“That was fun. Call you later?”

Can I talk about how much I love this scene?

When a classmate shouts out “Coyote girl,” Devi is visibly uncomfortable. Only Paxton knows the story behind why Devi got so close to the coyote, and how it’s something she worries people would think she’s crazy for in believing it was her dad.

Other people start joining in the cheers, even her friends, but she still seems uncertain whether they are laughing WITH or AT her.

Whether consciously or not, Paxton notices her discomfort, joins her, and actively brings her into the cheers, reassuring her that they are indeed laughing with her. And only then does she relax and smile.

Yes, she is smiling in part because Paxton is touching her…because um, hello, it’s PAXTON.

But I have no doubt she’s also smiling because she’s finally able to enjoy this moment. This moment of acceptance and belonging with her peers, about something that she was feeling insecure about. And about something that has felt socially alienating for her, as she is only remembered for being the girl who was paralyzed after her dad died. Here, her grief, though unknown to others around her, led to a moment of connection and inclusion with her peers. And Paxton helped give her this ❤️ but then steps away, so she can enjoy this moment for herself. He supports her in this moment but not in a way that takes the attention away from her. He just helps her feel good about the attention.

And look how happy our girl is ☺️

(Also, side note, look how good a double date between these two couples would be 😍😄 Here. For. It.)

Other than Paxton, Mohan occupies a huge portion of my NHIE heart !! I am certain we can set aside all our differences for this man. It's what he would want. Also why do the best characters have to be dead ?

I love any scene with Mohan in it, but I want to talk about two scenes: The first is that scene from 2x10 where he appears to her when she falls asleep on her math assignment.

This was a bittersweet moment for me. Paxton is justified in his wariness, but Devi deserves more as well, even if she messed up so many times. And so we are led to Paxton and Devi's momentary breakup.

For some reason, it's so easy to make Paxton look so bad. We've seen so much growth from Paxton only for all of that to be overshadowed by this mistake. It was like we couldn't enjoy how far he has come for a second because we have to deal with another area where he falls short.

However, after rewatching the first season, I was reminded that this wasn't the first time Devi dreamt of Mohan during a time where she questioned herself. And this is the second scene I want to talk about.

Ben's UN comment led to the 1x01 dream scene of fatherly wisdom.

Mohan only comes to Devi in her dreams when her heart is so heavy and ambivalent. Both Paxton and Ben are guilty of this: Ben made Devi so insecure with his UN comment while Paxton’s mixed messages overwhelmed her with confusion about what she needs and deserves.

Perhaps these dream scenes aren't there to make either boy look better by making one look worse. They're not there to declare that neither Paxton nor Ben are good enough for Devi. It certainly isn't to establish any endgame at all. Instead, it is there to remind her to stand up for herself, to fight for what she wants. It was never really about the boys, even if they are explicitly mentioned. These dreams are about Devi and the choices she has to make. That's the ultimate point of these dreams: Before choosing any of these guys, Devi needs to choose herself. Mohan is undoubtedly team Devi.

I have to give credit where credit is due tho: Paxton made things right as soon as he could. Mohan said that what was going on between them wasn't good enough and that she deserved more. And what happened towards the end of the episode ? Paxton stepped up !! Even if his reasons for wanting a private relationship were valid, he came to the dance for her and risked making things public. So Paxton may have done something so conflicting that it warranted a dream visit from Mohan, he did what he could to turn things around immediately. I will always appreciate Paxton's quickness when it comes to making things right.

I also want to sidetrack to another scene. You know when Paxton goes “Who cares what other people think, you do you, Vishwakumar.” It’s not just that it comes from her crush, but it is exactly like something Mohan would say. I think that really goes to her heart. I wonder if part of why Devi has always been drawn to him subconsciously bc of how much he resembles Mohan.

Thanks for sending this!

I totally disagree. I’m gonna assume by “more suitable” they mean they have similar aspirations, personalities and interests. Daxton have a different dynamic and I’d argue a better foundation for a meaningful relationship. 

a) Honesty and trust

Daxton opened up to each other in way they haven’t to others (Mohan’s passing, Paxton’s past and aspirations etc) and hold each other and themselves accountable. They own up to their mistakes, apologise and strive to do better. Their relationship has always been about growth. It started with Devi propositioning Paxton as a distraction from her grief. Throughout the show, Devi’s desperate for a boyfriend, even if it means settling because she’s insecure about being unloveable (“unfuckable”) so she gets what “she deserves.” But in the S2 finale Devi’s honest about her wants and they don’t align with Paxton’s so they break up. She’s maturing and putting herself first, even if it means letting go of a boy she’s had a crush on forever. Paxton processes his emotions and concludes that she’s worth a hypothetical heartbreak. So he chases after her because she’s the only girl he wants.

