Chapter 29 – Baby Boom

Wednesday, March 30th, 2022

30 Weeks Pregnant

Troy's POV

Saylor and Sutton were running around the backyard with Luna on this really nice day. Gabi was off at the spa with Lennon, Sage, Sara, and Josie. They were getting pampered and having fun together while the rest of us were on kid duty. I didn't mind it though because during nap time I was able to clean up the house for Gabi, we went to the grocery store, and now we were playing outside waiting for mom to get home. I couldn't believe we were only about two months out from meeting Cal which was mind blowing to me.

I feel like Gabi just told me she was pregnant, but I think time was flying a little bit faster with my job and chasing these two around. I blew on the bubbles as they went blowing off causing Sutton to squeal with happiness. I smiled shaking my head as I watched him run and play. Saylor came up and reached up for me, "How about we play?" I arched an eyebrow towards her as she stomped, "No, play!" I shook my head as I sat down, and she wiggled her way back into my body. I showed her how to blow the bubbles and she did.

"Good job, Saylor," she grinned up at me as I smiled down at her. I checked my watch to see it was just after four and I knew I needed to get dinner started. "Sutton, c'mon buddy, we need to go start dinner." Sutton grinned up at me and I gave him my free hand as I carried Saylor with the other arm. Luna followed behind us as we went up the steps. She nudged on Sutton, and I caught up as he almost tripped, "Luna," I scolded softly because I knew she was probably hot and wanted inside but she had to be patient. Sutton cried and I shook my head before picking him up too. I got them both inside and playing in the living room.

I went to stand up when Sutton cried this time reaching for me. I sighed heavily; I really, truly do not understand how Gabi gets anything done with these two. "Buddy, I have to cook dinner. Look, you can play with your cars." I rolled his car up his body and over his tummy which caused him to laugh. Sutton took the car, and he ran it over the living room and over the couch. Saylor was playing with her toys as I got up and headed to the kitchen. I began to pull out everything to make tacos. Luna laid under my feet while I prepped everything.

My eyes glancing up every few moments to look at the kids. I knew once the baby came, I was mostly going to be on twin duty. Plus, everything else duty while Gabi rested with Cal. I was honestly looking forward to spending that time with our kids. To get to be the person they turn to for a little bit. Gabi was going back to South Carolina this weekend for some dance stuff, but I was keeping the kids. She asked about 100 times if I was sure, and I was. I wanted to keep them and have a weekend with them. I was jealous that Gabi got them all the time.

The door clicked shut quietly and I peeked up to see Gabi, I smiled as I checked on the meat cooking in front of me and then I peeked at the kids as I went around and greeted her. She stayed hidden and I can a smile as I pulled her into my body, "Have a good day?" I said quietly and she nodded as I kissed the top of her head. "I did. I had a really good day, actually. Thank you for organizing all of that." I smiled as I tipped her chin backwards and laid a soft kiss on her. Those lips turned upwards, and she peeked over the corner, "Are they playing?" I nodded my head.

"That they are – also how in the world do you get anything done all day?" Gabi just let out a laugh that definitely got the kids attention. "I don't. Remember that." I just rolled my eyes with a smile playing at the corners as I heard one of them running across the floor. "Mama!" Gabi grinned as she moved around me to reach Saylor. "Hi big girl!" Gabi picked her up and I sighed, "Gabs,"

"Do not, I can pick them up. Just because I have a baby brewing," I shook my head with a smile as I finished dinner while Gabi hugged on her babies. She got their dinner out, just left over from school lunch, to add to their dinner. I put some tortillas, cheese, meat, and diced tomatoes on their plates as I took them over. "Their water is sitting on the counter," Gabi nodded as she went to get them while I buckled both into the highchairs. I sat their plates in front of them while adding other things for them to eat. I put Luna outside so the kids didn't feed her the entire time.

Gabi was making her plate as I made my own right behind her before joining the kids at the table. It was objectively some of my favorite moments when we were just doing the normal things together. Making dinner, eating dinner, and knowing that after this we had just enough daylight to go back outside and let the kids play for a bit longer. "Thanks for making dinner," Gabi said after taking a bite, "Sorry I picked something easy," Gabi rolled her eyes, "And half the time I order take-out. We do what we can. Are you still sure you don't want me to take the kids this weekend?"

A chuckle left my mouth, "Of course, Brie, I want to spend the weekend with them. If they went with you, they would be with my parents a lot anyways. I want to hang out with them." Gabi gave me a bit of a look, "What? Don't think I can do it?" I initially teased but the thought was unsettled, and Gabi quickly shook her head. "No, that is not at ALL what was I thinking. Please don't think that." I took a bite and I shrugged, "You just keep asking. I don't know what else you want me to think." Gabi sighed, "I just…you haven't had the kids for a whole weekend in a while." She pointed out, "It can be a lot and you…" she stopped and shook her head.

