Chapter 20 – First Anniversary Surprise

Saturday, September 4th, 2021

"Saylor," I pushed her hand gently to stop hitting Willa. We had made a weekend trip to Charleston to spend it at the dance studio. We had a big event on Monday since the kids weren't in school for Labor Day. I was heading back on Tuesday and Troy was busy with the basketball team and planning for the next several months in preparation for the games. He tried to come up here, but I told him to stay and get whatever he needed done. The kids were mostly going to be with his parents, but we were grabbing dinner with Jenna, Ethan, and Willa.

"How did they get so big?" Ethan asked as Willa was almost two and they were having a party tomorrow. It worked out on the weekends for us, and I was so thankful that we were going to be able to attend. Sutton ate his food happily as I took a sip of margarita, "How is Statesboro?" Ethan asked and I nodded, "Good. We're all settling in. Troy is getting busier with the basketball team and trying to figure out how they recruit and what not. He's in a ton of meetings every single day." I explained as Ethan whistled, "Does he like it?"

I nodded, "I think so, I think he will enjoy it more when he doesn't feel so overwhelmed by the entire process." Jenna gave a smile, "Are you doing well with Zoey's?" I gave a brief smile, "It's not the same but I am just happy to be involved every day and I still have majority vote. It is still my business." Jenna squeezed my hand, "Is it hard to leave after these weekends?" I shook my head as I gave Sutton and Saylor more bites of food. "No, because I miss my family. As much as I like being up here and I love Zoey's…Troy is my home."

Jenna practically squealed, "Gabi, I always just think back to you with Brad and this you? This Gabi? This is amazing. The happiness, the confidence…I wasn't sure I would ever see it again but here we are with the king you deserved." My cheeks flushed from her words, and I couldn't help but give her a smile. "Thank you for always sticking with me, Jenna." Ethan cleared his throat, I laughed, "You too, Ethan. I don't know if I would have survived those first three months without both of you and the first few months of dating Troy."

"You are so much stronger than you think you are." Ethan reminded me and I laughed, "I know that now, but I did not feel that then." My phone vibrated and I looked down to see Troy facetiming me. I shook my head with a smile as I answered it and his blue eyes light up the screen. He was still at the arena as I recognized his office in the background. "Hey, we're at dinner still. Can I call you back?" he nodded with a smile on his face. "Yea, can I see them really quick? I'm having withdraws." I laughed as I turned the camera to the three kids and the smile on Troy's face melted my heart. Those blue eyes softened, and he just stared at his kids.

"Thanks, Gabs. I want to say good night to them." I nodded, "I will call you when we are getting ready for bed." He nodded as I hung up and Jenna just smiled, "How weird is it staying with his parents?" I laughed, "No, they are amazing. I love Laura and Tommy. I am staying in Troy's old room and Macken is also there as she is home for Labor Day weekend."

"Is it her last year of college?" I nodded, "It is and then she is off to PA school. Staying with the Bolton's is easy. Plus, I will get Maverick snuggles."

We all finished our dinner and finished up our conversations as we packed up the kids. Jenna pulled me into a tight hug, and I hugged her just as tight back. "I miss you," I laughed, "I miss you, too. It's not the same." We both shared a smile as I heard the twins yelling in the back of the car which only made Jenna laugh. "Take those baby's home. I know that husband of yours misses them." I nodded, "He is." We went separate paths with promises to grab a coffee on Monday morning together without kids. I slipped into the car as both of them were tired and I knew we were skipping bath time tonight.

Pulling into the Bolton's driveway, Macken was already outside talking to Silas and then both came to grab a baby. Sutton screamed as he wanted to walk as he was very much wanting to not be held right now. Silas just laughed setting him down and then taking his hand as Saylor was sleepy and curled up on Aunt Mack's shoulder. "Thanks, guys, I appreciate it." There was permeant pack n' plays set up in Brady's old bedroom for any of the kids as we headed up there. "Troy wants to talk to them so I will change them, thank you," I said again as they each nodded and headed out as I found their PJs and got them both changed and ready for bed.

I then pulled them both into my lap and we facetimed Troy. Troy's face appeared and they both squealed with happiness. "Dada!" echoed throughout the room and Troy chuckled as he was still at the office. "Hi babies, are you having fun at Gigi's and Pops?" Sutton tried to take the phone and I kissed their heads as Saylor grabbed her binky and chewed on it. "How was dinner with Jenna? I should have looked to see where you were before I called." I shook my head, "No, it's fine. It was good. It was nice catching up with them and getting to see Willa. I am so glad that we are able to catch her birthday party tomorrow."

