Disclaimer: I don't own Shadowhunters. That privilege belongs to CC
Credits: G-Eazy & Halsey for the song lyrics used in this chapter.
AN: Here's the chapter you've all been waiting for. There is actually a lot happening in this chapter which is why it's taken a while to put together. It's been my favourite chapter to write so far. I hope you enjoy ;-P
Thanks: to my Clace queens (you know who you are) for always supporting me.
Chapter 10 - Le Lustre En Os
"Please, by all means, don't stop on my account." Jonathan's smirk was more than a little suggestive as he leered at both of them in the doorway.
Clary rolled her eyes getting up and wiping her sweat with her sleeve. "You know you could try not turning everything dirty once in a while. We were just sparring."
Jonathan chuckled sarcastically. "If that's what sparring looks like, I might as well record it and sell it for profit. We could make a fortune."
Clary was less than amused, but didn't seem to take him seriously. "Sure, while we're at it we can sell your many editions of brooding brother. Some people just eat that up you know."
Jonathan feigned insult before shrugging and walking through the room, dropping a garment bag on the table, stopping to lean over on the table. "As you wish sister. Anyway, the arrangements are all made. We'll portal to Prague tonight."
Clary looked excited and smiled widely at Jace who looked confused. "Prague? What's in Prague?" Jace asked.
"Oh right, I was supposed to tell you!" Clary exclaimed. "We're going to a club tonight in Prague. The Bone Chandelier." She grasped both his hands playfully dancing on the spot. "Music, dancing, sounds like a lot of fun."
Jace was still confused. "A club? As in just… a night out?"
"Don't tell the owners of The Bone Chandelier that." Jonathan scoffed playfully. "They're very proud of their establishment."
"So we're going to meet the owners of a club?" Jace prodded. This didn't make sense, Jonathan definitely did not seem like the type of person who went clubbing for fun.
"No I'm going to meet with the owner. You two are going to do what all other people do in clubs. I assume you know what that is." Jonathan tilted his head to the side blinking his eyes deliberately as if he were speaking down to a child, not leaving the topic open for discussion.
It irked Jace but not enough for him to justify a response. "What time are we leaving?" Clary asked, breaking through the awkward air of hostility between them.
"Around 10. Don't wanna get there too early before the fun starts." Jonathan grinned like a child holding a secret and obviously flaunting it.
Jace knew what he was doing, daring him follow, to try and expose him, begging for an excuse to try blow his cover. Jace kept his expression even not betraying anything. No he would not give Jonathan any ammunition. "Sounds good to me." He stated as pleasantly as he could muster. Jonathan seemed to take it for now, but Jace didn't miss the slight narrowing of his eyes.
"Oh and I picked something up for you to wear tonight." Jonathan continued, ignoring him to speak to Clary, gesturing to the bag on the table. "I doubt anything in Valentine's creepy Jocelyn closet will be suitable for tonight."
"Creepy Jocelyn closet?" Jace asked reality dawning on him as Jonathan gave him a knowing look. "Oh…"
Jonathan poured himself a dram of whisky before sitting down on one of the lounge chairs. "Yes, amongst other things, our father was quite delusional… or hopeful I suppose depending on your perspective… he never quite gave up hope that Jocelyn would return to him."
The thought was more disturbing than Jace had time to process in the moment. Valentine was always a fanatic, but Jace had never really stopped to consider that maybe underneath it all, part of him still believed against all odds that Jocelyn would come back to him one day. For the first time ever he almost felt sorry for him. Almost.
"Speaking of creepy." Clary spoke up. Jace and Jonathan looked over to see her holding up a little black dress so skimpy it would make Izzy proud.
Jonathan shrugged nonchalantly. "Problem?"
"Yeah, uh this could be a shirt." Clary stated raising her eyebrows questioning.
Jonathan swung his legs over the side of the chair relaxing. "Sister dear did you learn nothing from Isobel? We're going to a downworlder's club, this is exactly what you need to wear to fit in."
Clary took a deep breath letting it out slowly, trying to vent her frustration. "Kind of hard to fit in when literally all of me is exposed." She challenged gesturing to runes on her arms. Jonathan simply tilted his head to the side giving her the same look he'd given Jace earlier, like she was a child too simple to understand the complexities of whatever he was up to. Clary held his eyes for a moment before strangely calming down in a way that didn't seem like her at all. Jace made a mental note, unsure what to make of it just yet. "Fine…" Clary finally muttered slightly begrudgingly. "I'm assuming the boots are to go with it?"
Jonathan just smiled raising his glass knowingly as Clary grabbed the bag heading off toward her room, still slightly annoyed. Jace started after her, not keen to spend quality time with Jonathan just as he spoke up. "Don't even try to pretend you're not gonna love the sight of her in that dress." He challenged.
Jace stopped, turning to meet Jonathan's smug expression refusing to take the bate. "You know Clary's right." He stated flashing a small knowing grin. "A dress like that coming from you? Definitely creepy."
Jonathan looked almost angry for a moment before reigning it in and turning back around sipping his whisky quietly. Well tonight should be interesting. Jace thought, smiling smugly as he turned around to go find Clary.
Alec's eyes drifted open slowly to light filtering through the small opening in the curtains. He sighed deeply rolling over to wrap his arm around Magnus, disappointment filling him as his hands met cold sheets. He sat up rubbing the sleep out of his eyes and got up, retrieving his briefs from across the room where Magnus had tossed them the night before smiling at the memories. Magnus may not have his magic right now but he certainly had other skills that remained the same much to Alec's delight. He pulled on his pants as well just in case of company and made his way into the kitchen where Magnus was busy making breakfast.
Alec leaned against the doorframe watching him work in nothing but his boxers and a silk robe flowing freely as he moved around the kitchen in his dance-like manner. Magnus' face lit up slightly when he saw Alec but his smile didn't quite meet his eyes. It seemed like that was the case most of the time since he'd given up his magic. "Oh, good morning Alexander." He greeted him, trying to project enthusiasm Alec was certain he did not completely feel.
"Morning." Alec greeted him, stepping close and letting his hand brush over his hip as he reached to pour himself a coffee from the freshly brewed pot. "Hmmmm…" Alec moaned lightly as the coffee slowly brought his senses back to life. "Remind me not to have that one last cocktail next time." He muttered low still feeling slightly woozy.
Magnus chuckled lightly. "You're the one who said you couldn't possibly resist." He pointed out and Alec groaned in regret before taking another sip of coffee.
