Chapter 15 – My Girls

Thursday, December 1st, 2022

7 Weeks Pregnant

Gabi's POV

I chewed on my fingernail as Troy threw a pass down the field as they had a Thursday night game tonight but that only meant one thing to my ears – I had my husband all weekend. On Saturday we already arranged to go see Santa with Claire and Eve. Jackson and Christian were also coming as we found a private Santa for the kids to just give the privacy that hadn't been a thing recently. Troy was having a hot season with only two losses on the schedule thus far. We've had one more ultrasound since our last one and they just got better and better with each visit.

Every Tuesday I looked forward to seeing our little babe. I wrapped up in my expensive coat that Troy bought me as Amber sat on the other side of me with Sophie on the other. Layla and Scar were inside the booth with Auggie. My whole family was down here, and I loved that, but I really didn't want to see any of them after the game. Troy had a quick week this week to get ready for a Thursday game after a Sunday game. I had barely seen him but somehow, he made our appointment time work on Tuesday. The saint that he was held true to his word – I never did an appointment alone.

"How are you feeling?" Sophie asked me and I shrugged, "For the most part? Good. Sometimes in the morning I have a big of nausea, but it goes away after I eat. Overall, I cannot complain." Amber laughed as her hand ran over her belly. "I was sicker than a dog the first trimester every single time. I hope it stays for you." I agreed as Troy and Hanson connected on a pass for a touchdown as Amber and I jumped up screaming. We hugged together as I was so damn proud of him. I knew how sore his body was. I knew about every single late night and the lack of Claire time that he was getting. We had her a few nights this week, but she spent majority of it with Eve.

Troy was getting her Saturday instead of Sunday to spend an extra day with her. I relaxed back in my seat as I looked at Sophie, "How is school?" I asked her and she nodded, "Good. I am really enjoying all of it. Thankfully, I am focused on school and doing everything I need for it." I shot her a sideways glance, "I heard it was you." Sophie laughed, "It was me and it was the right choice. We were just…" she shrugged as if she didn't want to finish the sentence. "It was fun, and he wasn't my forever."

"Did he do something?" I asked and she shook her head quickly, "No. He didn't He's a really good guy, but I just wasn't feeling it besides in one area." She hinted and I got what she was throwing down. "Ahh…" Amber chuckled next to me, "So they both have it?" Sophie and I just both laughed as Sophie sighed, "We're going to be good friends though," I smiled as I squeezed her hand. "I heard Troy already declined all invites to anything tonight." Amber mentioned and I laughed with a nod, "Yea, he's tired. I think we both need a night together. Since the off week we haven't spent any time together honestly. He has a date planned for tomorrow that he refuses to tell me anything about. I don't know. I bet we are both asleep an hour after we get home."

"A surprise date? Hanson would never." I laughed, "I don't know why." I said as I fiddled with my rings on my hand.

"Uhm maybe to celebrate your birthday?" Sophie tossed and Amber gasped, "That's coming up?" My cheeks flushed as I nodded, "On Monday. We'll also be eight weeks pregnant on Monday." Amber grinned, "That is so exciting! I really hope he treats you so well."

"Oh, he will." Sophie said, "That man worships the ground you walk on." My cheeks flushed as I searched for him on the sideline as he was standing with his friends as they were all laughing and joking around. They wanted to go back-to-back but it was so rarely done. "We need to do something! Maybe on Wednesday when the guys are gone all day." Amber mentioned and I nodded, "Let's do it." She gave me a smile as the game was starting to wind down and my eyes were growing heavy. If there was one pregnancy symptom I had: it was excessive exhaustion. I had to ask Dr. Monty if it was normal, and she just laughed and said yes.

I was chronically so tired.

I took a three-hour nap before the game, and I could go right back to bed. I stood up to stretch out and rub my eyes as I debated about seeing Troy after the game or just heading home. I knew he probably wanted to see me after the game, but I don't know if I had it in me. "You look tired," I nodded towards my sister, "The first trimester exhaustion is the worst." Amber said and I nodded, "Yea, it really fucking is." We all laughed as the game ended in a victory as the team was celebrating on the field. I went inside as my cheeks were so cold as Lucas and Marco both shook their head at me. "My brother is going to murder me over you." He grumbled as he hugged me and then he hugged Sophie.

"You doing, okay?" he asked her, and she nodded her head, "Yea, I am." She responded with a smile, and he smiled back at her. "Lucas, how mad is my husband going to be if I skip seeing him after the game?" I yawned just to prove a point and Lucas chuckled, "I know he isn't going to want to see my ugly face, but I am going to bet he'll forgive you." I hesitated and he shook his head, "Go home if you need to go home. I'll tell him." I pondered on it for a moment as I yawned again. "Go home, I'll walk you to your car."

