The blast hits at 7:14 a.m.

You’re still half-asleep when your phone vibrates violently on your nightstand. One notification. Then ten. Then too many to count. Your heart sinks before you even open it—because in Manhattan, there’s only one reason people wake up like this.

Spotted: Looks like someone close to SVDW has a past they forgot to erase. Funny how skeletons always resurface when you least expect it. xoxo, Gossip Girl

Your name is there. Twisted. Rearranged. Turned into something ugly and unrecognizable.

By the time you reach school, the damage is already done. People whisper. Some stare openly. Others pretend not to look at all, which somehow hurts worse. You feel like you’re shrinking inside your own skin.

Serena finds you near the lockers.

She doesn’t ask if it’s true.

She doesn’t hesitate.

She just steps in front of you—physically, unmistakably—like she’s blocking a hit meant for you alone.

“That’s a lie,” she says loudly, her voice sharp enough to cut through the hallway. “And anyone spreading it is pathetic.”

Someone scoffs. “Gossip Girl doesn’t lie.”

Serena turns, eyes blazing. “Gossip Girl posts rumors. And this one? It’s garbage.”

She takes your hand and pulls you away, ignoring the stares, the phones, the murmurs. In the courtyard, she finally slows, her grip still tight.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” she asks softly—not accusing, just worried.

“Because it’s not real,” you say, voice shaking. “And now everyone thinks—”

“I don’t,” she interrupts instantly. “I know you.”

At lunch, another blast goes out.

Breaking: Serena van der Woodsen stepping in as defense attorney? Interesting choice of hill to die on. xoxo

Serena laughs, sharp and humorless. She grabs her phone and starts typing—furious, precise.

Within minutes, a new message lights up every screen.

Correction: Sources say today’s rumor has more holes than truth. Maybe check your facts before you come for someone who doesn’t deserve it. xoxo

The room goes quiet.

You stare at her. “You didn’t have to do that.”

She looks at you like the idea is absurd. “Yes, I did.”

Later, on the steps of the Met, the city humming below, you finally breathe again.

“This world eats people alive,” Serena says, leaning her head against your shoulder. “I’ve been there. I won’t let it do that to you.”

Your phone buzzes one last time.

Spotted: Looks like loyalty is back in style. For now. xoxo

Serena squeezes your hand.

“Let her watch,” she says. “I’m not backing down.”