Thirty Fourth One Shot:

Shy

Clary POV:

I've always been the shy girl. No matter where I was. My old school I was the shy freak, and when I transferred to this school, I was the shy freak again. I guess I have nobody to blame but myself. I didn't care for socialization. I just wanted to learn, and graduate. After all, after high school I was just going to be plucked from my fabulous life of invisibility and thrust into my fathers world.

Valentine Morgenstern can be described as multiple things, but kind isn't one of them. At least to the outside world. We had a different relationship than more father and daughters but we made it work. He was a cold, and calculated businessman who always always always put business first. I've been working for him since I was 15, and once I graduate I'll be thrown into his work so I can one day take over the company. This was never my idea. I wanted to go to college and be an artist, like my mother, but when my brother was arrested for attempted murder (against me) it threw a fork in my fathers plan. Now, I am the heir to Morgenstern Industries, and I wasn't happy about it.

Thankfully no body knew who I really was. My mother never wanted me to have to face the ridicule of other kids so my last name is Fray, so nobody could put two and two together. It gave me my own identity, and maybe that was invisibility, but I'd rather be invisible, than have a lot of fake friends who only want me in their life because I'll be a millionaire one day.

It was a normal Tuesday, and I had my free period. It wasn't really free though, my father had 'convinced' the school to allow me to take college level classes along with my high school classes so that I would be ahead of the game. I'm pretty sure he paid them off, but here I was taking Business 252, in my free time. By the time I graduate high school I'll be at the level of a junior in college, and I'll be graduating a couple months after that. I liked school, it gave me something to focus on, and made it easier to get through the day. I was constantly busy, and knowing that once I graduate high school, I'll be six months away from also graduating college. It was weird, but I'd be a full time employee for my father, and that's what he wanted. I was in an empty classroom, when the door was slammed opened and in stumbled Jace and Kaelie sucking each other's faces. I rolled my eyes and watched as he slammed her against the door. Her shirt was almost over her head when I realized I had enough. I cleared my throat and they broke apart.

"Didn't realize this classroom was occupied." Kaelie said and I sighed and started gathering my books.

"For future reference, I have this classroom Tuesday through Thursday at this time. So plan accordingly." I said and I heard Jace laugh.

"Aren't you supposed to be in class?" He says and I laugh.

"I was, but it was interrupted by two incredibly horny teenagers who couldn't wait an hour to go home and have sex in a bed." I said and I saw Jace smirk and Kaelie looked pissed. I may be shy but there was something about Kaelie that really got under my skin, and I refused to shrink in fear in front of her.

"Shut it freak. Just because I am getting some from him and you aren't doesn't give you the right to judge me."

"I hate to break it to you babe, but you're not the only one getting some from him. Last week he stumbled into a janitors closet with a brunette." I said and Jace's eyes widened and Kaelie turned red with anger.

"You're cheating on me?" She yelled and I smiled.

"We aren't in a relationship Kaelie." Jace said and I put on my coat.

"It was lovely seeing you two again, but I see you two clearly have some issues you need to discuss, so I'll see you around." I said as I walked out. The final bell rang and I grabbed my books and headed for my car. When I got to the parking lot Kaelie was still lecturing Jace. It was amusing to see. I mean, he couldn't expect his playboy ways to stay hidden forever. I got to my car and his eyes locked on mine. I smiled, got into my car and drove to my fathers office. I walked in, went straight to the bathroom, changed into my normal pencil skirt, purple blouse, and black heels and headed towards my office. There was a stack of files on my desk and I sighed. I took a seat, and started sifting through them. Today, was going to be a long day.

Jace POV:

I couldn't believe Ginger would rat me out like that. I mean, who does she think she is judging my lifestyle? Kaelie wouldn't leave me alone until I literally got into my car and drove away. She had transferred to my school sophomore year, and she doesn't have any friends. She doesn't play any sports. She doesn't talk in front of large crowds. I mean, I've seen her talk to like maybe 4 people max at a time. She just doesn't socialize. I mean, that's what high school is. How can she be such a loner? When I got home my mother and father were sitting in the living room for me.

"What's going on?" I ask and my father motions me to take a seat.

"Jace, you're failing two of your business classes." My dad says and I sigh. I thought I got the letter before they did. "We made a deal with the principal, but you have to follow through, otherwise, you won't graduate."

"What's the deal?"

"Valentine Morgenstern, you will intern at his office until the end of the year, and if him and his right hand decide you've completed the necessary requirements, you pass both your classes." My father says and I sigh. It could be worse I guess.

"Okay. When do I start?"

"Tomorrow. Right after school." My mom says and I nod. I get up and make it to my room and lay on my bed. I guess my extra curricular activities are going to be put on hold now.

Time Jump - Next Day

Clary POV:

I was sitting in my office when I heard a knock on the door, and it opens. I look up to see my father, and he has his business face on.

