Chapter 27 – Showers

Sunday, February 27th, 2022

26 Weeks Pregnant

Gabi's POV

"It looks perfect," we had taken it upon ourselves to throw Kaden and Jacy a baby shower. We had gotten all of their friends involved, friends of the basketball team, and anybody we could think of to make sure they felt love. Nothing had gotten better with their relationship with their parents, but things had been better with including them. We had them over for dinner once a week. Troy was helping him find jobs and working with him after hours to give him time to work. Lennon was having her baby shower next weekend and then the following weekend I was flying out to Wyoming to celebrate Beth's baby shower. I was taking Lucy with me while Troy finished up his basketball season.

It was winding down to a close with the only big thing left was the tournament. They weren't expecting to get into any sort of post-season tournaments, but they were hovering right around five hundred with efforts to improve. Recruiting went well for them this year with three more players replacing the seniors that were leaving. They were also going to look at the transfer portal to see if they could find anybody. They found out it was a boy not too long before we found out we were having a boy. They wanted everything in neutral though.

It was soft and natural. I couldn't wait for her to see. Troy and I took care of the crib and mattress for them. Sage and Jesse bought them a car seat. Dylan and Josie bought the stroller. Cameron and Lennon bought them a good swing. Sara and Jax bought them a dresser that would turn into a changing table for them. We then all pitched in to buy them a swivel glider. We wanted to make sure all of the big stuff was purchased for them without stress. We were hoping that their friends would pick up the other big stuff. "Gabi, the house is stunning." Lennon hugged me as her baby bump was so cute with her outfit.

"How is this sweet girl?" I asked her and she smiled, "So good, I cannot wait to see her face. How is that precious baby boy?" I smiled, "Good. His dad and I are just arguing names at the moment." Lennon laughed as they had a name but weren't sharing until the birth of the baby. Troy and I couldn't even get remotely on the same page. I was almost going to suggest that we have a list of five again and then have two vetoes' until we can figure it out. "I am just glad we can be there for these kids. Somebody kick us if we ever treat our kids like this."

"I have told Troy several times that I don't care how bad it is. We stand by them. We might be disappointed, and we might be upset but we have to show them love. Show them we care. Show them that we will always be in their corner." The boys were all at practice as they were going to join afterwards but the party was starting beforehand. Sutton, Saylor, and Noah were all taking a nap together. Stella was in her swing, and it was calm and quiet for now. It wasn't long before Jacy showed up and she was beautiful with her tiny little baby bump for being almost nine months pregnant.

She was due first of everybody – April 1st. "You guys," Jacy had tears and I went over to give her a hug. "You deserve to be celebrated." I told her and she couldn't stop her tears as she could see all the big gift items sitting out. "You…" she shook her head as she put her hand over her mouth to help reel in the emotion. Lennon wrapped her up in a hug, "Yes, we did. We had too because shit is expensive and none of us know that better than this group right here." She hugged each of us and I had her sit down while we finished up. Her friends started to come through the door, and she was hugging each of them. Boxes and boxes of diapers and wipes came through along with other gifts.

We were all in big hostess mode and making sure all the girls were comfortable. It wasn't long before boys starting coming in with more diapers. I smiled as it wasn't long before Troy Bolton and his coaches were coming through the door. Luna at his feet as she made a beeline for Jacy who she was obsessed with. Troy scanned around before landing on me. He smiled before walking over as he wrapped his arms around me. "Hi," I murmured as I kissed his cheek and he smiled, "Hi, how is it going so far?" I nodded, "Good. How was practice? Ready for next weekend?" he nodded his head, "We are getting there. I can't say we are ready, ready but we're getting there."

I reached up to kiss him as our baby boy moved around in my belly and kicked me. I smiled as I reached for Troy's hand, and he grinned as he felt him move. "How is my little man?" I laughed, "He's good. Moving around like crazy today." Troy chuckled, "Speaking of…where are my children?"

"They were still napping. Sage went upstairs to check on Noah so they might all be awake." Troy nodded as he kissed me again before heading to check on the kids. I hugged Kaden as he was standing behind Jacy. "I hope this helps," I told him, and he gave a smile as his eyes went over all the big items. "I don't think we could ever thank you guys enough," I smiled, "We are always here for you." I reminded him and he nodded, "Kawden!" I laughed as Sutton threw his hands up and Kaden smiled, "Hi little buddy,"

Jacy smiled at the two of them as I left them be as I let my eyes move to the ultrasound pictures on the fridge. Troy and I had our follow-up scan about two weeks ago for nothing to be changed. It was still dilated but not worse but still not better. Dr. Johnson wanted to wait another four weeks before really sending me to a specialist since she still wasn't concerned. We had another scan in two weeks and I loved getting to see him so that wasn't a hardship, but I wish it would make a move in either direction, so we weren't just waiting in limbo. Dr. Johnson said we might still at minimum have him do an ultrasound after he's born just to make sure.