Troy gave a patient smile, "I am glad you are home for Willa's party." I gave a laugh as Sutton blew a kiss to Troy as it was his new thing and Troy smiled and caught it before sending him on back. Sutton giggled, "hi dada," he reached for the phone again and Troy smiled, "Hi buddy, dada misses you and I love you." Troy signed I love you to him as we were trying to teach them sign language as was their school. They had picked up a few things. Sutton turned to bury his head against my chest. "Where is my Saylor baby? Is she tired?" I laughed with a nod of my head, "She is tired. Her and Willa played hard today while I was at the studio, and she took a short nap."

She grabbed her lovey and rubbed her face as Troy smiled, "Okay, put them to bed. I love you, Say." I smiled as I kissed their little heads. "Why are you still at work? Go home, Luna misses you." I reminded him of the dog, and he ran his hands through his hair. "I just got caught up doing stuff. I want to get a bunch of stuff finished so I can spend time with all of you this week." I raised an eyebrow towards him, and he shrugged, "I'd rather bury myself in work now and then spend time with you when you are here."

"I love you," I told him, and he smiled, "I love you, too. You in my high school bed? 18-year-old Troy would have been damn lucky." I barked a laugh, "I would have been like 15." Troy rolled his eyes, "let me have my fantasy." I laughed, "I love you, Brie. I'll text you when I am home and then send a picture of my lonely bed." I rolled my eyes at his dramatics, and he chuckled. "Bye baby, bye Say and Sutty!" we all waved, and I put them down into their pack n' plays without much fuss as I handed them their loveys and binky's before kissing their head and heading out of the room.

I shut the door as I went downstairs to find Macken and Laura at the kitchen counter. "Did they go down?" I nodded, "Without fuss. They were tired today." Laura grabbed a wine glass and poured me a drink. "Thank you," I told her, and she nodded, "How is my son? I heard you talking upstairs." I smiled, "Good. He was still at work. I told him to go home because he can go back all day tomorrow and Monday if he finds it necessary." Laura shook her head with a smile on her face. "I knew he would thrive and figure it all out."

"I think that's part of it. He is trying to figure it all out to make sure it is a smooth transition once season comes." Macken grinned, "I should come party down there for a weekend." Macken spoke and Laura laughed, "Only if you want to give your brother a heart attack." I told her and she laughed, "And Silas," her mom added on top as we all laughed. "We plan on coming down in a few weeks to see all of you. Let me know if you need me to bring anything." I nodded, "I will. I hate that you guys aren't as close anymore. I want Saylor and Sutton to be with you so much."

Laura squeezed my arm, "We will, sweetie. Those grandbabies are going to hate me because they will see me too much." I laughed as we all finished our glass of wine, and I headed up to bed. I washed my face and checked on the babies as I looked at both of them asleep and curled up with their blankets. Crawling into Troy's old bed with some of his old stuff still in his room made me smile. The basketball pictures and a picture of all the guys on his bedside table. They were all good friends, and I was happy they were all still such best friends.

I sent Troy a text that I was going to bed and put my phone on the charger before going to bed because I too was tired.


Sunday, September 5th, 2021

Troy's POV

My lips pressed into the back of her neck as I was sitting in my office last night and decided I didn't want to miss out on this weekend at home. We didn't have anything with basketball until Tuesday and I wanted to spend the weekend in Charleston. I was only getting today and tomorrow but it was better than nothing. Plus, I missed my wife and kids. I woke up early this morning to drive up here and I got here before anybody in the house was even awake. I peeked in on the twins as they were both still sleeping soundly.

I put my arm around her waist and pulled her back against me when she sat up in a gasp, those brown eyes looked around in a panic and I couldn't stop my chuckle. My hands went for her hips as I drug her to my lap as my back leaned against the headboard. "What the hell are you doing here? You scared the shit out of me." I laughed as I kissed her cheek, "I missed the hell out of you, and I have nothing to do today or tomorrow for the team, so I figured why the hell not. I can spend the day with the kids while you are at the studio." Those brown eyes light up as she rested her forehead against mine.

"You drove two hours to spend two days here?" he nodded, "I did. It's worth it. Luna loved the drive, and it was good for me to come home and get out of that office. Plus, seeing you?" I tipped her head back as I grabbed her face with a soft kiss and her arms circled around my neck. "Best decision I have ever made." I felt the chills rise on her arms as our mouths locked together. A smile on my face as I held her closer to me. "LUNA!" Macken's angry voice rang out throughout the house, and I pulled away from Gabi with a laugh on my lips.

"Luna," I called out and I heard my mom's voice next. "Troy? Sweetie?" Gabi rolled off my lap as I threaded our fingers together as she snuggled in next to me. The door pushed open, and Luna came through first followed by my mom who was still in her robe and glasses still on her face. "You're here! When did you show up?" my mom came over and wrapped me up in a tight hug. "I showed up about fifteen minutes ago. I hate being away from Gabi and the kids, so I decided to just drive up here last night, but I slept for a few hours first."

