It's the Thought that Counts
Fandom- Gossip Girl
Pairing- Dan/Nate
Rating- PG
Word Count- 2531
Summary- Love works in mysterious ways
Disclaimer- I don't own this! I'm just borrowing it for awhile.
He didn't how he got here but there was no way he could turn back now, it's too late. Lost in an ocean of socialites whose faces look like ghosts of forgotten souls, even if he did want to go home, he wouldn't know his way out of this place anyway. His voice felt drain and fragile against the audible band of violins, flutes, and harps. These wealthy people voices chatting to each other was all he could hear, not even his thoughts could reach that certain volume. Dan reminded himself that he would hang around for a few minutes, make sure Mrs. Archibald sees him, say hi then leave immediately before (God forbid) Nate finds him.
As Dan search frantically for the blonde hair woman, he tried to keep his head low as possible as he guide himself through people while saying "excuse me, sorry". In his head which has went into overdrive from his nervousness, he keeps praying to any deity that can hear him, "Please don't let him be here. Please don't let him be here". Dan can't handle another awkward and weird interaction with Nate right now, especially after the argument they had a few weeks ago. If someone like Serena asked him what happen he couldn't even give her or anyone a good answer because he doesn't remember what the argument was about it. (Which shows how stupid the fight must have been).
He wouldn't even be in this situation if he didn't bump into Anne in the first place, All he wanted to do was attend Serena's party at her grandmother's summer villa that's it.
Before he could reach the door the middle aged woman who looked like any other person you would meet in that type of area walked by Dan in a fast pace. It was until she called his name that he recognize who she was.
"Daniel Humphrey? Is that you?" This was the first time Dan saw the older woman speak with such liveliness instead of the monotone and arrogance she was well known for.
Dan turn around and faced her, "H-Hello Mrs. Archibald, I didn't expect to see you here."
She took off her dark brown Christian Dior sunglasses, "I was about to say the same thing. What are you doing here?"
"Uh well I was visiting Serena."
She nodded, "Ah yes yes I see, I just talk to Lily a few minutes ago. It's good to see she's doing better, you know after the whole Bart accident."
He tucked his chin in, "Yes, it was a horrible tragedy."
Anne glance at a car passing by, "Oh! Before I forget, are you still going to the family brunch on Sunday Daniel?"
One eyebrow arched, "Brunch? What brunch?"
"Yes our brunch, we are honoring Nate's grandfather award that the Mayor of New York himself. I told Nate about it last month and he said he was going to invite you."
Last month, we all know that must have been before the argument. Nate changed his mind about that invitation when Dan told him to 'Fuck off' and called him an 'air-headed jerk'.
"You know Mrs. Archibald, I don't believe I shou-"
Anne took out a pen and a small notebook from her red leather Coach purse, "You must have forgotten, don't worry I'll give you the time, date and address of where the brunch will be held."
"You're not listening to me Mrs. Arch-"
"Here you go." She smiled and put her sunglasses back on, "I hope to see there on time and dressed properly Daniel."
Dan gave a tired sigh, his eyes lost and exhausted, "Yes ma'am."
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He lost his train of thought when everyone froze at their spot and turned towards to the large doors at the far right side of the room. The music cut off, lips were seal with an imaginary lock and you could hear the clock's hands ticking away. These were all signs that he had enter the room. With his perfect snowy white hair parted and brush back without any gel or spray to make it look heavy and greasy. 3...2...1...Let the brown nosing begin! It look like every family member came up to William van der Bilt faster than lighting, gathering around him as though he were a large fire that kept them warm from the unforgiving winter.
Part of the tradition was to say hello and other greetings along with a hugs and wide smiles. Of course Tripp was first with his wife by his side to start off the domino effect of the ass kissing, then Anne and the other people Dan didn't know or remember came after.
