One Hundred and Forty Four One Shot
Back Up Singer
Clary POV:
"You can't give up Clare." Simon said as we were out for lunch.
"I've been the backup singer for artists who always flop for years Si. I can't keep doing this." I admitted. It's been a rough couple years.
"Than give it one more year." Simon pleaded. "You have too much talent to throw it away. Something will open up. And you'll get it."
"Okay, one year." I said and he smiled with satisfaction. It's not like I wanted to give up my job, it's just I needed something more stable if I wanted to be able to eat on a daily basis. "I gotta go Si. I'll see you later."
"Bye Clare." He said and I walked out of the diner.
Being a back up singer wasn't the most glamorous life all the time. I've been struggling to keep a job for years, and I would really like to have something solid by now. I'm almost 23, and I've worked with at least a dozen artists that just haven't worked out. Some couldn't handle it and quit, others got dropped by the label, and a few weren't even alive anymore. I wanted to throw in the towel, but Simon was right. There has to be something out there for me, and I'll be damned if I don't keep looking for it. This was my dream, and I wasn't going down without a fight. Hell no.
Time Jump – One Year Later
Clary POV:
I have been on cloud 9 for about 3 days now. Just as I was running out of steam I was called about a possible job for Izzy. Not my standard music, but I would take anything these days. Country wasn't my department per say, but I'll learn everything about it in order to get this job.
The audition was in 2 hours and I was a nervous wreck. Pacing all the time, and resting my voice as much as possible so that it didn't suck on the day I needed it. There were about 200 women here trying out for the 2 spots opened, and to say the odds didn't seem like they were in my favor would be an understatement, but I wasn't going down until they heard me, and that was a promise.
"This is the most nerve wracking audition of my life." One girl said next to me.
"I know the feeling. I've never been to one that had me like this before." I agreed.
"I'm Lydia." She said as she offered her hand.
"Clary." I said as I shook it politely.
"How long have you been in the business Clary?" She asked.
"I started when I was 17, so about 6 years." I counted. "What about you?" I asked.
"About 6 months." She said and my eyes widened. "This is my 20th audition, and I haven't been lucky."
"Trust me, I'm the queen of rejection and failure in this business." I laughed, but I don't think that helped her at all. "But there is always a job out there for you. Just keep looking no matter what." I encouraged, and she nodded. The fact that she was here only after 6 months in the industry is crazy, but if this worked out for her, I would still be super happy because struggling is never fun, and I wouldn't wish it upon anymore.
"Clarissa Morgenstern?" Someone called out. And I stood up.
"Good luck." Lydia said and I smiled.
"You too." I said and I walked in.
"Please state your name, and age." The one woman said.
"I'm Clarissa Morgenstern, preferably called Clary, and I'm almost 23 years old." I said.
"And what song will you be singing today?" She asked.
"Whiskey Lullaby, by Brad Paisley ft. Alison Krauss." I said and she nodded. Country was the only option when it came to this audition, at least in my mind that is.
She put him out like the burnin' end of a midnight cigarette
She broke his heart, he spent his whole life tryin' to forget
We watched him drink his pain away a little at a time
But he never could get drunk enough to get her off his mind
Until the night
He put that bottle to his head and pulled the trigger
And finally drank away her memory
Life is short, but this time it was bigger
Than the strength he had to get up off his knees
We found him with his face down in the pillow
With a note that said, 'I'll love her till I die.'
And when we buried him beneath the willow
The angels sang a whiskey lullaby
The rumors flew but nobody knew how much she blamed herself
For years and years she tried to hide the whiskey on her breath
She finally drank her pain away a little at a time
But she never could get drunk enough to get him off her mind
Until the night
She put that bottle to her head and pulled the trigger
And finally drank away his memory
Life is short, but this time it was bigger
Than the strength she had to get up off her knees
We found her with her face down in the pillow
Clinging to his picture for dear life
We laid her next to him beneath the willow
While the angels sang a whiskey lullaby
When I was finished, I honestly felt like that was the best performance that I've ever given in any audition that I've ever had, so I felt fairly confident.
"We'll call you when we know." Was all the woman said and I nodded and left the room. As confident as I felt, that comment made me feel like I royally screwed up, so who knows how this was going to go.
Time Jump – One Week Later
Clary POV:
"Simon Lewis!" I yelled as I ran into his apartment.
"What's on fire?!" He immediately yelled as he woke up.
"I got the job! I got the fucking job!" I screamed. "I'm going to be back up for Izzy!"