"Clarissa, the intern is here. He's in the conference room. I have to make a quick stop to HR, but I should be there shortly. Would you mind giving him his contract, and providing him with the detailed summary of his job?"

"Of course father." I said. He closes my door and I grab the new employee file. My father goes through interns like crazy, so I keep a bunch of extra already put together files just in case. I fix my outfit and head towards the conference room. I see the back of a mans head, and I take a deep breath, and walk in. "Hello, my name is Clarissa, welcome to Morgenstern Industries." I say as I turn around and am greeted by Jace. "What the hell."

"What are you doing here?" He asks and I wave him off. I put the file down in front of him.

"This is the details of your job here. You will be the intern for Valentine's team. That includes, Valentine himself, Luke, Alaric, Maryse, and me." I said and his eyes shoot up to mine.

"You?" He says but I ignore him.

"There is a contract in there. Read through it carefully, and sign at the bottom." I said and he nods. "Failure to do any part of your job is followed by immediate termination. You have any problems with the contract or questions, my office is down the hall and to the right. My assistant Helen is the one with the blue desk, you get lost, find her and she'll direct you." I said and I stood. "Valentine should be in momentarily." I make a beeline for the door before he can even say a word. I make it back to my office and finally take a deep breath. I tried so hard to keep my school life and my home life separate, but here they are colliding, and it had to be with Jace Herondale?

Jace POV:

Clary left the room and I was stunned. What the hell was she doing here? She has an office? And an assistant? And I have to work for her? None of this made any sense. She was so commanding, and in a position of power. Don't get me wrong, it was extremely hot, but it still didn't answer any of my questions. A minute later the door opened again and in walked a tall man.

"Jonathan, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"I prefer to be called Jace sir." I said and he took a seat.

"I don't waste time with nicknames." He said and I nodded. "I'm assuming Clarissa told you what's in the file?"

"Yes sir."

"Good. I'm doing this because your father and I are old friends. Don't screw this up. I put aside a lot of good candidates for you and I expect you to be on time, efficient, and not to give me any attitude. My daughter goes to your school, and I know you can be quite troublesome. Don't make me regret giving you this opportunity." He said and all I could do was nod. "I need you to go to Clarissa's office and ask her for the files regarding Blackthorn and Company and bring them to my office."

"Of course." I said and I got up and started making my way to Clarissa's office. I found it pretty easily and I knocked on the door. I heard a faint come in and when I walked in Clary's eyes met mine.

"Yes?"

"Valentine wants the files on Blackthorn and Company." I said and she nods. She reaches into her desk and pulls out four thick files.

"Tell him that my personal opinion is that Blackthorn is well on his way to bankruptcy, and it's time to let them go." I grab the folders and nod. I make my way to the door before I turn around.

"Clary." I said and she looked up. "Where is Valentines office?"

"Make a left, and go straight. You can't miss the giant V on the door."

"Thanks." She nods and I walk out. This experience was going to be one hell of a ride, but it gave me more of an insight to Clary, and I was finally going to be able to crack her open.

Time Jump - Weekend

Jace POV:

I've been working for Valentine for a couple days and I was exhausted. Business was nothing like what they taught you in business classes. There were so many rules that were unwritten and sometimes it was extremely hard to keep up. Clary and Valentine were an unstoppable team. I had only been there for a couple days and I had seen them let go four companies and take on six more. They were a powerhouse, and I understood why this business was thriving. Valentine really seemed to value Clary's opinion. She was the one making most of the shots, and I was completely impressed. She was a completely different person than she was at school. It was like night and day, and I think I preferred her in the night most of all. We had been caught working well into the night some nights, and even though I hate to admit it, Clary was actually really fun to hang out with. She had a great sense of humor, and she always matched my sarcastic remark with an equally if not better sarcastic remark. Seeing her at school, and than seeing her later at the office was mind blowing, and I was determined to find out more about her, and her secret double life.

I showed up at my buddy Sebastian's party and was ready to get wasted and fuck some random chick. I was stressed, and between work and school, I was in need of a good fuck. I immediately got a beer, grabbed a girl and started dancing. Eight beers in and I was finally starting to feel something. The girl grinding on me was hot as hell, and I figured she would be good in bed. I downed the beer in my hand and than pressed my lips to her ear.

"Wanna go somewhere more private?" I whispered and I felt her nod. I grabbed her hand and made my way to the guest room. I didn't bother looking at her, or knowing her name. Once we were in the room, I slammed my lips against hers. Before I knew it, our clothes were gone and we were in bed. I needed tonight, and after we were done I felt all of the stress leave my body.

I woke up the next day with a massive headache. The girl was gone, and I was back in my room. I had no idea how I got here but I wasn't complaining. I checked my phone and realized it was almost 3 in the afternoon. I guess after my little stress release I went back to party but I just can't remember. I walked downstairs and saw my parents sitting in the kitchen looking pissed.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"What's wrong? Are you kidding me? We got a call at 4 this morning from a guy named Sebastian saying you were drunk out of your mind at his house and needed to be picked up. What the hell were you thinking Jonathan?" My mom scolded me.

