Hi out there! Here comes finally the next chapter. I kinda had to drag myself to finish it. Good weather and lot's of work kept me from writing, and I also somehow lost my passion on doing so. Hopefully it will change within the next days/weeks again. Looking at all my notes for the upcoming chapters, I really want this to go on. There is still so much to write down ;) If only the days had more hours - sigh.
Anyways, I'd love to thank everyone who is is following this story so far. It really means a lot to me. It shows that all the work is not for nothing, and I'm always glad to read your thoughts about it. So just keep them coming. It's really inspiring. I will take the rest of the evening off (rewatch of Melrose Place from the 90ies - yeah, flashback into my childhood/youth) and tomorrow I'll start the next chapter.
Enjoy the weekend and this chapter. Talk to you sweets soon again, and thanks once more for sticking to this story!
Nate was sitting on the couch of their penthouse. Next to him a blonde girl called Shayenne. He wasn't even sure why he had agreed to this stupid plan of Chuck, but at desperate times… what happened to set her free? To let her go and live happily her life? I'm still a coward. I don't stand to my own word. Still trying to win her back, although I told her otherwise. Chuck sat opposite him, smirking smugly. Blair walked in, wearing a stunning evening dress.
"Wow, Blair, you look amazing", Nate complimented her.
"Sure I do, Archibald. I always do, to be exact. After all, I'm Mrs. Chuck Bass", she quipped and laughed while winking at her husband.
"True words spoken, my dear", he replied, gazing her all over.
Nate rolled his eyes at the two of them. "Just do us a favor later, take a room when it's time to", he teased his friends.
"Sure we will, if it's not already taken", Blair gave back while turning her gaze to Shayenne. The young girl blushed in an instant.
"So, you're in the publishing sector too? Chuck said you're blogging or something", she tried to pull up a conversation.
Shayenne nodded her head. "Yes, I'm a fashion blogger for our university paper. I couldn't believe when my editor said that I was invited to join you on tonight's New year's party. It's such an honor."
"Of course it is. You couldn't have any better company than tonight. And going with New York's best bachelor, what could be better?", Blair replied complacently. "If I'm right informed, you're attending Columbia too?"
"Yes, I'm a sophomore. I study journalism and business administration. I hope that I can go into the publishing sector later. Blogging for our newspaper gives me already some experience. Of course it's nothing compared to Nate's achievements", she said smiling, still a little redden.
Nate gazed over to her, sending her a small smile. She was nice, that was out of the question, but she wasn't Jenny.
"Thanks, but I had a lot of help. My staff as well as my friends always had my back. I wouldn't have made it without them at my side", he stated while thinking back of the latest times.
The past few weeks definitely had been one hell of a ride. He still wasn't sure how he survived them. But he knew one thing for sure, he would end this crap year with Jenny in his arms and be with her forever. At least, he hoped for it.
"Well, still you're the only senior at Columbia who runs successfully his own business. Everyone in my classes is totally amazed by your success. They hope they can reach it one day too", Shayenne complimented him further.
"Therefore they would need a brain and know how to use it. I'm not sure if all of them can say that about themselves", Chuck mused.
Nate only rolled his eyes on his comment, knowing him all too well. Blair giggled and slapped him on the knee. "Don't be so mean, Chuck. You don't want to scare this nice lady away, or?"
Twenty minutes later their limousine pulled up before the Cain Club in Chelsea. "The Cain Club?", Nate asked surprised, "Didn't you say we'd go to this new in club? This is not new."
Blair rolled her eyes and slapped him. "Whatever. They redecorated a little. It's sort of new. No stop being a killjoy and get your smoking hot ass in there", she forced him to walk on. "Oh and by the way, there is a smoking hot girl inside that you definitely want to see. Especially in that dress", she hissed and wiggled her eyebrows.
Nate looked at her. Seeing his best female friend smile at him dirty, made him nearly laugh. "You know, its' crazy. Chuck and you are only married for a few weeks, but you are so alike, it's scary", he mocked her.
She gazed with a played hurt expression over to him. "And I thought my husband was the mean one tonight, I was so wrong", she replied sweetly.
They followed Chuck through the crowd, Shayenne right behind them. The others had already reached the club, and got their first drinks. They sat in a lounge in the back of the club where the atmosphere was a little more quite. Eric and his boyfriend Darren were standing in front of the table, slightly dancing and swinging along with the music. Serena and Dan were sitting on the couch, so were Jasper and Jenny.
