Chapter 13 – 3…2…1…

Monday, November 14th, 2022

Gabi's POV

The nurse withdrew the needle from my arm, and I zeroed in on the tube in front of her with the results of if I was pregnant or not. I felt numb these past ten days. "They will call with the results this afternoon," the nurse said with a kind smile, and I just nodded back because my tongue was sandpaper. Troy's hand gently squeezed my arm, and I swallowed as I looked over at him. Those blue eyes worried about me. I was so glad today he was home all day with me, and I was still toying with taking an at home pregnancy test now that the blood results were pending.

I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to answer that phone call with the unknown lingering on the other end.

At least this way – I would have my answer already. If my blood results were positive, I would be back on Wednesday for another to see if my levels doubled. The nerves were eating away at me as I gripped Troy's hand as we made our way out the back door. Troy paused and he pulled me into his arms in the worlds tightest hug. The hug that I truly needed. I breathed in his scent, and I took that comfort with me. Claire was still sleeping when we left, and Sophie was there hanging out with her as she was getting some schoolwork done. "Once Sophie leaves – I think I want to take a pregnancy test." I told him and Troy lifted an eyebrow as he looked over at me. "Are you sure?" I just nodded, "We will get the real results this afternoon but just the minor thought of having to answer that phone call makes my own anxiety higher."

I swallowed on the lump in my throat, "If it is negative – at least I already know, and I am not shocked by the phone call like I was last time. I want to do it with you though so maybe while Claire takes a nap?" I questioned and Troy gave a tiny smile. "We are doing whatever you want. Just know – I am here for you regardless." I gave him a smile as I looked over at him. "If it doesn't work – I am taking a break. Probably until we are back into off-season again." I watched him swallow and nod, "That is probably best for all of us. You'll need the break. I'll need the break."

Troy squeezed my hand, and I took comfort in his presence as this week had been long and hard to get through since our transfer, but I knew that we made it, and we would know officially by tonight. I was damn glad that he was here the entire week this time and it made it a little easier. I exhaled as we made it back home as Troy did need to watch film for a while and I was going to catch up with Sophie. Troy and I went inside, and he stopped as he tugged on my hands. "Whatever it is – I love you, I'm proud of you, and you are truly the strongest woman I know."

I blinked away the tears as I reached up to kiss him. "I love you," I whispered back to him. He hugged me and he went to go check on Claire and I went to find my sister. She was sitting at the counter and buried in homework. "Hey, I'm assuming she never woke up?" Sophie shook her head, "Nope. Not at all. It was the easiest baby-sitting gig of my life." I couldn't stop my laugh as I grabbed the pitcher of coffee and filled a cup. "Oh, can I get one? I forgot that was over there." I smiled as I made my sister her coffee and then I went to sit next to her. "How is school?" I asked taking a sip of my coffee.

"Really good, it's a lot of work but I am loving it. Only a year and half left." I gave her a smile as I watched what she was doing, "How was the appointment?" I shrugged as I took another sip. "We'll find out this afternoon if I am carrying your niece or nephew." She squeezed my wrist with a tiny smile, "You are." I gave her a half smile as tears filled my eyes. "I hope I am." She just gave a tiny smile and then reached over for a full hug. "You are. Stop worrying about it. The test is done. There is no more you can do." I laughed as I hugged her again. "Plus, you are going to be the world's best mom and that baby is going to be so fucking cute."

We both laughed as I wiped away my tears, "Gabi!" Claire came running down the hall and I picked her up as she nestled into my lap. "Hi sweet girl,"

"Hi Aunt Soph," Sophie smiled at her as Troy came in and kissed my cheek. "Claire wanted pancakes," I started to get up, "I can do it. I know you need to watch film and I have hogged your attention enough this week." Troy gave a weary smile, "El, I can make breakfast. It's a fifteen-minute set-back." I shook my head, "No, it's okay. I can cook her breakfast. Plus, it'll be my payment to Sophie." Troy only hesitated, "I like Gabi's pancakes better," Claire said, and Troy frowned, "Seriously?" Troy tossed to his daughter, and I giggled while Sophie hid her grin into her coffee mug.

Claire just shrugged, "They are so fluffy, yours are flat." Sophie snorted into her coffee as Troy rolled his eyes, "Fine, I'll go watch film." He stuck his tongue out at Claire and she giggled as I got up and started to make pancakes. I let her help me scoop, measure, and pour into the bowl. She stirred while I got the griddle on the stove hot as I put her down to go let Ember out back while I started cooking the pancakes. My mind busy with thinking about all the thoughts of tonight. Will I be upset? Excited? I was completely lost in thought with all of it.

"Gabs," I turned to see Sophie, "Don't burn your hand." I looked to see that I wasn't paying attention and I laughed as Claire came back in with Ember. "Gabi, does daddy have a game this weekend?" I nodded, "Yes, on Monday. It's at night." I told her and she gave a smile, "Do I get to go?" I nodded my head, "Yes, you do." She gave a bigger grin. I got her all set up with her pancakes and kissed the side of her head. Sophie smiled as I fed her some pancakes next, "Thanks, I have class soon and this will get me through." I laughed, "Do you want any eggs?" I asked her as I was already going to make some for myself.

