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There was a screen shot of a Gossip Girl article announcing Serena and Noe's return and Noe's amnesia, with a picture of them at the Ivy League Party in 1.03.

Gossip Girl: (voice over) "Gossip Girl here. Your one and only source into the scandalous lives of Manhattan's elite."

From 2.08 "Pret A Poor James", in the street, Serena and Dan were talking.

Serena sighed. "James asked me out but I said no because I wasn't sure how you would feel. But I want to say yes."

"Well, looks like James Baizen is a good guy," Dan told her.

From 2.11 "The Magnificent Archibalds", in the grocery store and VDW/Bass Apartment, Dan and James were being civil with one another.

Dan: (voice over from 2.08 Pret A Poor James) "So you have my blessing."

From 2.09 "There Might Be Blood" & 2.11 "The Magnificent Archibalds", there were flashes of Young James and Young Serena shown with the pretend proposal and pretend marriage.

Dan: (voice over from 2.08 Pret A Poor James) "He's the ex-husband. I'm just the ex-boyfriend."

From 2.11 "The Magnificent Archibalds", in James's studio, Serena and James were having a romantic date.

"It's been a long while since I've been able to be happy, but with you, I am," James told her. "And ironically enough, moving in with Blair, Thyra and Wyatt, because of this romance with Cyrus and Eleanor. We might all be adjusting, but they've been there for me. Getting used to having people do that."

From 2.10 "Bonfire of the Vanity", in Wyatt's room, Blair, Thyra, Wyatt and James were bantering and getting along on Wyatt's bed. James fell asleep. Thyra, Blair and Wyatt walked closer. Wyatt put a blanket over James to let him sleep.

Serena: (voice over from 2.11 The Magnificent Archibalds) "I think that you guys can be really close given the chance."

From 2.11 "The Magnificent Archibalds", outside the Archibald mansion in the dark, Noe and Nate stood on the steps in front of the door. Nate raised Noe's chin, kissing her passionately. Noe smiled, kissing Nate even more passionately. They continued to kiss for a moment, before pulling away.

"Noe, do you..." Nate trailed off.

"Think I'm ready for something like this again?" Noe finished. "Yeah. I think I am. I feel so much better and I have been doing a lot better and all of you noticed it, and... I want to be with you again, Nate. If you still want to be with me..."

"I do," Nate answered. "I still want to, Noe."

From 2.11 "The Magnificent Archibalds", in Bart's study, Chuck, Brooklyn and Dylan showed Eric, Zaya and Sadie to Bart's safe.

Brooklyn: (voice over from 2.11 The Magnificent Archibalds) "He has a PI on retainer."

Eric found the files in the safe labeled for Lily, Nevaeh, Serena and Eric, pulling his file out, turning away from the safe, looking at the Eric van der Woodsen dossier in his hands in shock.

Dylan: (voice over from 2.11 The Magnificent Archibalds) "Bart's men are top notch, very discreet."

Zaya looked worried. "You don't think that Bart would know that many secrets about us, do you?"

From 2.11 "The Magnificent Archibalds", in the Humphrey loft, Lily walked in, leading Eric, Noe, Zaya, Sadie and Laureen with her. "Anyone home?"

"Hey," Rufus greeted. "What are you doing here?"

Lily sighed. "I don't know. It's Thanksgiving, and I couldn't think of anywhere that felt more like home."

Eric, Noe, Zaya and Sadie walked over to Hope, Dan and Jenny.

Hope smiled, standing. "You two must be Zaya and Sadie, and that's got to be Laureen."

"Yeah," Zaya answered. "Hope Humphrey."

"Nice to finally meet you von Millers," Hope told them.

"You too, Hope," Sadie agreed.

There was bonding from Hope/Jenny to Sadie/Zaya because of fashion and imagining what their futures and Noe's could be like. Eric was teasing them, and Zaya and Sadie both said that Dan wouldn't be a famous writer in the pretend future, causing all the kids to laugh.

Laureen, Lily and Rufus smiled at their kids bantering and getting along.

Rufus looked at Laureen and Lily. "Richard and Bart?"

"Not coming," Laureen answered.

Jenny and Hope hugged.

Hope laughed. "I missed you."

Jenny laughed in return. "Oh, I missed you too."

Noe took Hope and Jenny both by the hands and led them to the kitchen so they could both help with the dinner.

From 2.11 "The Magnificent Archibalds", in the diner, Lily, Laureen, Zaya, Sadie and Eric were sitting at a table.

Eric looked between Lily, Laureen, Zaya and Sadie. "There was a lot of stuff that Bart knew about the von Millers. Like how Richard treats Zaya, Sadie and you, Aunt Laureen. He's been a monster and a prison guard to all of you for months. I know what happened at Unity." Zaya swallowed, looking down. "And it wasn't your fault, Zaya."

Laureen took a deep breath. "Richard likes to hold Sadie's heart condition over my head, and Zaya's head, to make us... 'behave' the way he thinks we should. It didn't start until after his career started to go downhill, and he took out his frustrations on us."

"That's why we left, one of the reasons," Zaya explained.

"Mom took me and Zaya away from Dad, but he still had his contacts, and he was able to make us come back," Sadie went on.

"And he has such contacts that I don't know how to get him out of our lives for good," Laureen admitted. "And we're trying to make sure that a full on battle doesn't burst out because of Sadie's heart."

In the closing, there was a screen shot of the Gossip Girl website, with a picture of Zaya and Sadie with the other girls after school when the teens picked up Sadie at the beginning of 2.11. Next to it, there was a picture of James and Serena kissing in Times Square in 2.10.

The headline read: Upper West Side royalty merging with Upper East Side 'It girls'. Elsewise, Serena and James get serious?

The caption underneath the picture read: Everyone knew that when Zaya von Miller transferred to Constance that she would become apart of the in crowd, not just because of being Serena and Noe van der Woodsen's cousin, but because she was former Queen of Unity. We knew that Queen Blair Waldorf, Princess Brooklyn Bass and Princess, Thyra, the Black Diamond, would welcome her into their clique with a high social standing after she proved her worth. And with Zaya's little sister Sadie soon to graduate middle school a year early because of her impeccable smarts, it's no surprise that they would take Sadie under their wing even though she's already ahead of the learning curve in the manipulative ways of the Upper East and West Sides as well. And it appears that they're already bonding with favorite Angel of Brooklyn, Hope Humphrey too. Let's just see how long that lasts when Zaya's secret inevitably comes to light, and if it would cause her reputation to crash and burn in Constance as it did in Unity. And it looks like Serena and James are getting hot and heavy. Guess S really is over what's-his-name? We're happy for S. She deserves a good man. And James Baizen is nice, charming, soulful, artsy. And while our favorite Upper East Side Crew seems to know his secret about why he left and why he came back, the rest of Manhattan doesn't, though it might not be as scandalous of a secret as Z's at Unity. Though scandalous or not, JB's secret might come out at any time just like Z's.

X • O ° X • O

Worlds Colliding (Gossip Girl)

X • O ° X • O

Day One

Morning

(Song:) Lady Jesus - The Asteroids Galaxy Tour

There was a montage of Manhattan during Christmas time, with Christmas lights and trees all over the city in the best places in New York, holiday cheer in the air.

Gossip Girl: (voice over) "Winter in New York. A Gossip Girl checklist for surviving the cold. Cashmere stole for ice-skating at Wollman Rink, Jacques Torres hot chocolate for window shopping the holiday displays, and the perfect date for the snowflake charity ball. And of course, dodging the ice cold battles at home, like Laureen, Zaya and Sadie von Miller."

X • O ° X • O

Von Miller Mansion - Zaya's Room

Richard threw open Zaya's curtains to let the sunlight in to wash over Zaya's face to wake her up.

Zaya groaned. "Dad, cut it out!"

Richard crossed his arms. "Well, well."

Zaya looked at Richard before covering her eyes. "Oh, my eyes."

"It's called sunlight," Richard told her. "And it's not that bright."

Zaya shook her head. "It's not the sun. It's your face. What... what the hell are you doing? I'd be a lot more comfortable if you went back to ignoring me right now."

Sadie walked in, also still wearing her pajamas since they woke her up just now. "What's going on?"

"Both of you need to go to school," Richard told them. "Just because it's almost Christmas..."

"Why do you have to be so mean?" Sadie asked.

"I'm looking out for you," Richard told them, clearly not doing it for that reason but to be a dick. "But maybe I get high from the feeling of being mean. Both of you get that from me and Laureen, who can't be here this morning because of a session with your cousin."

"You have really out-dicked yourself this time, Dad," Zaya told him. "Explain. Or no. Don't explain. I'm sure it'll just be more of the same self-serving manipulative reasons."

"Oh, just stop the histrionics," Richard told them. "Get to school."

Zaya and Sadie glared at him, but knew not to push him, while Zaya looked at Sadie worriedly, just wanting to make sure that she would be okay.

X • O ° X • O

VDW/Bass Apartment - Dylan's Room

Dylan was sleeping in bed, shirtless in boxers.

Wyatt, dressed for school, walked in with a tray loaded with breakfast. "Good morning." He got onto the bed. "Rise and shine."

Dylan woke up. "I think a little liquor is needed at a time like this."

Wyatt gave him an amused look. "You mean morning?" Dylan smirked, shrugging. Wyatt put the tray in front of him. "I got you breakfast, so eat up."

Dylan sighed, knowing what this was about. "Somebody wants to go to the crappy winter formal."

"Crappy?" Wyatt repeated. "How could you say that? We get to hang out with our friends and get all dressed up and slow dance. How can you not be excited?"

"Do we really have to go this stupid dance?" Dylan asked.

"All right, well, maybe not," Wyatt answered. "I mean, once I get you in that tux, maybe I'll decide we should stay in and..."

Wyatt whispered in Dylan's ear.

Dylan laughed. "All right, we'll go. Just, uh, promise we'll leave if it's too boring."

"Okay," Wyatt agreed. "I promise."

Dylan took a bite. "This is really good."

Wyatt smiled, nodding. "Uh-huh." Dylan held the fork, with a bit of food on it, out to Wyatt, and he took a bite. "Really good."

Wyatt kissed Dylan.

"My turn," Dylan told him.

They laughed.

X • O ° X • O

Street

Alex and Hope were kissing in the street, before Alex had to go to school, meaning he was dressed in St. Jude's uniform, and before Hope went to the atelier. They finally pulled away.

"Well, I got to get to school, and you got to get to the atelier," Alex pointed out.

"Yes, we do," Hope agreed. "Thank you for bringing me my assignments."

"Of course," Alex told her. "But I did want to ask you something."

"Anything," Hope told him. "You know that."

Alex smiled. "Yeah, I do know. I meant to ask you sooner, but with school, and my life finally getting back on track, and you busy at the atelier constantly, we've both hardly seen each other."

Hope tilted her head, looking regretful. "I know. I'm--" Alex pointed at her teasingly, so Hope stopped herself from apologizing and said this instead. "Not going to say I'm sorry."

They both laughed.

"How would you feel about coming with me to the snowflake ball?" Alex asked.

Hope beamed a smile, wrapping her arms around Alex's neck. "I would love to. Just because I've got an independent study, does not mean that I'm not still a teenager, or tied to school. I mean, I still have to do something for extra curricular credits so that I could pass the year. And if I get enough points, I could graduate this year, a whole year early, because my grades and my GPA are all caught up, and IQ is..."

"Wicked high," Alex finished.

They smiled.

"Yeah," Hope agreed. "I would just have to take SATs and pass senior level finals to graduate this year, and so would Wyatt."

"And knowing you and Wyatt, both of you could pull it off easily," Alex told her.

"And then I could see if I can get into the Fashion Institute of Technology for next year, since it does focus on art, business, design, mass communication, and technology connected to the fashion industry, including graphic design," Hope explained. "It's always been one of the best fashion colleges, and the fact that it's in New York City, and it does focus on the business and technology and the art all involved in fashion, it's the best place I could be. Carolina Herrera, Calvin Klein and Michael Kors, who didn't even complete his studies there, are alumni, and interior designer Scott Salvator, and film director Joel Schumacher, and so many actors and actresses, including Melissa McCarthy, and jewelry designers like Gessica Brooke and Carolina Bucci. And there are a few Columbia business management classes that could help with the business side of things so that way I would be able to be in control of creating my own line, manage it myself, and running it own my own."

"And you get a head start on what you want in life," Alex finished. "And it's ironic that you bring up Columbia, because you know what I learned?"

Hope smirked. "That it's always ranged from rankings 1 to 4 on architecture classes and courses? Yes, I learned that too when I was looking into courses that I could do for both Columbia and FIT."

Alex smirked. "I should've known you would find that out too. I did use to want to go to USC or something, but after we talked about what I actually loved doing, when you saw those sketches and we talked about architecture... I started to look for the best schools for that. Which ranged from Harvard to Columbia."

"And Columbia's one of the best in biomedical/chemical, which is why it's a Plan B for Wyatt if he doesn't go to Yale," Hope explained.

Alex nodded in agreement. "Mm-hmm. It might have taken me until now to figure out what I want to do with my life, but..."

"You still figured it out pretty early," Hope pointed out. "Most people don't figure it out until it's too late."

"Yeah, well, there's also people like you who always knew what they wanted and would do anything to get it," Alex replied.

Hope smiled. "Yeah. I'm glad that we could figure it all out together."

"So am I," Alex agreed. "But talking about the future and asking you to the dance is not the only reasons why I wanted to talk to you before school."

Hope raised her eyebrows. "Oh, really?"

Alex smirked. "Yeah, really. Harry and Aurora are coming to the city for Christmas and New Year's." Hope was surprised. "Yeah, that was my, Nate and Thyra's reaction too. More Vanderbilts and Diamonds in the city than usual."

Hope laughed lightly. "Oh, this is so good. I mean, Harry's coming back because his trip in Aspen is over, and after everything on Thanksgiving, do you think he's checking on you and Nate?"

"I know he is," Alex answered. "But it doesn't matter. He's coming back and that's what matters."

"And Aurora too," Hope mused. "Thyra's the only Diamond that I got to meet, so I'm excited to meet Aurora, and Harry, after everything that you, Nate and Thyra told me about, and Blair and Wyatt also talked about. Brooklyn looks up to Aurora as her idol, so I'm excited to see what you guys are always talking about. Even James, Chuck, Dylan and Serena, Zaya and Sadie. Since I know Noe doesn't remember them. But you guys are always talking about Aurora, and the other Vanderbilts, but mostly Harry because he's... whatever he is."

"Well, you will get to see it all for yourself," Alex told her. Hope frowned. "Harry wants to meet the girl that got his nephews to call him when they needed help, and since Harry and Aurora are both arriving after school, and they want to see Nate, Thyra, Noe and Brooklyn, and me, they also want to meet you. What do you say?"

Hope looked nervous. "I'm gonna try not to freak out about this because this is a huge deal, but I say yeah. Yeah, of course. I can't wait, Alex."

Alex smiled. "Neither can we, Hope." Alex and Hope kissed sweetly yet passionately. "We'll meet after school, when you might have gotten off from the atelier by then?"

"Absolutely," Hope answered. "I'll see you then."

Alex nodded. They smiled, heading their separate ways.

X • O ° X • O

St. Jude's/Constance - Courtyard

Noe, Thyra, Brooklyn, Blair and Serena were sitting at a table in the courtyard, with the mean girls in the background behind them. Noe's hair was just completely blonde now, with no pink in her hair left.

Zaya walked up to them. "Sorry I'm late. Oh, Noe, your hair. No pink anymore."

"Yeah, it all washed out," Noe agreed. "Just in time for the snowflake ball. Just blonde is better for that."

The girls smiled in agreement and amusement.

"Oh, speaking of the ball, Sadie and I got to talk to Hope about her making a sketch design for my dress," Zaya explained. "Since we aren't designers, but Hope is, but we wanted to be the ones to make it. You know, the seamstress stuff, sewing, it's very calming for Sadie and helps her manage the stress and keeps her level headed, and me in a way too, and after this morning, we need it."

"Oh, that's great, Zaya," Thyra told her. "I'm glad that Hope's helping you and Sadie like that. And we know that means your dress will be epic for tonight if Hope's the one designing." Blair, Serena, Noe and Brooklyn nodded in agreement, about being glad that Hope is helping, and about the epic dress. The girls laughed. "But what do you mean, 'after this morning'?"

"Trouble at home this morning," Zaya answered. The other girls looked concerned, like they had talked about what Eric found out about the von Millers in 2.11. "It's fine."

"Are you sure?" Noe asked. "I mean, Laureen was with me this morning because of our sessions. Zaya, if Richard did something to you or Sadie..."

"He didn't," Zaya answered. "He just woke us up in a real dick way. We're fine."

"You von Millers/Rhodes are anything but fine," Noe told her.

"Zaya, if you or Sadie need to talk, you know you always have Laureen, me, Noe, Eric and our mom," Serena told her. "You're still Rhodes, and we're still here for you."

"I know," Zaya agreed. "But I'm fine, Serena. I promise."

"Well, now you also have Blair, Thyra and Brooklyn, so..." Noe trailed off.

"Damn right you do," Brooklyn agreed. "I know what it's like to have a horrible father, Zaya. So you and Sadie can always talk to me, even if you can't talk to Laureen. I may just be a step-Rhodes, but I do want to be here for you guys."

"And we get that you don't want to talk, but would you settle for a distraction?" Blair asked. "One that could distract you from Richard's horrible antics to you, Sadie and Laureen when it's so clear you Rhodes girls deserve so much more?" Zaya nodded eagerly, desperate for the conversation to change. "Good. We're talking about the holiday event for high school students. A discussion you were late for, but given the circumstances, you get a pass, Zaya. Don't get used to it. This event is the creme da la creme from all the big private schools will be there." Zaya bit her lip. "The pictures dominate the society pages through the new year. I need a ringer."