Them getting together was possible because they’re able to forgive themselves and each other. Daxton don’t hold grudges and grow together. They share similar qualities and values which trumps academic excellence.

b) Romance & friendship

Daxton fancy each other and are willing to take risks and put in the extra effort. They enjoy each other’s company, including how different their personalities are. Devi’s a certified hothead who punches first and asks questions later. She wears her heart on her sleeve and is super endearing. Paxton’s more relaxed but seems to be the brooding type. He has a big heart and is an introvert, bottles up his emotions and ignores people when hurt. He’s charmed by Devi who’s nothing like his existing entourage and he gravitates towards that. She’s bigger than life, silly, smart, caring etc! They’ve both made mistakes but not with the intent of hurting the other and they forgive each other. The duality of Paxton and Devi makes for a relationship that’s strife with novelty and excitement. Who wants to date their carbon-copy? Where’s the variety? The richness?

c) Motivation & support

An obvious example is Devi motivating Paxton to go the extra mile. They push themselves out of their comfort zone by being held accountable and bettering themselves (see a).

They’re not in competition because of different social circles/interests/temperaments which results in there being less friction. You’re not trying to one-up each other (even unknowingly) which makes for a healthier partnership. There’s no constant push-and-pull which gets exhausting fast and someone doesn’t always have to compromise. Devi put her foot down in the finale because she and Paxton had opposite expectations but I feel like with “smaller” differences, she’d be more inclined to give in. She talked about Brown women having to sacrifice more and I see Devi giving in, but not because of that. She’s a loud vibrant kid, the antithesis of traditionally demure Tamil girls. But she had her self-esteem eroded for years at school hence why she desperately wanted any boy to like her. So I’m happy she’s with someone who unconditionally supports of her and cherishes all facets of her. She doesn’t have to cut herself down or act softer to be loved.

d) Having fun

Not to negate what I’ve just said but they’re kids in their first relationship. Let them explore that and enjoy themselves without there being a transformative aspect to it! They have fun together – played video games, candy wrapper talks, banter, make-out sessions etc.They can share their existing hobbies or find new ones together. Even if they don’t share similar hobbies, they’ll listen to the other gush about their interests because they love to see them happy.

Nhie account : "But he still manages to win all out hearts" Paxton : *gives a valid explanation why he doesn't want a public relationship with a girl who cheated on him* Nhie account : "Red flag" Im sorry I love the show and all the characters but the double standards, the constant Paxton troll and over sexualization of just another 16 year old boy aint it chief. Take a look at their previous captions post season 1. All they do is sexualize him or make him a celebrity with no personality even when he's helping her when a coyote bit Devi. It's so fucked up and I hate it there.

F.A.C.T.S

the "im not into PDA" isn't even valid, he apologized and showed up to the dance as her boyfriend

hopefully paxton doesn't get panic attacks again, but if he does, i would love to see soft, nurturing devi !!

Aw anon I feel you, I just unfollowed both the tags too. I've never thought about a new tag but yeah sure we could probably try that. ok so first of all you NEED to follow @daxtonet

For Daxton opinions, metas etc etc :

I've seen all the anti daxton posts too and it triggers me sm I just go back to these blogs and re read their posts they word it so well <33

@deviandpaxton @cupcakesandtv

@teebeornotteebe

@dottable

@paxhyoshida

@tashas-life

@a-lockman5'

@mudbook

@heather-hall

@heycoyotegirl

@childofawoman

@amaryllux

@daydreamingintheimpalax

@justaniche

@dewiidrop

@missfaketan

Fanfictions [I've re read ALL of their fics way too much] @cupcakesandtv (Never Have I ever fallen in love IS A MUST and her new zombie AU is *chef kiss*)

@tashas-life @emmanelsons @infinite-wanders @heycoyotegirl

@mforpaul @forasecondtherewedwon @thistimeofnight

Gifs and Memes : @marrissacooper @whattarush @chasethesun18 @emmanelsons

@callbackup @woulddiefordevi @am0urmaia @dqxton @nikascott

@bellamyblak

@eyedancer7a @dreamybeverly and @astraybrat are our daxton cheer/eaders <33

I just rewatched the ending of s2e2 and I was wondering.. why do you guys think that Zoe thought she was dating Paxton? Do you think she was referring to flirting they did before Devi and Paxton started dating? (in the two timing period). Or did he actually hook up or something while he was with Devi? Though I don’t think he’d be that hurt about her cheating if he had done the same. And I don’t think Trent and his friends would’ve been so Anti Devi in the finale if they had known that Paxton was flirting with Zoe during his relationship. Also I feel like Zoe would have definitely mentioned it in the “You got played by dorks; she cheated on you with that young Sheldon looking dude” scene. I don’t know though, I‘m conflicted.