"But sitting in traffic might make me fall asleep," I pouted, and Lucas laughed, "Then take a nap." I just sighed heavily as I went to pick up my cell phone. "C'mon Gabs, stay with us." Amber hooked my arm as we headed down to the family waiting area. My sisters were heading out as I hugged each of them before they headed out with promises to see them soon. I went downstairs with Troy's family as we waited, and I found the couch as I kicked my legs up. I tucked my legs in and felt my eyes close. I don't remember closing them – but I 100% did because the next thing I knew a warm hand was on my face.

My eyes pulled open, and I found a pair of amused blue eyes staring at me. "Good game," I said as my eyes closed again and Troy just chuckled as he kissed my forehead. "Thank you, you want to ride home with me?" I shook my head no, but Troy just laughed again, "No, I'm okay," I pushed to sit up and I looked at him as I lifted my arms, and he chuckled while I pulled him into me. My arms wrapped around him, and he held me as he kissed my neck. "I should rephrase – you are riding home with me. It was so loud in here and you were just passed out." I couldn't stop my laugh. He pulled away as he held my face in his hands while his thumb brushed my cheeks.

"Just tired?" he asked me, and I nodded my head as he finally took what he had been waiting for. His mouth found mine, but he kept it soft. He easily pulled me up and I wrapped up into him again. "Did you sit outside all game again?" he asked as I was still in my coat, and I just nodded into his chest. "Lucas," he growled, and I pinched his arm. "Don't be mean to your brother. I am grown woman."

"A grown pregnant woman." He reminded me and I rolled my eyes, "I was fine. I wasn't even cold. Remember, you bought me this stupid expensive jacket that is really, really warm." Troy just rolled his eyes but grabbed my face and kissed me again. "Did you call?" Lucas popped up and I shook my head. "You let her sit outside?" Lucas rolled his eyes, "She's a grown woman, she can make her own decisions." I poked Troy, "See?" he just rolled his eyes again as he folded our hands together. "Can I please drive home?" I begged and Troy shook his head. "You can just take me to practice tomorrow, and we can pick it up then."

"Practice tomorrow?" I squeaked and Troy chuckled as he pulled me into his body. "We have film at noon but then we are free after that." His lips found my hair as he gave it a soft kiss. "I wanted the whole day with you." I pouted and Troy chuckled, "I think we can spare two hours. You can go check on The Sunshine Pact," he offered, and I shook my head as we walked to his car. "El," his voice was soft as we got closer to the car. I just turned and buried myself into his chest. His lips pressed into my hair again and they stayed there. "I promise, you will be sick of me by the end of our date."

"Promise?" I mumbled into his chest, and he just chuckled, "With everything,"

Troy's POV

Gabi was draped across the chest as I had to carry her to our bedroom from the car as she passed out on me. I knew she was feeling the past few weeks as she was doing a lot alone. I had been so busy with football and to know I had all weekend with both of my girls was refreshing. I undressed Gabi when we got here but she woke up just enough to wash her face and pull on one of my t-shirts before crawling into bed. She had been so tried recently that I would leave in the morning, and she would still be asleep, and I would come back, and she would already be asleep. Not that I was complaining. It only meant she was growing our baby. The thought alone made me smile.

I had barely seen the whites of her eyes, so I wasn't surprised when I walked out to see her asleep on the couch in the family lounge. My fingers tangled into her hair as I scrolled through pictures of the past few weeks on my phone. Some of her sleeping, a video of the two of us from our last ultrasound and the way we were both just so happy to see our baby thriving on the screen. I couldn't wait to tell Claire, but we agreed on Christmas Eve. Gabi went back and bought an ornament that said big sister on it for Claire with a promoted to big sister t-shirt. We both acknowledged that she already was, but it was important that she felt important with this baby, too.

A photo of Claire's gummy smile was the next picture and my chest ached. I missed my littlest girl. I hadn't seen her since earlier this week because of my schedule and I couldn't wait to hug her. I wanted to wrap her up so tight and never let go sometimes. Her scans were coming around the corner – faster than I wanted them to be but I also needed to make sure there was nothing off. I couldn't handle that. My anxiety was playing a fiddle in the background with Gabi being pregnant and just it being so fresh still. Gabi was getting excited, and I don't think I would be able to handle her let down. The sadness that would come from the small attachment to our baby would be so hard on her. It would be hard on me. It would be double hard watching her grieve our baby if something happened.

I tucked her in closer to me as I shut the lights off and let the darkness settle in around the two of us. "Thank you for coming home tonight," her voice caught me off guard, but I smiled, "I didn't want to go anywhere else," I whispered as the moon was the only light filtering in. Her head twisted as she looked at me, those honey eyes. "I missed you just as much." I brushed her lower lip with my thumb, and she just gave a smile as she kept her eyes closed. "I hate that you have to go watch film tomorrow." My hand ran down her skin as it was warm against my hand. "I know, baby. I promise, two hours. That's it."

