Hi everyone! So I'm back Sorry for not updating, I just found that I ran out of time to write and then had to get back into it. But here is the next chapter for all you lovely people! Just to warn you, there will be a bit of angst in this chapter.
Disclaimer: I don't own the characters from TMI or the music.
Chapter 18
Will You Take Me Home?
"Jace, are you sure this is a good idea?" Alec queried, sighing over the phone as he stared out through the window of the hotel room. "I mean, with Mags and I just announcing our relationship and Izzy's huge news with her love life-"
"Alec, man, chill." Jace stated bluntly, sounding slightly frustrated. "It's for charity. It'll just be a little bit of fun."
"Jace, a lip sync battle does not sound fun to me. It sounds like a recipe for disaster." Alec hissed into the phone. "Plus, there's so little time to prepare for it!"
"Dude, it doesn't have to be perfect. It's literally just a thing I thought we'd give a shot for the charity. It's important to me." Jace insisted softly, causing Alec to hesitate at Jace's sudden seriousness.
"What charity?" Alec questioned gently, running a hand through his hair.
"Selflessness for Strays." Jace informed him quietly, with an uncharacteristic sombre tone. Alec felt his heart drop in his chest as soon as he heard the name of the charity. "It's really important to me, Al."
"The charity for orphans?" He suddenly understood Jace's desire to participate in the charity event. Alec rubbed the front of his forehead, where a headache was beginning to form. Despite every bone in his body protesting the concept of being filmed stupidly dancing to some random song, he found himself giving into Jace's request. "Okay, I'll do it."
"Seriously?" He could practically hear Jace's grin. "Thanks so much, man."
"Yeah, yeah," Alec shrugged awkwardly, even though his adopted brother couldn't see it. "You're organising all of it though."
"I think you mean my manager." Jace corrected with a laugh, causing Alec to roll his eyes.
"You know what I mean, Jace." Alec said firmly, leaning against the window frame. "If I'm doing this, you're arranging it."
"Of course," Jace conceded, returning to a more mature sounding tone. However, Alec could still practically hear the grin that was covering his adopted brother's face. "I'll let you know what song you have too."
Alec groaned, already regretting the decision to agree to the event. "Nothing terrible, I hope. Please tell me you won't be choosing my song?"
"No promises." Jace snickered, before hanging up the phone on Alec before Alec could question which part he wasn't promising to.
Alec moved the phone away from his ear and glared at it, "this better be worth it."
"What better be worth it?" A voice purred from the bathroom, as Alec whirled around to see Magnus leaning against the bathroom door frame, a smirk gracing his face.
Alec felt his heart stutter as he took in his boyfriend's leather pants, boots and purple silk shirt with most of the top buttons undone, displaying parts of Magnus' chest and multiple shinny necklaces. Magnus' hair was gelled back, with blue streaks throughout it. His cheekbones sparkled in the light, due to what he told Alec was called highlighter. Magnus' lips were painted a dark purple, finishing off the look the fashion student was going for.
After not speaking for a moment too long, Magnus quirked an eyebrow at the singer, who finally spluttered out an answer. "Oh, Jace convinced me to participate in some charity event."
"What will you be doing?" Magnus queried, slowly strolling towards Alec with his arms crossed over his chest. "Is it time to see my boyfriend do something scandalous? Oh how long I've been waiting for this moment, darling."
"So kissing you in front of everyone at your university ball didn't count as scandalous?" Alec kidded lightly, causing Magnus to roll his eyes and uncross his arms. Magnus released a dramatic sigh, as if Alec had made the most silly comment ever.
"Alexander, you really need to re-define your version of scandalous." Magnus teased, reaching down and grasping Alec's hands in his own. "Perhaps I can help you with that task."
Alec couldn't help the smile that rose to his face when Magnus grabbed his hands, nor the blush that coloured his cheeks at the later comment. He gently linked their fingers together, biting his lip shyly. Magnus couldn't help the fond smile that formed on his face as he watched his boyfriend self-consciously explain the phone call with Jace. "Jace has organised it so that we will be doing a lip-synch battle."
Magnus' eyes widened before he chuckled, "oh, I see. What shall you be dancing to? Madonna? David Bowie? Perhaps even something more…daring?"
"Nothing daring, and do not get involved in this, Magnus Bane. The last thing I need is to end up swinging from the ceiling in a pink leotard." Alec stated quickly, seeing the cheeky look on his boyfriend's face. "No! No getting any ideas. I don't know what I'll but doing, but there's only so much I can do."
"Hmm, so your brother is organising this?" Magnus checked, biting his lip when Alec nodded cautiously. "I better go make a call then."
Magnus gave Alec a quick kiss, hiding his grin when Alec was left with purple lipstick on his own lips. The fashion student winked before releasing Alec's hands. He strutted away before Alec could protest. The singer stared after him, gulping heavily. "Uh oh."