You had to admit, there was something unique about that old man. He was filthy rich and if he wanted to he would have his offspring and their offspring and future generations bowing to his feet. He was "The Godfather" to them, and everything he said goes. Although he presence was intimidating, there was so many features William had that remind Dan of Nate, it made the elder seem less frightening. His bright blue eyes, smile, and his laugh were exact copies of Nate's if you paid attention. As he glide across the room continuing handshakes and embraces, his calmness and buoyance was seen.
Dan was push all the way to the back of the room which was a result of trying to get closer to Anne without being conspicuous. He lost his footing and tumble backwards, falling on his rear.
"My boy, are you alright?" Dan looked up and saw William looking down at him with concern.
"Me? Ooh yea, I'm okay." The old man let his hand out and Dan grabbed it, with one pull he was able to get on his feet.
"Wait a minute." William analyze Dan's attire and curly black hair, " You must be Stan, Nathaniel has spoken so much about you."
He gave Dan a firm handshake.
"Uh yes sir. My name is actually Dan Humphrey."
"Of course of course. Are you enjoying the event Stan?"
"It's Dan sir and yes. Yes this is a really nice gathering."
Someone who emerge from the crowd came behind William and whisper something in his ear, the old man responded, "What? Does it have to be now?" The stranger shook his head, Williams rolled his eyes, "Well send in a representive...You can't be serious?! Fine, alright fine." He shooed the man away and pulled on his tie.
"Mr. Van der Bilt, is everything okay?"
"Nothing that concerns you Stan."
He tried his best to not yell at the old bastard, "I-It's Dan, and with all due respect it doesn't look like nothing."
William looked at his watch, "A meeting has come up and they say I need to be present but I can't just leave. I need to at least say a speech or something when they give me the award."
"Maybe I can help out."
"I don't know if I want to put that type of pressure on you."
"No sir, it would be my honor to help you in any way I can."
He moved his shoulders in a circular motion to gain flexibly and relief, "I guess it can't be help then. I'm sorry to ask."
"Sure. I mean anything-of course sir."
"Okay then."
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After a few minutes one of Nate's uncles came up on the stage, a silver fork was in one hand and a glass of champagne in the other. He tapped the fork on the glass, the constant noise alerted the audience and all eyes were on him suddenly.
"Hello everyone! Before we continue this celebration, we would like the man of the hour to come on stage and give us a few words about this great achievement."
A roar of applause echo as the audience waited for him to walk on stage with elegance and pride that he was known to have however to their disappointment no one appear.
"Dad?" The announcer spoke. Everyone started to look around and William could not be found. That's when Nate pulled his mother to the side, "What's going on Mom, where's grandpa?"
"I don't know Nathaniel. He has to be here somewhere, I just saw him a couple of minute ago." A sharp gasp is heard and their attention is redirected to the footsteps coming closer to the stage. Unfortunately it wasn't who they were waiting for but someone else. Or something else. To them his clothes looked like they belong to a second hand/thrift store, his hair was a rat's nest and his posture was nerve racking. Their thoughts were similar, "Why did security let this heathen into this place?"
He was the complete opposite of the honor guest; his presence wasn't firm nor confident, his eyes didn't sparkled and that ambivalent look made his face uglier. The young man took a deep breath when he faced the crowd and Nate whisper harshly, "Dan?!"
"Associates and family, it's a honor to have you all gather here to show support for William van der Bilt's award. Sadly he couldn't make it so I'm his replacement. Don't worry, I'll keep you entertain. Yea!"
*Cue in crickets*
"...Alrighty then, so I'm going speak on William's behalf about this um-award thingy here." Dan picked up the statue and held it in the air so everyone can see. What suck was Dan didn't what to say, all those eyes, those evil blue eyes piercing holes into his body like freakin' knives. And-oh God! Is that Nate in the front with Anne!?
"So I think all of us will agree William would be so happy to get this award-I know I would." He starts laughing but it slowly comes to a halt when the glares start to get worse.
"And I also know that he would start thanking those who inspire him to get to this position of his life that got him this award." He tried to remember family member names but Nate and his parents were all he could think of.