"No throwing?" I snorted, "No. My shoulder hurts. I need to get treatment though so that might tack on some time." She shifted and pushed up on her elbows. The movement catching me off guard. "Your shoulder? What's wrong with it?" her fingers went to it immediately. "Nothing is physically wrong with it besides that I threw the ball fifty times tonight." Gabi frowned. "You need to take it easy, Troy. We have the play-offs in front of us." I couldn't stop the corner of my mouth from turning up as I watched her. Her fingers squeezing gently on my shoulder as she massaged it. Fuck, I loved this woman.

"What if I do your treatment?" she asked, and I laughed knowing that I was neglecting my girl and I hated it. "I don't think coach will go for it and we might get distracted," I said pushing hair off her shoulder and behind her ear as she slid onto my lap. She just laughed with a shake of her head. "Does everything I do turn you on?" I nodded, "Especially massaging my shoulder," I told her with a serious look which only caused her to laugh again. Her arms went around my neck, and she rested her head on my shoulder as if she was Claire. Her fingers played with the back of my hair, "Why are you awake now?" I asked her and she shrugged, "I'm wasting time if I am not awake with you. I can sleep in your absence." I chuckled as I kissed the side of her head. "I need some sleep though," she pouted as I lowered us both to the bed as we laid side by side.

"I love you, I promise, tomorrow – it's our day." She just sighed and nodded. "I hate being needy. It's not me but I don't think I realized how little I could see a human I lived with until the weeks like these," She whispered, "But I do miss you." I tucked hair behind her ear, "I miss you way more and it's okay to be a little needy. I get needy too when I don't see my girl." She let out a little sigh as she closed her eyes and then opened them to reveal a few tears in her eyes. "El," I whispered her name and she bit on her lower lip.

"I feel bad as we are taking time away from you and Claire. That little girl needs you more than me." She whispered.

"Stop, I will have plenty of time with her. Don't do that. You deserve time, too." I kissed her softly and she sighed, "I think it's the pregnancy hormones." She said and I laughed as I lowered to press my mouth to her belly. "Shine on, sweet baby," I whispered. Gabi tugged on my hair, and I smiled kissing her belly again before I came up and found her mouth. "I love you,"

"I love you," she responded as she squeezed me. "What do you want for your birthday?" I asked her as she was letting her eyes close again. "Tomorrow," she whispered quietly, and I closed my eyes at those words. I knew. I knew how much she needed a day with me, and I wish I could give her two, but I could only give her one of those. The balance that we always talked about, but I would make tomorrow so damn good. I almost wanted to not show up for film tomorrow but that would only land me in hot water. I let my fingers play with her hair as she fell back asleep against me. Tucked in close and curled up on her side.

Her hair was tucked around her face, and I knew that I was so damn lucky. There was nothing that I could actually get her to tell her how much I loved her besides giving her a good day tomorrow. Monday, I did have a plan and I couldn't wait to spend it with her. We got to see our baby on Tuesday together to celebrate eight weeks. Then we'll be graduating soon from the fertility clinic. We would go see her OB down in Carolina as that was who she wanted to deliver our baby. Fuck, I loved that we were pregnant. That we were having a baby together.

My eyes wondered to her flat belly, and I knew one day it would be swollen and I would love it. To feel our baby kick? That would be the best gift of them all.

Friday, December 2nd, 2022

Gabi's POV

I woke up to the smell of food in the air and I palmed the other side of the bed hoping that my husband was still present, but I knew he was the reason behind the food. I blinked my eyes open and rubbed them as I was still so tired, and this might be one of the least pleasant sides of the pregnancy symptoms. I felt like I had zero energy to do anything. Opening my eyes felt like a task. I pushed up into a sitting position to find Ember at the foot of my bed and the door shut. A note plastered to the back of it.

Stay in bed.

I just laughed as I didn't have to be told twice as I laid back and found my phone. I scrolled through my Instagram and the reposting The Sunshine Pact onto both accounts. Ember lifted her head when she heard Troy coming back and I switched to camera as he popped open the door balancing two hot cups of coffee and a small breakfast. A smile graced his face once he realized I was awake. My eyes bouncing around every single tattoo on his body as he looked so good this morning. I stopped the video as I put little hearts on it before putting it on my story.

"I didn't make a lot because I wasn't sure if you were too hungry. If anything, we can grab lunch before film." He settled the tray down as he put the coffee in my hand, but I quickly ditched it to the side table as I tilted my head back. "I need something." He gave a smirk as he dipped down to kiss me. "Good morning, baby." I smiled, "Good morning." I whispered up to him as he crawled into bed next to me and Ember snuggled up next to his legs. I grabbed my coffee again as I snuggled into his chest while I picked at the pancakes and eggs.

