Story: I Feel it All
Chapter Thirteen, One Foot on the Ground
Author: Bellakatalina
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Takes place after A Thin Line between Chuck and Nate. The story starts as soon as Blair leaves the bar after talking to Chuck. Blair doesn't runaway she stays and decides to disappear.
Disclaimer: Sadly, I don't own Gossip Girl…
"I never love nobody fully
Always one foot on the ground
And by protecting by heart truly
I got lost in the sounds
I hear in my mind all these voices
I hear in my mind all these words
I hear in my mind all this music
And it breaks my heart
It breaks my heart"
Fidelity, Regina Spektor
--
When Lily van der Woodsen had a new boyfriend she threw herself into the relationship. Her boyfriends would wisp her away on romantic vacations and her children would go to stay at the Waldorf's until her return. Serena and Blair had been best friends and turned into sisters. Eric had been the tagalong and turned into a little brother to Blair, as well. When Blair's mother would destroy her self esteem she would run to her sister for help and, they had become each other's family.
So, although Eric didn't truly like the idea of what they were going to do to Jenny he couldn't bare anyone hurting someone he cared about so much. Jenny had been changing and not in a good way. He missed the innocence his friend had formally possessed. Maybe if she was knocked off of her high horse she would remember who she had been. Eric tossed his phone from hand to hand as he decided what to do.
"You don't have to do this if you don't want to." Serena's calming voice offered Eric a choice.
Jenny had been a good friend to him. She had been there when he wanted to talk about his problems and the Ostroff Center. But, then as her popularity increased she changed. She no longer made time for her friend. It seemed the only time Jenny ever called him was when she wanted something. That wasn't friendship. It was true; Jenny had been a good friend. Had been past tense, she no longer was his friend.
"No, I want to do this for, Blair." Eric said remembering all the times Blair had been there for him. She was difficult and troublesome but Eric never doubted that she cared for him.
"Okay, Eric, just like we practiced. Don't be nervous, okay?" Serena replied encouragingly.
Eric took a deep breathe as he searched through his contact list. The ringing was starting to make him nervous. What if she didn't pick up? Could he leave her a message? Suddenly Eric's mind was flooding with what ifs as he waited for her voice, but his heart slowed down when he heard her voice on the other end.
"Hello?" Jenny asked quickly.
"Hey, Jenny, it's Eric."
"Oh, hey. What's up?"
"Oh nothing I just got back from the Caribbean today-"
"That's great Eric. Umm could I call you later? I am really busy." Jenny replied not really paying too much attention to Eric.
"Oh sorry. I was just calling to see if you were interested in a modeling job, but if you are too busy…" Eric said as he dangled the bait.
"Wait a modeling job? Really?" Jenny voice asked excitedly.
"Yeah, there was a message left on the answering machine for Serena but she isn't modeling anymore so I thought you might be interested, but if you are too busy…"
"No I could do it! So what would I be modeling for like runway or photography? This is so cool." Jenny squealed on the other side of the phone as her imagination took off with all of the possibilities.
"It's for an article in Seventeen magazine. The want to take some sample pictures, but it sounds like a pretty sure thing." Eric lied knowing that she was garaunteed the position. A few calls from Serena praising Jenny's looks and talent combined with a few females Chuck knew who worked at the magazine had easily saved a spot for her picture as well as an article to accompany it.
"This is amazing! What do I need to do?" Jenny demanded wanting the details.
"I'll text you the address. They just need you to show up at 9:00 a.m, and they will do a few test shots. If everything works out then they will get someone do your hair and make up and take the photos for the magazine." Eric said the lines he had been rehearsing.
"I can't believe I might be in Seventeen magazine! Thank you so much for this, Eric!"
"Sure, what are friends for, right?" Eric asked not able to meet her enthusiasm.
"And you are sure Serena is cool with me taking her modeling job?"
"Yeah she is happy for you to do it. She called and suggested you to the photographer after I mentioned you might be interested."
"This is so great. Well, E, I guess I better go. I have to figure out where out what to wear tomorrow. I'll call you later." Jenny finished quickly as she ended the conversation. A photo spread in Seventeen was going to cement her position in the inner clique with the girls.
