One Hundred and Six Story:
YouTubers
Clary POV:
I've been putting up art tutorials on YouTube since my freshman year in college. It was part of my one class, and I just loved doing it. Especially when people would comment on how I helped them. It was one of the many things that made me want to become a teacher. I did a post every week, and just hearing the feed back on my designs, and all the positivity kept me going. I even made my students watch them for homework assignments and than have them recreate it in class for a quiz the next day. It was a really beneficial way to teach (it also helped me get more views in YouTube, so really it was a win/win for everyone).
I just got finished posting a video on how to draw mandalas, and I was heading out to meet my brother and his fiancé for lunch. I was excited that they were getting married. They've been together since freshman year in college, and it was about time that they have this wedding they've been talking about.
When I got to the restaurant, I found them immediately, but instead of happy faces, Jon looked stressed, and Seelie looked like someone just killed her puppy. I took a seat and they just looked at me, and sighed. Something was wrong.
"What's going on?" I asked.
"Our videographer bailed on us. He got asked to shoot some crazy thing half way across the world, and he took it, and now we're freaking out." Jon explained. "Do you know how hard it was to get him, and with the wedding only a couple months away, everyone we've called is already booked or isn't going to be around." He said and Seelie started to cry. "Don't cry baby, we'll figure this out." Jon said reassuringly but even I didn't believe him.
"How about I take care of the videographer?" I said and they looked at me. "You two look like you haven't slept in days." I pointed out. "Focus on everything that's going right, and I'll worry about the videographer."
"You'd do that for us?" Seelie asked.
"Of course." I said. "The guys a dick for bailing, and you don't need to be freaking out about it while trying to get everything else organized. Leave me to figure this problem out." I explained.
"Thank you so much Clary." Seelie said as she got up and hugged me.
"What is family for?" I asked and Jon smiled, and he looked like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. "Now, for the rest of lunch I don't want to talk about wedding tragedies. Let's enjoy this meal, cause I'm starving." I said and they laughed and agreed. I knew this was stressful for them, but I hope that I could do this simple thing for them, and make it work out.
Time Jump – Later That Night
Clary POV:
I underestimated how difficult this would be, but I promised my brother I would get a videographer for him, and I would, but that didn't mean I wasn't going to be stumped. Looking online was getting me nowhere because they were all ridiculously priced.
A song popped into my head by a local band, and no matter how many times I sang it to myself it wouldn't leave. So I went on YouTube and looked it up. The music video popped up so I clicked on it and just decided to watch.
Whoever did this video work was amazing. I looked at the bio and of course it was JCHVideos. I didn't know how this guy wasn't working on this full time. He was amazing. He was an armature trying to get his way into the directing world of music videos or movies. He was based out of New York and whenever I found a video by him, I always knew it would be good.
Than an idea clicked. I don't know how different shooting a wedding video is from a music video but he must have those types of skills up his sleeve. Maybe if I reached out, he could help me.
There was link under the video directing me to his site, which provided a pop up box to start a conversation with him. I created my name and started typing to him.
Dear JCHVideos,
I'm not sure if you do this kind of stuff, by my brother is getting married in a couple months, and our videographer bailed. I love your work and I was wondering if you'd be interested in videoing his wedding. Let me know what you think.
Sincerely,
~ArtNerd
I closed my computer because I didn't want to seem like a freak who was just waiting around for an answer. But that didn't stop me from sitting anxiously in the chair staring at the closed computer.
I decided to take a shower and get my mind off of the message. I told my brother that I had a handle on this small crisis, and I didn't want to fail him. I got in the shower and just let the hot water wash all my stress way. I mean, I wasn't even getting married and I was stressed.
When I got out of the shower, and changed, I decided to check the messages and just see if he got back to me. It had been a whole hour since I sent it, so who knows. I'm a night owl, but that doesn't necessarily mean he is. I opened up the computer and typed my password in. When the screen popped up, I had a message and I squealed.
Dear ArtNerd,
I've actually done a few wedding before, and I'd love to help you out, but I have a proposition for you. My mother was a wonderful artist, but lately she hasn't been able to create any. I would love to give her something for her birthday, but I'm lousy at art. I looked at a few of your tutorials, and you're amazing. Would you mind helping me out as well?
Sincerely,
~JCHVideos
I read that and my heart broke for his mother. I would be literally nothing without art, and I can't imagine having to give it up. And his proposition was reasonable. Some people can't learn off tutorials, and I get that.
Dear JCHVideos,
I'd love to help you with a birthday gift for your mom. I'm a teacher so my weekdays are pretty full. Are you free on weekends?
~ArtNerd
I saw him typing back immediately. So he was a night owl. That was good to know.
Dear ArtNerd,
Weekends are perfect for me. I have a regular boring 9-5 job during the week, and I normally shoot music videos weeknights. I can't thank you enough for doing this. I know my mom will appreciate it.
~JCHVideos
I couldn't help but smile at the message. He seemed so incredibly close with his mom, and that was something I admired because I was close to my mom.
Dear JCHVideos,
It's no problem. You're actually helping me out a pickle myself. My brother and his fiancé are freaking out, and I wanted to take this burden off them but it was stressing me out.
~ArtNerd
I can't believe I just said the word pickle in a sentence that wasn't being used to order food. He probably thought I was a 13 year old girl.
Dear ArtNerd,
I completely understand. So, does this weekend work for you?
~JCHVideos
Well, if he thought I was weird, he wasn't showing it which was nice.
Dear JCHVideos,
This weekend is perfect. Do you know Taki's?
~ArtNerd
Dear ArtNerd,
I practically live there. I'm their regular 3 am customer.
~JCHVideos
Dear JCHVideos,
I'm amazed we've never crossed paths before. I'm their regular midnight to 2 am customer. It's the perfect place to grade things.
~ArtNerd
Dear ArtNerd,
We probably have we just don't know it. You don't show your face in your videos, and neither do I.
~JCHVideos
Dear JCHVideos,
You are totally right. How about we meet at Taki's at 9 Friday night. Does that work?
~ArtNerd
Dear ArtNerd,
That sounds perfect. Meet in the far back booth.
~JCHVideos
Dear JCHVideos,
You got it. Well, I should get some sleep. I have work in the morning. Thanks again JCH, it really means a lot.
~ArtNerd
Dear ArtNerd,
It's not a problem. Thank you for liking my work enough to want my help Nerd. Have a good night, and I'll see you Friday.
~JCHVideos
I smiled to myself and shut my laptop. Thankfully I can tell my brother I have a videographer, and I was going to meet this guy who I have potentially seen in passing before but never even knew. It was pretty exciting if you ask me, and my life was due for a little excitement.
Time Jump – Friday Night
Clary POV:
I got to Taki's a little earlier than 9 since I desperately needed coffee and to finish these projects, and I seem to do my best work at Taki's. Every time the door bell rang, I couldn't help but look up, but none of the customers were making their way back to me, so I knew it wasn't him.
The one time the bell does ring, and I don't look up would be the time he comes in, and when he sat in front of me and I nearly pissed myself, and he just laughed, and when I looked at him, and I mean really looked at him, he was gorgeous.
