Chapter 44 – Championships
Thursday, March 19th, 2020
Troy's POV
I couldn't stop tapping my foot up and down with the nerves of the first game tonight. We were set to play tonight and Saturday. Well, Saturday if we won. I was so distracted and I was thankful spring break was next week so I could focus on championship weekend or if we didn't make it, I could focus on my family. They deserved attention. My kids. I truly didn't understand the guilt until I had them. People talked about it but I shrugged it off saying I could always focus on basketball.
They would always give me a smug smile with a shake of their head. They knew. I wouldn't know until I had them. I miss them. I'm barely home right now. We're either at work, at practice, or in a film session, or just watching film. I was constantly texting Gabi apologizing for my constant absence. She was a saint and never cared. She told me to take my time and do what we needed to do. I took a full week of PTO, instead of two days, for the week before Gabi returns to work. I wanted to spend the entire week with her doing – whatever. We could go somewhere, we could just hang out, we could do whatever.
I didn't care. I just wanted time with her and I felt like I owed her that.
"Coach Bolton, you can't stop moving," one of my students called out as I was a jittery mess. "C'mon, Aaron, we're in the two biggest games this weekend to go to the final four. He's nervous." Dante, one of the younger kids on our team, spoke out. I laughed, "Agreed. I'm nervous. I'm also thinking about all the things I want to tell the team later today." The class all murmured as we were leaving an hour before school let out. It was my free hour and the coaches who didn't have free hour were able to get subs so we could get to the college for a shoot around and to get ready.
The kids were all preoccupied with a project and I was preoccupied with tonight. I looked up at the clock to see that it was nearly time for the first bell. This was my lunch hour and I planned on sitting here and making sure I had everything ready for tonight. My God, I had so many papers to grade and grades to input into the computer. They talk all about coaching at high school but they never talk about being a teacher on top of it.
I stood up as I tucked my hands in my slacks, "Okay, I'll see you all after spring break, have a great week, be good, and please finish your projects. We will present the first Monday back in school. I gave you all of today to get it finished so – that's on you if you have homework." The class grumbled as the bell rang overhead and I let them go. We had block scheduling at our school so I only saw my kids every other day. I had a whole different set of kids tomorrow.
They all started to file out as I went to shut my door. Cameron saw me from down the hallway and I grinned at him with a wiggle of my fingers as he shook his head. I shut my door while I sat down, popped open my laptop, and picked up where I left off earlier. I was mostly at this point re-watching everything so that I knew what to expect. This was more my homework and less for my players. Coach's had tendencies. I was looking for our opponents coach, Matt Elliott, and his tendencies. These were the teams we didn't play often, or ever. I only knew Matt before of our coach's meetings every year.
My door opened and I looked up as I grinned, my beautiful girl with the stroller was in front of her with two bags of food. "What are you doing here?" I asked standing up. She just smiled, "I knew you would probably try and skip lunch and we were trying to prevent that. You need to eat and we figured we would bring our favorite daddy and coach some food." My chest was warm as she stepped through the door way and the door shut behind her.
"Did Shannon let you back?" She nodded with a big smile, "She did. It only took her getting to see the babies." I laughed as I stood up. I went over to peek into the stroller to see two sleeping babies. I would do anything to reach in and hold them but I also knew that it wasn't worth interrupting a nap. Instead, I looked up to see my beautiful girl who surprised me. I reached for her as she had put down the backpack and was starting to get food out.
I pulled her into me and she laughed, "Troy,"
"I love you, thank you for coming, I needed this," I whispered into her hair. She wrapped her arms around my body and buried her head into my neck. "I miss you," she whispered. I closed my eyes as I just held onto her tightly. "I owe you such a date night and then I owe you a spa day away from these two nuggets." Gabi laughed as I pulled back for just a moment but she just buried herself in deeper. I smiled as I sat on the desk and I tugged her between my legs. My arms wrapped around her tightly as I let my chin rest on her head. "Can we just do this for thirty minutes?" I laughed as I kissed her hair and just breathed in her shampoo.
"I mean, that's fine by me. I'll still be missing my lunch." We both laughed together and she relaxed from my hold. We took a seat at the desks as she brought me a soup and salad from our favorite little café. "How were the babes this morning?" she looked over at the stroller and she shrugged, "Saylor was fussy and only wanted to be held. Sutton wanted his own attention. It was a hard morning." I frowned, "I'm sorry. You're doing so much right now. I wish I was helping more. I want to help more."
"You're almost done." She spoke with a shrug. "We'll be fine."
"Sunday, no film, no practice, no nothing. Just the two of us with those two." I said with a nudge. "A family day." Gabi laughed, "Troy, seriously, I understand if you have to watch film and get ready. My comment was in no way to mean that you need to be doing more. It was just the honest truth of the morning. They are finally napping and I honestly needed out of the house and I really fucking needed to see you."
Our eyes aligned and I gave her a smile, "Sunday," I repeated back to her. She just gave me a half smile before digging into her salad. "Are you able to focus at work? Or are you just as distracted as you are at home?" A laugh echoed from my mouth with a nod as I took a bit of my sandwich. "I'm constantly looking at the clock waiting to leave. I am just…I am so excited." Gabi gave me a smile as my door burst open again. "Bolton," Cameron barely looked up as he came jogging into the room.
"I was watching film for," Cameron paused as one of the twins cried out. He looked up finally and he grimaced, "I'm so sorry, I just…I knew Troy was on his break." Gabi shook her head with a laugh, "I figured you would all be in here if you want my honest opinion." Cameron smirked as he plopped down next to me and he grabbed some of my chips. "Carry on," Gabi mentioned with a wave of her head. Cameron gave me a look and I just nodded as he showed me the film as Gabi lifted Sutton out of the car seat as he was fussing.
My eyes watched the entire time and I felt in awh of her and the situation. "Troy," I snapped my eyes to Cameron and he shook his head with a smile. "Yea, I'll come back later." He stood up to leave and Gabi watched with a confused look on her face. "What is that about? I told him to continue." I laughed. "I'm too distracted by you and this little man," I got up and Gabi handed him to me. He was on a sleeper with alligators on his feet. "Hi Sutton, hi buddy," I kissed on his cheek and I hugged him to my chest. The bell rang overhead and I frowned, "I'm sorry," I whispered to her. "I'll wait up for you tonight." She whispered back as she tugged on my polo.
