One Hundred and Thirty Eight One Shot:

Rivals

Clary POV:

If there was one thing in the world that was known within this town, it's that the Herondale's and the Morgenstern's didn't get alone. At all. The feud started back when James Herondale, and Roderick Morgenstern's friendship, or as some would say, brotherhood ended. The two were joined at the hips, until one day, they were enemies, the families have been rivals ever since.

Having an enemy is one thing, but having an enemy in the same town as you is kinda annoying. You can't go anywhere and escape. The Herondale's were always there, and always making a fuss about everything.

And of course when it came to rivals, each family had another family that stood in their corner. For the Herondale's, it was the Lightwood's. A family that had been in their corner since the whole feud started, and a family that was just as obnoxious as the Herondale's.

Alexander Lightwood, or Alec, was Jace Herondale's best friend. Always by his side, and never backing down in a fight if it came to that. If anyone saw the two of them together, you'd think they were related, that's how meaningful their friendship was to each other. Me on the other hand think differently. Jace was the biggest asshole in the town, and the more Alec hung around him, the bigger the asshole he became. Jace was a terrible influence on him.

Isabelle Lightwood was next. She was Alec's twin. Beautiful, and smart. But vicious as all hell. When it came to the rivalry, me and her were at odds more often than not. She was stuck up, and someone I would never associate with unless I was being held hostage. To put it lightly, the girl gets around, and honestly, crushing her in school was one of my favorite past times.

Max Lightwood was the last of the Lightwoods, and I was just praying they didn't corrupt that poor boy yet. He has a chance to be better than his siblings, but with the last name Lightwood, he was destined to be just as bad as the eldest two.

Finally, Jace Herondale was the biggest thorn in Jon's side that I've ever seen. Constantly picking fights with him, or insulting him. If you ask me, Jace Herondale was the scum of this earth, and the fact that we had to share the same town was a thought that made me want to scrub my skin in a boiling hot shower until I was down the to the bone.

"You ready for our senior year Clare?" Jon said breaking me out of my thoughts as we pulled up to school.

"As ready as I'll ever be." I responded. "It's time to get out of this hell hole."

"The school or, this town?" Jon asked as we grabbed our backpacks.

"Is there really a difference?" I asked and he laughed.

"I guess not." Jon said and I laughed.

We met up with Sebastian and Aline when we got into the school building. Now, the Herondale's may have the Lightwood's, but we had the Verlac's and the Penhallows. The two cousins loved to make their lives a living hell, and Jon and I were all for it. The only downfall is that Sebastian has had a crush on me since junior high, and I just can't seem to get rid of it.

"I can't believe we have to share a school with them." Sebastian said with disgust as the Lightwood's and the Herondale's walked in. He made sure he said it loud enough for them to hear.

"Feeling's mutual buddy." Jace said through the halls. "You and your band of whores from off the street. Do us all a favor, and get tested, I heard herpes is a nasty son of a bitch for a man with a fragile ego like yourself."

"Why don't you shut the hell up Herondale!" Jon shouted.

"What? He can't fight his own battles anymore?" Jace smirked. "What a bitch."

"Fuck you." Sebastian finally hissed.

"I didn't think I was your type." Jace laughed. "Alec might be interested though. Alec?" Jace asked and Alec laughed.

"Not even a gay man would go for that." Alec laughed. "Word on the street is you got a small dick." He laughed.

"What's going on here?" Mr. Porter said.

"Nothing. Just a conversation." Jace said before they walked away. Mr. Porter didn't look like he believed him, but went back into his classroom nonetheless.

"God, what a piece of shit." Sebastian seethed.

"Let's just get to class." I said. "We'll deal with them later." I said and they all nodded in agreement. It was the first day of school, and if this was what the rest of the year is going to be like, it's going to be one hell of a senior year.

Jace POV:

"God, I can't believe I have to share a classroom with her." Izzy scoffed. "I mean, who skips a grade?"

"Someone a little too attached to her brother." I said. "Don't you ever get a weird feeling about them?"

"You mean like, sexual?" Izzy asked.

"I don't know. I just get a weird vibe from the pair." I said.

"Ew. You think?" Izzy asked.

"I don't know. I'm just speculating." I said. "I fucking hate Jon, and Clary isn't that great either, but after this year we don't have to be stuck in the same building together. That's what I'm looking forward too."

"I can't wait to not see that carrot top after this." Izzy laughed.

"How sweet. You're talking about me." Came a voice and Iz rolled her eyes.

"Just stay over there, and don't talk, okay pippy?" Izzy sneered.

"Whatever you say Barbie." Clary smiled, but you could tell it was sarcastic.

"Please, Barbie has nothing on me." Izzy flicked her hair.

