Chapter 22 – Flying By
Friday, April 28th, 2023
28 Weeks Pregnant
Gabi's POV
"Where are you and daddy going?" Claire asked as we sat and colored by the pool as we finished dinner, and we were just relaxing after dinner. Troy had a bunch of meetings in Boston today but was flying back tonight. "I don't know. He won't tell me." Claire made a face as she looked up at me, "Really?" I nodded with a laugh, "Really. He wants to surprise me because he's silly like that." Claire gave a tiny giggle, "Daddy is silly. Will he be back by bedtime?"
"Yes, he will. He has to fly you back on Monday." Claire gave a tiny sigh, "I'm going to miss you." I reached over to squeeze her hand. "We are going to miss you." Claire gave me a smile as Bee moved around in my belly as I couldn't stop my smile feeling the baby move. "Claire," I took her hand as I let her feel her sibling kick. She gasped with a big smile on her face, "Is that little bee?" I nodded, "That's the baby," she giggled and gave me a big grin. "I hate that we have to wait so long to meet bee," I laughed, "I know, it takes forever, doesn't it?"
"Yea, can we meet the baby sooner?"
"No, the baby needs to cook in here. If the baby came now the baby would spend a lot of time in the hospital because it would be too small to live on their own." Claire frowned at the thought and then patted my belly. "Stay in there honeybee," I laughed as I kissed her head. Ember was laying underneath of our feet while I looked out on the ocean. I checked my phone as Troy said he was heading back soon as we had a jammed packed schedule over the next few weeks. We were leaving for our one-year anniversary next Friday but first we had our baby shower on Sunday.
All of our friends and family were coming in from all over to celebrate this weekend and I was so excited. It was Co-Ed and it was going to be fun. No games, we weren't opening presents as we asked for them to be in an open basket. We were just going to have fun, be with our friends and family, and celebrate this baby. My hand fell to my stomach as I also had a podcast interview later this week with a pediatric cancer mom who was using her podcast to spread awareness and asked me to come on. I agreed and it was Tuesday before we left.
We had a full calendar, and I was happy about it. It made the weeks go by a little bit faster as I really couldn't wait to meet our baby. "Gabi do you think it's a boy or girl?" Claire asked and I shrugged, "I don't know. I feel really good, and I just want the baby to be healthy. Do you want a sister or a brother?" I asked back and she thought about it. "I would really want a baby sister, but I also like Jackson a lot. A baby brother wouldn't be bad though. Would he play football like daddy?" I laughed, "I don't know. He will do whatever he wants to do. Just like you love dancing and what not. He can play whatever sport he wants."
"Can I play soccer?" Claire asked out of the blue and I blinked, "I think so. We will have to figure out where to sign you up. Is that something you are interested in?" she nodded as she continued to color. "My friend that I see when I am with mommy plays soccer and I want to do that. I want more friends," I hated that this sweet girl didn't get to do a lot of the typical thing's kids get to do. Between cancer ruining a bunch of things and now just the businesses of her dad. "We will find you something, sweet girl. Is there anything else you are interested in?"
She shook her head, "No, I think dancing with Aunt Gigi will always be my favorite, but I want to try something else, too." I kissed the side of her head as I agreed. "It's good to try different things. Your daddy used to play other sports, too. I didn't play sports, but I loved school and doing different activities with school."
"Like what?"
"I was on the student council, I helped do fundraisers to make our school dances cool, I was in a book club, and I was in the science program which was really cool. I also loved to volunteer."
"Can we do that?"
"We can. Your daddy and I used to walk dogs all the time," Claire gasped, "Really? Can we go?"
"I'll see if I can set something up. We also used to go do arts and crafts with a nursing home."
"Daddy like to do it too?"
"Sure do," both of our heads snapped up to see Troy leaning against the open door as Claire giggled and hopped down racing to her dad. "Daddy!" he laughed as he picked her up in the biggest hug. "Hi sweet girl," he kissed on her face, and she squeezed his neck. "I was telling Gabi that I want to do soccer!" Troy raised an eyebrow, "Yea? I'll see what I can find for you. You want to do something with dance, or you don't want to dance?" Claire shook her head with a smile, "Nooo, I want to do it with dance." Troy smiled, "Sounds good. How about you go brush your teeth and start getting ready for bed, yea?" she nodded as she kissed his cheek before wiggling down and heading off to her room.