"Didn't mean to scare you Nerd." He said and even his voice was gorgeous.
"It's okay. I tend to be a jumpy person by nature, and my name is Clary." I said and he smiled.
"Jace." He said. And a hot name, great. "So, what are you grading?" He asked.
"My students recently had a project due on their interpretation of an everyday object in the cubism style, and I need them graded by Monday, but with the whole wedding crisis, I've been slacking." I admitted.
"I know nothing about art, but that sounds a little complicated." He said and I laughed. I looked down and picked up and picture of the sculpture and turned it towards him. "Yea, I could never create that."
"Some of them had a little trouble, but over all I was pretty impressed." I said.
"What grade do you teach?" He asked.
"I teacher 11th and 12th grade advanced art." I said.
"Where?" He asked.
"Alicante Academy." I said.
"Good ol' AA." He said and I laughed.
"You know it?" I asked.
"I graduated from there." He said, and I nodded. "I stayed far away from advanced art though." He said and I laughed.
"So, you said you had a boring 9-5 job." I said and he nodded. "What do you do?" I asked.
"I work as an accountant at my fathers company." He said.
"Sounds loads of fun." I said sarcastically and he laughed.
"I don't mind it. I've always been good at it, and I like working for my father. It just isn't my passion." He explained.
"So why major in it?" I asked.
"I wanted to have a secure and sable future, and what I want to do is hard to get a solid future unless you know someone in the industry, and I don't." He said. "It hasn't happened yet, but when I settle down, and start a family, I want to be able to provide for them."
"Makes sense." I said.
"Okay, so tell me a little about your brother and his fiancé." He asked.
"My brother Jon is 28." I said. "His fiancé, Seelie, is 28 as well. They met freshman year of college, and this wedding is long over due." I said and he laughed. "Both of them are lawyers, and they have a dog named Princess Peach."
"Nice." He said. "When is the wedding exactly?" He asked.
"January 11th." I said and he nodded.
"I've never shot a winter wedding." He said.
"Yea, they met in the winter, and thought it was fitting, but they didn't want it to be right around Christmas, so they chose a day that was a good distance from it." I explained.
"Makes sense." He said. "So, what I like to do is just get a feel for everyone, so is there a time where you'll all be together?" He asked.
"There is a huge bridal party at my parents house in a week. Just to get everyone together and comfortable around each other since some of the brides maids and grooms men don't know each other. The photographer will be there taking pictures, you should come and get some raw footage." I explained.
"Sounds good." He said and he took out a card. "There's my number. Text me the details and I'll be there."
"Great. And I can't thank you enough for doing this." I said.
"No problem." He said. "I actually have to get home and see my mom, but next weekend, are you free to start those art lessons?" He asked.
"I am. Saturday, noon, meet here. We'll eat and than get started." I said.
"Great. See you next week Clary." He said. I nodded and he got up and left the restaurant. I looked at his card:
Jace Herondale
Armature director
Cell – (302) 555 7894
I smiled to my self and put his number in my phone. After the information was in there, I texted Jon to let him know I found a guy and with the amount of emoji's he used, I would say he was very pleased. I went back to grading papers, hoping that I would be finished by midnight so that I could get come sleep. I was going cake testing with Seelie, my mom and her mom tomorrow, and as much as I loved cake, getting minimal sleep wouldn't be beneficial since I get pretty bitchy without it.
Time Jump – Next Weekend
Jace POV:
I had gotten to Taki's early because my mom was being examined by her doctor and I just hated seeing it, so I tended to make myself scarce whenever she came around, and this was the perfect excuse to leave. I was absentmindedly spinning a spoon in my coffee when Clary sat down across from me.
"How long have you been here?" She asked.
"About an hour." I said.
"If you wanted to meet earlier, you should have told me." She said as she pulled out a sketchbook.
"It's not that." I said. "My mom had her weekly examination, and the doctor comes to our house, and I just hate watching, so I normally just disappear when she comes over, and this was the perfect excuse to get away." I explained.
"Not that it's any of my business, but what's wrong with your mom?" She asked.
"She has young-onset Parkinson's Disease." I said. "She was diagnosed when she was 51." I explained.
"That's horrible." She said and I nodded. "How bad is it?" She asked.
"She was unable to use a paintbrush or pencil about a year after her diagnosis. I find her just staring at her artwork with the saddest expression ever. It kills me." I said.
"I can't even imagine. Art is my life, and if I couldn't do it anymore, I'd probably fall apart." She said.
"Yea. My dad and I try to keep her mind busy so that she doesn't think about it, but she's an artist, so it's always on her mind." I said and she laughed.
"I know what's that like. Even sitting here I'm thinking about all the different ways I could draw you." She said and than her cheeks went bright red. "I didn't mean to vocalize that." She laughed and I smiled.
"I don't mind." I said. "My mom used to draw me all the time. Believe it or not, that wasn't the first time I've heard that." I reassured her and she nodded.
"Can I see some of the pieces your mom created?" She asked and I nodded and pulled out the sketchbook that I snuck out of her art room. I handed it to Clary and she started looking through it. "Wow. She was amazing."
"I know. I can't even draw a stick figure." I said and she laughed.
"Did your mom ever teach you?" She asked.
"She tried when I was little, but I wasn't into it." I explained. "She taught me how to do pottery. But that was it."
"You do pottery?" She asked a little surprised.
"Not in a long time." I said and she nodded.
"So, what were you thinking about doing for her?" She asked.
"I wanted to paint my favorite picture of us together." I said. I took out the photo and handed it to Clary and she smiled.
"How old were you in this picture?" She asked.
"I was 10." I said. "We were celebrating a big win. My baseball team won our little league season."
"Nice. Why not a family photo?" She asked.
"My dad wasn't around a lot when I was a kid. He was so caught up in work. My mom pretty much raised me by herself." I said and she nodded.
"I know the feeling. My dad was absent a lot too. Always going on business trips and working long nights." She said and I nodded. It was nice to know it wasn't just me going through that when I was young. "Alright, let's start with the basics." She said and I nodded. She handed me a completely new sketchbook and I opened it to the first page.
We sat there for nearly 4 hours as she taught me how to draw a tree. I was surprised at how much I improved by the time I drew my 12th tree. Clary and I laughed and talked about our week and everything, it was almost like I was catching up with a long lost friend instead of a stranger, and that was actually really nice considering we were going to be spending a lot of time together, and nothing is worse that awkward interactions and conversations.
"I have to go." Clary said when 5 rolled around. "I'm meeting my brother and his fiancé to go over center pieces."
"Sounds fun." I said and she laughed.
"It would be if I wasn't really allergic to flowers." She said and I laughed. "But I'd do anything for my brother."
"Well, I appreciate the lesson." I said and I handed her book back but she didn't take it.
"Keep it and continue to practice until our next meeting." She said and I nodded. "Since next weekend in the wedding party thing, I don't know what you want to do." She said.
"I mean, depending on how long it goes, we can just do it after." I suggested.
"Sounds good. I'll text you the address, and I'll see you next weekend." She said.
"Can't wait." I said and she smiled and left.