Jenny was in a deep conversation with Serena when the rest of the group arrived. She didn't even hear them say hello. But Nate caught her in an instant. Blair was damn right about Jenny's dress. It was smoking hot, even beyond it. Jenny was wearing a black, shimmering satin dress which was knee long. The upper part was a corset with strings to close in the back, the front was looking like a spider net as silver threads were running over the silk in all different directions, crossing here and there. The skirt was plain and simple. She had her hair up in a bun again, revealing her wonderful neck.
Nate couldn't turn his gaze off of her, she was looking stunning. Blair boxed him in the side. "Stop drooling. Remember, you've got a date", she whispered over to him.
Serena finally noticed the arrival of their friends, so did Jenny. "Hey guys, you made it!", Serena greeted and got up to pull Blair in a tight hug.
Dan and Eric were chatting with Chuck, while Darren had turned his attention to Jasper, who gazed over at Nate.
"It's so great to see you, Blair. You look awesome in that red wine dress. Told you it's your color", Jenny greeted her friend and got up too.
Blair smiled at her. "I can only return that compliment. I so love the corset. It's amazing! Well done", she replied.
"Isn't it? I already told Jenny how much I admire it. Have you seen her entire collection yet? I went to Saks yesterday, they have it there. I nearly fainted when I saw that huge sign presenting J Humphrey Designs. Gosh, I'm so proud of you", Serena chattered in full enthusiasm.
Jenny only smiled brightly at her, not knowing what to say. It was so flattering to hear them talk about her fashion in such a positive way.
"We always knew she had it inside her", Blair stated matter of fact.
Serena's gaze flashed over to Nate, and then noticing the girl behind him. Her eyes widened shortly in surprise. "And who is that?", she questioned towards Nate.
He had listened to their conversation, focused on Jenny. He hadn't really thought about the young girl behind him. "Oh sorry, my bad. This is Shayenne, my date tonight. She is a blogger at Columbia's newspaper. These are Serena van der Woodsen and Jenny…"
"Humphrey. I know. It's such an honor to meet you. I'm mainly responsible for the fashion and trend page at our paper. Since your line came out, I so wanted to meet you. I can't believe it's happening now", Shayenne cut Nate off and talked straight to Jenny.
Nate gazed over to her, seeing the confusion in her eyes. "Uhm, yeah, sure. It's a pleasure to meet you too", Jenny replied friendly, still wondering who this girl was and why Nate brought her. "So, you're studying with Nate at Columbia?"
Shayenne shared a short look with Nate, before she turned her attention to Jenny again. "Well sort of. We're not in the same classes. I'm a sophomore, and as you know – he'll graduate soon", she explained.
Jenny only nodded slightly. A sophomore? That means she must be my age. And what a coincidence that she kind of looks like me. "Well, nice to meet you then. You want a drink?"
"Yeah, sure. Thank you."
Shayenne sat down next to Eric and introduced herself to him, Jasper and Darren. Jenny had placed a Margarita on the table in front of her, and went back to sit next to Jasper again. Nate took a seat next to Shayenne, placing his arm on the back of the sofa behind her. He let his look slide around the scenery, ending with Jenny.
She immediately turned her head in a different direction, trying to prevent that he would catch her stare at them. Nate chuckled slightly when he saw it. Who would have thought that this stupid plan really would work. Time to take it a little further. Nate leaned forward, he placed his arm on Shayenne's shoulder and pulled her slightly to his side.
He whispered into her ear: "you enjoy this night so far?"
She nodded and looked him straight in the eyes, giving him a genuine smile. "It's amazing. I never thought I would get to know all of you. I mean, I read about you all, but to sit here and talk to you. It's so crazy", she admitted shyly, blushing a bit.
Nate thought it was cute. He never thought about it before. But his friends and he were some sort of celebrities. It must be overwhelming for someone who isn't a part of their world. He smiled down at her, stroking her shoulder with his thumb.
"We're just humans, no need to be nervous", he chuckled, flashing a look over to Jenny.
The plan was working perfectly, she had narrowed her eyes and was watching them the entire time. To the dismay of Jasper as Nate could see. Her fiance was trying to catch her attention, but didn't succeed.
"You want to dance?", Shayenne asked suddenly, pulling Nate out of his thoughts about the couple in front of him.
"Sure, but I should warn you, I'm not the best dancer", he replied still smiling.
They both got up from the lounge sofa and walked over to the dance floor. The music was pumping heavily with some good R'n'B tunes, at least music they could move to.
Shayenne was in front of Nate and started to sway her hips. She moved closer to him, and placed her hands on his shoulders, causing Nate to place his on her waist. He joined her swaying, and in short time they were in sync. She was truly a nice girl and a good dancer, but he wished that he would hold a different girl now. They moved slowly around themselves, which gave Nate the opportunity to look over to the tables where they were seated.