Tripp softly poke his wife with his elbow, grinning as if he knew whose name will come first. He whispered to great aunt Alicen, "I was always grandfather's favorite." A disdain expression was visible on her face.
Dan cleared his throat, "And I believe those people should be Nathaniel, Howard and Anne Archibald."
Tripp's grin disappeared, Alicen giggled, Nate and Anne looked at each other quizzically.
Unseen by the naked eye, Dan's body started to tremble. "I-It's amazing and outstanding how throughout the legal issues with Howard, this family still remain together and were there for each other no matter. Through thick and thin this family rise against the currents of fear, lost of hope, anger, and showed the world nothing can bring them down or tear them apart. I know this moment should be about this award or whatever but I think there's nothing wrong with sharing the spotlight. Those three people are a sole example of how a family should have; unconditional love, support and honesty."
Dan looked directly to Anne, "I know you and Howard despite what has happen are wonderful people. You two have to be great people if both of you raised a wonderful young man like Nate. Now I'm not talking about the obvious facts like him attending Columbia and having the position as Editor and Chief of the Spectator. I mean, he's loyal to his friends, kind hearted, unique, funny, and smart," There was a long pause, "in his own little way."
There were a few chuckles in the background.
"When his father went to prison, Nate kept his head held high and did what ever he could to be there for his mother and friends. He never whine, complain, or made himself a charity case. As the great Theodore Roosevelt said once, 'The boy who is going to make a great man must not make up his mind merely to overcome a thousand obstacles, but to win in spite of a thousand repulses and defeats'. "
Nate grabbed his mother's hand and held it tight, "Also I will admit unfortunately there were moments when me and Nate weren't that close however no matter what happens whether it's good or bad I'm grateful that I met Nate and his family. And I end this loooong speech by saying without you three and the rest of this family William could not have gotten this award without you. Thank you and enjoy your evening."
As Dan walked off the stage, he was expecting a nice moment of silence as the Archibalds and Van der Bilts try to fathom what the hell just happen or an uproar of boos erupt-but nothing like that happen. Only applause could be heard.
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"Hey Dad it's me."
"Hey sport, how did that brunch go?"
"Not as bad as expected, except I had to make a speech for Nate's grandfather."
"What? How did that happen?"
"I open my big mouth that's what happen. You see-"
"Dan!"
He turned around and saw Nate running up to him, "Um I tell you when I get home okay?"
"Alright, see you later."
He push the end button with his thumb and place his phone in his back pocket, "What's up?"
Out of breath, Nate tried to gather his words, "I-been-looking-for-you."
"Uh about that-you see-don't get mad I beseech you! Your grandfather had some meeting to go to and he needed someone to speak for him for his absence and I thought-well-I thought I will say a few words and leave but...few words became sentences and sentences became paragraphs and paragraphs became a litany-"
Nate's hands grabbed both sides of Dan's face and he smashed their lips together. For that moment, Dan never felt so relieved for being interrupted in his whole life until now. As his mind became mush, happiness seep out of his heart. It felt like it's been ages since he felt Nate's touch.
After a few minutes of making out, the boys finally separate and stare into each others' eyes.
"What you said on stage, was it true?" He asked still out of breath.
"Of course."
Nate smiled in relief with his hands remaining on Dan's face, "I love you."
"I love you too."
They kiss again and Nate moved his hand to his lover's shoulders, "You have to stay, the event hasn't even begun and this won't be fun without you."
"Um I don't know, I'm a little tired from-you know-talking so much."
"Please, plus my mom wants to see you."
"I'm pretty sure that's not a good thing."
Nate laugh and punch Dan's softly in the chest, "Dude, she was really happy with your speech- I mean everyone was happy with your speech. Except Tripp. Anyway..." His cheeks was turning red, "It will mean a lot to me if you stayed."
"I guess having one steak and lobster tail won't hurt."
Nate's eyes lit up, "That's the spirit!" He grabbed Dan's hand and pulled him towards the house. He continue to talk to Dan as they walk back to the house, "Besides, there are so many people I want you to meet!"