I made my way home, and when I pulled up I was thankful that the doctor didn't stay. Sometimes her and my mom loved to talk. I kept the art stuff in the car just so my mom didn't get suspicious and I made my way into the house to see her. She was sitting in her normal chair watching the TV. I walked over and kissed her cheek.
"You worried me Jonathan. I thought you'd be back sooner." She said.
"I'm sorry mom. I had to meet someone." I said.
"Is this someone a girl?" She asked and I laughed.
"It is, but I just met her. She saw some of my videos on YouTube and her brother is getting married and their videographer bailed on them and she asked me, and you know I love pretty much any project that involves creating." I said and she nodded.
"That is very nice of you." She said.
"It's tough because we can really only meet on weekends since we both have jobs, but I'm excited to meet the bride and groom and get everything started." I said and she nodded.
"What does she do for work?" My mom asked.
"She's the advanced art teacher at Alicante Academy." I said and her eyes lit up.
"Oh Jonathan, you have to bring her over here so we can meet. I'd love to talk art with her." She said.
"I'll ask her, and we'll set something up." I said and she nodded with excitement. "You eat dinner yet?" I asked.
"Nope." She said.
"I'll make us something." I said and I kissed her forehead.
"I love you Jonathan." She said.
"I love you too mom." I said as I made my way into the kitchen.
Time Jump – One Week Later
Clary POV:
The bridal party was all here and mingling, but Jace wasn't and I was starting to get worried. I mean, I knew he was good at what he does, but if his punctuality is not there, I don't know if I can trust him to get to the wedding in time. The sound of the door bell ringing brought me out of my thoughts. I went to answer it, and when I did, there stood Jace.
"I'm so sorry. The nurse coming to stay with my mom today was late, and I couldn't leave her alone." He said and I instantly let it go.
"That's okay. You're here now." I said as I welcomed him in. we walked into the living room where my brother was and I walked right up to him. "Jon, this is Jace, he's going to be your new videographer."
"Thank you so much for doing this man." Jon said. "It means a lot to me and my fiancé."
"No problem man." Jace said and they shook hands.
"Well, lets get you a drink." Jon said and Jace nodded and laughed.
"I don't really know what you want to do, but you're free to roam." I said and he nodded. He walked over to the corner and put his things down and started getting ready and I continued to mingle, until the biggest douchebag came over to me with his cocky arrogant smirk.
"Hey babe." He said.
"Ugh. Sebastian, how many times do I have to tell you, leave me alone." I said.
"You don't mean that sweet thing." He said and I wanted to vomit.
"Actually I really do." I said and at that moment Jace walked by me and I got the best plan. I grabbed his arm and pulled him towards me. "Hey babe, I'm really thirsty, can you go grab me a drink?" I asked pleading with my eyes and hoping that he understood. He looked up and saw Sebastian and than back at me and smiled.
"Of course." He said. He kissed my head and walked away. I smiled and looked back at Sebastian who was now scowling, before he stormed off. Jace returned with a drink, no idea what it was, and I sighed.
"Thank you so much. He's been begging me to go out with him since he met me." I said and Jace laughed.
"No problem. I'm gonna go be a creepy stalker for a little while now." He said and I laughed.
The rest of the day went by smoothly. The bridesmaids and groomsmen all seemed to get along really well, and that was a good thing. There wasn't anything worse than people who didn't mesh well together. I tried to talk to everyone there, but my eyes always wondered back to Jace. He was in his element, and I could tell how important this was to him even though he didn't really know Seelie or Jon, and that meant a lot to me. Although, Seelie's friends were following him around like lost puppies. I felt bad for him, and a little jealous if I'm being honest, but he was a grown man, and if he wanted them gone he would have said something so I just let it go, or tried to at least. I was at the bar when I felt a hand on my back and when I looked to my left there stood Jace.
"Save me from the vultures." He said and I looked behind me and Kaelie, and Aline were death glaring me.
"No problem." I said. I slide closer to him, and his hand went a little lower until it was resting on my hip. The bartender handed me my drink and I thanked him and grabbed Jace's hand and led him onto the balcony.
"Thank you." He said and I smiled.
"You saved me earlier, it seemed only fitting." I said and he nodded.
"You have a great house." He said.
"Yea. It's a little big, but my parents have always been a little extra when it comes to material things." I explained.
"What do they do for a living? If that isn't too much to ask." He asked.
"My dad is a partner at Lightwood and Morgenstern Law Firm, and my mom comes from old money, so she volunteers a lot, and stuff." I said.
"That's cool." He said.
"Did you get some good film today?" I asked after a moment of silence.
"Yea. I think it'll be great." He said.
"Good." I said. We stood there looking over the balcony at my backyard. This was actually where the wedding was taking place, and the back barn was where the whole thing was taking place. "That barn is where the wedding is taking place." I said to him.
"Nice. Pretty rustic." He said.
"Not when you see the inside." I said and I looked inside. Everyone was pretty occupied. "Come on." I said. I grabbed his hand and we made our way off the balcony. We got to the barn and I slid the doors opened and flicked the lights on.
"Shit." He said and I laughed.
"Yea. When Jon told my dad he wanted to get married on the property but he wanted to be married in January, my dad redid this whole thing." I explained. "Very modern."
"I can see." He said as he was looking around. "It'll make for a great wedding video though." He said and I nodded. "Oh, and my mom wants to meet you." He said and my jaw dropped.
"Really?" I asked.
"Yea. I told her about me being the videographer for your brothers wedding, and she started asking about you, and I told her you were an art teacher and she got really excited." He said.
"Well, I can't possibly turn down the chance to talk to a fellow artist." I said and he smiled.
"I know it'll mean the world to her." He said.
"Okay, so I was thinking." I started. "The footage you got today could be made into a bigger thing and play during the cocktail hour of the wedding." I explained. "Like you could come to the bridal shower, and the rehearsal dinner and even the ceremony rehearsal."
"I think I can manage that." He said. "When would those events take place?" He asked.
"The bridal shower is November 11th." I said. "The rehearsal dinner is January 7th, and the wedding rehearsal is January 9th."
"I'll pencil you in, and I'll be there." He said.
"Thank you so much." I said and he smiled.
"Not a problem." He said. "So, are you like the maid of honor or something?" He asked.
"No. That would be Kaelie, the lovely blonde you ran away from earlier." I said and he laughed.
"You seem awfully invested." He commented.
"Kaelie only cares about the bachelorette party." I explained. "She's pretty much useless for anything else, so I decided to just step up and do the things that she's slacking on."
"That's really nice of you." He said.
"It's my brothers wedding. When I was going to get married he stepped up a lot because my father was pretty much gone." I explained.
"So the wedding didn't happen?" He asked cautiously.
"No." I said. "We started dating in high school. He was my best friend and he was in love with me, and I thought I'd give it a try and see if there was something there." I explained.
"So what happened?" He asked as we took a seat on the benches.
"I just got comfortable." I said. "I knew someone out there wanted me, and I felt like that was as good as it was ever going to get. He proposed and I just said yes because let's face it, I wasn't getting any younger. We were about 2 months into planning everything when it dawned on me."
"What dawned on you?" He asked.
