Eighty Seventh One Shot:

Jon's BFF

Jace POV:

I don't know when it exactly started. I've known the Morgenstern family since I was 10 years old. My family moved into their school district and Jon and I clicked immediately. He was like the brother I never had, but always wanted. We played the same sports, were into the same music, liked the same video games, always had the same taste in girls but never went after an ex. Everything about our friendship was brotherly and great. I truly cherished our friendship no matter how girly that sounded.

What I didn't expect was his sister. Clarissa Morgenstern, or as she preferred to be called, Clary. She was 4 years younger than us. When we met, she was 6 and I always just thought of her as a little sister. Jon and I protected her when we felt she needed it, and made sure she always felt safe. That's what brothers did, and I took that role over when Jon and I got close. What I wasn't expecting was coming home after Jon and I were finished our sophomore year of college, and her looking grown up. And not just because I knew she was going to be a junior in high school, but because she looked older.

Clary has always been shy. Not because she was unable to make friends, or scared of being rejected but simply because she didn't really have much to say so she kept to herself. Once you got to know her and she opened up to you she was actually really funny, and witty, and sarcastic. When I dropped Jon off at his house when we were coming home for the summer and I saw her in their front yard in cut off jean shorts, and a cut off t-shirt, with her hair in a messy bun, and wearing make up, but it wasn't overbearing, something in me changed. It was like I was seeing Clary in a new light, and it scared me. This was Jon's sister. My best friends little sister. Someone who I looked at like a sister until that moment. Jon asked if I wanted to stay for dinner but I made up an excuse about my mom needing me and left. I wanted to stay, but I was afraid Clary would be freaked out if I kept staring at her.

It took me a couple days before I went back to the Morgenstern house. I needed some time to process Clary, and figure out what I was feeling towards her. But I couldn't put it off inevitably because Jon would start to get suspicious so when Isabelle Lightwood, Clary's best friend, invited us over to her house to swim, and since it was like 100 degrees outside, we all took advantage of that. When I got there, I took a deep breath and opened the gate. I walked in and didn't see Clary at first so I thought I had some time, but I knew that wasn't the case when I saw Jon.

"Hey man, glad you made time for me." Jon said and I laughed.

"Sorry, I was just busy at home." I said, which wasn't a complete lie, but not exactly the truth.

"All good." He said as he tossed me a beer. "Any big plans for the summer?" He asked.

"Family vacation in the middle of July." I said. "Although, I don't really know if it could be considered a vacation."

"Why not?" He asked.

"My grandmother is ill." I explained. "My parents want to go back to England and visit incase she doesn't make it much longer."

"That sucks man." He said.

"Yea. But she's like 98." I said with a laugh. "I'm impressed she's still alive, and up until she got sick, was still gardening."

"The Herondale Gene is strong." Jon said and I laughed.

"You ain't lying." I said. "Where are the girls?" I asked realizing that Izzy wasn't around either.

"Inside." Jon said. "You know Izzy, they need to look perfect before they are allowed to leave the house." He said and I nodded. I heard the back door open, and out walked Izzy followed by two girls that I vaguely remember, and than out walked an angel. Clary was wearing a dark green bikini. She had the perfect curves and her assets fit her body perfectly. "Keep staring at my sister and she might catch on." I heard Jon whisper and I choked.

"I don't know what you're talking about." I stammered out and he laughed.

"Please, I saw the way you looked at her when you dropped me off at my house a couple days ago." Jon said. "And I know Celine wasn't even home the past couple days since you told me the day before we came home that her and your father were in California on business. Which is why I invited you for dinner."

"I – I should have thought that one through." I admitted and he laughed.

"Yea, but I didn't say anything because you looked extremely out of your element." He said.

"Was I that obvious?" I asked and he laughed.

"Let's just say, it's a good thing you were in your car, and Clary was 75 feet away at best." Jon explained and I groaned and hung my head. "But she's my little sister, and 4 years younger, so you aren't getting off so easily."

"What does that mean?" I asked.

"It means, I was at every party with you this year, and have been since junior year of high school." Jon said. "I know how you treat girls. That will not happen with my sister."

"Even you have to admit I've calmed down a little." I said and Jon nodded.

"That doesn't mean you don't have a reputation." Jon said and I opened my mouth to speak when someone else did.

"What are you two talking about?" I heard and when I looked up there stood Clary in all her gorgeous glory.

"Jace's big plans for the summer." Jon said before I could even think.

"Oh yea?" Clary asked. "What are they?" She asked with a smile on her face. Clary was always super interested in what you were doing with you life. When I was confused about what I wanted to major in at NYU, she sat there and listened for 2 hours about my pros and cons of both majors, and I finally worked it out.

"My grandmother is ill, so my family and I will be spending the last two weeks of July in England with them."

"Oh, I'm so sorry." Clary said.

"It's okay. Like I told Jon, she's like 98 years old." I told her.

"Bless her." Clary said with a laugh.

"Yea, but I'll be nice to go back to my homeland for a few weeks. Catch up with some old friends." I explained.

"Sounds nice." She said.

"What about you?" I asked being polite.

"I'm actually going to Turks and Caicos with the Lightwoods." She said.

"Why wasn't I invited?" Jon said before I could say anything, which made me laugh.

"Because dad wants to show you the ropes of the family business this summer. You're going to be a junior in college, he wants to get you as familiarized as possible before you graduate." Clary said and Jon groaned.

"I've been working for him since I was 15. I think I know the business." Jon said.

"Not the administrative side." Clary further explained. "He was waiting until you got more brain cells, but he'll take what he can get at this point." She said with a smirk and I laughed.

"Funny sis. Real funny." Jon said.

"It was a good one Jon." I said and Clary smiled, clearly proud of herself. "How long will you be on vacation?"

"We're leaving July 6th, and aren't coming back until August 1st. So it'll be a nice long vacation." She explained.

"That sounds nice." I said and she smiled.

"Clary!" We heard and Izzy was waving her over. "Come here!"

"I should go." Clary said. "When Izzy calls, you can't ignore." She said and I laughed.

"Of course." I said. She smiled before making her way over to Izzy and the other girls. I watched her go before Jon slapped me.

"Keep you eyes to yourself Herondale." Jon said and I laughed. I would try, but it was clearly going to be impossible this summer.

Clary POV:

"Jace is totally into you." Izzy said when I took a seat.

"What are you talking about?" I asked.

"Oh please. You can't tell me you haven't noticed him staring at you?" Izzy asked and I just shook my head because I hadn't noticed at all. "Well, it's written all over his face. He's totally into you, or wants to be in you." She said as she wiggled her eyebrows.

"Gross Iz." I said as I pushed her lightly. "He thinks of me as a little sister. That's all." I said.

"I don't think so Clare." Maia said.

"Maybe he used too, but something in the way he looks at you is different." Izzy explained. "I don't want to sound rude, but you have filled out the last couple years, and you've started wearing make up and not caring what people think and wearing what you want. You're being you, and I think it's changing something in him."

"I really doubt it guys." I said as I looked back at Jace. He was laughing with Jon and Alec.

"You still like him." Izzy said and I turned my attention back to her. "I can see it. That school girl crush you had when we were in 7th grade isn't gone."

"So? He's Jon's best friend. Nothing can happen." I said.

"And why not?" Maia asked.

"Isn't it like bro code to not go after your best friends sisters?" I asked with a laugh.

"Jon broke girl code." Izzy said and I glared at her.

"I think you broke girl code." I pointed out. "You made out with him."

"I was drunk." Izzy said. "Not as drunk as I probably should have been to do that, but still. I don't have feelings for Jon like you have feelings for Jace."

"I'm telling you, he doesn't have those type of feelings for me." I said again. "He's going to be a junior in college, and I'm going to be a junior in high school." I said. "No 21 year old wants to be with a 17 year old."

"You'll be 18 at the end of this summer." Maia said. "And age is just a number. Don't let it get in the way of your happiness."

"I don't really want to think about boys right now." I said honestly. "Sebastian and I broke up like three weeks ago. I just want to be single, and enjoy my summer without any obligations to anyone." I said and they laughed.

