One Hundred and Fourteen Story:
Blind
Clary POV:
Going blind at 15 wasn't the easiest thing in the world to handle: especially for a teenager. I had all these plans, and in one visit to the doctor, they were all gone. I wanted to go to college and be an artist, but without eyes, I'm not much use to the art community. I struggled with depression for a long time because of my eye sight, or lack there of, and high school was pretty bleak for me.
When I got to college, it started to get a little easier. Especially after I joined a blind support group, BSG. A lot of them had similar situations to mine, and some of them have been blind since birth, but having them around, and having them there to lean on was something that I needed more than I thought I did. It definitely made things easier, but the depression was still there. Not being able to see the children playing on the playground when I could so clearly hear them, or not being able to just sit and sketch something out of nothing. Those were the things I missed the most. Seeing wasn't everything, I know I can live without it, I have been for almost 15 years, but it's the little moments I used to take for granted that I miss the most.
But with the help of the BSG, I started a braille club at my college, and started teaching other kids how to read it, and how to deal with others who are blind just in case. It might not be something they can use in their every day life, but these kids could go on to have kids who are blind, or be in a terrible accident that causes them to go blind, and this could really come in hand for them. It gave me a purpose, and I didn't know how much I needed that until I was helping.
It also helped me realize what I wanted to do in life. Teaching people how to read braille was empowering to me. I was doing something for others that was meaningful, and that made all the difference.
So I studied business in college with a minor in English, and about 4 years ago I actually opened my own bookstore, the first completely braille bookstore in New York City. There was a lot of skepticism about it when it first opened. Why did the whole bookstore need to be in braille? Why couldn't there be regular books there as well? I got those questions a lot, and my answer was pretty simple. There are hundreds of bookstores that cater to the needs of those with sight. There isn't a bookstore out there who caters solely for those who are blind, and I wanted them to know that there was a place for them. Even if it was just a bookstore.
Turns out, there were a lot more blind people in New York than I thought. But it wasn't just New York. There were people coming from all over the country to visit my store. It was incredibly. People were inspired by me, and my story. I didn't even realize that I was making a difference in all of these lives until I met them all. I was doing something for people who were like me. Outcasted because of a disability we couldn't control. And it felt great to know that doing something I was passionate about was rewarding so many people.
I didn't stop there though. I also was a tutor for the blind. I always loved working with kids. I often taught kids how to read braille after them went blind, but I never limited myself to that. If a kid needed help in another area, or if they were just struggling to read in general I always tried to help the best I could. I knew what it felt like to be looked over and just plan ignored by the school system because I'm blind, and if I could help another kid the way I wasn't helped, of course I'm going to do it.
I am only 28 years old, but I feel like I've accomplished so much in life already, and I can't wait to see where my next adventure lies. There is so much to be done in the world, especially for those with disabilities, and I can't wait to be another person who helps pave the way for kids and adults in the same situation. This was my calling, and I'm glad I found it.
Jace POV:
"Sammy, we're going to be late for school if you don't hurry up!" I called up to my 9 year old daughter.
"Coming!" She yelled back. Kids these days just take forever to get ready, especially girls. She came down the hallway, and Pluto was attached securely to her side. "Ready." She said and we got in the car.
My daughter was the most important thing in the world to me. She wasn't planned, and her birth was the most terrifying experience that I've ever gone through. Everything wasn't perfect when it came to Sammy, but we made it work, and as long as we had each other, that's all that matters.
I looked in my review mirror and Sammy and Pluto were sitting close together just like they always were. You see, Sammy was born blind. When the doctor first told me, I felt like my world just crashed. I didn't understand why this was happening to her. She wasn't even born yet but it felt like her life had already been mapped out for her. But that was all put aside when my girlfriend went into preterm labor. It was horrifying to see and when I saw my daughter for the first time, she was incredibly tiny, I could hold her in one hand.
My girlfriend didn't make it, and it was devastating to be a new father, to a tiny baby, who had no sight. I didn't understand why this had to happen. Why couldn't one thing just go right? I was so angry for so long. Sammy was in the NICU for about 2 months before I got to bring her home, and I just had to figure everything out. It took a lot of trial and error, but I feel like it's only brought us closer together in the end. I pulled up to the school and out the car in park.
"I'll be back at 3 to pick you up." I said and she leaned forward. I pulled her close and kissed her forehead. "I love you."
"I love you too daddy." She said and I couldn't help but smile.
"Have a good day." I said. She smiled a little and her and Pluto got out of the car.
I knew school was tough for her. There wasn't a blind school around here for her, and it sucks being the odd one out. And having Pluto just brought more attention to her, which I didn't like. I wanted everyone to treat her like the amazing girl she is, not just looking at her like the blind girl.
When I got to work, I tried to focus on my job, but I couldn't get my mind off Sammy. I knew she was having a hard time, although she tried to put on a brave face for me. I wanted to help her so badly, but I didn't know how.
I was online looking for ways to help her when something caught my eye. It was a service for older blind people who liked to tutor blind children. Almost like a blind mentoring program of sorts. I figured it wouldn't hurt, so I gave them a call.
"Hello, thank you for calling 'Blind Leading the Blind', my name is Patricia, how can I help you?" She asked and I couldn't help but smile at the name. they took something so negative and turned it positive, and I loved that.
"Yes, my name is Jace Herondale, and my daughter Samantha was born blind." I said. "I know your website says you deal with tutoring, but I am desperate." I admitted.
"What's going on?" She asked in a kind voice.
"My daughter is having a tough time at school. She's 9, and kids can be so cruel." I said.
"Don't I know it." She responded.
"I was wondering if there was anybody there who could maybe come around and spend time with my daughter, kind of like a mentor of sorts. Someone to show her that life isn't that important in 4th grade." I said and she laughed.
"I have the perfect person in mind." She said and that made me hopeful. "Can I have your email please?" She asked.
"Of course. It's ." I said.
"Thank you so much. I'm going to email everything about this volunteer, and if you like her, just email me back and I'll put you two in contact and hopefully it helps." She said.
"Thank you so much. I really didn't know what else to do." I said.
"Don't worry about it. Being blind in a visual society isn't easy. But it's not impossible, and kids need to know that. I sure as hell did when I was that young." She said and I nodded even though she couldn't see me.
"Well, thank you. Have a great day." I said and we hung up. This was going to be good. I knew it.
I got the email and started reading. She sounded like she would really help Sammy out and that's all I needed. I needed a good mentor for Sammy, because as much as I do for her, I'm never going to know what it's like to be blind, and Sammy really needs someone there for her who understand what life is like without vision, and this woman, she sounded like she knew how to help. I immediately answered the email, I wanted her help sooner rather than later.
Clary POV:
I was sitting in my office when my computer dinged with an email and immediately it started to read it off like its programed to do.
"Email from 'The Blind Leading the Blind' organization: Dear Clary, we got a call today about a young girl who was struggling to fit in at an all seeing school. We've talked to the father, and he is eager to meet you and hopefully get his daughter the mentoring that she needs to realize that just because she doesn't have sight, doesn't mean she isn't important. Please let us know if you're interested. Thanks, Patricia." The email ended. My heart went out to the girl. Being in an all seeing his school for me was hard, and horrible, and I wish I knew somebody who understood what I was going through. It didn't take more than 2 seconds to know that I wanted to help this girl out.
So I spoke into the computer and sent the email back as soon as possible. I loved helping those who are in the blind community, and if this little girl needs a mentor, I would love to fill that hole. Sometimes it helps to just know you aren't alone, and it makes all the difference. I think a lot of my depression and anxiety steamed from being different, and if I can lesson the possibility of her getting depression and anxiety, of course I'm going to do it.