My mom squeezed me tighter, "I am so happy to see you," Gabi squeezed my arm as she slipped out of bed. "I'll be here all day with the kids while Gabi is at the studio."

"I am going to make breakfast for everybody! It is so nice to have you all home." My mom went off to her bedroom and I chuckled as Gabi grabbed her stuff for a shower. I smirked as I went to check on the kids as they were both still sleeping, "Hey, Mac," I popped into her room as she was scrolling on her phone. "I am going to hop in the shower with Gabs," she dropped her phone just enough to look at me and I couldn't stop my own laugh. "Stop, nothing like that. Will you just listen out for the kids? I only get so much one on one time with her."

Macken just laughed and I grinned, "I'll grab coffee for both of us."

"Deal," she echoed, and I tossed her the baby monitor as I snuck in the bathroom behind my wife. I ditched my clothes and opened up the door and snuck up behind her. She gasped, "Troy! Stop scaring me!" I couldn't stop my chuckle as I kissed below her ear as I then dropped my lips to her shoulder. "Shh," I whispered into her ear. Her hands pressed into the wall as I pressed into her. "Did you think sitting in my lap wasn't going to result in this?" I murmured against her skin, and she closed her eyes while pressing her hips backwards. "But you have to stay quiet or everybody, especially Macken, will know what we are doing." Gabi twisted to look at me and I laughed, "I asked her to listen for the kids and I happened to mention that I wasn't going to do this."

"Such a naughty liar," I couldn't stop my chuckle as I captured her mouth with mine. I didn't care if I was a naughty liar – I needed her. I knew we were going to be separated so much more in the coming weeks with everything basketball and I could already feel it underneath my skin how much I was going to hate it. My new mission was to get her to go on as many trips as possible with us so that we never had to be apart that long. My fingers slid through her hair as I held the back of her head to give me more access.

I lifted her up and she wrapped her legs around my waist as I pressed her back against the wall. The water running between the two of us. "Did you really miss us that much?" she whispered, and I kissed on her again and down her throat. "I missed you three the moment you pulled out of the driveway. It's impossible to not miss you."

Gabi laughed softly as her fingers ran over my back, "I love you and spending any sort of minute without you…it's not it."

"What are you going to do when you travel?" I kissed her again, "Beg you to come with me." She just laughed but I quickly made her stop as I worked her up. She bit down on her lip, and I chuckled, "Good girl," I murmured as I slid right into her as her head hit my shoulder. "I missed you, too." She whispered and I smiled as I worked her to the brim.

Our bodies worked together and once her feet hit the floor, we were both sweating between the heat of the shower and that. "Good job staying quiet," I teased as I poked her side, and she shot me a glare as we both hurried through the end of the shower. I got out first and I dressed in a pair of shorts with a t-shirt before going to thank Macken as Saylor was sitting in bed with her.

"DADA!" she got up and wobbled on the bed as I chuckled and picked her up. "Hi, Say baby," I wrapped her up tight in my arms and she held onto her binky and I bounced her around. "Daddy missed you." Macken laughed, "I never thought I would see you as a dad but it's truly one of the cutest things." I shook my head, "You didn't think I was ever going to get married?" Macken snorted, "No, never. You were such a dick," I threw her a look, and I covered Saylor's ear against my chest. "Hey, language," Macken rolled her eyes, "For crying out loud, I know Dylan says stuff twice as bad."

"Troy, when did you get here?" my dad came out of his office and I laughed, "Just a bit ago. I missed the kids and Gabi." My dad patted my shoulder, "I wondered why your mom was making breakfast." I couldn't stop my laugh as I nodded, "She was excited to see me."

"I'm just glad I am getting breakfast," Macken spoke, and my dad shook his head as he tickled Saylor and she reached for him. "Come on sweet girl, I heard Gigi was making pancakes." I shook my head as I smile watching him take her down the stairs. I went to check on Sutton as he was stirring. I picked him up and he curled against me before pulling back to see me. "Dada," his voice was tired, and I couldn't stop my laugh, "Hi buddy, did you have a good sleep?" he nodded as he rested her head on my shoulder again as I took him downstairs. "Sutton! Hi buddy!" my dad reached for a high five and Sutton shook his head as he curled up tighter. I sat down as my mom slid me coffee and I thanked her. "I am so happy you are here," my mom gave a big smile.

