Chapter 17 – Escape

Thursday, January 5th, 2023

Gabi's POV

12 Weeks Pregnant

I squeezed Troy's hand as we waited for Dr. Rich to come give Claire's report. Her blood work had been amazing the past three months and I had faith that everything was going to be okay. Claire was sitting on Eve's lap as she played on Eve's phone. Troy was bouncing his leg and I let my hand run over his thigh. "Troy," his eyes looked over at me as he had withdrawn the past couple of days. I knew the nerves were so hard for him coming into these days. Claire looked good though and Troy just sighed heavily, "I am just…"

"I know," I said quietly because between football, IVF, and Claire he was stretched thin and stressed. Dr. Rich came in and smiled, "All looks great." He started and Troy exhaled, "Nothing?" Dr. Rich shook his head. "That spot isn't there. I looked at the imagine about sixteen times and had several people compare. It probably was artifact. Her blood work is great. I am starting to feel comfortable letting her go six-months between. It's been almost two years since her diagnosis." Troy paled, "Wait, can we just…can we get through the second year first? Her bone marrow transplant is still just a little over a year and…" Dr. Rich smiled as I laced my fingers with Troy.

"Yes, I think that's reasonable. At year three we can reevaluate, how does that sound?" Everybody agreed as Claire pulled out the sonogram from her pocket. She had carried that thing everywhere and she waved it, "Dr. Rich! Gabi and daddy are having a baby!" I felt my cheeks flush as Dr. Rich grinned, "Really? That's amazing! Are you going to be the best big sister?" Claire nodded with a grin. "Gabi, congrats," I laughed thanking him, "It was a journey to get there but I am so happy that we are here. We just hit twelve weeks earlier this week."

"That's exciting. You are going to have an amazing helper," I laughed as we all walked out as I went in search of my best friend. I hadn't seen her in a bit, but I knew she as nearing the end of her pregnancy. I found her as Troy was hugging on Claire and talking to Eve as he had to run off to practice. Wren grinned the moment she saw me and waddled her way towards me. "Look at my niece!" I rubbed her belly and Wren laughed wrapping her arms around me. "She is going to have a best friend!" I laughed as you couldn't tell I was pregnant. There were zero signs, but I knew it would happen eventually.

"How are you feeling?" she smiled, "Good. About a month left but I need her to cook some more." I laughed, "Hi Troy, good news again," Troy nodded with relief. "That it is. How are you?" he hugged Wren and she nodded, "Really good. Just starting to feel the final weeks of pregnancy. I also cannot wait to hang out with ya'll more soon." Troy nodded, "Come over whenever. Keep my girl occupied." Wren laughed, "I'll drag Viv and we'll keep her busy. How are you feeling rolling into post-season with the one seed?"

Troy laughed, "Good. I am glad we get an extra week off to get ready. Let our bodies rest a bit. Our bye week feels forever ago at this point." I agreed as that was almost 12 weeks ago mostly because we were waiting on our test results. Troy rubbed my back as Claire came up behind him, "Hi Wren! Bye daddy! Bye Gabi!" Troy smiled as he bent down to kiss her head. "Bye, baby. I'll see you Sunday." He hugged her tight and I smiled watching the two of them knowing that this was hard to let her go after these appointments. Wren waved bye as I hugged Wren, "Dinner soon?" she nodded her head, "Before this baby comes!" I agreed with her as Troy picked up my hand.

"Don't you need to be getting to practice?" I asked him and he nodded, "I can walk my wife over to her car. What are your plans for the rest of today?" I thought about it for a moment as is shrugged, "Not too many plans today. I am going to work on some stuff for The Sunshine Pact. Schedule that interview for GMA and reply to some emails. I'll be home when you get home." Troy grinned, "I shouldn't have too much to do tonight. I think a date night at the house? Yea?" I nodded as we made it to the car as it was chilly outside today. A snowstorm was supposed to blow through this weekend, and I was dreading it.

If Troy could get away, I would ask him to whisk me away for the weekend so that I could get some sunshine. He opened my car door, and I slipped in as he reached forward for a kiss. "I love you; I'll see you later tonight. I'll text you if something comes up." I nodded as I squeezed his hand. "I love you, too. Practice well." He gave me a grin, "Always." I shook my head as he went running back to his car to get to practice. I gave a smile as I watched him run as I called my mom to check in with her. "Hi sweetie, how are you doing?" I got onto the highway, "Good. I am feeling really good. Claire had another clean scan, and everything is going well." I told her as I felt the contentment fall onto my shoulders.

It was so nice that we were almost in the second trimester which made me breathe a little easier and then Claire having a good three-month scan. Troy could breathe a little easier going into the playoffs. "Good, I am so happy for you Gabi. I think you've come such a long way." I laughed, "I was just talking about this not that long ago. I am lucky." I told her. "I am lucky that I have the means to have a baby quickly. I am lucky that I ran back into Troy Bolton. I am lucky to have the best family and support system. I know I am so lucky."

