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Chapter Text

It was Thursday and Magnus was on his way to Jace’s studio, thinking.

He’d gone to his bedroom right after he entered the house the previous night. And he hadn’t made a wish at 11:11 p.m. No. He wasn’t seventeen. Only a small, very small wish was okay. And he wasn’t thinking about whether Dr. Aldertree was still the practicing dentist in town when he went to bed without brushing his teeth and with the taste of the chocolate bar still in his mouth. And he hadn’t fallen asleep with a wide grin on his face. 

Simon was busy when he arrived at the comic book store. Magnus found him at the back office, drowning in papers. Magnus didn’t want to disturb him for long so he just filled in the papers Simon had given to him and left the store with the studio’s keys in his hand.

When Magnus arrived, the kids’ ballet dance lesson was still going, so he went to change his clothes and then, he went to the waiting area. Maia and Izzy stepped into the building as he sat on the couch.

“Oh, hello ladies,” Magnus greeted them, smirking.

“Hey, Magnus!” Izzy went to peck him on the cheek. Maia did the same.

“Are you ready for some yoga?” Magnus winked at them.

“I’m so ready,” Izzy smiled.

Once the ballet lesson ended, they walked into the studio. After the introductions and setting his yoga playlist on the speakers, Magnus started his lesson with eight people.

He didn’t remember the last time he’d done a proper yoga practice. Some stretching and the 10-minute morning yoga didn’t count. Those were only a routinely part of his days.

He was smiling when he heard the attendees whispering during the practice:

“I’m killing it.”

“I love this pose.”

“Shit this is hard.”

“I’m dying.”

“Oh my fave.”

“Love this song.”

“I can’t hold this anymore.”

“I love yoga.”

Some of them fell out of the posture a couple times but they got back into them and Magnus was very proud of them, so much so that he felt as their ‘yogi’ even though he only knew Izzy and Maia personally.

His own yogi always said him that being able to do a yoga pose or becoming flexible or standing on your hands are not the goals of the practice. The goal of yoga was to create a space where you were you can be and unveil layers of protection you had built around your heart and appreciate your body; it was becoming aware of the mind and the noise it created and about making peace with who you are. The goal of practicing yoga was to love yourself.

“My soul honors your soul. I honor the place in you where the entire universe resides. I honor the light, love, truth, beauty and peace within you, because it is also within me. In sharing these things we are united, we are the same. We are one,” Magnus finished his lesson.

“Namaste.” Everybody said altogether.

***

[Jonas Blue – Fast Car (Radio Edit)]

Magnus locked the studio after he stepped out of the building with Izzy and Maia.

He was busy with the keys when Izzy leaned close to him, “someone is here to pick you up, Magnus,” she whispered.

Magnus looked to where she was pointing with her finger. His heart melted when he saw Alec leaning against his car a little far from the building’s entrance. Magnus looked down and placed the keys into his training bag, shaking his head, smiling under his nose.

When he looked up Alec was walking towards them.

“Suggesting Magnus to give yoga lesson was my worst idea, Alec!” Izzy said to her brother when he greeted her with a peck on her cheek.

“Really?” Alec asked, standing next to Izzy, looking at Magnus from head to toe.

“He killed us, actually,” Maia said.

Magnus held up his forefinger, “you wanted the full body flow, so don’t complain now.”

Izzy and Maia left after a little chat and Alec stepped in front of Magnus, taking his training bag from him.

“You really killed them?” Alec asked softly, looking into the other’s eyes. He brushed Magnus’ hair from his face with his free hand before sliding it on Magnus’ neck.

“So many positions in one hour…” Magnus whispered, grinning. Alec closed his eyes, biting back his lower lip, shaking his head slightly.

“I’m here to take you home,” Alec said in a low voice before leaning closer.

“You think I’m too tired to walk home by myself?” Magnus asked and rested his hands on Alec’ hips at the band of his jeans, his gaze locked on Alec’s lips.

“No,” Alec breathed, brushing the tip of their nose together. “I know how you get all this new energy after yoga.”

“So you came because of my renewed energy,” Magnus teased him, pulling him closer; their bodies were touching as their breathing mingled.

“I could go home…” Alec trailed his nose along Magnus’ cheekbone and Magnus’ heart skipped a beat, closing his eyes. “If you want…” Alec whispered in Magnus’ ear.

Magnus’ skin was tingling and he started to breathe heavily, “no,” Magnus moaned silently when he felt Alec’s warm breath on his neck.

“Okay,” Alec said and kissed Magnus’ neck softly, stepping back and letting it go. Magnus’ hands fell down and he opened his eyes immediately, looking at Alec who was smirking.

“You have no idea what you just did, Alexander,” Magnus said offended; he stepped aside and passed Alec by, walking toward his car.

***

[Cheat Codes – Put Me Back Together(feat. Kiiara)]

Alec pulled off at Jocelyn and Luke’s house and stopped the engine, which meant that Alec wanted to spend more time with him. Magnus smiled from the thought.

“Thanks for taking me home,” Magnus turned to him in his seat. 

“Anytime,” Alec said and winked at him.

They were staring each other for minutes in silence. Magnus didn’t want to get out of the car, not yet. Magnus grabbed Alec’s hand and held it on his palm, caressing the soft skin with the tip of his fingers. 

“I guess we’ll meet tomorrow... at Clary and Jace’s...” Magnus whispered; his eyes locked on Alec’s hand. 

“Yeah... are you gonna cook?” Alec voice was serious and Magnus laughed. 

“No,” he bit on his lower lip, looking at Alec.

“That’s a shame,” Alec said, shaking his head then leaning against the headrest; “how was your day, anyway?”

“I was glued to my phone all day long,” Magnus rolled his eyes.

“Sounds familiar,” Alec winked at him.

“Is everything okay? I mean with Robert…” Magnus asked shyly, still stroking Alec strong hand. He didn’t know what was going on, he didn’t dare ask Izzy or Maia at the studio. He didn’t even ask Simon before.

Alec turned to the steering wheel, starting to play with the controller buttons on it, “Yeah, I think so. He still had some shares in some businesses I’ve been running. Max is turning eighteen next month so it was obvious that he was going to take over those shares. Like Jace and Izzy did with my mom’s when they turned eighteen themselves,” Alec explained and Magnus nodded, eyes locked on Alec. “He came to convince Max to go away with him—”

“What?” Magnus burst out louder than he wanted, placing his hand on his mouth immediately. “Sorry,” he said apologetically, looking at Alec sadly.

“Yeah, it actually makes no sense... I mean, he just came for Max. He didn’t ask how Izzy, Jace or me were doing. He didn’t even say congratulations to Jace when he met him on Sunday even though he knew Jace couldn’t be there on Saturday because he was on his honeymoon,” Alec looked down at his legs.

“I’m so sorry,” Magnus whispered, lifting Alec’s hand to his cheek.

“Max clearly told him that he didn’t even want to see him again, much less go away with him. So, he suddenly wanted his shares,” Alec breathed in deeply and exhaled sharply, “luckily, Hodge had prepared for this when Robert left, and put a twist in the settlement Robert signed long ago. So, I bought him out,” Alex explained then looked at Magnus. Magnus saw his Adam’s apple bobbed.

“So he left for good?” Magnus asked in a low voice.

“Yeah, for good and all that,” the corners of his mouth went up softly.

“You are an expert at buying shares lately,” Magnus said teasingly, biting back his lower lip.

“I know, right?” Alec laughed and turned away, shaking his head, “come here,” Alec said after he turned back and placed his other hand on Magnus’ neck, pulling him closer for a kiss.

Magnus’ heart skipped a beat as their lips met; he closed his eyes and felt Alec’s hand caressing his cheek. Alec’s mouth was very soft and warm as he took Magnus’ bottom lip in between his, licking it lightly. Magnus slid closer to Alec in his seat as they deepened the kiss, running his fingers through his hair. Magnus’ was panting as Alec pulled him closer and bit on his lip. The kiss turned too passionate and Magnus let out a wanton moan. His own voice brought him back to reality and he pulled away suddenly. He was breathing heavily and he didn’t dare open his eyes.

“I’m sorry,” Alec breathed and let Magnus from his embrace.

Magnus shook his lowered head. “no, don’t... it’s not... I just... I’m getting... carried away,” he was still breathing heavily and looked up at Alec under lowered lashes. Alec’s eyes were dark, his lips were swollen, “I should probably go inside.”

Alec only nodded and Magnus gave a quick kiss on the cheek and got out of the car. He waved at Alec as he reached the front door then went inside the house.

***

Magnus went to Clary and Jace’ house on Friday afternoon. They were preparing the ingredients for cooking that night. Magnus glanced at Clary a couple of times; she seemed distracted, barely talking to Magnus.

Clary was back from the pantry with an opened Pringles tube in her hand, eating the chips; she walked next to Magnus who was seasoning the meat.

“Magnus, I told you not to cut it into too little pieces,” Clary said and tossed the snack on the top of the counter. Magnus’ eyes widened.

“Sorry, Pumpkin! But I thought we were gonna—” Magnus said but Clary cut him off.

“Don’t Pumpkin me!” she yelled and Magnus stepped away from the counter, mouth open, “Can’t you just do what I’ve asked?”

“I’m sorry,” Magnus said, he was shocked and turned around, going to wash his hands from the olive oil and spices; “Clary, what’s wrong? Are you still mad at me because I didn’t tell you about my moving back?” he asked, wiping his hands in his apron.

Clary turned to him with a surprised look, “what? No! I’m not.”

“Then what is it?” Magnus stepped to Clary.

“Nothing!” Clary said without looking at Magnus, but he leaned in front of her with a questioning look, “It’s just something... with Jace and me and... and I’m still feeling jetlagged... I think...” Clary explained, gesturing with her hands.

“Are you two okay?” Magnus frowned.

“Yeah... it’s a... you know... we are married now... it’s all different now,” Clary let out a forced laugh and Magnus grabbed her hand.

“Hey, you two love each other and have lived together for years, it’s just a sheet of paper and a ring on your finger, Mrs. Lightwood,” Magnus stroked the back of her hand and smiled at her.

“Yes, yes... I guess, you’re right,” Clary said, smiled and grabbed the Pringles from the counter with her free hand. Magnus let her go.

“If you feel tired, I can take over this and you can take a nap,” Magnus gestured with his hand around the kitchen.

“No, I’m okay,” she took a chip in her mouth.

“Are you sure?” Magnus asked, raising his eyebrows and Clary nodded, “then, I’ll start making the dessert and you continue the meat, okay?” Magnus smiled at her.

“Okay,” Clary said with full mouth of chips.

“You seem hungry,” Magnus laughed and went to the fridge.

“I starved myself for weeks to fit in my wedding dress, Magnus,” she laughed and continued, “also, I’m a married woman now, which means I can gain as much weight as I want and Jace still has to love me,” Clary said seriously and Magnus started to laugh hard, bending forward, holding the fridge’s handle.

***

When Izzy, Simon and Maia arrived, Clary and Magnus were about to finish cooking. They were chatting when the front door opened wide with a loud noise. Jace stepped in, followed by Max and Alec, hands full of beer.

“Accept it, the red soap-dish is not that good car,” Alec messed Jace’s hair when he passed him by.

“It’s not a soap-dish, and it’s a great car with… with a small trunk,” Jace kicked the door closed.

Magnus laughed at the familiar scene. The Lightwood brothers’ arrival, their deep conversation about some ridiculous topic connected to Jace.

“And it’s fast,” Max said and placed a plastic bag on the kitchen island, heading to Maia.

“You can’t set the Ranger against the Mustang, Max! Not in the same category,” Alec arrived in the kitchen and gave Izzy a kiss on the head.

“Ford-Ford,” Jace said flatly and walked into the pantry after he kissed Clary. Meanwhile, Max and Maia disappeared in the living room.

“Oh God! Don’t tell me you’re talking about who’s having the best car!” Izzy rolled her eyes, “it’s like discussing who has the biggest—” Izzy placed her hand on her mouth suddenly, “never mind.” She waved them away and took a sip from her wine. Magnus bit back a smile and went to the kitchen island, placing a dessert dish on the counter. 

“Everybody knows I have the best car in town,” Simon said and straightened his upper body proudly. Magnus sat on a stool, watching them and listening to their conversation.

“You have a hybrid, Si!” Jace shouted from the pantry. Alec went to greet Clary with a peck on her cheek.

“I’m green, my car is clean and silent,” Simon held his index finger up.

“Clean and silent. It sounds like riding an iRobot Roomba.” Alec deadpanned and Jace came out of the pantry with a barking laugh, holding his hand up for a high-five. Alec slapped his brother’s palm, grinning.

“Duh,” Simon said and left the kitchen without a word. Izzy shook her head and went after him.

Alec walked toward Magnus near the kitchen island, smiling softly. Magnus bit his lower lip. Alec stood behind him, resting his hands on the top of the island, leaning his weight on them. Magnus felt Alec’s chest against his back. He leaned on him, his cheek against Magnus’ from behind. He felt Alec’s warm breath on him. Magnus’ heart started to hammer in his chest. He looked at Clary and Jace; they were in a conversation at the end of the kitchen.

“You smell like chocolate,” Alec whispered, brushing the tip of his nose against Magnus’ cheekbone. Magnus shivered. “Did you make this?” he asked pointing to the dessert on the island in front of Magnus.

“Yup,” Magnus said and cleared his voice because it was hoarse.

“What is it?” Alec asked, his lips brushing Magnus’ ear.

Magnus swallowed dry, “Chocolate lasagna.”

“Can I try it?” Alec rested his chin on Magnus’ shoulder.

“No. You’re gonna ruin your appetite,” he answered flatly.

“Have you… ever… seen me… not eating a meal, Magnus?” Alec asked and Magnus started laughing. “So?” Alec kissed Magnus’ cheek.

“Okay, just a little taste,” Magnus slipped out from Alec’s arms, standing up and going to the drawer. He took out a fork and handed it to Alec.

“Thank you,” Alec winked at him. Magnus watched him as he took a bite from the dessert, and then notice him close his eyes immediately. Magnus was standing still next to him. Alec opened his eyes and was about to take another bite but Magnus grabbed the fork from him.

“That was enough,” Magnus said and pulled Alec away from the dessert as he rolled his eyes.

“It’s not bad,” he said and licked his lips, leaving Magnus in the kitchen.

***

[Boyce Avenue – Will You Be There]

Magnus grabbed a dish and helped Clary serve the dinner. When he entered the dining room, he noticed that Max was sitting on the chair where he usually sat, and that the chair between Alec and Maia was empty. Magnus bit back his smile and placed the dish on the table. He went around and took the empty seat. Alec and Jace were in deep conversation, something business related as Magnus heard their talk. He grabbed the plate in front of Alec, and Alec looked at him while he was talking to Jace, Magnus raised his eyebrows and Alec nodded so he served him his food then he did the same for himself. 

“Thank you,” Alec whispered in Magnus’ ear.

“Bon appetite,” Magnus said and winked at Alec. 

This was the first time they had been all together since Clary and Jace were back from the honeymoon so, while they were eating, they mostly talked about it. 

After they had dessert, everybody was full, sipping wine, talking. Alec leaned back on his chair and rested his arm on the top of the chair’s backrest Magnus was sitting, caressing his shoulder gently with the tip of his fingers. Magnus’ body was shivering. 

“Now you have to tell us everything that happened here while we were away; I mean, something other than Magnus moving back...” Clary said and made a face at Magnus who stuck out his tongue.

“Something besides Magnus singing on the Main Street of Maysville?” Izzy laughed. 

“Oh God,” Magnus groaned, feeling his face go a deep red and dropping his head into his hands.

“I’m still freaking out over that! You guys were giving a concert!” Jace looked at Simon then Maia then Magnus and back.

“Magnus was actually pretty good,” Maia said.

“Yeah, he was amazing,” Simon agreed.

“Stop it. I’m never doing that again,” Magnus said, waving with his hand.

“I was thinking... you could write songs, Magnus. Just have to find an inspiration or a muse,” Simon looked at him seriously and nodding. Magnus shook his head.

“Simon, Magnus is an artist as well. He probably already has his inspiration or a muse. I also have my inspiration when I’m drawing or painting or crafting,” Clary said, leaning her elbows on the table.

“What’s your inspiration, Clary?” Maia asked, moving closer to the table on her chair. 

“The beauty of nature,” Clary said without hesitation.

“You mean my natural beauty, right?” Jace asked, smoothing his shirt on his chest.