Chuck, Dylan, Wyatt and James were walking by.

Thyra looked at the list that Blair was looking at. "Have all these guys asked you already?"

"Of course," Blair answered. "You think Angelina Jolie even considers a project without an offer on the table?" The girls laughed. "I'm strictly a pay or play dater."

Chuck smirked at Dylan, Wyatt and James, before walking toward the girls. "Just out of curiosity, who's in the lead to play 'Guy with no future'?"

"What the hell is Chuck doing?" James asked.

"Most likely just trying to get a jab at Blair," Dylan answered. "That's Chuck's thing."

Wyatt chuckled in agreement. "Yeah."

Chuck took a seat next to Zaya, across from Blair. Zaya was surprised but amused that Chuck sat next to her. Chuck smirked in response. Zaya looked at Dylan, Wyatt and James, who all shrugged.

Serena and Noe smiled at how Zaya and James were getting along with most of the crew.

Blair looked at Chuck. "What makes you think I'm not looking for something long-term?"

Chuck shrugged slightly. "Call it a hunch."

"Keith Nelson," Blair answered.

"Are you kidding?" Chuck asked. "Have you ever seen him without gum? The oral fixation alone will drive you insane."

Blair, realizing that he was right, crossed Keith Nelson's name off the list, looking at the second name. "Andy Clarke."

"He outscored your verbal on the SATs," Wyatt told her.

Blair shrugged. "I like an intelligent man. He can whisper mellifluous nothings in my ear."

Chuck shook his head. "You only think you like an intelligent man. The moment he gave you a history of the word 'mellifluous', you'd rip out his sweetly flowing tongue."

Zaya was confused but amused by the banter, looking from Noe, Brooklyn, Thyra and Serena, to Dylan, Wyatt and James, all of them remaining quiet. Noe, Brooklyn, Thyra, Serena, Dylan and Wyatt were used to Chuck and Blair's banter like this, unimpressed by it at the moment, but amused to see Zaya and James's first reaction to it, almost giving them looks as if to say 'get used to it, they do this all the time'. Chuck smirked at the group's silent communication about his banter with Blair, while Blair gave them all a look.

Blair whispered to herself as she crossed off Andy's name from the list. "Okay."

James shook his head. "I've gotta go. Lexi is supposed to be at the studio after school." He gave Serena a kiss. "I will see you there later?"

"You can count on it," Serena answered.

James smirked a bit, walking away.

"Yeah, James has the right idea about bailing," Dylan told them. "Would rather bail than be a party to Chuck and Blair's foreplay."

Chuck smirked.

Blair gave Dylan a look. "Dylan, shut up."

"Yeah, and I've got a tutoring session to go to," Wyatt added. He looked at Dylan. "I'll see you after I'm done tutoring."

"Yes, you will," Dylan agreed.

Dylan and Wyatt kissed, before heading separate ways.

Thyra stood. "And I've got to go. But I will talk to all of you very soon."

"Oh, Aurora Diamond is making a return, huh?" Zaya asked. "Noe, Hope, Sadie and I were talking about how you told them, and Nate and Alex told them, about Aurora, and Nate and Alex's Uncle Harry Vanderbilt coming back to the city today. Especially after what happened with Howard Archibald."

"Yep," Thyra answered. "I'm really excited. Zaya, like the girls said, if you, Sadie or Laureen need anything... You're still Rhodes, so of course you have our support."

Zaya nodded. "I got it, Thyra. Thank you guys."

"Of course," Brooklyn told her. "Thyra, wait up."

Brooklyn stood, walking away with Thyra.

"Yeah, I should get going too," Noe agreed. "I need to talk to Nate."

"And I need to get to next class," Zaya added.

Serena saw Dan inside. "Um, I'll call you guys later."

Blair gave all the girls a look as they were walking away, being embarrassed by their apparent need to exit, and Dylan, Wyatt and James's apparent need, leaving her alone with Chuck.

Chuck watched the others go in amusement, appreciating the fact they left them alone, sliding closer to Blair, looking at her curiously. "So, who's next?"

X • O ° X • O

Inside - Hallway

Serena walked up to Dan. "Dan, hey." She handed him a book. "Look."

Dan opened the book, pulling out a note. "Wow. 'Letters to a Young Poet'. First edition. And the original Herter Norton translation to boot. That's..."

Serena smiled. "All thanks to you. I found it at the rare book store you told me about last week. I'm giving it to James for Hanukah."

"That's very nice," Dan told her. "It means he must've accepted to your invitation to the snowflake ball."

"Unfortunately, since it's the holidays, and Hanukah/Christmas were favorites for James, Carter and Caroline growing up, I didn't want to push asking James to attend after Thanksgiving was hard enough on him after the accident," Serena admitted. "We've seen how hard it was on Thyra after she lost her parents, and I know that it had to be worse for James since he was actually in the car with Caroline after he spent so long trying to take care of her, and he almost died too..."

Dan nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I'm sorry. But James is a great guy, from what I've seen. Hope certainly thinks so, since she babbled to him at Thanksgiving in the store and she said something about how he helped her, Nate, Alex, Noe and Jenny once, but didn't say how." Serena nodded. "And to be fair, these society things are an acquired taste, trauma or not. Um... will you still be going, whether or not you ask James?"

"Absolutely," Serena answered. "There's something I love about the snowflake ball. It reminds me of 'Anna Karenina', only by Anna Wintour. But I might be flying solo."

"That's my preferred method of social travel," Dan told her. "That's good. Uh, we can--we can hang out then."

Serena realized what he meant, surprised. "Dan Humphrey, the scourge of high society, is going to the ball?"

Dan nodded. "I know. I'm still reeling. Uh, yeah, I just realized that some of the best memories in my past two years have, uh, have been at those events. So I figured, why fight it?"

Serena smiled. "Well, look who's embracing change."

Dan smiled a bit, looking a bit jealous. "Uh, I'm assuming James will be okay with two dateless friends hanging out at the ball together?"

"Depends, since I still might ask him to come with me," Serena admitted. "Another reason I haven't is because his ex, now friend, Lexi, is coming to town for the holidays. They've been hanging out. So I'm sure that James will be okay with us hanging out. I'm going to the gallery now to see his new installation. Do you want to come? I just have to stop and change first."

Dan chuckled, nodding. "Yeah, yeah, sure."

Serena laughed. They walked off.

X • O ° X • O

Another Hallway

Brooklyn was walking down the hallway, trying to catch up to Thyra. "Thyra."

Brooklyn grabbed Thyra's arm, leading her into an empty classroom.

X • O ° X • O

Classroom

Brooklyn pulled Thyra in, gently pushing her against a wall, kissing her. Thyra kissed her back.

Brooklyn smiled. "You've got a lot of beautiful curves, but your smile is absolutely my favorite."

"And if being sexy was a crime, you'd be guilty as charged," Thyra replied. "But, mm, we can't do this right now."

"We just did," Brooklyn replied.

They laughed.

"No, I mean, like Zaya said, Aurora and Harry are flying in today, and Nate, Alex and I are going to see them after school," Thyra explained. "Archibald-Vanderbilt-Diamond family reunion. I do know that they both want to see you, Noe and Hope though. And I am really hoping you say yes to coming with and getting to see Harry and Aurora when they get here, Brooklyn."

Brooklyn smiled. "Of course I'm saying yes, Thyra. At least I already know them, and I remember them, unlike Noe and Hope. It's not as big of a deal for me as it would be for them, and I do look up to Aurora, like Serena and Blair do, like James, Chuck, Dylan, Nate and Alex all looked up to Harry growing up, even Carter did back when we were friends with him and he and James got Chuck, Dylan, Nate and Alex their first lost weekends and Wyatt his first time drinking and joints and everything."

"Right," Thyra agreed.

"So, yeah, I'm going to Archibald-Diamond-Vanderbilt family reunion, plus van der Woodsen, Humphrey and Bass," Brooklyn answered. "Come on."

Brooklyn walked out of the room. Thyra leaned against the wall, smiling, following Brooklyn.

X • O ° X • O

Hallway

Students were milling around the corridors as usual.

Noe was walking while she was reading the Nevaeh van der Woodsen dossier, engrossed in it, and not paying much attention to the student crowd. A rude guy shouldered Noe as he passed, making her drop the dossier. Noe paused, looking back for a beat, before kneeling down to pick up the file, standing, seeing that people were looking at her and whispering about her like normal, having gotten used to it, trying to ignore it, though she seemed very out of it.

Nate walked up behind Noe, stopping when he saw what she was so distracted by, looking at Noe. "Come on, it's okay."

Nate smiled kindly, putting his hand on the small of Noe's back to guide her down the corridor.

Noe smiled a bit, walking with him. "Thank you. You've got to be used to helping me by now."

Nate chuckled. "That's what people from a relationship are supposed to do. And you helped me a lot too."

"Right," Noe agreed.

They chuckled.

X • O ° X • O

Outside

Nate and Noe walked outside, down the steps of the school.

Nate looked at the file in Noe's hands. "You're still going through that thing?"

"Yeah," Noe answered. "Remember how I told you I didn't even remember a lot of things from my life? This is even better than getting those memories back. It has everything. It's scary. It even has some of the most recent things I haven't been proud of." She flipped through some of it. "I mean, doctor's notes for sick days, or documentation from traveling the world. Or my records at Ostroff, before Laureen became my therapist, and exactly what happened, and the exact date that Dad took me away from here when we were little, and even a list of phobias. I didn't even remember that I was scared of cl--"

Nate, trying to calm Noe down and distract her so she didn't have an anxiety or panic attack, closed the file, taking it away, causing Noe to look at him. They looked at each other for a moment before Nate kissed Noe slowly. Noe kissed Nate back in surprise, until they pulled away.

A girl behind them saw them kissing, taking their picture to send to Gossip Girl, before walking away.

"You okay now?" Nate asked.

Noe nodded. "Mm-hmm."

"You get that out of your system yet?" Nate asked.

"I will once I've had time to process this," Noe answered. "Nate, they're even looking for my dad after what happened."

"That's good, right?" Nate asked.

"Not when he keeps jumping from place to place like he knows someone's keeping tabs on him," Noe answered. "But you were right to get my mind off it. If I keep thinking about this, I'm gonna drive myself more crazy."

Nate gave her a look. "You're not crazy."

Noe chuckled. "You know what I mean. You're right. This subject is mildly hazardous for me."

"Mildly?" Nate repeated skeptically.

Noe smirked. "Maybe."

"So, for a subject change to something a little bit better for you..." Nate trailed off. "I know I probably should've asked you sooner, but how would you feel about coming with me to the snowflake ball?"

Noe smiled excitedly. "You mean as a date? Our first official date being back together?"

"If you want it to be," Nate answered, smiling at how excited she was.

Noe kissed Nate slowly for a moment, pulling away, tilting her head. "Hell yeah I want it to be." They smiled. "I would love to. But..."

Noe reached for the file in Nate's hand on the other side of him.

Nate laughed, taking the file away, causing it to open partially to the page Noe had just been looking at. "Uh, no."

"Come on!" Noe complained cutely, though she was laughing.

Nate looked at the file, looking at her. "You're scared of clowns?"

"See?" Noe asked. "That's one of the things I didn't remember."

Nate chuckled, shaking his head. "I just wanted to make sure you were okay, even though I know you hate being asked that. Are you?"

"A lot better," Noe answered. "Long, intensive hours of therapy every day and a lot of meds will do that to you."

Nate nodded in understanding. "Well, I'm glad that Laureen's helping you get better then. More than any of your others combined."

"Yep," Noe agreed. "What about you? Are you okay?"

"Things are looking up with Alex, Mom and I able to go back home, no longer staying at Harry's mansion," Nate answered. "And Harry coming back to the country today, and Aurora too."

Noe smiled. "I know, Serena, Blair, Thyra, Brooklyn, Zaya, Chuck, Dylan, James, Wyatt and I were just talking about it. That's great, Nate, for you and Alex and Thyra."

"Yeah," Nate agreed. "Harry Vanderbilt and Aurora Diamond coming back on the same day? That's a disaster waiting to happen."

Noe laughed. "So, you, Alex and Thyra are going to see them? I mean, I know you and Alex are close to Aurora, same with Blair and Wyatt. And Thyra's close to Harry too."

"Yeah, yeah, we are," Nate answered. "Harry wanted to meet Hope when he got back, so Alex is taking Hope there too. And Harry did want to see how you were doing, especially now that we're back together."

"Harry wanted to see me, even before we got back together?" Noe asked in surprise.

Nate smiled. "Yeah. You were close with Harry once too."

"Well, I'm not sure," Noe admitted.

"Okay," Nate agreed. "No pressure. If you change your mind, or if you wanna talk later, just call me." Noe nodded. Nate gave her a reassuring smile, giving Noe back her file. Noe put the file in her bag. "Okay."

Nate and Noe went their separate ways. Noe was thinking, before taking out her phone. As Nate was walking away in the opposite direction, his phone started to ring. Nate stopped and pulled it out, seeing that Noe was calling him. He smiled, turning around. Noe turned to face him, showing him her phone, tilting her head, smiling, laughing lightly. Nate smiled as they both hung up. Noe walked up to him and they walked off together.

Gossip Girl: (voice over) "Sorry, ladies. For those of you hoping to find Nate Archibald, looks like he's already picked up his mistletoe mate. 'Tis the season for unwrapping surprises, and we all know that love and history and heartbreak are the gifts that keep on giving. With Nate back with Noe van der Woodsen, does it mean things are better for her, or does it mean that there's more heartbreak to come?"

X • O ° X • O

Humphrey Loft - Living Room

Hope was home after her shift at the atelier, but getting ready to leave, looking nervous.

Jenny was organizing Rufus's records. "Do you consider Muddy Watters blues or classic rock? I'm reorganizing Dad's record collection by genre."

Hope laughed. "Why?"

"Because I already bound all of Dan's short stories, polished your sewing machine, and cleaned the loft twice," Jenny answered.

"Did you accidentally put red bull in your cereal this morning?" Hope asked. "Because you do not have to keep doing these things to make up for what happened."

"Yeah, well, it feels like I do," Jenny replied. "And I just need to keep myself busy. Otherwise I'm gonna start thinking about my future, and then there's gonna be a Jenny Humphrey-shaped hole through the wall."

"Okay, would you stop putting so much pressure on yourself?" Hope asked.

Jenny laughed at the irony. "That's rich for you to say, Hope."

Hope nodded in agreement. "I know, I know, I'm trying to stop doing that to myself too. But you're back home and you're still a great designer. The future will work itself out."

"It's just that that's not all I'm thinking about," Jenny admitted.

Hope frowned. "What?"

Jenny realized that she almost slipped up about her crush on Alex, quickly changing the subject because she didn't want to have a different drama with Hope after they just got back to a good place. "Um, nothing I can't handle. What about you? Why are you so nervous?"

"I'm not nervous," Hope lied.

"Hope, you're always nervous, but right now it's very obvious that you are," Jenny told her.

Hope sighed, giving in. "Okay, Harry Vanderbilt and Aurora Diamond are coming back to the city today."

"Harry Vanderbilt being Nate and Alex's uncle, and Aurora Diamond being Thyra's aunt," Jenny remembered. "Nate and Alex told us, Dan and Dad about them when you had them over for dinner before you convinced them to call Harry so they could ask for help on a place to stay when the Archibald family was in trouble."

"Yeah, exactly," Hope agreed. "Nate, Alex and Thyra are gonna reunite with them, and Harry wants to meet me, and he wants to see Noe and Brooklyn, and so does Aurora, and I don't know why, but I'm like so nervous."

Jenny looked awkward because of the Alex part given her crush, but she was trying to be there for Hope. "Why are you self-conscious and nervous? You're like the coolest person I know."

Hope scoffed. "As if."

"I'm serious," Jenny told her. "Look at you." She took Hope by the arm, pulling her to a mirror to show Hope her stylish, homemade outfit. "You're like effortlessly cool."

"I'm pretty sure you're the only person that feels that way," Hope told her.

"I'm not the only person, and you know it," Jenny told her. "Zaya and Sadie von Miller even said how cool you were the first day they met us on Thanksgiving. The entire Upper East Side clique actually likes you. Ever since you made yourself that macaroni headband in kindergarten, you've been a trendsetter. You've always been better than me in designing and clothes making and I was so jealous. I guess that's what started all of this, and I'm sorry."

Hope nodded. "It's okay. We're getting back to normal, right?"

Jenny hesitated, nodding. "Right. And I'm just saying, Hope. If you can win over Blair and Wyatt Waldorf, Thyra Diamond, and Chuck, Dylan and Brooklyn Bass... not to mention have Noe van der Woodsen as a best friend, and Serena, Zaya and Sadie wanting to be your friends, Alex Archibald as a boyfriend, and Nate also being your friend, and James Baizen, then you have nothing to worry about with winning over Harry Vanderbilt and Aurora Diamond."

Hope was very reassured, smiling. "Thanks, Jenny." Jenny smiled. "See you later?"

"Yeah," Jenny answered. "I'll be here, literally, probably in the same spot."

Zaya knocked on the open front door. "Hey, Hope. Did you get..."

Zaya and Sadie walked in.

"The designs you wanted for your dress for the ball?" Hope finished. "Yes."

Hope took her sketchpad from the kitchen counter, tearing off the first page with the design for Zaya's dress, handing it to Zaya.

Zaya smiled. "This is great. Absolutely beautiful."