"I swear, I don't remember drinking that much." I said and I guess it was the wrong thing to say cause she just got even more pissed.

"You are going to screw up your life Jace. Not only are you not old enough to drink, but you insisted on driving home last night. Do you know how terrible that would have been if your friend hadn't called? Not to mention the half naked girl you had on your lap when we showed up. Honestly, you are going to get someone pregnant that way. Do you not care about your future whatsoever?" My mother spat and I hung my head. I knew I fucked up this time, and I didn't even have a good excuse.

"I'm sorry." Was all I could say.

"Honestly Jace, what has gotten into you? You have never, and I mean never, done anything like that before."

"I guess I've just been stressed. Working for Valentine is insane. You know how late I've had to stay there sometimes, and finally having a day off got to me, and I went all out. I promise, it won't happen again."

"Damn right it won't." My mother said and I nodded. I got up, kissed her on the cheek and left the room. I wasn't going to screw up again. I knew that for sure.

Time Jump - Christmas Time

Clary POV:

"Clarissa, meet me in my office in 5 minutes." My father said and I nodded. I had no idea what this was about but I got up and made my way to his office. When I got in there I took a seat and waited for him to speak. "I want to invite Jonathan and his parent to the annual winter ball. I think Stephan and Celine would appreciate a visit from you. I've talked about you often, but they never had the opportunity to meet you."

"Of course." I said and he handed me the envelope. "I'll go over after I finish my paperwork." He nods and I head back to my office. I prayed to god that Jace wasn't there.

I finished my work a little later than expected and by this time Jace had already left, so I knew that he was going to be home when I visited. I took a deep breath, got in my car and headed towards his house.

Jace POV:

We had just finished having dinner when the doorbell rang.

"I'll get it." I called and made my way to the door. When I opened it up, I was shocked at who was there. "What are you doing here Clary? Miss me already?" I smirked but she didn't look amused.

"I'm actually here to see your parents." She said and I motioned for her to come in.

"Mom, dad. You have a visitor." I said and they made their way into the foyer.

"Hi, my name is Clarissa, and I'm Valentines daughter." Clary said and my jaw dropped. "My father wanted to personally invite you to his companies annual winter ball." She said as she handed them the invitation.

"My my dear, you look just like Jocelyn." My mother said and I saw Clary flinch at the mention of her. "We're so sorry for your loss. She was a dear friend."

"Thank you. Uh, the invitation is for you three but if Jace wants to bring a plus one, just scribble it down, and let me know." She said and they nodded. "I should be going."

"I'll walk you out." I said and I got strange looks from my parents but I ignored them, and led Clary to the door. I opened my mouth to say something but she cut me off.

"I'd appreciate if you kept this information to yourself." She said and I nodded. "I'll see you tomorrow." And with that she left. I shut the door and when I turned around my parents were there.

"You like her don't you." My mom said and I shook my head. "Don't lie to me Jonathan, I can read you like a book. My son would never walk a girl to the door." She said and I hung my head. "That girl has had a hard life, don't mess with her heart."

"She's the daughter of a millionaire, how hard can her life be?" I said.

"Don't judge a book by its cover. Get to know her." My father said and they both left, my mom turned around before following my father.

"So I'm guessing you won't be bringing a plus one?" She said and I smiled. She nodded and left the room. I went up to my room and sat at my desk and took everything in.

Time Jump - Ball

Clary POV:

I was absolutely dreading this ball. The only good thing was that I got to see Alec, Izzy and Simon. Although they are a couple years older, I always hung out with them during company events and I haven't seen them in awhile. I got to the hotel where it was being held and when I walked in and put my things on the table I noticed we were seated with the Herondales. Just my luck.

An hour later everyone started showing up and taking there seats. When Jace walked in my breath literally got caught in my throat. He looked gorgeous, and my heart started racing. Getting to know him outside of school was different, and I actually liked who he was when he wasn't surrounded by sluts and his idiot friends. His mom greeted me with a hug and I smiled at his father. We all took our seats when my father got up and stayed talking.

"Welcome everybody. I would like to thank you for being able to attend tonight. As you all know, these balls were my wife's idea." He said and I took a deep breath. "And although she is no longer with us, the tradition will always continue. Tonight is a special night for me because I would like to introduce you all to my successor." He looked down at me and smiled. I stood up and made my way up to him. "Clarissa has been getting to know the business for about 4 years now, and I can honestly say that she has really gotten the hang of the way things run. She's a phenomenal business woman, and I know that leaving the company in her hands is the best decision. Of course I won't be leaving until I can't physically walk anymore, but it's always great knowing I have such a great successor waiting in the wings." He said and everyone clapped. "Would you like to share a few words Clarissa?" He said and I nodded.

