A/N: Hello everyone! Even though I'm not participating in NaNoWriMo, I've gotten into the spirit of it and will try to write as much as I can this month. My goal is to get to at least chapter fifteen. I'm hoping I'll get there!

Disclaimer: I do not own GG or any of its characters. All the OC's are mine.

Chapter 13: Fatal Detraction

Once the doors shut, the elevator ascended and the pressure thickened in Evelyn's ears. She swallowed hard, trying to relieve the pressure but it kept building up. Her heart was beating furiously. She leaned back against the wall of the elevator, and gripped the handrail that poked the small of her back.

Did I really just do that? Evelyn wondered with disbelief.

Numbers flashed above the doors of the elevator. After passing the twelfth floor, Evelyn relaxed a bit. Her hands were clammy but felt colder than the rain that pelted outside.

She knew she could have waited. She could have talked to her father when he came home much later in the evening. Evelyn had plenty of opportunities, but couldn't do it alone. She would see her father and say hello, before he'd go to sleep upstairs after a long day of work. When he told the family he was leaving for a business trip for week, she thought it would only occur once in a while. Over the past two months, her father has been out of the country or busy at work in the city. She didn't directly say anything to anybody, but Evelyn began to feel frustrated. Why bother wanting to connect with your child if you don't have enough time to?

The elevator finally leveled and the pressure in Evelyn's ears popped. The doors opened and Evelyn bolted through them. Glancing around the area, lots of individual offices were sectioned off going left, right and ahead of her. Instinctively, Evelyn walked forward and at the end of the hall a sign read C.E.O. BARTHOLOMEW BASS.

Evelyn rapped the door twice and entered. As Robert had said, Bart was busy on the phone. His blue eyes – so similar to her own – locked with hers. He was surprised, but still cool as ice. Always.

Evelyn waited and waited as her father talked. The longer he was on the phone the angrier she got. She could only be ignored for so long. She didn't say anything over the past couple of months. But now, her father's indifference was now apparent more than ever. It was time to break her silence.

A couple minutes passed and Chuck appeared at the door and stopped dead in his tracks. Bart's eyes train between his son and daughter questioningly. Chuck just gave an I-told-you-so look to Evelyn. She huffed indigently.

Finally, Bart hung up the phone and addressed his children. "Hi Evelyn, Chuck. What brings you here?"

Evelyn stepped forward. "Well-"

Chuck grabbed her arm. "I think we should go-"

Evelyn shot her brother a stern look and wiggled out of his grasp. "No."

"Uh – Can someone tell me what's going on here?"

Evelyn sighed and kept her voice even. "Chuck and I have some things we have to tell you."

Bart's face contracted with concern. "Is there something wrong? Did either of you get in trouble at school?"

Evelyn swallowed thickly, and ran her clammy hands down her pleated skirt. Why was this so hard? "Not exactly."

Their father's cold eyes stared back at her, expectantly. No wonder Chuck stayed silent for so many years. Their father's stare alone was intimidating enough to make any person run for the nearest exit. Evelyn took a step forward and stood in front of one of the leather chairs opposite to his desk. Her hands twitched to feel her golden locket; to fiddle with its golden chains.

"I know you've been really busy lately… but um…"

The phone rang again and both sets of eyes trained to the flashing red light. Bart reached for the phone. "Just one second."

Just like that, Evelyn felt an invisible slap across her face. He could always call someone back, but shouldn't she come first. Shouldn't they come first?

Chuck had said a couple months ago, "Business always comes first." She didn't initially believe him, but now it was clear. It made sense now why Chuck didn't want to come. He'd been brushed off all his life and ignored. She wouldn't have it anymore. It needed to stop now. Not just for herself, but Chuck to.

Bart lifted the receiver for it to only be slammed back down by Evelyn. "No." She felt her temper rise, her face serious. "I came from my home, my family to meet you, to live with you and you won't even give me the time of day! A phone call is more important isn't it?"

Her father's eyes widened, his brows raised. "I-I thought this is what you've wanted."

Evelyn stood her ground, not caring for her brother's reaction behind her. "I thought so to. I did in the beginning. But then you left. Again and again."