Time Jump – First Meeting
Jace POV:
Today Clary was coming over to meet with Sammy, and I'm not going to lie. I was pretty nervous. When I first told Sammy about it, she wasn't really happy about me getting her a 'friend' who I paid, which is what she called it, but I told her that if she didn't like her after meeting her than we could just forget about it, but I wanted her to at least try, and she was okay with that.
Sammy was up in her room with Pluto like she always was, and I was basically pacing downstairs. It was always nerve-wracking bringing someone new into your life. It's been just Sammy, Pluto and I for 9 years, and I didn't know how it would be with Clary, but I wanted to help Sammy in any way that I could, and this happened to be the way.
The doorbell rang and my heart immediately started racing. I composed myself and I made my way to the door before opening it. What I didn't expect to find on the other end of that door was the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. She had the most vibrant red hair I've ever seen, and she was at least a foot shorter than me. She had a dog by her side, and she was smiling.
"Jace Herondale?" She asked.
"That's me." I said.
"I'm Clary Fray." She said as she extended her hand, and I gladly took it.
"It's nice to meet you Clary." I said as we shook hands.
"You as well. This is my dog, Dixie." She said as she motioned in the direction of the dog.
"It's nice to meet you as well Dixie." I said as I pet the dog. "My daughter has a dog as well." I said and she laughed.
"They are so much better than the walking stick." She said and I laughed. Sammy hated the stick.
"My daughter felt the same way." I said. "Please, come in." I said and she started walking. I closed the door and Clary was just standing in the hallway. "If you make a left, the living room is right there." I said and she nodded before continuing to walk. They got to the living room and found the couch. "I'm going to go get Sammy." I said.
"Dixie and I will be here." She said and I smiled to myself. I ran up the stairs and went into Sammy's room.
"Sammy, your tutor is here." I said once I opened her door.
"Don't you mean my blind babysitter?" She asked with so much sarcasm in her voice. Sometimes I wish she wasn't exactly like me.
"You don't even know her." I said. "Give her a chance before you completely write her off."
"Fine." She said as she stood up and her and Pluto started making their way downstairs. "But if she's like 75 years old, send her back." She said and I couldn't help but laugh.
"She isn't 75." I reassured her. We made our way into the living room where Clary was petting Dixie. "Clary." I said and she turned her direction towards my voice. "This is my daughter, Sammy, and her seeing eye dog Pluto."
"Pluto. Great name." Clary said and Sammy smiled.
"The woman who trained her said that she was the last of her litter to go, and when I got her I was obsessed with the planets. She was the last to go, and Pluto is the last planet." Sammy explained.
"I like your thought process. When I got Dixie I was obsessed with the book 'Because of Winn Dixie' and I just had to name her after it." Clary said. Sammy was now sitting on the other couch and Pluto was sitting close to her.
"Alright ladies, well, I'm going to make some lunch. I'll be in the kitchen if you need anything." I said and they both nodded. This could work, and I was optimistic about it, lets just hope Sammy feels the same way.
Clary POV:
"So, how old are you Clary?" Sammy asked me once her dad left.
"I'm 28. I'll be 29 at the end of the summer." I said.
"Have you been blind since birth as well?" She asked.
"No. I lost my sight when I was 15." I said.
"If you don't mind me asking, how did it happen?" She asked.
"I was in a car accident with my mom. I took the brunt of the impact, and in the end it took my vision." I explained.
"That sucks. Knowing what it's like to see and than that all be taken away. At least I've never seen anything a day in my life." She laughed, and I had to admit, for a little girl, she was pretty comfortable talking about this.
"It was hard, considering I wanted to be an artist my whole life. But I can't really create without my eyes." I said.
"What do you do for work?" She asked.
"I own my own braille bookstore." I said.
"No way." She said and I heard the slight inflection in her voice. She was pleasantly surprised.
"Yea. It's entirely in braille. I went to college for business with a minor in English. After I lost my vision, I was severely depressed, but after therapy, and some medication I realized I needed another plan in life. I was going to be something, and there isn't an entire braille bookstore in all of New York, and it became my dream, and my goal to be the first." I explained.
"That's so cool. How come I've never heard of it before?" She asked.
"This isn't a jab at your dad, but unless you're in a blind chat group, or on a blind forum for these kind of things, you don't hear about them." I said. "My bookstore got a lot of backlash from the seeing community. They thought I was discriminating against seeing people."
"They discriminate against us all the time." She pointed out.
"Exactly, but I wasn't trying to fight fire with fire. I just wanted a place where blind people felt welcome, and that they had their own place." I explained. "I'm getting more of a following, and hopefully I can started advertising in other ways than just word of mouth, and blind chat groups." I said and she laughed.
"Alright ladies, lunch is served." I heard Jace say. "Would you like to eat in here? Or in the kitchen?" He asked.
"Whatever Sammy wants to do." I said.
"What will it be princess?" He asked and she laughed.
"Kitchen. Pluto is hungry too." She said and I stood up and grabbed hold of Dixie.
"Would Dixie like some lunch as well?" Jace asked.
"If it's not too much trouble." I said.
"Not at all." He said and Dixie guided me to the table and I took a seat.
"What is for lunch if it's not too much to ask?" I asked when I heard the plate be placed in front of me.
"Sammy's favorite." Jace said and I could hear the smile in his voice. "Pizza."
"Thanks dad." Sammy said and I heard Jace kiss the top of her head.
"Anything for you." Jace said.
"Dad, Clary owns an all braille bookstore." Sammy said and I felt myself blush. It was a good thing that I couldn't see him otherwise I'd be embarrassed. "We need to go one day."
"We can go next weekend if you want. Check it out, maybe buy you some new books. I know you've been itching to start something new for weeks." Jace said and Sammy laughed.
"I just haven't found anything I've liked, and sometimes books aren't published in braille, which sucks cause I don't like listening to books." Sammy said.
"I work with publishing companies who are really supportive of getting their books to different audiences. I don't know if it's because they want more money or they actually care about blind people." I said and they both laughed. "But we have a wide variety. And if you want a certain book, I can try my hardest to get it for you." I told her.
"That would be awesome." Sammy said.
"Is there anything in particular that you want? I can try and get it for you by next weekend." I said.
"Really?" She asked.
"Sometimes publishing companies make the books in braille but never sell them. Either they feel like it's not marketable enough, or someone pulls the plugs along the way. It's worth a shot to ask regardless. The worst they can tell me if they don't have it." I said.
"I'll have to think about it." Sammy said.
"Take as much time as you need." I said.
The rest of lunch went by really well. It was so easy to talk to Sammy and Jace, and I could feel how important they are to each other. They were a small, but very loving little family, and I could really see myself helping Sammy out. I felt like we could be really good friends, and sometimes all you need is one good friend to make the hard times easier.
"I should head out. I have dinner with my mom tonight, and she is a stickler for punctuality." I said and they laughed.
"How did you get here?" Jace asked absentmindedly. "Oh shit, that was a terrible question to ask." He said and I laughed.
"No it isn't. I get that one quite a lot." I reassured him. "My brother, he lives in Australia now for work, but he wanted to help and since he couldn't be around to be my personal driver, he hired a company to be my personal driver instead." I explained. "She should be here any minute."
"That was very nice of him." Jace said.
"Yea. I appreciate it more than he probably knows." I said.
"Yea, I'll be this ones personal driver for the rest of my life, which I don't mind." Jace said and I could hear him smiling. "Anything to spend more time together."
"Just wait until she's a teenager and doesn't want her dad around all the time. That's how I felt about my brother. No 16 year old wants to be dropped off everywhere, but it's one more thing we have to give up when it comes to our disability." I explained.