"Never mind, I just want to make sure." She said and I blinked turning my head to face her, "Gabi, say it." Gabi shook her head, "No, I'm not going to say it because I don't want you taking it the wrong way. Yes, I get more time with them but that doesn't make you any less. It shouldn't mean anything, and I should just stop asking." Gabi focused on her dinner as she took a few bites. "Is it because I said how do you get anything done?" she didn't respond, and I just exhaled heavily as I finished my own dinner. Neither of us spoke through the rest of dinner. The kids chatted away and Gabi interacted with them but neither of us spoke to each other.

The ache in my chest settled in and I wasn't sure what from – the fact my wife isn't sure I can handle my two kids for an entire weekend or that I let her ever think that. I washed the dishes and packed the away the food. Making myself some lunches for the rest of this week. Gabi got the kids washed off and taken outside. Once the door shut, I exhaled and tilted my head up towards the ceiling. I hated fighting with her, and I know she stopped it before it could get any further into a fight. I finished cleaning up and then got their bath time stuff ready before going outside to join them.

Gabi was sitting on the front porch step as Noah was outside as the kids were all playing together. Sage and Noah were both talking in their driveway as I eased down next to Gabi. "I'm sorry," she said quietly. Her voice barely audible and I knew based on the little quiver that if she spoke much louder, she would probably cry. "I never want you to think that I don't think you can do it. Because I know you can. You are an amazing dad to them, and I am so appreciative of you for how great of a father that you are. You're present, you pick them up, they love you, you play with them. I know you can do it and I don't know if it's just the nerves because I don't get to be with them even though I would rather leave them with you than anybody else."

She sniffled as I glanced over to see a few tears rolling down her face, I tugged her into my side as she came willingly. Her face pressed into my chest as I rubbed her back. My eyes staying on the three kids in the middle of the yard. "It's okay, Brie, I…I overreacted a little bit. I know I haven't had just them by myself in a long time and fuck are they busy. I don't know how you do it all the time and I think that's one of the reasons I know I can do it because you do it. It might be messier, not as easy, or as graceful but I can do it."

"I know, I think it really is just sadness that I don't get to be with my family all weekend. I love Zoey's but I love all of you more." I kissed her head because I did wonder if it was her trying to get us to either come or for me asking her to stay. I would never do that though – ask her to stay. "I think a weekend by yourself will be good for you." I said gently, "We are only about 9 weeks out from having our third kid. When is the last time you got to just – sleep?" I asked her and she gave a tiny smile, "Besides our babymoon?" I chuckled, "Just you, no me, including. I can be needy, too." Gabi just laughed as she wiped at her face again but then curled back in further to me.

"I think it's also good because when the baby comes, I'll be spending a lot more time with them. You need to focus on you and the baby. I will have those two little monsters." Gabi just smiled as she watched them play in front of the house. I let my hand wonder on her belly as Cal appeared to be resting himself at the moment. "You are the best dad and please don't let my anxiety let you think otherwise."

"It's okay, Brie, I understand. I love you," she let out a heavy sigh but gave a tiny smile, "I love you, too." I just hugged on her as we let them play for an extra fifteen minutes. I waved to Jesse, and he nodded back as Sage was sitting next to him. Once it was time for bed, I went to wrangle the two kids. "Gabs, the stuff is all set out. I can do bath time if you want." She just gave a smile, "How about together? I want to be with all of you." I just smiled with a tiny nod as I went to pick up both of them. "You guys, okay?" Jesse asked as he was picking up Noah.

I nodded, "Yea, just a little tiff. She keeps asking if I am okay at home with these two for the weekend. I got a bit annoyed because it just sounds like she doesn't trust me with them." I said with a tiny shrug, "But we shut it down before it escalated, and she explained while we were sitting out here. I think it's partially pregnancy hormones and partially she doesn't want to go without us." Jesse smiled, "Good, we were going to come over and hang but saw both of you and knew it maybe wasn't the night." I chuckled, "Appreciate it, man." I gave him a fist bump before wrangling my two screaming children inside with a wave to my best friends.

"C'mon, you two, bath time."


Saturday, April 2nd, 2022

31 Weeks Pregnant

Gabi's POV

It was late and I was still at Zoey's, and I knew Troy Bolton was not going to be happy. We had a dance competition all day today and I needed to do some maintenance at Zoey's. It was taking longer than I wanted but I wanted to finish it so I could leave early tomorrow. I missed my kids. I missed my husband. I hated these weekends without them, and I hated even more than I ever doubted Troy Bolton. He is such a good dad. He took them to the wildlife park in Savannah with Jesse. Sage didn't even go – it was just two dads and three kids.

All the pictures looked like they had an absolute blast. Saylor was really into animals right now and I knew she probably loved every single minute of it. Tomorrow, he said they had no plans but to hang out at home. Jacy and Kaden also had their son today. She was induced yesterday morning and it was a long day for the both of them, but Hunter James ended up making his debut early this morning. Kaden had been texting Troy and I all day of updates and baby pictures. He was quite adorable, and I kept telling him that he was doing amazing.