"Yeah well… clearly I don't always know what's best for me." Alec quipped. Magnus chuckled lightly. "Mmm that smells incredible." Alec commented starting to feel awake enough to truly appreciate the aromas floating around the kitchen.
Magnus raised one eyebrow suggestively as he flipped a pancake. "Lucky for you my culinary skills have nothing to do with magic."
Alec nodded a pang of guilt passing through him. Magnus was an optimist, but he could sense the heaviness behind his demeanour. "Do you want any help?" He offered.
Magnus chuckled incredulously. "I think I can mange." He remarked, poking fun at Alec's lack of culinary skills. "Take a seat."
Alec ignored the playful jab as he dragged himself to the table. Magnus finished cooking and placed everything in front of them. Bacon, pancakes, fresh berries, butter and maple syrup. "This is amazing." Alec remarked after taking a few bites.
Magnus smiled in satisfaction as he sipped on his coffee trying to remain nonchalant. They ate in relatively comfortable silence, but there was a tension brewing bellow the surface neither one of them was willing to address in the moment. Alec was still getting used to having someone around that he looked forward to waking up with, not particularly being a morning person himself. "Thank you for breakfast." Alec said as he finished up. "I appreciate it a lot."
"My pleasure." Magnus responded. His expression was comfortable but his eyes betrayed a sadness bellow the surface. Alec felt more than a little guilty, but he still wasn't sure if or when he should speak up. The truth was there was a part of him that was happy when Magnus lost his magic, a small broken part of him that selfishly realised it would mean they might be able to have a normal life together. Alec shook the thoughts away. If Magnus was seriously struggling he would tell him. Until then Alec resolved to let him be, not wanting rub it in.
"Another busy day today?" Magnus asked as he started cleaning up.
Alec tried to help, picking up his dishes, but Magnus took them shooing him away from the sink. "Yeah, a bit. New York is quiet for now, but…" He stopped not sure how much he should say.
"But?" Magnus prodded filling up the sink.
Alec sighed leaning on the counter. "Ahh… nothing, it's nothing."
"Doesn't sound like nothing." Magnus responded, obviously not believing him.
Alec knew he was terrible at lying when it came to him, especially when he didn't actually want to keep anything from him. "Okay… yeah it's not nothing, I'm just not exactly sure what it is yet."
Magnus turned off the water and faced him leaning against the sink, his face pensive. "I know you can't always tell me absolutely everything and I do understand, but if you need to talk…" He raised his eyebrows suggestively.
Alec smiled lightly in response. It wasn't that he didn't want Magnus to know, he just wasn't sure how much he should say after his conversation with Jia the night before. The Clave was being deliberately evasive, but he wasn't sure what to make of it yet. On the other hand he knew this was a sore subject between them. It wasn't the first time the mortal cup had gone missing. He considered coming clean right then and there, but his phone buzzed. He retrieved it from his pocket to see an urgent alert from Izzy. "Crap." He cursed. "Sorry I've gotta go." He stepped close to Magnus wrapping his arms around his waist. "I promised when I need to tell you I will…" He answered Magnus' unspoken questions. "…it's just right now I need to go."
Magnus nodded in understanding, letting his hands rest on Alec's chest. Magnus wasn't stupid. Alec knew he would have to explain it all later, but for now Magnus was giving him a pass. "Okay. Off you go then soldier."
Alec pulled him in for lingering kiss trying to put as much promise into it as he could. Magnus' hand slid to the side of his face holding his gaze firmly for a moment as they parted. "I'll call you later." Alec promised, not at all wanting to leave. Sometimes he hated being head of the institute.
Magnus leaned in again in response kissing him harder before pulling back leaving him noticeably flustered. "Okay." He acknowledged before abruptly breaking contact and going back to clean up, smirking in amusement, knowing exactly what he'd just done.
Alec groaned frustration as he went retrieve the rest of his clothes, swinging by the kitchen one last time before leaving. "Love you." He muttered in Magnus ear, holding his shoulders lightly from behind enjoying one last moment of contact.
"I love you too." Magnus responded leaning back into his chest.
Alec placed a final kiss to his neck just bellow his ear and reluctantly shifted to leave. He paused momentarily by the door watching Magnus and smiling fondly before going on his way. He needed to keep reminding himself how lucky he was. He remembered his double life, so afraid everyday of blowing up his entire world with even one tiny slip, never believing for a second that he would ever find the kind of happiness he craved. It was Magnus who had made him brave enough to finally stand up for himself. It was Magnus who had made him realise that there was nothing wrong with who he was. His bravery had inspired him to be strong and to finally take a risk and somehow the biggest risk he'd ever taken had become his greatest source of strength. And now that they had a real chance of a normal life together…
Alec shook his head feeling suddenly flushed, those damn flutters in his chest making him feel like a young fool. He wasn't sure exactly where Magnus' head was at right now, but he couldn't stop thinking that the words until death suddenly held more meaning than he'd ever considered before.
Jace's jaw nearly dropped to the floor when Clary stepped out of the bathroom. They'd spent most of the afternoon and evening dosing in each other's arms after cleaning up from their sparring earlier. It felt like a rare luxury to be able rest and simply enjoy being close to each other after everything they'd been through.
Looking at her now his head was full of thoughts so filthy he wouldn't dare utter them out loud. The dress was low cut with a thin halter strap, nearly sheer black fabric that splayed out slightly from her hips and left almost all of her legs bare. She caught the look in his eyes and twirled around giving him the full view teasing him. The back was also low cut leaving a large portion of her back bare, a thin strap across the back holding it together. He couldn't help but admire her figure and the way the knee high leather boots made her legs appear taller and accentuated her delicate curves.
She stepped closer to him, her curly hair hanging loose around her shoulders like wild fire against her perfect skin. "What do you think?" She asked, her usual shyness about her body replaced by confidence.
Jace's smirk grew into a wide grin as he openly stared her up and down wishing for a moment that he'd left extra time before they had to leave. "Izzy would be proud." He stated stepping closer and placing his hands on her hips.
Clary laughed wrapping har arms around his neck. "I'm sure she would be." She agreed laughing lightly before sliding her hands to his chest in admiration, eyeing him up and down briefly. "You look…" She paused trying to find the right words.
"I know, I'm stunningly attractive." He quipped before she could finish, a lopsided grin crossing his face.
Clary rolled her eyes laughing lightly. She couldn't deny how good he looked in a suit, but she refused to pander to his ego. "And so modest." She jested slapping his chest lightly before wrapping her arms around his neck again as her face fell slightly. "Have you spoken to Izzy since you left?"