Sadie looked at the design. "Oh, it's so pretty, Hope."

Hope smiled. "Well, thank you, Sadie."

"Wait, you made a design for Zaya's dress?" Jenny asked.

"Yeah, but Zaya wants to make it herself," Hope answered. "Remember, Zaya and Sadie can make dresses, given the stress release of it for Sadie, and it gives them something to do together."

"Yeah, but neither of us are designers like either of you, so thanks, Hope," Zaya told her.

"No problem, Zaya," Hope told her. "I hope you and Sadie both have a good time doing this."

"Thank you for being so understanding," Sadie told her. "You know, I don't usually tell people I just met about my..." She put a hand to her chest to signal what she meant. Hope nodded in understanding and concern. "But this could really help, so thank you."

"Of course," Hope agreed. "As long as both of you have something to help you."

Hope, Zaya and Sadie smiled slightly.

"You heading out?" Zaya asked.

"Just about to," Hope answered.

Penelope walked in, seeing the girls. "Oh, hello, Zaya. Sadie. Workaholic fashion designer girl and weird gothic fashion designer girl."

"Buh-bye, sad Blair-Thyra-Brooklyn wannabe," Hope replied, walking out.

Penelope looked hurt.

Sadie laughed, impressed. "Hope doesn't hold back for a girl in Brooklyn, huh, Jenny? Both you Humphrey girls can battle it out with the best."

"Yes, we can," Jenny agreed.

Zaya smirked, impressed, looking at the sketch for her dress design. "Hmm. Good. Looks like that's something you'll both need."

Jenny walked closer. "Penelope, what are you doing here?"

"I heard that Hope was designing a dress sketch for Zaya while we were at school, but that Zaya and Sadie would make it," Penelope explained. "For the snowflake ball. And it made me realize, I want to commission a dress. Hope left, so that leaves her out for me asking, but your fashion show was impressive."

"Thanks, but snowflake ball's tomorrow, and I kinda hate you, so..." Jenny trailed off, shrugging.

Zaya smirked. Sadie chuckled.

Penelope nodded. "I know, but this is about fashion, not friendship, Little J. Hazel and Is keep biting my style, and I need something custom."

"We could use our place as a safe zone, no battle ground," Zaya offered.

Sadie looked calm, cool, yet excited. "Plus, Zaya and I could help with the dresses."

Jenny took this as a compromise, nodding. "I'm very expensive."

"I hope so," Penelope replied.

Zaya chuckled. Sadie smiled.

X • O ° X • O

Constance/St. Jude's - Outside

Laureen and Lily were on the committee to help plan the snowflake ball.

"I think we'd better have a second snowflake machine," Laureen told her. "I mean, it is called the snowflake ball. We can't have drizzle. And I thought the decorating committee agreed on poinsettias."

"Oh, they did," Lily answered. "I didn't. Uh, Casablanca lilies."

Laureen smirked. "Sneaky."

Lily chuckled. "Well, thank you for helping out. It's really been a nice change to bond with a sister like this."

"Yes, it has," Laureen agreed. "I needed the distraction. And I see that you got Rufus here to help since you just happened to mention his expertise with sound systems and his lack of volunteer hours at the last PTA meeting." Lily laughed lightly. "And I had to get out of the house, and I've been trying to get Zaya and Sadie to stay out of the house, at least when they're alone. But if they have Noe, Serena and Eric over, or friends over like Blair, Brooklyn and Thyra, or even Hope, since she's been working with Zaya and Sadie to make a design for Zaya's snowflake ball dress for Zaya and Sadie to make so they both have something to keep them distracted and calm... I think they should be fine as long as they're not alone, unlike this morning when I was in a session with Noe."

"Richard, you mean?" Lily asked. Laureen sighed. "I take it you and Richard didn't bury the hatchet yet."

Laureen nodded sarcastically. "Funny thing. I'm about to bury it in his throat." They both laughed lightly. "You and Bart?"

"Less homicidal than that," Lily answered.

Laureen shrugged. "Give it time."

"But since Thanksgiving, I've pretty much hung up the, uh, marital 'do not disturb' sign," Lily explained.

Laureen scoffed. "I wish Richard would be aware of signs like that for my sake, and Zaya and Sadie's."

"Well, you, Zaya and Sadie can keep distracting yourselves and avoiding Richard until we find a way to deal with him, but I'm gonna have to talk to Bart sooner or later, Laureen," Lily pointed out.

"Well, isn't that what New Year's resolutions are for?" Laureen asked.

Lily chuckled. "Yes, I guess so. That seems like a Rhodes family tradition. Have you decided if you're going to, uh, make it to the dance or not?"

"It's an excuse to get out of the house and distract myself, isn't it?" Laureen replied. "I'm guessing you asked Rufus if he is going."

Lily tilted her head. "Laureen, I know what you're trying to get at, and..."

"You asked him if he would come and witness the fruit of his labors," Laureen told her teasingly.

"Maybe," Lily answered. "Jury's still out."

Laureen smirked. "I knew it. And I take it you're both going to have the last dance. I think you need to tell him the truth about what the two of you went through, that he's not even aware of himself, if you ever wanted to make it work."

Lily gave her a look. "You promised you would never bring that up again."

"Yeah, but it's different now that you're actually falling back in love with Rufus, isn't it?" Laureen replied. "Or have you ever stopped loving him?" Lily didn't know the answer. "You need to tell him the truth, Lily. Maybe not today or tomorrow, but if you're going to stay in this marriage with Bart while you still love Rufus, and if you're going to try to have some sort of relationship with him, he needs to know."

Lily sighed, knowing she was right, but not wanting to admit it. "Well, if you ever to get out of this thing with Richard, I hope you do find someone that you can love truly, and not have him change and turn on you like a viper, like Richard has. You were right at Thanksgiving. He was never like this when we were teenagers. And you're sure that it's just his career failing that caused him to change like this?"

"I'm not sure," Laureen answered. "But I'm not sure what else it could be either. We have been good together for 14 years since we met and married young, and had Zaya early in our relationship. Early in our lives, since we were only 15, almost 16, and it came as a total surprise. But we loved her and raised her with love in our hearts, and then a couple years later, the same with Sadie, and we were both devastated with the news of her heart condition and what could happen. I don't know what happened months ago to make that all change, but now it's nothing but a living nightmare. And we tried to get away from it, but he just pulled us back. I don't know what to do, Lily."

Lily placed a hand on her sister's arm. "We will figure it out, Laureen."

Bart arrived in his limo behind Lily, getting out.

Laureen saw Bart, sighing. "I think that you need to figure out what to do about your own emotionless husband first." Lily turned to follow her gaze, seeing Bart. "I'll talk to you later."

Lily nodded.

Laureen gave a cold look to Bart, tilting her head, turning around, walking away.

Bart walked up to Lily, watching Laureen leave, before looking at his wife. "We need to talk."

Lily considered, before giving in. "Fine."

X • O ° X • O

Private Airport

Two private planes were landing at the same time, and Harry Vanderbilt and Aurora Diamond were stepping off either of the planes, looking at each other in skeptical amusement while they stepped down from the planes.

Harry smirked. "Aurora Diamond. Back in Manhattan. What an honor."

"The only thing you've honored is your own ego, Harry," Aurora told him. "In true Vanderbilt style."

"I thought you stopped talking to me," Harry told her.

"I'm not talking to you," Aurora told him.

"Really?" Harry asked sarcastically. "'Cause your lips are moving, and all I'm hearing is blah blah blah."

"Yeah, well, I like you better when you aren't talking either," Aurora replied. "'Cause when your lips are moving, all you know how to do is lie, lie, lie."

Harry chuckled. "How I've missed our banter, Rory."

"I told you to never call me Rory years ago, Harrison," Aurora told him.

"Yeah, well, like Harrison is too long of a name for me, which is why I actually like to go by Harry and tell everyone to call me that, even the other Vanderbilts, Aurora is too long a name too, so I'm gonna just keep calling you Rory," Harry replied.

Aurora rolled her eyes, crossing her arms, looking away. "You're infuriating."

Harry smirked smugly. "I know I am." Nate, Alex and Thyra walked up to them from getting out of their car that just arrived. "Hey, kids." Harry pointed at Aurora. "Any ideas on how to thaw the ice queen?"

"Or shutting up Harry's neverendingly moving mouth?" Aurora asked.

Nate and Alex smiled, embracing with their uncle. "Uncle Harry."

Harry smiled, patting his nephews on the back. "Hey, Alex. Nate. How are you two doing?"

"A lot better now," Alex answered.

"I'm sorry about Howie, and I tried to stay out of it with everything that went down on Thanksgiving, but if I could've been here, I would have," Harry told them.

"We know," Nate told him. "Don't sweat it, Harry."

Thyra instantly went to embrace her aunt. "Rory!"

Aurora smiled, returning the embrace. "Hey, Thyra."

"How are you?" Thyra asked. "Where do you get to go? What do you get to see?"

"Great, many places, everything, and it's amazing to do, even for business," Aurora answered. "And once you come into age for Diamond Enterprises in the States, after Bart Bass is no longer in charge when you get old enough, or until he passes, you'll get to see it all for yourself." Aurora and Thyra smiled. Aurora nodded to the Archibald brothers. "Nate. Alex. It's a wonder how you two Archibalds ended up the gentlemen you are with an uncle like Harry."

Harry nodded sarcastically, hands on his hips. "Mm. And it's a wonder how Thyra didn't turn into a stone cold bitch with an aunt like you, Rory."

"Eh, sometimes I can be the stone cold bitch," Thyra admitted.

Alex and Nate spoke together skeptically in amusement. "Sometimes?"

Thyra smirked. Harry chuckled.

Aurora smirked. "That's my girl."

"Hey, Aurora," Alex told her.

"Hi," Nate told her.

Aurora chuckled. "Hi, boys."

"Missed you, too, Harry," Thyra told him.

"You too, Thyra," Harry agreed. Nate and Alex embraced Aurora, and Thyra embraced Harry. "You guys bring Noe, Brooklyn and Hope?"

Aurora looked at Harry.

"Yeah, they're waiting in the car," Nate answered. "Noe's nervous about remeeting you two since she doesn't remember you, but she wants to get to know you both."

"And Hope's really psyched to finally get to meet you both but she's always nervous, and she rambles a lot when she's nervous, so just be warned," Alex added.

"But you both already know Brooklyn, and there's no memory loss there," Nate told them.

"So Brooklyn would just be... Brooklyn," Alex agreed.

They all laughed lightly, and Harry and Aurora nodded in understanding to the parts about Noe and Hope, both concerned about Noe.

Aurora looked more concerned, tilting her head, looking down, thinking. "Well, without further ado, let's see Noe, Hope and Brooklyn."

Thyra and Aurora linked their arms, as they walked with Harry, Nate and Alex away from the planes.

Gossip Girl: (voice over) "Watch your backs, kids. With Harry Vanderbilt and Aurora Diamond back in Manhattan, reuniting with nephews Alex and Nate Archibald, Thyra Diamond, and their lovers Noe van der Woodsen, Hope Humphrey and Brooklyn Bass, who knows what they have in store for our little island?"

X • O ° X • O

X • O ° X • O

James's Photography Studio

James was showing his installation of many pictures of Serena on the walls, to his ex Lexi.

Lexi was sort of mocking. "Aw, they're adorable. You know, I feel inspired to... shop at the Gap." Serena and Dan walked in behind James and Lexi, who didn't notice them yet. "Or, um, validate my self-image with overpriced cosmetics."

"Easy," James told her. "You don't even know Serena."

"Aw, you're defending her, that's even more adorable," Lexi told him. She pointed at a picture of Serena with a camera aimed at the camera that took her picture. "Wait a minute, you sure this one didn't just come with the frame?"

"Women have been the focal point for artists throughout history, and you know it," James told her.

Lexi nodded. "Exactly. Yeah, way to swing at a 2,000 year old pitch. And with blondie the bombshell, no less."

James gave her a look. "Stop it." He turned to see Serena and Dan. "Serena, Dan, hey." Lexi turned around, looking busted. "This is Lexi."

Serena nodded sarcastically. "The ex? I was wondering when I'd finally meet you."

Lexi had a guilty looking smile plastered on her face as she looked from the pictures of Serena, to the actual Serena.

James pressed his lips together awkwardly, scratching his head.

X • O ° X • O

Constance/St. Jude's - Outside

Lily was being cold with Bart. "I really don't appreciate your showing up unannounced at a school function. And interrupting a moment with Laureen when my sister and my nieces Zaya and Sadie clearly need help, which you know all about because of your little files, and yet you didn't saw a word about what Richard was doing to Zaya, Sadie or Laureen."

Bart nodded in acknowledgement. "I'm sorry. You're right. I should have said something. I didn't mean to step into businesses that didn't involve me. I didn't want to intrude in family matters that could have gotten worse, in the case of the von Millers/Rhodes. What Richard is doing to Laureen, Zaya and Sadie, I have no idea to help with."

"You have no idea, or you just don't care enough to help with?" Lily asked.

Bart gave her a look but didn't answer. "We need to talk."

Lily sighed. "Fine. Talk."

Bart glanced around. "It's, uh... it's been a long time since I've been a husband, Lily. And I just want you to know that I fired Andrew Tyler, that private investigator who gathered all those files. No more snooping, no more trying to control you and the kids, or family and friends of the family. It's done, and I'm sorry for everything."

Lily considered. "Thank you, but, um, I don't think that that's enough."

"Well, then tell me what is, and I'll do it," Bart told her. "I can change, Lily. You know I can. If you'll let me. I should be back from my Miami trip in time to go to the ball. So if you want to think about what I said and are willing to give me a second chance, I'd be honored to accompany you."

Lily tilted her head slightly. "I, um, I have to go. There's a few more things I have to do inside."

Bart nodded. Lily walked away.

X • O ° X • O

Private Airport

Thyra, Alex and Nate led Harry and Aurora to Noe, Hope and Brooklyn.

"All right, here we go," Nate told them.

"Harry, Aurora, you remember Noe and Brooklyn," Alex told them. "Hope, this is Harry Vanderbilt and Aurora Diamond. And Noe, you get to reknow them. And Brooklyn Bass..."

Brooklyn shook both Harry and Aurora's hands. "It's great to see you two again. Always looked up to you, Aurora."

"Yeah, I can tell, from Aurora's stone cold bitch vibe, that you, Thyra and Blair all have, Brooklyn," Harry told her. "Sometimes Zaya, Sadie, Noe and Serena too."

"Shut up, Harry," Brooklyn replied. "Yes, us girls took after Aurora because she was an icon our age growing up."

"And Wyatt, Nate, Alex, Chuck, Dylan and James all took after you and your wayward, laid back, stoner ways, so I don't want to hear it, Harry," Aurora told him. "Even Carter back when he was still friends with them."

"That is true," Harry agreed. "Wyatt, Carter, James, Nate, Alex, Chuck and Dylan all did take something from me, in different ways."

"So you can let Zaya, Sadie, Blair, Thyra, Brooklyn, Noe and Serena take something from me," Aurora told him.

Noe awkwardly shook their hands, nervous, but polite, feeling guilty. "Hi. I've heard a lot about you, Aurora. And Harry. And I'm sorry I don't remember either of you."

"That's nothing that you have to apologize for, Noe," Harry told her. "I'm sorry about everything you went through, but I'm glad that you're getting back to yourself. People are right when they call you a phoenix rising from the ashes."

Noe managed a small smile. "Thanks."

Aurora shook her hand. "Hi, Noe. I hope you're doing well, or better."

"I am, thanks," Noe answered.

Aurora looked at Hope, her smile tight as she looked at the slightly out of place girl. "Hello. Hope Humphrey. I'm Aurora."

"It is a pleasure to get to meet the girl that got Alex and Nate to call me after all their troubles started," Harry told her. "Thank you for getting them to reach out to me, Hope."

Hope smiled nervously, glad to be welcomed warmly with politeness. "You're welcome, Harry. It's really great to meet you. And you, Aurora." They shook hands. Aurora held Hope's hand for a second longer than normal hand shakes, before she let go, both keeping eye contact, while Hope smiled kindly. Aurora returned the smile a bit. Hope brushed back some of her hair, starting to ramble nervously. "You know, everyone knew you would be back. I mean, I've never met you, but it feels like I have. Thyra, Nate and Alex would always go on and on about both of you, and Blair and Wyatt too sometimes. They knew you two couldn't stay away from the Upper East Side and the crew in it. And I know you guys already know Noe and Brooklyn, since you knew them before they dated Nate and Thyra, even though Noe doesn't remember either of you, but I'm really glad that I get to meet both of you, and..."

Alex, Nate, Noe, Thyra and Brooklyn were not surprised in the least by Hope's ramble, all amused.

Aurora didn't look surprised either, looking down with a fond, reminiscent smile as if it reminded her of something, or someone.

Harry did look surprised, but not much since Nate, Alex and Thyra had already warned Harry and Aurora about this when they first saw them, looking amused, looking at Nate, Alex and Thyra. "You weren't kidding about Hope's rambles."

Nate, Alex and Thyra shook their heads in agreement. Noe and Brooklyn smiled.

Hope looked slightly embarrassed. "Oh, my God. I'm sorry. You don't want to hear all that."

"It's okay, Hope," Aurora told her. "You don't have to apologize."

"She always does, even when she has nothing to be sorry for," Alex explained. "We've all gotten used to it."

"Yeah, we've had to get used to it from the literal Angel of Brooklyn," Thyra agreed.

"You know, Thyra, I think you were the first person to call me Angel of Brooklyn," Hope told her.