"I get that, but just know, not all boys are as controlling as Sebastian was." Izzy said and I nodded. You know, some people are so good at hiding who they really are, and it makes it impossible to weed out the rotten ones before it's too late, and that's what Sebastian did. He liked to control every aspect of my life. It was an incredibly long 9 months together, but when I finally decided I was worth more than what he deserved, it felt freeing to break that connection and finally be able to enjoy my life again.

The rest of the time at the Lightwoods was spent swimming, eating and laughing while listening to amazing music. It felt great to just enjoy life again and not be miserable every single day. This was going to be the greatest summer of my life and I was so incredibly happy that I got to spend it with the people who meant the most to me.

Time Jump – 4th of July

Jace POV:

The Lightwoods were having a huge Fourth of July party, and we went every year. So far this summer has been just like every other summer. My parents worked a lot like always and I worked with them but I didn't spent 15 hours a day in the office like them. And I spent the majority of my time with Jon when we both weren't working. We both kinda had our careers laid out in front of us with out fathers both owning their own companies, and sometimes I wish I had a choice of my future career, but it wasn't a bad one, and at least I had job security after college, so I couldn't complain too much.

I walked into the Lightwoods backyard, and my eyes immediately found Clary. She was wearing a lavender colored dress, and her hair was curled perfectly with light make up. I honestly haven't been able to keep my eyes off her when we ended up in the same room together. She could literally pull off any outfit she wore, and look absolutely breath taking while doing it. I don't know why I never saw it before, but I was seeing it now, and I liked it a lot.

"Still staring I see." I heard from behind me and there stood Izzy.

"I need to start being more discrete." I said and she laughed.

"It's nothing to be ashamed of. You aren't the only guy who stares at her." Izzy said and I glared at her. "What? I'm just telling you the truth."

"Not exactly what I wanted to hear." I said and she laughed.

"Hey, you're the one who only looked at her as a sister since you've met her." She said.

"I'm well aware." I said to her.

"Other guys are allowed to find her attractive." She said.

"I get it Izzy." I said. "She's allowed to date whoever she wants, I have no claim over her what so ever." I said.

"Nope, but that could change." She said and I looked at her.

"What are you getting at?" I asked.

"Clary told me that she wants to enjoy this summer without having to answer to anyone. She wants no obligations. Her and her last boyfriend broke up right before the school year ended and he was a complete dick to her."

"How so?" I asked a little angry. No one should ever be mean to Clary.

"He was just controlling, but I'm not going into any other details because it's Clary's story to tell." She said and now I was curious. "But when we get back from vacation, explore it."

"You're a lot more supportive than Jon." I said and she laughed.

"That's his little sister. He's supposed to protect her. She's my best friend, and I'm supposed to give her a kick in the ass for her to follow her heart." She said and I nodded. "I'm just saying, don't let this summer end without you at least letting her know how you feel."

"I'll take you advice into consideration." I said and she smiled.

"That's all I ask." She said before walking away. I looked at Clary and she was smiling and laughing. I couldn't believe that any guy in this world would ever treat Clary horribly. It wasn't acceptable, and definitely something I would never do.

Time Jump – Vacation

Clary POV:

I was leaving for Turks and Caicos, and I'll admit, I was going to miss my family, but I was also super thrilled to be getting away to an island for this summer. Hanging out with my best friend on the beach, and drinking, what a better way to celebrate the summer time? We were all at the airport and I was saying goodbye to my family, and Jace. I don't know why Jon invited him but I didn't mind.

"Let us know when you get there." My mom said and I smiled.

"Of course mom." I said.

"And take lots of pictures of hot girls." Jon added and I slapped his arm before he pulled me into a hug. "I have to live vicariously through you this summer Clare. I need all the help I can get." He said and I laughed.

"We'll see." I said and he smiled.

"That's all I'm asking for." He said and than I turned to Jace, and surprisingly he pulled me into a hug. Before we pulled apart he whispered in my ear and it caused me to shiver.

"Just take a bunch of pictures of yourself. I guarantee you'll be the hottest girl on the island." He said and I was in complete shock. He pulled away and smiled at me. "Have a great time."

"Thanks." I finally managed to say before our flight boarded.

I was in complete shock until I sat in my seat. Jace Herondale just said I'd be the hottest girl on the entire island, and I literally couldn't comprehend that he just said that about me. I mean me, Clary Morgenstern, of all people.

"Why do you look so perplexed?" Izzy asked as she took her seat next to me.

"Jace whispered something in my ear when he hugged me and I stunned me. Like honestly I'm not sure it was even real." I said honestly.

"What did he say?" She asked.

"He told me to take a bunch of pictures of myself on the beach because I'd be the hottest one on the whole island." I said and she laughed.

"Told you he was into you." She simply said with her signature Izzy smirk.

"I'm literally shocked right now Iz." I said and she smiled.

"Well, we're going to be gone for almost a month. That's plenty of time to forget about it and have fun, but also enough time to figure out what you want to do when we get back." She said.

"And you think that's a wise idea?" I asked.

"Jace is a great guy Clary." She said. "His reputation in high school was risky, but he was still one of the nicest guys at that school." He said and I nodded. Despite the fact that Jace was a huge flirt, and had a different girl on his arm every other week, he was an incredibly nice guy and no one could fault him for that.

"I still don't know." I said honestly

"Well, we have a month to just get drunk and have fun." She said.

"Iz, I'm not 18 yet." I said pointing out that I'm still underage.

"But I am, and I can get you as many drinks as you want." She said and I laughed.

We were instructed to buckle up because we were going to be taking off soon and I just stared out the window and thinking about what might happen when I get back from vacation. It was definitely something I wanted to think about, and I was glad that I had this time away from everything to clear my head and figure out what I wanted to do. I felt like I needed that.

Time Jump – One Week Later

Jace POV:

I was currently sitting in the basement of the Morgenstern house. Jon and I finished work and needed to distress. It has been crazy at my dads business because we were going away soon and he wanted to have everything in order before that day and he's been running me around like a mad man.

Jon went upstairs to get some drinks and I was scrolling through my social media killing time. I was scrolling through Instagram when I noticed that Clary posted a picture. I went back and noticed that it was her sitting in the sand with a cocktail in her hand with her shades slightly falling off her face with her eyes closed as she took a sip from the drink. The caption read 'and she dreamed of paradise every time she closed her eyes.' She looked absolutely stunning and it made me want to be right there next to her soaking her in.

I closed out Instagram after liking her picture and went on Snapchat. I looked through all the stories when I got to Clary's. I clicked on it and Clary was in a club, with another drink in her hand dancing to the music that was playing in the background. She was wearing a fun floral dress and she was in heels. She looked picture perfect, and just hearing her laugh was everything to me.

Jon walked back down to the basement with a soda and reclaimed his seat on the couch. I was still watching the video and when Clary started talking he looked over at me.

"Is that Clary?" He asked.

"Yea. It's her Snapchat story." I explained. "She looks like she's having the time of her life." I said.

"Yea. You see that scandalous picture she put on Instagram?" He asked and I laughed.

"I think she looked great." I said honestly.

"Of course you would." He said. "I on the other hand don't want to see my sister like that."

"She's just in a bathing suit." I pointed out.

"A bathing suit picked out by Isabelle Lightwood is never just a bathing suit, it's a statement. A statement that screams 'look at me', not normally something Clary is about. She likes to blend in. You know that." Jon explained.

"I know, but maybe she's finally feeling comfortable enough in her own skin." I said. "You know how she was really self-conscious about her body in middle school."

"I know, and I'm glad she's finally embracing everything about herself. She's a great person. Personality, looks, and character wise, but that doesn't mean I want her showing off her goods to the world." He said and I laughed.

"It's hardly showing off her goods." I said and he rolled his eyes.

"Whatever man, just grab the controller and start playing." He said and I did as I was told and we continued with our game. He might not like the outfits Clary was wearing, but I certainly did, and I was happy to know that Clary was embracing her sexy side. It suited her, and she looked carefree and happy and that's all I could ask for.

Time Jump – One Week Later

Jace POV:

I've been in England for a couple days now, and even though I haven't seen my grandmom in a couple years, I wasn't prepared for how ill she truly looked. She's always been incredibly strong, and independent and just seeing her this frail and dependent was really tough.