"I shouldn't have to settle in life." I said. "Someone is going to want me, and I'm going to wait for that someone to come along, and I know when he does, I'll be happy." I said and he nodded. "Telling Simon was so difficult because I didn't want to crush him, but I couldn't go through with it. Jon gave me a lot of encouragement, and I told Simon, and I felt so much lighter after it happened, and he told me that he did too."
"So it all worked out?" He asked.
"It did. He is now engaged to the daughter of the other partner of my dad's firm and he's incredibly happy." I said and he nodded. "What about you? Ever get close to getting married?" I asked.
"No. I dated a lot, but I never really did the whole relationship thing. At least, I never found a girl that I wanted to be in a relationship with." He explained. "I don't necessarily have high standards, but I've always known that when I find her, I'll know."
"Well, I hope you find her." I said and he smiled. "We should get back inside." I said and he nodded. We walked back to the house and when we got there, Jace went to get more footage and I went to find my brother.
"Sneaking off with the new guy?" Jon asked suggestively and I rolled my eyes.
"I was showing him the barn where the wedding was taking place asshole." I said and he laughed. He got me another drink and I looked behind me to see Jace getting some more footage. I couldn't stop the smile that spread across my face as I looked at him. I was going to enjoy this time getting to know Jace, I knew it.
Time Jump – Meeting Jace's Mom
Clary POV:
I was meeting Jace's mom today, and I was a nervous wreck. Meeting new people wasn't horrible for me, but it definitely wasn't my favorite thing to do. And this was his mother, who was battling a disease. I didn't want to come off as a bitch, but I also didn't want to treat her like a patient. I had no idea what a happy medium was, and that scared me.
I knocked on the front door, and waited a few minutes, which for me felt like a few hours with how nervous I was. When I heard the lock switch, I took one last deep breath before Jace appeared behind the open door.
"Glad you could make it." He said and I smiled.
"Of course." I said as he welcomed me in. He started walking and I followed as I closed the door behind me. We got into a room where a woman was sitting in a chair.
"Mom, Clary is here." Jace said and his mother looked back at smiled.
"Oh my." She said and I instantly felt self-conscious. "You're gorgeous. I wish I had your hair color." She said and my cheeks flared red.
"Thank you, but I love your color. I always wanted to be a blonde growing up." I said and she laughed. Jace offered me a seat and I gladly took it.
"So Jonathan tells me you're an art teacher." She said and I was confused.
"Jonathan?" I asked and she chuckled.
"Jace." She corrected. "His real name is Jonathan." She explained and I looked up at Jace and he just shrugged.
"I've never liked my name." He admitted.
"It's okay. I don't like being called Clarissa either." I said and he smiled.
"I'm going to go get your lunch ready mom. Would you like anything Clary?" He asked.
"A cup of coffee would be really nice." I said and he nodded and left the room.
"So, what made you want to become an art teacher?" She asked once Jace was gone.
"I've always had a talent for art." I explained. "I was drawing before I could properly write my own name." I laughed and so did she. "It became my escape for everything, and I knew I always wanted to pursue it but I didn't know in what direction."
"So how did teaching find you?" She asked.
"My freshman year of college I had this art class. Our semester assignment was to create a YouTube page and teach art tutorials. My professor checked up on them, and I just loved doing it. People would constantly comment on how great my work was, or how much I helped them." I said. "I loved the feeling of helping someone fix their craft, or just learn a new hobby. I decided then that I wanted to be a teacher to help shape those minds."
"That's incredibly inspiring." She said and I smiled.
"It's a really rewarding job." I said. "I love it." At that moment Jace walked back in with a tray of food, and a cup of coffee.
"I kept it black, just like you like it." He said and I smiled. "I'm going to go up to the study and finish some work. But stay as long as you like Clary." He said and I nodded before he disappeared upstairs.
"So, what's your favorite kind of art to create?" She asked.
"Such a tough question." I laughed and she smiled. "But when it comes to what I feel the most connected too, that would have to be symbolism." I said. "I love painting something that had meaning, and not just any basic meaning, but a meaning to someone."
"I've always like symbolism, but I love suprematism." She said.
"Oh god, why is that?" I asked and she laughed.
"I find it challenging, and I always loved a challenge." She said and I nodded. "Is there any art that you've always wanted to do?" She than asked.
"I've always had a fascination in graffiti. But I would never be able to do it." I said and she laughed.
"I was a tagger." She said. "That's actually how I got really into art."
"No way." I said surprised and she nodded.
"It was such a thrill." She said. "Even if I got caught, I lived off the adrenaline of it all." She explained.
"That's crazy." I said and she smiled.
"Maybe, but it's how I met Jace's father." She said.
"Really?" I asked.
"Yea. I was being detained after vandalizing a building, and his father, Stephen, was visiting his father, Marcus, who happened to be the Chief of Police." She explained.
"How did you two get together?" I asked.
"He was immediately attracted to me, and even tried to ask me out right there. Handcuffs and all, but I rejected him." She said.
"Why is that?" I asked curiously.
"I didn't want a goody two shoes." She said. "I wanted someone wild. Someone who would take the same risks as I did. And he grew up in a police family. He would never break the law."
"What changed?" I asked.
"He was a persistent guy." She laughed. "He asked me out every week for 3 months, but I just kept saying no. Finally, I gave in when he tagged a building asking me out."
"That's so romantic in it's own way." I said.
"He got a lot of shit from his dad after that, but after we started seeing something I realized that I didn't need someone like me, I needed the opposite." She said. "I needed someone to ground me when my imagination and my recklessness was getting the better of me, and Stephen needed someone to pull him to that wild side and get him to let loose every now and than." She smiled. "We were the perfect match, and we still are."
"I'd kill to have that." I said and she nodded.
"It's an incredible feeling." She said. "But you'll get there." I nodded and than I heard the sound of a piano filling the air.
"What's that?" I asked.
"That's Jace." She said.
"He can play?" I asked.
"Marvelously." She bragged. "He was a natural when it came to the piano as a kid."
"Why is he playing now?" I questioned.
"He's probably stressed. He uses it to clear his mind to get a fresh perspective." She said and I nodded, and in that moment, the front door opened and in walked a man who looked like Jace. "Stephen, what are you doing home?" Celine asked. She was clearly surprised.
"I had to fire my VP today because he was stealing money from us, and I wasn't happy. So I had to leave." He explained.
"Is that was Jace is stressing about?" Celine asked.
"Yea. He's the one who found the pattern of missing money." He said.
"What are you going to do?" Celine asked.
"Take him to court." Stephen said and than he looked at me. "You're new." He said and I laughed.
"Stephen, this is Clary. Jace is the videographer for her brothers' wedding, and she's an artist." Celine said and I smiled.
"Stephen Herondale. Nice to meet you." He extended his hand.
"Clary Morgenstern, pleasure to meet you as well." I said and his eyes widened.
"You wouldn't happen to be related to Valentine Morgenstern would you?" He asked.
"He's my father." I said. "You know him?"
"His firm is my company lawyer." He said. "Although I normally deal with Robert, but I've met Valentine once of twice before." He explained.
"Is he as intimidating as everyone says?" I ask and he laughs.