"I am thankful you gave that man another chance." I laughed, "I was putty the moment I saw him again." My mom laughed, "You two were always so close. Your dad was worried about it in high school, and I just shook my head. I told him those two are in love and they are most likely going to get married one day. We never really realized what direction you two were going to go through," I laughed as I couldn't help but smile. "I wish that Troy didn't play this weekend or I would be on the first plane out of here. It's going to snow buckets all weekend and it's going to be worse in Buffalo."

"Maybe sit this on out. Come home for a few days," I blinked, "I can't, I haven't missed a game yet." My mom sighed, "I bet Troy would feel more comfortable if you weren't at the game anyways. If I know him." I chewed on my lip because I could use some sunshine. "What if I picked you up and we kept going south for the weekend?" my mom laughed, "Sure. If you talk to that husband of yours." I laughed as this game almost meant nothing as they had locked up the one seed already. I wondered if Troy was even going to play.

I bid my mom love as I promised to call her back later as a girl's weekend could be fun. I sent a text to my sisters to see if any of them wanted to join in if it happened. I went inside as I found Ember and she was chewing on her toy. I patted her head and then took her outside. She went to the bathroom, and I got on my tasks for the day. My eyes glanced up to see the sonograms on the fridge as next week was the big reveal that we were pregnant. I couldn't wait as we were in the middle of the wait of our transfer right now. People were so excited to find out and honestly, I couldn't wait for it to be out.

The last edits were done and once the cat was out of the back, I was mostly just going to do a few other videos (telling everybody) and then do a big catch-up video for all of them over the first twelve weeks. Luckily, there wasn't much to report. It had been smooth sailing besides being tired. Sharing Claire's video might be my favorite. I watched it maybe 100 times afterwards and I cried each time. Her reaction was so pure and so her. Every single day since she has called and wanted to check on the baby. It melted Troy. I worked away in the office answering emails, setting up interviews, and applying for grants. I was on a roll, so I didn't stop.

I rubbed my eyes as I got up to go get a drink and I noticed it was dark outside. I blinked, how long was I in that office for? I picked up my phone to see if Troy had reached out to me and he had sent two text messages. I leaned against the counter as I opened my phone and read his text messages.

Troy: Lucas has one meeting for me this afternoon. I should be home by six.

Troy: Are you asleep? I am going to pick up dinner. Didn't know if you wanted anything specific?

I shook my head with a smile as I pushed on his name and I called him, "Hey," he said with a laugh, "Glad to hear from you. I already picked up food." I shook my head, "No worries. I was just working. I can't believe how long I was working for. I came out of the office to get a drink and it was dark." Troy chuckled, "Glad you got work done. I am almost home. I just grabbed from the local deli." I nodded, "Perfect. I'll see you in a few minutes." I hung up as I cleaned up the kitchen and I shut the dishwasher as Troy was coming through the door. He was in joggers with a crewneck and a backwards hat.

My body warmed just looking at him and he greeted Ember as he sat the bags on the counter. He kissed on Ember and played with her before standing up. I walked over and he opened his arms, and I rested my head on his chest. He was so warm, and I wanted to cocoon into his body. "How was practice?" I asked reluctantly letting him go and he nodded, "Good. I'm not playing this weekend. Most of the starters aren't playing this weekend. Will you please stay in Boston?" I laughed as he took out our dinner. "Worried about me?" Troy nodded, "Yes, I am." His face was so serious, and I just gave a tiny laugh as I picked up my salad and soup.

"I was actually going to ask what you thought of me getting out of here for the weekend? As in somewhere warm. I could use some sunshine." Troy gave a tiny smile, "You should before the play-offs start." I gave a tiny nod, "I think my sisters and mom want to join me. We thought about just going down to Miami for the weekend." Troy nodded, "Please, I can arrange a flight for you guys." I blinked, "Troy, we can fly like normal humans." Troy shook his head. "No, Gabs, I know you don't feel it sometimes but people do recognize you."

"I can take care of myself," I reminded him. "I've done it for years. I get it when I am with you and Claire. Or traveling with the wives but it's just going to be my sisters and I plus my mom." I wasn't sure why I was fighting this. I think it was a sliver of something I missed. People always want chartered flights, but I don't feel like that yet. I would never feel like I was that rich that I could afford those chartered flights. Troy didn't speak for a moment as I looked up at him and he had a tiny smile on his face. Those blue eyes staring at me, and he reached forward to cup the back of my head with his hand. His thumb brushed my cheek, "El, baby, I know you can."

"Then let me." I argued with him. Those blue eyes surveyed my face and he let out a heavy sigh. "Wouldn't it just be easier to let my coordinate your flight out of here to North Carolina to pick up your sisters and then down to Florida? It will be more efficient and faster." I swallowed because it made sense. It did. "I hate that I can't do normal people things anymore and it's only going to get worse after I have our baby. I want the gross crackers and I want the tiny little water cups. The cramped leg room and the grumpy passengers. The fake nice flight attendants. That's what I want." Troy pressed his lips together and he watched me for a moment. "I know, I'm sorry." He whispered quietly to me. "When do you want to leave?" he asked me and I swallowed, "That's it? That's all your just going to schedule it?" tears filled my eyes staring at him as he wasn't hearing me.