I could tell it was tearing my dad apart. I've never seen him show so much emotion in my whole life, but in the last few days, I've seen him cry at least 3 times, and just look dead on the outside staying up all night with his mom making sure she was comfortable. Even my mom was worried about my dad, and I just couldn't imagine what he was going to be like when she dies. It was going to be tough that was for sure. It was raining today, so I figured that I'd just stay at home and sit with my grandmom and spend some time with her before she goes. I knocked softly on the door and opened it to see her sitting in bed.

"Gran?" I asked and she looked over at me.

"Jonathan." She said. "So lovely to see you again." She said. I made my way over to her bedside and took a seat. She was the only person in this world allowed to call me Jonathan without a lecture coming right after it.

"It's good to see you too Gran." I said. "How are you feeling?" I asked.

"I've seen better days." She said with a smile. "How have you been enjoying your time in England?" She asked.

"I've enjoyed it a lot. I've missed it." I admitted.

"I've missed having you guys around." She said. "You kept me young." She said and I laughed.

"You're looking better today." I said and she smiled.

"I still have some good days." She said. "The rain definitely helps." She said as she looked out the giant bay window. It was opened and you could hear the calming sound of the rain. "So, we haven't had the time to catch up." She said. "Anything new in your life?"

"Not really." I admitted.

"No special someone?" She asked and I smiled and looked down. "Who is she?"

"Believe it or not, my best friends younger sister." I admitted. "We aren't together or anything, but I like her. A lot." I said honestly.

"What's she like?" She asked.

"Well, she's going to be a junior in high school this upcoming year." I said and her eyes widened. "I know, she's young, but only by 4 years." I said and she simply nodded. "She's exceptionally short. She has the most vibrant red hair, the most adorable freckles, and the most mesmerizing green eyes I've ever seen." I said and I couldn't help but smile.

"Do you have a picture of her?" She asked. I nodded and pulled my phone out. I found a good picture, well amongst the other good pictures of her, and showed it to her. "Oh my, she is gorgeous."

"I know." I simply said. "And she's so kind, and down to earth, she's funny, and witty, and smart." I rambled on about her.

"You sound really taken with her." Gran said.

"I am." I said honestly.

"So, why aren't you together?" She asked.

"Well, she went on vacation with her best friend for nearly a month, and I came here for a couple weeks. I haven't exactly been able to express my feelings towards her." I said.

"What are you waiting for?" She asked.

"The right time I guess." I admitted.

"Oh sweetheart, there is no such thing as the right or wrong time." She said. "Take it from an old soul like myself." She smiled. "When you know, every time is the proper time to express those feelings. Other wise you might miss out, and it sucks to be on your death bed with regrets."

"Is that personal experience seeping through Gran?" I asked.

"I have regrets, yes. And I've never regretted them as much as I do right now." She said.

"Like what?" I asked curiously.

"I had the chance to tour the world with my amateur band in college." She said.

"No way!" I said and she laughed.

"Way." She smiled. "We were so thrilled to get that call."

"Why didn't you do it?" I asked.

"Your Pa thought it was a waste of time." She admitted. "He told me that if I went, he might not be there when I got back."

"That's horrible." I said.

"I don't regret choosing him." She said. "Otherwise I wouldn't have you." She reached her hand out, and I took it in mine. "But I regret not standing my ground and fighting for what I wanted."

"Do you think that would have worked?" I asked.

"Not to sound full of myself, but your grandfather was head over heels in love with me." She said and I laughed. "He would have waited, when he saw how much it meant to me, he would have supported me."

"Anything else?" I asked. I realized in this moment that I didn't really know that much about her past.

"Little things here and there." She said. "Letting your father and mother move to America. Not attending all your extra curricular activities. Not having more kids. Not learning another hobby." She smiled. "Little things that don't seem important at the time that really add up in the end."

"I admire you Gran." I said.

"You do?" She asked sounding shocked.

"Of course." I said. "You've lived a life. You've achieved your dreams. You've overcome so much." I explained. "I can only hope that I accomplish half as much as you do in my life time."

"I just have one piece of advice." She said and I nodded. "Don't take life too seriously." She said. "Have fun. Don't throw yourself into work. Take vacations. Explore. Be there for your future kids. Make it home for dinner. Stay home when someone is sick. Build forts in the living room. Pretend the floor is lava." She said and I laughed. "Have fun Jonathan. You only get one life. Don't waste it trying to achieve something that ultimately won't make you happy."

"I will Gran." I said and she smiled. The door opened and in walked her nurse.

"It's time for your nap Imogen." She said.

"Oh, and don't get a nurse when you're my age." She said. "All they do is give you medicine and make you sleep." She said and I laughed.

"Understood." I said. I stood up and kissed her cheek before walking out of the room. Gran was right, I had to tell Clary, and I would do that as soon as I got back. That's for sure.

Time Jump – End of July

Clary POV:

I couldn't believe that tonight was our last night in Turks and Caicos. It seemed like we just got here yesterday. I've had the best time of my life here, and I truly will never forget it. Well the parts I remember at least. It was wild ride, and I couldn't have asked for a better way to spend my summer. Unfortunately it was raining here today, so I was simply sitting on the porch with a book and taking in the last moments on this island.

My eyes were starting to get tired of reading the book so I decided to check my social media. It truly was such a great mindless activity. I started with Twitter, and than Facebook, and than Instagram. Nothing was catching my attention until I saw that Jace posted a photo. It was an old photo, and I thought maybe he was doing s throwback, until I read the caption.

Saying goodbye to you was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. I cherished the last two weeks we spent together. Learning about who you were in your youth, and getting to know dirty secrets about my father I would have never known before. It is a privilege to be your one and only grandson, and I am so thankful for the past two weeks. You may have been 98, but you sure didn't look or act a day over 75. I love you Gran.

I looked at the picture and Jace looked no older than 5. He was sitting in his grandmother's lap, and he had the most adorable grin on his face. He looked like the definition of true happiness in that picture, and my heart went out to him. I didn't have any grandparents. They all died before I was born, so I didn't know what it was like to lose someone, but I can't imagine its fun.

"Hey. I've been looking for you." I heard and in the doorway, there stood Izzy.

"I've been here." I said. "Did you see Jace's Instagram post?" I asked as she took a seat.

"Yea. Very sweet." She said.

"It's so sad." I said.

"He did say she was 98." Izzy pointed out. "She lived one hell of a long life." She said and I laughed.

"I know. I've just never lost someone. I can't imagine how he feels." I said.

"He's probably upset." Izzy said. "We're going out to dinner. Come get ready with me." She said and I nodded. I grabbed my book and went inside. The whole night I couldn't get Jace out of my head. Something about that picture, that caption, and him in general was stuck in my mind, and I couldn't seem to shake it, but I also didn't want too.

Time Jump – Beginning of August

Jace POV:

When I got back from England I basically spent all my time with Jon. My dad gave me time off to heal, and I was grateful for that. Losing my Pa was hard, but losing my Gran was definitely harder. I was sitting in Jon's living room by myself. They were all at work, but let me stay here anyway. I was flipping through the channels when the front door opened and in walked Clary.

"Not the face I was prepared to see." She said with a laugh.

"Sorry to disappoint." I said. "Do you need some help?" I offered.

"That'd be great." She said. I got up and grabbed her giant suitcase. "I didn't realize how heavy that would be."

"Where would you like it?" I asked.

"Laundry room please." She said and I nodded. I walked it into the laundry room and placed it next to the washer. When I got back to the living room Clary was sitting on the couch.

"Tired?" I asked as I retook my seat.

"It's only a 3 and a half hour flight, but traveling is so exhausting." She said and I laughed.

"Yea, I'm still adjusting from the time difference from England to here." I said and she nodded.

"I'm sorry about your grandmother Jace." She said and I looked at her.

"Thanks." I said. "It was tough, but she lived a life. Can't think of a better age to go than 2 years short of 100." I said and she laughed.

"Your grandmother seemed like quite a character." She said.

"She was." I admitted. "She told you how it was, and never sugar coated anything." I said. "Sometimes it was pretty harsh, but that's just how she was, and I loved her for that. Plus, if I was sucking at something, or getting bad marks in school, or just being an overall piece of shit, she always let me hear it, and I took it and learned from it."