"Oh, I was," Thyra answered. "I called you Angel of Brooklyn twice before it started to be a regular nickname for you on Gossip Girl. First when Brooklyn, Blair and I asked you and Dan to help with a Jenny/Asher scheme or about what you two knew about it, and then the second time when you and Dan teamed up with me, Noe, Brooklyn, Dylan, Wyatt and Blair to take down Georgina."

"And then Gossip Girl started to call Hope 'Angel of Brooklyn', so someone else must have heard you call Hope that," Alex told her.

"Someone must've," Thyra agreed. "Well, at least Gossip Girl's using a nickname I created, especially if it's for Hope."

Hope smiled. "Yeah. Thanks for that, Thyra."

Aurora looked down, tilting her head. "So that explains about where the name for Hope, as Angel of Brooklyn, comes from, from Thyra."

"Yeah, but how's the actual Brooklyn?" Harry asked.

Brooklyn wrapped an arm around Thyra. "Well, I am dating, Thyra, and Thyra's dating all of this..." She gestured over herself. "How do you think we're doing?"

They all laughed lightly.

"So, I was thinking..." Harry trailed off.

"You were thinking?" Aurora asked. "Temperature must have dropped in hell."

Hope laughed. "I actually said something like that to my brother on Thanksgiving about temperature must have dropped in hell if he's ever right about something."

The teens looked impressed, smiling.

Aurora looked slightly surprised, nodding, trying not to show much emotion.

Harry gave them a sarcastic smile. "Ha ha. What I was thinking that maybe all of us could have some lunch."

"For once, not a bad idea, Harry," Aurora told him.

"Yeah, that sounds great," Nate agreed, looking at Noe. "I mean, if you feel like you can."

Noe nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it sounds like fun. And I still like to have fun, Nate. And if it means getting to reknow Aurora and Harry, then I'm all for it."

Nate smiled. "All right, then."

Hope remembered something. "Oh, Harry, Aurora, there's this snowflake ball that everyone is going to, and you two could come with us."

"It's tomorrow, and even Lily and Laureen are going," Brooklyn explained.

"Right, I heard Zaya, Sadie and Laureen von Miller moved to the Upper East Side with Richard," Harry remarked.

"Didn't you use to be friends with Laureen?" Aurora asked.

"More like acquaintances," Harry answered.

"And Zaya and Sadie are developing more into your little crew, I'm guessing," Aurora told the kids.

Brooklyn smirked, tilting her head. "Ding ding ding."

"Yeah, but Zaya and Sadie both went through a lot, and so did Laureen," Alex explained. "But it's hopefully gonna get better, since Zaya and Sadie got all of us now."

"Yeah, and I would love it if you could come, Aurora," Thyra told her. "You and Harry, and all of us, it would be perfect."

"Why not?" Harry asked. "I could get used to seeing all the clique again."

They smiled.

"Great," Noe said.

"Let's go eat," Nate told them.

"It's going to be great," Alex told them.

Thyra smiled. "I hope so."

Noe, Nate, Harry, Alex, Hope, Aurora, Thyra and Brooklyn all walked along to get something to eat. Aurora was walking in between Thyra and Hope, and Aurora and Hope caught each other's gazes. They both smiled briefly before continuing on with the others.

Gossip Girl: (voice over) "As we've come to learn from our favorite Upper East Side Crew and their loved ones, returns home always come with a secret and a surprise to unwrap. With Aurora Diamond and Harry Vanderbilt home for the holidays, or longer, wonder what could possibly come out of their closets of skeletons, and if it would blow up the entire world of their nephews and niece Nate and Alex Archibald and Thyra Diamond, or their loved ones. Noe van der Woodsen, Hope Humphrey and Brooklyn Bass better watch their backs."

X • O ° X • O

X • O ° X • O

Cafe/Gallery

(Song:) Sexual Riot - The Metros

James and Serena were walking through the gallery to talk alone.

"I know Lexi can be a bit much," James told her.

Serena scoffed. "Blair Waldorf and Thyra Diamond are two of my best friends, and Brooklyn Bass is my stepsister. I can handle 'much'." James chuckled. "But that felt personal."

"She doesn't mean anything by it," James told her. "She thinks she's protecting me."

"Oh, great!" Serena said sarcastically. "How long is the enforcer gonna be with us?"

"Uh, she's staying with her folks through the holiday," James answered.

"So is that Christmas Eve?" Serena asked. "Or are we talking New Year's Eve?" She turned to face James. "Or--or maybe boxing day?"

James gave her an amused look. Serena crossed her arms, pouting slightly, embarrassed for how jealous she sounded.

James smirked in amusement. "Are you jealous of me and Lexi?"

"Should I be?" Serena replied.

"Trust me, you have nothing to worry about," James answered. "I have been waiting for this..." He took Serena's hands, kissing both of them. "All my life."

Serena smiled, the jealousy melting away as James pulled her closer and they kissed passionately yet sweetly.

In the cafe part, Lexi and Dan stood across the counter from each other.

"You have any Kopi Luwak back there?" Lexi asked.

"Uh, Kopi what Wak?" Dan asked.

"It's a coffee made from berries that have been passed by the Asian palm civet," Lexi told him. "It's a cat."

Dan closed his eyes in amusement. "Oh."

"I had it in Indonesia," Lexi told him. "It's delicious."

"Well, our cat lives with our grandmother in Florida," Dan explained. "My sister Jenny has allergies."

"That's a shame," Lexi told him.

Dan nodded. "Yeah, uh, we do, however, have this bag here of nondescript beans whose berries have been passed through a massive corporate infrastructure, so..."

Lexi smiled. "You're funny."

In the gallery part, James looked at Serena. "Come on. It would mean a lot to me if you gave her a chance. Please."

Serena sighed, giving in. "Okay, fine." She was also working the courage up to asking James to the snowflake ball. "But as long as we're swapping favors here, it'd really make me feel much better about you spending all this time with her if you... could escort me to the winter dance? I know that you didn't ask me because the holidays being tough since it's the first holiday season after the car crash, and Caroline, and I didn't want to assume and push, and..."

James took her hands. "Serena. It's fine. You're right about why I didn't ask. But you got yourself a deal. I think it could be good, for both of us."

They smiled, kissing once more.

Lexi and Dan walked into the gallery part from the cafe part.

"So, new plan for tonight," Lexi told them. "Dan here has agreed to give me a walking tour of Brooklyn."

Dan nodded in agreement. "Yeah, last minute."

Lexi smiled. "And I thought it might be fun for the four of us to hang out, get to know each other." James looked at Serena, who did not look pleased. Lexi realized. "I mean, unless the two of you guys want to hang out alone."

Dan looked at Serena and James curiously.

James looked from Dan and Lexi to Serena, raising his eyebrow questioningly, letting Serena know that it was up to her.

Serena thought about what she and James talked about, about giving Lexi a chance, sighing, giving in. "No, no. Sounds great, Lexi."

James smiled.

Lexi looked at Dan with a smile. Dan looked nonplussed as he glanced between Serena and James.

(Song Ends)

X • O ° X • O

Waldorf Penthouse - Living Room

Wyatt was sitting at the piano, playing.

Dylan walked in. "How was tutoring?"

Wyatt looked up, smiling. "It was good."

"Brooklyn, Noe and Hope still with Thyra, Nate and Alex, since Harry and Aurora are back?" Dylan asked.

"Yeah, they're having lunch," Wyatt answered. "Noe and Hope were so nervous because of amnesia and not having yet met Harry and Aurora, but they wanted to see Nate, Alex and Thyra's loves. Of course Brooklyn was more than okay with it."

"Right," Dylan agreed.

"You know, Hope's gearing for early graduation too, and it makes sense given everything," Wyatt pointed out.

"You two geniuses been talking about early graduation together, huh?" Dylan asked in amusement.

"Maybe," Wyatt answered. "We both know what we want already from life and we're doing anything we can to get there."

"That's good for you two," Dylan told him. "At least you and Hope know what you want. And Alex found out what he wants. Thyra is set to take reigns of Diamond Enterprises, and Brooklyn, Chuck and I are more than likely gonna be at Bass Industries. James is set on art and photography. Zaya's set on Broadway. Noe, she's so into modeling right now that it could be what she does. But Sadie, Serena, Blair, Nate? Who knows what they could do?"

Wyatt smiled. "Right." He stood, and Wyatt and Dylan shared a kiss. "At least we know that you, Hope, Alex, Thyra, Brooklyn, Chuck, James, Zaya and I are all more than prepared to take on the world with what we want to do. Fashion, Diamond and Bass business, photography and art, and Broadway. Noe's trying to figure out if modeling is something she really wants to do for a career, but she loves it either way. But even though Sadie, Serena, Blair and Nate don't know what they will do, at least we know that they're very versatile in everything they can be doing."

Dylan smirked. "Mm-hmm."

Blair walked downstairs. "I may not know what I want to do, unlike both of you, Hope, Alex, Thyra, Brooklyn, Chuck, James and Zaya, but like you said, I can do pretty much anything. And Serena and Nate could flounder for what they do, but Sadie's already a little genius."

"A little genius with a heart condition that could end her life at any time," Dylan pointed out.

"Yeah, Sadie's got to be careful with whatever career she chooses, and make sure that it's low stress so there's not much risk," Wyatt agreed.

Blair sighed in sympathy. "True."

"But Sadie's not one to be taken lightly either," Dylan told them. "All of us could end up ruling the world."

Chuck walked in. "I couldn't agree more, Dylan. This little crew that people are calling us, they're right to be on the lookouts for us."

Blair sighed. "What do you want, Bass?"

Chuck pointed at Blair. "It occurred to me today when I was having my afternoon shiatsu that I should choose your date."

"You?" Blair asked. "Why?"

"Why not?" Chuck replied. "It'll let me prove I know you better than anyone else."

Dylan smirked. "Ooh, this sounds like it has potential. Both of you know each other than anyone else, other than your siblings. And it's a good gamble for me and Wyatt here."

Wyatt realized what Dylan was suggesting, smirking. "So Chuck chooses for Blair, and Blair, you choose for Chuck. You bring a date for each other. I wager on Blair winning."

"And I bet on Chuck," Dylan added.

"And what keeps us from just weaseling out and find a way to win without caring about the game?" Blair asked.

"Well, there has to be something to keep you both honest," Wyatt pointed out. Dorota was in the foyer, listening. "And make things interesting."

"Name your stakes," Dylan told them.

Blair looked at Chuck. "If you actually like your date, I get your limo for a month."

Chuck smirked. "Fine. And if you like yours, I get Dorota."

"What?" Wyatt asked. "Dorota?"

Dorota walked in. "Yes, Mr. Wyatt?"

Wyatt, Dylan, Blair and Chuck exchanged a look.

Blair looked at Chuck. "Fine."

Chuck stroked Blair's chin, nodding in thanks to Dylan and Wyatt, walking toward Dorota. "By the way, I take my breakfast in bed."

Chuck walked toward the elevator.

Dylan and Wyatt looked at each other in amusement.

Dorota stared at Blair and Wyatt with her mouth open wide.

"What are you staring at?" Wyatt asked.

"Go polish something," Blair told her.

Dylan and Wyatt walked toward the stairs to head to Wyatt's room. Blair was thinking about the gamble.

X • O ° X • O

Von Miller Mansion - Zaya's Room

(Song:) Good Enough - Little Mix

Zaya was wearing the dress that Zaya and Sadie were making from Hope's sketch for Zaya, which clearly wasn't finished yet.

Sadie was helping her fit it. "Thanks for getting Hope to help us do this, Zaya. I really needed something to keep me calm after everything."

"Of course," Zaya agreed. "Penelope and Jenny will probably be back with Hazel and Is tomorrow so we can help them with their dresses."

"Okay," Sadie agreed. "Why is it that our house is a 'safe zone' like you said to convince Jenny to help Penelope, only when Noe, Serena or Eric are over, or Brooklyn, Blair and Thyra, or Hope when we were talking about the design, but never when we're alone? We're only safe right now because Dad's at work."

"Don't worry about it right now, Sadie," Zaya told her. "Everything will be figured out eventually. And even if Noe, Serena, Eric, Hope, Blair, Thyra and Brooklyn can't be here tomorrow, at least Jenny, Penelope, Hazel and Isabel will be, so we won't be alone, just like Mom wants."

"Right," Sadie agreed. "Are you ever going to tell me what happened at Unity?"

Zaya chuckled sarcastically. "Nice try."

"Eric knows because of Bart's files," Sadie pointed out.

"Yeah, well, you're not going anywhere near those files ever again," Zaya replied. "You don't need to know."

"Because you're worried about my heart?" Sadie asked skeptically.

"That, and because I'm worried about the way you'll look at me," Zaya answered. "Just please drop this, okay?"

Sadie sighed, nodding, looking down. "Okay. But you should know, Lisa, Lana's little sister? The one that helped Lana fight us and Thyra at the roller rink?"

"What about her?" Zaya asked.

"When I was in the school servers, I was able to hack into Lisa's middle school on the Upper West Side and delete everything she had to do so that she would have to fail her classes and repeat this semester," Sadie answered. "She tried to fight me even though she used to be my friend and she knew about the heart condition. So I did what I did because an old friend betrayed me and made you feel bad."

Zaya smiled. "I know I shouldn't be, but I'm so proud of you. And I know the other girls would be too."

Sadie smiled, continuing to help Zaya work on her dress. Zaya looked in the mirror, looking over her reflection in her unfinished dress, looking upset, flashing back to what happened at Unity.

X • O ° X • O

Flashback 1

Day - Unity High School - Hallway

Zaya walked by a boy, smiling, kissing him, making out with him, though she looked nervous and like she didn't like it. She was deep in denial about something about her, putting on a fake smile. She kept walking along, continuing her role as Queen of Unity. She smiled at passing by students who waved to her, blowing a kiss to a girl nearby as she walked along.

X • O ° X • O

Night - Old Von Miller Mansion (Upper West Side) - Zaya's Room

Zaya was sitting at her desk, trying her best to focus on the school work, her dyslexia making it very hard for her to read, though she tried her best. She was relieved when her phone went off to signal she got texts, eager for the chance to take a break, picking up her phone, looking at the texts from her boyfriend. They were text flirting, and when her boyfriend asked her to send a hot picture of her, she hesitated. The following messages assured that it was okay, that she could trust him. Zaya thought for sure that if she didn't send the pictures, she could get exposed for what she denied herself, since all the girls at school talked about doing this exact same thing for their boyfriends. Zaya hesitated for a moment longer, groaning, but eventually thought that she had to in order to keep denying the truth and keep her secret. She stood, walking toward her mirror, reaching behind her head to untie the halter top she was wearing, letting down the top of her shirt, reaching behind her back to unclasp her bra, sliding the straps off and putting the bra on her vanity dresser. She looked at her reflection for a moment, putting on a smile, hoping it looked convincing, before taking the picture.

X • O ° X • O

Flashback 2

Day - Unity High School

Zaya's boyfriend was shown showing the photo around, laughing at his accomplishment. Lana, the older girl that started a fight with Zaya, Sadie and Thyra at the roller rink in 2.10, was nearby and took his phone to look at, getting an idea, smirking, starting to send the picture through the school's web server, to send to all of the students and faculty, along with announcing Zaya's dyslexia and calling her an idiot, etc. Everyone outside Unity all saw Zaya walking outside, staring at her and laughing. Zaya was confused and nervous about the stares, not knowing why they were staring at her, and hopefully wishing that it wasn't about the gender she really liked, even though she lied to even herself about that. When Zaya's phone went off, she took it out, looking at it, seeing the hot picture of herself, realizing why everyone staring at her wasn't because of her secret, but because of the picture, and because of the announcement of her dyslexia and what people were calling her. As everyone laughed, Zaya tried her hardest not to cry, just looking out around nervously at everyone that stared and laughed, fighting back tears, looking paralyzed in place, before she bravely forced herself to start moving, one foot at a time. She walked up to Lana and her now ex-boyfriend, slapping them both in the face very hard, and without another look or even a word, she kept walking through the crowd as the crowd parted around her. Zaya walked through the gap they created without hiding, strong, brave, and very queenly, though she was devastated and humiliated as she left the school grounds.

(Song Ends)

X • O ° X • O

Now

Day - Lakeside

Serena, James, Dan and Lexi were walking along.

"You know, I--I write on these benches all the time," Dan told them. "And actually, Norman Mailer used to live in that townhouse right there. You can't imagine how many times I thought about knocking on his door."

"Why didn't you?" Lexi asked.

"Uh, common courtesy?" James suggested sarcastically.

Serena smiled at James.

Lexi rolled her eyes. "Okay, it's a door, but... whatever."

Dan sighed. "No, she--she--she's right. I--I don't know why I'm always so worried about what people might think of me. It certainly hasn't paid off."

"I think worrying about what other people might think of you is one of the only things you have in common with Hope," Serena told him in amusement.

"Oh, Hope takes that to a whole new level," Dan agreed. Lexi frowned, not knowing who Hope was. "My other sister, other than Jenny, who I already told you about."

Lexi nodded in understanding.

"And here I thought the Y chromosome was incapable of change," Serena told them, nudging both Dan and James on either side of her. "Look at you two branching out. James said yes to my invitation to the snowflake ball, even after everything that happened."

Dan nodded. "Oh, that--that's great, James."

"Yeah, I'm trying to... get back out there I guess," James admitted. "Can't hide forever, right?"

"No, you can't," Serena answered.

Dan tilted his head. "I mean, you could try."

Serena hit Dan on the shoulder. James smirked.

"Wait, I'm sorry, pause," Lexi told them. "Snowflake ball?"