"Sure, a little protein won't hurt." I finished cooking breakfast as I ate some eggs and half a pancake, but I was feeling sick. I couldn't decide if it was nerves or something…else. Since it just started, I was leaning towards feeling nervous. I grabbed some eggs and Troy's protein shake from the fridge as I went to the theater as he was on the phone with somebody. "Fuck, yea, that was a hard hit," he laughed as I walked into the room, and I sat it down in front of him. Those blue eyes sparkled with a smile, "Thanks, El." I nodded as I started to walk away but he stopped me with a tug on my hand. He pulled me down and into a kiss. "I'll be done in like an hour, probably." I just nodded, "Take your time. I think Sophie is about to head out and it's nice. I'm going to take Ember and Claire outside."

Troy nodded, "Hi Gabs," Reggie's voice came through the phone, "Hi Reggie," I greeted and winked at Troy before going back upstairs with Claire.

Gabi's POV

I chewed on my lip nervously as I stared at the two pregnancy tests in front of me. Troy was right behind me as Claire had fallen asleep after we had played outside for nearly two hours as it was unseasonably warm outside today. His hand pressed against my belly as it grounded me back to the earth. "We don't have to do this. I bet they call us soon," I swallowed, and I shook my head. "No, I need to know before they call. I am just…" I let out a breath of air. "Scared, I know, because I am, too." I looked at him in the mirror as our eyes connected. "Okay, let me pee." I pushed him out of the room and Troy just chuckled, "I've watched you pee before."

"I am already a nervous mess. You watching me will not help." He just smiled before I shut the door. I peed in a solo cup and once I was done, I washed my hand and opened the door as I was going to do both of them that simply would say pregnant or not pregnant. Troy and I would both open it at the same time. Troy leaned against the doorway as I dipped each stick in like the instructions said and then I slid them both back into the wrapper. My phone was set up recording all of this because being open about our last failed transfer was so good for me and it allowed me to connect with more woman.

I turned to face Troy, "How long?"

"Five minutes," I told him as my stomach rolled with nausea. He reached for me, and I went into his arms, and he wrapped me up tightly. His mouth pressing into the top of my head, "If you were cleared – I would distract you for five minutes." I laughed as I peered up, "Only five minutes?" I questioned and his eyebrow raised with a challenge. "I can make you come within five minutes, yes." I just rolled my eyes, but I didn't say anything because he wasn't wrong. He laughed reading my mind, "But are you saying I can only last five minutes? Only when you tease me all day long."

"What are your plans tomorrow?" I asked him, "You have work meetings?" I nodded my head, "Yea, I do but only in the morning."

"Maybe in the afternoon we can go do something as a family." I chewed on my lip and nodded, "It would be fun. I think we could all use something together. Anything indoor? It is supposed to be colder tomorrow." Troy thought about it for a minute, "Wait, I need to text Lucas and see if this is against my contract." I raised an eyebrow, "What is against your contract?" I asked him as I looked at the clock and it's literally only been one minute and thirty seconds. Agony. "Ice skating. Wouldn't it be fun?" I laughed, "I think it would be fun but please, we cannot let you get hurt."

"Or we can go to the kid's museum." I offered and Troy nodded, "Ice skating would be more fun." I laughed, "Can you even skate?" I questioned and he laughed, "Yea, I can skate. Can you?" I shook my head, "I went a few times in North Carolina but I never loved it. You know the cold isn't my favorite." He smiled, "Okay, fine," Troy paused with his eyes glowing, "Or we can stay home and put up the Christmas decorations as a family. I know it's a little early as you like to wait but my schedule really picks up after this and…I love putting up the Christmas decorations."

I felt the softness etch into my face, "Do you think a real tree will survive six weeks? I want a real tree. It would be fun to go pick one out as a family." Troy shrugged, "I say let's go do it. Who the fuck cares if it doesn't survive." I smiled as I reached up to wrap my arms around his neck and he lifted me up. I held onto him as my legs wrapped around his waist as he kissed my neck. "I love you," he whispered, and I could feel it on my skin. "I love you, too."

"I want to show you something." I raised a single eyebrow as he gently set me down and he peeled off his shirt and I raised an eyebrow, "Strip tease?" he laughed, "No," he turned around and I gasped. "Troy," If I didn't know – I would think he had a watercolor bubble on the opposite shoulder of his quote tattoo, but it was our embryo. It was a in watercolors – blue and green symbolizing our little boy. "What does it say?" I asked him as my fingers went over the tiny letters threaded around it. "Forever in our hearts – in Italian. I figured – I have a tattoo of Claire's feet and when we have another baby, I'll add to that collection but…" he swallowed as he turned to face me. Those blue eyes held so much happiness. "It didn't feel right to not do something for our embryo and just because it was never a baby doesn't mean that it wasn't important to us."

I wiped at my eyes and hugged him, "It's so beautiful, do you have the picture still? When did you get that done?" I asked him and he chuckled, "Yes, I do. I was planning on giving it to you after I showed you. I got it framed. And before we left for Alabama. I wanted it to heal first. It's why I rejected our shower together the other day." I pouted and he just laughed as he looked at his wrist. "It's so beautiful," I whispered to him. He gave a smile back to me. "I think it's been five minutes," I sobered up with that thought as he reached for his t-shirt and pulled it back on. I made sure my phone was still recording as Troy stood next to me as I picked up both sticks and I handed one to him. Troy let his eyes hold mine, "I'm here," he whispered, and I just nodded my head.