I hesitated and she shook her head at my hesitation, "I don't care. I want five minutes alone with you." I just gave her a smile and a nod. I wasn't going to argue with that statement.
Gabi's POV
My whole family and Troy's whole family packed in a little section as my stomach was so sick. Blaine was holding Saylor while Brady had Sutton. It was a good thing they all had them because I was shaking and I was so nervous for him. We were in an arena and we couldn't get as nearly as close to them but it gave me a good view of him. They were all in their suit's sans tie – there favorite way to get dressed for the games.
They were doing their normal half-time warm up and my eyes glanced up to see the score in the corner. We were down by five and I was chewed on my finger nail. Troy's hair was so messed up from the stress of the game. God, I hated how much it was a turn on seeing him like that. The whistles blew and Troy called his players back over. I watched him take a deep breath as Lennon screeched leaning forward. "I am so fucking nervous," she whispered.
Sage laughed as she rocked Noah on her shoulder, "How are you doing?" I asked her. She smiled, "Good, I mean, nervous for this situation but with the baby and with myself really good. Jesse is amazing with him and allows me to rest throughout the day. I am going to be so sad when he goes back to work." I nodded my head, "I know. I hate when Troy goes to work every morning but it is what it is. I think he has something up his sleeve about taking time off of work eventually. I saw him making sub plans not too long ago."
Sage gave a soft smile, "I think he hates going to work as much as you hate seeing him go to work." I nodded as I looked over at my two babies who were almost three months old. I wasn't sure how in the world they got that big but they had. I swallowed down on the fear as I knew I was running out of time with them. "I hate that I have to go back to work. I just…I want to be with them all day every day."
"You are going to be doing the best for them – plus Troy will have them all summer long." I nodded as I wanted one of my kids. I wiggled my fingers over for Saylor and Blaine laughed as he gave her over to me. She tilted her head back to look at me and I smiled as I brushed her little cheeks with my fingers. She gave a gummy smile before pressing her head into my chest. I wrapped her up in my arms as the game whistle blew to bound in the ball.
I nibbled on my lip as I watched as Troy crouched down to watch the game unfold. His own teeth biting on his lower lip as his eyes watched his players as he jumped up yelling something as he started to chew out the ref. Macken laughed, "I love when Troy gets all worked up. It's funny." Brady couldn't contain his own laugh. "It's how I feel in the box at football games. If I had a microphone into the headset of the ref, I would be chewing them out."
"Good thing you aren't on the sideline, son. You have way more of a hot head than Troy," his dad said teasing him. I couldn't stop my smile as Saylor cried and twisted her head again. It wasn't nearly as loud at this game so I didn't bring their little head phones. I kissed on her head as I rested her in my arms and I wrapped her up in her favorite blanket as she snuggled into my body. She cried out again and pushed away from my body as the gym screeched with excitement. My eyes looked up to see that Andy hit a three pointer and all the guys were cheering.
Saylor rubbed her eyes and cried again as I gave her a pacifier. We had only nursed in public a handful of times and nowhere near this busy but I knew that's what she wanted and I wasn't missing this game. I draped her blanket over my shoulder and unbuttoned two on my shirt as it was a nursing hoodie that slipped as I adjusted just enough and she latched on hungry. She was also tired from her lack of afternoon nap.
My eyes intensely watched the game unfold as the score became tied as we entered the fourth quarter. Saylor fell asleep at my breast as I pulled her off and just cradled her to my body. Brady was holding a sleeping Sutton as well and I was glad that they were able to get a small cat nap in here. Troy's hair was practically standing up on its own as he talked with each of his players before the fourth quarter. Sara was walking around behind us stressing, Lennon was chewing on her nails, Josie was intently watching and I had a strong feeling she had a basketball background. Sage was mostly just staring at Noah and loving on him.
Lucy wiggled over as she peeked in on Saylor. "Why is she sleeping?" she asked. "She's tired. She didn't get a good nap today."
"It's loud in here, I can't believe she can sleep." I laughed with a nod, "I know what you mean. She loves it though." Lucy smiled looking at her. "I can't wait until she is bigger and I can play with her." I gave her a brief smile. "One day," I told her. That tugged on my heart because I couldn't wait to witness the scene but at the same time, I didn't want my little girl growing up so quickly. I didn't want either of them to grow up quickly.
The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth game of the leaders until James Island finally broke through and started to pull away with two minutes left. Troy was patient and never lost faith that his team could do it. He waited for mistakes and once the mistakes happened – they executed. The other team tried to foul and work their way back in but it wasn't happening. Troy was grinning as the buzzer sounded and all the boys piled amongst each other bouncing around with excitement as they were in the final eight.
We were all standing and cheering which woke both of the babies up. I tucked them back into their car seat as Troy already said they were staying for the first half of the next game as they were going to play one of those teams. I nodded as Brady began to tuck Sutton back into his car seat as I did the same for Saylor. She screamed as I put her back in as they were both probably hungry, exhausted, and needed to do their bedtime routine.
Sutton cried out as I gave them each their binkies and I tucked their blankets in. I looked up to see that James Island had gone to the locker room. I frowned as I was hoping I was going to get to say bye to Troy. That he could see the kids before we disappeared. "Gabi, do you need help?" Brady asked. I just nodded as I grabbed my things, "Wait, are you not going to stay and say hi?" Saylor screamed again and I shook my head. "They are both exhausted, they both need to eat, and I have a full bath time to do." I said with a tiny smile.
They nodded as they each bid the babies good-bye and Brady picked up Sutton's car seat. We headed down the bleachers, "Wait, wait," I paused as I heard Troy's voice and I turned around to see him jogging towards us. Brady stopped as I sat down Saylor and I met Troy in the middle as I gave him a big hug. He squeezed me to his body and he kissed on my head. "I'm proud of you, baby. You are amazing," I felt the curl of his lips against my hair. "Thanks for staying. I knew you were probably going to leave pretty quickly and I just needed a hug." I gave him a quick kiss as he looked at Brady who had Sutton. He reached for Saylor's car seat, "C'mon, I'll walk you to the car."
