#archrey

gossip gays gifset au series | dan x nate

Nate had already seen that Dan was attractive, sure; but Dan posed like this against a bouquet of poppies made him look striking in a way Nate hadn't expected.

So he looks down as he admits the truth, that Dan has been right the whole time, but unexpectedly Dan doesn't smirk or glare like Nate's friends would. Instead he ducks his head with an apologetic smile in return to the one Nate had given to smooth what could have been a passive aggressive barb.

It's nice to share a simple moment, as if they're already friends with inside jokes.

Then Nate hears him speak about literature references with such ease, as if they're facts as simple as sports stats, and he can't help but think his intellect is even more awe inspiring. There's a deep passion for the subject that Dan's failing to conceal as he once again tries to help Nate (who knows he doesn't deserve the kindness).

The "Or not" Dan gives isn't petty like it could have been. Instead the admittedly beautiful boy delivers it with a smile before defeat. The injustice of the situation is too much to bare now, as Nate looks over at the Ivy rep whose approval meant Nate wouldn't have a fight with his father.

Fuck it.

Dan stares intensely for a long pause, like he's trying to decide if it's a trick, but when Nate reassures him he gives an excited smile. Whatever his father says will be worth it.

gossip gays gifset au series | dan x nate

The next time Nate sees Dan Humphrey, (after previously pretending he wasn't visiting to explain to Serena he'd come out to Blair and involved her), things don't get less awkward. Unluckily, Nate once again finds himself in what Dan would see as competition. Then, Nate couldn't explain to the brunette he had no interest in Serena without coming out. Now, he can't explain to Dan that he doesn't even want to go to Dartmouth without pouring salt in a wound.

After dating Blair Waldorf for ten years, Nate is unfazed at the tirade full of personal jabs. He finds himself failing to completely hide a smile instead, which seems to make things worse, but he can't help it if the sight of the usually quietest boy on campus is kinda endearing when angry.

As Dan storms off, Nate tries to ignore small guilt, but unexpectedly he turns around. Generously, he gives the ivy rep's book title, and then continues off. Nate's never seen anything like it... No one he's ever known has been able or willing to stop in the middle of their anger and show kindness to a stranger. A stranger in competition, no less?

Maybe Serena's taste was improving, he thought wryly.