Down the Aisle.
Notes.
As soon as Gabriella stepped out the door of her house she was blinded, as usual, with the flashes of insistent cameras. Any hope of going undiscovered was blown now. It angered her that she was followed all the time, and couldn't even go to her rehearsal dinner without causing a scene. But even though she hated it, it wasn't herself she was sorry for. She glanced over at the house beside her, standing tall and lonely. Sitting at the window, in the chair she always used, was Gabriella's landlady. It was her, and the rest of the people who lived on her street whom she was sorry for. It didn't seen fair that they were reduced to this too.
She threw an apologetic smile the lady's way, and she was rewarded with a small smile and wave. They'd never been close, Gabriella knew nothing about her. But she'd given Gabriella and roof over her head, and for that she was grateful.
The flashes continued, getting nearer with every step her heeled foot took. She was dressed to the nines, so no wonder they were curious. But she wasn't going to turn up to her rehearsal dinner in jeans, so they'd just have to mind their own business.
"You look gorgeous, Gabriella!"
"Where are you off to?!"
"Smile this way, Gabriella!"
"Are you excited for the wedding?!"
"I heard you're giving each other dogs instead of rings. Is that true?!"
"Where's Troy tonight?!"
She kept her head down while the questions were blasted at her. But she couldn't help the smile that graced her lips at the sound of Troy's name. It had been a long time since she'd seen his beautiful face, and she couldn't wait until she could see it once again. After waiting over two months, a little over an hour was nothing.
There was butterflies zooming around her stomach, but all were good. She couldn't wait to see him. She couldn't wait to be married to him. And that was tomorrow. When she thought back over the last months, she knew it had gone so very fast. At times, it had gone slower than imaginable, but now it was here, it had come out of nowhere. But it didn't matter that it had jumped upon them so quickly. Because all that mattered was being able to be called Troy's other half. She knew she already was, but it was principle.
As she ducked into the car, the flashing stopped and the annoying clicks disappeared. She sighed, lying back into the leather seats of the car, and closed her eyes. She just hoped that none of the cameras would follow her. So far they had managed to keep their location a secret, thank God. But it became harder and harder to dodge the cars full of reporters and interviewers. After tomorrow, it would all be over. And that was the only thing keeping Gabriella sane.
They drove quickly through the city, the bright lights of London illuminating the darkening streets. She looked tentatively out of the window as they drove past, checking the night sky. The weather forecast had said rain, and taking no chances they had changed their mind from the summer barbeque and took it into a large hall which joined onto the building they would wed in. In the end they had chosen the location which was nice, but not perfect. It was certainly better than the cow barn! She had managed to escape and see it briefly last week, and she'd got very emotional when she'd seen it. The décor was amazing, and it looked more beautiful than she'd ever imagined. But it didn't have that spark the other, small location had had. But never mind, it wasn't the location she was worried about. All she wanted was Troy. It wouldn't have mattered if they had married in the cow barn. At least they would officially be together at the end of it.
"We're nearly there Miss." Her driver and security guard called from his seat.
Gabriella pressed the button and the screen which cut the car in two rolled down. She smiled thankfully at the driver. "Thank you George. One question - are there cars following us?"
George quickly checked his mirror and his grimace told her everything she needed to know. He nodded, apologetically.
She shrugged, sighing. "It's alright. Not your fault. They just don't know when to stop. Can you go around another few times before we reach the reception. I'd rather they were a little lost before I ran for cover."
George chuckled. "Sure, Miss. I'll try and lose them for you."
Half an hour later, and Gabriella was now late for her own wedding rehearsal. She felt ashamed and angered that because of 15 cars filled with people who wanted photos she couldn't turn up on time. She was supposed to get there before anyone else did, so she could welcome the guests and thank them graciously for coming. But she couldn't do that now, and it was all because of them. Even George, her trusty driver was getting irritated. He'd driven around in circles over ten times trying to lose them. But there was too many.
She sighed, grabbing her clutch bag and sliding to the seat beside George. She patted his shoulder. "It's alright George. Thanks for trying. I guess I'll just have to face these wolves. And have them surrounding me at my wedding." Her face dropped. That was the one thing she didn't want.
George looked at her, pitying her. "The best day of your life, and you have to share it with these oafs!"
She chuckled, brightening slightly. "If it has to be done."
"I'm really sorry. I was outnumbered." George apologised yet again.