Wrapped up, so consumed by all this hurt.
If you ask me, don't know where to start.
Aline stood on the stage, her black dress shimmering in the stage light as she clutched the microphone tightly. It felt like the only thing keeping her upright was the microphone stand. Her feet were wobbly in her black pumps. Her palms were damp with sweat. The stage lights felt unusually bright, as her chest felt tight and constricted.
Anger, love, confusion,
Roads that go nowhere.
I know that somewhere better,
'Cause you always take me there.
It had been two days since Alec and Magnus announced their relationship to the world. Two days in which Aline found herself constantly feeling conflicted. She kept her eyes away from the side of the stage, where Helen stood, hidden from view. Her gorgeous girlfriend was dressed in a loose white dress with a black belt wrapped around her waist. Her long white gold curls were lose, except for a few braids she had done. In Aline's eyes, she looked ethereal. Helen watched Aline sing, a proud look on her face and a giddy smile.
Came to you with a broken faith,
Gave me more than a hand to hold.
Caught before I hit the ground,
Tell me I'm safe, you've got me now.
Aline closed her eyes, non-stop memories and thoughts circulating throughout her head. She fought hard not to bring these memories back into her mind, but it was too late. Her throat tightened as she remembered Helen laughing on their first date. The way it felt when her family caught them kissing outside their house. How Helen's body felt pressed up against her own, the two of them sweaty and tangled up in bed sheets as the blonde placed a jovial kiss on Aline's nose. The way she'd hug her from behind or randomly gently fix her hair.
Helen treated her so differently from Axel had. Her touches were gentle and loving. Axel's had been controlling and harsh. When Helen kissed her, it was passionate and loving. Axel's were dominating and cold. Aline and Axel's public personas were fake. She remembered the red carpets where they appeared to be a doting couple, yet the pressure of his vice grip on her hip will never be forgotten. The constricting feeling of his lips travelling up to her ear as he'd grunt, "keep smiling or you'll regret it later."
Would you take the wheel,
If I lose control?
If I'm lying here,
Will you take me home?
The worst nights were ones where he'd go to parties and come home drunk at four in the morning. They were the nights where she'd have to muffle screams or lock herself in the bathroom until sunrise. For months, concealer became her biggest friend.
Could you take care of a broken soul?
Will you hold me now?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home?
And after their break up, she viewed herself as worthless. After all, that's what Axel would call her as he'd grip her hair tightly and spit in her face. And yet, somehow, someone as worthless as her found someone as special as Helen.
Hold the gun to my head, count 1, 2, 3.
If it helps me walk away then it's what I need.
Every minute gets easier,
The more you talk to me.
You rationalize my darkest thoughts,
Yeah, you set them free.
Aline never expected to fall for Helen the first moment they met. All she remembers is the feeling of her breath being taken away when she walked into the same room. The way it felt so right to be close to the blonde. The way all she wanted to do was hold onto Helen and never let go.
Came to you with a broken faith,
Gave me more than a hand to hold.
Caught before I hit the ground,
Tell me I'm safe, you've got me now.
Aline took the microphone out of the stand, striding towards the edge of the stage and trying to clear her mind of the memories. She knew it was nowhere near her greatest performance – her voice was edgy from emotion. And yet, when she glimpsed at Helen again, the woman still appeared to be entranced by the music. She sent her a brief smile, which somehow, Helen managed to return with her own.
Would you take the wheel,
If I lose control?
If I'm lying here,
Will you take me home?
Off to the side of the stage, Helen continued to watch her girlfriend until a tall figure came up behind her. "It's sort of sad that you have to stay on the sidelines, hidden away."
"Mark, what do you want?" Helen sighed as her brother came into view.
"Just checking on my big sister." He shrugged, leaning against the wall. "Seriously though, Hel-"
"I heard you the first time," Helen grumbled under her breath. "It's none of your business."
"Yes, it is," he insisted quietly. "You're my sister - your happiness is my business."
"I'm happy." Helen stated calmly, but her stormy eyes betrayed her statement.
"Yet, you'd be happier if you two were public, wouldn't you?" Mark questioned deeply, crossing his arms over his chest. "It's not right, Helen."
"It's not that." Helen sighed, her posture falling slightly. "I think she's hiding something from me."
Mark's eyes went back to his sister's girlfriend, watching her closely. He paused, biting his lower hip before whispering, "what do you mean?".
Could you take care of a broken soul?
Oh, will you hold me now?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home?
"She wrote this song at four in the morning. She didn't realise I woke up as soon as she left the bed." Helen started gently, her eyes softening. "I could hear her sobs after every verse…and sometimes, there's certain things she's very secretive about. Or certain actions she responds to in a more unusual way."