"Slightly." He said and I smiled.
"I should probably head home. I have a lot of papers to grade." I said and Celine nodded. "Do you mind if I go say goodbye to Jace?" I asked.
"Not at all sweetie. Just follow the music." She said and I nodded.
I walked through the house listening to the elegant music that Jace was playing. I was mesmerized. When I got to the doorway, I just stood there and listened. He was so concentrated, and I didn't want to disturb him. When he was finished, I started clapping, and I nearly made him fall off the piano bench.
"Hell Clary, don't scare me like that." He said and I laughed.
"I'm sorry, but I just had to clap." I said and he smiled. "You're amazing."
"Thank you." He said. "What brings you up here?" He asked.
"I have to head home. I have a lot of grading to do." I said and he nodded. "But thank you for letting me come over and gush about art with your mom."
"I think you may have just made her year." He said and I laughed.
"Than I'll have to do it again." I smiled and he smiled back.
"I think she'd love that." He said. "I'll walk you out." He said and I nodded.
We went downstairs and passed his parents talking in the living room. Jace nodded to his father, who returned the nod while still talking to Celine. When we got to the door we both lingered for a moment.
"So, the bridal shower is coming up." I said. "I'll text you the details, and get everything set up."
"Sounds perfect." He said.
"And next weekend, our art lessons are back on." I said and he smiled.
"Great." He said. "See you later Clary."
"Bye Jace." I walked out and spent the whole car ride home with a ridiculous smile plastered across my face.
Time Jump – Bridal Shower
Jace POV:
I had gotten to the venue for the bridal shower a littler earlier than necessary to set everything up. Clary was running around like a mad woman trying to get everything situated, and I didn't blame her. The maid of honor is a dud, and is literally filing her nails while Clary is pretty much being Cinderella.
I was looking at my camera, and getting it set properly when I heard someone clear their throat. I looked up and there she stood in all her bottle blonde and fake tit glory.
"Can I help you?" I asked.
"I was just coming to ask you a couple questions." She said.
"And what are they?" I asked.
"Well, my left side is my good side, so if you could stay on that side, it would be great." She said.
"That wasn't a question." I pointed out.
"You know what I mean." She waved it off. "Also, how long have you and the little leprechaun been a thing?" She asked as her eyes shifted towards Clary.
"Since July." I lie. "We both frequent Taki's and we ran into each other and just started talking. It kinda grew from there." I said. She huffed and stomped away, and now I had to go find Clary and tell her what I did.
I was walking around the house when Clary came running through the room like it had ben lit on fire. She really needed to take a breather, so I grabbed her hand and pulled her into the bathroom and sat her on the counter.
"I don't have time for this Jace." She said.
"You need a 5 minute break." I said. "Plus, I need to talk to you."
"What's up?" She asked.
"Kaelie came over to me, and asked how long we have been seeing each other, and I really didn't want to deal with her, so I told her that we've been seeing each other since July. We met at Taki's and it just kinda went front here." I explained.
"Okay. I can roll with that." She said and I smiled.
"You cool with me springing this on you?" I asked.
"Of course. She's a Class A clinger, and you don't need to deal with that." She said. "And I'm assuming she called me some nickname while talking about me." She said and I laughed.
"She called you a little leprechaun." I said and she laughed.
"You know, I really wish people would get more creative with the nicknames." She said and I laughed. "Leprechaun just isn't original."
"I happen to really like your hair." I blurted out.
"Thanks." She said sincerely. "I was self conscious by it for years, but I grew to like it as well. It makes me stand out."
"That it does." I agreed.
"Okay, well I have to get back out there and get everything set up before the party stars." She said and I nodded. She hopped off the counter and made her way out of the bathroom. I took a deep breath and walked out to get everything ready myself. This might be a long day, especially if Kaelie keeps shooting daggers at me with her eyes.
Time Jump – Two Hours Later
Clary POV:
I was getting something to drink when Seelie came up next to me and was just smiling at me, and it started to creep me out.
"Why are you staring at me like that?" I asked.
"What's going on with you and Jace?" She asked.
"You to?" I asked and she laughed.
"Something is going on there Clary. I can see it." She said.
"Kaelie has been hitting on him, and he isn't interested, but you know how Kaelie can be, so he told her we've been seeing each other since July, and we're just trying to sell it." I explained.
"Oh honey, you don't need to try very hard. You two act like a couple who has been married for years." She said and I looked at him.
"Really?" I asked.
"Yea. It's like you two are so in sync with each other. You can have a conversation without speaking." She said. "That's rare. Jon and I don't even have that. If I'm thinking banana, he's thinking orange." She said and I laughed.
"Nothing is happening." I reiterated.
"Well, don't let this end without seeing if there is potential there." She said before leaving to go mingle again. I looked back at Jace and he smiled at me. I focused back on getting a drink. I didn't like him, did I?
Time Jump – Rehearsal Dinner
Jace POV:
"Jace." I heard and I turned around to see Clary. "I was told to instruct you to get a shoot of Seelie and Jon walking into the room."
"Of course." I said. "That's why I'm standing near the entrance." I pointed to the doors and she held up her hands.
"Don't shoot the messenger. It was Kaelie's request that I tell my 'boy toy' that he needs to get the shoot." She said and I laughed.
"I can literally feel her staring at me." I said. "It's weird."
"Well, after the wedding, you don't ever have to see her again." She said and I nodded. "Okay, well I've done my job. I need a drink." She said and I laughed as she walked away.
I wouldn't say things have been weird between Clary and I since the bridal shower, but something is definitely going on. Even my mom noticed. She seemed to be all I could think about these days, and when we're together it just felt right, but I had no idea how she felt about it, and that kinda left us in a huge grey area, and I didn't like it. But I could tell how stressed she was about the wedding, and I wasn't going to add to that, so I was happy being the videographer and her art student for the time being, but after, I planned on figuring it all out.
I got the perfect footage or Seelie and Jon coming into the hall, and I couldn't even begin to explain how excited I was to start working and editing this footage. I guess it was how much I loved creating music videos, or wedding videos, or short films, but the preparation was making me want to explode with excitement and I couldn't wait to sit in front of my computer and add this to the project.
I was on my break and standing at the bar waiting for my drink when someone came up from behind me and stood next to me at the bar. I internally groaned when I saw that it was Sebastian. This guy was a douche, and the male version of Kaelie when it came to being a Class A clinger as Clary would say.
"Wonderful isn't it." He said. "Marriage."
"It's great." I said. "I'm glad they found the person they want to spend forever with." I further said.
"I would have been married long ago if it was up to me." He said.
"Sometimes it's worth the wait." I said.
"Are you and Clary planning on getting married?" He asked and I had to bit back the shock that filled my body. Everyone apart from Jon and Seelie thought we were dating, so I should be expecting these questions, but they still shocked me nonetheless.
"We just started seeing each other in July." I said. "I think it's a little early to be thinking marriage."
"Nonsense. If I was dating Clary, I would have proposed a week after dating." He said.
"Why is that?" I asked. "Wouldn't you want to get to know her first?"
"I already know her." He said confidently.
"Oh really?" I asked. "What's her job?" I asked him and he looked at me confused.