Troy blinked at me, and I shook my head as I stood up from the bar as I went to the bedroom. "Whoa, whoa, come here," Troy's voice was soft as he tucked me into his body. I couldn't fight it and he just wrapped me up. He didn't say anything for a few moments as he just held me, and I gathered my emotions. "Why are we fighting?" he whispered, and I shook my head. "I don't know. You aren't listening." Troy let out a little laugh and he kissed the top of my head. "I was asking when you were wanting to leave, El. I'll look up flights and see what I can find that would be fairly quick for you to meet your sisters in the airport."

At that I did break down, "I'm sorry, I assumed," I cried, and he just chuckled as he kissed my head. He sat on the edge of our bed as he pulled me into his lap. His lips pressing into my head, "El, I know that's one of the things you hate the most about our relationship and I think it's one of the ones I love the most. I love that you just want to travel normally. You could care less for the luxury lifestyle. I'm also mostly worried that you may not get home with the snow moving in on commercial flights but if you're okay with that." I nodded as I wiped away my tears.

"Just this time. I just want to have a weekend with my sisters and mom." He nodded as he brushed my tears away. Those blue eyes holding mine as he nodded, "Okay," he blinked and gave a tiny smile, "But really – what day do you want to leave?" I couldn't stop my laugh as I kissed on him, "Is tomorrow too late?" Troy shook his head, "Nope. All five of you?" I nodded my head, "Auggie?" I shook my head no. "We would come home on Monday." Troy agreed as he planted me in bed. "Dinner," Troy nodded, "Hang on,"

He was gone for only a few minutes before he was back with our dinner. We snuggled up in bed as we finished eating and turned on a TV series that we were in the middle of. His lips met my forehead as I was battling sleep. "Done," he said quietly, and I swallowed because I knew he would probably prefer me not in the public, but this was definitely something I needed. "Plus, it kind of works out. I'll meet you in Wilmington Monday night for your doctor's appointment Tuesday. Claire will hang with my parents." I grinned because I kinda forgot about that.

"I forgot," Troy chuckled, "I realized but like I said – it worked out. We will take a private flight back from North Carolina together." I just nodded as I curled closer to him. "You all leave North Carolina tomorrow at 430. Your flight gets into North Carolina at 2:45." I pulled back as I reached up to kiss him. "Thank you," he smiled, "Anything for you, El. Always." I kissed him again. "I know you can take care of yourself, I have zero doubt, but even the thought of you having too drives me crazy. I also know you just want to be with your family." I nodded and he kissed me.

"I need to text my sisters and mom."

"Done."

"We need a hotel."

"Also done. Rental car? Done." He said in-between kissing me and I smiled as I pushed off his shirt and he was after mine next. "I love you, Troy. Sorry for not listening." Troy chuckled, "Sorry for making it seem like I wasn't caring." I giggled and we both fell into a fit of laughter. I wrapped my arms around his neck, and I kissed on him. "I love you," I murmured, and he smiled, "I love you, too, El."

Friday, January 6th, 2023

Troy's POV

I kissed her as we were still in bed together. I was thrilled last night when she mentioned getting away for the weekend with her sisters because it was about to snow a shit ton here and in Buffalo was getting more. I didn't need her going and I wasn't playing so it made it easier. Gabi snuggled in deeper into my arms. "What time do you have to go to the stadium?" she murmured. I moved her hair as I sighed, "In like three hours. Do you want me to drop you off at the airport on my way?" she nodded her head, "I do."

"Good, I wanted, too." My phone rang and I groaned as I reluctantly let go of Gabi to twist over to grab my phone off the charger. I smiled as I saw a Facetime from Eve which only meant one thing. I scooted up in bed and let my back hit the headboard before I answered Claire's call which allowed time for Gabi to find a shirt. "Daddy! Good morning!" I chuckled, "Good morning, Claire. Did you sleep well?" she nodded as she was eating her breakfast. "Where is Gabi?" I laughed as Gabi finished tugging on my shirt before she was curling up next to me again. "Right here," Gabi confirmed and Claire grinned.

"Claire, I won't see you until Tuesday," Gabi told her, and Claire pouted, "Why?" I laughed, "Because, Gabi is going to go hang out with her sisters and mom. If I am extra nice you might get to see her on Monday night, but you can't be too tired." Claire grinned, "I won't be!" I chuckled, "Is mom around?" I asked her and she nodded as Eve came into view as she was holding Jackson who was messy. "I can either get her late on Sunday, you can bring her to sleep here, or I can get her Monday after practice." I gave her three options and I most likely knew which one she was going to choose.

"Can you just get her Monday?" I nodded, "That's fine," Claire pouted, "Daddy!" she whined, and I laughed, "Baby, it's an away game and I won't be back until late." Tears filled her eyes and I sighed softly, "Claire, if we get back earlier than expected I can call mommy to see if you are still awake but if not, I will come right after film on Monday. Then we're heading to North Carolina until Wednesday." She nodded and I gave her a tiny smile, "I love you, Claire."

"I love you, too, I just miss you."

"I miss you more," she gave a tiny smile as I wish I could hug her. "Claire, we get to check on the beach house when we go," Gabi told her and she grinned, "Yay! Do you think it's almost done?" I nodded, "It should be. Your room should be painted." Claire clapped her hands, and I felt the relief of knowing that she was okay. "Is it going to be pretty like we planned?" Claire rocked on her hands as she had finished eating and was just talking now. "I hope so. We'll see it when we go!" Gabi encouraged her. "How is the baby?" A smile stretched on Gabi's face and my own matched.