"This is good," I told him, and he smiled, "Good. I am glad. I wasn't sure if you were in the mood for breakfast or not." I shrugged, "It's a morning game-time decision." Troy chuckled as he drank his coffee while his thumb brushed against my stomach. "I was a little sad when you weren't in bed this morning." A laugh echoed from him, "Just a little?" I nodded my head, "Yea, just a little bit." He kissed my temple, "I am going to actually drop you off somewhere while I'm at film." I frowned, "It's going to take the entire time you are there?" I asked and Troy nodded, "It is. Trust me," he laid his hand on my arm. The callouses of his fingers didn't match the softness of his palm. The rough and soft all within the same touch.

Troy snapped a picture of something, and I glanced up at him as the blankets were bunched underneath of my belly and he had pushed my shirt up to expose it. His hand resting there as if he could feel anything. "These should be our progression pictures. I like this." I laughed, "Yea? You like this?" I nodded towards the phone, and he nodded his head. "Okay," I told him, and he just gave me that smile. That smile that made everything tingle as he took my coffee cup away and then sat his down. He pulled me into his lap as I straddled his legs.

Our breakfast dishes pushed to the side as he eased the shirt I was wearing off and those blue eyes morphed and dilated with every second. I would never not feel beautiful in front of his eyes as he stared at me with the utter most happiness on his face. The calm that washed over the two of us. "I have a distinct feeling I have been neglecting my wife," he whispered as his finger traced down my arm and then over my breasts. I shivered underneath of his touch. "Yea, you have been," I threw him a teasing glare and he just chuckled while the corner of his lips turned up slightly.

"Football season is not for the faint of heart."

"No, it isn't." my breathing was labored as he finally stopped touching me and pulled my mouth to his mouth. The kiss was soft but sensual, demanding but paced, and it was everything in me to not push him onto his back and devour him. "Thank you for being with me every single week even if this year hasn't been easy." His thumb stroked my cheek as I kissed him again as I rolled my hips against him. He groaned against my mouth and that nearly sent me over the edge. A shrill ran through the room and we both stopped because that ring tone meant one thing.

Claire.

Troy cleared his throat as he counted to five before he reached over for the cell phone. It was a Facetime and I slid off his lap and grabbed my shirt as I was trying to catch my breath. "Hi Claire bear," Troy said as his hair was messed up and he was still breathing on the harder side while Claire pouted. "I miss you," her lower lip trembled, and Troy closed his eyes. "I know, baby, I miss you too. Tomorrow." He reminded her.

"No, today! I want to come to the house today." The tears started as I leaned into the frame so Claire could see me as well. "Baby, it's your mom's day. We already agreed that tomorrow I would get you a little early since we haven't been able to hang out this week." Troy told her and she only melted into more hysterics. Troy exhaled a breath of air trying to find a resemblance of patience. "Claire, I will see you tomorrow morning bright and early. I have plans tonight. It is just better if you stay with mommy." I rubbed Troy's arm as I knew this was hard on him. I gave him a sideways look and he shook his head.

"I just want to hug you," she cried again, and Troy rubbed his forehead, "Tomorrow. We have the whole day planned together. I promise, Claire. I love you so much. You know that right?" Claire sniffled and nodded her head as those blue eyes stared at her dad. "We are going to be together all weekend before you have to go back to mommy's house. What did you do with her last night?" Troy distracted her as he got her talking about something else. This seemed to help her as Troy engaged and I knew based on the time that we were not going to finish what we started earlier. I waved good-bye to Claire and told her I loved her before I headed to the bathroom.

It wasn't too much longer before Troy was in there and he let his head drop. "Don't do that." I told him. Troy shook his head, "I feel insanely bad. I am…" he released a really heavy breath, and those blue eyes were shining. "I know we need time together, but I know I also need time with her. I also hate that I couldn't finish what I started with you." I went over as I wrapped my arms around his torso. "Do not do that. She is safe and okay with her mother. It's not like she is in a bad situation. You and Eve agreed on a date. If she were sick or needed something – then I would encourage you but she's being a five-year-old. She probably is mad at Eve about something. I am not saying Claire doesn't need time with you – because she does. She will be okay waiting till tomorrow though."

Troy exhaled as he cupped my face and kissed me. "I love you, thank you for always being my reason." I gave him a tiny smile as I squeezed his hand. "I will always be your reason. Now, I think we need to get ready so we can get out of here and I swear if we don't have sex at some point today, I might combust." Troy just chuckled into my hair and then kissed my cheek before heading towards the shower.

I curled up with him as the sun was falling towards the earth and the moon was rising over head as Troy had done just about anything and everything for me today. I spent his time at film getting a massage and a facial with a pedicure. It was relaxing and exactly something that I needed. After that, he picked me up before we headed back to the house where a chef was waiting for the two of us. He cooked us dinner and then we went out back and just sat by the fire while the sun set. He had tried to shove all the quality time that we could into this time as he was drinking a whiskey while I drank a mocktail on the back deck where the fire was running, and we were buried under blankets.