Jace eyed her softly. He knew she was missing everyone as much as she tried to pretend she wasn't. "I told them I needed time. I'm checking in with Alec just so he knows I'm safe. He'll talk to Izzy I'm sure."
Clary stroked the side of his neck in understanding. "Okay… but you should stay in touch Jace. I don't want you giving up everything for me."
Jace leaned in kissing her forehead softly giving her hips a gentle squeeze. "I'm not giving everything up, I'm just being cautious. If the Clave knew you were alive…" He trailed off, not wanting to think about it.
Clary tilted her head back meeting his gaze. "Do you think they would ever consider a pardon?"
Jace grimaced. "I don't think so." He stated angrily. "It ridiculous if you ask me…" He paused for a moment before continuing. "They like to hide behind their front of duty and honour like none of them would've done the same thing… but they would have… if it came down to any one of them losing someone they loved or using the wish I guarantee most of them would have made the same choice you did…" He sighed trying to release the anger.
"Well I guess that means I can't come back any time soon…" Clary grimaced a little sadly. "What will you do?"
Jace caressed her hips lightly with his thumbs. "I'm not leaving you if that's what you're asking."
Clary tilted her head to one side quizzically. "I appreciate that, but you can't just disappear and never come back."
Jace considered her carefully. He knew when he left that there was a chance he might not be able to come back any time soon if at all. He just hadn't figured out how to deal with it yet. "If it comes to that we'll deal with it." He stated simply. "As I said, I'm not gonna leave you. Not now, not ever." Clary dropped her gaze a little shyly and Jace placed his fingers under her chin lifting her head up again. "Hey…" He whispered gently. "I love you." They held each other's gaze for a moment before he leaned in meeting her lips in a brief but passionate kiss that left them both wanting more. "Shall we?" He whispered his forehead pressed to hers.
Clary used all of her self restraint to back off from him, trying to steady her heartbeat. "Let's go." She agreed before and grabbing his hand and leading the way.
Alec spotted Izzy on the way to his office and motioned for her to follow him. "Tell me." He commanded keeping his voice level as they walked side by side.
"I think we should wait until we're in your office." She stated keeping a neutral face on, her voice low and not quite as calm as she looked.
Alec nodded as they walked quickly and closed to the door behind him as they entered his office. "Okay tell me, what's going on?" He asked insistently.
"Before I tell you, have you heard from the Clave?" Izzy asked.
Alec took a seat on the edge of his desk gripping the edges tightly. "I was going to tell you today." He started unable to keep the edge from his voice. "I spoke with Jia and raised our concerns about the cup. She didn't confirm anything outright, but she was definitely evasive."
Izzy raised her eyebrows crossing her arms. "So you think they've actually lost it?"
Alec gave her knowing look. "I think so, but they're never going to admit it unless they want our help. Anyway, what's your news? You said it was urgent?"
Izzy held out the tablet to him. "There's been more reports from the Paris institute. Shadowhunters going missing from patrol. I almost missed it the last time I checked in with them, but it's becoming a problem and the Clave doesn't seem to be taking it seriously, at least not yet."
Alec felt a sinking sense as he read through the reports. "20 in the last month?…" He worried aloud. "Have they found any of them?"
Izzy shook her head. "According to the reports they've just vanished without a trace. No signs of a struggle in or around the institute, they just haven't come back from patrol."
Alec stood placing the tablet on his desk pacing back and forth. "And the Clave really isn't taking this seriously?" Izzy shook her head. "Have they investigated the areas they were patrolling?"
"Not that they've reported, I might have to looking further." Izzy confirmed and then sighed deeply. "I think we need to send someone to help investigate Alec. First the demon activity and now this?" Alec stopped pacing meeting her gaze seriously an unspoken agreement between them. Something was definitely not right about this whole situation.
"I think you're right." He acknowledged. "I'll contact Elodie Verlac and offer our assistance. In the meantime, I want you to prepare yourself to leave and contact Magnus. I want both of you on this but keep it hush. I don't want this spreading around the Institute yet."
Izzy raised her eyebrows in surprise. "You want me and Magnus to go? Isn't he still recovering?"
Alec cursed to himself. It was still strange to think of Magnus without his magic. "Right, yes of course. Call Katarina as well, you'll need someone to portal you in and out." Alec ran his hands over his face tiredly.
Izzy stepped closer squeezing his should gently. "Hey, are you okay?"
Alec nodded taking a deep breath. "Yeah, I'm fine, everything's just a bit… anyway… Magnus is going through a lot, but I think it would be good for him to get out, do something to take his mind of things."
Izzy smiled sympathetically. "It must so difficult for him. Has he been able to recover any of his magic?"
Alec shook his head. "He's been looking for a way to get it back, but… I doubt he's willing to go see Asmodeus again…" Alec sighed. "Either way I need my best investigators to check this out."
Izzy nodded standing tall. "Okay. I'll contact Magnus and Katarina. How long do you want us there for?"
Alec looked thoughtful for a moment and then answered. "I want you in and out as quick as possible. We might need to play it by ear though. I'll make sure Elodie knows about Magnus and Katarina incase of any bias."
"Okay. I'll get everything ready. Let me know when everything's prepared."
Alec grimaced as Izzy left and examined the reports again. "I've got a bad feeling about this." He muttered to himself. He couldn't see anything more in the reports. There was no logical connection between any of missing people aside from them all being shadowhunters. So far they had nothing. Alec sighed and picked up his phone looking at Jace's last message again debating how long he could keep him out of this, hating himself for the thought. He knew Jace needed time, but it was more than that. Jace had been withdrawn and unstable since losing Clary and Alec was afraid if he sent him back into combat too soon he would do something stupid and get himself killed. No, he couldn't call him back yet.
Things had been quiet in New York since Lilith had disappeared, presumed dead, but these reports from Paris were more than a little unsettling. Part of him wished he could go with Izzy but he couldn't shake the feeling that he needed to stay in New York. He couldn't explain it other than a sense of dread that seemed to be growing day by day. Alec dialled the Paris institute taking a deep breath bracing himself for another difficult conversation.
"So why do they call it the bone chandelier club?" Jace asked as they waited in line observing the colourful characters waiting to get in.
Jonathan smirked next to them. "Why do you think?"
Clary rolled her eyes. "Just tell him Jonathan." She quipped slightly amused.
Jonathan glanced at Clary and then ahead again nonchalant. "Fine. The chandeliers are made of bones, specifically shadowhunter bones from a time when hunting shadowhunters was still seen a sport for a lot of downworlders."