Eric and Darren had joined the dancing folks, Dan and Serena were talking and kissing in between. Chuck and Blair were in conversation as well, but taking glances at him and Jenny once in a while. Jasper was talking to Jenny, who seemed to listen. But her gaze was to Nate's amusement fixed on Shayenne and him. The plan couldn't work any better. She was definitely jealous.
"So you think we can do that, Jenny?", Jasper asked her, waiting for her answer only to find her staring at Nate and his date. "Jenny?", he called out louder.
She snapped out of her stare and gazed over to him. "Sorry, did you say something?", she questioned quite confused and embarrassed that he caught her staring. Why is Nate distracting me so much? He said he would set me free, and obviously he moves on. So why do I bother? Quite simple, 'cos I like him. Maybe even love him and I don't want him to be with anyone else. God, I'm so selfish.
"Actually I did", Jasper caught her attention again, "I was asking if it would be ok for you if we spent half of our honeymoon in Scotland. So I could see my grams, who can't come to the wedding. But obviously you have better things to do right now. What's so special about Nate and his girl that you're staring at them like that?"
"What?", Jenny asked astonished. "I didn't watched them. I was just in thoughts."
Jasper snorted a little, not believing a single word of hers. "In thoughts? And what kind of thoughts were that? Definitely not about our wedding. Don't take me for a fool", he replied irked.
Jenny shook her head and looked at him. "I'm not taking you for a fool", she defended herself, "why would you even think that? I saw that girls dress and was only wondering if I could use that kind of material for one of my designs. You know how caught up I can get when it comes to fashion. I'm sorry that I didn't listen to you. I didn't mean too."
Jasper sighed out frustrated, and shook his head. "Why are you lying to me? Jenny, I know that you have history with Nate. Thanks to your brother the whole world knows. Maybe you guys never dated officially, but don't say you never felt something for him. So please be honest now, are you still in love with him? Is that why you watch him the entire time?"
Jenny was totally taken aback. Is it that obvious that I'm torn? Damn, that's not good. "No, I don't love him anymore. Yes, I used to do when I was a sophomore in high school, and yes we had a short encounter. But no, we never dated as he chose a friend over me. Nate always made it pretty clear that we're just friends. And I'm fine with it. Whatever there was, it's long gone. All I feel for him now is friendship. Nothing more", she tried to convince Jasper that Nate had no more a hold on her heart. And somehow she also tried to convince herself.
Jasper looked skeptical at her. "Well maybe you feel that way now, but surely he doesn't. I see how he looks at you. Not like a friend would do", he stated matter of fact.
Jenny sighed heavily. Why does he have to start this conversation now and here? "You get him all wrong. Look, Nate always looked out for me. I guess he only wants to make sure I'm doing alright. We haven't seen each other for over two years, so I guess he's just curious to see if I have changed, or so. He definitely did. Anyways, there is nothing to worry about", she said soothingly while gazing shortly over to Nate.
Only to see him dance even closer with Shayenne now. The young blonde stood with her back to Nate and was swaying her hips and butt against him, while he was holding her close with his hands on her waist. You've got to be kidding me! What a slut! Jenny was totally disgusted by that girl. Although she knew exactly she would dance the same way with him if it was her in his arms.
"I don't know. You may say that you're only friends, but it doesn't look like it. You seem jealous because Nate brought that girl here. And he… I don't like the way he looks at you. Please, could you stay away from him?", Jasper demanded from her.
Jenny's eyes widened in shock. Did he really asked her to stay away from Nate? She narrowed her eyes and looked straight at Jasper. "I'm sorry if you don't feel comfortable with Nate around, but he is a friend of mine. You can't tell me who to see and who not. That is my decision", Jenny made clear, standing her ground that she wouldn't cross Nate out of her life.
"You serious? You really chose him over me?", Jasper asked hurt.
"I'm not choosing anyone, unless you really make me too. Jasper, I love you and I want to spent my life with you. But Nate was always a very good friend of mine. He helped me in some of my darkest hours. I won't leave him behind just because you want me too. I'm truly sorry, but that won't happen", she replied strictly, defending her decision.
Jasper looked at her and then gazed over to Nate. "I don't think it will work with both of us in your life. Sooner or later you have to make a choice", he gave back disappointed that she wouldn't stand straight to him.