"Right, Barbie doesn't need a man to give her value. You on the other hand, how's Raphael, or was it Meliorn, oh wait no, it was Bat this week right?" Clary said in a fake voice. "I just can't seem to keep the straight." With one last smile she turned around. Izzy flipped her off just as the teacher walked in.

As class went on, I couldn't stop thinking about Clary. And no, not in the 'oh my god I love her' kind of way. But she was the biggest mystery in the Morgenstern family. I hated Jon, and her parents, but she seemed like she was guarded, feisty, but so guarded, and that was very fascinating to me.

Time Jump – Homecoming

Clary POV:

Homecoming was this weekend, and I had to be honest, I was kinda dreading it. Sebastian had asked me three times to go with him, and I couldn't keep rejecting him, but I didn't want to go with him. I wanted to go alone honestly, and not have to worry about a date, but he didn't seem to understand that.

"Seriously Jon, you need to talk to him." I said as we were in the car to go to school.

"Just say no again." Jon said.

"4 no's and he still doesn't get it? Come on Jon, you aren't stupid." I said and he laughed.

"I'll talk to him, let him know the deal." Jon said.

"Thanks Jon." I smiled. "So, who are you going with?" I asked.

"I don't know. I'm keeping my options open right now." He said and I laughed.

"You're such a player." I teased and he smiled and winked at me.

As the day dragged on, homecoming proposals were happening left and right. Nothing like waiting until last minute, but hey, at least they were asking. The end of the day came and I was so ready to go home. I grabbed my things and headed out to the parking lot to meet Jon, when I came face to face with Sebastian, and a huge banner that was asking me to homecoming. I looked over at Jon, who just shrugged and gave me a sad smile.

"Clarissa Morgenstern, will you please go to homecoming with me?" Sebastian said as he held out my favorite flower: daises.

"Sebastian." I said tentatively, until another banner dropped.

"Just kidding. I have another date." He laughed and I punched him in the chest.

"I fucking hate you." I hissed but he still laughed.

"You think I'd ask a fourth time? You're out of your damn mind Morgenstern." He smiled and that's when I looked at Jon, before punching him as well.

"What the hell was that for?" Jon asked.

"For encouraging him." I said.

"This was payback for saying no." Sebastian said with a smirk. "Gotta get my fill of embarrassing in as you embarrassed me by declining, three times." He explained.

"You're such a dick." I said but Jon and Sebastian continued laughing as they walked away.

"Boys are so immature." Aline said beside me and I couldn't help but nod.

"And those are the most immature of the species." I said before giggling caught my attention and I looked over to see Jace making out with some girl. "I stand corrected, that's the most immature, Jon and Seb are a close second though." I said and she laughed.

"You really don't want a date?" Aline asked.

"Not really. Not in the mood to answer to anyone all night." I explained.

"I'm not bringing a date either." Aline said.

"We can go together and have a great ass time." I said and she smiled.

"You're better than any date I'd ever take anyway." She smiled and I couldn't help but smile in return. Homecoming was going to be great, I knew it.

Time Jump – Christmas Time

Jace POV:

Since it was Christmas time, Cecilia and I were just aimlessly walking around the mall looking for something to get our parents, but also just getting out of the house while our parents hash out their problems.

"She's pretty." Cecilia said out of nowhere.

"Who?" I asked curiously.

"Her." Cecilia said, as she pointed in the direction of where she was looking, and that's when I saw familiar red hair.

"Do you know what that is Cec? That's a Morgenstern." I hissed.

"So? She's still pretty." Cecilia said rather annoyed. I looked over at Clary and she was laughing with Jon. Maybe Cecilia had a point, but that would never be spoken out loud to anyone.

We continued through the mall until we found something to get our parents, and the whole time, I really couldn't stop seeing Clary everywhere. It didn't look like she saw me at all, but obviously I didn't mind.

It was a rare occasion when I see Clary so carefree. At school she was so uptight, or feisty, neither really an issue, but seeing her constantly laughing, or smiling, was different, and even more intriguing.

"Come on Cec. Let's go." I finally said. We made our way out, and back home. As Cecilia sang her heart out in the car, my mind kept wondering to the red head that for some reason, wouldn't leave me alone.

Time Jump – Months Later

Clary POV:

Tonight has been the night from hell so it was a no brainer leaving town for a few hours.

Sitting in the dark, in a deserted park, listening to the wind blow the abandoned swings was a familiar feeling, almost like home, and right now, it was more inviting than my actual home.

I'd been here for nearly 2 hours alone when I heard the crunch of the leaves behind me. The figure was too far away to identify, but the minute I got a glimpse, my night got worse again.

"Get the hell out of here Herondale. I was here first." I spat, not wanting to deal with him tonight.