"Oh my god! That's amazing!" Simon said as he scooped me up into his arms. "I told you it would all work out."
"I really thought it was over for me." I admitted.
"You have to have more faith in yourself Clare. You're an amazing singer, and now the world gets to hear it." Simon said and I couldn't help but give him a hug.
"I have to be in LA by the end of the week." I said and Simon nodded.
"I'll get the boys, and we'll make this happen." He said and I just got so giddy. "This is going to be an amazing career Clary. Just you wait." He said and I nodded. I couldn't wait for the future with this job.
Time Jump – Three Years Later
Clary POV:
"Last stop on the tour. How are we all feeling?" Izzy asked us all.
"Pumped." Meliorn, one of her back up dancers, responded. "I love ending in London." The group nodded in agreement. Ending in her hometown was the best couple shows on every tour.
"Glad to hear it." Izzy smiled. "Get some well deserved rest. I need every single one of you for this tour. I couldn't do it without you all." Izzy smiled before dismissing us. Working for Izzy has been the biggest blessing of my life. Not only was she selling out stadiums all over the world, but she was truly an amazing person. I couldn't ask for a better boss.
Time Jump – First Show In London
Clary POV:
Tonight was going to be a wild night because every show in Izzy's hometown always was. But they always made for the best shows. Nothing like performing in front of little girls, that just want to be like her, and hell, maybe like me, and getting to put on an amazing show for them means everything to me. It's mostly why I love my job so much.
"You ready for this?" Lydia asked as we took our spot. When I found out she got the other spot, I was thrilled that we would be going on this journey together, and experiencing it all for the first time.
"More than ever." I said as the lights went off. The music started, and the crowd went wild.
It feels like a perfect night to dress up like hipsters
And make fun of our exes, uh uh uh uh
It feels like a perfect night for breakfast at midnight
To fall in love with strangers uh uh uh uh
Yeah
We're happy free confused and lonely at the same time
It's miserable and magical oh yeah
Tonight's the night when we forget about the deadlines, it's time uh oh
I don't know about you but I'm feeling 22
Everything will be alright, if you keep me next to you
You don't know about me, but I bet you want to
Everything will be alright, if we just keep dancing like we're 22, 22
It seems like one of those nights
This place is too crowded, too many cool kids uh uh, uh uh
It seems like one of those nights
We ditch the whole scene and end up dreaming instead of sleeping
Yeah
We're happy free confused and lonely in the best way
It's miserable and magical oh yeah
Tonight's the night, when we forget about the heartbreaks, it's time uh oh
I don't know about you but I'm feeling 22
Everything will be alright if you keep me next to you
You don't know about me, but I bet you want to
Everything will be alright if we just keep dancing like we're 22 uh uh ah ah ah 22 uh uh uh
I don't know about you, 22 uh uh 22 uh uh
It feels like one of those nights
We ditch the whole scene
It feels like one of those nights
We won't be sleeping
It feels like one of those nights
You look like bad news I gotta have you, I gotta have you ohh, uh, yeah
I don't know about you but I'm feeling 22
Everything will be alright if you keep me next to you
You don't know about me but I bet you want to
Everything will be alright if we just keep dancing like we're 22 uh uh, 22 uh uoh,
22 uh uh, yeah, 22 uh uhoo, yeah yeah
It feels like one of those nights uh uh
We ditch the whole scene
It feels like one of those nights uh uh
We won't be sleeping
It feels like one of those nights uh uh
You look like bad news I gotta have you, I gotta have you
"Hello London!" She said after she was done, and the place went ever crazier. "It does feel like a perfect night, and I can't wait to share it all with you." She said and the music started again. This was probably going to be the craziest show on the entire tour, and I was so ready for it.
Time Jump – A Few Hours Later
Clary POV:
As the band got a chance to just solo for a little as we did a little quick change and got some well deserved water, I saw Izzy zoom past me and into the arms of a man I've never seen before.
"I can't believe you actually made it." She giggled as they continued to hug.
"For the first time in years I'm not away on business, I didn't want to be anywhere else but here." He said and at that moment Alec walked up to the group.
"Welcome home bro." He said as he gave him a hug. I knew they had another sibling, besides Max, but I honestly was beginning to believe he didn't exist because he never came around.
"As much as I'd love to stay and chat, the band is almost done with their solo and they need me." Izzy said as she gave him one last hug.
"I'll be here when it's over." He said with a golden smile.