"Are you sure? Shouldn't you be celebrating with the team?" I questioned. Troy shook his head, "We did a quick thing but I told them to change and pack up so we can watch the next game. It's time to start thinking about Saturday." Troy folded his fingers with mine and we walked out. I didn't park too far away as I unlocked the door and both Bolton boys were snapping in car seats. Troy laughed at something Brady said. I put the car seat in the passenger side and Troy came over to fold me in his arms again. He kissed my hair as they both started to cry. Troy winced, "I'm sorry, I wish I was going to be home to help."
"It's okay," I soothed. "A beer and wine tonight before bed?" Troy smiled as his thumb brushed against my bottom lip. "Yea, I can start the fire pit out back and we can just sit together for a little bit,"
"I'd like that." I whispered to him. He kissed me softly and his nose brushed against mine. "I'll see you in a few hours." I just nodded as he began to jog back into the building. I thanked Brady who found Ada in the parking lots. I waved to my parents and Troy's parents as I got into the car. I knew Blaine, James, and Lucy were staying for one more game. Or at least some of the game. I climbed into the car as neither baby was happy but I was happy to have them.
Troy's POV
I truly hope she was asleep. We stayed for three quarters, then by the time we got back, unloaded the busses, and all of the kids were gone – I needed food. Most of the boys grabbed something at the arena but I was too busy scouting away. It was nearly ten and I knew she was utterly exhausted. She had to do bath and bed by herself. I almost wanted to call in sick tomorrow. I couldn't though.
I closed the door to see lights on in the kitchen but I also heard the TV. I dropped my backpack to the ground and looked into the living room. I couldn't stop my soft smile as she was curled up on the couch fast asleep. Luna was asleep on the other couch. I quietly walked into the living room and I gave Luna a pat who thumped her tail and reached up to scratch her ears. I walked over to sit on the edge of the couch next to Gabi and I gently brushed her hair out of her face and just stared at her for a few moments. She was wearing one of my South Carolina t-shirts from college and a pair of shorts.
Her face was relaxed but I could see how tired she was. She was doing so much on her own and I hated it but it was what had to be done. I honestly needed to watch film tonight but at the same time. I wanted to get her to bed. I leaned forward and brushed my lips against her forehead and then pressed it to her cheek. She stirred underneath of my touch and she lifted those brown eyes open. "Oh my god, I'm sorry. I told you how much I wanted to spend time with you and have a drink and I'm asleep." I chuckled quietly, "Baby, it's okay." I whispered. She closed her eyes again, "You are tired, you should sleep."
She shook her head as she sat up and checked the baby monitor before sliding into my lap. I watched her carefully but with interest, "You know how much you drive me crazy when you run your hands through your hair and you are pretty hot when you get worked up." I felt a throaty laugh leave my throat as her arms circled around my neck. Her forehead pressed against mine and I just watched her as our noses brushed together and her little body wiggled in my lap. Our eyes watching each other almost daring the other to make a move. God, she was absolutely stunning. Those big brown eyes, the tiny dots of freckles over her nose, those pouty lips that each of our children had, and her jawline that I wanted to just…sculpt.
Honestly, I could sit this way with her forever. Mesmerizing her face. Finding each feature that the twins had. Watching those brown eyes stare at me with her eyelids growing heavy with desire. Those were the little things. Her nose rubbed against mine again, her hands playing with the little hair behind my head – my god. I loved her.
She wet her bottom lip and it was my breaking part - I groaned as I pressed our lips together. She gasped and I let my hand grip her ass to pull her closer to me. I fell back into the couch as our lips tangled and navigated with each other as if we hadn't seen each other in days. She let her fingers slip into my shirt and pushed it up. I let her lift it off of me as I went for her, well, my t-shirt. I tossed it onto the floor as I pressed her back into the couch. My body hovered over her body as our lips tangled together, our bodies aligning as I drove her crazy with just simple movements.
"Troy," my name was a gasp on her lips and the only made me crazier. I slid her shorts down her body with her underwear as I let my lips wonder down and further down as I pushed her legs out as I focused on making her scream my name – louder. God, there was some rush about doing this to her and hearing my name on her lips. "Troy, oh my god, Troy," her body couldn't be controlled as I pinned her with my hand as I was so hard. I took my time as she was withering and crying out.
"I need you," she gasped. "I need you, please," she whimpered out and I got up as I ditched my jeans and underwear before sliding over top of her. I pulled one of her legs up as I pressed an inch and she tried to pull me in faster but the slow burn, the slow torture for both of us was sometimes so much better. She arched her back and tried to find me to hold on too. I stared down at her as she was absolutely stunning. I let my finger brush across her c-section scar as I slowly pushed in again as I lowered to press my lips to her lips. I took my time as I kissed her throughout. Her hands tangled in my hair making it even messier.
She bit my lower lip as she climaxed around me and I sped up the pace. "Oh my god," I couldn't breathe. She was my undoing. My absolute undoing. I collapsed on the side of her as our legs hooked together and she cuddled into my chest. I didn't want to go watch film, I didn't want to do anything but take her upstairs and to our bed. I wanted to bury myself inside of her over and over again. "I never thought there would be a day that I didn't want to prepare for a game but it's happening. Right now." Gabi laughed and her fingers found my hair again.
"That was hot," I couldn't stop my own laugh as I pushed up on my forearms and I kissed her softly, "Want me to carry you up to bed?" she shook her head as she reached for my t-shirt and pulled it over her head. "I'm going to lay down here while you watch film until one of those babies wakes up." I narrowed my eyes because nothing was going to be getting done. I stood up as Gabi did as well to go to the bathroom. I went upstairs to change and peek in on both of the babies who were sound asleep in their bassinets.
Saylor had gotten her hands out of her swaddle and up by her face. I stroked her cheek gently as she flinched but remained asleep. I looked over at Sutton who was still tucked in his swaddle. I smiled as I turned to go back downstairs as Gabi was dressed with a blanket on her lap. I grabbed my laptop and my headphones. "Brie, you don't have to stay down here. Go upstairs and get some sleep." I said and she just shook her head as she patted the spot on the couch. I just shook my head as I settled on the couch as she then promptly laid her head in my lap. I shook my head with a smile as I popped open my laptop as my phone started to buzz on the floor. Gabi wiggled and bent over to grab it for me and I smiled. "Thanks babe,"
She made herself comfortable again and I began to answer the text messages.