"And you thought bringing us here was a good idea why exactly?" Jaces asked slightly alarmed, holding Clary just a little bit tighter to himself.
"Oh don't worry, they only kill shadowhunters every second week now…" Jonathan retorted flatly. "Granted I'm not sure which week this is but we should be fine."
Jace met Jonathan's gaze both of them refusing to blink for a moment. It was an obvious joke, but Jace still couldn't help but feeling slightly nervous with Clary by his side.
"Just try not to piss anybody off and you'll be fine." Jonathan smirked menacingly. "Shadowhunters are not especially welcome here, which is why you need me." Jonathan met Jace's steely gaze again smugly flashing his black eyes for a moment. "I'll vouch for both of you and they'll leave you alone… provided you don't cause any trouble that is."
Clary met Jace's gaze and smiled mischievously. "I think we can manage that." She squeezed her hand on his hip gently and Jace rolled his eyes. Seeing her casual attitude put him a little at ease, but he resolved to keep his guard up. Downworlder clubs were notorious for all kinds of mischief.
Jonathan walked ahead as they nearer the front of the line and Jace watched closely as he greeted the bouncer, shaking his hand and talking briefly. Jonathan gestured to him and Clary continuing to speak. The bouncer laughed for a moment eyeing them up and down amusedly before clapping Jonathan on the shoulder and ushering them forward.
"Well I guess demon blood has it's advantages." Jace muttered as they stepped forward.
Clary slapped his ass playfully earning a chuckle and they nodded respectfully to the bouncer as they followed Jonathan inside.
The club was large and dark on the inside illuminated by silvery white lighting cascading from the ceiling. A bar was situated on one side of the crowded dance floor while the other side housed several curtained off booths elevated by stairs. The curtains didn't entirely hide the inside of the booths where the shadowed figures of numerous couples and groups brazenly displayed their exploits. The entire establishment screamed of debauchery and hedonism and for a moment Jace grinned amusedly. He was no stranger to these kind of places, but having Clary here was different. He wasn't sure how she would react, but when he met her gaze as they made their way through the crowd she only looked intrigued and excited.
When they got to the bar Jonathan ordered a shot of something purple downing it quickly before standing back to the bar staring out at the crowd. Jace knew a lot of the house made mixes involved more than alcohol and often contained spells that could be not so pleasant for those without demon blood, so he ordered two shots of vodka as he reminded Clary of the time Simon was turned into a rat to explain why he wasn't keen to try the house blends. Clary cringed at the memory and shotted the vodka smoothly before looking out at the crowd. The floor was mostly full as they approached a railing letting themselves become accustomed to the venue and the people.
"It's almost time!" Jonathan yelled over the music.
"Time for what?" Clary asked curious.
Jonathan raised his eyebrows in amusement. "You'll see."
Jace met Clary's confused gaze just as a giant flash of light illuminated the venue followed by trickles of what looked like rain falling from the ceiling. Jace watched as people raised their heads opening their mouths to swallow the drops and realised as he focused more clearly that the liquid was silvery and thick in texture, typical of Seelie drugs, most likely a hallucinogen of some sort. Before he could react Jonathan raised his head swallowing a couple drops, followed closely by Clary to his alarm. He looked at them both shocked as they looked at him expectantly. "I'm fine." Jace shook his head in refusal and Jonathan rolled his eyes before stepping between him and Clary as she started gently moving to the music.
"What the matter Jace?" Jonathan taunted. "Scared of a good time?" He stood a little too close for comfort waiting to see what Jace would do.
I am so gonna regret this. Jace thought before answering "Fuck it" and lifting his head to swallow a drop.
Jonathan seemed pleased as he walked away leaning down to Clary's ear to tell her something before walking away into the crowd.
"He's going to speak to someone!" Clary called out as she slipped closer to Jace taking his hands in hers.
Jace nodded as a kind of lightness started to fill his senses. "You know these Seelie drugs can be unpredictable!" He said as she started trying to tug him toward the dance floor.
She pulled him flush against her tugging his head down to speak into his ear. "Then we should probably stay as close as possible." She said, her voice heavy with suggestion.
He pulled back grinning from ear to ear as she turned keeping her hand tightly woven with his as she lead the way to the dance floor.
The music surrounded him unlike any sensation he'd experienced other than the euphoria of the battle state, the feeling when everything else fell away and his movements became as automatic as breathing. Every colour, sound and touch seemed to become more vibrant, the room alive with light scattering over the bodies moving like a sea rolling and rippling, as if time had slowed, every detail standing out almost overwhelming in intensity.
And then there was Clary, a sight that consumed him all at once. Her red curls flowed freely as if on fire as she moved offset by her pale skin against her shimmering black dress. Her skin seemed to glow under the flashing lights almost luminescent as if she was made of moonlight. She took his hands in hers drawing him across the crowded dance floor. Light seemed to ripple and vibrate across their skin as she drew him close, sliding her hands up his torso to his chest, placing one hand on the side of his neck, her green eyes drawing him in. Everything but Clary fell away as they danced, bodies pressed together, moving as one, eyes meeting for a moment before they kissed slowly, passionately. His hand slid over her bare back as hers moved to his ass pulling him closer. His breath started coming harder as he kissed her, overwhelmed by the taste and the feeling of her. And then the music changed and Clary backed off from his embrace smiling sultry as she motioned with her finger to follow her.
He followed eagerly, taking her hand as she lead them off the dance floor, up the stairs to one of the curtained off private booths to the side, slipping through the dark curtains into the dimly lit space. Black leather benches lined the walls illuminated by two wall lamps either side of the space set against dark red walls, like a sex dungeon Jace thinks to himself smirking a little. Clary let his hand go moving to sit in the middle of the bench against the wall facing the curtains and faced him. She crossed one leg over the other, leaning to the side on one hand and sliding the other over her leg to the hem of her dress toying with it seductively. He gazed over her, taking in the sight of her, the way the low cut accentuated her beautiful small frame perfectly without revealing too much. Her skin was speckled lightly in some of the Seelie drops from the dance floor and Jace was momentarily struck by an urge to kiss each drop from her skin although he was somewhat aware that this was probably a bad idea considering how high he already was.
Jace's heart raced into a gallop as he watched her inviting him in, very aware as he'd observed earlier, that the curtains did not completely block all of the view from inside the booths. For a moment he decided he didn't care, ready to bend to her every wish, he stepped closer kneeling in front of her taking her free hand in his and placed the gentlest of kisses to the inside of her wrist, lingering for a moment before meeting her gaze full of lust and excitement. He took her hand, placing it on the side of his face as he reached behind her head leaning in and claiming her mouth passionately.
