Twenty-First One Shot:
Billionaire
Clary POV:
I had just given my assistant the names of everyone I wanted to invite to my ball. I held one every year, it was a great way to network. Personally I hated the whole idea but my publicist told me years ago that it would do great things for my reputation, and as much as I hate to admit it, she was right. My only condition was that nobody knew it was my ball. In the art world I'm known as Clarissa Morgenstern, but whenever I go places I'm simply Clary Fray. Nobody knew what I looked like, nobody knew anything about my personal life. I even rented out a mansion to host the ball so nobody found out where I lived. When I was younger I was always treated differently because of my family status. My fathers family came from old money. Before I was even a thought in my parents mind I had a 30 million dollar trust fund. That was just the start of it all. Pretty soon I was the youngest billionaire in the world. My art was selling like hot cakes. I stopped using my professional name in public early on in my career, it was just easier.
Tonight I was going out to eat to discuss a potential buyer with my publicist. I wanted to stay in and watch a sappy romantic movie but according to Izzy, this client could be life changing. When I got there I had requested being seated in a private part of the restaurant so we wouldn't be overheard. Izzy got there 5 minutes later and we order and started talking.
"His name is Sebastian. He works on Wall Street. He's almost as rich as you so a budget isn't an issue. He wants it done in a month for him and his wife's anniversary."
"Does he have a theme?" I ask and Izzy takes out her notebook.
"He wants a pond, with a giant oak tree with a swing attached. A girl sitting on the swing while a man stands by the pond."
"Any certain colors?"
"He wants everything black and white with her wearing a red dress, with blonde hair, him wearing a red tie, with blonde hair."
"So he wants the people highlighted?"
"Yes."
"Alright. Tell him I'm in."
"Price?"
"5 million. A month is a rush. I'll be spending the majority of my time on it and pushing other requests aside to get t done."
"Deal. I'll call when we're done."
"Call now. I'm going to go get some fresh air." I said and she nodded and pulled out her phone while I walked out on the balcony. I got out there and there was a blonde man standing smoking a cigarette. I walked over to him, and stood next to him.
"Can I bum one?" I ask and he looks over.
"Sure." He says and he pulls out a pack and I take one. He hands me the lighter and I light it and I immediately start to relax. "You seem like you've had a rough night."
"Business dinner. Rather boring if you ask me."
"Sounds boring." He says and I take another puff.
"What about you?"
"I'm on break."
"You work here?"
"I'm the entertainment." He says and I look at him. "Piano."
"You're really good." I said and he shrugs.
"Eh. I'm alright."
"If you don't think you're good, why are you playing?"
"I need the money. It's my third job." He says and I'm shocked.
"What are your that two?"
"I'm a caddy at the golf course here, and weekends I'm the breakfast chef."
"Man of many talents."
"Trust me, if I had money I'd be doing what I really wanted to do."
"And what's that?"
"I'd love to be a musician. I was in a band in high school. We were pretty good, but I needed to get my head out of the clouds and focus on real work."
"College?"
"Completely out of the question."
"Why is that?"
"Couldn't afford it. My parents needed my help keeping the house so after graduation I stated working odd jobs."
"Is that why you work three jobs now?"
"Yea. My dad died a couple years ago, and it nearly broke my mom. I moved back in and have been taking care of her ever since."
"That's very sweet of you." I said and he put his cigarette out. He looked back at me and than back into the restaurant.
"My break is up. It was good talking to you..."
"Clary." I said and he smiled.
"I'm Jace." He said and than I put my cigarette out. "Maybe we could grab some coffee some day." He said and I couldn't help but smile.
"I'd like that." I said as I grabbed a napkin from one of the outside tables and Jace handed me a pen. "Here's my number. Text me when you want to get together."
"I will. Have a goodnight Clary."
"You too." He said as he made his way back to the piano. I walked back to Izzy who was just hanging up the phone.
"Why do you look so...happy?" She said and I just laughed.
"I think I just got asked out on a date."
"No way?!" She said and I nodded. "By who?"
"The man playing the piano." I said and she looked around me to see.
"Girl, he is hot. How did you start talking?"
"I bummed a cigarette off him."
"I thought you were quitting Clary."
"I've been really stressed lately." I said and she just shook her head. I paid for our dinner and we left the restaurant. I couldn't get Jace out of my head. I haven't dated in a while, I've never been comfortable to let anyone know who I really was, but I felt like I could get that comfortable with Jace. I couldn't wait until we got together again.
Time Jump - Three Days Later
Clary POV:
Jace had texted me earlier today and asked if I'd like to grab some coffee and I was super exited. This painting was causing me a lot of stress, and I needed a break and a cigarette. I got into my car and made it to the cafe where Jace was already sitting outside at one of the tables. He looked completely different than he did the other night. He was in black jeans, a white tee, and a leather jacket and he looked incredibly sexy. I parked and got out of the car and made my way over to him. He put out his cigarette and stood up to greet me.
"Hey."
"Hey. I'm glad you could make it."
"I was in desperate need of a break when you texted me." I said and he pulled out my chair. "Would you mind getting me some coffee? I really need a smoke."
"Sure. How do you like it?"
"Black please." I say and he nods and goes for the coffee. By the time I get my cigarettes out and light it he's back. He puts my mug down in front of me than sit in his chair.