Troy and I planned to bring dinner to their apartment the night they got home. We were all going to rotate through their apartment with meals and making sure they were both getting some sleep. They didn't have much help and we wanted to be there as much as we could in these early days. They were most likely being released Monday morning per Kaden. I stuffed a folder away and when my phone rang, I wasn't shocked to see Troy facetiming me. I picked it up and I set it upright as I slid it over as Saylor and Sutton filled my screen.

"Mama!" they both screeched together. Nothing made my heart warmer than those two little voices. "Hi sweet babies!" they both were reaching for Troy's phone as I giggled watching them. "Saylor, did you see animals today?" she broke out into a huge grin with all those teeth. "Yea!" I laughed, "Yea? Which was your favorite?" I asked her and she thought about it for only a moment. "big witty – rawww," Troy and I both laughed at her as Sutton watched his sister. "Sutty, what was your favorite?" Sutton thought about it a little longer but grinned, "Bird! It wanded on dada!" I raised an eyebrow as Troy laughed.

"It was something you walked through. The birds were flying above us, and it landed on my shoulder. Sutton thought it was funny." I smiled as Troy was sitting in their room as they had their PJs on and were cuddled up with their dad. "I'm jealous,"

"Maybe we can drive up to Atlanta later this month before it gets too warm and go to the real zoo." I smiled with a nod, "That would be a lot of fun. We'll have to invite Jesse, Sage, and Noah." Troy agreed as I talked to the kids about what else they did today I want to know everything. Once they were both pretty tired Troy lifted the phone to his face. "Don't you dare think I don't know where you are. Please leave soon." I just nodded, "I know. I am working on it. I want to leave here early tomorrow. I have a dance and sing class in the morning, and I want to leave right after it."

Troy nodded, "I know but I also need you safe."

I gave a tiny smile towards him, "I know. I promise. I literally have one more thing to do and I will call you the moment I am walking out of here." Troy just nodded, "I am going to put these kiddos to bed. I'll talk to you in a bit." I just gave a nod as I hung up and finished what I needed to do. I wrote a few emails and made a registration form before sending that to be approved. I logged off, shut down the building, and I called Troy. "Okay, I have my bags," Troy laughed, "Good." I juggled everything while I made my way out to the parking lot.

I turned the alarm on and unlocked my car, once I slid in, I locked my doors, "Okay, I'm in my car." Troy audible exhaled, "Good. Now, drive back to my parents' house and get some sleep."

"Your mom is making me breakfast in the morning," Troy groaned, "I miss her breakfast."

"How were the kids?"

"Good, they loved it. I am thinking maybe…after your appointment making sure you aren't having a baby soon; we can go up to Atlanta. Make a weekend of it with the kids."

"Plus going to Clearwater with them in May?"

"Yea, why not? It's the last time it will just be the two of them." I smiled because I did love all the family time that we were doing. "Yea let's do it. So, April 15-17? I fly out on the 18th to go be with Beth. They are being induced on the 19th." Troy agreed with the dates as I knew he was sending it to his friends. "It will be fun." Cal moved around in my stomach, and I groaned as he pressed into my ribs. "You good?"

I sighed, "Yea, your son is just digging around in my ribs." Troy grunted, "That sounds terrible. Only a handful more weeks."

"He better stay put."

Troy laughed as we talked the entire drive to his parents' house. I parked, "Okay, baby, I am at your parents' house. I will talk to you and the kids in the morning. I do plan on getting out of here right at noon tomorrow. I want to spend all evening with you guys."

"We will make it happen. You are still good to go see Kaden and Jacy on Monday?"

"Of course, I cannot wait to snuggle that sweet baby." Troy chuckled, "Soon enough you'll have your own to snuggle again." I nodded as I bid him my love before I slipped out of the car and headed inside. Tommy was still awake watching TV and I waved to him, "My son had me waiting for you," I rolled my eyes, "I think he forgets I am a grown woman." Tommy laughed, "He cares about you plus being pregnant brings out something different in us men." I just laughed while I put my stuff away and thanked him. I went up to bed, go ready, and I passed out.


Monday, April 4th, 2022

Troy's POV

I carried the chicken Alfredo Gabi made up to Kaden and Jacy's apartment door. She had a gift for them, and we made dinner as they had gotten home earlier this morning. Gabi knocked quietly before the door opened up as Kaden smiled. He was wearing a SGU t-shirt with what appeared to be spit-up on. I smiled because initiation. Gabi pulled him into a big hug, "He is so handsome," Kaden laughed as I gave him a smile. "C'mon," he led us in as I heard the shower running. "Jacy is taking a shower. She felt gross and I told her I can watch him sleep."