"It's an honor to be so highly thought of when it comes to my father. Knowing he trusts his most precious creation in my hands is truly and honor. I know many of you are worried because I am only 18, but I promise, I will do everything in my power to make sure Morgenstern Industries remains the company it is today." I finished and everyone clapped. "I hope you all enjoy the rest of your evening." I said and I made my way back to the table.

Dinner was absolutely delicious, and it was great to hear some stories about my father and mother. I have heard my father mention Stephan a few times, but I didn't know how close they were until this dinner.

After our tables were cleared the music picked up and people made their way out onto the dance floor. I remembered these things from before my mom passed, and I remember dancing with her. It brought back a flood of memories that made me happy but incredibly sad that I no longer got to share this experience with her.

Jace POV:

I couldn't take my eyes off Clary all night. She was absolutely stunning, and I just wanted to take her in my arms and never let her go. When the dancing started I figured it was my one chance to get close to her but when I finally got the courage to ask a boy came up and tapped her on the shoulder and asked her to dance. She looked so excited and immediately got up. I watched them dancing for a couple minutes before a girl asked to cut in. The boy proceeded to twirl Clary into the arms of another guy. She looked absolutely carefree and I wish I could be the one making her laugh. After a couple minutes of dancing with this boy, another boy tapped on her shoulder and asked to cut in. She gave them both a kiss on the cheek and made it back over to the table. She had the biggest smile on her face, ad I just couldn't get past the fact that I wasn't the one who gave it to her. I stood up and walked over to her and cleared my throat.

"Would you like to dance?" I asked as I reached out my hand. She smiled, nodded, and took my hand. I led her out to the dance floor and we started dancing. We didn't talk, we swayed with the music, but it wasn't uncomfortable, it was familiar. Something about it felt so natural, and when the music ended and we broke apart, Clary looked at me and than immediately walked away. I had no idea what happened but I followed her out onto the balcony. She was leaning on the railing, and I could see the goose bumps on her arms. I took my jacket off and draped it over her shoulders.

"Thanks." She said and her voice was strained.

"You okay?"

"I'm fine."

"Clary?"

"What? What do you want me to say Jace?"

"Anything. Tell me what's going on in your head. Why you ran away after our dance. Honestly, I'll take whatever you give me right now." I pleaded and she looked up at me.

"I don't know what to say Jace. Other than the fact that being that close, and being held in your arms felt incredibly comfortable and familiar and it scared me." She said and I was glad I wasn't the only one who felt it.

"It felt comfortable and familiar to me too." I said as I leaned against the railing next to her. I saw her shiver and without a thought I pulled her close and she sank into my embrace. "You're going to freeze out here."

"I just needed some air." She said and I nodded.

"Come on, lets go back inside. How about we try that dance again, and we can talk?"

"Okay." She said and I led her back inside. We got back on the dance floor and I pulled her close and we started dancing. "What do you want to talk about?"

"I'll be completely blunt, who were those guys you were dancing with earlier?" I asked and she laughed.

"They are kids of Maryse's plus their significant others. Simon, the one with the glasses is Izzy's fiancé. They just got engaged. And Alec, he is the oldest Lightwood, and the sparkly guy is his husband. I've known them since I was a kid. We always hang out during these functions." She says and I nod and a smile breaks out across her face. "Were you jealous?"

"No." I answer too quickly and she laughs.

"You so were." She says and I just shake my head.

"How does it feel being the up and coming CEO for your fathers company?" I asked changing the subject.

"It's intimidating, but he's been preparing me for this for years. I'm ready whenever he's ready to step down."

"That's a lot of pressure."

"It was in the beginning. This was supposed to be my brother, but circumstances didn't allow for that, and I'm the only other child."

"You have a brother?" I ask and she nods. "Is he here?" She shakes her head. "Well, where is he?"

"Jail." She says and I sigh.

"I'm sorry."

"Not your fault. Can we not talk about this." She asks and I nod. "So, what about you? How do you like working for my father?"

"It's a lot different than I thought. It's nothing like what they try and teach you in school."

"I know. Everything I've learned is because of practical application, not what I read in a book."

"It has helped me though."

"How so?"

"I didn't know what I wanted to do after high school, but I think I'd really like to go into the business world. I like the challenges it's presents."

"That's great. Where do you want to go to college?"

"NYU. It's local. I can commute which takes a lot of the money burden off my parents." I say and she nods. "What about you?"

"Oh, I graduate in a year."

"No, I mean for college."

"I know. I graduate college next year."

"How?"

"I've been taking classes all throughout high school. This time next year I'll be a college graduate." She said and my jaw dropped.

"You're a nerd." I said and her eyes hardened. "I didn't mean anything bad about it, I meant to say you're smart. I'm sorry."

"Don't worry about it. School was always the one thing I excelled at, and having so much work gave me something to focus on." She said and I nodded.

"Why are you so closed off at school?" I ask and she laughs.

"Just because I haven't stuck my tongue down every guys throat, doesn't make me closed off. It just doesn't make me a whore."