"Good. We get to check on baby soon." Claire clapped as Eve walked back in, "Baby, I gotta go get ready for the day. Listen to mommy and I will see you soon." She nodded, "love you, daddy!"

"Love you, too," I blew her a kiss and Gabi bid her good-bye. I hung up the phone as Gabi rested her head on my chest. "Breakfast?" I nodded, "That sounds good. Shower together?" I bargained and she just laughed, "Did you not get enough last night?" I kissed her, "I never get enough." She laughed and I loved the noise from her mouth. I found her mouth and I kissed her hard. "I love you, El." She wrapped her arms around my neck. I easily rolled her out of bed in my arms as I went to the bathroom. I sat her on the counter.

Twisting the shower on I turned around as Gabi removed the t-shirt, I cupped her face, "I am jealous that you are going south," she laughed again as I kissed on her and then kissed her again. I picked her up and pressed her into the shower wall. I dropped her softly and I settled her before I grabbed her shampoo. "Wait," she turned around to face me and I grinned. "I do get enough," I told her as I spun her around. Her hair was wet as I massaged in the shampoo. "Wait, I was teasing. Morning sex is my favorite," her whine was cute, and I couldn't stop the smile.

I leaned down as I pressed my lips below her ear, "Patience," I murmured to her, and she groaned as I chuckled. I washed her hair twice like she normally does. I then conditioned it and she glanced up at me as I grabbed the soap and really worked her body. She had heavy sighs and her head leaned back against my chest. "I am obsessed with you." She laughed, "I know, you have been since the moment we met." We both laughed as I wrapped her legs around my waist as I slid into her without much warning. She moaned as I kissed on her face. I let one hand on the back wall as she held onto me. Her hips matching mine.

This was the best way to start every morning.

Gabi wasn't wrong that morning sex was a favorite around here. She gasped as I hit her deeper and faster. She cried out and I felt her spasm as she came. I wasn't far behind as I kissed on her face and we both came down from the high. "Yup, we can start the morning like that every single morning." Gabi giggled and I squeezed her to me. "I will be sad that I won't wake up in bed with you until Tuesday morning." I stroked her cheek and she smiled with a tiny nod, "I will miss you too, but this is good for us to be away from each other…sometimes."

A shake of my head and a laugh from her. I kissed her again before she rinsed her hair and then got out as I showered. I got out after, and we both got ready together and I hugged her really tight. "You are going to have so much fun this weekend," she laughed, "I'll send pictures of the beach." We both laughed together. My hand squeezing the back of her neck gently. Our eyes connected. I smiled. Fuck, I loved her.

Gabi's POV

I squeezed Layla and Scar as my mom and Sophia were in the bathroom after coming through security. "I am so glad you called! Mama needs a weekend away!" I laughed as it was fun that we could just afford to randomly choose to go on a trip without planning. My flight had gone off without a hitch. Nobody said anything to me, and I texted Troy constant updates until I was with my sisters – just to make him feel better. I knew his worries. I just needed some more independence before I became strapped with his offspring.

"You look glowing." I gave a smile, "Yea?" Scar nodded her head, "Yea, I think pregnancy is going to look so good on you." I felt my cheeks flush, and I felt excited. Excited that I would have a baby later this year. "I'm surprised Troy didn't charter this for you." Layla said and I laughed, "We actually had a fight about it. He was going too but I told him I wanted the normal experience. I know that once I have this baby I myself will probably not want to be in public. People go feral over Claire, and I would never put my kids in that attention. We aren't sure how much we are going to share the kids on social media until they can give consent."

"Like not at all?" I shrugged, "I don't know. Some. I don't want the attention to be too great and they want photos of them and are sneaky. But also, like boundaries." Layla nodded as my mom and Sophie caught up. I hugged each of them as our flight was boarding soon. We all got in line to board the plane as Troy did bump us all to first class – so not completely normal but more normal. It felt right. We all got in together as we were all a laughing mess. It had been so long since we had all been together for any extended period of time.

"Gabs, when are ya'll coming back to Wilmington?" Layla asked, "End of February is when the house is supposed to be done. Troy wants to take a few trips so if they go out of the playoffs early, hopefully not, we'll take a trip with Claire somewhere and then he wants to go on a trip just the two of us somewhere. A babymoon I do believe he said." We all laughed, "I think he might wait for our anniversary though."

"What a wild first year of marriage for the two of you." I laughed, "Right? I mean, I kind of knew what we were in for. Especially after going without protection for so long with no success but it has been harder than I expected it to be." I said which caused Sophie to squeeze my shoulder. "You are going to be a kick ass mom,"

"Auggie is going to love having a cousin." I smiled with a nod, "I am excited. I am ready." My mom just gave me a smile as we did take off. We talked and chatted the entire flight to Miami as I was very lucky to get out of Boston before the storm started. I rolled my lips together as we had zero plans for the weekend but to hang out and maybe do some shopping. I think some massages were going to be great. Scar looked at my ring and she gave me a smile, "I love seeing you happy." I looked over at her, "I like being happy. I was happy there in Boston for a while prior to him but."

