recommendation if he left without incident. He moved to Georgia and I wasn't sad to see him leave. Troy kissed my temple, "You want to wait until we have both of their names?" I nodded my head. "We can tell everybody, too. I just…I want to be sure."
"That's fair," Troy bent over and kissed my belly. "Good morning! Happy cooking day!" Troy's mom stepped through and Troy cracked a smile, "C'mon good lookin, we have a lot of cookin to do."
Thursday, November 28th, 2019
29 weeks pregnant
Troy's POV
I tipped my beer back with a laugh as Brady, my dad, Andy, James, and Colt were all standing outside enjoying a beer. All of us dressed in jeans and a button-down shirt of different varieties as the girls were all inside putting the final touches on the meal, they spent hours on yesterday. "Help, me," Silas burst through the back door and I couldn't help but laugh. "How do you get stuck in there?" I questioned with a head tilt and he groaned. "I don't know. I think it's because I'm not 21 yet but…you could still invite me."
The group all laughed together and my dad tossed Silas a beer. "For being stuck with the women," I laughed with a shake of my head. Blaine walked out of the door with the same look on his face, "I thought Grandma was going to hit my hand because I touched the food," he said causing James to chuckle. "You don't touch it until it's all ready," James educated him and he rolled his eyes, "I just wanted a little snack."
Gabi poked her head out the door and she looked around with a smile on her face. Her eyes landed on me and her eyes brightened, God, I hope her eyes would forever do that when she landed on me. "Dinner is about ready. The mom's told me to come get all of you and for you all to wash your hands." The crowd grumbled but did as they were told as they entered the house and heading for all of the different bathroom sinks. I lingered back as Gabi was laughing and talking to everybody as they entered.
A smile flickered on her lips, "Mr. Bolton, what are you waiting for?" I hooked an arm around her waist as I drug her closer to me. "A kiss from you," she laughed while her arms hooked around my neck. "You're lucky that I am willing to give you such a kiss," I pressed my lips to hers before pressing my forehead to her forehead. "C'mon, all of that food smells delicious." I chuckled, "I bet it's all amazing. I can't wait till next year when we have both of these little babes here with us."
She gave me a wide grin, "And we'll be married." I just chuckled with a smile. "And we'll be married. How is wedding planning coming along? You haven't mentioned it lately." She shrugged as we went inside, "After booking our place I kind of just put it on the back burner." We both went to wash our hands before getting in line. We piled our plates with too much food before I took my seat next to Gabi and next to Brady.
It was nice to have both of our families here and all of us enjoying the day together. The girls already said they were going to play cards while we watched the football game tonight. Everybody was seated and all the chatting was occurring causing overwhelming happiness inside of me. My eyes looked over at Gabi who was laughing with one hand on her stomach and her eyes stuck on Macken as they had a conversation. God, she was beautiful.
"Troy," I turned to look at my mom who smiled, "You look deep in thought." I chuckled as Gabi glanced at me while I took a bite of food that was phenomenal. "Just thinking how beautiful Gabi is," Gabi's cheeks flamed with embarrassment, "Troy," I laughed. "What? It's exactly what I was thinking about. You are beautiful and how lucky I am to have you in my life." She just smiled while glancing down but I saw the water collecting in her eyes. I reached under the table to grab her hand as she squeezed mine back as we all continued to eat, share stories, and drink together.
The ladies all started to bag and give away leftovers while us guys started the cleaning. It was all taken care of in thirty minutes while we all belly-ached over how full we were from all of our food. Gabi went and kicked her legs up in on the couch as the girls started to grab cards. "Are you going to join them?" I asked plopping down next to her and she shook her head as she pressed her face into my shoulder. I chuckled as she was probably exhausted from the past two days. I hooked my arm around her and tugged her into my lap. Her head rested on my shoulder while I stroked her hair. Blaine, Brady, James, my dad, and Andy all filtered into the room. Lucy was laughing about something with Macken, "Gabs?" Beth called out as she took one look in the living room and shook her head.
"Is she asleep?" I questioned and Beth nodded her head, "She looks tired, Bolton. What are you doing to her?" Colt questioned with a teasing grin and I just shook my head. "It was all the cooking. I swear," I threw back with a laugh. Beth just shook her head before returning back to the kitchen to play. The game started as we all talked about the Cowboys and how their season was going. Gabi hardly moved on top of me and I was glad we weren't hosting tomorrow. We were just bringing a dessert.
