Ninety Fifth One Shot:
Second Chances
Clary POV:
My life didn't turn out the way that I always imagined it was going to be. I always thought that I would get married, start a family, finish college, and get my dream job. But getting pregnant at 17 doesn't leave a lot of room to achieve all of that. Don't get me wrong, I love my boys. They are my entire world, and they are truly my strength and I wouldn't be where I am today. I'd probably still be in that toxic relationship, and I will forever be indebted to my boys for giving me the strength to leave.
Flashback:
I was sitting in the living room reading a book when I heard the front door open. The boys were back from baseball practice. They put their bags down and stood in front of me like they really wanted to talk to me. I set my book down and gestured for them to tell me whatever was on their minds. They look at each other and than back at me.
"I think we need to move." Isaac said first.
"Why?" I asked. "Are you not happy with your school?"
"No." Oliver chimed in. "We love our school."
"So what's the problem?" I asked.
"You need to leave dad." Isaac said, and I had to admit, that wasn't what I was expecting.
"Why?" I asked.
"We know he hits you." Oliver said and I flinched. "We see the bruises, and we know how much of a temper he has. You're so much better than that."
"Boys." I said as I gestured for them to sit in front of me and they did. I grabbed one of each other their hands and sighed. "What your father does to me isn't right. I will never condone his behavior, but you two need a stable home. You need that security."
"No we don't." Isaac said. "We can survive together. We can make it work." He said. "You deserve so much more than him mom.
"We don't care if we have to stop playing sports, and help more, and start working when we turn 16." Oliver said. "We will sacrifice all of that for you. For your happiness, and your safety mom." He said and I started to cry.
"We love you mom. You've been playing mom and dad since we were born. Dad is never home, and barely even acknowledges us. You come to every game, and every school event. Everyone thinks you're a single mom, that's how little dad comes around." Isaac said. "We love you mom. More than anything, and we will be okay without him."
"You two are sure?" I asked and the both nodded. "Okay, I'll start looking for apartments for us tomorrow." I said and the stood up, and kissed my cheek. "I love you boys."
"We love you too mom." Oliver and Isaac said at the same time before leaving the living room. For the first time in a long time, I felt like I could do this. I could leave him, and that was empowering.
End Of Flashback:
That was almost 3 years ago, and Oliver and Isaac were right. We were completely okay without Sebastian. When I told him the boys and I were leaving, he laughed. He told me that he wouldn't be surprised if we ended up on the streets, and that the boys came crawling back to him because of how poor we were. We packed up out stuff, and left, and we've been thriving ever since.
Oliver and Isaac kept true to their word and started working when they turned 16. With three incomes we were doing perfectly fine. Throughout the course of the boys life I had gotten my college degree online, and when I put myself out there, I got a great job at an art gallery and I've been loving working there.
The boys were approaching their 17th birthday, and although they don't really want to do anything for it, I was still going to make it special. Having them young taught me a lot, and than them giving me the strength to walk away from a man that wasn't a good person was something that I never thought I'd have the strength to do. It was a Saturday afternoon, and I was sitting in the living room working on a sketch that I've been struggling with recently when I heard the boys coming down the stars.
"Hey mom." Isaac said as they took a seat around me.
"What can I help you with boys?" I asked.
"We were thinking, and we're almost out of high school, and you've been living the single life for almost 3 years, and we thought it was time that you started dating again." Oliver said and my jaw dropped.
"Really?" I asked and they both nodded. "Why is that?"
"Because we want you to be happy." Isaac said.
"I am happy." I said firmly. "Plus dating was never a strong suit for me when I was a teenager, and I doubt it'll be any different at 34."
"Mom, you'll never know unless you put yourself out there." Oliver said to me.
"I have my two favorite boys already, why do I need a man?" I questioned and they laughed.
"Because as much as we love you, and you love us. You deserve to have someone fall in love with you, and you deserve to fall in love." Isaac said. "Dad was a dick, excuse my language, but he didn't love you, and he didn't seem to really care much for us either. You deserve flowers, and romantic gestures, and all that shit." He said. "Again sorry." He said and I laughed.
"And god damn it mom, you deserve a wedding. The wedding you always wanted but dad never wanted to give you." Oliver chimed in.
"When did you two get so wise?" I asked and Isaac handed me the computer.
"We get it from our mom." Isaac said and I could help but smile.
"Okay, I'll make a profile and see what happens." I said and they nodded.
"But they have to meet us before your first date." Oliver said. "We need to size him up."
"I trust your judgment way more than I trust mine." I said honestly and they nodded. "Go play outside or something while I do this, than go get us a pizza." I said and they both laughed. The each kissed my cheek and ran outside acting like the boys they were.
I sat there for almost an hour getting my profile ready, and once I was done I actually felt really good about it. This was new for me. I was with Sebastian since high school, and my entire focus was on the boys after they were born. I assumed I'd be with Sebastian for the rest of my life so I never even thought about dating.
"Pizza is here!" I heard as I closed the laptop. I looked back and Oliver had a large pizza in his hands.
"Good. I'm starving." I said as I got up.
"How's the profile looking?" Isaac asked.
"I actually feel pretty good about it. Now all I have to do is wait for a match." I said and they nodded. As much as I was now excited about this whole dating thing, if it didn't work out, I always had Oliver and Isaac there for me, and if that's how my life turned out. I would be a happy mom.
Time Jump – Two Weeks Later
Clary POV:
I got my first match today, and I was pretty nervous. His profile wasn't too specific, so it kinda made me a little weary of him, but I tried not to judge a book by it's cover, and get to know the person without any bias. I prided myself on my ability to not make preconceived notions of people, I was pretty good at it, so I had an open mind tonight.
"Mom, your date's here." I heard Isaac yelled and I started making my way downstairs. He told me that he wanted to take me to his favorite restaurant, so I was wearing nice enough clothing. When I rounded the corner and there he stood.
"Hey. You must be George." I said and he nodded.
"And you're Clarissa." He said and I just nodded. "We should head out, our reservation is soon."