"You did so great, Eric!" Serena said as she wrapped him up into a giant hug.
"I'm sure she believed it. Now, we just have to make sure her dad lets her do it." Eric told her as he pulled out of the hug and sat on the couch.
"That is if she even asks, you mean. But, Dan has promised to help convince his dad that Jenny should do it if it comes up." Serena informed him.
"So he knows what the article is about?" Eric asked surprised Dan was willing to do this to his sister.
Serena shook her head to the side quickly and sat down next to her brother.
"No and he doesn't want to know. Dan wants to help, but he also doesn't want to hurt his sister. So, we've agreed to tell him as little about what is going on as possible. This way he isn't responsible and he can't do anything to stop it." Serena said thinking about how sweet Dan had been helping them through all of this.
"Do you think this will stop her?" Eric asked looking at his sister.
"Yes. These girls are so fickle. They will abandon her the minute she makes them look bad."
"Okay, well if you need anything else just let me know." Eric said as he got up from the couch to make his way to his bedroom.
"Thank you, Eric. Blair really appreciates it." Serena said honestly.
She reached for her cell phone to send out a text message.
Phase two complete. Nate's turn tomorrow.
-S
----
The text message brought a smile to Chuck's face. Everything was going according to plan. After lunch, he and Serena had been on the phone arranging the details with Seventeen. Apparently, his future little brother was learning well and had accomplished his portion of their plan.
He was sitting in the Palace bar enjoying his usual Scotch. Chuck didn't want to be there when Nathaniel picked up Blair for the musical so he had found refuge in the bar. After running into a few acquaintances, Chuck had stayed for a few hours. At this rate, Chuck decided to stay for a few more drinks before heading back up stairs so he wouldn't run into Nate dropping Blair off.
Nathaniel honestly thinks he can compete with me? I know Blair better than anyone. He may have been her boyfriend for years but has no clue how to win her. No one understands or appreciates her like I do.
Chuck had decided he wouldn't rush anything. He would let Blair come to him. Until she decided she wanted more than just friendship he would be there for her as just a friend.
A friend who I have inappropriate dreams about.
God, I hope she figures out how badly she wants me soon.
Chuck looked at his empty Scotch. He was about to signal the waitress to bring him another one when a drink appeared on his table from a slim wrist with a perfect French manicure.
"I noticed you were empty." Hazel's voice explained the drink she had brought to him.
Chuck took a sip of the drink without offering a thank you as Hazel sat at the table accompanying him.
"What are you doing here?" Chuck asked letting her know she had not been invited. He was around her from time to time because they were in the same social circle, but Hazel wasn't someone he spent a lot of one on one time with.
"Came with some of my girls and I noticed you by yourself so I thought I might come over and say 'hi'." She said as she twirled a piece of hair.
"Well, hello." Chuck replied looking away.
"Oh, Chuck Bass, don't be like that. It has been a terribly boring night and I thought you might be able to make it more interesting." Hazel said seductively.
"I mean tonight has been all about Jenny Humphrey. So, I am ready to move on to bigger and better people." Hazel continued as she pouted her lips out.
Chuck's attention perked up at the mention of Jenny's name.
"Oh really? Well, how about I buy us another round and you tell me all about it?" Chuck asked as he gave her his signature smirk.
"Sounds good." Hazel smiled happily.
--
It was rather amazing what a great mood Blair was in. She couldn't believe how stupid and careless she had been a few days before. She was on top of the world even though her entire world believed the terrible gossip about her. Except the most important people, of course.
The day had been a bit bizarre. Chuck had been so sweet to her in the morning when he had woken her from her nightmare. Then Nate came and apologized. He had been so honest and heartfelt and had asked for a chance to regain her friendship to which she told him he already had. Lunch with the foursome had been a bit awkward at first, but after the plotting it had been like old times. Nate had come across some amazing tickets to Chicago, so Serena had taken her to Bergdorf's where Blair bought a sexy Yves St. Laurent white dress with a black pattern for the occasion.
How could she have ever felt so alone? Blair was surrounded by people who loved her. These were her true friends, her true family and no matter what happened, a fight couldn't break them apart.
