Seventy First One Shot:

Secret Service

Jace POV:

"You'll be assigned to my daughters protection detail when her plane lands." President Morgenstern said.

"Of course sir." I said.

"She doesn't particularly like having a security team, but she doesn't really have a choice." He said and I nodded. "Bat will show you the way." He said and another man walked in.

"Of course sir." I said. I followed the man out and once the doors were closed he smiled.

"My name's Bat, and I'm the head of Miss. Morgenstern's security detail." He said. "Welcome aboard."

"Thanks." I said. "Does she really hate having a detail?" I asked after a moment.

"She'll never admit it, but she really likes all the men in her detail, she just hates that her father still thinks she's 12." He explained. "But I think any 22 year old would feel that way."

"Understandable." I said.

"Her plane lands in 10 minutes. We'll go out and I'll introduce you to the men that are also in her detail." He said and I nodded. We made our way out to the field where the plane would land, and there were 6 other men waiting there and talking. "Men, we got another one." Bat said and everyone turned and faced us. "This is Jace Herondale. Newest member of Miss. Morgenstern's detail." He said and they all nodded. "We have Jordan Kyle, Simon Lewis, Alec Lightwood, Julian Blackthorn, Magnus Bane, and Raphael Santiago."

"Nice to meet you all." I said and they nodded.

"Remember that Miss. Morgenstern is coming back for the summer with Isabelle and Emma, so we don't only have her to worry about her, but them as well." Bat said.

"Oh god." Julian said and all the other guys laughed. I guess Bat could see my confusion because he clapped me on the shoulder.

"Emma came for the first time 2 years ago, and Julian fell hard, and fast." Bat explained and I nodded. "He hasn't seen her since, so this should be a fun reunion."

"Laugh at my pain." Julian said which only made the guys laugh even more.

"Well, if you weren't such a little bitch and asked her out, we wouldn't laugh." Simon said and Julian punched him.

"Just because everything worked out between you and Isabelle, doesn't mean it'll work out for Emma and I." Julian said.

"As much as I'd love to discuss my little sisters love life. The plane is coming." Alec said and we all turned our direction towards the jet approaching.

"Is everyone here connected?" I asked Bat and he laughed.

"Not on purpose." Bat said. "Alec started here and Miss. Morgenstern told us she was bringing a couple friends home for the summer. Alec was stunned when his sister walked off the plane with her." Bat said with a laugh. "The whole summer Isabelle and Simon got really close, and when it was time for them to go back to school, Simon took a risk and asked if she'd like to be his girlfriend, and they've been together ever since. Julian and Emma are more complicated."

"How so?" I asked.

"Emma had a boyfriend back at school." Bat said. "Although you could see how much Emma liked Julian, she wasn't going to do that to her boyfriend, and it really hurt Julian when they went back to school. Miss. Morgenstern keeps me in the loop about everything going on, so she is currently single, but who knows if Julian will even try anything this summer."

"You seem really close with her." I said and Bat laughed.

"She's like my little sister." Bat said. "There isn't anything I wouldn't do for her." He said and I nodded. A moment later the plane landed and the boys started making their way to the plane. The door opened and the steps came down, and out walked basically Alec's replica, only in girl form.

"Simon!" She cheered as she ran down the stairs and into his arms. You could see how happy he was to be with her again, and I couldn't imagine spending the majority of your time in a relationship away from that person.

"Just ignore your brother." Alec said. "That's cool." He said and she broke away from Simon, and glared at her brother.

"I haven't seen Simon since Christmas, you work with your significant other. I don't get the luxury." She said as she hugged Alec. "You better be keeping him in check." She said as she looked towards Magnus.

"Oh darling, Alexander is in good hands." Magnus said as he gave her a huge hug.

"Is that even allowed?" I whispered to Bat and he laughed.

"President Morgenstern is a very chill guy." Bat explained. "When Magnus and Alec both realized that they wanted to explore a relationship together, they went to him and told him that if one of them needed a new job, it wouldn't be a problem because they really did care about each other." Bat said. "President Morgenstern simply laughed and said he wasn't going to make one of them quite because they wanted to date a coworker." Bat said. "But they were split up. Magnus is in Mr. Morgenstern's detail."

"You mean President Morgenstern?" I asked and Bat laughed.

"No, his son." Bat said and I nodded. "He is simply here to make sure everything goes smoothly, and than he'll be off."

The next person to exit the plane was Emma because Julian immediately cursed under his breath. I could see why he fell hard and fast. She was a beautiful girl, and sometimes looks kill you before you even get a chance to get to know the person. She walked off the plane and made her way over to Isabelle, and I couldn't help but notice that she avoided Julian at all costs. I wasn't paying attention to the next person who started to exit the plane until I heard a scream. I turned around just in the nick of time to catch her at the bottom of the stairs.

"I see you're still just as uncoordinated as you were when you left." Bat said to the girl as I helped her stand up.

"You know me, clumsier with every day that passes." She said and I couldn't take my eyes off of her. She was gorgeous. She turned towards me and smiled which brought me off of whatever trance she locked me under. "You're new."

"Miss. Morgenstern, this is Jace Herondale, newest member of your detail." Bat said and I smiled.

"Pleasure to meet you Miss. Morgenstern." I said and she smiled again.

"Please, call me Clary." She said and I nodded. "Same goes for you Bat. You've known me since my father was elected. If I hear you call me Miss. Morgenstern one more time, I might have to shoot you with your own gun." She said as she and Bat laughed. "And we all know that that's not something you want to tell the guys over a round of beers when they ask how you were shot."

"You are very right Clary, but I'm just doing my job." Bat said.

"I'm not as formal as my parents or my brother. You guys are more than just my detail, you're my friends, and I don't have my friends call me Miss. Morgenstern." Clary explained.

"I will try my best." Bat said and she smiled. "Jace, and Alec will escort you inside, the rest of us will get your bags."

"You remember what rooms Emma and Izzy stayed in last time?" Clary asked and bat simply nodded. "Great. This way Jace and Alec."

Alec and I followed the three young ladies to the house and escorted them into whatever room that Clary had led us too. When we reached the room, it was filled with people who I'm assuming are her family, so Alec and I just lingered near the door like we were supposed too. They stayed for some time before Bat came in and told them that all their belongings were brought up to their rooms, which made all three ladies excuse themselves, so that they could unpack. Since we were in the house, we didn't need to escort them to their rooms, so the boys and I simply made ourselves scarce around the house and occupied ourselves with small tasks to buy time for the rest of the day, but I couldn't get Clary out of my head, and it was driving me crazy.

Clary POV:

When I finally reached my room, I took a deep breath and laid out on my bed. The new secret service agent assigned to my detail was hot. Like smoking hot and the fact that I was going to be spending the majority of the summer with him, made me thankful that I decided to come home instead of travel abroad with Izzy and her family. I was going to enjoy spending my time with him. My door opened and I looked up and Izzy and Emma entered my room.

"That new guy is really hot." Emma said and I couldn't help but laugh.

"Seriously, where the hell do they find all these hot guys at?" Izzy asked as they both sat on my bed.

"He smells nice too." I said because I remembered him catching me when I tripped on the stairs.

"You have the best looking detail in the world." Izzy said. "You're so lucky."

"I guess I'm pretty lucky." I said and they both rolled their eyes. "Oh come on, Izzy you're with Simon, and Emma you and Julian have a lot to figure out this summer."

"I don't even think he still likes me." Emma said.

"Oh please. He still likes you." Izzy said. "He was trying to hard not to look at you today, which makes sense. He fell in love with you after a week of knowing you, and when he found out you had a boyfriend, he was crushed."

"I didn't mean to hurt him." Emma said.

"I know you didn't, but that didn't mean that you didn't." Izzy said. "But you have another chance. You broke up with that dick, and now you have full freedom to see where things go with Julian."

"I guess, but he does have a job. I can't distract him from that." Emma said.

"Please, Clary has enough people to watch out for her. Plus super hot new guy will probably be on her everyday." Izzy said and I rolled her eyes.

"Oh please, they all watch me like a hawk when I'm here. Jace won't be much different." I said and they rolled their eyes again. "What's with the eye rolling?"

"You've never done anything for yourself Clare. You do whatever you need to do so it'll look good for your father." Izzy said.

"That's not true." I said.

"Yes it is." Emma said. "The only thing you've ever done for yourself was going to Stanford. Your father wanted you to go somewhere local, but you were so committed to going to Stanford, and look where that's gotten you." Emma said.

"Yea, it brought us together, and I couldn't picture my life without you." Izzy said and I couldn't help but smile.

"This summer, make it about you." Emma said. "Live it up, and hey if you fall for the hottie, that's just a bonus." She said and I laughed.

"I'm not going to fall in love with a member of my security detail." I said and they both laughed.

"Don't be so sure. I wasn't looking for Simon when I came here, and I can't picture my life without him, and Emma might not be able to openly confess it, but she'd be miserable without Julian in her life. I mean, you deserve someone to do that to you."

"He might not even like me like that." I said and they both laughed.

"You've always been able to attract any guy you wanted. He won't be any different." Izzy said.

"He might also be like 10 years older than me Iz." I said and she just shook her head.

"I'll talk to Alec, but he didn't look older than 25." She said and I just shrugged. "Just have fun, and maybe something will happen, and maybe something won't, but who knows unless you try."

"Okay." I said and they cheered.

We stayed in my room for another hour or so until we were called for dinner. It was great to be back with my family again. I missed them, but I also loved the freedom of being away at school. People knew I was the president's daughter, but they didn't make a big deal out of it, which was really nice. I was just a regular girl there, and that's all I've ever wanted to be, and I loved that.

"Remember Clarissa, we have a huge event in a month, and please don't try and ditch your detail again." My father said.

"Don't worry dad. I left my rebellious years behind." I said and everyone laughed.

"That's good to hear." He said and I nodded.