I grinned over at Kaden because I gave him a few rules to rule with throughout the first few weeks. Make sure she gets some sleep – get up with the baby in the middle of the night and help her and let her take showers. Let her get ready and feel like herself. I also told him to get out of the house. Those were a few things I picked up quickly with Gabi and being home with the twins. Hopefully it would work well with Kaden, too. "Good, she probably will feel a lot better after the shower." Kaden nodded as I took the pasta to his counter and Gabi was setting down the gift.

Their apartment was small, but it was two bedrooms and had all the essentials plus it was in a decent area. A coo came from the swing and Gabi turned to smile walking over to the swing. "Oh god, Kaden," Kaden just laughed as he gave a smile as Gabi scooped him up after putting hand sanitizer on her hands. "How big was he again?"

"7lb 10oz," Gabi gushed as she cradled him over her bump. He was swaddled and barely awake as I went over to Kaden, "How are you doing?" I asked him and he shrugged, "Tired but to be expected. I am planning on letting Jacy sleep for a while tonight while I am on Hunter duty." I nodded, "Good but make sure you also get sleep, but she needs more, ya hear?" Kaden laughed with a nod of his head. "Did you tell your parents?" I asked as Gabi was on full Hunter duty at the moment which gave me a moment with Kaden. Kaden let out a really heavy sigh, "Kaden,"

I saw the moment it hit him, and he swallowed, "I sent them a picture, but they didn't respond." I wrapped him up in a hug, "You were actually the first to respond." I smiled, "Good. I'll take it. I will always respond, yea?" he nodded as he wiped at his face. It wasn't long before Jacy came out of the bathroom as she was in probably one of Kaden's shirts with a pair of shorts. "Hi guys," she waved and smiled as she looked good. "Jacy, he's beautiful," Gabi was still mesmerized by him, and I am pretty sure if it wasn't for her being 31 weeks pregnant, she would want to be pregnant.

"Thank you, I am pretty biased." Gabi smiled at her as they both talked baby. I made sure their food was warm and Kaden came in to help. "Both of you, eat. We can distract him long enough." Jacy and Kaden both thanked us as I sat next to Gabi, "God, I am glad you are pregnant because I am pretty sure you'd be begging for number three after this." Gabi laughed with a tiny nod, "Yea, he's pretty cute." I glanced down at him as he was pretty damn cute. His face had full cheeks and a small nose. His lips were pouty, and I knew he was going to be cute damn kid.

"How was everything in the hospital?" Gabi asked and Jacy nodded, "It was good. I am so glad Kaden was there. I truly don't think I could have don't it without him. He was by my side with everything and then it was just a few friends after he was born. I think I liked it though." Gabi nodded, "Well now you have a whole slew of people ready to be there for you when you need us. Do not hesitate to call any of the coaches," Gabi said, and I nodded to reinforce it. "Please, don't, we want to be there for you and having a baby is hard. Make sure you have date nights, napping dates, whatever you need."

"Thank you, guys, for everything, really." Kaden said and I nodded, "Wouldn't have it any other way." I took a turn holding Hunter as Jacy had some questions. Gabi walked her through some steps and explained things to her that she needed. Kaden sat closer to me as he stared at his son. "Does it ever go away looking at them and being amazed they are real?" I shook my head with a smile as we both stared at Hunter. "No, the bigger they get the more surreal it gets. I still look at Saylor and Sutton and can't believe they are mine sometimes. I love them a lot,"

"Yea, I couldn't stop staring at him last night while Jacy was sleeping. I was just holding him, and I cried. Mostly because I had texted my parents with no response and because he is pretty freaking cool. He's going to be everything, and I think it really sank in that I would absolutely never do that to him. Turn my back and act like I didn't exist." I let Kaden talk through his feelings for a moment as he sighed a bit frustrated, "Kaden, I think you said everything you should say to your parents. You showed them this precious gift and after that – let it go. I know it'll sting but now you have your own kid. And he is going to have so many people in his life that love him."

Kaden nodded as he looked at Hunter with a smile, "Yea, you're right. Thank you – for everything you have done for me and for my family. I uh…I was so rude to you at the beginning of the year." I couldn't stop my laugh, "It's okay. I promise. You had a lot going on and I think you needed something like us to come into your life." Kaden nodded his head slowly, "I started to realize that myself. If you wouldn't have come here, then maybe everything would be so different. I love Coach Ham but you having young kids was helpful."

"Coach Ham said he was going to come by later this week to see you. One of us will be bringing dinner every single night. Making sure you both eat. If you guys need a break to just get a nap – call one of us. We'll get somebody here to help you. Sleep is important for all three of you. Eating and drinking water. Take care of yourselves." Kaden nodded as Hunter wiggled around and let out a little cry. Gabi and Jacy both turned their attention to us, and I smiled at Gabs. "Moms are a little freaky," Kaden said under his breath, and I couldn't help but laugh.