I think Troy and I were comfortable with that as long as nothing got worse. Until Dr. Johnson had more discomfort over the situation then we wouldn't be concerned. "Mama!" Saylor threw her arms around me as I hugged on her as I had her help with moving presents to Jacy. They got so many essentials – bottles, diapers, wipes, gender neutral clothes, swaddles, a few toys, and a play mat. There was also a gift card that we had collected money from the community from a basketball game. "We want you to save this for now. I know Jacy that you want to try and breastfeed and all of us who have been through the journey are more than willing to help you with it. But if something happens – save this for formula for now. If breastfeeding is going great, then use it for whatever but save it for formula for a little bit." Sara told her and Jacy just hugged her.

Troy wrapped his arm around my neck to pull me back, "Thank you," he whispered into me ear and I held onto his arm. "I would always hope somebody would do this for my kids. Not that I would ever do this but if something happened to the both of us. I would hope somebody would do this for them." Troy kissed my temple as it wasn't long before it was over. The boys were all carrying things to Kaden and Jacy's car. Once the car was loaded, we invited Kaden and Jacy to stay for Sunday dinner. They agreed as the whole crew was here tonight.

"Seriously, thank you," Kaden said after a bit. "This was all too much and all of the furniture and the big items. Thank you, our baby is so loved." Jacy nodded in agreement, "Yes, this was overwhelming for the both of us, but we also know that you guys are in our corner." The group agreed as Sutton crawled into Kaden's lap while Saylor was planted in her dad's lap. "This doesn't stop once you graduate," Troy told Kaden. "As long as you are here with us in Statesboro then this is your family. This is where you belong. You can call any of us at any time." Troy explained with a smile.

"Parenthood isn't easy and if we can do anything to make it somewhat easier – we will." Jesse said and Kaden nodded with a sigh of relief. "I know none of us can replace your parents but hopefully you still feel the love." Cameron tossed on and Kaden nodded his head as Troy and him had many conversations over what to do. He suggested flying out to have an in-person conversation with them and to at least get a sliver of closure. Kaden was worried about leaving Jacy, but Troy reassured him several times that we would be there for her.

So, he was heading to Texas in a few weeks to talk to his parents – right after the season was over. Troy squeezed my leg as we finished dinner, promised to bring the remaining furniture over to their apartment, and I collapsed back on the couch. My hand resting on my belly. "I can do bedtime," Troy said sitting next to me as Saylor and Sutton were playing with their toys. Troy dragged my feet into his lap, and he massaged them gently as I groaned. "Why does that feel good?" Troy chuckled as he shook his head, "Probably because I know you and you haven't sat down all day today." I couldn't disagree with that.

Troy did it for a few more moments, "Go take a shower and get ready for bed. I am going to take care of these two," I nodded as he stood up and then went to help me up. I stared at him, and he only laughed before dipping down to steal a kiss. "I love you, thank you for accepting those two." I reached up to cup his face, "Thank you for letting them into our lives." Troy smiled and he then helped me up before we went and did bedtime.


Thursday, March 3rd, 2022

Pensacola, FL

Troy's POV

Tournament play started today, and I could only watch my wife and kids who were all curled up in a hotel bed. We traveled down yesterday morning as the girls were all doing things together and I was jealous. If we won today, we were off tomorrow, and I planned on having an early practice before letting all of them have a beach day as it was pretty warm down here this week. Maybe not warm enough to get into the ocean but warm enough to enjoy the day. Saylor and Sutton were wrapped around Gabi as she had moved out of our bed at some point to lay with them.

Her hand was on her belly, and I couldn't wait until I got to meet him. I sat Gabi's coffee down as I leaned forward to kiss her forehead. She sighed and stretched out but felt the resistance of Saylor on her back. "You left me," I teased quietly, and she smiled as her eyes closed again. "What are the plans for you guys today?"

"I think the resort has a heated pool so we're going to let the kids play since it should be warmer water." She rubbed her belly and then reached over for Sutton. "Did one of them wake you up?" she nodded, "Sutton. He poked my arm and I realized really quickly why they still sleep in a crib at home." A laugh echoed out of my mouth which caused Saylor to move. I eased her off the edge and back to the other side. She barley woke up before grabbing her blanket and going back to bed. "Win or lose we are staying here tonight." I reminded her as we were playing late tonight.