I cleared my throat, "Are you ready?" I asked him and he nodded his head, "Are you? We can wait." I just shook my head. "No, I want to know. I need to know and I just…" I exhaled, Troy squeezed my arm gently and he nodded, "Then let's find out." I just gave a smile as I inhaled and exhaled.

"Okay…3…2…1…" I spoke as Troy, and I made eye contact as I pulled out the stick and I blinked several times before I gasped and dropped the stick. My hands covered my mouth as I looked up to see Troy with tears in his eyes but the biggest smile on his face. Troy laughed and I was scooped up into his arms as I couldn't stop the tears that were already leaking down my face. "Oh my god," I whispered.

"El, you're pregnant." He whispered and I let out a sob of relief as I wrapped my entire body around his. The tears flowing freely as I picked up the stick on the counter. The two of us stared at the little words.

Pregnant

"We're going to have a baby," I whispered as our foreheads met and he laughed as he squeezed the back of my neck. "We're going to have a baby," he whispered as his mouth found mine and I couldn't break it up if I tried. The desperation, the need, the love that went into this whole process as our tears were mixing together. "I love you so much, I am so proud of you for going through this fucking journey to just go through another journey." I swallowed as I brushed some of his tears away. "I love you; I can't believe we're going to have a baby."

Troy laughed as we both looked at the stick again and I just laughed as I rested my head on his shoulder with happiness filling my entire body. I never thought I would see a positive pregnancy test. I thought it was always going to be sterile and phone calls. This was better. "I am so thankful we did this. This feels special." Troy put me on the counter before both of his hands held my face and he kissed me so damn hard. My arms wrapping around him and just holding on because we were going to do this.

Troy's POV

Gabi's phone rang and she smiled over at me as she looked over at me, "Hello?" she answered while putting it on speaker phone. I walked over as I stood behind her as we both were giddy together all afternoon. It was going to take all control to not tell Claire for a little bit only because it was early, early. "Gabi, it's Indy." Gabi smiled as she leaned back against me. "Hi, Indy."

"Gabi, I have such amazing news. Your test was positive!" It was as if she was hearing it for the first time again as she gasped as if she was finally believing it. "Really?" her voice was a tiny whisper and I wrapped her up in my arms as I couldn't stop my smile as I pressed my lips into her hair. "Really, your beta came back at 564," Gabi laughed as she looked back at me with the biggest hope in her eyes. "I can't believe it." Gabi said with a tiny laugh, "Believe it, you're pregnant!" I couldn't stop my smile as Indy told her to come back on Wednesday to do her next beta to make sure it at least doubled.

"You are almost right at five weeks as of today." Indy told her, "Based on everything, so, it is really early but keep up with all the injections that we talked about on transfer day. Okay?" Gabi nodded as they wrapped up their conversation. Gabi dropped her phone before launching at me as I held her so tightly. "We're going to have a baby, I can feel it, Troy." I just laughed, "Maybe this is why you have been so tired recently."

"I haven't been sleeping but…" she just gave a smile as she just laughed. "How long do you want to keep the news between us?" Gabi asked as she slid back onto the counter, and I walked between her legs. "I think our family all knows that we got the news today. It wasn't that big of a secret so maybe we can Facetime our parents tonight. We can remind all of them that it is early, things can still happen, but that so far, we are indeed pregnant with our baby." Gabi just smiled at me, "If our beta doubles – I think we can come off pelvic rest. I'll feel a lot better about it." I nodded, "Your lead," I reminded her softly and she just gave me the biggest grin.

She took my hand and pressed it against her belly. "Our baby," she whispered, and I smiled over at her as I loved knowing that in a few months she would have a little bump. I couldn't wait for her to have it so I could talk to our baby and that I could feel more comfortable touching. Eve wasn't big with the whole touchy-feely thing, especially while pregnant with Claire and Jackson. I hated it sometimes because I wanted to bond with our baby. "I think we wait a couple of weeks to tell Claire. I know we told her that we would tell her early but…I don't want to upset her if something happens." I told her and Gabi nodded quickly, "I think once we graduate from infertility clinic – then I think we can do it. I think once we do that, I am going to make a trip to Charleston. I want Dr. Miller to deliver our baby."

"Do you know our due date?" Gabi smiled, "July 22nd was what Dr. Monty told me during the transfer."

I gave a grin, "A week before we report to camp."

"Hopefully we can have it a little earlier. It would be a quick transition from North Carolina to Boston if our baby came on the due date." I smiled, "We're going to Charleston the moment you are done. The house should be done, right?" I nodded my head. "They are on track to be done in late January. So, if we get bounced early, we may have to wait but we will get so much time down there."

"Do you think you'll need an OB up here? Or will you just go back and forth. I may not be able to swing that with you."

"We'll see what she says. I think after nine weeks we graduate and go to our clinic of choosing which would be Dr. Miller. That would be mid-December. I think it would be monthly for a little bit after that so once in January. I think maybe two appointments and maybe I can get them on a Tuesday." I smiled at her as I kissed her softly as Claire came running into the room. "Daddy! I want to show you something!" I smiled at Gabi as I squeezed her hand before I followed her to her bedroom. My mind thought of the room just down the hall that we would turn into a nursery.