"Not this. It is completely different. He completes you."

"I want to complete me." I argued back a little bit because I never wanted to relay on him. Scarlett just sent me a tiny look and shook her head with a smile, "You do complete yourself but Troy Bolton just…he makes you…you. He makes you happy and that is not a bad thing, Gabriella." Her voice was soft, and I exhaled thinking about her words. "I did feel like he was who I was missing." I whispered to her. "All my time away from him. It was a gaping hole in my chest but with him back I do feel whole but sometimes I hate that I couldn't fill it."

Scar squeezed my hand, "You couldn't fill it because it was the other half. Don't try to argue with fate and love, Gabs. That man loves you just as much if not a little bit more." I gave her a half look and she laughed, "He lost you. He'll never let you willingly go again. He arranged this entire weekend for you in the drop of a hat. No questions asked."

"Only some," I muttered, and she laughed, "What? What jet you want?" I just rolled my eyes at the accuracy. "Ya'know, I never really believe in all of it until Daxon. Daxon makes me feel whole and it's never the person that I thought it was going to be. Daxon is younger, rough, and everything I never would have gone for but it's it. He's it. I love him so much." I gave a grin, "Good. It's the best love. Is he going to pop the question?" I asked her and she grinned, "Hopefully. We've been talking about it but we're also just enjoying Auggie. Might pull a Gabi and get married in the backyard."

I giggled, "I wouldn't change a damn thing." I told her. "I have a backyard." I teased. She laughed as I did love my wedding night. There was nothing better than that night honestly. It was everything I wanted and more. The day, the night, and then playing on the beach with all of our friends high as a kite. I smiled with a shake of my head as I couldn't wait for our anniversary. I almost wanted to stay home and just be at the house with Troy for a night. Then he could take me out of town. It wasn't long before we were landing in Miami. I shot off a text message to Troy to let him know that we landed.

We went to get our rental car and loaded the back of it. I tossed my mom the keys and she smiled, "You want me to play mom?" I nodded with a smile, "Please, do," she just nodded as I slid into the passenger seat. Scar, Sophie, and Layla climbed into the back. "Alright ladies, let's go have some fun."

Troy's POV

Saturday, January 7th, 2023

It was so fucking bitterly cold outside in Buffalo. "Jealous of Gabi yet?" Hanson asked as we sat next to each other in the meeting in the large conference room. I nodded my head as I was in joggers, a hoodie, and a jacket because the hotel was even just cold. The heat couldn't keep up with how cold it was outside. "Yea, I am really jealous. I am more jealous because I can't even play tomorrow. My ass is on the sidelines." Hanson cackled with a nod because he was, too. "Maybe we can just hog the bench. At least our ass will be warm." We both chuckled together as we tried to pay attention to the meeting.

My phone buzzed as if she knew I was talking about her as it was a picture of them on a beach for dinner. The sun was setting, and she was wearing a fucking dress. I was jealous because she was warm in that dress. I sent a picture of me pouting with my hood up and my jacket. "How far along is she?" he asked, and I smiled, "Twelve weeks. She'll be thirteen on Monday." I scratched my face with a smile blooming as she planned on letting the cat out of the bag Tuesday after our appointment. "You look pretty smitten over there," I just shrugged with a smile.

"I'm happy," I told him honestly. "You always said that with Eve," I shrugged, "I wanted to be happy with Eve and I would do anything to make it happen but…God apparently had other plans for that relationship anyways." Hanson chuckled as Reni ducked his head into our conversation. "This seems more entertaining than this." I laughed, "Might be," I joked as Hanson looked up as Coach was wrapping up anyways. "Dinner will be here soon; we'll have individual group meetings afterwards." He released us as I dropped my pen and spun around in my chair to face Reni.

"Back to your happiness," Hanson interrupted, and I rolled my eyes. "Honestly, it's funny because Gabs and I got into a fight the other day." Reni's eyebrows hit his hairline as Hanson laughed, "You what?" I nodded with a laugh, "I know, I know you never thought you'd see the day. We used to have some knock out drag out fights in high school." I told them with a laugh. "We are definitely still in a honeymoon phase but regardless we got into a fight because she thought I wasn't listening to her about wanting to fly commercial. I was, I just didn't clarify my question, so she assumed. She got mad and I was so confused at first." I laughed, "We literally worked it out in like twenty minutes and if that was Eve and I?" I blew out a breath, "Lord, it would have been a five-day fight."

Reni chuckled, "How is my girl feeling?" I shot him a look and he just grinned, "She's good. Currently on a beach to get out of the weather." I showed him a picture and he pouted, "Fuck, I am jealous. Too bad we didn't play in Miami this weekend." I agreed as I checked for any new messages from her. "Claire and I are flying out Monday afternoon to North Carolina. We're meeting with her OB on Tuesday before flying back that night."