She shook her head. "Don't worry. Well, I'd better run. I'm late as it is. Kelsi, my wedding planner-ish person, will be going mad!"
George chuckled, before checking in her rear view mirror and unlocking the doors. "You're almost safe to go right now. There's a camera to your left and one in front of the door. I'll hop round and get you in."
"Thanks." Gabriella replied.
George got out of the car, quickly running around to Gabriella's side, before opening the door and using his muscled body to shield her from the cameras and reporters. He rushed her inside, letting her go with a kiss on her cheek and a good luck in her ear.
At that moment Kelsi came running out from the door at the end of the corridor. She looked panicked and already tired. Well, she'd asked to organise this party, so it wasn't Gabriella's fault.
"Thank God you're here. We were getting so worried!" Kelsi ran and threw her arms around her friend, hugging her close as she got her breath back. Gabriella held on tightly.
Kelsi pulled back. "We thought you'd got eaten or something!"
Gabriella laughed, pulling Kelsi back in the direction of the hall. "No. Almost, but not quite. Just a lot of paparazzi know where I'm getting married now."
"Oh, Gabs. I'm sorry." Kelsi looked truly upset.
Gabriella looked down, hiding her disappointment. "It doesn't matter now. I knew it would be difficult. And it turned out I was right. I just… for once…"
Kelsi pulled her into another hug. "I know, Gabs. But hey, you've still got this rockin' rehearsal dinner to look forward to! Everyone's here, and can't wait to see you.' Kelsi pulled back, admiring Gabriella's attire. 'You look stunning Gabriella."
Gabriella blushed, giggling. "Thanks. So do you."
Kelsi shook her off, before exclaiming, "And so does everyone here, who wants to see you!"
She threw the large double doors open, the sound of people chattering away blasting into her ears. As the doors flew open, all eyes turned to her, and she felt herself smile, seeing everyone she loved in front of her. Truly, everyone she cared about was here. How often do you find everyone you love in one room, all together. But they were here, to celebrate with her and Troy, and the thought made Gabriella smile and tears prick her eyes.
Her mother rushed forward, clearly excited about Troy and Gabriella union tomorrow. She crushed her arms around her daughter, pulling her close. The thought about giving her away tomorrow was obviously on her mind. "My darling daughter, you look beautiful."
Gabriella again, blushed. "Thank you Mum."
Gabriella was rushed through the rooms, people talking to her at every corner. There was the aunties she'd not seen in years, the odd person who claimed to be related to her, whom she'd never known existed. The odd cousin who'd had the child. And then there was the people from the business, all crowding around, wanting to get a glance at the girl who finally stole Troy Bolton's heart.
As she went through the crowds, she felt someone tap her shoulder. She spun round and as she glanced at who it was, she smiled. "Jack! Anna! How nice to see you!"
She hugged then both, glad they had arrived safely. Jack and Anna were Troy's parents. She hadn't met them until their relationship had solidified. After all the press had calmed down, he had invited her to stay with them in his old house. It had been a wonderful weekend, filled with laughter and Troy's baby pictures. Needless to say, he had been embarrassed, but had loved that Gabriella and his parents had bonded so greatly. After that time, Gabriella and Anna had become good friends, often calling each other, exchanging details on the son and fiancé they loved so much.
Anna looked at Gabriella. "You look beautiful. And your mother says that you'll look even more beautiful tomorrow. The dress sounds amazing."
Gabriella laughed. "It is, it really is. When I designed it, I had no idea what it'd be like. I'm just glad I like it. I hope Troy does too."
"Has he managed to get you to tell him what it looks like yet?" Jack chuckled heartily.
Gabriella shook her head, smiling. "No, not yet. But it's only until tomorrow. I'm sure he'll be able to stop himself for one night."
"Talking of my lovely son, when will he get here?" Anna asked, a longing look in her eye.
On one of those long, lovely phone calls to his mother, Gabriella had noticed how much Anna missed her sons presence in her life. He'd lived with her for a long time, only moving out when he was around nineteen to pursue his career further. It was clear she missed him very much, and that was why Gabriella often nagged him to phone Anna; she didn't want to pull son and mother apart.
Gabriella smiled at the thought of seeing Troy again. She checked her watch. "Quite soon I suspect. His plane was landing two hours ago, but I'm not sure how long it will take for the car to get from the airport to here. Especially since this location is quite out of the way."