Cam: Okay, we have five games. We each take a game and tomorrow morning before work we can meet to see what our game plan would be.
Dylan: my god, I don't think I've slept in months.
Jesse: you're telling me
I snorted.
Cam: shut up you two. We are in the elite eight. We can sleep after we are done.
Jax: I just took a cat nap. Let's meet at the high school at 6:15. I'll bring coffee.
Troy: We are taking Sunday off. No film will be watched on Sunday. No working. I already promised Gabi I was taking the day off and spending it with her. Let's push until then.
Dylan: my God Bolton, we are literally almost done. Where have you been?
Jax: Yea you have been oddly quiet, I hope we aren't watching the same film.
Cam: you dumbasses. Troy was silent because he was probably having sex.
I couldn't stop my laugh as I let my fingers run through Gabi's hair. My phone continued to buzz.
Dylan: ohhhhhh you lucky shit
Jax: I'm actually jealous.
Jesse: only Troy could sneak in sex before filming
Dylan: he does have bad stamina
Troy: whoa – sir, I lasted a long time. I had to hurry us along so I can fit in sleep tonight. To be honest – I almost said fuck film tonight and fucked her all night instead but that's Saturday's plan.
Cam: lmao I love you
I rolled my eyes with a laugh as I started the film that they designated me and continued to let my fingers brush along Gabi's hair as I could feel her sleeping underneath of me. I smiled watching her and I took a picture of her and sent it to the group chat. The next time we played wasn't that good and I think we could easily out play them if we got ready properly.
Jax: Sara told me to fuck off when I got home. How did you find that girl who lays with you while you watch film?
Cam: Lenny fell asleep next to me. I think she also wanted sex but I wanted sleep. I chose film.
Troy: Wrong move, buddy.
Dylan: Josie left to go home lol she's sick of watching high school basketball on my TV and wow Cam you dumb boy
Jesse sent a picture of Noah on his chest and I couldn't stop my smile because I loved it. I quickly watched the first three quarters before really diving into the fourth quarter when one of the babes, sounded like Sutton, cried out from upstairs. My eyes searched for a clock to see it was nearly midnight. I paused the video as I put my laptop to the side and I went to move when Gabi shifted. Her eyes opened once she heard the crying. Her fingers reached up to her face and she rubbed the sleep away from her eyes. I let my hand brush through her hair as she leaned into my body.
"Are you almost done?" I nodded my head, "I have about fifteen minutes left. Go upstairs," I told her. "Feed Sutty,"
She just nodded her head and I kissed the back of her head before I helped her off the couch. She wrapped her arms around me and her head rested on my chest. Sutton cried louder and Gabi tried to separate but I just picked her up and let her wrap her body around me as I took her upstairs. Her head rested on my shoulder as I sat her down on the bed. I pulled back to kiss the top of her head as I undid Sutton's swaddle while giving him a binky. I changed his diaper and I then turned to hand him to Gabi.
She smiled, "Thank you," I nodded as I kissed her head again. I hopped downstairs as I sped through the last fifteen minutes of the film as there wasn't much new to be seen and I closed the laptop as I shut down downstairs and jogged upstairs. She was still feeding Sutton as I let my eyes fall onto her as she stared at him. Saylor was wiggling in her spot as I walked over to unwrap her and change her diaper before sitting on the bed next to Gabi.
"Here, switch," Gabi said and I smiled as we made a switch and I went over to wrap Sutton back up and I rocked him in my arms. "Night little buddy," I whispered as I barely saw them these days and I swear they were getting way too big. I kissed his head once he was back asleep and I put him in the bassinet. "Saylor, baby," I turned as I watched her struggle with Saylor. She cried and pressed against Gabi and tried to wiggle away.
Gabi looked exhausted and I sat down next to her, "Do you want me to make a bottle?" I asked her. She shook her head and tried again with Saylor. She latched but only for a few moments before crying. "I don't want to pump," the emotion that came out with Gabi's voice made my own wave of emotion for her. "Let me see her for a minute," I took Saylor as she settled in my grip and I kissed her tiny little head. "C'mon little mama," I whispered into her ear. I gave Saylor back to Gabi and she latched and finally started to eat.
I wiggled behind Gabi as she relaxed into my chest. Her own eyes were heavy as I just watched her be such an amazing mom. "What did you say to her?"
"Nothing of importance, I just think she needed to settle down."
I dropped my lips into Gabi's hair and my fingers folded with her fingers.
Saturday, March 21st, 2020
Troy's POV
I wasn't wrong. We were up by fifteen and I was all smiles during the fourth quarter. We were going to the final four. My god, we were actually going to do it. We were actually going to make it. My eyes looked over to see Gabi laughing with the girls. Saylor was sitting in Lennon's lap, Gabi had Noah, and Sutton was with Sara. Macken and Brady were sitting with her and my parents on row back. My eyes focused on my players next who were executing flawlessly.
"We're doing it," Dylan said next to me. I looked over at him and I smiled as I nodded, "We're going to Columbia." We both laughed together as I gave him a high-five. The other coach called a time out and I waved the boys over and they all took a seat. My eyes focused on the clock to see two minutes left. The score was nowhere near possible to come back from even if we let them just keep shooting. "Andy, you are in for Justin. Antonio you are in for Quinton. Camden you are in for Jaxon." I directed as the players all switched. "I want you to all focus and let's finish this. We are two minutes and twenty seconds from the final four. Can you feel it? Taste it?" the group all nodded and I smiled, "Don't lose the focus, okay?" they all nodded as we yelled before they headed back towards the court.
I took a seat in the chair as Jesse leaned forward, "You aren't joking about taking tomorrow off?" I shook my head. "I was not. I need some time with my kids and my fiancé." I said with a shrug as I watched the game unfold. I was mostly letting them play at this point. The guys on the bench were all grinning and smiling as we were going to be leaving for Columbia on Thursday morning. We would practice Thursday afternoon and our first game would be Friday.