"Okay, I don't know if we'll make it through the whole game. I am hoping to push off naptime for a little bit longer today." I stroked her hair, "I know. Just text me when you are heading back. Okay?" Gabi nodded her head as I wiggled her iced coffee. "I am going to make sure all the boys are up eating breakfast. Do you want me to bring something up?" she nodded her head. "I'll just bring up an assortment of stuff, sound good? Unless you want something."

"No, an assortment is fine. Just make sure there is some protein," I agreed as I kissed her again before I got up. I grabbed my coffee and headed back downstairs. Overall, I don't think anybody was sad to see our first season end. It was a giant learning curve and we had learned a lot. I just think next year would be better. I think the players would trust us more as we were going to finish over five hundred which was more than I could have asked for. I had three talented freshmen coming in and I couldn't wait to see what the portal did.

Going to the lobby I found most of the team eating breakfast and reports that the next few guys were coming down. Jesse and Jax were sitting at a table as Noah were on Jax's lap. "Where is Stels?" I asked and he smiled, "Getting her breakfast." I laughed as I sat down and surveyed the breakfast line to see what I would take Gabi. "Is Gabs and the kids asleep?" I nodded, "For the most part. Gabi is half awake. The kids are crashed." We were leaving soon for our walk-through before coming back. Dylan and Cameron were going to stay back and watch the other teams to scout.

Lennon stayed back being so close to her due date in about five weeks and Josie was finishing up their wedding planning back home in South Carolina. Sage, Sara, and Gabi were all down here with the kids though and I definitely could use a little time with them. I have been scattered lately with the end of season and just trying to finish strong. I couldn't wait for our family trip, the summer beach house, and just getting out of here. Spending time with my family. "What are next week's plans?" Cameron asked me and I leaned back. "I think we are going to have end of year one-on-ones and turn everything in. Besides that – take the week off."

"Summer work-outs start in?"

I rubbed my neck, "Not sure yet. We'll all sit down together and figure out how summer is going to play out. Between babies, travel plans, etc., it's going to be a little chaotic. Plus, the portal is opening soon, and I want to get at least two more players." I ran my fingers through my hair as I counted all of the boys. I nodded as I stood up to get breakfast for Gabi. I made a waffle, grabbed eggs and bacon plus sausage, and then a cup of yogurt with fruit. I carried it upstairs with promises to the boys that I would be right back.

Opening up the door I heard Sutton, and I smiled as Gabi was getting ready in the bathroom with Sutton on the counter still in his PJs and half asleep. "Dada!" he yelled, and Gabi smiled as she turned to see the plate of food. "Thank you," I nodded as I put the food down and then kissed the side of her neck. I picked up Sutton as he snuggled in, "Do you want me to take him?" Gabi peeked up in the mirror, "Do you have time?" I nodded, "I do. I can get him fed and then if Saylor wakes up and you don't have enough food just text me and I can bring more up." Gabi smiled with a nod as I put on his little slippers before carrying him downstairs.

"Do you want waffle or toast?" I asked him and he thought about it for a moment, "Waffle!" I smiled as I rounded the corner as he spotted Noah. Jesse grinned and I went to our table as I sat Sutton down in a chair. "Sutty, stay with Jesse and Noah, okay?" he nodded as I went to get him breakfast. "Hey Coach B, do you think we can do it tonight?" I nodded, "I think we can. We'll be ready." The kids grinned as I grabbed eggs and sausage plus fruit for Sutton. I cut up his waffle and put minimal syrup on it before going back to the table. Sutton grinned at his plate as he sat in my lap and ate.

He fed me a bite every so often and I smiled watching him. "Are you happy it's two boys?" I laughed, "Maybe. I don't know. I love both of them, but he is a lot of fun. The next one could be nothing like Sutton though." Jax chuckled, "Fair. He is damn cute though." I looked down at him as he still favored Gabi in a lot of ways. "That's because he is a spitting image of his mother. She is the stunner."

"No shit," Dylan said with a laugh. I shook my head with a smile as I couldn't wait for some golf this summer and just being out and about without stress of the basketball season. We finished up our breakfast and I reminded the boys we were leaving in thirty minutes for shoot-around. Sutton finished most of the food, but I grabbed yogurt to let him eat some of that before I tossed everything. I washed him up and I smiled at his Bluey PJs that he was wearing. I picked him up and he wrapped his little arms around my neck.

"I love you, Sutty." I told him as I squeezed him. "I love you, dada!" I smiled kissing his temple before taking him back to Gabi. Gabi was sitting on the floor with Saylor as she seemed to be a little bit sleepy still. "Say, want another bite?" she shook her head and cried. Gabi put the plate down and pulled her into her lap as she kissed on her. "Sissy!" Sutton wiggled down to greet her and Saylor brightened up with him. Gabi smiled as Sutton sat on Gabi's other lap and I smiled watching them. "I am going to head down and make sure all the kids get on the bus. Can I help you with anything before I go?" Gabi looked up and smiled but shook her head. "No, we're okay. I'll see you this afternoon?" she questioned, and I nodded, "Yes, you will."