Mark straightened up, his back muscles immediately becoming tense. "What actions?".
"If I come up behind her unexpectedly or touch her when she isn't anticipating it, she flinches. She tries to not to, but I still see it." Helen swallowed thickly, trying to mask her hurt. "I think she's hiding something from me."
"Have you tried talking to her about it?" Mark asked carefully, purposefully avoiding his sister's eye.
Helen shook her head, causing strands of silvery blonde hair to escape her ponytail. "There hasn't been a good time to bring it up."
You say space will make it better,
And time will make it heal.
I won't be lost forever,
And soon I wouldn't feel
Like I'm haunted, oh, falling.
Aline's voice cracked and wobbled, the camera that was focusing closely on her face showed her eyes watering. A single tear fell and travelled down her cheek, smearing eyeliner and mascara. The audience was completely silent, probably taking in the emotional performance.
Would you take the wheel,
If I lose control?
If I'm lying here,
Helen held her breath as Aline suddenly bellowed the song out, strength and power in her vocals. And yet there was something else – pain. The singer angrily brushed the tear track away, her face hardening.
Will you take me home?
Mark hummed, his face blank. "I see what you mean. Are you okay?"
Helen gave him a dark look, her jaw grinding and eyes turned to slits. "As I have already said many times before, I'm all good."
"I don't believe that," he muttered, giving Aline an unreadable look. "You deserve so much more."
"What are you going on about?" Helen grumbled, raising an eyebrow. She shook her head and added, "I'm happy, let's leave it at that."
"You sure about that?" Mark questioned quietly, only to be met with silence. He licked his lips before running his hand nervously through his hair. "Look, I have to go and call Dad, but I'll check on you later."
Helen nodded in response, her eyes on her girlfriend. Her fingers came up to absentmindedly trace against the corners of her lips. "Talk later."
Her brother hesitated before carefully placing his hand on her shoulder, "I'm here if you need anything."
Helen looked up at him slowly, their eyes connecting. She reached up and squeezed his hand in silent thanks. Mark eventually took his hand off her and walked away, leaving Helen to herself.
Could you take care of a broken soul?
Oh, will you hold me now?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home, home?
Oh, will you take me home?
Oh, will you take me home?
Aline lowered the microphone as the crowd roared. The stage lights lit up. She forced a smile and waved as the T.V. presenter took her place on stage to end the show. Aline could feel Helen's eyes, still drilling into her.
Simon strode down the street, wearing a beanie, old pair of jeans, dirty converse and a buttoned-up shirt. He had his ear buds in his ears, playing some of his favourite tunes while he headed in the direction of Clary's place. The two best friends decided to hang out – just like old times, before the Lightwoods came into their lives. Simon turned onto Clary's street, seeing her practically leap down her front steps. Her fiery red hair shone in the sunlight, as little strands fell out of her loose braid. In typical Clary fashion, she wore paint stained jeans and a denim jacket, with ink staining her fingers. Simon hurriedly removed the ear buds from his ears and spread his arms out wide.
"Hey you," she giggled, throwing herself at Simon and encasing him in a tight hug. Her red hair tickled his neck as she sighed into his neck. "I've missed you."
"Hey," Simon returned the embrace with his own. "I've missed you too."
"Taki's?" Clary suggested hopefully, releasing him.
"Just like old times," Simon agreed, winking down at her before the two made their way down the street.
"So what's been up in your world?" Clary asked, watching Simon closely as he shoved his hands in his pockets.
"A fair bit," he admitted sheepishly. "I didn't realise that making things public with Izzy would also…"
"Make your life a whole crazier?" Clary provided, giving him an understanding look.
"Exactly!" Simon waved his arms in the air, jumping slightly with the movement. "Don't get me wrong, I'm loving every moment with Izzy and I have no regrets with becoming public. It's just a big difference. Before I was Simon Lewis, the nobody waiter at an unknown diner with a love for video games. Now I'm Simon Lewis, boyfriend of one of the biggest models in the world, who is also from one of the most famous families in the world. The other day I had some random girl ask me for my autograph! It's been crazy."
"No pressure," Clary teased gently, elbowing him lightly in the side.
Simon swallowed and said tightly, "no, none at all. Plus, it's hard. She's away so much now, because of filming Demons."
"You'll be alright, Si. I'm sure she's struggling just as much. From what I've seen, the public love you and Iz." Clary insisted sweetly, before her expression was taken over by something a little darker. She kicked at the pavement and crossed her arms over her chest as they continued to walk. "At least you guys can go in public. Jace and I are still hiding it."
"Speaking of that charming Lightwood," Simon muttered, somewhat sarcastically. "Other than having to hide everything, how is it going with him?"