"Usually I don't leave as often as I have the past couple months but I have obligations-"

Really? He was going to turn it around on her and play the guilt card? Evelyn willed herself not to fall for it. Not this time. "That's not what I heard. I've been told to get used to it."

Bart blinked back at her, surprise evident in his eyes. "I didn't know you felt this way."

"You don't know at all how I feel. You think you've gotten to know me but you haven't. You've barely tried."

Bart's eyes flash with hurt. He looks down at his desk as words eluded him. Evelyn turned her head to Chuck who is as still as she's ever seen him. He avoids her glance, staring at his perfectly shined shoes. Her eyes wandered to Bart's phone which flashed with unheard messages. His desk was stacked high with file folders and business reports.

Evelyn's cheeks flushed. She shouldn't have said any of those things. She didn't think of her dad's position. She didn't think that he worked so hard to earn the lifestyle they have. Maybe this is why her brother stayed silent? He felt ashamed to argue with a father that has given so much. For Evelyn he's given her more material needs she could ever wish for. But it wasn't what she wanted. She longed for her father. She wanted a man to care for her, talk about her fears and nightmares. She needed someone who could comfort her no matter how she treated them. Her Uncle Travis was nice, but she didn't share a connection with him. He was always her uncle and she only spoke of trivial things to him. With her father – her real father – she wanted so much more. Didn't he want the same thing?

"I'm sorry." Her father's voice is small and filled with shame. He wipes his face with his weathered hands. "I didn't know."

"I knew you didn't." Evelyn replied. "That's why I had to tell you. If I didn't I'd burst at some point."

Bart grinned and shook his head. Evelyn looked back at him with a confused expression. "What?" She asked.

"You're so much like your mother."

Evelyn smiled sadly. She was? Pride coursed through her veins and her heart fluttered with excitement. She wanted to know more; so much more. "Really?" She squeaked.

"More than you know."

Evelyn bit her lip as she smiled back. Her heart soared as thousands of questions threatened to spill past her lips.

"Listen, why don't we go for coffee now and you ask me anything. Tell me everything you want to tell me."

Evelyn's smile threatened to split her face in two. "That's the best thing you've said to me so far."

"Well, that's no good. I've got a lot to make up for then." He stood up and Evelyn suddenly remembered Chuck's was standing behind her this whole time by the door.

As she turned her head she began to say, "Chuck, do you have time to-"The words stopped flowing past her lips.

Chuck was gone.

Block by block, street corner by street corner, Chuck stumbled numbly through the streets of Manhattan. He didn't have any particular direction where he was going. He allowed his feet to take him wherever they pleased. He passed a crosswalk and had to stop, out of breath. He clutched a nearby park bench while his whole afternoon replayed in his mind.

"You are so much like your mother."

Chuck left after that comment. Fled quickly and silently. He was perfecting it. He knew where he was wanted and where he wasn't. He felt misplaced as the whole scene before him played out. He wished he didn't witness it, for it reminded him of one thing.

He was a coward.

He didn't hate his sister for what she did. In fact, he thought it was brave and earnest. For years he dreamed in different ways standing up to Bart like she did, but whenever an opportunity came, he would find an excuse to not follow through. Like crystal glass he cracked under the pressure. He couldn't find his voice, or courage.

He was a coward.

Would things change in the family? No doubt in Chuck's mind did he believe that Bart would favor his sister over him. Whereas Chuck resembled their mother more than Evelyn, she inherited more of her personality traits. These traits complimented Bart's driven, intimidating and dominant personality. She exhibited today that she can go toe to toe against Big Bart Bass – an impressive feat considering few would ever attempt what she did.

Chuck patted his coat pockets, in search for something, anything to calm him down. He pulled a rolled joint and light up. After his first puff his nerves were still hyped up. After smoking for years now, it took longer for the symptoms to take effect. Chuck inhaled deeply a couple more times. He sat on the park bench and leaned his head back. Now he felt a bit more relaxed.

He didn't move for a few moment and watched cars and buses fly by. The more he smoked the more confused he got. Everything was moving so fast around him and he was still. It scared him, not knowing where to go, what to do. He wished someone was around who understood the feeling.