If we won – we played Saturday night.
The championship game.
I shook my head because I thought it was a pipe dream to make it that far as a coach but here, I was. One game away. The whistles blew, the horn sounded, and our crowd was cheering. I stood up as I hugged each of my coaches as we lined up to shake hands. "Great game, Coach Bolton. You are going to do big things," their coach, Anthony Winston, spoke and I nodded. "You have a hell of a team. Be proud," he nodded with a smile as we all began to head to the locker room but I paused and I turned towards the crowd as there was a baby exchange. I smiled watching as I walked back into the locker room where they were all buzzing and bouncing around.
"Okay, okay, I want you all to celebrate this win. I want you to enjoy it but we have more work today," I said as the locker room started to quiet down. "You all played extremely well and I am very proud of each and every one of you. Tonight, and tomorrow, you will not do anything basketball related. You will rest. You will do homework. You will sleep. Rest. You will hang out with your friends. As long as you stay out of trouble and show up Monday morning ready to work your asses off for the next six days – we will be bringing home a championship trophy."
The buzz in the locker room grew as I smiled. "We can do this you guys; we can win this damn thing. We just have to focus. We have to buckle down and have one more week. Okay?" the all nodded as we got together and I released them to go change and give them thirty minutes to get on the bus.
All of the coaches, plus myself, all began to walk out of the locker room. Jesse went straight for Noah, Cameron was spinning around Lennon, Dylan was already making out with Josie, and Jax was hugging Sara. My eyes zeroed in on Gabi as she was buckling a baby into a car seat. I walked over and I rocked on my heels as I glanced at her. "So…I may have a little something up my sleeve. You can say no but I want to propose it to you first."
Gabi snapped her head up and she grinned as she bounced up and threw herself at my body. I laughed as I caught her and she hugged me so tightly. "I am so so so proud of you. I love you," she whispered into my ear. I closed my eyes with a smile as I squeezed her. "I love you, baby." We kissed and she crinkled her eyes. "What do you have to propose?" she asked me. I let her feet hit the floor and I cupped her face. "So – I asked my mom to see if she wanted to keep the twins for the evening." Gabi frowned and I let my forehead tilt to meet her. "I would take them over there or we could together and then I would pick them up before their first feeding in the morning. I want to take you to get a drink and I want to have your full attention for the night." I said as I looked down at her.
"Then we can have a full family day tomorrow. I am going to grill out and we can invite both of the families over."
She didn't say anything and I brushed her hair away from her face. "If you don't want to do it, if you aren't ready, then that's fine." She let her head hit my chest and she sighed, "I spent the first six weeks away from them. I don't think I'm ready to spend a night without them yet but I want to have that night with you." I cupped her face and I pressed my lips to her lips. "Do not feel bad for making that decision. I told my mom it might be a long shot but maybe we can have her come over to put them to bed. We can grab a drink together and maybe we can…"
"We can put them to sleep in their room," Gabi offered and I couldn't stop my grin. "Our intermissions can be feeding time," I laughed. "Sounds like a romantic date to me,"
Wednesday, March 25th, 2020
Troy's POV
"Would you guys care if I drove down with Gabi? We'd just be behind the bus again. That way she isn't alone in the car with the twins. She asked her parents to come with her but they had stuff going on this weekend and Beth was with Colt. We were all at the gym before practice as we were making our game plan for our first game. "I was going to ask the same about Sage." I glanced over at him as the other three looked at each other.
"You want us three to wrangle all fifteen of them?" Dylan questioned. "Lennon, Sara, and Josie are all riding together." Jax pointed out. I bit my lip, "If it wasn't so far away, I wouldn't ask but it's a long trip for her and the babies. We should be able to avoid stops if we time our departure right unless Sage will need to stop with Noah. We can always go to a gas station for a stop to keep us all together."
"Yea, yea, just remember this when we all have kids." I laughed with a nod. "Fair enough, I really appreciate it you guys. She didn't ask. I just don't want her having to do it by herself."
The guys all agreed as we finished our game plan and the guys started to enter the gym. Luna was sitting underneath of my feet as she hadn't been to practice in a while. Gabi was doing some wedding stuff today with her mom as Sunday was amazing with her. We started our day in our bed as the twins had their first night in their crib. They actually slept terrible in there and were in our room by two in the morning.
It didn't stop me from making sure my girl had a good morning. We just chose the shower instead. I bounced the basketball as Luna started to chase the guys as I was in a pair of baggy sweats with a t-shirt as I wanted to keep practice light and fun today. The season was starting to wear on each of them and we had a long weekend to go. Once they were each stretched out and warmed up, I just grinned – "What is the smile for Coach B?"
"Today we are going to have a short practice and we're not going to focus on plays or anything like that – we're just going to play a pick-up game. Light and easy. No roughhousing. We have a couple of big games this weekend. All five coaches will be playing and we are going to have fun today. I still expect all of you to watch film tonight and be ready to talk about it tomorrow morning before we leave for Columbia."
The group mumbled with excitement as I blew my whistle and we all got in on the pick-up. I hadn't been able to play basketball with them in a while and it felt good to pick up the ball. There was more laughter on the court and jokes were being casted as the group I found myself laughing more and more with the guys as we were scrambling and having fun. I took a shot for a three and it sank into the basket as the buzzer sounded.
"COACH B!" Justin yelled and I laughed as I shook my head, "Ya coach still has it," I taunted as the group laughed. Luna was patiently waiting around as we went for round two. My shirt was soaked through as this was fun for all of us but at the same time, I was getting to watch them make their own decisions on the court. The group was fluid together as we actually went over our practice time but there were little complaints about it. I blew my whistle and everybody stopped as I couldn't catch my breath. "Make ten free throws a piece and then we can be done. Okay? Watch film tonight, go over the game plan that we have presented, and I want you to be ready when you show up tomorrow to be at your best until Saturday night at the last buzzer. Be here at 10 tomorrow morning. We will watch film till 11 before getting on the bus."