"It's a public park Morgenstern, I'm allowed to be here." He spat back at me. "Plus, I need to clear my head, and this is he place I come." He admitted and I had to admit, I completely understood that.

"Well, don't breath on me, and you can stay." I said and all he did was laugh before sitting in the swing right next to me. "Really? There is a whole park."

"Yea, but I usually sit here." He said naturally. "Which means, we aren't so different after all."

"Yuck. Don't compare me to a Herondale." I gagged.

"Please, you'd be lucky to be a Herondale." Jace scoffed.

"You're such a dick." I said as I shook my head.

"And you're angry." Jace said. "Everything okay?"

"Like I would confide in you." I laughed. "You'd probably go spill my life to everyone and humiliate my family."

"You take me to be that heartless of a prick?" Jace asked, and he sounded kinda wounded.

"You saying you don't think the same of me?" I asked instead of answering his question.

"Jon's a prick, but you, I'm still trying to figure you out." Jace said and I scrunched my nose at the insult to Jon, and the creepiness of his constant thinking of me.

"I'm glad you spend so much time thinking about me. Must be why you're a terrible student." I laughed getting my jab in.

"Terrible student? I'm on track to be valedictorian." Jace said and my jaw dropped.

"No you aren't. I am." I shot back.

"Than let the best Herondale win." Jace smirked.

"You can't be." I said, still shocked.

"Look, you and Iz battle it out with the grades. And she's a smart girl, but she isn't going to get valedictorian, hell she won't even get salutatorian." Jace admitted and I was kinda stunned.

"Why are you telling me his? Shouldn't you be telling me I'm stupid and Isabelle is way smarter?" I asked.

"Why would I do that? It's not true." Jace simply said.

It was quiet after that. I didn't know what to say and Jace clearly didn't want to talk, so that just left us with the wind. I wouldn't admit it out loud, but it was comfortable in the atmosphere. Almost calming being around him just being in the moment. It almost made me want to confide in him. Key word, almost.

"You know, if our parents didn't hate each other, I think we would have actually been friends." Jace said out of the blue and I looked at him shocked. "Jon and I are a lot alike. I have a feeling we'd get into a lot of fun shit together." He laughed.

"Too bad the Morgenstern's and the Herondale's have been at odds since our great great grandparents were kids." I added, reminding him that we weren't friends.

"Do you even know the truth about what happened between them?" Jace asked.

"Of course." I scoffed.

"I mean the truth not skewed by your family, or by mine." Jace said.

"What are you saying?" I asked curious as to where he was going.

"The Lightwood's have a completely different story. The correct story. Totally unbiased." Jace said.

"So why are they on your side?" I asked.

"Because our families have always been friends." Jace shrugged.

"So according to the Lightwood's, what really happened?" I asked curiously.

"Your great great grandfather stole my great great grandfathers girlfriend when they were 17. There's been bad blood ever since." Jace explained.

"Seriously? For that stupid reason?" I said, kinda annoyed it was the tiny of an issue.

"There was more to the story, but that's the gist of it all." Jace explained.

"Don't I deserve to know the whole story? It does involve me." I asked, wanting to know what really went down all those years ago.

"Do you have the time?" Jace asked.

"I've been out here for hours. I have nothing but time." I laughed and he cracked a smile.

"My great great grandfather and your great great grandfather we're friends from birth." Jace began as he looked at he sky. "Basically my great great grandfather fell head over heels in love with a girl in his school. Like, stupidly in love." Jace laughed.

"Like Kaelie's love for you?" I laughed and so did he.

"Even worse. My great great grandfather was ignorantly blissful and just never saw a fault in her." Jace said. "At 17, how serious is love though?" Jace rhetorically asked. "When you're ignorantly in love like that, something is bound to go wrong."

"And my great great grandfather took advantage of that ignorance and betrayed your great great grandfather." I said.

"Not entirely." Jace said.

"I'm so confused right now. Honestly." I said and Jace laughed.

"It was the girl." Jace said. "The bimbo played them both like a fiddle and they blamed each other."

"So she was a whore?" I asked.

"Also, not really that cut and dry." Jace said.

"This story has so many holes." I added and he nodded.

"Herondale loved her, with his heart and soul. Morgenstern loved the sex." Jace explained. "So when the girl decided she could get the love from Herondale and the sex from Morgenstern, she found the best of both worlds."

"So Herondale's are lovers and suck in bed so naturally the Morgenstern's picked up the slack." I smirked but Jace didn't react. "What's wrong?" I asked.

"The Lightwood's happened actually." Jace said. "And Herondale decided that he was going to move on. She was pretty, smart, down the earth. He was rebuilding his broken heart."

"What happened?" I asked, intrigued by the story.

"Morgenstern killed her." Jace said and my jaw dropped.

"How?" I asked.