"Good," Clary hummed, brightening up a little before she dimmed again. "We don't speak as much currently, since he's busy filming as well. Plus, with the whole public thing...I thought by him dancing with me in front of people at the concert Alec did, he would soon say he would be happy to share our relationship status. Apparently not. Looks like I was wrong there.""
"You're still happy, though? I don't have to go all kung fu panda on him for hurting you?" Simon clarified, eyeing his childhood best friend.
Clary gave him a genuine smile, "yes, I'm still happy. Also, I really don't want you trying to take Jace on in a fight - especially if you're trying to mimic a chubby panda."
"Just checking. Don't you believe I could take Jace on? I so could. Anything for you." Simon grinned, tugging her closer to his side. "Now let's go get us some coffee."
Clary giggled, "of course, lead the way."
Magnus and Camille sat on his sofa, sipping ice tea and flipping through magazines. A picture of Jace and Max in costume for Demons was on the front cover of Magnus' whilst Camille's focused on beauty tips. The television was on, providing background noise for the two best friends, who were both waiting for the talk show, 'Lunch with Ladies', to start after the ad break. Magnus was trying to stop nervously bouncing on the sofa, due to the fact that his boyfriend was supposed to be on the T.V. for an interview. Camille, who was accustomed to Magnus' rare display of nervousness and was therefore able to ignore the non-stop bouncing, clicked her tongue when her phone went off. She reached down and snatched it, her eyes narrowing on the screen.
"Oh my God, they caught me on a bad day again!" She whinged, throwing her phone back onto the sofa. "This is the third time this month, you'd think I'm the one dating a Lightwood."
"The paparazzi?" Magnus questioned, not even waiting for her to reply before adding, "did you see the huge front page article on a magazine they did a few days ago? Apparently, it's a big deal that I was buying milk and eggs."
"At least it wasn't a pic of you pigging out on donuts. Ragnor won't let me forget about this." Camille groaned. "Don't get me wrong, I'm glad you're happy…but why did you decide to date someone famous? As your best friend, they're stalking me too now."
"At least you can still use public bathrooms. Can't even pee without people trying to report it." Magnus grumbled, taking a sad sip of his drink.
Camille rolled her eyes pointedly, "Magnus Bane, we both know that you refused to use public bathrooms to begin with."
"Yes, but now I don't have the luxury of deciding to reject them, I'm forced to!" Magnus complained loudly. "And I can't easily touch up my make up anymore."
Before Camille could respond, the T.V. suddenly blared the theme song of 'Lunch with Ladies', before a smiling brunette popped up on the screen.
"Hello everyone, and welcome back to the show! Now let's get straight into gossip. Did anyone expect the huge announcement from Alexander Lightwood this week?" The reporter queried passionately, turning to her co-workers. Her brown curls bounced with the movement. "I certainly didn't!"
"It was such a shock for us all, Bells." A blonde haired woman chimed in, nodding seriously in agreement. "A romantic one, nonetheless."
"So for those of you who are living under a rock," another woman addressed the camera directly. "Alexander Lightwood recently publicly announced his relationship with Idris University fashion student, Magnus Bane. The two shared a dance at the Idris Ball, before confirming their relationship with a kiss."
"Now, isn't that the stuff fairy tales are made from?" Bells added, smirking at the camera before continuing. "Before we get further into this juicy topic, we decided to surprise all our amazing viewers by interviewing a very special guest: the Alexander Lightwood himself. Alexander, how are you?"
The screen split into two, showing a grinning Alec, dressed in a black leather jacket and white t-shirt. Magnus sat up straighter, beaming at the screen as his boyfriend spoke charmingly. "Hi ladies, I'm great, thank you for asking."
"Now Alexander, to start off, congratulations on your relationship! I assume you and Magnus are happy?" Bells started excitably, causing Alec to chuckle.
"Thank you for the well wishes. Magnus and I are very happy." He replied sweetly, shifting slightly in his chair with a faint blush on his cheeks.
"Enough with the superficial stuff, let's go straight to what we all want to know – how did you and Magnus meet?" Another woman interjected loudly, shuffling papers in her hands.
"This probably doesn't sound real," Alec began cautiously, "but we met in a diner when my siblings and I were trying to escape paparazzi. My sister went to speak to him to talk about how amazing his makeup was and…I guess the rest was history."
"But what made you talk to him?" Bells pushed eagerly.
"He saved me from an…overly keen fan." Alec worded carefully, his eyes straying from the camera for a moment. "And we just got talking."
"Could you say it was love at first sight?" The blonde haired woman asked.
"Cheryl always annoys me," Camille muttered to Magnus under her breath while Alec tried to think of his answer.
"Cheryl?" Magnus repeated, raising an eyebrow.
"The blonde lady." Camille explained, and Magnus gave her an understanding look in response before turning back to the T.V.