"Out of the way?!" Jack snorted. "I could hardly find the place."
Anna elbowed him in the side, making him wince. "Well, we just hope he gets here soon. And I think the location is lovely, Gabriella. Big, but not too big, and the décor is lovely."
Gabriella nodded. "It is; I cannot deny it. But if you could've seen the other, smaller location…"
Anna smirked. "Well, you never know…"
-.-.-
After several long talks with people inside, Gabriella was getting tired. She loved all the people inside dearly, but at the moment she didn't want to talk to them. She just wanted to be held in Troy's arms again, content as she always was when with him. She stepped outside onto the small balcony, shivering slightly as the cold air hit her body. After wrapping her arms around herself, she just stood, taking in the quiet around her.
"And I thought you couldn't get more beautiful…"
Troy's voice sprang into her ears, making her jump in surprise, and her eyes search frantically for his form. Darkness had filled the sky completely now, with only the stars to brighten it. She couldn't see him anywhere, yet his voice had told her he was near. She could almost feel him; almost taste him. She needed him. Now.
A voice whispered into her ear at that moment.
"No, you're not dreaming."
She spun around, eyes wide and on alert. She took in his dreamy form. Caramel locks which refused to stay away from his amazingly blue eyes. His sturdy body, with not a lot of muscle, but just enough to make her swoon. And then his charming smile, grinning from ear to ear. It sent her heart flying. And it was all she could do to jump into his arms, and pull him closer, where he should stay.
His chuckle floated around her, his arms wrapping around her waist, bringing her closer. His head buried into her soft locks of curly hair, and he breathed in her wonderful scent. His lips dotted around her hair, kissing any part he could reach. They both sighed in contentment, before pulling back, still holding each other close.
"You're home."
He smiled, leaning forward to press their foreheads together. "I am. And that's where I want to stay forever."
She giggled, finally feeling complete. For the last three months she'd felt partly empty. But that was only because her heart belonged to him. But now he was here, and her heart was returned, everything seemed to slot into place. "I love you."
"As I love you," He muttered lovingly, before dragging their heads closer so he could finally capture her lips. She didn't fight him; she didn't want to. She moaned happily, tasting his sweetness on her lips. It had been too long. Passion ignited in both of their bodies, their hands flying over each other, grasping as much as they could take. They were greedy for each other. Gabriella's hands fisted into his hair, pulling his head closer, and tangling their tongues, while Troy held into Gabriella like his life depended on it. It was a magical moment.
They pulled apart, their breathing heavy.
"I've missed you… so much." Troy whispered, tucking Gabriella's fragile head under his chin, wrapping his arms securely around her body. "It's been… almost unbearable." He added, glad he was back where he belonged. As long as he could, he'd stay here with her. Even if it went missing vital roles; he didn't want to be parted from her again. It hurt too much.
Her hands clawed at his shoulders as if making sure he was real. "I've missed you too. But none of it matters now, because you're here."
They stayed in that same position, in mostly silence, for another fifteen minutes. The only sound of their soft, contented breaths and the wind, fluttering through the night sky. The odd bird chirped here, the odd twig snapped there. But nothing could take away the peace that held this moment together.
Gabriella smiled, turning around to face Troy once again. She paused for a second, taking in his beauty once again. "We're getting married tomorrow."
The words made Troy grin, and kiss her lightly on the lips. "Indeed. And I can't wait for you to be my wife, Mrs Bolton."
She laughed, "Is that right, Mr Bolton?"
He nodded, before pressing his lips back to hers. He groaned as his body was woken up by Gabriella. It had been too long since they had last loved each other. There was nothing he wanted more than to scoop her up, and take her away for a few months, with no-one but themselves to be with. Shame there was people inside waiting for them.
It was at the moment, that Anna Bolton decided to burst through the door.
"Gabriella! Stop hogging my son!" She shouted jokily. She ran over to them, throwing her arms around her son and hugging him until he had run out of air.
She smiled. "I'm so glad you're home, Troy. And tomorrow, you will both be married. Oh! It's too exciting."
Troy wrapped his arm around Gabriella's waist again. "It is, Mum.' He looked down at Gabriella adoringly. 'Honey, shall we…"
She nodded. "We'd better. They are all desperate to see you."
He chuckled, before letting Gabriella lead the way into the rehearsal dinner, their hands clutched together, with no sign of letting go.