"She having the baby down there?" I nodded as I chewed on my fingernail. "Her OB she's seen since high school is there and with our due date it should be perfect time actually. It'll be before camp and after all the mini camps. Plus, she loves the beach house. Her mom will be there." Reni sighed, "So I have to fly down to meet my god son or daughter?" I threw him a look, "You know there is a long line, and you probably aren't in it?" Reni scrunched his face, "Excuse me? Fine, I'll be football godfather. Hanson, you can have the next one." Hanson just chuckled with a shake of his head. Reggie plopped down next to Reni as we all talked about the game tomorrow.

I was working with Kellen on the play later tonight and how to look at their defense. Buffalo was still looking for the last wild card spot, so we wanted to spoil it, but we also wanted to be rested going into the play-offs. One outweighed the other. Dinner was served and we all got our pre-ordered dinner from the restaurant as we scarfed them down as Gabi called me. I tucked the phone between my ear and shoulder, "Hey El,"

"Hi miss me?"

"Miss you? Always. I am more jealous of the weather you are in though. I am cold. I am inside and I am cold." She laughed and I couldn't stop my smile at it. I loved her laugh. "Sorry, baby. Get through the post-season and we can have a trip together somewhere really warm."

"Promise?"

"Pinky promise."

"With everything?" I asked her and I gave a smile as she paused for only a moment. "With everything, are you in meetings?" I nodded as I twisted around to see what time it was in the corner. "We have individual group meetings soon. Then I am off to bed. Are you back at the hotel?"

"Yea, we just got back from dinner. We are all tired from the day. Between the sun, the beach, dinner, and just talking all day. I think we're all ready for bed. Three rooms were a little over the top." I laughed, "It gave somebody a room to themselves, and I figured it would be your mom or Scar." Gabi laughed, "My mom. I am rooming with Scar. Last night we shared a bed for the first time in forever." I frowned, "Didn't I get you doubles?" She laughed again, "Yea, but I wanted to snuggle with my sister. If we had two beds, what would we do?" I grunted, "We wouldn't have two beds unless we had Claire."

"Exactly, I think Layla and Sophie shared a bed, too." I rolled my eyes, "You Montez woman,"

"It's a sister thing," Gabi said, and I smiled knowing that I loved having girls and would love for Claire to have a sister. "Bolton," Kellen called my name, and I nodded as I began to gather my stuff. "El, I gotta go. I love you and I will talk to you tomorrow. Facetime in the morning?" I could feel her smile through the phone, "Of course. I love you, Troy. Miss you."

"Miss you way fucking more." I whispered to her. "Not possible," she whispered back. I shook my head as we hung up the phone as I hustled to get to the meeting. I waved bye to Hanson, Reggie, and Reni as I disappeared with Kellen. "Ready?" I asked him and he smirked, "Of course. It's my game to shine golden boy," I chuckled as we plopped down with our coach and got to work.

Gabi's POV

Sunday, January 8th, 2023

The iPad was propped up as we were lounging on the beach while the Loyalist were getting drilled with snow and ice in Buffalo during the last game of the season. Buffalo ended up taking the lead in the second half and Kellan tied it up in the third quarter. Troy was bouncing around on the sidelines probably trying to keep himself warm. The broadcast talked about him every now and then, but I knew he was doing everything he could to stay warm. Buffalo had to sadly play their starters because they still needed a playoff spot and they had to win to get it.

I sucked in my lower lip as Kellan threw a pass downfield, but it was intercepted. Luckily, we were close to scoring, so they were on the opposite end of the field. I threw my head back as Layla smiled, "You and football again," I laughed and I nodded, "I missed it. It was probably one of the things I missed the most that I let go of when our relationship ended besides well him." Sophie laughed, "Dad watched it in secret," I tossed her a look, "I was barely home. When I was home, I barely left my room. He didn't have to hide it." Sophie shrugged, "He was team Gabi,"

With a shake of my head, I couldn't stop my smile as I looked out at the waves rolling onto the beach. The sun was so warm, but the water was not. We hadn't gotten in one time, but we were all perfectly content to just lay here and listen to the waves. Buffalo didn't score and the game was winding down in the fourth quarter. I couldn't stop watching when Kellen got sacked. I winced watching him as he took a while to get back up. My heart hammered in my chest as I instantly felt for his wife because those moments sucked.

He finally got up and limped off the field as it was going to be a punt anyways. Troy greeted him on the sidelines as they talked and got over to the bench. Troy helped him see something on the iPad as they went back to the game. I looked up at the ocean while Scar glanced over, "Still tied?" I nodded as I chewed on my thumbnail. "Sadly, I love Kellen. I want him to do well."

"Even though he wants your husbands' job?" I snorted, "Kellan does not want Troy's job. His wife Marci was so happy he was the back-up. He's on the older side and loving being involved and needed but that he isn't taking those hits every single week." Scar nodded as an understanding. Sophie sat on the sand next to me as Layla was talking to my mom about something. There wasn't much time left on the clock when Buffalo got a good punt return. They had a good run down the field, and I groaned because they were in field goal range with twenty seconds left on the clock.

Troy was still talking to Kellen on the sidelines as they were duel showing. Buffalo got to an even better spot and went to do their field goal. I pouted watching as they nailed it with no time left. I sighed as I turned off the iPad as we all gave a sigh. "They played well," I agreed, "They did. Troy would have destroyed them." We all laughed at that as we returned to what we were doing prior to the game. I sent Troy a text message telling him to call me later as I couldn't wait to see him tomorrow night. I hated that I missed him when I wasn't with him. But I did.