"I am glad I decided to come home. We have the birthday party this afternoon at Jenna's place, but I'll be here besides then." My mom nodded as Gabi came downstairs with her hair pulled back with a Zoey's crewneck and a pair of leggings. "Mama!" Sutton spotted Gabi and she smiled, "Hi baby," she reached for him, and he snuggled into her. She kissed my cheek and then stole a sip of my coffee. She winked over the cup before setting it down and saying good morning to Saylor. "Thank you, Laura." Gabi said and she nodded, "Of course! I am so happy to have all of you here."

Gabi smiled over at me, and I felt happiness in the room. This was a good weekend home.


I pulled into the dance studio as I told Gabi I would pick her up for the birthday party. The kids were both kicking in the back as we were a little early because I did love to see Gabi here in her element. She was working through a dance at the front and the grin on her face. Fuck, sometimes it was hard to know that she not doing this every day. She worked hard every day to make sure Zoey's still was running and knowing that she missed out on the fun part? My gut twisted as I got out of the car and got Sutton and Saylor out of the car, and we headed inside.

Gabi looked up at the door opening and she smiled as she continued her teaching as I went to the back desk as I entertained the kids. My eyes were practically glued to her as she danced and moved around teaching the girls in front of her, even a little man out there. Sutton wanted up and I picked him up and let him watch as well. He saw his mom and he pointed, "Mama!"

"Yea, that's mama," I told him quietly and Gabi smiled over at him, she jogged over, and Sutton lunged towards her. "Hi buddy! Do you want to dance with mama?" he giggled as Gabi took him to the dance floor and worked with the dancers with Sutton on her hip. I couldn't stop my own smile watching as I pulled my phone out to take a picture of the two of them. Saylor was happily entertained on the floor with some markers. I rested my chin in my hand and smiled watching her because this was her happy place. What I wouldn't give to just up and move it to Statesboro.

It wasn't long before Gabi was wrapping up and she let Sutton loose to play with all the kids. They were probably 12-13 today as Saylor caught wind and headed that direction. My eyes watched her give some tips to different girls as Brea came over to stand next to me. "How is Statesboro? The high school already misses you five. Who is there to talk about?" I let out a dry laugh and a shake of my head. "It's good. It's getting off to a fast start, but we are excited to get to the ground running." Brea looked over at Gabi who was laughing, "I feel bad that I took her from here."

"Don't. She was thrilled this morning coming in here this morning because you were here but then confessed that she was missing the house and all of the friends down there." I blinked and watched her for a beat before I looked at Brea. "She loves it here. She loves dancing."

"Yea, but she loves you and the kids more."

I swallowed and nodded as Gabi headed in this direction, "Hey! You came early." I nodded as she wrapped her arms around my neck, and I easily lifted her up. "I did because I wanted to watch you in your element." Gabi smiled against my skin, and I rubbed her back. "Stop with the worrying. I am happy. This is such a good release every few weeks." I just nodded because I hated that we could read each other's minds. I kissed her temple, "C'mon, let's get the kids back in the car. I am going to change really fast." She kissed my cheek and then ran off to the bathroom.

I smiled with a shake of my head as I scooped up both kids as I let them say good-bye to Brea and Mia while I took them out to the car. I buckled each of them in and as I was finishing up when Gabi came out. "Okay, let's go celebrate Willa." The smile that spread over her lips made my own smile appear as I let my hand fall to her thigh, and I gave it a gentle squeeze as I drove towards Jenna's house. I pulled up to the side of the house as each of us took a kid and we made our way inside. Willa went running by with a giggle as Saylor and Sutton both whined until they were chasing right after her.

I took the diaper bag from Gabi as Jenna swept her up in a hug while I patted Ethan on the back, "Two? How is that possible." He laughed, "Right? I said the same thing. I am trying to figure out how it's been two years myself. I bet you are thinking the same thing." My eyes found the kids and I nodded, "Damn straight. I have no idea how it's been two years almost. The best damn thing that's happened to me since their mother." Ethan laughed, "Luckily, they weren't that far apart." I shot him a look which only made him laugh.

I nodded to a few of the other friends of Jenna and Gabi's as I mostly followed the kids around and helped them with whatever they needed. "Hey, how is my girl in Georgia?" Jenna came up behind me and I smiled as I let my eyes find Gabi as she was talking with a friend, "Good, she says that she is happy there. I just hope she isn't lying to me." I told her and Jenna smiled as she looked at Gabi, "I think the fresh start was truly something that whole family needed. She seems happy." I nodded, "I agree. I just hope it's not an act to make me feel better."

Jenna laughed, "She'd tell you."

"She had such a hard time making the decision I just…I get worried." A sigh filtered from Jenna, "She did but she would never do anything that she didn't think was a good idea." I shot her a half look and she laughed, "I think she is happy. I was just seeing if she was different there." I shook my head, "No, she has been taking the kids to daycare, working on stuff for Zoey's, and then doing stuff around the house. I am trying to make sure that I prioritize family time." Jenna nodded as she looked at the kids and then over to Gabi who was heading this way. "Good, she needs that."