“Sure, there are times when I’m inspired by you, honey,” Clary said and Jace leaned over, giving her a kiss on her cheek then leaned back on his chair proudly.

“That happens and Clary is sitting for six hours with a blank canvas,” Max teased Jace. Alec laughed aloud, making Magnus jump. He stood up for a high-five with Max. Everybody was laughing except Jace. Alec sat back in the same position he was before.

“Oh, come on, who couldn’t be inspired by me?” Jace asked offended.

“Me, obviously,” Magnus held up his hand. 

“And me,” Simon joined.

Magnus saw in the edge of his eyes that Alec was leaning closer and Magnus looked at him. 

“What’s your inspiration, Magnus?” Alec asked, his eyes were on his lips then back to his eyes.

And Magnus was thinking about that moment in the kitchen at his parents’ house when he couldn’t sleep, because of the previous night with Alec: then his texts telling him that he missed him, then his scent all over the room. He thought about all the happiness he felt with Alec even though they had had a lot of weak and painful moments. He felt complete, he felt inspired, and he felt he was on the right path again.

“I’m not telling,” Magnus whispered and Alec smiled.

“Is it a secret?” Alec asked.

“Yeah,” Magnus winked at him, turning his head back to the others. 

Suddenly he felt Alec leaning closer, his warmth on his skin. He swallowed dry, looking at the others but none of them was watching them. 

“I love you,” Alec whispered in Magnus’ ear and he froze, his heart skipping a beat. No, it probably, definitely stopped because Magnus heard nothing else. Only those three words echoed in his mind. The last time he’d heard them from the person next to him, had been when they said goodbye at the airport when Magnus first moved to New York. 

And now, after more ten years, he could hear them again. Alec loved him. Alec loved him back. He confessed it and Magnus couldn’t move.

“Clary, thank you! The dinner was excellent, as always,” Alec said the next moment, bringing Magnus back to reality. Alec was already busy picking up the empty plates and he was out of the dining room when Magnus could only blink and realize what had just happened. He tossed the napkin on the table and rushed after Alec. 

He was standing at the counter, wiping his hands in a paper towel. Magnus grabbed his arm and made him turn around. 

“Hey,” Alec said and smiled at him.

“Why didn’t you wait until I said it back?” Magnus asked. He started to breath heavily. 

“Because you don’t have to say it back now. Actually... you’ve already said it and—“

“I love you too,” Magnus grabbed Alec by his waist and pulled him in a tight hug, burying his face into his neck. “I love you so much, Alexander,” Magnus said again and Alec wrapped his arms around him, kissing the top of Magnus’ head. And Magnus didn’t know how could he hug Alec stronger but he did and it felt so good. Magnus could hear Alec’s heartbeats.

“You’re gonna push the dinner out of me,” Alec said on a suffering tone.

“I don’t care,” Magnus said. 

“What if I want to kiss you? Would you let me?” Alec asked.

“Do you want to kiss me?” Magnus pulled away a little.

“Yeah,” Alec said just before he cupped Magnus’ face and their mouths met in a soft kiss, brushing their lips together gently. Magnus felt he was pressed against the kitchen counter while they adored each other; he rested his hand on Alec’s waist. 

Alec pressed a little kiss on Magnus’ lips before he pulled away, still cupping his head, stroking his cheekbone with his thumbs. He was looking back and forth between Magnus’ eyes. Magnus heart was pounding in his chest. He knew this face too well. Alec was thinking and searching for something in Magnus’ eyes. 

“Spill it already!” Magnus whispered.

“What?” Alec frowned.

“I see you want to say something, spill it!” Magnus responded and saw how Alec swallowed and licked his lips.

“Sleep at my place tonight,” Alec said it in one breath and Magnus parted his lips. 

“Okay,” Magnus answered.

“Yeah?” Alec smiled at Magnus widely.

“Yeah,” Magnus said in a low voice and Alec’s mouth was on his at the next moment. Magnus was melting in Alec’s hands; his lips were so soft and they fitted Magnus’ perfectly. The kiss was very sweet, gently, caring, tender, and loving. Infused with all the feelings they had for each other.

“Oh God, no! Alec and Magnus are back together and being disgusting on a level of ‘I’ve been craving for you for ten years’ in my kitchen!” Jace’s high voice could be heard behind them but they didn’t stop kissing, Magnus let go of Alec’s waist, scrabbling for something on the top of the counter with his hands while he kept kissing Alec. He found a roll of paper-towel and threw the way Jace’s voice was coming from without opening his eyes.

“Hey! Stop it, guys! I’m gonna puke,” Jace said and Magnus started to giggle against Alec’s lips. 

“I’m afraid he’s gonna fire me,” Magnus stated when Alec pulled away, smiling widely.

“He can’t,” Alec winked at Magnus, eyes still on him.

“I could if I wanted to,” Jace said loudly and Alec turned around. Jace was leaning against the kitchen island, his arms crossed.

“Really? Don’t forget who’s on the top of the pyramid. Also, would you fire your wife’s brother?” Alec went to the drawer and took fork from it. “Or your brother’s love?” he added and sat on a stool pulling the dessert leftovers in front of him, taking a bite into his mouth. Magnus was still standing in the same place, his hand covering his mouth, hiding his grin. Bossy Alec met sweet-toothed Alec. There wasn’t anything more entertaining than that.

“Nope,” Jace turned to Alec, “but you two still owe me the cost of three hundred lanterns,” Jace said in a low voice, his index was pacing back and forth between Alec and Magnus. 

“Clary!” Alec cried. Magnus couldn’t stop himself anymore; he started laughing, throwing his head back.

“Oh, shut up!” Jace ran to Alec and slapped his arm, “I can’t go into this! Not now!” he said and walked to Clary when she appeared at the kitchen with a questioning look. Jace wrapped his hand around her waist, whispering something into her ears and led her back to the dining room.

Magnus frowned at the couple and shrugged. He walked to Alec who was still eating the chocolate lasagna from the dish. 

“This is so good,” Alec pointed at the dessert with his fork. 

“I know the quickest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” Magnus said and Alec left the fork on the top of the island, turning to Magnus on the stool. 

“You made it on purpose?” He grabbed Magnus by the hem of his pockets, pulling him between his legs. Magnus placed his arm around Alec’s neck, lifting his other hand and playing with Alec’s hair-strands over his forehead, messing them, then fixing them again. An old habit of his.

“Is it working?” Magnus asked, grinning.

“I won’t tell,” Alec answered in a low voice, closing his eyes as Magnus ran his fingers through his hair, “but I’m happy you’ve been bored on Monday nights.” 

“We’re leaving, are you—” Izzy rushed into the kitchen. “Oh, I’ve almost forgotten what a ridiculously sweet couple you are. Thank you for the reminder,” Izzy said and Alec rolled his eyes. 

“Are we leaving too?” Alec asked Magnus in a low voice. He nodded and stepped away from Alec. 

“We’re taking Max and Maia home,” Izzy informed them. 

“Okay,” Alec said and reached for the fork that he’d left on the island before. Magnus started giggling when Alec continued eating the dessert.

***

[James Morrison – I Won’t Let You Go]

Alec parked near the sidewalk in front of the coffee shop. They got off the car and Magnus waited for him to come around. 

“I have to go up there before we go to my place,” Alec pointed at the building next to the coffee shop, “I have to feed Church,” he added. 

Magnus’ eyes widened, “Church?”

“My cat. He lives up there, I think you’ve seen him,” Alec explained.

“Oh, yeah, the cat, okay,” Magnus said, looking at Alec who was rubbing the back of his head, his gaze on the sidewalk.

“You can wait here, I won’t be long. Or you can come... If you want...” Alec hesitated a little.

“I’m coming with you,” Magnus said and Alec looked at him, “If you want me to...” he added.

“Yeah, okay,” Alec said and took Magnus’ hand, intertwining their fingers. They walked to the front door in hand in hand. 

Alec looked around the street before unlocking the door, still holding Magnus’ hand. There was nobody nearby and it’d been dark for a while. Magnus heart started racing as he remembered the last time he’d been there. Alec pulled him into the building quickly and locked the door behind them. He smiled at the thought that they are literally sneaking into their own property. Magnus barely saw the stairs in the dark; he let Alec lead him. They arrived on the second floor and Alec opened the door. He was still holding Magnus’ hand as they stepped in, turning the light on. Magnus swallowed dry. The place had looked like the same when Magnus was there before. Alec let go of Magnus’ hand when the fluffy cat ran to Alec’s feet, purring against his legs. 

“Hey, buddy, missed me?” Alec lifted the cat in his arms and stroked its head with the tip of his fingers. Magnus smiled because of the scene. Alec turned to him with the cat in his arms, “Church, this is Magnus! Magnus this is Church!” Alec said softly. 

Magnus stepped closer, “hey, Church!” he said and reached his hand to stroke the cat but the animal hissed and scratched Magnus’ finger. “Ouch!”

“Church!” Alec pulled the cat away.

“Okay, I get it,” Magnus checked his finger; there was a tiny little scratch, barely seen.

“He only knows me, maybe that’s why is he so unfriendly,” Alec explained and put the cat down the floor and reached for Magnus’ hand, pecking his scratched finger. 

“You told him, huh? I have no chance of becoming his friend if you did,” Magnus asked shyly.

“I’ve only said nice things about you,” Alec whispered and leaned in to kiss Magnus softly.

“Then he is jealous,” he said after Alec pulled away; he went to the empty kitchen area.

“Might be. I used to date him,” Alec leaned down, opening a cupboard.

“Date?” Magnus raised his eyebrow and walked to the living area, looking around. The flat was very spacious and it had wide windows, though all of them were covered with paper. Magnus could imagine the sunrays coming inside.

“If we can consider a vet-check in another town as a date,” Alec shouted from somewhere behind the kitchen island, “that’s why the date-blanket is for. He hates the leather seat,” Alec stood up and winked at Magnus.

Magnus eyes widened. So, the blanket in Alec’s car was actually for the cat’s comfort. Magnus laughed silently, “there are situations when it’s just useful to have a blanket in the car,” he repeated Alec’s voice under his nose and walked toward the room at the end of the living room area, his eyes on the boxes on the floor.

“Come, buddy, dinner is served,” Alec said and Magnus turned his head around. Alec placed the cat’s bowl on the floor by the kitchen island. The cat was there the next moment. Alec smiled; his gaze on the animal.

Magnus turned his head back and he was at the door of the room where Alec appeared from the night Magnus had brought the papers to him. Magnus didn’t stop there, he walked in. The main walls were brick in that room too. There was a bed frame on the opposite wall, and some boxes here and there but Magnus could figure out that it could’ve been the master bedroom according to its size. Magnus saw an attached bathroom and a walk-in closet as he went around. When he turned around, he noticed a box on the floor with his name on it. He swallowed dry and his heart started pounding.

Magnus crouched as he grabbed the box and opened it with shaky hands. He sat on the floor as soon as he saw a photo frame on top; he reached in and took it out. It was a picture of Alec and him, sitting at the Lightwood house living room in front of the Christmas tree, Alec’s arms around Magnus’ body, his head resting on Alec’ shoulder. Then the photo went blurry, as tears were falling from Magnus’ eyes.

“We can go, Church is gonna—” Magnus heard Alec’s voice from behind and Magnus wiped his eyes and nose immediately. He felt Alec’s hand on his back then he sat next to him.

“What are in the other boxes?” Magnus asked quietly.

“In this one,” Alec pulled one closer, “some personal stuff from you, and things you left at my old room,” Alec reached in and took of a tube of liquid make-up, “does it have an expiration date?” he lifted close to his eyes and Magnus let out a tiny, desperate laugh, “in those,” Alec pointed at another pack of boxes, “old seasonal decorations from the shop.”

“My decorations?” Magnus asked.

“Yup,” Alec popped the p as he answered.

“And out there?” Magnus asked pointing at the living area with his finger.

“Some old work related stuff,” Alec replied and cleared his throat, “All these boxes have been here for more than nine years now, Magnus. I can’t remember everything,” Alec laughed lightly.

“Yeah, okay,” Magnus nodded and wiped his nose.

Magnus slid closer to him but Alec spread his legs and pulled Magnus to his body. Magnus placed his thighs on Alec left thigh, leaning against Alec’s chest with his side, resting his head on his collarbone.

“I’m sure the next owner’s gonna love this apartment. It’s a nice place,” Magnus whispered.

“Yeah, and pretty big for a cat,” Alec said and Magnus giggled. Alec kissed the top of his head.

“Why do you have a cat? I guess no one knows about Church, right?” Magnus asked in a low voice, Alec hummed, “Why he is living here and not at your place?”

“It was a rainy day and I was on my way back to Maysville late at night. I was so tired already, I barely saw the road, it was too hard to keep my eyes op—” Alec started but Magnus cut him off.

“Alexander, were you driving like that?” Magnus asked, his heart in pain from the thought what could have happened if Alec had fallen asleep while he was driving.

“Nothing happened. On the contrary… I became more than awake when I saw that wet ball of fur in the middle of the road. I pulled off immediately. He was so tiny and he was shaking. I wrapped my coat around him, took him into my car, increased the seat-heat and took him here. I have no idea why here…” Alec explained, caressing Magnus’ back.

“It seems like he likes that ugly couch,” Magnus said as he saw the cat had jumped on the back of the furniture and Alec laughed.

“Yeah, it was already here when I bought this property,” Alec said and placed his hand under Magnus’ jaw, lifting his head up, brushing his lip against Magnus’ for a soft and gentle little kiss. “Can we go?” he asked as he pulled away.

“Yeah,” Magnus said and stood up. He took a look on the photo frame he was still keeping in his hand. “Do you think you’ll ever trust me again?” Magnus asked, eyes locked on the photo.

Alec took the frame from Magnus’ hand and put it back in the box. “I hope so,” he said softly as he turned to Magnus, smiling at him, “come,” Alec beamed and reached his hand out to Magnus.

“What do you want me to do to have you trust me again? I would do anything. Just tell me what to do.” Magnus tried to not to sound too desperate before taking Alec’s hand. Alec shook his head, smiling lightly.

He pulled Magnus into a hug, looking into his eyes. “Just be… you,” He said and Magnus looked back and forth between his eyes, waiting for Alec to continue. But he didn’t, he just pressed a light kiss on his mouth and pulled him out of the room. Magnus was more than confused.

***

They sneaked out of the building and Alec closed the front door, walking next door. He smiled at Magnus after he opened the door by the coffee shop entrance. Magnus stepped in, Alec following and turning the lights on. The walls were white along the stairway, leading to the second floor. This corridor wasn’t as wide as in the other building. Alec locked the door and after collecting his mail, he headed upstairs. Magnus walked behind him.

They reached the second door, which was unlocked; Magnus noticed, as Alec just opened it and went inside, turning the lights on, holding the door for Magnus.

“This is where I live,” Alec announced shyly, gesturing with his hand to Magnus to step in.

Magnus smiled at him softly and looked around as he stepped in. The first thought in his mind was that even the locker room at Raphael’s cooking school was cozier than this place. The walls were white and grey; the living area was to the left and the open kitchen to the right. The furniture was plain; there was a couch and two armchairs in the middle, a desk by the window. Magnus walked around. He noticed there was no dining table only a kitchen island with four tall stools where people could actually eat.

Magnus swallowed the stone he didn’t know he was holding in his throat; the pain appeared in his chest again. This was it; this had been Alec’s life while Magnus was away. Magnus knew that Alec moved here because it was useful. He was working hard and he’d never been a fussy type of guy when it came to decorating but this place was too plain, too cold.

“Do you wanna drink something?” Alec asked as he walked into the kitchen, tossing his mail on the island. “I’m opening a bottle of wine, would you like some?” Alec rolled up the sleeve of his shirt.

“Sure,” Magnus said and headed to the kitchen, “when did you move here?” he sat on one of the stools.

Alec stood still at the island, one hand on the neck of the wine bottle, wine opener in the other, his eyes locked on the ceiling, exhaling sharply as he was thinking.

“About eight years ago when I first renovated the coffee shop after you left… I think, I’m not sure,” he said and pushed the opener into the cork, “I didn’t think it for a minute when Paul announced that they were moving out,” Alec pulled the cork out with a loud pop, “they moved to the suburbs.”

“I see,” Magnus smiled at Alec.