"Also, we were going to go shopping tomorrow. If you could tell my detail, that'd be great." I said and my dad simply nodded and we went back to eating in peace. I couldn't wait to just be a normal person again. School was over, and I didn't have to worry about exams or homework. I was going to have fun with my friends, and I was going to enjoy it.

Jace POV:

I came in today not knowing what was on the agenda. We were called into the office to talk with President Morgenstern, and to be honest, I haven't really spent that much time with him so I have no clue what I'm in for, and that's slightly terrifying, but Bat made him seem like he was pretty open, and up for anything, so that was pretty calming when it comes to any type of meetings he calls.

"Welcome, thank you all for coming in today." President Morgenstern said. "My daughter is going out shopping with her friends. As you know, Clarissa is always your first priority, but with her friends being here, they are just as much your responsibility as Clarissa." He said and we all nodded. "Bat and Simon, you'll be in Clarissa's car. Jordan and Alec, you'll be with Emma. Jace and Julian you'll be with Isabelle. Raphael, you'll be the lead car with no girl, but you know the drill, keep an eye on everything." He said and we all nodded. "Have a good day, you know how those ladies are with shopping, so I'll see you after dinner, or maybe later." He said and we all walked out. Once the door was closed I turned to Bat.

"Do they really shop all day?" I asked and everyone laughed.

"Last year, we left at 9 am, and we didn't get back until after 10. It was a nightmare." Bat said and my jaw dropped. "They don't just shop. They stop for lunch, than shop for hours. They get their nails done, than shop, than it's dinner time, and than they shop, and last year, they found a club they really wanted to try out, but they weren't dressed appropriately, so they shopped some more, and than went to a club. It's a full outing with them. Always has been, always will be." He said and I nodded. "Everyone go get your girl, and we'll meet in the garage." Bat instructed and Julian and I headed towards Isabelle's room. Julian knocked on the door and a moment later it opened.

"Hi. I was wondering who I was going to be with today." She said rather cheerfully.

"It's barely 8 am, you look oddly chipper." I said and she laughed and made her way out of her room.

"Unlike my counterparts, mainly Clary, I don't roll out of bed, throw a t-shirt on and my chucks and take on the day." She said and I couldn't help but laugh at how opposite they were. "I take my time getting ready for the day, and sometimes that requires getting up rather early, but beauty takes some sacrifice." She said as we made our way into the foyer to meet the others. Isabelle was correct in pinpointing what Clary would be wearing, and she had it down to the converse. Emma was dressed a little more feminine, but Isabelle was definitely dressed the most girly, but it seemed to fit her personality quite well.

"Alright, first stop, Starbucks." Clary said. "Because you made today start way too early Iz, and if I don't have caffeine in me soon, no one is going to be safe from my hysterical outbursts." She said and everyone laughed.

"She's not kidding." We heard from behind us, and when we turned around, there stood President Morgenstern's replica.

"Jonathan, what are you doing up? You got in at like 3 am." Clary said and he simply laughed.

"I had a date, and it went a little longer than expected." He said. "Although, I wouldn't have needed to stay out so late if Emma here would just accept my invitation to accompany me to dinner." He said with a smirk and I glanced to my right, and Julian had his fists in balls.

"I am flattered that you want to take me out Jonathan, but you're simply not my type." Emma said in a polite voice.

"Seriously, you've been asking for 2 years Jon, give it up." Isabelle said and Jonathan just rolled his eyes.

"You'll give in eventually." Jonathan said as he winked at Emma. "They always do." He walked away and Emma scoffed.

"I love you Clare, but your brother is a huge creep." Emma said and Clary laughed.

"I'm sorry he's such a jerk sometimes. I thought that maybe he would get over this weird fascination with you when you didn't come last summer, but it seems to have only heightened." Clary said and Emma just shrugged it off.

"He'll get the hint one day. I'm hoping he get's it before I have to cause him bodily harm, but I'm not beneath it either." Emma said and Clary laughed.

"If you do end up slapping him, make sure I'm there to witness." Clary said and she didn't seem at all bothered about her friend smacking the shit out her brother, which was really funny to me.

"Oh girl, you'll have a front row seat with a camera ready." Emma said and Clary laughed.

"Let's get going, I can already feel myself getting antsy from lack of sleep." Clary said and we all walked into the garage and got in our designated cars and started off towards the shopping center we were going too.

"So, you're name is Jace right?" Isabelle asked from the back.

"That's right." I said with a smile.

"What made you want to join the secret service?" She asked.

"I've always wanted to protect people. At first I wanted to be a police officer, or maybe a federal agent, but in college there was just something so intriguing about the secret service. Of course that not what my degree is in, but it was always my dream job." I answered and I saw her nod.

"Are you fresh out of college than?" She asked.

"I actually graduated college when I was 20. I started out being the security detail for the local senators, or other congressman, some cabinet members, but this past year I was promoted to Miss. Morgenstern's detail." I explained.

"So that makes you how old?" She asked.

"I'll be 26 in January." I said and she nodded.

"Are you married?" She asked and I looked in the rearview, and she laughed. "I'm sorry, I always question the new members. I just like to know everyone. I'm really friendly."

"I've gathered that much." I said with a laugh. "But to answer your question, no, I'm not married. Haven't me the right girl yet." I said.

"But you must be a hit with all the ladies." She said with suggestive tone. "You're quite the looker."

"I'm flattered you think so." I said and she laughed.

"Don't get me wrong, I love my Simon, but you are structured like a god." She said and I laughed. "I'm not coming on to you by the way, but I appreciate the way you look."

"Thank you. I've never gotten that compliment before." I said and she laughed. "And you're right, I've never had a girl deny me, but I must say, I deny them quite a lot."

"That surprises me." Isabelle said. "You think you'd take advantage of your looks, and use them to get dates."

"I was that way when I was 15 or 16. When I started to realize that girls were noticing me, and not just girls my age, but older women." I admitted. "But when I was 17, I graduated high school, and went to college, and noticed that 20 year olds were doing the same thing as those 15 year olds, it kind of made me take a step back and think about the way I could abuse my looks into getting a lot of girls." I said. "I realized that I didn't want to be known as the player. If I met a girl I genuinely liked, than I would take that opportunity to ask her out, but I've never taken advantage of my looks for causal hook ups. That's never been me."

"That's really cool." Isabelle said. "I know plenty of guys, if they were in your situation who would have used their looks as bait to reel in any girl they could charm." She says. "I dated a few of them, and I've seen friends get heartbroken time after time, and it really sucks."

"I know what you mean. My little sister is 17, and it sucks that I can't be home to make sure the guys she brings home are good enough for her." I said.

"She's a lucky girl to have a brother who cares so much." Isabelle says. "Alec was that way with me. It's endearing to have someone care so much. Especially because my parents weren't around as much as normal parents would be."

"I understand. My dad bailed after my sister was born. Apparently one kid was already too much of a hassle, and two kids was just pushing it." I said with a dry humorless laugh. "As much as my sister hates it, I'm like a big brother and dad all in one."

"She'll appreciate it later in life." Isabelle said with a smile. "Trust me."

"I'll take your word for it Isabelle." I said.

"Call me Izzy. Isabelle makes me feel like I'm be reprimanded by my parents." She said and I laughed.

"Duly noted." I said and Julian parked the car. We got out and made our way into the Starbucks. Clary was standing at the counter, when she turned around and smiled.

"You boys want anything?" She asked.

"No thank you Miss. Morgenstern." Bat answered for all of us. "We're just fine." She nodded and paid for the drinks and we all made it back into our cars and headed towards our next destination. I thought the car ride was going to be quiet but man could Izzy talk.

"So, are you going to do something about Emma this summer, or let Jonathan continue to creep her out?" Izzy asked Julian and he nearly swerved off the road.

"I don't know what you're talking about." Julian said as he focused back on the road.

"Oh please. Everyone in the White House could tell that you fell hard and fast for my little blonde friend, and I don't blame you. She's quite the catch." Izzy said. I looked over at Julian and he was blushing hard core. "And I know she likes you, a lot. So do something about it."

"What about her boyfriend? The one she was madly in love with the last time she was here." Julian said.

"They broke up like last year. He was a dick, and she finally noticed." Izzy said. "Now is your chance, make your move. She'll appreciate it because that shows that you're interested."

"I think I proved that I was interested more than enough." Julian said.

"But it's been 2 years." Izzy said. "I love Emma to death, but she's the type of person to need reassurance. She won't believe you're interested until you show her that you are."

"You are quite the friend Izzy." I said before Julian could speak. "You really care about Emma and Clary."

"I didn't have a lot of girlfriends in high school." She admitted. "They all wanted me for one reason or another, and I knew that. I distanced myself from most of them because I was tired of the fakeness. When I got to Stanford and met Clary and Emma, we just clicked so well. I'd do anything for them, and I know they'd do the same for me."

"That's really awesome to have a friend like that." I said and she smiled. "I was a loner too."

"That surprises me more than you not being married." She said and I laughed.

"Not saying that I didn't have friends, but I didn't consider any of them close." I explained. "My mom referred to them as my 'location friends'. I'd talk to them in school, or on the football field, but I never willingly hung out with them outside of that environment."

"At first glance, you look like you'd be a total tool." Izzy said and Julian and I laughed. "But you seem like a cool person."

"Thank you." I said and than Julian parked the car. When I looked out the window I saw that we were at a mall, quite a big mall. Izzy had a smile on her face that stretched from ear to ear and I could tell this was going to be a long day. Izzy made her way over to where Clary and Emma were standing and they all started making their way into the building with us following close behind, but not too close that we were crowding them. I knew I was supposed to be keeping an eye on Izzy, but I couldn't stop myself from occasionally glancing at Clary. She was intriguing, and insanely beautiful, and that was captivating.

