Bubbly
XOXO, Gossip Girl. I began watching four months ago, but it's unlikely I'll become attached to the show. That may be why I'm not inclined to critique plot deficiencies and character ticks too much. If I do watch, I mostly go with the flow.
I freely admit to being a fan of tortured, dark couples (Smallville's Luthor-Lang pairing being my personal favorite). Given that, Chuck Bass and Blair Waldorf would naturally be my pairing of choice; they have lovely depth and intuitive understanding. But, it seems I'm too emotionally drained to take them into my tortured-couple-loving-bosom right now.
Enter Nate Archibald and Serena van der Woodsen, who come at each other (and the viewer) like two playful puppies. The Nate/Serena-isms I enjoyed in "The Hurt Locket" (3.13, March 8):
"Did I tell you that he texts me every night before he goes to sleep? It's so sweet." Serena's delight in talking about Nate and being around him is adorable. Her heart seems filled with him. She is also surprisingly unfazed about tackling a friendship-turned-romance. Fortunately for her, Nate starts off on the same page. But after separate Dan/Nate-Blair/Serena "counseling" sessions, Nate reconsiders their definition of "taking things slow".
He backpeddles on their intent to go to the French Ambassador's party as their first date. Confuse me, why don't you, Nate! Did I miss something? Why does "taking things slow" mean she can't be his date to the party? The two could be done at the same time. Ultimately, the purpose of working through his insecurity and her frustration is to ensure their hearts, not just their bodies, are in the right place for this relationship. Maybe it could have been handled with more clarity and cohesiveness, but the point was made.
(screencaps from www.nateandserena.com)
"I was just afraid -- afraid that if we went too fast, things weren't going to work out. And I really, really don't want that to happen. Because I've waited -- I've waited a really long time for this." | "Me too." Just before this, Serena shuts down her Blair-inspired "Make Nate Jealous" game with manipulative drug-dealer Damien, and Nate laments to Jenny H (Damien's equally manipulative ally) he feels he's lost Serena by taking Dan's advice. By the time Nate steals Serena into the coat room, their emotional honesty with each other tumbles out in a quick avalanche. They're more physically uninhibited and expressive than verbally expressive. Maybe their history and personalities make added discussion unnecessary. I haven't figured them out yet. But, Nate's straightforward explanation clears up the misunderstanding, and they immediately resume being themselves (a few moments left me, well, speechless).
"This was the best first date ever." And maybe the best exit ever. Nate and Serena stroll out of the coat room arm-in-arm, glowing and giggling. They are in complete disarray; Serena is clad only in a coat and pumps while Nate has lost his bow-tie and his shirt is over his pants. They look intoxicated with happiness. Nate hands his ticket back to the coat check lady, "Great service!" Serena laughs, "Don't mind us." The guests in the foyer seem amused.
Then one woman looks at Serena and realizes, "Hey, she has my coat!"
Too funny. Really enjoyed that whole scene.
(screencaps from www.nateandserena.com)
Outside, Serena muses about their date and puts her pumps down on any more "slow" talk. Nate says something about it being a "good slow" (translation in Nate-Serena Speak -- "full speed ahead").
Pretty. Honest. Spontaneous. Bubbly. They make me want to break into song. Seriously! As corny as that sounds! That's never happened to me before. I like the happy effect they have on each other. And there does seem to be substance to their connection beneath their natural playfulness.
It remains unlikely I'll stick with Gossip Girl for the long haul. But, for as long as Nate and Serena are making each other smile, I'll try to catch up with them.
It starts in my toes
Makes me crinkle my nose
Wherever it goes I always know
That you make me smile
Please stay for a while now
Just take your time where ever you go
"Bubbly" -- Colbie Calliat