"She's a receptionist." He said and I laughed.
"She's a teacher." I told him. "Do you really think all women are good for is answering phones and booking appointments?" I asked.
"No." He said, and he almost redeemed himself with that answer, but than he started talking again. "They're also good for cooking, cleaning, and sex."
"Wow." I said. "And here I thought you couldn't be any more sexist."
"I'm not sexist. Women have a role in society, just like men have a role." He said.
"You don't see anything wrong with that logic?" I asked.
"No, because there is nothing wrong with it." Sebastian said. "Women are gathers, home keepers, nurturers and men are hunters, providers, protectors. We fulfill our roles the way that it was intended." He said and I honestly couldn't be more shocked that people like him still existed.
Clary POV:
I saw Sebastian walk over to Jace at the bar. I instantly wanted to go over there and save him but they started talking, and I didn't want to interrupt, but that didn't mean that I wasn't curious about what they were talking about. So I got up and made it look like I was walking to the bathroom, when I changed paths and stood close enough that I could hear what they were talking about.
"No, because there is nothing wrong with it." Sebastian said. "Women are gathers, home keepers, nurturers and men are hunters, providers, protectors. We fulfill our roles the way that it was intended." He explained, and that got me curious because Jace looked horrified.
"Our society has evolved Sebastian. Women are just as capable, if not more so, to do everything men could do." Jace said and I couldn't help but smile.
"So you're saying, you'd be okay with Clary earning more money than you, and let's say you two do get married." He said and my eyes widened, they were talking about me. "And you start a family, you'd be cool with being a stay at home dad if need be?" Sebastian asked.
"Of course." Jace said. "Daycare is expensive, and who knows if Clary and I would be able to afford that." Jace said and my stomach did a little flip as Jace talked about out nonexistent future. "So if Clary made more money than me, and one of us had to stay home and watch our kids, she wouldn't need to ask me, I'd volunteer."
"Talk about having no balls." Sebastian snorted out.
"Choosing to raise my kids, means I have more balls than you." Jace said to Sebastian as he straightened up, and damn, I knew he was tall, but he made Sebastian look small. "It doesn't matter who is the man and who is the woman in a relationship. When you're together, you're a team, that means you have to work together. Being the one who 'wears the pants' in the relationship isn't healthy. And yea, sometimes women do like when you take charge, or initiate things. Women tend to like a man who knows what he wants, but at some point that has to stop, and what has to be taken into consideration is what's better for the relationship as a whole, and the affects that it could have on the future." Jace said and I was super impressed with him. "Look man, I don't know what the future holds for Clary and I, but I think it would be wise to reevaluate how to think because with that mind set, you're going to be alone forever." Jace said as he grabbed his drink and walked away. I tip toed away from Sebastian so he wouldn't see me and made my way over to Jace. He was on his phone looking at something when I took a seat next to him.
"Hey." I said and he looked up.
"Hey. What's up? Is my break over?" He asked.
"No." I said. "I overheard you and Sebastian talking." I said and he nodded.
"He asked about us getting married, and I tried to just move past the subject and than he started talking all high and mighty and 'women do this' and 'men do that' and it bothered me you know? And I couldn't just not do anything…." I clapped my hand over his mouth so that he would stop rambling.
"Thank you." I said as I moved my hand. "For defending me and all women."
"No problem." He said. "I really should get back to working though." He said as he stood up. "I took a longer break than necessary."
"Okay." I said a little disappointed. He gave me a smile and walked away. I stood up and went back to take my seat next to Seelie and I looked at her. "You were right." I said and she looked at me. "I do like him."
"Good." She said. "So make him yours." I nodded and for the rest of the night I thought about the ways that I could confront Jace about my feelings. The thing is, I'm not very good at this. I'm not great with my words, and I'm not really one for making huge gestures. So I didn't even know where to begin when it came to this type of thing.
Time Jump – Wedding Day
Clary POV:
I couldn't believe the day was finally here. It's been a stressful road but I couldn't be more proud of Jon and Seelie. Thy deserved to have the perfect day, and I knew all the stress was going to pay off.
Jace got here about 10 minutes ago, and I still hadn't told him how I felt. It was weird just going up to someone and being like 'hey, I like you. Let's date.' I doubt it would work and let's face it, I wasn't brace enough to pull that off. But now every time I saw him, I got nervous. My palms would sweat, my heart would start racing and I blushed like crazy. Seelie teased me when she first noticed it, but I couldn't help it, he just naturally got that reaction out of me.
So as the guests arrived, and we got all the finishing touches on , and we made our way to the back of the church, I couldn't get Jace out of my head. I needed to tell him today, and I would tell him today. And if he didn't feel the same way, than at least I tried.
The music started and I was pulled out of my head and back to reality. The doors opened and the ceremony was in full swing. I smiled as big as I possibly could when I spotted my brother. He looked happier than I've ever seen him, and I couldn't wait for Seelie to become my sister-in-law.
The whole ceremony went perfectly. The smile never left Jon's face, and I knew Seelie was the same way. They were truly meant for each other, and I could wait to see what life had in store for them. Oh and nieces and nephews, I want a couple of those.
Since it was winter, the picture portion that took place during the cocktail hour was cold. But I knew Jon and Seelie really wanted pictures outside, with the beautiful snow, so we went outside, and I couldn't wait to get back in the heat.
We were called in couple by couple until Jon and Seelie were announced and the whole place went crazy. Everyone was happy for them, and I just couldn't believe they got married. Today was a good day, and it wasn't even close to being over.
I got up while we were eating to get another drink when a man approached me.
"You're Jon's sister right?" He asked.
"That's me." I said cheerfully.
"My name is Hodge Starkweather. I work for Idris Recording Studio." He said. "Your videographer, where did you find him?" He asked.
"YouTube." I said. "It's not his full time job, but he's crazy passionate about film making. He even directs local bands music videos if they can't afford a real director, he's really good." I said.
"He's amazing." Hodge said. "I'd love to set a meeting up with him and talk about his potential."
"Of course Mr. Starkweather." I said.
"Give him my card, and gave him call me this week." He said as he handed me the card. I nodded and he walked away.
I needed to tell Jace, but I didn't want to disturb him, so I was going to wait until the end of the reception, but I couldn't get the grin off my face. This was Jace's shot, and I couldn't be prouder of him.
Time Jump - End of Reception
Clary POV:
Everyone was leaving, and Jace was in the corner packing up his equipment. I made my way over to him and took a seat next to his camera.
"It was a wonderful wedding." He said. "It was an honor to shoot it."
"Thank you for again for doing it." I said.
"Whatever gives me the chance to do what I love." He said as e looked at me. "Plus I got to meet you, so it was totally worth it." He said and I couldn't help but blush.
"So, I have some news for you." I said and he looked at me. "One of the guests here works for Idris Recording Studio." I said and his eyes went wide. "He was really impressed with your video." I said and I handed him the card. "He wants to set up a meeting to discuss your potential." I said and his jaw was on the ground.
"Holy shit." He said and I laughed.
"Congratulations Jace." I said. "I always knew you were good."
"This could be my chance." He said and I nodded in agreement. "I don't know how to thank you Clary."