The group nodded and we broke it down as they went to shoot free throws as I threw myself onto the floor. "I'm getting to fucking old for that," my friends groaned their own agreement. I stretched my own body out but I was soaked in sweat but it was so much fucking fun. I smiled as I watched the guys hit their free throws and slowly begin to exit the gym. I stood up as I packed my bag, "You all want to come over tonight? We can finish watching film and I can cook some food for all of us."
The guys each looked at each other because watching film together was more fun than separate. "Yea, sure, Gabi cool with it?" I nodded. "Yup, I think she thinks if we do it all together, I might go to bed before three am." The group laughed as I locked up and we all headed towards our cars. Luna was five paces in front of me and sat by my car door. "five thirty?" I threw out and they all agreed as I got into the car and called Gabi.
"Hey, practice already over?"
"Yea, we had some fun today. We just scrimmaged."
"Ah that's fun. Are the guys coming over?"
"Yea, are you still cool with it?"
"Of course! I'm assuming most of the girls will come over."
"Do I need to grab anything from the store?" I asked her. "No. I did a grocery pick up. I started spaghetti. Is that okay?" I smiled. "Of course."
"I'll be home in five minutes," I hung up as I smiled thinking about the next couple of days. I honestly could care less about how this weekend unfolds. I am just happy we got here. Many high school coaches cannot say this. I did it and I wanted to win it all but this whole weekend was a success just by going. I yawned as I was exhausted but it was worth it. I couldn't wait to go home and snuggle one of the babies.
Luna hopped out and I got out of my Jeep as I followed her to the door. I pushed open the door as the house was quiet and the low hum of the TV on in the background. Gabi was at the counter washing dishes and I smiled as I shut the door. She looked up and she smiled, "Wow, you are sweaty." I laughed as I dropped my bag and I pulled off my shirt. I tossed it into the dirty laundry and Gabi got a twinkle in her eye as I came around to greet her.
"Wow, you look great in those sweatpants." I couldn't stop my laugh as I circled her up in my arms. "I hit a three to win the game." Gabi laughed tilting her head back, "Did you now?" I nodded and she laughed as I caught her lips with mine.
Friday, March 27th, 2020
Gabi's POV
Troy sat on the edge of the hotel bed and he rubbed his thighs as he was dressed up tonight. His hair was perfectly styled as he was zoned out. "Hey," I said with a tiny nudge to his shoulder. They were due to leave in about thirty minutes for the arena. Our trip up yesterday was uneventful and Troy had barely slept since we had gotten here. The twins hadn't slept either so we were all just barely surviving. "Hmm?"
"You, okay?" he nodded his head as he looked up at me. "C'mere," I stood up as I walked over and he pulled me against his body. "I'm trying to figure out what to say to those boys tonight to let them know that I'm proud of them regardless of any outcome. Because I am. Just being here…is amazing. Doing this…is amazing and I don't want them to think that I will be disappointment if we don't end with a trophy in our hands."
"I think you just tell them that. Tell them to go play their hearts out because you just don't know how this is going to end. Play hard because they've worked hard. That you are proud of them regardless of the outcome. I know I am. I know I'm really fucking proud of you. All the long hours, all the hard work, all the film, all the conversations, and just…still making time for our little family? I love you for it."
He scoffed, "I've barely been home for our little family. I cannot wait until this weekend is over for that aspect. To spend time with you. With the babies. I cannot wait." I placed a gentle kiss to his lips, "Why don't we load up those babies and then I can head towards the gym." Troy smiled as he pressed a kiss to my lips. "I love you; I don't know how I can thank you for how amazing you are during basketball season. It's been a crazy one with these babies." I cupped his face and gave him another soft kiss, "I'd walk to the end of the world for you, Troy Bolton."
Troy's smile nearly knocked me over as he kissed me this time and I had to pull him apart from my body. "Save that for later," I said shooting him a wink. He laughed as we packed up the babies in their car seats. Troy carried them down to his Jeep as he handed me his keys. "I'm going to run and grab a drink. I'll be at the arena after that. Okay?" he nodded, "Thanks for the pep talk," I smiled. "I'm proud of you. You are an amazing coach."
"Wait, Gabi!" Lennon came jogging across the parking lot with her skinny jeans, white mules, and a James Island t-shirt with a…is that a bud light? Troy scrunched his eyebrows the same way and he then chuckled, "Now…that is a good idea." I laughed as I gave him one more peck before shoving him towards the bus. "Hi, hey, can I ride with you?" I nodded. "Of course. I'm going to stop and get a drink but it looks like you started early." Lennon just grinned.
"It's not a bad idea, right?" I shook my head with a smile on my lips. "No, it really isn't. Maybe the championship game we can all throw back." We both laughed as she got into the passenger side of Troy's car and she peeked in the back at both of the very awake babies. "How do you think they are going to do tonight?" I grinned, "I think our men have put in the effort." I navigated to the closest McDonalds. "I'm just grabbing a Coke. Do you want anything from here or do you want me to stop at the gas station?" Lenny laughed with a shake of her head. "I'm done. I can't be drunk…or can I?"
We both laughed together as I shook my head, "Oh I do want a thing of fries…"
Troy's POV
My eyes watched the ball circle the rim and fall out as I groaned while they rebounded and took it back down court. I rubbed my lips together and I looked over at Cam who just shrugged as we couldn't get a basket to fall in even if we were dependent upon life. I collapsed in my chair as I watched the game unfold for thirty more seconds before there was a scramble for the ball and they called a jump ball. I called a time-out as it was our ball. I dropped my clipboard as my eyes went up to the clock as we had just started the third quarter and we were down by 12.
The guys came over and I only called a thirty so we stood up. "Look at me," all of their eyes lifted except for two. "Look at me," I said louder and now I had all of their attention. "I am proud of you regardless of this outcome but I would love to see more fight, more effort. I understand, you are taking the shots but take more. I want you to rebound more aggressively. I want you to fight for this. If you thought we were just going to walk in here to the championship you thought wrong. They have more fight. I need to see more fight." I told them as the horn blew. "Go fight. Give this 110%. Lay it all out there." They all nodded as we broke it down and they went back out onto the court.