I went over and I kissed each of their heads and I smiled, "I love you, Brie,"

"Love you, too, Bolton,"


Friday, March 4th, 2022

Gabi's POV

Troy and the team had won yesterday by ten points, and they were currently at practice getting ready for their match-up tomorrow night. I was preparing the kids for a beach day as they were napping currently and then we were out of here. We stayed for the first half last night before they were cranky. Sage popped open our adjourning door once the boys left. Noah and the kids were playing together while we finished packing everything up. Once the team was back, we were all heading out to the beach for a day in the sun.

Troy wanted them to relax but we were only staying a few hours so they could come back, hydrate, nap, and then watch film with their dinner tonight. "Gabi, do you want me to sunscreen them?" Sage asked and I glanced over to see her doing Noah already. "Sure. I will be there in a minute to help." I packed snacks and the towels before I went over to help finish the sunscreen process. Sutton sat in my lap as I lathered him up and down when the two doors popped open at the same time. "Daddy!" all three kids yelled out as Jesse and Troy both laughed.

Saylor ran over to Troy, and he happily picked her up while I finished with Sutton who whined, "The boys are supposed to be back on the bus in twenty minutes. Are you ladies almost ready?" Troy asked and I nodded as I just needed to change into my own swimsuit. "We are. Just putting together the final things. How was practice?" Troy gave a smile as Jesse laughed, "Brutal. Nobody wanted to focus. We almost cancelled the beach day for them but then we couldn't decide what coach was going to have to stay behind with them." We all laughed as I put sandals on both kids while Troy changed and then I changed in the bathroom. I pulled on a tank-top with a pair of jean shorts.

My belly was making all of my clothes a little snug as I barely got them to button. Troy was holding both kids in his arms as I grabbed the bags, "Okay, we can head down." Troy smiled as we all headed down together. We met up with Cameron who happily took one of the kids. "Not long before you have your own," Troy sang and Cameron laughed, "I can't wait."

"It is the best," Jax spoke as he had Stella curled in his arm as she was still sleeping. Dylan grumbled, "I will be the only one without a kid now." Troy chuckled, "Not for long I fear," Troy shot him a wink, "Fuck, no," Dylan spoke, and Sage hit his arm. "Language, Dylan, seriously those two-year-old will repeat anything." We all laughed because it was true as we came out and most of the boys were already down here and ready to go. We loaded the cars full of kids before the guys loaded the bus. Troy kissed the kids head, "I'll see you there,"

Sutton whined and reached for Troy, "Daddy has to go ride with the basketball players. I'll see you in a bit." He kissed him once more before shutting the door and heading to the bus. I turned the car over and waited for the bus to pull out before Sage, Sara, and I followed the bus. It wasn't long before we were pulling up to the beach and I smiled as I knew the kids were going to have fun. Troy had gotten a lot better on just giving the kiss, saying good-bye, and ducking out with this job. Their age made it really hard, and they missed him, but they would learn. I parked the car, and it wasn't long before Troy came back out and opened the door.

"Dada!" they both cried together, and I laughed as I slipped out to grab the opposite side. Saylor pouted, "I want dada!" I giggled as I kissed on her face, "Hang on baby, you have all day with him," I whispered to her, and she pouted and pressed her face into my neck. I kissed her hair as Troy met me at the trunk. I handed him Saylor and he smiled, "I will take them down there. Do you want me to come back?" I shook my head as I picked up the two bags, "That's all I have," Troy nodded with a smile as the boys were already diving into the cold ocean as it was already eighty degrees.

The coaches were all camping out, families were joining us, and it was a good day. Jacy had drove up with one of her friends as she was sitting with Kaden and her friend. I sat down after putting down blankets as the kids were playing in the sand already. Troy made sure they both had their hats on as he sat with them. Noah and Jesse joined as I sat back and let the sun soak up. This felt good. Troy let his hand rest on my leg as Sage smiled, "I think I finally convinced Jesse to go for number two. He said if Troy can handle three, he can handle two." I couldn't stop my laugh as I glanced over at her.

"For sure, I love having two of them. I know I didn't have it any different, but I love that they have each other. I also love having each a boy and a girl and how different it can be." Sage smiled, "I think we're now just waiting for the whole basketball season thing to time it right." I laughed, "Fair. I am so glad we are having this baby in off-season." Sage smiled as we watched the kids for a moment. "Any scares for pre-term labor again or is everything checking out?" I smiled, "Everything is checking out. We are just watching that little kidney still. We are going to another ultrasound in the middle of March right before I go to Wyoming."