"I got thick skin. I think I can handle it." Jace said and I laughed, and than my phone started speaking.
"I'm here!" It said indicating that my driver was there.
"That's my cue. I'll see you two this weekend at the bookstore?" I asked.
"Absolutely." Jace said.
"Great." I beamed. "The bookstore is called Brilliantly Braille. Come check me out." I said and I realized that probably wasn't the best word choice, but oh well.
"We will." Jace said and I could almost sense him smirking at me.
"It was a pleasure to meet you Sammy, Pluto, and Jace. I can't wait to do it again." I said as I was guided towards the door.
"You and Dixie as well." Jace said.
"I can't wait to see you again." Sammy said.
"Bye guys." I said as I made my way to the car. I got in and the door shut. We started driving and about 5 minutes later my driving decided to speak.
"Why are you so smiley?" She asked.
"I just had a really good day." I admitted.
"You look like you had a fantastic day." She said and I could hear the insinuation.
"What's that supposed to mean?" I asked and she laughed.
"Girl, he was smoking hot." She said.
"I can't see Camille." I reminded her.
"Oh shit. I'm sorry." She said. "I always forget considering you're so chill. I was warned by the last driver all about why you have a driver. I'm sorry I keep forgetting." She said and I could tell she felt bad.
"Don't worry about it." I said. "But was he really hot?" I asked and she laughed.
"Girl, he's super hot. Like, he looks like a Greek god." She said and my cheeks flushed. "What are you doing there again?" She asked.
"His daughter is blind, and needs a little help socializing. So he contacted 'Blind Leading the Blind' and Patricia set us up." I explained.
"That's cool. Is he married?" She asked.
"I didn't really think to ask, but neither of them mentioned a mother or wife or even a girlfriend, so I don't know." I said honestly. It didn't even occur to me to ask.
"Work your magic." She said and I laughed.
"I'm there for his daughter, not him." I reminded her.
"It wouldn't hurt to explore it if that's what you both want." She said honestly.
"I don't know if he feels that way towards me. We just met today." I said.
"You have time." She said. "Just let it all happen naturally. See where it goes." She wasn't wrong. Hanging out with them was natural, and if he does feel something towards me, why shouldn't we explore it? But that'll come after knowing them for a little longer. So far I was happy building a friendship with Sammy and Jace. And of course Pluto, can't forget Pluto.
Sammy POV:
It was late, and I was getting ready for bed. Today went a lot better than expected and I was excited to see Clary again. She was really nice and it was good to be in the presence of someone who knows what I'm going through. Don't get me wrong, I love my dad, and he's done everything to make sure I was comfortable, but there was something about knowing, and talking to someone who was in my position, and who is doing something with their life despite being blind. There was a knock on my door that interrupted my thoughts.
"Come in." I said.
"Hey princess, you ready for bed?" My dad asked.
"Yea." I said. I heard my door close and a moment later my bed dipped.
"How did you enjoy today?" He asked. I knew I gave him a hard time when he first told me, but I'm glad it worked out.
"I had a great time. I really like Clary." I said honestly.
"You do?" He asked.
"Yea. She's really nice, and it gives me hope that I can have a future like her." I admitted.
"What did I tell you? I'm always right." He said playfully.
"Sometimes." I said and he laughed. "You know, she's 28." I said suggestively.
"And your point?" My dad asked.
"Just pointing it out." I said.
"Samantha, are you trying to set Clary and I up together?" He asked.
"It's a possibility." I said. "She's great, and we had a great time, and we all seemed to get along. I just thought that maybe, in the future." I said.
"Why don't we focus on you first, than we can focus on me." My dad said.
"Okay." I said.
"We're going to visit Pop-Pop and Nanna tomorrow." He said. "You should get some sleep."
"Goodnight dad." I said and I felt him kiss my forehead. "I love you."
"I love you too princess." He said before leaving. I laid back down and thought about what it would be like to have a full family, and I liked it, a lot. I just didn't know if it was every going to happen.
Time Jump – Saturday
Jace POV:
"Come on dad, I want to spend the whole day there!" Sammy eagerly said as we got into the car.
"It's only 9:30 in the morning Sammy, we have plenty of time." I reminded her.
"But I miss Clary." She said and I couldn't help but smile. I was happy that she had formed a bond so quickly with Clary. It made me hopeful that having someone in her corner who understands what she's going through will always be there for her.
I followed the directions towards the bookstore, and when I pulled up to the front of it, I would have never seen it if I wasn't looking for it. I've probably passed this place so many times but just never gave it a second glance.
Sammy and Pluto got out of the car and we made our way into the store. Dixie was the first thing I saw, but Clary was missing. Pluto guided Sammy over to where Dixie was and I started looking around for Clary. I found her in the stacks of books running her hand over the spins, clearly looking for something. I cleared my throat to indicate that I was there.
"I'll be right with you." She said in a happy voice.
"It's Jace." I said and her smile got bigger.
"I'm so glad you made it." She said as she continued to skim the bookshelf.
"Do you need any help?" I offered.
"Can you read braille?" She asked.
"I learned as soon as I found out Sammy was blind." I told her.
"Than I'd love your help." She said. "I'm not tall enough to reach the top shelf." She said and I laughed. I made my way over to her and started skimming.
"What am I looking for?" I asked.
"This is a Stephen King book." She said and I nodded. "It goes right after Pet Semetary." She explained and I nodded. I found the spot and put the book there.
"All done." I said and she smiled.
"Thank you so much. My tall employee doesn't get in until 10:15." She said and I laughed a little.
"Would you like me to escort you back to the front?" I offered.
"That would be really nice." She said. I took her arm and wrapped it around my bicep. We made our way back to the front and I put Clary's hand on the desk. Something about Clary's touch was magnetic. Almost like we were being pulled together and the moment we linked, I didn't want to let go.
"Hi Clary." Sammy said enthusiastically.
"How are you doing Sammy?" Clary asked.
"I'm great. I can't wait to spend the day with you!" She said and I just couldn't help but smile.
"I can't wait either." Clary said with a big smile.
"Alright you two, I have to go run a few errands. Do you mind if I come back in a couple hours? I can bring lunch." I offered.
"Can you go to Taki's dad?" Sammy begs.
"Only if it's okay with Clary." I said.
"Of course. We'll just be here talking about girl stuff." Clary said and I laughed.
"Sounds good. I'll be back around noon." I said and they both nodded. "What would you like for lunch Clary?" I asked.
"A burger, fries, and a vanilla milkshake." She said.
"Same order as Sammy, easy enough." I said and they both laughed.
"I'll see you late princess." I said as I kissed Sammy's forehead.
"Bye daddy." She said and I made my way out to the car. Before I completely left I looked through the window and saw Clary and Sammy talking and laughing about something, this was definitely the best thing I've done for Sammy in a long time. She definitely needed this.
Clary POV:
"So, more employees should be coming in soon, but until than, what would you like to do?" I asked Sammy.
"I'd like to know more about you." She said, and I was pretty surprised but flattered that she wanted to get to know me more.
"Okay, how about question for question?" I asked.
"Sounds good." She said.
"Okay, so you're 9 correct?" I asked.
"Correct." She said.
"That means, you're in 4th grade correct?" I asked.
"Correct." She said again.
"What's your favorite subject?" I asked.
"Math." She said.
"Really?" I asked a little stunned. I've never met someone who loves math.
"Yea. I take after my dad." She said proudly.
"What does he do for work?" I asked curiously.
"He's an actuary." She said and I'm not going to lie, that kinda stunned me.
"So he's like super smart?" I asked and she laughed.