"Look, I put all of my babies to bed. Shh…" I chuckled as got down, "Yea, how did you get them to all go to sleep?" I whispered to her, and she shrugged, "They just did as I told them, too. Jackson doesn't do that. He doesn't like to sleep." I chuckled, "You didn't like to sleep either when you were that little. It's normal." She scrunched her face. "Really?" I nodded, "Really. Babies don't love to sleep like big people do."

"That's silly." I just chuckled as I sat down and watched her play for a little bit. "Do you want to decorate for Christmas tomorrow?" I asked her and she grinned, "Yes! I love Christmas! Do you think Santa will bring me a baby brother or sister for this house?" she asked me. I inhaled and I couldn't stop the water collecting in my eyes if I tried. "I hope so, baby. That would be cool, wouldn't it?" Claire nodded her head up and down, "It would be. So, that baby wouldn't sleep here either?" I laughed, "No, that baby wouldn't sleep here either probably."

Gabi's POV

The phone rang as Troy, and I were snuggled up on the couch together as the phone rang again as my parents should still be up. "Oh, shit, sorry, Gabi," my mom's voice connected through, and I couldn't stop my laugh. "Hi mom," I greeted as Troy held me to his side. "Is dad there?" I asked and she nodded, "Yes, hang on, Layla is here as well." I smiled as she grabbed both of them as before they even spoke, I just held up the positive pregnancy test up to the screen. The camera was screen recording and Layla gasped first, "Oh my god!" my mom screeched, and my dad laughed, "Gabi!"

I laughed as I wiped away the tears that were already falling, "We are currently pregnant, but it is very early still, and a lot can still happen but our first blood draw was great, and we go back for another one on Wednesday." Troy squeezed my hand as my mom and dad were beside themselves with excitement to add to their grandchild count with baby Auggie. "We are due in July, and we are both so excited," I said as I tilted my head back as Troy kissed me softly. "Claire has no idea though and won't for a little bit. Probably closer to Christmas." Troy said and they all agreed as Troy told me what she said upstairs.

It was almost the easiest path we could take – we would tell her on Christmas. My mom was crying, "Gabi, I am so happy for you. Troy, you have been amazing with Gabi during this entire journey. I am so thankful that she has you." Troy smiled, "She kicked ass during this whole time, and I know she is going to be absolutely glowing during pregnancy." Layla was grinning, "When are you going to tell Scar and Soph?"

"Tonight. The family will know tonight but outside of that – nobody will really know until after our six-week hiatus which will put us around 12 weeks." I explained. We answered a few of their other questions before we moved on to Troy's family. We again started the screen recording before his mom answer with a bright smile. "Hi guys! Gigi, your brother called." Troy laughed, "Why isn't she in Boston? She has been pestering me to bring Claire to a dance class this week." Gigi entered the screen with a roll of her eyes, "You should. Honestly. She would love it." Troy rolled his eyes, "Maybe. When are you back?"

"Tomorrow, I teach a class tomorrow night. It's the beginner little girl class," I squeezed his knee, "I think we should take her. She would love it and she could use some socialization." Troy just huffed but nodded, "Is dad around?" Ignoring all of the comments and I made eye contact with Gigi with a nod of my head. She grinned as Troy's dad stepped into the picture. "Hey, how are you both?" I snuck a peek at Troy as he tried to smother his smile, but he couldn't resist. I pulled out the positive test as I held it in front of the camera.

"Shut the fuck up!" Sara screamed and Troy and I both laughed as Gigi was also screaming. Sara and Gigi hugged as Marco had the biggest smile on his face. "Congrats you guys, that is…that is amazing." I smiled as I dropped the stick, "We are due in July, and it is still so early but…we are feeling good." Gigi just grinned, "Oh my god, I am so happy for the both of you! Does Claire know?" Troy shook his head. "She won't know till Christmas. The only people we are telling are the people who knew we had our transfer. Besides that – it's going to be mum for a little bit." Troy explained.

Once we got off the phone with them, we finished our siblings and Troy dropped the phone before burying his head into my neck. "I am so thankful for this. I know we have such a long journey, but this feels like a win." I laughed as I let my fingers brush through his hair. "It does feel like a win, and I will take this win."

The only other people we were telling were Hanson and Amber. Wren and Viv. That was it. That was the only people who knew we were transferring right now. Troy kissed me and the kissed turned hot and heavy as he turned to press me back into the couch. Our bodies moving with each other, and Troy groaned pulling away from me at one point, "I want this to continue but…no chance." I laughed as I pushed him as I got down on my knees, "Gabriella, absolutely not." I shot him a look, "Shut the fuck up, just because I can't doesn't mean I can't take care of you. You take care of me in so many different ways. Let me do this for you."

It shut him up as I pulled his joggers down and palmed him as he was already thrusting up into my hand. "Fuck," he groaned, and I just grinned as I licked my lips and teased him. "And you were going to say no," I teased. He just shot me a look, but I quickly shut him up.

Tuesday, November 14th, 2022

Troy's POV

Claire rode on my shoulders as we navigated towards the Christmas trees as we looked for the right one for our house. We were buddled up as I couldn't wait to go home and decorate the tree before surprising Claire with a dance class with Aunt Gigi tonight. Gabi and I called all of our friends this morning and everybody was so damn excited for us. I was damn excited for us. We both deserve this, and I could only cross my fingers that everything was going to trend up. Gabi wasn't going to breath until she was in a safer area of pregnancy.