Nate had been unable to tear his eyes away from Blair the entire night. She radiated beauty. Her hair was elegantly pulled up. He had never noticed how she lip sang along to the music. How many times had they seen Chicago together, and how had he never noticed before this evening?
Nate was going to use the years of knowledge he had to win Blair back. He was confidant that he had the upper hand in this competition. He thought smugly of Chuck having to admit he lost.
As the audience was getting up from their seats to leave, Nate stood and offered Blair his arm. She smiled at his chivalry and accepted his arm as she gracefully stood up and smoothed out the nonexistent wrinkles in her dress.
"Thank you Nate. You know how much I love going to the theatre. I can't remember the last time I got to see Chicago."
Nate flashed Blair his charming grin.
"I know it's been a long time since we have gone out to see a musical. We should come more often." Nate suggested hopefully.
"That would be fun. I know Serena's wants to see Wicked. Maybe we could get the group together?" Blair suggested. Nate's smile tightened at her words, but he nodded his head humoring her as he continued to usher her out of the theatre.
"Well, the night is still young we could go out for dessert?" Nate offered not wanting to take Blair home so early.
"I don't know, Nate, we've got a busy day tomorrow. You have to accidentally run into Jenny pretty early in the morning. Maybe a victory celebration tomorrow night instead?" Blair offered as she smiled at him.
"I'm actually getting sleepy." Blair said as a small yawn escaped her perfectly red lips.
"Of course." Nate said as he signaled for the driver of the town car to pick them up.
The ride was silent. Blair was ready to get into her nightgown and get under the covers. As much as Blair loved getting dressed up and going out she also loved spending time relaxing. Her dressy nightgown's made her feel sexy.
"You look really beautiful tonight, Blair." Nate said as the car made its stop.
"Thanks, Archibald, you don't look so bad yourself." Blair said flirtatiously.
Nate got out of the care and offered Blair his hand which she took. He placed his arm around Blair as he walked her inside the hotel.
"I had a really good time tonight, Blair."
Blair smiled happily.
"Me too. I'll see you tomorrow." Blair said as she reached up to give Nate a tight hug.
"Goodnight." Nate finished as he watched Blair get into the elevator.
As the doors closed Blair grabbed her phone to turn the ringer back on and noticed the new text waiting on the screen.
B-
Staying with Dan tonight. Call if you need me.
Love,
S
Blair sighed as she placed her phone back in her bag. As much as she hated to admit it Humphrey was starting to grow on her…a bit. He was still from Brooklyn after all, and he couldn't go a single moment without voicing his judgments, but he was good for Serena and that's what was most important.
As she entered the suite she noticed all the lights were out. Bart and Lily had decided to stay in the Caribbean for sometime on their own.
"Chuck? Eric?" Blair called into the emptiness. When no one answered her she made her way to Serena's room to undress. Blair stood at the mirror and pulled the pins out of her hair and watched as her brown curls fell onto her shoulders beautifully. If Blair had to pick a favorite feature about herself it would be her hair. Her chocolate tendrils always fell perfectly into place.
Blair unzipped the dress and grabbed it to hang it in the closet space she had stolen from Serena. She skimmed her chemises trying to pick one out to wear. Blair could never imagine going to sleep in pajama pants or anything of the sort. Her lace and silky nightgowns were as much fun to wear to bed as picking out a gorgeous dress to wear to a party. She slipped into a black lace chemise that fit her snuggly. The lace around her stomach was the only material that covered it and allowed her snow white skin to peak through.
After finishing her evening beauty routine, Blair decided to sneak into the kitchen for a late night snack before bed.
--
The conversation with Hazel had been mind numbingly dull. Chuck had hoped by drinking more she might pique his interest, but his plan had failed. She hadn't even divulged any helpful information on Jenny.
"Chuck-Chuck, are you listening to me?" Hazel voice asked as she placed a hand on Chuck's leg.
"Yes, you were rambling." Chuck said not paying attention.
"Would you like to go somewhere else?" She asked noticing she was losing his interest and her hand crept a bit further up his leg.
"What did you have in mind?" Chuck asked as he stared into his empty glass. Hazel's other hand reached toward him and pulled his face towards hers as she leaned in.
