Chapter 16 – Wishes Do Come True
Wednesday, December 21st, 2022
10 Weeks Pregnant
Troy's POV
I tossed the ball downfield during practice as Hanson took his route and leaped up to catch it. I grinned as we still had only lost the two games, Gabi was slowly starting to feel better with little to no morning sickness anymore. She was still tired but that was also slowly getting better. Claire was doing better with my current schedule as it had been our normal one. I was just looking forward to Christmas night. We had a day game on Christmas, but we were still getting Claire that night and we were going to tell her after the game. Gabi would be one day shy of 11 weeks and she was going to have one more appointment with her fertility clinic before being released back to her OB.
Everything was looking up right now and I couldn't wait for our off season to spend time as a family before we added a little one. I was bummed that I would be returning back to football shortly after the baby was born but I knew we would make it work. I would snuggle that baby so much. I pressed my lips together and got ready for the next drill. The only downside that was occurring right after Christmas was Claire had her next round of scans. Fuck, the thought brought turmoil to my stomach. I hated it. I hated that I couldn't get rid of that anxiety.
My therapist said I may never because that was my daughter and there was nothing, I could do to protect her with cancer. It was all a game of chance.
I hated it.
We ran the next play as this time I passed it off to Reggie for a running play as I clapped while he got through the opening. Practice went quickly after that as we finished up and then we had meetings. My body was dragging but I knew I had to get it ready as we were heading towards the play-offs. Luckily, with a win this week by us we could secure the first-round bye which would be amazing for everybody. After I showered and pulled on joggers with a Loyalist hoodie, I grabbed my cell phone to see a missed call from Gabi and a request to call her.
Fuck, those always made my stomach roll. I called her and she answered fairly quickly, "Troy?" her voice shook, and I closed my eyes. Do not panic. Do not panic. "El, baby, what's wrong?" I asked her as I ducked into an empty conference room. She laughed after she was done, and I felt some of my body relax. "Good Morning America called me this morning. They want to do a story on The Sunshine Pact since we're close to giving out our 250th basket." I felt my chest warm with the news and everything in my body relaxed because she was fine.
"Yea? That's freaking awesome, El." I glanced up at the clock to see our meeting was starting soon but I didn't want to rush Gabi. "I know, I was in shock when I answered the phone call. They called Mandy first who gave me a heads up to answer the phone and I was just…" I could see the flush of her cheeks and the smile on her lips from there. "They also want to talk about us and Claire. I told them I had to ask you first." My heart squeezed, always worried about us. "Gabi, you protect Claire more than I protect Claire with the world. Whatever you think is right." She exhaled as the QB coach called my name.
"Baby, I gotta go to my meeting but I will see you soon. We'll celebrate tonight. It's just the two of us." Claire was with Eve until Christmas and my heart fucking ached knowing that I was going days without my girl. I already planned to facetime her later tonight. "Sounds like a plan and it's not just two…" I smiled, "Yea, the three of us." I hung up bidding her love before I went to the meeting. I was relaxed as we went over the game plan for Christmas. I hated that we were playing that day, but it was part of the job. We had the midafternoon game. It had been our plan to tell Claire on Christmas Eve but once we found out games and everything – it was just going to be better to do it after the game.
Rolling my lips together I went to get treatment after our meeting and then grabbed some food for my ride home. I wasn't in my car for two minutes before Eve was calling. I groaned as I picked up the phone call, "Yea?" I asked as Claire always facetimed me and didn't call me. Eve laughed, "Don't sound so happy to talk to me." I rolled my eyes, "What can I do for you, Eve? It's been a long day." I rubbed my eyes as Eve gave another laugh. "What time did you plan on getting Claire on Christmas?" she asked me, and I hesitated, "We play at three." I reminded her because I could feel it in my bones to what she wanted. She wanted to keep her longer.
"Can Gabi just pick her up at two?" I balked, "Eve, if she picks her up at two then I don't get to spend any time with her that day except for two hours after the game. If Gabi picks her up earlier at least I can see her some before the game." I stopped at a light as I rubbed my face with both hands. "Troy, I want to have my daughter, too."
"You have her all-day Christmas Eve and until noon on Christmas. What about that isn't enough?" I threw back at her. "I know I am the one with a game but that doesn't mean I get less time. We have a signed agreement, Eve." Eve huffed from the other end of the phone. "We never go by it anyways, Troy."
"Yes, we do. Almost weekly. We just also bend to help each other." I reminded her and she didn't say anything for a moment. "If Gabi picks her up at noon, I want her on Wednesday night." I bit down hard on my lip to refrain from saying anything stupid. "If? Eve…you will have her your normal days this week plus almost all of Christmas. Why do you want her so long?"