"Three things that you want for our children," Troy spoke softly as he twirled my hair around his finger. I thought about it as I curled further into his side. "A family vacation every single year," I told him, and he nodded his head, "Done," I laughed, "I'm not done. I want to show them how real family's travel. Not all the private jets and the big fancy hotels. Some of my favorite memories were the road trips and staying in motels with pools outside. Now, I might bend on the hotel part but road trips and camping and normal people things. We can throw in lavish trips but…" I shrugged my shoulders. "I want all those fun memories. I want my kids to remember they are lucky." Troy nodded in agreement as he squeezed my shoulder. "I agree. I want to raise our kids humbly. I want to show them to volunteer and to pick ways to help their community."

I laughed, "They better volunteer. That is one of the reasons we are together." I reminded him with a pinch to the abdomen and Troy chuckled. "They will be making blankets by three," we both laughed as I sighed as I tried to think of another one. "I want them to dream. I want them to have goals and aspirations. I want them to strive to be anything and authentically who they are. I want them to try hard in school, but school isn't everything." I paused as I thought about it. "I want them to know that their mental health is important, and that school isn't always the most important thing."

Troy swallowed as he captured my face and kissed me. "If there is anything I want to preach in this house is that mental health is important." Troy spoke as I hugged him. "You are important." I whispered into his ear, and he ran his hands over my back. "Did you ever feel like your family didn't listen to you with your anxiety? Did I not listen to you in high school?" I asked him and Troy shook his head. "No, my anxiety was never that bad during high school. It really was college and the higher levels of football that launched my anxiety. You have been the best with it, but I also tried to hide it for the longest amount of time."

"Please, never hide it. It's just you." I whispered to him, and he kissed the top of my head. "I promise, I won't. If anything, you made me realize that therapy and anxiety and all of that is so normal. Maybe not normal but something I cannot control. Not always, anyways. I want our kids to grow up knowing that our house is a safe place." I rubbed my lips together with a smile on my lips, "Good," I whispered to him. "That's what I want most of all. It all starts with us." I reminded him, "But I already know you know how to parent. I just hope I am half as good as you."

"Oh fuck, you will be." Troy said with a tiny laugh. "You are so good with Claire. She isn't even your child, and you do amazing with her. I have zero doubt you are going to be an amazing mother, Gabi." I let his words sink and as I gave a tiny smile, "I really hope so." Troy tipped my head backwards to face him, "No, none of that. No self-doubt. If there is one thing I want from you – is to have self-love to show our kids. You want to doubt the best parts of you and please don't. Love everything about yourself and love who you are. No shaming yourself, doubting yourself, or losing yourself. You tell me the moment you feel like you aren't you anymore. We will fix it. I'll get you out of here. We'll go to the Carolina's, and we'll be teenagers again. You are the most important thing to me, Gabriella Montez-Bolton."

The tears flowed.

Absolutely flowed down my face.

He wiped away as many as he could and then he kissed me. "Motherhood will change you in the best of ways, but it will also change things in ways you didn't expect. I want you running The Sunshine Pact. I want you achieving every single dream. I want you to be happy. Your wish is my command." I shut him up with a kiss as his mouth tasted of whiskey again. "I know football season is hard, but I hope every off-season is easy." I held his face in my hands as I kissed him. "I love you so much, I know this wasn't going to be easy, but I would do the hardest of things to have you."

A smile tipped on his lips as he rubbed my thigh, "I love you, baby. I love you far beyond my years and with everything that I have." I nuzzled my face into his neck as he held me against him. "What is something you want to do for you?" Troy asked me as we both stared up at the sky together. The stars twinkling and I shrugged, "I don't know. Starting The Sunshine Pact was a really big dream of mine, starting a family, marrying you, all of those were such important things to me. Now? I want to maintain and make sure The Sunshine Pact is successful for years to come. I want to set up a base in another part of the country to get those kids baskets." I thought about it for a minute as those were important to me but never important enough to come between my family.

"I also really want to find my niche outside of nursing that is me." I peered up at Troy as he blinked, "Yea? What do you want to do?" he asked me, and I shrugged. "I don't know. I don't want it to be a job. I want it to be something fun that I get to do outside of working or nursing. Could it just be going back to volunteering all the time? I loved it as a teenager. Especially the animal shelter with walking the dogs. Or I could learn to bake, or I can learn to take pictures, or I don't know. I don't know what I want it to be, but I think it's going to come to me eventually. Maybe I'll garden or maybe I'll become a reader. I just want to find something that makes me…me that is fun and exciting."