"He probably wants to eat," Jacy rolled on her feet for a moment as she glanced at Gabi nervous, "Did you breastfeed?" Gabi nodded, "For nearly 14 months," Jacy bit down on her lip, the nerves were palpable off her body at the moment "Do you need some help?" Gabi asked her gently and Jacy nodded her head, "C'mon, let's take this baby to your bed and I will answer any and all questions." Jacy took Hunter from me as they both went back to the bedroom. "She's been stressing about the breastfeeding," Kaden ran his hands through his hair, and I nodded. "It's stressful for them. Just be patient and Gabi, Sage, Sara all did breastfeed and are willing to help her. But remind her – fed is best. It's not easy."

"Might just put them all in a group chat," Kaden said, and I laughed, "If you need too – they are there for help. It does take a village to raise kids. Use it." Kaden nodded as we talked about the NBA and the upcoming finals. It was about thirty minutes later when Gabi and Jacy returned. Jacy had a big smile on her face and Gabi winked at me as Jacy sat with Kaden. "He ate so, so well. Gabi said that she will come over if we're having problems." Kaden grinned over at Jacy, "Good. Troy said Sage and Sara might also be able to help." Gabi nodded, "They will and would be just as helpful."

Jacy relaxed in the couch, "But remember Jacy – it's hard. Do not be hard on yourself. If you need formula, then use it." Jacy nodded as Gabi gave her a hug and then Kaden a hug. "We'll get out of your hair. Are the leftovers put away?" I nodded as I did that after they both ate. "Okay, please, text or call us if you need anything, okay?" they both agreed as we bid good-bye. I nodded towards Kaden and hopefully he understood that. We're here for him. Gabi and I left as she stopped to hug me, "You're such a good coach," she murmured, and I laughed, "What?"

"Jacy just kept talking about how much you have helped guide Kaden through this whole parent situation. Plus preparing him to be a dad and just being there for him. It goes way beyond coach but…you are amazing and that is the reason I should have never doubted you with our kids for a weekend. You are just a good person." I felt my cheeks flush, but she kissed me to distract me. "C'mon, I want ice cream." I just laughed as she skipped off to the car. I shook my head with a smile watching her go.


Sunday, April 10th, 2022

32 Weeks Pregnant

Gabi's POV

The nerves had really settled in with my pregnancy about going into labor early. I was almost the same exact gestation as I was with the twins, but I honestly still felt really good. I sometimes forgot I was pregnant as it was just the one sweet little man. Troy was out golfing with his friends, but it was just four of them today as Lennon was in labor. She went into labor really early this morning and they were all so excited for Cameron and Len. Noah had played with us this morning, but everybody went home for naptime. Saylor and Sutton were still sleeping as I was trying to get some work done for Zoey's.

I rubbed my eyes as I sent a text to Cameron asking how Lennon was doing before tucking my phone back away. I glanced down at my belly as it had been a lot of fun this past week in the house with Troy being around a lot more recently. I loved having him home and I knew we needed to cherish this time before long we would be back in the thick of basketball again. My hand fell to my stomach as I checked in with Beth to make sure she was doing okay as well. I finished my few things for Zoey's before doing a load of dishes and a load of laundry.

The door pushed open as Troy walked in with a smile on his face, "Hi, they still sleeping?" he stole a kiss walking past me and I nodded my head. "Yea, they've been asleep for almost two hours. I got some work done. Laundry done. Dishes done." Troy raised an eyebrow towards me as he grabbed water from the fridge. "Heard from Cameron?" he nodded, "Not that long ago. She's almost fully dilated and getting ready to push soon. They will have a baby today." I giggled with excitement over their little girl coming into the picture.

"Only one more baby before ours," Troy said with a wiggle of his eyebrows and I nodded, "Hopefully." I told him and he took a long drink before he sat the glass down. "What do you mean hopefully?" he asked me as he tugged my hand closer to him. "I mean next week will be 33 weeks and what if we have our baby then? What if he comes early, too?" the panic built, and Troy cupped my face and made me focus on him. "Gabi, hey, breathe," I tried to take a deep breath, but I just let out a cry. He scooped me in close to him, "Where did this come from?" he asked softly as I had been doing well with this.

"I think just the fact that we are closer and closer to the 33-week mark," I said as I pulled back to wipe at my face. Troy brushed some tears off as he was sitting on the counter with me in between his legs. "We see Dr. Johnson tomorrow. We can talk more about it with her, but you haven't even had a Braxton hicks' contraction." I nodded, "I know, I just…I can't do it again." His fingers snuck in my hair and pull me into him again. His lips pressing into my temple as he just held me. "If we have to do it? We do it together. I don't think we will. I think he is nice and comfy in there. We picked his birthday – remember? He's going to stick to it."

A snort left my mouth and Troy smiled, "He is, I talked him into it." I shook my head as Troy tipped my chin back and he kissed me softly. "I know it's scary, but we've got this. Regardless, we can do it." I took a deep breath as a little cry rang out, "Mama!" Troy glanced at the monitor and smiled, "Because you did it the first time – they are right here. I know you will have to go through more trauma, but he'll be bigger and he's going to thrive." I just nodded and he gave me another kiss before we both went to go check on the kids.