"I wish I could have met her." She said and I was shocked.

"Really?" I asked.

"I feel like I would have liked her." She said as he cheeks flushed red.

"You would have. And she would have liked you too." I said honestly and she smiled.

"Well, I feel like I smell like airport and seaweed." She said and I laughed. "I'm going to go shower."

"You smell great." I muttered as she got off the couch.

"What was that?" She asked and I wish I just stuck to saying it in my head.

"I said you smell great." I said honestly. "Like sun tan lotion, and sea salt." I admitted and she blushed.

"Well, I'm glad you think so." She said before she disappeared upstairs. I sat back on the couch and took a deep breath. That could have gone worse, so that was a positive sign.

Clary POV:

I got upstairs and when I got into the bathroom I immediately dialed Izzy.

"It's been like 30 minutes. I know you missed me, but this is just reaching stage 4 clinger." She said with a laugh.

"I just had the weirdest conversation with Jace." I said.

"Tell me everything." She said.

I went into our conversation that I just had. I turned the water on making sure that he couldn't hear me from downstairs, although I knew he most likely couldn't.

"I told you he liked you." She said.

"What do I do?" I asked.

"Go with it." She said. "You have a month before school starts. See where things go with Jace. Have fun."

"But he goes back to school at the end of August. I don't want to be some stupid summer fling for him, and than him get back to his college girls." I admitted.

"Is that what you're really scared of Clare?" She asked.

"Yes." I barely said but she heard me.

"Clarissa Adele Morgenstern, it's been almost 2 months since I've noticed the signs, if he wasn't truly interested, he would have moved on." She said and I sighed.

"I guess you're right." I admitted and she laughed.

"When am I ever wrong?" She asked.

"When you gave me that drink last week that blacked me out after 2 sips." I said with a laugh. "Worst hangover of my life."

"But you had fun. That's all that matters." She said.

"Okay, well I'm going to take a shower. Thanks for the advice Iz." I said.

"It's what I'm here for." She said. We hung up and I got in the shower and thought about what the hell I was going to do. I had a month to figure things out with Jace, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous about the whole thing.

When I got out of the shower and changed, I walked downstairs to see Jace sitting in the same exact position that I left him in. I laughed and made my way over to the couch and took a seat.

"Are you waiting for Jon?" I asked.

"I was, but he just texted me and told me that him and your dad are working late tonight." He said. "So I guess I'll just leave." He said as he got up and I instantly felt empty knowing he was leaving.

"Do you know if my mom's coming home?" I asked out of nowhere hoping to delay his departure.

"She's working late tonight as well." Jace said and I nodded.

"Guess I'm on my own for dinner." I said.

"We could go out." He said and I looked up at him. "My parents threw themselves into work even more after we got back so I'm on my own as well." He explained. "And I don't know about you, but it's been a long time since I've had Taki's." He said and I laughed.

"Oh how I've missed Taki's." I said as I stood up. We walked out of my house and got into his car and headed over to the familiar diner that everyone in this town went too. We got in and made our way to the booth we normally sat in. it was weird not being crammed in there with friends, but I liked just seeing Jace's face across from mine.

"Jace." We both heard and turned to see where it came from. The only downside of this place: Kaelie. "It's been a long time."

"That it has Kaelie." Jace said. "How are you?" He asked. He may have hooked up with the girl all throughout high school, and she kind of turned into a nightmare when he decided to end their casual relationship but he was always incredibly polite.

"I've been good." She said. "And time has been good to you. Damn you just get better looking every year." She said and she eyed him up.

"I appreciate the compliment." Jace said and than Kaelie realized that I was there as well.

"You're Jon's sister right?" She asked, and I simply nodded. "Another eye candy that I miss seeing around here." She said. "What can I get for you?" She asked.

"I'll have a burger and fries, and a vanilla milkshake." I said and she nodded.

"And you Jace?" She asked.

"Coconut pancakes with orange juice and a cup of coffee." He said and she nodded before taking our menus and leaving.

"In the breakfast mood?" I asked and he smiled.

"It's been awhile since I've been here, and you know they're my favorite on the menu." He simply said and I nodded.

We sat there and just talked about everything and anything. There wasn't a topic that I couldn't discuss with Jace. Since I've known him practically my whole life, there wasn't much he didn't know about me except for what I decided to keep from Jon, and for good reasons as well.

"Can I ask you something?" He asked when we finished our food.

"Of course." I said not knowing where this was going.

"At the Lightwood Fourth of July party, Izzy told me something I haven't been able to forget about." He said and I just nodded. "She told me that you were looking forward to go to Turks and Caicos because you just wanted to be free and have no obligations to anyone." He explained and I nodded again. "She said it was because you had a controlling boyfriend."

"Oh god." I said as I hung my head until I felt a hand rest on top of mine.

"How come Jon or I didn't know you had a boyfriend?" He simply asked.

"Didn't seem important at the time." I said honestly. "You two are in a different part of life than I am and what two college guys want to know about high school relationships?" I asked.

"It would have been nice to know." He said. "Especially if he was a dick."

"That was more of a reason not to tell you." I said. "I know you and Jon. Rather well, and you would have come home and beat the shit out of him."

"Because you are worth so much more than any man trying to control you." He said. "How bad did it get?" He asked and I really didn't want to tell him. "How bad Clary?" He asked after a few minutes of my silence.

"He hit me a few times." I finally admitted.

"What the fuck." Jace said and I could tell he was mad. "Why?" He asked.

"Because I wasn't listening to him." I said.

"Do I know him?" He asked and I shook my head.

"He transferred in the beginning of sophomore year." I explained. "I was the person who was showing him around." I said as I remembered the beginning of the relationship. "He was kind, and smart, and charming." I said. "Every girl at school wanted him, and some how he wanted me? I was shocked."

"Why is that so shocking?" Jace asked, and when I looked at him he seemed genuinely confused.

"Because nobody wants me." I said honestly. "I'm always known as Isabelle Lightwood's best friend. When guys talk to me, it's because they want to know more about Izzy." I said. "And I was okay with that. I had accepted it, but than he came along, and suddenly I was the girl that others wanted to me. I have to admit, it felt good. Empowering even."

"When did he change?" Jace asked.

"A couple months into the relationship. I noticed that he had been lying to me." I said. "And it wasn't even about anything important. It was all dumb shit."

"Like what?" Jace asked.

"He would lie about why he was late to class, or when he used to pick me up in the morning and he'd be a couple minutes late he'd lie about where he was." I said. "I didn't think anything of it because who really cares why he was a few minutes late."

"Did you ever find out the real reason?" Jace asked.

"Yea." I said. "It turned out he was sneaking around with other girls." I said with a humorless laugh. "I confronted him about it, and when he told me to be quiet, I just got louder. That was the first time he hit me."

"Why didn't you leave?" Jace asked.

"He would apologize profusely." I said. "Tell me that he didn't mean it, and that he can't believe he let his anger get the best of him. He would buy me gifts, and take me out to really romantic dinners, and dates. I thought he was being sincere."

"How long were you with him?" Jace asked.

"9 months." I said. "We started dating at the end of September, and it was about a week before school ended and I decided that I couldn't take it anymore. It needed to end."

"What was the final thing that happened to make you realize that?" Jace asked.

"Izzy found out." I said. "I missed school for two days because my ribs were bruised and I had a black eye. I texted her and told her I was sick." I explained. "Izzy being the most kind hearted person I've ever met, grabbed my homework, and showed up with my favorite soup." I said with a smile. "She took one look at me, and flipped. The next day she confronted him, and he didn't take that well. He threatened to hurt Izzy if she ever told anyone, and I couldn't let her be one of his victims as well." I said. "Once I healed I told him it was over, and that was that."

"He just gave up?" Jace asked. "I'm not very knowledgeable on abusive men, but I'm going to go out on a limb and say they normally don't just give up."

"He tried to talk to me the last week, but I ignored him. Turns out he was just here for one school year. So after the year was over, he went back to his country, and I haven't heard from him since." I said and he nodded.

"You know you're worth more than that, don't you?" Jace said and I couldn't help but smile.

"I do now." I said with a smile. "It also helped that I had Izzy helping me through the whole thing." I said. "I don't think I would have been able to get through it without her."