"So, how was your day?"
"Long. I haven't been to bed yet." I said and he laughed.
"Why did you pull an all nighter?"
"You know that business dinner I was at the other night?" He nods. "Well, I have this client who wants a painting for his wife for their anniversary, but he wants it in a month, and he was a very specific theme. It took me all night to get the background right."
"You're a painter?" He asks and I nod. "Are you any good?"
"Well..." I start, I don't want to scare him away when he finds out who I am.
"I mean, if you're having business dinners, and someone wants your work, you must be good right?"
"Promise you won't freak?" I ask and he looks at me with a confused expression, before he nods. "My name is Clarissa Morgenstern." I say and clearly he doesn't keep up with the wealthy.
"Okay?"
"I'm the youngest billionaire in the world." I said and his jaw dropped.
"You're not kidding?" I shake my head. He clearly looks flustered and he stands up and starts walking away.
"Hey! Where are you going?" I say as I chase after him.
"I'm leaving."
"Why?"
"Why? Because I'm having coffee with a billionaire. I just, it's not right."
"Why isn't it right?"
"Are you kidding me? You have a billion dollars."
"Actually I have close to three billion." I said and than realize it wasn't the right thing to say. "Not that that matters."
"Of course it matters. I'm nothing. I have nothing. We aren't from the same social class. Our worlds aren't meant to collide." He says as he continues to walk away.
"You didn't care before I told you who I was, why does my money change that?" I yell and he turns around.
"Our lives aren't compatible. You should be with someone who is equal to you. Not below you."
"I've dated men who are rich. Guess what? They all suck. They want me for who my father is, who my family is, how much money I have. I gave up dating awhile ago. I thought you were different. I thought that maybe, just maybe I found a guy who wouldn't be intimidated by my money, and actually liked me for me. I guess I was wrong." I said and started to walk away. I was stopped when I felt my arm being grabbed.
"Clary."
"What?"
"I didn't mean to make you upset. It's just, I guess it did freak me out a little. I mean, I can't even comprehend that much money. I've never had money. I barely got money for a school lunch because we couldn't afford it. You can't expect me to just hear that and not be completely floored." He said and I guess I understood what he meant. "Look, I'm sorry I freaked. I was really excited to see you today. I couldn't get you out of my head for the past three days."
"Neither could I." I said and I looked into his eyes. "I like you Jace. I like talking to you, and we were having a good time before you freaked. If my money is too much for you, please let me know, but if you can treat me like a normal person, and you want to get to know me, I need to know."
"I may not be able to over look the money, but I can treat you like a normal person. I'd love to get to know you." He said and I couldn't help but smile. I walked over to him and wrapped my arms around his neck.
"I have this ball that I'm hosting this weekend. It's kinda a big deal. My publicist organizes it every year for networking purposes, I personally hate it, but I think I'd enjoy it a lot more if you were there. Would you like to be my date?"
"I don't have a suit." He said and I smiled.
"Would you be against me buying you one? You can say no, I could ask my publicist if I could borrow her brothers for you." I say and I can see him thinking about it.
"You can buy me one on one condition."
"What's that?"
"Would you be opposed to meeting my mother?" He says, and I wasn't expecting that.
"You want me to meet your mom? So soon?" I ask and he laughs.
"I'm gonna have to tell her where I'm going, and get someone to watch her, and she's going to ask questions."
"Is she ill?" I ask.
"Yea. She has lupus, and in the last couple years she's really gone down hill. I don't like leaving her alone."
"I'm so sorry."
"Don't be. She's an amazing woman, and she's lived a great life. It's just hard seeing her like this." He says and I can't help but throw my arms around him and gave him a hug.
"When do you want me to meet her?"
"I'm off tomorrow. Why don't you come over for lunch?"
"Sounds perfect. Text me your address?" I said and he nodded. We ended up taking a walk around the park talking about our lives, and sharing childhood stories. We walked back to my car and he opened my car door. He leaned forward and pressed his lips to my cheek.
"I'll see you tomorrow." He said and I couldn't stop the butterflies in my stomach.
"See you tomorrow." I said. I got into my car and drove home happier than I have been in awhile. This was going to be good, I just knew it.
Time Jump - Tomorrow
Clary POV:
I was internally freaking out about meeting Jace's mom. I have never meet someone's parent before. I dated a guy for 6 months before without meeting his family, and I've known Jace for 4 days, and I was already meeting his mother. Talk about intimidating.
I decided to wear my dark skinny jeans and a green sweater, with my white converse. I gps'd Jace's address, got in my car and headed over to his house. I had never been in this part of town. A lot of the houses were abandoned and condemned and it was a little sketchy. I pulled up to the house and got out, and started towards the house. I knocked on the door and Jace opened it. He gestured for me to come in and when I walked into his house it was really homey. There were pictures of his family all around, there was a fire going in the fireplace, and a woman sitting in a big chair covered in blankets. I walked over and she smiled at me.
"You must be Clary. It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Celine."
"It's wonderful to meet you." I said and I took a seat.
"I'll go get lunch ready." Jace said and I smile at him as he goes to the kitchen.
"So Clary, how old are you?"
"I'm 27."
"What do you do for a living?"
"I'm an artist."
"Oh really? Do you make a lot of money?"
