One Hundred and Ten Story:

Chef

Jace POV:

It was that time of the year again where I go back home and spend the next 6 months with my parents. When my father decided to expand the company over in America, I was the only one he trusted to run it, and at first I didn't want to leave. I loved England and I loved working for my father and being close to my family, and my friends, but the opportunity to run a company, to show my father that the business would be in good hands when he decided to retire was an opportunity that I couldn't pass up.

But I spent 6 months here to help my parents and my grandparents out. I still ran the company in New York, but I trusted my VP to act in my absence, and he was truly fantastic and one of my best friends. I trusted that he would keep everything in order while I was gone, and he hadn't disappointed me yet, so I always felt comfortable spending 6 months in England to catch up with my parents and old friends.

I just landed, and it was nearly dinnertime. I didn't tell my parents when my flight landed, so I was planning on surprising them during the meal. My mom would probably scream and than hit me for not telling her I was coming, but I loved surprising her because she just had the most genuine reactions, and they were too good to pass up.

I got out of the car and grabbed my stuff. Although we had a fully functioning staff that were paid to park my car and carry my luggage, I wasn't incapable, and I wasn't going to inconvenience them to grabbed a couple bags from my trunk. I made my way into the house where I left my luggage at the bottom of the stairs. I would deal with that later, I just wanted to see my family first.

I walked into the dinning room where they were all sitting. I opened the door and my mom saw me first and her eyes went wide. It took her a minute to realize that I was there before she got up and ran over to hug me.

"What are you doing here?" She asked and I laughed.

"It's the start of my 6 month stay at the Herondale Manor, don't tell me you forgot?" I said with a laugh.

"I didn't, you just normally tell us when you're coming so we can be ready." She said and I smiled.

"I wanted to surprise you. You know I can't resist your reactions." I said and she playfully slapped me. "How is everything?" I asked.

"Everything is great." My mom supposed. "Quite boring actually."

"Nothing is ever boring in the Herondale house." I laughed and she smiled.

"Things change." She said and I nodded. "Come, join us for dinner." She pulled out a chair and I sat down. "Clary dear!" My mom called, and I was confused because I've never heard that name before. The kitchen doors opened and out walked the most beautiful redhead I've ever seen.

"Yes Mrs. Herondale?" She asked.

"Can you please make a plate for our son?" She gestured towards me. I looked over and our eyes locked. Her emerald green eyes locked into mine and something in me flipped.

"Absolutely Mrs. Herondale." She said.

"How many times have I told you to call me Celine?" My mom laughed and so did Clary.

"I'll try my best." She said before disappearing into the kitchen.

"Who was that?" I asked once she was gone.

"That was Clary. Our new chef." My mom said.

"What happened to Abigail?" I asked.

"She had a baby a couple months ago, and wanted to focus on being a mom." She said. "Clary is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, and has 4 years of working in a professional kitchen under her belt." My mom said and I had to admit, I was impressed. "She applied for the job, and your father and I were so impressed we didn't even look at another applicant after her resume got to us. She's been here for almost 4 months now."

"She doesn't sound like she's from England." I said and my mom nodded.

"She's originally from America." She said.

"Where in America?" I asked.

"New York." My mom answered. "She wanted to be the best in the culinary field so she packed her bags and came here to got to Le Cordon Bleu, and as you see, she's excelled."

"Impressive." I said and in that moment Clary walked out of the kitchen with a plate of food. She placed it in front of me and I smiled. "Thank you."

"You're welcome. If you need anything else, I'll be in the kitchen." She said before disappearing again.

"I wonder how her family is handling her being across the ocean." I said and my mom shrugged.

"We don't talk about personal things." She said. "But I imagine it's the exact same way I feel about you being across the ocean." She smiled and I smiled back.

"Which is why I spend 6 months out of the year here." I said and she put her hand over mind and gave it a light squeeze. Coming home this time around was going to be much more enjoyable with Clary here. I've only spoken to her once, but I already knew that she was different, and I planned on spending these 6 months getting to know all about her.

Time Jump – Later That Night

Clary POV:

Since I was a live in chef, when I couldn't sleep, I went to the kitchen and made whatever desserts that I could. It was something that was always able to calm me down, even in the toughest of times, baking and cooking was always an escape and to this day, I always used to is a distresser, and it worked wonders.

I was in the middle of making brownies when I heard the kitchen door open. I turned around and there stood the man from earlier. I knew Celine and Stephen had a son, but I only saw some old photos of him. Seeing him in person was a whole different story. For one he was taller, and far more beautiful than the pictures show.

"Hi." I said and he smiled.

"Hi." He said back. "What are you doing awake at this hour?" He asked.

"Couldn't sleep." I said. "Baking normally tires me out plus I get a good snack out of it." I said and he laughed.

"What are you making tonight?" He asked.

"Brownies." I said.

"Sounds great." He said and I pushed the bowl over to him. "You're giving me the batter?" He asked and I nodded. "You know the way to my heart." He said and my hearted fluttered. I started to scrap the batter off the sides of the bowl with his finger, and every time he put his finger in his mouth to lick it off, something in me twisted and turned at the movement.

"What are you doing awake?" I finally asked.

"It's currently 6 pm back in New York, and my VP called with a problem and I couldn't go back to sleep. I thought maybe some tea or something would help." He said.