Pairing- Dan/Nate
Rating- PG
Word Count- 2531
Summary- Love works in mysterious ways
Disclaimer- I don't own this! I'm just borrowing it for awhile.
He didn't how he got here but there was no way he could turn back now, it's too late. Lost in an ocean of socialites whose faces look like ghosts of forgotten souls, even if he did want to go home, he wouldn't know his way out of this place anyway. His voice felt drain and fragile against the audible band of violins, flutes, and harps. These wealthy people voices chatting to each other was all he could hear, not even his thoughts could reach that certain volume. Dan reminded himself that he would hang around for a few minutes, make sure Mrs. Archibald sees him, say hi then leave immediately before (God forbid) Nate finds him.
As Dan search frantically for the blonde hair woman, he tried to keep his head low as possible as he guide himself through people while saying "excuse me, sorry". In his head which has went into overdrive from his nervousness, he keeps praying to any deity that can hear him, "Please don't let him be here. Please don't let him be here". Dan can't handle another awkward and weird interaction with Nate right now, especially after the argument they had a few weeks ago. If someone like Serena asked him what happen he couldn't even give her or anyone a good answer because he doesn't remember what the argument was about it. (Which shows how stupid the fight must have been).
He wouldn't even be in this situation if he didn't bump into Anne in the first place, All he wanted to do was attend Serena's party at her grandmother's summer villa that's it.
Before he could reach the door the middle aged woman who looked like any other person you would meet in that type of area walked by Dan in a fast pace. It was until she called his name that he recognize who she was.
"Daniel Humphrey? Is that you?" This was the first time Dan saw the older woman speak with such liveliness instead of the monotone and arrogance she was well known for.
Dan turn around and faced her, "H-Hello Mrs. Archibald, I didn't expect to see you here."
She took off her dark brown Christian Dior sunglasses, "I was about to say the same thing. What are you doing here?"
"Uh well I was visiting Serena."
She nodded, "Ah yes yes I see, I just talk to Lily a few minutes ago. It's good to see she's doing better, you know after the whole Bart accident."
He tucked his chin in, "Yes, it was a horrible tragedy."
Anne glance at a car passing by, "Oh! Before I forget, are you still going to the family brunch on Sunday Daniel?"
One eyebrow arched, "Brunch? What brunch?"
"Yes our brunch, we are honoring Nate's grandfather award that the Mayor of New York himself. I told Nate about it last month and he said he was going to invite you."
Last month, we all know that must have been before the argument. Nate changed his mind about that invitation when Dan told him to 'Fuck off' and called him an 'air-headed jerk'.
"You know Mrs. Archibald, I don't believe I shou-"
Anne took out a pen and a small notebook from her red leather Coach purse, "You must have forgotten, don't worry I'll give you the time, date and address of where the brunch will be held."
"You're not listening to me Mrs. Arch-"
"Here you go." She smiled and put her sunglasses back on, "I hope to see there on time and dressed properly Daniel."
Dan gave a tired sigh, his eyes lost and exhausted, "Yes ma'am."
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
He lost his train of thought when everyone froze at their spot and turned towards to the large doors at the far right side of the room. The music cut off, lips were seal with an imaginary lock and you could hear the clock's hands ticking away. These were all signs that he had enter the room. With his perfect snowy white hair parted and brush back without any gel or spray to make it look heavy and greasy. 3...2...1...Let the brown nosing begin! It look like every family member came up to William van der Bilt faster than lighting, gathering around him as though he were a large fire that kept them warm from the unforgiving winter.
Part of the tradition was to say hello and other greetings along with a hugs and wide smiles. Of course Tripp was first with his wife by his side to start off the domino effect of the ass kissing, then Anne and the other people Dan didn't know or remember came after.