Nate.

Who better than Natefused? Chuck chuckled to himself for the nickname. With languid motions, Chuck pulled out his phone and called his best friend. Then Arthur. He decided he was done walking for the day, and wasn't completely sure how to get home in his state. As he waited, Chuck continued to watch the cars pass by honking loudly all while he stood still.

Evelyn sipped her steaming hot chocolate, savoring the sweet milky liquid down her throat. She felt lighter than she had been in a while. Evelyn began to smile more, her heart lift being so close to her father. She'd always dreamed of a moment like this, simple and intimate. She pinched herself a couple times when her father wasn't looking, just to make sure everything that transpired was real. Evelyn pinched her white skin faintly. A light pink pinch mark scarred her skin and faded away. This was real; completely real.

She was so glad she confronted her father. Although difficult, it was worth it. Her father simply didn't know he disregarded her and appeared indifferent about her living with his family. Evelyn's mind wandered to other scenarios when her whole family – Bass family – could come together united. The thought was sacred; it was unachievable.

Not anymore.

Evelyn listened to her father's endless apologies. He asked her to tell him everything and she did – mostly. There were some things a father shouldn't know about a daughter; at least for Evelyn, she wasn't ready to tell him yet.

"I can imagine getting those papers seemed out of the blue, but uh, I've been working for a while to get back my custody of you."

"What took so long then?"

Bart sipped his black coffee. "Well, after a while I then became very wealthy at Bass Industries. I had updates on how you were doing, and before I knew it, you had an established life with your aunt and uncle. I didn't think it was fair to uproot you from that, and you seemed very happy. I had Chuck with me and as a single dad, it was a bit difficult for me to care for him. Not financially of course, but well, sometimes a son needs a mother. I couldn't fill that void."

Evelyn nodded with understanding. Earlier, she texted Chuck and asked if he wanted to go for coffee with their father. She hoped they could all talk together and work things out. He never answered her messages. Evelyn knew Chuck had lots of issues with their dad, but she didn't want to get involved. It wasn't in her place. All she wanted to do was guide Chuck, and help him get the courage to speak.

So far, she'd been unsuccessful.

"If you didn't do anything, when I turned eighteen I was going to go looking for you." Evelyn tucked a dark lock of hair behind her ear. "I'm glad you came for me. My worst fear was that you didn't want me."

Bart gave her a quizzical look. "Well, you are sorely mistaken. I've wanted my daughter back since she was taken from me. I had an opportunity last fall and I took it."

Evelyn smiled, real and genuine. Bart stared at her for a moment too long and shook his head. Evelyn's smile faltered. "What is it?"

Bart's mournful eyes locked with hers. "You have your mother's smile."

Evelyn's eyes fell to her lap. "Oh. Is that a good thing or a bad thing?"

"It's a great thing," Bart reassured her.

Evelyn's smile drifted back to face again. "I kind of knew that already."

"How?"

She reached under her shirt and pulled out her long golden locket. She dipped her head and slipped the golden chain off her neck. She handed it to her father and he took it. He examined every crevice, every design on the locket. He unlatched the locket and his eyes widened when he saw the picture.

"I remember always having this necklace, ever since I was little. I-I never take it off because…" Evelyn trailed off her cheeks reddening.

Her father was caught in a trance, as if everything in the world stood still. His lips twitched into a sad grin. He looked up and sighed, the moment passed. He handed it back to Evelyn. "You were saying?"

"Oh! Umm yes, I-I never take off this necklace." Evelyn slipped it over her head and tucked it away to safety. "I like the idea of carrying her around where I go, so she's always with me."

Her father's eyes were thoughtful and warm. It was a far cry from the big business mogul he always was to the world. She took another sip of her hot chocolate.

"If you don't mind me asking – I've always wanted to know – what was mom like?"

"A lot like you."

Evelyn wasn't satisfied with that answer. "How so?"

"She was very brave and honest. I wouldn't be where I am if she wasn't honest about how she felt on some of the decisions I was making."