"Daddy! I like that one!" Claire pointed and I followed her directions as we landed in front of a tree. It was tall and a little skinny, but it would probably work well in the house. I let my eyes drift over towards Gabi and she smiled with a nod of her head. She had a black knit hat on her head and was bundled up with a coat. Claire looked similar as I put her down. Gabi held her hand as I started to cut the tree down. I had Claire help a little bit after her showing her the proper way to do it. Once we got closer, I had her step back with Gabi and I finished it off.

Claire cheered and clapped her hands as the snow crunched underneath of her feet. Gabi held her hand as we started to walk back to the car. Gabi already had planned to make hot chocolate and turn on a Christmas movie while we put decorations on the tree. "Daddy, can we do this every year? It's fun." Gabi and I shared a smile, "Yes, baby. Every year we can do this." Gabi went to the little shop inside with Claire while I paid for the tree and had the guy help me put it on top of the car. "It's great to meet you, Mr. Bolton," I looked over at the teenager and smiled, "It's Troy and nice to meet you, thanks for the help." I shook his hand and he just grinned for a nod.

I went inside to join Gabi and Claire as they were looking at Christmas tree ornaments. "Claire, pick one out." Gabi said and she nodded as she perused the shelf. Her eyes surveying each and every single option that was in front of her. Gabi found a newlywed ornament and I smiled as I forget we haven't been married a year yet. "This one!" Claire brought up an ornament that was two kids and a black dog. "It's Ember and me and maybe if I get a baby brother or sister one day!" Gabi's eyes filled with tears, and she bent down to Claire's level.

I knew the tears for once weren't of sadness but of happiness that she had the opportunity to maybe give that to Claire. "Claire, that is amazing. I really hope your daddy and I can give you a baby brother or sister, soon." She whispered and grabbed her into a hug. Claire hugged her right back, "Me, too, you are going to be a good mommy." The tears dripped down her face and she kissed Claire's cheek as I picked her up and kissed on her face. "That might be my favorite one." I whispered to her, and she giggled, "Daddy, you should pick out one."

Claire wiggled down and she paused and then went to one before giggling, "Daddy! You're on an ornament!" Claire picked up one of me throwing in a Loyalist uniform. I laughed, "I think that's the one I should take home." She just giggled and Gabi smiled as I tucked her underneath of my arm. I kissed on the top of her head, "She's amazing," Gabi whispered, "And I can't wait to tell her." Gabi tilted her head back and I dropped a kiss before I went to pay for the three new ornaments. A tradition that I felt like we just created as a family of three and hopefully next year as a family of four.

"Daddy! How did the tree get on top of the car?" Claire asked climbing into the back, "I tied it up there with a helper from here." I told her as I made sure she was properly buckled into her car seat. "Are you that strong?" she asked with wide eyes, and I chuckled, "I am pretty strong, baby. I throw a football a long way." I told her and she just rolled her eyes, "That doesn't make you strong." She sassed back and I laughed, "If I wasn't strong then I couldn't throw it very far." I shut her door and didn't hear her reply as Gabi was giggling up front at the interaction.

"I love you both," Gabi mentioned, and I squeezed her knee as we started the car on the way back. It wasn't far from our house as Gabi interlocked our fingers together while Claire talked about all the things she wants to do with the tree. "Claire, what movie should we turn on while we decorate the tree?" Gabi asked her as she tilted to look back at her. "Mmm…Santa Clause!" I smiled, "I do like that one, too." She clapped her hand and gave a smile towards Gabi. Getting home, Gabi and I worked to get the tree unclipped but that was the end of her effort that I was allowing her to help.

"Troy,"

"No," I told her again as I stood up on the side of the car to pull the tree down. "Do not get hurt." Gabi warned, "Or else the Loyalist are going to be pissed." I just shot her a smile as Ember came running out with Claire on her tail. Gabi shooed them back into the house and I was able to get the tree down and I carried it into the house where Gabi had set up a stand. I placed it down and we both got it screwed in and Claire was grinning, "I love it so much!" she threw herself on my body and I laughed as I hugged her. "I'm glad you like it."

Gabi took her to help with the lights and I made hot chocolate with marshmallows while we started the movie. Gabi flipped the fireplace on, and this felt like…home. For the first time in a really long time everything felt good. Gabi turned to look at me for a moment and I could feel her happiness. Those brown eyes twinkling, and we were both thinking that next year…there could be another one in this living room. The excitement rolled through my gut, and I was excited. I helped Gabi with hanging the lights up top and Claire helped at the bottom. Once we had the lights on, we got to work with the ornaments.

Claire demanded more hot chocolate and my phone rang, Gabi just nodded, and I went into the kitchen. "Hey," I answered as it was Lucas. "Hey, I need you for an emergency meeting." I closed my eyes, "Right now? What's it about?" I asked him as I prepared the drink. "We need to discuss a project with the NFL. They want you. They also want to meet today." I shook my head as my eyes peered at Gabi and Claire both laughing together in the living room. "I can't," I told him, and Lucas balked, "You can't? Or don't want too? Which one is it?" Lucas asked me with a hint of annoyance. "I can't, Lucas. I am having a day with my family. Claire would be so bummed if I left. I am supposed to take her to Gigi's place for her first dance class tonight. I just…it's my day off, Lucas." I ran my fingers through my hair and Lucas sighed from the other end of the phone.

"I don't know if they will pursue you if you don't do it today."