"I'm glad you had her." Jace said and I nodded. "So, I have another thing I want to talk to you about." He said and I nodded. "How would you like to go out with me?" He asked and my jaw dropped.

"You're serious?" I asked and he laughed.

"Why wouldn't I be?" He asked.

"Because you're Jon's best friend, and you could do so much better than a junior in high school." I said and he smiled.

"None of that matters to me." He said. " I like you. A lot Clary, and I'm hoping that we could see where this goes. That is, if you like me as well."

"I can't believe it." I said as I laughed.

"Why not?" He asked.

"I just can't believe you like me. I thought it was impossible." I said with a laugh.

"Can I consider that a yes?" He asked and I smiled.

"Yes." I said and he smiled.

"Tomorrow night." He said. "I'll pick you up at 6?" He asked.

"Sounds perfect." I said.

He paid for our food and than he drove me home. I said goodbye and went inside and ran to my room. I laid down on my bed and finally processed what happened. I had a date with Jace tomorrow night, and I had nothing to wear. I immediately picked up my phone and called Izzy.

"Twice in one day, this must be important." Izzy said when she answered.

"I have a date with Jace tomorrow night." I blurted out.

"Oh my god!" She squealed.

"I don't know what to wear." I admitted.

"Well, do you have any idea what he's planning?" She asked.

"Not a clue. He asked me out over dinner tonight, and I was so shocked that I didn't even think to ask." I explained.

"Wait, you had dinner with him tonight?" She asked.

"Yea. He was here when I got home, and he was waiting for Jon but apparently him and my dad had to work late and my mom was working late as well, so I was going to be home alone for dinner. He than told me that he was going to be alone for dinner, and we went to Taki's together." I explained.

"So you've already been on a date with him." She said.

"But that wasn't labeled so it was really chill. This is going to be an actual date." I said and I heard her laugh.

"Just be yourself Clare." She said.

"Okay, but that still doesn't help me out with the clothing what so ever." I said and she laughed again.

"When is he picking you up?" Izzy asked.

"6." I said.

"Okay. I'll be over at 3 to figure it all out." She said.

"You're a life saver Iz." I said.

"I know." She said and we hung up. I couldn't get the smile off my face the rest of the night. I finally had a date with the guy I've liked for a couple years now.

Time Jump – Date

Jace POV:

I got to the Morgenstern house and since I was so familiar and welcomed, I didn't knock on the front door, I just walked in. Jon was sitting in the living room and was surprised to see me.

"What are you doing here?" He asked.

"I guess I should have told you." I said. "I have a date with Clary tonight." I explained.

"Explains why Izzy has been here all afternoon." Jon said and I simply nodded and joined him on the couch. "What are you doing with her tonight? And I swear if you answer with anything relating to something sexual, I'll kick you in the dick." Jon said and I laughed.

"Nothing sexual." I said. "But I don't want to explain it to you because you're going to call me a little bitch." I said and he laughed.

"Pulling out all the stops huh?" Jon asked.

"She means a lot to me." I said. "She deserves all the stops."

"Treat her right man." Jon said. "Like I told you, I'm her brother first, your friend second."

"I understand." I said. We sat there in silence waiting for Clary to come downstairs, and I couldn't even begin to explain how nervous I was, which didn't happen often, which goes to show that this meant more to me than I thought.

Clary POV:

"Do I look okay?" I asked Izzy as I stared at myself in the mirror.

"You can't possibly look any better." Izzy reassured me for the 9th time. "He's going to be drooling over you."

"That's kinda gross." I laughed and she smiled.

"It's almost 6, I'm going to get going. Good luck, have fun, make out, and tell me all about it tomorrow." She said and I laughed.

"Thank you so much Izzy." I said and she smiled.

"What are best friends for?" She said before leaving my room. I looked in the mirror once more to see if everything was perfect. Since it was a summer night, and I didn't know what we were doing, Izzy decided that I would wear something casual but also something cute that way it could go either way. We decided on a black romper, which was short enough to be pretty sexy, but long enough so that I didn't look like a skank. It had spaghetti straps but also sleeves that hung off my shoulders, and I was wearing cute sandals. Izzy curled my hair and my make up wasn't over bearing but noticeable enough. I took a deep breath before heading downstairs.

Thankfully Izzy hadn't tried to strong arm me into heels because knowing my luck, I would trip down the stairs and just embarrass the living hell out of myself in front of Jace, and than my chances with him would disappear all together. I walked down the stairs and there was Jace and Jon sitting on the couch. I guess they both heard the creaking of the stairs and both of them looked in my direction. Jace looked stunned and Jon didn't look too pleased.

"What the hell are you wearing?" Jon said first, which kinda ruined the moment, but I figured Jon would say something like that.

"Do you not like it?" I asked as I looked down at myself seconding guessing Izzy's choice.

"Don't listen to him Clare." Jace said. "You look absolutely beautiful." He said when he got off the couch. He wasn't very fancy either, so I figured this would be causal which was nice. I liked causal, plus it helped with my nerves.

"Of course you think she looks good." Jon said. "But you're opening it up for all those pervs to gawk at you."

"You really think I'd let anyone gawk at her?" Jace said to Jon, which caused me to blush.

"You better keep the creeps away." Jon said in his big brother voice.

"Nothing will happen to her." Jace reassured him. Jon simply nodded and Jace turned his attention back to me. "Are you ready?"

"Yea." I said and he reached his hand out and I took it happily.

"You have a curfew Clarissa." Jon said. "Be back by midnight."

"Yes father." I said sarcastically as I saluted him, which caused Jace to laugh.

We walked out to his car and he opened the door for me. When we were all settled he started driving, and I was really curious as to where we were going. It felt like we were in the car for hours before he pulled up to a park. I looked at Jace very confused, but she simply smiled. He got out and before I could even blink he was opening my door. He reached his hand out, and I took it and he helped me out of the car.

"What are we doing here?" I asked as he popped his truck and pulled out a picnic basket. "A picnic?" I asked.

"I hope that's okay." He said. He sounded so nervous it was endearing.

"It's perfect." I said. He took my hand in his again, and I think he just liked holding my hand but I didn't mind. They fit perfectly together.

He set out the blanket and we took out seat on the blanket. He pulled the food out, and it was a simple meal. Grilled cheese for both of us, and some raspberry iced tea. One of my favorites.

"You remembered." I said and he smiled.

"I was going to make classic peanut butter and jelly, but than I remembered you're allergic to peanuts, and you hate jelly, so that went out the window." Jace explained and I laughed. "I remembered when you were in middle school, you were obsessed with my grilled cheeses." He said and I laughed again. "I figured it was perfect."

"It's absolutely perfect." I said and he smiled and we began eating.

This picnic with Jace just reminded why I liked him so much. He was funny, and charming, and handsome, and sweet, and kind, and everything any girl would be happy to have in a man. He was the total package, and I still couldn't get over the fact that he was on a date with me. That he asked me on a date. It seemed surreal. When we were finished dinner, the sun began to set. Jace removed everything from the blanket and laid down. He held his arm out and I curled next to him. Once the sun fully set the stars came out. We laid there together just star gazing, and I was honestly on cloud 9.

"Tell me something I don't know about yourself." Jace said out of nowhere.

"You know pretty much everything about me." I said honestly. "You've known me since I was 6, there isn't much else to me than what you already know."

"Clearly not. I didn't know you had a boyfriend." He said.

"One bad boyfriend isn't huge." I said.

"So you've had more than one?" He asked.

"Yes." I said.

"How many are we talking?" He asked, and he sounded a little jealous which caused me to laugh.

"3." I said honestly.

"Do I know them?" Jace asked.

"Uh, well you didn't know Sebastian." I said. "Do you remember Bat Velasquez?" I asked.

"Uh, kinda. He was a year younger than me right?" He asked.

"Yea. And the third was Matt Charlton."

"Don't know him." Jace said.

"Yea. He was in my grade. First boyfriend. We dated for like 3 months."

"How long were you with Bat?" He asked.

"After Matt and I broke up, I was single for a couple months. I met Bat in detention believe it or not, and we both liked talking to each other and getting to know each other. We dated until the end of my freshman year, and realized it was going to work with him going to college. It was a mutual break up. No hard feelings between us." I explained.

