[ Clary really did have to admire his sense of humour. She covered her mouth a little as she laughed. ]

That's a pretty good number. Not too low, and not so high that someone might question it.

[ Even if it was a fake number. Clary might have actually believed it. It also felt good just to laugh and no longer be completely tied down by all the complications waiting for her. ]

It's definitely distracting, I'll give the place that. Maybe I shouldn't be embracing it quite so readily, but honestly? My head hurts thinking about what's waiting. Thinking about conversations that should probably be had.

[ But the smile hadn't faded this time. She'd said what was immediately on her mind and for now it was freeing. ]

Really? Huh. I might actually have to chase that up. I know not everyone is as nice as you when it comes to realising they're being drawn.