Clary POV:

We got to the first store and started looking through the clothes. My detail was spread out rather well, and although I knew they looked like the secret service, it didn't seem to bother anyone else, and that was nice. I was searching through some dresses when I heard a bunch of giggling. I turned around and there were 5 girls standing around Jace. Some were batting their eyelashes, or twirling their hair around their finger. They couldn't have been older than 18, and I heard someone laugh, and when I looked to my right there stood Izzy.

"You are so jealous right now, it's cute." She said and I scoffed and went back to looking at dresses.

"I am not jealous." I said and she laughed.

"You have that look in your eyes Clare." She said. "That look that says you want to go over there and pull Jace away from those girls giggling at what sounds like a lame joke." She said. "Although, Jace is a rather charming person, so I can't imagine him using a lame joke to pick up women, let alone teenage girls."

"You seem to know him well. Fun car ride?" I asked, and I sounded rather bitter in my question, and I didn't mean for it to sound that way, but I couldn't help it.

"See, you were just jealous of me when you know I have a boyfriend. He's in your detail, assigned to you, and you don't see me getting jealous." She said and I sighed.

"I'm sorry. I don't know what he's doing to me." I admitted and she laughed.

"He's getting under your skin." She said and I laughed. "But we did have a nice car ride. He's actually a lot different than I thought he would be."

"How so?" I asked curiously about what she learned.

"For one, he's almost 26 so those teenage girls don't stand a chance." She said and I laughed. "Also, he doesn't use his looks to get dates." She said and I scoffed, that had to be a lie.

"Yea right Iz. Look at him." I said as I slightly gestured towards him. "He's gorgeous."

"I pointed that out to him in the car, and he told me he knew what his looks did to women, and that he decided when he was 17 that he didn't want to be known as a player." She said. "If he genuinely liked a girl, that's when he would ask her out. Not every girl who fawned over his looks."

"That's impressive." I said and she laughed.

"I said the same thing." She said and I smiled and picked up a dress. I held it out in front of me and looked at the mirror on the pillar next to me.

"What do you think?" I asked and instead of Izzy's voice, another one spoke.

"I think you'd look beautiful in it." I turned around and Jace was standing there.

"Thanks." I said and he smiled and walked away. I waited until he was out of earshot and turned towards Izzy.

"I told you." She said and I rolled my eyes. "He might not admit it out loud, but he has that look written all over his face. By the end of the summer, he is going to be yours. I know it."

"Oh please. I'm always going to be his job Izzy." I said as I looked in his direction than back at the dress in my hands. "That's all."

"But you're still getting the dress?" She asked after a moment I smiled.

"I was told that I would look good in it." I said and she laughed. "It would be a shame to waste a perfectly good compliment." I said as I walked towards the dressing room. I had absolutely no idea what Jace was doing to me. I had only known him for a day, and I was already jealous of girls who gave him attention, and getting a dress he told me would look beautiful on me. I've never done that before, yet here I am, paying for this dress because Jace told me I would look beautiful in it, and I felt like I shouldn't like it as much as I do, but I like it. I like it a lot.

Time Jump – One Month Later

Jace POV:

President Morgenstern had an event today, and Raphael and I were put on Clary's personal detail. We were currently in the car on our way back from the event. Everything went as planned and I was ready to get home and chill. It had been a really stressful month working in the secret service, but I liked it a lot, so it was all worth it. I noticed that Raphael wasn't heading back towards the White House, and I was confused.

"You missed the turn Raphael." I said and he looked over at me.

"No I didn't." He said.

"Yes you did. The White House is in the other direction." I said as I pointed back where we should have turned.

"What's going on?" Clary asked from the back.

"Nothing Miss. Morgenstern." Raphael said. "I know what I'm doing Jace."

"You missed the turn Raphael." I said again and before I could even blink something was being plunged into my leg. "You son of a bitch." I said as I felt whatever he injected into me seep through my veins.

"What's going on up there?" Clary asked. I could feel my eyelids getting heavy and I looked back at her.

"Call your dad." I said before darkness consumed me.

Clary POV:

Jace was now passed out in the front seat and I looked at Raphael. He had a needle in his hand and he looked in the rearview mirror and he had a crazy look in his eyes.

"Raphael, what's going on?" I asked again.

"I'm sorry Miss. Morgenstern." He said. He reached back and jammed something into my thigh. I looked down and it was another needle. I was to protest but everything slowed down incredibly fast and I could feel my eyes getting heavier. I looked back at Jace one more time and realized we were in a shit ton of trouble, and than darkness consumed me.

Time Jump – A Couple Hours Later

Jace POV:

I woke up groggy and incredibly confused. I went to move but something was stopping me. I looked down and realized that I was tied to a chair. I looked around and saw Clary sitting in a seat right across from me. She was clearly still passed out, and I cursed under my breath. I was supposed to protect her, and I couldn't do that. Although, it didn't help that Raphael was the one who took us. Nobody else was in the room, which was odd to me, but than again, this situation wasn't really normal.

After another 25 minutes Clary started to stir awake. I was thankful that she was still alive, although I could see her breathing before, actually seeing her wake up was really nice, and really calming because now I knew that she was okay despite being tied to a chair and taken prisoner.

"What the hell?" She said as she tried to move her arms.

"It's no use." I said and she looked up. "These knots are tied incredibly well."

"What happened?" She asked and I went to open my mouth when someone else decided to speak.

"I thought it was obvious Clarissa." Raphael said. "I'm going to use you as bait."

"For what Raphael?" Clary asked. "You've been in my detail for years, why lash out now?"

"Because there wasn't a weak spot until now." He said as he looked back towards me. "I've noticed the way you look at him, and the way he treats you."

"I don't see what that has to do with why you've taken me in the first place." Clary said, obviously not denying what Raphael said, which was actually really nice to hear.

"When your father was running for senator of New York all those years ago, he demolished a neighborhood in the projects." Raphael said.

"You make a rec center for that neighborhood. For those kids to have a place to go and stay off the streets." Clary said before he could continue.

"But he didn't take into consideration all the families he was displacing by demolishing those homes." Raphael yelled. "My family was put on the streets because of your father. I have a little sister, and a little brother." He said. "My mom is a single mother. But your father never considered that. He simply got the stamp of approval, and that was that. Our house was gone, and we had nowhere else to go."

"I didn't know that. How was I supposed to know that?" Clary said frantically. "I'm not involved in my fathers political agenda."

"But you are a Morgenstern." Raphael said. "And you're the only one I could take without reinforcement."

"So why take Jace? He has nothing to do with anything my father does." Clary said.

"Like I said before. You have a weak spot for him, and I'm going to use that against you." Raphael said.

"How?" Clary asked and instead of speaking Raphael simply showed her by punching me in the face, hard. "What the hell!" Clary yelled.

"You do what I say, and pretty boy here gets to keep his pretty face." Raphael said and than punched me again. "You disobey me, and it just gets worse."

"Don't listen to him Clary." I said before he punched me again.

"You really don't want to be pretty anymore do you?" Raphael asked. I looked up and spit the blood that was pooling in my mouth at his feet.

"I just don't take too kindly to people threatening women." I said and Raphael laughed.

"You can do whatever you want pretty boy, just know that the more you speak the more you get hit." Raphael said.

"Much like you I grew up in the projects." I said. "I know how to take a hit." I said and than another one came and I heard Clary scream.

"Stop it Raphael!" Clary said and he turned around. I spit the rest of the blood that pooled in my mouth on the ground and looked over to Clary. "I'll do what you want, just don't hurt him anymore."

"I'm glad to hear you say that Clarissa." Raphael said. "I'll be back later and we'll start." He said and than he left the room.

"I'm so sorry." Clary said after he left and I just shook my head.

"You have nothing to be sorry for." I said. "This is all Raphael. If anything I should be the sorry one."

"Why? You didn't do anything wrong." She said.

"It's my job to protect you." I said. "And I failed."

"Raphael has had this in his mind since he got hired to be in my detail." She said. "Nobody could have stopped him."

"Yea but I probably just lost my job." I said and Clary laughed.

"I'm not going to let my dad fire you for something that was out of your control." Clary said and I nodded because I knew I wasn't going to win an argument against her. "What do you think he's going to make me do?" She asked after a moment.

"I have no idea, but who knows what he's capable of." I said and she simply nodded. The truth was, I had some idea of what Raphael was going to do, but I didn't want to worry Clary because we were getting out of here, I just had to think of a way first.

Bat POV:

Everyone was in panic mode when Clary's car didn't make it back to the White House. Nobody knew what was going on because Jace, Raphael, and Clary all weren't picking up their phones, and that just made the panic even worse.

"My office now." President Morgenstern said to us and we all filed into his office without saying a word. "I want to know exactly what happened and why my daughter is currently missing." He said and I took a deep breath. Being the head of her detail made this was my fault.

"We got into our designated cars after the event and made our way back here. Julian noticed that Miss. Morgenstern's car wasn't in line and when we radioed Jace and Raphael nobody answered. We contacted your detail immediately." I said and he nodded.

"And nobody saw anything suspicious?" President Morgenstern asked.

"No sir. Everything was going as planned." I said and he nodded.

"Okay, I want you to secure Isabelle and Emma. Make sure they don't get in any danger. I will contact you immediately when I know what's going on." He said and we all nodded. "Bat, I want you to stay here for a moment." Everyone left the room, and it was just President Morgenstern and I left.

"I'm so sorry sir." I said before he spoke again.

"This isn't your fault Bat." He said which surprised me. "You did your job, and these are the risks of being the President." He said and I nodded because I had no idea what else to do. He was about to say something else when his phone started ringing. "Hello?" He answered and his mood immediately changed. "What have you done to my daughter you son of a bitch?" He yelled. "Listen, I don't take nicely to threats, especially when you use my daughter as bait." He said but than he threw his phone.

"Sir?" I asked and he looked at me.

"Raphael is one twisted son of a bitch." He said and my eyes widened.

"Raphael took her?" I asked and he nodded.

