Chapter 2 – Basketball & Friends

"I passed!" I looked up as Liam came in the front door with a big grin on his face. "Good job!" I said, I hugged him as he showed me his new drivers licenses, I gave him a big smile as Troy came in behind him, his hat turned backwards with a pair of khakis and a white t-shirt.

"Mhm, he passed alright," Liam shot Troy a look as Troy laughed, "Okay, so I barely passed but just because I couldn't parallel park and I didn't stop where I could see the line wasn't my fault,"

"Hey, at least he didn't run through a stop light or a stop sign," I mentioned with a shrug, Troy nodded, "Very true," he went into the kitchen to grab a bottle of water. Liam looked between the two of us, "Can I take my truck out?" Troy glanced at me as I saw what time it was. "Be back in ten minutes," I responded, he grinned as he grabbed his car keys.

I felt my stomach twist as he got into the car by himself. "Alright, maybe not," I whispered, Troy laughed as he sat across my lap, "No, no," he shook his head, "Just stay right here, it's the middle of the afternoon and he has ten minutes. He is going to be fine." I threw my head back against the couch as Troy pressed his warm lips over mine. "Relax," he said, I shook my head as Troy laughed, "You are a pain in my ass, have I told you that before?" I nodded, "A couple of times really,"

Troy laughed as he kissed me again. "So tell me, how is Emma?"

"I'm glad she tried to make it through school but if she can't keep her eyes open long enough, she might as well sleep at home and catch up when she is feeling better. I think it's just a small virus. She should be fine."

Troy smiled as he rubbed my shoulders again, "I never asked how that bath went last night,"

"Wonderful," I muttered, "I mean flat out wonderful, I loved it, thank you," Troy smiled as he kissed my temple, "Good,"

"Tomorrow you are going out with the girls," he told me as he played with the end of my pony tail, "Am I now?"

"Mhm, you are,"

I smiled, "Thanks,"

"Of course."

Troy was quiet for a moment and I looked at him, "What is it?" his eyes moved over towards mine, "What do you mean?"

"You are thinking about something and you don't know how to tell me," Troy turned his head to look at me, "I think I have been married to you way to long," I felt a smile creep over my cheeks, "And?"

He sighed before getting up to sit next to me; he dragged me over into his lap. "The Lakers want me to be a broadcaster for them," my eyes went wide, "Oh,"

"Yea, oh," he sighed, "I don't know what to tell them because I mean it's an amazing job and something that I would love to do but that means I am back on the road all the time and I don't think I'm ready to give this up yet," Troy mentioned, I sighed as I looked at him, "Troy, if it's something you want to do, then go and do it. We aren't going to hold you back from your dreams, we have managed every single season,"

"And I have missed most of my kids growing up," he fried back, "It's February, when do you have to tell them yes?" I asked, Troy shrugged, "Probably a couple of days," I closed my eyes, "There is nothing else you could do for them?"

Troy shrugged, "I could scout but I don't know if that have a spot for that,"

"Ask them, tell them you still want to be apart of the Lakers but right now, the broadcasting thing isn't working. I mean could you not just scout around here in this area and maybe a little bit of Arizona, Texas, Colorado, I mean like that? Places where you will only be gone for a couple of days and then back."

"That means I will miss a lot of Liam's basketball," I shrugged my shoulders, "Troy, Liam knows you will go above and beyond to attend his things. I know you will work you schedule around it, call and ask them, maybe in ten or twelve years, you can go to broadcasting," Troy sighed, "Maybe," he said with a smile, "I love you,"

"I love you too but do what you want, I mean, I do miss you being a Laker. I loved saying my husband was a Laker," I winked and Troy laughed, his arms circling my waist, "I love you," I smiled as I played with his shirt when the front door opened.

"Freedom! I love it!"

Troy chuckled as Liam came into the living room, "Thanks mom and dad! I love my truck!"

"Sure thing Liam," Liam went upstairs as I glanced at Troy, "We have to get ready for the rest of them to come home," Troy breathed out a sigh, "Yea, we do,"

I grinned as I stood up, "Come on,"

Backing the car out of the driveway, I drove the miles to Zeke's as that's where we were all meeting for lunch and maybe a little shopping later. Pulling in, I already spotted Taylor's car and Sharpay was probably here doing something.

Grabbing my Coach bag, I pushed my sunglasses off my face and I walked into the building. The cool air surrounding me, I breathed in as the hostess smiled, "They are that way Mrs. Bolton," I smiled, "Thank you,"

Walking through, I paused at a few tables back, Taylor and Sharpay drinking wine already as they were grinning. I walked forward as I sat down, "What's all of the grinning about?" Sharpay laughed, "We were talking about Chad and Alexa having the talk," I let my eyes spread, "Please tell me Troy doesn't know about this because Emma will be horrified."