Alec hesitated, lowering his eyes for a second and licking his lips. "In some ways, I'd say yes. I just remember seeing his eyes and…that was that. He had my attention from the first moment. So yeah, I'd call it attraction at first sight. It wasn't until I spoke to him that I really found myself feeling true feelings."
"Speaking of Magnus, how is he handling dating such a huge celebrity?" Bells questioned softly, suddenly appearing a lot more considerate and gentle.
"He's doing a lot better than what I could have ever asked of him." Alec answered, completely honest. "I think it's a major change for him – he's suddenly being followed and having people recognise him on the streets."
"Freaking paparazzi," Magnus grunted to Camille, sipping his ice tea. "I wish they'd let me pee in peace."
"I know he recently had a bit of a nasty shock when people followed him into a bathroom and tried to corner him there though." Alec winced, remembering the phone call from his slightly frightened and very shocked boyfriend. "But Magnus has a very strong, vibrant personality. I think even if he didn't date me, one day he'd be a famous fashion designer, so he'd be receiving this treatment anyway."
"Speaking of Magnus' future in the fashion industry," Bells continued, ruffling through a pile of papers. "I heard a little rumour that your sister will be wearing one of his designs on the Idris fashion show."
Alec let out a surprisingly real and happy laugh. He licked his lips and nodded, a smile on his face. "That is correct. Isabelle is showing off one of Magnus' designs."
"And how do Magnus and Isabelle feel about this?" Cheryl queried excitedly.
"They're both looking forward to the experience. I think it will be a lot of fun for both of them, and I'm sure Isabelle will flaunt Magnus' dress with pride. And with Magnus' skills, the dress will look stunning." Alec replied kindly, gently smiling at the camera.
"Yes, we definitely can't wait to see what Magnus' dress will look like!" Bells exclaimed, as Magnus felt his stomach lurch.
"Oh god, I have T.V. hosts wanting to see my design." Magnus ran a hand over his face and sighed.
"Just wait til you're a famous fashion designer who has more than just T.V. hosts wanting to see your designs," Camille stated, patting Magnus on the hand before focusing on the T.V.
"Well, that's all for today! Thanks for calling in and talking to us, Alexander." Cheryl said happily, as Alec smiled in return.
"Thanks for having me," he said, waving before the screen changed so it only showed the talk hosts.
"That's my entertainment over," Magnus grumbled sarcastically.
"Oh hush," Camille murmured fondly, before returning to her phone, where her Instagram suddenly seemed so much more interesting.
"Jace, Clara is so much better than Damon," Izzy teased her adopted brother as they looked at posters of the upcoming movie Demons.
In the movie poster, Jace stood in the front and centre of the poster, a sword in his hands as he glowered at the camera. Next to him was Izzy, dressed in a medieval style purple dress with her hair loose and flowing in what appeared to be wind. Next to Izzy was Sebastian Verlac – the actor playing her love interest, King Frazer the Third. He was staring lovingly at Izzy, his hand placed on her waist and his body angled slightly behind hers. A regal red cape was draped over Sebastian's shoulders, and a golden grown with sapphires and emeralds sat on top of his golden hair. On Jace's other side, with an impish grin on his face, was Max. Max was dressed in a dark blue, dirty loose poet shirt, which was a lot less sophisticated than the white poet shirt Jace was wearing. Max's hair was messy with dirt covering his cheeks. The poster was captioned "Will his Demons Catch up to Him?", followed by a list of the main actresses and actors; including the four Lightwoods involved.
"Dream on, Izzy. We both know I did a far better job of acting than you do. After all, I am a proper actor." Jace teases Izzy with a cheeky glint in his eye.
"Oh be quiet," Izzy scolded him jokingly, just as the door opened and Robert came rushing in.
"Sorry I'm late," he apologised, kissing a somewhat uncomfortable Izzy on the cheek and patting Jace on the back. Jace tensed up at the touch, although Robert didn't seem to notice. "Max is just finishing up in make up, so he won't be able to make it in time, but I'll show him the scene later."
"That's all good, isn't he doing a scene with Mum today?" Izzy asked.
"He sure is," Robert placed his laptop down on the table in front of Izzy and Jace, whose eyes were trained onto the computer screen in front of them. They watched Robert type in a password, both sitting in complete silence. He gave them a small smile, "don't forget that this is just what we've got currently – it will need some refining."
"Just show us," Jace pointedly smirked at Isabelle, "I personally cannot wait to see my handsome face on the screen."
"Grow up," Isabelle nudge him with a laugh, the hit slightly harder than what most would probably consider a nudge.
Robert inserted a thumb drive and clicked through the files, before clicking on a specific one. He glanced at his two kids, "you ready?".