"Hopefully it is all the same or better," I nodded, "Hopefully. Dr. Johnson is not worried. So, I am trying too not be worried." She smiled, "A good motto to have. Especially because there is so much else going on." I nodded as Sutton popped up and ran over to me. His arms wrapped around my neck, and I smiled as I kissed on him. "Hi buddy, are you having fun?" he nodded as he tucked himself into my body. Troy smiled watching us as I shook my head at him. He sent me a grin before he turned his attention to Saylor. He helped her build a sandcastle as Sutton went to help after a bit.

All of the guys were having fun, the kids were playing, and I felt content. Happy. I wanted this more often. Troy watched the kids as he scooted back next to me as he wiped his hands off and pulled out his phone. He turned to show me the phone and I smiled and then I had tears in my eyes as it was a series of photos. Sutton coming over to me, me opening my arms to greet him with a hug, and then one of him grinning as he wrapped his arms around me. The last was my favorite as he had his eyes closed with a content smile as he had his head on my shoulder. He was sitting on my bump, and I was smiling as I held him close to me.

"I love these," I told him, and he smiled, "Me, too," I wiped away my tears as Troy kissed me softly. "I love you,"

"I love you, too,"


Saturday, March 5th, 2022

27 Weeks Pregnant

Troy's POV

We lost.

Not without great effort and great teamwork and an overtime but we had lost.

It stung.

Deep in my gut did it sting.

The bus was quiet, but I had told all of them that I was overly proud of them. This year was full of adversity and hard work. We were only going to get better from here. I told me seniors that I was so damn lucky to get to know all of them. That I was so proud of all of their work this year and for trusting me. It was an emotional speech and the worst part – Gabi and the girls headed back before the bus left. They missed the last half of the game, but the kids were all cranky and they wanted to start the drive home. They were always heading back tonight due to Lennon's baby shower tomorrow. I understood but I would have loved a hug from Gabi. To see my kids.

I ran my hands through my hair as I was watching film to see where things went wrong. To what I can improve upon for next year. I knew Mitchell was happy with our performance this year, but I knew he wanted better next year. The pressure of performing as a coach was always going to be high. "Stop," Jesse took the iPad from me. "Stop obsessing. It's over and you did great. We all did great." I didn't fight Jesse too much as I just sighed, "I just wish I know what I could do better. Did I call the wrong plays? We were not prepared. Was the beach too much?"

Dylan snorted, "If we don't go to the beach then what the hell are those kids doing? Nothing good. It was an organized activity between basketball schedules. Stop stressing. Mitch already told us he was happy with our year, and he couldn't have asked for anything better." I just sighed, "That doesn't take it away from them. They deserved a good end,"

"And they did. They went farther than last year." I just nodded as I knew I just needed some sleep and some time with my kids and my wife. "Golf later this week?" Jax asked and we all agreed. We had to do exit interviews and then do our own exit interviews with the AD. I rolled my lips together as I couldn't wait to be home. The bus felt like it was taking forever as we eventually pulled into the school. The guys got off the bus first and the coaches behind as we just tossed everything in our offices to deal with on Monday. I grabbed my travel bag and my suit bag before slinging my backpack over my shoulder. "See ya," I waved to the guys, and they all nodded as I got into my car.

I knew all of my people were going to be asleep but at least I could snuggle up with Gabi.

Parking my car and shutting it off I took a deep breath as I reminded myself that I met all expectations this year. My own damn goal was five-hundred and we finished five games above. We did good. Next year – I wanted more but I knew how to coach basketball and I knew how to coach college basketball. I slipped out of my car, and I headed inside as there was a note on the counter. I smiled. We love you, daddy! We are so proud of you! I blinked back a few tears as their handprints were on it and then a pair of lips from Gabi. I shook my head as I exhaled. Gabi was proud and that was all I could ask for.

I went upstairs and I was quickly surprised to find Gabi sitting up on her phone, "Hi," she looked up and smiled, "Hi," she dropped her phone and got up onto her knees. "Why are you still awake?" I asked her and I hugged her tightly and kissed the top of her head. "Mostly because I knew you were going to need that and honestly – I just finished not that long ago putting everything away and making sure we were set for morning time." I smiled as I kissed her, and she smiled. "You had a fantastic season and I really hope you believe that."