"I think Chad is horrified. I am pretty sure he will not be discussing it with anybody." Taylor said with a laugh, a glass of wine was set in front of me as I took a bitter sip. "Troy was nervous with Brett and Chase over, I had to tell him that it's okay, she has grown up with those boys."

"Yea, Chad," Taylor shook her head, "I'm pretty sure Alexa starting crying and then Chad had no clue what to do next." Taylor shook her head, "Oh Chad," I said as I scanned the menu, "What's new?" I asked Sharpay, she sighed, "The summer salad is really good," I nodded, "Sounds good,"

The waiter came over, "What could I get for you Mrs. Baylor?" Sharpay flickered over them menu, "A spinach salad would be perfect."

"Okay, Mrs. Bolton?"

"A summer salad please,"

"Make that two," Taylor said with a smile, "Alright, they will be out shortly,"

"So Lava Springs is going to be opening in April," I laughed quietly, "Sharpay, do you still have a thing for that place?"

"Yes, my parents still own it," I smiled as I took another drink of my wine. "I might get the kids involved, I don't know," I looked at Sharpay, "Does Zeke have any openings here? I do have a sixteen year old who needs a j-o-b." I told her, "Uhm, I'm not sure but I can check with him later tonight."

"Thanks, if not, I will send him to Lava Springs," Sharpay laughed, "That was one of the best and worst summers ever,"

"The summer between our sophomore and junior year, yea, it was." Sharpay gave a faint smile, "I was still out to get Troy at that point," I shrugged, "He was all mine and everybody knew that,"

Taylor and Sharpay laughed as our food was brought to us, as it seemed to be a slow Tuesday. "Troy got an offer to be the Lakers broadcaster," I mentioned carefully as I moved the stuff around in my salad, my stomach turning, "what?" Taylor asked looking at me, "Is he going to take it?" I shrugged my shoulders, "He wants to but he doesn't want to be on the road again."

"I could understand that but that's an amazing job."

"I know, I don't think I'm ready to let go of him yet. I told him to do what he wants I just hope he does the right thing. Not that there is, I'm just, I'm ready for him to be home all the time."

"I understand sweetie but that boy is a Laker through and through," I nodded my head as I brushed my fingers through my hair, "I know," I took a bite of my salad and it was good like Sharpay had mentioned.

"Troy probably is going to be fine with whatever he does, he is just looking for something to fill the void in his life right now."

"I know he is and it's hard,"

"It is,"

"Then I have Liam who is driving everywhere, I just," I rubbed my forehead letting my fork fall to the plate. "I'm a nervous wreck all day, I mean I make him text me when he leaves and arrives at a place, I'm being over protected but I can't,"

"Gabi, love," Taylor looked at me with an amused smile, "Are you going to be okay?"

I laughed, "No! I'm a mess!"

"I can see this!"

We all started to laugh as I shook my head, "It's been crazy, I'm telling you. I don't even know how Liam can go from my little guy to being sixteen."

"Shit, look at Bentley and Alexa and Emma, I mean the first four are growing up on us! What are we going to do?" Taylor rested her hand on my shoulder, "Relax, breath, you have always been the worried hen but that means they are growing up on us Gabs, they are going to be okay."

"But they aren't supposed to leave me,"

"They aren't going to leave you, you have a two year old Gabs, you have a long way to go and by then, Liam will be having kids probably. It's going to be okay," I took a deep breath to relax myself. "Okay, I keep having these panic attacks lately and I don't know why,"

"You are a mom who is overly stressed. Doesn't Liam have a game tonight?"

"Mhm," I said with a nod of my head, "He does,"

"I'll probably drag the kids there."

"How is Alexa adjusting?" I asked Taylor, "Good! I think she is happy to be back with Emma,"

"Too bad Emma had to miss most of yesterday, she crawled into my bed and just didn't feel good." I sighed, "She went back to school this morning and I haven't gotten that call to pick her up yet."

"That's probably good. She is determined,"

"Always," I said softly, "Bentley is so happy that Liam can drive now, that means Bentley has a person to give him a ride everywhere." I laughed, "If he becomes a pain in your ass, I will be more than happy to take my son's car keys away from him."

"Oh Gabi, it's fine,"

We all laughed as we chatted over some stuff going on at the school and we all paid our portions, we then got up to go do a little shopping.

"I think I got my money's worth today," I said laughing, "I liked that outfit but good Lord," Sharpay busted out into laughter again, "That sales women, she was such a bitch! I wouldn't want to buy anything their either!"