Izzy nodded in response while Jace crossed his arms over his chest. Both fell silent once again, as they found themselves absorbed in the screen. After ensuring that the volume was right, Robert clicked the play button. A light hum of noise came on, and Izzy couldn't figure out whether it made her feel disconcerted or as if she was listening to something ethereal. The camera panned out, and on screen, Isabelle stood in front of a throne, her back to the camera. The camera moved closer, taking in all the details of the back of her dress. She was dressed in a long blue dress made out of a heavy, more middle class material, whilst her hair was tied up into an intricate braid. She stared up into the eyes of Sebastian, who was wearing King Frazer's trademark long red cape and silver chain mail.
"Is this what you want?" Sebastian asked in a deep voice, which resonated throughout the throne room. Both Izzy and Jace found themselves sucked into the world of Demons, as they watched themselves act out the scene. It suddenly felt so real. "I thought you wanted us, Clara."
"I do want us," Isabelle stepped forward, her hands clasped tightly in front of her. Her chest heaved dramatically with every breath. "I just…I can't let give up on him. He saved my life."
"He's an assassin of the late king, who may I remind you, ordered for your own Father to be killed – and you care for his life? Clara, he would have happily murdered you weeks ago." King Frazer rebutted furiously, giving the woman the deepest glare he could possibly give her. "I can't let you risk your life like this."
"I need to. For my brother. Surely you must understand, Frazer. He's going after the man who murdered Byron – I need to avenge Byron, he was my baby brother. He never should have died. Especially when it was my fault he died." Isabelle replied seriously, stopping Sebastian before he could interject. "Please, Frazer, let me do this."
"I should not permit this," Sebastian shoved past Isabelle, who pretended to stumble backwards before he whirled around and caught her in his arms. The camera panned out and there was silence for a few moments between the two actors before Sebastian yanked Isabelle against his chest, staring down at her passionately. "You are my woman."
"I am my own woman," Isabelle insisted loudly, as her face and Sebastian's neared each other's.
"You are to be my Queen. Clara, please reconsider this. I can't rule my people without you by my side." Sebastian begged, suddenly deflating yet his grip on Isabelle did not waver. He reached down and kissed the engagement ring on Isabelle's finger, before placing her hand over his heart.
"You've been doing a fine job of it for the past three years, my love." Isabelle replied softly.
"That was before I knew how you made me so much better." Sebastian took in a deep breath and spluttered out the next sentence. "This…this mission you want – it's suicide! You know I never plead with anyone, but I beg of you, milady. My sweet angel, rethink this choice."
"I'm sorry, my King. But I must avenge my brother." Isabelle reached up and cupped Sebastian's cheek in the palm of her hand. "I love you, King Frazer Douglas Malcolm Macintyre the Third."
"I love you too, Clara Smith." Sebastian then grabbed Isabelle's arms and held onto her tightly as he pressed his lips against hers.
The camera whirled around the actor and actress as they fervently kissed, Isabelle's fingers running through Sebastian's hair while his grip loosened slightly. Slowly, the cameras stopped whizzing around the couple and the kiss became less passionate and more tender. However, Isabelle teared her lips away from Sebastian's when Jace's voice sounded.
"Not interrupting anything, am I?" The screen showed Jace, dressed roguishly in a dirty white poet shirt and black leather pants.
"Of course not," Sebastian spat out, and Isabelle gently placed her hand on his shoulder.
"I need to leave now. It's time, my King." She said gently, stepping back from Sebastian and lowering her head.
"It was time this morning, we're already delaying this silly trip far more than necessary." Jace added unhelpfully.
"Damon, please give King Frazer and myself a few moments to ourselves." Isabelle shot at Jace, giving him a dark look.
"I believe I already did," Jace retorted, flicking his hair.
"Damon," Isabelle said stiffly, as Jace raised his hands and turned to leave the throne room.
"I'll be out by the horses, ready for whenever you are." Jace called out, leaving the King and his future Queen alone.
"Come back to me, Clara. Make sure you do." Sebastian whispered ardently. "I cherish you more than anything else in my life."
"I cherish you too," Isabelle murmured, giving Sebastian one gentler kiss before pulling away. "Good bye, Frazer."
"Until we meet again, Clara." Sebastian nodded at Isabelle, who curtsied before heading out of the throne. In the background, Alec's voice floated into the scene, along with a piano playing.
Love of my life, you've hurt me,
You've broken my heart and now you leave me.
The movie clip then changed to Jace standing next to two horses, smirking at Isabelle who stormed towards him.
"All done?" He questioned smugly, causing Isabelle to narrow her eyes at him.
"Let's just go and get this over with, Damon. The sooner we've finished this trip, the sooner I can finally get rid of you." Isabelle grabbed her horse's reins and pulled herself up to sit on the saddle on the horse.
"Harsh words, milady." Jace teased fondly, mounting his own horse.
"I'm not your lady," Isabelle stated firmly, glowering at the blonde man.
Love of my life, can't you see?