She was quick to respond, running her fingers through his hair as she pressed herself closer to him, untangling her legs and spreading them just enough to pull him closer between them. A feeling of euphoria washed over him, something more than just the drugs as he found her moving her hips against his, enjoying the way her breath hitched at the contact. He slid his tongue gently to meet hers, opening his mouth as she kissed him hungrily, like she had been starving in the desert and he was her only sustenance. She wrapped one of her legs around him as she rubbed herself against him, tearing a deep moan from him that vibrated through them both as his hands slid under her dress. He was surprised and delighted to discover her choice of skimpy underwear as he gripped her bare ass, roughly pulling her closer as he ground against her, breathing hard against her mouth as she slipped her hand to his pants pulling out his shirt so she could slide her hands over the bare skin of his lower back. She dug her nails in hard, earning a loud groan from him as they continued moving against each other, all reservations gone.
In a flash of movement he found himself seated where Clary had been and she was standing in front of him one leg placed next to his hip, biting her bottom lip slowly as she gazed over him, openly taking him in, eyes alight with desire. She was close enough for him to smell her arousal and he found himself salivating at the thought of burying his face between her legs. He ran his hands over her leg as he started kissing his way along her inner thigh, intoxicated by the smell of her and the softness of her skin against his lips. He dipped his head beneath her dress, hungrily taking in the sight of her in her sheer lacey panties in the dim lighting before placing light kisses over her hips, teasing her, feeling her hands running through his hair in encouragement. This was pure unadulterated debauchery and he felt powerless to resist. He placed one hand on her hip, the other caressing over her ass, fingertips teased over her panties already drenched with her arousal. He was just about to move them aside to touch her when she tugged on his hair pulling him away from her.
He lifted his head in surprise, meeting her eyes questioningly, but hers were full of fire and mischief as she smirked holding his shoulders to steady herself as she straddled him, sitting comfortably on his legs. He kept his hands placed on her hips, enjoying the soft smoothness of her skin as she slid her hands into his hair, roughly pulling his head back just enough to capture his full attention. He gazed at her in wonder, his breathing elevated as she starred hungrily in his eyes, before leaning in close and speaking into his ear, her voice thick and laced with desire.
"Do you want me Jace?" She asked as if the answer could ever be no.
"Yes." He answered, not even trying to pretend, his breath coming ragged.
"How much do you want me?" She continued as she reached between them sliding her hand down the front of his pants, just enough to tease him without actually touching him the way she knew he was craving.
A breathy moan escaped his lips involuntarily as he revelled in her touch. "More than anything." He admitted.
A small amused chuckle escaped her lips as she nibbled gently on his ear lobe before continuing. "And you're ready to take me?" She asked like she is daring him to see how far he will go.
"Yes." He confirmed as started worked his hands down, thumbs rubbing over the front of her panties, ready to tear them to shreds just to feel her.
She shifted her hand to tease around the band of his underwear, so close to what she knew was his unbearably hard length, enjoying the way his breath hitched at the contact and a small involuntary whimper escaped his lips. He was struggling to speak now, feeling completely drunk with desire so powerful he could feel it vibrating through every part of his body.
Clary chuckled lightly, clearly enjoying the way she was driving him insane, while still refusing to actually touch him. Jace bit his bottom lip in frustration as she pulled back holding his hair, forcing him to meet her gaze. She was enjoying teasing him a little too much, but by the look in her eyes she was just as ready as he was. Images of the night before and how good it felt flashed through his mind and he had to force some composure on himself to utter a word. "I will do… whatever you want me to." He stated failing dismally at any semblance of playing it cool.
Clary took her hand away from his pants and ran her thumb over his lower lip tantalisingly slow before leaning in and claiming his mouth again. She was as rough and forceful as him, softness and patience temporarily forgotten as he opened his mouth to hers, delving deeper and more passionate than he had ever experienced with Clary before. He was drowning in her, his longing for her unable to be contained as he let his thumbs slip underneath her panties, massaging gradually lower as she moaned softly into his kiss, the vibrations reverberating through him like nothing he'd ever felt before.
His control was walking a razors edge as she slid closer, close enough that he could feel their bodies connect through their clothing again, rubbing against him until they were both moaning against each other. Then just when he thought she about to take things further she suddenly pulled her mouth from his, halting their movements. He gazed at her, both of them breathing hard, lips swollen and crimson, cheeks flushed, electricity surging between them as the music blared through the club.
Cross my heart, hope to die
To my lover, I'd never lie
He said "be true", I swear I'll try
In the end, it's him and I
He's out his head, I'm out my mind
We got that love, the crazy kind
I am his and he is mine
In the end, it's him and I
"Clary, I…" Jace started, but she cut him off, placing a finger to his lips, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she leaned back in close to his ear, her breath sending shivers through him.
"You can tell me to stop anytime…" she said, her voice thick with desire. "But you won't…." She trailed off as she took his earlobe in her mouth gently nibbling on it before moving to his neck, sucking hard as she went, hard enough to leave marks he knew, but he couldn't find a reason to care with her lips against his skin. When she reached his mouth again he expected her to delve in, but instead she pulled back, a wicked glint in her eyes as she climbed off of him. To his surprise she kneeled in front of him, sliding between his legs, her eyes never leaving his as she positioned herself. He watched her take a hungry look over him as she placed her hands on his legs, massaging her way up, gazing down as his very obvious bulge like she wanted nothing more than to rips his pants off right here and now.