"You live in New York?" I asked a little surprised.

"I do. I run the office there." He said. "My mom tells me you're from New York." He said and I nod.

"I haven't been back there since I was 18." I said honestly.

"Why not?" He asked and I really didn't want to talk about it.

"I made a life for myself here, and New York really doesn't have anything for me anymore." I said trying to be vague.

"What about your family?" He asked and sighed.

"I don't have any family." I said and that same second the timer went off for the brownies. I grabbed the from the over and set them on the counter. I cut two brownies out and put them in a plate. I slid the one plate of to him and smiled. "I'm going to get to bed. It was nice meeting you….?" I questioned realizing I didn't remember his name.

"Jace." He said. "My parents call me Jonathan, but I never liked my first name." He said and I nodded.

"Goodnight Jace." I said before exiting the kitchen before he could ask any questions. He was going to be here for 6 months, and I had a feeling a lot was going to happen in the next 6 months.

Time Jump – Two Months Later

Jace POV:

Clary was a tough nut to crack. She was really guarded, and I didn't know why. It sounded like she was a little sad most of the time, especially when family was mentioned. I've been going down to the kitchen often to see if she was there. It was either a hit or miss, but the nights that she was there, we would sit there for hours talking about random things. But they weren't surface scratching topics. I didn't know that much about Clary if I was being completely honest but I wanted to change that.

Clary had Thursday nights off because it was date night for my parents and my grandparents. So I was going to talk to my mom and ask her if I was allowed to take Clary out. I'm 30 years old, but I didn't want to step on any toes or piss my parents off by doing something behind their backs, and I also wanted to get some advice about Clary. She's known her longer than I have, and I think getting her opinion would be helpful. I knocked on her office door and I heard a faint come in. I opened the door and my mom smiled at me.

"What can I do for you?" She asked.

"I want to ask you something but I don't want you to freak out." I said as I took a seat.

"Oh god." She said and I laughed.

"It's nothing bad." I promised her. "It's just, tonight is Thursday, and it's Clary's night off, and I was wondering if I could take her out."

"On a date?" She questioned.

"Yes." I said truthfully.

"You two have been getting close haven't you?" She asked.

"We have, but it's still at the surface level." I explained. "Clary is very good at not divulging any personal information about herself." I said. "I don't even know her favorite color."

"Why did you ask for my permission? You're an adult and so is Clary." My mom said.

"I guess I just didn't want to step on you or dads toes. She is your employee after all." I said and she nodded.

"I don't have a problem with it." She said and I smiled. "But if she starts slacking on her work, than we have a problem."

"Do you really think Clary is the type of person to let her work suffer?" I asked and my mom laughed.

"No. She's very good at her job." She said and I smiled and nodded.

"Thanks mom." I said.

"Is there anything else?" She asked.

"I was just wondering. Do you know anything about Clary?" I asked. "Like personally."

"Not really sweetheart." She said honestly. "We don't really spend time getting to know each other. She's a lovely girl, but I know what her resume told me."

"I was just curious." I said as I stood. "Thanks mom."

"Have a good time tonight." She said.

"You too." I said before closing the door behind me. Now all I had to do was ask Clary.

Clary POV:

Since it was my night off, I was spending my time in the library reading. A huge up side with being a personal chef for a wealthy family was the library. I mean, not every wealthy family has a library, but the Herondale's did, and it was spectacular. I mean, there was every book you could ever dream about here, and I spent every free moment I had in here reading whatever I could find.

When I heard the door open I didn't think anything of it. Some of the staff use this place as a quiet get away, and I didn't blame them since I did the same thing. But what I wasn't expecting was Jace to sit down next to me. I closed my book and sat up a little straighter.

"What do I owe this pleasure?" I asked and he smiled.

"I'm taking you out tonight." He said and my eyes widened.

"Why?" I asked.

"It's your night off, and I thought you could use a little fun." He said and I thought about it for a moment.

"I guess I'm a little over due on having fun." I admitted and he smiled.

"Great." He stood up and smiled. "Be ready by 5."

"What should I wear?" I asked.

"Something casual." He said and I nodded. "I'll see you later." I nodded and he disappeared from the library. I didn't know what to expect, but I was kind of excited.

Time Jump – Later That Night

Jace POV:

I was making my way up to Clary's room to get her for the date tonight. It's been a little while since I've actually planned a date for anyone, but I was pretty confident that she was going to enjoy herself, and hopefully let some of those walls down, and I could finally get to know the real her. I got to her door and knocked, and a few moments later the door opened revealing Clary.

"Am I dressed appropriately?" She asked and I smiled.

"You look great." I said. "So are you ready for tonight?" I asked as we made our way downstairs.

"I'm a little nervous to tell you the truth." She said.

"Why is that?" I pondered.

"I'm not the biggest fans of surprises, and it's been a while since I've done anything but work." She admitted.

"Why is that?" I probed, hoping for a glimpse into her life.

"Being a chef, you have to work crazy hours. Before I got the job for your family, I was lucky if I had enough time to shower let along go out and enjoy myself." She laughed.

"Well tonight is all about having fun and letting go." I said as I opened the car door for her. I got into the drivers side, and I started us on to our destination.