“It’s just useful, downtown, above the shop…” Alec turned to the cupboards, taking two glasses out, “but I still spend the weekends at my mom’s, I mean I used to… not anymore since Max and Maia are together,” Alec poured the liquid in the glasses.

“They are lovely together,” Magnus accepted the wine.

“Yeah, they are,” Alec stepped backwards and leaned against the counter, “Maia is a nice girl,” he added and sipped from his wine.

Magnus rested his elbows on the top of the island, rotating the glass on the surface by its stem. He looked around again; he noticed an open door and leaned a little forward to look into it. It was the bedroom as Magnus saw the side of a bed and bedside table. He turned back to Alec when he heard his steps. He was walking toward Magnus, standing next to him. Magnus lifted his head to look at Alec.

“I can take you to your parents’ if you don’t want to be here,” Alec said softly, brushing Magnus’ hair from his face, making him shut his eyes. Alec slid his hand on Magnus’ cheek. “I just… I’d just really like to sleep with you tonight,” Alec’s voice went lower, he was caressing Magnus’ cheekbone with his thumb.

“No, you don’t have to take me there,” Magnus looked aside, “it’s just a little weird for me to be here,” he said and his gaze went back to Alec whose expression was unreadable, “I mean weird but good weird,” Magnus tried to explain, looking around. “It’s good to be with you,” he turned to Alec on the stool and placed his hand on Alec’s chest, he felt his heartbeats against his palm.

Alec smiled at him, licking his lips, “I’ll get a t-shirt and some sweatpants for you and you can take a shower,” he said before leaning in for a quick kiss.

Alec turned around and walked to the bedroom, “don’t pick your favorite,” Magnus called after him, grinning.

“I know you’re not going to return them,” Alec said without turning back and he disappeared in the room.

***

Magnus took a shower after he removed his make-up, he liked that he could use Alec’s mint shampoo. It had a nostalgic feeling to smell that scent on himself. And he giggled silently when he took Alec’s toothbrush from the sink and brushed his teeth with it.

He walked into the bedroom after he finished showering. Alec was lying on the bed, his MacBook on his lap; he glanced at Magnus with a smirk then continued typing. Magnus fished his phone out of the pocket of his pants and placed his clothes and jewelry on the armchair in the corner. He looked around in the room, the bed was on the opposite wall with two bedside tables, and the curtains were closed. Magnus walked to the bed and sat on the dark blue cover in a crossed-legged position at the other end, giving Alec privacy until he finish whatever he was doing on his laptop.

Magnus unlocked his screen and checked his notifications and emails. He noticed and email from Catarina. She was letting Magnus know that she had been packing all day and was going to all weekend because the moving company was going to deliver his stuff to Maysville on Monday. Raphael had taken all his kitchen equipment for himself, Ragnor had taken the armchairs, the Persian carpet and he wanted to steal from Magnus’ wine collection but Catarina caught him and hit him with a pillow a couple of times. Catarina took the décor pillows; she said she had become attached to them. She also took the plants because she just couldn’t let them die there and Magnus’ outdoor furniture because it was comfy. Magnus smiled as he was reading the email.

Alec shut his laptop closed and stood up; he went to the commode at the nearest wall and placed the MacBook on the top of it.  He picked out a t-shirt and some underwear from the drawers and walked out of the room. Magnus made a face and his gaze went to his screen again.

He lifted his head when Alec was back the next minute, “I brought you a charger,” he said and handed him the cord.

“Thanks,” Magnus said and smiled at Alec who bent down and kissed him on his forehead.

“Be back soon,” Alec said before he turned around and walked toward the door.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Magnus called after him.

Magnus typed a reply to Catarina, turned his phone silent and plugged the charger in, putting it on the bedside table. He pushed the covers aside and slipped under. He lay on his side and placed his head on the pillow, pushing his hand under it, he was playing with the hem of the other pillow while he waited for Alec who walked into the room a couple minutes later in a t-shirt and underwear. He left his phone on the bedside table and joined to Magnus under the cover, facing to him. Magnus smiled at Alec, and he returned the smile.

“What are you thinking about?” Magnus started to stroke the back of Alec’s hand.

“That dessert you made today,” he answered right after and Magnus turned his head into the pillow to laugh.

“I love you,” Magnus whispered after he turned back to Alec.

“I love you too,” Alec leaned closer and Magnus placed his hand on the side of Alec’s neck, brushing their lips together. His body started shivering from head to toe.

Magnus slid closer to Alec as they deepened the kiss, he licked Alec’s full bottom lip and Alec parted his mouth to let Magnus’ tongue in. His heart was racing and he felt his pulse increasing. Magnus felt Alec slid his hand under the t-shirt on his side, stopping at his hip, and he bit on Alec’s lip gently. Magnus ran his fingers through his hair as Alec held onto Magnus’ hip. Magnus let out a silent moan. He pulled away suddenly, breathing heavily.

Much as Magnus wanted to feel and love Alec that way, he didn’t want to rush it. He opened his eyes, meeting Alec’s gaze. He was also breathing heavily, but smiled at Magnus sincerely, turning to turn the light off on the bedside table.

“Good night,” Alec breathed out as he pressed a kiss on Magnus forehead.

“Good night, Alexander,” Magnus buried his head against Alec’s chest, inhaling his scent deeply, “I never want to spend another day without you,” he whispered, and Alec’s hold grew tighter around him.

***

[Justin Timberlake – Morning Light (feat. Alicia Keys)]

Magnus reached his hand out, moving it swiftly against the bed-sheet, then one of his legs joined it, he’d literally made a half snow-angel in the bed before he blinked his eyes open and realized he was alone. He lifted his head and looked around the room.

The curtains didn’t let the sunrays in; the only light came from the open door. Magnus noticed a yellow stick-on note on his iPhone; he reached out and took them. He bit his lower lip and smiled as he saw Alec’s handwriting.

Good Morning Sparkly! (Sorry, I know you hate it)

If you wake up before 7, which I doubt, I went running.

I’ll bring you coffee from the shop.

Magnus pressed the button on his phone, checking the time. It was 7:24. Magnus looked aside without turning his head, cocking his ears, listening to the noise from outside of the room.

According to it, Alec was back. Magnus rolled to the other side of the bed and stood up. He slowly and silently tiptoed out of the room. He leaned against the doorframe and crossed his arms, biting on his thumbnail when he saw Alec.

Alec was standing barefoot at the kitchen counter with his messy hair, only wearing grey sweatpants, which were hanging around his hips; he was reading the day’s papers, and was drinking something from a large shaker. He’d probably sensed Magnus was staring at him because he turned to where Magnus was standing as he was lifting the shaker to his mouth but stopped halfway.

“Good Morning,” Alec smiled at him and placed the shaker on the island.

“Morning,” Magnus started to walk to Alec. “Why didn’t you wake me up when you did?” he asked and hugged Alec from behind, kissing his bare back on his spine.

“I’m not that heartless,” Alec deadpanned and turned around in Magnus’ embrace, cupping his face, kissing him. It was hard for Magnus to keep his gaze on Alec face, when perfection on legs was standing in front of him half naked. He noticed his slightly damp hair, and he smelled like mint. It seemed Alec had already had a shower after running.

“I know,” Magnus said softly, “but I could’ve talked you out of leaving the bed,” Magnus was grinning and Alec laughed, “anyway, I was just reading about some coffee…” Magnus added and turned his head back, looking around the kitchen.

“It’s here,” Alec handed him a takeaway from the island.

“Thank you,” Magnus said and took the paper cup with both hands and headed to a tall stool, sitting on it.

“I wanted to ask you something,” Alec started and sipped from the shaker.

“What are you drinking?” Magnus asked as he watched Alec’s drinking, “sorry, I’m all ears,” he took a sip from his own drink.

“Protein shake,” Alec answered and lifted his hand to the back of his neck, interlocking in it, “I was wondering if you’d like to come for lunch at my mom’s today,” Alec asked hesitantly.

Magnus stopped drinking his coffee, keeping it at his mouth and blinked a few times as he heard Alec’s invitation.

“I have a few things to do in the morning, so I’ll take you back to your parents’, and you can get dressed and stuff. And I could pick you up later,” Alec paused and took a breath, scratching the back of his head, staring at Magnus, “you know, what? Forget it, umm… I was just thinking and you—” Alec said, looking on his shaker. He probably noticed Magnus’ long silence but Magnus cut him off.

“What should I wear?” Magnus asked and Alec looked at him immediately with a wide smile on his face.

“Casually elegant,” Alec said with a crooked smirk and Magnus rolled his eyes.

“Alexander, there is no such thing as casually elegant,” Magnus slapped the top of the counter lightly, “It’s either casual or elegant.”

***

[Colbie Caillat – Bubbly]

Magnus had mixed feelings about the Lightwood lunch. He was nervous and excited at the same time. He had chosen one of the best outfit he had in Maysville, and spiked his hair up. 

Magnus was standing in front of the mirror; fixing the necklaces around his neck after he finished his eyeliner when he heard some light knocks on the open door. He didn’t need to turn around, he saw Alec in the mirror when he stepped into his room. 

“Jocelyn let me in,” Alec said and Magnus was watching him walk in without saying anything. Alec looked as handsome as always. He was wearing a white cotton button-up shirt with navy blue chino pants. His hair was brushed and he had put on some fragrance Magnus could smell as he walked behind him and kissed him on the cheek. 

“What do you think? Casually elegant enough?” Magnus asked, smoothing his purple shirt. Alec smiled and nodded. His heart melted when he watched their reflections in the mirror. Magnus turned around, resting his hands on Alec’s chest, facing him. 

“Someone is looking handsome...” Magnus said, sliding up his hands to Alec’s shoulder. “But...” he added and took a step back, biting back his lower lip. 

Magnus began rolling up Alec’s sleeves to his elbows and when he was done he brought his hand to Alec’s hair to run his fingers through, making it messier. 

Alec smiled when Magnus took a second look at him, checking him from head to toe. 

“Better?” He asked, Magnus saw that he was trying to hide that he’d actually liked what Magnus did. 

“Hmm...” Magnus brought a finger to his lips, “one more thing,” he added and stepped closer to Alec, undoing the second button on his shirt. “More casual,” he said, smoothing the fabric over Alec’s chest then giving a quick kiss on the mouth, “yet elegant.”

“C’mon, mom is gonna be mad if we’re late,” Alec said out of the blue, grabbing Magnus’ hand. They exited the room together. 

***

Alec opened the door for Magnus when they arrived at the Lightwood family house. 

“Are you okay?” Alec asked him when he got off the car. He only nodded and forced a smile to Alec. 

Maybe Alec saw the hesitation in his movements; he didn’t know how to feel about this lunch. They hadn’t talk about what the relationship between them currently was but it pretty much felt like they were back together. Whatever it was, Magnus felt it was right; they were on the right track. 

The only thing he was nervous about was meeting Maryse again. Magnus knew that she loved Alec with all her heart and when they were together before, she had always been very supportive of their relationship. Suffice to say, she loved Magnus. And Magnus could dare say selfishly that she used to love him more than even Clary or Simon. 

However, things had changed, things had happened, and Magnus’ stomach tightened as he took Alec’s hand and walked to the front door. 

Alec opened the door for them and Maryse was walking towards them on the hallway with a wide smile on her face. Magnus felt his palms sweating.

“Oh, I’m so happy you came Magnus. I was so excited when Alec asked me to set one more place at the table,” Maryse straightened her turquoise envelope dress and threw her high pony-tail back before giving Magnus kisses on his cheeks. 

“It’s my pleasure that I could join you,” he said, smiling. 

“Jace, Max and Simon are in the dining room, you can go take your seats. The girls and I are serving the meal,” she said after giving Alec a kiss on the cheek.

Simon and Max were in a deep discussion about some superhero movie, Jace was listening to them listless, leaning on his elbow. Alec pulled a chair for Magnus at the table, which was the same seat he used to be his place. The second chair on Maryse’s right, who sat at the end of the table. Alec was the first, then Magnus, Izzy and Simon to her right. Jace, Clary, Max and now Maia to her left. 

Alec was already in a deep conversation of his own about some business related topic when Maryse and the girls served the food. 

It tasted as marvelously as it looked. They talked about the family businesses; cars, weather and at some point even Magnus’ yoga lesson came up as a topic. 

***

Magnus was on the way back from the bathroom, heading to the dining room when he noticed Maryse in the kitchen, serving her famous apple pie. 

“Need some help?” Magnus walked into the room.

“Oh, yes, thank you, Magnus,” Maryse welcomed him with a sincere smile and Magnus was at the counter, taking another knife out of the drawer then standing next to Maryse.  

“It smells delicious,” Magnus said without looking at the woman, starting to cut the other pie in the other dish.

“I’m honestly happy you’re back in Maysville,” Maryse stated and Magnus took a glance at her.  She was talking to the pie in front of her on the top of the counter. “You know... Jace, Izzy and Max... they are like their father, like in every way, personality, mentality... but Alec… Alec is like me.” 

Magnus didn’t understand why Maryse was telling him this but he said nothing. Not that he could say anything; he was at a loss of words.

“We find love hard, and if we found it then it is for life... I know it from experience...” Maryse looked at Magnus. His heart was racing from her honesty. 

Magnus couldn’t imagine how she could have felt when she saw her ex-husband back in Maysville after such a long period of time, knowing that the man had his own new family, living happily with his new wife. And Maryse was still alone with a feeling of lost love, carrying the weight of her ex-husband’s betrayal on her shoulders. He saw the parallel between hers and her son’s destinies. It made his heart ache.

Then the edge of her mouth raised, “I could be back in the market if only I wanted to,” Maryse laughed then her face turned serious. “Please, tell me I’m not spending a ridiculously amount of money on beauty products for nothing,” she said and Magnus laughed softly, lowering his head. 

“You look beautiful Maryse, as always,” Magnus said sincerely.

“Ah, thank you,” she placed her hand on her chest, closing her eyes. 

Maryse finished serving and turned to Magnus with her whole body.

“We are all humans, we make mistakes, we fall, we stray away from our paths sometimes but we can also learn, fight, forgive and accept one another,” she said and took Magnus’ hands between hers. “Alec deserves the love he’s found in you, the one and only. And I’m sure he can give you a love like no one else,” she said softly and Magnus saw the tears in her eyes as he felt the urge to cry too. “You and Alec are two precious people who deserve to be happy,” she ended.

“I want to make him happy,” Magnus’ voice was hoarse, he was too close to crying. 

Maryse caressed Magnus’ cheek and smiled at him. “I know,” she turned back to the island, picking up the trays with the dessert.

***

When they finished their dessert, there was a lull moment when Jace cleared his throat, Magnus looked at him immediately, then on his and Clary’s intertwined hands resting on the table. Clary squeezed her husband’s hand with her thumb.

“Clary and I have an announcement for you,” Jace said, looking at everybody at the table. All the gazes were on them. Jace cleared his throat again, “we are having a baby!” Jace said, looking at Clary, then giving her a kiss on her red hair. The edges of Magnus’ mouth rose automatically.

“Aahhhh!!” Izzy and Maia screamed together, clapping their hands.

Maryse placed her hand on her mouth, her eyes were glassy but her expression was of pure happiness. 

Max and Alec were grinning.

“Wow!” Max said, hugging Clary from her side. 

“Congratulations!” Alec said, his eyes were shining and smiled at them.

“Well... it was a productive honeymoon then,” Simon said, leaning his weight on his elbow as he bent over to see them, “wait, you just got back from Hawaii...” Simon’s eyes grew wider. 

“Well, we’ve known this for a while...” Clary answered, looking at Magnus apologetically, staring into his eyes before looking at the others.

It all clicked for Magnus in that second. Clary’s weird behavior, her weak moments, the random crying, her outbursts, Jace’s worried call when they were out to Louisville, Clary’s anger after their honeymoon, Jace’s, their little fight the day before, the hunger, the tiredness... The hormones. 

He was more than happy that he came to Maysville three weeks before the weeding and could have been there for Clary.

“Boy or girl?” Max asked suddenly.

“Maxie, it’s too soon to know the baby’s gender,” Maryse wiped her tears away and stood up, walking toward Jace.

“Actually we do know, mom,” Jace said and Maryse’s eyes widened.

“It’s a girl!” Clary said, placing her hands on her belly.

“A girl!!!” Izzy blurted out, unable to hold back her excitement, “I can’t wait to start shopping!” she grabbed and shook Magnus’ upper arm, Magnus laughed.

“So, Jace, you’ll be a dad soon, can I get your red Mustang once you have to buy a family van?”