"He's really smart. He graduated high school early, and graduated college in 3 years." She bragged, and I didn't blame her. That was impressive.
"That's really awesome." I said honestly.
"I know. Even having me so young he was still committed to finishing school and raising me alone." She said, which answered my question about her mom. "What about you? What do your parents do?" She asked.
"My mom has two jobs." I said. "Her main job is she's an accountant, but on the side she's an artist. She wanted something that made money since she was raising two kids, but she didn't want to give up art." I explained.
"And your dad?" She asked.
"My dad died when I was 2 years old." I admitted. "But before he died he was a lawyer." I said. "According to my mom, he was pretty good. So, what do you want to do with your future as of right now?" I asked. I knew that was a heavy question for a 9 year old, but she seemed mature.
"Right now I want to be a veterinarian." She said. "But that could always change."
"Very noble. Wanting to help animals." I said and she laughed.
"I just imagine Pluto being sick and I relied on that vet to help, I want to being that kind of peace to others." She said.
"Well, I have absolute faith in you." I said. "So, besides reading, what do you like to do in your free time?" I asked.
"I like going on walks with Pluto and my dad." She said and I smiled. "According to my dad, there is this really nice park right around the corner of my house. So we go there a lot. I also like hanging out with my cousins." She said.
"How many cousins do you have?" I asked.
"2. Max and Rafe." She said. "They aren't really my cousins. They're my dad's best friends kids, but they call my dad Uncle Jace, and I call their dads Uncle Alec and Uncle Magnus."
"Oh, two dads?" I asked without filtering myself.
"Yea." She said almost sadly, like she's been made fun of it before.
"Sweet. I bet they're a blast to hang out with." I said.
"They are." She said, a little happier now. "Rafe is 2 years older than me. And Max is 7, but it's always fun to hang out together."
"Sounds like fun. I didn't have any cousins. It was just my brother and I." I admitted.
"That's so sad." She said.
"That's what happens when both my parents were only children." I said.
"So, are you dating anyone?" She asked. Man this kid was blunt.
"No." I said honestly. "I don't get much time to date. This place keeps me pretty busy."
"Do you want a family?" She asked, and she was getting personal, but she was a kid, and kids tended to be curious.
"I do." I said. "I've always wanted a couple children and a husband. I wanted to be a wife, and do wifely duties, but I haven't found the right guy who wants to date or even marry a blind girl."
"Does that mean I have no hope?" She asked and it broke my heart.
"There is someone out there who is less superficial. Someone who will look past the blindness, and give you everything you ever needed." I said as I reached across and took her hands in mine. "And I'm not going to lie, there will be guys out there who will be freaked out by you being blind, and some who will flat out tell you that your blindness is the reason they don't want to date you. Take it from me though, don't ever let those guys define you." I told her. "One day, you'll get the man of your dreams, and he'll treat you like a princess with or without your sight."
"Thanks Clary." She said and I smiled. The door rang and it was time to start the day, but I was not expecting what happened next.
"Sammy?" A woman asked.
"Aunt Izzy? Is that you?" Sammy asked.
"Yea. What are you doing here, and where is your dad?" Izzy asked.
"He dropped me off so I could spend the day with Clary. What are you doing here?" Sammy asked.
"I heard about this place, and was going to buy you a book for your birthday." Izzy said, and I couldn't help but smile. My bookstore was spreading rather well.
"This is so cool." Sammy said. "Clary, that's my Aunt Izzy, my Uncle Alec's sister. Aunt Izzy, this is Clary, she's my new mentor of sorts." Sammy said.
"Mentor? For what?" Izzy asked.
"Dad thought I needed some friends." Sammy said and we all ended up laughing at that. "Clary here normally tutors blind kids, but I'm a special case."
"It's very nice to meet you." Izzy said and I stuck out my hand and after a moment, she shook it.
"You two can look around for any book you want." I said.
"Do you mind if I leave Pluto?" Sammy asked.
"Not at all." I said and their voices started fading away. I was sitting at the desk waiting for my employees, and reading a book. The bell rang and I thought it was going to be a customer, but when I heard the voice, I was pleasantly surprised.
"Miss me?" I heard and I got up from the counter.
"Simon, what are you doing back in the country?" I asked as I stood in front of the desk and waited for him to come to me.
"I have some vacation time, and thought I'd come visit the family." He said as he hugged me. "How have you been?" He asked.
"I've been good. What about you?" I asked.
"Busy, but I'm glad to have some time off." He said and I nodded.
"Clary!" I heard and I turned my head in the direction of the voice. "Is that my dad?" I heard Sammy ask.
"No Sammy, it's my best friend Simon." I said.
"Who is that?" Simon asked.
"A little girl I'm mentoring. She's blind." I said.
"Gotcha." Simon said. "So I was thinking we could catch some lunch." He said.
"I'm sorry Simon, but Sammy's dad is bringing back lunch for Sammy and I." I told him.
"No problem, but we have to get lunch a few times while I'm back." He said and the door opened again.
"I'll be with you in a second." I said.
"It's Jace." He said again and I didn't realize how quickly the time passed.
"It's just a party now." I said and Simon laughed. "A woman by the name Izzy is here."
"She's in this bookstore?' Jace asked.
"Yea. She's looking at books with Sammy right now." I told him. "And this is my best friend Simon. Simon this is Sammy's father, Jace." I introduced them.
"Nice to meet you man." Simon said.
"You as well." Jace said.
"Alright, we'll talk another time. Let me know when you're free so we can do lunch." Simon said and he gave me one last hug.
"Clary." I heard, but this time it was Izzy and I heard Simon suck in a breath. "I was wondering if I could just out a bunch of books on hold for right now, and pick them up later." Izzy asked.
"Of course." I said.
"Jace, come help but get some books." Izzy said and I heard footsteps in that direction start to fade.
"Close your mouth Simon." I said. "You'll catch flies."
"How did you even know?" He asked and I laughed.
"I could hear your breathing. It's a little labored. You good?" I asked.
"She's gorgeous." Simon said.
"I wish I could see, but I'll take your word for it." I said and he laughed.
"Call me soon Fray." He said. I nodded than I heard the door chime and I knew he was gone.
"Dixie, come here girl!" I called and she ran right over to me, and led me towards the food that smelled so good.
"Alright, well I'll see you two another day." I heard Izzy said. "Clary, I'm just going to leave the books on the counter, is that alright?" She asked.
"Perfect." I said.
"Great. Bye guys." She said and I heard the door chime again and she was gone.
"Dad this smells so good." Sammy said.
"I'm glad, eat up." He said and we did just that. Lunch went by as well as lunch last week went by. There was something natural about our time together, something that I liked very much.
Time Jump – Later That Night
Jace POV:
Sammy was in bed and I was about to check up on her. We had a good day today, and I saw Sammy laugh more with Clary than I ever have in her entire life, and that made me feel even more confident in this friendship that they were building. I knocked on her door and heard a faint 'come in' so I opened the door and Sammy was already in bed.
"You have a good day princess?" I asked and she smiled.
"I had a great time. Clary is great, and it was nice to spend some time with Aunt Izzy." She said.
"It's so weird that she went to Clary's bookstore." I said and Sammy laughed and nodded. "What did you two end up talking about when I was gone?" I asked curiously.
"We asked each other questions." She said.
"About?" I probed.
"Each other." She said. "She doesn't have any cousins. It's just her and her brother. Her dad died when she was 2, which is really sad. Her mom is an accountant, but also an artist. She wants a family, but apparently nobody wants to date or marry a blind girl." Sammy explained and that just broke my heart. "But she reassured me that there is someone out there who will see past the blindness, and love me no matter what, which I was kinda nervous about after our conversation, but I'm only 9 so I got time." She said and I laughed.