When we finally pulled up to the park where I set everything up earlier today. She got out of the car, and I reached for her hand to guide her in the right direction, and it was crazy how her small hand, fit so perfectly in my large one. When we got to the picnic I heard her laugh a little. I turned towards her and she had the biggest smile on her face.

"When did you have the time to set all this up?" She asked as we took our seats.

"After I asked you I got everything I needed ready." I said.

"You mean when you told me." She said. "There wasn't a question about it." I laughed and so did she.

"I guess I should have asked. Given you a choice if you wanted to come or not." I admitted.

"I would have said yes anyway." She told me and I couldn't help but smile.

"Now, I'm no chef." I said as I winked at her, which caused her to blush. "But I make a mean grilled cheese." I handed her the sandwich. "So, what made you want to become a chef?" I asked.

"I was always doing the cooking in the house when I was young." She said with a sigh. "My parents, well, lets just say they weren't really involved with my life. If I wanted to eat, I had to cook, if I wanted to get somewhere I had to walk, if I wanted to something from them I had to wait for the perfect moment in order to get it." She explained.

"And when was that perfect moment?" I asked hesitantly.

"Normally after they got high." She said and my heart broke for her. "I remember for my 8th birthday I really wanted to have a sleepover with my friends, and I knew I couldn't have it at my house, so I asked if I could spend the night with my friend." She said. "Her mom offered her house for my sleepover knowing that my parents weren't really attentive." She explained. "So I waited until my mom shot up with heroin, and I waited until my dad snorted the cocaine off the table and I asked. Once they said yes, I grabbed my things and walked to my friends house for my own sleepover." She said with a laugh, but there was no amusement in it whatsoever.

"I can't even fathom that." I said honestly. "Was it always like that?" I asked.

"That's all I knew." She said. "I knew they tried to get clean when I was little, but I was 4 when they just fell off the wagon again. They left me in a Target once because they were shopping while high, and totally forgot they had a kid."

"That's insane." I said.

"When I finally left to attend culinary school, I wanted to be as far away as possible." She admitted. "I just wanted to be independent without them looming over my head." She sighed. "Without the possibility of me walking in on their corpse or while they were getting high. Throughout high school I always thought when I was called down to the office that I was going to be informed that they overdosed or something."

"That's no way to live." I said and she nodded.

"But it was all I ever knew." She said.

"Have you talked to them recently?" I asked and a sad smiled appeared on her lips.

"My dad is in jail, has been for the past 8 years, and my mom overdosed a little over 9 years ago and died." She said and my heart truly went out to this girl. "It was only a matter of time really."

"If it's not too personal, why is your father in jail?" I asked.

"My mom died because the heroin she was sold was a bad batch. My father went after their dealer and killed him." She said and my jaw dropped. "He's doing a life sentence without the possibility of parole."

"Damn." I said and she nodded.

"Yea. You can imagine the phone call I got." She said. "I was in my first year of culinary school and I was just delivered punch after punch."

"I'm so sorry Clary." I said and she shrugged.

"It was a long time ago." She said. "I think last year I finally put it to rest. I'm 28 years old. I can't carry around all that guilt and resentment forever." I nodded because I just couldn't believe everything she's been through. "So, what about you?" She asked.

"What about me?" I asked and she laughed.

"What was life growing up like for you?" She enquired.

"Pretty luxurious if I'm being completely honest." I said and she laughed. "I spent a lot of time with my parents and my grandparents. I went to boarding school, and played any sport I wanted too. I spent the summers at our vacation home in Italy, and I spent the holidays in our Vacation home in Iceland." I said and her jaw was on the ground. "I got into Oxford, and I took over the business for my father in America. I've been extremely lucky in life, and I have no complaints."

"Sounds incredible." She said with amazement in her voice.

"I had an amazing childhood, and I can't wait until the day I get to do the same for my kids." I honestly said.

"You think about children often?" She asked.

"Pretty often." I admitted. "I'm 30 years old. I'm not getting any younger, and I have everything, but a partner, and a family of my own. I always knew I wanted one, but finding the right woman to start that with has been difficult."

"Having trouble weeding out the gold diggers?" She laughed and I smiled.

"How did you know?" I said mockingly.

"I knew a few in my day." She said and I laughed. "Don't worry. The right one is out there." She said and I smiled.

"What about you? Any special someone?" I asked.

"Nope. I've been so focused on work that I haven't really had the time. But I don't know if I want kids. I think I'd be a terrible mother." She said.

"Why is that?" I questioned.

"Just the way I grew up. I don't really know what a real mother is, let alone how to be one. Just doesn't seem like the type of thing I'd be good at." She said and I nodded. As if I planned it, a soccer ball came rolling right towards us, followed by a little boy who couldn't be older than 5. Clary picked it up and smiled at the little boy. "You've got a good foot on you." She said and the boy smiled.

"I want to be the next David Beckham!" She said proudly.

"That's a tall order." Clary said. "Are you up for the challenge?" She questioned and he stood up a little taller.

"Yes ma'am." He said and Clary laughed as she handed him the ball.

"Reach for the stars kid." She said and he grabbed the ball and smiled.

"Thanks!" He said before running off. She looked back at me, and I guess I was staring because she blushed.

"What?" She asked.

"I think you're going to be an amazing mother." I said honestly.

"Why?" She asked.