Bring it back, bring it back.
"You will be once you marry King Frazer," Jace retorted, "all hail Queen Clara Macintyre."
"If you had your way, it'd be hail and farewell." Isabelle shot back angrily and Jace purposefully blanched, saying nothing as Isabelle hurriedly got her horse to start galloping away from Damon, and away from her King.
Don't take it away from me, because you don't know
What it means to me.
The screen changed to Sebastian staring out of the window longingly after Isabelle, his hands clasped behind his back as an extra actress who was dressed up as a maid stumbled towards him.
"Are you in need of anything, Sire?" The actress questioned, eyes directed to the floor.
"No, I do not need anything." Sebastian said curtly. "Now, please leave."
The maid respected his wishes, curtsied and ambled away, before the screen went black.
The room that Izzy, Jace and Robert were sitting in was completely silent, as Robert went to shut his laptop. Izzy glanced at Jace and her dad, who was beaming at his two children with pride. "I think that's a terrific start."
"Alec wrote that song?" Jace enquired thoughtfully.
"Yes, he sure did. When I heard it, I knew I needed it in the movie. He has some other songs that will be in there too." Robert answered cheerfully, shutting his laptop and turning to face his kids. "I'm so proud of you two; and of Max and Alec as well. I have a big feeling that will be a major hit."
"Good to know," Jace said stiffly, licking his lips. "I should go. I need to call Alec before I go into the makeup department."
Robert's smile fell of his face, "Jace please, listen to me. I know this is hard for you-"
"You know nothing," Jace snapped suddenly, causing Robert to blink in surprise and Izzy to reel back from her adopted brother. "Now if you'd excuse me."
"I'm sorry about what happened between myself and Maryse, just know that there are always two sides to the story." Robert called out, watching Jace move to leave the room. "And when you're ready to hear my side, feel free to ask."
"I think I've heard enough," Jace retorted, opening the door and slamming it shut behind him.
"He's just hurting," Izzy said softly, before adding, "I think we all are."
"Which is completely understandable." Robert replied gently, giving his only daughter a loving look. "Izzy, I know I've done some very wrong things in my time. I just want you to know that I do regret a lot of it…but…some of it was for the best."
"Cheating on Mum was for the best?" Izzy couldn't hide the sarcasm in her voice.
"No, not that…but ending things between us. That definitely was for the best. Look, I still love your mother, but I think many years ago, we fell out of love. So I'm no longer in love with her." Robert explained cautiously.
"And you're in love with Annamarie Highsmith?" Izzy said incredulously.
"Yes, I am." Robert stated, somewhat unsure. "I know that is probably a very unsettling thought for you."
"It makes me want to puke," Izzy informed him bluntly, without any humour.
"Yes, that too." Robert's eye brows raised so high that Izzy almost expected them to fall off his head. "I'm trying to make things better with your mother, with you and your siblings, and of course with just all other aspects of live I've messed up. I'm only human, Izzy. I made my mistakes and I'm paying dearly for them."
"Oh yeah? Not bad enough in my opinion." Izzy got to her feet and went to leave.
"Wait, please give me a chance to make it up to you." Robert strode over, his hands shaking. "I just want my baby girl back."
Izzy gave him a dark look, "it'll take a long time, Dad."
"I can wait," Robert insisted firmly.
"And lots of chocolate." Izzy added with a challenging look on her face.
"All the chocolate in the world for you." Robert confirmed, nodding his head.
"And many hours of chic flicks, with no complaints." Izzy asserted, smirking when he agreed.
"Whatever you want, Iz." Robert promised. "I just want you back as my little girl."
"Well then," Izzy cleared her throat and grabbed her purse. "I'll expect to see you sometime for a round of Love Actually."
"Sounds amazing sweetheart," Robert went to give her a kiss on her forehead, only to be blocked by her hand.
"Don't make me regret this," she warned him, and all he could do was chuckle.
"Of course not," he reassured her, receiving a warm smile in response.
"That was some performance," Aline jumped from the high-pitched voice behind her, whirling around to see Helen in the doorway.
"Wow babe, give a girl some warning before surprising her." Aline joked weakly, striding towards Helen and giving her a sweet kiss.
"I live to surprise you," Helen replied lightly. "Good job out there, stunning – per usual."
"I always perform better when I know you're watching," Aline informed Helen gently, causing the blonde-haired woman to blush.
"Good to know," Helen teased, reaching forward and grabbing Aline's hand. "There's something else I want to know."
"What is that?" Aline queried, biting her lip nervously.
"What are you hiding from me?" Helen questioned bluntly, "and don't lie. I know that something is up with you."
"I…I…" Aline was speechless, her eyes wide and cheeks pale. "It doesn't matter."
"It matters to me," Helen injected fiercely.