"Yea, no, you don't get to be flat out rude to me," I shook my head as I put my bags into my car, Sharpay and Taylor doing the same thing. "Maybe we can go catch a movie some time this week together?" Sharpay suggested as she shielded her eyes from the bright sun. "Maybe," I concluded, "Text me a date and I'll give you my kids schedules for the day,"

Taylor laughed, "That's your fault for having five kids,"

I groaned, "Don't remind me. It's Troy's fault,"

Taylor and Sharpay both laughed, "Uh huh,"

"Do you see how attractive he is?" I questioned, "He is fucking hot," Taylor and Sharpay doubled over in laughter, as I couldn't contain my laughter either. "I missed us all together," I said as we all did a group hug, "I missed us too," Taylor said, "Friend dinner this week?" I then suggested, "It's been a while,"

Taylor's eyes grew, "Yes! How about Friday night?" I pulled out my phone and scrolled through my calendar, "I think we can do that, the only thing that is going on is Liam's basketball practice."

"Good!"

"I'll host," I said, "Zeke brings dessert," I mentioned, Sharpay rolled her eyes, "We always bring dessert," I eyed her, "Why would we want to bring dessert when Zeke's is the best?"

Sharpay rolled her eyes, "Whatever," I giggled, "I'll see you girls Friday then! Seven sharp!"

"Sounds good!" I got into my car and I slammed the door shut, I started my car, as I looked at my phone to see Troy had texted me. The house was empty; I shook my head, as Lo must have gone to Lucile's house.

I texted him that I would be back in thirty minutes, it was just a little after one and the kids wouldn't be home until at least three thirty. Liam wasn't due home until late due to his game tonight.

I drove the short distance as I parked and turned my car off. I stared at all of the plots, as it had been too many years without my dad.

The day in June was always hard but it was getting better with each kid that I have. I smiled as I got out of the car and traced my steps to his grave. The flowers from just a few days ago were here as I sat down right in front.

"Hi daddy," my fingers traced the loop of his name, "How are you?" I asked softly, "I know, twice in one week, it's been a hell of a week." I told him, "Liam turned sixteen and I'm a nervous wreck, can you please watch out for him daddy? I don't want my baby to get hurt out there on the roads." I said softly, "I love you dad," I rested against the grave, as I didn't want to get up quite yet.

Twenty years without my dad.

It seemed so much longer as I woke up some nights just thinking about him. I smile crossed my face as I stood up, "I'll be back soon daddy,"

Walking away, I went to get into the car as I took in a small breath. Walking away was always the worst.

"I'm home," I called, Troy came out of the kitchen and he smiled, "Hi beautiful," I blushed as he came over as he swept his lips over mine, I smiled as I wrapped my arms around his neck, "I missed you," he whispered against my lips, "What? I was gone for a couple of hours," I protested, Troy smiled, "I know," he pressed my back against a wall as our lips found each other easily.

The room grew hot as my lips trailed over his jaw and down his neck. He moaned as I tugged on his earlobe. He struggled as he went up one flight of stairs, our lips keeping us from going up the next flight as our lips moved in a hurry.

My fingers swept through his hair as his tongue slide over my lips and I moaned into the kiss, "Come on," I hurried, Troy laughed as he took us up another flight of stairs and into our bedroom. He kicked the door shut with his foot as he gently laid me on my back into the bed.

His lips never disconnecting as he hovered over top of me, my fingers slid up his shirt and I helped him lose his shirt.

My fingers traced the small circle tattoo he just got a couple of months ago, our kids names in a complete circle. I smiled as his lips sucked on my collarbone, he pulled my shirt over my head and his finger unclasped my bra as we sheared it all to the floor.

His fingers trailed over my skin as he bumped across my breast, as they were tender. I bit my lip to keep from saying anything as he worked my jeans off my hips, I breathed heavily as his body moved over top of my mine, I grabbed him to pull him back into a kiss as he locked our fingers together for a moment, I breathed as he pressed himself between my thighs and I stuttered a groan.

I moved my hands to slide his basketball shorts off his waist and I grabbed his underwear with it too. He pulled my underwear free of my body as he let his fingers crawl over my inner thigh.

I gasped in surprise as he chuckled, "You always do that," he whispered, his breath hot over my face. I let my head drop back as I tried to stop the groan building in my chest, Troy took the invitation to kiss on my neck as he then slowly entered me without me barely noticing.

I bit on my lip and Troy kissed me as our hands locked together, I kissed him as I then kissed his collar bone, Troy hovered over me as his muscles twitched in his arms showing strength as he held himself over me, the deep rhythm was needed as I moaned, "Troy," I gasped, he kissed me again as the motions slowed as sudden bliss took over.

A tired smile spread over my lips as Troy rolled to lie next to me, I laid my head on his shoulder as he kissed my forehead. Our breathing labored and long as we tried to catch our breath. "You seem to always amaze me," Troy said quietly, I smiled, "I'm glad," he gave me a smile and I locked our fingers together.