You had to admit, there was something unique about that old man. He was filthy rich and if he wanted to he would have his offspring and their offspring and future generations bowing to his feet. He was "The Godfather" to them, and everything he said goes. Although he presence was intimidating, there was so many features William had that remind Dan of Nate, it made the elder seem less frightening. His bright blue eyes, smile, and his laugh were exact copies of Nate's if you paid attention. As he glide across the room continuing handshakes and embraces, his calmness and buoyance was seen.
Dan was push all the way to the back of the room which was a result of trying to get closer to Anne without being conspicuous. He lost his footing and tumble backwards, falling on his rear.
"My boy, are you alright?" Dan looked up and saw William looking down at him with concern.
"Me? Ooh yea, I'm okay." The old man let his hand out and Dan grabbed it, with one pull he was able to get on his feet.
"Wait a minute." William analyze Dan's attire and curly black hair, " You must be Stan, Nathaniel has spoken so much about you."
He gave Dan a firm handshake.
"Uh yes sir. My name is actually Dan Humphrey."
"Of course of course. Are you enjoying the event Stan?"
"It's Dan sir and yes. Yes this is a really nice gathering."
Someone who emerge from the crowd came behind William and whisper something in his ear, the old man responded, "What? Does it have to be now?" The stranger shook his head, Williams rolled his eyes, "Well send in a representive...You can't be serious?! Fine, alright fine." He shooed the man away and pulled on his tie.
"Mr. Van der Bilt, is everything okay?"
"Nothing that concerns you Stan."
He tried his best to not yell at the old bastard, "I-It's Dan, and with all due respect it doesn't look like nothing."
William looked at his watch, "A meeting has come up and they say I need to be present but I can't just leave. I need to at least say a speech or something when they give me the award."
"Maybe I can help out."
"I don't know if I want to put that type of pressure on you."
"No sir, it would be my honor to help you in any way I can."
He moved his shoulders in a circular motion to gain flexibly and relief, "I guess it can't be help then. I'm sorry to ask."
"Sure. I mean anything-of course sir."
"Okay then."
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
After a few minutes one of Nate's uncles came up on the stage, a silver fork was in one hand and a glass of champagne in the other. He tapped the fork on the glass, the constant noise alerted the audience and all eyes were on him suddenly.
"Hello everyone! Before we continue this celebration, we would like the man of the hour to come on stage and give us a few words about this great achievement."
A roar of applause echo as the audience waited for him to walk on stage with elegance and pride that he was known to have however to their disappointment no one appear.
"Dad?" The announcer spoke. Everyone started to look around and William could not be found. That's when Nate pulled his mother to the side, "What's going on Mom, where's grandpa?"
"I don't know Nathaniel. He has to be here somewhere, I just saw him a couple of minute ago." A sharp gasp is heard and their attention is redirected to the footsteps coming closer to the stage. Unfortunately it wasn't who they were waiting for but someone else. Or something else. To them his clothes looked like they belong to a second hand/thrift store, his hair was a rat's nest and his posture was nerve racking. Their thoughts were similar, "Why did security let this heathen into this place?"
He was the complete opposite of the honor guest; his presence wasn't firm nor confident, his eyes didn't sparkled and that ambivalent look made his face uglier. The young man took a deep breath when he faced the crowd and Nate whisper harshly, "Dan?!"
"Associates and family, it's a honor to have you all gather here to show support for William van der Bilt's award. Sadly he couldn't make it so I'm his replacement. Don't worry, I'll keep you entertain. Yea!"
*Cue in crickets*
"...Alrighty then, so I'm going speak on William's behalf about this um-award thingy here." Dan picked up the statue and held it in the air so everyone can see. What suck was Dan didn't what to say, all those eyes, those evil blue eyes piercing holes into his body like freakin' knives. And-oh God! Is that Nate in the front with Anne!?
"So I think all of us will agree William would be so happy to get this award-I know I would." He starts laughing but it slowly comes to a halt when the glares start to get worse.
"And I also know that he would start thanking those who inspire him to get to this position of his life that got him this award." He tried to remember family member names but Nate and his parents were all he could think of.