"That's not a time length." Jace said with a laugh.

"We were together for about 5 months maybe 6." I said.

"You don't even remember?" He laughed and I smiled.

"It was more of a friends with benefits kinda thing, but we didn't cheat. It was exclusive." I said.

"So didn't need to know that." Jace said.

"It came in handy." I said. "I was kinda an amateur before him."

"La la la." He said as he plugged his ears, which caused me to get closer to him and I laughed.

"What? I didn't have much experience kissing people. Matt and I barely kissed, and when we did it was a simple peck." I explained.

"I guess I'll have to see how much Bat taught you." He said and I smiled.

"I guess you will. But I'll have you know, I haven't had any complaints thus far in my life." I said and he shook his head and laughed.

"Can I ask you something a little more personal?" He asked and I nodded. "Are you a virgin?" He asked and it caught me off guard. And never in my life had I wished I could say yes.

"No." I said honestly, and he turned to look at me.

"Sebastian?" He asked and I nodded. "At least tell me it was consensual." He said and I sighed. "No fucking way."

"It wasn't forced." I explained because he needed to know every detail to understand. "The first time we almost had sex, I stopped him because I wasn't ready. The second time we got super close but my mom came home early, and we stopped." I said. "The third time though, this got heated fast, and I went to stop him because I wasn't ready but I was too late. He was in me and I just remember crying my eyes out." I said. "I wasn't prepared for the pain in the slightest."

"I can't believe he did that." Jace said.

"I just wanted you to know that I wasn't forced, but I also had no time to say yes verbally." I admitted. "We were in a very compromising position and naked."

"It might not have been rape Clary, but it wasn't your choice." Jace said.

"I know, and I wish I could take it back, but I can't." I said.

"I'm really sorry." Jace said and I shrugged. He put his finger under my chin and lifted it up so that our eyes were locked. "Your first time shouldn't have been like that. It should have been special, because you deserve nothing but the best."

"Thank you." I simply said.

"Is there anything else I should know?" He asked.

"I've had the biggest crush on you for years." I openly admitted.

"Really?" He asked seeming shocked.

"Yea. It started in like 7th grade." I said with a laugh. "It's hard not to when you were constantly over my house. Plus you actually talked to me. Not a lot of Jon's friends did that."

"You were always really easy to talk too." Jace admitted. "Plus I felt like I was apart of the family. And that meant you."

"Yea, but you only viewed me as a sister." I said.

"That is true." Jace said.

"So what changed?" I asked curiously.

"Dropping Jon off at the beginning of the summer. I saw you on your front lawn and something in me changed. It was like everything I knew about you, and about our friendship was completely different. That's why I kept my distance for a few days." HE said honestly.

"I had that much of an affect on you?" I asked, now it was my turn to be shocked.

"Yea." He said. "I've never had that before. It was like I was finally enlightened to this whole knew world that I didn't even know existed."

"Wow." I simply said and he laughed.

"Wow what?" He asked.

"I didn't know I could do that." I said and he smiled.

"You Clarissa Morgenstern are one of a kind." He said. "I can't believe it's taken me so long to notice."

"Well, in your defense, I am 4 years younger than you." I said. "If you saw me in that way when I was 12 and you were 16, it would be a little creepy." I laughed and so did he.

"I guess you're right." He said. "So Clary, will there be a second date?" He asked and I smiled.

"There most certainly will be." I said. Jace propped himself up on his one elbow which caused him to hover over me slightly. His eyes flickered down to my lips and he hesitated for a moment before he leaned down and pressed them together. Kissing him was something that I never thought I'd get to experience but now that I have, I never wanted to stop.

We laid there kissing for who knows how long. My lips were getting chapped, and my breathing became labored but I didn't care. I didn't want to stop, and it didn't seem like Jace did either. My hands were cupping the sides of his head, while his one arm continued to prop him up while the other was resting on my hip. This moment right here was perfect, and I couldn't wait for many more like this.

When we finally did break apart, Jace had the biggest smile on his face and so did I. He leaned forward again and pressed his lips to mine, but this time it was a sweet and simple peck. Our eyes locked, and they were such a beautiful shade of gold, that seemed to be burning brighter than I ever saw them before.

"We should head home." Jace finally said.

"What time is it?" I asked.

"11:45." He said.

"We've been here for that long?" I asked shocked and Jace laughed.

"Well, we were making out for a long time." He said and my cheeks started to burn. "I love it when you blush." He whispered as he ran his fingers over my cheeks.

"I hate it." I admitted.

"It lets me know I'm doing something right." He said in such a sweet and sincere voice.

"I think the make out session should have been your sign you were doing something right." I said and he laughed.

"That too." He said. "But you can fake that, you can't fake a blush."

"I'm not that experienced where I can fake that mush passion in a kiss." I said.

"Come on. I don't want Jon to ban me from taking you out again." He said as he stood up. He pulled me up and right into his chest.

"Jon wouldn't do that." I said.

"And why wouldn't he?" He asked.

"Because banning you from me is like banning you from him, and you two can't survive without each other." I said and Jace laughed.

"He'd take your side over mine every day of the week." Jace said and I smiled.

"Do you mind keeping what we talked about tonight to yourself?" I asked. "It happened so long ago, and I'm over it. I don't want Jon to go on a murderous quest to find Sebastian."

"If that's what you want, I won't tell a soul." Jace said and I smiled.

We got in the car and he drove back to my house. The entire way there Jace's hand was rested on my side. I couldn't get the smile off my face. Tonight was absolutely perfect and I couldn't wait for another date just like this one, and not because we spent hours making out, but because for the first time, I felt like I was complete, as cliché as that sounds. He parked in front of my house and turned towards me.

"I had a great time tonight." He said.

"So did I." I said.

"We'll have to do it again soon." Jace said and I simply nodded. He leaned over and pressed his lips to mine. "Goodnight Clary."

"Night Jace." I said. I got out of the car and made my way to the house. I opened the door and closed it before leaning on it and taking a deep breath before the light went on. "Holy shit Jon." I whisper yelled as my heart nearly pounded out of my chest.

"11:59. Herondale is cutting it close." Jon said.

"Seriously? Isn't this dad's job?" I asked.

"How was it?" He asked ignoring my question.

"Perfect." I simply said. Jon stood up and nodded.

"I'm glad you had a good time." Jon said before heading upstairs. Once I controlled myself I shut the light off and headed up to my room. I kept replaying the night in my head, and when I fell asleep I dreamed of Jace, and everything was right.

Time Jump – One and a Half Years Later – Prom

Clary POV:

"You seriously aren't going to prom Clary?" Izzy asked me.

"Jace can't go. He's over 21." I simply said.

"So? Go without a date. That's what we're doing." Maia said.

"I don't know. Dresses just aren't my thing, and heels certainly aren't. It seems like a waste of time." I admitted.

"It's our senior year Clary. We talked about prom all the time when we were younger." Izzy said.

"Because I thought that maybe we'd have dates that could go." I said.

"It's not our fault you're dating a guy that's 23." Maia said. I hated being so old in high school. 19 was pretty high to still be in high school but I was slow on the learning curve, and my parents thought holding me back a year in 1st grade would be beneficial. I wasn't complaining though, I wouldn't be such great friends with Izzy if I wasn't in her grade.

"Dances just aren't my thing." I said and on cue my bedroom door opened and reveled Jace and Jon.

"What are you ladies talking about?" Jon asked.

"I'm trying to convince Clary to come to prom." Izzy said.

"You don't want to go?" Jon asked.

"Dances aren't my thing." I said.

"Prom was a blast." Jace said.

"Maybe because you had a date." I painted out. "My first choice isn't allowed to go." I said and he smiled.

"I didn't have a date." Jace said. "I just went to have fun."

"But you took pictures with Aline." I said. "I remember being there because Kaelie wouldn't shut up the entire time."

"Worst mistake of my life asking her." Jon said with a laugh.

"I was doing her a favor." Jace said. "She wanted to go with Helen but you know how that school is really old school. So I went with her, and Helen went with Raphael. When we got to prom I didn't see her the rest of the night." Jace explained.

"Oh." I simply said. "I still don't want to go."