"I think we need to empty our house more often," Troy spoke as he left his lips against my cheek, "I think I can agree with that," Troy laughed and he gave me that smile as I tucked into him, taking in our few more minutes of quiet.

"Allison," she caught up, as we were getting ready to enter East High for Liam's game tonight. Jack was still the head Coach and now he had his grandson on his team like his son, Varsity his freshman year and he deserved it too. He played well out there and nobody doubted Jack a game later.

He was a start sophomore now as he was warming up, the JV game just ending. Wes was playing a game on his iPod and we found a section of empty bleachers. We settled into the belchers and Troy and I both did a mental head count.

Emma, Wes, Allison, Lo, they were all here as I settled back. Troy glanced up at the clock as they still had ten minutes of warm-up, "Em, can you watch your siblings for a minute? Your mom and I will be back in time for tip-off,"

"Okay," I stood unknowing as I followed Troy, "Come on," he grasped my hand and he took me and I suddenly knew where we were going. "It's still here?" I asked with a laugh, "Yea, I came here the other day with Lo and asked my dad about it,"

We went up the flight up steps as suddenly I was back in high school. I smiled as Troy wrapped his arms around my waist, "I love this place," I whispered, Troy smiled, "I know, I love it too. So many memories," Troy grinned, "This is where I asked you to prom and you taught me how to waltz," I giggled, "Yea, my dad taught me how to waltz,"

Troy flashed his blue eyes towards me as we both took a deep breath of our surrounding, the flowers blooming, the colorful as Troy rested his chin against my head. "Are you ready to go back and watch our son kick ass?"

"Duh," I said, Troy smiled as he gripped my hand, and we left the rooftop garden with promises to come back as we only had a short amount of time and many children under watch from the oldest sibling.

Troy guided our way through the people and we stopped at the section. We climbed back in as Troy still held my hand, even after Lauren crawled into his lap. I gave a faint smile as my stomach twisted nervously, I was always nervous before Liam's games. Scared that he was going to get hurt or that he would play bad but he was normally great. Troy was also great with him about basketball.

Wasn't pushy or rude but he calmly and showed him about the small mistakes, Liam usually took the comments well and if he didn't want to hear them, he would tell Troy. Troy would back off and that was that. It was hard to play a sport where your dad ruled in for a long time and I could understand that from his point.

Troy and I had to talk about how to approach the situation. A smile flickered over my face as Liam took his spot, at point guard, to control the game. Liam was all control and I loved it, he had the same passion as Troy did out there and it made me feel good about something.

Jack intensely coached from the side lines calling plays to Liam who always did as told, he felt like he had a lot to prove being Troy's son and Jack grandchild. Troy always told them to just go out there and play for fun, not for him or his grandpa. Just go play for him.

I liked how Troy told him that because I needed to make sure Liam knew that.

During the first half, East High took major control of the game. My nerves letting go as they had a fifteen-point lead, moving my feet, Lauren rubbed her eyes and she yawned. "You tired baby girl?" she nodded as we had all had dinner before the game; Liam had already planned on grabbing dinner with teammates because it's what they do now.

"Tired," she complained pressing her face into me, "I'm sorry sweetie, you can go to bed when we get home in a little bit okay?"

"Okay,"

She curled into me, her head resting on my chest as I winced, as they were sore. Why were they sore? I kissed her forehead and I knew she falling asleep in my arms. "Isn't she adorable," Lucille smiled as she sat down next to us. "She is pretty tired. I guess she had a long day with her favorite grandmother." Lucille smiled as Troy smiled at his mom.

"Good, she will sleep all through the night," Troy said with a smile, "That's a bonus," I nodded with a laugh, "Yea, it honestly is."

During halftime, the cheerleaders preformed and were extra preppy. Emma was talking to one of her friends; Wes was with one of his while Allison was sitting in Troy's lap. I sighed softly and Troy rubbed my lower back.

"I miss watching you play," I murmured as I rested my head on his shoulder, "I miss it too but I love watching Liam play," I nodded in agreement as the next two quarters were easy to watch as the other team fell apart. The Wildcats were all excited as the slapped hands and they were all laughing. "Emma! Wes!" I called, "Let's go!"

Liam waved at us as he came jogging over, "I'm coming home right after, I have to finish my history project," I flashed my eyes towards him, a smile beaming on my face, "Alright, do you want us to make you anything for dinner?"

"A PBJ?"

"I got it," Troy declared, I rolled my eyes and he laughed, "We will see you at home okay?"

"Can I ride home with Liam?" Emma asked, Troy and I shared a glance, "I am coming straight home, I just have to change," Troy shrugged and then looked at me, "I don't care but you better be coming straight home!"

"Thanks mom!"