Jenny looked with sad eyes at him, close on crying. "I don't want to talk about this now. Not here and not now. This is a New Year's party, and we're supposed to have fun. Can we just skip this topic for now and just enjoy the night?", she questioned.
Jasper nodded slightly in agreement, but wasn't too pleased that she had skipped the decision to a later day.
Blair was sitting on Chuck's lap. They both had watched the scenery in front of them for quite a while. Nate dancing with his girl, making Jenny jealous if possible. And Jenny talking to Jasper, but prying on Nate in between. The past few minutes seemed as if Jenny and Jasper had gotten into a fight. Clearly the conversation wasn't a funny one. Blair was quite amused on how well the plan worked.
"See, I told you that they would end up fighting. Jenny hates to see Nate with Shayenne and she can't stand them together. And Jasper is not that stupid, he obviously figured by now that there is this connection between them. It's only going to be a matter of time, my love."
"I hope you're right, 'cos I can't stand Nate any longer in this state", Chuck replied.
Blair kissed him shortly on the lips. "Sometimes people need a while 'til they know what's best for them. Jenny will come round and finally realize who she wants to be with. And if not, we'll help her see it! I'm not going to watch her marry that guy", Blair made clear that this connection wasn't going to last.
Chuck smirked at her. He found it very comical that his wife was now fighting for Jenny's and Nate's happiness. "Why are you smiling like this?", Blair asked suspicious when she saw his smile. Chuck only grinned even wider, causing Blair to narrow her eyes.
"You know, you're too cute when you are so determined to get something you want. I totally love that about you", he replied and kissed the tip of her nose.
"I just want them to be happy. They are my friends, and you can't honestly think that that marriage with that British lad would last?", she questioned in disbelief, gazing at her beloved husband.
"Don't be childish, sure not. It's more than obvious that Jenny is still in love with Nate. She always was, and always will be. Only God knows why she is in such a denial. Although… I might have an idea", he mused. Looking once more straight at the young blonde that was once his stepsister. And which was the girl that he had deflowered in a time when they were both lost and broken. Something he truly would love to rewrite.
"What do you mean? Did she say something to you? 'Cos all I got was this stupid blah blah about that they should remain friends, it would be better for them, and that they would destroy each other… that girl really has issues which we need to fix", Blair said a little exasperated.
Chuck turned his gaze back to his wife, placing a hand on her cheek. Stroking her slightly, while Blair leaned into his touch. "No, she didn't say anything to me. But I assume that I'm the reason she is acting like this", he confessed his thoughts about Jenny's rejection towards Nate.
"You? Why should you be responsible for her stupid behavior?"
"Nate was the one she wanted to see then, I was the one she got", he stated, remembering that night all too clear. A short hurt expression flashed over Blair's face. Although it was already some time ago, it still pained her a little.
"Well, neither one of you planned it. It just happened. She can't make you responsible for it, and I honestly can't understand what it has to do with her rejecting Nate now. I mean, I know why she left town and ended up in London where she met that guy. But now, we're on a good page again. No reason to hold back for her", Blair said as if it was the most normal thing in the world that Jenny and she were friends now.
"No, we didn't plan it. But she might have planned it with Nate. Remember, she came to see him. She always wanted him to be her first. Something she had in common with you", Chuck smirked and wiggled his eyebrows.
Blair slapped him playfully. "I never regretted my decision. Well, maybe in the beginning, but not later on. But I guess... she did and still does."
He nodded his head in agreement. "Yeah, I think so too. Nevertheless, it seems to block her heart or so. I mean, she always wanted Nate. And he confessed his love to her, more than once by now. But she still holds back. That is quite strange for her when you think of all the things she had done to try to get him. And I know firsthand, I once even helped her."
"Even more a reason for us to help them now. And it really seems to work. Look at that."
Nate was still dancing with Shayenne, who started to flirt with him massively. He still felt bad that he was leading her on in such a way, but on the other hand it was working just fine. During their dancing he always flashed some glances towards Jenny. She was really pissed, and it seemed that she also had gotten into a fight with Jasper. He definitely looked mad. Perfect, trouble in paradise. Time to heat it up a little more.
Nate stopped dancing and gazed down at the girl in front of him, who looked up surprised over his movement. Without a further word he cupped her face with is hands and leaned in for a short kiss. If this doesn't rage her, then I don't know what.
"You want something to drink?", he asked her. She only nodded with cheeks red from dancing and blushing. "I'll get us some, you can go back to our lounge. I'll bring it."
Nate walked over to the bar. He needed a little alone time, but it wasn't given to him. "What was that please? I thought you're in to my sister?", Dan spat angrily out. Nate turned around and faced a furious Dan and an apologizing Serena behind him.