"Yeah," James answered. "Yeah, it's this, uh, this school charity dance that Serena, Dan and I have. With a lot of our friends. Or, well, Serena and my friends, since none of the crew like Dan, but they all like Hope."

Dan nodded sarcastically.

Lexi looked at Dan. "And you're going as well?"

"Yeah," Dan answered.

"And what?" Lexi asked. "I'm here to test drive the Norman Mailer anecdote for your actual date tomorrow night at the ball?"

Serena and James both knew what Lexi was doing, looking awkwardly amused, exchanging a look.

"No," Dan answered. "Uh, no. I don't have a date, actually." Lexi looked slyly to the side. James gave Dan a look, silently telling him that Lexi was trying to get Dan to ask her out. Dan realized. "Oh! Oh, oh!" He looked at Lexi. "Uh, you know what? I just had the craziest idea." He pointed between the four of them. "Why don't the four of us go together? That is, if you would be my date."

James gave Dan another look, shaking his head, muttering under his breath. "Idiot."

Serena was brought up short, looking at James. James shook his head.

Lexi looked at Dan. "Well, it depends. That little speech you just gave..."

Lexi gestured to the townhouse they were next to.

"Well, he doesn't live there anymore," Dan told her.

"Not really the point, is it?" Lexi asked, taking Dan by the hand.

"He--he--the man's dead," Dan told her.

Lexi led Dan to the townhouse. "Come now. Ring the doorbell."

Serena and James watched them go.

James scratched his chin, looking at Serena. "You okay with her coming tomorrow?"

"Well, yeah," Serena answered. "It's a little 'When Harry Met Crazy'. But as long as you're okay, and Dan's fine with it."

"Well, I'm okay," James answered. "And I'm guessing Dan will end up being more than fine with it."

"Meaning?" Serena asked.

"Lexi likes to sleep with guys on the first date," James answered. Serena looked surprise. "She claims it's a political statement against male-dominated sexual hypocrisy. Or something."

"Well, can't she just vote?" Serena asked.

James smiled. "In her defense, she--she--she dates very few guys. But once there's one in her sights, that's pretty much it." They looked toward where Lexi and Dan were smiling and laughing. "You still okay?"

Serena smiled. "Yeah."

James chuckled. "Whatever."

Serena laughed. "Yeah, whatever."

X • O ° X • O

VDW/Bass Apartment - Living Room

Chuck and Dylan were sitting down and having drinks.

Brooklyn stepped off the elevator.

"How was lunch with Harry Vanderbilt and Aurora Diamond back in town, Brooklyn?" Chuck asked. "I take it Nate, Alex and Thyra were thrilled given the Archibalds and the black Diamond got their aunt and uncle, and Noe and Hope were a nervous wreck given the circumstances."

Brooklyn smoothly removed her jacket. "Kind of. But it was a pretty good reunion/introduction and lunch. Aurora seemed kind of off though."

Bart walked through the living room with his jacket and suitcase.

"Taking off?" Dylan asked.

"Morning meeting in Miami," Bart explained. "I should be back tomorrow."

"Sure that's wise?" Dylan asked. "Seems to me the old marriage thermostat is headed south of late."

Bart gave all three of his children a cold look. "And whose fault is that? Thanksgiving was a disaster because of those files. You think I don't know who had the combination to that safe?" Brooklyn, Chuck and Dylan didn't answer, looking busted, guilty. Bart sighed. "Every time I think we're making progress... you three show your true colors."

Bart walked toward the elevator to leave without another word or look.

Brooklyn, Chuck and Dylan exchanged a look, all looking numb by their father's treatment of them. Brooklyn walked toward the stairs to go up to her room without a word. Dylan stood, walking away. Chuck was left on the couch, as none of the siblings could talk about what the paternal cruelty was like for each other, with their history of being pit against each other and coming to a point where they could be civil with one another just a year or two before.

X • O ° X • O

Day Two

Morning - Von Miller Mansion - Zaya's Room

Zaya and Sadie were finishing up Zaya's dress, and Jenny had finished up Penelope's dress, giving it to her. Penelope and Hazel were lounging on Zaya's bed, reading the Gossip Girl blast about Noe and Nate from the day before.

Penelope sighed. "It sucks that Nate and Noe got back together."

Sadie smirked. "It's all over Gossip Girl. You have a crush on Nate, huh?"

"According to Noe, Penelope here always had a crush on Nate, and Hazel always had a crush on Alex," Zaya answered.

Jenny looked nervous. "Yeah. Well, what's not to like about Alex? He's like so sweet with Hope and he's a gentleman and..." Zaya, Sadie, Hazel and Penelope looked at her curiously. Zaya narrowed her eyes. "I mean, both Alex and Nate are."

Sadie looked at Penelope. "Why do you care if Alex and Nate are with Hope and Noe?"

"Well, now that the Archibald name is on the social rebound, I wanted to ask Nate to the ball, before Gossip Girl said he was back together with Noe," Penelope answered. "And Hazel's desperate enough to not care that Alex is taken, but knows she can't do anything about Hope. But she has to know that it's doomed, and was from the start. I mean, Alex is Upper East Side, and Hope's from Brooklyn, even if she's the Angel of and is actually liked by all the 'it girls/guys' from your little clique. I mean, even Blair Waldorf, Brooklyn Bass and Thyra Diamond like Hope. I don't get it."

"I do," Zaya told her. "Hope's pretty cool."

"Yeah, but with the title of 'Angel of Brooklyn' and all, she could certainly be taken down a notch or two," Hazel told them, looking like she was trying to come up with a scheme. "Something that could show her that she could be just like the rest of us. And show everybody else too. Alex could see that she's not the pure thing she seems to be."

Penelope nodded in agreement. "We were just trying to think of a way to send her a little message."

Zaya, Sadie and Jenny gave them a look.

"Thyra and Brooklyn would kill you if you even tried," Sadie pointed out. "Maybe even Blair."

"Yeah, I mean, Thyra and Brooklyn, even Blair, they've all gone out of their ways to protect Hope, even from our friend Vanessa," Jenny told them. "So have Chuck, Dylan and Wyatt. And she's Noe's best friend."

Zaya looked at Jenny. "Hang on, what did Vanessa do?"

"Oh, she had this video of Hope and Noe talking about something that got used against them, and Alex and Nate, and it screwed everything up and it sent Noe into a guilt and shame spiral that almost got her hurt, mostly because she was trying to hurt herself because of the guilt," Jenny answered. Zaya and Sadie both looked angry and protective. "And that wasn't even the first time that Vanessa had a video like that. The first video, it was more of Blair, Brooklyn, Thyra, Wyatt, Dylan and Chuck, and talking about secrets from Nate, Alex and Noe, back when Noe didn't remember hardly anything, and it could have seriously hurt all of them back then too."

Zaya narrowed her eyes, clearly protective, and angry that someone would even do that to her cousin. Sadie frowned, feeling the same.

Isabel walked into the room, wearing a see through dress. "Feast your eyes, ladies. Well, what do you think?"

The girls's mouths dropped in amusement and surprise.

Zaya subtly covered Sadie's eyes with her hand.

Sadie pushed her hand away. "I think you shouldn't stand in front of the light in that dress."

Zaya did a circling motion with her finger to single to Isabel to turn around to look at the mirror behind her.

Isabel turned to the mirror to look at her reflection. "Oh, my God. It's see through!"

Zaya smirked. "Well, that's one way to be the center of attention."

Penelope smiled. "At least you don't have to worry about going home alone."

Hazel laughed. Isabel ran into the bathroom.

Hazel looked at Zaya's dress nearby. "What do you guys think Hope is wearing to the ball? I mean, I know that's her design, even though Zaya and Sadie made it. It's gorgeous by the way. Like all of Hope's dresses."

"You sound so jealous," Zaya told her in amusement.

Sadie smirked smugly, speaking in a singsong voice tauntingly. "Because you know Hope's better than you."

Hazel narrowed her eyes at Sadie. "Don't you have naptime?"

Sadie rolled her eyes. "I may be 12, but I'm more capable than you. And less of a baby, since you keep whining, whining, whining."

Zaya and Jenny smirked.

Isabel walked back into the room with a jacket over her dress.

Zaya got an idea. "Jenny, Isabel's dress looks a little like one of yours, don't you think?"

Jenny laughed. "No. Not at all. I know of a little something called 'lining'."

Zaya sat back on her window seat, leaning against her arm, nodding, tilting her head. "Well, what if you didn't?"

Penelope, Isabel and Hazel, thinking that Zaya was going with their idea of sending Hope a message, smiled, but Zaya was thinking about sending a message to someone else. Sadie and Jenny realized who Zaya really wanted to send the message too. Jenny looked conflicted, and Sadie smiled, tilting her head. Zaya smirked, raising her eyebrows.

Gossip Girl: (voice over) "Snowflake or snow fake? Either way, it's gonna be a ball. Because if Zaya and Sadie von Miller had their way, the snowflake ball might turn into a snowstorm of revenge."

X • O ° X • O

X • O ° X • O

VDW/Bass Apartment - Serena's Room

Noe, Serena, Brooklyn, Thyra and Blair were in the room together. Serena and Noe were sitting on the bed, painting their nails. Brooklyn sat on the window seat. Thyra was sitting in a chair, trying on shoes.

Blair was going through the closet. "Chuck is in for the shock of his life. I have depths he'll never plumb, but I know every inch of his wafer-thin soul."

Thyra showed them her choice of heels. "What do you think? You're right, Louboutin peep toes, always."

"Hey, just so you know, seeing someone with your ex, even if you think you're ready?" Serena asked. "Not easy."

"I assume you're talking about your lame outer-boroughs double date last night," Noe told her. "What happened?"

"Uh, nothing," Serena answered. "It was great... right up until Dan asked Lexi to go with him, me and James to the snowflake ball."

Thyra stretched out her leg, leaning back to look at how good the heel looked on her.

"So you're going to the dance as a lame double date?" Brooklyn asked.

"Well, James doesn't want to, and I don't want to either, we just want to be alone," Serena answered. "And I'm sure that we will be, eventually. And then James tells me she tends to extend herself to guys on a first date."

Thyra laughed. "So?"

"So?" Serena repeated. "We--we're friends. So shouldn't I, like, give him a heads up or something?"

Noe nodded sarcastically. "Oh, absolutely. Guys hate to be caught off guard with sex on the first date."

Serena sighed. "You're right. You're right. I should just not think about it."

"Exactly," Blair agreed. "Just like I'm sure Dan doesn't think about you and James all horizontal and sweaty."

Serena didn't respond.

"Wait, you and James have slept together, haven't you?" Brooklyn asked. Serena didn't answer. "You've gotta be kidding me. You two got married when you were eight, and you've been together for at least two months now, and you haven't slept together?"

"Why not?" Noe asked. "James is hot, and you actually like him."

"How often do you find that in the same guy?" Thyra asked.

"Which is one of the reasons we haven't rushed into anything," Serena told them.

"I'm guessing the other is James moving on from the car crash and Caroline's death, and his near death," Blair told her.

Serena nodded, looking concerned.

"That's actually a good thing," Thyra told her. "It's good. But James is really happy with you and he deserves to be happy. And so do you."

Serena smiled.

"Yeah, James has been trying to move on from the crash, his near death, and Caroline," Brooklyn listed. "And good for him. You two want to wait? Fine. But Dan is going to be taking a ride on the Lexi-coaster."

"I like that you're playing it safe, not just for you, but for James too," Noe told her. "After everything with Caroline and the crash, it's smart."

"But I hope both of you are able to move forward," Blair told her. "Think about it."

Serena nodded.

"Now let's finish getting ready," Brooklyn told them. "Self-worth comes within, my bitches, and I'm feeling like a million dollars, literally, especially going to be tonight. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go get ready."

Brooklyn stood, walking away. Serena, Noe, Thyra and Blair watched her go in amusement, exchanging an amused look.

X • O ° X • O

Gallery/Cafe

(Song:) Steady - Alain Whyte

Zaya and Sadie pulled Jenny up to the cafe.

Sadie was holding a garment bag, pushing it into Jenny's arms.

Jenny shook her head. "Zaya, Sadie, I'm really not sure about this."

"Come on, you were so pissed when you told us about what Vanessa did to Noe, Nate, Alex and Hope with the second video," Zaya pointed out. "Imagine how I felt and how Sadie felt when we realized that Vanessa's a big reason why Noe spiraled so bad and almost got really hurt." Jenny nodded in understanding, looking down. "And come to find out she did it before last year with Brooklyn, Thyra, Blair, Wyatt, Dylan and Chuck too? Come on."

"You think this dress is going to change anything?" Jenny asked. "Sure, it humiliates her because of how it'll make her look at the ball."

Sadie nodded in agreement, giving her a duh look. "Uh, duh. That's kinda the point. The mean girls want that dress to go to Hope, but instead, you're gonna give it to Vanessa. So you're protecting Hope, and helping me and Zaya get back at Vanessa for what she did to two people that we all care about. Your sister, our cousin. She screwed Hope and Noe over so badly. And I know that you don't care about Nate, Alex, Chuck, Blair, Brooklyn, Thyra, Dylan and Wyatt, but we do."

"I do care about Alex... and Nate," Jenny told them. Zaya rolled her eyes, giving Jenny a knowing look. "I mean, they've been nice to me and they helped me out a couple of times. And maybe it was because I'm just Hope's little sister, but... yeah, the others I don't like at all. And you two are just counting on the fact that looks get you by in life, good or bad?"

Sadie gave her a look. "Where did you get that from?"

Zaya shook her head, looking down. "And not everything is about looks. The three of us are just banking on our great, blackmail-y personalities getting the job done."

Sadie pointed at Jenny. "Even if you suck at yours."

"That's hurtful," Jenny told her.

"Don't care," Sadie replied, tilting her head, crossing her arms.

Zaya smirked at her little sister in amusement, giving Jenny a push toward the cafe. "Now go."

Jenny walked a few steps, before giving a look back at Zaya and Sadie.

Sadie gestured Jenny forward with a wave of her hand, watching in curiosity.

Vanessa was working in the cafe. Jenny walked up to her with the garment bag.

"Jenny, hey," Vanessa greeted. "You haven't talked to me in weeks."

"That's because Hope and Dan told me about what you did with the video," Jenny admitted. "And I was so mad at you, for Hope and Noe, and I still am."

"So you're gonna kill me and put me in the garment bag?" Vanessa asked.

"I couldn't sleep last night," Jenny told her, unzipping the garment bag, revealing Isabel's see through dress. "I was up half the night making this before I realized who it was for."

"You made that for me?" Vanessa asked.

Jenny nodded. "Yeah. I mean, um... Dan hasn't talked to you, Hope hasn't talked to you, because they were both angry and hurt about what you did, and lied about it to Dan, before Hope told him the truth, and then they told me, and I was angry and hurt too. So I guess just consider this a peace offering. You've been too close to us Humphreys for all of that to go away. I have been invited to the snowflake ball, and I got a plus one, so this is for you to wear to the ball."

Vanessa chuckled. "I, uh... I don't--I don't know what to say."

Jenny shrugged. "Just say you'll try it on. Please."

Vanessa nodded, taking the dress. "Okay."

Vanessa walked away. Jenny looked over her shoulder toward Zaya and Sadie in the gallery.

Zaya and Sadie were looking around, watching Vanessa walk past with the dress to go try it on, looking at each other, and over their shoulders at Jenny, smirking.

Sadie smiled. "I might not be able to go to the dance tonight, but I hope you have fun with the scheme, Zaya."

Zaya chuckled. "Yeah, I think I will be able to. Unless I see somebody from Unity. But I think I'll be fine."

"Let me know how the scheme goes?" Sadie asked.

Zaya nodded in agreement. "Of course. I'll film it for you so you can see yourself."

Sadie smiled. "You're the best scheming big sister I could ask for."

"And you're the best scheming little sister I could ever want," Zaya replied.

Zaya and Sadie did a little handshake, both smiling, kissing their fingers crossing them in a bond like manner, wrapping an arm around each other as they walked out of the building together without looking back.

(Song Ends)

X • O ° X • O

Waldorf Penthouse - Dining Room

Dorota was sitting at the table, researching on a laptop. Wyatt, James and Thyra were sitting at the table, eating lunch.

Blair was pacing behind Dorota. "I thought I made it clear that we need to find Chuck the perfect date."

Thyra chuckled, looking at the list so far. "Kristin Curran is the loosest girl in your class."

"Don't you know Chuck doesn't like his fruit pre-picked?" Blair asked.

"She has long hair," Dorota told them. "In Poland, long hair symbolizes--"

"Elizabeth Philips is somewhere between Mormon and moron," Wyatt told them.

James smirked in amusement. "Dorota, how did you come up with these?"

"Facebook," Dorota answered. "I join few groups."

James chuckled. "Wyatt, I can't believe you and Dylan came up with a bet for Chuck and Blair."

Wyatt shrugged. "It seemed reasonable at the time."

Thyra smirked.

Blair pointed at Thyra, Wyatt and James. "You three stop enjoying this so much."

Thyra, Wyatt and James smiled. 

"Is Aurora still talking with Cyrus and Eleanor?" James asked.

"Yeah, they've been taking all day," Thyra answered.

Wyatt frowned. "I wonder what they're talking about."

Blair continued to pace. "Forget what they're talking about and help me think. This has to be Chuck's dream girl. Intelligent but not a bookworm, strong-willed but still feminine. An equal." They knew she was describing herself. "And he likes brunettes with deep brown eyes."

"But, Blair, that's you," James told her.

Blair gave him a look. "No, that girl is out there." James smirked. Wyatt and Thyra hid smiles. Blair looked at Dorota. "And you better hope for your sake that I find her!"