"You think I'm a whore?" I ask.

"I do. I've seen you messing around with almost every girl at that school. And I've only been there for two years."

"But I have other friends."

"Yes. The dumb jocks you hang out with." She says and I can't object. They are pretty stupid. "All your friends are exactly the same. They thrive on the attention they get from girls, while they try and prey on the innocent girls for the thrill of a challenge." She says and I raise and eyebrow.

"Speaking from experience?" I hesitantly ask and she sighs.

"You're friend Sebastian can be extremely persistent, and he doesn't like the word no." She said and I gripped her a little too tightly. "Ow."

"Sorry. I had no idea." I said and she shook it off.

"He got the hint after I kneed him in the balls and he was out of football for a week with bruised balls."

"That was you?" I asked through laughter, and she nods. "He said a girl sucked him off so hard they were bruised."

"Yea well, how many people would admit to getting kneed by me?" She said and I laughed.

"I am sorry for him though. I know he can be a real asshole."

"So why do you hang out with him?"

"We've been friends since elementary school. It's just what I'm used too." I said and she nodded. "Look, I know I am not the poster boy for good behavior, but at least you know who I really am."

"Do I now?" She asks and I nod.

"I've been more real with you since working at your fathers business than I ever have been with anyone in my life."

"Why don't you be the real you at school?" She asks and I shrug. "Ah, you want to be popular, and the nice and sweet Jace won't get all the bitches and respect as the playboy asshole you pretend to be?"

"I guess."

"It's a shame really, I like this you so much better." She said and than the music ended. Everyone took their seats and I wanted to keep talking but Valentine was making his way up to the podium. I tuned him out and kept my focus on Clary. She was so different, and I couldn't help but want to get to know her, and be near her, but I didn't know how to make her believe that I wasn't that guy anymore.

Time Jump – Three Weeks Before Prom

Jace POV:

Prom was at the end of this month, and I was determined to ask Clary. Kaelie kept talking about how much fun we were going to have, but hasn't gotten the hint that I wasn't going to ask her. Most of the time I tuned her out when she talked to me. Clary and I don't really talk in school, mostly because she is in all advanced classes, and I'm not, but I'd see her around and she'd avoid eye contact, and it hurt. I wanted her to know that I was serious in the way that I like her, and that I wasn't going to be that asshole anymore. I haven't even hooked up with a girl since that winter ball her father hosted. It felt wrong just looking at a girl when I liked Clary. It was a new experience, and it scared me but I wanted to see where it went.

Clary POV:

I was taking my books out of my locker for my next class when I was bumped from behind causing all of my books and papers to spill all over the floor.

"Oops, I didn't see you there." Kaelie said and I rolled my eyes. Her posse was laughing behind her and she had the fakest smile.

"I know I'm short, but my hair is basically a fire signal." I said and her smile left her face and was replaced with a scowl. "What do you want anyway?"

"Jace is mine." She spats and now I'm confused.

"Okay?"

"Don't play dumb. I know he's into you. He watches you all the time, and I know he constantly looks for you, but he's mine. So back off freak." She says and she turns and walks around the corner. I shake my head and start gathering my things. I had no idea what she was talking about. Jace didn't like me, I mean we don't interact in school so nobody even knew we were even semi friends.

When I got to the office later I went straight to my office and there was a note on the desk.

Need more paper in conference room A, I would ask someone else but I was already passing your office. Hope that's alright.

V.

I sighed and went to the nearest closet but when I opened the door I was dragged in by someone and I was really confused. When I turned on the light Jace was standing in front of me.

"I should have known my dad wouldn't leave that note." I said and he smiled. "What do you want? And why couldn't you just come to my office and talk to me?" I said but he didn't say a word. He leaned down and pressed his lips to mine, and I was shocked but man was he a good kisser. I gave into him and started kissing him back. His hands were on my waist gripping me like I was going to leave, and I tangled my hands into his hair. After what seemed like forever we broke apart. I looked into his golden eyes and they seemed to be sparkling. "Why did you do that?"

"Because I know what Kaelie did to you today." He said and I took a deep breath. "I'm not hers. Despite what she thinks, I never was, and never will be."

"Why are you telling me this?" I ask and he takes my hands in his.

"Because ever since that ball I have been entirely yours." He says and I suck in a breath.

"But…" I start but I can't get any more words out.

"I know it's probably hard for you to believe me, but it's the truth. I haven't kissed anyone, hooked up, with anyone, hell I haven't even flirted with anyone since I realized that I wanted to be with you." He said and everything he was saying was catching me by surprise. "I didn't know how else to tell you than to be completely and 100% honest with you. I knew you'd most likely believe me more if I told you here, than if I talked to you about it in school." He steps closer to me and I can smell the peppermint on his breath. "I want you to be my date to the prom Clary, and I want you to be my girlfriend. I want to be able to hold your hand, and kiss you whenever I want because after that kiss I don't think I can look at you without wanting to kiss you." I think about it for a minute before I finally decide.