Alec looked at Max immediately. “No!” he and Jace shouted together.

“Why not?” Max asked. Magnus bit on his lower lip.

“Because!” Jace answered.

“Is that your answer?” Max frowned at him.

“You won’t have the red soap-dish, Max! Case closed!” Alec finished the discussion.

“You guys are not fun!” Max added pouting, looking at Maia.

Maryse couldn’t stop crying; she hugged Jace and Clary and then everybody went to hug them as well.

“Have you told our parents?” Magnus asked Clary softly.

“Yeah,” Clary nodded and lowered her head.

“You know… I was thinking that you had no right to freak out over my coming back. You were hiding a bigger surprise from me,” Magnus teased Clary.

“I know, I know and I’m sorry,” Clary said.

“Hey, you don’t have to apologize. Will you behave like this until the delivery?” Magnus arched an eyebrow and Clary started laughing, “I feel sorry for Jace, now.”

***

[McFly – All About You]

After everybody said their congratulations and best wishes to Clary and Jace they went outside to the terrace. Magnus loved the view from there; the whole garden could be seen from that spot. The summer air was warm, but the breeze made it easier to handle.

All of them were outside. Clary and Maia were chatting on the couch. Izzy was sitting on the stone railing; Jace and Max were leaning against it. Magnus, Simon, Alec and Maryse were playing a card game. Magnus was sitting next to Simon, and in front of Alec across the table. Maryse was next to Alec, leaning on her son’s shoulder. She was out of the game now. The others were watching them in silence; nobody dare utter a sound. The tension could be seen around them.

“Simon, what if Alexander collected all the clubs and the diamonds? We have no chance to win then,” Magnus said, he looked at Alec whose eyes were locked on the cards in his hand. Then to Maryse, she rubbed her nose and Magnus bit back a smile.

“I’m not a competitive person, you know, Magnus, but I’m still leading the score board. It hasn’t changed in ten years,” Alec said without looking at Magnus.

“I don’t know Alexander, I might spend my boring Wednesday nights in a card-game club, so tables can turn,” Magnus said and placed four cards on the table. “Sorry, Simon,” he added. 

“Jeez, Magnus, that was mean,” Simon said. 

“Impressive,” Alec said after he checked the four cards. 

“You know Alexander, you are kind of an ace of hearts... do you know why?” Magnus said, looking at Maryse. She rubbed her nose again. It was so hard for Magnus not to laugh so he just bit his tongue, and covered his mouth with his cards. 

“Nope,” Alec’s eyes were already on him when Magnus looked at him. Alec pulled away from Maryse suddenly. 

“Mom?” Alec raised his voice and everybody started laughing around them. “Boring Wednesday nights, huh?” Alec stood up quickly, tossing his cards on the table. 

“You said you were not competitive, what if you lost one game?” Magnus laughed.

“You, Magnus! You still cheat!” Alec pointed at Magnus with his index. “And you, mom... you are helping him!” Alec pointed to Maryse, who couldn’t speak from the laughing; she just lifted her hands as surrender. 

“It was fun, big bro!” Izzy shouted.

Alec went to the wide terrace-door and turned around. 

“I’m going to bury myself in that apple pie and you can do whatever you want,” Alec tried to sound offended and gestured at everybody with both of his hands. Magnus knew he was enjoying it.

“Your match is back, honey!” Maryse cried after Alec, standing up from her chair, walking to Magnus. “I’ll go pack you leftovers,” she said and bent down to hug him, “I don’t know when was the last time I had this much fun,” she whispered and stroked Magnus’ arm. Maryse smiled at him when she let go from the embrace and walked inside the house.

***

[Kodaline – Follow Your Fire]

“I’m going to take a walk down there, Isabelle,” Magnus said, pointing at the garden. “If Alec comes out of the house, would you let him know?” Magnus smiled at Izzy when she nodded. 

Magnus took off his shoes when went down the stairs from the terrace. He was walking to the end of the garden barefoot. He sat crossed-legged under the huge oak tree. He was playing with the grass. 

He was smiling when he noticed someone on the way toward him. He recognized Alec in the distance; his hands were in his pockets. 

“Hey,” Magnus said when Alec was closer. He was barefoot too. 

“I don’t want to disturb, I can go back if you want to be alone...” Alec said, rubbing the back of his head. 

Magnus smiled, shaking his head and slapping the grass next to him. 

Alec bit back his lower lip as he sat next to Magnus. 

Magnus slid to Alec’s side and found his way under his long arm, burying his face into his clothes, breathing in his scent. He closed his eyes.

“Are you okay?” Alec asked softly, kissing the top of Magnus’ head.

Magnus nodded and he felt a tear rolled down immediately on his face. Alec pulled away a little to look at Magnus, wiping the tear from his cheek.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” Alec asked and Magnus only shook his head, more tears coming from his eyes. “Is it that I’ve caught you cheating?” Alec asked and Magnus shook his head again and let out a tiny laugh, leaning back on Alec’s collarbone.

“Your mom hugged me,” Magnus whispered, wiping his nose on the back of his hand. 

“That’s a good thing,” Alec said in a low voice, caressing Magnus’ arm softly.

“She... she really hugged me,” Magnus turned the half of his face into Alec’s collarbone, placing his hand on the other half of his face, trying to hide his crying. 

“That’s good, hey... calm down,” Alec pulled Magnus closer, “you still don’t give yourself enough credit...” Alec whispered into Magnus’ hair.

“What?” Magnus asked confused.

“Want me to count? We’re gonna be sitting here until sunrise,” Alec pulled one of his arms away and held in front of them and started to count on his fingers. “That biology test... I thought you would pass out in the library.”

*

“You’re gonna make it, Magnus! Don’t worry! I know you’re gonna pass the test,” he said. His eyes were shining and the edge of his mouth curling up softly.

How much he loved that honest smile. They were sitting next to each other, on the floor between two bookshelves at the library of the Maysville High School, for three hours now. The library wasn’t busy. They were the only ones there. Who was going to spend their Friday night at a library? Magnus felt his heartbeat in his ears when their shoulders brushed as Alec looked at him.

“I don’t know, Alexander. I think my brain is pretty blurry by now,” Magnus replied.

“You can do this,” Alec said and pushed a strand of hair off Magnus’ face.

*

“When you first kissed me...” Magnus whispered.

“Yeah... but now that’s not the point! You passed the test!” Alec waved Magnus away.

“...When I tried to teach you how to ride Jace’s bike...” he showed his forefinger too.

*

Magnus was sitting on Jace’s motorbike, Alec behind him.

“Turn it on,” Alec leaned against Magnus’ back with his chest, holding his hand on Magnus’. The bike’s engine started. “Good,” Alec said.

“Alexander, we’re gonna die,” Magnus stated.

“Keep the clutch here in,” Alec continued as if he hadn’t heard what Magnus said. 

“That’s the clutch?” Magnus asked, his hands were sweating and shaking. 

“Yeah, break here on your right,” Alec pulled the break in with Magnus’ hand under his. “Your gears are on the left,” Alec said and slapped Magnus’ left leg softly a couple of times. “One down,” He ordered.

“Alexander, we’re gonna ride through the Herondale’s house and break our bones and this shirt on me—” Magnus said but Alec cut him off.

“If we are lucky enough, we’ll get beds next to each other at the hospital...” Alec said and pressed a kiss on Magnus’ neck from behind. “One down,” he commanded.

Magnus took a deep breath and stepped one down on the gear.

“Okay, when we take-off—”” Alec started. 

“Alexan—”

“When we take off…” Alec raised his voice, “you’re going to give a little bit of clutch in and you’re going to go a little bit here on the break,” Alec said and led Magnus’ hands on the handlebar. 

The bike started to move slowly. “Wo-ah!” Magnus screamed with a wide grin on his face.

“That’s it!” Alec let Magnus’ hands, “That’s it!” he repeated. 

“I’m riding this bike,” Magnus said after they were three houses away from the Lightwoods’.

“You sure are,” Alec said, placing his palms on Magnus’ thighs. “I knew you could do it,” Alec whispered in Magnus’ ear from behind.

*

“...When you climbed this tree for the first time,” Alec counted and showed the tree above them.

“I fell from it,” Magnus giggled.

“Yeah, but first you climbed it,” Alec said.

*

Magnus was sitting on the lowest branch of the oak tree; Alec was waiting higher up on the tree.

“Put your other leg up there,” Alec said and pointed to a thick branch near Magnus’ waist. 

“I’m not that tall like you, you have longer legs, Alexander!” Magnus rolled his eyes.

“You have long legs; you can reach it if you hold onto that branch,” Alec said pointing to another branch, “I’ll kiss you if you make it her,” Alec licked his mouth and bit his lower lip. 

“Sorry, Alexander. I’m going to have to miss that kiss because I’m gonna live my life down here on this branch like Tarzan,” Magnus said looking down at the ground. Although he was sitting on the lowest branch, it still was high enough. “I don’t even know how I’m gonna make it down.” 

Alec climbed lower and reached his hand out for Magnus. “I wouldn’t miss a kiss from Tarzan,” Alec winked at Magnus who rolled his eyes. “Come,” he added. 

Magnus took Alec’s hand and helped Magnus climb higher on the tree. Alec leaned against the trunk of the tree and pulled Magnus to him, wrapping his arm around Magnus’ waist and placing his other hand on his neck. 

“Can I kiss you, Tarzan?” Alec looked on Magnus’ lips. 

“Tell me I didn’t make it up here for nothing,” Magnus said just before Alec pulled him in a passionate kiss. 

They were breathing heavily when they broke the kiss. Magnus stepped a little back and his feet slid from the branch, losing his balance. Everything happened too fast; he was lying on the grass the next moment. His skin was hurting; he felt a warm liquid around his nose. He saw Alec jumping down after him immediately.

“Magnus!” Alec was next to him. “Are you okay? Your nose is bleeding. You might’ve broken a few bones. I’ll take you to the hospital,” Alec said in one breath. 

“Your kiss is deadly, Alexander. I want that on my grave,” Magnus was still lying on the grass. 

Alec took off his t-shirt immediately and wiped the blood from Magnus’ face. 

“You’re just gonna make my last hours happier,” Magnus commented and trailed his fingers down on Alec’s upper body. 

“You’re not gonna die on me today,” Alec rolled his eyes. “Come...” Alec pushed his arm under Magnus’ armpit and helped him up. 

Magnus held Alec’s t-shirt to his nose, “I want to eat your mom’s apple pie one more time before I die,” Magnus begged while they were on the way back to the house. Alec only laughed.

*

“...And when you accepted that job in New York,” Alec said and Magnus pulled away from him, looking at him with arched brows.

“What? What do you mean?” Magnus asked. 

“What was your dream, Magnus?” Alec asked seriously.

“To become a fashion designer?” Magnus answered and swallowed dry, he didn’t know where this conversation was heading.

“And what did you do in New York as a fashion designer?” Alec asked, his tone and face were still serious.

“I was designing,” Magnus said in a low voice, his heart started to beat faster. Alec took a deep breath, shaking his head and looked deep into Magnus’ eyes.

“Yeah, designing what?” Alec arched an eyebrow and continued. “When you came into my coffee shop on that Sunday when I was drowning in papers Jace left for me you said you’d had a lot of paperwork... Really, Magnus? Paperwork?” Alec asked and Magnus opened and closed his mouth like a fish to answer but Alec continued, “you accepted a job and you were designing for somebody else. It wasn’t what you used to tell me before. I guess there were dressmakers who sew your clothes; you didn’t even have to thread a needle. Am I right?” Alec made a questioning look at Magnus but Magnus was speechless. “Where is the Magnus who wanted to be an independent fashion designer who sew his own dresses and suits with passion, who wanted to run his own business and sell his own clothes online? You gave up on your dream when you accepted that job. Yes, you became successful in the industry, you earned a lot of money but you didn’t do what you really wanted to do. Did you learn how to run a company while you were drawing sketches following somebody’s rules?” Alec turned his head away and Magnus couldn’t say a word. 

Alec looked into Magnus’ eyes again and placed his hand on Magnus’ cheek. “It hurt too much when you left me but it hurt even more when I found out you had given up on your dream. Because I know you are better than that,” Alec’s eyes went glassy and Magnus’ heart was aching. 

“I could always find excuses to not do something, right?” Magnus laughed bitterly and looked down but Alec lifted his head up. 

“Exactly,” Alec whispered and leaned in to kiss Magnus softly. “You asked me last night if I could ever trust you again.” Alec’s hand was still on Magnus’ face, caressing his cheekbone with his thumb and Magnus only nodded. “I can trust you because I love you with all my heart the way I have always loved you, Magnus,” Alec said with honesty and tears rolled down on Magnus’ face, “but you have to trust yourself first, you have to believe that you can do whatever you want and you can have whatever you want,” he said and brushed the hair out of Magnus’ face before he kissed him again. Magnus jumped on Alec’s lap, straddling him, cupping his face and kissing him deeply. Alec grabbed Magnus’ waist and pulled him closer to his chest. They fall on the grass and started giggling into each other’s mouth. 

“I don’t deserve you,” Magnus breathed against Alec’s lips.

“You don’t deserve me? Hello, weren’t you listening while I was talking to you, you idiot?” Alec asked and Magnus sat up suddenly. Alec was still lying on the grass, a wide grin on his face.

“Did you just call me an idiot?” Magnus asked offended. 

“Yes! I did! Why couldn’t you just say that I’m right and that you love me too? Forget your silly excuses already, be yourself and let me love you,” Alec sentenced seriously and Magnus bit on his own thumb. “Want to give me my bubble back?” Alec asked.

“Yeah,” Magnus whispered confidently. 

“Then trust yourself, be you and you can,” Alec said, “now, get off me, I think ants just attacked my back,” he said and sat up. 

Magnus started laughing, dropping his head back.

“I’m serious,” Alec said and lifted Magnus up from his lap. Alec pulled of his shirt without unbuttoning and shook it. Magnus checked Alec’s naked back, sweeping his skin.

“No ants,” Magnus said and swallowed when his gaze lingered on Alec’s upper body. 

Alec put his shirt back on and stepped in front of Magnus. “Want to run to the house?” he asked, smirking, “I’ll race you!”

“I can’t cheat in running,” Magnus stuck out his tongue and wrapped his arms around Alec’s neck.

“That’s why I’m asking,” Alec kissed his lips and placed his hands on his hips.

“What if we just walk there, holding hands?” Magnus gave Alec his candy eyes and sweetest smile. 

“God, I don’t know how to say no to your puppy face,” Alec rolled his eyes, throwing his head back. 

“I love you, Alexander,” Magnus said just before pulling Alec for a soft kiss.

***

[Norah Jones – Come Away With Me]

Magnus took the stairs in pairs, he was breathing heavier when he reached the front door and leaned against it.

“I won,” Magnus said and stuck his tongue out to Alec.

“Were we racing?” Alec asked as he reached the second floor.

“Of course we were,” Magnus rolled his eyes and smirked.

“Shouldn’t I have known about it then?” Alec narrowed his eyes and took a step forward, closing the distance between them, literally pinning Magnus against the door. Their faces were inches from one another. Magnus felt Alec’s warm body against his skin. He blinked his eyes and swallowed hard.

Magnus was calm even though his heart was racing as he looked into his beloved’s eyes; their green seemed darker. Feeling Alec so close felt so right, felt better, felt like something more. And the feeling in Magnus’ chest was intense.

“No, that was the point,” he realized, as he answered, that he had been holding his breath. Alec inhaled harshly through his nose and his eyes dropped on Magnus’ mouth just before their lips brushed. There was no rush in the kiss; it was intimate, caring, soft, and slow. They already knew each other’s mouth so there was nothing to explore, only to reunite. It wasn’t a toe-curling kiss, not the racing heart kind. It was the kind of kiss when your heart pounded louder at a steady pace.

As Alec’s hands rested on the hem of his pants, bringing their hips even closer, Magnus touched Alec’s neck, trailing his hand back and forth with soft strokes.

Magnus didn’t know how long the kiss lasted and he didn’t care either, he just enjoyed every touch. They smiled at each other both with eyes and mouths. Alec looked at Magnus like he was the only thing he’d ever wanted, making Magnus’ heart melt in a split second.

Alec put one hand away from Magnus’ hips to open the door behind him, holding onto him so they didn’t fall. They entered the apartment without breaking eye contact. There was nothing in the world right then, only the two of them.