"Sounds good." I said. "I'll be back later boys." I said and they nodded. "Love you."
"Love you too mom." They said and George and I made our way outside.
We got to the restaurant and it was a lovely place. The atmosphere was nice, and it wasn't super romantic, but it wasn't causal. It was actually really nice and casual and comfortable, and that gave me some hope that this date wouldn't be so bad.
Time Jump – Two Hours Later
Clary POV:
Wrong. I was so incredibly wrong. This date was worse than anything I could possibly imagine. The conversation started out normally, but than it took a weird turn when I asked him about his hobbies, and he's been talking about taxidermy the rest of the night. I was horrified, and slightly disturbed at how much joy he got out of stuffing dead animals.
"That's the story of my first dog Tolly." He said. "She was the reason that I got into taxidermy. She's still in my bedroom as a matter of fact." He said and I don't know why he thought that would impress me.
"Oh." I said and he nodded. I literally couldn't think of anything else to say.
"What are your hobbies?" He asked.
"I like to draw." I said. "Sketching is pretty much the only thing that completely relaxes me." I said and he nodded.
"Maybe one day you can come over and sketch Tolly." He suggested and I tried my best to control my reactions.
"It's getting pretty late." I said trying to get him to take me home.
"Great Scott you're right." He said and that just killed this date even more. He paid for our dinner and he drove me home. He walked me to my door, and I had to admit, he was a nice guy, but we just didn't click. "I know what you're thinking." He said when we reached the door. "This isn't going to work."
"You don't feel anything either?" I asked and he laughed.
"Honestly, I felt like I was catching up with my long lost sister or something." He said and I laughed.
"No hard feelings." I said and he nodded. "I hope you find someone who is every bit as enthused as you are about pretty much everything in your life." I said and he laughed.
"Goodnight Clarissa." He said before walking away. I walked into the house to find Oliver and Isaac in the living room watching TV.
"How did it go?" Oliver asked.
"Horrible." I said with a laugh. "There will not be a second date."
"I'm sorry mom." Isaac said.
"Not everyone can be a winner. I wasn't expecting to find my prince charming on the first match I got on this website, but after that guy, I think I'm going to just lay low for a few weeks. Maybe see if the matches pile up and than I can have my own choice." I explained.
"Sounds like a plan mom." Oliver said.
"It was a long night, so I'm going to head to bed." I said and they nodded. "Don't stay up too late boys."
"We won't mom." They said in unison, and at first it always kinda freaked me out at how they knew exactly what each other was going to say but I've gotten used to it.
I got ready for bed and crawled under my covers. The one thing I do miss about having someone in my life was the warmth that they brought to the bed at night. I didn't need it to survive, but that didn't mean I didn't miss it every now and than.
Time Jump – One Month Later
Jace POV:
Life can be incredibly cruel sometimes. Which sucks because it makes the good moments get completely washed over in some situations. My life was going so well. I married my high school sweetheart when we were both 21 years old, and by the time I was 22 she was pregnant with our son. Everything seemed to be going incredibly well. We were happy, and in love and blessed with out lives. But all good things but come to an end.
When Owen, my son, was 10, Naomi was killed in a car accident. It was the worst news I've ever received, and it devastated Owen and I. she was everything to both of us, and knowing that she was no longer with us, was something that took us a long time to come to terms with.
But last year Owen told me that it was time that I start focusing on myself. He was nearly 16, and now was the time to get back out there. So I created a profile online and decided to try it out. It was different than what I normally did, and if I didn't like it I could always cancel the subscription. It wasn't the greatest thing in the world, but I guess I was holding out hope that a match would come around that would actually spark my interest, and that's why after so many bad dates, I haven't canceled it yet.
I decided to check my online profile to see if I've been matched with anyone in the last couple weeks. The last match that I got was a nightmare. She was 24 years old, and incredibly ditzy. I mean, I am 38 years old with a 15 year old kid, I can't be dating someone who didn't understand that he always came first in my life. I was a father first and foremost, and the person who I decided to start a relationship with had to understand that.
Since I haven't checked it for some time, I had a lot of messages, and matches. I was scrolling through and declining a bunch of them when something caught my eye. I clicked on her profile and started to read through it.
Name: Clarissa Fray
Age: 34
Job: I work as a curator at an art gallery in the city.
Relationship Status: Single.
Hobbies: Love art, and am totally down to try something new. Also apart from my full time job, I'm a full time mom.
A Fun Fact About Yourself: I have twin boys. That is probably the most interesting thing about myself.
I couldn't help but laugh at her fun fact. There was something about these few details about her that made me want to know her more. It was the first match that I had that I actually felt good about, so I decided to send her a message, and see where it went.
Clary POV:
I was a little bored at work today, so I decided to check my profile. Since my terrible date with the taxidermy enthusiast, I've just been focusing on work and the boys. I knew they wanted me to put myself out there, and everything, but sometimes that didn't always work. I was clicking through the potential matches when a message popped up.
From Jonathan Herondale:
~Hey, so I was looking through some of my matches and your profile caught my eye. As you can see my name is Jonathan, but I prefer to be called Jace. How are you doing today?~
I couldn't help but smile at the message. Before I answered his message I decided that I was going to take a look at his profile and see if it was even worth responding too.
Name: Jonathan Herondale
Age: 38
Job: I am a personal trainer at a gym
Relationship Status: Widowed
Hobbies: I love playing the piano, and trying new things. My son and I are pretty adventurous so we love trying anything different and unique.
A Fun Fact About Yourself: You wouldn't believe it even if I told you.
I couldn't stop the laugh that escaped my lips. It was refreshing to read a profile that wasn't so serious. I could tell this guy had a sense of humor and a great personality simply from the little things I read about him, plus he was insanely attractive. I was intrigued by this profile, so I decided to answer his message.