"Uh, yes. I do. I make a significant amount."
"That's impressive. Many artists are struggling."
"I had access to the best education around, and I had a lot of connections. I was fortunate when it came to the art world."
"I bet. I wish I could have done that. Jace is an amazing musician. I feel bad he had to give it up for us."
"I would love to hear him play. I heard him on the piano at a restaurant and he was amazing."
"He's an even better singer."
"Really?"
"Yea. Always in plays, and talent shows. I am so proud of his talent."
"I'd love to hear him." I said and Jace came back out with a tray.
"Alright mom, I have the three pills you need to take, and their is no dairy in your meal, and I'll make you your tea when your finished." He said and gave her a kiss on the head. "I'll be right out with our food." He said as he left again.
"He's the sweetest son I could ever imagine."
"He's something else." I said with a smile.
"You really like him don't you?"
"I do. I've had a string of bad luck when it comes to men. He's the first decent guy I've met in awhile."
"He doesn't have the best past with women either."
"What happened?"
"He caught his fiancé sleeping with his best friend."
"Shit." I said and she laughed.
"That was five years ago, and although he seems to be over it, it still caused him a lot of pain. He went through a terrible depression. He thought he wasn't good enough, and he thought he'd never find someone. It was bad. But when my disease got worse he got up one day and never mentioned it again." I was about to open my mouth when I heard Jace call me. I smiled and got up and walked into the kitchen. I walked right up to him and pressed my lips to his, and he was surprised but kissed me back.
"What was that for?" He asked and I smiled.
"Your mom told me about your ex-fiancé." I said and he groaned. "She was an idiot for doing that to you. I bet she's still single and regretting every minute of her actions."
"I wish. They got married 3 years ago."
"You're better off without her." I said and he smiled.
"I know I am." He said as he pressed his lips to mine. I grabbed my lunch and went back out to his mother. We sat there and talked about Jace's childhood. I don't remember the last time I laughed so hard. He seemed like such a funny kid. His mom pulled out a photo album from his high school days. We got I a picture of him and a boy and I could feel Jace tense. I looked at Jace and his eyes softened.
"That was my best friend. His name is Sebastian." He said and I suck in a breath. "What?"
"His last name wouldn't be Verlac would it?" I ask as he looks shocked.
"How do you know him?" I lean over and whisper in his ear.
"That's the painting I'm currently working on. He's surprising his wife with it for their anniversary." I said and he tensed again. He got up and walked out of the room and I could hear the back door open. I closed the book and looked at his mom. "I'm going to go check on him." She nodded and I headed out back. I got out there and he was smoking a cigarette. I stood next to him and he offered me one. I gladly took one and lit it. "I'm sorry." I said and he looked at me.
"It's not your fault. It just sucks." He said and he took another puff of smoke.
"How long were you together?" I ask. I don't want to hit any nerves but I am curious.
"Three years. We were engaged for about 8 months when I found them screwing each other." He takes another puff from his cigarette.
"We're you in love with her?"
"I thought I was. I thought we were going to spend the rest of our lives together, and start a family. I guess she wasn't as committed to me as I was to her, but apparently she's committed to him." He stomps out his cigarette and I take one last puff from mine and stomp it out too.
"Does it still hurt?" I ask and he turns towards me. He wraps his arms around my waist and pulls me into him.
"It hurt for awhile. You have your future planned out, and in 5 seconds it's completely ruined. But I've moved on." He says and I go on my tippy toes and press my lips to his again.
"Well, if this continues I promise I'll never put you through that." I say and he smiles.
"I definitely want this to continue." He said and my stomach flipped. I gave him one last kiss before I grabbed his hand and led him back into the house. We sat down on the couch and after a moment his mom spoke.
"Are you alright?" She's ask and Jace smiles.
"I'm good mom. I promise." His mother smiles and reaches over and grabs my hand.
"You got yourself a good one." She says and I can't help but blush.
"That I do." He says and kisses my cheek. "So mom, the reason I invited Clary over today was because she invited me to Clarissa Morgensterns ball, and I'm going to go. I was going to ask Pam if she could spend the night with you."
"You know Clarissa Morgenstern?" My mom asks looking shocked.
"You know who that is mom?"
"Of course. Don't you?"
"I didn't until very recently." Jace said and she looked annoyed which made me laugh.
"She's the youngest billionaire in the world. She's an incredible painter, and those balls are the most elite and sought out evenings to attend. How on earth my dear did you get invited?" She asks and I can't lie to her.
"Can you keep a secret?" I ask and she nods. "I'm Clarissa Morgenstern." I say and her jaw drops.
"Are you serious?" She asks and I nod. "It's an honor to meet you." She says and I smile. "My god Jonathan, you couldn't have cleaned up this place before she came over?" She said and I laugh.
"It's not necessary. I love your home. It's very homey." I say and she smiles. "I hope you don't mind me stealing Jace away for that evening. I always find them kind of a bore, and I think he'll make the night more entertaining."
"Anything you want my dear." I look at my watch and realize that I should probably get back home and continue to work on my painting.
"It was lovely meeting you, but I have to go. I have a painting that the client wants in a month and it's taking awhile." I stand up and walk over to her. I lean down and give her a hug.
"You're welcome here any time Clary."