"You have nothing but time princess, and Clary is right. The right man is out there for you." I said.
"I hope Clary finds the right man." Sammy said. "She deserves it. She's bee through enough in her life that she deserves that."
"I hope she finds the right man as well." I said.
"I got her number. So if I'm on my phone a lot, it's Clary." She said and I laughed.
"I'm glad this all worked out Sammy." I said.
"Me too dad. Thank you for reaching out." She said. I leaned forward and pressed my lips against her forehead. "I love you."
"I love you too princess." I said and I turned her lamp off. She tucked herself in and I made my way to my room. Hearing that Clary wanted a family, and not being able to get that broke my heart. She seemed wonderful and I've only known her for a week. Just because she's blind doesn't mean she's incapable of things. Maybe I was biased because I have a blind daughter, but being blind shouldn't be a problem for people. Sure it's an adjustment but it isn't impossible either.
Time Jump – One Year Later
Clary POV:
So, I've officially known Sammy for an entire year. I was planning on doing something special for her. I've been talking to Jace recently, and Sammy loves animals, and has always loved the outdoors, so I thought I'd take her camping. Jace thought it was a great idea, so that's what we were doing.
Jace was coming along because two blind girls in the woods would be awfully dangerous, and I knew he didn't want anything happening to Sammy. What I found out about Jace was that he made a lot of money doing what he did, so we were actually going camping in an RV and than Sammy and I would pitch a tent, and Jace would stay in the RV so we could still have our little girls trip. Plus the dogs could stay in the RV as well. I doubt Dixie and Pluto would like nature.
I was on my way to their house and I just couldn't contain my eagerness. I was excited. I haven't been camping since I was 8, and my brother took me to his Boy Scout thingy and I hated it, but I'm excited to be doing this with Sammy. Camille pulled up to the house and I opened the door.
"Have fun girl!" She said and I smiled before getting out of the car.
"Hey." I heard Jace say.
"Hey. You excited?" I asked and he laughed.
"I'm very excited. I get to sleep in the RV." He said.
"Sammy and I will be living it up like true nature girls." I said.
"I bet you will. Is your stuff in the trunk?" He asked.
"Yes." I said.
"Why don't you go inside with Sammy, and I'll load the rest of your stuff into the RV and we'll be ready to go." He said. I nodded and made my way inside where Sammy was playing with Pluto.
"You as ready as I am?" I asked.
"Super excited. Thank you for doing this Clary. It's awesome." She said.
"I can't wait either. It'll be so much fun!" I said.
"Alright ladies, time to hit the road." Jace said. I made my way out and he helped me into the RV and I took a seat on the couch. Not a minute later Sammy joined me. Jace got in the front and we started moving. This was going to be a great weekend, I knew it.
Time Jump – Hours Later
Jace POV:
The place where we were going camping was pretty far away. When I looked in my mirror, I saw Sammy sleeping with her head on Clary's lap, while Clary was leaning against the armrest of the couch. They were passed out and I couldn't help but smile to myself.
The rest of the drive was quiet. The radio was playing and I was humming along to whatever song was playing. I was just in a great mood and I was really looking forward to see Sammy have a great weekend. It's been a pleasure getting to know Clary, and see how much Sammy has opened up since she came around. It was what I was hoping for, and I'm glad she got it.
"Mind if I join?" I heard and when I turned around there was Clary.
"Not at all." I said. She took a seat, and buckled up.
"It's been awhile since I was in the front of a car." She said.
"Why is that?" I asked.
"A car accident is what caused my blindness. I was in the front seat and I took the majority of the impact." She said.
"That's horrible." I said.
"Yea. I stick to the back, and I sit in the middle. Call it paranoia, but I like being cautious." She explained.
"That's not being paranoid. That's a fear that you want to prevent from happening again." I said and she nodded.
"Nobody really understands why I do it. According to them, I should be over it. It's been almost 15 years, but I still get scared. Especially now that I'm blind. I literally can't see it coming." She said and I laughed but so did she so I didn't feel bad about it.
"You know, you have a really good sense of humor when it comes to being blind." I pointed out. "It's actually starting to rub off on Sammy."
"There are two ways to handle the situation we've been put in: negatively or positively. I was negative for so many years. Depression hit me really hard, and it took me some time to get back on my feet." She explained. "Once I did that, I decided to stop being so hard on myself. I can't control what happened, but I can control what happens in the future, and I chose to make whatever happens positive."
"I like that." I said honestly. "It's given Sammy some control over how people treat her now. Before you came into our lives she was pretty introverted, but since you and her have gotten close she a lot more outgoing and proud of being blind. She looks at it as a unique characteristic, not a disability."
"And I'm so glad I can do that for her." Clary said. "If I can help anyone realize that it's okay to be blind, than I feel like I've done my job on this earth."
"I think you're selling yourself short." I said honestly. "You're only 29. You have a long life to live."
"Yea, but I don't feel like I'm doing much as a single woman." She said. I looked over at her, and I could see that having a family meant a lot to her. Just by how sad the topic made her. "It's stupid really, but a family is something I always wanted, and something that I feel is slipping away year by year."
"It's not stupid. I never wanted to be a father, but the minute I found out about Sammy, there wasn't anything else I wanted in the world. Being a father became who I am, especially after her mom died." I confessed.
"I figured it was a sore subject." She said.
"Not so much sore, but just something I want to wait to tell Sammy, until she's a little older that is. I know she's tough, but she's still a little girl." I explained.
"What happened?" She asked. "If it isn't too personal."
"Well, we were together for about a year and a half when she found out she was pregnant." I started. "We weren't ready, but we had time. Until she went into preterm labor." I said. "It was horrifying and she didn't make it. I was suddenly left with a premature baby who was blind, college, and the grief of losing my girlfriend. I thought I wasn't going to be able to do it. My parents were really helpful in the beginning, but once I graduated and settled down, I wanted to do it on my own, and I think we've done pretty well."
"You've done amazing. Sammy is an amazing girl. So bright, so enjoyable, and so friendly. She's one of a kind." Clary beamed.
"She has one of a kind as a mentor." I said without thought, but I meant it.
"Thank you." Clary said and I heard Sammy yawn.
"About time you joined the party sleepy head." I said and she laughed.
"Sorry. I barely slept last night I was so excited. I guess it caught up to me." Sammy explained.
"I heard." I said and she made her way towards us.
"Do you want to take my spot?" Clary asked Sammy.
"No." She said before she climbed into Clary's lap. Clary wrapped her arms around Sammy and gave her a light squeeze. "I can't wait to sleep in the woods tonight." Sammy said and Clary laughed.
"Me either." Clary said. I was focused on the road, but I couldn't help but take glances at Sammy and Clary. I couldn't put into words how happy it made me to see those two together.
The rest of the ride was rather quick and Clary and Sammy eventually went back to play with Pluto and Dixie. At one point they started singing along to the radio and I just felt right, and it made me more excited to have this weekend away with them.
When we finally get there, it was reaching dinnertime, so before we went out to pitch the tent, I made sure they both ate. Sammy and Clary were both impatient, they were eager to get out in the woods, but they needed food. Since we just drove for hours, and now they were going to pitch a tent.
When it was finally time, Sammy grabbed Pluto, and Clary grabbed Dixie, and we made our way out to the camping spot. The dogs sat quietly while I helped Clary and Sammy build this tent. This wasn't my kind of thing, but the girls were enjoying the hell out of it, and that made me enjoy it.
"It's finally done." Sammy said after about 45 minutes.
