Gossip girl

(Season 1, Episode 13, Part 3)

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Gossip Girl Blast:

"Lies are like glass, fragile until the moment they shatter. And when they do, someone always gets cut. Who's about to bleed? Stay tuned. XOXO, Gossip Girl."

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Aryan's Calculated Move: Securing Nate's Future

Aryan sat in his office at Jain Global Holdings, the city lights sprawling beyond the windows like a kingdom waiting to be conquered. The call from Nate hadn't surprised him—he'd been expecting it.

Nate's voice had been edged with frustration. "My dad's refusing the plea deal. He thinks he can win, but we both know he can't."

Aryan had responded with his usual calm. "Then it's time we make him see reality."

Now, as he leaned back in his chair, he was finalizing his strategy. The Archibald case wasn't just about saving Nate's father—it was about securing Nate's future, ensuring he wouldn't be dragged down by the weight of his family's mistakes.

A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. His assistant stepped in. "Mr. Jain, Howard Archibald's lawyer is on line two. He wants to know if you're willing to be involved in negotiations."

Aryan smirked, picking up the phone. "Put him through."

It was time to control the board.

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Nate's Growing Doubts

Meanwhile, at the Archibald residence, Nate paced his room, phone still in hand.

His father was stubborn. No matter how much logic Nate threw at him, Howard Archibald refused to believe he couldn't win in court.

His mother sat quietly on the edge of the bed, staring at her hands. "Nathaniel, are you sure about Aryan's involvement?"

Nate hesitated. "He's the only one who actually does something. Everyone else just talks."

His mother's gaze lifted. "But at what cost?"

Nate exhaled, frustration building. "He's my friend. He's always had my back."

"But friends don't always play by the same rules," she murmured.

Nate wasn't sure if that was a warning or a reminder.

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Gossip Girl Blast:

"Deals are being made, but what's the price tag? Careful, N—once you owe someone like A, the debt is never truly paid. XOXO."

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Serena and Blair: A Moment of Truth

At the Van der Woodsen penthouse, Serena sat cross-legged on the couch, flipping through an old photo album. Blair sat beside her, pretending to be uninterested but occasionally glancing at the pictures.

"You know," Serena murmured, "things used to be so much simpler."

Blair scoffed. "That's because we were too naive to see the complications."

Serena sighed. "I just feel like… everything is shifting. Aryan, Nate, Chuck—even Dan. It's like no one is standing still anymore."

Blair arched a brow. "That's called growing up, S. You should try it sometime."

Serena shot her a look but then smiled. "Maybe."

Blair hesitated before speaking again. "And Aryan?"

Serena's expression faltered. "I trust him. I do. But sometimes, I wonder if I really know him."

Blair studied her. "You're not afraid of what he's capable of. You're afraid of how much you like it."

Serena didn't answer. But she didn't deny it either.

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Gossip Girl Blast:

"When it comes to love, is it the mystery that draws us in… or the danger? Be careful, S. The closer you get to the fire, the harder it is to pull away. XOXO."

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Chuck's Decision: Playing Both Sides

At The Palace bar, Chuck nursed a glass of bourbon, the ice clinking softly against the sides. Across from him sat Bart Bass, watching him carefully.

"So, you spoke with Thorpe," Bart stated.

Chuck didn't react. "Maybe."

Bart leaned forward. "Charles, this isn't a game. Russell Thorpe wants control of Bass Industries."

Chuck smirked. "And you want me to pretend I don't see the opportunity in that?"

Bart's jaw tightened. "Loyalty matters."

Chuck chuckled. "Loyalty to whom? You? The company? Myself?"

Bart's gaze hardened. "Make sure you know the answer before you choose a side."

As Bart walked away, Chuck exhaled slowly. He already knew his choice.

He was choosing himself.

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Gossip Girl Blast:

"Betrayal, business, and a Bass in the middle. Looks like C is playing the long game. But in the end, will it be checkmate or self-destruction? XOXO."

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Aryan's Last Play of the Night

Back at his penthouse, Aryan poured himself a drink, eyes scanning the documents in front of him. The Archibald case was falling into place. Waldorf Designs was gaining momentum. And Chuck? Chuck was at a crossroads.

Everything was moving the way he wanted.

But then, his phone buzzed.

A message from an unknown number:

"You think you control everything. But even kings can fall. Be careful where you step."

Aryan stared at the screen, his smirk never wavering.

"Let them try," he murmured to himself.

The game wasn't over. It was just getting started.

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Gossip Girl's Final Blast of the Night:

"The pieces are shifting, and not everyone sees the full board. But one thing is certain—when the illusion shatters, not even a king is safe. Sleep tight, Upper East Siders. XOXO."

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[End of Chapter 22]

Next: Chapter 23 – The Game Unfolds (Part 1)