"I want her to have time to play with her toys." Eve admitted and I knew what she was saying. She didn't want to have to ship her off right after opening presents. "I get that, Eve. I do. How about I bring her over to play Tuesday afternoon. I think we're taking her to Gabi's ultrasound on Tuesday because she wanted to see the baby a long time ago. After that – I can take Gabi to lunch for a little date while she gets to play with her toys. I want time with her, too. Next year you get to have her in the afternoon." I reminded her of the fair deal that we made months ago. Eve sighed, "This is the hardest part."
I could hear Eve's tears. I was with her too long to not know when she was crying. "I know, Eve. Why do you think I'm fighting this hard just to hug her before my game? We're really doing our Christmas on the 26th but it's not the same." Eve sighed as we finished our conversation as she agreed to let Gabi come get her at noon. I hung up as I pulled into the garage. Exhaustion setting in deep into all of my bones. I pushed open the car door and grabbed my bags before heading inside as Ember and Gabi were laying on the floor together.
Ember bounced up to greet me as I rubbed her head, "Hi sweet girl," Gabi was Facetiming somebody and then I heard Scar's voice. "When are you coming down to the beach house? It looks good." Scarlett told her and I smiled as I sat on the floor next to her with a groan. "Oof, Bolton, are you old?" Scarlett accused and I laughed, "Yea, I am." I laid flat as Ember licked my face and I laughed rolling over to use Gabi as protection. Gabi laughed causing the vibration in my chest. I kissed the back of her neck as Scar smiled at the two of us. "To answer your question, I will be down there after the New Year. I am switching my OB care to there since we will probably have this baby while we are still at the beach house." My hand rested on her belly that was absolutely non-existent, but we saw that wiggling little bean inside of her yesterday.
"Oh yay! When is the house supposed to be done?" Scar asked, "Early February. They are on track. I am going to check on the house and to go with Gabi."
"Good. Okay, I'll let you two love birds go. Say bye, Auggie!" Scar had Auggie wave, and I smiled waving back as once Gabi hung up, I had her pinned on her back as I devoured her mouth. "Noon on Christmas for Claire. Eve wanted me to have you pick her up an hour before the game." Gabi smiled as she let her hand rest on my face. "You want to see her before?" I nodded, "Ideally, I would like to see her before we go on the field. I want a few minutes with her. Not a few seconds." Gabi agreed as she kissed me again as I wedged myself between her legs.
"Miss me?" I nodded as I kissed her neck, "Always, baby. Always."
Sunday, December 25th, 2022
Gabi's POV
I finished wrapping Claire's gift as I knew she was going to be so excited tonight. I just truly hoped nothing happened from here on out. The baby had been growing properly with every single ultrasound and there was zero concern, but it was still early. I swallowed on the lump in my throat because I was excited for her to know. We were taking her to the ultrasound on Tuesday so she could see her sibling. Troy and I quickly agreed with Eve there was no "half" siblings for Claire. They were her brothers and sisters. If there was anything we wanted to do as a family was make sure all children were accepted by all four adults.
We would always be a blended family, but it was important to all of us. It was the only thing we were opening tonight as we were going to celebrate our Christmas tomorrow morning. Troy was insistent that we do this on Christmas though. I was dressed for the game today as Troy made me promise that I would stay inside as it was going to be cold. I tried to argue but he pressed his lips to my forehead and silenced me. "Please, baby, it's going to be cold and snowy. I need you and our baby healthy." I couldn't disagree with him as I promised to spend majority of the game inside.
He just rolled his eyes and I saw him shoot a text to his family. My phone rang and I picked it up, "Hey," I answered Eve, "Hi, did you call?" I nodded. "I was seeing if you three want to come to the game tonight. Spend more time with Claire on Christmas. I think we should try to spend time together as a whole family. Individual time but maybe we can always do Christmas Eve dinner or Christmas Dinner as a family. A new tradition." I proposed to her. I had a gift for Jackson that I wanted to give him anyways. "Really? Do you have room in the suite."
"Yea, none of my family came down. They stayed in North Carolina. We are going to see them after the New Year." Eve hesitated, "You wouldn't mind?"
"No! Eve…" I breathed, "I know how hard separate holidays has to be. I think Troy was thankful he was playing because it's keeping him distracted but if we can find ways for both of you to spend time together with her? I want you two to be friends. I want your kids to see that even though marriage didn't work – friendship does." Eve laughed, "Fuck, I hate that I love you." I couldn't stop my laugh as she agreed but they would come up later. "Are you still telling her today?" I smiled as I let my hand drift to my abdomen. "Yes, after the game. It's just going to be three of us."
"She's going to be so excited."