"You don't have to thank me." I said. "You helped me out, and I'm helping you out. This was all you."
"But it wouldn't be possible without you." He said. I didn't know how to respond so I didn't. He looked up for the card and our eyes met, and before I knew it, we were kissing. I'd imagined it for months, but actually experiencing it, holy hell was it amazing. When he pulled away I instantly wanted him back. "I'm sorry. I should have asked."
"Don't." I said. "I wouldn't have kissed you back if I didn't want it to happen."
"I guess it's obvious now that I like you." He said shyly and I smiled.
"I guess it's obvious that I like you too." I said and he smiled.
"After I have this meeting with..." he looked back down at the card. "Hodge, how would you like to go out to dinner with me?" He asked and I smiled. "As our first official date, and so I can tell you all about the meeting."
"I think that sounds amazing." I said and he pressed his lips to mine again. He grabbed his stuff and he took my hand in his and we walked out of the building together. It was a good day indeed.
Time Jump - Meeting
Jace POV:
I sat there waiting for my name to be called and I was freaking out. I didn't know what this meeting was going to be about, but I was in a big name recording studio, and that was absolutely insane to me.
"Jonathan Herondale?" I heard and I stood up. I followed the receptionist (who was a male, take that Sebastian) and got to the doors. "Go in when you're ready." He said and I nodded. I opened the doors and behind a desk, sat a man. I walked over and sat in from of his desk.
"Thank you for coming in today Jonathan." He said. "I'm Hodge Starkweather."
"It's a pleasure to meet you Mr. Starkweather." I said. "And I actually prefer to be called Jace."
"You're in luck, because I prefer to be called Hodge. Mr. Starkweather was my father, a miserable old bastard if you ask me." He said and I laughed. "So, I saw your work at the wedding and I was very impressed."
"Thank you Hodge. That means a lot coming from you." I said.
"Of course I can't just give you a directing job." He said and I nodded. "But there is a job available here, and it would be up to you to work your way up." He explained. "I'm not about people getting free rides. You need to earn your spot and your credibility."
"I completely understand Hodge." I said and he nodded.
"Your boss with be James Carstairs. He is the head director of all music videos." He said and I nodded. "You'll be his assistant. You start Monday."
"Thank you for this opportunity Hodge." I said as I stood up.
"I'll see you soon." He said. I walked out and couldn't help but smile. I may be an assistant but I was an assistant to one of the best music video directors in the industry, and I was pretty excited about that.
I texted Clary and we were going to meet at Taki's to talk about what happened. I couldn't wait to tell her the good news and just start my passion of being a director. When I got there, Clary was already sitting in our normal booth. I made my way over to her, gave her a chaste kiss on the lips before sitting down.
"How did it go?" She asked.
"Well, I'm an assistant." I said. "But I'm an assistant to one of the best music video directors in the industry, and I'm excited to be able to learn from him." I said and she smiled.
"I'm so proud of you." She said and I cheesed.
"It feels so surreal. Like, I'm one step closer to achieving my dreams." I said.
"You've earned it." She said and I laughed.
The rest of our date went by perfectly. Clary and I were exploring this new relationship, and I just got a job that was in the right profession. Things were looking up, and I was ready for it.
Time Jump - Celine's Birthday – Six Months Later
Clary POV:
"Are you sure she's going to like it?" Jace asked me for the 100th time.
"She's going to love it Jace." I reassured him. "You might be my most improved student I've ever taught, and that picture looks great."
"I just want it to be perfect." He said. I parked outside of his mothers house and looked at him.
"And it will be." I said. "You painted her a picture Jace. She's going to be incredibly proud and overjoyed with so many other emotions." I said and he nodded. I leaned over and pressed my lips to his. "Now lets go." I said and he nodded.
We got out of the car and went to his house. We walked in and Celine and Stephen were sitting in the living room watching TV. Jace says his father takes off every year for her birthday, and I thought it was the most romantic thing.
"It's about time you two showed up." Celine said and I smiled. I leaned down and pressed my lips to her cheek.
"Sorry Celine. We hit traffic." I told her.
"Well you're here now. That's all that matters." She said and I nodded.
"Happy birthday mom." Jace said as he kissed her cheek.
"Thank you sweetie." Celine said.
"And in the spirit of birthdays, I have a present for you." Jace said.
"How many times do I have to tell you honey, you don't need to get me anything." She smiled and so did Jace.
"You're in luck, because I didn't purchase this for you." Jace said. "I painted it." He handed her the canvas backwards. Celine took it with her shaky hands and turned it around. It landed on her lap as her hands covered her mouth.
"You painted this?" She asked.
"With a little help from Clary." He said and I flicked him. "Okay. She did your eyes." He admitted. "I couldn't get them right for the life of me." He laughed.
"Eyes can be tricky." She said. "Oh Jace this is the best gift you could have ever given me." She cried and Jace went over and gave her a hug.
"I love you mom." He said and she smiled.
"I love you too Jace." She said and than Jace took his seat next to me. "So you two, how is house hunting going?" Celine asked.
"It's going." I said. "I didn't realize how hard it would be."
"It took Stephen and I 6 months to find this place, and than 3 weeks to agree on it." Celine said and we all laughed.
"Yea, but my lease is up at in a couple months, and I'd really only like to move my things once." I said truthfully and she nodded.
"I totally get that." Celine said.
"Plus we want one close enough to Alicante so Clary's commute isn't too bad." Jace added.
"You'll find something." Celine said. "I know you will." Her optimism was actually really encouraging and definitely needed.
"So, how are you two doing?" I asked.
"Oh you know, taking it one day at a time." Celine said. "I'm just more interested in you and Jace." She said and I couldn't help but smile. "I never thought I'd see the day where my son would be in such a serious relationship." She said and Jace reached his arm around my shoulders and pulled me into him.
"I was just waiting for the right one mom, and I found her." Jace said and he kissed my head.
"And you got a good one." Celine said.
"The best." Jace smiled proudly.
"So, any birthday plans for tonight?" I asked Celine.
"Not tonight." Celine said. "But Stephen is taking me on a trip later this week!" She said excitedly.
"Where?" I asked.
"My favorite city." Celine said. "Berlin."
"Sounds amazing." I said and she smiled brightly.
"I haven't been there in almost 15 years." Celine said. "I can't wait to be back."
"How long are you going for?" Jace asked. Celine looked at Stephen and he smiled.
"We'll be gone for a week and a half." He said and I nodded.
"Sounds amazing." I said and they both smiled.
We spent about 2 hours with them and then we needed to get going. Jace and I both had work tomorrow, and still needed to pack a few things. We wanted to pack all the unnecessary things first so that when we did find a place, we could move in as fast as possible.
We got into the car and Jace made his way to my place. Since Jace was so organized, packing his stuff was simple: me on the other hand, not so much. My messiness drive Jace crazy, but he was going to have to get used to it when we start living together. The music was playing and I was singing along lowly when my phone vibrated. I looked at it, and it was our real-estate agent saying that he had a house that he thinks would be perfect for us.
"I just got a text from our real estate agent, he says he thinks he has the perfect house." I told Jace.