"We should take her dog walking," Troy said, and I laughed standing up as I went over to get my own hug. "How were the meetings?" I asked tilting my head back to look him in the eyes. "Good. Finalized all of my sponsorships and scheduled some shooting days for commercials. Range Rover wants to do one with both of us." I grinned, "Deal, I can't imagine the two of us on a commercial set together." Troy laughed as he kissed me again. "Was Claire good today?" I nodded my head, "She was an angel per normal. We swam in the pool for a bit until she was cold, ate lunch and then ran some errands before coming back playing some games. Cooked dinner together and then we've been coloring out here since."
"Sounds like more fun than I had with Lucas."
"But it's done," I reminded him as we walked inside together after collecting all the outside stuff. "Correct, and I get to spend the next week plus with you and that makes me happy." I grinned back at him as we cleaned up the kitchen together before he headed to go put Claire to bed. I made myself a little mocktail and poured Troy a drink as I went into the living room. I turned on the current show we were watching as I scrolled on my phone until he came back downstairs. "So minor change of plans for Monday," I peeked up at Troy as he came into the living room.
"Eve was able to change her schedule and is able to come to the baby shower,"
"Seriously? Yay!" Troy laughed as he sat down next to me with a sigh, "So she is just going to fly back with Claire. I don't have to leave Monday now." Troy's hand landed on my belly as he waited to feel the baby move. "How are you feeling?" he asked, and I shrugged, "Sometimes I don't realize I am pregnant until Bee moves around in there." Troy kissed my belly and let his hand stay there for a bit. "Good, I am so glad pregnancy has been kind to you so far." I laughed with a nod, "I think it's a nice little trade off."
Troy turned on our show as I curled up into him as we watched TV. My head rested on his shoulder as he kissed my head before linking our hands over my belly. "Is it weird I can't wait for the sleepless nights and just getting to watch you be a mom?" I shook my head with my own smile. "I also can't wait. I can't wait to watch you hold our baby. I can't wait to watch Claire with our baby. I just overall can't wait. I am already working on quite the Loyalist wardrobe." Troy chuckled. "I can't wait to see it." I wiggled my eyebrows.
"Also Scar told me about the theme for the baby shower – did you pick it?" I laughed shaking my head, "No, they did it. A little honey," Troy kissed my belly again, "Hear that, honeybee? The baby shower theme is all for you." I ran my fingers through Troy's hair, and he sighed. "Sometimes I really do love these days the most."
"Me, too. Even though I wish you were here all day."
"Fair,"
Sunday, April 30th, 2023
Troy's POV
Scarlett, Layla, and Sophie had me working this morning to get the house set up for the baby shower. Lucas wasn't any less in the situation along with Daxon. We were all over this house hanging this and hanging that. The best part was the keg that we sat up for everybody who was able to drink. The house was cute, and they went all in on the honeybee theme for our little honeybee. The fact that Gabi was almost 29 weeks pregnant made me so happy. She was thriving through all of it, and she felt good. She looked good. Her bump was quite possibly the cutest thing in the world.
I jogged upstairs to change into a pair of shorts and a button up shirt. Gabi was in there with her sisters getting ready as everybody was heading over soon. The kids were able to go swimming as it was a warm day plus the pool was heated. The adults could all linger, and we weren't opening any gifts – Gabi's biggest request. She just wanted them in a basket for all to see and enjoy. She just wanted to celebrate this baby. I knocked on the door as I stepped in to see Gabi getting her make-up done. "Hi, care if I grab some clothes to change?" I asked and Gabi laughed while her sisters didn't mind.
Grabbing the outfit, I already picked out I went over to Gabi as I kissed on the back of her neck. "Can I get you anything?" she shook her head, "No, thank you for helping my sisters with everything. She said you, Lucas, and Daxon were troopers." I laughed, "I don't have to work out today if that's what you mean." Gabi laughed as I gave her a smile, "I'll be getting Claire dressed next. My mom is almost back with her."
"Perfect. I hate that she is leaving tomorrow," Gabi pouted, and I just smiled, "I am too but I am really excited to get one more adult only vacation with you before we have a baby." Gabi just grinned, "Me, too, even though you won't tell me where we are going besides warm and bring a bikini. Not sure this bump can handle a bikini." I grunted and shook my head, "Absolutely not. It's a requirement." Scarlett laughed, "Gabi, flaunt that baby in there. You worked hard for it." I grinned, "Listen to your sister," we all laughed as I escaped to let them finish getting ready.
By the time I was ready Claire was running through the door. I scooped her up and she giggled, "Daddy! It's the baby party day!" I laughed, "It sure is. C'mon, let's go change and then we'll go check on Gabi." Claire just grinned as she had a really cute dress her and Gabi picked out that was similar to Gabi's. I was able to put her swimsuit underneath and then we pulled on her dress. It was a light yellow and it went just past her knees. I brushed her hair, "Dad, can I put my hair up?" I nodded, "You want it up or do you want it braided?" I asked her and she thought about it for a minute. Those blue eyes looking up at me.