"Well it shouldn't!" Aline suddenly snapped, her eyes blazing for a moment before dulling down. "I'm…I'm sorry."
"I don't mean to pressure you, and I'm sorry for getting annoyed with you. I just care about you." Helen added slowly, taking deep breathes to calm herself down. "I know something isn't right, Aline. Was it something I did? Did I upset you in some way? Just tell me the truth. I just want to fix whatever I did wrong."
"Of course it wasn't you." Aline insisted passionately, wrapping her arms around Helen's waist and pulling her girlfriend closer. "It was just…memories getting to me."
"Memories of what?" Helen asked quietly, lifting her hand up to cup Aline's cheek. "You know that you can tell me anything, sweetheart."
"I know I can tell you," Aline replied, her tone getting increasingly tight as she pulled away from Helen, causing the blonde's eyes to narrow. "Doesn't mean I want to…I mean, I'm not ready."
"Not ready?" Helen repeated incredulously. "What do you mean you're not ready? Aline, this is crazy."
"No, it's not crazy and I'd appreciate if you'd respect my privacy. It's my life you're butting your nose into." Aline countered angrily, yanking herself away from Helen, who gaped at the singer. "I want to be left alone please."
"You want to be left alone?" Helen murmured, looking as if she'd cry before her eyes darkened. Her voice lowered dangerously, causing Aline to flinch. "Fine, if that's what you want, then have it your way. This is it. I'm done. Mark was right – I shouldn't stick around if this is how you're going to treat me. If you're going to act nice and treat me like your girlfriend, not some little lackey to boss around and be rude to, then you know my number. Actually, don't call me. I don't want to talk to you."
With that, Helen turned around and stormed out, slamming the door behind her, leaving Aline by herself. The singer grabbed the glass on her dressing table, ditching it at the wall before bursting into tears and falling on the floor in a heap. Shards of glass were scattered across the floor, cutting into her legs and hands.
"Helen, I'm so sorry." She whimpered, rubbing at her eyes as sobs shook her body. "I'm so sorry."
The cries got stronger and she angrily raised her fist, before punching the floor. There was a knock on the door, as her security guard called out, "is everything okay, Ma'am?".
"Yes," Aline called back brokenly, "please just leave me alone."
There was only silence in response, before Aline's phone started ringing. She considered ignoring the call, but curiosity got the better of her and she crawled her way to the dressing table and pulled herself up. Alec's name flashed across the screen, so she quickly grabbed it and accepted the call, "Alec, I need to talk to you. I need help."
Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed it! And thank you so much to everyone who has reviewed.
– I'm glad you've been enjoying it! Trust me, if you're wanting romantic movie-like scenes, you will be getting some very soon :) Thanks for reviewing!
Pri-Chan 1410 – Aww thank you for your sweet review! It was even sweeter than the comments in the end of the chapter ;) Sorry for the delay to give you more!
Ravenclaw-Shadowhunter-Fae – You will definitely be getting more Tessa and Maia in the future! As well as more Sizzy moments. Haha I just love Camille in this fic (totally modest hey!), so I'm enjoying writing about her. Yes, there will be more of Fame, as long as I keep writing. Had to take a break there for a while, just because I guess I lost my passion for it. But I'm back now and hopefully will finish it off! P.S. I love your username.
sweetrein25 – I'm glad you loved the chapter and here is the next one! Like, over 2 years late but better late then never ;)
wendy – I love a good love story, so sounds like you had a perfect description of what the chapter was like! There will definitely be more interaction between the characters as the story continues! So sorry for the delayed update but thank you so much for reviewing.
TomTheSquirrel – I'm so happy to hear that you loved the ball! Thank you so much for your review – it means a lot.
FigsVsNewton – I'm so glad you loved it! Thank you so much for the kind words! They really helped motivate me to get back into writing it :)
Tay – Ahhh your review made me so flipping happy! Thank you so much for everything you said and I'm glad it made you grin like a lunatic and jump up and down in the supermarket due to your happiness. In case it wasn't obvious, darling Max will not be dying in this fic as Max, but he will be dying in the movie they are doing where he is playing Isabelle's character's little brother. I'm glad you liked the fire off Jess and Batari in the chapter! I don't think Tessa and Maia will be public just yet, but soon!
CoffeeandLiterature – Thank you so much for the review! I'm so glad you love it, but sorry for the really late update!
Bakonaua – WHY HELLO THERE! I'm glad you came back ;) Hahaha thank you so much for the review, honestly gave me such a good laugh! I hope you enjoy this chapter!
LightBehindTheShadows – So sorry for the delay and confusion! I just needed to get back into the story and find my passion again. There will be a nice ending, I promise!
Guest – I'm so glad you're in love with this! Thank you for the review.
Yhiaxen – Here's the next chapter! So sorry for the delay, but thank you for being so patient :)