Alec leaned forward for Magnus’ lips again, pushing him carefully against the door again, this time from the inside, closing the door with a move. Magnus ran his fingers through Alec’s dark hair, as he tasted his mouth again. Magnus’ legs weakened and he wanted more because it wasn’t enough.  Not that he could ever get enough from Alec.

When they broke the kiss again, Alec smiled at him in a sweet way. Magnus licked his lip on a reflex as he looked at Alec’ mouth. He had no time for taking a breath as Alec’s lips were on his again. But this time everything was passionate, intense, longing, and sensual. Alec’s hold on Magnus’ hips, the way he pressed his body against his, the way he bit on his bottom lip.

Magnus cupped Alec’s face, and pulled his head back. They were breathing heavily, looking into each other’s eyes. He cleared his mouth.

“Alexander…” Magnus breathed, sliding his hand on the back of Alec’s neck.

“I want you Magnus, I’ve missed you—” Alec said just before he stared covering Magnus with open-mouth kisses on his neck, right beneath his ear. “I need you—” he breathed against Magnus’ skin. “I want to make love to you,” Alec whispered in Magnus’ ear and shivers ran up and down on his beloved, every nerve ending in his body was tingling because of Alec’s words.

Magnus tilted his head and let out a wanton moan freely, not that he wanted to show any resistance against Alec’s adoring, “are… are you—” Magnus couldn’t put a simple question together because of his gasps “…sure?” But he needed to know if Alec was, till his own brain functioned properly.

“More than sure,” Alec said and bit on Magnus’ earlobe.

“Oh, thank God—” Magnus moaned and pushed Alec away a little, cupping his face again to bring their lips together.

They crossed the living room area, not breaking the kiss even for a moment on the way to the bedroom. Magnus made Alec sit down with a light, gentle pull. He sat on his lap right after that. Magnus started undoing the buttons on Alec’s white shirt, working on them one by one, exposing the pale skin inch by inch. Alec parted his lips, breathing quickly as Magnus pressed small kisses when he freed Alec from his shirt, discarding it on the floor.

Alec trailed his hands from Magnus’ own, along his arms to his shoulders, stopping at the back of his neck. He unhitched Magnus’ necklaces one by one, pulling off each ring. Magnus turned his head and Alec carefully removed his ear-cuff, placing the jewelry on his white shirt.

Magnus heart was racing; his skin was tingling from Alec’s touches. He examined his love’s face while he started to work on his shirt. He was beautiful; his long lashes seemed blacker in the dim light coming from the bedroom open door. Alec licked his lips when he disentangled all the buttons on Magnus’ shirt and pressed soft, gentle kisses on Magnus’ chest, trailing his way up to his collarbone, up to his neck. Magnus dropped his head back and moaned sensually, holding on to Alec shoulders immediately, so as to not fall back from their movements. Alec held onto Magnus’ hip, keeping him steady on his lap, keeping them together while he didn’t even stop petting Magnus’ neck for a second.

***

[Kurt Hugo Schneider & Austin Percario – Never Be the Same]

It had been ten years. Magnus Bane had left his hometown almost on the same date ten years ago to make his dreams come true. He hadn’t stepped in Maysville ever since. The date was drawing close and he couldn’t help but reminiscence and think back.

On that certain late autumn day when he had accepted the job at one of the biggest fashion companies in New York, he hadn’t realized that he was giving up on love, on his dreams, on the life he’d always imagined for himself, but most of all, he hadn’t realized he was giving up on himself.

And mistakes followed mistakes. And the time he had spent away had grown as an unpaid dept in him with every second, every minute, every hour, every day, and every year, making it even harder for him to face the biggest mistake of his life; leaving Alec Lightwood. His Alexander. His high school sweetheart. The love of his life.

He thought he could never have that love back in his life. He thought he could never hold him in his arms again.

Everything had seemed lost and insolvable when he had first booked his flight back to Maysville, He had not cared about what was going to happen in New York, he had not cared about what was going to happen if Alec rejected him, he had not cared about tomorrow.

The only thing he wanted to free himself from was all the pain, which had grown in him during those years and confess the truth to Alec. He needed to tell him how he felt about him, about being ready to fight for his love and also about being ready to suffer the consequences of his mistakes for a lifetime.

Magnus Bane was his own enemy. He could destroy himself with his own thoughts, he could make simple things difficult for himself, and he could make himself insane by his own mind. He could become uncertain in a split second and change from self-confident to insecure in disguise under excuses and objections.

Alec had always trusted him, and had kept him on the right path. He had always believed in him. He always saw the real Magnus Bane.

He needed Alec to feel complete. He needed Alec to be happy. He needed Alec to be inspired. He needed Alec to feel free. He needed Alec by his side to be able to be… himself again.

It had taken him thirty-one years–twenty-one full of happiness and ten years of painful sadness – to realize who he really was and what he needed in his life. However, it was never too late to find a way back, to make up for the mistakes.

For the first time in ten years, he felt home again. 

“I love you with all of my heart, Alexander,” Magnus whispered looking up into Alec’s eyes, brushing the hair from Alec’s forehead.  Magnus was lying on his back with Alec so close to him and the scent of his beloved was filling his senses.

Alec smiled softly at him, then leaned down and kissed him. Every inch of Magnus’ body tingled as their lips touched.

They were truly making love after all those years. Even though they had spent a night together after the wedding, this was different. That night had been a confession without words, filled with pain, sadness, loneliness, heartache, and sorrow.

Making love to Alec had been like drifting between gentle caresses and gripping passion as they took their time in their pleasurable happiness. It had been long, lingering touches, fondness and heady desire with longing addiction.

This was their reunion, their new old them. This was Alec and Magnus and their true, honest love for each other.

***

[Boyce Avenue – Every Breath You Take]

Magnus woke up the next morning; the cotton cover was warm against his bare skin. He felt a warmer weight on his waist. He smiled when he recognized Alec’s arm around him. He could feel Alec’s breath on his shoulder at a calm and steady pace; their bare bodies in a tangle of each other’s limbs and his smile grew wider at the memory of their night together.

He blinked his eyes open slowly. The sunrays found their way now between the curtains, making three perfect lines through the dark room. Magnus lifted his head little higher from the pillow, glanced over Alec at the clock on the bedside table on his side of the bed. It was 8:49.

Alec hadn’t woken up to go running. He hadn’t left Magnus like he did yesterday. Magnus was just lying on his side for minutes, watching Alec’s sleep, facing him. Magnus felt an overjoyed pressure in his chest that he could let himself do it this time. He could drink in Alec’s sleeping presence on a Sunday morning.

After a while, he reached out his hand and slowly hauled the tip of his index finger from Alec’s forehead down along his temple and cheekbone, stopping at the edge of his mouth. Magnus gaze was on his lips, he trailed his finger gently with a feather touch from one side of Alec’s full, lower lip to the other side, backwards on his upper lip.

His look lingered on Alec’s mouth, and then wandered up to his perfect nose, then higher up until meeting Alec’s already opened eyes. Alec was staring at him wholeheartedly, and the edge of his mouth rose slightly under the tip of Magnus’ finger.

“I’ve missed this,” Magnus whispered.

“What? Waking me up so cruelly?” Alec said in a low voice and cleared his throat lightly.

“Yeah… That,” Magnus only agreed and smiled at him softly. He didn’t want to get into that, the moment was more than perfect and Magnus guessed Alec clearly knew what he meant.

“I’ve missed this too,” Alec said just before pulling Magnus closer to him and pressing a kiss on his forehead.

Then, all of a sudden, Alec let Magnus go from his embrace and rolled on his back to his other side and Magnus frowned. When he turned back on his back, his iPhone was in his hand. Magnus smiled again now about the fact that Alec just fished his phone out of his pants which were on the floor next to the bed.

“What are you doing?” Magnus asked when he saw Alec typing quickly, holding his iPhone with both hands.

“Texting Daisy to save some pastries for us,” Alec stated and turned to Magnus who made a face. “What? I have nothing to eat here,” Alec added, making Magnus laugh.

“Tell her to send me those videos already,” Magnus said seriously and Alec turned to Magnus, smirking.

“You don’t have them?” Alec asked with a wide grin on his face. “I can send them to you,” he added and looked back on the screen.

“You have them? Did you watch them?” Magnus’ eyes widened and Alec didn’t answer, only bit on his lower lip without looking at him. “Am I the only one in this town who hasn’t seen those videos?” Magnus asked offended. “Alexander?” Magnus pulled the phone out of Alec’s hands and rolled onto his other side with it.

“Hey!” Alec slipped toward Magnus from behind. Magnus’ breath hitched as he felt Alec’s bare body against his. He wrapped his arm around Magnus’ waist, resting his chin on Magnus’ shoulder.

Magnus entered Alec’s photos, finding the videos quickly, playing one of them.

“Oh God,” Magnus exclaimed and buried his face in the pillow immediately as he heard his singing.

“What? You are singing amazing and you look so beautiful, Magnus,” Alec told him softly; pressing little kisses on Magnus’ shoulder. “You just seem so… free.”

“I can’t believe I did this totally sober,” Magnus groaned in the pillow.

Alec reached across Magnus who was holding the device in his hand. “I’ll show you my favorite,” he said and stopped the video.

“You have a favorite?” Magnus turned his head to face Alec immediately.

“Yup,” Alec answered and started another one.

Magnus’ eyes widened as he recognized the song and turned to face Alec in his embrace, dropping the iPhone on the bed, cupping Alec’s face and kissing him passionately.

He remembered when he was singing that song. He remembered sitting on the sidewalk with closed eyes. He was imagining Alec in front of him as he was singing. He was singing to him. He was feeling so great, and so happy on the day after their date.

***

[Keith Urban – Coming Home (feat. Julia Michaels)]

Magnus took a shower, the stood in front of Alec’s closet with his towel on his waist, looking for a t-shirt and sweatpants to wear when he heard Alec was back from the coffee shop. He dressed up quickly and went out of the bedroom.

“You have some really nice clothes in there, I have to say,” Magnus said when he took a seat at the kitchen island.

“I wouldn’t mind it if it stays like that,” Alec announced and served the pastries on plates.

“I won’t steal your nice clothes, just the ugly ones,” Magnus reached across for a plate and took a bite from a croissant. “I love your t-shirts with little holes, tears, and in shreds,” Magnus said with a full mouth.

Alec just smiled and went around the island sitting next to Magnus. “What are your plans for today?” he asked and started eating.

“I’d like to work a little today. I started a new post on my blog, I’d like to finish it actually,” Magnus explained. “Why?”

“Hum, just asking,” Alec sipped from his coffee.

“You can come, if you want,” Magnus offered and smiled at Alec.

“I don’t want to bother you. Besides, Jace wants to see me,” Alec said.

“You never bother me,” Magnus rested his head on Alec’s shoulder. Alec kissed his head.

***

[Freedie – Pioneer]

They ate their breakfast and Alec took Magnus to his parents’ house. Their goodbye was a more than twenty-minute make-out session in the car. They only could tear apart when Alec’s phone started ringing.

Magnus greeted his parents after he went inside, ignoring the knowing looks from them. Magnus felt he was blushing only from a smile Jocelyn gave him, and from a grin Luke showed when he glanced at him.

Magnus went to the workroom and continued the dress he’d been making before. The lower part was almost done, so he started to work on the top.

He only took a break when Jocelyn announced that lunch was served.

It started getting dark and Magnus had to turn more lights on. He fished out his phone from his pocket and typed a message to Alec. He knew he was pathetic but he wanted Alec to know that he was thinking about him.

Me: I love you and I’m so inspired today. :)

He pressed the send button.

Alexander: I love you too. :* Still don’t wanna let me know what your inspiration is? ;)

Magnus smiled and glanced at the dress on the mannequin. He walked closer to it and smoothed his fingers on the thin, glassy top layer and on the lower part of the dress and sat on the floor next to it.

He was staring at the blinking cursor on his screen for minutes before he typed a message.

Me: You. It’s always you.

Magnus message was simple, but it said everything.

Alexander: :) : *

Magnus was staring at the dress for a few more minutes then he stood up and went to continue sewing.

When he was finished for the day he went to take a shower. After that, he turned his MacBook on and updated his blog with a new, long post about his dressmaking process.

He quickly typed a goodnight text to Alec and fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.

***

He woke up early on Monday morning because his stuff was going to be delivered that day. He reached for his phone on the bedside table, noticing a last night’s message from Alec.

Alexander: I love you too. Good night!

He was smiling when he read it. Then he scrolled down his notifications. His blog had exploded. His followers had loved the dress; he even had some offers for the dress already. Magnus started laughing freely.

He got out of the bed and dressed up. He had a breakfast and a little chat with Jocelyn. He also felt really good updating his mom about Alec, about how things were going so well. And he saw Jocelyn was sincerely happy for him.

She gave Magnus a peck on the forehead and went to work. He called Clary while he headed into the workroom. He could make some final fittings on the dress while he was talking to her until the moving company’s truck arrived.

***

[John Newman – Fire in Me]

Magnus was standing with crossed arms on the sidewalk in front of his parents’ house, watching the moving company’s workers unload and carry his stuff from the truck into the house. He glanced on the road when he heard a car’s engine close. It was Alec’s shiny black pickup; he pulled down next to the sidewalk, keeping some distance behind the truck.

Magnus looked back at the truck’s platform when he heard a loud noise. He pressed his lips and eyes together when he realized that a worker had dropped a box. One, he started to count. He decided to give them three chances for mistakes. They were only humans and who was Magnus to blame them for making mistakes. Alec was next to him then, handing him a takeaway coffee and giving a quick kiss on his cheek. 

“Oh God, I love you,” Magnus took the paper-mug from Alec, sipping from it immediately. He looked at Alec who was smiling softly; he was holding a takeaway too.

“How is it going?” Alec pointed at the truck with the index of the hand he was holding his drink in; he then sipped from it. 

“Going well, actually,” Magnus turned to Alec with his body, but his head was still on the way where the truck was, his gaze on the workers, “the garage, the basement, and half of the living room are already full. They’re filling the dining room now,” Magnus explained and now looked at Alec who was staring at the workers too. “How is that you’re here? Not that I’m complaining,” Magnus asked and stepped in front of Alec, placing his free hand on Alec’s chest, looking into his eyes. 

“I called you but you didn’t pick up,” Alec looked at Magnus. 

“Oh God,” Magnus said, taking a step back, slapping the pockets on his pants. He grabbed Alec’s hand and started to drag him towards the house, “I’m sorry, Alexander, I probably forgot it in the workroom.” 

“It’s okay,” Alec commented when they were in the porch. “I just wanted to ask if you wanted to spend the night at my place,” Alec asked and Magnus stopped, letting Alec’s hand go and turning around on his heels, looking at Alec who was already rubbing the back of his neck. Magnus smiled.

“I thought you’d never ask,” Magnus said and tiptoed for a kiss. “I missed you so much last night.” He added and took Alec’s coffee out of his hand, placing the two paper-mugs on the railing.

“You know, it’s actually pretty hard to ask if I can’t reach you...” Alec bit on his lower lip and Magnus rolled his eyes.

“I was busy as you can see,” Magnus said offended and pointed at the truck by the sidewalk.

“Bossing people around with your arms crossed?” Alec stepped closer, licking his lips.

“I think you’re talking about me, not yourself,” Magnus leaned in, lips almost brushing, “you’re the bossy one,” Magnus added just before he turned around and walked to the front door.

They entered the house. “Wo-ah,” Magnus heard Alec’s voice from behind, “and this is only a part of your stuff? What if you’d got everything delivered?” he asked when they passed by the living room by and Magnus bit on his lip.

“It’s not that much, Alexander,” Magnus said heading to the workroom, “I’m gonna check three apartments tomorrow with Clary,” he said and turned around suddenly in the workroom’s door. Alec almost bumped into him. “Are you busy tomorrow? Could you come with us? They’re all in downtown, it won’t take long and... It would mean a lot to me,” Magnus asked without taking a breath, unable to read Alec’s expression. “Forget it. You’ll probably be very busy...” Magnus said when Alec didn’t reply.

“No, I can make myself free!” Alec cupped Magnus’ face. “You said it’d mean a lot to you, so I’m coming with you,” Alec said softly and Magnus smiled at him.

“Thank you.” Magnus said just before he pecked the tip of Alec’s nose.

Alec let him go and Magnus turned around and entered the workroom, heading to the worktable, hearing Alec’s steps behind him. The whole surface of the worktable was a mess, covered with patterns and fabric, impossible to find his phone. Magnus turned around.