"Troy, are you ready for the big match up?" Colt questioned and his eyes lingered on Blaine as Blaine fought off a smirk. They were undefeated so far this season. James Island had only lost two games but that was worse than their zero. "It'll be fun and competitive," I offered back as Blaine just tilted his head back with a laugh. "Whatever, Bolton." Blaine tossed back and I just gave him a smug look. "Easy tiger or we will be dueling out front before too long."
"Now that would be fun," Colt piped back and I sent him a grin, "You wanna go?" I questioned and he just grinned, "You gotta wake up that girl,"
My eyes flickered down to Gabi as I let my fingers tie through her hair. "Yea, yea, I wouldn't want her to miss me beating your ass." Blaine just chuckled again as everybody started to move around and I gently moved Gabi off my lap. She flickered her eyes around for a moment and then landed on me. "Blaine has dueled me to a basketball match. I must go." Gabi laughed as she pushed up. "I must go watch," I smiled as I helped her up and off the couch as most everybody was moving for the door.
Luna was excited to go outside as we all went out. Blaine was already shooting up shots as I shook my head, "Sorry if I embarrass you," I shot out and he just grinned, "C'mon, Troy, I'm ten years younger."
"12, he just turned 29." I shot a look over towards Macken. Gabi let out a laugh as I just shook my head. We didn't do much for my birthday this year because I had a basketball game and then a tournament the following weekend. Gabi treated me to a dinner with a little present from her and her mom made me my own cake after she learned that I was a German chocolate fan. I bounced the ball to Blaine.
"Let's see if a 29-year-old can beat a 17-year-old,"
Gabi's POV
Troy and Blaine were laughing nearly hysterically on the court after a very tight game with each other. They traded back and forth to who was winning and who took the lead away from the other but they were having a blast together. Hearing Blaine laugh like that made my heart warm inside. My dad sat on the other side of me and he smiled, "How are you feeling?" he asked and I motioned to the ball in my abdomen. "A little…hefty and tired." I told him honestly. He chuckled, "That is fair. How many weeks left?"
"Officially? 11. They don't think I'll make it that long though," I told him with a bit of nerves eating at my skin. "It'll be okay. Troy will take care of you. He will take care of those babies and whatever happens will happen for a reason." He reminded me. I leaned into him as he wrapped his arm around my shoulder. "To say I wasn't scared would be a lie but I know these two have a plan and they are going to follow their plan." My dad kissed my head softly. "That brings up something I else I wanted to talk to you about. I know we typically go away for Christmas but with you bring pregnant with twins…I feel like we should stay here or go somewhere close."
I gave him a brief smile, "We can stay here. I don't want to drag Troy from his family," I said looking at him as Colt and Brady had joined in on the little basketball match. Neither of them truly won but they had fun and Troy showed that he still truly had it. "I just want to make sure you are okay with that. I know…I know how hard this past year has been for all of us." I gave him a smile and I squeezed his hand. "Zoey would want us to all be together and you're right. I don't want to be away from my doctor and go into labor or something." My dad nodded as he kissed the top of my head, "You are going to be an amazing mother," he whispered and I couldn't stop the tears. It was useless being this pregnant and somebody saying something remotely emotional.
"I wish Zo was here for this part of my life." My dad just hugged me tightly and I hugged him right back as I tried to stop all of the tears. "She is so proud of you," he whispered into my ear. "I know because I am so proud of you. You have overcome so much in the past 16 months, Gabi. You found yourself and you found such a wonderful man for you and these two babies. I know Troy is going to do everything he can for you." I just nodded as I wiped away my tears.
"I love you," he told me as he gripped my cheek and I leaned into his touch. "I love you, too." He smiled before standing up and walking to go check on James and Lucy. I wiped a few tears away and it wasn't but five seconds later that Troy Bolton was sitting right next to me. "Are you okay?" I just nodded my head, "My dad said that he was proud of me and knew that I was going to be a wonderful mom and it just got me really emotional." Troy smiled as he swiped at my cheeks to get rid of any remaining tears that were lingering behind.
"Well, to just add to it, I know you are going to be an amazing mom. I knew it from the moment I met you." I just hugged him because I couldn't handle any more emotional conversations right now. "I also told him how I wish Zoey could see this part of my life and that's when he told me that she was proud of me and he knew because he was so proud of me for everything these past several months have endured." Troy nodded, "I am, too. You are the same but not the same girl I met nearly a year ago. You're stronger. Resilient. I can see you battle wounds and I know that you are going to do amazing things with them." Troy just wrapped me up and I settled into the comfort of his body.