Brave? Me? Evelyn wondered. Surly her father didn't know enough about her yet to be calling her that. He didn't know everything about her yet. Coming to New York, standing up to the biggest business man in New York was- okay yes that was pretty brave. But there were other moments when she was the biggest coward. He just didn't know. He didn't know that coming to live with him came at a very convenient time. He didn't know that if he asked a month earlier she would have declined the offer.

All of that was far behind her now and would never bother her again. Why tell, when not asked?

"Anything else?"

Bart chucked. "I'm not sure yet. I'm trying to find out remember?"

Evelyn smiled shyly. "You'll find out soon enough."

Her father checked his watch. Hours had flown by and it was almost time for supper. The Van der Bass' planned to be having a family dinner tonight. Evelyn finished the rest of her hot chocolate and stuffed her arms into the sleeves of her heavy coat. It didn't feel heavy. Nothing did.

Her father opened the door for her and they walked toward the parked limo. "Thanks for listening dad." The word was still new, but this time didn't leave a bitter taste in her mouth. It felt right.

Her words had a huge impact on him and he stopped and smiled. "I'm glad you told me."

Without thinking, Evelyn wrapped her arms around her father's midsection. She was careful not to squeeze too hard, and rested her chin on his shoulder. She was almost as tall as him. Surprisingly, he returned it and it felt wonderful. Closing her eyes, he smelled of musky cologne. It made her feel safe, secure. Loved.

Maybe she was getting ahead of herself, but wouldn't deny that feeling. It was there. It was growing like a yellow carnation. Not yet blooming, but in the process of germinating. She opened her eyes and finally let go. Their driver already had the door open for them and she thanked him before scuttling inside. She rested her head back and sank into her seat. Gratified.

Chuck ambled into the Penthouse late in the evening. He had a great time with Nate – wait, was it Nate? He didn't remember where he went that night; all he could remember was scotch and joints. Lots of each.

Chuck swayed a bit as he walked. He suddenly felt tired. A bed would be nice right now, Chuck thought to himself. The penthouse was quiet, and he assumed most were asleep. He stumbled past the living area and clean kitchen. Food, I want you, Chuck thought as he turned into the kitchen. He opened the refrigerator doors with difficulty and fumbled for some food. A voice disturbed his quest and he scowled.

"Chuck? Chuck!"

He turned around and his sister was right in his face. "I just want food. Leave me alone," he snarled.

She ignored him and shut the refrigerator door. "Where have you been?"

"I just went out for a little drink with Nate."

"That's obvious." Evelyn inspected his attire and gently tugged his arm. "Come on, you need to go to sleep."

"I'm not tired." Chuck roughly pulled his arm out of her grasp.

"I'm just trying to help you." Evelyn took a step away from him, burned from his touch.

"Well I don't need your help," Chuck said harshly.

Chuck turned back to the pantry and pulled out a box of crackers. His rough motions caused a few other boxes to topple over, and crashed onto the hardwood floors. All he wanted was some god damn food to eat, was that too much to ask? Chuck sat at the table and munched on the crackers. He didn't notice Evelyn cleaning up after the mess he made.

Once she finished she observed him, unsure what to do next. "You don't need to watch me. I can take care of myself."

Evelyn didn't say anything. She avoided his menacing glare piercing through her. "Why did you leave me this afternoon? I've been trying to get in touch with you all evening."

Chuck shrugged. "You and Bart were getting along just fine without me."

"You were invited to come. You just didn't show up."

Chuck munched on a couple more crackers. "Now it's my fault?"

Evelyn's eyes lit up her voice escalating. "I don't see how it could possibly be mine!"

Chuck silenced himself. He knew in his current state, if he said anymore, he'd regret it. Already he seemed to piss her off. "Sorry," he muttered.

Evelyn shook her head. "Whatever, you're drunk. You need to rest, we have school tomorrow." With that, she walked down the hall, her bedroom door shutting behind her. There was no slam, just a fierce shut.

Chuck stood, his belly full of salty crackers. His eyes drooped slightly and only two words ran through his muddled head. Bed. Now. Chuck found his bedroom door and somehow undressed into his silk pajamas. He collapsed onto his bed, exhausted. Once his eyes shut completely, he was knocked out.