“Could you call–” Magnus froze, Alec was staring at the dress on the mannequin, reaching out. He brushed his fingers along it. Magnus saw how carefully Alec was with the fabric. “Do you like it?” Magnus asked proudly.

Alec’s gaze was on the dress, and Magnus saw that Alec swallowed. “Yeah, it’s beautiful, Magnus.”

“Thank you,” he said and walked next to Alec, koala-hugging his arm, “I’ve been working on this for almost a week now,” Magnus rested his head on Alec’s shoulder, watching the dress.

“A week?” Alec asked surprised.

“Yup,” Magnus popped the p at the end and continued, “I’ve already got offers for it.”

“What?” Alec asked confused.

“I’ve been posting about the dressmaking process at my blog. And some of my followers have made me an offer for it. But I don’t think I’m gonna sell it, you know?” Magnus explained and let Alec’s arm, stepping closer to the dress, fixing the layer on it.

“Why not?” Alec asked in a low voice.

Magnus shrugged. “It’s my first dress since I came back, it’s also been my first for a long time,” Magnus stepped in front of Alec, pushing his hand into his pocket. “Jocelyn said the dress looks like trees,” Magnus said while he fished Alec’s phone out of his pocket. “Maybe I’ll give it to Isabelle,” He let out a laugh and unlocked the iPhone’s screen, dialling his number, “Simon is green, he’d love it on her,” Magnus added and Alec laughed too.

Magnus heard his iPhone’s ringing and went looking for it. He ended the call when he found it under a massive pack of fabric.

***

[Kygo – Never Let You Go (feat. John Newman) ACOUSTIC]

They were sitting on the couch at Alec’s place watching a movie. Alec legs were stretched out in front of him, resting his feet on the coffee table. Magnus was sitting close to him; his head on Alec’s chest, legs across his lap. Alec was resting his hand on Magnus’ thigh, stroking circles with his thumb against the fabric, caressing Magnus’ back with the other.

“I think Luke is up to something!” Magnus pulled away suddenly, “Did you see his face when he arrived? Like he didn’t even notice that the house was full of boxes,” Magnus said worried.

“I think he just doesn’t care...” Alec shrugged.

“Huh! That’s the point Alexander. He makes me think that he doesn’t care and–” Magnus froze. “Oh. My. God.” He said dramatically, touching his forehead with the back of his hand, closing his eyes, taking deep breaths.

“What?” Alec squeezed his thigh lightly.

“I’m a hundred per cent sure now that he’s burning all my clothes right at this moment, Alexander,” Magnus buried his face into Alec’s collarbone. Alec started laughing.

“I’m sure he isn’t,” Alec giggled and pulled Magnus back against his body.

“I’m hope you’re right,” Magnus whispered.

They continued watching the movie; Alec caressed Magnus’ back slightly. Alec started to kiss the top of Magnus’ head after a while and his hug grew tighter around Magnus’ body.

“What you told me–” Alec started talking into Magnus’ hair, “when you came back to Maysville,” his voice was low but Magnus clearly heard him.

“I’m sure I said a plenty of things that night,” Magnus answered.

“When you brought me the papers,” Alec said and Magnus’ heart skipped a beat.

“Yeah,” Magnus swallowed dry. He clearly remembered every word he had told Alec even though he was overwhelmed by his mixed feelings.

“Did you really mean it?” Alec was still talking into Magnus’ hair. Magnus felt his heartbeats in his throat; he was confused. He didn’t know why Alec was asking about that now. He had already told him he really meant it the day after that.

Somehow, Magnus also had a pain in his chest because he didn’t know where Alec was going with this. Magnus pulled away slowly, afraid to meet Alec’s gaze, not ready what he could see in his eyes. He felt he was getting insecure again.

“You’re making theories in your head as to why I’m asking...” Alec said just before their eyes met. “Am I right?” Alec asked with a wide grin on his face.

“Alexander...” Magnus knew he couldn’t hide his sincere expression, which probably reflected that he was afraid. “I’ve meant every single word,” Magnus clenched his teeth together.

“Good,” Alec licked his lips, and leaned forward to press a kiss on Magnus’ mouth, “then we can move in together,” he said when he pulled away. Magnus was blinking continuously, finding it hard to believe what he was hearing.

“What?” Magnus asked, shaking his head, trying to bring him back to reality. He was sure he was dreaming.

 “The building next door,” Alec pointed behind him with his thumb, “our property,” Alec was nodding continuously with wide eyes like he was explaining something to a child. Magnus couldn’t breath.

“Yeah,” Magnus arched a brow. Alec groaned and threw his head back against the back of the couch, eyes locked on the ceiling.

“Move in with me, you silly,” Alec said when he looked at Magnus again.

The corners of Magnus’ mouth rose and he was on Alec’s lap at the next moment.

“So you won’t sell the property?” Magnus wrapped his arms around Alec’s neck. 

“We wanted to live there, remember?” Alec asked, Magnus bit on his bottom lip when he heard we, nodding continuously, “I didn’t really want to sell it after you came back but to be honest, I wasn’t sure about moving in together so soon,” Alec explained, pushing his hands under Magnus’ t-shirt, grabbing him by the hips, caressing the bare skin with his thumbs.

Magnus arched a brow. He didn’t understand why Alec had agreed to go looking for an apartment with him and Clary.

“What made you change your mind then? Seeing my stuff being unloaded from the truck?” Magnus asked confused.

Alec shook his head. “Your dress.” 

“What?” Magnus whispered.

“Today when I saw the dress you designed, I realized that you are really back. The Magnus I know, the man I’ve been fallen in love with fourteen years ago is back and I don’t want to wait anymore.  I’ve been waiting for you for ten years already and I want you. I want you now,” Alec confessed and Magnus smiled lightly just before he pressed Alec against the back of the couch and kissed him.

“We are moving in together,” Magnus said against Alec’s lips.

“If you want to,” Alec tried to talk with his lower lip between Magnus’ teeth.

“I want to, I want to... I want to move in with you right now,” Magnus cupped Alec’s face, brushing their foreheads together. Magnus had never felt happier.

“I don’t want to kill the mood, but the building needs a proper renovation...” Alec whispered. “But you can move here until the renovation done,” he added.

“Okay,” Magnus pressed a kiss on Alec’s mouth. “Okay,” he breathed.

“Good,” Alec said just before he grabbed Magnus’ hips a bit hard, making Magnus moan unwittingly, taking the advantage and pulling his tongue into Magnus’ mouth, deepening the kiss.

They were breathing heavily when they pulled away.

“It’s gonna be great to have a laundry downstairs,” Magnus said.

“How do you know about the laundry?” Alec frowned.

“Clary told me. She was also hoping you won’t sell it, so that Jace can open the laundry he’s been dreaming of,” Magnus explained and Alec’s expression turned shocked.

He pushed Magnus on the couch suddenly and stood up quickly. “You told Clary about the property?” he ran his fingers through his hair. Magnus was watching him motionless, his heart started racing, not in a good way.

“Yeah,” Magnus only whispered.

“Oh God,” Alec sighed and rubbed his palms against his face and started to pace back and forth in the living room.

“I’m so sorry, Alexander,” Magnus apologized.

“Jace can’t open the laundry there,” Alec stopped.

“Why?” Magnus only whispered, he didn’t dare move, his heart was aching because he might have done something wrong again.

“Don’t be so clueless, Magnus, because I swear to God that I’ll kick your ass,” Alec almost shouted to Magnus who leaned back against the back of couch taken by surprise. He felt a tear rolling down his cheek.

“Alexander...” Magnus only whispered.

Alec turned around and went to a table near the front door; he was searching in the bowl where he kept his car keys. He put on his shoes. Magnus’ heart was about to break. Alec was going to leaving him; the pain in his chest grew tighter. He didn’t dare move.

Alec turned around and walked to Magnus with his black Converse sneakers in his hand. “Put these on,” he dropped the shoes on the floor.

Magnus did what Alec said and he couldn’t help it, he started crying. Alec wasn’t going to leave him; he was going to take him to his parents’.

“Why are you crying?” Alec frowned at him. Magnus wiped his nose.

“I’m so sorry,” Magnus was in tears, “but I can walk to my parents’ by myself.”

“What?” Alec asked, looking back and forth between Magnus’ eyes. “You think I’m taking you to back the suburbs?” Alec asked and dropped his head back and let out a suffering groan. “Okay, I’m dealing with you when we get back. Now, come!” Alec said and grabbed Magnus’ hand, dragging him out of the apartment.

They rushed out of the building, not caring about closing the doors. Alec was walking fast enough with his long legs, Magnus had to run to keep up with him. They passed the coffee shop and the main entrance to second floor next door. Alec stopped at the parlor’s front door and he was checking the keys.

Magnus noticed that Alec didn’t even look around to check if anybody saw them entering or something. Alec found the right key and pushed into the lock. The door opened and Alec grabbed Magnus’ hand again and dragged him into.

As they were inside, Alec let go of Magnus’ hand. He couldn’t see him in the dark; only a dim light came into through the opened parlor door. Magnus shut his eyes closed on reflex as the sudden bright light was turned on.

Magnus opened his eyes and his jaw fell open. Alec was standing little further in front of him.

“This is your shop, studio, workplace… whatever you wanna call it, Magnus. I know it also needs a proper renovation, but you have some equipment to start with. Two worktables,” Alec pointed to the wide tables in the each sides of the area, and then turned around, “that sewing machine,” he walked further inside and stopped by the machine, placing his palm on it. Magnus couldn’t breathe. It was a professional sewing machine. Alec bent down and lifted up a dusty box from the floor, placing next to the sewing machine. “There are needles, pins, threads, sequins, and–” Alec pulled out a reel from the box and frowned as he was checking the reel between his forefinger and thumb, “and stuff,” he added and Magnus bit back his smile that Alec didn’t know what he was holding, “and all kinds of fabric,” he said and tossed the reel back into the box.

Magnus was about to faint, he just couldn’t believe his eyes.

The whole place was huge. Huge enough to make out a studio to design, a small office, a kitchenette, a waiting area, a trying-on cubicle, a storage room for fabric. Fabric. Alec’s last words echoed in his head.

“Fabric?” Magnus asked.

“In the boxes,” Alec said and pointed at the larger boxes all around the place. Magnus didn’t even notice when they entered because of his shock. Magnus kneeled down next to the nearest one and opened it immediately.

“Alexander–” Magnus only whispered. There were no words for what he felt in that moment.

Alec crouched next to him. “There is fabric in the boxes on the second floor, too,” he said in a low voice and Magnus’ eyes widened.

“You said there was stuff from work in them,” Magnus stated and looked into Alec’s shining eyes.

“I didn’t tell you whose work,” Alec only smirked.

Magnus though he was dreaming. He couldn’t believe it. But he had to… He had to believe. Because Alec still trusted him, he hadn’t gotten rid of these things during the ten years Magnus was away.

Alec placed his hand on Magnus’ cheek, looking into his eyes. Magnus felt a tear rolled down but Alec wiped it away with his thumb.

“Do you want it, Magnus?” Alec asked in a low voice.

Magnus wrapped his arms around Alec’s neck, making him sit on the floor. He straddled him immediately. Magnus was hugging him so strong, feeling Alec’s arms around his waist suddenly.

“Oh, Alexander Gideon Lightwood,” Magnus whispered against Alec’s neck. “I can’t believe it,”

“I figured,” Alec said and Magnus had the feeling that he was rolling his eyes, “that’s why I want a share in your business,” he added and Magnus pulled away, looking at him. Alec was grinning.

Magnus gave him a questioning look.

“What?” Alec laughed. “I’ve invested in you,” he said teasingly and Magnus laughed too.

“Bossy,” Magnus breathed against Alec’s lips, just before he kissed him softly and gently.

“You like it?” Alec asked when their lips were only barely brushing.

“I love it,” Magnus answered. “And I love you so very much,” he added and pulled Alec into a hug.

“I’m glad you love it and that you didn’t come up with your excuses,” Alec said.

“Thank you, Alexander. Thank you for believing in me, thank you for trusting me,” Magnus leaned back and looked into Alec’s eyes. “I can’t wait to work here. I’m starting to get excited already,” Magnus’ gaze wandered around the place.

“Okay, then the whole building’s renovation starts tomorrow,” Alec announced and made Magnus get off his lap.

Alec straightened himself and grabbed Magnus’ hand and led him to the parlor’s windows.

“Magnus Bane, are you ready to make your dreams come true?” Alec asked and reached his arms high up and made a grip on the newspaper, which covered the windows. Magnus got the hint.

“I’m so ready,” he jumped up, grabbing the paper with both hands, tearing it down.

When all the papers were on the floor, Magnus ran to Alec and jumped on him, wrapping his arms around his neck and his legs around his waist. Alec lost his balance; almost falling back but he steadied themselves.

“I love you!” Alec whispered.

“I love you!” Magnus brushed the hair from Alec’s hair and pressed a kiss on his lips.

Alec took Magnus down on his feet and cupped his face.

“You, being idiotic, silly, and clueless before is not forgotten!” Alec said in a low voice, licking his lips. “We go back up now and you’re gonna get more than you’ve bargained for,” Alec said seriously and Magnus’ breath hitched.

“Have I told you how delicious my Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is?” Magnus showed his sweetest smile, trying to distract Alec from the punishment he was planning. Alec groaned, dropping his head back.

“Lucky you, I have the grocery’s key with me so we can hit it for some shopping,” Alec said proudly and let Magnus go. It wasn’t that Magnus was planning on avoiding Alec’s ass kicking but he was wholeheartedly willing to cook for him for the rest of their lives to make it up for all the mistakes he’d made.

***

Thanksgiving

[Sigala & Paloma Faith – Lullaby]

Magnus heard Alec opening the front door, and rushed out of the bedroom with a pair of his designer boots in his hand.

“It’s official, Alexander!” Magnus cried out and went to close the door behind Alec because his hands were full with the plastic bags he was carrying. He was back from the groceries; he’d done the shopping for the Thanksgiving’s dinner. Alec headed to the open kitchen.

The whole building’s renovation had taken two months, so, they could move in in the middle of autumn. Everybody was happy for them, except for Jace was a bit upset, and he still hadn’t gotten over the fact that he could have opened a laundry years ago in that place.

 Clary was very excited to help Magnus with the decorations, choosing painting, furniture and draperies. Magnus got used to Clary’s random crying. She was an emotional rollercoaster. One time, she even made her brother cry too about a plain rug, because of how good it was going to be just sitting on it with hot chocolate in their hands on a cold winter night.

There had been one big fight between the siblings when Clary mentioned that armchair Alec had chosen for the living room, and which she thought looked like a kangaroo. That was the point when Magnus left Clary at the store. They didn’t talk for two long days. Luke wanted to arrest him again for being heartless with a pregnant lady. Magnus sewed baby crib clothes for his little niece not only as an apology but also because he was the best soon-to-be-uncle of the world and Clary cried again and forgave Magnus.

Magnus and Alec decided to mix their taste, Alec’s simplicity with Magnus’ excessiveness.

They left the main brick walls untouched; the ceiling had been covered with plasterboard and painted white. The whole place was very open; everything was bright as the autumn sunshine coming through the wide windows.

The floor in the whole apartment was dark wooden.

In the kitchen, the cupboards were white, the U-shaped counters light wood with a black stone countertop. There was a large, white kitchen island with the same stone top in the middle and five tall stools. 

There was a huge, grey L-shaped couch in the living room with fluffy and colorful decor pillows in every size; there was a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf on one wall.

In the dining area, there was a long mahogany dining table with ten chairs.

Their bedroom was simple yet intimate. There was a king-sized bed in on the opposite wall to the entrance. Magnus had sewn their bed covers. All blue, he’d told Alec that his fair skin was beautiful against the blue and he just loved it. Also Magnus sewed all the curtains for every window in the whole place.

Although they had been living in the apartment for a while, there were still a few things that needed to be fixed.

“What is it?” Alec placed all the bags on the counter, looking at the boots in Magnus’ hand.

“That cat hates me!” Magnus pointed at Church who was sleeping on the couch in the living room. “Nobody hates me!” he added.

Alec took a deep breath. “What did he do this time?” he said and started to unpack the bags.

“He peed on these,” Magnus held up his boots. “On these!” Magnus held them closer to Alec; “do you know what that means?” Magnus asked angrily and Alec shook his head with confused and wide eyes, “his soul is probably as black as your coffee, Alexander,” Magnus stated in a deep but low voice, trying to sound more effective.