"You only get one senior prom Clare." Jon said. "Don't miss out on that."

"Ugh." I said and Izzy cheered.

"Perfect. We'll go dress shopping this weekend!" She said and skipped out of my room followed by Maia. Than Jon left which just left Jace and I.

"What's the real reason you don't want to go to prom?" Jace asked as he made his way over to me.

"I can't dance." I said honestly.

"I can teach you." Jace said.

"You can dance?" I asked quite surprised.

"I dabble." He said and I laughed. "And if you're going with Izzy and Maia, the dirty forms of dance are off the table." He said.

"Dirty forms of dace?" I said with a laugh. "You clearly haven't met Izzy."

"Plus, if I remember correctly, that summer you went to Turks and Caicos, you were dancing in those clubs." He said.

"I had alcohol in me. I can't show up to prom drunk." I said and he laughed.

"Just have fun Clare." He said and I nodded. "Wanna go grab some dinner?" He asked and I nodded. We got to Taki's and order our food.

"How was work today?" I asked as I took a huge sip of my iced tea.

"Stressful." He said. "You remember that investigation that was going on?" He asked and I nodded. "We found the mole, and my dad isn't happy."

"I can't imagine anyone would be with someone leaking company secrets to competitors." I said and he nodded.

"I'm lead on the interviews, and stuff since I minored in law at NYU, and people aren't being very forthcoming with information." He said.

"Beat it out of them." I said and he laughed.

"I'd like to keep my job Clary." He said and I shrugged.

"Just one suggestion." I said.

"I'll keep it in mind." He said and I nodded. "I just can't wait to take my vacation days."

"I can't either. I'm super excited." I said and he smiled. Jace had promised to take me on a road trip after my graduation and I was super excited to be spending two weeks with just him.

"You get your acceptance letter yet?" Jace asked and I shook my head.

"I don't think I'm getting in." I said honestly.

"Why would you say that?" He asked.

"Because I'm not that good." I said.

"You're one of the best artists I know Clary. Don't sell yourself short." He said.

"I just don't know where else I'd go if I didn't get in." I admitted.

"NYU would be stupid to not accept you." He said and I took a deep breath. "Have I told you how much I love you today?" He asked and I laughed.

"No." I said with a smile.

"I love you. More than anything. You're going to get in. I just know." He said. I leaned across the table and gave him a kiss.

"I love you too." I said and he smiled. Jace was right. I just had to be patient and everything would work out. I just knew it.

Time Jump – Two Weeks

Clary POV:

I got home from school and immediately checked the mail like I do every day. I figured I was just going to be disappointed like I have been since I applied but when I saw that big white envelope, with the NYU logo on it I practically fainted. I ran inside and sat on the couch just staring at it. I wasn't prepared either way. If I got in I might actually faint, and if I got denied, I might pass out from crying so much. I took a deep breath and started opening it. I pulled it out and closed my eyes, took another calming breath before reading.

Dear Clarissa Morgenstern,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted into the art program here at New York University…..

"Ahhhhhhhhhh!" I screamed. "Oh my god! Yes yes yes yes yes!" I started shouting thanking the lord that nobody was home. "Oh thank you sweet baby Jesus!"

I grabbed my keys and ran to my car. There was one person I wanted to share this with, and I couldn't wait until he was done work. Now I knew where his father's company was located, I've just never been inside the building before, but my adrenaline was so high from the letter that I didn't have time to be nervous. I parked my car and ran inside, before stopping and admiring the beautiful design of the building.

"Excuse me miss." I heard and I turned around. "How can I help you today?" She asked.

"I'm looking for Jace Herondale." I said. "I had a meeting and I think I'm running late." I said politely. I figured that if they had a receptionist, they aren't just going to let me up without a reason.

"Jace Herondale's office is on the 2nd floor." She said.

"Thank you much." I said as I walked to the elevator. I got in and pressed the 2 button. It felt like I was in that elevator forever, but once it stopped and the doors opened, I walked out and started looking around. I saw Stephan standing in the office space talking to someone, and I continued to look around, I was getting slightly discouraged, as I didn't see Jace anywhere.

"Clary?" I heard from behind me. I turned around and there he stood. "What are you doing here?"

"I got in!" I said with the biggest smile on my face.

"Oh my god!" He said as he scooped me into his arms. "I knew you would."

"The wait was killing me." I said and he laughed.

"Is that it?" He asked as he pointed to the envelope in my hand.

"Yea." I said as I handed it to him.

"What's it say?" He asked as he took the papers out of the envelope.

"I don't know. I read the first line and than started screaming with pure joy." I said and he laughed.

"Well, lets go to my office and read through it." He said as he took my hand in his. We walked through the office, and I could feel the people's eyes digging into my back. I knew people were skeptical of our relationship, but I didn't let that get to me much. We got into the office and he shut his door.

"Wow." I said as I looked around his office.

"What?" He asked.

"It's so clean." I said and he laughed.

"You know my OCD would never allow it to get dirty." He said as he made his way over to his chair. I walked over and he pulled me into his lap. I looked at the desk and I got the biggest smile on my face when I saw the picture of us.

"I can't believe you have that in your office." I said as I pointed to the picture.

"Why not?" He asked.

"I don't know. I guess it never occurred to me that you would decorate your office with pictures of us." I said and he smiled.

"I don't get to look at you for like 8 hours a day." He said. "That's all I get, and I absolutely love that picture of us." He said. I looked at it again and I smiled. It was taken at one of the Lightwood's Fourth of July parties. Jace had dragged me out into the middle of the yard and started dancing with me. I couldn't get the smile off my face, and the picture was absolutely perfect.

"You're very sweet." I said and he smiled. He was reading the rest of my acceptance level when he gasped. "What?"

"Holy shit." He said and now I was confused.

"What is it?" I asked.

"They want to give you a scholarship. I huge scholarship." He said.

"Really?" I asked as I looked at the letter.

"Really." He said.

"Holy shit." I said and he laughed.

"I'm so proud of you babe." He said and I smiled.

"Thank you." I said and he kissed my shoulder. "When are you done today?" I asked.

"I actually don't have much going on at the moment. I was thinking about asking my dad to let me leave early." He said.

"Really?" I asked.

"Really, plus we need to celebrate." He said and I laughed.

"Sounds good." I said. I stood up and Jace followed as we walked out of his office and over to his father.

"Hey dad." Jace said and Stephan turned around.

"Clary, what a surprise." He said and I smiled.

"I don't have anything else going on today, and I was wondering if I could take the rest of the day off." Jace said.

"Uh, sure. Will you be home for dinner?" Stephan asked.

"No. I'm going to take Clary out. She just got her acceptance letter from NYU." Jace said proudly.

"Congratulations." Stephan said.

"Thanks." I said.

"I'll be home later." Jace said and Stephan nodded and went back to talking to people. Jace and I made our way outside and he walked me to my car. "Meet you at your place?"

"Sounds good." I said. He gave me a sweet kiss and I got in my car and headed home. I finally felt secure in my future, and I couldn't wait to experience it and see where it takes me.

Time Jump – One Month Later

Jace POV:

I was making my way to the Morgenstern house, but not to see Clary. I was going to see Valentine and Jon to ask for their permission to move in with Clary when she started to attend NYU. I felt like it was something we were both ready for. She was going to be in college, and I was thriving at my fathers company. It seemed right, and even if they don't say yes, I could wait because Clary was it for me.

I knocked on the door and Valentine answered and he seemed rather shocked that it was me, but than again I don't normally knock on the door. I just walk in, but today it felt wrong to just walk into the house when I wanted to ask them if I could move into a house with his daughter.

"Jace, you knocked." He said and I laughed.

"I thought it was appropriate." I said as I walked into the house.

"Clary is still in school. What brings you here?" He asked as we sat on the couch.

"I was actually hoping to talk to you and Jon." I said.

"Of course." Valentine said. "Jon! Get in here!" He yelled.

"Coming!" I heard Jon yelled and than I heard the footsteps coming down the stairs. "Jace, what brings you here man?" Jon asked.

"He wants to talk to us." Valentine said.

"Oh no, you aren't here to ask for my sisters hand in marriage are you?" He asked and my eyes widened.

"What? No." I said frantically.