"The way you just were with that little boy. Sometimes maternal instincts are more about nature, not nurture. You may have had a shitty mom, but that doesn't mean you're going to be a shitty mom." I told her and she nodded.

"I've got time I guess." She said. "It's not like I've hit my peak yet."

"That's one way to look at it." I said.

"What's another way?" She asked.

"Well, do you want to be 50 years old with a 14 year old kid." I said and she laughed.

"That does sound a little bit weird." She admitted and I smiled. "Guess I'll just have to start looking for the right guy."

"One day." I said and she nodded along.

The rest of our picnic was pretty perfect. She was willing to open up a lot more when it was just us and I liked that. I like being around Clary, and getting to know her. I may only be here for 4 more months, but I was going to make them count when it came to Clary.

After the picnic, we gathered all out things and headed back towards the car. We piled everything in the back and headed back towards the Herondale Manson. When we got back, we got everything out of the car and headed towards the kitchen so that we could put everything away. It was silent between us, but we didn't need conversation. Everything with Clary was natural, and the silence wasn't deafening, but a warm and homey feeling.

"So." I finally said after we put the last of the dishes in the dishwasher. "How about we make this a tradition." I said as she looked in my direction. "Every Thursday we do something fun. It doesn't matter what it is, as long as it's something."

"I'd really like that." She said and I smiled.

"Great. Cause I'm already thinking about next week." I said animatedly.

"Next Thursday isn't going to work." She said after a moment.

"Why not?" I questioned.

"Your parents are having that huge party on Friday evening, and Thursday night we have this huge staff meeting, plus the kitchen staff is putting together the last minute touches to the menu. I'll be busy all day." She explained.

"I totally forgot about that party." I said and she laughed.

"But the Thursday after that I'm free." She said and I smiled.

"Than the Thursday after that something will be planned." I said and she smiled.

"I had a lovely night Jace, but I'm exhausted." She admitted and I laughed.

"I'll see you around Clary." I said and she smiled before disappearing out of the kitchen. I dreaded these parties that my parents threw, because they always invited my ex, and I really didn't want to see her this year, especially while Clary was around.

Time Jump – Night of Party

Clary POV:

I have been incredibly busy this whole week, and I couldn't wait to get to sleep and have Saturday off. Thankfully Celine knew how much work went into this night that she gave me the day off, and I was really thankful for that. She was truly the best boss I could ever ask for, and I was happy every single day that I applied for this position.

The night was in full swing and I was running around the kitchen like a mad woman. There were dishes coming back, there were specialty dishes that Celine wasn't aware of that had to be made, there were people on diets who needed less butter, and those who were allergic that needed things cooked separately. The night was crazy, and I was constantly on my toes.

By the time 6:45 rolled around, things got a little less chaotic, but things were still moving quiet fast. I didn't realize how long it would take these guests to eat, but than again, it was like a 7 course meal, so I was prepared for them to be eating until 8. I finally got a moment to myself as I chopped but the fresh mangos to put in with the dessert when I heard the kitchen door open. I looked up and there stood Jace.

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

"I haven't seen you all week, not even for out midnight snacks.." He said. And I laughed.

"I know. This week has been hectic. Celine changed the menu last minute, and that threw everything off." I said.

"Understandable. Plus, my ex is out there and I needed to get away." He added and I nodded.

"Why is she here?" I asked without thinking.

"My mom and her mom are in the same debutante society. They actually went through it together when they were young and still remain on the board. Unfortunately her daughter is like her shadow and goes wherever she goes." He explained.

"Have you told your mom? That it bothers you?" I asked.

"No, because I know my mom and her mom were friends long before we came into the picture. Plus, us dating happened in our teens, and our parents thought it would be the right move, but it just didn't work. We were polar opposites that just didn't click." He said. I nodded as I sliced through the mango and held up a slice.

"Mango?" I offered and he laughed.

"My favorite." He took it and popped it into his mouth and I couldn't help but laugh. There was something so refreshing about his aura, and I enjoyed being in it with him.

Kaelie POV:

This dinner was always super boring, but I never passed on an opportunity to see Jace and make him mine once again. We were both older now, and we knew what we wanted, and I wanted Jace.

I got up and started making my way to the bathroom when I heard laughing. I saw the door to the kitchen slightly ajar and I looked in to see Jace laughing with the cook. She was short, and pale, and childlike, but Jace was smiling like I've never seen him smile before, and I couldn't help but wonder why he was looking at her like that when he had me.

When he turned around I hid behind a plant so that he wouldn't see me. I wanted to get to know more about what was going on between the two of them but I couldn't ask Jace. He seemed to be ignoring me, so my next best option was her. I made my way back to my seat and grabbed my plate of food and headed towards the kitchen.

Clary POV:

I had just finished slicing the mango when I heard the kitchen door open again. I looked up and in walked this bombshell of a girl. Tall, blonde hair, blue eyes, curves in all the right places. She looked like royalty, but than again, these were rather elite people.

"What can I do for you?" I asked with a smile.

"My chicken isn't cook enough, and I was wondering if you could put it back on for a couple more minutes." She said with a fake voice that I could spot a mile away.

"Of course." I said as I grabbed her plate. I took the chicken off it, and put it back in the oven for a few more minutes. It was quiet for a moment before she spoke.

"So." She started. "You and Jace, how long as that been going on for?" She asked and I looked at her with surprise.