"I know," I whispered as I had just started posting the beginning of our journey on TikTok to IVF round two. "Well, I will see you in a bit." I nodded as I finished getting ready and headed to my car after letting Ember out one more time. Troy family was meeting us at the game, but they also were joining us for Christmas dinner tomorrow. It wasn't long before I was pulling into Eve's house. I turned off the car as I didn't have my door open before Claire was bounding down the stairs towards me. I grinned at the sight, and I swept her up into a tight hug. "Hi Claire bear, did you have such a fun Christmas morning?" she nodded as she dragged me inside to show me her favorite toys. I let her play for ten minutes before I had to usher her out the door so Troy can spend ten minutes with her.
Eve said she got up early and was probably going to be tired, so I knew we weren't going to get a lot of time after the game. Once she was buckled in, I made our way to the stadium, and it wasn't long before we were in the family room waiting on Troy. A few other kids were milling around, and Troy came through with his sweats and hoodie on. Claire grinned and ran up to him, "Daddy!" he kissed on her and smiled, "Hi Claire, Merry Christmas." She grinned wide as she told him all about the toys that Santa and mommy got her. "But no baby brother or sister," she pouted, and I saw the twitch of Troy's face, "Santa didn't bring one?" she shook her head. "I want a baby at your house." Claire pouted and Troy just chuckled kissing her temple. "I know, baby. Maybe one day. Also, Santa is coming a day late at our house so who knows what he'll bring tomorrow." Troy told her and her face light up for a moment. "But Santa may not be able to control that."
Claire just sighed heavily as Troy chuckled as I shot him a wink. He sat down with her as he waved his hand over for me to come closer. I sat down next to him as Troy let his hand run over my back as Troy talked to Claire about anything and everything for the small time that he had. "Afterwards, we are going to open one gift at home before going to bed. Then we can open all of our other ones tomorrow before daddy's family comes over for dinner." Claire nodded in agreement as she put both of her hands on his face and kissed his nose. "I love you, daddy."
"I love you, too, sweet girl. Be good for Gabi, okay? Make sure she doesn't sit outside." Claire giggled, "Gabi likes to be outside." Troy chuckled, "Yea, she does. Silly, huh?" Claire nodded in agreement as he had to go as he kissed Claire one more time before kissing me and heading back into the locker room. I smiled knowing that next year we would have a baby with us, too. My hand rested on my belly as we walked together and into the booth. I got Claire some lunch and settled her in as Lucas, Bethany, Troy's parents, and all of our friends.
Claire ended up taking a nap on the couch as Lucas swept me up in his arms, "Feeling good still?" I nodded, "Yea, I actually feel great. We are very excited to tell Claire tonight." Lucas smiled, "I bet. Troy is chomping at the bit. He pretty much told me nothing the month of July. He wants to spend every single day with you and that baby until training camp." I smiled with a tiny nod, "He told me. I want that time with him, too." Lucas squeezed me as we watched the team's warm-up. I glanced at Claire as I was going to run down and wish him good luck. I walked with Amber as we headed down together and we waited as I watched Troy do his warm-up.
He caught sight of me at one point as him and Hanson ran over. "No Claire?" he asked as he bent to kiss me quickly. "No, she passed out. She probably needed a nap as Eve said she was up early wanting to open presents." Troy let a smile raise on his lips, "You know what? I think we win this Christmas. She's going to cry." I laughed with a nod, "I think we all are. Go get a win for us so we can go home." He nodded with a grin as he kissed me again before running off. Amber gave me a sly smile as she let her hand rest on her growing belly.
"I can't wait to watch him with a baby," Amber whispered, "Who? Hanson?" Amber laughed, "No, I've watched him twice already. Troy. I've only seen him with toddler Claire. I started dating Hanson when Claire was almost one. I want to see him with that tiny scrunchy newborn." I smiled because I also couldn't wait to see it. I couldn't wait to see him rock a baby to sleep and kiss it good night. To watch him be a dad all over again. Luckily, I was pregnant or that picture alone probably would have gotten me pregnant.
We made it back to the booth as Claire was up playing with Bethany and I went to the outdoor portion, "No, no, under strict instructions. It's going to start dumping snow." Lucas pulled me back and I grumbled as he put me in the very first row with no blocked view. "Sit." I just rolled my eyes as I watched the opening drive and smiled because this was a good Christmas.
Troy's POV
"I'm driving you home," I nuzzled Claire as we had won but it was gross game. It snowed the entire game dumping inches upon inches of snow, and it was nasty cold. "Troy, I can drive home." I looked up at her and I shook my head. "I know you can drive but I will feel better if I drive you two home." I gave her a pointed look. The roads were going to be disgusting and it's not like we had different cars but just knowing that I had both of them in my car made me feel better. Plus, it might take forever to get home and I wanted to spend as much time with Gabi and Claire as possible. Gabi just glanced at me, "I'm not tired."