"By accident. Herondale could never forgive Morgenstern after that. And this began the bad blood." Jace said and I really couldn't believe how skewed the story got over the years. "So now you know the truth."

"Wait, if the Lightwood's came in late, how do they know all of this?" I asked thinking about the story.

"The Lightwood's were always there, just another Lightwood came into the picture." Jace explained.

"Wow." I said. "It's crazy how messed up the story got. Especially on my side."

"What's your story?" He asked and I raised an eyebrow at him. "I'll tell you mine, if you tell me yours." He offered.

"That Herondale stole his girlfriend, his money, all his property, killed his sister, and turned the town against him, which ultimately led him to go mad and live the rest of his life in an insane asylum." I explained.

"Holy shit." Jace said and I laughed.

"It's intense." I said, and Jace nodded in agreement. "So, what's yours?" I asked.

"Morgenstern stole his fortune, ran away with his pregnant girlfriend, only later to kill the child, so he wouldn't have to raise his enemies offspring." Jace said.

"Wow. You Herondale's sure like a flare for the dramatics." I laughed and surprisingly so did Jace.

"In the end, it doesn't matter what the story is, our behavior is learned behavior, and we were always going to grow up this way." Jace explained. "We were always going to be enemies."

"I guess with so much bad history, this was inevitable." I said and Jace just nodded in agreement.

"So, why are you really out here?" Jace finally asked, and for some reason, god knows what it is, I feel like I can trust this kid, even though every thing I was taught tells me not too.

"My parents are fighting again." I simply said. "I didn't want to listen so I came here."

"You left town." Jace stated. "That's a little more than just a fight."

"You left town too." I pointed out. He raised his eyebrow at me and I sighed. "Like 7 years ago my mom cheated on my dad. She hid it for months, and my dad found out, and flipped. They've been at odds ever since."

"That blows." Jace said and I nodded.

"One reason I tried really hard in school." I added. "I wanted out of the house sooner rather than later, and skipping to Jon's grade meant I could do that."

"That's dedication." Jace said.

"Having Jon makes that house bearable. Without him, I'd go crazy." I said.

"I understand that." Jace admitted and I looked at him. "My parents haven't been in love for probably the past decade."

"That long?" I asked, kinda shocked.

"Cecilia was 2 when the fighting started, and she's 12 now, so yea, a decade." Jace explained.

"What caused the fights?" I asked curiously.

"I think they just fell out of love, and my mom started seeing my fathers shitty qualities and decided to call him out on them. Which in turn lead him to calling out all her shitty qualities, and the fights haven't stopped since." Jace said.

"Who knew we'd have the same problems." I said and Jace laughed.

"You know the really fucked up thing?" Jace asked.

"What's that?" I questioned.

"My parents haven't gotten a divorce because they don't want to let your parents win." He laughed.

"Win what?" I asked.

"Whatever competition they think they're playing." Jace said.

"You know, I think my parents are doing the same thing." I laughed when I thought about it. "They should have divorced after my dad found out, but it never even came up in conversation, or in a fight."

"Our parents are petty as hell." Jace laughed and so did I.

"I mean, we are also kinda petty." I pointed out.

"True, but we aren't being petty now." Jace said.

"You're right." I agreed. And just than I realized that I might not be so different from Jace Herondale than I originally thought.

Time Jump – Two Weeks Later

Jace POV:

It was an all too familiar feeling sitting on these swings with Clary. Although nothing has changed within our school, but out here, out here we weren't enemies, we were friends, and I liked it this way.

"Do you think this war will ever be over?" Clary finally asked.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"Between our parents." She said. "So they can finally let each other go and be happy."

"I doubt it." I said honestly. "The war between them is too important for them to give up."

"But why? It has nothing to do with them now." Clary said. "It happened centuries ago. They should just give it up."

"That's not the way of Herondale's, or Morgenstern's for that matter." I told her and she nodded in agreement.

"I wish we weren't as stubborn as we are. It would solve a lot of problems." Clary said, and now it was my time to nod in agreement. "Maybe one day."

"And how do you expect to stop this war?" I asked.

"I didn't say it had to be me. I just said maybe some day, it'll happen." Clary explained.

"How is it at home this time?" I asked and Clary sighed.

"My mom is actively pursuing a relationship with Luke, and my dad is not happy about it. Claiming she's shaming the Morgenstern name." Clary said.

"That's a bummer." I said and she nodded.

"Not the first time he's thought like that though." Clary said. "Why are you here?" She than asked.

"Dad missed Cecilia's parent teacher conference, and my mom is pissed about it." I explained. "They won't stop fighting, so I took her to a friends house and come here to clear my head."

"Just another day in the life of a Morgenstern and a Herondale." Clary laughed and I joined in.