Dorota was desperate. "Please. I don't want to shine Mr. Chuck's shoes for month."

Thyra scoffed. "Yeah, his shoes if you're lucky."

"What?" Dorota asked.

Thyra shook her head. "Nothing."

"Now get back to work," Blair told her. "Ticktock, ticktock."

Aurora walked in. "You teens up to something again?"

"When aren't we, Aurora?" Wyatt replied.

Aurora smirked. "True."

Wyatt and Blair smiled, walking over to Aurora so they could embrace.

"Welcome back, Aurora," Blair told her. "How long do you plan to stay? As long as Harry? You know, we can never get too much of Diamonds or Vanderbilts/Archibalds around here."

Aurora tilted her head. "I don't know. We'll see. I definitely think it will be longer than usual."

Thyra smiled. "Good. I miss you too much when you're gone, Rory."

Aurora wrapped her arm around Thyra's shoulders. "Yeah, I miss you too much, too, Thyra. And Blair and Wyatt here. Hello, James."

James stood. "Aurora. It's been a while for me to see you, any Diamond over than Thyra, or Harry Vanderbilt. You've been talking to Cyrus and Eleanor for a while."

Aurora nodded in agreement. "How are you?"

"I take it you mean Caroline and the accident," James told her.

Aurora bit her lip lightly. "Yes. I know what you're feeling, as does Thyra, obviously. I'm not one for comfort, but just know that you're not alone, James. I hope you know that."

James nodded in agreement. "I know. Thanks, Aurora." Blair, Wyatt and Thyra managed small smiles, sadly. Aurora nodded to herself, looking distracted. James sighed. "I should go. I'm meeting Serena before the dance, so..."

They nodded in understanding. James walked out of the apartment. Thyra and Aurora looked at each other with small smiles.

X • O ° X • O

Street

Dan was walking down the street, carrying a suit garment bag over his shoulder, on the phone. "You know, when you rent a tux in Brooklyn, they throw in the shoes."

Serena was in her room. "No, I--I didn't know that. Um, what's going on?"

"Uh, well, this is probably stupid, but I just wanted to make sure that this was all okay with you," Dan told her. "You know, uh, you, me, James and Lexi."

Serena nodded, frowning. "Yeah, of--of course. Why wouldn't it be?"

"Well, I don't know," Dan admitted. "Dramatic precedent?"

"Well, I think we've outgrown that," Serena told him.

Dan nodded. "Good. Good. Me, too. Uh, you know, I have to say, I'm really looking forward to this tonight."

"Oh, okay, great," Serena told him. "Um, I will--I'll just talk to you later then."

"Yeah, I--I'll see you," Dan agreed. They hung up. "Yeah."

X • O ° X • O

VDW/Bass Apartment - Serena's Room

James walked in, having just gotten there. "Hey, Serena."

Serena smiled, putting her phone down. "Hey. I--I so appreciate you coming tonight."

James chuckled. "I know. You've thanked me a dozen times."

Serena bit her lip nervously. "I know. I know, but, um..." She trailed a hand along James' very short, slightly spiky hair, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I wanna thank you..." She kissed him. "Properly." They kissed a little more deeply. "Later tonight."

James raised his eyebrows, surprised but amused. "Really?"

Serena nodded. "If you want to."

James smiled. "Yeah. Yeah, I do."

James and Serena kissed slowly, sweetly and passionately.

X • O ° X • O

Cafe/Gallery

Vanessa was wearing the dress.

Jenny was fixing it up. "There."

Vanessa smiled. "It's beautiful. Um, Jenny, about the whole video--"

"Hang bag," Jenny cut her off, handing her the hang bag. "Here. I'm gonna get going."

"Yeah, okay," Vanessa told her.

"You can tell me whatever at the ball," Jenny told her.

Vanessa nodded. "All right. See you."

"See you," Jenny replied, walking out.

Vanessa frowned.

X • O ° X • O

Eleanor's Atelier

Hope was on the phone, closing up the atelier when the interns were going home. "So I take it today has just been you, Nate and Harry hanging out?"

Alex was at Harry's mansion with Nate and Harry. "Yeah, since Mom's out of town and we're having some uncle/nephews time, after we were all hanging out yesterday."

"You were right about Harry and Aurora," Hope told him. "Complete opposites but I see why you and the others always looked up to one of them. I like them."

"I knew you would," Alex told her. "You closing up shop for today?"

"And going to get ready for tonight," Hope answered. "I love you."

"I love you too," Alex agreed. "I'll see you soon."

Alex and Hope hung up. Alex turned to face Nate and Harry.

Harry smirked. "I like that girl. Hope. She seems like a good fit for you, Alex. And I see Nate finally admitted that he's been in love with Noe for how long?"

"What, you knew?" Nate asked.

"I think almost everyone did but you, for a long, long time, even though Noe wasn't here for most of the time," Harry answered.

Alex laughed. "Basically, yeah."

Alex and Harry laughed.

Nate tilted his head. "Oh, come on, it's not that funny."

Harry nodded. "Yeah, it is, Nate. Alex and I used to take bets for how long it would take for you to finally realize it, that you were so in love with Noe."

Nate looked embarrassed but amused, trying not to smile. "Can you go back to Aspen now, Harry?"

The three of them laughed again.

X • O ° X • O

VDW/Bass Apartment - Living Room

Lily was dressed for the ball, on the phone. "Could you tell Bart that I'm waiting for him to go to the snowflake ball? Well... a meeting? Well, who's it with? Andrew Tyler? Let me call you back." She hung up, going through some of Bart's things in his desk, including a file of papers, which had a paper labeled Andrew Tyler Investigations, remembering that he was the PI Bart mentioned who he had create the files on the family and friends of family. She called back. "Hi, uh, it's me. Could you inform Mr. Bass... that my plans have changed? I won't be waiting, and he shouldn't come to the ball."

Lily hung up.

X • O ° X • O

X • O ° X • O

Night - The Snowflake Ball

(Song:) The Sun Ain't Shining No More - The Asteroids Galaxy Tour

The snowflake ball was more of a normal event/party than an actual ball, but everyone was having fun, some drinking, some dancing, having a blast.

Zaya, Brooklyn and Thyra were standing together.

Brooklyn smiled, shaking her head. "Zaya, I can't believe you and Sadie teamed up with Jenny Humphrey of all people to get back at Vanessa for the videos she did."

"Yeah, well, Vanessa doesn't know us, but soon she will, and she'll know not to mess with our family or friends again," Zaya replied. "I got to record it for Sadie since she can't be here but she wants to see how it goes."

Thyra smirked. "Of course she did. After what she did to Lisa with hacking her school and getting her a failure this semester for the fight at the rink, I'm not surprised. Sadie's already a little devious mastermind, isn't she?"

"Eh, we can teach her to do better," Brooklyn answered. "She's got what it takes though."

Zaya, Brooklyn and Thyra smiled.

"So you all set?" Thyra asked.

"Sadie and I made sure Jenny delivered the dress," Zaya explained. "Vanessa cues in, we cue the song..."

Brooklyn looked up at a boy with a spotlight on the balcony above them. "Zaya's new boyfriend hits her with the spotlight."

The boy shone the spotlight on Zaya.

Zaya glared at him, causing him to shine the spotlight away. "I hate you all." The girls laughed. "And we expose her in nothing but her cheap glass slippers."

Thyra smirked. "I'm impressed. You, Sadie and Jenny did this all yourselves to defend Noe and Hope, and you and Sadie also did it to defend Alex, Nate, and us Bass-Waldorf-Diamonds. It's sweet. Thanks."

"Yeah," Brooklyn agreed.

Zaya saw Lana across the ball with Zaya's ex-boyfriend from the flashbacks earlier. Zaya's face went cold from seeing them together like that, and the way they looked at her and were mocking her from across the way. Zaya looked away, unblinking.

Thyra frowned. "Zaya? You okay?"

Zaya swallowed, nodding. "Yeah. Um, I need some air."

Zaya walked away. Brooklyn and Thyra looked at who Zaya had been looking at, seeing Lana and Zaya's ex-boyfriend.

"Who the hell is that?" Brooklyn asked.

"The girl is Lana, one of the girls from the roller rink," Thyra answered. "She and Zaya had a long standing rivalry. I'm not sure who the hell the boy is though."

Brooklyn and Thyra exchanged a look, walking off to find Zaya.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Aurora was standing alone.

Harry passed her by, smirking. "Rory."

"Call me that again and see what happens," Aurora told him.

Harry chuckled. "I love it when you play hard ball. Save me a dance?"

Aurora nodded sarcastically. "Oh, uh, yeah. Sure. Maybe after the world's stopped turning and hell freezes over."

Harry smirked. "Why? What's your idea of a perfect date that doesn't require that, Aurora?"

"Watching you get hit by a bus," Aurora told him, patting Harry on the chest twice sarcastically. "You have a nice night, Harry."

Aurora walked away. Harry watched her go, smirking.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

A girl walked up to Chuck. "Are you Chuck Bass?"

"Are you Blair's girl?" Chuck asked. "Not bad. You know, the roof has a spectacular view of the city."

Blair squeezed between the girl and Chuck, facing Chuck, looking at the girl from over her shoulder. "Excuse me, he's taken. Shoo."

Chuck looked Blair over. "You look lovely."

Blair tilted her head, speaking in a singsong voice. "Not as lovely as I'll look in my limo." She ran a hand down Chuck's shoulder. "Where's my Prince Uncharming?"

Chuck chuckled. "Sandbox rules. I'll show you mine if you show me yours."

"Fine," Blair told him. "Here she comes." A girl that looked a lot like Blair walked up to them. "Justine, this is Chuck Bass."

Chuck looked like he found this ironic, shaking Justine's hand. "Very nice to meet you."

Chuck gestured to his choice for Blair's date to come forward. The boy that came forward looked similar to Chuck, in attitude and appearance.

Blair scoffed. "You can't be serious. I need to talk to you." She led Chuck away by the hand. "Excuse us."

Justine and the boy looked at each other, smiling a bit.

Dylan and Wyatt were dancing together on the dance floor, having seen most of the exchange.

Dylan laughed. "Did you know that Blair was going to pick someone that looked just like her for Chuck?"

"Not just looks, but Blair tried to go for most like her in personality and all," Wyatt admitted. "Did you know Chuck would do the same thing?"

"No," Dylan answered. "Well, we'll just have to see if this little bet goes anywhere."

Wyatt nodded in agreement, as they continued to dance. "And if it doesn't?"

Dylan pulled Wyatt closer, smirking. "Well, then, we'll just have to have our own fun, won't we?"

Dylan and Wyatt smirked, kissing while they continued to dance.

Elsewhere on the dance floor, Serena and James were dancing, having fun, smiling, and couldn't keep their hands to themselves.

Lexi and Dan were watching them.

"Looks like tonight's the night," Lexi remarked.

"What, uh, what are you--what are you talking about?" Dan asked.

"Well, James likes to play things a little close to the vest," Lexi explained. "He doesn't like to share, so took a little arm-twisting, but I finally found out that Serena gave him the green light for tonight."

Dan was confused before it hit him. "Oh, you--they--they haven't had sex?"

Lexi shook her head, amused. "You're not as quick on the uptake as you pretend to be, Humphrey." Dan chuckled nervously. "Do you care?"

Dan shook his head. "I don't. I don't."

Lexi didn't seem entirely convinced, smiling anyway. Dan looked toward where Serena and James were still dancing.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Blair and Chuck were talking.

"We both know that I'm you're one and only, and a Canal Street knockoff seemed like the best option," Blair told him.

Chuck nodded in agreement, smirking at the irony. "My thinking exactly."

Blair forced a smile. "Fine. You know, if Beta-Bass is anything like the original, I've no doubt that sooner or later, he'll disappoint me."

"And I'm curious to see if the new Blair has all the features I so enjoyed on the old model," Chuck replied.

"So the bet is still on?" Blair asked.

"Unless you're prepared to concede," Chuck answered.

"To you?" Blair asked. "Never."

Blair walked away. Chuck watched her go, smirking.

(Song Ends)

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

(Song:) Breakdown - Deerheart

Noe walked into the dance, looking around. She saw Nate, walking up to him, smiling. "Hi."

"Hi," Nate replied. "Oh, finally, you've taken yourself away from the file."

Noe smiled. "And you've pried yourself away from a day with Alex and Harry. Did you have fun?"

"Extremely needed fun with our uncle, yes," Nate answered. "Alex and I needed that after everything."

"I'm glad you did," Noe told him.

Nate smiled. "Thank you. And wow, you look gorgeous."

"Thank you," Noe told him.

Nate offered a hand. "Would you like to dance?"

"I would love to," Noe answered.

Nate took Noe by the hand, spinning her around, pulling her close as they started to dance to the slow song.

X • O ° X • O

Dance Floor

Hope and Alex were dancing to the slow song.

"I forgot how fun just a school associated dance could be," Hope admitted. "Hell, forgot what going to school actually feels like."

"Do you miss it?" Alex asked.

"In a way," Hope answered. "I mean, I got to see you and Noe more, but before I met you two, I was pretty much always alone. The invisible smart girl. Until all of this changed, and I actually got to meet all of the 'in crowd' or 'it clique'."

"Yeah," Alex agreed.

"But it was so worth it," Hope told him. "I mean, I know who all of you are, Alex. I know what you've all done, some worse than others. But you all have your good sides too. Just like everyone else. And even though some can backstab each other, they'd sooner go to war to protect them. And the ones they care about. We're both proof of that, hmm?"

"Yeah, we are," Alex answered.

"But I still got you, my friends, and I'm making such strides at the atelier, in the company, and learning so much," Hope pointed out. "And it could all help to make it to my own that much faster."

"You don't worry that you're growing up too fast?" Alex asked.

Hope shrugged. "I think we all had to grow up too fast." Alex nodded in agreement. "You just all have security that you know you're going to get what you want in life, and that's a good thing. I don't have security. I just have to work for it with everything I've got and I'm gonna get it. Not taking any pity or buy outs from anyone. Just got to do it my own way, or no way."

Alex smirked. "That's my girl."

Hope smiled. "I love how it sounds when you say that."

Alex laughed lightly. "Yeah, well, I like saying it."

"What about you?" Hope asked.

"Oh, we talked about me and my day earlier," Alex pointed out. "Let's just have fun and be actual teenagers for the first time in a while."

Hope smiled, nodding in agreement, as they continued to dance and smile, kissing slowly yet passionately.

Aurora and Harry saw Nate with Noe, and Alex with Hope. Aurora managed a small smile to see this, and to see Wyatt and Dylan. She looked around for Thyra and Brooklyn.

Laureen was at the side of the party, looking around for Zaya.

X • O ° X • O

Outside

Zaya had gone to get some air, looking incredibly upset. Brooklyn and Thyra walked out to check on her.

"Zaya?" Brooklyn asked. "You okay?"

Zaya kept her back to them, trying to appear okay. "Yeah, I'm fine."

"We saw that girl from the roller rink in there," Thyra explained. "Lana? With some boy. Is that why you came out here?"

Zaya was so upset that she felt like she had to tell them or she could break down, nodding. "Mm-hmm. The boy... he's my ex-boyfriend."

Brooklyn and Thyra were both surprised.

"Ever since the roller rink, I wanted to know why those girls went after you and Sadie like that," Thyra admitted. "To find a way to be there for you guys."

Brooklyn looked down. "Earlier, I might have glanced at one of the files that my dad had on the family. You were mentioned. Unity. I didn't see a lot, but..."

Zaya sighed. "I figured it was only a matter of time before someone at Constance found out. I mean, Gossip Girl's been trying to figure it out or get any leads about my secret since I came, so..." She sat down. Brooklyn and Thyra sat down with her. "I was dating him. And, he, uh... he asked me to send him a picture. And I did. The kind of pic that boys ask for. And every girl in the school was doing it with their boyfriends. And I thought that I had to, because if I didn't, people would find out..."

"Find out what?" Thyra asked.

Zaya licked her lips, shaking her head, still in denial, but not as much as back then. "It doesn't matter. That asshat showed Lana the pictures and she sent them to everyone in school. Faculty, students. She exposed my dyslexia and people were calling me an idiot and a fraud and... so many other things. I walked out from that school, and I didn't let them see how much it hurt, and I even slapped the hell out of Lana and my ex." The girls laughed a bit, but Zaya was still upset. "But after that, my father was different. I mean, he was starting to be different a little bit before that, but after that, it was like he snapped. And he started to be horrible to me, and to Sadie and Mom. Before it was good. We were good as a family. We were happy. It wasn't perfect, but it was good. But now it's a living nightmare. And it's all because of me. Because of what I did."

Brooklyn and Thyra shook their heads in concern.

"Zaya, not one thing could make someone change like that, especially not after something like this," Brooklyn told her. "This wasn't on you. And I think you're really brave. I know a lot of girls would have hurt themselves after what happened to you. Maybe worse. I mean, I don't know if I'd be strong enough to handle all of that on top of what your family goes through."

"I don't know if I could've either," Thyra admitted.

"You survived the death of your parents, and Brooklyn survived what happened to her mother, and all of your issues from both of you, Thyra," Zaya pointed out. "Both of you would have survived and probably did a lot better than me. I never should've sent that picture."

"He never should've shared it," Thyra told her.