"I am. But she chose Jasper, as you may know. So I decided to respect her wish and try to move on. Not that I want to", he explained his actions. "Look Dan, I told her more than once how I feel. I even got her that bracelet. It didn't change a thing. She still wants to marry him, and whether I like it or not – I have to respect that." Well, not that I do.
Dan grunted. "You're an idiot! You know that, right? So just because she said she wants to be with him you give up. You are aware of all the things I did to become a part of Serena's life. You had it way easier, man. My sister adored you since the night you kissed her on that masquerade ball. And I don't think that that ever changed, and you know that too. Don't stop fighting for her now. Now it's your turn to be stubborn and childishly in love. I know I had my problems with you guys in the past, but now… I can see how much you love her. She showed me the bracelet. And don't think it didn't affect her. I don't want to lose her to the UK again, which could happen with Jasper as her man. He might be nice, but honestly… I don't know… I don't trust him fully. To cut things short – you have my blessings! Go for my sister, get her and mostly… make her happy!"
Nate just smiled at his friend and then pulled him in a short hug. "Thanks man. That means a lot to me."
"But dare you to break her heart again. Then I'll break your bones, even if it may be my death", Dan laughed.
Nate took the two long drinks from the barkeeper and walked back over to their table. Shayenne had sat down and was talking to Blair. He handed her one of the drinks and sat down next to her. Taking a big gulp before placing his own drink on the table. He gazed over to Jenny shortly, she was sitting stiffly across the table. Jasper right next to her, even more rigid. He smiled shortly at them and turned his attention towards his date again.
"I truly admired your wedding dress. Although the pictures in front of the precinct didn't do it any favor. I still can't believe they called you in", the young girl said to Blair.
She only smiled politely back at her, slightly nodding her head. "It was all a huge misunderstanding. Nothing serious. And yes, the dress is awesome, but you can't except anything less than that when it's a Jenny Humphrey design", she explained proudly while smiling at her former enemy.
Jenny couldn't hear what they were talking about, the music was too loud. But from their looks, it had to do with her.
"Jenny made that dress?", Shayenne exclaimed so even Jenny could hear her now. "OMG, that is so amazing. I mean, you guys were on war when she left and now she made your wedding dress. That is so great!"
Blair smiled and waved it off with a dismissive gesture. "Oh please, that's ancient history. You can't hold grudges forever, or can you?", Blair replied loud enough for Jenny to hear. Jenny gazed her straight in the eyes, not knowing what she was referring too.
"You know, Jenny and I decided to start over new. And I believe that we'll be good friends. It was stupid of me to see her as a thread or enemy. I was acting… childish, I guess. Anyways, we both grew up and matured. There is no reason to hold on to the past. So we just look forward and start new. Sometimes it's really the best thing that you can do", Blair explained to the young blonde next to her.
Now Jenny understood where Blair was coming from. She was partly talking about them, but mainly she meant Nate and Jenny. It is not that easy as you think, Blair. I wished it was!
"Well, who thought that Blair Bass would come to her senses", Nate mocked her, and placed his arm around Shayenne again. Knowing it would drive Jenny crazy. Blair glared at him with a small smile.
"Very funny. I was always at my senses, but I may have lost my way in between. It actually can happen", Blair stated. She took her glass and sipped at her cocktail. Eying Jenny's reaction to Nate. She obviously wasn't pleased. "Nate, would you be a sweetheart and get me another drink? Chuck is trying to find us a more private place, you know", she wiggled her eyebrows slightly and smiled at him smugly.
He only chuckled. "Oh, too much information Blair. I'll get you that drink. Same as before?"
"Yes, thank you dear."
Nate got up and walked over to the bar again. Wondering how his ex-girlfriend still made him run errands for her. Blair was looking after him, smiling apologetic at Shayenne. She gazed over at Jenny, who returned her gaze. Blair shrugged her head slightly in the direction of Nate. Jenny looked at her in confusion, not knowing what Blair wanted from her. The brunette rolled her eyes. She nodded once more slightly her head to address Jenny to follow Nate and talk to him. This time Jenny understood what Blair wanted, and shook her head. Signaling that she wouldn't go to talk to him. Blair just glared at her, rolling once more her eyes in annoyance. Jenny shook again her head.
"Could you please excuse me shortly, I need a small girl talk with Jenny", she said sweetly to Shayenne before she got up and walked over to where Jenny was seated.
"You mind to follow me shortly? I have something planned for Chuck and I could need your help." Jenny looked up at her.