"A braid," I nodded as it was something I learned from Gigi a while. I never wanted to be the dad that didn't know how to do their daughters hair and it came in handy. I loved that I could do her hair and if it was something I'd never done we YouTube it. Claire thought it was funny, but we figured it out. I finished her hair and she grinned, "Thanks dad!" I picked her up and I gave her a big hug. "I love you," I reminded her, and she just grinned kissing my cheek, "I love you, daddy."
"Let's go find, Gabs." I held her hand as I led her to our bedroom as the door opened before we got there. Gabi was in the front laughing as she looked fucking gorgeous. She was wearing a light-yellow dress that framed her bump with a pair of sandals. Her hair was down in waves with her make-up looking so soft. "Gabi!" Claire went running at her and Gabi smiled, "Hi Claire! Did you have fun with Grandma?" she nodded with a grin, "I did. Hi baby bee!" she rubbed her belly as Gabi smiled at her. Scarlett, Gigi, Layla, and Sophie all left the room behind Gabi.
"Aunt Gigi," Claire threw herself at her as Gigi picked her up and took her downstairs as I waited for Gabi as I wrapped my arm around her waist. "You look…" Gabi smirked as I looked down towards her. Those brown eyes held so much happiness in them. "I look damn good; I know that Bolton." I chuckled as I kissed her forehead. "Can't wait to take that dress off of you tonight." Gabi just smirked with a shake of her head before slipping and going downstairs. I followed behind as people were already starting to show up. Her entire family and my entire family were here already.
Wren, Val, Josie, and Rynn were all here as Gabi squealed and greeted them. Gabi already had Scout tucked into her arms and cooing at her. I waved to their husbands as I went over to greet them. I shook their hands and hugged the girls thanking them for coming. The gift tables were already overflowing as I spotted Hanson, Amber, and the kids. I went over as I scooped up Sully from Amber. "God, he is already getting big."
"Built like his dad," I chuckled, "I'll teach you to be a quarterback, don't worry Sully."
"Nah, if you have a boy then we need a receiver." I chuckled, "It could be a girl."
"You have how many embryos?" I chuckled with a nod, "Fair enough," Reni and his girlfriend, Raven, popped through the door. They were fairly new still, but I think I saw a bit of a change in him. Bianca and Reggie weren't fair behind with a few other teammates and wives. Eve and Christian showed up with Jackson with smiles on their faces. Claire spotted Eve pretty quick as it had been two weeks today. "Mom!" she went running over and Eve laughed scooping her up in a hug. I left them as I made sure everything was going well and I heard splashes in the pool already.
It felt good to have all of our people here. I wrapped my mom in a tight hug when I saw her as she hugged me back. "How are you feeling?" she asked me, and I laughed, "Isn't that a question for Gabi?" I asked her and she smiled, "Yes, but I also want to know how you are doing. A lot of changing for you. Just checking in on my boy," I nodded, "I'm good. I'm happy."
"Good," she kissed my cheek and then went off to talk to somebody else. My eyes swept over to see Gabi taking pictures with her work friends. They were all laughing as Gabi had her hand on her belly. She was loving everything about being pregnant and it made me happy for her. It was such a long road to get here, and she deserved something easy. I walked over to her as they finished taking a picture. "Troy, get in there with her." Gabi just sent me a smile and I couldn't say no to her. I went over as I stood next to her and let my hand fall onto her belly. The baby kicked back, and I smiled looking down.
"Bee always kicks for you." Gabi said and I smirked, "Because Bee knows who I am." Gabi rolled her eyes with a laugh escaping as we took a handful of pictures. Once Wren put the camera down, I pulled Gabi into my arms and hugged her. My lips pressing into her hair. "Doing, okay?" she nodded, "This is perfect. Thank you,"
"I just want you to enjoy it," I reminded her. I kissed her once more before I let her go as Gabi gave a big smile. I kissed her belly before finding Claire. We took a picture as a family before I let Claire get into the pool. I went to sit and watch as Daxon was in the pool with Auggie. Hanson's kids were splashing in the pool, and it was a full fledge party.
Gabi's POV
The party was winding down and it was everything and more. The décor, the people, the food…it was amazing. No silly baby shower games – just a good time with all the people we loved celebrating the baby. People took guesses if it was a boy or girl and we joked about what this baby would look like. It was an authentically perfect day. The sun was setting, and the pool was still full of kids. I was dangling my feet in as Wren, Viv, Josie, and Rynn were all sitting with me as we had spent most of today catching up.