"I don't care, honestly. Are they going to kick me out of the NFL if I don't do whatever this secret project is?" Lucas laughed, "No, it just had money attached."

My eyes peered into the living room as Gabi was helping Claire on the ladder as they were hanging more ornaments, both of them smiling and Claire said something that made Gabi laugh. Her eyes lifted to meet mine and I smiled over at the two of them. "Yea, I'm good. I want to stay with my family." Lucas didn't say anything for a beat, "Okay, if, you are sure."

"I'm sure. If they want to meet tomorrow, then I'll do it, but if not then somebody else can do it. I'm not ruining my day with my girls." Lucas sighed, "You know, you were easier to work with when you were married to Eve," he grumbled and I laughed, "What's your point? I'm happy, Plus, we're just celebrating the fact that the transfer was a success." Lucas sighed, "I'm happy for you," he said quietly, and I just gave a smile. "Thanks, Lucas. Let me know if they want to meet tomorrow." Lucas agreed as I finished making Claire's hot chocolate and then went back to helping. Right where I was supposed to be.

Gabi's POV

Claire was giddy with excitement as she dressed in a leotard and her coat walking in hand in hand with her dad. I snapped a picture of the two of them as Troy was in a pair of joggers with a crew neck with a backwards hat. He was smiling down at her, "I get to finally take a class with Aunt Gigi?" she asked bouncing on her toes causing Troy to laugh. "You sure do. Mommy is going to come watch as well." Troy opened the door and let Claire in and held it for me. "This outfit is hot," I told him with a tug of the grey crewneck. He chuckled as Claire was skipping across the floor before sprinting when she saw Aunt Gigi.

Gianna dropped down and grabbed her in a hug as Troy slid back against the wall, "I told Gi that I didn't want to cause too much of a scene being here." I glanced up at him as this was an introductory class and I knew Claire was going to be hooked from the beginning. "I think you just need to enjoy your daughter dancing and let go of people watching you." He gave a brief moment thought to it, "I don't care about me. I care about you and her being bothered by people when you are just trying to live your life. You didn't ask for this and Claire surely did not ask for this." I could see the stress build on his shoulders knowing that she would never have the private life he would want for her.

"Troy, she doesn't care about any of that. She wants her dad. Yea, maybe when she is a teenager, she might be annoyed that nothing is private that she does but…if she has you. That's all she needs." Troy chewed on his lower lip as I knew this probably bothered him more than he ever let on. Just like everything else he worried about. I didn't know until we did something. Eve came over with a walking Jackson as Troy was being more open with Jackson. He no longer felt that enviousness towards him. "Hi Jackson," he reached for a high-five, and he grinned reaching up for Troy.

"Where is your daddy? Busy?" Eve laughed, "Yea, he had to work late tonight." I waved hi to Eve as we were on a video call earlier today working on a new project with The Sunshine Pact. Troy pointed something out to Jackson as Jackson laughed. Jackson was wearing a Bolton jersey. Eve and Christian had really worked things out and had moved into a house together that wasn't going to be too far from our new house whenever we started that process. We were finishing the beach house before we started working on the house in Boston. But the best part was it was going to be closer to Claire's private school that Eve and Troy agreed upon and it was going to be just ten minutes from Eve.

Claire spun around at one point in the class, and she beamed and waved when she saw Eve and Jackson. If you would have asked me almost two years ago about this scene – I would have fucking laughed. I would have laughed so hard, but it was so much better between all of them right now. I think Troy and Eve were going to be great co-parents with each other. They were always going to put Claire first and that's all that matters. "Do you want to take Claire tonight? I have a meeting in the morning and Gabi has an appointment tomorrow. You have her tomorrow night anyways."

Eve nodded, "Yea, that works. Everything going, okay?" Eve wasn't really in the know about when we were doing things and what not, but I nodded, "It is. Just a few things we're checking tomorrow but things are good." Troy shot me a smile and I smiled back as Claire was having so much fun doing what Gigi was doing. "I love her in a little leotard," Eve gushed, "I know. She was so cute putting it on. Her little ballerina bun." Eve had tears in her eyes as I knew she was flashing back to when we shaved her head. Troy grunted between the two of us, "I'm sorry but let's not encourage this. Gigi already does that enough for all of us." Eve and I exchanged a glance, "Uhm, why can't she be a little dancer?" I questioned.

"Because, I have sat through more dance competitions and dance recitals, and I don't want to do any more." He whined and I just laughed. "Oh, you will love watching your daughter." I teased him and Troy just gave a faint smile. "But…" Eve and I shook our heads, "No." we both said together, and Troy groaned. "She is so damn cute," Eve spoke, and Troy groaned, "I know. Why do you think I resisted so long to let Gigi do this? Because I knew she was going to be damn cute." We both laughed as we watched her have fun with her peers. I know my own heart clutched knowing her battles and how far she has come to get here.

Troy put Jackson down at some point and I leaned back against his chest. "I am just happy I get to see her do this." Troy said quietly and I nodded as I gripped his forearm. "I was just thinking the same thing. She has come so far." Troy kissed the top of my head, and he breathed in. "You both know I will support her in anything and everything right? I am just messing around." Eve laughed, "Yes, Troy. I know. You will never do anything to impede on her happiness." I laughed quietly as he pinched me. "Whatever she wants – I will do whatever I can to be there and support."