"I need to go talk to my staff." He said and than he left. I followed quickly behind and found my team standing in the foyer.

"What's going on?" Alec asked as soon as he saw me.

"Raphael is the one who took Clary." I said and they had the same reaction I did when I found out.

"What about Jace?" Julian asked.

"I can only assume he has him as well, but President Morgenstern made no indication of him being with them." I said.

"Do you think Jace is in on it too?" Simon asked.

"I highly doubt it." I said. "Jace might have just joined, but he was extremely loyal and dedicated to this job and the protection of Clary." I said. "Raphael always creeped me out."

"So what's going to happen?" Julian asked.

"I have no idea. President Morgenstern left right after he got the call." I said and they nodded. "How are Isabelle and Emma?" I asked.

"Pretty shaken up." Simon said. "I don't think they really understood that this was always a threat until it happened."

"Understandable." I said and they nodded. "We're going to do everything in our power to get her and Jace back." I said and they nodded once more. I knew the White House was going to be on high alert until we know exactly what was going on. I hope that everything works out, because if something happens to Clary, I don't think I'll ever forgive myself.

Clary POV:

After Raphael left, Jace and I were just stuck there tied to chairs. I was super confused why he built up this much hatred towards my father. I understood that it must have been extremely hard for his family, but he clearly made our fairly well for himself, and carrying around all this anger couldn't be healthy.

"Are you okay?" I asked Jace after awhile.

"I'll be fine." He said. "I wasn't lying when I said I knew how to take a hit. I got into my fair share of fights when I was younger."

"So you grew up like him?" I asked.

"Maybe not exactly like him, but I have a younger sister, and my mom was as single mother. We grew up poor, and I did some things that I'm not proud of to survive." He said and I nodded.

"That must have been hard." I said.

"It was all I ever knew." He said. "Even now I'm not any better off than I was when I lived with them."

"But you have a good job." I said and he laughed.

"I put away half my paycheck to save for my sisters college fund." He said. "I know my mom doesn't have much money, and I know I can help her."

"That's really nice of you." I said and he just shrugged.

"I would hope that any sibling would be willing to do that for their brother or sister." He said and I laughed.

"Jonathan wouldn't do that for me." I said.

"Yea, he doesn't seem too invested in your life." He said and I laughed.

"The age gap certainly doesn't help." I said. "He's always done his thing, and I've always done mine. I don't really know any differently."

"I understand. I'm 9 years older than my sister, so we were always at two different stages in life." He said and I nodded.

"Yea, but you two seem to have it all together." I said and he smiled.

"I love my sister. More than anything." He said. "I'd do anything for her."

Just at that moment the doors opened and in walked Raphael. But this time he wasn't alone. Two more people walked in behind him. One holding a camera, and the other holding a knife. I had no idea what was going to happen, but it didn't look fun.

"I just spoke with your father." Raphael said. "He wasn't very happy, but than again, I didn't expect anything less."

"So what happens now?" I ask.

"Now, I record you telling your father exactly what I want for your safe return." Raphael said.

"And if I don't?" I said.

"Pretty boy gets a few tally's added to his body." He said and the other man went over to Jace and ripped his shirt off. He took the knife to his chest and added one slice. Jace hissed and I saw the blood drip down his chest.

"Okay, I'll do it." I said and Raphael just smiled.

"Excellent." He said and than he set up the camera. I looked over at Jace and he seemed to be handling the pain quiet well, but that was only one cut, I couldn't imagine him handling any more that well.

Valentine POV:

"Sir, we have someone requesting video access to the safe room." My Secretary of Defense told me. I made a beeline for the safe room, followed by my detail and my daughters detail. We weren't going to stop until she was home safely. When we all got into the room I nodded and the Secretary of Defense clicked the accept button and there sat Clary, tied to a chair.

"My name is Clarissa Morgenstern." She started saying. "In order for my safe return, 7 million dollars must be sent to 1453 Eastwood Avenue, Brooklyn New York." She said. "If the money isn't there by 7 o'clock pm, the punishment will be painful."

"Anything else you'd like to say sweetheart?" There was a voice from behind camera, and I looked over at Bat to confirm it being Raphael and he simply nodded.

"You can rot in hell." She spat at him and I couldn't be prouder of the fighter in her.

"You just added another tally." He said and than there came a hiss from behind the camera.

"Why are you punishing him? Can't you just stop it already!" She yelled and I can only assume she's talking about Jace.

"You just never learn Clarissa." He said and someone started walking towards her a scream came, but not from Clary than the camera cut off.

"Damn it." I yelled and I looked around. "Is 7 million dollars possible?" I asked and someone started crunching numbers.

"Not by the time he wants it by." Someone said.

"It doesn't look like he's hurting her sir." Bat said and I looked at him.

"But he's hurting someone. Most likely Jace." I said and he nodded.

"It would appear he's torturing her, but hurting him." Bat explained.

"Why would he do that?" I asked.

"It seems that Miss. Morgenstern developed some feelings for Mr. Herondale." Bat said and I groaned.

"I hate to sound like a horrible person, but I'm glad he isn't physically torturing her." I said and Bat nodded.

"Understandable sir." He said.

"Well, we need to figure out a way to get that money to that address. I refuse to let Raphael take out a perfectly good secret service member." I said and everyone nodded and got back to work. I still couldn't believe that Raphael would do that to my daughter or to Jace, but I guess he had his reasons, and it was driving me crazy that I didn't know them.

Jace POV:

My chest was burning from the tally marks that were being left. I won't lie and say that it doesn't hurt, but I've been in worse situations so it could be worse, but I wasn't looking forward to the next round of whatever he had planned.

"Don't feel bad." I said as I looked at Clary. "You couldn't have prevented this."

"I added three more tally's on your chest Jace." She said clearly upset with herself. "If I just kept my mouth shut and said what he wanted me to say you wouldn't be bleeding or in pain."

"He would have found a way to do it anyway. You were his scape goat." I said and she just sighed. "I don't blame you if that's what you're worried about."

"I just feel bad." She said and I laughed.

"Of course you do, because he wants you to feel like it's your fault, but it isn't, and I want you to know that." I said and she just nodded. "We're going to get you out of here."

"You too." She said and I just shook my head.

"My priority if you." I said. "I'm going to get you out of here, and than maybe I'll figure a way out myself."

"But…"

"Not buts. This is my job Clary." I said and she shut her mouth and nodded.

I've been trying to loosen the ties on my wrist since I've woken up, and I'm so close. I had no idea if there were cameras in here, but I could think about that later. I just wanted to get out of here, set Clary free, and than I would think of the hard parts. Finally one of my hands slipped from the rope and I silently cheered. I quickly got my other hand free and ran over to Clary and started untying her knot as well.

"I want you to run to a door. I don't care which one. I want you to run, and not look back." I said as I helped her stand. "Find a restaurant or a shop, anything really and call your dad."

"What about you?" She asked and I laughed.

"They can probably see this whole thing right now. I'm going to save you some time." I said and she looked conflicted. "I need you to listen to me Clary."

"I don't want to leave you." She said and I just took a chance. I cupped her face and pressed my lips to hers. "Now I really don't want to leave you." She said when we broke apart.

"I'll get out." I said and than we both heard yelling. "Run Clary." I said and she took a deep breath and ran towards the door opposite of where the noise was coming from. I turned towards the door just as I opened and revealed Raphael and the two others he was working with.

"You son of a bitch." Raphael said as he came charging me. I didn't even know if I stood a chance, but I wasn't going down without a fight.

Clary POV:

I ran. Just like Jace told me too. I ran until my legs were on fire. I wanted to get as far away from that place as I possibly could before stopping to call my dad. Finally when I thought I reached a safe distance, I went into a small diner. There weren't many people, which wasn't surprising considering it was nighttime. I went right up to the counter.

"I need to use your phone." I said to the woman.

"Only paying customers can use our appliances." She said in a rude attitude.

"Than get me a cup of coffee, and your phone." I said and she rolled her eyes before getting me the coffee. Once I handed her a 10 she gave me the phone and I called my dad.

"Hello?" He answered rather quickly.

"Dad." I said.

"Oh my god Clary. Where are you?" He said frantically.

"I'm in this diner. I don't know where, but it's called Taki's." I said.

"Stay there. We're coming." He said and than the line went dead. I sipped on my coffee waiting for my dad to come get me. I didn't even know how far away I was from the White House at this point.

"Excuse me, can you tell me where I am?" I asked the waitress after a moment of thinking about it.

"Brooklyn." She said and my eyes widened.

"Thanks." I said and she nodded before walking away.

I sat there and drank two cups of coffee before a swarm of secret service agents ran into the diner and secured the perimeter. I looked behind me and my family came running in.

"Oh my god Clary." My dad said and I got up and ran to him. "I'm so glad you're safe." He said as he pulled around and examined me. "Where is Jace?"

"He stayed behind to give me more time." I said as the tears finally filled my eyes and spilled over. "I just left him there."

"He was protecting you." My dad said. "He was doing his job."

"But he was being tortured because of me." I said and he pulled me into him. "I didn't help him."

"You couldn't do anything baby." My mother said and I looked at her for the first time before she pulled me into her. "I'm so glad you're safe."

"Do you know why Raphael would do this?" My father asked after I was ushered out of the diner and into the car.

"The neighborhood you demolished right here in Brooklyn, the one that was made into that rec center. He lived there, and you made him and his family homeless." I explained.

"That was years ago." My dad said and I nodded.

"But he was angry." I said. "That anger can manifest into crazy things."

"Do you know where you were being held?" My father asked after a minute.

"Some building. I came from that way." I said as I pointed in the direction of where I ran from. "I don't really know where it was located. Jace told me to run, so I ran." I said.

"I want a team to retrace Clary's steps and find that building." My dad told his detail, which included Magnus. "We aren't leaving one of ours behind." He said and I felt good knowing that people were going to search for Jace, but I also had a horrible feeling in my gut knowing that something terrible could have happened to him.