"Do you think that will be enough?" Dylan asked under his breath as we headed back and I shrugged my shoulders. "I wish I knew." I collapsed back onto the bench as we inbounded the ball after Jesse called a play for me. They worked their way around the court and we took another shot – and missed but this time we rebounded the ball. We set up another play before Antonio threw up a three and sank it. The bench came alive along with our friends and family. I clapped my hands, "Triangle!" I yelled at each of them.
They moved into formation and it was like I saw a different team out there. They were taking the ball from the other team, getting rebounds on offensive and defensive and not letting them get too far ahead with the score. By the end of the fourth quarter, we were only down by six. They all came running over and took a seat as I crouched down. "We have one quarter left, boys. One quarter to show who we really are out there and I want to show them that win or lose we fought. Okay? Eight more minutes."
I nodded towards each of them and they nodded back as we went over our game play for the last quarter. The buzzer sounded and they all ran back out there as I brushed my fingers through my hair and rubbed my lips together. I watched nervously as the first minute was mostly back and forth with no scoring. "How many timeouts do I have?" I asked Jax. "You have two full and a thirty." I nodded as I needed to keep those in my back pocket.
We got the ball back and under a control play passed it around before we hit a three. I jumped with excitement as we were only down by three now. I wanted them to be aggressive on this defensive adventure. I called a play and they pressed hard before the other kid slipped up and we stole the ball. It was a fast break and they went in for a lay-up. The gym was going crazy as the other coach called a time-out as we were only down by one with six minutes left.
Our conversation was short and sweet before sending them back to the court. My stomach twisted with nerves and they scored another two points before we controlled the ball down the court. They held onto it until we were getting pressed and Jones tossed it to Mack. He shot a jumper for a two and it went in. We pressed on defense to snag the ball back for another two pointer which put us in the lead. We were all screaming plays on the sideline as they were all celebrating. "Cam," he looked over at me.
"Next possession, time out. We need to calm them down." He nodded as I watched each and every one of them fight for the ball and when it was stolen and we ran down the court, Cameron was quick on the time out once they crossed half court. "Full," I yelled. They all took a seat as they each got water. "Keep playing like this but remember – act like we are playing West Ashley again. We are still losing this game. Do not get cocky. Do not let up. Continue to fight hard for this. Do not get full of yourselves because you got the lead back. We have three minutes left. Show me how much you want this. Take a deep breath, calm down, and let's do the damn thing."
We yelled as they went back out onto the court and set up the play that we drew up. We sank another three.
I couldn't stop the growing smile on my face.
They played solid defense. They continued to work on offense and they were fouling us by the end trying to get the ball back but we didn't miss on a free throw. The final buzzer went off and I was embraced in hugs and laughs as we had fucking done it. We got the championship fucking game. "WE DID IT!" Dylan screeched and I couldn't stop my laugh as the boys were all dancing and cheering on the court. "C'mon, c'mon," I said wrangling them back towards the line to shake hands.
We shook the other team hands and when I got to their head coach, he grinned, "Bolton, I don't know what you told your team but that was a hell of a comeback. You couldn't hit the side of the barn," I barked a laugh, "I threw up a prayer and just asked them to fight, Coach Lewis," he chuckled with a nod, "Hell of a win, go win it all." I nodded as I went to celebrate with the boys as we were the last game of the night. "Right here, on me," I said before we went to the locker room.
"I want you to know how damn proud of you I am. You all worked so hard for this moment. We have a lot of work to do before our championship game tomorrow. Dylan watched film on both teams the past several days. We're going to go eat pizza in the conference room and watch film. We already have a game plan. This is the bonus to being the second team. We don't have to wait to see who we play. We won this today and we have a quick turnaround. Whoever is able to make that switch – will be the winner of the game tomorrow. We have to forget today so we can win it all. Okay?" they all nodded, "Go change."
They all broke for the locker room and I began to search for her. "This way," Jesse pulled on my shirt and I followed as they were waiting at the edge of the arena. They were higher than us but she had those big brown eyes that were so proud. I smiled as I got closer and she threw her leg over the railing and I jogged over as she pulled her other over, "You got me?" she called down and I grinned, "When do I not?" I asked her.
She smiled before jumping without fear and right into my arms. Her legs locked around me and she hugged me tightly, "You did it, you fucking did it. I was going to puke in those stands but I should have known. My god, Troy, you are amazing," I squeezed her so tight to my body. "I love you, baby." She kissed my head and then my mouth as she just grinned at me. "We're going to the championship,"
Saturday, March 28th, 2020
Gabi's POV
There was thirty seconds left on the clock of the South Carolina High School Championship Game. The game had been so close the entire time. Back and forth with the lead changes and neither team looked that ahead. Troy was so nervous before the game as it was the biggest game of his coaching career. I nibbled on my fingernails with all of my nerves as we were down by two but we had possession of the ball. Each team had one time out left and I couldn't watch.
I never thought I would be this invested in high school basketball but here I was.
Begging for my man to win it all. For him. For his friends. For his players. I wanted him to succeed in the worst of ways. Probably because he made sure constantly that I was succeeding. Even in my worst days he picked me up and showed me that I was worth everything I was given. He deserved this. I wanted this for him. Justin drove in for the basket as he went up and he scored the basket and got the foul called. The James Island bench jumped with excitement as there was twenty seconds on the clock.
Justin lined up to shoot the ball as Troy pulled over Mack to speak to him about something before shoving him back on the court. Troy Bolton was a man I never saw coming into my life. He came fast and furious all because I showed up to a high school basketball game. I shook my head with a smile on my face as Justin made the shot and when they inbounded the ball, we were quick to foul. The most they could get up was one point.
They missed the first one and made the second one.
The game was tied and Troy called his final timeout to set up the play. I watched him closely to see him with that intense look in his eye. The one he gave me when he was so serious about the love that he had for me. He never let me think otherwise. I knew how much he loved me. How much he loved Sutton and Saylor. He was full of love. Dedication. He was the man that I needed in my life the moment he walked into it.
He released the team from the huddle as I gave a smile over towards him. He looked over and I shot him a wink as a smile melted onto his lips. I watched the stress leave his shoulders. I picked up Sutton who was in my lap and I let him know how excited we were for him. His onesie said we love coach B.