"This isn't about that. It's about the 12 inches of snow that just dumped over the last three and half hours. Please, El? If it takes an hour to get home, I'd much rather spend that hour together." she sighed but just nodded as Claire grinned, "I like when we all ride together." Gabi just shook her head with a laugh as I had to go do press really quick and then we could leave. I kissed Gabi's warm face and then headed to finish up. It only took twenty more minutes before I was escorting Gabi and Claire to the car. I was giddy with excitement for Claire to finally know.
I made sure Claire was securely buckled into the back as I put a blanket over her lap, and I kissed her cheek. "C'mon, we have the one gift to give." I wiggled my eyebrows towards her, and she clapped her hands excited. Gabi was in her seat, and I opened up the passenger door and she raised an eyebrow as I grabbed her seatbelt and securely made sure it was also over her lap. "Troy," she gave me a warning glance and I just laughed as I snuck a kiss on my way back. "I would have put it on."
"And I need to know that you are both safe in the car." Gabi just rolled her eyes, and I couldn't stop my laugh as I gave her another kiss before shutting her door. I went to my side, buckled my seat belt, and we made the slow venture home. Gabi turned on Christmas music as it was still spilling some snow but not nearly the rate that it was coming down earlier today. Gabi and Claire sang Christmas Carols with each other as I smiled watching them. My anxiety crawled up my body the entire drive knowing that I was responsible for each of them with this terrible weather. My fingers tightened on the steering wheel, and I focused on the road the entire time and it wasn't great, but we did make it home after only fifteen extra minutes to the drive.
I eased the car into the garage, and I exhaled and relaxed back into the seat. Gabi squeezed my thigh as my anxiety was slowly going back down from that drive. "Claire, go put your PJs on," Gabi instructed her as she said she was going to just pop a pizza in the oven, and we could watch a Christmas movie together. It was a good idea and I followed them both inside as Claire went running. Gabi found a Christmas movie, I turned on the fireplace, and I pre-heated the oven as Claire came sliding back. Gabi grabbed the package as Gabi sat her down in front of the Christmas tree and took a few pictures of her.
"Can I guess?" Claire asked and Gabi let a bubble of a laugh leave her mouth. "Sure," Claire grinned, "The really good American doll outfit I have been wanting," I laughed as I sat in front of her as Gabi hooked her phone up to record. We were never sure what we would use for film, but I knew I would love having all of it as well. Gabi sat down, "Try another guess," Gabi encouraged her, and Claire thought about it for a moment. "A game for us to all play." I laughed and shook my head, "How about you just open it?" I told her as her hair was frizzy but still in two pigtails from Eve this morning.
Gabi told me about Eve being in the box tonight with all of them and I loved her. Fuck, I loved that she tried to give Eve time with her. Claire ripped open the wrapping paper and started to open the box. Gabi squeezed my hand with excitement as I watched Claire pull the lid off and on top was a pink t-shirt. Claire frowned for a moment as she picked it up and then there was a book along with a pair of sunglasses and finally at the bottom was a sonogram picture. Claire opened the t-shirt first as she blinked, "Big Sis" she read it off and Gabi leaned her head into my shoulder.
"Mommy should have given this to me," she grumbled, and I couldn't help but laugh as she picked up the book. It was Little Miss, Big Sis as she looked up at me. "Daddy, what is it." She put her hands on her hips and I couldn't help but smile. "What's that on the bottom?" I asked her and she moved the sunglasses that were bedazzled with big sis in the corner. She grabbed the picture and squinted for a moment, "Mommy has these of Jackson," she said looking at me and I laughed, "Yea, and why would daddy and Gabi have one?" I leveled with her as she was thinking and then I saw those blue eyes well with tears.
"Is there going to be a baby at daddy's house?" her voice quivered, and I couldn't stop my own tears as I nodded. Claire squealed as she launched herself at me as Gabi laughed next to me. "Gabi is going to have a baby this summer." I told her as I squeezed her extra tight to me. Claire pulled away from me before grabbing Gabi in a big hug. Gabi was crying as she held onto Claire, "Wishes do come true," Claire cried, and I couldn't stop the tears if I damn tried. Gabi rubbed her back as she kissed on her. Claire pulled away to wipe her tears and she looked at me, "C'mere Claire," I pulled her into my arms as I kissed the side of her head.
"I know you are already a big sister to Jackson but now you get to have another baby this summer at our house. I need you to know that you are still and will always be very, very important to me. A new baby will never change that. I love you so, so much. Do you understand?" she nodded as she kissed my cheek. "Mommy loves Jackson and I the same." A smile stretched on my mouth, "I bet she does, and I am going to love you and Gabi and I's baby the same exact way. Nothing will change with how often you see me. We will still have Claire and daddy dates, yea?" she nodded her head. "But sometimes we'll have Claire, Daddy, and the baby dates." Claire giggled with a nod.