To Jonathan Herondale:
~Hey Jace, as you can also read my name is Clarissa, but I prefer to be called Clary. I'm doing well today. A little bored at work, but not everyday can be riveting. How are you doing?~
I was nervous about his reply. I mean would he even reply in the first place? I think he would since he was the one who messaged me first. I minimized my profile to continue doing work and trying not to overthink it too much when I heard a ding come from my computer. Like a teenager, I instantly clicked it to read the message.
From Jonathan Herondale:
~I know what you mean. I have no clients today, so I'm just chillin in my office waiting for the day to end. Other than that I'm doing very well. And we already have something in common, I'd say that is a pretty good start.~
I smiled at the message and waited a couple minutes before responding. I didn't want it to look like I was desperate to talk to him. I was independent, and my one rule for myself was not to ever become so dependent on a man ever again.
To Jonathan Herondale:
~I guess it's a good thing out parents named us something we both dislike being called, other wise what ever would we talk about? Although I am curious, how does Jace come from Jonathan?~
This time I didn't minimize the screen because the minute I sent the message, it told me that he had seen it. That made me feel really good, although we did tell each other we were both bored and sitting in our offices, so being quick to respond wasn't bad.
From Jonathan Herondale:
~My full name is Jonathan Christopher Herondale, and when I was adopted my adoptive mom started calling me Jace as a nickname. It kinda stuck.~
There was a little more that I knew about him. But of course there were so many more questions that I couldn't wait to find out about him.
To Jonathan Herondale:
~Makes sense. So why not just go by Jace Herondale on here than? Why put Jonathan?~
He read it.
From Jonathan Herondale:
~I wanted to be honest. I'm at an age where there is no reason to keep things from others, especially tiny things like my real name. When I was a teenager I refused to acknowledge Jonathan as my name. I was really petty about it, and got pissed off when someone called me Jonathan. It's my name, and if I'm going to meet people, I want them to know the truth. Why did you put Clarissa instead of Clary?~
Touché my friend.
To Jonathan Herondale:
~The same reasons you just explained actually. Every time I introduce myself as Clary, they always ask me if it's short for anything, and than I have to explain, but if I introduce myself as Clarissa, and than say that I like to be called Clary, it cuts out an explanation.~
From Jonathan Herondale:
~I totally get what you mean, you aren't the first one to be confused as to how I got my nickname. So, as much as I like messaging you, I was wondering if you'd like to go out with me sometime.~
I read that message and my jaw dropped. We have been talking for 10 minutes and he's already asking me out. I couldn't believe it, but even I had to admit that it felt right.
To Jonathan Herondale:
~What did you have in mind?~
I was on this sight for this exact reason, so why not just take a chance.
From Jonathan Herondale:
~Well, I read in your profile that you're always up for new things. And since we live so close to the beach, I was wondering if maybe you'd like to go jet skiing with me. I've always wanted to go, but for some reason I never have. You in?~
I was a little terrified at his date suggestion. But he wasn't wrong. I was always up for trying new things, and I have never been jet skiing before, and it could potentially be a really fun date.
To Jonathan Herondale:
~I think that could be really fun. Just let me know when.~
From Jonathan Herondale:
~I don't work next weekend. How does Saturday sound?~
I checked my calendar to see if I was working and thankfully I wasn't.
To Jonathan Herondale:
~Saturday works for me.~
From Jonathan Herondale:
~I'm normally not this forward, but here is my number, 215 – 555 – 9874. Once I figure out everything, I'll text you.~
To Jonathan Herondale:
~Sounds like a plan.~
From Jonathan Herondale:
~I'd love to stay and talk, but I just got a new client, so I must go. Talk soon Clary.~
To Jonathan Herondale:
~Have a great rest of your day Jace.~
I put his number in his phone and simply sent my name letting him know it was me. He replied back with a smiley face emoji, and I couldn't help but smile. When it was the end of the day I went home happier than I have in some time, and the moment the boys saw me, they knew something was different.
"What happened at work today?" Oliver asked.
"A bunch of office work today." I said.
"So why are you smiling like a loon?" Isaac asked.
"Well, I decided to check my profile because I had nothing else to do, and I got a message from this guy, and we're going out this weekend." I told them.
"What are you two doing?" Oliver asked.
"He asked if I would like to go jet skiing with him." I said with a laugh.
"No fair, you never let us go jet skiing." Isaac said.
"Well, after I try it first, I might just change my mind." I said and they just laughed at my mom logic.
"Gotta love mom logic." Oliver said and I rolled my eyes.
"I'm gonna start dinner. Hope pasta works for you." I said as I made my way into the kitchen.
"Works for us." They answered in unison. I couldn't get the smile off my face as I cooked dinner. I felt optimistic about this date.
Time Jump – Date Night
Clary POV:
I was staring at myself in the mirror contemplating if I looked alright. Jace and I had been texting back and forth getting ready for our first date, and I was a nervous wreck. I put in my profile that I was always up for trying new things for a reason, and now I was going jet skiing. I guess part of me thought everyone would choose dinner for the first date, but not Jace.
"Mom. Your date is here!" I heard Oliver call. It was now or never. I walked downstairs and Jace was talking to Oliver and Isaac. He was even better looking than his picture, and a lot taller than I expected.
"Hey." I said and my boys turned around.
"Hey." He said back.
"Wow. You two are acting like you're in high school." Isaac said and I slapped him in the torso. "Jeez woman, you may be tiny but you're lethal." He joked and Jace laughed.
"I see you've met my sons." I said and he nodded.
"They are pretty intimidating when they want to be." He said and I laughed.
"Kids these days think they are unstoppable." I said and he laughed.
"My son is the same way. He thinks he's invincible." He said.
"What's your sons name?" Isaac asked.
"Owen." Jace replied.
"How old is he?" Oliver asked.
"He'll be 16 next month." Jace said. "You ready to go?" He asked.
"Yes. There is money in the kitchen for food boys. Don't you dare try to cook, and no parties!" I said and Jace laughed.
"Love you!" They called in unison and I smiled.
"Love you boys too!" I called out before closing the front door. "You laugh now, but this house would be burned to the ground if they tried to boil water." I said and he smiled.
"One thing my son is very good at is cooking, so I don't have to worry about that." He said.