"You are fun and exciting." Troy pinched my side and I wiggled with a laugh. "I support you in any avenue that makes you happy." He kissed the top of my head and I sighed. I was content with him, and I knew that I just had to find the one thing that gave me an outlet. Now that I didn't have my own job and I wasn't doing all what I used to do – I had to find something to give me some of my own time. Yoga is hard because I didn't want people coming to my class because of who my husband was. I did teach a lot of the wives and that felt good to still use my skills, but it wasn't the same any more.

"After today, we have plans with Eve, Christian, and Jackson to go see Santa with Claire. I am going to take her out to dinner tomorrow night just the two of us for a little date and then I figured when we got home, we could make hot chocolate and watch a Christmas movie as a family." I smiled with a nod of my head. "I love that." I whispered to him. "Sunday, we have surprise plans." I blinked and I twisted to face him as he had that signature smile on his face. "What are you up to Troy Bolton?" I asked him and he shook his head, "You'll find out."

With that he kissed me.

And he didn't let me back up for air until I was yelling his name.

Saturday, December 3rd, 2022

Troy's POV

"Daddy!" Claire ran and I caught her easily as she wrapped her arms tightly around my neck. I closed my eyes and breathed her in so deeply. I missed her so fucking much it hurt. Her arms squeezed me back just as tight as I picked her up. "I don't want to ever go another day without seeing you." She mumbled and I shook my head softly, "I can't promise that baby, but you are stuck with me for a handful of days. Non-stop daddy and Claire time with Gabi mixed in," I smoothed her hair and kissed on her forehead as Gabi and Eve were chatting and laughing.

I tried to move Claire, but she clung to me, "Baby, I am just going to slide you to my side," I rubbed her back and she shook her head. I let her stay as I went over to greet Christian who was holding Jackson. "Thanks for arranging this. Claire has been talking non-stop about it, I think mostly because she knew that's when she was seeing you again," I laughed with a nod, "I was counting down the days myself." I couldn't believe my girl was going to be six in just a couple of months. She was starting school for real this summer. I wasn't sure what I was going to do with myself when she was in school every single day. I think I am going to hate sharing her with Eve even more.

"Who wants to go see Santa?" Gabi asked and Claire gasped, "Me!" she wiggled down and went running to grab Gabi's hand. Gabi got down to hug her and Claire buried her head into her shoulder. "I missed you, too." I smiled watching them together as Gabi squeezed her and then took her by the hand as we headed to our personal meeting with Santa. "Thank you, for allowing us to do this together." Eve spoke as we walked together as we watched our new significant others walk with our girl. I shrugged, "I told you Eve, we're doing this together. Claire is absolutely our priority and one of us shouldn't get to lose the magic of getting to do this with her the first time because we both know the second time wouldn't be as special."

Eve just gave a half smile, "I think we were always better friends," I laughed, "Yea, I agree. We're doing better at this part. How is Jackson and Christian?" I asked her as Christian opened the door. Eve nodded, "Good, they are both really good." I nodded as Claire shrieked and Jackson cried as Claire went running over to Santa while Jackson ran back to his dad screaming. I laughed as I went up behind Gabi as we had a photographer as well. Claire was already on his lap as I circled my arms around Gabi's neck pulling her back against my chest.

"I love watching her see you for the first time after a while and by a while I mean like two days," I chuckled as I kissed the side of her head. "I love seeing her love you." Gabi smiled while her hand rested on my arm crossed over her neck. "I heard your name is Claire," Claire nodded her head up and down with exaggeration. "Yes! That's my daddy, he plays football and that's my mommy, she works with Gabi who my daddy loves and then that's Christian who is my baby brother Jackson's daddy," Claire paused and leaned up towards Santa as I couldn't stop my laugh after listening to all of that. Santa raised an eyebrow towards her, "Sounds like you have a lot of people who love you." Claire nodded hard again, "But the one thing on my wish list at the very, very top is I want a baby brother or sister at daddy's house."

I felt Gabi hold her breath as Eve looked at Claire, "Claire," Eve spoke, and Claire swung her head towards her mom. "Eve," I called her name, and I shook my head, "It's okay," I told her as I squeezed Gabi's wrist. Claire looked at me and I smiled, "That's a good wish, Claire bear," I encouraged her to continue as Gabi tilted her head back to give me a smile. "She's going to be so excited," I nodded as I felt the overwhelming excitement to just tell her right now, but I knew Gabi wanted to make sure we got closer to 12 weeks. I kissed Gabi's neck, and I lifted my head to see Eve glancing at me before returning her focus back to Claire who was spouting off the rest of her wish list.