My family was all here, and it was just a really good day. I let my hand rub over my belly as the baby rolled around causing me to smile. "I love feeling this baby move,"
"Good, you should enjoy every minute of this time." I gave a laugh, "I am. I am so lucky to get this part and be here. Only like 10-11 weeks until we finally know if it's a boy or girl. I think I will be a little sad to no longer be pregnant." I explained and the girls laughed, "Really?" I nodded, "I know I can change my mind as the weeks go on, but I love this feeling. I love the belly, I love the way I feel in my body, I don't know – maybe I was always meant to be a mom." The girls all shared a smile with me. "I told Troy I want to have two kids fairly close in age."
"Wait really?" I nodded with a laugh, "Yea, I love how close I am with my siblings. If we can do IVF after a year? I'd love, too." The girls all grinned, "How come I just feel like you two are going to have a million kids?" I giggled, "Who knows – maybe?" I suggested, "But I will never do another egg retrieval. That shit sucked." We all laughed as Claire came over and hugged me around the neck. "Mommy said it's time to go," she sniffled, and I frowned softly as I pulled my feet out of the water, and I turned to face her. "Yea? Then I better get the world's biggest hug."
She pressed her face into my neck and hugged me tight, "I don't wanna leave," she whispered, and I held onto her as I tugged her into my lap. "I'm sorry that you feel that way but it's your mommy's turn to spend so much time with you." She sniffled as I rocked her in my arms for a few minutes. "Plus, daddy and I are going on an adult only trip and have some work to do. In just two weeks we'll be back right here."
"You won't have the baby, right?" I laughed and shook my head, "I better not. The baby has to stay in there for a while longer." She nodded and I wiped her tears away. "I love you and daddy, and I will call you tomorrow." She nodded as I kissed her forehead. "C'mon, let's go say bye to dad," I stood up as we started to walk when the baby kicked. I took Claire's hand to let her feel and she giggled, "Isn't it cool?" she nodded with a big smile. We found Troy talking to Reggie, Hanson, Reni, Brecken, and Cooper. "Daddy!"
Troy turned in the chair to see Claire as he frowned at first, "What's wrong?" he asked as he lifted her into his lap. "Mommy said it's time to go," Troy sighed as it was always the hardest part was the leaving. He hugged on her as she wrapped her arms around his neck. "14 days and we'll be back together," he reminded her as he kissed her cheek. "Plus, we'll talk every single day." Claire just nodded as her little fingers gripped his t-shirt. "Promise?"
"With everything, Claire." He kissed her temple as he stood up with her to go find Eve. I waved bye to Claire again as she waved back. I hated it for Troy more than anything that he had to send her back. I couldn't imagine ever leaving my kid for two weeks and I knew it wasn't ideal but with how our summers were – it was the best for everybody. I pressed my lip together as everybody was cleaning up and getting ready to head out. I helped as we had the whole back patio picked up along with the inside of the house. I looked around for Troy and I couldn't find him after a bit.
"Hanson, have you seen Troy?" I asked and he shook his head. "Not since he walked off with Claire." I just nodded as I peeked around a few times before heading to our bedroom. He was laying back on the bed with his arm over his eyes. I walked in as I crawled across it as I laid my head on his chest and he moved his arm to wrap around me. "You, okay?" I asked. He sighed, "I hate it so much. Saying bye to her," I reached up as I swept some of his hair out of his eyes. "I know, I'm sorry. You both deserve your time though. She's safe," I reminded him.
"Yea until she cries and clings to me as I put her in Eve's car. I feel guilty and terrible." He was agitated as I let my hand run down his arm, "Troy…"
"No, Gabi you just…" he took a big breath as he stood up. "I fucking hate it. I hate letting her go. I hate not spending every single day with her. I hate it. If something were to happen to us and we separated – you are living with me. I am never doing this with another kid." I just blinked at him as he tilted his head back. I watched his Adams apple bob in his throat for a moment. "She screamed as I shut the car door. I hate how that makes me feel inside."
I wrapped my arms around his middle, and I pressed my lips into his chest. "I'm sorry, I know how hard it is for you. I wish we could have Claire all summer long here but put yourself in Eve's shoes, Troy. She has the same feelings, and she probably feels awful hearing her daughter scream for you. She's six, Troy. I also hate not having her here." Troy just gave a nod before walking out. I just let off a sigh as I knew he wasn't mad at me. He was just mad at the situation. I took off my dress and changed into a pair of shorts with one of Troy's t-shirts. I walked downstairs as a few of our friends were still lingering.