"Good." She beamed. "Come on ladies, time to shine." She said once she passed Lydia and I. I nodded as I got my jacket back on, but my attention was on the blonde bombshell that was standing 10 feet away.
Time Jump – After The Show
Jace POV:
As I watched the show from backstage, I couldn't take my eyes off the redhead. I noticed her earlier when I first saw Izzy, and her striking green eyes bore into mine like she was trying to mark her territory, but if I'm being honest, I don't mind one bit.
The show was amazing, but I expect nothing else from Iz. Alec and her both put their heart and soul into their jobs, so a half assed show wasn't even in the cards for them. I'm just glad that I finally got to make it to one. Every single year when she ends a tour in London, I'm across the world on a business trip, and I never get to see her, but tonight was a pretty perfect night.
"Did you enjoy it?" Alec asked as we walked back to Izzy's dressing room.
"It was amazing. But I knew it would be. Izzy wouldn't let her show suck." I said and Alec laughed.
"That she would not." He agreed. "But she wants to go bigger, so we're going bigger."
"How can she possibly go bigger?" I asked in disbelief.
"She wants to change her sound a little. Which she's doing a very good job at with her new album." Alec added.
"Didn't she just release one?" I asked.
"Year in January. And since January is just around the corner again, she wants to drop another one so we can start planning the tour for July." Alec said.
"Doesn't she want a break?" I asked.
"Breaks are for the weak. I'll sleep when I'm dead." Izzy said as she walked in. "Plus, my fans deserve it. Did you see that place? Sold out in 5 minutes. And I added a show just for them, which also sold out. They want to see me, and I love making music. So why not."
"Don't ware yourself out Iz. You need rest at some point." I reminded her.
"I'll have rest. In March. I give myself that month off every year, and I enjoy it, but I love my job." Izzy explained.
"Don't lie, you only give yourself off March because it's your birthday." Alec laughed.
"You want me to work straight through?" Izzy asked.
"No, I'm glad you take a month, I'm just saying, it's not only for rest, it's because you treat yourself that entire month." Alec smiled.
"I deserve it." Izzy simply said, and I really couldn't argue with it, because I agreed. "Now, I want to talk about why Jace couldn't keep his eyes off one of my back up singers." She wiggled her eyebrows.
"I don't know what you mean." I said playing dumb.
"Oh please. I knew the moment you saw that red hair you were a goner." Izzy laughed.
"Okay, she caught my eye." I admitted.
"Gonna talk to her?" She asked.
"I was thinking about it, but than I realized, it would be weird for me to just approach her." I admitted.
"No it wouldn't. you're my brother and she works for me." Izzy said.
"Yea, but just approaching her backstage is a little weird." I said and Izzy nodded.
"Than you'll just have to introduce yourself at our annual End of Tour party." Izzy smiled. "New Years Eve."
"They don't go home for the holiday?" I asked.
"Most of them don't really have anywhere to go." Izzy admitted.
"That's depressing." I said.
"I know. When I got this group of insanely talented artists, the first tour we ever did ended and I noticed a lot of them weren't booking it to the airport, and calling family members to wish them a happy holiday." Izzy said. "So I decided that every year, we would have a huge End of Tour party that gave everyone the sense of family during the holidays so they didn't have to spend it alone, and it just kinda stuck."
"You're amazing Iz." I said and she smiled.
"Tell me something I don't know." She flipped her hair dramatically, and we all started laughing. It was good to be home with these two again.
Time Jump – New Years Eve Party
Clary POV:
The party was in full swing but for some reason, I just wasn't feeling it this year. I don't know why, but party and me just weren't on the same page. So as everyone enjoyed their time inside, I was on the balcony enjoying the amazing view of the city.
"Beautiful isn't it?" I heard from behind me. I was so startled I almost dropped my wine glass.
"It's quite a view." I admitted. When I finally looked at him, it was the golden man from the concert.
"I didn't mean to scare you." He laughed, and I couldn't help but smile.
"It's okay. I really wasn't expecting company." I admitted. He made his way over to the railing and joined me.
"Not feeling the party scene tonight?" He asked.
"Not really." I admitted. "Just not in a party mood I guess."
"I'm Jace by the way. Izzy's brother." He said as he held out his hand.
"Clary. Izzy's back up singer." I said as we shook.
"It's a pleasure to meet you Clary." He said.
"You as well, although I'm surprised we didn't meet sooner." I said and he laughed.