"I had cancer," Claire blurted, "but Gabi made it all better!" Gabi laughed, "No, Claire, you did all the hard work. I just helped with your medicine." I told her and Santa smiled as he was just as engaged with Claire. We all got a picture with Claire and Santa before Eve was able to get Jackson close enough to allow her to get some pictures of both of them and their family. "How about one big picture for Miss. Claire? I think she'll love it one day seeing her entire family in one picture." Gabi spoke and I knew I loved my girl something deep and fierce. We all squished in and then thanked Santa.

"Hopefully you get the girl what she wants," Santa said with a slight chuckle mostly meaning the first one. I turned to make sure everybody was out of ear shot and I gave him a smile, "She doesn't know it yet, but she'll know on Christmas that her number one wish is coming true." The Santa laughed and gave a big smile, "Good. She's going to be thrilled." I shook his hand and then signed an autograph as he signed an NDA. I thanked him before I caught back up with Claire and Gabi. Eve was in the back though and she stopped me.

"She's pregnant."

I paused as I turned and looked at her. She raised an eyebrow, "You would have shut that conversation down a hell of a lot faster if she wasn't." she crossed her arms across her chest and I just laughed, "Yes, she is. She's only 7 weeks pregnant. We are hoping to tell Claire around Christmas." Eve just gave me a smile and then she took me by surprise and hugged me. It was just a side hug but a hug none the less. "I'm really happy for you. I know how hard it was that Jackson wasn't yours and I know it all probably happened for bigger reasons, but I know that was probably one of the hardest parts for you." I paused as I let my eye drift to Jackson and Claire playing with each other. "Because I know how much you love Claire and how much you wanted another baby so. I am happy for the both of you."

"Thanks, Eve." I told her with a half-smile. Eve nodded as we caught up with the group and headed to grab lunch together. Claire was bundled up as we walked to our cars, "I want to ride with Daddy!" Claire yelled as Christian seemed to be guiding her towards their car, which was fine, we were going to the same place. She turned to run back towards me, but a car came flying out of nowhere. My eyes watched Claire as if it was happening in slow motion but all four adults at once yelled at her to stop as a car was coming. My heart rate picked up quickly as I picked up my pace in a jog as I went over to her, I squatted down to her level as I held her face in my hands. "Claire, baby, we're all going to the same place. It's okay if you want to ride with me but you cannot run in traffic," tears welled in her eyes, "We're just keeping you safe, baby. All you had to do was tell Christian that you wanted to ride with me and then wait right here for me."

She nodded her head, "I'm sorry, daddy," she pressed her face into my neck as I soothed her. I picked her up and kissed the side of her head. "It's okay baby," I took her to our car as I put her in her booster seat as my heart was still racing. The car had been coming quickly and if she would have run out there? I would have shattered. I went to the driver's seat, but Gabi was already there. Her hand on my chest, "Go sit over there, I'll drive. Your hands are shaking." She said softly as I hadn't even noticed. I just nodded as I went over to the passenger seat as Gabi held my hand. "She's okay," Gabi gave a reassuring nod as I nodded, my eyes taking Claire in, and I felt my body relax as our car started moving.

The lunch place wasn't far and when we got out, I held onto Claire while we made our way inside. Eve gave her a tiny lecture and Claire hugged her, too. Jackson crawled in my lap at some point, and I didn't fight it as Gabi smiled at me. "I swear, you might just knock me up back-to-back," I laughed with a shake of my head. "Just wait until you are so tired," Gabi shrugged with a tiny smile as we ordered and ate lunch as my body returned to a normal pace. Fuck, I would do anything for Claire. I would have thrown myself out there if I had, too.

Claire shoved on Jackson, "Daddy," she whined, and I raised an eyebrow, "Claire, Jackson is sitting here." She shook her head as I knew she needed a nap. She didn't take consistent naps anymore but there were times and moments when she needed to at least lay down. The tears were welling in her eyes as Gabi took Jackson off my lap and I picked up Claire. She pressed her face into my chest as I rubbed her back. Eve and I both shared a look that meant we both knew she needed to rest for a bit. I handed my credit card to the waitress as she took it. "Troy," Eve and Christian said together, and I just shook my head. "My treat."

"Santa was your treat,"

"That was for the kids." I said while I signed the receipt as I stood up with Claire already asleep against my chest. "I'll have her facetime you tonight," I said to Eve, and she nodded her head as I carried her to the car. Gabi and I got her situated as I shut the door and then I pulled Gabi into my arms. "I love you," she whispered to me softly and I smiled, "I love you, more."

Monday, December 5th, 2022

8 weeks pregnant

Gabi's Birthday

Gabi's POV

Troy stroked my hand as I had woken up to balloons and breakfast with my favorite people in our bed. Claire snuggled up with me as she was babbled on about my birthday. I smiled at Troy as he shot me a wink as we did all the fun things with Claire this morning before taking her to spend the morning with Troy's parents. They were taking her out for a little show this morning. Troy didn't have to be at the facility until this afternoon which refreshing. "Do you think our baby is bigger?" Troy asked as we waited for the ultrasound tech.