We ordered in pizza as we all sat around watching a baseball game. Troy and Hanson were talking in the kitchen about something as Wren reached over to rub my belly. "Where is Scout?" I asked her and she smiled, "Napping in her play pen. How is my niece or nephew?" I laughed, "Good. I can't wait, Wren."
"I know, I can't wait to watch you."
My eyes peered over at Troy as he was in a mood, "I hate when Claire leaves," I admitted to Wren. "Does it make him upset?" I nodded, "Typically. She never wants to leave, and he never wants her to leave. They feed off each other and I just…I wish I could make it easier for the two of them. They are both so attached to each other."
"You do your best I would have to assume. It's an impossible situation. They both need to see their daughter."
"I know, I know. It was nice when we all lived here." Wren let out a laugh, "How come I assume it was a nightmare at times?" we both just giggled together as there was moments but overall, it was good. Once the pizza was here, we all ate together until it was time for all the friends to pack up. I hugged each of them and thanked them while they headed back to their hotels. Once Reni and Raven left, I went in search of my husband. I didn't have to look hard as he was sitting on the patio looking at the moon. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have snapped at you earlier."
I shook my head as I wrapped my arms around his neck from behind and kissed his neck. "I know it's not easy for either of you. I'm here for you though," Troy gave a half smile as I kissed his cheek and then his mouth. His hand found my body as he leads me around to his lap. "I can't do that with our baby," he whispered, and I nodded, "We won't, we're gonna make this work." I told him. He kissed my neck, "Promise?" he whispered.
"With everything," I whispered back to him.
Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023
Gabi's POV
29 Weeks Pregnant
"Gabi, it's a pleasure to meet you," Kelly Hartley shook my hand as I greeted her. "Kelly, it's a pleasure to meet you. I am so excited to be here. I know how popular your podcast is and I love what you are doing with it." Kelly gave a smile as her son, Luca, had fought neuroblastoma – twice. He beat it both times, but it never leaves you as a mother. "I love what you are doing with The Sunshine Pact. What I wouldn't have given to have something like that back when we were diagnosed." I agreed as we sat up for the interview in her little office. Luca was 15 now and had been cleared for over 9 years. Kelly was doing everything in her power to fight congress and getting funding for childhood cancer.
"Well, well, everybody, welcome back to cancer worst enemy – today I am so freaking excited to bring on a recent star in the cancer world the past handful of years – Gabriella Montez-Bolton, welcome," I grinned, "Thank you, I am so excited to be here. To talk all things about cancer."
"Maybe some about life."
I laughed, "Maybe some of that, too."
"Let's start with – what got you into nursing and then oncology?" Kelly asked, "Honestly, I loved helping people. I loved to volunteer when I was in high school and college and helping whomever I could. Dogs, senior citizens, young children, etc. It was just something that I was gravitated towards. Once I got to college and my world kinda got tipped upside down for a bit. I had no idea what I wanted to do but I shadowed a doctor one day, but I was so much more intrigued with the nurse's role. The connection, getting to get to know the families, getting to learn the kids, being an advocate – that's what I wanted to do." I shrugged, "So I went into nursing. While I was in nursing school, I found a family that just needed help and the daughter had cancer. We grew really close and when she passed away, I knew that was where I needed to go."
Kelly smiled, "They were lucky to find you and I know all the children at Boston's Children's were lucky to find you."
"Why thank you, I think it was the path that was always destined for me. I was supposed to be doing this and it later proved as to why now."
"Speaking of – we can't really go into the next part without talking about the fun part – how in the world did you meet Troy Bolton?" I laughed as I let a smile slip over my lips, "Troy Bolton and I met when we were 17 years old. We were juniors in high school, and I was put into his home room class. We were pretty much glued at the hip from that moment on until we graduated. We fell in love in high school, we volunteered together, I watched him wreck high school football programs – it was your prototypical high school romance. Then he decided to go to Alabama. He was supposed to go to UNC and at the last minute they told him he wouldn't start. Somehow the Alabama coach found out and called him. He just said yes. I was already going to UNC; I had a roommate, and it was where I wanted to go to school." I gave a grim smile, "Troy kinda felt stuck in the situation so he broke up with me right before he left."
Kelly raised a singular eyebrow, "Really? Just because he didn't know what to do?" I nodded, "I mean to be fair – he was 18 and felt the world on his shoulders at the moment. He knew how much I wanted to go to UNC and stay close to my family. I made it hard on him but yes, a lot of our break-up was due to miscommunication. If we would have just talked about it? I probably would have joined him after our first year but like my favorite saying - it all kinda worked out like it was supposed to work out."