"I know," I told her as Gabi walked up and she cocked her head while wrapping her arms around my waist and tilting her head back. "What are you two talking about over here?" I shook my head with a smile on my face, "Nothing important."

"I was asking what the kids birthday party was going to be this year and if it was going to be here or there?"

"I think here, actually. Troy is playing in South Carolina right around their birthday." I nodded, "We are. I think we can host it at my parents' house or rent something out. I just have to figure out the logistics of it all." I told them both and Gabi scrunched her face, "Just with the players and what not. I mean, if we do it here, I want my best friends there, but somebody has to go back with the team." Gabi just nodded as she let her body rest against mine. "MAMA!" Sutton pulled on Gabi's shorts, and she laughed, "No dada," he pushed my legs, and I couldn't stop my laugh. "Sutty, what's wrong?" Gabi picked him up and he cuddled into her. "I think somebody was jealous." We both laugh as Saylor and Willa were not far behind as Jenna got the cake ready and we did presents as nap time was quickly approaching.

"Are you about ready?" I asked Gabi and she nodded her head, "I am. I think they are all tired." I agreed as we said good-bye to Jenna, Ethan, and Willa before heading to the car. We put the kids in their car seats, and they were falling asleep before we even pulled out of the street. I drove through our favorite coffee shop and got us both a coffee before going to our favorite little bench on the beach. Gabi peeked in the back to see both of them fast asleep as I got out, turned off my car, and remote started it as we sat on the bench in front that faced the beach.

Gabi sighed as she leaned against me, I kissed the top of her head and thanked myself for coming up here today. This was needed for both of us. "I still can't believe you came up here today." She told me with a tiny laugh, and I couldn't stop a smile, "I am glad I came up here. Not being with you three kills me. Plus, if I was doing nothing? I would hate it." Gabi gave a soft smile, and she looked out at the waves. "You scared the shit out of me though." I couldn't stop my laugh and she smiled at me. "Did your friends hate you for leaving?" I shook my head. "No, probably thrilled besides that I was missing golf."

Gabi shook her head with a tiny smile, "Saylor and Sutton and your mom are probably thrilled to have you here."

"You?" I asked teasing her and she smiled, "I couldn't be happier," I tipped her head back to give her a kiss and she smiled, "I love you; you made this the perfect weekend back home." I stroked her face as I stared at those brown eyes to find any unhappiness, any tells, anything but she gave me nothing but a smile. My thumb stroked her jaw a few times and she let out a sigh, "Too bad we are staying with your parents." I couldn't stop my laugh as my wall was practically next to my parents' room. Brady was on the other side. I can only imagine they made these room assignments when we were children with a purpose.

"Might just have to sneak into the shower again."

"How come I feel like that is something you did as a teenager?" I just let out a dry laugh and I didn't answer.


Thursday, September 16th, 2021

Gabi's POV

I was washing dishes as the kids were taking their nap and I was enjoying the moment of peace and quiet. Sutton had pink eye and wasn't allowed back at school until tomorrow, but we were just going to keep both of them home through the weekend because Saylor was bound to get it herself. My parents were out looking at their condo to see what all they needed to get together for it. Once I closed the dishwasher, I checked on the kids, and then I sat down to do some stuff on my laptop. The door to the garage opened and I scrunched my eyebrows as Troy said he wasn't going to be home until later tonight.

Yet, he walked in with a thing of flowers, a shit eating grin, and his work backpack already off his body. "What's wrong?" I asked as I felt nervous with how he was prepping me for something. He shook his head as he handed me the flowers, "It's a little early and I will make sure we get to celebrate on the proper day but…basketball season will be in full swing, and I want to give us the proper first anniversary that we both deserve." I scrunched my eyebrows together as I took in the bouquet of wildflowers which were some of my favorites.

"We are celebrating our anniversary tonight?" I questioned and he shook his head with a smile, "All damn weekend, baby. We leave tonight." I really scrunched my face as I stared at him, "We leave for what?" I asked and he just shot me a smile over his shoulder. "We leave at three actually. We'll be rolling in right around dinner time." I just stared at him as he went up the stairs, "Are the kids going?" Troy just laughed as he kept going. "I'll take that as a no. Are my parents watching them? Troy, do they know?" he stopped and turned to face me, "Do you think I would plan this whole weekend and not make sure I had childcare secured for our children? Yes, your parents know. Yes, they are watching them. Yes, they know what we are up, too. No, I will not tell you where we are going. It's a car ride, you need beachy clothes, and that's all I'm telling you."

He spun and went back to the bedroom as I just blinked. "So, we're going to the beach?"