"I hope so or things are not good," the nerves still pooled in my belly and then my chest just thinking about the possibility that one of these appointments could have bad news. Troy gave a half smile while he kissed my temple as the door propped open with our tech. She smiled, "Good morning and happy birthday, Gabi." My face flushed and I thanked her. She set up as it wasn't long before our baby was on the screen. Troy squeezed my hand as we could see it moving around and I quickly spotted the heartbeat allowing my whole body to relax.

"Best birthday present," I whispered, and Troy laughed, "I didn't think I could measure up to this." He kissed my hand when the noise of the heartbeat echoed throughout the room which only caused waterworks. Troy had tucked my phone up to record this video up on the ledge as I couldn't wait to share this with everybody. "Everything looks amazing, everything is measuring amazing, I don't have any concerns." The tech spoke up and I couldn't stop the cry that left my mouth. The cry of relief as I couldn't breathe until the next one. I knew we were getting close to graduating from our clinic and our weekly ultrasounds, but I wasn't mentally ready.

"El," his voice was soft, and I just looked over at him, "Happy tears, I promise," I tried to wipe them away, but Troy took over for me. "I know," he whispered to me as those blue eyes took me in. They finished the ultrasound as I sat up and Troy slid between my legs and wrapped me up into his arms. "I love seeing our baby," I whispered, and he laughed, "I know, me, too." He kissed on my temple and then my cheek as he tilted my head back. "C'mon, I want to take you somewhere." I shook my head at his surprises. Yesterday, we went to a little sleepy town with Claire as we did some Christmas shopping and did a family photoshoot in the snow.

It was honestly a perfect day. My sisters were all in town tonight and we were getting a family dinner once Troy was done at the facility. I changed back into my clothes before I hooked my hand into his as we had two weeks left here at the clinic to get us to ten weeks. After that – I would transfer my care back to my OB and I chose to just send it back to North Carolina. I would travel down there for appointments if we were still here and then once we are here all summer it would make it easier. I had to have an MFM as well since it was an IVF baby.

Troy escorted me to the car as he popped open the door and I climbed inside as he kissed my cheek. "Twenty-seven looks damn good on you," I laughed as I squeezed his hand as his fingers spread of my belly. "Shine on, sweet baby," he whispered, and I felt the emotion in my throat, "I love when you do that," Troy just gave me a smile as he climbed into the other side of the car before finding my hand. His thumb brushed my hand as he relaxed in the seat. I let my free hand look through the sonograms as we were getting quite a collection already. "Thank you for the past few days." I told him and Troy lifted an eyebrow before looking over at me as he eased on the brakes at a light. He pushed his sunglasses onto his head while he glanced at me. "Do not thank me for making time for you. I don't do it enough."

I objected, "No, you had every single right to want to do nothing but lay in bed and catch up on sleep. You made this whole weekend special for me. For Claire. You never once thought about yourself." I swallowed on the emotion that raised in my throat as Troy looked at the road and eased it forward. He took a minute to respond as he seemed to gather his words. He finally pulled the car over to a random parking lot and put in park before turning to face me. I watched him carefully as he blinked once as he opened his mouth and then shut it again. "El, baby, if I didn't want to spend time with you or Claire – I wouldn't but I do. I need you in my life. You said you were sorry for being needy but guess what? I needed you just as much. I needed to see Claire just as much. I missed you. I hate when we go through stretches like that where I am just watching, playing, and breathing football."

He reached forward and let his large hand cup my face, "Never thank me for doing the one thing a husband should do and that is make time for you." I swallowed and nodded my head as he leaned in to kiss me. His lips were quick, "We have to get back on the road but Gabriella, you are my top priority with Claire." He paused and a smile took over his face, "And our sweet little baby in here," his hand found my belly and I smiled as I let my hand rest on top of his. He finished the drive, and I couldn't stop my smile as he sent me a smile back.

"Happy Birthday, El, how about we go walk some dogs?" I opened my mouth and closed it before shutting my eyes. "Troy," he just laughed softly as I heard his door open before opening my door. He pulled me into a big bear hug, "If I remember correctly – this one is one of your favorites?" I just nodded with a tiny laugh as the tears were more overwhelming. He tugged me in and pressed his lips into my hair. "I love you; I love doing things with you and walking some dogs in the cold? Sounds like a dream." I just laughed as I hugged him and reached up for a kiss.

"I love you so damn much," He picked me up in the hug, "I love you, let's go act like we're 17 again, yea?" I just nodded with the biggest smile. He always knew the way to my heart. I think twenty-seven might be the best yet.

SURPRISE! Happy Wednesday! I really hope that you enjoyed the chapter after the long wait! Hopefully the next wait won't be as long but no promises hehe

Thank you so much for the patience!