School started far too early the next day, but Chuck forced himself out of bed and took a quick hot shower. Last night was a foggy memory that he couldn't quite piece together fully. He fully prepared himself for the morning and took two of his special pills. One would not suffice when sitting through all his classes, his head throbbing. Chuck dressed in his pressed St. Jude's uniform. He looked at the clock and he was already late for first period. He ate his breakfast slowly, and enjoyed the silence of the penthouse. Everyone was already at work and school.

Chuck scrolled through his messages and noticed Gossip Girl posted about admissions. He read the title and couldn't believe his eyes. He opened the message and read further.

For B it's either go Yale or go home. She's been dreaming about the school since infancy, but it seems her lifelong dreams have come to a halt. B's dream of Yale has been waitlisted. Poor B. Don't worry, all is not lost. Although you can be sure our favorite fighting bulldog won't go down easy.

Blair was waitlisted? Chuck was shocked. How could Blair, who worked her whole life for this moment be waitlisted? She worked harder than anyone he knew. It didn't sit right with him. It wasn't right.

Chuck slammed his coffee cup on the table and bolted to the elevator. Instantly, Blair messaged him to come meet her as soon as possible. He texted her back that he was on his way. As soon as he rushed to school he ran to the courtyard. His eyes darted all over the place until he found her, sitting alone at one of the stone tables. Serena and Lonely boy were in an embrace, which he paid no attention to. Blair's misery was palpable in her eyes.

He didn't even bother checking if he got accepted. His marks were nowhere near high enough for early acceptance. He assumed he'd be accepted later, but he didn't care. Chuck bristled past Serena and Dan and sat beside Blair.

"Where have you been?" She snapped.

"There was a bit of traffic; I was running late this morning."

Blair huffed, hiding her eyes from his. Chuck placed his hand over her gloved one. Blair's eyes shot up to where they had contact. Chuck was about to draw his hand away before she clasped onto it with need. "I know you got waitlisted."

She rolled her eyes. "It must be a mistake."

"You'll still get in Blair. I know it. It's just going to take a bit longer than you thought… unless we could speed it up a bit."

Blair's sad eyes light up. She snapped out of her shock of not getting accepted into Yale, now planning a way how to fix it. "It was all going smoothly until Carcrash came here." Blair took a deep breath, collecting herself. He knew what was going to happen next. He'd seen it happen all before. The fire in her eyes would return. She would stand up, go deal with Ms. Carr and make her send a letter of reference to Yale – or something of that nature. Then, Blair would wait, and order her kingdom around just like any other day. She'd then get accepted and all would be well. Blair would be on top of her kingdom once again.

He'd love to see that happen. She'd be happy. That's all he'd want for her. She deserved it.

"It's time I give someone a little reminder with a specific photo Bass." Her pools of chocolate eyes were determined and fiery – just like he knew they would be. Chuck reached for his phone in the breast of his coat pocket and sent the photo to Blair.

He smirked at her. "Let me know what's left of her."

Blair stood confidently, removing her hand from his. The warmth in his hands was gone. "With any luck, nothing will be left when I'm through with her."

She walked away with confidence although beaten, stood right back up, her head held high. This was one of the many things Chuck admired about Blair Waldorf. He watched her walk away wistful. He wished he could spend more time with her but reminded himself of their deal. They were going to wait, and he wouldn't deal with any of these weird feelings associated with Blair Waldorf. Yes, he admitted these things as feelings.

There was some excruciating pleasure in that.

After a long day of classes, the day seemed to drag on further with another afternoon rehearsal for the play. Evelyn trudged to the auditorium, tossed her bag on one of the theater seats. She attached her headset over her ears begrudgingly. She just finished her chemistry test last period and just wanted to relax a bit. Sit back and revel in the feeling of doing nothing. The pleasant thought wafted through Evelyn's mind but quickly snapped out of it.

Evelyn flicked on the button of the box attached to her uniform skirt. "Hey Rose? I couldn't see you anywhere, but wherever you are, I'm here. What's there to do?"

"Evelyn! Uh, right now Julian is getting the actors ready to run through the first act. Please check if Jenny has finally finished all the costume fittings."

