Clary Fray had heard of the boy who stayed at Mrs. Herondale's house every winter and summer break. Alec and Isabelle had told her all about their new friend and Clary was excited that she'd finally be able to meet him. She ran up the stairs from the subway; she wanted to play with him now. Clary took her mother's hand and tugged.

"We're gonna be late Mom. Simon's probably already there!" she exclaimed. Her mother nodded, distracted, listening to whoever was on the phone.

She dragged her mother behind her as she ran down the pavement. Her light sundress was flying behind her, her red curls bouncing. The sun felt good on her bare arms and she wanted it to be summer always.

"Come on Mom! I wanna play with them," she called, looking back at her mother who was still on the phone. She had on a worried expression as the call ended.

"Honey," her mother said gently, "I don't think you'll be able to play with Mr. Herondale's son today."

"Why can't I? Izzy said I could. And Simon's gonna be there." Clary looked confused.

"Yes, but..." She paused and Clary could tell that something was off. After a short pause, in which her mother was probably figuring out what say, she said: "He's not here with us any more. Something happened and he had to go back to England."

"Can I play with him soon though?" Clary asked.

Jocelyn paused before saying, "I don't think so darling. But," she added hurriedly, upon seeing Clary's face, "you can still play with Izzy and Simon."

"Okay."

Dissapointed, Clary held her mother's hand as they crossed the street to the Lightwood's house. The house next door - Mrs Herondale's - was missing the car that was usually parked in the driveway. The house itself looked cold and empty with its curtains drawn closed.

As her mother rang the doorbell, Clary thought that she'd probably never see the Herondale boy again.

Review if you think I should continue or if you have any ideas I should add to my story. I may or may not add them but thanks for reading! (Next chapter they're going to be older)