"Because?" Kelly prompted, "Because if we didn't then Claire Bolton wouldn't be here and that would be a shame. She is…she is a bright star in the sky who everybody needs in their life. If it wasn't for Claire getting diagnosed with ALL – I don't know when I would have met Troy Bolton again."
"Because you became his private nurse?" I laughed, "Yes, I did. By chance. My boss asked if I wanted to work with a family to be their nurse at home. They were going to pay me a lot of money and I could use the money. I agreed. I had no idea who the family was, nor did I know that Troy was even on the unit. Once I walked into that room? It was like all the air was sucked out of me. I do need to make everybody aware – I hated that man. I hated." Kelly let out a surprise gasp and laugh, "At the time I had no idea what happened prior to him leaving for Alabama. I thought he just wanted to be single going there and didn't want me going. So, yea, I hated him."
"So, no love at first sight when you reunited?" I shook my head, "More like fire flames," Kelly laughed as we continued on with our story of getting back into Troy's life. Getting to know Claire and how everything about it changed my life.
"Where did The Sunshine Pact come into this?"
"I was going to go become an NP with a track focused on Oncology." Kelly made half a face and I laughed, "That was everybody's face when I told them. Nobody saw me in the rule but I kinda felt stuck. Then Troy Bolton walks back into my life, and we reunite with each other. I knew we could handle the separation, but I didn't want to handle the separation. I wanted to be with him. I wanted to be with Claire. A few people told me – I suddenly had a lot of money that I earned taking care of Claire. I should start a foundation for children with cancer. And it stuck. I built my board with two moms who lost their children. I found two parents who had their children but battled through the horrendous days. An older teenage girl who could provide insight for us. That's how it started, and we created baskets, we created things for parents, and the blankets. It might be my favorite part."
"I love it. I love the idea. I love knowing that you just want to help these kids."
"I do, none of them, absolutely none of them deserve this. Their innocence is stolen, and they spend too many days in the hospital. It's terrible and if I can do anything to make those kids smile."
"I know you do. I have asked a handful of people about you and that's pretty much what they all say – you bring the cheer and smiles to the unit. Those kids are so lucky to have you in their corner." I thanked her as we chatted a bit about The Sunshine Pact for a while long before she gave me a coy smile. "I hear you are starting a joint foundation with your husband – Dare To Dream." I raised an eyebrow, "Yea, we are. It's in the beginning stages still but it is very much something we are both passionate about." I told her. "Luca and well all of my kids were conceived via IVF."
My eyebrows shot up, "Really?" she nodded as my hand went to my stomach to fee my own little miracle roll in my belly. "Yup, it was the craziest times of my life, but we never talked about it with anybody because nobody was doing it." I blinked as I just gave a smile, "I'm glad I can bring less stigma to it. Troy was so unsure at the beginning sharing our journey, but I told him – I never see people of influence doing it. They never share. Why couldn't we do it? We had the public's attention. So, I did it. He started to see the effects and honestly. It helped me cope with everything."
"How far along are you?" she asked, and I smiled, "29 weeks. We're actually leaving for our babymoon/first anniversary trip later this week."
"Thank you for sharing that – especially the horrendous effects of the egg retrieval."
"Oh god! Those are the worst. I told Troy we are never doing that again."
"Fair, I wouldn't have either. I got my three from the first round and I was good."
"It was funny because during the egg retrieval – I felt horrible. I looked horrible. I had OHSS and it was just brutal the entire time. I was moody, crying, and felt like I couldn't do this. Yet, during the time it dawned on me that Claire fought cancer. Claire had to deal with the effects of chemo. Claire did all of that at five-years-old. Who was I to complain because I chose to do this? It helped a bit."
"Gabi, no, you could…egg retrievals are not fun. You are pumping yourself full of drugs. You get to complain. She probably complained. It's normal." I gave her a smile, "Thank you, I am so enjoying being pregnant though and I love feeling this sweet baby move."
"You don't know the sex yet? Is that right?" I nodded, "No idea. Troy and I wanted some sort of surprise in the end of all of this and that was the only surprise we were going to get."
"Do you have any inklings?" Kelly asked and I giggled, "No. Nothing. I think I will just be happy to have our baby here this summer."
"Not too much longer," I shook my head with a grin, "No, Claire and I are both so excited."
"And Troy?" I grinned, "Might be the most excited. Troy loves Claire and I cannot wait to watch him with a baby. He is the best dad, and I am lucky to do this with him."
"Well, we are lucky to have you in our worlds. Keep spreading sunshine, Gabi."
"I promise, I will."