Tripp softly poke his wife with his elbow, grinning as if he knew whose name will come first. He whispered to great aunt Alicen, "I was always grandfather's favorite." A disdain expression was visible on her face.
Dan cleared his throat, "And I believe those people should be Nathaniel, Howard and Anne Archibald."
Tripp's grin disappeared, Alicen giggled, Nate and Anne looked at each other quizzically.
Unseen by the naked eye, Dan's body started to tremble. "I-It's amazing and outstanding how throughout the legal issues with Howard, this family still remain together and were there for each other no matter. Through thick and thin this family rise against the currents of fear, lost of hope, anger, and showed the world nothing can bring them down or tear them apart. I know this moment should be about this award or whatever but I think there's nothing wrong with sharing the spotlight. Those three people are a sole example of how a family should have; unconditional love, support and honesty."
Dan looked directly to Anne, "I know you and Howard despite what has happen are wonderful people. You two have to be great people if both of you raised a wonderful young man like Nate. Now I'm not talking about the obvious facts like him attending Columbia and having the position as Editor and Chief of the Spectator. I mean, he's loyal to his friends, kind hearted, unique, funny, and smart," There was a long pause, "in his own little way."
There were a few chuckles in the background.
"When his father went to prison, Nate kept his head held high and did what ever he could to be there for his mother and friends. He never whine, complain, or made himself a charity case. As the great Theodore Roosevelt said once, 'The boy who is going to make a great man must not make up his mind merely to overcome a thousand obstacles, but to win in spite of a thousand repulses and defeats'. "
Nate grabbed his mother's hand and held it tight, "Also I will admit unfortunately there were moments when me and Nate weren't that close however no matter what happens whether it's good or bad I'm grateful that I met Nate and his family. And I end this loooong speech by saying without you three and the rest of this family William could not have gotten this award without you. Thank you and enjoy your evening."
As Dan walked off the stage, he was expecting a nice moment of silence as the Archibalds and Van der Bilts try to fathom what the hell just happen or an uproar of boos erupt-but nothing like that happen. Only applause could be heard.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
"Hey Dad it's me."
"Hey sport, how did that brunch go?"
"Not as bad as expected, except I had to make a speech for Nate's grandfather."
"What? How did that happen?"
"I open my big mouth that's what happen. You see-"
"Dan!"
He turned around and saw Nate running up to him, "Um I tell you when I get home okay?"
"Alright, see you later."
He push the end button with his thumb and place his phone in his back pocket, "What's up?"
Out of breath, Nate tried to gather his words, "I-been-looking-for-you."
"Uh about that-you see-don't get mad I beseech you! Your grandfather had some meeting to go to and he needed someone to speak for him for his absence and I thought-well-I thought I will say a few words and leave but...few words became sentences and sentences became paragraphs and paragraphs became a litany-"
Nate's hands grabbed both sides of Dan's face and he smashed their lips together. For that moment, Dan never felt so relieved for being interrupted in his whole life until now. As his mind became mush, happiness seep out of his heart. It felt like it's been ages since he felt Nate's touch.
After a few minutes of making out, the boys finally separate and stare into each others' eyes.
"What you said on stage, was it true?" He asked still out of breath.
"Of course."
Nate smiled in relief with his hands remaining on Dan's face, "I love you."
"I love you too."
They kiss again and Nate moved his hand to his lover's shoulders, "You have to stay, the event hasn't even begun and this won't be fun without you."
"Um I don't know, I'm a little tired from-you know-talking so much."
"Please, plus my mom wants to see you."
"I'm pretty sure that's not a good thing."
Nate laugh and punch Dan's softly in the chest, "Dude, she was really happy with your speech- I mean everyone was happy with your speech. Except Tripp. Anyway..." His cheeks was turning red, "It will mean a lot to me if you stayed."
"I guess having one steak and lobster tail won't hurt."
Nate's eyes lit up, "That's the spirit!" He grabbed Dan's hand and pulled him towards the house. He continue to talk to Dan as they walk back to the house, "Besides, there are so many people I want you to meet!"