"Plus, I am going to need all the help. I bet you are so, so good with the babies." Gabi told her and Claire grinned as Claire nodded. "Is it a boy or a girl?" Claire asked and Gabi smiled, "We don't know, and we won't find out until the baby is here." I told her and she frowned. "Really?" Gabi nodded, "Really. You will be one of the very first to know there. What do you want? A sister or a brother?" Claire thought about it for a minute as she tapped her chin. "I think I want a sister. I already have a brother." Gabi smiled as Claire asked all of her questions and we answered all of them. The giddiness on her face, the anticipation that she was going to get one of the things she really wanted the most.
"When will the baby actually be here? How many days?" Claire asked and Gabi smiled as she slid over on her phone. "209 days until the due date but babies can come earlier or later sometimes." I grunted, "We can't do later. Not if we're having the baby in North Carolina." Gabi squeezed my knee, "We'll talk to my OB. I bet I can convince her to let my go a little early if the baby doesn't say otherwise." The pressure in my chest to how close she was going to be to training camp was worrying. I hated that it wasn't going to be a little earlier, but we would make it work.
"Can we make a count down?" Gabi agreed they could make one tomorrow. I smiled watching as I got up to go put the pizza in the oven and Claire and Gabi got cozy on the couch together. "When will you have a belly like mommy did with Jackson?" Gabi shrugged, "I don't know. It might be a few more weeks or months. It just depends. Hopefully in a few weeks we can feel the baby." Claire grinned up at her, "Can I feel?" Gabi brushed his hair back with a smile, "Of course! You have a very important job being the big sister." Gabi tapped her nose and Claire curled into her body. Gabi practically cocooned around her as if she was her mother. Protecting her. Making her feel safe. I swallowed on the lump in my throat because I always knew Eve and I were not forever. I just was always so worried how Claire would take my next relationship. Gabi and Claire's relationship blew all things out of the water.
"Can I name the baby?" Claire asked and I laughed, "We'll discuss it. What is your top name?" Claire thought about it and grinned, "What about if it's a boy what about Max! I have a friend at the playground named Max." Gabi gave me a smile, "We'll talk about it. If it's a girl Gabi and I already have a name."
"You do? What is it?"
"A secret," I told her as I connected with Gabi as Claire pouted. I kissed her head as I went to check on the pizza and I watched from the kitchen as Gabi and Claire whispered about something together. Gabi grinned at her as she brushed her hair and kissed on her face. I took a picture for my phone as Claire looked up to ask her something. Gabi showed her something on her phone and I smiled. Seeing those two together is everything I ever dreamed of. Four years ago – I would have laughed. Yet here I was. Gabi was loving my daughter as if she was her daughter. Sharing secrets and talking. It warmed my chest, and I knew everything would be okay. I smiled. Miracles really do come true.
Monday, December 26th, 2022
11 Weeks Pregnant
Gabi's POV
"Grandpa Marco! I'm getting another baby!" Mark laughed as he picked up Claire, "Yea? Is daddy finally going to have another baby?" Troy rolled his eyes, and I smiled leaning into him as he had a short practice today but today – we got up early and did Christmas. Claire was all giggles and happiness but all she really wanted to talk about was the baby. She called and told Eve today and she was excited for her. Claire was going to be a great big sister. Troy kissed the top of my head, "Yea and I really hope it's a girl. I already have a brother." Mark laughed with a shake of his head as he sat her down.
Mark brought me into a hug, "How are you feeling?"
"Good! I really haven't had many symptoms. A few days feeling sick, a few headaches, mostly fucking exhausted." Troy laughed, "That isn't a joke. She has been really tired." Sara hugged me as Troy kissed her cheek. We all shared a smile as Gigi and Lucas weren't far behind. We were doing a Tuesday Christmas with my entire family at my parents' house when we go down for my first appointment with my OB down there. I was also going to see an MFM down there as we had to do a few extra scans since our baby was an IVF baby.
Lucas hugged me and Gigi was glowing with Claire about the news of another baby. "At least we know this one is Troy's," Lucas joked, and Troy threw him a murderous glance. I couldn't stop my laugh as Lucas ducked his head as Troy chased after him. Sara rolled her eyes while yelling at her boys. "I know I am the favorite," Gigi said, and I couldn't stop my laugh. Claire wrapped her arms around my leg as I kissed her head, "I think I told everybody," I laughed, "Yea? Did you?" she nodded against my legs as I felt his eyes on the two of us. He had been doing that a lot more recently. Watching the two of us together and I think it was because it made him happy. Our relationship was strong, and I knew Claire felt safe with me.