"Thank you. I'd love to come by again." I said. Jace leads me to the front door and walks me to my car. When we get there I lean against my car and face him. "I want to paint your mother a picture."
"Clary." He says but I stop him.
"I want you to pick out her favorite picture. It can be a family portrait, a flower, a landscape, honestly anything, give it to me and I'm going to paint it for her." I said and he smiles.
"That would mean the world to her." He said and I pressed my lips to his.
"Alright, the ball is on Saturday at 7, I'll be here at 6:30 to pick you up."
"I'll see you Saturday." He says and I smile before I get into my car and drive home. I was going to like getting to know Jace, and his mother, I already knew it.
Time Jump - Ball
Clary POV:
I dropped Jace's suit off the other day, and I was putting the finishing touches on my wardrobe. Finally when I thought I was perfect I got into the limo and gave him the directions to his house. I walked up to his door, knocked and when Jace opened it he took my breath away. He looked absolutely stunning.
"I knew the all black look would look great on you." I said and he pressed his lips to mine. I walked in to say hello to his mother.
"Clary dear, you look amazing."
"Thanks Celine. How are you?"
"I've been better, but you certainly brightened up my day." She said. I leaned down and gave her a kiss on the cheek.
"You ready?" I asked Jace and he nodded. We walked out o the limo and made our way to the party. We walked in and I saw all of my past clients plus a couple new faces, who I can only assume were some of my new clients. I introduced Izzy to Jace and she gave me the silent 'get it' look and I rolled my eyes and walked away. A lot of my pieces were hanging up spring the mansion. Jace wanted to get a feel for my work so we were looking around, and I was explaining the meaning behind the pictures when out of the corner of my eye I saw a face I recognized, but not from any of my previous balls or client list, but from the photo album Jace's mom showed me. I grabbed Jace's arm and walked him to an empty hallways.
"What's going on?" He asks and I look into his eyes.
"Sebastian and his wife are here." I say and I feel him tense.
"Why?"
"Izzy likes to invite new clients to these things. Half of the people here are clients, and it's shown that if they come and see my work they are more likely to buy from me again. Since he is doing quite well for himself considering the price of his painting, I guess she thought he'd be a good person to invite."
"Great. I haven't seen them in five years."
"Well, we can do two things. One, we can sneak away and hide for the rest of the evening. Or two, go out there and show them that you're over what happened." I say and I see him thinking it over.
"Lets go with option two. I came to make your night more interesting. I'm not going to let them ruin it." He said and I pressed my lips to his. We walked out of the hallways and literally run into them. Clearly they are confused to see Jace because their eyes are as wide as they can be. I clear my throat and bring them back to reality.
"I'm so sorry. I didn't see you there. But I wasn't really focused after what just happened back there." I said and I could Jace try and cover his laugh. He snaked his arm around my waist and pulled me closer to him.
"Jace." Sebastian said and I put on my surprise face.
"You two know each other?" I asked and Sebastian nodded.
"Old friends." He said and I felt Jace's hand tighten on my hip.
"What a coincidence that you ran into each other here. I'm Clary, his girlfriend, and you are?" I asked the girl.
"Kaelie, his wife." She said and I nodded.
"You two make a lovely couple. But if you'll excuse us, we're going to go find a spare room to screw around in." I said and she looked horrified. Before we can pull away Sebastian speaks.
"What are you doing here Jace?" He asks and I mentally prepare myself for a full blown outbreak.
"I'm here with Clary."
"But how did you get invited. This isn't really your scene."
"Clary is friends with Clarissa." He says.
"Clary is awfully close to Clarissa." Kaelie states and I want to roll my eyes so badly but I don't.
"My first name is actually Clarissa as well, but growing up that can be confusing. So I went by Clary, she went by Clarissa. Made things a whole like easier." They nod. "Now, we'll just be leaving. Nice meeting you both." They nod again and I drag Jace out onto the balcony. He takes a few deep breaths before he looks at me.
"Thank you."
"For what?"
"Making them uncomfortable so that I wasn't." I smile and nod.
"Did you see her face when I said we were going to go screw around?" I said and he laughed and nodded. "Priceless." I walked over to him, turn him around so that he's leaning on the railing and I press myself into him. "If I knew who he was before I met you, I wouldn't have agreed to do his painting. Although it's a lot of money, I wouldn't die without it. I'm sorry if this ruined your night. I had no idea he was invited. Izzy handles the guest list for the most part. I give my input but if something helps with my income, she will do just about anything to make it work."
"The way you handled it honestly made me so happy. It was nice to see them have the deer in the headlights look."
"Anything for you boyfriend." I said and he laughed.
"You know, that doesn't sound too bad. I could get used to it." He said and my eyes widened.
"We've known each other for a week Jace."
"So? The point of dating is to get to know the person. I like you Clary, and I want to get to know you." He said and I just couldn't help but agree.
"I like you too." I said and he pressed his lips to mine. We were lost in the moment when we heard a throat clear behind us. We broke apart to see Sebastian and his wife standing there. "May we help you?"
"We just wanted some fresh air." He said and I nodded. I grabbed Jace's hand and we walked back into the ballroom. He pulled me out onto the dance floor and we danced for the rest of the evening. Tonight was perfect, and I was excited to see where it went.