"You're a good dad, that was never our issue," Troy rolled his eyes as I couldn't stop my laugh. The class finished up and it was like the moment the class was over the parents lost all self-control and started to approach Troy left and right. He let go of me and guided me to take Claire somewhere else. I found Claire with Eve and we directed her to her shoes and coat. "Damnnit, I told most of my parents to play it cool. A lot of those are the ones that I don't know." Gianna spoke as I could see her own stress build watching her brother sign autographs and take pictures.

"He knew." I told her and she sighed, "I know, but I know part of his problem of wanting her to do things is because of what it causes." She waved her hand towards the group as Troy had a forced smile on his face. "I might be making people sign contracts to leave him alone. I hate this part for him. He just wants to support his daughter." Claire grinned up at Eve, "Mommy! I had so much fun! Can I come back next week Aunt Gigi?" Gianna smiled, "Yes, of course. You are always welcome to my classes, Claire Belle." She tapped her nose. "Baby, you are going to come home with Jackson and me. Is that okay?" Claire nodded, "But aren't I supposed to stay with daddy tonight?"

"Yes, but he would have to drop you off early at Mommy's house. It just makes sense to stay with me tonight. Plus, your teacher is coming over tomorrow." Gianna left as I watched her go over to Troy and gently pulled him away. She pushed him in our direction before telling the parents to gather their kids and leave. Troy came over as he scooped up Claire into the world's biggest hug. "I had so much fun with you today, baby girl." She grinned as she kissed his cheek, "I love you, daddy. I'll miss you tonight and tomorrow and the next night," she kept going which only caused Troy to laugh. "I'll see you Sunday, okay?" she nodded, and Troy kissed on her face before hugging her so tightly. His eyes closed and holding onto her tighter. "I love you," he kissed on her again before setting her down.

Claire gave me a big hug as Troy gave Jackson a high-five. "I'll see you guys later," we waved good-bye as Troy smiled watching her leave with Eve. "C'mon, we have a night free in the house."

Wednesday, November 15th, 2022

The nerves were high as I was waiting for another phone call. The big thing today was if my beta was going to double.

They wanted to see my beta at least at 1,130. My stomach was crawling with nerves as I wanted this to work so badly. Last night, Troy and I laid in bed and dreamed about this baby. Our wants and hopes for the future. We were leaving our days of just having Claire a few days a week to having somebody here constantly. We were both giddy with excitement, but I couldn't help but feel nervous. This wasn't a for sure thing. There was still a lot of room for error.

I made a video this morning for TikTok to post in a few weeks about my feelings before finding out our next beta number. It was absolutely nerve wracking. I rolled my lips together as I tried to keep myself busy. I was failing. Troy came with me to the blood draw after telling him repeatedly that he was missing nothing. Yet, deep down, I loved that he wanted to be there for everything. That he wasn't in this for the baby – he was in this for me and a baby. I never felt alone in all of this, and he was partially to thank for that.

Troy said he had a long day today because after practice, he had meetings, and the after meetings he had a meeting with the NFL that they wanted yesterday. I wasn't sure when he was going to be home and I knew I wasn't going to be able to wait to tell him until he got home, hell, I might be in bed already. I was tired and had been sick to my stomach the past few days, but I took them all as good signs.

When my phone rang, I jumped.

I reached for it quickly and pressed record on the camera I was sitting by to capture my own reaction. I wasn't sure how I was sharing all of this, but I knew one day I would be thankful for all the footage to show our little baby how hard we worked for them. How much we wanted them. "Hello?" I answered turning it to speaker phone as I felt my nerves kick into full force. "Gabi, hi, it's Indy. I have your test results for today's beta." I couldn't tell what her voice was trying to convey to me. Was it happy? Was it sad? I couldn't tell and I only felt anxious in return.

"Just rip the band-aid off, Indy." I felt a nervous laugh leave my system and she too laughed.

"It's 1,930," I gasped and dropped my phone as tears filled my eyes listening to the number, she repeated to me. "Seriously?" I asked as my voice cracked and she laughed, "Seriously. I looked at the number and the chart twice to make sure. You're pregnant and it seems to be going very well. We'll do one more beta on Friday and if that also doubles in number, we'll schedule your ultrasound for Monday." I couldn't control the sob that left my mouth as I closed my eyes with tears pouring down my face. "Congrats, Gabi. You deserve this." Her words were comforting as she reminded me of my blood draw on Friday as I hung up the phone and wiped at my face.

1,930.

I let my hand fall to my belly as I finally felt like I could start believing that this was going to happen.

I shot off a text message to Troy immediately.

Gabi: Are you busy?

I wiped my face as I tried to gain composure when my phone rang, and it was Troy trying to facetime me. I answered and I could see the panic begin to climb on his face from one look at my face. "I'll be home in thirty," he was grabbing his keys and I laughed, "No, Troy, stop," I started screen-recording my phone as he paused for a moment and those blue eyes looked at me. I could sense the hope in them as he looked at me through the phone. "El," I smiled as the tears formed all over again.

"It's 1,930." I told him and he laughed as those blue eyes light up. The tears filled behind them, "Seriously?" he asked, and I nodded my head, "Seriously. I made her double check. She said if we get another good number on Friday we'll schedule my ultrasound for Monday," I was a blubbering mess just thinking about the fact that I could see our baby on a screen. Troy laughed as he rubbed his eyes with one hand. "I hate that I am not with you right now." He whispered and I shook my head, "I could have waited but I didn't want, too. I wanted you to know right now."