"What? Is she not good enough to marry?" Jon asked seeming annoyed.

"I never said that. You're putting words into my mouth." I said defensively. "Clary is still in high school. Don't you think that's a little young to be getting married?" I said and Jon seemed to loosen up.

"Than what could you possibly be here to ask?" Jon asked.

"It does involve Clary." I said. "As you know we've been together for a couple years now and I don't plan on ever letting her go." I explained. "She's going to NYU next year, and as much fun as Jon and I had living on campus and making a bunch of friends in the dorms, I know Clary is pretty shy when it comes to meeting new people, and I never want to her to be uncomfortable…." I trailed off.

"Just get to the point Jace." Jon said.

"I was wondering if you would be okay with Clary and I moving in together." I said and they both just sat there. Looking at me. I've never been more nervous in my life.

"Like you want to buy a house?" Valentine asked.

"I was thinking more of an apartment. Somewhere in between here and NYU." I explained.

"You're serious?" Jon asked.

"Completely." I said. "Clary means everything to me. There isn't another person on this planet that I want to spend the rest of my life with, and yes marriage is on my mind, but not until Clary is finished with college." I said. "I think this is the next step on our relationship, but I wasn't going to bring it up and ask her, or even start looking for places until I knew you two were okay with it." I explained and they both nodded but stayed silent. "I was kinda looking for a verbal answer." I said and they both laughed.

"You think you're ready to be with Clary day and night?" Valentine asked. "You're exposed to everything when you start living with a person. You can't just go home when you get in an argument or don't like what the other person is doing. Not saying you're stuck, but you have to learn to cohabitate, and sometimes that takes years."

"There isn't anything I want more than to come home after work and Clary be there." I said. "I don't care how much we argue, or disagree, because I know that's going to happen. I mean, her messiness alone is enough to make me want to rip my hair out, but I wouldn't want her any other way." I explained and they laughed. "Yea we have a lot to learn about each other still, and it won't be an easy road by a long shot, but I'm ready for it all. The good, the bad, the laughs, the tears, the joy and the fights."

"You seem to have thought about this a lot." Valentine said.

"I have." I said honestly. "I'll be 24 next year. I think its time that I moved out of my parents house." I said and they nodded. "And I'm ready to start the next chapter of my life with Clary."

"That better not mean kids." Jon said and my eyes widened again.

"Kids?" I reiterated. "I'm not ready for kids."

"That's very reassuring to hear." Valentine said.

"Listen, Clary is in some ways still a kid." I said. "She's mature for her age, and I'm sure that she will be an amazing mother one day, but not until the distant future. I mean, I want her to graduate college first. I don't think kids is anywhere on either of our minds right now, and won't be for years."

"I knew my baby girl would grow up, but I didn't think it would be so soon." Valentine said.

"I promise to protect her with my life." I tried to reassure him. "I will make sure she knows how much she is loved, and respected, and worthy of everything I know she is." I said. "But I'll respect your decision either way." I told them.

"I know you'll protect her." Jon said. "You've been doing it since we were 10 years old." He said and I smiled. "If she isn't living here, I wouldn't want her living with anyone else but you." Jon said and I smiled even bigger. "You have my permission."

"Thank you Jon. It means a lot." I said and he nodded.

"I expect you to come home every Sunday for dinner." Valentine said. "I knew college was going to be hard. I've never been good at letting go, but knowing that she's growing up and living with her boyfriend is an entirely new step that I wasn't expecting." He explained. "But I know you. I've watched you grow up, and I know how you treat my girl, and I couldn't picture anyone treating her better."

"We will be here every Sunday." I said and he smiled.

"You have my permission." Valentine finally said.

"Thank you. So much." I said. "Now I just have to ask her." I laughed and they smiled.

"When are you going to do it?" Jon asked.

"I was planning on doing it tonight." I said and they nodded.

"Well, good luck." Jon said.

"Thanks." I said as I stood up.

"Thank you both for this." I said. "I should head home."

"Take care of her Jace." Valentine said.

"She has to say yes first." I said and they laughed.

"She will." They said in unison and I nodded. I walked out of the house and got in my car and took a deep breath. Step one was finished, now for step two, the most nerve wracking part, asking Clary.

Time Jump – Later That Night

Clary POV:

Jace was taking me out to dinner tonight, and he said he had something to ask me, but I wasn't sure what it would be about, so I was incredibly nervous. I heard the door open downstairs and looked at myself one more time in the mirror, and was satisfied with my look. I walked down the stairs and there stood Jace and Jon talking about something. The stairs creaked and they both looked at me, and Jace smiled.

"You look beautiful." He said and I blushed.

"Thank you." I said and he smiled.

"Midnight young lady." Jon said and I rolled my eyes.

"I don't have a curfew anymore dumbass." I said and Jace laughed.

"Since when?" Jon asked.

"Since dad said I was old enough to make my own decisions." I said proudly and he rolled his eyes.

"Just make sure you're home before sunrise." He said.

"I have work tomorrow Jon." Jace said. "I will not keep her out all hours of the night." He said and Jon nodded. "You ready?" He asked and I nodded. He took my hand in his and lead me out to his car.

We got in and headed towards whatever destination that Jace chose. It was rather nice outside, so I wasn't sure if it was going to be indoors or outdoors, but it didn't matter as long as Jace and I were together. He pulled up to the park that he took me to on our first date, and the nostalgia was real. He pulled out a picnic basket and I couldn't help but smile. We made our way over to roughly the same spot and he got everything ready before we took a seat.

"How romantic of you to recreate our first date." I said and he smiled.

"I thought it was appropriate." He said.

"For what?" I asked curious about what he wanted to talk about.

"I want to ask you something." He said and my mind started racing about all the possibilities.

"Okay." I simply said.

"We've been together for a couple years now, and I feel like with you going to college in the fall, and me doing so well at my fathers company that it was time for us to take the next step in our relationship." He said and my eyes widened. Was he really going to ask me to marry him? "I see that fear in your eyes." He said and I looked at him, trying to show him that I wasn't afraid, but shocked. "I'm not asking you to marry you." He said and I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding and he laughed. "We are far too young for that at this point." He said and I nodded. "What I wanted to ask you was, how would you like to move in together?" He asked and my eyes widened.

"You want us to buy a house?" I asked and he smiled.

"Your father said the same thing." He said. " I was thinking more of an apartment to start out."

"You're serious?" I asked.

"Absolutely." He said. "There isn't anything I want more than to come home to you after a long day at work. I want to fall asleep and wake up with you every day." He said and my eyes started to well with tears. "I talked to Jon and your dad and they both gave me their permission." He explained. "Now it's all up to you."

"You really want this? Me, forever?" I asked and he smiled.

"I want you forever Clarissa Morgenstern." He said and I couldn't help but smile.

"In that case, I would love to move in with you." I said and he pulled me into him.

"I love you." He said.

"I love you too." I said before I pressed my lips to him. "Can we start looking soon?" I asked excitedly.

"Whenever you want." He said. "I figured we'd get something in between my office, and NYU." He explained.

"Sounds perfect." I said.

"No. Spending my life with you sounds perfect." He said and I blushed.

"Aren't you glad you don't see me as a sister anymore?" I teased and he smiled.

"Most definitely." He said before he captured my lips with his. Everything I've ever wanted was coming true. I was in a happy and healthy relationship with a man that I've always wanted to be with, but never thought I could. I was going to my dream school to study my passion, and we were going to be moving in together and starting our lives together. I couldn't have pictured my future any better than its mapped out to be, and I couldn't wait to explore it with Jace.

Authors Note:

So, someone requested one where Jace is Jon's best friend, and that he was super protective over Clary, and I just felt like I've read so many of those, and i wanted to give it my own twist, and I really hope you like it and that i fulfilled your request. I think this is a really sweet one shot, and I'm pretty proud of it! Let me know what you think and leave a review! :)

Also, I just want to let you know that when Clary is talking about her having sex with Sebastian, I do not think it isn't considered rape. Just because things are getting heated, and you are well on your way to having sex, if there wasn't a clear yes or no, it's still wrong and shouldn't be taken lightly! Rape is wrong, and the fact that we still have to say that in this day and age is disgusting, but necessary.