Time Jump - One Year Later
Clary POV:
It was 3 am and I was in the middle of one of my paintings. The poor man who had asked for this painting has been getting pushed back for months due to me wanted to do the painting for Celine, and I was trying extra hard to finish it for him. I felt awful, but clearly not awful enough to say I was change my actions. I had hit a wall when 4 am rolled around and was about to start getting ready for bed when my phone rang. I have no idea who would be up at this hour. I grabbed my phone and Jace's name popped up.
"Hello?" I said and his breathing was frantic. "Jace, what's wrong?"
"She was rushed to the hospital. I heard a loud thud and when I went to see what happened she was unconscious in the hallway. She didn't have a pulse." He said and I immediately grabbed my stuff and started to my car.
"What hospital?"
"St. Mary's." He said and I started my engine.
"I'll be right there Jace." I said and I hung up and made my way to the hospital. 10 minutes later I was running into the hospital. I saw Jace sitting in a chair with his head in his hands. I walk over and kneel in front of him. "Jace?" I said and he slowly lifts his head up.
"I can't lose her Clare." He said and I sat on his lap and pulled him into a hug. We sat there for who knows how long until his name was called.
"Jace Herondale?" We heard and we both shot out of our seat.
"Yes?"
"We were able to revive her, but she's in a coma." He said and I think it took everything in Jace not to fall over. "You can see her, but family only." He said as he looked at me.
"She's my wife." Jace said like it was the most natural thing in the world, and I'm not going to lie, I liked the sound of that.
"Very well. She's in room 235." He said and we thanked him and headed towards her room. We walked in and Jace immediately say in the chair next to her bed and grabbed her hand. I pulled a chair up next to him and started rubbing his back.
We stayed there all day. It was almost 6 pm when my phone started ringing. Jace had fallen asleep with his head on the bed. I exited the room and went outside to answer the call.
"Hello?" I said and I knew Izzy would be pissed.
"Clarissa Adele Morgenstern, where the hell are you?" She yelled and I knew I should have texted her but I was preoccupied.
"Jace's mother was rushed to the hospital this morning, and I've been here with him ever since."
"Is she okay?" She asked in a calmer voice.
"Well, she was dead, but they brought her back. She's in a coma. It's tearing Jace apart." I said and a tear fell from my eye.
"I'm sorry. When will you be back?"
"I'm not sure Iz. He needs me."
"You have clients Clary. You can't just abandon them."
"I'm not abandoning them. I'm take personal time to be here for the man I love through this hard time." I said and she sucked in a breath.
"You love him?" She asked and I couldn't help but smile.
"I do. I really really do." I said and she squealed.
"Alright. Keep me in the loop. I'll let your clients know the date might be pushed back due to family emergency."
"You're the best Iz." I said and she laughed.
"I know. Love you Clare."
"Love you too." I said and I hung up. I made my way back into the room. Jace was still sleeping, so I walked over and started rubbing his back. A few minutes later he stirred awake.
"You stayed." He said and I smiled.
"Of course I stayed. I think we both need some food. We can go out or eat the food here." I said and he stood up.
"I think real food would be much better for us." He said and I nodded. He leaned down and kissed Celine on the forehead before we made our way out to my car. We pulled up to a little diner and took our seat. We ordered our food and sat in silence. I knew this was tough for him. It was written all over his face.
"What are you thinking about?" I ask as I extend my arm. He takes his hand in mine, and looks up.
"I can't afford the ambulance ride, let alone how long she'll be in the hospital." He says and I hate that he was stressing over money on top of his mother. He shouldn't have to worry about money. He should put all his focus on his mom.
"I'll pay." I said and his eyes snap up to me.
"What?"
"I'll pay. I'll take care of all of her medical expenses." I said and instead of joy, anger appears on his face.
"We aren't a charity case." He spats and I'm taken aback.
"I never said you were."
"We don't need your money. We've made it this far without it. We don't need your guilt." He says and I'm so confused.
"You think I'm doing this out of guilt? You think I started dating you because I thought I'd fulfill my Good Samaritan card? You think just because I have a lot of money I don't care how I spend it?" I said and he wouldn't look me in the eye. "Look at me Jace." I demanded and he finally locked eyes with me. "I offered because I love you." I said and his eyes got wide. "I love you so much and seeing you his hurt is killing me. You shouldn't have to worry about your mom plus money. You should be focusing only on your mom. I have plenty of money, and I want to spend it on you." I said and tears are now flowing down my cheeks. His eyes soften and he moves over to my side of the booth.
"I'm sorry." He says and I wipe my tears away. "I hate that I can't do anything for her. I never wanted anyone to treat us like a charity case. Sure, we aren't really financially stable, but we've gotten by. The fact that what she needs, I can't give her really sucks." He said and I look into his eyes. "You really love me?" He asks and I nod. A smile appears across his face. "I love you too. I have for so long." He says and I turn and put my legs across his lap.
"Why haven't you told me yet?"
"I guess part of me was scared you'd run away. If I uttered those words, you'd freak." He said and I put my hands on each side of his face and pulled his lips to mine. We pulled apart and smiled.
"Now, we need to decide what to do with your mom. Do you want her to stay in the hospital, or I could transform a room in my house into a hospital and hire a small hospital staff to be there 24/7." I said and his eyes widened.
"You'd do that?"