"Alright. Will do." Evelyn clicked the off button and walked to the costume room. It was beside the props room.

"Jen? Please tell me you're here," Evelyn called as she opened the door.

"I'm back here!" She shouted back. Evelyn pushed through a heavy rack of clothes. Jenny was hard at work clipping and running decadent fabrics through her sewing machine.

"Wow, d-do you need any help?"

Jenny pushed a blonde lock out of her face. "I'm almost done. What's up?"

Evelyn pushed a couple racks against the walls creating a clear path to the door and an open space near the full length free standing mirror. "Rose sent me to ask if you were done fitting everyone."

"Almost. I just have to fit one more person. He should be coming now." Jenny checked her phone. Her lips pursed. "He should've been here now."

Evelyn rifted through a rack of old fashioned clothes. "You should be getting extra credit for this. These costumes are amazing."

Jenny grinned. "Thanks but I don't see that happening. No one particularly pays attention to the costume designer of the play." She shrugged her shoulders. Both of her hands gripped onto either end of a measuring tape looped around her neck. "I'm fine with it. I at least get practice out of it."

The door opened suddenly and in came a boy out of breath. He approached quickly and Evelyn immediately recognized him. Nate, her brother's best friend smiled apologetically. His cheeks were flushed from running. His smile was sincere and Evelyn thought he could easily pass for a model. From the first time she met him, the first thing she thought was that he was so… pretty. She'd never seen anyone that attractive at her old school.

It's a good thing I left, Evelyn thought just then.

"I'm so sorry I'm late Jenny. My coach stopped me on the way here and… It's a long story."

Jenny waved her hand passively, her eyes guarded. "Don't worry about it. Let's just get you fitted now."

Nate smiled and greeted Evelyn. She could feel Jenny's questioning look burn behind her head. She hadn't told Jenny she knew Nate. The conversation just never came up.

"How are things?" He asked her. Jenny told Nate to raise his arms so she could get a measurement around his torso.

Evelyn hopped up onto an open desk. "Pretty good. I'm just busy with school, and the play…" Evelyn trailed off. She didn't want to talk about her family situation which she was sure Nate was implying. The situation with her father was now looking up, but her brother was a whole other issue. When he came home last night drunker than their Uncle Travis' brother, she knew something was wrong. He wouldn't tell her though. She didn't know what she did, but today he acted like nothing ever happened when he passed her briefly in the hall.

Maybe he didn't remember what he said? He could've been to out of it and didn't mean any of it.

"How about you? Have you gotten word back from any of the colleges you applied for?"

"I did get early acceptance for Columbia."

"Really? That's amazing Nate! Congratulations!"

Nate smiled. "Thanks, it feels kind of good not to have worry anymore. At least I got accepted somewhere."

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Columbia no less! I'm sure it'll be a hardship for you having to accept," Evelyn deadpanned.

Nate chuckled. "Yeah. I'm still waiting to see if I get accepted anywhere else."

Evelyn noticed Jenny finished her measurements and waited to get into the conversation. Nate's eyes followed Evelyn's and then noticed Jenny waiting as well.

"Is there anything else I need to try on or anything?"

Jenny shook her head. "You're all set."

"Great. Thanks Jenny."

Evelyn still perched on one of the old desks shared Nate's smile. "You better get back, Julian will be waiting."

Nate made a face. "I know, it'll be thrilling having to deal with him barking orders at you-"

"I skipped rehearsal for lacrosse practice a couple weeks ago, and he gave me a lecture how I should be taking this seriously and that I need to be committed."

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Don't worry; it'll be over in a couple weeks. We'll all survive by then."

Nate sighed. "I hope so. I'll be so happy when that day comes. Anyway I should go. I'll see you guys around."

Evelyn got off the desk. "I should be going too. I should be helping too. I'll come see you in a bit Jen."

Jenny waved her goodbye to both of them, her eyes never leaving Nate's figure. Meanwhile, Nate held the door open for her. Here she thought chivalry was dead. Buried deep in its casket. Nate and Evelyn walked to the stage wings chatting. Evelyn found that Nate was really easy to talk to. He wasn't pretentious like most other students and was very friendly. From Evelyn's experience that was very rare on the Upper East Side.