"You can say that again." I said and she continued to laugh. There was something on the back of my mind for a little while now, and if I didn't do it now, I don't think I'd ever get around to doing it. "I have a strange question for you." I said to her.

"What's up?" She asked.

"This weekend, how would you like to go on a date with me?" I asked and her jaw visibly dropped.

"A date?" She questioned. "You want to go on a date with me?" She asked.

"Yea, I mean, I enjoy spending these nights together, but I'd like to step it up." I explained to her.

"And you aren't concerned at all that I'm a Morgenstern?" Clary asked.

"You're more than just a Morgenstern." I told her. "And I want to end this war just like you do, and what better way than to try and mend the broken bridges of our ancestors?" I said but she still didn't look convinced. "Look, I like you Clary."

"Really?" She asked. "You don't seem that way at school." She pointed out.

"You really think Jon would allow me near you?" I asked and that made her laugh.

"I guess you have a point there." She reasoned.

"The only question is, do you like me back." I said and she looked up at me.

"I tried so hard not to, but you're so different than I imagined you'd be." Clary admitted. "Although you are a huge prick to my brother."

"Ah, but he's a prick to me as well." I said and she smiled.

"I guess you're right." She smiled.

"So what do you say, Saturday night?" I asked.

"How are we going to pull it off?" Clary asked and in that moment, I knew it was a yes.

"We'll think of something." I told her and she nodded. Now all I had to do was think of a plan.

Time Jump – Date

Clary POV:

I was actually extremely nervous about his date, considering what we're about to do would be considered treason to our families. But with all this nervous energy I had, I was also extremely excited because I did like Jace, a lot more than I ever thought could happen.

But being a Morgenstern and him being a Herondale, Jace and I had to be a little creative with our date. Meeting there so we didn't have to go to either house and getting caught seemed like the way to go.

I drive listening to music thinking about what tonight could mean. The start of a new chapter for the Herondale's and the Morgenstern's, or a continued feud with even more hate. Either way, I was hella nervous and just trying to keep my emotions in check.

When I pulled up to the park where we agreed to meet, and I saw his silhouette standing there, and my entire body was on fire. Since he asked me out, and since I've been getting to know him, I've been seeing him in a different light, and that in and of itself is terrifying. Maybe this date will be the key to figuring it all out.

"Hey." He said once I got a little closer, the awkwardness was extreme.

"Hey." I said back lamely.

"Look, I know this is weird, and awkward, but let's just pretend we're back on the swings, talking like we do all the time." Jace said and that helped me relax a little.

"Okay." I smiled and I made my way over to him.

"I know this might not be the most impressive date, but we were limited." Jace said as we made it to the picnic blanket.

"If there is one thing you should know about me is that, I'm very simple." I admitted. "This is honestly perfect."

"Cool. I was thinking about what to do and I asked Cecilia about her opinion, and she told me to just follow my gut, and this was the result." Jace explained.

"You and Cecilia seem close." I said and Jace smiled.

"I didn't want a sibling at first. When my mom told me she was pregnant, I wasn't happy." Jace explained.

"What changed?" I asked as he handed us our food.

"I saw her, and she smiled at me, and I realized that I would never let anything happen to her." Jace explained with a smile on his face.

"That's incredibly sweet." I said. "And not something I would expect Jace Herondale to say."

"There are a lot of layers to me." Jace smirked and I laughed.

"I guess it's going to take more than one date to find all these layers?" I asked and he smiled.

"Only if you want too." Jace said, almost shyly. "It's completely up to you."

"I am enjoying myself right now." I said honestly. "So a second date is very possible." He locked eyes with me and my stomach ignited, I was going to enjoy getting to know all the layers of Jace.

Time Jump – One Month Later

Jace POV:

I was hiding in the janitors closet, like a typical high schooler trying to catch Clary walking by without Sebastian or Jon. It was a lot harder than I thought, but when I caught that glimpse of red hair, I snatched her into the closet with me.

"What the hell? Jace?" She asked.

"I couldn't handle it anymore." I told her honestly, and I saw the anger fade.

"I know what you mean." She said and I pressed my lips to hers.

"I've wanted to do that all day." I expressed and she smiled.

"Its torture keeping this a secret." Clary said.

"I know." I agreed. "But I don't think it's the right time right now."

"I agree that it's definitely not the right time, but that doesn't make it suck any less." Clary said.

"Park tonight?" I asked.

"I'll be there." Clary said and I gave her one last kiss, and the bell rang. "Perfect timing." She laughed.

"I'll see you tonight." I said and she slipped out of the closet. I couldn't get the smile off my face. As I walked to my next class I couldn't help but be happy with the progression of Clary and I's relationship. It was something I never knew we could have, but now that we did, nothing could break it apart.