"Lucky you." I said as he opened the car door. I got in and he followed.
"Are you as pumped for jet skiing as I am?" He asked as he started the car.
"I'm a little terrified, but it sounds fun, and people always look like they're having fun on them." I said and he laughed.
"Let's hope so." He said.
The rest of the car ride was spent having small talk. We talked about the little things we wanted to know about each other. Favorite color, favorite food, favorite movie, favorite animal. Stuff like that. It was easy to talk and laugh with Jace. So far this date was going well, and I was happy about that.
Time Jump – After Jet Skiing : Dinner
Jace POV:
Jet skiing had been awesome, and it seemed like Clary had a great time. After we were done we were both starving and decided to get some dinner at a near by restaurant. Nothing too fancy, it was actually super casual, and where a lot of the surfers ate, so it was the perfect setting just to talk and get to know each other.
"So, why did you choose online dating?" Clary asked after we ordered.
"When Owen was 10, my wife was killed a car accident." I said. "We were both devastated. I kinda threw myself into parenting to avoid the void I felt without her. But about a year ago Owen told me it was time to focus on me again." I said and she nodded. "What about you?"
"Kinda the same reason you did it." She said. "The twins father wasn't the nicest man around. But I tried to stay for the boys. They needed their father, or I thought they needed him. When they were 14 they gave me the strength to leave the toxic relationship." She said and I nodded. "A couple months ago they told me to get back out there and try again." I totally understood that. "The first couple matches weren't great."
"I know what you mean. I've never gone out on more than one date with the women I've been matched with." I laughed and so did she.
"So should I be prepared for the whole 'it was great meeting you, but this isn't working out?' Speech at the end of the night?" She asked with a smile and that in turn made me smile. She had a great personality.
"I think I'd like to take you out on a second date." I said honestly and she blushed.
"As long as I get to pick the activity." She said and I laughed.
"Deal." I said and our food was brought out.
We continued talking about random stuff and I felt like a teenager around her. She had a great laugh, and a beautiful smile, and a great sense of humor. This date turned out to be pretty amazing, and I was glad I took a chance to message her that day.
By the time I was walking her back to her house I was over the moon that we were going out again. This was the first date that I actually felt something with someone. She knew what it was like to be a parent. She loved her kids, and they came firsts. She was funny, and kind and beautiful. I haven't felt anything like this since Naomi died, and I didn't realize how much I missed this feeling.
"I had a great time tonight." I said when we reached the door.
"So did I." She said and I smiled. "I'll let you know when I come up with the next date extravaganza." She said and I laughed.
"I look forward too it." I said. We lingered for a little longer, and I was about to say something when the door opened, and there stood Oliver and Isaac. "That's my cue." I said and she laughed. "I look forward to hearing from you Clary."
"Me too." She said and her sons were just standing there staring.
"Night boys." I said.
"Goodnight Jace." They said in unison. I made my way back to the car and headed home.
When I got inside I expected Owen to be in bed, but he was chilling in the living room watching TV with Roxy sitting beside him. When he heard me he turned around and muted the TV.
"Was she another dud?" He asked and I laughed.
"Actually no." I said. "We are going to go out again."
"That's impressive." He said and I laughed. "I'm proud of you dad."
"Thanks man." I said and he smiled. "Now, get to bed. It's late."
"It's not even 11:30." He complained.
"And your 15 years old." I went back at him.
"Fine, I'll go upstairs, but I'm not going to sleep yet." He said as he turned off the TV. Roxy followed him to the stairs just like she always did.
"Goodnight Owen." I said and he smiled.
"Night dad." He said than he disappeared upstairs. I grabbed a glass of water and went to my room thinking about my night. I had an amazing time and I couldn't wait to do it again.
Time Jump – Three Months Later
Clary POV:
Jace and I have been seeing each other regularly since our first date, and tonight we were finally meeting each others kids, and introducing the kids. Oliver and Isaac have been begging me to meet Jace's son, and apparently Jace's son has been extremely curious about my boys, and since we have been enjoying each others company, we thought it was the right time.
We were meeting at a diner that was in between where we both lived. I was nervous because I really hoped that his son would like me. Jace talks so highly of him, and I know he's met my boys, and they like him, and it would really suck if Owen didn't like me. But I know it's going to be a little awkward in the beginning, and I was prepared for that.
"You ready mom?" I heard Isaac call from downstairs.
"Be right down!" I called back. I took one last look in the mirror and headed downstairs. I grabbed my keys and we all headed towards the car.
We got to the restaurant and Jace and Owen weren't there yet. We got a table that was able to fit two more people and we ordered our drinks and waited for them to arrive. Every time the bell rang I would glance at the door hoping that it was them.
"You gotta chill mom." Isaac said. "You are looking a little manic. And not in a good way." He said and I hit him in the head with my menu.
"Don't talk to me like that." I said and he laughed. "I can look manic if I want too."
"I'm just saying, it's not a good look on most women. Isn't that right Oliver?" Isaac said.
"What does he mean Oliver?" I asked.
"There is this girl at school who is like obsessed with me. And in a very unhealthy way." Oliver explained. "I tried to let her down easy, I told her that she was a great person but I was just interested in being her friend, but she wasn't having it."
"She gets this look in her eyes when she sees him mom." Isaac interrupted. "It's creepy."
"Well, I don't look like that." I said and they simply laughed. "I can ground you two. I'm still your mother." I said and they stopped laughing. "That's what I thought."
"Mind if we sit?" I heard and when I looked up there stood Jace. I guess I tuned out the bell when talking to the boys.
"Not at all." I said and they pulled the chairs out. "Glad you made it."
"We would have been here sooner, but Roxy decided to rip a pillow open, and I couldn't leave the room looking that messy." Jace explained.
"His OCD was at an all time high." Owen said with a laugh. "I'm Owen, it's nice to meet you." He said as he reached his hand out, and I took it.
"It's nice to meet you as well. I'm Clary, and these are my boys. Isaac and Oliver." I said and the boys nodded.