"Any big plans on Tuesday?" Layla asked me and I shook my head. "We have an OB appointment in the morning followed by checking up on the house. After that maybe some lunch with Claire and then we have to head home so Troy can get ready for the play-offs." Layla pouted, "Not staying Tuesday? We could have done family dinner." I shook my head, "No, we will be back in Wilmington soon enough. We will have all the family dinners." We both gave a smile as I couldn't wait to be near my family. "Sophie, how many years left?"

"Just this one. I can't wait to be done. To have a job," she threw herself back as Scar laughed, "I'm proud of you," she rubbed her head as Sophie dodged it, "Thank you very much but I am mostly jealous of Gabi," I snorted with a shake of my head. "No way, I miss my job most of the time. It just was hard to get done after a while because everybody wanted me a nurse or they didn't want more as a nurse. It became complicated. Plus, with Troy's schedule it just isn't worth it."

"You miss working?" My mom asked me, and I laughed, "I do. I love my job. Luckily, The Sunshine Pact keeps me pretty damn busy. I have so much on my calendar this week since Troy is home most of the week." The girls went back to get drinks as I laid next to my mom, "Do you think I am ready to be a mom?" I asked and she laughed, "Sweetie, you've been ready for a long time. You are going to be such a great mom." I glanced over at her and then back up towards the top of the umbrella. "Yea? I just…I never thought too much about it and then it just happened very quickly."

"Gabi, I have seen you with Claire. You are so, so good with her and you aren't even her mother. This sweet baby is going to be so, so loved. Troy Bolton as a dad is something to swoon about, too." I laughed as I nodded, "He really is. I would have probably 100 kids with him just to watch him be a dad. He is so good with Claire." My mom squeezed my thigh gently, "Well, I think you have 12 chances left unless you are doing the egg retrieval again." I laughed with a shake of my head, "Not a shot. Whatever we get from those eggs is all we are getting."

My mom nodded as I basked in the sun, and nothing had felt better. Truly, the sun, the wind, and just knowing I get to see my husband tomorrow.

Troy's POV

Monday, January 9th, 2023

13 Weeks Pregnant

We were staying with Gabi's parents this time mostly so Gabi could just ride with her mom. Claire was already asleep upstairs as we had dinner with my family, and she passed out on the drive back. I tucked her into Scar's old room while Andy and I chatted. I had a bourbon with him as we waited for the girls to come back. Sophie and Layla were also crashing here but I hope they had fun. "How's Gabi been doing with the pregnancy?" I smiled, "Good. She really hasn't had that many symptoms. Baby looks great when we do ultrasounds. I'm just thankful that we got lucky."

Andy gave a tiny smile, "She deserves it. You both do, honestly." I nodded as I took a drink, "I love having kids, but I love her more. I have Claire. I just wanted her to have at least one. To know that overwhelming love for a tiny human." Andy chuckled, "She feels it for Claire. She might not be hers, but she feels it. That girl would do anything for your little girl." I swallowed as I nodded my head, "I know, but I just, I sometimes think there is something different about being your blood." Andy gave a slight nod and I knew he didn't quite understand.

"She's going to be such a great mom," Andy chuckled, "Gabi was always the mom of the group. Mothering all of them – especially her younger sisters but even Scar." We both chuckled at that as basketball was playing. We were heading to post season as the one seed, so we had all week off which was really fucking nice. I was thankful that we had a break in our schedule. "What are your off-season plans?" I rolled my lips together as I thought about them. "First, Claire's birthday we will celebrate. Once the season is officially over, I am taking Gabs and Claire on a week vacation. I'm thinking about going to a kid friendly all-inclusive resort. Invite Eve and her family. We all need a vacation after the season." Andy nodded as I smiled, "Then we'd come back, move back into the beach house, get settled there. I plan on taking Gabi somewhere for our one-year anniversary. I am just trying to figure out when. I need to ask tomorrow when they are going to cut Gabi off from travel."

"Any idea where?" I shrugged, "It'll be late April to early May. Figured we could go down to the Caribbean or out to California. Thought about Hawaii but I don't know if I want to be that risky." Andy chuckled with a nod. "Then I pray we have this baby before the off-season is over." Andy nodded, "Good. Sounds like a good time for all of you. I like how you include Eve." I smiled, "She's important. Plus, if we go, I have a baby-sitter." Andy laughed as I smiled over at him as I finished off my drink. The front door opened as Ruthie, Gabi, Layla, and Sophie came through the door. Gabi caught my eye immediately and grinned, "You're still up," I nodded as I stood up and she barreled into me. Her arms wrapping tightly around me.

"Of course, I am still up. I needed to see my girl," I kissed the top of her head. Her eyes were tired, and I couldn't wait to crawl into bed with her. She let go as I greeted her sisters and her mom. "Troy, thank you for organizing all of that." I gave a tiny smile, "Of course, I am glad I could get Gabi out of that nastiness. I think I was still cold this morning when I got up." Gabi gave a half smile, "How was the extra night in Buffalo?" I huffed a breath, "The worst part was telling Claire. She was not happy. She screamed on the phone, and I felt horrible."