"Maybe something along these lines…" Hazel replied as she closed the distance between herself and Chuck. Her lips attacked Chuck at an unnatural pace. Chuck kissed her back slowly trying to decide if he was interested or not. It had been a few days since he had been with anyone, but something wasn't right.
Her lips weren't soft and luscious as he would have liked. Her thin dry lips made kissing her rather unenjoyable.
Her taste was missing that delicious sweetness that he enjoyed so much.
Also, he felt as though he was being attacked by this girl.
Chuck pulled away from the kiss and wiped his mouth off with the back of his hand.
"I think I'll pass." Chuck said as he scooted a bit farther away from Hazel.
"Come on Chuck…" Hazel whispered seductively into his ear. "I've never known you to turn down a girl." She said as breathed onto his neck.
The smell of alcohol on a female was unattractive to Chuck. He never liked a girl to be so sloppy. And what perfume was she wearing? Was that Obsession? Chuck grimaced at the thought. He preferred J'adore Dior which Blair typically wore.
"Desperation isn't attractive." Chuck said leaning away from her. Hazel's hand crept higher up Chuck's leg.
"Are telling me you honestly don't want to go up to your place and have some fun?" Hazel asked not giving up. Chuck grabbed her hand and roughly placed it onto the table.
"Hmm that is a good idea." Chuck said as he began to get up from his chair. "I'm going to go up to my room, and you are going leave me the hell alone." With that final statement Chuck made his way to the elevator leaving a stunned Hazel behind. Although, he and Blair were only friends he couldn't help but feel guilty about what had happened.
You just kissed Hazel. What is wrong with you?
But what bothered him more than the fact that he kissed Hazel was how he had compared everything about Blair to her. No one could compare to Blair, he knew that. No woman would satisfy his craving for Blair. So, what was he going to do be celibate until Blair realized how perfect they were for each other?
Not a chance. If she just wants to be friends I am more than entitled to sleep with who ever I want. We aren't even in a relationship. Why am I acting like this?
Chuck's mind wondered to the last blonde he had bedded. Blair had come over, and the look she had in her eyes when she saw him and the naked girl in his bed was devastating.
Who was Chuck trying to fool? He wasn't going to sleep with anyone unless it was Blair.
Damn it, Blair! You better figure this out soon.
Chuck made his way into the suite. He hoped that Nate had already dropped Blair off. He didn't want to witness him saying his goodbyes to Blair. As he entered the kitchen he saw Blair standing as she rested her elbow on the counter and ate some strawberries and cream.
His eyes dilated as he saw what she was wearing. The black lace clung to her like a second skin. Her pert ass looked amazing. Chuck swallowed loudly deciding what to do.
Screw taking things slow!
Chuck quietly walked up to Blair who was still oblivious. With his left hand he reached out and gently pushed her hair to the side, "Evening, Waldorf." He whispered huskily against her neck. He smirked when he felt her shiver in response.
"Chuck I didn't hear you come in." Blair said as she turned to face him and found herself trapped between the counter and Chuck. His eyes immediately went to her plunging neckline and the small pink bow that rested between her cleavage. She smiled as she heard Chuck grown not taking his eyes off of her body.
Chuck rested his arms against the counter on either side of Blair pinning her in place.
"Have fun with Nathaniel?" Chuck asked as he gently ran his thumb down the side of her bare arm. The heat that Blair felt when Chuck touched her was driving Blair crazy. She could feel her face flushing at the contact.
Blair cleared her throat before she could speak.
"Mmhmm. You know Nate always the perfect gentleman." She said trying not to allow him to know how she was feeling.
Get a hold of yourself he is barely touching you!
Chuck's eyes caught on her stomach that was not well covered by the black lace. His hand moved from where he had been running it up and down her arm to the side of her stomach to feel the soft lace.
"How very exciting." Chuck replied sarcastically. It wasn't fair, he thought.
If she wants to just be friends she can't dress like this.
Unsure of what to do Blair turned back around to take a bite of her food.
"I was just finishing up my snack." Blair said pathetically as she tried to think of something to say. She finished her last bight of strawberry and placed the bowl back on the counter. Blair took a small step back and ran into Chuck's hard body.
"Sorry." She said as she turned around to look him in the eye.