"Who won?" I asked and Troy chuckled, "Me but he won't admit it,"
Friday, November 29th, 2019
Troy's POV
The house was booming with all of the voices as we were all gathered in Cameron's house as they were hosting Friendsgiving this year. The girls were all laughing and chatting about babies and weddings. Sage was giving wedding advice to Gabi and Sara while the other girls listened. I don't think Josie was anywhere near ready for that conversation and I sure as hell knew Dylan wasn't. "Guys," Cameron called and I raised an eyebrow before he nudged his head outside.
"Do you need me?" Lennon called, "No, thanks though babe," Lennon settled back into the couch with a glass of wine as she was laughing about something. Gabi caught my eye and I shot her a wink as we walked outside. "Troy, stand on the door," I shot a look towards Cameron and then over to Jesse who just shrugged his shoulders in confusion. I watched the door as he exhaled before pulling out a little black box that I was familiar with.
"Shut up, when," I said quietly making sure my voice didn't carry and he cracked a grin, "A random Tuesday, I don't know which one yet but just a random one. I plan on just going to dinner which we typically do on Tuesday's since we both work late and then I'll do it in the park across from the restaurant I am going to take her. Do you think she'll like it?" He popped the box open and we all stared at the oval ring on a white band.
"She's going to love it," Dylan said with a smirk, "Are you guys really going to just leave me?" Dylan joked and we all laughed, "Buddy, you are locked in on her. There is nothing from you to run from now. She found you and has you pinned so far deep…" Dylan just rolled his eyes. I couldn't stifle my laugh as I tipped my beer backwards. "She is going to love all of it." I told him with a nudge and he scrubbed his face with his hands.
"Do you think I should? Or should I wait?" he started to stress as all of us laughed. "Bro, you have Bolton who proposed after eight months, Jesse who it took nearly three years, Jax who literally waited until Sara planned the wedding and then well…it will take Dylan another like solid year." We all laughed besides Dylan who just rolled his eyes upward. "You all are impossible,"
"You do it when you feel it," I encouraged with a nudge and he just smiled, "I really want her to be my wife."
"Then do it."
He just grinned, "Yea, I think I am. Soon. If you get a text on a Tuesday night then well…" we all just smiled and shook our heads. Our friend group had doubled in the past two years with all of these ladies and I couldn't be happier. "I actually I have something that I want to say to all of you. Gabi the other day was talking about everything and I mentioned that our friends were coming and she just kinda paused because she became one of us and I…I want to thank all of you for welcoming her into your lives. I know you didn't have too. I know that we would still be friends if you didn't but…she needed you guys just as much as she needed me in her life. The friends. The extra girls. That's what she needed and I am thankful you all gave it to her."
"Jesus, Bolton, are you trying to make us all cry on Friendsgiving?" Jax said and I smiled, "I just had to say thank you. I know the beginning of our relationship was hard on everybody but I can't wait to welcome these babies and then marry her ass because I want her to be mine and I am thankful ya'll accepted her."
"She's better than half of the other girls you dated," Cameron pointed out and I just rolled my eyes. "Yea, not so funny is it Bolton?" Dylan nudged me and I laughed with a smile on my lips. The door opened as Cameron jammed the ring back in his pocket as Gabi poked her head out. "Dinner is about done. Lennon wanted me to come grab you boys." Her eyes swept around for a moment before landing on me with a look of suspicion on her face.
"We'll be right in," I said to her and she just shook her head as a smirk climbed on to her lips. She shut the door and I just laughed, "She knows."
"What the fuck? How? Can she also read your mind?" I shook my head with a laugh, "No, I mean, maybe. She's just smart as a whip and maybe a little bit of mind reading is involved." The group all laughed as we started to head inside. I stopped short and grabbed Cameron, "She'll love that it's a random Tuesday and she's amazing for you. I know after Riley you weren't sure about dating again. I'm happy for you." He smiled as he nodded, "I couldn't have done it without all of you."
Cameron started to walk inside but stopped, "I can't wait to watch you become a dad Troy, you will be amazing and you will be an amazing husband to her. She's an amazing woman who has been through too much and I am thankful she snagged somebody like you." My heart thudded in my chest and I nudged him, "Who's getting soft now?" I said and we both just laughed as we went inside to join our friends.
HAPPY SUNDAY! I am SO happy I got this update out before the day was over! I didn't write anything over the last two weeks because I was slammed with so many other things! But I finished just in the knick of time! I can't wait to see what you think of HER name! I am so excited!
The boy name will be shared in the next chapter
Let me know your thoughts!
Thanks for the patience over the last couple of weeks! I appreciate it!
Next Update: August 15th
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