"Why don't you ask Serena? She will definitely help you. I'm really not in the mood for this now", she replied weakly.
Blair snorted. "It only takes five minutes, probably not even. And Serena is dancing with your brother, at least it looks like it. Only God knows what they are doing there. Please Jenny", Blair begged her to follow. "I'm sure Jasper won't mind, or?"
He had listened to the short conversation, but wasn't quite interested. His attention was drawn by something else, or better someone else. Since Nate has gotten up, he didn't let him out of sight. "No, it's fine with me. Just try to be back 'til midnight. I'd like to celebrate into the new year with you."
"Perfect!", Blair exclaimed and grabbed Jenny's arm to drag her with her. They walked half through the club into a small hallway which led to the rest rooms. Blair stopped walking and turned to face Jenny.
"Blair, what are we doing here? I thought you had something planned for Chuck", Jenny asked.
"Oh, don't worry I have, but not here. What the hell are you doing?", she questioned in return.
Jenny looked at her in surprise and disbelief. "What? What do you mean?"
"What I mean is Nate. Yes, I know, you're engaged to Jasper. But do you really think that girl is good for Nate? I can see that you don't like him to be with her. Do you really just want to sit there and watch him make out with her?", Blair replied unbelieving. She had crossed her arms in front of her chest, not backing away a tiny little inch.
Jenny sighed, and rolled her eyes. "I thought we had closed this topic. There is no Nate and me. He can do whatever he wants to do, so if he wants to be with that girl – it's fine with me", she explained.
"Oh yeah, I can see how fine you're with it. Don't fool yourself. You're close on erupting. You'd love to slap that girl and tell her to stay away from him. Why can't you admit for a single second how you feel for him? Whether you don't like it or not, you still love him. At least talk to him once more. You owe him an explanation, and ' I'm engaged to Jasper ' won't do", Blair retorted.
"You can't be serious about this Blair. I already told you that I won't walk down that road again. And there is nothing more to say to Nate. We clarified everything on Christmas. So why can't you give it a rest?", Jenny claimed from her. She stood now straight and tall in front of Blair. She wouldn't give in to her, not this time and not with this matter. I made my choice. It was the right one, and Blair must accept it.
Blair gazed her over, sighing heavily. She somehow looked defeated to Jenny. "Why I can't give it a rest? 'Cos you're my friends, and I want both of you to be happy", Blair said with a weak voice. "Look, I know you both made your choices, but I don't think they were right. Nate is miserable. Yes, he tries to move one with that girl, but matter of fact is – he wants you. And you, you say that you're with Jasper. But you also feel strong for Nate. It's obvious – your reaction on Christmas, now how you tense up when he is with her. Jenny, you need to sort things out before you can marry."
Blair took a step toward her, and placed both of her hands on Jenny's shoulders. "I'm married, but I was also more than certain that Chuck is the only one I want to be with. Look me in the eyes and tell me that you are a hundred percent sure that Jasper is the one and not Nate."
Jenny broke their stare, she couldn't look Blair in the eyes any longer. Deep down inside she knew that Blair was right. But she couldn't go back, she got hurt too many times. She looked up again. "I am sure that Jasper is the right one", she answered with a strong, convincing voice.
Blair was taken aback, she didn't expect this reaction. She was so sure that Jenny would admit her feelings for Nate. She was so wrong. This would be harder than she had thought.
"All right, if you truly believe in it. I'm sorry about this, but I had to make sure", she replied to the young blonde in front of her. "I wish you all the luck in the world." Blair let go of her shoulders, and turned to walk back to find Chuck. They needed a better plan.
Jenny remained in her spot for a short time. Gazing after Blair, only to catch Nate still standing at the bar. She thought once more about Blair's words. She is right, I need to sort things out. With that thought she walked over to the bar and grabbed Nate by his arm, dragging him into an empty side room. She pushed him further into the room, and closed behind them.
"What the hell, Jenny?", he called out astonished.
She glared at him furious, her hands on her hips. "I could ask the same. Are you doing this on purpose?"
Nate had to work hard not to smile. The second she grabbed him, he knew why. But he had to play along that he didn't know and that he was trying to move on. Even though he badly wanted to kiss her. "What? I don't know what you're talking of. Mind to enlighten me?" he asked flabbergasted, even if only played.
She snorted at his comment, still looking angrily at him. "You know exactly what I'm talking off", she only responded.
"No, I honestly don't know. But as you obviously won't tell me either, I'll go back in. My date is waiting, so is Blair for her drink", he remarked and started to move forward.