"Absolutely. I love you Jace. I'd do anything for you, and your mom."
"I love you too. I think I'd like if she was at your house. Hospitals have always creeped me and her out, and if she wakes up, at least she'll be in a comfortable environment." He said and I nod.
"Alright. I'll talk to her doctor, and set something up." I said and he pulled me into a hug.
"I don't know what I'd do without you." He said and I smiled. We paid for dinner and headed back to the hospital. I was going to do everything in my power to make sure Celine was comfortable.
Time Jump - Six Months Later
Jace POV:
A week after my mom was admitted into the hospital Clary had set up a room in her house like a hospital. I had gone back to my house and grabbed everything I could to make the room feel like home, so that when she does wake up she is familiar. I had gotten Izzy's number out of Clary's phone one day and I texted her asking if she could meet me at a coffee shop. I was fidgeting in my seat waiting for her to show up hoping that the cigarette would calm me down. Five minutes later she finally got there and I was relieved.
"Hey, what did you want to meet about?" She asks as she took a seat.
"I want to ask Clary to marry me." I said and her eyes widened. "But I don't have enough money to buy a ring, so I was planning on using my moms ring, but I want to get it cleaned, which again, I don't have the money for." I said and she looked confused. "I want to sell my house. It's not doing any good just sitting there and it will help me financially if I can stop paying the taxes and the mortgage. Clary mentioned that your brother boyfriend was in real-estate. Do you think he could help me out?"
"Of course. I'll give him a call, and I'll let you know."
"Thanks Iz. It means a lot."
"You make Clary extremely happy. I've never seen her this happy, and it shows in her artwork. You're good for each other." She said and I nodded. We sat there and finished our coffee, and than parted ways. I went back to my house and grabbed a few more things that I thought my mom would like, and than made my way back to Clary's. I loved living with her, and even though we started living together because of my mom, but it felt right.
Time Jump – Three Days Later
Jace POV:
Izzy had finally got back to me and I was meeting with the real-estate agent and I was nervous that he would tell me that the house wouldn't sell, but I would honestly take anything for the house. A car pulled up and a man walked out and came up to me.
"My name is Magnus Bane. I'm assuming you're Jace?" I nod. "This is the house you want to sell?"
"Yea. My mom is in a coma, and I am currently living with my girlfriend, and I can't afford it anymore."
"It's not in the best neighborhood, but I know someone is looking for a better house than the other run down ones around here. You've kept it in wonderful shape."
"I tried my best." I said and he nodded. We took the next two hours going over prices, and valuing the property and after he left I felt really good about the chances of it selling. I was going to miss this house. I grew up here, and leaving it was going to be hard, but I was ready.
Time Jump – Two Weeks Later
Clary POV:
I was in the middle of working on a painting, and suddenly Jace bursts through the door. I turn around and he has the biggest smile on his face. I loved him living with me. It was an amazing feeling waking up next to him every morning, and having him around.
"Hey, why do you look so happy?" I asked and he laughed as he kissed my forehead.
"I sold my house today." He said and I was shocked.
"I didn't even know you were looking to sell."
"I had ulterior motives, and honestly I didn't see the need to keep it since I moved in." He said and I couldn't help but smile.
"What are your ulterior motives?" I asked and he kneeled in front of me. He reached in his pocket and pulled out a ring. My hands went over my mouth and he smiled up at me.
"I wish I could have gotten you your own ring, but you know how tight I am on money, and this ring is my moms. I love you Clary, and I never thought that I'd be in this position again. I thought there wasn't another girl out there for me, but than you walked into my life and changed that. I don't want to spend another day not being tied to you, and I want you to be my wife, the mother of my children, and my absolute everything. So, Clarissa Adel Morgenstern, will you do the honor of marrying me?"
"Jace." I said as I looked at the ring. It was absolutely beautiful, and it was perfect. "I would be honored." I said. He slipped the ring on my finger and pressed his lips to mine. "This ring is beautiful."
"I'm glad you like it."
"I love it, and I love you." I said as I pressed my lips to his. "Wait until Izzy hears about this, she'll have a field day planning our wedding." I said and he laughed. I decided to forget the painting I was working on for right now, Jace and I were going to go out and celebrate. I made a reservation at a very high end restaurant and started getting dressed. I decided on a short black dress, with a low cut back, red high heels with my matching red lipstick. I walked out and Jace was standing in his all black suit and he looked damn good. I had my driver take us to the restaurant so that we could drink a whole bottle of Champaign and not have to worry about who was driving home.
We were seated and we immediately popped open a bottle and started drinking. We were having an amazing evening, we were talking about when we wanted to get married, if we wanted to wait and see if his mom was going to wake up, or if we wanted to get married right away and have a huge ceremony after she woke up. We were just throwing out ideas when we heard a voice we both didn't want to hear again.
"Jace?" We both turned around and Kaelie was standing right there.
"Yes?" He said and she walked closer to us.
"How are you?" She asks and I can tell that Jace is getting annoyed.
"Really? Come on Kaelie, you were never one for small talk." He said and she shrugged.
"You guys seemed to be celebrating something, and I guess my curiosity got the best of me." She said and I looked at Jace and than back at her.
"We're getting married." I said and her eyes got wide.
"Really?"
"Yea, he asked me this afternoon, I said yes, here we are." I said.
