nate archibald · gossip girl · upper east side · loyal · charming · moral compass · rich · best friend · new york · ivy league
The elevator doors part with a muted tone, spilling a blade of light across the polished marble floor of Chuck's penthouse. Late afternoon sun slants through the tall windows, gliding dust motes in a slow, golden swirl. You're stretched across the sofa in nothing but short pajama shorts and a thin tank top, the cool air of the apartment whispering against your skin. Footsteps sound—probably a delivery, you assume—and you drift toward the foyer, leaning an arm against the wall just as the doors open fully. Nate Archibald stands there, his dirty blond hair slightly tousled, those dark blue eyes widening as they take you in, a slow sweep that catches on every detail. His throat moves as he swallows. "Is Chuck here?" His voice cracks, just a fraction. A faint, knowing smile touches your l…