"There is no thing between Jace and I." I said, although I had to admit, there could potentially be something there, but admitting that out loud was terrifying.

"Good." She said. I looked up and she narrowed her eyes at me. "Because Jace and I belong together and I don't need the kitchen help getting in my way." She said in a menacing voice. "So stay the hell out of my way shortcake and get a guy who is on your level. Maybe a dishwasher, or a garbage collector." She said and the timer dinged. I grabbed her chicken out of the oven and put it on her plate.

"Have a good evening." I said as I handed it back to her and she smiled.

"Oh I will." She winked and walked, or should I say sashayed out of the kitchen.

For the rest of the night I couldn't get what she said out of my head. Jace was above me, and so far out of my league. But he was hanging out with me, and taking me on picnics, and cooking for me. If there wasn't something there on his side, why would he do all that for me?

When the kitchen was finally clean, I made my way up to my room, but I couldn't find the energy to sleep. So after my shower, I grabbed my favorite blanket and headed towards the library. Reading was always a great way to tire my eyes out, and I think that was exactly what I needed after today.

I grabbed a book that I had been dying to read, I curled up in one of the chairs and started reading. I was so lost in the book, that I didn't even notice that my eyes were dropping from the sheer heaviness of sleep trying to capture me. Before I knew it, I was drifting off into a dark slumber, where images of Jace filled my dreams. And a world where I was his equal, and not his servant engrossed me and for a moment, I wished that it was real.

Jace POV:

My grandmother had asked me to get her a book from the library at breakfast so I was walking through the hallways with the most ridiculous smile on my face. I don't know why, but whenever I thought of Clary, the smile automatically appeared. Even my mom commented on it this morning. But I just couldn't help it, she made me happy. Happier than anything ever has before.

I walked into the library and I was greeted with a surprising sight, but an adorable all the same. Clary was curled up on a chair with a book in her hand, peacefully sleeping. I smiled to myself as I made my way over to her to wake her up. I kneeled beside her and before disturbing her sleep, I drank in her appearance. She was the most captivating woman I've ever met. She was sweet, and down to earth, and beautiful. But she always was rather funny, and knew how to hold her own. She was truly everything all rolled into one, and it was an honor to get to know her.

I placed my hand on her leg and gently gave her a light shake. She stirred a little but not enough to wake her up. I did it again, but this time a little harder and I saw her eyes flutter. She turned her head, and opened her eyes, and those emerald greens locked with mine.

"Hi." She said and I laughed.

"Hi yourself." I said. "What are you doing in here?" I asked as she sat up a little.

"I couldn't sleep last night, even thought I was dead tired, so I thought I'd ware my eyes out by reading, and I was too far gone to make it back to my room." She said.

"So it's my understanding that my mom gave you the day off." I said and she nodded. "I was thinking we could do something today. Anything you want that you've never got the chance to experience before." I offered. "What do you say?"

"I don't know Jace." She said and I was confused. "I think we should stop this…." She paused trying to look for the right word to say. "This confusing friendship before it gets out of hand."

"Clary, what are you talking about?" I asked curiously.

"I'm the chef Jace." She said. "You're the son. We should stay in our roles." She explained as she got off the chair.

"Clary, what's going on? Last week you were all in for having fun and spending time together." I pointed out.

"Things change Jace." She said. "If you'll excuse me, I have to go." And just like that she slipped out of the library, and I was standing there confused. What things had changed?

Time Jump – Later That Day

Jace POV:

I was outside working on my car, when I heard someone pull up in the driveway. I looked up and I saw a familiar red convertible and I internally groaned. Kaelie stepped out of the car and walked towards me with the stupid grin she always had.

"Jacey." She said and I groaned.

"You know I hate it when you call me that." I said and she just ignored it.

"We hardly got to spend any time together last night." She said with sadness in her whiney voice.

"There is a reason for that." I said. "You need to get over this delusion that we're getting back together."

"But Jacey…."

"Enough Kaelie." I cut her off. "I'm 30 years old. We dated when we were both 16. If I thought we were supposed to end up together, we would have been together already."

"So you settle for the kitchen help?" She snapped as she crossed her arms over her clearly paid for chest. "I saw you last night. Laughing and engaging with the cook. I mean seriously Jace, she's so beneath you." She continued and that's when it clicked. That's what Clary was talking about.

"What did you do Kaelie?" I asked.

"I just told her the truth." She said. "That we were meant to be and that she should stick to her own kind. She's clearly worming her way into your life. Becoming the cook was just her ploy."

"You know nothing about her." I hissed. "And I'd rather be with someone who I actually genuinely like, putting their 'status' aside, before I ever got back with you." I said and her jaw dropped. "I don't know what you are trying to accomplish here Kaelie, but it doesn't matter if you suddenly changed over night to a decent human being, we're never going to have a future together."

"But Jacey…."

"Leave Kaelie." I said before she could continue. "Just leave and please leave me alone." She huffed before stomping back to her car like a little kid throwing a tantrum before speeding out of the driveway. I shook my head before getting back to working on my car. It needed a distraction, and working on my car was always one of the better options.

Time Jump – Four Months Later

Jace POV:

Clary was doing her best at avoiding me, and no matter what I did, she didn't give me the chance to explain what happened. For a week I just sat in the kitchen at midnight hoping that she would come down, but every night I would leave wondering what I could possibly do to try and make her listen to me.