I shook my head as Troy and I guided the younger ones to the car. Troy lifted Allison in and buckled her seat belt, Wes climbed into the back by himself, as Lo was asleep against my shoulder. "Somebody is out cold," Troy said with a laugh, "She said she was tired," I eased her into her car seat and I buckled her in.

"Can we get ice cream?" Wes asked, "Not tonight," Troy declared without having to give me a second glance, "Maybe next time," Wes pouted and Troy reached for my hand as I smiled at him.

The drive home was quiet as most of the kids were tired, "Wes and Alli, you guys both need to take showers okay?"

"Okay,"

Troy pulled into the garage and everybody climbed out. Troy grabbed Lo who was passed out still, "I'll take care of her,"

"Thanks, ill make sure the two have PJ's and I'll start on stuff for tomorrow,"

"Alright,"

"Oh I forgot Danforth's and Baylor's are coming over for dinner at seven on Friday night."

"Sounds good," Once entering the house, we went separate directions, controlling chaos as Emma and Liam arrived right on schedule. Liam went to the showers and Emma sat in the kitchen talking to me.

"Mhm,"

"Oh the eighth grade dance is coming up," she mentioned casually, "Is it?"

"At the end of April but everything is starting to be prepared now," she added, "I'm excited, it's my first real school dance." I gave her a smile, as I never attended school here in the eighth grade. "So can we go dress shopping soon? Before all of the good dresses are gone."

"Maybe next week or the week after, is Alexa going?" I asked, she nodded her head, "Yea, she is. I don't know with who," I paused, "You are going with somebody?" I asked, she shook her head again, "Nobody has asked me. I want somebody too though,"

"It's okay to go with friends, I sometimes had more fun at dances with my friends than with a guy."

"Mom, you had dad," I smiled, "I mean before that, once your dad and I were together, we were best friends so it basically counts," I told her, she laughed, "I love hearing how you and dad met, I think it's magical,"

"Everything about your dad is magical," she smiled and I finished preparing all the fruit and things that could be prepared for lunches tomorrow. "Everybody is coming over Friday night for dinner."

"Alexa included?" she asked me, "Duh," she giggled, "Good!"

I reached for bread and the peanut butter with strawberry jam for Liam. I made him a quick sandwich and put a small bag of chips next to them, "Aw, thanks mama," he kissed my cheek and I smiled, "You're welcome," he sat down next to Emma and I gave him a glass of milk to drink.

"Mommy!" Allison came racing towards me, her hair wet and her pajamas sticking to her body, "yea?" I asked her, "Can you braid my hair before bed?" I smiled, "Sure thing,"

"I can Alli," Emma offered, Allison's eyes grew, "Will you Em?" Emma nodded as she climbed down and off her stool. "Thanks Em!"

"Sure thing mom,"

They left the kitchen and I looked at Liam, "I'm proud of you tonight," I mentioned, he looked up, "Why?"

"You made the right choice by coming home and doing your history project instead of going out with friends. Just for that I'll lift your grounding as long as that grade comes up soon." Liam smiled, "Thanks mom,"

"No, thank you, I was really proud of you." Liam shrugged, "I was tired anyways,"

"Okay," I couldn't fight the smile as I went to finish the dishes as Troy's arm's slid around my waist, "There you are," he kissed the back of my neck, "Dad, come on, I'm trying to eat." Troy laughed as he looked over my shoulder, "Liam, close your eyes then," Liam shook his head, "You two, I have never seen any of my friends parents as touchy as you two," I couldn't help but laugh, "Good, let's keep it that way!"

Liam laughed as Troy let go and went over to lean against the counter. "You played well tonight,"

"Thanks, I had fun,"

"That's the most important part," Troy reminded him, "I got it dad,"

Troy smiled as he flipped his iPhone in his hand, "Liam, I have a question for you," my eyes shot to Troy and then to Liam, "Yea?"

"What do you think of me being the Lakers broadcaster?" Liam looked at Troy, "I guess that would be cool," he said, I frowned as I knew Liam didn't like it, "I don't know, I was offered the job and I have to give them an answer tomorrow."

"Oh," Liam finished eating and he slid his plate slowly into the sink of dishes I was washing. I eyed him as he gave me a smile, I nudged my head and he smiled bigger, "Thanks mom,"

"Go,"

Troy watched him, "I didn't expect that reaction out of him…" Troy said, "He doesn't want you to do it."

"I know, I just, I don't know what to do Brie," he pressed his fingers over his face as he looked at me, "I think Liam loves having you around." Troy nodded, "I won't do it then,"

"Troy," he looked at me, I shook my head, "Never mind,"

"What?" he asked, "nothing, it's nothing," I told him as I finished the dishes.

"Okay," he said with a look of doubt, "Troy, it's fine,"

"Brie," he said, "Something is bothering you,"

"Maybe I don't want you to go either," I finally said, my eyes having trouble meeting his. When I finally looked at him, an amused smile flickered over his features, "Don't give me that look!"