Jenny had slightly tensed up when he mentioned his date. She hated this term. She stepped in his way. "You're not leaving until this is sorted out", she stated matter of fact.
He gazed at her. God, she is so damn beautiful, even when she is angry. "You're kidding? You won't even tell me what's wrong. How can we sort it out then?", he replied in a played angry tone.
"Why are you doing this?", Jenny repeated her question.
Nate shook his head. "Why am I doing what, Jenny? I honestly don't know what you want to hear from me", he responded.
Jenny remained in her place, gazing directly at him. Her narrowed eyes turned sad. "Why did you bring her here?", she questioned silently.
Nate had to swallow hard. He knew that she got jealous, but he didn't think it would hurt her this much. Seeing her so sad now, nearly broke him. He had promised himself to never hurt her again, and now he did. "Jenny,… you chose Jasper. I told you, I would let you go… it's not… it's not that I don't love you anymore. I really do. But you made your choice, and I… I try to move on." This was way harder than he thought.
She gazed up at him. Her eyes shimmering from built up tears. "With her? You are aware that she looks like a twin of mine", she answered harsh.
"What do you want me to do? Stay for the rest of my life alone, because I can't have you?", he countered livid.
Her eyes widened in shock. She hasn't really thought about what she wanted from him. Why did she even drag him in here? "Of course not… I just… I just…", she couldn't finish the sentence as she wasn't even sure what to say.
"You just what? You can't believe that I stand to my words. That I let you live your life", he said more silent.
"I just didn't think you would move on so fast", she admitted in a whisper. She turned her face to the floor, the first tears started to roll down. "I thought, I mean more to you."
Nate had to resist the urge to just grab her and kiss her right there and then senseless. He had to stick to the plan, but he could try something else. "You know that you mean more to me. I told you more than once. But you made your choice", he replied while walking up to her. He stopped only mere inches in front of her. "You don't like it to see me with her, or?"
Jenny still looked down, she couldn't face him now. "You can do whatever you want to do. I don't have the right to tell you who to be with or not", she only stated.
Nate smiled slightly. "Well, you're right. So, you won't mind if I do this with her", he said and started at the same time to slide his left index finger down her right arm, causing her to shiver slightly.
"I couldn't care less."
He nodded and grinned. "Or if do this?" He intertwined their fingers.
"Nope", she replied as calm as possible. Trying hard to hide her racing pulse.
"And if I'd do this?" He placed his right hand on her left cheek, stroking it slightly.
"I don't care. Do what you want", she answered once more.
Nate still smiled. Ok, then let's play for real now. "How about this?", he asked, leaning forward and starting to nibble at her ear lap.
Jenny was surprised by his action, but totally enjoyed it. A huge wave of excitement and joy washed over her. "Mmhhmm", she only responded.
Nate started to place soft kissed down her neck. "And (kiss) if (kiss) I (kiss) would (kiss) kiss (kiss) her (kiss) like (kiss) this (kiss)?", he continued his torture game.
"I wouldn't care", she replied with a trembling voice.
Nate couldn't stand it anymore, it was now or never. He stopped his kisses, and gazed down at her. Their hands were still intertwined. He slide his right hand into her neck, playing with the loose wisps. "You really don't care?", he asked, looking her straight in the eyes.
Jenny tried to stay calm. Her skin was burning wherever his lips had touched her. She felt like she was on fire, and she didn't want this feeling to stop. It felt more than good to her.
"You're right, I made my choice. So be with her, if that's what you want", she tried to say convincing.
He moved a little closer, leaning his forehead against hers and looking straight at her. "You know what I want", he replied huskily.
And before Jenny could reply to him, he captured her lips with his, sealing them. He moved slowly over hers, massaging them. It was a pure sensation. Shock waves ran through Jenny's body, she was barely able to hold herself up. He tasted so good. Nate let go of her hand, and placed his hand instead in her back. Running it up and down her spine. He could hear her moan. This was going the right direction.
He grabbed her a little tighter, bringing her even closer to him. His hand in her neck ran into her hair, gripping it slightly. He started to kiss her with more fierce. His tongue licked over her lips. She parted them slightly, and Nate took the invitation to deepen the kiss. Their tongues started battling for dominance. Jenny flung her arms around his neck, bringing him even closer. They both moaned in compliance. Their kissing turned deeper and hungrier. Neither one of them cared about their surroundings, unless they heard a huge mass scream
"10…9…8…7…6…5…4…3…2…1…HAPPY NEW YEAR!"
Jenny immediately broke apart. Pushing Nate away from her. Shock was written on her face.
"Jenny, what is wrong?", Nate asked concerned after seeing her facial expression.