Time Jump – A Couple Hours Later

Magnus POV:

We have been searching for the place where Clary and Jace were being held for some time, but we were coming up empty. We brought the dogs along to follow her scent, but at some point they lost it. If they were being underground Clary would have told us that, but as of right now, we were completely lost, and not finding a single thing.

"Hey, I found something." I heard someone call. We all made our way over there. There was a door that was hidden rather well behind some trees. We all drew our guns and pointed them at the door.

"On the count of three." I said and everyone nodded. "One….two….three." I said and the front man pulled the door opened and we all made our way inside. The place was hollow. No windows, or furniture, it smelled like sawdust, and blood. We made our way further into the building when we came across two bodies. One was Raphael, and the other was Jace.

"There is a trail of blood leading this way!" Someone shouted.

"Follow it, I'm going to stay here." I said and they all nodded. I went over to Raphael first and checked his pulse. Dead. I went over to Jace after that. I checked his pulse and it was weak, but it was there. I pulled my phone out and called 911 immediately. "I need an ambulance at this location ASAP." I said and I put the phone down and put pressure on the wound on Jace's abdomen. He wasn't going to bleed out if I had anything to do about it.

Time Jump – Hospital

Magnus POV:

I was currently sitting in the waiting room of the hospital waiting on news about Jace. The rest of the team came here after finding a woman still alive but barely. She was bleeding out pretty badly as well.

"Jace Herondale?" I heard and I stood up and made my way over to the nurse.

"Is he alive?" I asked.

"It was touch and go there for awhile. He lost a lot of blood, but we finally stabilized him." She said and I sighed in relief. "He's resting now, but you can go see him." She said and I nodded.

"What about the woman who was brought in as well?" I asked.

"She's alive as well." She said.

"I'm going to be putting two men outside her room. She's currently in custody." I said and the nurse nodded. I made my way to his room. When I walked in he was extremely pale, and hooked up to a bunch of monitors. I was glad that he was alive. I decided to just let him rest. I walked back out and immediately called Bat.

"What's the news?" He asked without a greeting.

"He's alive." I said and I heard him sigh. "He's asleep right now. But the woman is alive as well."

"President Morgenstern wants you to stay so you can question her when she wakes up." Bat said.

"Of course." I said and I hung up. I made my way out to the team and they all stood up.

"I need three of you by the woman's room, and the others by Jace's. Nothing is going to go wrong this time." I said and they nodded and split up. I took a deep calming breath before going back to Jace's room. This was a long day, and I was glad it all worked out.

Clary POV:

I was currently sitting in the living room with Izzy and Emma. They haven't let me go since I got back, but I didn't mind. I needed the comfort just as much as they did. My family was also sitting in the room. They weren't letting me leave their sight anytime soon. My whole detail was being detained and were to be questioned just to make sure none of them were going to do the same thing as Raphael. I knew that upset Izzy and Emma, but they understood the gravity of the situation, and that this was their job and they needed to be questioned.

"Sir?" We heard and Bat stood in the doorway.

"Come in." My father said and he walked over and leaned close to my father and whispered something in his ear. My father nodded and dismissed him. "Mr. Herondale is in stable condition." He said and I let out a sigh. "He'll be in the hospital in New York until he's allowed to travel."

"Thank you for going after him." I said and my dad smiled.

"I wasn't going to leave him behind. He's part of this team, and we don't leave our team out to dry." He said and I nodded. "I think you should get some sleep. It's been an emotional day, and I know you were waiting to hear the news about Herondale." He said. I nodded and stood up. Izzy and Emma followed. We got to my room but they still didn't leave.

"We figured we'd stay with you tonight." Emma said. "We don't want to be separated again." She said and I laughed.

"I'd love the company." I said and they smiled. We got ready for bed and all got under the covers. I wasn't really tired. I couldn't stop thinking about what happened in the last day. Everything seemed to go by in a blur, but so slow at the same time. "He kissed me." I said out of nowhere.

"What?" Izzy and Emma said at the same time.

"Jace. Before he told me to run, he kissed me." I said with a smile on my face. I just couldn't help but smile when thinking about it.

"What was it like?" Emma asked.

"Short." I said with a laugh. "Way too short."

"Was he a good kisser?" Izzy asked.

"Amazing." I said and we giggled like a bunch of teenage girls.

"I told you he would be yours by the end of the summer." Izzy said and I laughed.

"It was one kiss." I said.

"But he knew there was a possibility he wouldn't survive, and the last thing he wanted to do was kiss you." Emma said. "That has so much meaning to it."

"You think?" I asked.

"Trust me, if a guy kisses you before he goes into battle with the chance of not surviving, that means a lot!" Izzy said and that just made me smile more.

We talked for a couple more minutes before the exhaustion eventually won and I drifted off into sleep thinking about Jace and how I couldn't wait to see him again, and tell him that he's an idiot for doing that, but also throw my arms around his neck and never let him go.

Time Jump – A Couple Weeks Later

Jace POV:

I was finally released from the hospital last week. I couldn't leave until I got doctors orders, and than my mom wanted me to stay with her for a few days because he was upset that I almost died and didn't let her know. I mean, that woman has some mixed up priorities, but it was nice to see her and my sister again. President Morgenstern was really accommodating, giving me as much time off as I needed. I finally got back the other night, and it was so nice being back in my own apartment. I missed my bed more than I thought was possible. Of course my mom was hesitant to letting me come back, but I knew my job was risky, and as much as she hated that she was proud of me for saving Clary. I was pulled out of the thoughts when there was a knock on the door. I slowly got up and when I opened the door there stood Clary with Alec and Julian.

"What are you doing here?" I asked.

"You boys can go." She said to Alec and Julian. They went to protest but she held her hand up. "I think Jace can protect me if need be." She said.

"He was shot. And stabbed like a month ago." Alec said. "He just got back. He is in no physical shape to protect you."

"Than you can wait downstairs. And make sure nobody comes up here." She said and they rolled their eyes before Clary shut the door and looked back at me.

"What are you doing here?" I asked again.

"I came to see you." She said. "My father refused to let me go to New York to visit you in the hospital."

"Completely understandable." I said and she laughed and made her way to the couch. "Can I get you anything?"

"No thank you. I'm good." She said and I took a place next to her on the couch.
"How are you feeling?"

"I'm sore, but that's expected." I said and she nodded. "How are you?"

"You're the one who took a beating." She said. "I was just tied to a chair."

"That's still traumatic, and those knots were tight." I said and she laughed.

"I'm completely fine." She said. "You almost died."

"I took an oath." I said. "It's in my job description to lay down my life for this country."

"I don't think I like that job description." She said and I laughed. "You're an idiot. You know that?"

"Why?" I asked.

"Because you almost died." She said.

"I didn't mean for that to happen. I was very optimistic that I was going to make it out, but I underestimated his partners." I said and she nodded. "That one dude was crazy trained in some form of martial arts."

"How did you do it?" She asked.

"They shot me pretty early on." I said. "Some how I got the knife. I'm pretty hazy on the whole thing considering I was losing blood at an alarming rate. I embedded it in the guys chest, and he died pretty quickly, so that just left Raphael and the girl." I explained. "The girl was pretty easy. I cut her with a pipe I found on the ground and than Raphael and I went at it until I got the gun from him and shot him." I said. "Once the girl saw that Raphael was dead, she came over and stabbed me with the knife, but when she saw that I wasn't going to die anytime soon, she ran."

"I can't believe you did that." She said as she shook her head.

"I was doing my job Clary." I said.

"I don't like your job." She said and I laughed.

"Would you prefer that I was a bookstore owner?" I asked.

"At least you'd be safe." She said and I reached over and took her hand in mine.

"I can't promise you that this won't happen again." I said and I saw fear flicker in her eyes. "But I would die before I let anything happen to you."

"Why did you kiss me?" She asked out of nowhere.

"Because I could have died, and if I was going to die, I at least wanted to know what it felt like to kiss an incredibly gorgeous girl who somehow captured my attention from the moment I met her." I said honestly.

"Really?" She asked and I laughed.

"Absolutely." I said. "You're intriguing, and funny, and beautiful, and smart." I said. "Everything about you is intriguing to me, and has been since the very beginning of this summer."

"Why didn't you tell me?" She asked.

"Because I'm in your detail." I said. "I didn't want anyone to think I was getting distracted, or not doing my job correctly because of my feelings."

"I think that would only make you do your job better." She said and I laughed.

"Maybe so, but I think I would have been distracted." I said honestly. "Telling you about my feelings would have changed things between us. And I wanted to be fully focused on your safety."

"Things changed anyway." She said and I nodded.

"Yes they did." I said and she nodded. "Nothing has to change Clary. I can still be in your detail, and nothing has to change." I reassured her.

"What if I want them to change?" She said after a moment.

"You do?" I asked and she nodded her head.

"You aren't the only one who was captivated." She said. "I've had my eyes on you since the beginning of the summer as well. I just wasn't really sure what to do because nobody has ever made me feel the way you do."

"And how do I make you feel?" I asked.

"Like a teenage girl." She said with a laugh. "You make my stomach flip whenever we're in the same room as each other. Every time you flash that gorgeous smile I have to try and not have my knees buckle underneath me. And when we talk, you are so genuinely interested in what I'm saying. You listened to me talk about art for a 3 hour car ride one day. I mean, who does that?" She said and I laughed.

"You're interesting." I said. "And you seemed so passionate about art, that I couldn't help but listen to you talk. When people are passionate about something, it shows in everything they do, and I could see how passionate you were about it by the way your eyes lit up at the subject. How could I possibly not listen to you?" I asked.

"The way everyone else does. They put headphones in, or don't respond." She said and I smiled.

"I'm always up for listening to whatever you have to say." I told her. "I know nothing about art, and learning about it from you is interesting."