"You can't be this guy just around here though. You have to be this guy at school too. I'm not dealing with asshole Jace for half the day and than you suddenly flip a switch because you aren't around your friends anymore."

"I promise. I will not treat you like shit, and I will never disrespect you, or let anyone else treat you like shit or disrespect you either."

"Okay."

"To which part?"

"All of it." I said and he wrapped his arms around my waist and picked me up in a hug. "Kaelie is going to be pissed. I got a warning with my little push today."

"What did she say to you?"

"She told me to back off." I said and he sighed.

"Tell me if she does that again, and I'll set her straight." He said and I smiled and nodded.

"I have to get back to work, and I'm pretty sure my father has a meeting today and that you have to attend, and you know how my father feels about being punctual." I said and he gave me a quick kiss before leaving the storage closet. That might take me a while to get used to, but I wasn't complaining.

Time Jump – Next Day

Clary POV:

Today was completely different because of what happened yesterday with Jace. Although we didn't see each other most of the day, he asked me to meet him in the caf, and I'm not going to lie, I was nervous. I believed Jace, and I don't know what I'd do if he lied to me as some sick joke or prank. I walked into the caf and I saw Jace standing talking to some guy and I made my way over to him when I tripped over something and fell to the ground. I looked up and saw Kaelie laughing.

"Oops." She said and everyone laughed. "Didn't see you there freak." She said and I was about to get up when I was lifted off the ground by Jace.

"You okay?" He asked and I nodded.

"What the hell Jace?" Kaelie said and Jace stood in front of me. "Why are you helping the freak? You're mine."

"Give it up Kaelie, I'm not yours. I never have been. I never wanted to be, and I'd appreciate if you'd leave Clary alone."

"Since when did you get all buddy buddy with the freak?" She spat and I saw Jace's fist clench. I grabbed it and he immediately relaxed.

"Apologize." Jace said through gritted teeth.

"No. Not until you tell me what the hell is going on." She yelled and we had the whole caf's attention. Jace was glaring at her, and I figured he wasn't going to tell her so I started walking away when Jace grabbed my hand and pulled me into a kiss. I heard gasps from all around but in that moment all I cared about was that Jace was telling me the truth the other day, and I knew that he meant every single word he said. When we broke apart he put his arm around my shoulders and pulled me into his side.

"Apologize to my girlfriend, or you'll be sorry." Jace said in a menacing voice, that almost scared me.

"Ugh." She screamed and stormed away. The whole cafeteria was silent for a moment after she left.

"Let's get out of here." Jace whispered and I nodded and we left the caf in complete confusion. When we finally got into the hallway I was able to breath. I leaned against the lockers and Jace put his hands on either side of me. "Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yea. Not the first time I've had to deal with her." I said and I smiled. He leaned down and pecked my lips and I let out a relieved breath.

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be. It wasn't your fault."

"But it kinda is. She wouldn't be treating you like this if it wasn't for me." He said and I shrugged.

"You can't help who stalks you." I said and he laughed.

"How about we ditch the rest of the day?" He said and I thought about it for a moment. I had two back to back free periods, so I didn't mind missing out on them.

"Sure." I said and he grabbed my hand and we made our way out to the parking lot and got into my car. "Where too?"

"How about coffee?" He said and I nodded and started making our way to a coffee shop. When we got in and ordered our drinks we sat down. "I'd like to know a little more about you Clary."

"What do you want to know?"

"Your mom." He said and I flinched. She was sore subject. "What happened to her?"

"Car accident when I was 13. She was on life support for four days before she died."

"I'm so sorry."

"It was hard. But despite how cold my father can seem, he really helped me through it." I said and he nodded.

"And your brother?" He asked and I figured it'd be best to just tell him the truth now.

"Jail."

"How long has he been there?"

"4 years."

"Why?"

"He really lost it when mom died. Started hanging out with the wrong people, getting into trouble, getting arrested. My dad tried everything he could to get him out of whatever trouble he ended up in until one day it was just too much."

"What's he in for?"

"Attempted murder, attempted rape, and assault with a deadly weapon."

"Holy shit. Who pissed him off that badly?"

"Me." I said and his eyes widened.

"Those were all against you?" He asked and I nodded. "Why?"

"I reminded him of our mother. He came home one night higher than a kite, and grabbed a hammer from the garage. Hit me over the head with it. I knocked right out. I woke up to him on top of me. I didn't have a shirt on, and my pants were halfway down. When I realized what was happening. I put up one hell of a fight. He didn't like it. He smashed a vase on the ground, picked up a shard of glass and started to slit my throat." I said and I showed him the faint line. "The crash woke my dad up and he came down just in time to throw him off of me, and call the police. He was sentenced to 25 to life without the possibility of parole."

"That's insane."

"Yea. After a year a therapy, my father started me in the family business, and I've been focusing on that ever since." He reached over and grabbed one of my hands.