"Thank the Angel." I said and they both laughed. "I'll go get your stuff." I said as I went back to the RV and grabbed their sleeping bags and stuff. I went back the tent and Clary and Sammy were in the tent laughing. I heard them talking as well, and I couldn't help but listen for a moment before I disturbed them.
"I wish I could see it." Sammy said. "To know what trees look like, or what flowers look like." She said, and I realized that she would never get that opportunity.
"I know it might sound redundant, giving that you're blind, but close your eyes." Clary said and Sammy laughed a little. "Now, just imagine you're standing in the middle of a field. There is green fluffy grass beneath your feet, and a gentle warm breeze. The trees, huge trunks of brown with bushels of green leaves swaying in the breeze." Clary began to describe. "The flowers, are red, and blue, and yellow, and pink. Birds are chirping and there is a creek running into the pond where all the fish are swimming, and there is a bridge where you can stand to look at them. Kids are running around, and people are out on picnics. Dogs are barking and running around with their owners practically being dragged." She said and Sammy laughed. "It can look however you want. We all interpret the world differently, and just because you don't have the ability to see it, doesn't mean you can't imagine what it would look like." Clary said and I heard Sammy sniffle.
"Thank you Clary." Sammy said. "You're like the best friend, and perfect role model I've ever had."
"Hey, I had 15 years of vision. The artist in me never died, so if you ever want to describe anything, I'll try my best." Clary told her.
"I love you Clary." Sammy said and I heard Clary gasp. "I don't think I've ever verbalized it. But I do."
"I love you too Sam." Clary said. When I opened the tent flap, they were hugging.
"I have your things ladies." I said and they broke apart.
"Thanks dad." Sammy said.
"Of course. Now, I don't know about you two, but I'm exhausted. So I'm gonna call it an early night, but call if you need anything." I said and they both nodded.
"I love you daddy." Sammy said.
"I love you too princess." I said and I kissed her forehead. "Have a good night ladies."
I went into the RV and made my bed. Nature wasn't my thing, so I was happy staying in the comfort of an air-conditioned space with a bathroom, and a bed. I gave the dogs their dinner and I went in the back and got ready for bed. It had been a long day and I was looking forward to some sleep.
Time Jump – Middle of the Night
Clary POV:
A loud crack of thunder woke me up. I shot out of bed like I was being tased, and I patted the spot next to me, and Sammy wasn't there.
"Sammy?" I called out.
"Over here." She said frightened.
"Are you okay?" I asked.
"I'm scared. I don't like storms." She admitted.
"Okay. How about we go into the RV tonight." I suggested.
"Okay." She said. I reached over and took her hand in mine. I opened the tent and blindly made our way towards the RV. When we finally got there, I opened the door, thankfully Jace left it unlocked. When we got in, Pluto and Dixie were alert, probably wondering where we were.
"Where would you like to sleep?" I asked.
"I would really like to sleep on the couch. I want to put the TV on so I can drown out the sound." She said.
"Okay. I'm going to go tell your father that we're in here." I said.
"Thank you Clary." She said and I found her head and kissed her forehead.
"Get some rest kiddo." I said. "Come here Dixie." I said and she led me towards the back of the RV. I opened the door and the bed was right there. I tripped a little and when my hands landed on the bed, I hit Jace's foot.
"What's going on?" He asked with a sleepy voice.
"Did the storm not wake you up?" I asked.
"Clary?" He questioned.
"Who else would it be?" I asked and just like that, a crack of thunder made it's presence known.
"Damn. How long has it been thundering?" He questioned.
"I don't know. I woke up about 20 minutes ago." I told him.
"Where is Sammy? Is she still outside?" He asked worriedly.
"You really think I'd leave her outside?" I tried not to yell. "I led her into the RV. She's on the couch. She's using the TV to drown out the sound of the storm."
"I'm impressed you found the RV." He said and I laughed.
"It helped that you didn't park that far from the tent." I added.
"Right." He said. "Where are you going to sleep?" He asked.
"Probably in one of the seats up front." I said. "Or the floor."
"Nonsense. This bed is big enough for two people. I refuse to let you sleep in a chair or the floor." Jace said.
"Are you sure?" I asked hesitantly.
"Clary, we're both adults. We can share a bed." Jace said.
"Okay." I said as I made my way over to the bed. I grabbed the covers and got under them, happy to be in a comfy bed. "Thank you."
"Goodnight Clary." Jace said.
"Goodnight Jace." I said and I was falling back into a deep sleep. This weekend might not turn out the way Sammy and I imagined, but I think it'll be fun.
Jace POV:
I woke up and realized that I was holding onto someone. When I opened my eyes, I saw not one face, but two. Sammy had weaseled her way in between Clary and I sometime in the middle of the night. When my eyes were fully awake, I couldn't help but smile at the sight. My arms were wrapped protectively around Sammy and Clary, and Clary had her arm wrapped protectively around Sammy, as if she would let nothing happen to her.
I don't know how long I was just taking in the moment before Clary started to stir. She opened her eyes and I never noticed how incredibly green they were. Of course this was the closest I've ever been to her, but they were mesmerizing. I could lose myself in them instantly.
"Jace?" Clary questioned.
"I'm up." I said.
"When did Sammy join us?" She asked and I laughed.
"No idea. I guess the TV wasn't helping and she wanted to sleep with me." I assumed.
"I don't blame her. That storm was insane." She said.
"I know. I can't believe I slept through it." I said and she laughed.
"Daddy?" I heard from Sammy and I looked down.
"Hey princess. How are you?" I asked her.
"I'm good. I'm sorry I came in and disrupted you but I couldn't be alone anymore out there." Sammy said.
"You didn't disrupt anything sweetheart." I said.
"When I came in here, I wanted to sleep in between you two, I felt safer, but you two were already super close. I had to break in." Sammy said and I looked at Clary who was blushing like crazy, but I couldn't help but smile.
"You are always welcome in my bed princess. You know that." I said and she smiled up at me.
"I know daddy." Sammy said.
"Well, now that we're all awake, how about I make some breakfast?" I asked.
"Yes!" Sammy cheered.
"Does everyone like eggs?" I asked and I saw Clary scrunch her nose. "What's the look for Clary?" I asked.
"I don't like eggs." She said. "I actually hate them." She said and I laughed.
"Okay, no eggs for Clary. We have oatmeal, or cereal, or fruit." I offered.
"Oatmeal sounds good." She said and I nodded.
"Well, you two relax, and I'll get you when breakfast is ready." I said. They both nodded and I left the room to make breakfast. I liked waking up like that, and I hoped they decided to stay in the RV for the rest of the weekend.
Clary POV:
After Jace left, Sammy rolled over and moved closer to me. I put my arms around her and pulled her into me.
"I think you and my dad should go out on a date." She said bluntly.
"Oh really? And why is that?" I asked and she laughed.
"Because I really want you to be apart of our family." She said and my heart swelled.
"But I am. We're best friends." I said.
"But I want you to be really part of our family." She said.
"Sam, it doesn't work like that." I said. "Your dad and I, we'd have to date and see if there was anything there, and sometimes that doesn't always work out." I told her.
"But it could." She said. "We're basically on a family vacation right now." She said and I laughed.
"I don't want to ruin anything princess." I said dreamily.
"See, you're even picking up on the pet names he calls me." She said.
"That one slipped." I told her and she scoffed and I can only assume she rolled her eyes. "Sam, you can't just wish up a family and get it. Relationships take work, and effort, and so much love and respect and trust."
"Don't you have that with my dad?" Sammy asked.
"Not all of those Sam." I said.