Time Jump – Prom

Clary POV:

"Are you sure this is a good idea?" I asked for the hundredth time.

"This might be the worst idea I've ever had, but hell, who cares?" Jace laughed.

"Our families are gonna be pissed. You know that right." I said and Jace just pulled me into him, and I couldn't help but giggle.

"I like you Clary. A lot. I don't care what family feud started hundred of years ago. I want this. I want you, and I'm tired of pretending that I don't." Jace said and my heart started racing.

"I'm tired of pretending too." I said sincerely. "But this is one huge outing."

"We have two months of school left. I think the school won't combust because we're dating." Jace said.

"They might. A Herondale has never dated a Morgenstern." I pointed out.

"And a Morgenstern has never dated a Herondale. But things change, and I for one think this is a good change." He said before lowering his lips to mine. Shivers went down my spine just like they always do.

"Okay." I simply said.

"You ready?" He asked and all I could do was nod. He took my hand in his and we walked into the hotel where prom was taking place. At first, nobody even looked in our direction, but the minute the first head turned, a chain reaction of silence took over the building.

"What?" I decided to ask, in a rather high tone, but no one dared say a word, and when I saw Jon pushing through the crowd, I knew this might be a huge shit show.

"What the hell are you doing Clary? And why are you holding this pricks hand?" Jon said in an angry tone, one that was a lot more threatening than he probably meant, but Jace stepped in front of me, and pushed me behind him.

"I'd appreciate it if you kept your voice down." Jace warned him. Not liking that at all, Jon made his way over to Jace, eye to eye, neither backing down.

"Why don't we all go outside for a few minutes to sort all this out?" I offered, but neither moved. It wasn't until I grabbed each boy by the hand and dragged them out of the hotel that they finally stopped staring each other down. But when we got outside, Jace resumed his position in front of me, while Jon seethed a few feet away.

"Clary and I will explain everything, but you can't interrupt. We'll take questions at the end." Jace said, and Jon didn't like that one bit. Authority wasn't something he handled well, especially from his peers. "For a few months, Clary and I have been seeing each other, and before you blow up, we don't need, nor want your permission. She makes me happy, and I think that's all that should really matter to you." Jace said, but I could tell Jon wasn't convinced.

"Jon, I've hated keeping this from you, but he's not a heartless prick that you've come to know over the years. He's really a great guy, and he makes me happy." I admitted as I stepped around Jace, knowing Jon wouldn't hurt me.

"But Clary, he's a Herondale." Jon spat.

"Yea, and I'm a Morgenstern." I pointed out. "Our names don't define us, and if you ask me, our name has been ruining our family for generations."

"What happened in the past is over." Jace said. "The fact that this rivalry has lasted for this long, is pointless."

"How do I know you won't go pull some stunt like your shitty ancestors, and completely shatter her heart?" Jon asked.

"I'm a big girl Jon. I can take care of myself." I told him sternly. "And the truth about our ancestors is tragic, but not nearly as terrible as we've been told our entire lives."

"What does that mean?" Jon asked.

"It means, this feud started over a girl, and continued over the unfortunate death of my great great grandfathers girlfriend." Jace said. "And if you ask me, things worked out because without those events, we might not be here, and I for one, love where I'm at." Jace said as he pulled me into his side and I couldn't help but smile up at him.

"Than why have you been such an asshole since we were kids?" Jon asked Jace. "I mean seriously dude, you've been a douche."

"Because you got so worked up over it." Jace smirked and I smacked his chest. "Honestly, fighting with you has been the most pointless activity I've ever participated in, and I'm sad I've done it for 14 years." Jace admitted.

"I can't just forgive you. And I'm not happy you're dating my sister." Jon said as he crossed his arms over his chest.

"Like Jace said, we don't need, or want your permission. We're going to do what we want regardless because it makes us happy." I told him honestly. "But you deserved to know."

"Mom and dad are going to be pissed. I hope you know that." Jon said.

"Please, those two can't stop fighting each other these days to care about who I'm dating." I scoffed.

"Oh, but when they find out it's Jace Herondale, you know that'll be their first priority." Jon said, and I knew he was right. "And his parents aren't going to be happy either."

"If they can stop fighting long enough to notice, I'll be impressed." Jace said.

"Look, I'll need some time to get used to this." He said as he gestured to us. "But you're my sister, and I support you. No matter how idiotic I think your decisions are." I walked over and wrapped my arms around his neck.

"I think you and Jace could be really good friends Jonny." I said into his ear and he laughed.

"One step at a time there sis." Jon said and I smiled. "Now, why don't we go in and enjoy prom." He said and Jace and I both nodded. We made our way back into the hotel where the atmosphere changed once again.

"What?" I asked for the second time that night, but no one dared say a word.