"I'm so sorry Clary."

"That's why I guess I close myself off. It's why my we moved. Everyone at my last school knew what happened to him, they didn't know it was against me, but it was hard to go back to school."

"I can imagine." He said and I smiled.

"It's all in the past now though. It might not seem it because he likes to be professional at work, but my dad and I are really close, and we have each other and that's all we need."

"You have me now." He said and I smiled. I leaned over the table and gave him a kiss.

"That's right." I said and we spent the rest of the time talking about random things, until we had to go to work. Talking about these things with Jace was easy and I knew he wasn't judging me, and he listened, and I couldn't thank him enough for that simple gesture.

Time Jump – One Week Before Graduation

Jace POV:

Prom was absolutely amazing, and Clary and I had an amazing time. We were the talk of the school, but I didn't care because I was happy, and I was falling in love with Clary. I was graduating and probably not going to see any of these people ever again, so I didn't care what they talked about.

Today was the day that I got my progress report on how I did at Morgenstern Industries that lets me know if I'll be graduating or not and I was a nervous wreck. The principal was there, Valentine was there, Clary was there, my parents were there. I had no idea how well Valentine thought I did, but if I didn't graduate I was going to be pissed. I had finally found happiness, and got my head out of my ass, and not graduating would really suck. We were all sitting around the conference table when Valentine and Clary walked in.

"Thank you all for attending. I know you are anxiously waiting to hear my thoughts on how well Jonathan did here, but I am not the deciding factor in his case." Valentine said and I was extremely confused. "Clarissa was actually the head honcho when it came to Jonathan's progress." He said and my eyes snapped to her. I was a little annoyed she never mentioned that, but I guess she wanted to keep her biased aside and I respected that. "Clarissa?" He gestured and she stood in front of the room.

"After monitoring the progress of Jonathan, and going over everything he's assisted with and the suggestions he's made for the benefit of the company, I think he has shown a lot of potential in the business world." He said and I let out a breath. "I've realized that Jonathan does better when he is under pressure, and able to apply techniques in real life circumstances rather than in a controlled environment." She said and I smiled. "Which is why I am offering you a permanent job at Morgenstern Industries."

"What?" Everyone in the room said in union except Valentine.

"Valentine and I have been discussing it for a few weeks now, and we think your perspective on things is just what we need around here. Of course, you'll have to complete college while working here, but once you have your degree, you are more than welcome to accept our offer or look for other offers."

"Can I accept now?" I said and she laughed and nodded.

"Of course." She said and I jumped up and swung her around completely forgetting who was in the room. When I put her down the principal didn't look pleased.

"Clarissa, did you say those things because you are involved with Mr. Herondale?" He questioned and before Clary or I could protest Valentine stepped in.

"What Clarissa stated about Jonathan was everything I would have said myself. He is a brilliant student, and the actions that my daughter and Jonathan engage in outside of this building no way influenced what she said today in the office. I would be happy to write up a written statement confirming everything she just said." The principal nodded and Valentine walked them out, which left my parents, Clary and I. My mom came up and hugged both of us and she had the biggest smile on her face.

"I'm proud of you Jace, I knew you always had it in you." She said and I gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Will you be home for dinner?"

"Yea."

"You too Clary." She said and Clary just nodded and after another goodbye Clary and I were left alone. I turned around and Clary placed her hands on my shoulders and I wrapped them around her waist. I couldn't help but smile whenever I looked at her.

"I love you." I said and her breath caught before she smiled and pressed her lips to mine.

"I love you too." She said and I couldn't help but smile. We were interrupted when Valentine came back in.

"You almost lost your chance Jonathan." He said and I nodded.

"I'm sorry sir, I was just happy with the offer, and I wanted to share that with her." I said and she smiled.

"You two can leave for the day. But I expect to see you two tomorrow, on time, and being professional."

"Of course father." Clary said and he smiled at left the room. I turned back to Clary.

"How long has he known?"

"I told him the day you asked me to prom." She said and I nodded. "Clearly he was going to know when prom rolled around, and I figured that it would be less of a shock to just get it out of the way."

"Smart move." I said and she laughed. I grabbed her hand and led her out of the office, and out for some celebratory coffee. I was excited for the future for the first time in forever, and I knew that having Clary by my side was everything I needed.

Time Jump – Six Years Later

Clary POV:

Everything that has happened in the past six years has been incredible. After Jace graduated from NYU he immediately started working full time at Morgenstern Industries and I was right, he was the perfect fit. Everything about him fit wit the company. Unfortunately the happiness, and string of good luck ended when my father suffered a stroke. He was in the hospital for a couple months before he suffered a second one and didn't make it.