Zaya looked down, eyes glazed over. "I knew something was wrong with me. I went out with the most popular guy at Unity so that I could hide it, and so I could remain queen, because being queen was the only thing that could hide my dyslexia. And I didn't want anyone to know because people called me stupid and an idiot, and I... I get enough of being called that by my father's side of the family, who are all geniuses. I didn't need it from anyone else. And I knew that my ex could be a jerk, but he was so nice to me. After a few months, I thought that I was actually getting to like him. That it was getting serious. But I guess it wasn't the same for him. I don't think he ever saw me as anything more than the next girl. My mom was so disappointed but she forgave me and tried to take care of me and Sadie, but my father was destroyed. He won't even hardly talk to me anymore, and when he does, he's a complete prick to all of us and he uses Sadie's heart condition to keep me and Mom in line so we don't speak out against him or start a fight that could potentially end her life."

"Your own father is gaslighting you and Laureen with Sadie's life, and that's not your fault," Brooklyn told her. "It's Richard's."

"I'm so sorry, but Brooklyn's right, Zaya," Thyra told her. "It's not your fault. Or Sadie or Laureen's. It's Richard's."

Zaya swallowed. "Yeah. Well, it still feels like my fault."

Brooklyn and Thyra looked at her sadly, both taking one of Zaya's hands. Zaya took a deep breath, trying to pull herself together, but relieved to have them there to be there for her.

X • O ° X • O

Inside

Lily walked up to Rufus. "Hi, Rufus."

Rufus looked Lily over, smiling. "Wow. Where's Bart?"

Lily hesitated. "I'm leaving him. I'm doing it for me. I don't expect anything. Except maybe a dance."

Rufus and Lily took each other in their arms, and started to dance.

(Song Ends)

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

(Song:) Saturday Morning (After the Funeral) - Afternoons

Thyra, Zaya and Brooklyn walked back inside, their arms linked, as they looked around.

"Are you gonna be okay?" Brooklyn asked.

"Yeah," Zaya answered. "Thank you. Both of you."

"Of course," Thyra agreed.

Aurora walked up to them. "Brooklyn, Zaya, hi. Can I steal Thyra real quick?"

"Yeah, sure," Zaya answered. "Hi, Aurora."

"Hi, Zaya," Aurora replied. Thyra and Aurora walked away. Aurora walked by Dylan and Wyatt. "Hey, Dylan."

"Aurora, long time no see," Dylan greeted.

"Very," Aurora agreed. "I'll talk to you more later, but can we borrow Wyatt real quick?"

"Sure," Dylan answered. "I'll go get us some drinks."

"Thanks, Dylan," Wyatt told him. Aurora led Wyatt and Thyra aside. "What's going on, Aurora?"

Aurora looked around. "Uh, just a second." She saw Blair looking for Beta-Bass as she called him earlier. "Blair, could you come here for a second?"

Blair walked closer. "Anything to distract me from this stupid bet with Chuck. Wyatt, this is all your fault. Yours and Dylan's."

"Whatever," Wyatt replied. "Looks like Dylan and I are the only ones winning."

"Hardly," Blair retorted.

Aurora smirked. "Having fun?"

"Uh, Brooklyn and I were just there for Zaya after a huge upset moment, and it was heavy," Thyra explained. "But I think that she's going to be okay. For now, at least."

Aurora nodded. "I'm glad, that you're being there for your friends." Thyra managed a small smile. "Including James, like you three were earlier and apparently have been for a little while now. But he won't be just a friend for much longer."

"You mean because of Cyrus and Eleanor getting engaged?" Thyra asked.

Wyatt nodded. "Yeah, Cyrus is James, Caroline and Carter's uncle, so once Cyrus and Mom get married, James and Carter would be like step cousins to me and Blair, and like adoptive step cousins for Thyra."

"With Cyrus and Eleanor's marriage, yeah, Carter would be your and Blair's step cousin, Wyatt," Aurora agreed. "And Thyra's adoptive step cousin. Caroline would have been. But James might me more, to all three of you. Did Cyrus tell either of you that he was planning on adopting James after everything their parents put Carter, James and Caroline through? To make sure that they can't take advantage of James or his budding career?"

"Yeah, actually," Blair answered. "Wait, is that why you wanted to talk to us?"

"Cyrus wants you to be the lawyer to help him adopt James?" Thyra asked.

"It's not just Cyrus that wants to adopt James," Aurora told them. Thyra, Blair and Wyatt realized what Aurora was saying, in shock. Aurora smiled at their reactions. "Yeah. Eleanor."

Wyatt took Blair and Thyra both by the hands. "Uh, we need to..."

"Go talk to James, now," Blair finished.

Aurora smiled. Blair, Wyatt and Thyra walked away.

Serena and James were dancing on the dance floor when Blair, Wyatt and Thyra walked up to them.

"Hey, James, can we talk to you?" Thyra asked.

James looked at Serena.

Serena nodded in agreement, letting go. "Yeah, go ahead."

"Sorry, Serena," Wyatt told her.

"It's fine," Serena assured.

James took Serena's hand, kissing it. "I'll be back soon." Serena smiled. James walked away with Blair, Wyatt and Thyra. "Oh, this better be important."

"More than you even know," Blair answered.

Dan saw James led away by Blair, Wyatt and Thyra, turning his head to see Serena standing alone. Serena saw him looking at her, looking awkward. Dan nodded for her to walk over to him. Serena and Dan walked closer to each other.

Dan started to lead Serena in a dance. "Uh, so you and James seem like you're having a good time."

"So do you guys," Serena said, nodding across the way to Lexi. Dan looked awkward. "What?"

Dan smiled awkwardly. "Uh, no. Uh, Lexi told me about... you--your and James's plan tonight, that's all."

Serena raised her eyebrows, sarcastic. "Oh, I am gonna miss her when she's gone."

Dan looked amused. "No, I only mention it because we're, you know, we're friends now. So, uh, is there anything you wanna talk about?"

"Well, what's there to talk about?" Serena asked. "We--we've been dating for a while. We've known each other for basically all our lives. It's not like we're rushing into anything."

"Right," Dan agreed. "And that's, uh, that's, you know, that's important."

Serena nodded. "Well, it is to some people. I know Lexi has a more 'come hither' attitude about sex."

Dan didn't realize what she meant. "Right. Wait, what?"

Serena looked awkward. "Well, she's planning on seducing you tonight."

Dan raised his eyebrows in surprise. "Seduce--seducing me? I..." He thought about it, looking content. "Wow."

"What does 'wow' mean?" Serena asked.

Dan tilted his head. "Well, I--I always assumed that I... would, uh... you know, again, sooner or later. Maybe 'assumed' is a strong word. 'Hoped' is probably more accurate." Serena looked down. "What?"

Serena took her hands away from his, no longer dancing. "Nothing. I just... you and Lexi together... I--I just thought sex was meaningful to you, you know? That's all."

Dan nodded. "Well, it is, and especially when I haven't had it in a long time."

Serena looked away. "Right. Okay then. Have fun."

Serena walked away.

Dan sighed. "Well, I... I was kidding."

Lexi turned to see Dan, smiling. "There you are." She walked up to him, offering her hand. "I'm parched. Drinks?"

Dan chuckled. "Sure."

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Blair, Wyatt and Thyra were telling James what Aurora told them.

"We have some things to talk about," Blair told him.

"What things?" James asked. "Does this have anything to do with why Cyrus and Eleanor were talking to Aurora all day?"

"Yes, all about that," Wyatt answered. "Um, our mother and Cyrus... Cyrus said for months that he's wanted to adopt you, right?"

"Well... Cyrus and Eleanor..." Thyra trailed off. "They've been talking to Aurora about adopting you."

James didn't know how to react at first, chuckling out of surprise. "Wait, what?"

"Like, adopt you into our family," Blair answered. "Mom did it with Thyra last year at Christmas, so it seems fitting that this year near Christmastime..."

"That she's be talking about it with Cyrus, and Aurora," Wyatt finished.

"You mean, like, I'd be your brother?" James asked.

"Basically," Thyra answered.

"Wait, why are you asking me and not them?" James asked.

"They're getting paperwork drawn up or something, apparently, and they wanted to surprise you, but..." Blair trailed off.

"What are you thinking about?" Thyra asked.

James raised his eyebrows slightly, processing everything, looking so moved and yet not knowing how to react. "I'm thinking... that I never thought Cyrus would actually adopt me even though he kept saying he would. But I should've known that he would. I mean, he's just an entertainment lawyer, which explains why they were talking to Aurora, since she's a lawyer to all type of things, including family lawyer. But... I never in a million years thought that Eleanor would..."

"Yeah, believe us, neither did we," Wyatt told him. "But we think this could be good. This is a good idea."

"I mean, I wasn't a fan of all of this before, but I agreed to embrace a new family and tradition after I realized Thanksgiving wasn't so bad," Blair explained. "And I think this could be really good for you, James."

"And if you end up being our adoptive brother and your brother still ends up being our step cousin, it still works out, and works out even better if you end up being our brother, James," Thyra told him.

James chuckled in surprise, placing his hands on his head. "Oh, God. Yeah. I'm getting used to all this, but yeah. I think I would like it."

"We would love it, James," Wyatt told him. "And I think you could end up loving it, too. So you can get used to all this, because soon enough, it's gonna be the real thing."

James was still processing, running a hand through his hair, looking down. "You guys know that I'm really screwed up, after everything that happened with Caroline, Carter, the accident."

"Of course we know that, dumbass," Thyra answered. James laughed lightly. The four of them smiled a bit. "But you're getting better, you're not doing drugs or drinking."

"Not anymore, at least," James agreed. "Not problematically."

"And you know that we're screwed up too," Wyatt told him.

"In certain ways," Blair agreed. "What do you say?"

James nodded, licking his lips. "Okay. Yeah. I'd like to be adopted, yeah. Especially since it's Eleanor and Cyrus."

Blair, Wyatt and Thyra smiled, and James started to smile in return.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Laureen found Zaya, who was with Brooklyn, walking closer. "Zaya, there you are. Sadie is with a friend of hers tonight, right? We agreed that we wouldn't leave her alone at the house."

"Sadie's with Lacy tonight, Mom, I promise," Zaya answered. "I made sure of it."

Laureen nodded in understanding, relief. "Good, good. Hello, Brooklyn."

"Hi, Laureen," Brooklyn greeted.

"You all right, Zaya?" Laureen asked.

"I am now," Zaya answered. "Don't worry about me, Mom."

"All right," Laureen agreed. "I'll let you two have fun."

Laureen walked away.

Zaya sighed, looking around. "So where is Vanessa? How long does that subway thingy take?"

"Maybe she's not coming," Brooklyn told her. "I wouldn't be surprised if she chickened out of coming to a gala."

"Or Little J had second thoughts and warned her not to come, but with how angry she was at Vanessa, I don't think she would bow out," Zaya admitted. "Hmm, you should know that I think Jenny has a crush on Alex, from the way she was talking about him and acted like a busted kid and then tried to cover her tracks. It could explain more on why she was jealous of Hope and why she did what she did."

Brooklyn frowned. "Yeah."

"And speaking of Hope, you should also know that Penelope, Hazel and Isabel wanted us to humiliate her instead of Vanessa, and they still think that we're humiliating Humble Hope," Zaya added.

Brooklyn looked exasperated. "And why the hell are they after Hope?"

"Sadie and I told them that would be your reaction," Zaya told her. "And they wanted to send her a message because they wanted to test her and see what she would do if they fired at her, trying to prove to everyone that she's not pure like they think and that she could be just like the rest of us."

Brooklyn crossed her arms. "Mm-hmm."

"Don't worry, I got that handled too," Zaya told her.

Brooklyn smirked. "I'm sure you do."

Vanessa arrived to the dance, walking through the crowd.

Zaya smirked. "Finally. Showtime."

Zaya took out her phone to start recording so she could broadcast it to Gossip Girl so Sadie could see for herself just like she promised.

When Vanessa was in the middle of the crowd looking for Jenny, Jenny started to have second thoughts, and started to take off her jacket. "Vanessa!"

Zaya stepped out so that the boy with the spotlight could see her, pointing up at him. The boy shone the spotlight on Vanessa, exposing that it was a see through dress to everyone around. A lot of people were laughing, some boys were whistling.

Thyra made her way over to Brooklyn and Zaya, as all three were laughing, and Zaya was still recording and sending to Gossip Girl.

Vanessa looked toward Jenny, realizing she set her up. Jenny looked down.

Noe and Hope were standing with Nate and Alex, all four looking confused.

Vanessa looked around at the people laughing at her, before leaving, embarrassed.

Zaya, Thyra and Brooklyn were satisfied given what Vanessa did with her videos and what it led to for Noe, Nate and Alex, smirking.

Gossip Girl: (voice over) "Poor Vanessa. Even Cinderella was given the courtesy of a stealth getaway. Then again, what are two ugly stepsisters compared to the masterminds of Zaya and Sadie von Miller and Jenny Humphrey? Looks like it might turn out to be an unhappily ever after for everyone."

(Song Ends)

X • O ° X • O

X • O ° X • O

Zaya walked toward Jenny. "Had second thoughts, Little J?"

Jenny sighed. "Sorry."

"You know, if I wanted a little bitch, I would've brought a dog," Zaya told her. "But you still went through with it. That I'll give you. Means you're just like the rest of us."

"Guess so," Jenny agreed.

Brooklyn walked closer. "About time you admit that."

Thyra walked closer.

Jenny rolled her eyes. "Of course you two would come up after that."

Thyra smirked. "What? I was impressed. It was a good show."

Noe and Hope walked up to them.

Brooklyn patted Zaya on the shoulder, looking from Zaya to Jenny. "But now you two get to explain to those two."

"Brooklyn, Thyra, did you do that to Vanessa?" Noe asked.

"Oh, no," Thyra answered. "But you can talk to two of the people that did, right here. Minus the other one. See you, Hope. Noe."

Thyra and Brooklyn walked away.

Noe and Hope were confused.

"Zaya?" Noe asked. "Jenny?"

Zaya and Jenny sighed, turning to face them completely.

"Thyra's right," Jenny told them. "Zaya and I did do it. Sadie helped."

Hope wasn't surprised at this point by what her sister would do, sighing. "Zaya, Jenny, why would you two and Sadie--"

"Jenny told me and Sadie about the video that Vanessa did, or videos, from last year and this year," Zaya answered. "The second one she took of you two and showed the Duke that it ruined Nate and Alex's chances of getting their lives back the first time, and both of you felt so guilty, and you spiraled so hard after that, Noe. You were so guilty that you wanted to hurt yourself, and that was because of Vanessa."

Noe looked embarrassed, sighing, putting her hands to her head. "Oh, my God. Zaya, Jenny, you two and Sadie did not have to do that for us."

"Well, it was either Vanessa or Hope, because Penelope, Hazel and Isabel wanted to 'take Hope down a notch' and see how far she could be pushed into retaliating and showing everyone that she could be just like us," Zaya replied. "If we hadn't given the dress to Vanessa, and said that we had given it to you, then they would've come after you in another way, Hope. And after what she did to you two, to Nate, Alex, Chuck, Dylan, Brooklyn, Thyra, Blair and Wyatt..."

Noe and Hope were absolutely stunned, exchanging a look.

Nate and Alex were further away, but able to hear them, knowing that Zaya, Sadie and Jenny did what they did in order to get revenge on Vanessa for what she did, especially to Noe, and to protect Hope from the mean girls, slightly impressed, exchanging a look.

"You three did all this to protect us," Noe stated. "Avenge all of us."

"Of course we did," Jenny answered. "I mean, I was just in it for you two, but Zaya and Sadie were in it for all of you."

Zaya and Jenny smiled.

Noe and Hope couldn't help but smile small smiles.

Harry walked up to Nate and Alex. "Did I miss something?"

"Just, uh, some mean girl show down and Zaya, Sadie and Jenny doing something pretty horrible to protect and avenge Noe and Hope, and me and Alex, and Brooklyn, Dylan, Chuck, Thyra, Wyatt and Blair," Nate answered.

"Vanessa did something pretty horrible to Noe and Hope, even though she's been friends with Hope, and Dan and Jenny for years, and to me and Nate even though she thought she was helping at the time," Alex explained. "And she's been battling with Brooklyn, Thyra, Blair, Dylan, Wyatt and Chuck for a year off and on, so..."

Harry nodded in amusement. "Looks like the Upper East Side is still the same as it's always been with your little crew and everything around it."

Nate and Alex shrugged in agreement. Nate, Alex and Harry smirked slightly.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Blair and Chuck were looking around.

"Where are they?" Blair asked.

"Relax," Chuck told her. "They'll be here somewhere. What did you, Wyatt and Thyra have to talk to James and Aurora about?"

"None of your business," Blair told him. "At least not until it's official."

"Until what's official?" Chuck asked.

Before Blair could respond, she saw Justine and Beta-Bass making out around the corner, appalled. "This is the worst out of body experience ever." She slapped her hands. "Hey!" Justine and Beta-Bass broke apart. "Explain this!"

"After you and Chuck walked off, Justine and I got to talking," Beta-Bass explained.

Justine smiled. "He took me up to the roof, and we looked over the city."

Chuck nodded in approval. "Well, of course he did."

"We just knew we were meant for each other," Beta-Bass told them.

Blair pointed at Justine. "But she's me, only less. I gave her that headband."

Beta-Bass shrugged. "We're as surprised as you are."

Beta-Bass and Justine went back to kissing.

Blair turned to look at Chuck. "Everyone, even our doppelgangers, can work it out, but we can't?"

Chuck looked down. Blair scoffed, walking away. Chuck looked at Beta-Bass and Justine before walking away as well.

X • O ° X • O

Balcony

Lily and Rufus were sitting together.

Lily sighed. "I hate that I have to hurt him. I know it sounds strange, but I suddenly feel horrible about what I have to do."

Rufus sighed. "I'd be worried about you if you didn't."

Lily looked regretful. "And the kids. Oh, Eric has become so accustomed to him."