"So you said you play lacrosse?" Evelyn asked.

Nate stuffed his hands in his pockets. "Yeah. I actually got into Columbia to be on the lacrosse sports team."

"Wow." It was the only word Evelyn could utter. Nate's answer just reinforced the fact that everybody here was special, or amazing at something. They were the best of the best. Evelyn couldn't help but envy them. It seemed that they really had it all sometimes. She knew it wasn't the case for her family, but still. As an outsider, it just wasn't fair.

Nate shrugged. "I think I'm just lucky."

Evelyn smiled. She didn't expect him to downplay his success so much. She appreciated it. The worst was when boys were so conceited and felt the need to brag about how 'amazing' they were. It irritated Evelyn.

"I highly doubt that. I was actually thinking of trying out for a team myself."

Nate's aqua eyes widened with surprise. "You should totally go for it. What sport do you play?"

"I play a bit of everything. But I was going to try out for the soccer team. I'm just, I'm not sure I'm good enough."

"Don't say that, you should try and see what happens."

Evelyn crossed her arms and rolled her eyes. "It's easy for you to say. You're the one accepted to Columbia for a sport."

Nate help his hands up in surrender. "Okay, okay fine. Blame the guy that's happy he got into a college. I'm just trying to be encouraging."

Evelyn tried to suppress the smile threatening to grace her lips. She was failing miserably. "Alright fine. I'll," she sighed. "try."

Nate smiled his eyes light up. She had to admit, he was attractive. All the girls at school talked about him, which normally annoyed her. But here she was, talking to him as if it were the most comfortable thing in the world – like they were old friends.

"Nate! Get on stage!"

He looked over his shoulder and saw a distressed Julian ordering everyone to their places. "You trying to get me in trouble here?"

"'Cmon Nate. You know who I'm related to," She smirked. Nate shook his head, and chuckled before setting out for the stage.

Evelyn checked in with her headset and told Rose about the fittings. Not having anything to do for awhile, Evelyn went back to visit Jenny. Eric was busy figuring out the lighting and didn't need any disruptions.

Evelyn resumed her previous position. She was startled when Jenny said to her, "I didn't realize you know Nate." Jenny almost appeared suspicious... and a bit jealous?

"Yeah, we've met before. He's nice considering what most people are like around here."

Jenny grinned wistfully. "I know."

Wait a minute, Evelyn pondered. The way Jenny was acting now, and during his fitting, almost cautious of what she said around him, unable to take her eyes away from him... did she, did they… "Do you like Nate?" Evelyn asked.

Jenny's eyes shot up to hers surprised. "um, well, I-I did."

"Are you guys – were you guys dating before?"

Jenny stopped sewing and looked up at Evelyn. Her light blue eyes were stormy. "We weren't official. We did like each other and all; it just… didn't work out."

Evelyn stood up and started pacing the room. Jenny dated Nate? She couldn't imagine how that went down with her brother Dan. Some feeling told her he wouldn't be kind to any boys that wanted to date Jenny. "Do you still like him?"

"What? No, not now. He's dating my friend Vanessa – Well, actually I should say dated."

Evelyn gave her a perplexed look. "They broke up a few weeks ago. It was on Gossip Girl."

Somehow, Evelyn missed that post. She didn't read Gossip Girl religiously, but still read some archives to see if she was ever included on the site. For the past few weeks, she'd been left alone, like an old newspaper. Yet, she was completely fine with that. Relieved, even.

Jenny resumed her sewing work and Evelyn continued to pace. She didn't believe one bit that Jenny was over Nate. Maybe, she could help both of them reunite? Evelyn smiled to herself, liking the idea. She'd start small, helping them be in situations together and let them do the rest. She was no matchmaker – her love life was proof of that – but if she just quickened the pace for Jenny and Nate they'd both be happy together. Jenny, who quickly became her closest friend outside her family, deserved it. She wanted it. Evelyn could tell.

Evident in Jenny's longing gaze, she would be doing Jenny a favor. Evelyn vowed to help her get it.