"I booked a hotel room this weekend. I think it's just going to be us, Jesse's family, and Jax's. Josie and Dylan are doing wedding stuff and clearly Lennon and Cam will be busy." I smiled with a nod, "Heard from Kaden today?" I asked opening the bedroom door and Troy nodded. "Yea, they are doing well. I told them somebody would be over tomorrow at some point since it's been a couple of days, but he said they wanted to get out of the house. Asked if they could come hang here." I smiled as Saylor reached for me, "Mama," I kissed on her, "Hi baby,"

"Then I suggested the park in the afternoon. I'm just working in the morning, and they agreed. I told them to just let me know what time works best for them."

"That'll be good. Our appointment is at 8." Troy nodded as he checked in on Sutton who was still sprawled over his crib. "Can we drive separate? I need to go to the office right after." I nodded, "Yea, that's fine. The kids are going to be with Josie." A nod from Troy as I changed Saylor's diaper, and we took her out to the living room. "You haven't been feeling anything? Right?" Troy asked as if he was replaying our conversation over in his head again. I shook my head, "No, I think just the week approaching. I will be happy to see week 34."

"I think it just makes it more real that he could come literally any day now." Troy mentioned and I nodded as we both played with Saylor for a bit. "When they get a little older – maybe 4-5 I think we should do one on one time with them." I mentioned watching Saylor. "I want to make sure they are their own person. Just because they have the same birthday doesn't mean they have to always be paired together." Troy nodded in agreement, "Day dates or something with them. Honestly, each kid should get one like twice a year. Maybe one in the summer and one after basketball season."

"So spring,"

"Right before school so the end of summer." Troy bargained and I just laughed as I kissed on Saylor. Saylor patted my belly, "Baby," I nodded with a smile, "Baby brother," she cocked her head to the side, "Baby budder?" I nodded my head for her, "Yea, can you say Cal?" I asked her and she gave a grin, "Cal!" Troy chuckled next to me as Callum kicked my belly. His phone pinged and he reached over as mine also went off. Troy grinned as he opened the message.

"Eden Clara is here!" he twisted to show me a picture of Lennon snuggled up with her baby girl. "What a pretty name," I said with a smile as I couldn't wait for that moment. For my baby to put on my chest. I knew it was going to be one that I would commit to memory forever. "That was quick, I love that for her," Troy smiled as he sent our love back and I shook my head. "Beth will be next week. It's all flying. I could have sworn we just found out about the job let alone their pregnancies." Troy smiled with a nod, "It's amazing. I love our expanding friend group."

I laughed as Saylor wrapped her arms around my neck and I loved on her.


Saturday, April 16th, 2022

Troy's POV

33 Weeks Pregnant

Sutton sat on my shoulders as we walked the Atlanta zoo together. He was having the best time spotting the animals and making their noises back to them. Gabi was taking so many videos and I knew she was soaking up all this time with them. Her appointment on Monday went really well. Dr. Johnson was happy with how she looked, how baby was looking, and Gabi did an NST with zero contractions and her exam looked unremarkable. Everything was sealed and nothing effaced. Dr. Johnson said it could all change overnight but no signs of early labor here.

I knew that probably took a breath off Gabi as Dr. Johnson gave her the clear to fly to Wyoming to be with her sister but after she got back flying was over. I wasn't joining her on this trip as I had some work obligations, so my parents were coming into town to spend time with Sutton and Saylor. Gabi talked about taking them with her, but I shot it down saying she was going to be in the hospital a lot with her sister. "Wion, RAW," Sutton repeated as we stopped in front of the lions. Jax laughed as Josie was almost 11 months old. She was clapping and happy as we were walking around.

We had all met Eden before leaving town and she was cute as a button. Lennon had some post birth complications that caused them to stay an extra day in the hospital, but all is better now. Gabi and Len talked a lot when we were over, and I loved that Gabi was a place of comfort for a lot of people. She was calm and real about situations. I loved that about her. "How many weeks left for you?" Jesse asked and I smiled, "Her scheduled c-section is May 30th. Six weeks from Monday." Jesse grinned, "It's going to fly with all your plans. Going to the beach with the kids. Gabi going to see her sister. Plus, just the normal chaos of kids." I nodded as I let Sutton down as he pressed his face to the glass to get a closer look at the lion.

Saylor joined him as Gabi was pushing the stroller with Sara. I twisted back as Gabi had her hand on her belly as they were both laughing about something. I needed to get her through this week, and I think she would relax a little bit. Every week we made it past 33 was a blessing. I just needed three weeks and I think she would be okay with that baby coming whenever. "Are all these babies giving Sage baby fever?" Jesse groaned as Jax laughed, "It's giving Sara baby fever," I just laughed while Jesse nodded, "She keeps bringing it up. I do fear that Gabi will put her over the edge."