Rufus shook his head. "Eric wants you to be happy."

"I never thought my life would turn out like this," Lily admitted. "I've always tried to do the right thing."

"It's all you can do," Rufus told her. "Just, uh... smile and fake it."

Lily tilted her head. "Tell me something, Rufus."

"What?" Rufus asked.

"Something you shouldn't," Lily answered with a shake of her head.

Rufus considered for a moment. "I never wanted to weigh in about your relationship with Bart. I was afraid of what I might say."

"Which was?" Lily asked.

Rufus looked at her for a long moment. "I let you go on your wedding day because... I was afraid I couldn't give you what you needed. I wasn't sure what I needed, and I have regretted it every day since."

Dylan walked up the stairs behind Lily, watching Lily and Rufus suspiciously as he walked along the balcony.

X • O ° X • O

On the Road - Bart's Limo

Bart was in the back of his limo, speaking with Andrew Tyler, who was sitting next to him. "As much as I appreciate company from the airport, I thought I made myself clear. Your services are no longer required."

"Trust me, you gave me a final assignment, and you do wanna know what I found out," Andrew told him.

Bart's phone rang. He pulled it out, looking at the Caller ID, answering. "This isn't a good time, Dylan. Whatever you, Chuck or Brooklyn are up to now, I don't have time for."

Dylan was on the balcony at the ball. "She's here."

"What are you talking about?" Bart asked.

"Lily's at the ball with Rufus Humphrey," Dylan answered. "And from what I'm seeing, you should figure something out and get down here now."

Bart hung up, considering for a long moment, before looking at Andrew. "What do you have?"

X • O ° X • O

X • O ° X • O

The Snowflake Ball - Balcony

Dylan walked toward Lily and Rufus.

Lily, realizing that Dylan heard them, stood worriedly. "Dylan."

Dylan turned to face her. "You've been good for Dad. For Chuck, for Brooklyn, for me. We always liked you, regardless of how we may of acted. Brooklyn was clear that she liked you because she bonded with you, and Serena, and Noe, Eric. So did I. Chuck even made attempts to bond." Lily nodded in agreement, sadly. "Dad's on his way here. You owe him a conversation."

Lily nodded. Dylan walked away.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Dylan walked up to Chuck and Brooklyn. "Chuck. Brooklyn. I need to talk to you two."

"Who pissed in your bourbon?" Brooklyn asked.

Dylan gave her a look.

Chuck chuckled. "What's wrong, Dylan? Brooklyn and I are all ears."

"It's about Lily, Rufus and Dad," Dylan explained.

Chuck and Brooklyn looked at him in confusion.

X • O ° X • O

Outside

Noe was standing outside, feeling the cold air, breathing deeply.

Nate walked outside toward Noe. "Hey. You okay?"

"Yeah, I just needed a little air," Noe answered.

Nate nodded in understanding. "Alex and I heard you and Hope earlier, with Zaya and Jenny. About what they and Sadie did."

"Yeah," Noe agreed. "I can't believe they publicly humiliated Vanessa just to get revenge and protect Hope from the mean girls."

"Well, I can believe it, and so can Alex, and Harry, who doesn't even know Jenny, but he's met Zaya and Sadie at events before in the past," Nate admitted. "So we're not surprised."

Noe smiled. "Yeah. Guess I shouldn't be either."

Nate shook his head. "Mm-hmm." Noe looked at Nate for a long moment, not sure what to say. "What?"

"I need to tell you something," Noe answered. "I couldn't stop thinking about trying to say this since Thanksgiving with everything that went on, with what I couldn't say because of my dad, and..."

"Is this a good thing or a bad thing?" Nate asked.

"It's something I haven't been able to say, even to myself," Noe answered. "I've, um, never felt this way about anyone before. Never. Not that I remember. And it made me realize that... I want to be with you, and only you, more than I even knew. I love you, Nate Archibald."

Nate smiled in surprise, very touched, and very happy, causing Noe to smile in relief to that reaction. "Nevaeh van der Woodsen, I wish I could say the same, but I don't think anyone's ever felt the way I feel about you before. I love you too, Noe."

Nate and Noe smiled, kissing passionately, holding each other close.

Further away up next to the street, Hope walked up to Alex. "You ready to go?"

"Yeah, Aurora and Harry bailed, God knows what the others are doing," Alex told her. "Besides Zaya, Sadie and Jenny pulling a Brooklyn, Thyra and Blair in order to avenge us all."

Hope chuckled. "Right? I just can't stop thinking about what would've happened if Zaya, Sadie and Jenny didn't do what they did, and then the lackeys came for me."

"I'm wondering that myself too," Alex admitted. "What would you have done, Hope?"

"I'm not sure," Hope admitted. "Probably nothing like what happened tonight, but I honestly don't know what would've happened."

"Well, I'm glad Zaya, Sadie and Jenny protected you," Alex told her. "Those girls shouldn't get the chance to mess with you. You didn't do anything to them. They just want test you."

"Yeah, well, as we've learned, I crack under the pressure of tests, and this could have been a really bad crack from pressure," Hope pointed out.

They chuckled.

"Well, you don't have to worry about it," Alex told her, wrapping his arms around her.

Hope tilted her head against his. "I love you, Alex."

"I love you too," Alex told her. "You want a drink?"

Hope nodded. "Mm, drinks. Let me say goodbye."

"Sure," Alex agreed.

Hope and Alex smiled, kissing slowly yet passionately.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Jenny and Zaya were standing together outside, seeing Nate and Noe, and Alex and Hope. Jenny looked a little jealous of Alex and Hope but trying to get past it. Zaya gave her a knowing look.

Penelope, Hazel and Isabel walked out to confront Zaya and Jenny.

"You two and Sadie said that you would give that dress to Hope," Penelope told them.

"We should've known you didn't have what it takes," Hazel told them.

"You never did," Isabel told them.

Zaya gave the three of them a look, starting to laugh. "Oh, sorry, was I supposed to be offended? I would call you three retards, but that would be insulting to those. We literally took down Vanessa because she crossed Noe, Hope, Nate, Alex, and the Waldorf-Diamond-Basses. And Brooklyn, Thyra and Blair would have destroyed all of you if you tried to stop us or if you tried anything against Noe or Hope. Serena would have too. I know who my friends and family are and where my loyalties lie, but none of you do. And if I did that to Vanessa for what happened to Noe because of her video, if you cross me, what makes you think that you won't be shown the same wrath?"

The three mean girls backed off from Zaya slightly, clearly afraid of her.

Jenny was amused and impressed, before speaking to the mean girls herself. "You know, I don't know what's more pathetic. That I wanted to be one of you, or that I was scared of you."

"Either way, that leaves you with pathetic," Penelope replied. "You and your sister."

"Uh, oh, Hope?" Zaya asked. "Hope is ten times the person you will ever be. That is why you hate her so much."

"It's easy for you to talk big when you know that we won't be able to do anything to you," Hazel told her.

"Damn right," Zaya agreed. "Don't you ever try to cross me, or what happened to Vanessa will look like child's play."

Penelope looked at Jenny. "Just because Zaya can do this, doesn't mean you can. It's easy for you to talk big when you're hiding out in Brooklyn."

Jenny smirked. "Well, maybe we should change that. I'll see you guys around."

Jenny shared a smirk with Zaya, walking away.

(Song:) Hero - The Asteroids Galaxy Tour

Zaya looked at the mean girls, smirking smugly, turning around, walking away. She saw Hope about to head back to Alex, walking up to her. "Hey, Hope."

Hope turned to face Zaya. "Zaya. Look, I don't know what I would've done tonight if you, Sadie and Jenny didn't do what you did. And I wouldn't have done what you did, but thank you. I know you were just protecting/avenging, so..."

"Yeah," Zaya agreed. "And one more thing. I feel like I should tell you. Along the lines of trying to protect you. Or at least give you a heads up."

"About?" Hope asked.

"You still need to watch your back with Jenny," Zaya answered. "She likes Alex. Like a real, intense crush because she sees how he is with you and everyone else and she loves that when she needs help, he would help with no question because of you. I know she was jealous of you because of the fact that you're better at her in designing, and you know a lot more than just designs when it comes to fashion. You know everything that comes with the industry, or at least you're building up on it, and that's why this all started. Because she knows that you're going to be better than her, always will be. But it also comes from the fact that she's jealous of what you have with Alex. And she might still be angry deep down. Just thought you should know."

Zaya gave Hope a sympathetic look, walking away.

Hope was left in shock, looking toward Jenny, who was walking away from the party. She looked toward Alex.

X • O ° X • O

Inside

Couples were dancing, kissing.

Wyatt walked up to Dylan. "Hey. You okay? Where you been?"

"Long story," Dylan told him.

Wyatt nodded in agreement. "Yeah, me too. Um... Blair and Chuck both lost the bet, so so did we."

"Forget the bet, Wyatt," Dylan told him. "Lily's leaving Dad for Rufus Humphrey."

Wyatt raised his eyebrows. "What?"

"Yeah," Dylan answered. "So unless you got something bigger than that..."

Wyatt tilted his head. "Well, I wouldn't say bigger. Better, though. Um, when Aurora asked to talk to me, Thyra and Blair earlier... it was tell us that Cyrus is going through with adopting James."

"Really?" Dylan asked.

"Yeah," Wyatt answered. 'But our mom is too."

Dylan realized what this meant, raising his eyebrows in shock. "Eleanor and Cyrus are both adopting James?"

"Yeah," Wyatt answered. "Blair, Thyra and I get a brother. And a step cousin with Carter when Cyrus and Mom get married."

Dylan chuckled. "Well, you were right. It is better."

Wyatt pulled Dylan into a hug. "I know you're sad about Lily leaving Bart even if you don't say it, so you can have the reassurance that at least we're always gonna be together. And you, Brooklyn and Chuck are most likely not gonna lose Noe, Serena and Eric as siblings either."

Dylan chuckled, returning the embrace. "Well, if the marriage is actually divorced, then Noe, Serena and Eric wouldn't be our siblings anymore, but I don't think they'd abandon me, Brooklyn or Chuck. And I'm glad you know you can't get rid of me that easily."

They pulled away.

"And I'm glad you know that us breaking up is out of the question," Wyatt told him.

"And why is that?" Dylan asked.

Wyatt shrugged. "'Cause we're Wyatt and Dylan, you and me, we're like... endgame or something."

Wyatt immediately regretted the word choice, blushing sheepishly.

Dylan smirked in amusement. "Did you seriously just say 'endgame'?"

Wyatt laughed. "It's the first thing that came to my mind."

Dylan laughed lightly. "Well, as cheesy as it was, and it really was, it's true." He pulled Wyatt closer. "And we are totally..." He gave a small eye roll. "Endgame."

Dylan and Wyatt leaned their heads together, smiling.

Wyatt smiled. "You just wanna dance, forget everything for a while?"

"Yeah, I do," Dylan answered.

Dylan and Wyatt took each other by the hands, starting to dance.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Brooklyn was having a drink, looking over the party.

Thyra walked up to Brooklyn. "Hey. There you are."

"Here I am," Brooklyn agreed. "This whole night doesn't feel like it was a date for us."

"I know," Thyra agreed sadly. "I'm sorry."

"Between Zaya needing someone there for her after she saw Lana and her ex, and what she told us..." Brooklyn trailed off. "The scheme Zaya, Sadie and Jenny did. Even if Sadie couldn't be here for the actual scheme."

"Yeah," Thyra agreed.

"Then Aurora taking you away, and Dylan talking to me and Chuck about Lily and Dad might be getting a divorce because Lily's confessed her love for Rufus Humphrey..." Brooklyn trailed off.

Thyra looked at her in surprise. "What? Brooklyn, I..."

"It's okay," Brooklyn told her. "I mean, it's not, because I actually like Lily, and I don't want to give up this stepsister thing to Serena, Noe and Eric, because in some ways, I've been closer to them than to Chuck and Dylan, since Dad liked to find ways to pit us against each other until we realized what he was doing and we started to actually talk and hang out and everything like a year and a half ago..."

Thyra nodded sadly in understanding. "I know. I remember."

"I just don't want this family to break up," Brooklyn admitted.

"Maybe it won't," Thyra told her.

Brooklyn scoffed. "Yeah. Right. Just... just tell me something. Tell me anything that will distract me, all right?"

"Are you sure?" Thyra asked.

"Yeah," Brooklyn answered. "Let's just forget about everything else for a few minutes, and just dance, and you can tell me something that will totally distract me, and we can try and salvage what's left of this date. What do you say, Thyra?"

Thyra smiled, taking Brooklyn by the hand, taking her to the dance floor, so they could dance. "I say hell yeah."

They kissed for a moment.

Brooklyn smirked. "That's my Black Diamond."

Thyra chuckled. "Yeah, well, you've got me hooked, Bass."

They continued to kiss for several moments, before finally pulling away.

Brooklyn smiled. "What are you gonna tell me?"

"Well, this little thing Aurora said about James, Cyrus and Eleanor, and what it means for me, Wyatt and Blair," Thyra answered.

Brooklyn looked at her in confusion, but was curious.

X • O ° X • O

Sideline

Blair was watching Dylan/Wyatt and Brooklyn/Thyra dance and kiss along with the other couples, looking longing for something like that with the one she loved.

Chuck walked closer to stand by Blair's side, also watching Dylan/Wyatt and Brooklyn/Thyra, wanting the same thing. He looked at Blair. "Dance with me."

"What's the point, Chuck?" Blair asked. "We're never gonna be them. Thyra and Wyatt are my little siblings, I'm about to get a new one in James." Chuck frowned in confusion. "And Dylan and Brooklyn are your little brother and sister, and yet, Brooklyn and Thyra, Dylan and Wyatt can work everything out. Yet we can't. We can never be them. You said so, remember? It's not for us."

"Maybe," Chuck agreed. "But I wouldn't change us. Not if it meant losing what we have."

"And what do we have, Chuck?" Blair asked. "You tell me."

"Tonight," Chuck answered. "So shut up... and dance with me."

Chuck smiled, taking Blair by the hand, as Blair smiled and they went to dance together, both smirking slight smiles.

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Lily and Laureen were standing together.

"Have you seen Zaya?" Laureen asked.

"No, why?" Lily asked.

"I think she's been wreaking some mayhem," Laureen answered.

Lily chuckled. "She really is like the way you used to be, isn't she, Laureen?"

"Oh, like you can talk," Laureen replied.

"What about Sadie?" Lily asked. "With you and Zaya here, is Richard..."

"Sadie's with a friend, Lacy," Laureen answered. "Zaya made sure of it. Richard's not a problem, for the night anyway."

Lily nodded in relief. "Good, good." Her phone rang. She pulled it out, seeing that the Caller ID said Restricted, answering. "Hello? Yes, this is Lily Bass."

Lily listened to what was on the other line, reaching out to grab Laureen's arm in shock.

Laureen looked at her in surprise and concern. "What's wrong?"

"I need your help finding Brooklyn, Dylan, Chuck, Noe and Serena, or Zaya," Lily answered. "Laureen, I..."

(Song Ends)

X • O ° X • O

Elsewhere

Dan and Lexi walked down some steps.

"Think maybe we should wait for, uh, James and Serena?" Dan asked.

"I don't know," Lexi admitted. "I thought it might be fun for the two of us to hang out... alone."

Dan chuckled. "Right. Right, alone. You know what? We came with them, so I just... I wouldn't want to be rude. I mean, uh... I don't know, are you hungry? 'Cause I know a great place we could go..." He found Serena and James. "Oh, hey, there they are." They walked over to them. "James, Serena, hey."

"Hey," Serena said.

"Uh, I actually have something really important to talk to Serena about," James admitted. "Do you mind?"

"No," Lexi answered. "No, we don't. We'll grab a cab."

"Thanks," James told them.

Lexi and Dan walked away.

Serena turned to James in confusion. "Hey. What's up?"

"For one, I wanted to apologize for earlier, about how Blair, Thyra and Wyatt took me away," James answered.

"No, no, it's okay," Serena assured. "I mean, they're going to be your family, right?"

James chuckled at the irony. "Uh, yeah. More than we thought possible. Aurora spent most of today before the ball talking to Cyrus and Eleanor. I know that I told you that Cyrus kept saying that he wanted to adopt me to make sure that my parents can't get to me, not after everything they did to me, to Caroline, to Carter."

"Yeah, yeah," Serena agreed. "Yeah, I remember."

"According to Thyra, Wyatt and Blair, who just got done talking to Aurora..." James trailed off. "Cyrus isn't the only one open to the idea of adopting me, Serena." Serena frowned. "Eleanor."

Serena took a second before she realized what he meant. "Oh." The gravity of what he was saying really set in. "Oh!"

James nodded in amusement. "Yeah. 'Oh' about covers it."

"Eleanor's gonna adopt you too?" Serena asked. "You're gonna be..."

"Blair, Wyatt and Thyra's adoptive brother?" James asked. "I think so."

Serena chuckled in shock. "I mean, that's great, isn't it? How do you feel?"

"I mean, on the one hand, I feel so relieved," James answered. "Like I can finally get away from the parents that ruined my life, and my brother and sister's. And the feeling like I'm cutting some tie to them..."

Serena nodded in understanding, concern. "Are you okay?"

Lily walked up to them quickly, bumping into James on accident, interrupting. "I'm sorry, James. Serena, where are Noe, Brooklyn, Dylan and Chuck?"

"I--I don't know," Serena admitted.

"We need to find them," Lily told her. "Laureen's looking for Zaya right now."

"Mom, what's wrong?" Serena asked.

Lily looked incredibly worried. "Bart's been in an accident."

James and Serena both looked at her in shock, not knowing how to react.