"Brie, all you had to do was say something," he whispered, he came over and he hopped onto the counter, pulling me between his legs. "It's not the end of the world, I'll ask them if there is an scouting positions and then we can go from there okay?"

I smiled as he kissed me, "I miss you too much to be flying all over the country again, plus, I'll be forty in a year," I shushed him, "Let's not speak of these words okay?" Troy laughed, "I'll be it first,"

"So, I don't care, that means I'm right after you," Troy shook his head laughing, "I love you,"

"I love you too," he kissed me softly and I sighed, "I guess I better go do my rounds,"

"I'll meet you in the bedroom," he said with a wink, I smiled and he kissed my forehead.

Checking on Wes first, I looked into his room to see he was making sure everything was ready for tomorrow. "Are you ready for bed?" I asked, I picked up his dirty laundry and put it into his basket sitting next to the door. "Mhm,"

I nodded as he took a big breath and found his book, "I'm just going to read a couple of chapters and then go to bed,"

"Okay," I said with a nod, "Don't stay up too late okay?"

"Okay,"

I went into Liam's room but he was busy working on his project, "Don't stay up too late please,"

"Got it mom,"

"I love you both,"

"I love you too," they both responded as I went up to the girls level. I peeked in on Lauren. She was sleeping, curled up with her blanket. I kissed her forehead and told her goodnight. I shut the door and then went into Allison's room. "Goodnight, I love you," I told her as I kissed her forehead, she was already curled in bed but was reading a book. "I love you too mommy,"

I brushed her hair away, I shut her door and Emma was sitting up working on some sort of homework. "What are you working on?"

"Math," she responded with a sour face, "I don't understand," I sat next to her, "Do you need any help?" she bit her lip as she looked at the problems again, "No, I'll just ask my teacher tomorrow in first hour. It will be okay." I studied her, "Alright," I said with a sigh, I kissed her forehead, "Don't stay up much longer, I love you,"

"I love you too,"

I shut her door and I went up to my room, I walked in and flipped my shirt off, I glanced at my breasts and studied them both. I shook my head as I slipped on one of Troy's t-shirts. Sliding my jeans off, I pulled on a pair of boxer shorts.

Walking into the bathroom, I brushed my teeth and pulled my hair down to brush through it. I washed my face and then I shut off the lights and I looked at Troy who was looking at his phone.

"Hey there," he said, I crawled into bed next to him as his arm wrapped me towards him, "How are you beautiful?"

"I'm good and you?"

"I'm good too,"

"Good night Troy,"

"Night Brie,"

Glancing at the number in front of me, I sighed, picked up my cell phone and I called the number. I waited until it came back, "Hi, how may I help you?" I cleared my throat softly, "Hi, I need to schedule a mammogram," I said, my voice almost coming out in a squeak.

"For any reason?"

"I'm thirty eight and have never gotten checked, I figured it was about time." The lady on the other end nodded, "I have a twelve thirty on Monday," I grimaced, "Okay," I said softly, "I'll take that,"

"Perfect, do you know our location?" I heard Troy coming in as I closed the screen. I wrote twelve thirty down, "Uhm, I think so,"

"I can email you directions or they are on our website," Troy's fingers smoothed over my shoulders, "I can just look at the website,"

"Okay! We will see you then!"

"Thanks," I set the phone down as I turned my chair to face Troy, "May I help you?" he eyed me, "What was that about?"

"Just seeing if a store had this shirt I wanted when I went out with Sharpay and Taylor. They said to call back after a couple of days." Troy nodded, "Alright then," he sighed, "What do you want to make for dinner tomorrow?" Troy asked, "Is today already Thursday?"

Troy nodded his head, "It indeed is pretty lady,"

"Oh," I squeezed my eyes shut to process it all for a moment. "Uhm," I opened my eyes and then looked at him, "You can decide," Troy turned his head, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," I said standing up, "I'm think I am going to just go lay down though,"

"Okay," Troy pressed his lips in a line as he went out of the room first. "I was going to take Lo to the store with me. I was think like Spaghetti or something like that, make lot of it pretty cheap."

"I don't care Troy, if that's what you want, I'll eat it,"

"I know you'll eat it but I didn't know if you were craving something,"

"Nope," I responded, his eyes circled mine, "I'm going to go unload the dishwasher and then take a nap."

"Okay,"

I wrapped my arms around his waist and rested my head against his chest. "I'm fine, I just need to get some rest."

"If you say so,"

I smiled as I pulled him down to kiss me, "I say so,"

Troy smiled and he then called for Lo, I emptied the dishwasher from the breakfast dishes. I then waited for Troy to disappear as I went down to clear the computer history and to close out the space. I grabbed the sticky note with the name and I went upstairs, I hid it in the book I was reading and I then lay down on the bed.