The convo actually starts as Shira asking if it was true if Zoe was dating Paxton, not Zoe telling them she is, so I don't believe she thinks it at all. Zoe's reply is "What who me? No."

Then (blanking on her name sorry) says "Oh my god. She definitely is!" to which Zoe just plays along.

This conversation parallels when Fab and El assume Devi managed to sleep with Paxton and she let them believe it as they wanted it so bad for her, and she doesn't deny it.

Paxton was openly flirty with Devi in s2 e2. Which I find a contrast to when Zoe x Paxton interact in s1. Zoe usually has him pinned up against a wall. His body language always read as being polite and accepting the attention from her, but never openly reciprocating the way he does with Devi.

i was actually ready to jump the gun and defend paxton, but i didn't have evidence. so thank you all for giving me a reason to rewatch season 2 !!!

i do want to mention this tho: paxton was just the type to receive the attention from girls. and he simply doesn't turn them away out of politeness or whatever.

it's interesting to see that this guy that has been labeled to be a player (or worse) hasn't really been shown to pull any moves ? don't those type of guys usually do certain moves and play certain emotional games with girls to get their attention ? i just rewatched season 1 and all we really saw from that was zoe against paxton on a wall once in trent's party, then again in school. and i recall from season 2 that paxton would just look up from his sbarro pizza and bAm ! 6 girls at his table. just like he never had to try with academics, he never had to try with girls because he could get them to fall so easily that they pull the first move i guess ? he doesn't even have to try with dates because the girls he usually takes out probably just put up with it because he's the paxton hall-yoshida. devi must be the first girl to ask more of him and pushed him to step up his romantic game, just like his academic career.

anyway, i'm getting on a tangent here. the point is i don't think paxton would do that to a girl he liked, especially to devi. at the end of season 1, we slowly see him start to initiate seeing her, instead of devi having to approach him. devi is unlike any girl paxton's ever been with, and paxton is so very intrigued and invested in her that i don't think he's even considering looking at any other girl.

B*n coined “UN”, repeatedly degraded and antagonised Devi, called her paralysis fake, was racist, didn’t help her in his own house and went to make out with Shira instead, tried to kiss Devi after she rejected him, was nice to her only after realising he likes her in S1. He put himself and Devi in danger by driving when he doesn’t know how to, call an Uber or something. It was nice of him to open his massive empty home to Devi and help mend her friendships though.

In S2, he publicly mocked Devi every chance he got, enjoyed humiliating her, egged her to permanently alter her body to “teach her a lesson” (how is that not a huge red flag??), almost cheated on a girlfriend again. 

In S1, Paxton saved Devi twice, cheered her up at Ganesh Puja, didn’t tell on her when she lied about them having sex to not ruin her reputation, complimented her looks, went to Devi’s house to make amends at the risk of seeing Nalini etc. He didn’t know Devi’s home situation because he was avoiding her and isn’t psychic.

I agree S2 Paxton could have behaved better. But he’s a hurt kid and is allowed to act out, you can’t expect him to be a saint when no one else was. His reasoning was flawed when he thought Devi owed him because he can no longer go to uni for swimming after being publicly cheated on and getting hit by a car. So he feels she’s responsible for this mess and goes about it the wrong way. But he does come around and works for his grades.

Him taking his friends on his dates is a weird concept but he explained that’s how his previous hook-ups went and it’s obvious he doesn’t have dating experience. So it makes sense that he hugs Devi and Trent, doesn’t mean he’s “hiding” her just that he doesn’t know how to act. Paxton was seen walking alone with Devi, wanted to go to her soirée as his date, invited her to his swim meet – he’s publicly invested in them. Not knowing dating moeurs isn’t wilfully hurtful. Once pointed out, he acknowledged his ignorance and strived to do better.

Paxton said he wasn’t embarrassed of being with Devi but he wanted to save face after being publicly humiliated. He’s also more guarded by nature because he’s been betrayed in the past. It makes sense (and Devi thought so too) but I didn’t love it. The show drastically undermined his reasoning too. Paxton wasn’t embarrassed of Devi before, including when they were dating in S2 ep 1 or throughout S1, why is he now? Feels like a cheap drama-inducing trope so I’m happy he pulls himself together and takes Devi to prom. I want him to apologise for some of the stuff he’s done regardless.