“I’m gonna buy you new ones,” Alec stepped in front of Magnus, cupping his face but his pained expression didn’t change. “Why didn’t you just close the closet’s door?” Alec asked just before he pressed a soft kiss on Magnus’ pouting lips.

Magnus slid from Alec’s hands and walked to the garbage bin, “I can’t when I’m inside. You know how hard it is to come out of the closet,” Magnus explained, turning back and holding up his index finger, “no pun intended,” he added and took a deep breath through his nose, closing his eyes before throwing the boots in the bin.

“I’ll check that lock then, I’ll go to the hardware store and get a new one, so that I can fix it,” Alec said and continued unpacking the bags.

“I love that you’re a handy man,” Magnus walked next to Alec, trailing his finger on Alec’s upper body in a random path, “can you do that shirtless? You know, just to make my mood better…” Magnus pouted again and showed his sad puppy face.

“Magnus...” Alec rolled his eyes. 

“What?” Magnus asked, trailing his finger down to Alec’s waistband. “I can’t remember when was the last time we were together,” he said and slid his hand under Alec’s long sleeve, V-neck t-shirt he loved so much. 

“Last Sunday,” Alec said matter-of-factly without looking at Magnus.

“Feels like years,” Magnus groaned and dropped his head back dramatically. 

“Because you’re working hard and I’m working hard too, we are busy and tired by the end of the day,” Alec explained.

Magnus had opened his own studio, and he had started his own website, and had started selling his clothes by bidding them. Currently, he was working hard on Izzy’s wedding dress, since Simon had randomly asked for her hand on the last day of summer, when they were jamming on the street again. This time Magnus wasn’t that sober, also, Alec had been there too to make him dizzy while he was singing. He’d received those videos the next morning.

“True but still,” Magnus agreed.

“And we have to wait a little more for that,” Alec went to the fridge, picking out a bottle of water.

“Why?” Magnus asked and stepped between Alec’s legs who was leaning against the counter. Magnus hooked his arms around Alec’s neck.

“Because your friends are gonna stay the night. And you’re not that quiet, I might add,” Alec said when he pulled the bottle away from his mouth, “also because tomorrow evening our whole family is invited for dinner… I’m sure the both of us are gonna be tired by the end of it.” he added and sipped from the bottle again.

“There’s always some energy left to get ourselves more exhausted.” Magnus rubbed his body teasingly against Alec’s. “Talking about the sounds I make, I’m not ashamed of you being excellent in bed. Besides, have you heard yourself?” Magnus bit his lower lip, looking at Alec who was already blushing, “but I can try being quiet. I promise.” Magnus leaned in.

“No,” Alec freed himself from Magnus’ embrace suddenly.

“We will see if you can resist me,” he continued teasing.

“Okay, I’m off to the hardware store,” Alec pressed a quick kiss on Magnus’ mouth. “I’ll be home soon.”

***

Magnus started preparing for cooking while Alec was away. When he came back home he fixed the lock on the closet’s door.

Magnus found the strength and didn’t bother him for being such a handy man. The urge was way too big but he focused on cooking.

“Are you sure we shouldn’t go to pick them up at the airport?” Alec asked as he leaned against the kitchen counter next to Magnus who was chopping the vegetables.

“They are New Yorkers, Alexander, but Catarina and Ragnor can drive. They are okay renting a car,” Magnus smiled at Alec. “Did I tell you about the time we went to a road-trip?”

“No?” Alec frowned.

“Yeah, we did. Actually, we had to turn back as we were driving across the Hudson River because Raphael got homesick... like... literally, sick...” Magnus made a face from the memory.

“You told me he’s traveled the whole world,” Alec said confused.

“Yeah, he totally did. He only has problem when it comes to leaving New York by road. Flying out is okay,” Magnus said and Alec made a face, “I know, it’s weird.”

Alec crossed his arms in front of him, looking over his head. Magnus placed the knife on the chopping board and stepped close to Alec.

“Are you nervous?” Magnus asked softly.

“A bit,” Alec answered.

“Don’t be! I’m sure they’ll love you,” Magnus smiled at Alec and stroked his arm.

***

Magnus opened the front door. “Welcome to our home, my dearest friends!” he greeted Catarina, Ragnor and Raphael with Alec by his side.

“Magnus, it’s so good to see you!” Catarina was at his neck already. Magnus wrapped his arms around her waist.

“Hey, Cat!” Magnus said when they pulled away; Catarina’s gaze was on Alec who smiled. Magnus’ heart melted every time from that smile. “This is Alexander. You’ve heard a lot about him…”

Catarina froze; the smile disappeared from her face. She looked at Alec from head to toe. Alec glanced at Magnus confused. Catarina looked around the place and headed to the living room fast.

“What’s happening?” Alec leaned closer to Magnus, whispering in his ear. Magnus was as confused as Alec could have been. Then Magnus’ eyes widened when Catarina grabbed a pillow from the couch, rushing back towards Magnus.

“Oh God, no!” Magnus already knew what was going to happen, and Ragnor and Raphael could have had some idea because they started laughing.

“Magnus Bane! You idiot!” Catarina started to hit Magnus with the pillow. “You. Are. The. Biggest. Idiot. On. Earth!”

“Enough! Cat!” Magnus held his arms over his head to defense himself.

Catarina stopped hitting Magnus after a little while and pressed the pillow into Magnus’ arms forcefully with an angry look. Then she turned to Alec and blew her hair out of her face. The sweet smile appeared on her face again.

“I’m sorry Alec, I should have done this on Thanksgiving ten years ago,” she said and pulled Alec into a hug, “I’m so glad to finally meet you.”

“Me too, Catarina,” Alec was grinning widely and Magnus rolled his eyes.

***

[Keith Urban – Somebody Like You]

After Magnus and Alec gave Magnus’ friends a tour around the apartment, everybody took a seat at the dining table, while Magnus and Alec served the meal.

“I like them,” Alec whispered to Magnus on the way to the dining area with serving dishes in their hands.

“They like you too,” Magnus winked at Alec.

Dinner was filled with laughter, Magnus was relieved that Alec was as loosen up as he was every time at Friday’s dinners. He was laughing loudly about Ragnor’s jokes, he was drinking Raphael’s words about gastronomy, and he went into a deep conversation with Catarina about Alec’s businesses in Maysville. Magnus was on cloud nine by just having them all around.

“Thank you all again for emptying my loft so fast,” Magnus smiled at his friends, “and for arranging the papers, Ragnor,” Magnus added.

“He did nothing, Blondie did,” Raphael said, gesturing with his hand. Ragnor rolled his eyes.

“Oh, really?” Magnus asked, making a questioning look at Ragnor.

“Send her a flower bucket then,” Ragnor said. “It’s her job, anyway.”

“She is the best thing that ever happened to your life, Rag,” Magnus stated. “You should be the one thanking me.”

“I already knew when I hired Lydia that I was going to be listening to this my whole life.” Ragnor leaned back in his chair, rubbing his face, with his palms.

“Lydia?” Alec asked.

“Yes, Ragnor’s blonde paralegal. She is like a Duracell bunny, she can’t stop working and she is so good at it,” Catarina explained.

“And thank me again,” Magnus started, “because, I was the one who set up the big meeting with Ragnor,” Magnus continued, “I clearly remember that day. Catarina ditched our movie night...” Magnus made a face at her.

*

It was one of the rainy days, which ruined New York’s autumn charm. Magnus was on his way home and had decided to stop by for a coffee at one of his favorite coffee shops in the City.

Well, Magnus’ favorite coffee shop was the one where the barista didn’t make a face about his order. So, he walked in the so-called ‘Lovely Little Lounge’ according to the sign outside the building. Magnus loved the stave rhyme and the letter L. It was a cozy place in the middle of Brooklyn.

He was waiting for his order when he noticed a blonde, pony-tailed girl at a table in a corner. She was sobbing, there was a paper in her hand, and she was wiping her tears with a tissue in the other.

Magnus grabbed his order and walked to the table where the girl was sitting.

“Hello, darling! Would you mind if I join you?” Magnus asked softly, giving his sweetest smile when the girl looked at him.

“What are you drinking?” she asked between sobs. Magnus eyes widened, he knew already that he was going to be refused, but he took his chance.

“Vanilla Latte Macchiato with one and a half cinnamon syrup, double whipped cream and cinnamon topping,” Magnus said honestly and proudly.

The girl’s eyes widened and she gestured on the seat across from her, “I only know one other person who drinks that,” she said. Magnus saw that she started to calm down, “I was desperate to meet that person but things went south,” she explained.

“Well, let me introduce you to the second person who drinks this heavenly drink. I’m Magnus,” He showed his sweet smile again when the girl looked at him. There was something in her eyes, something strange but she returned the smile.

“I’m Lydia,” she said, stretching out her hand for a handshake.

“What do you do for a living, Lydia?” Magnus asked politely.

“I’m an unemployed paralegal,” she answered, her gaze wandered on Magnus without blinking.

“I’m a...” Magnus started but Lydia cut him off.

“Let me guess... You’re a fashion designer,” she said, smirking.

“Is it that obvious?” Magnus let out a laugh.

“Too obvious,” Lydia answered and Magnus liked that the girl was getting in a better mood.

“Okay, tell more about me what is so obvious!” Magnus gestured with his hand.

“You’re gonna be surprised but I know you better than you think,” Lydia winked at him.

“You just got me more excited,” Magnus placed his mug on the table and rubbed his palms together.

“Are you sure?” Lydia arched a brow.

“Go on, little unemployed paralegal. If you do this good, you might have a job tomorrow,” Magnus winked at her.

He had just met the girl; she was friendly, fun, with a heart-warming personality. He already knew he was going to set up a meeting with Ragnor but he was in for some fun.

“Okay...” Lydia started, closing her eyes, taking a deep breath before looking into Magnus’ eyes. “You’re not a New Yorker... you’re from a small town where everybody knows everybody. You came to New York to gain experience and to make your dreams come true but you stayed for some other reason,” Lydia paused, looking at Magnus who swallowed dry.

“Continue,” he only said.

“You have a family there, you love them the most and not a day passes when you don’t think about them,” Lydia said and Magnus nodded, wrapping his fingers around his mug, “you feel lonely in the City even though you have friends around you,” she added.

“I’m not lonely,” Magnus tried not to sound desperate.

“You keep chasing love even though you already know you’re never gonna find it again,” Lydia’s voice was soft but the words hit Magnus on his face.

“Why am I not gonna find it?” Magnus asked.

“You forgot the word ‘again’,” she said and Magnus rolled his eyes.

“Stop being so paralegalish,” Magnus gestured with his hand, “answer me. Why am I not gonna find it… again?”

“Because your love is still in that little town you come from. I have a feeling that you’ve never visited home since you moved here. You’re afraid to go back because your leaving was painful. And something happened and you didn’t dare face it,” Lydia stated and Magnus had a pain in his chest suddenly; “and, you know that I’m right as I talk about that love, you know that you’re never gonna find that kind of love again. The kind which makes you shiver, that makes you feel butterflies in your stomach, that makes your nerve endings tingle and your heart race,” Lydia said and Magnus couldn’t see her, his eyes were glassy and the girl in front of him was a blur.

He came to the girl’s table because she was sobbing and now Magnus wanted to cry with her over whatever reason was she had been crying before. He wasn’t expecting this.

Magnus said nothing, he only continued sipping from his coffee but he saw that Lydia was waiting for him.

“Well, I’m a New Yorker and I’m in a happy relationship with a woman whom I love, her name is Dorothea,” Magnus didn’t know why he’d lied. He hadn’t been with Dot for two weeks now. Maybe it was his natural way of protecting himself.

“Ouch…” Lydia said, “that hurt,” she lowered her head. “Dummy,” she added. Magnus barely heard her, she probably said to herself, he thought.

“I’m gonna set up a meeting with my lawyer friend,” Magnus said.

“Why?” she looked at Magnus confused.

“Because I like you. You’re a good girl, Lydia,” Magnus smiled at her.

 Lydia looked down at the paper she was holding in her hand, which seemed like a hand-written letter.

“Love?” Magnus asked, looking on the paper.

“Yes. My fiancé. He sent me this,” Lydia lifted the paper a little higher, “I haven’t seen him for years now. He is deployed right now,” she added and Magnus saw the tears in her eyes again.

“You’re waiting for him,” Magnus whispered.

“Patiently. What else can I do” she wiped her eyes.

“How are you?” Magnus asked. He wanted to know how the girl was feeling, if she was okay. He could see the sadness in her eyes.

“I miss him so much and there are moments when it feels like my heart is falling apart but I have an anchor,” she explained.

“An anchor?” Magnus raised an eyebrow.

“Well… I’ve met someone a couple years ago who told me something about waiting,” Lydia looked deep into Magnus’ eyes.

“What did that someone tell you?” Magnus asked immediately, “If I may know…” he added shyly.

“He said that couples that are meant to be, are the ones that go through everything that is meant to tear them apart, and come out even stronger,” Lydia’s eyes locked on Magnus, ”so, this only makes our love stronger even though it’s painful at the moment.”

Magnus’ heart was racing and he didn’t know why.

Magnus swallowed dry and cleared his throat. “It’s wise, advice,” he said.

“Yeah,” she agreed.

“I really would like to meet that person one day,” Magnus added and Lydia let out a soft laugh, shaking her head, looking down at the table.

“That certain somebody also told me that if two hearts are meant to be together, no matter how long it’ll take them, how far they’ll go, how tough it all seems…”

*

“…fate will bring them together to share their love with one another,” Alec finished Magnus’ sentence.

Magnus froze, looking at Alec with wide eyes and his heart was racing.

“Lydia Branwell, her fiancé, now her husband, is John,” Alec said, eyes locked on his plate.

“You know my paralegal?” Ragnor asked, placing his fork on the table. Magnus’ gaze was pacing back and forth between Ragnor, Catarina and Raphael.

“I’m that certain someone,” Alec said under his nose. “Excuse me,” Alec added, just before he stood up quickly, heading towards the bedroom.

“Go!” Catarina commanded in a low voice and narrowed her eyes at Magnus.

Magnus tossed the napkin on the table and followed Alec into the bedroom, finding him in the bathroom, sitting on the edge of the bathtub. He was leaning, his elbows on his knees, his face buried in his hands.

“Alexander…” Magnus whispered and kneeled in front of him. “I didn’t know.”

“Me neither,” Alec breathed, “I met her when I went after you. I was sitting on a sidewalk in front of a coffee shop. She was the only one who asked me if I was okay,” Alec said and Magnus’ heart was about to break. “I spent almost two weeks at her place, before coming back. We’ve been emailing each other almost every day since then. She is my best friend; she was the only person I could tell everything, I could pour my heart out to her without being judged. She’s always been there for me, no questions asked,” Alec said without moving, without looking at Magnus. He pulled Alec into a strong hug.

“It seems she already knew me when we met,” Magnus whispered into Alec’s shoulder.

“Yeah, but she never told me,” Alec replied.

“You are the country-boy,” Magnus said and Alec pulled away his head to look at him.

“She calls me country-boy,” Alec said and Magnus smiled, shaking his head.

*

Magnus placed the paper bag and the coffee on Lydia’s desk, grabbing a green apple from the fruit bowl on the top of it.

“Hey Magnus,” she greeted him and reached for the paper-bag.

“Low- carbohydrate cherry pie, as always, darling,” Magnus winked at her and went to the couch not far from her desk.

“I’m afraid Ragnor won’t be done with the meeting for another half hour,” Lydia announced. Magnus laid across on the couch, resting his head on the armrest, his legs on the other.

“No problem,” he took a bite from the apple.

“Why do I have the feeling that you only came earlier to hear about my friend?” Lydia gave Magnus a knowing look.

“I had nothing to do,” Magnus lied. Actually he still had to be in the office, checking the final fittings for the new collection.

“I found a new manicure salon a couple of blocks away…” she said and locked her eyes on her nails. “You definitely should try–” she said and Magnus sat up suddenly on the couch and cut her off.

“Tell me how country-boy’s date was on Saturday!” Magnus almost shouted and the blond woman bit back her lips, smiling.

“Disaster,” she simply stated.

“Oh God, I knew it! I knew it!” Magnus slapped his thighs.

“Yeah, I told him too, but he wanted to try again.” Lydia rolled her eyes.