I was tired but my mind was too full to even begin to sleep.

Taylor laughed as she took a sip of the wine. I followed as the kids were all running around, Liam and Bentley were playing video games, Alexa, Emma, and Carissa were outside talking. Wes and Austin were playing basketball with Troy, Chad, and Zeke. Allison, Matt, and Brooklyn were all playing in the playroom as Lauren kept close to me, as she didn't have anybody around her age.

Sharpay shook her head, "I am so happy we decided to do this, I miss when our families get together," I nodded, "I miss it too," I stirred the sauce that Troy had prepared earlier. The salad was complete and the bread was cooking in the oven as that's what we were waiting on.

"I brought ice cream and cookies for dessert," Sharpay said with a sigh, "Something easy as this week has been crazy,"

"It has been a very crazy week," I concluded, "Liam has basketball practice tomorrow morning and Emma has soccer game in the afternoon, Wes is trying out for some baseball team he wants to play on," I shook my head, "It's going to be a crazy weekend,"

"Sounds like it," Taylor gave a blow of air, "Taylor, I am supposed to ask if Alexa wants to go dress shopping with us maybe next weekend," Taylor smiled, "Probably," Sharpay pouted, "I wish Carissa was old enough to go do those things!"

"Next year Shar, don't grow them up too fast." Sharpay rolled her eyes; "You get to do homecoming next year,"

"Yikes, I will have another freshman," I shook my head, "Let Carissa stay as young as she would like," I commended, the oven buzzed as the bread was done. I went over to take it out and I placed it on the stove. I cut the bread and placed it into a big bowl as I then called everybody from outside in. A race to the door from all of the boys made me laugh, Liam and Bentley came running at the sound of food and then the girls.

Everybody was fighting for a spot in line as Taylor helped Matt with a plate, settling him in. I had already made Lo a plate as I settled her into her high chair. She ate with her fork as the other kids could do their own plates.

I filled up the wine glasses and got out three beers for the boys. Milk was placed out and so were a few other things to drink.

Everybody went to their normal spots as us adults went last in the line to grab our food. I smiled and was last, "Smells good Gabs!"

"Thanks!"

"Hey, I prepared the sauce!"

"So? I made the rest,"

Everybody laughed as I settled into my chair; I took a sip of the wine, as conversations were a buzz everywhere. "Troy, I heard you got," Troy coughed on his water and Chad stopped his sentence, "Oh," he laughed as Taylor swatted his shoulder, the kids all turned their attention to their dad.

"It was nothing," Troy responded, "Just a job offer that I wasn't ready to take,"

"What job?" Emma asked, Troy's eyes found Emma's and he sighed, "It's nothing, I promise, it was just going to drag me around the country and I wasn't ready to do that again, simple as that."

"So you turned it down," Liam asked, "Why does Liam know and I don't?" Emma asked, "Because I'm the oldest, that's why," Liam taunted, "Liam," I said he shrugged as he went back to his food, "Em's I promise, it's nothing,"

"If it's nothing then you'll tell me,"

Troy sighed, "They offered me a spot on the broadcasting crew. That's all," he said softly, "It's okay though, I'm not taking the job offer."

Most of everybody was quiet after that, forks hitting the plate. "On the other hand, I did ask for a different spot," my eyes gazed over to his and he smiled, "I am now a scout of my surrounding area, they will send kids for me to go look at, an hour to an hour and half drive away from here is my limit. I won't be gone nearly as long and only a few trips to LA."

"But you'll still be gone?" Liam asked, "Not that often, mostly big tournaments in the area and closer to drafting."

"Good," Liam smiled, "That's great Troy!" Chad and Zeke both congratulated him, "It's going to keep money moving and it's easy to do from home."

The table rejoiced in conversation again and people were finishing their first plates, Bentley and Liam both went in for seconds along with Troy, Chad, and Zeke. I shoved my plate away as Lo began to play in her food.

"Lauren," I said, she looked up at me with a sly grin, she then knocked her food onto the ground. I tossed my head back, "Lo, come on sweetie," I went to pick up the plate as Taylor handed me a napkin, "Thanks,"

I wiped up the mess, I then got Lauren down to wash her hands. Most of the kids scattered, once she was cleaned up, I let her sit on my lap and I rubbed her leg, she played with a plastic spoon.

"Yea, so, I haven't told you this yet but I have to make a quick flight out to LA to sign a few papers and to get some training done but then I am home until a few weeks before the draft."

"When do you leave?" I asked him, "Sunday morning and I should be back Wednesday afternoon," I sighed, "Okay,"

"Are you going to need any help during those few days?" Chad asked, Taylor almost looked surprised but I had to remember that Chad looked at me as a sister. He looked as my kids as his own kids.