"Two is fun," I said with a shrug, "I think three will be more fun," I joked and Jax shook his head. "I told Sara two and that's it."

"That's it? Where is the fun in that?" I asked him and he shook his head, "Trust me, you are still in the baby phase. They are so much fucking fun." I nudged towards Saylor and Sutton who were trading snacks even though it was the same exact snack. We moved to the reptile exhibit that was indoors. Gabi sat up front to get off her feet for a moment as I pointed out different things to the kids. "They are fun," Jesse added to my discussion, and I raised an eyebrow at Jax. "Yea, but they are also a lot of work." He swung Stella around which caused her to giggle.

"True but fun," I scooped up both my kids as I showed them a snake up top which caused both of them to squeal. "Shhhh," Saylor tried to pretend to be a snake and I just laughed as I kissed on both of them. We found spiders and other weird animals before finding Gabs at the front. "You feeling, okay?" I asked her and she nodded her head, "yea, just tired." She gave me a smile and I nodded, "We can leave soon. They could use probably a better nap than a 45-minute stroller nap." Gabi shook her head. "No, they will probably just go to bed early tonight. We can keep going. They are both having so much fun."

I eyed her for a moment before agreeing as we walked through another section of the park. The kids were loving it and each animal brought something different out of them. This was such a fun age and I suddenly wished we lived closer to a zoo so that we could do this more often. Saylor ended up on my shoulders and she giggled the entire time. Stella was back asleep in her stroller as Gabi and Sara stopped in the shade to let her rest while we found a playground to let the kids run on. "Gabi looks so good," Sage said, and I laughed, "She's tired if that makes you feel better."

"I bet. Those last few weeks are killer. She said six more weeks,"

I nodded, "Yea, she's ready but I think these next few weeks will be stressful. She wants to get to full term so she can do all the full-term things with the baby." Sage let her face fall a little, "Wait, oh god, she's been quiet, and I wondered why. It's the same week she had the twins." I nodded, "I keep trying to reassure her that this one isn't going anywhere but I know she just needs to get through it first." Sage nodded, "Yea, that explains a lot." Sage sighed heavily, "She'll make it. I think it's cute your kids will all be on the 30th." I smiled with a nod as I watched Saylor climbed up the stairs and Sutton went down the slide.

"Are you nervous to let her fly alone?"

I groaned, "Thankfully, she isn't flying alone. Her parents are flying out with her. She will fly back alone, and I will be an anxious mess the entire time." Jesse nodded, "I don't blame you there. I would be, too. She'll be 34 coming back though." I nodded as that was how I was going to get her through it. One day at a time. One week at a time.

Once Stella was up, we were on the move again and mostly finished the park. Once we made it back to the car Gabi sat in the back to keep the kids awake while we pulled into a pizza restaurant. We all climbed out and into the pizza place as there was a little game area for kids that kept the kids entertained to stay awake. I knew the moment they stopped moving they were going to fall asleep. I checked in with Kaden as they were adjusting well to be a family of three. I couldn't be prouder of him. Hunter was cute and they were getting by one day at a time.

We got together weekly if not twice a week to get them out of the house or to bring them food. Gabi was helping with breastfeeding still and it was getting better for them. The kids ate their pizza and the moment they were done they were done-done. The meltdowns were starting, and we all quickly cashed out taking our pizza to-go. Gabi kept them awake just long enough to get back to the hotel to bathe them quickly, put PJs on, and shut off the lights. They both passed out almost instantly in the bed as Gabi laughed sitting next to me in the dark as we both ate pizza.

"Best day," she whispered, and I gave a tiny smile, "Yea? Best day?" she nodded biting into the pizza. "Seeing them interact with all the animals, copying noises, and just giggling and smiling – it was worth it. Plus sitting here eating pizza with you in the dark as they both sleep? It's pretty fun." I smiled at her as I took a bite, but I pulled her feet into my lap. "I wouldn't want to do it with anybody else." I finished my food before I gave her feet a massage. "I love you," I told her. "It was a really good day. I know I'll remember this one." Gabi nodded with a smile in agreement.

"I will, too."

"I hope so. You have 200 videos." She giggled.

"I couldn't help it!" she whined, "They were both so cute." I just laughed as we shared a smile.


Wednesday, April 20th, 2022

Gabi's POV

I stared at my nephew as I had been with Beth the entire induction process. Colt and I were by her sides and cheering her on throughout the entire thing and she was a champion. She had him early this morning. Sawyer Colt was going to be the cutest little cowboy there ever was. He looked a lot like his dad, but I saw a lot of his mom in there, too. I was mesmerized by his face as Beth was taking a shower and Colt was out getting food leaving me time with my nephew. "Hi Sawyer, I'm your auntie Gabi," I murmured to him as I brushed my fingers over his smooth skin.