She shook her head, tears strolling down her face. "What did I do? This is… it's so wrong. I can't… OMG, I need to find Jasper", she called out and spun around to exit the room.
"Jasper?! Are you serious? Jenny, what is with us?", Nate questioned confused over what just happened.
She turned again, and looked at him. "There is no us. We're not good for each other, we never were", she replied and moved on to find Jasper.
Nate remained frozen in his spot. Not good for each other? You can't be serious about it. It's such a bull shit. The way you just kissed me… Jenny, you love me and I will get you. No matter what it takes! I started the new year with you in my arms, and it will remain like that during this year. I won't give up on us!
Jasper was sitting in the lounge area. Looking at his surroundings, totally annoyed by the fact that Jenny was missing. To his dislike – so was Nate. Blair had come back a bit earlier, only to grab Chuck and took off with him. Jenny hadn't been with her. Dan and Serena were sitting to his left, kissing each other into the new year. So was Eric with his boyfriend Darren. Shayenne was still in her spot as well, looking quite uncomfortable within the couples and without Nate by her side. Damn it, where the hell is she? Jasper scanned the club once more, and finally he got a glimpse of her. She tried to fight her way through the people toward him. She finally managed to reach their table.
"Baby, I'm so sorry. I shortly went to the restrooms. It was so crowded there, I barely made it out. I thought I still have enough time to get back here, but I couldn't get through the crowd. I'm so, so sorry", Jenny immediately excused herself and the fact that she wasn't with him when the new year arrived. She walked up to him, sat on his lap and kissed him passionately. "Happy new year, my love!"
Jasper gazed her over. He wasn't sure if he shall believe her words or not. After all Nate was gone too, so where was he? Jasper lost the contact at the bar when a huge group of guys had gathered in front of it to play a drinking game.
"Happy new year to you too. What did Blair want from you earlier?", he started to question her. Hoping he could find out if she may have been with Nate before.
"Oh that, she has a private room for the both of them. And she asked me to help her set it up for her surprise for him. Newly weeds, you know", she slightly laughed and gazed over to Eric, who was eying her curiously. He could always read her like a book.
Jasper nodded in comprehension. He monitored her further. "And you were alone by doing so?", he continued his interview.
Jenny looked back at him, still sitting on his lap. "Yeah, who else should have been there?", she replied surprised.
"Maybe Nate joined you. He hasn't returned from the bar yet. Shayenne and I wondered where he might have end up", Jasper tried to say as casual as possible.
Jenny breathed a few times through. She tried her best to remain calm. This is a pure nightmare. Why the hell did I let him kiss me? Why did I even drag him into that room? I want to be with Jasper, so why do I even care who he is with. It shouldn't matter to me…but it does. 'Cos matter of fact is: I still love him.
"No, Nate wasn't with us. I haven't seen him since he went over to the bar. Maybe he met someone he knows and ended up chatting. You can easily lose time then", she remarked.
Serena and Dan finally finished their make out session and joined the world of the party people again.
"Oh hey, sis! Happy new year!", Dan called out to her, and pulled Jenny into a tight hug off the lap from Jasper. She nearly slipped of the couch.
"Happy new year to you too", she laughed out, while trying to hold on to him.
Serena grinned at her. "Happy new year, Jenny. I guess he had a few drinks too much. I'd better get him home", she replied apologetic.
"What? NO! I'm not drunk, maybe a little tipsy. But just a tiny little bit", Dan said offended and stood up fast. He immediately lost his balance and nearly fell on Jenny and Jasper. Jenny and Serena both started laughing, while Jenny helped to steady Dan.
"Yeah, I can see that big brother. Great role model you are", she mocked him. "You really better bring him home, so he can sleep it off. See you guys tomorrow for lunch?"
"Sure, sounds good. At your place or do we want to go somewhere?", Serena asked while placing her arm around Dan to hold him up.
"Go out. I'm not really in the mood to do all the work myself", she replied smiling.
"Got it! I call you for time and place. Have a great night! Bye Jasper! See you later E!", Serena yelled over the masses. She gave Jenny shortly a kiss on the cheek and took off with Dan in tow, who was only waving at them.
"Looks like Dan had a good time here", Eric chuckled, "I told him to stay away from the Bonsai Demon's. He wouldn't listen."
Jenny laughed and pulled Eric in a hug. "He'll survive and happy new year! I'm so glad you're in town. Missed you, bro!"
"Right back at ya! We need to talk later", he whispered in her ear, pulling back to look her in the eyes. Yeah, he knows me all too well.