Torn - A Shadowhunter story

Chapter 1

I mounted the steps of the New York institute with my brother and stopped at the door. My hands were shaking as I pulled up my hood.

Last month, something 'happened' to our mother and we went to live at the London institute but there was an overload of people there due to frequent attacks and so we were relocated to the New York institute. This was going to be my new home, well, until something weird happens; like it always does. It's been just been me and my older brother Ayden for a while now. He's kept me going when I felt like just hiding under the covers for the rest of my life whilst wallowing in self-pity.

Anyway with my free hand I pressed the rune lock beside the door (right where a doorbell would be) and immediately the doors swung open revealing a crowd of people as we stepped in with our suitcases.

A solemn looking lady stepped forward,

"Welcome to the new York institute. I am Maryse Lightwood and this is my husband Robert Lightwood, my daughter Isabelle lightwood, my son Alec Lightwood and my stepson Jace Herondale and his girlfriend Clary Fairchild. This here is Gracie Ashstorm. I received your fire message and understand your difficult circumstances"

I nodded and so did Ayden.

"Very well then, please remove your hoods and introduce yourselves"

Ayden and I looked at each other and then we removed our hoods revealing mine and his dark brown hair and tanned skin.

"My name is Layla Frederickson, I'm 18 years old, from London and the sister to my 19 year old brother, Ayden." I said.

Maryse smiled warmly at us.

"Isabelle please could you show Layla to her room and Alec and Jace show Ayden to his."

Isabelle smiled at me "Follow me," she said and so I did; wondering about my life from now on.

Little knowing what fate had in store for me, just along the bend.

Sorry it was so short. Tell me what you think and I will be updating on the weekend.