"It seems every single time Izzy has a concert here, I'm half way around the world on a business trip." He said. "Our time finally arrived, and I wasn't away."
"That's always nice." I said.
"How long have you been singing with Izzy?" Jace asked.
"3 years." I said. "Longest time I've ever held a job." I laughed.
"Really? Why is that?" He asked.
"A lot of talented artists don't make it, and that means their band, and their singers don't make it either." I admitted. "I was about to give up when I got the job for Izzy."
"I'm glad you didn't give up." Jace said genuinely.
"I'm glad I didn't give up either." I laughed. "She's the best boss I've ever had. I don't want to sing for any other artist."
"Izzy is pretty great." Jace smiled. "She wasn't always that way though."
"Really?" I asked, completely shocked.
"In the beginning of her career, she was super high strung. Very bossy, and very anal about how she wanted her shows to work." Jace explained. "I guess that's what happens when you don't struggle to get to the top. Izzy kinda just went straight there, she never had to endure the struggle."
"Struggling isn't that great either." I admitted.
"No, but it helps mellow you out." Jace said. "Izzy needed a reality check, and thankfully she got it."
"I've worked for some high strung artists in my day, even if Izzy was like that she still would have been better than them." I laughed, and so did Jace.
"Come on everyone! The ball is about the drop!" Jace and I heard Izzy shout from inside. Everyone gathered around the TV, but I didn't move, and neither did Jace.
"Ten!"
"Nine!"
"Eight!"
"Seven!"
"Six!"
"Five!"
"Four!"
"Three!"
"Two!"
"One! Happy New Year!" Everyone cheered. The fireworks started to ignite and I looked up at Jace.
"Happy New Year Clary." He said and I smiled.
"Happy New Year Jace." I said and before I knew it he was moving closer, and his lips were on mine. Call me crazy, but it was the best damn kiss I've ever experienced. We finally broke apart, and I had to admit, I didn't want it to end.
"How long are you planning on staying in London?" Jace asked.
"I hadn't thought about it." I said honestly.
"Long enough for a proper date?" Jace asked and I laughed.
"Definitely long enough for a proper date." I smiled and so did he. I had no idea how this was going to turn out, but I was looking for to this new adventure.
Time Jump – Two Years Later
Clary POV:
"I can't believe you're doing it." Simon said as we loaded the last of my boxes up.
"I can't believe I'm doing it either, but it feels right." I smiled.
"And your tour starts when?" Simon asked.
"Izzy's tour starts when it always do. Last week of July." I told him for the umpteenth time.
"Sorry, I just can't believe you're moving." Simon said.
"Love makes you do crazy and reckless things." I laughed. "I'm gonna miss you Si."
"I'm gonna miss you too Clary, but we both know this is for the best." Simon said as he got up and gave me a hug.
"And you're actually gonna make it to a show this year?" I asked and he laughed.
"I promise I'll make it." Simon said.
"Good. I'll see you soon Simon." I said with one final hug.
"See you soon." He said and than I was off.
I took a cab to the airport, and I was heading for my new home. Moving was terrifying enough, but moving countries, and having to start over was something I wasn't used too. But I do have Jace, and I couldn't do it without him. I know we might have very conflicting work schedules, but if I get to go to bed with him more often than not, everything will be worth it.
Time Jump – Six Hours Later
Jace POV:
I was more anxious to get out of the office today, knowing Clary would be at our new house waiting for me. It was crazy knowing that I get to go to bed next to the love of my life tonight, and wake up next to her tomorrow, without a flight looming over our time together.
I just finished up with what I needed and I couldn't pack up fast enough. Normally I would leave the office late at night, close to 9 or 10, but with Clary coming today, when 5 hit, I was officially done for the day. I grabbed my jacket, and my briefcase, and I was gone.
"Mr. Herondale." I heard and I stopped. "You're heading home early." Aline said and I nodded.
"I have some personal business to handle, so I'm taking some time." I explained. Not wanting to give away my personal life to anyone. I liked being the boss that nobody knew about.
"Will you be in tomorrow?" She asked.
"I'll let you know." I said and she nodded. "Have a good night Aline."
"You as well Mr. Herondale." She said and I was out.
I got into my car and headed home hoping that Clary was already there so I could take her in my arms and never let her go. I think I hit every single red light that this town as to offer, and I got stuck behind ever slow driver in this country because getting home took twice as long, but once I pulled into my driveway, nothing else mattered. I opened the door and was hit with the aroma of food from the kitchen, and when I walked inside, there she stood.