"We're going to be besties, don't you forget it, you're also going to be so close in age with your cousin. His name is Callum," A gasp erupted from the other side of the room, and I glanced up as Beth was standing there – freshly showered and looking more like herself with her own clothes on. "Callum?" Tears filled my eyes as I shrugged, "Yea, Callum Owen." Beth came over as the nurse who was helping her left the room as she sat next to me in the hospital bed.

"I love it, Gabs, that's so cute." I nodded as I leaned against Beth as we both stared at her baby. Then we were both crying together. No heavy sobs or anything, but just crying knowing that Zoey should be sitting in this bed with us. There should be the third sister sitting there and loving on Sawyer and gushing over baby names together. Colt walked in and he glanced between the two of us and I am pretty sure he just wanted to walk back out, but he braved up. "Hey, what's wrong? Or is this just a lot of hormones?"

Beth let her chin wobble and I bit down on my lip because it was Beth's day. "We weren't even talking. I think we both just wish Zoey was sitting here with us." Colt's face softened almost immediately, "You guys," Beth shook her head, "It's okay. It's just that deep feeling that you suddenly get that just doesn't go away until you cry it out." I nodded in agreement as I just stared at Sawyer. "She'd be so proud of you. Pushing him out in fifteen minutes," Beth just laughed, "You guys were the best cheerleaders, how could I not?" I laughed as I was jealous for the first time knowing that I was robbed of those moments.

I would never risk anything to do a VBAC. I didn't want to play with those risks, and I knew it was safer in the long run to just do another c-section, but it still hurt that I would never get those moments. Beth read my mind as she squeezed my leg, "You are a tough ass bitch for doing c-sections, Gabs. Do not think otherwise," Colt glanced between the two of us. "Beth, Gabi didn't say anything." Beth rolled her eyes at her fiancé, "She didn't need too. It was all over her face what she was thinking about. C'mon, Colt, we're sisters."

Colt scratched his face and shook his head knowing that he shouldn't ask any more questions. I just laughed, "Thanks," I told her with a tiny smile, and she nodded as took a picture with Sawyer. "I better get out of your hair. I need to call my husband and my kids before they go to bed. I'm also going to try and get some sleep, but my baby won't let me much these days." Beth grinned as she patted my belly, "Hi Callum, this is auntie Bethy," I laughed as Colt let his eyes bounce to mine. "Callum?" I nodded my head, "Yea, Troy and I decided not that long ago. It isn't a secret, secret but nobody has really asked so we haven't told."

Beth giggled, "I love it so much,"

"It fits," I gave Sawyer back to Beth and I hugged her so tightly afterwards, "I love you and I am so proud of you. Zoey would be so proud of you." She only squeezed me tighter in response. I hugged Colt and told them I would bring breakfast in the morning. I was staying until Saturday as they should go home Friday. I exited the hospital as I had been there for nearly twenty-four hours, but I wouldn't have traded it for anything. I got into Beth's car, and I called Troy on my way back to the farm. "Hey baby," I smiled, "Hi,"

"How is Sawyer?" I grinned, "So, so, good. Beth was amazing and I am so honored that I got to be there for her." Troy chuckled, "Good. I am actually still at the office." I sighed but I wasn't surprised because he had meetings all day today. "My mom said the babies were still awake though about twenty minutes ago. Do you want me to text her and tell her to wait on putting them to bed so you can talk to them?" I nodded, "Please, I would love that. I should be back at the farm in about fifteen minutes." Troy was typing and I heard the whoosh. "She got it. Are you feeling, okay?"

"Luckily, yes. I think we're going to see 34."

"Good. We better. Just think when you get back to me you will be 34 and then after that you'll be in Clearwater when you hit 35." I smiled just thinking about our family vacation. "I love you, Troy." He chuckled, "I love you, too. Colt texted me that he was mad that I left him with two hormonal women." I couldn't stop my laugh, "I don't think he was getting out of that cry session regardless. We were both just staring at Sawyer and then we were both crying because Zoey should have been squished on that bed with us – y'know?"

Troy cleared his throat, "Yea, that makes sense. She should have been, and she probably was. Right next to the both of you. Proud of the both of you." Tears welled in my eyes as I thought about it. "Probably," I croaked out and Troy cursed, "I didn't mean to make you cry." I shook my head, "No, I think it's the pregnant lady thing. I just…I know how proud she would be of the both of us."

Troy sighed softly, "She would. I didn't have to know her to know that much. She has some really cool sisters."

I smiled as I wiped away the tears at the stop light before turning into the farm. I parked the car and I sighed heavily, "The baby boom is over." I told him.

Troy chuckled, "Well…almost. One more."

I grinned.

"One more."


Happy Sunday! Only FIVE chapters left of this story! I know a lot of you love these characters and I thank you for that! I can say it's been hard to write them more recently but I cannot wait for you to finish this story with them!

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Next Update: September 29th