"Really?" She asked and I nodded.

"Music was always what I was good at. Art not so much." I admitted.

"You're a musician?" She asked.

"I wouldn't call myself a musician, but I play the piano." I said.

"I'd love to hear you play." She said.

"Once I'm fully healed, I'll make sure to give you a show." I said and she smiled.

She stayed with me for another hour or 2 until her father wanted her home. I walked her to the door but before I opened it I leaned forward and pressed my lips to her forehead. Her cheeks immediately flushed a light shade of red, and I couldn't help but smile at the affect I had on her.

"When are you coming back?" She asked.

"When I get the all clear from my doctor." I said.

"So it could be awhile?" She asked.

"I can barely walk without pain at this moment, so I'm gonna say it might be weeks." I said honestly. "But I'm normally a quick healer, so I'm optimistic that I'll be back sooner rather than later."

"Your optimism isn't always correct." She said and I laughed.

"True, but I know my body, and I might be sore now, but I'll be better fairly soon." I said and she nodded.

"Well, I trust you." She said and I smiled. "I could come over and keep you company while you're out." She suggested. "I would hate you being alone all the time."

"My mom and sister are actually coming down to spend a couple weeks with me." I said and I could see the slight disappointment cross her face. "But I'm always down for more company." I said and she smiled.

"Just let me know when you get lonely. I'm only a phone call away." She said and I nodded. When I opened the door Alec and Julian were standing there.

"She's all yours boys." I said and they laughed.

"Bye Jace." She said as she walked out of my apartment.

"Bye Clary." I said. The boys nodded and I closed my door. As much as I wished I could go back to work this instant, and be around Clary as much as I wanted, it was nice knowing that she was willing to come over here and spend some time with me.

Time Jump – Two Weeks Later

Clary POV:

"So you're just going to show up at his front door?" Izzy asked me.

"He's been really distant lately in his texts, and I just want to make sure he's okay." I said.

"He's probably just resting." Emma said. "That man took one hell of a beating for you."

"You don't need to remind me. I'm aware he almost died for me." I said.

"So that's why you are so on edge." Izzy said. "You're extremely turned on by the fact that he almost died for you." She said and my jaw dropped.

"I am not." I said and Emma and Izzy both laughed. "Him almost dying was the most terrifying thing I've ever experienced. I never want him to go through that again."

"But he will." Emma said. "All our men will because it's their job."

"He isn't my man." I said and they both looked at me. "Well he isn't."

"But you want him to be." Emma said.

"It doesn't matter what I want, because my father would never allow it." I said.

"Don't write your father off just yet. He's totally cool." Izzy said. "For all you know, he'd green light the relationship faster than a speeding bullet."

"Isabelle." I reprimanded.

"Too soon?" She asked.

"It will forever be too soon for bullet references, or knife references, or dying references." I said and they nodded. "Bat and Alec are on my detail today, so have fun with your men."

"Oh, we will." Emma said as she winked and I rolled my eyes and made my way to the foyer where they were meeting me.

We got into the car and they drove me to Jace's apartment. I told them to wait downstairs which they weren't happy about, but I didn't care. I wanted to see Jace, alone, and them being on my ass 24/7 was getting rather annoying, but I understood it, although that didn't mean I liked it. I knocked on the door and after a moment it opened but Jace wasn't the one behind it.

"Who are you?" The girl asked.

"I'm Clary. Is Jace here?" I asked.

"Jace. Some girl is here for you." She called as she walked away. A moment later Jace appeared looking better than he did the last time I saw him.

"Hey, what are you doing here?" He asked with a smile on his face.

"I came to check on you, but I didn't realize you had company." I said as I started walking away. "I'm sorry I interrupted."

"Not at all." He said. "Would you like to come in?" He asked and I was hesitant at first, but I did really want to see him. I nodded and he stepped aside and I walked in to find the girl who answered the door and an older woman sitting on the couch. "Mom, Cecilia, this is Clary. Clary this is my sister Cecilia, and my mom Celine."

"I totally forgot you said your family was coming to visit." I said and Jace laughed. "I'm so sorry."

"Nonsense." Celine said. "It's wonderful to meet you." I nodded and the sister looked less than thrilled that I was here.

"Don't mind Cecilia, she's going through her angsts filled teenage phase at the moment." Jace said and I laughed.

"Bite me Jonathan." She growled out.

"Pulling out the full name." Jace said. "You wound me."

"Stop baiting your sister Jonathan." Celine said and Jace held up his hands in a surrendering motion.

"I'm done." Jace said and his mother nodded. "So, who is with you today?" Jace asked.

"Bat and Alec." I said and he nodded.

"You get any more members?" He asked.

"My dad is in the process of replacing Raphael, but he's taking every precaution because he doesn't want anything to happen again." I explained.

"Makes sense." Jace said and I nodded.

"And don't worry, I went through my far share of angst as a teenager." I said and Jace laughed. "It got to the point where I wasn't trusted to go anywhere without my detail."

"What did you do?" Jace asked as he led me to the couch where we took a seat.

"I used to ditch my detail every chance I got." I said with a laugh. "At concerts, malls, theaters. I used to search for exits, so that I could get away."

"Why?" Cecilia asked, which surprised me cause I didn't think she cared about me being there.

"I was like 17, and I didn't want a bunch of men in suits following me around all the time. Plus it was really early into my father being elected, and I just wasn't used to that life. Of course I was used to him being in politics, but having that much security, was intense." I explained and she nodded.

"That sounds like it sucks." Cecilia said.

"You learn to deal with it." I said and she nodded. "He's done in 2 years, and I think transitioning out will be just as weird as transitioning in."

"What are you going to do after he's done?" Celine asked.

"Well, at the end of August I actually go back to school. I'm almost done though, and after graduation I'll get a job, and a place to live. So I won't be around as much." I said and than it hit me. Jace would probably be out of a job. "Oh shit."

"What?" Jace asked as he laughed.

"When I go back to school you won't have anyone to protect." I said and he shrugged.

"I'll get something." He said and I nodded. "What happens to the rest of your detail when you go to school?" He asked.

"They all had different jobs within the White House before they were assigned to me. So they just go back to that." I explained.

"I'm sure your dad has something for me, and if not, I'll find something else." He said and I just nodded. "Who wants dinner?" He asked after a minute.

"Make something good!" Cecilia said and Jace laughed before he left to go to the kitchen.

"He can cook?" I asked and his sister and mom laughed.

"He kinda had to learn. I worked a lot and he pretty much raised Cecilia when I wasn't around, and he needed to feed her, so he learned how to cook." Celine said and I nodded. "He's really good."

"We used to practice together." Cecilia said with a smile. "It was our nighttime ritual. We'd find a new recipe, and get the ingredients and cook. Sometimes it worked out, sometimes it didn't." She said and I laughed. "It was always a lot of fun though."

"That sounds awesome." I said. "My brother and I were never close."

"Jace might be a pain in the ass, but I couldn't picture my life without him. When we heard he was in the hospital, my heart nearly broke." Cecilia said.

"I'm really sorry about that. If it weren't for me, he wouldn't have been in that position in the first place." I said.

"It wasn't your fault sweetie." Celine said. "Jace explained what happened. He would have done that for anyone. Its just the type of person he is." She said and I nodded. "But I know you mean more to him than a lot of other people, so I'm really not surprised he put himself in harms way." She said and I blushed. "You're way more than just a job to him, anyone with eyes can see that."

"I just wish he wasn't injured." I said and she smiled.

"We all wish he wasn't injured, but he's alive, and that's all that really matters to us." Celine said and I nodded. "Plus, he never was one to put his own safety before other."

"She's right." Cecilia said. "He pulled me out of a burning building when I was younger."

"He did what?" I nearly shouted which caused them both to laugh.

"I was 7. I was in the shed playing with my dolls. Somehow the shed caught fire. I was scared to death. I just shrunk on the floor and started crying. The next thing I remember was Jace picking me up and running out of the shed." Cecilia explained. "We found out later that some kids were playing with gasoline and matches next door and it seeped over to our yard." She said. "I'm still trying to pay him back for saving my life."

"You don't have to pay me back." Jace said as he suddenly appeared in the room. "I would do it again in a heartbeat."

"I know." She said and he leaned down and kissed her head.

"Dinner is ready." He said and we all made our way into the kitchen.

"Yum. Pasta." Cecilia said and ran over to the stove and scooped come into her bowl. Celine got hers next than Jace let me get some before he got his own. We all took a seat at the table and started eating and talking.

I was having a great time with his family. They were all really funny, and you could tell how much they all meant to each other. But I can't imagine what they went through. Hearing their stories about childhood kind of scared me. They went through a lot, and I can't believe they all turned out to be so amazing. If Raphael's experience was anything like Jace's, I can only imagine what Jace would be like if he let that anger manifest like Raphael did, but I'm glad he didn't. My phone started ringing and I would ignore it but it was my father.

"Hello?" I answered.

"Clarissa, you've been gone for hours. Where are you?" He said sternly into the other end.

"I'm with Jace." I said.

"But he isn't back yet." My dad said which made me laugh.

"No. Bat and Alec are here as well. I came to visit and see how he was doing." I said.

"Come home soon. We have some things to discuss." He said and I sighed.

"Okay." I said and I hung up the phone.

"You have to get back?" Jace asked and I nodded.

"Apparently there are some things he needs to discuss with me, and I can tell he's worried about me." I said as I stood up and grabbed my bowl.

"Don't worry. I'll clean that up." Jace said and I smiled.

"It was lovely meeting you, but I shouldn't make him worry any longer." I said and Celine and Cecilia both stood up and surprisingly gave me hugs.

"I hope we see each other again soon." Celine said.

"I hope so as well." I said.

"You're pretty cool." Cecilia said. "For a rich girl."

"Cecilia." Celine reprimanded but I just laughed.