“I had this feeling about his date. Blondes just don’t suit him. No offense, Lydia darling, you are beautiful and you suit John. But country-boy… He is different. I don’ know why but I only could imagine him with a raven haired woman,” Magnus said, eyes locked on the ceiling, trying to picture the man he was hearing about for years now, with his perfect date.

Lydia was laughing.

“What’s funny?” Magnus asked immediately.

“Nothing,” she placed her hand on her mouth. “He didn’t even kiss his date.”

“Poor Blondie,” Magnus said. “He’ll find the right one soon, I’m sure,” Magnus took another bite from his apple.

“Magnus, we both know he’s still in love with his lost love,” Lydia rolled her eyes and turned to her computer’s screen.

“Yeah, we sure do,” Magnus agreed and sighed. “I guess we’re gonna hear about more awkward dates then,” Magnus made a face.

“Actually, I’m not so sure,” Lydia turned and leaned on her elbows against the desk, holding her index finger up.

“Why?” Magnus leaned closer, like Lydia was telling a secret.

“There’s gonna be this event in the countryside and they are gonna meet again,” Lydia whispered.

“Noooo!” Magnus’ eyes widened from excitement.

“Yes,” Lydia said proudly, leaning back in her office chair, nodding.

Ragnor’s office door opened and Magnus stood up quickly, walking to Lydia’s desk.

“You definitely have to tell me everything of the next episode of country-boy’s series when I get back from my little sister’s wedding,” Magnus whispered to Lydia. The woman leaned closer.

“Believe me, I can’t wait to hear all about it…” Lydia said in a low voice and winked at Magnus.

“Can we go now?” Ragnor asked Magnus.

“Yeah,” He replied and smiled at Lydia.

They were almost out of the office room when the paralegal called after him. “Magnus!”

“Yeah?” he turned around.

“Have fun in Maysville!” she cried and Magnus only nodded.

Magnus turned around, heading out of the office building with his friend. He was frowning.

“Did you tell her?” Magnus asked from Ragnor.

“What?” Ragnor narrowed his eyes as they stepped into the elevator.

“Nothing,” Magnus shrugged and the elevator door closed. “I can’t believe Raphael can’t stop…” Magnus groaned. “We are going to a restaurant opening every month.”

*

“I didn’t know he was you,” Magnus said softly, thinking that Lydia never mentioned the town’s name or the gender of his date or of his love before. She was always so cryptic when she was telling him about country-boy’s life. But Magnus couldn’t stop hearing about him either, “did she tell you about me?” Magnus asked softly.

Alec shook his head. “Never. But I guess, you are the friend of the lawyer who keeps her late at work,” Alec said.

“I have never…” Magnus’ voice was higher and offended. “We definitely have to call her,” Magnus stood up but Alec grabbed him by his wrist.

“She knows everything, Magnus,” Alec said and pulled him onto his lap, “we email each other daily, remember?”

“She made fun of me, Alexander!” Magnus said offended.

“She likes you, believe me,” Alec said softly, cupping Magnus’ head. “She is happy for us,” Alec kissed Magnus, “I like how you were so obsessed with country-boy’s love life,” Alec teased Magnus.

“Alexander, don’t! I’m already so jealous cuz I already know too much about it,” Magnus wanted to pull away but Alec kept him on his lap. Magnus turned his head away.

“Why are you jealous?” Alec whispered.

“Seriously, Alexander, where were your high expectations?” Magnus frowned at him. “The blue-eyed brunette in acid-washed jeans? And you kissed him…” Magnus said angrily. Alec laughed and licked his lower lip and Magnus’ gaze went to his mouth. “I’m not wondering, he wasn’t a good kisser.” Magnus whispered and trailed his index finger from the each corner of Alec’s lower lip to the other. Alec parted his lips; Magnus felt the warm breath against his finger.

“I love it when you’re jealous,” Alec said in a low voice and the grip on Magnus’ hips grew tighter. Magnus leaned in.

“Yeah, I know. It turns you on,” Magnus breathed against Alec’s mouth.

“Not a bit,” Alec pulled Magnus closer.

“Really?” Magnus licked Alec’s lip and rolled his hip lightly against his lap. Alec moaned into Magnus’ mouth. “Sssshhhh,” Magnus giggled. “I closed the doors but still.”

“I want you, let’s go down to the old office,” Alec breathed heavily against Magnus’ lips, “we’ll be quick.”

“You said the same the last time in the Ranger and remember what happened,” Magnus said, standing up, offering his hand to Alec.

“Whose fault was that?” Alec accepted it and followed Magnus out of the bathroom, through the bedroom, towards the front door.

Magnus saw their guests’ questioning looks and rolled his eyes.

“I’m out of chocolate syrup for the dessert. We’re going down to the coffee shop to grab some,” Magnus said and opened the door.

“You don’t need chocolate syrup for the pumpkin pie,” Raphael said matter-of-factly.

“New recipe,” Alec said and let Magnus to drag him out of their home.

As they reached the door downstairs, Alec pinned Magnus against it. He started covering his neck with open mouth kisses. Magnus tilted his head, giving him more access.

“Alexander, we have to make it to the office,” Magnus moaned.

“Yeah,” Alec breathed against Magnus’ skin and reached for the handle. 

They were breathing heavily as they stepped out of the building, running to the coffee shop.

Alec tried to open the shop’s entrance but he couldn’t focus and always pushed the wrong key in the lock. Magnus bit his lower lips and smiled at Alec clumsiness. Then he froze when he heard something.

“Did you hear that?” Magnus asked immediately.

“I can only hear my own heartbeats,” Alec said pulling a key out of the lock.

“Shuuussshh,” Magnus held up his hand, walking across the sidewalk, towards Alec’s shiny black Ranger.

“What are you doing?” Alec asked and Magnus gestured for him to follow.

Magnus kneeled down on the concrete next to the tire, leaning down on his palms, looking under the car. 

“Magnus, what is it?” Alec asked confused, his legs next to him.

“Do you have your phone with you?” Magnus whispered. 

“Yeah, why?”

“Give it to me,” Magnus held his hand out.

“Why are we whispering?” Alec said in a low voice and placed his iPhone in Magnus’ hand and crouched next to him. Magnus turned the flashlight on, illuminating under the car.

“Oh, my poor baby,” Magnus said dramatically when he saw a little kitten under the car, next to the tire. “Can you see the cat?”

“Yeah,” Alec breathed and the next moment he was sliding under the car slowly, with feather-like moves, “come to the other side,” Alec whispered.

Magnus stood up and went around the car; he was on the street and kneeled down to look at Alec. He almost reached the animal.

“Careful,” Magnus whispered, watching Alec who held his hand out and the cat moved to him.

When the cat was in a closer distance he took the animal in his hands and reached out to Magnus from under the car. Magnus dropped the phone immediately and grabbed the little cat, holding it against his chest.

The cat started purring as soon as Magnus stroked its wet fur. He went back to the sidewalk and waited for Alec to get out from underneath the car.

“I’m in love with this baby, Alexander,” Magnus said as he lifted the little kitten to his cheek.

Alec stroked lightly the cat’s head between his ears. “I’ll lock the shop,” Alec stepped away, brushing away the dirt from his clothes, “you take your baby up there,” he smiled as he walked to the shop’s entrance door.

“I’ll wait, we’ll take this baby home together,” Magnus said, standing where he was. “First rule, no peeing on daddy’s designer boots,” Magnus spoke to the kitten in whispers. His baby simply meowed back. Magnus lifted it a bit, checking the kitten better, he – yes, he – wasn’t in a bad condition.

“It’s cold,” Alec said and rubbed his palms together, blowing on them. “I didn’t notice it when we got out,” he added and Magnus grinned at him.

“I have no idea why?” Magnus said and he felt Alec’s hand on his lower back as they walked to the door, “By the way, it’s a boy.”

Alec opened the door for them, “Oh, okay, so, do you have a name in mind?” Alec asked.

“Chairman Meow,” Magnus said with pride immediately and stepped into the building.

“That’s a great name. And should I be jealous from now on?” Alec asked sheepishly.

Magnus turned around and waited for Alec to close the door. “Never, Alexander, I can never love someone else more than I love you,” Magnus looked into his eyes, lifting his chin up, waiting for Alec to kiss him. “Country-boy perhaps,”

And Alec kissed him. “Love you.”

***

Next summer

[Ellie Goulding – Still Falling for You]

Magnus woke up in their bed, stretched out like a starfish hooked on a rock. He knew Alec had already left for work without opening his eyes. He couldn’t let himself own the whole surface when Alec was still in bed. Not that he was complaining about sleeping in a knot with Alec.

He blinked his eyes open and smiled. The summer sunrays reached the living room’s floor as he looked toward the opened bedroom door, blinding Magnus, who was still in the dark.

He slid out of bed and went to bathroom, then he got dressed up in casually elegant; apparently, such thing did exist after all. After making his hair and make-up, he went to the kitchen to collect his things from the island, and then went to the living room, took Chairman Meow in his free arm from the couch and walked to the front door.

He stopped at the opened door and turned around, “Church, come!” he said, but the cat didn’t move from the rug under the dining table.

Magnus rolled his eyes. “Why do you have to do this every morning?” he asked, even though he knew he wouldn’t get an answer. “Please?” he added but the cat didn’t show any willingness to leave the spot where he was lying.

“I’m gonna put your cat-nest by the windowsill. You know, the comfy bed I sew for you because I like you even though you don’t like me,” Magnus said.

The cat lifted his body, stretched his legs, and started walking slowly towards to the door. Magnus rolled his eyes and waited until the cat came out of the apartment to close the door behind them. “You want me to beg you every day, don’t you? You’re still jealous, aren’t you?” Magnus asked, putting Chairman on the floor and went downstairs, followed by the cats.

Magnus opened the door for them. They turned to the left automatically after they got out of the building, walking towards the coffee shop’s entrance. Magnus grabbed the handle and hit his forehead immediately against the door’s window when it didn’t open.

“Oouuch,” he groaned and placed his free hand on his forehead. His eyes widened as he saw the closed sign on the door.

It was Monday, and he wondered why the shop was closed. Then, he remembered that it had been closed last year for a day in summer. Last year it had been a Sunday.

Magnus frowned and walked to his studio. He went inside after opening its door and the cats followed him. He tossed his stuff on the worktable and went to place Church’s cat-nest by the windowpane. The cat made himself comfortable in it immediately. Meanwhile, Chairman laid down on one of the couches in the waiting area.

Magnus fished out of his iPhone from his pocket and dialled Alec’s number.

“Good Morning, my love! Did you sleep well?” Alec greeted him on a soft voice when he picked up the phone.

“Good morning, Alexander! Yeah, I did,” Magnus answered and moved his neck to the sides, lifting his shoulders, making circles. He could still feel the sore muscles all over his body from last week’s yoga sessions and last night’s bed exercise with Alec. He felt energetic though he still was coffee deprived. “Hum... I wanted to ask you something,” he said shyly.

“Sure, I’m listening,” Alec answered.

“How am I gonna drink coffee today?” he asked and heard Alec’s laughing on the other side.

“You have a kitchenette, so you can make your own and I left you pancakes there,” Alec explained and Magnus started to walk towards it as Alec spoke.

“Why is the shop closed every year on this day?” Magnus asked in a low voice. There was a silence for a while.

“You didn’t read my very last email,” Alec answered and Magnus frowned. He didn’t understand what would there been any connection between the new window-dressing in a bookstore and the fact that the coffee shop was closed.

“Of course I’ve read it,” Magnus said matter-of-factly, pulling out a fork from a drawer.

“I’ll tell you tonight, okay?” Alec said. Magnus sat at the table and started to eat.

“Okay,” he said with a full mouth. “Where are you?”

“At the computer shop, helping Max,” Alec answered.

Magnus smiled a little although Alec couldn’t see him. Ever since his graduation, Max and Alec seemed glued to each other. Alec’s old apartment had been turned into an enormous office for the brothers. Max was taking over some shares after and he had been learning about how to do business from his brother and both Alec and Magnus couldn’t be prouder of the young man. Alec had even been thinking about buying a car for his little brother.

Having Max by Alec’s side was a relief since Clary and Jace’s baby girl had been born and Izzy and Simon had started planning their wedding. Jace had found that ‘being a daddy’ was a great excuse to flood Alec with paperwork. Alec needed to hire a new accountant to help Simon with his work. Their wedding was going to be at the end of summer. The ceremony was going to take place on the riverside of the Ohio River, because it’s green, and the wedding rehearsal was going to be at Tony’s restaurant where their first date had been. Magnus had to admit Izzy was a cool bride, she felt in possession of the field and arranging the wedding went very well.

“Okay, then,” Magnus exhaled and took another bite from the pancakes into his mouth, “have a nice day, handsome,” he added.

“Love you, see you tonight,” Alec said and they hung up.

Magnus was staring out through the glass wall to his studio, thinking. He lifted to fork to his mouth but froze halfway with parted lips.

Alec hadn’t meant yesterday’s email. He meant his very last email.

Magnus dropped the fork on the table and rushed out of the studio, closing the door quickly. He took the stairs in twos as he was headed back up to the apartment.

He slammed the door open, and ran to the bedroom, taking his MacBook out. He sat on the bed and turned it on.

He opened his account and started scrolling down at his emails.

“I really should unsubscribe from these...” he cursed and groaned.

He’d been searching for a while when he found Alec’s name in his inbox and his unread email. The date was yesterday’s ten years ago and Magnus swallowed dry as he clicked on the email with his shaky finger. That had been the one of the emails he’d never dare open as it could have meant things were truly over.

His heart started racing in his chest and it was getting harder for him to breathe properly as he read the email message.

Magnus, my love,

It’s been months since my last email and this is going to be my very last one and I promise I’m not going to disturb you anymore. 

I just want to tell you one thing for the last time.

My love for you is more than love. From the day I met you, I’ve never wanted to spend another day without you. I never would have imagined that I could’ve such strong feelings for you. I never would’ve thought that I could have dreams of you or miss being by your side or get butterflies in my stomach by someone simply mentioning your name.

I fell in love with you because of the million things you never knew you were doing. You didn’t realize it but you taught me how to love, how to trust, how to believe in myself, how to accept, how to forgive and how to never give up even though you couldn’t do it yourself.

You are my other half, my partner in crime (not real crimes, of course), my best friend, and my soul mate. I love you with every drumbeat of my heart and my love for you continues to grow every single day even though we’ve been apart for almost a year now.

You motivate me to do better, to be more of me, to not to feel worried about the smallest things and to experience life to its fullest. It’s all because of you.

You are the finest, the loveliest, the sweetest, and the most beautiful person I’ve ever known.

I want to say thank you. Thank you for all the late night laughs and all the morning kisses. Thank you for holding my hand through four years and for proving that the perfect man did exist for me. Thank you for your love and friendship. And most of all thank you for the pleasure of loving you.

You are the best thing that ever happened in my life. I’m so grateful for having had you in it.

Sometimes, I just wish you were here so I could tell you how much I need you and how hard every day has been without you.

But I also know that without my memories of you and the love I feel for you I wouldn’t survive these hard times. You still give me strength even though you haven’t been here for ten months now. (Now as I’m writing this I only see your beautiful face with those shining eyes and that sweet smile of yours right in front of me.)

Tomorrow is the day you are suppose to come back home. When you are supposed to come back to me. And I know you’re not going to but, as I promised, I’m going to close the coffee shop on the day of your planned arrival (and I know you won’t remember I told you this because you were so excited about packing and traveling).

I don’t know if you’re ever going to read this email or if it’s just going to get lost somewhere between Maysville and New York. But I have to let you know that I was planning to tell you all these things and ask you to marry me tomorrow. I know I’m not going have the chance now but if you ever come back to me I promise you that I’m going to propose to you on that very day because there’s no else in this world I would want to spend my whole life with. 

And no matter what, I’m going to wait for you for as long as it takes, for as long as my heart beats.

Love you, 

Forever yours,

Alexander

Magnus shut the MacBook closed roughly; his heart was aching more and more with every heartbeat.

“I knew you wouldn’t wait ‘till I got home,” Magnus heard Alec’s voice from behind. He wiped his eyes and nose and turned around. Alec was leaning against the doorframe on his side, holding a little black box in his hand.

“Alexander...” Magnus only whispered, Alec licked his lips, lowered his eyes and shook his head lightly.

“Why can’t you just stick to the plan?” Alec asked softly, smiling sincerely at Magnus and then started walking towards him.