"Move on people." Jon announced. "Or I'll make you." He said and everyone looked away. He looked back at me and winked before going to find his date. Jace gave my hand a light squeeze, and we adventured into our senior prom, probably more excited for the future than either of us had been before.

Time Jump - Ten Years Later

Clary POV:

If you told me 10 years ago that I would marry a man who was my sworn enemy, I would have laughed. Like I literally would have laughed because there is no way in hell I would have married Jace.

But here we are, together for 10 years, married for almost 4 and my life literally couldn't be more perfect if I tried.

The wedding was a little tense at first, but everyone agreed to put their differences aside for Jace and I, and when the reception rolled around, and people had a few drinks in them, the tension disappeared, and everyone had an amazing time. It was the best day in my life, and I think about it all the time, and just smile.

Changing my last name was probably the most difficult decision I've ever had to make. I'd been a Morgenstern my whole life, and the thought of being anything else was terrifying to me. Jace was super supportive of either decision I made, and I was really grateful for that because I didn't need that type of pressure.

I did however do what I do best, and weigh the pros and cons. It took me months, but in the end the pros outweighed the cons, and when we said 'I do' I was officially a Herondale. It was weird, and signing things after we were married took some getting used too, but I love the name, and I'm proud to have it.

Morgenstern would always be in the family though. When Jace and I had our first daughter, we talked about names, but in the end, we both knew she was going to be named Morgen. A tribute to my family, and a reminder that she had both Morgenstern and Herondale blood.

Our second daughter on the other hand, was way more difficult to name, because Jace and I didn't budge. We had a name each and we were determined to win. Naturally, I prevailed and our second daughter was named Tia.

For this third pregnancy, I decided to let Jace pick the name, on one condition though. The gender had to be a surprise. I don't really think my condition matter all that much to him anyway since he jumped at the opportunity, but he won't tell me the names, and I'm getting so annoyed with him.

"I think you need to calm down Clary, it's not good for the baby." Jon pointed out. I was so annoyed with Jace that I couldn't even be in the house with him anymore.

"But he won't tell me the names and I'm annoyed." I said once again.

"Are you worried he's going to name your child something stupid?" Jon asked.

"No, I know Jace won't choose a bad name, I just want to know." I said and Jon laughed.

"You never good with surprises." He said. "Maybe he hasn't picked them out yet, so he won't tell you until he has the final two." Jon said and I had to admit, that was a good observation.

"The baby is due in two weeks, how can he not have the final two yet?" I asked.

"Because naming a human is hard?" Jon said and I laughed.

"I just want to put the initials up in the nursery, and he's preventing me from doing that." I said and Jon reached over and took my hand.

"Everything is going to be okay Clare." Jon said truthfully. I sighed, but just than I felt intense pain, and I knew my water just broke.

"Jon, I need to go to the hospital." I said and his eyes nearly popped out of his head.

"Are you in labor?" Jon asked.

"Yea, and I need to get to the hospital." I said as I stood and Jon was right by my side. He lead me to the car and while in route to the hospital, I called Jace.

"Hey Clare, what's up?" Jace said happily.

"Get the kids, and meet me at the hospital, this baby is coming today." I said.

"You serious?" Jace asked.

"Yes she serious you giant prick." Jon yelled and I couldn't help but laugh.

"Tell that moron to shut up." Jace said.

"Just get to the hospital. Jon will be in the waiting room to watch the kids." I said and I hung up.

"You ready Clary?" Jon asked.

"This isn't my first rodeo, although I'm slightly nervous because I don't know what we're having, but I'm also excited because it'll be a surprise." I explained.

"You're an amazing mom, and as much as it pains me to say, Jace is an amazing dad." Jon said and I couldn't help but smile. "You two make a great team."

"We do, don't we?" I smiled and Jon rolled his eyes.

"I'll call the parents while I'm waiting for Jace and the kids to show up." Jon said. We got to the hospital and they wheeled me into a room as I waited for Jace to show up. Even though I was in pain, I couldn't get the smile off my face as we welcomed another little life into this world.

Jace POV:

Getting the kids ready was harder than I expected as they didn't want to leave the movie, but the moment I said they were going to see Uncle Jon, they were all excited. So as we got to the hospital and walked in, Jon was the first face we saw, and Morgen went running to him.

"If it wasn't my two favorite nieces." Jon said as he held both girls.

"Morgen, Tia, I want you to be good for Uncle Jon. Your mom and I will be out when your siblings comes." I said and they both nodded. "I love you both." I said as I gave them each a kiss.

"We love you too daddy." Morgen said and I couldn't help but smile. I made my way into the room where Clary was and even in labor, she was still the most beautiful woman I've ever seen.

"Hey baby." I said and Clary smiled at me.