"I appreciate the compliment. I have a lot of friends who keep me grounded." I said and she smiled and nodded.

"I'll walk you out." Jace said and I nodded. When we got to the door we both lingered. "Thanks for coming and checking up on me."

"You were being really distant in your texts." I admitted. "I thought something was wrong. I should have remembered that your family was coming in to visit."

"It's okay. I'm glad you got to meet them." Jace said and I smiled. He leaned down and kissed my cheek, and my stomach flipped. "Have a good night Clary."

"You too Jace." I said and he opened the door to find Alec and Bat standing there. They greeted Jace and I made my way out of his apartment. We got back to the car and I was staring out the window thinking about Jace. Leaving to go back to school was going to suck.

Jace POV:

Once Clary left I made my way back into the kitchen where my sister and mother were speaking in hushed tones. I grabbed Clary's bowl and put it in the sink and when I turned around they were both staring at me.

"Yes?" I asked.

"I like her." Cecilia said, which caused me to laugh. "You would never think she was the president's daughter."

"Yea. She's pretty chill." I said as I took my seat.

"She's great." Cecilia said.

"Would you like her number? I can set you two up on a date if you'd like." I said and she smacked my arm.

"Don't be a jackass. I have a boyfriend." She said and my eyes nearly popped out of my head.

"What?!" I yelled and she sighed.

"Cats out of the bag." She said. "And I was doing so well." Cecilia told my mom.

"He was bound to find out eventually sweetie." My mom said.

"You knew?" I asked and she laughed.

"Of course I knew. I'm not just going to let my daughter date anyone." My mom said and that made me feel a little better.

"And you approve?" I asked.

"He's a very nice boy." My mom said and I nodded.

"No more secrets." I told her and she rolled her eyes with a laugh.

"What's going on with you and Clary?" Cecilia asked clearly trying to get the topic off her.

"I don't know what you're talking about." I said and she scoffed.

"Please, she came over here to see if you were alright, and she stayed for hours." Cecilia pointed out. "She totally likes you."

"It's complicated." I said.

"So you do like her?" My mom asked.

"How can you not?" I said. "She's funny, and beautiful, and witty, and smart." I gushed. "She's the whole package. You'd be crazy not to like her."

"So why haven't you made a move?" Cecilia asked.

"It's not the simply." I said. "I'm her detail. She's my job, and I can't intertwine the two."

"That's a bullshit excuse and you know it." Cecilia said.

"Your language is out of hand today Cecilia." My mom said.

"I'm sorry mom, but it's true." Cecilia said. "He's making that reason up."

"Are you Jace?" My mom asked.

"She's leaving in less than a month." I said. "She'll be in California finishing her last year of college, and I'll be here. Long distance rarely ever works." I admitted.

"You will never know until you try Jonathan." My mom said.

"She's awesome, and she clearly cares about you." Cecilia said. "Don't throw that away because you're being a little bitch." She said and my mom shook her head. "Sorry mom."

"Maybe this boyfriend isn't a good influence on you." She said and I laughed.

"Who do you think taught me those words?" She said as she pointed to me. "Having a brother who is 9 years older than you exposes you to a lot of things at a young age."

"I always get the blame, don't I?" I said and Cecilia laughed.

"That's what big brothers are for." She said and I smiled.

"You're lucky I love you." I said.

"I am." She said and I smiled. We might not have always had it all together, but I couldn't be happier with my family, or the way I grew up. It made me into the person I am today, and they are the best family I could ever ask for.

Clary POV:

When I got home I was directed to my fathers office. I had no idea what he was going to discuss with me, but if I was a betting woman, I'd say it had to do with my safety because that's what everything revolves around these days. When I walked in he was sitting at his desk. I made my way over and sat in the chair that faced him.

"Hi daddy." I said and he smiled.

"Hi Clare. How is Jace?" He asked.

"Doing really well. His mom and sister are visiting." I said and he nodded. "They're really nice."

"That's good, and I'm glad to hear that Jace is doing better." He said. "I called you in here because I wanted to let you know that I'm sending you back to school with a mini detail."

"Dad…."

"I'm not risking it Clarissa." He cut me off and I stopped talking. "Three men minimum, and they will blend in. I promise. I just can't risk anything happening to you ever again."

"Do you already have them planned?" I asked.

"Not yet. I'm in the process of getting everything together." He said and I nodded.

"Just make sure they aren't suspicious." I said and he laughed.

"They will blend in perfectly. I promise." He said and I stood up.

"I'm kinda tired. I'm going to head to bed." I said and he nodded. "Goodnight dad."

"Goodnight Clare." He said and I made my way up to my room. I knew something like this would happen, I just hope that my dad finds three people who can fit in on a college campus, and act like humans and not just agents. People knew I was the president's daughter, but they also knew I was a normal college kid, and I didn't want that compromised.

Valentine POV:

I was sitting in my office waiting for the first agent to come in to let him know that I was reassigning him. I knew Clary didn't want this detail, but I also knew that I didn't care, because her safety meant more to me than her pride at this point. When the door opened I looked up and there he stood.

"You wanted to see me sir?" He said and I nodded and gestured for him to take a seat.

"I am reassigning you." I said and his eyes widened momentarily before his face went back to normal.

"Where too sir?" He asked.

"Stanford." I said and this time his eyes did widen but they stayed that way. "It has come to my attention that you have an ongoing relationship with Isabelle Lightwood, am I correct?"

"Yes sir." He said.

"I'm assigning Clarissa a three man detail, and they must blend into the surroundings." I explained. "I think you would be a perfect fit."

"Thank you sir." Simon said and I smiled.

"You are to tell no one of your reassignment. It must stay top secret for now." I said and he nodded. "Can you tell the next agent to come on?" I asked and he nodded before leaving. It was quiet for a moment before the next agent walked in. "Have a seat." I said and he nodded before taking the seat. "I'm going to tell you exactly what I told Simon Lewis." I said and he nodded. "I'm reassigning you."

"Where sir?" He asked.

"Stanford." I said and his eyes widened just like Simon's. "It has come to my attention that you are in a relationship with Emma Carstairs, is that correct?"

"Yes sir." He said.

"I'm assigning Clarissa a three man detail and they must blend into their surroundings." I explained. "I think you'd be a perfect fit."

"Thank you sir." Julian said and I nodded.

"You are to tell no one of your reassignment. It's top secret, and I'd like it to stay that way." I said and he nodded.

"Understandable sir." He said.

"Thank you for coming in today." I said and he nodded before walking out. I got my coat and grabbed my detail and made my way to my next destination. When I got to the right door I knocked, and a few moment later a woman answered.

"How can I help you Mr. President?" She said.

"I was wondering if Jace Herondale lived here?" I asked.

"Of course. Come on in." She said and I walked into the tiny, but homey apartment. "Jace, someone is here for you." She called and a moment later Jace walked out.

"President Morgenstern, what do I owe the pleasure?" He asked.

"I'm reassigning you." I said.

"But I'm not even back yet." He said and I laughed.

"I spoke with your doctor. He says that you'll be good to go by the end of the month." I said.

"That's the plan." He said and I nodded. "Where am I being reassigned?"

"Stanford." I said and yet again his eyes widened. "I'm assigning Clarissa three man detail. They have to blend into the surroundings, and I think you'd be a perfect fit."

"Thank you sir." He said and I shook his hand.

"This is top secret, and I'd like it if it stayed that way, so you aren't allowed to tell anyone." I said and he nodded. "I understand my daughter has some feelings for you." I said and I saw him tense.

"I'm not really sure what's going on to be perfectly honest President Morgenstern." He said honestly.

"I know my daughter. Normally at this point in the summer she can't wait to get back to school, and that excitement isn't there this time, and I'm assuming its because of you." I said. "She will always be my little girl, but that doesn't mean I haven't noticed her growing up."

"And you'd be okay with a member of your staff, dating her?" He asked and I laughed.

"Any man who is willing to take a beating the way you did for her, has my presidential stamp of approval." I said and he smiled.

"Thank you sir." He said and I nodded.

"Clarissa's plane leaves next Friday, coming into the office two days before that, and I'll have everything you need set up out there with the two other men in the detail. I want you out there before they leave." I said and he nodded.

"Who else am I with?" He asked and I gave him that look. "Top secret. I'll find out eventually." He said and I nodded.

"It was a pleasure Herondale. Keep getting better, and I'll see you in a week." I said and he nodded and I left the apartment. I knew Clary wasn't happy, but I think once she see's who is in her detail, she'll be more than thrilled.

Time Jump – One Week Later

Clary POV:

"I'm going to miss you sweetheart." My mom said as she released me from the hug.

"It's my last year at Stanford." I said. "Soon, I'll be a big girl."

"You'll always be my little girl." My dad said and I hugged him.

"When will my detail be out there?" I asked.

"They are already there and settled into the house." He said. "I didn't want you out there without anyone, so I sent them a couple days ago."

"Okay. I'll call the minute we land." I said and they all nodded.

"We love you sweetie." My mom said.

"I love you guys too." I said and I got on the plane where Izzy and Emma already were. I got situated and the plane took off.

"I can't believe Simon didn't come say goodbye." Izzy said.

"He had to work Iz." I said.

"Julian too." Emma said. "It's shitty that the one day we wanted them to be off, they had to be three states away looking after Jonathan."

"They were getting reassigned the minute we stepped on this plane guys." I said. "I'm sorry, but they don't stop working when we leave."

"I know, it just sucks. I'm not going to see him until Christmas." Emma said, and Izzy nodded along.

"FaceTime and Skype exist for a reason." I said.

"Have you heard from your man yet?" Emma asked.

"I told you he isn't my man." I said and they rolled their eyes. "But to answer your question, no, I haven't."

"Our men suck sometimes." Izzy said and I laughed.

"I'm sure they wanted to be there." I said.