"Congratulations." She said, a little unenthusiastically.
"Seriously Kaelie, what do you want? I would really like to get back to a wonderful evening with my fiancé."
"I just wanted to come over and see you honestly. You never gave me a chance to apologize for what happened all those years ago."
"Why would I? You cheated on me, with my best friend." He said and she looked absolutely defeated.
"I never meant to hurt you Jace. Sebastian and I both felt this incredible pull towards each other, and we thought that we owed it to ourselves to see if there was something there, and after we did, we just couldn't stop."
"So why not just break off the engagement? You could have told me."
"I didn't want to hurt you. I loved you."
"You hurt me more by screwing my best friend behind my back."
"I don't have a reason why I did what I did. I just thought I owed you my sincerest apologies. I'm happy for you, both of you." She said and she walked away. Jace and I sat there for a moment in silence before I broke it.
"I guess you finally got your closure." I said and he smiled.
"I guess so, but once we got together I was no longer mad. I have something so much better, with someone who I love more than anything." He said and I leaned over the table and gave him a kiss.
"More Champaign?" I said and he smirked as he nodded. We got another bottle and continued with our night like nothing happened. We weren't going to let her ruin our evening. We were celebrating our marriage and we were going to have a great time.
Time Jump – One Year Later
Clary POV:
Jace and I had decided to get married at the courthouse and if his mother wakes up we were going to have a huge ceremony. I knew how important having his mother there was for him, and I wasn't going to make him go through a huge even like marriage without her. After all, we are married, but we're waiting to celebrate if Celine ever pulls through. Izzy was our witness, and we were married. Honestly, I just wanted to be married to him. I didn't care about the whole ceremony and color scheme, and dress. I just wanted to be his wife.
Things between Jace and I couldn't be more perfect. I had just had another business lunch with Izzy to discuss another potential client and honestly I was so exhausted. I was thinking about taking a break from painting for a while. I was drained and I think a break would be healthy for me. I haven't had one in forever, and its not like I was struggling for money. I had just walked into the door when I heard screaming. I immediately dropped my stuff and ran towards the commotion. Jace was on the ground being restrained by the hospital staff and screaming, and crying, something I've never seen from him. He was hysterical. I walked over and straddled his waist and grabbed his face so that he was looking at me. Once he saw me he started to calm down to the point where the hospital workers could release him. After a moment I spoke.
"What happened?" I ask and he looks at me.
"She died." He said and my breath caught. "I was sitting by her bed side and the heart monitor flat lined. They started CPR and brought in the paddles, and after 45 minutes they pronounced her dead." He said and I leaned down and rested my head on his shoulder. We stayed like that for a while until he was fully calm. We sat up, and he grabbed me and walked us to our room. We lay on the bed, completely silent. I knew this was hard for him. I didn't want to tell him that I was pregnant while he was so devastated but maybe it was exactly what he needed to hear. I propped myself up on my elbows and he looked towards me.
"Jace." I said.
"Yea baby?" He said and I couldn't help the smile.
"I'm pregnant." I said and he looked up with shock all over his face.
"You're pregnant?" He said and I nodded. "When did you find out?"
"A couple days ago."
"How far along are you?"
"The doctor said I should be nearing the end of the first trimester." I said and before I knew it his lips were on mine.
"We're going to have a baby." He said as he pulled away and I nodded.
"I didn't know if it was the right time to tell you after seeing you earlier, but I also thought that maybe it was exactly what you needed."
"It was exactly what I needed. I love you so much Clary."
"I love you too." I said and he pulled me into his side. I knew this was going to be hard for him, but I also knew that we were starting our family and that he was going to have something positive to help him through this hard time.
Time Jump – Six Months Later
Jace POV:
Clary was due any day now, and I was nervous as hell. One, we had no idea what we were having, so that was nerve-wracking all by itself, and two I had no idea how to be parent. I have no idea what I'm in store for, and that was freaking me out as well. Clary always reassured me that we would be okay, but that still didn't make the worry go away. I was sitting in the basement messing around on the piano when I got a text from Clary that said 'SOS. Baby coming.' And I sprinted upstairs. Izzy was with her, and we got her into the car and headed towards the hospital.
She was situated in her room, and now we played the waiting game. The doctor told us she would probably be in labor for several hours, and as much as that completely sucked it gave me a little more time to prepare myself for my child coming into the world. Clary was a champ. She was taking the pain in strides, and she wasn't complaining at all. She was talking to the baby, trying to convince him or her to come out. After about 6 hours the doctor told her it was time to push. She was so dilated by this point that it only took maybe 45 minutes of pushing before cries filled the room. I leaned down and kissed Clary. A moment later the nurse turned around and handed us a baby bundled in a pink blanket. She handed her to Clary and she started crying.
"Welcome to the world Shannon Celine Herondale." She said and I nearly cried at the sound of my mothers name. We had agreed that if it was a girl we'd name her after my mom, but now looking down at my baby, I couldn't help but be filled with all different kinds of emotions. Today was an amazing day, and I couldn't wait to experience parenthood with Clary.
Time Jump – Six Months Later
Clary POV:
"Are you sure about this Clary? Once you do it, you can't take it back." Izzy asks and I know she's just double-checking but this is like the fourth time she's asked me.