"Knock knock!" I heard Jace say. "Breakfast is served." Sammy and I got out of bed and made our way into the living area. Jace guided us both over to the bed, which was now a table, and put our food in front of us. "Let's hope the rest of today is better than last night." Jace said as he opened the RV door, and all I heard was pouring rain. "Okay, looks like there are going to be a lot of indoor activities."
"Was rain in the forecast?" I asked.
"I don't remember seeing it." Jace said.
"Oh well." Sammy said. "It was fun while it lasted. We'll just have to go camping again."
"Right you are princess." Jace said as he joined us. I couldn't get what Sammy told me out of my head. Of course I loved Sammy, and I loved being with them, but she was asking me to basically be her mother and that was kinda terrifying, but in a good way.
Time Jump – Six Months Later
Jace POV:
It felt like the past couple months Sammy has been pulling away from Clary. Whenever I asked if she wanted to go to the bookstore or if she wanted me to invite Clary along, she always said no, or another time. I don't know what happened between the two of them, and neither did Clary, but for some reason Sammy felt the need to distance herself and I really wanted to know why. When she got in the car after I picked her up from school, she was uncharacteristically quiet.
"What's wrong Sammy?" I finally asked.
"Nothing." She hissed back.
"Samantha Herondale. What as gotten into you?" I said authoritatively.
"It doesn't matter dad." She said.
"It's bothering you, so if course it matters." I said.
"It's stupid really." She said. I reached my hand over and rested it on her leg.
"Talk to me Sammy." I said.
"Next week, all the moms were invited to come and spend the day with us, but I don't have a mom." She said and I sighed. I knew this would be a problem later in life.
"Sam, I'm so sorry." I said.
"I told you, it's stupid." She said.
"No it isn't. it's not fair that your mom isn't around anymore. And I know these things suck without her, but maybe you can ask Aunt Izzy to go with you." I suggested.
"I don't want her there." She said. "I want a mother dad." She said.
"It doesn't work like that princess." I said and she let out a dry laugh.
"I've heard the one before." She said.
"What do you mean?" I asked curiously. She just shrugged. "Sammy, come on, talk to me." I said.
"When we went camping." She started. "Clary and I had a conversation, and I told her that I wanted you two to date, and I wanted her to become part of our family."
"Oh Sam." I said.
"She said it didn't work like that. She didn't want to ruin anything, and that relationships require work and love and trust and a bunch of other things." She said.
"She's right." I added.
"But it's not fair." Sammy said. "She's basically a part of our family already."
"Is that why you've been pulling away from her?" I asked and Sammy nodded. "Sam, you can't just pull away when things don't go the way you want them to."
"Do you like Clary?" She asked bluntly.
"Of course I like her. She's great." I said.
"No, do you like her like her?" She asked.
"What are we in middle school?" I asked and she laughed.
"Actually, I kinda am." She said sarcastically and I laughed.
"Alright Miss. Sassy. If you're asking if I have feelings for Clary, the answer would be yes." I said honestly.
"I knew it! Why don't you just ask her out?" She asked.
"Because similarly to what Clary said, there is potential that it could ruin everything, and I don't want to do that to you, or her." I said.
"You'll never know unless you try dad." Sammy said.
"Are you sure you're 11 years old? Cause you sound like a mature grown up." I said and Sammy laughed.
"Hanging around Clary made me more mature." She said and I laughed.
"How about we call Clary tonight, and get together this weekend?" I suggested.
"Sounds great." Sammy said. She seemed lighter already, and that made me feel good.
Time Jump – Later That Night
Clary POV:
It had been a long night at the bookstore, and I got a text from my driver that she got into a huge pile up so she couldn't get me, and I didn't have anyone else that I could call, so desperate times call for desperate measures. I pulled out my phone and pressed the home button.
"Call Jace." I said into the microphone. It started ringing.
"Hello?" Jace answered and Dixie and I walked out of the bookstore.
"Hey Jace, I'm sorry to call you like this, but my driver got stuck in a pile up and I'm in desperately in need for a ride, can you help me out?" I asked.
"Of course Clary. Give me 5 minutes." He said.
"Thank you so much." I said and we hung up. Dixie and I waited in front of the bookstore for Jace. Thankfully it was a nice night, so I wasn't worried about waiting too long, but that all came crashing down when I heard voices.
"Hey baby, what's a pretty little thing like you doing out here all alone?" The one asked. His speech was slurred.
"Yea, why don't you come join the party?" Another one asked. Their voices were getting closer.
"What's the matter baby doll?" Another one asked. God, how many guys where in this group? "Hey bitch, we're talking to you." He yelled and the next thing I know, I'm being thrown against my bookstore windows.
"Please leave me alone." I finally said.
"Oh, so now she talks." The one said. I could smell beer and cigarettes on his breath. "So, are you going to answer my question now or not?" He asked.
"I'm waiting for my boyfriend to pick me up." I said hoping that would work.
"Oh your boyfriend huh? Well I don't see him around now do I?" He asked as he pressed his body against mine. "Boys, grab the dog."
"No!" I yelled and they ripped Dixie away from me. She started barking loudly.
"Shut that mutt up!" He yelled and they tried to close her mouth, and in this moment I so desperately wished I had sight.
"Yo man, this is a service dog." The one guy said.
"So?" The man holding onto me asked.
"She's blind." The other guy hissed.
"Good. That means she can't identify us." He said venomously as he hands started to roam my body. I felt disgusting.
"Please stop." I pleaded but that just made him laugh. "HELP!" I yelled but he clamped his hand over my mouth.
"Shut the hell up." He hissed in my ear as he tongue made it's way from my ear down to my collar bone. Every second felt incredibly long. I just wanted this to be over. I felt like I was standing there being violated forever until I heard the sweet voice.
"Hey! Get the hell off of her." I heard Jace call and I felt like I was finally safe. The man holding me was violently ripped away and I sank onto the ground. I could hear Jace talking while Dixie made her way over to me. "What gave you the right to put your hands on my girlfriend?" He hissed and I just held Dixie close. "You think you can take advantage of her because she's blind? What kind of sick bastard are you?" He asked.
"Maybe she shouldn't be left alone at night." The guy said cockily. And I heard a sound that sounded like a bone cracking.
"She shouldn't have to worry about her safety when she's waiting for a ride." Jace said. "And maybe you should fucking respect women enough not to take advantage of them, regardless if they have a disability or not." Jace hissed. "Dixie, you want a go at him girl?" Jace asked and Dixie left my side for a moment before she was back. Sirens were in the background, and a moment later they were right next to us.
"Excuse, we got call about a woman in distress?" A man said.
"Yes officer, my girlfriend was waiting outside her store for me, when these low life's came and started taking advantage of her, and they knew she was blind due to her service dog." Jace explained.
"Is that her statement as well?" The officer said.
"One moment." Jace said and then I felt his hands on my cheek. "Do you want to go into details for the officer?" He asked.
"Only if you're with me." I said.
"I won't leave your side." He said. He lifted me off the ground and moved me over to where the officer was.
"Ma'am, can you tell me what happened?" He asked.
"I was waiting for Jace to pick me up, when those guys started calling to me. I didn't respond and they didn't like that." I said. "They took my dog and they figured out I was blind, and the man who Jace kindly beat up for me told his friends that it was a good thing because I wouldn't be able to identify them." I shivered at the idea, but Jace's arms were keeping me upright. "Than he started kissing me and licking me, and his hands were roaming my whole body. Than Jace showed up." I finished.
"Thank you ma'am." The officer said.
"They're taking them all away." Jace whispered in my ear. I nodded and than I was being lifted into his arms. "Come on Dixie." He said and I was being put in his car. Dixie got on the seat next to me and we were off. I wanted this whole night behind me. "Where will it be Clary?" Jace asked.