The next day, Chuck waltzed through the hallways during lunch. He spotted his favorite brunette and approached her. She was whispering fiercely to her minions, and looked over her shoulder ever so often. Obviously she and her minions were scheming. How amature.

"Waldorf," Chuck greeted. Blair turned and walked away from her minions who continued their hushed chatter in a huddle.

"Bass."

Chuck opened his mouth, about to continue their banter. Suddenly Serena appeared. Her blue eyes were conflicted, her body rigid. Chuck eyed his stepsister curiously. Serena must have done something. And whatever it was, it would be bad news for Blair.

"Blair can I talk to you about something?" Serena fidgeted on the spot.

Blair, slightly annoyed asked, "What is it S?"

"I wasn't supposed to say anything but you-you got into early admission."

Blair gaped at her. "What? How do you know that?"

"Because I declined my acceptance. You're next in line. They are going to call you in a couple of hours."

"You're the Constance student?" Blair turned and shouted to her minions, "Cancel the Nelly Yuki project now!" She turned her attention back to Serena. "S, why would you turn down Yale? And don't say for me because even I wouldn't believe you."

Chuck looked between the two best friends with confusion. Serena of all people got into Yale?

"I-I just don't think Yale is the right fit for me."

Dan Humphrey overheard this and started questioning Serena.

"You got into Yale?"

Serena avoided his surprised expression. "I wanted to tell you…"

Not interested at listening to the two of them bicker, he turned his attention back to Blair. She looked a bit confused at first; the whole day had been an emotional rollercoaster for her. Suddenly, she jumped up like a little kid her smile as bright as the sun. "I got in to Yale. I GOT INTO YALE!"

Chuck smiled, rare and genuine at Blair's happiness. It was a welcomed distraction from his problems at the moment and it felt better than waking up this morning. Chuck watched Blair Waldorf – who normally was calm and composed – let her guard down. Seemingly, he always was around when she showed her other side. But this side of Blair Waldorf he hadn't caught a glimpse since she was a small child.

Chuck longed to touch her, to share this happy moment alone with her. He did help contribute after all didn't he? Did their scheming to blackmail Rachel count for nothing? Chuck watched Blair's curls bounce as she celebrated with her minions. She turned to face him, her smile permanently etched on her face.

"Congratulations Waldorf."

"Why thank you Bass."

She was close enough that he could smell her signature scent. Close enough, that he could reach out and run his fingers through her hair, and along her porcelain skin. Her ruby red lips stretched in a blissful smile he wished he could see more often.

"Did you use the picture to its full advantage?"

Blair smiled triumphantly. "Iowa didn't know what hit her. I have her right where I want her now to ensure that I keep Yale. She may need another reminder or two, but it'll keep her quiet if she knows what's good for her."

"Spoken like a true Queen. Now that you have Yale, there's nothing that can take it away from you."

The bell rang signaling the end of lunch. Blair's minions texted their final messages before disappearing into a nearby classroom. Blair lingered in the hall and Chuck's feet were firmly planted.

"Thanks again for your help Chuck."

"You know I'll always help you Blair."

Blair bit her lip and they stood for a moment in silence. It looked like Blair wanted to say something more but decided against it. She readjusted her large tote over her shoulder.

"I'll see you later Bass."

Instantly Chuck felt her slipping away, beyond his grasp. All they had left was the Ms. Carr scheme. Now that it had been dealt with they had to remain friends until they were mature enough to handle a relationship. Right then, Chuck wanted to kick himself for suggesting it. He didn't like being just friends with Blair. He accepted the fact that he wanted more. She wanted more, he could tell. But who would concede first? Pride overtook both, and again it was back to game. Games were inescapable for them. But this time the stakes were raised. This time, he didn't want to win, because that meant she had to lose.

Confusion set in for Chuck and for the first time he wondered if maybe, just maybe, it was time to forfeit the game for once and for all.

All is well on the Upper East Side again. Blair's delayed acceptance has been finalized. Congratulations B, we knew the bulldog couldn't be beaten. Here's hoping we all will be as fortunate as you are when we get our acceptance letters.

XOXO Gossip Girl

A/N: Please review!