"I think I will be okay with Liam driving now. It shouldn't be that bad." I said, "If I need anything though, I will call."

"Sounds good,"

The conversation went into detail about Troy's new job in the Laker organization. I got up as us girls started to do the dishes. We talked and finished our glasses of wine, "Do you approve of this job?"

"More than the other, I kind of suggested this one to him."

"That's good, I think he needed to stay there in the organization, it's in his blood." I nodded, "It honestly is, I want him to be happy and that's going to make him happy. I'm okay with it,"

"Good, I like seeing you two so happy." I smiled, "I love him and I love that he respected Liam and my opinion on the matter. Liam wasn't that thrilled and I wasn't thrilled. He took it in to consideration and he made a good choice. I love that about him, he never or never has put himself first. Always us."

Taylor laughed, "That's what I love about him."

Taylor and Sharpay helped me load the dishwasher with all of the dirty plates as the lights were turning on outside, "Can we get in the pool?"

"No!" I yelled back, "Not tonight,"

"Mom!"

"Sorry,"

"I love how they stop, Carissa usually persists,"

"I wonder where she learned that from," I said giving a pointed look towards Sharpay, She narrowed her eyes at me, "Funny Bolton," I smiled, "It is,"

Taylor laughed, "Still, my kids do it, yours just stop,"

"I guess they don't like us yelling, I don't know, they just don't. I mean they do sometimes but not a lot."

"That's because you and Troy are the best parents we have ever seen," I shrugged, "I think you guys are the best but okay,"

'No," Taylor and Sharpay said to each other. I rocked my head back, "Whatever," they laughed as we drug out the desserts. We made everybody a bowl and put a spoon in each one while we called him or her for dessert.

They came running in putting chocolate syrup on some, others caramel, some just left with plain. "Who wants to watch a movie?" Chad's voice asked, "I guess we are having a movie night too," I said with a laugh, "Let's do it,"

After deciding to watch We Bought a Zoo together, most of everybody but the older kids fell asleep on the floor. Troy had me draped in his lap; we had put Lo into bed a while ago as the credits moved over the screen.

Chad and Taylor stood up as Alexa stood up next to Emma, "I'm going to bed,"

"Night Em's," Troy said, my eyes rested as my head lay against Troy's chest. "I'm going to take her upstairs first," Troy said, his arms sliding underneath my knees and my head staying against his chest.

"I'm awake, I'll help with the moving," Troy questioned me for a minute as he released his hold on me; I smiled as he kissed my temple. "Alright," I got up as Chad and Taylor were grabbing Austin and Matt.

I went over to Allison as she was curled against Brooklyn, "I'll get mine and you get yours," Zeke said with a laugh, I laughed along with him as I gently woke up Allison, "Come on sweetie," she shook her head and Zeke laughed, "Alli, come on," I picked her up gently and she burst into tears. "Hey, it's okay," I rubbed her back as Troy was guiding Wes to his room with Liam right behind him.

I rubbed my hand over Allison's back as I took her upstairs. Emma was already half way up the stairs, "Mom can Alexa stay the night?"

"I don't care sweetie," she nodded as Alexa grinned, I took Allison into her room as I changed her clothes and she held on to me, "Cuddle," she requested, I smiled as I went to turn off the light and I crawled into her bed with her. She wrapped her arms around me as I rubbed her back while she went to sleep.

"Brie," Troy poked his head in, "Hey, Taylor was looking for you," I glanced down at Allison, "Give me a minute," he nodded as he shut the door, I carefully removed myself as I tucked her in as she was fast asleep already. I kissed her forehead and I went down to the bottom of the stairs, Sharpay and Taylor were both holding the stuff they brought and I wrapped my arms around my mid-section.

"What's up?"

"You don't care if Alexa stays?" Taylor asked me, "Of course not Tay," she smiled, "Good, I'll come pick her up tomorrow morning,"

"Sounds good,"

"Thanks for dinner Gabs!"

"No problem, see you guys later!"

Troy and I watched them go as I heard the giggles of the girls. Troy wrapped his arm around my waist, "I'm tired, I don't know about you but I'm tired,"

"Me too, let's get some rest,"

"Let's go,"

Troy guided me to the bedroom and we both collapsed from the day's exhaustion. I let my headrest on his chest and he rubbed my arm, "You weren't upset when I announced the job over dinner right?"

"No, I'm glad you got t,"

"Good, Emma was becoming upset and then it got quiet so I decided just to say it. I wanted to tell you first but I never got the opportunity too."

"It's okay," I told him quietly as my eyes fought off sleep, "I love you Brie,"

"I love you too Troy,"

Yay for another MLB update! This one happens to fall on my BIRTHDAY! Yay! I hope you all enjoyed!

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