It seemed impossible to stop, yet even through the haze of desire there was a growing uneasiness that he couldn't explain, some kind of instinct trying to take over him, but he couldn't seem to focus on anything anymore, lost in a sea of sensations, torn between running away and giving himself over to her completely. It would have been so easy to give in as he looked down at her teasing around his hips, playing with the buckle on his belt biting her bottom lip. By the angel he was ready to let her take him into her mouth, even if it killed him he would have died happy…
But suddenly his head was exploding, lights swirling around him in ways that made him feel dizzy and nauseous, colours blurred like falling stars around him as figures on the other side of the curtain seemed to be crowding and closing them in. His breathing accelerated uncomfortably as he gasped trying to take in a full breath that wouldn't come, his heart hammering almost audibly. He could feel the panic taking over his body just as the euphoria had only minutes earlier, and when Clary met his gaze again her eyes were entirely black, her mouth twisted into an unnatural maniacal grin, hands like claws holding him in place, a predator like laughed escaping her as she leaned in…
…and then he was moving, stumbling away, down the stairs, through the crowd who also seemed to be clawing at him like thousands talons trying to catch him and drag him away. He fought through the hell surrounding him until suddenly he was free, stumbling out the side door into an alleyway his head spinning out of control, his vision too blurred to see straight. He reached for the stone wall to steady himself trying to breathe, trying to calm himself, but the wall somehow didn't feel solid enough to hold him up… and then he was falling, colours around him blurring into nothingness, black spots appearing around the edges of his vision. He could hear a voice calling out to him but couldn't manage to decipher what it was saying as everything around him seemed to swallow him whole until there was nothing but darkness…
He awakened to the feeling of his side burning as the world around him started to become clearer, more focused, like waking up from a nightmare. He started to become aware of his surroundings his eyes blinking slowly for a minute until he could she Clary kneeling over him looking concerned holding one of his hands in hers, her other hand cradling his face as she called out his name. "Jace? Can you hear me?"
Clarity finally came back as the world around him came back into focus. He sat up carefully, the back of his head throbbing lightly "Must've hit my head when I fell…" He answered wincing a little. "What happened?" He asked, leaning back on his hands.
"I don't know, you just completely freaked out and ran off." Clary answered. "I think you were having a bad trip."
Jace nodded. "Yeah… I guess that must've been it." He was still trying to make sense of what he saw, echos of last night sticking in the back of his mind as he stood carefully, his head still throbbing. "You got a stele I'm guessing?" He asked and Clary handed hers to him. He ignited his iratze again, the ache in his head slowly fading away as he handed it back to her.
Clary stepped close placing her hands either side of his face. "I'm sorry Jace, I just thought it would be a bit of fun. Are you okay?"
Jace nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine, I guess." He answered, though he still felt a little scattered.
Clary smiled in relief. "Do you wanna head back in?" She bit her bottom lip playfully.
Jace shook his head, disappointed to deny her, but absolutely certain that he couldn't handle going back inside. "No, I think a walk in the night air might be good actually." He stated. "If you don't mind?" He followed up as her face fell a little.
She held his gaze for a moment and then nodded in acceptance. "Okay. I'll send Jonathan a message." Clary pulled out her phone from the thigh holster he'd somehow managed not to notice she was wearing and typed a short text before taking Jace's hand in hers as they walked out of the alleyway.
They found themselves strolling along the bank outside the Museum Kampa, the night air cool and refreshing. Jace had handed her his jacket a few blocks before when she started hugging her arms around herself while insisting she wasn't cold. She must have been the only person he could think of who was more stubborn than him.
They fell into a comfortable conversation as they stopped to take in the view of the city by the riverbank. Arms slung around each other. "So tell me… what is the strangest thing a parental figure has done for you?" Clary asks.
Jace thinks for a moment before answering. "Well I think this one says more about me than him, but there was this one birthday when I was still living with Valentine… it's funny, most of the time he was fanatically strict, but every year on my birthday he would take it easy and give me pretty much anything I asked for… anyway there was this one year when all I could think about was taking a bath in spaghetti. The funny part was when I told him, he didn't even look at me weird, he just nodded and when he birthday came around he filled up the tub with spaghetti and I took a bath in it."
Clary look up at him not sure whether to laugh. "You're right, that definitely tells me more about you than him." She remarked before finally laughing lightly as Jace chuckled.
Clary took a step away from him looking at him out of the corner of her eye. "What?" Jace finally asked after a minute.
"Nothing…" Clary trailed off, not sure how to express what she was thinking. Jace raised his eyebrows waiting for her to continue. "It's just… I kinda feel like I know you better now and yet not at all…" She smiled a little shyly.
Jace grasped her hand lightly in his. "I get it." He agrees. "I mean sometimes I feel like I've known you my whole life, other times… I mean I guess it's easy to forget that we've only really known each other a few months."
Clary nodded smiling fondly. "Yeah… it is."
"So what about you?" Jace prodded. "What's the strangest thing a parental figure has done for you?"
Clary looked thoughtful. "I don't know… I can't really remember anything they did that was strange really… well I mean apart from my mother taking me to Magnus every year to get my memory wiped, I guess that counts right…" She sighed and Jace pulled her close wrapping his arms around her. "I miss her, but I'm still angry at her…" She confessed sadly. "How is that possible?"
Jace held her head in his hand. "Her being gone doesn't erase what she did. And you're not a bad person for feeling what you feel, it's only natural."
Clary sighed softly clutching at his back. "Yeah I guess…" she trailed off, not sure what to say but not wanting to move either, enjoying the warmth of him.
Jace closed his eyes pressing his lips into her hair breathing in her scent. He felt lucky right then despite everything going on. It was the calm moments like these that made him glad to be alive. Suddenly there was a splash behind them. They both looked over slightly startled and Jace froze while Clary laughed lightly as the sight of a lone duck standing on the side walk where they were about to continue walking before they stopped.
Jace slowly shifted around her trying to act casual as he wrapped his other arm around her smoothy, slowly. Maybe if he moved slowly it would go away. Clary didn't seem to notice at first continuing to speak until she noticed Jace wasn't really responding.
"Jace?" He heard her calling but it was like he was in a haze subconsciously shifting farther away from the creature until he felt like there was enough distance. He was almost relaxed when an entire flock of ducks suddenly appeared flapping their way to the river bank.
And then he was moving walking fast, Clary following fast behind him in confusion. Until he stopped about 10 meters away from where they had been standing. "Jace?" Clary asked again catching up to him. "Are you okay?"
Jace looked back at the river bank breathing a sigh of relief as he confirmed they were not being followed. "Yeah, yeah I'm fine… I just…" He suddenly realised he probably looked completely ridiculous and didn't know how to explain himself.
Clary looked back to where they'd been standing and back at him curiously and he flushed with embarrassment as he realised she'd caught on. "Ummm… correct me if I'm wrong, but did I just see the Jace Herondale run away from a duck?"
Before he could control himself he was ranting. "First of all it was a whole flock of ducks, as if one wasn't bad enough, just standing there staring at me with those eyes, but then there was the whole flock and what is with ducks anyway? They do that weird walk thing when they could just fly and…"
Clary's explosive laughter interrupted him as he stopped speaking mortified. "It's not that funny." He muttered looking down at his feet as Clary's laughter slowed down and finally stopped after a couple minutes.