"How will I be able to tell you apart?" Owen asked and the boys laughed.
"Figure it out." Isaac said.
"Oliver is left handed." Jace said. "Isaac is right handed."
"Normally it takes people a couple years of knowing us to pick something like that up." Oliver said and Jace laughed.
"He's very perceptive." Owen said. "Trust me, I can't get away with anything." Everyone laughed and we ordered out food. "So, have you two ever switched places?" Owen asked when the waitress left.
"All the time." Isaac said proudly. "Mostly when we had a test in a subject the other one was better at."
"And you just let them do it?" Owen asked me.
"I didn't know they did it until I went to a parent teacher conference and was told that she didn't understand why Oliver was so good at test taking when his homework wasn't up to that level." I explained. "She gave me the test to look over, and I noticed that the writing wasn't smudged like it normally is when Oliver writes. But I can't stop them when they are at school. They are just hurting themselves in the end."
"Am I really ever going to need biology ever again?" Oliver asked.
"We'll find out eventually won't we?" I asked and the boys just laughed.
Dinner went by really well. Owen, Oliver and Isaac seemed to get along really well. It helped that they were close in age, and they were both sports guys. They all played baseball for their high schools, and it was a nice that they had that in common. Just hearing my sons talk about baseball again was nice in general. Since I had a pretty good job, the boys got to work part time, because they still didn't want to leave me to make all the money on my own, and I appreciated that a lot.
"We must do that again." Jace said as we walked out of the diner.
"Maybe we can all go to a baseball game together." Owen suggested. "The Dodgers are pretty good this year."
"Sounds great." Isaac said. "We haven't been to a game in like 2 years."
"Same here." Owen said.
"Well, we'll get right on that." Jace said and I laughed. "Owen, go to the car."
"Why?" Owen asked.
"Because I said so."
"I'd do it dude. They're going to get all lovey, and it's pretty sickening." Isaac said.
"You two, car, now." I said and they laughed and headed towards the car, and Owen saw Jace pull me into him, and decided to listen to Isaac's warning.
"Kids." Jace said and I couldn't help but laugh.
"But we couldn't live without them." I said and he smiled before pressing his lips to mine. I was lost in our own little happy bubble until a certain voice popped it and I went frigid.
"Clarissa." I heard and I froze. Jace sensed my shift and looked up at the voice. "Funny running into you here."
"What do you want Sebastian?" I asked and Jace immediately shifted me behind him.
"I was just out on a stroll with my girlfriend." He said but he was alone. "I thought I recognized the clown hair." He smirked and I hated that he was still so condescending.
"What the hell are you doing here?" I heard Oliver say and when Sebastian turned to look at them, he just laughed.
"I can't just come and talk to an old friend?" He questioned. Isaac and Oliver were immediately next to Jace completely blocking Sebastian's view of me. "Sons, is this any way to treat your father?" Sebastian asked.
"You've never cared about us daddy. Please forgive us for not being more enthused about your unexpected and unwanted visit." Isaac hissed.
"What's going on here?" Owen asked and I turned around.
"Nothing." I said. "He was just leaving, right Sebastian?" I said and he laughed.
"Right. My girlfriend is probably wondering where I've snuck off too." He said before turning around and disappearing into a shop.
"Man I hate that guy." Isaac said through gritted teeth.
"Come on boys, let's go home." I said and they nodded. "We'll talk later?" I asked Jace and he nodded. I gave him one more kiss before heading towards the car with Isaac and Oliver. Isaac took the keys away from me and I got in the passenger seat. The ride home was silent, and I just wanted to crawl into bed and sleep this feeling off.
Jace POV:
Owen and I watched Clary, Isaac and Oliver drive away and I sighed. First off, that dude was huge. We were roughly the same height, but he looked like he had taken steroids in his life at some point, although I wouldn't hesitate to deck him if he tried to hurt Clary.
"Who was that dad?" Owen finally asked.
"That was Isaac and Oliver's father." I said.
"So Clary's ex-husband." He said.
"Nope. They never got married." I said. "Apparently he didn't believe in it."
"What did he want?" He asked.
"I think he just wanted to scare her." I said. "According to Clary, she left him 4 years ago, and he never made any type of effort to contact them, or anything like that. I find it very strange, but according to all three of them, family just wasn't his style." I explained. "When he saw her I think he just wanted to see if he could still scare her and intimate her like he used too."
"Why did they split?" He asked.
"He used to hit her." I said and his jaw dropped. "Come on, lets get home." I said and he nodded. We got in the car and started heading home before Owen decided to talk again.
"You're serious about her aren't you?" He asked and I smiled.
"I really am." I said. "I know it's only been a couple months, but I feel like we've known each other forever, and we just connect really well."
"I'm happy for you dad." He said.
"Do you like her?" I asked, nervous for his response.
"She seems really cool." He said. "And you seem happy, and that's what really matters to me. You deserve happiness."
"So do you." I said to him. "I know she'll never be able to replace your mother." I said and I saw him sadden a little. "She was a special woman, and I loved her with all my heart. Always remember that."
"I know dad." He said. "But that doesn't mean you can't love someone else." He said and I laughed. I was happy that Owen was so open to me finding love again. A lot of kids get resentful when their parents start dating again, they feel like they are trying to replace the person we lost, but Owen understood how much I loved his mom, and he knows that I'm not trying to replace her, and that means a lot to me.
Time Jump – One Year Later
Clary POV:
"Do you think they'll freak?" I asked Jace as we were heading to the baseball field to watch Owen play. Isaac and Oliver were meeting us there as well.
"I think it will be shocking, but I don't think they're going to freak out." He said.
"I just don't want to ruin a good thing." I said.
"And we won't. Moving in together isn't a relationship ender, it might be a game changer, but that's expected." He said reassuring me. I simply nodded because I knew he was right, but that didn't make my nerves go away.
We got to the field and the teams were still warming up. Jace and I did everything we could to make it to every game for Owen, this was his senior year, and we wanted to show our support the best way we could, without embarrassing him that is.