"And this morning?"

"Wouldn't let go of me." We both laughed as Gabi shook her head, she went to say something to her dad. "I am tired. I think I am going to head up to bed." I agreed with her as I bid the family good night before following Gabi up to her room. "Claire in Scar's room?" I nodded my head, "Yup," I pressed her into the room and shut the door before my mouth was on hers. "I missed you," she went back in for another kiss. "You taste good," I laughed as I easily picked her up and sat back on the bed. "How was it?" I asked her and she sighed as she let her head rest on my shoulder. "Really, really good. Thank you," she kissed my chin, and I scrunched my eyebrows. "No need to say thank you, I just hit the buttons."

"Yea, but you bought it for my sisters and my mom. You didn't have to do that."

"I did. I wanted you to have a good weekend before the play-off craziness starts. Plus, I love you family." She kissed me again, "I'm sorry you got stuck in Buffalo," I shrugged, "It wasn't that big of a deal. We were all tired anyway and fucking cold." She giggled and I shook my head as I grabbed my phone, and I pulled up her shirt to reveal the very flat belly still. I let my hand rest over it as I snapped a picture, "For thirteen weeks, happy second trimester." Gabi blinked back a few tears and grinned up at me, "We did it."

"We did do it. I'm proud of you, baby."

She curled up into me, "Wait, did you do your injection?" I asked her and she groaned, "No," I laughed, "I'll get it ready. Where is it?" she pointed to her backpack, and I got up to do it. I tossed her one of my t-shirts as she changed as I mixed up her meds before I gave them to her. I pressed a kiss onto each spot before cuddling with her. "No dance?" she murmured with her eyes closed and I chuckled, "Not tonight. Get some rest, baby."

Tuesday, January 10th, 2023

Gabi's POV

Dr. Miller walked in as Troy had his hand on my knee as we did a quick ultrasound for their office and a slew of bloodwork before meeting with her. "Gabi! I am so happy to see you and all of the good reports. How are you feeling?" I nodded my head with a smile, "I am feeling really, really good. The hard part was getting pregnant but since then I have felt really good." A smile grew on her face, "Good! I am so happy for the both of you. I saw explicit notes that you do not want to know the gender of the baby." I nodded as I glanced over at Troy.

"We don't even know how many of each we have that we got tested. We don't get many surprises with these pregnancies and that is one that I want. I want something that I don't know. A surprise. So, we are waiting." Dr. Miller grinned. "Good, then I am waiting. Troy, how is your daughter?" Troy gave a grin, "Good. She was mad she couldn't come today but we knew it was going to be more talking than looking at her sibling." Dr. Miller laughed. "Yea, they love to see their siblings. Still in remission?" Troy nodded with a tight smile.

"Good, good, do you have any questions? From here on out we try to treat you pretty normal. You'll experience come anxiety because we don't do nearly as many scans but that's all normal. If you have concerns, call. I know you'll mostly be in Boston for a bit longer, but I am always more than welcome to answer any calls." I nodded along to her instructions. "Mostly, the only difference is you'll have your anatomy scan and then a few weeks later you'll have a fetal echo done with MFM. There is an increased risk for congenital heart disease with IVF babies, so we just double check."

I nodded my head in understanding because Dr. Monty explained the same thing to us. "We'll watch all of your labs closely and monitor that baby closely. Any questions?" I shook my head as Troy nodded, "Just one, how long does she have to travel? I want to do something for our one-year anniversary in May, but she'll be 29-30 weeks pregnant." I shook my head with a smile as Dr. Miller grinned, "I would just stay close. United States." Troy nodded as he shot me a smile, "That I can work with." I squeezed his hand as we talked about my next appointment which would be in four weeks.

I thanked Dr. Miller as we collected our sonogram pictures while we held hands heading out. It was a mildly warm day today as Troy squeezed my hand, "Want to go check out the beach house?" I nodded, "Do you want to grab Claire first?" Troy shook his head, "Just us two, that way we can take our time. We'll take her back before we leave tonight." I agreed as we slipped into the car. Once we were settled in the car, I took to my TikTok as I had the video ready of me finding out we were pregnant in the bathroom plus a bunch of videos of ultrasounds and slowly telling family. "Should I post it?" Troy chuckled, "Yea, you should. It's time to celebrate."

I just gave him a grin as I hit upload from my drafts and let it go to the world. I swallowed on the nerves as we were going to post to Instagram later tonight, but the TikTok followers deserved first shot. Troy held my hand as I watched the video back as I couldn't help but cry watching it again. The way Troy looked at me with absolute love in his eyes and the happiness that flooded from him. I had to edit the whole part out about him showing me his tattoo. I gave a smile as the likes were coming in quickly and I shut my phone off to enjoy the day with Troy. This is good. I was happy. I squeezed Troy's hand, and I couldn't help but feel everything that I wanted to feel.

Happy Sunday! I barely snuck this one in but I was busy all day! Just before the strike of midnight haha BUT all the birthday festivities were fun! Hope you all enjoyed!

There is an update schedule on my profile so check that out for the next updates! I hope you all enjoyed!

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