But after about 2 months I realized that I just needed to give her the space that she wanted, and not push her into an awkward position. After all, she is my parents employee, and the last thing she needed was me barging into her life. So I stopped, and we had the occasional conversation in passing, but nothing more. It sucked, but I could tell it was making her happy, and that's all that mattered.

So, here I am, leaving to go back to America, and I couldn't help but feel a little bit of a void thinking about leaving Clary behind. She was the only one who I've felt this strong of a connection too, and not being in the same house, hell even the same country was going to be a lot harder than I anticipated.

"Call us when you get home safely." My mom said as she hugged me.

"Always mom." I said and she let go and smiled at me.

"Thank you for spending 6 months with us." She said and I laughed.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world mom." I said to her and she leaned up and kissed my cheek.

"Safe travels." She said and I got in my car and headed towards the airport. I took one last look in the review mirror when a flash of red caught my eye. I pried my eyes away from the image of what I was leaving behind as I pulled out of my parents home.

Clary POV:

As I watched Jace's car leave, I couldn't help but feel a type of emptiness that I've never felt before. Not even when my parents died did I feel this type of way. I know I've been avoiding him for the past 4 months, but it was just easier that way. I didn't want to get attached, and I knew if we continued to get to know each other, that I would. But I guess it didn't matter, since I knew I was going to miss him so much already and he just pulled out of the driveway.

"Crazy thing love is." Celine said and I looked at her.

"Pardon me Mrs. Herondale?" I asked and she smiled at me.

"My son." She said. "I've never seen him this way before. He's always ready to leave after the 6 months he spends here." She said. "But this time, I sensed he was hesitant. I can only assume that's because of you."

"Why would you think that?" I asked nervously.

"You're the only new variable in this house." She said. "It doesn't take a genius to figure that out. Plus I know my son." She said and I honestly didn't know how to respond to that.

"I should get back to the kitchen." I said as I started walking away.

"Don't throw it away." She said before I went into the house. I turned around and looked at her. "Don't throw away the friendship you formed with my son. If that's all it's ever going to be, don't throw it away. He's a good person to have in your corner." She said and I nodded before leaving. Now I was even more confused than I was before, and I didn't know what to do about it.

Time Jump – Christmas

Jace POV:

I was going home for Christmas like I did every year, but this time it was different. I was going to see Clary for the first time in 2 months, and I was actually really nervous about that. I haven't been able to get her out of my head, and whenever I called my mom, she always started talking about her. I knew she was doing it for me, but hearing about her just made me miss her even more.

I got out of the car when I got to my parents house and I couldn't help but smile at being home. Even though I've been living in New York for so long, this will always be my home, and I'll always come back here to feel that sense of home. I grabbed my things and headed inside. Everything was quiet, just like it always was during the holiday season. It didn't start getting busy until Christmas Eve, so I was going to enjoy the peace and quiet while I still could.

I placed my bags down at the bottom of the stairs and decided that I was going to check the kitchen first. It was late, and I knew that there was a possibility that Clary would be there getting something to drink or eat. I got to the door, took a deep breath before opening in, and sure enough, there stood Clary. She jumped a little at the sound, but when she turned around she gave me a small smile.

"Jace, I thought your plane was landing tomorrow." She said astonished to see me.

"I got an earlier flight." I said and she nodded.

"How have you been?" She asked.

"I've been okay." I said honestly. "What about you?"

"Been busy working. Your mother likes to throw a lot of parties." She said and I couldn't help but laugh.

"That she does." I admitted. There was a silence that stretched on longer than I would have liked. I decided to just bit the bullet and jump in the deep end. I made my way over to her and her eyes didn't leave mine the entire time. When the tips of our toes were touching, she was looking up at me and I was looking down at her. I don't know how long we were gazing into each others eyes until I went for it. I slammed my lips to her and took hold of her face as I just let all of my emotions flow. I knew that I had stunned her, but the minute I felt her fingers weave their way into my hair, there was no stopping this. I may have just made things more complicated, but I didn't care. She was what I needed, what I wanted, and I'd do anything to keep her in my life.

When we finally broke apart, she looked surprised. Neither of spoke, but that had more to do with her collecting her thoughts, and me basking in the moment of kissing this woman who I have falling in love with in the 8 months that I've known her.

"What was that?" She finally said.

"That was me, taking a chance." I told her honestly.

"On?" She asked.

"Us." I said and her jaw dropped. "I shouldn't have left in October with things so fuzzy between us." I admitted. "You pulled away, and I know why. Kaelie spoke to you." I said and her hung her head.

"It doesn't matter Jace." She said. "She was right. I'm just the help."

"Kaelie is never right. About anything." I said and she laughed. "She's been trying to get us back together since I broke up her with when we were 16." I admitted. "She's one of the many reasons I'm always so glad to leave after the 6 months because than I don't have to see her anymore. She has an annoying habit of showing up wherever I am."

"Doesn't change the fact that I'm a cook, and you're practically royalty." She said.

"Put everything aside. Your job, my status. Just imagine if we were two people who met on the street, or in a coffee shop, or on a train. Would you take a chance at seeing where this went?" I asked and I saw her thinking.

"Probably." She said.

"What is holding you back Clary?" I asked honestly.