"I'm positive. I am tired of signing all my pieces with Morgenstern, I want to sign my name. I want Clarissa Herondale on all of my artworks. I want the world to know that I'm married, and that I'm happy. I want to be able to host a gallery that's dedicated to my family. And if I keep my identity a secret, I can't do that. It's been almost 15 years, I'm tired of hiding." I said and she nodded.
"I'll start organizing the guest list with all your most loyal clients, and some new clients, and I'll send the invitations out right away."
"Thank you Izzy." I said and I went to go find Jace and Shannon. They were in the living room playing with blocks. I sat down beside them and Jace kissed my cheek.
"Another business meeting?" He asks and I shake my head.
"Nope. I've decided to come out to the world. I don't want to keep my identity a secret anymore."
"Why not?"
"Because I want to be able to sign my artwork with 'Clarissa Herondale', I want to dedicate an entire collection to my family, and I can't do that with my identity a secret."
"Are you sure? You're giving up your privacy."
"I'm positive. I'll need to double security, but I'm so tired of hiding my inspiration from the world." I said and he gave me another kiss.
"So, how are you going to out yourself?"
"I'm throwing a ball, and telling all my major clients." I said and Shannon started crawling towards me.
"Sounds good. Are me and the little princess invited?" He asked and I laughed.
"You two are my honored guests." I said and he scooted closer to me and pulled me into his side. This was the right move. I was tired of hiding, and I was proud of my family, and it's time the world know who my inspiration is, and how they motivate me every single day.
Time Jump – Ball
Clary POV:
All of the guests had gotten here some time ago, but I haven't made an appearance because I'm so nervous. Although nobody knows who I am yet, it's still very nerve wrecking. There was a knock on the door and Jace walked in with Shannon. I couldn't help but smile. They looked so good. Shannon was dressed in a cute red dress, and Jace was sporting an all black suit. He walked over and gave me a kiss.
"Are you ready?" He asks and I look at him and than at Shannon.
"Yes." I said and he grabbed my hand and we started walking towards the party. I had recognized a bunch of the people here. I had been painting for them for years. I also saw some new faces. Some that I have only painted one or two things for.
This ball was like all the other ones that I have hosted. There were samples of my painting hung all around. There was food and drinks, a band, and standing tables for guests to stand at and eat or converse. Shannon was on her best behavior tonight, which I was thankful for. She could be very rambunctious when she was bored, but she was distracted by all the people and the music. We were walking around showing Shannon the paintings when we heard a voice that we really didn't want too, but apparently we can never escape them.
"Jace." We heard and turned around to find Sebastian and Kaelie standing there.
"What a surprise." Jace said and I couldn't help but laugh.
"A surprise this is. And I see you have an addition." Sebastian said and right on cue Shannon laughed.
"Yes, this is Shannon. She's 8 months old. She's my pride and joy." Jace and I couldn't help but smile. Sebastian was about to say something when Izzy started talking into the microphone. We smiled at them and walked towards the area where everyone was congregating.
"Good evening everyone. I can only imagine what you all are thinking. This ball was very unexpected but Clarissa has an announcement that she wants to make to all of her loyal clients. So, without further ado, may I present Miss. Clarissa Morgenstern." She said and everyone clapped. I gave Jace and Shannon a kiss and made my way up on stage.
"Hello everyone. I know I've met all of you at one point or another and I introduced myself as Clary Fray, but that wasn't true. My name is Clarissa Morgenstern, and I'm the host of these balls." I said and everyone was shocked. "I never wanted to host these things, Izzy always told me that it would mean the world to my clients, and show them that I care, and I do care, but I have never wanted to be in the spot light. So my identity was kept anonymous and I came to mingle without all the added pressure. I hope you can all forgive me." I said and everyone was clapping.
"But Miss. Morgenstern." Someone called from the back. "Why did you decide now to let us know who you are?"
"My life has changed a lot in the last couple years. I got married, I had a baby, and one day I hope to open up a gallery that dedicated to them. I want the world to know who my inspiration is, who motivates me every day to keep painting."
"Are they here?" A woman called out and I nodded.
"Yes. Come and join me." I said and Jace made his way up to the stage. "This is my husband Jace, and our daughter Shannon. These two are my life, and they are what keeps me going when I feel like I have no more left. I'll always keep painting, but instead of Clarissa Morgenstern being on your work, I will now sign everything as Clarissa Herondale." I said and everyone clapped. Jace and I made our way down to the rest of the people and some came up and asked me some questions but everyone else went back to what they were doing.
The rest of the night went by wonderfully. Jace and I danced, and mingled and by the time 10 rolled around, Shannon was already asleep and we decided to head home. When we got home we put Shannon done, and got into bed. We curled together and formed to each others bodies perfectly. Jace leaned down and pressed his lips to the top of my head.
"I love you Jace."
"I love you too Clary." He said and I rested my head on his chest, and thought back on how my life turned out. I was married to an amazing man, I had the best daughter in the world, and I was now no longer living in secret. Everything was going perfectly, and I couldn't imagine life without him.
Authors Note:
This one shot was requested by AnnaP2365, and I took your idea and changed a few things, but I generally kept it the same! I hope you like where I took your idea, and that you like it as much as I do! Let me know what you all think! Either shoot me a message or leave a review if you have an ideas! :)