She yawned pressing her face into my belly as I ran my hand through her hair. "Already sleepy?" she nodded, "it's been busy," she sassed back to me, and I couldn't stop my laugh. "Yea, it has been. Where is Bethany?" I asked her and she went running off to find her to compare toys. I shook my head as Troy came over and wrapped me up in his arms. "I love watching you, both." I smiled, "I know. I catch you all the time. I love watching you with her." Troy kissed on my neck and Lucas pushed him. "Leave your poor wife alone. You knocked her up let her be." Troy sucked in a laugh as he looked at Lucas.
"Are you trying to be murdered today?" Lucas smirked as Sara came in between the two of them again. The house was in full swing chaos as dinner was being served, the kids were being wrangled and it was fun. It was good for all of us as Troy never got to spend that much time with his family in the season. Claire sat in the seat next to me as she ate her dinner. "Claire, you should tell your dad and Gabi to name the baby Lucas if it's a boy," Claire screwed up her nose, "No, I don't like that name." Troy nearly spit his dinner out as Lucas frowned.
"Claire, I'm hurt." He rubbed his chest and Claire shrugged as she went back to eating her dinner. "Freaking five-year-old and their opinions." Lucas grumbled and Troy couldn't stop laughing. I smiled with a shake of my head, "Claire, be nice." I reminded her and she shrugged, "I think Max is better." I laughed, "I don't think Max is going to be it, but we can discuss other names, yea?"
"Do you two still have the secret hidden girl's name?" Gianna asked and Troy grinned over at me, "Yea, it's a secret." I smiled with a shake of my head, "It will remain a secret until we're ready to share it." Troy said with finality, and I just shook my head with a tiny laugh. It wasn't a mind-blowing name. We were arguing when the name occurred. Yet, it always remained my number one on my girl's name list. Some would argue it would be better for a boy, but Troy and I knew deep down we could see a little girl with dark hair and blue eyes. It would fit.
Dinner was easy before we were sitting around and opening presents. Troy and I got each other one gift. Mine to him was an organized daddy and Claire day. Everything was set up for the two of them to enjoy – even pictures of just the two of them. Something they deserved to have. Especially before the baby was here. After that – it would be the baby, Claire, and Troy on those days. Troy got me a diamond necklace but with what would have been the birthstone for the baby we didn't have. I swallowed when I opened it as he squeezed my knee. "I'll add to it when this baby shows up and I'll add to it every single transfer/pregnancy. If you have 13 – you have 13." I cried after that, and I let my fingers graze it on my neck.
It was beautiful and I needed to figure out a way to include Claire on it. She may not be my blood, but she was a part of me. Claire was thrilled with everything she got and her and Bethany tore into packages. Tears filled my eyes thinking that two years ago I didn't even know Claire Bolton. Her father was a distant dream, and I was living a life that was lacking something. I didn't know my entire world would be up-ended three months later when Claire Bolton became my patient and later my world. Two years and my entire life had changed so drastically and quickly.
And I didn't regret a single minute of it.
Every moment of hate.
Every moment of forgiving.
Every moment of tears and desperation to find what was right.
It all made sense and felt right. My hand rested on my flat belly, and I knew…I knew we were so blessed to be right here. I couldn't stop the overwhelming emotion as I stood up to leave the living room. I went out back as I was met with icy cold air as the sob worked off my chest. "Whoa, El," Troy was right behind me, and I should have known. He always knows.
"These are happy tears," I covered my face as I tried to calm myself down. "Why are you crying so hard with happy tears, El, baby," his voice was soft, and he pulled my hands away from my face. Those blue eyes concerned as he was wiping tears away before just pulling me into a hug to let me compose myself. Once I was finally able to speak, I pulled back to brush a few tears away. "I was just thinking as I watched Claire that two years ago, I never even knew her. I didn't know who she was. I didn't know she was the sassiest, but sweetest, and the gentlest girl there is. I didn't know her likes and dislikes. I didn't know anything about her but now she is just everything to me. I know she isn't mine and she never will be, and I would never take that from Eve." I paused as Troy just stared at me with those wide blue eyes.
"But I just know that somewhere inside of her she is a piece of mine. I would throw myself in front of anything to protect her. She means so much to me and it hasn't been two years. Two of the hardest years of my life with everything. It's been such a whirlwind and I just…I am so damn lucky to be right here. On the other side. Pregnant and married and…" I shook my head as the tears happened again. "If you would have asked me two years ago if I was right here, I would have laughed and laughed and…I wouldn't believe anybody. I am so glad I am though."