"Pack a swim-suit, only because they require one." I rolled my eyes, and I watched him for a moment as he started to pack his own back. "Oh, and one nice outfit. We have a fancy dinner reservation." He turned and left as I was standing dumbfounded after him. My first thought was I wasn't mentally prepared to leave my babies. My eyes darted to their room as I had a strong instinct to go and wake them up. I couldn't though. They were absolute bears if I woke them up from their nap. My eyes watched Troy pull clothes into his duffle bag. "Gabs, c'mon, we have to be going soon."

"But I didn't know that I wasn't going to spend more time with the kids." I told him and those blue eyes turned to focus on me for a moment and I looked at their bedroom door and back to Troy, again. "We won't leave until they are up from their nap." Troy said softly and I looked at him for a moment and then nodded. I walked over as I leaned against him, "I appreciate this surprise, don't think that I don't but I am just…not mentally prepared to leave the babies. I will get there but it's throwing me off." Troy stopped what he was doing and let both of his hands frame my face.

"I'm sorry, I should have thought of that. We haven't had a spontaneous vacation together since before them. I didn't think about it like that. I just wanted to surprise you." I gave him a smile as I let my hand cover his hand. "You did surprise me, and I cannot wait to go with you, but I am just nervous." He kissed the crown of my head and then wrapped me up in his arms. "They are going to be so well taken care of."

"I know, I know, it's just that nagging anxiety in the back of my brain."

"We don't have to go." Troy said and I didn't have to look at him to know that would majorly bum him out. I shook my head, "No, I am just sharing my feelings. I love this surprise and a weekend with you sounds amazing. We don't get it often and we should get to celebrate our one-year anniversary. I just don't want you to think I am not appreciative and happy based on my initial reaction. I am just trying to get my brain wrapped around leaving them for the weekend." Troy squeezed my arms and he nodded, "Okay, how about we pack and then we can wake them up and play with them for a little bit? Until you are ready to leave."

I peered up at him with a smile, "Thank you," I whispered to him.

We did just as he had planned. We packed our bags, Troy continued to not tell me anything, and we got the twins up and out of bed as we played with them in the living room. My parents returned home as I loved on both of my babies before kissing them each one more time and standing up. "I'm good," I said to Troy, and he nodded with a smile, we gave our final speech to my parents as they knew the drill better than anybody these days. We got into my car as Troy took the driver's seat and he looked over at me with a smile, "Let's go celebrate one year of marriage,"

I grinned as I let my hands lace with his as we pulled out of the driveway. We headed towards the highway and Troy handed me his phone. "DJ," he told me with a smile on his face. "This is taking me back to our first road trip together." I told him as I scrolled through his playlists on his phone. He chuckled, "I loved taking that trip to Hilton Head." I smiled as I found our wedding playlist that we had made on his phone, and I turned it on. Our first dance song started up first and I laughed at the coincidence. "I picked the playlist and shuffled it, and this was the first one," I told him, and he smiled.

"Fate,"

We sang along to Dan and Shay as he drove along the highway. He had me answering text messages and he ignored all phone calls. "I told the guys they could reach me until we got there. I said I was going to disconnect unless it was my parents or your parents." I couldn't stop my smile and I looked at him, "I love you," I whispered, and he smiled back over at me. "I love you more, this weekend is going to be something that might carry us through basketball season. I wish I knew how crazy it was going to get but I have no idea."

"I know, we just need to take it one day at a time. I didn't commit to anything at the dance studio this winter until I knew more about how basketball was going to unfold for you. They all agreed and understood. I told them that I would tell them once we both have a better understanding." His smile faltered for a moment, and I watched the car roll on the highway, "Jenna told me you are worried I won't tell you if I hate it here." His face grimaced and he sighed as he adjusted himself in his seat.

"That's not what I said exactly," my eyes looked over at him and he looked over at me briefly. "I just was talking that I am worried that you aren't happy, and you are happier back in Charleston. I love watching you at the dance studio. You have the world's biggest smile on your face. A similar one to when Sutton and Saylor do something new, and you are so proud of them." I smiled as I listened to him and he sighed, "I just want the world for you. You deserve all the happiness because you have been through so much and I just am trying to make sure that you are lacking in Statesboro."

"There is nothing lacking. It's probably a better balance. I wasn't getting any of this done at the studio and as the starter of this studio this is my job to do. I am getting so much more done and it's running smoothly. I am enjoying my online classes plus going back every couple of weeks isn't terrible. It's refreshing and I am not burning out." Troy nodded, "I just need you to tell me." He said softly and I squeezed his hand, "I will. I promise."