"You're home." I said and she turned around with the brightest smile on her face.
"I'm home." She said and that's all it took for me to run over to her and scoop her up into my arms.
"I'm so glad you're here." I whispered into her hair.
"I'm glad I'm here too." She said and I put her down. "My stuff should be coming within the next week, so keep an eye out."
"You got it." I said. "And you didn't have to cook us dinner."
"I wanted to." Clary said. "I wanted us to have our first meal in our new home to be home cooked."
"I have no complaints." I smiled and so did she.
"Than set the table, dinner will be ready in 5 minutes." She smiled and I gave her one last kiss.
"I love you." I said so honestly.
"I love you too." She said before she went back to cooking. This honestly couldn't be a better start to our future, and I was so ready for it.
Time Jump – Two Years Later
Clary POV:
Going to this function with Jace was the most nerve wracking experience, and I sing in front of thousands of people all the time. I've never been around this many wealthy people before, but I knew I was in good hands with Jace.
"Don't feel obligated to impress any of these people." Jace whispered in my ear. "I only come to these things because I'm the CEO and it would be weird if I didn't come." He explained and I nodded in response.
The place was spectacular. The most elegant dresses I've ever seen. The most expensive suits I've ever seen. Pretty much the most money I've ever seen in one room was here tonight, and my brain honestly couldn't fathom it all.
"Mr. Herondale, wonderful to see you." A man said to Jace.
"You as well Mr. Starkweather." Jace greeted him formally. "I'd like to introduce you to my girlfriend, Clarissa."
"It's lovely to meet you Clarissa." He said as he took my hand in his.
"You as well, and please call me Clary." I smiled.
"As long as you call me Hodge." He answered, and I nodded politely. "And this is my wife, Margret."
"Lovely as always Margret." Jace greeted the woman.
"Such a charmer." She greeted Jace. "And it's wonderful to finally meet the leading lady in your life." She looked at me.
"Our work schedules conflict a lot." Jace explained.
"What do you do for work?" Margret asked.
"I'm in the music industry." I replied. "I'm actually the back up singer for Izzy."
"Oh, our daughter adores her. Wait until we tell Sam that we met Izzy's backup singer." Margret beamed. That made me feel so much better. "Life must be so interesting."
"I've been in the industry a long time, so I'm used to the crazy, but Izzy is an amazing artist and always makes tours fun and different." I explained. "I couldn't think of a better person to work for."
"As long as you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life." Hodge states and I couldn't agree more.
"That's why you gotta stick to your guns and go for the impossible." Margret agreed with a bright smile.
"If you'll excuse us, we're gonna get a drink." Jace said.
"Of course. Have a lovely evening." Margret said. With one last mod, Jace and I made our way over to the bar.
"Feeling better?" Jace whispered to me.
"Yea." I answered honestly.
"Champagne for the lady, and scotch on the rocks for me." Jace said to the bartender, who nodded and got our drinks quickly.
"Jace." Someone said from behind us, and when we turned around, there stood a group of women.
"Ladies." Jace greeted them.
"We didn't think you were going to show. At least, not the way you left the office." The blonde one said.
"I always come to my own functions. What kind of boss would I be if I didn't show?" Jace smiled back at the group. "Plus, what happens at the office stays at the office. No need to bring that to a party." Jace explained as his arm rested on my side.
"We also didn't know you were bringing a date." The Asian one noted as she saw his arm resting on my hip.
"Of course. This is my girlfriend Clarissa." Jace said proudly. "These are a few of the secretaries." He said to me. "Aline in particular is mine." He said about the Asian one.
"Oh. How long have you two been together?" The blonde one asked.
"It'll be 4 years this New Years." Jace said proudly. "Now, if you'll excuse us ladies, I think it's time for a dance." Jace said as he set his glass down and held his hand out for me. I put my glass down and gladly accepted. "How are you feeling?" He asked.
"Better." I said honestly. "I was super overwhelmed when we got in here, but I feel better now."
"Good. I told you not to worry." Jace said as he spun me around the dance floor.
"You can't blame me. I've never been around this many wealthy people." I said and he laughed.
"You work in the music industry. You're around wealthy people all the time." He laughed.
"Yea but this is a different kind of wealthy." I explained.
"I see your point." Jace said and I smiled. "You're breathtaking tonight, by the way."
