Angels of Darkness

Chapter 4

Glass rained down behind Clary as her brother rose. "It is done. The border between worlds is sealed." Sadly, he wasn't smiling, but he looked incandescent, like he was glowing. Clary fought against the darkness swiftly overwhelming her to continue the plan. The circle of runes around him was shimmering with icy blue fire. He ran towards the dais, leaping the steps two at a time, and reached to catch Clary's hands. She let him draw her down from her throne until she stood in front of him. He was still holding her wrists. "You accept it," he said. "You accept your choice?"
"I accept it," she said, looking him in the eyes. "I do."
"Then kiss me," he said. "Kiss me like you love me."
She smiled. "In front of everyone? I don't think-"
"We have to show them," he said, and his face was immovable as an angel pronouncing a sentencing. "That we are unified. Prove yourself, Clarissa."
She leaned towards him; he shivered. "Put your arms around me," she breathed. "Please."
She caught a flash of something in his eyes before his arms came up around her. He pulled her close, and her breath caught. He was even more beautiful up close. She curled one of her hands around the back of his neck. Her other slipped partially down towards her waist, where Heosphoros rested, its scabbard tucked into her belt. His eyes were wide, Clary could see his heartbeat pulsing in his throat.
"Now, Clary," he said, and she leaned up, gently touching her lips to his face. She felt him shudder against her as the darkness swelled. She summoned her last dregs of willpower to try and touch Heosphoros. Her fingers twitched; their lips collided.