"Really?" He asked and I nodded. "Tell him to set up a time where we can tour it." He said and I texted him back. A moment later, he answered.
"He says that he has time right now if we're interested." I said.
"I'm down with looking at it right now." Jace said so I texted him to let him know. When our real estate agent texted us back I couldn't help but laugh. "What is it?" Jace asked.
"It's in your parents neighborhood." I said and he laughed as well.
"We don't have to look if you don't want to be so close to my parents. I understand." He said and I just smiled.
"Let's look at the house, and than decide." I told him and he nodded. We turned around and went back to the address that I was texted. When we pulled up we got out and Jace was looking at the house in wonder. "What's wrong?" I asked.
"When I was a kid I always wondered what it would be like to live in this house." He said and I looked at it.
"Why is that?" I asked.
"It just always seemed like something out of a story to me. It's the biggest house in the neighborhood, and the people who lived here were rarely seen, so it was kinda mysterious." He explained.
"Well, let's go fulfill your childhood dream." I said and I took his hand. We walked into the house and I had to admit, it was beautiful.
"Glad you two could make it." Mark, our real estate agent, said. "I saw this place go on the market, and I knew it would be perfect for you two."
"We appreciate being kept in mind." I said.
"And my parents actually live 3 houses down." Jace said. "So I've been acquainted with the house for years."
"Let's take a look shall we?" He asked and we nodded.
We toured the entire house, and I fell in love with it. It was perfect, and when Jace and I wanted to start a family, there was enough room to expand as much as we wanted really. Plus, I liked that it was close to Jace's parents. Since Celine was sick, I knew Jace didn't want to live that far away from them, and I completely understood that, I would be the same way if it were my mom.
"I'll give you guys a couple minutes to think about it." Mark said before he left the room. I turned around to Jace and snaked my arms around his waist.
"Did it live up to your childhood expectations?" I asked and he laughed.
"No." He said and I looked at him with confusion. "My childhood self thought this place was filled with mythical creatures, and a swimming pool." He said and I laughed. "What do you think about the place?" He asked.
"I absolutely love it." I said confidently.
"Really?" He asked and I nodded. "And you're okay with it being so close to my parents?" He asked.
"I think that's an added bonus." I said truthfully.
"You do?" He asked and I nodded.
"I know how much you love living close to your mom so you can check up on her." I said. "If my mom was in the position your mom is in, I'd want to be close to her as well." I explained. "This house is perfect for us Jace. Close to your parents, close to my work, in our budget, big enough for us to expand our family. There isn't a single thing wrong with this house in my opinion."
"Did we just settle on a house?" Jace asked and I giggled.
"I think we did." I said and we made our way out to where Mark was.
"So, do we have a decision?" Mark asked.
"We're in." Jace said.
"Perfect." Mark said. "Let's just sign some papers, and this house will be all yours." He said and Jace and I followed him to the kitchen. I couldn't wait to have this house and make it our own.
Time Jump – Move In Day – Three Months Later
Jace POV:
We were just approved for buying our house, and Clary and I couldn't be more enthusiastic. Things were looking up for us, and the house wasn't the only big thing that's happened in our lives up until this point. I got promoted from assistant to what James calls his 'prodigy director' which means I can give him creative advice on music videos or other projects he's working on. I'm sure it's not a real title, but I was proud of it. I am working and giving my input into something that is going to be seen around the world. I was still an armature director, but with everything I'm learning from my job, I feel like I could become a director eventually.
Also, about a month ago Clary and I got engaged. We haven't even been together for a year yet, but the duration of our relationship didn't matter because we both knew we were going to be spending the rest of our lives together. Prolonging the inevitable was pointless. So when I got down on one knee, I didn't even finish asking the question before Clary answered. It was perfect, and Clary has been planning our wedding with every free time she had available. We both didn't want a big wedding, and that helped with the planning process immensely. Clary often spent that free time at my parents house with Celine, Jocelyn and Seelie getting every detail perfect. I couldn't wait for our wedding day. I couldn't wait for her to be Mrs. Herondale and start our future together.
Moving in actually went way more efficiently than I anticipated which was amazing, but I did organize everything so that it wouldn't be complete chaos, but organized chaos. The boxes were placed in their designated rooms, and the furniture was moved in yesterday (thanks to Mark for convincing the owner to give us a day in advance for that) and all Clary and I had to do was unpack and place everything in their rightful spots.
After all the boxes were in, and there was nothing else for the group of people to do, everyone headed to my parents house for a nice hot meal. Clary and I lingered for a moment I enjoy our first time in our new home. She walked up to me and wrapped her arms around my waist.
"You ready for this?" She asked and I couldn't help but smile.
"I get to go to sleep, and wake up next to you every single day and night?" I said. "I couldn't be more ready for this." I said and she laughed.
"I love you." She said and I leaned forward and pressed my lips to her.
"I love you too." I said.
"In exactly 4 months, we'll be married." She pointed out and I nodded. "In exactly 8 months, we'll be parents." She said and my eyes widened and my jaw dropped.
"You're pregnant?" I yelled and she laughed and nodded. "When did you find out?" I asked.
"Last week." She said. "When I was at your parents house, I felt incredibly nauseous and puked everywhere. I felt so bad but Celine was so understanding." She said. "Seelie brought up the possibility of me being pregnant, and my mom left to go pick up some pregnancy tests and low and behold, I was pregnant."
"So my mom knew?" I asked.
"Yea. She's been dying to tell you but I wanted to be the one to break the news." She said.
"So you'll be 5 months pregnant when we get married?" I asked.
"Yea." She said. "I hope you don't mind." She said hesitantly.
"You just told me you're having my baby." I said. "I wouldn't care if we went down to the courthouse right now and got married."
"You want too?" She asked. And I was taken aback because I was joking, but she looked incredibly serious.
"You're serious?" I asked.
"It's up to you." She said. "We have the ceremony planned out for 4 months, and it's just family, and a few close friends. I never wanted anything big and neither did you. All I need is you."
"Go grab a white dress, and meet me at my parents house in 5 minutes." I said and she nodded and ran upstairs, while I ran to my parents house. When I walked in everyone was gathered in the living room eating. "Clary and I have some news to share with everyone." I said and they all looked at me. "We're getting married."
"We already knew that." My dad said.
"No. Like right now. She's currently getting a dress, and we're going to the courthouse." I explained.
"Oh my god." Seelie shouted excitedly.
"Why so spontaneous?" Valentine asked.
"Because she's having my baby!" I shouted at the exact moment Clary walked in.
"You're pregnant?!" My dad, Valentine, and Jon all shouted at the same time while my mom, Jocelyn and Seelie were all bursting at the seams. I pulled Clary into my arms and kissed the top of her head.
"Surprise!"
Authors Note:
So, a lot of people requested one about Jace and Clary being YouTubers, and I was avoiding it becauseI didn't really know how to make it something that those requesting the idea would like, and when I originally started this story, I was planning on having it focus on YouTube a lot more, but it morphed into it's own thing, and I really like it, and think it's a great, and Clace filled one shot, and I really hope you all like it as well! Let me know what you think and leave a review! :)