The next half hour was dedicated to Troy. Everyone wanted to meet, greet and congratulate him on finding Gabriella. All the while his faithful fiancé stayed by his side, kissing his cheek at the appropriate moments, alighting awws from their company. It was nice for them to be together with all their friends again. Troy caught up with Sharpay and Zeke - who had been in LA with him, as well as Catherine and Thomas. They were so blissfully in love, and it was clear to see.
Eventually they were taken through to a slightly large hall, where they were to sit to pretend to have their dinner. The table was large, and round, so everyone could talk to everyone else. The whole room was filled with those circular table, fitting 200 people into the room. Troy and Gabriella sat at the top table, with their parents and close friends. Throughout the evening, they shared the odd loving glance.
The atmosphere was completely happy. Troy looked around, seeing everyone he loved surrounding him, and then glanced at Gabriella, glowing with the love he felt for her. He bent down, ignoring the fact that many eyes were on the pair, and pressed a kiss right behind her ear. He heard her breath intake.
"Do you know how much I love you, Brie?"
She nodded, flushed. "Of course I do."
He pressed another kiss, further down on her neck. "I just thought I'd tell you again. It'd give us something to do."
She smacked his cheek lightly, making the people who were watching laugh. She blushed, before whispering in her ear. "I won't need to fill up your agenda, darling. The speeches are being rehearsed too. I look forward to the one your Dad's giving."
Troy pouted and groaned, hanging his head. "That's the one I want to miss."
She kissed his lips, taking the pout right away. "No can do, my love. He's on next."
And true to her word, Jack did stand up and deliver his speech. Troy turned out to be pleasantly surprised. Instead of the long, tiring stories which were supposed to be funny, his father gave nothing but sincere words of love for his son and gratitude to Gabriella for making his sons life complete. Troy felt tears prick his eyes at his fathers words, and thanked him later for what he had done.
There was other speeches also. One from Gabriella's mother, which got a little tearful when it turned to the subjects for her own father and grandfather. Troy could help but notice that she subconsciously slipped off her heels for a second, running one foot over the other, touching the Star of David which was inked there. Troy kissed her shoulder gently as a small amount of tears trailed down her cheeks at her mothers words.
However, they were soon wiped away when Catherine and Sharpay got up and did a speech together. It was filled of funny memories, both from Gabriella's childhood and from when Troy and Gabriella met. Gabriella was glad she had made such friends, for they meant the word to her now.
Suddenly, after the speeches were over, someone tapped Gabriella on the shoulder.
She turned around to see a servant looking at her. "Excuse me, Miss Montez, but there is someone outside waiting to speak to you."
She smiled, "That's fine. Send them in."
The servant shook his head apologetically. "I'm sorry. The person said they would not venture inside. They would like to speak to you outside this room."
Her eyebrows quirked in confusion, but she shrugged. "Okay then…"
She made to stand up, before Troy touched her arm protectively. He didn't like the sound of this person. "Honey, do you want me to come with you?" He looked up at her, worry in his eyes.
She laughed, smiling before kissing his nose. "No, silly. I'll be fine. I'll be back before you know it, seriously."
She walked around the tables, talking to people as she passed. She reached the door, turning to see Troy's eyes watching her intently, the worry she'd seen still evident. She blew him a kis before opening the door and closing it behind her.
To find no-one there.
Whoever it had been must have chickened out on her.
She shrugge3d, about to turn back and enter the hall once again, but her eyes fell onto a small envelope, with her name written out in block capitals, hiding the hand writing. She reached down, picking it up, and taking the piece of card out of the envelope.
Are you sure you want to do this? was written.
She looked around suspiciously, still finding no-one there.
"Of course I do." She whispered for her own knowledge.
And then she ripped up the piece of paper, letting it fall out of her hands before she opened the door and entered once again, with no intention of telling Troy anything about the note.
A/N; Oooooh. I wonder what that was about? Can anyone guess who it was from?
Haha, I like ending on semi cliff-hangers. Again, I'm sorry for the slight delay. I was off school ill for some of this week, and it gave me time to write. But when I sat down, I just… couldn't But it's finally here. Part three of six is complete.
I was slightly disappointed at the lack of reviews for last chapter.
So, you have to get us nearer 60 for the next chapter!
-xlovestory (remember the new pen-name!)