Friday, September 17th, 2021

Troy's POV

The start of this trip had been exactly what Gabi and I needed together. Last night, we arrived just in time to get ready at the hotel and get a sunset dinner on the beach in St. Augustine, Florida. Today, we had spent it by the pool and down at the beach before we came back to take a nap as we had another dinner, a sunset cruise, and I planned to bring her back and show her how much I love her and how much I love being married to her. She was finishing getting ready as I pulled on my white button up shirt with a pair of golf shorts. I put on pair of Air Force Ones.

I twisted my wedding ring around my finger as Gabi came out in a summer dress and a pair of wedges. Her legs were stunning as was the rest of her. Her hair was pulled into a high ponytail with her curls spilling out the back of it. "Gabriella," I murmured, and her cheeks turned a soft pink as I took her hand and twirled her in a circle. "You are stunning," I whispered to her. She gave a soft smile, and I couldn't help it as I shook my head. "I am so damn lucky," I whispered to her, and she shook her head as I looked down at her. Those brown eyes scanned my face and I had to focus myself.

"C'mon, we have a fun night planned." I turned away from her and she just laughed as I grabbed her keys, and we headed out of the hotel room. I grabbed her hand, and we made our way outside and to the car. I opened her car door and she looked at me, "What are you doing?" I couldn't stop my laugh as I shook my head, "Being a good husband," she shook her head and I shut the door as I went to get into the driver's side. "What is for dinner?" she asked as I navigated towards a little local restaurant a few people recommended to me.

"A little mom and pop diner place, our fancy dinner is tomorrow." I shot her a smile, and she shook her head, "You know I will enjoy my dinner more tonight than tomorrow, right?" I chuckled, "Me, too, probably but tomorrow is a steak and seafood house. We might enjoy it." She picked up her phone and then grinned wider. I knew her parents must have sent her a picture of the babies. We stopped at a light and Gabi turned the phone to me as they were both hugging each other. "That is so cute, I love seeing them not fight." A laugh echoed from her mouth with a nod of her, "Yea, you are right. It has been nice getting some peace and quiet, but I can't wait to hear them on Sunday."

I squeezed her knee as we pulled into the parking lot, and we headed inside. We got seated at the table and we sat across from each other. I hooked my foot with hers underneath the table as our knees touched. Her eyes lifted to mine, and she had that glint in her face, "You are being awful touchy today," I just smirked before looking at the menu as we both ordered a beer, and we browsed the menu. "You will be at our first game, right?" I asked her and those eyes snapped up to meet mine, "What? Why is that even a question. Of course, I will be at the game."

"Just making sure, it will be the starts of respiratory season and what not. I know we don't want the kids getting sick and it's a much bigger arena than the high school." Gabi shook her head, "We will be there. All of us. Your entire family and my family is coming besides Blaine and them. I do need to pick a weekend to go up to Tennessee to watch Blaine." I exhaled and nodded, "Thank you, it seemed like a silly question, but I need you there. More than I think you realize." She turned her head as the waitress came back and we both placed our order before I continued. "You calm me and knowing that you are there makes me relax and do my best. Sometimes, I feel like when you aren't there, and you can't always be there. That is well understood but I don't worry. You are nearby. You are right there in front of my eyes. I know the kids are good, I don't know. It puts me in a better head space."

She squeezed my hand, "I know. I want to be as many as I can. The traveling might be hard, but we will come with you from time to time. I can promise to just stay at home." I laughed and she smiled, "I want you to be successful and be in the right head space. I could see the distraction if you were worried, or we were not around or if you hadn't heard from me but know that I am worried about you on the road. I truly don't know how I will survive any more heartbreak any time soon and with our kids I would have to figure it out, but I don't want too, so I worry just the same. Being with you? My heart is at peace."

"I love you," I told her, and she smiled, "I love you, more." I shook my head, "Not possible." I whispered to her. "We are going to figure this year out and go from there." I nodded in agreement as our food showed up shortly after as we devoured it and then finished our drinks before heading back to the car after paying. It was a quick drive to the marina and Gabi grinned, "You know I love a good boat ride,"

"I have some fond memories of a boat ride," Gabi couldn't stop her growing smile, "I love that picture of us on the boat that the stranger took," I nodded as we checked in and got on the boat as we took a secluded spot as Gabi sat on my lap and I hooked my arm around her. My lips pressed into her neck as the captain got everybody loaded and I smiled back against her skin. "Favorite part of this past year together?" I asked her and she thought about it for a moment as our hands connected. "I don't know. I think what we talked about on our honeymoon was those little moments. I love laying on the couch and watching TV with you. I love lying in bed or going to get breakfast with the kids. I love our little quiet moments that makes my heart happy. Those are so important to me. If you want a big moment? I think having the conflict of what we were going to do. I think we handled it so well and I was proud of us."