I nodded, "I do. I just wish we could have gone a little deeper." A smile pressed onto her lips as I exhaled, "Go change and then we can lay in bed together." I nodded as I went to take a quick shower, change, and head back to bed. I crawled in next to her as I pulled her back against me. I breathed in her scent, "Were the kids good on the drive home?" I asked her and she nodded her head, "Yea, they really were. They played the first half and then passed out. I was glad I put them in their PJs because they both passed out and when I carried them inside, they never woke up. They went to bed at a normal time so unfortunately for us they will still wake up at their normal time."

I groaned and Gabi laughed as she squeezed my arm. "I know, I will get up with them. Get some rest. It's been a long season."

"For you and me. I will get up, too." Gabi twisted to face me, and we both shared a smile together. "I love you, thank you for everything this season and giving this a shot with me."

"Always," she whispered to me. "I am so glad we took this chance."

My heart squeezed as I kissed the back of her head. My hand found her belly as our little man kicked. "He already loves you," I laughed, and I could feel her starting to fall asleep. I knew I would get up before her because it had been a long season for me, but it had been longer for her. For that – I owed her some time to herself. No twins present. I owed her a date. I owed her a trip just the two of us before this next baby arrived. I owed time with my kids. It would be like this. I was busy but when I wasn't I had to be present with my family.

Gabi didn't think I could go to Wyoming, but I booked the ticket not too long ago. I couldn't wait to go up there again with the kids and Gabi. It was going to be fun, and I knew it was going to be good for us. I kissed her head one more time and then I let myself go to sleep because the twins were going to be up sooner than any of us wanted.


Sunday, March 6th, 2022

Gabi's POV

I woke up to no husband and already fed kids. I shook my head at Troy, and he just sent me a wink. The man was always trying to woo me still and I honestly loved it. The boys were all taking the kids today as we were celebrating Lennon. We had her family down here, some of her friends from back home, and all of us here. It was a pretty in pink baby shower for their little girl. Her mom was throwing this shower with her aunt, so I just sat back and enjoyed. My hand resting on my belly as Sage and Sara sat with me.

"Lennon is going to be such a great mom," I smiled with a nod, "She is. Plus, Cameron will be a great dad. Honestly, all of them are great dads or will be great dads." A smile etched on Sage's face with a nod, "They really are a great group. They took this challenge of this year with their new job and flourished. Jesse never made it seem like that was more important, either. He balanced both really well." I nodded with a tiny smile, "Troy was the same way. The moment he was home – he was home. Sometimes he had a few things here or there but for the most part. Work was at work. Were there late nights? Long weekends? Of course, but I think they all did well."

Sara grinned, "Jax loved every minute of this season. He said Troy was so hard on himself coming home yesterday." I sighed as I really hadn't talk to him too much since. "I was hoping he didn't. He was a little sad coming home last night and we only really got to talk last night but I was hoping he wasn't beating himself up." Sage gave a soft smile, "That man just wants to do well, and they did do well. I think they are going to be even better next year." I agreed with her as Josie joined our table. She was late because of Dylan and her doing some last-minute wedding stuff.

We caught up and it wasn't long before we were playing the baby games and opening presents. Our baby boy was kicking as I rubbed my belly right over where his feet were pressing into me. "Is he moving?" Sage asked and I nodded as I let her feel. She smiled, "Is it different only having one?" I nodded with a laugh, "Yea, it really is. My bump isn't nearly as big, I feel a lot better, and he seems to sleep a bit more than his siblings. I swear, if one of them was sleeping the other was awake." Josie laughed, "I can't wait to have a baby. Dylan wants to wait at least a year, but I have a sneaking suspicion that is due to a bet." We all laughed, "He is going to be a great dad," Sage said, and we all nodded.

"Dylan loves all of these kids and once you two are married he will fold. I promise." Sara told her and she laughed as her cheeks tinted red. Lennon was glowing with happiness as I got up as I needed to head home soon. I wanted to spend some time with Troy while the twins napped. "Len, I am about to head home. I hope you feel so loved." I told her and she gave me the biggest grin and had tears in her eyes. "This was amazing. I am so thankful all of you were here." She hugged me and I hugged her back. "I cannot wait to meet this little lady."

"I cannot wait to meet her boyfriend!" I laughed as we took a quick picture together and I bid her good-bye and waved to the other ladies. "Where are you off too?" Sage asked and I smirked, "Nap time is only so long." They all laughed, and I couldn't help but smile as I headed to my car. The drive was pretty quick as nothing was too far in this town and I walked in as Troy was watching TV on the couch. Or more like watching the back of his eyelids. I smiled as I dropped my bag, and I kicked off my shoes before walking over to him.