"Hey." She said.

"How are you feeling?" I asked as I took her hand in mine.

"The drugs are finally kicking in, so I'm doing okay." She said and I nodded as I kissed the back of her hand.

"You're doing amazing, just like always." I smiled and so did she.

"I just want to find out what we're having, the name, and if he or she is healthy." Clary said and I nodded.

"Well, I finally came to a decision on names, so looks like I have perfect timing." I said and Clary laughed.

"Good, because I was getting nervous you were just going to name our child some generic unisex name, and than it wouldn't be special." Clary explained.

"Trust me, our child is going to a special name because him or her are very special." I said and she nodded before another contraction hit. I knew this was going to be a long labor.

Time Jump – 30 Hours Later

Clary POV:

"Tell me I'm close. Please tell me I'm close." I pleaded to the nurse who came in to check my progress.

"You're in luck my dear. I'm going to go tell the doctor you're ready to push." She smiled and I started crying tears of joy.

"Thank the angel. I really thought you were never going to have this kid." Jace said from beside me.

"Trust me, I thought I was doomed to be pregnant forever." I said and he laughed.

"I hear you are ready to push Clarissa." The doctor said as he walked in.

"I am beyond ready." I said and he smiled.

"Than lets get you this baby." He said as he sat down.

When the contraction hit, I knew I had to push with all my might, and right now I wanted this baby out as soon as possible. I didn't want to push for an our or two like I did with the first two, so I would do anything and push as hard as I could to make sure this one was quick.

"I already see the head Clarissa." The doctor said and I was relieved. "One more big push, and your baby should be here." He didn't have to tell me twice before I was pushing even harder in round two.

"You're doing great babe." Jace told me from the side.

"Almost here Clarissa." He said and I gave one hard push and I heard the crying. I laid back and began crying myself.

"You're amazing." Jace said before kissing my sweaty temple.

"Congratulations Jace and Clary. You are the proud parents of a healthy baby boy." The doctor said and my heart swelled.

"I finally get my son?" Jace asked. The doctor nodded before handing him over to us.

"Congratulations again you two." He said before walking out. I looked down at my son and couldn't believe it.

"I can't believe we finally got a son." I said and Jace smiled.

"I can't believe it." Jace all but whispered.

"Now, what is his name? I've been dying to know." I said and Jace laughed.

"I figured I would keep it in the family, just like Morgen." Jace explained. "But combining our families, just like we did by getting married."

"And what did you come up with?" I asked.

"William." Jace smiled. "William Matthew Herondale."

"William." I tried it out. "I love it."

"And Matthew comes from your side. Way up high, although it's from your moms side, but that's a minor technicality." Jace laughed.

"How do you know so much about my family tree?" I asked with a laugh.

"I talked to your dad and mom about it." Jace explained.

"Well, it's absolutely perfect." I said and he kissed my head before kissing our son. "What did you pick for the girl?" I asked curiously.

"Lucie Seraphina Herondale." Jace said.

"I love both of them." I said, really appreciating how much thought he put into these names.

"I love the idea of combining our families in more way than marriage." Jace explained. "And of course now our kids have both blood, but names are more public than blood lines."

"You are so right." I agreed.

"Should I get the family?" Jace asked.

"Yea." I said. "I'm ready."

"Be right back." Jace said before he left the room. I looked down at my perfect little baby boy and couldn't help how blessed I was feeling. Everything was so perfect that I didn't care that I just went through 30+ hours of labor. It was all worth it.

"Is my sibling here?" I heard and when I looked up there was Morgen.

"Your brother is right here." I said as I emphasized the word.

"You had a boy?" Jace's mom beamed.

"We had a boy." Jace said proudly.

"What's his name?" Cecilia asked.

"William. William Matthew Herondale." I said just as he yawned.

"He is absolutely perfect sweetheart." My mom said as she kissed my head.

"You did good sis." Jon congratulated.

"Thanks Jon." I said.

"Can I hold him?" Cecilia asked and I nodded. Jace picked him up and our son went around the room.

Jace took his seat back on the bed with me as we watched William get passed around. Our parents were helping Morgen and Tia hold their little brother and I leaned into Jace's shoulder and he kissed my head again.

"I love you." I said and I felt him smile into my hair.

"I love you too." He whispered back.

"Thank you for giving me this amazing life." I said and he pulled me closer.

"I told you that you'd be lucky to be a Herondale." He smirked and I smacked him.

"Jerk." I laughed.

He wasn't wrong.

Authors Note:

This one practically wrote itself, so don't expect another one for a little while since I can't seem to finish any other story that I'm working on as well.

This one came out of nowhere simply because I don't think I have one about rivals that's this way, and I wanted one like this. So I hope you enjoy, and let me know! :)