Troy pulled me into a bone crushing hug as I could feel his own tears, "I love you, El. I love you so much and I know it's been a wild ride. I am thankful you love her so much because I don't know what I would have done if that would have happened. You two not liking each other." I wiped my eyes and shook my head, "It's not possible. She's you, Troy Bolton. I couldn't hate you on my worst days. There's no way I could hate the tiniest version of you." Troy smiled brushing away the last of the tears. "It was just such overwhelming feelings of love and happiness. I think there was some pregnancy hormones mixed in there." Troy chuckled as he kissed me once, twice, and then a third time before letting his forehead tip onto mine.
"That's why I always knew you were it. You are just…fuck, my everything." I kissed him again and wrapped him into a hug. Thankful that I was right here.
Tuesday, December 27th, 2022
Troy's POV
Claire sat on my lap as she was still confused on what we were doing. It was Gabi's last appointment at the fertility clinic as she was officially 11-weeks and in the next couple of weeks she would go back to her regular OB care. "Daddy," Claire wiggled on my lap, and I laughed, "Patience, baby. It's a surprise." I told her which only got a grumpy sigh in reply. Gabi smiled as I reached over for her hand as I squeezed it. We had snuck in the back entrance like normal and I was nostalgic that we wouldn't be back here for a while. The sonographer knocked on the door and pushed it open as Gabi greeted her.
"Good morning, who do we have here?" Claire laughed, "I'm Claire!" I chuckled kissing her head, "This is big sister Claire," Marcy grinned, "Welcome Claire! Do you want to see your baby brother or baby sister?" Claire gasped and nodded, "Can we?" she nodded with a laugh as Claire moved to face me. "Dad! We can see the baby?" I laughed nodding, "We can. That's why we are here. We can also hear the heartbeat," Claire clapped her hands together as Gabi smiled watching her. Gabi rolled her shirt up and Claire watched intently focusing on Gabi.
"Just a little cold," Marcy told her, but it didn't stop her flinch. She waved the wand around on her belly before the picture appeared and from our first ultrasound to now – it was amazing to see how much the baby has changed. Especially seeing it in a petri dish to now. "Claire, there is your sibling." Marcy pointed out the head, the legs, and the heart to her. Claire grinned, "Can we see if it's a boy or girl?" Marcy knew that we weren't finding out and Marcy grinned, "Nope. Not yet. I don't believe your mom and dad are finding out until the baby is here."
Claire pouted as I laughed watching her, "She clearly doesn't approve of our decision." Marcy laughed as we heard the heartbeat, and I smiled looking at our baby on the screen and I had my baby in arms. I kissed her cheek as she smiled bouncing on my legs watching the screen. "Claire, do you want to print some pictures? You have to share them with mom and dad though." Claire nodded with a big grin as she popped off my lap and went over to Marcy. I reached over to kiss Gabi's forehead as we watched Claire push a few buttons as pictures came out. I snuck my phone out to take a picture of her. Marcy handed her one and, in the corner, it read Claire's sibling. "Daddy!" she showed me, and I smiled, "Yea, is that your sibling?" she nodded before turning around to hug me. I chuckled as I kissed the back of her head as Marcy smiled before heading back to get Dr. Monty.
"Claire, wasn't that cool?" Gabi asked. She wiped off her belly and sat up as Claire climbed up next to her. "Can we do it again?" Gabi laughed, "We probably won't do another scan of the baby until after football season and we are at the beach house." Claire pouted, "That is so far away." I shook my head as Gabi pointed things out on the sonogram to Claire. I crossed my legs over my knee as I watched the two of them. There was always the small fear that something would drive a wedge between their relationship. It just got strong and stronger though. I also feared the having a baby with Gabi would change everything.
A knock came on the door as Dr. Monty and Indy came in, "Oh my, who is this sweet girl?" Dr. Monty asked and Claire giggled as I beckoned her over to me. "She's okay," Dr. Monty said with a smile as she clung to Gabi's side. "I'm Claire the big sister!" Dr. Monty laughed, "Did you see the baby moving in Gabi's stomach?" Claire nodded her head with a big smile. "They told me I couldn't find out what it is. I want a sister," A laugh came from Indy and Dr. Monty, "Well your dad and Gabi didn't want to find out so it's a secret for all of us." A smile popped on her face as she leaned into Gabi.
"Gabi, everything looks so good. We are so happy that you are graduating from here!" Gabi had tears in her eyes as I knew it had been such a long journey from when we started in July. "I am sad to be leaving but I know it's good that we are." Dr. Monty agreed, "I have sent all your records to your OBs office in North Carolina. Is that still your plan?" Gabi nodded, "Yea, I won't be leaving North Carolina without a baby." I smiled as hopefully we had time there together, but I wasn't holding my breath. Dr. Monty grinned, "A beach baby, huh?" Gabi nodded. "Somebody better retire there," I chuckled with a shake of my head, "We'll figure it out."