"Mom." I heard and I turned around to see Isaac and Oliver but what I wasn't expecting was to see a girl with them.
"Hey boys." I said as they got closer. They each gave me a kiss on the cheek. "Who did you bring with you?" I asked.
"This is Milly, my girlfriend. Milly, this is my mom and her boyfriend Jace." Oliver said.
"It's wonderful to meet you Milly." I said and she smiled.
"You as well." She said.
"I normally pride myself in never asking this, but I have to know. What is Milly short for?" I asked and she laughed.
"Mildred." She said. "It's terrible, I absolutely hate my name." She said and I laughed.
"You're in great company than." Jace said. "We aren't too fond of our real names either."
"I think we'll get along just fine than." She said and I laughed.
They joined us on the bleachers and we waited for the game to start. Owen's school team was exceptionally good, and it was always incredibly fun to watch him play. You could tell ho passionate these kids were about the game.
When the game was over, we won by a landslide. Owen was gathering his things and we were all heading out to dinner so that Jace and I could tell them what was going on. It would affect Owen more than it would affect Isaac and Oliver, considering they are in college now, but they still would need a place to stay when they came home for breaks.
We got to the diner, and got a usual. Jace and I decided to just wait until we were almost finished to talk about our big news. The boys were all engaged in a conversation where Isaac and Owen were telling Milly embarrassing stories about Oliver, and he was blushing like crazy. I couldn't help but smile at that because it meant that he really liked Milly, and I was happy for him.
Naturally when we were all finished dinner, Isaac and Oliver had to get dessert. It was like dinner wasn't over without a cookie, or cake, or brownie. Wherever we went, dessert was a must, and I know they didn't pick up their sweet tooth from me, considering I really don't like dessert all that much.
"Boys, we wanted you all together today because we wanted to tell you something." Jace said and that got their attention.
"What's up?" Isaac asked.
"As you know, your mom and I have been together for a little over a year, and we wanted to take the next step in our relationship." Jace explained.
"You're getting married?" All three boys said at the same time. Now I expected it from Isaac and Oliver, but Owen was picking up on the twin telepathy, and it was freaky.
"Does it look like I have a ring on my finger?" I asked as I held up my left hand.
"And do you think I would ask her to marry me without getting your permission first?" Jace asked them. They all shook their heads. "Clary and I have decided to move in together."
"Really?" They all asked in unison again.
"Really." I said. "Are you three okay with that?" I asked.
"Do I have to switch schools?" Owen asked.
"Of course not." I said. "We've been talking about this for some time, and trying to figure out if I'd just move into your place, or if we'd buy a new place altogether, but the one requirement is that we stay in your school district." I said and he nodded.
"In that case, I think we should move." Owen said.
"Why is that?" I asked.
"Because I've lived in that house my entire life." Owen said. "You're uniting our families, and I don't think the house where I grew up in with my mom and dad is the best place to do that." He said and than I understood. "Don't get me wrong, I am totally on board with this whole moving in together. I think it's great, and your relationship is clearly getting more and more serious by the day, but I think we need to have our own house for that fresh start."
"I honestly didn't even take that into consideration." Jace said and it was true. He never mentioned that being a reason to move completely.
"Than I guess the next step is to find a place." I said.
"I have a suggestion." Owen said.
"What is it?" Jace asked.
"You know that house that's been abandoned for years?" Owen asked and Jace nodded, although I knew nothing of what he was talking about. "Well, I think it could be a nice fixer upper, and isn't Aunt Izzy like an interior designer? I bet she would love that project."
"How come Owen knows more about house hunting than you?" I asked Jace and he laughed.
"I guess I just never really thought about it because it's pretty big. When I was a kid I referred to it as the Institute." Jace said. "I guess I always forgot that it was a house."
"Call Aunt Izzy, and ask her to come out and check it out." Owen asked.
"She lives in New York Owen. And she's really busy, I mean I haven't seen her in years." Jace said.
"Simply asking won't kill you dad." Owen said and I laughed.
"I'll call her tomorrow than." Jace said and Owen just nodded.
All of my nerves were finally gone and I couldn't wait to start the new chapter of my life. I couldn't wait to move in with Jace and Owen, and having our relationship just grow even more. Of course moving in together will bring it's own trials and tribulations, but I was super excited to experience them all with Jace, Owen, Olive, and Isaac. It was going to be amazing I just knew it.
Time Jump – Three Years Later
Jace POV:
Life was perfect. Clary and I got married a year ago, and for the first time in a long time, I felt more complete than I ever have. It was weird because Clary was everything I never knew I needed, but now that I had her, I was never going to let her go. Of course there was still that void that was in me that would never fully go away, but things happen for a reason, and I had to keep believing that no matter what.
But onto the biggest news yet, Clary is pregnant. The day we found out, we were over the moon happy, and the day we found out the gender was even more shocking. The boys wanted to come with us to learn what their sibling was going to be and I can still see their faces in my mind every day, and I can't help but smile.
Flashback:
Clary, the boys, and I were waiting at the hospital for them to call us back. We were finding out the gender of our baby today and I was a nervous wreck. I don't know why, I've gone through this before, but for some reason it didn't prepare me for going through it for a second time.
"Clarissa Herondale?" I heard and the nurse was standing here. "The doctor will see you know." I helped Clary out of the chair and we made our way back to the room where we would wait to find out.
"This place is creepy." Oliver said and I laughed.
"It's a little clammy but what hospital isn't?" I said and they nodded.
"Clary, Jace, and company, it's great to see you again. Are we ready to find out the sex of the baby?" She asked.
"More than ready." I said and she nodded.
"Lift your shirt Clary." The doctor said and Clary nodded, laid back on the table and lifted her shirt. The doctor applied the gel and started looking. After a few moments she smiled. "Looks like you two are going to be the proud parents of a little girl."
"A girl?" Clary asked and the doctor nodded.
"I'll see you in a couple weeks." The doctor said before leaving the room.
"We need a plan of action boys." Isaac said and Clary and I turned towards them.