Today was the day of his funeral and I was a complete wreck. I barely got out of bed the past week. Jace has been filling in for me at work with the help of Luke and Maryse but I knew that I needed to get back, but it was weird not having him there. I was lay in bed all day, and when Jace would come home, he tried to get me to eat, but always failed. He was super understanding, and I couldn't be more thankful for everything he's done for me since my dad got in the hospital, but today was the hardest. I got dressed an hour ago, but I was just sitting on the edge of my bed staring at the floor. I didn't want to face today. I didn't want to greet 600 people who were coming to pay their respects, or talk at his service, or watch them lower him into the ground.

"Clary?" I heard and when I looked Jace was kneeling in front of me. "You don't have to do this alone. I can do all the talking, and if it's get too much you can find a quiet room and stay there until it's over." He said and I placed my hand on his cheek.

"What did I do to deserve you?" I ask and he laughs and presses his lips to mine.

"Come on babe, let's go." He said as he reached his hand out. I took it and he led me to the car. We pulled up to the funeral home and I took a deep breath.

The viewing took two hours, and I met more people than I could possibly count. Jace stayed by my side the entire time and never let go of my hand. He was truly my rock these past couple months, and I have no idea what I'd do with out him. After I said my final goodbyes, I went out and met Jace in the parking lot, got in the car and headed for the church. Everyone poured in and the pastor started talking. Before I knew it, I was being called to talk and Jace gave me a quick kiss on the cheek and I made my way up to the podium. I took a deep breath before I started.

"Valentine was a lot of things to a lot of different people. He was a boss, a friend, a mentor, and a tough nut to crack sometimes. It was hard to get him out of work mode, but he was a father first and foremost to me." I said and I took another deep breath. "Those who didn't see the other side to my father really missed out on knowing a great guy. He was extremely professional, and didn't like showing emotion most of the time. But when it came to me, he always made sure I knew that I could talk to him about anything, and that I could always count on him having my back." I chocked up and took a moment. "He helped me through some of the hardest times in life, and he gave me everything I could possibly want or need in life. He was an amazing businessman, but he was an even more amazing father. These past few months have been extremely hard for me. I thought I'd have my dad until the day I was 60 years old, but here I am, 24 years old, saying goodbye to one of the most important men in my life, and I feel like half of my is empty." I looked at the front row and saw Jace smile at me and I smiled back. "I am going to miss our Friday night dinners, our relationship in the office, but I will miss knowing that he is just down the hall when I need a hug or just a nice talk. I loved my father, more than anything, and I know this will be a huge adjustment, but I can't thank you all enough for coming and showing your respect for him. It means a lot to me." I said and I stepped down. Jace was standing and when I walked over he pulled me into a hug. I took a deep breath and we took our seats.

The rest of the service and the cemetery was a blur, and the next thing I remember was being back in my room. I was so out of it, Jace had to get me dressed for bed. He sunk in next to me and pulled me closer and I let out all the emotions that I had been holding in all day flow. I didn't know what else to do. I had no family left, and I had to accept that, and move forward, but right now it seemed impossible.

Time Jump – One Year Later

Clary POV:

Morgenstern Industries had been thriving and I couldn't be more proud of the staff. They have truly made this place run as smoothly as it does, and it was insane just how great things were going. Jace and I were married, and expecting our first child soon. He was two months away from being here and I couldn't be more anxious for him to get here already so Jace and I could start raising our family. Everything seemed to be working out, and despite the pain and the sadness that I had been feeling the past year, I was excited to begin this new chapter with Jace. I was sitting in my office when there was a knock on my door.

"Come in." I said and Jace walked through the door. "Hey."

"Hey. We have a meeting in 3 minutes."

"Oh shit. I totally forgot." I said and I stood straight up. My equilibrium was off and I nearly fell over when I felt sturdy hands on my waist.

"You know, you're 7 months pregnant, no one would blame you for wearing flats to work babe." He said and I laughed.

"I've always worn heels." I said and he laughed.

"Come on. Let's go." He said as he grabbed my hand and led me to the conference room. The lights were out and I was extremely confused. I flipped them on and was shocked by all the faces in the room.

"What's this?" I ask and Izzy comes running over to me and give me a big hug.

"You're baby shower silly!" She says and I couldn't help but smile.

"Really?"

"Oh course. You didn't think we'd let you have our grandbaby without a proper baby shower did you?" Celine said as she came over and gave me a hug followed by Stephan.

"Thank you guys."

"It was all Jace." Celine said and I looked back towards him and gave him a quick kiss.

"I love you." I said and he smiled and tucked a curl behind my ear.

"I love you too." He said and I couldn't stop smiling. We sat down, and started opening gifts, and eating cake, and I couldn't stop smiling. It had been one hell of a year, and it was only going to get more chaotic from here. But what is life without a little chaos?

"Oh shit." I said and all eyes were on me. "My water just broke." I said and than the chaos started all over again.

Authors Note:

I have absolutely no idea who requested this story, but I do know that someone did! And I hope that I lived up to your expectations. I know it isn't the ideal kind of shy girl you were probably hoping for, but I wanted to make it different, and I am very happy with where it went! Let me know what you think! :)