Troy laughed as he looked down at his watch for a moment and then back to me, "I have an hour break that is my dinner. Do you want to meet somewhere? I know you've been tired, and I want you to get sleep. I don't know when I'll be home." I nodded my head, "Yea, I would like that. I can meet at the facility if that's the best you can do." I told him honestly. He shook his head, "We can meet at a restaurant down the street from the gym. I am doing my meeting at Lucas's office." I nodded in agreement as I looked at him, "I love you," he told me with a proud smile on his face.

"I love you, too." I told him with my own smile.

We hung up the phone and I couldn't stop my laugh with a brush away of my tears. We were doing it.

I was scooped up into his arms before I could even think. My body crushed against his and my mouth being devoured by his. "Hi," he whispered once he pulled away. I just giggled, "Hi," I responded, and I kissed him again as we were just in the parking lot. His body pressing me back against my car door as if he couldn't get enough of me and I honestly couldn't get enough of him. I felt the curl of his lips against mine as he pulled away and buried his face into my neck. "Your phone call is what got me through this day." He mumbled and I ran my fingers through his hair. They were playing a hot Jets team this weekend and coming off the bye week practices were intense. Luckily, they played Monday night at home giving them some extra work.

"I don't have nearly as much time for dinner as I thought, but I can see you for the next fifteen minutes."

"Or we can go to Lucas's office together and spend extra time there. I have take-out in the car. Lucas might have shot me a text that he moved up the time." I felt the smile against my neck, "Get in the car, let's go." I laughed as he took back off towards his car as I slipped into mine. It wasn't far from Lucas's office and once we were inside, I handed him his food as I didn't feel well. "Where is your food?" he asked as I sat next to him. "Not hungry. I haven't felt well today." I told him as I tucked my hair behind my ear. Troy gave me a sideways glance as he started to split his food.

"Troy, no, I promise, I am okay."

"Gabs," his voice was a half plea and I let out a sigh as I took a bite of his dinner. He was in a pair of jeans with a Loyalist crew neck. His hair was cut, "Did they come to do haircuts today?" I asked as I let my fingers run over his hair. He nodded, "Yea, they did. Will you please eat more than a bite?" Those blue eyes full of concern as he glanced at me. "I'm afraid it might come back if I do," I told him honestly. "Lucas has other snacks, crackers, he keeps them for Claire." I hesitated but finally just nodded as he got up to go grab something. Lucas came into the room on the phone, and he sent me a half smile.

"I would say it's because your pregnant but it's that and because it's you." He mentioned and I just laughed as Troy came back with a handful of snacks as he had me pick one. I ate some peanut butter crackers to appease him, and it helped a little bit, but I didn't push my luck either. He scarfed his dinner down and the moment he was done I was being slid into his lap. "Troy," I said with a laugh as he kicked his feet up on the couch and tugged me down with him. "Troy," Lucas called from his desk he was perched against. "Five minutes with my wife." Troy mumbled and I knew he was half away asleep with his face in my hair.

"No, that means fifteen-minute nap. Get up. We need to get ready for this meeting. I gave you thirty minutes with her." Troy groaned and I tried to sit up and Troy tugged me back down, "No. Don't listen to him. He's fucking bossy." Lucas laughed as I couldn't control my own laugh. "Troy, baby, you need to finish your night so you can get into bed with me later." I kissed his cheek and pushed off his chest. Troy sat up with tussled hair and a deadly look towards Lucas. "I forgot how damn grumpy you are after practices." Lucas grumbled.

"I'm not grumpy. I am tired and I would much rather go home with my wife. She's prettier than you." Lucas smirked, "Yea, I know. I would say I would also go home with your wife, but I am pretty sure I would be beat to hell." Troy shot him a look and I laughed pushing him. "Stop, be nice to your brother. He's just getting you riled up." Troy rolled his eyes as he stood up and wrapped me up in his arms. "I'm walking her to her car and then I will be right back. Boy scout honor," Troy held up three fingers as Lucas rolled his eyes. "You were a terrible boy scout."

Troy grinned, "And I'm not starting today."

"Troy, you better be back for that meeting." Lucas yelled as we walked out and Troy shot me a grin, "I'm going to be five minutes late to keep him on his damn toes." I just laughed, "No you are not. Because that means you have to be five minutes later to being home." Troy laughed as we went down the elevator and out the front doors. "That's fair, I do like to make him sweat." His jean clad hips gently pressed me back against the car door as his mouth found mine. As if we just weren't in this same position thirty minutes ago.

His mouth devoured mine while his hands gripped my hips. "I love you, thank you for coming for just thirty minutes." I closed my eyes, "I would come see you for five minutes and it would make my day." He smiled while cupping my cheek and giving me another kiss. "Go, I want you in my bed tonight." He just gave a smile and kissed me one more time before making sure I got in my car and locked it before he took off for the doors. I shot Lucas a text making she he knew who to thank to getting him back up there so quickly.

Happy Wednesday. ya'll. I literally lost track of my days HA! I meant to upload this on Sunday and then I realized it was Sunday and I was in the middle of my shifts at work. Last night I meant to do it and then well I fell asleep lol night shift life.

BUT ARE YOU HAPPY!?

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