"I can go home with you?" I asked. "I don't want to be alone."
"Of course." Jace said and I was so lost in thought, that I didn't even realize that the car had stopped. Jace opened my car door, Dixie hopped out and than I was being scoped into Jace's arms. I felt safe in his arms. We made it through his house until I was being put on a bed. "Would you like some clothes?" He asked.
"Yes please." I said. I sat there for a moment waiting for Jace.
"Okay, here are some clothes, an extra toothbrush and toothpaste." He said and I nodded. "I'll see you in the morning." He said.
"Jace." I called out.
"Yes?" He asked.
"I can't be alone tonight." I said. "Can I stay with you?" I asked.
"Of course." He said and I was being lifted into his arms yet again. When we got to his room, it smelled just like him. I got changed, we both brushed our teeth, and we got into bed. Dixie was by my side the whole night. I don't know why, but I wormed my way over to Jace and he wrapped his arms around me instantly. "Clary." He said into the night.
"Yes?" I answered.
"Would you like to go on a date with me?" He asked and I couldn't' help but smile.
"I'd love to." I said. I felt him press his lips to the top of my head, and despite everything that happened tonight, this was a huge step in the right direction for Jace and I, and I couldn't wait to see where it went in the future.
Time Jump – Two Years Later
Jace POV:
"Sammy! It's time for school." I called up the stairs. If I thought she was tough when she was little, her being an official teenager was worse. I made my way into the kitchen where Clary was feeding the newest member of the Herondale family. "How are my two favorite people doing?" I asked as I kissed her forehead.
"We're the exact same as 5 minutes ago when you asked." Clary said and I rolled my eyes. "Don't roll your eyes at me." She said.
"How did you know?" I asked.
"Because I know you." Clary said and I laughed. We got married a year ago, and to say I was thrilled about the risk I was taking would be an understatement. Marrying Clary, and continuing to build this family with her was everything I could have ever wanted and more. "Don't forget, I have to go into work today, but it's only going to be for an hour or so. I just have to do some owner stuff." She said.
"Of course. I have a half day today, so I can meet you there, and we can do lunch." I suggested.
"That sounds amazing." Clary said. "But also remember, we promised to be at Sammy's school at 1:45 for that parents picnic." She reminded me.
"Shit, I forgot about that." I said.
"It's okay." She said.
"Do you still want to do lunch if we're going to a parent picnic?" I asked.
"Of course. I'm eating for three remember?" She said as she rubbed her rounding belly. Our youngest as of now was a little over 7 months, and when Clary found out she was pregnant again, we were stunned. I mean, Aiden was only 4 months old when we found out. And when the news dropped that it was twins, we were all just filled with more shock. But like I said, growing this family with Clary was everything, and Sammy loved her brother, and I'm sure she was going to love the twins as well. "And your mom will pick Aiden up from the bookstore so that your dad and her can have some time with him so we don't have to worry about him getting fussy during the picnic."
"You just think of everything don't you?" I asked and she laughed.
"One of us has to. For being super smart, you rarely plan anything." She said and I smiled.
"I'm a go with the flow kind of guy, I can't help it." I said. I pressed my lips to hers, and she smiled.
"Dad! I'm ready!" Sammy shouted and her and Pluto came running down the stairs.
"Good. Let's go." I said. " I'll met you at the bookstore." I told Clary.
"Sounds good!" She called out.
"Bye mom, bye Aiden." Sammy said as she gave them both a kiss. The moment Clary and I announced out engagement she asked if she could call Clary mom, and it meant everything to her, and it meant a lot to me too. We got into the car and I made my way other school. It was going to be a long day but I was excited to be spending the after noon with Sammy and Clary.
Time Jump – Four Hours Later
Clary POV:
"Jace should be here any minute." I told his mother.
"It's a good thing he found you. Punctuality isn't really his thing." Celine said and I laughed.
"Yea, I have to tell him everything starts 45 minutes before the actual time just so he's ready in time to actually leave for the correct time." I said and she laughed.
"I'm here." I heard. "I'm sorry I'm late." Jace said as I heard his footsteps gets closer. I felt his touch my shoulder and than he kissed me.
"Well, now that you're here, we can get going." Celine said.
"You didn't have to wait for me mom." Jace said.
"I figured you'd want to say goodbye to Aiden first." Celine said.
"You are so right." Jace said. "Bye little man, be good for Nanna." Jace said as I heard him kiss him.
"We'll see you at the house for dinner?" Celine asked.
"Of course mom." Jace said and they left. "You ready for lunch?" Jace asked.
"So ready." I said. We got into his car and made our way to the restaurant.
I was so hungry, but when wasn't I? I felt like I had two moods: sleepy, or hungry. And it's only going to get worse throughout this pregnancy. It was a lot different than I expected, but I don't even know what to expect with twins. I just hope they're healthy, and happy.
When we were done lunch, we had just enough time to get to the school for Sammy. We pulled up, and Dixie got out of the back, and we made our way to the lunch area. It as a nice day out, so everything was outside which was nice. We found Sammy immediately, and she was talking to some friends that she made.
"Hey Sammy." I said and she turned.
"You made it." She said and we both gave her a hug.
"Of course." I said. "What's a parents picnic without the parents?" I said and she laughed.
"Does Nanna or Grandma have Aiden?" Sammy asked.
"Nanna." Jace said. "We figured it was easier since we are going over there for dinner tonight."
"Cool. I miss them." Sammy said.
"I can guarantee they'll be around a lot when the twins are born." Jace said as he rubbed my belly.
"I can't wait!" Sammy cheered. "I love having siblings." She said and I couldn't help but smile. I was nervous at how she would react at first, but she loved Aiden, and I knew she was going to love the twins. She was the perfect big sister. "So, what do you want to do first at this picnic?" She asked.
"There are activates?" I asked.
"Of course. Not many for blind people, but hey, we'll just adjust. Like we always do." Sammy said and I pulled her into my side.
"You are so right." I said as I kissed her cheek.
"Heads up!" I heard and Sammy and I both ducked.
"Hey! Watch where you're throwing that! There are blind people here!" Sammy yelled and the whole picnic got quiet. After a moment Sammy and I started laughing.
"You two sure know how to make people feel awkward." Jace said as he pulled Sammy and I into his arms.
"I'm proud to be blind. Right mom?" Sammy asked.
"You are so right!" I said and our new thing was perfecting a high five. Both of us lifted our arms, at least I assume, and I tried and she started laughing, so she tried as well.
"You two are never going to get that down." Jace said and Sammy and I both playfully hit him in the chest, which caused him to laugh.
"Don't ever underestimate a blind person, we're a lot more resilient than you think." I said and Jace kissed my temple. And I stood by that statement more than anyone could ever imagine. We might have a disability, but that doesn't mean you can count us out.
Authors Note:
Okay, so awhile ago, someone asked for a one shot about Clary being blind, and this popped into my head the other day and I ran with it! Let me know what you think and leave a review! :)
Also, I know next to nothing about braille, and I don't even know if a entirely braille bookstore exists, or anything, so I just made it all up! But if it does exist, thats pretty cool! Basically, every thing in this story I made up except for the characters. But if they do actually exist, I promise I didn't know, and if they do, I don't own them at all!
Also, it's nearly 4 am where I am, and I did proofread, but I might have missed something, so please don't yell at me! I'm super tired, but wanted to get you all something!
Disclaimer: I don't own anything put the plot of this story, and honestly even thats not really mine since it was requested, but I just wanted to make sure that all the things that I mentioned in here aren't mine, but belong to other people!