"Are you kidding?" Clary giggled trying not to burst into explosive laughter again. "This might possibly be the funniest thing I've ever seen!"
Jace pursed his lips as he finally met her face alive in joyous amusement. "Okay okay, it's funny. I mean not really, but it's a thing. It's a weird thing that creeps me out and I don't know why and it's embarrassing, so maybe just… calm down and don't tell Jonathan. He already has enough ammunition on me."
Clary calmed herself down and grabbed his hand again stepping close. "Okay, deal." She smiles widely still amused.
Jace sighed. "You're gonna be laughing about this for days aren't you." He stated, pre-empting his future embarrassment.
Clary nodded unable to keep the smile from her face. "Chances are very high." She confirmed. Her phone vibrated as she contemplated how many ways she could tease him about this. She picked it up reading the message. "Jonathan's done." She states typing a quick response before placing her phone away again. "I guess we should head back." She sighs.
Jace slipped his hand into hers intertwining their fingers together. "No offence, but next time I vote we leave the brother at home."
"Deal." Clary stated nodding in agreement as they started walking back.
The tensions between Jonathan and Jace made Clary extremely glad she had the ability to create portals on nights like this. Most of the time she could put up with it, but after the night they'd just had, even with the humorous moment by the river, their rivalry was getting on her last nerve.
She left them both to satisfy their egos as she slipped into her room, stripping off Jace's jacket and taking a minute to wash the remaining silver drops off of her self. She heard the click of the door as she slipped out of her dress, pulling a long t-shirt over her bare chest and comfortable short shorts to replace her panties. She letting out a yawn as she worked her way out of her boots enjoying the feeling of bare feet as she stepped into the room to find Jace sitting on the edge of the bed in nothing but his underwear. He looked up at her as she approached smiling faintly as he realised she was wearing one of his shirts.
"I like this on you." He commented playfully tugging at the hem as she stepped close enough for him to wrap his arms around her back. He rested his head against her abdomen sighing deeply. "You tired?" He asked.
"A little." She admitted, but it was more than that. She felt worn out and somehow wired at the same time remembering how incredibly turned on she'd been in the club. Her skin still felt hot at the memory, but emotionally she felt like there was a kind of disconnect now. The moment was definitely past. "You?" She asked gently running her fingers through his hair.
Jace shrugged. "In some ways…" He left the sentence hanging in a not quite comfortable way.
Clary rubbed along his arms soothingly. "You wanna talk about it?" She prodded.
Jace pulls back looking conflicted. "I do, I'm just… I'm not sure how to say this…" He slid himself up onto the bed sitting up against the pillows.
Clary climbed over him coming to sit beside him leaning on her side to face him.
"Clary do you remember last night when I had that… a moment right before we…" He paused trying to find the right words.
"Slept together?" She finished smirking. "Yeah, I remember."
"Okay." He muttered placing a hand gently on her knee. "Look I don't know how to say this, so I'm just gonna say it. I'm concerned about that rune Lilith marked you with."
Clary felt her defences rising immediately, though for a moment she wasn't sure why. "Can you elaborate? What does this have to do with your… moment?"
Jace was hesitant in a way she'd never really seen before. "I saw something… in your eyes, not just last night, but tonight as well… and I'm not sure if was the drugs because it feels like too much of a coincidence…" Jace paused and Clary was beginning to get impatient.
"Just say it Jace." She quipped harsher than she intended.
Jace didn't seem to balk at her tone and his face looked genuinely concerned. "Clary… I saw your eyes turn black, the same way Jonathan's do when he choses to reveal his demon side. First last night when I had that… moment… and then again tonight… right before I ran off…"
Clary shook her head defensively. "You were high tonight Jace, remember?"
"But I wasn't last night." He countered and then bit his lips not looking comfortable at all.
"What are you trying to say Jace?" Clary was definitely frustrated now.
Jace took a deep breath letting it out slowly. "I don't know Clary, and yeah it might just be coincidence, or maybe I'm losing my mind… all I know is I saw your eyes go black and I can't explain it, but it's not just that. You're different around Jonathan as well…"
Clary groaned in frustration.
"No Clary please just listen." Jace pleaded, his eyes sincere.
"Why?" Clary snapped surprising them both with her sudden outburst before controlling herself. "Look Jace, I know you and Jonathan have your issues, but I really don't wanna talk about this right now."
Jace shook his head. "It's not about whatever… rivalry there is between me and him, it's about the way you act when you're near him."
Clary could feel the rage building inside of her, rapidly losing the ability to control it. "And how exactly to I act Jace?"
"Like you're mimicking him…" Jace began carefully, trying to balance the emotional turmoil obviously coursing through her. "It's like you give in to him too easily. Like you don't fight him when you probably should… like when he makes suggestive comments and you brush it off like it's a joke or he buys you that dress and you wear it without question or…"
"Stop." Clary interrupted having heard enough, shaking her head looking away from him.
"Clary…" Jace tried to continue but she cut him off again.
"No Jace, You've said enough!" She exclaimed reaching the peak of her frustration. "I don't want to be in the middle of this rivalry anymore and I don't want you projecting your insecurities on me and my brother."
Jace tried to open his mouth again and she turned sharply on him, now visibly furious. "Jace, I swear by the angel if you open your mouth again I will punch you in the face."
Jace's shocked expression did nothing to sway her as she roughly pulled herself under the covers huffing angrily. Jace stepped off of the bed coming around to her side in one last attempt but she held up her hand burying her face in the pillows before he could speak. "Jace, I'm exhausted and I just wanna sleep. If you have a problem with that I suggest you leave." She couldn't hear it anymore, too tired and angry to deal with this right now.
She kept her face buried in the pillows as she heard him getting dressed hastily and muttering "fine" angrily under his breath. Somewhere in the back of her mind she acknowledged that she was probably stepping into negative relationship territory, but in the moment she was too angry to care. By the time the door closed behind him and his footsteps disappeared down the hall she was seething and screamed into a pillow in frustration before throwing it across the room. This was definitely not how she'd envisioned this night going.
Jace walked briskly at first trying to vent his frustration, before setting into a lazy stroll hands in his pockets as he wandered through the deserted streets. He couldn't blame her for being angry. He didn't even know how to describe what he was seeing or why it bothered him so much. He had no evidence that couldn't be reasonably explained by either PTSD or drugs and he had a very real rivalry with Jonathan that had nothing to do Clary when it really came down to it. At the end of the day all he really had was an instinct that something was out of place and that wasn't enough to convince her.