"You're going to laugh at me." She nearly whispered.

"I would never laugh at you." I said wholeheartedly.

"I've never had a boyfriend." She said. "I'm a 28 year old virgin who up until 10 minutes ago never kissed a guy. I don't know the first thing about dating or relationships."

"We'll figure it out as we go." I said. "It's not that complicated if the two people are willing to work at it."

"But we live in 2 different countries." She said. "And I know you spend 6 months of the year here, but that's a lot of strain on a relationship, especially a new one."

"Come back to America with me." I blurted out before I could stop myself.

"What?" She asked as her jaw was practically on the floor.

"Come back to New York with me. We can figure I all out, and if after the 6 months you want to come back here, I won't stop you." I said.

"But my job…."

"Clary, my parents get hundreds of applicants every time they have a job open up. They can find another chef, I can't however find another you." I said honestly. "If you don't think you can do it, I'll back away right now, and we can be friends. I'm not going to push you into anything you aren't comfortable with." I said and she just stood there. I stared to back away, taking her silence as her answer until I felt her grip tight onto the sleeve of my shirt.

"What am I going to tell your mother?" She finally said and I got the most ridiculous smile on my face.

"We tell her the truth." I said. "She'll understand."

"Are you sure?" She asked. "I'm quitting and running away with her son." She said and I couldn't help but laugh.

"I'm positive. She'll be thrilled." I said and she took a deep breath.

"Okay." She said. "This is one hell of a risk, but I'm willing to take it." She said and I pulled her into a hug, and feeling her melt against me was something that I would never get tired of. "I need to find a place to stay." She said once we broke apart.

"I can help with that." I said. "My VP's husband is in real estate."

"I can't believe I'm doing this." She said and I laughed.

"Just say the word, and if you want to come back here, you can." I said and she nodded. That moment, the kitchen door opened and in walked my mom.

"Jace, I thought your plane was landing tomorrow." She said as she walked over and hugged me.

"I got an earlier flight." I said. "I actually have something to tell you." I said when we broke apart.

"What's on your mind?" She asked.

"I'm stealing your chef." I said and she looked at Clary.

"But you're an excellent cook." She said and Clary looked at me.

"You told me you weren't a chef." Clary said and I laughed.

"I'm not a chef, I do know how to cook though." I said and she playfully slapped my chest. "I'm not stealing her to have her cook for me. I'm stealing her to explore our relationship." I said and my moms eyes lit up.

"Really?" She asked.

"Really." I said. "After I left in October, I realized that there was something missing, and I knew it was Clary, but a long distance relationship would put a strain on any relationship, especially a new one. So Clary is going to come to New York and we're going to figure this thing out."

"Oh. That's wonderful." My mom said.

"You're okay with me leaving?" Clary asked my mom.

"Oh sweetie, absolutely." She said as she took Clary's hands in hers. "This is so exciting. We'll ship your stuff back to his place tomorrow and than we can have a wonderful Christmas together."

"I can still work through the holiday." Clary said and my mom laughed.

"Nonsense. I'll get the back up chef. He'll be thrilled." She said and Clary laughed.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed working for you Mrs. Herondale." Clary said.

"You can call me Celine dear. You are after all my sons girlfriend." She said and I could tell that caught Clary off guard. "What? Too soon for that?" My mom asked.

"I think it's just shocking considering we just talked about it 15 minutes ago." I pointed out.

"She's moving to New York to be with you. I think the word girlfriend is very suitable for this situation." My mom said and I nodded.

"Very true." I said and she smiled.

"Well, I came down to get some water. But you two should get some sleep. I'll see you in the morning." My mom said and she grabbed a glass before heading back to bed. I turned towards Clary and smiled.

"May I walk you to your room?" I offered my hand and she smiled.

"Of course." She said as she gave me her hand. We walked up to her room in silence but an extremely comfortable one. When we got to her door we lingered for a moment. I bent forward and pressed my lips to hers.

"Goodnight Clary." I said and she smiled.

"Goodnight Jace." She said before heading into her room. I walked to mine with a grin on my face. I was going to enjoy exploring this relationship with Clary.

Time Jump – One Year Later

Clary POV:

"Jace, our flight leaves at 5. We need to leave right now!" I yelled down the hallway. He always took longer than me to get ready, and I just didn't understand it.

"I'm coming!" He called back. I grabbed my things and got my coat on. We were headed back to England for Christmas. It maybe took Jace and I 7 months before we decided to move in together, and although it was quick, our relationship was incredibly solid and it just made sense.

After I moved back to America, I realized that I needed a job, but I didn't want to work in a kitchen again, the long hours just weren't appealing to me, and there weren't many jobs for private chefs during that time, so Jace offered to help me out, which I hated so on Sunday's I would make him dinner as a thank you. But not having a job actually gave me time to pursue another passion of mine. I wrote a cookbook. I always wanted to do it, but never had the time, and Jace was so supportive of it, and that meant the world to me.

"Alright, I'm ready." Jace said and I laughed.

We got in the car and headed towards the airport. Now we haven't been back to England in 4 months probably, and we had a huge surprise for Celine and Stephen. I was currently 5 months pregnant, and very big. Which isn't surprising when you are carrying multiples. To say we were shocked when we found out would be an understatement, but Jace and I couldn't be more thrilled about the news. Sure being married and together for more than a year would probably been a better way to do this, but Jace and I were in love, and so incredibly ready to start this family.