"Thank you." I said as I blushed. "You look pretty good yourself." I leaned forward and pressed his lips to mine as we continued to sway to the music. My nerves slowly disappeared throughout the night and with a little help from the champagne, the rest of the evening went by so smoothly, I barely remember making it home.
Time Jump – New Years Eve
Clary POV:
"Hello New York City!" Izzy cheered into the mic as we performed for the New Years Eve celebration. It was the first year she was invited, and to say it was a mad house would be an understatement, but it was so much fun. "Let's have some fun!"
There's somethin' bout the way
The street looks when it's just rained
There's a glow off the pavement
Walk me to the car
And you know I wanna ask you to dance right there
In the middle of the parking lot
Yeah
We're drivin' down the road
I wonder if you know
I'm tryin' so hard not to get caught up now
But you're just so cool
Run your hands through your hair
Absent mindedly makin' me want you
And I don't know how it gets better than this
You take my hand and drag me head first
Fearless
And I don't know why but with you I'd dance
In a storm in my best dress
Fearless
So baby drive slow
Til we run out of road in this one horse town
I wanna stay right here in this passenger's seat
You put your eyes on me
In this moment now capture it remember it
And I don't know how it gets better than this
You take my hand and drag me head first
Fearless
And I don't know why but with you I'd dance
In a storm in my best dress
Fearless
Well you stood there with me in the doorway
my hands shake
I'm not usually this way but
You pull me in and I'm a little more brave
It's the first kiss, it's flawless, really something, it's fearless.
And I don't know how it gets better than this
You take my hand and drag me head first
Fearless
And I don't know why but with you I'd dance
In a storm in my best dress
Fearless
By the time I was finished singing, I was speechless. Jace was in front of me, on one knee.
"The first time I laid eyes on you, I knew you were the one." He said and I couldn't stop the tears. "You are my world Clary, and I don't want another day to go by without you being my wife." He said and I couldn't help the laugh that escaped my lips. "Clarissa Morgenstern, will you marry me?"
"Yes." I said and he sprung up and pulled me into a kiss.
"Ten!"
"Nine!"
"Eight!"
"Seven!"
"Six!"
"Five!"
"Four!"
"Three!"
"Two!"
"One!"
"Happy New Years Mrs. Herondale." Jace smirked and I couldn't get the smile off my face.
"Happy New Years Mr. Herondale." I said back. I couldn't wait for life to begin with Jace.
Time Jump – Two Years Later
Clary POV:
"I'm going to miss you Clary." Izzy said as we continued to hug.
"I wouldn't do it if it weren't necessary." I admitted. "You've been my job for the past decade, not singing with you is gonna be so weird." I laughed, and so did she.
"I understand." Izzy smiled. "Just make sure this little bundle of joy comes into the world happy and listening my music." She said as she rubbed my belly.
"I already have a hospital playlist, and you consume about 97% of it." I admitted to her.
"And the other 3%?" She asked.
"Jace's music. I figured she should have a little chance of liking his kind of music." I said and we both burst into a fit of laughed.
"How kind of you." She said almost in tears.
"Hey, I'm pushing her out, I get the majority." I laughed with her.
"Couldn't agree more sister." She said and a quiet calm came over us. "Call me the minute your water breaks. I don't care what city I'm in, I'll fly back."
"I wouldn't dream of anything else." I said and the joyful tears were gone, and replaced with tears of sadness. "And if you start crying, you know I'm going to cry."
"It's just going to be really weird without you here." Izzy said as she tried to keep her tears from falling.
"I'm not going anywhere Iz." I told her honestly. "Hell, I married into your family. You have me forever. And who knows, maybe in a few years, when you need a new backup singer, I'll be there auditioning."
"You don't ever need to audition again. You want the job, you have it." She laughed.
"We have to keep appearances up. No favoritism just because we're related." I joked, and she laughed along.
"Well, I should go." Izzy said.
"Have an amazing tour Iz." I said and she smiled.
"Have an amazing birth." Izzy said and I laughed.
"Love you girl." I said as I pulled her into one last hug.
"I love you too." She said as she boarded the plane. I took a deep breath and headed back to Jace.
"You okay?" He asked.
"Yea, just weird that I'm not getting on that plane with her." I said honestly.
"Once this little one is in the world, we can take her to as many Izzy concerts has we want." Jace said and I couldn't help but laugh.
"You have yourself a deal." I said and he took my hand in his.
"You wanna get some dinner?" He asked.