"Okay, we should start with dating. She isn't allowed to date until she's like 24." Owen said.
"I agree, and she isn't allowed to wear short skirts, or crop tops." Oliver chimed in.
"That's a good one." Owen said.
"And she isn't allowed to play sports either. We keep her in a bubble." Isaac said.
"Boys." Clary said and they all looked at her. "You will not restrict her in any way."
"But mom…." Isaac said.
"No buts." Clary said. "She is a girl yes, but she is allowed to play sports, she is allowed to date at a reasonable age, and she is allowed to wear whatever clothes she feels confident in." She explained.
"But mom, it's our job to protect her." Oliver said.
"Actually, that's my job." I said and they looked at me. "Look fellas, yes she is a girl, but you three and me will teach her how to defend herself, and show her how she is supposed to be treated. No guy in this world will ever take advantage of her, and she will also know that she is loved more than anything in this world. We will make sure she is always happy, and she will always feel worthy." I said. "It's okay to protect her, but it's not okay to restrict her."
"What he said." Clary said and I smiled as I helped her off the table. The boys nodded and we headed out of the hospital home. I couldn't believe I was having a little girl, but I was so excited.
End Of Flashback:
We were now currently in the hospital waiting for our princess to get here. The boys have been bugging us about names, but Clary and I knew what we were naming her, but we wanted to keep it a surprise. I walked back into the room with more ice chips for Clary. She was in pain, but she was handling it like a champ.
"Come on mom, why can't you just tell us the name?" I heard Isaac ask.
"Because it's going to be a surprise for the last damn time!" Clary shouted and all three boys held their hands up in a surrendering motion.
"That's my cue." Oliver said as he walked over to Clary. "I'll be back in about an hour. I'm picking Milly up from work."
"Of course baby." Clary said and he gave her a kiss on the cheek.
"Alright boys, why don't you go to the caf and get something to eat. You've been here for hours." I said and they nodded before walking out of the room, and than it was just Clary and I. "Hey baby, how are you feeling?" I asked as I made my way over to her side.
"I just want her to be here already." She whined and I handed her an ice chip, which she eagerly took.
"I know you do, and so do I, but she's a stubborn little one." I said and Clary laughed. "She'll be here soon." I reassured her and she nodded as I continued to feed her ice chips. I was just as anxious as Clary was to meet our daughter, but Clary was the one in pain so I knew she wanted her here faster.
Time Jump – Two Hours Later
Jace POV:
"Alright Clary, you're ready to push." The doctor said and suddenly everything became real.
"Thank god!" Clary said and I took her hand in mine.
"Next contraction, push." The doctor said and Clary nodded.
About 10 minutes later a contraction hit and Clary pushed with everything in her. Jace forgot what the miracle of birth looked like, and he was just as amazed as he was the first time. Clary pushed until her face was the color of her hair, and than I heard the cries. The doctor whisked our baby away, and I just looked at Clary.
"I love you." I said and she smiled.
"I love you too." She said and I pressed my lips to hers. A few moments later, the nurse came over with a pink bundle and handed her to Clary. "I can't believe she's ours."
"I can't believe I have a daughter." I said and Clary laughed.
"Wanna invite the boys in?" She asked and I pulled my phone out and texted them. A moment later the door opened and in walked Owen, Oliver, and Isaac.
"Is that her?" Isaac asked.
"This is her." Clary said. "Boys, I'd like you to meet your sister, Ivy Herondale." She said with a big smile.
"Ivy. It's cute." Oliver said.
"Why did you choose that name?" Owen asked.
"Well, we already have two kids with 'O' names, so we felt like it was time for another 'I' child." I explained and they laughed.
"Finally, I have a teammate." Isaac said and I laughed.
"Who wants to hold her?" I asked. The boys looked nervous, and I picked her up out of Clary's arms and walked over to Isaac. "I think it seems only fitting that her 'I' buddy gets the first hold." I said as I put her in his arms. She whimpered for a moment which seemed to freak Isaac out, but she soon calmed down and the smile wouldn't leave his face.
"She's so tiny." Isaac said.
"She was born 30 minutes ago." Clary said. "Of course she's tiny." They all laughed and I took a seat on the bed with Clary. She leaned into my arms and we watched the boys coo over their little sister. She was going to be spoiled, I knew that much.
Time Jump – Four Years Later
Clary POV:
It was Christmas and I was snuggled into Jace's chest. I didn't want to get out the warm bed. I just wanted to stay here in his arms for the rest of the day. I was drifting off into more sleep when I heard our door slam open.
"Mommy, daddy! It's Christmas! Get up!" I heard Ivy say as she jumped on the bed and woke Jace and I both up.
"Sweetheart, it's only 7 in the morning." Jace said in his groggy voice as he picked her up. "The boys aren't even awake yet." We always spent the holidays together no matter what. The boys would come the night before the holiday and than spend the night so that we could spend as much time together as possible. It was one tradition that we would never break.
"Yes they are! Ollie got up first, and Owen is making breakfast!" She said happily.
"What's Isaac doing?" I asked as I sat up.
"We ran out of eggs, so he went out to buy more! My job was to wake you guys up!" She said as she pulled at Jace's hands. "Come on daddy, I can't let the boys down!" She said and I smiled.
"Mommy and I will be down in a minute. Let us get changed first." Jace said and she nodded. Jace gave her a kiss and she hopped off the bed and ran out of our room.
"I forgot how excited kids get on Christmas." I said and Jace laughed.
"Owen was never that excited." Jace said. "Normally Naomi and I had to wake him up that morning for him to open presents." He said and I couldn't help but laugh.
"Oliver and Isaac loved this holiday, and would wake me up at 5 am." I said. "Christmas was over by 7, and than they were tired."
"Kids." Jace said and I laughed.