The flight was long, but we knew that. But it was totally different being pregnant, but thankfully Jace was rich enough to have his own plane, so I got to lay down and relax the whole flight, which was much needed.

We got to the house pretty late, and I was exhausted. Nobody was awake since I found out Jace loves coming home at night so he can just crash right away and have a nice family reunion on a good nights sleep, and it made complete sense to me because I couldn't imagine mingling after that flight. We got inside, upstairs, in his room, and I crashed. I got changed and curled into his bed. I vaguely remember Jace pressing his lips to my forehead but than I was out.

Jace POV:

The next morning I decided to just let Clary sleep. I knew being pregnant was taking all the wind out of her sails, so I always just let her sleep whenever she was peaceful. She had such a hard time sleeping the first trimester, so I just let her go now. I made my way downstairs and saw my parents and my grandparents at the table eating breakfast. I took my seat and my mom smiled.

"Where is Clary?" She asked.

"Sleeping. The flight really tired her out, so I'm just letting her catch up on all her sleep." I said and she nodded. I was brought a plate of food and we started talking. I was having a conversation with my dad when I heard something shatter. I looked over and my mom was wide eyed and her glass was on the ground. I followed her eyes and saw her staring at Clary. I stood up and made my way over to her and gave her a kiss. "Morning.

"Good morning." She said. I walked her over to her chair and pulled it out.

"Oh my god." My mom finally said. "You're pregnant."

"I'm pregnant." Clary said with a slight laugh. "With twins." She added.

"Oh my god." My mom said. "How far along are you?"

"5 months." Clary said. "I'm due April 11th."

"Oh my god." My mom said yet again. "I'm going to be a grandmother." She yelled and we all laughed. "This is so exciting."

"For you, I'm freaking out." I said honestly and she smiled.

"You're going to be a great father." My mom said. "I know it." Clary reached her hand out and grabbed mine.

"She's right." She said and I kissed the back of her hand. As long as she believed in me, I knew that I could do it, and I was excited to welcome them into this world and start giving them anything and everything they wanted.

Time Jump – Later That Day

Clary POV:

Jace and I were out and a bout browsing the book store for a book his grandmother wanted but they didn't have in their library, which I thought was shocking, but I missed the town, so I was all about it, plus it was always good to take some nice refreshing walks.

I was browsing one side of the bookstore, while Jace was on the other when I heard that annoying voice.

"Jacey." She said and I rolled my eyes. "Fancy running into you here." She said and I made my way over to them.

"It's fancy seeing you here, considering you hate reading." Jace said and I smiled at his clear disgust with her.

"Oh you know, trying to expand my mind." She said and at that moment I walked over to Jace and put my arm around his arm. She looked at me and was clearly surprised to see me pregnant. "I see you stuck with the kitchen help. And she is now carrying your offspring." She gestured and my hand went protectively over our children. "Shame really, they could inherit that peasant look she's got going on."

"I'm not a peasant." I said and she laughed.

"Having access to his money doesn't make you rich honey." She sneered and I wanted to deck her, I honestly did, but than I saw what she was holding and I smirked.

"I make my own money thank you very much." I said.

"Washing dishes doesn't take a lot of skill." She said and I laughed.

"No, but writing a book does." I said and her eyes widened slightly. "In fact, you're holding it right now." I said and she looked at the book in her hand before dropping it on the ground.

"I will never spend my money on something you wrote. I might actually get stupider." She said and I laughed.

"Not possible honey." I said and she snarled at me.

"Have fun with your freak children." She said before stomping out of the bookstore.

"Lovely girl." I said and Jace laughed.

"Come on, I found the book." He said as he held it up.

"Hold on." I said. I reached down and grabbed the cookbook and smiled at it. I placed it neatly back on the shelf and followed Jace. We were quiet for a little until halfway home he started talking.

"It's a shame, she'll never have the opportunity to taste the dish you named after her." He said and I couldn't help but laugh. When writing my cookbook, I was trying to find traditional recipes that I could add a twist to, and when I started researching, I found this one and it just made me think of her, and I decided to dedicate it to her, and her lovely personality.

The Wicked Bitch: A twist on the traditional Korean dish kimchi.

And I'll tell you right now, it takes a special person to enjoy that dish, just like I assume it's going to take a special person to deal with Kaelie. She is one wicked bitch through and through.

Authors Note:

Wow. I have no excuse for taking so long to update, accept that I am seriously lacking in motivation so they might take me some time to get through. I am in the middle of another one right now, but I have no idea when I'll get to finishing it, but as long as you're all patient with me, we'll get through this!

This one shot was requested by Ally, and I'm really glad you requested this because it was one I haven't written about and I love those! I hope that I did it justice, and I hope you're happy with it! Let me know what you think and leave a review! :)

Also, I'm thinking about writing a chapter story about Alec and Magnus. I have no idea when I'd even start it, but I've had a few people say that it would be cool if I did, and I recently came up with a plot that I think would be really cool to write, and I'm pretty excited about it, but I would love your feedback as well! So if you lovely readers could help me with seeing if it would be something you'd like to read, that would be great! Alright, let me know what you think about this one shot, and my potential story idea! :)