I would have to convince Eve to move to North Carolina.
But that was so far in the future.
"Do you have any questions? You'll continue some of your injections until 13-14 weeks but that is standard. Your OB is aware. Once you hit that your injections are done." Gabi nodded as she pulled her lip in for a moment, "How long is recommended between babies'?" My eyes snapped over to hers because we never talked about after this one. We just were one at a time here.
"We suggest and recommend waiting an entire year before starting another IVF cycle. If you end up needing a C-Section we typically recommend 18 months but obviously, things aren't always ideal. If there are reasons you need to do it earlier, we can." Gabi shook her head, "I would pretty much wait a year anyways, but I just wanted to know. I wouldn't mind having two closer together in age." I just blinked and she smiled, "I will definitely have an earlier off-season baby next time around because we will start transfers a lot sooner." Dr. Monty laughed as this was a bonus. We got to choose when we did transfers. We weren't just waiting month to month.
Dr. Monty finished and we headed out back through the exit as we got in the car. "Claire, you are going to hang out with mommy for a little bit. She wanted you to have some time to play with your toys there. Gabi and I have an errand to run anyways," Gabi shot me a look and I just grinned back at her. "Okay, do I get to sleep at your house tonight?"
"Yea, I'll pick you up after a few hours. You are staying with me tomorrow, too. It's daddy's long week." I reminded her. She was buckled in and was still clutching the sonogram picture. I kissed her cheek as I slid into the driver's seat. "Two close together in age, huh?" I asked her and she shrugged, "I just wanted to know my options but…" Gabi nibbled on her lip. "Yea, I think I want two of them closer in age. I love being close to my sisters and you and Lucas have such a good relationship. Why wouldn't I?" I smiled as I squeezed her knee. "We need to have this one and survive the first year, first," Gabi laughed, "I know, but like I said, I wanted my options."
I shook my head as I took the path to Eve's house, and I pulled up as I walked Claire to the door. "Mommy! Look!" Claire showed her the sonogram and Eve smiled, "Is that your baby brother or sister?" she nodded, and Eve gave her a hug and kiss. "I'll be back in like three hours. She hasn't had lunch." Eve nodded, "Thank you for this," I gave her a smile, "I don't mind sharing her, Eve. It doesn't have to be strict, but I need the time I can get with her." Eve nodded tucking a piece of hair behind her ear. "I understand, I just hate it." I nodded in agreement as I waved and headed back to Gabi.
"Where are we off too?"
I just grinned as I started driving to Brookline. It was only ten minutes from Eve's house as I pulled up to the vacant lot that was a rare fucking find in this area. "Troy," her voice knew why we were here as I pulled the car down the gravel that was already tree lined. "Seven acres, privacy, and plenty of room for anything we could dream of." I was quiet and she blinked, "I'd only be twenty minutes from the stadium, Eve is 10 minutes down the road. Her private school is just ten minutes from here. It checks all of our boxes. Not far from the airport. It doesn't get much better than this."
"Did you already buy it?" she asked, and I laughed, "No, not yet. I have them holding it but…I think this is it, El. I want to build a home together. I want to put everything we want. I can put a half-size football field to have people over here. We can build a gym. I'll have an office; we can build an annex for The Sunshine Pact. We can do whatever the fuck we want and…it's expensive but I made so much money last year that I will never spend it all. We can do this." Gabi inhaled as we both got out of the car as I showed her around. Tears filled her eyes, "Yea, let's do it."
I picked her up in a hug, "We need to get some plans together. I have a builder in mind, and we can see some of his houses but I'm thinking we custom do this. It's going to take longer but my contract has 7 years left. I will probably go longer if I am physically able, and I plan on staying here. Even if we did move to North Carolina after I retire – I probably would keep a house in Boston. I don't know what Eve will do. I don't know the future and I want a good house for us here. Something that is ours and we built. Enough room for however many kids you want."
Gabi swallowed before turning to me and hugging me, "Yes, I want all of this." I kissed her as her eyes grew wide with excitement. "Might take a year and half to two years but this can be home." Gabi just grinned. "I cannot wait."
Sigh. This really is one of my favorites. I hope you all enjoyed and thank you for the patience in the updates! Hopefully it was worth the wait!
Also…just planning future of this story and how many kids do you see these two having? How many boys? How many girls? I have been playing around with their family for the future stories and I am so undecided ha! Give me your input! I do know what the first baby is though :-)
PLEASE REVIEW!
Next update (FOR SURESSSS): August 11th (probably a later update as well!)