"Yes. I'm starving." I said and we left the airport and headed towards our favorite place to ear, ready for this next adventure.
Time Jump – Birth
Jace POV:
Clary went into labor last night, and still hasn't given birth. To say I was an anxious mess would be and understatement because I have no idea how to be a father. I lost mine so young, and than I spent most of my time in foster care, and lets be real, Robert wasn't the best father figure.
"Why are you pacing in the hallway?" I heard and when I turned around there stood Izzy, Alec, and Magnus.
"Because Clary is scary as hell when she's in pain." I said honestly.
"She's pushing out your child Jace. Of course she's in pain, but right now, she's in pain alone." Izzy said and I never thought about that.
"Shit." I mumbled before I ran into the room.
"Where were you?" Clary yelled at me.
"Welcoming in the Calvary." I said as I opened the door.
"You're here." Clary said as they all made their way in.
"I told you I wouldn't miss it. Finished my show, and got on the first plan from Australia." Izzy said as she gave her a hug. "How close are you?"
"I don't know. Nurse?" Clary asked the woman in the room.
"You're at 9 centimeters Mrs. Herondale." She said pleasantly.
"You're so close." Izzy beamed, and I made my way to her bedside.
"You're doing amazing Clare." I said as I kissed her head.
"How would you know? You've been out in the hallway." Clary sneered at me.
"I'm sorry baby, I'm just nervous." I admitted.
"So am I." Clary said. "I lost my mother young, and my dad was barely around. I don't know how to be a parent."
"We'll give you two some space." Izzy said as they left the room.
"I didn't know you were so scared." I told Clary honestly.
"I'm terrified Jace, which is why I need you here with me." Clary said.
"I promise, I'm here." I said as I gave her a sweet kiss.
"Alright Mrs. Herondale, let's check on you." The nurse said. She did what she needed to do before smiling at the two of us. "You're fully dilated. I'll go get the doctor."
"I'm gonna be a mom." Clary said and it hit me.
"I'm gonna be a dad." I said at the sudden realization.
"Alright you two, whose ready to be a parent?" The doctor said as she made her way in. "Now Clary, when I say push, I need you to push as hard as you can."
"Okay." Clary said and I took her hand in mine.
"Next contraction, push." The doctor said. Clary nodded, and waited for it to hit. Once it did, she let it go, and I couldn't stand hearing Clary in pain, but the end was going to be amazing, and I was looking forward to that.
Time Jump – After Birth
Clary POV:
As I looked down at my beautiful baby girl, I couldn't believe that I was actually her mom. That I carried her into the world, and now I get to love her forever. It was beyond amazing, and I couldn't wait to go on this journey with Jace.
"Knock, knock? Can we come in?" I heard and there stood the group.
"Of course." I said and they all filed in, Jace bringing up the rear.
"She's beautiful." Izzy said as she made her way over to me. "What's her name?"
"This is Esme Isabelle Herondale." I said and Izzy started to cry. "Please don't cry, cause than I'm gonna cry."
"I just can't believe you named her after me." Izzy said.
"You have been a huge part in my life for so long. You brought Jace and I together, you gave me a job when I lost hope, and you are my sister. I couldn't think of anyone better to name my daughter after." I explained and she hugged me. "Wanna hold her?" I asked and she nodded excitedly.
"She's so tiny." Izzy said as she looked at her.
"We were hoping you'd be her godmother." I asked.
"Um, yes." Izzy said with the biggest smile on her face. "I'd be honored. Who is my counterpart?" She looked at Alec.
"Not me sis." Alec said.
"Than who?" Izzy asked.
"My childhood best friend, Simon." I said. "He should be here soon He stopped to get dinner for all of us."
"We finally get to meet the infamous best friend?" Izzy laughed.
"He really tried to make it to a show. I swear." I said as I remember all the shows missed with that one. Just than, the door opened.
"Dinner is served." Simon said as he walked in, but his focus wasn't on me, but on Izzy. "Oh. There are more people here."
"I told you Izzy and her siblings were coming." I said to him.
"I guess I forgot. My best friend just had a baby after all." He said and I laughed. "But I brought you a burger from your favorite place."
"You're an angel." I said as he handed me the bag.
"So you're my partner." Izzy said and I could tell Simon was confused. "My godparent partner. I'm her godmother."
"Oh, yea. I guess we are." Simon said.
"I'm Izzy." She said as she held her hand out.
"Simon." He said as he shook it.
"Nice to meet you." Izzy said and there was something that was lingering between them that I couldn't quite pinpoint, but something was happening.