Sunday, May 7th, 2023
1st Anniversary
Troy's POV
I pulled a technicality for Gabi and I's trip. We were in St. John – which was a United States territory but still got us out of the states. Gabi was so relaxed already being here and I smiled looking over at her. The ocean was hitting the sand as she was reading and her hand firmly on her belly. She was going to be thirty weeks pregnant tomorrow which was wild to me. I could have sworn we were just transferring this little Bee. Shit, I could have sworn we were just getting married. We arrived late on Friday and yesterday we spent the day lounging in bed and then exploring the area.
Gabi wanted to relax today, and I was all for it. Tonight, we had a fancy dinner planned together and then I was going to take her to watch the sunset before going back. I stood up and stretched as Gabi watched me for a moment, "Where are you off too?" she asked, and I nudged towards the ocean. "Wanna come with me?" she shook her head as she flipped the page in her book again. Her hand again rubbing her belly. "Is this our anniversary?" I teased her as I sat on the edge of her beach chair. Those brown eyes lifted to meet mine underneath of her hat.
"Don't guilt me,"
I just laughed as I leaned forward as I kissed her belly. "Hi Little Bee," I murmured against her skin. Gabi let her hand run through my hair as I looked up at her, "In less than ten weeks we'll know if this is a boy or girl," I said and she just smiled, "I know, I am so excited, Troy."
"It's flying by,"
Gabi agreed as I finally got up and went down to the ocean. The water was so blue as I floated on my back and relaxed as the sky was blue, too. I reminded myself over and over again – I needed to cherish this time with Gabi. I was never going to get just Gabi time again unless we were on vacation. As much as I hated saying bye to Claire, it gave me some time with Gabs. That was coming to an end, but I know how excited we both were about it. She was going to be the best mom. After only one year of marriage – it felt like so much longer.
"Boo," I smiled as I turned my head to see her floating into the water. "Should have tickled you underneath of the water." I laughed because it would have freaked me out. I put my feet back on the ground as I pulled her into my arms. "Maybe we should just stay here for a bit. Fly Claire out." I chuckled, "We have so much to do at home – like finish the nursery." Gabi never let the interior decorator finish the nursery at the beach house nor at the house in Boston. She was nervous letting them finish it feeling as if it was going to jinx everything.
"Oh yea?" she murmured as she tilted her head back. "I guess we are having a baby." I shook my head with a smile at her antics. "But the ocean is so blue,"
"Your favorite," Gabi nodded in agreement with my statement. She kissed on my neck while I squeezed her to me. "Can you believe it's been a year since we got high on the beach together?" Gabi let out a snort of a laugh while then proceeding to giggle more. "That was actually probably my favorite part."
"I don't know, you in that dress…" we both laughed together. "I think this next year is going to be the best one yet,"
"Yea? Why do you say that?" I asked her and she grabbed my hand to hold her belly. "Because we get to meet this baby. We get to be parents together. Claire gets a sibling. Why wouldn't this year be one of the best?" I tipped her head backwards as I kissed her. "Watching you become a mom? It's gonna be a top five moment."
"Watching you hold our baby?" I just smiled as we wadded in the water underneath of the sun. We finally made it back up to the beach as I tugged her into my beach lounger as I wrapped around her. Our bodies melting together as my hand rubbed on her belly. The sun was so warm, and it felt so good as we laid together in the shade. "This…this feels so good." She whispered and I kissed the back of her head. "I agree. This does feel good. I don't think I could have thought of a better way to celebrate our first year."
"Same," she whispered, and I knew she was getting sleeping so I just laid to her while she took a nap, and I just enjoyed my time with her.
Gabi's POV
My dress hugged my bump as it was fully black and was just before my knees as Troy held my hand across the property as we had dinner reservations. We had such a relaxed day together and I enjoyed it so much. The nap I took with him wrapped around me made me feel so much. I loved getting those moments with him and I was cherishing each and every single one. His fingers were loosely with mine as he went down a boat ramp and I raised an eyebrow. He was in a pair of dress pants with a fitted button up shirt tucked in with a belt. His nice shoes as he nodded towards the person at the top of the ramp.
"Welcome Mr. Bolton and Mrs. Bolton," Troy thanked the man as I followed him as we got onto the small yacht that had lights strung and music playing. "Troy," he just sent me a smile before climbing some stairs in the back and coming to a table up top with more lights. A candle and flowers were on the table with some non-alcoholic champagne. "Troy," I whispered, and he just turned to cup my face, "Happy first anniversary, baby. I can't wait to spend the next however many I am lucky to get with you." Troy kissed me once, twice, and then a third time with a smile on his face. "I love you,"
"I love you; this is…"
"It's not enough. Not after everything you endured this year to get here."