We got out of bed, put on our Christmas pajamas and headed downstairs. Owen was in the kitchen cooking, Oliver and Ivy were dancing around to Christmas music and in that moment Isaac came back with a carton of eggs. Jace and I took a seat at the breakfast bar and Owen handed us coffee before getting back to making breakfast. Owen asked Oliver and Isaac to set the table, and Ivy came over and Jace picked her up and sat her on his lap. She was singing her heart out to 'Baby All I Want For Christmas Is You' and Jace and I couldn't help but laugh.
"Breakfast is served!" We heard Owen call and we got up and made our way to the table. We all took out seats before Isaac and Oliver stood up.
"Before we start, us boys really wanted to say something." Isaac said.
"What's up?" I asked.
"Well, you guys have been together for nearly 8 years, and in all those 8 years I don't think Isaac and I have every really told you how much it means to us that you came into our lives." Oliver said as they looked at Jace. "She hid it well, but we knew after she left our father that she was a little lonely. She always tried to hide it behind a smile, but Isaac and I knew better."
"Yea, and we wanted her to find someone who was going to show her what love really was." Isaac said. "We just wanted to say thank you for coming into our lives, and showing us what a real father looks like, and for loving her unconditionally." Isaac said, and I started to cry. "And for giving us the best little sister anyone could ever ask for." He asked as he bopped Ivy on the nose and she giggled.
"It's my pleasure to love you mother." Jace said and he took my hand in his.
"I also want to thank Clary for coming into our lives." Owen said as he stood up and Oliver and Isaac sat down. "I always knew my dad was hiding his real feelings. We lost my mom so suddenly, and as much as we grieved together, he wasn't the same guy he was before the accident." Owen said. "But than he met you, and it was like something inside of him woke up. He was smiling more, and laughing, and he was back to his old self." He said and I smiled. "There was a period of time where I thought he was never going to find someone. He would come back from those dates more discouraged than the time before, and than you came along and gave him a piece of himself back." He said and I couldn't help it, this meant so much to me. "You have me two brothers, and the greatest little sister I've ever known." He said and Ivy giggled again. "So, this Christmas, the boys and I wanted to give you something that you both deserved."
The boys left the room, and I looked at Jace and he was equally as confused. A few moments later they came back with an envelope. Isaac handed it to me. I looked at Jace and he nodded, and I started to open it. I pulled out the contents, and I noticed they were plane tickets. I started reading them closer and my eyes nearly popped out of my head.
"You're kidding?" I asked and they laughed.
"Nope." They all said in unison. "You two didn't get a chance to go on a honeymoon. Having three kids in college was pretty much sucking you dry. So this Christmas we are giving you the honeymoon that you never got." Isaac explained.
"Oliver got off work, and is going to stay here with Ivy while you're away, and the place is all inclusive. So you can go, and just enjoy the time without having to worry about anything." Owen said.
"Where are we going?" Jace asked.
"We're going to the Bahamas." I said. "You guys are the best."
"We know how much you guys like the beach, and there is also a great art gallery there that I thought you'd love." Oliver said. "You guys deserve to have this vacation."
"You three are the sweetest." I said as I got up and hugged them all. "Thank you."
"Anything for you mom." Isaac said. Jace came over and hugged them all as well.
"How long are we staying?" Jace asked.
"8 day." I said and he nodded. "Best Christmas ever." I said and everyone laughed.
We retook our seats and started eating. Everyone was in such a good mood, and I couldn't even begin to describe how amazing my life was. I never thought I would ever get to have this. But here I am, listening to my boys talking and my little girl laughing and my amazing husband providing and loving me and truly making me feel like the most important person on the planet. I always dreamed my life would be like this one day, and now that I'm actually living it, seemed so surreal. The greatest thing I've ever done was creating that profile, and accepting that message from Jace. I don't know where I would be if I didn't.
"Mommy, you're doing that weird staring thing." I heard Ivy said and I looked at her. The beautiful strawberry blonde curly haired little girl, with her bright golden eyes looking at me.
"I'm sorry baby. What were you saying?" I asked.
"I was saying that Santa got us a lot of gifts this year! Can we go open them now?" She asked and I smiled.
"Why don't you go out into the living room and have Ollie put all of your gifts together." I said and she jumped out of her seat.
"Come on Ollie!" She cheered as she grabbed his hand and dragged him into the living room. The other boys followed and I looked at Jace who was already smiling at me.
"Merry Christmas babe." I said and he pressed his lips to mine.
"Merry Christmas love." He said and I smiled. Yup, like was pretty damn perfect.
Authors Note:
Someone suggested that Clary and Jace are older, and both have kids, and than meet. So this was my take on that suggestion! Let me know what you think! I find this one shot absolutely adorable, and I'm not just saying hat because I wrote it, I think the suggestion was great, and I really hope that I lived up to whoever's expectations and delivered a one shot that you wanted to read! Let me know what you think and leave a review! :)
Okay, here are the description of what the kids look like:
Oliver - Brown hair, green eyes. 6 feet tall. (17 at beginning of story)
Isaac - Brown hair, green eyes. 6 feet tall. (17 at beginning of story)
Owen - Dirty blonde hair, gold eyes. 6"1' (15 at beginning of story)
Ivy - Strawberry blonde hair, curly, gold eyes.
Also, when writing this story I realized that you would probably think that Sebastian would have wanted to name one of the twins after himself. Give him a Sebastian Verlac Jr. But in order for that to happen, Clary had an ultimatum - if he wanted one of them to be named after him, they had to get married. Sebastian doesn't believe in marriage, so naturally Clary got to name the kids, because Sebastian didn't really care at that point since they weren't going to be named after him. Sebastian also never really wanted kids, but kept Clary around because of the power he had over her (the abuse) so when she eventually left him, he wasn't too worried about it since he never really cared anyway. Oliver and Isaac's last name is Fray, and later in life they actually wanted to change it to Herondale because Jace was more of a father to them than Sebastian was. That's all I really wanted to say about that, I knew it was a question for me, and I was the one who wrote the story!
And as for Milly, she got a job on the other side of the country, so they decided to split, and not have to worry about long distance. Oliver was hurt, but soon that was healed.
One more thing, they live in California. Okay, that's really all I have! Hope you enjoyed it! :)