Troy shook his head as he focused back on the game and the play, they drew up was almost flawless. They inbounded the ball and had a guy deep who they chucked it, too. He caught it and immediately threw up a three uncontested. The seconds ticked off the clock as the ball hung in the air. It bounced off the rim once, twice, and then a third time before it fell into the hoop. James Island was heard screaming as they were quickly back on defense and again fouled quickly.
This time – the kid missed both of them.
Jones jumped up to grab the ball and he held onto it as the buzzer sounded in the gym.
I wanted to jump up and down with excitement but Sutton would probably hate me. Instead, I watched Troy Bolton nearly collapse to his knees as his team dogpiled in the middle of the court. There were confetti falling from the ceiling of James Island colors as all five guys wrapped each other up into a tight group hug and I couldn't stop the tears in my eyes. I was so fucking proud of him. "Gabi, c'mon," I handed Sutton off to his mom as I followed the girls down to the corner where the James Island students were jumping around on the court. It didn't take long for us to spot the guys and all five of us girls found our guy.
Troy caught sight of me and I jumped up to leap into his arms and he caught me effortlessly. I couldn't stop my tears as I hugged him so tightly. "I'm so proud of you, Troy Bolton. You are such an amazing man, coach, father, fiancée, and role model. You did it. You won the championship, I am so so proud of you," my words came out in a sob and he pulled me back to look at me. His blue eyes rimmed with his own tears and he tilted our foreheads together. "I couldn't have done any of this without you." He whispered to me. "You sacrificed so much to let me get this. I love you, soon to be Mrs. Bolton," I closed my eyes at the sound of it and I just hugged him so fucking tightly.
He kissed my lips hard and they called him over for the trophy presentation. He nodded, "I'll be right here. I'm going to get out little ones so we can take a family picture." Troy smiled with a nod as I walked over as I grabbed Lennon. We each grabbed a twin from his parents and invited them down. She handed me Saylor as I held both while they did the trophy presentation to each team. The kids had t-shirts and I saw all five grown men with tears in their eyes.
"SPEECH," Dylan yelled out towards Troy as he just laughed as he held the trophy. The smile on his face. The twinkle in his eye. I just fell a little bit more in love with him.
"First off, I want to congratulate the other team." He spoke. "Brinley High – you played one hell of a game. Thank you for such great competition. You didn't make it easy and you all deserve a ton of recognition for getting this far and doing this well and making it such a fun game." The gym clapped as Troy smiled. "To my team – you all worked so hard. You showed up to practice every single day ready to work. You did your off-season work, your open gyms, weight sessions, and you watched so much film I bet you will never want to watch film again," The gym laughed as Troy smiled easily. "You handled a season where your coaches were having kids left and right during the season and I was gone for an extended period of time – you overcame so much diversity and hurdles that I am so impressed." Troy glanced at each of his players with such a smile. "I am so freaking proud of you guys. You earned this. You deserve this. I cannot wait to throw a celebrating back home with all of our staff and students." The gym clapped as Troy turned his attention to his best friends.
"To Dylan, Jax, Jesse, and Cameron," his voice choked up at the end as he looked at them. He shook his head as he wiped his eyes, "God, I knew it was going to be you guys that got me emotional. We've been best friends since we were their age," he said pointing to his team. "I could have never done this without any of you. You each represent something so big to this team. You each played an important role in this season. Between Gabi having the babies early, the assistance with everything on and off the court, and just being my absolute best friends – thank you to each of you. Finally, on behalf of me and my guys over there. Josie, Lennon, Sage, Sara, and my fiancé Gabi – thank you. Each of you. I know the season is such a grind. You ladies…" he shook his head. "I'm not sure how in the world you put up with us – especially the last month."
We all laughed and I smiled with tears in my eyes watching him. "Gabi, my fiancée, is a true saint. We had twins almost seven weeks early. I went back to work early because of basketball and I just…she has been handling a lot of things at home so I can do this and so that my team and my boys could win this. I absolutely admire her. Sage, just had a baby three weeks ago and hasn't missed a game. Jesse has been watching so much film and she never batted an eye. I told him countless times to stay home and spend time with his son and his wife and I believe she told him no." the group laughed as he focused on the other three.
"Sara, this isn't your first season but thank you for keeping Jax sane. Josie, welcome to basketball season. They aren't always this crazy. Finally, Lennon. Thanks for keeping my girl company, riding to games with her, and being an extra hand. We think you are a pretty good fit for Cameron. Lastly, back to my team. Thank you for letting me coach you, guide you, and be there for you. I am so proud to be here. I am so proud of you. Let's break it down, take a load of pictures, and go get a celebratory dinner before riding home."
We spent the next several minutes taking pictures, passing the trophy around, and Troy came over to grab one of the babies. "I love you," I said as he started to walk away. He turned to face me and he smiled wide, "I love you, too. I'm serious. You were a saint." Troy kissed the top of my head and I paused as I pulled him back.
He raised his eyebrow, "Did you think that day in December when you spoke to me that we would be here? In this gym? With a state championship? With two babies and a ring on my finger?" Troy looked down for a minute and smiled before his eyes found mine again. "If I told you yes – would you believe me?" I paused as I glanced at him. "Okay, maybe a little different. I didn't exactly picture the two babies but that's just an added bonus. Did I imagine that I would be here with you with a ring on your finger? Yea, I did. I knew there was something about you that I needed in my life. I hoped hard for a moment like this. Me, you, a full future in front of us."
I swallowed on my tears and I walked closer to him, "Thank you for walking into my life when I needed you." I whispered.
"Thanks for sitting next to me in that gym." I smiled as our lips ghosted over each other.
"Good thing dancing gave me a bad back," Troy laughed as he kissed my lips. "I love you, Brie. Thank you so much," I didn't know exactly what he was thanking me for but I knew I was just thankful for him.
HAPPY MONDAY and happy valentines day! I hope you all had a great weekend! This story is complete and done and AH! It was so much fun to write overtime. It was such a long story and such a difficult story at times. It spanned a long period of time and I couldn't be happier with how it turned out. Let me know some of your favorite moments!
If you missed it – the preview of the next story was posted at the last chapter!
Nurse Montez will be updated this coming Sunday!
Coach's Wife will debut on April 10th!
PLEASE REVIEW! Let me know your favorite moments!