Jace sighed fiddling with the ring in his pocket. It was well past his check in time with Simon but he decided to try anyway, slipping the ring on his finger before hiding it back in his pocket just incase of prying eyes.
Simon? You there?
The response was almost instantaneous and Jace almost felt sorry for him considering he must have been waiting for the past 3 hours. Jace? Thank God, man what's happening? I was starting to worry.
Jace rolled his eyes at the dramatics. Sorry, long night. Is everything okay on your end?
Yeah, everything's fine here. Long night huh. Do you wanna talk about it?
Not really… Jace sighed. The last person he wanted to bring this up with was Simon, but he couldn't deny that after how long he'd known Clary he might have some insight. Me and Clary had a fight. He admitted. There's something going on with her. I confronted her about it, she got pissed… like practically screaming at me pissed and told me to leave.
Leave as in leave her or just give her some space? Simon prodded seeming genuinely concerned.
She's angrier than I've ever seen her. Jace stated. I mean she's never been shy about letting me know when she doesn't agree with me, but this was… it's like I hit a nerve. She was extremely defensive from the start and it probably didn't help that I didn't really know how to explain to her what I'm seeing…
Oh… Simon trailed off for a moment before continuing. Uhhh… can I ask what the fight was about?
Jonathan. Jace spat, trying to think how to explain what he knew. She's… oddly comfortable with him… and it might be a sibling thing or maybe they became close in Edom, but sometimes it almost like she's… mimicking him, like twins or something… Jace sighed. I don't know how well I'm explaining this…
Simon spoke carefully, obviously not wanting to cause offence. I mean I hate to say it Jace, but he's her brother. It's a sore spot for her, especially after losing her mother I think she's missing that link to her family you know? I'm not sure I would be reasonable either in her position.
Jace nodded thoughtfully. I mean I get it, I saw how much she wanted to save him and I can see how much she wants to hold onto him now, it's just… he's not right in the head.
Simon seemed to laugh. Well that much is obvious. Is there something more to it?
Jace debated more a moment how much he should tell him, but he needed a second opinion. There's something… but I'm not sure if it was real… I thought I saw her eyes turn black the last couple days… but the first time I was having a panic attack and the other time we were drugged so… I can't be sure it was real… Jace groaned lightly in frustration. I honestly don't know how to explain it, but she's different and I think it's something to do with this rune Lilith carved into her.
Simon didn't seem to know how to respond. Yeah okay… that's… I mean wow… that's a lot to take in. Do you think she's still safe?
For now, yes… Jace responded …but I still don't know what Jonathan is planning. I'm gonna need to track him to find out more, but that means finding a way to get away from Clary. Jace sighs deeply, wondering if he should share what his real concern is.
Simon seemed to sense it though. There's more isn't there. He states.
Jace continued after a moment realising for the first time what was really bothering him and why he couldn't bring it up with Clary without breaking his cover. Jonathan's using her to distract me. He finally admits. He'd known it before, but right now it finally felt real. I heard them talking yesterday before we went out… The problem is she's in on it… but I don't know whether it's misplaced loyalty or he's got some sort of control over her… He paused because he really didn't want to entertain the worst case scenario. I need you to do something for me. He finally says.
Okay, sure whatever you need. Simon agrees.
I need you research blood rituals, particularly binding rituals in raising the dead.
Okay… Simon agrees hesitantly. Any suggestions where to start?
Jaces hated himself already for what he was about to suggest. Magnus. He's probably the only person you'll be able to get to who would be familiar with the kind of ritual Lilith might have used. And if the questions are coming from you it won't look too suspicious because you were there right before the apartment blew up. You could tell him you're trying to make sense of things or grieving or something.
Yeah. Okay. Good idea. Simon acknowledged.
Jace breathed a guilty sigh of relief. If nothing else, this was at least something he could do to get more information. Okay. I'll do my best to check in on time next time and you can let me know if you've been able to get anything from Magnus.
Okay. Simon acknowledges.
And Simon?
Yeah?
Try to keep Alec out of this for now.
I'll do my best. Simon agrees.
Jace worked the ring off his finger still in his pocket stealthily before rounding the corner nearest the apartment, cursing silently as he approached realising he didn't have a key. He hung his head in frustration, preparing for a restless night when a smug voice called out beside him.
"Trouble in Paradise?" Jonathan chided appearing out of nowhere.
Jace shook his head, absolutely not willing to discuss his relationship drama with him. "Nope. Just needed a bit of air." He stated.
Jonathan laughed amused. "Next time to try to deny it you should probably use a silencing rune on the door."
Jace cursed under his breath trying not to panic. "And I suppose you're going to what? Tell me to stay away from your sister? Give me brotherly advice? What?"
Jonathan smirked. "All I know is you had an argument. I don't know what it was about, but I'm assuming it was probably to do with me."
Jace kept his face even. "Even if it was I wouldn't discuss it with you."
Jonathan raised one eyebrow shrugging, seemingly not caring enough to pursue it any further. "I guess I should let you in considering you don't have a key."
Jace didn't miss the smugness in his voice, but decided not to entertain it. "Yeah, okay, I'd appreciate that." He gritted the last part out.
Jonathan walked ahead gesturing for him to follow, staying outside the door after unlocking it. "Oh Jace." He called out before he got more than a few steps inside. Jace turned around weary and annoyed. "I don't particularly care about whether your relationship fails or not. The only reason I haven't killed you yet is because she's still living under the delusion that she's in love with you. The second that's no longer the case…" He trailed off eyes boring into Jace's threateningly.
Jace smirked, almost laughing at his audacity. "Let's not forget who killed who last time we fought." He stated matter-of-factly before walking away. He didn't really care how Jonathan reacted, he knew now that he had no intention of killing him as long as he believed Clary was in love with him.
Jace quietly slipped back into her room undressing as soundlessly as possible not wanting to wake her. The room was slightly illuminated by moonlight as he shifted around to his side of the bed. Her eyes her closed but he could tell by the tension in her face and her uneven breathing that she was still awake and knew he was there. He decided to take a leap of faith and slipped under the covers beside her, laying down so his face was level with hers, gazing at her face tenderly. "I'm sorry." He whispered sincerely.
She didn't open her eyes, still too stubborn to speak, but her face visibly relaxed and she shifted closer letting him wrap his arm around her. Nothing was solved and they definitely needed to talk things through, but at least for now they had a truce. Jace breathed in her scent deeply, letting it calm him as he pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead before finally abandoning himself to sleep.
Reviews are life, please let me know what you think.