I quietly climbed onto his lap as I let both knees fall on either side of his body and the moment my knees hit the side – his eyes flashed open. I grinned at him as he smiled, "What are you doing home already?" I laughed as I leaned forward to steal a kiss. "The party was starting to wrap up as all of the gifts and games were done. I told them that nap time was only so long these days." Troy laughed as he opened his wider and gave me another smile. His hands found my legs as I wore a dress to the baby shower, and he slid up my bare thighs before coming to my bare booty.

He closed his eyes and groaned, "No underwear, Brie?" I laughed, "Nope. Uncomfy." Troy chuckled as he sat up and I found his mouth. He moved further up my body until the dress was practically off my body. He pushed it up and over before his mouth was back on me. I rolled my hips back over him as he groaned, "I miss you," I murmured as I trailed my lips over his collar bone, over his sternum, and then to his other collarbone. "You miss me?" his own lips remaining busy on my hot skin, and I nodded, "When is the last time we did this?"

He didn't answer because I don't know if I knew the answer to the question. He easily lifted me up and carried me upstairs. He shut the door with his foot, "How long have the kids been sleeping?"

"Thirty minutes, we have at least thirty more." He reassured me and I nodded with a smile as he pulled me back into his lap but in a more comfortable position with his back against the headboard. He ditched his shorts and underwear as he tossed them on the floor as I gave him a grin before I bent over to wrap my mouth around him. "Fuck, Gabriella," I knew I took him by surprise as I worked him. His fingers gripped into my hair before he yanked me off. "Enough of that," I laughed as it had been too long if he didn't want to finish with me going down on him.

His mouth locked with mine as his fingers gripped my hips and he pulled me down onto him almost too slowly. I felt my lips part as it felt so fucking good. Once I was seated in his lap he tilted his head back, "I love you," I smiled as I kissed him to make him quiet which only caused him to laugh. "I love you," I whispered to him, and he moved me, and I let him. I started to take over while he worked my body. There was no part untouched as we took our time for the first time in what feels like forever. Both of us taking our time. Both of us making sure we knew that the other needed each other.

"Fuck, Gabs," he groaned as I knew that was my sign to let go. I let my body fall against his and he groaned as he pumped into me a few more times before he came. "Oh god, I missed you, too baby girl," he kissed me softly and I hugged him. My body wrapped around him. Luckily, my baby bump was still small, and it wasn't in the way even as we edged toward thirty weeks which was a blessing. His arms hugged me in tighter as neither of us spoke for the longest time. We just held each other. His thumb stroking my back My fingers found his hair.

"More of this," I murmured to him, and he nodded with a smile, "Always." I lifted my head, but I wasn't ready to let go. I just slid down and he wrapped me up in his arms as we laid back to front. He kissed the back of my head as I let my eyes shut for a moment and I didn't open them until I felt Troy moving from behind me. "Where are you going?" I whispered and he laughed, "Sutty is awake. Take a nap." He kissed my temple, and I shook my head, "I love our kids, but I want to cuddle with my husband." His chuckle was deep. "As soon as those littles go to bed we will get back in our bed, yea?" I turned to face him as his eyes surveyed my face as I tried to cool my emotions. Sutton cried out again and Troy glanced over his shoulder before he dropped a kiss to my neck.

"Stay here, okay?" I just nodded as he left and went to get Sutton. I blinked away the tears in my eyes. I wasn't sure what about pregnancy made me needy or was the basketball season that was just a lot? I wasn't sure but just having these quiet moments between us were not enough. I laid there for another fifteen minutes before I started to get up when Troy appeared back through the bedroom door. "Hey, I told you to stay."

"I can't sleep anyways; I might as well get up and come see my babies." Troy shook his head, "Lay down, Brie." He stared at me, and I huffed as I did as ask of me. I closed my eyes for a moment before I opened them and then I felt Troy's contact against my back. "Troy," he kissed my head, "Shh…I called an audible. Clearly, my wife needs some of my time and luckily, we have really cool neighbors who also have kids. I bought us an hour or so." That cued the waterworks, and I couldn't stop them if I freaking tried.

"Hey, hey," his voice was soft, and I shook my head, "I'm sorry,"

"Whoa, no apologizing. So, what if you want a little extra time. We have the means to get a little extra time. It just took a pack of beer and a promise to take Noah for a date night for them later this week. Jesse and Sage both understand. So, nap time with my wife? Done." I rolled over to press my face into his chest and he wrapped around me. "I love you, Gabs. I will do everything I can, and it's been a long couple of months." I kissed his chest, and he kissed my head as this time I did fall asleep tucked up against him.