Chuck's hand reached up to her lips and Blair quickly smacked it away before he could touch her face.
"Wh-What are you doing?" Blair snapped not wanting this interaction to lead anywhere, or so she kept telling herself.
"Relax, Waldorf, you've got a little something..." Chuck said as he reached again and touched her bottom pouty lip ever so softly. Chuck brought the cream from the strawberry on his thumb to his lips and sucked the flavor. "So sweet." Chuck said as he watched Blair. She traced the edge of her lip where Chuck had touched with her tongue.
"Th-thanks." Blair said as she stepped to the side.
"So are you going to be coming to bed with me again tonight?" Chuck asked as he raised an eyebrow suggestively. "I can show you how ungentlemanly I can be."
"No need. I am fully aware of that." Blair sassed returning to her normal self.
"I wouldn't want you to get lonely tonight with Serena gone."
"I think I can manage." Blair said as she gave him one of her sickeningly sweet smiles.
"I have a feeling you will be joining me. You can't resist me."
"Good night, Bass."
"Sweet dreams, Waldorf." Chuck said as he watched Blair retreat.
"As long as they aren't of you." Blair replied over her shoulder as she continued her way to Serena's room. Blair's hips swayed a bit extra as she left the room. Chuck's eyes never looked away.
Chuck sighed out loud and decided to go take a shower. A cold shower.
Hours later, Blair was tossing and turning against the silk sheets. The nightmare from the night before was haunting her again. At this rate, Blair wouldn't get any sleep. She slipped out of the sheets and made her way down the hall.
Blair knocked softly on the door. When she received no answer she gently opened the door to reveal a sleeping Chuck. Blair smiled as she closed the door behind her. He looked so innocent, but she knew the truth. She reached out and traced his jaw line with her index finger. He had such smooth skin.
"Chuck?" She called softly but he did not answer. Blair delicately ran her finger back up his jaw line until her hand reached his dark hair. She buried her fingers into his hair admiring how smooth it was until she clinched her fingers and pulled it roughly.
Chuck's eyes snapped open from his blissful state of sleep.
"What the fu-" Chuck angrily called out until he saw who the dainty arm belonged to and gave her his infamous Chuck Bass smirk. "I knew you would get lonely, Blair. But, I didn't realize you wanted to be so rough."
Blair rolled her eyes at Chuck's words.
"Don't be so smarmy."
"Then what brings you to my bed at such a late hour, Waldorf."
Blair sat on the edge of his bed and looked for her hands for a second. Chuck noticed the change in her composure instantly and sat up.
"I had the nightmare again." She finally said in a small voice. Chuck wrapped his arm around her protectively and ran his hand up and down her arm soothingly.
"Do you want to talk about it?" He offered concerned. Blair shook her head no.
"I just didn't want to be by myself. Can I stay with you tonight?" Blair asked shyly.
"I knew you would be getting into my bed tonight." Chuck said to which he earned another eye roll.
Chuck scooted over in the bed and then raised the sheets for Blair to join him. She hesitated for a moment.
"I promise I won't bite…unless you want me to." Chuck finished smirking.
"Do you always have to be so pervy?"
"Don't pretend like you don't enjoy it." Chuck challenged.
"You wish." Blair said as she slipped in to his silky sheets secretly knowing his statement to be true.
Their lighthearted banter disappeared when Chuck noticed the worry still in Blair's eyes.
"Can I get you anything?" Chuck asked but Blair simply shook her head. "Blair, I promise you this will work. Okay?"
Instead of a response, Blair scooted into Chuck molding herself against his body.
"Thank you, Chuck." She said unaware of how Chuck's body was reacting to the feel of his bare chest against her flimsy lace chemise. Chuck wrapped his arms around her without thinking and she buried herself into them.
"Anything for you, Waldorf." He answered as he sighed.
How the hell am I going to sleep now?
Her skin felt so soft against him that Chuck knew he was in for long night. But, he wouldn't have traded it for anything in the world.
--
A/N
Sorry it has been a week. I promise to update at least once a week, but the semester is almost over and then I will be updating more frequently. Thanks to everyone for reviewing! You all are amazing and motivate me to write! Let me know what you think!