"So, who want's to eat?" I asked and as if I planned it, Esme started to cry, and we all started laughing. I couldn't wait for this group to experience the journey Jace and I were about to embark on.
Time Jump – Two Years Later
Clary POV:
As I stand next to Izzy on the stage, I can't help but smile at how amazing my life has become. Esme was a terrible two year old, but the cutest two year old you've ever seen. Jace was completely wrapped around her finger, and she knew it. But I couldn't complain.
We were in the process of having another one, not pregnant yet, but trying, and I couldn't wait to expand out family. Although it would be challenging, there isn't anyone else on this planet that I wanted to go through this with than Jace. We had our fair share of problems, but we always got through them.
Surprisingly Simon and Izzy were a thing now, and have been for nearly 2 years, and I couldn't be happier. Simon moved out here a couple months ago, and I was happy to have a piece of home here with me. Plus Simon was super happy, and I couldn't help but support my two best friends.
"Alright London, are you ready for my new song?" Izzy cheered out to he audience and they all cheered. "Than lets jam!" She said and the music started.
This ain't for the best
My reputation's never been worse, so
You must like me for me
We can't make
Any promises now, can we, babe?
But you can make me a drink
Dive bar on the East Side, where you at?
Phone lights up my nightstand in the black
Come here, you can meet me in the back
Dark jeans and your Nikes, look at you
Oh damn, never seen that color blue
Just think of the fun things we could do
'Cause I like you
This ain't for the best
My reputation's never been worse, so
You must like me for me
Yeah, I want you
We can't make
Any promises now, can we, babe?
But you can make me a drink
Is it cool that I said all that?
Is it chill that you're in my head?
'Cause I know that it's delicate (delicate)
Is it cool that I said all that
Is it too soon to do this yet?
'Cause I know that it's delicate
Isn't it? Isn't it? Isn't it? Isn't it?
Isn't it? Isn't it? Isn't it? Isn't it?
Delicate
Third floor on the West Side, me and you
Handsome, your mansion with a view
Do the girls back home touch you like I do?
Long night, with your hands up in my hair
Echoes of your footsteps on the stairs
Stay here, honey, I don't wanna share
'Cause I like you
This ain't for the best
My reputation's never been worse, so
You must like me for me
Yeah, I want you
We can't make
Any promises now, can we, babe?
But you can make me a drink
Is it cool that I said all that?
Is it chill that you're in my head?
'Cause I know that it's delicate (delicate)
Is it cool that I said all that
Is it too soon to do this yet?
'Cause I know that it's delicate
Isn't it? Isn't it? Isn't it? Isn't it?
Isn't it? Isn't it? Isn't it? Isn't it?
Delicate
Sometimes I wonder when you sleep
Are you ever dreaming of me?
Sometimes when I look into your eyes
I pretend you're mine, all the damn time
'Cause I like you
Is it cool that I said all that?
Is it chill that you're in my head?
'Cause I know that it's delicate (delicate)
Yeah, I want you
Is it cool that I said all that
Is it too soon to do this yet?
'Cause I know that it's delicate (delicate)
'Cause I like you
Is it cool that I said all that?
Is it chill that you're in my head?
'Cause I know that it's delicate (delicate)
Yeah, I want you
Is it cool that I said all that
Is it too soon to do this yet?
'Cause I know that it's delicate
Delicate
"Thank you so much London!" She cheered, and we all made our way off stage.
I made a beeline for Jace and Esme, who was basically passed out on his shoulder, while Izzy made a beeline for Simon.
"You were amazing." Jace said to me. "Esme couldn't take her eyes off you."
"Oh really?" I laughed as I gesture to her.
"She literally just fell asleep." Jace laughed.
"I know. It's pretty late." I said and she started to stir. She opened her tiny eyes for a second, saw me, and reached for me. I gladly accepted.
"Bed time?" Jace asked and I smiled.
"Bed time." I agreed and he took my hand in his and we made our way out of the stadium and back home. As I stared at out the window, I couldn't get the smile off my face. Being a back up singer was the best thing that's ever happened to me, and I truly couldn't be happier.
Authors Note:
Let me know what you think! I'm really trying to finish these as fast as humanly possible, and I've had a lot of time on my hands.
Disclaimer - I down't own the songs. Fearless, and Delicate belong to Taylor Swift, and Whiskey Lullaby belongs to Brad Paisley, and Alison Krauss.