Troy's POV

I went back to Jesse's house, and he smirked up at me, "Naptime?" I laughed, "Actually, yes. That was naptime. We had fun prior to the kids waking up." I started but Sutton caught sight of me, and he came running over. "Hi buddy, did you have fun?" he nodded as he was sweaty from playing on this nice day. "She got really sad when I got up to see Sutton when I woke up. Like tears were almost instant as we were just laying with each other, talking, laying, and I think she was almost asleep and honestly Jes, I can't tell you the last time we got that together. So, I understood where the emotion came from. She was just sad that it was over and fuck, I know I owe her some time."

Jesse nodded in understanding, "Yea, I felt that. The kids were great besides being tired from waking up from their nap. Ate a snack." I thanked him as Saylor was still playing with Noah. "Thank you, she's still sleeping, and I do think she needed it. On both fronts – time with me and a nap. She's been doing so much lately is almost thirty weeks pregnant. She's a saint." Jesse smiled, "That she is. I'm glad I could help. We were also just waking up from a nap. Thanks for the beer and we will set a date before you guys fly out to Wyoming." I nodded, "Perfect. She still doesn't know I am going."

Jesse laughed, "Are you just going to get on the plane with her?"

"Might," I teased as Saylor caught me and she came over to join her brother. I kissed on her head as she was showing me a toy. "Yea? That is pretty cool." I told her and she gave me the world's biggest grin. I tapped her cheek and she just giggled before running back to be with Noah. "Sutty, do you want to go play?" I asked him and he nodded as he got down and went running over to the kids. I grabbed a beer that I brought over as I sat by Jesse. He smiled, "You doing better today?" Jesse asked and I sighed, "Yea, I am. I just think I we had what we wanted, and I wanted to prove that I could do more."

Jesse gave me a half look of crazy, "Troy, we all set a goal as a group at the beginning of the year to go five hundred. That's all we wanted and anything beyond that was fucking fantastic. We did that and we went above that. We won a game in the tournament. We had a really good recruiting class that other college coaches are jealous of. What more could you have asked for our very first year?" I shrugged as I rolled the beer between my hands. "I think just maybe getting to the championship game,"

"And then what? You would be upset if we lost because then we lose a bid to the tournament." I swallowed because he wasn't wrong. "I think this was the right spot for us. We won a game. We looked great in the game we lost we were just a little unlucky. I think you are going to have to let this go. You succeeded and you are going to have a failing season. You have to be ready for that." I just nodded, "I do think it's just this first season. I don't know. We'll see. I think there is a part of me that is guilty because I moved my kids and family here. I need it to be worth it and I need to be good enough."

"And you were," Jesse argued with me, and I didn't fight him. "It's hard to admit when you could have won another game." Jesse had nothing to add to that and he just nodded, "Fair but I think you set the goal and you go with it. Let it go. We have another year. We got the raise. Mitch is happy. The kids like us. Let's ride this out and see what happens." I nodded and smiled, "It was a fun season." Jesse laughed, "You're right. It was a fun season and that is what we hold on to. Plus, I do believe our wives like it here." I nodded, "Yea, I think so."

He squeezed my shoulder, and we watched the kids play together. I checked my watch as I knew I needed to get the kids home and get them ready for dinner. I finished off my beer as Jesse greeted Noah for something. I scooped up both my kids, "Say bye to Noah," Sutton and Saylor waved good-bye, and I smiled, "See ya later, Jes. Thanks for the pep talk and thank you for watching them for a bit." Jesse smiled, "Of course." I waved as I headed back to the house as Gabi was doing dishes when I walked in. "Hi, sorry, they were still playing." Gabi looked up with a smile as Sutton and Saylor screeched for her.

She shut the water off and wiped her hands as I sat them on the counter, and she talked to each of them. She looked better and I kissed the back of her head, "Did you get some rest?" she nodded, "I did. Thank you, Troy. I…" she paused as she thought about it for a moment, and I rubbed her arms. "Do not thank me. I owe you a lot and if you wanted to lay together, we do." I paused and I pressed my lips into her hair. "I'm going to Wyoming with you." She reared back and almost hit my chin as I couldn't stop my laugh.

"You are?" I nodded with a smiled, "I moved a couple of meetings, and I can go. I want to go. I want you to enjoy time with your sister. I will keep the kids busy with Colt." She looked at the kids before helping them both down and then she was hugging me again. Apparently, I was doing the bare minimum lately. I kissed her head, "I love you, baby."

"Thank you, I really wanted you to come."

"I know you did. That's why I moved things around. Plus, you are getting to your pregnancy point where I don't think I want you traveling that far without me." Gabi laughed, "Fair." She reached up to kiss me and I kissed her right back. "Thank you for noticing when I need you." I squeezed her, "Always, baby."


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Next update: (CONFIRMED): August 18th