Runes, Rings, and Little Things

Chapter 24

{ALEC}

"Well, young lady, we have a bit of a problem." Magnus starts at her. The lady, clearly not understanding, keeps going.

"My name is Kylie," the brunette says.

"Yeah, that's nice," I say, "But as you can see, I'm here with someone. With my daughter, and this is my boyfriend." Shocked, the girl is struggling for words. So Magnus gathers our things, and I pick up Katherine and we walk to another section.

"Magnus... Are you okay?" He doesn't look at me. He just sighs and fiddles with Katherine's carrying case. I poke a sparkle on his head and kiss his cheek. "I love you and only you, Magnus. Don't ever doubt that." Finally I get a smile out of him. He takes my hand and kisses my lips softly. Some people stare, but I don't care anymore. It's hard to believe I ever did.

{UNKNOWN}

Kylie was simply a test. Magnus, you passed. Now I know how much Alec means to you. And now, thanks to my lovely actress, I know how to set you off. I'll tear you apart, Magnus. You abandon me. I bet you knew I existed but didn't come for me.

I will take Katherine away from you. You don't deserve a second child.

{CLARY}

Jace is taking me out to dinner tonight. It's been a long time, and we need a normal day. Spencer and Will are being watched by Isabelle and Simon. "Practice for the future," Isabelle said. We go to our normal restaurant, the one where Peggie works. Today we get a man named Ian as our server. Ian takes us to a booth and lets us think about our order.

"I'm going to use the restroom," Jace says, kissing my cheek. I smile up at him.

"Don't take too long!" When Jace leaves Ian comes to take our order, and I being so damn hungry, ordered for both of us.

When the food gets here Jace still isn't back. I take a bite out of my meal and go back to the restroom to see if he's alright.

"Jace?" I call into the bathroom, "Are you okay?" I open the door wider so I can see in. I see Jace lying on the floor, crying. "Oh my god! Jace... What happened?"

I step towards him and he yells at me "CLARY IT'S A TRAP!" And suddenly I'm on my knees, watching Sebastian whip my husband.