This is probably the last time I’ll answer an ask like this because it was never about having an honest chat, just holding both boys to wildly different standards when they were in the exact same predicament.

There’s tons of nuanced analyses of Paxton’s actions and motives by pro-Paxton bloggers. We were the first ones to criticise Paxton but suddenly you can’t read.

Thanks so much for the kind words! :)

That's a really good question honestly, and I have some thoughts, lol!

I absolutely think Devi would feel fulfilled in a relationship with Paxton and here's why. He sees *her*. There's no one more accepting of Devi and all her quirks and facets than Paxton. Not Nalini, not Eleanor, not Fabiola. They love her, of course but they don't necessarily get everything about her. And let's not even talk about Ben, puhlease!!!! Being academic peers doesn't mean Ben gets her.

I think it's important to realize that we all need different things at different seasons of our lives. In high school, and for Devi particularly, it's about being accepted and embraced in the fullness of who she is. And there's no one who accepts Devi as fully as Paxton does. Not even Nalini, or Eleanor or Fabiola. They love her of course, but they don't necessarily get everything about her. Paxton He might call her out on her bs when she needs it and he might not love all her actions in the heat of the moment but there's no judgement from him. And Devi is open with him. As he is with her. They actually explain things to one another, which I really enjoy. Their misunderstandings don't drag on. And it's because intrinsically, they know they can be accepted by the other. It's why Paxton goes back to her even though she screwed up by playing him the first time. And it's why Devi opens up to him, sometimes even without realizing how much she's revealing. That's a big, big thing to have and they have it. Effortlessly.

Can we just bask in the yummy goodness that is Paxton Hall-Yoshida?? He is my absolute hands down favourite character on the show and I like how they are slowly but surely fleshing his narrative out. Listing my 5 favourite things about the one and only Paxton H.Y -

1. His kindness

My golly Paxton is so kind. He really is. He is compassionate, he is thoughtful, he's generous with his assistance. We've talked ad nauseum of the many instances he's been there for Devi and how protective he is with his sister and we love him for all that. But Paxton is a jock who's not mean. He's uber popular and could probably revert to the stereotype of picking on kids less popular than him, bullying people, being cold aloof and super arrogant thanks to the status his popularity affords him. But he's not that guy. He seems well liked because he's considerate and compassionate and decent to his peers. Him jogging over to help Devi when he barely knew her suggests this is a guy who feels real, instinctive sympathy/empathy and is moved to help. How wonderful is that?

2. His cool.

And I don't mean swag or status. Paxton is probably the most composed main character on the show. Tantrum, strops, bursts of anger are not his thing. And I love that about him. At that age, I honestly don't know how many boys I knew (or myself for that matter) who was so... chill. He gets irritated and he definitely gets annoyed but throwing things, yelling, being malicious snarky is so far removed from who he is. Even when he's being provoked (Eleanor), attacked (Nalini) or snapped at (Devi). He doesn't try to get the last word. I really like that about him.

3.His family.

I love what we've seen of the Hall-Yoshidas. They are definitely NOT what I expected. They're a quirky bunch for sure, and I can clearly see where Paxton gets his compassion from. From his dad to his mom to his Ojichan to Rebecca, they're all likeable, warm personalities. It's great that they aren't obsessed with academics and forcing Paxton to be some super achiever, could they be more firm that he does well in school, yes they could. Some people need that extra push to really attain their potential and Paxton clearly feels like he needs his people to believe in him more. But they're a warm, generous, loving family and I'm glad to see that for Paxton.

4. His talent

I love that Paxton is a swimmer. And that he is incredibly good at it. Swimming is such a hard sport that requires a ton of discipline, patience and self drive and I think it tells us a lot about who Paxton is. Swimming can also be quite a lonely sport and you need to be okay with being alone for for a good deal of time. The competitive swimmers I know in real life are a fascinating bunch. They tend to be deep thinkers, with a pretty clear idea of their place in the world, something about being in the water just illuminates things for them I guess, lol. Paxton does have a certain self assurance that could be as a result of his sport. I also really like that Paxton seems to enjoy swimming, that he's not just good at it but it's something he likes doing and is disciplined about. It might have been his sole ticket to college but with the way things have panned out, he may not even need the swimming scholarships to go to college. The scholarships would just be a bonus. (I do still believe he will get one!)

5. His looks.