The rest of the plane ride was rather boring. Izzy was listening to music, Emma was reading a book, so I decided to sketch a little. Finally when we got to California, I just wanted my bed and a glass of wine. The car was already there to pick us up and take us to our destination. My father thought it would be safer to buy a house and update all the security features. I knew he wanted me safe, but with the 5 star alarm system plus the mini detail, I feel like I'm back in the White House again. When we pulled up to the house, there were three cars already in the driveway. We got out, and grabbed out bags and heading inside. I could hear the TV on, and I heard pans being moved in the kitchen.

"Man, these guys just make themselves at home quick." I said and Emma and Izzy laughed. I closed the door and locked it when I heard a scream. I ran into the room to see Simon and Julian sitting in the living room.

"Oh my god." Izzy yelled as she ran towards Simon. Emma made a beeline for Julian and I was happy to see my friends reunited with their significant other.

"Do I not get the same welcome?" I heard from behind me and I froze. I slowly turned around and there stood Jace. In the kitchen. Cooking.

"Oh my god." I said and all of my will left my body as I ran to him. He scooped me up into his arms and I felt him laugh into my hair.

"It's good to see you." He said and I broke the hug and looked at him.

"Are you three my detail?" I asked and he laughed and nodded.

"Your father thought it would be nice to give you a detail of people you liked, and who could blend in." Jace explained. "He knew about Izzy and Simon, and Emma and Julian, and thought it was the perfect opportunity to provide you with safety but also make you happy."

"And why did he choose you?" I asked and he laughed.

"Because he knows something is going on between us." He said with a laugh.

"How did he react to that?" I ask hesitantly.

"To quote the president of this United States, 'I have his president stamp of approval'." He said and my eyes got wide.

"He said that?" I asked and Jace laughed.

"He did. I was shocked myself." He said and I laughed.

"Told ya your dad was pretty cool." I heard Izzy say from behind me.

"I made dinner, who is hungry?" Jace asked and everyone made a beeline for the kitchen, which just left Jace and I.

"And do you think something is happening between us?" I asked and Jace grabbed my arm and pulled me into him.

"Absolutely." He said and I smiled. "Only if you think something is happening between us as well."

"Something is definitely happening between us." I said and he lowered his head and our lips touched and it as everything I remembered it being and more. When we broke apart, I was sad that it was over, but I could do it whenever I wanted, and I looked forward to that. Jace led me into the kitchen where we got dinner and joined the others at the table.

"So what are you guys going to do here exactly?" Emma asked.

"We all have jobs around campus." Julian explained.

"Which are?" Izzy asked.

"I'm actually a student, since I'm the youngest of us all." Simon said.

"What will you be studying?" I asked.

"Exactly what I actually studied in college." Simon said. "Chemical engineering."

"How the hell did you end up in the secret service?" Jace asked and we all laughed.

"College got way to boring for me, and I saw this program about becoming a secret service agent, and I thought it'd be cool. So I dropped out and here I am." Simon explained.

"How old are you exactly?" Julian asked.

"24." He answered.

"Really?" I asked.

"I graduated high school at 15, and went to college at 16. Dropped when I was 18. Here I am." He said.

"I got myself a nerd." Izzy said and we all laughed.

"What about you Julian?" I asked.

"I'll be working in admissions. Gives me a good profile of the people at this school, plus access to the teachers records." He said and I nodded. "Your father wants to be extra thorough."

"I can only imagine." I said and he laughed. "What about you Jace?" I asked.

"I'm going to be an adjunct." He said.

"For what?" Emma asked.

"I'll be taking over a chemistry class. The professor is out on maternity for this semester." He said.

"You can teach?" I asked.

"You're good with chemicals?" Izzy asked.

"I graduated early for a reason." He said. "And I was more into how to combine chemicals to make highly effective bombs." He said and my eyes widened. "Not to use on anyone, just to understand how they work." He said and I nodded. "I've never taught a class before, but I love chemistry, so it shouldn't be too hard."

"What level is it?" Simon asked.

"Chem 480." He said.

"Holy shit. Good luck with that." Julian said and we all laughed.

"I'm pretty smart. I think I can handle it." Jace said and we laughed.

"Looks like my father got everyone covered." I said. "Simon has the students, Jace has the professors, and Julian has the other employees."

"Did you really think your dad was going to leave any stone unturned?" Izzy asked and I shook my head with a laugh.

"Not at all." I said. I knew this year was going to be weird, with Jace, Simon and Julian not only doubling as secret service and our boyfriends, but just because it was my last year of college, and after this I was finally going to be in the real world, that was terrifying.

Time Jump – Graduation

Clary POV:

I couldn't believe it was finally here. I was graduating college, and this past year was just insane to say the least. Having Simon, Julian and Jace around was amazing. I knew they would protect me if they needed too, but it was also nice to just being with him as my boyfriend. Which was another strange concept in and of itself. Being with Jace felt so natural. It was like breathing. Falling asleep in his arms, and waking up the same way. People might think we moved really fast, but when something feels so right, everything just comes so naturally, and that's what happened with Jace. Being with him, was like being at home, and I loved that.

When the ceremony was over, Izzy, Emma and I went to find our families. I was so excited to have them here, and to show them my home away from home. There were so many kids that it felt like it took forever to spot them, but when I finally did, I couldn't contain my smile. I walked over and my dad enveloped me in a huge hug.

"I'm so proud of you Clarissa." He said and I couldn't help but smile.

"Thanks dad." I said and than my mom hugged me.

"I can't believe you're all grown up." She said and I laughed.

"I'm only 23 mom. I have some more time before I'm all grown." I said and he laughed.

"Congrates little sis." Jonathan said and I smiled. I knew that was the most sincere thing I was going to get from him, and I was okay with that.

"Where is Jace?" My dad asked.

"He told me he was heading straight home after the ceremony to set everything up. Plus his mom and sister were coming, so he wanted to meet them there." I said and they nodded.

When we got everyone together we headed home, and when we walked in the whole house smelled amazing. We made our way into the living area, and Celine and Cecilia were sitting at the bar laughing along as Jace cooked. I loved seeing them together, they were a really loving group, and seeing them together was always really nice.

"Clary!" Cecilia shouted as she made her way over to me and gave me a huge hug. "I've missed you." She said as she pulled away.

"I missed you too." I said and Celine made her way over to me.

"Congratulations sweetheart." She said as she pulled me into a hug.

"Thanks Celine." I said and she smiled. Everyone began mingling, and getting drinks. I made my way into the kitchen to keep Jace company.

"Hi." I said as I snaked my arms around his waist.

"Hello." He said as he turned around and pressed his lips to mine. "I'm so proud of you."

"Thank you." I said. "I'm proud of you too." I said and he looked at me with a confused expression. "You made it through an entire year without teaching kids how to disarm an explosive. I'm really proud of that." I said and he laughed.

"I wanted to so many time." He said and I laughed. "But I knew I couldn't risk getting fired, although I'm fairly certain your father could have pulled a few strings, but I was only going to make that happen as a last resort." He said and I just shook my head.

"What are you making?" I asked as I looked at the stove.

"A little bit of everything. Go join the others. I'll be done soon." He said.

"You sure you won't be too lonely?" I asked and he smirked.

"I'll be out in 10 minutes." He said and I smiled, I gave him a kiss before gathering with the others in the living room.

"I can't believe I actually graduated college. It feels really anticlimactic." Simon said and everyone laughed.

"But now you have a degree to do whatever you want after you leave the secret service." Izzy said and Simon shrugged.

"It feels weird to have a college degree, but I finally fit in." Simon said and everyone laughed again.

"Welcome to the club Lewis." I said and he raised his glass to me.

We all sat around and talked for a little while longer until Jace informed us that the food was ready. Everyone started making their way over to the food, while Jace made his way over to me. I pulled me into a hug, and I melted against him.

"I love you." He whispered in my ear and I pulled back because I just couldn't believe it. "I love you so much." He said and tears pooled in my eyes.

"I love you too." I said and he pressed his lips to mine. When we broke apart I couldn't help but smile. Jace grabbed my hand and led me into the kitchen to get some food. We all sat around the living room and ate, and laughed, and talked about everything. I looked around and I couldn't be happier with how everything turned out. I might not have a conventional family, but I loved them all the same. I didn't know what the future held for me, but I knew it would be amazing simply because I had all these amazing people in my life, and I had Jace by my side, and with him, I felt like I could conquer the world, and that's exactly what I planned on doing.

Authors Note:

I know, I totally SUCK! It's been a week since I updated, but I just haven't been inspired, and it's been bringing me down! But I finally got inspired by whoever suggested that Clary being the first daughter, and Jace be in the secret service, so congrates to whoever got my brain moving! I have no idea when I'll be updating with another one shot. I have a lot of school work that I needed to get done before I can write anymore! Thank you for all being incredibly patient with me, and always being supportive! It means a lot! :)

Also, since I took so long to update, I'm going to let you in on a little secret, this one shot is over 17,000 words long, and it is without a doubt my longest one shot EVER! I felt so bad leaving you guys hanging for so long, I thought having an extra long one was a good way to make up for that!

Also, for those who asked why I'm perpetually sad, there is no simple answer to that question, but I will give you a condensed version. Life sucks. Shits happens. Happiness is overrated. Okay, maybe happiness isn't overrated exactly, and I'm not saying things don't make me happy, but I'm generally a very negative and pessimistic person. I'm the type that looks at the glass half empty, not half full, and that just has to do with experiences that I've had in my life. Life isn't all butterflies and rainbows, sometimes it's eating disorders, and debilitating diseases that take your loved one. Everyone goes through shit, and it shapes them into the person that they are, and life just happened to give me a lot of shit, and I've been trying to figure out a way to navigate my way through life, but it's not as easy as it looks! Trust me.

Okay, enough of the really deep and emotional stuff! Let me know what you think of this one shot, and leave a review! I'm always down for reading what you think and want to say! :)