My lips buried into her hair as I wasn't sure what to say back to that, but I was saved due to the captain speaking. I chewed on my lip as we listened, and I tried to think of something that was even comparative to what she just said. Once the boat was off the dock and we were sailing in the ocean with the breeze in our face I inhaled as she turned to look at me. "You? You have to have a favorite moment." I smiled, "Watching you open Zoey's was one of my favorite moments. Watching all of your hard work and dedication to Zoey's while being a mom and while being the best fucking wife? It's amazing. You're amazing. I agree with our little moments, but I love our big moments just as much."

They played music on the boat as the sun was setting in the background. Gabi took a selfie of the two of us as we both smiled into the camera. "This is a moment I needed though." I told her and she smiled, "I know, I heard your voice when you said we could cancel it if I needed, too. I could hear how disappointed you were going to be." I inhaled against her skin, and I loved the smell of her. The salt and ocean that was also on her skin was a bonus. "I didn't realize how much I needed it until I was here but you're right. I would have been disappointed, but I would have made the weekend just as special."

"Not as special as this,"

I chuckled, "No, probably not."


Gabi's POV

I curled into his chest as he took his time with my body tonight and I knew he wasn't done but we were both coming down from our last high still. His fingers woven into my hair and our bodies warm against each other. "Have you taken any pregnancy tests?" Troy asked randomly and I shook my head, "No, I've had my period the last few months." I told him as I looked up at him and he nodded, "You really ready for another one?" Troy let a tiny smile on his face with a shrug. "It's just been a bit since we talked about it. A few friends and family announcing…just wasn't sure what you were thinking."

His finger ran down my arm and I held onto him. My fingers wrapping around his forearm, and I shook my head, "I haven't thought about it too much. My period ended a few days ago but like I told you from the beginning, I'm not stressing about it. Waiting one more year if it isn't successful isn't the end of the world for me. I am back and forth with if right now was the right time or not."

"We don't have to be trying if you don't think it's the right time," he told me and I shook my head, "I think next year I would have the same thought. I don't know if I will ever think it, is the right time. Our kids are in a fun age all the time and I want to enjoy it with them, but I think each age will be fun. We will always be busy. That's never going to change. So, if it happens now, it happens, if it doesn't, it doesn't." Troy was quiet on it, and he kissed my neck a few times. "You are such an amazing woman; I am the luckiest damn person." I laughed as I rolled over to face him.

"I am lucky," I told him honestly.

He smiled and kissed on my cheek and then down my neck, "Again? Already?" I asked him and he just laughed against my skin. The vibrations causing goosebumps to travel up and down my body. "You think I am done already? Are you calling me old?" I laughed with a shake of my head as he peered up at me with those blue eyes. "No, I am not calling you old. I am just impressed and thinking you are insatiable." He tugged on my legs to pull me down in the bed and I squealed with laughter as the door to our room was slightly open because I wanted to hear the ocean. "Gabi,"

"Hmm?" I asked as I watched him wiggle further down the bed. He eased my legs apart without any protest from me, "Be quiet," he warned as his eyes wiggled towards the window and I laughed but I quickly stopped laughing as he took no mercy on me. He stopped any time I made a noise as it was a game to him, and I threaded my fingers into his hair to pull him closer to me and he just laughed again. "Why do I have to be quiet, but you don't?" I struggled and he just hummed. "Fuck, Troy," I gripped harder onto his hair, and he just pulled his head away laughing. "Gabi,"

"Finish," I demanded as I tried to catch my breath and he found my mouth with his as he easily slid into me as he had me primed for him. I couldn't stop the gasp as I wrapped my legs around his waist to pull him deeper into me. His hand gripped the back of my head as he pulled me into a deep kiss. It didn't take long for my body to take off and Troy's followed while I curled back into him. Our legs intertwined together in the bed as I picked up my phone to see it was well after midnight. "When is the last time we stayed up this late?"

"It's been a while; the kids are exhausting." We laughed together and I nodded, "They are but so much fun. I wonder if they are doing anything new. Saying any new words."

We laughed talking about our future, our current, and our past. We talked about our favorite memories and all of our wants for the next year. I couldn't believe it had almost been an entire year since our wedding day. It felt like it was just yesterday we were preparing for our big day. I kissed Troy's chest, and he looked down with a smile, "This was the best surprise," he smiled, "Good,"


HI! I hope you all enjoyed the chapter! I have been swamped with life lately. I am slowly trying to catch up but only getting set behind again when I am down a hand starting tomorrow. It will take about three weeks before I can type comfortably again (and I have to figure out how to write a paper for my class lol might have to go old school and use paper and pencil haha) but please have some more patience! I am hoping I can get an update out in early October. These characters aren't going anywhere (big smile)

Thank you again for the patience!

PLEASE REVIEW!