"Troy,"
"Nope. I'll hear none of it." I just shook my head with a smile as he pulled out my chair and I took a seat as he sat across from me. They poured the N/A champagne for each of us as Troy tilted our glasses together. "The first year of marriage was everything I could have wanted even with the challenges involved but I am so thankful for every single moment with you, El. The dances, the hugs, the sad moments and the really fucking happy moments. I loved them all in different ways. Mostly because I got to love you through them all."
Tears filled my eyes as I swallowed on the lump in my throat, "I love you, thank you for standing by my side and holding my hand. For being my support person. For being you. I truly don't think I would have made it out of that year without you." He squeezed my hand and let his thumb rub my hand. "You would have but I am glad I got to be by your side. I can't wait for the next year. Meeting our baby. But I am so lucky to get these last few weeks with you. To make our memories. To cherish each other."
"I know, I keep reminding myself that this is it. We won't get this time back until all of our kids are 18 and maybe even longer than that. I would never not let them be at home if they needed it." Troy squeezed my hand as they brought out appetizers while we sailed around the island. It was peaceful and the wind wasn't too strong. They were going at a pretty slow speed for us to enjoy this. "El, I know football season is crazy, but I just want you to know that we will make time for each other. A date night. A coffee in the morning. A chat before bed. Something for the two of us each day that we are both home together."
"Once we get back to Boston, we need to start finding a nanny."
"That we do. We also need to finalize our house plans so we can get started and move in before my contract is up," we both laughed together over that. It was going to take close to two years to build the house. I really wanted a soft cottage to feel to our house. Homey and comfortable – I never wanted it to feel too modern or stuffy. It was going to be a fairly large house with an office building in the back with a pool and a whole outdoor play area. Troy and I agreed to do seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms. A playroom, a theater, a very large kitchen with a big dining room. Troy and I wanted our room on the main level with two rooms near ours – for the small kids. Who would gradually get to be moved upstairs or downstairs. We wanted a big living room and just for everybody to be able to enjoy it.
"I think we almost have it," I reminded him, and he nodded, "I know. I just want to get started. I want us to have our dream home there." I squeezed his hand as I couldn't wait to see it come alive myself. Once our appetizer was finished, I switched to water while Troy ordered a whiskey. I raised my eyebrow as he just chuckled as he knew my own weakness. "I still want to travel with you everywhere. Even with the baby."
"Good. I want you and Claire there plus I want our baby there. Just…" Troy pulled his lip inside his mouth and laughed, "Can we not have the baby outside during the fucking cold games?" he said laughing and I just laughed myself, "I promise. No baby outside when it's cold outside. I will leave him inside with a pansy," Troy just rolled his eyes with a smile on his face. I squeezed his knee as dinner arrived while the music wafted through along with the sun dipping into the ocean. It was stunning. I took a video and let Troy pop in at the end.
One year of being spoiled by him daily – love you so much t
I posted it on my story after tagging him and tucking my phone away. The food was delicious and the mocktail they brought me was even better. I felt so good, light, and loose out here. Once I was done eating, I went over to stand on the edge to look out at the ocean. The sky was pink, purple, and orange as he came to stand behind me. "You look beautiful," he whispered, and I shook my head, "I have a big belly," Troy shook his head and pressed his mouth to mine. "Shush, you do not body shame yourself – ever."
I felt chills run down my spine as he pulled out his phone and showed me a picture, he snapped of me. I was pressing my hand to my bump while staring at the ocean. It was a really pretty picture and I felt good. "You are gorgeous, El. Never doubt it. Especially while pregnant. You are fucking beautiful, and I will prove it to you over and over again."
"Promise?" I asked and those blue eyes heated and darkened. Those eyelids almost instantly heavy as he gripped my hips, "With everything and more, I won't break that promise." I smiled and melted into his body as suddenly the music shifted, and we were dancing to I Don't Dance by Lee Brice. My head rested on his chest and his body was so warm against mine. This all felt so good. "The best year, the hardest year, but the best is yet to come." He murmured and I leaned up to kiss him. I couldn't handle it anymore as I circled my arms around his neck as he lost his last self-restraint kissing me.
"Yea, we're gonna have to turn this boat around," Troy said, and I busted into giggles. "Yea, we really, really should."
Thank you ALL for the patience for this chapter! I felt like I had to finish Coach's Wife as it was sucking the writing soul out of me some days which in turn made me not want to write at all. I am SO glad to be back with this family! So many cute little moments and excitement in this story! I hope you all enjoyed this chapter!
I will be taking a small hiatus only because I am having another surgery tomorrow morning. Time to remove some hardware. Hopefully I am back writing in no time but will give an update when I have a better idea! Thanks for the love and patience!
Xx